DJ QBERT to Launch SKRATCH UNIVERSITY in Early 2009

ArtistWorks, Inc has partnered with DJ Qbert of ThudRumble to create the Qbert Skratch University an online video learning site. The groundbreaking university is expected to launch in early 2009.

World renowned skratch innovator, DJ Qbert uses a series of progressive videos to teach all levels of Skratching techniques from basic to exotic as well as Beat Juggling.

This format of exchanging videos with a legendary DJ where the entire community learns is the first of its kind.

Turntablists around the world use simple and innovative video management technology created by ArtistWorks. Student members post videos on the University site and using the latest in Internet video technology, Qbert responds to student videos, offering his personal guidance and suggestions.

Students and fans appreciate the ability to access previously unavailable world-class experts in an easy and affordable manner. Unique to the ArtistWorks approach is its customized interactive video learning environment. Utilizing ArtistWorks proprietary technology platform (patent pending), students submit their own videos for evaluation, and are provided written and video responses directly from the artist. With this expert feedback and the opportunity to view the other student's artist/student exchanges, progress is unlimited.

DJ Qbert says "It's cool that Skratching has so many fans around the world and we can all be in one place now and learn from each other no matter where we live."

Qbert's entire method is going to be presented and available at all times, so students can learn at their own pace and move around the lessons if they prefer. Although the lessons are progressive and get more difficult, they will never go away. Qbert will also be posting some videos from the road, competitions etc. The students will have a personal area where they can post a few of their own videos of themselves Qbert will critique the student video submissions with a response video or a written text assessment and give them an assignment if need be. The introductory fee will be extremely affordable at $60 for 3 months.

For more information, please visit www.qbertskratchuniversity.com.

KALAE ALL DAY Needs Your HELP with Her Next Project

We all know that this business of music is a STRUGGLE. It takes talent, connections, persistence and DOLLARS to maintain. KALAE ALL DAY is one of the brightest new artists to emerge with a depth of talent and attitude to match. Kalae set up a page on KICKSTARTER.COM to request donations to help fund her next two music videos. Her debut album "AFROMATIKNEOHIPPIEROCK*SOLEMUZIK" is very dope. Kalae is working with Noisemaker Media to film and produce her next two videos. Since she is an independent, a helping hand of support for this very visual and creative performer is needed.

Check out the link for details at KICKSTARTER to see what your donation provides.

Here is Kalae's first video "O.G.LYRiKALBOOKBAGGER" ft. Homeboy Sandman



Here is the interview that she did for THEZROHOUR:

Video Music Box 25th Anniversary Concert

Many of you outside of the tri-state area (NY, NJ, CT) know of Ralph McDaniels and Video Music Box. In New York, "Uncle" Ralph is one of the most revered figures in hip hop. Video Music Box, originally hosted by Ralph and Lionel C. Martin ("The Vid Kid"), was a pioneering hip hop/R&B video show waaaay before Yo! MTV Raps. It was the only outlet that featured music videos from local and independent hip hop artists as well as those who could not get placement on the major video shows such as Friday Night Video (NBC), Hot Traxx (ABC) and MTV network. Ralph and Lionel established Classic Concepts, a video production company that produced some of the earliest videos for some of the biggest stars in hip hop and R&B from the mid 80's through the 90's. Lionel C. Martin was the Hype Williams of his time. The show is regarded dearly due to the classic moments of hip hop pioneers and sincere artist interviews. Uncle Ralph used to (and still does) bring the camera to the clubs and show you all the party goers in their sweat induced glory. We all looked forward to hearing the screaming shout outs and dissected the scenes to see if we recognized anyone in the crowd. Video Music Box was must see TV and the streets were quiet when it was on. I have some history with VMB also. I appeared in a PSA one summer with a crew called Fresh Productions. We did a song called "Stop Cracking It Up" (EDAYE on the beatbox) and it ran for several months in 1986. Everybody in my hood gave props was expecting us to get a record deal. Needless to say, I enjoyed the attention. What was more important to me was the idea that I had a chance to be a part of one of the most influential and inspiring outlets in hip hop...



This summer, July 18 2008, Central Park's Summerstage concert series presents a FREE 25th anniversary concert celebrating Video Music Box and Ralph McDaniels. You can expect a who's who of hip hop to appear on the bill. I will be there and will post pics and footage of this important event in hip hop history..

Check the Summerstage link HERE

Opening Reception Tomorrow! THE BOX THAT ROCKS: 30 Years of Video Music Box and the Rise of Hip Hop Music & Culture

THE BOX THAT ROCKS
30 Years of Video Music Box and the Rise of Hip Hop Music & Culture
Guest Curated by Dexter Wimberly
March 10 – May 28, 2012
Museum of ContemporaryAfrican Diasporan Art
80 Hanson Place Brooklyn, New York 11217
Opening Reception: Saturday, March 10 | 6pm – 9pm
 
Amy Andrieux * Malik Y. Cumbo * LaTasha N. Nevada Diggs * Delphine Fawundu * Bobbito Garcia * Tahir Hemphill * Jonathan Mannion * Tim Okamura * M. Tony Peralta * Fab 5 Freddy * Ali Santana * Jamel Shabazz * Daniel Amazu Wasser

THE BOX THAT ROCKS: 30 Years of Video Music Box and the Rise of Hip Hop Music & Culture is an exhibition of contemporary art that celebrates the global influence of Video Music Box, and the show’s historic contribution to urban music and culture. In 1983, Ralph McDaniels launched Video Music Box, a groundbreaking television program that ushered in the popularity and innovation of music videos. As the show’s creator and host, and the producer and/or director of over 400 music videos, Ralph McDaniels is a pioneer whose influence is still felt throughout the music industry. It is safe to say that hundreds of Hip Hop, R&B and Dancehall artists owe their street credibility, record sales, and a great deal of their commercial success to Video Music Box.

More Info HERE

Exclusive interview with Ralph McDaniels HERE

VIDEO: MTV's Sway Sits Down With Our Future President Barack Obama

• MTV
• Music Videos
• MTV Shows
• Entertainment News

I missed these pair of interviews that premiered last week. I have always felt that Barack Obama is of the hip hop generation due to his age and awareness. Even if he did not listen to hip hop (which he does), I know that the influence of the culture would not have missed him. Above Sway talks one on one with Obama and the below video features Sway's interview with both Barack Obama and Joe Biden. Barack speaks on hip hop, his running mate Joe Biden and his successful first debate with senator John McCain.

• MTV
• Music Videos
• MTV Shows
• Entertainment News

P.Miller Unveils Plans For New Cable Network

From Reuters and The Hollywood Reporter

Hip Hop entrepreneur P.Miller aka Percy Miller aka Master P is launching a family-friendly cable network, Better Black Television.

The network will provide "positive content for a black and brown culture," according to a company statement.

BBTV, set to launch in 2009, will be a general entertainment channel running a wide range of scripted, unscripted and news programming, including drama and comedy series, movies, animation, reality, politics, sports and entertainment news, children's educational and teen programming, as well as "responsible hip-hop music and videos."

BBTV advisory board members include Oscar winner Denzel Washington; Vault Load Films president Jim Finkl; NAACP executive director Vicangelo Bullock; NBA player Derek Anderson; cable industry veteran Prof. Sal Martino; hip-hop pioneer DJ Kool Herc; entrepreneur Olatokunbo Betiku; and real estate mogul Curtis Oakes.

BBTV chairman and CEO Miller said he's had the vision for BBTV for several years.

"I believe that there is a market in our community for a new diverse network that provides a new brand of superior programming that caters to all aspects of television, from reality to original programming," he said.

The new channel is taking on the black-oriented cable channel BET. Production on BBTV's programs has begun in California, New York, Louisiana and Florida.

The cable channel is in the process of purchasing local cable channel affiliates across the country.

BBTV's programming in the works:

* "Sunset and Vine": Video show hosted by Vyshonn Miller and Brittany Phillips that will showcase the top hip-hop and R&B acts as well as play classic videos.

* "One Shot Comedy Show": Comedy show hosted by Gary Johnson (a.k.a. G-Thing) featuring established and upcoming comedians.

* "Gee Gee the Giraffe": Children's educational show (will air Saturday morning on BBTV Kids).

* "Manage Your Money": Featuring financially successful people lending tips to promote financial literacy.

* "Close to the Starz": A behind-the-scenes show that takes the viewers up close and personal to their favorite celebrities.

* "Karma TV Show": Bilingual soap opera with an African-American and Latino cast.

* "What's Cooking TV Show": Talk show that covers wide aspects of entertainment and current events while cooking healthy, budget-conscious meals.

* "The Black List Movies": Film showcase featuring classic and contemporary movies, as well as original BBTV productions.

* "Hip-Hop Garage Show": Saturday show that will play new and upcoming music.

VIDEO: Eternia & Chesney Snow Rip It @ CUSHAPALOOZA

I am on a roll with the videos today..
Our peeps ETERNIA along with beatboxer CHESNEY SNOW give us a peek into a brief rehearsal that became a fly routine at the Cushapalooza festival in Bensalem, PA. on July 12th 2008. Get 'em girl!

VIDEO: KANYE WEST Performs New Material at Facebook Headquarters

??? Yeah I said the same thing when I saw this trio of videos originally posted at WILLIAMYAN.COM Kanye straight kills it accapella while standing on a table in a small room. He performs an unknown track, "Mama's Boyfriend", and "Chain Heavy". A great preview of what is sure to be a killer fourth album- "Good A** Job".

HIP HOP APPRECIATION WEEK 2007

I received this message from Minister Server at THE TEMPLE OF HIP HOP
announcing Hip Hop Appreciation Week which is an annual celebration of Hip Hop culture established by KRS One and The Temple of Hip Hop:

HIP HOP APPRECIATION WEEK 2007

Wow, it’s hard to believe it’s been Ten years since KRS-ONE and the Temple of Hiphop introduced the concept of HHAW to the Hip Hop community! Forever props to the “Teacha” for being the vessel to bring forward this divine idea from the Most High! Since 1997, HHAW has grown into to a yearly, worldwide celebration that keeps growing each year. During HHAW Hiphoppas from various walks of life, of all races, religions, class and creed, in cities, towns and villages from America to Australia, celebrate a week of Hiphop Kulture by having a variety of activities and events in their communities!
The Tenth Anniversary for Hip Hop Appreciation Week is May 13-20, 2007, the theme is “HONOR”! The goal of HHAW is to de-criminalize the images of our culture that are presented to the world by the mainstream media. HHAW is the week when Hiphoppas should amplify the work they’re doing in their community through Hiphop Kulture. Hiphoppas are encouraged to Honor Hiphop Kulture by making the Tenth Anniversary of HHAW the dopest, freshest, phattest, best celebrations ever, word!
Now is the time for Hiphoppas to get serious about the future of Hiphop Kulture! We need to get past the “personality” of our Hip Hop leaders and decide who we are as a Hiphop community, what we are doing and what we desire for our children’s children forever! As a unified international Hiphop Kulture, we truly have the ability to transform the world into what we desire it to be! HHAW is a great time to learn or re-affirm your appreciation, support and work for the development, growth and preservation of the international Hiphop Kulture through various activities and events in your community!
Here’s a few of “Minister Server’s Suggestions” on what would be dope to “Honor” during the 2007 Tenth Anniversary HHAW celebration:

1. It would be dope if during HHAW, Hiphoppas had events that honor the gifts and talents that the Higher Infinite Power Healing Our People, Hiphop, has given us and share those blessings with their community!
2. It would be dope if during HHAW, Hiphoppas worldwide used this time to really honor each other as Hiphop Kulture, a unified collective community of free, creative and productive people that are changing the world!
3. It would be dope if during HHAW, Hiphoppas worldwide acknowledge that May 16th is “Hiphop Independence Day” in honor of the day that Hiphop Kulture presented the Hiphop Declaration of Peace, to the United Nations in 2001!
4. It would be dope if during HHAW, Hiphoppas decided to honor the ancestors and pioneers that laid the foundation of our culture by having events to show people how Hip Hop culture evolved into the international culture that it is now!
5. It would be dope if during HHAW, Hiphoppas decided to honor people who are doing good work in our community with a special award for their service!
6. It would be dope if during HHAW, Hiphoppas decided to honor our youth by providing creative activities that allow them to express themselves through the elements of Hiphop Kulture!
7. It would be dope if during HHAW, BET, Vh1 and other media outlets decided to show videos and programs that de-criminalize the images of Hiphop Kulture!
8. It would be dope if during HHAW, more spiritual leaders, politicians, educators, parents, business and community members participate in some of the events during HHAW!
9. It would be dope if during HHAW, people gave honor to the elements of Hiphop Kulture by having workshops, classes and presentations about the origin and history of the elements of Hiphop Kulture!

Of course there are many more “Suggestions”, however, since Nine is the number of completion, I’ll stop right there for now! Have a great HHAW and remember, we are not doing hip-hop, we are Hiphop, word!


Forever Hiphop,
Minister Server -
Temple of Hiphop,
Universal Federation for the Preservation of Hip Hop Music and Culture,
HIPHOP Ministries, Inc.

VIDEO: THE ZRO HOUR: RETURN TO ZERO- Interview w/ The MISNOMER(S)

THE ZRO HOUR: RETURN TO ZERO- Interview w/ The MISNOMER(S) from EDAYE on Vimeo.

NYC hip-hop group, The MISNOMER(S) (Knewdles, Sos & beat boxer, Chesney Snow) drop in for an interview and performance of their song "Woo Hoo!". Recorded for the 5th anniversary release of THE ZRO HOUR. See more videos from the 5th anniversary mixshow, THE ZRO HOUR: RETURN TO ZERO, HERE.

2008 VH1 Hip Hop Honors Monday October 6th

This year's VH1 HIP HOP HONORS celebrates the contributions and the impact of Cypress Hill, Naughty By Nature, Too Short, De La Soul and Slick Rick. Once again hosted by actor/comedian Tracy Morgan, this year looks to be even bigger than the last. I will definitely be tuning in and will post my thoughts. Seeing Naughty By Nature perform at Ralph McDaniels' Video Music Box 25th Anniversary concert, I look forward to the stage being destroyed by one of the best groups in hip hop EVER. Check out the video below for rehearsal footage of Ghostface Killah and Biz Markie practicing their Slick Rick tribute:

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Check HERE for more rehearsal footage

VIDEO: Hip Hop Reps For Oscar Grant III In Oakland

Thanks to DAVEYD.COM:

Davey D drops 3 videos from a peaceful rally held last Wednesday at the Fruitvale BART station in Oakland. From hosts Christina Gomez and Dereca Blackman of the Bay Area Local Organizing Committee to Oakland rapper Jahi and Mister FAB, Jasiri X and Oakland rap artists Ner City. Hip Hop came out deep to stand for peace and social justice-

ALBUM REVIEW: LEFTY aka THE L.E.F.T.- "Kill The Messenger"

Bash Bros (Piseas and Lefty aka The L.E.F.T.) have long been a fixture in the Bay Area hip hop scene and put in work as one of the most consistent and persistent artists around. These guys drop a staggering amount of work and this newest solo project by The L.E.F.T. maybe one of the strongest releases yet.

"Kill The Messenger" has become one of my favorite releases from the last several months. This 10 track album caught me off guard due to the original production sound which fits Lefty's flow and lyrics perfectly. Lefty spits with a mischievous, yet dark flow. Imagine your subconscious sitting on your shoulder digging in your ear prodding you to act out- that's the effect of The L.E.F.T. "Kill The Messenger" combines life lessons with anarchist and revolutionary themes that illustrate the often deceptive and conflicting nature of the messages we receive.

Enough cannot be said about the production. Produced solely by Lorn, with "Never Knew Me" produced by Dextah, the album takes you through these soundscapes of ethereal synths, cinematic strings and percussive attacks. Standout tracks include "Left Field" ft. DJ Icewater, "Eye Wide Open", "Fix It For You" ft. Roch, "Turn On The Wheels", "Never Knew Me" and "Devil's Diary".

DOWNLOAD HERE

Check out more of The L.E.F.T.'s music on his bandcamp page.

Below are the videos for "Turn On The Wheels" and "American Zombie Voodoo Child":

MOVIES: Behind The Scenes of The Biggie Biopic NOTORIOUS

I am loving the look of this film and the production should shape up to be one of the most authentic hip hop films to date. Below are links to a trio of videos from the production diary/blog of producer Wayne Barrow (one of B.I.G.'s former managers). Stay tuned to NOTORIOUSBLOG.NET for more updates..

NOTORIOUS Video Diary #1: Cast & Crew Intros

NOTORIOUS Video Diary #2: Brooklyn

NOTORIOUS Video Diary #3: Production Design

VIDEO: ETERNIA & MoSS: AT LAST- Road To Release Episodes #1-2

One of the hip hop's most skillful female emcees (or male for that matter), ETERNIA, drops a new series of videos documenting the road to release of her upcoming project with producer MoSS entitled "AT LAST". My jowls are salivating....



You can catch Eternia live onstage in NYC, June 26th, at the LYRICIST LOUNGE hosted by Jeru The Damaja. Eternia will be appearing beatboxer CHESNEY SNOW, DJ BOO and COLIN DEAN on bass.

LYRICIST LOUNGE
Hosted by Jeru The Damaja

Performances by:
Duo Live
A-Alikes
Eternia
A.D.M (Architects & Demolition Men)
Soul Purpose
Nemiss

@ 92YTRIBECA
200 Hudson (off Canal St. / near the Holland Tunnel)
212.601.1000

Doors 9pm / Show 10:30pm

MOVIES: Behind The Scenes of The Biggie Biopic NOTORIOUS- CASTING VIDEO

Thje Notorious B.I.G. bio pic, NOTORIOUS is feeling so right..so on point. I dropped an earlier post with links to videos from the blog of the film's producer, Wayne Barrow -NOTORIOUSBLOG.NET. In the video below they reveal the casting process and how Jamal Woolard (pictured above) won the role of Christopher Wallace.

NEW Issue #4 Of PRODUCER'S EDGE MAGAZINE Available Now

Issue #4 of the FREE online digital edition of PRODUCER'S EDGE MAGAZINE looks like one of the best yet. The legendary TEDDY RILEY graces the cover and has an in depth interview inside about his process and favorite gear. There are profiles of producer/engineer KEN LEWIS, L-ROC and the SOUL DIGGAZ. The Drum Works feature (part II) kicks off with sound design, synthesis, sequencers and samples. New products arrive with the LinPug RMV drum module, Sugar-Bytes Consequence, Artillery II and Effectrix provide a triple threat. Find your super D-esser with Sonnox Oxford, tracks for your composer's entry with Adobe Soundbooth CS4 and attack your room with IK Multimedia ARC. As with each issue, there are linked videos and downloadable content throughout.

PRODUCER'S EDGE MAGAZINE

MUSIC TECH: Reminiscing on the SP-1200

Last week, The Village Voice published an article focusing on the history and importance of EMU systems' SP1200 sampling drum machine in shaping the sound of Hip Hop music. There is roundtable discussion with producers Hank Shocklee, Lord Finesse, Ski, and Pete Rock speaking on their love and discovery of this seminal drum machine. The rough , aggressive textures and limited sample time of the SP1200 made producers of that era create techniques and work-arounds that later became the trademark sound of gritty boom bap. Thanks to MUSIC THING for the link. Check the article HERE

Check these youtube videos for instruction and demos of producers using this legendary machines-

VIDEO: THE THRONE- "Otis"

Get More: JAY Z and Kanye West, Music, More Music Videos

Hov and Yeezy's new group THE THRONE drops the first video, "Otis", from the new album "Watch The Throne". Love this track and these dudes look like they're having hella fun!

VIDEO: Shaun Boothe Presents A 12 Part Bio Series Beginning With PT. 1: The Unauthorized Biography Of James Brown

Unauthorized Biography Series Trailer


Rapper SHAUN BOOTHE has launched an ambitious 12 part unauthorized video bio series. Picking up where Nas left off with the Unauthorized Biography of Rakim, this is part 1 of The Bio Series which consists of 12 video bios of 12 icons in 12 months. The first video in the series, "The Unauthorized Biography Of James Brown", dropped and you can check it out below. THE ZRO HOUR will post each one over the next 12 months. We hope it inspires you to rediscover and research our musical heroes. Shaun Boothe definitely puts it down. Shaun has had a lot of success in the past with his music, especially his videos. He was awarded a singles deal from Def Jam, won a $30,000 video contest put on Universal and Yahoo.com and has won a different video contest for $25,000 from MuchMusic. Stay tuned for more from this creative talent.

The Unauthorized Biography Of James Brown