It's safe to say that Fat Joe and Remy Ma's "All The Way Up" is this year's New York anthem. The track has already been laced with verses from Meek, Jadakiss, Fabulous and Jay-Z on different remixes/freestyles. Taylor Gang rapper Chevy Woods is the latest to release his take on the Cool & Dre and Edsclusive produced track. Did he top the other "All The Way Up" freestyles/remixes?
New Sounds: Young Thug Feat. Ty Dolla $ign- "Friend of Scotty"
Almost a year after the leak, producer DunDeal has finally released the official version of Young Thug's "Friend of Scotty". The official release now includes an opening verse from Ty Dolla $ign. With two Young Thug projects underway (album Hy!£UN35 and mixtape I Came From Nothing 4) it's unclear which tracklist "Friend of Scotty" will make, if any. Aside from Ty Dolla $ign's assistance, the track seems to be unchanged from the leak we've heard. For all those wondering, yes this means that the line "No homo but my blunt look like a d*ck" made the cut.
New Sounds: Young Thug- "Gangster Sh*t"
After teaming up with producer Wheezy, Young Thug is back with a new single and on some gangsta shit. Despite having already released two mixtapes this year -I'm Up and Slime Season 3-"Gangster Shit" might just be Thugger's hottest release of 2016. The song was premiered on Ebro Darden's Beats 1 Radio show and was presented as the first single from the ATL rapper's highly anticipated forthcoming album Hy!£UN35. However, with Young Thug also working on his mixtape I Came From Nothing 4 it's still unclear as to which project "Gangster Shit" will be included in.
Click below to listen to Young Thug boast about his skills in bed all while reminding us of his gangster lifestyle. The single is accompanied by a Chuckle-Inspired artwork.
New Sounds: De La Soul Feat. Snoop Dogg- "Pain"
Just days before De La Soul hit the stage at NYC's annual Governor's Ball they release their first single off their upcoming album, And The Annonymous Nobody. "Pain" is a funky soulful track that speaks to anyone who has experienced pain. However, the song offers a positive outlook, and we hear "Pain' gone make it better" throughout the chorus. Snoop Dogg also offers a retrospective verse on the single, rapping, "Used to gang bang, used to love the clashes/ Now cash is the only motivation, but not for me G/ I'm into public relations". The single also comes with an interactive video game that can be found here.
For their ninth studio album, which is set to release on August 26, De La Soul turned to the crowd to for funding. Initially aiming to raise $110,000, the trio raised over an eye-opening $600,000. The expectations are high for this one.
Prior to And The Anonymous Nobody being released, the trio will embark on a 17-date tour. Will you be catching them in your city?
De La Soul 2016 Tour Dates
June 4 – New York, NY at Governors Ball
June 11 – Brighton England at Wild Life Festival
June 12 – Manchester, England at The Parklife Weekender
June 15 – Belfast, England at Limelight
June 16 – Dublin, Ireland at Olympia Theatre
June 18 – Düsseldorf, Germany at Stahlwerk
June 21 – Rotterdam, Netherlands at Annabel
July 8 – Moseley, England at Mostly Jazz, Funk & Soul Festival
July 9 – Newquay, England at Electric Beach Festival
July 14 - Lisbon, Portugal at Super Bock Super Rock
July 22 – Amersham, England at Penn Fest
July 28 – Berlin, Germany at Yaam
July 29 – Hünxe, Germany at Out4Fame Festival
August 12 – Riverhead, NY at FOLD Festival
September 23-25 – Long Beach, CA at Music Tastes Good Festival
Source: Rolling Stone
So Amazin: FVRTHR- "Make It Hot"
For his first release since his debut mixtape The Fvr, Further (styled as FVRTHR) takes us back to 1998 with his own version of "Make It Hot" by Nicole Wray and Missy Elliot. The Twin Life artist keeps it melodic but offers a quicker flow than the original as he tells the world about his boo- a Colombian chick from Harlem.
"I know, I know myself/ I want you girl and no one else," he sings.
Did FVRTHR kill this track or what?! "Make It Hot" was recorded by Peoples in The Gallery Room at So Amazin Studios. If you haven't already, make sure to also stream his mixtape, The Fvr, which is also available on his SoundCloud and was recorded and mixed in The Gallery Room. The Fvr includes production from Peoples and Shy Boogs as well as features from Remy Boy Monty, KC Bandz and House Party.
New Sounds: Rihanna- Kiss It Better (Kaytranada Remix)
Earlier this year, Montreal-based producer Kaytranada released his debut album, 99,9% and has been making a name for himself. Now, he's back again, this time with a remix of RiRi's "Kiss It." The single was premiered by Zane Lowe on Beats 1 Radio and is nothing short of dance floor-ready.
As if the remix wasn't enough, the producer also shared with Lowe that his mixtape 0.01% is in the works. Do you think he and Rihanna will link up for an official collab on 0.01%?
New Sounds: Flume Feat. Vic Mensa; "Lose It"
Just last week, Flume dropped his sophomore album Skin. The Australian producer recruited an eclectic group of talents to be a part of his 16-track project, including Raekwon, Beck, Tove Lo, Allan Kingdom, Vince Staples and Vic Mensa. From the hip-hop artists featured on the album, Vic Mensa was the only one who had previously hopped on an electronic beat. Back in 2014 Vic Mensa released "Down On My Luck," where he proved that he could actually dominate EDM-type beats. This time around he teamed up with Flume for "Lose It," where Mensa still manages to give off a mellow vibe in the choruses. Listen to the stellar collab below.
Source: SoundCloud
New Sounds: Rocko Feat. Rich Homie Quan- "I Swear"
For the first single from his newest album, Wordplay, Rocko enlists Rich Gang affiliate Rich Homie Quan to lend a hook. Though it's been a while since we've gotten new material from Rich Homie Quan, "I Swear" serves as proof that he still has the magic when it comes to hooks. Dope opening track or na?
Source: Hifi via YouTube
So Amazin: Craft Monroe Feat. SkinnyFromThe9- "Main Thing"
Bluntsiiiide! With his debut mixtape Bluntside God only 15 days away, Craft Monroe just released his second single, "Main Thing" featuring his 908 comrade SkinnyFromThe9. Skinny creates a melodic chorus, singing, "I ain't f*cking with my old bitch/ Me and you, we think the same thing/ I know you wanna be my main thing," over the Menace produced track. Craft takes a more serious approach on his verses but keeps the energy high, firing crazy metaphors in practically every other line. Though the song is mainly about girls, the Blunt$ide God made sure to include a couple bars that noted how lit the weed and alcohol have him feeling. Craft Monroe and Skinny might have a summer banger on their hands with this one!
"Main Thing" was produced by Menace and recorded and mixed by Shy Boogs in The Gallery Room at So Amazin Studios. Click below to listen. Make sure to also listen to Craft's first single "Been That Way"
Soulja Boy Has Dropped All Artists From His Label
When's the perfect time to start over? Apparently for Soulja Boy and his label, Stacks On Deck Entertainment (SODMG), now seems to be a good time for a clean slate. The "Crank Dat" rapper turned to Twitter to share with is 4.8 million followers that he's dropped all artists that were signed to SODMG. Soulja Boy claims he wants a new roaster for 2016, although we're just about halfway through the year.
Although it's still unclear as to what or who triggered Soulja Boy to drop everyone from the label, his tweet following the announcement hints at some "snake" activity.
Guess we have to stay tuned to see who Soulja Boy recruits next.
New Sounds: Lil Uzi Vert - "$UB ZERO"
Philly's own Lil Uzi Vert has been creating major buzz during the past few months with his mixtape Lil Uzi Vert vs. The World. Lately, Lil Uzi has been busy knocking out some features. He teamed up with Wiz Khalifa for the 808 Mafia produced track "Roll Up" and also joined Sosamann and Sauce Walka on "Dripping and Saucin'." This weekend, however, Lil Uzi blessed his fans with a solo track. Calling on frequent collaborat Maaly Raw, Lil Uzi lowers the weather on "$UB ZERO" while he boasts of his icy chains and money.
Source: Soundcloud
New Sounds: Justin Bieber- "One Dance" Remix
"One Dance" was the fist single to score Drake his first No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Now, it seems like Justin Bieber wants to lend his vocals to the summer 2016 anthem. Short clips from a club performance show Biebs adding a much more mellow feel to 6 God's pop track. A tweet from @OVOSound_Radio confirmed the remix and an accompanying video. Drake and Justin haven't collaborated since 2012 when they linked up for "Right Here," which appeared on Justin's third album, Believe.
New Sounds: OG Maco- "Don't Know"
OG Maco veers toward a more private life and claims he "don't know" you in his latest single. The "U Guessed It" rapper only offers one verse on the Money Montage produced track, possibly leaving room for him to eventually welcome someone else on the track.
Source: Soundcloud
New Sounds: Trey Songz Ft. MIKExANGEL- "Look What I Did"
Trey Songz has kept the momentum high this past week; remixing "Might Not" by The Weeknd and Belly, MadeinTYO's "Uber Everywhere," Kodak Black's "SKRT," and "3 Times in A Row" by TK-N-Cash. Despite his recent releases and overall success, Trigga felt the need to remind some people of all that he has done. He linked up with MIKExANGEL for his most recent release, "Look What I Did," where he walks us through his lavish life and remembers his doubters.
"They said I was never gonna amount to nothing/ They said I would never make it/ But guess what I did?/ Look what I did," Trigga sings on the hook.
Source: Soundcloud
So Amazin: Nader - "Take It Back"
We've all done things we wish we hadn't, and Nader seems to be no exception. Through his first single, "Take It Back," from his forthcoming debut EP Crimes of Passion, the New Jersey native creates an anthem for all those times we've done something regretful. Over the Shy Boogs produced track, Nader expresses that he was wrong for leaving his last lover and wishes he could take back any hurtful words that may have ruined their relationship.
"I want you back right now/ Can't beleive how it all went down/ All the words that came out my mouth/ I'll take it back now"
"Take It Back" was produced, recorded and mixed by Shy Boogs and mastered by Keylow in The Gallery Room at So Amazin Studios. Click below to listen to the song.
New Sounds: Eric Bellinger feat. Wale - "Spare Time"
Just last week, Eric Bellinger dropped "Spare Time," the newest single from his forthcoming album Eventually. The album is set to be an expansion of his latest EP, also titled Eventually. For those who follow Bellinger, you know his output rate is almost too quick to keep up with. Now, only a week later, Bellinger has joined forces with Wale for the official "Spare Time" remix. Bellinger, hops on the Willie Donut and Needlz produced track to ask a girl what she's doing in her spare time. "What you doing in your spare time/ Can I do you in your spare time," the California native asks. Wale, on the other hand, seems to be more concerned about the chemistry between him and the girl. Listen below.
The Bad Boy Reunion Seemed To Be The Talk of The Weekend And Rightfully So
Don't feel bad if you missed The Bad Boy Reunion at the Barclay's Center in Brooklyn this past weekend. No, not because it wasn't lit...it was most definitely lit. The tour was led by Puff and welcomed Lil Kim, Faith Evans, 112, Mase and...French Montana among many others. No shade, but...if anyone actually knows why French hit the Barclay's stage please let me know. Again, no shade. However, what was supposed to be a one-night celebration for the label's late but greatest artist, the Notorious B.I.G., has been turned into a full 29-date tour. The tour is hitting a number of cities, including New Orleans, Columbus, Chicago and Las Vegas. Unsurprisingly, the initial two events sold out pretty quick; but with so many added dates and locations you might be able to catch what might be the best throwback hip-hop concert of the century.
During the inaugural event, the Bad Boy family and guests managed to turn the stage into a 3-hour party that created the perfect balance between party and nostalgic feels. Diddy, who organized everything, took on the stage to rap and show off his dance moves more than a few times. However, despite his bars and what seemed to be effortless footwork, the ladies of the night may have stolen the show. It was no surprise that Faith Evans, the first lady of Bad Boys, put on quite the show, performing a couple of her hits including "As Soon As I Get Home". Puff and Evans shared an emotional moment when Puff got on his knees during Evans' performance and literally bowed down to her that showed nothing but love, respect and admirable for the fifth lady of Bad Boys . Lil Kim also took on the Barclays stage with an exuberant performance that quickly reminded everyone who the real queen of rap is, that is...in case anyone had even forgotten. Apparently, time seems to have healed all wounds between Evans and Lil Kim, as they eventually joined forces on the same stage. Mary J. Blige, who was technically a guest also put on a memorable performance, performing "Can't Knock The Hustle" alongside Jay-Z and "I'm Goin Down" with Puff. After her performance with Puff, Blige reminisced on her and Puff's friendship, crediting him for what she's become.
"Thank you for believing in me more than I ever believed in myself."
Puff's first girl group, Total were also welcomed on stage and performed their 1996 hit "Kissing You."
As if the original lineup wasn't enough to get the crowd going wild, the guest list was nothing short of excellent. Jay-Z, Nas, The Lox, DMX, Fabolous, Busta Rhymes, Usher, Rick Ross, Desiigner, 2Milly and Stevie J were also present at the reunion. Even Shyne Po made an appearance...virtually. The rapper, who was deported back to Belize in 2009, appeared on video saying,
"It was an honor and a privilege to be part of one of the greatest record companies ever. You heard? I want to say happy birthday to the greatest rapper of all time, Notorious BIG, Big Poppa, Frank White. Brooklyn forever."
The love was definitely felt and reciprocated.
"The first artist that started Bad Boy Records. If it wasn’t for you, there’d be no Bad Boy. I love you so much, deeper than a sister," Puff expressed.
The Bad Boy family might have not always felt like family to those involved and associated. Throughout the years, there has been bad blood running through the label as way too many artists have come and gone. But what was left on the stage this past weekend was truly honorary and heartfelt. Rest in peace to the greatest.
In case you missed it or want to relive it, here's a recap video from RevoltTV.
The Roots Team Up With The NBA For The Finals Theme Song
This year, the National Basketball Association called on The Roots for a finals theme song. Although it's still unknown which teams will be going head to head in The Finals, one thing is for sure, the theme song is bound to bring out the beast mode in any player. "My foundation and frame, they never shook that/ Been trailblazing my name into the book that/ Represents all the champs who had a chance and took that," Black Though raps over the trumpet-filled track. With The Finals being right arround the corner, you're likely to hear The Roots moving like champions in every promotional commercial preceeding the big game. Check out the inspirational anthem below.
SoundCloud Launches Its Subscription-Based Streaming Service, SoundCloud Go
With over 12 million users and an average of 175 million listeners per month, SoundCloud has become a major platform for many artists since its launch in 2007. Initially, what made SoundCloud so unique was their free access to millions of tracks, both user-generated and licensed content. However, after being slammed with several lawsuits from labels and other right holders due to royalty issues, SoundCloud was forced to removed millions of tracks from their library.
Today, the Berlin startup has unveiled their long-term project, SoundCloud Go. You guessed it, another on-demand streaming app that listeners can subscribe to for $9.99/month or $13/month for Apple device users (due to the 30% fee that Apple charges). The new streaming app is currently only available in the US but offers 125 million tracks including premium licensed content. What makes SoundCloud Go unique is that it's the first to allow labels and artists to handpick what content goes behind the paywall on a case-by-case basis.
“SoundCloud Go represents our vision of the future of music streaming. It’s a platform for creators to collaborate on, for fans to discover the latest tracks, enjoy legendary music and connect with their favourite artists, and for our unique creative community to have the opportunity to be paid for their work.”
This announcement comes just a week after Soundcloud settled a deal with Sony, which was the last of the major labels to land a deal with the audio platform. Though settling these deals and launching a streaming app might be SoundCloud's attempt at forming better relationships with right holders, they're now going head-to-head with other streaming apps like Apple Music, Spotify and Tidal. Though, Tidal might not be their biggest concern.
For those who aren't moved enough by SoundCloud Go to pay $9.99/month, SoundCloud will still be accessible without a subscription. However, users who stay on the free tier won't have access to premium material and will still be interrupted by ads every now and then.
Seems like there's already some people saying "no" to SoundCloud Go.
Sources
WSJ
Fetty Wap Sends A Heartfelt Message To A Young Fan Suffering From A Brain Injury
Time and time again, Fetty Wap has proved to be for the people-especially the kids. Last year, the "679" singer inspired a young boy- who, like Fetty, lost his eye due to a disease- to attend school without his prosthetic eye. Most recently, Fetty decided to send a surprise video to a 10-year-old fan named Anthony who is currently hospitalized and suffering from a brain injury. In the video- which Fetty appropriately started out with "Hey, what's up? Hello"- Fetty sent Anthony his support on the road to recovery and acknowledged how far he's already gotten.
“You and your family are in my prayers. You’re such a fighter because you made it this far. Your mom told me you’re such a big fan so you got to make sure you get well soon, buddy.”
Watch Anthony receive the uplifting video and message below.
"Papa watching his special video that was sent to him by his favorite rapper @fettywap1738 This truly put he icing on the cake of another great day! Can't..."
Here's a close up of the video
"Still in aw! My kids truly lite up when this video came through! 💕 We are a soulful household and we listen to all walks of music. But Anthony loved..."