B.Dvine, a Long Island-based music vet calls for crate diggers and vinyl junkies in his new video “We Spin.” The esteemed emcee/producer takes audiences back to 2004 when a young BDvine was sweeping floors and ringing up customers at a local record shop. His vivid storytelling pays homage to east and west coast Hip Hop pioneers who paved the way and influenced him to go from crate digging to igniting mics. A blend of jazz, soul, and boom bap melodies emanate a refreshing 90’s vibe. Watch “We Spin” and connect with B.Dvine below.
Emcee/producer duo of M Doc Diego and ManZu Beats present ‘Universal Tongues 3’ album. The 10-track project features Indigo Phoenyx, Golden, Cut Supreme, Crotona P, Bless Picasso, Napoleon Da Legend, Mav (Da Cloth), and GNyce, and serves as the third installment of the ‘Universal Tongues’ series. The timeless dose of earmilk offers listeners a plethora of grittiness by way of gripping wordplay and sharp lyricism.
Watch the official video for “1000” Words below, taken off the album.
A compelling backdrop swarms around M Doc Diego’s raw performance of slick bars all while moving through the thick streets of Rochester NY. “Picture perfect I paint a perfect picture the man in the mirror said I been that n*gga,” Diego proclaims his stance as the hook echoes.
Rhyme Assassin, a reputable emcee from the UK announces the upcoming release of his new single “Rhyme Apostles.” In the in-depth interview below Rhyme Assassin chops it up about the legendary Hip Hop vets he enlisted for the single, what audiences and fans can expect from the single, his contributions to Hip Hop, and more. The single’s features include Crooked I, Craig G, Reks, Ruste Juxx, K Solo, Chino XL, Keith Murray, Chino XL, Canibus, AFRO, and Antlive Boombap with an intro by Jadakiss and Deep Voice on production. Rhyme Assassin takes us on a journey back to when the essence, elements, and culture of Hip Hop were at the forefront of music. Stay tuned for the release on April 3rd, 2023.
MJ: Before we jump into your upcoming release of “Rhyme Apostles” let everyone know who you are and where you’re from.
Rhyme Assassin: My name is Tichaona Brian Monera. I was born and raised in Zimbabwe. I migrated to the United Kingdom to explore opportunities for further education and personal development. An important part of that was pursuing a career in music. This is something that I have already been doing in Zimbabwe where I gained popularity with hip-hop in the early 90s. Freestyling with my homies after school, I was able to hone my craft to become a recognizable voice on the Zimbabwe music scene. These were formative moments in my music career. These encounters earned me the name Rhyme Assassin which has become my official MCEE name. The name Rhyme Assassin resonates with the skillful poetic lyrical expression of the music and the excellence of execution of my craft.
MJ: As a Hip Hop artist from the UK, tell us about the Hip Hop scene over there.
Rhyme Assassin: Hip-hop has always had a firm grip on the UK music scene with a lot of drill dominating. Hip-hop artists like Stormzy have become household names, generating a huge following worldwide. My estimation is that the UK is on the brink of becoming a hip-hop powerhouse globally. There are many upcoming hip-hop artists….
MJ: What led you to begin a career in rap and lead a lifestyle true to Hip Hop culture?
Rhyme Assassin: The greatest influencers that kickstarted my rap career are the likes of all-time greats such as KRS ONE, Run DMC & Big Daddy Kane, BIG, and 2 PAC. I grew up listening to their music on cassettes and vinyl. Because of my experiences and encounters with these hip-hop moguls, I embrace the hip-hop culture and started living out and expressing this in my lyrical content. My inspiration to write was primarily from Canibus and Krs One. I can even recall the first day I listened to Gangstarr – Moment of truth, Dead Prez – Let’s get free and DMX – It’s dark and hell is hot. Those were the early days when hip-hop was not playing much on Zimbabwe radio. Our exposure to hip-hop was mainly from folks coming from overseas and bringing cassette tapes back home. I would use my pocket money to rent out hip-hop tapes for a couple of days or more so that I can just listen to the latest hip-hop beats.
MJ: Ok, let’s jump into your new single which will be available for download and purchase on April 3rd, 2023. How were you able to link with all the powerhouses and legends? Talk about the thought process of “Rhyme Apostles” to hand-picking features, to the production, and to the final canvas.
Rhyme Assassin: The initial idea was for Rhyme Apostles to have 4 artists. Later, drawing inspiration from the Bible, the thought of the 12 apostles of Jesus dawned on my mind and this became the womb that gave birth to Rhyme Assassin’s 12 apostles on the track. The new single is based on an idea that had been in for quite a while. My vision was to bring together some of the greatest lyricists and recognizable names in hip-hop. Being on the same record with the likes of Crooked I Canibus, Craig G, Keith Murray and a host of other renowned hip-hop legends is an incredible personal triumph.
Achieving this was monumental. The journey was not a straightforward one. It was long and challenging, but an enjoyable one. The one thing that made it worthwhile is the caliber of people that I was targeting. These were real hip-hop heads, with a genuine love for true hip-hop culture. I was truly humbled by these guys’ acceptance and willingness to embrace me and work with me to bring my vision to fruition.
Every single one of them exhibited high levels of professionalism with such amazing humility. Each demonstrated a love and a passion to collaborate with emcees with roots in Africa. The emcees that made it on the record I those that reached out to and they were magnanimous enough to accept the invitation.
Shout out to those emcees who believed in me and were keen to be part of the project but could not make the financial commitment in time and were unable to be featured. There will always be scope to do collaborative projects with them in the near future. Another noteworthy artist who made an enormous contribution to this project is Deep Voice, a UK producer who created the best used in the debut single. He created the beat some seven years ago along with other beats that I subsequently used. This particular beat was archived until now and it is just the right beat for the project. The bear will be mixed and mastered by yet another creative, P2doah, a Zimbabwean-based producer. We are also currently working on the video for the song.
MJ: What are you hoping audiences take away from the single?
Rhyme Assassin: The single greatest desired outcome for this project is a greater realization but both artists and music lovers of the incredible power of collaborative music ventures across the industry. The single, Rhyme Apostles, is a clear and powerful demonstration of the synergy resulting from such collaboration. My wish for this single is that it will be timeless in its appeal and not just for a season.
MJ: It’s evident with the single, you are on a mission to conserve the authenticity of Hip Hop and push it to the forefront of music. Can you elaborate on that?
Rhyme Assassin: I am a firm believer in the need for the conservation of the truest essence of Hip hop culture expressed through lyricism. The caliber of emcees on the track have mastered this art and is an inspiration to me as I climb to my place of significance in the game.
My conviction is that hip-hop culture has a powerful potential to bring about societal and cultural cohesion globally. In that sense, the single has an apostolic assignment – to bring about a fresh crop of hip-hop artists whose focus is beyond their individual musical domains to champion a movement that will produce a generation of like-minded people. The talents and skill sets of the participating emcees are as diverse as their fingerprints are. It is this diversity that I value and celebrates the most in this project. The creative lyricism and different execution styles of the art make this project unequaled by any in hip-hop circles and that is what thrills me.
Australian sensation Optimystic releases a new project titled ‘Hip Hop Temperament.’ The 6-track EP follows the worldwide, acclaimed success of his ‘Salty Waterz’ albums. For ‘Hip Hop Temperament’ Optimystic recruits pioneers and heavyweights including Sticky Fingaz, Cappadonna, Killah Priest, Kali Ranks, Compton Menace, Strictly D.T, Big Twins, JR, Jarren Benton, and MDMC.
Geared with gritty lyrical armor, Optimystic delivers venomous bar after bar, heightened by his vicious crew. “Heartless” ideally sums up the EP as folks are running towards pastors and reverends for a savior. Optimystic is aiming at clown rappers and taking them out one by one with bullets of steel bars and punchlines. Stream ‘Hip Hop Temperament’ below.
Poetic Killa’s new anthem-style track “Stand Up” is not only blaring through Boston but globally and topping indie charts. If you’re a real one, stand up and put your hands up, and hit repeat. Killa wastes no time jumping in with cut-throat bars and punchlines reminding folks he’s from the school of hard knocks. “My names heavy it holds weight/ Murder murder my aim steady a cold case/ The fame’s deadly it ain’t get me like OJ/ Look at y’all still stuck in your own ways.” The gritty, yet cinematic melodies intensify Killa’s lyrics and are sure to both resonate and get everyone on their feet. But this anthem isn’t for everyone, it’s clearly for those who are real and on another level like Poetic Killa.
If you’re a real one then stand up and put your hands up. Stream the single here on preferred platforms below.
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.
Pengame Classic (MC) and Casso Beats (producer) unleash their collaborative, full-length album titled ‘Casso’s Theme.’ The 15-track project is available now on all streaming platforms and includes guest appearances from Jus Write, City The Great, Jae Law aka Hindrix, Celdom Seen, Chambs, and Ha$h.
If you’re not head-nodding through the concrete jungle with an expression geared to slap somebody’s mama, this album is not for you! The duo’s chemistry is electrifying and displays a polished canvas of raw lyricism heightened by gritty, NY undertones and melodies. Listeners are sure to press repeat without skipping any tracks. Pengame Classic and Casso Beats undeniably ended 2021 with guns blazing. Stream ‘Casso’s Theme’ and connect with Pengame Classic on Instagram @pengameclassic.
Port Huron, MI-based Hip Hop artist Substance810 without a doubt lives up to his name. Listeners can expect potent rhymes, raw emotion, and vivid lyricism. Being heavily influenced by the golden era of Hip Hop, the esteemed emcee vows to preserve Hip Hop culture. It’s evident with his fan base along with his honest, yet entertaining lyricism, he does just that. Listen to “Savage Lands/May It Be Swift” and connect with Substance810 below.
Mic Mountain defines his latest EP ‘Piragua’ as a musical celebration of culture and life, that’s presented in eight different styles. ‘Piragua’ is an audio and visual celebration of the Afro-Latino emcee/producer’s life. He combines a variety of beats with stories of his past, his Puerto Rican heritage, his dreams, along with plans for the future.
Tracks like “Mire Loco” feature a southern vibe as Mic expresses his views on the current state of government. The song also features an animated music video that Mic created and directed himself. “Peligroso” is a track that tells Mic’s story of growing up alone looking for his family, to his time in jail, and how he went from relying on street hustles to relying on God. Watch “Peligroso” here on YouTube.
This club meets the streets banger will leave “ears handicapped.” Over thumping bass the dominating wordsmith delivers a fierce message issuing rappers to fall back on the sidelines. One thing to note, Scotty Mac is far from fiction and on a steadfast mission. The catchy hook is sure to have Hip Hop heads pressing repeat. Stream “Get To Know” me and connect with Scotty Mac below.
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