Cleveland, Ohio R&B singer/songwriter/producer Dossi presents her new single “Without You”, produced by husband Earl Minor. Born into music, the Cleveland School Of The Arts graduate was singing for her dad’s quartet group by age five, then later as a background singer for her cousin, neo-soul singer Conya Doss, before spending five years years singing, recording and touring the world with soul legends The O’Jays. Now breaking out as a solo artist, Dossi presents “Without You” as a followup to previous single “I Want You” (stream on Spotify). Dossi says “Without You” is about “letting go of anything that can hold you back! The song applies to, family members, addiction, toxic behavior, bad relationships, anything.”
Baltimore rapper Rosito Dinero presents “Dreams”, his new single featuring Marleaux Desire and Aus Taylor. Cutting his teeth battling through school until “somebody stole a Cassidy verse and used it against me”, Rosito first broke out via Soundcloud (stream “Keep It Real” produced by Vanilla). “When I wrote this song it was around the time of the killing of Freddie Gray,” he explains. “With me living in Maryland my whole life it was wild to see the city and eventually the whole country up in arms over something that happened in our own backyard. That was the inspiration for my verse.”
Dumi Right delivers a pivotal reminder in his new single/video “Stay Focused.” The track features Outspoken, Sykotek, and KHz Pro on production. The acclaimed emcee/songwriter/performing artist/cultural ambassador has been sharing timeless gems since the golden era of Hip Hop, and conceptually has proven to be a staple in Hip Hop culture and music. Decades later he’s still going strong as evidenced in “Stay Focused.” Before pressing play check out the full interview below with Dumi Righ as he discusses the creation and inspiration for the video, current and upcoming endeavors, his role in Hip Hop, and more.
“With so much going on in the world in the grip of a global pandemic, it is easy to be overwhelmed and lose focus. This head-nodding track serves as a call to action and a reminder that we should always rise to the challenge, even if the odds seem insurmountable. It also speaks to bridging the gap between generations to help propel us to a brighter Afro Futuristic plane. As the chorus implores, “Focus on the challenges we’re facin’, Music that’ll spark elevation, Trying to change the current situation, Building with the next generation…”
MJ: For those who might be unfamiliar with Dumi Right, let’s begin by introducing you. Your history in Hip Hop dates to Zimbabwe Legit, one of the first Hip Hop groups in Africa to receive global recognition. How did that experience pave the way for you as an emcee, songwriter, and performing artist?
Dumi: When I first came out, all I wanted was for the world to hear the story of a young dude from Africa, a “brother from the Mother” that had been drawn to the power and magnetism of Hip Hop. Back in 1992, my group Zimbabwe Legit dropped a groundbreaking EP that included production from Black Sheep’s Mr. Lawnge and DJ Shadow. Since then, I’ve remained deeply immersed in the art and culture performing domestically and internationally and recording critically acclaimed albums and unique projects. I like to live by the phrase, “Don’t let your past be brighter than your future” so I was never one to rest on my laurels. Even though back then we were written up in Billboard magazine, The Source, and yeah even “Word Up! Magazine” that I read from cover to cover admiring my favorite rap stars as the Biggie lyric says, I knew that if I didn’t keep pushing and keep moving, I could easily fall off. When we first got started, international Hip Hop was by no means at the scale that it is today. There wasn’t a well-defined blueprint on how to make the connection between Hip Hop in other parts of the world and what was going on in the US at the time, and so I had to navigate and learn by trial-and-error style. I loved the fact that we could give voice to a whole segment of the culture that many people may not have been familiar with and bring a unique perspective and view of the world through the music. Also coming out at that time meant that I was a de facto ambassador of sorts, representing a bunch of people like myself. That meant I had to come correct and make a mark because a lot of eyes were watching, and I felt the weight of people who were counting on me to be successful. Having that pressure from the get-go gave me the drive and perseverance to realize that failure wasn’t an option and that I always needed to put my best foot forward. You don’t realize at the time the impact what you do might have, but hearing from people how that initial splash was an inspiration is definitely humbling and very deeply appreciated.
MJ: You are not only respected as an emcee but also as a cultural ambassador. How did that role come into fruition? How does it tie into your music?
Dumi: Coming out of the international scene, I have always had a desire to connect with artists from all over the globe. Knowing how Hip Hop culture influenced and inspired me growing up and so I understood how important it was to build bridges and community globally. As a result, for many years I worked on collaborations, projects, and initiatives that involved artists from countries around the world. I later heard about a formal opportunity to practice many of the things I had been doing already, by teaching Hip Hop overseas through a program called Next Level. A DJ friend of mine had participated in the first edition of that program and he told me that it was amazing and that I needed to apply. I did and was selected to teach emceeing in Thailand a few years ago. It was one of the most incredible experiences of my music career and even my life in general. It was an extension of the work that I had been doing but it also allowed me to build with up-and-coming emcees and teach the principles of Hip Hop and performing as well as learn more about Thai culture and the people. It was an affirmation that I was doing meaningful work and strengthened my resolve to continue to be a global connector and bring artists together through music.
MJ: Your latest video “Stay Focused” features Outspoken and Sykotek with production by KHz Pro. Before we dive into the content of the video, tell us how everyone linked up with each other. The filming aspect alone of the video is incredible.
Dumi: Outspoken is one of my favorite emcees from Zimbabwe. He has insightful rhymes that address the times, and he is a very versatile artist. I have performed with him when his group visited the US and we collaborated on a previous song and video. My homie Khz cooked up this head-banging track and as I was formulating an idea of what I wanted to do with it, I realized he’d be the perfect artist to collaborate with on it. He also works quickly, and the finished product is always dope. I was introduced to Sykotek by a mutual friend and really liked the way he rhymed and the way he seamlessly transitioned between languages. He raps in English but can stop on a dime and start spitting in Ndebele and he’s got crazy skills doing both. Also having previously done a song called “Doin’ Damage in My Native Language” it seemed appropriate to have him carry the torch and represent that here. In addition, the three of us had collaborated last year on a Covid-19 awareness song for a project that a counterpart was putting together. That song “In These Days and Times” turned out well and our styles complimented each other so I felt we needed to do it again for this. We are all in different countries, Outspoken in Harare, Zimbabwe; Sykotek was in Johannesburg, South Africa at the time and I am based in Washington, DC but we were able to get on the same page and record music first and then later the video to bring the “Stay Focused” concept together.
MJ: What was the inspiration behind “Stay Focused”? Did the video meet/exceed your expectations?
Dumi: The song basically talks about following through on what your goals are despite distractions, setbacks, or roadblocks. It also speaks to connecting with the next generation to build a stronger community and change sub-optimal situations or circumstances that we might find ourselves in. The beat slapped so hard that I knew I needed something high energy to match it. I did a couple of different things for the chorus but then I thought it would be dope to switch it up and have someone else rock the hook and summarize the whole concept. I loved what Outspoken did with it and that set the stage for everything else. I wasn’t sure if we’d be able to pull off a video given our different geographic locations, but the guys were all keen to try it out and made plans to record their footage and send it to me for editing. Another longtime friend and collaborator by the name of Magee offered to edit it all together and he did it seamlessly like the pro that he is. The footage was shot in 3 different countries, and he took the challenge of weaving the story together and he did an amazing job. It exceeded all expectations for me even though I know he’s a wizard with video. He’s directed and edited a lot of African Hip Hop music videos but also works in the field so has edited numerous films and documentaries, so it was certainly within his realm of capability, and it shows.
MJ: It seems at times music that offers empowerment and motivation that wake up and stimulate our core and minds, has fallen by the wayside. As an emcee and cultural ambassador, what is your blueprint to ensure “Stay Focused” doesn’t take a back seat to the monotony that is being saturated on the airwaves and in communities?
Dumi: The first thing for me is not being influenced by the flavor of the month trends prevailing in the industry. Understanding who I am and what my authentic and unique voice is means I can exercise the freedom to not go along with whatever is trendy now and stay focused on my grind and the work that I’m trying to do. I also know that saying something in music might mean it might not be highlighted in those mainstream circles so finding alternative outlets and audiences to amplify the messages that we’re dropping and spread the word about what we’re doing. I focus on non-typical music outlets but also leverage the global Hip Hop community to find the eyes and ears that appreciate that raw and true Hip Hop sound and lyrics. Like-minded people are out there, you just have to find them. I do work in Hip Hop education and so this type of music also finds receptive audiences in those types of forums as well. And a wise man once said, “Market and promote, and you gotta hope, that the product is dope” (word to Q-Tip), so to begin with I always make sure that I put forth dope music with beats and rhymes that people are going to want to listen to. If you have a great product, when the audience hears it, they can’t help but appreciate it. I also lean on my network of international collaborators to help carry the messages to fans in their areas that would dig it but I otherwise might not be able to reach on my own. So essentially building an ecosystem of progressive Hip Hop on our own, knowing that we can’t count on support from the mainstream. Doing things beyond just music like workshops and panels also helps to build that community and work to “try to change the current situation” besides just dropping records. Hopefully, through all these combined efforts a major impact will be felt.
MJ: Can you share with audiences and fans what they can expect from Dumi Right in 2022? New music, more collaborations, and/or other endeavors on the radar?
Dumi: While finishing up my next solo album, I ended up inking a deal with a label in the UK to re-issue one of my prior albums on limited-edition vinyl. That will drop later this year via Chopped Herring Records. I feel like folks that cop vinyls are some of the biggest supporters and truest fans and of course, that includes many DJs, so I am thrilled that we’re going to be able to make that happen. The biggest news though is the impending launch of my new website dumiright.com very soon and a brand-new solo album, Dumi Right – Foreword to the Future. I’m real amped about this as it has been a long time coming but it has some pure heat on it. Guest artists include Chubb Rock, Speech from Arrested Development, YZ, El Da Sensei, Breez Evahflowin’, Kev Brown (on production), Emskee, and more. I had an artist in South Africa draw some ill Afro-Futuristic artwork. It will drop also on limited vinyl first and then go on all the streaming platforms thereafter. We’re putting the finishing touches on it and working on the marketing and distribution plan.
MJ: Take this time to share anything else with the world of Hip Hop…
Dumi: I just served as an executive producer and artist on a compilation series, Stop Shooting Vol 1 and 2 that features emcees and producers from all over the world speaking out about gun violence and police brutality. Lots of exciting music on those two volumes including a new single called “Global Love Warming” that includes a chorus sung by Aloe Blacc. There are so many great artists on it and they all bring very unique perspectives and styles to the table so it’s refreshing to hear…Please subscribe to my YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/dumirightmusic and follow me on Instagram, FB, and Twitter for all the latest scoop.
Trouble Mane Da Don announces the release of his new single “1 Day” feat. MO3.
Trouble Mane Da Don is a talented rap artist with a unique, diverse, and forward-thinking approach. He recently struck up a collaboration with another gifted and charismatic act: MO3. The pair worked on a fantastic new single titled “1 Day,” which serves as a fantastic introduction to their skills and creative vision 1 Day is a direct and thought-provoking single, which feels like a striking combination of modern hip-hop and other influences, including the undying sounds of the golden age of the genre, which are definitely here to stay. Not many artists can easily pull off a project that features such a wide variety of elements and influences. The most obvious risk is that the material can end up sounding quite disconnected and loose – but this is not the case.
Trouble Mane Da Don is a master at creating organic, cohesive, and consistent vibes, which really flow well throughout the span of this release. Collaborating with MO3 was a great way to make this song happen and give it a unique twist. The performances are loaded with passion and integrity, while the production aesthetics are also excellent. The mixing quality is indeed world-class, with some amazing definition in the top end and lots of punch in the low-end and midrange. The results sound warm and present, yet never harsh or fatiguing, which is quite an amazing achievement, particularly in this genre.
Stream “1 Day” hereon preferred platforms and stay tuned for “Watch Over Me” feat. Boosie Badazz set to release on 12/20.
Tuff Kong Records presents new music, “Non-Fiction” by John Jigg$ x Cuns and featuring Benny the Butcher.
Lyrical Powerhouse John Jigg$ is back at it delivering more summer heat for listeners and fans. For this exclusive he’s joined forces with infamously known, Benny The Butcher. The chemistry between these two monstrosities will cause an epic adrenaline chaser for any Hip Hop head!
Jigg$ is known in “Strong Island” and now worldwide for his clever, impeccable bars. “Non-Fiction” is an epitome of just that. Simply put he is a jackhammer of punchlines, while Benny trudges in and adds his own lyrical havoc and mayhem. This cold case file will leave any competition on their backs, and that is “Non-Fiction”!
“If it ain’t broke don’t fix it, if it ain’t dope don’t listen, beat em’ to a pulp no fiction, everything fact non-fiction”
Cuns conveys the catchy, candid hook over the sounds of horns and picks right back up without skipping a beat, into a classic Hip Hop cadence.
We don’t need no walkie-talkies Nope, no walkie-talkies We don’t need your coughing when offing the morning coffee, no We don’t need no walkie-talkies Nope, no walkie-talkies We just want our hermitry to stay and our coffee to go And the last shall be… First to immerse in the pass-out heat Face in the mud where the moxie melt Till he woke up drowning in Tchotchke hell More in a cave with a torch on the wall Than a window arrangement of porcelain dolls On a brand new day, saw what he saw: Property owners who crawl to the mall With a bad toupee and a face like he authored a law; Pace like he mourning a loss Right hand on a can of worms Left full of gold he will trade for turf I mean, that’s okay You got to answer to you at the end of the volatile day But a model of mercy and might? No way! Marionette who will clap and obey! Dude, look… all that noise? Call that flight of the water boys Meet and greet and they all slap five Cheek to cheek when they colonize And a grown ass man shall abide as he wish Walk that path with a dime and a stick Walk that path with a diamond and wine Walk that path to the firing line Just walk… (walk…) Pay no mind to the new recruit with the Play-Doh spine Let’s be friends from opposite ends Wave to the kid, don’t hop on the fence Play to the radius far and away Orbit wide, don’t park in his space One little martyr who talk in his face Make one little Weathermen sharpen the blades
[Chorus:] We don’t need no walkie-talkies Nope, no walkie-talkies We don’t need your coughing when offing the morning coffee, no We don’t need no walkie-talkies Nope, no walkie-talkies We just want our hermitry to stay and our coffee to go
[Verse 2: Aesop Rock] And the last shall be… First to the curb with the mad cow meat Face in the bars of a regular cell When he woke up high in collectible hell Boom town kid who was taught by the binge That a man who expire with the most shit win That’s warpy American nonsense penned by the rich Not a routine friend in a pinch Still not used to the stench How it throws off, otherwise, lucid events In the case the afraid observe I got a Pro-Keds box full of layman’s terms It goes, “Hey! Peace! Pray for the plagued! Major relief and capacious rains.” But just ’cause I don’t want to war with you It don’t mean go warm up the barbecue I’m like, “Pardon you! ” Sawed off limit My high noon is a quick little minute I don’t wanna spend it sitting with a critic Who simply isn’t going to ever really get it This HQ is alive and alone No driveway no sign of a home No dial tone, no line for the phone No “World’s Tiniest Violin Song.” And I might just lie to them all Lie in the morgue with a deep breath hiding and bored; Fighting a smile, highly annoyed When the timing is right I will rise and record Call for the monster beats And Blockhead got animal drums, like he’s Doctor Teeth It goes red light, green light, one, two, three One large coffee, fuck you, peace
[Verse 3: John Danielle] I crawled down to the basement when the weather got cold Like a lost lamb returning to the fold And when the outside world recedes from view It’s just a year’s supply of make-up and memories of you Nineteen sixty-seven, colt forty-five Holding back the vampires, keeping me alive There’s an envelope with some cash in it out by the front door This is what they make you take the medication for
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