SKINNYMAN’S DOING BIG TINGS WITH NEW LP
Since the release of his debut album ‘Council Estate Of The Mind’, Skinnyman has been laying the competition out cold. In his first two weeks he out sold Mobb Deep and Shyne’s albums, and managed to get his next single 'No Big Ting' C-listed on Radio 1. "The album's flying", emcee and Lowlife label owner Braintax told us. "All in all it's the biggest project we've done and it's turning heads at major labels, who are busy wishing their own 'urban' acts could do so well. Once again an independent label is having to develop acts and show the industry who's really got the talent". 'No Big Ting' is out September 13.

http://www.selfdestructmusic.com/councilestateofc.html
http://www.lowliferecords.co.uk

SUPPORT THOSE SUPPORTING HOMEGROWN TALENT!
The UMA celebrates 100% British based urban music culture with 100% of UMA acts nominated by the public and voted for strictly by the public. Nominees include TY, Klashnekoff, Skinnyman, Estelle, Floetry, Joss Stone, Wiley, Durrty Doogz, 1xtra's Ras Kwame and The Jump Off Crew just to name a few. You also still have time to submit music to enter the UK Nationwide Best Unsigned Act Category by sending them to: UMAs (Unsigned Dept.), 203 Mare Studios, London. E8 3QE. The awards take place on November 9 at The Barbican in London and to vote for your favourite acts click on the URL below.

http://www.urbanmusicawards.net
http://www.barbican.org.uk

BLADE SHARPS THINGS FOR HIS RETURN
Blade is back after some time away, with a new single due in October/ November. The untitled track features Glasgow native Respek BA and Life from Phi Life Cypher, and by way of highlighting the forthcoming release Blade is giving producers the chance to remix a track which will feature either on his next album or on a B-side, all depending on the quality of the end results. All you have to do is go to the link below and remix 'Rink' a track, which featured on Blade's last album. For more details go to the site below.

http://www.blade691.com

TY TO RELEASE DOWNLOAD SINGLE
Check out TY’s new single, ‘Look 4 Me’ via the net. Your downloadable goodie includes a radio edit of the single, a bonus track ‘Sophisiticated & Coarse’ and an exclusive video of TY and his band performing ‘Look 4 Me’ live at the Montreux Festival which took place earlier this year. To get your copy hit the link below.

http://downloads.7digital.com/downloads/ty/default.asp?partner=135

BLAK TWANG WELCOMES EVERYONE TO ‘THE ROTTON CLUB’
After releasing ‘The Kik Off’ and being nominated for best international album by The Source in September 2003, fans would be forgiven for believing one of South London’s most famous sons, Blak Twang, had disappeared of the face of the planet. Well nothing could be further from the truth. “I’ve been busy truss”, a smiling Taipanic informed The State recently. “I co-hosted a TV lifestyle show that will go out in six countries across Africa, I’ve been touring in places like Montego Bay and Casablanca. I’ve been good!” Twang’s new project ‘The Rotton Club’, partly showcased at Radio 1xtra’s live session earlier this year, was due for release this summer, but had to be pushed back. ”I’d recorded in JA and New York and was ready to go, but I wasn’t happy with the quality of the final mix of the album. So I decided do it over, hence the delay.” Featured on the album are rapper and production newcomer K9, reggae sing-jay Aldorosie, female emceeing sensation Mirco, who some may remember was Fallacy’s hype-person, and with a little luck Def Jam’s Terri Walker. “Time will tell whether that works out or not, but we’re trying”, offers an optimistic Taipanic. Expect a prelude to the album in the form of ‘Solider’, ‘Beef Club’ and current underground favourite ‘GCSE’, and look out for some other bubbling projects. “I’m gonna do a mixtape before the album’s out, and I’m putting together a label Rottenous Records, with K9 first in line for a release.” Barring any more setbacks ‘The Rotton Club’ should be released early autumn.

http://www.blaktwang.net

ESTELLE READIES NEXT SINGLE
Even with her recent number fourteen chart placing in the Top 40, Estelle isn’t slowing down. Last Wednesday (July 28) saw an all-star cast of some of the UK’s finest turn up for cameo duties on the set of her follow up single ‘Free’. The video sees Estelle delivering her lyrics from a podium Malcolm X style. Then So Solid's Mega Man steps up to the podium dressed in a sharp suit and tie, wearing Malcolm X style glasses. The star-studded cameo appearances come care of Terri Walker, Jaimeson, Beverley Knight, Taz, Shystie, Ms Dynamite, TY, Blak Twang, JD, Lemar and John Legend who also plays piano on the track. 'Free' is out September 27, which also features a remix from Hi Tek and Talib Kweli. Estelle’s debut album ‘18th Letter’ is released October 18.

http://www.stellarents.com

FALLACY MAKES A LOW-KEY RETURN VIA 1XTRA
If you were listening to Rodney P & Skitz’ show on 1xtra last Friday (Aug 13), you might have heard the return of Fallacy on a track called ‘We Love’. The track produced by Future Cuts is the first song to feature Fallacy’s vocals since his disappearance from the scene a little over a year ago, and while it isn’t on the same par as his previous work, it’s a solid return and does indicate the possibility of a return from the former Virgin recording artist. Only time will tell and The State will keep you updated.

'HIP HOP DON'T STOP' LIVE TOUR WITH... KELIS, MISSY ELIOTT & TALIB KWELI
Kelis will be joined by Missy Elliot and Talib Kweli for the 'Hip Hop - Don't Stop' UK tour in June. The tour will kick off at Wembley Arena on 19th June, followed by the Manchester MEN on 20th June, the Glasgow SECC on 21st June before the final UK show at the Birmingham NEC on 22nd June and continue with dates in France, Holland, Belgium and Eire.

Tickets are on sale: Credit card hotline: 0870 602 1101 and online at www.meanfiddler.com
Saturday 19th June London - Wembley Arena. 0870 060 0870
Sunday 20th June Manchester - MEN Arena 0870 190 8000
Monday 21st June Glasgow - SECC. 0870 040 4000
Tuesday 22nd June Birmingham - NEC. 0840 909 4133

http://www.kelis.co.uk

WANNABATTLE RECORDS LINKS WITH MYSTRO
Main-Flow's single "She Likes Me" went to #1 in US college charts this week. Check out www.brickrecords.com for the release information for Main-Flow of Mood's hot solo album "Hip Hopulation"... it features an exclusive collaboration song called "Mr Know-It-All" with the British rapper Mystro, which was made partly in UK studios, and engineered by the British producer and engineer - Dama James. Nicci Cheeks Management arranged and organized this collaboration and the recording of the UK parts. Mystro will in turn have a collaboration song with Main-Flow on his forthcoming debut album. "She Likes Me" is also featured on the album "Nicci Cheeks Presents HipHop Love Soul" (Fat City Recordings). We can't wait to c.

MOORISH DELTA 7 VIDEO SHOOT
The video shoot for Moorish Delta’s first single from their sophomore release 'Welcome to the Underworld’, takes place at Lakeside Country Club, Lifford Lane, Kings Norton, Birmingham on May 28. Guests coming through to make an appearance include Tubby T, Wolftown Committee, The Shotcallers, Royalists and Yogi among others. Advanced tickets are priced £7 and £10 on the night.
Info: 07901 597 224

mailto:seven_entertainment@yahoo.com

MOORISH DELTA 7 READY NEW LP
It's been almost 18 months since the release of their acclaimed debut 'The Power & The Glory', but finally one of our favourite groups Moorish Delta, is back and soon to release their follow up 'Welcome to the Underworld'. The question is can the trio of Cipher Jewels, Malik and Jawar replicate the critical success of their first album? "Our growth since then has been real natural," MD7’s unofficial leading figure, Cipher, recently told The State. "We’re confident that the material that we got, is what people need and want to hear right now. I’m feeling very positive about the new album." Production duties are undertaken by Cipher, Urban Monk, Baby J, and there are guest MC appearances by Big V, Adante and the introspective lyricism of Yogi. And how was the process of recording again as a group? "We got that chemistry popping off again", Cipher enthusiastically offers. "Each of us is comfortable with our style and how they blend together. We have just done our thing". 'Welcome to the Underworld' is due in July.

mailto:seven_entertainment@yahoo.com

BE AN EXTRA IN BLADE’S NEW VIDEO
One of the UK’s most respected hip hop artists Blade will be filming his show at Concorde 2 in May, and he wants his fans to be part of the event. "The documentary is being filmed by Indelible TV for Channel 4", Blade told The State from the road. "They approached me about doing a programme on me. So they’ll be filming the show in Brighton, as well as us filming the video for my next single ‘Reflection’, which will be released later this year." Filming takes place on May 13 at Concorde 2 in Brighton. Doors open at 9pm and tickets are £6. Head down and be part of it!

http://www.blade691.com
http://www.concorde2.co.uk

FINGATHING & THE BIG RED NEBULA BAND TOUR
Fingathing are back and swinging into action. Not only is their third album 'Fingathing & The Big Red Nebula Band' out now in all good record emporiums and via Grand Central, but the lads are pleased to announce this weekend marks the start of their UK tour...

Friday (14th May) takes in the sights and sounds of Bristol, with Fingathing headlining the VENN Indoor Festival at Lakota. Running from 9-5, and featuring loads of different artists from all different backgrounds, Fingathing will take to the stage at about 2a.m. to blow you all away! Get there early and join the party.

Then its down to London for the Friends & Family Special at Cargo on Saturday (15th May).
Doors open 3pm - 10.30pm, and it is the 'Fingathing & The Big Red Nebula Band' LP Launch Party, so do not miss. Featuring FINGATHING live, plus DJ set from AIM.

The full UK tour, plus international dates and festivals, is at Fingathing.com

GUTTA RECORDS!!! RELEASE RESCHEDULE!!!
The 'Focused' EP from Verses willL be droppin' on GUTTA RECORDS but it's release has been pushed back from February to later on in the year!
The next release on GUTTA RECORDS will be Gutta's own album, 'Bludgeoned' - 12 Self Produced no fuckin about hard tracks which WILL drop in April!
The 'BUY' option on the guttahiphop site will be completed soon so keep checking back to cop this shit!

http://www.guttahiphop.co.uk

BRITISH WORK IN PROGRESS...
Throughout Feb. Braintax will be locked in the studio putting the finishing touches on a brand new project involving Kashmere the Iguana Man and Verb T. A whole album's worth of material is being polished off with Braintax behind the boards plus a couple of beats from Ghost from the Breakin' Bread stable. This shit is fresh and should see the light of day around the start of April.

Meanwhile, SkinnyMan is putting the finishing touches to his album and believe it sounds HEAVY! And rumour has it that Asaviour has some ridiculously dope new shit so watch this space...

http://www.lowliferecords.co.uk

NEWS FROM PHI LIFE CYPHER
Phi-Life Cypher - 'Higher Forces' Album. Luton town's hardest working Hip Hoppers, PLC, have just dropped their second album. Featuring MCs Life, Si-Phili and guest rapper Skit Slam on vocals, DJ Nappa on production duties, and Mr Thing on Cuts. The LP has had some great feedback so far... gaining 4/5 in The Independent on Sunday(!) "Phi-Life Cypher are one of the best rap acts that weve got!"... "Phi-Life Cypher have got blistering rhymes and real, uncut hip hop to the core. This record is about to take them skyward." Undercover Magazine... "Unwavering, untamed but thoroughly intelligent, Phi-Life Cypher remain committed to reflecting the streets, but in a manner that is compelling, clear-eyed and articulate. They capture the finest elements of contemporary UK rap." The Voice. The album is out now - so go support! By the way, they'll be playin' in Berne on 06.02.04...

CAPPO - GRAND FINAL 12"
Cappo - Grand Final 12" Release Nottingham's favourite son, Capps, is back with a vengeance. 'Grand Final' (produced by The P Brothers) is out now and banging! The b side features a remix of 'Learn To Be Strong' by Tru Thoughts' Quantic Soul Orchestra - a heavy funk work out with some banging drums and of course Cappo blessing the mic. Out now. More info on www.zebratrafic.co.uk.

NEW ALBUM BY BLADE OUT SOON
A new album from one of the UK’s original MC’s is released 8th March 2004. Blade has spent more than 10 years battling the industry as both independent operator and as part of a major. In 2000 Blade hooked up with long time Blade fan, Mark B to make what has become one of the defining UK rap albums ever. ‘The Unknown’ (Source/Virgin) quickly sold thousands and brought Blades name into the mainstream. During 2001 the pair opened for Eminem and saw their re-mixed single, ‘Ya Don’t See The Signs’ go into the top 20 followed by appearances on Top Of The Pops and Never Mind the Buzzcocks. Lyrically and musically Blade is still on point, ‘Pop Idol’ is self-explanatory but ‘Slapping Egos’ and ‘Keep On Running’ reveal a side to the Blade story which hasn’t been revealed before. There’s humour, pathos, frustration and anger all wrapped up on an album that dares to stand on it’s own. Musically and lyrically it takes issue with much of the over-marketed and formulaic major label rap that’s shoved down our throats at the moment. ‘Storms Are Brewing’ is perhaps the most complete musical statement Blade has made yet!

EST'ELLE SIGNED
Est'elle is pleased to announce that she has signed a multi album deal with J-Did/V2 Records. Stellarents, the label she set up in 2003, is also part of the deal and all tracks will be released on V2/J-Did/Stellarents. The first single will be in May, with a second to follow in August, and an album early September. J-Did MD Jamie Binns comments, "The reason I signed Estelle is because she is the hardest working, most focused, talented singer/songwriter/MC I have ever known. She has an amazing star quality and a determination to win that is parallel to my own."

Est'elle comments, "I am so pleased to be signing to J-Did/V2 as they will allow me the freedom to be an artist and to grow without being constricted to whatever people and labels think I'm about. I'm glad I held out for the best deal - the one that works for me."

As Music Week comments this year, "she will be huge".

THE UNDERCOVER MAGAZINE 2003 POLL
In a backlash against all the other awards going down in a disorganised and biased manner, we at Undercover thought it best to use our ever-growing medium to cut to the chase: WHO ARE YOU REALLY FEELING? Feel free to be completely honest, not only in your choice of artists, but also in your comments too. If you’re not sure, just leave whatever bits blank. All Entries must be received by January 31st. To make your vote visit the website. More...

TY RELEASE NEWS
Look out for the release of the kicking track that appeared on Future Music CD featuring TY and shortMAN called 'Free Vibrations In The Vicinity' ...coming out real soon.. Also 'Oh You Want More' Remix featuring Roots Manuva. OUT Feb/March

TY WINS TITLES
Ty as won the Best Artist 2003 on 'The Jump Off 2003 Round-Up' on Itch FM last Saturday, reasons for his triumph were described by The Furious as being, 'for the work put in on the stunning album, killer live shows and guest appearances such as on Bone Idols 'Keep On' ...So, many congratulations, and big thanks to Ty for the amazing work... More

Ty was also successful over at the BBC. Y our votes made Ty place in the WW All Winners Albums of the Year for 2003 More.

THE RETURN OF BLADE
Just writing now to tell you that Blade is on the come back on his own!!! He has a 12" out right now on the re-juvinated 691 Influential label, which even features some production from C-Swing. This is definitely a positive move away from the clutches of Mark B and early 2004 will see the release of his new album!! Take it from me if you liked the old stuff you will fall in love with his new works. Blade is returning and will dominate the charts if he is given the chance.

NEWS FROM NOTTINGHAM BRONX
The Heavy Bronx Experience Album - “Live Hardcore worldwide part 2” (The Best of the Heavy Bronx Experience) is released on January 2nd 2004. This is a compilation Album of tracks taken from all 5 limited edition volumes of the P Brothers Heavy Bronx Experience EP’s that are now deleted. Compiled together with bonus material which includes some previously unreleased tracks and also live performances. 

The Zulu Beat Mixtape - The Zulu Beat mix is also released on January 2nd 2004. This is a dedication to Afrika Islam’s original Hip-Hop radio show which ran from 1983-1985. The mix stays true to the original format of the show, which mixed together early rap records from that period together with a heavy selection of beats being cut-up for the b-boys who would be tuning in. The P Brothers dedication mix is hosted by Donald D who was the MC on the original Zulu-beat radio show, and also features some contributions from surprise guests on the check in!

New P Brothers 12”. - Look out for a brand new double A sided 12” taken from the P Brothers forthcoming debut LP called “The Castle”. On one side is “Crazy Man” featuring Cappo and on the other is “Across the planet” featuring Imam Thug from Queensbridge. The 12” will be in stores in February 2004. For more information check out www.heavybronx.com

THE FUTURE IS DELAYED AGAIN
Rodney P (Riddim Killa) has let us know that his debut solo album will not be hitting the stores until March 2004. That's what he told us this time last year about March 2003... so let's keep our fingers crossed harder this time. Mystro has been in the studio a couple of weeks ago with Rodney recording a collabo track with Rodney to be added to the project. Meanwhile Rodney P fans can check him out on the new Next Men album "Get Over It" (Scenario Records). Rodney is featured on the current single "Firewalking" and it's got a wicked animated video which is doing serious time on MTV right now.

TY DUN DIDDIT AGAIN
Rapper TY is "Killin It" over in Europe right now with his new album out now on Big Dada. Nicci was fortunate to catch up with TY when they both had a gig in Edinburgh, Scotland and his live show is amazing. The album is big news folks. The current single "Wait A Minute" features an exclusive Dwele remix on the CD. So get your pennies out and make your way to Woolies to get hold of "Upward"!
+ TY albums are available to buy on http://www.amazon.co.uk

ROOTS MANUVA HOME AT LAST
Roots Manuva is no longer suffering under the pressures of record label bidding wars. He has set up a special label situation with Big Dada/Ninja Tune and you'll be glad to know that he's feeling great and working hard on his follow up album to his sophomore album "Run Come Save Me".
+ Roots Manuva albums are available to buy on http://www.amazon.co.uk

672 RECORDS SNEAK A SHEISTY SIGNING
We have heard that London based record label 672 Records have signed the female MC heard on the Mercury Prize winning Dizzee Rascal album. Her name is Miss Sheisty and she definitely lives up to her name (we had a listen to her demo). Her rendition of "I Luv U" is aight, but when it comes to the slower/'rapping' as opposed to the more 'UK Garage' style of MCing, well... in the words of Hov' - "What More Can I Say"? We'll let you make up your own minds once you get a listen. 

DARK N COLD MAKE SUMTHIN SPECIAL FOR THA LADIES
The UK's finest and baddest homegrown clothing and apparel company/chain have launched the first outfits from their new range for ladies. It is aptly titled "D'LADY" and so far you can get yourself head to toe in sweats, headgear and jackets. Congrats to DNC! Stores are located in Soho and Oxford Street in London. They also have mailorder online: http://www.darkncoldhiphop.com

ERYKA BADU AND 57TH DYNASTY!
Bet you never thought it'd happen Brixton Brothers rapping... Well you heard it here first. Listen for the release of the new Eryka Badu single feat. none other than Thunda Storm of the 57th Dynasty! And the beat goes on...

DOPEY CANADIAN TAKES DMC WORLD DJ TITLE
Another year another DMC Championships comes and goes, and there’s another new World champion. A crammed Brixton Academy witnessed Canadian DJ Dopey win the title from second place man Enferno from the USA, and the UK’s DJ Quest managed a third place position. Crowd favourite and last year’s UK champion, DJ Skully, failed to get a placing, but had a good time all the same. And a mention goes out to Killa Kela and guest Daniel Bedingfield, who managed to placate a hostile audience with their duel beat talents, which gave Mr Bedingfield and chance to showcase some new material. Find out how the other titles were decided by going to the DMC site.
http://www.dmcworld.com

CHANGE OF DATE FOR TY LP RELEASE
For all you Ty fans out there eagerly waiting for ‘Upwards’ to arrive at your local shop, its been put back a week to September 29. So if you go into your local CD or vinyl retailer and they don’t have it, don’t just leave! Ask for it by name, or place an order! And look out for Ty’s next single ‘Wait A Minute’ out October 6, and check out his the video!
http://www.tymusic.org

DJ MK FORTHCOMING RELEASE ON ILL FLAVA RECORDS
"Series" featuring Roots Manuva and Supa T, produced by MK himself is gonna be out on our streets in November. You can catch MK with the Mixologists, DJ Yoda and Harry Love at a special night at Cargo called "Live And Direct" on Wednesday 24th September. Info courtesy of MK Enterprises! Respekonize!

NICCI CHEEKS GIVEN OWN SOLO RADIO SHOW
Starting next week, Nicci Cheeks will be hosting her own show. After co-hosting the "No Fuss, No Rush" Show with Natural B for over a year now, she has been granted her own space for continuous ear 'Drum N Taste' bud pleasures for the dedicated listeners. For 1 hour - you will be treated to the realest music on earth, heard it here first kinda sh*t... holla! So - tune into Bassline 97.9FM next Tuesday and every Tuesday onwards from 11pm for the jump off of the "HipHop Love Soul" Show with Nicci Cheeks. ...

NEWS FROM THE UK ZULU NATION CHAPTER
We have busy rebuilding the UK Chapter and things are looking exciting for 2004 (which isn't as far off as it seems!). Firstly, the highly anticipated TJ Chill 'Cool Like Pacino' album is being put back for a 2004 release. Over 2/3 has been recorded. With recording taking place at Stanley House Studios and Abbey Road this is NOT a small project and as one of the prominent members of the UK Chapter, TJ has promised that Zulu Nation will be represented to the FULLEST on the album! To see the forthcoming video exclusively, check out www.februaryfilms.com and for more info on the forthcoming album check www.mapmusic.net. The UK Chapter has been picking up on its DJing activity so keep an eye out for flyers. We recently welcome DJ Chris B and DJ Fin to the UK Zulu funk family! We also welcome Ben Coxon who will be handling UK Zulu Nation bookings through Performance Agency. The new website is being planned, so by the New Year you will be able to get up to the minute news, merchandise, exclusive CDs and all that good UK Zulu stuff, including the full recordings of UK Fresh 86 amongst other Tru Skool and Nu Skool gems. Also Prem C and TJ Chill are developing a Zulu Nation radio show for Itch FM. Delays have occurred due to both presenters working on their albums but we will keep you updated with progress. We ask for your continued support as we will need it! So remember that PEACE, remember that LOVE but most of all, remember that UNITY!...
One Love...
DAPO (UK Zulu King) & the UK Chapter 

WALL OF SOUND BREAKOUT
We'd like to take this opportunity to tell you about the latest and best version of Breakout/Arkanoid on the internet, created especially to celebrate the Wall of Sounds 10th birthday of putting out wicked tunes. Listen to 10 years of trax from Röyksopp, Propellerheads, Blaktwang, Les Rythmes Digitales and loads more. 

Bring down the walls, get free mobile stuff - polyphonic / mono ringtones / logos / picture messages / colour backgrounds.

http://www.offthewallgame.co.uk

"BANGERS AND MASH" BY ROB LIFE
Rob Life has produced a dope mix CD called "Bangers and Mash" which features 31 UK hip hop classics from the late 80's thru to 2003. More details to follow on this, but advance copies can be bought at www.suspect-packages.com

SPOOKY NEWS FROM BREAKIN' BREAD...
After a couple of recent releases on 7” the label returns to the 12” format for a heavy Hip Hop release from a new artist, Ghost. Ghost is a well known figure on the independent hip hop scene. Originally hailing from Norwich he moved down to London in 2001 and became a familiar face at all the jams handing out remix CD’s. Ghost then became involved in the UK’s only dedicated hip hop radio station ITCH FM and secured his own show (The Midweek Session, Weds 8-10pm). He has always produced beats and being a head on the London scene allowed Ghost to make links with a number of labels and MC’s. This EP is the result of those links. Ghost is a very busy man…..he also featured recently in Undercover magazine (check the CD from the June 03 issue), gained airplay on 1Xtra (winning a demo competition, airplay from Excalibah), remixed a track for the Beats in Progress label (out late 03) and contributed tracks to the forthcoming release by Kashmere on Receptor Records. As if that isn’t enough, he also found time to moderate on forums for some of the UK Hip Hop websites out there. In fact, through these links he has gained airplay on Toronto crew, Circle Research’s Radio Show and Oakland’s Scratchlab Radio. Ghost Stories is a perfect release for Breakin Bread since the EP covers a wide range of styles. Like a Breakin Bread club night, this EP has something for everyone. Check out www.breakinbread.org for more info.

CHANNEL U - THE NEW BASE?
As we reported Channel U is making moves with regard to getting UK Hip Hop videos aired. Thunda, Paradise, and Charlie Parker of the 57th Dynasty represented recently at Channel U studios filming a few channel I-dents. Both Break Free and the classic Love Of Hip Hop have now been added to Channel U's playlist and are receiving rotation already!

TO VOTE FOR:
BREAK FREE -text 89800 with the number 505 (total cost £1) or call 09069 58 58 58 (75 p/m)
LOVE OF HIPHOP -text 89800 with the number 517 (total cost £1) or call 09069 58 58 58 (75 p/m)

LOOK FOR 57TH ACTIVITIES:
After the success of Vol.I- From Corner To Corner out now on: VHS/DVD Oshin Productions is putting the finishing touches on Independent Hype Vol.II for further info visit Independent Hype.

UNITS COMPILATION
Charlie Parker's Units Distribution is gearing up for the release of a collaboration / compilation LP feat. MCs and singers from the UK, US & France with production by Parker & Shineye (Watch No Face productions). As well as a full instrumental release of the Dynasty catalogue. WHOA! units@fasfwd.com +44 (0) 207 652 3882

JOHN THE WHITE RAPPER COLLABORATES WITH HARRY LOVE
New controversial young bean on the scene JTWR is following his debut white label effort "Backlash" featuring MCD from his label "The Dropout Club" with a track entitled "Make A Change" produced by the much in demand UK hiphop producer and turntablist ex-Scratch Perverts - HARRY LOVE. Catch it on all good hiphop shows to draw your own conclusions...

57TH DYNASTY: NOW ITS YOUR TURN
Well, here is your opportunity to take part in the forthcoming Documentary on the 57th Dynasty. Hopefully it will cover everything from beefs and rivalries to behind the scenes footage along with insight into how the world came to know them and why (after 6 years + of independent struggles and successes including a full page feature in the Source mag 03-03) it all seemed to just end. 

The unofficial statement of their rumoured break up, cites creative in-differences, internal conflict, monetary grievances and lack of industry support as reasons for the split. All members maintain that they will continue to produce music either solely independent or with other UK and US affiliates.

Here is where you come in. If you have any deep probing questions that you want answered just send it in. To an individual group member, or for the entire crew? Anything you wanted to know, just ask. Anything you might of once seen or heard about them- tell the world. We have been assured that the producers will read and filter through all reponses and use those questions that they agree "the world would want to know." 

Please send all responses to: EagleVisionUk@aol.com with 'UK Hiphop Band' in the subject box. E-mails will be accepted throughout September and possibly October 2003. Please include area you are contacting from (either borough, city, state, town, country, etc.)

DJ MAGAZINE DJ POLL…
DJ Magazine are asking for people to vote for their 5 favourite DJs - it's dead simple to do and the people who hipped me to this are suggesting your votes could help us spread the word about Peter Parker (of Fingathing)'s virtuoso skills!

There are three ways to vote:
1. By text message - Text the word "VOTE" and then the surname and initial of your top 5 DJs to 82200. Texts cost 25p + your standard network charge (normally no more than 12p).

2. On the DJ Magazine Website - Log onto: www.djmag.com and list your top 5 DJ's in order of preference.

3. Use the form in the latest issue of DJ Magazine.

Dont forget that cheeseheads like DJ Testies and Paul Van Dick usually win these things so do your bit to save the world from the curse of Euro Trance...VOTE PETER PARKER NOW!

REACHED ITS BREAKIN POINT
Bad news, after 6 years Breakin Point magazine is no more. Based in Birmingham this magazine was a great outlet for a multitude of talented journalists and creative artists to showcase their work and let the people know what's going on in the urban music scene... particularly in the UK. We'll miss ya! Thanks for all your support over the years.

CHANNEL U - THE NEW BASE?
The word is out. Channel U (URBAN) is surpassin MTV Base in street props. This channel plays all your favourite hiphop, r&b, UK garage and drum n bass videos new and old. There are also ringtones to buy, animations to watch and it's all up to you what you watch. If you don't like a video - just text them and tell them! If your opinion matches enough others, then it'll be taken off your screen. This channel is seriously representing homegrown talent too. We hope it is here to stay! For example: Midlands hiphop collective the Wolftown Committee's new video 'BOXED' is now showing on Channel U (Sky Digital Channel 467). To view it simply text 486 to 89800... Simple as!

JEHST DEBUT ALBUM OUT SOON…
Coming up on Low Life in October will be the debut LP from one of the best lyricists you've ever heard, the first single will be out in September with an accompanying video which looks sick! The LP is finished this week, it's dope of course but that's all we're giving away for now. For now you can get your hands on an exclusive 12" of the "Adventures In New Bohemia' (from the 'Food' LP) remixes all produced by Jehst, the Proper Boh! mix sees Jehst ride a new beat with the original lyrics and The Remix features all new lyrics from Jehst plus Asaviour and Yungun. Get it now, one month before release! www.lowliferecords.co.uk

COACHES FROM ENGLAND TO BOTY...
Mick aka Blue Eyes will put organise coaches that drive from England to Braunschweig for the International Battle of the Year...contact mick@nonstopables.com for more info! 

NARCO T GETS HOMEGROWN SUPPORT AT 1XTRA
NARCO T's GATECRASHER is up in the all time TOP 20 HOMEGROWN CUTS. Support that beautiful 12" and vote this week for NARCO (NO.13). Just click the link below:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/1xtra/morestyles/homegrown_20.shtml

TURNTABLE DJ’S ADDED TO 1XTRA’S MIX
At last the long-suffering mix DJ’s at 1Xtra have gained some must needed profile on the site. This change also means you can now hear an hour long mix from Chris Reed and LJ Blends every Wednesday at 6pm. The DJ’s will have an alternate week to shine, and you’ll be able to hear a selected twenty-minute mix from each DJ at the URL below.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/1xtra/djshows/mixdjs

FLOETRY CHALK UP MORE NOMINATIONS STATESIDE
Definitely one of the UK’s best exports this year, Neo-soul pairing Floetry have been nominated for a number of awards for the 2003 Soul Train Lady of Soul Awards. Find out which and how many below.

http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1474184/20030718/floetry.jhtml

MYSTRO HOOKS UP WITH REGGAE LEGEND
London based rapper Mystro has been raising eyebrows for some time for his supreme talent both sides of the pond. He's about to break out of the mold. Fo sho! Not only are we being treated With a forthcoming EP release on Low-Life Records this fall, but Myst-diggi hooked NCM up with a sneaky CDR of a track he has just recorded with non other than Junior Reid, produced by SiSpex of the notorious production duo - The Creators. It's bangin! No release date has yet been set, although we understand it's coming out on Dyna-Mic Records in the UK.

VOTE FOR KLASHNEKOFF'S VIDEO ON TV
In this particular case we are asking for the support of you all in helping Kemet Entertainment Records get some rotation for their first video of Klashnekoffs', "Murda". The video is being aired on a new Sky network (# 467) satellite 24 hour music channel called Channel-U. To get this video on rotation we are asking you to vote by calling this number in UK - 09069 58 58 58 with the video code 453. 

DJ QUEST TAKES UK DMC TITLE
Bristol based DJ Quest won the ‘UK DMC/ Technics Championships’ on July 4 at Shepherds Bush Empire in London. Second and third places went to Blakey and Daredevil respectively. The World Finals take place on the weekend of 13th and 14th September 2003 at Brixton Academy. The big question is will DJ Skully, last year's people's choice, be taking part in the World Finals? "I'm looking forward to the DMC's in September, but this will be my last competition" Skully told the press. "As the ex-UK DMC champ I've got a lot of pressure on my shoulders, but at the end of the day I love the competition, the taking part, and I've had a lot of support over the last year. A lot of people wanna see my back".

http://www.dmcworld.com

LORD OF THE RINGS - NINJA TUNE DO RINGTONES
Isn't it funny how musical ringtones only sound good to the person who owns the phone? Everyone else hates them with a passion burning deep in their soul. Well, here's you chance to annoy whole train carriages full of people with Ninja Tune Ringtones. If that's going too far then you can get some nice screen backgrounds instead. It's all free (for now) so get clicking at http://www.ninjatune.net/ringtones and you can have Mr Scruff "Sweetsmoke" ringing you not only on the train but at gigs, festivals, annoying your workmates and being quite flash in the pub.

KISS FM GIVES HIP HOP A BIGGER PLATFORM
It's all change at Kiss FM, which means good news for us hip hop lovers. DJ Skully has been moved from his graveyard slot on Mondays at 2am, to go out live on Thursday nights at 9pm. And The Chubby Kids show with Big Ted & Shortee Blitz will also see some changes. Their Wednesday night show will now start at 9pm and they've been given a new Sunday show, which also starts at 9pm. "The Sunday show will have some R&B flavours too, but trust me it will still be me and Ted playing hip hop just like before", Shortee Blitz told the press. Did we say good news? We meant GREAT news!

NEWCOMER RECORDS FIRST STREET PROMO WITH MCD
Bubbling around the UK for a good 2-3months, is a new kid on the hiphop/rap block. JTWR (pronounced Jay-Twarr), aged 18 and leader of his " Dropout Club" movement has recently been spot-dating in Scotland, Wales and England doing both his own shows and also supporting such acts as Public Enemy, Killa Kela, Ugly Duckling and DJ Format/Abdominal. Not bad a first run, eh? Well, the white label we've heard buzzing all over pirate radio and other hiphop radio airwaves catching the attention of the heads is entitled " Backlash". It features an English rap legend MCD and is produced by his 16-year-old mate Jack. There are rumors about massive major label interest. Here comes the next generation?

REGGAE INFLUENCES IN UK HIP HOP
1xtra recently broadcast a radio documentary on the influence reggae has had on the hip hop movement in the UK. The programme speaks to the usual suspects. Rodney P, Roots Manuva and Seanie T among others. Check it out.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/1xtra/hiphop/reggae_doc.shtml

RICHARD GRANT - HIP HOP POETRY ON BBC COVENTRY
A quick note to let you know that BC Coventry featurde an article about Hip Hop poetry slammer Richard Grant on their website. 
http://www.bbc.co.uk/coventry/culture/stories/2003/07/hip-hop-poetry.shtml
or http://www.bbc.co.uk/coventry/culture/index.shtml

FUSION STEPS BACK UP TO THE PLATE AGAIN
Fusion has been out and about over the last few months, most notably at ‘Blacktronica’ where he took part in a producer battle, pitting MPC’s against Dobie and in Sheffield at the ‘Urban Smack Down’ event. Well you should be seeing a lot more of him over the coming months, as he puts the finishing touches to his soon to be released debut EP 'The Fire Next Time'. "For all those who have shown love and offered encouragement over the years, we promise to provide exclusive access to all new material", Fuse told the press. If you’d like to hear more from the golden boy, you can hit him on fusion@izm.co.uk.

HOT REMIX COMING YOUR WAY
Check the Red Sea Entertainment download page for a new Ayman Raze remix...

Ohio, Cleveland crew 'Iron Triangle' are about to release their debut Single 'Ill Like You Want It' on July 25th... The Planets own Ayman Raze has remixed the track but it will only be available for download on the Red Sea and Iron Triangle web sites. For more information check http://www.iron3angle.com and of course
http://www.redseaentertainment.com.

The Planets, Red Sea Entertainment, PO Box 30436, London NW6 7FR

NEW ALBUM AND SINGLES FROM TY... 
Ty's releasing his brand new album "Upwards" on Big Dada on September 8th. His album will be proceeded by double A side "Groovement / Ha Ha" released August the 18th with the follow up single "Wait a Minute" released October 6th. Check www.bigdada.com/artist.php?id=33 for more details!

MC APOCRAPHE...
The fine England based MC Apocraphe just released a 12"entitled "The many lives of apoc the main rock", some solid beats and rhymes provided by the man himself feat. Scor Zay Zee from Out Da Ville, Scalpels and DJ Casio. Production credit go out to The Labratz...for more info check out www.apocraphe.com! 

NEWS FROM NOTTINGHAM BRONX
Just to let you know, the new Heavy Bronx Experience Vol 5 EP "A New Era" is being released on June 27th on Heavy Bronx records. The EP features Cappo, Mr 45 and the legendary Zulu Nation MC Donald D updating his early 80's B-Boy classic "Rock the House" together with Lee Ramsay. The P Brothers have also re-pressed the super-rare mythical 70's Rock breakbeat track by German drummer "Das Mark Evans" as an interlude on the EP for all you DJ's to now be able to cut. This is the last on the series of "Heavy Bronx Experience" EP's on the label with a "Best of the Heavy Bronx Experience" Compilation LP including some unreleased tracks to follow later in the year. Check for updates on www.heavybronx.com and any retail enquiries to pbrothers@hotmail.com

THE ALMIGH-TY
The as yet untitled forthcoming 2nd album from one of our national most well known and respected rappers - TY will be released on Big Dada Records in September 2003. It seems such a long way away right? Well, TY realises this and he's going to give us a sneaky exclusive performance of a couple of the tracks on 29th May at Gosh!@Plastic People, Old Street, London. Here's TY's little tease for his fans "Its been fun! The album is hiphop music as in hiphop AND music." And that's all he's prepared to give away right now... TY has been busy outside of his album project too... here's some titbits:
Out now:

• Bone Idles with J Athletic featuring TY "Beyond The Clouds", and TY's "We Don't Care".
• He's also featured on new Data Switch Box EP on Q Tape Records in France. It's hiphop! The song is called "Love 4 This".
• Plus TY took part in "The African Conscience Project" compilation album out now in France on Universal Records which features Sizzla, Anthony B, Dead Prez, and TY featuring Breis!

To keep up with TY, check out his web site http://www.TYmusic.org

BLAK TWANG FANS LISTEN UP!
Tony Rotten aka Blak Twang will no longer be releasing the 3rd single "Public Order" from his album "Kik Off". In his own words the process was becoming a bit too "long-winded". So - he changed his mind. After touring for the best part of a year, the So Rottenous Tony is going to be jetting back off to Jamaica to start work asap on his next album and some other top secret projects... Can't wait!

KILLA KELA ON FIRE
Fresh back from a tour of Canada, the human beat box star from the UK, is currently on a national UK tour of Po Na Na venues with support from new face on the scene - JTWR aka John The White Rapper. Kela let us know that he's recorded at track with Frank-N-Dank for their forthcoming album which will be coming out later this year on ABB Records.

CIPHER J.E.W.E.L.S. GOES PRO!
Hooking up with Cipher from Moorish Delta 7 last week was a good chance to check out what Birmingham's most notorious rap group are up to. Apart from their national tour with the Pay As You Go crew, Cipher has let us know that he has his first ever pro Thai boxing match in August! We're all rooting for you! Contact Cipher at Seven Entertainment for more info... Plus don't forget if you haven't got your copy of "The Power & The Glory" album from Moorish Delta 7... go and get one! ya dig?.

S.A.S. LINKING UP WITH THE DIPLOMATS
Jim Jones (manager & CEO of Diplomat/Roc-A-Fella Records) and Jewels Santana (Diplomats official artist) are coming over to the UK in June and London rappers (heralded last year by Radio 1's "big dawg pitbull" Tim Westwood and Cipher Sounds on Hot 97 in NY) - Mega and Mayhem of the S.A.S. Crew are due to return to New York at their side. They'll be put in studio to work on more material for their next release. The Diplomats team are also considering putting S.A.S. onto the last few weeks of the US "Roc Army Tour" which features Jay-Z, Memphis Bleek, Beanie Sigel, State Property, Cam'ron and the Diplomats, M.O.P. and Twista. Woah!

BBC 3 FILMING SKINNY MAN FOR TV PROGRAMME
TV cameras were all over the place on Skinny man's "Str8 Outta Jail" Tour show in Cambridge at Rawganics over the 10/11th May weekend. It was crazy. Don't know what the air date is, so keep your eyes peeled and your ears to the streets.

EASTBORN SOLD OUT
The www.dropzonerecords.com website is now up and running, please check this for regular updates as well as online purchases. Please note that the EASTBORN Word Perfect LP is now sold out on CD but will be back in stock soon.

http://www.dropzonerecords.com

2 TALL HEAD AND SHOULDERS ABOVE OTHERS IN BOURNEMOUTH
In the recent Bournemouth heats of the DMC DJ competition DJ 2Tall reigned supreme and moved on to the next round.

1st 2Tall
2nd Muzzel
3rd Silk Cuts

Jabba the Kut came up first. but by all reports didn't really get going and unfortunately K-Flash didn't either. Scarfade turned in a top notch performance repping for the South West and X-Rated who pulled off some dope maneuvers surprisingly placed nowhere. 

Upcoming rounds: Liverpool (8th).. then Jazz Cafe (11th).. Cardiff on the 16th, Derby on 26th (with Lewis Parker).. ending up in Glasgow on 29th...

http://www.dmcworld.com
http://www.2tall.co.uk

BADBONES HOLDS OPEN MIC TO RANSOM
In what many observers are saying was a pretty good display Ransom Badbones took away the £300 top prize on the night. The night being the Black Olive MC Battle on the 30th April 2003.There are two main points of contention which are that it was thought that he could have been spitting some pre-writtens and the other is that Chester P was the main judge. Tackling each point in turn, any good freestyler should make their rhymes seem pre-written, and most freestylers when they get stuck will stick in a stock phrase or a line or two of suitable pre-written rhyme. There may be something in the Chester P conspiracy, as he is always going to rate his own crew highly, but he is well capable of being impartial - who is to know. Both points may just be sour grapes, but I guess the judges shouldn't have too much of a relationship with the competitors.

Competitors:
1.Butch
2.Craze
3.Fuse
4.Ritual
5.SARFR
6.Philli Wiz
7.Inner Space
8.Quest
9.Joey Cutlass
10.Menace
11.J Poet
12.Ramson Badbones
13.Sunnyjim
14.Ruffstylz

The semi finals were:
Sunnyjim vs Quest (Quest won)

Ramson Badbones vs Menace ( Badbones wins)

Final:
Quest vs Ramson Badbones ( Badbones wins)

http://www.musicfromthecorner.com
http://www.blackolive.org/UK%20Updates.htm

STAUNCH LIAISON DROP WAX
J-Glaze and Rod Hotley have dropped their Staunch Liaison 12" as a white label. It is their second release and contains three hilarious, but yet dope tracks and instrumentals. Make sure you try to cop it...

http://www.chippedherringrecords.com
email:info@choppedherringrecords.com

SUSPECT FILES VOL.1
Released today (14th April), for the bargain price of £3.99 is the all new compilation CD from Suspect Packages, entitled 'Suspect Files Vol.1'. A 14 track album sold solely thru Suspect Packages of unheard and underexposed exclusive bangers from the cream of the UK's underground... 

DDUBBLE IMPACTT - 'FZUCK'
LOST SOULS - 'JOKERS OPUS'
SKEPTIK - 'PROPER GANDER'
2HALVES: PARKE & R.A.M - 'WHERE D'YOU GET YOUR ACCENT FROM?'
KAPITEL - 'WOTCHA (REMIX)'
WORD ASSOCIATION - 'HIDDEN PACKAGE 101'
DIGITEK - 'Y?'
FOCUSED FEW - 'IT'S ALL THERE'
NATURAL GIFT - 'THE PROFESSIONALS' 
B.W.P FEAT.IZERNEGA - 'O.U.T. IN THE WEST'
DEADBEATZ & INTELLIGENT MADDNESS - 'PARANOID & PRANG'
DJ SOCLEAR & RUP - 'BLINGIN'
DAN SHAW - 'ONE LUNG'
STRETCH & PSEUDO - 'SO MR BUSH?'

...This is just the beginning, with 4 releases planned per year & fresh artwork from Karen Jane (http://www.karenjane.com), we aim to expose the best of the best where others failed the test... Check it out & support.

'THE ONE STOP SHOP FOR UK HIP HOP' http://www.suspect-packages.com

SPAZZ THE WORLD
Cappo’s debut album Spazz the World will get a full Zebra Traffic release later on in the year. He stunned a capacity crowd whilst supporting Public Enemy at the UEA in Norwich, and was invited to join Chuck D, Flavour Flav and Professor Griff for a spot of free stylin’ at the end of the show. Get ready for ‘Learn to be strong’, a proper party rockin’ hip hop record, which will get a single release in the not to distant.

http://www.zebratraffic.co.uk

THE PLANETS NEXT PROJECT ON NEW UK HIPHOP LABEL
Highly respected UK hiphop group, The Planets, are getting ready to release their extended EP "The Epic" next month on a new hiphop record label based out of London - Dyna-Mic Records. Dyna-Mic Records has been set up by ex-Undercover Magazine's Phil Sadak. The Planets' EP is great! The first track on the project is a collaboration with Prince Po and there's also a heavy track with Junior Reid entitled "Full Metal Jacket". Big up to Phil for his first project. The production is tight. Check it out in stores soon folks. It'll be on vinyl as well as CD.

MTV BASE TURN DOWN TY's NEW VIDEO
Rumor has it that for some reason or another MTV Base has turned down the new video "We Don't Care" by the much-loved rapper TY (Big Dadda Records) for airplay. Why??? This is a mystery to us at the moment. Nevertheless, the single is brilliant and will be in stores from 31st March featuring a remix from Lotek on tbe B-Side.

THE CREATORS REMIX NAS
If you get yourself a copy of the new single "I Can" by Nas then you'll be treated to a remix by Juliano of The Creators production outfit. That's what we like to see.

PHI-LIFE CYPHER'S FIRST SOLO ALBUM FROM LIFE
One half of PLC, Life, is releasing his solo album on Zebra on 24th March. We've checked it out and we highly recommend it! Napa has produced the majority of the tracks but... there is additional production from Mr. Thing and Juliano of The Creators.

http://www.zebratraffic.co.uk

US3 COLLABORATE WITH BLACK L.I.B.
For their 4th album, currently signed to Sony Japan, Us3 checked out almost 40 UK and US rappers for the opportunity to be the guest rapper to feature on around 8 tracks of their next album. After a couple of tryouts, Us3 finally were happy with one half of Black L.I.B. - Love Born aka Reg Wyns. This is great for his career as he has just starred in a role alongside Mos Def in the movie "Brown Sugar". Look out for the album coming soon. Sounds hot from what we heard already! For real!

NEW GRAND SLAM MAG
The propietors say: With no dedicated rap title in the UK and only marginal coverage available from the high street monthlies, times are hard for hip-hop enthusiasts and industry insiders alike. Those in the US fare little better, where only the most commercial end of the rap spectrum receives column inches. But a new hip-hop bi-monthly is on the horizon, set to fill this gaping chasm. From the creators of rap, funk & soul bible Big Daddy Magazine comes GRAND SLAM, a new title revamping and refining the Big Daddy formula.

sales@gsmag.net - Limited advertising space still available.
distro@gsmag.net – For stockists and wholesaler information.
editorial@gsmag.net – For editorial & review enquiries including sending promo’s
subs@gsmag.net – For subscription enquiries

BIG SMOKE MAGAZINE ISSUE 4 OUT NOW !
Sleeve Cover Artists A / B side - EST'ELLE (Stellar Entertainment) LEWIS PARKER (Virgin / Melankolic) JEHST( Lowlife / YNR), Also featuring: DJ MK, FUNKY DL, MAO MAO, GREEN JADE, LOTEK HI-FI, IRONBRIDGE, DARIO SANCHEZ, BIG DADA RECORDS, THE EMERALD STYLE, HOODZ UNDERGROUND, THIRSTIN HOWL III & RACK-LO AND MUCH MORE.. Available in HMV, Borders, Tower Records and all good Independent Record and Fashion Stores. W: http://www.bigsmokelive.com E: info@bigsmokelive.com  

DON'T WAIT FOR THE SMOKE TO CLEAR!

DEAL REAL RECORDS RE-OPENS
After disappearing without a trace and after a couple of years of speculation it seems that Deal Real Records shop has been resurrected and raised its self out of the grave. Keeping in roughly the same area, the shop is not in the old graf fronted shop between Bongo's and Selectadisk it used to be, but is now in one of those roads off the side of Carnaby St. So not much further to walk in your circuit of shops. Pete seems to not have anything to do with it, but the selection of wax is fair enough and if they keep it up should well be worth a visit every now and again.

RAP-AID UK HIP HOP CHARITY
Just got informed of a new charity that is trying to utilise the power of Hip Hop to raise money and support good causes. They have a couple of good things going on in Letchworth apparently and seem to have global aims. However the information on the site is pretty scant, and there is very little financial information as of yet. We need to know how much of the money raised goes on what they say it will and how much goes on administration. Is this within accepted parameters? How much money has been raised so far? Have the projects been a success? etc. All this information needs to be readily available before people will feel secure in handing over their money.

http://www.rap-aid.bravepages.com

BBC RADIO ARE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR NEW TALENT
We are drawing your attention again to the message previously posted in the forum. BBC Radio 1 is asking unsigned acts to send in their demos, which will be listened to and if successful could go on to be played as part of the OneMusic Unsigned Week. Six artists will be chosen for the week long event in January.

Look for the Radio1 r looking for demos 4 playlist thread in the General Discussion forum for more details and weblink.

Additionally, BBC Radio 1Xtra is also looking for budding DJs to submit hour long demo mixes for a proposed weekly showcase to be called X-Tapes. Send your demo mix (at least one hour long, on any format) & a short biography to:
XTAPES, 
1Xtra,
PO Box 1X,
London W1A

LONDON I VINYL STILL AVAILABLE
London I is the great new and upcoming UK Hip Hop group, formed by Charo and SLI. The LONDON INTELLIGENCE 12" single consisting of:

1. Blitz
2. Blitz Instrumental
3. Blitz Accapella
4. Renaissance
5. Renaissance Instrumental
6. Renaissance Accapella
7. I've Seen Things *(e-mail esely@hotmail.com for the link to this track on the net)
8. Bonus Scratch Samples

Costs £5 and is available at MSM record stores Camden, Suspect-Packages.com and through us at the address below:

London Intelligence
PO Box 42418
London
NW10 1XT

E-mail london_intelligence@hotmail.com for further details.

http://londoni.cjb.net/

ELEMENTS OF HIP HOP FIASCO
Continuing this years disastrous sequence of big live event collapses and disappointments what was set to be the largest Hip Hop event in the world ever went down like a damp sqib. Seeming to come from nowhere this 1Xtra sponsored event promised to bring together over 140 UK Hip Hop acts together to one event in the SE One club in London Bridge. Advertising and promotion was non-existent, there are stories of some of the organisers breaking out before the event even took place. With all this mis-management the thing was bound to fail, and it duly did. Punters once again lost out, and something like this is only going to get people annoyed and increase their cynicism. Anyway, check out the live review and lets hope that we can get some of the shows we deserve to actually go down and be successful, rather than being botched by people that obviously don't care about the music and are just out to line their own pockets by fleecing the punters.

http://www.elementsofhiphop.co.uk

DEBBEAT FESTIVAL FIASCO
As you all probably know by now, the Dedbeat Festival organisers have announced that the event due to have been held this November will now not be taking place until its more usual occurrence of February time. This comes on the back of the Essential Festival farces that happened (or not) earlier in the year. In the past the event has had some of the best line-ups and has drawn huge attendances, but now it will be synonymous with late cancellations, poor organisation and a lack of customer focus. The organisers said that all tickets would be moved to the new date, but this does not take into account other losses people may incur, like holiday bookings from work, travel cancellation penalties etc. The email sent out seemed to be saying that what was happening was a good thing, but really they have shafted all the punters and I'm sure people will think twice about attending a Dedbeat festival in the future. 

http://www.dedbeat.net

EVIL GENIUS ADVERTISES INVISIBLE
At long last, the all new Evil Genius website is up and running. Goto www.evilgeniusrecords.com and check out info on Krash Slaughta, DJ Proper & The Grand Lordmaster, and Advertising The Invisible. You can also play audio clips and order their fine recordings on vinyl and CD direct to your door. 

They want to thank everyone for their support and kind words so far. E.P's from Krash and Proper & The GLM have done well and are still selling, and the next project is gonna be a stone cold stereo rocker. Advertising The Invisible's 'Exotic Logic' E.P is due out early in 2003, and will be swiftly followed by their 'Hiding In The Spotlight' CD, featuring hard to obtain rare cuts, spliced with brand new and good for you trax. See press for details - ATI will be getting down in your town very soon.

GRAF WRITER ON THE RUN
If you frequent London's public transport you will have seen the prolific work of Enzoe, (Enzoh) who has recently been tracked down by the BTP and charged with 6 offences of criminal damage against LU and TfL. Estimated to be around £60,000 pounds to put right. After a hate and harassment campaign by the right wing sections of the media since this mans real identity was made public, and because of ludicrous estimations of the damage he has caused to be upwards of £1 million he has felt the need to abscond, presumably believing that this propaganda against him will have adversely prejudiced the chances of him receiving a fair trial.

In other tube related news, a statement has been made that the cost of removing graffiti is so high that the continued removal of tags, throw ups and pieces can no longer be sustained. This means that trackside pieces will only be removed if they are deemed to be obscene or offensive. This could be good news, but then again, who will be making be making these judgements?

MOBO PARTY RIOT
After the MOBO's there have been various reports in the media of a riot, involving people initially labeled as Reggae or Rap fans. Now while this may need to be reported, it shouldn't be the case that reporters and lazy journalists should be able to get away with labeling and aiding in the negative stereotyping of certain sections of people, it is not helpful. It is good to see that later reports have re-labeled these trouble makers party goers!

The after party was held by BMG records aboard a severely luxurious yacht moored in London's Docklands. The trouble is the latest in a string of violent incidents to mar Mobo after-show parties in recent years, and comes after highly-publicised problems on the UK garage music scene. There were reports of a crush in the lobby and the entrance to the boat, rumours that a man was attacked in the bar, although he is not pursuing any charges and accusations of a rape in the toilets. Apparently a live bullet was also found on the boat.

None of this sounds half as serious as the media are making out, and it is probably a case of some celebrities like Dani Behr making a big fuss and exaggerating the whole thing. If these people will court publicity, spend obscene amounts of money entertaining themselves, whilst raising the drawbridge behind themselves to cut off those less fortunate than themselves, in my opinion they bring all the jealousy and heat upon themselves.

Check the Mobo's Are A Joke article for the MOBO's results.

Air your opinions in the forums.

http://www.mobo.net

THE MACK IS BACK
Self styled bad boy and former R&B singer 30 year old Mark Morrison who is famous for his 1996 number 1 hit single the Return Of The Mack is back in the news, but unfortunately in a bad way. Since the demise of his recording career he has better been known for his criminal forays. This time he has been arrested in Kensington on Rape charges, accused by a woman who was staying at the same hotel as him.

RADIO 1 TO AXE LAMAQ
People, unless the BBC plan to replace Steve Lamaq's Live Session programme with something better we all need to jam them up and get them to keep Steve Lamaq in his five times per week slot, rather than relegating him to Monday evenings only. For those of you that don't know, Steve is one of the few outlets there are on mainstream radio for breaking new acts and playing more obscure and underground stuff. Now although his show isn't a Hip Hop format, you can forget Westwood for touching these tracks and apart from 1Xtra, which shamefully isn't available to poor people via normal radios is practically the BBC's only national outlet for music like this and should therefore be preserved before being replaced with either more dance, or as trends are dictating and therefore more likely a pure rock format.

In other Radio 1 news, following falling audience share, the management are about to embark on a knee-jerk restructuring. Forget the fact that this is meant to be a public service and therefore not necessarily after the biggest audiences, they are hell bent on further isolating minority music and persuing a pop agenda. Dave Pierce may be for the chop, which would be a shame, although his present incarnation is about as far from his true roots as you could get. Semi good news is that they are potentially looking to poach Zane Lowe from XFM, which could potentially bring a Hip Hop element, but lets face it, the present All City Show is a bit of a joke when compared to some of the quality shows out there. Lets hope Greenpeace doesn't come with him, and even worse, we don't get the other Zane Lowe, the MTV VJ personality. Why isn't the BBC looking for Shortee, or to take some of the undoubted talent they have on 1Xtra and promoting them?

http://www.petitiononline.com/session/petition.html
http://www.bbc.co.uk/radioone

279 CELEBRATES 10 YEARS OF THE FRIDAY NIGHT FLAVA SHOW
Yes, you heard it correctly, the award winning 279 is set to celebrate the fact that it is 10 years since he and Steve Wren launched the Friday Night Flavas Hip Hop Show on Choice FM. Since then 279 has taken over the reins and with a different line up that has included Big Ted amongst others has kept the show strong. Lets hope that there is another successful 10 years too. There is a Party on the 16th October at the Mean Fiddler in London. Tickets will be £12 in advance and Kool G Rap will be in attendance.

http://www.choicefm.net

3rd HIP HOP AWARDS
Without any fanfare at all, at Sound in Leicester Square, on the 18th Sept the 3rd Annual Hip Hop Awards took place and delivered a typically fake set of results. If you aren't familiar with the arguments check Riz's article on ukhh.com. Anyway the results are below, but, however good Psychic Phenomena are, how can they be Best Newcomer? Then all the Fredi Kruga, Westwood, Ja Rule and Christian awards just don't make this properly representative.

BEST UNSIGNED UK HIP HOP ACT
-Street Politiks

BEST UK HIP HOP NEWCOMER
-Psychic Phenomena

BEST UK HIP HOP FEMALE
-Est'elle

BEST HOLY UK HIP HOP ACT
-The Gifted

BEST UK HIP HOP ACT - SPONSORED BY HIP HOP AWARDS MAGAZINE AND THE VOICE
-Blak Twang 

BEST INTERNATIONAL HIP HOP ACT
-Ja Rule

BEST UK HIP HOP VIDEO
-Fredi Kruga "Be My Guest"

BEST UK HIP HOP SINGLE
-Fredi Kruga "Be My Guest"

BEST UK HIP HOP ALBUM
-Blak Twang "Kick Off"

BEST UK HIP HOP PRODUCER
-Doze Guyz

BEST MAINSTREAM UK HIP HOP RADIO PRESENTER
-Westwood (Radio 1)

BEST UNDERGROUND UK HIP HOP RADIO PRESENTER
-DJ Smasherelly (Bassline FM London)

BEST UK HIP HOP PERSONALITY
-DJ 279, Jane Flame & McFarlo (Choice FM)

BEST UK HIP HOP DJ
-DJ Skully

BEST UK HIP HOP EVENT
-Lyrical Lounge (London)

BEST EUROPEAN HIP HOP ACT
-Cam (France)

CONTRIBUTION TO UK HIP HOP 2002 
-DJ 279.

http://www.hiphopawards.co.uk

DMC/TECHNICS WORLD DJ CHAMPIONSHIPS WORLD FINAL 2002
1st: Kentaro from Japan
2nd: Skully from UK
3rd: Dopey from Canada

DMC Team Battle
1st: Birdy Nam Nam from France
2nd : La Guilde from Belgium
3rd: Mixologists from UK

Battle For World Supremacy
1st Place : DJ Netic from France
2nd Place : DJ Je-Key from Spain.

http://www.dmcworld.com

DYNAMITE BLOWS UP MERCURY
Ms Dynamite has won the £20,000 Mercury Music Prize and is the first black female to do so and only the second female ever. This comes after a meteoric rise to fame for the North London girl who first came to notice when she featured on a So Solid track. On Tuesday the 17th Roots Manuva also picked up the BBC People's Choice award for his Run Come Save Me LP.

BLADE RARITIES ON EBAY
Angus Batey has just put up some rare BLADE vinyl on eBay. There's other stuff for sale too but nothing UK (some US hip hop and soul, and some UK breaks/beats stuff like Basement Jaxx and Depth Charge). Click the link for the Blade records, and click "see sellers other auctions" for the rest. Any questions, please feel free to mail him. Thes collectors items could rack up quite a price.

Peep the auction: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=903144390

NINJA, BIG DADA & QUANNUM RELEASE SCHEDULE Revised 21/08/02
NINJA TUNE:
19th AUG CHOCOLATE INDUSTRIES, " Urban Renewal Project" ALBUM compilation - ZENCD72, includes Prefuse-73, Mosdef and Diverse, DJ Food, Tortoise, RJD2
27th AUG DJ VADIM, " Its On feat. Vakil / Up to Jah feat. Demolition Man" SINGLE ZEN12108 VIDEO to "Its On" by Sam Arthur
9th SEPT MR SCRUFF, " Trouser Jazz" ALBUM - ZEN65
16th SEPT DSP, " In The Red" ALBUM - ZENCD69 - promoted early in the summer and now ready to slay the UK
23rd SEPT DJ VADIM, " USSR: The Art of Listening" ALBUM - ZEN68
23rd SEPT MR SCRUFF, " Beyond / Champion Nibble (ltd 7")" SINGLE - ZEN12121
30th SEPT AMON TOBIN, " Verbal" SINGLE - ZEN12118
7th OCT CINEMATIC ORCHESTRA, " Horizons" SINGLE - ZEN12119
7th OCT SUPER NUMERI, " Electric Horse Garden" 7" SINGLE - ZEN7117
14th OCT AMON TOBIN, " Out From Where" ALBUM - ZEN70
21st OCT THE HERBALISER, " Blade b/w Doom" SINGLE - ZEN12122
28th OCT PEST, " Jefferson Shuffle" 10" EP - ZEN10123
4th NOV MR SCRUFF, " Sweetsmoke" SINGLE - ZEN12124
9th DEC DJ VADIM, " Bang" 12" (limited) - ZENRP002

BIG DADA:
23rd SEPT GAMMA, " Killer Apps" SINGLE BDO42 - WITH A KILLER VIDEO
14th OCT V/A, " Extra Yard" BD043 - Double Vinyl Album & CD
21st OCT TTC," De Pauvre Riches remixes (Detroit Grand Pubahs/Tacteel/Diplo)" SINGLE - BD044
28th OCT SHADOWLESS PRESENTS: DEFISIS & INFINITE LIVEZ, " Earth Time/Emceeme" SINGLE - BD045
4th NOV MAJESTICONS, " Piranha Party / Platinum Blaque" SINGLE - BD046
27th JAN MAJESTICONS, " Beauty Party" ALBUM - BD047
24th FEB MAJESTICONS, " Prom Night Party" SINGLE - BD048

QUANNUM PROJECTS:
2nd SEP LYRICS BORN, " Hello" (solo single from 1/2 of Latyrx) SINGLE - ZEN12120

http://www.ninjatune.net

1XTRA LAUNCHES TONIGHT
1Xtra, the new black music digital radio station from the BBC which is launching this Friday 16th August. 1Xtra will be dedicated to playing the very best in contemporary black music for a young audience. The station will cover a wide variety of genres within this musical arena including Hip-Hop, R'n'B, UK Garage and Ragga. The music will be played by the freshest line-up of DJ talent recruited from across the country. 

Check the Skitz and Rodney P trailer: <www.bbc.co.uk/1xtra/realmedia/skitz.ram>

To hear more hip hop check out:

• Original Fever with Rodney P & Skitz every Monday night 7pm -10pm
• Saturday Mixtape with Semtex every Saturday evening 7pm - 9pm
  and
• Tales From The Legend with Excalibah every Thursday night 10pm - 12midnight

Hear 1Xtra via a digital radio, digital tv or online www.bbc.co.uk/1xtra.

MANUVA GOING FOR A GONG
News in is that Roots Manuva and Mike Skinner aka The Streets (whose LP Original Pirate Material has gone Gold (100,000 copies)) are up for the £20,000.00 Mercury Music Prize awards, but are up against some stiff competition including new Virgin sensation Gemma Hayes, The Doves, The Coral, and the prolific David Bowie.  The Mercury Prize has in past years lifted artists such as Portishead, Roni Size and Badly Drawn Boy from underground cult status to mainstream chart success.

ESSENTIAL FESTIVAL FIASCO
It has been reported that the two day Essential Festival due to be held on Hackney Marshes on the 4the & 5th of August will now not be taking place. This decision follows the farce that was the Bristol event earlier in the year. In the past the event has had some of the best line-ups and has drawn huge attendances, but in more recent times it has become synonymous with late cancellations, poor organisation and a lack of customer focus. The excuse was that the marshes would not be in a suitable condition and would be unsafe, but it seems the company is suffering from legal and financial troubles and it is more likely that knowing they would have further cancellations they couldn't con punters a further time and get away with it. 

http://www.essentialfestival.co.uk

TONY BLAIR'S ANTI DISORDA POLICY
I hear on the news that our Prime Minister has an anti-disorder policy. After his recent work with 617, I'm sure that this can't be right and that he would put his full backing behind Suspect-Packages, who coincidentally have just launched their fully integrated online ordering system accepting credit cards!

http://www.suspect-packages.com

GRAF ARTISTS GOING DOWN
As reported in the Evening Standard, it seems that the youths who were responsible, in a shocking incident, for pulling a man's eyeball out and leaving it dangling by the cord during a skirmish on a bus on Waterloo Bridge, were in fact DDS members Coza and Zonk. As if graffiti doesn't get enough of an unwarranted bad rep, if this turns out to be true it'll make things many times worse. The artists are looking at being convicted of assault/GBH or similar offence.

UPPING ROOTS
Just as his Dub Come Save Me LP is about to drop on Big Dada, rumours have it that the Rootical one is set to leave the label who have helped him reach the lower echelons of the pop charts. Can't say what the reasons are for this or whether he feels the label didn't support him enough or give him enough freedom. Whatever it is, we hope Roots finds a new home soon and achieves even more success.

In related Roots news it seems that the next release for MC Pitman could be a cover 'Witness The Pitness', look out for that.

http://www.bigdada.com
http://www.rootsmanuva.net
http://www.sonrecords.com

LOW LIFE ON THE MOVE....
Never ones to stand still, the Low Life Records crew and office as well as Independent Pressing are vacating their West London premises and are relocating to the swankier parts of the West End. They assure us any Mail Orders sent to the old address will be forwarded, but now the new address for all correspondence should be:

19 Devonshire St.
London
W1G 7AH

Also currently available are the un-missable new Braintax 12", 'Riviera Hustle' ft. Jesht / So What? on Low Life and the Riddim Killa / A Love Song 12" from Rodney P on Riddim Killa.

http://www.lowliferecords.co.uk
http://www.independentpressing.com

DARK CRAFTSMEN GET THEIR OWN WEB PRESENCE....
The group from Southampton are releasing their second 12" next month (June) "The Creepshow EP", which includes 4 tracks: 
Creepshow, Organ Donor, Blade Flaming and Voodoo Mardi Gras 1 remix, 1 instrumental and an accapella. The website http://www.darkcraftsmen.co.uk includes streaming audio of all the tracks lyrics, news, pictures and more.

http://www.darkcraftsmen.co.uk

KILLA KELA ROUND UP....
Kela's album is set for release in July, perfect for the summer months. There will be 2 different cover designs, one for the CD and one for the vinyl. As well as the completion of his debut album, Kela is also working on remixes for other artists. He is currently remixing tracks from the new Alabama 3 album and working on a track for Royce Da 5’9. 

As well as all the PERMANENT MARKER. Kela can also be heard on the forthcoming DJ Vadim album “USSR – The Art Of Listening” LP on NinjaTune. Kela features on the track “Revelations Well Expounded” along with the experimental vocal artist Ulzula Dudziak.

Look out for a Kela and Teki Latex collaboration real soon for the Frenchman's solo LP. Also check out the Kela website for an exclusive “Permanent Marker” sampler, with tracks nicely mixed together it gives a sneak preview of the album everyone has been waiting for, this can also be heard on www.jazzfudge.co.uk

In a strange development Kela could be the first UK Hip Hop artist to have his own online appreciation group spontaneously come into creation. Head over here to lend your support.

http://www.killakela.com 

PHI LIFE CYPHER ROUND UP....
This year sees the release of Life’s solo material on Rob Luis’ (Tru Thoughts) new hip hop label Zebra Traffic. Already he has released the “Movie Drome” 12” which has gained good reviews and support within the music press; an album will follow in the near future. Life gives his distinct conscious rhymes while the production duties are handled as ever by DJ Nappa. Check out www.zebratraffic.co.uk for more details.

Nappa is currently working on a remix for the Spanish Grammy winning rap outfit 7 Notas 7 Colores. The groups’ members include Mucho Mu, who featured on DJ Vadims Ninja Tune album “USSR: Life From the Other Side”. 7 Notas 7 Colores are one of the most popular rap groups in Spain, Nappas remix will be available later this year on Jazz Fudge.

An August release date has now been set for the Phi Life and Taskforce “Chosen Few” EP, so fans will finally be able to get their hands on this one off collaboration between 2 of the most respected groups within the scene today.

LIVERPOOL DMC RESULTS MAY 2002
Big props should go out to all the competing DJs, but on the night it was Blakey who shone through and who will be going on to test his skills for the UK title in London later in the year. Worthy of another mention is Itchy who came a close second apparently jointly with Clockwork. Rasp came in third place.

http://www.dmcworld.com

DARK CIRCLE UPDATE...
If you attended the legalise Cannabis festival in London’s Brockwell Park, you would have seen Dark Circle perform in the hip hop tent. Although not a planned performance, they still caught the audiences attention and smoked a lot of dope. Nice.

A snippet compilation of their forthcoming album “The Anonymous”, has landed in the Jazz Fudge office, and it is sounding very good indeed. With vocals switching between English and German and the production also handled in both countries, this group are truly taking Jazz Fudge into the EU.

http://www.jazzfudge.co.uk

FALLACY& FUSION - THE GROUND BREAKER (Wordplay) - Release Date: 3rd June 2002
When a new group elects to call its debut single 'The Groundbreaker', you've got a right to expect something out of the ordinary. Thankfully, Fallacy & Fusion's new record is, without question, something special. 'The Groundbreaker' is an irresistible, supercharged summation of everything London's black music scene has to shout about in 2002, full of knowing nuances and lyrical references to keep the underground occupied but with enough universal appeal to go down a storm anywhere people feel the need to dance, too. 

Live Dates...
Thur 23 Diesel U-Music Awards @ Fabric
Sat 1 Homelands @ The Movement & The End Tent
June 3 Off The Hook, Unity, Derby
June 5 Support Mobb Deep @ Astoria
June 21 Wordplay night @ Ocean Rooms, Brighton
June 28 Hustler @ Club Iforbach, Cardiff
July 20 Bug Jam @ Santa Pod
August 4 London Essential

Press Quotes
"A home-grown headbanger that is going to dominate dancehalls all year... Heavy." One To Buy - 5/5 Mixmag
"They said it couldn't be done. But, not for the first time, they were wrong. This record exists halfway between thugged-out underground hip hop and bouncing UK garage. Is this the start of a new genre?" - 4/5 HHC
"If hip hop in the UK has a future to match the United Snakes, this style of urban culture clash holds the key to such a power struggle... the energy rush is irresistible." Jockey Slut
"If this doesn't get you dancing you must be dead." - 8/10 Ministry magazine.

http://www.sourcelab.net

SUDDEN DEBT RECORDS SCHEDULE....
SUDDEN DEBT RECORDINGS is a relatively young label set up in early 2001 based in EXETER in deepest Devon. The label is committed to bringing through local talent with a big emphasis on quality of recording and finished product, backing up their releases with high energy, entertaining live shows and promotions. The label is home to 3 crews at present being CRITICALLY ILL, SPECIFIK & PROJECT CEE, and the VERBAL WERZULS. Current releases are: CRITICALLY ILL Inoperable case b/w Twisted 12" SDR001 SPECIFIK & PROJECT CEE Fuel injected funk EP SDR002 both are currently available through CARGO or direct fom the label themselves. Plenty in the pipeline for the rest of the year as well, Critically Ill drop their long awaited signature tune 'Critically ill' b/w 'Higher education' in August plus a new Specifik & Project Cee 12", a Sudden Debt Allstars EP featuring the Verbal Werzuls and speaking of whom, their much requested debut 12" is being recorded as you read this and already sounds like a contender for the record of the year! Need any more info give the label a shout.

Tel: 07970 713326
Mailto:suddendebt@hotmail.com

TIM WESTWOOD TO RELEASE A UK HIP HOP CD SHOCKER!!!
Ben over at  www.trustthedj.com in London has recently re-launched the website for Radio 1 Hip Hop DJ - Tim Westwood (www.timwestwood.com) and in order to celebrate the launch Westwood is searching for the hottest UK Hip Hop talent to feature on an album due for release in July. The album will be available worldwide via his website and he'll be featuring some of the chosen artists on his Radio 1 Rap Show. 

For more info check out http://www.trustthedj.com/timwestwood/news?news=638 - People have to send their entries to Westwood on MP3, CD, Mini Disc or Cassette.

http://www.trustthedj.com

BLADE TBC - Wordplay
Wordplay have announced that they expect Blade to be back with a new single in late August. For this he should break free of the clutches of Mark B and we wait with baited breath to see what sort of suff he'll come with.

http://www.sourcelab.net

GRAB YOUR PIPE AND SLIPPERZ....
Task Force's DJ - Louis Slipperz has dropped a smashing CD mix featuring 20 plus tracks with bounteous specials and exclusives. Entitled £10 Bag this is one you must pick up. It is available via mail order from the Music From The Corner website, along with a limited re-release with includes both of the previous white label releases of Wha Blow?! and Graf Da Bus Up! on 1 piece of wax. There is also a bootleg of New Mic Order doing the rounds, so if you would rather pay £10, than £90+, then keep your eyes peeled.

http://www.musicfromthecorner.com

1XTRA MAKES HEAVYWEIGHT SIGNINGS....
1Xtra today announces that 15 additional DJs who have signed to the BBC's digital radio station for fans of black music. The hot new signings reflect the wide variety of genres within this musical arena that the station is dedicated to playing for a young audience.

Among the newcomers are Rodney P & Skitz who have been confirmed in time for launch in August.

The fresh new line-up of UK DJ talent recruited from across the country will play the very best in contemporary black music including Hip-Hop, R'n'B, UK Garage, Drum'n'Bass and Ragga. Willber Willberforce, Programmes Editor, 1Xtra: "1Xtra is committed to taking black music to the next level. The new signings are so passionate about this new station it's unbelievable. From the Heartless Crew to Ras Kwame one thing is for sure the UK will finally get the music it so truly deserves."

On signing, Skitz (one of the UK's most respected Hip-Hop producers) said : "Alongside my co-pilot Rodney P, we will bring cutting edge Hip-Hop to the masses with particular importance on brand new dub plates and upfront tunes from the UK and US Hip-Hop fraternity, as well as highlighting important up and coming quality artists."

BBC Radio 1xtra will be available on all digital platforms, including the internet, digital radio, and digital satellite and cable. Although the full DJ line-up and schedule has yet to be finalised, to date, >the station has already announced DJ Excalibah, Femme Fatale, DJ Semtex and Ronnie Herel.

RIGIDMOUTH BOOK....
Look out for the new book by graffiti artist and Jazz Fudge designers Rough and Timid, entitled Rigidmouth. The book is a collection of paintings; photos etc they have both created over the last few years. Also included are contributions from Charlie Dark (Attica Blues), Juice 126, One Mor, Stormie, Lucy Mclauchlan (Beat 13), and Joseph Barnes (Reptiles). The book is currently available from the Jazz Fudge website www.jazzfudge.co.uk also check out Rough and Timids own web site www.404design.co.uk. Watch out for the official launch party at Public Life, 82a Commercial Road, London E1, on the 10th of April. With the Reptiles Djing and Sleepyeye 
performing live.

All books on sale from www.jazzfudge.co.uk are signed by the artists!!!

PHI LIFE & TASK FORCE CHOSEN TO DROP APRIL/MAY....
The long awaited " Chosen Few" EP with Taskforce is now set for an April / May release. Tracks from the EP have already been heard on Tim Westwoods Radio 1 Rap Show and XFM's All City Hip-Hop show.

With the success of their last single "Herbaholics" and the live show they have been doing, Phi Life have gained media attention around the world. Radio 1's own Tim Westwood was quoted as saying they were "the future of British hip hop." Also you can currently find a picture of Life on the cover of Czech Republic magazine Bbrakk, as well as a full interview and a pull out poster of the group!

More Phi Life Cypher News.
http://www.jazzfudge.co.uk
http://www.musicfromthecorner.com

KELA MAKES PERMANENT MARK....
Killa Kela - After the release of his two singles "Heavy Artillery" 
(JFR025) and "Crop Circles"(JFR029), Kela now gets set to drop his debut album "The Permanent Marker". The album is not only a step forward for the art of beat boxing, but music in general. Featuring such guests as Akrobatik, DJ Plus One, Harry Love, DJ Hype from Berlin, Sonar Circle, fellow beat boxer Chase, Normski, and MJ Cole collaborator Fallacy who's just inked a deal to Source / Wordplay for his LP. The album is set for release in June 2002; Kela will also be embarking on his own tour starting in September 2002, covering the UK and Europe. He will also showcase some album tracks when he plays London's Dekefex alongside Fallacy where they will perform "Boom Accessories" on of the LP tracks.

Kela can also be seen live as part of The Heavies, along with Nicky 
Blackmarket, Plus One, The Jungle Drummer and Rodney P. The Heavies are a live drum & bass group where Kela showcases his amazing skills, diversity and love of drum & bass.

Kela will also have his own Permanent Marker tent at this years Bug Jam 2002 in July. Kela will be the host along with performances by the Mixologists, Fallacy, Normski, and other special guests.

http://www.jazzfudge.co.uk
http://splinterproducts.com/killakela

BLU RUM 13 TO DROP SINGLE AND DEBUT LP....
After the release of his debut single, Blu Rum 13 is now set to release his second 12" single and first official album. The single is a double A side with "it Is" produced by DJ Vadim backed with "Figure It Out" produced by Mr Thing, it also features "Sleep Speechless" the Otaku Nightmare Mix by Grand Theft.

Already the single has gained reactions from DJ's such as Mr Scruff "a sneaky grower" and Rob Luis "A1 & B1 are both excellent. Top production".

More Blu Rum 13 News.
http://www.jazzfudge.co.uk
http://www.blurum13.com

BLAK TWANG KICKS OFF....
The new single from Blak Twang, number 1 Bad Magic recording artist, entitled the Kik Off with its Football theme in World Cup year has a video to accompany it which is now available online. So head over to http://www.video-c.co.uk/blaktwang/kikoff.html to check it out for your self....

FREE READ....
Looks like it has been done on a typewriter and photocopied, but the interest and devotion are there for this Graf fanzine from the UK's Steel city. This issue (number two), although it is a quick read, features articles on Daim, Jack Napier, as well as loads of pix of walls, suggested web links and a couple of record reviews. Everybody should mail: absenceofauthority@hotmail.com to obtain their free copy.

RAPPER TRAGICALLY KILLED IN LONDON
In the evening of the 31st of January 2002 rapper Kidco was killed as a result of a targeted shoot out at Nando's restaurant in Shepherds Bush, West London. Apparently a gang opened fire and a waitress was injured in the shoot out. As the shootists tried to get away their car collided with another and a moped and then crashed head on into an estate agents narrowly missing Richard Croft, one of the employees inside. One man also died in the crash after himself having suffered two gunshot wounds.

Kidco was planning to release his debut album on Longtime Records in England, in February 2002 - which amongst other rap talents features: Julian from The Creators and LA rapper, Amad Jamal. It is unknown at this stage whether the release will proceed now or not.

Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time. His energy and passion for hip hop will be missed. He was a talented producer and rapper who has been lost forever on the eve of his success.

Peace. Stop the violence..

http://www.bbc.co.uk/london/news/january/uxbridgestab_310102.shtml

ABSURD HEADCASE TO DROP
The Headcase Ladz release their new 12" 'Absurdisms' on the 22nd of February 2002. A concoction of wonky Hip Hop and beef jerky bangers featuring Johnny B. Six tracks deep from the bowels of Mr Banging, it is a check up from the neck up. Distributed by Shady Acorns.

Tel: 01983 295090
Fax: 01983 200919

UK RAP RECORDS NEWS
The Dark Craftsmen's second 12 'The Creepshow EP' is released in four weeks time before the album drops. The new Killa Instinct album will also be released in a months time. The label has a blend of both hard rhymers akin to the hardcore sound with The Criminal Minds and Killa, while The Loose Cannons and The Dark Craftsmen are breaking boundaries with sounds of the future. UK Rap Records are constantly looking for new artists so keep those demos rolling in.

mailto:halo@ukraprecords.com 
http://www.ukraprecords.com

BIG SMOKE MAGAZINE ISSUE 3 OUT NOW !
Sleeve Cover Artists A side - FALLACY/SKEME, B side - SHORTEE BLITZ & BIG TED, Also featuring: All that other essential stuff, plus much more. Available in HMV, Borders, Tower Records and all good Independent Record and Fashion Stores. W: http://www.bigsmokelive.com E: info@bigsmokelive.com E: subscriptions@bigsmokelive.com F: 0208 644 8389 Editor: Dirty Harry / 07946 228 513 News Editor: Nat / 07956 114 211 Sales & Advertising: Paul Bailey / 07949 780 680. Items for review please send to: Big Smoke Magazine Po Box 1002 Croydon CR9 2UF United Kingdom

DON'T WAIT FOR THE SMOKE TO CLEAR!

BALLISTIC PRODUCTIONS - SETS TO DROP IN 2002
After the success of 2001 Ballistic Productions are ready to explode into 2002. Already this year they are in the Post Production stages of their latest Drama by director Paul Owens, and are scheduled to complete their third music video for Wolftown Recordings. (The Previous video can be viewed at http://www.wolftown.co.uk)

Also this year comes the follow up to 'Boxedd', from director Sai Smith comes Ballistic Productions latest drama 'Broken', to be completed by March.... Stand By

mailto:ballisticproductions@hotmail.com 

DARK SIDE EMPIRE RECORDS
Dark Side Records artist ONC "Tha Most Hated" is releasing his first in a series of Albums in November 'DIARY OF A FORGOTTEN WAR' Each album is going to be a diary entry apparently, so it should be interesting, it will be the first of a long series. Also available in November is the Dark Side Empire Volume 1 Mix Tape, which includes Dark Side Empire artists such as ONC, Poison Assasin, Dead Line & more. Also coming soon, is the dark side mafia album 'AQUILUS ORDO SECLORUM' 

http://www.darksideempirerecords.20m.com

VESTAX DJ COMP. WORLD FINAL 2001 - TURNTABLIST EXTRAVAGANZA
Held On Nov. 10th in Los Angeles (the first time the final has been held outside Japan) the following battled it out for World Supremacy: 1. Poland DJ KRIME, 2. Belgium DJ LAMONT, 3. Germany DJ MAN-AT-ARMS, 4. Spain DJ LOOMY, 5. Argentina JUAN PABLO SGALIA, 6. Japan DJ HANGAR, 7. Japan JIF ROCK, 8. Italy DJ TAYONE, 9. Australia J-RED, 10. Scandinavia DJ SABER, 11. USA-East Coast BOOGIE BLIND, 12. USA-West Coast ROCKY ROCK!, 13. Canada - DJ DOPEY, 14. France - DJ TROUBLE, 15. UK - DJ WOODY.

Judged by a fat line up of past winners, the best on the night were judged to be:
1. Boogie Blind 
2. Rocky Rock 
3. Jif Rock  

Unfortunately DJ Woody didn't even rate a mention with a lack lustre display and two hardly dissimilar sets.

http://www.vestax.com.au/xtravaganza/index.html

RAGO ISSUE 4 - OUT NOW
The blatent Wolftown self promotion tool, Rago is out directly and should be dropping thru your letter boxes anytime soon. This issue continues the improvement and features the likes of: Vicious Circle, Moorish Delta 7, Shadow Cabinet, Insane Macbeth, High Timez, Doyen D, Yogi, Ca$hino, IMD, SD3 and many more.... Hit up Tricksta for your copy...

email:tricksta@wolftown.co.uk

TASK FORCE PRESENT - MUSIC FROM THE CORNER
The brothers McBain have now launched their own website to promote and sell their music from. The "MUSIC FROM THE CORNER" VOL. 1 CD containing 10 unreleased, raw tracks, basement tape style, (& the 3 Amigos with Braintax, which appeared on the Stealth Magazine cover CD) is available now for £10 inc. postage (£11.00 overseas) only from their website www.musicfromthecorner.com (and www.lowliferecords.co.uk).

http://www.musicfromthecorner.com

LOW LIFE RELEASE SCHEDULE
Low Life Records have announced their autumn release schedule which includes two 12"s already reviewed on this site and Braintax's long awaited LP, and a couple of surprises. Check the website www.lowliferecords.co.uk for more info or write to them at: Low Life, 112a Uxbridge Rd., London, W12 8LR, UK to order.

BRAINTAX "DON'T DRAG ME IN ! / BIRO FUNK"
+ bare instrumentals of both cuts featuring Mystro in the shops 29th Oct., this is the first single from the forthcoming LP "BIRO FUNK" out Nov. 19th on double vinyl and CD.

RODNEY P "BIG TINGS WE INNA" EP
3 tracks, 2 instrumentals features Skinnyman & Mr. 45 also in the shops 29th Oct.

AND EVEN MORE S*#T TO COME!

JEHST & J-ZONE "STAIRCASE TO STAGE"
OUT December 3rd : a tasty prequel to the new EP due for the end of January 2002. This is produced by Harry Love and is a one track teaser with radio, dirty and instrumental and accapellas.

TASK FORCE "FUGS R US / JACKED"
We've hardly been building this up cos everyone else seems to want to do it for us, these tracks are so heavy it's ridiculous, due for Feb. 2002

http://www.lowliferecords.co.uk

DMC RESULTS
WORLD DJ CHAMPIONSHIP 2001
1st Place - Plus One UK
2nd Place - Klever USA
3rd Place - P-Money New Zealand & Beware Hong Kong

TEAM BATTLE CHAMPIONSHIP 2001
1st Place - Perverted Allies
2nd Place - Mixologists UK
3rd Place - Skratch Action Hiros France

BATTLE FOR WOLRD SUPREMACY 2001
1st Place - DJ Netik France
2nd Place - Snayk Eyes USA

http://www.dmcworld.com

STONEGROOVE NEWS
After the recent SIMPLE TINGS, and PHYCIC PHENOMENA releases, expect the Battle Dome project which is a whole bunch of battle MC's released on 12" this time. Look forward to that soon from Stone Groove.

http://www.stonegrooverecordings.com

WOLFTWOWN NEWS
Loadsa upcoming stuff from Wolftown Recordings, there's another single coming off the VICIOUS CIRCLE LP real soon, after the upcoming VICIOUS CIRCLE Album. Expect a limited 500 copies of a 12 INCH single coming called ARTFORM TECHNIQUE. An album called LEGENDARY STATUS featuring the full crew. There's solo stuff coming from HIGH TIMEZ, an album called HIGH GRADE JUGGLIN. Also a mini solo project from main Wolftown star LATE called LATE...INTERNATIONAL RHYME SPITTIN which will feature a whole heap of guests. Then there's the STREET SCIENCE LP which is a LATE, TRICKSTA and PEZ project. And to top it off there's EPs coming from CONMAN, WAYNEY G and others.

http://www.wolftown.co.uk

2ND UK HIP HOP AWARDS - THE RESULTS
Following the success of the 1st UK Hip Hop Awards in September 2000, the 2nd annual UK Hip Hop Awards ceremony was held at: Club Sound Leicester Square, London W1 on Wednesday 19th September 2001. The results announced were as follows:

Best UK Hip Hop Act: Ty
Best UK Hip Hop Newcomer: Fredi Kruga
Best International Act: Mos Def
Best UK Hip Hop Female: Est'elle
Best UK Gospel Hip Hop Act: Green Jade
Best UK Hip Hop Single: Mark B & Blade 'Ya Don't See The Signs'
Best UK Hip Hop Producer: Adam F
Best UK Hip Hop Album: Skitz 'Countryman'
Best UK Hip Hop Video: Karl Hinds 'Don Gramma'
Best Mainstream UK Hip Hop Radio Presenter: Big Ted & Shorty Blitz (Kiss Fm London)
Best Underground UK Hip Hop Radio Presenter: Disorda (Itch Fm London)
Best UK Hip Hop Personality: Shortee Blitz
Best UK Hip Hop DJ: Shortee Blitz
Best Unsigned UK Hip Hop Act: Wildflower
Best UK Hip Hop Event: Dekefex (London)
Contribution To UK Hip Hop 2001: Blak Twang (Artist/Producer)

Got anything to say about this? Go here.

mailto:enquiries@hiphopawards.co.uk
http://www.hiphopawards.co.uk

FORUM REVAMP
We have ditched the old style forums and linked up with another top UK Hip Hop site to share and co-promote their forums. Ours are fully branded and are now available here. Unfortunately the old forums are now closed, but can still be viewed here for a while longer. If you have a burning issue you need to get off your chest get in the new forums and get it off your chest. Additionally if you run a UK Hip Hop site, or want to include UK Hip Hop topics get in touch about linking up to our forums. 

Additionally there is a whole thread for UK Hip Hop Gigs, Club nights and Shows so details of that stuff will no longer go up here.

UK GRAFFITI BATTLE : LOCATION TWELVE
So Location Twelve is now two and a half months old. It has been updated almost everyday as promised and its looking good to stay that way. Anyway as you may have noticed, it's the summer holidays here in the UK, and it's all gone a bit quiet. To try and get things going once more L12 thought they'd organise a battle. They've tried to make it as simple as possible, so here is what to do ...
1. Select a piece you've painted this year on a surface somewhere in the UK or Ireland. 
2. Scan it or place a photo of it into an envelope. 
3. Now send the scanned photo to dan@graffiti.org or post the envelope to our PO Box address (L12, PO Box 12764, London SE19 1ZJ). Be sure to mark your photo clearly as a submission for the battle and tell us where it was painted (if applicable)!!! note: good quality photos and high resolution scans will make your submission look nicer!! 
4. Closing date for submissions is the 1st October which is when voting will commence. Submissions will be added to the battle page as they are received. 
5. Submissions will be placed into 3 categories (illegal, legal & overall). 1 submission per writer only in each category. Voters will be able to place a vote in each category. note: A trains category will be added if more than 3 trains are submitted). 
6. Finally, voting will be held online and will close on the 31st of October. 
That's it!! Start flexing those styles and we'll do the rest. If you haven't visited the site for a while then take a peek at what you've been missing : http://www.graffiti.org/dj/ Including some very nice large actions on the London subway today.

SUPER STEREO
Oli Coleman is putting on a hip-hop night in Rubgy called Super Stereo. He's been running big private parties for a couple of years and now thinks they've been popular enough to transform them into a successful public event. He's got DJ Baboon and MC Arrow from the Leeds Minature Heroes Crew and Christo from Edinburgh's El Segundo. At the night there is also going to be live musicians, breakers, live art that guests can contribute to, computer animations, as well as video installations and their famous Toast Bar.
 
Venue: O'Hagan's Nightclub, Regents St., Rugby, Warwickshire
Date: Thursday 6th September
Contact : 07971 048569

TROY CLAIMS SECOND SCALP
On Thursday 9th August 2001 Troy Scalpels claimed another decision, this time in the Third battle Scars Freestyle Competition. Along with previous winners Class A and Kerosene, he will go on to battle again at the final event later in the year. Check for the (very late) review of Troy's EP on this site.

Check out www.personalrecords.co.uk for real audio and catalogue. Email: trees@personalrecords.co.uk for bookings or any other info.

ITCH FM 1ST BIRTHDAY BASH
Itch FM 1st Birthday At Subterania, 12 Acklam Rd, Ladbroke Grove. Thursday 16th August 2001.
DJS: Mk (Itch FM-Roots Munuva), Asteete (Itch FM), Semtex (Def Jam)
PAS: Skinny Man & Supar Novar + Mud Fam, Rodney P, Roots Munuva

Tickets £8 in advance, more on the door. Tickets from all Mean fiddler outlets Including HMV (Bond St & Oxford St) Tower Records (Camden & Kensington) or you can call the 24 hour Credit Hotline on 0207 344 0044 or Information Hotline on 07905 030 473.

ILLSMITH ESTATE SIGNS TO.... PERSONAL RECORDS
Yep, Personal Records the home of Troy Scalpels, has signed a new crew Illsmith Estate. Catch them and Scalpels at the Eastside Festival - Marsh Lane - London (Free Festival) Saturday 18th August. Check www.homegrown.co.uk for details. See Scalpels at the 2nd UK Hip Hop Awards September 18th www.ukhiphopawards.co.uk for more details.

Check out www.personalrecords.co.uk for real audio and catalogue. Email: trees@personalrecords.co.uk for bookings or any other info.

POWERCUT PRODUCTIONS WEBSITE GETS MAKEOVER
Steg G from Powercut Productions and Underground Street Tapes has been in touch and asked that we let you know that his website www.powercutproductions.co.uk has had a facelift and has been updated. So if you need info on some raw Scottish Hip Hop from The Freestyle Master head on over there.

Contact Steg G: steg_g@hotmail.com

DMC & SCRATCH PRESENT A SCRATCH SUMMER TURNTABLE SPECIAL
Thursday 30th August 8-2am £7 / £5 concs @ Scala 275 Pentonville Road London N1.
DMC / Technics UK Team Battle 01 - A sonic & visual feast as the UK's most experienced and exciting crews showdown to battle defending UK champions the Mixologists. 

DMC / Technics UK Battle for Supremacy 01 - After last years exhilarating debut battle, even more contenders step up to take on defending champion DJ Skully in this 90 second bout.

Scratch residents keeping you bouncing between the battles: Matt Smooth, Rob Mac, Richy Pitch.

Contact DMC for more info: info@dmcworld.com - 01628 667124 

Scratch Vol 1 out now on Rawkus.

BIGSHOECORP & THE SURESHOT CREW PRESENTS FOOTWORX
Sat 8th Sept.: DEF TEX (with 6 peice live Hip Hop band)
Sat 13th Oct.: BRAINTAX, MYSTRO & HARRY LOVE

@ The Spitz, 109 Commercial Road, Old Spitalfields Market, London E1. £6 in advance, £8 on the door. 8pm-1am.

Open mic sessions hosted by Ill Bill, Breaking action from Force 10 & Sin Cru and the Suspect-packages UK Hip Hop stall.

Web: www.spitz.co.uk

RAWGANICS - CAMBRIDGE
In a "change to the advertised programme", Rawganics @ the Junction, Cambridge on Thursday August 16th will now feature Kela (Rock Steady Crew) instead of Phi Life Cypher.

Original News. Web: www.tickets-online.co.uk. More Info: Web: www.rawganics.net, E-mail: info@rawganics.net Tel: 01223 305222, 07855 369315.

THE BBC'S NEW URBAN STATION
The BBC is hoping to launch a digital and internet radio station later this year. It will be an 'Urban' sister station to Radio 1 concentrating on 'black' music.... rap, r & b, uk garage, drum and bass, ragga etc.

The sound will be somewhere between pirates and Radio 1 - but very upfront with a host of new specialist presenters and a daytime playlist. At the moment, the BBC are waiting for the Government to okay their new services - the urban radio station is one of several. Hopefully they should hear by the end of August.

George Ergatoudis is in charge of music on the station and one of his aims is to give unprecedented support to the best in UK hip hop.

Stay tuned... http://www.bbc.co.uk/digitalradio

2001 UK DMC DJ CHAMPIONSHIPS
Now into its 16th year DMC and Technics hosts of the world's most prestigious DJ Championship have now finished 3 months worth of heats in 6 major cities around the country and have the full lineup for the UK FINALS. 

Once again DMC will stage the DMC /Technics UK Final at its spiritual home of the Shepherds Bush Empire, where over 2,000 die hard fanatics will meet armed with a personal opinion to cast over the 13 competing finalists.

Meanwhile hundreds of DJ hopefuls have practised to perfect their skills, tightening that crucial 6 minute routine in a vain attempt to become a turntable legend like luminaries such as Cash Money, Cutmaster Swift, Craze, A-trak, Q-Bert and Roc Raida to name just a few that came and conquered.

In addition to the 15 years loyal support that Technics have given the Championships, DMC welcome on board pioneering record label Tommy Boy who are celebrating 20 years at the forefront of the hip hop scene.

The UK Finalists from the regions:
Edinburgh - 1st - Richie Rufftone, 2nd - Bunty
Manchester - 1st Woody, 2nd - Prime Time
London - 1st - Skully, 2nd - Quest
Bristol - 1st Mad Cut, 2nd - Dare Devil
Birmingham - 1st Mike L. 2nd - Dixie
Brighton - 1st Tigerstyle, 2nd - Theory

Mr Thing, last year's UK Champion will not compete this year due to his busy schedule. Instead DJ Plus One (last year's runner up) will compete as Defending Champion

UK Final Friday 20th July London. Shepherds Bush Empire £10.00

World Finals September 22nd & 23rd - Hammersmith Apollo

Tickets available from ticketweb 0207 771 2000 or online at www.ticketweb.co.uk

SPREAD LOVE - UNDERGROUND HIP HOP EXTRAVAGANZA
How the heck do they do it? DJ A Trak (ITF/DMC/Vestax World Champion), Obscure Disorder (Audio Research), DJ Design (Stones Throw), Foreign Legion (ABB), Plus secret special guests!

ALL FOR FREE!!! Tomorrow night (Tuesday 17th July), SPREAD LOVE @ The Social, 5 Little Portland St. W1 (off Regent St.) 7pm-midnight

Residents DJ Yoda (Fat Lace), James Lebens and DJ Go (Mixologists) welcome you for FREE! That's right - FREE!
More info: www.spread-love.com

And tonight… THE SPREAD LOVE RADIO SHOW On www.groovetech.com 10pm-midnight with Yoda, Lebens, Beyond There and a very special US guest who we aren't allowed to mention because he hasn't officially confirmed. Bugger. Stay in - watch Real Video on your internet! It's cooler than going out! Kind of!!

HARDCORE PRODUCTIONS - THE UNDERGROUND STRIKES BACK
It is a strictly limited edition and there are several classical tracks (only uk stuff) such as First Frontal Assault (Bloodfire Assault), MC Duke (I'm riffin 1990 remix), Kobalt 60 (Kaos from order), Standing Ovation (Onslaught), Hardnoise (Untitled Promo Edition), Killa Instinct (Bambi Murders), SL Troopers (Movement), several Instrumentals and a freestyle session (MC Duke and Merlin)... the LP is available from http://hardcore-one.de.vu and is licensed product. cHECK IT now!!

RAWGANICS - CAMBRIDGE
The Dirty Stop Outs proudly present Rawganics, Thurs 16th August 2001 9pm - 2am @ the Junction, Clifton Road, Cambridge. Live PA's from: Phi Life Cypher (Jazz Fudge), Task Force (Low Life / Music from the Corner), Flaredycats (Six Deck Showcase), Delegates of Culture (Mofu), plus DJ's dropping pure hip-hop, reggae, soul & breaks:- Cris Groove (Vestax Juice 2001 Champion), S-Class (Delegates of Culture), Shiggz (Rawganics), PLUS the Scissor Tongue 2001 Open Mic Prelims for a chance to win a place in the Win-a-Mic Final. Room 2: Reggae, Roots, Ragga & Rocksteady w/ Cambridge Revelation 2000. Room 3: Breaks w/ DRK, Cris Groove & Ax Wax raw organic uk produce in the bar from vertical & supreme being. Tickets: £8 in adv & b 4 11pm, £10 after, available from Vertical, 52 King Street, Cambridge. Tel: Junction Box Office 01223 511511, Corn Exchange 01223 357851, Way Ahead (24hrs) 0115 912 9000, Web: www.tickets-online.co.uk. More Info: Web: www.rawganics.net, E-mail: info@rawganics.net Tel: 01223 305222, 07855 369315.

BBC URBAN MUSIC AWARD
BBC are looking for unsigned acts who are original, accomplished musicians, with an ability to perform well live. 20 entrants will be selected to attend heats in London, and there will be a showcase party in Sept where the final 5 acts will perform in front of a top record industry crowd... The winner will be chosen by a panel led by Trevor Nelson and will be given the chance to perform on the next series of TREVOR NELSON'S URBAN CHOICE, broadcast on BBC 2 and BBC Choice.
HOW TO ENTER Send a video, CD or audio cassette of your performance with a completed application form to:
BBC Talent,
Trevor Nelson's Urban Choice,
Room 385,
Design Building,
BBC Television Centre,
Wood Lane,
W12 7RJ

Closing Date 31 July 2001

Details / application forms available at BBC Website -
http://www.bbc.co.uk/talent
or telephone Maxine Gordon on 0208 225 8974.

TIM WESTWOOD ONLINE CHAT
Radio 1 Online are set to have an open live chat with the world's biggest Hip Hop DJ - Tim Westwood. It is scheduled to take place on 11 July at 7pm. So make sure you don't miss this opportunity to hold him to account and make him explain himself and his playlist. Remember the date and point your browsers to http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/chat, don't miss this chance to ask him to play more Brit-ish.

WIDOWMAKER - THE RETURN OF HARDCORE UK HIP HOP
The newly formed label UK Rap Records has been devised to release hard-hitting hip hop and place the hardcore sound back on the UK rap agenda.

The first release sees the signing of underground legends The Criminal Minds. Their album 'Widowmaker', which is largely a collection of unreleased tracks together with several more recent tunes, has a release date set as June 25h which is to coincide with a live performance in Switzerland on the 16th. Containing remixed classics such as 'Urban Warfare' and the banging title track plus new tunes like 'Breathe', this first release is a strictly limited edition so if you don't act fast you'll miss it. 

Copies can be reserved at http://www.dopeonplastic.de.vu.
All enquires, please contact jonkarnage@ukraprecords.com.

PHON-ETICS 1 YR OLD
Phon-etics is finally 1 Year Old, so on Sat 7th July (10-4AM) @ Po Na Na, Sheffield, Roots Manuva (Big Dada / Ninja Tune) will be giving a special live performance. Tickets are £6 Adv / £7 Door. Tickets are available in Sheffield from The Store, Fopp Records and Precinct 13. They can also be reserved by calling 07974 867 885 / 0114 267 6315.

BIG SMOKE MAGAZINE ISSUE 2 OUT NOW !
Sleeve Cover Artists A side - TASKFORCE, B side - M.S.I. & ASYLUM, Also featuring: Krispy, Ronin Records, Reveal (PGM), PQ (Social Misfits), Mr Complex & El Fudge, Cookie Pryce (Cookie Crew), Dexter (Brotherhood), Hold No Hostage plus much more. Available in HMV, Borders, Tower Records and all good Independent Record and Fashion Stores. W: http://www.bigsmokelive.com E: info@bigsmokelive.com E: subscriptions@bigsmokelive.com F: 0208 644 8389 Editor: Dirty Harry / 07946 228 513 News Editor: Nat / 07956 114 211 Sales & Advertising: Paul Bailey / 07949 780 680. Items for review please send to: Big Smoke Magazine Po Box 1002 Croydon CR9 2UF United Kingdom

JAMS TO CHECK:
Mixomatosis@Madame Jo Jo's / Brewer St / Monthly / Wed / 10 - 3am
Rewind @Tracks / Essex / Monthly / Saturday Night / 10-2am
KungFU@WKD / Camden / Monthly / Tuesday Night / 9-2am

DON'T WAIT FOR THE SMOKE TO CLEAR!

MARK B & BLADE ON NET FM
Continuing the promotion of the re-released 'Unknown' LP, Mark B & Blade are live in the house this Saturday (June 16) from 6-8pm (UK time) on Net Fm.

http://www.netfm.com

STOKIE SKATE FEST
Stoke Newington Festival will host a Skate and Multimedia festival in Clissold Park on Saturday the 30th June.

http://www.stokenewingtonfestival.co.uk/sk8n16

DAY ONE: LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT BEAT
Lethal People Promotions present the cream of old school hip-hop across BAGLEYS 4 rooms, including 'Bounce' breakdancers... The line-up includes A Joint Effort's DEAN J, Jay-R, BDK, Sonny (scratch perverts) and a host of old school names including Arthur Baker and coming in July, KOOL DJ HERC!!! FRIDAY JUNE 8th...10pm-6am. Expect to hear sounds from the likes of T-Ski Valley, Lovebug Starski, Afrika Bambaata, Grandmaster Flash, Whodini, Malcolm McLaren, Herbie Hancock, Man Parish, Whistle, Arthur Baker, Sugar Hill Gang, Digital Underground, Cold Crush Brothers, UTFO, West Street Mob, Whodini, Word of Mouth and DJ Cheese, The World Famous Supreme Team, The B-Boys, Doug E. Fresh, Kool Herc, Roxanne Shante and a host of artists from labels such as Enjoy, Sugar Hill and Street Sounds. Visuals will be there on the night and one room set-aside for some of the most slamming B-Boy dancing in the UK. Tickets available at £10 in advance from Dark & Cold, D'Arblay St, London and www.ticketweb.co.uk.

http://www.lethalpeople.co.uk

3 BREAKIN BREAD THINGS
1) There is a new venue for the club! It's in a wicked venue at London Bridge and the sessions will start again in August. 
Breaking Bread's 3RD BIRTHDAY will be on SATURDAY 11TH AUGUST.............. mark your diary! The line up so far is: MR THING, DISORDA, BORN TO ROCK, SINSTARS AND THE BREAKIN BREAD CREW.

2) The 6th release in the SEVENS SERIES is out on 11/06/01. It is by THE LIMP TWINS and the tracks are LIVING WELL parts one and two. Distributors in the UK are TIMEWARP timewarp@dircon.co.uk

3) Our radio show continues on ITCH FM 105.15, every SUNDAY 4-6pm 

Tel: +44 (0)7867 547 008 
http://www.breakinbread.org 
e-mail:skeg@breakinbread.freeserve.co.uk

NEW ISLAND LAUNCH PARTY
Friday 15th June 2001, is the night of the New Island Launch Party celebrating the opening of the personal co-operative recording studio. It will be located in E.Q.'s (AKA Harry Limes) in Southsea, in the back room using the side entrance door from 10:00pm - 2:00am, £5.

DJ’s from the Go Off Crew will heat things up along with an Open Mic session, and the IDrealists and True Focus troops will step up on the mic, showing yah ruff skillz from the best outta High Wycombe. Finally the New Island Crew and Scary Monsters will bless the mic, and spin some chunes.

Mailto:NewIslandCrew@Gleem.com
Tel Gleem: 01329 234584 (evenings only)

THE HITMEN PARTY VOL III - DARKER THAN BLUE SUMMER CLUB TOUR 2001
Yes party people we back once again... That's right it's been a month already since last month's heavy soiree. Its all happening @ Sound 10 Wardour Street W1. Date: Mon 28th May.

Dj's: Kofi, Shortee Blitz, Semtex, Davy Diamond & Olabean aka The Hitmen

P.A.'s on the night:
Ty (performin' tracks from his brand new awkward album)
Black L.I.B. (Brooklyn cats who bring it live)

Tickets: £7 in advance more on the door
Call ticket web (24hrs) 0207 771 2000 or www.ticketweb.co.uk

LAST MINUTE CALL
Calling all MC's, DJ's, Breakers, Head Nodders and Wall Holders.
We're holding a small Open Jam at The Toucan Club, Cardiff this Thursday 24/05/2001 for anyone who wants to come down and represent.

Door Tax is a mere £3 from 9.00pm.

Enta The Dragon - http://www.entathedragon.com

IDREALIST PRESENT... "SCIENCE"
@ the Bell in Maidenhead Thursday 7th June (and every 1st Thursday of the month). Introducing the full "IDRealist" Crew: Henna Cee, Celtrait, C-Lone, Chrissy Busy, Gleem, Kensta Bushyout. Playing Pure Hip Hop & Propa R&B.

For more info contact: 07976 810 469 or mailto:hennacee@ukhh.com

IDRealist... "We know OUR story... not HiStory"

NEWS FROM SOCIAL MISFIT ENTERTAINMENT
Look out for the forthcoming double-album "Sir Prestige presents... SOCIAL MISFITS - The Society Documented" from one of South London's premier hip-hop crews the Social Misfits....

Available 4th June, the Long Player will come on 2 CDs, be 40 tracks deep and will feature: The Social Misfit Crew, who comprise: Shiesty da Gypsy, Da Essence, I'ChelMee, Stone Circle, PiQue/PQ, Mizola, Overseas Edition, Debrah West, Duanne Jones, SinisterMinisterz, Forensic Techniques... plus guests: Reveal, Est'elle, Paradise the prolific one (57th Dynasty), Insane MacBeth, Nairobi Allstars, Real Elements, Saigon, etc.

CHECK OUT SOME OF THE TRACKS RIGHT HERE ON INSTANT PLAY:
ROLL WITH THE MISFIT SOULS (REMIX) – Social Misfits
http://www.hyperdub.com/kolony/audio/social%20misfits/rollrmx.asx

EMCEES COULDN’T SEE US – Stone Circle
http://www.hyperdub.com/kolony/audio/social%20misfits/emcees.asx

LIVE YOUR LIFE - Shiesty da Gypsy alongside Juicy
http://www.hyperdub.com/kolony/audio/social%20misfits/live.asx

JUST TOO MUCH TOO MANY TOO LITTLE TOO FAR – Da Essence
http://www.hyperdub.com/kolony/audio/social%20misfits/much.asx

JUST CAN’T STOP (French/Creole) - IchelMee
http://www.hyperdub.com/kolony/audio/social%20misfits/stop.asx

DAYS OF TODAY (THE SOCIETY DOCUMENTED) – Mr Roach/DaEssence
http://www.hyperdub.com/kolony/audio/social%20misfits/society.asx

EARLY UPS – SHIESTY, STRANGER & PARADISE (57th DYNASTY)
http://www.hyperdub.com/kolony/audio/social%20misfits/early.asx

ROLL WITH THE MISFIT SOULS (Original) - Social Misfits
http://www.hyperdub.com/kolony/audio/social%20misfits/roll.asx

LOST IMAGE – Pique (alongside Manifest)
http://www.hyperdub.com/kolony/audio/Pique/lost.asx

mailto:socialmisfits@hotmail.com
http://www.social-misfit.com

57th DYNASTY SCHEDULE... APRIL - DEC 2001
Record releases:
April 12th - 12”/enhanced CD single "GHETTO GOLD" / "HOLD STRONG". Released independently on fas fwd entertainments.
Late July - Video shoot for second single off forthcoming DYNASTY album DIY ETHIC.
Aug - Oct - Promo activity around second single release, including shows in Sweden, Finland & Germany.
Oct - release of second single off forthcoming DIY ETHIC.
Nov - release of DYNASTY album #2 DIY ETHIC

Shows:
May 18th - dekefex @ MASS, brixton with Shabazz the Disciple & Freestyle
May 26th - Rough & Ready Basketball Tournament - brixton rec.
June 2nd - UK HipHop Showcase @ Ocean with Rahzel
June 17th - Urban Music Seminar @ Drum, B’ham
July 13th - Homegrown @ Ocean
Aug 8th - Mixamatosis @ Madame Jo Jo’s
Plus - wait for festival dates and foreign shows & tour dates to be confirmed.

FURTHER INFO CALL - +44 (0)20 7652 3882.

http://www.fasfwd.com

WOLFTOWN RECORDINGS BLAST OFF...
MAY 21st 2001 - sees the release of VICIOUS CIRCLE's second single. It's a follow up on last year's "Bush Corner", and comes heavy with three album versions and instrumentals. "Bwoy (Featuring CONMAN)" has already been used on a mix CD that Mr. Thing (Scratch Perverts) has done for the next issue of Breakin Point, as well as being played by Disorda on his ITCH FM show. The limited edition 12" vinyl single also includes "Money Makin" and "Burglars". VICIOUS CIRCLE together with LATE and CONMAN appear in a short film called "Boxed" due out soon. Catch VICIOUS CIRCLE live with WOLFTOWN COMMITTEE at Meltdown - RICO's Night-club, Chapel Ash, Wolverhampton on Friday April 27th. Get there early it is gonna be roadblock.

MAY 21st 2001 - is the first time you will be able to get Wolftown Recordings on audio cassette. Yes, Wolftown Recordings bring the snippet tapes! VILLAINS and VICIOUS CIRCLE back 2 back on tape! You get 6 tracks chopped and cut up to create a 10 minute mix. These are limited edition - But they are FREE. Send a stamped addressed envelope to the new addy below.

JUNE 11th 2001 - sees VILLAINS back in action. The former HHC Single of the week "UK Sound" is getting a full re-release. It comes back with a 2001 Remix by producers TRICKSTA & PEZ and features updated lyrics by VILLAINS main rapper LATE and a fresh verse by label mate HIGH TIMEZ. This release will have a video (to be aired in May), 12" vinyl with the previously unreleased original instrumental, and on an enhanced CD single that will play the video.

ANY COMMENTS: tricksta@wolftown.co.uk

NEW ADDRESS: Wolftown Recordings, PO Box 1668, Wolverhampton, England, WV3 0AE.

http://www.wolftown.co.uk

BIG SMOKE MAGAZINE ISSUE 02 SHOWCASE PARTY
Step 13 Records present Mixomatosis @ Madame Jo Jo's on Wednesday May 30th 2001 10pm - 3am.

Residents: Itchi, Bustawidemove, Agent Orange and Rodney P

Performing Live: Aspects + Reveal + PGM + Tommy Evans + Jehst + PQ, more TBC.

DJ’s Sets: DJ Terror + Charlie Brown + DJ Paja

£5 entrance fee. Get there early to avoid disappointment.

http://www.bigsmokelive.com

OFF THE HOOK 1st BIRTHDAY SPECIAL!!
BANK HOLIDAY 28TH MAY 2001 A unique event lasting all day in two different locations:
Part 1 - Derby Market square -FREE ENTRY FOR ALL!!

Featuring:
ASPECTS
UNIVERSAL SOLDIERZ
BLOOD & JONEZ
MAKIF

ECLER AND SHURE present THE OFF THE HOOK DJ BATTLE - Eight of the finest up and coming turntablists will be battling it out for over £1000 worth of prizes.

THE BREAK JAM - Derby's favourite Breakers - MAJOR PROPS host an all Break jam - Anyone is welcome!!

Part 2 - Union One nightclub - £5/4

DJ CASH MONEY - Hip Legend and former DMC World Champion
KILLER KELA - The UK's Illest Human Beatbox - Jazz Fudge
CAPPO - Compering the whole event as well performing with
THE P BROTHERS (Heavy Bronx Experience)
THE MAJOR PROPS BREAKERS - 3rd Place - UK Breakdance Championships
J2, GIDGE, DAVE H (Residents)

http://www.offthehookhiphop.com

2nd UK HIP HOP AWARDS
Following the success of the 1st UK Hip Hop Awards in September 2000, Hip Hop Awards Ltd & Rapmesinjah are proud to announce that the 2nd annual UK Hip Hop Awards ceremony will be held on: Wednesday 19 September 2001 at Club Sound Leicester Square, London W1.

NOMINATIONS ARE NOW BEING CONSIDERED FOR THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:

NOMINATION RULES:
1. Nominations must be submitted in writing and accompanied by the following: recent photo; sample of material (if applicable); biog; contact phone number and contact address for each nominee; copy of video on VHS format (if applicable).
2. Material submitted must be released between 1st June 2000 and 31 May 2001.
3. Please state clearly which category or categories you would like the nominee to be considered for.
4. Closing date for all nominations is 30 April 2001.
5. Submissions do not guarantee a nomination. Hip Hop Awards reserves the right to refuse any submissions which are deemed unsuitable, or do not meet our criteria.
6. Successful candidates will be notified by 31 May 2001.

HIP HOP AWARDS **** the deadline has been extended to 21st May 2001

mailto:enquiries@hiphopawards.co.uk
http://www.hiphopawards.co.uk

NEW UK HIP HOP VIDEO....
Following on from last years successful UK Hip Hop documentary - the Pioneers, those nice chaps at the DarkNCold clothing emporium have put together live performance footage, interviews and studio sessions with some of the UKs most impressive talent all onto one tape. Its called UK HIP HOP UNTAPPED Vol. 1, and the contents reads like a who's who: MSI & ASYLUM, Task Force, 12 Stone Prooductions, 57th Dynasty Chubby Kidz, Fallacy, Mystro, Out Da Ville Reveal, Rodney P and the Planets as well as many others too. It is available in both PAL (for Europe), and NTSC (for America), and its Only £15.00 via mail order.

Dark N Cold, 31 D'Arbley Street, W1 :: 020 7287 0495

http://www.everythinghiphop.com

GET YOUR READ ON....
Everybody should mail: absenceofauthority@hotmail.com to obtain their copy of the new photocopied magazine coming outta Steel City - Sheffield. It covers the local Graf scene, Music and Art. Also out now is the May 2001 issue of Breaking Point Magazine, which features interviews with Black Twang and Skitz as well as a cover CD containing a great selection of all UK Hip Hop tracks mixed by Mr Thing. Only £2.50.

http://www.breakinpointmag.co.uk

SCARRED IN BATTLE
Respect and Props go out to Kerosene who has won the latest Battle Scars round and progresses to the final later in the year. As usual at these events the cream of London's off the dome rhymers had gathered and many did themselves proud giving stiff competition. Reveal who is getting quite a name for himself made it through to the final round and was worthy of his placing.

GIG GUIDE
We've been informed of a couple of gigs you might want to check out:
After two capacity nights MELTDOWN bring you their third event on Friday 27th April 2001 - 10pm - 2.30am @ RICO's, Chapel Ash, Wolverhampton.

Room One - UK Garage: ZED BIAS, SHADOW SNIPERS, BRETT MAVERICK

Room Two - Hip Hop: VICIOUS CIRCLE, WOLFTOWN COMMITTEE, DJ LATE

Room Three - Drum'n'bass: DJ SKITTY (Kool FM)

Admission £5.00 For more info email tricksta@wolftown.co.uk.

HIGHER LEARNING the next one is on Thurs 3rd May 2001 with a live performance from beatbox maestro KILLA KELA. DJ's on the night will be CAPTAIN (Vibez/Enta), RUFFSTYLZ (HHC), 4DEE and SECRET RIVALS rinsing out the Hip Hop in the first 2 rooms with a Special Guest (tba). In the Bottom Room Funk deejay BEN (HOBO) will be back with his unlimited 7" selection while T-BONE and MC SOBER take care of the Drum & Bass. Door Tax will be £5 for all rooms. For more info email info@brotherzgrimm.co.uk.

ENTA THE DRAGON - LAUNCH PARTY is set for Thurs 5th JULY 2001 in conjunction with HIGHER LEARNING @ TOUCAN CLUB, St Mary's Street, Cardiff. Acts for the night (subject to contract) will be JUNIOR DISPROL (look out for his amazing new e.p. under the group name FLEAPIT), JOHNNY B (New album due out on Rounda soon) and DJ OPTIMAS PRIME. Prices tbc. For more info email info@brotherzgrimm.co.uk.

MAD RABBITS
STEP13RECORDS present MIXOMATOSIS
Featuring: DJ Itchi, Agent Orange, Bustawidemove, plus resident MC Rodney P

Every 1st and 3rd wednesday @ MDAME JO JO's Brewer St, Soho, London UK
04/04/01: DJ FIRST RATE (ex scratch perverts)
18/04/01: SHORTEE BLITZ (Kiss FM Rap show)
02/05/01: EQUAL-i (Anokha)
16/04/01: DEF TEX (SON)

Also check www.step13.co.uk for all future dates, dowload free music as well. (full tracks online); for mailing list updates email: step13@unlucky.co.uk

MARK B & BLADE BACK IN BARNSLEY
All you South Yorks. heads can look out for a night at the Barnsley Student Union taking place on the 2nd May 2001. It will feature Mark B & Blade who should be pretty well warmed up by the time they reach there. After some of their previous gigs this is one show you don't want to miss.

http://www.markbandblade.com

DAVE VJ BACK BY CHOICE
After being booted out of his longstanding Hip Hop show (which he co-hosted with Max LX) on Kiss 100 FM, Dave VJ headed over to Peoplesound.com to head up their Urban / Hip Hop A&R dept., as you can tell from Hip Hop's prominence on the site. Now after his enforced absence Choice 96.9 & 107.1 FM have taken him onboard for a new show the 'Urban Music Shop' which is to be aired simultaneously on both frequencies between 12 midnight to 3am on Friday + Saturday nights - going head to head with Westwood for a few hours on Friday night. In addition to this he is reported to be getting a column in HHC and he compiled the Peoplesound UK Hip Hop cover CD for the next issue of HHC.

http://www.peoplesound.com
http://www.choicefm.net

JEHST DRIFTING THE PLAINS
Honary Northerner Jehst releases his debut EP 'The High Plains Drifter' on Low Life Records on the 12th March 2001. It is a stunning 8 track record which showcases all of what is best in UK Hip Hop. Entirely self produced guests include Universal Soldiers' Ricochet and former YNR stable mate Tommy Evans. Jehst has recently become known as a tremendous lyricist and we suggest you pick this up as soon as possible to confirm this for yourselves. It should be available in most record stores, but remember it is available from Low Life Mail Order direct, probably for less and the artists'll get more of the dosh.

http://www.lowliferecords.co.uk
http://www.mp3.com/jehst

FUSION & TEE MAX AXED!!
Longtime UK Hip Hop supporters Fusion and Tee Max's 'Hip Hop Review' show on MTV Base is to be removed from the schedule. This change follows MTV's usual pattern of initially using Hip Hop to gain an audience for a new service and then sidelining it to make way for R'n'B and more commercial jiggy stuff. MTV say that they aim to represent Hip Hop throughout the schedule, but I fear that minimal exposure will become lost in the mix. Lets hope Fusion and Tee Max can get something sorted out soon, because they would frequently have UK acts pass through for interviews and to perform freestyles as well as giving air time to the few UK Hip Hop videos that have been produced recently.

http://www.mtv.co.uk

SUMMER SHENANNIGANS
If you are wondering what to do this summer we have herd of a couple of events that may get your interest. The fist is the Global Cannabis Action on Saturday the 5th May 2001. 103 cities including London will be taking part in a march to end Cannabis prohibition. Check this: http://www.schmoo.co.uk/may2001.htm. If you just fancy a bit of sun, tits and ass instead of political action you might think about the Black Spring Break on the Costa Brava of Spain from Baby Boy Entertainment. It takes place between 23rd - 28th May.

FATBOSS IS DEAD
As confirmed by Mat C in our forum, the Hip Hop Experiment that was Fatboss has sadly finally concluded. Hit him up with your messages of condolence and let him know how you feel about the magazine. Drop a message.

http://www.fatboss.com

SKINNY SHOT
As yet we have no details of the reasons behind this incident, but on Thurs 1st March Skinnyman of Mud Fam fame was apparently wounded from a single gunshot which entered through his upper arm and exited via his shoulder. Amazingly he is recovering fast and was able to perform the very next night at an Essex showcase. Lets all wish him well and look out for his new material to drop on Titan Sounds soon.

ALL CITY RAP SHOW
XFM (104.9FM) have launched a Saturday night rap show featuring Touche, Greenpeace and Zane behind the boards. It is great that stations such as XFM are recognising the need for a specialist rap show, but after listening to the show the presenters have a lot to learn about presenting. Hopefully they can get their shit together soon with practice and develop a few ideas of their own to make it original and sound different from the competition. 

The playlist appears to be a bit more independent than that of Westwood, but isn't that imaginative or explorative, but it is another option so tune in between 12pm-2am every Saturday.

http://www.xfm.co.uk. 

RAGE THE MOVIE
Rage the Movie was released across the country on the 19th January and is a tremendous UK Hip Hop film by Newton Aduaka. Following a poor opening week because of a lack of promotion from the distributor the number of cinemas screening the film was reduced. Make sure you show your support and ask your local cinema to screen the film and co-ordinate your efforts with Newton. To help the cause Newton has set up a site at www.ragemovie.com, and you can view the trailer at www.homegrown.co.uk/ragetrailer.html. The soundtrack is also bangin' and features tracks from artists including: Mark B and Blade, Roots Manuva, Vadim, New Flesh For Old and Mello etc.

MAGAZINES
In the world of Hip Hop publications there is a whole heap of stuff going on. Stealth has put out its fourth issue and features Task Force and Braintax on the cover CD along with a whole heap of UK coverage inside. Hip-Hop Connection has been sold by Ministry Of Sound, under whose reign the magazine took an unwelcome turn into other urban/youth cultures forgetting its core mission statement as described in its title. Infamous Ink have taken over and with luck the magazine can revert to Hip Hop coverage. However with Andy Cowan still in place as editor we can still expect a commercial edge to prevail. Rago fanzine number 2 has now hit the streets and features the Wolftown crews as well as DFXO, and Moorish Delta 7. Finally, the second Me-God has dropped. It is a crazy mix of cartoons, graf and Hip Hop put together by Hercules of Cafe Recordings.

http://www.stealthdigital.com
http://www.wolftown.co.uk
http://www.caferecordings.co.uk

WESTSIDERS
William Shaw's third book - Westsiders - Stories of Young Men in the Hood is published in paperback in the UK on the 7th February. William is a white middle class guy who spent a year in South Central Los Angeles researching his stories and he has come up with a fully enthralling and intriguing read. The story follows in parallel the tales of seven characters trying to make it in the music business whilst hustling to stay alive. There are no airs, graces or patronisation here. If you read only one book this year make it this one.

http://www.amazon.co.uk

TASK FORCE SENT TO THE CEZCH REPUBLIC
Proving that they are serious about making it in this rap game, the brothers MCBain have jetted out to Prague at the end of January to play two gigs and spread the word for UK Hip Hop. Lets hope it went well for them and that this is the start of big thing to come. As well as this, they continue to guest on everything in sight and can be found lacing up the vocals of the Evil Ed 12" 'The Tournament' available from YNR.

http://www.lowliferecords.co.uk
http://www.mp3.com/task_force

DEADBEAT WEEKENDER
The inaugural Dedbeat Weekender kicks off on Friday 23rd of February for three days of phat party mayhem. Featuring high quality acts ranging from Big Daddy Kane, Jeru The Damaja, Aphex Twin, Keb Darge, Mr Scruff, Andrew Weatherall, Roots Manuva and Depth Charge amongst a host of other greats. Situated at the Vauxhall Holiday Park in Caister near Great Yarmouth, Norfolk.

Entry includes 4 star holiday park accommodation and three rooms off kick-arse beats with your weekend ticket also entitling you to use of all the parks facilities. A temporary skate park will be assembled for those wishing to bring Boards/BMXs with break dancing provided by Second 2 None and The Sinstars. Full weekender ticket including 2 nights accommodation: £85.

TICKET HOTLINES 7 days a week 10am-10pm +44(0)1493 853899 +44(0)1493 856272 info@dedbeat.net, www.dedbeat.net. 

FREESTYLE CHAMP REVEALED
16/17 year old Reveal eats rappers up to win the freestyle champs at Subterenia on the 19th December 2000. It was a tremendous show that was all about Reveal as he battled his way to an easy victory with some of the best put downs heard in a while. Reveal took out Chester P in the semis and Tony Dangerous in the final. With Doc Brown, Rodney P, Wild Flower and a host of others providing the interim entertainment it was a top quality night. Look out for Reveal coming large with a release in 2001.

BIG SMOKE READY TO ROLL
After a promo issue last year and a successful launch party in Shoreditch, E London, Deal Real Records have finally published the first official issue of Big Smoke, their UK Hip-Hop magazine. Beautifully designed and laid out by Dirty Harry it is 12" square and originally comes in a record sleeve. This one should be available all over the West End, with distribution having reached the larger chain stores such as HMV on Oxford Street. In this issue are good interviews with Blak Twang, Braintax and 12 Stone Productions and more. It is however a little thin, but some copies shouls come with a free mixtape. More info is available on the Big Smoke web site at http://www.bigsmokelive.com.

TROY SCALPELS CLAIMS THE UK NATIONAL FREESTYLE CHAMPIONSHIP 
On the 6th October at the Creation Nightclub in Bristol, 27 year old Troy Scalpels lifted the UK National Hip Hop Tour Freestyle Championship. After the original final in Southall descended into a farce as three winners were announced, the judges apparently unable to choose one MC above another. All got their £1000 prize money, but only one of the MCs was able to gamble his prize money to do it all again. So, after another two rounds, one freestyle and one battle, Troy Scalpels destroyed Reveal and was pronounced the UK National Freestyle Champion. If the other MCs had been able to be there who knows what might have happened? As it stands Troy cannot claim that he has beaten Chester P. Troy Scalpels' 'I Must Not Spit In Class' EP is out in December on Personal Records.

***In response to this item we received this message from Trees at Troy's label: Reply

LOW LIFE ON YOUR BACK 
Low Life Records have just entered the merchandising fray and have put on sale a line of totally dope t-shirts. There are currently four different designs in several colours available. The designs are all related to the recent Task Force releases, Graf Da Bus Up!?, Wha Blow and Voice Of The Great Outdoors. For info on sizes and prices check out www.lowliferecords.co.uk.

MINIMAL UK HIP-HOP SUPPORT ON SHOUT FM 
Granted a limited license, Liverpool's John Moore's University radio station Shout FM is set to broadcast temporarily from November with their output also available via the web at www.ShoutFM.com. Ginker a DJ on the Hip Hop show is keen to promote Brit-ish and has set aside 15% of his air time to spinning UK Hip-Hop. The typical play list he sent through might include artists like Task Force and Mark B & Blade, and he also expects to have UK crews and deejays live in the studio. Good news that actual time will be devoted to UK Hip Hop, but bad in the sense that this is a pitiful amount of air time in proportion the the stations entire output. Lets hope their intentions are good and that they get the main license they want and then expand the British Hip Hop air time.

AUDACIOUS POSSE CUT FROM BRAZEN
In the long tradition of collaborative posse cuts, new label Brazen Entertainments have announced the recording and release of an unprecedented 30 UK MCs on one track, the press release reading 'No air play, 30 MC's, 1 track, 1 mission'. MCs confirmed to appear on the track include MC D, Mike GLC, Reveal, Intenz, and XYZ. It is supported by Hip-Hop FM, Sim.Ent, and Dark N Cold Klothing so expect it to be big, but somehow looks set to disappoint.

DELAYED WOLFTOWN RELEASE DATES
Having made a few ripples and gaining some accolades with their first two 12 inch releases the Villains are finally set to make it big with the release of their long player now set to drop after being put back several times on October 16th. Additionally Wolftown have also announced that they will be dropping the Vicious Circle album 'Bagged Out' in Febuary 2001, with a single 'Bwoy' to hot it up in November. 'Bwoy' features label mate Conman and two other tracks, 'Money Makin' and 'Burglars'. Also out in November on 12" is the Wolftown Committee's first release 'Artform Technique' b/w 'Could It Be' a posse cut featuring Late, Profesah 194, 10Shott, Size8, High Timez, Jai Boo, Conman, Wayney G and Lee Dee with production from Tricksta and Pez. The next issue of the Rago fanzine magazine will be available late October, with features on Villains, DFXO, Moorish Delta 7, and Haych.

GETTING OUT DA VILLE
The Out Da Ville Crew are currently representing Nottingham hard with a series of releases on their own label, the latest of which is the extremely hot 'Why Is It' b/w 'Life'. Word is they intend to shoot a video for their next single 'Blood, Sweat And Tears' anticipated soon and the album 'Renaissance (The Rebirth) Compilation' following in 2001. Already reserved is the webspace @ www.outdaville.com so lets hope they fill it with something nice.

SUSPECT PACKAGES MAIL ORDER
Finally Disorda has announced the launch of the Suspect Packages Mail Order service. This will be an extension of his already successful Mix Tape business to include an extensive list of UK Hip Hop Vinyl along with CDs, mix tapes, videos and magazines. You can download his list from www.suspect-packages.com and eventually there should be an on-line shop. The site also has reviews and a scene breakdown. Disorda can be contacted on his email at Disorda@hotmail.com.

UK HIP HOP AWARDS
The UK Hip Hop scence is well lively at the moment, but still receives little exposure or recognition from the mainstream media, a prime example of this is the dropping of the Hip Hop awards from the MOBOs (Past winners include Blak Twang & Roots Manuva). To combat this the first UK Hip-Hop Awards have been launched. There are several categories, and the nominees are quite representative including Task Force, Numskullz, Riddla, Skitz, and Tony Vegas amongst others, however certain restrictions mean there are a few notable exceptions. Voting is open to the public via the web @ www.hiphopawards.co.uk and the winners will be unveiled at a ceremony @ Subterranea on Thursday 21st September. Have your say today.

UK NATIONAL HIP HOP TOUR
Intenz has put together a nice line up for what is billed as the first UK National Hip-Hop Tour. It Kicks off on the 29th July at the Tudor Rose in Southall, London and then progresses to other parts of the country including Brighton, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh. The intention is also to take the tour over to Europe and even the US. DJ's for the nights include DJ 279 (Choice and Flava) and Skitz (Titan Sounds) and Crews amongst whom the The Bury Cru, 57th Dynasty, and Out Da Ville can be found performing. Additionally there will be a £1000 freestyle competition. This tour is definitely intended to break new ground. For ticket and sponsorship information contact Brazen Entertainment on 020 7 729 9877. In the future Brazen is intending to raise its profile and drop some new material including an album ‘How Many MCs’, which is slated to feature 57th Dynasty, The Bury Crew, Messiah, MC D, Funky DL and Out Da Ville amongst others.

BANDIT'S BEGGING LETTER
Bandit from MSI & ASYLUM and Gran Kru Records has been running a campaign as you probably know, in which he is asking the Government to consider setting minimum levels for air-time devoted to Independent Underground Urban Music. Although the concerns are valid, I believe you have to be careful what you ask for, because in some respects such a ruling could simply open the doors to more rubbish or commercial music. It is admirable and should be supported for its sentiments alone. A letter and Petition was sent to number 10 and finally a response has been received from the Prime Ministers Office. The response is what could have been expected and is quite disappointing as it states that they don't want to get involved and that this is an issue to take up with the broadcasters and not the Government.

TASK FORCE SAYS...GRAF DA BUS UP!
The Highbury Hoodlumz - Robin and Joe can be found spitting on all the best UK releases and now have blown Pharoe Monch away with their version of the 'Simon Says' track, but this time they totally flip it and dedicate the whole song to getting down with your spaycan. It is a one sided, two track white label 12" featuring the re-vocalled 'Simon Says' beat and a new beat version by Skillagan. Limited to 100 copies only pick it up now along with their 'Voice Of The Great Outdoors' EP coming out on Low Life Records.

TASK FORCE TO DROP NATURIST ON LOW LIFE!
For a while now Task Force have been recognised as some of the UKs hottest MCs. After guesting on several records and their own stunning 'New Mic Order' in conjunction with Mark B and K-Boro, Task Force are set to return in the Low Life fold this June with the release of their 'Voice Of The Great Outdoors' EP. On this release, Chester P and Farma G have been given total creative freedom and the majority of the production is by the crew themselves. The EP will contain six tracks, with one track featuring Low Life's Braintax and Jehst.

UK PRODUCTION ON THE RISE
As well as UK DJs getting recognition Brit-ish producers are now getting a look in. However although these producers have turned to a handful of UK based MCs to rap on their tracks, controversially they have hired the help of US MC for most of the tracks, and some very average ones at that. The Nextmen is possibly the pick of the bunch with their debut album 'Amongst The Madness' which has been getting rave reviews from pre-release material. Of the few UK appearances Ty and Mr Thing can be found on the album. The other release in a similar vein is the Creators who have got press for their debut album 'The Weight'. UK acts featured on the album include Nottingham's Out Da Ville.

HAMSTER RECORDS DIES SLOW DEATH
Like so many other trendy kids trying to make a quick buck off the scene the Croydon Hamsters too have disappeared off the face of the Earth, leaving unpaid bills and debts in their wake. There was talk of the shop re-opening in Soho, but that'll be the day. Seems like they are working on a sneaker shop - watch they don't run out on you too!!

PERVERTS ALL SCRATCHED OUT
OK, this is a bit surprising, especially after all their recent success, but really all the ripples around this have been blown out of all proportion. The Scratch Perverts were never any super group, they were just four guys who are good at a bit of scratching and really it was all getting too much and was bound to happen sooner or later. What they did achieve is to be applauded, but there are plenty of other teams out there. Tony Vegas and Prime Cuts may continue with the name, but most likely will head off in search of pop's dollar. Harry has lots of production work to keep him busy so look out for projects with Dupa Styles and Verbal T.

SCRATCH PERVERTS TAKE DMC FINALS
Following on from Prime Cuts big win in the ITF, the resurgence of UK Turtablism continues as the Scratch Perverts take the DMC team title at the spectacular Millennium Dome venue. This is the biggest DJ comp and it is great that the title can come to our side of the Atlantic. Well done guys especially Tony Vegas who also took second place in the individual competition with a set that could have won the title its self, just being pipped to it on a judges decision going for defending champion DJ Craze.

ROOTS MANUVA WINS MOBO FOR 'BEST HIP-HOP'
Roots Manuva came above all others to take the 1999 MOBO award for 'Best Hip-Hop'. Well done, and he certainly was the popular winner deservedly coming in front of Yank impersonators Funky DL and The 57th Dynasty.

PRIME CUTS WINS ITF CHAMPIONSHIPS
Would you believe it? UK Hip Hop is definitely on the rise. The big headline is that Prime Cuts of the Scratch Perverts lifted the title at the ITF Scratching Championships. He finished in first place ahead of A-Trak, who actually won the categories. Prime Cuts is also slated to be doing a set once a month on Tim Westwood's Radio One Rap Show. Hopefully he'll be able to showcase more Brit-ish and give some rotation to some more indie-ish.

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