Buttah Niia

IG- @official_buttah

Buttah Niia is a rapper born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Brownsville… and she sounds like it! Between her distinctive voice, hard-hitting NY flow, and soulful samples, Niia could be the female rapper we’ve been waiting for. She’s performed at NY’s famous SOBs twice, at “Faces in the Crowd” and the “Major Stage” show. Her single “Gotta” was also featured on the Hot 97 Take It to The Street Vol. 2 mixtape. Her latest project Set it Off: Stony Edition is the follow up to her debut mixtape, Set it Off: Frankie Story. The project features, “Eastside Girl,” a bar-filled female anthem for ladies that live on the right side of the map. Also off the project, the track “Timeline” gives a more introspective look at her story over a soulful piano beat.’

Buttah’s timeless bars and classic feel are a refreshing departure from the current sound, and continues to captivate listeners. Definitely excited to see what’s coming from Buttah Niia and her buttah smooth flow. Make sure you grab her new project, Set it Off: Stony Edition to hear her set it off.

Cedric Brazle  

IG – @cedricbrazle

Cedric Brazle (pronounced Brazil) is a Miami-based singer-songwriter using music to express his life, thoughts, and past experiences. Super strong vocals, a classic R&B feel, and modern 808 production gives Cedric an interesting, “young Usher-in-2020” vibe. His single “Body Heat” is a sultry uptempo vibe narrating a night of ignoring exes, hitting clubs, and finding the company of someone new. With three strong introductory singles out, Cedric is gearing up to release his first project. Be on the lookout for a Cedric Brazle EP this summer – it’s been a while since you’ve heard an R&B record like this!

C-4

IG – @theofficialc4

Carl Taylor, professionally known as C-4, is an exciting new artist out of Jersey. A natural entertainer and gifted athlete, C-4 was born for the spotlight. In February of this year, C-4 came out of the gate hot with his first official single, “Takeoff.” “Takeoff” is a fun, upbeat anthem announcing his arrival on the scene – and listeners can’t help but sing along. He follows it up with high quality, Donjai-directed visuals and a stream of well-received, catchy singles including “Birdbox” and “I Might.” Coming up, C has a collab dropping with the next-hot-thing out of Queensbridge, artist Rover, followed by his debut project. Stay tuned for details. One thing’s for sure, you don’t want to miss what’s coming next from C-4 and the Its So Simple Entertainment camp.

Astro Kyi 

IG – @muvaastronaut

Astro Kyi is a rapper and songwriter from PG County, Maryland. Her unforgettable flow is as aggressive as it is smooth and melodic. A true girl’s girl, Kyi has no trouble mixing classy and savage – with the look to match! Heavily influenced by 90’s hip hop, Kyi is bringing golden era bars with a modern, feminine feel. Her latest single “Pint Size” is a hard-hitting, bassy record – and a reminder that she is not to be played with. She may come in a small package, but these bars and flow switches definitely do not. Be on the lookout for new singles dropping monthly, as well as new visuals from your favorite astronaut.

Alondra Marie 

IG – @alondramariemusic

Originally from Puerto Rico and later Texas, Alondra Marie is a talented and soulful singer. Not only is she a beautiful and talented artist, she’s been an active duty service member since 2014. Alondra is currently finishing her last few months stationed in Japan – and we’re all thankful for her service! Amazingly, in 2019 during her deployment, she managed to drop a beautifully crafted 4-track R&B Ep titled Fruit. A departure from earlier work and in stark contrast with her dayjob, Fruit highlights her softer, sensual side. Alondra brings to the table sultry vocals, crisp production, and soulful vibes that feel both familiar and refreshing. Later this year, you can expect to see her follow up EP, fully written and produced by Alonda Marie herself.

Dyson Alexander  

IG – @dysonalexander

From Woodbridge, VA, artist Dyson Alexander is kicking it up in 2020. With a steady stream of singles, Dyson is giving listeners their daily dose of soulful, autotune flow. After dropping the double single, Omerta, in December, he follows it up with “Purple Rayne” and Shining, featuring the track “Confused.” Recently, one of Dyson’s tracks was featured in the Showtime Documentary “Basketball County: In the Water.” Released on May 15, and executive produced by Kevin Durant, the doc explores basketball culture in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Currently, Dyson is looking to follow up his recent success with his first full-length studio album. Also working on the album, esteemed producer Rockstar Reid, DJ Money (Wale), and Dyson’s right hand man, producer Shemon Luster.

Eli Groves

IG – @eligrovesmusic

Eli Groves is a singer, songwriter, and producer from Far Rockaway, Queens with a big voice. His sound gives off an upbeat, eclectic pop feel – think Usher meets Jason Derulo meets 2015 Justin Bieber. Groves’ single ‘Get To You’ recently debuted on Vibe on March 23rd, and was well-received by media outlets and DJs across the world. An extremely timely track, it highlights the struggle of being separated from loved ones – a familiar feeling during these times. Going forward, Eli plans to continue to drop high quality singles and visuals that inspire his listeners.

ReachingNOVA  

IG – @reachingnova

ReachingNOVA is a rapper, producer, songwriter, and entrepreneur from the Bronx, New York. His name comes from an acronym for his personal philosophy and reminder to himself that “No One’s Victorious Alone.” ReachingNOVA‘s catalogue consists of 2 joint mixtapes, 23 singles, 2 solo albums, 1 joint album, and countless features and music videos. Recently, ReachingNOVA released a single inspired by the current times, appropriately titled, “In These Times.” The track touches on current events and encourages listeners to think more deeply about the content they consume. Going forward, expect to see a solo album from ReachingNOVA in September 2020.

Lil Drilla  

IG – @_lildrilla_

Andrello Jagger LaFond, better known as Lil Drilla, is a young Haitian-American out of Philadelphia. In 2019, Drilla dropped his freshman mixtape Eros, which showcased a diverse range of melodic flows and interesting production. His biggest track to date is, “Wet Da Block” prod. By RG Tha Renegade. This month, Lil Drilla is back with “Say Bae” featuring Drizzy P & Tidge – a fun autotune bop for summer 2020. Unfortunately, due to the current circumstances, summer show dates have been cancelled. Fortunately, Lil Drilla has a new drop in store, hitting fans with Eros Reloaded: Deluxe on his birthday, June 9th.

Stone Cold Alston 

IG – @stonecoldalston

Ronnie Christopher Alston, better known as Stone Cold Alston is an artist and songwriter from Jersey City, NJ. After enduring a trying childhood, Alston decided to take control by turning his pain into profit in the form of music. Originally under the name Chris $tyles, he released a project titled Day One. After a break from music, Stone Cold Alston is back with a new name and new project, Call the Plumber There’s a Leak. This year, he’s planning on two more releases – the first coming at the end of May. Be on the lookout for new music, new projects, and new visuals from Stone Cold Alston.

China Man

IG – @cm.ny

Rapper, CHINA MAN out of Brooklyn New York released his first project last month. His debut 8-track mixtape, titled Special Delivery features his signature understated melodic flow over chill synth beats. With tracks like “Trenches,” “Cruising,” and “T’d Up,” CHINA MAN introduces listeners to his unique delivery (no pun intended). Featured here, the track “Time of Day” serves as a reminder to keep working hard “no matter the time of day.” Going forward, look out for more visuals to accompany Special Delivery – and more content from the CHINA MAN camp.

Travdidthat

IG – @travdidthat

Hailing from the Bronx, NY Travdidthat is a rapper, musician, and producer with a unique sound. In addition to rapping, Trav is a talented producer and guitar player – using this talent to produce interesting melodies and compositions. We hear this on the self produced track, “Masterpiece,” where a powerful guitar riff perfectly compliments that heavy bass beat. The purpose of the song is to remind listeners to always strive to make their ‘masterpiece,’ no matter the conditions. Lastly, make sure you find “Masterpiece” on Trav’s upcoming project From the Ground 2.

Oochie Spliff

IG – @the_oochie_way

Oochie Spiff born as Seiko Dotson is an aspiring rapper from Brooklyn, New York whose known for his extraordinary talents and high energy on stage.  His latest project “ The Oochie Way “ features his song “Work Out” which is the next single off the project. The up beat tempo gives the song a vibe everyone can have fun with. Not only is Oochie working on “The Oochie Way pt2” but the project is set to release this summer with some special features.

Famille Forever

IG – @familleforever

Born into a musical background, from College Park, GA, two brothers formed Famille Forever. Dynamite who played on drums and Bones on the bass guitar started the duo in 2005. Later in their career they’ve released the singles “Own It”, “How I Wanna Live” and their current single “Legalize It”.  The idea behind the ‘Legalize it’ was to add momentum in the legalization of marijuana in the state of Georgia. Being from Atlanta they felt it was the perfect time to celebrate the law being passed for Cbd and the decriminalization of weed. The group is currently working on new projects to be released in 2021.

Young Scrapz

IG – @youngscrapzmusic

Young Scrapz is an aspring rapper born and raised out of far Rockaway, Queens. Scrapz dominates his unique style of melodic yet street-felt music with every single. The idea behind his song “so cold” is to bring awareness on the danger of the streets. He goes on to say “I want my generation to know, the streets don’t love you”. Nevertheless, Scrapz says he is continuously learning in the music industry and plans to grow as an artist. 

WrittenInRome

IG – @writteninrome

WrittenInRome is the self proclaimed star from Newburgh Ny. He fell in love with music at the age of 15 and often found himself apart of freestyle cyphers that him and his friends would host in highschool. The now 22 year old star is on the rise with a captivating sound that blends both modern day melodic rap and the old school art of storytelling.

In his single ‘Boss Up’ WrittenInRome reflects on his darkest nights whereas he struggled with a 9-5 while close friends looked downed on him. Not to mention, the title “Boss Up” is a feeling he’s sure everyone can relate to. However, in ‘Remember Me’ he introduces us to the confident side of WrittenInRome while showing love to his city.  Despite his braggadocious side Rome shows a heart-felt yet heartbroken emotion on ‘Love Gone’. With lyrics like “can you tell me where the love went … how am I suppose to go on if I’m not next to you”. “Love Gone” is one of those songs sure to put you in your feelings.

Rome spent much of 2019 doing shows all around NYC & showcasing his talent as a featured artist on other artists songs. He’s already gifted fans with 6 new singles to kick off 2020 and now is gearing up to release his long awaited debut project.

DeMeir

IG – @demeir.wav

DeMeir from Paterson, NJ is a R&B artist whose genuine through each song. With a slow and rhythmic flow DeMeir, exhibits this on his single ‘weekend’. The idea behind the single came from a lit weekend with a girl he met out of town. She was a vibe and he put it into words the best way he could. In short, Demeir, is going to continue to release music that speaks to him. 

LMR Tarro

IG – @lmr_tarro

From the slums of the New Jersey music scene, artist, LMR Tarro still displays a smooth sailing, soft and distressing voice while stating the hardships. Tarro is an artist focused on his craft and has an undeniable level of skill. It becomes overtly apparent in his track (“FaceTime”), where he carefully articulates his emotions, and insecurities, directly at the woman he desires. Tarro just released his latest project ‘Alternate Realities’ and is currently in the process of releasing new visuals.

Hoodz9

IG – @hoodz9official

After moving from Eritrea to Kenya to Canada in 2011, Toronto artist, Hoodz9, taught himself English as a child by listening to music. He quickly become well versed in melodies and songwriting and developed an interest in pursuing music as a career. While on house arrest in 2018, Hoodz9 decided to turn his life around and finally pursue his dream. Within a month of making the decision he had completed over 90 songs. Since then his infectious melodies and raw street tales have garnered hundreds of thousands of streams and YouTube views. He’s also collaborated with Toronto artists Why G, Yung Tory, Ot9, Houdini and most recently Tory Lanez on his latest track Adore more. As a result he’s been grinding and recording like crazy since the beginning of quarantine and is prepared to reemerge as one of Toronto’s most promising new stars when quarantine is over.

M Flizz

IG – @m_flizz112

Rapper, M flizz was born and raised in East Harlem as Marc Brooks. The 18 year old rapper mixes his subtle, rhythmic and melodic flows behind each song. On his single ‘gifted’ Flizz highlights the fact that nobody believed in him until he believed in himself. He says “I know it’s a lot of people who doubted but I gotta shine… you say you down you gotta show me now”. All in all, Flizz recognizes his potential as an artist. He says his next step is a record deal so he can show his full potential.

Jimmy Yitty

IG – @jimmy.yitty

East York, Toronto artist Jimmy Yitty hits twice in the month of May with his new release “Cheddar Bob” produced by the Kount which gives a frantic yet savage like feel. Rapper, Jimmy, says it’s been 5 years since Yitty has released his debut project (also produced by The Kount) and it is their first collab ever since. The recent killing of Jimmys best friend was the inspiration behind Cheddar Bob. Jimmy has plans to release a music video next month produced by Bijan Amir. Yitty claims it to be the most creative video the city of Toronto has seen.

Heres the link to our ‘UP NEXT’ playlist:

Apple

Spotify

Written by: Alaisha L

The post #UPNEXT Powered by PRESSPLAYLISTS appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

The PressPlay Agency curates an ‘UP NEXT’ playlist which creates a dope opportunity for new artists to get heard by the people who matter most. Unlike other playlists, we’ve got the ear of the industry: our primary audience is made up of real artists, A&Rs, label execs, and music industry professionals that tune in to our playlists to find the next hot thing.

Jvaanz

IG- @jvaanz
Canadian Singer-Songwriter Jvanz knew he wanted to make music from an early age. With limited resources in his small town Jvanz used YouTube to give himself music lessons to develop his distinctive voice and sound. By high school he started MoJo, a music partnership with his close friend Mohammed. Right when they began to see some traction as a musical act – Jvanz’s friend Mohammed tragically took his own life. As a result, he released a heartfelt track titled “1-800-263-4944” – which became his breakout track. From there, he released a stream of well received singles leading up to his debut EP Parallel, including “Delusional” – which peaked at No. 2 on the Audiomack Trending Charts and was featured on the Spotify Billboard in Times Square. 

TruCarr

IG – @trucarr
TruCarr is a rising artist with a story to tell out of Watts, CA, home of TDE. Since dropping his first track at age 17, appropriately titled “Start Grindin” TruCarr has steadily been dropping new singles and visuals that shed light on his life growing up in LA. He saw gradual success until late 2019, when he dropped “Outside” – a distinctly west coast track that would quickly become TruCarr’s biggest song to date. Capitalizing on the song’s success, he followed it up with a new version featuring DaBoii of SOB x RBE – and later the “Outside Remix” featuring Blueface. In April of 2020, he dropped a track with G Perico titled “What I See” – a perfect pairing for a chilled out, LA vibe. Keep an eye out for the “What I See” video dropping soon, and a new project coming this summer.

Wazo Daveed

IG – @wazodaveed
Wazo Daveed is a 21-year-old artist, musician, and actor. Born in the Republic of Congo, Wazo created an art that’s reflective of his culture. His melodic and fun style can be seen throughout his latest project “Starchild.” Daveeds’ single “Notice Me” is an inspiration of his journey of finding success in the industry as an independent artist. The fun, energetic beat produced by Druskiwhatitdo is the perfect compliment to Wazo’s melodic flow. The deluxe version of “Starchild” is set to release before summer 2020. 

Demetri King

IG-  @demetriking1
Demetri King is a songwriter and producer out of Rochester, NY who produces meaningful sounding instrumentals suited to stand alone or for added vocals.
Kings’ latest project “Love Language” creates the soundtrack for two people falling in love as the world crumbles around them. An idea that almost hits too close to home during quarantine! Meanwhile, Demetri plans to continue to perfect his sound and create new music and partnerships.

Ovi Jozi

IG- @ww.ovi

Born and raised in New York, Ovi has been making music since 2011. Uniquely, Ovi found himself adapting to new styles and becoming addicted to the creative process. From then, he’s dropped a number of singles in his melodic, autotune style including “Drugs,” “Green Eyes,” and “All Black.” The rappers’ most notable single, “Aqua,” even received radio time on Rochester radio. Coming next for Ovi is the release of his new project, and Ep titled “Black & Purple Hearts.”

Cookie

IG- @cookenasty
Christina Denise Cooke, better known by her stage name, COOKIE, is an American female Pop singer, songwriter, producer and dancer. In 2019, she gained attention after dropping her first singles, “Bounce,” “Rainy,” and “No Title.” On February 7, COOKIE released her highly anticipated EP “Sweats & Fur’ – a project filled with velvety vocals and high-quality production. Her lead single “Rainy”, is a silky smooth R&B-infused pop single inspired by the feelings of being in love. Nonetheless, COOKIE plans to follow up her debut EP with visuals, collaborations, and of course, a new project.

Mali Ama

IG – @maliamamusic
Mali Ama is a R&B/pop singer out of Atlanta bringing us classic vibes with a modern feel. With range of spacey synths, strong vocals, and bumping 808s, she has created a distinct sound on her own. Dubbed a “chill ride bop,” her latest single “Say” is the perfect soundtrack for your next quarantine drive. Singer, Mali, is set to release another single at the end of June titled “Look At Me Now.” Whereas, the song is meant to highlight the progress she has made both personally, and as an artist. Hopefully it will inspire others to do the same.

OMB Savv

IG: – @omb_savv823
OMB Savv is a Brooklyn artist rising in the growing drill movement. Co-signed by, Fivio Foreign, OMB Savv is perfectly positioned to blow. OMB stands for ‘Only My Brothers’ – which makes sense when you see the huge support Savv has in his visuals. Savv recently debuted his six-track debut EP ‘NEW Lane’. The lead single ‘Back to Back’ is an infectious, high-energy tribute and collaboration with OMB Savv’s brother OMB Jaydee. Despite Jaydee being incarcerated, Savv uses the track to make sure his brother knows he has his back for life. With a strong sound and growing following – OMB Savv is ready to execute on his plans to takeover. In brief, stay tuned for a single dropping this month, followed by an EP this summer.

Mitchy Bagz

IG- @bt.mitch
Mitchy Bagz is a 24 year old Brooklyn artist, raised in Crown Heights. Being of Mexican and Jamaican decent, he began developing his talent in middle school during staircase rap battles. Bagz developed a unique sound that features high velocity bars with a distinctly laid back tone. This sound is showcased on his latest project, “I’m Not Here”. Hes’ dropped several singles in 2020 including “Progressive,” “Pressure,” and “Thc Smoothie Freestyle”. In addition, Mitchy Bagz’ new, quarantine-themed project “Vaccine” is set to release this week on May 22.

320

IG- @maze.320
320 is a group of artists hailing from Brooklyn, NY – including Maze, Spyda, Sneaky & Obucks. Also known as 320Ent, these artists are giving us their high-energy take on the Brooklyn drill sound. Equally, the rap group works together as a group or in pairs to put out singles like “Trap,” “Mini-van,” and “Ain’t On Shit.” Although, the “Ain’t on Shit Remix” started with the original song by Spyda & Maze. The beat’s heavy drill-inspired bass and infectious piano made the rest of the group want to jump on. To complete the remix, they added the rest of 320, and fellow Brooklyn rappers, Saad God and Diggo Finesse. The next move for 320 is continuing to push the group forward as well as highlight its individual members.

Heres the link to our ‘UP NEXT’ playlist:

Spotify

Apple

The post #UPNEXT Powered by PRESSPLAYLISTS appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

The Hip Hop Film Festival, stands alone as another powerful force moving forward within the world of Hip-Hop culture as a place for rising directors, screenwriters, and producers to showcase their works and receive awards alongside informative talk sessions featuring award nominated directors/writers, legendary established designers and so much more.

HHFF/Media

This season the festival hosts over 100 directors, producers and screenwriters from the United States, France, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, Canada, the UK, Russia, Switzerland, South Africa, India, Japan, Portugal, Argentina and more. The Hip Hop Film Festival features every genre (mystery, sci-fi, horror, action, romance, etc.) of story from filmmakers who live across the world. It is also the only film festival that seeks to share the profits from the festival with the filmmakers selected to participate

HHFM/Media

The 2019 Hip Hop Festival Award Winners and Nominees are listed below and if you missed this years event keep your eyes open for the 2019 HHFF nominees and awards winners on a screen soon.

BEST OF THE FEST

WINNER: Pas Honteux

Nominees:

Kasala!

Outgrown

Underdogs

The Closet B.I.T.C.H.

BEST FEATURE

WINNER: Contents Under Pressure

Nominees:

Scam Republique

Regret

Kasala!

BEST DOCUMENTARY

WINNER: Underdogs

Nominees:

Nowhere Bastards

The Process

The Killing of the Fifth Element

Shadows In The Box

BEST SHORT

WINNER: Pas Honteux

Nominees:

God Bless You

The Hip Hop Kid

BEST WEB SERIES

WINNER: The Closet B.I.T.C.H.

Nominees:

#Washed

Bad Web Series

Basic Lee

Sauce

BEST MUSIC VIDEO

WINNER: El Chapo

Nominees:

The Process presents Rasheed Cambell

OG Bobby

Rebirth of Slick

Know Me So Well

BEST DIRECTOR

WINNER: Jamal Hodge – A Happy Divorce

Nominees:

Michael Pickney – Blue Flame

Teo Frank – Underdogs

John Tucker – Pas Honteux

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY

WINNER: To The Madness

Nominees:

Nana’s Room

Sauce

The Hip Hop Kid

BEST SFX/EDITING

WINNER: The Closet B.I.T.C.H.

Nominees:

I am Hero

The Process Presents Rashad Cambell

Loose Lips

BEST SCREENPLAY

WINNER:  God Bless You

Nominees:

Existenital Donut

Winston

Keep It Movin

How to Cash Your Life Insurance In 30 Days

BEST COMEDY

WINNER: Bad Web Series

Nominees:

To The Madness

FAM Club

Rhonda Mitchell MD

BEST ACTRESS

WINNER: Shana Solomon – The Closet B.I.T.C.H.

Nominees:

Samantha Lopez – Me 3.769

Mitch Roberson – Nana’s Rooom

Regine Mont Louis – How To Cash Your Life Insurance in 30 Days

Erica Bowman – Basic Lee

BEST ACTOR

WINNER: Kyvon Edwin – Winston

Nominees:

Travis LaBranch – Pas Honteux

Philip E. Walker – The Hip Hop Kid

Guyviad Joseph – God Bless You

Dimitri Carter – Showtime

BEST SOCIAL JUSTICE FILM

WINNER: Causalties of WAR

Nominees:

Four Points

The Color of Skin

The Interview

Pride Is Costly

BEST COSTUME DESIGN

WINNER: Mr. & Mrs. Jackson

Nominees:

Outgrown

Blue Flame

Sauce

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE / SOUNDTRACK

WINNER: Nana’s Room

Nominees:

#Washed

Keep It Movin

Pas Honteux

Lionel Fantom

BEST OF THE FEST INTERNATIONAL

WINNER: Kasala!

Nominees:

1 World Under A Groove

Kangol: Hip hop University

Scam Republique

BEST OF THE FEST – AUDIENCE FAVORITE

WINNER: #Washed

Nominees:

The Closet B.I.T.C.H.

Keep It Movin

Bad Web Series

FAM Club

BEST OF THE FEST – SCREENWRITER’S COMPETITION

WINNER: Prospect Park

Nominees:

The Actor

Still Got The Juice

Toyz On Demand

The post The 2019 Hip Hop Film Festival Celebrates Culture, Creativity, Hip Hop & Film All In One Place appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

While on Revolt TV during Sway Calloway’s Doomsday Cypher, the Armenian Rapper, R-Mean announced he would release a new record for #MeanMonday every Monday for 52 weeks. This is the 10th of 52 releases! R-Mean kicks off the month of March with a brand new freestyle dubbed “Ain’t No Biggie,” paying homage to the late great Biggie Smalls during the week of the 20th anniversary of his death. On March 9th, rap fans across the globe will honor the 20th anniversary of The Notorious B.I.G.‘s death. The rapper hops on the super star’s classic “Kick In the Door” track and does it justice with a millennial twist.

R-Mean showcases his fire pen game with lyrics like:

“I dropped a tribute tape to Esco & Shady and had the net goin crazy, some balls to hop on that Renegade beat, never mediocre on them classic beats, R Dash is a savage beast. Yeah, but this for B.I., been 20 years, nobody greater, wish we could hear you on Drinkchamps with Noreaga, wish we could hear your opinion on rappers like Yachty and not the other way…”

R-Mean criticizes new rappers who don’t know Biggie and wishes Frank White was here to comment on their bars. He says nobody has come close to replicating the late Brooklyn rapper’s genius. And though he killed the track, he humbly acknowledges that he himself is no Biggie. Listen to “Ain’t No Biggie (Kick In The Door Freestyle)” below and tell us what you think.

RIP Biggie.

52 weeks is a long time, we’re interested in what this guy has in the chamber. Stay tuned on RESPECT. for the updates.

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The post R-Mean Pays Homage to Biggie Smalls in New Freestyle “Ain’t No Biggie” appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Philly rapper Gillie Da Kid is back on the scene with a brand new banger titled “Im Da Man,” featuring Boosie Badazz. The “King of Philly” teams up with the Baton Rouge native for a classic hood banger produced by hit-maker Coney Gurl. After dropping his first ever album “Welcome 2 Gilladelphia” late last year, Gillie Da Kid says it was time to drop some new music and what better way to do that than with a new record with Boosie Badazz!

“I had already recorded the record and I wanted to get a feature on it, and I thought ‘who else is the man in their city?’ I thought of Boosie and we made it happen. I personally booked studio time in Atlanta and dropped off the record so he could record his part on it. As soon as I heard his verse, I said ‘this b*tch is fire!’ This is a classic Boosie verse…this is going down as an all time classic verse from Boosie Badazz,” says Gille Da Kid.

The two rappers have endured similar struggles throughout their lives, from growing up on the streets to serving time in prison, and now Boosie is recovering from surgery to fight kidney cancer, but both have been strong enough to survive and keep doing what they do best – dropping hot music. “I wish [Boosie] a speedy recovery and I salute him. He’s still working even though he’s been through a lot. We both have,” notes Gillie.

Now with a new street anthem on his hands, the King of Philly wants his fans everywhere, no matter what they do or who they are, to feel empowered, like they are “Da Man” when they listen to his new record. With new singles and a potential new mixtape or album up next, Gillie says this is just the beginning of what he has in store for the new year.

The post New Music: Gillie Da Kid ft. Boosie Badazz – “Im Da Man” appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Underway for quite some time now, we finally have March of this year to mark on our calendar for Infamous N the Hood! After the release of the official album art and a few videos to hold us over (see below) heads are eager. What will the full length offer? If it’s anything like the few records we’ve heard already, it will certainly be one for all hip-hop heads’ collection.

There’s no denying New York City natives J-Hood and Big Twins‘ refreshing energy together on a record. Can you agree? If not, hopefully after this article we will have changed your mind a bit.

J-Hood, Yonkers representative and co-founder of D-Block Records, still holds his spot firmly as an emcee – with over a dozen years on the hip-hop scene. He entered young. He has studied more then you probably think, seen a lot (both personal and business) and still has a lot to offer moving forward. ODG is the clique, a collective of dedicated artists who pride themselves in unity and moving as an equal. It’s deeper than rap.

Now let’s take it to Queens for a moment. Having first heard Big Twins on early Mobb Deep records and becoming a Queensbridge staple to all hip-hop heads it’s safe to say he has taken quite a few notes over the years as well. Though currently basking in the west coast sun, his east coast grit is still very apparent and represented. Actually, he’s probably not basking a whole lot. He’s busy making moves out there – with multiple projects underway for the ’16 and cooking up marvelous dishes. Yes, Twins is an incredible chef – flexing his culinary muscles just as much as his emceeing.

Long story short, be prepared for a busy year from Hood and Twins. ‘Infamous N the Hood‘ is going to be an incredible Lp, period. It’s almost here. In the meantime, J-Hood’s forthcoming ‘Uncrowned King‘ will be available on 1/22 via DatPiff! Save the date. Big Twins and producer Twiz the Beat Pro will be releasing their ‘TNT‘ project this coming February. Keep it locked and most importantly enjoy the music. Peace and love.

J-Hood Instagram | J-Hood Twitter | Big Twins Instagram | Big Twins Twitter

The post J-Hood & Big Twins Gear Up For ‘Infamous N The Hood’ Album appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

A lot of us were introduced to New York City emcee Pearl Gates from his records alongside Masta Ace, Wordsworth and Stricklin (collectively known as eMC for those asleep). This music thing comes more then natural to him, from nostalgic hooks and to just raw bars. Now Pearl announces his debut EP Diamond Mind, with featured artists ranging from Boldy James to Masta Ace. On the production side, Pearl canvases work from Khrysis, M. Stacks and other notable beat smiths.

Below is the new video for the EP’s title track, produced by Sirplus and directed by Damijin’ Myndz. “Diamond Mind” finds Pearl Gates‘ third eye vision sharper than it has ever been – reflecting hope, maturity, and tribulations used as hope darts in under three minutes over a beautiful backdrop. After you check the video out, be sure to get your hands on the free download of the track right below it.

Now would be a good time to remind you of his European tour alongside eMC’s The Tonite Show run overseas. Pearl Gates will be the opening act on the whole tour (11/20-12/05). He recently stated, “My debut EP release and first overseas tour happening in the same month. This is unreal. Can’t wait to put on for my city!” We can vouch that the amount of gratitude and appreciation he shows for his current standing in hip-hop is very much sharp. Perspective.

You can pre-order your digital copy now via iTunes and Amazon. Or for all of you physical junkies, the cd fixing can be ordered via Below System Records.

Peace and love.

The post Pearl Gates Announces Forthcoming ‘Diamond Mind’ EP appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.