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Home , 2 Pistols, Def Jam South, DJ Class, Don Vito (producer), Do What I Gotta Do, Frenchie (rapper)

OZONE MAGAZINE WE WORK NIGHTS, WE SOME VAMPIRES / GATHER ROUND THE BEAT ISSUE #78 LIKE A CAMPFIRE YOUR FAVORITE RAPPER’S FAVORITE MAGAZINE

NEW BOYZ ACE SEAN HOOD PAUL RICH KIDS JW JAVON WILLY BLACK NORTHPOLE UNLADYLIKE LOLA LUV

OZONE MAG // 1 YOURYOUR FAVORITEFAVORITE RAPPER’SRAPPER’S FAVORITEFAVORITE MAGAZINEMAGAZINE

UT ENTERTAINMENT’s KNOCKOKNOCKOUT ENTERTAINMENT’s SHORTYSHORTY MACKMACK && RAYRAY JJ NEW BOYZ MAINO YO GOTTI SEAN PAUL WILL Y RICH KIDS NORTHPOLE JAVON BLACK LOLA LUV UNLADYLIKE 20 // OZONE MAG 2 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 3 4 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 5 6 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 7 8 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 9 PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF // Julia Beverly MUSIC EDITOR // Randy Roper FEATURES EDITOR // Eric N. Perrin cover stories ASSOCIATE EDITOR // Maurice G. Garland GRAPHIC DESIGNER // David KA 42-43 ACE HOOD ADVERTISING SALES // Che Johnson, Gary Archer 54-58 RAY J & SHORTY MACK PROMOTIONS DIRECTOR // Malik Abdul W12-W13 WILLY NORTHPOLE SPECIAL EDITION EDITOR // Jen McKinnon WEST COAST EDITOR-AT-LARGE // D-Ray LEGAL CONSULTANT // Kyle P. King, P.A. SUBSCRIPTIONS MANAGER // Adero Dawson ADMINISTRATIVE // Kisha Smith INTERNS // Devon Buckner, Jee’Van Brown, Krystal Moody, Memory Martin, Ms Ja, Shanice Jarmon, Torrey Holmes CONTRIBUTORS // Anthony Roberts, Bogan, Camilo Smith, Charlamagne the God, Chuck T, Cierra Middlebrooks, David Rosario, Diwang Valdez, DJ BackSide, Edward Hall, E-Z Cutt, Gary Archer, Hannibal Matthews, Jacquie Holmes, J Lash, Jason Cordes, Jelani Harper, Joey Colombo, Johnny Louis, Kay Newell, Keadron Smith, Keita Jones, Keith Kennedy, K.G. Mosley, King Yella, Luis Santana, Luvva J, Luxury Mindz, Marcus DeWayne, Matt Sonzala, Maurice G. Garland, Mer- cedes (Strictly Streets), Natalia Gomez, Portia Jackson, Ray Tamarra, Rico Da Crook, Rohit Loomba, Shannon McCollum, Spiff, Stan Johnson, Swift, Tamara Palmer, Thaddaeus McAd- ams, Ty Watkins, Wally Sparks, Wendy Day

STREET REPS // 3rd Leg Greg, Adam Murphy, Alex Marin, Al-My-T, Ant Wright, Anthony Deavers, Baydilla, Benz, Big Brd, B-Lord, Big Ed, Big Teach (Big Mouth), Big Thangs, Big Will, Bigg P-Wee, Bigg V, Black, Bogan, Bo Money, Brandi Garcia, Brandon “Silkk” Frazier, Brian Eady, Buggah D. Govanah (On Point), Bull, C Rola, Cartel, Cedric Walker, Cece Collier, Chad Joseph, Charles Brown, Chill, Chuck T, Christian Flores, Clifton Sims, Dee1, Demolition Men, DJ Commando, Danielle Scott, DJ Dap, Delight, Derrick the Franchise, DJ Dimepiece, DJ D’Lyte, Dolla Bill, Dorian Welch, Dwayne Barnum, Dr. Doom, Dynasty, Ed the World Famous, DJ E-Feezy, DJ EFN, Episode, Eric “Crunkatlanta” Hayes, Erik Tee, F4 Entertainment, Fiya, G Dash, G-Mack, George Lopez, Gorilla Promo, Haziq Ali, Heze- leo, H-Vidal, Hotgirl Maximum, Hotshot, J Hype, Jacquie “Jax” Holmes, Jae Slimm, Jammin’ Jay, DJ Jam-X, Janiro Hawkins, Jarvon Lee, Jasmine Crowe, Jay Noii, Jeron Alexander, J Pragmatic, JLN Photography, Joe Anthony, John Costen, Johnny Dang, Judah, Judy Jones, Juice, DJ Juice, Kenneth Clark, Kewan Lewis, Klarc Shepard, Kool Laid, DJ KTone, Kurtis Graham, Kydd Joe, Lex, Lucky, Lump, Lutoyua Thompson, Luvva J, Marco Mall, Mario Grier, Marlei Mar, Maroy, DJ M.O.E., Music & More, Natalia Gomez, DJ Nik Bean, Nikki Kancey, Oscar Garcia, P Love, Pat Pat, Phattlipp, Pimp G, Quest, Quin- ton Hatfield, DJ Quote, DJ Rage, Rapid Ric, DJ Ricky Ruckus, Rob J Official, Rob Reyes, Robert Lopez, Rob-Lo, Robski, Scor- interviews pio, Seneca, Shauntae Hill, Sherita Saulsberry, Silva Reeves, Sir Thurl, DJ Skee, Sly Boogy, Southpaw, Spade Spot, Stax, 44-45 MAINO DJ Strong, Sweetback, Syd Robertson, Teddy T, TJ’s DJ’s, Tim Brown, Tonio, Tony Rudd, Tre Dubb, Tril Wil, Edwards, 46-47 SEAN PAUL Troy Kyles, Twin, Vicious, Victor Walker, DJ Vlad, Voodoo, DJ 50-51 LOLA MONROE Warrior, White Boi Pizal, Wild Billo, Will Hustle, William Major, 48 UNLADYLIKE Wu Chang, Young Harlem, Yung DVS, Zack Cimini

SUBSCRIPTIONS // To subscribe, send check for $20 to: Ozone Magazine, Inc. Attn: Subscriptions Dept 644 Antone St. Suite 6 monthly sections , GA 30318 Phone: 404-350-3887 Fax: 404-350-2497 15 10 things I’m hatin’ on 15 JB’S 2 CENTS Website: www.ozonemag.com 24 ARE YOU A G? 18 MATHEMATICS COVER CREDITS // Ace Hood photos (cover and this page) by 62 BOARD GAME 24 NAMES OF SHAME David Rosario; Ray J and Shorty Mack photo by Julia Beverly; 63 CAFFEINE SUBSTITUTES Enfamous Burnaz photo by Julia Beverly; JW photo by Ter- 59 OZONE SPORTS rence Tyson; Willy Northpole West Coast cover photo by Ty 60-61 CD REVIEWS 32-40 PATIENTLY WAITING Watkins; Tha Jacka photo by D-Ray. 22 CHAIN REACTION 19-39 PHOTO GALLERY 20 CHIN CHECK DISCLAIMER // OZONE Magazine is published 11 times per 16-17 RAPQUEST year by OZONE Magazine, Inc. OZONE does not take respon- 30 DJ BOOTH W6 SHORT STORIES sibility for unsolicited materials, misinformation, typographi- 28 DOLLAR MENU 26 SIDEKICK HACKIN’ cal errors, or misprints. The views contained herein do not W4 D-RAY’S I’M JUST SAYIN’ THO necessarily reflect those of the publisher or its advertisers. W16 THA JACKA Ads appearing in this magazine are not an endorsement 66 END ZONE W17 WEST CD REVIEWS or validation by OZONE Magazine for products or services 12 FEEDBACK W18 WEST END ZONE offered. All photos and illustrations are copyrighted by their 24 HOOD DEEDS respective artists. All other content is copyright 2009 OZONE W10 WEST PATIENTLY WAITING Magazine, all rights reserved. No portion of this magazine 53 INDUSTRY 101 W5 WEST PHOTO GALLERIES may be reproduced in any way without the written consent of the publisher. Printed in the USA.

10 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 11 Send your comments to [email protected] or hit us up at www.myspace.com/ozonemagazine

First off, I appreciate your magazine 100%. Me being a fan of music, I feel I’d like to start by giving OZONE Mag a big ups to the movement in the Hip you’re a pioneer in this rap shit. You definitely changed the whole magazine Hop community. Coming from a real nigga behind these walls, it’s not often game. I’m 19 and since I was a lil dude I’ve been buying magazines, every- that you see a magazine with the type of material OZONE comes with every thing from the Sauce to XXL to the [Rolling] Stones to Vibe, even random issue. Especially when the word “real” gets thrown around like it’s a fad. I shit like boat magazines, real talk. When I first got my hands on a copy of especially want to give a shout out to the mag for the Prison Diary section. OZONE Magazine a couple years ago I was like, DAMN. This is different from It shows that even though we might be behind these walls, we still have an all the other shit I’ve been reading. From the forums to the endless pages opportunity to voice our opinion. I’m coming home in a hot second and I’m of photos to reviews to the covers, I was amazed. You raised the bar to a still gonna be on OZONE when I touch the street. Shout out to all the real higher level. Fuck the other side. You know what the fans and readers want niggas that are behind these walls, the ones that kept it 100%! Stop snitch- and you give it to ‘em. ing, suck ass niggas! - Carlana Entertainment, via Myspace (Dayton, OH) - Andres Nunez, via inmatemessage.com (Atlanta, GA)

I love your write-ups in OZONE, but D.C. has a hidden jewel that you need I remember when you were trying to get your mag out on a major level, so to cover. , Raheem Devaughn, J Holiday, etc need to be recognized. it’s great that you’re doing major numbers now. I’m currently in a Federal Love the dirty South though! prison but I’m a music man myself, and my best homie for a lot of years, - Duane Russell, via email (Washington, DC) Dramills, is a artist on the rise. You’ve featured him in your mag before, back in ’05. I’d love to see my homie in your mag again. - Steven Currie, via inmatemessage.com (Greensboro, NC) What’s happenin’? I was wondering why y’all ain’t mention the passing of Dolla, the one with the record “Who Da Fuck Is Dat” featuring T-Pain. I’m a diehard OZONE fan and he deserves a shout out. Hell, he had a video. Oh, The latest sex issue of OZONE is the shit. I think that was my favorite issue and I was hoping that y’all could fuck with Arkansas from time to time. It’s so far. I like the interview with Mr. Marcus and the dominatrix chick. Damn, the home of Ne-Yo and others, and we’re not as country as [the TV show] the whole thing was awesome. I couldn’t put it down. It made me feel like I “Simple Life” with that dumb hoe Paris Hilton portrayed us as. Check out needed to read every article. Lottury (I had to self-promote) because he’s one of the best, period. Listen - Joker da Bailbondsman, via inmatemessage.com (Anchorage, AK) to him first, see that he’s worthy, and then print this. Big ups to all of the South and the rest of the Coasts that get down with it. Y’all ain’t sellin’ out. - Rome a.k.a. Lottury, via email (Arkansas) I’m a big fan of OZONE Mag and your award show. It reminds me of Murder Dog, but two times better. You really capture the underground Hip Hop Editor Responds: We did cover Dolla’s passing (R.I.P.) on ozonemag.com and scene like no one else out there. You are the new Source in . I have interviewed his business partner and friend Te-Money as a follow-up in an plans for an online and print magazine; an entrepreneurial and business upcoming issue. magazine geared towards the urban sector. As a kid I always watched and studied people like Puffy, Karl Kani, , Un Rivera, etc. I remember when I couldn’t wait to the get the Source Power Issue and In your article on notable weed heads [for the drug issue] I can’t believe tape all their articles to my wall. Today, even though the Source sucks, I still you muthafuckers slept on Meth and in “How High.” That was all pick up the Power Issue to see who the new movers and shakers are in the about weed. I’m not knocking Ice Cube in “Friday,” but in “How High,” they industry. Most kids I knew were just like me and wanted to start their own were smoking weed AND dead people, man! Y’all need to come out with businesses as well. I went on to college with the hopes of owning my own a scratch-and-sniff issue about weed. It’s from mother earth. Or even a business and when I graduated my dreams came true. I bought a Quizno’s scratch-and-sniff issue about [the strip club] Stroker’s, lol. Don’t sleep on franchise, which turned out to be a nightmare. Even though my title was Detroit either. “Franchise Owner,” that was far from the truth. I basically had no decision - Crunkatlantamusic, via myspace (Detroit, MI) making abilities and felt trapped. Fortunately, earlier this year I sold the franchise and freed myself from economic slavery! I wanted ownership and independence and I finally realized that this was something I needed to I was reading your editorial and loved it; I’m not sure which issue it was, create for myself. That’s when God gave me the idea of having something but you were speaking about Barack Obama. I loved that whole issue. I’m similar to Forbes Magazine, but flipping it for the Hip Hop community. I currently a federal inmate and am working on becoming a personal trainer. read an interview with you talking about the beginning of your mag and I actually used to rap myself, but I’ll be doing management and promotion I was inspired to push my dream into reality. You were talking about how when I’m released. I did a with DJ Smallz but got locked up before you would lay your magazine on the bar in the club and watch for people’s I could release it. reactions. Thanks for the inspiration. - Eagle, via inmatemessage.com (White Deer, PA) - Chicago Cruz of Currency/Next Magazine, via email

12 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 13 14 // OZONE MAG JB’s 2cents or the past few months, the million dollar question has been, “when are the OZONE Awards?” Last year, after the third annual event in Houston, TJ and I scoured the country for some possible F‘09 locations and I was starting to get excited about the prospects. But as the new year passed and ‘09 slowly progressed, I became more and more disenchanted with the idea of dedicating another 6 entire months of my life to this cause, partly because the economy is shit but mostly because peo- 10 THINGS I’M ple simply don’t know how to act. It’s mind-boggling that even with the amount HATIN’ ON of time, energy, resources, and effort we (OZONE & TJ’s DJ’s) put in to create an by aspiring porn star Maurice Stoney event on that scale, all it takes is a few short minutes of ignorance to overshadow all the work that was put in. And it isn’t limited to the OZONE Awards. At the 1. The job market Dirty Awards last year I witnessed firsthand the all-out brawl between Shawty I robbed a bank the other day and the Lo’s camp and TI’s camp, not to mention ’s camp and DJ Drama’s camp. It was a complete embarrassment to our entire community. This scenario has been

bitch was like, “Take all the money you D-RAY repeated at countless award shows in years past; Source, Vibe, etc. want!” I’m like, “Bitch, give me a job inter- Ray J & I @ my Vegas bday view. I need a salary, benefits and a desk.” party We need to grow the fuck up and get our shit together so we can be respected 2. Broke niggas who come VISIT on a bigger scale. The politics and economics of the music business are fascinat- from outta town ing to me; much more so than corporate America. But to corporate America, we I hate broke niggas who come visit with will always be a joke if we can’t have a simple gathering of all our key players in delusions of grandeur. Like, “Let’s hit Magic one place without someone getting stabbed, punched, or killed. To the average City, Velvet Room, Strokers, Lenox Mall, person, anyone associated with Hip Hop is a walking caricature. A punch line. and . But I’ve only got ten dollars.” But from the inside out, I know we are, for the most part, innovative, creative Stay the fuck home, please! entrepreneurs who put in as much work if not more than any Wall Street execu- tive. We should be focused on gaining respect worldwide for our business savvy D-RAY instead of focused on these petty beefs and altercations. And aside from the 3. (again) Me & Soulja Boy @ my I hate the recession, but love these food Denver bday party respect factor, our community’s reputation for violence hurts our money. Some prices. Even homeless niggas and bums in venues don’t want our business because of the negative aspects. We pay extra line at Church’s Chicken are like, “Can I get for security. We pay extra for insurance. Television networks are hesitant to get 2 titties, a side of pigeon soup, and some involved because of the inherent risks. All of this is preventable; it’s our own fault. pissy lemonade, hold the ice. Thanks.” My time is valuable. My birthday just passed and reflecting on the last 28 years, 4. The ghetto I have mixed emotions because I feel that I’ve done so much but at the same A lil nigga approached my car with a time, done so little. I look at life like a to-do list. “Produce award show” has already football helmet on his head, tennis racket been checked off that list, three times. There’s a long list of new things I want to explore to move my life forward in a positive direction and I question if the many, in his left hand, baseball bat in his right, SANTANA LUIS many stressful hours required to produce an award show will be worth the end and asked me to support his swim team. DJ Christion & I @ my What the fuck? Tampa bday party result. As Biggie said on “Sky’s The Limit,” “never make moves unless your heart’s in it.” I’m a firm believer in the idea that if you’re not going to put 100% effort into 5. Pregnant women who wanna something, you shouldn’t be doing it at all. use female condoms Number one, it’s too late. Number two, I The main reason I wanted to do the event in the first place was to create a forum don’t wanna knock the baby out and he for networking; a place where the key industry players and up and comers could comes out either wearing that shit like a meet each other face to face and develop lasting friendships. That’s how I got my doo rag, or using it as a parachute. start in the game, going to all the Tech.Nitions events and TJ’s DJ’s conferences and Mixshow Power Summits (even though I had to sneak in), and countless 6. Big ass roaches in Georgia concerts, etc, where I was able to meet friends, colleagues, and clients. So it was only right that I help continue that spirit on for the next generation. I moved in my new apartment and had Me & @ my three unknown roommates. Junior was fix- Anchorage, AK bday party ing a sandwich, Trey was watching TV, and With said: when are the next OZONE Awards? I honestly can’t answer that Tyrone was in the corner lifting weights. question right now, but as soon as I know, you’ll know. I want to make progress. One of ‘em looked at me and said, “Nigga, I want to grow. I want to create bigger and better opportunities for myself, my you got the top bunk. I got a bitch coming friends and employees, and all the artists and contributors and readers who have through tonight.” supported the OZONE movement from day one. It’s been GREAT so far this year to have a little time to breathe without feeling like the weight of the world is rest- 7. Sarah Palin ing on my shoulders. I’m just taking some time to make sure I’m making the right Hoe sit down. moves. I’m working on some things, trust me. Whatever comes next, my heart’s gotta be in it. Sky’s the limit - D-RAY 8. Light skinned nUccas T-Pain & I in Denver These light skinned muthafuckers that - Julia Beverly, [email protected] think is bringing them back in style are crazy. Wayne and Drake are like a mod- ern day Kid N Play. House Party 5, ‘nuff said. f/ Esther Dean “I Think I Love Her” “Yo Side Of The Bed” 9. Jamie Foxx RE’Splaylist Mario f/ Gucci Mane & “Break Up” Somebody whup his ass please; he’s dis- [email protected] Young Jeezy f/ JW & Boo Rossini “Biggest Movie Ever” playing bitchassness characteristics. Wale f/ J. Cole & Curren$y “Rather Be With You” Jay-Z “Death of Autotune” Juice f/ Bun B “Can’t Crush My Cool” 10. Anybody that calls at 3am AND Yo Gotti “5 Star Chick” Al Be Back f/ “Mira Mira” ASKs “What u doing, man?” J. Cole “Lights Off” RE “Hip Hop Legend” Muthafucker, I was asleep. What the fuck Twista “Wetter” was I supposed to be doing?

OZONE MAG // 15 BALTIMORE, MD: Bossman has been making a lot of noise lately. After brief stints on Virgin and Capitol Records, the homie is back in the spotlight with tons of new DALLAS/FT. WORTH, TX: music. Fresh off a deal with Myspace Records, he has two out:ATM Big Hood premiered his new “I Got It” video feat. Tum Tum and and Street Kings. He also has two singles killing nationwide radio right now. Lil Wil. Peaches from Onyx has the biggest ass in the city. B-Hamp Speaking of radio, Bmore’s own DJ Class is killing the airwaves as well with his dropped his B-Dash and ’s “” video banger “I’m the Ish.” The now has multiple remixes with different artists entered the 106th & Park countdown. Mesha D from Eminent Models ranging from to . is the official model feature for DFW videos. Definition DJ Tuss is in - Darkroom Productions ([email protected]) the mix at Peep N Tom’s. R&B artist Doo Dez is starting to make ladies sing “Sassy Girl” and GO DJ Phatz is spinning DFW artists strong on CHICAGO, IL: Port City’s 99.7. Free Stubb-a-lean, Pat Bush in Yazoo, and everybody Sly Polaroid, a.k.a. Sly P, has started a campaign to become President of the reading this in TDC. Streets of Chicago. DJ Solo has a new record called “Chicken Wing” which is - Edward “Pookie” Hall ([email protected]) accompanied by a dance. Another record making noise on the radio is “Lil Mama.” Artists to check for are Bullet, Boss Kane, Pugslee Atoms, Project Fresh, GAINESVILLE, FL: Hollywood Holt, Mic Terror and Big Bane. The original Bad Azz, Lil Boosie, put it down performing his latest - Jamal Hooks ([email protected]) single “Loose as a Goose.” He shared the stage with Jacksonville’s own Street Money Riders, and a slew of other big names such as Def Jam CINCINNATI, OH: Recording artists UnladyLike, DTP’s Willy Northpole, , GraphicsandLogos.net, located on Reading Road, is said to have the best and DJ Drama. Certified DJ’s own DJ Flow dropped his latest mixtape full-color printing in the nation. Heavy Risk Entertainment features artist O.P., entitled Certified Bangaz Vol. .1 The hometown hero DJ Terrah is still who is a swag savvy artist with catchy hooks that is destined to rise to the top putting up classics with local talent so hit him up for a feature. of the underground rap scene. Mac Niff, Spakz Tha Trak Man, and Moe Beats - Jett Jackson ([email protected]) have teamed up to make beats that are clean, crisp, and radio ready. Lyric is a young, fresh three-girl group with a hot single entitled “Dolla Bill.” Bump being HOLLYWOOD, CA: a dime. Jay Z and Eminem murdered the stage at the Wiltern Theatre for the - Judy Jones ([email protected]) new DJ Hero game. Seeing them on stage doing “Renegade” live set the bar for any show I’ll ever see again. The West Coast was in the COLUMBUS, GA: building as well - Warren G did “Regulator” during DJ AM and Travis Cedric the Entertainer came down and did a show. Afterwards he hung out Barker’s set, and Nipsey Hussle, Crooked I, and Tyrese rolled through and went to a few spots. SOA has thrown a host of successful parties, and to show support. I also had the chance to peep some new music from Mario’s seems to be the new spot of choice. The Hookah bar is also becoming Maxwell at his exclusive listening session in Beverly Hills. Make sure popular, but people still look at you funny when you order a hookah, go fig- you get some R&B in your life. Bishop Lamont had his second annual ure. By the time this is posted, Foxie 105 will have hosted its Summer Concert “Bishop Lamont & Friends” show at House of Blues on Sunset. “Family Day in the Park” so details are on the way. - Devi Dev ([email protected]) - David Britt ([email protected])

16 // OZONE MAG PITTSBURGH, PA: KANSAS CITY, MO/KS: Hot 103 JAMZ Summer Jam II went down at Sandstone Park. The lineup Pittsburgh lost its only Urban Radio Station, featured Soulja Boy, , , , Yung LA, Dor- WAMO, after it was sold to St. Joseph’s Mission. rough, the Kansas City King Tech N9ne, Black Walt and Block Life Ent. Got After more than 30 years of serving the African spins? Underground Heat is still breaking music in KC. You can now see American community with music and events, it the show live on the web at 11 pm on Friday and Saturday. Tech N9ne is now expected to become a religious station. released his new collabo album Sickology 101 and Van Brunt Ent. is drop- We may be down some, but don’t count us out ping Red Ragz and Blue Flagz this summer. yet. Everyone’s in the streets with new music and - Kenny Diamondz ([email protected]) projects. Wale, Trey Songz, Lil Wil, DJ Drama (pic- tured at left), DJ Holiday, and have all : stopped through to kick it, while Pyrex Press and LOUISVILLE, KY J Skillz da Bandman has a hit single called “Simon Sayz” and Kenzo’s Moola Gang just got back from overseas. Paper single “Do da Shiz” is also getting support in the city. Both artists shot Boys Entertainment is gearing up for another run videos recently. Young Miz is killing the scene with his Certified mixtape. and F-Block Records is taking major meetings. KD is back with a track called “My M.O.B. (My Michelle Obama).” Young - Lola Sims ([email protected]) Bell dropped his mixtape Let’s Talk Bricks. Look out for Harolin back at B96.5. HOUSTON, TX: - Divine Da Liaison ([email protected]) Paul Wall’s album release party at Bambou and listening party at the Galleria TV Johnny location were both successful. The city was also filled with MEMPHIS, TN: Lil Wyte is pushing his new single “Take Yo Moni” off his newest mixtape guest performances by Drake, Rick Ross, Soulja Cocaine & Kush Reloaded featuring Partee. Upcoming artist Big Face Mike Boy, and Maino, but one of the most interesting has hit the ground running with his new mixtape Gangsta as I Wanna Be weekends of last month was Vince Young’s Birth- and is fitting into the Memphis rap scene quite well. The underground day/ Celebrity Basketball game featuring Young Memphis dance style called “juking” made its debut on “So You Think Jeezy, and Jermaine Dupri. You Can Dance” by Memphis police officer Marico Flake. After locking - Ghost Da Hustla (Ghostdahustla.blogspot.com) himself in the studio for weeks at a time, Yo Gotti has produced a slew of mixtapes including Cocaine Cowboy, 5 Star Chef, and his latest Cocaine HUNTSVILLE, AL: Muzik 2. The June Black Arts Festival was canceled due to - Deanna Brown ([email protected]) the economy. There goes the biggest thing we had to look forward to this year. G-Side has been traveling the East Coast. 6 Tre G is gearing up NASHVILLE, TN: Cashville’s goin’ off courtesy of Cheezy, who’s new single “I Go Off” is for the release of Boss Muzik. Can’t Stop Records carrying the heat of the summer with it. The City Paper is in stores and is has been putting in work. Short Change leaked guaranteed to show you why Paper is the 09 SEA Slept on Artist of the a banger with “Dirty Like That.” Untamed threw a Year! The Cancer/Leo Bash II hosted by Serious featured performances by crazy party at the Homeport. DJ Drama, Gorilla Ms. Honeysiccle, Ashthon Jones, and Mario, a.k.a. Rio Moore. AG Enter- Zoe,, Project Pat, and all hit tainment, WUBT, Diavontti, and Flymajor.com brought something new the city. Lookout for VIP TV from Pleasure Houze. to the table for the grown and sexy in Nashville courtesy of the All White The PRGz signed to E1 (Koch). Beach Affair. The event featured 5 DJs, celebs, and class. - Codie G ([email protected]) - Janiro ([email protected]) TAMPA, FL: RICHMOND, TRI-CITIES, VA: Laws proves why he’s Your Future Favorite Rapper Streetz Deep shot a video for his new single “That Go Round” produced on his latest mixtape release (pictured at left), a by VA’s next hot producer Murda One. The song features Bola of Grand collabo with DJ Smallz and Grammy–Award Win- Hustle’s group Xtaci. Our City Boyz are performing at the South Carolina ning producers J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League. DJ Christion Music Awards in July. Charles Owens, a.k.a. Vito, is in the studio working released his own mixtape entitled Overtime. 2 with VA producers The Incredibles who are best known for their work on Pistols and Young Joe filmed the video for their Jeezy’s “Vacation” and Ace Hood’s “Ride” featuring Trey Songz. Canayda smash hit “Lights Down Low.” The rest of the mu- releases hot new digital music on Myspace.com/CanaydaMusic. sic scene prepared for the 6th Annual Tampa Music - Atiyyah Wali ([email protected]) Conference at Ritz Ybor. This year’s panel of speakers included Sean Kingston, DJ Noodles, Pleasure P, 3rd Leg ST. LOUIS, MO: Greg , Jacki-O, Orlando, and DJ Christion, as well as others. Loose Cannon Ent. beat Derrty Ent. in a charity basketball game that The Hip Hop Soda Shop closed its doors. raised money for Nelly’s 4 Sho 4 Kids www.4sho4kids.org. Derrty DJs - Slick Worthington (Myspace.com/SlickWorthington) held the Midwest Summit that brought DJs from all over the country. Several artists made an impact but it was Louie V. with his “Do Ya Own JACKSONVILLE, FL: Dance” that had people talking. The Midwest Summit ended with the Young Cash had a big birthday week with all the promoters in the city. St. Lunatics all on the same stage for first time since 1999. Jibbs has a HighLife Music is still pumping strong in the Westside with their new club new single rotating called “Ay DJ” featuring Lloyd. DJ CD’s mixtape with nights. Bigga Rankin has been trying to bring the local artists together with has been a top seller at Vintage Vinyl for three months now. little success, being that the independent grinders in Duval County are Check out the newest STL mixtapes at www.MidwestMixtapes.com. remaining totally independent, and in the process nobody is really working - Jesse James ([email protected]) together. Derek Washington has been trying to keep the record pool going, and Big L is in the same boat with his newspaper. These guys have good WASHINGTON, DC: intentions, so hopefully the city can get behind them and open the flood DJ Heat from WPGC, a.k.a. The Mixtape Madame, recently released 2 gates for Jacksonville’s music scene. brand-new projects: This is the Remix Vol. IV and Fiyah: The T-Pain Edition. - Lil Rudy ([email protected]) The DMV Music Movement continues to gather momentum and there have been a slew of red-hot singles hitting the streets: “Spotlight” by 32 INDIANAPOLIS, IN: and Y’anna Crawley (BET’s Sunday Best winner); “Natural” and “Smoke I-Hustle Ent. brought Boosie and Webbie for the thickest event of the year. Break” blazed by Whitefolkz; “Blog Food” by Pro’ Verb; and “I Remember DJ Don Don celebrated his birthday at Club Tropicana as Young Dro and Hip-Hop” by Go-Go Michelle. Go-Go Michelle is also ready to drop her Yung LA rocked the set. OJ da Juiceman performed in front of a sold out new album Hegemony. Judah, who is one of DC’s top producers, also crowd. and The Dream brought out the city’s finest at the Vogue has one of the best blogs in the city: www.forthedmvonly.blogspot. nightclub. Trill Tight DJs and Greatest DJs are keeping the city pumped. com. DJ Black and his Dragged Up DJ crew are releasing the official Naptown - Sid “DCSuperSid” Thomas ([email protected]) anthem produced by . Mz Fe, Cold Hearted, and Lady Free are repping for the ladies. - Compiled by Ms Rivercity, [email protected] - DJ Black ([email protected])

OZONE MAG // 17 Day (www.RAP-COALITION.COM) SELLING MUSIC IN A CHANGING ECONOMY | By Wendy

The most dangerous person in the music industry is the one who doesn’t understand stores to see what they feel are the best (let them choose your singles). how it actually works. They chase false goals and are doomed to follow wrong paths! Then focus on the single to build awareness. Depending on the budget you --Wendy Day Twitterism have available (and like EVERY business, this one also takes some money to make money), you draw a circle around your city. For example, you draw a e’ve all heard the adages about how during a recession, music sales circle that’s a 3 hour driving radius around your city, or with a bigger budget, increase. But we’ve never been through a depression before (they you draw a circle that’s a 5 or 6 hour driving radius around your city. That circle won’t start calling it that until we come out of it, for fear people will becomes your target market area. grip onto their spendable dollars even tighter). And prior to the shitty Weconomy, music sales were taking a nose dive anyway…some say because You cover every inch of that market promoting at clubs, barber shops, malls, of bad music choices, and some say due to downloading and free P2P music high schools, flea markets, clubs, hair salons, colleges, car washes, strip clubs, swapping. Others say it’s due to too many entertainment choices vying for our community centers—anyplace where your market hangs out. If your music is attention; we all only get 24 hours each day. more street (like Gucci Mane, Maino, or Young Jeezy) you focus more on the ‘hoods and streets. If your music is more lyrical (like Kanye or Drake) then the Chris Anderson wrote a great book called “The Long Tail,” and what I took away focus is college and high school campuses. I believe every artist should hit ev- from it was that each artist now needs to reach his or her own niche directly-- erywhere, even if your stronger focus is more street or more college oriented. If through building their own movement and interacting with fans, and potential your music is geared towards the youth (like Soulja Boy), make sure your focus is fans, directly. I see it reinforced everyday on . Those who are skilled at high schools, middle schools, community centers, arcades, teen clubs, and skat- interacting and inviting their fans into their circle will fare the best. ing rinks. Make sure your music is clean if you’re promoting to younger people. (@Ludajuice) and Tyrese (@Tyrese4Real) are exceptionally skilled at this. Gucci Mane and Yo Gotti are exceptional at working the streets and clubs. Drake and The best tools to utilize are posters, flyers, t-shirts, wrapped vehicles, snippet are great on the mixtape circuit. But the real challenge is to be great at CDs, mixed CDs, postcards, so people can see your image and hear your music. it all! E-blasts of your single, YouTube videos and footage help tell the story of who you are and what your music is about. Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter let fans I’m fortunate in that the indie labels that I consult are doing very well. They still see personal aspects of you and your personality. Filming behind the scenes are able to sell CDs and downloads by spending promotional dollars in places footage also involves your fans in your movement. where it matters, with people who are legitimate, and grind like their lives depend on it—which they do. But not everyone has this same experience. The Gone is the day where fans want to see artists flaunt that they have more mate- key is to make great music, market and promote it well to people who would rial goods than the fan will ever possess. Gone is the day of having one or two buy it, and work harder than every other artist out here. good singles and a bunch of filler to make a $20 CD sale. Today, fans pick and choose the songs they like and free music is all the rage. I read a post on Bob Word of mouth and people hearing songs that they like are what sell music. Lefsetz’ blog by the artist Moby, who said that his #1 sold download on iTunes Therefore, promotional efforts should be based around letting people hear was a song that he’d been giving away for free for two months. Free does help your music, and sparking people to talk about you. Everything you do needs to sales as we all suspected. revolve around working your single and getting your word of mouth buzzing. Spreading your music, while showing your image is important. Some artists use In this industry, there are so many bogus people! It’s really important to check mix CDs, snippet CDs, YouTube videos and footage, and upload stuff to places the credentials and track record of anyone you give your hard earned money like WorldStarrHipHop. Most artists tour and do shows whenever and where to. 99% of the people in the music industry are full of shit just trying to make a ever possible. The more someone sees you, the more they recognize you! come up off of an uninformed person with money.

Artists with bigger budgets use radio spins, promotional tours within a 3 to 5 Once you market and promote within that 3 to 5 hour radius, which is your state area, and songs featuring other artists in addition to the other promo- market area, you build the buzz until there is a strong enough demand for tional methods. Keeping in touch with fans via phone calls, email, newsletter your album (usually after fans have heard a couple of songs and a mix CD or e-blasts, twitter, websites, Facebook, MySpace, YouTube, etc. With the over two). You’ll be able to feel the buzz because you will most likely be getting paid saturation of music and rappers, it takes more work and more time to sell less to perform at shows now. Your demand will be increasing….more incoming music. It almost seems like giving away music for free and selling merchandise, phone calls, more web hits, more Twitter followers, more MySpace friends, shows, and endorsements makes more sense. It’s about and an more followers at shows, more invites to events, etc. Also, more local artists interesting story to get people talking about you. A fucked up image can do and producers will be hounding you to work with them. At this point you can more damage than bad music, however. upload your music to an aggregator like TuneCore.com for digital sales and an independent distributor (someone LEGITIMATE who can get CDs into stores While most artists are still begging the major labels for record deals, the for you—REALLY, REALLY, REALLY check references here! More distributors are smarter artists have realized that working their own project to build a buzz and bullshit than legit). Once your music is for sale in the marketplace you have to sell their own music is the ticket to success. The best start is to make good mu- work even harder to get people to support you and buy it. It’s truly a popularity sic that has a competitive sound. That doesn’t mean that it needs to sound like contest, and fans vote with their dollars whether they like you or not! all the other crap out there, but it can’t be so completely different that no one wants to hear it. The quality needs to be relatively tight, at least professional In today’s declining and challenging marketplace, it’s no longer necessary to enough to compete in the marketplace. Can your single be played on the radio be backed by a major label or a sub-label (usually owned by another artist or between Young Jeezy and Kanye and still sound good? producer). Provided you have the budget, or the ability to find an investor, the playing field is more level today than it ever has been in the history of the music When you’ve got good music, it’s best to get feedback from DJs and retail business. Just make sure you know what you are doing and have found good guides along the way to help you. If not, this can be a very expensive hole into which you could waste a lot of money! //

18 // OZONE MAG (above L-R): Gorilla Zoe & a colorful fan @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash in Orlando, FL; OJ da Juiceman & DJ Prostyle @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash in Orlando, FL (Photos: Malik Abdul); Young Jeezy & Ocho Cinco @ Gansevoort Pool Party in Miami, FL (Photo: Thaddaeus McAdams)

01 // Dru of The Runners, J Lash, DJ Khaled, & DJ Dempi @ Mansion for Rick Ross’s album release party (Miami, FL) 02 // Kingpin & Grand Prix @ Def Jam Showcase during the CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 03 // Geter K & Gucci Poochie @ Mansion for Rick Ross’s “” release party (Miami, FL) 04 // Playaz Circle @ the W Hotel for the CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 05 // Boomtown, Mike Jones, & guest on the set of “Swagg Thru Da Roof” (Houston, TX) 06 // DJ Princess Cut & Cory Mo @ The Loft (Atlanta, GA) 07 // TMR Models, Mack 10, & K-Boy on the set of “Sun Come Up” (Miami, FL) 08 // TayDizm, DJ Khaled, Ace Hood, T-Pain, & Young Cash on the set of “Overtime” (Miami, FL) 09 // Damm D & Spark Dawg @ Crystal’s (Arlington, TX) 10 // Roc Harder DJs @ the Hot Block Awards (Atlanta, GA) 11 // Arrogant Music @ Velvet Room (Atlanta, GA) 12 // Verse & Rob Green @ Velvet Room (Atlanta, GA) 13 // Big V & Scales of the Nappy Roots & DJ Scorpio (Atlanta, GA) 14 // Hip Hop Friends & Mercedes Streets @ Justin’s for The CORE DJs Bad Boy event (Atlanta, GA) 15 // DJ K-Roc and Damm D @ Crystal’s (Arlington, TX) 16 // Nard & B & Yung LA on the set of Yung LA’s “Futuristic Love” (Atlanta, GA) 17 // Cole & Grand Prix @ Plush (Jacksonville, FL) 18 // Big Hood Boss, Lil Wil, & Doughski G on the set of Big Hood Boss’s video shoot (Dallas, TX) 19 // , Vawn, & Drumma Boy @ Red Carpet Lanes for their Dream Land event (Atlanta, GA)

Photo Credits: Devon Buckner (10,19); Edward Hall (09,15,18); J Lash (01,07,08); Julia Beverly (03,04); Lamont DeSal (05); Ms Rivercity (02,06,11,12,13,16,17); Terrence Tyson (14)

OZONE MAG // 19 CHIN CHECK By Charlamagne Tha God

People would start buying Hip Hop catalogues again, more older artists could tour, and most importantly, when these older artists still want to D.O.A.A.: record and put out , the people who grew up listening to them probably would still go out DIE OLD and purchase them. It’s not that older rappers shouldn’t record any- ASS more. They just need to rap about what they’re going through now in life and stop trying to relive their youth. I don’t want to see ice ARTISTS grilling the camera and about shooting people anymore. I don’t want to see him laid up (YOUR CAREERS, THAT IS) in the project hallways; he looks ridiculous at 40 years old. I like what artists like Ghostface, , and Andre 3000 do. They rap about life as it is for Older rap artist’s careers are already dead. They’re them now; they don’t make records catering to just carrying them along, like Larry and Richard the youth. They’re not stressing whether or not did Bernie in Weekend At Bernie’s. It doesn’t have they get radio play, or if the young kids will em- to be like this, though. If older artists catered brace them at Summer Jam. They’re just painting to the people who actually grew up listening their pictures from a grown man’s perspective. to their music and started making music that someone like 2Pac declared Death to Big Money people at their age could actually relate to, their Ghostface spoke on his new album recently say- Talk while Jay was on the come-up? How would rap careers could still prosper. ing, “You gotta tell the fans that you’re not gettin’ that have affected him? Why is Jay getting points no younger here. We’re gettin’ older and every- for making a song about what the internet has Take LL Cool J, for example. James Todd Smith is body doesn’t sell crack no more, man. I don’t sell been saying for the longest? I personally don’t 41 years old. He’s married with four kids. On his crack, you. I ain’t movin’ no bricks or none of that believe Jay feels strongly about the “D.O.A.” thing. last single “Baby” featuring Dream, he talks about other shit. I ain’t shoot nobody in like since the He just needs a quick gimmick to jumpstart hype banging out a chick at a truck stop and banging early 90s, man. How long you gonna be 40 years for . out a chick in the back of a pickup truck. He even old and actin’ like you still sellin’ crack and you on says in the record that the girl he’s with doesn’t the block and you doin’ this and you doin’ that Do I find Autotune annoying? Yes. Is it neces- care if he’s married or single. when times is more serious, man. It’s time to talk sary on every record? No. Does it sound good about grown-man situations.” on some records? Yes. Did Jay-Z have to declare But the reality of the situation is this: LL, you are death to it? No. Will it have an affect on people married! Act like it! That record could’ve been This leads me to the one artist who just won’t using Autotune, or fans embracing Autotune so much harder if you as a married 41-year-old grow up: Jay-Z. He tried on Kingdom Come, but records? Not at all. Jay-Z doesn’t have the same man made a record about your wife. Imagine when that album wasn’t critically acclaimed, he influence he had when he declared “I don’t wear husbands all over the country coming in the resorted back to the same drug-dealing street jerseys I’m 30+ / Go get a button-up.” If he does, house singing to their wives, “You’re my baby, my talk he’s been doing his whole career on Ameri- how come nobody is dressing like him now? baby, my baby, my baby.” That’s some G shit; G for can Gangsta. He said he was influenced to record Where’s your nappy Afro and glasses like Roger Grown. That’s the problem with old artists in Hip the album by watching the movie American from the old TV show “What’s Happening”? Hop. They don’t want to grow up. Gangsta; he said it took him back to that era of his life when he was running the streets. That’s Jay-Z, if you want the culture of Hip Hop to move Radio is partly to blame for this also. Your favorite bullshit, Hov. You just wanted to rap about trap- forward, you need to step back. We need people Hip Hop and R&B station caters to the 18-34 de- ping again because you want to be relevant to like you in the board room. You did all you could mographic. So when these old artists are making the young crowd. His latest attempt at reliving do as a player. If you’re the Michael Jordan of rap records, they’re targeting that audience. People his youth is “D.O.A. (Death Of Autotune).” I find it like you say you are, sit down and own your tea. my age – 29 – and up are still in that demo, but humorous that of all the things he could declare Groom the next generation of artists. truthfully, outside of my career in radio, I don’t Death on in the rap game, he chose Autotune. listen to the radio too much because the playlists That’s pretty weak, Jay. All of you who are saying Hip Hop is dead or are way too redundant. I like Soulja Boy’s “Turn the rap game is whack must be listening to the My Swag On,” but one station is playing it a hun- How about Death to celebrating the drug cul- radio way too much. Hip Hop is in the best space dred times a week. That’s insane. ture? If you really lived it, fine, tell your story. But it’s been in a long time, but you won’t realize if you didn’t, stop using the trap as a gimmick. that if you keep trying to bring that old feeling Some radio stations are called Urban AC stations, is not music. Everybody can’t back. Life is about forward motion; it’s not about which cater to the 25-54 demographic. They play make a trap record just because that’s what’s “in.” bringing back what was. It’s about embracing a lot of older music, but when you listen to these Why didn’t Jay-Z declare Death to gangbanging what it is and what it’s going to be. What it is: T.I., stations, you have to ask where the Hip Hop is. on records? This is Hip Hop and all these rappers Young Jeezy, , Rick Ross, and Plies. What Most of these Urban AC stations ignore the fact become gang members after they get deals. it’s going to be: Glasses Malone, Nipsey Hussle, that Hip Hop has been the most dominant form What part of the game is that? Why didn’t Jay-Z and Strong Arm Steady from the West Coast; of urban music for the past 20 years. They’ll play declare Death to bling? It’s a recession, stop Maino and Red Café from New York; Drake from old school R&B but won’t play old school Hip spending money on Big Ass Chains (T-Pain, this Canada; Killer Mike from Atlanta; and the whole Hop. Why not? The people that are in the 25-54 means you) and invest in something that doesn’t Stupid Dope Moves regime from South Carolina demo grew up on Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, LL depreciate with value. Why didn’t Jay-Z declare which includes Trapstar, A Rizzla, and Marly Marl. Cool J, Outkast, and Scarface. Death to older artists not acting their age? Why Respect the past, but embrace the future. That’s didn’t he co-sign what Ghostface said? Because my motto, and for all older artists who don’t Since these Urban AC stations ignore these older he would’ve ethered himself. feel that way, D.O.A.A.: Die Old Ass Artist (your records and don’t include them in their playlists, careers, that is). a lot of artists have nowhere to go. Imagine if Autotune never heard anybody. It’s amazing there was a Hip Hop Urban AC station that played that the same guy who said “what you eat don’t Streetfully Yours, Sincerely Gangsta, Gutter the best Hip Hop from the 80s and 90s. That make me shit” is now declaring Death to the Always, would bring revenue to so many older artists. way others are eating. What if back in the day Charlamagne Tha God

20 // OZONE MAG (above L-R): Young Jeezy & Maino @ Gansevoort Pool Party in Miami, FL (Photo: Thaddaeus McAdams); Mike Jones & @ The Loft in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Ms Rivercity); Mack 10 pourin’ out some liquor for the homies on the set of Glasses Malone’s “Sun Come Up” video shoot in Miami, FL (Photo: J Lash)

01 // Kwame Kilpatrick & Skip Cheatham @ Stankofa for the Stop the Violence event (Dallas, TX) 02 // DJ Impact, Bigg DM, Sean Garrett, Tony Neal, & @ the W Hotel for the CORE DJs Retreat’s Def Jam Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 03 // Spectacular of Pretty Ricky & Freestyle Steve @ Sobe Live (Miami, FL) 04 // Rolemodelz & Slim Thug @ 97.9 The Beat car show (Dallas, TX) 05 // Garfield & Disco Jr @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash (Orlando, FL) 06 // DJ Nasty, DJ Khaled, & DJ Trauma @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 07 // Cool & Dre & Rage on the set of ’ “Lights Down Low” video shoot (Tampa, FL) 08 // Big Kuntry, Yung LA, & Lil Duval on the set of Yung LA’s “Futuristic Love” (Atlanta, GA) 09 // Magazeen, Gorilla Zoe, & Masspike Miles @ Mansion for Rick Ross’s album release party (Miami, FL) 10 // DJ Storm & Erin Barna @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle event (Atlanta, GA) 11 // Jeff Dixon, Kim Ellis, Ace McGinty, Wendy Day, & Lola Sims @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 12 // Princess of Trill & Doughski G (Austin, TX) 13 // Odd & Even & Big Rich @ the W Hotel for the CORE DJs Retreat’s Def Jam Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 14 // Total Kaos, bodypainted models, & TJ Chapman @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL) 15 // Hurricane Chris & ladies on the set of Hurricane Chris’s “Halle Berry” video shoot (Dallas, TX) 16 // B Rich & Rob Green on the set of Yung LA’s “Futuristic Love” (Atlanta, GA) 17 // Willie C & Bay Bay @ BTB Records party (Texarkana, TX) 18 // The School Boyz @ Justin’s for The CORE DJs Bad Boy event (Atlanta, GA) 19 // Dru of The Runners & Bali @ Mansion for Rick Ross’s album release party (Miami, FL)

Photo Credits: Edward Hall (01,12,15,17); J Lash (19); Julia Beverly (02,03,06,07,13); Malik Abdul (05,14); Ms Rivercity (08,16); Terrence Tyson (10,11,18); Thaddaeus McAdams (09); Tre Dubb (04)

OZONE MAG // 21 … a

call

I k c tthe fu a h w

s t’ a ’, th ’, n xi la rted re a t s d an

E LAC K C E She Liked my N YO GOTTI YO! MTV RAPS TRIBUTE

O! MTV Raps was probably one of the first shows Emmett [the jeweler] in Houston did the piece for me. Emmett’s that I had seen with rap videos on it back in the day. good. He does a lot of people’s shit. I paid about $25,000 just for I saw somebody who had a shirt with the [YO! MTV the piece and the chain was another $2,000. I bought a watch and Raps] logo on it but it had my name, Yo Gotti. I saw a ring and all that with it, so he gave me one price for everything. A theY shirt about a year ago so when I decided to get a new chain, white watch and a white ring. that’s the design I decided to use. I always wanted to get a chain that’s unique. You can tell if a chain is real or not. For one, if you see three or four people with [the same design] it’s probably not [real]; that’s what I I don’t remember the exact videos on YO! MTV Raps that were my call a “stock chain” because [the jeweler] has already made them up. favorite, but all the [old school] rappers were on there. It wasn’t one With certain people’s chains, you can see the work that goes into video in particular; I was into the whole Hip Hop thing back then. them. That’s not saying that it still couldn’t be fake, but why would They’d have Kool Mo Dee and them on the show. I never knew what they put that much work into a fake piece? It takes a lot of work to area they were from back then. When I was lookin’ at it, it wasn’t do the detailing on [some chains]. // even broken down to [West or East] Coast or [down] South. They were all just artists to me. Words by Julia Beverly Photo by Terrence Tyson

22 // OZONE MAG (above L-R): Lil Wayne & Pee Wee @ Phillips Arena for Birthday Bash in Atlanta, GA; Trey Songz, Sean Garrett, & Mario @ Phillips Arena for Birthday Bash in Atlanta, GA; DJ Khaled & @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase in Atlanta, GA (Photos: Julia Beverly)

01 // JB, Nick the Next Wun, & Peanut @ Mambo’s for Stephanie of 97.9’s birthday bash (Dallas, TX) 02 // Physha P & Ed the World Famous @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 03 // DJ Merk, D’Lyte, Dorrough, & Ebony, @ the W for CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 04 // Ms Go Ham & G Fresh @ Club Mariachi (Atlanta, GA) 05 // For- tune, Tracy T, , & Diamond @ the W for CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 06 // DJ Christion, Cool, & 2 Pistols on the set of 2 Pistols’ “Lights Down Low” video shoot (Tampa, FL) 07 // Vernon Forrest & Gorilla Zoe @ Mansion for Rick Ross’s “Deeper Than Rap” release party (Miami, FL) 08 // Caviar, T-Roy, & Cali @ Bourbon St Station (Jacksonville, FL) 09 // Rick Ross & Gucci Poochie on the set of & Lil Wayne’s “” video shoot (Miami, FL) 10 // Justice League, OJ da Juiceman, & Orlando McGhee @ Hot Beats (Atlanta, GA) 11 // Big Chief, Doughski G, Chase Pat, & T-Cash @ Mambo’s for Stephanie of 97.9’s birthday bash (Dallas, TX) 12 // Mickey Factz & Jessie Maguire @ the W Hotel for the CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 13 // Adept & guest @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash (Orlando, FL) 14 // Dolla & Sway @ Mambo’s (Dallas, TX) 15 // DJ Scream & Cosa Nostra on the set of DJ Scream’s “On My Grind” video shoot (Atlanta, GA) 16 // Guest, Big Kuntry, & Bola on the set of Yung LA’s “Futuristic Love” (Atlanta, GA) 17 // FLY @ the W Hotel for the CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 18 // TJ Chapman & Wayne Williams @ Justin’s for The CORE DJs Bad Boy event (Atlanta, GA) 19 // Lil Wil & JuJu of Fam Life @ Richmind Records party (Dallas, TX)

Photo Credits: Edward Hall (01,11,14,19); J Lash (09); Julia Beverly (06,07,12,17,18); Malik Abdul (13); Ms Rivercity (03,04,05,10,15,16); Terrence Tyson (02,08)

OZONE MAG // 23 Are You a G? TRIBUTE 7 Questions to FIND OUT if THE KING OF POP abcdefG MICHAEL JACKSON WAs the 7th letter of the alphabet. are even more artists who MJ was prob- wanna be like Mike. But ably referring to , Justin Timber- Diddy when he lake, and Ne-Yo could ever proclaimed to have ghost- top the King at his peak. written for “very famous rappers,” which doesn’t C. Does the real Billie Jean count. But he gets credit for know about the song, and having collaborated with if she did, what was her Biggie Smalls, R Kelly, and reaction? Jay-Z over the years. There is a girl named Billie Jean, but it’s not about F. If you were invisible for that Billie Jean. Billie Jean a day in London, what is kinda anonymous. It would you do? represents a lot of girls Oh boy. Who would I like Hood Deeds Sure, Michael Jackson was who used to - they used to slap? I think I’d find one WORDS By Eric Perrin // PHOTO COURTESY OPRAH.COM strange. He wore weird to call them groupies in of the tabloid paparazzi disguises and had ques- the ‘60s - they would hang and kick his ass, moonwalk Twelve months ago anything associated with Barack Obama was in tionable relationships around backstage doors style. I’d really like to knock style. And like most other pop culture icons, Black Eyed Peas front man with little boys. He was and any band that would them off one of those little Will.i.am was fully dedicated to the “Yes, We Can” campaign. But when born a poor black boy, come to town they would scooters they ride around the campaign concluded and the last bottle of champagne at the died a rich white woman, have a relationship with. on, I really would, knock last Inaugural party was popped, most Obamaniacs returned to their and became the most And I think I wrote this out the cameras right out of normal day-to-day lives, feeling content that they had completed their famous person on Earth of experiences with my their hands. They’re so an- end of the deal. along the way. OZONE brothers when I was little. noying. I’d go for them first. has researched the annals There were a lot of Billie They drive you nuts. You Will.i.am is one of the few that has continued to be inspired. Earlier this of Michael Jackson history Jeans out there. (TV Guide, can’t get away from them. year he contacted representatives for the Oprah Winfrey Show and and found 7 interview December 1999) It’s terrible.” (Gold Maga- expressed a desire to fund his own educational stimulus package—a Damn, Mike was zine, November 2002) questions to determine if scholarship he calls the “I Am Scholarship.” your favorite King of Pop gettin’ it in with Hard to believe, groupies all the but yes, Mike actu- was in fact the 7th letter of “Even though there’s an [economic] crisis, that doesn’t mean you stop the alphabet. way back in the ally said this. So 60s. Guess he used to be we have no choice dreaming,” explained Will.i.am. “So If I’m gonna go out there and say, A. Have you ever been commander in chief of his but to award The King of ‘Hey, let’s get Obama in the White House.’ And [then] expect him to do scared to go on stage? pimp ship, flyin’ high. Pop for such a gangsta everything, that’s pretty silly, right? I want to do my part.” No, I don’t remember ever statement. being afraid to go on stage. D. What’s your favorite In “doing his part,” the Angeles-bred musician is sending Elijah I’m more comfortable on Steven Spielberg Movie? G. Your home is quite Williams, Jaiquann Beckham and twins Darien and Barien White to the stage than giving this inter- I love E. T. ‘cause it reminds modest... and I don’t see colleges of their dreams: Hampton University, Wilmington University, view right now... In truth, me of me. Someone from any bling. How come Virginia Tech, and Cabrini College, respectively. The underprivileged, I really don’t like being in- another world coming you don’t have the big overachieving high school graduates will all receive full scholarships terviewed; I feel it’s such an down and you becoming diamond thing that says including tuition and fees, books, and room and board for four years intrusion. Every interview friends with them and this Michael? beginning in the Fall of 2009, paid for entirely by Will.i.am. I’ve ever done I’ve been person is, like, 800 years I’m modest in that way. forced into it. [The fans] old and he’s filling you with If I had it on, I would By investing in America’s future, the producer reared in the projects probably give it away to have been so nice to me all kinds of wisdom and by his single mother is pledging to help even more students of single he can teach you to fly. I the first kid to say, ‘Wow, I and that’s the only reason I parents who are unable to afford to rising costs of college. “You can agreed to do this. mean, who don’t wanna like your necklace.’ When I fly? (Smash Hits, January was growing up, stars like take your money and put it in the bank, or you can put it in our youth; (VH1, November 1996) you can put it in our future,” he concludes. Michael Jackson 1983) Sammy Davis, Fred Astaire, performed in front Mike was either Gene Kelly, if I simply said, of a damn near admitting he’s an ‘I love that shirt you’re a quarter billion alien or advocating wearing,’ they would give it people over 40 years, and cocaine use. Either way, to me. It’s a show business the fact that he never once it explains a lot, but still trait. Hand it over.” (At Large felt stage fright gives him doesn’t earn him any G’ with Geraldo Rivera, May a point. points. 2005) Imagine Mike B. Does it bother you to E. These performers- Jackson rocking a see people emulate you, [like] 50 Cent... they’re big ass chain with 1. Mr. Hit Dat Hoe like , Sisqo, Ginu- well-known because they a Bubbles the Chimp piece survived violent attacks by TV Johnny. Not a good Carrying on in DFW, Texas’ current wave of dance wine, Destiny’s Child? music (“The Dougie” & “Stanky Leg”), a character I don’t mind it at all. These where they almost died look, but since he’d “hand it named Mr. Hit Dat Hoe is putting his bid in to be are artists who grew up and now they’re into Hip over” to a little kid like Plies with my music. When Hop... it’s a different era in did at the Orlando Magic the next dance phenomenon. Oddly, his dance you grow up listening to pop music. Do you think game, MJ earns the title doesn’t involve any punching, slapping or kicking. somebody you admire, you’ll be more like them of Da Realest Goon from Its actually made up of hoe girl-like moves including you tend to become them. or will the world come Gary, Indiana. hip-shaking, waist-twirling and finger-snapping. You want to look like them, back to more pop and to dress like them. When traditional rock? Score 6/7 2. Extortion Ent. I was little, I was James I’ve done a lot of it already. I Overall, Michael Jackson Ironically, this label is based in Boston, home of OZONE’s 2004 Extor- Brown, I was Sammy Davis don’t really rap, but I could earns the highest rating in tionist of the Year Ray Benzino. From looking at their myspace page “Are You A G’” history. Say Jr., so I understand it. It’s a if I wanted to... I’ve written they house artists, DJ and host events. Hope they pay their staff. compliment. (Vibe, March songs with rap verses in what you want about his 2002) them for very famous tragic life, but you can’t It’s been 7 years rappers, but they’re much deny the fact that Michael 3. Mac Mustard since Jackson better at it than I am. (At Jackson was BAD. This rapper comes from same circle as Max B. and . He answered this Large with Geraldo Rivera, raps pretty good, but his name sounds like a failed A1 Sauce flavor. question and today there May 2005) - Compiled by Eric Perrin

24 // OZONE MAG (above L-R): Ace Hood & Rick Ross @ Phillips Arena for Birthday Bash in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Julia Beverly); JW & Young Jeezy @ Club Cinema for JW’s CTE signing party in Pom- pano Beach, FL (Photo: Terrence Tyson); TI & Maino @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle event in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Terrence Tyson)

01 // Johnnie Cabbell & his wife Sasha @ Johnnie Cabbell’s TV show launch party (Atlanta, GA) 02 // DJ Bigg V, Blessed, & Bigga Rankin @ Mississippi Delta Music Fest (Leland, MS) 03 // Byron Wright, Don Vito, Bishop of Crunk, & Lil Jon @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 04 // Yung Ralph & Young Strizzy @ Fox Sports Grill for Yung Ralph’s Big Cat Records signing party (Atlanta, GA) 05 // Elsa, Bibi Guns, & Maisha @ Esso for BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 06 // Shawn Prez, Diddy, Sean Garrett, & Tony Neal @ Justin’s for the CORE DJs Bad Boy event (Atlanta, GA) 07 // Ray J & Shorty Mack @ Sobe Live (Miami, FL) 08 // Stevie DaMann, DJ Prostyle, & Soulja Boy @ Power 95.3 (Orlando, FL) 09 // Lil Jon & TJ Chapman @ Esso for BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 10 // Devi Dev & Terrence Tyson @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 11 // J Holiday & fans @ Velvet Room (Atlanta, GA) 12 // Cash 64 & Ms Rivercity @ the W for CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 13 // Big CO & Jackie Chain @ The Loft for the CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 14 // Maino & DJ Skream @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash (Orlando, FL) 15 // DJ Kool Aid & Johnson Boy @ Mississippi Delta Music Fest (Leland, MS) 16 // Black, Rick Ross, Geter K, & Karmo @ Diamonds (Miami, FL) 17 // Aleshia Steele & DJ Juice @ the W Hotel for the CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 18 // Paul Wall & DJ Scorpio @ The Loft (Atlanta, GA) 19 // Grand Prix & DJ Speedracer @ The Loft for the CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 20 // DJ Quote & DJ Rip @ Justin’s for The CORE DJs Bad Boy event (Atlanta, GA)

Photo Credits: Devon Buckner (04); Edward Hall (02,15); J Lash (16); Julia Beverly (03,05,06,07,09,17); Malik Abdul (01,08,14); Ms Rivercity (11,12,18); Terrence Tyson (10,13,19,20)

OZONE MAG // 25 SPECTACULAR (OF PRETTY RICKY) & RILEY (OF THE BOONDOCKS)

Riley: Hey Spectacular, since I like yo music and you gay, does that make me gay? Cause that video you made was real gay, nigga. Spectacular: That video wasn’t gay, it was for my fans. They asked me to do it so I did it. Riley: Well, I’m yo fan nigga, and I ain’t Gay! Spectacular: It wasn’t for you, Riley, it was for the ladies. And people don’t really buy records like that no mo’ so you gotta satisfy ‘em. Riley: But I watched that shit and I wasn’t satisfied. It looked pretty gay to me. Spectacular: Did you watch the whole thing? Riley: Yeah, I watched the whole thing, nigga. Why? Spectacular: Damn, since you watched the whole thing you might be gay lil’ homie. But at the same time, I ain’t got nothing against gay people. The homo- sexual community supports Pretty Ricky and you buy our albums and come to our shows. So I got nothing against you. Riley: Hold on nigga, I ain’t homo! Hell naw…nigga, you gay! And I heard you was bout to get paid 100,000 to be in a naked gay magazine. Spectacular: I mean, I’m flattered that they would offer the opportunity, cause I just started my modeling, you know what I’m sayin... Riley: Not really, nigga. I know you need the money, cause yo group ain’t ma- kin it without Pleasure P, but posing naked in gay magazine is…gay! Spectacular: But really, I’m bout to be in all the magazines, Playgirl, Playboy, GQ, Men’s Health, Business Week, XXL, Maxim, OZONE, Home and Gardens, OZONE EXCLUSIVE pretty much all of ‘em. So at the end of the day, a gay magazine is just another magazine for my fans.

Textin’ is no longer safe now that OZONE’s Riley: Hold on nigga, you ain’t bout to be in OZONE. Hahahahaha!! Nigga, you crazy. I know them fools at OZONE and they ain’t gay! dangerous minds have hacked the system. Spectacular: Well maybe not OZONE, but definitely XXL. Riley: Well that makes more sense…but I don’t care what magazines you be in, I just wanted to make sure I’m not gay for liking yo’ music. Spectacular: Just make sure you support my new company, Spectacular Ice. Big Boy Ice at Little Boy Price. Riley: Okay, I will as long as you give me a discount... Hey, are you gonna be at the Gangstalicious Album release party tonight? Spectacular: Yeah, he asked me to a dancer in his next video so I’ll definitely be there. Riley: Cool, see you there Spectacular: Fa sho. Homies over hoes.

From the minds of Eric Perrin & Randy Roper Photo by Julia Beverly

26 // OZONE MAG (above L-R): OJ da Juiceman & Shawty Lo @ Phillips Arena for Birthday Bash in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Julia Beverly); Glasses Malone & Mack 10 on the set of Glasses Malone’s “Sun Come Up” video shoot in Miami, FL (Photo: J Lash); 2 Pistols & video model on the set of 2 Pistols’ “Lights Down Low” video shoot in Tampa, FL (Photo: Julia Beverly)

01 // Janine, Diamond, Attitude, & Jackie @ CORE Models pool party (Atlanta, GA) 02 // Corey Cleghorn & JuJu of Fam Life @ Dallas Convention Center (Dallas, TX) 03 // Dough- ski, Youngbleed, & Mr Pookie @ Stankofa for the Stop the Violence event (Dallas, TX) 04 // Hen Roc, DJ Bobby Black, & Gorilla Zoe @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash (Orlando, FL) 05 // Spike, 2 Pistols, guest, & Chris on the set of 2 Pistols’ “Lights Down Low” video shoot (Tampa, FL) 06 // Young Dro & BOB @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle event (Atlanta, GA) 07 // DJ Nasty, DJ Demp, & DJ Khaled @ Mansion for Rick Ross’s “Deeper Than Rap” release party (Miami, FL) 08 // DJ Spinz, , & DJ Scream on the set of DJ Scream’s “On My Grind” video shoot (Atlanta, GA) 09 // Sean Garrett & Manny Halley @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 10 // Unladylike @ the W Hotel for the CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 11 // MTV’s Rahman Dukes & Shaheim Reid @ Mansion for Rick Ross’s “Deeper Than Rap” release party (Miami, FL) 12 // DJ Frogie & DJ Aaries on the set of DJ Scream’s “On My Grind” video shoot (Atlanta, GA) 13 // Butta & the Merk Camp @ Ear to Da Street music conference (Birmingham, AL) 14 // Block Life & DJ Fresh @ the W for CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 15 // Tabbie, JuJu of Fam Life, & Bigg V @ DSU (Cleveland, MS) 16 // Ray J & Monika Olimpew @ Sobe Live (Miami, FL) 17 // Scales of the Nappy Roots, Mickey Factz, & Big V of the Nappy Roots @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 18 // Bay Bay, Sipp the Surgeon, JuJu, Veda Loca, Porscha, Pookie, Ike, J Kash, & Loaded @ Urban South Radio (Dallas, TX) 19 // Bigga Rankin, DJ Impact, TJ Chapman, & DJ Nasty @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA)

Photo Credits: Edward Hall (02,03,15,18); Julia Beverly (05,07,09,10,11,16,17); Malik Abdul (04,13); Ms Rivercity (08,12,14); Terrence Tyson (01,06,19)

OZONE MAG // 27 Philadelphia native Covergirl probably knows more about sex than your high school health teacher, but then again, she’s supposed to.

As a biology major with plans of one day becoming a pediatri- cian, the 23-year-old Georgia State University student spends her mornings learning about the human body, reproduction, and anatomy, and nights entertaining her future patients’ fathers with displays of her own anatomy.

Her 36-25-38 structure is definitely a gift of nature, but the surprisingly humble stripper is quite modest in regards to her appearance. “When I’m at work I just dance,” she says. “I’m sure my looks have something to do with it, but I never think about that.”

In fact, she didn’t even think of her own alias, it was simply given to her by a friend. “Originally, my name was going to be Desire,” she reveals. “When I first started dancing a friend convinced me to go with the name Covergirl, and I didn’t really care either way.”

The vivacious Virgo does, however, care about her future career. She loves kids, but doesn’t have to time to start a family of her own yet and is far more studious than most models, evidenced by the fact she is perhaps the only chick in the industry without a Myspace page.

“Whenever I’m on the computer I’m studying and doing home- work,” she admits. “I don’t have time for all that other stuff.” A former grocery store cashier, Covergirl fled frigid Philadelphia for Atlanta after high school and hasn’t looked back in 7 years. She believes the biggest difference between the two cities is the mentality.

“In Philly, nobody is doing nothing with their lives. [In Atlanta] at least people are trying,” she says. “I know I’m gonna have a lot of challenges as a pediatrician, but I’m not worried about that. I’ll just have to deal with it when I get there.”

Words by Eric Perrin

Website: Strokersclub.com Booking: myspace.com/strokersatl Photography: DC The Brain Supreme dcphotoimaging.com Make up and Hair Styling by Mike Mike 678-732-5285

28 // OZONE MAG (above L-R): J Money & Meany of the Shop Boyz on the set of DJ Scream’s “On My Grind” video shoot in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Ms Rivercity); Glasses Malone & First Lady on the set of his “Sun Come Up” video shoot in Miami, FL (Photo: J Lash); Maino & Big Kuntry @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle event in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Terrence Tyson)

01 // G Mack, Kim Ellis, & Acafool @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 02 // Jessie Maguire & Willy Northpole @ the W for CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 03 // DJ Drama & Chill da Million Dollar Man (Atlanta, GA) 04 // Ray J & Freestyle Steve @ Sobe Live (Miami, FL) 05 // Spiff TV, DJ Nasty, The Incredibles, Bali, The Runners, & DJ Khaled @ Mansion for Rick Ross’s “Deeper Than Rap” release party (Miami, FL) 06 // Glasses Malone & Haitian Fresh on the set of Glasses Malone’s “Sun Come Up” video shoot (Miami, FL) 07 // Chaos & DJ Q45 @ Sobe Live for JB’s Miami Bday Bash (Miami, FL) 08 // 2 Pistols & Boy Wonder on the set of 2 Pistols’ “Lights Down Low” video shoot (Tampa, FL) 09 // Sean Garrett, Catherine Brewton, & Lil Jon @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 10 // DJ Montay & Dorrough (Atlanta, GA) 11 // Ike G Da, Ed the World Famous, & DJ Nasty @ the W Hotel for the CORE DJs Retreat’s Def Jam Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 12 // DJ Scream, DJ Spinz, Shawty Lo, & Braski on the set of DJ Scream’s “On My Grind” video shoot (Atlanta, GA) 13 // Bizzle & guest @ Tabu for Dawgman’s Crunkfest (Orlando, FL) 14 // Kim Ellis & Rob Gold @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (At- lanta, GA) 15 // DJ Dre & Ricochet @ Wet Willies (Fort Worth, TX) 16 // Lil Wil, Doughski G, & DJ Tiger @ K104 (Dallas, TX) 17 // Wayne Williams & Chaka Zulu @ Red Carpet Lanes for the CORE DJs DTP bowling event (Atlanta, GA) 18 // Bibi Guns & DJ Nasty @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 19 // Nino, Hot Boy Star, & Lady C @ Mambo’s for Stephanie of 97.9’s birthday bash (Dallas, TX) 20 // Dorrough & DJ Dr Doom @ the W for CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA)

Photo Credits: Edward Hall (15,16,19); J Lash (06,07); Julia Beverly (04,05,08,09,11,18); Kingpin (03); Malik Abdul (13); Ms Rivercity (02,10,12,17,20); Terrence Tyson (01,14)

OZONE MAG // 29 hreveport, Louisiana native DJ HollyHood Bay Bay is one of the bers didn’t fall. Since I was in a small market I had a lot of freedom and a lot most influential DJs in the country. Known as the inspiration of influence. Becoming a respected radio personality enabled me to build behind Hurricane Chris’ breakout single, “Ay Bay Bay,” and for his and maintain good relationships with people in the industry. ability to launch an artist’s career, Bay Bay attributes his success toS hard work and solid relationships. Currently an on-air personality on The key to a good industry relationship is the same as with any relationship: Dallas’ K104, the self-proclaimed “Street A&R” who began as a dance Always have communication and an open understanding. You have to do choreographer is witnessing his own career take off. Here, he tells his what you say you’re gonna do, keep it as real as you can, and don’t promise story: nobody nothing that you can’t deliver. If you can’t do it, just say you can’t do it. If you do agree to do something and realize later that you can’t do, “I was the ambassador of the Ratchet City movement, born and raised in call them and let them know you can’t do it. Accountability is important. Shreveport, Louisiana. Throughout the whole success of the “Ay Bay Bay” record, situations happened that tried to set me back, but it was just minor By building good relationships with A&Rs and people in high places, along setbacks for a major comeback. After all the hype and success I was re- with me being able to break an unknown artist in both the club and on cruited to the number 4 [radio] station in the country, which is in Dallas, TX. radio, I really have a monopoly. I’ve used this situation to break several artists. I’ve been responsible for breaking and launching Hurricane Chris, I’ve been in the industry for 11 years, but I’m actually not a DJ. I’m a moti- The GS Boyz, Dorrough Music, and Lil Josh and Ernest outta Baton Rouge. vational speaker; a person of influence. I got started as a dance choreogra- II think I’ve been very inspirational to most of the artists in the game. They pher for the band at Grambling State University. I did a year and a half there know who they are! and then I came back to help my alma mater, Fair Park High School’s band. One day the announcer got sick, so they asked me to announce for the People always ask me about [the current situation with] me and Hurricane band. Being the hype man for the band helped me with my speaking skills Chris, and the thing about me and Chris, it’s like family. You gon’ have and I became a real popular guy around town. disagreements as far as ups and downs. We haven’t spoken in a while, but I stay in contact with his mom and his manager and I just know if I really Whenever I went to the club, I would just walk in, the DJs would hand me needed him he’d be there for me and I’d be there for him. It’s just two the microphone, and I would say shit that got everybody crunk. The club people that have egos—but I don’t have that big of an ego where I would owner noticed it, so I stopped doing it for free and they started paying me let it end a friendship. for it. I was the guy that came in with all the energy and made people party. Before I go, I gotta shout out Big Poppa, KP, Wild Yella, Baby 3, Blitz, T.O.B, This led me to radio, and soon I had the number one radio show on a 3000 Lil Six, TNT, T-Willz, Dazasta, Big Chief, D-Bo. I mess with the underdogs, the watt station in Shreveport going up against a 60,000 watt station in Dallas. people who ain’t got it, because we’re trying to change people’s lives.” Radio gave me the ability to give a lot of local love on the airwaves. The [program directors] let me do whatever I wanted to do as long as the num- As told to Eric Perrin // Photo by Eric Perrin

30 // OZONE MAG (above L-R): Mack Maine & @ Phillips Arena for Birthday Bash in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Julia Beverly); Al Sharpton & Young Jeezy @ Hot 97 Summer Jam in New York, NY (Photo: Thaddaeus McAdams); Wendy Day reppin’ Big Meech @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Terrence Tyson)

01 // Diamond & guest @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 02 // Cory Mo & DJ T-Roc on the set of DJ Scream’s “On My Grind” video shoot (Atlanta, GA) 03 // Big Tuck & ladies @ Club Flow for Trina concert (Dallas, TX) 04 // Yung Ralph & Skoolboy @ Fox Sports Grill for Yung Ralph’s Big Cat Records signing party (Atlanta, GA) 05 // FLY & ladies @ Sobe Live (Miami, FL) 06 // Slim & Dre on the set of 2 Pistols’ “Lights Down Low” video shoot (Tampa, FL) 07 // Maino & Devi Dev @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle event (Atlanta, GA) 08 // Candy & Tony Neal @ Young Cash’s birthday party (Atlanta, GA) 09 // Ricco Barrino & Yung LA on the set of Yung LA’s “Futuristic Love” (Atlanta, GA) 10 // Lil Jon, DJ Trauma, & Bryan Michael Cox @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 11 // DJ Rip & Jarvis @ Justin’s for The CORE DJs Bad Boy event (Atlanta, GA) 12 // Sweetness & Bigga Rankin @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 13 // TMR Models, Glasses Malone, Baby, & Mack 10 on the set of Glasses Malone’s “Sun Come Up” video shoot (Miami, FL) 14 // Bama & Meany @ Club Mariachi (Atlanta, GA) 15 // Paul Wall & Ms Rita @ 97.9 The Beat car show (Dallas, TX) 16 // DJ Lil E, Lady C, & JuJu of Fam Life @ Ju Ju’s birthday bash (Dallas, TX) 17 // J-Kash & Big Chief @ Mambo’s for Stephanie of 97.9’s birthday bash (Dallas, TX) 18 // Papa Duck & Bali @ Skye Nightclub (Tampa, FL) 19 // Juggie & DJ Finesse @ Justin’s for the CORE DJs Bad Boy event (Atlanta, GA) 20 // Young Cash & Grand Prix @ Plush (Jacksonville, FL) 21 // Uncle Luke & porn stars @ Cameo (Miami, FL)

Photo Credits: Devon Buckner (04); Edward Hall (03,16,17); J Lash (05,13,21); Julia Beverly (01,06,10,11,19); Luis Santana (18); Malik Abdul (08); Ms Rivercity (02,09,14,20); Terrence Tyson (07,12); Tre Dubb (15)

OZONE MAG // 31 Patiently Waiting

or years, the term “Zoe” has been used as an expression of Once Florida’s Haiti community caught wind of “I’mma Zoe,” his single endearment amongst people of Haitian decent. But according to quickly became a Haitian anthem throughout the Sunshine State. Dada Florida rookie Black Dada, his breakthrough single “I’mma Zoe” signed with Miami indie label Strictly Business Records (also home to is more than a song that pertains to his Haitian roots. It’s a song standout Miami rapper Redd ), and due to his single’s continued Fthat can represent anyone that’s been through a struggle. “If you’re some- growth, coupled with a winning Wild Out Wednesday performance on body that’s been through a lot, and has still been able to overcome, no BET’s 106 & Park, major labels started calling. Universal, Atlantic, Def Jam matter what it was, you’re a Zoe,” the singer explains. “Being that we were and Warner Bros. all showed interest, but in the end Dada inked a deal with considered as slaves first, we were able to overcome all of that, and be on Universal Republic. top, where in a sense, we run the US, when it was something that people thought it’d never happen. But that’s what a Zoe is, what [Barack] Obama He’s currently working on his debut album, tentatively titled, F.L.A. (First did. But at the same time it’s a Haitian root word.” Love and Addiction), and with all eyes on Black Dada, the Florida neophyte is aiming to use the attention to unite the state that raised him. “I want Long before our president was Black, Dada was born in Haiti’s capital city, to rep Florida to the fullest,” he says. “I wanna start a Florida movement, Port-au-Prince. His father, a welder, and mother, a nurse aide, first left Haiti instead of Dade County [and] Broward County. We need to merge the shit when Dada was five-years-old and two years later, their family relocated to together and make it big, and become the next New York and Atlanta.” Zoes Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Growing up, Dada’s love for music and singing in and Floridian citizens should be proud. the church choir lead the Broward County vocalist to pursue a career in mu- sic. He began performing throughout South Florida, and built relationships Words by Randy Roper with artists like Ace Hood, Rick Ross, Ball Greezy and Iconz Music. Photo by David Rosario

32 // OZONE MAG Patiently Waiting

(above L-R): Sean Garrett & Lil Jon @ Esso for BMI Urban Showcase in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Julia Beverly); Dancer reppin’ OZONE @ Stiletto’s in Euless, TX (Photo: Edward Hall); Young Dro & Maino @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle event in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Terrence Tyson)

01 // Lil Wil & DJ Bigg V @ DSU (Cleveland, MS) 02 // Paco, DJ Lil E, & Turro @ Ju Ju’s birthday bash (Dallas, TX) 03 // Sherrie & Tamiko Hope @ Johnnie Cabbell’s TV show launch party (Atlanta, GA) 04 // J Kash & Big Chief @ Mambo’s (Dallas, TX) 05 // Fredo & JuJu of Fam Life @ Club Flow for Trina concert (Dallas, TX) 06 // Gucci Poochie, Rick Ross, & Masspike Miles @ Karu & Y for Rick Ross’s birthday party (Miami, FL) 07 // DJ Christion, Cool & Dre, 2 Pistols, & Young Joe on the set of 2 Pistols’ “Lights Down Low” video shoot (Tampa, FL) 08 // Red Cafe, Akon, & Tony Neal @ Justin’s for the CORE DJs Bad Boy event (Atlanta, GA) 09 // Stephanie & BC @ Mambo’s for Stephanie of 97.9’s birthday bash (Dallas, TX) 10 // Bigga Rankin, G Mack, & Lil Cali @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 11 // Colione, Ms Rivercity, & Rook @ Hot Beats (Atlanta, GA) 12 // Matt Daniels & 2 Pistols on the set of 2 Pistols’ “Lights Down Low” video shoot (Tampa, FL) 13 // DJ Magic, Trina, & JuJu of Fam Life @ Club Flow for Trina concert (Dallas, TX) 14 // DJ Rip, Devi Dev, & Roccett @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 15 // Kiki J & Pookie from UrbanSouth @ K104 (Dallas, TX) 16 // Hen Roc & Shawn Prez @ Justin’s for The CORE DJs Bad Boy event (Atlanta, GA) 17 // Big Hood Boss & Tum Tum @ Tini Bar for Dorrough’s signing party (Dallas, TX)

Photo Credits: Edward Hall (01,02,04,05,09,13,15,17); J Lash (06); Julia Beverly (07,08,12); Malik Abdul (03); Ms Rivercity (11); Terrence Tyson (10,14,16)

OZONE MAG // 33 Patiently Waiting

lthough Tampa has become known as the homeland of “jook” “Kee heard [‘Shawty Tear It Up’] the first time, and he said, ‘I don’t think this music, Tampa resident and Orlando native Javon Black doesn’t track will be that [big],’ Black recalls. “We played it at a club one night, and want to be categorized solely as a “jook” artist. “I do jook records everyone started vibing to it. Ever since then it took off.” for other artists, but it’s not something that I do personally,” the Arising singer/ says of the upbeat blend of Hip Hop, bass, reggae The single did more than take off. With this year’s NFL Super Bowl taking and dancehall music. “It is good music, [but] my style is like old school R&B, place in Tampa, the buzz in the city surrounding the record was enough to with a new school feel.” garner attention of record executives and music industry insiders vacation- ing the town for the weekend’s festivities, which ultimately landed Black Black’s interest in music began around the year 2000. As a big fan of the and KeeZone Entertainment a deal with Universal Republic. In addition, R&B group , he witnessed the solo success of the group’s lead singer Miami rapper/singer Sean Kingston reached out recorded a remix to the Sisqó, and figured, “if someone like that can do it, then, hey, maybe I can record with Black. do it.” With that, he began studying the art of music—singing, songwriting, and producing. He later departed Orlando for the city of Tampa, where he Now that his major label deal is secured, and his yet to be titled debut enrolled in college at the International Academy of Design & Technology, album is in the works, Black is primed to put himself, KeeZone and Jook majoring in recording arts & sciences. City on the map. And although he doesn’t want to be pigeonholed as a jook artist, he does understand his role in his region’s movement. “It’s a Not long after moving to Tampa, he met Lil Kee, a local producer/rapper. big Jook City movement right now,” he says. “It’s a real smooth flavor, from The two began collaborating, and Black soon signed to Kee’s company, Miami back down to Tampa, it’s real big. So, hopefully this year, people will KeeZone Productions. Their key collaborative effort came in the single start realizing that jook music is music that you can vibe to, party to, dance “Shawty Tear It Up,” which caught fire in Tampa. Before they knew it, the to.” We’ll jook to that. single was spinning in every club and urban radio station in Central Florida. Words by Randy Roper

34 // OZONE MAG Patiently Waiting

(above L-R): Hurricane Chris & @ Sobe Live in Miami, FL; T-Pain & Ace Hood on the set of “Overtime” in Miami, FL (Photos: J Lash); 2 Pistols pourin’ some Hennessy for C-Ride on the set of 2 Pistols’ “Lights Down Low” video shoot in Tampa, FL (Photo: Julia Beverly)

01 // DJ Khaled, Manny Halley, Bryan Michael Cox, guest, Lil Jon, Bishop of Crunk, & DJ Trauma @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 02 // Roccett, 211, & Traxamil- lion @ Justin’s for The CORE DJs Bad Boy event (Atlanta, GA) 03 // Slim, 2 Pistols, & Rage on the set of 2 Pistols’ “Lights Down Low” video shoot (Tampa, FL) 04 // Drumma Boy & DJ Trauma @ Luckie Lounge for DJ Trauma’s Birthday Bash (Atlanta, GA) 05 // Director Peter Spirer & Trick Daddy on the set of the movie “Just Another Day” (Orlando, FL) 06 // VIC & Gravy @ Esso for BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 07 // Pretty Ricky & Ray J @ Sobe Live (Miami, FL) 08 // OZONE crew Malik Abdul, Kenny Brewer, Kerisha Smith, Kisha Smith, Eric Perrin, Tasha Heran, Mz Skittles, & Julia Beverly @ Luckie Lounge for JB’s ATL Bday Party (Atlanta, GA) 09 // DJ Princess Cut & friends @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle event (Atlanta, GA) 10 // Maguire, Mickey Factz, Ms Rivercity, & Devi Dev @ Def Jam Showcase during the CORE DJs Retreat (Atlanta, GA) 11 // Mr CC & David @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash (Orlando, FL) 12 // Ladies @ CORE Models pool party (Atlanta, GA) 13 // The Package Store @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (At- lanta, GA) 14 // Green Lantern & Jason Geter @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 15 // Bryan Michael Cox & DJ Khaled @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 16 // JT tha Bigga Figga & Ms Rivercity @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 17 // 2 Pistols, Young Joe, & C-Ride on the set of 2 Pistols’ “Lights Down Low” video shoot (Tampa, FL) 18 // Cassie & Shawn Prez @ Justin’s for The CORE DJs Bad Boy event (Atlanta, GA) 19 // Bertell & Trey Songz @ Esso for the BMI Urban Showcase (Atlanta, GA)

Photo Credits: Devon Buckner (04); Eric Perrin (08); Julia Beverly (01,02,03,06,07,13,14,15,17,18,19); Lawrence Odum (05); Malik Abdul (11); Ms Rivercity (10); Terrence Tyson (09,12,16)

OZONE MAG // 35 nitially just a group of “swagged up kids in school,” the Rich Kids (Khaelub, Baby Charles, Skateboard Skooley, Shad and June) became a rap group less than a year ago.I That may not be a long time by most people’s standards, but when you’re gifted with a mix of entertaining personalities, word spreads quickly. The group soon found a home with .

“We started rapping like 8 months ago,” Khaelub says. “We were already in the studio, but we were just playing around and never thought about rap- pin’. ‘What’s Up’ was the first song we recorded.”

A week after finishing “What’s Up,” the group recorded “My Partna ‘Dem” with Young Dro, giving The Rich Kids two instant hits in Atlanta.

Their mesh of sounds, fun energy, and signature dance moves made them most requested in their hometown, both in the clubs and on the radio. Skooley, the Rich Kids’ youngest member and hook singer, explains their fast rise to fame. “Not being big-headed,” he says, “but as more experienced people told us how big we were gonna be, the more we felt the same way.”

Currently working on a mixtape with DJs Southan- bred and Infamous titled Money Swagg, which is also the name of their dance, The Rich Kids are still in the development stages. KT, their manager and longtime Grand Hustle affiliate, says, “We’re work- ing on getting the records in rotation, working on this mixtape, and getting the paperwork right.”

With all the pieces falling into place, the records are starting to make their way into other markets like , Tennessee, Florida, and South Caro- lina, making The Rich Kids regional celebrities. It’s an experience the boys are more than appreciative of. “I’ve been in the club before, but I ain’t never been in the club like a star,” Shad explains. “It gave me a better feeling about myself. I hope for much success in the future, and money.”

“I really love doing this,” Baby Charles adds. “I love going to the studio and doing the shows and stuff. We doing this for y’all.” Their energetic spirits have gotten them a long Patiently way thus far, and everyone is looking at the Rich Kids as the next big trend in Atlanta. “They are very talented and what they are doing hasn’t been Waiting done in a long time,” concludes KT. “They bring a lot of energy to the stage and in the booth. They some dang characters for real; that’s what we’re selling. They’ve got what it takes.”

Words by Ms Rivercity Photo by Devon Buckner

36 // OZONE MAG (above L-R): TI & Tiny @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle event in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Terrence Tyson); Paul Wall @ The Loft in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Ms Rivercity); Playboy Tre @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle event in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Terrence Tyson)

01 // DJ Dave & Tity Boy of Playaz Circle @ Luckie Lounge for DJ Trauma’s Birthday Bash (Atlanta, GA) 02 // Jermaine Dupri @ Magic City (Atlanta, GA) 03 // Zaytoven @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 04 // Lo Fat @ Johnnie Cabbell’s TV show launch party (Atlanta, GA) 05 // Young Dro @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle Patiently event (Atlanta, GA) 06 // Yashi @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL) 07 // Bishop of Crunk @ Luckie Lounge for DJ Trauma’s Birthday Bash (Atlanta, GA) 08 // DJ Koolaid @ Plush (Jacksonville, FL) 09 // Total Kaos & ladies @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL) 10 // Twaun Pledger & guest @ Ear to Da Street music conference (Birmingham, AL) 11 // Alfamega @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle event (Atlanta, GA) 12 // M16 @ Ear to Da Street music conference (Birmingham, AL) 13 // JW & Boo da Boss Playa @ Waiting Luckie Lounge for DJ Trauma’s Birthday Bash (Atlanta, GA) 14 // Big Chief on the set of Big Hood Boss’s video shoot (Dallas, TX) 15 // Carol City Cartel @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL) 16 // Atiba @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash (Orlando, FL) 17 // Rico Brooks @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash (Orlando, FL) 18 // DJ 151 @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL) 19 // Kevin Shine & DJ Dave @ the Hot Block Awards (Atlanta, GA) 20 // Physha P & Kim Ellis @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 21 // Purrdy Girls & Strizzy @ the W Hotel for the CORE DJs Retreat’s Def Jam Showcase (Atlanta, GA) 22 // Keinon Johnson @ Luckie Lounge for DJ Trauma’s Birth- day Bash (Atlanta, GA) 23 // Southern Syrup DVD @ Tailgate Park (Jacksonville, FL) 24 // Sweetness & TJ Chapman @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 25 // Bruck Up @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash (Orlando, FL) 26 // T Rose & Chelsie @ Ear to Da Street music conference (Birmingham, AL) 27 // Mob Boss & ladies @ Tailgate Park (Jacksonville, FL) 28 // DJ Dr Doom, Hen Roc, & DJ Impact @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 29 // Chase Pat, Bruce Wayne, & Rico @ Stankofa for the Stop the Violence event (Dallas, TX) 30 // JoSki Love & guest @ Ear to Da Street music conference (Birmingham, AL) 31 // Guest & Vawn @ Luckie Lounge for DJ Trauma’s Birthday Bash (Atlanta, GA) 32 // DJ Holiday & DJ Trauma @ Luckie Lounge for DJ Trauma’s Birthday Bash (Atlanta, GA) 33 // Geter K @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahas- see, FL) 34 // DJ White Chocolate @ 97.9 The Beat car show (Dallas, TX) 35 // Mic Wrecka & Big Will of Mentally Sedated @ Club Inferno (Killeen, TX)

Photo Credits: Devon Buckner (01,07,13,19,22,31,32); Edward Hall (29); Julia Beverly (21); Malik Abdul (04,06,09,10,12,15,16,17,18,23,25,26,27,30,33); Ms Ja (02); Ms Rivercity (08,14); Terrence Tyson (03,05,11,20,24,28); Tre Dubb (34,35)

OZONE MAG // 37 ew Corporate Thugz Entertainment signee JW has already made an impres- sion on both his co-workers and even N some of his fans. “They think I’m crazy,” says the Ft. Lauderdale, Florida native, with an intensity in his eyes rivaling 2Pac’s “I am crazy” scene from Juice. “But I’m blessed. They think I’m crazy when I talk like this, about God all the time. But I have to talk like this. If I don’t I’m not being true to who I am. God gave me this vision, and I’d be wrong if I don’t mention that. I know what it is. I’ve only been rapping a year and a half. I’d be wrong to say my name is buzzing in Florida only because of me. Big up to God.”

Powered by his street single “Baik At It” and his guest appearance on Young Jeezy’s “Biggest Movie Ever,” JW’s current mixtape series Get It From the Muscle is more chest-pounding than bible-thumping, but he makes sure his music is as honest as possible. So yes, you will hear him talk legal problems he had a decade ago and the lavish lifestyle he lives now. But you will also hear him talk about earning a football scholarship to Auburn University and graduating from Illinois State University with a degree in busi- ness.

“When you see people’s mixtape or album covers, they’re standing there with money, dope, guns and scales,” JW sighs. “Mine is just me. You’re gonna hear my life situations. I’m from the hood and I’ve been through good and hard things like everybody else. I just want to be a voice and relate to the people.”

While his speaking voice may remind you of Trick Daddy, JW’s fiery vocal inflection on his records immediately kill any impending comparisons. The excitement may stem from the fact that JW has only been rapping for a short time, leaving him with plenty of untapped energy to get out when in the booth. In fact, the entire first volume of Get It From the Muscle were comprised of the first recordings he’d ever made. Every song he’s done up to this point is the soundtrack of his life.

“No disrespect to any rappers and I hope no one takes this the wrong way, but I’m not a rapper,” he says. “I’m more like a preacher. This shit comes from my heart. I’m not one to say ‘Give me a beat and I’ma kill it.’ I’m confident that I could, but my shit has to Patiently make sense. It has to be something the people can relate to. The beats tell me what to say.” Waiting He adds, “Don’t get me wrong, I respect the Hip Hop culture. I have to. I can’t lie and say that I indulged in it for years, because I haven’t. But I am growing with it.”

Words by Maurice G. Garland Photo by Terrence Tyson

38 // OZONE MAG (above L-R): Neechie & Spark Dawg @ All Pro Studios in Jacksonville, FL (Photo: Ms Rivercity); @ Luckie Lounge for DJ Trauma’s Birthday Bash in Atlanta, GA (Photo: Devon Buckner); Maino @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash in Orlando, FL (Photo: Malik Abdul)

01 // Ray J @ Sobe Live (Miami, FL) 02 // Lyfe Jennings @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle event (Atlanta, GA) 03 // DJ G Mack @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Semi- nar (Atlanta, GA) 04 // Midget Mac & Duval crew @ Bourbon St Station (Jacksonville, FL) 05 // Unladylike @ Luckie Lounge for DJ Trauma’s Birthday Bash (Atlanta, GA) Patiently 06 // Lil Scrappy @ Platinum 21 (Atlanta, GA) 07 // Pretty Ricky @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL) 08 // Acafool @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 09 // Keisha @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL) 10 // Yung Ralph @ Fox Sports Grill for Yung Ralph’s Big Cat Records signing party (Atlanta, GA) 11 // DJ Smallz & Ms Honey Siccle @ Ms Honey Siccle’s release party (Oklahoma City, OK) 12 // DJ Ace & DJ Teknikz @ Fox Sports Grill for Yung Ralph’s Big Cat Records signing party (Atlanta, GA) Waiting 13 // T Rose & Butta @ Ear to Da Street music conference (Birmingham, AL) 14 // Gorilla Zoe & Shawn Prez @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash (Orlando, FL) 15 // Honee & Malik Abdul @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL) 16 // Johnnie Cabbell @ Johnnie Cabbell’s TV show launch party (Atlanta, GA) 17 // MLK @ Luckie Lounge for DJ Trauma’s Birthday Bash (Atlanta, GA) 18 // Jessica Rochelle, Teddy T, & Miss Ricki @ The CORE DJs Retreat In The Know Seminar (Atlanta, GA) 19 // Tina, Kiki J, & Ebony J on the set of Big Hood Boss’s video shoot (Dallas, TX) 20 // Mr Vegas @ UCF Arena for DJ Prostyle’s birthday bash (Orlando, FL) 21 // Shane of Cool Runnings @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL) 22 // Arab @ 97.9 The Beat car show (Dallas, TX) 23 // Black-Jackk @ Kalyko’s Video Shoot (Cincinnati, OH) 24 // DJ King Ron @ Bourbon St Station (Jacksonville, FL) 25 // Young Capone @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL) 26 // Turro & John 20 @ Richmind Records party (Dallas, TX) 27 // Jackie Chain & guest @ Crucial for the CORE DJs Grand Hustle event (Atlanta, GA) 28 // Don Cannon & DJ Infamous @ Luckie Lounge for DJ Trauma’s Birthday Bash (Atlanta, GA) 29 // Calico Jonez & guest @ Ear to Da Street music conference (Birmingham, AL) 30 // B Luck @ Kalyko’s Video Shoot (Cincinnati, OH) 31 // Spectacular @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL) 32 // Ceasar, Que P, & Bigg Buck @ Richmind Records party (Dallas, TX) 33 // DJ Demp @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL) 34 // Chop Chop @ Ms Honey Siccle’s release party (Oklahoma City, OK) 35 // Big Nick & Cole @ The Moon for TJ’s DJ’s (Tallahassee, FL)

Photo Credits: Devon Buckner (05,10,12,17,28); Edward Hall (11,19,26,32,34); Judy Jones (23,30); Julia Beverly (01); Malik Abdul (06,07,09,13,14,15,16,20,21,25,29,31,33,35); Terrence Tyson (02,03,04,08,18,24,27); Tre Dubb (22)

OZONE MAG // 39 hen the So Icey brand name comes to mind, off top you probably think of Gucci Mane, followed by newcomer OJ da Juiceman. Now there is another SoW Icey offspring growing in the South – . Taken under Gucci’s wing to learn the ropes, Waka surprised himself with how easily he took to the sport of rapping.

“Gucci showed me how to rap. He said, ‘Bro, dis shit easy.’ I just listened to what my boy said, and this shit is easy. I been rappin’ for like a year now.”

Though he claims it’s been easy, Waka may not realize how difficult it is for the average rapper to collect a fanbase his size, especially in such a short amount of time. With the release of his first mixtape earlier this year, the 23-year-old quickly found out his forte was with the female audience.

“I’ve got more girl fans than anything,” he claims. “I’ve got a song called ‘Down Ass Girl’ and I was just playin’ [when I made that song] but they liked that a lot. That’s like the #1 song on the mixtape.”

The entire mixtape was recorded in a week, and during that week Waka created several hits: “Down Ass Girl,” “Dreads and Golds,” and his current club record, “O Let’s Do It.” The latter song has increased his scope of listeners and made him one to follow in the streets of Atlanta.

Self-described as a mix between Eazy E, Lil Jon, and Gu- cci Mane, Waka’s goal with music is to get people crunk and make girls dance. Sounds simple enough, but it’s a far different goal than what he might have had grow- ing up. Originally from New York, Waka relocated to Riverdale, GA when he was 9 years old, over a decade before his music profession materialized.

“Swear to God, I liked drug dealers and basketball play- ers when I was growing up,” Waka says of his childhood role models. “It was either sell drugs or play basketball.” But now an entirely different set of doors has been opened for him, and he feels it’s important to let others experience his life through lyrics. “It’s just a struggle. You gotta make people believe in what you went through in life. You gotta emphasize that and make them feel it, and at the same time make it entertaining.”

With a clear purpose behind his music, Waka is pres- ently working on the double-disc sequel to his debut project. He’s also contributing to the 1017 Brick Squad mixtape, a group which consists of Gucci Mane, OJ da Juiceman, Waka, Wooh the Kid, Frenchie, and more.

“We’re like the new N.W.A,” Waka says. And even while comparing his labelmates to the legendary group, Waka explains why he does so well as a solo artist. “I’m in my own lane, I’m rapping my own way, doin’ my own thang. I guess the shit I say touched so many people that they fuck with me.”

Words by Ms Rivercity Photo by Donna Permell

40 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 41 WORDS BY MAURICE G. GARLAND PHOTOS BY DAVID ROSARIO

42 // OZONE MAG Ace Hood is en route from Indianapolis, Indiana to Atlanta, Georgia, on his way to grace the stage at the annual Birthday Bash concert that is pretty much known as the Summer Jam of the South. Currently passing through Memphis, Ace sounds tired, but refuses to let the cousin of death whisper in his ear. Why should he? Staying awake is what got him discovered by DJ Khaled. Staying awake is what got him signed to Def Jam. Staying awake is what’s blessed him with the opportunity to follow up his debut album, 2008’s Gutta, with his sophomoric effort Ruthless less than a year later. Ozone caught up with fiery Floridian to find out how life has been since he’s gotten some “Cash Flow.”

During your campaign for Gutta you hit the road heavy. What have you Yeah, the video was about grinding. But we didn’t want the video to be a been up to since then? traditional grind, being on the block, shooting dice. We didn’t want to make I’ve just been grinding on this tour, letting people get to know Ace Hood a typical video, I wanted to provide hope. Throwing money isn’t what we as a person. That’s why I took the route I did with this album, to show my needed for this video. So I wanted to show the youth an academic grind, an growth. athletic grind, show them that they can be victorious.

What kind of growth will you be showing on this album? Many new artist This time around there isn’t a big “Florida movement” as your album don’t really get to do all that they want on their debut albums so the drops. Granted, artists like Plies, T-Pain, Rick Ross, etc are still putting out second one is where they get to have a little more control. music, but it seems to be more on an individual basis at this point. What With this album, there’s just a lot more personal records. I got to do a lot of are you anticipating as you come back out in this new climate? records of my strength and not relying on a lot of people. I have features Just more love, man, and a better response. I look forward to people talking but it’s mostly me. me more seriously this time. The first time people didn’t know where I came from or know too much about who I was. As far as the album goes, I have As far as you as an artist, the general consensus so far has been that you a crazy record with Jeremih, it’s a next level “Ride.” I got a lot of hot street rap hard as hell, but don’t say much. records too. I have a song called “Born an OG” with Ludacris on it. I got a That’s what I’m saying. That’s why I portray more of myself with this Ruthless record with The Dream and one with Lloyd. The album goes hard. I’m trying album. Gutta was the introduction. People asked me why I rapped so hard. to show that this ain’t just music, it’s a celebration. When you open the CD, I was so excited to represent my city, my hood, plus I was excited to be on you’ll see where I came from and where I got to. I didn’t build me by being Def Jam, so I was going hard. I’m getting ‘em every time I open my mouth. a nice guy. // Even in my interviews, if Khaled said, “Get ‘em, Ace,” I’m getting ‘em. So this time I wanted to portray my personality more on this album, the type of person I really am. Ruthless will show people why I go as hard as I do.

What kind of person are you really? Because to let photos and videos tell it, the first thing we see is the “We The Best” chain which makes you look flashy by default. Before that situation, I was a low key dude. I still am now. People interview me and be like, “Why don’t we hear anything crazy about you?” I know how to turn it on and off. I’ve always been low key, but when I got the chain, I was like, “Okay, it’s time to get it in. I have to portray [myself as] a star.” But it’s for TV. It’s what people want to see for entertainment. I leave that on the stage though. Outside of that I’m a low key dude.

Had you ever left your town before you started traveling as an artist? I stayed around my parts. If I did leave the city it was only an hour away, if anything. So when I started hitting the road, it was crazy going to other cities and seeing how they do it. Seeing the differ- ences in people. I didn’t know what was going on, it was crazy in the beginning, but they were showing love. I felt like I had more in with people than I had differences. I saw how my music touched people in Chicago and places like that. It’s big. Anytime people love you, it’s big. They’re checking for good music, at the end of the day. It’s big to have that anticipation.

Has the experience of traveling to new cities affected how you make your music nowadays? It just lets me know that people have love for me. People 15, 16 hours outside my city know who I am. So I just take those experi- ences and incorporate it in my music. Staying in tune to the reces- sion situation and stuff like that. So find out what goes on in every city and try to incorporate that into my music.

How do you find that balance between rapping about enjoying the good life but still relating to the fans who aren’t? One thing that keeps me at that level is, I know it ain’t all about the jewelry. I’m trying to let people in the ‘hood know I’m just like them, I want to let them know that we relate. I feed off being able to relate to people instead of flashing jewelry in their face. I’ve been through the poverty just like them.

Your video for “Overtime” has that kind of feel to it in a way. It showed regular people doing regular things like trying out for football and studying to get into college.

OZONE MAG // 43 WORDS BY JULIA BEVERLY PHOTO BY Mike Schreiber

How does this life that you’re living now com- felt like, man, if people I know can get on and The T-Pain hook didn’t hurt either. (laughs) pare to what you envisioned for yourself back become rappers, maybe I could too. I have that Naw, it didn’t. But that was after “.” [The in the day when you were locked down? Did type of hustler mentality and that type of drive. record with] T-Pain wasn’t my first joint. I came you ever see yourself getting to this position? I decided to give it a try and if it didn’t work, I in the game with “Hi Hater,” which was just me I’m a miracle baby, Julia. I’ve dreamed of this. could always fall back on the streets anyway. The on the hook and the verses by myself. No big I’m living a dream. Anytime you can take a dude streets ain’t going nowhere so I felt like I didn’t producer, no nothing. That opened up the doors that spent half his life in prison and make it have anything to lose by trying, you understand? for me so I was able to come back with [features to the position I’m in now, it’s amazing. I don’t and producers from artists like] T-Pain and Swizz wanna take it for granted. I don’t wanna under- When you did make the decision to go the Beatz. I had already made the introduction. As far appreciate it. And to be honest with you, there’s music route, did things happen faster or as the New York movement, I feel like there are no words that can even describe how I really feel. slower than you expected? A lot of people opportunities for everybody to get in the game. You know what I mean? Every day I wake up and start rapping and think they’re going to have It comes down to making good music. To me, feel blessed. I feel like, man, this is unbelievable immediate success and blow up overnight, but as long as you can make some great music, the for me to be here right now. Especially when I it doesn’t always happen that way. more the merrier. I don’t think one man can do think back on the life I was living and think about I guess it’s a combination of both, but for the it on his own, and I never professed to being the where I come from and what I’ve been involved most part I felt like it was kinda quick. I came dude [to bring New York back]. in. So for me to be here and see people react - to back home [from prison] in 2003 and a year and see that I have fans out there and people that are a half later I was signed to a major label. So that Do you think it’s the music, or more the mental- interested in me – it’s bananas. was quick. My career didn’t actually pop off at ity of New York artists? that point [in 2005] but I was signed, so I felt like It’s a little bit of both. It’s the attitude and the In the Hip Hop community, having a prison I was making progress. That was good enough music. It’s the way we think. As long as you think background is almost like a plus – it gives you for me to continue to do it. If there wasn’t any you don’t need a hook in your music, I mean, the credibility. Do you feel like the time you spent progress being made, I would’ve left [the rap people around you have gotta be honest with locked up was necessary in order for you to game] a long time ago. you. I’ma tell you right now, Julia, there’s never get into the position you are now, or get in the gonna be a time you hear a whack Maino record. mindframe where you were able to turn your You were with Universal at the time, right? Why You may not love [a record] as much as you life around? didn’t that situation work out, and how did you loved the one before, but you’ll never be able to Sometimes you have to go through hell to get to end up at Atlantic? say I’m whack. heaven. If I didn’t go to prison I wouldn’t be here Bottom line, I guess [Sylvia Rhone] didn’t think rapping right now because I started rapping I could work [as an artist]. They let me go. They Tell us about your album, If Tomorrow Comes. in jail. I never rapped before that. I never had a dropped me, but I didn’t have a problem being Of course everybody has heard the single “All dream of being a rapper; it never crossed my dropped. I felt like it was her loss. The Above,” but tell us about some of the more mind to even write a rhyme. It was because I was personal cuts you have on the album. in jail and I had time and had nothing to do. I That wasn’t discouraging for you to get Aw, man. My new album is great. Shout out to started to write out of boredom, and then I loved dropped from the label? You didn’t feel like it the people that bought my album. It’s an album to do it. After a while I decided I wanted to come was a setback? about my life. I just told my story from beginning out and take it seriously. So, me being here is a Nah, not at all. At that point, that was the best to end. I came out of prison with a plan, I went direct result of going to jail. thing that could’ve happened to me. Gene through the trials and tribulations of just trying Nelson, who I had already became close with to exist. I was a street nigga trying to be a rapper, What do you think you’d be doing if you hadn’t throughout the whole Kim era, had just been you understand? That was very hard making that gone to jail? [appointed to] an executive A&R position [at transition. That was probably the hardest thing I’m afraid of that thought. Atlantic]. I wanted to be around people who I in the world for me to do. I got a joint on there knew cared about me. I wasn’t getting that type called “Remember My Name.” From the feedback It probably would’ve been a worse scenario? of attention at Universal, so when I heard they I’m getting, that’s a favorite. A lot of people like Oh, definitely. I come from that mentality of were potentially considering dropping me, I was “Runaway Slave.” I don’t do it for me, you know? people who feel like they’re going to be in the like, “Aight. Let’s get it poppin’. I do it for the people, so I [judge] the records streets for the rest of their lives. There’s no real off the feedback. I go back to the lab with that difference between me and the dudes you see in Around the time you were first buzzing there feedback, and so far, it’s been great. the streets that are hustling and getting money were a lot of expectations placed on artists like in and out of jail. It’s just that when I did go to yourself, Papoose, and Saigon, as far as being Were you happy with your first week numbers? jail I had a revelation. I don’t even know [how]; it “the one” to bring New York back. From what I’ll tell you what: I couldn’t do much with 45,000 had to be divine for me to be here. You have to we’ve seen so far, it hasn’t really happened like [copies] in stores, you feel me? understand, when I was in jail I always thought that. Do you look at yourself as having moreso I was gonna go home and do the same thing I an individual movement, or do you feel like What are you saying, the label didn’t ship as had been doing. It didn’t matter if they locked the New York movement is still coming behind many copies as they were supposed to? me up for ten years or twenty years, I was gonna you? I’m not gonna say who did what and who didn’t go home and continue doing what I had been We’ve got to be honest. Those things you’re do nothing, because at the end of the day it is doing. I wasn’t learning anything in prison. I was saying, I’ma have to agree with you. There was a what it is. I’m a miracle baby regardless of my just there, you know? time when those individuals were named, and first week numbers. I was an inmate just a couple let’s not act like their time is still here. You know years ago. I didn’t have fans, I had [correctional What made you ultimately decide to go a more what I mean? When it came time to put out hit officers] telling me what to do and looking in the positive route? records and all that, I feel like I was the only one crack of my ass. I’m just giving you the raw facts. After seeing what Biggie had done and what able to make that transition. And that’s not me I’m not pointing the blame at nobody. I’m just [Lil] Kim had done, I felt like I was close to it. I taking shots at anybody. letting you know that I couldn’t do much [sales-

44 // OZONE MAG wise] with 45,000 [units] in the stores nationally.

Obviously the industry has changed and no- body’s really doing the numbers that they’d like to be doing. I guess the emphasis is more on the digital sales? Let’s not act like we don’t wanna sell records. We do. But at the same time, look at the odds of even getting to this point. It’s hard enough just to get to a position to get signed and to actual- ly come out with an album. So my whole thing is, whether I sell one copy or one million copies, WORDS BY JULIA BEVERLY it’s all good with me. I sold around 25,000- PHOTO BY Mike Schreiber 30,000 copies, so that’s 25,000-30,000 people that I know love me, you understand? So I’m gonna hit them again. And let’s not forget that my single is almost platinum [in digital sales] so I’m still gonna bring home a platinum plaque for New York. I don’t want to get caught up in [sales numbers] because that’s not something I can control. My job is to make the best music that I can, and I think I’ve done that. Sometimes we don’t get everything that we wanna get, but as long as we live to fight another day, the war ain’t over.

There were some people taking shots at T-Pain and claiming that he supposedly stole the beat and concept for your single “All The Above” from them. That situation got cleared up. T-Pain didn’t even write that track, so the beef could never be with T-Pain. I cleared up that situation though. I talked to the dude [that was claiming it was sto- len] and T-Pain didn’t steal that track. It would be impossible for T-Pain to have stolen some- thing he didn’t even make. We brought the track to T-Pain, he didn’t bring it to me. Shout out to and Nard & B for putting the track together. It was just a misunderstanding. I don’t know if it was a coincidence [that the records sounded similar] or what, but I know the record wasn’t stolen. I watched the record being created right in front of me, so it would be impossible. I don’t know, some people just have agendas. I don’t wanna get caught up with what people are saying. As long as they’re talking, it’s cool with me.

Was there one situation specifically that inspired you to write “Hi Hater” or was it just a general message to the haters? Naw, it’s in general. It’s for everybody. Every- body feels like they’ve got haters, so I thought I’d give them an anthem. It wasn’t a direct situation with me, it was just an anthem for the haters, whether you’re white or black or tall or short or fat or skinny. Everybody can relate to it, and that’s what I gave them. That’s how I try to make my music, so that people can relate to it. You know what I mean? That’s how I try to do it.

So what exactly is the deal with you and Lil Kim? You’ve mentioned her a few times. Is that a romantic thing or are y’all homies, busi- ness partners? Kim is a very close person in my life but it’s never been romantic though. It’s not really busi- ness either. We’re family, and we still are. Is she on your album?

You didn’t listen to my record, did you, Julia? Naw, I didn’t. I confess. I’ll have to go buy it in stores. I’ll support. Yeah, you should, and then you would’ve had a better respect for an interview with me. You would’ve liked Maino a little bit more. When you listen to it, you need to call me back and tell me what you think. //

OZONE MAG // 45 very emotional experience to me. The whole country of Africa is an important place to visit and do shows.

It’s been over three years since Sean your very first album? What was it about Rwanda that was emotional Paul produced a full length album The first album I had was Stage One in 2000. for you? for his fans. Since then, the dance- About 15 years ago they had a massacre over hall phenomenon has been some- So that was nine years ago. Do you still enjoy there, genocide. My country at that time, in 1994, what quiet, especially considering making music as much today as you did nine was a violent country, but not as violent as it is years ago? his pREVIOUS domination of U.S. today. Sometimes it makes me feel a bit anxious I definitely enjoy making music. I also enjoy for my own country. When I went to Rwanda to entertainment. Earlier this year the performing it. There’s a lot of things I had to get perform, I saw the people back together again Grammy-winning artist introduced used to enjoying, like going around and doing a and they said, “We couldn’t do this 12 years ago. the single “So Fine” from his fourth lot of meet and greets. But I do enjoy it; I enjoy We couldn’t have a concert like this ‘cause we project, Imperial Blaze, an album meeting new people and everyting. were all fighting each other.” Sean Paul feels is slightly more mature, but still geared toward the You’re a huge Jamaican artist in the U.S., but Do you see that happening in your country? party crowd. During the album’s you’re also big in other countries and conti- It’s so similar to what’s happening in my country promo tour, the Jamaican spokes- nents. How does that feel to be able to touch right now. After that performance I cried. I came such a wide range of people? man makes a stop in the south to off stage and tears was comin’ down. I kept It’s an amazing feeling to be able to have a thinking to myself, is this how Jamaica has to get talk about where he’s been, what thought on your mind, even if it’s just to shake before we realize we need to chill out? I always he’s seen, and how it’s affected him your ass, and people hear it and acknowledge tell people about that, and it was a very out- not only as a musician, but also as it and get wit’ it. It’s a beautiful feeling. It’s kinda standing performance for me. [The Rwandans] a humanitarian. what I wanted to do in the beginning, it’s why I took 800,000 lives of their own people in three got into spittin’ rhymes and being the DJ that I months. Now 15 years later they’re together Tell us about the new album. Everybody is am. I had a few things to say, and instead of just again. 800,000 lives coulda been saved, it coulda wondering why it’s taken you so long to give telling one person here and there, I could go on gone down different. That show gave me an your fans new material. to tell every woman, “Yo, you the hottest, you the overwhelming vibe. The album has been done since about January best.” For real. ’09. I’ve basically been sitting back waiting. I took That’s a powerful story. Are you on the road three years to finish it off. Everybody’s like, “Yo, So you tell every woman that, or is there one touring right now? when’s it gon’ come out?” So I was just as much particular one? Are you single? Yeah, I’m on a promotional tour for the album, anxious as my fans were. It was finished in Janu- Um, at the moment, that’s still my own personal letting people know I’m back out publicly. I’ve ary, but I was told it’s a summer record so I had business. been doing records back home in Jamaica, but to wait. I was setting stuff up and now we’re here nothing to present as an album to the world. doing the promotion. How do you deal with strangers always in your Some of it’s out on the internet, but I wanted to personal business? Does it make you uncom- let people know my album is out now. About Who can we expect to hear on the album? Do fortable or are you used to it by now? the end of May I started going to different ter- you have any special guest features? Yeah, when ladies are in my personal business I ritories – the whole East Coast, I went to France I don’t have no collaborations on my album. feed them bananas, and when dudes try to get and England. I came back to the West Coast and A lot of people ask me, “Who you got on your in my personal business I tell them mañanas. You did a lot of those territories, and now I’m here in album?” And it’s like, “Me, it’s my album.” I did a know what I mean? the South. In September when the promotional lot of songs this time around, like near 60 songs, tour is done I’ll get a chance to look into touring. so I just wanted people to hear most of it. I think Back to your overseas audience, what are some People can go to AllSeanPaul.com. I think I want about 20 songs are on the album. places that really had an impact on you? Were to tour in November and December. there some countries that just really touched What types of songs are they? you? How’s your single “So Fine” doing? Is it living It’s a party-oriented album. It also gets a little Tahiti was an amazing place to go to. People up to your expectations? bit mature. I’m speaking about relationships. I always ask me where I like to vacation, and I Oh, fa sho. It’s putting smiles on ladies’ faces, have a song dedicated to my mom. People might always say Jamaica ‘cause it’s the most beautiful I’m bouncing people around, you know what I say, “You did a song to your mommy? You’re a place I know. I still live there. Every time I have mean? I’m glad for that. Unfortunately, Michael mommy’s boy?” But really, all of us are. I think time off I’m like, “Take me back home to Jamaica.” Jackson died, and it kinda took over our whole that’s a more mature way of looking at it for I go to a place called Portland, a very beautiful consciousness. Twitter and YouTube went crazy, myself. For that reason alone the album is a little place. But when I went to Tahiti, I was like, wow and it’s still going crazy. Big up to him and his bit more mature. this is amazing. And plus it’s a very underdevel- family and fans. I wish him peace. He’s a great oped country. There’s not much infrastructure, entity in music – style, music, performances, How many years has it been since you released it’s very natural. I loved it. Also, Rwanda was a music videos. He’s innovative. MJ, rest in peace. //

46 // OZONE MAG

OZONE MAG // 47 Fitted Jeans Over Skirts 8 I wear jeans over skirts because it’s more secure, in case the wind blows by. (laughs) I wear skirts [too] but I wear jeans way more than I wear skirts. – Gunna

Playing Video Games 7 I love video games, and I play video games as an art. I’m a competitor. – Gunna

Walkin’ Outside with Socks On 6 My grandma always tells me, “Girl, put some shoes on your feet when you go outside. The bottoms of your socks are always gon’ be black.” I’m so used to walking outside with my socks on, walkin’ to the mailbox, it’s just a habit. – Gunna

Fightin’ in the Club 5 We don’t do that. That’s the old Unladylike. If somebody’s fighting around us, we might get a punch in, but ain’t nobody gon’ know ‘cause we gotta keep it professional and ladylike. – Tee

No Acrylic Manicures 4 We get our nails done, but not those fake nails. We keep it natural. – Gunna

Profanity 3 That’s self-explanatory. – Gunna & Tee Tennis Shoes Over Heels Sitting Unladylike We’re ladies, but we’d rather keep it funky when we perform. We do 2 Sometimes we cross our legs, sometimes we don’t. – Tee 10 tennis shoes, the [Air] Forces, but we still keep it sexy at the same time. – Tee Gettin’ “Scummy Dummy” Dawg 1 Gettin’ tipsy, gettin’ drunk, gettin’ scummy dummy, gettin’ Book Bag Purses Over Regular Purses messed up. We use the phrase “scummy dummy” on our first 9 Book bag purses fit the whole Unladylike style. We’re more like the single “Bartender.” That’s how we talk. – Gunna & Tee T.L.C. and Aaliyah style. It’s tomboy-ish, but at the same time we definitely keep it sexy. And you can put a lot of stuff in a book bag purse. – Tee As told to Ms. Rivercity

48 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 49 Angel Lola Luv doesn’t care what you say about her—just as long as you don’t call her fake. Though the Washington, DC resident with the Wonder Woman proportions won’t tell you whether or not everything on the outside of her is real, she’s certainly adamant that every- thing on the inside is 100% authentic.

“I was out on my own at the age of 15,” says Angel. “And from that point on, it was the hood that embraced me. When I was com- ing up and had to support myself, it was the hood was there for me. So I’m not try- ing to just claim that I’m hood, I really am.”

While her exterior may not scream “hood,” her hustler’s mentality certainly does. Throughout her two year career as perhaps the number one video chick in the game, Angel has definitely been aggressive and knows exactly how to attract attention. She’s had rumored relationships with every- body from Young Jeezy to Trey Songz, been accused of augmenting her ample apple (her measurements are an almost unnatural 36D-22-40!), and has changed names more times than . But through it all, Lola Luv has stayed relevant.

Now known as Lola Monroe, the Ethiopian/ Trinidadian temptation is bringing it to the booth. Though she began rapping only recently, the 22-year-old has been writing poetry for years, and has already surprised many critics with her above-average flow.

True to Angel Lola Luv Monroe fashion, the drama still follows, even in rap. Within the last few months, Miss Monroe has developed suspected beef with both Nicky Minaj and Karrine Steffans (more notably with the latter, whom she accused of giving video vixens a bad name), but regardless of whatever controversy she creates, the former model remains content. She enjoys the fact that so much attention is being focused on her and her debut mixtape Boss Bitches World. It’s good for business.

As she preps the release of second mixtape, Lola Monroe is determined to succeed in rap. She hopes to one day become just as iconic as Marilyn—her inspiration and namesake, and at the rate she’s headed now, she just may.

50 // OZONE MAG I have to admit, when I first heard that you were going to become a rap- second mixtape right now. For the first mixtape, I was addressing the critics, per, I was a little skeptical. But after hearing you spit, I was impressed. the haters, and just basically talkin’ my shit. On the second mixtape, it’s way How long have you been rapping? more original beats and I’m just ready to talk more about my life and where Well, thank you so much. I definitely appreciate the love and all the sup- I came from and my story. port. I actually started rapping last year, but I’ve been writing since I was I read that you got kicked out of the house at age 15 for losing your like 12 years old. I used to write poems, and when I hit the age of 14 or 15, virginity. Is that true, and if so, how’d you get caught? I used music as my escape. I was going through so many different things in Actually, that whole thing was put out the wrong way. I didn’t get put out my life at that point, whether it was love or family issues. I’ve always been for losing my virginity. Coming up, I had a lot of issues at home, and I was doing music, but I just officially started rapping last year. going through a whole lot at home. I had to constantly move to and from different relatives’ homes and at the time, I was staying with my aunt. My What convinced you to start rapping? Were you bored with modeling? aunt found out I had lost my virginity, but I lost my virginity to my first Actually, modeling for different publications and in videos was a job. It was boyfriend, my first love, my first everything, someone I really, really loved. something for me to get more exposure and get my foot in the door. Music I had to leave [my aunt’s] house because of it and go back to my mother’s is in my heart. Music is what I wanted to do. I look at music as a career, not a house, but I never got put out for losing my virginity. Around that time, job, and it’s not that I got tired of the whole modeling thing, but it was just there was just so much going in around my family, and the fact they really that time to transition. didn’t accept me dealing with a guy I fell in love with, I decided to leave my home and move out. But I never got put out. You have such a pretty exterior, but your personality seems a little less delicate. Where did that tough mentality come from, DC? Okay, well I’m glad you got that cleared up. And I’m not trying to dwell Definitely DC. I came up in the hood and the hood has always been there on negativity, but let’s talk about . The industry has so few for me, that’s why in my music, I speak so much about the hood. It’s love in successful female rappers, and now the two with arguably the biggest the hood, and the love there is not based on money or none of that stuff. buzzes have beef. What’s up with that? My whole persona and aura comes from that environment. Actually, that whole Nicki Minaj thing was really blown out of proportion. They recorded me while I was being asked about her in my “Lip Service” You once said in an interview that you compare yourself to dudes, not interview, and the way they put the video out they titled it, “Lola Monroe females, and that you don’t idolize Beyonce; you idolize Jay-Z. If that’s beefing with Nicki Minaj.” But the whole situation isn’t that serious, it was true, your aura is definitely authentic. blown out of proportion; it ain’t no beef. Where I come from beef is taken Yeah, that’s funny, and when I made that statement I was infatuated with very, very seriously, so if it was beef, niggas would know. Beyonce, but I respected Jay-Z’s movement more. Coming up, I never compared myself to other females, and I’ve always competed with dudes. DC has never really had a mainstream, breakout rapper. Now you’re Even with whips, like my first car was a ’96 Chevy Caprice, and I wanted emerging and it’s possible that the first commercial rapper from DC a bubble because all the boys drove bubbles. I wanted a bubble and I might be a female. Do you think that will make it harder for upcoming wanted to paint it pink and put the 23”s on it—back then, niggas was still male rappers from DC? on 22”s. I wanted to do it bigger; I thought about 24”s, but I had to still keep My city has a whole lot of talent. Wale is another artist from my city who is it feminine. So whenever I compare myself to someone, it’s usually a male doing his thing. As far as me being a female, I’m gonna hold down my city in a position of power, because that’s what I’m striving for. regardless, but there’s a lot of talent in my city. Different artists like Wale, Tabi Bonney, Raheem DeVaughn—there’s a lot of talent in DC. My whole Are men more intimidated by the way you look or the way you act? goal is to be the female voice, the female representation for DC and I think I really don’t know, but I’m sure they are intimated by how I compete some- it’s our time now. There was a time for the South, there was a time for New times. I know it happens because I do compete, but I don’t compete in an York, there was a time for the West side, and now it’s time for DC. aggressive manner to the point where niggas just can’t stand to be around me. It’s more of a mentality thing, but it’s not excessive. I can actually be What do you do during your downtime away from the music industry? around, relate to, and have better conversations with dudes than I can with Baby, I’m working 24/7. I don’t have time to do anything else at all. This oc- most females. But of course the intimidation happens, even in the music cupies so much of my time that there’s nothing else that I do, and I’m being business. so honest right now.

Do you think people take you less seriously as a rapper because you’re There’s been so much speculation about certain asspects of your phy- known as a model and sex symbol? sique not being real. Do all these repeated allegations bother you, or are People are skeptical at first. Being that I did come into the game from the you just glad to keep everybody talking? modeling aspect people are like, “Oh, she’s rapping? I don’t know about Like I’ve always said, it helps get my numbers up and I don’t mind at all. If that.” They’re so used to seeing the sexy layouts and the softness in the pic- you pick my Boss Bitches World mixtape I’m actually speaking on it myself. tures that people don’t think I have anything to rap about. But they don’t So none of the things people say fazes me whatsoever. know where I came from, and they never heard me speak, and don’t know my story, so one of the obstacles that I’ve faced is people not believing. I know you’re a rapper now, but would you ever get back in the video modeling scene for the right amount of money? Has that skepticism hindered you from being able to work with some of Naw, I’m done with videos unless it’s a cameo for one of my homies. the top notch producers or mainstream artists? Yeah, definitely. It’s hard sometimes, but at the same time I do have people If Hugh Hefner offered you some ridiculous amount to pose nude would in the industry who believe in me, and then I have those that don’t fuck you do it? with me. All that is part of the game, but I’m gon’ let you know that I’m gon- [laughs] Only if I’m keeping my bottoms on. na let me work speak for me. When I first started out, I had so many people that didn’t believe. Once I put out this mixtape and they saw that I’m really That’s no fun. You wouldn’t do it even for a million dollars? serious, now more and more people are starting to support. The more I Naw, definitely not. keep working and putting out good music, it’s gonna keep increasing. When you accomplish your goals in music do you plan to pivot into How would describe your sound to someone who has never even heard movies? you speak, let alone rap? Music is my 100% focus, and that’s what I want to do. But I’m definitely I have my own sound. I’m not really South, but I’m not up North. I have into doing movies. I actually have a film that I just did with 50, Before I Self DC swag to my music. My music is something females can [relate to]; it Destruct, and then the other film with Wendy Williams, her life story. And represents female empowerment. That’s why I called my mixtape Boss I’m also working on Crazy Like A Fox. Bitches World. Everything I’m doing music-wise is a movement to me, and I represent the boss bitches. Aside from representing females, I represent the What advice would you give aspiring female emcees about the industry? streets and the struggle. You gotta push harder than these niggas. You gotta go harder than these niggas because it’s way harder for a female to be taken seriously. // Who are you working with and what kind of projects are you currently involved with? Words by Eric Perrin I dropped my Boss Bitches World mixtape and I’m currently working on my

OZONE MAG // 51 52 // OZONE MAG Industry 101 Devyne StePHens

While many people strive to be in front of the camera, Devyne Stephens makes a living making OTHER people look good for the cameras. Grooming himself as the “Berry Gordy of this generation,” Stephens has had a hand in the success of almost every popular artist you can name over the last 10 years.

Born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Devyne was introduced to the city’s music and lifestyle scene at a young age. He forming his own dance crew, Fresh Dance Crew, at age 15 with neighbor Jer- maine Dupri. Eventually Stephens added rapping to the repertoire and soon found himself as the first act signed to LaFace Records. But eventu- the past. I’m just curious, what was it like do- stay very localized, which is tempting because ally, Stephens shifted his vision from wanting to ing that back then as opposed to now, where a lot comes out of Atlanta. You already have an be a star, to making them. Taking a job in artist artists try to present themselves as a package impressive roster of people that you’ve worked development for LaFace, Stephens groomed without much development to be done? with from all over the place. names like Usher, Babyface, Toni Braxton and That’s the difference in the stage power My take off was with LA and Babyface and the Outkast into the stars they are today. He then nowadays. A lot of artists now are more like way they played the game. That push and that aligned himself with Sean “Puff Daddy” Combs cookie-cutter, with one single in and out, not boost is what introduced me to a lot of key and began working with his roster of Bad Boy fully developed. A lot of times when you have an people in the music business. artists as well as choreographing tours for the [undeveloped] artist, the life span of that talent lies of Diddy, Jay Z, Mary J Blige, , is very short. What made you put your career as an artist and Pink. aside to get more involved behind the scenes? What inspired you to start Upfront, and what I was always most intrigued by the business Now, after a decade of putting in work, Stephens exactly do you guys do? aspect of it. Creatively, I knew how to produce, is building his own empire, Upfront Megatain- Upfront is an artist development company re- perform and write records, but I felt like at the ment. It includes his , distributed cord label. Berry Gordy, and the whole time South music wasn’t really being brought by Universal Music; The Complex, a state of the story, inspired me. Motown was an artist devel- to the forefront. At the time the music was a art incubation facility for artists and athletes, opment company as well. That’s really how I got little bit ahead of its time. I already had Lil Jon including a top of the line rehearsal studio, Glam my motivation; from him. producing my music. I had Luda and T.I. working Squad wing, photo studio, nutrition and fitness on records with me, and this was before they wing, media training, choreography studio and Lets say I was an artist and I want to hire you, were even established. It was a little bit ahead of more; Dreamland, an 18,000 square foot man- would you help me out? Or do I have to be its time. sion on 19-acres outside of Atlanta, a hotspot signed to a label or your label to take advan- for ATL’s most exclusive and upscale events; and tage of this? Right now who are some of the people that much more. No, we’re always looking for new talent and find- you and your company are working with? ing new talent, so if you walk in up off the street Currently we have a girl trio group by the name Hoping to bring back a time when artists were and you’ve got what it takes well definitely yes. of Crave, they’re based out of Atlanta. We also actually developed instead of thrown to the Some labels have an artist that’s already signed have Rock City, from the Virgin Islands. We have wolves, Stephens hopes his old-school mentality and we put them through a 30-day or 60-day Magic Massey, an R&B soul singer out of Chicago, can work in a new-school industry. program. So we assist other labels with develop- and Bow Boa, a rapper out of Raleigh, NC. ing their talent as well. How did you get introduced to ? Interesting you mention Rock City. Some artists Devyne: I started in the music business as a And you’ve been through that process as an are very talented, have all the connections, artist, not as a dancer. I was signed to LaFace as artist yourself. What are some of the things you and are known in the industry, but the average Devyne and 90MPH. We showcased with Pebbles think that your company is doing that some Joe that buys CDs from Best Buy may not even and then she took us to L.A. and Babyface. The other companies are not doing? know of them. How do you try to prevent that group actually got dropped, but L.A. kept me Like you said, artist development has become a from happening with some of the people you onboard helping to develop some of his talent. I thing of the past. What we’re trying to do is build work with? worked with TLC, Usher, Outkast, Pink, Toni Brax- artists that will have longevity. Say Akon, for It’s like Akon. It took a minute for Akon to get ton, Tony Rich, and Donnell Jones [at LaFace], instance. He’s a complete package because he into the marketplace because he was very among others. writes, he produces and he performs. Same with unique, and when there’s something different T-Pain; he writes, he produces, and he performs. and unique about [the artist], it takes a minute What role did you play in developing these Jazze Pha he possesses the same capabilities. for people to actually get it. I try to find things artists? You have to be grounded in today’s market to be that are unique and try to develop those things In terms of the imagery, the stage presence, the able to sustain in this business. and bring those to the forefront to make a big- choreography, doing some television shows, vid- ger impact in the marketplace once people do eos. The complete artist development process. How were you able to build your company get it. Like a Kanye West, for instance. When it’s to such a strong brand? A lot of times, when something different , it makes a huge impact Artist development seems to be like a thing of somebody starts a company in Atlanta they once it finally breaks. //

OZONE MAG // 53 We did the OZONE cover shoot at your club in Las Vegas. Tell us about how you got involved me was my own projects. We had number one with the nightclub business. Do you think anybody has ever found real records; we just went triple platinum digitally I became one of the partners of [Poetry Night- love on a reality show, or is it usually just for with “” and that was big independent- club] a few months ago. I just wanted to bring entertainment purposes? ly. Niggas aren’t doing [those numbers] right a multi-cultural crowd to this Hip Hop culture Nah, people find true love. People find true love now independently or even [on a major label] so we’ve got over here. I wanted to enhance the at the club. (laughs) Put it like this: if you can find I’m happy about that. I’m about to put out Shorty and get more people to come out love at the club, then you can definitely find it Mack’s album The Purp Man for all my cannabis and buy a lot of bottles and tables and get a lot on a reality show. smokers out there that love to just put it in the of VIP service. I think we’ve done that. I think air and vibe out and talk about the high times of we’ve increased it 50% from what it was before. How long is the time period that you’re actu- life. That’s what Shorty Mack is speaking on. It’s We’re trying to keep it going and keep it being ally filming the show? very good. I think it’s going to be very, very hot. successful. We just keep putting out good proj- A month and a half. ects and staying on top of our game. Tell us about the group you’re working with So you think it’s possible to fall in love in a out of Vegas called the Enfamous Burnaz. Is it your aspiration to be an all-around busi- month and a half? They’re straight out of Las Vegas. I own the nessman? You’ve got the club and the record Nah, but I think you can get great interest in club out here called Poetry so they’re out here label; what other projects are you working on? somebody in a month and a half and really see representing with me. They’ve got a song called I’ve been independent since “One Wish,” so it’s what they’re all about and spark up something “Top Notch Chick” that’s already surfacing on the destiny for me to do what I gotta do to be my that may not have been there before. I think radio and getting a lot of requests. When The own boss. With the money I make, I don’t just that’s definitely possible. Enfamous Burnaz came to me with this song and trick it off and buy chains and shit. I buy clubs, the whole concept, I just fell in love with what invest in real estate, and try to put money up for You mentioned that you have a second reality they were talking about. I really felt like we could new developments. That’s what I try to do but a show coming out on BET that will be airing make a connection and do some good music lot of people don’t know that about me. I’m re- around the same time as your VH1 For The together. ally not trying to showcase what I do. I just want Love of Ray J show? Tell us about that. to keep being true to myself. Yeah, I’m working with BET on some stuff, but What does the rest of 2009 hold for Ray J? I’m really loyal to VH1. They’ve got my back and I’m just building my empire. I’m working on What happened with the reality show? they’re paying me a hell of a lot of money, and some new stuff with some major labels right I found a good girl, she’s cool, but as far as us be- I love them for that. I’m going to stay loyal over now. I’ve got a major machine behind me right ing one on one and being faithful to each other, there [at VH1] but I’ve got some development now – VH1 is backing the hell out of me. Season I felt like that was shaky. So I needed to go back deals going on with BET and a couple other 2 of is in the works. I’ve got in again with season two and see what else is out networks as well. I’m looking forward to that. ABC radio on board right now for Ray J’s Bach- there for young Ray J. I’m just trying to tackle television right now elor Pad. It’s gonna be syndicated on 85 to 100 and build my portfolio as a producer, executive stations starting out. It’s like slow jams and shit. The relationship was shaky for you or her? producer, and creator. I’m just working, stacking my paper, and saving It was shaky for both of us. When you’re in a and investing at the same time. relationship you want it to be 100%. You don’t What’s the theme of the first show you’re put- want to have those weird kinda side relation- ting together for BET? Is there going to be a Ray J and Tila Tequila sex ships going on. That’s just dirty as hell, and I ain’t I can’t say because the deal isn’t inked yet. I’m tape? with that. still speaking too early. But the reason I said that Ray J and Tila Tequila sex tape? I doubt it. Nah. I is because BET already gave me two or three ain’t doing no more sex tapes. So are you saying she was cheating on you? Or jobs. I have my own show on BET.com and I’ve you were cheating on her? hosted 106th & Park for months, so I feel like I heard that she emailed you a picture of a posi- I’m trying to be a one-woman man, and faithful I’m still in the family. We’ve got some stuff we’re tive pregnancy test. as fuck. It wasn’t that [one of us was cheating on working on over there but again, VH1 is my Yeah, she did. It seems like I can’t shake a girl’s the other], it’s just that we weren’t 100% with home. VH1 is where it’s at. hand without them getting pregnant. each other. I felt like we were hella good friends, Is that what you did…shake her hand? and we’re still hella cool. I love the shit outta Tell us about the artists you have signed to I did a little bit more than that, but I feel like a Cocktail. She hella cool. I fucks with her. But as far your label, Knock Out Entertainment. nigga can’t sneeze without a girl getting preg- as us just being one on one and being together Again, I’ve been independent ever since “One nant right now so I’ve just gotta lay low. I told forever, that was shaky. Wish,” so everything y’all have been seeing from you I’m a one-woman man right now. I only want one special girl in my life. All the rest of the girls can kick rocks.

54 // OZONE MAG Who’s the special girl? t-shirts are selling out already. We already sold That’s a dealbreaker if my girlfriend smashed I can’t say. She’s out there though. Please believe over 75,000 shirts at $20 a pop. Y’all niggas do the homies. If she smashed the homies before I me. the math. And we’re still grinding. You can buy knew her, still, it’s like, damn. I need a girl that’s them at grimyink.com. one hundred with me; that’s complete. I don’t She needs to go to RayJCasting.com? want all my friends around me knowing how the She can go to rayjcasting.com, but that’s just for Danger wasn’t too happy about the t-shirts. pussy felt. Sorry for being so vulgar. all the other people that want a shot at it. Is that She said she felt like you were making money a legitimate casting website from VH1? off of her name. Is there anything else you want to add? It didn’t say “Monica Smashed the Homies.” It Nah, everything is perfect. I just want to keep (laughs) I thought you would know. says “Danger Smashed the Homies.” I created that putting out good music. I want to keep being an I don’t know. I got to check into that. You know, name [Danger]. She had her own style so I just entrepreneur. I’m a boss. I’m not Rick Ross but some niggas been charging girls $50 to come put a little twist to it and brought her into the I’m a boss, please believe it. I’m running my own audition [for my reality show] and niggas don’t limelight. I put the spotlight on her. I feel like she shit and I’m not taking orders from anybody. even know me. Sometimes niggas are just hus- should let me enjoy my hustle, and I’m letting I’m making a lot of money right now and I want tling and shit. I don’t appreciate that. her enjoy my hustle. Ain’t no love lost, baby girl. to continue to make a lot of money by staying Call me. humble and true to God and true to what I do. The new season begins filming in August? Shit, I’m making so much muthafuckin’ money Yeah, it’s going to be a real good look. I’m real If you found out that your girlfriend smashed I’m giving money away. Just ask Julia Beverly. // excited about it. “Danger Smashed the Homies” the homie, is that a dealbreaker?

OZONE MAG // 55 56 // OZONE MAG What’s your history with Knock Out Entertain- ment? You and Ray J grew up together, right? Well, actually I made up Knock Out. We used to Clearly, an album called The Purp Man is full of be called The Committee. We went to the studio smoker’s anthems, right? one day and decided that it just didn’t make It’s all about marijuana, for real. That’s why I’m sense for us to be KO and the Committee. So, I The Purp Man. It’s all about legalizing it too. said, “Watch out for the knock out to knock your There’s a big movement going on right now. block out,” and Ray said, “You know what? That’s Even Obama, I heard he’s about to go ‘head and what we’re gonna roll with. Knock Out.” He had make it legal too, so that’s a good look. I got shot the money and I had the ideas, and we made when I was 18 so I need to smoke weed. I’m not it happen. God is great. That was back in 1996, just smoking this shit [to get high]. I’m smoking around the time my first album came out. my shit legit. I’m walking into the store and get- ting receipts. I’m showing the world that there’s Would you say it has a West Coast sound to it? You’re from L.A., right? a way you can go about doing this where you Nah, I’ve got some down South beats and some Nah, I’m from Sacramento. I live in the Valley can smoke legit and you ain’t got to go to jail. East Coast beats. I don’t really have any West now. In the 818 where life is great, ya dig? So, it’s a message. It’s a lot different from back in Coast beats. The only thing [on my album] that’s the day. I showed you my [medical marijuana] from the West Coast is me. That’s what I think So do you bring more of the creative aspect paperwork. I’m legit. I even told my grandma we’ve been missing on the West Coast; a differ- or the business aspect to the Knock Out family? before she passed away, “I can smoke legit now.” ent type of sound. It’s a different sound, a differ- I’m the VP of Knock Out and he’s the CEO. We cre- ent style. It’s like fashion. You’ve got to roll with ated this together. It was just a dream, and now What’s the name of your single? the times of you’re gonna look like old times. it’s happening. God is great. We’re two adults The Purp Man, of course. I’m going to get that living out our dream. I get to continue to work purp movement out there. The whole purple What about features on the album? Of course with the same nigga I’ve been seeing for the past movement. Everything purple. I’m from the West Ray J is featured; who else? two decades, basically since we were 13 years Coast and I’m talking about purple kush; I’m Truth from Knock Out. We just kept it KO. It’s me, old. We didn’t go to school, we both had home legally walking in the store buying weed. I’ve Ray J, and Truth. We don’t need no help. Truth study. So every day we were just doing music, got High Times and a whole bigger movement was on the song “Sexy Ladies” with me. He raps having fun, and building a relationship. When than what was going on before, because my the first verse and I rap the second verse. you get this high into the game, you can’t just movement is about legalizing weed. On the let no salty business get in the way through no West we’re just trying to legalize that purp. We What about production? sideways moves. want everybody smoking. If we’re all high, I don’t We’ve got J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League and other than think any of us would be complaining. Plus, I that, it’s all Knock Out, KO. We’re keeping it You have your debut solo album coming out heard if they do legalize weed within a year’s in-house. We don’t really want to work with any- this year, right? time, we would probably be out of our debt body right now, we want them to work with us. Yeah, [my first album] since I’ve been an adult. because marijuana is one of the most lucrative When you come in the game and you tell people It’s called The Purp Man. God is great. I should be [products] in America. you don’t need any help then people want to dropping the single in two months and the al- help, but when you’re reaching out, nobody bum in three or four months. We’re going to put How would you describe the sound of your wants to help. it out ourselves through Knock Out until we get album? a strong steady demand going, kind of like your It’s real strong. It’s hardcore. There’s no bubble Is there anything else you want to say? boy Drake. We’re just gonna do it ourselves. The gum music at all. It’s on some Biggie and Pac Pick up that Purp Man album. It’s refreshing. music is so hot the people are gonna request type shit, you know? It’s amazing. It’s a refresh- When you grab it, grab something to roll up. If it. They want to hear something fresh and new. ing sound. you don’t, get some herbal tea and drink that. It’s They want to hear The Purp Man, so I’m gonna refreshing. It’s for the streets; remember that. // give them what they want.

OZONE MAG // 57 Where are you guys from? J Sha: I was born in Long Beach, California, and [my partner J Smilez] was born in Compton. I moved out here [to Vegas] in 1996 and pretty much started my career out here.

There isn’t too much of a local rap scene in Vegas, is there? J Sha: Nah, we’re some of the first that are trying to do it. We’ve got an underground scene out here but there are a couple of us that are finally breaking through the mainstream.

How would you describe your style? Does your music have a West Coast feel to it? J Sha: Our music is a mixture of sounds. We come from California and are based in Vegas, so of course it’s West Coast music. But it’s more of a mixture of Southern bounce, Hip Hop, R&B, and everything. We don’t try to put ourselves in a box, we just do good music. the streets. When you get put in that situation You do some of the production too, right? you start looking at life totally differently, as far J Sha: Yeah, I write and do beats. I produced with as what you want to do and what choices you Tony Touch; I’ve written stuff for everybody. want to make when you get it. God blessed him with the gift of doing music. He always had it in How did you two link up and decide to form a him, but he was like, “Yo, I’m gonna do it for real.” group? When he got out we met up again, and we’ve J Sha: It all started with Chris Buck. My uncle been doing music for over five years now with G-Money was down with Tupac. He influenced the help of Chris Buck. Shout out to Danny Boy me to really get into what I’m doing now. We and a few different people we have worked with. moved out here to Vegas shortly after ‘Pac died. The name of the album is Fresh Work. We don’t While I was out here, I got a job and was trying to have a set release date yet, but we’re getting all change my life around. Through that, I met Chris the records together. We’ve got records with Too Buck. He was kinda going through some things Short and of course the single with Ray J called in his life also and was thinking about quitting “Top Notch Chick.” We’re getting it all together music. I told him, “Nah, man, it’s a blessing,” and creating a buzz. and came to find out that he had been friends with Ray J and for years. He’s Is there anything else you’d like to add? been around Hip Hop moguls for years and he J Sha: Shout out to everybody in the Las Vegas basically is a Hip Hop mogul. He left his job and area that’s helping us out. ended up getting signed to Virgin Records, but Ray J: I just want to say that Chris Buck brought he always told me he’d come back to help my sit- the Enfamous Burnaz to my attention. He’s been uation. I always believed in what me and Smiley bringing a lot of business to me out here in were doing. We both come from the streets and Vegas. He brought them to my attention and we had to hustle for whatever we had. Unfortunate- all started vibing. I love the “Top Notch” record, ly Smiley got locked up for what he was doing in and I’m glad we’re all gonna be able to make good records together and put out stuff that people will genuinely love, request, and call in for. I want to thank Chris Buck for that. I’m real excited about the stuff we’re going to do with the Enfamous Burnaz. God bless them. //

58 // OZONE MAG If you’ve ever rooted for a team How would you compare being an athlete to playing against the Indianapolis being a musician? What are the similarities and Colts, more than likely you’ve differences? cursed defensive end Dwight They’re very similar. Obviously the lifestyles we live are very similar. I don’t know if they have Freeney a few times. But he’s not an off-season like athletes have an off-season such a bad guy. As a four-time where they’re not really working. Musicians are Pro Bowler and 2007 Super Bowl always working to some extent, whether they’re Champion, Dwight is admirable in touring, working on a new album, or doing radio, everything he does, on and off they’re always doing something. I guess we have the field. When he’s not training little things such as autograph signings here and for a big game, or fulfilling his there, and we’re working out which is kinda like civic duties, Freeney is getting his working on an album. side hustle on with his new music You’ve won a Super Bowl and you’ve been to label American Dreams. the Pro Bowl four times. Those are pretty big honors. Do you have any advice for people who Who are some of your favorite Hip Hop are trying to reach your level of success? artists? I think most importantly you should get into a My favorite artists right now would be Nas, T.I., routine for success and follow it. You can’t be all Young Jeezy, Jay-Z. over the place. You have to stick to [your rou- tine]. That’s what I’ve been building. I’ve found You seem to appreciate lyricists. What are something that works, a workout regimen that your thoughts on the current state of Hip works. I’m comfortable where I work out. Train- Hop and where it’s going? ing is important. For the most part, I train with I think right now, what’s selling has nothing the same people so they know me. to do with lyrics. It’s more about the song and the beat. It’s more about the production and Explain to the people what American Dreams is what’s on the surface. and how that came about. American Dreams is an entertainment company. Do you think that’s something we in the Hip We have different divisions for movies and mu- Hop community will eventually outgrow? sic. We aren’t into TV stuff yet. As of right now, as Yeah, I think it’s a phase. I think the things a startup company, we’re focusing more on the being said will have more substance behind music side of it. I have four or five studios in L.A. them. Hopefully we’ll get back to that. We’re a production company so we have facilities for the artists that we sign and also for people Is there a song that you feel represents you that want to rent out studios. the most? I’d say Rick Ross’ “Hustlin’.” Are you looking to sign artists and producers? We have a few artists and producers. We have a lot of stuff in-house for our people, but other people also use our producers.

During football season, your schedule is pretty hectic. How will you be able to manage American Dreams and still stay focused on your athletic responsibilities? Do you have someone that runs the company for you? I have people helping me. They’re involved in the whole entire loop. An friend of mine, Gary West, is the one who’s actually running the company as of right now. No major decision is made without me, but for the most part, he’s taking care of the day to day things.

Is there anything sports related in your career you’re still looking to conquer? For what I do, you always try to achieve great- ness every year and get to the top. I’ve won one Super Bowl, I’m trying to get to where I have a dynasty of winning multiple Super Bowls and to be one of the greatest teams, and one of the greatest players of all times.

Words by Ms. Rivercity

OZONE MAG // 59 Spark Dawg Doin’ What You Can’t Maino/If Tomorrow Comes Hustle Hard/Atlantic While the title may be a tad bit lofty for regional superstar It’s not Maino’s lyricism that makes If Tomorrow Spark Dawg, his efforts here have him poised for national Comes a solid first effort, but throughout his recognition. He opens strong with the trumpet and debut album, he managed to tell his story 808-laced “Grape.” Following are impressive concept records like “Open Letter from spending ten years in prison to becom- to God,” where he talks to the big man upstairs ala Eminem’s “Stan,” and “Real ing one of the most anticipated rappers to Trey Songz/ Niggaz Revenge,” where he raps from the perspective of a jealous somebody. come out of NYC in years. Maino’s singles “Hi Anticipation Both songs carry hints of Slim Shady’s writing prowess. While Spark shows Hater” and “All The Above” are standouts, but As the release date for range with his beat selection and flows, the only flaw that takes away from “Remember My Name,” “Runaway,” “Floating” his third album Ready the listening experience is the average sound quality, which is a big flaw. But and “Hood Love” with Trey Songz are the tracks approaches, Trey Songz if you can get past that, Spark has a strong collection of songs on this project. that carry the album’s message of striving hits awaiting fans - Maurice G. Garland through life’s tribulations. This album is better with a freebie called viewed as a whole as opposed to track by Anticipation. With songs track, but however you look at it, Maino should like “Scratchin’ Me Up,” be applauded for properly conveying his life’s “Does She Know” and Young Jeezy & DJ Folk story through his music. - Randy Roper “It Would Be You,” this Trappin’ Ain’t Dead mixtape could have easily been packaged The latest mixtape from Mr. as Songz’s album. Most 17.5 is consistent with the thug of the tracks on here motivational rhymes over synthesized production that are good, but none of listeners have come to expect from the CTE breadwin- them are necessarily ner. The mixtape has plenty of tracks like “My 1st 48 Hrs,” “I’m Goin’ In” and his best work, which is “Biggest Movie Ever” that’ll satisfy Jeezy fans through the summer. But some probably why the tracks of the tracks like “Might Just Blow That” and “Ready To Ride” are lukewarm at Ace Hood/Ruthless were offered up for free. best, and sound more like music you’ve heard before (or possible leftovers We The Best/Def Jam But this release does a from his last album The Recession). Trappin’ Ain’t Dead is a good release, but good job of heighten- you get the feeling he’s saving his best work for his next album, Thug Motiva- Despite the fact that Ace Hood’s debut album ing the anticipation for tion 103. - Randy Roper Gutta was released less than a year ago, Songz’s new album. I Khaled, We The Best and Def Jam felt the need think we’re Ready for to deliver Ace’s sophomore album ASAP. But it. - Randy Roper this album is a lot like the first one. Yes, Ace can rap fairly well, but none of his songs are Soulja Boy & DJ Drama anything special. Not the song with Ludacris Follow Me: Gangsta (“Born An O.G.”), not the song with Akon & T- Pain (“Overtime”), not even the song with Rick True S.O.D. Money Gang fanatics Ross & Jazmine Sullivan (“Champion”). Maybe will love this mixtape because he needs to learn how to tame his ruthless, it’s a Gangsta Grillz, and because it’s Soulja Boy, but with rapid-fire, aggressive flow. Or maybe, since he a project this overdue, a little more time could have been has the Runners, the Inkredibles and all of Def spent on the song selection and arrangement. “Bands” and “I Got Mojo” are Jam at Khaled’s fingertips, he should pick - superb Soulja Boy material and would have been best served opening up ter beats. Whatever the case may be, Ruthless the project, rather than appearing later in the tracklist. “Go Ham” featuring OJ isn’t a bad album. It’s just not anything to keep da Juiceman and the freestyles are somewhat lacking, but they make up for in heavy rotation. - Randy Roper it with songs like “What You Know,” “Gold Grill Shawty,” and the bonus track “Bitch I’m Paid.” This mixtape will definitely hold fans over until the release of SB’s third album The DeAndre Way, or maybe the second Gangsta Grillz. - Ms. Rivercity Born Wit It, DJ Holiday & The Empire Substance Abuse From the opening verse, Nicki Minaj, DJ Holiday, & The you can tell this mixtape Trap-A-Holics Pleasure P/The Introduc- is worth a listen. The Beam Me Up Scotty tion of Marcus Cooper first official mixtape Swagga Entertainment/ from these Atlanta B.o.B Nicki the Ninja has created Bluestar/Atlantic affiliates has tracks like a sub-culture of harajuku barbie bitches and her fan Comebacks aren’t always easy. Fortunately, “Dying To Live,” “Life club probably doubled with this mixtape. Though a few former Pretty Ricky member Pleasure P has his Gets Harder” and “Stack freestyles like “Best I Ever Had” and “Get Silly” could have been left off, overall alter ego Mr. Marcus Cooper to help him out. Your Paper Up” that will the complaints are few. Young Money’s diva impresses on nearly every song Coming strong with his solo debut album, The quickly start compari- starting with “I Get Crazy.” The ode to Fendi and Louis (“Shopaholic” with Introduction Of Mr. Marcus Cooper, Pleasure lets sons to Atlanta duos like and Gucci Mane) is also worth a listen, along with “Keys Under Palm it be known that he can handle the weight on Youngbloodz and Trees” and “Easy” with Gucci and Rocko. Nicki’s image may be similar to a Lil his own, delivering an overall impressive album. Outkast (okay, not quite Kim, but her range of skill and content are superior. Kim can swallow a Sprite With the single “Did You Wrong” providing the Outkast). There are a can—Nicki can rap, act, and sing. - Ms. Rivercity main steam for this engine, Pleasure gives an couple tracks Substance album full of baby making music with notable Abuse could have gone titles such as “Tender Roni” and “Fire Lovin.” without, but overall this Judging from this (re)introduction, it looks mixtape place the group like Mr. Cooper may be here for a while. - Tony in the “artists to watch” Burgos category. - Randy Roper

60 // OZONE MAG Archie Eversole & DJ Scream Back Like I Never Left R. Kelly, DJ Drama & DJ Skee It’s been about seven years The Demo Tape since Archie Eversole’s “We Ready” was on the rap charts. Backed by DJ Scream, Archie returns to the rap radar with A video of Kellz “making it rain,” Back Like I Never Left. Fans that hear the new Archie might be taken aback, as minors-galore, and a smaller this isn’t the overly crunk 16-year-old kid that the game was first introduced R&B market, all mixed together can only lead to one thing to. Lil Archie is a grown rapper now, and he’s actually a better rapper than - a R. Kelly mixtape. The Pied Piper himself teams up with most listeners may remember. But even with that said, this mixtape isn’t Mr. Thanksgiving to put out The Demo Tape, which proves the Pied Piper still very impressive. This mixtape’s best offering is “Keep Winning,” featuring Ray fucks around, but, as always, not when it comes to the music. Kellz adds his Lavender. Eversole could have benefited from better production, better con- flavor to tracks like Drake’s “Best I Ever Had” and brings exclusives such as cepts, better hooks, and overall, just better songs. Hopefully Archie will find a “Superman High” with OJ Da Juiceman. Regardless of what you think of Mr. sound that’s more in tune with the music of today. - Randy Roper Kelly as a person, The Demo Tape is another reason you can’t question Kellz as a musician. - Rohit Loomba

J. Cole Nephewblaq & DJ Smallz Sponsored By The Streetz The Warm Up is J. Cole’s second official mixtape, and first since Orlando, FL’s Nephewblaq has signing to Jay-Z’s Roc Nation. This mixtape is a pure indi- been after it for quite some cation of why Jay inked the rapper/producer to his new time, so chances are you’ve seen his picture in OZONE at label. Cole lyrically breezes through 22 tracks, and on standouts like “Grown least once. Photo ops aside, this Nephewblaq & DJ Smallz Simba,” “Lights Please” and “I Get Up,” he displays a lyrical dexterity and mixtape is a small step in the right direction, but Nephew’s bars still leave thought-provoking rhymes unseen in most newcomers of today. A couple room for improvement. He has an ear for picking decent beats, but his ability short freestyles would have been better left off, since they don’t fit into the to precisely ride the production he selects is the issue. Of course, artists like overall mix of original tracks, but besides that, The Warm Up doesn’t leave Gucci Mane and OJ Da Juiceman have proven you don’t necessary have to be much to complain about. If this is just a warm up, it’ll be interesting to hear the most fluent rapper to be successful, but whereas Gucci and OJ overcame what J. Cole sounds like in midseason. - Randy Roper their shortcomings and still make catchy records, Nephewblaq isn’t the same story. “Da Ice Got Me To Fly,” “I Love America,” “I Run These Streetz” are somewhat memorable, but if the streets sponsored this mixtape, that money might have been best spent someplace else. - Randy Roper Nonsence/Chewee Radio Vol. 2

Part II of Nonsence’s Chewee Radio series is worth taking a Laws & DJ Smallz listen to. As a rapper, Nonsence Your Future Favorite Rapper isn’t bad, but this mixtape has no excuse for being 26 For someone “born in Brazil, tracks long. There are some good records like “Wake It Up” raised in Long Island, in white with Akon, “Do You Like It” and “Watching You.” But there’s too many random suburbs,” Laws raps pretty skits, and remakes like Jennifer Hudson’s “Spotlight” and Jazmine Sullivan’s good. Unfortunately that means he probably won’t be in “Bust Your Windows” were bad ideas. If this mixtape was focused more on any of your favorite music videos anytime soon, so this making good music as opposed to a radio show theme with Top 10 Hip Hop project’s title may not apply to the masses. And at times his content is some- and R&B hits, Nonsence might have something, but all the skits and remixes what repetitive. But with authentic concepts and amusing delivery, along make this mostly nonsense. - Randy Roper with J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League and Trackburnerz’ production, Laws’ proves he’s in the right business, though he tends to criticize it too much. Not one to cater to radio, aside from the enjoyable crossover song “Rain,” you can expect more bar-for-bar lyricism than Billboard chart toppers from Laws - which is a good Yung LA & DJ Drama/Lambo- thing if you appreciate skill over mindless entertainment. - Ms. Rivercity rghini Leland Grand Hustle & Gangsta Grillz

The first thing you’ll notice about Trick Daddy & DJ Dephtone/ Lamborghini Leland is that his dimensions are broader The Product 7 than the typical futuristic Yung LA we’re used to. Though We haven’t heard much lately you’ll find lots of decent swag tracks like “Offset,” “Bands,” and “Fuckin Wit Da MIA’s original don dada, Trick Hood,” here Leland Austin offers a deeper look into who he really is besides Daddy. However, while he just another mohawk rapper. Songs like “Caught My Daddy with It,” which may have been away, it’s apparent that he hasn’t been talks about his father receiving a life sentence, and the intro, which is an sleeping. He linked up with Miami mixtape legend DJ almost unrecognizable L.A. flow, make for a surprising listen. While it might Dephtone to put together 24 tracks of some of his best music in years. not exactly be lambo material, this mixtape could get steady rotation in a Simply put, this shit rides out. Filled with exclusive tracks and appearances Benz for sure. - Ms. Rivercity from artists like Young Jeezy, Kanye, and Majic, this is a great way for Trick to bring back his buzz. - Tony Burgos

OZONE MAG // 61 melody or even a drum, whatever we feel. Lee Major: There ain’t really no order, it’s just whatever vibe we catch first.

What other albums did you get placements on after the Ace Hood album? Lee Major: We produced for Young Jeezy, DJ Khaled, more recently Rick Ross, Deeper Than Rap, , and there’s more to come. Moe: The album. We’re just constantly working, trying to get on every project.

the Inkredibles, a production duo You produced three songs on Deeper Than Rap. that consists of Maurice “Moe” Car- How was that experience for you two as new penter and Leigh “Lee Major” Elliott, producers? are well on their way to becoming Moe: It feels great to be a part of a classic album. household names in Hip Hop. HAV- I think you can put the CD in and listen to it from ING producED hit records for Ace start to finish. It’s just great music. It feels great Hood, Young Jeezy, Fat Joe, Jadakiss, to be a part of something that the world loves. and Rick Ross, the Inkredibles have a discography that even veteran You produced “Usual Suspects” with Nas on Deeper Than Rap. What was your reaction when producers would ENVY. Under the anybody and bang out hits. It’s not like we’re just you heard Nas was getting on the beat? tutelage of DJ Nasty and DJ Khaled, “in the box” producers. Lee Major: That was a good moment because Nas this production duo from Rich- Moe: We try to go for big radio records, more is one of my favorite rappers. He’s definitely a mond, Virginia, is bringing some- commercial stuff, like that Top 40 type of sound. legend in the game. thing “inkredible” to the game. That’s the music that we shoot for. Moe: We both grew up listening to Nas, so I think it was a great collaboration. Production Credits: Ace Hood F/Trey Songz Where did you get the name “Inkredibles” from? “Ride,” Young Jeezy “Vacation,” Jadakiss F/Mary J. Moe: It doesn’t have anything to do with the Another song you produced is “Mafia Music,” Blige “Grind Hard,” Rick Ross “Mafia Music” cartoon. We just needed a name to come out which is the song Ross first dissed 50 Cent on. with that describes our work, and we felt that’s How did you react when you first heard Ross’ You’re signed with Nasty Beatmakers and We the best name that matches what we do. diss? The Best. How’d y’all get with Nasty and Khaled? Moe: We were like, “Wow.” We knew we had a Moe: Through a guy named Spiff TV. He heard What was your first placement on a major album? lot of stuff ahead of us, cause we knew once our music , played it for Nasty, and Nasty signed Moe: Ace Hood’s “Ride” featuring Trey Songz. the record came out it was gonna be big. It was us. Then Khaled heard our music and wanted to Lee Major: It was a good experience getting our like another Jay-Z and Nas situation where like jump on board. first placement. Everyone was excited. “Ether,” it’s going to get a lot of attention. Moe: Our first placement was a single. To make How is it being a part of We The Best? 106th & Park, and then for the video to go #1, I What else do you have lined up? Moe: I think it’s wonderful because Khaled has think that was great. Moe: Ace Hood we’ve got lined up. Rick Ross is that president position at Def Jam South, so he’s working on another album. keeping us on every project. He goes in hard, Did you have thing else on Ace Hood’s album? Lee Major: We got Fat Joe’s new single out featur- and he wants the best for us, so I think it’s great Moe: We had five joints on there. We got the ing Akon called “One,” so we’re working. cause he motivates us to go beyond our means. “Ride (Remix)” with Rick Ross and Juelz [Santana]. Moe: We got some stuff coming out on Jeezy’s We The Best, that’s what he lives and dies for. We got “Call Me” featuring Lloyd, “Get Him” and project, and some R&B projects. Just stay tuned. So, that’s what we live and die for, to be the best “Money Over Here.” Y’all been hearing a lot of Hip Hop stuff [from producers that are out there. us]. We do Hip Hop for fun. We’re working with What’s your production process like? Adrienne Bailon from 3LW, , and . What would you say is the Inkredibles’ sound? Moe: We go in the studio with an artist in mind, R&B and Pop is what we do, that’s where we go Lee Major: We’re versatile, so we don’t have one and we try to catch a vibe, and work on some- in at, so stay tuned for that. It’s just a whole other certain sound. We go in the studio, work with thing that will fit the artist. We’ll start off with a side for the world to see. //

62 // OZONE MAG Grand Hustle & Greg Street “Greg Hustle: The Mixtape Vol. 1”

1. DJ Whoo Kid, DJ Scream & Shaq “The Hit List” djwhookid.org Myspace.com/4045405000 Atlanta DJ Greg Street, and the house that T.I. and Jason Geter built, teamed up for 2. DJ Teknikz “If U Buyin We Sellin Vol. 22” Myspace.com/djteknikz this month’s Mix of the Month. The mixtape 3. ATLiens “The Mixtape” features a shitload of exclusive Grand Hustle 4. MLK & T.I. “A Year And A Day” Myspace.com/mlkng music. From new joints by Killer Mike (“Man 5. DJ Spinatik “Street Runnaz 37” Djspinatik.com/ Up,” “My City” & “Pay Up”) to cuts from Big Kuntry (“End Of The Night” featuring Shawty 6. DJ Chuck T “Down South Slangin’ 59” djchuckt.com Redd) and Young Dro (“Rock Diamonds” & “You 7. DJ G-Spot, Gucci Mane & DJ Da Juiceman “The White Bros: The South 15” Djgspot.com Nasty” featuring Akon) to unreleased songs by the King himself (“Make You Sweat” & “Don’t 8. DJ Mr. King “Southern Smothered & Covered 13” Hosted by Dorrough Music myspace.com/djmrking Forget” with Mary J. Blige), the Greg Hustle 9. DJ Bobby Black “N.W.A.: Crack Addiction – West Coast Edition” Myspace.com/djbobbyblack mixtape proves that unlike LeBron James and 10. Lil Fats “Coast 2 Coast 82” Hosted by Coast2coastmixtapes.com the Cleveland Cavaliers, this King’s team is far from a one man show. 11. DJ Wizkid “Serving The Streets Vol. II” Hosted by Roscoe Myspace.com/djwizkidmusic 12. DJ Nik Bean “Streetz of LA 8” Hosted by Kurupt Myspace.com/nikbean 13. DJ Scorpio & Janiro “Follow Me: The Mix CD Part 2” Hosted by Cristal aka Serious DJs, send your mix CDs (with a cover) for 14. Evil Empire “N.Y. Trafficking” Myspace.com/evilempire consideration to: 15. DJ E-Top “Trap To The Future” Myspace.com/etopent OZONE Magazine 16. DJ Woogie “Gucci The Great” Myspace.com/djwoogie 644 Antone St. Suite 6 17. Mick Boogie & ThePressPlayShow.com “Hammer Time: Past, Present & Future” Hosted by MC Hammer Mickboogie.com Atlanta, GA 30318 18. Mike Johns “Maury Povich: I Am Not The Baby’s Daddy” 19. DJ Wheezy “Trill Skillz 4.0” Myspace.com/djwheezy

20. DJ Drizzle “Mix Vol. 18” Myspace.com/djdrizzle OZONE MAG // 63 64 // OZONE MAG OZONE MAG // 65 end zone

Trey Songz Venue: Sobe Live City: Miami, FL Date: May 24th, 2009 Photo: Terrence Tyson

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