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!

The Story Behind "Day & Nite"

It's funny how in the worst of times we always seem to have an artsy side of us that bursts through and makes us realize who we truly are. Almost like a light that's been waiting to get turned on and when everything is dark, that light finally has a time to shine. Happens to many great artists. One of these greats is Kid Cudi. His hit song "Day & Night" was made in this kind of environment and he decided to share his dark story behind everything we hear today. Check it out... [Side Note: "Man on the Moon: The End of the Day" comes out Sept. 15!]

Really Doe - "RPS (Rock, Paper, Scissors)"

Dope new Really Doe off his album "First Impressions" that comes out this Tuesday. I'm thinking this album is going to be a must-have considering all I've heard from this is good music so far. If you aren't convinced yet, this track will definitely help you. Check it out! Props to [1N|2C] & FSD for the find!

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

810 - "Supply & Demand" Mixtape

DOWNLOAD HERE

Allow me to introduce you to 810, a 19-year-old rapper from Baltimore. I received this tape a while back from the dude but I don't know what happened. Maybe I just forgot to drop it; regardless, I was listening to my iPhone last night and I randomly came across a track off his mixtape after a long time. Then I decided to listen to the rest of the tape. Dope, dope, dope. Did I mention dope? Realizing my stupidity, I woke up today morning and decided to drop it on the blog asap. 810 mixes lyrical goodness with intrumental heat, something that's very rare in today's hip-hop environment. You'll be seeing a lot more 810 in a little while, so keep your eyes open for that! But for now, here's some 'Supply & Demand' for your listening enjoyment. Let me know what you think!

The Undergodz - "Show & Prove" (Feat. Crooked I)

The Undergodz = Keith Murray & Canibus. That's right, the duo is dropping a collabo album together under that name. I couldn't stop smiling when I heard about this, such a dope idea. I love how so many artists are joining forces to do albums now, it makes things so much more interesting. And this duo? Too dope. Check out the track..

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

The Fray - "Heartless" Cover

Oh man. Absolutely amazing. I liked this band before, but now I think they could easily go in the riding as one my top-10 favorite rock bands. Check this out, I saw this like 10 times already..

Felt 3 is a Tribute to...Sarah Palin?

So this is Felt 3 post #2 in a row. What can I do? Things are getting exciting. Some people are speculating that the third Felt album is a tribute to Sarah Palin. We were told that in the image below, the left is the producer of the album (which was revealed as Aesop Rock last night) and on the right is the person who it is a tribute to. Now compare these pictures:

THE PRODUCER/TRIBUTE PICTURE VS PHOTO OF SARAH PALIN
VS

The riddle has been finally solved! FELT 3 is "A Tribute to Sarah Palin" and will be produced by Aesop Rock. Can't wait!

Felt - "Protagonists" + Producer = Aesop?

Felt dropped a track from their upcoming album "A Tribute to...". Still not solved about who it's a tribute to. BUT, listen close - MURS says "this time the drummer is Ace Rock". Ace Rock? Nah, AES Rock..as in AESOP Rock? Posssibly. It's very possible and it judging from this track, I wouldn't mind. Thoughts?

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

Swollen Members - "Red Dragon"

Long time since I heard something from these guys. I used to love them back in the day, glad to see they're back working hard. This is off their upcoming 2-CD album entitled "Armed to the Teeth" which drops October 13th of this year. It will have guest appearances from Talib Kweli, Tech N9NE, and Phil Tha Agony amongst others. Very excited for some more Canadian hip-hop! Check this out, it's really good!

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

SLik d - "Summer Vibes" Mixtape

DOWNLOAD HERE | STREAM HERE

So it's finally here! SLik d's newest mixtape entitled "Summer Vibes", a smooth & relaxing listen that'll have you playing it over and over. From track one till the end you'll feel the summer theme SLik is trying to make you feel and it'll feel like you're sitting outside on a hot day drinking up some cold iced tea. Here it is, finally - SLik d - "Summer Vibes" ..

Enjoy it, guys! And let us know what you think!

Amanda Diva - "Neon" (Feat. Johnny Polygon) Video

Possibly one of the most creative videos I've ever seen. And the track is bomb as well, Diva has some serious skills! Check it out!

SLik d: Dreams of Success [WFSL Interview]

So for the past few days on WFSL (http://beatwizemusic.blogspot.com), the readers have gotten to know SLik d's music and background pretty well. I'm sure a lot of you really like his style and are looking forward to his tape dropping tomorrow. But there's much more to SLik than the music. He's a young guy reaching for his dreams; someone who sees the struggle and takes it as enjoyment. A striving artist who won't stop until his dreams are fullfilled. In the music, D seems like a pretty cool dude; outside of the music he's pretty much the same. But enough of me talking, see what he is for yourself..

Beatwize: Hey, what's good SLik? Let's start off by introducing yourself to the readers..
SLik d: What up yo, I go by SLik d and I was born in Long Beach,then moved to Carson, California; then out to Las Vegas, Nevada were I now live. I been doing spittin' and beatboxin' since I was a little kid but started taking it really serious once I won my first freestyle battle freshman year at Carson High. Im a fan of the marijuana and proud of it.I think my music shows it a lot. Haha. But besides that, I'm just a guy with a lot of thoughts.

Beatwize: You've been working hard on that "Summer Vibes" tape. How does it feel to be finally done? What can we expect?
SLik d: It feels good to finally put out something for people to listen to. I think of of so many projects and start them but dont finish them, like most people do. But I was extra determined this time because im not a fan of procrastination. The tape is short and sweet so what I'm expecting are reactions to want more. Like eating half of a burger, haha.

Beatwize: Word, I can feel that. What were your main inspirations during the making of the mixtape?
SLik d: Summer man...everyone had memories during summer at least once. And I tryed to mention some of my moments within song.

Beatwize: Who helped you in the making of the tape? Are we going to see any guest appearances on it?
SLik d: Yes..There are plenty of features on this tape. Almost every track now that i think about it. Haha. I did that because during summer your not alone chillin, you're with homies and friends that create the good times with you.So I let my homies hop on the tape to make it even more legit.
Beatwize: That's an interesting concept. Who would you like to work with in the future - reality and dreams? Who is your favorite artist to work with currently?
SLik d: Seeing that I got a vision of what I want my next project to be, I would really like to work with new people. Elaquent is a main one, Bagir is my homie and he always throws heat my way. Many others but thats who im thinking of now. Oh and I cant forget Kanye, I know he has a beat thats perfect for me in his vault. I just need to reach out to him and find it. I really like working with my main man Nefarious! just because we have a good history together from when I started recording and if I ever find something wrong with the track, he will fix it with no problem making the track even more how I visioned it, making him a producer fasho creating a hit song (Ex:Summer Heat).

Beatwize: Where does your name come from?
SLik d: My name was made very randomly, haha. I was in San Pedro a few years back making dance videos to Chris Brown "Run It" and recording tracks with a computer eye camera with my nephew and a friend. When it came time to save the recordings, I needed a nickname. So we sat there untill "Slick D" was created and from there on I told myself I will make this name famous.

Beatwize: What made you want to pursue music professionally? And what made you fall into hip-hop?
SLik d: I really wanted to do this professionally when I realized its a possibility and there is money that can come my way for just making good music. I dont know about you, but I want to grow up to wake up and have fun everyday as my life long job. Then I can die happy like everyone else who is living their goals. And I fell into hip hop when I moved out here to Vegas and a homie of mine now added me on MySpace. At the time i had no tracks out and I was listening to his music everyday thinking this could be me on the remix. Soon after I stumbled across more artists on his top and found Audio Ink. I downloaded "The Madbhonism Vol.1" and after that i told myself this where I belong. But it doesnt stop me from going into different genres. I'm a guy of good music that appreciates most art forms.

Beatwize: You're still pretty young, do you think that holds you back from the industry a bit more or is it just a small obstacle in the bigger picture?
SLik d: Funny thing is im turning 18 on the 14th and people still say i look 16. Haha. It doesnt phase me at all. If Bow Wow can do it then why in the world cant I. If anything age shouldnt matter now because im out of high school basically becoming a man. So I should be viewed as one,or at least a young man. Music is timeless, so dont trip about my age.

Beatwize: Good to hear you don't let it phase you. Any other projects you'll be working on? As in a main role or guest role?
SLik d: As of now, I have no projects going on; but I got a view of what i want my next project to be. I would speak about it but I like to do it first then let people know about it so I'm not letting anyone down. Actions over words, man. But I do want to feature on a lot of tracks for now while I'm still in the zone. But these people have to be of a equal or greater value of me. Not sayin I wont collab with people who just started, but I would just have to see if they want it as much as me first. I'm trying to be on everyones Ipods and Zunes so hopefully people understand my reasons.

Beatwize: What can we expect from SLik d in the next few years? What are your goals for the future?
SLik d: Album. Full tracks of nothing but slikity goodness. Pressed and released by a strong label or supporter. More shows. And hopefully my own blogspot and short clips in HD. I like to make little movies. They inspire me so i might as well give back to the people.

Beatwize: Thanks and good luck to you in the future. I'm sure we'll be hearing a lot more from you soon enough!
SLik d: Thanks, Beatwize! Good look on the interview and everyone reading this make sure to check out other posts on this page. Good shit. Lets make it happen. Haha!

Slum Village - "Actin' Normal" Video

R.I.P. Baatin..

Jay Smooth on Joe Budden/Raekwon Incident

So if you're following me on Twitter and saw my little one-post rant, then you know why I haven't posted up anything on this incident before. To sum it up - I just don't care. But when Jay Smooth talks, I care. His view on this is fresh, original, and intelligent. I've been wanting to give my view on this for a while, but I just can't say it like him; so I'll just let him speak. So hear him out! IllDoc!

Jabee - "Must Be Nice" Mixtape

The much-awaited for Jabee mixtape is finally here! Includes features from Blu, XV, El Prez, Oddisee, L.E.G.A.C.Y., Mac Lethal, Theory Hazit, aDDLib, and so many more. Even has must-hear producers like Green Lantern, 9th Wonder, and Black Spade. I can't wait to pop this into my car, I know for a fact that this tape is going to be bananas. Check out the Jabee track we dropped a couple days back from SoundSociety's upcoming mixtape "The Wake Up Call". If you like that, then you'll most probably like this. And you'll most probably like that. So check this out! Tracklist is below the cover.

DOWNLOAD HERE

Tracklist:
1.A blessing (Produced by Joe Sway)
2. LITTLEearth ft. L.E.G.A.C.Y and OBone (Produced by Kadence)
3.Go Tell em (Produced by Hannibal King)
4. Dumb Musica ft. Black Spade (Produced by Black Spade)
5. Money ft. EL Prez (Produced by Savio is Dead)
6.Thats Good ft. Oddisee & Jumakae (Produced by Rob Viktum)
7. Don’t Forget about me (Produced by D/Will)
8. Car pool ft. Jumakae (Produced by Ronnie Harris)
9.I am (Produced by Darkness)
10. Funky She (Produced by Moral one)
11. Sunny Day ft. Picnic Tyme (Produced by Picnic Tyme)
12.1983 ft. Chris McCain (produced by scootbeatz)
13. Virtues ft. Theory Hazit & aDDLib (Prod. by Theory Hazit)
14. Big Bad Wolf ft. Johnny Polygon (Prod. by DJ Green Lantern)
15. Anywhere ft. LMNO & Dawg Wonder (Prod. by Darkness)
16. Triumph Hanni fresh remix ft. Blu (Prod. by Hannibal King)
17. Taxi Ride ft. Chris McCain (prod. by Scootbeatz)
18. Laced to the heart (Prod. by Sabastian OH!)
19. Boombox (Prod. by DJ alibi)
20. Live Like a dream ft. Mac Lethal (Prod by Rob Viktum)
21. Hip Hop Prayer ft. Chuy (prod. by Darkness)
22.Vip in heaven ft. XV (Prod. by 9th Wonder)
23. One
24. Evaporation (Prod. Mes the Jive Turkey)
Bonus: Story II tell (Produced by DJ SemaJ)

Kid Cudi - "Man on the Moon: The End of the Day" Album Covers

Kid Cudi finally released the (very cool) album covers for his debut album. They're looking pretty epic, def deff. The first is the standard version and the second is the deluxe version. Which one are you feeling more?

Wordspit - "Joystick Madness" Video & Download

Allow me to introduce you to Wordspit, an emcee from Brooklyn. This dude is really good! Check out his myspace and I'm sure you'll think the same. Here's a single off his "The Coolest BBOI Stance". Peep!

DOWNLOAD HERE

Crown City Rockers - "The Day After Forever" Album Preview

Crown City Rockers' new album drops Sept. 29th. They were kind enough to hook us up with a quick preview of what's to come on this album. I'm pretty excited about this, they've never seemed to let me down on their stuff; this should definitely be something I'll be listening to for a long period of time. So, check it out...a preview of "The Day After Forever"!


Spotted by Dmack from SoundSociety, props!

MURS + ? + Slug = Felt 3: A Tribute to..?

Finally MURS and Slug are back for the third installment as Felt. But apparently this time they're coming back as a trio. Who that person is, we don't know. From their Facebook page we've been told he's a producer. Now to add to the speculation, they haven't mentioned who's going to be Tributed this time around. The first album was a tribute to Christina Ricci and the second was Lisa Bonet.

Felt will be dropping clues throughout the week on their Facebook to let us guess who both the producer and the tribute are, but I'd like to see what you think. So..who are these two going to be? Here's the YouTube video that kinda sparked it all..

D-Sisive - "Four"

Really dope new D-Sisive. Here's some background..

"Alternative hip-hop recording artist, D-Sisive, has just released 'Four': the first installment in a serious of pre-release singles in anticipation of his November LP, Jonestown. 'Four' features the instrumental 'Alley Spying', hijacked from Slim Twig's critically acclaimed album 'Contempt!'. Watch out for D-Sisive's forthcoming digital only release entitled 'Jonestown', available on November 18th, 2009 - The 31st anniversary of the Jonestown Massacre."

Sounds cool! Check it out!

DOWNLOAD/STREAM

Greenspan - "When the Sky Turns Green" Mixtape

Two mixtapes in one day? Then we got Jabee tomorrow and SLik d the next day, and who knows who else. Anyways, I almost forgot about this one. Greenspan dropped a pretty dope track a while back and I posted it on the blog. Now we have a full-fledged mixtape from the dude and I'm definitely looking foward to hearing it. Check it out, I'm just about to!

DOWNLOAD HERE