.jpg)
by Olivia Dikambi
Presentation: Who's Mecca, how would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Soulful, Eclectic B-Boy
Longevity in the game?
Hope so! lol Gotta stay fluid for that. But make sure you stay yourself.
Why choosing Hip Hop? what's the real reason behind that choice?
It's all I've ever known and loved. I dig a lot of different kinds of music but Hip-Hop is the 1st music that spoke to me and seemed natural.
Your musical influences?
Grand Puba, Redman, Nas, Jimmy Hendrix, Prince, Big Daddy Kane
Your name, any inspiration, specific meaning?
For awhile I would tell people it stood for M.aking E.very C.onnection C.ause A.ction just to mess with em. lol But in truth my pops was a Muslim so it became a nickname for awhile. On the block, all the heads were heavy into breakdancing because of the older cats. We all ended up with corny breakdance names so mine went from "Mechanical M" to just "Mecca" and sometimes "Mecc."
Hip Hop in 2009, where are we heading? musically, heaven or hell?
Purgatory, its anybodies game right now and there's a bunch of sides in the fight. On one end the industry is losing control thatnks to the internet, BUT now EVERYBODY feels like they can make money so things are flooded with people who have no talent. Then again the labels werent really that great at signing talent before anyway. The old politics are being replaces with the new politics. The new cats wanna be able to do whatever and NOT be called wack just because its new. The older cats arent digging the the new direction but can't talk about it without being callled haters but some of them are just closed minded.... its purgatory.
Your last video has features from Skyzoo, Sha Stimuli, A. Pinks & Torae.You are proving New York is still on the map and rappers are not always beefin'. If you could add another MC, who would it be and why?
There's a lot to choose from! lol If I had to count somebody who wasnt on the song and missed the video.... maybe Mickey Factz or Jean Grea. And why is because of the same reason I asked the original four. They are true spitters, dope representations of New York's talent and I consider them friends. But honestly I wouldnt change my lineup, I thought it came out perfect.
Who came up with the idea to redo the ''Flava In Your Ear'' video concept? You or Puma?
That was me as, the song was the third joint from my mixtape called The Cover Run. But I couldnt have pulled it off without Puma . He's the reason why it looked so good. Shouts to Puma of TheProgram LLC
Your favorite punchline?
Too many of those... I wouldnt even know where to start.
Your favorite Hip Hop song?
Too many to mention. Off the top in no order:
It Aint Hard To Tell - Nas
Funkorama- Redman
Can I Live- Jay-Z
Know The Ledge- Eric B & Rakim
Retrospective For Life- Common
Unbelievable- Notorious B.I.G.
The Blast- Hi-Tek & Kewli
Flashing Lights- Kanye West... list goes on.
New York rap, who's next?
Does'nt matter, Hip-Hop just needs somebody to get it popping. Hell, you might be talking to him... who Knows? I'll tell you when I find out. lol
Top 5 questions:
Nina B or Nicky Minaj? Automatic bias, Nina was in my video. (plus she knows where I live)
Biggie or Tupac? Biggie said iller sh*t, Pac said sh*t niggas felt... can't call it.
Red Cafe or Maino? Gotta hear the albums 1st
Donny Goines or Emilio Rojas? Both dope and both of em where in my video?! F*ck that!
Is it time for Jay Z to go? Why? Is BB King or Eric Clapton to old to play guitar? Is somebody gonna kick U2 off stage? Is Maya Angelou too old to write a poem? If we keep tearing up our best we're never gonna have those legends like the rock-n-roll boys have. Hip-Hop needs to know what a grown-up looks like anyway. When he runs out of dope songs, he should stop.
What can we expect from you, any upcoming projects?
Few albums lined up. One for overseas and another one for home callled Sound & Fury. Gotta hit the road soon so I'm trying to knock it out.
The last word?
Live the Beautiful Struggle
twitter @MrMecc
30 July 2009
Exclusive interview with Mr.Mecca
Exclusive interview with Mr.Mecca
Presentation: Who's Mecca, how would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Soulful, Eclectic B-Boy
Longevity in the game?
Hope so! lol Gotta stay fluid for that. But make sure you stay yourself.
Why choosing Hip Hop? what's the real reason behind that choice?
It's all I've ever known and loved. I dig a lot of different kinds of music but Hip-Hop is the 1st music that spoke to me and seemed natural.
Your musical influences?
Grand Puba, Redman, Nas, Jimmy Hendrix, Prince, Big Daddy Kane
For awhile I would tell people it stood for M.aking E.very C.onnection C.ause A.ction just to mess with em. lol But in truth my pops was a Muslim so it became a nickname for awhile. On the block, all the heads were heavy into breakdancing because of the older cats. We all ended up with corny breakdance names so mine went from "Mechanical M" to just "Mecca" and sometimes "Mecc."
Purgatory, its anybodies game right now and there's a bunch of sides in the fight. On one end the industry is losing control thatnks to the internet, BUT now EVERYBODY feels like they can make money so things are flooded with people who have no talent. Then again the labels werent really that great at signing talent before anyway. The old politics are being replaces with the new politics. The new cats wanna be able to do whatever and NOT be called wack just because its new. The older cats arent digging the the new direction but can't talk about it without being callled haters but some of them are just closed minded.... its purgatory.
If you could add another MC, who would it be and why?
There's a lot to choose from! lol If I had to count somebody who wasnt on the song and missed the video.... maybe Mickey Factz or Jean Grea. And why is because of the same reason I asked the original four. They are true spitters, dope representations of New York's talent and I consider them friends. But honestly I wouldnt change my lineup, I thought it came out perfect.
Who came up with the idea to redo the ''Flava In Your Ear'' video concept? You or Puma?
That was me as, the song was the third joint from my mixtape called The Cover Run. But I couldnt have pulled it off without Puma . He's the reason why it looked so good. Shouts to Puma of TheProgram LLC
Your favorite punchline?
Too many of those... I wouldnt even know where to start.
Your favorite Hip Hop song?
Too many to mention. Off the top in no order:
It Aint Hard To Tell - Nas
Funkorama- Redman
Can I Live- Jay-Z
Know The Ledge- Eric B & Rakim
Retrospective For Life- Common
Unbelievable- Notorious B.I.G.
The Blast- Hi-Tek & Kewli
Flashing Lights- Kanye West... list goes on.
Does'nt matter, Hip-Hop just needs somebody to get it popping. Hell, you might be talking to him... who Knows? I'll tell you when I find out. lol
Top 5 questions:
Nina B or Nicky Minaj? Automatic bias, Nina was in my video. (plus she knows where I live)
Biggie or Tupac? Biggie said iller sh*t, Pac said sh*t niggas felt... can't call it.
Red Cafe or Maino? Gotta hear the albums 1st
Is it time for Jay Z to go? Why? Is BB King or Eric Clapton to old to play guitar? Is somebody gonna kick U2 off stage? Is Maya Angelou too old to write a poem? If we keep tearing up our best we're never gonna have those legends like the rock-n-roll boys have. Hip-Hop needs to know what a grown-up looks like anyway. When he runs out of dope songs, he should stop.
What can we expect from you, any upcoming projects?
Few albums lined up. One for overseas and another one for home callled Sound & Fury. Gotta hit the road soon so I'm trying to knock it out.
The last word?
Live the Beautiful Struggle
twitter @MrMecc
29 July 2009
28 July 2009
Meeting with Anthony Hamilton
On a night out in the city, David E Beats and I ran into Comedian and actor Anthony Hamilton. Oh, this man is funny! Fun times
27 July 2009
I AM PR Agency at Soundctrl Event in NYC
I attended Soundctrl event in NYC, for their Artist Disruptors panel: about a conversation with artists who use non-traditional media to amplify their brand into the new music business
A very interesting Q&A session with Wale's manager, Rik Cordero, Chrisette Michelle and the crowd!
I also chatted with Rap artist Graph, actor Fetti Benton and Video director Rik Cordero.
Mickey Factz reveals more about himself in an exclusive Q&A
Olivia Dikambi, Hip Hop Music Examiner, chatted it up with Mickey Factz to discuss about his music, top 5 producers, top 5 rappers, his best moment performing live and more.
In only two years, Bronx-bred rapper Mickey Factz accomplished more than your average myspace rapper. He has co-founded his own marketing, branding business and label, GFC New York ; had his song featured on MTV, and appeared on the cover of XXL's December issue for the annual top 10 up-and-coming artists feature. Yes, Mickey Factz has been there, done that. Closer look at the rapper in an exclusive Q&A.
For those who don’t know you yet, can you introduce yourself?
Mickey Factz. The Digital Messiah, The Offspring of Hope, The Future of Art.
How long have you been in the game?
2 years officially and loving it.
What makes Mickey stand out in the industry?
His ability to use his intellect and diverse love for music standout on every song he does. Not to mention his keen fashion sense.
You’re from the Boogie Down Bronx, is there any upcoming local talent from the Bronx we should look up to?
Cory Gunz and Fred Da Godson. Those are the two homies.
If it wasn’t music, what else would you have loved to do?
I wanted to be an astronaut at one point in my life but a fellow student inadvertantly convinced me not to do it. I took a crack at law and realized it wasn't for me so I've been considering culinary arts.
In the current state of the music industry, would you recommend going independent?
I recommend that the artist do what's best for them. The solution is how hard is everyone working to make the artist successful. Whether it be independent or major.
Who are some of your biggest influences?
Michael Jackson, John P. Kee, Nirvana, Aerosmith, Big Daddy Kane, Big Pun etc.
What’s your best moment performing live?
Doing pushups on stage with my band the automatics for the first time at Sob's. It was so unexpected that it solidified me as a great performer.
In what country would you love to perform, that you haven’t been to yet?
Africa. But we're gonna make it happen sooner than later. I can feel it.
How long does it take you to record a whole project?
Depends on the mood I'm in. It varies. In search of the N.E.R.D. took a total of 4 months. Flashback took a total of 16 months. Heavens Fallout was 2 months. So it varies.
What’s your biggest accomplishment ‘til this day?
Acquiring a car commercial without the help of a major label. That is the biggest so far. Still more to come though.
You did the commercial for Honda, definitely a good look! How did this happen?
They were searching for the perfect match to what Honda represents. Style that make sense. Someone who knew how to spend his money wisely and not waste it on foolish things. They picked the perfect candidate if I do say so myself.
Your top 5 rappers?
Jay Electronica, Blu, Elzhi, Lupe Fiasco, Joe Budden
Your top 5 producers?
Quincy Jones, John P. Kee, Teddy Riley, Kanye West and Precize
Your top 5 sneakers?
White on White MY-43 Puma's, O.G. Gold Supra's, All black b-ball Y-3's, Undefeated Dunks and Shawn Kemp Kamikazee's.
You’re about to perform in Tokyo in August, your first time! Do you love the crowd and fans overseas?
Yes. When I performed in China it was a great experience. Now to go to Tokyo, a city I always dreamed about is heaven.
Can you give some advice to upcoming rappers, and the next generation of artists?
Be a Leader, if you can't be a leader, start following your heart. Nothing is handed to you, work hard for it.
What’s next for Mickey Factz in 2010?
The world in the palm of my hand. My debut album and tons of other surprises.
Any shout outs?
If your breathing, thank you for your cooperation.
David E Beats Preps For Open Mic/Showcase Tour Part 2
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mickey Factz reveals more about himself in an exclusive Q&A
PROlivia chatted it up with Mickey Factz to discuss about his music, top 5 producers, top 5 rappers, his best moment performing live and more.
In only two years, Bronx-bred rapper Mickey Factz accomplished more than your average myspace rapper. He has co-founded his own marketing, branding business and label, GFC New York ; had his song featured on MTV, and appeared on the cover of XXL's December issue for the annual top 10 up-and-coming artists feature. Yes, Mickey Factz has been there, done that.
Closer look at the rapper in an exclusive Q&A.
1) For those who don’t know you yet, can you introduce yourself?
Mickey Factz. The Digital Messiah, The Offspring of Hope, The Future of Art.
2) How long have you been in the game?
2 years officially and loving it.
3) What makes Mickey stand out in the industry?
His ability to use his intellect and diverse love for music standout on every song he does. Not to mention his keen fashion sense.
4) You’re from the Boogie Down Bronx, is there any upcoming local talent from the Bronx we should look up to?
Cory Gunz and Fred Da Godson. Those are the two homies.
5) If it wasn’t music, what else would you have loved to do?
I wanted to be an astronaut at one point in my life but a fellow student inadvertantly convinced me not to do it. I took a crack at law and realized it wasn't for me so I've been considering culinary arts.
6) In the current state of the music industry, would you recommend going independent?
I recommend that the artist do what's best for them. The solution is how hard is everyone working to make the artist successful. Whether it be independent or major.
7) Who are some of your biggest influences?
Michael Jackson, John P. Kee, Nirvana, Aerosmith, Big Daddy Kane, Big Pun etc.
8) What’s your best moment performing live?
Doing pushups on stage with my band the automatics for the first time at Sob's. It was so unexpected that it solidified me as a great performer.
9) In what country would you love to perform, that you haven’t been to yet?
Africa. But we're gonna make it happen sooner than later. I can feel it.
10) How long does it take you to record a whole project?
Depends on the mood I'm in. It varies. In search of the N.E.R.D. took a total of 4 months. Flashback took a total of 16 months. Heavens Fallout was 2 months. So it varies.
11) What’s your biggest accomplishment ‘til this day?
Acquiring a car commercial without the help of a major label. That is the biggest so far. Still more to come though.
12) You did the commercial for Honda, definitely a good look! How did this happen?
They were searching for the perfect match to what Honda represents. Style that make sense. Someone who knew how to spend his money wisely and not waste it on foolish things. They picked the perfect candidate if I do say so myself.
13) Your top 5 rappers?
Jay Electronica, Blu, Elzhi, Lupe Fiasco, Joe Budden
14) Your top 5 producers?
Quincy Jones, John P. Kee, Teddy Riley, Kanye West and Precize
15) Your top 5 sneakers?
White on White MY-43 Puma's, O.G. Gold Supra's, All black b-ball Y-3's, Undefeated Dunks and Shawn Kemp Kamikazee's.
16) You’re about to perform in Tokyo in August, your first time! Do you love the crowd and fans overseas?
Yes. When I performed in China it was a great experience. Now to go to Tokyo, a city I always dreamed about is heaven.
17) Can you give some advice to upcoming rappers, and the next generation of artists?
Be a Leader, if you can't be a leader, start following your heart. Nothing is handed to you, work hard for it.
19) What’s next for Mickey Factz in 2010?
The world in the palm of my hand. My debut album and tons of other surprises.
20) Any shout outs?
If your breathing, thank you for your cooperation.
22 July 2009
I AM PR Agency attends Fabolous Private Screening Event
He talked about starting to rap at 13. ‘’I thought you had to know somebody be a rapper. I thought you had to be somebody’s cousin or brother in order to rap.’’
‘’Loso’s way’’ the movie was inspired by Carlito’s way, Fabolous thinks they come from the same environment.
17 July 2009
I AM PR Agency attends Urban Music Awards
The annual Urban Music Awards USA took place on July, the 17th in New York City. Artists, DJs, producers, promoters, record labels executives, celebrities from the world of music, radio, TV, sports and music fans were all reunited during the very special night at the Hammerstein Ballroom. Celebrities such as Swizz Beatz, Bobby Valentino , Dana Dane, and KRS 1 stopped by the event to show their support. Swizz Beats won for ''Best Producer of 2009''; competing against heavyweights Mark Ronson, Timberland, Scott Storch, Ryan Leslie and Stargate. Bobby Valentino won ''Best Male Act 2009 (UK & USA)'
'
16 July 2009
I AM PR Agency attends ''Show & Tell'' Event in the Bronx
The boogie down Bronx has one of the most intimate spots for spoken words artists.
In December 2008, Jalloh partenered with Elizabeth Allen (dba Lizy), a freelance photographer to launch an event called'' Show & Tell''. Elizabeth recalls how she came up with the idea:
''I wanted to create an event to bring together all the various circles of MC's, singers, musicians, dancers, etc. together to share their talents with their peers and connect with people whom they might never meet otherwise. I was connected with Alpha Jalloh, the owner of Platform NYC, and we both agreed that this was something we wanted to bring to the Bronx. His store is a destination for streetwear connoisseurs who didn't always want to travel to the city for exclusive wears; my goal was to do an event for people who lived uptown and in the Bronx and didn't always want to travel to the city for the same experience''
The first event took place in December 2008; the second was held this past February.
After the success of the first two Show & Tell events, the dynamic duo wanted to organize an evening centered solely around spoken word, and because the art is very near and dear to Jalloh. On july 14th, 2009, they organized their first spoken word event.
The Lineup included:
Ibrahim Siddiq-Orande Baltimore-Hipnotic-Youforia Life of The Outabodies
Jihad for the Music-Shannell-(IAM) ISIS-Niles-Amazin-Charlotte Mishelle
Charan P.-YC the Cynic-Wordspit-B.A.
The stars of the night were Orande Baltimore for his poem called ''Birth''; Niles with his opera for anthem; Charlotte Michelle for her poem 'Women are scared of revolution'' and Charan P. who talked about her younger brother choosing to go to Iraq.
More photos can be found at this link: https://download.yousendit.com/dVlvT2pPZDVEa1dGa1E9PQ for the next 7 days.
You can also have a look at the event page on Facebook: http://bit.ly/v3gZx
By Olivia Dikambi
David E Beats To Be Featured On Wax Cafe/ PNC Radio
A few radio stations in New York city give the opportunity to local, indie and unsigned artists to showcase their talent; PNC radio is one of them.
PNC strives to bring its fans and listeners the latest and most classic sounds of the movement in classic Hip Hop, New Exclusives, RnB, and Reggae music with artist interviews, latest hits, entertainment news, talk, gossip,current events.
On July 16th, 2009, Hip Hop artist/producer David E Beats will be featured on Wax Cafe/PNC radio for his smash song ''Walk In'',the lead single off his mix-tape ''David E Beats Boulevard''. The song will receive regular plays on the airwaves.
''I've heard nothing but good things about PNC radio,says David E Beats, I'm really excited to be part of their family. It's a great opportunity, I'm looking forward to it."
Taisha Brooke, host and radio personality for the Wax cafe/PNC radio confessed: '' David E Beats is a breath of fresh air destined to break through the game with no holds barred. The exhilarating single "Walk In", is a proof of his true craftsmanship and what is to come.''
Tune in on Thursday from 4pm til 6pm (EST) on www.pncradio.fm to listen to the show
Links:
www.davidebeats.com
www.pncradio.fm
www.wix.com/
About PNC RADIO
PNC Radio has positioned itself to be the premiere media brand and online radio station for Hip Hop Culture. PNC strives to bring its fans and listeners the latest news, undeniable content, exclusive music and classic sounds of the culture. While recognizing and acknowledging the past contributions of the Culture, PNC maintains its sights on the future of Urban Digital Media and Online Radio. As a premiere digital media company PNC prides itself in recognizing and appreciating the hard work and passion put forth by those that live and breathe this Hip Hop movement. PNC Radio boasts some of the most talented on-air personalities and DJ's.
www.pncradio.fm