The Underground Railroad - WVFS 89.7 FM

Crooked I (Never Have) Hip Hop Weekly

2010-10-28T23:44:00.001-04:00

Lyric Jones "Sunshine"

2010-10-25T22:03:00.005-04:00

Lyric Jones! Do you have it? A nice amount of people feel that music is driven by the beat, the sound of the instruments collaborating to produce a tune of audio delight. While this recipe can provide a certain level of satisfaction, the lyrics are the icing to the cake. It is with the lyrics that one can paint any picture that they choose while using the beat as their personal canvas. As much as Hip Hop fans enjoy a great beat, they also appreciate the lyrics that complete each song and make it come to life. They have a Lyric Jones!

Lyric Jones is a female emcee (Femcee) who knows how to satisfy the hunger for thoughtful word play. For her track “Sunshine” produced by Daru Jones, Lyric Jones speaks on her plan to rise and help carry the torch of Hip Hop while respecting those who came before her. It is her honest expressions made through out the song that truly that helps you see the point of view of someone who knows where they want to go while being aware of the dedication it takes to reach it while also remaining grounded in who they are. If you enjoy good music, the Lyric Jones is hard to deny.

-J. Cummings

Consequence - G.O.O.D. Music (feat. Common and Talib Kweli)

2010-09-12T11:44:00.000-04:00

Killah Priest (Listen to Me)

2010-08-13T22:02:00.001-04:00

All upcoming rappers.....please don't do this!

2010-08-10T14:45:00.001-04:00

Tek of Smif N Wessun "Death Is Forever" Music Video featuring Havoc & General Steele

2010-08-10T14:12:00.000-04:00

J. Cole (Bun B for President)

2010-08-09T11:07:00.001-04:00

Drag-On is making a comback

2010-08-06T02:01:00.001-04:00

Eminem and Slaughterhouse (Session One)

2010-08-04T00:14:00.001-04:00

I Am A Writer (August 4th, 2010)

2010-08-04T00:06:00.003-04:00

Each step to my goal has sinking me in a role/
where my shoulder's going cold, the more I'm getting old/
you know howit goes/
everything that glitter ain't always the gold on this road....copper likes to pose/

Derrick Rose penetration in your mental traffic/
illmatic habit that makes you want to grasp the graphic/
on my hustle cause my paper trail leads to money /
the luxury I'll acquire was witnessed by three mummy's/

Candy coated benz, cool whip for a blue chip/
365 days of playing tag I'm the new it/
new shit that's exclusive when I brew hits/
suffered a handicap and still pimp with a cool limp/

Same venom drafted on Stan Lee's drawing board/
an artistic carnivore presenting ya'll the art of war/
maybe I'm wasting time by even sharing this speech/
a simple middle finger would keep the pelican brief/

by J.See

I Am A Writer....(August 2nd, 2010)

2010-08-02T21:30:00.003-04:00

When I touch your heart, its starts pumping a new pace/
every track I lace with verse is a labeled a cold case/
lyrical figure eights are the statements of my mission/
listen close to my diction, its a worldwide addiction/

Red Dead Redemption with a green house effect/
put you on game to the known to the New Danger like Mos Def/
the fake want a rep while the vets just want respect/
in a water world where most are afraid of getting wet/

106th and park ordered pecks causing fear/
to a sound bomb that only Helen Keller would hear/
terminator salvation sported in the illustration/
His story's coming of age, ya'll missing the page/

Future-rama antics returning back to the basics/
for best strategy to take on Skynet and the Matrix/
heavenly mind set but its hell that I'm raising/
is it my imagination or maybe a confirmation/

Homeboy Sandman (Calm Tornado)

2010-08-02T16:43:00.001-04:00

Lupe (BMF)

2010-08-02T16:28:00.001-04:00

It's Bigger Than Hip-Hop

2010-04-19T15:47:00.002-04:00

Dead Prez is performing tonight at the Engine Room. Hope to see you all there!
It's not officially summertime but I'm happy to be back in the Florida Sunshine for a while. Enjoy...

The Last Birdie

2010-04-05T17:27:00.004-04:00

Traffic is stupid here in the country. Saw a lot of Rolls Royces today. Made me think of a song. Want to hear it? Here it go...

Ahhh yes! Shiny suits. I kinda want Tiger to win it just to shut people up and say in there face. Who's your Caddy!? They made a movie about it want to see it here it go.

Sown Seeds

2010-04-01T06:15:00.003-04:00

It's been a minute since we last chatted hasn't it? Yours truly has been trying to get her "grown woman" on. During my time in Tallahassee my team and I have shed many tears and sweat to help continue to build the hip-hop community through radio, community service, and dope ass shows. I must say that the seeds that we toiled over are now starting to sprout. Check out this video and Support local talent. Also peep Hollis Ave after the jump. PEACE Love and Hairgrease!

Method Man Ft Ghostface Killah, Raekwon - Our Dreams

2010-02-11T23:58:00.001-05:00

KRS-One ft Redman and Mims how to be a emcee 2010

2010-02-11T23:47:00.002-05:00

DJ Kool Herc: (The culture is nothing without him)

2010-01-09T11:31:00.002-05:00

Clive Campbell (born April 16, 1955), also known as Kool Herc, DJ Kool Herc and Kool DJ Herc, is a Jamaican-born DJ who is credited with originating hip hop music, in the Bronx, New York City. His playing of hard funk records of the sort typified by James Brown was an alternative both to the violent gang culture of the Bronx and to the nascent popularity of disco in the 1970s. In 1972, in response to the reactions of his dancers, Campbell began to isolate the instrumental portion of the record which emphasized the drum beat—the "break"—and switch from one break to another to yet another.

Using the two turntable set-up of the disco DJs, Campbell's style led to the use of two copies of the same record to elongate the break. This breakbeat DJing, using hard funk, rock, and records with Latin percussion, formed the basis of hip hop music. Campbell's announcements and exhortations to dancers helped lead to the syncopated, rhymed spoken accompaniment now known as rapping. He called his dancers "break-boys" and "break-girls", or simply b-boys and b-girls. Campbell's DJ style was quickly taken up by figures such as Afrika Bambaataa and Grandmaster Flash. Unlike them, he never made the move into commercially recorded hip hop in its earliest years.

At parties in the recreation room at Sedgwick Avenue, DJ Kool Herc developed the style that was the blueprint for hip hop music. Herc used two copies of the same record to focus on a short, heavily percussive, part in it: the "break". Since this part of the record was the one the dancers liked best, Herc isolated and prolonged it. As one record reached the end of the break, he cued the other record back to the beginning of the break, thereby extending a relatively small part of a record into a "five-minute loop of fury". This innovation had its roots in what he called "The Merry-Go-Round"—a switching from break to break done at the height of the party. Herc told The New York Times he first introduced the Merry-Go-Round into his sets in 1972. The earliest known Merry-Go-Round involved playing James Brown's "Give It Up or Turnit A Loose" (with its refrain, "Now clap your hands! Stomp your feet!"), then switching from its break into the break from "Bongo Rock" by The Incredible Bongo Band, and from "Bongo Rock"'s break into that of "The Mexican" by the English rock band Babe Ruth. Kool Herc also contributed to developing the rhyming style of hip hop by punctuating the music with slang phrases from the DJ's microphone: "Rock on, my mellow!" "B-boys, b-girls, are you ready?" "This is the joint!" "To the beat, y'all!" "You don't stop!". For his contributions Herc is called a "founding father of hip hop,"[14][15] a "nascent cultural hero," and an integral part of the beginnings of hip hop by Time.

On August 11, 1973, DJ Kool Herc was a Disc Jockey and Emcee at a party in the recreation room at Sedgwick Avenue.[19] It was not the actual "Birthplace of Hip Hop" -- the genre developed slowly in several places in the 1970s -- it was verified to be the place where one of the pivotal and formative events occurred. Specifically, DJ Kool Herc: extended an instrumental beat (breaking or scratching) to let people dance longer (break dancing) and began MC’ing (rapping) during the extended breakdancing. ... [This] helped lay the foundation for a cultural revolution.

One day we'll have true Unity

2010-01-06T22:58:00.002-05:00

2010: It's Here!

2010-01-05T22:37:00.005-05:00

Well, the New Year is finally here and all of the after effects of watching a ball full of lights drop, drinking, kissing strangers or a loved one, watching college football bowl games, making resolutions and plans for the new year, and of course partying.....it's time to get the ball rolling.

How will this year be different from last year? A lot of people are probably asking themselves that question, and with a new set of 365 days, the element of the unexpected is always lurking. In matters concerning Hip Hop........how will it get better or how could it get worse? What artist will make the biggest impact? Who will release a project that earns the respectable title of "Album of the Year"? Who is the artist that is right under the radar but will command your attention by the end of the year? These are just a couple of the questions that have crossed my mind and I'm sure that it is a shared thought. If I had to name the top 5 emcees in the game right now, it would be:

1. Crooked I (West Coast Lyrical King......you really need to check out what dude be spitting)
2. Elzhi (Has the right to Brag Swag)
3. Kam Moye (AKA Supastition)
4. Reks (This dude has been ripping tracks so hard for the past few years and is really overlooked)
5. Blu (Whenever heads get done with all those fantasy rap tracks, come listen to reality...4 real)

Now, I'm sure a lot of ya'll are looking at the list and saying how could I leave out Jay Electronica, Sean Price, Phonte, Joell Ortiz, Senor Kaos, and even Lil Wayne or Drake.......but I listed the Emcees that I zone out too the most. Feel free to list your top 5 in the comments field...it's all love. Bottom line, I'm am looking forward to a lot of cats putting it down for the home base we all call Hip Hop and I, myself will do my part in making a solid contribution to this beautiful art we live and even die for.

Let's have a great year! Maybe Detox will even get released this year............we have been waiting.

Peace and Blessings,
Mr. Cummings

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45fviJq3gsM

10yr Ann Beatz & Lyrics Show (A3C) Mixtape‏

2009-12-08T23:04:00.004-05:00

Download Link:
https://download.yousendit.com/Z01OSlI5NEhKV01LSkE9PQ

In a grand link of the A3C and the 10 year anniversary of the Beats and Lyrics show, 40 emcees, producers, and musicians came together to put together a project in the span of 3 days. The project is a excellent example of what Hip Hop can produce when creative minds come together to give music to the people. Check it out. Bless!

YAY 4 DILLA DAY!

2009-10-19T23:20:00.002-04:00

Celebrate past life of James "JayDee/ J Dilla" Yancey, New Life of former host of UGR Amond Jackson's son Dilla Premier Wonder Jackson, and BEAT THE SHIT OUT OF THIS MOFO NAME LUPUS. Drop kicking autoimmune diseases and being in the mist of good folk. Can't beat that.
Click here for more info

Stahhr is "Still Dope"

2009-10-09T21:30:00.005-04:00

Check out the new video of our sistren Stahhr The F.E.M.C.E.E. She's been holding it down in The ATL for awhile and wanted to let y'all know that she's Still Dope. This track is featured on MF Doom's latest release,"Born Like This". Shout out to DJ Blak Magic and host of Beats & Lyrics Show Jay Force for directing and production credits. Oh yeah shout out to Amond Jackson, former host of UGR, for making a cameo. Check Check Check it out!

VOTE

2009-09-12T18:38:00.004-04:00

Rate My Professor and MTVu Woodie Awards are asking who has the best College Radio Station. Well, you know the answer. WVFS of course. Type in the call letters or click on Florida and vote for WVFS 89.7FM the Voice of the FSU and the people. V89 on air everyday 24/7 365 defeating evil since 1987. YEAUH!

CLICK HERE

Throw Back

2009-08-30T20:52:00.001-04:00

I'm ready on the right, left, front, back. Geah geah geah geah!

The Hip-Hop Wars

2009-08-24T15:50:00.003-04:00

Great Interview of Tricia Rose done by Tavis Smiley. They discuss her new book The Hip-Hop Wars. Sista is droppin' knowledge. Learn something.

Cipher @ V89

2009-08-16T04:33:00.005-04:00

Found these. May be a future classic so remember where you saw it first. I was in the dj booth with my fingers crossed that we were going to be free of F*bombs. We were. Freestyling without cursing can be difficult but, it is a standard here. Freestyling is crucial. Heck even I freestlye to exercise my brain not really to spazz out. It's fun if you know what your doing. Oh, and if you call yourself a rapper this is a must.

That's cool but uh...

2009-08-15T04:34:00.001-04:00

YOU GOTTA HAVE SOUL! IF IT DON'T FIT YOU MUSTA QUIT

The Greatest

2009-06-27T01:03:00.002-04:00

R.I.P. to Michael Jackson. One of the greatest entertainers that ever walked (and moonwalked) this Earth. Mike had a huge impact on everyone including hip-hop. Ran across this chart on the net wanted to SHARE.

Hip Hop Monthly at Sluggo's

2009-06-01T23:58:00.004-04:00

If you don't know by now then you need to get yourself up on game. Every month in Pensacola, FL, Hip Hop has a grand scale party and showcase at Sluggo's. Hosted by Big Lo with DJ Acrojam on the tables, talent such as Inferno, Gameplan, Troublesome, Rufat, Isreal, Dead Broke Records (E&J and Jay-C), and many more blaze the stage with the hot lyrics and classic Hip Hop production. The show last Friday served as the one year anniversary and none of the performers let the crowd down as the torch of the culture had a reason to burn bright. Now that you know a little something something...................let's keep you in the loop.

-Mr. Cummings

Eminem : Relapse (Review)

2009-05-28T01:05:00.003-04:00

Say what you want about the often described as "The Great White Hope" of Hip Hop, Marshall Mathers aka Slim Shady aka Eminem is one of the best artist that has ever picked up a microphone. Critics will say that his material is just about drugs, his problems with his mom, and being white trailer trash and while they are right to some extent, they are missing the point of his true genius.

The album title "Relapse" can be taken in many ways. The obvious is the battle with an addiction to drugs which Eminem covers from his personal standpoint about what has been going on in his life for the past three years. However the term relapse can also define the return to something else, and in this case for Hip Hop, it meant the return of a truly entertaining album. Biggie said it best in a interview fromt the movie, "The Show": "This is meant to be fun"! While listening to the album Relapse the listener is taken on a journey of dealing with an drug problem, family problems, loss of a dear friend, and just demented thoughts that can creep into the mind when in a depressed state. Yet, it is the fact that Eminem's Slim Shady persona has taken over the controls this go around which is what makes the album really enjoyable. Point blank, Eminem can rap! The rhyme schemes that are put together throughout the whole project can be matched by very few with the ease that he seems to deliver them into the mic. The imagiantion that serves as the foundation for his songs is the bait that will hook you in. Without boossting about it, Eminem does craft "Relapse" as a campaign that he is one of the game's best, like it or not.

As a fan, I was skeptical like most probably were as some artist have just not delivered that ALBUM that met the needs of their fans or peeked serious interest from others who may have been unaware. This album will indeed get your attention in some shape or form. The production which is credited mostly towards Dr. Dre is ear candy track after track. There are some tracks which have replay value based on the beat alone based on the fact that you'll be suprised at the many different sounds were used to create the beat you are hearing. Bottom line, "Relapse is a pretty solid album and will make you have a relapse for artist to start truly being artistic again.

Peace and Blessings

-Mr. Cummings

M-P's Music Picks

2009-05-18T17:48:00.007-04:00

What up doe it's ya boy M-P!!!! (The one in orange lol...) Decided to push back my music picks a little bit since the summer semester just got started. I will keep it short and to the point so let's get to it....

Rapper Big Pooh-The Delightful Bars: North American Pie Version

When one is a member of an acclaimed duo, it is often hard to match the level of success when one decides to branch out for solo efforts. It seems that Thomas Jones aka Rapper Big Pooh has found a way to duplicate the recipe of his style as one-half of the veteran rap group Little Brother and serve it again with The Delightful Bars, his latest solo album. Most fans appreciate Little Brother for their down-to-earth approach to hip-hop and their simplistic yet sophisticated style of lyricism and song-making. Pooh follows these prinicpals with The Delightful Bars, but at the same time cleverly uses sex appeal to add flavor to the look and feel of both the album art and sound of the album itself. Using the term eye candy literally and figuratively, multiple versions of the album have a nude model sprinkled with candy. The intro has a woman with a Girl 6-esque voice describing a new candy in a manner that would make any red-blooded male rush to the nearest store! The carnal innuendo displayed is not new by any stretch of the imagination, but is done slyly to also allude to Pooh's skill as an emcee. Track 2 titled "The Comeback" shows just what Pooh's real bars are for-listening in sweet pleasure. He describes people that are fareweather in the crazy universe called the music industry and also in life. While Pooh touches on many subjects previously discussed in LB records, he also gives his fans substantial persepectives on quality hip-hop, female groupies, stardom, reflection, and success through failures.

Standout tracks include:

Step Up
Reality Check featuring Big Dho, D. Black and Mykestro
Rearview Mirror

Pros: Plethora of quality beats-from traditional to new age-matched with strong features from Justus League associates

Cons: Album has alot-direction, good sound, and great assistance-except for an unforgettable performance by the lead performer

Personally, Big Pooh is a good emcee but not anything special. However, there are two things about him that as an artist I have come to realize makes him quite viable. One, his steady yet staggered flow matches very well with the soulful, mid-tempo beats provided by Justus League members 9th Wonder and Khrysis. Two, Pooh delivers good punchlines of his own every once in awhile but sets up songs for other emcees to showcase themselves much like a middle reliever will play to get to the set-up/closer in a baseball game. He doesn't necessarily dominate your attention as a listener on songs with features, which is actually good when you hear the outcome of the records he makes. The best features are from Brooklynite Torae and surprisingly Watts newcomer Jay Rock, who like Lil Wayne on a previous LB track "Don't Break My Heart" crosses the train tracks to test his might with some underground veterans. Dae One, The Co-Op, and Jake One also make strong contributions to the sound of the album. For those that want an album where a rapper blows you away with scintillating lyrics or multiple cadences and flow patterns, you might not be satisfied. But if you are a fan of LB's and Justus League's textbook brand of hip-hop, The Delightful Bars will definetely do justice for your sweet tooth.

MYSPACE-www.myspace.com/rapperbigpooh
TWITTER-http://twitter.com/RapperBigPooh
WEB-www.hallofjustus.com

Jay-C Presents The Previews (Mixtape)

If I had a dollar for every person I met that had aspirations to be a successful rap recording artist, I think I would be smiling alot more during this economic recession. Too often I see people, especially young people, see rap as a means to become financially well-off instead of expressing themselves as a talented artist or speaking to a truth that is prevalent in the world around them. Few artists, no matter how inherently gifted, can become noteworthy without dedicating themselves to their craft and building their skill through practice, time, and knowledge of their peers. In my experiences out of all the guys that I've met that tell me "I'm rapping" few of them made me even believe their statement, let alone garner my respect as an artist. James Cummings, aka Jay-C is the exception to my "typical rapper" rule. This Golden State native has not only an affinity for the well-known sound that defines the Left Coast but also an appreciation for classic albums like Illmatic, Ready To Die, and The Blueprint. The affinity for high-grade rap music is what puts him as a kindred spirit to a Snoop, Game, or Crooked I in a way that some of his L.A. comrades simply cannot. His background is simlar to many acclaimed artists and entertainers from L.A. His family's home was recently used as a backdrop in a neighborhood where the aforementioned Jay Rock's "All My Life" video was shot. So his perception of reality is akin to many others. At the same time, while moving to Florida for college and living in a university environment, as well as traveling frequently, he was able to fully engage his mind on all areas of art, culture, and the human experience. This in-depth look on the world of the rich and the poor, the successful and down-trodden, the carefree and the desperate, has molded him into the man he is today. When he decided to become a professional recording artist, these experiences were coupled with a biology student's type of work ethic for producing metaphors and punchlines. The Previews is an introduction to Jay-C as an emcee and it is one that shows he has done his homework. The mixtape is nine tracks long and made almost in the muse of a staged play. The intro track has more lyical punch than the average rapper's entire album. An example of his dictionary diligence is this sample "Life is a bitch/That's why I'm flirting with her sister/Tryna get her poppin' just like a fever blister/Used to be wild/But never was labeled idle/Decipher my lyrics just like the scriptures from the bible". The beats chosen on the mixtape vary but except for "Are You Ready For This?" mostly are formatted in a tru-school template to accentuate the artist and differentiate him from the current rap scene. Most importantly, the artist seems to want to make the listener think not only about his rhymes, but about the entire mixtape and how it is giving subliminal commentary on the state of rap and his visions on it with the use of skits within tracks before the artist's actual songs begin.

Standout tracks include:

Peanuts featuring Merc from Kumi Hues and E&J from Dead Broke Records
Now Or Never

Pros: Lyrical lexicon is very strong for an upstart, avant-garde approach to musical selection

Cons: Production highlights artists vocabulary but hinders his voice and cadence

This is the mixtape for the rapper's rapper. It also is what a demo/mixtape should sound like from a serious artist who wants to make an impression on the rap scene. If The Previews was a required literary piece to a class, it would be the one that if studied long and hard, will give you what you need to amass the beginning knowledge on what a good rapper can be when they stay true to the craft.

MYSPACE-www.myspace.com/deadbrokerecordsllc

The Cool Kids-Gone Fishing (Mixtape)

Simply put, I'm feeling The Cool Kids!! Since I heard the Cool Ass Ninjas mixtape that dropped in 2008 I was sold on the duo from the midwest. Their style meshes a vintage 80's-90's beat style and fashion sense with millenium delivery patterns and pizzazz. Their critical acclaim is garnering attention all over, from music spots in Rhapsody commericals to video games like NBA Live 08 and MLB 2K8. With the continued outreach of different subgenre entites we get Gone Fishing, a 21-track mixtape hosted by gangsta rap aficionado DJ Don Cannon of Aphilliates Music Group and Gangsta Grillz Series fame. The mixtape is simply dope! They rap about sneakers, clothes, cars, and girls, subjects I find appealing along with many 20-something rap fans. They also rap about their respective upbringings and hip-hop culture in a retro way that allows them to channel 1988 but still make you feel like you are in 2008(2009 technically).

Standout tracks include:

Hammer Bros.
Champions
Pennies(the updated roster remix) featuring Bun-B and Ludacris
Weekend Girls featuring Ryan Leslie
Summer Vacations

Pros: Fresh lyrics, Better music, renowned DJ giving drops, comical interludes, what more can you ask for??

Cons: ???????

What makes this mixtape so special is that they balance their normal subject matter and song style with current happenings-NBA Playoffs and the season of summer steadily approaching. DJ Don Cannon said "We going four game sweep all the way through the playoffs straight to the Finals...We are the champions!" More mixtapes like this and this statement is sure to hold true for the pair that met on new-age technology tool myspace to revitalize the classic elements of good hip-hop music.

MYSPACE-www.myspace.com/thecoolkids
www.myspace.com/mikeyrockss
www.myspace.com/inglish
WEB-http://coolxkids.com/
TWITTER-http://twitter.com/coolxkids

That's it for May! Make sure to listen in every Saturday from 5-8pm for the best old school, new school, and true school hip-hop in Tallahassee and the State of Florida! Much peace!!!!

-M-P #1 Hip-Hop Fan

Food For Thought

2009-05-14T16:05:00.003-04:00

Somedays we need food for the soul!

-Isrealite

Droppin' Jewels Droppin' Science

2009-05-09T05:21:00.001-04:00

STILL RELEVANT. LEARN SOMETHING.

~You can call me Jam

Straight Talk

2009-05-07T05:52:00.003-04:00

So Questlove was on twitter and stated that there was this dope interview with band mate Black Thought. He was right. I must say BT is very eloquent. Check it OUT

Here is one of the movies he is acting in.

Key word Gentrification: It's going on right now in Tallahassee (Frenchtown)

Later,
Acrojam Herself

Florida To The Rescue!!!!

2009-05-01T00:16:00.004-04:00

CRS. Some hip-hop fans might think that the acronym is for a rumored super-group featuring Kanye, Lupe, and Pharrell. But many others, some who might not even listen to hip-hop, know that Child Rebel Soldiers are words that have horrendous implications across the world, especially in the continent of Africa. A dirty secret in many of the recent conflicts in the motherland is that children as young as 10 are killing and being killed over issues they have no control over. Such is the case in Northern Uganda, where Joseph Kony and the Lord's Resistance Army has been responsible for the abduction of more than 20,000 children since the late 1980s.

One group formed in America to bring awareness to these injustices is Invisible Children, Inc. Invisible Children was founded in 2005 by San Diego filmmakers Jason Russell, Bobby Bailey, and Loren Poole. Since the creation of their highly acclaimed film on the subject, the organization has continued to raise awareness on the plight of children in Uganda and has also developed programs to gain the assistance of others to join in on the efforts. One of them is The Rescue, a worldwide event staged in over 100 cities on Sat. April 25th, where thousands abducted themselves for one night and waited to be rescued, to represent the thousands of abducted child soldiers. The event could be monitored at therescue.invisiblechildren.com and a live web feed on mogulus.com. One of the participating cities was none other than Florida's capital city, and The Underground Railroad was there to observe and report the efforts and broadcast them live on our show.

College students from all three campuses in Tally as well as all over Florida came to the event, and I had the pleasure of interviewing nine students live on-air so they could share their perspectives on why they felt it necessary to participate in The Rescue. Patience Kaysee, President of FSU African Students' Organization, Amy Derringer, FSU President of Invisible Children, Noreen Zobel, UF President of Invisible Children, James Arinaitwe, Former President of FSU African Students' Organzation and native of Uganda, Sha'ron Anderson, FAMU Executive Board Member of Invisible Children, Robert Kennedy, Vice-President of Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society and collegiate resident of Bradenton, FL, Rashida Brown, Treasurer for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. @ FSU, Michael Bailey, President for Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. @ FSU, and Keith Johnson, President for Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. @ FSU all explained in their own way why they wanted to be a part of The Rescue, and why others should become aware of what is happening in Uganda. The experience was truly humbling to see members of the collegiate community caring about something that is happening thousands of miles away from them. UGR actually interviewed Mr. Arinaitwe previously on-air and came out to DJ and support an event sponsored by Mr. Bailey's and Ms. Kaysee's organizations on campus. This is an example of young people using their resources for good. Take note and please educate yourself on child rebel soldiers in Uganda. BTW, shout-out to Lauren Bazan, Regional Assistant and Event Coordinator for Invisible Children HQ. Keep up the good work and bring more events to the Tallahassee area. M-P's Music Picks coming soon. Take care and much peace!!!!!!

-M-P #1 Hip-Hop Fan

Fave 5............

2009-04-29T15:56:00.025-04:00

I must say that I have been amused by these Fave 5 commericals on T.V. It kinda sparked a idea. What if there was a Fave 5 emcees? Who would be in your Fave 5? Here's mines:

Elzhi

Jay Electronica

Blu

Planet Asia

Andre 3k

And I guess i had to add 1 just because he never fails but .................

Crooked I

So who is in your Fave 5?................ and i dare someone to pick a better 5

-Isreali

NASA: The Spirit of Apollo (Review)

2009-04-26T11:48:00.005-04:00

The world does consist of many elements that induces the cycle of life in different forms. NASA's debut album, "The Spirit of Apollo" aims to bring many different sounds of music and put it on a Hip Hop platform. Like the first landing on the Moon, "Mission Accomplished". The track listing for the album reads like an NBA All-Star game roster with features by the likes of:

KRS-One

Chali 2na

Z-Trip

Method Man

RZA

Ol' Dirty Bastard (R.I.P.)

Scarface

Santogold

Chuck D

M.I.A.

and many more.

Throughout the project you get the feeling that NASA is heavily influenced by George Clinton and the Parliament Funkadelic based on the production which packs soul funk grooves into a majority of the songs. So it comes to no surprise that George Clinton appears on the track "There's a Party" with Chali 2na which sums up the theme of the album: Life is meant to be enjoyable for all.

No matter what type of genre of music you like or who your favorite artist may be, NASA goes beyond the realms of the norm that is usually received with Hip Hop and provides a melodic range as sweet as a game winning jump shot. It's Good!

Peace and Blessings!

-Mr. Cummings

World Music: A Merging Of Two Genres @ Florida State University

2009-04-21T22:04:00.014-04:00

On Friday, April 17th, 2009, in Dohyanni Recital Hall on the campus of FSU, my perception of music was forever changed. Gregory Mardirosian, or DJ Maniac Magee as seen above right, and
Haiqiong Deng illuminated the many possibilities of artistry in a rare seen live combination of classical chinese ensemble music coupled with hip-hop DJing. Deng, Assitant Professor and Director of School of Music's Chinese Ensemble at Florida State University, is a world-renowned perfomer on the zheng instrument. Mardirosian, Instructor of Hip-hop Music & Culture: An American Artistic Tradition at Florida State University, is an accomplished and well-traveled DJ that has made professional appearances in St. Thomas. Both have recorded albums, the latter a recent mixtape with artists within the Tallahassee area. The as-yet untitled project the two are developing may well affect music over the entire world. During Deng's spring ensemble, they showcased themselves to an audience for the first time. Using the instrumental track "Quiet Storm" by Mobb Deep, a breath-taking introduction to their creation was revealed. The dramatics of the aforementioned song's dark piano backdrop and low bass merged seamlessly with the beautiful string notes. The zheng's pace moved in sync with the syncopation of the scratches and cuts, as well as the beat of the audio. Next, Deng used quicker and more deliberate notes to match the southern hip-hop infused instrumental track "Crunklah" by Cynicus. To complete the performance, DJ Maniac Magee used the instrumental tracks "Walk In My Shoes" and "I Am The Truth" mixing artists Emily King ft. Notorious B.I.G. and AZ together over lovely melodies from the zheng. What impressed me so much was how the zheng instrument's ability was showcased simultaneously as multiple instruments. The zheng would sometimes sound like a piano, then an acoustic guitar, then a violin in what seemed like two-three minute intervals at a time. The turntable/laptop set-up Magee used allowed him to hone in on the zheng's classical lead like a dance partner, and then smoothly transition it to another audio plane! Be sure to stop these great visionaries when you see them walking on campus and thank them for their awesome collaboration!! Below you will find links to more info on the pair just in case you wanted it. Hopefully sometime in the future UGR will be able to present to you more of their work. Good luck with finals coming up and much peace!!!!!

HAIQIONG DENG:

http://www.chinesezheng.com/bio.html

DJ MANIAC MAGEE:

www.myspace.com/djmaniacmagee

www.roughhousetactics.com

-M-P #1 Hip-Hop Fan

"Biggie"

2009-04-21T08:56:00.004-04:00

As a Cali cat I must admit that I really am a big fan of The Notorious B.IG.. The conflict that he has with Tupac was a personal score that I feel got blown out of proporations and probably robbed the world of two highly talented artists who had layers of their being which came to life in their music. Well, today the movie "Notorious" is being released on DVD. In my opinion it is a must have for the collection and getting a bootleg version wouldn't go one of the greats in the game justice. Wish you were here BIG, I can only imagine the type of music you would be releasing and how high you would have set the bar.

-Mr. Cummings

Never Judge a Book by its Cover!

2009-04-15T09:44:00.005-04:00

We live in the times in which we are always quick to make opinions about people before we know what they are truly about. I'll admit that I have been guilty myself in the past but I have learned that you can unlock the true beauty of a person by giving all a fair chance to connect with you and show what they have to offer, (I'm sure we have all been in both set of shoes). This is proof in the pudding that attractive traits are based on the content of character.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY

click the link to see what I am talking about

-Mr. Cummings

(((Ayo!)))

2009-04-14T21:29:00.002-04:00

Happy belated birthday to UGR member E&J (((Bluhhhhhhh)))
Let's take the show to the next level!

You can call me Jam.

4-20 Sessions

2009-04-14T09:28:00.004-04:00

4-20 is almost here again. For those that are up on game this is like another holiday. If you are celebrating and in the Tallahassee area, check out the 4-20 Sessions being held at Club Down Below. The show should be pretty live with performance by Certified Official, Leaf Qwembi & Oplex, SBE, DVS Wun, Maniac Magee, The Urban Poet, and many more. Have a "Blazin" good time, :-)

-Mr. Cummings

M-P's Music Picks

2009-04-07T09:39:00.007-04:00

What up everybody!!! It's M-P here with my music picks for the month of April. This time around we have a pair of rappers representing the Old Dominion as well as one born on the other side of the pond.

RUFAT-Everything's Lame

If it isn't already apparent, then after this blog it should be clear that there is some hidden talent walking around campuses in Tallahassee. Another gem to rise is Rufat, hailing from the DMV area. Having previously appeared on one of The Underground Railroad's infamous ciphers, he summons the assistance of our host DJ Acrojam to launch Everything's Lame, a mixtape aimed to question the industry's status quo and introduce the world to a higher quality of sound. The mixtape has a few skits and opens cleverly with a Family Guy interpolation that helps you understand the backdrop and thinking behind the muse. Soon, though, Rufat gets to work with the title track, where he fires "That's the way I feel/Way it is/Like Wayne's Damon/The lyrics is my wife and kids/And that means I'm Euro-training...My skills on the treadmill/They dumbbells compared to me/I'm an anvil" over the instrumental "Everybody" by Fonzworth Bentley, Andre 3000, Kanye West and Sa-Ra. A blistering track titled ''Real vs. Real" follows, and by the fourth track "Tell It" featuring Petey Greene you wonder if your ears will last from all the excitement for seventeen more!!! Rufat covers many topics covered by artists past and present such as his skill level, opinion of the rap game, women, and society. It is how he covers it and the music that he uses to help him cover it which makes this tape interesting. Many of the songs, especially those with some social commentary, have 1960's and 1970's soul-driven beats behind them which validates the Petey Greene reference. It is evident that Rufat is a listener of many genres, especially jazz music, and this broad background works well in his music without seeming forced.

Standout tracks include:

Real vs Real
Tell It Featuring Petey Greene
Hardtimes Featuring Whuzi
Farewell W.
Everything's Still Lame

Pros:

Soul/funk sound coupled with Neptunes-esque pizzazz creates an awesome canvass for the rapper. Lyrical content and dexterity are definitely on par

Cons:

Half-paced delivery sometimes is stagnant and stale, highlighted on up-tempo tracks. Many tracks are begging for the hook to be done by a sweeter-tuned singer

In addition to DJ Acrojam, ATS Affiliate Whuzi chimes in on the tape with some nice bars of his own. Nickelus F and EJ of the duo Cheap Thrills (which is also introduced on Everything's Lame) are the other features. I really enjoyed this mixtape mostly because Rufat is taking a page from a personal fave, Lupe Fiasco, in showcasing an affinity for other genres of music but allowing it to positively influence his style of hip-hop. The mixtape Everything's Lame is set to launch today so go get yourself a copy!!!!

FACEBOOK-RUFAT AGAYEV
TWITTER-RUFLY
MYSPACE-WWW.MYSPACE.COM/RUFAT

EL PREZIDINO-The Illness EP

Revealing The Illness, Virginia rapper EL Prezidino shows quite a penchant for boasting and calling out media outlets. But all of The Prez's tales aren't of bragging and bravado. The rapper shows a keen eye for the college scene with "Athletes and Frat Boys" featuring daade, a song dedicated to the foolish feline that fancies BMOC's.

Standout tracks include:

Monster
BFF

Pros:

Well-thought analysis of self helps listener attach themselves to the artist

Cons:

Production is hit or miss; with same word rhyme matches EL Prezidino's lyrical bark is often worse than his bite

El Prezidino's The Illness EP is a good start for the self-proclaimed former athlete turned musician. With some sword sharpening and better production, The Prez's cure may be a dose worth taking.

WEB-WWW.PREZIDINO.COM
MYSPACE-WWW.MYSPACE.COM/PREZIDINO
TWITTER-PREZIDINO

DOOM-Born Like This

One of the most intriguing and controversial emcees in the game today is back to cause mayhem!! UK-born, NY-bred Viktor Vaughn aka MF Doom, or now just DOOM, recently dropped Born Like This, an eighteen-track comic of an album where we see DOOM up to his usual villianry. It is worth mentioning that some of the tracks on Born Like This have been featured on previous projects, such as "Angelz" featuring Tony Starks. This song which is slated number nine on Born Like This is also track number 23 on the 2006 compilaton Hip-Hop Docktrine: The Official Boondocks Mixtape. Another nice tidbit is that DOOM used the late great J-Dilla's beat from the instrumental hip-hop album Donuts to create his version of the track "Lightworks".

Standout tracks include:

Yessir! Featuring Raekwon
Rap Ambush
Still Dope Featuring Empress Stahhr
Microwave Mayo
That's That

As I am still learning to fully appreciate DOOM's stream-of-consciousness style that garners Raekwon and Ghostface Killah high respect in the annals of rap, I do find that DOOM spends alot of time delving in some of the activities that more successful mainstream artists get chastised for (misogyny, homophobia, etc.). Seriously though, what would you expect from The SuperVillian? With a catalogue well in the double-digits Daniel Dumile doesn't dissapoint his core fanbase with his latest(and first) album as DOOM with Born Like This. Let's just hope he doesn't have another Doombot fiasco.

Before I go, I want to send a big what up to The KING for NOT, I REPEAT NOT, BEING A SNITCH, and also continuing to inspire and mentor youth before and during his current legal woes. I know God has big plans for Kings like us homey!!! Check out the new VIBE for the full details on T.I.P. Much Peace!!

-M-P #1 Hip-Hop Fan

Go Hard Like Boom! I mean Doom!

2009-04-05T01:10:00.003-04:00

Wish more rappers would hear this song.

Please disregard the random (some what out of place) pictures

There you go!

UGR loves MF DM!

Sharpening Swords

2009-04-02T11:56:00.003-04:00

Sharpening swords is a phrase often used by MCs when describing practice of writing and/or reciting rhymes, especially around other fellow MCs. Besides interviewing people and playing great music, holding "MC ciphers" is an often occurrence on our show. A cipher is where MCs will gather collectively in a circle and take turns rhyming, usually a cappella. Our version is less of a circle and more like a half-oval with audio equipment to project on the radio. Oh yeah, and we also have an in-house DJ, my man A to the L, to lace us with beats galore while we go off. Many rappers choose to "go off the top" which means freestyle or rap unrehearsed rhymes instantaneously. Some others use rehearsed or pre-written rhymes during a planned cipher session, while most choose to use a combination of both methods. Personally, I find that doing a combination of both works best. Whatever your preference, as long as it sounds hot, it's all good. This tidbit is just another reason to tune in every Saturday from 5-8pm for the best hip-hop in the capital city!!! Shouts out to D.A. of the HB Fraternity (FAMU), Stess Da Emcee (Blazin' 102.3) and Tetrus (TCC/FSU) for doing their thing this past Saturday. Be on the lookout for my album reviews coming soon. Much Peace!!!!!

-Ariel "M-P" #1 Hip-Hop Fan

The Good -vs-The Bad

2009-03-20T15:27:00.005-04:00

Now it seems that everyone is tired of hip hop right????Huricane Chris,Soulja Boy,Yung Joc,Yung Jeezy and whateva other rapper named yung sumthing or lil sumthin(that should damn near cover most of the wack emcees out there right now).No more snap rap,crunk rap,dope boy raps riiighhhhttttt????Yeah right,cus the same people that complain about what the fuc is wrong wit hip hop cant give a remedy.The same ones that want to see more creativity and when they get it they call it ...trash,spacey,wierd,crazy...i.e common's electric circus,gnarles barkley,even the love below before everyone jumped on 3000's didick.And outkast is the only ones that get a pass now because everone is on the bandwagon now.....but when Atliens(a certified classic) came out everyone was like what the fuc is wrong wit dre...badu got him turned out...but now its like ohhhh yeah that nigga can rip...but he been rippin...he changed his named to 3000 for a reason.but people hated on the love below when it dropped...why he signing..why this why that...not this is creative as hell...hiphop fans hate to grow and to see artists grow.Common dropped electric circus and people had the nerve to call the album garbage cus he decided to explore more musically..IT WAS NOT A HIP HOP ALBUM..it was a soul album pure music...now tell me how a album that had the likes of j dilla,james posyer,the neptunes,questlove,th ummah,d'angelo,badu,cee-lo,and the rest of the soul aquarians on production for the whole album and be wack is a mystery.No one out that group ever put out any wack shit.Musically it was great.If you dont know who those people are then you need to get up on your ish...And if i hear another poet talk shit about hip hop and cant tell me who jay dilla is.... i am gon bust they shit wide open...Get the fuc off the radio dial..dig for good music..search for quality..its not on commercial radio...anyway i dont want to ramble but holla back and let me know why hip hop fans accept anything but wont accept quality artists growing...Peace

Isreal

TEAMWORK TO MAKE THE DREAMWORK

-the views of the blogger represents me and me only u CRUMS!!!!

Really?

2009-03-18T23:11:00.004-04:00

So now that I have sobered up enough to think in a realistic way again (St. Patrick's Day 2009 was great), I found myself at my job talking about the new albums coming out with one of my co-workers. Now I have an appreciation for all types of music and when it comes to Hip Hop and Rap though there is a difference and they still sometimes fly the same flag, I must admit that I still like both approaches. However, 2009 is supposed to be the year in which:

Lupe drops a double cd

Jay-Z drops Blueprint 3

Dr. Dre drops Detox

Slaughterhouse drops a song every week that will turn into an album

Joell Ortiz is supposed to drop

Crooked I is supposed to drop (thank God)

J-Live is always working on something

And a host of others..............................................Yet, my co-worker feels that Rick Ross will drop the best album of the year in 2009......................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Ok, now that that has been absorbed a little bit, WTF! Besides being made a fool of for the past few months I can't fathom the so called "Boss" dropping a album that will be the best thing I hear for the entire year. I have liked some of his music in the past and he touches topics in a way that connects to his listeners but, album of the year. Terminology could drop a mix tape that will sound better than a Rick Ross album, (just being honest). This is by no ways to bash Rick Ross or his music. Like I said I have heard some tracks from him that I really enjoyed and still do but for an album to be the best it has to be something so good that people literally forget there is other music out there. There are few artist that can do that with their albums and if I were to list them I am sure Ross is not in that select group.

Bottom line, 2009 will have a lot of great music to show for it. With records sales not considered: Joe Budden, CNN, Dela, N.A.S.A, and POS (to name a few) have released some really good music this year in the early part of 2009. There is more to come and I encourage everyone to please take the time to listen to what folks are bringing to the table. You never know...............................I do know however that Rick Ross won't have the album of the year but I am confident his project will at least be solid. If not...........man these past few months have had to really suck :-)

-Mr. Cummings

Dela: Change of Atmosphere (Review)

2009-03-10T00:51:00.004-04:00

During a time when everything seems to be going bad: economy, music, A-Rod, etc......the ideal soundtrack to good vibes has been provided by Dela with "Change of Atmosphere", which is a compilation of songs put together in France by various artist.s. Crooked I said it best in a recent interview in which he said that he kind of does not like Hip Hop right now because now you have artist singing and the music is getting pulled further and further away from actual rapping, (good rapping at that). Well, thankfully there are some Emcee's who still pour their heart and soul in the mic while flowing. Setting off the project is (Hip Hop Legend) J-Live with a track called "I Say Peace". The song carries the essence of all those who try to remain positive among the sometimes overwhelming negativity that exist in dealing with the day to day. "Long Life" which is a serving of food for thought by Talib Kweli puts the the content of fake Emcee's on blast about how they are in it for the money and fame and not the overall respect for the culture.

Many will say that it feels like the game is just a dry well now but this project which is compiled by Dela is sure to hydrate the fans of real good hip hop music. It's good to know that while the art form seems to be getting worse "Changes Of Atmosphere" can be obtained with some current music that address real things going on right now.

-Mr. Cummings

Hip Hop won’t make you dumb, but Lil Wayne might (Word!)

2009-03-08T00:59:00.003-05:00

Credit goes to Aliya Ewing from Hip Hop DX for this. Was so dope that I had to share it. Much love and respect!

According to the Wall Street Journal, The 25-year-old founder of WikiScanner, a database that tracks the IP addresses of anonymous Wikipedia editors (revealing that the CIA, the Vatican, and various Congressional staff members -among others- have made edits on the site to remove potentially sensitive information) is back at it again, this time causing controversy within Hip Hop:
“Virgil Griffith used aggregated FaceBook data about the favorite bands and books among students of various colleges and plotted them against the average SAT scores at those schools, creating a tongue-in-cheek statistical look at taste and intelligence. For example, the favorite musician of the smartest students was Beethoven , with an average SAT score of 1371. Also on the “smart” end of the scale were Sufjan Stevens (1260), Counting Crows (1247), and Radiohead (1220). And sadly for Lil Wayne , enjoying his music was associated with being the dumbest, with an average SAT score of 889.”
*(please realize that this study was not scientific, and neglects to investigate multiple variables (such the artists’ rank among the list of the facebook users’ favorite artists, GPA, school rank etc). We can not conclude that Lil Wayne somehow “makes” people have lower SAT scores, because there are plenty of other possible contributing culprits. Correlation does not equal causation.)*
But lets focus on the Bigger picture which has nothing to do with whether or not Lil Wayne fans have lower SAT scores.
After reading the article, I realized that studies like this will make it easier for the so-called ‘Hip Hop police’ to point the finger at the entire genre ( “rap music makes our kids stupid”), back-tracking us to 20 years ago when rap music was the bastard child of the music industry and no one wanted to be associated with it, let alone recognize it as art…but then again, in my humble opinion, I don’t consider Lil Wayne and musicians similar to him to represent real Hip Hop so the finger can’t possibly be pointed at us. They don’t speak for all of us, and they most certainly don’t speak for me.
A few weeks ago, I posted a blog about “Hip Hop’s American Dream” which sparked heated debate amongst the readers (click on the title if you haven’t checked it out yet). So I feel that now is a great time to revisit those ideas and clarify a few things:
As much as I dislike the vast amounts of Lil Wayne -esque materialism, Hip Hop music is just as much based on bragging rights as it is about social change. Slick Rick deserves just as much respect as KRS-1 . In fact, Slick Rick made an entire career based on his conspicuous consumption. However, he was also a dope emcee. The lyrics were still ill (unlike many of today’s rappers, in my opinion). And don’t mistake it, KRS has his own tendencies of braggadocio; he just didn’t make it materialistic “Im not saying Im number one/ uh sorry I lied/I’m number one two three four and five”. That’s Hip Hop. There’s nothing “wrong” with declaring that your lyrical skills are better than the rest. Part of the Hip Hop culture is being able to defend your title as an emcee. There’s nothing “wrong” with liking to look good, or liking certain items that happen to be expensive. Part of the Hip Hop culture is also showcasing your unique sense of style. However, the point I was trying to make is that there is a time and place for everything . When we are at war, on the brink of an economic depression, and the world seems to be going through changes at a rate never before seen…why are we, the Hip Hop community, allowing our leaders to talk about their fantasy lives?
Not all music has to have a social message even in times like these. But I DO expect music without a message to still have artistic integrity and longevity. We are in need of a musical renaissance now more than ever. We are in the midst of defining times that require a defining musical soundtrack to accompany it, just as was done in the 60s, and early 70’s. WHERE IS OUR REAL MUSIC?? Of course, I can name tons of artists who are making great music right now, but that means nothing if they aren’t being heard. And they aren’t being heard because collectively, as a culture, we have not demanded them to be heard on a mainstream scale.
Rappers such as Lil Wayne are popular because we have grown complacent in our standards of Hip Hop. And if this study has any inkling of truth to it, you can see the vicious cycle it perpetuates:
For instance, Lil Wayne (or a rapper with similar musical themes and persona) makes sub-par music with themes like “making it rain”… young kids who don’t know any better (or don’t care) support it because ‘it’s just music’ and they wanna dance. Plus, everything they watch on MTV and other channels geared towards them is centered around promiscuity, materialism, and ignorance, so Lil Wayne ’s music is a soundtrack to their current lifestyles…ad agencies jump on this like piranhas because of the insane purchasing power of their demographic (according to some studies industry spending on advertising to children has exploded in the past decade, increasing from a mere $100 million in 1990 to more than $2 billion in 2000, and has been rising since then). They do hours of research and create pie charts that map out the amount of money to be made (which is a lot), then decide: if Lil Wayne is what the kids think they want , then Lil Wayne is what the kids will get. (Because if our children want to eat sugary-sweet pie until they are comatosed or vomit, we should let them, right?)….So Wayne gets crazy endorsement deals and record deals from the executives who are after cash…then after Wayne floods the airwaves, a mass group of struggling rappers who want a piece of the American pie realize that Wayne ’s style is now being slated as “the future of Hip Hop” so they start to emulate his style and musical themes…and that’s my theory on how we end up with Hip Hop’s demise and the rise of unacceptable musical leaders. Lil Wayne by far is not the first rapper to make detrimental music, but he IS one of the most visible and influential leaders of mainstream Hip Hop right now (and mentioned in Griffith ’s study), so I use him as example.
But the REAL questions are…
Are we letting the wants of children, instead of the needs of all of our people, run our Hip Hop culture? And if so, WHY ARE WE ALLOWING IT TO CONTINUE??
Who cares if this is “what the kids want”?? Why are we giving our children American pie until they vomit? Our streets STINK with the verbal diarrhea this is creating.
Why are we allowing Hip Hop’s front-runners to lead our people astray like diamond-dripped pied pipers?
You may not all agree with me, and that’s fine. But let’s try to discuss this in a constructive manner, because I’m really interested in hearing both sides of the argument.
**Update** If you are a fan of Lil Wayne or similar artist (I’m not “picking” on Wayne, he is just the figurehead); that is your choice and I respect your choices–I’m simply trying to figure out how we can create room for ALL types of rap music to have an equal playing field , so people can properly decide for themselves what they choose to consume. There’s room for ‘apple pie music’ (the music that tastes good to some, but in large doses will leave you vomiting or in a coma), but that shouldn’t be the only dietary choice we have on the mainstream media menu.
THAT is the issue…this is WAY bigger than just Lil Wayne…

-Jay-C

M-P's Music Picks

2009-03-04T20:53:00.006-05:00

Greetings!!! It's M-P with some music that has been released recently that I think is worthy of checking out. As a big fan of hip-hop I find it hard to find quality new music to listen to, so I want to help those out there like me and make the searching process a little easier. Periodically, I will highlight mixtapes and albums of hip-hop artists, whether they be MCs or DJs, mainstream or underground, international or local. If you disagree with my viewpoint or just want to add your two cents in, please feel free by adding comments in the post or emailing me: a1mp82@gmail.com. So without further ado, here are my reviews for March!

DJ Maniac Magee-SBE VS RHT (Mixtape)

Florida's capital city has multiple institutes of
highler learning where one can educate themselves on
any aspect of science, philosophy, and art. One artform
prevalent to American culture, hip-hop, can be
studied within Tallahassee classrooms and also enjoyed directly courtesy of
talented local artists. A collection of local rappers recently
collaborated to put together an interesting body of work
under the facilitation of DJ Maniac Magee, renowned turntable
maestro and instructor of hip-hop at Florida State University.
The rap duo SBE consisting of Golden State native Killa Cali and
Sunshine state native GainstaVille lead off the mixture of West Coast
and Southern infused original songs and fresh verses over mainstream
beats in this 21 track mixtape. SBE vs RHT is the answer to the queston
where does hip-hop live for those within the Panhandle area.

Standout tracks include:

West Way (SBMagee Mix)
Punch Out!
EHU
DVSBE
Faithful

Pros: Upstart lyrics from a plethora of emcees are
matched well with timely cutting and scratching work

Cons: An excess of tracks making an attempt
to attract a feminine audience weaken the
quality and concept of mixtape

Emcees Jay-C of DeadBroke Records, DVSWun, Leaf Qwembi of Planet Zoron
and Poet Alabama Blakk make strong contributions
to the mixtape. The use of a boxing concept is executed well
throughout the beginning of the collective, making the
listener part of a "main event" of good rap music. Overall,
SBE vs RHT is a must-have for the fan of good hip-hop and for
someone looking to familiarize themselves with some
of the best artists Tallahassee has to offer.

Whuzi-Kitchen Sink (EP)

The last few years have seen more melting of genres in music than possibly any era before, and hip-hop is no exception. One artist who has taken the mantle for freedom of expression is Whuzi, one-fifth of the Tallahassee band After The Smoke Entertainment. With his recently released EP Kitchen Sink, Whuzi delivers a myriad of sonic sensations for the soul lucky enough to listen. When you press the play button on Kitchen Sink the uniqueness of Whuzi's sound becomes quite apparent. Yet at the same time with Whuzi vs. Justice parts 1 and 2 the artist makes a point of displaying his lyrical dexterity over robotesque beats. Many of the tracks showcase Whuzi's introspective look at life from a young man's perspective, with the inspirational Make It as the
unofficial college student anthem. His fresh style and delivery move well over violin strings and '70s funk guitar riffs. The other aspect of the EP easily spotted is Whuzi's affinity for the opposite sex. Displaying a rather pleasant tenor, Whuzi woos the ladies and reprimands them for their flighty behavior over spacey nouveau production courtesy of Speek, another member of After The Smoke Entertainment.

Standout tracks include:

Make It
Nothing Much
Paper Weight

Pros: Mickey Factz flow mixed with sans auto-tune melodies makes for a nice
combination

Cons: Kitchen Sink is only an EP and fans get just a glimpse of the artist

Overall, Kitchen Sink is a highly enjoyable body of work. I recommend this for
anyone looking for something to listen to while riding around town on a
sunny day or trekking on campus. This EP will not dissapoint.

K'Naan-Troubadour

Many heads constantly complain of the lack of originality and creativity in the game called rap. "Hip-Hop is Dead", a phrase used by the great Nasir Jones in 2006 for the title of his album has often been asked in a literal sense. Barber shops, pool halls and corner stoops across America have been impromptu debate tables for the subject many a day, but one man born in Mogadishu, Somalia is proving that the question may already have its answer. K'naan Warsame brings forth Troubadour, a 14-track opus linking the beautiful aspects of rap's past with the promise of its future with international flare. K'Naan is a 30-something muslim rapper from a strong artistic
lineage; his aunt was one of Somalia's most famous singers while his grandfather was a poet. The name means "traveler" in the Somali language, which is a great way to describe this album. Troubadour will allow you to travel mentally to the homeland while remniscing on what makes good music so universal. With songs like ABC's K'Naan acutely descibes the social issues facing underpriveleged youth. Opening the track K'Naan fires:

"Bundle up my whole style is so cold, I glow like old guys who go bald,
My flow got no front in the vocal, Your flow got no button its so old"

K'naan continues to bring a heavy lyrical dose of reality on the song Dreamer where he spits:

"I got a friend named Flow, Who got a friend named blow, With a finger named clap,
that’ll leave you on the side like a Kangol hat"

Bars like those on Dreamer make the average cocaine saturated gangsta rap seem vain and dated. On the song Somalia K'Naan gives a glimpse into the destitute life his countrymen endure.
Giving examples of how one would pass the time he raps:

"We used to take barb wire, mold them around discarded bike tires, Roll em down the hill in foot blazin’ Now that was our version of mountain bike racing, Daammn! Do you see why it’s amazing?"

The album is not all social commentary, however. With guests including Adam Levine of Maroon 5 and Kirk Hammett of Metallica, K'Naan raps about pretty girls and delving into the bright lights of stardom even if it includes mixing them in with other genres like rock and roll. Other features on the album include Chubb Rock, Damian Marley, the mighty Mos Def, and Chali 2na.

standout tracks include:

i come prepared ft. damian marley
waving flag
somalia

Overall, this album proves that hip-hop is not dead, just evolving and reaching out to other genres and parts of the globe. K'Naan's second album Troubadour is a great sophomore effort and a standout in today's rap scene. This should definetely be in your collection.

Well, THAT'S IT!!! Make sure to tune in every Saturday for these and other hot artists on the Underground Railroad. Chow!

-Ariel "M-P" #1 Hip-Hop Fan

Farewell................

2009-03-03T23:38:00.004-05:00

Every city has a person or a group of people who help establish the "Underground Hip Hop" scene. On Monday March 2, 2009 Tallahassee, FL celebrated one of those people with the departure of DJ Mad Mardigan. Known for founding "Mundazed", a weekly hip hop event that was hosted at Club Down Below in Tallahassee, FL. Mardigan is heading to Kentucky to take further steps in the journey called life and is sure to be missed by a hosts of friends that became his extended family.

The best is yet to come and until we meet again: Peace and Blessings.

-Mr. Cummings

Thrill Da Playa and The HB Fraternity: Skool Dayz "Street Leak" (Review)

2009-03-01T14:59:00.006-05:00

Music is something that is constantly evolving and growing each day. Any artist that dedicates their life to music understands that concept because they are evolving and growing daily as well. Thrill Da Playa and The HB Fraternity have come together to evolve Hip Hop to Hip Pop. Like any project it starts with the intro, in which "Everybody Rock"which is produced by Kboog and Thrill hits listeners with the up tempo music the world has come to love Thrill Da Playa for. However, it sets the tone to for the bridge of Hip Hop and Pop so that you are not only entertained but also giving some things to mentally marinate on. There are not many artist willing to step up address issues for the next generation directly as sometimes it's just a you get or you don't approach. Thrill however recruits M. Breezy, Poeboy, Dirt Dawg Jit, and Guerilla RJS for the track "Real Talk" (produced by KD) to speak to the youth about unnecessary gang violence and staying loyal to where you're from while doing the right thing to progress in life. The song is intended to target youths in Tallahassee, FL but it is a banner that can be applied to youths in any city. "My Future" is another song that can be seen as the everyday person's soundtrack as we all strive to do the best we can to achieve a level of success that makes life comfortable. Now even though this is a mixtape, the placement of "Show Me My Opponent" is perfect follow up to "My Future" as it tackles the topic of solving the problems within yourself to get where you need to be. Each morning and night we all face our own reflection in the mirror and with anything the decisions we make affect us the most and this track gives sound to the daily internal conflict experienced in life.

Overall the "Skool Dayz: Street Leak" gives a a good preview of what to expect from Thrill Da Playa and The HB Fraternity: Good production that will make you want to dance and songs with themes you can relate to, ("I Need a New Car", we have all been there). Just like going to school, there will be good days and bad days but the with focus and constant evolution: "The Future Looks Bright Indeed".

-Mr. Cummings

Joe Budden "Padded Room" (Album Review)

2009-02-26T01:13:00.006-05:00

It must be fate that has lead Joe Budden to this point. Once he was the artist that seemed to have a bright future and then he turned into the outcast of industry. One thing is for certain, there is nothing average about the writing ability of this Joe. "Padded Room" is part diary, part movie playing out in your mind, and part Joe Budden just getting busy on the microphone. With production for up and coming producers like The Klasix, Moss, and Blastah Beats to name a few, this album provides an element that only few apply to Hip Hop in this current age, an artist just being himself and having fun while creating a piece of art to be enjoyed. Yes, we know Joe likes to pick on other artists from time to time and he lyrically slaps Prodigy (Mobb Deep) with the track "Blood on the Wall". Another track, "I Couldn't Help It" has a verse breaking down the love of his son who he actually wanted aborted when his baby mamma was pregnent with him and another verse revealing how he felt to be sleeping with a friends wife........Damn! The track that might get the most attention however is the song "Pray For Me" which plays out as a conversation between God and Joe Budden (very interesting to listen to).

By no means is this album going to run the night club scene. However, for those who really care about just hearing some good music and feeling the personality of an artist through music, Joe Budden has provided a wonderful serving. The writing within this album is sure to take your mind on a journey that is enjoyed. Joe went from the majors to a independent to provide the "Padded Room". Maybe he is not so crazy after all.

-Mr. Cummings

808 Junkie

2009-02-22T22:39:00.007-05:00

So I am what the title states. I like 808. Lots of it. Unlike others, I do not like expensive ass phones. Well, at least until I can get a pay check. I'm trying to be as frugal as possible and buying an iPhone is not in my spectrum right now.

HOWEVER... this new app Almost made me change my mind. Peep this.

AudioRealism came up with this new toy to put on your not so new toy. This app is armed with sequencing functions up to 1000 bars (wow) and Roland 303, 909, and yes 808 sounds. This will make your favorite (struggling to get her financially freeing plan up and running) dj slash tech geek friend, off her ass and peddling for money so she can finally be part of the in crowd.

Y'all don't understand how many ideas I've beat boxed into my phone recorder just to get a shitty play back. I don't need the new new. iPhone app Beatmaker will do. Hell, anything is better than literally spitting on your LG flip phone.

But wait, just to prove that I am that tech savvy chick up the street I will show the technology they dooped the idea from. Hold on a sec let me look into my bookmarks.

23 minutes later...

I didn't realize how many sites I marked but here is one of the videos I've saved. I know it's not hip-hop but some of your favorite hip-hop producers are using this type of technology i.e. Timbo's version of the Miko or Neko.

You can't tell me that this doesn't look sexy.

For more techie info you can jump on over to my blog site and see what I see.

Peace,
Your favorite techie turned Dj
Acrojam

Reviews

2009-02-21T17:43:00.005-05:00

Sorry Kam but i aint need to send you this to proof read this is going to be real quick. Really no need to waste your time.

So i got a pile of hip hop album to check through and its disappointing that hip hop has come to this. 5 albums and probably a total of about 10 tracks worth listening to........so here goes:

Artist: The High Decibels

Album: HD

Grade: If trash was a grade this is what they would get.

The album is an example of a thoughtful idea gone wrong, 2 emcees trying to rap over blues. A hip hop no no.

Artist:Mic Crenshaw

Album:Thinking Out Loud

Grade: Trash....sorry(it is what it is)

The only track that stands out is "Running Out Time" feat Stic Man of dead prez(with Sticky on the production also). Other than that it sounds like an outdated mc trying to catch up with the times but still keep a old school feel. Subject matter is on some real ish but poorly put together. Beats are aahhhh and rhymes are so-so at best.

Artist:The Knux

Album: Remind Me in 3 Days

Grade: Incomplete

This is not a hip hop album. This is more like Frat Rap.This is for college students who get high and drink beer and don't really give a fuck about shit other than partying on some frat ish. Hip hop heads don't even waste your time. The beats are decent and rhymes are cool but this is not hip hop.

Artist: John Robinson

Album: Who Is This Man?......Lol (a wack emcee)

Grade: C

More shit that ain't listening to more than twice. All the songs are tracks produced by MF DOOM.Dope right? Wrong. All the tracks other than 2 are all very old DOOM beats that him spitting over does nothing to make them seem any more special. The verses are bland and the best tracks are the 2 with features from Sthaarr the Femcee and Invivisible Handz. Beyond the fact that the beats are dope this ain't really worth hearing with verses that aren't really that interesting. Once again great thought, but mediocre execution. Heads just go grab the Speical Herbs Collection from DOOM and vibe out to the beats, you will come out better.

Sorry to sound like soo much of a hater but we complain about all this wack Soulja Boy shit and the rest of this garbage and where's the "REAL HIP HOP" but when we get these albums that are supposed to be music with substance......but they are still not quality products. The beats are wack and the rhymes are barely average. Music is music , good is good, and wack is wack. You dont get a pass because you ain't talking bout hoes, drugs, cars, flossin and shit. The point is to make some hottness and these albums were Arctic cold.

Isreal

The opinions represent Isreal and only Isreal and do not represent the views of the moderators of this website.

Is Underground Hip Hop Outnumbered By Mainstream Rap?

2009-02-18T22:34:00.002-05:00

Turning on the radio to listen to the local Hip Hop stations is kind of useless. There was a time when I would listen to the radio to find out what the new good songs were and to get information on albums that were about to be released. Now I get to hear the new single from an artist that will not be heard from in about in 9 months and I get the luxury of knowing that I can't buy his album but I can get his ringtone for .99cents. For a bonus if I buy two ringtones, (beat may sound the same for two different songs), I get some free wall paper that features a model that is trying to get exposure so she can be in a video or at least an Ozone magazine photo collection. Meanwhile the greatest (Artist) that you have never heard about is trying to get their lyrics on point, delivery flawless, timing with their DJ perfected, schedule studio time, attempt to find a venue where they can perform, make some money to pay bills, and live their life.

Not to knock anybody's hustle because in these times, making money is hard to do even if you have a job................but it seems that the vibe of Hip Hop music seems to be stuck in a certain gear because more people are one side of the line and only a few are on the other. Go to a club where the same stuff that is on the radio is being played and you would think the whole city is there. Songs that people claim that they hate are being played but they enjoy themselves with no problem at all. Now go to a spot where songs are good, sometimes great, and if I have to be honest sometimes not so good and you be surprised that most people don't even know this spot exist. Yet the people who go to this spot are loyal to the bone and if they hear something they don't like they will let the DJ know. Makes you wonder, why is one brand circulated freely and the other kept a secret. Why is that I can hear a song about getting a girl drunk for a night of sex, putting rims on my car, and a new dance move (that's involves doing another dance but now you move your other leg) more than I hear the song that speaks of being like Ghandi, the middle passage, cops shooting innocent people, or even the economy? How come a city can have various stations that all play the same songs but only one that plays True School Hip Hop? Hmmmmmm!

Makes you wonder, is Hip Hop really outnumbered by Rap?

-Mr. Cummings

2009 HBCU Music Conference at FAMU

2009-02-16T18:08:00.014-05:00

On Thursday February 12, 2009 history was made for Hip Hop in Tallahasse!

(Video of live perfomance of Dead Broke Records. Much love to SBE for coming back on stage. United we are a force.)

-Mr. Cummings

P,O.S. "Never Better" (Review)

2009-02-16T17:51:00.003-05:00

Point blank: P.O.S. is all over the place to with something with "Never Better". The production mixed Hip Hop and Rock on several occasions as P.OS. switches gears with his flow on frequent basis to draw listners in. "Savion Glover" is a recruiting call for substance to come back to the culture that we all know and love. The gear change in delivery is shown on the title track "Never Better" that tries to pinpoint that its now or never for aspiring Emcee's to show the world what they have to offer. While this may not be the album to play while at a party it is a good listen when you want to just hear different angles taken within the arena of Hip Hop. The lyrics are as complex as the art work. Enough said!

-Mr. Cummings

Illa J (Yancey Boys)

2009-02-16T16:57:00.005-05:00

There is something about the production that was provided by Jay Dilla that makes anything he touched feel like the sanctuary of Hip Hop and just plain good music. Illa J provides the thrill of more of Dilla's touch with the "Yancey Boys". Though the project does not take you anywhere different from what we have come to expect from Illa J it still resurrects a tone in music that expressed what the artist may have been feeling at the time and what to share with the world. The track "Timeless" embodies that notion of this being more of a piece of art that will never expire and will be a source of great vibes for years to come. The impact of Jay Dilla continues to live on. "R U Listening", featuring Guilty Simpson says it all with a statement declaring that this is where is at and that the other stuff may not be worth your attention. I'll leave that chocie up to up to you with music nowadays "R U Listening" really?

-Mr. Cummings

Evidence "The Layover EP" (Review)

2009-02-16T15:51:00.003-05:00

Hip Hop seems to be in a transition period from the verses that only highlighted the new dance moves or drug deals to lyrics that are planting seeds of new ways to think about stuff. For those that like to take a trip when listening to music, Evidence has put together a good ticket with "The Layover EP". With production being supplied by Babu, The Alchemist, Khrysis, and Evidence himself, the project fills the gap of music taking you somewhere different and bringing the feeling of it back home. "For Whom The Bells Tolls" which features Phonte and Blu summarizes the feeling of the EP as it brings up why Emcee's are doing what they are doing right now by trying to make real music for the people while you still have some artist who just focus on what will get them paid. "To Be Determined" which features Elzhi and Aloe Blacc captures that focus of an Emcee that is determined to do it their way even when unsure of how it will play out. The two tracks define "The Layover EP" because as you travel you see what is around you and that can set an impression but your mind can drift to what is to come once you reach your destination. The theme is hit with a solid force and makes "The Layover EP" a nice pit stop for more great music to come from Evidence and others.

-Mr. Cummings

3rd Rail hip hop Monthly!

2009-02-10T12:03:00.004-05:00

3rd Rail bringing Tallahassee the essence of hip hop in all forms. So be there and experience the culture in its RAWNESS!

Doors open 9pm

$3 all night

Eninge Room (formerly the beta bar)

Breakers

B Boys

B Girls

Graf Artists

Emcees

Dj's

Producers

Hip Hop heads

Shit anything else.............. would be uncivilized

-Isreal

Isreali

Isrealite
Isreality

Isrealness

Un-Biased Jewels

2009-02-06T05:48:00.002-05:00

Not only are we serious with this hip-hop, we can EDU-tain you. Peep some jewels from my Big Homey DJ A to the L

CLICK HERE

-Ariel "M-P" #1 Hip-Hop Fan

What up!!!!

2009-02-06T05:33:00.009-05:00

Shout out to DJ A To-The-L, Stess The M-C, AMOND JACKSON, Stat Quo, T.I.P. The King Of The South, Big Homey Kameron ( The Bulls-Lakers!!!!! on the H-Dizzle with the Good Good!!!), Derm DZL
and real Tallahassee hip-hop!!!!

VIDEO FROM UGR CRATES

-Ariel "M-P" #1 Hip-Hop Fan

The Underground Railroad - WVFS 89.7 FM

2009-02-06T04:45:00.002-05:00

Download Royce Da 5'9 - Heat To The Streets F Kid Vis

Praises to Allah and Acro

2009-02-06T03:46:00.003-05:00

-Ariel ''M-P''#1 Hip-Hop Fan

Much blessings to Majorca aka DJ Acrojam B.K.A. will smash your favorite DJ on site!!!!!!

Also, much blessings to Mr Cummings A.K.A. CEO of Dead Broke Records, LLC.

Much blessings to E.J. The premier artist of DBR LLC, and 2 real N**cas from LA.

Much blessings to Planet Zoron (Leaf and Oplex), S.B.E. (K.C. and G-Ville) and After The Smoke Entertainment (Speek, Whuzi, Carmen).....
What it do Grafh, Bishop Lamont, Killer Mike, and every artist that has been on the UGR!!! Much respect to "The Intern" and my boy Iz!!!! Iz you the man!!! What up Manley!!!!! Andrea Grant what up doe when u gonna freak a party @ my new spot??????

Shout out to the boy Jeff for the knowledge and the balance. I thank you and yes, you are a dope MC!!!!!

W

Use Your Noodle!

2009-01-28T21:51:00.006-05:00

So from time to time I talk to random people about what's going on in the community here in Tallahassee and this is what I came across recently. I wanted to share with you all. It goes a little somthin' like this.

Whack Rapper:"Yo Acro, whatup? I heard you makin' moves. I rap, you'll spin this at your next gig?

Me:"Yeah man pushin' hard keeping the grind steady in the year of the ox. Send me a track and I'll give it a listen. I can't guarantee that I'll play it but, I have a radio show too and would love for you come through and freestyle."

Whack Rapper: "I don't freestyle."

Me: "Whatchu mean you don't freestyle?"

Whack Rapper: I just hop on tracks and do my thing nahmean?

Me: No...

Whack Rapper: No?

Me: Telling me you don't freestyle is like being a basketball player asking a recruiter to scout you and you don't even plan to come to practice.

Whack Rapper:"..."

Me:"Aight man, I'll see you around" (puts cd in car cd player). "Let me see what this dude is talkin' about.(music plays)

Song: (snap, snap, snap, snap "Let me holla at ya shawty let me holla at ya! Let me holla at you shawty let me holla at ya!...

Me:... (taking cd out of player. shaking head.)I hope he realizes one day that practice is essential. Well, at lease he tried.

The only way you'll get better as an mc is if you take the time to exercise your brain and come up with things off the fly. In the long run this helps you become a better writer and so forth. Hence, you won't write silly 3rd grade songs about how to approach a young lady.

SO...! I figured I post an old video of cats that know how to hold it down on the freestyles. Mind you they have been making quality songs for many many many years. You know why? Because they practice.

GET RIGHT OR GET LEFT!

FLORIDA's own EMCEE's will be on the mic for the Massive Cypher coming soon only on The Underground Railroad every Saturday @ 5pm. I'll keep you posted when that goes down.

Peep the quote at the end.
Shout out to Lorna for being another female holding it down in the hip-hop community.

-DJ Acrojam

Obama's speech for his inauguration as 44th president

2009-01-20T13:52:00.003-05:00

"Please note that this copy of the speech was obtained from MSNBC's site thanks to the Associated Press . Had to make sure that was known so the source got credit. Now.........................."

WASHINGTON - My fellow citizens,
I stand here today humbled by the task before us, grateful for the trust you have bestowed, mindful of the sacrifices borne by our ancestors. I thank President Bush for his service to our nation, as well as the generosity and cooperation he has shown throughout this transition.
Forty-four Americans have now taken the presidential oath. The words have been spoken during rising tides of prosperity and the still waters of peace. Yet, every so often the oath is taken amidst gathering clouds and raging storms. At these moments, America has carried on not simply because of the skill or vision of those in high office, but because We the People have remained faithful to the ideals of our forbearers, and true to our founding documents.

So it has been. So it must be with this generation of Americans.
That we are in the midst of crisis is now well understood. Our nation is at war, against a far-reaching network of violence and hatred. Our economy is badly weakened, a consequence of greed and irresponsibility on the part of some, but also our collective failure to make hard choices and prepare the nation for a new age. Homes have been lost; jobs shed; businesses shuttered. Our health care is too costly; our schools fail too many; and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.
These are the indicators of crisis, subject to data and statistics. Less measurable but no less profound is a sapping of confidence across our land — a nagging fear that America's decline is inevitable, and that the next generation must lower its sights.
Today I say to you that the challenges we face are real. They are serious and they are many. They will not be met easily or in a short span of time. But know this, America — they will be met.
On this day, we gather because we have chosen hope over fear, unity of purpose over conflict and discord.

On this day, we come to proclaim an end to the petty grievances and false promises, the recriminations and worn out dogmas, that for far too long have strangled our politics.
We remain a young nation, but in the words of Scripture, the time has come to set aside childish things. The time has come to reaffirm our enduring spirit; to choose our better history; to carry forward that precious gift, that noble idea, passed on from generation to generation: the God-given promise that all are equal, all are free, and all deserve a chance to pursue their full measure of happiness.
In reaffirming the greatness of our nation, we understand that greatness is never a given. It must be earned. Our journey has never been one of short-cuts or settling for less. It has not been the path for the faint-hearted — for those who prefer leisure over work, or seek only the pleasures of riches and fame. Rather, it has been the risk-takers, the doers, the makers of things — some celebrated but more often men and women obscure in their labor, who have carried us up the long, rugged path towards prosperity and freedom.

For us, they packed up their few worldly possessions and traveled across oceans in search of a new life.
For us, they toiled in sweatshops and settled the West; endured the lash of the whip and plowed the hard earth.
For us, they fought and died, in places like Concord and Gettysburg; Normandy and Khe Sahn.
Time and again these men and women struggled and sacrificed and worked till their hands were raw so that we might live a better life. They saw America as bigger than the sum of our individual ambitions; greater than all the differences of birth or wealth or faction.

This is the journey we continue today. We remain the most prosperous, powerful nation on Earth. Our workers are no less productive than when this crisis began. Our minds are no less inventive, our goods and services no less needed than they were last week or last month or last year. Our capacity remains undiminished. But our time of standing pat, of protecting narrow interests and putting off unpleasant decisions — that time has surely passed. Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.
For everywhere we look, there is work to be done. The state of the economy calls for action, bold and swift, and we will act — not only to create new jobs, but to lay a new foundation for growth. We will build the roads and bridges, the electric grids and digital lines that feed our commerce and bind us together. We will restore science to its rightful place, and wield technology's wonders to raise health care's quality and lower its cost. We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories. And we will transform our schools and colleges and universities to meet the demands of a new age. All this we can do. All this we will do.
Now, there are some who question the scale of our ambitions — who suggest that our system cannot tolerate too many big plans. Their memories are short. For they have forgotten what this country has already done; what free men and women can achieve when imagination is joined to common purpose, and necessity to courage.

What the cynics fail to understand is that the ground has shifted beneath them— that the stale political arguments that have consumed us for so long no longer apply. The question we ask today is not whether our government is too big or too small, but whether it works — whether it helps families find jobs at a decent wage, care they can afford, a retirement that is dignified. Where the answer is yes, we intend to move forward. Where the answer is no, programs will end. And those of us who manage the public's dollars will be held to account — to spend wisely, reform bad habits, and do our business in the light of day — because only then can we restore the vital trust between a people and their government.
Nor is the question before us whether the market is a force for good or ill. Its power to generate wealth and expand freedom is unmatched, but this crisis has reminded us that without a watchful eye, the market can spin out of control — and that a nation cannot prosper long when it favors only the prosperous. The success of our economy has always depended not just on the size of our Gross Domestic Product, but on the reach of our prosperity; on the ability to extend opportunity to every willing heart — not out of charity, but because it is the surest route to our common good.
As for our common defense, we reject as false the choice between our safety and our ideals. Our Founding Fathers, faced with perils we can scarcely imagine, drafted a charter to assure the rule of law and the rights of man, a charter expanded by the blood of generations. Those ideals still light the world, and we will not give them up for expedience's sake. And so to all other peoples and governments who are watching today, from the grandest capitals to the small village where my father was born: know that America is a friend of each nation and every man, woman, and child who seeks a future of peace and dignity, and we are ready to lead once more.

Recall that earlier generations faced down fascism and communism not just with missiles and tanks, but with sturdy alliances and enduring convictions. They understood that our power alone cannot protect us, nor does it entitle us to do as we please. Instead, they knew that our power grows through its prudent use; our security emanates from the justness of our cause, the force of our example, the tempering qualities of humility and restraint.
We are the keepers of this legacy. Guided by these principles once more, we can meet those new threats that demand even greater effort — even greater cooperation and understanding between nations. We will begin to responsibly leave Iraq to its people, and forge a hard-earned peace in Afghanistan. With old friends and former foes, we will work tirelessly to lessen the nuclear threat, and roll back the specter of a warming planet. We will not apologize for our way of life, nor will we waver in its defense, and for those who seek to advance their aims by inducing terror and slaughtering innocents, we say to you now that our spirit is stronger and cannot be broken; you cannot outlast us, and we will defeat you.

For we know that our patchwork heritage is a strength, not a weakness. We are a nation of Christians and Muslims, Jews and Hindus — and non-believers. We are shaped by every language and culture, drawn from every end of this Earth; and because we have tasted the bitter swill of civil war and segregation, and emerged from that dark chapter stronger and more united, we cannot help but believe that the old hatreds shall someday pass; that the lines of tribe shall soon dissolve; that as the world grows smaller, our common humanity shall reveal itself; and that America must play its role in ushering in a new era of peace.
To the Muslim world, we seek a new way forward, based on mutual interest and mutual respect. To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict, or blame their society's ills on the West — know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy. To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history; but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.
To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds. And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to suffering outside our borders; nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it.

As we consider the road that unfolds before us, we remember with humble gratitude those brave Americans who, at this very hour, patrol far-off deserts and distant mountains. They have something to tell us, just as the fallen heroes who lie in Arlington whisper through the ages. We honor them not only because they are guardians of our liberty, but because they embody the spirit of service; a willingness to find meaning in something greater than themselves. And yet, at this moment — a moment that will define a generation — it is precisely this spirit that must inhabit us all.
For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies. It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break, the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours. It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.
Our challenges may be new. The instruments with which we meet them may be new. But those values upon which our success depends — honesty and hard work, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism — these things are old. These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history. What is demanded then is a return to these truths. What is required of us now is a new era of responsibility — a recognition, on the part of every American, that we have duties to ourselves, our nation, and the world, duties that we do not grudgingly accept but rather seize gladly, firm in the knowledge that there is nothing so satisfying to the spirit, so defining of our character, than giving our all to a difficult task.

This is the price and the promise of citizenship.
This is the source of our confidence— the knowledge that God calls on us to shape an uncertain destiny.
This is the meaning of our liberty and our creed — why men and women and children of every race and every faith can join in celebration across this magnificent mall, and why a man whose father less than sixty years ago might not have been served at a local restaurant can now stand before you to take a most sacred oath.

So let us mark this day with remembrance, of who we are and how far we have traveled. In the year of America's birth, in the coldest of months, a small band of patriots huddled by dying campfires on the shores of an icy river. The capital was abandoned. The enemy was advancing. The snow was stained with blood. At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:
"Let it be told to the future world...that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive ... that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet [it]."

America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.
Thank you. God bless you. And God bless the United States of America.

(A Mr. Cummings post)

History

2009-01-20T13:12:00.002-05:00

The day has finally come. Today proves that dreams come true, that a vision can be fulfilled, that hard work pays off, that discipline and dedication offers great rewards, and that change, positive and historic change can take place. Let us truly now be the "UNITED States of America". Much love and respect to President Barack Obama and his family. Much love and respect to you and yours.

Peace and Blessings

James J. Cummings

Third Rail Hip Hop Monthly

2009-01-16T12:47:00.005-05:00

Real hip hop going down at the Engine Room. Tallahasee's best coming together for the love of this hip hop thing.Be there and be a part of the Third Rail experience.CRUMS!!!

-Isreal

Break Ya Motha F***ing Necks!

2009-01-15T02:21:00.001-05:00

You must be outa ya head if ya system's not up to the red!
~Madlib

2009 is Mine

2009-01-11T11:57:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year! 2008 was great but 2009 is mine. It's been a few weeks since my last post and just to give you the rundown:

1. Surpised my mom on Christmas back in California
2. Partied hard in Los Angeles
3. Met all types of people while in Los Angeles
4. Went to a Laker game and watched Kobe go for 40pts against the Jazz
5. Saw BB King perform live and got to shake his hand after the show
6. Met Meagan Good's cousin and told her to pass a message to Meagan for me (In due time)
7. New Year's Eve Nation (for those who know about it, enough said)
8. Wrote some hot verses
9. Attended the funeral of my Grand-Aunt Pearline Wolfe (A true Pioneer woman)
10. Watched USC win the Rose Bowl
11. Chilled with my peeps in Compton
12. Came back to Tallahassee and put closure for the momment if not forever to a roller coaster relationship that I had since 2003
13. The King has his castle.
14. Watched UF win the national championship and actually had a great time talking with a Hooters waitress during the game. (Shout outs to Charles aka the Tallahassee Chris Rock and my wingman that night)
15. Mundazed is now at Gill's Tavern. (Keep it up fellas)
16. Back with the Underground Railroad family
17. Shout out to DJ Demp, (Happy Birthday chief)
18. Preparing to live history when Barack Obama is sworn into office and George W. Bush has to leave.
19. Happy 19th Birthday to the Underground Railroad Hip Hop Show.

Now that I got that all out, let's get it in 2009. "We are all meant to shine"

-Mr. Cummings

We can't change the world unless we change ourselves!

2008-12-22T02:06:00.003-05:00

I don't know exactly what to say other than I hope they stick with the "script". I've been disappointed with many movies in the past that portray some of my favorite musical artists. I really hope that this particular movie "Notorious" doesn't have me walking out the theater wishing that I didn't spend money on hip-hop blasphemy. I'll let you see the trailer yourself and we'll discuss this more come January 17, 2009.

I BET YOU...

2008-12-04T19:28:00.002-05:00

AINT never ever,ever ever ever heard a better hip hop radio show on a saturday than The Undaground Railroad...i will put any amount of monopoly money on it.So tune in from 5pm-8pm saturdays...CRUMS Peace

Isreal

TEAMWORK TO MAKE THE DREAM WORK!

DOPENESS!

2008-12-03T00:57:00.001-05:00

I know I may be late on this Emcee but, you may be later. This is Invincible from Detroit. One of the best females Emcees out now. Thank goodness there isn't an expiration date on dopeness.

Thanks Jeff.

MOVE!!

2008-12-01T06:24:00.001-05:00

LOVE THIS GUY!!

Why are you asking for money.......you're rich!

2008-11-23T22:07:00.005-05:00

By now you are aware that the business world in the U.S. is facing a major challenge in trying to deal with the Big 3 automakers which are "General Motors Corp., Chrysler, and Ford Motor Co. ". American made cars have been produced by these 3 companies for years and they are now looking at the prospects of having to file bankrupt and force what has been estimated to be 239,000 people lose their jobs. This is not the way to spend the holidays. Think about that, 239,000 people losing their jobs. That's a lot of people who will now have to find other means to generate money to pay bills and live an honest life, (hint hint). The scary part really might be a question that needs to be asked and answered: "If 239,000 people lose their job, will there be 239,000 jobs available for those who will need it?" Ummmmmmmmmm............

Getting back to the facts, the Big 3 are asking for a $25 billion dollar financing package from the government so they can avoid filing for bankruptcy. Here is where it gets hilarious though. All three CEO's that make up the Big 3 showed up in Washington......... on private jets. These jets of course cost more than what "some" of their own employees will make for their entire career. The irony. Now I am in no position to ask for $25 billion for anything right now but from over the years of living on the 3rd rock from the sun I have learned this. If I want to borrow money and need financial assistance I do not project the image of showing I enjoy elite luxury in my life. If I wanted to borrow $25 from a friend I would not dare ask while wearing my new Sean Jean outfit with brand new Timberlands after I just got out of a 2008 CLK Benz with a full tank of 93 octane gas. Did you get all that?

The point I am making is that if these companies need hlep then yes they need to show why and how this money will help with specific detail. They should also find ways in cutting back on expenses or the pay out to the top of the power chains of these companies. There are people that work for these companies that don't have a car and are living check to check that really need for this $25 billion bailout to work so they can continue with what they have so far. However, I am sure that when their job and livelihood is on the line and you have the CEO flying around in a type of plane that they may never get a chance to fly in, it can be frustrating and confusing. "Oh, thanks. You couldn't give me a $.25 raise but you can fly around in something that burns up what I make in a year in about 10 minutes. Thanks a lot".

Where are the priorities really at?

-James J. Cummings

2008-11-19T10:32:00.001-05:00

Dope group from Waco, TX Strange Fruit Project check 'em out!

~DJ Acrojam
GeT RighT or GeT LefT!

The Lakers beat the Bulls.....but what's new!

2008-11-19T01:37:00.005-05:00

November 18th, 2008. Fresh off of work and ready to watch the Los Angeles Lakers hosting the Chicago Bulls. For those that don't know, I am from L.A. and I rep my California teams hard. My boy Tickle Cam (sorry, Killa does not apply to Bulls fans) reps Chicago to the fullest so we rounded up the crew, got a case of beer and a fresh plate of chicken, and linked up to watch the game. I will give credit where it is due, Derrick Rose is pretty nice. He scorded 25 points and had 9 assists, (not bad for the rookie). The problem is that he plays with the Bulls, enough said.............

The Lakers spent about 2 1/2 quarters letting the Bulls at least have their self esteem before opening the gates of basketball reality and putting the Bulls (red wearing fake Kappas with satin jerseys) in their place of not being good enough to really compete with the Lakers. Gasol has 34 points and while I would love to say Kobe had 60+ points, he actually only ended up with 21. The key to the game was that the Lakers just had more weapons and just were a better overall team but that is no secret.

I appreciate the Bulls for coming to participate in Los Angeles for the game and maybe, just maybe, some of the players might get a phone number from one of the groupies that just feels sorry for them. But since most Cali chicks like winners, they will probably have to swing the team buses by the hoe stroll and use some of their game day money to get some action, (just stating the facts).

Better luck next time and go Lakers.

-Laker Fan (duh)

2008-11-18T16:47:00.004-05:00

Ok music lovers more new shit from ya man:

You better get the New Mixtape from Dj7 and Isreal:The Head Nod Suite

80 minutes of QUALITY hip hop, soul, and instrumentals tracks!!!

Blue Sky Black Death:Slow Burning Lights

88 Keys: The Death of Adam

Kurput and Roscoe:The Frank and Jesse James Story

Jedi Mind Tricks: A History of Violence

Jurassic 5: J5"11th Anniversay"
Pastor Troy:T.R.O.Y

Nature:Pain Killer

Next week

E-40:Ball Street Journal

Evidence:The Layover Ep

Luda:Theatre of the Mind

Reef the Lost Cauze:The Stree Files

Aceyalone:Lonely Ones

Keep ya ears to the streets for that new ish

Isrealite

Cruising down the path

2008-11-17T21:25:00.003-05:00

Each day we all wake up in the morning and our thankful in a verbal or mental manner that we get to take another step in life's journey. Granted another chance to make our dreams come true and to shine like the stars we are intended to be. Even when there are scopes of barriers that are placed in positions that should keep us idle; there is an echo of a logical outcome that makes the resolution to these situations highly possible. As a piece of metal is attracted to a magnet so is the serene human nature to happiness, joy, satisfaction, and love. These traits serve as motivation to stand up to the most malicious in order to hold on to a pure virtue. A single mother working more than one job remembers this when trying to feed her kids. A father remembers this when sinister acts take shots at his pride as a man and confidence in being able to provide. A student remembers this when misery attempts to stop them from grasping concepts and expanding their talents. A boss remembers this when circumstances out of their control prevent them from being able to aide their company to its rightful nobility. We all should remember because we all share the same foundation to what make each of us special. Your success will stretch to as far as your imagination can carry. If you can visualize it, your reality will realize it. Know that it is relevant to for us all to be for each other and not against each.
May you prosper!

James J. James

Jay-C

Wow, he didnt even want to show up

2008-11-16T21:52:00.002-05:00

For those faithful Jordan fans:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5B7U74Dg04k

Laker Fan

Michael Jordan..........losing

2008-11-16T21:46:00.002-05:00

Wow, the greatest of all time being taken to school at his own camp.

Laker Fan

Jakeone: “White Van Music” (Review)

2008-11-16T21:10:00.003-05:00

By demand the most causal Hip Hop fan would love to have some music with an edge. Lyrics that provide a portrait within the imagination, beats that sound good when blasting out of the speaker, and concepts that can be related to but are not shall we say……corny. Well, “White Van Music” by Jakeone does provide a candid drive through the realms of Hip Hop music. Image graphing tracks that pack just enough attitude to make you take it serious but not go smack the next person that you see. The song “Glow “, which features Royce the 5’9 and Elzhi is a lyrical rally of some of Detroit’s finest Emcees. The concept of the track really summarizes “White Van Music”, and how real skills on the mic makes an Emcee glow to those who appreciate the talent as this project is filled with artist who do just that. A must have ….especially if you have a white van…..it’s only right.

Written By:
James J. Cummings

VOTE VOTE VOTE!!!

2008-11-03T18:33:00.000-05:00

GO VOTE!!!
If Mos Def Were President

-DJ ACROJAM

2008-10-29T17:19:00.004-04:00

For those who look out for the new ish, here is a lineup of albums that will be droppin soon.

Black Milk-Tronic:in stores this week
Q-tip-Rennisance:in stores next week
Common-Universal Mind Control: 11/9
Diamond D-Huge Hefner Chronicles:in stores now
Dj Babu-Duck Season 3-In stores now
Moka Only-Carrots and Eggs-In stores this week
Z-Trip-The Obama Mix-free download
Black Milk-The color purple-free download

Stay wit ya ears to the streets for that hot new new ish.Either myself or Dermo will be keeping you posted.Also check out www.altrap.com, www.isrealradio.com, www.whoissbe.com and www.salempsalms.com for all the hottest in hip hop music, news and all around mud hole stompin on this trickery they calling rap music and journalism.

ohh ohh I am having a Obama victory part at my house Friday Nov 7th in which all are invited.Dj A 2 the L will be spinning.

Oh and check penned madness too....CRUMS!!!!

Isreal
TEAMWORK TOMAKE THE DREAMWORK!

oh oh speaking of teamwork myself and Ej are doing a fundraiser from the Capital City Youth Arts Program in which we are selling pizza hut cards for $10...so if you are interested in helping the cause please get at us(its for the kids yall)!!!Ok ok ok Ok.....iight I am done!Peace

Isreal

Review: Tech N9ne “Killer"

2008-10-22T14:04:00.002-04:00

Kansas City veteran Tech N9ne strikes again with a new double album full of unpredictable surprises. Throughout the years, he has definitely displayed some artistic growth, and Killer is no different. The production brings forth a diverse balance, which is missing in Rap music, much less music as a whole. My only complaint about this CD is that the enormous amount of guest appearances turn it into more of a compilation instead of a solo piece of work. I'm sure that Tech N9ne is an acquired taste for certain people. But, if you're looking for an album full of sick and twisted, energized lyricism, then this album is a must-have.

Key Tracks: Like Yeah, Wheaties, Blackboy, Psycho Bitch II, Too Much, Beat You Up, Happy Ending

Jeffrey Perdomo of the Underground Railroad

Review: DJ KO “Picture This”

2008-10-22T13:52:00.003-04:00

DJ KO: Picture This (Review)

For a while now the chant that Hip Hop is dead has been getting echoed on all scenes. Well if the argument was fighting for existence then a certain DJ has found a way to K.O. the notion and his name is ironically DJ KO. With the project Picture This, DJ KO manages to bring to together some of the most talented up and coming Emcees in the Hip Hop pool to show that the soul of the craft is still alive and ticking. With appearances from Royce the 5'9", Little Brother, MF Doom, Brother Ali, and Skyzoo to name a few, the case for showing that the torch is still ablaze has definitely been made. The theme of this proposal comes to life the best on the track called Mind of a Genius in which the past height of the culture is boasted and the future of it is discussed. For those that are hungry for lyrics that speak of Hip Hop taking its place back at the top over just popular songs for dancing, will want to add this collection of rhymes and beats to their personal library. DJ KO's production will make you do the classic head nod.

James Cummings of the Underground Railroad

Review: Nas “Untitled”

2008-10-22T13:49:00.002-04:00

Artist: Nasir Olu Dara Jones, Nas, Nasty Nas, Esco, Escobar, Nastadamus, GOD’s Son

Album: Untitled AKA NIGGER

There has been many long in depth conversations about this album but I am going to keep it short and sweet.

Beats: Mediocre
Lyrics: Classic
Content and Concept: IMMEASURABLE

Nas is not just a emcee anymore, he is officially the voice of the people, a true revolutionary, using his music for what it is used best for……CHANGE! With this album and hopefully others of this caliber following through hip hop we can truly change the world.Peace

Isreal of the Underground Railroad

Review: N.E.R.D. “Seeing Sounds”

2008-10-22T13:41:00.003-04:00

Album: Seeing Sounds

Artists: N.E.R.D

The new N.E.R.D album Seeing Sounds will have you doing just that along with hearing pictures at the same time. First off to get the record straight THIS IS NOT A HIP HOP album. This album contains elements of rock, soul, r & b, punk, hip hop, jazz, and elements of a variety of musical genres. This is what makes this album so dope is that Chad and Pharrell are able to combine a wide range of different sounds without none of it sounding out of place or forced. Musically this album is wonderful, giving you on each track a slew of different rhythm’s and melodies with banging beats. Nothing sounds the same and everything sounds like it was well developed. When listening you have to put your mind and ear in tune to hear something different (kinda like Gnarls Barkley) or else you will miss most of what they are trying to do. The first 5 songs of the album are a little rough to get through but the second half of the album is classic. Musically this is a very colorful, vivid album hitting a lot of topics, but on a very grown up mature vibe. With this album N.E.R.D shows their genius and why they are important to keeping the creativity and originality alive in music. Go cop it you will be very satisfied.

Grade: B+

Isreal of the Underground Railroad

'Supose to be studying...

2008-10-10T03:55:00.003-04:00

I'm suposed to being studying physics but I rather watch it happen. Here's one of my past times (soon to be a present time again). I joke about kicking people in the chin...it's really not a joke. Lol. Music posts coming soon. Til' then lest all say "Oooooo!"

2008-09-24T22:13:00.001-04:00

Concept album featuring The Gift of Gab, Lateef The Truthspeaker, and Headnodic with special guest appearances from MF Doom, Ladybug Mecca, and
Raashan Ahmad. All production was done by Headnodic. The Album has a lighter feel to it than what’s normal for each emcee original work. There is singing
on the album that doesn’t add much to the records. Some flows are a bit choppy but delivery is on point. The album is decent but not my favorite. “Status Symbol” stands out from rest.

Majorca “DJ AcrojaM” Murphy of the Underground Railroad

Review: Metaform “Standing on the Shoulders of Giants”

2008-09-24T22:12:00.000-04:00

The album is pretty solid. There are a few tracks can get a little repetative but, it would suit great for bed music on a radio show or for commercials on television. Some songs are reminiscent of Danger Mouse and RJD2 with smooth vibes and at times harder hitting drum breaks that carry
the live instrumentation over. A few songs are a bit heavy in samples that didn’t have that much in difference. I like Metaform’s mellow vibe, his taste in samples, and how he mixes different genres.

Majorca “DJ AcrojaM” Murphy of the Underground Railroad

Review: Janelle Monáe “Metropolis Suite I: The Chase”

2008-09-24T22:05:00.002-04:00

“Toto, I’ve got a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore”.
-”Dorothy” *The Wizard of Oz*

According to Kansas City native and Wondaland Arts Society/Bad Boy Recording artist Janelle Monáe, her listeners are on a trip to the only city left in the world, Metropolis. The project is based upon the 1930 German silent film *Metropolis* by Fritz Lang, which embodied the message of breaking against the monotony and control of the oppressor. Sounds a lot like what goes on in
the music industry. The concept suite of the same title (*Suite I: The Chase*). A suite is one of four albums to come out with 3 to 4 songs on it.), begins with an imaginatory intro that gives the story line of what’s to
come.

*Violet Stars Happy Hunting * is the first song that has a simultaneous upbeat yet pessimistic vibe that unveals a tale of a cyborg being hunted down by the “Star Commission” for falling in love with a human. The next track, *Many Moons* is a message to those that are mentally asleep. “You’re free but, in your mind you’re freedom is in a bind”. The track has a melodramatic vibe but yet it will still have people dancing while pondering what they really are doing with their lives. *Cybertronic Purgatory* is an overture that was crafted by Wondaland Arts Society producers, Nate Wonder and Chuck Lightning, that has Janelle’s
classically trained voice effortlessly running in cohesion. The track is reminiscent to Jessye Norman’s *Dido’s Lament*. However, the track still keeps it’s own autonomy while keeping the listener locked in to hear what happens next with Cyborg 57821’s journey.

Bouncy and 007esq, *Sincerely Jane*, is a track that comes straight off the “soap box” squeaky clean and included with another message. “Spending money on spinners but, won’t pay college loans/ Teacher, teacher please reach those girls in those videos”. Alongside Janelle’s theatrical delivery, is a very well composed instrumentation. Ms. Monáe has a timeless voice that will carry from Atlanta to the nearest planet, while her character will carry her career for light years. Daydreamers may not want to sleep on this new leader but, it turns out they have no choice but to stay awake, for a new movement is on the way. With the
help of Bad Boy Records, the universe will get a view into a new city Metropolis and it’s beckon of light, Ms. Janelle Monáe.

Majorca “DJ AcrojaM” Murphy of the Underground Railroad

Review: Buckshot & 9th Wonder “The Formula”

2008-09-24T22:01:00.000-04:00

Remember when you were young and you had your favorite drink or how you used to mix soda flavors at the local convenience store while hanging out with your friends? These are the memories that are brought to mind while listening to “The Formula” by Buckshot and 9^th Wonder. Sticking to the basics of what garnered Buckshot a nice following during the 90’s and moving to this present time period, he crafts a reflection on how he feels about the game, music, and life in general. The best example is “Just Display” which touches on the fact that some women can be so beautiful in a physical sense but the very opposite in their personality traits. GUYS: While riding by a party of local hot spot after being disappointed by what you thought was a dime piece’s social skills, play this track.

9^th wonder does an excellent job giving Buckshot a good platform to operate from. Tracks like “Hold It Down” which features Talib Kweli and “No Future” and rooted with the passion of soul that makes 9^th wonder one of the standout producers of his craft. Overall, “The Formula is sure to stimulate your taste buds and provide a nice snack for those that have a real hunger of Buckshot’s hip hop flavor.

-James Cummings of the Underground Railroad

Review: Invincible “Shapeshifters”

2008-09-24T21:58:00.002-04:00

People that play video games have very wild imaginations that are probably influenced by some of the games that they play. Robot Sneakers shows their video game experience through music with the project Matchbox Vol 1. To give them credit they are trying something different while rapping over production laced with samples from video games and even a porn movie but it is the substance of what they’re saying that comes up short. I must admit, from the artwork of their insert and actual CD I was expecting to be taken to the past the clouds and they managed to only get me down the street. Besides the fact that they like to make video game references while sometimes even rapping off beat, Robot Sneakers has you feeling like you are playing a brand new video game that doesn’t keep you from pressing the reset or power off button quickly. Game Over!

James Cummings of the Underground Railroad

Review: Robot Sneakers “Matchbox Vol. 1”

2008-09-24T21:53:00.003-04:00

James Cummings of the Underground Railroad

So I Herd You Like Hip-Hop?

2008-09-16T13:40:00.001-04:00

So this is my first post to the new WVFS Underground Railroad Music/Culture Blog community, and I must say that it is an honor to be a part of this team and to work with every single individual on this show.

Speaking for myself, since joining the WVFS V89 radio station family in the summer of 2006 (an event that actually changed my life), I always wished to take part in the Saturday afternoon specialty show affectionately known as the "Underground Railroad." This was a program that spoke to me, though not a full blown historian or head, I have always been into Hip-Hop since I really can remember - since an older childhood friend made me listen to Tribe Called Quest while we played "Contra" on his basement floor after school.

The idea of 3 full hours of Tru-school, Old-School, Indie, Alternative and, as the name states, Underground Hip-Hop was one of the most appealing aspects of this station. Sometime in early 2008, I was called up on a Saturday by a frantic Mr. Amond Jackson while he and his co-host Majorca drove at break neck speeds from Atlanta to make their show that afternoon. I was told that they would not actually make it to start the show, and that I was suggested by other members of the station as a possible fill, and most importantly...could I actually do a Hip-Hop show...
I said yes of course I could, with a slight fear of not being up to par with what those two had created of the show, but I was confident that I would do them proud...

Evidently I did something right that day as I was asked to join the 'team' and become a participant in this movement shortly afterward, another event that actually changed my life. Seeing each one of the team members of this collective coming together out of their mutual love for the ever-changing, yet always somehow constant, culture of Hip-Hop to create a movement of interest and respect within Tallahassee the likes of which this community as not since for a good long time.
And odds are won't again if we all don't keep moving and looking forward.

When I personally reflect on how far this show has come since I myself discovered it, since I myself hosted solo, since I myself became a team member... every time I take that mental stroll, I am blown away by the progress and bright future of this program and its backbone members.

Simple blown away.

Enough with the ramblings of this skinny white dude, I have some tracks that I personally have been loving for some time and that I also love to incorporate into my dance party sets throughout town. Though not traditional Hip-Hop, but worth a listen nonetheless.

Warning: I do enjoy the remix...

U-God - Ugodzilla (Yuksek Remix)

Ludacris-Move Bitch(Disco Villains Remix)

Wu-Tang Clan - The Jump Off (Bird Peterson re-edit)

Wu-Tang Clan - Ain't Nothin' to Fudge with (Bird Peterson re-edit)

Tribe Called Quest - Find a Way (Scottie B reworking)

-DJ Mannes aka Manley, Himself

We here crums!!!!!

2008-09-15T18:15:00.002-04:00

Its the take ova suckas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!