Pardon My Fresh

Why the Knicks Need to Make the Deal for Dwight

2012-01-28T10:00:00.002-05:00

Right now, the New York Knicks suck. Period. ESPN's Steven A. Smith reported earlier this week that the Orlando Magic called the Knicks offices and inquired about making a trade. The trade would send Dwight Howard and Hedo Turkoglu to the Knicks for Amar'e Stoudamire and Tyson Chandler. I'm all for it. Throw Toney Douglass in there too.

This current Knicks roster is an experiment that has obviously gone wrong. The biggest problem has been the absence of a proven point guard to distribute the ball and run the offense. Douglass isn't a point guard. Iman Shumpert is a rookie. Mike Bibby is either passed his prime or doesn't have a good enough relationship with Coach D'antoni to warrant more playing time.

The general consensus has been to wait on Baron Davis to return from the injured reserve list before making any major moves. And I honestly hope to God that Baron can make a real difference and turn this ship around. Last year, with Chauncey Billups running the point, Stat and Melo played well enough to believe that the combination could work. And Davis is certainly on the level of Billups.

But is it realistic to think that Baron Davis is going to fix everything that's wrong with this team? The Magic desperately want to move Dwight Howard to avoid him leaving at the end of the season for nothing. Make the move.

On the court, Dwight and Melo work better than Stat and Melo because Dwight has an effective post-game that demands double teams. He'll pass out to Melo for open shots. And Dwight is a monster on defense, even more dominant than Chandler. It's a 2-for-1.

Off the court, Dwight and Amar'e's contracts will basically cancel each other out and Tyson Chandler comes off the books, freeing up cap room to go after Deron Williams, who is also a free agent after this season and currently playing on the soon-to-be Brooklyn Nets (a team that is just as bad as the Knicks). At this point, why not make the trade? It can't get any worse than it already is.

Amar'e Stoudemire's Last Day at Foot Locker

2012-01-27T12:51:00.001-05:00

Yeah, but...Nevermind...

Spotted at Nice Kicks

Harsh Labor Conditions at Apple Factories Exposed

2012-01-26T11:05:00.000-05:00

Today, the NY Times released a report detailing the harsh conditions faced by plant workers in China. These are factories that manufacture iPhones, iPads, iPods and other Apple products and accessories. You can read the full story HERE.

50 Cent + Floyd Mayweather - Money Team Jackets

2012-01-25T23:24:00.000-05:00

"I'm with the MONEY TEAM!" © Ray-J

Earlier today, 50 tweeted a few flicks of his custom Money Team jackets. Got a couple dope colorways. More after the jump:

President Obama - 2012 State of the Union

2012-01-24T20:57:00.003-05:00

The online-only enhanced version of President Obama's third State of the Union Address features charts, stats and data that helped inform President Obama's policy decisions.

Shit Unsigned Rappers Say

2012-01-23T10:18:00.001-05:00

Not to be confused with "Shit Rappers Say." Comedy.

An Open Letter To Jeff Van Gundy

2012-01-16T22:52:00.001-05:00

Dear Coach Van Gundy,

I tried. Lord knows, I've tried. I tried to give Mike D'antoni the benefit-of-the-doubt. Numerous roster changes. Lockout shortened season. Poorly-timed injuries. I can't do it anymore.

I've been a Knicks fan since Michael Jordan's 1st retirement. I remember the Ewing finger roll against the Houston Rockets. I have Marv Albert's voice screaming "STARKS FOR 3 AAAANNNDDD...NO!" embedded in my brain. I remember Allan Houston's shot hitting the front of the rim...and then the backboard...and finally the net...the fist pump...defeating the Miami Heat. The LJ 4-point play. The image of Latrell Sprewell walking to the locker room, dragging his hand along the wall after losing to the San Antonio Spurs. The ups and the downs.

The Knicks have been a terrible team for years. So when we finally landed marquee players...superstars the caliber of Stat and Melo, I thought we were headed in the right direction. A legit Rookie of the Year candidate (Iman Shumpert) that we were lucky enough to grab as the 17th pick. The best big man we've had since Ewing (Tyson Chandler). Talented roll players. It should be better than this.

But it's not. And it's clear that D'antoni is the problem. On paper, this is 1 of the best Knickerbocker teams EVER. On the court, a different story is told. They look lost. There is no direction. No effective offensive schemes. No defense. At all. No passion.

Jeff, you did more with less. Houston and Sprewell both averaged just above 20 points a game. LJ had no strength left in his back. Ewing was out for the year. CHARLIE WARD was the starting point guard for God's sake. And we made it to the Finals. This current Knicks team will make the playoffs by default and then be eliminated in the 1st round. This can't be life. We need you back, Jeff. You had those boys believing they were a championship team. Imagine what you could do now.

Martin Luther King Jr x The Boondocks...It Needed To Be Said

2012-01-16T11:29:00.000-05:00

We've all seen this before...it still applies...

Lagato Shine EPK

2012-01-08T13:23:00.000-05:00

To get you up-to-date with Lagato Shine.

NEW MUSIC: "Hardcore" - Fresh/High Society (Produced By Sneaky Beanz)

2012-01-06T21:09:00.001-05:00

Fresh/High Society - Hardcore by sne∂kyßΞ▲NZ

Happy New Year from AO & Fresh/High Society

2011-12-31T19:39:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year, folks.

NEW MUSIC: "The Flowers" - Fresh/High Society (AO Produced By Balistik)

2011-12-31T01:13:00.000-05:00

The Flowers - Fresh/High Society (AO Produced By Balistik) by Fresh/High Society

Fresh/High Society in 2011

2011-12-29T12:58:00.001-05:00

<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://freshhighsociety.bandcamp.com/album/un-popular-couture"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;(UN)Popular Couture by Fresh/High Society&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>
<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://freshhighsociety.bandcamp.com/album/the-fresh-files"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;The Fresh Files by Fresh/High Society&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>
2011 was a positive year for Fresh/High Society. 2 new projects, 2 new videos, a few shows and the beginning of a solid fan base. Recently, I had a few people contact me and ask when we're putting new music out or doing another show. Soon. Thanks again to everybody that supported in 2011. Cheers to 2012.

Fresh/High on Twitter
Fresh/High on Facebook.

And You Buy The Shit...Caught Up In The Hype

2011-12-23T23:00:00.001-05:00

Air Jordan XI "Concords"

By now, you've all heard the stories of people acting like animals over the release of these earlier today. Over-hype. Obviously, I dig the sneaker culture quite a bit but I also have priorities. And honestly, if you didn't have a hook-up for these, you did too much.

Check Nice Kicks or ESPN for more reports.

#SK Grape For The Win

2011-12-23T22:19:00.000-05:00

Was sluggish today. Picked up 1 of these SK shots. Drank it. Woke up. Took care of business. Bought 2 more. Fed 3 people.

The Top Five Regrets of the Dying

2011-12-19T13:03:00.001-05:00

My dude Phella put me on to an article on Addicted2Success.com that was written by Bronnie Ware. She's a health-care worker and spent some time interviewing patients who were at the end of their lives. She asked them what their biggest regrets were now that they were looking back and reflecting. The 5 most common answers are after the jump:

1. I wish I’d had the courage to live a life true to myself, not the life others expected of me.

2. I wish I didn’t work so hard.

3. I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings.

4. I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends.

5. I wish that I had let myself be happier.

Really fascinating stuff. Well, upon further investigation, I came across the full-length book, The Top Five Regrets of the Dying, which you can buy HERE or HERE on Amazon. Definitely worth the time.

Tweets Is Watching: TSA vs Freddie Gibbs

2011-12-16T21:01:00.001-05:00

Sooo, Freddie Gibbs (a rapper from Gary, Indiana whom I'm a fan of) posted that pic to his Twitter account on Wednesday. Welp, TSA released this statement after catching wind of Gibbs' pic:

"TSA takes all allegations of inappropriate conduct seriously and is investigating this claim. Should the claims be substantiated, TSA will take appropriate disciplinary steps and refer the alleged possession of an illegal substance to law enforcement."

Damn, bruh.

Don't Call It A Comeback...It's 50

2011-12-15T11:00:00.001-05:00

By now, you've all heard 50 Cent's The Big 10 mixtape. It's safe to say that 50 commands your attention every time he drops something new. The funny thing is, people are quick to make comments like "This is the kind of music that 50 needs to make." In actuality, he's BEEN making this. His last major label release was Before I Self Destruct. If you tell me that wasn't hot, you're crazy. So, don't call it a comeback...it's just 50.

Check the 3 videos dropped in support of The Big 10 after the jump:

Lagato Shine ft. Mistah FAB & AO - "Martin N' Gina" (Trailer)

2011-12-10T02:56:00.003-05:00

So, on Thursday, the video for "Martin N' Gina," a song by Lagato Shine feat Mistah FAB and produced by me, was shot at the Ugly Kitchen in NYC. Here's what FAB had to say about meeting Lagato. There's also some quick preview shots of the video and the instrumental playing in the background. Coming soon...

On a personal note, I would like to thank FAB for being a stand-up guy...very professional and humble. In this industry, that's definitely rare.

Also, check out Lagato on XXL Magazine's website HERE as part of their "The Break" series.

NEW MUSIC: "L.A.G.A.T.O." - Lagato Shine feat Ace

2011-11-30T13:00:00.001-05:00

Brand new video from one of my OG's Lagato Shine. Cameo by yours truly.

Now That The NBA Lockout Is Over...

2011-11-27T22:40:00.000-05:00

The New York Knicks will be 1 of the top 4 teams in the Eastern Conference, along with Miami, Boston and Chicago. I predict NBA Finals.

Lord Knows. Lord, No.

2011-11-18T13:28:00.000-05:00

Some beats should just be left alone...

Ludacris - "1.21 Gigawatts"

2011-11-15T20:44:00.001-05:00

Ludacris is better than your favorite rapper. 1 of the best mixtapes this year. Download HERE.

Then & Now: Michael Jordan

2011-11-09T22:10:00.000-05:00


Michael Jordan, 1998

1998 was Michael Jordan's last year as a Chicago Bull and his last season as an NBA Champion. We lost Mike in 1998. He's not for us anymore. Sure, the sneakers still sell, but they're not for us anymore either (Fusions...anyone...). We lost Michael Jordan to Michael Jordan's bank account.

This was Jordan's stance during the 1998 NBA labor negotiations:

"If you can't make a profit, you should sell your team."

That was a statement directed towards Washington Wizards owner Abe Pollin during an 11 1/2 hour meeting between players an owners. October 28th.

Michael Jordan, 2011

Fast forward to 2011 and the current labor negotiations. Jordan is reportedly the leader of a group of NBA team owners pushing for a hard salary cap and a drastic pay-cut for NBA players. The last labor agreement had the players receiving about 57% of all basketball related income (BRI). Jordan thinks that an even 50-50 split would be too much. He's in favor of 47% being given to the players. Oh, by the way, he's the majority owner of the Charlotte Bobcats. Of course...

Michael Jordan, the basketball player: Greatest of all time. Jordan, the sneaker brand: One of the greatest sneaker lines of all time (Fusions notwithstanding). Michael Jordan, the NBA team owner: Well, he can't make a profit. He should sell the team.

#PMFComedyWednesdays - "Sex Scandel"

2011-11-09T12:40:00.000-05:00

LMAO wow. The "riff" at the end is classic.

10 Years Ago: Ludacris - "Word Of Mouf"

2011-11-08T11:00:00.002-05:00

10 years ago (November 27th to be exact), Ludacris dropped the album Word Of Mouf. This was the follow up to the incredibly successful Back For The First Time. Buy it again if you can't find it. Check the videos after the jump.

Supreme Nike SB 94

2011-11-07T13:30:00.002-05:00

Got an email from Supreme earlier and came across these. Very clean. They drop in NY, LA, London and online on November 10th and on the 12th in Japan. More pics after the jump.

Dead End Hip Hop Presents | DEMOS Documentary: Inside Look

2011-11-07T11:58:00.000-05:00

ABOUT DEMOS

DEMOS is a documentary film intended to educate and inspire emerging music artists by providing insight on ways to establish and further their careers. The film features an eclectic mix of industry veterans, established artists such as Talib Kweli, Pete Rock and CL Smooth, DJ Quik, Naughty by Nature, Mac 10, Marley Marl, Rapper Big Pooh, Da Beatminerz, Murs, Freeway, DJ Rhettmatic, Shyheim, Dwele, and up-and-coming artists like Mac Miller, Boog Brown, J Davey, Donny Goines, Nikki Lynette, Marz Lovejoy, Wax, and Dumbfoundead.

With over 100 interviews (and still shooting), DEMOS features interviews with professionals from all sides of the music industry sharing experiences, advice and techniques for maximizing success in the music business. From understanding contracts, to brand management, music production, touring, merchandise, royalties, record labels, content distribution, and more, DEMOS is designed to transfer a comprehensive mix of industry and music knowledge to enhance the quality of life for those who live in a musical world.

via DemosDocumentary.com

Young Guru Interview (iStandard Beast of the Beats)

2011-11-06T01:52:00.000-04:00

For those that don't know, Young Guru has been the head engineer of Roc-A-Fella/Roc Nation since about 1999. Always interesting. (The interview was conducted by the former editor in chief of Scratch Magazine, Jerry Barrow). Enjoy.

(Recorded this on my old Fuji camera so pardon the sound quality).

EVENTS: iStandard Producers - Beast Of The Beats V

2011-11-05T13:14:00.000-04:00

The good folks over at iStandard Producers are having their 5th annual Beast Of The Beats weekend event at Webster Hall today and tomorrow. Their are a ton of panels, speakers, gear to check out and, of course, the grand finale producer showcase. I'm personally looking forward to Young Guru's portion today.

Check the complete lineup after the jump

Great Moments in Awkward Free Throw History: Chuck Hayes

2011-11-04T09:00:00.001-04:00

WOW that was ugly. Iverson's reaction was classic. The Denver bench is even funnier. Spotted at NBA Off-Season.

Noisey.com Presents...Pusha T feat Tyler, The Creator- "Trouble On My Mind" (Live Performance)

2011-11-03T14:00:00.014-04:00

Noisey.com hooked up with Pusha-T for an exclusive live performance video of his collaboration with Tyler, The Creator. This is part 2 of a 3-part video series featuring Pusha. Click HERE to check the rest out. Here's some info on Noisey:

Noisey is a video-driven music discovery platform, documenting the most talented emerging musicians from around the world. Curated by VICE, the site showcases bands and music scenes from over 10 countries.

With Dell and Intel enabling the innovative user experience, we’re giving local scenes an international audience, and music lovers the opportunity to discover great bands on a powerful, state-of-the-art digital entertainment channel.

WordSpit's Rise OF The ILLeSt! Recap Video

2011-11-03T12:58:00.001-04:00

My man DJ Laser hit me up & told me about this event that he would be DJ'ing and that he really wanted me to come through. It turned out to be one of the best events that I had been to in awhile. I got there a little after Cocoa Sarai finished her set (I've seen her perform a few times though. Incredible stage presence). I chopped it up w/ Laser in between sets as well as my man Phella. Dremur took the stage next and killed it and of course WordSpit closed the show with incredible energy.

The entire night was a fundraiser for HIV/AIDS awareness, with sponsorships from Rocawear and MTV's Staying Alive Foundation. Great cause and something that I'm happy to say I was a small part of.

Documentary: "J is for Junkie"

2011-11-02T01:42:00.000-04:00

I saw this documentary by Corey Davis a few months ago and I just came across it again, figured I'd share with y'all.

This is a very raw piece on crack addicts living in Atlanta. You'll be hooked after the first couple of minutes.

Beyond This Point (Of View): Travis Speaks on Acceptance and Admiration

2011-11-01T10:00:00.002-04:00

Written by Travis Mendes of Beyond This Point

Man, it really has been a while since I’ve posted my own blog entry. Sometimes, you just want to get things off of your chest, not for anyone else, but so you can look back and see how you’ve progressed as a human being, if at all. I can thank my girlfriend for that one.

The people around me come in layers: very, very few in my inside circle, a few more in the middle, and everyone else on the outside. To me, I would think that people on the outside would have more to say about me, since they really have no real connection to me. Hearing something negative from someone you don’t know doesn’t hold that much weight, unless you allow it to. In my case, I’ve been blessed/cursed to have friends that are always real with me, whether I want to hear it or not.

I say that to say this: over this past weekend, I watched “The Social Network” for the first time. Amazing movie. (I think that goes without saying by now.) My drummer/brother/self-titled renaissance man of now and forever/robot Bernard and I exchanged text messages after I watched it, just discussing the premise of the movie, and showing how it relates to our lives. After going back and forth, he said the realest thing I’ve heard about myself in a while. I’m going to write out the text word-for-word, so I don’t misquote him:

…I’ve changed so has our music and so have we evolved together, u and I both battle with arrogance in different forms, me more obviously, in the general sense, but you in the sense that u felt so ‘deserving’ of accolades but weren’t even willing to promote yourself…

Of course naturally, in my mind, I went on the defensive. I start thinking about all the “strides” I’ve made in our music and amongst our peers (as I sit in my room, across from my mother smh) and try to justify my feeling of this with mini-projects no one knows about, songs no one listens to, lyrics no one reads, and shows we haven’t done in forever. I went to work that night, and the words he said started sinking in. I start thinking about the appreciation I don’t get from my peers…people not understanding me, or at least not willing to, and I start thinking of why. What he said is true: I look to be praised and adored by the people I know, but have I really done much to gain anyone’s respect in that manner? As much smoke as I would want to blow up my own ass, the truth is that I just want the same attention that everyone lusts after. How ironic is that right after I finished working, right after I’ve come to this epiphany, that “Want To Be Loved” by my friend Jon Bellion comes on? My life’s in a warped perspective. Lol.

Welcome Back

2011-10-31T10:00:00.012-04:00

Picture courtesy of Soul(er) Activity

Well, it's been quite some time since this blog has been up. And there are really 2 reasons:

I didn't have the time to properly oversee this website.
I honestly just lost interest.

Mostly the 2nd reason. It had become redundant. When I first started Pardon My Fresh back in 2008, I had an idea, a specific vision. And that vision was to create an online platform to showcase all of the fun, creative, interesting and FORWARD-THINKING things that I came across in life.

Somewhere along the lines, that idea was forgotten and that vision was blurred. Instead, I now ran a website that I couldn't distinguish from any other "lifestyle" blog. It became a shell of its former self, resembling a Nah Right/Hypebeast hybrid that I was no longer proud of. And so, I put it on the shelf.

Fast forward to today...
I honestly just missed this site. And I felt it was time to bring it back. Let's get back to having fun. Let's get back to the forward thinking. Let's redefine FRESH.

Stay tuned...

NEW Music "Mama Said!" - Beyond This Point

2011-06-04T10:01:00.000-04:00

MamaSaid! by BEYONDTHISPOINT

So Long Shaq

2011-06-01T19:37:00.005-04:00

Just a few hours ago via Twitter @SHAQ announced his retirement.

After 19 seasons and over 28,000 points and countless memories, nicknames, and Free Throw jokes. From the first Shaq sneaker to Kazaam and Shaq-Fu (the album and video game), he always entertained and I don't think there is anyone who will ever break down backboards like the Diesel.. Just wanted to post a few of my personal favorite Shaq Moments

- Live From The iFresh

Fresh/High Society - "Home Sweet Home" (Video Shoot - Behind The Scenes)

2011-05-23T13:19:00.000-04:00

The NEW single and video by Fresh/High Society, “Home Sweet Home,” coming SOON!!

FreshHighSociety.com

Phil's Farewell

2011-05-09T00:37:00.000-04:00

The Legendary Phil Jackson made the announcement that everyone had to know was coming.

Obama Announces Death of Bin Laden

2011-05-02T00:28:00.000-04:00

President Obama announced at 10:30 last night that Osama bin Laden, the leader of Al Qaeda responsible for the Sept. 11 attacks, was killed in a firefight during an operation he ordered Sunday inside Pakistan, ending a 10-year manhunt for the world’s most wanted terrorist. American officials were in possession of his body, he said.

“On nights like this one, ‘’ the president said, “we can say that justice has been done.’’

Welcome to May

2011-05-01T11:12:00.001-04:00

RICK ROSS I AM STILL MUSIC TOUR VLOG 1 from DRE FILMS / MAYBACH FILMS on Vimeo.

MAYBACH MUSIC 'SELF MADE' ALBUM DROPS MAY-BACH 24TH.

Ross is also scheduled to walk down with Manny Paquiao this coming Saturday May, 7 in his fight against Shane Mosely

"Merlot (Freestyle)" - Uncle AO

2011-04-24T18:34:00.001-04:00

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://uncleao.bandcamp.com/track/merlot-freestyle"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Merlot (Freestyle) by Uncle AO&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

ProducedByAO.com

"Hustle Hard (Freestyle)" - AO of Fresh/High Society

2011-04-12T23:53:00.000-04:00

Download HERE

FreshHighSociety.com

MIXTAPE: "We Are Stardust" by Thrill Collins

2011-04-05T12:25:00.000-04:00

New mixtape from Thrill Collins. Click HERE to download. Check the tracklist after the jump.

What’s Your Name? – Hurricane Jane
Lunar Atrium – P Villa
Feral – Radiohead
Alone – James Pants
Round And Round – Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti
Suns Hula – Monster Rally
Hey Sparrow – Peaking Lights
Cloudlight – Eskmo
I Can’t Wait – Twin Shadow
Oslo In The Summertime – of Montreal
Blasphemous Rumours – Depeche Mode
Time Of My Life (Ceephax Remix) – Patrick Wolf
Unspoken (Anoraak Remix) – Pacific!
What’s Your Name? – Hurricane Jane
5891 – Com Truise
Laughing Hieroglyphic – Avey Tare
Lions In Cages (Memory Tapes Remix) – Wolf Gang
Children of the Revolution (T. Rex Cover) – Neon Indian
Today Is Our Life – Memory Tapes
Burn Bridges – DOM
Julien – Bear Hands
Stilyagi – Puro Instinct
What’s My MF Name? – Thrill Collins
Sweetest Kill – Broken Social Scene
Hanging Onto Every Heartbeat – Cut Copy
A Mind I Knew – Suckers
Machu Picchu – The Strokes
In The Direction Of The Moon – Wolf Parade
Communion – Maximum Balloon / Karen O.
Hurt You – The Sounds
Play It For Today – The Legends
The Suburbs (continued) – Arcade Fire
What’s Your Name? – Hurricane Jane

NEW Fresh/High Society Website

2011-04-03T14:33:00.000-04:00

Check out Fresh/High's new website FreshHighSociety.com and follow them at Twitter.com/FreshHigh.

Google Motion

2011-04-01T20:11:00.002-04:00

Honestly it seems like another way to keep people moving (to stop obesity)... or just a way to free up space on the google server... definitely could be an ill addition to Gmail

Wale x Charity

2011-03-31T17:19:00.002-04:00

Wale loves Foamposites, but he loves supporting the less fortunate even more. The DC rapper recently tweeted a picture of a pile of kicks he's sending of to Nigeria. It's always great to hear about stars giving back.
Props to Nice Kicks

- Live From The iFresh

Timbaland Wins Lawsuit

2011-03-31T08:13:00.002-04:00

Due to an unorthodox Indian copyright law, Timbaland and Game win a lawsuit for allegedly sampling a Bollywood movie.

On Tuesday, The Honorable Judge Jane A. Restani, from Florida’s Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a previous ruling from a lower court in favor of Timbaland. The case was initiated when Saregama India Ltd. filed a suit against Timbaland, Game, Aftermath and Interscope Records alleging Timbaland sampled the 1967 Bollywood song “Baghor Mein Bahar Hai” without permission.

Tim and Game repeatedly looped three notes found in the aforementioned song for the melody of Game’s 2005 single “Put You On The Game.” The case was ultimately decided by finding an unconventional loophole in Indian copyright law.

Essentially, it was irrelevant if Timbaland had permission to use the sample. Bollywood films may have up to two additional copyright holders besides the original publisher, whereas most licensed works do not. Saregama didn’t have standing to bring the lawsuit.

Source: HipHopDX.com

- Live From The iFresh

Swizz x Eve

2011-03-29T02:42:00.001-04:00

Swizz Beatz drops this dope track featuring Eve, “Everyday” which is the first single from his forthcoming album Haute Living.

Download Here

R.I.P Nate Dogg

2011-03-16T12:35:00.000-04:00

Nate Dogg, one of the most recognizable and smooth voices in rap and R & B, died last night.
Nate Dogg suffered from ill health for years. The direct cause of death is not unknown, although it is known that he suffered two strokes, one in 2007 and another in 2008.

He is a true legend in hip hop and set the path for so many others like Akon and T-Pain.
The hook singer first came to national attention on Dr. Dre's 1992 masterpiece "The Chronic." Nate earned the first of four Grammy nominations in 1995 for "Regulate," a collaboration with Warren G. His fourth and most recent nomination came for Eminem's "Shake That" in 2007.

Just a couple of tracks to pay respects to the master of all hooks:

Lupe x L@sers

2011-03-13T12:08:00.000-04:00

Billboard is reporting that the disc will hit # 1 on its Top 200 chart with sales anywhere from 190,000 to 240,000.

The numbers are amazing considering the album doesn't feature a big hit and the troubles Lupe endured trying to get the record on shelves.
Prior to this album, Lupe's highest selling debut was 143,000 with "The Cool" which took the number 15 spot in 2007. His highest previous spot on Bllboard was number 8 with "Food and Liquor" in 2006.

Letter 2 Detroit x Diamond Status

2011-03-13T12:06:00.001-04:00

Eminem can add another notch to his belt as his album, The Eminem Show, was declared diamond.

Eminem has reason to celebrate with the diamond certification of his Grammy Award winning album The Eminem Show; the album has moved over 10 million records in 10 years!

Clinton x Drake

2011-03-13T11:50:00.000-04:00

In a rare combination, former President Bill Clinton will join hip-hop artist Drake for a Hollywood affair.
The Millennium Network in support of the Clinton Foundation are hosting an event March 17, on 6523 Sunset Boulevard from 7-10 p.m. General admission starts at $150, tax deductible, and includes an open bar.

The Honorary Ambassadors of the event's hosting committee include Will Arnett, Kristen Bell, Bradley Cooper, Jamie Foxx, Matthew McConaughey, Amy Poehler and many more
Purchase Your Ticket Here

Santigold x Roc Nation

2011-03-13T11:37:00.000-04:00

Santigold, the eclectic song writer /singer, has joined Jay-Z's Roc Nation management company.
"It's official! Made the change to Roc Nation Management!!!," the singer sent via Twitter.

Santigold, formerly known as Santogold, has worked with Jay-Z in the past, notably on 2009's "Brooklyn We Go Hard."
The singer has not released a new project since her self-titled solo debut in 2008.

I Need A Doctor "Official Video"

2011-02-25T20:17:00.001-05:00

I could be wrong but I think it may be safe to say that "Detox" is finally coming to smack us all in the face for 2011... really praying that it is not a flop after 10+ years of waiting for a new release. Allegedly the albim is actually finished already and it will officially be the last album from the doc

Lagato Shine on MTV 2

2011-02-24T01:10:00.002-05:00

Sucker Free - MTV Shows

As we continue on...

Raekwon x Rick Ross x Ghostface

2011-02-23T20:12:00.000-05:00

Raekwon drops his new album Shaolin Vs. Wu-Tang on March 8th (pre-order here)
The song is produced by Extreme,from No I.D.’s camp.

Stadium Red x Just Blaze

2011-02-23T19:50:00.002-05:00

NEW from Allindstrom.com profiling Just Blaze and his new digs at Rebel Base’s Stadium Red in Harlem (Also home studio to Omen). Just speaks on his old studio, the world renowned Baseline Studios and gives us a breakdown on how his new move to Stadium Red came about. Meanwhile, the grammy-winning producer gives us a behind the scenes tour of the new place he calls home.

Finally Home

2011-02-23T18:20:00.003-05:00

Melo is finally back home in New York... Def trying to get tickets now for tonights game! He will be wearing #7 b/c #15 has been retired for Earl "The Pearl" Monroe... What a lineup with Billups, Melo, And Amare.... Sorry Orlando, Knicks will def be the 3/4 seed in the east this year if the chemistry works out quickly.

- Live From The iFresh

Lagato Shine x MTV Sucker Free Freestyle

2011-02-20T13:48:00.000-05:00

Make sure you check my dude Lagato Shine on MTV 2 tonight around 11. Sucker Free Freestyle movements.

Follow him on Twitter HERE & look out for some new tracks from the both of us sooner than you think.

-AO

Esperanza Spalding

2011-02-19T23:31:00.002-05:00

Despite receiving a major backlash for snatching the Grammy Award for Best New Artist from Drake and Justin Bieber's powerful clutches this past Sunday, Jazz bassist Esperanza Spalding has gained a major ally in the ranks of hip-hop's elite: Q-Tip of A Tribe Called Quest. The legendary producer/rapper has come to the unexpected winner's defense following the Grammys, revealing that not only is he a fan, he's a collaborator.

"I happen 2 b producing esperanza's next Lp," Tip tweeted. "She's a sweet talented woman wish the haters wld be more careful w/ comments."

I just cop'd on ITunes so I can see why she won, most def a good sound

- Live From The iFresh

Dumb Trade

2011-02-18T20:23:00.001-05:00

First off I just want to note that this would be the dumbest trade in the world if it goes through.

Friday morning, ESPN was reporting the Denver Nuggets had reached a tentative agreement with the New Jersey Nets, which would include the trade of forward Carmelo Anthony and point guard Chauncey Billups. According to the report, the Nets would receive Anthony, Billups and forwards Melvin Ely, Shelden Williams and Renaldo Balkman.

In exchange the Nuggets would get guard Devin Harris and forwards Derrick Favors, Troy Murphy and Ben Uzoh. Denver would also receive four first-round draft picks.

- Live From The iFresh

Damon Dash Gets Greedy (Interview by Corey Davis)

2011-02-18T11:18:00.001-05:00

via DD172

MIXTAPE: "Donuts -N- Cheese" by Thrill Collins

2011-02-17T10:08:00.000-05:00

Brand new mixtape from the big homie Thrill Collins. Tracklist & download link after the jump:

Download HERE

What’s Your Name? – Hurricane Jane
All Of The Lights (Interlude) – Kanye West
Kiara - Bonobo
Crime Pays - Bear Hands
Mind Body Mind - Dunian
Last Night At The Jetty - Panda Bear
Slow - Twin Shadow
Disorder - Joy Division
L'estat (Acc. To The Widow's Maid) - Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti
Still Sound - Toro Y Moi
Take Me Over - Cut Copy
King Of The Night - Pacific!
Dreams I Create - Blackbird Blackbird
What’s Your Name – Hurricane Jane
Lovely Bloodflow - Baths
Birds Pt. 2 - Monster Rally
Eyes On Fire (Zed's Dead Remix) - Blue Foundation
Not In Love (Feat. Robert Smith) - Crystal Castles
Third Wave - Work Drugs
Camouflage - Small Black
What's My MF Name? - Thrill Collins
Before Your Birthday Ends - Suckers
What Did My Lover Say? (It Always Had To Go This Way) - Wolf Parade
Gasoline - The Dead Weather
Acid Reign - Violens
Alphaville - Working for a Nuclear Free City
Good For Great - Matt & Kim
Outro - U.N.K.L.E.
What’s Your Name – Hurricane Jane

Pardon My Fresh Music Group Presents: "The Day After"

2011-02-15T14:12:00.000-05:00

Leave Your Hearts on the Floor. Download HERE.

Photography by Soul(er) Activity. Cover design by Lamont Brown.

Legendary Performance

2011-02-15T02:56:00.000-05:00

This was before all of the nonsense people do on stage now to rock a crowd... simply the music and raw energy gets you going!

Happy Birthday AO

2011-02-11T22:36:00.002-05:00

H.B.D to the Chief Exec and Co-Founder of PMF Music Group, AO

AO represents the community of people who refuse to compromise their artistic integrity and he chooses to remain independent and in a position of absolute ownership. The entire world will soon witness the growth of a future great.

Follow @AO_PMF on Twitter.

Click HERE for AO’s Mixtape "115: Art of Ambition"

Snoop Dogg Talks Death Row Days & Producers

2011-02-09T13:01:00.000-05:00

Rather dope.

Kanye x Jay-Z

2011-02-09T02:00:00.001-05:00

On Tuesday (1.11.11), history was made when JAY-Z and Kanye West released their first single “H•A•M” off their collaborative effort Watch The Throne. The single is now available for download on iTunes. Head over to iTunes and go “H•A•M”!

Watch The Throne coming soon…

- Live From The iFresh

Happy Birthday Dilla

2011-02-07T22:39:00.001-05:00

Dilla even after his death is still one of the music industry's most influential individuals in Hip Hop. He is nothing short of a legend and he is truly missed.

A new documentary titled "Still Shining" by Brian Atkins, which was shot the day before his funeral in 2006, was released today featuring many of Dilla's friends & family. Very dope. Check it out after the jump:

"J.Dilla: Still Shining" from B.Kyle on Vimeo.

- Live From The iFresh

Pre-Order Lasers

2011-02-07T13:53:00.001-05:00

Lupe Store

- Live from the iFresh

5 Years Ago...

2011-02-04T13:43:00.001-05:00

Say No More was released on February 16, 2006. I moved somewhere between 800-1000 units independently. So, 5 years later, I figured I'd share 5 of my favorite tracks from this project.

All tracks produced by me. Snapple Fact: Kryptonite was 4th beat I ever made. Came out dope but I'd love to revisit this now.

Click HERE and enjoy,

-AO

Before Roman There Was Roxanne

2011-02-03T02:12:00.000-05:00

27 years ago...14-year-old Lolita Shanté Gooden was walking outside a New York City housing project called Queensbridge, when she heard Tyrone Williams, disc jockey Mr. Magic, and record producer Marley Marl talking about how U.T.F.O. had canceled their appearance at a show they were promoting. Gooden offered to make a hip-hop record that would get back at U.T.F.O, with her taking on the moniker Roxanne Shanté, after her middle name. Marley Marl produced "Roxanne's Revenge." The single was released in late 1984, taking the original beats from an instrumental version of "Roxanne, Roxanne." It was very confrontational and laced with profanities, but was an instant hit that sold over 250,000 copies in the New York area alone.

Lagato Shine - "You're Wrong"

2011-02-02T09:39:00.001-05:00

Brand new music from Lagato Shine. Click HERE to listen. Look out for new collabs with AO coming very soon!

Soul(er) Activity Pic Of The Week: "Ball Up"

2011-02-01T12:53:00.000-05:00

Soul(er) Activity

EVENTS: Kris Graves x Sasha Wolf present David Nadel

2011-02-01T12:33:00.000-05:00

DAVID NADEL

BURNS

February 3 - March 26, 2011

The exhibition will open on Thursday, February 3rd with a reception from 6 to 8 p.m.

Sasha Wolf Gallery, in association with Kris Graves Projects, is proud to announce the first solo exhibition by David Nadel.

David Nadel has spent much of the last four winters photographing the remains of burned down forests in Northwest Montana from the Swan to the Apgar and Whitefish ranges. While hiking up mountains and wandering through trail-less terrain, with his large format camera in tow, Nadel has created a lonely and haunting body of work. Where a dense, green, classically beautiful forest landscape once existed all that is left, post wildfires, are the stark and devastated monument-like remains.

Nadel is drawn to this panorama where no one part of the scene is the clear point of focus and the viewer is asked to surrender to the entire tableau. Although shooting in color, many of these photographs present, on first look, as black and white images and in some cases, as pencil or charcoal drawings. This is not an attempt at neo-pictorialism, Nadel is not trying to obscure the camera's ability to render detail, quite the contrary, it's just that the actual scenes themselves are very bare and extremely graphic; the blackened trees jut out of the white ground like so many black vertical lines and the shadows add their own illustrative elements.

David Nadel was born in Massachusetts, and holds a BFA from Purchase College in visual arts. His work has been exhibited at the Soho Photo Gallery, PIP Pingyap Int'l Photography Festival, and +Kris Graves Projects. He currently lives and photographs in Montana.

Sasha Wolf Gallery
548 West 28th Street, New York, NY
212.925.0025 info@sashawolf.com sashawolf.com

Gallery Hours:
Tuesday-Saturday 11 to 6 PM and by appointment

DJ Kool Herc

2011-01-31T12:07:00.001-05:00

According to a statement made by DJ Premier on his Sirius XM satellite radio show, 'Live From HeadQCourterz,' hip-hop legend DJ Kool Herc has been hospitalized and is in need of financial support. While there's no specific details on Herc's illness, Premier claims that the hip-hop veteran's condition is deteriorating, and that he's without medical insurance.
Donations for Kool Herc can be sent to: Kool Herc Production, P.O. Box 20472, Huntington Station, NY 11746.

Today's iTunes Purchases

2011-01-29T13:27:00.000-05:00

Ms Lauryn Hill Returns to NYC

2011-01-28T13:44:00.000-05:00

February 1,2011

Concert starts @ 11PM
Doors open @ 8PM

@ Highline Ballroom
Located at 431 W 16th St
New York, NY 10011
between 9th and 10th Ave
(212) 414-5994

Hip-hop queen and international soul sensation Lauryn Hill is an ‘artist’ of the truest type, inspiring millions as a singer, songwriter, rapper, producer, musician and film actress. Born in South Orange, New Jersey, Hill early established herself as one of music’s most brilliant vocalists while performing in The Fugees, with songs such as “Killing Me Softly with His Song” solidifying the singer’s worldwide acclaim. Her incredible career as a solo artist began in 1998 with the release of her six-time platinum The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, a neo soul masterpiece which by the end of the year topped virtually every “best of” list in the industry and took home a staggering five Grammy Awards - Album of the Year, Best New Artist, Best Female R&B Vocal Performance, Best R&B Song ("Doo Wop (That Thing)") and Best R&B Album - establishing Lauryn Hill as the first woman to ever win five of the awards in a single year.

Troy Ave - "New York State Of Mind"

2011-01-25T15:28:00.001-05:00

Spotted this over at Nah Right. Definitely would like to hear more stuff with this vibe from the homie Troy. Tough. Download HERE.

Nas - TDK Chronicles

2011-01-18T11:03:00.005-05:00

YESSSS. This was my life from Elementary through High School. I still have all of my old tapes. I remember I used to plan my day around Flex's show. DJ Clue came on the radio on Monday nights with the Monday Night Mixtape. I think Green Lantern was on Wednesday's for a time. Kay Slay on Thursdays.

Just off the top of my head, I remember the 1st night Fabolous was on the radio when he freestyled with N.O.R.E. I hope I still have that on tape.

I have a Mr. Cee tribute tape for Biggie. 2 sides. To this day, whenever I have writer's block I put that tape on.

Such a shame that the radio is so watered down now.

Check out more of these mini documentaries at TDKHiFi.com

Bonus mixtape after the jump: Cookin' Soul & Don Cannon present: Nas - "The Lost Tapes 1.5"

Download HERE

Jet Life Blazers

2011-01-18T10:46:00.001-05:00

Jet Life. Now these are just ill. Only 5 were made at $350 a pop. Shop at JBF Customs. Shouts to Spitta. Props to Nice Kicks. More after the jump.

'Cause I Feel Like It: Random Just Blaze Songs

2011-01-16T23:56:00.000-05:00

So, Just Blaze is one of my top (insert number here) producers and I felt like posting a few tracks. That is all.

Again, very random selections, but they're all mean. And these are just songs that have videos shot to them. I might actually put a zip together w/ the REALLY dope shit. Salute to Mr. Justin Smith.

'Cause I Feel Like It: Nas - "One Mic"

2011-01-14T23:20:00.000-05:00

Got the idea from YHTN. Shit's still mean. There needs to be more Nas posts on this site.

Soul(er) Activity Pic Of The Week: "Open Your Mind"

2011-01-13T09:45:00.001-05:00

Soul(er) Activity

DEMOS: An Independent Artist's Guide To Success [Official Trailer]

2011-01-11T12:12:00.000-05:00

Shouts to Kevin Nottingham & Kareem Fort for this. Drops Summer 2011.

More info HERE.

Mylon x AO Studio Session Clip

2011-01-10T12:01:00.001-05:00

Quick minute snippet from a session this weekend.

DJ Laser x Nerd At The Cool Table x Hovain - "JETS, Planes & Maybachs" (Mixtape)

2011-01-09T03:46:00.000-05:00

My brother DJ Laser just released the long awaited Curren$y, Wiz Khalifa & Rick Ross mixtape, along with Nerd At The Cool Table & Hovain. Shit's hot, I recommend. Track list & download link after the jump:

Download HERE

"Just For Kicks" Stop Motion Video

2011-01-05T12:10:00.000-05:00

Just For Kicks from Thelonious Martin on Vimeo.

Same name as this classic doc. Can't wait to see the complete product.

Props to Nice Kicks.

J. Dilla's "Donuts" Performed by Stray Phrases

2011-01-04T23:08:00.001-05:00

Rather dope. Stray Phrases, a jazz trio (Storm Siegel on drums, Dave Mainella on piano, and Evan Crane on bass), performed the entire Donuts track list on October 17, 2010. You might want to download this HERE.

Shouts to iStandard, Kevin Nottingham & Metal Lungies.

Nothing Fresh About This: "This Is Mixxie"

2011-01-03T16:00:00.000-05:00

HAA...It's mixxie to pour liqs on your bedroom floor. I'm not mixxie...You shouldn't be either...

Fully Loaded - "Limelight"

2011-01-03T12:20:00.000-05:00

The new double CD Caesar Of The City/Charlemagne featuring Babs, Oschino & Trey Songz is dropping soon...Stay tuned.

Follow on Twitter HERE.

Official " Monster " Video -Kanye

2011-01-03T01:18:00.000-05:00

The Aftermath of a PMF Keg Party

2011-01-01T16:57:00.001-05:00

- AO, Live From The Mobile

The Teddy Bare Chronicles

2010-12-30T23:10:00.000-05:00

Let's cut to the chase: this shit is ILL. Brand new 2011 calender from Soul(er) Activity Photography. You need this. Click HERE to order yours.

Nottz Raw & Asher Roth - "Rawth EP"

2010-12-27T22:23:00.000-05:00

In my opinion, a late contender for a 2010 favorite. Check the post-jump for the download link & back cover.

Download HERE or HERE.

President Obama: Two Years of Progress

2010-12-27T13:40:00.000-05:00

It still baffles me when people say President Obama hasn't accomplished many of the things he aimed to during his campaign. Still 2 years left in his term & I will continue to support him & his administration.

Rest In Peace Teena Marie

2010-12-26T21:04:00.000-05:00

1956-2010

PMF Announcement

2010-12-26T18:55:00.000-05:00