KarenCivil.com

In celebration of the 2013 Freshmen Class, XXL Magazine has decided to put a different spin on the introduction of each up and comer with releases of freestyles, music, and  more. But the what is better than seeing a handful of ‘em in a good, classic freestyle cypher? “The XXL Freshmen Cypher, Episode 1″ features the first four up to the plate, Brooklyn-riser Joey Bada$$, G.O.O.D Music and Hustle Gang signee, Travi$ Scott, one third of super-group Black Hippy and TDE representer, Ab-Soul and the Queens, NY and Albanian sensation Action Bronson. Although this only episode one, who do we want to see come out on top? Peep the video above. (more…)

In case you haven’t been keeping up, Atlanta native and Grand Hustle CEO T.I. released a track called “Sorry” featuring Andre 3000 off of his highly anticipated album Trouble Man (due in stores December 18th). The song is generating major buzz from 3 Stacks verse which from the sounds of it, gives us some insight as to why Outkast has been off the map for a bit. After  T.I. explained how the song came together, and Big Boi spoke his sentiments on the verse, Andre 3000 finally had some words on his inspiration behind the song and his reasoning for his flow on the track (and a possible OutKast reunion). For 3 Stacks words, plus videos from T.I. and Big Boi, hit the jump. (more…)

Pharrell and Jermaine Dupri’s protégée Leah LaBelle makes her introduction to the world in her debut video for “Sexify.” Leah is an R&B singer, currently signed to Epic Records/So So Def Recordings. LaBelle was the twelfth place finalist on the third season of American Idol. The video was directed by Sarah Chatfield, with cameos from both Pharrell and Jermaine Dupri.

The “American Idol” alum will release her debut in late summer/early fall. You can preview five tracks from the album including “So Hot,” “Make Me Get Up,” “What Do We Got Lose,” and “Mr. Scissors” below.

Perhaps you’ve heard of Iggy Azalea, and for those who haven’t, consider this your “introduction.” Interscope’s newest golden child recently carved out a piece of her schedule to sit down with yours truly to dive into several topics surrounding her music and her personal life. With many people associating Iggy with the song “Pu$$y,” she notes to expect much more beyond the surface with her forthcoming album. She has much more to offer aside from that song and admits that several issues related to women will be addressed on The New Classic.

From there, Azalea sheds light on why T.I.’s family-oreinated nature was the reason she chose him to be the executive producer for the LP while shooting down rumors Tip will be writing any of her music. Also be sure to check her answers out regarding being taken seriously as a white female rapper and how she hopes her Interscope debut compares to the likes of Eminem’s Slim Shady LP.

He’s been shrouded in controversy over his debut video, arguably the most graphic in years. He’s had the Hip-Hop world fixated on his ‘Perscription’, and now they’re fiending for the ‘Refill.’ During my conversation with Pink City’s own, Pill, he opened up about a barrage of topics including:

• His family
• Growing up in an urban environment
• His first introduction to rapping and his influence

In a round about sense, he spoke about everything, way too much to sit here and attempt to list. You won’t want to miss this. (more…)

I had a chance to sit down with Witchita, Kansas, born rapper, Donovan Johnson, better known as XV. “The  kid with the green backpack”, who created a buzz strictly through his own hustle, opened up about on an array of topics including: his Kansas upbringing, his taste in music and production, how he first met DJ Enuff and future endeavors. XV is gearing up for the release of his next project, the highly anticipated “Everybody’s Nobody”, boasting features from Ne-Yo, Lil Wayne, Colin Munroe, Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean and more. The mixtape drops on July 31 and will be hosted by DJ Enuff and DJ Benzi. (more…)

Once again, I found myself in the same studio, where the Rhymefest & Curren$y interview took place, this time ‘The Introduction‘ brings you RocNation’s first signee J Cole. I heard about Mr. Jermaine Cole from B.Dot at RapRadar a few months back, he went on and on about how he was the next big thing. I did some research on J, and was able to find a few things aboout him, via nahright. After listening to “Grown Simba,” I was hooked! J. Cole & I discuss his deal, college life, music, twitter and everything in between. He also gives us a first listen to “Dollar & Dream” which will be released on his mixtape, coming out next month. The verdict is already in on him, and he is definitely someone to look out for in 2009. If you havent realized it’s lightskin season! Make sure you check out the other inductees into ‘The Introduction“. (more…)

Success in the music industry is notoriously difficult. Whether it be the obstacle of not having the backing of a major label, or the lack of respect and support from superstar rappers and fans alike, the road to stardom is far from easy. Many people have fallen at the hands of these hardships. One man who has thrived in these conditions is California rapper Roccett.  His talent and drive caught the attention of Get Your Green Up Entertainment in 2004, and his partnership with the company, which has worked with notables like Usher and Tupac, has produced a sizable buzz. Having already worked with established stars like Young Jeezy, Fabolous, Killer Mike, Knoc’turn’al and other rappers like Young Buck and Akon at this young stage of his career, as well as having critically acclaimed mixtapes under his belt, Roccett’s talent is clear. With so many dues paid, his industry knowledge and the groundwork set, Roccett is poised to make lasting impression on hip-hop. Roccett is the newest “inductee” to The Introduction.  Learn more about this Cali native as KarenCivil.com takes a ride through New York City with a G.

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