HIP HOP HONORS 2007: Some Thoughts

I just finished watching the Hip-Hop Honors for 2007 and of course I have a few things to say. First of all, I would like to say that creators, producers, etc... from VH1 are doing a great job of keeping Hip-Hop & Soul Music alive with the creation of VH1 Soul. In a way, it gives you some of the history of where the music of today comes from. With that said, I have to say that when they honored Whodini, that was my favorite part of the show. Yes, I did love them back when they were out (Grandmaster D was my fav) and would have to say they are high up on my favorite artist list but they not only took my back with their music, but with some of the dance moves as well. They were able to reach not only the young but the old as well. I remember my grandmother saying, "I like the one wearing the wide brim hat but why did he have to wear those little white shorts?". She was speaking of Ecstasy of course.

It was wonderful that they included New Jack Swing too. Teddy showed his age though during his performance. It's was cool though. I would have liked to have seen Aaron Hall there with him. Also I believe that T-Pain needs to lay low for a while. Keith Sweat may be looking for him because he slaughtered his song. Oh yeah, Kool Moe Dee showed us that he isn't starving and that's all I have to say about that. I believe that Doug E Fresh & The Get Fresh Crew including Slick Rick (or even Slick Rick alone) should be one of the new group of honorees. I think the movie "New Jack City" should be a movie that is honored as well. They did "Boyz In Da Hood" so there should be no real issue. Queen Latifah should have her time to shine as well but it wouldn't surprise me at all if they pick Roxanne Shante instead. Overall, I enjoyed the program. The music took me back to times I had forgotten about. The fun that was had during the summer breaks from school, times I shared with family and friends, and just being a young teenager worrying about passing a test or getting my homework in on time.

-DREA

THE ZRO HOUR 09.26.07

THE ZRO HOUR returns with one of our best shows featuring two great emcees- K BANGER and GODHEAD THE GENERAL. We featured K Banger's music on THE ZRO HOUR: Indie Showcase previously and reported on his live performance at Underground EXP's Golden tribute shows. Godhead The General and I connected on MYSPACE while I was digging for new music. The interviews were great as each emcee had a chance to reveal their passionate stance within Hip Hop and spit for us live!

ALEXIE F., K BANGER & EDAYE


EDAYE, GODHEAD THE GENERAL & ALEXIE F.


We have some new joints from COMMON, HEZEKIAH feat. BILAL, CYMARSHALL LAW, KNOBODY, and CoMpArE. We have a couple of rare tracks from YOUNG ZEE and KOOL KEITH in the mix also. Get ya burn, drink or natural high on and enjoy the show..

THE ZRO HOUR 09.26.07 (86MB)

PLAYLIST

UNDERGROUND- KRS One
SOUTHSIDE- Common feat. Kanye West
LOOKING UP- Hezekiah feat. Bilal
WHAT U THINK- Knobody
ADDICTION- Cymarshall Law
ALL I NEED- K Banger
UPROCK (live)-K Banger
ROGUE- PhantomShino
STEADY RUMBLING- CoMpArE
HOW THE F--- YOU GET A DEAL?- Kool Keith feat. Godfather Don
B.R.O.N.X.- Godhead The General
GODHEAD FREESTYLE- God Head The General
STAY GOLD- Young Zee feat. Lauryn Hill

For The Love Of Teddy..Riley That Is...

I would like to take a moment and introduce a new contributor to THE ZRO HOUR, ANDREA. Andrea has a passion for R&B music and she has a wealth of knowledge about some of the greatest R&B acts of the hip hop generation (late 70's-present). From time to time, Andrea will examine these greats, their music and many others that have been overlooked or forgotten about. Just in time for the 2007 VH1 Hip Hop Honors, Andrea examines the career and journey of the creator of "New Jack Swing", TEDDY RILEY. Check out our Teddy Riley Tribute from 2004 HERE. If you would like to read more on the history of New Jack Swing, check this SITE. Take it away Drea...


I was going to use this opportunity to talk about the Pied Piper of R&B, R.Kelly but this time I chose another musical genius to talk about. T.R. himself, Mr. Teddy Riley. Teddy had the 90's on lock-down for sure. Everyone who was anyone worked with him. His beats were crazy and he produced numerous hits. New Jack Swing was the label that was put on his sound. It was definitely different from anything you heard. I have the utmost respect for this man as far as his talent as a producer and musician goes. As a singer.... no comment. I will say he can talk a song. I felt more proud due to the fact that this brother was not only from Harlem (just as I am), but the  projects he lived in at the time was neighboring to mine (Holla). I do have a tiny, slight disagreement with him though. You will see why after I give you some of his background. In 1988, Teddy Riley formed a group called Guy. When the video for "Groove Me" (the first single) was released, we were introduced to three young men. T.R. and brothers Aaron (lead singer) and Damion Hall but when you buy the CD (or cassette tape.... I'm telling my age now), you see Teddy, Aaron, and this other dude whose name is Timmy Gatling. If you were to read the liner notes, you see Damion Hall's name and no mention of Timmy. He released a solo album in 1989 but the only time I heard him sing was on "You Can Call Me Crazy" & "My Business" off the debut album. I sort of remember a video but then again.... Then you have the 1990 release of "The Future". Teddy really showed his skills on this CD. He had issues with the management he was working with previously but in the end, they were able to resolve them. Little did we know that "The Future" was going to be the end of Guy. ""Let's Stay Together" is a song on that album that Teddy later stated in an interview was a subliminal plea for the group not to split. Later on, in 1994 we were introduced to Blackstreet. Again, Teddy did the damn thing producing a string of more hits with his new group. "We want to be the next Temptations",  I've heard him say on many occasions. Ended up being the truth to a point. That group changed members more than the average person change their underwear.... ok... I'm exaggerating but you get the point. In the meantime, Aaron Hall released three solo albums. "The Truth" which was released in 1993 is the only one worth mentioning in my opinion. Through research, I found out he released a third one in 2005 which I will be checking out but the second release was a waste for me. Damion Hall released "Straight To The Point" in 1994. I personally enjoyed this CD. My family teased me by saying that I would be the only one at his concert. I did buy it because he was my favorite member of the group but I really think the public should have given it a chance. He released the single "Satisfy You" featuring Chante Moore from that CD.

In 2000, Guy fans were treated with not only a reunion but a new release simply titled "Guy III". I thought it was a good album but it was short lived. Teddy found himself going back to Blackstreet in 2003. In 1999, the world lost a man who was an idol of and a huge influence on Teddy. This man had everyone interested in "Computer Love". I am speaking of course about the late Roger Troutman. I remember watching a tribute show to Mr Troutman and saw Teddy speaking about how much he admired him and wanted to work with him. He said when Blackstreet would do a show, he would have an extra set -up just in case he wanted to get on stage with him. This is true. I remember seeing Blackstreet when my boys New Edition did their "Home Again" tour and I saw the extra keyboard but I thought it may have been for back up. Anyway, if I'm wrong then I'll be the first to admit it but I feel like this- Why didn't he just call whoever he needed to call to get to work with this man? Why would Teddy think that his mentor would seek him out? Keith Sweat worked with him on is 1994 release "Get Up On It". The song is called "Put Your Lovin Through The Test"  which is a slow song and it starts off with Roger in his computer voice saying, "Let me go down on you, Baby". Oh Lawd, have mercy on my soul.  He also worked with Johnny Gill on his 1996 release "Let's Get The Mood Right". The single "Girl It's Your Body" deserves an Oh Lawd, have mercy on my soul too. Of course these are two of many who has worked with the late Mr. Troutman. What's Teddy's excuse? I feel that Teddy had a dream and was blessed to be able to follow through with most of it. Somewhere along the line though, ego may have gotten in the way. Not saying that it was all his fault, but he had two groups that didn't last and lost the chance to work with the one man who inspired him to pick up a keyboard (with a long plastic tube) to create a sound that millions love and later copied. Though I'm on the outside looking in, one plus one equals two. Teddy Riley made music that is loved by many and is timeless but he didn't achieve his goal of having a successful group that was long lasting. Again, only my opinion.

VIDEO: Termanology- "SO AMAZING"

"Lyrically I'm the new AZ, cause if I really wanted to I could keep up with NAS..."

So says Termanology in this new track/video produced by DJ Premier. Can Term keep up with Nas lyrically? From the joints that I have heard in the past, quite possible. For all you gearheads, peep Premo on the M-Audio Oxygen keyboard and Presonus Faderport control surfaces. Where is the MPC? Could Premo be rockin' Reason??? Check the video here-

COLLECTIBLES: Futura's All City Style Break Train

Shout out to Andy @ TOYSREVIL for this post-

"..making it's debut during the recent SDCC @ Bigshot Toywork's display arena; the Classic Burner, Volume 1 "The Break Train" = is a collaboration between Bigshot Toyworks, Toytokyo, Maharishi and Futura Laboratories ... and now Futura's All City Style Break Train is available for pre-order at ToyTokyo (@ US$74.99-per); for an October-drop..measuring 20"-ers long X 4"-ers high, The Break Train is limited to 500pcs worldwide (with only 250 available in the US)"

READ ORIGINAL POST HERE

2007 VH1 HIP HOP HONORS Lineup and Tour

It's that time of the year once again for one of the best and most controversial Hip Hop shows on cable- VH1 Hip Hop Honors. This year's lineup includes an almost perfect selection of honorees and one that makes you scratch your head in confusion. The honorees for 2007 include Snoop Dogg, Whodini, A Tribe Called Quest, Teddy Riley & Andre Harrell (for the creation of New Jack Swing- check our Teddy Riley Tribute and Snoop Dogg Tribute from 2004). the film WILD STYLE's 25th anniversary and Missy Elliott. That's right I said Missy Elliott. Missy over Queen Latifah? Maybe Latifah could not make it. In a way I understand. Missy has made a powerful impact in the Hip Hop and R&B genres and her career has had more milestones and longevity than many other female Hip Hop artists. Still, it should be a great show. No other network has committed to exposing the pioneers and the most influential artists involved in shaping Hip Hop. I give VH1 props for that. VH1 Hip Hop Honors will be broadcast on October 8th at 10pm.

This year also sees the first Hip Hop Honors Tour. The Roots headline with special guests including Big Daddy Kane & MC Lyte. Check the listings for a city near you. Tickets for the October 5th, New York City show can be purchased HERE.

BOOK REVIEW: Brian Coleman's Check The Technique

BRIAN COLEMAN & EDAYE at the CHECK THE TECHNIQUE book release party


Are you like me? Do you ever find yourself wishing you were a fly on the wall during the recording and creation of some of the most impactful albums in all of Hip Hop? Just imagine seeing Marley Marl recording the Juice Crew's early classics such as Biz markie's "Make The Music", "The Symphony", Big Daddy Kane's "Raw" and "Set It Off". Imagine being in the same high school as Q Tip, The Jungle Brothers and Brother J from the X-Clan before they went on to make history. Throw in a few scenes of the formative struggles and you have the foundation for Brian Coleman's excellent book CHECK THE TECHNIQUE: LINER NOTES FOR HIP HOP JUNKIES. CHECK THE TECHNIQUE is actually an expanded edition of Brian's first book RAKIM TOLD ME. Some albums profiled in the first book were left out but there are many others that have been included in this version. Check The Technique is a collection of interviews of the artists and producers involved with creating their defining work. These are albums that have influenced an entire generation of current Hip Hop artists. If you are a true Hip Hop head, the book is hard to put down due to the amount of behind the scenes info. Many stories of the struggles, studio techniques and ambiance of the era (late 80's- early 90's) struck me intimately. When DMC speaks of how he and Run premiered the entire RAISING HELL album to a mouth watering Apollo theater crowd, I remembered being there that night. I lost my mind when they did the intro to PETER PIPER 3 times in a row before dropping the whole song. When Brother J of X-Clan speaks on beloved Hip Hop clubs of his era and running with Q Tip and The Jungle Brothers in Murray Bergtraum H.S., it took me back to my days in high school during that time. The creative energy in NYC was bananas then. Gearheads and MPC/SP1200 users can get the inside on which gear their favorite producer used to make that classic. The one thing that sticks out within all the interviews is a collective feeling of having fun while determined to express that calling from Hip Hop. It is an awakening when you truly feel the essence of Hip Hop culture as it compels you to get in where you fit in..

Pick up the book and make it required reading for Hip Hop heads old and new.

THE ZRO HOUR Roadtrip: Alexie's Adventure in MIA

During the week of July 4th, THE ZRO HOUR's own Alexie F. slid down to Miami to shake off some NYC stress and to connect with two great artists- La Originale Chica Del Reggae, SANDY, LA LOBA and Latin rapper MEXICANO 777. Sandy, La Loba is a pioneer of Latin Reggae/Reggaeton hailing from Columbia. La Loba got her start with Panamanian reggae legend El General. Alexie gets the goods on her journey thru reggae music as she braces for a major comeback. Mexicano 777 is a pioneer in Latin Hip Hop who spits pure venom with his spanish laced flow. He reveals his love for the music and his approach to his artistry. Alexie is granted this rare opportunity to interview both in the privacy of their homes. As a side note, Alexie conducted these interviews with the aid of his cell phone(!). La Loba will be co-hosting our upcoming show due 8/25 so stay tuned to the site for that. In the meantime, check out the interviews here:



ALEXIE F. w/SANDY, LA LOBA PT.1
ALEXIE F. w/SANDY, LA LOBA PT.2



ALEXIE F. w/MEXICANO 777 PT.1
ALEXIE F. w/MEXICANO 777 PT.2

RAWKUS 50 2007 Showcase this Saturday

This Saturday 08.18.07, SOUTHPAW hosts the first Rawkus 50 Showcase with a lineup of 8 artists featured. Hosted by Greg Nice of Nice & Smooth, the showcase features Doujah Raze, Mr. Metaphor, CyMarshall Law, Red Clay, Scavone, Wildabeast, Silent Knight and with a special birthday performance from Bekay. As finale, a power cypher is planned. This is one not to be missed. Come out and see the next movement live and direct!

Senseless Violence Takes the Lives of 3 in Newark, N.J.

Though unrelated to the music scene, this has grabbed my attention and fury these past few days. This past Saturday, August 4th, 4 young African-American adults were shot execution style with 3 of them succumbing to their wounds. Two men, two women. They were all due to attend Delaware State University this fall. One of the young ladies tried to enroll for two years before finally being accepted. Dashon Harvey (20 yrs. old-pictured at top), Iofemi Hightower (20 yrs. old), Terrance Aeriel (18 yrs. old-pictured below with Iofemi) and Terrance's sister Natasha Aeriel (19 yrs. old) were told to kneel and shot in a school playground during an apparent robbery attempt. Natasha is the only surviving victim and has been able to give details to the authorities about the incident. We hear about this senseless violence repeatedly and it most often occurs within communities of people of color. Newark, N.J. is a predominately African-American community (with a history of blacks in postions of Mayor and Police chief) that has seen a continued rise in homicides over several years. Between the gang clashes, heroin trade and car thefts, Newark's residents have had to deal with a war on their quality of life. I am disgusted by the frequent murders, shootings and overall victimization of people within these communities. I was raised in public housing and I still live in the hood. I see some of these same knuckleheads on the street everyday that could potentially take my life/my neighbor's life/my relative's life. Things pop off when in the wrong place at the wrong time, Things can pop off when simply walking to the bodega for some milk. I don't live in fear but I always wonder when are we going to truly get tired of all of this? Due to the economic conditions of the residents and the lack of available employment in some cases, many become trapped in the way of the hustle or frustrated from the lack of economic growth. It is definitely not an excuse, but it is understood. Although these challenges remain present after many generations, I still question why do we allow this element to fester within our communities? We can't blame the government for everything. Urban residents have to demand better law enforcement from the authorities and simultaneously make the hood aware that "We ain't having this shit over here".
I understand the fear of "snitching" and keeping silent about any knowledge of such heinous crimes. The residents are not protected from retaliation and often you have family members and/or friends who maybe involved in some type of criminal activity. Collectively we cannot condone any of this nonsense and there has to be a greater effort on the part of parents and the community at large to enact change. Within lower income and poor white communities, there is not this level of gun violence and victimization of each other. Newark is similar to Mount Vernon, New York in the way that there is a historically black populace filled with homeowners and suburban details. Meanwhile both are at odds with the criminal element within.

To all the youth, please take a moment to recognize your strength and potential for positive growth. Curb the addiction for instant gratification and fast money. Educate yourself through schools, churches, and libraries. Avoid prison. Control your anger. See the worth of another's life. We are a reflection of each other and what happens to one random victim can happen to one of your relatives. Generations that came before you have suffered through worse. Blood has been spilled to ensure that you can have certain rights, opportunities and economic access to the system. Yes, the system is f--ked up at times but the opportunity to make it work in your favor exists.

To all the adults, please take some time to become involved in young people's lives. Educate them from home to supplement the schools. Turn off the TV and talk to your family. Stop being selfish with your time. Stay aware of your childrens interests and friendships. Stop thinking its cute to dress your child as a thug. You can help build a child's character and confidence by teaching them how to walk amongst the world of the street and the boardroom. Go to PTA meetings. I know it can be difficult juggling work and feeding the kids, but you have to put an effort in place to enact change in the coming generation.

Hey Spike, I am still shouting WAKE. UP!!!!!!

FREE CONCERT! KRS ONE @ Prospect Park 08.03.07

Bought to you by Lyricist Lounge and Brooklyn Bodega:

The Lyricist Lounge fam presents KRS ONE free at Prospect Park!!!

Featuring special performances from Lady Bug Mecca, Turntable Anihilists,
Beat Boxer Ent. and Blitz The Ambassador

FREE!!
Prospect Park Bandshell - 9th Street and Prospect Park West - BKNY
7:30pm sharp.

www.celebratebrooklyn.com

THEN....JOIN US FOR THE OFFICIAL AFTERPARTY!

AFTER THE SHOW:
Friday, August 3, 2007

Music By: The Legendary Marly Marl

Also music by: DJ Stimulus

@ Southpaw (Park Slope, BK)
125 5 Ave (bet. Sterlin & St.Johns)

doors @ 11pm (right after the show) - $5

NEW RELEASE: Keith Murray RAP-MURR-PHOBIA (Fear of Real Hip Hop)

Yesterday, KEITH MURRAY, one of Hip Hop's sickest lyricists dropped his newest CD in 4 years- RAP-MURR-PHOBIA (Fear Of Real Hip Hop). Keith is a beast on the mic with intense, vocabulary laden rhymes. He sounds as strong as his first album, "THE MOST BEAUTIFULLEST". This is his 6th release as he once again teams up with Eric Sermon (of EPMD) to create potent music laced with multi-syllabic mayhem. Check this freestyle from BET's Rap City, short featurette and new video "Nobody Does it Better" featuring Tyrese on the hook...

TRAILER: DJ Scratch "So What Cha Sayin'" Scratchumentary

One of Hip Hop's greatest DJs and producers has produced a "scratchumentary" on his life called SO WHAT CHA SAYIN'. Check the trailer:

Wise Intelligent's "The Talented Timothy Taylor" Album Release Party

This Thursday 7/26, come thru BKNY to celebrate and support the release of Wise Intelligent's latest CD. This promises to be a great night with performances by Scienz of Life and K Banger! If you haven't seen these groups in the flesh, whatchu waitin' for???!!

VIDEO: K Banger feat. Triplebeam- "NATURAL HIGH"