Wednesday, January 6, 2010

Song Of The Day (1/2)


"Karma" By Lloyd Banks feat. Avant

Back when the Unit was blowing up off of 50's success, Banks became the smoothest of the crew. With his timely punchlines, yet calm flow, the second in line, dropped his The Hunger For More with great success. This R&B number with Avant was one of his singles that showed the softer side of the rapper. Banks shows his affection to that special someone and speaks of how he would take care of her.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nraQqhQqRx4

Song Of The Day (1/1)


"Livin It Up" By Ja Rule feat. Case

Sure his career has been shot down by 50, after their highly publicized beef, but that can't deny Rule's past success. Off of Pain Is Love, Rule had the hit club banger with "Livin It Up". Sampling Stevie Wonder's "Do I Do", the Irv Gotti produced hit was a summer jam that worked in clubs and showing Rule as a sex symbol. With his rumbly gravel bass vocals and Case's light spirited hook, this was one of his biggest singles. Hopefully he'll return to achieve success, but being out of public eye and suffering in label drama, it'll be awhile before we see him again.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXDC8_4N8m4

Song Of The Day (12/31)


"On My Block" By Scarface

Houston veteran Scarface has always held down his town since the days of the Geto Boys. This piano looped beat became one of Face's biggest singles. Describing the various events on his block, the song came off The Fix, a big album when it was released. Releasing his final hip hop album in 2008 with Emeritus, Scarface will always be recognized as one of the top rappers in the game.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Odq2Mvvw6XA

Single Of The Day (12/30)


"Sister" By Rhymefest

One of Chicago's up and comers, after Kanye's success. Within his region, he was known for his freestyling skills that he showed through battling. His mix of humor and serious topics make him an intriguing emcee. On this song, No I.D.'s jazz lounge bassline massages the ears, while Mike Payne smoothens things out. Rhymefest tells the story of a girl he tries to talk slick to, however learns the deeper struggles of a woman. Its a true song that has both solid production and shows introspection from Fest.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D66oa1yJK4U

Song Of The Day (12/29)


"Don't Give Me No Bammer" By RBL Posse

Mainly a West Coast known group, RBL Posse was yet another talented group that ended tragically. RBL was short for Ruthless By Law, with its members, Black, Hittman and Mr. Cee. Both Mr. Cee and Hittman would eventually be murdered following their debut, A Lesson To Be Learned (often considered a classic). Their unifying weed anthem, "Don't Give Me No Bammer" was an important single for the Bay, not only because of its sound, but bringing the neighboring hoods of San Francisco together. RBL Posse will always be remembered for their classic album and a staple of San Francisco's rap scene.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QiS6d87jY9k

Song Of The Day (12/28)


"Ghetto" By Akon

One of Hip Hop and R&B's best singers with melody. Akon has proven himself time and time again, with numerous hit singles. Often people forget the ghetto stricken african on his debut, Trouble. From his jail slamming single, "Locked Up" to this heartfelt ode to the "Ghetto". Mournful chorus of gun shots, kids to feed, drugs being sold and people bleeding. This single was a reality check for many and showcased Akon's struggle to the fame.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hg31NpBlxH8

Song Of The Day (12/27)



"Notorious Thugs" By The Notorious B.I.G. feat. Bone Thugs N Harmony

Classic number from Biggie and Bone, the bassline fluidly rides with harmonizing by Bone. Biggie's renown flow oozes well over the beat, while Bizzy Bone's sporadic flow is unique. Never released as a single for its dark sound and lyrics, P. Diddy did his thing with the production. Memorable song for Biggie and Bone, a combination of greatness.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p18uNMfwp34