Who is a Hip Hop pioneer and what is a legend?

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Who is a Hip Hop pioneer and what is a legend?

by Popmaster Fabel

Popmaster Fabel

Peace,

The following thoughts are a follow up and further clarification to the statement I made yesterday:

“Fascinating how people appoint themselves as Hip Hop pioneers yet they pioneered nothing in this culture. Thanks to GrandMaster Caz for coining the term “lieoneer”! This term is brilliant! I piggy back on that and ask that people question the lieoneer’s by checking their “liographies”. You might fool some but you can’t fool all. People should play their positions and stop fakin’ the funk.”

pioneer (noun): inventor or innovator
a person or group that is the first to do something or that leads in developing something new

legend (noun): celebrity
somebody famous admired for a skill or talent

Who is a Hip Hop pioneer and what is a legend? The definitions above are taken from the dictionary on Microsoft Word. Both of these terms were used in their proper context back in the day. Nowadays, they are used synonymously – loosely thrown around with no merit or truly earned credit. A prime example would be a martial artist who advances in rank and degree. They earn their belts and are dubbed a higher-level student by the sensei, master, grandmaster, etc. Another example is the way Free Masons earn their degrees from an apprentice to a master mason and beyond. Those who either taught you or came before you grant you the privilege of that title. Hip Hop culture has it’s own sense of protocol and hierarchy.

We have the first generation of architects who for the most part established each component of the culture (DJ, MC, dancers, aerosol artist, beat boxers, fashion trend setters, etc.). Then we have those who either added on to their equation as innovators or just followed in suit and made a name for themselves locally or globally. Hip Hop’s pioneers are recognized and credited for their contributions and are considered legends as well. Others may not be pioneers but did earn legendary status as a result of their skill level, commitment and lastly, their fame.

In summary, I chose to write this because I feel that there are too many “Hip Hopportunists”, a word that I coined for those who fake the funk just to get over in the culture today. They tend to distort history and try to take titles rightfully earned by the true pioneers and legends. I never considered myself a pioneer or legend until my mentors, teachers and elders bestowed upon me these honorable titles. Out of respect, I didn’t mention any names in my initial post so anyone who feels guilty should question their own sense of history. Be careful how you respond to this so that you don’t add yourselves to the list of fakers or discredit others who are pioneers or legends in the process. If you want to learn Hip Hop history, you should carefully examine how it all came to be.

Bound by honor and loyalty,

PopMaster Fabel

myspace.com/popmasterfabel

 

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Lou Dobbs to Speak at Hate Rally-CNN’s Credibility at Risk

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Lou Dobbs-When will CNN Finally let this man go?

This should come as no surprise to anyone. What else can corporate media do that it hasn’t done already, especially when it comes to the issue of race and how it treats marginalized and oppressed communities.  Guys like Lou Dobbs should’ve been bounced a long time ago,  but he is apparently protected by the powers that be and he seems to pushing an agenda that his bosses agree with..

With that in mind, I suggest that people who take issue with Dobbs and his ilk, use this appearnce as an opportunity to light more fires.. While a boycott may be good.. How about us all posting a simple avatar that says No to CNN /No to Lou Dobbs.  I say turn up the heat and let your displeasure be known..hell I say demand to have a community representative who is well versed in such issues be granted a show. How smart would that be? I guess the name of the game is to not empower people in the least.

What’s interesting to note is that CNN has been slipping in the ratings with MSNBC surpassing them. One must wonder if CNN is now going to be focusing on the birther/ tonhall/ rightwing nut crowd or if they are gonna fall back and try to nurture an audience with the people their commentators like to routinely crap on?

-Davey D-

Lou Dobbs to appear at hate rally; CNN credibility at risk

August 30, 4:16 PMPortland Progressive ExaminerMichael Stone

http://www.examiner.com/x-4383-Portland-Progressive-Examiner~y2009m8d30-Lou-Dobbs-to-appear-at-hate-rally-CNN-credibility-at-risk

Lou Dobbs is planning to appear and speak at a hate rally, putting CNN’s journalistic credibility at risk. Dobbs, conservative radio personality and CNN on air personality, is scheduled to speak at a rally sponsored by FAIR (Federation for American Immigration Reform). The organization has been designated a “hate group” by the Southern Poverty Law Center.

FAIR is often criticized for running racially offensive ads. The group was founded by John Tanton, who has a long history of making racist statements and espousing racist beliefs. A FAIR press release announced that Dobbs will broadcast his show from the rally and will be joined by 47 conservative talk radio hosts. Entitled “Hold Their Feet to the Fire”, the legislative advocacy event and rally is scheduled for September 15 and 16.

Recently Dobbs has been under a great deal of scrutiny and criticism. Just last month Dobbs humiliated himself and CNN by trying to legitimize the birther movement. During and after the birther episode many inside sources thought Dobbs would be fired by CNN. His behavior and actions certainly merited dismissal.

Now Dobbs finds himself in another kettle of hot water. Dobbs has always been willing to endorse and tolerate racist views when it comes to immigration. Agreeing to speak on behalf of a known hate group is simply beyond the pale of good taste and common sense. Such an individual is a liability, not an asset, to CNN, or any legitimate news organization.

It is time for CNN to let Dobbs go. Like Beck before him, he has no place with a legitimate news organization. No doubt Dobbs will be welcomed over at FOX News, a place where racists and lunatics alike tend to congregate.

Return to Davey D’s Hip Hop Corner

 

Breakdown FM: Interview w/ Pittsburgh Rapper Jasiri X-The police State of Pittsburgh & the Upcoming G20 Summit

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Jasiri X gave a sobering wake up call about the state of affairs in Pittsburgh which has been deemed 'America's Most Liveable City'

We sat down with Pittsburgh rap star Jasiri X of the organization One Hood who talked to us about all that was going on the city which has made national news because of the city’s infamous footbal team , the Steelers winning a record number 6 superbowls. Residents proudly refer to the city as Sixburgh as people around the nation praised the city as one that has returned from the harsh economic turbulance of Steelmills shutting down and factories leaving to go overseas.  

Jasiri X laid to rest those myths by pointing out that underneath the pride and swagger is another story  as the city gets prepared for the upcoming G20 Summit. His assessment was sobering and eye opening and in stark contrast with the nationwide write up Pittsburgh had recently gotten as being the ‘most liveable city in America’. 

 Most notable in this interview was Jasiri expressing profound disappointment in the way President Obama has allowed a number things around the issues of poverty and police brutality slide.  There were many within the organization One Hood who spent countless hours registering people to vote and taking them to the polls only to have them and their community overlooked when Obama’s aid Valerie Jarrett came to town and made shocking statements  about how economic hardships have not befallen Pittsburgh. Jasiri talked in great detail about the immense poverty that still exists in many of the city’s Black communities. He talked about how gentrification and new developments have worsened things not made them better.

He talked about the on going police harrassment and terror residents are experiencing on a routine basis.  He talked about how the Pittsburgh police department has been making practice runs for the upcoming G20 summit, in the Black community. They been using all sorts of new crowd control and surveillenace techniques in the hood.

Jasiri X talked about how the police have been showing up in the hood with army tanks and extra man power even though several officers have been killed in in neighborhoods outside the hood. Pittsburgh is becoming a police state with all sorts of laws restricting people’s movements being put into place. Among those victimized by this new crackdown are people activist/journalist  Paradise Gray of X-Clan. He was recently arrested on trumped up charges when he came to film a protest that people were having against gentrification.  Many feel Gray was arrested so he could be on the books and face stiffer penalties should he show up to film or protest at the upcoming G20 summit.

Jasiri talked about how officers have been put on notice that if they leak out any information about security plans for the upcoming G20 Summit, they will be terminated. Sadly no officer has been terminated for committing acts of brutality. He noted how the city has been hiring police outside the city of Pittsburgh and how its caused a lot of tension and unrest.

Jasiri talked about how all protests in city parks have been banned in preparation for the G20. All permits have been denied including one solicted by a Pittsburgh legislator. 

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Breakdown M Podcast Interview w/ Pittsburgh Rapper Jasiri X

http://odeo.com/episodes/25040378-Jasiri-X-Pittsburgh-the-Police-and-the-G20

 

 

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Breakdown FM: An Interview w/ Chali2na-Like a Fish Outta Water-2Na Goes Solo

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7F-qIXe9PA

We spoke w/ former Jurassic 5 rapperCharli 2Na on Breakdown FMwho is now rolling solo in the aftermath of the group’s breakup.
We covered a number of topics including:

1-Charli 2Na speaks on his popping and strutting abilities.  Breakdancing/ BBoying is what first attracted him to Hip Hop. We spoke to Charli about this because during his live shows its not unusual to see the brother bust a few moves.

2-We spoke about his Chi-Town (Chicago) upbringing and the influence house music had on him and his music. He noted that House was always an present to the point that he eventually sought out different types of music to explore including Hip Hop.

3-We talked about his Curtis Mayfield inspired song ‘Righteous Way’. He talks about how he wanted to write a song that connected various generations of his family. He sampled Curtis Mayfield’s ‘Making of You’

4-We spoke about today’s hip hop audience and whether or not they will accept and appreciate history, complexity and depth. Charli 2Na explained that reaching today’s audience can be abit of a challnge but he only knows how to speak to his audience in a mature way and refuses to dumb himself down. Its important that Hip Hop have a variety of voices  and artists find lanes that allow their art to truly shine.

5-We spoke about Charli about parenting which is an increasingly engaged topic amongst those in the Hip Hop generation. 2na now has a son who is in college and he talked about the types of adjustments he’s had to make.  Currently his son is one of his best friends who acts as a de facto A& R guy by keeping his dad on top of things. If his son likes it.. then Charli knows he’s in the pocket.  We talked about Jurassic 5′s landmark song which dealt with this issue of parenting called ‘Contribution’ .

2na explained that he learned how to parent from seeing and experiencing what his absente dad did not do. He was determined not to repeat that pattern with his own son. He talked about how he and pops eventually reconciled. He also talked about the close relationship he had with his grandmother who picked up the slack while both his mom and dad dealt with their own demons.

6-Also along the family tip we with Charli 2Na about his younger brother Semaj who now travels with him, is an incredible rapper in his own right and is part of the band. 2Na explained that his younger brother who is 11 years younger has his own group called Live Radio and for years did not tell him about his rapping abilities nor come to 2na for help when he and his group got things rolling. Charli spoke about how proud he his of his brother because he made his own path and in many ways has surpassed 2na in the things they accomplished when compared to what Charli was doing at that same stage in his career. For example he noted that Semaj and Live Radio has already opened for KRS on several occassions and have done quite a few shows around LA.

Eventually 2Na pulled his brother and the group aside and spoke to them forthrrightly about the pitfalls they should avoid as a group. He noted he gave to them the same advice that Hip Hop pioneer Grandmaster Caz gave to the than young members of J5. He told them the steps to take and outlook to have to avoid jealousy and petty rivalries within the group. He talked to them about communicating etc. 2na admitted that unfortunately what Caz talked about was not fully heeded and J5 fell apart.

7-Lastly we spoke to 2na about the tragic and painful death of his cousin who was like a sister to him. They grew up in the same household.  Her name was BB and she was trampled to death during an infamous nightclub fire that took place in Chicago a few years ago. She went to get her coat when all hell broke loose and people panicked inside the club. BB fell and was crushed by hundreds of club goers. 2na immortalized his cousin and the incident in the last song on his album. Its a heartwrenching touching song that includes BB herself speaking to her cousin on one the last times they saw each other.  For 2Na to open himself up like that is one of the reasons we will always like and appreciate what he means and brings to Hip Hop.

8-Joining us in this interview is Charli’s good friend Supernatural. the two share with us the influence eacha have on one another. Supernat talks shares with us some insight to 2na’s writing style and overall process for recording and eventually releasing songs.

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Breakdown FM Podcast-Charli 2Na Like a Fish Outta Water

http://odeo.com/episodes/25027942-Charli2Na-Holds-It-Down-Like-a-Fish-Outta-of-Water

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Return to Davey D’s Hip Hop Corner

 

A History of Black-Brown, Unity, Tensions & Struggle

Former SNCC member and Professor Mario Salas

We sat down with Professor Mario Salas of San Antonio’s NW Vista College and talked with him about the history of Black-Brown unity here in the United States and in Mexico.

Salas who is mixed Black and Mexican and a former member of SNCC  gave us a serious lesson that touched upon slavery, colonialism and the back drop behind some of the famous wars along the border of Mexico and Texas.

Salas started out by talking about the history between the Black Panthers and Brown Berets who are still active in San Antonio. He talked about how recently the Berets came to the aid of the African American community and helped them get a community radio station. he explained that the two groups were always able to work together because the Panthers didn’t employ cultural nationalist politics. Both groups had a revolutionary philosophy which allowed for coalitions to form.

Salas talked about the original Rainbow Coalition which was conceived by Chairman Fred Hampton who headed up the Chicago chapter of the Black Panthers. This was years before Jesse Jackson came along. The basic premise was for groups to unite around principles. One could and should have cultural pride but not at the expense of dissing or excluding other groups.

In our conversation we talked at length about immigration and how that issue has been framed and narrow-casted to only have a Brown face. Today when we say immigration we think of Mexicans trying to come to the United States and forget that there are dozens of African ethnic groups facing similar challenges in other parts of the country. Most notable are Haitians.

Salas gives us an insightful history into immigration history along the border which includes shedding light on Poncho Villa who he explained was half Black and commanded a Black army. Salas talked about how Buffalo soldiers deserted their position in the US Army and went to fight for Poncho Villa. He also talked about an army of made up of African women who came from Mexico. Salas also talked about the Afro-Mexican population in Vera Cruz.  He also talked about the African influence on ‘mexican’ culture including the song La Bamba which was made famous by singer Richie Valens. He explained the song and word are African in origin.

During our interview we talked about language and how both Africans and Mexicans who were originally indigenous. Professor Salas talked about how the Spaniards literally beat the native languages out of Indigenous peoples and forced them to speak Spanish. he talked about how people were beaten in the streets of Mexico City until they spoke Spanish. This was similar to what happened with African slaves brought over to the US were beaten until they stopped using their native tongue and spoke English. With regards to Mexicans people crossing the border were beaten until they stopped speaking Spanish and started speaking English. I’m not sure people realize the level of brutality that was imposed upon slaves and native peoples by those who colonized these lands. Salas went on to add in great detail about the origins of Mexican identity  and how this led to the  erasing the history of indigenous people’s tribes and cultural heritage.

We spoke about the Battle of Alamo where Professor Salas explained that it was essentially a ‘slave owner rebellion’  that centered around  Mexico’s President at the time whowas Afro-Mexican banning slavery.  He gives the full history of  this and talks about General Santa Ana who is immortalized in the break beat song ‘The Mexican’ by Babe Ruth

We talked at length about the caste system in Mexico which was imposed by the Spaniards who brought over 300 thousand African slaves and forced to breed and marry to lighten up the race.  Salas explained that certain last names were given to people to indicate that they were African vs Native. Names like Moreno and Grito are two of the many.

We concluded into our conversation by talking about the challenge both Blacks and Browns have in the US. They include buying into White Supremacy, Sharing Power and avoiding Divide and Conquer tactics.  Salas said it was important that we support those who share the same goals and principles and not just a Brown or Black face. he talked about the miscalculation it was for some Black organizations to support Clarence Thomas and for some Mexican organizations to support Alberto Gonzalez. Salas noted that we should all strive to have a global perspective, be fully engaged and aware of policies we have toward Latin America and to connect the dots where ever possible.

We also talked about the opportunity and role that President Obamahas in enhancing Black-Brown unity. We talked about regional differences and how Black Brown unity has different faces and challenges in various parts of the country. Texas has a unique history which is different then what takes place in California which is different than what takes place in New York or Miami. He noted in Texas the history may even be different in various parts of the state. For example, in east texas, the culture is more Southern. In other parts Texas is much more Southwestern.

Professor Salas suggested we read books like ‘Black and Brown’ by Gerald Horne which is filled with historical facts and highlights points of unity. He said we should also read Texis Devils by Michael Collardwhich focuses on the history of ther Texas Rangers who were essentially a Ku Klux Klan force that terroized the Mexican population in Texas.

Below is a video which gives a short exceprt of our conversation.. T o hear the entire entire peep our Breakdown FM podcast

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Breakdown FM Podcast: Black and Brown Unity-The History

http://odeo.com/episodes/25043444-Black-and-Brown-Unity-pt1-The-History

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlSM4p5fkQQ

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Black and Brown Unity pt2-the Immigration Debate

We spoke with popular Washington DC based blogger Carlos Quiroz  from

Carlos In DC

Washinton DC about Black-Brown Unity and Immigration reform.. During the Immigration Panel at Netroots Convention the topic of Black-Brown unity came up and generated a lot of discussion both within and outside of the panel…

The main concerns that were raised was the types of prejudices and disdain being expressed on the left as opposed to the right side of the political spectrum. The question was raised as to whether or not in cities where there are Black/Brown tensions like Los Angeles, if there would be a manipulation of rage in the same vein that fear was manipulated during the Healthcare debates. Expressed was the concern that ‘spokespersons’ for our respective communities would be handpicked by corporate media outlets so they could go on various shows and espouse inflammatory remarks. Thats definitely been happening in LA.  

In this discussion we cover a lot of ground. We dwell into those questions and more. Carlos who is Peruvian drops keen insight into how colonialism has impacted the way people view race in many parts of Latin America. He talks about the opportunity to build coalitions and how that is happening in some places.

Also featured is our comrad Faviana Rodriguez, a popular artis/paintert out of Oakland. We build with her on this topic as well. We talk to her about the role art and cultural expression play in politicizing people and moving folks to action..

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Breakdown FM Podcast: Black and Brown Unity pt2-The Immigration Debate

http://odeo.com/episodes/25043313-Black-and-Brown-Unity-pt2-the-Immigration-debate

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Adding to this discussion is the interview I did I  for Carlos’ blog here are the links to that…

http://carlosqc.blogspot.com/2009/08/african-american-and-mexican-racial.html

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5ScoavEyRU&feature=related

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Republicans looking for ‘great white hope’ to counteract Obama? Congresswoman says she didn’t mean it that way

I thought the GOP’s Great White Hope Was Sarah Palin.. Boy the racism just don’t stop.. Folks need to check out Birth of a Nation and the history behind it.. The upward mobility of Black folks during the reconstruction caused an uproar.. The anger that so many whites in power were feeling was indescribable.. You see this now..

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Top of the Ticket

Politics, coast to coast, with the L.A. Times

Republicans looking for ‘great white hope’ to counteract Obama? Congresswoman says she didn’t mean it that way

August 27, 2009 |  5:21 pm

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/washington/2009/08/republicans-looking-for-great-white-hope-to-counteract-obama-policies-congresswoman-says-she-didnt-m.html

One of the instructive (and occasionally entertaining) aspects of the presidency of Barack Obama, the nation’s first black commander in chief, has been the intermittent surfacingof traditionally submerged racial attitudes. These incidents often take form as slips of the tongue, or perhaps “jokes,” that may or may not indicate racism. But the reaction to such statements serves to remind those in the public glare that potentially offensive references to race — whether deliberate, accidental or unconscious — will be ruthlessly picked apart in the blogosphere. 

Especially if you are a Republican. (Macaca, anyone?)

The latest pol to receive a self-inflicted egg facial is Lynn Jenkins, a freshman Republican congresswoman from Kansas, who according to the Associated Press told a group of constituents Aug. 19 that the GOP is “struggling right now to find the great white hope.”  She added: ”I suggest to any of you who are concerned about that, who are Republican, there are some great young Republican minds in Washington.” (Poor quality video is here. Comment is at about 50 seconds.)

The tape was — naturally — turned over to the Kansas Democratic Party, whose spokesman pronounced Jenkins’s remark “a poor choice of words.”

Later, at another event,  Jenkins pleaded ignorance: “I was unaware of any negative connotation,” she said.  “And if I offended anybody, obviously, I apologize.”

Now, we don’t expect all of our legislators to be fans of boxing — nor even theater or movies, for that matter. But we find it strange that an educated person such as Jenkins, who is a certified public accountant, never knew that the phrase “great white hope” is freighted with racial animus.

“Great white hope” was coined early in the last century to describe the search for a white boxer who could regain the world heavyweight boxing title from Jack Johnson, the first African American to win it.  Johnson — and the ugly reaction of many whites to his 1908 victory — was the subject of the 1967 play “The Great White Hope,” which won a Tony for actor James Earl Jones in 1969, who also starred in the film. In 2005, PBS aired a Ken Burns documentary about Johnson, ”Unforgivable Blackness.”

Liberal blogger Matt Yglesias over at Think Progress believes a comment like Jenkins’ should not shock anyone: “Now to be fair,” he writes, “there are virtually no nonwhite Republican members of Congress, so in suggesting that the party’s future hopes rest essentially on white talent, Jenkins was arguably just stating the obvious.”

Ouch.

– Robin Abcarian

Photo: Lynn Jenkins addresses her use of “great white hope” today in Kansas. Credit: Associated Press

 

Kanye West vs George Bush-The Katrina Mix-We Remember 4 Years Later

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This is a Hip Hop audio mix that captures so of the thoughts sounds surounding the nation’s worst tragedy in history… In this mix you will hear from people like former Black Panther H. Rap Brown, rappers Juvenile & Master P, Mayor Ray Nagin, reporters Sam Sheppard and Geraldo Rivera and of course Kanye West and George Bush

Below is the link to the mix

Kanye West vs George Bush-The Katrina Mix

http://www.swift.fm/mrdaveyd/song/60030/

This is a audio mix that speaks for itself.. 5years ago.. Monday August 29 2005 Black America got her own 9-11. She was hit with an act of terrorism in New Orleans that was just as devastating if not more than what took place when those Twin Towers were felled by planes… Yes, you read that correctly.. Most people mistakenly believe that the city of New Orleans was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. Lets make sure folks understand this once and for all.. Much of neighboring Mississippi was destroyed by HurricaneKatrina which hit the state with its full level 5 impact.

New Orleans which was initially in the path of Hurricane Katrina was spared at the last moment… What hit New Orleans were winds that were around level 3.. The devastation that took place in New Orleans was the city’s levees broke and the entire 9th Ward and other parts of New Orleans was flooded. Did the winds break those levees? Was it the surge of rushing water?  Thats what’s been suggested. That’s what then President  George Bush told us.. Well here’s the deal.. New Orleans was hit by several acts of terrorism. It started on Monday August 29th 2009 when those levees bursted open..

We attended the International Tribunal for Hurricane Katrina and Ritain 2007 and heard 4 days worth of testamony from residents who were still displaced from their homes. This tribunal was one that was conveened by former Congress woman Cynthia McKinney and a number of organizations in New Orleans. There were a panel of judges who came from all over the world who listened in shock as horror story after horror story was told of what went down in the aftermath of Katrina. The most telling testamonies came from resident after resident who talked about hearing a number of large explosions nearwhere the levees were breached. Talk to the residents of the Lower 9th and they will tell you emphatically those levees were blown up.  After hearing so many speak and documentaries made, where its been emphatically suggested that 9-11 was an inside job, why wouldn’t the blowing up of the levee fall under the same cloud?

But if that’s hard to swallow, lets look at the testamonies that came from engineers who did independent studies. Professor Robert Bea who headed up the engineering team from UC Berkeley spoke at the Tribunal and spoke for a couple of hours where he painstakenly showed how the levees were designed in such a way that they were ‘destined to fail’.    So negligent were the designs that one could only conclude that it was deliberate-hence an act of domestic terrorism.

We heard the horric accounts of police shootings, and vigilante killings of Blacks by roving mobs of whites. Former Black Panther Malik Raheem put together a documentary where he captured white residents bragging how they had gone on pheasant hunts to shoot Blacks seeking refuge in one of the unflooded parts of the city. He estimated there were more than 200 killings. He showed bodies of Blacks who were shot in Algiers in his documentary ‘Welcome to New Orleans’

Again, the terrorism experienced came in the aftermath of Katrina here entire communities mainly poor Blacks were run out of the city with most never to return.  I recall when San Franciso and the Bay Area was devasted by the 1989 earthquake. The entire Marina district in San Francisco home top the wealthy was destroyed. Within a year those houses were fixed. The Bay Bridge that collasped was fixed. The 880 highway that collasped was leveled and eventually replaced.. But the homes in West Oakland where the poor lived still had visible damage 5 years after the quake. In New Orleans 5 years after Katrina we still have the Lower 9th is disrepair and many of the folks still scattered around the country.  If thats not terrorism what is?

something to ponder

-Davey D-

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How I feel bout Regionalism, East vs. West Coast & topic of East Coast Bias!!

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How I feel bout Regionalism, East vs. West Coast & topic of East Coast Bias!!

By DLabrie – www.hiphopcongress.com – Comment & RT

I’ve been processing the roots of the East vs. Westsince getting into Hip Hop or I’d say at least shortly after, being that I came of age during the rise of West Coast dominance. I also caught the East Coast movement in full swing when I was younger back in elementary. Despite being  from Oakland, California like many others my favs wereGangstarr, Poor Righteous Teachers, KRS, Kid N Play, Salt & Pepper, and Big Daddy Kane.

I’d say a lot of early West Coast Hip Hop favored the East coast sound the beats and rhymes were much faster and grittier from Hammer to Cube, Ice T, even N.W.A, King Tee and Too Short. There was definitely influence, love, and admiration for N.Y. It was a rap thing, as we all rooted for the underground phenomenon that would soon grow to sweep the world. Most of the music that was big at the time was East Coast that was the standard. There was even a battle between Self Destruction and All in the Same Game. Which one was better? However that doesn’t mean that hip hop wasn’t goin’ on in its own way in other places and it doesn’t mean that N.Y. has all the rights to Hip Hop.

Hip Hop is a hood thing a black culture (and now multi cultural) thing. KRS told me himself when I toured w him in 2005 that Elements of Hip Hop were already firmly embedded in places like Oakland, Chicago, Texas and Seattle. No doubt the East pushed the movement 1st. Afrika Bambaataa and the Zulu Nation being credited with being the 1st crew to take Hip Hop around the world. It was nothing to hear or see X-Clan, Mc Lyte, LL Cool J, Dougie Fresh, on the radio or on a video as the standard of Hip Hop back then. I was a fan, and I would say I liked it more than West Coast rap because I myself was brain washed by the biased back then, but also because the music was dope and the East was runnin’ shit.

 I had this convo with Crooked Iat Rock the Bells jus a day after the altercation (between Budden & Raekwon) in L.A about West Coast lyricism and growth and how that is perceived by fans. I felt that him coming from the Death Row, but also finding respect amongst Hip Hop purist it was a relative discussion.

My and my cuzzin Ayinde who got me into rap in The Town (Oakland)

Weezy & DLabrie All Star Weekend in Denver,CO

As I started to emcee early in high school the tide was turning. Snoopwas out (who for yall who don’t know was label mates w Crooked at one point)…and every car goin’ by was “bumping” The Chronic by Dr. Dre, but I had Redman What TheeAlbum in my walkman, I was into the wild styles of N.Y. which had lyrics u had to decipher, I was tryna escape the harsh realities of West Coast in your face rap, which I lived amongst everyday not just in rap but as a young man in East Oakland.

My older cozen’ Ayinde who knew EVERYTHING about rap started playing what he called underground rap for me I specifically remember 93 til’ Infinity, Protect Your Neck, Come Clean singles. I was hooked this was the same cuzzin’ who used to sneak play me “Davy, Davy Crockett bring on the wild frontier” and “You don’t have to front on me bitch” when I was arguably too young by our parents standards. But by now I was gravitating to groups like Pharcyde, Souls of Mischef, Tribe Called Quest and The Alcoholiks. The1st thing I heard from E-40, Mac Mall or RBLfans was “You like dat East Coast soundin’ shit, you aint from Oakland.” (all this while I’m standing on Oakland soil lol).

Funny thing is I had E-40, Too Short, The Luniz, Spice 1“tapes” too, all whom I see to this day as some of the best lyricists ever. It was like u had to choose. When I would spit everyone would say u can rap but you got that East Coast flow. I was seen almost like a traitor, niggaz would say “move to NY”, or “Your raps make no sense”, “you be usin’ them metaphors” (too quote Common“These is Similes”). I didn’t all the way get it. I jus liked the sound. Maybe I was denying my roots, or maybe the West was being generalized. I didn’t have a Jeri Curl (Lauryn), gang bang , slang crack or even smoke weed at the time. I rocked oversized head phones, wore 1 pants leg up, and freestyled, tagged, and played hoop w non hangin’ dreds and there were many like me.

Baatin of Slum Village (R.I.P) & DLabire @ both performing University of Michigan

To this day I realized I wasn’t the norm but I also wasn’t alone. This was all part of my growth as an artist at some point The “Box”became the medium you could see East Coast, South Booty Shake, West Underground, local Oakland indie music… It actually almost turned the tide because for once you could rep your coast and not be forced to hear East Coast only. Finally things were evening out a little. The Bay was full of home pride Mob Music compilations, Hiero was doin’ songs w Tribe. and the East was kinda quiet in the mainstream outside of the Native Tongues / Nas/ Wu movement which wasn’t as big out west (at least amongst West purists). The west was sellin’ unbelievable amounts of records. The boom-bop sound of N.Y started bein’ known as Underground rap and you had to listen to the Wake Up Show or go to Berkeley to hear that here.

Long before the Southern dominated radio waves of today West Coast raised groups from the South who also followed in the footsteps of The Geto Boys & Luke started making noise w groups like Outkast, who were once accused of sounding like Hiero, and Swagger Jacking the Bay w “Players Ball”and groups like UGK, Eightball & MJG, Master P, Mystical, Goodie Mob, Trick Daddylines were getting blurred. The East even then was not really feeling the South and this formed a common bond between West and South. I recall Outkast was booed for winning “Best Rap Group” Source Award in 1995 where the event was hosted at Madison Square Garden in N.Y

M1 of dead prez, DLabrie and Dave Chapelle in San Francisco,CA

Of course 2pac played a big role during this time he was uniting the West Coast and after being shot in N.Y, going to jail and signing with Death Row he emerged a cult like figure especially out West. Suge vs. Puff became Pac vs. Biggieand eventually Death Row vs. Bad Boy. 2pac was warring with the East with much success along with Westside Connection(Ice Cube, Mack 10, WC super group formed to finally address all the East Coast hating, and set the record straight). But Tupac Shakur was originally from Brooklyn, came up in the Bay and soon became the spokesman for L.A. He had Meth and Red on his classic ALL EYES on ME. Death Row was SMASHIN on the game.

Hmmmmm how did this happen? I almost missed the East coast sound at times. Pac went at everyone with a vengeance and the “WESSSYDE” tradition and throwing up the dub was formed. He even had public feuds with West Coast counterparts Snoop and Dre at some point who were no strangers to feuds w the East Coast. It seemed as if the East Coast was on the ropes. Especially after Hit Em Up, Pac had a lot of fans not feelin’ Notorious, Junior Mafia, Jay-Z, Nas, Mobb Deep, and cosigning venomous lyrics spit at other East Coast legends.

When Makaveli passed a lot of people felt the West Coast died with him. Think back of all the artists who were a part of that movement (not the dissing movement, but the One Nation Movement) on a national scale. The Outlawz, Yukmouth & Numbskull aka The Luniz, C-Bo, Dru Down, E-40, B-Legit, D-Shot,Suga-T aka The Click, Doggpound, MC Breed, Bone, Richie Rich, Digital Underground, Even east Coasters like Boot Camp Click and Treachto name a few. You can basically refer back to his rap army by hearing any Pac CD or peeping his many cameos. Many would argue he single handedly took on the East and settled the score. One thing that can not be argued he inspired a whole generation.

Mistah F.A.B & DLabrie at Bay Area Rap Summit in Oakland,CA

Let’s back track a little. When I 1st saw Biggie’s video Juicy(long b4 I knew who Puffy was) I jus knew for sure he was from the West Coast the flow, the sample, the laid backness of the song. Who knew he’d become the “King of N.Y” one day. I remember when Jay Z dropped Aint No Nigga, in Oakland we were like “this nigga stole Dru Down beat” at the time Dru Down was a signed artist nationwide I’d say maybe bigger than Jay-Z (this is up for debate).

My OG homie Lil Jof the group Flawless (who at the time was the number 1 example of West Coast bias lol ) out the blue came thru bumpin Reasonable Doubtin his firebird. I wasn’t interested at 1st, then I heard the slaps and was like okay. I noticed that Biggie, Jigga, and the East Coast sound was appreciating what we do out west and our style (Biggie said on Ready to die he was tryna’ figure out “how to sell record like Snoop”). the music was becoming less abstract more in your face. Pun, Mase, DMX, The Lox,Camron, Ja Rule, Lil Kim, Evewere all giving the West props and kickin in your face gangster shit (which I realized over time was always in East Coast music just spoken in different slang). The remix era was here and artists were working together from ALL Coasts!!

DLabrie signin autographs in Seoul, South Korea

The East Coast bias was losing steam more and more. Too Short was on Jay-Z and Biggie’s albums – Bonewas out (everyone had a Bone flow song for a minute lol), shit was everywhere. The Midwest was coming up Eminem, Nelly, Twista, Commonwere on the scene hard. The internet and technology era emerged ushering in the true “independent” artists we are more familiar with today. Fans began finding there music online, and artists were able to burn there own CD’s and push music thru early Music & Social Networking sights like Rap Station and Black Planet. This was the beginning of the Digital era. At this time I didn’t even know how to use email. Groups who were not on major labels started seeing opportunities for indie expansion. Groups could tour without a deal and get music to fans without distribution.

To say u listen to East Coast style rap was becoming a statement a lot harder to define. In these days that term doesn’t even stick with artists like Jim Jones, Murs, Jay Electronica, Mistah F.A.B and Slaughterhouse even w me DLabrie- I get love in N.Y. for my True lyricism and also for my Hyphy ties. My Homies from the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens they go dumb w me when they hear my single Pity Patt produced by Bay Heavyweight Traxamillion – (Check it out here – http://bit.ly/YW0nC ) they even ask me to spit that “Bay” shit and show them the town flavor. Sometimes I have to remind them I grew up on N.Y. rap and some of my fav MC’s ever are Hip Hop purists like Wu Tang, Def Squad, and Da Bush Babies. My point is this….it’s Hip Hop……. West borrowed from East, South borrowed from West, Midwest soaked game from all over, East borrowed from Jamaica, Disco, Cowboys, R and B, Soul, Rock. We have covered the gamut, now International MC’s are borrowin’ from American Hip Hop. It’s a cycle. We have to let the old terms go. It’s been a journey for me to find my voice as an emcee. I can rock on a cut with Mos Def or Luda, hood homie Keak da Sneak or a cat who don’t speak English Overseas. I’m still Hip Hop. “Backpackers/Conscious” rappers are fed up w the stigma, “Political” rappers are sick of being held to unreal expectations, “Gangsta” rappers are pourin’ they heart out. No one wants to be put in a box anymore. All bets are fuckin’ off now. I hear rappers sayin’ when will the real rap come back, or bring back the real hip hop? Jus do you!!

Promoter Victory & DLabrie in Times Square, N.Y

Let’s evolve and stop this bullshit. If you old school do you, if you with the new shit do you. I rep the Bay hard as fuck all day to the point where I still get mad when Bay cats diss Hyphy or the Bay in general but to each they own. I don’t take it personal. I don’t decide no 1’s opinion on hip hop and how they feel and vice versa. But also I don’t wanna hit the road and be seen as jus the “Hyphy” dude either just cuz im from Oakland ‘cuz then u think im one dimensional. That’s not like my MC tag or nothin. Nor is it the Bay’s only style anymore than Crunk is ATL’s only style.

I rep the whole West Coast now Seattle, Oregon, Vegas, Cali, AZ, Southwest ! Im still pissed XXL did a whole article on Hip Hop and R and B and didn’t mention the West Coast AT ALL (barely the South) and acted as if the 1st big song of this nature was Method Man and Mary J. Blige or Rakim and Jody Watley(with all due respect). At the Same time a lot of my favs new and old are in N.Y. and the East Coast in general and I always get my game face on, and get a lil’ kid like when I touch down in the Hip Hop Mecca. I always bring my best for them. Although the playing field is a lot more leveled out now and N.Y artists and fans complain that N.Y is being overlooked in 2009, overall there’s still an East Coast bias in general, especially with a lot of the dinosaurs, publications, shows, etc. This has caused a rebellion that lead to cats formin’ they own media (Hot Block Magazine), websites (WetheWest.com) and outlets (Bring your A Game Tour) to counter that mentality. Its like lets rep our own hoods not to diss nowhere else but if the mainstream aint gonna do it like N.W.A, Cash Money, Thizz, or G.O.O.D you have to put on for your city.

It’s like affirmative action give a fair chance to everyone. Some of yall are right, it’s not comin’ directly from the artists and not always the fans either. You can’t like what u don’t know about. Some cats I met in N.Y thought the Bay was just E-40, Too Short and I Got 5 on It. Maybe the Occasional Humpy/Hammerreference cuz that’s all they hear in the mainstream but many rappers get shine on the internet from other places now. This is why it’s important that no matter where you’re from get out of your area and spread your movement. Don’t blame anyone else for not having exposure take matters into your own hands. One thing I like about the Bay is Different types of Artists from ALL OVER THE WORLD travel here every day and WE SHOW LOVE. It makes for a good scene where everyone can grow as artists and see different perspectives. Let’s allow for a bigger mind state then jus Biggie, Jay Z and Nas, grimy street raps with beat breaks, break dancing and grafitti.

 Even in N.Y that’s not the only thing crackin’ anymore. That will always be the foundation – but let rappers sing, do auto tune, dance, have fun, krump, snap, go dumb, Earl Flynn, say Tech 9 is the best, T.I or Wayne, San Quinn or Mac Dre, let a nigga make a song for the harmony and not jus for complicated lyrics, or just be different then what you like. It’s hard to look past your own opinion but don’t be “The Mad Rapper” or the Closed minded type of fan that can’t handle Wayne playing guitar or Andre 3000 doin’ falsetto in 2009. After I say all this shit I’m still gonna throw on my Illmatic tape listen to it a week straight on repeat and say its better than almost every album ever made and hold myself to that standard. ALL EYES ON ME is my shit too, and SouthernPlayalistic and Resurrection. Much respect to ALL regions, WE ALL have something to offer. It’s hip hop better yet its music…………

by DLabrie

DLabrie Debut coming soon

Original Article by Davey D – LINK -

http://hiphopandpolitics.wordpress.com/2009/08/11/before-there-was-50-there-was-tim-dog-remembering-the-east-west-coast-war/

 

How Did Senator Edward Kennedy’s Work Affect Young People?

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Almost every politician likes to utter the cliches of ‘helping’ or reaching out to the young people. Very few do more than roll up take a few pictures and bounce until the next photo op. Very few have taken the steps to craft legislation that would lead to young people being empowered. The conventional wisdom is that young people don’t vote so why bother doing anything for a segment of the population that doesn’t vote or put much pressure on to move in a particular political direction. Such was not the case with Ted Kennedy. He took that aspect of his career very seriously.

Our good friends at MTV lay out a few of Kennedy’s accomplishments with respect to creating and pushing bills designed to help young people. We hope folks take this to heart and commit themselves in following on those footsteps with the goal of taking the late Senator’s legacy to new heights.

-Davey D-

Late senator helped lower voting age to 18 and sponsored many college grant and loan programs.

By Gil Kaufman

http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1619575/20090826/index.jhtml

Young people lost a key ally in the Senate with his passing

Senator Edward Kennedy

was known for many things in his 46-year Senate career, including a tenacity that could put the fear into presidents both Democratic and Republican, a willingness to work with colleagues across the aisle to pass major legislation and a focus on improving the lives of children and young people. For decades, Kennedy, who passed away on Tuesday at 77 after a long battle with brain cancer, sponsored a number of bills that greatly enriched the lives of America’s youth.

One of Kennedy’s early triumphs was his participation in creating the National Teachers Corps, part of the Higher Education Act of 1965 that helped to provide scholarships for teachers who agreed to spend two years working in economically disadvantaged communities in the U.S., training them to work in low income, inner-city and rural schools. Three years later, he also championed the Bilingual Education Act of 1968, which required schools to offer bilingual education programs.

 Another of his most lasting legacies for young voters is his amendment of the Voting Rights Act in 1970, which laid the groundwork for a constitutional amendment lowering the voting age from 21 to 18.

Kennedy was one of the key supporters of equal rights for female high school and college athletes under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which protected women from discrimination in educational institutions and increased opportunities for women to participate in college sports. In 1975, Kennedy was the original co-sponsor of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (later the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), which required free and appropriate education for children with disabilities in every state. He would also later sponsor legislation authorizing grants for early learning for infants and toddlers with disabilities and a child-care act for members of the military that is still considered one of the best child-care systems in the country.

Among his initiatives in the 1990s that impacted the lives of young Americans: the repeal of the ban on women serving as combat aviators in the armed services, an expansion of the early education Head Start program, a $500 million appropriation to expand the Summer Jobs for Youth Program and the establishment of the Direct Lending Program, which allowed the Department of Education to provide low-cost loans to college students to cover educational expenses.

The senator offered his crucial sponsorship to another important bill in 1993, helping to secure the passage of the National Community Service Trust Act, which created AmeriCorps, a program that offers educational grants for more than 75,000 students a year who agree to do volunteer service after college.

In one of his most controversial legislative initiatives, Kennedy worked with President Bush in 2001 to pass the No Child Left Behind educational act, an often-maligned bill that set standards for schools in an effort to close achievement gaps.

Long an advocate for an increase in the minimum wage — which affects many young workers — Kennedy finally succeeded in 2007 in passing the first increase in the federal minimum wage in more than a decade, from $5.15 an hour to $7.25 an hour. That year, he also worked on the College Cost Reduction and Access Act, which authorized the biggest increase in student aid since the G.I. Bill in 1944 and included a loan-forgiveness program that allows more college graduates to go into public service.

In one of his final efforts on behalf of young Americans, Kennedy co-sponsored the 2008 Higher Education Opportunity Act, which expanded grants to low-income students, worked to reform the student loan marketplace, simplified the process of applying for federal financial aid and held colleges more accountable for their costs.

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Ted Kennedy’s Legacy in the Black Community

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The passing of Senator Edward Kennedy meant the end of an era especially for a lot of elders and vets of the Civil Rights struggle

When you talk to alot of elders in the community you hear them remark fondly about the ‘Age of Camelot’ in the early 60s. This was when a young John F Kennedy ascended to the White House against all odds and his two brothers Robert and Edward aka ‘Ted’ came along with him and took high profile seats in the government. Robert became Attorney General and Ted went onto start what would be a 47 year tenure in the Senate.

To hear the elders tell it, the Kennedy brothers brought with them a youthful energy that inspired hope and gave people a sense of empowerment. It’s that energy that has led many to compare President Obama to what they saw and felt with the Kennedys. For Black folks, the Kennedy brothers underscored that hope. For the first time those who were struggling to dismantle the nation’s harsh Jim Crow Laws, the Kennedy’s were an unexpected friend in the White House. For many, there was an understanding that while people were sitting in at lunch counters, boycotting buses, integrating schools and boldly challenging voting right laws, the wicked brutality they experienced oftentimes at the hands of southern police with the full support of local and state government, the Kennedy’s were the federal answer that would eventually triumph.

When John and later Robert Kennedy were killed many in the Black community took it hard. Those involved in the Civil Rights struggle felt they lost key allies and Ted was the one kernel of hope they had left. Him speaking out forcefully and championing numerous causes that spoke to the poor and down trodden during the reign of President Ronald Regan was a blessing that kept many connected to the Age of Camelot.  Him endorsing Barack Obama over Hillary Clinton, struck a major chord and went along ways amongst those old enough to remember.  

For those who are younger, Senator Kennedy was the large, robust grey haired Senator who was called a liberal and would make his points loud and passionately in the Senate chambers. He was a good guy if you rolled with his politics, but he didn’t evoke that same emotional connection I could see with my mom and others who watched the tributes playing on TV yesterday. The passing of Senator Edward Kennedy was truly the end of an era especially for an older generation. He will be missed.

 -Davey D-

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Ted Kennedy’s Legacy in the Black Community

The Loop 21, Commentary, Marvin King,

I was deeply saddened upon hearing that Ted Kennedy, the Lion of the Senate, had died due to a brain tumor. I was sad because the Kennedy clan lost another of its leaders, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of the Special Olympics, just two weeks ago. But even more so because I really believe that Kennedy represents the last of a breed, and I’m afraid my daughter will grow up in a world where people like Kennedy, who actually serve the people, are no more.

Kennedy was special because of his tireless work for the dispossessed, the immigrant, the disenfranchised, the poor, the everyman and every woman that makes America great.

As a man of privilege, Kennedy did not know poverty, but as he came from a family of immigrants, he recognized that if we could establish a level playing field, anyone in America can succeed. Given the proper tools and sufficient opportunity, Kennedy believed all Americans could reach loftier perches.

And for that purpose he worked. For more than 40 years, he worked in the Senate to provide us with that opportunity. As a staunch supporter of President Johnson’s Great Society, Kennedy made sure segregationist congressmen did not water down critical legislation such as the Voting Rights Act of 1965 and the Fair Housing Act of 1968. His first piece of legislation, the Hart-Celler Act of 1965, opened up American immigration policy to be more inclusive of immigrants from places other than Europe. His vision, one of pragmatic fairness for all Americans, will not and cannot be easily replaced.

Massachusetts has a relatively small black population, just 7 percent, yet he acted as if winning the black vote was the key to electoral success. Like his brother John F. Kennedy, who submitted the original Civil Rights Act, Ted realized that America could not fulfill its promise as long as it treated Blacks as second-class citizens. It was extra meaningful then when Kennedy endorsed Barack Obama early in the primary season, despite his longstanding friendship with the Clintons. Kennedy understood before most of us what the symbolic benefit of an Obama presidency would mean.

Kennedy was always a proud liberal and never compromised his beliefs, even though he occasionally sought political compromise. This was most evident in 2001 when he reached across the aisle to work with Republicans in crafting No Child Left Behind, because he believed we must do something to improve our schools. Yet, he always remained a true Democrat; he bitterly complained when those same Republicans failed to adequately fund NCLB.

Kennedy was at his best in 1980 when he challenged Jimmy Carter for the Democratic presidential nomination. In an America moving to the right, Kennedy called for a more liberal platform. Although his bid to unseat Carter failed, Kennedy shined a bright light on the issues he believed Congress and the president had neglected, most notably assistance for the poor in fighting nasty rates of inflation and unemployment.

His loss will be, and already is, greatly felt in the great health care debate. The Senate could use his calming influence during the greatest domestic policy debate in a generation. Hopefully, congressional Democrats can summon Kennedy’s courage and vision and pass meaningful reform that would make him proud.

source: http://news.newamericamedia.org/news/view_article.html?article_id=92706c93c2931ccdce8b69065da988f4
Marvin King is an assistant professor of political science at the University of Mississippiand writes the blog King Politics.

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The Kennedy brothers ushered in the Age of Camelot

 

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Fidel Castro says racist right-wingers fight Obama

  

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Rise Up Hip Hop Nation: “I Wish I Were Wrong”

Professor Tina Wright highlights two columns, one by a Reuter's and the other by Fidel's Castro which gives an indepth analysis of Race and Barack Obama

I have had a number of conversations with friends about Castro and Cuba as a model for social justice. I always give credit to the regime for its health care and education systems, but am not as enthusiastic about Cuba as a model as other progressives, leftists, or revolutionaries seem to be.

- I argue that the people’s power for self determination is undermined by a life long leader, but my sparring partners rationalize the need for a strong leader as the only way to fight US imperialism.

- I say that their isolation could have been used to demonstrate complete self sustainability (agriculture for example) and there would be no need to be a part of the “world market” but Cuba supporters think that is impossible for Cuba to be completely self sustaining…not sure why however…

Fidel Castro offers up a column that shows more empathy and not criticism for Barack Obama

- I argue that a true socialist country despite its history would not show the same racialized poverty (and racism in general) that permeates the rest of the world, but they say history takes time to correct.

I offer this to say, I am not a Castro supporter or hater. In theory, I believe his ideology is correct. In practice, it loses its credibility (as long as Cuba is a class and race based non-democratic society…which it is).

But I completely agree with Castro’s latest analysis of Obama’s challenges. With the racist white supremacist unable to accept Obama as president, he is being attacked fiercely. Instead of recognizing this and its repercussions on the future, many on the left are caught up in petty politics and also blaming Obama for not being all they want him to be. In getting caught in that trap, I see an opportunity for real democracy slipping quickly.

If action trumps criticism, progressives can have all they want with an Obama administration…but if we continue to let white nationalist fascists frame the mainstream dialogue, an opportunity is wasted for radical change. Read this analysis from Castro carefully…and if you want social justice for all people…take heed.

Written by Tina Wright

http://riseuphiphopnation.blogspot.com/2009/08/i-wish-i-were-wrong.html

below are links to the articles in question

Fidel Castro ‘s latest column is an interesting read. Here is the synopsis by Reuters:

Fidel Castro says racist right-wingers fight Obama
http://www.reuters.com/article/politicsNews/idUSB30869920090825I Wish I Were Wrong!

 Here is Fidel’s entire column (English translation):

I Wish i Was Wrong

http://www.juventudrebelde.co.cu/cuba/2009-08-25/i-wish-i-were-wrong/

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Juelz Arrested For Threatening Girlfriend; Released

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Obviously in light of Chris Brown sentencing and the incident at 50 cent’s mansion, we need some help. Women being threatened and beat is something that needs deeper attention from everyone, men and women, mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers. ..

Juelz Arrested For Threatening Girlfriend; Released

By Roman Wolfe

http://allhiphop.com/stories/news/archive/2009/08/25/21910943.aspx

Harlem rapper Juelz Santana was arrested this morning (August 25) after allegedly threatening to kill the mother of his child.

 According to reports, the woman called 911 this morning during a domestic dispute at their Teaneck, New Jersey home.

 Although the wife did not need medical attention, Juelz, born LaRon James, was officially arrested on domestic battery charges.

 ”Police were called to Juelz Santana’s home in Teaneck, New Jersey at 10:00 am after an argument between him and his son’s mother,” a rep for Juelz confirmed with AllHipHop.com. “LaRon James p/k/a Juelz Santana was then arrested and after review of the incident, police quickly released him. Santana is now resting comfortably at his home.”

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