A Beat Tape opus from Seany Bsta

 

Sean’s humble beginnings as an artist started in the early 90s as a part of Melbourne's burgeoning hip hop scene. As a young MC, it was in the backstreets of Prahran that he first developed his love of collecting vinyl. After an unexpected detour to Cairns, Sean would go on to host and produce the city’s first hip hop show, the much loved ‘The Represent Show’ on Radio 4CCR. By the mid 90s, Sean had made his way down the coast to Brisbane where he had his first taste of live performance with the Resin Dogs. He also took his first foray into production, co-producing ‘Green Dreams’ on Hydrofunk Records, followed by ‘Where’s Wally Johnson?’ on the E.P Beats From the Volcanic Lab.

Starting with an Amiga 500, Sean graduated to the Akai s950. At the same time, he started to rediscover his love of being an MC, and was featured on Lazy Grey’s ‘Off the Tap’ and Brad Strut’s ‘Authentic’. In 2010, he wrote and produced his first LP ‘Drama to the Finish’ released on Karsniogenics Records. Sean returned to the studio through 2010 to 2014, producing the bulk of the Brisbane classic ‘Kold Heat’ from the 750 Rebels. Before returning to Melbourne, Sean was a regular DJ in the Brisbane club scene. While his love of hip hop endured, it was in the clubs that he started to discover new genres. At the end of a long night, he would find himself tapping away on his Akai MPC 2000xl, dabbling in house, disco, breakbeat and funk.

Whether in the club or with Melbourne’s First Press Edits, Sean continues to push the boundaries of his music and style. And always with an ear for new horizons. Sean now presents an unearthed collection of his MPC productions in beat tape form on Inner Tribe Records.

Empyrean Creation has already received early support from Mr Scruff!

Common Performs "When We Move" for Vevo Ctrl

 

Vevo, the world's leading music video network, announces Common as the next artist in their Ctrl. series with performances of “Imagine" and "When We Move," premiering today. Vevo’s Ctrl series highlights the work of hard-hitting, cutting-edge musicians making an impact in today’s music scene – both emerging and established. These artists demand attention, and Vevo’s Ctrl shines a deserving spotlight. Common's performances follow sessions from Rick Ross, Common, Rapsody, Fat Joe, Jeezy, Jadakiss, Fabolous, A$AP Ferg and more.

Common is the modern renaissance man — a GRAMMY, Emmy and Oscar-winning artist, activist, actor, and two time New York Times Bestselling author. He's one of the most highly influential figures in rap music, keeping the sophisticated lyrical technique and flowing syncopations of jazz-rap alive as commercial trends have threatened to obliterate the style's advancements. The Chicago MC's outward-looking, nimbly performed rhymes and political consciousness haven't always fit the fashions of rap trends, but his albums have consistently hit the Top Ten of the R&B/hip-hop chart and been praised by critics.

 

"Imagine" and "When We Move," are both tracks from the album A Beautiful Revolution Pt. 2. Common explained that the album was meant to emulate what a higher day would sound and really feel like. We have been within the midst of some robust political and socially difficult occasions. There was nonetheless harm, anger, and ache lingering, so I used to ponder, ‘What is the next step on this revolution?’ I thought of what being nonetheless in these occasions had introduced me and that was a peace past understanding, a higher love for self, a better reference to God, and extra appreciation for my household, buddies and the easy issues in life.

Arrested Development Ft. Big Daddy Kane "Vibe"

 

Amid the most monumental and influential VERZUZ to date, Hip Hop pioneering legend Big Daddy Kane joins multi-platinum Grammy Award-winning group Arrested Development for an epic “Vibe.” The single is taken from AD’s forthcoming album titled ‘For the FKN Love.’ The 16-track album executively produced by veteran frontman Speech and British extraordinaire Configa marks the first album AD curated with equally calibrated artists including Big Daddy Kane, The Sugar Hill Gang, Masta Ace, Freddie Foxxx, Monie Love, Kxng Crooked, G. Love, Tony Momrelle, Dee-1, and Fatman Scoop.

A moving arrangement of instruments underlined with powerful horns cleverly crafted by Confica and reminiscent cuts/scratches from DJ Nodef sets the tone for an infectious vibe. A vibe delivered in true AD fashion, invigorating enough to shake the core, yet mind rousing enough to empower the masses.

Once our tears, pain, and plights (some from our doing and some from society) are recognized we can begin to live our best life. Both Speech and Big Daddy Kane deliver mastered lyricism and wordplay affirming we all have a unique vibe, something special rocking inside of us.

Soulful vocals from Tasha LaRae and Cleveland P. Jones accentuate the energy for a hair-raising impression. The tracks’ climax, keep the vibe live, resonates and is sure to have music lovers on their feet moving with a sense of pride and empowerment.

Catch the "Vibe" and connect with Arrested Development, Big Daddy Kane, and Configa on Instagram @arresteddevelopment_ @speech_ @officialbigdaddykane @configa.

Problem ft. Airplane James - Lionel Richy

 

Compton rapper Problem teams up with fellow West Coast artist and label mate Airplane James for a music video to their reflective track “Lionel Richy.” Over smooth production by Vangogh, Problem reminisces over a past relationship while he questions her intentions with a new man and not settling for less than you deserve. The song is featured on his Smoke Break EP available now.

Meanwhile, his production company 50Million Media released a new episode of his YouTube show called Guess That Celebrity. On the show, Problem along with special guests hosts tell personal stories that involve a celebrity without divulging names while viewers try to figure out who it is. Watch Guess That Celebrity here.

The rapper turned entrepreneur recently launched his company Martin Holdings that includes a brand licensing agreement with global cannabis lifestyle brand and high-end retailer Burb. Burb just expanded their operations with a $4 million Series A funding with participation from 300 Entertainment CEO and co-founder Kevin Liles. Additionally, Problem spearheaded multiple cannabis businesses including a signature strain of Coffee & Kush cannabis, a pre-roll line named Benny’s and a special new edition to his Coffee & Kush mug line with a licensed Snoop Dogg Coffee & Kush mug available this week HERE.

LaRussell & TOPE Release The New Album “Cook Together, Eat Together”

 

LaRussell and TOPE follow up the release of their album “Marlin 7” with another brand new 10 track project titled “Cook Together, Eat Together” available now on Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal, and more!

Recorded in a matter of 3 days in LA at Hitco Studios, it’s obvious to see this Vallejo rapper and Portland producer have developed a great chemistry. LaRussell picks up right where he left off dropping plenty of quotable bars and memorable verses on this new project, while TOPE continues to elevate his production to another level. Surprising their fans and the music industry, LaRussell and TOPE double back with a new album only 2 months after dropping Marlin 7 and show that their work ethic is different. Receiving praise throughout the Bay Area and the entire industry, LaRussell and TOPE call on the legends E-40 and Nef The Pharaoh to make an appearance on Cook Together, Eat Together. Revisiting the classic, 40 and LaRussell make a new Vallejo anthem on the re-working of “Sprinkle Me,” while Nef The Pharaoh jumps on the high-energy anthem “Baggage Claim.” LaRussell and TOPE end the album on absolute high notes with the introspective “If You Was Me” and triumphant, fan favorite “Demon With A Halo.”

With no end in sight, be sure to tap in with LaRussell and TOPE on social media for even more new music and updates! Stream Here: https://fanlink.to/cooktogether

Prince Angelus and Glasses Malone team up for "Spend Some Time"

 

Prince Angelus and Glasses Malone join forces on the new single "Spend Some Time". With a recognizable Isley Brothers sample, this smooth self-produced single. Check it out below.

Spotify | Youtube | Apple Music

Mykill Miers & Pawz One "Double Homicide"

 

In a Hip Hop match-up as heavy as Freddy vs Jason was to horror cinema, Los Angeles emcees Mykill Miers and Pawz One have released their collaborative album titled "Double Homicide". The project is packed with multi-syllabic lyrical barrages and DJ cuts as gritty as the boom-bap backdrops for a journey through the dark underbelly of the city of angels.

Mykill Miers, the self-proclaimed "Hitchcock Of Hip Hop" has been a threat on the mic since the late 90’s, coming up in the same circle as notables including Planet Asia, Dilated Peoples and Phil The Agony. Pawz One has been releasing music for the past decade has been repping hard for the real ish. Speaking on their initial link-up Pawz recalls "I had obviously known of Myk for a while from killing it on the "Wake Up Show" to all the work he dropped. I was circulating around shows in LA a few years back and we ended up on the same bill a few times. We exchanged contact and did a few songs and I felt like it was a combo people would like to hear more from."

Production on the album includes work from Default Beats, Big Bob, Phaisrok, DJ Ray Swift, Science and Mykill Miers himself. Turntablists including DJ Merk1200, DJ Breeze, DJ Romes and DJ Fastcut lend their skills and emcees including Ruste Juxx, Mic Handz, Edo.G, El Da Sensei, King Magnetic and Buddah.

Click Here to Stream/Download - https://bsr.ffm.to/doublehomicide

Mykill Miers: Instagram | Twitter
Pawz One: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

YOUWIN Delivers 'Eden' Album

 

YOUWIN, a Bucks County, PA rapper, delivers his latest project titled 'Eden.' The 8-track album featuring UnoTheActivist is out now on all streaming platforms. 

The project is true to YOUWIN's uncanny lyricism. He begins with serenity to keep him on a path of righteousness and sobriety.  In what seems to be a world of defeat, YOUWIN is simply searching for freedom and love. His raw emotion heightens his honesty and vulnerability, while the soulful trap cadences are sure to raise neck hairs.

Enjoy the listen and we appreciate any spins. YOUWIN is available for interviews and drops. To schedule reply to this email or connect with YOUWIN directly below. 

Instagram and Twitter: @youwinmusic

Melissa J - "Toast"

 

Melissa J is back and better than ever with her latest single "T2L". This song serves as an ode to any couple who has been severely tested, and yet they've managed to forge a bond stronger than ever because of it. Dim the lights, raise your glasses, and let the music be your guide. Let's make a toast, to a lifetime of Love!

Stream below or listen on your favorite platform here: https://empire.ffm.to/toast

Canadian Reggae Sensation Rupert (Ojiji) Harvey Releases “Blazing Iron"

 

When it comes to being an international delight, Rupert (Ojiji) Harvey is no stranger to being recognized. Which is why it’s no surprise you and me are here gushing over this multi-award winning reggae staple’s newest release, “Blazing Iron” — available now!

Rupert (Ojiji) Harvey wears many hats: as a solo recording artist, as well as the founder of legendary Canadian Funk Band, Crack of Dawn, and also world-renowned reggae outfit, Messenjah. Harvey ran so that Canadian reggae could walk; for more than four decades, and counting, he has been a pillar for the reggae music scene in Canada.

During the trailblazing process, Harvey has become quite the decorated musician, picking up awards such as a JUNO, CASBY, and the Q107 Music Award. Recently, Rupert Harvey has also been inducted into the Canadian Reggae Music Hall of Fame while watching his music continue to be featured in several television and movie soundtracks. Harvey even accepted a cameo appearance in the movie, Cocktail.

In fact, it’s this “Blazing Iron” inside of Harvey’s heart that keeps the hunger strong...

“Blazing Iron” is the latest song written and produced by Ojiji, which features glowing contributions from Rupert Harvey’s brother, Carl Harvey — who is, in fact, a foundational member of the Grammy Award winning Reggae band, Toots and the Maytals. The “Blazing Iron” project also features Rupert Harvey’s son, Meshach Harvey, as part of the production team, bringing strong engineering and production skills with him.

While “Blazing Iron” is the newest release from Rupert Harvey, it doesn’t mean this accredited musician hasn’t been busy. In fact, it’s quite the opposite.

Busy with his current solo career, and also focused on the Ojiji project, after Crack of Dawn disbanded in 1978, Harvey made his transition over to Ojiji and focused on solo projects. Debuting with the single, “Ojiji - The Shadow,” he then released “Ojiji - Halfway Home,” and recently, “Once A Lion” — the latter of which was recorded on the Hawaiian Islands.

It doesn’t seem like the apple falls too far from the tree when it comes to this musically inclined family. Both Rupert Harvey and Carl Harvey are world-renowned musicians who receive much praise wherever listener’s are blessed with the sonic tranquility that is their voices and rhythmic stylization.

In fact, “Blazing Iron” incorporates much of the experience that the Harvey brothers have picked up along the way. “Blazing Iron” features a poppy timbre to fit well into the radio ready reggae that finds its way to radio, while also still carrying traditional Reggae homages along with it.

It seems like Ojiji is here to continue blazing the trail as Rupert Harvey’s alter ego, or solo career name. “Blazing Iron” is the newest single debuted by Ojiji, however the production value is still very much in tune with the projects that would come from Messenjah or Crack of Dawn. When it comes to greatness, that is hard to leave behind. Rupert (Ojiji) Harvey seems to carry this greatness everywhere he goes and pass it along to everything he touches.

“Blazing Iron” is available now.