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New for 2009...The Party Moves On

2008-12-25T23:07:00.000-08:00

CLICK HERE FOR THE NEW BLOG PAGE

Since I got a little Message from Blogger saying they removed my content, I've moved to wordpress.

I will still be running this blog primarily to keep my Video station accessible till I can figure out a new way to do it over there.

If anyone even wants to watch it. If you are ever bored at work,or wherever give it some viewing, and I'm sure the BFN (Big Forward Network) will keep you entertained.

If you are viewing my page through RSS feeds, don't worry about the vids.

here it is

http://www.partyat45rpm.wordpress.com

Pretty easy, but if you find it difficult, hit the link below. See you on the flipside!

CLICK HERE FOR THE NEW BLOG PAGE

Somebody Snitched

2008-12-21T14:25:00.000-08:00

Barry Gordon-Nuthin' For Christmas (Somebody Snitched Remix)

I almost forgot to re-up my Christmas Remix. Drop this for the next few days!

100th Post: Five Jumpers to end 2008

2008-12-19T19:25:00.000-08:00

This is a nice time for Dancehall. A whole trailer load of Big Tunes have been dropping, temporarily overshadowing Reggae's other child, One Drop Culture style. This is beyond the old school big breaks from Hip-Hop with lyrics mixed over the top. This is what I would call "Jamaican Hip-Hop". Though not so much "Yes Yes Yall" as it is "Gangsta", these tunes are nice fixtures here in Southern Cali Dances.

Look for my latest mix with this theme at the New Year, entitle "Shogun Selector", already on the street.

Here is 5 for the end of the year, and to celebrate 100 posts. BLOP BLOP

Collie Buddz-Day & Nite Remix
I received this remix via DJ C-Cyde from Bermuda. To me this tune is MAD! I barely started playin it last week, so let me know if you feel it. I could use some help as to which this is a remx of, but it's wicked!!!

New Kingston-In The Streets (Heavenless Riddim)

I support this young crew to the fullest. They are turning out to be much more talented than my first percepiton, and I know they have a real bright future ahead of them. How could you not, working in the studio with the likes of DJ Pee Wee, also being the i-fficial backup band for Collie Buddz. In The Streets is FIRE!

Kardinal Offishall Ft. Barrington Levy & Busta Rhymes-Number 1 (Tide Is High) REMIX

This remix struck me as almost a new new tune. Hot on the heels of a big tune called "No War" by Barrington Levy ft. Kardinal and Busta, this drops. The original featured Rhianna and is twice as fast as this slow bouncer. Regardless, it's pretty tough and falls right in line with the Hip-Hop Dancehall crossovers.

Charley Blacks-Rich Dis Year

This is the only photo I could find of Mr. Blacks, but the tune speaks for itself. The hustle is on, and the grind is getting ground. 2009 is goin to be big for everyone!

Niether of these artists are new to the party, and I'll be damned of Weezy doesn't just keep poppin up. Ok, I gotta give him his dap:

Jr. Reid Ft. Lil' Wayne-Ghetto Youth Rock

There. Jr. Reid, Lil Wayne, Ghetto Youth Rock, Murder!!!!!!!

Have a safe New Years y'all. Keep it jumpin!!!

Hugh Knight

The Beginning Of The End

2008-12-16T00:45:00.000-08:00

Alot of really good blogs have bit the dust lately. Some, if not removed, have been issued warnings from Blogger.com because of their pirated content. I have seen many of my favorite blogs getting e-mails from Blogger, stating the violation of the internet copywrite laws, and such.

Jah School happened to be one of the most resourceful Reggae Audio Blogs I had come across, and was just removed yesterday. R.I.P.

This Blog revolution is winding down, and I'm not sure how long we will be around. Know that, although it may be a bit of time between posts, I am going to keep the Party going till the wheels fall off.

JamieFoxx Ft. LilWeezy-NumberOne

Busy Signal-About My Money (Showtime 2K9 Riddim)

Vybz Kartel-Court Case

Santogold & Jay-Z--->

2008-12-04T12:57:00.000-08:00

New Jay-Z featuring a sample from the latest Santogold.
Brooklyn Big Up...

Santogold-Shove It

Jay-Z-Brooklyn Go Hard

Jump It

Cyaan Frighten Mix Available Online

2008-12-04T12:44:00.000-08:00

My homeboy Big Skip over at Super Duty Tough Work and his brand Heavy Manners has collaborated with Tribe Of Kings' own Dash Eye, to bring you a scary hardcore dancehall mix hosted by the one and only Demarco.

Although the mix has been in circulation since Halloween, via The Fader, which eventually bogged down the og server, it is now being linked pon a new server, and us here at the Party support this project to the fullest.

Go straight to the blog and link it.
Click Here To Reach Download link

Jump It.

Funk Is It's Own Reward: 7 International Funk Jumpers pt. 1

2008-12-03T00:15:00.000-08:00

I been sleeping on my peoples, so I am flashing 7 international funk joints as a token of my apologies.

Things are busy round these parts, which is a blessing, so give thanks for sticking around...

Jump It........Hugh

7 International Funk Jumpers

MENAHAN STREET BAND-MAKE THE ROAD BY WALKING

From New York City, this side band is a collaboration between Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings and The Budos Band. Sound familiar?

THE UNIVERSALS-NEW GENERATION

Mega rare 45rpm. Holler at your boy if you got a spare copy. The Universals out of Florida.

DAVID AXELROD-KEN RUSSELL

American producer extraordinaire David Axelrod. You should already know bout him.

T.P. ORCHESTRA POLY-RYTHMO-LES DJOS

SUPER BORGOU DE PARAKOU-CONGOLAISE BENIN YE

Alright. I'm stumped. I know they're African. Just Jump these mugs.

ANANDA SHANKAR-DANCING DRUMS
Ravi Shankar's nephew. Super bad indian boogie.

DAVE PIKE SET-MATHAR

Dave Pike ain't really Indian, but this is some old Psychedelic ish to make you flashback...

Black Dynamite Trailer

2008-11-30T15:14:00.000-08:00

You gotta check this:

Black Dynamite Trailer Click Here

Wicked!

SPLICE DUB FUCKERY

2008-11-16T15:33:00.001-08:00

Just a public service announcement to all Soundmen worldwide.

The Dub Plate game is grimey, causes headaches, and full of snakes. Those that are throwing their hat in the dub plate ring are definietly in for some ups and downs.

This is an example of what you do not want to get from a dub plate "Broker" that says he can get you a Damien Marley Dub Plate for 100 dollars. First of all, if you have a good link for dubs, and they offer you a 100 dollar dub plate, you are probably getting a good link up. If you are getting a first time offer from someone peddling dub plates, and they offer one of the biggest artists in the industry for 100 dollars, BEWARE!

In The Dub Plate game, there is a term used for certain dubs called Splice Dubs. This is where someone gets a dub plate, then renders it and inserts a fake artist shouting out the crew that ordered the dub. This is a gambit, and gives the sound business a bad name. Everyone runs into these when building their initial dub plate links in Jamaica, and some people make careers doing this type of thing. Be weary of Myspace posts, and spam e-mails saying "Big Dub Session" or "Mavado dubs for 150 dollars".

Here is an example of Splice Dub Fuckery, courtesy of San Diego's Champion Sound. Trust me when I say we ended up getting justice, and receiving some wicked dubs in this ones place, but this sucks.

Jamrock Splice Dub-Fake Damien Marley

Notice how the voice changes between the authentic Jr. Gong Intro, and the parts where the crew shout outs are done.

I get a kick out of hearing this type of thing, just because some fools really think they can get away with this type of foolishness. The reason they can, is some of you out there are not well informed. So lets make sure we are smart, and don't give these guys a meal from a scam!

Jump It, Don't Splice It...

Experience Tribute

2008-11-14T20:20:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure if you are aware, but Jimi Hendrix is my all time favorite. Above and beyond Hip-Hop, Reggae, etc... He is the beginning of many things that I love about Rock and Roll, as well the music that spawned from it.

This is our Tribute To Jimi Hendrix, Mitch Mitchell, Noel Redding and Buddy Miles.
The Jimi Hendrix Experience and Band Of Gypsys.

It's not a mix so I can try and show you how sick I am on the cut, these guys deserve more than that. If I were given the license to put together a comp, I'd shoot for something like this.

Party At 45 RPM Tribute Vol. 1

01 Midnight- Jimi just rips into this instrumental right off the bat. I believe it was released on War Heroes originally, which was a set of Rare and Obscure studio tracks.

02 Who Knows-If you are already familiar with Band Of Gypsys, then you got this one memorized. Originally released on the Band Of Gypsys Live album If you didn't know, it's Buddy Miles on the drums.

03 Born Under A Bad Sign-Fonky Blues instrumental. Kind of kills it. First time I saw this was on the "Blues" album.

04 I Don't Live Today- The Experience from their first release. Heavy duty.

05 Driving-The Experience recorded in the BBC studios in London for Alex Korner's Radio show. Guitar solo the whole way. Kills.

06 If 6 Was 9- From The Experience's second album. Sparse but harsh. Mellow but MAAAD!

07 Villanova Junction-Jimi Hendrix's performace at Woodstock may be the most remembered and revered of the latter part of the 20th Century. Villanova Junction was part of the Star Spangled come down, toward the end of his set. MURDER...

08 Earth Blues- This is from a bootleg of a rehearsal session with the Band Of Gypsys prior to their Historic performance New Years 1969-70 at the Fillmore East.

09 1983 (A Merman I Should Turn To Be)- From the third and final offical Experience album "Electric Ladyland". It's a long one, so twist up something nice.

10 Hey Baby (New Rising Sun)- This is the only Studio version I've heard of this, but was first turned onto it by his live performance in Hawaii, released as part of a movie called "Rainbow Bridge". Looked for it for awhile, before the whol;e internet thingy.

11. South Saturn Delta-First time I heard this was on this weird audio-mentary called Lifelines. It might have been finished posthumously, but it's interesting because he is playing alongside The Brecker Brothers. Smashes regardless.

12. Killing Floor- BBC recording. The big guitar men in the business around Jimi's time feared Hendrix because of his rendition of Howling Wolf's classic. Kills all the way through.

13 Bold As Love- From The Experiences second album "Axis: Bold As Love". One of the illest compositions I can think off.

14. Purple Haze- LIVE IN SAN DIEGO. To my folks from Daygo, your parents are probably at this joint from 1969 at the San Diego Sports Arena.

Alot of lesser known tunes I would say, but some of my favorites. Long live Hendrix.

Rock It
hugh

R.I.P. Mitch Mitchell

2008-11-13T12:32:00.000-08:00

Man. Mitch Mitchell was a wicked drummer. He actually inspired me to try the drums out, which lead to beatmaking which lead to...

Mitch was originally trained as a Jazz drummer, and played with some pretty hip London Blues bands (See Georgie Fame) before linking up with Chas Chandler and Jimi Hendrix for an audition. Just listening to drum break on Little Miss Lover, and hearing Busta Rhymes "Row Row Like A Dungeon Dragon" shows Mitch's power on the skins. Pretty incredible also, is the way he keeps the drums steady moving on "Manic Depression" as the whole rhythm and melody floats over the top.

Rest in Power to the whole Jimi Hendrix Experience, Mitch Mitchell of which, was the last surviving member.

I'm growing weary of having to say R.I.Power to so many legends this year. Buddy Miles, who backed up Jimi Hendrix during the infamous Band of Gypsies performances also passed not too long ago. Please, no more legends passing in 2008!

Jimi Hendrix Experience-Little Miss Lover (Live On BBC)

Jimi Hendrix Experience-Manic Depression

Obama Text Messages

2008-11-05T12:34:00.000-08:00

I got a grip of them yesterday. Here are some of my favorites:

"Obama the first black President!! Free bbq chicken, chitlins', watermelon, and 40's at the White House tomorrow. Be there & bring blunts! We run this shit now!"

"They have a sign up sheet for volunteers to help Bush pack his shit and get the fuck out on Nov. 5th. I put us down for the 3-8 shift."

"Wow...some truly unbelieveable shit"

"Barack around the clock tonight!"

"Just a reminder to shave your genitals today...It's the last day for Bush"

"Straight to Pakistan!!!!!!"

Here is some celebratory music for all the stoned dancers this week...
Jah Cure & Wayne Marshall-So High
Big Up Massachusetts for decriminalizing possession of u nder an ounce of Marijuana.

Jump it!!

HOPE: I hope I'm wrong

2008-10-31T10:31:00.000-07:00

I've been trying not to get into it with anybody regarding the election. I have a viewpoint that has made people get up in arms with me. Like most of my beliefs, I just kind of keep them to myself so that I don't outwardly offend people.

I think Baseball is shit, and I don't promote it. I think Sodomy is nasty, and do not promote it. I think Christmas is an excuse to boost Mega Corporations sales at the end of the fiscal year, and not to celebrate Jesus.

This is my blog though, and Nov. 4th is approaching, so I can say pretty much whatever the hell I want.

BRAND NEW Dead Prez-Politrikkks mp3

I think voting is a farce.

The Generations before me have this saying, that if you don't vote, you don't have the right to make a complaint. That actually makes alot of sense, back then.

The election of 2000, and the events therein completely convinced me that our beloved Democracy died right there and then. The end of innocence. It might have been decades before that, but it became mighty apparent to me that night while watched the news coverage of the election. We voted, and We voted for Al Gore. Yet George Bush became the President. How did that happen? How could it?

I believe that we really didn't have a choice. There was a plan set into place, and George Bush had to win in order for it happen. The plan was introduced by W's father, George Sr., when he unveiled his plan for New World Order.

For 8 years our country faced perilous calamity, and things are fucked. But we had hope that the powers that be would be dishing out Justice from 9-11, and we would be able to rid the world of the vicious Terrorists.

Of course this looked bad for the Republicans. Their policies had thrown THE WORLD into a state of fear, hatred, and danger. Our economy has been destroyed, our homes are being taken, our pockets are emptying out and hope is all but lost. And I believe this is by design.

We have lost hope that things will get better.

When the people are hungry, you promise them food. When the people are poor, you promise them money. When the people have no voice, you promise them a voice. When the people have no hope, you promise them hope.

Symbolically, Barack Obama is an icon for change when people are demanding it. He is a symbol of the progress Black people have made in gaining a foothold in a country that has done everything to hold them back as much as possible. Just 50 years after Blacks were "given" the right to vote, they now have a champion that gives them hope of actually being given their propers as Human Beings with the same Human Rights that White Folks have hoarded for centuries.

Where most try to avoid the race card in this election, lets just get to the point. Barack Obama is going to be getting most of the Black vote, because of his color. Why has there been such a registration boom by Black voters?

It's a sign that our country is moving beyond it's hatred of those not White, and why wouldn't any Americans with ANY common sense get with that program. He speaks directly to those that are hurting from the mistakes the administration before him made, and he promises change.

Give the people a choice between the oldest Presidential nominee in history, with his STUPID ass excuse for a Vice Presidential nominee, next to someone that shows NO flaws, who are the people going to vote for, and be satisfied with? I have seen the same videos you have seen, with mad racist fucks in the midwest saying stupid ass ignorant shit. Any of us with common sense have seen this and made it a point to vote and fight against these people. But it just seems to hold the same realism as an episode of Survivor. They just look like they are starving, but they aren't forced to starve.

I tell you what. A part of me really wants to believe him. A part of me has been waiting for him like Jesus. Seemingly straight talk, and a bold maneuver away from the things that have ruined our taste for the government.

But are we being naive? Are we falling victim to another wolf ticket salesman? I believe so.

The machine we call America has so much riding on the line, that one man cannot come into the pit and change the world. Just as George W. Bush, who came off as the biggest idiot this country has ever called president, was the face of the country, he was merely a puppet. Unfortunately, I see Obama as being the face of the same machine. The more we are divided between ourselves as Red & Blue states, Republican and Democrat parties, Liberals and Conservatives, the more we are being duped into thinking they are not one in the same.

I believe this charade we call elections, is already set. Barack Obama is our next president. We will be relieved that things are going to change. When they don't we are going to say, it's ok, he's still trying to change it. Because he's Barack Obama and we believe in him as much as we did Martin Luther King Jr., or JFK. Yet when the genuine articles were in a position of power, they were killed in cold blood by the same people who made sure the 2000 elections became a coup de tat.

So when my good friend was appalled by the fact that I would not vote this November, we got into a heated argument. He told me this was the only way for my voice to "officially" be heard. Just because the Presidency was hijacked before, and our votes did not matter then, they must matter now. Because we HOPE we still have a hand in what going on with our country, and have some sort of say in what our representatives do.

I'm not mad at people who vote. I don't look down at them, or think I'm smarter than them because I believe in some Kooky conspiracy theories. I think it is shameful that we are criticized for speaking out, yet are encouraged to have our voices heard in this one little gesture given to us as our democracy bonus. Being an accessory to something as degrading as lying to an entire country, and empowering them with a false sense of importance under the guise of Democracy does not sit well with me, and I can't in good conscience be a part of it.

Am I saying you shouldn't vote? No. You should do what your heart tells you to do. That's what I'm doing.

Am I Anti-American? No. I don't believe so. Do I have a better plan? No I don't believe so. Am I going to fall into line with the rest of us who believe what we are being told? No, I don't believe so.

Either way, I hope I'm wrong. I hope that Barack Obama is going to defy History's lessons, and make good on changing this country for the better. We need it. And if I am wrong, I will gladly admit it because I am not entirely hopeless yet.

Maybe just jaded.

R.I.P. Rudy Ray Moore-A.K.A. DOLEMITE

2008-10-20T12:19:00.000-07:00

At 81 years old, Rudy Rae Moore has joined the list of legends we have lost this year. Rudy's raw X-Rated rhyming comedy was one of the prototypes for Rap music. His stand up was NASTY (See numerous 2 Live Crew samples), and his movies were BANANAS (See The Human Tornado).

Since I been on the cinema kick, I will start you off with this likkle gem, and you can follow up by watching his other crazy flicks.

Rest In Peace Rudy. You have given us HOURS of laughs!

LINK TO DOLEMITE TRAILER ON YOUTUBE

Rest In Peace Fadda Ellis

2008-10-11T18:04:00.000-07:00

R.I.P. ALTON ELLIS 1944-2008

Here is the official word on Alton Ellis

2008-10-10T12:22:00.000-07:00

As read on yardflex.com

"Rumors were dispelled this week by family members of Alton Ellis, who is very much alive, yet very weak in his battle with lymphatic cancer.

The legendary rock steady/reggae singer has been hospitalized for several weeks now in the UK and his son Clive told The Star that the family is not very optimistic at this point for Alton’s chances of surviving this cancer fight.

Saying his dad is having serious trouble breathing, and remains motionless and mum, his son said the family is regretfully unable to hope for the best, but is anticipating the worse at this time. Clive said Alton is very weak but he is still here."

Man this is bummin me out!

Get Well Fadda Ellis

2008-10-09T14:01:00.000-07:00

Man...I fell for another internet rumor. I was so shook by it that my original post was a rest in peace.

Get Well Soon Fadda Ellis!

This is but a sliver of wood from the beams that built the house of Reggae music. Some of my favorite Alton Ellis Classics.

Alton Ellis-Rock Steady
One of the initial tunes to set off the Rock Steady movement.
Alton Ellis-Cry Tough (Extended Version)
One of the roughest Rude Boy cuts known to mankind.

Alton Ellis-Ain't That Loving You
Ain't That Loving you was remade famous by another fallen soldier, Dennis Emmanuel Brown.
Alton Ellis-Mad Mad
Mad Mad is the original version of what has come to be known as the "Diseases" riddim, recoined by the tune by Michigan & Smiley of that name.

Alton Ellis-I'm Still In Love
Another Monster Classic that has been covered and remade numerous times. You should already know bout this one...
Alton Ellis-I'm Just A Guy
I'm Just A Guy Riddim eventually became known as the "Vanity" riddim, and is another heavily recut riddim.

Summer Tour Pt. 4: Coast To Coast

2008-09-14T15:55:00.000-07:00

Now that I've settled back into my cozy house in Daygo, I'm finally getting around to my photos. Please bare with me with the amount of pics, and lack of tunes.

Truckee

Truckee is a community that lies along Lake Tahoe in Northern California. The mountain men and women made their way out, and were a pretty wild crowd. When I first rolled in, I couldn't believe they were about to squeeze 1500 people in this "Theater", but it filled up and cracked off.

Pepper rocking out.

This is Bubbler. A veteran keyboardist, that plays with Sly & Robbie. Bubbler has played keys on many important Reggae tunes, including the opening keys on Althea & Donna's "Uptown Top Ranking".

Butte, Montana (That's BEWT not Butt)

I woke up, not knowing to expect of Montana. When I exited the bus, we were on this block which looked like a run down ghost block from the 20's. Our show was in an old Railway station, that was transformed into a venue. The inside of the depot was converted into a dancehall/concert hall and we set up outside in the parking lot. Since I am an avid freight graff lurker, I took this time to walk the line and check it out.

Caught a Sever piece, circa 02

No train lurk would be complete without catching a hobo tag by the one and only Solo Artist. "Widely Unknown Indeed".

Some good old Montana rebel graff.

Cherinne Anderson blessing the Butte crowd

Kaleo. Guitarist for Pepper.

Brett. Bassist for Pepper.

C Money and Dela, the horn section for Slightly Stoopid. THis was the first session I saw where Sly and Robbie joined the boys onstage with Half Pint.

My bredren Alkebulan was telling me that this kind of show would make no money in Jamaica because the fans would park outside and stand on top of their cars to watch. I guess the same holds true for Butte.

As we rolled into the Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado, we were expecting this to be the peak of our tour. Unfortunately, it was raining and cold when we arrived. SLEET even. I walked the bleachers to get a view of the place, and it's incredible. Mad music legends have graced this natural amphitheater, including U2 when they filmed their live DVD.

Half Pint with Slightly Stoopid doing soundcheck.

Sly Dunbar.

About 10,000 people in attendance. Due Paid.

This is the most folks I ever played in front of, yet my favorite part of the show was the after party. I loaded my rig into the trailer, and made my way to a dressing room 3 flights above the stage built into the rocks. With only about 4 people in the spot, I immediately spotted Half Pint on the mic by himself, singing over Studio One versions. Within minutes the whole place was packed, and ramming as the mic got passed around and everyone was dancing. Peter Gayle, Half Pint, C-Money, OG, and myself traded mic duties, and the place got hot! (Didn't have no time for flix)

Salt Lake City

What a f'n wasteland. Smells like rotten death, overrun by mosquitoes, and hot as shit. (The city is nice though.)

Don't be fooled, this isn't the beach you're used to.

The Great Salt Air

Sly said he likes to sit low on his kit, because it feels like he's driving a race car.

Robbie Shakespeare, Nambo Robinson, and Stepper

The crowd at the Salt Air

New York City

We pulled into Secaucus NJ, and I immediately jumped on transit, and headed into the city. I met up with my boy Jay, and he took me on a Dutch Master clouded tour of the Lower East Side. We ate at Kate's Diner, which is one of the wickedest Vegan diner I ever been to. They must have been fimling some show, cuz the block was filled with 70's cars, including this fuzz cruiser which was even manned by some 70's looking Detectives.

I had the open faced Ruben, equipped with Vegan Corned Beef, Kraut, and Vegan Cheese. This place was off the hook, and they even had an ajoined bar. A Class!

Here's some other flicks I snapped

OG Jammy's Dub Plate. Apparently while digging for records, you can find these around town. WICKED!

This dude Curtis was up pretty thoroughly on our route.

We trooped across the Williamsburg Bridge to Brooklyn for tourist sakes.

We made it to a bar that served 32 oz. beers in styrofoam cups, and strolled around and smoked blunts.

We ended up at a bar and checked for DJ Queen Majesty, and ran into my boy Jon Cardiel. Small world.

After hitting Max Fisch's, I hit car service (way better than a cab) and stumbled into the bus about 5am, which was parked outside of Roseland Ballroom. The show was the next night and was pretty slamming! WE trooped around the tunnels below the historic venue, and blew some more Dutch's.

After the show, I made a solo mission down to Times Square, and soaked it in for a minute. The place is sensory overload, with more blazing advertisements than I've ever seen in 5 blocks.

Thats enough for now. I will finish my tour log with my next entry.

Big Up Jay for taking time our of your hustle to show me the city.

DISTRESS: New World Order Day

2008-09-11T15:47:00.000-07:00

No parties, or gifts, or cheap decor today. Just the memories of misery, pain, and fear. It's been years since Terrorists attacked New York City, and justice has not been served.

It's frowned upon that I would call them Terrorists, since they state they stand for Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. We as Americans, are not allowed to question the motivation behind our glorious Empire, or else we support the enemy.

It is ironic that we are quick to go to war against "Terrorists", and "Insurgents" yet that's the exact role we are playing in the world.

So for New World Order Day, our festive rituals will not include searching for eggs, carving a turkey, or unwrapping gifts. Today we will take part in lying, cheating, and unprevoked violence in the name of the Empire.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH ZEITGEIST THE MOVIE

Trust me you fuckers, we will NEVER forget. Call it a grudge...
Immortal Technique Ft. Mos Def-Bin Laden

Rage Against The Bloodklaat Machine!!!

2008-09-05T09:53:00.000-07:00

Rage Against The Machine Acapella at the Republican National Convention

Bone Chilling. Have we forgotten Rage?

Summer Tour pt3: Rock N Roll Fantasy-West Coast

2008-08-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

I hope that my folks are still with me here. I been meaning to leave some things for you, but my life has been spiraling into a mad state of sketchy showers, sleeping on a bus, and rocking crowds in numbering in the thousands five nights a week for the past three weeks. I wake up in another city everyday, and just when I adjust to the place, I'm out. It's not a bad thing though, this touring business is incredible, but crazy.

Lets Start from the beginning...

I got off the plane from my island tour ate some food, slept for an hour, then ran to Mr. Henshaw's house to get things together for a rap show we had that night. The show was nice, and we played with a Rock Band called Rambo Knife. Somehow I made it through the night, slept in my own bed, and got prepared to hit the road.

Our first "Official" tour gig was at the HArd Rock Hotel in Las Vegas, inside a venure called "The Joint" (Our real first gig was in Ocean Beach, and all I can say is OB knows how to party)...
The line up is Slightly Stoopid, Pepper, and for the first few shows The Expendables. And myself...

The Joint was just a warm-up. I woke up back in Cali, for the first of our real gigs, at the Costa Mesa Amphitheater. This was a sold out show, with 8500 in attendance. This is why I say Vegas was a warmup.

Santa Barbara was where Sly & Robbie and Taxi Gang showed up. It was funny cuz the whole crew is yardie, and they were running late so they were hastily setting up everything up. I don't know if they realized I was DJing, until I got on the mic. When I was was done they were all staring at me kind of confused. When I finally caught up with them between sets, they were mad cool, and showed me mad respect. The best is Sly Dunbar hailing me up "Yes General. Big Up DJ". The real treat is that they brought Miss Cherine Anderson on the road with them. She co-starred in the Jamaican Motion Picture "One Love", and has been creating a hell of a buzz in the Jamaican Dancehall Scene. She has got one of the best voices I've heard as of lately, and she gives me chills when she starts off her set with "Redemption Song".

Cherine Anderson-Movie Star

There was this fat loudmouth DJ from a radio station who thought he was real hot shit, and he was bandstanding every chance he got. I mean, big up yourself for being the top rock DJ in SANTA BARBARA, but ease the fuck up...Anyhow, I wont go in depth, but the dude was full of himself (And probably Biscuits and Gravy)

Santa Barbara Bowl was pretty nice though

We had our first day off in Boise Idaho, and I made a little stroll around the immediate area to check the sites. They are refurbishing their state capitol, so the thing looks like a grey version of everyone else's capitol building. (Pretty exciting as I would say).

My first cool experience in Boise was breakfast at Goldy's. Their claim to fame is being featured on the Food Network's Diners, Dives, and something or other. And their Hollandaise sauce. It was definitely the cool place for the Boise's hip people to eat off their hangovers by the looks of the patrons. I wasn't super hungry, but I got this Smoked Salmon Hash plate which was one the best things I ever had.

I found my way to Boise's only Record store, which was heavy on the indie rock, which meant that their Jazz section was priced to move. I found one of my favorite records there, which I had previously paid 20 cuts for, and I copped it for 2 Dollars.

I caught a couple random Graff flicks, but there really wasn't much more than rebel tags, and a couple throw ups.

Scar seemed to be the guy most up on the streets of Dtown Boise.

The Boise Show was pretty cracking, and the people seemed to really go crazy out there. While I was playing my set after Sly & robbie, I have been getting in the mode of playing the "Midnight Hour" Riddim, starting with the Silvertones original, then into Tarrus Riley's Protect Your Neck. The front of house guy on the boards for Sly & Robbie comes out next to me while I'm DJing, and I turned and looked at him, and told him the Tarrus Riley was my favorite tune. He looks at me and goes "I produced that one." I cocked my head slightly in suprise and said "Yeah man, I do Fat Eyes". It turns out that their soundman is none other Bulby, the man behind MANY a reggae hit. His latest riddim being the new General Penitentiary riddim. I was mad hyped at that moment, and been picking his brain ever since.

This is Bulby and Cherine after the Boise set.
Boise also introduced Half Pint to the tour, who makes his way out into Slightly Stoopid's set for 3 or 4 songs. Half Pint is one of my all time favorite Reggae Singers, and is really a treat for to be on the road with him. For those who have sleeping under a rock for the last 20 years, check this.

Half Pint-Political Fiction

A Little Boise After Party session.

Next We played Marymoor amphitheater, right outside Seattle, Washington. The venue was beautiful, and the backstage dressing rooms were in this old historic mansion/museum. I thought it was pretty cool to be scrubbing my ass in a museum.

My boy Skip, from Heavy Manners and one of my favorite blogs Super Duty Tough Work made it out for the after session, and we got into a cool conversation with Half Pint about Jammy's and such. Pretty wicked show!!!

Peter Mann and Half Pint

The next show was in Eugene Oregon, and this crowd was unreal. Lots of lurkers across the stream behind the stage, getting wasted and dancing in the woods. Lots of good herbs, and good vibes.

Interesting idea for a business going on here.

I was picking wild Blackberries all hippy like and shit. They told me to only pick them above waist level cuz mad rock stars piss in them I guess.

Eugene A Dweet!

We returned one last time to Cali, to rock the Legendary Greek Theater in Berkeley. I was lucky to have my boo come meet me out there, and we got to run around Berkeley for a minute. I was also luck to have my boy Sonny Phono meet up, and I was back with family for the night. The herb smelled so sweet from the crowd out there, and they packed in early.

This is pretty good for now. We crushed the West Coast, with sold out shows in almost every city. I'm now on the East Coast, and I got mad more photos and tales to follow. Give Thanks for being patient with me, and still popping through.

I have been dealing with real slow Net connections, so when I can, I will update some more. We have 5 more shows through the south east all the way to Florida, then we start the slow trek back West. To all my folks that have come through to check me, big up! Its good to see familiar faces when I'm out here.

Soon Come...
Jump it!

Summer Tour pt1: Bay Area

2008-07-15T14:47:00.000-07:00

Your boy just touched back down in Daygo after a WICKED Bay Area trip. Since my digging was limited, I will post this little ditty I picked up. Maybe some of you might know it

I played with Jah Warrior Shelter Hi Fi at Club 6ix and had a blast. That club is always a good time. If you are in the Bay I highly recommend their Thursday night party at 6ix.

Sacramento and Capitol Garage were off the chain as well. I'm new to carrying a camera so I completely forgot to snap any flix out there. Big Up Esef and KDK, and of course The Capitol City Rockers.

Saturday I chilled, and made a late night walk to THE BEST late night food jump off I've had in a long time. Crepes Au Go-Go is in a gully ass spot in SOMA area of SF. The place is just a trailer in the middle of a lot surrounded by barbed wire fences. There are no seat, or tables. You have your choice of one musty, ragged couch, or another shady ripped up couch. Don't let grimey atmosphere fool you. This is the jump off. It's across from Slims at like 11th and Mission or something. (The address is found on the side of the trailer).

While I'm at it, I should put people not in the know, onto some real good eats. And it's far from Shady.

PAPALOTE has the closest thing to my type of Mexican Food, for many reasons, they grill their tortillas instead of steaming them like the other spots. This spot is the jump off, and mad vegetarian stuff too. Plus the salsa is off the hook, so off the hook they charge you after your first cup, cuz they know you'll be back.

I BARTed out to East Bay the next night, to link with Smoke at the Shattuck for King Of Kings Sundays, and that was bananas.

Big Up Smoke, and DJ Juan Love (If you know Juan, ask to see a picture of his foot). Big Up the East Bay Posse for making it a banger.

Big Up Sonny Phono and Baby Beat!

I'm off to Guam tomorrow.
SHOOT--->

Jump It!
Hugh

Random RSS Link of the Week

2008-07-08T18:37:00.000-07:00

RSS Feeds are the shit. This album is so ridiculous. Not in a "That album is the shit" kind of way, but more like "WTF??" kind of manner. Use your own discretion, but I had to pass it along.

Ranking Cobra-Obama-2008

Summertime Summertime

2008-06-30T13:54:00.000-07:00

It looks like my summer is going to be alot busier than I thought. For my folks that know me, and check for me through this little humble webpage, I got some serious works coming up.

July 10th-14th
San Francisco-Sacramento-Berkeley

Thursday July 10th
I always like playin at Club 6IX, especially when my folks from Jah Warrior Hi Fi are in the house. This event is their weekly dancehall jumpoff, and the spot is always a good time. Basement vibes, and a wicked soundsystem.

Friday July 11th
My boy Esef in Sacramento does a surprise banger a block from the Capitol Building at Capitol Garage. The spot is not the biggest, but the vibes are huge, and the people are ready to wine it up. If you are anywhere near the area of DTown Sac, come shoot through...

Sunday July 13th

This is my favorite party in the Bay Area. Smoke-One has held down this party at the Shattuck Downlow, and has let me play there periodically for the past 4-5 years. It's usually what I look forward to when I go up there, whether I'm playin or not. Smoke always has big artists performing, and the place gets pretty mashing.

Wednesday July 16th

I'm off to visit all my Chamoro Chelus in Guam. I'm flying out to celebrate Liberation with the people, spin some music, and take part in a pre-promotion for the Jabawockees tour touching down on the Island the next week. I'm hoping to dig right into some parrotfish, and some red rice and finadene as soon as I touch down. I real hyped on making my way there again, cuz the place is serious paradise...
Fokai Familia, we'll be touching down on Fujita Road soon enough.

Thursday July 24th

I'm touching down in Oahu for a few days before I ship back to the states, and linking up with my boy H.O.P. for some certain hijinx. Last time we went, I slept outside twice, almost killed myself body womping atSandy Beach, jammed out on the north shore, and pretty much did whatever we could squeeze into 3 days.

Last time I was out, I was blessed to be able to take part in a party, "Redda Fire" hosted by Jahson The 45 Revolver at the Living Room in Fisherman's Wharf. Last time I played, I was pleseantly surprised by the Dancehall scene these guys were building, and was up till 4am on Bobo Roots and Patties. Really looking forward to this jump off.

I'll be touching back down in Daygo for a couple of days, but only to get my ducks in line for the next month. I'm jumping on a tour bus July 30th, and heading cross country on a full blown amphitheater tour (click for dates and locations) with Slightly Stoopid. I won't return till September, but I should be giving updates on our progress as we move.

I'll be joining acts, alonside Stoopid, like Pepper, and the original rhythm twins Sly & Robbie. Looking forward to taking in all that the different cities have to offer, and if I'm coming to your town, drop me line beforehand.

Stay tuned, and I'll give a nice load of tunes before I bounce. For now, here's Original Jimmy Cliff.

Jump It...

Hugh Knight

SONER TV25 FPC

2008-06-23T15:06:00.000-07:00

So I'm usually on some music stuff, of course, but alot of my people are heavy into Graff and Art. Hence I have put together a little collection of recent photos my man Soner has sent out from Dallas, Texas. Soner is originally from Daygo, but relocated some years back, and has been actively pursuing his art interests, and rocking out, in Dallas at a ferocious pace. He is constantly sending out flyers for different shows he puts on out there, and is obviously putting it down. I could go on about his talent and shit, but I'll let the flix do the talking...

For all those in the Dallas area, check out the upcoming Bragging Writes battle

LA RUMBLE 2008

2008-06-18T10:54:00.001-07:00

Last weekend was another installment of the LA Rumble, one of California's biggest Sound Clash's. It was LA's Black Gold, OC's JFX, and SF's Jah Warrior Shelter. If someone would have asked me who would win, I would have put my money on Jah Warrior. Black Gold came through with Big Tunes though. Same with JFX. I am posting a link to the Audio so that you can find out for yourself. I'm also attaching a link to a segment we played on our Radio show Royal Jelly Reggae Show on jellyradio.com which features pre-clash interviews with all the sounds, put together by my bredren Dash Eye. Check it out, and leave a comment on the outcome...

CLICK HERE for LA Rumble Audio.

CLICK HERE for Royal Jelly Pre-Clash Feature.

A Millie Riddim

2008-06-14T12:30:00.000-07:00

A Millie Riddim Pack<-------Link Up---

Lots of buzz about "The Carter III". Apparently Lil Wayne dissed all the mix tape DJs, and in return the DJs did their best to flood the net with a leaked version before it came out. It looks like their attempt to ruin Weezy's release failed, cuz on the first day he sold over 400,000 CDs. Weezy sounds as if most of his album is off the dome. Which makes me more of a fan. While I am foreign to Southern Slang, he nails it with this album. If you asked me who was King of the South, I would snatch that crown from T.I., and toss it to Weezy.

A Milli (Produced by Bangladesh) was instantly the big classic from this album. Murderous bass, and a stripped down rhythm that leaves lots of space for the MC. It took me having the album one day before I started finding all sorts of versions. I have compiled the best 4 that I've found (So Far) and zipped them up to form what I call "A Millie Riddim". This contains "Freestyles" from Jadakiss, New Comer Tyga, and a wicked version by Jay-Z called "A Billie". And of course the original.

I would say to the hip-hop community, MORE VERSIONS. I'm speaking of course in the Jamaican sense of the term. Having multiple artists on one beat is the shit (See Dancehall).

One more Weezy Bonus I just picked up, and we'll call it a weekend. This is a good one for the dancers.
Lil' Wayne-I

If anyone got some more versions to share, leave a link in the comments.
JUMP IT!...Baby Huey

Gangster Boogie

2008-06-12T11:36:00.000-07:00

Let's Boogie...

This is from the days when Gangsters did more a than a little two step. The 1970's when Hard Drugs were taking over the streets, and big guns were readily available. Lincoln Continentals and Fur Coats. The early 70's, when the Crips were an organization who's goals were alligned with the Black Panthers. When Hollywood was glorifying the images of Black Pimps, and Hood Rich Criminals with style and finesse.

While these tunes aren't making reference to Gangsters, any Gangster will tell you these joints are on some Gangster Shit. Straight from my playlist, with the same title, these are some of my favorite Old School Jams that are guaranteed to leave gashes in your Carpet. Being born and raised on the West Coast, Old School funk goes hand in hand with Palm Trees, Lowriders, and Gunshots. San Diego Stand Up.

I can't think of a more important tune for the West Coast than this tune. The handclaps and bouncy, electro wah bass might as well be playing out of everyone car while cruisin'. Roger Troutman (RIP) not only revolutionized a whole genre of Hip-Hop in the late 80's and early 90's, his trademark Vocoder sound has returned in full force to mainstream music from Hip-Hop, to R&B, and believe it or not Reggae Dancehall. T-Pain should donate a percent to the Roger memorial fund. If you put this tune on, any real Gangsters in the place will take the floor in a flash.

If Popping and Locking have a Soundtrack, this would be the opening theme. Al Hudson & One Way are another group that pushed the West Coast sound in the same fashion as Zapp. While Cutie Pie is the main banger, this one is harder to me. Of course the vocoder is in full effect, and the bouncing bass will get your Robot hand moving.

Electro Bass at its finest. The opening 4 bars is a harbinger of the the funk that follows. While Fatback is even credited as putting out the first rap record, this tune is the clincher. A hitter with the Gangsters, as well as the Ladies it's as simple as blending in the intro and letting the tune blow. If you're looking for the good stuff, look no further. I'm attaching a special bonus with this tune that is a certified Gangster Party Hit!!!

Last but not least, the GREATEST Gangster Boogie Joint of all time. From the men who made your funk juicy. This is guaranteed to rock ANY party you play at. Even if there are no Gangsters in the house. This is just a great fuckin tune! Ladies and Gentlemen I present: Knee Deep!

As a bonus, I feel inclined to lace you with a quick Jamaican Gangster Banger.

Mavado-Nuh Bleach Wit Cream (Daybreak Riddim)

Shouts To Sonny Phono for gettin me on track with my Blog game...

JUMP IT!

Hugh

R.I.P. Bo Diddley

2008-06-02T13:54:00.000-07:00

Rock N Roll Pioneer Bo Diddley has just left us as a result of heart failure. He was 79.
If you love anything that has to do with popular music from America in the latter half of the 20th century, you already know what kind of influence Bo Diddley had on EVERYTHING!

Bo lives on in legend...

(Press pause on the above player then watch this BMF)

R.I.P. Poison Dart Selectors

2008-05-28T13:16:00.000-07:00

In another tragic case of violence concerning Reggae entertainers, two Selectors from Tampa, Florida's POISON DART SOUNDSYSTEM , Tony Montana & Chris Rock, were gunned down outside of a club in Auburndale, Fl.

Those in the Soundsystem community should be well aware of Poison Dart, and the news is shaking the Florida dance scene. Condolences to Kirky C and the whole Poison Dart Family.

Read the story HERE

Poison Dart Homepage

Carribean Cops (Episode 1)

2008-05-23T12:09:00.000-07:00

DancehallReggae.com has a forum that is full of Haters and Shit talking. It's also full of cats that love Reggae music, and anything Carribean. I found this link on there, and since I watch COPS all the time, this was like a gift from heaven.

Carribean Cops Ep. 1 (AVI)

It ranges from Tourists to Gangsters. Pretty interesting. I would love to see more episodes. I assume this was broadcast in the UK originally. Check it out.

AND OF COURSE...The Tourist that gets caught with weed is REPPIN DAYGO with that Chargers hat. What can I say, we gotta have it!

New Artist Push! Pt. 1

2008-05-17T12:39:00.000-07:00

Man, things been busy lately. Give thanks for still checkin in on me! 7 Gigs in 5 days leaves my blog a little neglected. You'll notice I added my Mogulus player on the blog, in an attempt to keep you coming by in my absence. In comes the Big Forward Network, and if I get savvy enough, or free up some time, you might even catch a live broadcast one day.

So as we move forward, I am taking the opportunity to help introduce some new artists to your ears. Definitely take some time to check the tunes, and check their links!

WINSTRONG

Winstrong is a new artist in the Reggae/Dancehall scene that I feel deserves a big push. He's a got a nice voice, and a great message. He has been making his rounds in California's Bay Area, and creating quite a buzz. If you are feeling this artist, get in contact with him, and get him to your city as soon as you can. Play his tunes in your set, and spread the word!

Winstrong-Sound Of A Gun

CLICK HERE for Winstrong on Myspace

J Will

I had the privilege of sitting down with J Will face to face for our radio show. He is full of energy and charisma, and backs it up with a sweet voice that sounds at home over Lovers Rock vibes. J Will was nominated for a Grammy for songwriting, and has been singing at dances throughout Florida. While touches on reality lyrics, he quickly admits, he does alot of his music for the Ladies. Support this artist by playing his tunes in your set, and put your people on!

J Will-Joe Bwoy

CLICK HERE for J Will on Myspace

Ziggi

Europe's Reggae scene has been bubbling hot lately, and Holland's Ziggi has been a force to reckon with. He has been popping up on popular riddims over the past year, and deserves an extra push. You may have heard his version over the Come Around Riddim "Blazing", and his tune "Cry Murdah" over a Hip Hop/Roots Hybrid riddim. Check this latest tune on the wicked iLove Riddim. SUPPORT SUPPORT SUPPORT!

Ziggi-Need To Tell You This (iLove Riddim)

Need To Tell You This Video on Youtube

CLICK HERE for Ziggi on Myspace

I will have another round of artists in a few days.

Jump It!
Hugh

Hugh Tube Again

2008-05-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

Just A Couple Likkle Tube's for you to waste your time with.

I can't front, the new Gnarls Barkely is ill. I had a stack of new CDs in the whip, including the new Portishead, The Biggie Hendrix Experience, and couple others for a little road trip. "The Odd Couple" is the CD that stayed in for the next week. I'm feelin it.
This is another crazy video, filmed on loaction in J.A.

Another Obama endorsement. This time from none other than Mad White Jamaican (J.A.) and Splurt (Denmark). Not sure if Obama wants this endorsement, but it's pretty funny.

If this is your first experience with MWJ Here is some more

This is some crazy ass DJ shit, like you may have never seen. I never have...

If you are tired of the vids, peep out this site if you got a spliff or two and some time. Dub Selector Site at infinitewheel.com. Pretty original.

More music to come, just hold tight...
Hugh

Wizardry and Our Children

2008-05-06T00:03:00.000-07:00

SO... this Substitute Teacher in Florida was accused of "Wizardry" and fired from his teaching job.
Click Here For The Story

It just so happens that it's magician week on Letterman. What exactly is Wizardry?

Dictionary:1: the art or practices of a wizard.
Wizard: 2: one skilled in magic.

Ok, so he's a Wizard! Grab the gasoline and the stake!
Maybe this place is accepting resumes.

I was once taught a few things from a Wizard myself.

Please excuse my attempts at sarcasm, I just needed an excuse to post some Sabbath!

Here's a little Iron Man for ya...

While I'm sure Harry Potter is safe for Students, a match trick is not.

Missing In Action

2008-05-02T17:25:00.001-07:00

Between moving and gigging, I been spread too thin to get anything of real substance up, but don't fret, I'm settling in, and getting more time on my hands finally.

While I been too busy to post, I been checking all of my favorite blogs daily, so I wanted to share some links for y'all, and let you know what I been checkin:

Super Duty Tough Work
My man Skip always delivers, whether it be Heavy Metal artwork, Reggae Music, Underground fashion, Graffitti, and just about anything I find amusing. Skip heads his new Clothing Line "Heavy Manners" , and got some quality things to offer. Take a look!
superdutytoughwork.com

Jah School
Jah School keeps me in the loop with Reggae music, whether it be New Riddims, or classic albums. These cats are hard at work, kicking out 5-10 posts a day (minimum). You won't be disappointed!
Jah School

Yard Flex
These people got their finger directly on the pulse of all major Reggae runnings. Any and all newsworthy material passes through this site. Find out whats really happening yard side!
yardflex.com

You & Me On A Jamboree
Based out of Brazil, I really don't know what these guys write about. They are apparently on the Rudeboy/Ska/Rock Steady tip, and kick down alot of old classic music that is hard to find. You can even catch some wicked soul records from time to time. Check out what they got.
youandmeonajamboree.blogspot.com

All Up In Your Earhole
J Blow is a wicked DJ. The kind of DJ that stays very busy on the decks, and strays from the lazy DJ habits of so-called DJs these days. He also dabbles in a lot of remixes, and has a good ear for Good Hip-Hop, Funk and Soul. Definitely put this in your RSS!
allupinyourearhole.com

DJs Alive
Run by DJ Alive, this blog deals with remix services, and re-edits. From classic Cameron Paul Vinyl, to nowadays DJ Slick edits. There are also handfulls of party break releases, and anything party rockers need to seal the deal.
DjsAlive

Who Cork The Dance
These cats are helping to preserve Reggae history, by digitizing Classic recordings of Live Jamaican dances, dating as far back as the 70's. You want to really get a lesson in Dancehall culture, this is the place to start.
whocorkthedance.blogspot.com

Royal Jelly Reggae Show
I also been real busy putting the our Reggae Radio show together, and have been blessed with two weeks of heavy interviews with up and coming artist J Will, as well as Legendary artists Michigan & Smiley, Sammy Dread, and Johnny Clarke. The show is Mondays from 8pm-10pm (PST), and can be accessed either directly on Jelly Radio, or through Itunes Radio Stations. Go the Hip-Hop section and look for Jelly Radio.
Royal Jelly On Myspace
Royal Jelly Playlist Blog

RSS Feeds
Thanks to my friend J Blow, I was put on the technology known as RSS Feeds. If you are not a beginner, you can skip this. New Bloggers might want to make use of this technology. Most e-mail services offer a RSS widget, but I personally prefer to use my iGoogle page. If you have gmail, create your own custom homepage, and add the RSS feed widget. Then you want to to start your google Reader page. There you can subscribe to blogs, and never miss content. You also have the advantage of not having to troll the blogsphere trying to catch up on posts you've missed. With the iGoogle homepage widget, new posts arrive daily just like e-mail... Please allow me a late pass on this shit, I'm not as computer savvy as others.

Last but not least:
In place of a music link today, try this:
Mega Super Mammoth MP3 Blog List « Gravy Bread
Here is a big list of Music Blogs you can filter through and check some for yourself
Click here for more Blogs

Jump that shit!
Hugh

300 lbs. Of Herb Chune:420 Special

2008-04-20T16:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took part in the 420 Cup. A local version of the Cannibus Cup, held in good old Ocean Beach. While I spun tunes for 3-4 hours, I had to judge 7 strains of the bombest herb I've touched this year. While I voted for the Godzookie strain (I shit you not, it's really the name), some other strain won the cup, and not suprisingly I can't remember the name of it. Seedless Clothing pulls through some crazy shit sometimes.
Then I played a party till 4:20am at the Chinatown lofts with the Voz Alta Family. Cumbias, Hip-Hop, Reggae, and mad spliffs were going down. These cats really know how to have a good time.

For this months installment, we are going to step away from the world of Reggae music for a minute, and go back to a time when I was learning to roll blunts, learning the difference between High Grade and Low Grade, and listening to Weed Anthems. When I was a Junior in High School, I attended the Soul Assassins Tour, at Starlight Bowl in San Diego's Balboa Park. My partner and I found a sack of Chronic on the floor, saw Funkdoobiest, House Of Pain, and Cypress Hill. I seem to remember at the end of the show, everyone rushed the floor area, people started rushing the stage, and I saw Everlast put his big ass shelltoe in someones face. Great show.

Here are some of my favorite herb tunes from the era.

Cypress Hill-I Want To Get High
Cypress Hill-Stoned IS The Way Of The Walk
By far one of my favorite Hip-Hop groups of all time. West Coast Stoner Gangster Music from LA. The first two albums were the soundtrack to my High School movie. Produced by DJ Muggs, who is a Grandmaster of the SP 1200, the beats have the eerie crunch of the samplers low bit sounds, and give the album the ultimate Stoner Rock punch.

RBL Posse-Dont Give Me No Bammer
Around this time, I only knew Mexican herb, with the exception of what people called "Skunk". After I started getting my hands on better herbs, people started calling it the "Chronic". Money was not in abundance, but I began to see the big difference between High Grade, and Bammer. Bammer was what was affordable, and it was everywhere. Now, I won't even buy herb if it's Bammer. I'd rather not smoke.

DJ Quik-Tha Bombudd
This is one of the first Hip-Hop Herb Tunes I can recall, and invokes a likkle Reggae vibe. Very much a novelty tune, I had no idea at the time that the herb I was smoking while singing along to this tune was not the Bombudd. Actually, I was smoking Bammer.

The Pharcyde-Pack The Pipe
If any group out here on the West Coast was an indicator of the changes inHip-Hop to come, The Pharcyde was it. Real Hip-Hop from Los Angeles that didn't have to be Gangster to knock. Bizarre Ride II The Pharcyde was always in rotation, and evokes so many old memories when I hear it. Pack The Pipe, and toast to the good times.

The Alkaholiks-Mary Jane
Before we move away from the West side, I can't move on without dropping the Liks on here. True, the first album "21 & Over" evokes more memories of Malt Liquor in the park, that memory is not complete without the smell of Herb burning in the air. In the spirit of Rick James, the Liks deliver their love song as an ode to Marijuana. Their first album is by far their best, and still holds firm as one of my favorite Hip-Hop albums of all time.

Redman-How To Roll A Blunt
The East Coast herb movement, if nothing else, spawned the worldwide Blunt phenomenon. When Redman was featured in High Times, with a tutorial accompanied my step by step pictures on how to roll a blunt, everybody and their mom was trying their hand at it. All the cheap cigar manufacturers found new life, in this young market that really had no need for the cigars guts. Redman has mad herb tunes, and I could post a whole entry on just his Herb tunes. Certified Herbman Classic.

KRS-One-I Can't Wake Up
This tune, from the Teacha KRS-One, is not so much a tune singing the virtues of smoking herb, it's more of a play on the imagination. KRS's little anecdotes for each hip-Hopper of the day lends extra laughs to this already comical concept. Pure Classic.

Channel Live-Mad Ism
One more for the BDP Posse. This time KRS is alongside Lyricists Channel Live. Once again, all we do is Spark Mad Ism.

420 Bonus Chune

Black Sabbath-Sweet Leaf
Nuff Said...

Mavado Endorses Obama???

2008-04-17T13:11:00.000-07:00

Not sure the Obama camp wants this endorsement, but this is well wicked!

Politrix as Usual-04/08

2008-04-08T15:37:00.000-07:00

Food for Thought: Mexico, Canada, and USA, coming together to create one larger body of land under one government. "One bank, One Army, One center of power." The North American Union (or, get used to it, NAU), and the Amero are part of a grand scheme that consolidates power over an entire continent.

Right now, mad powers are at work to build a mega border across the entire Mexican/American down here from Cali to Texas. The border to top all borders. Not the case on our Northern borders, yet all three countries are apparently unifying. So why would so much emphasis be put on building a complex border system, when the goal for the near future is a borderless system underneath the umbrella of the NAU? If we are moving towards unfiying, why is this "Wall" being built at the same time? Our gated community that will import cheap labor, yet attempt to keep deny entry to those who carry a chunk of the machine's maintenance.

Choose your own conclusion, but it looks like we are building a country sized Ghetto. (Berlin?)

War-The World Is A Ghetto

Food for Thought: Power to which people? All power to all people? Or is it reserved for those who are created from the same bloodline? (See Illuminati if you got some time to kill, and some time to create your own theory).
Bush, Cheney, Obama share same bloodline

Be forwarned my fellow Americans, all is not as it seems.

Leo Graham-3 Blind Mice

It took a lot longer to build Rome than to burn it...

Max Romeo

Max Romeo-No Peace

Jump It Like You're Out Of Time...

ROYAL JELLY PLAYLIST 3/31/08

2008-04-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

March 31st 2008

In The Mix: UNITE

On The Mics: MARCUS BLACK, JESTER, UNITE

Foundation

Vin Gordon-Red Blood

The Silvertones-Midnight Hour
U-Roy-Midnight Hour
The Techniques-You Don't Care
Derrick Harriott-Solomon

3Blind Mice Riddim
Leo Graham-3 Blind Mice
Dillinger-Ensome City Skank
Buju Banton-Cowboys

Culture

Demarco Better Jamaica
Chezidek-Far-I
O'Neil Peart-Change
J Will-Ganja

I Love Riddim
Million Stylez-Oh Jah Jah
Ziggi-Need To Tell You This
Anthony B-Can't Stop The Fire
Luciano-Jah Deliver Us From Evil

Pure & Clean Riddim
Munga-They Don't Care
T.O.K.-Why Are We Fighting
Turbulence-Hold Firm

Kingdom Riddim
Collie Buddz-Let Me Know
Chezidek-Call Pon Dem
Jah Dan-Mountains To Climb

TOP 5

5. Tarrus Riley-Protect Your Neck
4. Erupt-Click MY Finger
3. Busy Signal-No Go A Jail Again
2. Doh-Serani & Bugle

1. Mykal Rose-Shoot Out Remix Ft. Damien Marley

New Dancehall

Shoot Out Riddim
Mavado-Life Of A G
Busy Signal-Knocking At Your Door
Demarco-Duppy Know Who Fi Frighten

Trouble Mekka Riddim
Delly Ranks Ft. Demarco-Anthem
Vybz Kartel-Smoking Everyday
Shema-I'm Bad

Night Creature Riddim
Anthony B-Dem A War
Munga-Gangsta Name
Deva Bratt-Night Creature
Einstein-Rest It Pan Dem

Black Velvet Riddim
Mr. Evil-Look At Me
Elephant Man-Smoke Everyday
Wayne Marshall- Strictly Weed
Damien Marley-Real Friends

Pon di Edge Riddim
Einstein-Black Rain
Busy Signal-Wine Pon Di Edge
Demarco-War Dem All Day & Night

Jermaine Riddim
Vybz Kartel-We No Tek Talk
Black Rhyno-Story Go A Town
Deva Bratt-Pellet Pellet
Aidonia-Dem Fraid A We

Go Go Riddim
Collie Buddz-Rise It
Mr. Evil-Husslin
Tony Matterhorn-Tour Guide

Gear Box Riddim
Erupt-Click My Finga
Beenie Man-Buffer Zone
Blond Ras-Don't Run In
Deva Bratt-Bag A Talking

Mykal Rose-Real Jamaican
Alborosie-Ting A Ling

LAST TUNE
Pirates Anthem-Shabba Ranks

For more info on the show
myspace.com/royaljellyreggaeshow
jellyradio.com
Royal Jelly Playlist Blog

My Selecta: March 08

2008-03-21T14:52:00.001-07:00

I'm going to take a moment to humble myself, and fan out real hard. This past month has been the memorable in years for my DJ career. I've done two very memorable shows, that are historical moments for me. I'm sharing this, more as a few anecdotes on DJing, instead of being boastful. Mainly because I know one of you can relate.

SISTER NANCY

You may have already seen my post, mentioning the Sister Nancy show we held right before New Years. Before the buzz had even died down, another promoter approached me about having my Sound play at the Reggae Wintersplash event at 4th & B, in Daygo. The promoters idea was to have an all night dance, since the venue was permitted to do afterhours. He wanted to put us on at 3am, and I told him I was concerned with playing that late, because I felt people would leave was the alcohol stopped flowing. He conceeded, and told me we would play right after Sister Nancy, with a scheduled set at 2am. Around the night of the show, I had been purging my itunes library into my Hard Drive, in an attempt to get an upper hand on this whole Serato/MP3 thing. Bottom line is I had only brought music for the set we were scheduled to play, and not the overstuffed library i usually bring with my laptop. Apparently I did not have enough foresight to conclude I would need anything else but my sets worth of tunes.

The promoter linked us witha little VIP booth for the crew, and when I got to the venue about 12:30am, we eased into the booth and let the smoke blow. Within 30 minutes, the promoter tells us Sister Nancy was not there yet, so he needed us to play earlier. I set up my stuff, and then my bredren Rock hits me up about running riddims for his set before Nancy. Of course that was easy, I loaded up his riddims, and did it. Before I could even start my own set, the promoter comes out on stage and says "I need you to play for Nancy too". I asked if she brought riddims, and apparently she had left them at the hotel. That's when the horror of my situation became apparent. Before I could even argue, they called Sister Nancy out on stage. Mind you this was a pure Sound System style performance, so no band required. I rapidly flew through what I had, and realized I only had 4 usable riddims in my selection. She knew the deal, and worked the crowd like a pro. When it came time to run the riddim called "Stalag", so she could sing Bam Bam, we ended up running the version for 10 minutes, doing different songs before she left the stage, and MURDERED Bam Bam for the encore. The whole show I was walking the line of disaster, and ended up pulling it off by the skin of my teeth.

I also used the Rane Serato mixer for the first time, and had no clue about switching between line and phono on this machine. I also had multiple USB dropouts during the performance, meaning the music would cut out in the middle of a song, and we would have to play it off as a wheel up.

Sister Nancy is a serious Professional Reggae Deejay. She handled the situation with such finesse, I couldn't help but be impressed. The historical moment for me, is that Sister Nancy's album "One Two", was one of the first reggae records I acquired for my set so many years ago. If you would told me then I would be supporting her stage show on the 1's and 2's, I wouldn't have believed you.

Sister Nancy-Dance Pon The Corner

EEK A MOUSE

Not a week goes by, and my old friend Rez from Seedless Clothing asked me to DJ at a reggae show going down at On Broadway with Eek A Mouse. At first I was just doing a set, but Rez then asked if I would play for Eek A Mouse. I said for sure, giving him the guarantee I could be ready with riddims for that. One thing I should mention, is On Broadway is a very upscale, mega club, and I had never made my way in there due to Dress Code enforcement, and steep drink prices. To hear that they were doing a Reggae show there, with a very loose dress code made me very curious as to how the night would pop.

I spent the next week trying to track down Eek A Mouse instrumental versions. After doing a bunch of studying, I realized most of his big tunes were over more obscure Roots Radics riddims, instead of over big, more popular riddims. In fact, there weren't very many Versions of his tunes to found at all. San Diego is a HUGE Eek A Mouse town, and I wouldn't be able to pass off the wrong riddims for their favorite tunes. I immediately realized I might get stuck in another situation where I didn't have enough riddims. It took me talking to my man Eaz One in the Midwest, to realize I should call someone locally. I got a handful of viable riddims from my man Carlos Culture, and figured that was my best bet.

30 minutes before the Eek A Mouse is scheduled to perform, he calls me from the hotel across the street, and he kicked me down some more riddims for the show. Since I was fully stocked for the show, I was able to just enjoy myself, instead of worrying about it. What a good time that was. I got to mix up the tunes for Eek A Mouse, and see the show from a whole other vantage point. The highest points for me, were Eek A Mouse pulling out his first tunes he ever recorded. I had never seen that in the x-amount of Eek A Mouse shows I've seen over the years. When he called for the tune "Wicked Shall Not Reign", I got goosebumps as the bass came in. That's a tune that was released under his original name, Ripton Hylton. He called for a wheel up and explained to the crowd the history behind the tune, and ran it again. F'n wicked!

The historical part for me, came in two parts. Number one, you can't grow up in San Diego without being hit off with one of Eek A Mouse's albums. He is second only to Bob Marley in Daygo, and I've known his tunes front and back from real early. In fact, I was reminiscing with homie from High School, how we used to roll around with my friend's older brother J.G., bumping Eek A Mouse, and smoking herbs. This would have been 10th grade for me. Low and behold, when I knocked on Mouse's hotel door, the door was answered by none other than J.G., who apparently befriend Mouse over the years. It all seemed to come back around last night, and I'm still hyped.

Ripton Hylton-No Wicked Can't Reign

As you can see I'm a serious fan. You have to be in order to be a DJ.

Mikey Dread Bonus Footie

2008-03-18T14:56:00.000-07:00

Mikey Dread @ Martini Ranch

Downtown Top Ranking Martini Ranch 2000 something...
Not much to see as far as darkness, but my hat pops up on the dancefloor a couple times.

R.I.P.
Mikey Dread

Thank You Mikey Dread

2008-03-16T18:25:00.000-07:00

Mikey Dread's "Israel Style" is one of my favorite tunes of all time. In fact the whole World War Three album, which includes the tune "Jumping Master", is a genius piece of Roots Reggae work. Heavy on the dub, heavy on the drums and bass, and masterful in Mikey Dread's delivery of his vocals, the album cannot be touched.

I had a gig one night at the Boulevard Club in San Marcos, at a club where Junior Reid was performing. I had to play outside the whole time while the show was going on inside. The gig was kind of a drag, but turned around in the blink of an eye. I was playing Israel Style for the folks burning herbs outside, when low and behold Mikey Dread walks up to the tables. He asked if I was playing the tune because I saw him in the crowd, and I explained to him that it's a staple in my Roots selection, and I had no idea he was in the house. Mikey got a large smile on his face, and said Thank You. I reached out and shook his hand, and told him "No, thank you Mikey Dread!"

It's rare that an artist passes, and I actually feel it inside. I knew the situation was grim for Mikey Dread, after I heard of his battle with a brain tumor. Unfortunately yesterday, Saturday March 15th, he succumbed to the tumor, and has moved on. Of course he's not dead, by any means. With a catalog of great tunes like Mikey's, he will live on in the hearts of Reggae lovers forever.

For Mikey Dread's Bio Click Here

Mikey Dread-Jumping Master

Mikey Dread-Heavy Weight Sound

Mikey Dread-Heavy Weight Dub

Who Cork The Dance, one of my favorite Blogs, posted an old recording Mikey's radio show which was recorded Christmas 1978. You can check the blog, and download the show HERE

Michael Campbell A.K.A. Mikey Dread
1954-2008

Not Clinton, Not McCain, Not Terminator, Not John Wayne

2008-03-14T18:24:00.000-07:00

This is Barack Obama

This Is Cocoa Tea

This is Cocoa Tea's new Reggae Anthem, throwing his hat in with Obama's camp.
Barack Obama-Cocoa Tea

Other than I can see people dancing in the streets singing this tune, I don't have much to say about the content. I'll let you give it a listen, and decide whether it's your new anthem.

Jump it...
Hugh

Rap N Roll

2008-03-08T12:55:00.000-08:00

So just as one person asks me why I never have any rock on my blog (meaning they missed My Previous HughTube post) but the blog would turn into a Black Sabbath Blog real quick. Then this falls in my lap. A mix by Mike Czech??? Mike is the driving creative force behind the Scratch N Sniff Radio show which is syndicated throughout the nation, and a good homie. Which makes me puzzled at why I got a burned copy from this rocker chick (with Lighter burns on her arms) that works at the 7/11 by my pad. Mike, you got a wide fanbase...

The perfect blend of rock and rap and anything else that they are sniff'n. Here's a link to this said mix, as it appears on the net. I think you might be feelin this one.

Download FENDER BLENDER mix here

Here's the info I found:

FENDER BLENDER is a 27 track mix of remixes done by Mike Czech. These and MANY MANY more can be heard each week on SKRATCH N SNIFF, and online at snsmix.com myspace.com/snsmix and snsmix.imeem.com

Here's the playlist:

1 I Wanna Rock! Megamix
2 Gnarls Barkley vs. Buckcherry - Crazy Crazy Bitch
3 The Beastie Boys vs. Eminem - Shake That Intergalactic Ass
4 Cheech and Chong vs. Cypress Hill - Up Insane Smoke
5 Run-DMC vs. Pantera vs. Johnny Cash - Walk Walk This Way
6 Cypress Hill vs. Papa Roach - How I Could Just Get Away With Murder
7 Offspring vs. Ying Yang Twins - Self Esteem Shaker
8 Red Hot Chili Peppers vs. Lynyrd Skynyrd - Sweet Home California
9 The Notorious B.I.G. vs. Queens Of The Stone Age - No One Knows How To Hypnotize
10 Wu-Tang Clan vs. Johnny Cash - Johnny C.R.E.A.M.
11 Weezer vs. 2Pac & Dr. Dre - Beverly Hills California
12 Kanye West vs. Metallica - Sad Golddigger
13 Beastie Boys vs. Accept vs. AC/DC - Big Brass Balls To The Wall
14 Gorillaz vs. Nirvana - DARE Like Teen Spirit
15 Black Sabbath vs. Cypress Hill - I Wanna Get Sweet Leaf
16 Aerosmith vs. The Game - Dreams On
17 Lil Wayne vs. Helmet - Go Unsung DJ
18 She Wants Revenge vs. Black Eyed Peas - Pump You Apart
19 Prong vs. Lil Jon - Snap Your Fingers, Snap Your Neck
20 Blue October vs. Game - Love Me Or Hate Me
21 Lupe Fiasco vs. Kottonmouth Kings - Kick Push Skate
22 Eminem vs. 311 - Downcore
23 Pharcyde vs. Radiohead - Passin Me High And Dry
24 Red Hot Chili Peppers vs. DJ Kool - Suck My Throat
25 Metallica vs. Kanye West - One Walks With Me
26 Game & 50 Cent vs. Modest Mouse - How We Float
27 T-Pain vs. Def Leppard - I'm N Luv With Sugar On Me

Jump it...Hugh

200 Lbs of Herb Chune

2008-03-05T16:29:00.000-08:00

If you've been to a Reggae Dance hosted by your local Sound System, chances are the place smelled like 100 burning spliffs. The lights were almost non existent, save for when you saw spliff cherries rise into the air as the selector rinsed another big tune. Dancehall Reggae, and Marijuana are close partners, and cannot be seperated by any means. Certain tunes will bust, and no rules or laws can stop the ganja man from blazing his herbs in excitement.

For the second Herb Tune installment, we have the type of tunes that get forwards inside the dancehalls. The type of tunes that make smoke detectors ring. The type of tune that will get you booted from an establishment in the name of Good Good Sensi. Make sure you rizzla is packed tight, and let it blaze

Setting the thing off correctly....

Chronic-Sanchez
First off, Sanchez is one the smoothest crooners of the Reggae universe, so have him sing a herb tune. Second, you put him on top of a reworking of an All Time Classic Riddim like Love Me Forever. Third you play this tune at maximum level, and you've got a sure fire smokeout. Beware, playing this tune may result in multiple forwards. Have your laser beams ready.

High Grade In My Chalice-Richie Spice
When Richie Spice sings it, he means it. Nothing in this world like the High Grade in my chalice. When he sings it over a big Riddim like Swing Easy, watch the clouds rise. If you aren't already knowing about about Richie Spice, then you are required to check for this!!!

Stalk Of Sensimillia-Mykal Rose
The one time voice of Black Uhuru, became an all time voice for the herb when this remake over the Full Up Riddim first dropped on dancers. Mykal Rose's singing style, which defined Black Uhuru's sound, makes for a solid statement to the heads of those who wish to wipe Weed off the face of the planet. How can you stop it? I got it in my backyard?

Give Me The Weed-Jigsy King
As we move into rougher waters here, the voice of Jigsy King demands an ear. He's not asking for the weed, he's demanding it, like a true Ganja Man. State your demands over a big Riddim like Freedom Blues, and start a revolution! This tune is going to get you the forward, trust me. I played this tune on our Commercial Hip-Hop Station on 4-20, in an attempt to see how far I could go with the herb tunes. I look through the glass, and the DJ, Bobby Loco, is bouncing around in the booth with the gun finger in the air...

Smoke The Herb-Bounty Killer
C'mon yall. I mean, really... this should already be in your box. You should already be really familiar with Mr. Rodney Price, aka Bounty Killer. You should already have a memory of lighting up to this one at a dance. You should already know what kind of reaction this one gets... You should play this tonight!

Got It Right Here-Sizzla
This is another no brainer people! Sizzla's Big Tune catalog is deep, but this one can never be denied it's response from the herb drenched dance-goers. Smoking Marijuana like we just don't care. That should be your motto. It should say that on your business card. That should be your myspace quote. Plan ahead, and engrave it on your headstone. Thank You Sizzla.

Smoking weed is a part of your individual Liberty. So stand up for yourself. Free The Chronic. There's nothing in the world like high grade in my chalice from my Stalk Of Sensimillia, so give me the weed, and smoke the herb. I got it right here if you need it...

Jump It
Hugh

Royal Jelly Reggae Show on Jellyradio.com

2008-03-05T10:28:00.000-08:00

Thats right...my Sound has a new project in the works. Every Monday from 7pm-9pm (PST) is the best in Roots and Culture Reggae and Dancehall on jellyradio.com

Let me explain. For almost 3 years now we have been hosting the Jah Glory Show which is currently broadcasting from bigupradio.com. For awhile, I was torn with the show. We were playing some of the biggest current tunes, which included alot of Badman tunes. That didn't mesh with the Jah Glory theme, so we have started our new project. Jah Glory has shifted to a proper Culture set, and Royal Jelly has become our outlet to hold a mix show containing all content, conscious or not.

One feature that has carried over is our weekly chart of hits. So that I may introduce yall to our show, here is our Top 5 from March 3rd.

1. Protect Your Neck-Tarrus Riley
2. Nuh Go A Jail-Busy Signal
3. Doh-Serani & Bugle
4. Blind To You-Collie Buddz
5. Fallen Soldiers-Demarco

2 new hours of Tribe Of Kings in the mix everyweek. Our podcasts will soon be available, for now our podcasts for Jah Glory are available HERE

TUNE IN!

Send shout outs, requests, and anything else too
royaljellyreggae@yahoo.com
myspace.com/royaljellyreggaeshow

Keep it Jumpin
Hugh

Wusupdate: February Marathon

2008-02-27T00:26:00.000-08:00

COPS is pretty wicked sometimes. I came home from the Studio tonight, clicked on the thing, and there are three big old corn fed White cops pinning down a Rastaman, and wrangling him up for what seemed to be a nickel bag of sensi. The Rastaman yelled "Of course it's herb. That's my meditation, that's my religion. Selassie I is my God. Yahweh is my God..." With that they lifted him off the ground, and tossed him in the back of the squad car, handcuffed. Allegedly he threatened to bring his gun back to a grocery store and kill everyone. The Cops said the Ras was getting unruly, and they pulled him back out of the car and threw him to the ground again. All the while saying "Do I look like I give a fuck?!?!"
But in the mean time

Since I been lagging on the posts, here are some of my excuses for my lack of communication:

USA 7s Rugby Tournament,
and
Tribe Of Kings Presents The West Indies Team Afterparty
Feat. Selector C-Cyde alongside Roache (Bermuda) PLUS Khari Kill (Trinidad)

Big up to Cass, and the West Indies Rugby team for linking with us, making this thing happen. I went on Saturday to watch the tournament, and still couldn't explain the general rules of play for Rugby. It looks fun, rough, and apparently easy to lose by 60 points. Fortunately, the real excitement for the weekend was the live performace at our Sunday night Reggae Jam "Uptown Top Ranking". First of all, if you have never heard Roache or Khari Kill, then go straight to the bottom of the paragraph. These two are such talented singers and mic men, they had the whole house ramming. We not only had the West Indies Team in the house skaning it up, we had mad Kenyans (whose Rugby team had MAD fans in attendance at the game).
The clincher was the Wii Bowling Session with Roache and Khari. Big Up!

Picture Of Selassie-Khari Kill (Truth & Rights Riddim)

Tall Boots-Roache (Doctor Bird Riddim)

15 MINUTES OF FAME-2/15-SF

I flew to SF to play for 15 minutes, which actually turned out to be 2-15 minute sets since we were guests to the city. This event was hosted by San Francisco's up and coming promoter Sonny Phono. While the session seemed like it would become a circus, Sonny kept the DJs at bay, and the crowd hyped. I had the pleasure of playing with one of my DJ mentors, Mr. Mike Czech from the nationally syndicated Scratch and Sniff Show, as well as skilled Bay DJs like B Cause, Sake One, Keep Em Running, and others. I was hyped to have Sara from Landlord Jim's and Stephanie from Voz Alta out there with us to help rep for SD. I ended up having the time of my life. If you are in the Bay, and you missed this one, look out for the next installment coming soon!

BOB MARLEY DAY 2008

Bob Marley Day Concert (Or tribute to the legends as they've been forced to call it) was smashing. We played the long expired Arena Lounge inside San Diego Sports Arena, all day. I got to see Capleton, Gentleman, Queen I-frica, Don Carlos, Barrington Levy, and Gregory Issacs ft. Sly & Robbie. The whole show was real poppin', and am glad I got to participate. Capleton took the show...As well as Queen I-frica.
Prophet Rise Again-Capleton
Stop Genocide-Queen Ifrica (Gangsta Law Riddim)

Yadida-ring
I DJed a wedding I never thought I'd see. Best wedding I've ever been apart of. My man Oscar Jordan tied the knot with his new Wife Cora, and it was bananas!!! Congratulations OJ, BOH! First off, I was setting up the sound when in comes the owner of Fargo's Jamaican BBQ here in San Diego, ready to set up the catering. Best Jamaican food in Daygo. I got to chill with old school heads like Kanten Russell and Peter Smolik, plus my regular cast of posse I haven't been able to chill with as of late. OJ C-Walked down the aisle at the end of the cermony. The reception included a 20 minute rap cypher, a 20 minute "Get Retarded in the Reception" Hyphy session which ended in a broken table, and a party room full of tree smoke. Best ever.

Juice and Son

Those are just a couple of the jumpoffs this month, and there are more to come for certain...
My apologies for the lack of posts, as you can see it's been busy.

Jump It
H. Knight

Mykal Rose-Shoot Out (VIDEO)

2008-02-25T14:31:00.000-08:00

Been mad busy, but soon come...

Stupid Tuesday: Politrix As Usual

2008-02-05T09:28:00.000-08:00

I'm not really sure whats going on here. I've been trying to keep an eye on the whole Presidential charade. I had heard that the personal bickering between candidates and mud slinging is more prevelant before Super Tuesday.

Obama and Clinton both must have had their chains yanked from speaking too freely. They looked like they were on a date at the last debate. It's become this drawn out drama, with Hillary shedding tears on more than one occasion. They are both pretty much hollering the same thing, yet the historical value of this ticket can't be overlooked. But is making History really the goal of this election? To bring on the first Black President, or Female president? Call it what you want, but alot of folks aren't looking past that. Of course people are unhappy with what the past 8 years of Republicanism has brought us, and looking forward to a different United States is on alot of people's minds.

A different United States is going to take more than a reimplementation of recycled ideals, under a new name. It's going to take a Revolution. Obama seems to be the most accesable choice for such a thing. Yet is he really going to Revolutionize our country? I had to agree with the general consensus, to completely deny any credibility to the current Republican regime, and almost gave up hope that the Democrats would be the lesser of two evils. My thick headedness almost made me miss one of the most important arguments put forth during this Presidential Race.

Our American Empire has drifted away from it's cornerstone of Liberty, and has fallen victim to it's own tyranny.
Why does the average person get lost in these candidates' rhetoric? They are Babyling. There is not straight talk.

Or so I thought

Ron Paul is a Republican. That fact made me deaf to Paul until recently, and is making me rethink the way everything is done. He is more Conservative than John McCain, yet more Left Wing than Obama/Clinton. He has been attacking a more serious threat to our country than other candidates are bold enough to address. What could be more of a threat than the "Terrorists" to our country? Our own Government!

The more we rely on the people in power to make our lives better, the more we can begin to see that America is a modern day plantation. Freedom is, in part, about using our powers as individuals to live life as we see fit. Why does that seem like a laughable notion these days? Why is everyone keeping the real threats on the hush tip?

Because they are all in the same gang.

I'm not telling anyone who to vote for, or choosing a side. I'm just putting it out there for those who haven't listened to Ron Paul after listening to everyone else. Just listen to Ron Paul after watching part 3 of Zeitgeist The Movie, and see how integral the printing of money, and inflation rates are in the enslavement of our country.

Revolution A Come 3 Pack
While we're on the topic, here is a little set to put you in the mood for Super Tuesday. Hugh Mundell's "Revolution a Come", Paul Blackman's "Earth, Wind, and Fire", and Augustus Pablo's "Revolution Dub". Let's get it together!

100 Lbs. Of Herb Chune

2008-02-01T00:09:00.000-08:00

So far 2008 has shown me plenty of love in the Herb Arena. I may be spending the rest of the year trying to find a strain that can top the "Headband" strain I kicked the year off with. "Headband" is supposedly a hybrid from Sour Diesel, and Kush. East Coast meets West Coast, and it wraps around your brain like a Headband, apparently.

This will be the first of 12 installments this year, concerning music (mostly Reggae) dedicated to Marijuana.

Max Romeo-Quarter Pound Of Ichense

Max Romeo started his career on the Rude Boy, Rock Steady tip. As times and trends were changing, Max Romeo was linking with Lee "Scratch" Perry for sessions that would unltimately define his career. While his most heralded work with Scratch was "War Inna Babylon", many other tunes from the Black Ark sessions with Romeo are top notch. This tune is availale on the compilation Open Up The Iron Gate

Linval Thompson-Marijuana

Linval Thompson is a Legendary Reggae singer, as well as producer and owner of "Thompson Sound" label. This tune has got to be an International Herb tune, skipping through thoughtful metaphors, and getting straight to the point. I Love To Smoke Marijuana. The album, "I Love Marijuana" was recorded at Channel with the legendary Drum and Bass duo Sly & Robbie. Linval has mad tunes under his belt, and many quality hits.

Barrington Levy-Sensimilla

Barring Levy requires no introduction. Neither should his monumental album Poorman Style. Another Linval Thompson production, featuring the legendary Roots Radics band at Channel One. This is just one of many wicked Barrington Levy tunes about weed, which will indeed follow.

Welton Irie-Chalice

Welton Irie is a hard, hard Deejay whose career made the most noise during the late 70's, early 80's. He was originally partnered up with the legendary Lone Ranger to record with Coxsone Dodd at Studio One. Welton's dues were paid on classic sounds like Echo Sound, Gemini Sound, and Virgo Sound. The album that features this tune, Reprobate features backing by Roots Radics, and mixed by Dub Reggae legend Scientist. Welton flips a wicked stutter delivery of his Herb enduced chorus, over a solid version of the Full Up Riddim.
(I was looking for a picture of a Telephone Chalice, if somebody wants to kick down)

Frankie Jones-Don't Smoke The Seed

I can't say I have much knowledge of Frankie Jones, other than the 4 Showdown, or Two Artist Clash, albums. He has released those alongside artists like Pad Anthony, Johnny Clarke, Patrick Andy, and the album featuring this wicked weed tune with Micheal Palmer entitled "Showdown Vol. 4" on Hitbound label. Roots Radics once again lay the foundation for a solid Roots Reggae album, in an early 80's dancehall style.

Blaze it!

Queen Majesty Riddim

2008-01-28T22:26:00.000-08:00

It should already be apparent my affinity for Studio One Reggae classics. Unfortunately, I haven't been giving enough time to another HUGE force in Foundation Reggae. Duke Reid's The Trojan was one of the most popular Sound Systems of it's time. Alongside hit Soul, and Rhythm & Blues records of the day, Reid's soundsystem helped to promote the rise of Ska music. Reid started Treasure Isle records, named after his Liquor store, and cut a major portion of important Foundation tunes.

Many may recall my favorite scene in motion picture history from "Rockers", where Dirty Harry and Horsemouth take over a discoteque, and tell the DJ he's playing too much Disco. The result is Dirty Harry tossing the DJ out of the booth, locking the door, and announcing "I & I come to change the mood" over the microphone as the Queen Majesty Riddim's intro rips through the soundsystem.

The Techniques-Queen Majesty

The Techniques' "Queen Majesty". This riddim has stood the test of time, and still get regular play on Soundsystems throughout the world. The Techniques cut other major classics, including "Love Is Not A Gamble", the Riddim of which is another highly reproduced one. This tunes breaks the ice everytime.

Dennis Alcapone-My Voice Is Insured For Half A Million
Duke Reid also helped usher in the Era of the Deejays, having such Toast Masters under his roof as U-Roy, and Dennis Alcapone. When it comes to Foundation Deejays, Dennis Alcapone's catalog of versions finds his voice on top of some of the greatest Riddims of all time.

U Roy-Chalice In The Palace

U-Roy's "Chalice In The Palace", one of his definitive tunes, and kills!

Tenor Saw-Roll Call
Just to show some later variations of the Riddim, as well as give some space to one of my favorite Reggae artists of all time, here is "Roll Call" by the late Tenor Saw. This is an old time dancehall anthem, equipped with electronic claps. I will one day get more in depth on Tenor Saw, but for now this should do the trick.
Tenor Saw-Roll Call

Sizzla-Just One Of Those Days
Once again, the intro to this riddim sets the dance goers up for a smasher. This time, Sizzla Kalonji introduces himself with his signature vocal cry, and all hands in the place seem to reach for the sky. If you are playing for Reggae fans, then you will hear the whole place singing along, guaranteed.

Plenty other versions out there, so let me know what else you find.
Hugh

Ranking Weezy

2008-01-25T14:38:00.000-08:00

Sizzla Ft. Lil' Wayne-The Only Reason (Reggae Club Re-Edit)
Originally it's Lil' Wayne featuring Sizzla & T-Streets. Since Ranking Weezy's ridiculous Dancehall chat kicks the record off, I decided to make the tune more Dancehall friendly by having Kalonji from the start. Pretty interesting track, and it's hot off the press (What does "Hot Off The Press" translate to in 2008?)

To be honest, it's pretty embarassing that I've put Lil' Wayne twice on my page this month, and I'm not even really feelin' Weezy that much. Many will disagree with my distaste for Weezy, but I can't front, he holds it down. Here's another joint while I'm muddying up my face...

RappaPomPom-Lil' Wayne Ft. Junior Reid

Jump It!

Queen Of The Minstrel Riddim

2008-01-25T13:42:00.000-08:00

Queen Of The Minstrel Riddim

Cornell Campbell's career became history early on in his career when his original vocal group The Eternals recorded the Studio One staple "Queen of The Minstrels". The intro hornline has been etched into the reggae timeline, and returns the listener to the Old Time Dances of Jamaica's yesteryears. I've compiled a number of versions here, including the Studio One original.

Notables included are the Studio One versions, featuring Dennis Alcapone, Sugar Minott, and Glen Washington as well as the Dub Specialist version. Also included is the wicked Billy Boyo version and dub. There are many more versions out there, this will give you a kick start.

When discussing Foundation tunes, one cannot help but to bring up this classic riddim. Old Time Jumper!

Rising from the Ashes of 2007

2008-01-02T15:45:00.000-08:00

Burnt the fuck out! That's really all I can say after the past 6 nights of San Diego party rockin'. People can say what they want about Daygo, but I been in the midst of some serious Jumper shit this week.

Wednesday night: Morena Club w/Dash Eye. Kicked off the end of the year burning with a ramming session at everyone's favorite Reggae Dive in Daygo.

Thursday night: Benefit for the fire victims with Slightly Stoopid. These are some homies from High School that have been having emense success with their music. The party was bananas.

Friday night: DJ'd for Sugabear's rap show, then went to a barely populated set at House of Blues. Still tiring.

Saturday night: Not only the last Landlord Jim's Saturday of 2007, but the last "regular" night. This Saturday is the last night Landlord's is open, so make your way through. Guest host Sonny Phono in the house, and it will be pure debauchery!

Sunday night: Sister Nancy at our new Reggae Sunday night jumpoff. Sold off before 10:00pm. Wicked. Here's a cell phone clip I found on youtube. Quality sucks, but you'll get the picture. Even caught Mike Czech up in the spot, cuz apparently he burnt down his party before he even touched the tables. "Fire, Fire, We Don't need no water...."

Monday Night: New Years Eve at the Waterfront. This place is a sleeper. Mad dancing and overall good vibes. Kind of bonkers if you ask me....

All in all, I'm ready for another great year. Thanks to all who made it out to one, or all of the above events.

Here's to another year of Jumpers.

Hugh

HughTube

2007-12-20T15:08:00.000-08:00

This is for my folks on the job, with nothing to do but check videos on the clock. I know bloggers have probably already touched on most of these already, but who cares,

This footage is priceless.
Muddy Waters & Sonny Boy Williamson-Mojo Workin

Punk Pioneers MC5. Understand these guys were playing in the late 60s, early 70s.
MC5-Kick Out The Jams More Kick Out The Jams

Certified Roughneck
Kimbo Slice Pt. 1 Pt. 2

I didn't quite understand the tune till I saw this. Brilliant.
Snoop Dogg-Sensual Seduction

If that didn't make sense to you, check this:
Zapp-I Can Make You Dance

This just don't make sense at all
Dose Vs. Math-Rap Battle Niether Does This

This movie is a bit of a wake up call. Take some time to peep it out
Zeitgeist The Movie

This video was more relevant than people knew. It still holds weight today. Remember pre 9-11?
Rage Against The Machine-Testify

Legendary Tommy McCook
Tommy McCook Interview

Sheez...
The Day Rock N Roll died

Old Time Killing
Ninjaman Vs. Super Cat-Sting 91

I'll end it on this note

Jump It

REGGAE/DANCEHALL FIVE FOR 2008

2007-12-19T15:18:00.000-08:00

The face of Reggae music is constantly reconstructing itself. From the heart of 60's Jamaican Dance Music, through the heavy influence of Ras Tafari during the 70's, the electronic overhaul of the 80's, the harsh slackness and uptempo jump up riddims of the 90's, to a place where we can find all of these elements in new millenium Reggae. Over the past couple of years, we have seen a resurgence of Roots and Culture "One Drop" riddims and artists. As well, we have seen the melding of Dancehall and Soca riddims, creating a new "Bashment" flavor that is unique to this decade.

Each year a handful of new artists emerge, bringing a new flavor to the overall sound of Reggae. We also see older artists finding new hits, opening new doors to the younger generation. When all is said and done, the sound reigns above all other elements of Reggae fame, and outlives the timely controversy that seems to constantly surround the Reggae community.

The following five artists may not all be new on the scene, but have been making major waves, and major tunes over the past year. There are definitely others to be spoken on, but these artists are under my watchful eye and are promising to be forces in 2008.

TARRUS RILEY

Tarrus, son of Reggae standout Jimmy Riley, has been making Culture lovers melt this year with a handful of tunes that are very remarkable. His new album, "Parables" produced by another Reggae standout Dean Fraser, was released earlier in the year and drew a large mark with the hit single "She's Royal". Tarrus' lyrics are at times deep, and very thought provoking. Other times, they're sweet and filled with good vibes. His voice is memorable, and evokes the same type of feelings I got from hearing Garnett Silk. Tarrus is versatile enough to bless heavy one drop tunes, as well as float freely over faster, more aggresive riddims. I will be checking this youth very closely, and I suggest you do the same.
Get Tarrus Riley's 2nd album "Parables" HERE

Tarrus Riley-She's Royal

Tarrus & Jimmy Riley-Pull Up Selector

PRESSURE

Hailing from St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, Pressure is a fresh new face on the scene. After stirring up much attention on his island with his stage performaces and his first release "The Pressure Is On". He apparently caught the attention of Jamican producer Don Corleon, who produced his latest effort "Love and Affection". The title track from this album is an instant classic, and begs crowded dances to sing along. Pressure seemlessly alternates between smoothe crooning, and rough chat to create a sound that is unique, full of potential, and always on cue with Rasta livity. Also notable, is how easily his music is embraced in Jamaica being an outsider in regards to his home. I know Pressure will be rising over the next year, and I am anxious to see what he has in store for us.
Get Pressure's music HERE

Pressure-Love & Affection

Pressure-Jah Alone

MUNGA HONOREBEL

Munga is not new to the game by any means. He spent the early part of the decade touring with Reggae Superstar Capleton, and the later part rising to the top of the Reggae scene. With direction from Capleton, David House, and Don Corleon, Munga took his place, and seems to constantly find his name is Dancehall fans mouths. His release in 2006 "Bad From Wi Born" sparked a fuse that burned through the beginning of 2007, and exploded last summer. A quick rise to the top created alot of opposition from other artists, and constantly finds himself in beef. The latest, being a full brawl with artist Deva Bratt at the Stone Love 35th Anniversary after the two have been dueling at stageshows for the past month. Munga is known for his use of a vocoder, almost a signature, in nearly all of his singles. This makes him a close sonic comparison to American artist T-Pain. On the flip side of that coin, is Munga's use of Patois chat, and American rap to create a one of kind dancehall sound. Munga has also stirred up nuff controversy with his "Gangsta Ras" persona, attempting to bring together a gun friendly, gully attitude with a Rasta consciousness. With this ever tipping balance, Munga is able to touch on One Drop Culture tunes, as well as the roughest of Bashment riddims. When the smoke clears, Munga's sound is what will be remembered before the controversy that surrounds him. Munga would have been mentioned in a "Reggae for 2007" post, but I am still going to be watching closely to see whats next for the Gangsta Ras.
Get Munga Honorebel's Music HERE

Munga-Take My Place

Munga-Gangsta Ras

DEMARCO

While having less vocal tunes under his belt than other artists here, Demarco has been belting out riddims on the production tip for years now. He has produced tunes for many American Hip-Hop artists, including Styles P, and Missy to name a few. He has returned to Jamaica to make his mark in the Dancehalls, and has been raising eye brows around the world. His recent success with his single "Fallen Soldiers" has made his name and voice more familiar. Also his stand out tune over a reworking of the African Beat riddim called "The Warning" features Styles P and is gaining crossover respect. I have a feeling Demarco's voice is going to become more recognized as he tirelessly works to make his Reggae mark.
Get some of Demarco's 7"s HERE

Demarco-Fallen Soldiers

Demarco Ft. Styles P.-Man A Murderer

DR. EVIL

"Muah ha ha ha ha"

How do I explain my fascination with Dr. Evil's tunes? Anyone who is easily offended by nasty lyrics should stay far from them. Anyone who thinks artists should be boycotted for their anti-batty boy stance should stay far as well. Anyone who hates Gangster Lyrics should just listen to something else. Dr. Evil shows no mercy or restraint, and has left fans of dancehall full of grins. Dr. Evil is an alias for Jamaican Singer/Producer Leftside, formerly of the duo Leftside & Esco. Leftside's evil twin was spawned as a novel promotion tune, and turned into a monster. Starting with "More Punanny" over the Galore Riddim, people's ear were assaulted by Dr. Evil's rapid chat, which sounds more like Eminem meets Austin Powers' Dr. Evil. This all by design. Just when you thought Dancehall couldn't get any madder, it has. So have the Hip-Hop Remixes on which he is featured. He makes no quams about stoking the Anti-Gay fire in the dancehall, lashing out at groups like OutRage from London, who have made it their goal to bring down all of Reggae music. Regardless of his blueprint for controversy, Leftside's delivery is sharp and precise. While the persona is a gimmick, and a novelty, his popularity is rising beyond what Leftside could have ever dreamed. I am keeping an eye on this artist because everyone needs a good laugh sometimes!
You might find some HERE but good luck.

Dr. Evil-More Punanny

Dr. Evil-See Dem A Pree

I ask that you support these artists, buy their music, send them myspace messages, ask your local Sounds to play their tunes, ask your local promoter to bring them out, introduce your peoples to newest Reggae sensations.

Jump It
Daddy Huey

Never Too Many Alicia Keys Remixes?

2007-12-06T14:15:00.000-08:00

I gotta say, Alicia Keys' Single "No One" is murdering it in the dances right now. From Hip-Hop to dancehall, every crowd of ladies at every dance all sing alongside Alicia when the tune comes on. The tradition of Alicia Keys reggae remixes started from her first album, and many different remixes since then have come out. This new one however, has not only numerous Hip-Hop remixes, but 3 consecutive reggae remixes, all on different riddims. I have posted them in the order they appeared.

No One (Remix)-Alicia Keys Ft. Junior Reid

Junior is the king of Reggae crossover remixes right now, throwing his hat back in the ring over The Game's One Blood, then completely annhilating MIMS' "This is Why I'm Hot Remix". You can also find him popping up on a new Lil Weezy joint called "Rapapumpum", Fat Joe's "More Money", and a bunch of others. This is the first "No One" remix I came across, supposedly made by Black Chiney.

No One (Remix)-Alicia Keys Ft. Damian Marley

This is my favorite of the three. Alicia is flippin lite chat, in the form of Sister Nancy's Bam Bam melody, over a reworked version of Stagalag. Damian rocks only a brief couple bars, but the whole remix is a smash.

No One (Remix)-Alicia Keys Ft. Beenie Man

This version is a completely different approach, and is very nice. The acoustic guitar adds a wicked touch.

No One (Remix)-Alicia Keys Ft. Shaggy
A day after I post these three, I find another new remix. This time your boy Shaggy is throwing his hat in. Out of the four, this is my fourth favorite, but still nice!

I'm sure there are more to come, but I guarantee these are going to work for DJs playing at either a Hip-Hop, or a Reggae spot.

Jump It

2007 5000

2007-12-05T15:03:00.000-08:00

I spend some time checkin for Blogs. Not an obsessive amount, but I check out what people are checkin out. I'm not deep enough in the game to have anyone talking about my blog, in their blog, or probably even in their AIM. I do check out alot, and my NEW UPDATED blogroll will reflect what I'm talking about. There is a whole sub-culture behind blogs: Comment Widgets, Piracy, Ettiquette, Marketing, RSS Feeds, Links, Long Winded Opinions, Photobucket. I check for Blogs more than the news, thats for sure. One thing I have definitely seen is the "Best of 200?" blog.

This year I started my blog, and I see you guys coming through to check it out. I'm not sure why, or how, but it's cool that people are shooting through. I have only spoken on myself a few times, assuming that only people that knew me would be checkin for my blog. So for my 2007 recap, I'm just going to introduce myself, in hopes that we'll get to know each other better in 2008.

3rd Grade: Began making Pause Mix Tapes off of the radio.
4th Grade: (84-85): Copped my first Rap Tape at the Swap Meet. Fat Boys "Fat Boys".
5th Grade: My First DJ gig. 50 bucks. Had a combo Cassette/Record Player home stereo, and switched back and forth. My Dad's Mic and Guitar Amp. Rap was not widely accepted, and the parents putting on the party found it too profane, and forbade me to play it. I was reduced to Radio Cassingles and a little Top Gun soundtrack.
6th Grade: My last DJ gig until after High School. Left my records out in the sun, hit the astro jump, the pool, then realized my records were fucked.
Jr. High (88-90): Made Mix Tapes for prospective girlfriends. Remember those?
High School (90-94): Fucked Around doing dumb shit. Freestyled and Drank 40s. Did graffitti. No DJing whatsoever. Learned how to make beats though.

Met Disko Rick (1995): Joined First Power Crew. We had a weekly rap session in Disko's garage. Forty Ounce bottles and mad blunts. Sound familiar? At some point, most of the MCs in Daygo who were doing work, had slid through the spot. This where I learned to play Reggae records, being able to play tunes as people arrived, before the festivities began, Recorded my first songs on 4 track cassette over SP1200 beats from Disko.

Met Mike Czech (1997): Created a Rap group called Roundtable MCs with another fellow MC Wick. Put out three Albums: Roundtable MCs, Universal Discussion, Table Manners. 3 singles: SD Chargers EP, Steady Rockin' (UK), Table Manners EP. We went on tour with Osiris Shoes, and got to perform all over the country.

Mike and I also started putting together Hip-Hop functions locally called "Strictly Hip-Hop" which led to us getting a Tuesday Night at G-Lounge in Ocean Beach. We had live performances, DJs Mike Czech, Iron Mike, Demon, and more played there.

First Reggae gig: Carlos Culture let me open at his Sunday night party in Ocean Beach, and got paid in Guinness. Good vibes.

Joined Tribe Of Kings Sound (1997-present): Started playing Roots with Rashi, Jay Dread and Stump I at a place called The Dog in Pacific Beach, which began our Sunday night legacy. We got the opportunity to move it to Bar Dynamite, at a party called Forward Rhythms. This rocked for 2 1/2 years before it got too big to be housed there. We moved it to Martini Ranch in Gaslamp San Diego, and called the party Downtown Top Ranking. This blew it up even more. We moved it to a bigger location, Aubergine, and called it Super Hit which was under new management. the capacity was 700, and we had two rooms. There was a shootout outside after our first VERY successful month, and returned to Bar Dynamite. Bar D had us for another 2 1/2 years before they were forced by the neighbors to let us go. We had a brief transition at the Kava Lounge, before settling into our new home on Sunday Nights at U-31, called Uptown Top Ranking. We also won San Diego's Champion Sound title by winning a Clash in 2006.

The Rolling Blackouts (2003-2004): The Rollin' Blackouts-No Vacation
Started a punk rock for shits and giggles. It consisted of Gabe Ryan on the drums, Dunning Butler on guitar, Tino on bass, and myself on vocals. We played a good number of gigs over those two years, and only have a couple of recordings. We just tried to create chaos at every show, with friends constantly interupting our shows with wrestling style antics on stage, and random objects flying everywhere. Too bad we fell apart, because it was real fun.

Mr. Henshaw: I got into First Power Crew the same day as Henshaw. We are currently putting the finishing touches on an album featuring me on the vocals, DJ D-Styles on the scratch, and Mr. Henshaw on production. I will give you more of that when the time is right.

I play at different events, which calls for many types of tunes. Let the following tunes be my farewell to 2007, since this month is going to be busy, and give you an idea of the type of content I'll be looking to get into in 2008.

The Cecil Holmes Soulful Sounds-Across 110th Street
This is a track I scored from my homie, who let me digitize the record. If you can find a copy of this record, definitely bid on it.

Spoonie Gee-Spoonie Rappin'
Man...What happened to Rap? Spoonie should be be required listening for all these new school rappers who think they are the Kings of Hip-Hop.

Tristan Palma-Time So Hard
This is one of those tunes that has stuck with me from the beginning of my Selection career.

Chambacu-Aurita Castillo Y Su Conjunto
Aight, this isnt the right photo, but I couldn't find anything for this artist. Cumbia collections always had bad ass bikini models in that old time fashion. This tune kills everytime I play a Cumbia set. "Mi Varrio Mas Popular..."

M.I.A.-XR2 Why do birds, suddenly appear?.......

Thanks for giving me some of your time, and feel free to leave comments, just so I know it's not just The Reverend Sonny Phono chiming in...

I look forward to a positive, and prosperous 2008.

Hugh Knight

Children's Television Workshop

2007-12-01T02:59:00.000-08:00

70s were funky. I was there for almost half of it...

And of course...The reason I think that I love old funk so much. The Closing theme music is a lifetime favorite!

Nuttin For Christmas

2007-11-30T15:27:00.000-08:00

Can you think of a better way to celebrate the birth of one the humblest, and wisest people in the history of mankind? Right now we lie to our children about a supernatural being, we lose ourselves in fits of mass consumerism, and pump out ungodly amount of the Devil's Loaf, commonly known as fruitcake.

What better business manuver than to coax us into spending all our money at the end of the final financial quarter. Jesus wants you to give gifts, and they better be good for goodness sakes. According to my friend Dash Eye, a student in historical Jesus studies, it's accepted that Jesus' birthday was more along the lines of March 16th. So why do we celebrate the birth of Son of God of December 25th? These guys have a theory.

I'm not sure if everyone is celebrating God around this holiest of holidays, but I sure get tired of Christmas songs. As soon as Thanksgiving is over, we are bombarded by Alvin and The Chipmunks' Christmas joint. I came across Barry Gordon's "Nuttin' For Christmas" for the first time the other day, and thought it was pretty dope. The tune is from the late 40's, and pretty funny. Alot of versions of this song were recorded, but Barry's version is tight! I think a better way of celebrating the birth of Baby Jesus, is to make a remix and give it away in the spirit of Santa Claus.

Ho Ho Ho, Stop Snitchin'

Barry Gordon-Nuttin' For Christmas (UNITE REMIX)

2007-11-17T03:41:00.000-08:00

Oh Word? It's like that?

I'm riding Budos Band right now like crazy.

Sorry for the lack of output. Everything I've had to say lately has come out like Terminator X. This means I should have some mixes up for you soon.

All I can say is come to Landlord Jim's quick.

Shantytown Remix

2007-10-30T15:35:00.000-07:00

To be less long winded than last time, here is my contribution to the Marvin Gaye Remix world.

007 (Shanty Town) was a Foundation tune by Desmond Dekker. A few versions of this riddim have arose over the years, notably a couple of years ago with artists like Luciano, Sizzla, Jah Mason, and Turbulence. Just recently Shaggy has released a very weathered version of the riddim that evokes that old time sound, which gives this version it's charm. You can find two simultaneous releases by Shaggy, "Move Hype" and "Bonafide Girl" on this new riddim, as well as a new Collie Buddz version called "Searching" which features Roache Killa.

I've had a positive reaction from it so far. I hope it works for you.

Marvin Gaye-What's Going On (Shantytown Remix)

Riccashay, MC Flow, Kevin Hellman, CityBeat, and the San Diego Music Awards

2007-10-23T16:09:00.000-07:00

I always check the Reader. Especially the Blurt section inside the music section. Only to kind of see what other people are keeping up on...

Thats when I saw a little Blurt featuring my boy Riccashay(Pictured above). Ken Leighton wrote this little blurt voicing Ric's opinion on the San Diego Music Awards, and the winner of the Best Rap/Hip-Hop Artist MC Flow.

Ric was miffed that MC Flow won the award, because he felt that she did not represent Hip-Hop. To his credit he said "MC Flow is good at what she does, but what she does is not Hip-Hop". He also mentions Hip-Hop is about paying dues, and he hadn't seen her pay any dues. While MC Flow is not what I would consider to be the best Hip-Hop group in Daygo, she is trying to do her thing as an artist. I can see that. Whether you like MC Flow or not is pure opinion. Yet I have to agree with him, in questioning how MC Flow is the best representation of Hip-Hop that San Diego has.

Lets look at the nominees:

Addiquit
Blame One
Celio Skilz
Deep Rooted
Lil Al
MC Flow
Miki Vale
Ricasshay

Addiquit is a newcomer to the game, and after seeing her live I couldn't say she is the best representation of San Diego Hip-Hop. While her style is different than any other MC I've heard, I couldn't have given her the award. A Master constantly fine tunes his/her craft before its Mastery.Addiquit's Myspace Page

Blame One. What can I say about Blame One. You really have to hear him do his thing to realize that he is one of the top contenders on the list. Blame's delivery is wicked, and definitely versatile. His content ranges from highly intelligent, to pure braggadocio. Blame has also been slaying folks lyrically for over a decade. When I first met him, he was beautifying a box car. He is deserving of an award. Blame's Myspace Page

Celio Skilz is another veteran out here with a dope style, and solid delivery. He has been in the game out here awhile. Celio is making waves outside of Daygo as well. If he had won, I would not have been mad. Celio's Myspace Page

Deep Rooted has already well proven themselves. Solid production, and alot of talent. Mr. Brady, Johaz, and DJ Artistic have both been putting in ALOT of work over the years. Very good candidate for Best in SD. Deep Rooted's Myspace Page

Lil Al. I have to admit, while I try to seem like an authority, I haven't seen Lil Al live. I do know that his music represents San Diego, with the definitive West Coast sound. He has a strong delivery, and street oriented content. Al also has strong support from the Latino community out here, which is big. If he would have won, I could have lived with that. Lil Al also hosts a radio show on Z90. Lil Al's Myspace Page

MC Flow. I just heard word of MC Flow this year. Her delivery is old school, very comparable to the new trend of JJ Fad-esque flowing. Her "Flow" is not phenom in the least, but more cute. I guess that's what I would call it. Cute. MC Flow's Myspace Page

Miki Vale has gone through a couple Hip-Hop incarnations over the years. While Miki has a soft side, her delivery can be more deadly than an envelope full of SARS. Alot of people are making a big deal about Female MCs, but Miki Vale transcends that label to just Dope MC. If she would have won, I would have been in agreement.Miki's Myspace Page

Riccashay. What can you say about Riccashay, that hasn't already been said about The Witch Creek Fire. (I hope he's reading this). Honestly, I've seen Ric tear rappers apart, rock a solid show, and make people react with his verses. Ric is a professional. He deserves an award. Riccashay's Myspace Page

The way the winner is chosen is by way of internet. And if you had enough people in your circle working at it, you could vote once a day. Once a day? WTF? If the winner is supposed to be people's choice, then why would they let you vote more than once?

The result is not who is the best artist, but which artist can gather the best team to beat the voting system? Sounds like bullshit to me.

Not really a big suprise to me. The Bullshit part. CityBeat is the quasi-authority on local music, and it's editor is Kevin Hellman, who is also the brains behind SDMA (San Diego Music Awards). Before CityBeat, it was called SLAMM. They would NEVER cover Hip-Hop. After people kept complaining, they slowly integrated some Hip-Hop into their mag. CityBeat now covers everything local that has to do with music.

Kevin Hellman made a comment in the Reader that there is no Hip-Hop scene in San Diego, save for 4-5 groups who rarely play. This comment is from the guy who is the head of San Diego's Music Authority? He obviously knows very little about whats going on. I saw 5 groups last week alone. There is also a Hip-Hop TV show, The Grimmie Wreck Show that features numerous Local Hip-Hop groups every episode. Earthboundradio.com is a local internet radio station that features local Hip-Hop DJs, and features artists weekly. There is a couple of pure Hip-Hop shops that cater solely to the Hip-Hop scene that doesn't exist out, and they are both thriving. One being The Armory which has a store located in Downtown, and one in Pacific Beach. and Access Hip-Hop Shop is another Hip-Hop shop in Pacific Beach. Both of these stores specialize in Hip-Hop culture and feature numnerous local artists' product. House Of Rep is party that features live Hip-Hop acts, both Local and National, very frequently. You can find more events here.

Kevin Hellman not only showed he is not afraid to speak something he doesn't know shit about, but his obvious distaste for local Hip-Hop Artists, and the community in general.

I am not going to list the numerous groups in San Diego frequently performing out here. I shouldn't need to for CityBeat's sake. They should already know all of this already.

I noticed one of CityBeat's contributors, Troy Johnson, must have taken a fancy to both MC Flow, and Addiquit. I do not think either of them deserve the nomination over other very active local groups, who have a quality product and an entertaining stage show. They both have a certain appeal to them that I can respect. That same appeal beckons 91X to play Hip-Hop by groups they deem palatable to their market. Whether or not their act will hold up to the critical ears of Hip-Hop purists is still yet to be seen. As Riccashay noted, their presence at Local Hip-Hop shows is rare, if at all.

Riccashay. I had a chance to briefly discuss the Reader write up with him. The author asked Ric if his opinion on MC Flow's Hip-Hop status was based on the fact that she was White, Jewish, and Female. Talk about trying to build a story. Riccashay stood strongly by his comment, which I admittedlyhold the same opinion as well.

To MC Flow and Addiquit: One thing I've learned about expressing yourself on a Hip-Hop platform, is you are asking to be ridiculed in some of the most vicious, and absurd manners you can think of. If you are true to your art, you will keep doing what you love and take critics with stride. If you are indeed truly Hip-Hop MCs, you already know how to handle this situation, and if you have yet to battle anyone, then good luck.

To the other artists in the competition, I award you all Hugh Knight's Music Award for Best Local Hip-Hop/Rap artist/group. We are all paying attention, and we know whats wrong with this picture.

To Riccashay: Thanks for keeping it real. You and I both know that SDMA is a sham anyways.

Hugh Knight
Former San Diego Music Award Winner

San Diego Burning!

2007-10-22T12:09:00.000-07:00

As the sun went down last night, the sunlight was a crazy amber glow. Today the city smells of smoke, and light ashes are beginning to rain.

This don't look good at all!

I already got friends and family that have been evacuated from their homes. As it stands, there are very little resources out here left for anything but the fire, so they've told folks to stay off the roads. If you get in an accident, you are fucked.

1000 fire trucks from outside the county are on their way out here right now, and people are all stuck to the television trying to figure out which area is next...

Currently they are evacuating the area between the I-15 and the I-5 from the 56 to del dios highway. Thats hella west!

Escondido is evacuating, Ramona has been burnt to the ground. Rancho Bernardo is burning and outer parts of Poway. Pomerado hospital has been evacuated as well. To those who are not familiar, thats the northeastern most part of the county.

But thats just one fire.

Far east county is also blazing, and a fire from Mexico has started to ravage southern parts of the county.

Interstate 15 is completely shut down, Qualcomm Stadium is open for those seeking refuge from the fire, and I feel damn lucky to live a block from the water!

Any of my people in the city, if you know me and need shelter, get at me. Even though the conditions are ripe all over for fire, we will be letting the chalice blaze over here as long as the trees are available.

My prayers go out to all the victims of this tragedy!

Push The Tempo

2007-10-17T17:46:00.000-07:00

Not a huge fan of Fatboy Slim. I mean, they aight.

But this video has eluded me till now. What the hell?

Kinda brilliant

Feel The Excitement: JAH CURE LIVE

2007-10-16T13:26:00.000-07:00

Jah Cure LIVE at Reggae Sundance 2007

I won't usually put whole albums up, but this is something ALL Jah Cure fans should check for. It's bootleg of course, but pretty damn clean. You can feel the excitement as Jah Cure finally blesses the stage after 8 years of incarceration. If anything this is a good little piece of history...
Give thanks to DJ Zachariah for this one

JAH CURE LIVE AT REGGAE SUNDANCE 2007---Click Here To Download!!!

Hey, Heyyyy, Goodbye: LANDLORD JIM'S

2007-10-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

The Pioneers-NA NA HEY HEY GOODBYE

Some people would wince at the thought of a bar being the place that you had the most fun. A bar is a place where it can be said that people waste their time and money. A place that breeds alcoholism and sometimes violence. Walking into a bar may be the last thing you remember when you wake up in jail with a black eye and a busted lip. This is a place you might not go back to for months because you jumped up on the bar dropped your drawls when you favorite song came on. Some would say bars are dispicable places.

Being a DJ, I can tell you some of the best memories of my life were inside bars and clubs.

Yeah, I know, Big DJs stick to clubs instead of a bar with a soundsystem, yada yada. When a DJ is tired of having to play what the club wants, there comes a hunt for a place a DJ can just get his/her thing on. A magical place where a DJ can play what they want, when they want, and how they want. A place where the owners aren't being shitheads about printing flyers, dress code, bar tab, guest list, and volume. Instead, the owners want good music, good vibes, and no bullshit. A place where, for a time, there was a trampoline in the back room!?!?!?

It would seem I would have to die first, in order to go to this heavenly place where DJs go to live in eternal bliss.

Instead of an early exit, I found this heavenly place right here on Earth. In fact, right here in my own city: Landlord Jim's Cocktail Machine. LLJ's has the best thing going out here if you ask me. A small dive bar that now sits in a vacant apartment building in the East Village section of downtown. Away from the boojie, touristy, House music infested Gaslamp District that San Diego is (for some reason) well known for. There are three big ingredients in this cocktail machine that make it the best bar in the city:

1. STIFFEST DRINKS IN THE CITY fo' cheap.
2. Some of the finest DJs in the city have blessed the decks there, and still do.
3. "NO COVER, NO DRESS CODE"

I used to go to LLJ's when it first made it's transformation from local scallywag daytime drunkard hangout, to scallywag nightime dancing drunkard hangout. Being right around the corner from SD City College, I used to dip down there after class for a little drizzle before I trekked back to my crib. Sara and Virgina, along with my man DJ JUNIOR THE DISCO PUNK are actually the people who seemed to turn the place around. Originally there was no DJ booth, so DJ's had to set up on the pool table. Of course, there is also everyone's favorite:

TALL CANS IN PAPER BAGS!

One for the G'z, and One for the Hustlaz!

LLJ's has had a problem before with having no Cabaret license. No cabaret means no dancing, and no DJs allowed. For a minute they had DJs doing their thing remotely live from Junior's kitchen upstairs in front a video camera that was being fed through the bar TVs. Eventually the booth went in, and they just decided to do it as rebel as possible.

Notable Memories:

The original Landlord Jim's T-Shirt with the motto "Where The Women Drink Like Sailors." Priceless!

One of the funnest nights was a couple years ago at Landlord Jim's one year anniversary. All the OGs were there, including Brisk One who was out back painting trucker caps with a stencil. I copped a Jungle Green version, and then did a rap show inside with Mike Czech.

Another time there was a crew art show, where Disko Rick and I DJed. In fact that was the last time I ever saw Disko Rick DJ at a spot. R.I.Power!

My favorite memories, one word: Cumbias!

Off the head, here are the DJs I can remember rocking the spot. If anyone is reading and I left them out, my bust.
Junior The Disco Punk, Mike Czech, Disko Rick, Jay Dread, JBlow, Drez, Ratty, @ Large, Buddah, Steven Flex, Phil, Still Life, D-Styles, NuMark, LRS, Sonny Phono, Melo-D, Rhettmatic, Atari, Hippoh, Mark E. Quark, Flo, Mateo, Charle Rock, Mario, Cros One, Ali-Asha, Iron Mike, Profile, Hektik...The list goes on...

While it was cool to be right around the corner from my school, that fact is eventually bringing Lanlord Jim's demise. The people voted to give City College more money, and they are taking over the property between City College, and Broadway. They made everyone that lived upstairs move out, and Landlord Jim's is left squeezed between a closed down Taco Shop, and an Art Gallery/Spoken Word/ live performance venue known as Voz Alta.

When JBlow and I took over the Saturday Night slots, we had no idea when LLJ's would be getting their notice to leave. The general consensus was that it would be sometime in 2007. We knew that we would have at least 90 days from whenever the notice was served, so we might as well mash it up while we can. Thus "Till The Wheels Fall Off" was born, and we haven't faltered since.

Alas the notice was served, and our very last night, including the bar's last night, is January 5th. We are putting togther something real nice for the last night, so stay tuned. If you are from out of town, and will be here before that final date you have to make it through to get a little taste of San Diego History. Mapquest that bitch, and bring yo ass on!

LANDLORD JIM'S HOMEPAGE
TILL THE WHEELS FALL OFF HOMEPAGE
What past customers have said at YELP.COM

Landlord Jim's=Jumper Palace!!!

Libra Time

2007-10-09T02:02:00.000-07:00

First off, since I'm a Libra, I'm posting this tune as a gift to myself.

Link Deleted

Second of all, If you are in San Diego this weekend, shoot through!

This is my Saturday Night Jumpoff and you can see whats its about RIGHT HERE

Third off, if anybody ever asks you "Ain't I'm clean?" You better be ready for the Breakdown!
Mr. Rufus Thomas:

I been pretty busy as of late, so have patience wit me. It's been one Jumper after another, and it doesn't look like it will be slowin down anytime soon!

Truth is, I been in a slump until this Sunday:

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS 41------DENVER BRONCOS 3

EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEASY!

MAAAAAAAAAAAAAAANTRONIX

2007-09-26T16:12:00.000-07:00

I have been a Mantronix fan since the mid-80's. To me, Mantronix embodies the ruggedest form of Hip-Hop, in it's electro form. Electro handclaps matched with huge drums and old school raps. Thats all I need! Mantronix is also responsible for production for some of the roughest Hip-Hop artists known, including Just-Ice and T La Rock.

These tunes take me way back to learning how to breakdance, while bumping Mantronix's "The Cassette" in a rickety ghetto blaster. Break out the parachute pants, put the needle to the groove, and jump it!

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Last War Riddim

2007-09-23T20:25:00.000-07:00

Commonly known as the "Come Around Riddim" since the Bermudan artist Collie Buddz dropped the tune "Come Around". You should be well familiar with this tune by now, since it's an international crossover success has built the man wicked foundation to catapault his career.

Maybe I started too far forward.

BERES HAMMOND

Lets start with this tune, by international Reggae favorite Beres Hammond. The tune is called "Last War" and is a collaboration with Zap Pow. I don't know much else about the tune, besides it's a good tune with a wicked riddim.

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COLLIE BUDDZ

Of course, the next tune is the one that broke this riddim wide open, and motivated other artists to make versions. Collie Buddz "Come Around".

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CHIP FU

So after the smashing success of Come Around, the next version I stumbled across is from Original Fu-Schnickens frontman Chip-Fu. This threw me for a loop, but Chip really kills this riddim. Maybe we will see a reggae album in the works?

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Wicked right?

ALBOROSIE

Another to break through the reggae scene this year, is an Italian transplant to Jamaica known as Alborosie. He has been scoring big hits with tunes such as "Herbalist" and "Kingston Town". Here we have a Rasta tune over the original "Last War" riddim, instead of the harder hitting Collie Buddz rework. The tune is wicked!

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While there are a couple more newer versions, these are my personal favs. There are also a few remixes floating around out there of the Collie Buddz version featuring American rap artists. One features Tony Yayo and Young Buck, another featuring Busta Rhymes, and more. While it sounds like they would work, I tend to find their verses falling off the mark.

Jump It!

Jamaica: Too Much Gang War

2007-09-23T14:42:00.000-07:00

Just a likkle commentary on Gang Warfare in Jamaica:

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

AMEN BROTHER BREAK

2007-09-18T11:41:00.000-07:00

MAN! If this isn't the most decent breakdown of the effect of sample laws, and the effect of sampling in general! See what happens when you free up the music? An entire musical genre spread like a wildfire through the world.

You are not going to catch me posting Drum N Bass stuff, since I am not a big fan of the genre, but this is a very cool video and breakdown. If you ever wanted to make drum n bass, and didn't know where to start, here you go...

The Winstons-Amen Brother (UBB Edit)

Those who are well versed in this song, will know this is not actually the original version of the tune. If you are familiar with the Ultimate Breaks and Beats collections, you already know that some of the breaks featured in these compilations have been re-edited to make them more functional for DJs. You will notice that the break seems to be slowed down. This break was actually originally played at 33rpm, when the record was a 45rpm.

A record like "Amen Brother" was one that DJ's overlooked. It was not functional, since the break is real fast, real short, and on a 45. Although the break was remarkable, it just didn't seem like it could be worked into a break set. See here in an excerpt taken from an interview between Troy L. Smith and OG NYC DJ Quick.

"What about those beats that you had to slow down or speed up to find something on it, is that possible?

Oh yeah the record is by The Winston’s “Amen Brother”. It was a little 45 rpm and it was way to fast. You would take it and tape it to an album and put it on 33 and now you had your break. The first time I heard it I said I can’t use this, it’s to fast. So I put it down for two years, until I heard D.J. Islam play it, but he played it on 33 and I said o.k. See I didn’t know what to do with it."
For the Full interview featured on jayquan.comCLICK HERE. It's a cool little interview for those intersted in digging for Breaks.

I just got my hands on this 45 a couple of months ago, but my needles are missing as of right now, so you'll have to just be content with the UBB version for now.

Big Up to DJ Small Change's Blackcrack, Julie Covello, and Papa Wheelie for puttin me onto this clip, and a great discussion in general!

FOUNDATION:The Soul Vendors

2007-09-13T22:35:00.000-07:00

The Soul Vendors
or
The Soul Brothers
or
The Sound Dimension

The Soul Vendors were the Session band, and musical backbone of Sir Coxsone Dodd's Studio One, during a crucial phase of Reggae's evolution. These players have laid the foundation for all of Reggae music as we know it today. Just look at this list I lifted from www.soulvendors.com. The bulk of these tunes are historical tunes, many of which have version after version of them made to this day.

"These are some of the many hits the Soul Vendors recorded at Studio One during this time.
WAILING WAILERS: Mellow Mood, Nice time, Soul Rebel, Rudie gone a jail, Put it on, Treat me good, Let him go, Bend down low, Sinner Man (Down-presser Man), Let the Lord be seen in you and White Christmas (Gospels), I'm the toughest (Peter on lead vocals)

HEPTONES: Fatty fatty, Baby be true, Party time, Only sixteen (entire "On Top" album)
CLARENDONIANS: Sho-be-do-be-do, Rudie gaan a jail, You can't keep a good man down, You can't be happy until you love someone, You won't see me, Rudie bam bam, when I call you up STRANGER COLE: Rough & tough (entire album).
HAROLD MEIKLE: Beat down Babylon (later popularized by Junior Byles)
BOB ANDY: I've got to go back home
GAYLETTS (Judy Mowatt & company): Silent River runs deep
MELODIANS: Last train to Expo, You don't care for me, Get along without you, Swing and dine, Come on little girl, Little nut tree, You have caught me baby
HOPETON LEWIS: Take it easy, Cool cool collie, Right track, Keep on coming in
KEN BOOTH: Train is coming baby, Say you, Puppet on a string, Moving away, Starlight, Rock Steady, Just another girl, Silver word, Home, My heart is gone.
GAYLADS: Lady with the red dress on, Abc, Stop making love beside me, No good girl, You bring me joy in the morning, Hard to confess.
TENNORS: Pressure and slide, Woo Doctor, Ride you donkey (entire album)
KINGSTONIANS: Winey winey.
LESTER STERLING: Pupa lick.
DELROY WILSON: Dancing mood, I'm not a king, Conquer me, Riding for a fall, Rain from the sky, Can't stand it, Once upon a time.
ETHIOPIANS: Train to Skaville, Everything crash (entire album).
LARRY MARSHALL: Nanny goat.
MARCIA GRIFFITHS: Feel like jumping, We will be together, Truly, I shall sing, Dream land, Melody life
ALTON ELLIS: I'm still in love with you girl, Sunday coming, Can I change my mind, Big it up, I'm just a guy, Girl I've got a date, Let him try, Breaking up is hard to do.
WILLIE WILLIAMS: Armageddon time (re-recorded by the Clash in 1979)
SLIM SMITH: Conversation.
FREDDY MCKAY: Picture on the wall
CORNEL CAMPBELL: Queen of the minstrel
JOHNNY CLARKE: Move out a Babylon
SOUL VENDORS: Mr. Flint, Soul serenade, Soho, El bang bang, You trouble me, Carib soul (LP) and Hot shot (Ska LP). More than one dozen full-length instrumental albums were recorded during this time."

These dudes are some real OGs!

Real Rock Riddim

Quite possibly the MOST versioned riddim in Jamaican Music History. Of course it finds it's creation in the laboratory of Sir Coxsone Dodd. The riddim has been flipped by so many different producers, through two and a half decades. Every year a new handful of versions are recorded. The tune is credited to Sound Dimension.

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Swing Easy Riddim

Another well-versioned classic riddim. The melody takes a cue from "Fiddler On The Roof", blown through horns with fierce fluidity. "Nothing in this world like the high grade in my chalice, high grade in my chalice..."-Richie Spice-High Grade In My Chalice.
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Since I'm in the mood for horns...

Sugar Belly

Although Sugar Belly wasn't in the regular line-up, Sugar Belly is an OG! His roots are planted firmly in the roots of Mento, and recorded a few albums worth of reggae tunes with Sir Coxsone. He created his own horn out of bamboo and cardboard. Sugar Belly is an OG.

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Vin Gordon

Vin Gordon started to play Trombone with the Skatalites in the Mid 60s. They called him Don Drummond Jr, since his style so closely resembled Don D. He played on various Studio One sides, including Real Rock.

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"Foundation's history, y'know"-Ranking Joe

R.I.P. Bobby Byrd

2007-09-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

James Brown's right hand man died yesterday. Any B-Boy should already know Bobby Byrd's voice from the anthem "I Know You Got Soul". I first heard his voice through Eric B. & Rakim's version of the song. This song is still in heavy rotation, from city to city. Big Up Bobby Byrd!

Bobby Byrd-Hot Pants (I'm Coming)

Bobby Byrd-I Know You Got Soul

TRIBUTE TO PENG ONE

2007-09-12T12:47:00.000-07:00

THIS IS A SAN DIEGO SHOW! Roll Out!

Art by some of San Diego's top Graff artists, Reggae DJ, Live Punk Band, and Live Hip-Hop. What else do you want?

I won't usually be posting promotion here, cuz I got 5 nights a week to promote and it would get boring. This, however is a special event.

I Heart Disko!

911 IS NO JOKE

2007-09-11T00:15:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine lost his pops in the World Trade Center Massacre. He always gets furious with me when we talk about 9-11, because of my thoughts on the subject. I always cut myself short, because my opinion becomes salt in an already aching wound. I try to see his side of it, but how can I? If someone killed my pops, I would be rooting for vengeance.

It's hard to try and swallow the "Official" facts we have been fed. I cannot in good conscience just accept things for truth that don't hold any weight. "How's it feel to treated like a sucker? How's it feel to get treated like a bitch?" (see ZEITGEIST for more info)

With that said, I can still be a Patriot. I can still be a proud American. I may not be proud of what a SMALL group of Evil Americans are doing to Human Kind, but I am damn proud of other Americans:

JAMES BROWN

DJ KOOL HERC

BAD BRAINS
This makes me proud to be an American!

BIG TAKE OVER-(see ZEITGEIST for more info)

FUNKADELIC

Yeah, I'm proud to be American! Jimi Hendrix made me that way...

I was on a couch tour in Ocean Beach that day. I was woken up by my friend's answering machine (remember those?) screaming "Turn on the news. They're attacking New York! They blew up the World Trade Center. Turn on the TV..."

My thoughts go out to all who lost someone that day.

POLITRIX: Get Up, Stand Up, GET DOWN

2007-08-31T16:12:00.000-07:00

I was thinkin of doin a political post, and thought, why? I just want a reason to rant today. Politics is just another game I don't really like to watch, similar to Baseball. Basically they both pay their players way too much money to stand around and adjust their jocks, catch a couple flies (Like any good piece of shit does), and take advantage of as many photo ops as possible. They are in the game for decades, but only really get about 4 years of fame (Some 2, some more).

Politics=Politrix

Which leads my brief rant to another point of agitation! Rage Against The Machine. I missed their show in San Francisco, and been bent since. I was thinkin about Rage. Their significance in Rock N Roll history, as well as political history. To rock, they were another "Message" band, and I bought right into it. Being in that place in my life, where I wanted to rebel against everything I saw fit. Rage was a good vehicle, and resource, as well as Political Editorial. They rocked the boat during the Clinton Era, at a time when The President was villified for his Sexual dealings.

Rage was there when we needed a kick in the ass, but then they disappeared when we really needed them. When the Neo-Cons took advantage of the 911 trgedy to implement the beginning of their New World Order, there was no voice of dissent. Seems ironic that when the world most needed RATM, they were busy performing with Soundgarden guy (Chris something or other). When we really needed to stick it to the man, We were getting introduced to 50 Cent.

I'm not mad at Rage, especially since they kill it. Just a shame that at a time when they could have had the biggest impact on the USA, they were nowhere to be found...

And what's up with Zach's Hip-Hop album? Anybody care to send me a leaked version that I have never seen or heard before?

Instead of posting a Rage tune, here's a little jumper that'll bring it all together for you. Jump It.

The Chequers-Get Up Stand Up

Have a good weekend!

JUST ADDED: Like a partial answer to my prayers, the dudes at Wake Your Daughter Up were on the same wavelength. Check it. A partial answer to my query: WAKE YOUR DAUGHTER UP

Human Beat Box

2007-08-29T16:12:00.000-07:00

My apologies for the recent Reggae overload. I get into modes where I'm stuck on Reggae all month. Here's something to break it up.
The Human Beat Box is the Rawest form of Rap (along with bangin on the lunch tables). You dont need a mic, or a DJ, or a sound system. Just two motivated individuals (In some cases, just one) and some time, and the session is on.

Fat Boys-Stick'Em

Thanks to the Fat Boys, I was turned onto Hip-Hop at an early age. in 1985 there was a TV commercial for Swatch Watches (Goin WAY back) that featured The Fat Boys. I had heard Hip-Hop before that, but didn't have any faces to reference. Thus, my first Cassette purchase was the self-titled Debut from the crew originally known as The Disco 3.

Doug E. Fresh & Ricky D.-La-Di-Da-Di

I used to hear one of my homies singing this song, and I always wanted to hear it. I finally scored a copy of it on a Dr. Dre Mixtape from 86 called "The Show". When I first heard it, and realized it was a beat box tune, I was hooked!

Just-Ice-Latoya

This is another I originally picked up on one of those Rodium Swap Meet Mixes from Dr. Dre. I never got my hands on the wax though, until the 90's, and it eventually got warped. I just found another copy at our local swap meet last year, and it still gets play!

Biz Markie-One,Two

Just straight classic!

3 Minutes of Beat Box-T La Rock

If you are a Hip-Hop Dork enough to comb the net for Classic Hip-Hop Blogs, you are a Dork enough to already know this is GREG NICE on the beat box. I remember using these sounds to scratch on from the "Toasted Marshmellow Breaks" Scratch Record that came out in the mid-90's. This is just a bonus...

NOTABLE MENTIONS: Of course Rahzel!!! Search for that Tim Westwood show featuring Black Thought, RZA, & Poetic freestyling over Rahzels rundown of beats from his mouth. Real Nice! ALSO this years release of Stephen Marley's "Traffic Jam" with Jr. Gong and Buju feature a beat box over the bassline from "Answer" riddim.

Jump It!

LEAD US FADDA

2007-08-28T02:05:00.000-07:00

His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I Jah Ras Tafari

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The African Brothers: Sugar Minott, Tony Tuff and Derrick Howard.

THUNDERBALL!!! Lee Scratch Perry

2007-08-27T17:29:00.001-07:00

Just to jump on the Lee Perry Blog bandwagon...You gotta watch the whole thing!!!

STUDIO ONE

2007-08-23T15:58:00.000-07:00

Reggae selection is a constant learning process for me. Like a puzzle with the pieces that can only be found in the many, many reggae releases available. Collecting every possible tune in every Riddim set is a chore that, as maddening as it is, is very educational. Making the connection between two riddims, to one single original tune, and discovering remakes and versions through the decades has made my brain a breathing data base.
Many Riddims find their creation in the early Rocksteady phase of Reggae's history, most likely from Duke Reid's Treasure Isle camp, or Coxsone Dodd's Studio One camp. This post is a brief focus on the latter, with a couple of original versions of Legendary Riddims.

Get In The Groove (AKA I Need A Roof) Riddim
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You may recognize this Riddim from Tunes like John Holt's Up Park Camp, Barrington Levy's Shine Eye Girl, and Mighty Diamonds' I Need A Roof. You can also hear a newer version of this Riddim on Ray Darwin's People's Choice

Full Up (AKA Kutchie) Riddim
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This riddim gained international attention in the 80's with Musical Youth's Pass The Dutchie. The Riddim already had a prolific history with many versions of this Riddim being cut. Mighty Diamonds' Pass The Kutchie, Mykal Rose's Stalk Of Sensimilla, and Yellowman's Herbman Smuggling are examples that barely scratch the surface.

Darker Shade Of Black Riddim
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This Riddim reemerged this year in the form of Mr. Vegas' Lean Widit Rock Widit. You may also recognize the Riddim from Farkie Paul's Kushumpeng, Sizzla's Explain To The Almighty, and notable release on the newest version with Mitch's DJ.

R.I.P. Max Roach

2007-08-16T12:40:00.000-07:00

Those of us who love the drums, are most likely already aware of Max Roach's contribution to Jazz Drumming, as well as Jazz music in general. He lived a long 83 years, and left behind a Master Drummer's legacy.

The D.O.C. Portrait Of A Masterpiece

2007-08-16T03:47:00.000-07:00

"It's the diggy diggy DOC y'all"

When NWA was out, I was copping anything Dr. Dre related. I searched for The World Class Wreckin Crew, Eazy E & Ron-De-Vouz, C.I.A. (Feat. Ice Cube), Above The Law, even Michel'le and Trinere. But nothing could even touch The D.O.C.'s "Noone Can Do It Better". This is Dr. Dre at some of his finest. The video for "It's Funky Enough" on Yo, MTV Raps, was the first thing I had seen or heard of The D.O.C.

After that, I heard the "The D.O.C. and The Doctor" with that wicked Funkadelic sample, and had to cop it. While he was down with the pioneering Gangster Rap camp N.W.A., his raps were more on the straight ahead rap tip over big production by Dr. Dre. You cannot go wrong with this album.

The D.O.C.-Whirlwind Pyramid

The D.O.C.-Portrait Of A Masterpiece

Hard to believe that Gangster Rap's Chief Producer was so jumpy back then, compared to his later, bouncier stuff. Unfortunately The D.O.C.'s second album is his attempt to ressurect his rap career after a car accident left his throat injured, and his voiced destroyed. While The D.O.C. was originally from Dallas (See Fila Fresh Crew), his style and flavor helped to balance Hip-Hop's most notorious Gangsters. To his credit, he is also responsible for writing alot of the lyrics found on the "Straight Outta Compton" album.

Cascades and Loc's. Things done changed...

School Boy Crush: M.I.A.

2007-08-14T13:29:00.000-07:00

My gal told me she had a crush on Mos Def.

I told her I would marry M.I.A.

Her new album "Kala" should be officially available August 21st. Pure madness!

"JIMMY"

"BIRD FLU"

"BOYZ"

Pressure-Love & Affection

2007-08-13T19:54:00.000-07:00

Pressure is killing it right now. Alongside the masterful production of Don Corleon, how can he do wrong?

Serious end of the night Lover's Vibe!

Remixed Nuts

2007-08-13T16:05:00.000-07:00

My motivation behind this latest installment, is an attempt to post some tunes that NOBODY got. (Somehow Skipper will have these!)

These are some remixes I put together recently, and they get a pretty good response from those in attendance. Try em out if you like em...

MAD WORLD REMIX-Gary Jules

This tune is great without the extras. I just gave it a little head knod, trying to pump up a seriously depressing song, via "Save The World" break.

NUMBER ONE KRISPY (RMX)-Sean Paul/Kinfolk Kiashine

Alot of folks are hatin' on Krispy, but the tune works wonders on the floor for some reason (Mike Czech: "Word To The Beastie Boys"). The vocals are a little older, but it's tried & true.

HOT FUCK (RMX)-Mr. Vegas

How many damn Hot Fuck remixes can you stomach? I tried to use a instrumental that is not as popular (So far), but still hits. Enter Mic Perri's "Body Talkin'". Uptempo, and hittin. "Body Talkin'" is usually a lead in to the remix, and can stand alone against many of the uptempo, summer joints.

BADMAN PLACE (RMX)-Busy Signal Feat. Mavado

This is the companion version to the Hot Fuck Remix, upon the "Body Talkin'" Riddim. Badman Place is one of those Dancehall tunes that has an uptempo riddim, that finds itself out of context outside of Jamaica. I'm not trying to take anything away from the tunes, cuz the original is slammin in my humble opinion. Just giving it a little more bump for Yankee taste.

Just like my brethren Dash explained "I'm over remixes". They can get to be too much, and alot of them don't work. If you like these, fling em...

GUNMAN RIDDIM

2007-08-10T11:21:00.000-07:00

With the emphasis on Michael Prophet's original "Gunman", many versions of this riddim were released. Amongst these version are today's picks. One being the title track from the highly acclaimed "How The West Was Won" by the late Ranking Toyan, and the other from Rub-A-Dub's champion duo Michigan & Smiley with "Jah Army" from the album "Downpression".

The Players responsible for this wicked riddim, are The Legendary Roots Radics band produced by The Late, Legendary Henry "Junjo" Lawes, and mixed by The Legendary Scientist.

Alot of famous tunes from Junjo/Roots Radics/Scientist era are being repressed through the Jah Guidance label. These pressing are very high quality, thick pressing on 7" 45rpm discs. From the mastering, all the way down to the heavy sleeve make these 45s worth the extra dollar per record you will pay.
(If can get your hands on the CD pictured below, pick it up. "Righteous Are The Conqueror" is another Masterpiece featuring Prophet, Junjo, Roots Radics, and Scientist)

My apologies for the low quality photos, but when you come check for me, the only thing official is the tunes!

Jump It
Hugh

The Lockers

2007-08-07T02:43:00.000-07:00

This is wusup!

MC LYTE: Eyes On This

2007-08-07T01:50:00.000-07:00

I've heard that DJs that use Serato need a crutch, and we take shorts, and other types of Fuckry. I thought Serato would be easier than it is. Not the actual mixing, and DJ functions, but the general data gathering and housekeeping. I been backing up here and there the past week,and flipping through some tunes I tend to neglect in an attempt to gather new ideas. I also pulled in some CDs from my whip that I copped from the Swap Meet, and realized I hadn't loaded up this MC Lyte CD I got for 50 cents. I been bangin this CD in the whip for the past couple of months, having bought the CD with the intention of adding it to my selection.

I finally popped this into my laptop, and began trying to purge tunes so that I could just take up space with the best of the best. It seems that I only opted to purge two, and those were even questionable deletes. Each beat I came across was bangin'.

This album is from the time when samples still rode without a hefty fee/fine/reem. Notable breaks from the J.B.'s and The Meters give this joint that sound that was unmistakably Boom Bap Hip-Hop. Stripped down beats, and rough rhymes take me back to a time when Hip-Hop blew my mind.

Production credits go to a pretty solid cast of characters: Marley Marl, Grand Puba, Parrish Smith, and of course Audio Two. The joints are filled with relentless battle rhymes, topped with a couple of stories from late 80's New York City.

You should probably already be familiar with this album, if so go throw it on after you read this. If you are not familiar...

FREE AT LAST...

2007-08-05T16:48:00.000-07:00

International Reggae Star, Jah Cure, was officially released from Tower Street Adult Correctional facility in Kingston, Jamaica. After nearly 8 years of incarceration, the man born Siccature Alcock, was released a few hours early since the authorities expected large crowds of supporters. For years the world has been chanting the mantra "Free Jah Cure", and their wishes have now been granted.

Jah Cure has been more of a myth. A voice with only pictures of his face to match. He has released 3 albums while incarcerated, having had the opportunity to make use of a facility recording studio in the prison. Recent releases on the Don Corleon label, over the Drop Leaf Riddim (Longing For), and Seasons Riddim (Love Is) are considered to be his best of late. The sudden resurgence of One Drop Culture riddims has no doubt been due in part to Jah Cure's popular tunes.

The International Reggae community should be scrambling by now to put together shows for Jah Cure, and his appearances around Jamaica are guaranteed.

Jah Cure has a new album, "True Reflections", which was released in correspondence with release from prison. Although this is a collection of his last group of singles he recorded in prison, it is a must have for Reggae enthusiasts.

TURF TALK

2007-08-03T15:17:00.000-07:00

A Big Slapper for the Weekend

I recently made a voyage to the Yay Area, and brought back some Slap, including this gem. Produced by Rick Rok and starring Turf Talk. Big Up DJ Smoke-One for puttin me on to some Hyphy Bidniss.

Certified Slapper
Bring The Bass Back-Turf Talk

Pickup the album "West Coast Vaccine (The Cure)". Yadidd...uh...you know

THE METERS: Funky Pioneers

2007-08-03T11:08:00.000-07:00

The Meters: Leo Nocentelli, George Porter Jr., Zigaboo Modeliste, Art Neville,

Of course, there is plenty of literature, write ups, opinions etc... concerning The Meters. Since I am not an authority in any way on New Orleans, or The Meters, I can only fan out on these dudes. I highly suggest tracking down a copy of Wax Poetics # 13 for a good read up on The Meters. They have supplied my life with a soundtrack for walking, driving, rapping, getting lifted, romancing, and all around getting funky.

2 Video Notables: 1) I want some of what Dr. John was having, 2) Zig's drum transition, and wicked perm.

When I was 18, I played guitar in a funky instrumental band around my neighborhood, and we attempted to cover two of their tunes, just out of love. While we did them no justice whatsoever, our whole band loved these cats.

One night Leo and Ziggaboo played at a local bar, and it crushed me that I couldn't get in. We opted instead, to hang out in the alley in back of the bar, where we could hear them perfectly, and drank forties. Even though it was not the whole original line-up, they were murdering shit!

The Meters Homepage
Wax Poetics Homepage

While their best stuff is mostly instrumental (In my opinion), I've included a nasty tune called "He Bit Me" about the knight and the dragon. Enjoy.