THE OFFICIAL POST

TO THE BEATMAKERS OUT THERE

2011-08-14T03:05:00.000-07:00

You have no idea how many calls I get. You have no idea how many emails I get. You would think that the majority of them would be about tracks or representation. You’d think all of it was about some advice about the business…

…Ok most of it is just that. Those calls can take up my entire day but that’s the business I’m in. No, the calls & emails that annoy me are the “you gotta’ get this new gear” calls. It never fails, every time some soft or hardware company invents or updates some seemingly, absolutely necessary piece of gear, everybody wants to jump on it.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m a “stone cold business man”, so I understand about selling your product to the public or in our case, to the music makers community, but damn, does everybody have to get the same thing. There are so many ways now to make a beat it’s ridiculous, and all of them produce industry standard material, but let’s get some variety in there. I know a producer/rapper/engineer who is a beast with his Sonar gear. I know a few who have shocked even me with their pushing of the FL Studio software. There are people out there who swear that The Machine is the second coming and some even hate on anything but the Akai MPC.

I remember years after my “tank” days carrying this big black “soft case” everywhere, and in it was an Ensoniq ASR-10. That was my baby. You literally had to make your own drum kits and sounds using the sampler feature. I play the piano (yes people still do that), so the keyboard was a dream tool for me. Cat’s used to laugh when they saw me comin’ with that ol’ monster. They laughed until I pressed play. The look on their faces was priceless. How in the hell did he get that beat from that old-ass machine? They looked at me like I was alien, and could not believe their ears.

See, it’s not the gear. It’s the person working the gear. With nothing but a then, fifteen year old piece of gear I was killin’ everything out there. Everybody would get the new this or the new that and I would make them wish they hadn’t wasted the money. In the past few years, I’ve been able to develop a sound and style with nothing more than a Mac and a midi controller.

What I think inspires some people to get everything that comes out is what I call “sound hogging”. Every time a new tech drops it’s supposed to have the baddest new sounds, but if you’ve been at this as long as I have you get to understand that most of the “so-called” new sounds are re-hashing of old sounds from some old gear that maybe a lot of kids starting out have never heard. Look, if you’ve got it like that and can afford to buy, buy, buy every new music tech, then more power to ya’. That, however, does not make you a great producer. When you can walk into a studio and seemingly pull greatness out of thin air, when you can squeeze one last drop of dopeness out of a piece of vintage gear, or when you can use every piece of new gear that comes out but, a part of you still shines through, then you’re on your way to greatness. When the label is willing to give you an assignment and then step back & take a hands-off approach with you, because they trust you’ll give them something special (and keep your eye on the budget), then you are surpassing what any new gear can give you. You’re gaining valuable experience so even if the gear is not the latest you can still pull greatness.

That’s the difference between being a “beat maker” and a “record producer” (There is a difference, but we’ll talk about that another time).

- Odell

Hit Man!!!

BLAQ PHAME

2011-06-16T08:59:00.001-07:00

Pushing boundaries... not just talking...

interview by:Odell Vickers Jr.

Yes, a man may say, you have faith, and I have works: show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. James 2:18 american king james version

I had been a follower of his music for a few years now. His skill with sounds & samples are stellar. His abilities on the mic are equally impressive, but it was when I saw his reference to the concept “faith without works is dead”, that I had to reach out to this “‘Port City” talent.

The Official Post. What’s good Phame? What have you been workin’ on?

Blaq Phame. Aww man, life is good. Thankful to be here having this interview with someone of your stature. I’m here in Shreveport, working on a couple projects right now. About to complete my first solo attempt, which is a mixtape “ The Art Of Insanity “. I’ve also been working aside Robert Crutchfield, building a catalog of songs for various projects - one being the CBS (Crutch, Blaq, and Slim) album. And of course, you know I get a lot of developing acts that come to me for production and instrumentals for their mixtapes and demos etc.

TOP. How long have you been at making music?

Phame. I think it’s safe to say a little over 14 years. I started out young. When I was in high school, most of my peers were into sports and medical assistant programs and stuff. But I was always into music. I played the french horn in band and was a 1st chair violinist in the orchestra. I started getting into poetry and it came to a point where as I got older my poetry began to kind of transform and become more aggressive. Which in turn lead me to rap. And it just stuck with me.

TOP. Which do you prefer; rapping or beat making?

Phame. Wow... That’s a tough one! Ummm, well I guess it depends on the type of mood I’m in. There are times where I just literally have so much to say that I find myself writing for days at a time. And then of course, I know you’ll feel me on this one... When you’re a producer and you get new equipment, you pretty much lock yourself and the studio and just create until you need more inspiration or fall asleep, which ever comes first. lol

TOP. I can definitely relate to that. What artists are you listening to these days?

Phame. I’m a huge Kanye West follower. He’s more adored for the controversy that surrounds him, but when I listen to his music I hear so much more. Dude has a sick sense of sound placement. It’s like, a painter who will intentionally mix odd colors to come up with the most abstract visual. And while, confusing it may be to grasp his entire concept... The painting is so refreshingly different from anything you’ve ever seen, to the point where you’re left with no choice but to be attracted to it... But honestly, you might catch me listening to all types of stuff. I grew up on Air Supply and groups like Hall & Oates, so I get drawn in to a lot of different things.

TOP. Sometimes when I’m about to construct a beat, I’m locked-in to what it will be before I sit down. What’s your production process?

Phame. I usually see it first! It may sound crazy but I usually see some kind of visual in my mind and then it’s like, I try to sit down and create the score for it. It feels cinematic in a sense. But when I get clients that want a particular sound I have to shape-shift and really just get into them as artists, and that’s usually where some of my most prized work is. Other artists always seem to pull something special out of me every time.

TOP. How would you classify your lyrical style?

Phame. Oh wow... My lyrical style... Hmmm well if I was to create the category in question, I would say... It would be a mixture of conscious rap, with a hint of hardcore element to it. If it were possible to mix Common with DMX, lol you would probably get me.

TOP. What do you think about the current state of hip-hop?

Phame. It definitely has a pulse. It’s alive and breathing. There’s a lot of new artists that have come about and completely changed the format of what our perception of hip hop is. And that’s to be expected for a genre of music that is forever changing. I mean, I’m a 80s baby. And I’ve seen hip hop transform several times. Hip hop is a pheonix. And for those who say it’s dead or has died, I think they’re right. However, just like the pheonix... Whenever it dies, it’s reborn a new (even more beautiful) creature than before. In my opinion of course.

TOP. Anything going down in the Shreveport music scene that’s impressing you?

Phame. Yay and nay. I would say “ yes ” to the fact that the local talent is growing and beginning to become more aware of itself but I still feel that we are on the fine line of staying in a comfort zone, or actually being brave enough to take chances and become the difference that is always needed for the culture of music to progress. I’m hoping that (we) can all step up to the challenge and be that difference.

TOP. What’s your dream project? Who would you most like to work with?

Phame. … always wanted to see a collab between the titans of the game. Something real risky. Like a conscious joint with a Common, a Nas, and maybe a Scarface on it. Man, I would love to work with Kanye... I just feel that it would be monumental. But honestly, I really would like to work with anyone who’s into creating timeless material. That’s something that is not seen very often nowadays. Nobody wants to make songs that will hang around for decades. It’s all about “ what’s hot right now “ in hip hop now. And I understand it from a business perspective but feel it’s not good from a cultural stand point. But I’m sure it’s coming though.

TOP. We don’t get too political around here, but do you have any advice for our president?

Phame. Yea... Don’t fall for the okie doke Obama! If you’ve ever played chess, you know what I mean... Pawns are sacrificed often. But in the game of survival, all pieces on the board are important and I feel that our president is being used to do in a short period of time what no president could ever pull off. And they’re using the fact that he’s highly favorable to do it. Other than that I say, “ hold ya head up because no one’s perfect, and with the weight of an entire country on your shoulders... it’s easy to make mistakes in the eye of the public. “ People forget that it’s just as much (our) responsibility as it is (our) governing body to ensure the future of (our) nation. Gotta get out there and be heard if you got something to say. Period.

TOP. Any last thoughts?

Phame. Yes... Odell beats BANG!!! And I want one! Lol

Odell. You got it homie!..

LOK AKIM & 333 Music University

2010-05-11T16:45:00.000-07:00

YOU MUST LEARN & THIS ONE IS HERE TO TEACH. RECOGNIZE!!!

Interview by : Odell Vickers

T.O.P. Tell us about the origin on the name “Lok Akim”.

Lok Akim. At first I went with the name “Warlok”. Lok Akim is a twist on that name. After hurricane Katrina and some research, I found the name “Hakim”, which is Arab for “he who has wisdom”. I dropped the ‘War’ from Warlok, and kept the ‘Lok’. Translation; he who has wisdom locked in, plus the name “Warlock was negative to me and I wanted to go with something more positive.

When did you notice the power of words and your ability to manipulate them?

I recognized early on, my need to stand out from the crowd, and my need to be seen as a person with something to say. Words allowed me to present and express my feelings with impact. Lok says, “Life made him realize the power of music and words”. I’d also have to say that my reasons for doing this music thing have changed. I’d have to say that my words, post Katrina, are not used to manipulate but to motivate. I realized the power and influence of words.

What’s your process in the studio? How do you craft those musical gems?

First I have to have the right track. A good track will dictate mood, so the track really has to talk to you. Once I’m one with the track, then I orchestrate and pick words to pick the rhythm and feel. I look for beats I can communicate with ‘cause my music comes from within.

Were you always a “Hip Hopper”, or does your music come from some other place?

My music came from my watching my mother & her many friends performing on Bourbon Street at The Famous Door. The rap classic “Sucker MC’s”, by Run DMC is the first rap that made me say “wow… hip hop”! I moved the crowd in 9th Grade when I performed that classic, and from that moment I was hooked.

What’s your writing process?

Everyone seems to have a crew these days. Do you roll with one or do you roll solo?

I definitely roll with a crew. BH2O (Blackwater) making moves!!! After Katrina, the click definitely spread out. Actually, BH2O started to morph after one of our crew “South” was killed. Our members started to branch out, and we started to enlist more than just rappers and producers. We started to pull actors, models, singers etc. all walks of life and professions.

Now, I know for a fact that you don’t just write and produce. Are you planning on releasing any of your own music as an artist, or are you content to stay behind the scenes?

“Lok Akim” (the artist) is a serious focus. I’m no longer content to just stay behind the scenes. As a matter of fact, I am my main focus. I’m going to release material that shows my growth from Warlok to Lok Akim with songs like the grimy “Dog In The Streets” to “Champion”.

(Note: “I Rise” is the song, Lok Akim sees as his transition/growth song)

“333 University”; Tell us about it. Is it a record label, management company or something more?

Well, 3:33 is the time of birth for my second son. I started Tsunami Music Chapel, but I later decided I didn’t want to be associated with a tsunami. I decided on the name 333 Chapel. It was seen as sort of a safe house for talent, then later it became 333 Music University because being a part of it means you’ll be a part of a learning experience. It’s also to be noted that there are spiritual overlays to the name; Jesus was 33 years old when he died and rose in 3 days. Records (Wax LP’s) used to be labeled with 33 and a 3rd, and the number nine (a derivative of 3), in numerology is the number of completion. The number 9 is considered the last real number.

Any dream projects you’d love to be involved in?

Well, I would have loved to unite with MJ on some music.

Are there any “333” projects that you want to put on blast right here and now?

I got on the “Camouflage” remix with Brandy. I’m releasing “Dog In These Streets”

And “Get That Paper”. My most ambitious project is my three hundred, thirty-three song album titled “Emerald Tablet”.

What do you think about the game of music and the music business in general?

It’s civil war. There’s no government, but there is a revolution going on. People’s memories are short. Nobody’s investing in whole albums anymore. People are searching for quality now, not whole albums of crap. People want good music again. Gucci proves that gangster rap is still alive and well. This is the time (in this business), when real hard work is recognized. It’s more on the Indie artists to push themselves.

Do you have any advice for our “Commander-In-Chief”?

I’d tell him to remember, refer, observe, adapt and overcome. Don’t worry about pleasing. Do what you know you need to do.

GAIL FLY

2009-07-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

www.rtsmusicllc.com

Raising The Standard

Gail Fly is one of gospel music’s unknown but most promising treasures. Not yet a household name, she consistently offers up tremendous praise with a voice that knows no limits and a message that is as un-wavering as it is necessary.

The Official Post: Let’s start here. How’s it been, the last few years, post “Hurricane Katrina”? Has the experience changed your message at all?

“Katrina” as I so fondly call “her” was an experience that I will NEVER forget! To rearrange a famous literary quote, “It was the worst of times – it was the best of times”. What I mean by that is I’ve always had a foundation in the Lord, but that experience was one where you had to surely know that your faith was built on Jesus Christ. I tell people who cannot relate to what happened here in the city during that tine (and for some is still happening) – imagine waking up tomorrow and not know life as you knew it the day before – losing your home, possessions, car, and almost your mind…but GOD!

TOP: Do you remember about when you started singing?

I started singing as a young girl in the Sunshine Band in the Church of God in Christ, but I clearly remember my first “public” solo in fifth grade in the elementary school choir. I led “Plenty Good Room in My Father’s Kingdom”, LOL!

TOP: Did you always know that it was what you were meant to do?

I think most of us know to some degree what it is we are “meant to do” in life but I think it’s a matter of time and season – purpose and destiny. So to answer your question, yes…I believe I always knew but it had to be in the right time and season.

TOP: Having heard you perform many times, it’s obvious, you could have been a successful recording artist in any genre of music. What made you choose Gospel/Christian music as your focus?

It’s a God-given talent that I feel I owe back to Him – to use to benefit the kingdom of God in some way – to help share the love and the message of Jesus Christ.

TOP: Your husband is a “Man Of God”. I’ve had the pleasure of hearing him bring forth some powerful messages. I know he supports you. Is he intricately involved in what you do?

My husband lends his support to me in a multiplicity of ways. He would actually be the person to thank for the completion of our first project, “Who Will Worship?” Besides and far greater than his financial investment; it was my husband that encouraged and urged me to resume and complete the project. It was a difficult time after Katrina – I can’t stress that enough and I was in a place that I didn’t even want to sing anymore! Some may not understand that, but unless you’ve been there, don’t judge it without the understanding of a thing.

TOP: “Raising The Standard”. On your first recording, I saw another company name listed in the credits as your music firm. What made you change the name to RTS (Raising The Standard), and is there a website we can visit to learn more about the RTS movement?

The Raising the Standard movement? I like that! In 2002 my husband and I formed 2flypblishing, LLC. It was a cute, snazzy name – Gail Fly, 2fly, I mean, come on, it was cool, right? Wrong! It was drawing attention to me, to my name and that was clearly NOT the focus of my ministry. Yes – Ministry. You see, Raising the Standard Music is a “forerunner” for Raising the Standard Ministries, Inc. This is the name the Lord gave my husband many years ago (before we were even married, I believe; so, you’re talking over 13 years ago) as the name of his multicultural, multifaceted ministry that he will one day oversee. So, I began to take a deep look at the real purpose behind what I was doing and came to realize that it is to bring forth, birth, introduce a ministry that is to come.

TOP: Who in the gospel music community inspires you? As a business woman? As an artist?

As a business woman I am clearly inspired by CeCe Winans, Vickie Winans and Juanita Bynum. Artists that inspire me include (and are not limited to) Yolanda Adams, Donnie McClurkin, Mary Alesi and Marcus Cole (Bless My Soul!)

TOP: What was the name of your first project? Is there another one in the works? Is there anything you would like to add?
Our first project was entitled, “Who Will Worship?” We released the cd Sept 1, 2007 in Baton Rouge, LA. Another project is definitely in the works. It will be another worship CD. We are very encouraged, motivated and inspired to learn we were recently nominated 2009 Traditional Female Vocalist of the Year and in the Praise & Worship Album of the Year with Rhythm of Gospel. We attended the awards ceremony July 11th in Pine Bluff, AR where we were awarded Traditional Female Vocalist of the Year. To God Be the Glory for all the things He has done; is doing; and will continue to do for, in and through His people!
...

THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING A PLAN

2009-07-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

(In this crazy thing we call the music business)

So… you’re this gifted MC. When you rap, it’s like someone preaching a sermon over a beat. If you flow about the struggles of day-to-day life, you make people feel that someone out there gets what they’re going through. If your subject matter gets into the “street hustle”, listeners wonder if you are only rapping about it or because you are so compelling, people wonder if you were actually out there in those streets hustling. Spit a few verses about fine women and sipping champagne at the clubs and pushing a tight whip on whatever the latest rims are, and groupies start to stalk you on Twitter and haters try to get at you to take what they think you have.

You’re that good at rhyming. Your talent is undeniable. You work with one of or some of the tightest beat makers in the game, so believe me when I say, I understand your frustration. You’ve been working hard at building your career. You’ve just hit the 25 year old mark (old timer in rap years), so now you feel you have to adjust your age on your bio, take some new pictures, change your style a little to fit what’s hot now. You clock in to a job that sucks all the life out of you. You are getting desperate now. When your friends call about making some fast money doing “God knows what”, you don’t reply “NO” as fast as you used to. You can’t take it much longer. Icing on the cake is that you’re are in a relationship with someone who believed in your dream at first and is now actively campaigning that you let the dream go and move on.

Wow! That would be enough for anyone to consider a career change. Give up the dream. Move on, but wait. That passion burning deep inside you to do what you do is telling you that you just have to go. Pack your bags for a week long stay in New York. You believe (as you should) that you have the best collection of beats and rhymes ever assembled on one project, so you’re going to just go out there and make someone listen, and then sign you up for superstardom.

I know this sort of blind passion well. You hear stories of how someone made it happen, just like that. Truth is, there are a few stories of that happening. Some of them are even true. So what’s stopping you from achieving that goal? The fact that in your own hometown, there are hundreds, if not thousands of people chasing that same dream. In your region there’s thousands upon thousands who want a successful music career. You don’t believe me? Go to Myspace, type in your area code and watch how many starving artist are in your area. But, you say, “Man…those cats can’t hang with me”. This music business is littered with artist who can’t hold their own against some unsigned talent somewhere in the world. Which means that the reason you don’t have a deal has very little if anything to do with your abilities.

Now back to the “desperate trip to New York, LA, ATL or where ever” plan. You’re the poster boy for a starving artist. You have maximum skills but no money, contacts or influence. You’ve never been to any of the music industry Mecca’s out there so if you take the trip, you’ll be flying blind. The money you have saved up is impressive for where you live and the local economy that you thrive in. In your own hometown or region, that nest egg could do a lot. I guarantee you that it won’t mean the same in those places I mentioned. I’m not saying don’t go. I am however saying, have a plan.

In New York, there are just as many or more artists trying to get a break. I’ll bet you that the phones are constantly being bombarded with calls from people who live there trying to get on. Now as an artist, you need to have a great deal of confidence in yourself, but you also need to recognize that talent alone will not get you through the door.

People don’t realize the value of having a well thought out, well-written plan. You can’t beat a plan. Especially one that is physically represented on paper, so that you can reference it when you feel yourself getting off point or if you need to make an adjustment in you efforts to reach your goal. A plan (A realistic plan) cuts through all the thoughts that are counter productive to you getting where you want to go.

Try this; get in your car, and go somewhere you’ve never been, but don’t use Map Quest or any type of map. There’s a chance, all be it a slim one, that you may stumble on to your destination. Now, pull out a map, mark your destination and find the best root to get there. You will undoubtedly save fuel, time and energy getting there with a map as apposed to going at it with out one. A plan is nothing more than a map. People who succeed at their goals usually have a plan. A plan designed to cut out all the wrong turns, and wasted moves.

The music business is overflowing with people sitting on the porch, waiting for you to ask them for directions to places they’ve never even been. You know the people I mean; you get lost out there and you decide to stop and ask someone who looks like they might know, usually because they are in the area of where you’re trying to go, and nine times out of ten, they don’t have a clue. They may even ask for a lift hoping to ride your coat tails.

Having a plan will help you to prepare for rough terrain, curves in the road, and it will help you properly fuel for the trip. “Damn dude, you want me to stop my hustle and write out a plan”? Yes. Your plan does not have to be this twenty or thirty page long formal document. It can be as simple as an out line on one sheet of paper that highlights points or small goals along the way to your ultimate goal, or don’t. Get out there and drive. Waste gas, and make unnecessary moves. Take that trip on the fly and use that hard-earned money in some of the most expensive cities in the world. There’s a slim chance that it will work, but why not hedge your bets. Figure out who you need to talk to out there. Make sure they are in town the week you go. Make sure that they will be able to meet with you. Make sure that they are not in a business cycle that won’t allow them to sign anyone for reasons like budgets or cut backs on new signings. Believe me! You don’t want to have to come back home with no deal, no prospects, no hope, and now… a whole lot less money. Think about it…

CARLOS "WOLF" JONES

2009-05-04T11:48:00.000-07:00

CEO of SoulRac Music

www.myspace.com/wolfdenproductions

SO, WHATS ON YOUR SCHEDULE FOR THE REST OF 09?

Right now, I'm just looking to grow my company and push it to the limit. I don't really have a schedule , I'm just going to continue make music from my heart and see what happens.

I’VE HAD A CHANCE TO HERE SOME OF YOUR WORK ON KHALI’S“TRAGEDY & HOPE”. HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR SOUND?

I would describe my sound as a soulful mix of jazz, r&b, blues, neo soul, and some gospel influences also. I have a very broad spetrum when it comes to my sound.

AS AN INDIE PRODUCER WHATS MORE YOUR FOCUS? INDEPENDENT ARTIST OR ARE YOU AIMING TO GET MORE INVOLVED WITH MAJOR RECORDING ARTISTS?

I'm focusing more on the independent artists because they are more open to be different and not conformed to the industry standard of what and artist should be.

ARE YOU GOING TO DROP AN ALBUM OF YOUR OWN?

That is definately in my future plans one day soon.

WHATS YOUR DREAM PROJECT?

My dream project would be my own project, featuring artist like Felicia G., Faith, Anita Baker, Whitney Houston, Jennifer Hudson and Jazmine Sullivan on one disc and DH, Neo, Usher, Maxwell, Smokey Robinson, Rakim and Jay Z on the other disc. I know, crazy mix huh.

NOW WITH SOLRAC, YOU DON’T JUST DO THE MUSIC, YOU ALSO HAVE TO OVERSEE ALL THE OTHER ASPECTS OF RUNNING A LABEL. WHICH DO YOU PREFER; PRODUCING OR RUNNING A RECORD LABEL?

Although I love producing, I prefer running my label because it allows me to be in complete control of my own destiny so-to-speak. Overseeing every aspect of an artists development is crucial to Solrac's success.

DO YOU PLAY AN INSTRUMENT?

Yes, I do. I play drums, keyboards, organ, tuba and a little bass guitar.

MUSICALLY, WHERE’D YOU GET YOUR START?

When I was in middle school, I joined the band as a percussionist and soon , I started to play the tuba. From there, I progressed to the youth choir at my church. That's when the real training started.

WHATS A TYPICAL “WOLF SESSION” LIKE?

Very structured.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

The current state of the music business inspires me to make a productive impact in the music game.

WHEN DID YOU REALIZE THAT THIS IS SOMETHING YOU WANTED TO DO FOR A CAREER?

Probably about 16 or 17 years ago.

ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO LET THE PEOPLE KNOW?

Lookout for Solrac Records, we're coming with a breath of fresh air. Solrac will bolster music and spoken word for all ages.

REDDUKE

2009-03-22T14:49:00.000-07:00

SUPER PRODUCER FROM "THE ROCK"

Let’s start here. When did you start making beats?

I started making beats around the age of thirteen.

Who are some of your biggest influences?

I would have to say Mannie Fresh who is one of the favorites, Jazze Pha and a producer in Little Rock, Arkansas known as Big Keys.

What are you working on now?

I’m currently working on a second solo album with an artist who goes by the name Gutta B, who also is in Arkansas. Amongst some other small projects.

How did you and Khali hook up on the “Shortie Got It Going On” single, and will ya’ll work together again in the future?

Khali and I got together on the “Shortie Got It Going On”single solely through Odell Vickers. I played some beats for him one day and I had one I thought he might really feel. He liked it and already had a chorus that he had been working on. He said he had an artist that would be good for on the track, I was like cool. Odell sent the track to Khali and the rest is history. I would like to work with Khali in the future most definitely.

“The Rock” has yet to really blow up. With so much heat on the independent scene what do you think it will take to finally put Little Rock on the hip-hop map?

The number on thing would be to build a network of dedicated individuals who understand that the nature of the business has changed. The next step would be to always without a doubt make good quality music. It is so hard to walk up to someone and sell them a cd , because for one thing you don’t have a buzz or a fan base and it is so many other people doing the same thing you are. So the question would be. What separates you from the rest?

Lastly, support one another. You may not like the next person’s music but you are trying to achieve the same dream. So just lend some advice or some words of encouragement from time to time.

What would be your dream project?

My dream project would have to be linking up with T.I. and doing a song and being Grammy nominated.

Are you planning on starting your own record label or building your own click?

I would start a label in the future only when real music re-surfaces.

Right know with the music that is out, I would have to let some of it die out first, then just when the world needs a breath of fresh air, BAM!!!

I saw you had something out independently. What was it and where can fans go to get it?

Aw yeah that is Gutta B’s first solo album. It didn’t do as well as we projected due to financial issues and other endeavors, but we’ve resolved those minor setbacks and we are ready to deliver an album that has been greatly anticipated. Go to wwwmyspace.com/reddukegutta@aol.com for all updated info.

Are you planning to stay strictly behind the scenes or will you do the superstar, “in the videos”, spittin’ lyrics type of producer?

(Redduke Laughs) I think I will stick to being behind the scenes, but if duty calls I may have to strap up my boots and grind in the trenches.

Anything else you want people to know about Redduke?

I’m just a God fearing man and a work fanatic that gives a hundred and seven percent to anything I put my hand to.

Khali

2009-03-14T17:19:00.000-07:00

The Street Professor

Your, album “Tragedy & Hope”. Where can people get it?

You can get it from the internet at dellsong.mfbiz.com.

Why did you title it “Tragedy & Hope”?

I feel it is tragic the way most of us live. Poverty, crime fatherless homes and drug addiction is what I see most in my community. This is a tragedy that I am an active participant in. I feel as if we should be hopeful because amazing things can and do happen to all of us. When we keep hope alive it fills us with a warrior’s spirit and toughens us up for the world. Having hope allows us to believe that everything will be alright. This is why the album is called “Tragedy and Hope”. It is food for your soul.

Your lyrics; they aren’t like most lyrics out now. Where does your inspiration come from?

My inspiration comes from the competitive part of me. I want to make songs that make people stop what their doing and listen. To be the artist that you know is going to come with something different and hot every time. At the same time words are powerful. Since I see the world like that I carefully pick and choose my words like a soldier selecting his weapons.

Is everything you write from first hand experiences?

No. Sometimes I might write a song about something I totally made up, or something someone told me. I never know how inspiration is going to hit me.

What do you think about the current state of hip-hop?

I think the creativity level is lower than in years past. There was a time where everybody sounded different and had there own style. People didn’t use the same catch phrases and lines as the next man. I don’t like when artists “Bite” other artist rhymes and phrases either, so there are some things I can disagree with in the current hip-hop state of affairs.

Who did you work with on your album?

Concerning production, Odell (formerly of Beats By The Pound/The Medicine Men), Carlos “Big Wolf” Jones, Redduke and Slack.

Anybody out there you’d love to work with?

There are so many. I would love to do work with all of the old school R&B acts. I would make a very hot record with Sade! I also think it would be interesting to see what myself and Cee-Lo Green could do in the studio.

You seem to have a plan past rap already in place. Care to give us some insight into the post MC plan?

I am not just a rapper. I have a multiplicity of talents and ideas. I have a brand and a crew that I am going to establish called Black Capital. Following in the footsteps of all the past great hip-hop indie giants. Making films is another venture I want to get into.

People think you are brand new to the game, but in fact you’ve been at this for a while. What are some of the titles of some of your other works?

I made my first record “The Embryo” back in 1997 totally independent. I recorded seven records over the span of eleven years! My last three records were “Seize Tha Time” “The Street Professor Vol.I” and “Tragedy and Hope”.

Are you content to be just a rapper or do you have mogul dreams also?

I definitely have mogul dreams, but I am not yearning to be one now. I am going to take it step by step. First I want to put out a catalog of hit records. Then move more into the mogul realm.

Do you roll with a click or entourage?

I have an entourage of emcees that I roll with but we don’t have an official name. I can name them off though: Hotep, I.Z, Maximvs, Black Phame, and Tox. These are artists who I trust and have been working with for some time. I believe in them as much as I believe in myself.

Anything else you wanna’ let the people know?

I am going to blow your mind. Once the world gets a chance to really understand who I am they are going to love me. I am going to be that guy that comes on TV and you turn it up quick! I’m not only about the music. I am about God and life. I want to expose the ugly things in this world and be the champion of the people. I feel like I am a new age revolutionary and I believe that is exactly what the people are looking for now.

Write Me a Check Please...

2009-02-27T21:48:00.000-08:00

I spend a lot of time giving advice to indie recording artist who are at the end of the line where patience is concerned. They've pounded the pavement, shook the hands, sat in the meetings with so many sellers of the dream of super stardom. I understand that desperation can cloud judgement. This desperation is one of the main reasons for bad "record deals". The pimping of desperate artists is so prevalent in this business that now days, artist sometimes walk away from a potentially good deal out of frustration and fear.

Recently I was talking to this MC I know. He's a good guy. He's extremely talented, but very worn and exhausted from what feels like a never ending battle to get "put on" in the music business. Recently, he was approached by a company which dealt mainly in digital distribution of mp3's. The company had a laundry list of requirements to sign with it. Most contracts are pretty detailed and lengthy, so that was to be expected. What stopped me in my tracks was the insistence that the artists was required to write a check to this company to help pay for the deal. Even more absurd was the reasoning. The company suggested that it was taking all of the risks financially; that the artists was only rapping.

I quickly informed the artist how silly a position this was for a so called record company to take. The company was trying to make the artist feel obligated to the company because the label was footing the bill for marketing and promotion...

... but, isn't that the labels job? The label can't rap. The label cant get on stage and perform the music. My main reason for being angry about this is the way some companies try to treat the talent as if they aren't bringing anything to the table. They're the talent. You, the label, opted to go into business with that artists based on their talent and marketability. The artist should have sought out a company that could issue them a fair contract and a good plan for marketing and promotions.

The artist/record company relationship is like a marriage, and no side of this arrangement should be treating the other side as if they aren't stepping up to the plate(unless that is actually the case). That doesn't really work in a solid marriage, it won't work in an artist/label situation either.

Long story short; you should not be paying someone to put out your album. The label brings it's marketing and promo muscle to the table and you, the artist, bring your A-game when it comes to performing. Best case scenario is the label and the artists, after costs, split profits, but in the typical scenario, the artist gets his or her percentage of sales once the product is in the market place.

Dig deep and look for that patience and keep watchful for a fair deal, or better yet; put the product out yourself.

AND YOU WANT ME TO BUY YOUR ALBUM TOO?...

2009-02-18T09:22:00.000-08:00

I remember once; a few years ago, riding in a very, very nice car with a somewhat known recording artist. Despite my years in the music business, I had never been able to purchase anything like it, and was enjoying the ride. The artist, who shall remain nameless, was in rare form. He/she was really feeling like a “Big Dawg” and couldn’t stop talking about his/herself. I thought, whatever. I’ll just tune the artist out (something I learned to do early on in my career), and enjoy the ride. We stopped at a convenience store. It seemed, to me, to be a deliberate attempt at getting attention. It worked. Fans were falling all over one another to get a glimpse of the artist in all her/his glory.

Then a strange thing happened. A fan, with a cheap camera, asked the artist to join them in a picture. The artist looked at the cheap camera, at the inexpensive clothes, the not so new shoes, and without skipping a beat said, ”Nope. Your lil’ cheap camera won’t do me justice, and you definitely need to go home and change into something better, if you want to take a picture with me.”

WHAT?!!... WHAT?!!... I was floored! The artist stayed in character, and kept it moving; didn’t apologize, didn't see the obvious devastation on the fan’s face. I watched this child, who could not have been more than fifteen years old. I stood there in disbelief. I watched as the young fan slowly walked away; shamed and embarrassed. I wanted to say something, but what?

After that display, the artist and I climbed back in the car ad drove off. What the heck had just happened? The artist picked up on my confusion and said; “Oh, you gotta’ let ‘em know where they stand and where you stand. They can’t feel like they’re on your level, because then they won’t worship the ground you walk on…Unbelievable!!!

And these people that you treat like crap! Are they the ones you want to buy your music? I’ve seen varied versions of this story many times. Artists developing an unhealthy “god” complex, forgetting that the dollars; the ones people scrape together just to survive now-a-days, matter. The people spending those dollars matter. Artist forget that fans make and break them, so they should at least show some gratitude for a fan’s patronage.

This economy is no joke. It’s a crisis of confidence on a national level, with international ramifications. People are afraid. The idea of America as an economic power is for the first time in a long time, a shaky concept. People don’t have money to waste on things they don’t actually need, but if they should scrape together some pennies to download a single 99 cents mp3 instead of a whole album, you really need to recognize the sacrifice someone made for the sake of your art.

I did have the pleasure of meeting and working with another artist. The artist was a very well known and respected artist, both nationally and internationally. We were talking when we were interrupted; by a mother holding a cheap disposable camera and wearing a big smile. She very graciously begged for a picture for her son. The artist and I stopped talking immediately, and very graciously said yes. The artist took about eight pictures with the mother, gave her CD’s, t-shirts and told her that she/he would be there all day if she wanted to bring her son back to meet. After this, the artist and I resumed our conversation. The artist apologized for the interruption and explained; “You take the time to talk to fans. Even if that person is not a buyer, the story of how you took the time to acknowledge them, could spark interest in someone she or he talks to.” The artist said,” you always take time for your fans.”

Now this artist... I definitely want to buy your album too.

-THE POST

Be An Original

2009-01-30T23:20:00.000-08:00

Whoa…this is harder than I thought. I’m so busy building. I’m moving so fast, I’m having trouble trying to find the time to write, but so many artist and moguls in training seek my advice on so many things, it’d be wrong of me to not drop some info every so often.

Look people, If you get off into this business with the thought that “I’m going to be the next Roc-A-Fella” or “I’m going to be just like No Limit”, you are stacking the cards against yourself right out of the gate. Have you ever seen or heard an artist who reminds you so much of someone that’s already out there? The splash is always exciting. People initially check him or her out, then…nothing. They either flop right after the launch or they tend to fade. It’s because, people gravitate toward the original, not the cheap copy. This is what happens in a business where too many suits decide that a success should be turned into a pattern. They see one successful artist, and they try to duplicate that success over and over. There’s nothing wrong with shooting for success every time, but the more you copy something, the more you sacrifice quality for quantity.

What you really want to be in this business is an original. If your goal is to really make a mark in the game of music, you don’t want to remind people of something else. You want them to be captivated by you. Captivated by the product you sell them. Drawn into your story. If there’s any copying going on, let someone else try to copy you. I heard it was flattering.

It’s easy to pretend to be something or someone you’re not for a little while, but sooner or later, the real you starts to show, but if you win being yourself, it’s easy to maintain what you’re selling, because what you’re selling is the real you.

PS. There will be legal speak and more shop talk in the future. Stay tuned.

ON PARTNERSHIPS

2009-01-27T19:33:00.000-08:00

ALL RIGHT! THIS IS STRICTLY MY OPINION. THERE’S NO RESEARCH TO BACK IT UP AND NO STUDIES TO CONFIRM THIS VIEW. MOST PARTNERSHIPS ARE DOOMED FROM THE START. I’M NOT SAYING DON’T DO THEM (run as fast as you can), I’M SAYING THAT YOU HAVE TO PREPARE FOR THIS INEVITABLE TRUTH; THAT YOU AND YOUR PARTNER OR PARTNERS WILL GROW. WHAT’S IMPORTANT TO YOU AND YOUR PARTNER (S) MAY CHANGE AS YOU MOVE ON THROUGHOUT LIFE. THE ONLY THING THAT’S CERTAIN IN ANY ENTERPRISE INVOLVING MULTIPLE LEADERS IS THAT A CHANGE IN PERSONAL PHILOSOPHIES AND A SHIFT IN FOCUS WILL COME. HOW YOU DEAL WITH THAT SHIFT WILL DETERMINE THE FUTURE OF YOUR ENTERPRISE.

DON’T THINK IT’S POSSIBLE OR EVEN LIKELY? THINK ROC-A-FELLA, RICK RUBIN AND DEF JAM, EPMD etc. FOR ANY ENTERPRISE TO GROW, THERE HAS TO BE A DOMINANT PHILOSOPHY (NOT NECESSARILY A DOMINANT PERSON). THINK OF A COMPANY AS A CHILD AND YOU AND YOUR PARTNER (S) TRYING TO RAISE IT ON COMPETING PHILOSOPHIES. IT WILL NOT WORK. AT THE END OF THE DAY, FOR THAT CHILD TO GET IT, THE PARENTS WILL HAVE TO BE ON THE SAME PAGE, AND THERE WILL HAVE TO BE COMPROMISES TO FIND THAT SINGULAR DIRECTION FOR THAT CHILD TO GROW.

Kings & Pawns

2009-01-27T19:02:00.000-08:00

-Way too many people think that being in a leadership position means talking down to subordinates, yelling at them, dismissing their thoughts and down playing their contributions. I’ve seen this behavior many times. It’s especially prevalent in the music business. Many so-called CEO’s are infected with this “I’m The Big Dog, You’re the Lil’ Dog” mentality. These same leaders are shocked when their workers don’t really seem to be dedicated to the cause. These leaders don’t understand why there has to be that many motivational speeches in a single day. Back in those times of Kings, there were men who in the big picture were considered pawns. They were the soldiers. If you read books about that period, the soldiers always seemed ready to die for their king and country. One of the reasons for such die-hard loyalty was that the king understood that he should not ask his soldiers to do something he wouldn’t first demand of himself. Fact is; sometimes the king would join his men on the battlefield, even lead the battle.

Think of the subordinates at your organization as the soldiers (more so than the pawns). Soldiers who recognize that what’s important to him or her; recognition of the personal sacrifices made for the good of the whole; is noticed and appreciated by their leader.

Remember leaders, you need workers. If you want them to commit, or go the extra mile you have to treat them like you appreciate them being there.

SOME SIMPLE (praclical) STEPS

2009-01-27T17:12:00.000-08:00

JUST SOME HELPFUL SUGGESTIONS WHILE YOU NAVIGATE THIS NEW MUSIC BUSINESS. NOT LAWYER TALK (WE'LL DO THAT LATER), JUST SOME OF MY EVERYDAY VIEWS & TOOLS

1.START COLLECTING AS MANY EMAILS AS POSSIBLE. THIS HABIT WILL BE USEFUL WHEN YOU START MAILING LISTS AND WHEN YOU DECIDE TO MASS PROMOTE ONLINE.

2.SET UP AN EMAIL ACCOUNT ( I PERSONALLY PREFER GMAIL BECAUSE OF THE SIZE OF FILES THAT CAN BE ATTACHED TO AN EMAIL). KEEP NOTHING IN THIS ACCOUNT BUT THE EMAIL ADDRESSES OF POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS OR CLIENTS. YOU CAN GROUP CERTAIN PEOPLE (AGE GROUPS, REGIONS, JOB SECTORS , ETC), TO MAKE SURE YOU ALWAYS HIT YOUR TARGET AUDIENCE.

3.SIT WITH AN ATTORNEY. ONE WHO KNOWS CORPORATE LAW. ONE WHO KNOWS THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS OF DOING BUSINESS IN YOUR PARTICULAR STATE/CITY/COUNTY. A LAWYER WITH TAX KNOWLEDGE WOULD REALLY COME IN HANDY. MAKE SURE THAT YOUR LAWYER CAN HANDLE YOUR TRADEMARK/TRADE NAME. NOW THAT BEING SAID, I HAVE COME TO ENJOY USING "LEGALZOOM.COM". YES I HAVE LAWYERS. YES THEY ARE VERY QUALIFIED TO HANDLE ALL MY LEGAL MATTERS, BUT SOME OF MY INTERESTS ARE STILL IN THE TOOLING STAGE, AND BECAUSE I DO HAVE A LOT OF KNOWLEDGE ABOUT THE LEGAL SIDE OF DOING BUSINESS, I FEEL COMFORTABLE WITH, SOMETIMES GETTING SMALL STUFF HANDLED THIS WAY. THEIR PRICES ARE REASONABLE, AND THEIR TURN AROUND FOR GETTING THINGS DONE IS FAIRLY QUICK.

NICHE - A FOCUSED, PORTION OF A MARKET SECTOR.

4. DECIDE ON A NICHE. ACTUALLY IN THE GRAND SCHEME OF SETTING UP YOUR OPERATION, SETTLING ON YOUR NICHE BEFORE YOU NAME YOUR BUSINESS WOULD PROBABLY WORK OUT BETTER FOR YOU. DOING THIS OUT OF ORDER; YOU COULD COME UP WITH A JAZZY NAME THEN FIND OUT YOU DON'T WANT TO WORK IN A PARTICULAR STYLE OF MUSIC. NOW YOU HAVE A NAME AND LOGO THAT DOESN'T FIT THE NEW NICHE YOU'VE DECIDED TO GO INTO. I MEET VERY AMBITIOUS PEOPLE WITH VERY GRAND DREAMS ALL THE TIME. PEOPLE TELL ME THAT THEY DON'T WANT A LABEL THAT ONLY DOES ONE TYPE OF MUSIC. ADMIRABLE BUT NOT PRACTICAL. DIFFERENT FORMS OF MUSIC REQUIRE DIFFERENT SOUNDS, RECORDING FACILITIES, DIFFERENT MARKETING, ETC.

USUALLY WHEN SOMETHING LIKE AN INDIE RECORD LABEL IS LAUNCHED, IT'S USUALLY A SMALL OR MICRO BUSINESS; WHICH MEANS YOU DON'T HAVE THE MAN POWER OR THE MONEY NEEDED TO MOUNT A MULTI-TIER, MULTIPLE GENRE MARKETING CAMPAIGN. SO, FOCUSING YOUR NEW COMPANY IS NECESSARY. IT KEEPS IT ALL MANAGEABLE. IT KEEPS IT SMALL ENOUGH IN THE BEGINNING AND HELPS YOU RESPOND TO CHANGES IN THE MARKET. MORE IMPORTANT FOR A NEW BUSINESS; IT KEEPS IT AFFORDABLE.

AND WE'RE OFF...

2009-01-20T07:38:00.000-08:00

I'VE HEARD IT SAID THAT...

"...GRATITUDE IS THE LEAST LASTING OF VIRTUES."

THERE I WAS...ABOUT A YEAR AGO, STEPPING BACK FROM MY CAREER. TRYING TO FIGURE OUT WHAT DIRECTION TO GO. THROUGHOUT MY CAREER I HAD HELPED PUSH MILLIONS, WORKED WITH SUPERSTARS AND LEGENDS ALIKE.

MY RESUME COMMANDED RESPECT FROM THE BOARDROOM TO THE 'HOOD. SO, WHY DID I NEED THE TIME AWAY? THEN THAT QUOTE HIT ME; "GRATITUDE IS THE LEAST LASTING OF VIRTUES". I THOUGHT LONG AND HARD ABOUT THAT. YOU CAN PUT YOUR ALL INTO HELPING SOMEONE AND THEY COULD FORGET YOU EVER LIFTED A FINGER FOR THEM. MY PRODUCTION FEES, THE AMOUNT OF INSIDER KNOWLEDGE I'VE ACQUIRED, INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS, ETC. I'VE BEEN WILLING TO PUT IT ALL ON THE LINE AND SWEAT FOR PEOPLE FOR LITTLE OR NOTHING, AND THEY ALWAYS FORGET ABOUT THAT.

SOMEONE OLD AND WISE ONCE TOLD ME THAT PEOPLE APPRECIATE WHAT THEY PAY FOR, AND FORGET WHAT THEY GET FOR FREE. SO "FREE" IS SOMETHING I DON'T DO ANYMORE, BUT QUALITY WORK, AND ABOVE PAR COMMITMENT TO THAT QUALITY IS SOMETHING I CONTINUALLY STRIVE FOR.

THE SKILLS I'VE ACQUIRED; CONSULTING, BRANDING, MARKETING, GENERAL BUSINESS PRACTICES, MUSIC PRODUCTION, SOUND DESIGN AND THE KNOW HOW NEEDED TO NAVIGATE THIS NEW MUSIC BUSINESS COME FROM YEARS IN THE TRENCHES. IF YOU NEED HELP GETTING IT ALL TOGETHER; FOLLOW THE BLOG AND WE'LL TALK BUSINESS. WE'LL TALK TRENDS IN THIS BUSINESS. WE'LL TALK ABOUT THE PERSONAL STRUGGLES AND SACRIFICES TIED TO THIS BUSINESS, AND SOME WHERE IN THERE, WE'LL SQUEEZE IN SOME CHATTER ABOUT GOOD MUSIC.

-The Post