Simple Plan x Talib Kweli New Years Show.

I swear I would never have expected both of those artists to perform at the same show. I didnt even know Talib was gonna be there, so he was a nice surprise. I was just gonna go to see Simple Plan and front like I knew the words to their songs. In additon to Simple Plan and Talib Kweli, some next cat from Cali performed. You could not pay me to remember his name, he sucked so thats probably why I can't. But any who cats at rock concerts are energetic than a mug. I even experienced my first moshpit, shit was pure madness. T lost an earring, I almost lost my shoe, and my poor Sidekick. Overall I had a blast, even though we had to act like it was a New Years show (its airing on MTV and YouTube on Jan 1st) throwin' confetti, and rockin those ridiculous HAPPY NEW YEARS hats (which I wore all the way home). Big Ups to Mike over at MTV for hookin us up with the tickets, he's cool as shit.

P.S. Pics are in order of appearance.
P.S.S. I forgot to charge the digi cam so the shit died on me when Simple Plan came on, so I snapped some on the shitty SK camera.


That Rapper Cat Whose Name I Can't Remember.





Talib Kweli.






Simple Plan.







Spread love its the BROOKLYN way.

Sais the OverAchiever.

Just when you thought it was safe, he's back. Sais that is, and he has just dropped his new mixtape OverAchiever. He adds his own flow to some well known beats to make for a one-of-a-kind sound. I'm sure you dedicated Sais fans will most definitely enjoy it. Scroll down to find out more about his randomness.

Why did you title it OverAchiever?

Oh, I named it the OverAchiever because I feel with how the rap game is right now, people aren't trying their best. They are taking the lyricism aspect of hip hop very lightly. I feel that the fans don't really expect much as far as lyrics go either. If you listen to the OA I guarantee that some metaphors won't be picked up the first time so in that essence, I am doing way more than needed to get by in this current hip hop culture.


What made you pick that picture for the cover of the mixtape?

I'm a big Twilight Zone head. This a pretty long story, but here it goes. You might've seen the tracklisting of the OA and seen that it was dedicated to Jamie Tennyson. The person on the cover is Jamie Tennyson. He was a chatterbox that liked to hear the sound of his own voice, so much that a rich man bet him that he couldn't stay silent for a year for a sum of money because he was so aggravated by his talkative nature. After he completed the year effortlessly , the person he made a bet with confessed to everyone that he was indeed broke and he embarrassed himself and lost respect. The twist in the story is that Jamie Tennyson cut out his vocal chords to win the bet. I feel that is an overachieving attitude. Going way past necessary.


Why do you call yourself the Random MC?

I don't call myself the Random MC. Actually that song is about my ex girl you could hear her at the start of the mixtape version of Random MC. She used to spit random rhymes to me jokingly and used to be like "I'm the Random MC" So it was an inside thing. There's actually a random MC 2, but i didnt want to overkill the overachiever with sentimental tracks lol.


How did you figure out which beats to use for the mixtape?

That's very random. If I hear something that seems like it could fit me i just pick it up. People told me i had a good beat selection so I guess I'm doing alright in that sense. I like beats with a lot of instrumentation and if it has some sort of piano I'm usually on it. I may get on this piano beat that my good friend James Watts who is also featured on the tape showed me the other day. This was just a warmup big things to come!


How did the collaboration with Arcieri Keness come about?

You know he actually made that some time ago as a suprise, and i always dug his style and right before I uploaded it , i told him hey you still got that OverAchiever track? I want to use it, and he was all for it.


You have a song called Black Belgian. I don't know many Black Belgian rappers. Well I don't know any at all actually. Do you think your paving the way for black belgian rappers?

Ha, I'm actually Haitian, but i was born in Belgium but left when i was a few months, I need to visit some day.


So do you like Belgian Waffles? Can you make them?

I can't cook, I make a mean cream of wheat and peanut butter and honey sandwich though.


What sneakers were you wearing when you recorded Girl Crazy?

I probably had wheat SB's or Supremes I kinda wear those like I dont have any other kicks.


Would you do a collaboration with Shaggy?

Hey you never know, he had some bangers . A MR LOVA LOOOVA MMMMM ha


So Mileena from Mortal Kombat has a Sais? Is that her weapon or something?

Sais is plural form. It's a sai so she has sais so that's where my name comes from. People actually think Mileena when they see my youtube which is www.youtube.com/saisandmileena. That used to be my old aim screen name too.


Can I get a Sais T-shirt?

No. Ha nah just playing I got you. They're almost gone though. I only got a few size Larges left.


Shout outs: Shoutout to Lil Britches @ streetcosignor.blogspot.com, my homie Spades, My southern belle Heather over at herfection.blogspot.com , the whole GFC, Laced Mag, Of course James Watts and Arcieri which really added to the tape and most importantly you , the downloader ha.



Oh yeah , the whole Gloomy Squad that got the icon promoting my shit on my top friends list on Myspace.

Track 14. Stalley Interview!!!!!

Tell everyone your name and where your from?

Stalley (StalleytheAPe) and I am from Massillon we call it (DaMilq)

How did you get the name Stalley?

It came from my all my friends and family calling me a Stallion, then i just flipped it too my own style. [Laughs]

I don't know many rappers that have an actual band. Why did you decide to do that?

I like rocking with a band live its just a whole other level of energy when your up on stage with a full band behind you. I mainly did it for that, but we ended up doing a whole album. [Laughs]

You are muslim. There isn't a large number of muslim rappers. Do you think that'll help or hinder your success as a rapper?

I think it can do a little of both. I mean it can help cause its something different an emcee with a different out look on life you know. The way it may hurt is because some people may not take to you, due to some stereotypes surrounding Muslim culture.

What has been your latest project thus far?

Well like i was saying earlier i just finished a live album with my band the Wax machine and right now i am working on my mixtape/ep titled "GoinAPe" be on the look out world!!

The content of your music is pretty positive. Do you think that it is the job of rappers to be positive role model to their listeners?

I wouldn't say be a role model but I do think its our responsibility to put something good in our community and try to help uplift our people.We don't have anyone like Malcom or Martin anymore to help us and speak for us. so with the power of music right now and the influence it has on our people and culture I think we should put something positive in their ears.

What has been your proudest accomplishment as a rapper thus far?

I think in this very short year of me doing music and taking it serious it has to be going over to London and rocking over there and seeing a different side of the world. Look at what Hip Hop has did for me it took me abroad and got me fans in another country, and I've only been rocking for a little less than a year.So I'm proud of that!!!

Who/what do you get inspiration from?

I get inspiration from everywhere, it could be listening to music or it could be fashion, reading, walkiing down the block it comes from all things.

What do you look forward to doing?

I look forward to rocking and making more music and doing this non stop and just building a solid fan base.

If given the chance to work with any artist/producer, who would it be?

I think i would like to work with Nas. I would just like to see what runs through his head while writing. [Laughs]

What artists are you listening to right now?

Right now I am listening to Feist, Freeway, Nas, Jay, Ben Harper, Muse a little bit of everything but nothing to much on a consistant basis.

Has Hip Hop lost its way?

I don't think it lost its way I think it just took a sthort stop along the way, but its getting back on the right track and seems to be coming back around slowly, but it is coming.

Official myspace URL www.myspace.com/stalleysb

Shoutouts: I like to shout out OHIO and the whole city of Massillon i would like to shout out Brooklyn and east new york my 2nd home! and also everyone who supports and listens to Stalley, do keep it keeping on and keep it hip hop. Also i would Like to shout MaMaAPe. Everyone around the world be cool how you be cool!

Word Association

Allah- The creator

Nas- One of the best to ever do it, the one who made be pick up the pen and start to ink these ryhmes of mine.

Chicken- Something I eat too much off. [Laughs]

Family- One group of people i can always count on and i know they have my back.

Music- the love of my life.

Women- 2nd love of my life, but they have been Good and Bad to my life as well. [Laughs]

Thanks for allowing me to interview you.
Peace, Stay Up, & Good Luck.

Track 13. Mickey Factz : Heaven's Fallout!!!!!

Mickey Factz. He is back at it again with Heaven's Fallout, his latest mixtape dropping today. I am positive that his distinguished wordplay, and fresh new approach with production is the perfect balance that his devoted fans will find stimulating.

How did you come up with the name Heaven's Fall Out? Is there a story behind it?

Well while making Flashback, I dropped 3 masterpieces that people gravitated to. Which was You Remind Me, Never Fallout and Stop Me. Those 3 songs got so much of a buzz. That we decided to release this mixtape after Flashback. Heaven's Fallout actually means to me at least a fallen angel who can't return to heaven until his mission is complete. His mission is to restore music to it's true art form.

Why did you choose to drop it on Halloween? Did that day have any significance?

No, Halloween has no significance on it. It was supposed to be dropped on 9/11. But we did some extra tweaking. We just decided that it was going to be released on a holiday. That way it can be instilled in people's mind. But now that you mention it, I'm the fallen angel fighting costume MC's. [Laughs]

What can we expect from this mix tape?

You can expect a totally different sound. You can expect something you have never heard before. A lot of personal lyrics, a lot of emotion and a lot of MICKEY FACTZ. So you know what that means. We're just expanding our sound. So hopefully the core audience can grow with us.

Which song is your favorite?

Honestly, it's very hard to pick one. And a lot of people who get it will agree. There are so many great songs on this release. But if I absolutely have to pick one, it would be Breathe.

Musically this seems like a new approach. You rapped on a beat from theFrench electronica band Telepopmusik. Whose decision was it to do that?

That was acutally saint's idea for the Breathe track. When I heard the beat I was in a trance. All of the music put me in a trance. It was like wow, then we started creating our own music. So we definitely know what our sound is going to be from now on.

Do you think it's important for rappers to constantly reinventthemselves, or should they remain consistent every time they drop newmusic?

I think reinvention and consistency go hand in hand. One hand wash each other both wash the face. Without those two ingredients, you'll fall by the wayside in life period. I'm very happy that I can do both very well and from the looks of things, I'm always ahead of the trends. Just ask Kanye. [Laughs]

You performed in China. How was that experience?

That was an amazing experience. I performed on water over plexiglass with lights, firecrackers, dancers and fire from the stage. I felt... I was a superstar. And it's an experience that'll I'll hold dear to my heart for the rest of my life.

The Supra song is ill. What made you do a song about that specific shoe?

It's a GFC song. We were playing around one day and BAM. We had a song about supra's. We took it as a joke. So we put it out... People started feeling it. I love the song personally. And so is supra. KUDOS TO GFC. [Laughs]

Here's a scenario: Somebody steps on your Supra's. Mickey Factz reacts by____

Getting a another pair. It's so light. I swear!

Do you think you have any competition with any other up and comingrappers?

At this point, I don't think any other up and coming has my mindset. I think their competition is within their genre of music. In my eyes, I'm redefining my own genre. So truthfully there is no competition for me. I'm going to be the trend setter in my genre of Hip Hop. Heavens Fallout is like manna from heaven. You can't refuse that!!!!!

Thanks, Stay Up & Good Luck.

Track 12. Steve-O!!!!!!!!

I love all of the interviews that I do, but this one has had to be one of the most enjoyable to date. I decided to go left field with this one, and ask more personal questions. Everyone knows him for his mean shoe game, and his sneaker themed magazine Laced, but I guarantee that you will learn something that you didnt know. We touched on topics ranging from Aunt Jackie to Air Beds, so scroll down and enjoy.


Tell everyone your name and where your reppin'?

The names Steve-O. Harlem raised me. I'm A&R of GFC sounds and Co-owner of Laced Magazine.

Why do Harlem cats say B so much?

Cause that's harlem... B is as harlem as Mo is to the Bronx or Shawty is ATL or Mayne is Alabama. If your from harlem thats just what you say.

Can you do the Aunt Jackie?

Hell No! We just styled him. No Aunt Jackie shit for me. I'm still on my Harlem Shaking shit. What you know about that B

So why a magazine?

I bet this question was asked to Ralph Lauren when he made Polo, same with Bill Gates in college when asked why a computer, also with Steve Jobs with the iPod. I'm in the same category as them because I'm the best at what I do and I'm changing the game with it.

Who would you most like to feature in the magazine?

Michael Jordan of course. If it wasn't for him I wouldn't even be into kicks. I would probably still be into comic books. [Laughs]

What size are your feet?

I wear a size 8.5 my foot size matches my..... [Laughs]

How many pairs of sneakers do you own?

I've been selling alot of kicks lately, so about 175. I'm trying to get it down to 50 pairs, quality over quantity.

Who are you listening to right now?

Im listening to alot of music. The supra song by the GFC All Stars is hard! The Neptunes version of Harder, Faster,Stronger by Daft Punk. Mickey Factz, J Rawls, Kenna, The Cool Kids, Uffie, Radiohead, and Freaky Will, I heard he recently got signed to Ed Bangers Records, his new tracks are dope. I just been on some other shit lately trying to get inspired by others.

Would you prefer your lady with sneakers or a nice pair of heels?

I like girls with heels, with nice feet. Sneakers are cool on occasions but im a grown man, and I need my lady to be as grown as I am.

Speaking of lady is there a Mrs. Steve-O?

[Laughs] Hmmm. Yeah there is a Mrs. Steve-O, shes around. Relationships are complicated but she sticks with me through it all. We just dont spend enough time together, I dont take time for granted. Life is too short spend it with the ones you love while you can.

What type of females do you like?

I'm into all types of women, black, white, spanish, I'm with it. I need a chick to stimulate me in both ways though. Sex is dope but if I can't build with you then what's the point. I'm not a sex for no reason type of dude.

Are you romantic?

Yeah, I'm pretty romantic. I be on my carl thomas, Jon B shit. Heres an example of a good night with me. You come through to my house, I strip you naked, and make a bubble bath for you. While your in the bath relaxing, I'm cooking your favorite food. Love me!

What's your favorite body part on a female?

Im a breast man.

Were you rooting for Kanye or 50? Why?

I was rooting for hip hop. It was a good look, it brought competitiveness back into the rap game. I just think one of the main reasons kanye out sold 50 was because people view 50 as the bad guy. They wanted him to lose.

Finish this sentence. If I had a million dollars I'd buy me a_______

I would buy a crib, finance Laced, and GFCnewyork/Mickey Factz.

What was the last book you read? How was it?

Alright, Manchild In The Promise Land by Claude Brown. I picked up this book because I read the back of it. It kind of related to me not because my last name is Brown either, but because it was a Black man in the '50's living in Harlem trying to survive. He came across some negative things and turned them positive, and thats what my life is about. It was like an unauthorized autobiography.

If you could get with any chick in Hollywood who would it be?

Scarlett Johansson, im diggin her alot. She has a figure that is amazing.

Tattoos? Where?

Nope, just an oversized birthmark that only my special lady sees.

Dumbest thing you have ever bought?

Air Beds. I use to pop them every month at 100 dollars a piece, them shits got expensive.

Do you read your own magazine?

All Day, its dope. I only put things that I would actually read in the magazine. Do you read it?
Whose giving the interview to who here. [Laughs]

What advice would you give to anyone who'd like to start up their own magazine?

Have your business straight before you start getting creative. Make sure you know what you getting into, because this isn't an easy career. Stay focused and strive to make history.

Official Myspace URL: http://www.myspace.com/sneakersteve

Thanks, Stay Up, & Good Luck.

Track 11. Arcieri Keness!!!!

Tell everyone your name and what city your repping?

[Clears throat and adjust suit tie] Hello, ladies and gents, I'm Arcieri Keness at 6'2, weighing in at 190LBS hailing all the way from Baltimore Maryland.


Where/ how did you get that name? Is there a story behind it?

There is no story, I'm just Arcieri Keness... HELLO.


What inspired you to begin rapping?

What? No, it's more like who in my case. I was inspired by The Fresh Prince and Methodman... strange combo, eh? Heh. I saw how The Fresh Prince painted pictures with words, and he made the whole story totally make sense, that was awesome to me growing up. Plus, I didn't really have a male figure to look up to growing up (victim of a single mom and dead beat dad). To me the art of it seemed to challenge my somewhat complex young mind. Methodman showed me you could play with words to the ulimate degree which made rapping that much more interesting.


What rappers do you get inspiration from?

Jay-z has been a huge inspiration... much love to everyone in BROOKLYN!!! I also love the people that are hungry as if they hadn't eaten in decades... such as Jean Grae, Royce da 5'9 and Common.


Would you call yourself a conscious rapper?

I honestly wouldn't label myself, because you limit yourself once you stick a label on what you are. If you mean am I aware of my content, indeed... as anyone is with anything they say. Your words and what you display to the public eye define you to the one's on the outside looking in.


What has been your latest project thus far?

Pardon, but would you happen to be interrogating me? Haha. jk. Nah, but it's TOP SECRET SPY STUFF, if I tell you... I'd have to... you know. Ha!!


When can we expect an album?

I'm actually done with my mixtape, I just have to redo the intro. So, I'd say it should be dessert after your Thanksgiving dinner.


The AIR Interlude is so dope. Who is the female that your speaking to on that track?

See, you wanna know the method to the madness. You can't go to the circus asking how the fire breathers really eat the fire. Nor can you ask the clowns how they squeeze into that tiny little car... the mystery makes it that much enjoyable and fascinating. Seriously though its Janet Jackson [Laughs].


What would be your dream artist/producer collaboration?

I'd love to do an album with DJ Premier, Danger Mouse (my favorite dj/producer) and the RZA. When I say an album, I'd honestly do and entire album per producer, seriously.


How do you think you will contribute to Hip Hop?

Mainly the topics I touch on, I think I do it in such a fun way without it being commercial. I'm from the era where what you had to say mattered as well as your delivery. This new era is like a poorly sewn together fitted. Palabra!!


Has Hip Hop lost its way?

HIPHOP is the culture, and the people mold HIPHOP. So I'd say the people have lost their way if anything. I'm touching on the artist as well as some of the listeners. Truthfully, the listeners allow such horrible quality of music to continue, they control what comes out and what doesn't... whether they know it or not.


So is their a Mrs. Keness?

Yes. [Impish grin] She's beautiful. She reminds me that no matter how hard you fall, you can always pick yourself up and go on stronger.

Word Association

I'll tell you a word, and you tell me what comes to mind.

Religion- GOD

Honesty- Keness

Music- LOVE

Family- Foundation

Bullshit- 95 % of new artist

Obstacles- Goal


Shoutouts: GOD, my mom Gabrielle, Ashley B, d33ZILLA, the makers of Mike Tyson's Punch Out for NES, Stefan and Stephanie, Miss S. Lambo, Iman Stevenson and Tyler, Sais, Lexx Bubble, Lena Lee, Jay & Edith, Marbolous, Oscar, Malte, my big sister Tracy Springs, Brittany Boone, Brit Parker, Brittany Street, Gia, Eddie, Eric McFatty, The After Clap, the creator of the Cinnamon Cruch Begal at Panera BREAD and the Hazelnut cream cheese, Mario and Luigi, Link and Zelda, Will Smith, Mason Bovie, Soo Kyung, Ms. Lo, Imani Waddy, Heather, Jannah Tate, Cynthia, Viz One, Drew, Wade, Jason S, Sickness and a whole lot of other people I left out.

http://www.myspace.com/keness
Thanks, Stay Up, & Good Luck

Track 10. McFly Interview!!!!

I'm happy to get back into the swing of things. Word to Brooklyn had a bit of a hiatus. I'm glad to return with a really dope cat, he goes by the name of McFly. The name pretty much explains his demeanor. Check out the interview for more on his clothing line.

Let everyone know your name and where your from?

The name's McFly, Im from Cleveland, but I reside in Atlanta.

Tell everyone about your clothing line. What is the concept behind it? Where can we purchase it?

The concept of The Popular Brand is 6 years in the making. Over the years its been through many stages, from paint shirts to what the overall brand is today. I basically want to give people a stylish alternative to what they see everyday, while bringing styles from the past and putting my own creative twist to them. You can purchase Popular http://popularphasion.com/

What sets your line apart from the many that are out now?

Well first off I am an artist and designer, so i bring my art and design to every piece that I do. I bring concept and vision also to the table. Popular is not just a line, its a brand as well as a lifestyle. Most lines are just a spur of the moment type of thing, but this is my passion this is my life, I believe that i bring an unmatched dedication and drive to the industry.

What is your ultimate career goal? Can we expect any other ventures from you?

My ultimate career goal is to leave behind a legacy of quality, creativity and innovation. I want to touch as many lives as I can with > my art and design. Yes, you can expect many other ventures in the future. Art and design can be applied to almost everything we do in life. I feel that the world is my canvas so I will continue to create > until I am no longer able to.

Would you like to collaborate with any other designers?

Takashi Murakami, Jeremy Scott. James Roper, Fafi.

Are there any designers that you get inspiration from? If so who?

Including the ones I said I want to work with, um INSA, and few graf artists. Most my inspiration comes from other sources such as music, film and just the ills of the world. I look up to Designers but I don't really draw inspiration from them.

What does an everyday outfit for you look like? What key item should every guy own to be on his style A game?

For me it depends on where I'm going. If I'm on the way to school I'm not really worried too about my attire, so you might see a fresh tee, some jeans and a fitted. But if I'm going out, then the world becomes my stage. You get me in all my glory. We all dress ourselves different for different reasons so a key item for me is not a key item for someone else. The only thing i think that every man needs to own in his life is a tailored Power suit, if not a Power suit, at least a high quality suit that fits you nicely.

What advice can you give to people with emerging lines?

Never let someone tell you that you cant do something. But you have to be ready to commit pretty much your entire life to it. ALWAYS DO YOUR HOMEWORK !!. Research everything you can about the industry as you can. Fashion is 80% business and 20% talent and design. And make sure you are doing it for the right reasons.

Which artists are you listening to right now?

My iTunes stays on shuffle for the most part but I listen to alot of Jay-z, Tupac, Fatboys, Lily Allen, M.I.A. Kanye, Lupe, Outkast, Gym > Class Heroes, Steed Lord, Daft Punk and The Eurythmics.

I'm sure the ladies would like to know if your taken or not. Is there a Mrs. McFly?

[Laughs] but of course, her name is Art/Design. I used to cheat on her something terrible, but now we're working things out and she is the love of my life.

Word Association

I'll give you a word and you tell me what comes to mind.

Trends- Here today, gone tomorrow. Brought back next decade. Only to repeat the cycle.


Home- Where the heart is. Where ever I lay my fitted.

Art- The driving force of my life. My reason for being.

Mistakes- The best learning form known to man.

Love- Art/Design and Ohana (Ohana means family)

Shoutouts all the Popular people of the world, all the fans who support me and my passion, and all those who believe in me. I wont let you down.

Thanks Stay Up & Good Luck

McFly
http://popularphasion.com/

Popular Street Couture. Never settle for less.

Track 9. SKYZOO Interview!!!!!!!

This is the most exciting post to date. Today's interview will be with a Brooklyn native, and a true lyricist. He's worked with 9th Wonder, battled Jin, and had songs with the late great J Dilla (R.I.P). His word play is out of this world, and guess what? He's from Brooklyn. Anyone who knows me knows that I show a great deal of love to my fellow Brooklynites. Now I'm sure your still wondering who it is. You'll just have to read the interview to find out.

I'm sure you've heard this question too many times. How did you get the name Skyzoo?

Well my middle name is Skyler. That's the name that my parents, family, friends, teachers, everyone calls me. That's my name, and when I was born in 1982 there was a big disco group out from Brooklyn named "Skyy" and they had a big hit song called "Skyyzoo". My fam used to sing the song to me as a baby and it stuck as my nickname. So when I started rhyming I just ran with that, but I took a "y" out to make it closer to my name

Cloud 9: The Three Day High is ill. How did you write and record that in the short span of only three days? What was that process like?

When I make music, I usually write everything on the spot. The majority of my material was written right before I recorded it. I don't write at home and then bring it in later. I write it, record it, move on to the next. So with Cloud 9, I just started writing and recording. I didn't set out to do it all in 3 days, I just recorded until I was ready to stop. I felt 12 songs was enough, and it just so happened to be all within a 3 day period. It was an incredible process because I was doing the music just to do it. I didn't have a plan on releasing it. I just did it for me and 9th to bump in the truck.

There's a song on Cloud 9 called You & Me. Was that written for a specific female?

Nah it's a combination of experiences. Past girlfriends, current situations, etc. It was a series of collective points in my life thus far. That's one of my favorite songs on the EP.

9th Wonder did the beats on Cloud 9. How did that relationship with him come about?

I met 9th and the whole HOJ through my man Chaundon. He introduced me to them about 2 years ago and ever since then they've been my second family. I have tons of love for them and all they've done for me. 9th is one of the best producers out right now, so having him produce the entire EP is something that not too many people can say they have.

On Cloud 9 you spoke a lot about hustling? How does that influence your music? Did those experiences help shape you to be the rapper that you are now?

I speak about what I know and the world I come from. I choose not to glorify it but instead show all sides of light on it. The good, the bad, the ups, the downs, etc. It definitly shaped me to be the artist and the man that I am today. I try to keep my music as authentic as I possibly can. Meaning if I speak about it, I either went through it, experienced it, or had family and friends go through it as I watched. Whether it be good or bad.

Corner Store Classic recently came out. What collaborations and producers are on there?

The production on there comes from 9th Wonder, Dj Premier, Ron Browz, Black Milk, Illmind, Hi-Tek, Khrysis, J Dilla, and tons of other. Featured artists on the tape include Maino, Torae, Guilty Simpson, Sean Price, Stimuli, Nina B., and more.

Can we expect any up-coming shows?

Definitly. I'm hoping to hit the road real soon. I love rocking the stage almost as much as I love recording. To go to different cities and get love from people of different regions is unexplainable. I love the rush of watching the crowd get their money's worth.

You have done collaborations with some pretty ill artists and producers. Out of the many artists that you've worked with who has been your favorite?

I think working with Dj Premier has been the craziest so far. Someone of his caliber only comes by once every 20 or so years. To be able to say I have 2 songs with one of the pioneers of our culture does it all for me. If I never recorded again I can say that accomplished that. But everyone I've worked with has been a great experience and a blessing.

Are there any rappers and producers that you would still like to work with?

I definitly wanna work with Kanye, Timbaland, Just Blaze, Eminem. I think me and Em in the studio together would be crazy. Artist wise, definitly Jay, Nas, Mos Def, 50 Cent definitly, Jeezy, TI, and a few others. I'd love to pen for Diddy too. Diddy is the dude!

Who are your top 5 rappers of all time?

Aww maaaan, hmmm. In no particular order and not including myself; Jay-Z, B.I.G, Nas, Mos Def, and Andre 3000.

Rumor has is that you ghostwrite for a couple rappers. Is there any truth to that?

Aww maaan, I can't disclose that. Hahaha. Lets just say that the longer I'm around, the better everyone's music will sound. [Laughs].

How did it feel to win Underground Artist Of The Year?

That was an extreme blessing. I won "male artist of the year" in 2004, and that was wonderful. I'm up for another UMA this year as well so hopefully I can bring that one home to keep the other one company. Anytime you get recognized for your talent it's a big deal. No matter what kind of award it is. I treat all of them like a Grammy.

What artists are you listening to right now?

The Clipse, Black Milk, Lupe, Jeezy is crazy, 50, and anytime Jay drops new shit I'm always all ears.

Has hip hop lost its way?

Nah, not it's way, just it's direction. But everything has it's ups and downs. Nothing can be up forever. Hip hop will be here for as long as the world exists. We just have to keep the balance in the game or else hip hop will lose it's direction more and more. There's nothing wrong with change, but it has to make sense. The changes that are being seen in the game nowadays are ridiculous. I don't complain about the game at all, but I do see what's going on within it and there's needs to be a little more structure. But I'm not worried. Everything will work out fine when my shit drops. [Laughs].

Tell everyone your official Myspace URL: Www.myspace.com/skyzoo.

I'm on there everyday and I run my page myself, so if you holla at me I'm the one reading it and responding. I try to answer every single person back one by one.

Shoutouts: My whole crew, my engineer Dj Nyce, my manager rickcaps, my whole team behind, the whole NYC, and everyone who's a fan of what I'm doing. I appreciate it all.

Thanks for allowing me to interview you. Peace , Stay Up, & Good Luck.

http://www.jdilla.org/

"Corner Store Classic (The Mixtape)" Hosted By Dj Kay Slay & Mick Boogie Available NOW @ www.myspace.com/skyzoo R.I.P. Dj BK R.I.P. Stack Bundles R.I.P. Jay Dee/J. Dilla (the greatest)

The Interlude: Curtains Interview !!!!!

> I'm truly excited to finally get an interview with one of the most sick up and coming rapper. In addition to that he's from Brooklyn, and you know I have to show love to anyone reppin' the best borough in NYC. Make sure you cop the mixtape at http://www.firstplacelosers.com/dopecity.

> Tell everyone your name and where your from?

Hello world its the magnificent, vanglorious, hot steppin fella they call Dope Boy C better known as *CurT@!n$*

> How did you get the name Curtains?

Curtains simply mean the show stopper...Walk in a room and its just "All eyes on me" [Laughs]

>Your song "Its The Shoes" is extremely popular. Why did you choose sneakers as a topic for the song?

I love sneakers...I aint no sneaker head but I love me a nice pair. I wear all my kicks, I dont buy 2 for storage or none of that, I dont do the line up thing, I'm not on hypebeast searching, I just like a real nice pair of sneakers so I make music about my life and why not make a song about my foot game.

> YO! When the hell is the mixtape dropping? The anticipation is crazy right now.

August 1st I promise you. Its worth the wait...for the meantime check up on it at www.myspace.com/thegreatadventures.

> What will be the title of mixtape? How many tracks will be on it?

The Great Adventures of Dope Boy C: Dope City Vol. 1...its bout 18 tracks total including skits, freestyles and songs...its one big story so expect the unexpected. August 1st!!!

>You have a song called "I Promise" was that for a specific female? Speaking of which, Is there a Mrs. Curtains?

[Laughs], Yeah. "I Promise" is a true to life song that I definitely experienced. Very much written about a specific female.

> You have an 80's influence in your style and music. Where does that stem from?

That's a big misconception that i wanna clear up, i was born in '84, I barely experienced the 80's. My music is heavily early 90's influenced. The first song i've heard in my life was "Rampage" by EPMD. That was '91. I wasn't into music before that. So this vibe I got is from that era and on, that "Know The Ledge" era, that's the vibe I be on. I may nod off at the 80's and dig into that chamber every here and there but i definitely get my whole scene from the early 90's EPMD era shit.

> You do a column in Laced magazine. How did that begin?

Steve-O, Kwazz, and Saint are my homies. I bugged Steve for years to let me write a column in blog-like style before blogs were popping and he let me do my thing, so i get to talk my shit every issue. Shouts to Laced Magazine. Shouts to Connected Magazine, I had a huge hand in starting that magazine up and getting it running. I wanna do my own magazine real soon, something real epic.

> Who are some of the people that make up Hang Em High Entertainment? Can you elaborate furthur on exactly what it is?

Hang Em High is my family. My immediate circle of people that i ran with all my life. It got nothing to do with music really. Its more of a family based thing. High Society Life is the company we do all our ventures under. Check the blog... http://www.highsocietylife.blogspot.com/.

> Erik B and Rakim's "Know The Ledge" is a classic hip hop joint. What made you want to rap on that beat, and do a video for it as well?

That song was so epic growing up. Rakim said the coldest rhymes on that record. Rakim fanatics argue me day to day, but I could care less, those were his coldest rhymes ever said and that beat goes beyond magic. I just had to get my lil shit off on that one. Far as the video, I just wanted to take it back to the basics of fresh ass grimey videos. Niggas videos be too clean. The black and white grain look is so missing these days. I had a hella great time making that video, all my homies came out and it was cold as shit, but we had a hella great time.

> What rappers do you get inspiration from?

Kanye West, Lil Wayne, 50 Cent, Common, Andre 3000, Joe Buddens, Stack Bundles (R.I.P), Cee-Lo, John Legend, Will-I-Am and uhm Lupe Fiasco. That's bout it.

>Who are your top five dead or alive rappers of all time?

Jay-Z, B.I.G, LL Cool J, Snoop Doggy Dogg, and Kanye West.

> What artists are you listening to now?

Marvin Gaye, Kanye West, John Legend, Gnarls Barkely, EPMD, LL Cool J, Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, Sam Cooke, Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, Donny Hathaway, and Lil Wayne.

> Are there any record deals in the works right now?

Yeah I'm signed up with the big homie Tyrese...we got that Transformers money behind us. Got a few labels hollerin now, but I'm tryna raise the commas up in the offers so we takin it slow. Transformers just did $300 million worldwide, we aint hurting! [Laughs]

> What artist would you most like to collaborate with?

Kanye, Gnarls Barkley, Common, and Andre 3000!

>We all want to know when the album is going to be dropping? Will there be any collaborations on there?

The album coming before I die! [Laughs]....nah its halfway through, i'm tryna create a masterpiece. Its called "A Beautiful Mind" and "Its The Shoes" is on there..." Show Off" is on there, "I Promise" so you see the caliber of music coming. Far as collabs, I cant say as of right now.

>Your style is out of this world. What items should every man have to look his best?

Why thank you ma'am. A dude should have a great pair of jeans. I'm the type to get a great pair and wear the shit out of it for months. Uhhh i dunno, my style is so unorthodox i dont know what advice to give to others, [Laughs]...I go all out with accessories and hats and sneakers, every dude just gotta be clean, clothes gotta fit, not too baggy, not too tight, just fit.

> Tell the readers a little about HSL, and the HSL clothing line?

We still tryna develop it. My style is a cross between YSL and Coca-Cola so i'm trying to find that medium line to create a scene with. So 'til we find that perfect balance, we still developing.

>What are your top five brands/designers?

Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Coca-Cola, Benetton, and Levis.

> Your kick game is insane. How many do you own? What are your favorite pair?

Honestly I own about 15 pair of sneakers now, I've downsized and stop buying like I used to, I just find myself wearing my favorite shit over and over. My favorites in my closet are my Jordan 1's in black and blue, my Jordan 3's in white/cement/red, and my adidas Gazelle Gucci edition. That bout it. My Fila tennis' get a lot of love also.

> How does Curtains want to be remembered, when he is no longer here?

"That nigga had fun while he was here" that's what i want them to say. Remember me for being fun.

> What ventures/projects can we expect from you in the near future?

HSL clothes, the magazine, the album, im on my Hollywood shit so a movie/tv show aint too far fetched, I'm still ghostwriting, I'm producing now, engineering, I just want to stay busy all day so i keep on a chase to outdo myself in every venture.

> Tell everyone your Official Myspace URL :
www.myspace.com/curtains
www.myspace.com/thegreatadventures

Shoutouts to Hang Em High, Headquater Ent., Clark Kent, Jon Stock, Tyrese, Ody, Torch, Bless, Show, and everybody i love. And thank you for this opportunity to talk my shit! [Laughs] =)


Thanks, Stay Up, & Good Luck.

Track 8.

I decided to do an interview with a really cool cat. His name is Sais, you'll see how to pronounce it if you read further, (that's only if you've never heard of him, which I doubt). He's pretty well known amongst the sneaker community, and in addition to that he raps. To learn a more about him scroll down and check out the interview. You can also check out his Myspace page at www.myspace.com/imsais.

Start off by telling everyone your name and where your from?

My name is Sais© , which is pronounced Size. I'm a New Yorker..

How did you get the name Sais?

When I first started rapping my name was Jiggy Blades and then shortened to Jig Blades. I didn't feel like associating myself with the jiggy era so I made a change to Sais© and it stuck. I didn't even mean for the meaning of jig to be flashy more like a stabbin motion. [Laughs].

How do you feel about the current state of Hip Hop? Has it taken a turn for the worst or is it just a fresh approach?

I'm a fan of the 90s golden era of hip hop so I would say a turn for the worse. It seems like rappers nowadays are looking to this as a get rich quick scheme but the hustle is way different. A Fabolous clone is just not cutting it nowadays. Even looking at people's flow everyone seems like a carbon copy. I tell people it seems like hip hop evolved then devolved right back to its simplistic ABC flow.

Well anyone whose heard your music know you have a really unique flow. Where did you get your flow from?

I googled it. Nah just playing, as I said before I draw inspiration from the golden era really. I respect the flows of Treach, Big Pun, Kool G Rap, Camp Lo. More recently Freeway, I fux with his unorthodox flow. Lupe do his thing too.

In addition to rap you do many other ventures. What do they include?

I got a couple things, but I'll just shout out Laced Magazine right there so I don't jinx the good things coming up. Shoutouts to Steve and Kwazz and the whole GFC. I got my own column in each magazine.

How did that begin?

Well Steve-O hit me up when I had signed on a old screen name getting ready to delete my AOL account, Sais© 9 JordanZ. He had heard of me and peeped me in the sneaker scene so he offered a spot in the magazine. My brother always says if someone invites you to a party, go. So I'm here!

What artists are you listening to right now?

I don't even know, I don't really fux wit current rappers like that because they're all the same but I'll give Peedi Crakk some burn in the iPod, Freeway, Jayz, Lil Wayne and Nas.

Your kick game is pretty vicious. How many do you own?

Thanks. I may have like 50 to 55 now I used to have almost 100 pairs of pure Jordans. But then there were so many I didn't wear I decided to break down the count and do the quality over quantity thing. I don't care about having a million sneakers. I smush the competition not smash but smush. [Laughs] but really I aint one of the other rappers that don't know about this sh*t walking around with fakes claiming to hold that power. Shoutout to Fabolous by the way [Laughs].

When did you start collecting?

Around 1999 is when I first started really copping. I always loved sneakers but didn't have the money.

What is your favorite pair?

Air Jordan VI black/infrared.

How do you feel about the new cats jumping on the sneaker bandwagon? Is it a good or bad thing?

Well I'm from a different era of sneaker collecting because I got into it before the hype of this sh*t started. If you want to be real about it, hood niggaz and chicks been sneakerheads. People know that back in the day you go to Brooklyn you can see a girl or a dude that had to get every Jordan to stunt with right when it came out. Now this is all commercialized and like the thing to do. Before people aint know they were sneakerheads until they had like 20 kicks and someone would be like "damn you be copping mad kicks" Nowadays you can find kids with no sneakers on some "yeah I'm a sneakerhead I'm just trying to build my collection heheheh" its disgusting, but its whatever at the same time [Laughs].

Would you prefer a woman in heels or sneakers? Why?

I prefer a woman in heels, its all about the femininity for me, although I can appreciate a girl in a hot pair of nikes. Femininity is a word right? [Laughs]

I'll give you a couple words and you give me the first thing that comes to mind.

New York-The start

Waffles-Belgium

Sneakers-Jordans

Music-Sais

Sais-Sexy

Women-Beautiful


Thanks for allowing me to interview you.

Peace, Stay Up, & Good Luck.

Track 7. Mickey Factz Interview!!!

Happy to be doing this again. I'm sure everyone knows your name by now and wanted an update to see how you've progressed thus far. Make sure you download Flashback at http://gfcny.com/.


>So I'm gonna jump right in. Flasback will be dropping on Friday. What can we expect from that?


Woooooo. You can expect the hottest mixtape to drop everrrrrrrr. Its an old school cd, but its musical. We got Jazz, Rock, Pop, hip-hop, Lounge Music, R&B.... expect to be blown away.

>You recently discovered that rapper O-Solo had pretty much stolen the concept from your song " You Remind Me". When did you find out? How do you feel about that?

Well, [pauses to laugh].... I put this record out in February. Apparantly homeboy heard my song awhile back. Fact of the matter is his song catalogue is terrible. So to avoid getting dropped from TVT, he had to come up with something to save himself. This is the sad part, he did it for his career, I did it for fun. Haha. Now I knew about him trying to do the record back in april or may. And its sad that he's manipulating the people to have them think it was his idea. His version is corny, u can't understand what he's saying. Its just terrible. Its cool tho. Just lets me know I'm on the right path to success. We'll handle the situation accordingly. GFC style.....

>Everyone wants to know is there any deals in the works?

I got a couple of deals on tizzable. I've been to every label in the city so far. They know about Mickey and the offers/interest are there.

>What will be the name of the album? What is gonna be the first single off of the album?

The name of the album is called "Itz Mickey". The single is still undecided because there are sooooo many of em. Hard to choose.

>When is the album gonna be dropping, and will there be any collaborations on it?

Album is dropping late 08. I wanna big release for it. I should be signed before the year is up.

>I recently saw a Youtube video of you, and there was a guy named Precize doing the beat. His beats are ill. How did that relationship come about? Will he be producing anything on the album?

Precize did half of flashback over. We met through myspace and he's like my brother. He's going to be producing more than half of the records on the album and upcoming mixtapes.

>Tell me a little about the Japanese Fader photoshoot?

Yeah that was a good look. We went out, met with our fellow Japanese comrades. That's where the statement konichiwa comes from. They put me on. They came to us because of the strong movement and unity we're showing through-out the city.

>When can we expect you on the cover of Laced magazine?

When I go platinum. So next year.

>In the song Truth or Dare on In Search Of... you brought up Lupe Fiasco, and that you guys should do a collaboration called Blind Fury. Can we expect a Mickey Factz x Lupe Fiasco joint?

The Lupe and Mickey collabo is going down and its coming reeeeeeeal soon. Please keep ur ears open for that.

>Ill give you a word and you tell me what word comes to mind:

>GFC-Independent

>The Bronx-Home

>Sneakers-Culture

>Fame-Over-rated

>Struggle-Beautiful

>Hip Hop-Life


Thanks for another great interview with you Mickey. Peace. Stay Up.Good Luck.

Itz Mickey! GFC

Track 6. [Dreamcloth]

When the chance presented itself to get to interview a talented up and coming designer I decided to take advantage of the oppurtunity. You can take a look at it at http://www.dreamclothnyc.com/ or http://www.myspace.com/dreamcloth.

> Start off by telling everyone your name and where your from?

Rugz, Deniro,The Artist I go by many name.

> You have a pretty ill clothing line called Dreamcloth. Why did you pick that name?

>Because we all have dreams but not many of us take charge of them. My dream was to create my own cloth (clothing). I used to be a big dreamer when I was younger and as I grew a lot of it happened to be taken away from me at an early age. So now it's all or nothing and dreams aren't dreams anymore. Thats how the name came about.

> What made you want to start a clothing line at a time when so many > clothing lines are emerging?

>You are correct lots of lines are out and coming but its the art of it. A lot of these lines come from money. This is the growth process, I'm an artist in every shape and form. It's not how many lines its who can put out great shirts and jeans etc. Secondly most of these other dudes have mom and dad to give them money to start off thats not where I am with it. I mean if you have the funding cool, I'm happy for you. But How long can you keep coming up with nice things is the question. It's about being creative. I see through a special set of eyes, so I'm going to stay afloat.

> Right now your only doing male clothing. When can the ladies like myself expect a female line?

Happy you asked. The female line is being printed as we sit here. The Myspace page is up go check it out the lifestyle of the Pretty Crooks, High Class Sh*t Poppers http://www.myspace.com/belladreamrock.

> Who are some of your favorite designers? Who would you like to do a design collaboration with?

Ummmm my favorite would have to be Nigo for his vision and his style. He is a collector of many things from all over the world, so I admire what he has built with the Bathing Ape line. Who would I like to do a collabo? Anyone with talent thats ready to work.

> What is your ultimate career goal? What are some of your accomplishments thus far?

I just want to leave my mark here on this earth as an artist, originator, collector, etc. As far as accomplishments I have been in several magazines, video blogs, things are picking up, I'm just building to put us where we need to be.

> What would be a typical everyday outfit for you? How would you describe your style?

My style is terrific [LAUGHS]. I do what I want thats the key to fashion. Don't think to hard, just flow and you will wow them, if that's your aim. As of everyday fabrics for me hmmmmm I can't tell jackers probably scrolling down right now to jock my sh*t. Get your own sh*t poser!![LAUGHS]>

> Rumor has it that people from Brooklyn have the best style. What do you think sets us apart from anyplace else?

Because we are the birth place of style. Robbing and boosting you name it [LAUGHS] I hate to state that but it's true. From the start of Hip Hop we created the that "Get Fresh" attitude, and we are still setting trends today. From Kane in the 80's to Jay-z, and Fab now, just to name a few. You still see Lil' Kim crushing 'em in the streets with the $5,000 bags and heels. NY period is the birth of Hip Hop and Hip Hop fashion, so you already know!!

> What is the key item that every man should own to be on his style A game?

Haaa. Rare kicks. Gotta be able to pull out some before seen joints on them or exclusive accessories, change holders, watches, scarves, (not to put over your face). A nice cell phone is important as well, it says a lot about you as a man of business. In addition to those a nice backpack and chain ring, etc.

> Your kick game is pretty crazy. If you had to give away all your kicks and keep one pair what would they be?

The Nike Supreme Blazers red joints, with the Gucci color scheme.>

> Would you prefer your girl in heels or sneakers? Why?

Umm can't pick. I like them to switch it up both are sexxy [LAUGHS].

> I'm sure the ladies would like to if your taken or not. Is there a female in your life right now?

Yes there is my mom and grand mom [Laughs]. They mean the world to me, but nah I'm single.

>Shoutouts to Dreamcloth/La Bella Dream fam, Brooklyn, My family, I live this thing called life for them. Have a billion dollar day.

Track 5.

SPEECH. An urban renaissance man, well thats what I call him. He does clothing design, web design, photography and a broad array of other things. Although I am from NY I do have to show love to cats from other cities, especially if they've accomplished that much at the age of 19. Yeah YOU reading this, step your game up.


> Start off by telling everyone your name and where your from?

A : I'm from Detroit, Michigan, born and raised. Joy Rd.

> You have a clothing line? Who is involved in it? How did that begin?
> Where can we purchase it?

A: I own 1/3 of The Welldone, along with Raymidwest and Albyn Maranen. It's actually the final product from the merge of ABE Clothing and Farclose Clothing Co. You can purchase it at www.thewelldone.com, and you should be able to get it from sk8 shops in Michigan and Japan.

> If given the chance to collaborate with a designer who would it be and why?

A: Wow. That's a hard one. It would probably have to be the Designers of Nike. They work so hard to do what they do, and I comes out so nice. I'd love to have a Welldone X Nike shoe out.

> Photography means a lot to you. When did your love for that begin? Why did you continue to pursue your love for it?

When I first started skating, most of the photographers wanted me to take their photos while they skateboarded also. From there they just taught me how to use a camera. I can't put a camera down. i have to create media that puts people in awe. It's an addiction.

> Do you have a favorite photograph and photographer?

I don't have a favorite photograph, but right now, my favorite photographer is Richard Avedon.

> Your a skater. How long have you been skating? How do you feel about the sudden interest in skate culture? Is it a good or bad thing?

Skateboarding and Photography came hand in hand, so since 13. The sudden interest in sk8 culture is a good and bad thing... when I first started, I sacrifice myself just so I could skate. I got into fights, arguments, and been misjudged all because I've wanted that one thing. With sk8ing in the media now, it's easier to except. But many people are abusing their rights. There is no such thing as half way crooks. Go all the way or go home. No experimenting.

> Your an avid traveler.Where have you been? Does that influence you artistically? What have you learned while abroad?

I've been to Japan, and I plan to hit the UK in the next couple months. Besides the 50 states, traveling does influence me artistically. Going somewhere and breathing someone else's air, or eating their food, it's great, because you learn more about things that are different to you. Japan is great. That's my second home.

> Who and what influences you?

A : People who defy the law influence me. Not so much as criminals, but people who go out of the ordinary to make something happen and they stand by their commitment. That's what makes important people.

> So you do web design, clothing design, and photography. What don't you do? How do you manage it all?

I don't do ballet [Laughs]. I don't try to see it as me managing multiple tasks.. they all go hand in hand. I think it's beautiful when you can just take whatever you have around you and make something out of it. Don't be an artist of paint, or pencil. Be an artist of life.

> What has been your greatest accomplishment? What do you plan on accomplishing in all aspects of your life (career, relationship, etc) ?

Most people would say that I've accomplished much, but I don't see it as accomplishment, because I'm not done yet and I'm not stopping until I'm on top. I want to run a corporate multi media publishing company, doing everything from photos to sound. And I will have a big family.

> What artists are you listening to right now?

Termanology, Kool G Rap, Saigon, Tasha(Korean), and Breakbeats.

> I'll say a word and you give me the first word that comes to mind?
>
> Detroit- Nest
>
> Struggle- Training
>
> Love- Product
>
> Skating- Freedom
>
> Photography- Expression
>
> Art- Manipulation
>
> Thanks for allowing me to interview you.
> Peace, Stay Up, & Good Luck.

Track 4.

T and I did not feel up to it, so we didnt go to the BHF. While T held down the fort here, I was in Jamaica for 10 days. Did alot of partying, it was fun while it lasted, but I started to miss home. Here are a couple of random ass pictures, it wont be much because I'm way too lazy to post them up. I cant remember where I took em so I guess they wont be captioned either.

Big Happy Birthday Shoutout to Mickey Factz.

Track 3.

First day of summer, and why I am I stuck in the house babysitting bad ass kids. I have no phone charger so my SK is gonna die in about the next 10 minutes. Although I am drinking some bomb ass ice tea (the home-made joint) its really hitting the spot right now, I'm still annoyed. Currently listening to Amy Crackhouse, she's soulful as hell man.

Thanks to the people at MTV T and I got tickets to see Mandy Moore tomorrow, its being filmed by the Oxygen network. Im pretty much open to anything, but I honestly cannot remember any of her songs though. I am looking forward to the Brooklyn Hip Hop Festival on the 23rd, Ghostface, Consequence, Kidz In The Hall, and many others are gonna be there. If you dont live in NY it sucks for your ass. Sorry no pics ya'll but I plan on taking lots during the BHF. When boredom strikes I write poetry so here you go. Like it, thanks. Hate it, kick bricks.

Walks that lead to in depth talks along cracked sidewalks

We observe as bodies lay barren on streets outlined by chalk

Surroundings lead to empty futures, and forgotten happiness

Oppurtunities are as slim as pins when it comes to furthering

Furthering our thoughts and expectations, and dreamin beyond doubt

Casualties are the opposite of blue moons because they happen to soon

Cause niggas flip keys and bricks that don't open doors or build houses

Given a number I'd pick a thousand

A thousand ways to make better days for the youth around my way

And then there are those of us that alienate ourselves from our surroundings, and put our souls into abandonment in fear that it will engulf us in pain and fury

Poverty binds us while statistics define us, and enclose us in a field of anguish and desparity

Its as though we are running out of people to blame and should we now point to ourselves

Cause that no child left behind shit, got niggas dippin out at fifth to do some illegal shit by sixth

Lets not go there cause evidently teachers don't care, so instead we hit the block

Pencils replaced with steel that cocks

And not the rooster type but the shooting type I long to see aspirations of toting nines being exchanged for enlightened minds and hood genocide replaced by graduation lines

So who will be the first to begin this mind revolution, and make a contribution to the solution we are faced with

I say we are the ones given the knowledge so the responsibilities must be taken.

Thank God it started raining, I dont feel so bad.

Signing off listening to Skyzoo-Get It Done
Peace.Keep.Hip.Hop.Alive.
=]

Track 2

Well this morning I heard about Kanye being in New York, so being the psychotic fan of Kanye that I am, I had to drag T along. Anybody that knows me knows that I love me some Kanye. If you didn't know Kanye's mother Donda West recently wrote a book called "Raising Kanye". Knowing this I used this oppurtunity to meet pretty much one of favorite rappers. We got more pictures than expected, because T was so persistent in getting extras because some fat dude was in the first ones. So enjoy.

=]

-Fin

The Skit: Mickey Factz Interview!!!

When the oppurtunity presented itself to interview Mickey Factz, I jumped at the chance. He is one of the dopest up and coming rappers, not to mention he's from NY. If you haven't heard his first mixtape, you definitly need to get with it you can download it athttp://gfcny.com/ . His next mixtape Flashback Vol.1 will be dropping this summer, and I am anticipating its release very much. I'm sure it will be nothing less than lyrical rawness.


Start off by telling everyone who you are

Its Mickey Factz, Hip hops favorite dream, savior of the bronx and the pharoah of the world. Haha

How did you get the name Mickey Factz?

Alot of people think Mickey comes from that mouse. But it comes from natural born killas the movie. Dude who was in that movie, his name was mickey. He loved mallory with all his heart.... he woulda died for her. Hip hop is mallory to me. And basically all I talk about Is factz so that's why that's the last name.

When did rapping begin for you?

Rapping began for me back when kane was rapping. He was so dope. I was about 5 or 6 but somethings you never forget. I took it from there. I couldn't stop rapping from then.

What do you like to do when you need inspiration? What is your creative process like?

Well for inspiration it comes from my GFC brother/A&R. And with any brother there comes arguments but we come together to make some innovative music. I also like to take a beat and listen to it for a couple of days before I unleash fury on it, You know?

What do you feel you bring to the game that current rappers aren't?

Well me being innovative is going to be the key. I try to stray from what's popping and go left and make it popping. Being a trendsetter is so much better than just following people. Cause then the people follow you when you become the originator.

What do you think about the current state of hip hop music?

Hip-hop is an evolution. Basically its going thru a phase. We've always evolved. Now its about time that people evolve with it. Either follow or take lead. I'm gonna be one of the leaders. Aint nothing like going to a different state and breathing their air. That's how yall gonna feel when u hear me.

What rappers are you listening to right now?

Joe budden. Jay-z. Oun p. Curtains. Nymesis. Nakim. Kapps. Charlie clips. Smoke & numbers. Those are the artist that impress me right now.

If given the chance what artist would you most want to collaborate with? Why?

Joe budden. Cause his shit is so dope. Not to mention doing some shit with wayne or jay z. Even beanie. That's my competition. Outshining one of the greats. I'm down to collab with anybody really tho.

What made you choose use all NERD beats for your first mixtape?

Wanted to do something different. Nobody ever took those beats and went off on them how I did. Not to mention it was a conceptualized mixtape. That's what I wanna do from now on. I wanna take other peoples joints and make them as hot or even better than the original. I took that mixtape to jive and they were like this is what pharell should've done.

What made you wanna voice your political views in songs like Thrasher?

The state of the country was really getting to me and I absolutely was getting tired of no voices being spoke on about it. We living in a time where are president is one of the dumbest people ever. And america is content with it. Mickey isn't tho. Mickey is the voice of GFC and I spoke for so many people who didn't have the outlet to.

Do you think the up-coming mixtape will outdo the previous one?

Oh yea. Its gonna be taken to the next level. We don't believe in staying stagnant at GFC. So we going all out and taking this to every aspect of marketing. Stickers, video's, mural's, music, flyers, parties. The whole nine. We tryna make this into the event of the century. We flashing back!

What role do you play in GFC, and how did that begin?

I am the voice of GFC. I get our thoughts and views out there for the people's ears. I tell our lifestyle to everybody tryna find out what's hot and what's not. We dictate what's popping. GFC is a consulting firm. We do so much for different artists, clothing lines and media pertaining to magazines and video. We handle bizness.

So far what has been your greatest experience as a rapper? And what do you look forward to doing?

Well when people stop me in the street that's a great feeling. When my songs come on that's a great feeling. My greatest achievement has yet to come. But it will in 08. That's the year. 06 was the fast break. 07 was the alley oop. 08 is the shawn kemp slam on 2 defenders. Haha

I'm sure the ladies would like to know if your taken or not?

I go out with this girl named mallory. We been dating for years now. But I cheat on her with other girls from time to time. Haha

On an end note, I would just like to say thanks for giving me the oppurtunity to do this interview with you.

No doubt. One hand wash the other both wash the face.

Stay Up, Much Love, & Good Luck

Shout out to GFC and the bronx movement. Get ready to flashback! Itz mickey! GFC

Track 1

Hell of a damn day today. Well, because T and I are such thrill seekers we went to a semi-rock concert, well their a bit more pop but who cares. Today we saw the band Cartel (most known for the song Honestly). They're participating in A Band In A Bubble, let me explain it further. So the band stays in a big ass bubble for 20 days. When they finally leave the bubble on June 12th, they'll perform a brand new album. I swear I have never drank so much Dr.Pepper in my life, they sponsored the event so it was all free.

My feet, I thought the lighting was ill.

View of the bubble.

The frontman Will, he's kind of dreamy.

View inside the bubble.

T's finger.

MTV interns and homies, Robin & Mike. They know us on a first name basis, (that's how often we go to MTV events).

The line to get shit autographed was crazy long. Chicks were acting ridiculously groupie-ish for a semi-famous band. So we were just like to hell with it, got off and went to get more free Dr.Pepper.

Kevin, he's a looker too.

=]