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

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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.

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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! This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it +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: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it 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 This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it 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 This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

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 This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

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: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

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.

This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it - Limited advertising space still available.
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it – For stockists and wholesaler information.
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it – For editorial & review enquiries including sending promo’s
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it – 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: This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it  

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 This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it 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 This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it 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 This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . 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&r