Kanye West has had the sneaker world on edge since the release of his first collaboration with Nike, the Nike Air Yeezy.
The first colorways were released in 2009, and since then the speculation has been high about a second coming. So far we've got nothing, until last month when clips of the Nike Air Yeezy 2 Zen Grey Colorway (below) hit the net, sending sneaker heads into a frenzy. Now Kanye's best friend Don Chas shared images of the black and pink colorway (above) via his Tumblr.
They are rumored to arrive early next year, but I'm beginning to feel like they are calling "wolf" again. Hey, can we get an actual release date? If I'm going to stand outside for 24 hours (and I will) I need to prep my talents early.
Rihanna had an early Christmas present for her fans - dropping the video for "You Da One" online. Video is mostly black-and-white + This song is from Rihanna's sixth studio album Talk That Talk (2011) ...Rihanna - ♫
Just came back from watching that New Year’s Eve movie where Ludacris played as a police officer. Got to love Luda on the big screen! Now back to the point, Ludacris and Meek Mill drop a visual to their “Say It To My Face” track off that 1.21 Gigawatts mixtape.
There are always fans out there that go the extra mile to prove their love and commitment for their favorite artist but when Drake and I quote, said “Tat my F*ckin name on you so I know it’s real” on his “Free Spirit” track, I am almost certain people wouldn’t take it literally.
In recent news, a fan took a picture of herself with Drizzy’s name tattooed on her forehead and Power 106′s Mando Fresko caught up with Drake to discuss the matter.
The funny thing is, I didn’t know who Drake was. I figured it was her hood or some shit, not some goof nugget R&B dude…I guess I feel bad that this dumbass got the name of the softest motherfucker in hip-hop tattooed on her forehead. But what makes that any less valid of a tattoo to her? I lost a little sleep over it that first night, wondering if I wanted to be known as the asshole who tattooed “DRAKE” on some crackhead’s forehead. None of the face tattoos I had done prior to this got any publicity, so I was a little surprised that this one took off like it did.
Listen: Chamillionaire, Hurricane and Gator Mane jump on a remake of the Rap-A-Lot class. You can find this track featured on the 25th Anniversary Box set of special for Rap-A-Lot 2 disk box set which is now available. This 2 disk box set contains remixes of classic material and a DVD in addition to another CD of remakes featuring the likes of Lil Wayne, Ludacris, Birdman, Twista, Chamillionaire & many more.
I highly recommend picking up your very own copy -> here.
One of the world’s most elite cars recently became a canvas for The Media Merchants, who produced an exclusive audio-visual projection mapping event centered around the Lamborghini Reventon. The result is a visual trip without moving, as the viewer witnesses the car transform before their very eyes. From textures to colors, this is a visceral experience. See for yourself below.
Wu-Tang Clan’s The Abbot has teamed up with Charisma Apps for the release of the “RZA’s World” app. The application offers an array of functions ranging from a multilevel 3D chess game, to “Soundtrack to Your Life” where RZA offers original beats and words of wisdom on various life situations. In addition, two more components are included – “What’s News” highlighting any relevant news on the man himself as well as The Vault that sells never-before-seen exclusive content. Above, you can check out a first look at the making Of the iOS app which is available now through iTunes.
Diggy drops a visual to his very catchy “Do It Like You” track featuring Jeremih. Video directed by PHIL. Stay tuned for Diggy’s new album. The kids a hit maker!
Fabolous announced this mixtape about a month ago, but there is still a chance that this tape will drop in the next few weeks. Until then, check out the artwork
Tyga touched down at Shade45, on the the Sway In The Morning show, and cleared up some Twitter gossip and performs his current singles ‘Still Got It’ and ‘Rack City’. Careless World on shelves January 24th, 2012.
Tyga's Careless World album pushed back to the 24th of January 2012. If anything this will fuel a bigger fire for his hits like “Rack City” and “Still Got It”.
Jay-Z and Kanye West’s ‘N***as In Paris’, notably known as the track that they play repetitively on their tour, definitely is loved by many gaining them some traction on the Billboard Hot 100 this week, jumping them from the 15th spot to the 8th. This marks a milestone for both the Watch The Throne duo and for Jay-Z, making him the rapper with the most songs in the Top 10 in history beating artists Lil Wayne and Ludacris current title of 17 tracks each.
Rap-Up got the opportunity to sit down with T-Pain and talk about his new album rEVOLVEr, how it is differs from his previous projects and his T-Wayne collaborative project.
T-Pain confirms to Rap-Up that we will not be getting a T-Wayne joint album anytime in the future as Lil Wayne lost interest in the project.
“When [Wayne] got into his litte trouble, that was right at the peak of when we was like, ‘OK, let’s go. Let’s do this now.’ He finally had time, then he went to jail. Things happen and I’m pretty sure he’s over the whole idea now. I don’t even be bringing it up to him no more. I’m pretty sure he’s way past that right now. He’s doing big things.”
French Montana, Juicy J & Project Pat are preparing a joint album release entitled, Cocaine Mafia, this December 20th, via Coke Boys and Evil Empire. Peek the track list and feature list after the jump.
1. Cocaine Mafia Intro 2. Catch Ya Later 3. You Need Haters 4. Do It 5. All She Want is Money 6. Helicopter 7. Alright 8. Is You Kiddin Me 9. Self Made (Feat. Akon) 10. Weed & Hennessy 11. Im Gutta Brah 12. If It Come Down To It 13. Money, Weed Blow 14. Choppa Choppa Down 15. Drop That 16. Full of Everything 17. Morning Paper 18. Straight Cash (Cocaine Mafia Remix) (Bonus Track)
Before hitting the a milli mark with his Carter III and now Carter IV albums and before becoming one of the hottest artists in the hiphop game, Lil Wayne did do his fair share of grinding and released hit after hit. For today’s throwback song, we thought it would be great to pay tribute to Lil Wayne featuring Big Tymers, “Tha Block Is Hot”. Back in the day, I know this track was banging in my car.
What do you guys think of Lil Wayne back then versus today? Sold out? Matured? Exploring new music? You tell us!
Last night, Snoop Dogg and Wiz Khalifa’s ‘Mac & Devin Go To High School’ tour took off at NYC’s Terminal 5. MissInfo captured some awesome footage of Wiz performing his verse on T-Pain’s “5 O’Clock”. Pre-order Mac & Devin Go To High School here.
I knew it was only a matter of time before Nicki Minaj received her own barbie doll. The animated rap diva now has her own limited edition doll.
Can you say #Winning?
Starting next Wednesday, a one-of-a-kind Nicki Minaj Barbie created by the makers of the brand, Mattel (don't get it twisted) will be auctioned off on CharityBuzz.com starting at a bid of $1,000 until Dec. 19. All proceeds will go to Project Angel Food, which provides meals for men, women and children affected by HIV/AIDS.
#Dopeness
I wonder how many of her barbz and Kens from #TeamNick are going to bid on this unique doll?
Here's another segment of our style rundown, where your favorite celebrities are rated on just how fashionable they are in these streets! Let's see How J. Lo, Gabrielle Union, Melanie Fiona and LaLa Anthony measured up.
J Lo was absolutely booty-ful over in Peru while shooting scenes for her new TV show entitled “Q’Viva: The Chosen”.
In a body hugging yellow mini dress and nude Christian Louboutin platform sandals, she definitely made the grade.
#POW
Gabrielle Union was spotted in Miami this weekend looking pretty colorful. In this retro-ish dress, I think Gabby was making an attempt to color block, but....
Melanie Fiona has become quite the fashion plate lately and this weekend was no different. She showed up at the same event in a light printed dress and a killer pair of green heels.
#FLY
And LaLa Anthony proved that "big hair don't care" with big bangs and a purple cocktail dress. She always captures the moment.
Young Dro leaves behind the Ferrari and Lamborghini and reps the Maserati for his latest visuals. Track is off his latest mixtape Drocabulary available for download Here
I have to give it to Bow Wow, he has been on the grind, making records, making videos and doing his thing as a recent member of the YMCMB camp. Watch as Bow Wow and Busta Rhymes take the time to find the perfect beat and drop a few bars.
The 54th annual Grammy Awards is just around the corner, set to air on Febuary 12th but last night, the nominations were revealed. Kanye West leads the pack with 7 nominations followed by Adele and Bruno Mars with 6 nominations each. Lil Wayne nabs 5 nominations while Drake, Rihanna and Nicki Minaj earn 4 nominations each. Read the list after the cut.
Record Of The Year Rolling In The Deep – Adele Holocene – Bon Iver Grenade – Bruno Mars The Cave – Mumford & Sons Firework – Katy Perry
Album Of The Year 21 – Adele Wasting Light – Foo Fighters Born This Way – Lady Gaga Doo-Wops & Hooligans – Bruno Mars Loud – Rihanna
Song Of The Year All Of The Lights – Kanye West The Cave – Mumford & Sons Grenade – Bruno Mars Holocene – Bon Iver Rolling In The Deep – Adele
Best New Artist Band Perry Bon Iver J. Cole Nicki Minaj Skrillex
Best Rap Performance Look At Me Now – Chris Brown, Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes Otis – Jay-Z & Kanye West The Show Goes On – Lupe Fiasco Moment 4 Life – Nicki Minaj & Drake Black And Yellow – Wiz Khalifa
Best Rap/Sung Collaboration Party – Beyoncé & André 3000 I’m On One – DJ Khaled, Drake, Rick Ross & Lil Wayne I Need A Doctor – Dr. Dre, Eminem & Skylar Grey What’s My Name? – Rihanna & Drake Motivation – Kelly Rowland & Lil Wayne All Of The Lights – Kanye West, Rihanna, Kid Cudi & Fergie
Best Rap Song All Of The Lights – Kanye West, Rihanna, Kid Cudi & Fergie Black And Yellow – Wiz Khalifa I Need A Doctor – Dr. Dre, Eminem & Skylar Grey Look At Me Now – Chris Brown, Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes Otis – Jay-Z & Kanye West The Show Goes On – Lupe Fiasco
Best Rap Album Watch The Throne – Jay-Z & Kanye West Tha Carter IV – Lil Wayne Lasers – Lupe Fiasco Pink Friday – Nicki Minaj My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy – Kanye West
Best R&B Performance Far Away – Marsha Ambrosius Pieces Of Me – Ledisi Not My Daddy – Kelly Price & Stokley Is This Love – Corinne Bailey Rae You Are – Charlie Wilson
Best R&B Song Far Away – Marsha Ambrosius Fool For You – Cee Lo Green & Melanie Fiona Not My Daddy – Kelly Price & Stokley Pieces Of Me – Ledisi You Are – Charlie Wilson
Best R&B Album F.A.M.E. – Chris Brown Second Chance – El DeBarge Love Letter – R. Kelly Pieces Of Me – Ledisi Kelly – Kelly Price
TONE TRUMP EXCLUSIVE W/ MIKEY T THE MOVIE STAR PT. 3 SPEAKING ON 50 CENT & G-UNIT AS WELL AS TOUCHING ON THE PHILLY HIP HOP SCENE LOOK FORWARD TO DROPPING HIS UPCOMING MIXTAPE "THE NEW FRESH PRINCE" DROPPING JAN 18TH.
Seemingly out of the blue, Birdman announces Busta Rhymes officially signed to Cash Money Records on the 16-11-2011. This means more Busta in more Young Money joints, win, win!
The new freestyle from the Justin Bieber, this time he hits up Hot 97 and does his thang over Gang Starr’s ‘DWYCK’. Oh, and he goes in hard, again! Wow.
The makers of CÎROC Ultra Premium present “Bull Jumping” as the latest installment of their Perfectly Smooth campaign. Directed by Dave Meyers, this 15-second clip displays Sean “Diddy” Combs jumping over a bull in perfectly smooth fashion. Man, you really gotta love Diddy and his marketing strategies. Check out this video and let me know what you all think!
Eminem & Yelawolf will be on the cover of Vibe’s December 2011/January 2012 issue. As Vibe puts it, “In our exclusive interview, the posterboys of colorless hip-hop opened up about their views on race, past issues with substance abuse, similarities and differences.” The issue hits news stands December 6th, check out some of the excerpts after the cut. Eminem & Yelawolf Poking Fun at Their Race: Eminem, what advice do you offer, if any, on being scrutinized for being a white rapper. Do you guys ever talk about race in that way? Eminem: We make jokes about it, but I don’t think we talk about it in depth. As I was listening to his music, I am not even thinking about any of that shit. It’s just the music. That’s one of the things that’s great about it. I’m not even thinking about it when I hear the music. Yelawolf: We do poke fun of it because it’s funny. Like, he calls me White Dog. Oh, you called him that on the BET Awards Cypher. I didn’t realize it was an ongoing joke?
EM: Yeah, or Beige Sheep. [Laughs] YW: Cracker Nuts. Whatever, I think it’s kinda unspoken. EM: We deal with it enough as it is. So now, let’s make music. YW: Let’s make great records. At the end of the day, that’s all there is to do. Eminem & Yelawolf Talk About Their Past & Using Drugs:
You mentioned getting yourself right. Are you completely clean these days as far as alcohol and drugs? EM: Except for the heroin I shot up this morning. Except for that, I’m clean. [Laughs]
While you’re clean, Yelawolf here smokes weed and— Yelawolf: No, I don’t.
I hear that in your music a lot. YW: I started smoking weed at 11. By 12, I was smoking dust. Thirteen, acid, Freon, special k, mushrooms; 16 years old, I was selling X pills at school. Not even because I was a good dope boy, but because I was a scumbag. It was called chocolate chip, and it had heroin in it. I used to take that shit and go to class. I went so heavy into drugs that I had a bad trip one time that lasted for months.
Ya man, that’s king Weezy so bow down. Carter’s is gracing the cover of the October/November issue of VIBE. Check out some excerpts of his cover story: VIBE: You say competition is for the “old guys,” but it sounds like you’re going at Jay-Z with that line, “I got your baby money/Kidnap your bitch, get that how-much-you-love-your-lady money.” Are we looking at it the wrong way? LIL WAYNE: I know for a fact, music is about perception. You can’t do anything but perceive what you hear. If I know that for a fact, I can never be upset about someone’s reaction to it. I’m not gonna say I don’t know what will happen before I say it [on record]. I do know what will happen. I am aware of it. It is what it is. VIBE: You mentioned how humbled you were at the success of “She Will.” Drake, who wrote and performs the song’s chorus, has now become a platinum star in his own right. Do you look at the guy and say, “Wow, I helped create a monster, I have to stay on my toes”? LIL WAYNE: I don’t look at it like that. Drake is my artist. If he wasn’t my artist, then yeah maybe. But that’s my artist. He’s not [just] a friend. We’re more than friends. It’s business. It would be impossible for it to be a competition. I mean, I’m the guy’s boss.
You ever see an artist and say to yourself, "She could definitely be a model!'"
I say it all the time and you know, I'm all about multiple streams of income. Being an artist in this time an age is no longer about your vocal abilities. Nowadays, it's all about a host of other elements: beauty, style, choreography, performance. They all combine to the make an amazing artist.
And for some, beauty is their main ticket.
Here's a list of ladies whose modeling careers can kick in to full time gigs if their first well ever dries up.
5. Rihanna
Although she's already attained rock star status, the girl knows how to take an amazing picture! She's easy on the eyes, too. The first time I met her I was literally paralyzed for three seconds. I looked like a bumbling idiot, but quickly snapped out of it.
Whenever she's ready, the modeling world will gladly accept her application.
4.Ciara
Let's face it, this well is almost dry. I mean...if all else fails (and she needs to act quickly!), Ciara can definitely take those talents to the nearest cover of Smooth. Dress her up and she'd rock any high-fashion cover. She's so versatile. CiCi, this might not be a bad idea.
3. Kim Kardashian Lord knows Kim Kardashian doesn't have a title as is. Is she an actress? A model? A socialite? *Sighs*
She's definitely the biggest reality star around, and if that job ever gives her a pink slip--like most of her men seem to do--she can always take a job in front of the camera. She's absolutely gorgeous.
Amber might be the biggest no-brainer on this countdown. I'd just like Amber not to ever talk again, and just take pictures. If she could walk around with cue cards expressing her feelings and just flash them when she needs to communicate, life would be so meaningful.
I don't even care what kind of pictures, turn yourself into a picture dictionary, and my life would be complete.
Cassie seems to be the only one who gets the memo, as she's been showing up all over the place in ad campaigns and fashion spreads.
*High Five*
She's absolutely beautiful and was actually a full-time model before she started *ahem* singing. Back to Option B, please!
This is a special year for Nas, who has a few anniversaries to celebrate including the release of his first verse ever. The Queensbridge poet, who’s gearing up for the release of his 10th solo album,Life Is Good, helped to pioneer shock rap with his timeless breakout verse on 1991’s “Live at the Barbeque,” with lines like “When I was 12, I went to hell for snuffing Jesus.” With that in mind, XXLrecruited a new controversial MC, Odd Future’s frontman Tyler, the Creator, who’s a longtime Nas fan, to interview the veteran MC for the November issue’s cover story. Who would have guessed the two rappers would have hit it off so well. Throughout an in-dept interesting conversation that lasted over an hour-and-a-half, Nas and Tyler touched on a variety of topics including: music, religion, family, decision making, drugs, the Internet, and even Star Wars. But it all started with Tyler telling Nas, which of the rap vet’s CDs he likes best. “God’s Son is my favorite album by you,” Tyler said. “And my second is probably Street’s Disciple,” he continued. “Get the fuck outta here,” Nas responded. Awkward and quirky exchanges aside, the discussion quickly picked up with the 20-year-old Tyler asking Nas for advice. “You, Em, Jay, Snoop, like, you guys all started when you was exactly my age,” Tyler said. “The fact that you guys are still here makes me just always think, like, Fuck, could I?” “Oh, you definitely can,” Nas replied. “Someone like you is, you’re interesting, for a lot of reasons. So someone like you, you can’t wait to see what’s next.” And the topics continued to get deeper as the conversation went on. “Are you, like—this question might catch you off guard, but I ask myself this—like, when you wake up, like, are you happy,” Tyler asked. “Like, are you satisfied how everything turned out?”
“Dawg, I was naming my album Life Is Good because of how happy I am about how happy things have turned out,” Nas answered. “Sometimes I may wake up and wish my kids were living with me. That’s the only thing, you know what I mean? Our loved ones that are not around no more, like my mom. That’s the only thing. But other than that, everything is great, even when I’m alone. Even when there’s no one around.” Along with the massive story on Nas—which includes a story on the Queens rapper reflecting on the 20-year, 15-year, 10-year and 5-year anniversary of his respective milestone releases, “Live at the Barbeque”, It Was Written, Stillmatic and Hip Hop Is Dead. XXL’s November issue also has an interview with the undisputed Queen of Hip-Hop Soul Mary J. Blige where 20 different MCs including Rick Ross, Young Jeezy, Ludacris, Wiz Khalifa and DMX, got to ask the R&B legend anything they wanted. In addition, the forthcoming issue includes a roundtable discussion with Maino and a handful of the industry heavyhitters, for the Brooklyn MC to ask advice on the eve of the release of his sophomore album, The Day After Tomorrow. XXL’s November issue also has features with 2 Chainz, Yelawolf and Styles P, a review of Wale’s first LP for Maybach Music, Ambition, and much, much more. Be sure to pick up XXL’s November issue, hitting newsstands nationwide on October 25. —XXL Staff
Drake’s singing ability opposed to his rapping talents, and Weezy tacks on an additional verse. Drake’s sophomore album is set to release November 14. Following yesterday’s announcement that his upcoming sophomore album, Take Care, has been finished, Drake delivers this new single, “The Real Her,” which finds him sharing the microphone with Lil Wayne.
Off his upcoming Fear Of God 2: Let Us Pray project, dropping November 8. Pusha T lets loose the flamboyant track “What Dreams Are Made Of.” Honoring the launch of his new website, In accordance with the song’s title, the Virginia native is celebrating the hustling way of life over a fierce instrumental. Check it out below.
Drake continues the promotional run for his sophomore album Take Care in style as he reveals his new single “Headlines.” Frequent collaborators Boi-1da and Noah “40” Shebib lay down a bouncy beat that accompany Drizzy Drake’s slick lyrics. Definitely a nice appetizer for today’s second annual OVO Fest in Toronto. Take Care on October 24.
Following the Young Money recipe for building up album hype, Tyga has come through with Well Done 2, a follow up to his 2010 mixtape of the same name. With his sophmore LP Careless World due for a September release, the YMCMB signee looks to gain momentum with WD2, putting his own twist on some of the hardest beats in the game today.
The Compton native goes hard off the bat, linking up with frequent collaborator Chris Brown on “Snapbacks Back.” Breezy surprises on the track with an aggressive verse and the two again show what a strong duo they make. Tyga’s laid-back drawl still works best over the light and buoyant production with which he first found success, but the inked up MC shows his versatility by delivering on a variety of beats from Tyler, The Creator’s “Yonkers,” to Frank Ocean’s “Novacaine.” Like his labelmate Lil Wayne, Tyga has shown a natural knack for taking on the big beats of the industry.
On the flip side, the tape doesn’t give the listener much of an idea of what we can expect from the Cali rapper’s highly anticipated album since so much of what we hear is informed by the current climate of rap. Tyga does a successful job at emulating Drake’s flow on “I’m On One” and Ocean’s on “LovaGain,” but as a result they come out reminding of the originals, lacking some of his original sound. Fortunately for T-Raw, he has the benefit of being surrounded by some of the most creative minds in the business, and considering Young Money’s recent album track record, Careless World will almost certainly propel the 21-year-old up and comer to the next level of stardom. — Lloyde Garavani
Last night, was the official Reebok Classics And Swizz Beatz "Reethym Of Lite" Campaign Unveiling in NYC.
The Event included an intimate performance by Swizz Beatz and friends, as well as an exclusive world premiere of "The Reethym of Lite" campaign and Swizzy's "International Party” music video.
Reebok enlisted the platinum producer/artist/designer/philanthropist as the creative director for this campaign, which marks the return of Reebok Classics to TV.
Swizz performed a plethora of hits including "Money in The Bank," "Phony or Fake," and his recent smash "Everyday (Coolin')." Notable celebs on deck included Diddy, Alicia Keys, Bevy Smith, Tika Sumpter, Maino, Busta Rhymes, Jay-Z and Beyonce.
The campaign featured the iconic Reebok Lite footwear and apparel through Swizz’s own Reethym of Lite.
The campaign is the latest step in a partnership that is focused on redefining the traditional definition of an artist-brand collaboration. Helmed by the endorsement of Swizz Beatz, the design has picked up steam since its initial drop earlier in the year.
They even unveiled some future Reebok heat.
Only seven retailers in the U.S. will be carrying the sneaker, including: Footaction at Greenspoint Mall (Houston), Sportsland (Chicago), Underground Station (Atlanta), Sneakervilla (Philadelphia), Sportie LA (Los Angeles), Jimmy Jazz (Brooklyn) and DrJays (NYC).
Once again, Swizz proves why he's a force to be reckoned with in this here fashion game.
Beastie Boys released the official, full-length music video to their song “Don’t Play No Game That I Can’t Win” featuring Santigold from their latest upcoming album Hot Sauce Committee Part 2 dropping on May 3rd. The Spike Jonze-directed video features Mike D, Ad-Rock and MCA visualized as action figures on a mission.
New from all-star former Clipse rapper Pusha T and supremely popular OFWGKTA artist Tyler, the Creator comes this behind-the-scenes peek at their upcoming video for “Trouble on My Mind.” The video seems to promise all kinds of debauchery, with each of the two rappers dressing in matching outfits to represent the other’s persona (Pusha T admits the Tyler doppleganger portion of this video shoot was his first time ever wearing Vans), extras from old ladies to street thugs and skaters running about, and 20-year-old Tyler, who is seen using crutches due to an injury, consistently hurling himself around in slapstick fashion. It looks like everyone involved had a fun time making this video happen and the end result is sure to be nothing short of entertaining. “Trouble on My Mind” is the newest single off of Pusha’s G.O.O.D Music solo mixtape endeavor, Fear of God.
During this year’s SXSW festivities, Kanye West invited his G.O.O.D. Music family and close friend Jay-Z to assist him on stage during his much-anticipated set. The event’s sponsor, VEVO, has now unveiled quality footage of the performance that include the likes of KiD CuDi, Mos Def, John Legend, Pusha T, Big Sean, CyHi Da Prynce, Mr. Hudson and of course the Watch the Throne protagonists. Check out above ‘Ye and Jay going “H.A.M” while other videos can be viewed here and below. Enjoy!
You could argue that Roc-A-Fella was born out of a desire for freewheeling creative vehicle. It eventually blossomed into a gigantic pie, and soon every major label wanted a slice.
The same can be said about Tech N9ne's Strange Music imprint. Tech couldn't get the majors to pay attention when he started out in '99. Now he can't get them off his back.
His latest album, All 6s & 7s, featured a who's who lineup of rap bigwigs, including Busta Rhymes and Lil Wayne. In 2009, Tech's Strangeland empire reportedly grossed $15 million in revenue. That's no cake walk for any company in a bruised industry, let alone an independent label.
AOL's The Boombox caught up with Tech Nina to discuss label politics and music business, among other things. And what's up with those allegations of devil worshipping?
On perceived satanist beliefs: "[Laughs] How crazy is that? People looked at my face paint, my crazy lyrics, my wild red hair and how loyal and intense my fanbase the Technitions were. They were talking about me being a cult leader. Can you imagine being in a place early on where outside of Strangeland everybody calls you a devil worshiper or a cult leader and your own people -- black people -- are not even coming to your shows? So you do a Rock the Bells show in 2008, with Busta Rhymes, Nas, Damian Marley and Raekwon and everybody is commending you. I thought everybody thought I was a weirdo! That show let me know that everybody was paying attention to me. I created my own lane. I had no idea that Nas and Damian had respect for me. Nas would be like, "Come out on stage, Tech. Rock with me." That's crazy to me. I had no idea, dude."
On gaining respect from mainstream peers: [Laughs] It's kind of funny. But it's proof that no matter if you are independent you can have success. I don't have to be on a major label to get these major artists wanting to work with me because I am right there. I've always been right there with them. I've always been an elite artist. Now people are starting to figure it out because of my numbers and the artists they listen to are speaking my name. Everybody knows I make wonderful music even if they say, "Aw, that's that weirdo s---." I love Lil Wayne for even having people look my way. I respect T-Pain and Busta Rhymes for giving me accolades. Thank you for recognizing real s---.
On the cons of being independent: The cons are that you will have no videos on TV and no songs on the radio. The radio game cost a lot of money, man. I would rather put my money into tour buses, merchandising and shows. Until we figure out if we want to play that majors game again, the way we tried to in 2002, and spent nearly $2 million doing it, we will do it again. The problem is, I don't look like anybody. With my face paint on I don't look like a regular black dude. MTV Jams is playing my videos now, but BET won't play me.
Did BET give you a reason?
They told me, "Well, that's not our format." But I'm something different. You have to conform to what I do. You have to come to Strangeland. You have to turn into Strangeland for a minute because there's something beautiful happening over here. My challenge has been getting my own people on it, but they are coming around slowly but surely.
He laughs at the irony of it all. The fact that Kansas City rapper Tech N9ne stands as one of the most successful independent artists of the past four years is a sobering realization that he is still trying to adjust to. But Tech's wonderment has nothing to do with a lack of confidence. On the contrary, it's the fact that he is genuinely shocked that a self-described weirdo who wears faint paint, raps about dark subject matter and puts on the type of wildly aggressive live spectacles that are more in line with an off-the-rails, balls-out metal act than a rap concert seems to be all the talk.
The indie talent that established his Strange Music imprint and empire with business partner and CEO Travis O'Guin in 1999, is now getting shout-outs by the mainstream likes of Lil Wayne, Snoop Dogg and Busta Rhymes. With Tech N9ne's latest album, 'All 6's and '7's,' literally shaking up the music industry -- in June, the release made a shocking No. 4 debut on the Billboard 200 charts -- the self-contained artist, label head, producer, merchandising machine and touring force still wants more. The BoomBox finds out what fuels this seemingly unstoppable force of nature, why he won't jump to a major label and the reason why people think he's a devil worshiper.
A lot of the mainstream press came around to you when the news got out that your independent label, Strange Music, grossed $15 million in 2009 alone. How much did your life change after that figure was released?
It was crazy. It's like winning the lottery. But I don't want my picture up on a billboard saying that I won $15 million [laughs]. I didn't want that to get out. But it's out there now. It's a real f------ number and I hate it.
But it seems like the hype is for real. Your latest album 'All 6's and 7's' debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200, selling 55,000 copies. Can you talk about what it's like to achieve that type of mainstream success without a major label pushing you?
I think it's by the grace of God. All the other artists recognize my ability to rhyme and my overall skill. When I was signed to Quincy Jones before I went independent, he told me to rap what you know and people will forever feel you. And I stuck to that. No matter how many people called me a devil worshiper, no matter how many people call me a cult leader. I stuck with rapping about what I know. Real s--- will always shine.
People actually thought you were a devil worshiper?
[Laughs] How crazy is that? People looked at my face paint, my crazy lyrics, my wild red hair and how loyal and intense my fanbase the Technitions were. They were talking about me being a cult leader. Can you imagine being in a place early on where outside of Strangeland everybody calls you a devil worshiper or a cult leader and your own people -- black people -- are not even coming to your shows? So you do a Rock the Bells show in 2008, with Busta Rhymes, Nas, Damian Marley and Raekwon and everybody is commending you. I thought everybody thought I was a weirdo! That show let me know that everybody was paying attention to me. I created my own lane. I had no idea that Nas and Damian had respect for me. Nas would be like, "Come out on stage, Tech. Rock with me." That's crazy to me. I had no idea, dude.
There was also the Lil Wayne co-sign you received earlier this year. How big of a shock was that?
That's when music fans outside of Strangeland started talking about me. Wayne saying that he liked Tech N9ne to Funkmaster Flex on the radio when he was locked up in Rikers was huge. I felt the same way when Busta Rhymes was calling me and saying, "Man, I really need you on this track." That lets you know real s--- will shine no matter who tries to tarnish it.
And both Wayne and Busta appear on your new album. That's a pretty great look for a so-called independent act, right?
When I do an album like this for the first time with Wayne, Yelawolf, Twista, B.o.B, Snoop Dogg, E-40, the Deftones and Mint Condition and it all comes together, it's a validation that I have been doing the right thing the whole time.
Do you sit back and think, "How in the hell did I pull off getting all of this star-power on my album?"
[Laughs] It's kind of funny. But it's proof that no matter if you are independent you can have success. I don't have to be on a major label to get these major artists wanting to work with me because I am right there. I've always been right there with them. I've always been an elite artist. Now people are starting to figure it out because of my numbers and the artists they listen to are speaking my name. Everybody knows I make wonderful music even if they say, "Aw, that's that weirdo s---." I love Lil Wayne for even having people look my way. I respect T-Pain and Busta Rhymes for giving me accolades. Thank you for recognizing real s---.
When you were recording 'All 6's and 7's,' what was your focus going into the album?
It starts off aggressive and gets kind of dim. It's a complex album. It gets dark with 'Strangeland' and 'The Boogieman.' It gets real sexual with the Wayne and T-Pain on a song called "F--- Food." It gets kind of pornographic with E-40 and Snoop and then it gets really personal. It's all kinds of confusion, but it's a wonderful confusion.
There have been reports that every label from Def Jam to Interscope have been after you to sign a major deal. Do you ever see yourself jumping into that major label world?
Every time I talk to Travis while I'm out on tour he'll tell me, "Def Jam called today." And I'm like, "What? I love Def Jam." It's great to hear that. That means a lot to me. But I have to have complete control -- 100 percent. The majors would have to give me millions to sign. I have to be able to write what I feel and do what I want. I have to be able to say, "Travis, I think we should release a EP on Halloween," or "Travis, I think we should put out a CD on my birthday or my mom's birthday." We can do whatever, man. We are the label.
You talked about the pros of being independent. What are some of the cons?
The cons are that you will have no videos on TV and no songs on the radio. The radio game cost a lot of money, man. I would rather put my money into tour buses, merchandising and shows. Until we figure out if we want to play that majors game again, the way we tried to in 2002, and spent nearly $2 million doing it, we will do it again. The problem is, I don't look like anybody. With my face paint on I don't look like a regular black dude. MTV Jams is playing my videos now, but BET won't play me.
Did BET give you a reason?
They told me, "Well, that's not our format." But I'm something different. You have to conform to what I do. You have to come to Strangeland. You have to turn into Strangeland for a minute because there's something beautiful happening over here. My challenge has been getting my own people on it, but they are coming around slowly but surely.
Your bread-and-butter has always been touring. In an era when concert box office totals have been steadily declining, how have you been able to find success on the road?
We've been selling out shows for a longtime. But the shows are double and triple now. The places are bigger and we are still selling them out. It's so crazy. I'm seeing it bubble before my eyes. It's growing like a forest fire and it's hard to concentrate because I'm looking out at all the people stacked in there on a Monday night. We do a show everyday. You are not supposed to sell out Las Vegas on a Monday night. We are playing to anywhere from 1,000 to 4,000 people. I do over 250 shows a year. It's going to be more this year because we are doing 82 shows in 85 days. This will be the longest tour I have ever done. My fans are great. People call them the new Deadheads. I have the Juggalos that are loyal, I have the metal heads, and the gang bangers. It's a melting pot.
When you think back to the days when labels were turning you down in the early 2000s, what comes to mind?
That this music thing is hard as hell. You have to have some kind of pilot to guide you through it all. You need money. We took losses, man. That first Hostile Takeover tour in 2001, we lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. You have to really believe in the music to lose that type of money on a tour. Back then, that's when I was into my drugs and ecstasy. I almost died taking 15 pills one night. It was hard for anyone to accept me. And I'm independent? Nobody wanted to open doors, radio, video, nobody. So we had to open our own doors. That's why I'm so grateful for all of my success. I want to keep it going.
In other equally important news. Amber Rose recently unveiled this tattoo of her "angel" Wiz Khalifa (real name Cameron Jibril Thomaz). The popular party girl stated that she wants his name tattooed on her body one million times. Moments like these really make me miss 'The Oprah Winfrey Show'. Somebody needs to sit this child down, force her to read some Maya Angelou and recite poems from And I Still Rise because she clearly needs an intervention.
In a rare move, pop Sensation Beyonce gave her fans an idea of what her wedding day may have looked like.
The recently released music video for "Best Thing I Never Had" finds Bey playing a soon-to-be bride wearing a sexy bridal lingerie outfit.
While singing about the man who wronged her, King B struts around her bedroom in a sheer white number complete with a shapely revealing front, corset lace-up back, suspenders and garter.
WOW.
We know Bey has definitely inspired a few women to not only hit the gym, but to purchase some sexy "wedding day" lingerie.
Even if they're not getting married *wink, wink*
We've taken the liberty of giving you plenty of options, after combing the #1 site for lingerie, Victoria's Secret.
