When you hear Omen, you can recall his feature with J. Cole on Friday Night Lights. He proved that he belongs in the hip-hop game. He, also, appeared on the Light, Dream and Nightmares tour with J. Cole and Drake who headlined. With his previous project, Afraid of Heights, he celebrated with his fans by doing notable collaborations.  With his upcoming project, it will be an incredible new sound that should release very soon!

We caught up with the “Self Love” rapper and we discussed his experiences with the Revenge camp earlier this year, some words of advice, that stuck to him until this day, from J. Cole, how the crowd reacted to the unreleased tracks from ComplexCon and more.

Photo Credit: Jonathan Manion

RESPECT: What was the energy like while making the ROTD3 album? Within those 10 days?

It was intense, for the first day or two I felt out of my comfort zone and had to adapt with everything that was going on in the different spaces and studios. But, after I got in a groove it was dope and really the best part was seeing how everyone’s writing processes and styles were different.

RESPECT: Can you say that you have worked with the artists or producers you have always wanted to work with?

I really had no idea all the different artist and producers were coming, I assumed it was just gonna be all Dreamville. But, it was dope to meet a lot of artist I was already a fan of and it was cool to be able to work. I was a big fan of Saba, Mereba and Smino beforehand so that was cool. All the rooms had different vibes and set up, some were R&B while others were trap or soul. It really depended on what mood we were in each day. One of the standouts from the sessions was Buddy who had this infectious energy — he made the vibe a lot of fun during the sessions.

RESPECT: From the first compilation album to now, can you say it was growth throughout the experience and years?

For sure, this was the first time we really set out to create an album. The other compilations were really just us emailing songs we each had in the stash and putting them together. We were all focused on making an album and in the end I was really impressed that we made over 140 songs in about ten days.

RESPECT: While experiencing ComplexCon this year, since you are from Chicago, I had seen that fans can hear the unreleased ROTD songs. How were their reactions to listening to them? Who stood out?

It was set up at the PUMA booth, built it out as a wooden studio where fans were given earphones to listen to some of the songs that didn’t make the album. I had fans coming up to me telling me they’re favorite songs off the compilation and asking about tracks that might be placed on the deluxe project. They were in line for hours just waiting to get a chance to listen to some of the tracks, everyone at PUMA were impressed with their dedication. It really showed the strength of the Dreamville brand.

RESPECT: What is your definition or perception of Dreamville?

That’s a good question… I would say that the perception of our label is changing. We’re not as niche or catering to a specific audience. I think we’re more versatile now with the addition of different artists like Ari Lennox, J.I.D and EarthGang. Overall, I think everyone knows we put love and heart into our music.

Photo Credit: Anthony Supreme

RESPECT: By being with Dreamville as a first signee, what can you say are your memorable moments with the team so far?

The rap bar crawl we did a few years back was special but, it would have to be Dreamville Festival. After being around basically since the inception of the label, and seeing all the different stages and hurdles,  seeing over 40,000 people all in one area coming for Dreamville, it was special.

RESPECT: Define RESPECT.

Respect comes with consistency and proving that you can deliver what you say will. You have to earn respect, and that takes time.

RESPECT: When will be seeing or getting the deluxe version of the album?

We are still working and figuring out the tracklist.

RESPECT: What can you be a few songs you have on repeat from the album?

That’s tough, I feel like my favorite songs changes every day I listen to the project. But I really like “Self Love” with Ari Lennox and Baby Rose and “Oh Wow… Swerve.” The second part of that song has some really great energy to it and it’s just refreshing. I also have been playing “PTSD” a lot, the one with Mereba, St Beauty, Deante’ and I. There are a lot of highlights on this project.

RESPECT: What can we expect from the Lolla festival in a few weeks from Chicago?

J.I.D., Lute and I will have a set. I can’t wait to see the reaction of the crowd when we perform songs from the compilation album.

RESPECT: What is that one piece of advice that stuck to you from J. Cole?

I had three jobs while working on my craft. It was a repeated cycle while trying to make progress. It is apart of my story. A scene of a story at that. I had a sit down with Cole and the piece of advice he told me was, “I needed struggles in order to appreciate the journey.” It had come along the way, and it feels good to be reminded toward those certain moments. It was a way to look at things in a different way.

RESPECT: What can we expect from your upcoming project?

I have a story to tell that I feel millions of people will be able to relate to and I’m bringing my sound along with experimenting to keep pushing the envelope. It’s gonna be dope.

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The post RESPECT. Interview: Dreamville Artist Omen Speaks on Advice from J. Cole, His Upcoming Project & More appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Machine Gun Kelly – Hotel Diablo

Image credit: Bad Boy/Interscope

It almost feels like this one is flying under the radar, but Machine Gun Kelly delivers his fourth studio effort Hotel Diablo, which sees 14 new tracks and features from Trippie Redd, Lil Skies, Travis Barker and more. Press play on that below.

The Plug – Plug Talk

Image credit: The Plug Records

This one has a pretty dope backstory: Amsterdam “coffee” shop owner Jack The Plug connected with music engineer Sean D to create the compilation project Plug Talk, which features the many artists that have passed through his establishment. It’s a melding of both the US and UK/Europe, 13 tracks features appearances from YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Tory Lanez, Dappy, Roddy Ricch, Chip, Lil Baby, WSTRN, Gunna, 67 and loads more. Check it out below.

Deepee – Tourist 2

Image credit: Deepee

Following fellow member Inch, Smoke Boys‘ Deepee delivers a new project of his own titled Tourist 2, which follows 2017’s Tourist. The 8-track offering also sees assistance from LD, Yung Fume, M-Way, Young Chencs and — of course — the rest of the Smoke Boys collective. Press play on the Londoner’s latest below.

Devin The Dude – Still Rollin’ Up: Somethin’ To Ride With

Image credit: EMPIRE

One of the most consistent artists in Hip-Hop music has returned with his tenth album. Check out Devin The Dude‘s new release, the straight-to-the-point Still Rollin’ Up: Somethin’ To Ride With, which sees 12 tracks perfect for your next few hundred smoke sessions. This project really needs little explanation: either you’re hip to Devin’s legacy/catalog or you’re not.

Idris Elba Presents: The Yardie Mixtape

Image credit: 7Wallace

Those that were already hip to DJ Driis aren’t surprised, but Idris Elba continues to wow his more current Hollywood fanbase with dope tunes to vibe and party to. Following his recent drop, the Kranium and Tanika-assisted “Stand By Me,” and his appearance on Wiley‘s “Boasty” (alongside Sean Paul and Stefflon Don) comes The Yardie Mixtape, which is inspired by the Idris-directed movie of the same name and sees appearances from Chip, Newham Generals, Toddla T, Cadenza and more.

Jaden – ERYS

Image credit: Roc Nation

After some teaser treats, Jaden finally delivers his sophomore release ERYS, which sees 20 new tracks and appearances from A$AP Rocky (free him, by the way), KiD CuDi, Trinidad James, Tyler, The Creator and sister Willow. Press play below.

03 Greedo & Travis Barker – Meet The Drummers

Image credit: Alamo

03 Greedo continues to deliver quality tunes to the masses during his incarceration. The latest is a dope collaboration with legendary musician Travis Barker titled Meet The Drummers, which sees five new tracks (including the lead single, “Cellout”). Press play on that below.

Westside Gunn – Flygod Is An Awesome God

Image credit: Griselda

The Griselda Records saga continues. From the camp’s latest comes Westside Gunn‘s new album, Flygod Is An Awesome God, which — in addition to the squad, obviously — sees additional appearances from Madlib, Raekwon, Meyhem Lauren, Alchemist and more. Press play below.

Dreamville – Revenge Of The Dreamers III

Image credit: Dreamville

Last but not least: J. Cole and his Dreamville collective (Cozz, J.I.D, Ari Lennox, Omen, EarthGang, Bas and Lute) once again come together for the third installment of the highly-rated Revenge Of The Dreamers series. Add in additional assists from Wale, DaBaby, Young Nudy, T.I., Buddy, Smino, Reason and loads more, you have one of the best Hip-Hop compilation to drop in a while. Check it out for yourself below.

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The post NEW ALBUM FRIDAY: Machine Gun Kelly, Dreamville, WESTSIDE GUNN & More appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

This week, we finally get two songs from that long-awaited compilation: “Down Bad,” which features J. Cole, J.I.D, Bas, EarthGang and Young Nudy, and “Got Me,” which features Ari Lennox, Ty Dolla $ign, Omen and Dreezy. Check out the big collabs below, and — hopefully — look out for that Revenge of the Dreamers 3 release date to drop soon after.

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The post Dreamville Reveals New Two Singles from ‘Revenge of the Dreamers 3’ appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

With only a little over a month left until Made in America, it’s only right we prepare you for all the greatness you are bound to encounter. This is RESPECT.’s guide to Made in America 2015:

-Be fully prepared to walk. A lot! Benjamin Franklin Parkway is a big location and MIA is making sure they use every inch of it. There will be plenty of artists to check out and most of them will be on different stages. You want to be comfortable but look fly? Get you some Yeezy Boosts (ya’ll like that huh?)

-Bring lots of money with you. You are going to want to drink, eat and then do it all over again. Trust us.

-Come with friends! MIA is an awesome festival and should NOT be enjoyed alone. Plus who is going to take all those fly pics of you?!

-Last but not least, expect to hear music from some of your favorite artists, not so favorites and many that you haven’t discovered yet. MIA is a mash-up of the best artists from all genres and it makes for a good experience. You come in expecting one thing and walk away with some really awesome, unforgettable memories. If you didn’t know, here are some of the artists that will be performing this year:

• Beyonce (YASSSSS)
• The Weeknd *Swoons*
• Meek Mill
• Future (DS2 Live? Umm, yes PLEASE)
• Lola Wolf (Who Doesn’t Love Zoe Kravitz?)
• Nick Jonas
• Mick Jenkins
• Grits & Biscuits (They get LIVE)
• J. Cole (Classic)
• Vic Mensa
• De La Soul (Hip Hop Vets!)
• Any So MANY MORE!

If you haven’t already, buy your tickets here! Let Made in America be the best ending to your summer.

The post Made in America Festival 2015 — What to Expect, Who to Be Excited For & More appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

In his music video for “LoveDrug,” Dreamville signee Omen tackles the issue of social media obsession. With direction from Veraluxe, Omen is able to display this obsession with the help of statics, relevant clips, and of course a girl taking selfies. Watch the video for the Elephant Eyes cut below.

The post New Video: Omen- “LoveDrug” ft. CJ Hamilton appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

They say that home is where the heart is and the phrase was given life during the 2014 Forest Hills Drive Tour. The Dreamville crew including Bas, Omen and new signee, Cozz, opened the show with their best lyrical abilities. J.Cole brought the comfort of his childhood home in Fayetteville, NC to Birmingham, AL’s Iron City with a full performance of his 3^rd studio album, 2014 Forest Hills Drive. The tone was set with “January 28^th” as Cole performed in relaxed attire fit for lounging, a stool and dimmed lights. He captivated the audience as he recounted stories of his most ambitious moves before The Warm Up, including leaving 3 minute verses on an A&R’s answering machine. Reaching back into his catalog, Cole performed hits such as “Lights Please” and Born Sinner’s “Crooked Smile.” The sold out crowd felt the moment by reciting all the lyrics and experiencing Cole’s hospitality.

J.Cole is currently touring in smaller cities and is being joined by the Dreamville team, Bas, Omen and new signee Cozz. Check out photos from the Birmingham, AL show below. Photos by Robin Johnson.

The post J.Cole Brings Fayetteville, NC to Birmingham, AL With 2014 Forest Hills Drive Tour (Photos) appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

After releasing the critically acclaimed Forest Hills Drive album, giving poignant interviews and soul-stirring late night performances, J.Cole will be hitting the road with his Forest Hills Drive Tour. The tour kicks off March 2nd and will feature his Dreamville crew, Bas, Cozz and Omen. Check out the dates below to see if the Dreamville crew will be hitting a city near you soon.

The post J.Cole and Dreamville Hit The Road For Forest Hills Drive Tour appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.