You are here: Home / Archives for Breakdown FM

A Dope Emcee & Singer w/ a Revolutionary Spirit; Meet Maimouna ‘Mumu Fresh’ Yousseff

June 22, 2012 By

Baltimore native Maimouna Youssef is a breath of fresh air at a time when far too many are stale with their desire to be good marketers and packagers, reality TV stars or an over-the-top controversial figure vs being a damn good artist.

Because Maimouna who is best known via her nickname Mumu Fresh, stays focused on exploring and highlighting her art as opposed to marketing herself, there are many who are reading this who will note they never heard of her.. That’s ok, its time to get familiar because the sista is no joke.

First you should know she’s a songwriter and producer. Yes, she gets busy behind the boards. Also, she’s a dope singer with a soulful angelic voice.

If that’s not enough she’s nice on the mic as an emcee and will definitely take your lunch money if you step to her wrong in a cipher.. She’s been nominated for a Grammy, Best Rap song for her contribution on the song Don’t feel Right by the Roots.. That’s her you hear flipping the hook.. We thought you knew

Over the years Mumu Fresh has performed and worked with everyone from Nas to Talib Kweli to Big Daddy Kane, Jill Scott, Mos Def, Eryka Badu, Zap Mama, dead prez, and Cody Chestnut to name a few..On top of all that Maimouna ghostwrites for quite a few folks..She’s definitely well respected and sought out by her peers.

Those are just few highlights.. What really shines about this sista is the fact that she comes hard on the cultural and political tip. She doesn’t preach or get all up in your grill telling you how you need to act or what and who you should believe or follow, but her presence is strongly rooted in the tradition of revolution and freedom fighting. You hear that in songs like title track featuring Zap Mama of the Blooming album..or in tracks like Wake Up which takes on Monsanto.

The fact that Maimouna has remained independent by choice speaks volumes about where her head is at. In our interview featured below, she talks about the importance of positioning oneself to have true artistic freedom..With respect to her music, it goes beyond way beyond cheap sloganeering. Its nurturing for both the mind and soul and defies all industry labeling limitation. On her new album the Blooming, you have songs that are rap, songs that are bluesy and others that funk oriented.. Mumu says at the end of the day, its all Black music and as an artist she goes deep and takes us on an incredible journey through all types musical genres connected to the African diaspora.

Listen to our Breakdown FM/ All Day Play interview below w/ Maimouna Youssef

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cw5s0Klmu84

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: 2012 Daily News, Artist Interviews, Breakdown FM Interviews Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Breakdown FM: Checking the Crates for Educated Fools… Episode 66

February 17, 2012 By

 

We had a great set this past week on All Day Play FM..as we continued digging in the crates and playing some great jams spanning all types of soul and funk genres..   We went digging in the crates and kicked things off with a classic joint from Berkeley based Digital Underground affiliated Mod Squad ‘I Want U 2 C‘. Its off the hard to find ‘People’s Park’ album…I wonder what ever happened to those guys, they were way ahead of their time.. They reminded me of Digable Planets keeping in mind I heard them b4 DP..  Rocked another crate digging classic ‘Educated Fool‘ by crooner Billy Storm of the Valiants..Don’t sleep on Mr Storm..

Bronx River Parkway, Ray Barretto and Sound Defects continue to be staples in my most recent playlists.. Nothing beats timeless music.

The highlight for this week was my remix of Jimmy Ruffin‘s classic ‘What’s Become of the Broken Hearted‘.. In this remix we rocked the eulogy for Malcolm X as recited by the late great actor Ozzie Davis..

Finally found good digital copies of former Def Jam acts Downtown Science..featuring Sam Server and Boscoe.. It was a relief to finally rock a few songs of their one and only album that wasn’t on an overplayed, low sounding scratchy vinyl..

Here’s this weeks playlist and link to the show Enjoy

http://www.alldayplay.fm/episodes/episode-65-12

01-Mod Squad  ‘I Want U 2 C’
02- The Bamboos – The Witch
03-South Central Blues Band – Soul Of Bonnie And Clyde
04-The Braceros – Spanish Moss
05-Isaac Clark  – Do The Dog Funk
06-Willie Bobo – Spanish Grease
07-Busta Funk – Black Sugar (High Quality)
08-Bronx River Parkway – Bronx River Parkway El Resbalon
09-Billy storm – The educated fool
10-Ray Barretto – New York Soul (HQ Audio)
11-The Button Down Brass – French Connection
12-Soopasoul – Brand Nu
13-Global Deejays feat. Rozalla – Everybody s free-192
14-Quadrant Six – Body Mechanic
15-Crazy Elephant – Pam Remix
16-Young Holt Unlimited – Young Holt Unlimited – Pusherman
18-Parliaments – The Parliaments-Good Old Music
19-Jimmy Ruffin – What Becomes of the Broken Hearted (Malcolm X remix)
20-Soul Searchers – The Soul Searchers- If it Ain’t Funky (Original Version) .wmv
21-Sound Defects – The Sound Defects – Take Out
22-Black merda – Black Merda — Take A Little Time
23-Menahan Street Band – The Contender
24-Downtown Science – Out There But In There (Instrumental) 1991
25-Downtown Science – Radioactive
26-Immortal Technique – Ultimas Palabras
27-Sir Ibu-The Peacemaker
Filed Under: 2009-Daily Hip Hop News Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Women Rock the Mic and Hold Up half the Sky..Music Mix for Women’s History Month

March 9, 2011 By

Cindy Campbell

In celebration of International Women’s History Month we decided to highlight the voice of many who are often overlooked, taken for granted or forgotten about. Those are our sisters in Hip Hop. Women have always been on point from day one when it comes to architecting this culture called Hip Hop. We can start with Cindy Campbell-the sister of Hip Hop’s father Kool Herc. had it not been for her suggesting and ultimately setting up the now landmark party on 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in August of 1973, we might not be on the mic, yes yes y’alling at all today in 2009.

During the pioneering years we had stellar emcees like Zulu Queen Lisa Lee who was down with Afrika Bambaattaa,Pebbly Poo of the Masterdon Committee and Sha Rock who was down with DJ Baron & Breakout-Funky 4 Plus One More.. Of course we have to tip our hats to the one and only Mercedes Ladies-the first all female Hip Hop Crew.. We have an interview with original member Shari-Shar about to drop real soon-so be on the look out..

Over the years lots of women have blessed the mic and left their mark from Salt-n-Pepa to Roxanne Shante to the Real Roxanne to Queen Latifah to MC Lyte.. The list goes on.. Sadly we’ve had a situation within the music industry that had decided that women artists are not marketable. The conventional wisdom has been that the average listener can’t distinguish their voices. Hence its always been situation where you always find maybe one or two females at most on a major label with them being released and marketed at different times.

Of course here at Breakdown FM, we see it differently. There’s a world of difference between MC Lyte and Queen Latifah, just like there’s a world of difference between Chuck D and KRS or 50 Cent and Ice Cube. Different looks, rhyme styles, subject matter etc. So much for industry wisdom

This week we went and dug deep and highlighted some folks you need to check for.. We kick things off with Seattle sensations Canary Sing and their dope new song ‘Heroines‘. We proceed their cut with a short tribute to Shirley Chisolm who kicked down the doors for both Jesse Jackson and Barack Obama-She was the first to run for President back in ’72 around the birth of Hip Hop.

Also out of the Emrald City which has plethora of female emcees. To be honest we could’ve done a 25 Joints just with Seattle women-that’s how deep they’re rolling. Artists like Toni Hill, Felicia Loud, Southern Komfort, Sis Moni Tep, beyond Reality, Christina Orbe are just a few of the many. On this 25 Joints, we feature DJ B-Girl and her cut ‘Murder She Wrote‘ featuring Julie C and Sister Hailstorm. We also have pioneering emcee Laura ‘Piece’ Kelley and her classic song ‘Soundwave‘.

Queen Nasim

Right next door to Seattle is Portland which has a wealth of talent in the form of groups like Siren’s Echo. We featured Queen Nasim who has been doing her thing for minute with a song called ‘I’m Original’. It has that old school sound and feel. Because of Seattle and the NW’s deepness in talent we’ll probably have to do pt2 on the all female 25 Joints. So stay tuned.

The midwest came hard as we drop gems from artists like Invincible out of Detroit with her song ‘Regonize‘. her album ‘Shape Shifters’ is what Hip Hop should really be about. We have Nefertiti and with her slamming joint ‘Addicted‘ and San Jose transplant to Grand Rapids Brazen who has a wonderful spoken word song called ‘Grand Plight‘. Not to be missed isTMD who we’ll have to highlight next go round.

Also out the midwest and holding down Minneapolis is Maria Isa who we featured last year. Her piano laden Latin flavored joint ‘Die Not Kill‘ is pure butter.

Lastly we have Chicago native Lah Tere from the group Rebel Diaz. She’s currently working on a solo project. She laced us with a head nodding cut called ‘You Are‘

Mystic blessed us with an exclusive cut that will be a cornerstone to her upcoming album bearing the same title ‘Beautiful Resistance‘. This Grammy nominated artists has serious fire and deep insights to our minds and souls. Don’t sleep on her.

In the same vein is Pittsburgh native Kellee Maize who recently was cited as one of the best in the city that now calls itself ‘Sixburgh’ because of the Steelers 6 Superbowl wins. Last year Kellee hit us over the dome with an album called ‘Age of Feminine‘that centered on Women’s empowerment and spirituality She returns with a new song called ‘Third Eye‘ which takes us deeper.

Chuck D of Public Enemy has been backing an all female crew called Crew Grrrl Order. They came hard with a new song that pays tribute to the First Lady Michele Obama. Longtime producer Johnny Juice does a nice remix which accenuates these sister’s flows and lets us know that they will be around for a minute. he also gets busy cutting in excerpts from Michelle Obama

Mystic

Like Seattle the Bay Area comes deep with female talent. We have Mystic who we highlighted along with Jennifer Johnswho is on fire. The Conscious Daughters of course who we’ll feature on pt 2 are the best known names. But the Bay has a lot of folks like Aya De Leon, Joyo Verlarde, Kofy Brown, Goapele are just a few of the other names that are stellar in talent and presence.

On this 25 Joints we bring the spot light to Queen Deelah who comes out of East Oakland the the Silence the Violence Movement. She’s part of a larger collective of artists who have dedicated themselves and Hip Hop to stopping the carnage that plagues the mean streets of Oakland. Deelah’s song ‘Mind Yours‘ is dope and captures that vintage Bay sound.

Another up and coming talent starting to make noise is Kenyanna Bean. Her new song ‘Good Wit Me‘ is also popping. Like Queen Deelah Kenyanna is also out there making noise in the community trying to make a difference. Big shout out toSimone Nia Rae who could’ve also been on this episode if we had more space. She too is also a part of the new school of Bay talent. Her new song ‘Jealousy‘ has been featured on local radio stations in nearby Stockton. We’ll be rocking her in upcoming 25 Joints.

Jean Grae

As we close out we’d be remissed not to acknowledge the Queens from the Big Apple who are seriously on point. If you never heard of Tiye Phoenix you’re slipping. her joint ‘Nicewitis‘ lives up to its name. When her project finally drops, I guarante she’ll be turning Hip Hop upside down. She’s joined by Jean Grae which whom no all female showcase would be complete without her in the building. Grae can do no wrong when she touches the mic. Her song Supa Jean makes you wonder why people have been overlooking her.

Eve, Queen Latifah Isis aka Lin Que hold us down with some classic joints from their catalogue. We also have a dope joint from Hip Hop MC Lyte produced by DJ Premier called ‘Wonder Years‘. That song which dropped in 07 is vintage on Breakdown FM. Medusa is also a pioneering figure from the west coast who is still snatching heads when she gets on the mic. She’s blesses us with a new song called ‘Cali Fame‘ which proves that assertion.

Zulu Queen Rha Goddess and Sarah Jones show us just how potent spoken word can get. The lyrics to the songs ‘Revolution‘ and ‘Immaculate Conception‘ will make a whole lot of artists step up their lyric game.

Catch this weeks show by clicking the link below:

Press here to listen to pt of our four part series:

01-Canary Sings ‘Heroines’ (Seattle)
02-Kellee Maize ‘Third Eye’ (Pittsburgh)
03-Isis ‘Rebel Song’ (NY)
04-Jean Grae ‘Supa Jean’ (NY)
05-Eve ‘Life Is So Hard’ (NY)
06-Mystic ‘Beautiful Resistant’ (Bay Area/ LA)
07-Laura ‘Piece’ Kelly ‘Soundwave’ (Seattle)
08-Nefertiti ‘Addicted’ (Grand Rapids, Mi)
09-DJ Vadim w/ Sarah Jones ‘Revolution’ (NY)
10-DJ B Girl w/ Sista Hailstorm & Julie C ‘Murder She Wrote’ (Seattle)
11-Queen Latifah ‘Latifah had It Up To Here’ (NY)
12-Rha Goddess ‘Immaculate Conception’ (NY)
13-Rocky Rivera ‘Go There’
14-Cihuatle Ce ‘Dreamaah’15-J Ross Panelle Queendom
16-Invincible ‘Recognize’ (Detroit)
17-Crew Grrrl Order ‘Official First Lady (Johnny Juice Remix)
18-Macy Gray w/ Mos Def “I Committed Murder’ (gang Star rmx)
19-Tiye Phoenix ‘Nicewitis’ (NY)
20-Mala Rodriguez ‘Ajierro’ (Spain)
21-Queen Deelah ‘Mind Yours’ (Oakland)
22-Bernice King & Sister Souljah meet the Rhondo Brothers (interlude)
23-Medusa ‘Cali Fame’ (LA)
24-Jennifer John ‘Painting on Wax’ (Bay Area)
25-Queen Nasim ‘I’m original’ w/ Rosa Clemente (Portland)
26-Maria Isa ‘Die Not Kill’ (Minneapolis)
27-Lah Tere ‘You Are’ (Chicago/NY)
28-Brazen ‘Grand Rapid’ (San Jose/ Grand Rapid)
29-Kenyanna Bean ‘Good Wit Me’ (Oakland)
30-J Ross Panelle ‘Hey There Sister (Reno)
31-Antia Tijoux ‘Crisis un de MC (Chile)
32-Hopispitshard The Trunk’
33-Psalm One ‘Let Me Hear’

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Filed Under: 2009-Daily Hip Hop News Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Chicago Rapper Rhymefest puts his Hat in the Arena-He’s Running for Alderman

October 21, 2010 By

Its official Rhymefest is running for Alderman in Chicago's 20th Ward-Click HERE to listen to our Breakdown FM Interview

Can a Grammy award-winning artist who co-wrote the hit song ‘Jesus Walks’ for Kanye West have success in the political arena of one of the roughest cities to run for office? This is what Che Smith better known as Rhymefest will find out during the 2011 election cycle.

Today (Thursday Sept 21 2010) Rhymefest will hold a press conference in Chicago to officially announce his bid for Alderman in the 20th ward which includes parts of Chicago’s Southside, Englewood and Woodlawn. The area has a number of nagging problems ranging from crumbling schools to violence.  He  noted its one of the most violent neighborhoods in the city and is in need of serious healing, solutions,  fresh perspectives and new leadership that is on the same page as  the residents.

During our Breakdown FM interview Rhymefest noted that Chicago has long been a political town where things are rough and tumble and very  much in your face.  Say what you will about New York, the reality about ‘The Chi’ is if you make it there politically speaking, you make it anywhere.

He continued by noting  Chicago is a city that historically has prided itself on having strong organization. The way the city has long operated was not by who you are?, but instead who are you down with? and what do you all do?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lb0kccG-la8&feature=player_embedded

He said one of the challenges that has faced folks residing in the 20th ward and in many places throughout society is that there is now a lot of disorganized leaders, ministers and politicians which has resulted in disorganized communities. Rhymefest wants to change that. He noted that over the past few years there have been some high-profile incidents of corruption which has contributed to the disenchantment that many have with  ‘disorganized’ leadership. He said some of the long time leaders who have lost their way in doing so have created opportunities for new blood and new approaches to enter into the arena and be more accountable.

Rhymefest wants to bring about increased cooperation and open up the democratic process as Alderman

Fest noted that his bid should not be seen as someone  trying to get into office on name recognition or celebrity status. He explained in great detail during our recent interview the types of steps he intends to take to move his community forward. He has a concept called AIM.. which stands for address, implement and maximize. He said with each problem confronting the community he and his team plan to Address them.. Implement solution s and Maximize resources.

Rhymefest believes that many of the solutions facing the 20th Ward lie within the residents.  What needs to happen is opportunities for them to be part of the governing process should be made available and people should have a richer sense of ownership and better opportunities to weigh in on key issues.

In our interview Rhymefest lays out the plans he has to make this happen. He wants the community to be run like a Co-op.  On key issues that involve spending and allocation of resources, he wants the community to be able to vote on it versus having someone go in and get caught up cuddling with special interests and outside forces.  His job as alderman is to facilitate and implement the solutions the community puts forth.

Come 2011 the Windy City will garner the national spotlight not only because Rhymefest is in the race, but also  former White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel is vying for Mayor’s seat now vacated by long time incumbent Richard Daley who recently stepped down…This should be a contest full of fireworks because Rahm is a take s no prisoners type of guy who recently held a fundraiser in Hollywood and will no doubt use his influence to have lot of big name people come into Chicago to stomp for him.

Rhymefest’s announcement has caused quite a stir with many within the music industry wanting to come out and stomp for him. The line up and camaraderie he has amongst Chicago’s Hip Hop community is formidable.  From Lupe Fiasco to Kanye West and beyond, iIf Che is able to inspire his folks politically the way he does with his music the Windy City is gonna be on fiya.

Below is a link to pt1 of our interview. Take a close listen because Rhymefest lays out a lot of info about what he plans on doing and why. We will post up pt2 on Friday.

http://www.swift.fm/mrdaveyd/song/73205/ pt1

Return to Davey D’s Hip Hop Corner

Filed Under: 2009-Daily Hip Hop News Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Breakdown FM Interview w/ Hip Hop Legends Kid-N-Play: From Their Rapping Days and Beyond

August 20, 2010 By

Click HERE to Listen to Breakdown FM interview w/ Hip Hop Legends Kid-n-Play

http://www.alldayplay.fm/episodes/episode-29-kid-n-play

We caught up with Hip Hop legends and long time friends Chris Reed and Chris Martin aka Kid-N-Play who were the surprised guest for a special taping of Jamie Foxx’s Foxhole Comedy Tour in Sacramento and the debut of a new film company No Brainer. Foxx had an all-star line up of comedians and athletes ranging from Kevin Hart to Ron Artest to Danny Glover to Lloyd and with each appearance the crowd went nuts. However, the biggest applause went to Kid-N-Play who took the stage with a vengeance and reminded folks just how fun Hip Hop.

They dropped a bevy of classic songs and ended it by doing their trademark kick step dance routine which wasn’t a bad feat considering Play has titanium rods in his leg and ankle from an accident he suffered a few years ago while walking his dog named ‘Girlfriend‘. In fact lets clear up this crazy rumor that folks have heard. Play broke his leg when his dog chased another dog and got the leash entangled in his leg causing him to take a nasty spill. People heard the word Girlfriend and erroneously concluded that his mishap was the result of some sort of domestic abuse thing. It was nothing of a kind-not even close.

We sat down with the duo and covered a wide range of topics. We talked about their movie careers and the significance of the House Party film series. Many of us note that it those films opened the doors for rappers who made their way into acting and later producing and directing. In short Queen Latifah, Will Smith, Ice Cube and many others owe a bit of gratitude to Kid-N-Play. It’s interesting to note the roles Kid-N-Play did was written for Will Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXEsSrmabA0

Comedian Martin lawrence is one of the many stars who was part of the House Party series

The pair talked about the many legendary entertainers who they worked with and came through House Party including the late comedian Robin Harris, Martin Lawrence and Tisha Campbell. There’s been talk of reviving the series with a whole new cast. We’ll keep you posted as to how that unfolds.

They also talked about the enormous talent that is coming up from today’s generation of artists especially along the dance tip. Kid noted that he was impressed with the ways folks have flipped things.

We talked about Kid’s comedy career and how he made the transition from rapper to stand up.

Play who had the dubious distinction of being kicked out of 5 different high schools while coming up in New York, today is teaching college courses on two different campuses in North Carolina.  One of his classes he teamed with producer 9th Wonder who now teaches his own Hip Hop culture class. Play also noted that he’s been filming and doing documentaries. He noted that there’s a big void in relevent and intelligent news stories for folks in the hood and he’s been trying to fill that void with his own project Brand Newz.

Return to Davey D’s Hip Hop Corner

Filed Under: 2010 Daily News, Essential videos to peep, Life style articles, Southern Shift Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Breakdown FM:Giving You The News from Arizona Dedicated to Arizona Mix

July 29, 2010 By

Click HERE to Listen to Podcast

Today we wanna remind everyone of the screwed up law that went into effect in Arizona. We’re talking SB1070 and regardless how you may feel about immigration, the purpose of this law is not to stop folks from coming in this country. Its designed to make lots of money for the private prisons which are publicly traded and further the political careers of the far right Neo-Nazi wing nuts who crafted it. People think that the law will somehow catch lots of undocumented folks hanging out in Arizona and no doubt there will be some that are caught.

However, the way the law will work is that police will look for the slightest infractions to pull you over and start jamming you up. At which point they’ll check to see not only if you are a US citizen, but will also check for everything else. This is on top of the slight infraction they stopped you for in the first place. It’s a page taken right off the policy used by former NY Mayor Rudolph Giuliani. His tactic was called the Broken Window theory. He felt if you attack the small problems the bigger ones will disappear.  In other words jam up people for minor infractions and it will make it too difficult to do something major. Most law enforcement folks say it doesnt work and it only leads to mass arrests because it becomes a numbers game.. hence the economic benefit to private prisons in Arizona. 

Lastly because the major criticim to SB 1070 is that it will leasd to racial profiling, in order not to appear bias, expect Arizona police to start jamming up everyone if for any reason just to prove the point that they are being even handed.  They may use the excuse that an American citizen is harboring undocumented folks. There’s no doubt that after attending the ACLU Roundtables on Government informants that the police will use the tactic of stopping US citizens on small infractions and in ezxchange for letting them go ask for the names of  suspected undocumented folks  which will allow them to make the case tbhat they had ‘reasonable suspicion’.  We dedicate todays show to those who are on the frontlines fighting SB 1070.

Click the link below to HEAR the show

http://www.alldayplay.fm/episodes/episode-26-give-you-news-arizona-part-1

01-Davey D- ‘Dedicated to Arizona Speech mix’

02-Olmeca-‘Piece of Me’

03-Click tha Super Latin ‘Get Live’ rmx

04-Ozamatli ‘Eva’

05-Antibalas ‘Battle of the Species’ (Al Sharpton rmx)

06-Kenna ‘Games You Can Win’

07-Labtekwon ‘Break It Down’

08-Dessa ‘Chacone’

09-Menahan Street Band ‘Tired of Fighting’

10-Deuce Eclipse ‘Mi Viejo’

11-Sharon & the Dap Kings ‘Stop Paying Taxes’

12-Word Burgular ‘The Route’

13-Brand New Heavies ‘I Don’t Know Why I Love You’

14-Brand New Heavies ‘We Can’t Stop’

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5s8jgZUgGpg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJik5-GMF4M

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9PY56OqtL64&feature=related

Return to Davey D’s Hip Hop Corner

Filed Under: 2010 Daily News, Political articles, Southern Shift Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Breakdown FM on All day Play radio Our Tribute to Guru of Gang Starr

April 27, 2010 By

Last week we lost an icon.. Keith Elam aka Guru. He was a friend who I’ve known for almost 20 years. He was more rthan just a rapper with nice flows or a unique voice. He was a cat with keen insight and sense of history. My fear is that Guru will be underrated until a future generation re-discovers his music and appreciates how far ahead of the curve he was.. The songs we played last week don’t even began to scratch the surface.. Enjoy

-Davey D- 

Click HERE to Download & Listen to Breakdown FM Guru Podcast

 

http://www.alldayplay.fm/episodes/memories-legends-days-gone-by

PLAYLIST:

01-Funkdoobiest ‘Dedicated’

02-Guru ‘For You’

03-Guru w/ Omar ‘JazzStyle’

04-Gang Starr w/ Jodeci ‘Royalty’

05-Gang Starr ‘Alongwaytogo’

06-Gang Starr w/ Big Shug & Freddie Foxx ‘The Militia’

07-Gang Starr ‘Step Into the Arena’

08-Gang Starr ‘Mass Appeal’

09-Malcolm X ‘BVallot or the Bullet’

10-Gang Starr ‘Who Got Gunz’

11-Gang Starr ‘Mostly the Voice’

12-Guru ‘Sights of the City’

13-Guru w/ Styles P ‘Don Status’

14-Gang Starr ‘Speak Ya Clout’

15-Davey D Old School Mega Mix’

16-Raekwon ‘Ice Cream

17-Gang Starr ‘Riot Akt’

18-Gang Starr ‘Peace of Mine’

19-Gang Starr ‘FALA

20-Gang Starr ‘Blowin’ Up the Spot’

21-Gang Starr ‘Words I Manifest’

22-Gang Starr ‘Full Clip’

23-Gang Starr ‘Words from the Nutcracker’

24-Gang Starr ‘Code of the Streets’

25-Gang Starr w/ Tony Touch ‘The Piece Maker’

26-Guru, Marcy Gray w/ Mos Def ‘I Committed Murder’

27-Gang Starr ‘I Know My Steeze’

28-Gang Starr w/Kurupt, ‘Lady of Rage ‘I know My Steez’

29-Guru ‘Looking ‘Through Darkness’

30-Guru w/Vivian Green ‘Fine and Free’

31-Guru ‘Lost Souls’

32-Guru w/ Brownman ‘Universal Struggle’

33-Guru ‘Who’s There’

34-Gang Starr ‘Street Ministry’

Filed Under: 2009-Daily Hip Hop News, Breakdown FM Interviews Tagged With: , , , , ,

Chuck D & Funk Expert Rickey Vincent Speak on the Music & Political Legacy of Michael Jackson & the Jackson 5

July 6, 2009 By

daveydbanner

Share/Save/Bookmark//

logo-History-of-funk-Jackso

Listen to the History of Funk pt 1-retrospective look at Michael Jackson & the Jackson 5

1-Breakdown FM-History of Funk pt1-Michael jackson & the Jackson 5

2-Breakdown FM-History of Funk pt2-w/Chuck D How MJ influenced Hip Hop & Politics

 
Professor Rick Vincent-author of History of Funk drops a lot of insight about the musical legacy of Michael Jackson and his brothers

Professor Rick Vincent-author of History of Funk drops a lot of insight about the musical legacy of Michael Jackson and his brothers

Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 are considered steller musicians and entertainers who changed the game in major ways. Oftentimes when we speak of them they are presented as if they came out of nowhere and their musical prowess came out of a vacuum. We wanted to give people some deeper insight into their music and what it meant to Soul, Funk and the Black community.

We sat down with Professor Ricky Vincent aka the Uhuru Maggot, author of the landmark book The History of Funk. We sat down and walked through the history of MJ and the Jacksons and talked in depth about their influences ranging from James Brown to Stevie Wonder. We talked in depth about their roots including how MJ and his brothers grew up in Gary, Indiana. We talked about the important role Gary played in Black America, both in terms of having one of the country’s first African American mayors and the 1972 meeting by Black folks to set a nationwide agenda.

We talked about their father Joe Jackson and who he is and how he spent alot of childhood and teenage years in Oakland, California. Vincent talked about the vibrant blues scene that was in full gear when Joe jackson was around in West Oakland and how that may have been a foundation for his musical ambitions.

We spoke about Michael Jackson and his dancing history. We talked about his signature moves ‘The Robot’, The Moonwalk and locking and noted how these were popular dance styles well known in various hoods throughout California for years prior to Michael introducing them to the rest of the world.

We talked about the struggles the group had when MJ’s voice changed and how Motown executives wanted them to follow a particular pop formula while the group pushed to establish a new sound that was more soulful, funky and contemporary. Eventually the tension became so great that the group left Motown and joined Epic. Because Motown owned the name The Jackson 5, the group changed their name to The Jacksons. Complicating their situation even more was the fact that older brother Jermaine married Berry Gordy’s daughter hence he went on to stay at Motown and do a solo career.

We talk about the influence James Brown had on Michael and how he went out and pretty much adapted much of Brown’s delivery, showmanship and overall style. We explore the music from that time period in the mid 70s and note how the group found themselves under the gun as they tried to keep up with icons like Stevie Wonder, George Clinton, Sly Stone, BT Express and an array of ‘child groups like the Sylvers who had bursted on the scene and were hitting hard.

Ricky reminded us of how George Clinton and his p-funk mob were in Detroit recording songs and that their style and influence was definitely felt. because he was connecting with the hood, the Jacksons were forced to step it up and become alittle more raw with their music.

We end this segment by highlighting the various musical directions the group took.

Here’s the link to part1

Breakdown FM-History of Funk pt1-Michael jackson & the Jackson 5

———————————————————————————–

Chuck D spoke about Michael Jackson's political side and how he influenced his love for Hip Hop

Chuck D spoke about Michael Jackson's political side and how he influenced his love for Hip Hop

In pt 2 we are joined by Chuck D of Public Enemy where we have an indepth discussion about MJ and his politics and how Chuck was introduced to Hip Hop via Mike.

Chuck talks about the important role legendary songwriters Gamble & Huff played in pushing Mike and his brothers. Author Ricky Vincent talks about how the message in the music is part of a much larger tradition within Black music.

Chuck D also talks about how some of Michael Jackson’s records which were used as breakbeats influenced him and made him embrace Hip hop more. In particular is the vintage cut ‘Music’s Taking Over’. Chuck also talks about the sample they used from MJ in the song By The Time I get to Arizona.

Chuck also talks about the important influence Michael Jackson had in the realm of videos.

We play lots of Jackson’s political songs as well as the cuts that inspired Chuck D.

We conclude the interview by talking about MJs War with Sony Music and Tommy Mottola, his charitable works and the importance of being named the King of Pop.

Here’s the link to pt 2

Breakdown FM-History of Funk pt2-w/Chuck D How MJ influenced Hip Hop & Politics

Return to Davey D’s Hip Hop Corner

Filed Under: 2009-Daily Hip Hop News, Breakdown FM Interviews, Political articles, Southern Shift Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

25 Joints to Get U Thru the Day-Michael Jackson-My Forever Came Today

June 28, 2009 By

daveydbanner

logo-25joints-MichaelJackso

Share/Save/Bookmark//

25 Joints-My Forever Came Today
by Davey D

In the aftermath of the death of the best entertainer the world has ever known, we decided to go digging deep into our archives and present you with some gems that will bring a tear to your eye and yearning in your heart. Too many people are stuck on Thriller and Off the Wall and while they are indeed dope albums, there was a reason why Michael Jackson was such an engaging force prior to those releases. There was a reason why the King of Pop was loved all over the world and why musicians were always in awe of him..Michael Jackson had soul-serious soul. I’m talking they type of soul that sent chills down your spine and moved you to tears. We found some of those gems for this week’s 25 Joints..Starting w/ the classic ‘My Forever Came Today’ to ‘Maria’ to ‘Reflections’ to ‘Hum and Dance’ and ‘I am Love’ just to name a few.

Click Link Below to Listen to 25 Joints on Breakdown FM

Breakdown FM-25 Joints-Michael Jackson-
My Forever Came Today

Enjoy and RIP Michael Jackson

Here’s the playlist

01-My Forever Came Today

02-Looking through the Windows

03-Life of the Party

04-It’s Great to Be Here

05-Maria

06-Mama’s Pearl

07-We’re Almost There

08-Melodie

09-You Can Cry or My Shoulder

10-The Wall

11-Mama I Got a Brand New Thing

12-I’m am Love

13-Man of War

14-Reach In

15-Refelctions

16-Never Can Say Goodbye

17-I’ll Bet You

18-Hum and Daqnce

19-Dancing Machine

20-Music’s Taking Over

21-Young Kids

22-Sing a Simple Song

23-Ain’t No Sunshine

24-Greatest Show on Earth

25-Maybe Tomorrow

Return to Davey D’s Hip Hop Corner

Filed Under: 2009-Daily Hip Hop News, Breakdown FM Interviews, Southern Shift Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Reverend Jeremiah Wright’s Original Speech where he said ‘God Damn America’

June 17, 2009 By

daveydbanner

Share/Save/Bookmark//

Since Reverend Jeremiah Wright had recently been in the news, we figured we’d pull out the original speech that put him in the media spotlight. 

This is the 2003 sermon in its entirety that pretty much set things off and cast long time Chicago pastor Jeremiah Wright in a bad-light. Its the sermon where he says ‘GodDamn America’ and talks about Aids and the Government. His words are very powerful..When you hear this sermon you will see just how much they distorted his words. You will also see just how a what Rev Wright said could be taken the wrong way… click link below to hear speech

Breakdown FM: Reverend Jeremiah Wright-
Confusing God w/ Government

After hearing the orginal speech where Reverend Wright said 'God Damn America' should President Obama have distanced himself from what was an incredible speech?

After hearing the orginal speech where Reverend Wright said 'God Damn America' should President Obama have distanced himself from what was an incredible speech?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Return to Davey D’s Hip Hop Corner

Filed Under: 2009-Daily Hip Hop News, Breakdown FM Interviews Tagged With: , , , , , ,
« Previous Page
Next Page »