Established MC, M Doc Diego representing Rochester, NY and mega producer Manzu Beatz hailing from Italy unleash 'Universal Tongues 3.' Featuring Indigo Phoenyx, Golden, Cut Supreme, Crotona P, Bless Picasso, Napoleon Da Legend, Mav (Da Cloth), and GNyce, the 10-track project serves as the third installment of the 'Universal Tongues' series. The duo delivers an addictive dose of head-nodding Hip Hop, stream below.
Watch the official video for “1000” Words below, taken off the album.
Intimidating bars and slick metaphors flow over compelling arrangements as M Doc Diego walks through the thick streets of Rochester, NY. Never off guard, Diego's strapped with sharpened lyrical swords. “Picture perfect I paint a perfect picture the man in the mirror said I been that n*gga," along with the hook echoes.
30+ years Hip Hop vet Capital X delivers visuals for "Truth Be Told." The self-produced record serves as the first release from his upcoming album 'Just Beats & Rhymes.' X chops it up below and gives the inside scoop on the controversial video, new album, his signature style and flow to expose harsh truths, his contributions to Hip Hop and communities over the past 30+ years, and more.
MJ: When people hear the name Capital X there’s a lot that comes to mind and resonates, from Hip Hop culture to activism. Your career began in the late 70s and the early 80s first as a breaker and then as MC. Talk about your entrance into Hip Hop and your transition from breaker to MC.
X: Though I was from New York, I was actually first introduced to what would become the culture of Hip Hop in Patillas, Puerto Rico in 1977. I was visiting family and my cousin Flex was a member of the Dynamite Kids, an Outlaw Rockin crew. I instantly fell in love with everything about it. I get an adrenaline rush all over again just thinking about it. Upon returning home to NY, I sought anyone that was into Up-Rockin. I ended up getting down with the SepaRock City Crew. SepaRock was a collective of MCs, DJs, and B-Boys in the South Bronx. They were all originally from the West Indies. So I not only found a crew to throw down with, but I also got to be around MCs and DJs doing their thing. I was also instantly drawn towards the mic, but I loved Rockin so much, I stuck with it. We started working on routines that we would perform locally and we also battled whoever wanted it. I kept dancing till 1982/83. The last few years I was break dancing. I started writing rhymes on the DL. I just pretty much naturally evolved. The mic had a gravitational pull on me. I made my first professional demo as an MC in 1983/84 while I was in California. I was out there breaking and the opportunity presented itself. From that moment forward I considered myself retired from break dancing. I divorced the floor and married the mic.
MJ: You are originally from Brooklyn, NY but moved to Norway back in 2010. How is the Hip Hop scene overseas? How does it differ from here in the States? Also, talk about that major crossover and the decision that led up to it.
X: I was very fortunate to have started touring in Europe around 2005. I was shocked at the Hip Hop scene out here. I felt that the states being so oversaturated took the culture for granted compared to Europe. In Europe, they appreciated every aspect of the culture where everyone and their brother was out to be a rapper in the US and everything else kind of got ignored. In Europe, they pay homage to the pioneers and just have so much respect for the foundation that Hip Hop was built. France and Italy had the best scenes in my opinion with Germany following close. Touring through Italy and France felt like I was living Hip Hop in New York in the 80s all over again. I eventually made my way to Scandinavia. I first rocked in Denmark which also has a dope scene, then I got booked in Norway. There was and still is something about Norway that just does it for me. Though the Hip Hop scene in Norway falls short compared to other European countries in my opinion, I fell in love with the peaceful atmosphere and chill people. Coming from the hectic background I was used to, Norway felt like I found paradise on earth. I remember telling the promoter that booked me as I looked over a fjord for the first time in my life, that if I lived in a place like this, I would become Gandhi-like in no time. The opportunity presented itself for me to move to Norway and it was a no-brainer. I was tired of the killing in the US on the streets and by the states themselves. I was tired of being preyed upon by law enforcement agencies. The stress was killing me for sure. Norway remedied all that, and it healed many of the battle wounds I had sustained throughout my lifetime.
MJ: You wear many hats as an MC, recording artist, producer, graphic designer, and videographer, as well as CEO of your indie label. What are some challenges, if any, that come with being a one-man army? What are the wins?
X: Great question. I love my freedom. Freedom definitely comes at a high price though. The biggest challenge of being a one-man army as you put it is time management. There just never seems to be enough time in a day. I of course get/seek out help from time to time to lighten the load but for the most part, I enjoy being independent. You have to be good at rolling solo. Years spent in solitary confinement prepared me well for that. The wins are first of all the freedom. Answering to no one but yourself. Taking on all these different aspects truly hones one’s craft of being a creator which is also a win. Not owing anyone anything is another huge win. I remember signing my first deal back in the day. My crew all believed we had made it when we got that check. I felt that yoke being locked around my neck. For me, having less is actually having a lot more. I am not a commodity anymore to anyone. Being this independent allows me to be a true creator. That is the overall win for me.
MJ: Outside of music you are an activist, which stemmed from your time in prison. During that time you lost out on some major music deals. Upon your release, you went full throttle into creating a lengthy music catalog including 2 albums, an EP, 20 singles, and 17 videos. Talk about the moment of empowerment you thrived on fresh out of the gates, versus giving up on your career.
X: Though there was a time when I hoped to “make it” I never really looked at what I do as a career. For me, this is a way of life. Of course, getting paid to do what one loves is the ultimate goal for many artists. But getting paid or not I love what I do. Not living Hip Hop was never an option for me. During my last prison bid, I worked hard on myself. I transformed myself into who I am today. I was inspired and motivated by Malcolm X and how he transformed himself. I was so obsessed with the life of Malcolm X for many years. Cats started calling me X while I was on Rikers Island and I ran with it. I did look to get signed again when I first got out from my last bid but as a solo artist. That was in 2002. I was quickly reminded of how shady the industry is. I was spitting conscious lyrics and they offered me a deal if I would rather write gangsta raps. I wasn’t about to compromise myself so I walked. Meeting rappers such as Slug of Atmosphere, Ill Bill, and Immortal Technique motivated me to be an independent artist. I started out well, but relocating to Norway leveled me off for some years. Now that I have my feet firmly planted, things are once again starting to pick up. But I never stopped being/living Hip Hop no matter what.
MJ: This leads us to your new single/video “Truth Be Told” which is taken from your forthcoming album ‘Just Beats & Rhymes.’ You hold no punches when it comes to exposing harsh truths on how Social Media brainwashes and turns humans into robots, attacking capital punishment, calling out rappers who use their music to glorify violence, drugs, and street life, and you even, so boldly, exploit the music industry…Take us through the journey of “Truth Be Told” from the thought to creation, to production, to the final canvas, and to what audiences can expect to take away from the video.
X: When I get on a mic I feel I need to be saying something. One of my biggest influences when it comes to being an MC is Melle Mel. Melle Mel’s verses back in the day hit me so hard, that I can still feel the impact. I can’t rhyme just to be rhyming. There are plenty of lyrical acrobats out there that are way better at doing that than I ever will be. But there aren’t many slanging truths. I always loved the MCs that challenged my mind with what they were saying. Kool Moe Dee, KRS ONE, Rakim, Wise Intelligent, Chuck D, Guru they made me want to seek knowledge and I did, and still do. What better way to share knowledge and wisdom than in a rhyme? I once lived blindly and I see multitudes of people living that way today and it’s painful to watch. The microphone is where I speak the truth, you can take it or leave it. During the pandemic, I got back into production. I had toyed around with production back in the day. I actually sold my E-mu SP-1200 to help me move to Norway. After producing a few tracks for the legendary Lifers Group which is now out and doing their thing, I decided to self-produce an entire album for myself. Truth be Told was one of the first tracks that came to me. I love that you said I “boldly, exploit the music industry”. That’s how it should be, and not the other way around. With so much information out there I find it hard to believe how many artists are still willing to sign deals. To be owned. The demise of so many rappers in the last few years was definitely a motivating factor behind the track. I have also kind of grown tired of hearing the coke and gun bars as well. I lived that life for real and paid dearly for it. Our communities are nearly looking like when the crack epidemic hit back when and I feel as though as artists we can be doing better. Aside from what I have spent on equipment which isn’t much honestly, the recording, release, and video for Truth be Told didn’t cost me a dime. I want artists to know that. I shot the video using my old Samsung Galaxy S9+. I edited it in an outdated version of Adobe Premiere Pro that I jacked from a friend like 15 years ago. Making something from nothing is what Hip Hop is all about. That’s what it was in the beginning and should still be, not no million-dollar budgets. I hope that one person is moved by what I am saying enough to take action at least in their own lives. If I move one person, I am good.
MJ: Some might consider the video to be controversial, some might consider the video difficult to digest, some might want to sweep it under the rug, and for some, it might open eyes. What do you think about the adverse reactions you might receive?
X: I am used to adverse reactions to all the music I put out. For well over a decade I only spoke about the death penalty, the prison industrial complex, and the crooked criminal justice system. I got more hate mail than fan mail and more death threats than I could count on my fingers and toes. Either way, it goes, I provoke thought and spark up dialogue. I’m good with that. I think it was Plato that said “No one is more hated than he who speaks the truth”. I believe our history reflects that. The bottom line is I would rather be hated and despised for speaking the truth than be loved for spreading lies.
MJ: Does “Truth Be Told” set the tone or theme for the upcoming self-produced album ‘Just Beats & Rhymes?’
X: Actually it doesn’t. Though there are other tracks that sit well next to Truth be Told, “Just Beats & Rhymes” goes in a few different directions. A few tracks are older rhymes I dug up and felt they still deserved to be heard as they are still very much so relevant. So I created beats for them. The newer rhymes are definitely more about current social issues and topics. I also have a couple that touches upon my personal growth coming into Knowledge of Self. There are even a couple of tracks where I am just having fun with it. But you will still find a gem within those tracks. Overall the album is just what it says it is, Just Beats & Rhymes. No collaborations, no fancy production. I even went as far as using no vocal effects on nearly all the tracks. It’s just straight-up dry vocals not even a hint of reverb. Just Beats & Rhymes will drop later this year.
MJ: As a vetted artist living his life true to the culture, elements, and essence of Hip Hop for over decades, what are two essential gems you can share with the newer generation of Hip Hop?
X: Two gems I would drop here is one: learn the history of Hip Hop. Embrace the roots of this culture we all love so much. Without roots, there will be no real growth. Knowing the true history of Hip Hop is empowering to say the least. Secondly: be yourself. If you have yet to learn who you truly are, work on that, and find out. Dig deep till you reach the real you. Those in our culture that are now in their late 40s, 50s, and 60s are still active, is because they are true to themselves. They are the ones to look up to. It’s not about who has the biggest bank account trust me.
MJ: Is there anything else you would like to share with the world?
X: In closing, I would like to say I love this culture of ours. It has given me everything I lacked coming up. It gave me a history, an identity, a purpose, and a reason to live. I don’t have a mansion or fancy cars. I am far from being rich, but because of Hip Hop, I am as wealthy as they come. I don’t have multitudes of fans, but I have some real die-hard supporters and I love every one of them. By society’s standards, I ain’t shit, never was and never will be. But “Truth be Told” I have lived Hip Hop for over four decades. To me, in “My World”, I am a huge success. Never allow others to define who you are, are what your success is, or should be. Peace be unto you all.
J. Vybe, a rising Hop Hop artist representing North Shore Massachusetts presents visuals for his latest single "Thoughts Are Things." Inteligent Dizine Records offers natural soundscapes driven by moody keys and striking drums that highlight J. Vybe's emotive performance. Shot on the beach and boulevard, he delivers his signature conscious lyricism weaved with Quotables. He emanates a sense of empowerment and inspiration as he reminds us to speak our truths into existence, no matter how hard life strikes or how the chips fall. For J. Vbye one thing is certain, "No weapon against me shall prosper.” Watch "Thoughts Are Things" and connect below.
Posted by MJ Savino on December 18, 2022 at 2:17pm
Indie Detroit, Michigan rapper Dee Havior unleashes visuals to his new single "Gold Standard." The premise of the video is how people idolize hustlers for risk-taking to ensure they become established.
Dee Havior's lyrical performance embodies past experiences that made him into the artist and man we see today. His goal in the present day is to focus on his career while aiming for gold status.
Part of the hook, “This is gold standard this the paper route how every rebel where I’m from tried to make it out, if you get caught slipping n*ggas take you out" echos Dee Havior's declaration while a sonic backdrop emphasized the mightiness of the record. Watch "Gold Standard" and connect with Dee Havior below.
Posted by MJ Savino on December 17, 2022 at 4:29pm
NY's own Comet MadMen and producer Swab release visuals to "Foreign Wasteland." The track is taken from his latest album 'Authentic Kloth.'
At the beginning of the video, we see NYC streets taken over by ambulance and police lights which set the tone of the record. Comet follows suit with a lyrical bout that depicts his survival in a foreign wasteland. He stays in a zone with full tunnel vision so he doesn't get consumed by the land of the lost.
His intricate lyricism and vivid wordplay are gripping and heightened by a sonic backdrop driven by mob vibes and gritty bass. Tony Montana's audio and visual excerpts piggyback Comet's transparent tale and echo throughout the video.
D.V. Alias Khryst and producer Zay Skillz team up with Thirstin Howl The 3rd for his new video "The O.G. (Open Grave)." Howl gathers his pack of wolves on location in Harlem, Staten Island, Long Island, Bushwick, and Jersey to witness severe lyrical whip lashings on street OG's.
“The O.G. (Open Grave) is a term I use to describe the older generations of thugs who haven't matured in life by using their harsh experiences in the hood for the betterment of their families and communities” – Thirstin Howl The 3rd
A backdrop nostalgic of early M.O.P. days heightens Howl's "street" of address proclamation for thugs to flip that mentality into something positive. Watch “The O.G. (Open Grave)” and stream the single on the preferred platforms below.
The world is still buzzing from Rhymrcka's last triple assaults, "Autobiography," "Look Out Boy," and still shadowed banned "The Matrix." The verbal vigilante now delivers "GET IT!" The single/video is produced by @pesopapi223 and presented by DCM ENT, WhoMag, and Sony Orchard.
The American Cream Team/Wutang Killah Bee affiliate wastes no time executing lethal lyrical punches. He flows aggressively over gritty production that quakes the video from beginning to end. Intimidating mean-mugging expressions and rawness drive the track. One thing is certain, Rhymrcka lives his life by getting it, 24/7. Whether he's catching flights worldwide, moving through the 5 boroughs, or serving fans like feigns, Rhymrcka continues to reign in Hip Hop. Watch "GET IT!" and connect below.
LaBronx James, MC/entrepreneur/member of Lo Life Miami Family releases visuals to his acclaimed single "The Plug." The track features Thirstin Howl The 3rd with production by Zay Skillz. LaBronx displays his business genius and lyrical wizardry. Whether it's serving fans like feigns or kiting off packages, he carries the ideal remedy. He went from road to riches to now 2022 the best in the business. “I’m the plug I keep ‘em Polo down to the socks…The plug I can ship it to you get it to your block.”
Skillionaire The Polo Rican (Thristin Howl The 3rd) comes in heavy with his verse to solidify the theme of "The Plug." Cinematic melodies intertwined with hard bass, striking drums, and enticing horns amplify the message from the duo. Watch the video and connect below.
Posted by MJ Savino on February 28, 2022 at 8:36am
Dumi Right, an acclaimed emcee/songwriter/performing artist/cultural ambassador announces the release of his new single/video "Stay Focused." The track features Outspoken and Sykotek with KHz Pro on production. Dumi proves just why he's been trailblazing through the scene since the golden age. He continues to release timeless, conceptual gems as evidenced in "Stay Focused." Before jumping right into the video, check out the full interview below with Dumi Right as he shares about the inspiration and creation of the video, his role in Hip Hop, as well as current and upcoming endeavors.
“With so much going on in the world in the grip of a global pandemic, it is easy to be overwhelmed and lose focus. This head-nodding track serves as a call to action and a reminder that we should always rise to the challenge, even if the odds seem insurmountable. It also speaks to bridging the gap between generations to help propel us to a brighter Afro Futuristic plane. As the chorus implores, "Focus on the challenges we're facin', Music that'll spark elevation, Trying to change the current situation, Building with the next generation…"
MJ: For those who might be unfamiliar with Dumi Right, let's begin by introducing you. Your history in Hip Hop dates to Zimbabwe Legit, one of the first Hip Hop groups in Africa to receive global recognition. How did that experience pave the way for you as an emcee, songwriter, and performing artist?
Dumi: When I first came out, all I wanted was for the world to hear the story of a young dude from Africa, a "brother from the Mother" that had been drawn to the power and magnetism of Hip Hop. Back in 1992, my group Zimbabwe Legit dropped a groundbreaking EP that included production from Black Sheep's Mr. Lawnge and DJ Shadow. Since then, I've remained deeply immersed in the art and culture performing domestically and internationally and recording critically acclaimed albums and unique projects. I like to live by the phrase, "Don't let your past be brighter than your future" so I was never one to rest on my laurels. Even though back then we were written up in Billboard magazine, The Source, and yeah even "Word Up! Magazine" that I read from cover to cover admiring my favorite rap stars like the Biggie lyric says, I knew that if I didn't keep pushing and keep moving, I could easily fall off. When we first got started, international Hip Hop was by no means at the scale that it is today. There wasn't a well-defined blueprint on how to make the connection between Hip Hop in other parts of the world and what was going on in the US at the time, and so I had to navigate and learn by trial-and-error style. I loved the fact that we could give voice to a whole segment of the culture that many people may not have been familiar with and bring a unique perspective and view of the world through the music. Also coming out at that time meant that I was a de facto ambassador of sorts, representing a bunch of people like myself. That meant I had to come correct and make a mark because a lot of eyes were watching, and I felt the weight of people who were counting on me to be successful. Having that pressure from the get-go gave me the drive and perseverance to realize that failure wasn't an option and that I always needed to put my best foot forward. You don't realize at the time the impact what you do might have, but hearing from people how that initial splash was an inspiration is definitely humbling and very deeply appreciated.
MJ: You are not only respected as an emcee but also as a cultural ambassador. How did that role come into fruition? How does it tie into your music?
Dumi: Coming out of the international scene, I have always had a desire to connect with artists from all over the globe. Knowing how Hip Hop culture influenced and inspired me growing up and so I understood how important it was to build bridges and community globally. As a result, for many years I worked on collaborations, projects, and initiatives that involved artists from countries around the world. I later heard about a formal opportunity to practice many of the things I had been doing already, by teaching Hip Hop overseas through a program called Next Level. A DJ friend of mine had participated in the first edition of that program and he told me that it was amazing and that I needed to apply. I did and was selected to teach emceeing in Thailand a few years ago. It was one of the most incredible experiences of my music career and even my life in general. It was an extension of the work that I had been doing but it also allowed me to build with up-and-coming emcees and teach the principles of Hip Hop and performing as well as learn more about Thai culture and the people. It was an affirmation that I was doing meaningful work and strengthened my resolve to continue to be a global connector and bring artists together through music.
MJ: Your latest video "Stay Focused" features Outspoken and Sykotek with production by KHz Pro. Before we dive into the content of the video, tell us how everyone linked up with each other. The filming aspect alone of the video is incredible.
Dumi: Outspoken is one of my favorite emcees from Zimbabwe. He has insightful rhymes that address the times, and he is a very versatile artist. I have performed with him when his group visited the US and we collaborated on a previous song and video. My homie Khz cooked up this head-banging track and as I was formulating an idea of what I wanted to do with it, I realized he'd be the perfect artist to collaborate with on it. He also works quickly, and the finished product is always dope. I was introduced to Sykotek by a mutual friend and really liked the way he rhymed and the way he seamlessly transitioned between languages. He raps in English but can stop on a dime and start spitting in Ndebele and he's got crazy skills doing both. Also having previously done a song called "Doin' Damage in My Native Language" it seemed appropriate to have him carry the torch and represent that here. In addition, the three of us had collaborated last year on a Covid-19 awareness song for a project that a counterpart was putting together. That song "In These Days and Times" turned out well and our styles complimented each other so I felt we needed to do it again for this. We are all in different countries, Outspoken in Harare, Zimbabwe; Sykotek was in Johannesburg, South Africa at the time and I am based in Washington, DC but we were able to get on the same page and record music first and then later the video to bring the "Stay Focused" concept together.
MJ: What was the inspiration behind "Stay Focused"? Did the video meet/exceed your expectations?
Dumi: The song basically talks about following through on what your goals are despite distractions, setbacks, or roadblocks. It also speaks to connecting with the next generation to build a stronger community and change sub-optimal situations or circumstances that we might find ourselves in. The beat slapped so hard that I knew I needed something high energy to match it. I did a couple of different things for the chorus but then I thought it would be dope to switch it up and have someone else rock the hook and summarize the whole concept. I loved what Outspoken did with it and that set the stage for everything else. I wasn't sure if we'd be able to pull off a video given our different geographic locations, but the guys were all keen to try it out and made plans to record their footage and send it to me for editing. Another longtime friend and collaborator by the name of Magee offered to edit it all together and he did it seamlessly like the pro that he is. The footage was shot in 3 different countries, and he took the challenge of weaving the story together and he did an amazing job. It exceeded all expectations for me even though I know he's a wizard with video. He's directed and edited a lot of African Hip Hop music videos but also works in the field so has edited numerous films and documentaries, so it was certainly within his realm of capability, and it shows.
MJ: It seems at times music that offers empowerment and motivation that wake up and stimulate our core and minds, has fallen by the wayside. As an emcee and cultural ambassador, what is your blueprint to ensure "Stay Focused" doesn't take a back seat to the monotony that is being saturated on the airwaves and in communities?
Dumi: The first thing for me is not being influenced by the flavor of the month trends prevailing in the industry. Understanding who I am and what my authentic and unique voice is means I can exercise the freedom to not go along with whatever is trendy now and stay focused on my grind and the work that I'm trying to do. I also know that saying something in music might mean it might not be highlighted in those mainstream circles so finding alternative outlets and audiences to amplify the messages that we're dropping and spread the word about what we're doing. I focus on non-typical music outlets but also leverage the global Hip Hop community to find the eyes and ears that appreciate that raw and true Hip Hop sound and lyrics. Like-minded people are out there, you just have to find them. I do work in Hip Hop education and so this type of music also finds receptive audiences in those types of forums as well. And a wise man once said, "Market and promote, and you gotta hope, that the product is dope" (word to Q-Tip), so to begin with I always make sure that I put forth dope music with beats and rhymes that people are going to want to listen to. If you have a great product, when the audience hears it, they can't help but appreciate it. I also lean on my network of international collaborators to help carry the messages to fans in their areas that would dig it but I otherwise might not be able to reach on my own. So essentially building an ecosystem of progressive Hip Hop on our own, knowing that we can't count on support from the mainstream. Doing things beyond just music like workshops and panels also helps to build that community and work to "try to change the current situation" besides just dropping records. Hopefully through all these combined efforts a major impact will be felt.
MJ: Can you share with audiences and fans what they can expect from Dumi Right in 2022? New music, more collaborations, and/or other endeavors on the radar?
Dumi: While finishing up my next solo album, I ended up inking a deal with a label in the UK to re-issue one of my prior albums on a limited-edition vinyl. That will drop later this year via Chopped Herring Records. I feel like folks that cop vinyl are some of the biggest supporters and truest fans and of course that includes many DJs, so I am thrilled that we're going to be able to make that happen. The biggest news though is the impending launch of my new website dumiright.com very soon and a brand-new solo album, Dumi Right - Foreword to the Future. I'm real amped about this as it has been a long time coming but it has some pure heat on it. Guest artists include Chubb Rock, Speech from Arrested Development, YZ, El Da Sensei, Breez Evahflowin', Kev Brown (on production), Emskee and more. I had an artist in South Africa draw some ill Afro-Futuristic artwork. It will drop also on limited vinyl first and then go on all the streaming platforms thereafter. We're putting the finishing touches on it and working on the marketing and distribution plan.
MJ: Take this time to share anything else with the world of Hip Hop...
Dumi: I just served as an executive producer and artist on a compilation series, Stop Shooting Vol 1 and 2 that features emcees and producers from all over the world speaking out about gun violence and police brutality. Lots of exciting music on those two volumes including a new single called "Global Love Warming" that includes a chorus sung by Aloe Blacc. There are so many great artists on it and they all bring very unique perspectives and styles to the table so it's refreshing to hear…Please subscribe to my YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/dumirightmusic and follow me on Instagram, FB and Twitter for all the latest scoop.
Posted by T.N.T Promo on January 19, 2017 at 11:10am
French Montana's artist Cokeboy Cheeze Dior a.k.a Cheezy Dior official video for his song "Space Ship". Go and have a listen on youtube right now. If you enjoy the video than hit like up there and share it also. Be on the look out for new music by Cheezy Dior.
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