Emilio Rojas - Maybach Music II Freestyle

After appearing on two new tracks yesterday Emilio Rojas isn't slowing down as rips this cinematic J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League production to shreds. Breaking Point coming soon.


Download: Emilio Rojas - Maybach Music II Freestyle

Neako - 2SS (prod. D.Champ & Neako)

Here's some new heat from Newark, NJ's NeakO off his upcoming project The Number 23 dropping September 12th. I've been listening to NeakO for awhile now and can't wait to hear the full project because his music is sounding more focused and on point than ever before. Props to Lowkey.


Download: Neako - 2SS (prod. D.Champ & neako)

Project Pat & Juicy J - Pills, Weed & Pussy (prod. Lex Luger)

Old friends Project Pat & Juicy J join forces to pen a proper tribute to the trippy holy trinity.


Download: Project Pat & Juicy J - Pills, Weed & Pussy (prod. Lex Luger)

Security Ruins Fans' Meet & Great With Lil Wayne (Video)

Well it's not a meet & great in the traditional sense, this is more like a high school or college aged kid, almost definitely blackout drunk from chugging vodka out of a water bottle getting on stage and trying to run up to Lil Tunechi. This scenario has gotta be a concert security guy's dream come true because you now have every right to pummel this helpless guy like Terry Tate in the office. I think the crowd's reaction might be as funny as the hit itself.

The-Dream - 1977 (Free LP)

Terius Nash aka The-Dream just released this new project to the masses for free to hold fans over till his new album The Love IV: Diary Of A Madman hits stores. Enjoy!

Download: The-Dream - 1977 (Free LP)

Epic Meal Time Alert: Epic Chicken Burger Combo (Video)

They're baaaaaaack. The lords of Epic Meal Time strike again this time creating something I can't even begin to describe but as usual looks fucking epic and delicious.

CyHi The Prynce - Jack of all Trades (Mixtape)

When I saw this pop up online I figured it had to be a compilation tape consisting of old tracks to catch people up. But fortunately I was wrong as CyHi releases a brand new mixtape out of nowhere for our listening pleasure.

Download: CyHi The Prynce - Jack Of All Trades (Mixtape)

Wale - That Way f. Jeremih & Rick Ross (Official Video)

Wale's MMG debut Ambition drops 11-1-11.

Killa Kyleon - Make Me f. Jack Freeman (Official Video)

Here's a really well-shot, high quality video from Killa Kyleon, who's new mixtape Candy Paint and Texas Plates 2 drops September 1st.

Hollywood Floss - Stalker (prod. Brandun Deshay)

Hollywood FLOSS just let loose this dope leak off his upcoming, highly anticipated project One Fan At A Time which is set to drop September 22nd. Stay tuned for an exclusive interview with the H-town rapper coming soon...

" Stalker documents a story of a love crazed women who wont take NO for an answer," explains FLOSS, who weaves his story throughout the track, rapping, "Went on one date, matter fact yesterday/ Now my inbox got 30 messages to play." Serving as both an entertaining tale and a warning to those in search of love, the story of a woman over indulged in her emotions even leads FLOSS to get a "restraining order just in case." 

Download: Hollywood Floss - Stalker (prod. Brandun Deshay)

Tech Tuesday's With Ell_Ayy

What's goody folks? I am @bxLAxk and welcome to another edition of Tech Tuesdays right here in the Winner's Circle. Now, before I get into this I would just like to say I fully support our law enforcement and those who enforce laws fairly and for the right reason. Now that we have that taken care of, let's touch on the subject of those who don't necessarily keep things level. A recent trend within our society has been to whip out camera phones (or any other recording device for that matter) whenever those flashing lights zero onto your presence for self protection purposes. But as of late, this has become a double edged sword as officers tend to become immediately agitated by the sight and in some cases, even go as far as to arrest the individual for recording the scene/interaction, whether directly involved or not. This has caused much turmoil in the community as to whether or not Constitutional Rights are being violated on either side and as of today, it turns out there is. In what seems like one of the biggest wins for the people against Johnny Law himself within recent history *applauds*, it turns out that "[A] citizen's right to film government officials, including law enforcement officers, in the discharge of their duties in a public space is a basic, vital, and well-established liberty safeguarded by the First Ammendment." according to the US Court of Appeals for the First Circuit in Boston where a bystander was arrested for filming an incident in public. Although this is not a Supreme Court ruling (and believe me, it's only a matter of time before it does become one) which would etch this right across the States, it still gives the people a very strong and sturdy foundation to sit upon until such a thing happens. With that said, be sure to keep some space available on your videocamera and put it to good use whenever them boys (or girls) in blue set their sights upon you, after all, the highest law of our land (the Constitution for my cave dwellers) gives you the right to do so. Until next time, I bid you farewell. Peace.

Emilio Rojas - 100 Million Dreams f. Gilbere Forte

Here's a new track from Roc City's own Emilio Rojas featuring Philly native Gilbere Forte on the chorus (I wish he had to rap too). While I'm not crazy about Gilbere's hook Emilio makes up for it by going crazy on his verses like he's accustomed to as he gears up to release his newest project Breaking Point sponsored by Pharrell and partly Hov's clothing line Billionaire Boys Club.


Download: Emilio Rojas - 100 Million Dreams f. Gilbere Forte

STS - Cliche (Official Video)

Like a scene out of a movie, this generic frat party was looking dull as ever until Sugar Tongue Slim and his massive entourage hit the scene and turned it out in a big way. The video is perfect for this Knux produced banger off STS' newest offering The Illustrious.

Curren$y & The JETS Studio Session in Atlanta (Video)

This is exactly what I expected a JETS studio session to look like. Each person smoking a personal joint, Curren$y being hilarious as usual & the only question on anybody's mind being where to go get food afterwards. JETS fool...

Scotty & CyHi The Prynce Discuss "Summer Dreams, Their Collab "Turn My Mic Up" & More (Video)

High school classmates Scotty & CyHi The Prynce give some insight into their pasts as they discuss their friendship, inspirations growing up, CyHi's success & their collabration "Turn My Mic Up" which appeared on Scotty's breakout project Summer Dreams produced entirely by DJ Burn One.

Thee Tom Hardy, King Mez, Donny Goines, Emilio Rojas & STS - Posse Cut

What happens when you put Emilio Rojas, STS, King Mez, Donny Goines & Thee Tom Hardy all in one room?… A whole lot of rapping, that’s what. We did just that a few weeks ago when all of these artists just happened to be in 3 Little Digs HQ and a few hours later this song was the result… Enjoy.  - 3LittleDigs

Download: Thee Tom Hardy, King Mez, Donny Goines, Emilio Rojas & STS - Posse Cut

Timeless Truth - Irene f. Roc Marciano

While thankfully Irene didn't hit New York as hard as expected, Timeless Truth & Roc Marciano decided the storm was worthy of a song title. This song is definitely gritty enough to be the soundtrack to the provided artwork and I can't wait to start my day Saturday seeing Roc Marciano at Rock The Bells.


Download: Timeless Truth - Irene f. Roc Marciano

Define Jones, Mr NC Tiz & Lottaman - Prominence

Crown Town rappers Define Jones, Tiz and Lottaman present the first leak off their upcoming collaborative project Cassette Musiq. This song is jammin and I can't wait to hear what the trio has in store for the rest of the project cuz each rapper appears to be bringing their A game. 


Download: Define Jones, Tiz & Lottaman - Prominence




Previously: Define Jones - All I Need f. King Carter

Tinie Tempah - Till I'm Gone (Remix) f. Pusha T, Jim Jones & Wiz Khalifa

The Taylor Gang general previously appeared on the original version of this, now UK sensation Tinie Tempah recruits Pusha T & the Capo for the remix.


Download: Tinie Tempah - Till I'm Gone (Remix) f. Pusha T, Jim Jones & Wiz Khalifa

Pusha T - Feeling Myself f. Kevin Cossom (Official Video)

Miss Info got the drop on yet another set of visuals from the younger Thornton's solo mixtape Fear of God. Like the majority of songs on that tape this song is poppin and will also appear on Pusha's upcoming Fear Of God 2: Let Us Pray EP which drops September 27th.

Dee-1 - Never Clockin' Out!!

In honor of being featured in The Source's Unsigned Hype New Orleans up and comer Dee-1 blesses the fans with this heater dedicated the grind that got him this far. This guy's got serious skills and the heart and emotion in his delivery reminds me of why I first liked Pill when I heard 4075: The Refill.


Download: Dee-1 - Never Clockin' Out!!

The Cool Kids Speak With BlowHipHopTV (Video)

Chuck Inglish and Sir Michael Rocks took a couple minutes to chop it up with BlowHipHopTV at the Brooklyn Bowl and discuss the reasoning behind the album name, their label Cake, Chuck's producing technique and how their music differs from the rest of the pack.

Being cool has its pros and its cons but taking three years to put out your debut LP is the definition of not playing by anyone's rules. The Cool Kids laid back style may have some questioning their work ethic but there is an obvious method to the madness. Even without an album, Mikey Rocks and Chuck Inglish are two of the most marketable MCs in the game. With endorsements from Nike, Foot Locker, DC Shoes and a long list of other Fortune 500 co's, The Cool Kids have preserved their ethics by not bending to music label authorities while still being relevant in an ever changing music game. -BlowHipHopTV

Post-Prison DMX Freestyles In The Studio (Video)

If you don't know by now, DMX was arrested again since his celebrated release from prison at the end of June but it doesn't appear he'll do time for this one since it was for nothing... except speeding without a drivers license. This freestyle is awesome and exactly what fans hope to hear from X if and when he puts out some new material.

Dime Alert: IMF x Claudia Sampedro Photo Shoot (Video)

Thank you UrbanEverything and IMF Magazine for introducing us to Claudia Sampedro aka one of the hottest girls on the planet. NSFW

Claudia Sampedro is currently one of the hottest models out of Miami right now. Fortunate for us, we had a chance to hook up with her for an intimate photoshoot which led to seductive viral which was filmed and edited by creative director, Jahrue.

Yelawolf - No Hands (Official Video)

Here's the first set of visuals from Catfish Billy's debut album Radioactive which is finally set to drop September 27th. The video was inspired by Ubisoft's Driver: San Francisco and features Yela taking the real life Driver car for a spin around The Bay area.

Kendrick Lamar, Cory Gunz & CyHi The Prynce Raid Atlanta (Video)

Watch as 3 Little Digs follows Kendrick Lamar, Cory Gunz, & CyHi The Prynce as they took to Atalanta for a concert sponsored by The Jeanocide. Pill, SchoolBoy Q, Chaka Zulu & many more were all in attendance to show support at both the In-Store at “Fly Kix” and the actual concert at “The Loft” later that night.

J. Cole - Cole World: The Sideline Story (Artwork + Tracklist)

For this week's edition of Any Given Sunday Jermaine took to his twitter to unveil the official tracklist of his highly-anticipated debut album which hits stored September 27th.


1. Intro
2. Dollar And A Dream III
3. Can’t Get Enough f. Trey Songz
4. Lights Please
5. Interlude
6. Sideline Story
7. Mr. Nice Watch f. Jay-Z
8. Cole World
9. In the Morning f. Drake
10. Lost Ones
11. Nobody’s Perfect f. Missy Elliott
12. Never Told (prod. No I.D.)
13. Rise & Shine
14. God’s Gift
15. Breakdown
16. Cheer Up

JDP - Indian Summer f. C-Rich (Official Video)

Chicago up and comer JDP shot me this new video for "Indian Summer" off his latest offering, Where Anything Goes V.2, which is available now. For those of you just starting school or a new job, between the vibe of the song and the accompanying video it's like stepping in a time machine taking you back to the heart of summer for 3:44. You may have never heard of JDP before like I hadn't, but this is good music and is definitely worth a listen. Chi-town stand up!

Good Reads 8.28.11

Ayo this big ghosts carter iv review son...  [Big Ghost Chronicles]

Kendrick Lamar - Music Box - 8/19/11  [LA Weekly]

Review: Rock The Bells Gazes Back While Looking Ahead  [LA Times]

Live: Danny Brown Seizes The Moment At The Rap Yard  [Village Voice]

The Biggest Conspiracy Theories and strangest rumors in sports history  [Bleacher Report]

The 20 Most Anticipated College Football Games of 2011  [COED]

50 Biggest Badasses in NBA History  [Bleacher Report]

6 People Who Single Handedly Screwed Entire Economies  [Cracked]

Nas - The Lost Albums: Complete Series (6 Volumes)

This collection is a Nas' fans DREAM COME TRUE. If you ask Hip-Hop heads, "Who is the greatest rapper of all-time?", Nas is the most common answer you'll get. He dropped Illmatic in 1994, arguably the greatest Hip-Hop album, and has released 9 studio LP's since (if you include the wonderful The Lost Tapes) and 3 more collaboration albums (The Firm, Distant Relatives, QB's Finest).

After nearly 20 years in the game, Nas has also amassed quite a collection of underground material, unreleased tracks, and rare songs from soundtracks and compilations. Most of these songs are the quality we have come to expect from Nas. However, unless they've scoured the internet for rare tracks, many big fans of Mr. Jones have been missing out on a lot of true gems from their favorite rapper. And some of these tracks are nothing short of outstanding.

To download 1, 2 or all 6 volumes (like I just did) head over to RealHipHopHead

In Front Of A Train? Ya Think? - Review of Game's "The R.E.D. Album"

      He’s baaaaaaack. Well, kind of. Between claiming that we should “throw Rihanna in front of a
fucking train” and that Bruno Mars is gayer than awould-be-astronaut N’SYNC member, Game certainly isn’t holding anything back on The R.E.D. Album. O ya, I guess at some point he dropped the “The” in front of his name because in the words of another N’SYNC member “it’s cleaner.” If you don’t get that reference then you’ve been locked up in a closet for the past year. If you don’t get why Game’s newest release is equally as unforgettable then you’re probably in the same situation. Wait. What’s that? Game hasn’t been in a serious conversation about the future of Hip-Hop since 2008? Could have fooled me.
       If you’ve stumbled upon this release, then you’ve been given the lucky chance to decipher one of the more complex 2011 releases. Between his beef with 50 and subsequent separation with producer Dr. Dre, Game has always been mentioned with some of the stalwarts of Hip-Hop. The R.E.D. Album see’s him returning to that status. Dre is back behind the boards, but you probably already knew that. What you didn’t know was that this records HITS…hard. Give Game credit for digging up one of the better supporting casts since The Departed. He certainly didn’t make this album by himself, but it has to be a testament to Game’s credibility that he can bring in the talent he does to essentially co-star on this record. “Martians Vs. Goblins” drips with so much venom that it sounds like Eminem left it off The Slim Shady LP because it was too offensive. I guess that’s what you get when you let Tyler the Creator on your track. The synthesizers are so sinister that you can almost see the RZA pissing in his Timberlands.
       Game swears that the title isn’t a monument to his gang-banging past and you’re somewhat inclined to believe him. He certainly made his retirement from hip-hop public, and the record is good enough to believe that it’s the culminating effort of his rededication. The problem has always been, Game has just been on the second tier of rappers. When he asserts that your top five is “Game, Biggie, probably Hov, Pac, Nas,” it’s hard not to chuckle. But it’s also hard not believe, seconds earlier, that Game’s claim that he’s as hard as your top ten favorites isn’t somewhat reasonable. There are high points and low points to the album. Couple that with the fact that his release won’t spawn any hits and you have to believe this won’t be on anyone’s best of 2011 list. But the high points are certainly very, very high. As previously mentioned, the Game/Tyler the Creator/Wayne collaboration might just be one of the best tracks of the year. “The City” isn’t half bad itself and neither is “Born in the Trap”. And, surprise, “Good Girls Go Bad” ft. Drake is a super hypocritical shit storm which pretty much showcases the former crooning in his signature MTV pop dream key.

      This is an album which re-enforces stereotypes. Go look at a track/guest feature/producer list. If you like one of the artists included on the track then you’ll probably enjoy it. And don’t expect innovation. Pretty much everyone on The R.E.D. Album does what they know best. That makes some of the album great, some of it terrible, and some of it pretty O.K. But I guarantee you, there’s something for every Hip-Hop fan to like on this release, and if you don’t find anything, you’re probably trying just a bit too hard.

- Marshman

Rating (in grams): 2.5/5

Young Jeezy & Freddie Gibbs - Do It For You (Official Video)

In this Decatur Dan directed video, Jeezy and his signee Gangsta Gibbs pay homage to their friends sitting behind bars. Seriously though Freddie Gibbs stays murking the Snowman on these collabs his verse here is impeccable.

Juicy J - Make Money (Official Video)

Juicy shows off his fleet of cars in the most civil music video he's put out in awhile. But nevertheless...We Trippy Mane!!

Curren$y - Smoke Sum'n (Remix) f. Lil Wayne

Looks like the old Young Money running mates re-united on wax recently and the result is this track which was supposed to appear on Verde Terrace, but according to Spitta, "pain meds is a muh fugga" Jets fool...

So last time I was in the Chi, Lil Wayne was also in the chi… We chopped it bout funny ass old shit and serious new shit… Told him I was workin on #VerdeTerrace wit @DJDRAMA… Sent homie the “Elevators” instrumental… Broke my ankle a wk later… finally checked my email 2day and guess what??… See yall at 4:20. At 4:20 we drag another chair out to the #VerdeTerrace make a seat for my long lost homeboy…

Download: Curren$y - Smoke Sum'n (Remix) f. Lil Wayne

Fabolous - Sicker Than Yo Average f. Red Cafe & Trey Songz

After being premiered by DJ Clue last night here's the CDQ of Fab's new single off his upcoming Loso's Way 2.


Download: Fabolous - Sicker Than Yo Average f. Red Cafe & Trey Songz

Big K.R.I.T. - The Vent (Official Video)

The last song on easily one of the best projects of 2011, Young Krizzle's Return Of 4eva, gets the visual treatment. Krit's debut album Live From The Underground is set to drop September 27th.

K. Sparks - Special f. Tina Quallo

"Here is another song from my up coming Album "Diagnosis: Success" that will be Presented By DJ Booth and available for Free Download Sept 19th. This song features Tina Quallo and is Produced By Kurser" -K. Sparks

Download: K. Sparks - Special f. Tina Quallo

Kris Kasanova - Just Anotha Day (Official Video)

Kris Kasanova takes us through a day in the life of his native Brooklyn in true storytelling fashion which seems like a long lost art these days. This kid is dope.

Hell Rell - Real N!!ga Nation

Not only is Ruga Rell one of the best interviews in hip hop but all these years later and he's still making the music that made us love Dipset in the first place. This has inspired me to find some of Rell's funniest interviews which I've posted for your enjoyment after the jump.


Download: Hell Rell - Real N!!ga Nation

Watch Katt Williams Get Into A Fight At A Young Jeezy Show (Video)

Katt Williams (yes, that Katt Williams) somehow got involved in a fight that broke out in the pit backstage at a recent Jeezy concert. You only need to watch the first 3:00 of this video and the best part about it has to be the fact that since it was behind Jeezy, he had no idea it was going on and unknowingly played the perfect soundtrack for the brawl. Spotted at 2DBZ.

Mac Miller - Cold Feet

Still on his quest to a million twitter followers Mac Miller just liberated this song in honor of reaching 800k. This beat, provided by famed Lil B collaborator Clams Casino, is absolute bananas and Mac does hit best to keep up with it, dropping some pretty nice punchlines along with way. Blue Slide Park coming soon.


Download: Mac Miller - Cold Feet

Game Freestyle On Cosmic Kev Radio (Video)

While in Philly, Jayceon stopped by DJ Cosmic Kev's The Come Up Show and spit a fiery couple verses over Meek Mill's "In My Bad" as he continues to promote his new cd The R.E.D. Album which is in stores now.

Raekwon Reflects On "Verbal Intercourse", Respect For Nas (Video)

The Chef discusses how the now legendary collab with Nas went down and the friendship they developed despite being from different parts of New York. This is today's history class right here.

Smoke DZA - Personal Party f. Curren$y

DZA just dropped this via twitter to let us know that if you're gonna smoke with Spitta & George Kush you better bring your own because it's a Personal Party. This cut will appear on Smoke's debut album Rolling Stoned out August 30th.


Download: Smoke DZA - Personal Party f. Curren$y

Asher Roth - Ampersand (prod. Blended Babies)

Rawth just let this one loose on his tumblr in what he called "today's rainy day release". Fit with a laid back, soulful backdrop from Blended Babies, Ash sinks in seemingly rhyming every other word making it perfect for your next rainy day, indoor smoke sesh.


Download: Asher Roth - Ampersand (prod. blended babies)

Tef Poe - The Preview EP

Tef Poe, friend of the Winner's Circle and proud leader of both The Force & Footklan (check the blogroll) just sent over a free EP to prepare us all for what he's got in store for the future. Check out the alternate artwork and an interview with Poebama along fellow Force members Rockwell Knuckles & Nato Caliph after the jump...

For the last couple of months I have locked myself in the studio working on 3 projects at once. We are now proud to announce that we are currently applying the finishing touches to War Machine 2 and The David Ruffin Theory (Tef Poe x Rockwell Knuckles EP).During the course of this process I have released a few new songs and freestyles to feed the public's hunger for new music from Tef Poe. I am working on a freestyle mixtape w/ DJ Trackstar titled "Power Over Everything" which was slated to be released this month. I have decided to push  P.O.E. back for a few more weeks even though the project is primarily finished. Myself and DJ Trackstar are perfectionist and would like to fine tune a few things. Fortunately I am currently sitting on nearly two albums worth of new music. Tech Supreme and myself have decided to release "The Preview" which is basically a sneak peak at War Machine 2. Some of these songs may or may not make the final cut for the War Machine 2 LP . I simply hope you enjoy it.

"Power Over Everything"   listening party this Friday Aug 26th at The Gramophone w/ Family Affair and Rockwell Knuckles.

Download: Tef Poe - The Preview EP

Skyzoo - Wikipedia Rap

For the 6th and final installment of the Penny Freestyle Series, Sky rocks over the infamous Lupe "Failure" beat that Drake also killed on one his early mixtapes Comeback Season. Skyzoo will also be re-releasing his latest mixtape The Great Debator: Revisited on August 30th exclusively on iTunes with four bonus tracks and to celebrate he'll be performing at the Apple Store in Soho on the 30th so if you reside in the New York area you might want to mark that down on your calender. You can download the series in its entirety below as well.


Download: Skyzoo - Wikipedia Rap




Bonus: Skyzoo - The Penny Freestyle Series: Complete Collection

Omen - Ride For Life

Chicago's Omen lets loose another self-produced quickstrike to hold fans over till he drops his new mixtape Afraid Of Heights on Halloween.


Download: Omen - Ride For Life

Matthew Ragazino & Action Bronson - Jordan vs. Bird

Action Bronson has been everywhere lately and as I've stated before anything new from Bronsolino is welcome in the Winner's Circle. Here he and Matt Ragazino trade bars in a manner that would make Jadakiss & Styles P proud off Matt's upcoming project Rhyme Pays.


Download: Matthew Ragazino & Action Bronson - Jordan vs. Bird

Are You Watching The Throne? Review of Jay-Z & Kanye's "Watch The Throne"

So far, I think I've done a pretty decent job with this site considering my lack of experience as a writer/journalist. But I know my limits and when it came time to think about record reviews, I knew I had to call in a ringer. Allow me to formally introduce you to Marshall aka the man voted Player Hater of the Year three years running (he's currently campaigning for his fourth title). Despite wanting to pimp-slap him every time I see him for no justifiable reason, he happens to be a great writer and is one of the more knowledgeable hip hop heads I've ever met. He will hopefully continue doing reviews for the Winner's Circle on a somewhat regular basis so follow him and get familiar...
 

      At this point, I think it’s safe to say that both Hova and Yeezy have secured their place in the annals of Hip Hop lore. It’s pretty hard then to wrap your head around a collaboration between two of Hip Hop’s all time greats who are themselves coming off monster solo releases. While The Blueprint 3 may not have received the critical warmth that some of Hov’s earlier releases garnered, it was an absolute blockbuster. Jay Z has the second most number 1 albums of all time, of any artist, ever. You know the only act that has more? The Beatles, the Fucking Beatles. Hova is literally the second most chart topping artist behind the greatest musical group ever to have lived. Kanye, on the other hand, is coming off of what is perhaps his best critically reviewed release to date, and that’s saying a lot considering this is the same guy that put out College Dropout, Late Registration, and Graduation. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t want this article to turn into a hype session, I just think it’s important to quantify just how big these two rappers are.

     It’s impressive that two stars could pull a collaboration of this magnitude off. But then again, there really aren’t any other superstars with the relationship that Jay-Z and Kanye West have. The one thing that no one has to worry about are the beats this duo brings to Watch the Throne. Between Kanye’s absolutely precise ear, the laundry list of world class producers getting credit on the album, and the duo’s willingness to spend exorbitant amounts of money on samples (see “Otis”) this is a pretty finely tuned production, even if there isn’t a totally coherent strand linking all the tracks together. Some critics, and it’s not hard to see why, have argued that the only theme connecting this collection of songs together is the über luxurious lifestyle that is detailed on nearly every track. Instead of thinking of this as a negative, I tend to think that this is one of the album’s strengths. Though some have argued it makes Watch the Throne entirely inaccessible (Kanye may even say this himself: “You aint been through as many customs as I’ve been” )it’s no more so than a Wu Tang record filled with their uniquely Staten Island Kung-Fu pantheon or a Young Jeezy production in which he details moving literal truck loads of crack. Rapping about life’s excesses is one of the pair’s true gifts and there just isn’t anyone else in the game today that does it like this pair.

     The one negative that could be said about the album is that, when two giant’s like this collide, it’s hard to keep their massively successful solo styles from clashing occasionally. Watch the Throne is a DOPE record, but let’s be honest with ourselves. Upon first listen it’s immediately clear that it just isn’t as good of a disc as a whole as the genre bending Dark Fantasy and it won’t spawn the mega hits that the The Blueprint 3 did, and that’s o.k. It’s pretty clear that Hova and Yeezy are just two good friends having fun (see the Blades of Glory samples on “Niggas in Paris”) and making a few cool millions in the process. Essentially Watch the Throne is a very highly polished rap record with two of the game’s giants proving why they’re sitting on the throne of hip-hop: top notch rhymes, absolute fire beats, and the ability to command an entire music scene just by goofing around, doing what they do best.

- Marshman

Rating (in grams): 3.5/5

Nike SB Texture Tour: Milan and the adriatic coast (video)

On Nike SB’s most recent Texture Tour, the latest locale for the sponsored team is in Milan and the beautiful Adriatic Coast. A series of Italian skaters including Jacopo Carozzi, Daniel Lebron, Luca Doneddu, Luca Crestani, Mauro Caruso, Maxime Géronzi and Marco Lambertucci all featured prominently in the four-minute clip.

Spotted at Hypebeast

Game Does Interview With CBS, Tries His Best To Take It Seriously (Video)

Along with firing unwarranted shots at Jay-Z and getting into a shouting match in the middle of the street Jayceon found another shameless way to promote The R.E.D. Album by doing an interview with CBS and as you can expect there are some hilarious moments. The best quotable might be from the awkward girl giving the interview when she says his album is out now on 'Myspace'.

Project Pat & Juicy J - Kelly Green (Official Video)

These videos from Juicy J get more and more outrageous every time but like with South Park & Curb Your Enthusiasm we keep tuning in for more anyway. Highlights here include Project Pat holding the same blunt and Grey Goose bottle the whole time, random dude smoking a blunt on the toilet & Juicy ironing while smoking and drinking Gin the whole time. This video proves two things for sure: ignorance is bliss and of course...We Trippy Mane!!

Jabee - Beautiful Day (Remix) f. XV

We haven't heard anything new from Vizzy in a minute and he makes sure to leave his mark on this jam from Oklahoma City up and comer Jabee's project Lucky Me.


Download: Jabee - Beautiful Day (Remix) f. XV

Action Bronson & Smoke DZA - Big Bad Dangerous

According to The Smoker's Club there's a new WWF style tag team in town consisting of George Kush & Action Bronsolini (pictured above) and the earthquake yesterday was actually a result of them. This song is bananas as DZA continues to build hype towards the release date of his debut Rolling Stoned out August 30th.


Download: Action Bronson & Smoke DZA - Big Bad Dangerous

Armani White - He's Only 16!? (Official Video)

I've never heard of Armani White before but I saw this in the inbox today and after giving it a listen I knew I had to share it with the Winner's Circle. This kid is only 16 and sounds like a hybrid of Cory Gunz & Lil B in the best possible way.

Armani White, A 16 year old west philadelphia kid who gave up on fitting in with the repeated "swaggers" and styles everyone around him portrayed. Being stated, he took his talent and carved his own path towards success expresses his mind through Music and Poetic Rhythms, he intends and on making an impact on the music industry as well as the world with the help of his group of "Legends". The #LegendBound family spreads a different flavor of lyrics to the table with a mindset M.O; You Can't Live Your Dreams Until You Wake Up. His Demo/Mixtape Is Set To Release In September/October.

Download: Armani White - He's Only 16!?

Kendrick Lamar - ADHD (Official Video)

Hova's new site Life + Times and Rocksmith present the visuals for one of if not my favorite (depending on the day, what kind of weed i'm smoking, etc) song from Kendrick's latest offering Section.80...

Inspired by "A.D.H.D."s dark beat and melancholy lyrics which explore a generation in conflict, we find Kendrick Lamar in a video that illustrates the songs universal and age-old theme of apathetic youth.

Shot in New York City during the sweltering July Summer heat, "A.D.H.D" is the third video to be released from Kendrick Lamar's debut album "Section.80".

Phonte - Not Here Anymore f. Elzhi (prod. 9th Wonder)

Two thirds of Little Brother and Detroit's Elzhi form like Voltron for the soulful first single off Tay's upcoming solo effort Charity Starts At Home.


Download: Phonte - Not Here Anymore f. Elzhi (prod. 9th Wonder)

Killa Kyleon - Bodies Hit The Floor f. Bun B (prod. Lex Luger)

Killa Kyleon just let loose this Lex Luger produced, Bun B featured burner off his upcoming mixtape Candy Paints & Texas Plates which is finally set to drop September 1st. #RunIt


Download: Killa Kyleon - Bodies Hit The Floor f. Bun B (prod. Lex Luger)

Tech Tuesdays With Ell_Ayy

What's goody folks? @bxLAxk back on the scene to do a lot showing with a little bit of telling on this quakey Tech Tuesday.
First up, I bring to you phenomenal gameplay footage of my most anticipated shooter of the year: Battlefield 3. Wanna know what real Modern Warfare looks like? Well hit play and be amazed.



Next on the list is the return of the ever so long running franchise of Need for Speed. This time around they trade the hot black asphalt for the wintery snow filled mountains to bring back that adrenaline pumping feel of all your favorite cars. Maybe this is what Swizzy meant when he said he was chillin in his Beemah?



Sequels, how I love thee, especially when it's to one of my favorite sand box games this generation has birthed: Prototype. Basically, the best way to describe this game is Spiderman with the power of the Hulk running rampant in NYC from hell. If you missed the first game, don't fret, this trailer will bring you right up to speed so you can get your chaos on when the second one drops.



Last but not least, what better way to go out then to do so with a slice, and a dice from one of the greatest and most consistent fighters , Soulcaliber V


I hope y'all enjoyed this edition of Tech Tuesdays. Until next time, I bid you farewell. Peace.

Co$$ - Leimart Park (prod. Exile)

And you thought Dom Kennedy was the only one putting on for Leimart Park...

LRG Clothing Co x Dirty Science will present Exile’s Intro To The Outro Mixtape as a free download on August 31st, 2011. The mixtape features all Exile production that covers key songs in Exile’s lengthy catalogue while featuring brand new exclusive material never heard before. The list of exclusives include new music featuring MF Doom, Bun B, Blu, Fashawn, Aloe Blacc, Dag Savage (Johaz & Exile), Co$$ and others. LRG will be distributing the physical mixtapes for free at Rock the Bells so make sure to stop by their booth in each city.

Download: Co$$ - Leimart Park (prod. Exile)

STS - The Illustrious (Free Album)

It takes a lot for project to overshadow a new Curren$y mixtape and Money Making Jam Boys' STS has just effectively done that with the release of his debut album (which he's giving away for free). Sugar Tongue Slim has been one of my favorite up and coming rappers ever since I heard his Demand More 2 mixtape over a year ago and once your done listening to Verde Terrace I highly recommend you give this a shot.

Recorded in Atlanta's legendary Tree Sound Studios, The Illustrious is a culmination of years of mastering words, music and lifestyle. "Illustrious is the way I want people to feel when they hear my music. It's how I feel. Every occasion, every location, every ensemble in my wardrobe, but more importantly my music is illustrious." To insure the proper picture is painted, STS gathered up some of hip-hop's best to provide backdrops for him make his statements. They include SKI BEATZ (Jay-Z, Camp-Lo, Curren$y), ALCHEMIST (Nas, Linkin Park), WILL POWER (YelaWolf, Wiz Khalifa) and The Knux (B.O.B).

Download: STS - The Illustrious
 

NeakO - Flossin f. Juicy J (Official Video)

Old school, meet new school. This certified banger will appear on NeakO's upcoming project The Number 23 which is set to drop September 12th...We Trippy Mane!!

YOBi - Set In Stone (Remix) f. French Montana, Jadakiss & Styles P

I have no idea what a YOBi is but she recruits French Montana to lend a verse for the remix of "Set In Stone" which already featured Al Qaeda Jada & The Ghost. French Montana has always been a hit or miss rapper with me but I like what he brought to the table here.


Download: YOBi - Set In Stone (remix) f. french montana, jadakiss & styles p

Dream Urban Presents : Kendrick Lamar Experience 8-19-11 (Video)

Here's the official footage of Kendrick's recent show at The Music Box in Hollywood courtesy of the homie Jason from Dream Urban.

Southern California based streetwear company Dream Urban hosted the Kendrick Lamar concert which has got the internet buzzing. If you haven't heard, the sold out show at The Music Box in Hollywood, CA was an epic night for west coast hip hop. Beside the fact that ticket holders got to see Casey Veggies and Schoolboy Q, (who are also from Los Angeles) Kendrick Lamar performed in front of his home crowd for the first time after releasing his successful mix-tape Section.80. Ab-Soul and Jay Rock (also from the TDE camp) performed a few verses as well. Other artists such as Big Sean, Mos Def, Talib Kweli, Kurupt, joined Kendrick on stage but did not perform. They were there to support and witness the torch being passed down to Kendrick Lamar. Snoop Dogg and The Game along with all the other west coast rappers acknowledged that the new king of the west coast hip-hop scene had arrived and they were ready and willing to give up the throne. The biggest names in west coast hip-hop, including Dr. Dre were in attendance and praised the 24yr old Compton native for his lyrical godliness and all celebrated his homecoming on stage. Honestly, there isn't anyone more deserving. 

Curren$y - Verde Terrace (Mixtape)

One day we may very well find out that Curren$y is in fact the first prototype of joint smoking, rhyme saying robots because Spitta simply doesn't stop. He's always on the road touring yet somehow finds the time to put out an unfathomable amount of QUALITY projects each year. While his album Weekend At Burnie's is still in constant rotation one can never have enough new Spitta. Without further ado here's Curren$y's new mixtape Verde Terrace hosted by the one and only DJ Drama aka The Block Obama. Jets fool...

Download: Curren$y - Verde Terrace (Mixtape)

Freddie Gibbs On Moving From Gary, IN to LA (Video)

Freddie Gibbs says he's out to tell the story of Gary, Indiana, his former hometown and cradle of the “underdogs of america.” Forever shaped by that environment but afraid of getting stuck—both career-wise and in his own head—Gibbs moved to LA. But that’s old news. Here’s a look at what’s to come and an introduction to the sidekick star he’s taking along with him.  - The Fader

Smoke DZA - 4 Loko f. ASAP Rocky (Official Video)

The audio dropped last week, now here's the video off DZA's debut album Rolling Stoned, out August 30th. Harlem stand up!

Kendrick Lamar - Hail Mary Freestyle (Video)

During an interview with Bootleg Kev the new King of LA was put on the spot and effortlessly spits a divine freestyle over Tupac's classic "Hail Mary' instrumental. This guy is in the midst of the best run since Wiz Khalifa so clap for him!

OVO Fest 2011 (Video)

Some official footage of the 2nd Annual OVO Fest in Toronto. Cameos from Nas, The Weeknd, J. Cole, Lil Wayne and more.  -2DBZ

GLC - I Know Who You Pimped Last Summer (Mixtape)

Chicago veteran and Kanye's G.O.O.D Music affiliate just dropped a new mixtape out of the blue with one of the best titles we've seen in a while. With features from the likes of the almighty Tef Poe, Bun B, Sir Michael Rocks, Kendrick Lamar & Boldy James this tape is not to be slept on and unlike Consequence I doubt GLC will be taking shots at The Throne.

Download: GLC - I Know Who You Pimped Last Summer (Mixtape)

Shawn Chrystopher - Til We Get There

Shawn Chrystopher just dropped the latest leak off his upcoming Silent Films For The Blind, where it looks like we'll see Shawn further testing the boundaries of what can be considered a rap song. This cut that he co-produced is soft as a Kleenex but like most of his music is feel good and catchy.


Download: Shawn Chrystopher - Til We Get There

Live Music Alert: CyHi The Prynce Live in Charleston, SC 9.2.11

My man Sci Phoenix, founder of Starsity Graphics and creator of the Winner's Circle logo, just sent me some info hip hop heads in the Southeast may want to know about. On Friday, September 2nd G.O.O.D. Music's CyHi The Prynce will be doing a show at the Music Farm in Charleston, SC with opening acts Nellz & Fargo, Hollywood Troy & Supa Kali. Tickets are $18 in advance and there are a limited amount of VIP tickets left for a cool $35. Get your tickets here.

Royce Da 5'9'' - Writer's Block f. Eminem (Official Video)

The Primo remix kicks in around halfway through. Nickel Nine's Success Is Certain is in stores now.

Uncle Murda - Warning (Remix) f. French Montana, Jadakiss, Styles P, Jim Jones, Cam'ron & Vado

Without the help of DJ Khaled, Uncle Murda (still might be the g.o.a.t. rap name) enlists damn near half of New York for this remix...no complaints here.


Download: Uncle Murda - Warning (Remix)

Good Reads 8.21.11

Mobb Deep Explains "The Infamous" Effect On Rap", Havoc Crowns Prodigy "The Best"  [HipHopDX]


Big Ghost Reviews The Game's "R.E.D. Album"  [Big Ghost Chronicles]


Even Hybrids Hit 30: Danny Brown's "XXX"  [Passion of the Weiss]


Wooping With E-40 at the Gathering of the Juggalos  [MTVHive]
 

Live: Hoodie Allen Fills Webster Hall to the Brim, Drinks It In  [Village Voice]


30 Luckiest and Unluckiest Moments In Sports  [Bleacher Report]


Full Court Press: How One Pick Clipped The Atlanta Hawks' Wings  [Smoking Section]


10 of the Most Brutal Facebook Ownings  [Guyism]


The 7 Most Terrifying Pirates From History  [Cracked]

Machine Gun Kelly Arrested For Organizing Flash Mob In Cleveland (Video)

Accoding to AllHipHop:

Cleveland rapper Machine Gun Kelly was arrested for organizing a flash mob in Strongsville, Ohio, as artists continue to experiment with the power of their twitter accounts.

Machine Gun Kelly was one of hundreds of people who attended the event at Southpark Centre, which is located about 20 miles from Cleveland.

The rapper, known for his energetic performances, organized a 5:00 PM event on Saturday night (August 20th) using his Twitter account.


According to reports, Machine Gun Kelly was arrested for misdemeanor disorderly conduct, after he refused to get off a table.

“If havin fun with my fans and bringing the rage back to my hometown means I have to be arrested…then keep pullin the cuffs out,” machine gun Kelly said on a posting on Facebook.

Machine Gun Kelly recently inked a deal with Sean “Diddy” Combs' Bad Boy Entertainment.

The incident comes after Cleveland city Council vetoed a bill that makes it illegal to promote flash mobs using social media.

Just last week, Compton California rapper game was almost charged with a crime for inciting a “telephone flash mob,” after he tweeted the number to the Compton Sheriff's Department.

Kendrick Lamar Brings Out Snoop, Game, Mos Def & Talib Kweli, Performs HiiiPower (Video)

During Kendrick's show, presented by the good folks at Dream Urban, last night at the Hollywood Music Box he brought out a whole slew of legends to watch Kendrick perform his jam "HiiiPower". Two things I must note after watching this 1) Snoop's dance moves are hilarious 2) Game proclaiming he's "as controversial as Pac was" smh Pac was shooting cops not tweeting their phone numbers buddy. UPDATE: More high-quality footage added below.

Sir Michael Rocks - Cell Dope

The video dropped earlier this week and demand was so high for the mp3 that Mikey finally released it on twitter. Enjoy.


Download: Sir Michael Rocks - Cell Dope

Young Jeezy & Freddie Gibbs - Rough

Mr Miyagi and Daniel Son let another banger loose off Jeezy's upcoming mixtape The Real Is Back 2. If this song were titled anything else I still would have said it was Rough.


Download: Young Jeezy & Freddie Gibbs - Rough

Big K.R.I.T. & Yelawolf In The Studio Recording "Happy Birthday Hip Hop" (Video)

3 Little Digs was on hand to capture footage of Yela & Krizzle's first time in the studio together recording "Happy Birthday Hip Hop". These guys make it clear that they're both huge fans of each others music so hopefully the fabled Country Cousins mixtape actually happens.

Yonas - I Need A Dollar (Remix)

One of my favorite up and coming artists Yonas is apparently a big fan (like me) of How To Make It In America and in anticipation of the upcoming second season delivers his own rendition of Aloe Blacc's amazing theme song.


Download: Yonas - I Need A Dollar (Remix)

Emilio Rojas - I'ma Boss Freestyle

The pride and joy of Roc City, NY makes Meek Mill & Rozay's "I'ma Boss" instrumental his own. Look out for Emilio's new project Breaking Point, presented by everyone's favorite brand they can't afford Billionaire Boys Club, coming soon.


Download: Emilio Rojas - I'ma Boss Freestyle

The Weeknd - Thursday (Mixtape)

The enigma that is Toronto R&B sensation The Weeknd just released his extremely highly-anticipated follow-up to his breakout opus House Of Balloons. Even if R&B isn't your cup of tea you may want to at least give it a brief listen because this is what everyone will be talking about the next couple weeks.




Download: The Weeknd - Thursday (Mixtape)

Mac Miller - Frick Park Market (Official Video)

Mr Best Day Ever just released the visuals for the first single off his debut album Blue Slide Park. I still need to listen a few more times before making any judgements.