Wednesday, November 11, 2009

'Get It Up' Ft. Nikki NTU from The Very Best's Remix Project


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Get It UP- Featuring Nikki NTU prod. by MeLo-X
DOWNLOAD IT HERE

This single is featured on the new project from The Very Best, produced by Melo-X. So much fun to make! Shouts to The Very Best, Melo-X, and Claude Dary for this one. The album will be released on iTunes soon so look out for it. My album as well as a project surrounding The Birth of Venus will be released on iTunes in the Spring as well. More to come, Thanx guys!

Bilal: 'Levels' At CMJ



The big homie did his thing! More new material on the way!

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Spread

ANATTITUDE MAGAZINE "HIP HOP IS..." ISSUE
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IT'S FINALLY HERE!
Features by KING TEXAS, Roxanne Shante, and my mentor Toni Blackman
Order yours HERE or pick up a copy @ McNally Books in SoHo
Love to Jee and the whole Anattitude FAM!

Anattitude Magazine Issue IV: Hip Hop Is...

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The new issue of Anattitude Magazine is almost here! The all-female Hip Hop magazine is back with their fourth issue featuring interviews, photos, and Hip Hop Is... quotes from Rokafella, Roxanna Shante, Casey, M.A.F.I.A., Toni Blackman, sistren King TEXAS, and Myself! First time being featured in print so I'm so excited. You can pre-order your copy HERE or head to McNally Books on Prince and get a bunch for you and your friends, October 19th. Please go out and support! To learn more about this and past issues visit Anattitude Magazine online.

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Death of AARP

New Brooklyn representing! I especially like how Overfab owns her steez. I LOVE IT! Shout out to www.mn-eminent.com for posting the video.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Monday, September 21, 2009

Madonna Thunderhawk

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By Tigga Calore Prod. by Chief Encore on FrenchLopezRecords

Thursday, September 17, 2009

A3C Festival in ATL

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We'll be hittin' the stage October 1st at The Five Spot. Shout outs to GFC and the whole A3C fam!

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Never Forget You

First caught The Noisettes at the Diesel:U:Concert at Webster Hall (also the location of a majority of their video) and wondered if I'd been hiding under a rock! Their sound manages to retain its freshness despite the retro overtone flooding their homeland and music scene. Lead vocalist/bass guitarist, Shingai Shoniwa reminds me of a new wave Whitney. Her charisma and style make this band a must see!

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Christ Faust of Good Day Good Night: Rock The Block

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Had a great time yesterday with the guys at the Rock The Block Fashion show featuring the lovely Raye 6. Thank you to Christ Faust, Good Day Good Night, and Rock The Block for having me. Also, shout outs to the guy who played Guitar Hero during my performance, it was awesome!

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Sista Soul

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Alexyss K. Tylor, you talk that real deal shit babey!

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Festivities

Had a busy couple of weeks filled with a lot events. The Diesel:U:Music folks put on a great show last week! Shout out to Atif and VANE for packing out the Rivington (it was locked down like a steel fortress), and all the fam for a great Saturday night. Here are a few photos.
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Also, love to Scheme of Old Money & the salient siren, Andreea of Rap.de.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

MeLo-X: Maxwell's BLACKsummers'night Instrumental Remix EP

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From GALAX:

MeLo-X Returns with another Instrumental EP inspired by a new modern day classic, Maxwell's BLACKsummers'night. Many producers pull from the past for there sampled records but in this project MeLo-X pulls from newly released Album's too create his own interpretations of these artist's work. His past Remix EP's for Raphael Saadiq and Amy Winehouse Gained alot of Respect in the producer world as well as the Blogosphere and has even caught the attention of Mark Ronson. With this EP, he ventures in to Spacey time Travel as he chops up Maxwell's new Album too create this head nodding rhythm driven project. This is a new type of project for producers to begin creating. Actually taking a brand new album and Sampling it to create new classic Electronic, HipHop and Soul Music. This is the First Single called "The Highest" Which is Sampled from Maxwell's Bad Habits.

The EP drops Officially on Tuesday July 28th with OkayPlayer For more info on MeLo-X visit
MeLo-X.tv
Myspace.com/MeLoXtra
Twitter.com/MeLoXtra
Imeem.com/BKMeLo

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Dear Moleskin

The good sir, Electronica visited India this past fall (coincidentally the same time as I) and shot some footage he just released for Dear Moleskin. Some fam have heard new material and say his new project is bananas! Here is a fresh cut!

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

MeLo-X: Genesis

He's like a Rastafarian Care Bear! :)
visit Melo-x.tv

And download "The Highest" off Melo's new instrumental EP, inspired by Maxwell's, BLACKsummer'snight. Also, check okayplayer for this and more exclusive features.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

GOOD Music

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Hosted by lovely Heather of Herfection

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

C'est Noir X King Texas Present 'Krystal Krunk'


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DJ Bonnie Danger and DJ Mills puttin' it down all night! With Hosts Nikki NTU, Stevie Lee, Bee & Shiv in the spot!
FREE Wednesday, @ Happy Ending
Doors Open 10pm
Broome Street btw Forsyth & Eldridge
SHOUTS TO TEXAS!

Sunday, July 5, 2009

ESTILO HIP HOP

Filmmaker, activist, and DJ, Laylo's new film is breathtaking! Both activists and artists, Loira (a.k.a DJ Laylo) and Eli Efi have worked together to open up minds and spread global awareness about issues in South America. Loira's new documentary ESTILO HIP HOP, which premiered on PBS last weeks, profile three artists (including Eli Efi, himself) who view Hip Hop as a tool for social change. Peep the synopsis and the trailer below. 
Estilo Hip Hop is a feature length documentary that chronicles the lives of three hip hop enthusiasts from Brazil, Chile, and Cuba who firmly believe that hip hop can change the world. As we delve into the lives of Eli Efi, Guerrillero Okulto, and Magia, we learn of three inspirational leaders responsible for mobilizing young people to become politically active. However, the personal issues affecting the three protagonists prove to be as overwhelming as the challenges posed by their political work. As the stakes assume a greater risk, Eli Efi, Guerrillero, and Magia make life-altering decisions that ultimately impact the course of their lives and that of the hip hop movement.
Also, be sure to check the ESTILO HIP HOP site for more info on how to view the full film.

Friday, July 3, 2009

UMSINDO

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DOWNLOAD: George Ann Muldrow's E.S.P

UMSINDO dropping July 14th! Shout outs to FRESH SELECTS for this exclusive cut. To see the full feature visit freshselects.net for this, and more fantastic features.

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Invincible

He had a way of waking the dead. The earth would rumbled and people would scream from the intensity. He was gorgeous! I remember watching the "Beat It" video at five years old, wishing he was my boyfriend. He was such a sensitive and complex person, who showed us how one could affect billions, and his spirit will continue to dance in our hearts. I wanted to throw up some of my most favorite pieces of video from Moonwalker as well as some insightful interview footage. Moonwalker was my whole childhood! Some of the highlights for me were moments like when my boo "Jimmy Bean" from Polly played the kid version of Michael in the remake of the Bad video or the end when Mike turns into that iron, Negro Autobot and blows Joe Pesci away with his supersonic adlibs. But one of the coldest scenes was when Mike turns into that bunny, Spike, and has a dance off with him in the middle of the desert. Off stage, he had an innocence and joy about him. His voice was very childlike but his thoughts and discipline displayed just how enlightened he truly was. I could go on... but I say all this to show how much I feel for Michael and the legacy he has left behind. Mike revolutionized the game and evolved our understanding and appreciation for the art form. He was truly, Magic.





Timeless, Magical, and Everlasting. Where ever your soul rests, may you rest in eternal peace.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

Attorney Street Press Interview: Part 2

The beautiful Janine Simon did an interview with me for Attorney Street and I loved her questions so much I wanted to throw some extra questions up too. Peep this question featured on the Attorney Street site along with these exclusive questions for mine!
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Attorney Street Press: Nikki NTU

AS: Are you Haitian? As I can see you and your work is influenced by the Haitian voodou spirit of Ezili Dantò. The first track is an ode to her and you have a tattoo of her veve (sacred symbol) on your chest.

No, I am not Haitian. But I would say that I have a deep connection to “circles”, chanting, and mysticism. I got the tattoo a full year before I even knew who Ezili was. I researched Mary, Mother of Jesus and came across the famous image of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. I thought the symbolism was so “me” that I got the piece shortly after. A year later, I was on the phone with my boy (MEGA) and he told me I had a bluish light about me, that reminded him of his mom whom voodou priestesses said, had an aura of Ezili. I quickly researched Ezili and up pops her symbol; my tat. It was a chilling sign.

Part 2

AS: Your EP artfully executes your history of dreams, now, what is the future of your dreams?

The future would be performing, traveling, activism and organizing, and doing the album process all over again. We’ve been done with the EP for a while and my heart and mind has slightly wondered off into the next sound. But for now, I’d like to stay in the present for a moment and enjoy it.

AS: Decorated author Edwidge Danticat has stated that writing for her is a ritual of sorts. When she writes she lights candles and she writes best at night when she feels the spirits of her characters roam freely. With that being said, what are some of your writing rituals?

My writing tendencies are pretty sporadic. I’d say I need a clear space to silence my thoughts enough to write them down. And since I’m all over the place in the house I find myself sitting outside more and writing on nice days. Nature is a real help, the breeze swirling around as you try to grab an idea out of the sky, the stillness… are all conducive to my process. At night though, I like to leave my book by me. At times I’d wake up in the middle of the night with no real understanding of what I’m doing and write things I have no knowledge of. It became such a routine I’d write in my head and wake up with a whole text to research and write about.

AS: Are you often caught gazing at the Moon? (Most women I know are, lol)

I’d say the moon captivates me, but I had a habit of starring at the sun for a while. The sun amazes me. I can’t believe that I can feel the direct affects of something so far away… like hands reaching out to me. The moon is beautiful the way it illuminates in the dark, round, and dew like, but I know where the light comes from.

AS: Looking back on the young girl that you once were. What words would you have for her?

“Worry less!” I always worried about the future and in the end the worrying wasn’t what got me closer to my goals. In fact it could have jeopardized some of them. Dealing with stress when you are SO passionate about things is a constant lesson.

AS: Also, Looking forward to the woman you will become in the distant future, what words would you extend to her?

“Don’t work too hard!” Ha! Just wanna say that to myself now ‘cause I’m bound to forget it later.

AS: If you were able to be apart of any past era, generation or movement what would it be? (Ex: Harlem Renaissance, Civil Rights etc.)

I’d have to say I would have liked to be a part of the abolitionists, pre-emancipation. Tubman was a baaaaad bitch! The famous story of her putting the shot gun to anyone who wanted to go back…man! She was that down!

AS: In knowing that with the power of words your voice can be used as a weapon, what weapon would you use to represent your voice?

I think a fist would represent my voice the best. Not as in, “fight the power” but because sometimes I get so mad I wanna punch somebody in the face, lol!

AS: How does love affect your life and work? Self-love, love of family and friends etc. How does this phenomenon paint the melodies of your music?

It’s a huge part of why I make the kind of music I make. I feel like love is a great desire of us all. My music is an outlet for me when my pride and ego get in the way. There I can admit anything because music is an extension of that love.

AS: Just like works of art, children are created and molded but also malleable. And like art, children are not only created for artists to keep but to present to the world. What are your beliefs of the role that arts have on the development of young people?

I feel every child is an artist because of their natural ability to express so freely. When children are given different disciplines by which they can express their feelings they grow and become masters of not only that craft but of themselves. To be equipped with that kind of power and ability is freeing. As a teaching artist I have a deep commitment to assisting young artists in their path towards self-mastery.

AS: What do you learn most from teaching/mentoring/work-shopping young people? What techniques do you find most effective?

I’ve learned that there are many ways to see one thing. They have such fresh eyes. At times they can see things in such a light it makes you see in a completely different way. Even when they are being crass they can make it so plain.

AS: Across the span of your educational experience, what do you think teachers did best? What could they have improved on?

Wow, the greatest teachers I’ve been blessed to learn from have put their personality and passion into their lessons. They weren’t just “teachers”; they showed they were humans by expressing themselves. Kids connect to that. I think teachers who connect with the kids will always have more of a positive affect on them than the teachers who act like it means nothing to them.

visit Attorneyst.com for the full interview and more.
Add Old Money on Twitter

Monday, June 22, 2009

VONY SPEAKS! Youth Media/Art Conference and Benefit JUNE 27TH @92Y Tribeca

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Voices of New York's mission is to provide mentors and media/arts programs that offer creative expression outlets to build positive critical thinking and confidence for the youth within underserved communities, as well as offer services and educational resources to parents and educators looking to improve their communication and interactions with the youth.Voices of New York's mission is to provide mentors and media/arts programs that offer creative expression outlets to build positive critical thinking and confidence for the youth within underserved communities, as well as offer services and educational resources to parents and educators looking to improve their communication and interactions with the youth.
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The Dare to Dream Project and Voices of New York (VONY) present the 1st Annual Voices of New York Speak! Youth Media/Arts Conference and Benefit, on Saturday, June 27th, 2009 at the 92Y Tribeca. The day event, the first conference of its kind in New York City, will gather educators and alert, parents, creative professionals and experts, to the growing potential of media and creative arts in the classroom and the community. A schedule of panels, workshops, film screenings, art exhibitions and a keynote speaker will engage participants in dialog about the best practices and future possibilities of an interconnected classroom and community. These conversations will serve educators actively looking to integrate new technologies such as YouTube and social networking into their classrooms and offer communities after school programs and workshops that increase social communication and influence youth empowerment. Our evening program/benefit concert hosted by, Laura Dee will feature special performances by cutting edge artist 88-keys, soul singer Jesse Boykins III, songstress Honey Larochelle and renowned music recording artist BILAL.
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Conference 2pm-7pm: FREE (w/ suggested donation)
Benefit Concert starts @ 8pm:($22 advance, $25 at door)

More info & tix go to: www.vonyspeak-conference.org

http://www.myspace.com/bilaloliver
http://www.myspace.com/88keys
http://www.myspace.com/jesseboykinsiii
http://www.myspace.com/honeybsmusic
http://www.myspace.com/lauradee1213

* All proceeds will benefit providing the youth with workshops and programs that will offer creative expression outlets using multimedia and creative arts. These tools will be an opportunity for the youth to become empowered and develop creative thinking skills as well as build confidence and focus!*

Thursday, June 18, 2009

MeLo-X: Cargo London Show, Video Flyer

London, get ready!

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Happy Belated King: Tupac

I been slackin' on my posts but I HAD to throw this joint up. Pac was a major revolutionary force and we young ones study his teachings to the fullest. He was truly our King and our struggles, personified.

Monday, June 15, 2009

TRACE: Black Girls Rule! 2009

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It's that time again ladies! The new Black Girls Rule Issue featuring Arlenis Sosa will be available for purchase and download early July! To download the latest issue and get your daily taste of Trace, visit their blog HERE. Shout outs to the lovely Ms. Sigourney!

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

Voices of New York Speak! Youth/Media & Arts Conference and Benefit

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The Conference: I'll be in the spot, leading a workshop and/or speaking as a panelist. Expect great art, great panels, programs, speakers, and more!
June 27th, at the 92nd Y Tribeca
200 Hudson Street
2-7PM
FREE w/ $20 suggested donation
The Benefit Concert: I'm calling all teaching artists and community oriented artists to come and show your support. Expect an amazing line-up; Honey LaRochelle, Jesse Boykins III, 88 Keys, and Bilal. Special guest DJ spinning all night for a great cause!
After the Conference,
Doors open @ 7PM
Performance starts @ 8PM
$22 Advanced/$25 at the Door
Hosted by Laura Dee