Snoop Dogg – Sittin On Blades (Prod. by DJ Battlecat)

Snoopy and Battlecat bring you this smooth cut off the “Streets 2 Tha Suites” album.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/audio/2021/05/snoop-dogg-sittin-on-blades-prod-by-dj-battlecat/

Honor Flow Productions Returns With “Cruise Control”

L.A.’s Honor Flow Productions prepares the Summertime nights mood with “Cruise Control”.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/audio/2021/05/honor-flow-productions-returns-with-cruise-control/

WCS Exclusive Interview: Ras Kass Is Ready To Unleash The HRSMN On The World & More

Ras Kass is one of the most respected lyricists in the world. From Soul On Ice to Rasassination to Van Gogh and beyond, his lyrics and music has made him a God emcee in this business. In this exclusive interview, Ras Kass opens up about his beginnings, development, record company plagues, work with Dr. Dre and the upcoming June release of the highly anticipated HRSMN album with fellow emcees Kurupt, Killah Priest and Canibus.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/interviews/2021/05/wcs-exclusive-ras-kass-is-ready-to-unleash-the-hrsmn-on-the-world/

Ras Kass Announces HRSMN Album “The Last Ride” With Kurupt, Killah Priest & Canibus

Yesterday, Ras Kass took to Instagram to announce the HRSMN group album, The Last Ride, which reunites him with Kurupt, Killah Priest, and Canibus.

The supergroup formed in the early 2000’s and delivered The Horsemen Project in 2003. The new album is set to arrive on June 18th. Although little is known about the upcoming project, it’s suffice to say that we can expect expert lyricism from the quartet.

Check out the Instagram post from Ras Kass announcing The Last Ride below:

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/ras-kass-announces-hrsmn-album-the-last-ride-with-kurupt-killah-priest-canibus/

1Take Ocho, Griff Tyler & Xian Bell Team Up For New “Love” Song

Los Angeles continues to pump out nre talent as 1Take Ocho recruits Griff Tyler and Xian Bell for this hot new track “Love”. Check out the vid.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2021/05/1take-ocho-griff-tyler-xian-bell-team-up-for-new-love-song/

Blxst and Bino Rideaux Team Up For New Track “Movie”

Two of Los Angeles’ hottest new names Blxst and Bino Rideaux, team up for this hot new track “Movie”.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/audio/2021/05/blxst-and-bino-rideaux-team-up-for-new-track-movie/

WCS Exclusive: Dance Legend Tommy The Clown Continues His Work With The L.A. Youth

Tommy the Clown’s story was documented in the David LaChapelle movie “Rize” which highlighted the krump dance craze that he created and the kids who were involved. That was in 2005 and now 16 years later the movement is still alive as Tommy has partnered with one of the hottest entertainment streaming apps Caffeine to present the Battlefield Qualifiers where dancers battle for the top title. WestCoastStyles.com caught up with the dance legend to get the full story on this new venture and the continuation of his dance work with the youth of Loss Angeles.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/interviews/2021/05/wcs-exclusive-dance-legend-tommy-the-clown-continues-his-work-with-the-l-a-youth/

Rolling Loud Returns to LA With A Monster Lineup

Hip Hop’s largest festival is back in the city of angels. With the world opening back up it means live music shows are coming back everywhere and the team at Rolling Loud is coming back to LA with a huge bang. Wide a wide variety of performers ranging from Future, J. Cole, Kid Cudi, Jack Harlow, Blxst, Tyga, Duke Deuce, & more. This will be a huge weekend in Hip Hop in the SoCal area so make sure you are ready when tickets go on sale Tuesday June 1st at 12PM PST. Check out the full line up for the event below. Rolling Loud LA will take place from the NOS Event Center in the I.E. from December 10-12.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/concerts/2021/05/rolling-loud-returns-to-la-with-a-monster-lineup/

Too $hort Premieres New Visual

West Coast legend Too $hort dropped a video for his new song “F**k Yo Speakers” today on YouTube and the premiere had fans excited as usual for some new music from short. Check out the video at the link below.

 

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/too-hort-premieres-new-visual/

Snoop Dogg Hinting At Possible Reunion With Tha Eastsidaz

Snoop Dogg posted a photo earlier this week to his Instagram account showing him, Goldie Loc, and Tray Deee standing together in front of a green screen, with the caption reading: “E sidaz. Come back.”

In the early 2000’s Tha Eastsidaz dropped two albums, Tha Eastsidaz and Duces ‘n Trayz: The Old Fashioned Way. The group’s first album debuted at number 8 on the US Billboard 200, selling 100,000 copies in its first week going platinum, with the Battlecat -produced single “G’d Up” featuring Butch Cassidy. Tha Eastsidaz featured a litany of the West Coast’s finest like Dr. Dre, Nate Dogg, CPO Boss Hogg, Warren G, Rappin’ 4-Tay, Kokane, and Xzibit to name a few.

Check out the Instagram post from Snoop Doog with Goldie Loc and Tray Deee below:

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/snoop-dogg-hinting-at-possible-reunion-with-tha-eastsidaz/

ProHoeZak Preps New Album Featuring Too Short On Upcoming “Break Dat Trick” Song

ProHoeZak, the multi-faceted producer behind recent hits from Too Short (“Ain’t Gone Do It”), Snoop Dogg (“Roaches In My Ashtray”, “Say It Witcha Booty”), and E-40 (“19 Dolla Lapdance”), is prepping an upcoming album.

A track set to be released from the as-of-yet untitled project is called “Break Dat Trick” featuring Too Short alongside the East Palo Alto producer.

In an exclusive private sneak-peek listen provided to Chad Kiser, the song begins with Too Short kicking of his verse in true Shorty the Pimp fashion with, “She’ll do anything, and I’m a let her/make it better, make that pussy wetter/You been paying these hoes forever/I’ma put her on the street corner, fuck the weather”.

The Mount Westmore producer not only provides the beat, but he also does the hook and steps up to the plate with his own verse as he raps, “Look bitch, there’s a pandemic/I mean break dat trick for his whole damn stimulus/he got money to burn, let him burn it/and if he want that pussy make him earn it”.

Be on the lookout for ProHoeZak and Too Short’s “Break Dat Trick” dropping soon!

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/prohoezak-preps-new-album-featuring-too-short-on-upcoming-break-dat-trick-song/

Tommy the Clown Teams with the Caffeine TV for the Battlefield Qualifiers

Los Angeles and street dancing legend Tommy the Clown has teamed up with Caffeine TV to present the Battlefield Qualifiers dance competition. As documented in the movie Rize, Tommy the Clown created the clown/krumping style of dance that provided an outlet for many inner-city kids to partake in and give an alternative to gangs and violence. Tommy is also known for holding huge Battlezone dance tournaments with musical guests such as Snoop Dogg and other Los Angeles acts and for providing clown entertainment at birthday parties for children across the city.

The first Battlefield Qualifier event took place on May 16th featured 40 dancers from 4 fields of which 32 advanced to the 2nd round which is taking place on May 30th. Below are some of the highlights from the 1st round:

The Battlefield Qualifiers

Pierre vs. Twinz heating up

The first of the Kings showing up and showing off

And more competitors highlighted from Tommy The Clown himself

You can watch Caffeine TV HERE!

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/tommy-the-clown-teams-with-caffeine-tv-for-the-battlefield-qualifiers/

‘Tupac Assassination’ Creator Executive Produces Broomfield’s ‘Last Man Standing’

Famed Director Nick Broomfield Teams with RJ Bond for Explosive New Documentary

Los Angeles CA – 20 Years Later, acclaimed documentary filmmaker Nick Broomfield (“Kurt and Courtney”, “Biggie and Tupac”) revisits his groundbreaking documentary exploring the murders of Tupac Shakur and Christopher “Biggie Smalls” Wallace with the 2021 feature film “Last Man Standing: Suge Knight and the Murders of Tupac Shakur and Christopher Wallace”- the definitive story of former rap mogul Suge Knight, the murders of Biggie & Tupac, and the LAPD officers who buried the truth. The film will receive its World Premiere on June 30th with a special one night only nationwide pre-recorded Q&A with Director Nick Broomfield hosted by Trevor Nelson, before receiving its general release on July 2nd in theaters and later on streaming services.

This time, however, the noted director tapped “Tupac Assassination” series filmmaker Richard “RJ” Bond to serve as Executive Producer on the project. Bond’s 15 year investigation- spawning 4 Documentaries and a national Podcast of his own on the subject matter- helped provide Broomfield and his staff a running start in identifying significant events the 20 year span since Broomfield’s first foray into the subject matter “Biggie and Tupac” (2001). Bond’s editorial knowledge was a natural blend with Broomfield, and the two have created a riveting and haunting look at where the investigations are, and the multiple competing theories regarding the likelihood of the Los Angeles Police’ possible involvement and potential subsequent cover-up of the Wallace killing in Los Angeles in 1997.

“Nick and I have had a really great time both looking at new information out there,” said Bond.

“So many people have been more willing to talk since Knight’s incarceration for killing Terry Carter. But it was also fascinating for me to look at footage Nick shot 20 years ago, which have taken on an entirely new meaning today- especially when it may not have resonated back then, when we did not know as much..”

Suge Knight, the former CEO of legendary rap music label Death Row Records was recently sentenced to 28 years imprisonment for manslaughter in a long line of violent crimes not typically associated with a highly successful record executive. This film takes a look at Death Row and how L.A.’s street gang culture had come to dominate its business workings as well as an association with corrupt LA police officers who were also gang affiliated. It would be this world of gang rivalry and dirty cops that would claim the lives of the world’s two greatest rappers, Tupac Shakur and Biggie Smalls. People have only now started talking since Suge commenced his 28-year sentence and the film comes up with new evidence showing the involvement of the LAPD in these murders and their attempt to conceal evidence…

Broomfield, the recipient of the prestigious Sundance First Prize, British Academy Award, Prix Italia, Dupont Peabody Award, Grierson Award, Hague Peace Prize and Amnesty International Doen award added, “After finishing Biggie & Tupac in 2002 I became increasingly troubled by the treatment of LAPD detective Russell Poole who had come up with evidence that LAPD officers were involved in the hit on Biggie Smalls.

“Russell was vilified by the LAPD and over the years I watched as his health and wellbeing declined. In August 2015 Russell died of a massive heart attack during a meeting at the LA Sheriff’s headquarters where he was still arguing his theory of the Biggie Smalls murder. It was a tragic end that Russell didn’t deserve, however a few years later people started talking more freely after Suge Knight (whom Russell accused of commissioning the hit) was sentenced to 28 years in prison in 2018.

“I believed in Russell and I believed in his theory, and people who had never spoken before, who didn’t know Russell Poole, came forward with new evidence never heard before that supports his allegations that LAPD officers were involved.”

Bond concluded: “Much noise has been added by former L.A.P.D. cops that has worked to cloud the simple facts pertaining to the shooting of Wallace. Some have come out and flatly denied  L.A.P.D. had anything to do with the shootings, to the point of claiming no one from L.A.P.D. was even at the Peterson Museum the night of the shooting. We put an end to that notion once and for all.”

 

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/tupac-assassination-creator-executive-produces-broomfields-last-man-standing/

$hort Stories: Too Short Details Recording Session With Dr. Dre

In this week’s episode of $hort Stories with Too Short, he discusses the details of the recording session he did with mega-producer Dr. Dre for a song intended for Detox, and describes what it’s like working with Dr. Dre and how meticulous the producer can be to work with.

Too Short began the segment by saying, “If you ever get chance to do a session where Dr. Dre is producing you, I highly recommend it.”

The Oakland legend then recounts how Snoop Dogg gave him the advice to do whatever Dre tells him to do, and that the producer would break him down, but to just do it. Short ends the segment by saying that Detox had about 200 songs recorded. “I heard a lot of Detox songs, and the shit sounded great”.

Check out the latest episode of $hort Stories with Too Short below:

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/hort-stories-too-short-details-recording-session-with-dr-dre/

Drakeo The Ruler Returns To LA With A Fall Tour

With LA County and the rest of Southern California opening up and lifting Covid 19 restrictions this summer the tours are starting to roll out, and LA’s own Drakeo The Ruler announced his fall tour starting in September hitting the greater Southern California area. Tickets go on sale Tuesday May 25th at 10 am.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/drakeo-the-ruler-returns-to-la-with-a-fall-tour/

Dann G Drops “Cabo Vibes” Featuring Alexcis & Megawatts

Phoenix, Arizona rapper Dann G drops his new single, “Cabo Vibes”, featuring Alexcis & Megawatts, off the Galvez the Great album. During the halftime show of the Phoenix Suns / Los Angeles Lakers NBA playoffs game, he performed “Cabo Vibes”, as well as premiered another new song, “Rally the Valley,” which is an anthem for the Suns.

Dann G has released four albums: G60, Jesus, Luna, and Galvez the Great, which reached the number one spot on the iTunes Latin chart. Dann has worked with industry icons like Ant Banks, who produced the 2019 single “Special Lady”, and he’s shared the stage with artists including Migos, Marshmello, Dillon Francis, and Alesso.

Check out Dann G’s “Cabo Vibes” below:

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/dann-g-drops-cabo-vibes-featuring-alexcis-megawatts/

Indie Spotlight: Charley Goo pushes forward with second visual “Manuever” feat Kujo Redd and Yog Westwood

Charley Goo connects with some of Arizona’s finest. Kujo Redd and Yog Westwood, on this new visual “Manuever”  

@Follow the artist

@charley_goo

yogwestwood

source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2021/05/indie-spotlight-charley-goo-pushes-forward-with-second-visual-manuever-feat-kujo-redd-and-yog-westwood/

Too Short Announces New “Don’t Stop Rappin” Weekly Show On Rock The Bells Radio

Iconic and pioneering West Coast rapper Too Shortjust announced his new, weekly show Don’t Stop Rappin’ on Rock The Bells Radio.

The Mount Westmore supergroup member took to Instagram to announce the new endeavor, which will have new episodes on Mondays at 2pm EST.

Check out the announcement from Too Short below:

 

 

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/too-short-announces-new-dont-stop-rappin-weekly-show-on-rock-the-bells-radio/

Kurupt & Daz Prep New Dogg Pound Record “Bottom Bitch” (Prod. Fredwreck)

West Coast iconic duo Kurupt & Daz of the Dogg Pound took to Instagram to show they have a new Fredwreck-produced record on the way with “Bottom Bitch”.

Recently, Kurupt previewed a handful of tracks off the upcoming DPG4Life album, which featured Daz, Kurupt, Snoop Dogg, and frequent collaborator Kokane in the snippets.

In the video, Kurupt is asserts that it’s “some of that classic DPG shit, some new DPG shit. You’re going to love it.”

Check out the Instagram post below:

 

 

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/kurupt-daz-prep-new-dogg-pound-record-bottom-bitch-prod-fredwreck/

Saturday, June 12: ‘The Art of Rap’ Live in Michigan

In 2012, Hip-Hop icon Ice-T directed and executive produced the critically acclaimed documentary, Something from Nothing: The Art of Rap.  Nine years later, The Art of Rap has become a brand itself that preserves and provides a platform for an era of emcees from a generation that is sadly now ignored by the mainstream.

Fortunately, with live performances beginning to open up again as health restrictions are starting to lift from the Covid-19 pandemic, The Art of Rap is one show that makes the most of the opportunity to perform live music again.

As recently discussed in his interview with West Coast Styles, Ice-T mentions that an Art of Rap show is less than a month away in the Mitten State.  Check the flyer below for additional information!

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/saturday-june-12-the-art-of-rap-live-in-michigan/

Universal Hip-Hop Museum Breaks Ground at Bronx Point

NEW YORK (May 21, 2021) — Mayor Bill de Blasio, Hip Hop legends Nas, LL Cool J, Fat Joe, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., New York State Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, City Council Member Diana Ayala, numerous city agencies, and hip hop luminaries took part in the official groundbreaking event for the first phase of Bronx Point. The event took place on Thursday, May 20, at the future home of Bronx Point at 50 East 150th Street in The Bronx.

The much-anticipated $349 million mixed-use project along the Harlem River waterfront in the South Bronx is being developed by L+M Development Partners and Type A Projects, who co-hosted the groundbreaking ceremony.

Bronx Point’s first phase will deliver 542 units of permanently affordable housing to the Lower Concourse neighborhood, along with approximately 2.8 acres of public open space. Additionally, the project will deliver an array of cultural and community-focused programming, including the permanent home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum, an early childhood space run by BronxWorks, and outdoor science programming run by the Billion Oyster Project. S9 Architecture led the design of the 22-story project, and the open space was designed by Marvel Architects in collaboration with Abel Bainnson Butz. Phase one of Bronx Point is expected to be completed by late 2023.

The event also served as the official launch of the Universal Hip Hop Museum’s capital campaign. The UHHM will celebrate and preserve the history of local and global Hip Hop music and culture past, present, and future, and is slated to open in Bronx Point in 2024. At the groundbreaking, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. announced that he would contribute $4.2 million from his office’s capital budget to support the Universal Hip Hop Museum’s capital campaign, which is one of the largest single funding allocations of the borough president’s tenure.

“New York City is building a recovery for all of us, and that starts with transformative projects like Bronx Point in the heart of the Bronx,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “From major investments in affordable housing to a permanent place to celebrate the music that has made the Bronx famous around the world, this project demonstrates what every real New Yorker already knows: there’s no stopping New York City.”

“Bronx Point is a complete reimagining of a dormant, underutilized piece of waterfront property that will create new affordable housing and long-anticipated amenities for the entire borough to enjoy, and I am proud to be a part of it,” said Ron Moelis, CEO and Co-Founder of L+M Development Partners. “The project will provide new open space with access to the Harlem River, a permanent home for the Universal Hip Hop Museum, and community programming with Bronxworks and the Billion Oyster Project. Bronx Point represents the best type of development a public-private partnership can offer our city, and I am thrilled that we have taken the first step towards enacting our vision for this project.”

“This groundbreaking at Bronx Point represents the culmination of deep partnerships and collaboration with the community, local elected officials, and city agencies,” said Ann Tirschwell, Partner at Type A Projects. “In particular, our work with the members and leadership of Community Board 4 has been uniquely formative.  After more than two years of programming discussions, design charrettes, and planning sessions we have started construction on a new purpose-built open space for the residents of the South Bronx.  With the delivery of this collaborative and award-winning design, we hope to provide more equitable access to the waterfront for all New Yorkers, regardless of zip code.”

“The groundbreaking for the first phase of Bronx Point is a tremendous step forward for our borough. Not only will this project create much-needed affordable housing units, but it will also activate underutilized space, open up more waterfront to public access, create new public spaces and retail amenities for community use. This development will combine two of my favorite things, history, and hip hop, bringing the Universal Hip Hop Museum to its rightful location in the birthplace of hip hop, The Bronx,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “Hip hop was born in The Bronx, and the inclusion of the Universal Hip Hop Museum as a part of this project will help showcase our role in the creation of that worldwide cultural movement for generations to come. That is why I was proud to announce that I am providing $4.2 million in capital funds to help make this project a reality.”

“Yesterday’s Bronx Point groundbreaking ceremony marks a win for the diverse, growing community of the Bronx,” said New York State Assembly Speaker Carl E. Heastie. “Upon its completion, Bronx Point will become a cultural hub, providing Bronxites with new affordable housing, wellness, and cultural activity opportunities that I know will enrich the lives of many. I am elated to be able to witness this amazing project and would like to thank L+M Development Partners, Type A Projects, BronxWorks, as well as all of the elected officials and community leaders that assisted in moving this project forward. Investments to neighborhoods in the Bronx are investments to the growth and future of our great city.”

“The Bronx is the birthplace of hip hop so it’s fitting that the borough will house a museum dedicated to this legendary music and movement,” said City Council Speaker Corey Johnson. “But Bronx Point will be so much more than a world-famous tourist destination, it will offer our city much-needed affordable housing as well as space for early childhood and science programming. The City Council proudly supports this project, which will add to the vibrancy of the Bronx while it is addressing long-standing housing needs.”

“Yesterday marked a major step towards advancing the administration’s key investments in the South Bronx,” said Rachel Loeb, President, and CEO of New York City Economic Development Corporation. “By bringing affordable housing, waterfront access, and a range of cultural facilities including the City’s first Hop Hop Museum, we are creating a more equitable New York. We are proud to break ground on the BronxPoint to bring these much-needed community benefits to the South Bronx.”

“Today we celebrate the start of a tremendous project that will change so many lives for the better. More than 500 households, including formerly homeless New Yorkers, will have safe, affordable homes to call their own, as well as access to amazing open space and high-quality cultural and educational programming,” said HPD Commissioner Louise Carroll. “Thanks to L+M, Type A, the Universal Hip Hop Museum, and all of our development partners for making this culturally significant development possible that will anchor the community for years to come.”

“I was delighted to participate in yesterday’s groundbreaking event for the first phase of the Bronx Point project.  Bronx Point will bring much-needed affordable housing and community space to the South Bronx, including waterfront access for a community that has for too long been cut off from the Harlem River and a permanent home for the Universal Hip Hop Museum”, said Council Member Diana Ayala. “I am thrilled to see this mixed-used permanently affordable housing project finally getting started and congratulate L+M Development Partners, Type A projects and their partners as well as the Universal Hip Hop Museum on this transformative South Bronx project along the Harlem River waterfront.”

“New York State is proud to support the Universal Hip Hop Museum in the Bronx, the birthplace of the Hip Hop movement,” said ESD Acting Commissioner and President & CEO-designate Eric Gertler. The museum’s modern, dynamic home will celebrate the artists and preserve the music that represented a new — and uniquely New York — sound that has become a cultural force across the globe and influenced generations of performers.  Once completed, this new museum, reflecting the diversity of New York, will no doubt be a draw for residents and visitors to the Bronx and also serve as a hub for educational and local economic growth.”

“Hip Hop music and culture has been a source of inspiration and innovation since its outset,” said Brad Smith, President of Microsoft. “We’re incredibly excited for the museum’s groundbreaking and look forward to using Microsoft technology to help document, preserve, and tell the story of Hip Hop when the doors officially open.”

“The heartbeat of Hip Hop culture will live at Bronx Point, the future home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum,” said Rocky Bucano, Executive Director of the Universal Hip Hop Museum. “Documenting, preserving, and presenting the history of the culture for generations of Hip Hop lovers globally via exciting new tech innovations from Microsoft is thrilling. This partnership is truly a milestone for Hip Hop culture.”

“Bronx Point is a dynamic project that will serve its residents with permanently affordable housing, expansive cultural and community programming, and extensive outdoor green space,” said HDC President Eric Enderlin. “In addition to the 542 homes serving families across a wide range of incomes, including the formerly homeless, we also celebrate what will be the future home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum. I would like to extend my congratulations to all our partners for their efforts, which will benefit the Lower Concourse neighborhood for years to come.”

“Hip hop has become a global art form, but it could have only started right here in the Bronx,” said NYC Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner Gonzalo Casals. “The diversity of New York City and the vitality of the communities of color in the South Bronx gave rise to Hip Hop, and made it into a powerful form of expression. It’s fitting that we honor that legacy here with the Universal Hip Hop Museum, which we’re proud to support as part of this major new development.”

“We are thrilled to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Universal Hip Hop Museum in the Bronx, the birthplace of one of the most influential musical and cultural movements in the world,” said the NYC Commissioner of the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment, Anne del Castillo. “The museum will serve as an important reminder of the artists, community, and creativity that define our city as the creative capital of the world.”

“BronxWorks is proud to be a partner in the Bronx Point development, which represents an innovative and thoughtful approach to affordable housing in a community that needs it,” said Eileen Torres, Executive Director, BronxWorks. “As we look to improve economic stability in the neighborhood, especially after the crises created by the pandemic, the Bronx Point development offers a path forward for families, who will be able to afford their rent and access support services and childcare on site.”

“We are excited that Bronx Point will provide the community with welcoming spaces for a variety of activities, while also creating a waterfront landscape that prioritizes ecology and learning,” said Yadiel Rivera-Diaz PLA, ASLA, Partner at Marvel. “We engaged with various members of the community on more than 20 occasions to learn and better understand the needs of residents and businesses; their valuable feedback informed our design, which includes spaces for learning, areas for exercising and activity, a picnic section, and an area for children to play and explore. As shaped by public input, Bronx Point creates a strong link between the community and waterfront.”

“S9 Architecture tapped into the rhythm and movement of the site and the street to make the Bronx Point project both an anchor and a gateway to the neighborhood,” said John Clifford, founding Principal, S9 Architecture. “Our design not only reflects the dynamic energy of the neighborhood and urban context, but it also provides vital housing, cultural, public waterfront park and commercial assets to the community.”

“As part of the Bronx Point project, brand new green space will be added for the enjoyment of the entire community, further complementing Mill Pond Park,” said NYC Parks Bronx Borough Commissioner Iris Rodriguez-Rosa. “I would like to thank all of our partners for this wonderful park expansion which will be a hub of rest, relaxation, and recreation for decades to come!”

“Wells Fargo is pleased to be part of this historic project which will revitalize the South Bronx neighborhood and address the affordable housing needs of its residents,” said Page W. Travelstead, Managing Director of Community Lending & Investment at Wells Fargo. “We are proud to work closely with L&M Development Partners and Type A Projects on financing Bronx Point and are excited to see how the new housing units, retail space, and Universal Hip Hop Museum will spark economic development in the Bronx Waterfront area.”

“Yesterday we broke ground on a project that has the potential to transform the gateway to the South Bronx,” said Paul A. Philps, District Manager of Bronx Community Board #4. Bronx Point not only includes the activation of our waterfront with new affordable housing, expanded open space at Mill Pond Park, and the future home of the Universal Hip Hop Museum, but it represents hope and a bright future for area residents. We are excited to see this critical project move into the first phase of development.

Bronx Point is located on City-owned land and is being financed through a combination of public and private capital, including financing from the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), the New York City Housing Development Corporation (HDC), Empire State Development, Wells Fargo, and additional private funding. The overall funding includes $323.5 million for the building, along with $27 million for the waterfront esplanade’s construction from the NYCEDC.

In Phase One, Bronx Point’s apartments will be available for families earning between 30 percent to 120 percent of Area Median Income, along with apartments for the formerly homeless. Apartments will include 135 studios, 192 one-bedrooms, 122 two-bedrooms, and 93 three-bedrooms. Tenant amenities will feature an outdoor terrace for residents, on-site laundry, a children’s room, community lounge, bike storage room, on-site fitness center, and around-the-clock front desk security. The project’s second phase is anticipated to include additional housing units along with additional retail and community space. When complete, Bronx Point will include up to 1,045 apartment units.

Public space is also a central feature of Bronx Point. A grand staircase, designed to be a civic gathering space for the borough, will lead from the building itself down to the waterfront. The open space, across from Bronx Terminal Market, will feature a playground and landscaped area adjacent to the existing Mill Pond Park and the Bronx Children’s Museum to the north. An esplanade along the Harlem River shoreline will include a landscaped public walkway and seating areas. The space will also feature lawns, waterfront lookouts, an extended BBQ area, fitness zones for adults, and publicly accessible bathrooms. Collectively, these open space improvements will advance the City and community’s long-standing goal of providing access to the Harlem River waterfront and increasing public open space in the South Bronx.

Bronx Point will also include several spaces for youth and community programming and education. Development partner BronxWorks, a venerable Bronx social service provider, will provide supportive services for tenants on the site and operate an early childhood center. At the same time, the Billion Oyster Project will run an outdoor education program that utilizes the Harlem River. In all, the 530,000 square foot-Bronx Point will include more than 56,000 square feet of educational and community space, along with more than 12,000 square feet of retail space. The Prusik Group, L+M’s partner on Essex Crossing on the Lower East Side and the new National Urban League Headquarters in Harlem, will serve as the project’s Retail Development Advisor.

Along with the Bronx Children’s Museum, Hostos Community College, and Bronx Terminal Market, Bronx Point is within walking distance of borough institutions like the Bronx Civic Center district and Yankee Stadium, along with subway stations for the 2, 4, 5, B, and D lines.

Bronx Point is a key component of a $194 million capital investment strategy for the Lower Concourse neighborhood, announced by the de Blasio Administration in 2015 and led by NYCEDC. For more than two years, the development team and NYCEDC engaged extensively with the local community, including hosting open space design workshops and additional working group sessions with an array of local stakeholders. In the end, community members were able to directly influence the design and programming of the project’s open space and provide a range of ongoing feedback as the project progressed.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/universal-hip-hop-museum-breaks-ground-at-bronx-point/

Mozzy and YG drop the “Gangsta” visual from “Kommunity Service” colab project

“Gangsta” The 1st single from the collaboration album “Kommunity Service” from Mozzy and YG. The record is a remake to a 50 Cent smash hit from the early 2000’s “Wanksta”. Inglewood native and actor, DeAndre Bonds plays a roll in the video which has a movie like story line.

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@mozzy

@yg

source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2021/05/mozzy-and-yg-drop-the-gangsta-visual-from-kommunity-service-colab-project/

Producer Fredwreck On MC Ren Liking Kurupt’s “Calling Out Names,” Making “Represent Dat G.C.” & Breaking Down Studio Work Flow With Eminem + More On Unique Access

During part 3 of the Fredwreck interview with Soren Baker & Unique Access, the multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning producer discusses MC Ren liking Kurupt‘s “Calling Out Names”, making “Represent Dat G.C” for Kurupt, Butch Cassidy, Daz Dillinger, Jayo Felony, Soopafly, Snoop Dogg and Big Tray Deee, and also breaks down the studio work flow and production process when working with Eminem production process.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/producer-fredwreck-on-mc-ren-liking-kurupts-calling-out-names-making-represent-dat-g-c-breaking-down-studio-work-flow-with-eminem-more-on-unique-acce/

D.B Boutabag drops “Top Rapper” feat, Drakeo The Ruler

D.B Boutabag’s new visual “Top Rapper”, sets the tone for the summer. The tracks features Drakeo The Ruler, who’s verse adds a grittiness. D.B Boutabag opens up the songs with a layed back, but sharp flow. Check it out!

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@db.Boutabag

@drakeotheruler

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/d-b-boutabag-drops-top-rapper-feat-drakeo-the-ruler/

DJ Battlecat To Perform On NBC’s “The Voice” With Snoop Dogg

Next week on Tuesday, May 25th 2021, pioneering West Coast producer DJ Battlecat will be performing on the NBC singing competition television series The Voice, along with Long Beach icon and Mount Westmore supergroup member Snoop Dogg. The Multi-platinum producer has produced timeless and iconic music for over 30 years for several elite artists including Michael Jackson proteges Quo (“Quo Funk”), Madonna (“Human Nature” [Remix]) Snoop Dogg (“Stacey Adams”, “Gangsta Wit It”), Tha Dogg Pound (“Cali Iz Active”), Spice 1 (“Bustas Can’t See Me”), Xzibit (“Get Your Walk On”), Tha Eastsidaz (“G’d Up”), Kurupt (“We Can Freak It”), Domino (“Ghetto Jam”), E-40 (“Nah, Nah..”) and countless others. An elite producer known for his signature claps, smooth and funky synth bass lines and soulful keys, Battlecat continues to inspire and innovate and shows no signs of slowing down. Producing on Snoop Dogg’s recent From Tha Suites 2 Tha Streets release, the upcoming Mt. Westmore album and more, Battlecat is redefining what it means to get better with time. Tune in to The Voice next Tuesday from 9pn-11pm est to catch the performance.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/dj-battlecat-to-perform-on-nbcs-the-voice-with-snoop-dogg/

Vince Ash Drops Official Video For “Back N The Dayz” (Prod. Fredwreck)

Hammond, IN rapper Vince Ash drops the official video for the Fredwreck-produced “Back N The Dayz” track off the Vito (Deluxe Edition) EP.

Not only does the Goliath Records/Interscope Records release feature production from Grammy Award-winning producer Fredwreck on “Back n The Dayz”, but it also tracks produced by Chef Lanre, Chris Dreamer, Coop The Truth, Nascent, OBA Twan, Polyester the Saint, and Sledgren.

The 8-track Vito (Deluxe Edition) EP sees Vince Ash collaborating with Rene Bozeman, Nuskii, Skiinny & Tramaine.

Check out the “Back N The Dayz” official video below:

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/vince-ash-drops-official-video-for-back-n-the-dayz-prod-fredwreck/

Indie Spotlight: Ashanti Major continues to impress with new visual “Xtra Spicey”

Ashanti Major work ethic is unmatched. The multi-talented rapper always finds a way to separate herself from the pack of upcoming female rappers. Her time is near if not already happening. Look for her to be a shining star soon. In the mean time check her latest release!

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@ashantimajor

source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2021/05/indie-spotlight-ashanti-major-continues-to-impress-with-new-visual-xtra-spicey/

Annimeanz links with J Hood and drops new visual “Side Stepping”

Annimeanz connects with J Hood and releases a new visual. “Side Steppin” The single has a dope beat. Both MC’s drop monster verses, that make the colab potent. Check it out!

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@annimeanz

@realjhood

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/annimeanz-links-with-j-hood-and-drops-new-visual-side-stepping/

West Coast Styles Exclusive Interview with Ice-T

In a new exclusive interview, Hip-Hop icon Ice-T chops it up with a few West Coast Styles team members. During the conversation, he breaks down, among other things, his early years in rap, interacting with fellow music legends, and his transition into the endorsement game.

He still is an H-U-S-T-L-E-R hustler. Respect due to a trailblazer whose path is still traveled by many to this day.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/interviews/2021/05/west-coast-styles-exclusive-interview-with-ice-t/

Hopsin Returns With New Video “BE11A CIAO”

Hopsin is back and killing the rap game with his highly touted bars with a new video & song named “Be11a Ciao.” The video is heavily inspired by the hit Netflix show “Money Heist” check it out below.

 

source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2021/05/hopsin-returns-with-new-video-be11a-ciao/

Compton AV drops a new visual “Slidin’”

Compton AV has a viral sensation happening across the internet. The Compton MC, just released his latest single “Slidin’” from his latest album “All In” out now on all platforms.

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@comptonav

source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2021/05/compton-av-drops-a-new-visual-slidin/

$hort Stories: Too Short Talks Seeing 2Pac For The Last Time On The Night He Was Shot In Las Vegas

In the latest episode of Too Short‘s $hort Stories series, the Bay Area icon and West Coast pioneer talks about seeing 2Pac the night he got shot in Las Vegas.

“I saw 2Pac the night he got shot in Vegas. It was probably about a couple of hours, maybe, before it happened. I went tot the fight, it was one of those classic Mike Tyson fights. He knocked him out in like 90 seconds.” Too Short starts off. “I was staying at the Luxor, and we were going in the hotel, and 2Pac, Suge, and small little entourage, they was leaving. We stopped and talked for a minute or so, and he said, ‘we about to switch up the fits and head to Club 662. It’s going to be open mic and everybody’s going to get on the mic.’ I said cool, we’re going to be there. He never made it.”

2Pac collaborated with Too Short on a couple of projects including being featured on the song “We Do This”, which also had the late MC Breed and former Dangerous Crew member Father Dom on the song, from Too Short’s 1995 Cocktails album. The two also collaborated with MC Breed for the Ant Banks-produced “4 Tha Hustlas” from the producer’s 1997 Big Thangs album on Priority Records.

Check out the latest episode of $hort Stories below:

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/hort-stories-too-short-talks-seeing-2pac-for-the-last-time-on-the-night-he-was-shot-in-las-vegas/

Joyner Lucas drops Zim Zimma” visual, Diddy, Mark Wahlberg, George Lopez make appearances

Lyrics have never been an issue for Joyner Lucas. Always one to bring heavy word play to and stroy-telling ability to Hip Hop. This latest effort doesn’t disappoint. And even has movie like vibes!

source https://westcoaststyles.com/video/2021/05/joyner-lucas-drops-zim-zimma-visual-diddy-mark-wahlberg-george-lopez-make-appearances/

Mozzy and YG are dropping a collaboration album, “Kommunity Service” track list revealed

Mozzy took to his instagram today to reveal the cover and track list to “Kommunity Service”  a joint collaboration album with YG. Which is packed with features from, A Boogie, Tyga, Blxst, D3, G Herbo, Celly Ru and Young Ma. The project is set to drop this Friday 5/21/21. Keep it locked, it looks like the summer is about to be lit!

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/mozzy-and-yg-are-dropping-a-collaboration-album-kommunity-service-track-list-revealed/

Drakeo The Ruler, confirms he will be performing live, at the Summer Unlocked concert July 23rd

Drakeo The Ruler posted the flyer to this summer’s largest concert event in Ontario, Ca on July 23rd, 2021 at the Toyota Arena. Arguably one of the hottest artist in Los Angeles will be part of a huge line up, that will kick off getting back to opening up, and having live performances.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/drakeo-the-ruler-confirms-he-will-be-performing-live-at-the-summer-unlocked-concert-july-23rd/

Snoop Dogg Pushing NFL For A Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show Featuring Dr. Dre, Eminem, Kendrick Lamar & 50 Cent

With the 2022 Super Bowl set to be played in at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, Snoop Dogg is pushing for an all-star hip-hop line-up for the title game’s halftime show featuring Dr. Dre, Eminem, 50 Cent, Kendrick Lamar, and the the Doggfather himself.

Speaking to Yahoo Entertainment, Snoop says, “I’m available, Dre’s available, Eminem’s available, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent — whoever Dr. Dre wants to pull out of his hat to make this thing a professional event and make it big and the biggest effort they can have.

The Long Beach icon and Mount Westmore supergroup member hopes the NFL will make the right decision, promising it would be a definite must-see event adding, “It’s just a matter of the NFL pulling the trigger. I wouldn’t just walk out. I would definitely do something that would be mind-blowing, you know what I’m saying? People will be talking about it for the next 30 years.”

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/snoop-dogg-pushing-nfl-for-a-super-bowl-lvi-halftime-show-featuring-dr-dre-eminem-kendrick-lamar-50-cent/

Sir Jinx Dropping General Population Album “Money Over Everything” Ft. Ras Kass, Rodney O, Jayo Felony, Trevor Lawrence, DJ Silk + More Next Month

Iconic West Coast producer Sir Jinx, responsible for classic albums and songs for Ice Cube, King Tee, Xzibit, and Kool G. Rap & DJ Polo, is dropping the General Population album Money Over Everything on June 3, 2021.

The former C.I.A. hip-hop group member’s release will feature Ras Kass, Jayo Felony, Butch Cassidy, Roscoe, Devin The Dude, Rodney O, and Bone Crusher along with Tri Star and Dat Boi Hop.

The tracklist for Sir Jinx Presents General Population: Money Over Everything is as follows:

1. Intro (ft. Sir Jinx)
2. Rime Scene (ft. Jayo Felony, Tri Star, Hop, Trevor Lawrence, Sir Jinx)
3. Die Making Money (ft. 2Pac, Tri Star, Hop, Mike & Keys, Sir Jinx)
4. Fate (Tri Star, Hop, Thayod Ausar, Sir Jinx)
5. Oh My God (Tri Star, Hop, Jesse West, Sir Jinx)
6. In My Footsteps (ft. Roscoe, Tri Star, Hop, DJ Silk, Sir Jinx)
7. Like A Boss (ft. Tri Star, Hop, Sir Jinx)
8. Bump Bump (ft. Roscoe, Tri Star, Hop, Choir Boi, Sir Jinx)
9. I Don’t Take You Serious (ft. Butch Cassidy, Tri Star, Hop, Mike & Keys, Sir Jinx)
10. Fuq Um All Nite (ft. Biggie, Tri Star, Hop, Sir Jinx)
11. That Type Of Girl (ft. Butch Cassidy, Tri Star, Hop, Thayod Ausar, Sir Jinx)
12. Show Me The Money (ft. Damion Cantrell, Tri Star, Hop, The Track Team, Sir Jinx)
13. Oh So Fresh (ft. Tash of The Liks, Tri Star, Sir Jinx)
14. Even The Score (ft. Tri Star, Hop, Choir Boi, Sir Jinx)
15. Get Somethin’ Mane (ft. Tri Star, Hop, M-Hat, Mike & Keys, Sir Jinx)
16. The Time Is Now (ft. Ras Kass, Bone Crusher, Tri Star, Hop, E Note, Choir Boi, Sir Jinx)

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/sir-jinx-dropping-general-population-album-money-over-everything-ft-ras-kass-rodney-o-jayo-felony-trevor-lawrence-dj-silk-more-next-month/

Kxng Crooked’s Words Come To Life In New Visual

Kxng Crooked’s  2020 project “The Sixteen Chapel” gave fans nothing but dynamic bars and lyrics from the Long Beach native. and now you can add a visual to the words from his smash single “The Dream Tapes” in this visually pleasing lyric video right here at the link below.

 

 

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/kxng-crookeds-words-come-to-life-in-new-visual/

Unreleased Shock G Interview from 2008 (Part 3 of 3)

The following is an unedited Q and A e-mail exchange between Mr. Todd Davis and Shock G from 2008 (part 3 of 3).  

For Part 2, click here 

For Part 1, click here

 

12). Do you have any other aspirations, maybe even outside of music altogether?? 

I paint. I draw cartoons & comics. I’m in the process of writing a book. I like wildlife too, there’s so much to be learned from the wild animals, the inexcessiveness of their nature. Their eating habits. Ever notice that wild animals (squirrels, horses, giraffes, deer, monkeys, zebras, etc) ever notice that they don’t get sick like we do? They run like the wind, even as senior citizens, but no high-blood pressure, no diabetes, no stroke, no heart disease, no arthritis, no cellulite, no obesity, no doctors, and no dentists.

Humans on the other hand are all fucked up, with cabinets full of medicine, and with practically everyone becoming sick in some way by middle age.

I avoid sugar, grease, & dairy products, and I try to eat as much natural & raw plant food, and drink as much water as I can. So I can be healthy & active like the animals are. Wise eating is the cure to all.

But u won’t hear that on TV or in the news, this society needs us to be sick for the economy to continue.

13). Would it be fair to say that you are happy with the current state of Hip-Hop music?? 

I love it, so much variety out there. If u really search, u can find examples of any kind of hip-hop u want. It’s all out there.

14). Since everyone either knows you already, or will become familiar with you, for and through your music, what would you want these same people to know about Shock G that they won’t get from listening to your record(s)??  

 My private life is the polar opposite of the d.u. scene, and especially the Humpty character. Humpty’s an excessive & over-indulgent type of dude. On the contrary, I’m a minimalist in real life. I have no microwave oven, no TV, and no cellphone. My only luxury is my light-speed internet connection and my mac computer.  I make my meals from scratch with raw ingredients everyday at home. I shop only 3 days or so in advance, so that everything’s always market fresh, instead of frozen, boxed or canned. No poppin last nights pizza or yesterdays nuggets in the microwave ’round nis muhfucka! That’s that bullshit that leads to high-blood pressure and arthritis.

 And in return, I have energy for dayz, more than when I was in high-school, and can break my girl off all day & night, without viagra. ha ha, yup.

15). What would these same people find you doing in your off/spare time completely away from the music?? 

 Drawing my beautiful girlfriend, I like to paint her, or make little cartoons of us. Or cook for her, I make a mean vegan pesto angel-hair zuchinni pasta, with garlic sourdough and a light basil dipping sauce. Or my special Shockgs’ Broccoli Parmesian. Sometimes I cook for my neighbors nextdoor, or for my family. We just had a big week-long family reunion out here in LA.  My little sister Liz Carson is a designer on tour with Ebony Fashion Fair at present, so we based the family reunion around her LA dates.

16). To date, what has been your biggest career highlight??  

 Too many to mention. Working with George Clinton. Producing Tupac Shakur. Sharing the stage with RZA recently. Having Erykah Badu hold me down on drum machine while I busted at a Tupac benefit, and her & I closing the show together. Touring with Murs & Scarub of Living Legends as their DJ & music conductor. Producing a Prince song on his Crystal Ball album. Touring with the Luniz, total lunatics on the road. Touring with Humpty Hump, so much fun he is. Exchanging email addys and chatting with Fiona Apple online. Touring Japan with Queen Latifah, Tupac, and the rest of d.u.

To be able to hire my high school best friend Larry Cushnie and my younger brother Kent Racker as stage crew and bring them on tour around the world with us on those first big stadium d.u. tours. Priceless. To have Bernie Worrell (Parliaments main keyboardist) in my home-studio back in 99 when I lived in Sacramento, showing me the correct chords to all my favorite high-school era Parliament jams.

To see digital underground songs in wedding & Kareoke song books around the world!! “Look Mom, no grammy but we made it to kareoke books!”  hee hee.

source https://westcoaststyles.com/news/2021/05/unreleased-shock-g-interview-from-2008-part-3-of-3/