Latest Hip/Hop Posts

J Cole – G.O.M.D (Riddim Commission Remix) [TMN Premiere]

Posted by Matthew Bloss - February 9, 2017

Riddim Commission
G.O.M.D (Riddim Commission Remix)

Comprised of BBC Radio 1Xtra & Rinse FM host Marco Del Horno & Dirtee Stank Recordings regular DJ Swerve, UK duo Riddim Commission have begun firmly entrenching themselves as two of the most sought-after tastemakers toiling under the proper House umbrella. From genre-bending original singles which showcase Riddim Commision’s infectious blend of house, garage, & grime to official remixes for the likes of Drake & Iggy Azalea, Riddim Commission have dotted their name across a number of aural aesthetics; proving their production prowess reaches far beyond that of the underground. The latest from the active pair is a brand new bootleg of J.Cole‘s “G.O.M.D”, and we’re ecstatic to be rinsing it first here on TMN.

On Riddim Commision’s jacking revision of “G.O.M.D.”, the pair successfully alter and carefully scale back J. Cole’s lyrical samples behind an effortlessly subtle dose of swooping staccato synth work and rhythmically choppy vocal reshuffling. Their version’s dominant melody & prevalent groove sit front and center amongst a sea of permutated electronicism while maintaining the essence of J. Cole’s original. Shuffled hi-hats skip along like a couple of merry schoolgirls cutting class on a Friday afternoon, while a dose of jackin’ sub bass never quite relinquishes its icy grip throughout the tune. The quickly ascending pair manage to keep their hot streak alive with their latest offering, and suffice to say, if you’re looking to add a bit of pep to your step, we’ve got you covered with Riddim Commision’s “G.O.M.D” remix above.

[Secret Ninja Pass] This Week at Beta 2/2 – 2/5

Posted by Clayton Warwick - February 2, 2017

With old man winter bearing down on the Mile High City, we have one thing and one thing alone on our mind. It’s time to head down to 19th and Blake and get toasty in the best way possible – by dancing to some top notch beats. Per usual, we’re making it incredibly easy for you to get off your couch and head down. Why’s that? Because we’re hooking you up with free entry.

Here’s how:
– Head to the front door and enter the club before 11pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Get there before 9:00 on Sunday
– Show this post to the cashier (Valid for 21+ only).
– The deal is valid for THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY, SUNDAY this week.

4B - 2/2

Joyryde - 2/3

Manufactured Superstars - 2/4

Nick Fanciulli - 2/5

[Music Ninja Radio] Episode 70: New Year, New Vibes

Posted by Ash El Gamal - January 30, 2017

Music Ninja Radio is a weekly podcast recorded and broadcast live on San Francisco’s BFF.fm from 4-6PM PST every Friday.

Music Ninja Radio
Episode 70: New Year, New Vibes

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Soundcloud || Spotify Playlist || BFF.fm Archive & Tracklist

This week we were ambushed by quality music across genres and, in this episode we share just a few of our favorite discoveries mixed in with some slightly older cuts you may have forgotten about. Oh, and also, brand new music from Jamiroquai! Continue reading →

[Hip-Hop] Frank Leone – Hometown Heroes (feat. FEMDOT)

Posted by Ash El Gamal - January 28, 2017

FRANK LEONE
HOMETOWN HEROES (feat. FEMDOT)

Soundcloud

The shit-stained footprint left by recent events has been looming heavy in the music world. Musicians, as they have been known to do, are using their unique medium to birth subversive, socially-charged anthems to reflect the times. However, just as with any music, certain songs resonate with each of us individually more than others. For example, “Drowning” by Mick Jenkins can bring me to tears but it may have a completely different perception in another’s eyes.

Earlier this week, I found what may be my favorite work in that vein–Frank Leone & Femdot‘s “Hometown Heroes.” Often times in rap collaboration, verses feel competitive but, in this case, the two Chicago emcees complement each other flawlessly: each telling a different story and the same one simultaneously. While the lyrics truly do express the burden of oppression, it is the recognition that it is a shared one that makes it so poignant.

As an Arab-American raised in a Muslim household, I was personally moved by FEMDOT’s verse, but Frank’s opening verse only crystallizes further in the context. The song’s ability to encompass women’s rights, LGBT rights, the abhorrent prison system and fear of immigrants presents a truly united front–showing that the youth really are aware and ready to act for change.

It’s a bit easier to show than tell in this case, so I’ve highlighted a few of my favorite bars below.

call another little boy a faggot, i’ma beat your mouth in – Frank Leone

I couldn’t love this more–the redirection of perceived anger and aggression within rap music subverts stereotypes without even trying. Straight from the heart.

Shit, our president is orange…and I’ll be God damned if I’m registered for not being Christian -FEMDOT

Yet another defiant declaration against something that is inching, faster than I’d like, towards reality.

Check out what Frank had to say below and give it a spin above. If the song hits 10k plays, he’ll be putting out a free download so make sure to share if you’re digging it!

The song is a left brain reaction to our country’s public change of face through both a rural white & black Islamic Chicago lens.-Frank Leone

Hip/Hop

[R&B/Hip-Hop] Jaalid – Rogue (feat. Guepy Georges)

Posted by Tyler Trew - January 27, 2017

Jaalid
Rogue (feat. Guepy Georges)

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Litt Music jumped behind a solid record from the Boston artist Jaalid. Together with Guepy Georges, “Rogue” was created. This R&B meets hip-hop jam is just what many listeners are looking for. With Drake changing the game, a ton of people are trying to flex this type of music, but not all can do it as well as Jaalid.

“Rogue” is one of those songs you put on repeat without thinking twice about it. By the second time through you already know the lyrics and are happy to sing along, even if your voice is less than satisfactory. Jaalid and Guepy Georges whisk you away on a smooth ride that never gets old. From the captivating instrumental to every syllable, “Rogue” has what it takes to make a big impact in hip-hop. Give it a chance, you won’t regret it. Head on over to iTunes for a copy as well!

Hip/Hop
R&B

Hajj – Pay Homage (Prod. by Sam Paye) [TMN Premiere]

Posted by Tyler Trew - January 25, 2017

Hajj
Pay Homage (Prod. by Sam Paye)

Soundcloud

Sometimes, like today, we get the opportunity to share with you music that isn’t out yet. With regard to “Pay Homage” by Seattle’s Hajj & Sam Paye, it doesn’t come out in full until Tuesday, but we wanted to give you all an early listen to this hip-hop homage.

Since rap was created, there have been countless names that have made their mark. With “Pays Homage,” Hajj dives into his list of influencers to pay his respect to those that came before him from Tupac, to Wu Tang Clan to the Bay Area legend Mac Dre. Sam Paye produced this edgy, vibrant record. There’s a lot of hip-hop at the forefront that doesn’t show love to the emcees of the past, so it’s nice to see that someone taking charge to do so with intelligence and fervor.

Not only does Hajj get into the past with hip-hop history, but he ties in his respect for leaders including Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcom X. With the current state of American politics, lines like “I know tomorrow ain’t promised” is representative of how many individuals feel. Only so much control is in one’s hands, so together Hajj and Sam Paye “Pay Homage” and let everyone else know (including contemporary rappers) that they aren’t afraid to come out swinging. Get your first listen today and ready yourself for the release on Tuesday through Bomb Recordings.

[House] A Tribe Called Quest – Electric Relaxation (T4PES X Nick AM Edit)

Posted by Mitch Marzuola - January 12, 2017

ATCQ
Electric Relaxation (T4PES X Nick AM Edit)

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Remixing A Tribe Called Quest is a tall order. You’ll need to bring your best, but as it turns out, Nick AM and T4PES did exactly that. These two managed to flip a hip-hop classic into a bounce-riddled house tune that would be difficult to distinguish from a KAYTRANADA edit. It feels like a completely natural progression, doesn’t overshadow the original, and maintains the funk that ATCQ has been priding themselves on for just about three decades now. Some may be hesitant about remixing staples such as this, but there’s no need to sweat because this duo simply smashed it. Enjoy a free download, get grooving immediately, and as always, RIP Phife.