JumpinJack AJ

I read this article the other day. I just figured i'd bring it over here 4 those who didn't wanna check the link. It just feels good 2 know they are doing their thing. I think i'm gonna have 2 make an ATCQ mixtape right now. ---------------------------------- A Tribe Called Quest: For Whom The Bells Toll May 8th, 2008 | Author: Andres Tardio« Prev | 1 | 2 | Next » View All Pages For many, A Tribe Called Quest embodies what Hip Hop is about. The crew came forward with a unique style, a movement with the Native Tongues, a message and a rhythm that the mainstream could not ignore. The collective has dropped classic or near classic albums, hits and their influence is still seen today through emcees and producers that grew up listening to The Tribe. With accolades upon accolades, they have been celebrated and hated. Now, they will be watched even more. For the collective, this is an opportunity to showcase their legacy and their skills in front of old fans, new fans and kids who have never heard an ATCQ album. They are headlining this year’s Rock the Bells as the tour heads out on its first global summer excursion, amplifying its own impact across the world. The Tribe, who will be joined on the bill by The Pharcyde, De La Soul and Nas, took some time to speak with us about the reunion, their latest solo projects, their legacy and the possibilities of a new group album. HipHopDX: It’s been awhile. What made you all decide, “We gotta get together again”? Ali: Honestly, I think any time that, looking at our history, our career or how long it’s been that we’ve been in the music business, how long it’s been that we haven’t been in…When you receive an invitation, you gotta look at where you are like, “Who am I to deny this?” It’s a blessing. Especially when it’s called Rock the Bells which in and of itself means a lot just as a quote. Then, looking at what these guys, Guerrilla Union are bringing with all the acts [click to read], how can we not be a part of this? DX: You talk about the name Rock the Bells. You hear the history with Rage Against the Machine, Public Enemy and then now, with you guys…How does it add fire or pressure up under you to perform even better? Phife: Wow! I wouldn’t say it adds pressure at all. But, we need to hit the gym. That’s it. [Laughs] Ali: It just reminds me of some of our early shows when we used to wear hooded robes. At that point in time, no one was doing what we was doing. I can't speak for these guys, but for me, it was a lot of nerves but it took a lot of balls to step out and do that and have confidence in what we knew we had. We always maintained that. Be it 1989 or be it 2009, I think that's our spirit. We love what we do and we want to make sure that the people out there know what it's about. It’s always been the same for us. DX: We’ll talk about 2009. Obviously, there’s the tendency to say, ‘Let’s look into the future.’ Currently, I know everyone just wants to kick back and enjoy the moment. But, looking into the future, there has to be some speculation, even inside of your minds, that there will be an album. Phife: We gotta take it day by day. Jarobi: But, there’s definitely speculation. We're not gonna sit here and say we're not thinking about it. Of course we're thinking about it! But everything has to be lined up in the proper way at the proper time. We can’t have A-to-Z and then a Y missing. DX: Is there anything you see missing, that you can see being fixed for it to happen? Ali: It's not anything tangible that we could physically pin point and say, "This is the element [missing for us to record another album]." It's a combination of a lot of different things. Q-Tip [click to read] is working on his solo album right now. He's been working on it for a minute. He's had several obstacles he's had to deal with with regards to the industry. That's what everyone is dealing with. It doesn’t matter if you’re the big star or the little star. So, he wants to see that happen and we want to make sure that it happens. Same with me and working on my album. We 'bout to start Phife on his. So, there’s a whole lotta other elements of life that exist as we try to co-exist with this mantra of A Tribe Called Quest that we put out there. DX: The Tribe is legendary. It’s iconic for some. But, now we have kids who have never heard it. They are now going to hear it without a doubt. You’re bringing a new generation to the fold. How does that feel? Phife: Fantastic! It makes me feel old, but it’s gonna be great because we toured in ’06. We had young kids then coming to our shows knowing every song word for word. Can’t forget, they have older brothers and sisters, aunts, uncles who grew up on us. They’re probably still wondering why "We Left Our Wallet in El Segundo," but they know everything else about us. So, now the kids know word for word, coming to our shows. That ain’t nothin’ but a blessing. Jarobi: The word I keep throwing out is "humbling." It puts your life in perspective. For me, to still be…I guess important after all these years is crazy! We didn’t start with any idea… Phife: We don’t really know how to be superstars, man. We was just doing what we loved to do, man. For people to walk up on us…I can’t do nothin’ but humbly accept it. Ali: As far as the element of kids who weren’t even born when we were doing our thing and now being old enough to get into concerts. For me, it’s proof. It’s proof that when you maintain a high level of integrity and care and love for the culture and for one another, it works. For all the people that made cracks on us like “Look at those funny kids making that funny music.” Twenty years later, it’s proof. Phife: I got three words: "Wow. Word? Damn!" DX: You got cats on the bill that love you guys or grew up on you guys. My question is, who do you see that makes you say, “Damn, I want to work with them. I respect them. That guys amazing.” Just talking about the up and comers. Ali: I like Murs because I think Murs is carrying the same kind of torch. He comes from the same roof we came from musically, just trying to make sure he puts something positive in it when you walk away from it. It makes you think. It’s not in a preachy way. Jay Electronica, the same way! He brings forward a spirit. He has crazy cadence, first of all. It’s ridiculous. His lyrics is the same thing. It makes me take a look at my life in comparison to what I see and how it should be. They kick it, not only how it’s supposed to be but also how it should be. You might not see it on a mainstream level but it exists. I’m happy to be on the same bill as those guys. They inspire me to go back in the studio. DX: So, it’s safe to say you’ll be peeking out of the curtains? Phife: Psh! Yeah! Out the curtain? I’ll be right there on the side! [Laughs]

RICH CRONIN - Impossible Billion Dollar Sound (2008)

I've been on an MC Hammer trip the past week. I know there are a handful of other Hammer fans here i figured i'd share this. For those that don't know, MC Hammer was working with Deathrow in 1996 after he got off Giant Records. He was good friends with 2Pac and Suge so he went 2 Deathrow 2 pick up the unpromoted pieces of his previous album (my favorite "V: Inside Out"). I never knew any of the songs from the album, titled "Too Tight" got leaked...but they did. And here is the trax i've found on YouTube. 2Pac and Big Daddy Kane are on the 1st track i listed. 2Pac wrote "Unconditional Love" (one of my favorite 2Pac songs) with MC Hammer in mind and Hammer actually recorded it himself, tweeking a few of the lyrics. The last link has 2Pac in the studio during one of the sessions for the album. For those that care, enjoy. Too Late, Playa w/ 2Pac + Big Daddy Kane http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WEsZjaMG7kk Free Intro (Interlude) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPYvfzVembw Unconditional Love http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JeLXkCEMz7s Get Up http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DyNhpsjQhw Playa Hater of The Week (Interlude) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwbNayuifAA Everybody Party Down http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7bJp8UUsag 2PAC Studio Session for MC Hammer's “Too Tight” album http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XoNgRZUdm2M

I didn't peep the track yet. Back in the late 90's Nas started 2 slip. In fact, i didn't really get back in2 him until Hip-Hop Is Dead. I can't say i've listened 2 that album in awhile, but i did like it alot. I still think the title of the album is stupid and annoying and if he's taking steps backwards, i can't say that i'm that surprised. I'll still give it an honest listen when it drops. I just hope he isn't gonna turn me off again like he did from the late 90's thru' the mid 2000's.

Even tho' i don't like Game, i watched this. He talks nice and has a good attitude in this...but i'll form a fresh opinion about him when i hear the music and let it speak for itself.

Allow me 2 randomly reply as well...the original version of "Girls Ain't Nothing But Trouble" is in the episode where Will and Carlton are chasing down a honey in the mall. I haven't read the first 4 pages of this post since they were new...excuse me if that waz already in there.

I like all the versions of "Brand New Funk" equally. The album version is classic...the live version is equally as classic...and the Extended Remix is the classic...just longer. The new version is pretty blah. It's got a classic beat with a less than classic emcee on it. Jeff's scratching is a plus but the song leaves me scratching my head. The idea of re-making a classic is risky enough, but when it's clearly not that good, why bother letting people hear it. Bottom line, it should have never been done without the 'Prince.

U forgetting an album? What about all the losers who ditched him on Born To Reign??

Why downgrade it tho'? Like Brakes said...

Yeah...classic Cube track.

It sucks. Peedi just isn't good. His voice is annoying. I've never heard any lyrics from him that impressed me. This is the weakest track Jeff has ever done. I don't know why he'd want 2 bastardize his own classic. The song should have never been done unless FP waz on it...probably the only one on it.

That waz awesome!! Ha ha...i loved it. Those kids got much more skill than any rapper i heard on Top 40 radio.

JILL SCOTT - Golden (Live) Live In Paris (2008)

I just got this album. It's only $7.99 this week at Best Buy. However, i just peeped the album online b4 opening it and i'm not feeling it 2 much. I like the experimental vibe 2 it, but i expected the straight Hip-Hop from the albums i own. I'm gonna listen 2 it online a few more times before i deside 2 open it or take it back.

Not the kinda video every other couple has out...ha ha. He directed "Touch My Body" after being slated 2 be in it. I waz impressed cuz it looks like someone who's been directing videos for years did it. I won't diss them as a couple tho.' Mariah is a down 2 earth free spirit who comes off much younger than she is. Nick Cannon actually has a smart business mind and is much more mature then how he put himself out there on Wildin' Out. Not all of his public relationships have gone smooth, but him and Mariah seem like they really want 2 be settled down. Yes, it is a bit weird, but i'm not gonna count them out like everyone else is. I mean, we know NOTHING about them personally. Why do u think Janet is with Jermaine Dupri. Cuz he's a down 2 earth guy who is a good person who can make her feel good compared 2 all of the idiot guys who drool over her and have complexes that they are with a superstar. When u are loved for u, it's more real than anyone is gonna realize.

Thanx! Great song (minus the random "ey"s) and a nice video.

When u worship stupid things, stupid things will happen 2 u.

HaPPy hAppY B-Day!!

DJ JAZZY JEFF + J-LIVE - Practice The Return of The Magnificent (2007)

Thanx everybody. It's my day off work...listening 2 The Return of The Magnificent and i'm looking forward 2 washing the car, getting out and enjoying this weather, then meeting up with friends. Thanx again everyone. And i apoligize 2 everyone for not dropping "Happy B-Day" replies in their birthday posts. I always read them but the craziness of life always has me saying "i'll reply later when i have more time...and i don't. So forgive me and know that i'm sending out B-day love each time i see them posted.

It is ONLY available on the 12" single from 1987. It waz never released on CD or on any album. U can usually find one on ebay every month or so. I remember bidding a good bit for mine but since then many of them have gone for cheaper. It just depends on how many JJ+FP/Hip-Hop fans are looking for it at the moment.

Wow, that sucks. 48 seconds of my life that i'll never get back.

With the success of Musiq Soulchild's new album, Def Soul has re-released his 1st 2 albums with a bonus disc features 7 rare/non-album tracks from their respective era. Trust me, it's worth buying these new versions if u are a big Musiq fan. Here's the run down... AIJUSWANASEING 1. Just Friends (Sunny) (Masters At Work 12" Mix) This is an 8 minute house remix of the modern classic. It was only released on the 12" promo single and on an import version of the single. If u are familiar with MAW, this is their typical style (which is a good thing) and the things that made the original song are wrapped up in this mix. Lovin' this. 2. Just Friends (Sunny) (Masters At Work Dub) This mix will probably only be appriciated by fans of house music whereas the other will please any Musiq fan. Like most House/Dance/Club Dubs, the main focus of this is the music with vocal samples laced and played with thru' out the mix. This was apparently only available on an import CD single. 3. Just Friends (Sunny) (Beat Box Mix) This has all of the original vocals with mostly Musiq's beatbox as the only background. Just a bit of keys support his beatbox. It says this mix waz only on the 12 vinyl single...but i swear i've seen this on the import CD single as well. 4. Just Friends (Sunny) (E-Smoove's Soul Revival) This is another house/dance mix of the song. It runs over 7 minutes and provides a vibe just a bit different from the MAW remix. It was also on the 12" vinyl single and an import CD single. Good stuff. 5. Love (Instrumental) This is the instrumental to his hit "Love"...the gospel song disguised as a typical love song. If u aren't a fan of instrumentals or don't like 2 sing along, u won't care much 4 this. But the A Touch of Jazz production is flawless on this one and keeps the attention of any fan of the music. This was never commercially released...only on the promo CD single released 2 radio stations. 6. Aimewitue This song was on the only an import version of the album. I'm pretty sure this is the song Tim told me about years ago, saying it waz one of the best songs he did for the album and he waz disappointed it was only on the import...ha ha. I really do like this song but think that compared 2 Just Friends, Love, Mary Go Round, Seventeen, the song fits, but isn't the best. After all, the whole album is amazing. It's good 2 finally have this track tho.' Eric Roberson and Odyssey did work on this track 2! Anyone who has The Magnificent knows who they are. 7. The Ingredients of Love w/ Angie Stone This song was on Angie Stone's 2001 album "Mahogany Soul." The mid-tempo soulful track was produced by A Touch of Jazz vets Ivan and Carvin. The song's topic focuses on the a couple who are each holding the weight of their relationship and putting labels on what they are doing 2 make it work. I passed up on this album and always wanted it (infact, i think someone is getting this Angie Stone album for my b-day), and finally hearing this song is great. Late 90's/Early 2000's ATOJ is simply amazing. Great song!! JUSLISEN 1. Dontchange (Remix) This song puts a bit of an edge on the original and features the legendary Ron Isley. The sound of this remix puts it in competition with the popular R-N-B songs of the time. The vocal approach 2 this remix is totally different from the original. Musiq and Ron Isley just sound good 2gether. This remix waz only available on the promo CD single. 2. Halfcrazy (Remix) This is an interesting uptempo remix of the albums 1st single. The vocals again are totally reworked, making it nearly a whole new song. This rare remix waz only on the CD promo and 12" single. The best remixes are the ones that bring the whole song 2 a whole new vibe and both this and the "Dontchange" remix do just that. The musical breakdown in the middle of the song is kinda weird but it only lasts a second. 3. Halfcrazy (Summer Madness Remix) This remix is closer 2 the original version but with a "Summer Madness" flip 2 it. This slower mid-tempo remix keeps the original vocals in tact which take me back 2 a good place mentally, while the new sound keeps me hooked. This remix waz only one promo CD singles and promo 12" singles. 4. Beautiful Contradiction w/ Beverly Knight This James Poyser produced song was on Beverly Knight's "Who I Am." I've never heard of her before, but this song is great and i'll be checking her out. This mid-tempo song sounds like something u'd find on Musiq's album. The topic has them playing the part of a couple in love talking about how their differences make their relationship work. Just good early 2000 soul music. 5. Break You Off w/ The Roots This is the hit most of u will remember from 2003. This is probably the last Roots song that i REALLY liked and Musiq waz a big part of that. It says this is the LP Version of the song, but i remember the version on the album being longer than this 5 minute version. The credits say this LP Version waz on the promo 12" single...so i'm pretty sure i'm right on this. This version is better cuz i remember being annoyed that the album version waz longer with a musical breakdown that i felt only cheapened the song. 6. Break You Off (A Capella) Take the a capella for what it is...ha ha. Sure, the lyrics are good for simple subject matter, but i doubt many people will be excited that this track is on here. Oh well, it's better 2 have the track than 2 have a shorter bonus CD. After all, the only other place u'll find this is on the 12" promo single. 7. Dontchange (Pound Boys Main Mix) This 12 minute house/club mix takes the song 2 a whole different place...the dancefloor. The original vocals are placed over this upbeat remix, only available in an longer form on the promo 12" single. In all, this Special Editions are dope. If u are a fan of Musiq, u will happy 2 own these. I can tell u right now that i'm about 2 burn a dope Musiq mix CD with all this stuff worked around some other rare and classic Musiq stuff. The original (1st) disc of each set is untouched from it's original form, as are the CD inserts. Fall in love with Musiq's best albums all over again in these new packages.

Finally..."Gravity Ain't Nothing But Trouble" is making a comeback!!

One man can make a difference....and that man's me! ha ha