HIP HOP
- Pigeon
- Feb 26, 2020
- 17 min read
Delving into the essence of self-empowerment, "I Am" draws inspiration from ancient scriptures that proclaim the divinity within each individual. SnapDibz's pop rap influences shine through in this resonant track, emphasizing the mantra that we are all enough. With a clean and potent lyrical delivery, the absence of a traditional chorus sets this release apart, offering a fresh take on hip hop that captivates listeners. Accompanied by an animated lyric video on YouTube, "I Am" is a testament to Snapdibz's global collaboration, bringing together talents from the US, Canada, and Italy to create a musical experience that transcends boundaries.
"what it means to lose" by Oxyzine delves into the artist's response to the deportation of individuals from the US, highlighting the injustices faced by innocent citizens, legal residents, and undocumented migrants. This poignant single serves as a powerful expression of the artist's disgust towards those who turn a blind eye to such atrocities, drawing from the history of indigenous South Americans and Spaniards to convey a message of anger, fear, and desperation for the future.
INTERVIEW WITH AXIOM THAWYZE
"This is Axiom's first self produced album. Axiom has been growing his fanbase for over a decade and this album is a demonstration of personal and professional growth. Music lovers and Hip Hop heads will cherish this project for years to come."
(•)> Cru cru! What first got you into music?
I used to write lyrics all the time in High School - never really thought anything of it until I started going to more Hip Hop shows, I realized that what I had to say was just as creative if not more creative than the artists on stage, so I spit some rhymes for my dude Sergio who was doing some RnB stuff at the time, he thought it had potential so he invited me to a local studio Emanon Music and that's where I started recording around 2009.
(•)> What's your favorite album of all time?
Escape the Fate - Dying is Your Latest Fashion
(•)> What record from the 2020's do you replay the most?
Brother Ali - Secrets and Escapes - technically it came out in 2019
(•)> What should the Pigeon listen to next?
The Top Gun Motion Picture Soundtrack - Kenny Loggins slays.
(•)> What memorable answers have you had to your work so far?
When me and my brother Zero performed a song called Suicide Letter I remember fans lining up at our merch booth to tell us their stories about Suicide, that's when I realized what kind of an impact our music can make.
(•)> Who is your inspiration when creating music?
Evidence, Alchemist, Atmosphere, Wu-Tang Clan
(•)> Which film do you rewatch the most?
Bloodsport
(•)> How is your perfect day?
Wake up, make beats, write rhymes, invite some friends over and make more music.
(•)> Will you tell us something embarassing about you?
I got stood up at a highschool dance once.
(•)> Do you sing in the shower? If yes, what's the setlist?
Yes - Shania Twain - I feel like a woman
(•)> What's your Hot Take - your most controversial music opinion?
Labels shouldn't dictate the direction of the music.
INTERVIEW WITH HERBIARZ
(•)> Cru cru! What first got you into music?
When I was young I tried to produce electronic music, but I never could finish a song. I didn't know music theory, production technical stuff, arragement etc. I saw people who were playing on Launchpad on Youtube. I just literally sit and tried to make a music for hours and never finish nothing completely. I was about 11-14 years old. In that time I get into Dj-ing a little and tried to remix songs by ear, then I got into doing school parties with older schoolmates, then I saw microphones, cables, small PA system. After this time my older friends started to freestyle around me and that's how I got into writing songs and getting self-expression from it. After writing a lot of songs and being able to freestyle for minutes I bought my first microphone, It was 2017. This stepped up my game, then instead of using cheap headphone microphone set and Audacity I started using Reaper. Whole another world opened to me. Before that I used Ableton live, but did not know that I can even record in it. I did not know what the DAW or EQ is!
(•)> What's your favorite album of all time?
I don't know which one is most favorite. We have to many good albums here, but 3 most listened album of all time by me are Eminem - Relapse, 50 Cent - Get Rich or Die Tryin and Eminem - Recovery. Relapse was with me through my darkest time in life, Recovery gave me motivation to getting sober and keeping myself straight. I still run sometimes to this album! And GRODT keeps me hard and still winning. For me music was always like mood-altering drug, that's why I really cautiously select music that I listen. Best albums that I discovered in last time is definitely G-Unit, Lloyd Banks, Hopsin, Merkules, T.I. whole discography. I love Ryan Leslie, Ludacris, Yelawolf, Young Buck and Mindflip music too.
(•)> What record from the 2020's do you replay the most?
Oh man, I don't know. I'm a producer and studio engineer and I'm still searching for new good music and inspiration. In this week it is probably Merkules - Out Here. Now I'm slowly digging Lloyd Banks - A.O.N 3
(•)> What should the Pigeon listen to next?
Herbiarz - Łykaj Moją Pięść, definitely!
(•)> What memorable answers have you had to your work so far?
I remember that one time after concert, listener walked to me and said that he felt alive first time for so long. This happened couple of times I love it! I heard one time that young people who are in rehab listens to my music in one of rehab spots, because workers here point me as an example, that you can get out of addiction and reach for success.
(•)> Who is your inspiration when creating music?
People who tell me personal story, people who pour emotions into me. Whatever it is rage, sadness, happines or crazy vibe. I just observe my emotions, life, streets and people around me. Other artists are definitely big inspiration, I'm often inspired by their stories. Even my place in life inspires me. Books that I read, words that I write, instrumentals. Everything inspires me. One year I produced over 100 songs, because of that. My old music mentor told me that I'm crazy and It's impossible. I worked for 12-16 hours a day a lost 6 kg. I was skinny, extremly hungry and engaged
(•)> Which film do you rewatch the most?
Would I surprise you If I tell you that it is 8 Mile? I'm not movie freak, I watched it like 3 times, maybe. One of the most rewatched videos are concerts of rappers in their prime. I love to watch this hype! When I loose motivation I look on Youtube videos like Hopsin or Dr.Dre in the studio. Pure passion man!
(•)> How is your perfect day?
Close to "everday" is perfect now. Wake up, manage investments, some office work for an hour or two, breakfast, work till 2/3 P.M (producing in the studio, writing songs, promoting songs, writing emails, mixing etc.), going out to street workout park, practicing handstand and front lever for 2 hours, eat dinner at 6 P.M, chill for 30 minutes, get back to work. End at 9 P.M, spend some time with my family or read some books, go to sleep. I have problem with sleep sometimes. My head is full of thoughts and emotions. If I can't sleep I read or listen to albums. My days look like this like 95% of the time.
(•)> Will you tell us something embarassing about you?
I masturbate, even if this is considered as a sin. I'm healthy and strong man. I'm 23. My libido is crazy. Rather I would please myself with my hand than with some bitch who slept with 50 different men. I don't waste time on crazy bitches - for me It's more loser thing for people who don't know their value. I'm more into being alone that being surrounded by snakes. If I find wivey I will hop into this, but now It's time for business and money.
(•)> Do you sing in the shower? If yes, what's the setlist?
Most of the time I appreciate silence after whole day of hard work
(•)> What's your Hot Take - your most controversial music opinion?
Music business is perfect money laundering machine and artists who blew up are random exception of making profit
Just Fade Away marks a powerful moment of closure for Tony Frissore, a veteran artist reflecting on the end of his 27-year military career.
"This track is my long exhale," says Tony Frissore. "After nearly three decades in service to the Army, I didn’t want to shout. I wanted to drift out quietly, to let it all go. This was the soundtrack to that moment."
Recorded at PEN PUSHAZ STUDIOS and mixed/engineered at AUDIOART NAMIBIA, "ENCHANTMENT" is a testament to Proklaim's innovative approach to music-making. The recording process was marked by its spontaneity and expressiveness, with Proklaim freestyling the bridge and chorus while crafting the verses with meticulous care. The track's seamless blend of production quality and progressive execution highlights Proklaim's dedication to his craft and his ability to deliver a message that resonates deeply with audiences. As Proklaim continues to push boundaries and evolve as an artist, "ENCHANTMENT" stands as a testament to his artistry and vision, promising a promising future ahead for this talented musician.
Recorded at Pen Pushaz Studios and mixed at Audio Art Namibia by Wojtek Majewski, "Celebrate" was a product of a distinctive creative process: writing verses, and then laying them down. Proklaim's vision for this single was to create a boombap mellow lyrical joint. Then we added samples to add colour to it. And grit. As Proklaim continues to evolve as an artist, he emphasizes the importance of tapping into the boundless imagination we all possessed as children. With more content in the works for various mediums, Proklaim's music is poised to shape moods and guide minds in a profound way.
This evocative track, born out of personal observations of daily struggles, showcases his commitment to delivering raw and honest storytelling. Recorded in his hometown, "Millenia" is a homemade masterpiece straight from the heart, promising listeners a genuine and profound musical experience. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in Christopher's poignant lyrics and soul-stirring melodies, as he invites you to join him on a journey of truth and self-discovery.
Drawing inspiration from his relationship with God and personal experiences, Dax's "Lonely Dirt Road" delves into themes of mental health and self-discovery. The song reflects Dax's journey of introspection and growth, stemming from his therapeutic drives along desolate paths. Recorded in Nashville, this track stands out for its deeply introspective lyrics, offering listeners a glimpse into the artist's innermost thoughts. What sets this release apart is the authenticity and vulnerability Dax brings to his music, creating a profound connection with his audience. As Dax aptly puts it, "There is time for everything, but not everything deserves the same amount of time.".
"I Hate That I Love You" delves into the complexities of intimate relationships and the challenges of parenthood. The song, which was recorded in Missoula, Montana, stands out for its powerful emotions and heartfelt storytelling, making it a significant addition to Dax's growing discography. With a memorable quote, "She Took My Child Away," encapsulating the essence of the track, Dax invites listeners to join
Gregory Stanton's album "Clarity" stands out for its diverse range of tracks that take listeners on a rollercoaster of emotions. From introspective pieces like "Aardvark" to the atmospheric beauty of the title track "Clarity," each song offers a glimpse into Gregory's inner world. Notable tracks like "Earlie Goodbye" blend genres seamlessly, creating a dynamic listening experience. Recorded in La Crosse, Wisconsin, and mastered by Lia Kahn in Denver, Colorado, this album is a testament to Gregory's evolution as an artist. With performances on the horizon, Guess Pre is set to captivate audiences with his energetic stage performance and endless passion to create.
Based out of Chicago, United States, NOBLE is an emerging artist making waves in the music scene with their original single, "Rapunzel In A Band Tee" featuring Cloudwalker. Blending the enchanting tale of Rapunzel with the contemporary electronic vibes of underground pluggnb, NOBLE's music delves into themes of deep romance and love, offering a fresh perspective rarely found in today's musical landscape. The track transcends genres, aiming to transport listeners to a realm where storybook princes serenade their beloved maidens from the heights of a castle.
Danny Heights is a Brantford-native who got his start on YouTube as a free-styling rapper in 2014. This up-and-coming independent artist is constantly writing and creating new music as a form of expression from his daily struggles and successes and aims to create relatable music for all of his fans and first-time listeners.
"With "Old Flavor," Live Musicis delivers not only an encouraging anthem but also a reflection of personal experiences and growth. The smooth recording process allowed Live Musicis to seamlessly intertwine lyrics with the music, creating a captivating vibe that sets this single apart. The recording process took place in Brooklyn, New York, adding a touch of significance as the Mecca of hip hop influenced the creation of this standout release."
"Recorded at Pen Pushaz Studios and expertly mixed and mastered at Audio Art Namibia by Wojtek Majewski, "Bitter Sweet" is a testament to Proklaim's dedication to their craft. The captivating sample on the beat inspired Proklaim to delve into the theme of love from a fresh perspective, resulting in a track that seamlessly combines heartfelt vocals with introspective rap verses."
"With "LSD," Proklaim draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including the captivating baseline that caught their attention while browsing beats online. Incorporating audio samples with a strong message, Proklaim has crafted a track that not only showcases their musical prowess but also delivers a powerful narrative. Recorded at Pen Pushaz Studios and mixed and mastered at Audio Art Namibia, the single stands out for its distinctive sound and meaningful content. Proklaim's passion for hip-hop and their belief in the genre's potential to drive change shines through in this release, making it a must-listen for music enthusiasts worldwide."
INTERVIEW WITH DANN TAYE
(•)> Cru cru Dann Taye! What first got you into music?
I used to study at the Institute of Music in London! Learning all aspects of music-making!
(•)> Was the institute of music like Hogwarts for musicians? What did you enjoy the most about studying in London?
Yes, it's like a Hogwarts for musicians haha! It was great there! Learning everything in musical production. It was also the same place for 90s UK R&b singer! Gabrielle went too!
(•)> Are you a fan of Britpop? What are some of your favorite english records of all time?
Of course, I'm a fan of Britpop! I'm British! And favourite records of all time! I'd have to say:
Queen! We will rock you!
The Police! Englishman in New York!
Phil Collins! In the air tonight
Oasis! Robbie Williams.
The list is endless
(•)> I'm Portuguese and I'm also a huge fan of Britpop!!! I don't believe every British is a fan of that volatile and iconic 90's movement aha Would you pick Oasis over Blur, Pulp, The Verve, or Suede?
I'd pick Oasis over the rest! But again! That's a personal choice! Everyone's taste will be different and all of them are equal! I prefer the songs from Oasis!
(•)> What's Oasis magnum opus? What's your favorite song by Oasis? Are you going to see the brothers on tour?
"Don't Look Back in Anger" & "Wonderwall"! These are my all-time favourites. Timeless classics. I'd like to see them perform! But I think there is a ticket shortage!!! They are selling fast haha
(•)> Fair enough, fair enough! Then, is it safe to assume that your favourite album from the brothers is "What's The Story Morning Glory?"
It is indeed! The good old days haha
(•)> What Britpop record /artist doesn't get the recognition it deserves? What other britpop groups should I check out besides the ones mentioned?
Other Britpop artists you should check out are Gorillaz! Moloko! Jamiroquai! The Happy Mondays! All great bands and artists.
(•)> I'm a huge fan of Gorillaz - Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlett are genius for coming up with that! What records from Jamiroquai and Moloko mean the most to you? I've been wanting to listen to Happy Mondays' "Pills N' Thrills" for a while but never got to it...
They are! It was very unique for its time! I love Jamiroquai's "Space Cowboy"! You should listen to the remix version it's timeless! And Molokos' "The Time is Now". That's another classic.
(•)> What about Moloko's Statues? That seems to be the most famous online, am I wrong?
"Statues" the album, yes! But singles! Sing it back & The time is now! Always a great choice to listen to
(•)> Alright! I'll add them both to my list! What's your favorite candy? Do you believe in the Candyman?
My favourite candy? Hmmm, you're not from the UK, right? You should try a Cadbury Creme Egg! You can thank me later for that recommendation lol Well considering my new SINGLE is called candy... maybe I am the candy man haha
(•)> I'm from Portugal. Candyman. Candyman. Candyman. I summoned you in front of a mirror. Why aren't you performing "Candy" on my house right now? Where can we see you perform your latest single?
Haha! Because this Candyman is busy streaming my new SINGLE worldwide right now! On all major streaming platforms ; ) I'm actually in talks to maybe performing in the States for a few at some point In the future! So when I have more finalized dates! I'll let you know
(•)> Thanks! When visit Lisbon, you should give "Pastel de Belém" a chance! It is on Yorgos Lathimos' "Poor Things"! She ate it all up!!!
Ooh sounds great! I'll have to give this place a try! 🤗
(•)> What's your favorite album from Queen? Did you see Bohemian Rhapsody? Do you have any thoughts on it?
Queen II - deluxe edition and Hot Space. It wasn't bad at all! Remi looked very convincing! He did well in that role! The Wembley Arena scene was almost identical to the real thing! It was great but not Queen! That actual performance was something special! That was a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
(•)> Do you sing in the shower?
No problem :) Of course, I sing in the shower! Who doesn't haha! I'll bust out some Bon Jovi or Aerosmith at times for sure!
(•)> What's the setlist when you're performing in the shower?
The set list would be:
Aerosmith - Dream on
Bon Jovi- Living on a Prayer
Red Hot Chilli Peppers - Danny Califonia
(•)> Will you tell us something embarrassing about you?
Something embarrassing about me? Hmmm !! I'm way too honest and sometimes this gets me into trouble! I have no filter lol
(•)> Do you agree with the Pigeon?
Of course!
"This soulful track is a powerful anthem designed to uplift believers in Christ and inspire all listeners to maintain their faith through life's challenges. With a unique blend of cultural influences and heartfelt lyrics, Darren's music resonates with audiences around the world."
"With MALCOLM, Kenny Aries delves into a deeply personal narrative, offering listeners a glimpse into his own experiences as a young individual navigating life in the UK."
"With this song, Dikundu takes us on a musical journey where we navigate through his emotions, his sadness, and his life while blending organic sounds with the modern trap of Atlanta."
INTERVIEW WITH 416DEDE
1. Hey 416DEDE, super nice to have the chance to chat with you. What first got you into music?
I’ve been into music ever since I was a kid. I would always think that I could make it in the music industry if I tried. I’ve had some ups and downs but I haven’t stopped going cuz i want to keep chasing my dreams.
2. Who inspired you to make music?
Honestly I just started doing it from straight motivation myself. I never been the type of person that needed someone else to push me. I just do what I need to do to get myself in the right positions.
3. What is the best advice you’ve been given?
I would say don’t set yourself on fire trying to keep others warm. Its tough where i’m free cuz you want everyone to make it but not everybody thinking like me. I got my own ways of doing things. Its difficult to leave people just cuz they ain't in the right mindset.
4. How do you structure your day?
I basically go to work, pick my kid up from school, come home and work on music. Im always trying to minimize my list of things to do so that i can get more done with music.
5. Are you a music fan?
Yeah i listen to all kinds of music. I really like the temptations even though I don’t make music like that.
6. What’s your favorite discography?
Probably everything Kevin Gates. He has some of the best catalogs in the game.
7. What jobs have you done other than being an artist?
I’ve worked fast food, tire shops, delivery jobs, all kinds of things. I just grind hard and make it work.
8. How do you spend your time?
I love hanging with my woman and my little girl. We like going out to eat and doing fun stuff with my daughter. Other than that I'm in my music.
9. What makes you sad?
All the stuff that America be tripping over. It don’t bother me but its sad that we can’t just be happy with everyone.
INTERVIEW WITH RYLAI
1. Hey Rylai, super nice to have the chance to chat with you. What first got you into music?
It was like the late 2000s. I was in elementary school. I came across a K-pop hit, "Last Farewell" by Big Bang, I was hooked on that song, and I started digging for more.
2. Your latest song is “Testimony” . Can you tell us more about the making of it and if any unusual things were happening during the process?
I'ma tell you when I came across the Testimony beat for the first time. It was last year when I met Enoch, the producer behind the Testimony beat. I was at a small lockout studio of a rapper I had just met on the Internet. We were playing beats and vibing, and the Testimony beat came out.
Soon as I heard the beat, the groove, and how the instruments were orchestrated, I felt this beat was really special. I freestyled at that instant, It was gibberish, but the flow sounded perfect.
Later that day, I came back to my own lockout and started to write down kind of my own stories on that flow and that's how Testimony came out.
3. When did you fall in love with hip hop?
Hip Hop is life. Lots of great MCs have let out their stories, life lessons, and style through their bars. I love Hip Hop's competitive nature. We try to rhyme more and come up with the best stories. I'm a Kendrick Lamar fan. His bars inspire me to push the lyrical boundaries further.
4. What is it about music that makes you feel passionate?
That there is a lot of room for me to do anything what I want. I started making melodies since I was young, and I got lots of great melodies and ideas I haven't let out yet.I would love to make those into real sounds and bring them into reality.
5. What is the best advice you’ve been given?
My grandma said after she read Testimony lyrics, She told me, "Believe in yourself that you're special. Keep pushing. You will reach the point one day." That really touched me, and it means a lot to me.
6. What jobs have you done other than being an artist?
I'm a college student. Other than that, I've done math tutoring for high schoolers. I've cooked at a local restaurant and worked at construction sites.
7. How do you spend your time?
These days, I love watching YouTube,I also like riding my bike and running through my city. I also love digging for more music.I would love to get inspired by new sounds!
8. I'm also a huge Kendrick Lamar fan! Would you rank his albums from your least fav to your all time fav? (including the new realese from 2022: Mr. Morale & The Bigsteppers)
Oh, each of his albums is all great for different reasons.
I think Mr. Morale & Big steppers is great with building up the narrative, good kid, m.A.A.d city has a great K-Dot origin story. And TPAB is on the whole other level!
But if I have to pick my personal favorite, It's good kid, m.A.A.d city, the way he conveys the story and how he's using the skits inspired me a lot. I go back to the songs on good kid, m.A.A.d city the most. And my second favorite is DAMN, it has so many great songs, and I love its song productions.The next is TPAB, and lastly, Mr. Morale & Big steppers.
9. Is To Pimp A Butterfly the best album of the 2010's?
Before I talk about the TPAB, I gotta say that I don't listen to lots of albums. I don't think I can compare many great albums to say which one is better than the other.
But listening to TPAB was a whole other experience. You know, he recites a poem between tracks and adds a sentence each time, and it works perfectly with the songs and context, how they're all cohesively running to the theme; it's something else. 2Pac interview at the end is also genius.
From the writer's point of view, cause I'm a writer, I think TPAB is unparalleled and inimitable.
I don't think anybody could come up with a hip-hop album as great as TPAB, at least not in this century.
10. What's your favorite youtube channel?
I don't have a particular favorite channel. Most of the time, I just click on what's popping on recommend section. It could be travel videos, music-related, memes, or sometimes gameplay streaming.