Peace, Love & HipHop - Flamingo Cantina - December 26, 2009

From the Happy Holidays department... Celebrate some Peace, Love & HipHop @ Flamingo Cantina tonight, Dec 26th!

Mojoe ft Bavu Blakes - Strange Revival

From the life is fantastically strange department... Check out the latest music video by Mojoe featuring Bavu Blakes called Strange Revival!

The GUUD - Headhunters - December 18, 2009

From the get up, get out and help somebody department... Join The GUUD @ Headhunters tonight, Dec. 18th for some holiday GUUDness with Public Offenders and Gidon the Almighty!

More info:

ADMISSION IS 4 CANNED GOODS OR 1 SMALL TOY (A STUFFED ANIMAL OR A ACTION FIGURE OR SOMETHING) . WE WANT TO HELP OUT THE AREA KIDS AND THE HOMELESS THIS SEASON. SO IF YOU ARE FORTUNATE TO BE ABLE TO GIVE IN THIS ECONOMY PLEASE DO AND COME ON OUT AND ENJOY A HELL OF A SHOW.

Reality Bytes: The LOEG'Z

From the Austin City Lofts department... This episode of Reality Bytes gives us an intimate look at one of Austin's up and coming hip hop groups, The League of Extraordinary G'z! The group is a combination of Dred Skott, Southbound and Da C.O.D. We're anticipating great things from these guys!

Check out their latest single Loftin' N Austin...





Props to Crew 54 on another great Reality Bytes show!

Dubb Sicks - Scoot Inn - December 4, 2009

From the let it snow, let it snow, let it snow department... Dubb Sicks @ Scoot Inn tonight, Dec 4th, for his CD release party. C-Rayz Walz will be headlining!

The biggest selling point is that the show will be indoors!

Durrough - Aces Lounge - December 3, 2009

From the nipple salute department... Durrough @ Aces Lounge tonight, Dec 3rd! The supporting cast include Kevin Jack, Drastik, Young Regg, Tory (2Reel Ent), Slim Rob, KJ Hines, DJ Hella Yella and DJ Dontizl.





More info:

Dorwin Demarcus Dorrough (born October 28, 1986), better know by his stage name Dorrough, is an American rapper. Dorrough was born and raised in Dallas, Texas. He attended Lancaster High School in Lancaster, Texas, where he was captain of the basketball team. He attends Prairie View A&M University.[1][2] Dorrough started his musical career giving out mixtapes at basketball games at his high school. His first single, "Walk That Walk," reached #28 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and #12 on the Hot Rap Tracks chart. His second single, "Ice Cream Paint Job," was his first to reach the Billboard Hot 100,[3] reaching #27.[4] His debut album, Dorrough Music, was released on E1 Music August 4, 2009 and the album peaked at #36 on the Billboard 200[5], #6 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums[6], and #2 on the Top Rap Albums[7].

SEA Nomination Party - Firehouse Lounge - December 2, 2009

From the snow? department... SEA Nomination Party @ Firehouse Lounge tonight, Dec. 2nd!





More info:

Welcome to the hottest awards show in the South! Headquartered in Nashville, TN, the Southern Entertainment Awards is here to represent for those responsible for contributing to the growth of southern music. We highlight the accomplishments of the top DJ's, Producers, Recording Artists, Labels, Websites, Retail Stores, Models and Clothing companies in the SOUTH. Our awards show is designed to give credit to those left out by other award shows, and also to shine light on independent artists, but the south as a whole.

Giveaway: Skullcandy Headphones

From the as promised department... Knuckle Rumbler is giving away a pair of Skullcandy headphones to the first person to email me their Del tha Funkee Homosapien show receipt minus any confidential information by 5pm Tuesday, Dec 1st! Dude that is awesome! Check out the show and sport some new headphones!

Get your tix here! Then send your receipt to me: emptyonline@gmail.com

More show details here!

Del tha Funkee Homosapien - Aces Lounge - December 1, 2009

From the giveaway coming soon department... Knuckle Rumbler peeped us to the Del tha Funkee Homosapien show @ Aces Lounge on Tuesday, Dec 1st!

In true Knuckle Rumbler fashion, some heavy hitters will be out for this show: Bukue One, Kevin Jack, Zeale, Drastik.Cod, KJ Hines, DJ Digg and Crew54!

Get your tix here!

Check back soon for a special giveaway!





More info:

Teren Delvon Jones (born August 12, 1972 in Oakland, California),[1] better known as Del tha Funkee Homosapien, is a hip hop artist.

Cousin of renowned rapper Ice Cube, Del began his career writing lyrics for Cube's backing band, Da Lench Mob.[2] In 1991, with the help of Ice Cube, Del released his first solo album, I Wish My Brother George Was Here,[2] at the age of 18. The album was a commercial success, largely due to the popularity of the hit single, "Mistadobalina". Ultimately Del, who was not pleased with the limited musical range of the album, took matters into his own hands, and severed his production-artist relationship with Ice Cube for his next album, No Need for Alarm. Del is considered a member of the Native Tongues Posse according to the myspace page.

No Need for Alarm also saw the introduction of the famous Oakland clique Hieroglyphics,[2] whose original members included the widely acclaimed Souls of Mischief (Opio, A-Plus, Phesto and Tajai) Casual, Pep Love, Del, and producer Domino. No Need for Alarm was a bold move on Del's part as it allowed him to develop, display, and solidify his unique style as an MC, and also helped to expose both the regional Oakland sound of hip hop, as well as the freestyle based, "golden era-97" style of hip hop being expanded at the time.

Austin Poetry Slam - The Independent - November 25, 2009

From the visiting the rents in htown department... Tonight's Austin Poetry Slam includes The Cipher @ The Independent!

Open signup tonight, 12 poets on the mic, $100 in cash prizes. Your guest host this evening is BIG POPPA E and DJ Slipp brings the musical madness in between the poems.

Tonight's special guests are THE CIPHER, Austin's hip hop project. This is a crew started right here in ATX - consisting of high school students - that will absolutely put the hurt on anything you hear on hip hop radio today. Amazing lyrics, stellar performances. Don't miss.

AUSTIN POETRY SLAM WEDNESDAYS
AT THE INDEPENDENT
500 San Marcos St, 78702
Corner of E. 5th and San Marcos St.
8 pm showtime *****
$5 cover, all ages welcome
www.austinindependent.com

Hot 93.3 FM Lets Go Of Staff

From the internet killed the radio department... Deborah Sengupta Stith over at the Statesman is reporting that Hot 93.3 FM is letting go all of their on-air staff. This is definitely a shame for Hot 93.3 FM and the Austin community as a whole. I can't help but think that this is a reflection of the Hip-Hop market here in Austin. Realistically, at the end of the day, a business like Hot 93.3 FM evaluates its products and services and has to decide if they can continue and be profitable or if they need to offer different products and services. I definitely feel there is a market here for Hip-Hop; we just have to work through this and figure out how to tap into it. Here's yet another wake up call to the community, support your local Austin Hip-Hop, whether it's the radio stations, musicians, clothing stores, dancers, graffiti artists, everything...

I hope all at Hot 93.3 FM all the best in their future endeavors.

Busdriver - Red 7 - November 15, 2009

From the HEB needs wider aisles department... Graham Williams wrote to tell us about a last minute FREE show by Busdriver @ Red 7 midnight tonight!





More info:

Busdriver (born Regan John Farquhar February 12, 1978)[1][2] is a rapper from Los Angeles currently signed to Epitaph Records.

Born in Los Angeles, he was introduced to hip hop at an early age, his father Ralph Farquhar being the screenwriter for the film Krush Groove,[3] one of the earliest films focusing on hip hop culture. Farquhar began rapping at age 9, and by 13 he had released his first album, as part of the group 4/29.[4] At the age of 15, he attended open-mic nights at the Good Life Cafe in 1993. A regular at the Project Blowed open mic during the mid-1990s, he would be introduced to fellow underground artists, leading him to being a guest on at least 20 singles.[citation needed] He first recorded in 1995 with Chillin Villain Empire, and was featured on Fat Jack's Cater to the DJ in 1999.

Mickey Avalon - Emo's - November 13, 2009

From the one in the morning department... Mickey Avalon @ Emo's tonight, Nov 13th!





More info:

Mickey Avalon (born Yeshe Perl on December 3, 1975) is an American rapper from Hollywood, California. His debut self-titled solo album was released Nov. 7, 2006 on Interscope/Shoot to Kill Records in association with MySpace Records. Avalon blends dark, lewd, and humorous hooks with heavy beats. Frequent topics of Avalon's songs are his experiences with substance abuse.

Avalon's family upbringing was tumultuous; both he and his parents used drugs. [1] Avalon's paternal grandparents are Holocaust survivors who endured lasting injuries from their imprisonment at Auschwitz. By his early 20s, Avalon had married, had a daughter, and moved to Portland, Oregon.[2]

Upon moving to Los Angeles, he was befriended by ex-MTV VJ Simon Rex (aka Dirt Nasty) who encouraged Avalon to rap and collaborated with him. The two began passing out demos to Hollywood clubs and soon developed a following among fans of the Los Angeles nightclub scene. Mickey also attended college at Webster University in St. Louis, MO for a brief time before he signed with Interscope Records. Mickey has a unique rhyming style and raps mostly about his experiences on the streets, with drugs, and prostitution. He was a member of the Dyslexic Speedreaders, a rap group which also includes rappers Dirt Nasty, Andre Legacy, and Beardo. Dirt Nasty, Beardo, and Andre Legacy all appear in Avalon's recent music video, "Fuckin' 'Em All".

Jay-Z - Frank Erwin Center - November 10, 2009

From the throw your diamonds in the sky department... Jay-Z @ Frank Erwin Center tomorrow night, Nov 10th!





More info:

Shawn Corey Carter (born December 4, 1969),[1] better known by his stage name, Jay-Z is an American hip hop artist and businessman. He is one of the most financially successful hip hop artists and entrepreneurs in America,[2] having a net worth of over $150 million,[3] selling over 30 million copies of his albums in the United States alone and receiving several Grammy Awards for his musical work.[4]

Jay-Z co-owns The 40/40 Club and the NBA's New Jersey Nets and is also the creator of the clothing line Rocawear. He is the former CEO of Def Jam Recordings[5], one of the three founders of Roc-A-Fella Records and recently, the founder of his new venture Roc Nation. He is also the current holder for the record of most number one albums by a solo artist on the Billboard 200.[6]

Along with his financial and musical success, Jay-Z is known for being involved in the feud between him and fellow New York rapper Nas, which was eventually settled in 2005.[7] He married singer Beyoncé Knowles on April 4, 2008.[8]

Bavu & Tifani Blake's Austin Farewell - Aces Lounge - November 8, 2009

From the see you soon department... Bavu Blakes has been a been a force in the scene here in Austin and it's a shame that he'll be moving away. Austin Hip-Hop Scene wishes the Blake's family all the best and success in the future. So let's all give Bavu & Tifani Blakes a warm Austin farewell @ Aces Lounge tonight!

Fun Fun Fun Fest - Waterloo Park - November 7-8, 2009

From the ... department... Graham Williams hit us up to tell us that there's hip hop all over Fun Fun Fun Fest @ Waterloo Park this weekend!

Just to name a few...

The Pharcyde
Cool Kids
Buraka Som Sistema (bad ass hip hop from portugal)
Kid Sister
MC Chris
DJ Nu-mark (jurassic 5)
GZA (wu tang) doing liquid swords beginning to end
plus tons more local djs and hip hop acts





More info:

Fun Fun Fun Fest made its first appearance on a cold Austin Friday evening at Waterloo Park in 2006. It was a unique approach to festival booking...filling stages with what is bubbling from the underground, what sounds great, and what is making an impact, regardless of what Pollstar or the mainstream media said was cool. What started out as a show for a few touring acts and local favorites became a movement, and a festival that fans and bands alike realized needed to be experienced year after year.

This is a festival created by people in the music scene, that are in it everyday, and are driven by the DIY attitude and work ethic found in the music they love. Broken out into genres, FFF provides unique experiences in the punk/hardcore, indie rock, hip hop/DJ, and comedy scenes. At FFF, you will see 4 core stages of some of the most progressive music and comedy in the scene today, hosted on Red River in the heart of downtown Austin. At this fest, show goers get more for less. They get to catch artists close up and personal before they explode, they get to see some of their favorite bands of the past reunite, and they get to discover music that they have never even heard that they'll love — all at less than $1 per act.

In it’s fourth year, Fun Fun Fun Fest is the most relaxed, laid back and (yet) progressive festival in the market place today. It is a true urban event in the middle of downtown Austin and most importantly it’s a fest WE in the scene would want to go to, without all of the filler that tends to show up at the corporate music carnivals around the world these days. Fun Fun Fun Fest: the fest before the fest...where you go to see what’s about to happen as opposed to what's already been happenin.

Thanks for all of those that have supported us for so long. We are in this business because we love independent music, we love these bands, we love this scene, and we love connecting all of it with as many fans as possible. We look forward to seeing all of you there. We will be the ones with the Danzig shirts on.

Chamillionaire - La Zona Rosa - November 6, 2009

From the will you play ball with Chamillionaire department... Chamillionaire @ La Zona Rosa tomorrow, Nov 6th!

If you wanna hoop with Chamillionaire tomorrow hit him up on Twitter. He's looking for some players!

http://twitter.com/Chamillionaire





More info:

Hakeem Seriki (born November 28, 1979),[1] better known by his stage name Chamillionaire, is a Grammy Award winning American rapper and singer and CEO of Chamillitary Entertainment and a founder and original member of The Color Changin' Click, He began his career independently with local releases in 2003, including collaboration album Get Ya Mind Correct with fellow Houston rapper Paul Wall. He signed to Universal Records in 2005 and released The Sound of Revenge under Universal. It included hit singles "Turn It Up" and the number-one, Grammy-winning hit "Ridin'". Ultimate Victory followed in 2007.

Chamillionaire was born Hakeem Seriki on November 28, 1979 in Washington D.C. and later moved to Houston, Texas[1] when he was 4. His father is a Muslim Nigerian immigrant and his mother is an African American Christian.[2] He attended Eisenhower High School and transferred to Jersey Village High School to play in its basketball program, which he believed to be better than that of the former school.[3] [4]

Rakim - Emo's - November 4, 2009

From the Google Music department... Rakim @ Emo's tomorrow, Nov 4th! Graced on stage with Rhymefest.





More info:

Rakim (pronounced rah-KIM) (full name Rakim Allah, born William Michael Griffin Jr. on January 28, 1968 in,Queens, New York)[1] is an American rapper and pioneer of the musical genre of hip hop, known as one half of the duo Eric B. & Rakim. He is consistently cited as one of the most influential and skilled MCs of all time due to his exceptional flow and complex lyrical craftsmanship.[1][2][3][4]

He is the nephew of American R&B singer and actress Ruth Brown. He grew up in Queens, New York, and became involved in the New York hip hop scene at a young age. Eric B brought him to Marley Marl’s house to record "Eric B. is President." At the time Griffin was fresh out of high school and on his way to college, but he decided to forgo higher education and instead chose to record with Eric B.[1]. Leshaun and Rakim made a few hits and mix tapes together.

When Griffin turned 16, he joined The Nation of Gods and Earths (also known as the 5 Percent Nation) and changed his name to Rakim Allah.[5]

Tech N9ne - Austin Music Hall - November 4, 2009

From the Where the Wild Things Are department... Tech N9ne @ Austin Music Hall on Nov 4th! And man there's a bunch of artists... Krizz Kaliko, Kutt Calhoun, Big Scoob, Slaughterhouse, Stevie Stone, Glasses Malone, Dirty Wormz, and C.O.D.





More info:

Aaron Dontez Yates (born November 8, 1971 in Kansas City, Missouri) better known by his stage name Tech N9ne is an American rapper. His musical career has spanned 24 years.

Tech N9ne is known for his wide range of collaborations with other well-known artists. In 1999, Tech N9ne was included on the track (and accompanying video) "The Anthem" from Sway & King Tech, two radio personalities based in California.

Early in his career, Tech N9ne was a member of a group called "NNUTT HOWZE", which he pays tribute to in many of his lyrics by saying "Six, six, triple eight, forty six, ninety nine, three" (6688846993), which spells out NNUTT HOWZE on the touch pad numbers of a telephone. However, the group disbanded when they were dropped from their label, Perspective Records. Additionally, he saw glimpses of success as a member of the 57th Street Rogue Dog Villians - also a Kansas City-based group - with their single "Let's Get Fucked Up".[1]

Video: Southbound feat. Greezo - That Ain't Right

From the post trick or treat department... Austin's Hip Hop duo, Southbound along with Greezo hit us up with some realness in their latest video, That Ain't Right! The video is directed by OG of Luxury Mindz who's work is always of the highest quality. Check it out and let us know what you think!

www.ThatAintRightVideo.com

Table Manners Crew - Plush - October 31, 2009

From the I'm swine flu for Halloween department... Happy Halloween everyone! Table Manners Crew @ Plush tonight, Oct 31st!

Be safe!

Brother Ali - Emo's - October 28, 2009

From the swamped with work department...





More info:

Ali Newman (born Jason Newman in 1977), better known by the stage name Brother Ali, is an American hip hop artist.

Brother Ali was born in Madison, WI, and spent his early childhood moving from city to city in the midwest (mostly in Michigan). Ali’s family settled in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1992. He attended Cooper High School in New Hope, MN. It was in Minneapolis that Ali converted to Islam and was given the name Ali (he was born Jason Newman). Brother Ali now lives in South Minneapolis, where he continues to record. He has a son, Faheem, from his first marriage, and remarried in 2008.

The 54 Reality Show Presents: Reality Bytes

From the Dookie department... Crew 54 is starting a new spin off of their 54 Reality Show called Reality Bites. Props and good job guys!

Here is a description about what this new venture is all about...

"In the effort to make Dookie Vizion Productions and The 54 Reality Show a full scale established media outlet we bring the newest spin off, Reality Bytes. We take the interviews that you've come to love out of the weekly video blog, and give you a chance to get a bit more in these rappers business haha."

http://the54realityshow.blogspot.com/2009/10/54-reality-show-presents-reality-btyes.html

Dead Prez - Emo's - October 20, 2009

From the back from San Fran department... Dead Prez @ Emo's on Tuesday, Oct 20th! And featuring C-Rayz Walz, Zeale, Tavana and Kid Slyce!




More info:

Dead Prez is an American underground political hip hop duo composed of stic.man and M-1. They are known for their confrontational style combined with socialist and pan-Africanist lyrics. These lyrics tend to focus on revolution, veganism, institutional racism, critical pedagogy, police, capitalism, education, prison systems, religion, activism against governmental repression, and corporate control over the media, especially hip-hop record labels. Dead Prez made their stance clear on their first album, declaring on the lead song, "I'm a African" that the group is "somewhere between N.W.A. and P.E."

Bavu Blakes Brings The Flows To The iPhone With The 08IsSoGreat iPhone App

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Austin, TX - October 12, 2009 - Bavu Blakes and Austin Hip-Hop Scene introduce the only iPhone application that allows music fans to listen to the Bavu Blakes 08IsSoGreat Flow Series from the palm of their hands. Starting the first week in 2008, Bavu delivered a new flow each Monday of the week and posted it to 08IsSoGreat.com. In total, Blakes produced 52 flows that will have your head bobbing and body dancing to a sound so smooth, you'll be groovin' for hours. The application, "08IsSoGreat", enables music lovers to enjoy the great body of work created by Bavu Blakes.

"Caught Bavu Blakes at a club in Austin, TX, a few weekends ago and was completely in awe at his talent," says kt512. "So this app was a no brainer. Imagine for a sec... 52 songs in '08. Definitely no easy task. Great app and idea to promote artists. If you love hip-hop you'll definitely love this app."

Download the 08IsSoGreat iPhone app from iTunes:
http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=323508391&mt=8&s=143519

###

About Bavu Blakes
Dubbed "One of Texas' brightest new stars" by legendary rapper The D.O.C., Bavu Blakes is the ultimate wordsmith by both definitions. This is an artist and writer so unique that he's the only man named Bavu -- meaning 'force' in Kiswahili -- in American history!

Equally adept at writing, performing and freestyling, Mr. Blakes offers both clarity and hype. While words and rhymes are clearly where his talents shine, he places equal importance on beats. By defining tracks in terms of mood, rhythm and melody, he makes the music sound better. Creating a sense of cohesion between the lyrics and beats, Mr. Blakes's music reveals this approach through clever, thought-provoking lyrics over diverse beats guaranteed to entice any listener's ear.

For more information on Bavu Blakes, visit
http://www.myspace.com/bavu

About Austin Hip-Hop Scene
Austin Hip-Hop Scene is the premiere website to find out about Austin Hip-Hop music. The website features local Austin Hip-Hop artists, music, shows, art, reviews and more.

For more information on Austin Hip-Hop Scene, visit
http://www.austinhiphopscene.com

About Pellucid Solutions, LLC
Pellucid Solutions, LLC is a software company specializing in helping music fans and artists forge connections through software.

For more information Pellucid Solutions, LLC, visit
http://www.pellucidsolutions.com

Music: DJ Protege - Remix Pack Vol. 6

From the Reading Rainbow department... DJ Protege puts out another Remix Pack Vol. 6! More free music to have jammin' in your iPods! Listen to it below and leave some comments letting him know what you think!

Butterfly in the sky, I can go twice as high
Take a look, it's in a book - Reading Rainbow.

I can go anywhere!
Friends to know and ways to grow - Reading Rainbow.

I can be anything!
Take a look, it's in a book - Reading Rainbow.

Reading Rainbow, Reading Rainbow, Reading Rainbow, Reading Rainbow!

Circuits & Encore (DJ Protege Rubato Remix)


Crazy Tequila (DJ Protege Remix)


I got a feeeling (DJ Protege Dance Floor Remix)


Like A Prayer (DJ Protege 09 Remix)


Reading Rainbow (DJ Protege Remix)


You can also download here!

Devin the Dude - Club Deville - October 11, 2009

From the well enough department... Devin the Dude @ Club Deville on Oct 11th!

-----

After a full week of battling with the flu, I think I'm finally well enough to step out of the house and not be a threat to society. It's been a long week.





More info:

Devin Copeland, better known by his stage name, Devin the Dude, is a Houston hip hop artist. He is best known for his unique rapping style and his long career signed to Rap-A-Lot Records as well as his 2002 song Lacville '79.

Copeland started out as a member of the Odd Squad, later known as the Coughee Brothaz, a group of rappers signed to Rap-A-Lot Records. The label is notable for being the home of hip-hop artists such as Geto Boys, Scarface, and Too Much Trouble. Copeland moved on to become part of Scarface's Facemob, before going solo in 1998.[1] Copeland has released five solo albums: The Dude (1998), Just Tryin' ta Live (2002), To tha X-Treme (2004), Waitin' to Inhale (2007), and Landing Gear (2008). He also made a number of guest appearances, including on Dr. Dre's "Fuck You" in 1999, and De La Soul's "Baby Phat" in 2001.[1]

In 2008, he ended his 15 year relationship with Houston based Rap-A-Lot Records because the label failed to renew his contract.[2] Later that year, he signed with indie label Razor & Tie.[3]

Ghostface Killah - Emo's - October 11, 2009

From the Nobel Prize department... Ghostface Killah @ Emo's on Oct 11th!

-----

I always believed Obama would eventually be awarded the Nobel Prize. Question is, does he deserve it this early?





More info:

Dennis Coles (born May 9, 1970),[1] better known by his stage name Ghostface Killah, is an American rapper and member of the Wu-Tang Clan. After the group achieved breakthrough success in the aftermath of Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) , the members went on to pursue solo careers to varying levels of success. Ghostface Killah debuted his solo-career with Ironman, which was well received by music critics. He would continue his career, creating additional award-winning albums over the following years such as Supreme Clientele, Fishscale, and The Big Doe Rehab.

Ghostface Killah is a Muslim [2] Ghostface Killah is critically acclaimed[3][4] for his loud, fast-paced flow,[5] and his stream-of-consciousness narratives containing cryptic slang and non-sequiturs.[5][6]

Ghostface Killah took his name from one of the characters in the 1979 kung fu film Mystery of Chessboxing.[5]

Mayer Hawthorne - Red 7 - October 10, 2009

From the I'm sick of the flu department... Mayer Hawthorne @ Red 7 on Oct 10th with special guests Buff1 and 14KT + Mojoe!

-----

Austin, let me tell you, the flu is real! This years strain is bad so be careful out there.





More info:

Mayer Hawthorne (born Andrew Mayer Cohen[1][2] in 1978 or 1979[4]) is a singer, producer, songwriter, arranger, audio engineer, DJ, rapper and multi-instrumentalist[1][3][4] based in Los Angeles, California, USA[1]. The stage name "Mayer Hawthorne" is a combination of Cohen's real middle name (Mayer) and the name of the street he grew up on in Michigan (Hawthorne Rd).[2] "Mayer Hawthorne and The County" is a name Cohen often uses when performing or recording as Mayer Hawthorne with other artists. In Cohen's words, "The County" is basically anyone who plays an instrument or sings on his album. It’s also his band when he performs live.[3] Cohen also performs and records Hip Hop music under the stage name "Haircut", sometimes as part of the groups "Now On" & Athletic Mic League.[3]

Video: Bavu Blakes - Smiley Faces

From the playing in ACL Fest mud fun department... Check out Bavu Blakes new music for Smiley Faces featuring Pikahsso! One of my favorite songs, I'm glad to see it put to video.

Leave comments and tell Bavu what you think!

Austin City Limits Festival 2009 - Hip Hop

From the brrrr department... ACL Fest is once again upon us and this time the weather will be down right nippy.

Friday, October 2
John Legend - http://2009.aclfestival.com/band/john-legend
Bassnectar - http://2009.aclfestival.com/band/bassnectar
Raphael Saadiq - http://2009.aclfestival.com/band/raphael-saadiq
The Knux - http://2009.aclfestival.com/band/the-knux
K'Naan - http://2009.aclfestival.com/band/knaan

Saturday, October 3
Mos Def - http://2009.aclfestival.com/band/mos-def/setlist

Sunday, October 4
Girl Talk - http://2009.aclfestival.com/band/girl-talk/setlist
Mike Posner - http://2009.aclfestival.com/band/mike-posner

Did I miss any?

Crew 54 - Beauty Bar - September 28, 2009

From the paying attention department... Crew 54, The GUUD and KB the Boo Bonic @ Beauty Bar tonight, Sept 28th!

Nasty's Lucky 13th Anniversary - Nasty's - September 28, 2009

From the Lucky 13 department... Wow! Can't believe it's been 13 years. Props to DJ Mel for keeping our Mondays hip hopping all these years!

Celebrate with DJ Mel @ Nasty's tomorrow, Monday, Sept 28th!

More info:

Man, I've been doing this weekly since the summer of 1996. Through the years, I've partnered up with some great dj's and I've seen the music, people & attitudes change. Those changes aside, one thing remains the same - this night has always been about having the best time ever. ON A MONDAY NIGHT.

Before the internet, blogs and when skills still mattered, we were doing this shit and doing it large. In it's infancy, no one in Texas (especially in Austin) was really delivering a multi genre weekly. I've watched it start off slow, blow up like crazy, plateau, slow down and blow up again. In that small dive we do our thing at, I've had homies take their future wives on their first date, seen dudes propose to their ladies, mad kids having their first dj experience & couples literally sexing on the dancefloor. Even my past love life is marked significantly with moments from this night...

I pride myself in knowing that this night is for the people - it has nothing to do with cliques, class or race. I thank all the folks that come out week in and week out. Their support is steadfast. Monday is a hard sell. Which makes me appreciate those folks even more.

So with all that said, we are finally throwing our first anniversary party. I've never been one to throw events like this, but I think this night & our people deserve it. It's only fitting that we bring my friend DJ Eleven into town to do his thing. Playing alongside the dude will be a pleasure.

If you're around these parts, come out and support. It's gonna be a celebration!

Qwel & Maker - Club Deville - September 27, 2009

From the needs a break department... The "So Be It" Tour starring Qwel & Maker @ Club Deville tonight, Sept 27th with MSG Crew, Boomset, Sidewalk Alumni and DJ Notion!





More info:

Qwel is an underground rapper, originally from Chicago, Illinois. Qwel is also the co-founder of an underground rap crew called Typical Cats[1], with MC's Denizen Kane, and Qwazaar. Qwel has been featured on interviews and performances on UndergroundHipHop.com. Qwel has had collaboration projects with Maker, Jackson Jones, Meaty Ogre, Mike Gao, Silence, and Robust. His current label is Galapagos4 which was founded partially by Offwhyte.

Review: COD Ova the Stove Volume 3 Cut Throat Records 2009 by Harvey Canal

In hip-hop, there are those fine lines where keeping it real slips into ignorant folly and white rappers can only hope to hold their own next to their black counterparts. Well, South Austin’s COD aka Cash on Delivery is a multi-cultural group poised to obliterate those pre-conceived notions as they advance their own brand of hood rap to new heights of sophistication.

Within city limits, it’s no surprise that COD’s S-Dot won lyricist of the year at 2009’s Austin Hip-Hop Awards show. Cleverly sidestepping the rhythmic cliché’s typically put forth by the brunt of Caucasoid rhymers, S-Dot bobs and weaves his way through lyrical gauntlets fit for only the most skilled of rappers. Along with fellow COD members Mr. Greezo, Tukdagat and Lil J, S-Dot leaves combustible flames in his wake throughout the group’s latest release titled Ova the Stove Volume 3.

Primarily fueled by original production from the likes of Swollendrumz, and Mike Biggs, Ova the Stove Volume 3 is less a run-of-the-mill freestyle compilation and more of a fully realized album that just happens to be mixed by DJ Rapid Ric. Whereas songs including “Wheel Spin” and “In the Kitchen” stick close to formulas indicative of Dirty South origins, others such as “Colleyweed”, “Get Low” and “So High” sound more like compositions RZA would throw together drawing samples from Spaghetti Western soundtracks.

Do overblown topics of drug sales and blatant consumerism permeate this project? Yes, they do. But COD not only expands the limits of the usual thematic repertoire, but somehow even manages to make the same-o sound interesting. COD show staples “Countdown to the $” and “Get Money Season” are not only overt and infectious, but inspiring to boot. There’s just this certain enthusiasm that COD lets bleed through every breath of their music that just can’t be denied.

Review written by: Harvey Canal

Building on the Capitol Steps by Scott Kelly

Around 9:00PM on any given Tuesday night, an open group of MC’s redefine free speech on the steps of the Capitol building. Unabridged, unabashed and unhinged, the Capitol City Cypher is all about rhyme skills, networking and perfecting the craft in a truly Austin environment.

The Cypher is a place where any MC, established or not, can come test his mettle. The atmosphere is more supportive than many close-circuit cyphers that may be less open to outsiders – here, anyone is welcome and the only measure of a man is his mouth.

“It’s not really about battling,” cypher founder Greg Levin says, “It’s about building. Guys who can’t afford studio time and want to network, or who want to work on their freestyles, they can come here and really get better at what they do.”

Most hip hop heads consider freestyling a crucial part of one’s mic skills and an integral part of b-boy culture, something that Greg has been fascinated by since hip hop exploded in the early 80’s. From Long Island to NOLA and finally to Austin, Greg has seen many hip hop scenes flourish and is drawn to Austin’s unique style.

“The cypher is definitely a democracy. There are no rules or regulations, we just started coming here [to the Capitol] and more and more rappers started showing up. Then we started getting crowds,” Greg says.

Even though Austin is considered a music mecca, hip hop is often not given its place on the plate. That doesn’t stop these MC’s from infusing their craft with the same free-spirited energy that has made quality music synonymous with Austin.

“It’s something that I know can be changed,” standout artist and cypher regular Doc Deuce says. “There’s a lot of talent in Austin and someone will blow up soon.”

Austin has struggled to find a name and place for itself among the crowded local music scene, but the building they rap in front of isn’t the only piece of Renaissance Revival situated downtown. Stylistically the rhyming is coming from West Coast conscious hip hop more than the Dirty South that the region is known for, although each rapper is cultivating his own unique blend.

It’s a place people can come and see some of their favorite local MC’s in a smaller setting, really doing their thing among peers. Touring emcees will drop on through and producers come by to feed some new beats to the hungry artists. The group is welcoming to bystanders and can’t help but draw a crowd.

“The Cypher is a beautiful thing,” Doc Deuce says, “I’d like to invite you all to the Capitol steps so you can see what we’re really building here.”

Article credits. Scott Kelly (scottmk3030@gmail.com)
Photo credits. Greg Broseus (ouphotographer@yahoo.com)

Front Row Music Photo Exhibition - The 5th Gallery - September 19, 2009

From the UT vs TX Tech craziness department... "Front Row" Music Photo Exhibition @ The 5th Gallery starting Sept 19th!

More info:

"FRONT ROW" will be an art photography show celebrating live music and music festivals through the eyes of photographers.

The show will open on Saturday September 19th and will extend through October 15th.

“FRONT ROW” will be hosted by THE FIFTH GALLERY at 305 E.5th Street in Downtown Austin, TX.

We are pleased to announce a few of the photographers that will be showcasing their amazing work.

OG of Luxury Mindz http://www.ogphotographer.com
Kris Krug http://www.flickr.com/photos/kk/collections/72157600005049762/
Marc Zuazua http://www.flickr.com/photos/mofoz-visualz/
John Gomi http://www.flickr.com/photos/johngomi/
Erica Rodriguez http://www.flickr.com/photos/airica
Moriah Powers http://www.flickr.com/vstheworld
John Pesina http://www.flickr.com/photos/johnpesina/

Rashann Ahmad - Red 7 - September 17, 2009

From the Kanye is a _____ department... Rashann Ahmad of Crown City Rockers @ Red 7 on Sept 17th with some Austin heavy weights, Phranchyze, Storm Shadow, MSG Crew, Cooley Fly, DJ Notion and DJ Bullet.





More info:

Crown City Rockers are a five-member hip hop band from Oakland, California, by way of Boston, Massachusetts and Pasadena. Formerly known as Mission:, they play old school inflected hip hop music with live instrumentation (similar to other hip hop groups like: Gym Class Heroes, The Roots, N.E.R.D, and Stetsasonic), citing influences such as: A Tribe Called Quest, The Roots, KRS-One and De La Soul.

In July of 2009 the band announced the release date of its new album, The Day After Forever. It is set for release on September 29, 2009, in time for the band's appearance at the Treasure Island Music Festival in October.

Bavu Blakes - Flamingo Cantina - September 12, 2009

From the don't mess with my health plan department... Bavu Blakes, Crew54, Cali Zack & N/A, Rapid Ric & Kid Slyce @ Flamingo Cantina on Sept 12th!

Do you think eating at the Waffle House is healthy?!



More info:

Dubbed "One of Texas' brightest new stars" by legendary rapper The D.O.C., Bavu Blakes is the ultimate wordsmith by both definitions. This is an artist and writer so unique that he's the only man named Bavu -- meaning 'force' in Kiswahili -- in American history!

Equally adept at writing, performing and freestyling, Mr. Blakes offers both clarity and hype. While words and rhymes are clearly where his talents shine, he places equal importance on beats. By defining tracks in terms of mood, rhythm and melody, he makes the music sound better. Creating a sense of cohesion between the lyrics and beats, Mr. Blakes's music reveals this approach through clever, thought-provoking lyrics over diverse beats guaranteed to entice any listener's ear.

Music: The League of Extraordinary G's - Loftin-N-Austin

From the Labor Day rehab department... The League of Extraordinary G's is a group from Austin consisting of members from the groups Da C.O.D., Dred Skott and Southbound. Check out and download their new single!

Loftin-N-Austin


Download here!

The Austin Chronicle: This Time Just the Girls by Audra Schroeder

From the all over town department... You must have seen them all over, at your favorite restaurants, coffee shops, everywhere they carry The Austin Chronicle. The front cover and feature story puts a spotlight on the ladies of Austin Hip-Hop by Audra Schroeder!

Read the full article here!

WildStyle Wednesday - Lucky Lounge - September 2, 2009

From the hump day, fun day department... WildStyle Wednesdays hosted by Tee Double @ Lucky Lounge tomorrow, Sept 2nd!

Invincible - Red 7 - September 3, 2009

From the Monday's department... AustinSurreal.com presents! Invincible (Detroit, MI), League of Extraordinary G'z (Da COD, Dred Skott, Lowkey of Southbound) (ATX), Perseph1 (Houston, TX), Blacklisted Individuals (ATX), Crew 54 (Killeen, TX) and DJ Crop Diggie (ATX) @ Red 7 on Sept 3rd, 9pm, $7 at the door!




More info:

"One of the most talented emcees I've ever heard black or white, male or female..."
- Talib Kweli

"One of the best-written Hip Hop – scratch that – best-written albums to come about in some time"
- Okayplayer.com

"Invincible is one part emcee, three parts revolutionary, but the recipe is all Hip Hop."
- Shook Magazine

It is truly rare to find an artist like Invincible. Her spitfire wordplay has gotten her acclaim from Hip Hop fans all across the world, while her active involvement in progressive social change has taken her music beyond entertainment, and towards actualizing the change she wishes to see. Repping Detroit, MI, many are already familiar with her work with Waajeed and the Platinum Pied Pipers, Finale, the all-female ANOMOLIES crew, Black Star, and many others. Dubbed by XXL Magazine as "every A&Rs worst nightmare" for rejecting major label deals and general industry politrix, Invincible started her own record label, EMERGENCE, self-releasing her long-awaited full length LP, ShapeShifters, June, 2008.

MSG - Spider House Cafe - August 29, 2009

From the getting my hair did department MSG "The Giants" CD Release Party @ Spider House Cafe tonight, Aug 29th! The show starts at 10pm! With art and some great local artists this should be a great show! Can't wait.

Devin the Dude - Aces Lounge - August 27, 2009

From the tease is over it's raining department... Devin the Dude @ Aces Lounge on Aug 27th! Kevin Jack, KJ Hines, Sore Losers and Table Manners Crew also strut their stuff.

----- From the guys at Texas NORML -----

TX NORML is a smaller chapter of a national organization for the reform of marijuana laws (basically we're trying to get the legislature to reduce the penalties associated with marijuana convictions and overall, trying to get the stuff legalized).

Texas NORML will have a booth at the event this Thursday. PLUS if you want to go and contact us directly for tickets, Texas NORML will get a 20% donation from those ticket sales!! So, please if you like hip-hop and want to see a badass show while also helping to support Texas NORML, then just let me know!

Think about this; if just 50 of our supporters get tickets for the Devin the Dude show on Thursday, Texas NORML will get a $200 donation!!! So, if you want to get tix for Devin the Dude, just let me know by either e-mail or phone, and we'll see you there!

josh@texasnorml.org
512-585-3846





More info:

Devin Copeland, better known by his stage name, Devin the Dude, is a Houston hip hop artist. He is best known for his unique rapping style and his long career signed to Rap-A-Lot Records as well as his 2002 song Lacville '79.

Copeland started out as a member of the Odd Squad, later known as the Coughee Brothaz, a group of rappers signed to Rap-A-Lot Records. The label is notable for being the home of hip-hop artists such as Geto Boys, Scarface, and Too Much Trouble. Copeland moved on to become part of Scarface's Facemob, before going solo in 1998.[1] Copeland has released five solo albums: The Dude (1998), Just Tryin' ta Live (2002), To tha X-Treme (2004), Waitin' to Inhale (2007), and Landing Gear (2008). He also made a number of guest appearances, including on Dr. Dre's "Fuck You" in 1999, and De La Soul's "Baby Phat" in 2001.[1]

In 2008, he ended his 15 year relationship with Houston based Rap-A-Lot Records because the label failed to renew his contract.[2] Later that year, he signed with indie label Razor & Tie.[3]