I'm getting pretty good at daily blogging. Believe me its a challenge just to find the time. Today I was thinking about what I was going to blog about and came up with some philosophy that I heard from comedian/entrepreneur Steve Harvey.
He stated several times about not having a "Plan B" for your life and being totally committed to your "Plan A". He says if you have a "Plan B" then you are not totally committed to fulfilling your "Plan A". He says you should put all of your energy in to making your "Plan A" a reality.
As his words sank into my mind, I began to think about how I could and could've applied this train of thought to my life. I used to be the type of person who tried to do too many things and got hardly NOTHING accomplished. For example, I have been a Hiphoppa since I was 8 years old. Sometimes its hard to believe that but its true.
In my Senior year of high school, I started getting serious and started making demos. I kept on pluggin' away at the music business and eventually some people thought me and my group were good enough to go perform at the Apollo. That's when I figured I could make a career out of music. I started researching this business and trying to learn all I could and I still do today.
Unfortunately, things weren't moving fast enough for me when I was younger. I went from job to job and I even got a real estate license because I wanted a better life. While I was doing these things, I never stopped loving Hiphop. I learned how to make beats and instrumentals along the way but I just had too many other distractions. Hell, I even bought and sold a few houses but the lack of focus was just killing my enthusiasm to do what I really loved.
Well, earlier this year, I had a life changing experience and I decided to get really focused on one thing and that was making beats. There are more people who are in need of production than need rappers. The rappers even need producers and I'm sure the rapper/producer ratio is more skewed toward the rappers!
For me this meant letting a lot of other things go UNTIL I get my "Plan A" right. Once that happens, yes I will pursue other interests but not until then. I can site numerous examples in Hiphop alone of people who started off doing one thing, became successful, then branched out to do other things.
So I hope this makes you think a little and helps you get focused on what you really wanna do. We can be good at many things but unless we have a 'laser-beam' focus, we will only produce mediocre results at best.
As always I encourage feedback. You can post your reply here or send me an email at mello@free-hot-rap.com.
Oh yeah, I'm doing some site redesigns. Be sure to add www.Free-Hot-Rap.com to the Favorites tab in your browser.
Let's Make It Happen!
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Tuesday, August 28, 2007
25 Must-have Rap Albums for Hiphop Artists
Whassup Y’all? (Don’t forget I’m from the ATL!)
I stumbled across a nice blog today called rap, lies, & videotape by Craig Belcher where he list 25 classic Hiphop albums. This list of albums is a must have for anyone serious about the music business, rap and Hiphop especially. In KRS-ONE’s book, “The Science of Rap”, he lists a few albums that aspiring Hiphoppas should pick up. Some of them are on this list as well. Here is the Craig’s compiled list along with his comments on each album:
1. It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back/Public Enemy
Conceptually sound, impeccable production and powerful lyricism. I memorized every word, sample and sound of this record. I might still know it, too.
2. 3 Feet High and Rising/De La Soul
A groundbreaking declaration of individuality and creativity. The album proved that it’s okay to be different, as long as you're dope.
3. Amerikkka's Most Wanted/Ice Cube
Anchored by Bomb Squad production, Ice Cube make one of the edgiest records of his time. Nothing set me off like hearing these songs back in the day.
4. Black Star/Mos Def and Talib Kweli
Indisputable proof that real hip hop can still be made, if you're willing to try.
5. Ilmatic/Nas
Perfect poetry and production from hip hop's greatest beat makers. No one tells a story like Nas.
6. Bazerk Bazerk Bazerk/Son of Bazerk
I've already written a lot about this group on this site. The most explosive release of the '90s.
7. Criminal Minded/BDP
KRS-One's voice was the primary instrument of the minimalist production of BDP's debut. His timing, inflection and emphasis are impeccable. The politics and philosophy were often confusing, but that only made things more interesting.
8. The Cactus Album/3rd Bass
Deadly serious and seriously funny at the same time. The best hip-hop duo, pre-Outkast.
9. De La Soul is Dead/De La Soul
A skillful reinvention complete with a read along storybook. I listened to this so much, the lyrics became part of my everyday conversation. Sometimes this manifests at inopportune moments, like when we group last week, and there was a debate over seating arrangements, and I said "I'm Hemroid! I'm the leader!"
10. Hard to Earn/Gangstarr
Consistently indestructible beats and rhymes. It took a guy from Boston and another from Texas to make some of the best NY hip hop ever.
11. And The Winner Is .../Chubb Rock and Hitman Howie T
Chubb Rock's compelling delivery belies his intelligence and sharp sense of humor: "Some artists mix me with go-go/Def lyrics but it sounds so-so. Howie T's production chops were at their apex here and the Chubbster was in rare form.
12. Young Black Teenagers/Young Black Teenagers
The Bomb Squad and four guys rapping at once, none of them black or in their teens. That's keeping it real. The Bomb Squad nearly outdid themselves here, giving the YBT a potent sonic landscape that matched frustration and rage of their lyrics.
13. All Hail the Queen/Queen Latifah
One of the best releases from the Native Tongue collective. The Queen rapped and sang over beats from hip hop's A-List of producers with gratifying results. The chorus of Wrath of My Madness still haunts me. What is she saying?
14. Straight Out The Jungle/Jungle Brothers
I really got into this after the Native Tongue had begun. I was aware of it when it came out and I was attracted to their laid back style. This was an innovative record that launched a musical movement and the first rap hybrid - hip-house.
15. Blue Funk/Heavy D
The Heavster didn't make this one for the ladies who loved Keith Sweat and Bobby Brown. Blue Funk, with production from Pete Rock, DJ Premier, was for the heads. Classic material.
16. Sex Packets/Digital Underground
The closest any hip-hop group got to the conviction and spirit of P-Funk. Shock G came with dual identities, tales of fictitious sex drugs and everything on the one. I still have my ticket stub from Gutfest '89.
17. Outkast/Aquemini
Hip-Hop's most consistent duo proved they were here to stay with their third solid release. The ultimate Outkast record is tainted only by the ungroovable "Mamacita."
18. Brand Nubian/One For All
Politics, religion and social commentary over phat loops and inspired production. Puba, Derek X and Lord Jamar's relaxed deliveries made making a classic look real easy.
19. Eric B & Rakim/Follow the Leader
Rakim's verbal dexterity grew more complex on their second album. The instrumental tracks, a rap rarity these days, were needed to digest Ra's vigorous wordplay and furious styles.
20. Run-DMC/Raising Hell
This record is so full of timeless tracks, it sounds like a compilation of hits. Raising Hell was a landmark moment for hip hop, after "Walk This Way," there could be no turning back.
21. The Notorious B.I.G./Ready to Die
Radio friendly hip hop with a street edge from Brooklyn's finest. This record would be the blueprint for any rapper dreaming of commercial success. But nobody could do it like Biggie.
22. Dr. Dre/The Chronic
The Doctor prescribed a heavy dose of funk, replaying the sounds of soul hits interspersed with the original voices. Rhymes from Snoop Dogg and humor from the D.O.C. made this operation a success. Dre created a professional reputation with this record that remains unshakable. However, his personal reputation ... let's just say were it not for Dre, there would be no DBC.
23. Pharcyde/Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde
The Pharcyde rapped songs about lost love, regret, drugs and ya mama. J Swift's production on this record was jazz-influenced by its samples and spontaneity. It was the roller coaster ride the record cover promised, thrilling from end to end.
24. Redman/Whut? Thee Album
Redman introduced the WTFF factor to hip hop. He steered clear of preset categories of rap music and created a lane for himself, with fearless approach to making songs. He even freaked in Korean.
25. A Tribe Called Quest/The Low End Theory
The promise of "People's Instinctive Travel ..." was fulfilled on this release. The sounds were sparse, yet more effective and integral to the work as a whole. Phife came into his own as Q-Tip continued to perform at the top of his game.
Like I posted on Craig’s site, I could think of some others but why? Yes there are other classic Hiphop albums that could be on this list but this list is SOLID! I think all rap artists should study this culture fully to really embrace it and this is truly a great list to start your research.
If you are having trouble writing I’m sure at least one of these albums will give you some inspiration to get your pen moving.
With that being said, what are you still reading for? You should be writing something dope. Maybe in a few years it will be on somebody’s Top 25 list.
As always I encourage feedback. You can post your reply here or send me an email at mello@free-hot-rap.com.
Also (here comes the shameless self plug), be sure to check out the hot Rap and Hiphop Instrumentals at http://www.free-hot-rap.com/.
Let’s Make It Happen!
I stumbled across a nice blog today called rap, lies, & videotape by Craig Belcher where he list 25 classic Hiphop albums. This list of albums is a must have for anyone serious about the music business, rap and Hiphop especially. In KRS-ONE’s book, “The Science of Rap”, he lists a few albums that aspiring Hiphoppas should pick up. Some of them are on this list as well. Here is the Craig’s compiled list along with his comments on each album:
1. It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back/Public Enemy
Conceptually sound, impeccable production and powerful lyricism. I memorized every word, sample and sound of this record. I might still know it, too.
2. 3 Feet High and Rising/De La Soul
A groundbreaking declaration of individuality and creativity. The album proved that it’s okay to be different, as long as you're dope.
3. Amerikkka's Most Wanted/Ice Cube
Anchored by Bomb Squad production, Ice Cube make one of the edgiest records of his time. Nothing set me off like hearing these songs back in the day.
4. Black Star/Mos Def and Talib Kweli
Indisputable proof that real hip hop can still be made, if you're willing to try.
5. Ilmatic/Nas
Perfect poetry and production from hip hop's greatest beat makers. No one tells a story like Nas.
6. Bazerk Bazerk Bazerk/Son of Bazerk
I've already written a lot about this group on this site. The most explosive release of the '90s.
7. Criminal Minded/BDP
KRS-One's voice was the primary instrument of the minimalist production of BDP's debut. His timing, inflection and emphasis are impeccable. The politics and philosophy were often confusing, but that only made things more interesting.
8. The Cactus Album/3rd Bass
Deadly serious and seriously funny at the same time. The best hip-hop duo, pre-Outkast.
9. De La Soul is Dead/De La Soul
A skillful reinvention complete with a read along storybook. I listened to this so much, the lyrics became part of my everyday conversation. Sometimes this manifests at inopportune moments, like when we group last week, and there was a debate over seating arrangements, and I said "I'm Hemroid! I'm the leader!"
10. Hard to Earn/Gangstarr
Consistently indestructible beats and rhymes. It took a guy from Boston and another from Texas to make some of the best NY hip hop ever.
11. And The Winner Is .../Chubb Rock and Hitman Howie T
Chubb Rock's compelling delivery belies his intelligence and sharp sense of humor: "Some artists mix me with go-go/Def lyrics but it sounds so-so. Howie T's production chops were at their apex here and the Chubbster was in rare form.
12. Young Black Teenagers/Young Black Teenagers
The Bomb Squad and four guys rapping at once, none of them black or in their teens. That's keeping it real. The Bomb Squad nearly outdid themselves here, giving the YBT a potent sonic landscape that matched frustration and rage of their lyrics.
13. All Hail the Queen/Queen Latifah
One of the best releases from the Native Tongue collective. The Queen rapped and sang over beats from hip hop's A-List of producers with gratifying results. The chorus of Wrath of My Madness still haunts me. What is she saying?
14. Straight Out The Jungle/Jungle Brothers
I really got into this after the Native Tongue had begun. I was aware of it when it came out and I was attracted to their laid back style. This was an innovative record that launched a musical movement and the first rap hybrid - hip-house.
15. Blue Funk/Heavy D
The Heavster didn't make this one for the ladies who loved Keith Sweat and Bobby Brown. Blue Funk, with production from Pete Rock, DJ Premier, was for the heads. Classic material.
16. Sex Packets/Digital Underground
The closest any hip-hop group got to the conviction and spirit of P-Funk. Shock G came with dual identities, tales of fictitious sex drugs and everything on the one. I still have my ticket stub from Gutfest '89.
17. Outkast/Aquemini
Hip-Hop's most consistent duo proved they were here to stay with their third solid release. The ultimate Outkast record is tainted only by the ungroovable "Mamacita."
18. Brand Nubian/One For All
Politics, religion and social commentary over phat loops and inspired production. Puba, Derek X and Lord Jamar's relaxed deliveries made making a classic look real easy.
19. Eric B & Rakim/Follow the Leader
Rakim's verbal dexterity grew more complex on their second album. The instrumental tracks, a rap rarity these days, were needed to digest Ra's vigorous wordplay and furious styles.
20. Run-DMC/Raising Hell
This record is so full of timeless tracks, it sounds like a compilation of hits. Raising Hell was a landmark moment for hip hop, after "Walk This Way," there could be no turning back.
21. The Notorious B.I.G./Ready to Die
Radio friendly hip hop with a street edge from Brooklyn's finest. This record would be the blueprint for any rapper dreaming of commercial success. But nobody could do it like Biggie.
22. Dr. Dre/The Chronic
The Doctor prescribed a heavy dose of funk, replaying the sounds of soul hits interspersed with the original voices. Rhymes from Snoop Dogg and humor from the D.O.C. made this operation a success. Dre created a professional reputation with this record that remains unshakable. However, his personal reputation ... let's just say were it not for Dre, there would be no DBC.
23. Pharcyde/Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde
The Pharcyde rapped songs about lost love, regret, drugs and ya mama. J Swift's production on this record was jazz-influenced by its samples and spontaneity. It was the roller coaster ride the record cover promised, thrilling from end to end.
24. Redman/Whut? Thee Album
Redman introduced the WTFF factor to hip hop. He steered clear of preset categories of rap music and created a lane for himself, with fearless approach to making songs. He even freaked in Korean.
25. A Tribe Called Quest/The Low End Theory
The promise of "People's Instinctive Travel ..." was fulfilled on this release. The sounds were sparse, yet more effective and integral to the work as a whole. Phife came into his own as Q-Tip continued to perform at the top of his game.
Like I posted on Craig’s site, I could think of some others but why? Yes there are other classic Hiphop albums that could be on this list but this list is SOLID! I think all rap artists should study this culture fully to really embrace it and this is truly a great list to start your research.
If you are having trouble writing I’m sure at least one of these albums will give you some inspiration to get your pen moving.
With that being said, what are you still reading for? You should be writing something dope. Maybe in a few years it will be on somebody’s Top 25 list.
As always I encourage feedback. You can post your reply here or send me an email at mello@free-hot-rap.com.
Also (here comes the shameless self plug), be sure to check out the hot Rap and Hiphop Instrumentals at http://www.free-hot-rap.com/.
Let’s Make It Happen!
Monday, August 27, 2007
Hiphop's Uphill Battle
I came across an article written by Phil Watts, Jr posted at http://www.411mania.com/. In it he gives his Mid-year look at Hip-Hop in 2007. I really got into the article and I agree with him on most of his points. Here are some things that he brought up that we should think on:
1) The decline in rap music sales
2) Downloadable music sales versus CD sales (we touched on this already)
3) The crackdown on the industry of mixtapes
4) The re-emphasis on censorship
One thing for sure Mr. Watts has love for Hiphop. I love the way he slayed one reviewer of the Jaylib reissue album. The reviewer was very disrespectful to both Jay Dee and Madlib and Watts let him have it. Well done!
Now back to the Mid-year look, I want to build on the downloadable music sales versus CD sales first. Like I said, we touched on this within the last couple of weeks as a matter of fact. What Watts indicated about this was kinda disturbing but destined to happen. He stated some sites like Hiphopsite.com have abandoned the CD and vinyl records to strictly selling downloads.
While this sounds cool to abandon the CD because online retailers are doing it, remember what I said before. CD are still a great marketing tool. I know some people would argue that they are dead but I would disagree and say that their marketing plan is flawed.
Remember my meeting with Scarface? Even today I would’ve still rather have given him a CD instead of link to a mp3 file. A CD has a certain presentation quality that you simply can’t get with a mp3 file. Its tangible to start with and most people are still used to CDs.
I would really like to get some feedback on this one. You can post your reply here or send me an email at mello@free-hot-rap.com.
Also, I just got some HOT new instrumentals from my man DJ Pocket from Serious Knock Entertainment. When they are posted to http://www.free-hot-rap.com/ I will sure to let you know.
Aight!!! Let’s Make It Happen!
1) The decline in rap music sales
2) Downloadable music sales versus CD sales (we touched on this already)
3) The crackdown on the industry of mixtapes
4) The re-emphasis on censorship
One thing for sure Mr. Watts has love for Hiphop. I love the way he slayed one reviewer of the Jaylib reissue album. The reviewer was very disrespectful to both Jay Dee and Madlib and Watts let him have it. Well done!
Now back to the Mid-year look, I want to build on the downloadable music sales versus CD sales first. Like I said, we touched on this within the last couple of weeks as a matter of fact. What Watts indicated about this was kinda disturbing but destined to happen. He stated some sites like Hiphopsite.com have abandoned the CD and vinyl records to strictly selling downloads.
While this sounds cool to abandon the CD because online retailers are doing it, remember what I said before. CD are still a great marketing tool. I know some people would argue that they are dead but I would disagree and say that their marketing plan is flawed.
Remember my meeting with Scarface? Even today I would’ve still rather have given him a CD instead of link to a mp3 file. A CD has a certain presentation quality that you simply can’t get with a mp3 file. Its tangible to start with and most people are still used to CDs.
I would really like to get some feedback on this one. You can post your reply here or send me an email at mello@free-hot-rap.com.
Also, I just got some HOT new instrumentals from my man DJ Pocket from Serious Knock Entertainment. When they are posted to http://www.free-hot-rap.com/ I will sure to let you know.
Aight!!! Let’s Make It Happen!
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Is this Rap and Hiphop's Fault?
I took this little blurb from Yahoo! News. It is from an article entitled, "The CD turns 25", written by Stephanie van den Berg for AFP.
"Some wonder if the CD will make it to its 30th anniversary, with the surge in digital music downloads that are put directly onto MP3 music players like the popular IPod.
"In the last 10 years CD sales have been dropping while digital download sales are rising rapidly. According to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), digital sales will account for a quarter of all worldwide music sales by 2010.
"Nonetheless (Paul) Solleveld is optimistic that the CD will make it to 30 and beyond.
"To some extent the CD has been replaced by downloads on MP3 players but I think there will always be a place for the CD," he said."
Why is this interesting to me and why should we be concerned as artists? Well, those with eyes can see. Music CD sales have been going down steady within the last 16 years. Digital download sales have been up for the past few years and this trend is one to pay attention to.
My homie Eddie Meeks (www.myspace.com/bigmeeks) recently told me he received song royalties from IODA for digital downloads. People are even receiving royalties from instrumentals too believe it or not!
So should we just forget about the CD altogether? I don't think so. People still buy them. Mix tapes DJ's still use them, most cars still have have CD players (remember when this was an option?), and the music industry is still making money off of them. Most people I know are still rockin' CD's and there are many people who still don't own mp3 players.
The obvious choice is to use both CD's and mp3 files to operate in the industry. If you throw away the CD and rely only on mp3's, you are killing a large percent of your ability to deliver your music. And vice versa.
If you haven't already done so, please figure out a way to get on the digital trend and sell mp3's as a way to enhance your marketing efforts. It's too easy and I can guarantee if you don't you'll be sorry in about 5 years from now.
Don't forget to check out the newest Rap, Hiphop and R&B instrumentals at http://www.free-hot-rap.com/!
You can reach me at mello@free-hot-rap.com.
Peace...
"Some wonder if the CD will make it to its 30th anniversary, with the surge in digital music downloads that are put directly onto MP3 music players like the popular IPod.
"In the last 10 years CD sales have been dropping while digital download sales are rising rapidly. According to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), digital sales will account for a quarter of all worldwide music sales by 2010.
"Nonetheless (Paul) Solleveld is optimistic that the CD will make it to 30 and beyond.
"To some extent the CD has been replaced by downloads on MP3 players but I think there will always be a place for the CD," he said."
Why is this interesting to me and why should we be concerned as artists? Well, those with eyes can see. Music CD sales have been going down steady within the last 16 years. Digital download sales have been up for the past few years and this trend is one to pay attention to.
My homie Eddie Meeks (www.myspace.com/bigmeeks) recently told me he received song royalties from IODA for digital downloads. People are even receiving royalties from instrumentals too believe it or not!
So should we just forget about the CD altogether? I don't think so. People still buy them. Mix tapes DJ's still use them, most cars still have have CD players (remember when this was an option?), and the music industry is still making money off of them. Most people I know are still rockin' CD's and there are many people who still don't own mp3 players.
The obvious choice is to use both CD's and mp3 files to operate in the industry. If you throw away the CD and rely only on mp3's, you are killing a large percent of your ability to deliver your music. And vice versa.
If you haven't already done so, please figure out a way to get on the digital trend and sell mp3's as a way to enhance your marketing efforts. It's too easy and I can guarantee if you don't you'll be sorry in about 5 years from now.
Don't forget to check out the newest Rap, Hiphop and R&B instrumentals at http://www.free-hot-rap.com/!
You can reach me at mello@free-hot-rap.com.
Peace...
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Multiple Streams of Hiphop Income
Hey, I was just reading where Forbes listed the Hiphop Kings for 2006. Of course the names haven't changed much from 2005: Jay-Z, 50-cent, P. Diddy, etc.
What I did notice was that what most of the people on the list had in common was that they generated money from something other than rappin'. My man Timbaland, who is one of my favorite producers pulled in $21 million dollars making instrumentals and beats for Rap, Hiphop, R&B and Pop acts. Scott Storch and Pharell hit the bank for $17 million apiece.
There is money to be made. Snoop of course makes a killin' off cameo and movies and Dr. Dre and Eminem were both mention as top billers. They basically put 50 on the fast track.
The point I'm trying to make is if you are an artist, don't just stop at writing rhymes because if and when you make it and blow up, there's no guarantee that you will be at the top for long. Have some other source of income. I remember KRS-ONE wrote in his last book that in addition to being an emcee, he produced instrumentals for other artists, gave lectures, and wrote books.
Yes, I am an emcee as well but I learned long time ago that fame is not promised and if can come and go overnight. In addition to emceeing, I produce instrumentals, write books, buy and sell real estate, etc. just to keep my hustle going. And as much I don't like working a day job (I have quit many!), my child has to eat so I must keep a steady cash flow going.
Think about all of this. Yes you might have a dream and you must have one to have a dream come true but being an artist cost time and time is money! With that being said I'm out.
If you haven't already, make sure you stop by www.Free-Hot-Rap.com for some heat!
Let's Make It Happen...
What I did notice was that what most of the people on the list had in common was that they generated money from something other than rappin'. My man Timbaland, who is one of my favorite producers pulled in $21 million dollars making instrumentals and beats for Rap, Hiphop, R&B and Pop acts. Scott Storch and Pharell hit the bank for $17 million apiece.
There is money to be made. Snoop of course makes a killin' off cameo and movies and Dr. Dre and Eminem were both mention as top billers. They basically put 50 on the fast track.
The point I'm trying to make is if you are an artist, don't just stop at writing rhymes because if and when you make it and blow up, there's no guarantee that you will be at the top for long. Have some other source of income. I remember KRS-ONE wrote in his last book that in addition to being an emcee, he produced instrumentals for other artists, gave lectures, and wrote books.
Yes, I am an emcee as well but I learned long time ago that fame is not promised and if can come and go overnight. In addition to emceeing, I produce instrumentals, write books, buy and sell real estate, etc. just to keep my hustle going. And as much I don't like working a day job (I have quit many!), my child has to eat so I must keep a steady cash flow going.
Think about all of this. Yes you might have a dream and you must have one to have a dream come true but being an artist cost time and time is money! With that being said I'm out.
If you haven't already, make sure you stop by www.Free-Hot-Rap.com for some heat!
Let's Make It Happen...
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
The Challenge: 50 vs. Kanye
I just read where 50 cent has made a bold statement. He stated that if Kanye's album sells more records than his does then he'd quit making solo albums.
Is it a confidence thing or is it a mere fact?
Both are controversal and both can move records. Well, I got my money on Fiddy (50) and here's why:
We all know drama sells records. 50 always has some sort of drama going on when its time to drop his albums. Remember Ja Rule and The Game?
Also, (and I don't agree with this but its the way it is right now) Kanye ain't thug enough. He hasn't sold enough dope, shot enough people, been shot at enough, or slapped enough bitches on his albums.
That being said, let me go ahead and say the BUSINESS of Hiphop music is FUCKED UP! There is no balance.
Off the soapbox Mello! Back to the facts.
One last glaring point is that traditionally, 50 has sold more albums than Kanye. I don't see this one being any different. This may also be a friendly CEO battle as well because at the helm of the 2 labels are Dr. Dre and Jay-Z.
Who do you think will win? Feel free to post your comments.
And don't forget to check out the hot rap and hip hop instrumentals at www.Free-Hot-Rap.com.
Is it a confidence thing or is it a mere fact?
Both are controversal and both can move records. Well, I got my money on Fiddy (50) and here's why:
We all know drama sells records. 50 always has some sort of drama going on when its time to drop his albums. Remember Ja Rule and The Game?
Also, (and I don't agree with this but its the way it is right now) Kanye ain't thug enough. He hasn't sold enough dope, shot enough people, been shot at enough, or slapped enough bitches on his albums.
That being said, let me go ahead and say the BUSINESS of Hiphop music is FUCKED UP! There is no balance.
Off the soapbox Mello! Back to the facts.
One last glaring point is that traditionally, 50 has sold more albums than Kanye. I don't see this one being any different. This may also be a friendly CEO battle as well because at the helm of the 2 labels are Dr. Dre and Jay-Z.
Who do you think will win? Feel free to post your comments.
And don't forget to check out the hot rap and hip hop instrumentals at www.Free-Hot-Rap.com.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Universal to sell songs without DRM
Okay this is big news. Universal Music has stated they will sell music without digital rights management (DRM). Being the largest distributor of music, this has to have some implications on the music industry.
DRM is used to curb online piracy also known as bootlegging.
Universal has a deep roster including 50 cent, Black Eyed Peas, and they distribute the legendary Def Jam record label.
The move comes as a way to test factors such as price sensitivity, piracy, and consumer demand.
I think that this will raise prices in the short term for online retailers because the slack has to be adjusted for due to more people being able download music without being stopped by DRM.
This is one story to keep watching.
DRM is used to curb online piracy also known as bootlegging.
Universal has a deep roster including 50 cent, Black Eyed Peas, and they distribute the legendary Def Jam record label.
The move comes as a way to test factors such as price sensitivity, piracy, and consumer demand.
I think that this will raise prices in the short term for online retailers because the slack has to be adjusted for due to more people being able download music without being stopped by DRM.
This is one story to keep watching.
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Shameless Instrumental Plug
Whassup folks?
I almost forgot to post this. I just wanted to let you know that I am running a sale at Free-Hot-Rap.com. Prices on all Rap, Hip Hop and R & B instrumentals have been deeply discounted until THIS Friday only. To take advantage of this opportunity go to www.Free-Hot-Rap.com now.
For questions, you can hit me up at mello@free-hot-rap.com. Holla!
I almost forgot to post this. I just wanted to let you know that I am running a sale at Free-Hot-Rap.com. Prices on all Rap, Hip Hop and R & B instrumentals have been deeply discounted until THIS Friday only. To take advantage of this opportunity go to www.Free-Hot-Rap.com now.
For questions, you can hit me up at mello@free-hot-rap.com. Holla!
Monday, August 6, 2007
More Hot Instrumentals On The Way!
Alright, I just had a meeting yesterday with my boy Ejay Jetson, in-house producer for Sony Records and Jodi Breeze's cousin from Block Entertainment (Boyz N Da Hood). It was good to talk to Ejay. We been knowing each other for years, even before we got serious in the music business. I know I said I wouldn't tell you who was going to be dropping some new instrumentals with Free-Hot-Rap.com, but I have the right to change my mind. :-)
Ejay is going to share some hot 'Pay-Per-Beat' tracks to fatten the Non-Exclusive catalog, PLUS he is putting some of his hottest beats up for Exclusive auction. Like I tell you all the time, we bringin' the heat with the hottest producers who make the hottest instrumentals.
Now that's what's up!
Don't forget to the check out the catalog at Instrumentals.Free-Hot-Rap.com.
I'll holla!
Mello Melanin
P.S. I have a special announcement coming up this week. I'll keep you posted. ;-)
Ejay is going to share some hot 'Pay-Per-Beat' tracks to fatten the Non-Exclusive catalog, PLUS he is putting some of his hottest beats up for Exclusive auction. Like I tell you all the time, we bringin' the heat with the hottest producers who make the hottest instrumentals.
Now that's what's up!
Don't forget to the check out the catalog at Instrumentals.Free-Hot-Rap.com.
I'll holla!
Mello Melanin
P.S. I have a special announcement coming up this week. I'll keep you posted. ;-)
Thursday, August 2, 2007
What's holding you back?
Whassup folks? In my effort to get a blog posted on a consistent basis, I missed posting for a couple of days. I could go on and say it was my Internet connection that was the problem but that's not the Truth. What really happened was that yes, I had some connection difficulties but the problem was me prioritizing blogging versus some other 'stuff'.
I had ample opportunity to post at certain times of the day but I chose to do other things. Those are the facts, that I chose to do something else. How does this relate to you?
Have you been working on you music career or are you waiting on the perfect moment to get started. They say if you wait for your ship to come in too long then your peer will collapse. What this means is 'What are you waiting for???'
You eat an elephant one bite at a time, not by trying to stuff the whole thing in your mouth. So what's the next move for you?
Are you writing to instrumentals to finish your album or demo? Have you finished your demo and just need to ship it out to your contacts? Are you waiting to get discovered by some top-level record executive. I hope not!
See as I've often said and continually learn, nothing replaces action. You could be the most fire emcee on the mic but if you ain't puttin' in the footwork it takes to be successful then you might as well DO SOMETHING ELSE! See this music biz takes a lot of work. Are you committed to making it work or are you just talking about it?
There is a difference and it's called action. See what can happen when you just act on your plan (Planning is a blog post discussion coming soon). I can site numerous examples. You won't believe how far you've gotten in such a short time with the combination of a laser beam focus and some action. So do something today. Don't wait because time waits for no man!
I'll Holla!
P.S. Don't forget to check me out at Instrumentals.Free-Hot-Rap.com
I had ample opportunity to post at certain times of the day but I chose to do other things. Those are the facts, that I chose to do something else. How does this relate to you?
Have you been working on you music career or are you waiting on the perfect moment to get started. They say if you wait for your ship to come in too long then your peer will collapse. What this means is 'What are you waiting for???'
You eat an elephant one bite at a time, not by trying to stuff the whole thing in your mouth. So what's the next move for you?
Are you writing to instrumentals to finish your album or demo? Have you finished your demo and just need to ship it out to your contacts? Are you waiting to get discovered by some top-level record executive. I hope not!
See as I've often said and continually learn, nothing replaces action. You could be the most fire emcee on the mic but if you ain't puttin' in the footwork it takes to be successful then you might as well DO SOMETHING ELSE! See this music biz takes a lot of work. Are you committed to making it work or are you just talking about it?
There is a difference and it's called action. See what can happen when you just act on your plan (Planning is a blog post discussion coming soon). I can site numerous examples. You won't believe how far you've gotten in such a short time with the combination of a laser beam focus and some action. So do something today. Don't wait because time waits for no man!
I'll Holla!
P.S. Don't forget to check me out at Instrumentals.Free-Hot-Rap.com
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