1Xtra Live

The BBC’s black music digital station, BBC Radio 1Xtra, has secured an incredible line up of highly acclaimed UK music artists, including Dizzee Rascal, Tinchy Stryder, Chipmunk, Taio Cruz, Jay Sean and JLS for its flagship live music event - 1Xtra Live.

The event, which takes place at the Sheffield Arena on Saturday 28th November, will see the artists performing across two stages in front of up to 12,000 people, making it the biggest standalone event in the station’s history.

The event was announced in Trevor Nelson’s Radio 1 and 1Xtra simulcast show on Saturday 24th October.

Speaking on the show, Dizzee said: “I’m looking forward to 1Xtra Live. I made some of my first album in Sheffield. It’s going to be good. Big up everybody who will be coming down!”

The full line up is as follows:

Dizzee Rascal
Chipmunk
Tinchy Stryder
JLS
Jay Sean
Taio Cruz
Kano
Donaeo

The event is to be co-hosted by Trevor Nelson and Mistajam while Tim Westwood will be tearing down the house as DJ for the night.

1Xtra Live will broadcast on a special simulcast show on Radio 1 and 1Xtra, presented by Trevor and Mistajam. Ace and Vis will be in the crowd speaking to the audience while Max gets all the gossip from backstage.

Trevor Nelson says: “1Xtra Live will without doubt be the hottest home grown gig, with no less than five acts who have had number one hits in the last couple of years. It’s going to be 1Xtra’s biggest gig to date.”

Highlights of the event will also transmit in a special 30 minute programme on BBC Three, presented by Radio 1’s Reggie Yates.

Tickets are free and will be limited to two per person. They will be available to personal callers at the Sheffield Arena box office from 10am until 4pm on Sunday 1st November. They will be distributed on a first come first served basis.

Additionally tickets will be made available nationally online from 10am on Monday 2nd November. For further details go to www.bbc.co.uk/1xtra

Ben Cooper, Deputy Controller for BBC Radio 1Xtra, says: “I’m thrilled to be bringing some of the UK’s best young UK artists to Sheffield for this year’s event. 1Xtra celebrates the best British artists across all genres and I think this strong line up reflects that.”

Neil Wyatt, Executive Producer, Live Events, adds: “Sheffield, with its thriving music scene, provides the perfect location for 1Xtra Live this year. It’s our second 1Xtra Live event and we’re bringing a fantastic line up of UK artists to the city for the station’s biggest event yet.”

Further artists will be announced over the coming weeks. For further details visit the 1Xtra website – www.bbc.co.uk/1xtra

www.bbc.co.uk/1xtra/1xtralive2009

Markus the Sadist Review

Markus the Sadist

A Jonzi D Production

The Bloomsbury Theatre, London


Billed as a ‘rap opera’, Markus the Sadist tells the story of a talented young battle MC from South London who is picked up by a scheming A&R with the promise of fame and wealth. The dialogue is delivered to a large extent through rhyme, with quite a bit of rapping throughout. The composer and musical director of the show is talented musician Soweto Kinch, and with Jonzi D as artistic director, the play has a strong team behind it.


Bashy shines as lead character Markus, a Brixton rapper whose mother advises him to “put down the mic” and concentrate on his studies and focus on getting a conventional career. Nolan Weekes also stands out as cunning A&R man Top Blizzy, representing the darker side of the industry, persuading Markus to change his British accent to an American one and convincing him that those that spend money on records “don’t want to hear a nerd spit”. He gives Markus the moniker which he subsequently adopts, and when one of the characters point out that Markus is “such a nice boy”, Blizzy slyly says “leave that to me”.



The audience were clearly very involved in the action on stage, cheering along and responding in all the right places, and when Bashy’s character’s trousers dropped, all the girls whooped and applauded, cementing his place as a real UK sex symbol.


While the play is a satire of the music industry, illustrating how rappers often have to change their style in order to become popular, there are parts that are somewhat silly and over the top. An example is that in the modern world of UK rap, whilst it is true that many artists who make it sound different to how they did before reaching commercial popularity, it is not a given that they are required to change their accent to sound American, something which was more common in previous decades. As a play that is set in 2004, this seemed like a somehow outdated and unbelievable addition to the story, although it did add an element of humour to the show. The new lyrics Markus adopts are also a bit ridiculous, but then as a satire, perhaps this is required in order to deliver the underlying message clearly and concisely.


After taking Blizzy’s advice, Markus’ transformation is rapid and he needs little persuading, perhaps serving to show how desperate many artists are to make it, regardless of the costs. He soon becomes an international superstar, and it is apparent that a choice has been made between being a nice person and becoming a rap mogul. The story then takes an unanticipated twist, and the ending is even more unexpected, making this is an entertaining show which kept the audience involved throughout.


By Anna Nathanson


www.annanathanson.wordpress.com

www.jonzi-d.co.uk

New Skepta Release Today!

Skepta featuring Jay Sean
Lush

Skepta of grime wonder-group Boy Better Know is back with his second
single from the sophomore album Microphone Champion; Lush. Following
on from the hype of Too Many Man, this takes us back into the dance
for a smoother rendezvous with the ladies.


British pop singer-songwriter Jay Sean sings the smooth chorus,
bringing a sexy RnB vibe to the Skepta-produced anthem. As Sean sings
over the electro sounds, Skepta confides; ‘its not the champagne
dance, it’s the champagne tour…’ as he talks us through a tale of lust
at first sight across a club.

Hype-hunters needn’t worry; a remix courtesy of H20, Fuzzy Logik and
Rudekid featuring Boy Better Know band mates Jammer and Frisco will
also be doing the airwave rounds.

As the managing director of Grime movement Boy Better Know, Skepta is
currently enjoying a wave of success at the top of the pile. Behind
him lies a string of sell out shows and the BBK legacy that has
defined a generation of Grime internationally.

Skepta is part of an early set of grime MC’s who defined the genre in
the early ‘noughties’. His peers including Wiley, Tinchy Stryder and
Dizzee Rascal have been enjoying the heights of the UK charts of late,
with newcomers such as Chipmunk setting the standards for the younger
generation of grime MC’s rising through the ranks.

The craze became associated with the mainstream when Skepta gave the
nation the moves with Rolex Sweep. Cue an International celebrity
craze as Hip Hop legend Busta Rhymes and TV’s Paul O'Grady attempted
to recreate the steps. Coldplay's Chris Martin performed his own
rendition during a gig at Brixton Mass and the iconic Timmy Mallett
created the Boy Better Know 'Sweep Show'!

www.myspace.com/skepta

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Bounce Review

Insane in the Brain:
A Street-dance Version of 'One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest'
Review by Anna Nathanson
Published on www.britishhiphop.co.uk

An adaptation of the hugely successful film / novel One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest, Insane in the Brain is a modern version of the renowned drama, performed almost entirely through dance. Swedish street-dance crew Bounce light up the stage, keeping the audience captivated throughout the hour and a half duration of this colourful, lively and entertaining spectacle.

DJ Krush, Cypress Hill, Punjabi MC and Dizzee Rascal all feature on the uptempo hip-hop heavy soundtrack, but there is also a smattering of dance music, funk and even an 80s sequence, complete with a leotard-clad girl and a well-oiled muscle man to entertain the audience, which was made up of mostly young people.

There are humourous elements to the show, including one scene where the group get caught sneaking out to the cinema, and what follows clearly delighted the audience, judging by the rapturous laughter.

The warning of violence on the ticket might seem alarming, but in fact this is a reference to the very end, which is instrumental to the story and not gory by any measure - no blood and guts in sight. There is also a sex-scene but this too is tastefully done, with the lighting disguising the action, making it suggestive rather than graphic.

The plot is brought to life and translated into dance skilfully, and it is not necessary to know the story in order to fully appreciate this show, as it completely stands up on its own. There is a bit of acting, but mostly the cast do what they do best and that’s dance. The choreography is definitely on-point; the dancing fluid and in-sync, and the sound, lighting and set unfaultable. Definitely a must see.

http://www.insanetour.co.uk

Tour Dates

Nottingham Playhouse – Nottingham – October 6th & 7th
http://www.nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk
Sheffield Lyceum – Sheffield – October 9th & 10th
http://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk
Sherman – Cardiff – October - 13th & 14th
http://www.shermancymru.co.uk
Lighthouse – Poole – October 16th & 17th
http://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk
Hall For Cornwall – Truro – October 20th & 21st
http://www.hallforcornwall.co.uk
Festival Theatre – Edinburgh – October 24th, 25th & 26th
http://www.eft.co.uk
Macrobert- Stirling – October 29th, 30th and 31st
http://www.macrobert.stir.ac.uk
Warwick Arts Centre – November 3rd and 4th
http://www.warwickartscentre.co.uk
Wycombe Swan – November 10th & 11th
http://www.wycombeswan.co.uk
Northern Stage – Newcastle – November – 13th & 14th
http://www.northernstage.co.uk
Wyvern Theatre – Swindon – November 17th & 18th
http://www.wyverntheatre.org.uk
The Lowry – Salford – November 21st
http://www.thelowry.com

What to do this weekend...

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Markus The Sadist

Jonzi D Productions
presents...

Markus The Sadist

AUTUMN TOUR – OCTOBER 2009

As Hip Hop culture evolves and continues to court controversy,
Jonzi D Productions return with bold new theatre, taking a wry look at celebrity within the Hip Hop ‘industry’ and the manipulative players masterminding urban myths.

Markus The Sadist tells the story of a talented young emcee from humble UK origins,
earning his accolades at local battle championships as he sweeps the board with his raw, precocious skills.

Attracting the attentions of record companies and unscrupulous management, Markus has to agree to certain conditions in order to capitalise on the offer of a lifetime - He must sound American, mention his sponsors and predictably have a gang affiliation. After signing and reaching the dizzy heights of rap superstardom, this story takes an unexpected turn as Markus decides to switch styles at the height of his popularity…

Written and directed by Jonzi D who continues to set a precedent within Hip Hop theatre and dance, this modern rap fable includes brand new music from MOBO award winning jazz innovator Soweto Kinch. With a vibrant cast collectively portraying a diverse array of characters, the lead role of Markus comes courtesy of
Bashy, a rising UK star and critically acclaimed musician/writer who won Most Inspiring Act at the Urban Music Awards in 2008.

With his career in the ascendant, Bashy takes time out of recordings and shows to debut his acting skills and work with Jonzi D Productions on this explosive new work.

Tour Dates

1st and 2nd NORTH FINCHLEY artsdepot, 8pm

6th STOCKTON-ON-TEES Arc, 7.30pm

8th NOTTINGHAM Playhouse, 8pm

10th MAIDENHEAD Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, 7.30pm

13th MALVERN Theatres, 7.30pm

16th - 17th MANCHESTER Contact Theatre, 8pm

19th LONDON Bloomsbury Theatre, 8pm

22nd - 24th BIRMINGHAM The Drum, 7.30pm

26th - 27th LEEDS West Yorkshire Playhouse, 7.45pm

30th - 31st IPSWICH New Wolsey Theatre, 7.45pm

www.jonzi-d.co.uk

Posted by Anna Nathanson

MC Remedee of Cookie Crew interview

Posted by Anna Nathanson

U Takeover

Lowkey and Immortal Technique

One of the UK's heaviest MCs, Lowkey, teams up with New York legend Immortal Technique to bring us 'Voices of the Voiceless' which is available as a snippet on youtube today. The full version comes out on itunes on September 21st.



Posted by Anna Nathanson

Raekwon Interview

Check out www.youtube.com/annanathansonfootage for an interview with the Wu Tang Clan's Raekwon, who releases his album Only Built For Cuban Linx 2, on September 8 2009.



Comments always appreciated!

Thanks

Anna Nathanson

Big Smoke Blog Editor

New Jay Z

Jay Z

Single: RUN THIS TOWN – AUGUST 31

Album: THE BLUEPRINT 3 – SEPTEMBER 14


Jay-Z joins forces with Rihanna and Kanye West for his brand new single, ‘Run This Town’ - set for release on August 31 via Roc Nation. Since its very first worldwide radio debut play at 9:11EST on July 24, the track has garnered much attention in the UK, enjoying spot plays on stations across the country. Produced by No-ID and Kanye West, it’s already A-listed at Radio 1Xtra, B-listed at Radio 1 and C-listed at both Choice FM and the Galaxy Network to name a few.

‘Run This Town’ is the first single proper to come from the hotly anticipated - The Blueprint 3 album, out in the UK on September 14. In the US, the record drops on September 11, exactly 8 years to the day since the release of the first Blueprint album and also marks the anniversary of the New York September 11 bombings. “The trilogy has come full circle”, says Jay Z. “Blueprint encompasses the essence of those that influenced me. It pays homage to the soul music our parents played.” He goes on to say, “musically the album recognises that there is a generation of us that are influencing the next wave of artists. The album lays the groundwork for what can happen next”.

Jay Z will play a string of live dates with Coldplay in September, starting in Manchester, followed by Glasgow and two dates in London at Wembley Stadium.

UK TOUR DATES

September 12 Manchester, UK L.C.C. Club (w/ Coldplay)

September 16 Glasgow, UK Hampden Park (w/ Coldplay)

September 19 London, UK Wembley Stadium (w/ Coldplay)

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Tinchy Stryder

Posted by Anna Nathanson

www.tilllate.com

Global Social Networking Website tilllate.com Acquired By M8 Magazine To Create A Multimedia Online and Print Platform

tilllate.com, Europe’s elite nightlife social networking website, moves into the next chapter of its on-going success story. Recently acquired by dance publication front-runners, M8 Magazine, the tilllate website will host its renowned mix of clubbing photographs, event calendars and nightlife listings, in addition to unrivalled editorial content syndicated from the rebranded tilllate Magazine - previously titled M8.The rebrand will bring tilllate’s powerful online community, together with M8’s loyal readership, to the forefront of both the dance music and the universal clubbing scene. The September issue of tilllate Magazine will hit the shelves on August 28th with its monster mix of dance industry news, DJ and Producer features, as well as music and nightlife reviews. The magazine will now feature a bespoke European Clubbing Section, reviewing cities and far-off clubbing destinations for its legion of readers.

In addition to the hard copy, tilllate.com will feature an online digital copy available to purchase, downloadable all month from the date of issue. tilllate.com is recognised all over the world and is available across Europe in 11 countries including the UK, Spain, Switzerland and France. With 159 millions page impressions a month, and 2.5 million unique users, tilllate is a global brand that resonates with its users on a truly prestigious level. In conjunction with the launch of tilllate’s new website and the tilllate Magazine, there will be a host of exclusive branded parties by tilllate in London, Ibiza and Scotland, with more events to be announced this year. tilllate will also be hosting the Global Underground tent at this year’s SW4 Festival in London’s Clapham on August 29th. For more information, please visit www.tilllate.com

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Download Target's Ayia Napa Mix!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/1xtra/ayianapa09/feature/targetmix.shtml

Get into the party mood with this Ayia Napa mini mix from Target. Just click the above link to download it now!

MistaJam takes the key to the underground to Ayia Napa, as he beams back the biggest tunes of the summer to the UK.

To listen, go here:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00lxxv5

For more up to the minute Napa content, jump onto www.bbc.co.uk/1xtra to see what's happening RIGHT NOW! Check out Gemma's blog, an exclusive snippet of the Giggs interview which isn't aired until TONIGHT and much more!!!

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Bounce- Insane in the Brain

Bounce

Insane in the Brain

A street-dance version of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest

by Dale Wasserman
Based on the novel by Ken Kesey
Peacock Theatre, London and national tour September 15th – November 21st 2009

Following their celebrated run at London’s Peacock Theatre in spring 2008, Swedish company Bounce return with Insane in the Brain, their acclaimed production of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest reworked as a feast of stunning street dance. Injecting a healthy dose of contemporary styles fused with breathtaking hip hop moves, Bounce once again present their powerful adaptation of the play by Dale Wasserman and novel by Ken Kesey at the Peacock Theatre this autumn, prior to an extensive national tour.

In the confines of a psychiatric hospital, breakdance becomes a way of expressing freedom and rebelling against the iron rule of Nurse Ratched – who happens to be a ballet fan… Insane in the Brain features a pulsating soundtrack with cuts from Missy Elliot, Dizzee Rascal, Gotan Project, David Holmes and Cypress Hill.

Inventive set design and choreography are mixed with film and multimedia sequences to produce a fast-paced show that is funny, moving and packed with high-octane dance. This production follows the self-titled Bounce, 2002’s ‘High-energy celebration’; that thrilled audiences at Sadler’s Wells prompting a return invitation for this innovative crew. The company was formed in late 1997 by a group of Sweden’s leading street dancers who formed a collective in order to explore different techniques of breaking, locking, popping, boogaloo and new school. Not afraid to use any style to create fresh and exciting work, Bounce also utilises lindy hop and tap, as these genres have influenced many generations of street dancers.

Dance Touring Partnership’s (DTP) vision is to bring the best of middle-scale dance to as many people as possible. DTP is an entrepreneurial venue partnership which includes the country’s most forward-looking and influential middle-scale venues.

Bounce will be traveling to leading venues all over the UK during this two month tour. Dates extend to key theatres in Cornwall, the midlands, Scotland, the south coast and the north, giving the UK the first opportunity this autumn to view this unique production outside of London.

“****I can’t recall when I last experienced such a fresh, fun and clearly told translation of a piece of contemporary literature into dance” The Times

“This action-packed show works like a dream” The Daily Express

“**** Insane in the Brain makes Ken Kesey’s classic story seem designed for a hip hop makeover” The Guardian UK

Tour supported by Arts Council England, Arts Council of Wales, the National Lottery through Arts Council England and Arts Council of Wales Assisted by Swedish Arts Council, The Stockholm Culture Administration, The Foundation for the Culture of the Future. Insane in the Brain is being toured in association with the Swedish EU presidency in autumn 2009
Tour Dates:
Peacock Theatre – London – September 15th – October 3rd http://www.sadlerswells.com/
Nottingham Playhouse – Nottingham – October 6th & 7th http://www.nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk/
Sheffield Lyceum – Sheffield – October 9th & 10th http://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/
Sherman – Cardiff – October - 13th & 14th http://www.shermancymru.co.uk/
Lighthouse – Poole – October 16th & 17th http://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/
Hall For Cornwall – Truro – October 20th & 21st http://www.hallforcornwall.co.uk/
Festival Theatre – Edinburgh – October 24th, 25th & 26th http://www.eft.co.uk/
macrobert Stirling – October 29th, 30th and 31st http://www.macrobert.stir.ac.uk/
Warwick Arts Centre – November 3rd and 4th http://www.warwickartscentre.co.uk/
Wycombe Swan – November 10th & 11th http://www.wycombeswan.co.uk/
Northern Stage – Newcastle – November – 13th & 14th http://www.northernstage.co.uk/
Wyvern Theatre – Swindon – November 17th & 18th http://www.wyverntheatre.org.uk/
The Lowry – Salford – November 21st http://www.thelowry.com/

Posted by Anna Nathanson

New Lowkey Video

In My Lifetime by Lowkey and Wretch 32

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=naNxVih9-88

Check out Lowkey’s new video with Wretch 32 and if you haven’t already, the album ‘Dear Listener’- one of the best UK albums this year, in my opinion. Look out for my interview with Lowkey, happening soon, and find out more on shows etc. on www.myspace.com/lowkeyuk and www.twitter.com/lowkeyuk

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Musicians check out this opportunity NOW!

HEAVY OPPORTUNITY.........DON'T FLOP....DEADLINE MONDAY 27TH (postmarked on Monday, you got time)

Written by Tor

REDBULL MUSIC ACADEMY (For all music, Dance, Electro, Hip hop, Classical, Dubstep etc)

I had to come and tell ALL my music mates about this HEAVY opportunity. I'll make it simple.....those of you who are smart will take a look and apply......It's a crazy opportunity to get links and connect with the most important, press, promo and industry contacts from the London and International scene. Apply from anywhere in the country (or world....my Japan and U.S fam...holla) and get an all expenses trip and apartment for two weeks, vibe with like minded artists, make tunes, perform in the capitals musical hotspots, get input, vibe and make tunes with BIG artists, the lot cuzzie.

I did the Academy and got skooled by:
Just Blaze
Derrick May
Phonte Coleman (Little Brother)
Waajeed (PPP/Bling 47)

Lecturers have included:
M.I.A
Questlove
Benga
Skream
Ty
Sway
Gillies Peterson
J-Roc

People who have applied and took part in the last few years:
Flying Lotus
Mr Hudson
Goldielocks
Oddisee
Aloe Blacc
and meeee........Get the point....your seriously slippin' if you miss out on this. BBC and mainstream press are involved in this two week festival, you'll have all the industry links you need deeeyaahh in your lap!!! And if you still think you too big for it....it's all good, someone else wants it. DEADLINE MONDAY 27TH....HURRY!This is the BIGGEST hook up I can give to anyone!!! See for yourself....P.s Did I mention it's free?

WATCH VIDEO AND DOWNLOAD FORM HERE:

www.redbullmusicadademy.com

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Anna Nathanson's new blog

Hey guys,

This is a message from the editor. As well as running this blog, I will also now be running my own personal blog www.annanathanson.wordpress.com which will have more personal perspectives, although I will continue to update this one as well. Check out one of my first blog entries below, from a few days ago:

Meeting Raekwon

Just had the most surreal experience this evening! Went to interview Raekwon from the Wu Tang Clan, and Soneni came too and filmed it, and what was meant to be a one-hour slot turned into three and a half hours of hanging out with the veteran rapper and his manager Mel!

We arrived at 4.30pm at the Marble Arch hotel, and Cookie who organised everything was amazing, making us feel really welcome and offering us a cup of tea which I felt guilty for having as it was nearly a fiver! We were then introduced to Mel, who happily shared his drinks and told us all about the early days of Wu at the start of the nineties, some interesting perspectives and some insider goss on Jay Z, who he went to school with; all fascinating stuff!
He then gave us a sneak preview of the entire 24-track album two months prior to its release in the UK, talking us through each track!

After that it was time to meet Rae, who we immediately warmed too with his welcoming presence and friendly, down to earth demeanor. Believe it or not he was watching Big Brother when we walked in, admitting that he watches it “a bit”. He spoke of the follow up to his 1995 monumental rap classic ‘Only Built 4 Cuban Linx’, why it had taken so long and what feedback he expects this time around. Without giving too much away, The Chef has done it again, you won’t be disappointed people!

Raekwon was the nicest celeb you could meet, far from the stereotype of the unapproachable rapper you might have expected. In fact, perhaps the friendliest I have ever interviewed, a place previously occupied by the lovely Beverly Knight. After the interview we continued to chat, and I put poor Soneni on the spot by making her sing acapella in front of Rae! “That’s my next new artist!” he said when she’d finished, singing her praises and agreeing to a collaboration and offering lots of advice. He even bigged up little ol’ me, saying I was “amazing” and that I “know my hip hop”! Before we finally left, he gave us his number and email address and said he’d definitely stay in touch! “I wasn’t expecting two ladies to walk in, y’all have mad energy!” he added as we left. What a crazy evening!

Full interview coming soon…

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Soneni

Multi-talented artist Soneni is all at once a singer, songwriter, lyricist and poet. She has been musically active now for over a decade, penning her first song at the age of twelve and going on to perform extensively on the London and Brighton open mic circuit. The 25 year old says of her music; “it’s a cocktail of my life’s stories and journeys, of the poetry that’s come with that, and the lessons learnt”. London born with Zimbabwean roots, the artist has an array of musical influences, as diverse as Nas, Queen, Miriam Makeba, to Laryn Hill and Richard Ashcroft. “I like musicians who have something to say but can entertain you at the same time”, she states.

After years of perfecting her craft, Soneni now releases her debut single Starstruck, which has been described by DJ Ras Kwame as a “sublime piece of soulful house". In late 2008, this very song was not only broadcast on BBC 1xtra, but selected out of hundreds of tracks to be one of three songs used as part of the BBC 1xtra HomeGrown podcast, distributed to around 20,000 listeners. “I’ve got a lot of love for them for that support, it was a real confidence boost”, says Soneni. “My goal is to uplift and inspire, but also to convey a message. I feel that I’ve been given a gift with my music and I want to share it with as many people as possible”.

StarStruck is out now on itunes

www.myspace.com/sonenimusic
www.youtube.com/sonenimusic
www.twitter.com/sonenimusic

Posted by Anna Nathanson

The Game in concert

SEVENTY ENTERTAINMENT

PRESENTS

THE GAME

FRIDAY 17TH JULY 2009

AT

HMV HAMMERSMITH APOLLO


TICKETS ARE £22.50

AVAILABLE TO BUY NOW FROM THIS DIRECT LINK:

http://www.seventystore.com/

Posted by Anna Nathanson

www.annanathanson.net

Flo Rida Live at Birmingham 02 Academy

Seventy Entertainment are proud to present Flo Rida live in concert at 02 Academy Birmingham

Monday 13th July 2009
02 Academy Birmingham
52-54 Dale End
Birmingham
B4 7LS

Box Office Details: 08444 77 2000 (24 Hour)
Or Email: mail@02academybirmingham.co.uk

Doors open at 7.30pm

http://www.seventyentertainment.com/
http://www.thehiphopvillage.com/


Posted by Anna Nathanson

Michael Jackson 29/08/1958 – 25/06/2009

Big Smoke, like everyone else all over the world, has been deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of the legend that is Michael Jackson, which has dominated the news today.

Marsha Gosho Oakes was at a U-N-I gig in London when the news broke last night. She describes on her website http://www.soulculture.co.uk/;

"They moonwalked during their set. Two songs later, the entire room (including rappers Chipmunk and Sway) finds out about Michael Jackson’s death. Nuts. They stop their set and play a tribute to MJ…"

Marsha captured this footage of the moment:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVVwAMsrp0M

Video by Marsha Gosho Oakes @ http://www.soulculture.co.uk/

RIP MICHAEL JACKSON, YOUR LEGACY WILL NEVER DIE

Posted by Anna Nathanson

See ?uestlove this Saturday

Soundcrash @ Cargo

with
QUESTLOVE (?uestlove)
plus
Speakers Corner Quartet
DJ Cheeba (Solid Steel/Live AV set)
Left Step Band

Sat 13th June @ Cargo
8pm - 3am
£6 before 9, £12 after

www.ticketweb.co.uk
www.cargo-london.com

With time edging closer still to mid-summer's night what better place to spend an eve than the beautiful timbered yard of Shoreditch's premier drinking hole, accompanied by some of the fine musical talent on offer courtesy of Soundcrash? With a hip-hop superstar sharing the stage with some well versed Ninja Tuners and a deft Bristolian our June clubnight is set to continue our 2009 tradition of high-quality tunage.

Founder member, drummer and DJ of THE best live hip-hop band of all time Questlove (aka Brother Question) comes from a highly-educated musical background that is all too apparent in the eclectic styles of The Roots. Crossing the Atlantic for one night only, just for us, ?uestlove is taking to the decks to demonstrate hip-hop as he sees it, and we can all expect to learn a thing or two from this grand master.

Also along for the celebrations are live hip-hop/jazz combo Speakers Corner Quartet, with their ground-breaking take on live beat-making and deft instumentalism, DJ Cheeba with his fantastic AV set, showing just what can be done with Serato, a TV and some imagination, and old favourites Left Step Band funking up the place our June night is set to be an pedagogic party with sun, sounds and sights to feed your souls.

www.myspace.com/questlove

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Nemesis & Arrogance Performance Tomorrow

NEMESIS & ARROGANCE - DA REAL SHO MIXTAPE LAUNCH

@ THE CARHARTT OUTLET STORE [HACKNEY]

THURSDAY 11th JUNE 18:30pm – 21:30pm

18 ELLINGFORT RD
HACKNEY
E8 3PA

PERFORMING ON THE NIGHT:

NEMESIS & ARROGANCE
MR TI2BS
JELLUZZ
F.L.I.P [SUPAR NOVAR, BIG BEN & RAPPER RAGZ]
SUGAR DZL
INNERCIRCUIT
TWIN BLU TAC
STARRY DAYZ

ALL BACKED BY LIVE HIP HOP BAND – LAZY HABITS!!!!

PLUS VERY VERY VERY SPECIAL GUESTS

DJ 'S ON THE NIGHT:

FORM
CHARLEE BROWN

Da Real Sho – Out Now!!!

Featuring: Sincere / Wretch 32 / Faith SFX / Bashy / Mr Drastick / Skinnyman & others...

The North London Hip Hop duo NEMESIS & ARROGANCE have been working hard for some time now releasing their debut album last year and underground smash single ‘CHANGE YOUR HEART’ ft SKINNYMAN. With the unquestionable quality of their latest offering DA REAL SHO, they stand to start seeing some of that hard work pay off.

This pirate radio-themed project, spawned from their popular show of the same name and features a breathtaking list of talent including: BASHY, WRETCH 32, SKINNYMAN, SINCERE, FLIRTA D, FAITH SFX, MR TI2BS, MR DRASTICK, SUPAR NOVAR, JELLUZZ, NUTTY P, SUGA DZL, LAZY HABITS, MARK HENRY, BIG BEN and many more...

NEMESIS received his first break when he was spotted by the KEMET ENTERTAINMENT RECORDS [KLASHNEKOFF] label team who invited him to host DJ FILP [MUD FAMILY] weekly ITCH FM show. Him and ARROGANCE first met through a mutual friend, excited by ARROGANCES extreme lyrical ability he invited him in the studio to lace some tracks and it was during these initial sessions that an impenetrable partnership was born.

The pair officially formed a duo when they begun to host their own ITCH FM show called TUESDAY TUNE IN, the format was extremely successful, receiving up to five hundred calls an hour at the height of it’s popularity. The show ended in 2005 when NEMESIS had to move to Brighton to study music production.

During this period NEMESIS & ARROGANCE continued to record and produce together. Culminating in the release of their independent debut album ‘LEND ME YOUR EARS’, which created an underground buzz with the success of the first two singles, ‘CHANGE YOUR HEART’ Feat. SKINNYMAN & ‘NO PEACE’, which between them received airplay on BBC RADIO 1, BBC 1XTRA, KISS FM, CHOICE FM, ITCH FM, PYRORADIO.COM & HHBRADIO.COM, heavy music video rotation on CHANNEL U & MTV BASE and positive reviews in RWD MAGAZINE, HIP HOP CONNECTION, BIG SMOKE and DJ MAGAZINE, in which we were compared to ‘GOODIE MOB or early OUTKAST’.

It was off the back of the ‘CHANGE YOUR HEART’ single that the pair found themselves on a national UK tour alongside SKINNYMAN, performing at MINISTRY OF SOUND, FABRIC and venues across the country from Limington Spar, Newquay, Oxford, Bristol, Brighton and many many more opening up for the legendary SUGAR HILL GANG along the way!!

This momentum propelled the pair back to their spiritual home on the radio and alongside DJ FORM ‘DA REAL SHO’ was born.

The first single taken from DA REAL SHO, is this massive - LIVE FROM THE CAPITAL - Featuring fellow north Londoner JELLUZZ and STARRY DAYZ, DA REAL SHO is out NOW on REAL RECORDS.

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Kyza @ Jazz Cafe this Friday!

KYZA & FOCUSED FEW // DAJLA // GENTLEMAN'S DUB CLUB // RANKING RECORDS DJ's // DJ NONAMES, ORIFICE VULGATRON

Friday 12th june sees Kyza's long awaited Project SHOTS OF SMIRNOFF stratospheric launch at London's prestigous Jazz Cafe...

More than your average rap showcase, Kyza will be performing with The Focused Few live band & Foreign Beggars own Dj Nonames & Pravvy Prav on the beats. Y'all seriously need to come see this show, they've been cooking up a storm for a minute now, band members include ex Roots Manuva/Lotek Hi Fi/Plantlfe members and is off the chiaaaiin!!

And if that ain't enough, there'll be none other than one of France's finest exports, Dajla and Benji, pioneers of the Soul Poetry movement gracing us with an exclusive London showcase...
To top it all off there will be one of the most hyped bands out there, fresh from performing with the likes of The Wailers, The Bays and Finley Quaye...GENTLEMAN'S DUB CLUB...wow
Ranking Records Dj's Ruckspin & Planas and DJ Nonames tearing out the Dubstep to see you through!

please see below for the facebook link:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=62499574913&ref=ts

Tickets available here
http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/event/1F00427BB7EE8391?artistid=988416&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=1

Posted by Anna Nathanson

DMC UK DJ Final and Battle For UK Supremacy

02 Academy Islington, N1 Centre, N1 0PS
Thursday 9th July 7pm – Midnight

Plus Live PA's from:
+JEHST
+DMC World Champions DJ SWITCH V DJ SHIFTEE in a UK V US Showcase Battle
+INJA performing his brand new single ‘Hat Low' live featuring SKINNYMAN
+Hosted by INJA and BILLY BIZNIZZ

For 25 incredible boundary pushing, trend setting, scratched, cut and mixed years, the world's largest DJ organization, DMC, has been the authority on the DJ battle. The DMC's annual World DJ Championship competition brings together the world's brightest DJ talents, vetted by a series of gruelling global heats. By doing so, DMC continues to host one of the most entertaining and jaw dropping shows you will ever witness. This year's show is no different. In the 25th Anniversary of this prestigious competition, DMC is bigger than ever…

Kicking off 2009's UK events, the UK DJ Final and Battle For UK Supremacy takes place at the 02 Academy Islington on Thursday 9th July with the winners going head to head with the best in the world at the World DJ Championships at the Indig02 on September 11th and 12th.

To become a DMC World Champion, DJs around the world use techniques such as scratching and cutting to manipulate turntables and vinyl in order to create their own musical arrangements, performing live in front of an enthusiastic audience filled with both the extremely knowledgeable DMC fans and lucky newcomers being initiated to this fantastic contest.

The standards will be set on the night as two previous DMC World Champions collaborate for an amazing dual display of battling in its purest, most ferocious essence as DJ Switch and DJ Shiftee take to the wheels of steel to show how it's done.

With World Championship winners over the years including the superstar likes of the Scratch Perverts, A-Trak (Kanye West's DJ), Q Bert, Craze and Mixmaster Mike (Beastie Boys), fame and respect could well accompany the bountiful prizes on offer. And speaking of prizes - a veritable treasure trove awaits the winner. Full details of the prizes are yet to be announced, but there have been confirmed goodies provided by sponsors Calvin Klein.

In between the turntable mastery, the one and only Jehst will be performing an extremely special set in anticipation of his forthcoming album. He will be joined by Micall Parknsun, performing his banging new single ‘All 4 Hip-Hop' and former DMC competitor DJ Jazz T. Charismatic host Inja will also be launching his brand new smash single ‘Hat Low' exclusively at the DMCs, featuring a special live guest appearance from the incredible SkinnyMan.

The Battle for UK Supremacy will also take place on the night, where past UK Champs go head-to-head for a place to compete in the Champions League of the DJ world in September, a competition that will determine who goes home as the universal winner of all winners…

DMC: A Brief History
From its humble DJ record service beginnings in the early 80s, to establishing magazines, a street wear brand and music compilation CDs [including Back to Mine, described by NME magazine as 'probably the greatest compilation series ever'], DMC has been vital in the growth of the DJ as a highly influential modern day cultural icon.

DMC redefined the role and image of the turntablist, believing strongly in the idea that the DJ could create something new and exciting armed with nothing but two decks, a mixer and healthy selection of vinyl. 25 years of hard fought battles later, and DMC has built an army of dedicated followers worldwide, housing successful branches and competitions in 25 countries. In the UK, host venues have included The Royal Albert Hall, Wembley Arena ,The Millennium Dome, Brixton Academy and the Hammersmith Apollo. Whilst the Championship Finals were staged internationally in Italy, Paris and New York, the spiritual home for the DMC World DJ Championship has become London. With DMC making appearances everywhere from Richard and Judy and Blue Peter to MTV and even being entwined within the plot of an episode of CSI: NY, it is clear to see the organization's impact on popular culture.

Many great names have taken part over the years and are now etched forever within the historic visual series of DVD's and on the DMCWORLD.COM web site's DMC Hall of Fame. The inspirational performances of the world champions have advanced the art of turntablism and go down in the history books for pushing the limits of what humans can do with technology.

2009's UK Finalists battling it out for a coveted place in September's World Finals are to be announced as soon as all the regional finals are finished.


www.dmcworld.com

Tickets - £12.50 available from
http://www.dmcworld.com/ (01628 667124)
http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/ 0844 477 2000
http://www.o2academyislington.co.uk/

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Raekwon new album!

Raekwon gushes that ‘the wait is finally over’ for new album Only Built 4 Cuban Linx 2...

The Wu-Tang Clan Rapper has signed a deal with EMI music services to release his hotly anticipated follow-up to his 1995 hip-hop classic this summer!

Only Built 4 Cuban Linx 2 features Dr. Dre, J Dilla, The RZA and others.

Ready to give his worldwide following what they’ve been waiting for, the Wu-Tang Clan’s rhyme slinger extraordinaire Raekwon is set to return this summer with Only Built 4 Cuban Linx 2.

Raekwon, whose 1995 classic Only Built 4 Cuban Linx was universally hailed as a rap classic and has SoundScanned more than 1.1 million units, has signed a distribution deal with EMI Music Services for his ICEH20 Records to release Only Built 4 Cuban Linx 2.

“The wait is finally over,” Raekwon says, “Words cannot describe how extremely happy I am to have EMI Music as a home for my album.”

Only Built 4 Cuban Linx 2 buzz single and video “The New Wu” features fellow Wu-Tang Clan members Method Man and Ghostface Killah and is getting mixshow airplay at radio stations across the country, including Hot 97 in New York. The album features a spectacular line-up of guest appearances and producers: The RZA, Dr. Dre, J Dilla, The Wu-Tang Clan, Jadakiss, Busta Rhymes, Bun B and The Game, among others.

Rap fans were mesmerized by Raekwon’s distinctive brand of street slanguistics when he emerged as a member of the Wu-Tang Clan. The Staten Island, New York rap group’s debut album, 1993’s Enter The Wu-Tang Clan (36 Chambers), was a landmark collection that introduced the group’s signature blend of kung-fu inspired reality rap. Raekwon established himself as a solo star in 1995 with the release of Only Built 4 Cuban Linx. The mafia minded album, which peaked at No. 2 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Album chart, unfolded like a cinematic crime caper, with such imaginative songs as “Criminology,” “Incarcerated Scarfaces” and “Ice Cream” propelling the album to platinum status.

Raekwon’s second album, 1999’s Immobilarity, was certified gold. To date, Raekwon has SoundScanned more than 1.6 million units.

Now, with the impending release of Only Built 4 Cuban Linx 2, Raekwon is ready to release his second masterpiece. “It’s been a long time coming,” he says, “and I’ve put my blood, sweat and tears into making this classic album for my fans.”

ALBUM AUGUST TBC

Posted by Anna Nathanson

New Paul Wall album out

Paul Wall

The Fast Life

Released on Swisha House/Asylum

Out Now!

Paul Wall grew up in Houston with a devout passion for music. Wall was one of Texas's most successful independent musicians, with releases like "The Chick Magnet", "How to be a Player" and his group albums with fellow Texan Chamillionaire such as "Get ya Mind Correct" and "Controversy Sells". His independent success earned him a major record deal with Swisha House Records' joint venture with Atlantic Records.

Wall's 2005 national debut "The People’s Champ" debuted in Billboard Magazine’s Top 200 at the number 1 spot and quickly reached Platinum status. Paul Wall was instrumental in taking Texas Hip Hop to the National level. His 2007 release "Get Money Stay True" debuted as the number 1 rap album in Billboard Magazine and quickly approached Gold status. His 2007 Honda Civic Tour with Fall out Boy widely expanded his fan base, as well as the 2006 Dub Car Show Tour.

In 2005 Wall was nominated for a Grammy with the number 1 hit song "Grillz" along with Nelly, Ali and Gipp. The song sparked a global trend for the diamond encrusted gold (grillz) caps for which Paul is famous for making and selling to various celebrities that include Kanye West, P Diddy, Ashton Kutcher, Lil Wayne, Venus and Serena Williams plus many others.

Wall also modelled in the national campaign for Reebok's Artic 5 trainers and also for Avirex Clothing throughout 2007. In the spring of 2008, Paul Wall joined Strange Music recording artist Tech N9ne on a nationwide tour, which also featured Brooklyn rapper ILL BILL. He is currently a member of the diverse group Expensive Taste which includes Travis Barker (Blink – 182) and Skinhead Rob (The Transplants). The group also released a clothing line in which Paul Wall is a co owner and founder.

Wall has just released his 3^rd major label album "The Fast Life". Featuring the first single “Bizzy Body” featuring Webbie and Mouse the video premiered on Myspace on Friday 27^th March. Too $hort, Skinhead Rob, Tech N9Ne and Young Joc, and Z-Ro also feature on The Fast Life. When asked about “The Fast Life” album Paul replied “Its straight hood stuff, but we got some different stuff that I haven’t done before people are gonna like it when they hear it. My homeboy Travis Barker he jumped down and did a lot of production with me we had a lot of fun in the studio.”

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Devin the Dude and Sway live!

Devin the Dude and Sway

Monday May 4th

Live @ The Luminaire

311 Kilburn High Road
London NW6 7JR

Tickets £10 in advance or £12 on the door

Get your tickets now @ www.theluminaire.co.uk

Posted by Anna Nathanson

New Boy Better Know

Boy Better Know

18 May 2009

2008 was the official ‘Year of the Rolex’. Wiley’s Wearing My Rolex (Eskibeat) stormed the charts to number 2 with remixes by Hot Chip and a collaboration with Mark Ronson.

The craze continued when Skepta (Boy Better Know) gave the nation the moves to match catchy bars with Rolex Sweep. Cue an International celebrity craze as Busta Rhymes and Paul O'Grady attempted to recreate the steps, Coldplay's Chris Martin performed his own rendition during a gig in Brixton Mass and Timmy Mallett created The Boy Better Know 'Sweep Show'!

The two influential MC’s entered 2009 with a new commercial and widespread appeal whilst still being true to their underground roots, and now Boy Better Know return with Too Many Man, and official chant of the Summer! Produced by Skepta, he along with: Wiley, JME, Frisco and Shorty are beckoning to bring the girls back to the clubs!

New single Too Many Man is released 18 May 2009 and also features on Skepta’s Microphone Champion and Wiley’s Race Against Time, both albums released on 1 June 2009.

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Slickmouth 'Superstar'

After setting the international Hip-Hop world alight with his brilliant single ‘I Made It’ we finally get the much anticipated full album release ‘Superstar’ from Californian raised Slickmouth. This is a twenty track album that is definitely going to put Slickmouth where he disorderedly needs to be. He is a talented performer, songwriter and recording artist who is bringing something new and refreshing to the game. As you’ll agree Slickmouth is destined for big things and with support already from DJ’s all over the UK, Belgium, Germany, Croatia and Sweden, as well as support from tastemakers here in the UK and America, its only a matter of time before those A&R’s will be knocking at his door.

Tracklisting

01 - Slickmouth - Universal Soul Music
02 - Slickmouth - Im Back
03 - Slickmouth - Touch Down
04 - Slickmouth - Don't Be Mad
05 - Slickmouth - I Made It
06 - Slickmouth - Hot Fire
07 - Slickmouth - Superstar
08 - Slickmouth - Space Age Music
09 - Slickmouth - So Fly
10 - Slickmouth Feat Nathaniel - Bad Girl
11 - Slickmouth Feat Nathaniel - Around The World
12 - Slickmouth - Music
13 - Slickmouth Feat Nathaniel - I Love Her
14 - Slickmouth - Bare Your Soul
15 - Slickmouth - Never Give Up
16 - Slickmouth - Speak Up
17 - Slickmouth - How Many
18 - Slickmouth - You Make Me High
19 - Slickmouth - One In A Million
20 - Slickmouth - The Last Show

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Yung

YUNG

Unconditional Hustle

MKD Recordings/The Hip Hop Village/RGS Entertainment

The unique talents of London based Rapper, "YUNG" (formally known as Yungblud and mostly known for his early work with UK rap cartel MKD), has now teamed up with the credible producer S.Chu, of Rawheed to bring you his debut street mix CD titled “Unconditional Hustle”.

Unlike most Hip Hop releases circulating the industry at present, “Unconditional Hustle” displays a layout of strong sounding tracks from tip to tail, in which YUNG proves himself to be one of the most agile and versatile up and coming street lyricists within the UK Rap industry to date.

The music composition stems from well known producers such as S.Chu, who has worked with artists such as Loudmouth, Smasher and Kano...
Other feature producers include Wizard, 7th Dan of MKD and Mikey J (Rawheed) who is known most recently for Kano's 'Hustler' track. Additional features include YUNG who debuts his own production skills.

Fellow MKD rappers Major and T-Lo provide their lyrical skills alongside San Man, The Colony (Conspicuous the Coroner and Cobane) Ice man, Shortman and Shameless. Vocalist and Songwriter Xara also features her credits include, hit single “Complete” (Jaimeson) and new Funky House track “You got me”.

“Unconditional Hustle” promises to be a must have for any UK Hip Hop lover and will act as a prelude for all up and coming work from this talented 'no holes barred' artist.

www.myspace.com/yungbludmkd

Posted by Anna Nathanson

DJ Vadim New Material

DJ VADIM

HIDDEN TREASURE ft. Sabira Jade

Label: BBE

Release Date: APRIL 27th 2009

In with a bang, Hidden Treasure is the 1st single from DJ Vadims new album U Cant Lurn Imaginashun, is a hold on to your seat, white-knuckle rollercoaster of a track that combining the rawness of Ska, jump-up party vibes, and spine tingling vocals from the effervescent, girl-next-door, voice you wont-know-how-you-lived-without, Sabira Jade; Hidden Treasure drags you kicking and screaming out of the ordinary. Commercial, yes, accessible, yes, but this is independent music and proud of it.

DJ Vadim, a man who this year conquered cancer has dug deep, learned new skills and used his imagination to produce his best work yet. This first glimpse of the fresh sounds from this reinvigorated master of the international, dynamic and exciting independent music scene is a fast paced double time ode to good times, good people, freedom and adventure.

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Legends of Hip Hop

The Doctor’s Orders & The Jazz café present

“LEGENDS OF HIP-HOP”

Diamond D (Diggin In The Crates / Super producer & emcee) & Sadat X (Brand Nubian)

Warm up set by Spin Doctor

WED 6TH MAY @ JAZZ CAFÉ
5 Parkway, Camden, London, NW1 7PG

£16.50 In advance

http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/event/1F004238D7D04F5A?artistid=980781&majorcatid=10001&minorcatid=202

DIAMOND D

Legendary emcee, producer, deejay and founding member of legendary New York crew, Diggin' In The Crates (D.I.T.C.) Diamond D has contributed his trademark style to some of the most iconic records in hip-hop including The Fugees' "The Score," and A Tribe Called Quest's "The Low End Theory" and many more. In 1992, he recorded his first solo album, the hip hop classic, "Stunts, Blunts& Hip-Hop" which shifted upwards of 105,000 units.

Following this success Diamond D lent his production skills to A-list independent talent as: Mos Def, Xzibit, Pharaoh Monch, KRS-One, House of Pain, the Pharcyde, Sadat X & many more.

His second solo offering,1997's "Hatred, Passions & Infidelity," featured appearances from such luminaries as Busta Rhymes, Phife Dawg and Pete Rock.

From there he went on to establish “Diggin In The Crates” as a collective of the most talented producers and MC’s in New York through combining the skills of the likes of Showbiz & AG, Big L, Fat Joe, Buckshot & DJ Premier into a Hip-Hop dream team that produced underground club bangers for fun.

Diamond D returns with his latest joint "The Hugh Hefner Chronicles" a rare and coveted glimpseinto the life of an industry veteran, with a little help from Sadat X and production by Nottz,DJ Scratch, J Dilla, illmindz & 45 King.

SADAT X

Few artists in hip-hop have afforded the longevity that Sadat X has. Unmoved by an inevitable changing of the guard in Rap, the X-Man remains a beacon of true, un-facsimiled artistry. In so many words, he sits atop the lists of your favorite rappers favorite rapper.

Its like his time as a child confined to the other side of the street or his uncles car, watching Cold Crush or Kool Herc park jams, molded Sadat into the respected person & and wholly unique emcee he is today.

Where so many of his peers have faded into obscurity, his undeniable twang has commanded songs not just as 1/3rd of the fabled Brand Nubian but alongside legends from Jay Z, Notorious B.I.G., Nas, & Common (to name a few) has seen his light keep shining. His popularity is still undeniable as he has been tapped by the likes of popular singer/songwriter Jack Johnson, legendary House-producer Miguel Migs and old-schooler MC Lyte all in recent months for collaborations on their respected albums.Having already wowed The Doctor’s Order’s faithful at On The Real he is back in London once more to throw it down as only the Wild Cowboy can.

UPCOMING SHOWS FROM THE DOCTOR'S ORDERS

Friday 3rd April: The Doctor's Orders @ Herbal:
Royce Da 5'9"/ Killa Kela / Sarah Love / Spin Doctor / Asaviour & IQ / DJ Kayper

Easter Sunday 12th April: The Connection Album Launch Boat Party on The Golden Jubilee
Bobbito Garcia / Rich Medina / Spin Doctor / Kyri R2

Friday 17th April: On The Real @ Plan B:
Shortee Blitz / DJ MK / Spin Doctor / Snuff / Trill LondonFriday 1st May: The Doctor's Orders @ HerbalWaajeed / Benji B / Spin Doctor / Mr Thing / Morgan Spacek / Bruce Wayne

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Breakin' Convention '09

Breakin’ Convention 09

UK Tour

The Sixth Annual International Festival of Hip Hop Dance Theatre

Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Rosebery Avenue, EC1R 4TN

Saturday 2 – Bank Holiday Monday 4 May 2009, then touring

1 Day Ticket: £20/£12, 2 Day Ticket: £32/£18, 3 Day Ticket: £48/£27

Ticket office: 0844 412 4300 or www.sadlerswells.com

“The 2008 edition of Breakin’ Convention will be remembered as the year that Sadler’s Wells’ annual hip-hop dance theatre festival grew up.” **** The Times

“One helluva weekend” Time Out

Fast becoming a globally renowned event, Sadler’s Wells international hip hop dance theatre festival, Breakin’ Convention, returns to host some of the world’s hottest poppers, lockers, b-boys and b-girls across May Bank Holiday 2009, as part of a UK-wide tour. Key cities include Edinburgh, Birmingham, Nottingham, Bradford, Newcastle, Wycombe, Salford and Plymouth.

In London, a jam-packed three days of performances, workshops, film screenings, DJ demonstrations and graffiti exhibitions, the sixth annual Breakin’ Convention takes place at Sadler’s Wells from Saturday 2 to Bank Holiday Monday 4 May 2009, before embarking on a nation-wide tour. Curated and directed by Sadler's Wells Associate Artist Jonzi D, the festival includes artists from Korea, France, and USA as well as the cream of the UK’s hottest hip hop dance talent.

With performers still to be announced, Breakin’ Convention’s tour headline acts, Ken Swift, Salah and MyoSung are already confirmed. Performing for the first time in the UK, Ken Swift and his crew, VII Gems Rock Dance Division, bring their legendary style to Breakin’ Convention 09 with Rockin’ It. A true pioneer in Hip Hop dance, Kenny "Ken Swift" Gabbert is considered the epitome of a B Boy. A world-renowned driving force in Hip Hop dance for 30 years, amongst his many credits he's appeared in classic films Style Wars, Beat Street and Flashdance.

“Hip-Hop to make your jaw drop” The Evening Standard

Affectionately known as the ‘Charlie Chaplin of Hip Hop’, Salah is one of the best known hip hop dance performers of this generation and has won numerous major dance contests worldwide as a master of popping, locking and breaking and freestyle. His recent victory on French TV Show Incroyable Talent has now made him a household name in Europe. He returns to the Sadler’s Wells stage with The Dream of Gluby, first performed in the UK at Breakin’ Convention 07.
MyoSung is an award-winning and much-lauded troupe of dancers based in Seoul, Korea, arguably the best B Boying nation in the world. MyoSung present an electrifying group of talented young B Boys in The Revolution will not be Institutionalised, a piece of dance with a powerful political message told with humour and sensitivity.

Following the Bank Holiday Weekend festival at Sadler’s Wells, Breakin Convention 09 is touring the UK in May at 8 venues nationwide including Birmingham, Edinburgh, Newcastle and Salford.

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Hasan Salaam/Speaker's Corner Quartet/Snuff

SATURDAY MARCH 21st..
Concert: 7pm-11pm
Club Session: 11pm-3am..
Venue: The 100 Club/100 Oxford Street/W1D 1LL
Online Bookings: http://www.seetickets.com
Nearest Station: Oxford Circus

LIVE IN CONCERT!!
7pm-11pm [£12.50 Atd/£10 list]

HASAN SALAAM [NYC] + SPEAKERS CORNER QUARTET [London] + DJ SNUFF [EODub.com]

Featuring an exclusive combo set between London's own mighty Speakers Corner Quartet and New York City's most gifted mic intelect...

**CONCERT INCLUDES FREE ENTRY TO EODub Club SESSION WITH CONCERT TICKET!**DJ Jazz T & DJ Snuff [EODub.com] + Guest from EODub/Peoples Army/Rebel Muzik

HASAN SALAAM...Fresh from touring with Redman & Immortal Technique across the USA...

http://www.hasansalaammusic.com
http://www.myspace.com/hasansalaam
http://www.myspace.com/speakerscornerquartet
http://eodub.com
http://www.myspace.com/EndOftheWeakUK
http://www.myspace.com/ThePeoplesArmy2008

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Jazmine Sullivan

Jazmine Sullivan

'Dream Big'

March 30th 2009

Columbia Records / J Records

Jazmine Sullivan will release a new single 'DREAM BIG' on March 30th on Columbia Records/J Records in the UK. The track which samples Daft Punk's 'Veridis Quo' was produced by Missy Elliot and features on 'FEARLESS', her forthcoming debut album which will be released in the UK in June 2009.

FEARLESS is already taking the US by storm where it was nominated for 5 Grammy awards. It debuted at No. 1; beating out Ne-Yo for the top spot on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart & at No. 6 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums chart and has already sold 300,000 copies in the US.

The US chart-topping debut of FEARLESS is further indication that Jazmine’s signature style is long overdue. “It’s been a long time since a debut artist has brought as much drama” cites USA Today’s review; while People’s Critic’s Choice review declares that FEARLESS is the “African-American answer to Amy Winehouse’s Back to Black.” Sparking the high chart entry is Sullivan’s debut single “Need U Bad” which reached the No. 1 position on Billboard’s Mainstream R&B/Hip-Hop, Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay charts and made her the first female in almost four years – and only the 8th this decade - to achieve this feat. Jazmine is currently touring the US with Ne-Yo and will hit the UK for live shows later this year.

Dream Big is set to light up dancefloors across the country and is an amazing introduction to one of the most talented new artists to emerge stateside for many years.

Posted by Anna Nathanson

Scratched Out

R&D Productions presents...
SCRATCHED OUT: THE URBAN MUSICAL
Previews at Oval House Theatre
2nd, 3rd, 4th April 2009
Performances at Riverside Studios
6th - 8th April, 17th - 19th April, 27th - 30th April 2009

“The future of Musical Theatre” Tim Saward (MusicalTalk.co.uk)

“Beyond all our expectations” Paul Clement (Principal of Mountview Academy)

“I would highly recommend ‘Scratched Out’. Its sincerity is unbeatable, and whilst this passionate musical does not shy away from difficult truths it is also very entertaining. I left feeling determined to contribute to positive change.” Naomi Woddis (Curses and Riots)

R&D Productions ‘Scratched Out’ was a sell out success at Lyric Theatre Hammersmith in July 2008. Due to popular demand Riverside Studios and Oval House Theatre have invited R&D Productions to develop this inspired piece of theatre with the support of Hammersmith & Fulham Council and Thames Community Foundation.

‘Scratched Out’ is an Urban Musical about six young people from an inner-city estate who all have ambitions of making it in the music industry. The story takes place during the course of one evening at a pirate radio station and a club. As the records spin, the drama unfolds revealing the soundtrack to a night that will permanently change the lives of these six characters.

This is a brand new production with an original Musical Theatre, R&B, Hip Hop, Classical and Grime score by Richard Hale (DJ Halo) and lyrics by award-winning writer Dean Atta.

The subject matter of this production covers issues that are relevant to young people and are delivered in an eye-catching and creative way that they can relate to. The themes of ‘Scratched Out’ and the personal stories of the featured young artists (singers, rappers and poets) in the cast are highly inspirational and positive, and their aim is to channel this across to the audience in an empowering and uplifting message.

RIVERSIDE STUDIOS, Crisp Road, Hammersmith, London W6 9RL
020 8237 1111 · www.riversidestudios.co.uk

PERFORMANCES:
6th, 7th, 8th April, 17th, 18th, 19th April, 27th, 28th, 29th, 30th April 2009

TIMES: 7.30PM

TICKET PRICES: £12.00 [FULL] & £6.00 [CONCESSION]

TICKETS SHOULD BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE VIA THE VENUE BOX OFFICE.

OVAL HOUSE THEATRE, 52-54 Kennington Oval, London SE11 5SW
020 7582 7680 · www.ovalhouse.com

PREVIEWS: 2nd, 3rd, 4th April 2009

TIMES: 8.00PM TICKET PRICES: £4.00

TICKETS SHOULD BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE VIA THE VENUE BOX OFFICE.

THERE WILL BE A POST SHOW DISCUSSION AFTER ALL OVAL HOUSE PREVIEWS.

Posted by Anna Nathanson