Wale-Ambition (Album Cover)

Wale dropped his album cover for Ambition today via twitter. The album will be released 11/1/11. CLICK TO PRE-ORDER

-Photo Chic

50/50-BLACK (video)

Kandi Cole and Miki Vale are 50/50. I'm digging this video! BLACK!

-Photo Chic

Signif - S.I.G.M.A.T.A. (Video)

SIGNIF ~ S.I.G.M.A.T.A. from SigNif on Vimeo.

'S.I.G.M.A.T.A." is a track from Signif's latest EP Significant Wizdom. The video was directed by Darren Alexander Cole. Enjoy!!


-Mixtape Chic

Hip Hop ChicZ Exclusive: The Nitty Gritty (Part I)

“to be apart of a movement and not an industry, to be socially responsible and charitable with her influence, to inspire art and educated listeners, to promote substance in mainstream entertainment, to be praised by critical acclaim, and to document an era via the written word” ~ Nitty Scott, MC

If you were to see Nitty Scott, MC walking down the street you would not think she was tough, let alone an emcee. Her short stature and pretty face always give people the wrong idea. Let me tell you one thing, DON’T LET HER CUTE FACE FOOL YOU!!! Nitty embraces her femininity while conquering your ears with her conscious flow. She represents more than just the music, she represents the culture of Hip Hop. 

While in NY for Rock the Bells, Hip Hop ChicZ got a chance to interview the emcee. This is the Nitty Gritty…

VIVA LA BOOMBOX!

-Mixtape Chic









In Part I of this series, Nitty Scott, MC tells us about herself. She discusses her collaboration with California emcee, Rocky Rivera and breaks down "FeminiNitty." Stay tuned for more!


Nitty Scott, MC from HipHopChicZ on Vimeo.

-Photo Chic

Big Sean-Finally Famous Tour (Trailer)

Some of that merch is wild...literally! Big Sean puts on a great live show, so make sure you catch him on one of these stops. I wasn't going to go to the Albuquerque show because I wasn't digging the album that much, but Shawn Chrystopher is opening, so I may have to reconsider being in the building for that! :-)

-Photo Chic

Wale ft Miguel-Lotus Flower Bomb (audio)

Yo! I love this song. Kudos to Wale on this one. So approved!!!

-Photo Chic

Hip Hop & Love Tour - First Show - Tempe, AZ

The Hip Hop and Love Tour kicked off Tuesday night in Tempe, AZ.  Murs, Tabi Bonney, Ski Beatz, Da$h, McKenzie Eddy, Locksmith and more performed at The Clubhouse with an exhilarating and intimate concert for us hip hop heads.  We got to hear songs and beats spanning the past two decades from Murs and Ski Beatz, as well as songs off of Tabi Bonney’s new album that dropped yesterday, Summer Years.  Check out some footage below of these amazing artists.

After the concert, I had the opportunity to converse with Murs while grabbing various flavors of his current addiction, Arizona Iced Tea.  We started off discussing the state of Black relationships and how they are essentially doomed.  One thing (out of many) that Murs does, and he does well, is his ability to be brutally honest about his thoughts on things. 

We talked about his thoughts on how Black American men are scum and how Black American relationships are doomed.  We then got into a discussion about how Black Americans as a whole are doomed (statistically speaking) if you look at incarceration rates, divorce rates and rate of single black women never married.  We discussed how, in part, this comes from the American mentality of making money, which negates a focus on family, and now we are in this situation where the value of family does not exist.  Women started working, men kept working and this boosted America’s goal of being the richest country in the world; however, it has cost America its foundation of growth – family. 

By way of this topic, we discussed marriage and touring and how that dynamic looks.  This led into a discussion on touring and the difference between getting your music out there before technology versus now with the Internet.  Murs remembered that before the internet and social media people use to send music through the mail, and also, how artists would often times go live in other countries for a few months and hustle in foreign countries to develop a following.  Artists in this technology based environment do not get to experience what its like for it to take time to build your fan base by going to their country, sitting next to them on public transportation, learning their customs and etc.  Nowadays, artists gather a fan base overnight through social media. 

My favorite part of this whole conversation was after, as we were saying goodbyes, elevator music was playing from a local patio bar and Murs wrapped his arms around his wife and started slow dancing with her.  It was so simple, but an amazing site to see. 

Check out Hip Hop and Love Tour for more information and a show near you.

peAce,

Network Chic

And make sure to download The Hip Hop and Love Tour Mixtape RIGHT HERE!

-Photo Chic

Wind-It-Back Wednesday - J. Cole

For a lot of people, yesterday was your first introduction to J. Cole. So we're winding it back so you can see what all the hype has been about. You've got a lot of catching up to do. :-)

One of my favorite J. Cole songs:






The Warm Up!


Who Dat


One of my favorite interviews!


Friday Night Lights


In the Morning


-Photo Chic

Wind-it-Back-Wednesday: Little Brother

In honor of Phonte and 9th Wonder both dropping their respective solo projects yesterday, it's only right to wind it back to the days of Little Brother (where it all started):




Little Brother Ft Joe Scudda - Lovin' It by yuu2006





-Photo Chic

106 and Park Presents J. Cole

Today J. Cole gave a 30 minute show following 106 and Park's regular program. Best part of this? He performed "Cole World"! How dat feel? Very Happy!!!



-Photo Chic

Can't Get Enough!

Can't get enough of J. Cole! Check out video of when J. Cole surprised fans in Union Square in NYC.

-Photo Chic

Audra the Rapper Sweet and Sour Cypher

We see you Tabi!!!!!

-Photo Chic

Phonte - Charity Starts At Home (Album Review)

Mixtape Chic gives it 4 out of 5 sneaks

Let me just start by saying “Dat boy good! *Coming to America voice*.  Some would say that artists should either sing or rap and not both but Phonte did both and it worked exponentially.  The combination of the two throughout the album shows Phonte’s versatility as an artist. This ablum should not be overlooked by anyone. There is something for all Hip Hop lovers on what we now know as Charity Starts At Home.

Unexpectedly, Phonte brings out his ‘lover’ side on more than a few tracks. On “Sending My Love” Phonte comes at you with a smooth delivery of his ever clever lyrics on this track. Likewise to “Ball and Chain,” the beat is fresh, being head bob worthy but smooth at the same time. You can ride to both of these tracks. Phonte’s combination of singing and rapping on the latter are complimentary. “To Be Loved” is a love song that is short, sweet and leaves you wanting more from the track. However, it is still a great addition to the track and a good transition to the next. On to the slow jam that is “Gonna Be a Beautiful Night.” It’s the type of track that is played at the end of the club. This Carlitta Durand assisted track breathes in your ears with ease. Another track regarding relationships comes in the form of “Who Loves You More.” The chorus reminds me of something that would be done by the likes of Stevie Wonder, which makes it an instant love.  Now on to the ‘not-so-love’ songs…

“Dance in the Reign” is Phonte’s ode to the newbies. Basically saying, he’s been here and is not going anywhere. Even with him being MIA for nearly ten years, he’s still better than most. While “The Good Fight” has a mellow feel, the track brings you into Phonte’s mindset as an artist. ‘Tired of playin with yall. I wanna fight the good fight. But it ain’t payin dog.’ He’s doing things the fair way but is getting nowhere. The beat is less aggressive but fits the premise.  A song of struggle, “Everything Is Falling Down” has a chorus that presses: ‘Pushing me to the brink. A stagger in my footsteps & I don’t even drink. Its so much on my mind dog & I can’t even think.’ The beat seems amature but it is neither a hit nor miss. The Elzhi featured “Not Here Anymore” has a stunning sample with impressive lyrics that fill the track from beginning to end. Both emcees bring the heat for you to feel.  “Eternally” is Median assisted and a must-listen. With Phonte and Median exchanging rhymes that make you rewind and confirm what was actually said. Proven skills are evident on this track. The beat is overpowered by the lyrics. It seems too simple but at the same time it if there was more to it, it may not have worked.  Tough lyrics to a beat that is too soft for its purpose loses the listener on “We Go Off.” Featuring Pharoahe Monch, the production needed something more to it. The beat would better suit a different track. I appreciate the sample on “The Life of Kings.” Although, Evidence seems to be lost in the song, Big K.R.I.T. and Phonte fit the track to perfection. It was made for them.

This album is a smash! Phonte always comes correct with his lyrics. Of course, it has its disappointments but all in all it is good. I will be recommending it to the skeptics. 

Photo Chic gives it 4.5 out of 5 sneaks

“Yes Phontigga spit, amazon flame watch 9th re-Kindle it, cause i-Pad verses with the wisdom of my innocence lost" -Phonte

That right there pretty much sums up the genius of Phonte’s bars and there is much more that Charity Starts At Home has to offer. When Phonte goes over a 9th Wonder beat, magical things happen. If you are a fan of Little Brother, you already know how this goes. Let’s talk about Phonte, the solo emcee, though and another one of the best albums of 2011!

“Dance in the Reign” sets off the vibe of the album right away. Phonte’s delivery is flawless. The beat...the beat. Right from the jump this album establishes that North Carolina feeling that we’ve come to know and love. Yep, not New York, not California...that NORTH CAROLINA feeling! “The Good Fight” continues the vibe. This is a song that’s relatable to a lot of people now. “How the f*ck you sell out, when ain’t nobody sellin’?” It’s a real song, dealing with real people problems and told as a witty story by Phonte, the great. “Everything is Falling Down” continues that vibe. I know when I have a hard day, this is going to be the album that I go too to get myself back together again. 

“Not Here Anymore” is just a beautiful song where Phonte drops the line that I opened this review with. The hook is sung by Phonte, showing those that may not know, his versatile talent. I must admit, when I heard Phonte was dropping his solo project, I was worried I’d hear more singing than rapping. Especially since he does both extremely well. He gave me a very good balance with this album though and I’m pleased. Oh, and Elzhi is on the track. Can you really go wrong with that?

“Eternally” features Median and as far as features go, this is my favorite on the album. I love the back and forth flow between Phonte and Median on this track. This is the kind of stuff I was hoping Jay-Z and Kanye West were going to bring to Watch the Throne, but didn’t. 

“Sendin My Love” is a song that I think will appeal to all the old lovers out there. It’s a true story. The married people’s jam. “Ni**a be strong!” I love the production on this one by Stro Elliot. Now, this track goes right into “Ball and Chain,” a stand out single off of this album. This one made me want to kick my dogs because it’s so good. I even got a spoiler before hearing it and it still knocked my socks off. When I talk about a perfect balance of singing and rapping, this song drives that point home. The perfect fusion of the two to make an incredible jam. This is my favorite track off the album. 

“Too Be Yours” is a nice transition into “Gonna Be a Beautiful Night,” which is also another track that makes me say DAAAMMMMNNNNN. This album is definitely going to appeal to the female population. This track belongs on all slow jam playlists from here on out. Make sure it’s on there!

“We Go Off” brings us back to the raw hip hop. The production by Fatin makes my neck sore. Head bobbing in full effect. Pharoahe Monch is a nice addition to the song, too. This song makes me want to slap someone. It goes hard...“Macro-hard, never Micro-soft!” Next up “Life of Kings” produced by 9th Wonder and features two very dope emcees by the name of Evidence and Big K.R.I.T. I love these guys individually and for them to come together over this 9th beat, makes me extremely happy. K.R.I.T.’s verse on this...OH MY!!!

Every great album must come to an end. Phonte ends it with “Who Loves You More,” another head bobber for me. A great song to vibe yourself out of the album too. If that makes any sense.

My only complaint about this album...too short. I could have rocked to 20 tracks by Phonte, but at the end of the day, I am more than pleased with this project. Why didn’t I give it a 5? I’m just a rugged hip hop chic. At times it was just a tad bit too soulful for my taste. Don’t get me wrong, I still love it! I really do, but I’m just not that soft of a female to appreciate it on a “perfect” level. Lol. 

Hip Hop and Love Tour

That's right. The Hip Hop and Love Tour kicks off tonight in Tempe, Arizona at The Clubhouse. Hip Hop ChicZ will be in the building! See you all there (well, not me, but Network Chic)! Also, make sure you get Tabi Bonney's The Summer Years that just dropped TODAY!!!!

-Photo Chic

Cole World: The HipHopChicZ Story

As we drove back to New Mexico after J. Cole's sold out show in Phoenix, we had the pleasure of listening to the greatness that is Cole World: The Sideline Story. Don't try this at home. Photo Chic is a trained professional driver and head bobber. Anyway. This is what may happen to you when you slide this CD in your deck. Be careful!



-Photo Chic and Mixtape Chic

J. Cole-Cole World: The Sideline Story (Album Review)

Photo Chic gives it 5 out of 5 Sneaks

Now, I’ve been thinking for a while how I can put this all into words. I’m sure a lot of you are going to think I’m biased right away, because I’m a huge Cole fan, but I can be a fan of an artist and still call an album whack if it’s whack. See my review on Big Sean’s Finally Famous for instance. Bottom line though, this album is the best to come out so far this year. As I’m writing this, keep in mind that I haven’t listened to 9th Wonder or Phonte’s albums yet, so again, my opinion can still change. Let’s focus on Cole World: The Sideline Story first though.

It’s hard to keep a review like this brief, especially when the emcee is responsible for 80% of the production as well as lyrics. There are 3 factors that all work on this album that each deserve to be evaluated separately (but I’ll try to fuse them together). Those factors are production, lyricism and commercial appeal and J. Cole has won in every category. We’ve all been waiting a long time for this album and I think J. Cole did what a lot of people thought would be impossible: Appealing to the mainstream, while still staying true to his roots and the music that gave him one of the most craziest fan followings of an artist without an album out EVER. 

The title of the album is fitting, Cole World: The Sideline Story plays like reading a book. Cole opens with a warm intro where you feel like you’re sitting in the room with him and goes into a flow reminiscent of the opening to Friday Night Lights over the piano, building into the anticipation of Dollar and a Dream III. I don’t know how many other people can make a sequel to a song, let alone a third one, and each one is better than the previous. For those new to Cole, this is a great introduction to him. He lays out who he is, his vices, his evils, his career, his skills, all in one song with amazing production.

After the heaviness of the first track, we move onto lighter subject matter as Cole pairs with (a guy I personally think sucks as a singer) Trey Songz for “Can’t Get Enough.”  This songs production is crazy, but one of the few tracks not produced by J. Cole. This beat makes me overlook the fact that Trey Songz is on Cole’s debut album. It’s a catchy hook and the ladies love it. +1 for a commercially appealing song that doesn’t suck.  

People forget that just because J. Cole has given us 3 album quality mixtapes, not everyone has heard of him. Choosing “Lights Please” and “In the Morning” to go on the album was a smart move. “Lights Please” put him on the map and essentially got him signed. New fans need to hear it. Old fans can still feel it. It’s one of those songs that doesn’t even get old. Flows great in the storyline. You can’t get enough of this girl and then you get her in the bedroom. Simple, right?

The next interlude tells the story of the day that J. Cole got signed. Again, you feel like he’s there, telling you the story. The whole album gives you that personal feeling. Cole introduces himself to you and then gets himself comfortable in your home. He sits on your couch and helps himself to your food and drink. He’s here to stay with this album.

“Sideline Story” is up next. This beat is super nice. Gives you that initial head bob flow. Then as you let it sink in, you absorb the content. Again he tells us a story...his story. The come up...2011.

Enough of the serious stuff for a moment as J. Cole takes us into “Mr. Nice Watch,” where he lays into how dope he is. His bars kill. The production is unexpected and the more you listen the better it gets. Of course you’re going to have Jay-Z featured on a stand out, unique beat such as this. This is hip hop. You brag on yourself, so of course you get the Jigga Man to cosign you on this one! He’s mastered flossin’. He’s who Cole wants to surpass. I think this was the perfect song for the only rap feature on the album (and no, I’m not counting Drake as a true rap feature...lol).

“Cole World” continues the flossin’ vibe. This one goes hard! When I first listened, I was bouncing all over the house to this one.  “How dat feel? Very happy!” is the new motto. Trend-setter Cole at work. Again, the production makes you wanna slap someone and flip tables over. 

Now we move to “In the Morning,” where the story softens up. This one is for the ladies. Fellas, if you want the business, go ahead and throw this on the slow jamz mix. I’m just saying. I’ve been listening to this song for almost a year and I never skip it when it comes on. Although, I prefer the original version, the commercial appeal of Drake is a good move. I’m not even mad. 

Now that you smashed raw, we go into the storyline of the consequences of this action. “Lost Ones” is essentially an instant classic to me. The dialogue between the characters paired with the beat is amazing. Another song you can really feel. When it comes on, you listen. The production is beautiful with the violin crying over the piano and bass. Even my mom loves this track and listened to the lyrics the first time she heard it (my mom is a total beat lady normally and doesn’t listen to wordplay). 

The story continues and starts to lighten up a bit with “Nobody’s Perfect.” I am so happy that Cole put Missy Elliot on his debut. It was one of the tracks I was anticipating the most and it didn’t let me down. Missy Elliot kills this hook. Throw that on your slow jamz mix too, fellas.

“Never Told” is another track not produced by J. Cole. No I.D. gets credit for this mellow tune that speaks volumes. Unfortunately, this song is too relatable in our culture. “One night stands, no best man, no bridesmaids, no reverends...” It’s a true story that a lot of us live or are destined for.

“Rise and Shine” opens with Jay Z talking about the kid that’s trying to take his spot. That would be J. Cole! Great introduction to an amazing track. This production is bananas. The drums, the choir...what?! Yeah. Listen. This is another one that takes quite a few listens to let all the amazingness sink in. Cole’s delivery on this track hits hard. Don’t even think about listening to this song just once. You really can’t speak on it off of just one listen. You’ll miss a lot. Just saying.

If you blink you might not notice that this goes right into “God’s Gift” without missing a beat...literally. I heard the live version of “God’s Gift” and I knew it was a gem. Again, the beat! The production is crazy. “Jigga wouldn’t even take my CD when he seen me, 2 years later, bitch we made it, on on to the BLUEPRINT.” That’s motivation for all you aspiring emcees (although I would hang it up after listening to this album :-p). Oh, and did you hear the Bone Thugz and Harmony reference? Subtle, but effective. I see you Cole! 

Next up, “Breakdown.” Another relatable story for all the fatherless children. This song chokes me up. The line “maybe I should be telling you f**k you cause you selfish, but I want a father so bad, I can’t help but breakdown” does it to me every time and I have a father. I can’t imagine what this song feels like for those who don’t.  The production is beautiful, too. Y’all hear that flute though?! Yep.

Okay, it’s sad, but now it’s time to “Cheer Up.” There are so many women I know that need this song in their life. I want to buy the album for each one of them. :-) I remember when I first heard this song, the sample was driving me crazy because I knew I knew it, but I couldn’t put my finger on it. That’s the kind of genius production that Cole brings to the table. It’s in there, but you can’t easily identify it. I hate him for that...in a good way.

That ends the story, but there’s bonus material. Depending on where you purchase your album from, it’s different, so I won’t speak on the bonus cuts. I will say this though: “Daddy’s Little Girl” is one of the best bonus tracks ever. I still can’t believe it’s just a bonus track. So make sure you definitely buy that single on iTunes if you don’t have it on your version of Cole World: The Sideline Story.

I realized I don’t even have any favorites on this album. I like them all. I can listen straight through without skipping anything (and I’m a huge skipper). Cole really did a good job with this debut. I wasn’t really doubting that it would be good, but I really wasn’t expecting it to be as good as it is. GOOD! Potential classic good (and you know I don’t use that term lightly). This album carries a feeling to it, which is lacking in a lot of our modern hip hop. The 90s gave you that FEELING and Cole’s bringing it back. He just set the bar and hopefully everyone follows suit on this one.

Mixtape Chic gives it 4.75 out of 5 Sneaks

Expectations were high for this debut from J.Cole. With this being Cole’s introduction to the mainstream, it had to have commercially appealing tracks as well as those story-laced tracks that his fans know him for. J. Cole succeeded in this sense. Some fans feel like once you’re signed or even when you get a co-sign from someone like Jay, that you’ve made and you no longer need to prove your skills to the rest of the world. J.Cole, on the other hand, knows that he still has a way to go when it comes to being called the greatest of his time. This fact is evident on the album that is Cole World: The Sideline Story.

“Can’t Get Enough” is a definite radio track. With the help of R&B crooner Trey Songz, Cole touches on the lure of addiction; addiction to the body that is. Its production is what makes it publicly appealing.  Missy Elliott graces the chorus of “Nobody’s Perfect” with a soulful sound that at first listen disguises the subject matter of the track. This was a perfect use of Missy’s vocal skills as some were worried that she would be flowing on the track when the track list was revealed. Now, “Mr. Nice Watch” is what I call the most hated on song on the album. Not sure why people don’t understand the importance of this track for the album. Cole is showing that he can be arrogant too. He went through a great deal to get to where he is so he wants his time to brag. “It cost me a lot. My chain and my watch. They say time is money but really its not.” The cost of his fame was not money it was sacrifice and time given. The energetic wordplay of “Cole World” is a side of Cole that I appreciate.

The third installation to “Dollar & a Dream” fits well with the premise of the other two installations. All he had was a little and he made it more than he could have ever dreamed of. I especially appreciate his reference to Stevie Wonder, “Life can’t get any worse. Stevie with his glasses off.” Even though all he has is a dollar and a dream, he can’t get any lower because he won’t let himself get lower. On “Sideline Story” Cole shows us that he made his own way. No one showed him what to do even though, at times, he wishes someone would have. The drum-heavy production got me on “Rise & Shine.” The build-up is dynamic on its own. The song starts off soft as the ‘oohs’ come through the speakers but then as they get louder and louder Cole comes in tough, “Like we always do it this time! Cole blowin your mind.” He also says, “Hey Dummy, this no accident, all of this was designed.” His way of telling us his road was planned, including the time it took for him to release his debut. While showing us he is what the world has been waiting for on “God’s Gift.” Cole plays both sides in this story of an unwanted pregnancy on “Lost Ones.” Abortion is hinted at throughout the track with role playing that shows how Cole’s story telling skills. You feel like you are watching the entire scene unfold on a TV screen.  Emotion filled “Breakdown” brings us closer to how Cole felt throughout his life about his father.  You hear the tale of a girl thinking she is grown before she actually is on “Daddy’s Little Girl.” The “daddy” on this track seems to be her boyfriend/lover. It’s a story that we have all seen and/or heard many times and J. Cole puts it together well.

It is indeed a rare occasion to find an album that you can listen to the entire way through (Intros & Interludes included) without skipping. This is especially true when the emcee himself has provided majority of the production on the project. He is the definition of a thorough threat to the game.

Overall, the album flows without missteps or flops. J.Cole did what he needed to do to get the attention of fans, old and new.

5 out of 5 sneaks

I’m sure that many of you are going to read this before buying J. Cole’s DEBUT album, Cole World: The Sideline Story, and you are going to think that our review is biased because of how much we support and are fans of J. Cole and his artistry.  However, you are wrong.  In fact, open ITunes or go to Target and buy this album right now.  Do it, right now, I’ll wait…………………

Now listen…..

Ok, now you see what we are talking about!  This album is the business. 

Cole opens up with a soothing piano intro that takes you into a Dollar and a Dream III.  For any Cole newbie, this is the third Dollar and a Dream with the first two being on The Come Up and The Warm Up.  It’s one of my favorite songs on both mixtapes, and also on this album.  Everyone can relate to the struggle of achieving their goals whether you start from the bottom or you are handed your dreams.  In order to keep pioneering, one has to fight and stand for one’s dream and accept the sacrifices that come with it.  “This life gets hard on this road, …but I suck it up for who, my fans and my mans who probably never ever had this type of lifestyle in their plans.” 

Next up is Can’t Get Enough ft. Trey Songz.  To be honest, the first time I heard this song I was not feelin’ it; however, as I listened to it over and over, I started feelin’ it.  The song is exactly what a single needs to be; it has a good beat, catchy hook and easy-to-follow flow.

Following this is another one of my all-time Cole songs, Lights Please.  This tells a story of a relationship that is based on nothing but sex, regardless of what one person wants to build out of it or show the other person.  I love the production and melodic story Cole lays out for us.  Following this is the interlude and it provides some additional insight to Cole’s pursuit of his dreams. 

We then get a beautiful track called Sideline Story.  Cole talks about opportunity in this track – changing for the better, being able to gauge that change, and proving others wrong.  “When I was ass out with my funds low, it was nice to know I had the whole world at my front door.”  Talk about optimism and hope!

Following this is the much anticipated track featuring Jay-Z, Mr. Nice Watch.  While it left me wanting more out of it, it’s a solid song that is going to get mad airplay.  And, when you’re blazing your path, sometimes, that’s all you need to continue to propel you.  I know as I keep playing this, it’s going to keep growing on me and I accept that. 

Cole World – “…problem with the game now there ain’t no innovation.  I see my shit all in your shit and call it imitation, and they say that’s flattering, but I ain’t flattered at all.  Matter of fact, ya’ll need to practice that more.”  This is Cole’s braggadocious track and it goes hard!  Everything from the beat to his flow – I get hype every time I hear this song.

We mellow out a bit and move into In the Morning featuring Drake.  This is a great song and a perfect song to break up what could be a very “dark” album.

Next, we move into one of the most touching songs on the album, Lost Ones.  This song discusses a situation that is happens all too often from both sides of the story.  There are so many children not only in my generation, but in the following generation as well that are raised in single parent households and do not have relationships with (usually) their father.  This song shows the reaction of what both men and women (or boys and girls) experience when faced with unplanned pregnancy.  At the end of the day, like Cole says, “What about your seed, nigga?” 

Moving right along, we end up with Nobody’s Perfect featuring Missy Elliot.  Another banger, this beat is melodic, simplistic and delivers us curbside to the hook, “Nobody’s perfect, uh, nobody’s perfect, eh, eh, uh, but you perfect for me….”  “We rollin, we ridin… I love to call your name….”  Ahhh, seriously, this song is a perfect blend of Cole and Missy and came out amazing.

Never Told moves us into a tangled web of relationships and the all too familiar experience for many of heartache, cheating, secrecy and the perceived shame associated with these so called failed relationships.  

We then get into Rise and Shine and God’s Gift– whew, let me tell you.  These tracks right here…man, I don’t even have words to describe them, but I will try anyways.  The intro into Rise and Shine draws you in and he hits you with these fierce one liners, “I ain’t got a gimic, I just flow,” “Cause the ones ya’ll thought would save the day can’t even tie my boots,” and “The ones ya’ll thought could hang with me can’t even tie my noose.”  Love it!  Right after that is such an amazing track, God’s Gift.  I can’t lie, the production on this track is the sh*t!  I can still clearly picture Cole performing this at the AZ show and it rocks.

Breakdown goes through a reflection of many male’s plight in today’s age in not knowing their father whose “blood type flowing through [their] veins is the same.”  Also, it shows how boys feel like they have to be men as they watch their moms struggle and their fathers raise other children.  There are a few different bonus tracks, but Daddy’s Little Girl and Nothing Lasts Forever are perfect additions.  In fact, the latter reminds me of Common’s I Used to Love H.E.R. because of its play on words.   

While there are tons of things I LOVE about this album, including how conceptual it is, the track list, musicality, original production and etc., what I love most about this album is that everyone can relate to Cole’s tracks and he is an amazing storyteller.  While each track speaks to something specific, there are themes throughout that are reflective not only of Cole’s upbringing, pursuit, pain, and dreams, but all of our lives.  Now, don’t get me wrong, I do want to see Cole become a stronger visionary and I will continue to watch how his structural base for expressiveness grows.  But, in the end, Cole’s “got the nerds rapping hard sh*t, dummy’s rapping smart sh*t.”  “How that feel?  Very Happy.”  Cole World, no blanket.

peAce,

Network Chic

Cole World Week!

Y'all getting tired of Cole yet? It's okay. We're less than 2 hours away from the release of Cole World: The Sideline Story. Everyone will catch on soon enough. Complex Magazine catches on early and coined this week "Cole World Week!" Read all about the Mr Nice Watch by clicking the link below!

http://www.complex.com/music/2011/09/j-cole-special-complex-cover

-Photo Chic

J. Cole's Next Single is...

According to this interview..."Nobody's Perfect" will be Cole's next single to drop. I'm not mad about that either. :-)



-Photo Chic

Mac Miller - Smile Back (Video)

-Mixtape Chic

Chiddy Bang - Mind Your Manners (Video)

This is the unofficial video for Chiddy Bang's "Mind Your Manners," which is their first single from their upcoming album Breakfast. The album was supposed to drop in July but has been pushed back. So, while waiting for the album enjoy this visual from these guys.

-Mixtape Chic

Yelawolf f. Lil Jon - Hard White (Up In The Club) (Video)

-Mixtape Chic

YaYa Talks to Cole (Part 2)

In Part 2 of our interview, I ask J. Cole what the exact reason for the album push back was, his favorite memory from tour so far, and if his purpose has changed along with his popularity. Also there’s some footage in here where he is interacting with Power 98.3 listeners while they get to preview his album.

-YaYa Martinez


Courtesy of: Cole World Interview: J. Cole X Yaya Martinez ( Part 2) from Yaya Martinez on Vimeo.

Check out Part 2 of YaYa's interview with Cole.  He is well on his way to being known from North Carolina to China!  ColeWorld: The Sideline Story - 9.27.11. 

peAce,

Network Chic

XV - When We're Done (Video)

One of my favorite tracks from XV's Zero Heroes, "When We're Done" encourages you to do what you want now and live life till you can't live it anymore. Check out the visual for this track...ENJOY!!!

-Mixtape Chic

MURS-Remember to Forget (video)

New video from MURS...very dope. I'm really digging this song a lot!

-Photo Chic

Voli-Stress (video)

I'm lovin me some Voli. Make sure you check his mixtape because it is super refreshing! (under our mixtape features) --->

-Photo Chic

J. Cole Performs "Nobody's Perfect" in NYC!

We rollin, we ridin, we like to go inside and...

-Photo Chic

Studio Sunday-Omen Previews Numb

Omen previews a track from his upcoming mixtape, Afraid of Heights called Numb written from the perspective of a homeless man. Mixtape is due out 10/31/11 this Halloween



Eh hem...Afraid of Heights is going to be a problem!

-Photo Chic

Studio Sunday-MURS

DD172/BluRoc label head Damon Dash appears alongside his roster - Tabi Bonney, McKenzie Eddy, Ski Beatz, Da$h and Sean O'Connell - in the fifth installment of the exclusive behind-the-scenes peek at the making of Love & Rockets Vol. 1: The Transformation, Murs' new album dropping October 11. The Hip Hop & Love Tour kicks off September 27 in Tempe, AZ featuring Murs and the whole gang, and will make its way around the country before wrapping up in Tucson on November 26. Visit HipHopAndLoveTour.com for tour dates and more. 




I'm really looking forward to this album and the tour stop in Tucson, hopefully Albuquerque too!!!

-Photo Chic

J. Cole-Heir to the Throne

J. Cole covers Rolling Out magazine and I must say that I'm loving these shots by Keith Major. Check out the story here: http://rollingout.com/covers/j-cole-heir-to-the-throne/

Photos below:

-Photo Chic

J. Cole-Daddy's Little Girl (Music Video)

Mosaic is done and J. Cole drops a video for the best bonus track on an album ever...imho. Check out the video and the completed picture!

http://www.jcolemusic.com/us/mosaic

-Photo Chic

So Live Saturday-J.Cole at Venue of Scottsdale

We waited in line all day to be in the front row of this sold out show, so please believe, I was going to enjoy the show, not record it. Luckily for us, Arizona's own, Miss Dimplez, got it all on video. So here ya go! Enjoy.

Higher (I swear I see the hand of one of the annoying/rude male groupies behind me just posted up in this video)


A Star is Born


Work Out


Can't Get Enough (Sure do wish I coulda bounced...sure do wish. Shout out to the dudes that smooshed me up against the barrier gate and ruined my Dreamville shirt. Y'all are a real piece of work. SMH.)


Farewell (3:14 mark...that's us. Cole lost track of time though. 3 shows in a total of 3 months, not 1 month, but time flies when you're waiting on Cole World: The Sideline Story to drop! We love you Cole...you da shit! :-p)


-Photo Chic

So Live Saturday-DJ Dummy at Sunshine Theater

Last time DJ Dummy was in the area, we did an INTERVIEW and PHOTO SHOOT but we were wayyyyy back in the grass during J. Cole's performance opening for Rihanna. This time, we were in our usual spot in the front of the Sunshine Theater to watch Dummy KILL IT! Worth the wait and the assault from male groupies. Lol. Peep why we LOVE this guy:



-Photo Chic

So Live Saturday-Cole World Tour (Southwest Edition)

Hip Hop ChicZ were definitely in the buildings when J. Cole took his Cole World tour through New Mexico and Arizona. Mixtape Chic and I had to hit up both shows and we met up with Network Chic in Arizona. Here is just a little taste of what you missed. I wasn't about to miss out on the awesome energy of the show by filming everything, so we just have a few clips. Don't forget to check out the LOOK BOOK too if you haven't already. If J. Cole comes anywhere near you on this tour, I highly suggest you go check him out. Tuesday, Cole World: The Sideline Story drops. I expect everyone to go and get you some! Enjoy!



Thanks to our honorary HipHopMenZ, Tim...we got some more footage from the Albuquerque show. Don't judge if you hear us wildin!

Star is Born/All I Want is You


Before I'm Gone/It Won't Be Long


-Photo Chic

Rapsody-Sucker Freestyle

Get More: Sucker Free

Bring the feelin back! Rapsody freestyles at Rock the Bells in NYC! Love HER!!!

-Photo Chic

J. Cole Brings Out Kendrick Lamar in LA

Soooo...J. Cole decided to bring out Kendrick Lamar at his LA show for the Cole World: World Tour last night. These are two of my favorite emcees right now so to see them on stage together would have been amazing. Luckily, there is video courtesy of Janicella Moca. The two went on to perform Kendrick's HiiiPower which Cole produced as well as one of my favorite J Cole tracks, "Enchanted." Take a look at their performance:

Dang!!! I wish we could have made that trip...

-Mixtape Chic

Hol' up! Hol' up! Here's a closer, crisper view! :-)



-Photo Chic

YaYa Talks to Cole (Part 1)

J.Cole has my vote when it comes to my list as being one of my favorite emcees. Say what you want to say about him regardless if he's too much for you, or not enough. All I know is that one day in August when Dj Green Lantern put him on his show in 09', I was convinced.
Fast forward from our interview 2 years ago to last night in Arizona and we are approaching the debut album of the self proclaimed Gods Gift J Cole, who is here for the dreamers and doubters alike. Cole World: The Sideline Story has yet to hit my ears but I think with ill mixtapes in the books, features with HOV, world tours and more in just a few years its safe to say Tuesday is only a few days away.
Here is Part 1 of 3 of my interview with J. Cole, with a glimpse into his performance last night-the work he can do to a cupcake, and where he was during our first interview.


Personal bias? Too Much love? Tomato, Tomatoe, either you don't like an artist and its called hating or you love what they put out so much your kissing ass. Nobody is pleased anymore so make your own assessment on September 27th- hit the pre-order via iTunes or Amazon


Cole World.


-YaYa Martinez



When J. Cole comes to Arizona, you know YaYa Martinez is going to be all over it. Check out her interview with Mr. Cole World himself featuring some great clips from the show. Hip Hop ChicZ representing in the front row...cough...yup...peep!

-Photo Chic