Ayyyye so it's been a hot minute since I've posted on here !
shit's been kinda crazy lately ..
but updates about me later (: .
This post is about a diverse couple'a local private school boys gettin together , layin down some beats , and killin the rap game using their school facilities and abundance of free time .
B.F.A. consists of "Goonstar" and "Breez" (aka Isaiah and Coleman)
These fools have 2 songs up already and a fast growing fan base of friends ..
peep the myspace :
http://www.myspace.com/brothersfrumanother
Yes , if you are sick of hearing the same old rap played out on the radio ,
you should listen to these young fresh dudes , Brothers From Another .
The two tracks they got already are dope , so look forward to more cuts of somethin a lil different .
This ain't ya grandpa's hip hop ,
it's the next generation .
These gentlemen are juniors at Lakeside High School . They're international like the U.N. and you know they gotta be smart too .. even with some of that herb killin some brain cells (;
At least they keep it natural ..
So peep the next hot young MCs outta the 206 ... you heard it here first !
( My photos aren't tryna work right now , but check their myspace .. when I get it working again I'll post one up )
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Monday, September 15, 2008
Rap Music = Crack Music ??
I'm taking a media studies course for one of my humanities classes this year , and we were assigned reading from this book about media and socialization in society as a whole . One thing that I noticed came up a few times was rap music being influential in a negative way . I took offense to this -- Why , out of all the genres of music , is rap music still pegged as a negative influence moreso than other types of music ? And more importantly .... what have we done to make it that way ? Are we too accepting of derogatory language in rap songs ? I've heard , say , country music with sexist lyrics too . So what's the difference ? What is the factor , or factors , that make it that way ?
I think that it stems wayyy back in history , from slavery to the development of American society that was extremely prejudiced and xenophobic . Back to the oppressed all over the world , the evolution of music , taking ownership of something . Something beautiful among hatred and oppression and colonialism . Expression . Then from ghettos all over the US , then the rise of ethno-centric music , the back to Africa movement .
-edit-
then I wrote this for class , which still isn't finished but it's a draft:
Rap Music: Racial Stereotypes Perpetuated by the Socially Marginalized
Since slavery times in the United States, white people have set modern, American society up in such a way that they have a better likelihood of being more affluent, have better education and job opportunities, and have an overall social dominance. This is where racism comes in: essentially, it is institutionalized prejudice. It is an entire system, government, society that caters to and favors one race over the others.
The development and evolution of rap music comes from a cultural differentiation of minorities from this Anglo-centric society. Hip-hop finds its cultural roots in the 1970s in New York City, spearheaded predominantly by African Americans and Latinos. DJs revolutionized and popularized this particular style of music. Rap music, a sub-sect of hip-hop culture, began as an alternative form of music and artistic expression for many inner city, poverty stricken youth. It became a way to express hardships that came from being surrounded by dangers such as violence, drugs and crime. It birthed an entire sub-culture of urban America.
Today, mainstream rap music has gone through various evolutions and remains a very diverse genre. However, with many people it still holds negative connotations. Since rap music arose from “the ghetto,” people tend to associate it with these stereotypes: violent criminals who are illiterate or uneducated, sexist, poor, and who abuse and sell drugs and alcohol. There is also the assumption of placing a high, almost idolizing value on money or material possessions.
These stereotypes, like all other stereotypes, are founded in some truth. There are countless rap artists and songs, not to mention videos, that portray these images and values. What many people don’t tend to realize is that there are many rap artists that do not hold those same values. And while they might talk about violence, they do it in a way that is mournful and pleading instead of simply condoning it. Or they make a political statement (like Nas or Immortal Technique). Or they recognize certain degrading assumptions and disown them. They shatter the stereotypes.
There has come to be a sort of self-oppression within rap music, where artists perpetuate stereotypes created by other (white) people. This has often been addressed as the “dumbing down” of rap music and lyrics. For example, rapping an entire verse about the combined value of one’s gold chain and sports car while surrounded by women and liquor. These artists like T-Pain and Lil’ Wayne (the self-proclaimed “Best Rapper Alive”) use their music to degrade themselves with songs like “I’m in Love with a Stripper” and “A Milli”. Instead, rap music should be all about its original intent—empowerment of the powerless. On Nas’ new album, for example, he addresses the conservative bias of Fox News and explores the power of the N word. The most passionate music is created from the midst of chaos, hardship and oppression. When one validates a prejudice, it legitimizes the stereotype and therefore is almost like giving the oppressor permission to oppress. It is not only the acceptance but self-degradation when one promotes and validates these stereotypes and prejudices.
In order to remedy this validation, more rap artists need to use the influence of their music to send a message of empowerment and positive expression to the masses. Their audience should also recognize that these preconceptions are deeply rooted in the past and illustrate a history of colonialism and racial oppression. Instead of perpetuating negative stereotypes, rap artists should create new, positive images and ideals that the masses can (and will) follow. People need to deem these degrading messages unacceptable and promote positive self-image and fight the legacy of oppression.
I think that it stems wayyy back in history , from slavery to the development of American society that was extremely prejudiced and xenophobic . Back to the oppressed all over the world , the evolution of music , taking ownership of something . Something beautiful among hatred and oppression and colonialism . Expression . Then from ghettos all over the US , then the rise of ethno-centric music , the back to Africa movement .
-edit-
then I wrote this for class , which still isn't finished but it's a draft:
Rap Music: Racial Stereotypes Perpetuated by the Socially Marginalized
Since slavery times in the United States, white people have set modern, American society up in such a way that they have a better likelihood of being more affluent, have better education and job opportunities, and have an overall social dominance. This is where racism comes in: essentially, it is institutionalized prejudice. It is an entire system, government, society that caters to and favors one race over the others.
The development and evolution of rap music comes from a cultural differentiation of minorities from this Anglo-centric society. Hip-hop finds its cultural roots in the 1970s in New York City, spearheaded predominantly by African Americans and Latinos. DJs revolutionized and popularized this particular style of music. Rap music, a sub-sect of hip-hop culture, began as an alternative form of music and artistic expression for many inner city, poverty stricken youth. It became a way to express hardships that came from being surrounded by dangers such as violence, drugs and crime. It birthed an entire sub-culture of urban America.
Today, mainstream rap music has gone through various evolutions and remains a very diverse genre. However, with many people it still holds negative connotations. Since rap music arose from “the ghetto,” people tend to associate it with these stereotypes: violent criminals who are illiterate or uneducated, sexist, poor, and who abuse and sell drugs and alcohol. There is also the assumption of placing a high, almost idolizing value on money or material possessions.
These stereotypes, like all other stereotypes, are founded in some truth. There are countless rap artists and songs, not to mention videos, that portray these images and values. What many people don’t tend to realize is that there are many rap artists that do not hold those same values. And while they might talk about violence, they do it in a way that is mournful and pleading instead of simply condoning it. Or they make a political statement (like Nas or Immortal Technique). Or they recognize certain degrading assumptions and disown them. They shatter the stereotypes.
There has come to be a sort of self-oppression within rap music, where artists perpetuate stereotypes created by other (white) people. This has often been addressed as the “dumbing down” of rap music and lyrics. For example, rapping an entire verse about the combined value of one’s gold chain and sports car while surrounded by women and liquor. These artists like T-Pain and Lil’ Wayne (the self-proclaimed “Best Rapper Alive”) use their music to degrade themselves with songs like “I’m in Love with a Stripper” and “A Milli”. Instead, rap music should be all about its original intent—empowerment of the powerless. On Nas’ new album, for example, he addresses the conservative bias of Fox News and explores the power of the N word. The most passionate music is created from the midst of chaos, hardship and oppression. When one validates a prejudice, it legitimizes the stereotype and therefore is almost like giving the oppressor permission to oppress. It is not only the acceptance but self-degradation when one promotes and validates these stereotypes and prejudices.
In order to remedy this validation, more rap artists need to use the influence of their music to send a message of empowerment and positive expression to the masses. Their audience should also recognize that these preconceptions are deeply rooted in the past and illustrate a history of colonialism and racial oppression. Instead of perpetuating negative stereotypes, rap artists should create new, positive images and ideals that the masses can (and will) follow. People need to deem these degrading messages unacceptable and promote positive self-image and fight the legacy of oppression.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Seattle Anti-War Action Coalition
So there's been a recent formation of a Seattle anti-war coalition . Meetings are every Tuesday night from 7-9pm at Seattle Central Community College , Room BE 1110 .
Current actions planned include :
-Fall concert to benefit the G.I. Coffeehouse near Ft. Lewis , which will provide a safe place for soldiers to support each other , protect their rights , express anti-war sentiments and learn about the anti-war movement .
-Educational forum on the war in Afghanistan
-October 11th National Day of Action march and rally in Seattle
I'm on the benefit concert sub-committee within the coalition and so far artists that have said they would perform are Canary Sing , Language Arts , Choklate , Jim Page , and Kasi .
Some of the coalition's Points of Unity are :
-Immediate withdrawal of all troops from Iraq and Afghanistan
-Hands of Iran , Free Palestine
-Support GI resistance and extend full benefits to all veterans
-Reparations to the peoples of Iraq and Afghanistan
-Redirect money from the war to fund desperately needed jobs, social services, education, healthcare, housing and food
-Oppose sexism, racism, homophobia and all other forms of bigotry
The coalition brings together people from all sorts of peace and justice oriented organizations , including Iraq Veterans Against the War , but you definitely don't have to be affiliated with an organization to join .
Anyway , it's a new , great group , and has potential to do a lot of good .
New members are always welcome , even if you just want to come to one meeting . Check it out whether you're an activist or not , if you oppose the war and are for justice it's a great way to get involved .
Current actions planned include :
-Fall concert to benefit the G.I. Coffeehouse near Ft. Lewis , which will provide a safe place for soldiers to support each other , protect their rights , express anti-war sentiments and learn about the anti-war movement .
-Educational forum on the war in Afghanistan
-October 11th National Day of Action march and rally in Seattle
I'm on the benefit concert sub-committee within the coalition and so far artists that have said they would perform are Canary Sing , Language Arts , Choklate , Jim Page , and Kasi .
Some of the coalition's Points of Unity are :
-Immediate withdrawal of all troops from Iraq and Afghanistan
-Hands of Iran , Free Palestine
-Support GI resistance and extend full benefits to all veterans
-Reparations to the peoples of Iraq and Afghanistan
-Redirect money from the war to fund desperately needed jobs, social services, education, healthcare, housing and food
-Oppose sexism, racism, homophobia and all other forms of bigotry
The coalition brings together people from all sorts of peace and justice oriented organizations , including Iraq Veterans Against the War , but you definitely don't have to be affiliated with an organization to join .
Anyway , it's a new , great group , and has potential to do a lot of good .
New members are always welcome , even if you just want to come to one meeting . Check it out whether you're an activist or not , if you oppose the war and are for justice it's a great way to get involved .
Monday, July 21, 2008
MILLIONAIRES
Okay so I've literally been meaning to post this for , like , ever .
Because I've been listening to their music/been MySpace "friends" with them for a while now .
And they're up and coming ..
MILLIONAIRES is a cute little pop/electronic band made up of three girls from around LA .
Their lyrics are ridiculous , they wear American Apparel , and they are steadily growing in popularity .
They're currently on a US tour and recently appeared on MTV's TRL .
They've gotten a lot of publicity . It's not even that they're very talented , they just have hilarious songs and rock their swag hard .
MILLIONAIRES is headed by Melissa Marie joined by her sister Allison and best friend Dani .
They hit Seattle a few weeks ago , and though I missed their show I'm not too bummed cuz it was probably a 13 year old girl fan-fest . Which is , I'm sure , a setback for MILLIONAIRES -- but hey , they're from LA , on TRL , and touring the US . So I'm sure I can speak for them when I say they can't complain .
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Remi Nicole
I just happened to click on one of her videos on Youth Radio .
She's a young singer/songwriter from London and her songs are kinda poppy and cute with her strumming on a guitar and her British accent .
I really love the song " Fed Up " and the video for her hit " Go Mr. Sunshine " .
She's a great new artist to check out , her sophmore album is due to drop pretty soon , so watch out for it .
( Her debut album from 2007 is entitled " My Concience and I " . )
Yeah so , she's dope . Check her out ..
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
NaS
So I walked into my friendly local Sonic Boom record store and of course the first thing I did was scan the new release shelf . There I found the new album from Nasir "Nas" Jones ( which was a pleasant surprise as I had forgotten the actual release date and have been greatly anticipating it ) ; the "Untitled" , "NaS" , or previously named "Nigger" album . I got it for a sweet deal of $11.99 plus tax and am now officially the proud owner of the NaS album .
I've listened to it , and straight up , it's dope .
It's fresh , showing a slightly different , more evolved Nas from the " Illmatic " days , but still has the same originality and style .
One of my favorite songs is " Sly Fox " , because not only is the lyrical content incredible , current and intelligent , but the song itself has great production .
It talks about FOX news and addresses propaganda and politics in a really informed but clever way . His allusions and thinly veiled metaphors and double-meanings dominate the song and make it a really strong , provocative resonant piece .
In it he states :
" Misinformation ,
Pimp the station ,
Over-stimulation ,
Reception
Deception
Comcast digital Satan
The Fox has a bushy tail
and Bush tells
Lies and Foxtrots
So I don't know what's real . "
Yeah , this shit is fuckin ill .
I suggest you go to your local record store and cop .
Because yeah , you could download it or buy it on iTunes , but we all know the best part of an album is opening the plastic case and flipping through the inside cover while listening to it all the way through . And come on , it's less than $20 of your hard-earned paper going to something that's well worth it . Trust me .
The Capitol Hill BLOCK PARTY
So my whole deal on this is .....
who the fuck wants ta buy me tickets ??
I'm most excited for GIRL TALK !!!!! , Common Market , U.S.E. , The Physics , Kimya Dawson and Chromeo .
But I also suggest checking out The Pharmacy , PWRFL POWER , Natalie Portman's Shaved Head , Vampire Weekend , Akimbo , Schoolyard Heroes and Devotchka .
Uh but basically , it's a little on the expensive side but if there's enough acts you wanna check out it's definitely worth it -- it's located right off Bobby Morris , off Broadway around Pike & Pine .
Line up ! :
Friday July 25
King Cobra Stange
4-4.30 Black Whales
5-5.30 The Pharmacy
6-6.45 Truckasaurus
7.15-8 Airborn Toxic Event
8.30-9.15 Champagne Champagne
9.45-10.30 Pleasure Boaters
11-11.45 The Heavy Hearts
12.15-1 Lesbian
Vera Stage
4-4.45 Talbot Tagora
5.15-6 Abe Vigoda
6.30-7.15 Mika Miko
7.45-8.30 PWEFL POWER
9-9.45 Say Hi
10.15-11.15 Natalie Portman's Shaved Head
Neumo's Stage
4-4.30 Black Eyes and Neck Ties
5-5.45 Head Like A Kite
6.15-7 Past Lives
7.45-8.30 The Emergency
9-10 The Dodos
10.30-11.30 Jay Reatard
11.30-3am SING SING AFTER PARTIES FEAT. PASE ROCK , PAUL DEVRO , AND PRETTY TITTY
Main Stage
4.30-5.15 Common Market
5.30-6.15 U.S.E.
6.30-7.15 Menomena
7.45-8.45 Girl Talk
9.15-10.15 Les Savy Fav
10.45-Midnight Vampire Weekend
Saturday July 26
King Cobra Stage
2-2.30 Angelo Spencer
3-3.30 New Faces
4-4.30 The Whore Moans
5-5.30 The Loved Ones
6-6.45 Sleepy Eyes of Death
7.15-8 Voyager One
8.30-9.15 Velella Velella
9.45-10.30 Feral Children
11-11.45 Book of Black Earth
12.15-1 Zeke
Vera Stage
2-2.30 TBA
3-3.45 Little Party & the Big Business
4.15-4.45 The Physics
5.15-6 Man Plus
6.30-7.15 Black Elk
7.45-8.30 Akimbo
9-9.45 Grand Ole Party
10.15-11.15 Schoolyard Heroes
Neumos Stage
2-2.30 Kristen Ward
3-3.30 The Hands
4-4.45 Darker My Love
5.15-6 The Builders and The Butchers
6.30-7.15 Jaguar Love
7.45-8.30 Throw Me the Statue
9-10 Steed Lord
10.30-11.30 Super Secret Special Guests !
11.30-3am SING SING AFTER PARTIES FEAT. CHROMEO DJ Set , FOURCOLORZACK , & PRETTY TITTY
Main Stage
2-2.45 Kay Kay And His Weathered Underground
3.15-4 Cave Singers
4.30-5.30 Kimya Dawson
6-7 Fleet Foxes
7.30-8.30 Chromeo
9-10 The Hold Steady
10.30-Midnight Devotchka
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