Mos Def, Black Thought, & Eminem - "The Cypher"

Whoa..all I have to say. Three lyrical juggernauts within a 3-minute span? Goddammit man, it's one next level ishh right here. All three kill it, but Eminem definitely takes the trophy on this one. Okay, enough - just listen now. It really speaks for itself. Let's go!

Grandpa-J & Youngs - "The Jenerational Gap" EP

DOWNLOAD HERE

Here's the much awaited EP from the duo Grandpa-J & Youngs. Mixing styles of the West and Midwest, these two have created a sound of their own and brought great hip-hop to the table. Together, the both Grandpa and Youngs drop hard on their side of the music. A definite must-listen EP if you like great music. This gets a strong WFSL stamp of approval. Check it out for yourself!

Aceyalone - "Can't Hold Back" (Feat. Treasure Davis) Video

One word for this song & video - DOPE. This is off Aceyalone's latest album "The Lonely Ones". Such a sick track, I can't stop listening to it. Give it a quick run-through and I bet you won't stop playing it all night. I love funky drops, and this hear DEFINES funky. Not to mention the great lyrics attached to that incredible beat. Give it a shot and let me know if you agree! And if you like it, check out if you want to buy the album!

810 - "I Hate OPBs" EP [Hosted by Jaques Morel]

DOWNLOAD HERE

As I said before, 810 stays grinding. Yesterday (late pass by me!) he dropped the prelude to his upcoming mixtape "Glass Half Full" in a form of an EP. In this disc 810 takes jacks other people's beats (OPBs) and makes his own version of the songs. Really dope tracks on this, so it's a must-download. Check it out and let us know what you think!! "Glass Half Full" coming soon!

R.A. the Rugged Man - "3 Kings" Video

R.A. caught my ears when I first heard the Jedi Mind Tricks album "Servants in Heaven, Kings in Hell" on the track "Uncommon Valor". I had checked out his past two album immediately, one of which blew me away (can't remember which one). Now the Rugged Man is back with another album, "Legendary Classics, Vol. 1", and he's given us a teaser - and it's definitely something I'm going to keep track of. This drop is ridiculously lyrical and the beat bangs hard. I can't wait to hear more from the dude - stay tuned!

Amor Jones - "And More" (Prod. by know:Jaunder)

I've been following this dude Jones for a little while. Nefarious! put me on to his last mixtape, which was incredible. But that was just before I head out into my dream world and completely forgot about the kid. Today I got this track slipped into my inbox. Here's a track from Amor off his upcoming tape "The Wake Up Show". The beat is crafted by someone who'll sound familiar if you follow the blog - know:Jaunder of the Cosmic Souls Collective. In fact, the whole CSC (Nefarious!, know:Jaunder, Time Travel, & Juno Complex) will handle the production on this tape! Excited? I definitely am. Ill lyrics and no-doubt amazing beats? Sign me up for a copy! For now, here's a quick flavour test of what's to come. Check it out!

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

Sene - "WonLover" (Prod. by Blu) - Video

Another video I'm a few days late on, but a must-listen track. A song off Sene's upcoming album entitled "ADayLate&ADollarShort". This track is about that feeling and connection we get towards that one person in life fine that makes us always feel like we've "won". Something very deep and strong from my dude right here - a definite listen. Check it out!

Fundament - "Headshots" & "Bring it Back"

Here's two new tracks from my boy Tim Stuart a.k.a Fundament. I'm telling you, he's the next big thing out of Toronto; this dude's got crazy skill and his beat choice is awesome. The single pack includes the tracks and both of their acapellas and instrumentals. Definitely check this out, some real Canadian hip-hop right here.

DOWNLOAD HERE

810 - "I Don't Have A Chain"

810 has been steadily dropping tracks in my email since I disappeared. I would like to drop all them at once and overwhelm you all, but instead I'll just drop the newest track he sent up to me. This one is off yet ANOTHER mixtape he's working on called "I Hate OPB's (Other People's Beats)". This kid stays steady grinding and all of his tracks deliver fire. This mixtape drops Oct. 20th. His other tape "Glass Half Full" is on the way as well! Anyways, here's this track for now..enjoy!

DOWNLOAD HERE

People Under the Stairs - "Trippin' at the Disco" Video

I'm a huge fan of these guys. Unfortunately I've been pretty off-the-map lately and completely missed the release of this video off their new album "Carried Away". Better late than never, I guess. I usually don't drop stuff I missed, but this song/video is too good to pass up. Check it out!

Youngs & Grandpa J - "On The Road" Feat. Red Fox

Meet this great rapper/producer duo. Rapper Youngs comes from the Midwest of the US while producer Grandpa J hails from California. Currently working on their disc "The Jenerational Gap EP", which releases Oct. 20th, the two have dropped a single to prepare ourselves for the final release. I'm really feeling this!

DOWNLOAD HERE

Empire - "Boom 'n' Pound (Return of The Boom Bap)" Video

Meet 'Empire', a group out of Toronto. They've been working hard on their debut album "Get It" and it comes out THIS Tuesday digitally on all mp3 buying platforms. You can get a sneak peek at the album here, and definitely check it out! It's some dope stuff! So don't forget to cop that this week. Here's the official single & video - a back-track to classic hip-hop! Boom-Bap is in the house!

So..yeahh.. [Updates, Changes, & More]

UPDATES
First and foremost, my apologies for the sudden disappearance. I got numerous emails and tweets asking me where I ran off to. Truth is, I ran off nowhere. I've been here - not around - HERE. ON my laptop. Doing homework and work-related business. Blogging, and even music, was so packed behind all the other work that got piled up that I had to disappear from both WFSL and Twitter, and even two forums I'm on (one of which that died; coincidence - I think not! lol, nah).

Also, about my albums. "Classical State of Mind" is still in the making. I'm a couple tracks into that; I expect to be done that sometime mid-next year. Those blendstapes will drop in by surprise - you know I had to finish up the Blank Tapes. I didn't forget, don't worry! As for other projects, I'll let you know. Things are moving quick, so I can't promise anything.

CHANGES
But on a bright note, I've figured out a way to turn things around and make this blog more active during my busy days. NO, I have not hired extra staff, but rather there will be a change in the "weekly" business that won't keep me tied down on focusing on one artist. In the last little while I've gotten so many emails from artists that definitely deserve the promotion.

Instead of racking them behind numerous others for dozens of weeks, there will now only be "Featured Artists". No more weekly artists; whenever I receive something really nice in the mail, you'll not only hear what I got but a whole set of music and all of that.

Another change you'll see is that I will only be doing INDIE & CANADIAN music from now on. No more mainstream drops. Fresh-cut, underground, unknown music that I know everyone will love. This is the new direction of the blog and the way the site looks will reflect that soon as well.

MORE
Now I'd like to apologize to the sites that held me down and I had to leave'em for a little while. Shouts to aboveGround Mag and The Find Mag. You already knew I work with AGM with my opinionated blogs, and may or may not have noticed my disappearance on that set. I'll be posting something for this week, so look out for it! TFG is a newer site that spanned off of my boy Heaps's website MusicalSchizophrenia. That site began an e-mag called The Find which is now an online-website-mag. It's really dope and I urge you to check it out. It's REALLY dope and brings out REALLY nice music. In fact, a lot of artists I listen to came from the man Heaps himself; he's a great guy and has an amazing ear for music. Don't miss out! I'll be doing work with them in the near future as well, so watch out!

What's more? Some surprise interviews, guests, and a whole lot of indie promotion. I'm back and I'm ready to take this to the next level. I'll be giving you more details of that many changes coming to you on WFSL. Excited? Probably not..I am though..so yeahhhhhh...

Peacepeace & much love for sticking around,

- Beatwize

Professa (Young Maestro) - "Simple" (Instrumental)

I'd like to introduce to you the Professa, a producer coming out of NC. I got a couple beats from him a few days back and I felt'em so I decided to share my favorite of the set with you guys. His style reminds me a bit of Dre's, doesn't it? It's got that same flow to it. Well, anyways, check it out and let us know what you think!

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

Artist of the Week: 810

Meet 810, a 19-year-old, up-and-coming artist out of Baltimore. He describes himself as a "community college student who often neglects other things to do music". At first when I read this I had a bad feeling, but then I checked out his tracks. Song after song of his melodic flow, interesting delivery, and great beat choices - I knew he belonged in the feature. But then it struck me - I've heard this guy before!

A while back I was just checking on other blogs downloading anything that came out with a new name. I'd heard 810's "Supply & Demand" and had loved it. But unfortunately, in the wake of many new projects - all of which were great - I had forgotten about my dude 810. But now I listen to his tape very often, making sure not to miss a line. This kid is going to make himself something substantial in the industry very soon.

This week you'll see new tracks of his coming out from his upcoming mixtape "Glass Half Full" which is slated for late October. Can't wait for WFSL to give you 810 music? Hit up these sites to stay in tune with his upcoming releases:
Blog: http://810muzik.blogspot.com/
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/810musik
Twitter: http://twitter.com/810musik
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/810/17752821162

Would you like to be featured as Artist of the Week? Get at me! -- beatwize@gmail.com

Nefarious!: Time to Shine [WFSL Interview]

So now you've heard of Nefarious!, heard his songs, and gotten to know him a little better. But there's still so much you don't know about the kid. He's talented, intelligent, and definitely has a bright future. Hell, he's been featured on more than 4 sites this week! Keep an eye on the name, you'll definitely hear a lot of it soon. Here's my chance to let you learn more about my boy Nef. Check it out!

Beatwize: What's good Nefarious! Let's start with a quick bio of you..
Nefarious!: My name is Nefarious! from Hayward, California. I'm 18 years old and one of many Bay Area beat makers representing the new generation of producers. I enjoy long walks on the beach and...

Beatwize: Lmao, yea good place to stop. Tell us about you're newest album "More Than Music" and what went behind it? (inspirations, people etc.)
Nefarious!: I was inspired to make More Than Music by people that dont understand that music is very serious to some of us. Especially beats to me. Someone who isn't a producer might see a beat as just a beat and wonder where the rapping is, and others appreciate it for what it is. So this album was for those people.

Beatwize: It seems that it has given you some great exposure, you've been getting features left and right. How does it feel to get this sudden rise in recognition?
Nefarious!: It feels good, like people are finally getting onto my shit. If no one hears your music it doesn't matter if it sounds good or not because you are just another tree falling in the forrest. Before I knew how much blogs make a difference I used to drop everything just on MySpace, but making connections with blogs and shit increased the download numbers drastically.

Beatwize: You run with a crew by the name of "Cosmic Souls Collective". How did you guys meet and how did this group come together?
Nefarious!: We basically met on the internet, know:juander sent me songs to post on my site The Soul Dojo and I liked it. Me and Juno Complex go way back to when I was still making beats on FL Studio, and Time Travel is just dope... Actually it probably didn't even go down like that. But somehow we just all decided to make a production collective.

Beatwize: Are you guys in constant competition or do you guys just appreciate each others music and success as a group?
Nefarious!: We all help promote each others music and respect what we make. I guess we all are in competition because no one wants to have the weakest beat on the beat tape or myspace or whatever. We all keep each other in check because with everyone trying to outdo each other, we will all improve.

Beatwize: Who do you like to work with at the moment? Who would you like to work with in the future?
Nefarious!: I like working with Amor Jones because our styles go great together. That dude be beggin me for beats callin me crying and shit *laughs*. In the future I'd like to work with more producers and maybe some already-established emcees.

Beatwize: You seem to have a very long catalogue. What beat that you've made is you're favorite?
Nefarious!: Man, I have a new favorite beat of mine every day. Right now it would probably be Take My Love which was also the single for More Than Music.

Beatwize: What new projects are you helping out with? It seems a lot of people are looking for that Nefarious! seal nowadays.
Nefarious!: Right now I will be dropping a project with Kris Kasanova hosted by MTRoots thanks to KNOWxONE from ManifestTheRhyme.com Hallway Jay at illRoots.com. I also am going to have production on Amor Jones's next 2 projects, and my album The Soul Dojo that seems like it will never be finished.

Beatwize: Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Nefarious!: Hopefully making a living with music. I'd be happier just getting by with a job I love than be rich and bored and shit. Taking a big chance with music right now. Ain't no Plan-B on some Tanya Morgan shit.
Beatwize: You've mentioned in the past that you used to rap? What made you stop? Will you be coming back to it anytime soon?
Nefarious!: I stopped because I wasn't really good (laughs). I took up producing full time and got better at producing than I was rapping. I do plan on making a come back, but don't expect to hear anything too soon.

Beatwize: Who's you're favorite producer? Why?
Nefarious!: J Dilla would be my favorite producer because he has made beats that are just IMPOSSIBLE to remake. I could remake a Pete Rock or 9th Wonder beat with ease, not saying they aren't dope. But listen to the sample to A Tribe Called Quest's "Find A Way" or Black Star's "Little Brother" and see what I'm talking about. Madlib is my favorite producer alive because he also composes if you are familiar with Yesterday's New Quintet. Shit's dope.

Beatwize: Thanks for your time and looking forward to more work from you!
Nefarious!: No problem man. New music soon! Be on the look out!

Drex Inkredible - "Pilot Project" Mixtape + "Rise to the Top" Video

If you are interested in aiding a charitable foundation, please read the blurb below the download link. Thanks! Also, there is a video at the end of the blurb for an album preview.

DOWNLOAD HERE

Meet Drex Inkredible, an artist from Canada. He began creating quite the local star but recently has begun boasting some international exposure; and why not? Drex has an original, undeniable style that makes you want more. But if you think that's where it ends, you're very wrong.

"Pilot Project" is just a pre-cursor to the real album. This real album will not only be undoubtedly great, but will also be a charitable action by Drex. All proceeds will go to a Media Arts Center in Rio which will help kids get careers in areas concerning video, photography, music, radio, and the list goes on. The album, entitled "City to City", will be coming out in the late Fall of this year and is definitely something you should go and get. If the name "Drex" sounds familiar, it's because he is also the founder of TheRemixProject, a charitable foundation. Keep following WFSL if you want more Drex as there is a lot more coming in the near future!

"Rise to the Top" Video..

"Hip-Hop Ain't Dead. It Lives In The North." Mixtape

DOWNLOAD HERE

The brand that has sold numerous shirts creates a mixtape filled with Canadian artists. Unfortunately this misses some vitals like k-os, K'naan, Shad, Fundament, and numerous others but it's still really dope. Some really great artists on this list that I haven't even heard of, so this was a big eye-opener. If you're from Canada, get to meet some diamonds in the rough and check it out. Some really ill stuff in this.

Brought to you by:
HipHopCanada | ItLivesInTheNorth

A.R.M. - "Heaven Only Knows" (Feat. Brother Ali) Video

New drop from A.R.M. with that dude Bro Ali. First time I've heard of A.R.M. but I'm going to look more into him for sure - this track goes hard. Really good work by both of them, check it out and give it a few listens!

Fresh Daily - "Untucked Nunchucks" Video

New video from Fresh Daily off of his mixtape "The Gorgeous Killer in Crimes of Passion". Pretty dope, check it out!

Stoney Jackson (Strong Arm Steady & Madlib) - "Get Ya Money Right"

I woke up this morning with a pleasant surprise in my inbox. It seems that Strong Arm Steady and Madlib are joining forces as Stoney Jackson under StonesThrow Records. A 16-track LP is in the making which will include the likes of Talib Kweli, Guilty Simpson, Phonte, & Planet Asia. For now all we have is this free leak they've given us throught a podcast. Since it's not a full CDQ, the quality isn't mint, but it's still a good listen. The link jumps to iTunes. Hope you enjoy it! I sure did!

DOWNLOAD HERE

Kublakai - "Lights for the Dark Nights" EP

DOWNLOAD HERE

Here's a freEP from a dude named Kublakai. This was deemed a "masterpiece" by aboveGround magazine, and I agree completely. Full production is by Slouch and he does a great job at the back-end of the project. Short and sweet, this disc is definitely a multi-repeat listen; so check it out and let us know what you think!

Internet Promotion for the Indie Artist [Wize Thoughts]

This week I go over a few thoughts on how indie artists can use the internet to their advantage. There are numerous sites and techniques to do this, but I focus on "branding" yourself. More inside!

CLICK HERE TO READ IT!

Nefarious! on uStream with HiTekFX

My dude Nefarious! sits down with HiTekFX on his Monday Night Mixshow. I caught the beginning of the live stream yesterday but wasn't able to finish it up. But I checked out a bit more in the morning and it's a good watch. Nef is doing big things, getting featured everywhere. He's finally getting the recognition deserved. So, here it is - Nef on uStream with HiTekFX..

Jay-Z Rhapsody Commercial

This is a really cool commercial with an awesome concept. It's to promote Jay's upcoming (already leaked) album "Bluprint 3". "Jay-Z fans get it."


Props to Dmack of SoundSociety for finding this!

KRS-One, Buckshot, & K'naan in the Studio

K'naan joins KRS and Buckshot in the making of the duo's upcoming album "Survival Skills". The track they're working on is called "Think of All the Things". Can't wait for the album! Big ups to K'naan and his grind, really paid off!

Artist of the Week: Nefarious!

You've seen him before on the blog. His name is Nefarious!, yes with the exclamation. Nef is a producer from a crew known as the Cosmic Souls Collection which consists of him, know:Jaunder, Time Travel, and Juno Complex. His and his accomplices' styles really fulfill the name with their soulful, jazzy, mellow, spacey beats. But back to Nefarious!..

Nef has produced for artists like SLik d, J. Nolan, Amor Jones, and numerous others; this doesn't even include his instrumental albums. This is one of the examples of steady grind. He never stops, stays on top of things, and always gets his ishh done. He's got some heavy indie artists getting at him recently to do work as well; the dude obviously has a bright future.

This week you'll see exactly what I'm talking about if you haven't already yet. Nefarious! just dropped his latest instrumental album on Friday entitled "More Than Music". If you want a good look at his style you should definitely check it out. A lot more coming this week!

If you want more already, catch Nef on the net:
Twitter: http://twitter.com/NefTheDamaja
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/nefariousprod

Would you like to be featured as Artist of the Week? Get at me! -- beatwize@gmail.com

Indy Sparks - "Circa '09" EP

DOWNLOAD HERE

Here's a freEP from a dude named Indy Sparks. I was introduced to him just today with this 20-minute project and his myspace - both of which I felt were worth putting out there for you. Dude's a soulful, carefree artist; this EP is deff a good summer listen. Very relaxing and surprisingly keeps you listening intently. Although short, it sure it sweet. Peep it and let us know what you think!

Wordspit - "The Coolest BBoi Stance" Mixtape

DOWNLOAD HERE

Late pass on this one. I got it when it came out, listened to it, and just completely forgot to hook you guys up with it. If you guys have been following the blog, you already know I'm a huge fan of the kid. Dope and original lyrics and style that'll make you want more. I haven't had a chance to hear the tape in concentration, but I did drop "Joystick Madness" and "Poet's Haiku" and from what I've heard of the tape otherwise, this is a solid tape. So check it out and let us know what you think!

Felt 3 is really a tribute to Rosie Perez [w/ Cover]

Well..WFSL & the rest of the interwebz was wrong. Felt 3 is NOT a tribute to Sarah Palin. It is a tribute to D's, muh-effer, D's..Rosie Perez"..sorry, I had to. Here's the cover & a link for proof. Can't wait!

Nefarious! - "More Than Music" Mixtape

DOWNLOAD HERE

It's finally here! The very-much anticipated Nefarious! instrumental tape was accidentally leaked on another blog early (FAIL!) and so I've been given the green light to drop it early as well. "More Than Music" consists of some amazingly constructed beats by the Cosmic Souls Collection member. After you hear this, you'll know why they call him The Soul Dojo. Kid has skills and then some. Now peep this tape, it's short but it'll stay on repeat for a very long time - it did for me. Let us know what you think!

As a side note: Nef is WFSL AOTW starting Monday, so if you like this - stay tuned for a lot more!

Hollywood F.L.O.S.S. - "All My Love"

New FLOSS! Got this a couple days back but completely slipped my mind to drop it; really busy nowadays. But better late th...well, you know. This time he flips up the classic Led Zeppelin track of the same name. This kid is bringing fresh new hip-hop on a regular basis and it's all something that stays on repeat for days. His new tape is coming out soon and WFSL will be helping out with the project! Here's something straight outta that...

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

Nefarious! - Take My Love

Nefarious! is probably one of my favorite producers coming out of the underground right now, and this just gives you all the reasons why. This one right here is off of his upcoming realease (not a typo) "More Than Music"which comes out THIS Friday! I'm listening to the tape as I type this and trust me..it's heat! Nef is going to be AOTW next week, so if you like this and the tape, there's much more coming come Monday! And this is WFSL on an OFF week!

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

Canadian Hip-Hop: The Vicious Cycle Author [Wize Thoughts]

My newest of weekly articles at aboveGround Magazine. This week I discuss an article where K'naan talks about Canadian hip-hop. You can find that article here. Are we really inconsistent or is it just a result of our lack of fans? Maybe we're just making excuses as Canadian hip-hop artists. What do you think?

CLICK HERE TO READ IT

Taking the Week Off - Changes Coming!

If you follow me on Twitter [@Beatwize] then you already know that this week is going to be a break-week for WFSL. Things are getting busy for me and I just need a little time away from blogging to focus on work and some music (!) as well. However, I will be dropping one or two things a day to keep you guys kinda posted.

When I come back next week I'll be dropping another track off my 'Classical State of Mind' release and a few other little bits of info. As for your emails - don't worry! I'm checking them out still and I might even drop one or two of 'em for you all.

BUT. During this week I'll be making slight changes to the site. You've probably already noticed the new 3-column layout. This was only one of the many changes WFSL will be going through in this week. So don't call it a week off, call it a renovation week. We'll be back newer and improved!

Feevaleo - "S.T.S.O.T."

Here's a track from my boy Feev off his latest tape "Don't Sweat the Cool". Dude reminds me a bit of Mickey Factz with his flow/delivery. Give me a shout if you want more from 'leo and I'll drop some other tracks for everyone. But I think you probably will after hearing this. Really nice track right here, you guys should deff give it a listen.

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

CJ the Genesis - "Tomorrow"

Here's a WFSL exclusive for all of you guys feeling our current AOTW. CJ spits over "El Manana" by The Gorillaz on this one and goes hard over it. This is not on any projects or anything, just a courtesy track Genesis did for WFSL fans, so give it a listen! Tomorrow I'll be re-dropping CJ's latest mixtape and Sunday we'll have a wrap-up of the great week we've had with him. But keep in touch with dude, he's the future! Check out the track..

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

Quite Nyce - "Hello, My Name is Quite Nyce" Mixtape

DOWNLOAD HERE

Meet Quite Nyce, a rapper straight outta Massachusetts. If you're into the jazz/smooth hip-hop like me, you will absolutely love this. Quite is an everything man - lyrics, flow, delivery, beat choice - the works. I can't say anything but good things about this mixtape, so just cop it without hesitation. You'll hear a lot more from the dude on this blog soon, so keep your eyes open. He's Quite Nyce.

Major props to my people over at aboveGround Mag for pointing me to this!

Jay-Z - "Run This Town" (Feat. Rihanna & Kanye West) Video

Amazing video, amazing song. Jay really knows how to entertain, great work by everyone over at RocNation for this one. Check it out!

Backtrack: CJ the Genesis - "Spaceship" Mixtape

DOWNLOAD HERE | STREAM HERE

This is CJ's best mixtape in my eyes. I love the way he flow over these beats, and the best part is the fact that the beat choice itself is amazing. CJ really knows how to pick'em and spit it well too. If there's a mixtape you should hear from him, it should be this one. Give it a shot and let us know what you think!

CJ the Genesis: The Beginning [WFSL Interview]

CJ the Genesis is many things, a lot of them self-proclaimed. Not to say that the things he says aren't true, what he says is what he does. He's an intelligent, focused, hard-working individual who has nothing but a bright future. I usually wouldn't sugar-coat the background, but it's kind of hard not to. It didn't even feel like I was speaking with someone so young. Mature for his age, true to his roots, and eyes on the prize - Genesis can be described as all these and more. WFSL (http://beatwizemusic.blogspot.com) is proud to present another artist that makes the future of hip-hop a hell of a lot brighter.

Beatwize: Watup CJ! Before we start, hit us up with a quick introduction of yourself..
CJ the Genesis: What up Beatwize! Umm..To make a long intro short, I'm an up and coming artist out of the DMV who's trying to bring something new to the game! I rap, produce, a little singing here and there, and I'm very versatile. Thats about it, haha.

Beatwize: Versatile is right - you're 4 mixtapes in now. Do you feel like you've accomplished as much as you think you would have or did you expect more at this point in time?
CJ the Genesis: Honestly, I never thought that I'd have 4 mixtapes out within a year. Maybe 2 and a progressive third, but not 4! And you know, maybe its just my impatience but I did kinda expect more going for me at this point, but things are different now, so I'm trying to adjust for lack of a better word.

Beatwize: Good to hear you're ahead of schedule. You seem to like to switch things up a bit and try different things, so you obviously have numerous inspirations while writing. What are they and where do you inherit them?
CJ the Genesis: Good question! Well, I only really write about what I know and go through, and although its a cliche answer its true. The only time you'll hear me making a song about something that has nothing to do with me is when I'm telling a story, but I grab general inspirations from anything, whether its a TV show, video games, something my parents talked about, something dumb my dogs did outside lol ANYWHERE.

Beatwize: That imagination really shows in the tracks. Being an 18-year-old rapper who's getting decent fanbase must be something you're proud of. What do you expect for yourself in the next few years?
CJ the Genesis: Ahh being labeled 18 is gonna take some getting used to cause my birthday was on Sunday haha but within the next few years I expect to be doing some bigger shows and actually getting paid for it! I also wanna do more mixtapes of course, and then actually put out an album and work with people and all kinds of cool stuff like that. Im about to be a freshman in college (I actually move out tomorrow lol) and I wont be recording on campus, but I'm still going to produce and get my name out there more as a producer. Hopefully some opportunities (and money haha) open up during that time period.

Beatwize: Now, 'Genesis' means 'begining'. I'm assuming your name suggests the start of something?
CJ the Genesis: You know, you're actually the first one to just pick it up off the bat. Yes it does mean that. I am the 'Genesis' to a new era in hip hop. Stop comparing me people lol

Beatwize: That name struck me from the first time I heard it, so I had to find out, haha. What artists do you love to work with? What artists do you hope to work with in the future?
CJ the Genesis: I love to work with anybody with a creative mind. There are only a few specifics in mind such as M-Trey, Criss Chords, Kevin Abstract, The Rezon, Vulcan Vocab who share the same mindstate I have with this music. If I have a track with those 5, its gonna be good. No questions. As far as the future is concerned, I'd love to work with people I meet on campus this year (who are good haha) and some of the dream artists Id love to work with are people like Kanye, Nas, Common, Jay-Z, a lot of those people. But you know, I'm liking this new class of artists too and out of them I'd love to work with Mickey Factz, Asher, Cudi, Curren$y, XV, J. Cole, Big Sean and etcetera etcetera etcetera haha The list goes on with them.

Beatwize: A lot of good names on that list. Tell us what's currently on CJ's playlist.
CJ the Genesis: Pshhhhh...that XV "Everybody's Nobody", Big Sean's "U Know Big Sean Vol. 2" Pac Div "Church League Champions", Kanye's "Late Registration" SLAUGHTERHOUSE of course, and lately Ive been listening to some more Crystal Castles than I usually do haha More electro and techno stuff in general. I NEED that new Calvin Harris CD in my life ASAP lol

Beatwize: Again, great names. You just recently dropped "Yea...I'm A Nerd" and are already hard at work on your next EP. What switch-up can we expect on this project?
CJ the Genesis: Well, this EP is gonna be called, "EuPhoria" and what Im gonna do on that is make songs that make people feel good and euphoric in general. That was my main goal on "Yea, I'm A Nerd" because nostalgia brings a GREAT feeling to people. Artists these days make too many of these emo and depressing songs, and they dont really do too much good for their listeners (at times) Granted, Ive made my share of depressing songs, but whenever I do, I try to give it a better outlook, such as my song "Start Of Something New" which will be on the EP as well. Anyways, this will be happy music in general, and I'm sure that everyone that listens to it will get a good feeling out of it. I promise you that.

Beatwize: Interesting; any other projects other than yours that you'll be participating in?
CJ the Genesis: Me and a friend and producer 5th Element are working on a project titled, "Open Mic" which will comes out Lord knows when. I wouldve been done by now and it would've came out in September, but I had to get ready for that big move. Besides that, I'm only gonna be a production credit on artist's mixtapes. Not so many features without a mic on campus. Im gonna write like crazy up there and record when I get the time, but for now, its only production.

Beatwize: I'm definitely excited for all of that. Thanks for coming in! It was nice speaking with you.
CJ the Genesis: Haha anytime Beatwize!!!

Troy - "(We All Move) to the Beat" Mixtape

01) Intro
02) Mortal Thought - KRS-One
03) Purple Nostaljack - Camp-Lo
04) Work In Progress - Kev Brown
05) Sexual Healing - Marvin Gaye
06) How You Get A Record Deal - Big Daddy Kane
07) Like This - iLLiad
08) Game Over - J Dilla & Phat Kat
09) Justify My Thug - Jay-Z
10) Hey Nas - Nas
11) Always - Kev Brown
12) Spaceship - Nero
13) Nu Style - Nero
14) Effortless (Get The Job Done) - TreaZon
15) Radioactive - Large Pro
16) More Than You Know - De La Soul
17) Devotion - Illanova

DOWNLOAD HERE

Here's a remix tape by producer Troy of BoomBoxUnion. The thing I've always liked about this guy is his beats are always something different; not only amongst other producers, but even himself. He never drops two beats that sound too similar, it's always something fresh and original. On this mixtape we see that same Troy, bringing heat in his own way. If you're big on remixes then this the right project to listen to. Check it out and let us know what you think.

The Indie Mindstate: Make a Change [Wize Thoughts]

I'm going to be writing a weekly guest blog for my friends over at aboveGround Magazine called 'Wize Thoughts'. It'll be just my thoughts on hip-hop issues, music, etc. Some weeks it'll be an original article, some weeks I'll discuss another article, and other times I'll just rant and rave about something hip-hop related. This week I spoke about the "indie mindstate" on hip-hop music and how it isn't necessarily correct. Take a look..

CLICK HERE TO READ IT

Backtrack: CJ the Genesis - "World Premier" Mixtape

DOWNLOAD HERE | STREAM HERE

I heard this after all the other tapes and it was definitely stacked up with the rest of them. Take note that everything he does on this tape is over a DJ Premier beat (hence World Premier), but trust me the beats aren't the only thing that carries the tape. Genesis's ill lyrics along with his easing flow really gave proof of skill in this introduction. I think by this time everyone knew that CJ was something to look out for. Take a look and tell us what you think!

Apathy - "True Love" (Feat. Phonte)

A new track off of Apathy's upcoming album "Wanna Snuggle?". Great track, Ap never fails from the way it seems. The Connecticut rapper joins forces with Little Brother Phonte to drop off his first single to the world. Can't wait for the full LP, should be dope! Check this out for now...

DOWNLOAD HERE

14KT - "Nowalataz" LP

This is what happens when you wake up late. You miss out on an amazing release. Regardless, like I always say - better late than never right? Right.

14KT is a producer/rapper who I had heard of just a couple days back. I heard the single off this album from Nefarious!'s blog and I loved it. Why I didn't drop it is still a confusion in my head, but maybe I just forgot to drop it; although I'm pretty sure I did. But it is what it is, at least I have the album to share with my dear readers. Now check out this crazy album by the dude 14KT. Peep & enjoy!

DOWNLOAD HERE

Brother Ali - "Fresh Air"

New from Brother Ali off his upcoming album entitled "Us". So sick, I can't wait for his album; seems to never fail me. Rhymesayers is always dropping such amazing stuff, always impressive. Anyways, this is not a leak, so you can download it on iTunes by clicking here. Sample it below...


You can pre-order "Us" here and you can buy "Fresh Air Tour" tickets here.

K. Sparks - "Stolen"

A heartfelt and absolutely amazing, eye-opening track. This song is definitely something special, and also on an original and very important topic. K. Sparks speaks on child pornography and the issues some deal with for the rest of their lives because of abuse in their past. Trust me, listen to this if you listen to anything today.

DOWNLOAD HERE

Saukrates - "Ms. Yesterday" Video & Download

New from Toronto's own Saukrates. Such an ill track, this is definitely going to be on repeat for a minute. Great work, man! Keep it up! Video is below the download.

DOWNLOAD HERE

Wordspit - "Poet's Haiku"

My man Wordspit just dropped another single off his upcoming tape "The Coolest BBoi Stance". Some really good stuff, as always. I'm pretty excited for this drop, I smell something epic. It's coming soon, so stay tuned. A lot coming our way from Wordspit, including that video/single he dropped for us a little while back. If you're not excited yet, then you need to be. So peep the track yourself and tell me what you think!

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

Kid Cudi - "Man on the Moon: The End of the Day" Tracklist Released!

The tracklist to Cudi's much anticipated debut has been released today. I love how he broke it down into acts. Check it out below!

ACT 1: THE END OF THE DAY
1. In My Dreams (Cudder Anthem)
2. Soundtrack 2 My Life
3. Simple As…

ACT 2: RISE OF THE NIGHT TERRORS
4. Mr. Solo Dolo (Nightmare)
5. Heart of a Lion (KiD CuDi Theme Music)
6. My World ft. Billy Cravens

ACT 3: TAKING A TRIP
7. Day N Nite (Nightmare)
8. Sky Might Fall
9. Enter Galactic (Love Connection Part 1)

ACT 4: STUCK
10. Alive (Nightmare) ft. RATATAT
11. CuDi Zone
12. Make Her Say ft. Kanye West & Common
13. Pursuit of Happiness (Nightmare) ft. MGMT & RATATAT

ACT 5: A NEW BEGINNING
14. Hyyerrr ft. Chip Tha Ripper
15. Up, Up & Away (The Wake & Bake Song)

Artist of the Week: CJ the Genesis

Meet CJ the Genesis, a young rapper/producer coming out of Maryland. A unique flow, voice, and style make him not only an interesting listen, but also a very enjoyable one. He's four mixtapes in, all of which are different from each other. In his latest, and I believe biggest release, "Yea..I'm a Nerd", CJ uses beats sampling video game tunes and raps over them with ease. And that's just ONE of the many interesting things he's done.

The first time I'd heard him was on that mixtape. I knew he was something special, and by the second listen in I contacted him. I peeped another one of his mixtapes and by that time I grated his name into the AOTW upcoming list and tried to get him featured on here asap. Well, he's finally here and we're going to have a great week! As a side note: we also dropped his "Run This Town" remix with M-Trey as well!

Throughout his ATOW time, we'll be dropping all four of his mixtapes, one of which I had dropped before. Along with this, I'll be chilling with him for an interview and WFSL will even be dropping one (or more) never before heard song off his upcoming EP! Big things coming up this week, so stay tuned.

So here's the schedule for you all..
Monday: Introduction (this)
Tuesday: Mixtape Drop - World Domination
Wednesday: An Interview with CJ the Genesis & brand new track
Thursday: Mixtape Drop - Spaceship
Friday: Mixtape Drop - World Premier
Saturday: Mixtape Re-Drop - Yea..I'm a Nerd
Sunday: Wrap-up

Want more CJ the Genesis? Catch him on these sites..
Twitter: http://twitter.com/CJTheGenesis
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/cjdagenesis
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/CJ-The-Genesis/98734953302

Would you like to be featured as Artist of the Week? Get at me! -- beatwize@gmail.com

Cayoz - "For the Love" (Feat. Praverb)

My dude Praverb hit me with this a while back and it slipped my mind to post it up. Better late than never though! A dope track off of Cayoz's upcoming mixtape entitled "Mixed Vibes". Both these monsters spit over Little Brother's "We Got Now". Really great work, guys! Can't wait to listen to the tape! Check it out:

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

Hollywood FLOSS - "Art or Fi$cal Intelligence" Mixtape

DOWNLOAD HERE | STREAM HERE

Meet Hollywood FLOSS, a rapper coming out of Houston, Texas. I got this sent to my email yesterday morning and I listened to it a couple times and I was pretty impressed. Hollywood gives us an original flow along with great beats and a lyrical base that's undeniable. Very intelligently made, FLOSS drops us a few bombs about society and how we idolize ignorance and stupidty. A must-have mixtape, check it out!