The Passing of Nipsey Hussle

Nipsey Hussle

On March 31, 2019, the news broke of the murder of Nipsey Hussle. Fans, comedians, actors, athletes, music artists, just about everyone was posting their condolences and sadness of losing not only a rapper but a father, a son, a partner to actress Lauren London, an entrepreneur, a man who was trying to empower the community he grew up in as well as educate and help people everywhere.

I personally am not a per say fan,  I can't recite lyrics or tell you what song is play of his or the like.  I can say that I am a fan of the man himself.  I heard of him a few years ago through other people and other artists that I am a fan of and in the passing years became aware of the man who was very knowledgeable of the things he had done in his past and was now trying to help the community he grew up in as well as trying to help those growing up to not have to struggle as he had to in his youth.  I did however have his friend and artist J Stone on my radio show last year.  We talked a little about Nipsey during the interview.  I can't even imagine what he is going through right now.

I watched an interview of him and he was young talking about investing and buying real estate and things that you usually don't hear a "gang member" talking about.  He knew that all the cars and diamonds and jewelry were just things.  Every time I heard him talk about anything, it was giving knowledge and whether one person or multiple people got the message, the message was given,

I have seen multiple people on my timeline on Facebook who are effected by the loss of Nipsey Hussle and those who just can't seem to understand how they are effected because they didn't "know" him.  The only way I can explain it to them is this....through Nipsey Hussle's music people felt his spirit.  Just like with Tupac and Biggie, through music you can feel like you know that person, you can relate to that person.  Music is life....I have always said this.  Just like those of you who watch Love and Hip Hop or Real Housewives of whatever or those Kardashian....and become so invested in their lives and talking about what they do....people who are fans of Nipsey Hussle feel like they knew the man.

I hate when someone is judgmental about the way someone feels.  I seen so many people commenting negatively when all they had to do was not say anything.  Let that person grieve because that is what they are doing.  Grieving for a man, a father, an entrepreneur, an artist, a rapper, a member of his community, a business man and yes even a gang banger as he has been called.  But more importantly he gave music and lyrics to those who couldn't express how they felt or couldn't explain what they were going through.  If you as a person can't understand that, then say that.  Ask someone, hey....how can you feel so much for a man you never met or knew personally?  I mean that is if you really wanted to know.  Maybe you just wanted to be a true dickhead and think you are funny when you clearly are not.

I felt like I had to write this blog today.  I haven't written in so long.  I need to start again.  I have so much to say.  And I say things to get people to think about they opposite side of things.  Call me a devils advocate if you must.  I like to look at all sides and get people to open their minds to the bigger picture.

The world lost a really great man who will be compared to other great men.  Biggie, Tupac, Malcolm, Martin, any figure in the world who was about knowledge and empowering their people, communities and opening the eyes of the world.  I would say that Nipsey Hussle is in that class of men.

So to all my friends, fans and family of Ermias Davidson Asghedom aka Nipsey Hussle I am deeply sorry for your loss.


Yours Truly,

In The Spotlight Interviews.......

On September 2, 2017 I celebrated my 1 year on HardBody Radio doing my show In The Spotlight.   Check out the the first 3 interviews in the new building and the beginning of my 2nd year.



DaV1s7on's interview

Black$taff247 - Jay Bruno and Country Haze

TAGMG's Interview

Xavier James' Interview

Baltimore Cease Fire August 4th Through August 6th

August 4th through August 6th is the Baltimore Cease Fire.  And since the first announcement people seem to really have their "opinions" on this idea.  Well here are mine.....

When I first heard this months ago I was wondering if they were going to follow through with the idea.  See I have seen so many people in this city come up with good ideas but they have no follow through.  Mostly because good ideas need a lot of work and let's face it, most people have the attention span of a goldfish.  But as the days went on and I seen who was the "face" of the  Cease Fire I knew that she wasn't about to give up and she would keep up the motivation to keep those who were involved to keep involved.

I can't remember the first time I met Erricka Bridgeford but I remember that every time I seen her she had this beautiful smile and a hug.  So seeing that she was one of the founders of this movement I knew that it was going to have the follow through it needed.

Now as I first stated, a lot of people have given their opinions on trying to have Nobody Kill Anybody this weekend.  I was seeing a lot of negative opinions on trying to save lives.  Instead of talking down the organization and the people who are reaching out to the people in the streets and trying to at least get 72 hours with no one being killed.....maybe these people should help do something to help these kids realize there is more to life than just being in the streets.

People like to complain about things instead of trying to contribute.  I seen a lot of well its not gonna work......well what about the rest of the days of the year.......and you know it all has to start somewhere.  And it started today!!  

So far as I am writing this blog, there have been no murders.  I pray that this is a trend that continues.  So far in Baltimore we have had 209 murders. The youngest being 1 and the oldest being 97.

2017 Baltimore City Homicides - List and Map

I pray that the cease fire is truly the beginning of people cherishing life.

Please do your part in helping spread the word.

AB Rock - Aint Yours (Baltimore Ceasefire)

The Bangladesh Project ft Anonamas & Wombatt55 - Ceasefire (A #BaltimoreCeasefire Anthem)

Von Vargas Ft Various Artists - Baltimore Cease Fire

Team Kreamate - The Krate Tape 2 - The Kare Pakkage

Team Kreamate - Krate Tape Vol2

The Kare Pakkage

On February 14, 2017, Team Kreamate release their 2nd mixtape in their Krate Tape series.  This one was for the ladies.  The Kare Pakkage consists of instrumentals from Jodeci, Musiq Soulchild, Blackstreet, BBD, Bobby Brown, Total, among others. 

Definitely a mixtape that you need in your collection.  Team Kreamate has outdone themselves once again making the industry beats their own.

The Krate Tape 2 - The Kare Pakkage


Click on the link above and listen for yourself.  Stream or download but give this project a listen and see for yourself if you don't fall in love with at least one track on there.  My suggestion is the last track by Rebel "It's My Poison".  A combination of "My Prerogative" by Bobby Brown and "Poison" by BBD.  Take a listen and see what you think.

Bodymore Big Steve - I Do This **** In My Sleep

Bodymore Big Steve - I Do This **** In My Sleep

So a few days ago I received a link.  Big Steve of Bodymore Records had sent me this project to listen to and review.  And I have been listening to it every day.

I have known Big Steve for years and I have watched him grow as an artist. This project is a mixture of beats and well stories. Big Steve goes over industry beats and makes them his own. He doesn't try to do what the original artist did and doesn't talk about the same things.

The very first track is a collection of what is called Classic Shit and it truly it.  Parts of verses from some of the best songs the Big Steve has had over the past few years.

The tracks on this project are such a great mixture.  The songs that are really personal and about love and his girls....he has 3 of the most beautiful little girls.....are the ones that I really feel to my soul.  His pain of loving and losing is like him opening up himself and it is therapy for him and the listener.

He even as a track called Spoken Word that is dedicated to his daughter Mira.  Something really different for an artist to put on a mixtape.  Almost brought me to tears the first time I heard it and even the 5th time I listened to it.

Big Steve has Lil Black from 92Q hosting the mixtape.

He even sings a little on the songs with the help of autotune.

I love seeing the growth in this young man over the years.  This project really shows the versatility of Big Steve as an artist and the growth as a man and father.  

He will be dropping this at midnight tonight online and delivering hard copies tomorrow for FREE.  According to his post he made this morning.

Grab this project as soon as it comes out.  You will be playing this from beginning to end and then repeat.

Bodymore Big Steve Facebook Page

Upcoming Events......

On October 27th Beanie Sigel will be at Gentlemens 10 2135 Edmondson Ave Baltimore, MD.  Admission is $20 VIP is $50.  This is also the Mixtape Release Party for $pence "The TurnUp King".  The flyer is below.  Check it out and go support local artists, local businesses.  Yes my logo is on the flyer as well.  I'm hoping I will be well enough to attend!  

The very next night Freeway and Peedi Crakk will be at the Downtown Cultural Center 401 N Howard St. Baltimore, Md.  Support the local artists and local businesses.

Team Kreamate will be performing as well.  You don't want to miss their performance.  Definitely a must see.  

Taz Spitta - Subject Matters

Taz Spitta - Subject Matter

 

I haven't done a written review in a while but when I listened to this project I knew that I needed to be vocal about it. 

Anyone who knows me knows that I am I listener.  I listen to lyrics, the flow, the beat and voices.  All of that has to peak my interest.  And when I downloaded this mixtape off of Audiomack..... here is the link  Taz Spitta - Subject Matter and you can get it on Datpiff Taz Spitta - Subject Matter  I really had no idea what I was about to hear. 

I had seen the name Taz Spitta on flyers and apparently even been at events before but it wasn't until recently that I really took the time to really listen.  Its so hard to pay attention to lyrics while artists are performing but a few months ago something seemed to tap me on my shoulder and said hey pay attention to this artist.  So I started to pay attention when I would see Taz Spitta perform.

Performance wise he is very engaging.  He interacts with the crowd.  It doesn't seem to matter if the event is packed or if there are 10 people, he gives it his all as if he is performing at the Arena.  The stage presence is on point.  Very important to me as a spectator and supporter. 

The title is "Subject Matter" and that is something that every song has.  I love songs that tell stories.  There is a concept and the artist stays with that concept.  He isn't just rhyming words. 

As I listened to this project, I noticed that the beats were varied, this to me shows the artist's ability to be versatile! Not everyone can ride any beat that is given to them.  An example is the song  "More" which is a very fast tempo song.  Taz Spitta flows with the beat with ease. 

Another thing......Taz Spitta sings also on the tracks.  And does it well.  

This is a well rounded artist who gives you a quality project.  If you listen to it, I guarantee there will be at least one track that will be your favorite.  Mine is "Right Now".....and "More"...... "Mastermind".....yeah there are a few.  

Click one of the links and download it and take a listen.  Taz Spitta <<<<< Go LIKE his page if you are feeling his music!

The Mixtape That You Need In Your Collection......Team Kreamate The Krate Tape Vol 1

Definition of mixtape from Websters Dictionary:

  a compilation of songs recorded (as onto a cassette tape or a CD) from various sources

According to Wikipedia the most common early mix tapes were bootleg 8 track tapes that were sold at flea markets and truck stops in the late 1960s through the early 1980s, with names like "Super 73", "Country Chart Toppers" or "Top Pops 1977".

The Urban Dictionary gives us the most commonly used definition of mixtape with it saying it is underground cd's, etc. than usually contain freestyles/remixes/instrumentals or real songs before they hit mainstream (minus the dj yelling).

I gave you all that knowledge because this project from Team Kreamate is an awesome mixtape......THE KRATE TAPE Vol 1.  They took hop beats like Big Pun's "It's So Hard", Wu Tang's  "C.R.E.A.M.",  DMX's "What These Bitches Want", Beanie Sigel's "Feel It In The Air:......well you see where I'm going with this and gave it their personal touch.  A beat can make a song.  Most of the music that is "popular" now is only on the Billboard Charts because of the beat.  Most people stopped listening to lyrics a while ago.  Not me.  Lyrics to me make a good....a great song.

I have written about Team Kreamate before.  These guys are lyrical.  They make great songs.  Ones that will stick with you.  Hooks that you will find yourself flowing along with the song.  Projects that you will listen to from the first track to the last track. This one is no different.

With DJ Myzter Hurd hosting the mixtape, without all the yelling and talking over top of the music every 5 seconds or him just shouting himself out, it feels like back when mixtape first came on the scene.  You remember???  A cd with the beats of music that was playing on the radio and the rapper/artist trying to make the beat their own.  That way when you the listener heard the original beat you would spit the mixtape lyrics.  No throw away bars.  Or garbage bars.  Some people will make a mixtape and not really give it their all because they can't technically sell the cd because these aren't their beats.  Team Kreamate will never put out a garbage bar.  Well I have never heard one from them so I can't see it ever happening.

But this mixtape will make you feel like you did when hip hop had heart and soul.  The beats will put you in that mind set of the 90's, early 2000's but then when you hear the bars you will be like oh shit real hip hop is alive and well in these 6 guys.  Yes, 6!!!!  Not only do you have Savage Da Beast, Bones From Da Park, Flint Da Monster, Rebel and Dime Poe but they have Big Dro on it as well.

This is a mixtape that you need in your collection of go to music.  You know when you are in one of those moods and you need to just zone out.  This is the one right here.  You can drive to it, clean your house to it, cook in the kitchen to it.

So go to any of the links below and download it, give it a listen, share it with your Facebook friends, IG followers, and Twitter followers.  You will not be disappointed!!!!

Audiomack - http://www.audiomack.com/…/krate-tape-vol1-hosted-by-dj-myz…
Spinrilla - https://spinrilla.com/…/team-kreamate-krate-tape-vol-1-host…
DatPiff - http://piff.me/b9e949e
SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/team…/…/krate-tape-vol-1-hosted-by-dj
(More Links Coming Soon)

Visit: www.teamkreamate.com
Follow Us:
Instagram @team_kreamate
Twitter @team_kreamate
Facebook Team Kreamate

For Booking Email: teamkreamate2013@gmail.com

Baltimore Paparazzi

#BeatzByHurd - DJ Myzter Hurd

So the other day I get a message asking if I could check out a cd.  Of course I said sure, DJ Myzter Hurd is a friend and I have heard a couple of these tracks already and couldn't wait to hear the whole project.

Now one thing I already know about Hurd is that he is like me....he like lyrics on a hard beat.  So I already knew the project was going to be above the norm.

14 tracks....only 3 artists I'm not familiar with and Hurd selected the artist to go on each of the tracks that he produced.  So in case you haven't put things together DJ Myzter Hurd is a dj, a producer and an emcee.

The first thought as I played the project was that feeling I use to get in the 90's and early 2000's.  The beat I can bop to and the lyrics that paint the pictures in my head like I can see the words in video form.  And the fact that he hand picked the emcee to "display their vocal talent on these original tracks" made it work even better.  Ever listen to a song and think that the artist and the beat just do go well together?  You won't get that with this project.

Click here to grab #BeatzByHurd or to listen


I can't say which track is my favorite because I like this whole project.

Number 10 - Myzter Hurd makes me think about LL Cool J.  And the beat had me rocking while listening.

I suggest that you who is reading this go check out the link and at least give it a listen.  He has it listed for $5 and its worth so much more.

So go click on the link   #BeatzByHurd and take a listen and judge for yourself.  This is one of those projects that with have you saying now this is what hip hop sounds like.

Baltimore Paparazzi

Team Kreamate's Beautiful Ashes Release Pary

On February 12th I had the honor of witnessing greatness on stage!  A little too much??  LOL  No seriously, Team Kreamate released a project called Beautiful Ashes which was mainly a Bones FromDa Park and Savage Da Beast project with features from the other 3 members of the team..... Flint Da Monster Rebel and Dime Poe. I wrote about it in a previous blog go check it out!

Team Kreamte - Beautiful Ashes

                                             

I have written about these guys before and I support them like they are related.  Well they are family but I liked their music and talent way before I even really knew them.  Each artist is a talent and putting them all together is like a chemistry experiment that went fabulously well.  Ground breaking results....a miracle.....answers to life's questions.  Ok I know that was a bit too much!  LOL  But you kinda get the idea. 

This performance was no different!  With each performance and the more they go outside of the box with the music the more they progress and the better they get!  Their music is diverse and it reaches a bigger audience and that means more sales of music and more people coming out to see you and more people buying your t-shirts.  And isn't that what artists are suppose to do......get more fans and supporters?? 

The night comprised of a number of other artists.  Artists like Symantax who doesn't even realize I was introduced to her music when I first came on the scene in 2008.  She is a phenomenal emcee.  

Spence who also performed and is The Turn Up King as he states.  Which every performance he does just that.  

My man Jase performed and I hadn't seen him on stage in a while so it was great to get to see and hear him.  

The one artist that surprised a lot of people was Yung Hustle Hard.  A 12 yr old young man who has been around this music scene since probably birth!  His father is Block Hugga from 1st Family/Loud Boyz Ent.  Yung Hustle Hard and his brother Young Hugga took the stage and no one could believe how young they really were.  

The other artists I didn't know them as well.  I have seen a couple of them at other events but everyone came out to show out and did just that!!

It was an awesome night of music and so much support for the local music scene.  It felt like when I first started going to shows in 2008.  

Congratulations on your successful event and an awesome project.

Here are the links for the pictures from that night

Photo Album 1

Photo Album 2

Photo Album 3

Photo Album 4

Listen to Beautiful Ashes

Yung Hustle Hard ft. Damond Blue "Life of The Party"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Zakiyyah Jobes

Phone: 443-622-6855

Email: loudboyzmuzicgroup@gmail.com

Baltimore Md. — January 23^rd 2015

Yung Hustle Hard Feat. Damond Blue “Life Of The Party”

On January 23^rd 2015, Loud Boyz Muzic Group released the highly anticipated debut video “Life Of The Party” from the 12 year old phenomenon Azhae Jobes aka “Yung Hustle Hard” featuring the musically acclaimed “Damond Blue.” “Life of the Party” was shot and edited by the national accredited videographer “Tha Profitt” and is the first single off of “Yung Hustle Hard’s” upcoming 2015 CD Release.

“Yung Hustle Hard” may be the youngest artist of Loud Boyz Muzic Group but he can more than hold his own weight.  Beginning his musical journey at the age of 10, this young artist’s goal is to solely make a name for himself based off of his lyrical ability and not his age. Whenever he steps on stage or into the recording booth he commands the attention of his audience and has left crowds amazed by his natural raw talent and true ambition.

Please support, share and host his latest video project and check out “Life Of The Party” at

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prySWtUUtoY&feature=youtu.be

Follow “Yung Hustle Hard” on Social Media @ FB @Yung Hustle Hard | IG @Yung Hustle Hard | Twitter @Yung Hustle Hard and YouTube_ Yung Hustle Hard.

For more information:

Zakiyyah Jobes

443-622-6855

loudboyzmuzicgroup@gmail.com

- END –

Team Kreamate - Beautiful Ashes

Team Kreamate - Beautiful Ashes

Team Kreamate, which is comprised of Savage Da Beast, Bones From Da Park, Flint Da Monster, Dime Poe and Rebel, released a project called Beautiful Ashes today.  Now I was given an advance copy to listen to and to give my thoughts on the project is primarily Bones and Savage but all members are on the project.

My first thought as I listened to the songs individually was that once again the mixture of the beats with the lyrics had been taken to another level,  In other words, progression.  And since I have known this group that is all I have seen.  They keep pushing to make the next song better than the last, to make the last project better than the last.  Another thing I noticed as I listened to the project was the laid back feel of the cd.......almost an R&B feel to it.

1.  Beautiful Ashes(Intro) - Definitely an intro...Bones and Savage give you a glimpse of what's about to come on the project as well as the future of Team Kreamate!  When I listen to this song I see a Phoenix flying through fire.  Yes I'm very visual when it comes to music.

2.  Respekt Dat - I seen the guys perform this on stage,  This song is one that you can just rock too!  The beat isn't one that gets you all hyped but listen to the lyrics.....anyone who knows me I listen to words....the lyrics let you know that Savage and Bones have been working to gain respect in the scene and you are going to give them the respect they deserve.

3.  Muuzik ft Rebel - Now this track is a little more upbeat...meaning it will make you move a little more than the sitting and vibing like the other tracks.  Rebel on this track will make you go who is this.

4.  Follow The Crowd ft Rebel - This track is just so laid back and got that old back in the day R&B feel to it.  The message is so great.  Follow what you want to do and don't just follow behind what everyone else is doing.  Savage, Rebel and Bones give you a look at their life...past, present and future.

5.  I'ma Get It - If you just sit and close your eyes and listen you can feel the emotions that went into writing this song.  Told you I'm a visual person with lyrics!

6.  Good Life ft Mr. Supe - Now this track had me moving in my seat.  Almost dancing to be honest!  Just a good feeling song.

7.  Over Here - OK Savage singing on the track!  This is one of those tracks that the video would be x-rated!  LOL  So you know it is the one the ladies would listen to and be instant groupies!  

8.  H3ated - This is exactly what the name says.....heated!!  Savage lets out some aggression on his beat!

9.  Krakk - Ft Flint - This track is more upbeat and will have you hyped.  The fast flows will have you spinning and go how the hell did they spit all those words....I got to start this one over again!

10.  Kobain Interlude - Dime Poe!!!!  Every time I have heard Dime Poe on a track I am always surprised at the word play.  I don't know why after all this time of knowing him but he just flows so well and the words just seem to melt out to your ears.

11. BarLordz - Oh my goodness......from the production of Street Scott to the lyrics of Savage and Bones......this is one of the hardest tracks.  BarLordz is exactly what they are.

12.  Bxtch ft Flint -  Love this one!!  Love the hook!!  I can think of a few people that I could direct this track to!  LOL  This track is pretty self-explanatory!

13.  Foreal - This is another track that straight forward but the beat makes it laid back.

14.  Success - Pretty much the name of this one says it all!  Dreaming about success and going to make those dreams come true while being true to self!!

15. Bonus Track - The Kombo Konvo Pt 1. -  I love a track where the 2 artists are going back and forth.....like a conversation.  Dime Poe and Savage did a good job with the back and forth.  The is the bonus but I think it is just a prequel to the next project!!!


So yeah there you have my thoughts on this project!  I have been blessed to see the growth and progression of these young men!  I was introduced to Savage's music in 2007 and then met Bones, Flint, Poe and Rebel through Pit Fights Battle League which is rap battles.  Their coming together was nothing more than fire.  Each individual can hold their own on a song but the mixture and chemistry of them as a team is awesome.

I really like this cd!  I listened to it like 4 times today to be honest!  As I said these are my thoughts and opinions on how I felt about the songs. Maybe you will listen and hear something different or feel something different!  But listen at least to the project.

Great job fellas!!  From the choice of music to the lyrics to the promotion to the execution!

Beautiful Ashes  can be listened to at this link.

February 12th at The Hott Spott 830 Guildford Ave Team Kreamte is having a release party for this project.  Come out and support.

Profitt Productions Joell Ortiz Cypher Event.....

I didn't get to say much about the show last night!  I was too tired and hurting.  Jeff Tha Profitt Kowalewski awesome event as always.  Ogun Bmorehero is by far the best host that I have seen at an event.  The place was packed early.  I guess it takes a name like Joell Ortiz to be headlining the show for people to actually come out and on time.

The acts were a range of talent and styles.  From the lone artist on stage to having 20 people behind the artists and none of those 20 know the lyrics to the songs...they just want to be seen I guess!  I never will understand that.

It was a very long night I will say.  I don't even know how many acts there were until the cypher began.  But there were a lot!  It was good because those acts had supporters and the came out in full force.

The cypher was kinda awesome.  A few names I know and more that I didn't!!  And for these artists to be able to show their talent to someone of Joelle Ortiz's caliber had to be an awesome thing.  This guy was so down to Earth and humble.  He was just a pleasure to see perform and to hear speak to the local artists.

The main talk that I heard is that Shy Lady Heroin killed the cypher.  And although there are personal issues, I will never take away from her abilities or talent.  Some may say that it was because she was the only female in the cypher and you could probably argue that but you can't argue her talent.

I left before anything was judged or whatever the case was with the event.  I was tired and my body was hurting and ready to give up. I'm really getting too old to be out on my feet for hours taking pictures! One of the main reasons I have slowed down and don't go to many shows......my health just won't let me.

If you ever see Profitt Productions on a flyer or mentioned or Profnation, please be sure to check out the event!  I can guarantee you will not be disappointed.

Pictures from the event will be posted in the next day or so!  I have a couple other events to go through first.  But check out Baltimore Paparazzi and hit LIKE.  Once I post them, they will pop up on your newsfeed.  Also check out Baltimore Paparazzi website for other events, videos of local artists and a range of other things!

Shows, Events and Professionalism

I came into the music scene here in Baltimore as a fan.  Slowly I became much more.  I don't know how it happened but the next thing I knew I was The Baltimore Paparazzi....the one who took all the pictures of all the artists at all the shows and even did a recap on my MySpace and Facebook pages.

I became known more than a lot of the artists who claimed that everyone knew them in the city.  All because of my pictures.

Last year I decided to throw shows so that local artists would have a platform to be able to perform.  There are quite a few artists/rappers who had never been on a stage and my event was their first.  And then there were some who have been on stage numerous times and didn't think they were too big to perform at The 5 Seasons.

Now the title says Professionalism and that's on purpose.  I try to be as professional as I can and yes sometimes I slip just like everyone else but usually it is because someone pulls me out of character.

My events are 12 artists, each with 12 mins on stage.  I require that the artists pay a $25 deposit on 15 tickets and then they only owe $50 the night of the show!  So that's $75.  They sell the tickets for $10.  So that is $150.  Minus the $75 and the artist made $75 on selling their tickets!

Some people might not agree with selling tickets but to me if they don't sell them, nine times out of ten the artists will be only performing in front of other artists who all paid for a slot.  That might be fine for some but not for me!  I want people in the building and I have a staff to pay as well.  DJ, Host, Door person and Production not to mention the venue!

Then there is the being on time that really gets to me.  If I say I need the artists there at a certain time it is so we can get the show started and not be rushing to be done with the show.  But it seems like most want to come late and think they are going to go on stage as soon as they get there!  SMH

Seems like most artists are wanting to be on the big stages and get big shows but can't even be professional at the entry level.  I have seen this more so in the past couple of years.  I understand that no one is stepping up and mentoring these artists/rappers and maybe that's what needs to be done.  Most get a little buzz and then get an ego.  If I put your name on a flyer, how many people are truly coming?  The test has been done time and time again......and its not in their favor.

I am going to continue to try and keep my show going for those who truly love what they do and to get more exposure.  It may just be The 5 Seasons......well The Hott Spott and it maybe just a little venue but it is my way of helping this culture stay alive!!!!

June 8, 2005 Rest In Peace Rodney Russell Privette

In December 2003, a man and I connected on Black Planet.  We talked through there and eventually went to Yahoo Messenger.  Then to phone calls.  I had just gone through a bad break-up.  After 3 and a half years the man I was going to marry up and married someone else 8 months after I moved to Baltimore.  Talk about feeling foolish.

I gave Rodney a had way to go.  He wanted to spend time with me and I kept pushing him to the side.  He would say I will pay for everything...food, gas, movies....whatever you want to do!  I would just say I couldn't.  I don't bring men around my children who isn't going to be apart of their life and when I didn't have them on the weekend I was out at Bohagers with my friends.  Living life!!

One day I got a message form Rodney that said he had been in the hospital and he was on his way back and he would let me know everything when he got back home.  When he called me it wasn't anything I expected.  He had been at work one day.  He delivered hardwood floors.  He felt weak and tired so he sat in the truck.  Later on that night he was at his neighbor's house and wasn't feeling well again.  They called the ambulance and he then found out his heart was enlarged.  I then stopped and said I need to give this man a chance at least.

From that day forward I spent my days loving him.  We thought we were going to have more time together.  We planned on getting married on his birthday day....September 19th so he could remember our anniversary....we talked about having another child because he didn't have any of his own....we talked about how he wanted us all to move to Suitland to be near his family.

He spent a month and a half in Johns Hopkins.  I was there, at work, college and trying to raise my kids.  I finally had to quit my job.  It was too hard.  Especially not knowing how much time I had left with him.

On June 6, 2005, Rodney and I exchanged vows in front of the hospital chaplin and she prayed with us. She said that in God's eyes we were married and a piece of paper wasn't going to change that.  They wouldn't issue a marriage certificate because Rodney was on Morphine by this time.

On June 8, 2005, I went to the hospital at 4 pm.  I opened the door and seen my father in law.  I know something had happened or was about to happen.  The doctors took him off all of the medicines that were keeping him alive and we were going to let Rodney go. Neither Mr. William or I truly wanted this but there was nothing else the doctors could do.  The damage was too severe and he was no longer a candidate for a transplant.  He stopped taking his medicines and gave up months before and that's why we were sitting in the hospital.

I had planned on leaving the hospital at around 8pm if nothing happened and go be with the kids.  At  7:55pm they pronounced him dead.  I was holding his hand and talking to him while he slipped away.  I told him that it was ok to go.  We all were going to be ok.  I just didn't want him to suffer and be in pain anymore.  I told him that I loved him and the kids loved him and to just go ahead and go.  I was in his face when he took his last breath.  He never woke up to talk to his dad and the last words he said to me were the night before as I was leaving.  He said tell the kids I love them and I love you.

9 years later and it still hurts.  I have tried to move on in my love life with no luck.  I have dated over the years and had friends but they always seem to want to play games or be so untruthful.  I never compare anyone to Rodney because he was one of a kind to say the least.  I have only seen one man that even remind me of him.  I think there is a reason for that!  I feel him with me and even hear his voice at times.  I know he is watching over me and the kids.

This year has been extremely hard.  With my daughter about to give birth to my grandson in a matter of weeks and Rodney isn't here, Kashmir is sad about that.  And then the untimely passing of a man who was and still is an impact on the city....Derrick Jones aka Yo Slick  aka OOH......its just been even more emotional especially since he and Rodney were the same at when they passed!

So please I beg you all that if you love someone let them know!  Tell them every day that you have with them!!!  You never know how long you have with them!!

A Sad Day In Baltimore........

I can't tell you when we were introduced.....I really don't think there was I hi my name is Lisa or a hi my name is OOH.  I can however tell you the first time I seen him.

I had gone to a cd release party at the 13th Floor at the Belvedere.  I had just started showing my face on the music scene and barely knew anyone.  So this group got on stage and started performing.  I was taking pictures....like always because I didn't know people and I wanted to remember the shows.  The guy on the mic said something about being from Poplar Grove!  Oh ok....that's where I live!  Then he raised his shirt and I took pictures of his stomach.  Never knew who he or the group was but I really didn't know but a handful of people at that time.

The next memory I have is when I was on stage at the Baltimore Crown Awards.  I was accepting an award....not sure what it was for...might have been Photographer of the Year or Contribution Award....anyway, I was saying that most of the people in there might not know me and I take pictures of the local hip hop shows, ect.  OOH yells you took pictures of my stomach and said it a couple more times.  It made me smile and laugh and honored that he would speak up like that!  Almost giving me validity in the music scene.

In February, I had my event and The Love Peace Project wanted to be apart of it and I said sure. Love having something different at the event!  Changa then told me that Brown F.I.S.H. was going to be apart of it too!  I was so excited!  By now I knew who Jahiti and OOH were and held conversations and loved being in their presence.  OOH called me and we had a long talk about the event and all the details that he wasn't sure about.  So we made a deal that he would host and I was so excited!!!  The show went till after 2am.  LOL  Larry was trying to tell me to wrap it up.  Solomon was more understanding.  And OOH was his usual smiling and awesome self!

Last night I knew that something had happened to OOH but was hoping that it was nothing serious and we would be seeing him posting about his Save A Dope Boy campaign or something about saving our youth but instead I got a phone call a little after 9pm that had me stunned, my heart hurting, my mind went blank, and tears were streaming.

OOH.....Derrick Jones......Yo Slick.....was gone.

My first thoughts were of his wife, child and family.  I know that feeling.  I have been through it.  No words can comfort.  No words can make you feeling any better!  But I know that with time those words mean a whole lot to them.

This man....this one man was trying to make a difference in the city.  He had an idea and a plan and he made it happen.  He was supported by so many that he supported.

June 3, 2014 we lost a man who not only was a husband, a father, a son, a brother, a uncle....we lost a phenomenal artist, innovator, advocate, legend and most of all a hero.

#SAVEADOPEBOY 

 

Puzzle Pieces

She wanted him so bad.  She had missed him so much over the years.  But she wasn't about to get her feelings mixed up again.  She couldn't let herself feel so much for him and he wasn't able to do the same for her.  It wasn't that he wouldn't.....he just couldn't.  Life can be so complicated.  But here he was holding her, kissing her, telling her how he felt and all she could do was smile and not say anything. She was too afraid to say anything because what if he really didn't mean it.  What if it was just the alcohol talking.  What if he was going to regret it the next day.

All she did know was that looking at him smile made her melt.  Feeling his lips on hers felt like fire was consuming her. The touch of his hands sent chills throughout her body.  She had missed him more than even she had realized.  The words I love you came from his mouth and as much as she wanted to say them back, her head was screaming no!  She did love him.  She had loved him.  No matter what happened in the past few years, she couldn't stay mad or upset with him.  She loved his spirit, his soul....she loved him.

Laying in his arms it felt like this is where she was suppose to be.  Like 2 pieces of a puzzle that fit perfectly in a puzzle that they didn't belong to.  Her head laid on his shoulder, listening to him breathe as he dozed off.  She stared at his face thinking that it was a dream and not wanting to wake up if it was one.  She laid there thinking this was so wonderful.  And then reality started setting in.  In a few hours, he would be gone.  On his way back home.  She would once again wonder when she would see him again.  Wondering when he would call.  Wondering when she would feel his touch.  And this is why she couldn't let herself fall for him again.

Who is Team Kreamate?

    

Team Kreamate consist of now 5 individual artists who all have made their own way and name. Whether it was through their music or battling in The Pit Fights Battle League, Team Kreamate is making noise.

The group consists of Savage Da Beast  Bones From Da Park  Flint Da Monster  Dime Poe  Rebel  and Hazzy.  With Hazzy being the newest member to be added.

They released a 5 track "gift" for their fans called The Gift in December followed by their project called  Welcome To The Inferno in January.

Check out their music and their videos.  You can check them out by clicking on their names. Hard copies of Welcome To The Inferno are now available as well.

Liezel's Life

The realization of a relationship being over doesn't come all at once.  It takes time to sink in and be able to understand that the person you put your trust, love and heart into is no longer in your life.  When the relationship first ends, there are a lot of why’s and how come’s.  There is crying and pain and the feeling of never being in love again.  There is the hating of the person and wanting them to be hurt but then again you don’t.  A break up is full of emotions like a roller coaster ride.
She was in the stage that she has cried, screamed, yelled and never wanting to be in another relationship again.  She had asked all the questions of herself and came up with no logical answers.  Now she was going to move on to the next chapter of her life.  In order to do that, she needed to get out of this depression she was in and get out with her friends.
This is what Liezel needed.  Just to walk around in the sunshine and breathe in the air and trying to get her mind clear of all the nonsense that has occurred in the past few weeks.  How is it that in a matter of weeks she has gone from being happy and engaged to unhappy and calling off a wedding?  That is a lot to take in all at once.  But what is done is done and there is no going back.  Rainer’s constant calls and persistent voicemails were irritating enough and then came the apology notes and flowers and plants.  Those things she gave to the secretaries and other personnel in the office.  She just wasn't’t ready to discuss the situation with him and still wasn't trying to hear anything he had to say.  She had seen it for herself and there was nothing more to be told.  What was he going to say, I’m sorry I lied to you; I’m sorry I cheated on you with my ex-girlfriend?  She just isn’t ready for the apology part of the closure just yet.
It was such a beautiful day and she was smiling for the first time in a long time.  Maybe the hurt was dissipating quicker than she had anticipated.  Liezel had been cooped up in the house since the night she had seen for her own eyes that Rainer had lied to her and was on a date with his ex-girlfriend Kenya.  That was the night her life did a complete and total flip.  Since that night, she had been on a leave from the firm and had basically kept everyone at arm’s length until she just couldn’t take being in the house anymore.  Today she decided to take a walk along the water and enjoy the day and make herself get out into the world.  She even called her best friend Nya to join her for lunch.  It was time to move along with life.
As she was watching a group of children feeding the seagulls, her phone rang.  Thinking that it was Rainer was again, she looked at the screen to see who it was.  No this time it was Nya so she answered it.
“Ok, where are you?” asked the voice on the other end.
“I am right here by Phillip’s waiting for you.” Liezel said as she still was watching the children feeding the seagulls.
“Oh ok I see you now!  Here I come across the street.”  Nya said and then hung the phone up.
Nya walked up to Liezel and gave her one of those I’m so sorry hugs.  It was so long and tight that you would have thought Nya was saying her final goodbyes.  As they walked to the restaurant, the questions started coming from Nya.  The where have you been, are you ok, do we have to go beat someone up questions.
Liezel started laughing at her friend’s obvious protectiveness.  “No we don’t have to get all ghetto on anybody.  I’m fine.  I really am.  I just needed to think about things and then work through them on my own without all the distractions of my friends wanting to try to make me feel better.”
“I’m just saying girl, we can go and get hood with her and his two timing self.”  Nya was always the one who no matter what her education no matter how many degrees were on her office wall; she was the one who would revert back to her hood mentality.
Liezel started laughing.  As they sat down, Nya wanted to know all the details.  She hadn’t talked to Liezel since all of this started.  She got an email letting her know that she was ok but that was all.  So she wanted to know all the juicy details.  Liezel started off the tale on the night the whole situation happened.
Liezel told Nya that it was the night that she had cancelled on their plans to go an album release party that one of Nya’s clients had told her about.  Liezel cancelled because of a problem at the firm with the ad that was to be released the next day and of course Liezel was the only one to fix it.  Well to fix it properly and on time.  As she was working she decided to call Rainer and see if he wanted to bring her a late dinner and they could at least spend a minute or two together over dinner at the office.
“So I called him and asked him if he wanted to share a late dinner with me at the office and he was like I would love to sweetie but I have a late meeting with a client.  So I said ok, and told him to call me later.  That was nothing unusual about him having late meetings.  I mean I have gone with him on a few occasions.”  Liezel said this while looking at the menu trying not to notice that Nya was so engaged by the story she hadn’t even looked at the menu.
“Well at around 10 I started to get hungry so I called that little restaurant a few blocks from the ad agency, you know the one we go to sometimes for lunch.  Oh what is the name of that place?  It’s right on the tip of my tongue.”  Liezel had eaten there numerous times and called in and now she couldn’t even think of the restaurant’s name.
Nya spoke so loudly it startled Liezel.  “Ohhhhhh Chez La Rue.”  Liezel started laughing at how excited Nya was about this tale.  “Come on Liezel you are dragging this out on purpose.”
“Girl, get a grip.”  Liezel said trying not to laugh so loud at her friend.  “You will get all the details.”  So Liezel continued with the story.  “So I was going to ask Charles or Jamal, you know the security guards, if one of them wouldn’t mind going and getting the order but I needed a little break.  I was giving myself a headache.  So I decided to walk to the restaurant and get my order.  As I came up the street, I seen Rainer’s car.  Maybe his meeting was here or maybe he was getting dinner to surprise me.”
At this time, the waiter walked over and asked if we were ready to order.  Nya acted as if she was annoyed.  So Liezel ordered her food and Nya just told the waiter yeah make it two.  She wanted to get back to the story.
Liezel laughed at her friend and continued her tale.  “So I’m all happy to see him and then I see him grab the hand of the woman he was walking with and kiss it.  I almost fell over myself.  I could not believe that he had just done that and then I see whose hand he was kissing.”  Liezel took a sip of her wine.
“Who?”  Nya almost screamed she was so loud.
Liezel almost spit her wine out from laughing at her friend.  “Ok, Nya, damn calm down.”  She was on the edge of her chair now.  “It was Kenya.”
“Are you serious?  No you are just bullshiting me now.”  Nya said.  The ghettoness was coming out of her even more.
“Nah I’m serious!  It was Kenya.”  Liezel said as she grabbed a roll from the basket.
“Oh my God.  He has got to be fucking crazy.  Did you whip her ass?  Did you whip his ass?”  Now Nya was in her ready to kick ass and think about things later mode.  That used to get them in trouble when they are younger and out at the club.
Liezel started laughing, almost choking on the roll she had taken a bite of.  “No Nya, I didn't do that.  Am I sitting in jail right now?”  Liezel started laughing.  “No I walked up to them as they were standing in line to go into Tio Pepe’s and took my engagement ring off and handed it to him.  The look on their faces was priceless.  I wish I had a camera to record it all but all I did was hand him the ring and said, Goodbye.  I heard him calling my name as I walked back up the street but what could he have said Nya?  There was nothing to be said.”  Liezel was looking around the restaurant trying not to look Nya in the eyes because she knew that she would start to cry.
“Oh the hell with that bullshit.”  Nya was hyped up now.  “Oh hell no.  All you said was goodbye?  I would have been cussing his ass out and beating the hell out of someone.  Girl now I see why you didn’t call me that night.  I would have been in the restaurant making a big ass scene.”
Liezel let out a big laugh.  Covering her mouth as all the people turned to see what was going on.  “Nya, you would be in jail.  You would have caused such a scene; the police would still be trying to calm you down.  That is the exact reason I didn't call you.”
About that time, something caught Liezel’s eye.  As she turned to see what it was, she seen it was the most beautiful man she had ever seen.  She tried to look away but she just couldn't.  As he walked passed, he and Liezel caught each other’s eye.  He gave her a little smile and Liezel blushed, smiled and turned away.
“What was that?”  Nya said grinning like the Cheshire cat in Alice in Wonderland.
“What was what?”  Liezel was trying not to smile or admit that she was caught.
“I seen that little smile and girl you are as red as fire.  You know you are white as hell and I can see you blushing.”  Nya was smiling even harder.

TO BE CONTINUED>>>>>>>>>>>