Malik Burgers by @Elliotcartier

Last year, we introduced you to an enigmatic artist from San Diego named Malik Burgers. In the feature piece, we went over many things including Malik’s 1207 crew with Rob $tone, his humble beginnings & most importantly, he played his anticipated upcoming debut project. Despite a pro-longed rollout, the wait was well worth it as Burgers delivers one of the more self reflective projects to date in 2018.

Kept at a short but highly effective 9 tracks, Contrast Therapy is exactly what the latter word suggests, therapeutic. Sure, the Keely assisted banger, “God Damn” is probably the most marketable and instantly enjoyable track on the project, and “Dreams” highlights the qualities that made me a fan, but songs like “Thunder,” “Sweet Sixteen” & “Picture” showcase Burgers’ stout ability as an artist to paint scenarios with his words. With an equally impressive set of visuals released including the one for, “Sweet Sixteen,” Malik is having a solid 2018 so far.

Check out, Contrast Therapy below and be sure to get familiar with Malik Burgers.

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The post 1207 Frontman Malik Burgers Finally Delivers Long Awaited Debut Project, ‘Contrast Therapy’ appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Photo by Lee Hernandez

“He that can have patience can have what he will.”

― Benjamin Franklin

Loyalty and patience. These are two qualities that many strive to obtain, but very few have. Even fewer have them in the music business, specifically Hip-Hop. What started off as a way for OG crews like Zulu Nation to establish unity and lower the crime rate in their neighborhoods, has been overshadowed by the lure of money, clothes, and women. Gone are the days of block parties in the Bronx accompanied by future HOFers kicking fresh 16s, as we are now in the age of selling out arenas and performing in front of multicultural sold out festival crowds. The growth in the genre has really been astounding. But naturally, with that growth came a lot of greed and selfishness. We’ve seen literal Hip-Hop empires fall due to various reasons such as women, fame, and money issues. That’s not to mention the laundry list of cases where two people who started out as damn near family, end up not speaking at all. But that’s them. When it comes to loyalty and patience, the two Achilles heels of hip-hop, 19-year-old Malik Burgers sees no issue with waiting your turn, even when it seems like it’s never coming.

Photo by Lee Hernandez

You might recognize the Burgers moniker from the wildly successful, and catchy single from  Rob $tone, “Chill Bill”. “Shoutout to Burgers, even though he don’t be flipping them Burgers” says $tone towards the tail end of the Billboard darling – the song was one of only 10 Hip-Hop songs released in 2016 to go platinum. The track catapulted $tone to fame, money and a new deal with RCA records, but he wasn’t the only one. The success blew the door wide open for the rest of the 1207 crew to take advantage as well. Spooks and J. Davi$ — the two featured artist on the track – have parlayed their new found radio fame into full length projects and buzzing singles, respectively. But it’s the guy who wasn’t featured on the track, Malik Burgers, that has perked the ears of industry insiders. The San Diego native has accompanied $tone on much of his mainstream journey for the past year, which saw them treat NYC like a second home and head out on the nationwide “Turnt & Burnt” tour with A$AP Ferg and Playboi Carti. “Ferg is a real genuine and humble person.” says Burgers, and when speaking on the advice he received from an industry superstar like Ferg, Malik said the Harlem native kept it simple, “He just told us to keep going and make as much money off this shit as we could. I didn’t take that as in greed, but a lot of us came from nothing, so why not make a change in your life and get to it doing something you love?”

Photo by Lee Hernandez

It was that need for change that sparked the, “Pulp Fiction” rapper to start making music, “I was a sophomore in HS trying to find myself — doing sophomore type shit.” Expanding on that notion, Burgers continued, “I was just trying to find direction in life, just having fun. I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life but I just knew I couldn’t be regular and live a regular life and work a regular job, it wasn’t me. Still isn’t.” Around that time, Malik met J. Spooks, a buzzing young rapper from the same area as Burgers, but somebody on a totally different wave. *As of recently, Spooks announced his departure from the crew, citing creative differences but silencing rumors of tension between he and the crew.* Never the one to box himself into a category, Burgers decided to link up with Spooks and combine ideas.

“Me and Spooks were in a studio in Lemon Grove.. He mentioned starting some type of movement & I was instantly with the shit. So both of us kind of merged our group of friends that we were always with that made music too.”

There it was, the start of something fresh. Something new. Something San Diego had never seen before and something that Hip-Hop has been lacking. A unified movement. The crew though, needed a spark. Something to put them over the edge and something to help get their movement to the forefront, even if it wasn’t from them. Enter in Rob $tone and “Chill Bill”.

Photo by Lee Hernandez

“Within the hearts of men, loyalty and consideration are esteemed higher than success.”

– Bryant H. McGill

After leaving California to pursue school and other interests in Atlanta, Georgia, Rob swiftly returned back to the Golden State. Upon return, he was not only a different person, but a completely different artist. Having focused strictly on bars and lyrics his first few months of rapping, Rob returned from Atlanta with a knack for melodies and off-beat cadences, a trait Atlanta has long been known for. Spooks and Burgers saw Rob – who was an old high school buddy – as the perfect missing link to their unified puzzle and approached the rapper about joining. Just like that, the roster was set. When asked how many in total are in 1207 – an acronym that’s a play on the Lemon Grove, California zip code – Burgers pauses, then answers with a giddy smile, “9 that make music I think. As a whole, around 11 or 12.”

Photo by Lee Hernandez

Now while that may seem small if you refer to the “Hip-Hop Crew Handbook” and is certainly not near the size boasted by supergroups like Pro Era — who humbly claim a 47-man-roster — and Wu-Tang — who’s roster had stopped count at about a million; but if history has taught us anything, it’s that the smaller the crew, the better. Despite having huge membership numbers, neither of the aforementioned groups have been able to all come together in recent years to put together a project of note – though CJ Fly told us last year that this may change. Pro Era’s one and only crew cut was impressive to say the least, but hasn’t been followed up, and though the Wu has list of classic solo projects that span the Atlantic Ocean, the crew has failed to match the energy brought in their first two albums.

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life but I just knew I couldn’t be regular and live a regular life and work a regular job, it wasn’t me. Still isn’t.”

– Burgers

While it’s early, 1207’s relatively small collective plays into their favor, as highlighted on the recently released, ‘Lemotional Season’ a collaborative effort between $tone, Spooks and Burgers that is oozing potential and showcases each member gracefully. Songs like “Sweet Baby J”; “Beta” and “Outside” display the potential solo star power represented by $tone, Spooks and Burgers – respectively, while the standout track, “You Think You’re in Love” allows a sneak peek into how the three mesh together, which is beautifully. But again, it was the raspy voiced, energetic Burgers who caught my attention, with the best verse on the best song on the album, “On Me”, an ode to Lemon Grove – known as The Grimy Grove — and their newfound celebrity status back home. Rooted in chilling keys, draped in Rob $tone adlibs, Burgers absolutely rips the melodically driven track: “Sticking to the muthafuckin mission, on my mama Ima get it,” kicks Burgers on the track, giving you a peak into his determined process of thinking.

Photo from Instagram

It’s this determination and this attitude that has allowed Burgers’ to stay patient while $tone receives the accolades. Not only does Burgers morally support his 1207 brethren on tour, he’s $tone’s DJ, hypeman and the opening act for his shows, displaying a level of versatility that 1207 members gush about. It also displays his patience, a word that is key to the success of the 19-year-old. During my first conversation with the SD native, he had just gotten kicked out of his mother’s house during a disagreement about, music. “I wish I could just live on tour,” Malik said to me, visually fatigued from the apparent argument with his parents. This quote has and will always stick out to me. Having not even went out with Ferg, Carti and Rob yet; Malik created his future in his head. He knew right then and there, that being home served him no purpose, at least not full time. He was right.

During our second conversation – post tour – Burgers confirmed what he had envisioned,

“Tour definitely met my expectations. I still feel the same way if not stronger. Tour life is amazing. Just waking up in a whole new environment, performing every night with wild ass crowds. Nothing beats it.”

When asked about his favorite cities on the journey, he gives two surprising answers that, honestly, sum him up in a nutshell. “Montreal, Quebec, because it was out of the country and the crowd was insane,” says Burgers, “Can’t forget about the states, though. Lincoln, Nebraska was fucking crazy.” Despite the rock-star lifestyle and the aforementioned argument, his situation with his mother is better, having moved back in and proving to her that this was the right path for her son. One way he did that other than the tour, was by securing his own headlining show at Soma, a legendary venue in the San Diego area that is the hub for the local metal scene, not generally known for housing Hip-Hop acts. “I didn’t know it was really a big deal until I sat and looked at the facts,” spews Burgers, “I remember being in middle school and only hardcore bands would play at Soma, it was very popular. I never thought I’d be one to headline it one day.”

Photo by Lee Hernandez

The opportunity was put on the fast track following Soma hosting 1207’s celebration show for Rob’s signing to RCA, which is where I first encountered the group. While the night was meant to be a celebration of Rob and his achievement – and it was — Burgers again, unintentionally stole the show. During Burger’s solo set, he broke out into a performance of maybe his most popular track to date, “Hilary Duff/Pulp Fiction”, and commanded the crowd with the poise of a veteran way beyond his years. An underrated topic in performance that often gets overlooked is breath control. Especially in the spazzy, bass heavy trap music realm that we live in today. Although many of these energetic artists sound perfect on wax, trying to translate that into a live show leaves many of them falling flat, and often out of breath. Despite the punk rock like aesthetic to Burger’s music, his voice never wavered. Burgers kept the crowd engaged the whole time by yelling at them constantly, crowd surfing, playing live instruments, and perhaps most impressively, by swinging the mic over his head like a helicopter. At 19-years-old, before the deal, before Billboard, and before the tour; it was obvious that Burgers had the chops to be a star.

“True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.”
― C.S. Lewis

Now, the San Diego native is more at peace with himself, his home situation and life in general, some of which was put on hold to address a sticky situation recently. Burgers took his show back on the road with $tone, Ski Mask The Slump God and Desiigner earlier this month for Desiigner’s nationwide tour. During a one of the first shows on tour, Rob claims that Ski, who came out during Rob’s performance, seemingly to hype up the crowd, only did so to try and take their shine. According to $tone, they then reached out to Ski about hashing this out face to face, which was apparently never happened. In a now viral video taken during the next stop in San Diego, Ski is seen standing on stage with his arms folded, while Burgers performs a track. It’s pointed out in the video that Ski is 30-minutes over his set time and he is then escorted off by security. Doesn’t seem too crazy, right?

Wrong.

What happened the following day is now part of internet rap history. Buzzing enigmatic Florida rapper, XXXtentacion — who is part of Ski’s Member’s Only crew — quote tweeted the video of Ski with some thoughts on the situation that included threats of a genital stabbing and obvious hurt egos. This prompted a response from Rob, defending Malik, saying, “I’m not Drake”, a jab at X’s ever-growing obsession with dissing the Canadian rapper. After a few back and forth jabs between the two crews, things came to a climax the following night in Los Angeles. In a now deleted video, you can see Rob, Malik and a host of others running on stage to confront Ski, which is then followed by footage of him on the floor following an obvious case of being jumped. What followed next was an internet assault on Rob and Malik from the infamous cult fan base boasted by X, and apparently Ski. Insults and verbal jabs were thrown back and forth but nothing more. Now, the two crews are at a standstill. It’s been reported that both are now off of the tour but with X and Rob both set to perform at the Rolling Loud festival in Miami next month, this situation could be anything but over.

Regardless of what could happen, Malik says he’s trying not to read too much into the situation:

Photo by Lee Hernandez

We’ll see, man. When you go out places, treat people how you want to be treated. Be on time, handle your business and stay in your lane. Everything else will be perfect.

But all of that negative energy is something that Burger’s chooses to put behind him for now. Although X may be a flash in the pan sensation at the moment, Malik says he’s “unbothered” by the situation, instead choosing to focus on the future. One that’s looking brighter and brighter for him. Despite he and $tone pulling out of the tour, Burgers says he’s in a good place mentally. He’s also gearing up to release his second project, and his debut album, ‘Contrast Therapy’ later this year. If the lead single, “God Damn” – featuring fellow 1207 member, Keely – is any indication, the project will be one that changes his life, again. “God Damn” is a trademark Malik Burgers track. Produced by 1207 member Ed Jones, the song sounds like if 2 Chainz‘ “Watch Out” met “Straight Outta Compton“. The melodic, almost juvenile piano keys are mirrored with lyrics like, “I’ll fuck your bitch like god damn, get that neck like god damn/ fuck up a check like god damn, you know we next like god damn,” highlighting the internal struggle between wanting to live grown, but still being too young to do so.

Photo by Lee Hernandez

When asked about the project, Malik harbors the demeanor of a proud father, “It’s a lot more self-reflective than my previous work, I’m excited.” After hearing two tracks that are slated to be on the album, one slow and one that BANGS, you can instantly see what he was referring to. Simplicity seems to be the best musical trait of the young rapper/producer. On one of the unreleased tracks, “Dreams“, a simple piano melody carries you through the intro when the all of a sudden the beat drops and Malik slaps you right in the mouth. “I came to paint a picture, sh*t you never seen, if I die before I wake it’s probably just another dream/ If I die before I wake, just know that you can’t f*ck with me,” boasts Malik as the chorus drops. “Dreams” serves as what could be a hit single for the SD native, creating a dynamic duo with the aforementioned, “God Damn”. It also gives a quick insight into something Burgers has stated multiple times. “10 toes down, I ain’t never goin’ pop, bit*h,” rhymes Malik as he closes out the second verse, silencing any talk of him using his talents to sellout to the masses.

‘Contrast Therapy’ Album Cover

Though, “Dreams” will surely be a fan favorite, “Picture” — another unreleased track slated to appear on, Contrast Therapy — is the one where Burgers lets his pen bleed. Throughout the 6-minute-track — which sounds perfectly suited to be the outro — Malik lets it all out. He speaks on death threats, “Niggas want me dead but they won’t see the day,” and the struggles of real life friends coming to terms with your success, “Niggas who ain’t been around, quick to say this niggas changed/ You fuckin’ right, I’m sick of ramen on my dinner plate.” Perhaps my favorite part of this track, though, has to be Malik finding a distinct confidence and swagger during the otherwise emotional song. “If you need my time, I need the cabbage and a bag of chips,” and “I’m not with these niggas, so I’ll be damned if you put me in a box with these niggas,” are two examples of an artist who’s starting to realize their worth, a beautiful step in the evolution to accomplishing even your most wild of goals.

With the buzz surrounding his latest single, coupled the success of 1207 and the impending release of his debut album, the question on everybody’s mind has to be: Will you sign?

“I’m just playing the field really,” says Burgers, “I never really worry about anything like that. When it comes, it will. In the meantime, I just stay working, stay plotting & stay loyal to those around me.”

When asked if the attention Rob has seen lately gets to him, the 19-year-old almost feels disrespected at the question.

“First and foremost that’s my brother, it’s deeper than the music. It’s never been about the fame, I enjoy seeing my niggas doing their thing and putting on for all of 1207, you know? It gives me time to work on my craft and all of my talents so when I step up to the plate, all my shit is ready, I don’t have to play catch up.  It’s cool because I get to watch what he (Rob) does, the shit he goes through with this music shit — and a lot of real life shit — before i even have to go through it, so when it is my time I’ll already know what to do and how to move because I’ve seen this shit happen before, I’m in a really good position I feel like.”

Photo from Twitter

In a way, it’s ironic that Malik’s first big break came under the wing of Ferg and the A$AP Mob. Like Burgers, Ferg was once – and still might be – in the shadow of a leader paving the way. But like Burgers, Ferg stayed undoubtedly loyal and patient while Rocky tore the industry in half, waiting for his turn. Of course his “turn” resulted in two top-10 albums and a handful of highly charting singles, so I’d say Burgers is in good company. Another excellent, though odd, comparison to Malik was actually brought to the attention of me by Burgers himself. A known movie buff, I asked Malik if he could be any character from any movie ever, who would it be? Predictably, the young cat chose a character from rapper-favorite, Scarface. To my surprise, though, he chose Sosa, the cool and calculated nemesis of Tony Montana. When asked why, my shock turned to understanding.

“Because Sosa had the plan. He was organized and humble with his shit. Tony was lit but we all saw everything get to his head and what happened? Everything went left and his whole organization went to shit (and the nigga died in his own home) That’s not how you wanna run your ship.”

Humble, a word that’s tossed around more frequently than GOAT, but the true meaning often flies right over people. But again, those are them. Malik Burgers isn’t worried about them. By the looks of it, he knows exactly what he can bring to the table, but chooses to let you find out instead of berating you about it. Humility, loyalty and patience, the unusual calling cards of a Hip-Hop star in the making.

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The post Humility, Loyalty, & Patience: The Malik Burgers Story appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Hey guys, I have a question for you. Has Hip-Hop been kind of ehh lately or is just me? It seems like after the Nicki Minaj/Remy Ma scuffle that the genre has been a bit dormant. For a culture that thrives off of spunk, spontaneity , turmoil and controversy; we’ve been a bit boring. Where’s the scandal? Where’s Big Gucci Soulja at? I don’t know about you, but I haven’t forgotten about that money grab disguised as a boxing match between him and Chris Brown — who apparently is in more trouble mentally than we thought. I love you Hip-Hop, I’m just saying step it up so I don’t have to turn on VH1. With that being said, Smino dropped a classic — “Edgar Allen Poe’d Up” might be the best song title of 2017, or ever, Young Dolph decided to showcase his gangsta in the most creative way possible and a beat battle gone rogue turned producers Lex Luger and Southside into sworn enemies. That about covers the mainstream news for this week, but with SXSW kicking off this Tuesday in Texas, we should be in for a nice dose of exhilarating discussion topics in the upcoming week – I promised myself I’d use “exhilarating” in a post this week, so yes. In the meantime, check out these five slept on tracks – featuring 1207, EarthGang and more —  that are either sure to blow the top off the industry, or the socks off your feet. Maybe both, you decide. Peep below.

Milky Mel – “I Think You Know (Melik.xyz Rework)”

Arizona hasn’t been traditionally known as a hotbed for Hip-Hop talent, but by now you should be familiar with 21-year-old Tempe native Milky Mel. After releasing banger after banger last year in songs like, “Momma Told Me” and “We Got It”, Mel is is back with the infectiously catchy, “I Think You Know”. The track, which was originally released mid-2016, received the “rework” treatment from DJ Melix.xyz which catapulted the song to a complete different level. Melik does his best Dr. Frankenstein impression as he takes Mel’s creatively appealing bars such as, “All my life they callin’ a prodigy but I ain’t really done sh*t/ critics getting fond of me” and meshes it with industrial sounding synths that sound like they were picked up off the Yeezus cutting room floor. With Milky gaining notoriety as one half of the buzzing Underpressure duo, it won’t be long before the crooner/rapper helps put AZ firmly on the Hip-Hop map. Check out the track below and thank me later for turning up your Wednesday a few notches.

https://soundcloud.com/melikxyz/i-think-u-know-melikxyz-rework

1207 – “You Think You’re in Love”

When it comes to groupie jams, let’s just face it. NOBODY is fu*king with Hip-Hop – call me when Rock produces anything close to “Ain’t No Fun”. It started when NWA set the tone in the late 80’s, then Snoop carried the torch damn near forever, and more recently A$AP Mob has been the home of groupie attachment. Making a strong case to be next in line in the pimpin’ HOF are San Diego crew 1207 with their contagiously compelling ode to groupie love, “You Think You’re in Love With Me.” Coming off of 1207’s criminally underrated group project, Lemotional Season, the song serves as different side of the Sand Diego natives, which are normally known for their rambunctious demeanor. If the title doesn’t say enough already before listening, 1207 member Spooks kicks off the down tempo track by humbly declaring, “She wanna know my real name, but I don’t know” before panning over to crew front man Rob $tone —  of “Chill Bill” fame — crooning the chorus. The trio, which is rounded out by Malik Burgers, utilizes the whole track to showcase their impressive versatility and vocal range, something that hasn’t been before seen from the energetic, more trap focused crew. Oh & “You think you’re in love with me, but baby I’m so god damn cashed I cannot love a thing,” is without a doubt my most quoted phrase so far of 2017, so thanks for that Rob. Check out the track below and be sure to cop Lemotional Season, which is out now.

Eileezus – “In Store” 

Sometimes, a track is so good that describing it would never do it justice. Sometimes, a song is just so honest and baring of all emotion that trying to dissect what the artist was feeling at the time of its conception just does it a huge disservice. Bay Area native Eileezus and her beautifully written joint, “In Store” are a perfect example of that. I came across the songstress last year through her scene-stealing appearance on Rossi Rock’s Agassi, and was instantly infatuated with her songwriting style as well as vocal range. On “In Store” the way she speaks about her significant other has me desirous to say the least. “Will you call me back if I miss you, no time to see me but it’s cool” and “Always around and always on the go/ if I gotta chase you, I can’t say I won’t,” are two examples of her strong pen that embody the essence of this track perfectly. That essence being a woman who is in love with an ambitious man that seems to not showcase the same for her. The only catch? She seems to be okay with it. If only women existed like this in real life and not just art. Check out the track below and be sure to give her dynamic EP, Good Feelings, which is out now.

https://soundcloud.com/eileezus/in-store

EarthGang – “Missed Calls”

Look, I don’t need to hear it okay. I know I’m late to the bandwagon. I’m fully aware that Andre 3000 has already vowed to help with their next project and I’m also fully aware that the song I’m posting was released way back in 2015. Now here’s something you should know: I don’t give a f*ck. When I actually pressed play on this divine track from Atlanta natives EarthGang, I instantly became leader of #EarthHive — does that work? Coming in off of their amazingly underappreciated — I’m part to blame — mixtape, Strays With Rabies, “Missed Calls” is yet another ode to all artists’ notorious ability to not give a damn. “I”m so good at missing calls, bi*ch I’m perfect this year,” and “Fetish for flaws, lust for my scars/ and this broke ni*ga dick guarantee I won’t starve,” serve as two perfect examples as to why I feel like this track could STILL be a radio hit. Do me a favor and go back to your favorite tracks of 2015 and seriously ask yourself if they could fit in the scope of sound in 2017’s musical climate. I’m not saying ask yourself if they still sound good, but do they FIT. “Missed Calls” is a song that sounds like it was made yesterday which speaks volumes to the duo’s obvious potential to create timeless music. Don’t make the same mistake that I did, wake up now. Check out “Missed Calls” below and go buy Strays With Rabies, out now. Oh yeah, and did I mention 3 Stacks is on board?

Coach Tev – “Midnight Cruiser (Feat. Blake Cris & Oracle Jones)”

Last but not least, we check in with Dallas, Texas native Coach Tev and his smooth but brutally honest track, “Midnight Cruiser”. The title of the song describes it perfectly as it sounds like the ideal joint to play in your whip after leaving shortie’s crib at two in the morning. If we’re being honest, this and “My Collection” from Future should be placed in the Player’s Hall of Fame. “I push the two tone Chevy Caprice, down the street we can meet twice a week if you keep it discreet/ me no want conversation, I ain’t quiet ‘bout that/ and I ain’t sneaking through ya window, I’ll just slide through the back,” flows the self-proclaimed Heartthrob Teazy on the second verse, creating a soundtrack to discreet hook ups everywhere. After releasing dope song after dope song – see “Lefty” and “Omen” – it won’t be long before the industry takes notice of the rhymespitter. With his intriguing voice and his unconventionally tranquil cadence style, Coach Tev should be playing in speakers everywhere soon. Be early to the party, check out “Midnight Cruiser” below.

There you have it! Let us know how we did, did we get it right? Are we still sleeping on your favorite local artist? Let us know in the comment section below!

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Alright, look… I can admit it. I couldn’t name three Lil’ Uzi Vert songs a couple days ago if you paid me too…. Which I guess technically as a writer they do pay me for that? I’ve traditionally been labeled as “pretentious” and an “old head” by friends and colleagues due to my love for meaningful 16’s. Yes, bars and entendres make my world go round. Still, I’m a fan of MUSIC and a huge fan of a wavy aesthetic and lately, I’ve been feeling intrigued to see what makes my generation so infatuated with these artists. And after seeing WILD videos on Twitter of Uzi performing at various venues, as well as this Hot 97 interview — more on that later — I decided it was time to check out one of his shows for myself. Plus, it didn’t hurt that my new favorite collective, 1207, was opening up the night for him. Before you read any further, I’ll tell you one thing… I was not disappointed. Check out the recap below of one of the most lit — that’s what the kids are saying nowadays right? — shows of I’ve ever attended.

As soon as I arrived to the venue, this show seemed a bit different. Now, I’ve been to many many shows — ranging from Joey Bada$$ & Mick Jenkins, to A$AP Ferg and Flatbush Zombies — at the North Park Observatory in San Diego, but NOTHING made it ever look quite like this. There were lines and lines of people at the box office just hoping to score tickets, and that’s not even mentioning the line to get past security for people who already had tickets. I stopped to myself and thought, “Wow Uzi out did everybody this is nuts.” before I was quickly brought back to reality when I seen a group of people in dad hats with Lemon emblems…

The city was there to see Rob $tone and 1207.

Sure, many of the 18-22 year olds who attended were even more enticed by the placement of Uzi to close the show, but 1207 owned all of the buzz.

For those of you who are unfamiliar, 1207 is a rap collective that’s hails from Lemon Grove, California. A small industrial town just outside of San Diego. The group’s popularity has been spearheaded by the signing of front man Rob $tone to RCA records and the subsequent blow up of his debut single, “Chill Bill“, which features bandmates, J. Spooks and J. Davi$ — free J. Davi$.

Oh yeah, and this viral fight video didn’t hurt their rep either.

Since I reside in San Diego, I’ve had the pleasure of covering $tone and co for the last three months during their rise to prominence. Throughout that time, I attended a show that was thrown in celebration of $tone’s signing to RCA Records in late June. The show — which was at a small venue in SD named Soma — was a typical independent Hip-Hop show that saw day one fans turn up with the hometown kids right before the bandwagons came running.

I’m not sure anybody could have predicted just how fast that bandwagon would come.

The show at Soma showcased a group of kids who had acres of star potential and distinct personalities. The subsequent show at The Observatory showcased artists who had realized their potential and were currently grasping it. The contrast of confidence and emotion shown on stage between the two shows were day and night.

Photo Credit: Jega for The Observatory

First letting the crowd get hyped with Malik Burgers & Keely performing their RIDICULOUSLY turnt track, “Goddamn“, 1207 then sent out fan favorite J. Spooks to perform some of his hits. Though the unit was strong in it’s opening, the whole crew — and building in general — received a surge of energy when the hometown kid rocking the Lance Alworth Charger jersey came out for the first time.

Photo Credit: Jega for Observatory

Walking casually to the front of the stage with a mic in hand, $tone then put his hands up and greeted the crowd. “San Diego, what the f*ck is up? This my hometown right?” said $tone in the most confidence I’ve seen in a new artist.

A star was born, right in front of everybody’s eyes.

Unleashing banger after banger in tracks like “Ice Cream Man“, “If You Down” & “Suspects“; $tone then got the crowd going with three unreleased tracks that are going to shake up the scene when they drop, one of which features a crazy Rolling Stones sample. 1207 owned the stage, and they owned the crowd.

They own San Diego.

Photo Credit: Jega for Observatory

And this was all apparent even before the moment of the night happened. “Everybody get your phones out, get them lights up” said Spooks to the crowd as the anticipation grew with everybody assuming what was about to happen.

It was “Chill Bill” time.

Now, I can sit here and write about how “Chill Bill” was the most lit performance of a single track that I’ve ever seen — which it was — but I’d waaaaaaaay rather show you. So check these clips out and let the fans do my work for me.

.@youngrobstone – “Chill Bill”

This was the second time around…. pic.twitter.com/SPunTU5IFw

— RESPECT. MAGAZINE (@RESPECTMAG) August 12, 2016

Lemondary ?✨ @youngrobstone pic.twitter.com/CJt0D2XX4Y

— karrrrr (@SimplyKarrr) August 12, 2016

.@macburgz is wild fam lmao pic.twitter.com/At58VuvC0c

— AJ2 (@A20H) August 12, 2016

You just saw that sh*t right? Yeah, that’s why I just spent 900 words on an opening act. I think it’s safe to say that 1207 is here to stay, so kill all that “one hit wonder” noise.

After the sonic explosion that was 1207, the crowd was as hyped as ever in anticipation for Uzi to come out. Normally, the closer makes fans wait an extended amount of time as their DJ attempts to get the place jumping.

None of that was needed.

Due to the crazy hype of the crowd, Vert came out no less than 15 mins after $tone to a sea of applause and adoration. Rocking a fresh Vlone shit and some Yeezy Boost 750’s, the Philly native was ooozing with swank — no pun intended.

Starting the set off with the banger, “Do What I Want” from his newest project, The Perfect Luv Tape, the man instantly made me a believer. Though I’m still not sure I’m quite ready to jump on the bandwagon, Vert’s stage presence was undeniable. He truly isn’t a rapper.

That man is a rock star.

Which is exactly what he had said on Hot 97 but nobody cared to take it seriously. His crisp dance moves and precise cuts to the beat are more reminiscent of Janis Joplin than Tupac, and his melodic vocals are more in the realm of a rock band than any rapper currently out.

Unchaining hit after hit which included the two songs that even got me pumped up; “Money Longer” and “P’s & Q’s“, Uzi had the crowd eating out the palm of his hand. During the middle of “P’s & Q’s” Uzi simply put the microphone down and let the crowd sing for him.

They knew EVERY word and finished the track with crazy precision, keys and and all.

With fans like that, and a stage presence that’s from another planet, I guess Uzi really doesn’t need to rap. It’s time for “old heads” like me to get off our high horses and enjoy the ride.

As Kanye would say, “Listen to the kids bro!”

Well, you guys have my attention.

Check out more pictures/video from the insane night and be sure to follow RESPECT. Mag on snapchat — respectmag — so you don’t miss out anymore crazy nights like this one.

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Police can’t keep pulling these triggers, won’t go for that sh*t much longer.

– Mick Jenkins

With such a tumultuous week in the United States, it’s been hard to focus on hip-hop. The racial tension in our country at this time is at a higher level than it’s been in years. One thing that does help, though, is the music. In times like these, our artists serve as a mouth piece to the frustrations and notions that are being felt by the common everyday people. While these situations have been troubling to say the least, we have to come together and find common ground. This is where music comes in. Music brings people together like nothing else in this world — Pokemon Go doesn’t count — and during times like now, we must see the good. So without further a do, we present you this weeks With All Due RESPECT.: 5 Songs You’ve Been Sleeping On featuring tracks from artists such as Mick Jenkins, Malik Burgers and more. Check out the tracks below.

Salomon Faye – “Sexual Kung Fu”

Coming in first is the infectiously smooth track “Sexual Kung Fu” which comes from Brooklyn native Salomon Faye. The 2:13 long track features Faye spitting tranquil bars such as, “I give you all of my all that’s if you want to/ explore rounds of soul and release your whole/ let go of your control of only God knows” over beautifully placed shakers and hi hats. The song, which was a loosie that Faye released in early May, showcases his laid back style in full affect while also keeping that commanding energy. “Sexual Kung Fu” is the perfect track to throw on to get the good vibes going in any setting. Check out the track below and keep an eye on the Big Apple native who released the masterful tape Stimulation mid 2015.

Caterpillar Jones – “WicFoodStampsSocialSecurity (Feat. Luna)”

Las Vegas native Caterpillar Jones hit the nail on the head with this one. Correctly coining it “The Ghetto Nig*a Anthem”, the track “WicFoodStampsSocialSecurity” is a song that anybody who grew up in poverty could relate to. “Go get that milk with that Wic/ Go get them snacks with the food stamps/ You done worked your whole damn live, go pull your social security check” chants Jones and Luna on the chorus over a funky west coast style beat co-produced by Cosmicat and Isaiah D. Coming in off his recent mixtape, Tales From A LTD, “WicFoodStampsSocialSecurity” is a brief lyrical expedition into the lives of everybody on the “life cycle sponsored by the government” as Jones would put it. Check out the track below and be sure to check out Tales From A LTD, you won’t be disappointed.

Malik Burgers – “Pulp Fiction/Hilary Duff”

San Diego native and 1207 group member Malik Burgers comes in next with the incredible banger, “Pulp Fiction/Hilary Duff” off his tape Pulp Fiction. After a long intro reminiscent of “Thriller“, Malik steadily builds anticipation within the track, repeatedly chanting, “I ain’t never hold one back up in this bit*h” before a short pause and a verse for the ages. Burgers attacks the track with full force with bars such as, “I ain’t never had a pot to piss in/Now I’m pissing on the competition” and “Mama think I’m crazy because I’m fuc*ing different/said fu*k school/I can make a living off hard drugs and a fuc*ing lemon”. As you could imagine, the track bangs heavily in a live setting as you can see here. Burgers’ high energy coupled with his creativity and charisma are traits that will propel him to stardom. Keep tabs on Burgers and all of 1207 as they are the next to blow. You heard it here first. Check out the track below and be sure to give Burgers’ tape Pulp Fiction a listen.

BlaccOut Garrison – “Sex On The Floor”

Putting on for Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, BlaccOut Garrison comes in next with his wavy new cut, “Sex On The Floor“. “Sex on the floor/ I’m addicted to your love baby” croons Garrison over a smooth beat from in house TDE producer Chris Calor. The track is a loose one that was released by Garrison over the weekend and features him rapping sobering and thought provoking bars like, “Couch floor/ it’s war when we making love/ biting on your rug/ while you reaching for the rug” and “your body looking like a piece of art/ I love your imperfections, don’t you cover up them marks”. “Sex On The Floor” is a track that you can play while hanging with your lady, or while driving through the streets late at night, it’s versatile. Check out the track below and be sure to check out Garrison’s recent EP, Cranberry Applejuice.

Mick Jenkins – “Sunkissed (Feat. theMIND)

As I stated earlier, racial tension is a real issue at the moment – and in general. While many artists such as Dizzy Wright, The Game, and even Jay-Z have made songs and spoken out against the injustices of police brutality and racism, it was a track from Chicago native Mick Jenkins that captured the exact thoughts of black folks all around the country. “Yall can’t just front on us ni**as no more/ police can’t keep pulling these triggers/ won’t go for that sh*t much longer” raps Jenkins followed by frequent collaborator theMIND echoing those sentiments singing, “You love our style/ you love our skin/ that melanin that melanin that melanin that melanin”. The track shows Jenkin flexing his lyrical chops as he talks about the hypocrisies of racism over a hard hitting futuristic beat from Da-P. “At the forefront of the culture/ how you tryna drive from the backseat?/ more and more vultures coming at we/ racist motherf**ers ain’t happy” Jenkins flows on the track, providing a voice to the voiceless. Anybody with significant interest in the recent events — which should be everyone — will take great enjoyment in this track. Though Jenkins may be far from slept on, this song needs to be heard by more people. Check out the track below.

There you have it! Let us know how we did, did we get it right? Are we still sleeping on your favorite local artist? Let us know in the comment section below!

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I, Young ‘Vito, voice of the young people/ Mouthpiece for hustlers I’m back motherf**kers

–Jay-Z

We’re baaaaaaaack! Although a Jigga track these days could never be slept on, what way to better start the segment than by quoting the goat? Don’t worry I’ll wait… Okay exactly. This week we’re back with With All Due RESPECT.: 5 Songs You’ve Been Sleeping On and this one might be the best yet. Featuring rising artists from all over the country like Alex Wiley and Trade Voorhees, this weeks segment focuses on diversity. Check out the 5 tracks below and let us know what you think in the comment section!

Alex Wiley – “Untitled 3”

Coming in off his recently released project, Tangerine Dreams, Chicago native Alex Wiley delivers straight heat with the track, “Untitled 3“. Going in over a 3 minute track produced by The Burnin Giraph, Wiley delivers mind numbing bars like, “Matter fact let me lead you/ Matter fact I don’t need to/ I would only mislead you” that make you ponder over those maybe not so smart decisions you might of made over the weekend (we’re talking to you JR Smith). Okay just joking, I just wanted a reason to include that fantastic video. Check out the track and be sure to give a listen to Wiley’s Tangerine Dreams.

Todd Zack Jr. – “nextlevel.”

Throughout the past year I’ve heard rumblings and rumors of a rising new singer from the Midwest named Todd Zack Jr. The chitter chatter did not disappoint. The 25-year-old Ohio native combines his strong songwriting prowess with melodic falsettos. No where is this more apparent than on “nextlevel.” which is a sensual ode to the ladies off of his recently released project betterwithtime. With an infectious beat produced by Ke Yano$ and a hook that will surely get the ladies feeling warm, “nextlevel.” is the perfect soundtrack to a night in with that special someone…. or that special someone for the night. With less than 3 thousands plays under it’s belt, be sure to hop on the bandwagon now before the seats are occupied. Check out the track below and stream the project betterwithtime. here.

RaH – “Favor”

Keeping it in the R&B lane, the next track comes from Detroit singer RaH who absolutely kills it with the single, “Favor“. Combining his soft voice and raw — pun intended — vocals with his ability to command the track with simple adlibs like, “Bout to kill it right now”, RaH delivers a summer banger for the ladies. RaH also pays homage to R&B legend R. Kelly with the “Your body’s calling me” references throughout the hook. RaH definitely has next. Check out the track below.

Malik Burgers – “Thunder”

Known for his trap flow and his highly energetic verses with his 1207 crew, San Diego rep Malik Burgers slows it down a bit for the self reflective “Thunder“. The track features Burgers spitting perspective bars such as “Off that acid when I ask him why my dreams are getting closer/told me don’t run from the heat/ when the world is getting colder, it’s just a part of getting older” over a perfectly placed Erykah Badu sample. The mellowed out track is definitely a different route for the young artist, but one that shows promise and with his 1207 brother Rob $tone getting the RCA Records nod recently, the sky is the limit for Burgers. Check out the track below.

Trade Voorhees – “Back”

The pure definition of being “slept on”, Las Vegas native Trade Voorhees has been releasing nothing but heat for years at this point. “Back” is no different, a single of his upcoming EP, PS. 1995. A reflective track about his journey from snotty tott to Vegas’ favorite son, Voorhees showcases his lyrical chops with bars such as, “What’s his naaaame?/ Call me confucious/ that bullsh** you sayin it confuses.” Anybody with love for their hometown and family will be able to relate to this banger from Voorhees. Be sure to check out the track below, and be on the look out for PS. 1995, which is slated to be released this fall.

There you have it! Let us know how we did, did we get it right? Are we still sleeping on your favorite local artist? Let us know in the comment section below!

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