Comical Hip Hop
>>>>>>>>>>>>HOOKEDUPB ©
(Up ‘N Coming ONLINE MAG)
Comical Hip Hop
Interviewee: Jordan York/ Young Roach
Here is an artist that is ‘different than the rest’, because he pokes fun at Hip Hop and calls it: Comical Hip Hop- a new genre!
His name by birth is Jordan York and his performing name is Young Roach, he is from Pittsburgh- New Kensington Pennsylvania. Young Roach started out just having fun with comedy and rap together. When people gave him an unexpected response (people think he’s funny) that lead him to take his Comical Hip Hop talents seriously. He is looking to publicize everywhere and not limit himself to Pittsburgh only at this time. Young Roach is planning a trip to Canada and would be honored to perform at venues, so making contacts with promoters and DJ’s in Canada is important. There are plenty of videos at: http://www.youtube.com/yongroach724 that you can view.
The newest ‘Official Video’ out is: Young Roach ft Rollie Fingaz- “Mid Grade” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cb0CiIpuJ_4 . It was released on the Youtube channel April 28, 2010 that has already accumulated 11, 294 views. It really is funny and entertaining- reminds me of the Beasty Boyz in a way. It was taped on the streets of Pittsburgh.
Young Roach and HOOKEDUPB spoke on the phone to bring you this interesting interview about- what he has done, and what he’s going to do:
How long have you been doing comical Hip Hop for?
About a year! Basically, how I got started was from a producer who found me: Rollie Fingaz…I was just doing it for fun and I got good feedback, so I started putting money into it.
Do you ever get compared to Weird Al Yankovic?
Ya, I get compared to a lot of people- ya Weird Al, and a lot of people say I’m kinda different like the Ol School guys like Easy E or anybody who is Old School. I usually do songs that have laidback beats- you know that type.
You’re signed to indie record label Zu Ken Records, how many people are involved?
We have about 10- 15 artists on the label- shout outs to Rollie Fingaz he’s the CEO of the interdependent label. The Young Roach and Zu Ken Records movement has really picked up lately.
Are you a big part of the Pittsburgh underground music scene?
Ya I am a part of the Pittsburgh scene… but I have a lot of people who follow me in Canada. That’s why I am so excited to have the interview with you- I told every one about your mag…people in Pittsburgh tend to hate a lot too! I’m honestly trying to broaden my horizons and get out of Pittsburgh.
When did you decide to take this seriously and push your work so hard?
Ah… Basically when I met my producer Rollie Fingaz six months ago. I was just having fun with it, and than I started to network with people, and got good feedback; so I started to invest in it and it took off!
What is some of the things you have done recently or in the past that we can take a listen to now?
There’s a song that blew- up: “Mid Grade” on my Youtube channel and, it’s on Nukeknockaco – a DJ in Pittsburgh runs Nuke knocka Radio! I was Featured on his show that got a lot of good feedback, I went on their show- its an Internet radio show. And I was eventually featured on the front of his website!
Have you ever done a “Spoof” of a mainstream artists videos or songs before or considered doing one?
Ah, I did a spoof of my own: “Figured Out You Cheated” you see I sing on it, and I’m not really a singer- and people liked it. There’s a skit it did too: “The breath In” Skit. In the skit I preached about living life in the moment. You can see it on my Youtube Channel too!
What is the most memorable show you have done in the past?
Probably my first show at Club 21(it was Club Heat than) I didn’t know what to expect… We killed it! I even had a professional photographer come- it was big deal. People loved it, and that’s around the time it just took off!
What comes to mind when I say these two things:
-Blow up doll (in reference to the picture on Reverbnation lol)?
Something I don’t want to have over night! That was joke with my girlfriend; I told my girl I cheated on her that night with that blow up doll (lol).
-Tiger Woods?
Tiger Woods!! I got called Tiger Woods cause I look like Tiger lol. It’s funny you should say that actually, I have a bobble head Tiger woods.. and its funny how he is one of the most scandalous people around right now lol.. ya some people say I look like him!
In what point will you drop the young from your name?
When I’m old enough too, and ‘cause I’m only 20 right now! I have few more drinks to have, and a couple more gray hairs to grow!
Where do you plan on going in the next year (what are your plans)?
I’m working on a comedy web show with a label in California; also we are currently working out record deal possibilities with them too. I’m in the making, so I don’t really want to get signed just yet! I am doing fine as an independent artist. I am taking caution cause I’m only 20. Um, I have a mixtape coming out called: “Ham and Apple Juice” kinda making fun of: Wiz Khalifa- “Kush and Orange Juice” album. That will be released on tv after American Idol in the fall.
Shout Outs?
-Rollie Fingaz
-J-Pod
-Junior Maf
-New Kensington Pennsylvania
-Dan Crooks
-I met Juvi Dizzle (HOOKEDUPB-“Underground Track for June 2010”) on the Internet and he referred me to you!
-Anyone that has been showing me love, and anyone who has been following me!
Contact Jordan York/ Young Roach:
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/youngroachyeezy
Youtube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/yongroach724
Reverbnation: http://www.reverbnation.com/youngroach
Facebook Group: Young Roach
>>>>>>>>>>U HOOKED?
Original post on HOOKEDUPB MAG FB:
https://www.facebook.com/notes/hookedupb-mag/comical-hip-hop/423003752392Downsview Park- Canada Day
>>>>>>>>>>HOOKEDUPB ©
(Up ‘N Coming ONLINE MAG)
Downsview Park- Canada Day
Downsview Park (Toronto) holds a Canada Day Celebration on July 1st with all the thrills and rides for the family for free; this event ran from 11am to 11pm. Not only was it the making of the 143rd Canada Day its also HOOKEDUPB MAG 2nd birthday as well. For two years HOOKEDUPB chose to go over to Downsview Park to enjoy the evening of fireworks. Downsview Park’s Canada day is one of the biggest city events that keeps getting bigger! This year there was more bouncy castles, more rides, more people, and of course a colorful firework show.
WE ARE CANADIAN EH EH!!
>>>>>>>>>>U HOOKED?
Original post on HOOKEDUPB MAG FB: https://www.facebook.com/notes/hookedupb-mag/downsview-park-canada-day/419152237392
Its That Neu Sh!t
>>>>>>>>>HOOKEDUPB©
(Up ‘n Coming ONLINE MAG)
Its That Neu Sh!t
Interviewee: neu
I’m excited to present to you neu, an up and coming artist based out of Vancouver BC. An extremely talented guy with a winning strategy, neu is set to take the Techno/ Pop music industry by storm with innovative ideas and undeniable talent. He has recently let the world in on what he has been up to the past 8- 9 months with the release of the neu music volumes 1, 2 and the compilation - EP. You can find the album on iTunes download, his website (www.theneumusic.com) and on USB sticks available for purchase online! neu got my initial attention with his never done before, short film showcasing him, and his music in a dramatic way. The short film (available on www.theneumusic.com or YouTube) looks like a movie trailer and tells the story about two brothers “who once stood together” and are now battling for control of a secret weapon - music. neu and I recently linked up on the phone to do an interview and learn miter about the artist and what's ahead...
You are so innovative, where did you get this winning strategy?
neu: I've gone to a lot of live shows and seen a lot of great DJ's. But I find a lot of the DJ’s just stand up behind a laptop, no chorus or words. I love electronic music, I like dance and pop, so I took the best parts of DJ music and Dance music and fused them together. I made as many tracks that I could, about 150 and than cut it down to just six for this record.
It seems to me that you are a “born star”, who gets the credit for noticing your talent first?
neu: I'm far from a born star haha, the first time I played music was when I was about five or six years old, but my teachers told me "this isn't for you". I said "screw that". I guess my family was the most supportive of my music. I have a really supportive family, my brother introduced me to a lot of good music, I was in a band. My family got me doing new things, that’s how I went about it.
When most artists decide to create an album they already have a lot of songs and beats to use- how did you pick what material to use?
neu: I try to make a beat a day, and had about 150 of them. I picked the ones I really liked and played them for other people; my friends, manager, strangers. If they told me it sucked, I would normally, not always, listen. With this kind of music you spend a lot of time secluded from the world in the studio. But it is really good to have people listen to it. They can say what is good and what needs improvement; its awesome to have a second opinion.
You were well prepared and organized for the new release of the EP, had a successful release party, and your music is ready for iTunes download- how long did it take you to put it all together?
neu: It took a long f$@king time! Haha. I started working on and writing for this album in 2008 - that’s when I made my first song in this genre. My record label Hub Vibes got involved and helped me pick which songs to focus on. Most of those (songs) are the ones I ended up releasing.
The record took, about 18 months to complete.
Did you “get your head bashed in by some thugs”?
neu: Haha, no not really. I came up with the concept when I was walking down the street and recorded it on my old shitty cell phone. About 18 months later I made a beat that fit perfectly with it. I wrote the a story around the chorus then. The inspiration for my lyrics comes from all over the place!
“The neu music - Short Film” is a hi-grade, original idea. Were you nervous about the idea or did you know it would be a hit?
neu: As soon as I played the idea out with the director (movie director), we knew it was a good, new idea. It took a while to film and but it worked out- really well I think!
Now that the album is out on iTunes and your website, what’s next?
neu: Just promoting the album and booking shows- that’s what I will be doing all summer! Of course, I am continuing to write music, make beats and keep connected online in prep for the next album, but I'm also producing some cool stuff for some other great artists.
You play a variety of instruments, were did you learn to play so many?
neu: Ya, that’s my hobby, learning new instruments! I go to the store and just walk around and pick one randomly, normally the ones that look the most interesting. Then I teach myself to play. That’s how I learned to play the Didgeridoo and I’m learning to play the Harp and Banjo. I try to pick a new one every year.
There are many genres of music why did you decide to express your self through Techno/ Pop?
neu: I like Dance and Pop because I think they are in a cool spot that is ready for advancement. I thought it would be better if people could sing along and dance to the music, rather than one or the other. Bridging the gap with catchy choruses that people like to sing along to and a song that they will remember and dance to - I think that's the best way to do it.
Last comments?
neu: Watch the short film and buy the album at www.theneumusic.com! I'm always on the site, Facebook and Twitter so don't be shy to chat me up!
CONTACT NEU:
Website:
Facebook Group:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/the-neu-music/349535678248?ref=ts
Twitter:
http://www.twitter.com/theneumusic
>>>>>>>>>>>U HOOKED?
Original post on HOOKEDUPB MAG FB: https://www.facebook.com/notes/hookedupb-mag/its-that-neu-sht/417016157392
Underground Track for June 2010!!
>>>>>>>>>HOOKEDUPB©
(Up ‘n Coming ONLINE MAG)
Underground Track for June 2010!!
Who:
Juvi- "What You Know Bout Juvi"
Place:
Toronto Onario
Genre:
Rap
Youtube Link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZrVqvmGCLA
>>>>>>>>>U HOOKED?
Original post on HOOKEDUPB MAG FB:
https://www.facebook.com/notes/hookedupb-mag/underground-track-for-june-2010/416030062392
The Raw and Uncut
>>>>>>>>>>HOOKEDUPB ©
(Up N Coming ONLINE MAG)
The Raw and Uncut
Interviewee: Dre Specz
Dre Specz isn’t new to the Rap game; he has lived in, and rapped in, different areas of Toronto throughout the years. Although, faithful to and most known in the Scarborough area. What is new is that he decided to do a solo project- a big step forward becoming independent and putting more focus on himself as an artist. Trials and tribulations are a common factor in the Hip Hop/ Urban Lifestyle- but he isn’t giving up and spits real passages from experience. He has been increasing the number of shows he does, and finishing up his mixtape(s). Interested in performing in Toronto and surrounding areas to promote his new Hardcore Rap mixtape, along with building his new Rap group. Humble and focused he came out to tell us what really is “snap, crackle, and poppin”. Here’s, the long anticipated interview with Dre Specz:
When did you realize that you wanted to take the rap game serious?
I’d say I was 15 or 16…I was listening to a lot of rappers and I started to do it! Because I was going through a lot of crap back than and could relate.
What keeps you going knowing that there are many other artists striving to get the same thing you are (fame, fortune, power)?
I think at the end of the day we all saying the same things in a different way. Basically if fame happens great- but I’m here to get my point across the way I want, and do what I like- rapping! Power will come with the respect and fame.
Most people know you from BLACK CITY (Toronto Rap group), currently you are doing a solo project- what are the pros and cons that come with this?
Pros are:
-You don’t have to listen to other peoples ideas- you can do your own thing
-Get to pick and choose what track and beats you use
-You can drift away and do other things independently- so your not just that guy from that group
Cons:
No cons- not really, if you think about it- it’s just you standing away from the group.
You’ve been doing shows recently; what is it that you like best about performing live?
I like to see people at the shows bopping their heads- it means they are listening. I like that! It’s kinda like an addiction for me...
When you choose a beat for a track or mixtape how do you judge the quality or better yet what are the standards that you go by for picking them?
BEATS, beats I’m picky with beats. Any beat I pick is going to have that 90’s vibe to it- I’m stuck on the 90’s. I like that real Hip Hop feel to it…I don’t really like all that auto tune and garbage!
If you could only pick three out of the six important “industry helpers” (list below), that an artist needs to be successful, what would they be, and why?
· Promoter
· Graphic designer
· Photographer
· Manager
· Street Team
· Radio link
Promoter- because you cant make it by yourself. Definitely need someone to help you. No man is an island!
Manager- because they hear about stuff that you don’t. They help you get booked for shows and stuff like that.
Street Team- basically, two hands are better than one! It’s easier to get product all over the city than it is by yourself.
One of my favorites tracks/videos of yours are “Show and Prove” (youtube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PR79enmAT0w), and the newest release “Hip Hop Aint Dead” (youtube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEEQ8TlrTNQ&NR=1) will your new stuff be just as raw and uncut, or are you going for a different style?
Definitely raw and uncut!! I like to keep truth in it. You know the “Show and Prove” track has a lot of truth and subliminal truth in it. If you don’t like or understand that track/video your just not a hip hop head PERIOD!
Actually after the mixtape is released (end of July 2010), I’m just going to keep it moving- and start on the next one…
What can we expect from Dre Specz in the near future (projects, events)?
Actually, coming next is the mixtape release party at the end of July 2010 (I’ll be performing that night). Look out for my new group called- First Cavalry, some of the artists are: Jae Banko, Keylow, Tha Mighty Atlas, Cliffy the Mobsta (incarcerated), And Look out for the next mixtape titled- "Fundamentals From Mental after" "Show N Prove" drops at the end of July!
Who is featured on the ‘tape?
Jae Banko, Tha Mighty Atlas, Tommy Spitz, Risky G, Kurse Dre, Dre Barrs, West Diamond and more
Shout outs/ last comments?
Yeh ,I wanna big up all my First Cavalry souljahs FREE CLIFFY THA MOBSTA!, free my brother shivaz , Free Krooks, my black city niggas, tommy spitz and the whole GCP, Kinsmuv, West Diamond and Bascrom, SMW (spark madness warriors), Dre Barrs, M3G/GSC, MNL (Money N Loyalty) Risky G, Kurse dre, Stretch diesel ,also big up Remembering Amnesia, STR888 FIAAA, and any Canadian rapper that’s gettin it in, provin that hip hop aint dead it lives in the north!... and one more thing... "SHOW N PROVE" IS COMMIN VERY SOON…LOOK OUT FOR THAT!!!
CONTACT DRE SPECZ:
http://www.facebook.com/drespecz
Myspace
http://www.myspace.com/speczdasolo
Reverbnation
http://www.reverbnation.com/drespecz
>>>>>>>>>>>U HOOKED?
Original post on HOOKEDUPB MAG FB:
https://www.facebook.com/notes/hookedupb-mag/the-raw-and-uncut/416339077392
Beats, Breaks, and Culture @ Harbourfront Centre
>>>>>>>>>>HOOKEDUPB ©
(Up ‘N Coming ONLINE MAG)
Beats, Breaks, and Culture @ Harbourfront Centre
Beats, Breaks, and Culture was held at the Toronto Harbourfront Centre July, 9- 11, 2010 it appreciates the Hip Hop Culture and its contributions to the world of art forms plus it’s a fun free family event. We decided to go on July 10, 2010- the 7th annual celebration; with a great variety of food, and kiosks selling: clothing, accessories, comics, and jewelry. Not to mention, all the things to do: from free haircuts to a Play Station Tent to Wu: The Story of the Wu- Tang Clan film to live performances EST. For us, one of the main attractions of this event was the Pop, Lock, and Load (B-Boy/ B-Girl competitions), the other attraction was probably the evening concert with Rakim (July 10, 2010- which we didn’t end up staying for).
Walking around the centre there was much to do and so many people to meet; we had the pleasure of getting a personal magic show from a man handing out Posters for Disney: The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (Out: July 14, 2010). Two of the kids made stickers and colored pictures than played at the Sony Play Station Tent equipped with the latest games. Another memorable moment was meeting Shaun Bolden (Author) and Dino Diaz (illustrator) of: BP (BeanPie) COMICS!! It’s the release of the first issue; this awesome comic is $5 and the BP COMIC table is in front of the RedPath stage where the B-Boy/ B-Girl kicked off July 10, 2010.
The Pop, Lock, and Load Competitions were hosted by: Benzo D from Bag of Tricks crew. Spinning the vibes was DJ Serious and there were of course three experienced judges to rate the B-Boy/ B-Girl crews in a Round Robin. This is a two day event semi finals July 10, 2010 and the Finals July 11, 2010 @ 2:30pm. Some of the crews that stood out were: F.A.M, Natural Flow, Saiko Skamatics, Team Unity, and Concrete Poets who entertained the crowd with crazy Break Dance moves. Ultimately the final judgment on which crew gains the most points and who will win the $800 prize is on July 11, 2010 at the finals. It’s a great event to bring the family for the day by the waterfront and take pictures enjoy the sun with dance/ music.
_________________________________________________________________________
Harbourfront Centre Website:
http://www.harbourfrontcentre.com/
More photos from this event available at:
FB- Lyttle Redz
Contact BeanPie Comics:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Beanpie/105520597838?ref=ts&v=wall
>>>>>>>>>>>U HOOKED?
Original post on HOOKEDUPB MAG FB: