Stop dem Merda Music!?

Stop Murder Music Campaign
AMW !.e.: Andrea M. White
June 15, 2007

Though we have all sang and partied to many reggae lyrics over the years, I don’t believe we have maintained a true understanding of what some of the widely popular songs were really stating and the affect they would carry in years to come. Songs like Buju’s “Boom Bye Bye - rude boy nah promote no nasty man, dem ah fi dead" and Beenie’s, "Bad Man Chi Chi Man," are just a few tunes that ignited any party each time they would boom through the speakers. To be honest I’m bobbin my head just thinking about the songs right now. Unfortunately, we have failed to address the long-term consequences these songs have held throughout the years and how these lyrics are currently putting the livelihood of artists such as Buju Banton at risk today.

There has been a Stop Murder Music campaign also called The Reggae Compassionate Act launched by gay-activists, the campaign’s purpose is to "respect and uphold the rights of all individuals to live without violence due to their religion, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity or gender.” Beenie Man and Sizzla are the only two artists so far that have signed-on for the campaign so far which invites all people to listen to their music without the fear of violence. This is probably a good move for Beenie who has already had some of his engagements cancelled because of the lyrical content in a few of his songs. However, a number of other reggae acts have not signed up for the campaign, including Elephant Man, TOK, Bounty Killa, Vybz Kartel, and Buju Banton.

Speaking of Buju, he has experienced some heavy backlash while on tour promoting his album “Too Bad” – revered as one of the best albums of his career. His appearances in Oakland and San Francisco were cancelled after gay protestors urged concert goers not to support the artist. The criticism is due to the highly popular song “Boom Bye Bye” which placed the artist on the map.

Even after an agreement had been brokered by OutRage – a British gay activist organization and the Jamaican Government – Buju is not feeling the fact that he is being censored. The agreement states that several artists, including Buju, would agree not to perform songs with homophobic content. However at Miami’s Reggae Festival earlier last year, Banton performed a bit of "Boom Bye Bye," unfortunately for him the 45-second video was posted on YouTube which continued to outrage the gay community.

Journalist Eric Arnold said it best, “the album "Too Bad" has no crossover appeal. There are no high-profile collaborations with American rappers or R&B stars, no hip-hop remixes -- and, it should be noted, no misogynistic or anti-gay lyrics.” So give my boy Buju some credit; although he is stubborn he has grown as an artist (somewhat).

Though I may not agree or relate to certain lifestyles or preferences, there is something to be said for what these activists are trying to do within the music industry. They are demanding respect and making plenty of noise doing so. I’m sitting here trying to figure out why the black community hasn’t started our own Stop Murder Music campaign? After all of the songs we’ve sung celebrating violence and disrespect in our own music, where are our community demands and our boycotts of concert venues and radio stations? Oh well, I guess we’ll just continue bobbin our heads until another Imus comes and ruffles our feathers.

Source: Eurweb.com

First Black Formula 1 Winner Lewis Hamilton

First Black Formula 1 Winner Lewis Hamilton
AMW !.e. Talent: Andrea M. White
June 15, 2007

Yes we need to know this, not only because it’s important but this is a billion dollar industry that not enough African-Americans have their hands in. Okay, no I don’t watch NASCAR or Formula One racing, but I always find it fascinating when I hear the President of Operations for Dale Earnhardt Inc., African American Max Siegl promoting NASCAR, or when I hear that a 22-year-old rookie, Lewis Hamilton is the first Black driver in history to win a Formula One (Grand Prix) victory at the Canadian Grand Prix.

F1 racing is the highest class of racing defined by the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA), racing’s governing body. There are a number of races held throughout the world from Bahrain to Malaysia, which are called Grand Prixs and all winners are brought together to compete in the World Championship – basically this is the Super Bowl of racing.

Hamilton has had a long career with the Mercedes Corporation and won the F1 race in his Mercedes McLaren. Norbert Haug, Vice President, Mercedes-Benz Motorsport commented how "Lewis is a gifted driver who proved his talent with two consecutive title wins - 2005 in the Formula 3 Euro Series in a Dallara Mercedes and this year in the GP2 Series. McLaren and Mercedes-Benz have supported Lewis already for nine years. He was half as tall as he is today when he started in karting.”

Sources stated that after Hamilton crossed the finish line, he jumped out of his car racing toward his crew and hugging everyone in site, the 22 year-old simply stated, "I'm just having a fantastic day. This is history." For more info on African American racing heroes, check out http://www.nascar.com/2005/kyn/02/14/bhm.2/.

Thank Heaven for the Reverend!

Thank Heaven for the Reverend!
AMW !.e. Talent: Dj Single Handed
June 16, 2007

Positivity being promoted over the airwaves owned by big corporations is not something you see very often. On the surface, the hi-jinks and hilarity are the main highlights of the primetime MTV reality series Run’s House, starring Joseph “Reverend Run” Simmons of the pioneering rap group Run DMC and his family. However, you can’t help but notice Run’s qualities as a doting spouse to his wife Justine and father figure to his five children. Add in his words of wisdom that conclude every show, and you have an extremely positive role model who’s footsteps the younger generation can follow.

Allhiphop.com recently reported that Run signed a million dollar book deal with Gotham Books and will release a new book about family issues. Topics such as parenting tips and methods of maintaining a close-knit family will be featured in Run’s latest work. The release of the book will be accompanied by a promotional tour as Run and Justine spread their wisdom to the masses.

The potential of this book could be huge. I’m not even talking from a business or sales stand-point; I’m speaking more from the social and “good for humankind” side of things.

Reverend Run, the epitome of old-school rapper, is just as relevant to the youth of today as any of these new-jack rappers with chart-topping hits. There’s a highly likely chance that kids will pay attention to what he has to say. If his message is well-received, perhaps the concept of family can retain its conduciveness to health, growth, and prosperity.

For every child that somehow falls victim to the ills of the streets and all of its various underlying causes, we often ask: “where are the parents?” Where are the parents to provide that child with a sense of family that they now seek in a street gang? Where are the parents to teach alternative solutions to violence? Where are the parents to instill a sense of self-worth in their children so that they can strive for the best and don’t feel as though they have nothing to lose?

Perhaps I’m being overly optimistic with the results I expect. However, I’m completely up in arms for anything that promotes a positive message as opposed to glamorizing and encouraging nonsense. In the celebrity-obsessed culture which has engulfed the United States of America, I can only hope that we become fixated on the lessons that Run has to teach. We probably already know or have at least heard of most of what Run has to say. I just hope we take notice.

Canibus is Back?

Canibus is Back and Ready to Rhyme…’Til the Meter Says 9-9-9-9
AMW i.e. Talent: DJ single Handed]
June 15, 2007

The man who was supposed to be hip-hop’s lyrical savior and flew off the radar just as quickly as he arrived is back again with another offering. Canibus’ new album, For Whom the Beat Tolls, has been released through 101 Distribution and his own imprint, Mic Club Music.

According to Hiphoppress.com, guest appearances include Vinnie Paz from Jedi Mind-Tricks, Wu-Tang brethren GZA and Killah Priest, and former EPMD-led Hit Squad member K-Solo. Production duties will be held by Scram Jones, J. Wells, Moss, Zinn Deadly and the Capital Gang Movement.

I am willing to give this album a shot. That’s something I haven’t done since his first album was released.

Way back when I was an 18-year-old obsessive advocate of all things hip-hop, I was looking forward to the album to end all albums. Canibus had showed his extreme lyrical dexterity on several other artists’ offerings, such as “Making a Name for Ourselves” by Common; “Desperadoes” by The Firm; “Beasts from the East” by A+, Mr. Cheeks, and Redman; and “4, 3, 2, 1” by LL Cool J featuring everyone and their grandmother. Not to mention the fact that Canibus had a few songs of his own, such as “How We Roll” and “Second Round Knockout” A.K.A. “Screw LL Cool J.”

The album dropped, and it was plagued with two large problems. Wyclef’s production fit Canibus’ rhymes as well as my shoes would fit Shaq (I’m a size nine-and-a-half). Some of the concepts and lyrics behind the songs were, for lack of two better words, out there. While I found it quite creative when Canibus rhymed from the point of view of a sperm getting ready to fertilize an egg, that sentiment wasn’t shared by many of my peers. Mathematical and extra-terrestrial musings littered the album and turned it into a snooze-fest for many.

The title of the new album’s first single, “Secret of the Cosmonauts,” likely proves that Canibus hasn’t changed a bit.

I will gladly give it a listen. Due to my disappointment in his initial release, I never listened to much of his subsequent material. What I did hear wasn’t as thrilling as when he first came on the scene. I give him credit for not giving up despite minimal mainstream success. Perhaps this is what I need simply due to the fact that there isn’t much else out there right now. I need something to hold onto. To believe in. Or at least listen to without cringing.

I hope Canibus is back to his old form of being an “animal with a mechanical mandible, ready to damage you, spittin’ understandable slang at you!”

Nickelodeon Hero keeps making strong moves

Cannon Takes Home Cannes Film Festival Honor
AMW i.e. Talent: Andrea M. White
June 1, 2007


It seems as if our little Nickelodeon Hero keeps making strong moves throughout the industry. One of the four events of the Cannes Film Festival, STUDIO Magazine/Chopard Revelation Awards, presented Cannon with the highly recognizable and prestigious "Breakthrough Actor of the Year Award" for his groundbreaking work in the critically acclaimed film "BOBBY," directed by Emilio Estevez. Nick Cannon has made history as the first African-American actor to receive this honor.

Jude Law presented the award to Cannon who will be sharing his impressive honor with James McAvoy (The Last King of Scottland.) Cannon in his speech stated,

"I am humbled and grateful to have received such a coveted award by STUDIO Magazine and Chopard at this prestigious event at the Cannes Film Festival" said Cannon. "It was a great privilege to have been a part of the amazing ensemble cast of "BOBBY" and now, to be recognized amongst such tremendous talents as Evan Rachel and James is truly an honor."

For those who may need a little schooling, the Cannes Film Festival receives over 30,000 actors, directors, producers, etc. throughout the film industry along with over 4000 journalist, making it the largest and most acclaimed film festival worldwide. The festival is an annual event held in Cannes, France. What makes this affair such a big deal is that it not only evokes the honor and pride of being nominated, but it also creates a wide-spread sense of prestige throughout the world for all recognized with a Cannes honor.

Cannon, professional comedian, youngest executive producer of his own Nickelodeon show, film star, oh yeah – of course he’s a rapper too, who has also signed the largest production deal in MTV history – this guy is like stealth, it seems like he came out of nowhere and he continues to recreate himself with each step. For all those who ever thought this guy was corny, just watch his resume and take notes.

Lyrics as Evidence in a Courtroom?

Lyrics as Evidence in a Courtroom?
June 1, 2007
AMW i.e. Talent: DJ single Handed

Earlier this month, Allhiphop.com reported on a multi-million dollar civil lawsuit filed against “This is Why I’m Hot” rapper Mims. A young woman named Marquita Blair filed suit when Mims failed to show up for a scheduled concert after receiving a $2,500 down payment from her to go towards his appearance that night. Blair cites his misogynistic attitude towards women as the reason for his absence, accusing him of a “pattern of conduct involving the belittlement and degradation of females as 'b***hes and hoe's." Mims’ lyrics are quoted in the lawsuit as well.

As a famous line in many hip-hop songs goes: HOLD UP, wait a minute!

I seriously hope Ms. Blair has more evidence to back up her accusation than his song lyrics. Did they have face-to-face or phone contact when Mims belittled her? Does she have witnesses to back up her claim? Is there any other reason at all to believe that he snubbed her because he looks down on women?

Are any of Mims’ degrading lyrics even admissible as evidence in a court of law?

Lyrics have been on trial before with little to no success. Tupac’s lyrics incited a teenage boy to kill a Texas police officer. West Coast rapper C-Bo was arrested for violating his probation by releasing his album “Til My Casket Drops.” The lyrical content was said to be in violation of part of his parole, which stipulated that he may not promote or encourage violence in any manner. Even beyond the hip-hop scope, lyrics from a song by heavy metal band Judas Priest were said to have caused the suicides of two young men. The whole defense was built around a perceived subliminal message in the song which urged listeners to “do it,” meaning to pull the trigger.

The charges were dropped in all three cases due to lack of merit and first amendment protection.

The aforementioned cases dealt with extremely serious issues, two of which had grave consequences. Using lyrics to prove misconduct due to misogyny is frivolous and shows more than just a bit of greed. This woman wants $7.5 million? I could understand if she wanted to recoup the expenses that it took to put together the concert, which I doubt cost nearly that much. Charging Mims with not fulfilling his part of the contract has enough merit by itself.

I’m guessing the other $7,450,000 is for “punitive damages,” “pain and suffering,” and any other terms synonymous with “extra stuff to tack on to the lawsuit that I learned while watching the ‘People’s Court.’”

If Ms. Blair does truly have a case with enough supporting evidence, then I stand corrected and wish her luck. If she’s just extra salty about Mims missing a concert date, then I urge her to not let vindictiveness cloud her better judgment. As a DJ, I’ve opened up for other DJ’s and artists who have not shown up to the gig. Wait a minute, I guess that means I didn’t actually open up for them, did I? The point is, it happens. Deal with it and go for what you’re entitled to and not a penny more.

Then again, I must admit that this young lady is doing something I’ve wanted to do for a while now: suing Mims over his lyrics. I’ve wanted to sue that guy for lack of evidence to prove why he’s actually hot. The fact that I ain’t cuz I’m not just isn’t good enough for me.

Bush Officially Recognizes Black Music Month

George B Officially Recognizes Black Music Month
AMW !.e. Talent: Andrea M. White
June 1, 2007

We have breaking news...This just in (haven’t you always wanted to say that), President George W. Bush has just released a proclamation announcing that the month of June will now and forever more be recognized and acknowledged by the country as Black Music Month.

Yes, I know what you are thinking, all the BET commercials, and all the radio promos??? Yes we have been recognizing June as Black Music Month for at least the last five years. Well today you can put a stamp on it and make it official, because today marks the federally recognized first day of Black Music Month.

For those of you who may need to write a term paper on the subject, or perhaps you make an appearance on Jeopardy, here is the official proclamation from GDub:

During Black Music Month, we recognize the outstanding contributions that African-American singers, composers, and musicians have made to our country, and we express our appreciation for the extraordinary music that has enriched our Nation.
The music of African-American musicians has helped shape our national character and become an important part of our musical heritage. Often born out of great pain and strong faith, that music has helped African Americans endure tremendous suffering and overcome injustice with courage, faith, and hope. By speaking to the human experience and expressing heartfelt emotion, African-American artists have inspired people across the generations in America and around the world with their vision and creativity.
This month is an opportunity to honor the men and women who have created some of the best music America has ever produced. Great musical talents such as Ray Charles, Louis Armstrong, Mahalia Jackson, Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, and James Brown have enriched our culture with innovative talent and artistic legacies that continue to influence musicians today. We remember so many wonderful artists and celebrate the achievements of black musicians whose work reflects the diversity of our citizens and lifts the human spirit.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim June 2007 as Black Music Month. I encourage all Americans to learn more about the history of black music and to enjoy the great contributions of African-American musicians.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.

GEORGE W. BUSH

Man, if he had only read that proclamation with UGK/Outkast’s “International Players Anthem” playing in the background, it would have made it a lot more meaningful. Oh Well, Happy Black Music Month to everyone!