Mos Def’s True Magic, CMJ Day 2, New Common Video, The Clipse w/ The Roots in VA, ?uesto’s Record Room.
We bumped into Mos Def’s manager the other night and took the opportunity to inquire about the anomaly that was Mos’s True Magic and the bizarre manner in which it was released (no fanfare, no hype, clear plastic jewel case with a simple cd inside with a graphic of Mos on the cd). There’s been much speculation surrounding this record, especially considering it was his last commitment to Geffen Records. Although released a while back (12/29/06), rumors have lingered that the album could be return in some sort of more “official” manner, possibly with a different tracklisting. Mos’s manager explained that they had no further plans for the project. It turns out Mos wanted the album put out the way it was, with no frills attached, all about the music. He wanted a simple release, with literally no media promotion, just some great music on disc with his name on it. It was intended for those who knew, and for those who missed it, well. And now Label Guy has confirmed this from their end. And btw, it is some great music so cop if you haven’t!
If you haven’t seen The Release Party, a documentary about Dilated Peoples and a celebration of their release from a four album contract with Capitol Records, you are truly missing out. Read this in-depth interview with director Jason Goldwatch, who served as a “fly on the wall” for years as he captured rare and insightful backstage moments with the crew. Make sure you peep all the cool photos too! “What a tripper,” haha.
Yesterday was Day 2 of CMJ’s New York City take-over. Writer Candace L. takes you on her journey as she hits the streets in search of some good music.
Since we received so many hysterical responses to the Common create-a-caption contest we ran earlier this week, we decided why not do another? When this brand new photo in promotion for the “I Want You” video world premiere on October 23rd (BET 106 & Park, and AOL Music) found it’s way to our desks we thought, “perfect!” First watch the trailer, then come up with your caption. The winner of this one gets a FREE Okayplayer “Choose Your Weapon” t-shirt (either the Mic, Drums, Bass Guitar, or Sousaphone). Good luck.
In case you weren’t able to make The Roots show in Norfolk, VA this past September, here is a clip of The Clipse for your earbuds. Thanks to our homie HighVoltage, listen to a portion of the show with The Clipse featuring The Roots. For more on that night, read Skillz tour diary entry for that date (9/27/07).
Aiyo, Donn and Ahmir, thanks for letting us know about this! Ok, after you hand us our late pass, peep this insider vid of ?uesto’s record library. For those dusty-fingered crate-diggers out there, beware!, you gonna be MAD.
New York, this Saturday come see Wiz Khalifa perform live with DJ sets by Green Lantern and Klever all at 205 Chrystie. Also on Saturday, we’ve got stuff going on in Philly (and NJ). It’s a Black Lily event at Rutgers (right over that bridge!). This is the first installment of a series of Black Lily events at Rutgers, this one featuring Imani Uzuri and Ursula Rucker.
-gingerlynn