HAVE YOU MET – 1587 Grassroots Marketing Agency

(AUDIO) Have You Met Nick Huff? (Founder & CEO Of Hardknock TV)

November 21, 2014November 23, 2014 1587Leave a comment

Back when I launched the Myspace as “A Place For Hip Hop” community many moons ago, I remembered wanting to do more than capture our live events such as the Secret Shows, interviews, sponsored events and artist features via photos. The personal goal was to also have archived video of our very first strictly Hip-Hop & R&B franchise, the “Myspace Release Show.” The only problem was? We lacked the knowledge of operating video equipment of course. What was the solution? Meeting Nick Huff, Founder & CEO of HardknockTV who currently partners with companies like the GRAMMYS, SXSW or Beats Music to provide quality, in depth interviews/keynotes with the biggest superstars of the day ranging from Eminem to Andre3000 to Coldplay and 50 Cent.

Pictured below, is the very first Myspace Release show with rapper Chamillionaire in one of his first performances as a Houston rapper in NYC in partnership with AllHipHop.com week where Nick was the producer, editor and videographer on location. Within our first few years we also traveled to Atlanta for the HBCU Battle of the Bands with The Dream, Miami for a Pitbull ft. Lil Jon release show and back to NYC where Nick interviewed Diddy on the red carpet for his fragrance launch. While I would have loved to provide funding and distribution for Hardknock TV at that time, it wasn’t possible but happy to hear that it was during those beginning stages that he used our events to support his sidelong project which later became the Hardknock TV that we know today.

Prior to that, Nick began his early career as an intern to Hip Hop journalist and activist, Davey D from the bay area. While under the tutorial of the great radio hosts Davey, Weyland and Anita at “Hardknock Radio,” he hustled to create his own cable access show, “The Road Less Taken.” This is where Nick developed his own voice, bona fide conversationalist interview skills and the idea for Hardknock.TV. Listen to the interview below to hear more and be inspired by the man who was once in “ESL: English As A Second Language” classes as a young immigrant from Argentina.

Over the course of the years Nick has interviewed every hip hop artist you could think of, he has a unique A&R ear that stems from his early record label days working in the offices of Sony, to see budding talent before the talent even sees it themselves. J.Cole, Logic and Wiz Khalifa found some of their first memorable interviews sitting across Huff and his camera. What’s next? We imagine a Hardknock Multi-Channel Network that carries the brand message of quality versus quantity. Rather than create original content for anyone and everyone, Huff curates content with a watchful eye and looks to partner with similar hosts and producers in other genres who will care as much as he does to every detail. Listen to the interview below where Nick also touches on the subject of continued education such as at the upcoming Funk Volume Virtual Hip Hop Conference that they are a media sponsor of. He values his early work and looks for the “young Nick Huff” in the interns he hires which receive hands on, direct experience while working with him. What he respects most are those that come to the table with ideas themselves and helps the company grow.

Continue to visit Hardknock.TV for exclusive interviews, features and overall great content. Follow Nick Huff and remember where you read about him when you see him as a nightly music journalist hosting his own show or name in the credits watching your favorite Netflix music documentary. Full Dash Radio interview below which also features a special mix by DJ Beatcrazed, featuring all artists who have been previously featured on Hardknock that Nick is a fan of below as well as info on the upcoming Funk Volume Music Conference that he is sponsoring, a personal advocate for continued education, no matter which stage of your career.

hardknock.tv
youtube.com/hardknocktv
facebook.com/hardknocktv
twitter.com/hardknocktv
twitter.com/nickhuff

Have You Met The Audibles? (GRAMMY Nominated Production Duo Who Worked With Justin Bieber, Lupe Fiasco, Young Money & Many More)

November 21, 2014November 21, 2014 15872 Comments

By Marina A. Moreno

“Have you met The Audibles?” That’s a question that should quickly be answered with a ‘yes.’ If you beg to differ and still believe you haven’t, think about this; Have you heard Justin Bieber’s “Hold Tight”, Young Money’s “Girl I Got You” or GRAMMY nominated Lupe Fiasco’s “Bitch Bad” – you’ve heard the work of The Audibles.

Made up of Dominic “DJ Mecca” Jordan and Jimmy “Jimmy G” Giannos, The Audibles first came together in 2007 on the set of Polow Da Don’s R&B group, I-15’s ‘Lost In Love’ video shoot in their hometown of Las Vegas, NV. Jimmy G expressed great interest in working with one of the group’s singer’s, Castro, whom DJ had grown up with. Their humble beginning started when they would perform together during lunch time or at talent shows at their local Mohave High School, DJ acting as beatbox to the dancing singers. After Jimmy met up with DJ to create, the two quickly established an understanding and appreciation for each other’s style and talents and wasted no time in creating the power production duo that we know today as, The Audibles.

The duo’s first major production hit was their work behind Interscope artist, Mishon’s 2009 Billboard hit, “Turn It Up” which featured rapper Roscoe Dash. The song went on to climb the charts and led The Audibles to produce additional hits for Young Money including “We Are Young Money” and the previously mentioned “Girl I Got You.” The Audibles also gained partnership with Grammy award winning songwriter, Poo Bear, which led them to produce hits for Red Man and Method Man, and even gain much deserved respect for production on Lupe Fiasco’s L.A.S.E.R.S album. With an ecstatic combination of drums, keyboard, soft synths and live percussions, it only makes sense that The Audibles be granted with all they deserve.

Moving forward to 2011, The Audibles also became responsible for birthing the production behind four songs off rapper, Yelawolf’s debut album, “Radioactive” which included tracks co-produced by hip hop legend, Eminem. In 2012 the pair re-connected with Lupe Fiasco for his controversial, “Bitch Bad” and assisted on Poo Bear’s “BEATS 2 BREAK UP 2.”

Most recently added to their list of credentials working with artists’ such as Justin Bieber, 50 Cent, Tyga, Chris Brown, Lloyd, Wiz Khalifa, French Montana, Kendrick Lamar, R. Kelly and even Snoop Dogg. The pair is currently gearing up for the release of former I-15 member, Castro’s debut solo album, “You Fetish” in which they produced the entire album along side Castro and Poo Bear’s lyrical creativity.

Be sure to follow The Audibles on Twitter, Instagram, Soundcloud and even Facebook to stay updated on all they have coming to your ears including Castro’s “You Fetish” which drops early 2015. Trust me when I say, that’s one album you don’t want to miss out on, one of the best we’ve heard in awhile from start to finish. #noexaggeration

Twitter: @TheAudibles
Instagram: @TheAudibles
Soundcloud: soundcloud.com/TheAudibles
Facebook: facebook.com/The-Audibles

(VIDEO) Music Retox Takeover LA Ft. JUST JOSH MUSIC GROUP & DEEZY JONEZ

November 19, 2014November 21, 2014 1587Leave a comment

by Marina A. Moreno

Music Retox’s Deezy Jonez and Just Josh Music Group touched down in Cali a few weeks back. If you’ve followed CEO Eldon Peterson, Deezy Jonez, Just Josh Music Group or the #musicretox hashtag on their social media accounts, you too followed the journey these talented musicians embarked on.

Adrian and Frankie of Superb Photography captured an insight into the team’s productive press week; From the offices of Myspace, Russel Simmons’ All Def Digital, Hip Hop DX, DASH Radio, Homegrown Radio and even LA based clothing brand, Popular Demand before their photoshoot at YouTubeSpaceLA, the team was determined to touch down at every relevant stop that an artist should make before recording their LIVE EP entitled “Midnight Lusso.”

For more visit: www.musicretoxent.com and watch the video below, (make sure to adjust your settings to watch in 1080 HD. 😉

Have You Met The League Of Starz? (LOS Production Group)

November 19, 2014November 21, 2014 1587Leave a comment

By Marina A. Moreno

A lot of times when we’re enjoying the good vibes of proper looking women and gentlemen we find ourselves dancing and singing along to the hits the DJ spins. These can include Eric Bellinger’s “I Don’t Want Her,” Rich Homie Quan’s “Walk Thru” or even E-40’s “Function.” Now, what do all these tracks have in common besides being some of the biggest club bangers? They are all produced by a collection of music’s most talented producers. They are, the League Of Starz, brought together by mastermind and manager Pun. In a similar way that Nick Fury brought together all of The Avengers, it is Pun who recognized the individual talents molded together would make an unstoppable force.

Every producer seems to have their drop in the beginning of a song they helped make a hit and League of Starz is no different. Before the bass hits you can clearly hear a sexy voice baptize the track with their name, letting listeners know they are the trackmasters underlying the beat you’re grabbing your girls to dance to or boys to scope out a fine dime. Comprised of five producers – Dnyc3, Dupri, Jaynari, Macado, and Trend – League of Starz not only skilled, but knowledgeable enough to be able to continuously deliver content that not only appeals to each and every artist they work with, but to the listener as well.

Producers Dnyc3, Dupri, Macado, and Trend all originate from the sunny Los Angeles, California and Jaynari is a Milwaukee native who blends in so effortlessly with his surrounding four. Collectively, the five are responsible for previously mentioned hits and additional like Problem ft. Bad Lucc’s “Like What”, Ab-Souls “Twact”, Tyga’s “40 Mill” w/ Kanye West, DJ Carisma’s “Anyways” which features Sage The Gemini, Tory Lanez, and Eric Bellinger, New Boyz “Tie Me Down”, “Good Day” by Tyga, Lil’ Wayne and Meek Mill, “Faded” by Tyga, and most recently, Game’s “T.H.O.T” featuring Problem, Bad Lucc and Huddy.

With a resume full of recognizable hits, and over one hundred songs composed, I think it’s safe to say you’ve met the music of League of Starz. Notorious for providing emerging artists’ with their first real hit, League of Starz has literally changed the lives of the new artists’ they work with by providing each with a hit radio song that manifests into the artist gaining radio play, night club play and millions of streams on You Tube which eventually graduates into listeners purchasing their music and rapidly demanding to see them perform.

League of Starz is currently in the studio piecing together their latest project, “Respect The League” which is set to make its debut sometime next year.

Twitter: @leagueofstarz
Instagram: @leagueofstarz
Website: www.leagueofstarz.com

Have You Met Elle Winter?

November 13, 2014November 21, 2014 1587Leave a comment

by Marina A. Moreno

Think back to when you were 8-years old. What were you doing? As a girl you were probably brushing the hair of your Barbie dolls and as a boy you were probably playing catch with some of your neighbors. Well, not Elle Winter. At 8-years old, this singer-song writer was in and out of recording studios with a number of multi-platinum GRAMMY nominated producers and musical directors. And now, at a mere 15-years old, Elle is taking over the pop-scene one record at a time.

Growing up in New York City, Elle has always been surrounded by the culture that is art. Predominantly known for their street performers and broad-way shows, New York City is home to many of those pursing and/or destined for the spot light; And Elle is no different. At the tender age of three, it was beyond evident to Elle’s parents that she was made to be a star when they recognized her not only impersonating a rock-star, but also having the vocals to match. Growing up listening to artists’ such as Avril Lavigne, pop princess Britney Spears and even Shirley Temple, Elle was intrigued with all that music was composed of and would perform for family and friends. Little did they know, it was an insight into the future that is Elle Winter.

Like any young girl her age, Elle did realize the rise to her destiny wasn’t going to be easy. She had to work hard, believe and stay motivated. Though struggling to discover her sound and making sure she didn’t lose herself in the process, Elle learned to trust herself as an artist and realized no one knew her better than she knew herself. Though she knew it was easy to be influenced by her superstar surroundings, Elle followed her heart and poured it all out in her music. Paving a way that allowed her to manifest, gain recognition and gain an opportunity to deliver her story to those who believed in her and those who were growing to love her.

In 2012, Elle took her confident and upbeat personality, wrapped it with her talent and took on the offering from Disney’s “Next Big Thing 5” which led her to conquer a 10-city co-headlining tour; a prelude to what was to come for the singer. It wasn’t too long after in October of 2012 that Elle released “Day Away” via Walt Disney Records, which not only dominated Radio Disney’s Top 30 countdown for three consecutive months, but is also still in heavy rotation today. Joining Elle’s debut hit is her second single, “Want It All” which was released in 2013 via Radio Disney.

Now in 2014 Elle is keeping the momentum going as an artist under Mrok Music Group. Hard at work on her new album and visuals to pair, Elle continues to collaborate with some of music’s most respected producers, song-writers and video production groups. Elle’s latest video for her upcoming single, “No Words” was directed by Quincy and his FourXample Production team, and feature’s Christian Combs, son to music and media mogul, Diddy. Through her music, Elle hopes to continue to encourage fans to believe in themselves, embrace life and be happy.

Elle Winter’s new video “No Words” will be dropping soon! The song pays homage to the old adage that “actions speak louder than words” whether it be adoration for your partner, family friend or life itself that can’t be explained in words but better felt through the genuine emotions themselves. The song personifies Elle’s positive personality. See more exclusive photos from the shoot here.

(AUDIO) Have You Met Dame Ritter, CEO & Co-Founder Of Funk Volume?

November 12, 2014November 21, 2014 1587Leave a comment

For the past few weeks we’ve worked closer with Funk Volume and CEO Dame Ritter as we partnered to promote the Funk Volume Virtual Hip Hop Conference on 11/22 alongside HipHopDX, HipHopWired, HotNewHipHop, TeamBackpack, Omnia Media, HardknockTV, SkeeTV & DJ Booth and in doing so was inspired to bring him by additional FVHHC media sponsor, Dash Radio for a rare, exclusive interview co-hosted with partners in crime, DJ Base and Chehade The King. The Funk Volume takeover also features a special “Orange And Black Mix” by DJ Beatcrazed with some of your FV favorite songs.

Dame, endearingly also known as “Mr. Funk Volume” by his artists and FV fans is far from the usual record label executive. While most come from an A&R/artist background or have an “intern to President” type story, Ritter has the education and experience that matches those of high paid business consultants sitting in corporate high rise buildings across the world which he also once did. Even at a young age, in between countless basketball games, Dame found himself hustling to make a quick dollar whether it be through mowing lawns, washing cars or collecting comics and baseball cards and always managed to never be broke. He moved to the bay to attend the prominent UC Berkeley which led to a business degree and successful career in the financial industry. He later returned to get his MBA at the prestigious Standford University all before younger brother SwizZz and Hopsin approached him in 2008 to start a new, independent record label, which he decided to pursue after being laid off from an office job in Chicago.

Listen below to hear the rest of Dame’s inspirational story to find out more information about the conference which looks to inspire the next generation of leaders and teaching them the basics of how to build a team, increase your video views, how to get on the road and learn from previous mistakes with participating panelists Crooked I, Will Bronson (IamSu), Jarren Benton, Chris Webby and many more. Find out who Dame wish he would have signed to Funk Volume in the interview below. Hope that after listening, it sends a message to you that whenever chips are down and when all else feels, keep it moving.
Threes up to the entire Funk Volume team (Brooklyn Martino, DJ Hoppa, SwizZz, Dizzy Wright, Jarren Benton, Hopsin) & more for all of your hard work thus far. #stillmovin

Don’t forget http://www.funkvolumeconference.com for more info! If you are attending the conference, make sure to join the Funk Volume Virtual Hip Hop Conference Facebook page and join the conversation at #FVHHC. Hope to meet you all soon! Congratulations on making a great decision to #investinyourself – still to this day if I find an opportunity to further my own education I jump at it. There’s always something new to learn or re-learn.

(VIDEO) DJ CARISMA Lab Life Pro Interview

November 11, 2014 1587Leave a comment

With a name that truly portrays her character, DJ Carisma adds much more than just charismatic flavor to every mix. The Los Angeles based DJ, whose style clearly reflects the diversity and culture of the city she represents, has continued to develop her craft through countless hours of spinning behind the decks. DJ Carisma’s unique style and enthusiasm for music entertains all fans. Her diverse music library that ranges from Hip-Hop, R&B, Electro, House, Dance, Indie, and Top 40 has earned her fans and artist connections of many musical genres.

Carisma’s strive for success and endless submission of mix tapes and made her a professional DJ. After appearing in countless radio mix shows, DJ Carisma’s efforts won her the role as the first and only female DJ at Power 106 radio in Los Angeles. Her presence in the music world is evident as she helped discover, The New Boyz and the Jerk Movement, a hip-hop musical act based in Los Angeles. Nominated for the 2010 IDJ Female DJ of the Year, Carisma has five cameo appearances in music videos that are currently appearing on MTV. Carisma was a premier DJ for BET’s 2009 & 2010 Awards, She also currently hosts two of her very own online radio shows at TheMixShow.Com.

Carisma’s Cookie Jar mixes new and classic R&B hits and streams live every Monday at 9pm. The show features R&B guest hosts, which have included Dawn Richards of Dirty Money, Que from Day 26 and Tierra Mari, and Lloyd just to name a few.

DJ Carisma continues to gain respect and recognition for her efforts not only in music, but also for her community efforts.

Listen to her Third Floor Network #HaveYouMet interview here.

Stay connected with DJ Carisma:
http://www.djcarisma.com
Twitter: @DjCarisma
Instagram: @djcarisma
Facebook: DJ Carisma

(VIDEO) Have You Met Phora? Watch His NEW “Stay True” Music Video Directed By George Orozco

November 11, 2014November 12, 2014 1587Leave a comment

Born and raised in the outskirts of Anaheim, CA, lyricist PHORA is no stranger to Hip Hop. Phora was born into the culture and was participating in the various elements when most kids were learning to walk.

At age 9, PHORA was influenced by breakdancers like Crazy Legs when hitting the linoleum floor and at 13 evolved into a graffiti artist, thanks to his inspirational father, a talented artist who taught him the basics which he then used to develop his own skill. While most people his age are rapping about mollys or finding the next wild party in seach of girls, Phora finds reward in helping fans who find his music therapeutic when going through similar situations that he raps about in songs like “My Story” that has already garnered over 1 million plays on YouTube, adding to the over 15 million+ plays he currently has.

Musically, he pays homage to the great writers of the 90s generation including Tupac and Talib Kweli while appreciating producers well before his time including J.Dilla and Pete Rock. Fans have compared him to the likes of the West Coast’s best, mainly most due to his powerful lyricism, storytelling and organic large social following. While the comparisons continue, Phora remains humbled and shies away as people look to call him a leader for the new generation. He sees himself as the “Young Leader of Younger Leaders, an example to people who haven’t found themselves yet, who don’t even KNOW they’re a leader.” A unique voice in a millennial culture that strives to live with “borderless thoughts” and accomplish goals that are within reach and far too realistic to be considered just dreams.

Phora will release his new album “Nights Like These” on December 10, 2014 on his independent record label Yours Truly Records. Following the critically acclaim of his mixtapes and music shown via the comments on HotNewHipHop, HipHopDX, and DJBooth to name a few. Fans can purchase the CD with similar packages that include merch items such as T-Shirts hoodies and personalized insignia at www.officialphoraclothing.com

Check out his latest music video “Stay True” below. The video is a dedication to his longtime team and “Phoraheads” who have been supportive of his musical journey since day one while acknowledging but not phased by the naysayers. The song is produced by longtime partner Eskupe and video directed by George Orozco.

Have You Met Castro?

November 11, 2014November 11, 2014 15873 Comments

By Marina A. Moreno
Photo Credits: Santiago Interiano (Epic Nights)

“Fall in love with the process. You can do anything you put your mind to. If you’re truly passionate about it, you can do it. There is no formula to success. It really is all about hard work and dedication.” – CASTRO

This past year music definitely had its up and downs. No matter what genre you try to defend, you can’t really dodge the bullet that many rappers, singers and producers took. With only one album succeeding at becoming certified platinum in the month of November, music fans began to reflect and re-listen to albums they purchased (or downloaded) throughout the year so that they can crown who they thought deserved the recognition. Not only did appreciators assume that twenty-fourteen would be the year of musical domination, but it was predicted that R&B would be making its long awaited return. With voices like BJ The Chicago Kid, Miguel and Elijah Blake to name a few, why are we so deprived of soulful sounds to make us fall in love, have our hearts broken, and fall in love again? Luckily, all has not been lost. Emerging onto the scene is a singer/songwriter whose voice is powerful yet smooth enough to revive his genre. He is, Castro.

Bred out of Las Vegas, Nevada, Castro is a singer/songwriter paving the path that connects old school R&B to our generation now. Formally part of the successful Polow Da Don co-signed group, i-15 which created hit singles like “Lost In Love” and “Soulja Girl” with, Castro has branched off and grown a deeper understanding and appreciation for the industry he knows all too well; allowing him to fall in love with the process and outcome, all over again. Already experienced in songwriting for artists like Joe and Bobby Valentino, Castro has saved his best lyrics for his upcoming project in which he recruited the talents of GRAMMY nominated producers The Audibles, multi-platinum, GRAMMY award-winning songwriter Poo Bear and even rap legend, Snoop Dogg.

With the blessings of his fans, father, former i-15 member and friend, Das and musical inspirations such as User, Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, and the legendary Michael Jackson, it’s only evident the type of finished product we can expect from someone such as Castro, considering who he absorbs influence from.

As mentioned, Castro is currently hard at work crossing from Las Vegas to LA to, prepare to take the music scene by storm with his new album, “You Fetish.” But don’t call it a come back; Let it be known, we are just welcoming Castro home. Stay connected to Third Floor Network and Castro (@Castrosworld_) as there will be an interview with the singer making it’s debut on the site in the near future!

Have You Met Deezy Jonez?

November 3, 2014November 3, 2014 1587Leave a comment

Written By Marina Moreno

As a writer and interviewer, I come across a large mass of talented individuals all aiming for a spot in the hip-hop culture. And by culture I mean a solid spot in the minds of hip-hop heads, sold out venues and respect as an emcee. However, the music industry and rap world is very raw and critical. As a huge hip-hop appreciator myself, it’s safe to admit that hip-hop is the one culture that will either love and fu*k with you, or shrug you off and push your tape to the side. But can you blame us? This game is survival of the fittest and with many emcees stepping up their game independently, (a.k.a. they are a lot smarter about all the pros and cons of the industry), rap has become even more of a “chew you up and spit you out” type of fam. However there is one rapper who is willing to challenge all that we thought we knew. He is, Deezy Jonez.

The Minneapolis, Minnesota bred spitter has been knocking on the door of rap for quite some time. Having already successfully dropped two projects, “Chapo” and “Northern Lights.” it was only proper that Deezy pack up his rhymes and attempt to leave his mark here in Los Angeles, California. Along with his label mates, Just Josh Music Group, Deezy made sure executives, writers, videographers and more, knew exactly who he was; what he was about; and what he was about to do for himself, his family and the Music Retox team fronted by CEO & Day 1 believer, Eldon Peterson.

Straight off the plane in LA, Deezy sat down with “What’s Dropping” host Jorel Quinn at All Def Digital where he offered advice to those on the verge of emerging, spit a LIVE version of his lyrically impactful “Work Flow” on SKEE247’s “The Kick It” show on the new DASH Radio, climbed to the roof of Hip Hop DX for their infamous “Hollywood Freestyle”, snapped photos in Popular Demand gear as YouTube Space LA, stopped to pose for pictures with fans, caught up with his CaliExclusive fam and most importantly wrapped up his first collaborative EP with live arrangement by Just Josh Music Group. Though there’s more stops in which he left his trail, we are going to let it your curiosity linger so that you continue to follow the Minnesota rapper to see where he will be spreading his talents next.

Fast-forwarding, I bet you’re wondering what separates Deezy from every other lyricist, right? Well, we could go on to note and bullet-point various reasons by referring to his music that’s already out for the world to listen to – but we’re not. Lets focus on the fact that Deezy has, what I like to call, “rookie hunger”, leaking from his glands. While on the road with Deezy this past week, it was almost impossible to not feel like you were in the presence of someone who you just knew was destined for major recognition. Constantly confidently spoken, Deezy tackled each meeting with our Third Floor Network friends and each approach with ease. Anyone who is familiar with that “rookie hunger” knows that’s when an emcee goes the hardest at all times, even when the cameras are off. They are at the stage of not paying attention to competition due to the fact that they are too busy focusing on how they are going to detach themselves from the norm. That’s Deezy. He doesn’t give a flying F*ck to any negativity around him because he is positive he will succeed in his career, even when it’s just beginning.

Currently Deezy is prepping for the release of his first EP with live band entitled “Midnight Lusso,” along with the FourXample Productions produced visual to accompany it.

For more visit:
www.deezyjonez.com
Follow @deezyjonez #deezyjonez & #musicretox