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Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Snoop Dogg Debuts 'Peaches N Cream,' Confirmed as SXSW 2015 Keynote Speaker
Snoop Dogg is back with “Peaches N Cream,” a new song that will make you feel like it’s already the weekend.
The beat sounds similar to the sounds of New York City in the ’80s instead of the rapper’s signature West Coast vibe, which might be thanks to the production skills of Pharrell Williams. Either way, it’s that lighthearted party feel that Snoop usually conveys — something we’ve missed from him. “Peaches N Cream” finds Snoop eying a girl at the party. She’s got the looks, the moves and loves to get everyone’s attention, including Snoop’s.
“Uh oh there she goes / There’s that look all on her face / Shorty dancing like she knows / She’s the baddest in the place,” he sings after the chorus.
Charlie Wilson is also featured on the track — making it another collaboration for these two. The first one was on “Infectious,” which was released in January. Aside from that track, this is the first new material we’ve heard from Uncle Snoop in some time.
The song premiered on iHeartRadio stations across all genres today (March 10) and was also accompanied by a vivid and colorful animated lyric video by Wolf & Crow. “Peaches N Cream” is the first single off his long-awaited new record, BUSH, which is set to release on May 12 via Columbia Records — this is his first LP on the label.
Even though the album drops in a couple of months, fans who pre-order BUSH will instantly receive the single. You can pre-order your copy here.
In anticipation for the new album, Snoop is confirmed to be the keynote speaker at SXSW in Austin, Texas this year. Free for all Music and Platinum SXSW badge holders as well as showcase artists, the speech will take place on March 20 at the Austin Convention Center. Arrive by 11AM to witness the Doggfather speak about his lauded career that includes everything from music to movies to non-profit work. In the past, Dave Grohl, Bruce Springsteen and Lady Gaga were all chosen to be keynote speakers.
Watch Snoop Dogg’s ‘Peaches N Cream’ Lyric Video
See 10 Most Anticipated Rap Albums of 2015
The Roots Picnic 2015 Lineup Features Erykah Badu, the Weekend, A$AP Rocky + More
The beloved hip-hop band the Roots will headline the 8th Annual Roots Picnic alongside Erykah Badu (backed by the Illadelph band), the Weekend and A$AP Rocky. The annual event will take place on May 30 at Philadelphia’s Festival Pier.
The festival’s bill boasts an eclectic lineup that includes Afrika Bambaataa, Rae Sremmurd, DJ Mustard, Chronixx and Bishop Nehru. On the R&B and soul side, there’s Aussie soulsters Hiatus Kaiyote, Hudson Mohawke, Brianna Cash and Donn T, who is Questlove’s sister.
“I think this is one of our most diverse lineups to date,” Questlove tells Billboard. “I am looking forward to seeing the discovery process. That is what excites me each year. Seeing someone who bought a ticket for one act, discover the music of an unexpected artist. I’m sure there will be some A$AP Rocky fans that will dig Hiatus Kaiyote or some Weeknd fans that will discover Chronixx and vice versa.”
Early bird tickets go on pre-sale this Thursday (March 12) from noon to midnight for $45+ at Ticketmaster.com. General public tickets will be available on Friday (March 13) at Rootspicnic.com. Don’t sleep on this because tickets will sell out quick.
Last year, Snoop Dogg headlined the Roots Picnic and brought out Doug E. Fresh for a special rendition of the Slick Rick classic “La Di Da Di.”
10 Music Milestones From Great Black Artists
Watch Snoop Dogg & Doug E. Fresh Perform “La Di Da Di” at 2014 Roots Picnic
The Weeknd Enters The Boombox Battle Hall of Fame
Congratulations to the Weeknd! After dominating the Boombox Battle each week with his track, “Where You Belong,” and winning four consecutive rounds, he is now the newest member of the Boombox Battle Hall of Fame.
Known for his sexually-charged tunes, the Weeknd brings us yet another one, which appears on the Fifty Shades of Grey film soundtrack. The sensual ballad recounts his desires in the bedroom. And although he does the same on tracks like “Often” and “Earned It,” he further proves that you can sing about sex in so many ways and have them sound very different.
“I’m in control when you give me your body (yeah) / I feel our souls burning up when I’m inside of you / And I’ma leave a mark just to remind you where you belong, baby,” he croons.
The Weeknd’s battle journey started by going against Jodeci, who won the battle prior. After gaining over 79 percent of the votes, he then garnered 92 percent of the fan vote he battled Chris Brown & Tyga’s “Ayo.” And although Common and John Legend won just about every award for their song, “Glory,” it just wasn’t enough to beat The Weeknd in this battle. Weeknd finally sealed the deal and his entrance into the Hall of Fame when he went up against “Ratchet Commandments” by rapper and singer Tink.
The Weekend joins Fetty Wap, Chris Brown, Tinashe, Michael Jackson, Trey Songz, Lil Durk and T-Pain in The Boombox Battle Hall of Fame.
10 Facts You Probably Didn't Know About 'Empire'
Next to Shonda Rhimes’ Thursday night TV takeover with Scandal, there’s no question that Danny Strong and Lee Daniels’ Empire is a hit. Currently sitting with over 14.3 million viewers, the show continues to gain new fans each week. Whether it’s Lucious Lyon’s cutthroat business demeanor and disdain for his sons’ outrageous personalities or Cookie Lyon’s I’m-that-bitch mentality, viewers can’t seem to get enough of Fox’s must-see hip-hopera.
With an all-star cast and ongoing celebrity appearances, Empire fans are itching for star-studded exclusives and info about the show. But what if we told you there’s more to the 60-minute Wednesday night soap opera than the usual celebrity gossip? Fans may love Lucious and Cookie, but Taraji P. Henson and Terrence Howard have a history that some loyal viewers may not know. And according to show co-creator Daniels, Lucious and Cookie wouldn’t even be sharing the screen if it weren’t for Taraji. She told the producer if Howard wasn’t involved, then she wouldn’t be either.
So if you’re a fiend for the music business drama each week, The Boombox is here to up your Empire knowledge. Here are 10 Facts You Probably Didn’t Know About ‘Empire.’ It may be a different network, but we’re just saying, #TheMoreYouKnow.
1
This Isn't Terrence & Taraji's first rodeo together.
If Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson look like they share some serious chemistry on camera, chances are it's because this isn't their first onscreen project together.
The two first crossed paths on set 10 years ago while working on Paramount Pictures' Oscar-winning film, Hustle & Flow, in 2015. They collaborated through a musical soundboard, letting the world know "it's hard out here for a pimp when he tryin' to get this money for the rent."
Two months later, Empire's most captivating couple found themselves working together on another Paramount set: Four Brothers.
2
Wesley Snipes was originally slated to play Lucious.
Terrence Howard may the face of television's most prosperous hip-hop mogul, but had it not been for a friendly referral, Wesley Snipes would be the bad ass viewers know as Lucious Lyon.
Lee Daniels revelead his initial interest in Snipes for the role during the 2015 Winter TCA Press Tour. The Butler director let fans and media know that his pick for Empire's leading character changed after Taraji said she would only play Cookie if Terrence Howard was given the Lucious role.
"Taraji says, 'I really want to do this role with Terrence Howard,' and I was like, 'You ain't got the job yet,'" said Daniels. "And then, I was like, 'Danny [Strong], that's Cookie!'" Then Taraji jumped in to validate Daniels' story. "I was like, 'Lee, this is an incredible project. I think Cookie is amazing. I would love to play her. If you can get Terrence, I'm all about it. If not, good luck with the project!'"
Fredrick M Brown, Getty Images/Jason Merritt, Getty Images
3
Bryshere Gray was offered the role of Hakeem after a FaceTime audition.
With technology and social media on a rapid climb, it's rare to get surprised with things these days. But have you ever heard of someone acquiring an acting role via FaceTime? Well, it just might be possible that Bryshere Gray can say he's the first.
Before Empire's executive producer, Brian Grazer, would give the okay to officially bring Bryshere on as the youngest Lyon brother, Hakeem, he said he needed to see him rap on FaceTime first.
"In order to sign off, I said I want to see him on FaceTime," Grazer said.
It's no secret Gray is first a rapper then an actor, but in this case, it looks like producers needed him to prove his rhyming talents on camera -- even if it was on a 5.5-inch HD retina display.
4
Terrence Howard was forced to change his perm after the pilot.
According to Lee Daniels, Terrence Howard was looking to channel his inner Prince and James Brown when he arrived on set to film the show's pilot episode. He wore a teased blowout that was slicked back with a light scoop of non-stick gel. The award-winning director wasn't fond of Howard's 'do, but he told E! News he was swayed when the Chicago-born actor said the look paid homage.
"He was like, ‘Oh well, you know, it's like Prince'," said Daniels. "'He's sort of stuck in Prince land and he's sort of like James Brown, that sort of thing.' And just for a quick second, he got me," the director explained.
But Howard's power of persuasion didn't last long because Daniels quickly made Terrence change his hair style just in time for the filming of the second episode.
FOX
5
Cookie pulls her wardrobe right from Timbaland's wife's closet.
There's no doubt that Cookie Lyon has a fierce sense of fashion. From her designer dresses to her glammed-up footwear to luscious furs, the music mogul makes sure her style reflects her personality. But who knew the majority of Cookie's clothing comes straight from the closet of Monique Mosley. Timbaland's wife, who has serves as Empire's script consultant, lends her some of wardrobe to Taraji so she can get into character perfectly.
Monique was originally added to the show's crew by association as Timbaland's business manager, and eventually, script consultant. According to the New York Post, as Lee Daniels watched Mrs. Mosley move like a boss, all while looking flawless in the process, he proclaimed her to be the real life Cookie.
“When Lee saw me, he would say, ‘Oh my God, you are Cookie!’” Monique told The Post. “‘Your fashion sense and business savvy, it’s all Cookie.’ In his head, I was exactly how he had envisioned her character.”
As Monique watches Taraji rock items from her closet to epitomize Cookie, she wonders why she's not using more of her own clothes. “At the dinner scene at Lucious’ house where she stands up to speak, Cookie wore a Gucci dress and shoes that were my own, but that I had never actually worn,” Monique says. “Now I’m wondering why!”
6
Columbia released the first single to come from 'Empire' on iTunes to create a buzz.
When Fox announced its new hip-hop-based TV show, potential viewers weren't sure what to think, especially with unnamed talent involved. So to help build the show's hype and prove the music delivery would be worth viewers' while, Columbia Records released the show's first single, "No Apologies," on iTunes. “We wanted to give people an idea of what’s coming,” says Shawn Holiday, Columbia Records' senior VP of A&R.
Now, fans are reciting lyrics and watching the show's stars reach musical success on and off the camera. In fact, Jussie Smollett (Jamal) recently landed a record deal with Columbia, and is gearing up for the release of his first album.
“There will be a Jussie Smollett album," Smollett told Entertainment Weekly. "I signed to Columbia. So darling [laughs] I’m label mates with Beyonce and Adele and Barbra Streisand!"
7
Jim Beanz is responsible for much of the show's music.
While Timbaland is praised for the music behind Empire's success as the show's executive music producer, Jim Beanz is the songwriter and lyricist responsible for the tracks fans can't help but play on repeat.
Beanz's past work lies with megastars like Britney Spears, Nelly Furtado and Demi Lovato, so it's clear he wasn't looking to fall short with his Empire contributions. The show's greatest song to date is unquestionably "You're So Beautiful," and Jussie Smollett's voice was perfect for the production.
8
Taraji improvises many of her famed "Cookie" lines.
Cookie Lyon is never fails when it comes to her famed one-liners. From her classic Boo Boo Kitty statement to the unforgettable "If you want Cookie's nookie, then ditch the bitch" zinger, her character knows how to go straight for the jugular. But the best part is, the inspiration for Cookie's slick tongue comes straight from Taraji P. Henson herself.
According to Danny Strong, "[Taraji] will improv stuff and it'll be hysterical."
"When I'm in the moment, those lines just come," says Taraji. "I love it! [Terrence Howard] loves to come to me for one-liners, too, 'cause he knows I'm really good at it."
9
'Empire' marks Timbaland's first work on a TV series.
From Jay Z to Justin Timberlake, Timbaland has placed his magical music touch on a number of projects over the years. But the talented super producer has never been involved with a television series -- until now.
As Lee Daniels holds no qualms in sharing his lack of hip-hop knowledge with fans, he knew he wouldn't have to worry about the scores added into the show if he found a way to make sure Timbaland was involved. So, the Hollywood director made a call to the Virginia-born hitmaker, and three days later, magic was made.
“In three days, he gave me some music that was just astounding, and I said ‘Done’,” says Daniels.
With the music handled, the newly acclaimed television visionary can worry about other things like whether or not Raven Symone will ever make another baby mama drama show appearance.
10
Jussie Smollett is Jurnee Smollett's big brother.
If Jamal Lyon's real name, Jussie Smollett, looks or sounds a bit familiar, there's a reason. When it comes to the Smolletts, acting is definitely a family business.
Jussie is the older brother of Jurnee Smollett-Bell. She's had her fair share of roles in Hollywood over the years. She's remembered by many for several childhood roles including Denise, Little Richard's niece on the hit '90s shows Full House. She's also starred on Hangin With Mr. Cooper and as Eve Batiste in the 1997 film Eve's Bayou. In 2013, she landed the lead in Tyler Perry's Temptation: Confessions of a Marriage Counselor.
This brother-sister duo are keeping it all in the family when it comes to their talents.
Frederick M. Brown, Getty Images
The Fugees' Pras Loses $30 Million Lawsuit Against New York Post
Former Fugees rapper Pras sued The New York Post back in October over a story the media giant printed saying he skipped out on his own September 11th charity event.
Game's 'The Documentary 2′ Will Arrive This Summer
Being relevant in the rap game for over the span of a decade is no small feat and West Coast rapper Game has had one of the more tumultuous runs in recent memory. But through all of the madness, the guy who put Compton back on the map in the mid aughts is still standing and looking to celebrate his 10 years in the music industry with his upcoming release, The Documentary 2, the sequel to his classic 2005 debut.
In January, the MC celebrated the 10-year anniversary of The Documentary with a concert in his hometown of L.A. with surprise guests Dr. Dre, Kendrick Lamar, Schoolboy Q, Tyga, Marsha Ambrosius and others joining him onstage.
The recently released Meek Mill collaboration, “The Soundtrack,” is the first single off the album and serves as evidence that Game can more than hold his own when matched with newer artists. He owns the track with his gruff vocals and lyrical aptitude. If the rapper can match the quality of this loosie throughout the whole LP, Kendrick Lamar may not be the only Compton lyricist making a big splash this year.
The Documentary 2 arrives after the 2014 release of Blood Moon: Year of the Wolf. The album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard R&B/Hip Hop Chart, No. 2 on the Independent Chart and No. 7 on the Billboard 200 chart upon its release.
See 10 Most Anticipated Rap Albums of 2015
Nike Air Max 90 Sneakerboot Patch Pack
When it comes to fashion, the military always makes for great inspiration. There is something about that utilitarian base that is perfect to build on for a really creative take on tech. The Nike Air Max 90 Sneakerboot is the next candidate for a military makeover and the sneaker is given an interesting alteration.
The shoe comes in two tonal colorways including black or tan and its true selling point comes in the form of patches. Included in each pair is a set of Velcro patches that are meant to hit the heel and tongue of the sneaker. The set of patches either pay homage to select cities or serve as branding for the beloved Nike runner.
Both pair arrive on Mar. 12 and will be available at Nike Lab as well as select retailers.
See 20 Surprising Sneaker Releases
Raekwon to Crowdfund "The Purple Tape" Documentary (@raekwon)
Raekwon's classic album, Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, is one of the most influential Hip-Hop albums in history, often being considered the blueprint for Mafioso rap.
Kanye West's Adidas Yeezy Season Lookbook Leaks
Yeezy Season is to a great start. After revealing his highly-anticipated Adidas collaboration in February at New York Fashion Week, then dropping his $350 Yeezy Boost 350 sneaker and releasing new music like “Wolves” featuring Vic Mensa and Sia and the latest “All Day,” things just keep getting better for Kanye West fans.
His fashion followers now have the first sneak peak of the Adidas Yeezy Season lookbook, which features more than 50 pages of the “All Day” rhymer’s latest collection.
The lookbook literally captures the essence of Ye’s NYFW show through a bleak, yet detailed lens. Inspired by grunge, West’s dark, muted signature color scheme is reflected throughout the neutral collection of essentials. You can find anything from Ye’s infamous Lenny Kravitz-esque holed-up sweater look to hoodies and army fatigue parkas. There are even suede backpacks and other cozy high-end streetwear. Yeezy even makes an appearance in the spread, donning a hooded black puffer coat.
French fans got a sneak peek on Sunday (March 8) at Yeezy’s Louis Vuitton Foundation Frank Gehry Museum concert — it was only a matter of time before it reached across the pond. Kanye first announced his partnership with Adidas back in November 2013, after a nasty split with Nike.
The release date for the line still remains a mystery, but until then, check out the gallery above to get your glimpse at Kanye West’s Adidas collaboration.
NBA's Glen "Big Baby" Davis Moves on to Vixen Jasmin Jaye
Los Angeles Clippers star Glen "Big Baby" Davis recently ended his marriage to his spouse and child's mother and has moved on to sexy vixen Jasmin Jaye, as the couple hit up Mastro's Steakhouse in Beverly Hills together over the weekend.
Exclusive! Ar-Ab on Hits Being Placed on Him for His Actions in the Hood (@arab_tgop)
In this clip featuring Ar-Ab, the rapper speaks on his past life of being "in the wrong places at the wrong times," saying he used to not really care about the repercussions of his actions and put himself in situations he knew he shouldn't have been in.
Nicki Minaj Remixes Maroon 5′s 'Sugar'
Nicki Minaj surprises with her remix of Maroon 5′s track, “Sugar.”
Released late last night (March 9), the “Truffle Butter” rapper plays on the idea of sugar with sweet lyrics that call out different types of candy but keeps the sassy and smart lyricism that Nicki is known for. She opens up the track with her verse and quickly flows with the guitar-driven pop track.
“Yo, I got them Now & Laters, and them Jolly Ranchers too / It ain’t a question, but I got the answers too / These shoes is Cavalli, and the pants is, too / When I see him I’mma strip like the dancers do / I’mma show them how to do it like the pamphlets do / Show these girls how to do it off campus too / Yo, as long as you know he got the baddest, I’m flattered / I’m the only one that he answers to,” she raps.
She doesn’t only rap on the verse but also shows off her singing voice on the last part before Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine starts. “And if you need it then I’mma put it on ya / Ain’t nothin’ sweeter, you want this sugar, don’t ya? / Up, down, inside, water park it, slip slide / Would’a, should’a, could’a got ya sugar, get ya sugar,” she sings.
Aside from a few synth layers and additional beats, the song stays fairly similar to the original track. Both the band and Nicki hinted at the track by posting the cover art on social media, which you can see below.
If you’re feeling the track, you can grab it on iTunes.
Listen to Maroon 5′s “Sugar” featuring Nicki Minaj
Coming Soon #SugarREMIX #Maroon5
A photo posted by Nicki Minaj (@nickiminaj) on Mar 9, 2015 at 12:28pm PDT
Amber Rose Dons Black Lingerie in Defense of Slut Shaming Haters (@DaRealAmberRose)
Amber Rose isn't worried about critics who have slammed the model about her appearance, as she let it all hang out for her followers over the weekend.
Nick Cannon Files Lawsuit Claiming Mariah Sold Home w/o Consent
Nick Cannon and Mariah Carey have been pretty civil towards each other since parting ways last year, but that could potentially change as Nick has just filed a lawsuit claiming the "Beautiful" singer sold their $9 million mansion without his consent.
Madonna Reveals Details About Kanye West and Drake Collaborations
Madonna has always had a close relationship with rappers, as we detailed in her hip-hop history, so it only makes sense that she would connect with some of the biggest rhymers in the game.
The pop legend sat down with Complex magazine recently and detailed her collaborations with Kanye West and Drake. She’s been friends with The College Dropout spitter for years, and he worked on her new album, Rebel Heart.
“We ran into each other at a party and we got to talking and he just said, ‘Where are you with your new record? I know you’re making a record right now and I want to hear it,’” Madonna explained.
“He came over to my house one day and he listened to everything and he said, ‘I want to do with you what Rick Rubin did with me and my album. I had almost finished it and Rick came in and basically went through every track, made comments, made things better, and strip things down,’” she added.
Kanye was only able to work on four songs, however, because he was too busy, the singer stated.
The hip mother of 4 also shared that she has a project in the works with Drake. She wasn’t very specific but mentioned that’s it’s definitely in the “pipeline.” She even addressed the Instagram photos that Drizzy posted of her earlier this year and how she loves his song “Madonna,” off his mixtape, If You’re Reading This It’s Too Late. In one of the photos Drake said that he wanted to “ride” with her. “I answered him. I’m waiting,” she said.
Watch Madonna speak on her Yeezy and Drizzy collabos above.
Exclusive! Uncle Murda on Flex vs. Jay Z: I Like Drama, I'm All About Beef (@unclemurda @funkflex)
Brooklyn spitter Uncle Murda sat down with VladTV and spoke on his relationship with Jay Z, saying Hov was the only person he dealt with at Def Jam.
Mary Mary's Tina Campbell Shoots Up Cheating Husband's Car
Season 4 of We tv's reality hit, 'Mary Mary,' is proving to be compelling television.
Ciara Turns Into a Sassy Ballerina in 'I Bet' Video
When it comes to her videos, Ciara showcases some amazing moves. In her new visual for “I Bet,” she goes for the classical route with a beautiful ballet routine.
Inspired by a little girl’s jewelry box, Ciara is dressed in a soft pink two-piece gown. The long slit down the front of the skirt shows off her toned legs. While her look is sexy, she does it with class. The outfit grabs our attention, but it’s the fact that she is standing on point the whole time.
She impresses us further with a high-cut white leotard, ballet point shoes and a matching long coat. You can easily tell from the muscles in her thighs that this singer just isn’t any kind of dancer — she’s a professional.
Released in January, the Harmony Samuels-produced balled proves to the world that a bad breakup won’t break her down. The song strongly hints about what happened between her and former fiance Future, but she takes the high road here and doesn’t focus on a storyline that lays out the meaning of the lyrics. Instead, Ciara’s visual is an artistic and emotional approach through dance to express the feelings in the song.
No matter how personal this track is, she thinks everyone will relate to it in different ways. “I imagine this song will be very meaningful for a lot of people,” she told Billboard . “It is much bigger than any one person’s experience.”
“I Bet” is the first single off Ciara’s upcoming album, Jackie, which is named after her mother. The project will arrive in May.
Puma XS 500 Graphic
When it comes to groundbreaking design, Puma has more than left their mark as they continue to push the boundaries of just what a shoe can be. Their latest creation, the Puma XS 500 Graphic, blends style and technology in a sleek new way that we haven’t seen before.
The shoe’s upper is shrouded by a one-piece caged overlay that reveals a graphic print underneath. They’ve taken great liberty to give us a multitude of colorways so that we can step in style and as far as comfort is concerned, this pair should more than suffice being that it has roots in Puma’s Trinomic family.
The full range of Puma XS 5000 Graphic styles are available now at Foot Locker’s Puma Lab. Now just imagine if these things were fully customizable, that would be insanity.
See 20 Surprising Sneaker Releases
'The Simpsons' Greatest Rapper and Singer Cameos [PHOTOS]
Sam Simon, the co-creator of The Simpsons, has passed away after battling colon cancer. According to Reuters, the 59-year-old producer died in his Los Angeles home on Monday (March 9).
Simpsons show runner Al Jean also confirmed the sad news via Twitter. “Just heard terrible news of death of @simonsam. A great man; I owe him everything,” he tweeted.
Simon left a huge impression in the entertainment world. Before developing The Simpsons, he wrote and produced several iconic television shows including Taxi, Cheers and the Drew Carey Show, among many others.
But couch potatoes will most likely remember Simon for The Simpsons. The classic prime-time series was created in 1989 by Simon, producer James Brooks and cartoonist Matt Groening. The cartoon show originally appeared as a short on The Tracey Ullman Show before landing on its permanent Sunday night 8PM ET time slot. The animated series now holds the record as the longest-running program in the history of television — 26 seasons and counting.
In honor of Sam Simon, we take a look at some of the famous rappers and singers who paid a visit to the wacky world of Springfield. From 50 Cent to Pharrell Williams to Lionel Richie to even Tupac Shakur as a hologram, these artists and others poked fun at themselves on the show.
So here’s our list of The Simpsons Greatest Rapper and Singer Cameos.
Exclusive! Joey Fatts: I'd Take Daytime Job Even at This Point in My Career (@joeyfatts)
Despite having a huge buzz around him right now, Joey Fatts told VladTV that he would have no shame in taking a daytime job at this point in his music career, because he's all about getting money.
Empire's Jussie Smollett Addresses Gay Rumors on Ellen (@jussiesmollett)
A lot of fans have been questioning Jussie Smollett's sexuality preference in real life after playing the openly gay character Jamal Lyon on the hit Fox series "Empire," and the actor addressed the speculations on Ellen.
Watch My Moves... 1999?
So last year, I wrote a pretty extensive post about Dooley-O's classic "Watch My Moves," which debuted on radio in 1990 but didn't make it to wax until Stones Throw rescued it in 2002. With his DJ/co-producer Chris Lowe, he introduced the world to the Skull Snaps break from "It's a New Day," which they later retooled for Stezo 's "To the Max." And I also talked about how a duo named CKO and Sta-La-Fro make a knock off of it, with the help of the late Paul C! It's a pretty compelling saga... which seems to have one more important vinyl installment yet to come, but more on that later in the year.
In the meantime, I'd like to talk about another obscure little chapter in the story that I didn't mention. See, before Stones Throw helped kick start Dooley-O's comeback in the 2000s with that "Watch My Moves" 12", Chris Lowe had already started mounting a little comeback of his own. In the late 90s, he started releasing indie 12" singles on Bronx Science Recordings. His second 12" was a collaboration with Large Professor and his third featured Sadat X and Dinco D. But his first was a bit of a quieter release, since it didn't have any big name guest stars on it. It was just a little song called "The Non Stop." Oh, and there was a B-side called "Watch My Moves."
I guess I'll cover "The Non Stop" real quick first, though of course it's the B-side that raised the big red question mark. Well, it's got a big, chunky bass line with a slow vibe over hard boom bap drums. And yes, Chris raps on this. He wrote and produced it; it's a total solo effort. And he's not bad, pretty equivalent to, say, Diamond D in terms of producers who rap. He's got a pretty tough voice and a simple flow. The rhymes are pretty basic braggadocio stuff about how he's going to "produce a track and make a killin'." It's a pretty nice little cut with a cool, throwback hook to the golden era, "we gonna rock... to the non-stop." There's even a line in the first verse where he says, "don't watch me, watch my moves."
Yeah, so that just really makes you flip this over already. And, well, "Watch My Moves" absolutely does not feature the same original instrumental loop, but the actual, underlying drums sound like the same Skull Snaps' ones, just slowed down a bit. It's another hard but slow funk track, on some EPMD type shit, with a neat horn riff on the hook. And it's Chris Lowe rapping again, not Dooley, although he does mention him, saying, "you ain't got nothin' comin' against Dooley-O and Chris Lowe." But the hook, yes, is "don't watch me, watch my moves." In fact... all the lyrics are from "Watch My Moves 1990." It's a total, word-for-word cover. Well, almost total. Instead of starting off verse 2 with, "yes, another KGB production," he says, "yes, another Chris Lowe production." And he's got a slower, less dexterous flow than Dooley, which along with the totally different samples gives this song a totally different feel. I wouldn't be surprised if some heads heard this and never made the connection to the original, if they hadn't heard it in almost a decade. It really does feel like the EPMD remake of "Watch My Moves."It's pretty cool, but not on the same level as the original.
It basically just has me wondering why he made this new version, instead of just spitting some new verses and making it an entirely new, different song. I mean, in 1999 the song hadn't been released by Stones Throw yet, so I'm sure he and Dooley both thought of the original as a totally lost, unreleased song. So maybe the idea was just to recycle a good hook and set of rhymes? Maybe it's meant to be an in-joke for the few CT heads who would recognize it. The label just says it's written and produced by Lowe, although Dooley High Music ASCAP is listed, while it's not on the A-side.
At any rate, it's an interesting, fairly obscure but not at all rare 12". The instrumentals for both songs are also included, and it led to a many more releases by Chris, including two full-length albums. A curious and funky footnote.