"After announcing the closing of their New York and Los Angeles locations, Fat Beats is excited to present a send-off worthy of their hip-hop legacy. A week-long series of in-store performances and music industry panels at both stores will allow the music community to not only learn about the history of Fat Beats and what the future of the music industry holds, but to also celebrate the legacy of one of the strongest music brands in the company of their favorite artists. These week-long in-stores are sure to go down in hip-hop and New York history. Everyone is welcome to come and all events are free.

Today marks the official start of the week-long in-stores for the New York location. This location will host artist performances every day this week from 4-9pm until it closes its doors for the final time on Saturday, September 4th, 2010. Additionally, both locations will be selling limited edition commemorative t-shirts, as well as discounted music and merchandise"

Continue reading "free in-stores all week @ Fat Beats (leading up to closing)"

by Black Bubblegum

DOWNLOAD: Skyzoo - "Popularity" (MP3)
DOWNLOAD: KRS-One & Buckshot - "Survival Skills" (MP3)

Buckshot at Nokia Theater (more by Tim Griffin)

With Buckshot and KRS-One's collaborative LP Survival Skills still making some noise, Duck Down Records have announced their CMJ Showcase at Gramercy on 10/24 featuring 9th Wonder, Buckshot, Smif 'n Wessun, Skyzoo, kidz in the hall, Sean Price, Marco Polo & Torae, Team Facelift, Da Beatminerz, Ruste Juxx, and Blue Scholars. Tickets are on sale, or you can try and get in with your CMJ badge if you have one.

Skyzoo & 9th Wonder played Santos Party House on Tuesday (9/29) as part of an album release party for Skyzoo's The Salvation.

"Skyzoo had a real dope performance with Dujeous as his live band and 9th Wonder on the 1's and 2's. Daru opened up with his amazing drum solo and J hatch was the host. Rule4080 was in the building peep the flicks and yes that is 9th Wonder in red lol" [Rule480]

Continue reading "Duck Down doing CMJ (tix), Skyzoo record out now (MP3)"

by Black Bubblegum

A crew of hip-hop notables are gathering for a worthy cause, to help "spread the word that thousands of 9/11 first responders are sick and dying and need our help". Headliner Talib Kweli will join Dead Prez, revolutionary Immortal Technique, Mr. "The Greatest Story Never Told" Coming Soon aka Saigon, beatsmiths Da Beatminerz, Chip Fu (of the Fu-Schnickens), Dub Rock All Stars (ex-Da Bush Babees - "Remember we"? ), Loer Velocity, Mr. Green of Channel Live (performing? I thought all he does is spark mad Izm?), Messiah, Tiye Phoenix, and Scanz at The Madison (27 W 24th St, between Broadway and 6th) on Friday night (9/12).

Tickets are still available. If you can't make it but would still like to help, you can help by donating to this worthy cause.

Talib Kweli is also part of the upcoming Hip Hop Live tour and recently played Rock The Bells.

Evil Dee of Da Beatminerz and Black Moon will play the classic Enta Da Stage at an upcoming show at the Knitting Factory.