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Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Malaika’s Tshedi Releases Solo Album

The much anticipated solo album of Tshedi is out now. Titled Victory, it is a culmination of a two year long recording process. Tshedi has finally realized her child hood dream of embarking on a solo music career.

Having begun her journey in music at the tender age of 5, she would come alive whenever she sang. While growing up she developed her vocal abilities in different church choirs, at school and with village traditional gospel choirs which were popular at the time. The resonance of her angelic voice made her an esteemed lead vocalist who was often recruited by all sorts of music groups/bands/choirs who were certain to win singing competitions with Tshedi on board.

"I grew up in an enabling environment where young people were free to experiment with music, dance and acting. Art in general was encouraged. We had fun and this helped a lot to hone my singing talent". Tshedi was also involved with the Mmabana Cultural Centre Jazz Band, through which she got a great chance to represent South Africa at an arts festival in Greece, then not realising that later in life travelling abroad, sharing her talent with the world and living her music dream would become her vocation.

Tshedi rose to fame when she became a member of the multiple award winning Afro Pop group Malaika which took Mzansi by storm in 2004! With Malaika she travelled extensively on the African continent and to many other parts of the world, sharing stages with local and international music icons alike.

With the success of Malaika, a multi-platinum selling group, the pressure on Tshedi to release an album which measures up is expectedly immense. "I gave it my all and have worked with the best songwriters and established hit makers. Through the ten years of my life as a professional musician, the challenges and obstacles I have come across have been set aside resulting in this amazing personal achievement. I feel like a winner who has been in a race against time, all the while believing that one day I will emerge victorious," she enthuses.

Like a mature wine, her new offering delivers on the promise of quality - the highest production standards, musicality, great entertainment value and cohesion in the works. Having travelled Africa over the years and being impacted upon by Pan African sounds, rhythms and music genres.

The 13 track album released on 14 October 2013 by Sony Music, is a collectible for good music lovers. It features songs such as "Umsebenzi" and "This Song" which have been serviced to radio stations as singles, "Jeemboro" featuring Fally Ipupa, "Isithembu" featuring South African music icon Babsy Mlangeni, "Heart Attack" in which she collaborates with Jahseed and "Makale" which she has been performing to wide acclaim. The production team comprises Sipho Sithole, Robbie & Mjakes, Guffy, Babsy Mlangeni, Thaso, DJ Choice and a duo from Angola called The Fahrenheitz.

Saturday, October 5, 2013

FUTURE SHARES SURPRISING OPINION ABOUT DRAKE’S ‘NOTHING WAS THE SAME,’ CLAIMS HIS MUSIC IS ‘BETTER’

Future is opening up on his forthcoming sophomore album, ‘Honest.’ He delves into his personal life, especially about his love for girlfriend Ciara, but he’s also being frank off record too, especially when it comes to his feelings about Drake‘s new LP, ‘Nothing Was the Same.’


“Drake made an album that is full of hits but it doesn’t grab you. They’re not possessive; they don’t make you feel the way I do. I want to make you want to fall in love,” Future tells Billboard in a new interview. With a statement like that, things may get a bit awkward on Would You Like a Tour? — Drake’s tour which Future is featured on along with Miguel.

The Auto-Tune-loving rhymer admits that he is really pushing the emotion card on his ‘Honest’ album. With songs like ‘Good Morning, ‘Side-Effects’ and ‘I’ll Be There Baby,’ he shows off his softer side as well as the height of his sex drive. One song that seems to stand out at the moment is ‘Real & True,’ which is a song he did with Mr. Hudson and Miley Cyrus.

The collaboration between Future and Miley isn’t a new one. According to the rapper, he’s worked on a number of songs for her new LP, ‘Bangerz’ and is even featured on a track. “She’s a big star,” he says of the ‘Wrecking Ball’ singer. “Her MTV performance took it to another level. It’s like she planned it, but she’s going along with whatever is happening.”

Overall, Future is confident in his craft and his collaborations — maybe a little too much. “I’ve been on the songs of all these rappers that put out an album, and my music is still better,” he states.

Tuesday, October 1, 2013

Bryan Adams is returning to SA


Bryan Adams will be returning to South Africa, performing in four cities as part of his Bare Bones World Tour. He'll perform all his hits live in an intimate, unplugged performance starting in Joburg on 25 and 26 January at the Big Top Arena, Carnival City, then one show only in Cape Town on 28 January at the Grand Arena, GrandWest, Port Elizabeth on 29 January at Feather Market, and 31 January, 2014, at the ICC Durban.

Tickets go on sale on Friday, 4 October, 2013, at 9am from Big Concerts and Computicket.

The Bryan Adams Bare Bone Tour provides a rare opportunity for fans to see Bryan Adams as they've not seen him before. This new spin on his classic hits as part of his unplugged tour has been met with rave reviews from critics and fans alike.

Bryan Adams has spent the last three decades making music history. He has sold over 65 million records, toured six continents and achieved number one status in over 40 countries around the world. With hits like Cuts Like A Knife, Summer of '69, Kids Wanna Rock, Can't Stop This Thing We've Started, (Everything I Do) I Do It For You, Open Road and Thought I'd Seen Everything, Adams' status as one of the great songwriters of our time has been solidified with a Grammy Award, 18 Juno Awards and an American Music Award. He has also been nominated for three Academy Awards and five Golden Globes.

His current release, "Bare Bones", is a collection of live recordings culled from the acoustic tour.

Tour itinerary:

  • Saturday, 25 and Sunday, 26 January: Big Top Arena, Carnival City, Joburg. Tickets from R365 to R690 available at Big Concerts and Computicket.
  • Tuesday, 28 January: Grand Arena, Grand West, Cape Town. Tickets from R450 to R680 available at Big Concerts and Computicket.
  • Wednesday, 29 January: Feather Market Centre, Port Elizabeth. Tickets from R450 to R680 available at Computicket.
  • Friday, 31 January: ICC, Durban. Tickets from R300 to R600 available at Computicket.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Kelly Rowland jets into SA for secret event


American R&B superstar and X-Factor USA judge Kelly Rowland arrived in South Africa on Wednesday morning at 08h00 and was welcomed exclusively by celebrity news magazine, heat, at the OR Tambo International Airport.

Rowland is in SA to perform at the housewarming of a mansion businessman Douw Steyn built in Fourways, North of Johannesburg, on Saturday evening.

The party is closed to the public and only a selected list of celebrities and other VIPs have been invited.

Andre Neveling, editor of heat magazine, says: "We’re massive Kelly Rowland fans at heat Towers, so we were thrilled to welcome her back to South Africa.

"It’s the first time since 2010 that Kelly has visited SA. She told us she’s really enjoying her new judging stint on X-Factor USA and that she’d love to return to South Africa for a full tour."

Big Sean to perform in Mzansi

Hip-hop megastar, Big Sean, makes his first South African stage appearance on 1 February next year, brought to you by Axe, and in association with Channel O.

This exclusive and once-off event will take place at Gallagher Estate in Johannesburg on Saturday 1 February 2014. A tremendous feat for Axe, it is guaranteed to be a phenomenal gathering of hip-hop fans from across South Africa to witness the spectacle that is Big Sean.



AXE is exceptionally proud to be bringing in Big Sean as part of their debut foray into the music and lifestyle scene. “Music is an integral part of an AXE Man’s life, and through bringing out international artists, starting with Big Sean, we have the opportunity to create some once-in-a-lifetime experiences for our users” said AXE Brand Manager Vincent Viviers.

Big Sean’s first visit to SA and Africa follows hot on the heels of the star’s second studio album, Hall of Fame, selling an impressive 72 000 copies in its first week of release in August.

The artist’s career has exploded in the two years since his debut album, Finally Famous: The Mixtape, in 2011. After record first-week sales and raving reviews in Rolling Stone and just about everywhere else, it also spun off crossover hits with, among others, West and Roscoe Dash, Chris Brown and Nicki Minaj. GQ Mag’s ‘Hottest Rookie’ of 2012 now has a Facebook following pushing 3 million, close to 4 million twitter followers and no less than 46 million YouTube views worldwide.

The MC from Detroit, Michigan, has come a long way since free styling for Kanye West in 2005. Rapping since his pre-teens, Sean Anderson won an MC contest at a local hip-hop radio station, earning a spot to rap live on-air every Friday night for nearly a year. It was here that he made a lifetime contact in West who agreed to hear his freestyle. Following a mentorship from West, Sean signed with G.O.O.D. Music in 2007, and Def Jam in 2008.

Most recent accolades are double Grammy nominations for Mercy, his collaboration with West, his mentor, and which also featured label mate Pusha T and 2 Chainz.

Big Sean is currently touring the USA and Canada, with concerts and appearances scheduled in Miami, Atlanta, Toronto, Montreal and elsewhere during October.

G&G Productions, the company behind the successful Sensation ‘Innerspace’, NYE Live City Link Up and Space Ibiza South Africa, will be the team behind the production of Big Sean’s performance in South Africa.

About the tour venues and dates:

Big Sean will perform one gig only, on Saturday 1 February 2014, at Gallagher Estate in Johannesburg.

Tickets are on sale for General – R350, Golden Circle – R550 at Computicket.

http://online.computicket.com/web/event/axe_presents_big_sean/765261160/0/56717593

086 915 8000

Phresh Ent | Staff Reporter | Twitter | Facebook

Diddy, Jay Z, Dr. Dre Top Forbes' Cash Kings 2013 List


Nicki Minaj remains the only female on Forbes' Cash Kings 2013: The World's 20 Highest-Paid Hip-Hop Artists, which also includes Dr. Dre and Birdman.

Diddy tops Forbes’ Cash Kings 2013: The World’s 20 Highest-Paid Hip-Hop Artists, with estimated earnings of $50 million thanks to income generated from Ciroc vodka, Bad Boy Entertainment and the Sean John clothing line among his other businesses, according to forbes.com. This is the first time Diddy has topped the list, the site says.

Jay Z is #2 on the list, with estimated earnings of $43 million. Jigga earned double-digit millions from his concerts and his Roc Nation label and management company.

The majority of Dr. Dre’s $40 million in estimated earnings comes from his headphones line, good for #3 on the list, one spot better than Nicki Minaj, who earned an estimated $29 million and remains the only female on the list.

The Cash Kings list counts pretax earnings for all living artists whose work is primarily classified as hip-hop or rap, as per forbes.com. The site says it considers income from touring, record sales, publishing, merchandise sales, endorsements and other ventures, though management, agent and attorney fees are not deducted from the tally.

Earnings for the Cash Kings are counted from June 2012 to June 2013 and are based on data from Pollstar, the Recording Industry Association of America and Nielsen SoundScan, and from interviews with numerous managers, lawyers, record executives and some of the artists themselves, forbes.com says.

Forbes' Cash Kings 2012 list was also topped by Dr. Dre, Diddy and Jay-Z, but in that order.

Dr. Dre held the top spot on the 2012 list with an estimated $110 million in pretax earnings thanks to the sale of his Beats By Dr. Dre headphones to handset maker HTC, which paid $300 million for a 51 percent stake in the company in 2011.

In 2012, Diddy scored the #2 spot with $45 million in earnings due to profits from Diageo's Ciroc vodka, while Jay Z was #3 with $38 million thanks to investments in Carol's Daughter and the Brooklyn Nets, among other ventures.

The full Forbes’ Cash Kings 2013: The World’s 20 Highest-Paid Hip-Hop Artists is as follows:

1. Diddy ($50M)

2. Jay Z ($43M)

3. Dr. Dre ($40M)

4. Nicki Minaj ($29M)

5. Birdman ($21M)

6. Kanye West ($20M)

7. Lil Wayne ($16M)

8. Wiz Khalifa ($14M)

9. Ludacris ($12M)

10. Pitbull ($11M)

11. Drake ($10.5M)

12. Snoop Dogg ($10M)

12. Eminem ($10M)

14. Kendrick Lamar ($9M)

14. Pharrell ($9M)

14. Macklemore & Ryan Lewis ($9M)

17. Swizz Beatz ($8.5M)

18. Tech N9ne ($7.5M)

19. 50 Cent ($7M)

20. Lil Jon ($6M)

20. Rick Ross ($6M)

20. Mac Miller ($6M)

20. Jeezy ($6M)

20. Questlove ($6M)

And if you guys don't mind me asking, where is J Cole on  the list? I  mean with all the hype he has been getting I expected to see him there not to mention Big Sean!

Phresh Ent | Staff Reporter | Twitter | Facebook

Monday, September 23, 2013

Nickelback Ready To Rock SA


Big Concerts is pleased to announce that Rock Superstars Nickelback will be coming to South Africa for two Johannesburg dates on Friday 6th December 2013 and Sunday 8th December 2013 at the Coca-Cola dome and two Cape Town dates at the Grand Arena, GrandWest on Wednesday 11th December 2013 and Thursday 12th December 2013. Presented by 94.7 Highveld Stereo and M-Net. Another Big Concerts Experience.

Tickets go on sale Friday 20th September 2013 at 9am from  www.bigconcerts.co.za and Computicket

Nickelback is one of the most commercially successful Canadian groups, having sold more than 50 million albums worldwide and close to half a million copies in South Africa.

The band has released seven studio albums: Curb (1996) The Stage (2000), Silver Side Up (2001), The Long Road (2003), All The Right Reasons (2005), Dark Horse (2008) and Here and Now (2011).  Over their career, they achieved five Grammy nominations, three American Music Awards as well as 12 Juno awards in Canada and were named “Group of the Decade” by Billboard magazine in 2009. With multi-platinum hit albums and singles all over the world, including How You Remind Me, Photograph, Burn It To The Ground and Rockstar join recent chart topping songs like When We Stand Together, Bottoms Up, Lullaby and Trying Not To Love You making for an event not to be missed covering over a decade of hits, a Nickelback show to remember.  Hard rocking, with worldwide radio anthems, this is a band with a reputation for providing a party wherever they go.

www.nickelback.com

Tour Itinerary

Johannesburg – presented by 94.7 Highveld Stereo and M-NET

Friday 6th December 2013

Sunday 8th December 2013

Coca-Cola Dome

Price: R340 – R790

Cape Town – presented by M-Net

Wednesday 11th December 2013

Thursday 12th December 2013

Grand Arena, GrandWest

Price: R340 – R680

Tickets go on sale Friday 20th September 2013 from bigconcerts.co.za and Computicket

Monday, September 16, 2013

‘Nothing Was the Same’ Full Album Review


1. “Tuscan Leather”

OPENING TRACK. Here’s what a lot of people already know about Tuscan Leather: It's a fragrance by Tom Ford that, per some, smells like cocaine, and so that’s supposed to be why this song is called “Tuscan Leather.” But here’s what a lot of people don’t know, which leads to what the song is actually about:

Two years ago, Drake was in a car accident. It happened late, late, late one night outside of Nova Scotia. You didn’t read about it because it wasn’t reported by anyone and that’s exactly how Drake’s camp wanted it. But here’s the thing: The accident was serious. REAL serious. Drake was pinned under the steering wheel. He couldn’t move. So when the car eventually caught fire all he could do was sit there and scream and watch the skin from each of his thighs get burned off. It was totally traumatizing.

And so but when they took Drake to the hospital, Drake was still Drake, which is to say that he didn’t opt for regular skin grafting like a normal human because Drake most assuredly is not a normal human. Drake chose a leather graft, which is just like a regular skin graft but except instead of skin doctors use leather. DRAKE WANTED LEATHER THIGHS. He’d wanted them since he was a kid. It was the most luxurious thing his brain could imagine. So, presented with the opportunity, that’s what he got as replacements because when Drake says shit then shit happens. Leather thighs. What’s more, he wanted ITALIAN leather thighs straight from Tuscany, because fuck your tacky American leather thighs. This ain’t Walmart, bro. Italian leather thighs is a little thing called having some true class.

Now, I get it: This is an odd, unbelievable bit of information to process. But, I mean, think on like this: Drake should’ve definitely already had a few naked selfies leak out onto the Internet, right? Like, that’s the most Drake thing for Drake to do. There’s no reason that that shouldn’t have happened 50 times over. But he never has. There are zero Drake peen pics anywhere. And that’s because, while he’s mostly fond of his new thighs, he understands that they look a little odd (basically like those Swiss Rolls snack cakes). He’s very self-conscious about them. And so that’s actually what this song is really about: The cognitive dissonance of knowing that you are in possession of the type of luxury that’d bow a king’s spine, but being too insecure to show it. Best line: “Tufted leather thighs, girl. Jewel-encrusted heavy sighs, girl. Secretly feel that luxury on my thighs, girl. But recognize the pain in my eyes, girl.”

2. “Furthest Thing”

This song isn’t actually a song, it’s a four-minute apology from Drake about the past five years of Lil Wayne’s career. “I know the saying,” a noticeably somber Drake begins. “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. But release Rebirth and then I Am Not A Human Being* though and OH MY GOD I AM SO SORRY ABOUT THAT I DON’T KNOW WHAT WAS GOING ON.” Wayne pops in for a moment. Drake asks him if he wants to say anything. Wayne comes on just long enough to make some half-warmed cunnilingus reference (“I wear your legs like a hat, your butt cheeks are a visor, I lick that puddy-wuddy cat, yo’ pussy lips be like, ‘Hi, sir’”) before Drake grabs the mic away and then apologizes again. Poor Drake. #ripLilWayne

I Am Not A Human Being II
Lil Wayne

*Question: Who’s the guy that said, “Oh, oh yeah, definitely, Wayne. What rap really needs is I Am Not A Human Being 2. That’s what the game needs. Shit’s hot fire, son!” Because FUCK that guy.

3. “Started From The Bottom”

You know this one already. Skip.

4. “Wu-Tang Forever”

I listened to the whole Wu-Tang Forever double disc album prior to listening to this song because I wanted to be able to catch even the most impossible-to-spot reference or hat-tip that Drake laid out there in the song. In the end, do you know what I got? A great, big boner in the butthole, is what. IT DOESN'T HAVE ANYTHING TO DO WITH WU-TANG. He makes a U-God joke, but that's it. And, I mean, fucking EVERYBODY makes U-God jokes.

5. “Own It”

Note: Drake is far too complex for just regular words all the time. That’s why there’s no commentary here, just a selfie that I was inspired to take while listening to this song, which I guess is actually just a different sort of commentary.


-Me, lying on a fancy rug almost crying, realizing that someone else has just walked in the room as I’m taking selfies lying on a fancy rug almost crying, listening to “Own It”

6. “Worst Behaviour”

“Worst Behaviour” is a theme track. It’s just a bunch of brags about hoodrat shit Drake does with his friends, like how he spells “behavior” as “behaviour” and “honor” as “honour” and “flavor” as “flavour” and so. That’s basically it. It’s okay, I guess. Or, rather, it’s oukay. Best line: “I spell all kind of shit wrong, I got a disease. Color like c-o-l-o-r? Nah, gimme the U, too, please."

7. “From Time”

REALLY EXCITING. What Drake does is take a bunch of clips from that movie The Land Before Time and splice them together and malibooyah: SONG OF THE YEAR. It’s really remarkable. Best line: “Drizzy got the hoes, dark to darker like soot, yo’ girl give me that long neck, call her rap game Little Foot.”

8. “Hold On, We're Going Home”

You know this one already. Skip.

9. “Connect”

3:18 seconds of someone crying. Like, that's all this is. There’s no intro. There’s no accompanying music. There’s no explanation. There’s no nothing. Just sobbing. It’s soft crying, mostly; the cry that happens a few moments before THE BIG CRY. I’m not sure what’s going on. Maybe someone was watching What Dreams May Come? I don't know. I just know that that movie is fucking brutal. “Oh, I know, let’s start the movie by showing a happy family and then let's immediately kill the kids. And then right after that, the husband dies by getting squished by a car. And then after that, the wife kills herself and goes to hell where they have a ground made of human faces and you have to step on them to walk. That’ll be a good movie.” WTF BRO NO IT WON'T IT'LL BE A HEARTBREAKING MOVIE AND IT'LL MAKE ME SO SAD THAT I THROW UP ALL OVER MY OWN SADNESS BONER.

10. “The Language”

-Here’s me sitting under my desk almost crying, listening to “The Language”

11. “305 To My City,” feat. Detail

This one was produced by Terio from those Vine videos. What a sad bit of commentary that whole situation is. I guess I just don’t understand why everyone thinks it’s so funny and cool that a kid is so massively overweight and barely capable of movement and. Fuck you, fuckers. I hope when you get to heaven the guy behind the camera for Terio videos is there going “OOH KILL ’EM KILL ’EM” as God does that Terio Molly dance right before he opens the trap door and sends you freefalling towards hell.

12. “Too Much”

GIF of Tom Hardy crying while holding an English bulldog because, I mean, come on.

13. “Pound Cake,” feat. Jay Z / “Paris Morton Music 2”

If you thought this was a song where “pound cake” was a euphemism for getting money then you were wrong and if you thought this was a song where “pound cake” was a euphemism for mashing on vaginas then you were wrong, too, but if you thought this was a song about real, actual pound cakes then congratulations. THIS IS A SONG ABOUT REAL, ACTUAL POUND CAKES. Jay Z does his old man staccato flow: “I got pound cakes, they’re round cakes, I found the cakes, it’s mounds of cakes.”

Go buy the album. Drake is the king.

Can't get enough Drizzy? Get hyped for his upcoming Would You Like a Tour? tour (featuring Miguel and Future) with this mix.

Album Rate
8.7/10

ACTIVATING ANTI-FLAME/ACCUSATIONS OF BEING A HATER OR HIPSTER SHIELD OR DICKRIDER.
.



Saturday, August 17, 2013

More than 60 artists & DJs for Spring Fiesta


The countdown to the Spring Fiesta 2013 in Ekurhuleni has officially begun! Having completely sold-out all early bird tickets, make sure you don't get left behind and get yourself a pre-sale ticket while they last.
The Spring Fiesta, one of the biggest local festivals, is back for the third consecutive year, taking place on Saturday 21st September, with a line-up that features over 60 of SA's finest beat droppers on 5 different stages for over 13 hours of dance floor heaven.

Superstar DJ, Dennis Ferrer will be holding it down on the Soul Candi LIVE Main Stage while Andre Hommen will feature on the What About Soul floor.

STAGE 1: SOUL CANDI LIVE MAIN ARE

ARTISTS

  • C9ine                                                     
  • The Layders                        
  • Muzart                                                         
  • Mi Casa                                                
  • Dr Malinga                           
  • L’Vovo  
  • Liquiddeep


DJs

  • DJ Nutty VJ SET                                  
  • Fistaz                                    
  • DJ Ganyani ft Mlu & Fiesta Black                
  • DJ Kent                                                 
  • DJ Shimza                            
  • Crazy White Boy                                           
  • Black Coffee                                       
  • F.eU                                     

                                                                 
STAGE 2: We LIVE Hip Hop Stage – Hosted by Sphectacula & DJ Naves

ARTISTS

  • REASON                                               
  • AKA                                                                                                        


DJ’s

  • Hudson                                                
  • DJ Capital                          
  • J Speedsta                                                  
  • Major League DJz                            
  • Jack Mothwa                    
  • Naked DJ                                              
  • Ms Cosmo                                           
  • Sphectacula                     
  • DJ Naves                                                     
  • Milkshake-Vigilante-Dimpelz (MVD)                                    
  • PH                                                        

                                                               
STAGE 3: What About Soul Stage – Hosted by Lulo Cafe                                                            

DJ’s

  • V Underground                               
  •  DJ Whisky                            
  • Malankane                                                   
  • Kid Fonque                                         
  • Funkdeepsta                     
  • Claude                                                      
  • Jullian Gomes                                    
  • Lulo Cafe                             
  • Terance                                                 
  • Ralf Gum                                              
  • China                                    
  • Da Capo & Punk                                           
  • Deep Xcape                                                   

               
 STAGE 4: Old Skool is Cool Stage – Hosted by DJ Franky

DJ’s

  • Cuebur                                                 
  • DJ Mphoza                          
  • Twinz on Decks                                            
  • Tokzen                                                 
  • Miggs                                    
  • Mo Flava                                                        
  • Warras “The Shady Lurker”        
  • Franky                                  
  • Chynaman                                                    
  • Dr Duda                                                
  • 2lani The Warrior           
  • Giggs Superstar                                            
  • Dino Bravo                                          
  • Just Mo                                
  • Josi Chave                                               



STAGE 5: African Storm Stage – Hosted by The Admiral & Jahseed

DJ’s

  • King Roots                                           
  • Coppasho                            
  • Bobotikal & Archangel
  • Admiral & Jahseed                          
  • Lion Paw                              
  • Fanta


Presale tickets are now available and range from R1500 for VVIP, R550 for VIP and GA tickets at R250. Please note tickets will only be available at Computicket this year and NO tickets sold at the door.

Amazing PACKAGE DEALS are also available with various options

Platinum at R3500 (Valued at R4200 includes 2x VVIP tickets, Double room at Emperors Palace - Peermont Metcourt Hotel, shuttle to and from the venue)

Gold at R1400 (Valued at R1950 includes 2x VIP tickets, Double room at Emperors Palace -Peermont Metcourt Hotel, shuttle to and from the venue)

Silver at R800 (Valued at R1200 includes 2x GA tickets, Double room at Europrime 4star Guesthouse, shuttle to and from the venue).

Wednesday, July 31, 2013

Keri Hilson to perform at SA music fest


American R&B singer and songwriter Keri Hilson has announced that she will be performing in South Africa at the Macufe Music Festival, taking place later in the year...

The 'Pretty Girl Rock' singer took to her Twitter page to announce news of her visit to Mzansi.

She tweeted: "South Africa!!! Guess what? I'm coming to the Macufe Music Festival in October!!! Can't wait to see you guys again!!"

This will not be the first time that the sexy singer who is known for her irresistible moves will be in the country
She came down to SA in 2009 with the world star, John Legend for a performance in Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg.

There is no official statement that has been released as yet about her performance at Macufe.

Macufe Festival 2013 takes place between the 4th October 2013 and 13th October 2013
This spectacular festival showcases superb displays of African performing arts takes place in Bloemfontein, Free State.

Now in its 14th year this festival continues to grow in size and popularity. This year new features include the popular Comedy Series from DStv with two evenings of fun and laughter held at the Sand Du Plessis Theatre in Bloemfontein.

The festival incorporates jazz, arts and crafts, music, drama, comedy and a real African vibe.

For ticket information for the Macufe Festival visit macufe.co.za .

Tickets for the main festival cost R250,00 per person.

Phresh Ent | Staff Reporter | Twitter | Facebook

Support Acts for R Kelly announced


A host of well-known and respected supporting acts for the South African leg of R&B legend R Kelly’s ‘Single Ladies Tour’ have been announced, making the two shows amongst the most anticipated stadium gigs to hit South African shores.

Johannesburg: Lira, Mi Casa, Khuli Chana, DJ Euphonik and DJ Cndo.

Durban: Lira, Mi Casa, Khuli Chana, DJ Lulo Cafe and DJ Cndo.

The tour kicks off on Thursday 8 August 2013 at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg and on Saturday 10 August 2013 at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. Tickets are available through Computicket.



In an era of declining songwriting skills and auto tune crooning R. Kelly embodies the best traditions of American music as a vocalist, songwriter and producer. He uses classic materials to create music as contemporary as Siri’s iPhone voice. Despite selling millions of recordings and writing classic songs for himself and many others, this Chicago based singer-songwriter continues to push his art forward with Write Me Back, a dynamic twelve song collection that is part of his extraordinary 2012 — The Year of theR.

Along with his remarkable new album, R. Kelly is publishing his first memoir, Soulacoaster: The Diary of Me, and signed with the IFC Channel to add chapters to his innovative hip hop opera Trapped in the Closet, which was an early 21st century cultural phenomenon.

Write Me Back continues the homage to classic soul/R&B that distinguished 2010’s critically acclaimed Love Letter. But where that album celebrates the music of the ‘50s and ‘60s, this has a wider collection of musical inspirations, going to sounds that echo Ray Charles, while evoking the passionate magic of Teddy Pendergrass, Barry White and Michael Jackson among many others. The content and the title of this new recording were definitely inspired by the triumph of the previous album.



The songs on Write Me Back do not simply pay homage to older styles, but evoke a myriad of influences at the same time and in the process create something pleasing and new. “I have many directions I still wanna go in musically,” he says of where he is creatively. “This just happened to be a direction I choose for now because the first album did so well people started asking me if I was gonna be doing any other songs like that.. Through those questions I found a second wind of inspiration in the area of doing the classic R&B type of songs.”

The tasty array of musical influences R. Kelly transforms and reinvents ranges through the history of classic soul. “Love Is,” “Share My Love” and “Lady Sunday” evoke the lush, danceable sound of Philadelphia. “Feeling Single” and “Believe That It’s So” effortlessly mash up echoes of Bill Withers and Stevie Wonder. “All Rounds On Me” has a blues feel that Ray Charles would envy, while “Fool For You” has that classic Motown Sound. “Green Light” will make fans of the Isley Brothers happy, while “Party Jumpin’” captures the seriously fun late night spirit of a live Sam Cooke show. Both “When A Man Lies” and “Believe In Me” are powerhouse songs poised to join the canon of R. Kelly standards.

In an era where hip hop has overshadowed R&B as mainstream music R. Kelly has reinforced his credentials as “the R in R&B.” He speaks candidly about the state of that venerable music culture and his role as a keeper of the flame. “I don’t mean to sound bold but I speak the truth, especially when I speak about R&B music,” he says humbly. “R&B has, in some ways been abandoned and it’s being used in areas when people see fit to maybe put a hook on a rap song to blow up a rap song. Now, I don’t knock that hustle, but if we’re gonna respect R&B when it comes to rap, then it deserves to stand on its own as well.”

Alongside his new album, R. Kelly explores yet another outlet for his creative hand with the release of his memoir Soulacoaster: The Diary of Me published by SmileyBooks, an imprint owned by noted broadcaster and publisher Tavis Smiley. R’s first book has allowed the singer-songwriter to define himself and dig deep into his life story.

“When you become a celebrity and a legend in the field that you’re in, everybody thinks they know you and people form opinions about you without really knowing who you are,” he observes. “Nobody really knows you until they know the things you’ve been through. The only way to do that was to tell my story. In life there are two sides to every story, but unfortunately in my case there are about forty different sides to the story.”

The singer makes a big distinction between R. Kelly the star and Robert Kelly the human being. “They already know who R. Kelly is. They know R. Kelly performs and they know he’s written and produced hit songs for himself and other people. But I felt it was time they met Robert, the mama’s boy, Robert the brother, Robert the father and most of all Robert the person.”
Between Write Me Back and Soulacoaster: The Diary of Me, the stage has been set for the expression of new and unexpected dimensions of R.Kelly’s intimate, compelling, and soul-filled artistry.

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

Kelly Rowland - 'Dirty Laundry' (Music Video)


Can you say, "about time!"?. Kelly Rowland at last premieres the music video for her uber-emotional and personal The Dream-produced R&B ballad "Dirty Laundry", the latest single from K-Row's fourth studio album "Talk a Good Game". Watch above!

Directed by Sarah McColgan, the music video shows Kelly dining with her abusive (ex) boyfriend - and getting humiliated by him, sitting on a chair confessing the heart-rending lyrics of "Dirty Laundry" (being in Beyoncé's shadow and more), lying down in a pool of water and getting a 'steam'. A pretty simple, yet powerful visual. "Dirty Laundry" has to be one of Kelly Rowland's best song ever. She serves TRUTH in it, and fan's feedback can only be positive. "Dirty Laundry" will go for Rhythmic adds on US radios next July 29. Up, and only up on the charts Kelly's new single should go! It's only fair!


Watch Dirty Laundry Here

In other news, Kelly Rowland had to be rescued off the coast of Massachusetts over the weekend, after a private boat she was on became lost at sea, adrift in a salty ocean of self criticism, surrounded on all sides by black churning waters of regret. Actually, it was just in the regular sea. But it was hopelessly lost.

News Café DJ Search


Are you a DJ ripping up the decks? Do you think you have what it takes to mix it up with the legendary Soul Candi?

Then enter the News Café DJ Search brought to you Brutal Fruit today and you could spin your way to fame, fortune and fantastic prizes.

Entering the News Café DJ Search is easy. If you are a  DJ from anywhere in South Africa, playing any genre of music, all you need to do is upload your original mix of no longer than 10 minutes in MP3, MP4 or AVI format right here. You also need to upload a picture and your contact details in the space provided.

The competition will run from 7 July to 13 September 2013 and will be divided into three stages.

Stage One
The Call For Entries stage will run from 8th Jul – 19th Aug to allow all deejays  to submit their mixes via the website. All uploaded mixes will be featured on the website for the public to enjoy, judged by Soul Candi himself and the best will be interviewed and profiled on the website as well.

Stage Two
The best DJs from each of the three regions, namely Gauteng, Western Cape and KwaZulu Natal, will go head to head in regional DJ Battle Parties at local News Cafe’s. Each contestant will be given 10 minutes to spin their way to the national finals.

These regional finalists will be selected personally by Soul Candi and will contest for one spot in the final per region, as well as one wild card entry as picked by Soul Candi to make up the Final Four.

The dates for the Regional Battles are as follow:

• 30 August 2013 @ News Cafe Centurion
• 6 September 2013 @ News Cafe Umhlanga
• 13  September 2013 @ News Cafe Table View

Stage Three
The Final Battle will take place at News Cafe, Midrand on 27 September 2013.

This exciting grand finale will be MC’d by Soul Candi and will feature the four finalists going up against each other in 30 minute slots to decide who is South Africa’s ultimate DJ.

Thursday, July 18, 2013

Jay-Z’s Album Sells Gold In Its First Week

Jay-Z’s new album has sold more than 500 000 units its first week! Magna Carta has the second-best first-week debut of the year after Justin Timberlake’s 20/20 Experience.


The album was officially released on July 7. Samsung bought and gave 1.2 million copies of the album to Galaxy mobile phone users on July 4. Billboard is not counting those sales on its charts.



Jay-Z’s 12th album had more than 14 million streams in its first week on Spotify, beating a record that Daft Punk set in May with Random Access Memories & features Timberlake, Beyonce, Frank Ocean and Timbaland.

Converse. Get Out Of The Garage.


The hugely successful Get Out Of The Garage platform is back. Last year, 138 unsigned, local bands from a variety of genres submitted their demos to Converse via SoundCloud and YouTube links for the chance to record in New York and play at the iconic *100 Club in London. Matthew Mole was crowned the inaugural South African winner.

Converse is again on the hunt for unsigned talent to get out of the garage and be transported to the UK to play this epic venue later this year. Then the winner will be whipped off to New York to record at the **Rubber Tracks studio in Brooklyn. Whether you are a punk rocker, electro fundi, kickass proponent of kwaito, or a hip hop playa, Converse wants to hear your sound.

From the 9th of July until the 8th of August, visit Converse on Facebook and upload a SoundCloud version of your best track. Then on the 15th of August, judges Catherine Grenfell, Jon Savage, and Reason will have narrowed down the entries to SA’s Top 10 unsigned artists. Converse will then showcase these acts on Facebook, where South African music fans can vote for their favourite. Simply by voting, fans have a chance to join their favourite band VIP style to London for the gig.

Get Out Of The Garage, share your music and showcase your talent via the app at www.facebook.com/converse and be part of the conversation on Twitter @Converse_Africa with the #Play100Club hashtag. The overall winner will be announced on the 16th of September 2013, and soon after take the stage at Rocking the Daisies 2013.

Wednesday, July 17, 2013

2013 MTV VMA Nominees


The first wave of nominees for the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards was released on Wednesday, and Justin Timberlake, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis are leading the pack with six nods apiece.

Miley Cyrus, Pink and Thirty Seconds to Mars follow with three nominations each.

The nominees for the big Video of the Year award include Justin Timberlake (“Mirrors), Macklemore and Ryan Lewis (“Thrift Shop”), Bruno Mars (“Locked Out of Heaven”), Robin Thicke featuring T.I. and Pharrell (“Blurred Lines”) and Taylor Swift (“I Knew You Were Trouble”).

The MTV VMAs will air live from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on August 25.


Video of the Year
Justin Timberlake – “Mirrors”
Macklemore and Ryan Lewis featuring Wanz – “Thrift Shop”
Bruno Mars – “Locked Out of Heaven”
Robin Thicke featuring T.I. and Pharrell – “Blurred Lines”
Taylor Swift – “I Knew You Were Trouble”

Best Hip-Hop Video
Macklemore and Ryan Lewis feat. Ray Dalton – “Can’t Hold Us”
Drake – “Started From the Bottom”
Kendrick Lamar – “Swimming Pools”
A$AP Rocky featuring Drake, 2 Chainz and Kendrick Lamar – “F**kin Problems”
J. Cole feat. Miguel – “Power Trip”

Best Male Video
Justin Timberlake – “Mirrors”
Robin Thicke featuring T.I. and Pharrell – “Blurred Lines”
Bruno Mars – “Locked Out of Heaven”
Ed Sheeran – “Lego House”
Kendrick Lamar – “Swimming Pools”

Best Female Video
Rihanna featuring Mickey Ekko – “Stay”
Taylor Swift – “I Knew You Were Trouble”
Miley Cyrus – “We Can’t Stop”
Pink featuring Nate Ruess – “Just Give Me a Reason”
Demi Lovato – “Heart Attack”

Best Pop Video
Bruno Mars – “Locked Out of Heaven”
Justin Timberlake – “Mirrors”
fun. – “Carry On”
Miley Cyrus – “We Can’t Stop”
Selena Gomez – “Come and Get It”

Artist to Watch
Twenty One Pilots – “Holding on to You”
Zedd featuring Foxes – “Clarity”
Austin Mahone – “What About Love”
The Weeknd – “Wicked Games”
Iggy Azalea – “Work”

Best Collaboration
Justin Timberlake feat. Jay-Z – “Suit and Tie”
Pitbull featuring Christina Aguilera – “Feel This Moment”
Calvin Harris featuring Ellie Goulding – “I Need Your Love”
Robin Thicke featuring T.I. and Pharrell – “Blurred Lines”
P!nk feat. Nate Ruess – “Just Give Me a Reason”

Best Video With a Social Message
Kelly Clarkson – “People Like Us”
Macklemore and Ryan Lewis – “Same Love”
Snoop Lion – “No Guns Allowed”
Miguel – “Candles in the Sun”
Beyoncé – “I Was Here”

Best Rock Video
Imagine Dragons – “Radioactive”
Fall Out Boy – “My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark (Light Em Up)”
Mumford & Sons – “I Will Wait”
30 Seconds to Mars – “Up in the Air”
Vampire Weekend – “Diane Young”

Best Art Direction
Capital Cities – “Safe and Sound”
30 Seconds to Mars – “Up in the Air”
Janelle Monae feat. Erykah Badu – “Q.U.E.E.N”
Lana Del Rey – “National Anthem”
Alt-J – “Tessellate”

Best Choreography
Chris Brown – “Fine China”
Ciara – “Body Party”
Jennifer Lopez feat. Pitbull – “Live It Up”
will.i.am feat. Justin Bieber – “#thatPOWER”
Bruno Mars – “Treasure”

Best Cinematography
30 Seconds to Mars – “Up in the Air”
Lana Del Rey – “Ride”
Yeah Yeah Yeahs – “Sacrilege”
Macklemore and Ryan Lewis feat. Ray Dalton – “Can’t Hold Us”
A-Trak and Tommy Trash – “Tuna Melt”

Best Direction
Justin Timberlake featuring Jay-Z – “Suit and Tie”
Macklemore and Ryan Lewis feat. Ray Dalton – “Can’t Hold Us”
Yeah Yeah Yeahs – “Sacrilege”
fun. – “Carry On”
Drake – “Started From the Bottom”

Best Editing
Pink featuring Nate Ruess – “Just Give Me a Reason”
Calvin Harris feat. Florence Welch – “Sweet Nothing”
Macklemore and Ryan Lewis feat. Ray Dalton – “Can’t Hold Us”
Justin Timberlake – “Mirrors”
Miley Cyrus – “We Can’t Stop”

Best Visual Effects
Flying Lotus – “Tiny Tortures”
Skrillex featuring the Door – “Breakin’ a Sweat”
The Weeknd – “Wicked Games”
Duck Sauce – “It’s You”
Capital Cities – “Safe and Sound”

Monday, July 1, 2013

2013 BET Awards: Full winners List

The BET Experience focused its attention on the awards portion of the weekend's festivities after numerous performances, high temperatures and well-attended seminars. Rapper Drake led with the most nominations as the awards were handed out at L.A.'s Nokia Theatre, but Kendrick Lamar was the night's big winner, taking the new artist and male hip hop artist awards. The following is a complete list of winners for the 2013 BET Awards.


Female R&B/Pop Artist
Beyoncé
Tamar Braxton
Alicia Keys
Rihanna | WINNER
Elle Varner

Male R&B/Pop Artist
Chris Brown
Bruno Mars
Miguel | WINNER
Justin Timberlake
Usher

Group
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis | WINNER
Mary Mary
Mindless Behavior
Slaughterhouse
The Throne (Kanye West & Jay-Z)

Collaboration
2 Chainz f/ Drake -- No Lie
A$AP Rocky f/ Drake, 2 Chainz and Kendrick Lamar -- Problems | WINNER
French Montana f/ Rick Ross, Drake and Lil Wayne -- Pop That
Kendrick Lamar f/ Drake -- Poetic Justice
Justin Timberlake f/ Jay-Z -- Suit & Tie
Kanye West f/ Big Sean, Pusha T and 2 Chainz -- Mercy

Male Hip Hop Artist
2 Chainz
A$AP Rocky
Drake
Future
Kendrick Lamar | WINNER

Female Hip Hop Artist
Azealia Banks
Eve
Nicki Minaj | WINNER
Rasheeda
Rye Rye

Video of the Year
2 Chainz f/ Drake -- No Lie
A$AP Rocky f/ Drake, 2 Chainz and Kendrick Lamar -- Problems
Drake -- Started From The Bottom | WINNER
Drake f/ Lil Wayne -- HYFR
Kendrick Lamar f/ Drake -- Poetic Justice
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis f/ Wanz -- Thrift Shop
Miguel -- Adorn
Rihanna -- Diamonds
Justin Timberlake f/ Jay-Z -- Suit & Tie
Kanye West f/ Big Sean, Pusha T and 2 Chainz -- Mercy

Video Director of the Year
A$AP Rocky & Sam Lecca
Benny Boom | WINNER
Director X
Dre Films
Hype Williams

New Artist
Azealia Banks
Joey Bada$$
Kendrick Lamar | WINNER
Trinidad Jame$
The Weeknd

Gospel Artist
Deitrick Haddon
Lecrae
Tamela Mann
Mary Mary | WINNER
Marvin Sapp

Actress
Angela Bassett
Halle Berry
Taraji P. Henson
Gabrielle Union
Kerry Washington | WINNER

Actor
Don Cheadle
Common
Jamie Foxx | WINNER
Samuel L. Jackson
Denzel Washington

YoungStars Award
Gabrielle Douglas | WINNER
Jacob Latimore
Keke Palmer
Jaden Smith
Quvenzhané Wallis

Movie
"Beasts of the Southern Wild"
"Django Unchained"
"Something from Nothing: The Art of Rap"
"Sparkle"
"Think Like A Man" | WINNER

Subway Sportswoman of the Year
Gabrielle Douglas | WINNER
Brittney Griner
Candace Parker
Serena Williams
Venus Williams

Subway Sportsman of the Year
Victor Cruz
Kevin Durant
Robert Griffin III
LeBron James | WINNER
Ray Lewis

Coca-Cola Viewers Choice Award
A$AP Rocky f/ Drake, 2 Chainz and Kendrick Lamar -- Problems
Drake -- Started From The Bottom | WINNER
Kendrick Lamar -- Swimming Pools (Drank)
Miguel -- Adorn
Rihanna -- Diamonds
Justin Timberlake f/ Jay-Z -- Suit & Tie

Centric Award
Tamar Braxton -- Love and War | WINNER
Fantasia -- Lose To Win
Miguel -- Adorn
Nas -- Daughters
Charlie Wilson -- My Love Is All I Have

FANdemonium Award
Rihanna
Chris Brown | WINNER
Beyonce
Nicki Minaj

International Act: Africa
2Face Idibia (Nigeria)
Toya Delazy (South Africa)
Donald (South Africa)
Ice Prince (Nigeria) | WINNER
R2Bees (Ghana)
Radio and Weasel (Uganda)

International Act: UK
Marsha Ambrosius
Estelle
Labrinth
Rita Ora
Emeli Sandé | WINNER
Wiley

Humanitarian Award
Dwayne Wade

Lifetime Achievement Award
Charlie Wilson

Friday, June 28, 2013

Born Sinner Review

No artist is without his or her own flaws. Those prevalent concerns an artist carries with the possibility to push beyond, either by embracing or correcting them as a whole. The ability to overcome such faults often results in the purest form of growth, which is something only the greatest of entertainers and artists can accomplish. With that said, J. Cole has had an uphill battle since getting a glimpse of the spotlight.


“Allow me to reintroduce myself, my name is Cole…”

The Introduction to Jermaine’s sophomore effort titled “Villuminati” starts of with a aggressive drum pattern, combining with a series of sounds (including a B.I.G sample) to create something enjoyably haunting. Cole bursts onto the instrumental, spilling his emotions out in regards to his enemies, subject matter, previous romantic interests and his affiliation with the illuminati. It’s brilliantly executed as the first track and holds the rest of the creation at a standard above his previous album.

“Now who more thorough than me, I paint a picture with my heart for the world to see…”

Following a Kerney Thomas related skit, we arrive at “Land of the Snakes” which is much less heavy than the track before it. Entering on a slightly somber note, the drums and the switch towards the end make light of the track itself as Cole reflects on some of his less depressing moments. Vintage J. Cole shines through here, with college memories, honest reflections and candid storytelling.

“I’m in your city and I’m wondering if you home now, went and found a man but I’m hoping you alone now…”

Born Sinner’s lead single “Power Trip” is a glorious mixture between the soul that would pour out of a R&B record and the gritty perspective that comes with a Hip Hop artist. With a simple and short feature from Miguel during the chorus, Cole effortlessly expresses his emotions whilst revealing his improved ability to deliver his words. The growth between this and his previous work is clearly shown and it’s easily one of the standout tracks on the project.

I take ya to the Promised Land, you don’t want problems, I promise, man.”

Trailing after another minute long skit involving money and Cole’s thoughts on the pursuit of it is the dangerous “Trouble”, in which we see one of Cole’s biggest risks yet. A larger step away from his typical work so far, the subject matter isn’t astonishing but the instrumental combined with his delivery feels fresh which in turn, brings more life to the project as it proceeds. The risk pays off, to say the very least.

“She popped a molly, let the motha f*ckin games begin…”

“Runaway” prowls in next, with a calm tone to match Cole’s precarious attempt at singing in the hook. Here the instrumental shines above the lyricism on display, with the chorus serving to be catchy enough to slide although overall it feels flat compared to the rest of the project thus far.

Damned if I do… Damned if I don’t…

A testament to how much Jermaine has improved since his debut project is the lovably imperfect “She Knows.” It feels somewhat odd and as murky as the instrumental may be with dramatic keys and a intense feel, It works. The track feels unsure of what it wants to be but it delivers, continuing to give the project life and even possibly standing to be memorable outside of the project.

You got what I want, I got what you need…

The tale of not having it all but wanting more bleeds through “Rich Niggaz” which essentially serves as something for the masses to relate to. From the issues that come with money, to issues that lurk without them, Cole utilizes his ability to relate throughout this track. The guitar towards the end of the record pushes this track to a level that just manages to match the worst of this project so far, which isn’t bad by any means, but doesn’t hold up against the best.

What you eat don’t make me shit, and who you fuck don’t make me cum, put a price on my head, won’t make me run…

After a churchlike skit, the illustrious Kendrick Lamar lends his essence to the expertly executed “Forbidden Fruit” complete with A Tribe Called Quest sample. Cole’s take on the mature instrumental is borderline childish, but remains enjoyable as it proceeds. As it falls a bit short in terms of scale with the rest of the tracks, the legendary sample is what’ll save this track from being undistinguished in the future.

I swear this is the last time….

“Chaining Day” feels borderline soulful, with the switch up half way through it preventing the somewhat uninteresting subject matter from gripping the track and pulling it down to a level where it becomes unworthy of the project.

How you like this Crooked Smile?

The “Ain’t That Some Shit” Interlude grabs ears immediately after the serene ending to the track before it, enlivening the project once again before the expressive “Crooked Smile” oddly makes its way forward. With a TLC charged hook, J. Cole spends his time on this reminding the listener (through his effortlessly utilized ability to share and relate) that being “you” is beautiful and honorable things of that nature. A righteous track is the norm in Cole’s discography at this point, but the addition of TLC makes this track a step above the others.

Long live the idols, may they never be your rivals…

One of the standout tracks throughout the project specifically for subject matter,  “Let Nas Down” blows most tracks on the project out of the water. J. Cole pours out his frustrations and anger all over the sax and drums that serve as a canvas, captivating the listener with his strife in the process. Undoubtedly it serves to be superior just for it’s earnestness.

Spinning in circles, live my life without rehearsal…

To conclude the project, Cole brings James Fauntleroy of Cocaine 80’s fame to croon on the hook as Cole exposes more of himself, his thoughts and his goals that still serve to be relevant in his career thus far. The instrumental serves it’s purpose of allowing Cole and his guest to coast, ultimately creating satisfying results from the two.

We watched the underdog from Dreamville deal with some of the worst type of hurdles due to the industry. It has been undoubtedly gloomy for the susceptible born sinner.  These days the snags have evolved with the artist we still watch and thankfully Cole hasn’t diverged too far from his old formula while improving his skillset, not just as a lyricist, but also as a producer. I’ve purposely refrained from mentioning the producing credits because Cole crafted nearly the entire project on his own. Handling that while making sure the project didn’t end up feeling stale is quite an accomplishment and a large improvement from his previous album.

As he struggled with all sorts of problems moving to and from The Sideline Story, J. Cole has crafted a project that not only commendably defeats the sophomore curse, but also remains genuine. Unfortunately the project isn’t without its problems. Despite the good going for it, Cole’s sophomore project does feel a bit lengthy, with some tracks feeling like they could’ve been left off. In addition, the subject matter (though contradictory yet relatable) also feels juvenile in some moments; an issue he carried with his work since his very first mixtape. Nonetheless, the maturity that exists within his honesty outweighs the babyish instants and still feels like not just a step in the right direction, but a sprint. Dark, vicious and angry, Born Sinner solidifies what the Dreamvillains already knew; J. Cole isn’t going anywhere.

 OVERALL: 8.5/10

Timeless Tracks: “Villuminati”, “Power Trip”, “She Knows”, “Let Nas Down”

Pros: Far from repetitive in sound, growth is apparent

Cons: A couple of tracks could’ve been left off


Sunday, June 23, 2013

Jay-Z 'Magna Carta Holy Grail' Tracklisting

We were informed that this soon-to-be record breaker lands on July 4 via the Magna Carta App for Samsung Galaxy S3, S4 and Galaxy Note users. The rest of the world will be able to purchase it in stores and/or online starting July 7.

No features have been announced yet.
Tracklist:

1. Picasso Baby
2. Heaven
3. Versus
4. FuckWithMeYouKnowIGotIt
5. Oceans
6. F.U.T.W
7. Part II (On The Run)
8. BBC
9. La Familia
10. Jay-Z Blue
11. Nickles and Dimes

Saturday, June 22, 2013

J. Cole x Nas - 'Made Nas Proud' ['Let Nas Down' Remix]

THIS IS LEGENDARY! One of the greatest Collabs this year has seen. J Cole has jumped on a track with Nas who he has looked up to since, forever.

We heard that J. Cole tried to get Nas on a track fromTruly Yours 3 but couldn't and luckily got him on a remix of a track he dedicated to him, 'Let Nas Down'.

Nas has turned around and is telling the world that he actually made him proud this time around with a song they titled 'Made Nas Proud'.

This is definitely another classic!
A.M Download - http://audiomack.com/songs/nas/let-nas-down-remix-feat-nas

 
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