Up North Trips

Somebody from the site just put me on to Up North Trips. I'm telling you that you could easily spend hours just checking out their archive.

Wait are you waiting for? Up North Trips

Blood of Abraham - Future Profits (1993)

Obscure? Yes. Dollar bin purchase? More than likely. Worthy of listening? Most fucking definitely. Maybe it's me but I was always kinda a sucker for any release that Ruthless put out. Who would have ever expected Eazy-E to rip a track with Will.i.am? Future Profits has its hits such as Life, Southern Comfort, Devil Gets No Daps, Niggaz & Jews and my personal favorite Stabbed By The Steeple. Don't sleep on this. Yeah they weren't the best Jewish rappers we've heard of, but B.O.A. were pretty dope in their own right. The producer Epic later went to form Crazy Town and crafted their one-hit wonder "Butterfly." He is the herb in the D.A.R.E. t-shirt (peep the link). If anyone has the "Life (Remix)" please hit me up. --Philaflava

01 Future Profits (Intro)
02 This Great Land Devours (Feat. Junior P.)
03 Southern Comfort (Feat. Willonex)
04 Stick To Your Own Kind (Feat. Yomo)
05 That Ol' Dupree Shit
06 I'm Not The Man
07 Father Of Many Nations
08 Devils Get No Dap (Feat. Rafiki Cai)
09 3-2-1 Contact
10 Stabbed By The Steeple
11 Another Nail In The Coffin
12 Life
13 Niggaz and Jewz (Some Say Kikes) (Feat. Eazy-E and Willonex)
14 Loose Interpretation Of The End (Outro)

Download

Blood of Abraham was an American hip-hop duo composed of Benyad (Benjamin Mor) and Mazik (David Saevitz). They debuted in 1993 with the release of the LP Future Profits on Ruthless Records, the label of the late Eric "Eazy-E" Wright.

A key characteristic of the group was the novelty of their unapologetic Jewish identity. Their best-known track is "Niggaz and Jewz (Some Say Kikes)", an irreverent call for Black-Jewish unity in the face of shared struggle against bigotry. Made at the height of the strain on Black-Jewish relations in the United States. its opening sample was an actual recording^{[citation needed]} of the ravings of a Ku Klux Klansman, and it featured a spirited verse from Eazy-E as well as the first recorded appearance by will.i.am of the Black Eyed Peas known then as Will 1X (the group was then known as "Atban Klann".) Other tracks dealing with Jewish themes were "Father of Many Nations" (a song in praise of the Biblical patriarch Abraham) and "Stick To Your Own Kind".

A video was shot for the track "Stabbed by the Steeple," and print ads were centered around large text proclaiming "Jesus was a Black Jew," but the album did not receive much publicity beyond that. Blood of Abraham fell into anonymity; their status worsened in 1995 with the death of Eazy-E and the subsequent folding of the Ruthless and Relativity Records labels.

Mazik and Benyad then went on hiatus until 2000, which saw the unofficial release of the LP Eyedollartree on Mastergrip Records, which folded shortly thereafter. Eyedollartree featured guest appearances from maverick rappers Kool Keith and Divine Styler, as well as will.i.am. Basement Records oversaw the official release of Eyedollartree (with bonus DVD) in late 2005.

Peace to HQ Hip-Hop for the link.

Exit Throught The Gift Shop (In Threaters Now)

OPENS IN CINEMAS ACROSS THE UNITED STATES BEGINNING APRIL 16TH
For Exact Theaters And Showtimes Check The Official Website: http://www.banksyfilm.com

Exit Through the Gift Shop, the first film by renowned graffiti artist Banksy, became the hottest ticket at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival where it made its world debut. Banksy is a graffiti artist with a global reputation whose work can be seen on walls from post—hurricane New Orleans to the separation barrier on the Palestinian West Bank. Fiercely guarding his anonymity to avoid prosecution, Banksy has so far resisted all attempts to be captured on film. Exit Through the Gift Shop tells the incredible true story of how an eccentric French shop keeper turned documentary maker attempted to locate and befriend Banksy, only to have the artist turn the camera back on its owner with spectacular results. The film contains exclusive footage of Banksy, Shepard Fairey, Invader and many of the worlds most infamous graffiti artists at work, on walls and in interview. As Banksy describes it, Its basically the story of how one man set out to film the un—filmable.

Sounds Like The 90s Vol. 13 (2010)

Nope, you're reading the title right. If I'm being completely honest here, the real reason for the delay was I was just waiting on some good music in 2010. Being that most of the tracks I select for compilations are current I didn't just want to throw something together and label it SLT9s.

For the past two years I've taken ample time in creating this series. In selecting the right tracks, to sequencing them, to finding the best quality mp3s available. I still don't know if there has been an abundance of dope music in '10, but there is there plenty of time left. We're always open to suggestions so continue to leave comments or shoot us an email with the goodness.

Peace to my T.R.O.Y. fam for helping me gather some of these joints. Special shouts go to to Strategy, Blake Reznik, Meyhem Lauren, Ide, Skavenger,Verge, Open Mike Eagle and Dirt Dog for the ill cover. Enjoy Volume 13 and stay tuned for plenty more to come in 2010. --Philaflava

T.R.O.Y. Presents - Sounds Like The 90s Vol. 13

1. Freeway & Jake One – Throw Your Hands Up
2. Black Thought – Contract On The World feat. Dice Raw & Porn
3. The LOX – Slow Down (You’re Killin’ Em)
4. Smiley The Ghetto Child – I’m Legend (prod. DJ Premier)
5. Freddie Gibbs – The Ghetto
6. U.G. – Beat Yo Ass
7. Big Noyd – New York Lights
8. Meyhem Lauren – 7000 Thoughts
9. Roc Marciano - Snow
10. Mobb Deep – Whole Lotta Thug (prod. Alchemist)
11. Sadat X – Turn It Up feat. Pete Rock
12. Consequence – Let U Live feat. Pharoahe Monch
13. Ski Beatz – Prowler 2 ft. Jean Grae, Jay Electronica, Joell Ortiz & Mos Def
14. Wu-Massacre - Dangerous
15. U.G. – My Soldiers feat. Steele & Casual
16. Open Mike Eagle – Unapologetic feat. Nocando
17. Planet Asia & Goldchain Military – Organic Food (prod. Large Professor)
18. Tanya Morgan - Cheesesteak
19. Meyhem Lauren – Treat Her Like A Prostitute feat. Thristin Howl III
20. Brotha Lynch Hung - Meat

Download
Download #2

Related:
(Download) Sounds Like The 90s Volumes 1-12

The Geto Boys - The Geto Boys (Orginal Version)

Just a little Sunday treat for you. This is the O.G. version and for those that don't know what I'm talking about... --Philaflava

This is the Geto Boys 1990 self-titled album, the original version, before it was shelved by the record company. You see, the Geto Boys used a sample from the Steve Miller Band song "The Joker," on track #4, Gangster of Love. This however, was an unlicensed sample, and Steve Miller sued the record company over its use, to which the record company decided to shelve this album. This album was the Geto Boys first album available nationally, while all their previous releases as the Ghetto Boys were on a more local/regional level. This sample was also used on their earlier version of this album as the Ghetto Boys called Grip It On That Other Level. However, it was also a different recording session and so it was a completely different take and did not sound the same lyrically/vocally.

After a couple years, the Geto Boys had released more albums and gained in considerable popularity. The record company decided to re-release this album, but with an altered backing track for Gangster of Love. The altered version utilized a sample of Lynyrd Skynyrd's Sweet Home Alabama and a "Gangsta Boogie" sample for the chorus. For those who purchased the re-release of the Geto Boys self-titled album, they got this new version of the song which if you think about it, doesn't make as much sense as the original version which samples Steve Miller saying "call me...call me...yeah, call me the gangster of love." Anyhow, it seems that everyone who has ripped this album and put it online, has put the re-release version online. Well I have come to save the day and give you all the original out-of-print version that came out in 1990.

1. F#@* 'Em

2. Size Ain't s**t
3. Mind Of A Lunatic
4. Gangster Of Love
5. Trigga Happy Nigga
6. Life In The Fast Lane
7. Assassins
8. Do It Like A G.O.
9. Read These Nikes
0. Talkin' Loud Ain't Saying Nothin'
11. Scarface
12. Let A Ho Be A Ho
13. City Under Siege

Download

Peace to KingSkullie for the rip and GUCCI C for the link.

Timeline of the T.R.O.Y. Weekly Request Threads

Part of the mass appeal of the T.R.O.Y. blog and forum is that we constantly put in work.


Here's a recap of the request threads that've gone on in the T.R.O.Y forum so far: There is an official request thread and then there’s the weekly threads, so if you've been missin' out, you might want to review the last more than a year's worth of weekly request threads (whether to dig for rare and exclusive gems or to remind you of everything else you are still looking for):

Mostly Weekly Request Thread #001 - 10/16/2008
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #002 - 10/20/2008
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #003 - 11/10/2008
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #004 - 11/24/2008
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #005 - 12/01/2008
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #006 - 12/12/2008
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #007 - 12/22/2008
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #008 - 01/06/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #009 - 01/15/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #010 - 01/25/2009

Mostly Weekly Request Thread #011 - 02/01/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #012 - 02/09/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #013 - 02/17/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #014 - 02/23/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #015 - 03/06/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #016 - 03/19/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #017 - 04/04/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #018 - 05/01/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #019 - 06/01/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #020 - 07/12/2009

Mostly Weekly Request Thread #021 - 08/02/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #022 - 08/23/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #023 - 08/31/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #024 - 09/07/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #025 - 09/14/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #026 - 09/21/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #027 - 09/28/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #028 - 10/05/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #029 - 10/12/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #030 - 10/19/2009

Mostly Weekly Request Thread #031 - 10/26/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #032 - 11/02/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #033 - 11/09/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #034 - 11/16/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #035 - 11/23/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #036 - 11/30/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #037 - 12/07/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #038 - 12/14/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #039 - 12/21/2009
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #040 - 12/28/2009

Mostly Weekly Request Thread #041 - 01/05/2010
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #042 - 01/11/2010
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #043 - 01/18/2010
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #044 - 01/25/2010
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #045 - 02/01/2010
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #046 - 02/09/2010
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #047 - 02/15/2010
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #048 - 02/23/2010
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #049 - 03/01/2010
Mostly Weekly Request Thread #050 - 03/08/2010

Mr. Philaflava, Jason Gloss, began exploring the concept of weekly request threads around the time the T.R.O.Y. blog started up, creating the first eight threads. That then switched to Jaz at the start of last year who held it down through the twenty first one (with Verge actually creating the twentieth one). Since then Odnet has been runnin' things. I couldn't even begin to list all the contributors.

Start checkin' it out when you have the time, there's no way that you won't find something that you both enjoy and haven't heard before. Stop by and ask for the impossible (I know I have and it's actually worked for me more than once) or try to help out if you think you can contribute. You'll be surprised by what you can find.

-- The Big Sleep

Spring Break

It's about that time here on TROY. No worries, we will be back in full effect shortly. We'll even be posting sporadically for the next week while we enjoy our break. Take the time to catch-up on all of our greatest hits, misses and '10 darts. Remember about our ever-growing forum, which is hands down the BEST FORUM on the internet dedicated to the Golden Era where we drop knowledge, share music and relive the best of times. We're still all up on Twitter, Myspace and Facebook so don't forget to add us too!

Lastly, our sister blog, Steady Bloggin' is still grinding so feel free to check them out and lend your support. Enjoy the spring back and see you soon.

Important Links:
Philaflava Forums
Steady Bloggin'
T.R.O.Y. Facebook
Actual Facts
Cold Rock Da Spot
Scratch Reaction

Rick Rubin

Not much to say about this man, other than he is a fucking GOD. Peep Robbie's piece on Ricky Rubin @ Unkut. Props to him and his site for always delivering the freshness. --Philaflava

When Rick Rubin is written about in the media, he is either portrayed as “the most important producer of the last 20 years” or as the shaggy ‘Wolfboy’ guru who carries lapis lazuli Buddhist prayer beads and dislikes footwear. While many of the startlingly broad range of musicians that have worked with Rick gush his praises, there seem to be just as many who were left disappointed by the experience. For every successful creative rebirth that Rubin has been involved in – such as reviving the careers of Metallica, Johnny Cash and The Dixie Chicks – there are also the aborted projects with groups like U2 and Muse.

Rubin’s approach seems to be all about making a connection with the artist he’s working with: “I have no training, no technical skill — it’s only this ability to listen and try to coach the artist to be the best they can from the perspective of a fan”. This approach doesn’t sit well with everyone, as bands such as Slipknot have complained that they didn’t enjoy working with him since he was barely present during the project he produced (but they were happy with the album), while shots were fired by British rockers Muse earlier this year when they thanked Rick for “showing us how not to produce” during an acceptance speech at the Music Producers Guild (amusingly, it turns out that Rubin won ‘International Producer of the Year’ that same evening).

But sour grapes seem to be the exception rather than the rule, as groups like the Red Hot Chilli Peppers can attest to after five albums with Rick’s involvement. “He basically goes into the engineer’s booth, removes everything in the room and has his people bring in the most comfortable couch-bed-type object that you’ll ever see. Then he’ll cover it with pillows and blankets, and that becomes his station.” Through this process, he often becomes ‘the fifth Beatle’, dating back to his stint as DJ Double R for the Beastie Boys first national exposure on Madonna’s ‘Like A Virgin’ tour. Even though Jazzy Jay and Ad Rock did some the programming for some of Rick’s early Def Jam records, there’s no denying that he was able to bring a sorely-needed, stripped-down aesthetic to the rap records of the era.

“I was going to NYU [New York University] and I was into rap music at the time, but there weren’t a lot of rap records coming out; and the rap records that were coming out weren’t representative of what the rap scene really was. I used to go to the rap clubs in New York—I’d be the only white guy there—and they’d be playing rock ‘n roll records with guys rapping over them. Like ‘Walk This Way’. ‘Walk This Way’ was an original record that every rap DJ would have and use. Billy Squire’s ‘Big Beat’ was another one. And the rap records that were coming out at the time were like Sugar Hill Records, which were essentially disco records with people rapping over them. Kids who liked rap bought them because there weren’t any records representative of their rap scene. So, I saw this void and starting making those records, just because I was a fan and wanted them to exist.”

The result? Radio, Licensed to Ill and Raising Hell – three of the most influential hip-hop albums of the 80’s – all of which combined abrasive, speaker-smashing drums with hard guitar stabs and traditional song structures. The last point being the most significant in terms of getting the music to a wider (read: white) audience who’d been raised on rock. He also championed the cause of Public Enemy: “I remember my old partner Russell Simmons, when I signed Public Enemy – I’d just made the Less Than Zero soundtrack and it was really good and The Bangles’ record was a hit – and Russell said, ‘You’re wasting your time. This is black punk rock. This is garbage. You could make pop records, why are you wasting your time on Public Enemy?’ I said, ‘Because they’re the greatest group in the world. Because the pop records are the ones that aren’t important. This is what’s important, you’ll see.’ And two years later, he saw”.

Rick directed his attention to heavy metal following his departure from Def Jam, but when he started the Def American label he proved that he still had an ear for great rap by re-recording the best of the Geto Boys for their self-titled third LP, as well as an under-appreciated EP from former Audio Two MC Milk D. It wasn’t until Jay-Z reached out to Rick that he would produced another rap track, but the result was another prime example of minimalist beat science at it’s best. Since being appointed as co-head of Columbia records in 2007, Rubin has only signed one rap act – The Clipse. Last year it was announced that the crew would be working with Rick on their new album, but Till The Casket Drops was eventually released without any Rubin beats. “We went out to Malibu man, busted out with him. He gave us a lot of insight on the album and gave us some gems man. We came back, sorta re-vamped a few things and uh, you know, made the album a lot better due to that talk, for real. Definitely, it’s the reason he’s sitting in that [executive] seat”.

Something that came as a shock to me was the discovery that Rubin doesn’t drink booze or get high. It seems that even in his college days, White Castle burgers and porn were his only vices. “I’m just not interested. I need to be in control” he told German magazine Shark, while in a USA Today profile, Rick explained, “It’s the combination of meditating and always being deeply into something. When I was young, I was into magic. Kids I knew did drugs or got drunk out of boredom. I didn’t want to give up my time.” Some of the projects that he’s chosen to take on board might also have fans scratching their heads. Linkin Park? Mars Volta? Mel C from the Spice Girls? I guess that trying to challenge yourself musically requires sacrificing good taste on occasion. But when you’re able to convince Johnny Cash to record a version of a Nine Inch Nails track – and in the process create one of the greatest cover songs ever made – it’s hard to complain. I think this 2007 piece in TIME sum him up best: “Rick Rubin enjoys long walks on the beach, sushi dinners and hugs that warm the corners of the soul. Behind the ZZ Top exterior lurks the soul of a Playmate”.

http://www.unkut.com/2010/04/rick-rubin-the-man-the-myth

I-Power 1993-1994

Just a quick drop today. Here are two super-dope vinyl only releases from I-Power. We believe most of the vinyl is sold-out; however we suggest you contact DJ Mo Funk directly (see below) for info. Peace to Verge for the 320 rips. --Philaflava

A1 Play Da Back
A2 Break Da Rulez
A3 Alternative
B1 Props, Loot & Credit Remix
B2 Fast Cash
B3 Today's Signs

Download

A1 Test Da Spirit
A2 Ruff Draft
A3 Da Nation's Amp
B1 Rock Da Spot
B2 Ruff Draft (Remix)
B3 Rock Da Spot (Instrumental)

Download

For more info hit up djmofunk@hotmail.com

Is Philly the 2nd most important city to Hip-Hop?

I'm just speaking for me, not the blog but I also believe it's a very legit question too. When you put it down on paper and realize all of the Philly legends, microphone masters, turntable technicians, classics hits and summer anthems it's an argument worth making.

Obviously, NYC is number one but when you think about how Philly changed the game and continues to deliver the top talent what city/state takes its spot? L.A? Atlanta? Jersey? Houston? Detroit? Think about it...

Here are just some (not complete) of some Philly representatives.

Schoolly D
Steady B
DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince
DJ Cash Money
Three Times Dope
The Roots
Beanie Sigel
Freeway
Kurupt
Bahamadia
Jedi Mind Trick
Dice Raw
Eve
CHOPS
Peedi Crakk
Cassidy
Rosco P. Coldchain
Gillie Da Kid
Sandman
iCON
Chief Kamachi
Reef The Lost Cauze
Outerspace
Maylay Sparks
Baby Blak
Young Chris
Truck North
Ram Squad
Mountain Brothers
100x
Tasc4orce
Jamal (Illegal)
Dat Fat Cat Clique
The Kartel
Last Emperor
Da Youngsta's
Munk Wit Da Funk
Grand Agent
Known Rulers
High & Mighty
Philly's Most Wanted

So what do you think? Click here to vote

1998-2002 Indie Era T.R.O.Y. Challenge

With another T.R.O.Y. challenge on and poppin' we got a lot of downloading to do. Take some time and check out these dope mixes. We'll be voting this Monday on the best one. Enjoy the weekend! --Philaflava

Woofy's Mix
01-Team Demolition - Odessa's on the Wheels Again (2000)
02-Vyle - Post-Paleaeontologist (2002)
03-Serengeti - Paper Plates (2002)
04-Carl Kavorkian - Scatter Brain (2002)
05-Hi-Fidel & DJ Crucial - Vega (2002)
06-Left - Wandering (2002)
07-Mozes Gunn - Bombageddon (2000)
08-Dreamweavers - Co2 (2001)
09-Greek - the Perfect Storm (2002)
10-Butterfly Swift - Pulsar Star (2002)
11-Mic. T - Supreme Delux (2000)
12-the Nothing - Who R U (1998)
13-Sprawlic Stream - Rite of Passage (1999)
14-the Writers Guild - Tear Jerka (2000)

Boothe's Mix
High & Mighty - B-Boy Document (1998)
Aceyalone - Accepted Eclectic (2000)
Matt Fingaz, Punchline & Wordsworth - Just Ask Us (1999)
Mos Def & Talib Kweli - Another World (Ambivalence Remix) (1998)
Natural Resource - Heavy Loungin (1999)
Ed O.G. - Sayin' Somethin' (2000)
Polyrhythm Addicts - Big Phat Boom (1999)
Pep Love - Trinity Lost (1999)
J-Rawls - Turn It Forward (2002)
Hobo Junction - On A Scope (1999)
Swollen Members - Bless + Destroy (1999)
Joey Chavez - Reservation 4 One (1998)

Freezy Pazzy - TROY Indie Mix ('98 To '02)
1/ CAGE "Too Much" (2002)
2/ BLAHZAY BLAHZAY "Good For Ya Club" (1999)
3/ DEFARI "Say It Twice" (2000)
4/ POLYRHYTHM ADDICTS "Take Me Home" (1999)
5/ COMPANY FLOW "End To End Burners" (1998)
6/ INSIGHT feat. Mr LIF "Universal" (2000)
7/ J-ZONE feat. HUGGY, KOBAYASHI & TRIP "Candy Razors" (1998)
8/ LARGE PROFESSOR & NEEK THE EXOTIC "Rhyme Mania '99" (1999)
9/ MONEY BAZZ "New York New York" (1998)
10/ ED O.G. "I Feel You" (1998)
11/ OKTOBER "10452" (2001)
12/ QNC "Gotta Give" (2002)
13/ DECLAIME feat. MEDAPHOAR "Do That Dance" (2001)
14/ RASCO "Run The Line" (1999)

Verge's Mix
01. Self Scientific - Return (1998)
02. Eternal Meazure - Reign Supreme (1999)
03. Juggaknots - WKRP In NYC (2001)
04. Poetic - Savior (1998)
05. W.A.R. - Fix Your Face (2000)
06. 50/50 - Something Ain't Right (J Force Remix) (1999)
07. Mudkidz - Water To Earth H2O (1998)
08. Mass Influence - Space Cases (1998)
09. C Rayz Walz - Degrees (2001)
10. Louis Logic - Factotum (2000)
11. Binary Star - Glen Close (1999)
12. Last Emperor - Charlie (1999)
13. Yah Supreme - Winter In Brooklyn (2002)

Markshot's Mix
01. Insight - Music Lover (2002)
02. One Man Army - Take It 2 The Stage Feat. Decompoze (2002)
03. Thirstin Howl III - The Polorican (1999)
04. Edan - Beautiful Food (2002)
05. L'Roneous Da'Versifier - Doctrines Of The Lip Swift (2002)
06. Virtuoso - One (2001)
07. Motion Man - Play Dough (2002)
08. The Bad Seed - Pockets (2001)
09. Micranots - Queen Supreme (2000)
10. People Under The Stairs - Yehaw Partystyles (2000)
11. J-Live - Wax Paper (1999 or 2001)
12. Athletic Mic League - Trouble (2002)
13. Masters Of Illusion - Time 2 Get Right (2000)
14. All Natural - Renaissance Feat. Lone Catalysts (2001)

Nojiveturkey's Mix
1. A.T.S - Ariginal Trend Setters (2001)
2. Fousion of Syllabes - Bed of Nailz (2001)
3. Cre8 - Cre8ivity (2002)
4. J-Zone - Kizzy's Revenge (1999)
5. Dynamic Syncopation - Dedicated (1999)
6. Tame One - Doin Me (2000)
7. Third Sight - Gas Chamber (1999)
8. Rubix - Elegy (2001)
9. Discreet Merchants - Mouth of Madness (2000)
10. Bamboo - From the Get Up (1999)
11. Sub Contents - Tables Turn (1999)
12. Mathematik - Learn to Earn (2000)

1998-2002 Indie Era T.R.O.Y. Challenge by aREAL:
01-Dirty Face Angels - MOElogical (1999)
02-Godfather Don - Live And Let Die (1999)
03-The B.L.U.N.T.E.D Crew - Keep Your Head (1999)
04-Gauge The Mental Murdarah - Bring It To Me (1999)
05-Rawcotiks - Real Heads (1999)
06-Amo Lab - New Days (1998)
07-Sci-Fi & Hands - Poison Of Choice (2001)
08-Kutfather - Thoughts I Generate (1998)
09-Ship Of Fools - Claiming Your Style (1998)
10-Superscientifiku - Taking Of The Days (2002)
11-Anomos & Stealth - Club Crucial (1998)
12-2 Tone Committee - One (2002)

Aleph's Mix (link coming soon)
01 DJ Spinna- Joc Max Preface (1999 Rawkus)
02 Encore- It's Time (Ode to Breaking Atoms) (2001 Brick)
03 Beans- Nude Paper (2000 Mo'Wax)
04 Murs- 24 Hrs W/a G (2000 Veritech)
05 Unspoken Heard- The Music (1999 Seven Heads)
06 Jedi Son of Spock- The Journey (1998 Head Bop)
07 Dr. Oop- Deep Impact (1998 PUTS)
08 All Natural- It's OK (1998 All Natural)
09 Stronghold- Big As Ya Mouth (2001 Stronghold)
10 Tame One- Torture Chamber (1999 Fat Beats)
11 Styles Of Beyond- Ambiguous Figures (1999 Loosegroove)
12 Sadat X- Minneapolis (2002 Up Above)
13 Pumpkinhead- Dynamic (remix) (1998 Makin')

Operation: Fuck Solar (again)

Sorry for beating a dead horse, but apparently it isn't dead yet. Our homie YN had a little something to add to our operation and until we see change I don't see why we would stop reporting on it.

Who are you and what have you done with Guru? Seriously, we go from the emotional rollercoaster ride of thinkin' we're gonna lose one of the game's greatest MCs to some sick pathetic soap opera involving a man of no blood or kin relation denying family members the right to see their loved one. Now yes Keith Elam may not wanna reconcile with folks he hasn't been on good terms with for the past seven years but that's his decision not yours. From the outside lookin' in, you seem really shady. And if Guru's nephew claim is true that you signed documents as Keith Elam's brother and your wife as his sister than that's just plain alarming. An abuse of power. Releasing statements to websites and official Twitter accounts in Guru's name when he doesn't appear to be able to speak on his own behalf is also misleading and completely wrong. Be clear: At this point the only thing relevant and important is the status of Guru's health. Nobody gives a fuck about you or 7 Grand. Guru's legacy is Gang Starr. DJ Premier and Guru made classics. You and Guru make crap. And you should get slapped for meddling in family business.

How many blogs, rappers, producers, fans or family members must it take to get a honest update without any Joe Jackson-like opportunist agendas thrown in the mix? --Philaflava

Update on Guru's health

GURU'S HEALTH STATUS IS STABLE, NOT IN COMA; ISSUES OFFICIAL STATEMENT

UPDATE: Guru is diagnosed by his doctors as ailing from Anoxia due to his history of lung problems and asthma. Guru is NOT in coma and he continues to recover. The doctors are hopeful for a full recovery. Thoughts and prayers have been with legendary Hip-Hop emcee Guru since his hospitalization earlier this month due to a heart attack. Solar, the rapper's longtime partner and best friend, said Guru has a history of lung problems and asthma and is slowly recovering. Guru, born Keith Elam, recently disclosed his first statement, assuring the public that he is recuperating, and that his producer Solar will stand as his representative during his recovery. "I am doing fine and I am recovering! I'm weak though," Guru said. "Solar is the only person who has the accurate info on my situation. Any info from anybody else is false. I appreciate your well wishes and all the love!" The producer expressed similar sentiments about the rapper's health status, saying: "Guru is resting and doing well. The doctors say that he will fully recover from his illness. We thank everyone who send prayers our way and we appreciate the outpouring of love from fans around the world!" There are a lot of rumors and false allegations circulating around, but Guru explicitly named Solar his official spokesperson and the hit producer is taking this position very seriously. "Guru has entrusted me to be accurate and truthful in relaying information to the media," Solar said. The producer is in constant contact with Guru's relatives like the MC's father and brother who have visited the legendary rapper numerous times. "When a patient is in such critical conditions it is very common that not everyone is allowed to enter the room, especially when Mr. Keith Elam doesn't want to see certain people," one of Guru's doctors said. Many Hip-Hop artists from around the world sent well wishes to Guru but some people from his past are trying to shed bad light on his partner Solar for his position in this situation. In a previous interview with AllHipHop.com, Guru made it clear that he and his former deejay and some people he used to work with were never that close. "People ask me about [...] all that. We were never all that close. We hooked up in the studio and did great music, but we were never hanging and all that cool. Solar and I, we got tight before we even started doing music." Guru, the sole founder of the world-famous Hip-Hop duo GangStarr, is reluctant to talk about his GangStarr past, especially his ex-DJ who he hasn't spoken to in over 7 years. "That's something I don't want to talk about. I don't want to talk about the past. The past is the past. It is what it is. It was great, but that was then and this is now." said Guru. Doctors have not given any indication as to when Guru might be released, but the rapper is touched by the fan support. "The outpouring of love from around the world has been tremendous," Solar said. "I'm reading some of the best e-mails, texts and Twitters that come in and Guru enjoys them. I think that's what has been helping his recovery and what's got him in there fighting." During what must be an incredibly hard and stressful period in life, keep sending your prayers, thoughts, and wishes to Guru, Solar and his loved ones. In homage to Guru and his outstanding career, his record label 7 Grand Records decided to upload all his classic music videos to the label's official YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/7grandrecords. WEBSITES www.myspace.com/guru7grand www.twitter.com/gurugangstarr www.youtube.com/7grandrecords www.myspace.com/gangstarr Audio File of Solar being Solar

Attn: Bumpy Knuckles - Please Destroy Solar

Okay this shit won't end. Apparently Guru ain't recovering like we had hoped. All the online statements have been bullshit. I don't know how ANYONE can watch these videos and read what has been posted by fellow bloggers, rappers and friends of Guru and still have the nerve to defend Solar. The man is Suge Knighting him and if this continues he'll end up just like Pac did.

I don't know what its going to take but holla at me @bumpyknuckles because I will gladly Paypal you some coin to remove this cancer that is eating away our homie Guru. Every day that passes is just another day of lies, manipulation and greed. Every fan, friend and supporter of the Gang Starr Foundation has to continue to spread the word and continue to pray for Guru. We cannot allow a no-talent hack like Solar do this much damage to a person, the foundation and more importantly the Elam family. He must be removed by any means necessary. Word is bond!





Related:

Solar kills Gang Starr
Exclusive interview with Guru and Solar

Solar (Yoko Ono) kills Gang Starr

Let's all call a spade a spade. No more sugar coating shit and no more politically correctness. Since Solar has been involved in Guru's career not only has Guru slipped into obscurity but now into a coma. Before you dare come to his defense once again check out the video below. Just read a few press releases he's (Solar) given over the past week.

I'm sure we'll get some emails from his publicist and a few trolls defending him in the comment section but everyone we've ever spoken to that has MEANT something to Hip-hop, some of the most respected rappers and producers today seem to share the same opinion--Solar ruined Guru. Now I don't know what bet Guru lost or how much he is in debt to Solar, but clearly Solar has an agenda and way more control over Guru, his music and health than any business partner (or person) ever should.

Nobody can say Guru has made better music with Solar. Nobody can say Guru has been a better person with Solar. Not one person, friend or family will say Guru has been a happier person with Solar.

I'm not out to assassinate Solar and or career, but without Guru not a single person would have even known or cared who he was. We're not talking about MC Solar from France here. I've spoken with some of the greatest industry figures today and they all say the same thing, Solar is an opportunist who has Guru under a spell. Publicists hate him. Fans of Gang Starr weep and now Guru's own family is ex-communicated. Enough is enough.

I pray Guru pulls through, but I also pray this puts an end to all the ridiculous beef between Mr. Elam and Mr. Martin. If one good thing comes out of this besides, it's that we'll we finally see what WE ALL want to, Gang Starr reuniting.

And before you get it twisted there has been NO other blog with the exception of Preems that has showed love and support to both Guru and DJ Premier.

Check out our interview with Guru and Solar from from last year.

Sincerely,

Every hip-hop fan in the world


(AllHipHop News) Revered rapper Guru released a statement to AllHipHop.com today (March 3) as he recovers from surgery after suffering a heart attack over the weekend.

Guru, born Keith Elam, was briefly comatose due to the heart attack. Doctors successfully operated on the 43-year-old MC on Tuesday (March 2).

"I am doing fine and I am recovering! I'm weak though,” Guru told AllHipHop.com in a statement today. “Solar is the only person who has the accurate info on my situation. Any info from anybody else is false! I appreciate your well wishes and all the love!"

Guru and his family are asking for privacy as he recovers and stressed for fans to continue to send prayers, thoughts and love.

His partner Solar echoed Guru’s comments about the need for privacy but told fans the outlook is positive for the rapper.

Additionally, only Solar will have access to Guru and accurate information regarding the status of his health.

"Guru is resting and doing well after his surgery,” Solar told AllHipHop.com. “The doctors say that he will fully recover from his illness. We thank everyone who send prayers our way and we appreciate the outpouring of love from around the world!”

Solar can be reached by contacting a representative for his publicity firm, Yo-Pr.com.

Guru in a coma?

If anyone has info about this please let us know. We're told his sister Tricia said he is currently in a coma after suffering from cardiac arrest. Our prayers go out to Keith Elam and his family. --Philaflava

Put your hands together...

You might be scratching your head right wondering what this post is about but if you're familiar with the above clip you'll know exactly where I'm going. For a few years now The T.R.O.Y. Blog has been putting in work day in and day out. Sometimes you have to sit back and just marvel at what we've accomplishment throughout these years. You just have to.

It's true we've lost some great contributors over the years, but we've also gained some great contributors as well. See T.R.O.Y. has never been about one person, it's has always been a collaborative effort. It's important to remind you all of the work that is put in. From the ripping to the writing to the tagging to the scheduling. It's no secret we do this blog for you. So allow us to bask in our glory, to ego trip or even just be on our own dicks because pound for pound there isn't a throwback blog that is even on our level. I'm certainly not trying to paint us as the smug blog, but we're confident in the work we've done and will continue to do.

2010 started off with strong and hasn't stopped one bit. Sounds Like The 90s will resume in March, the Producer Spotlights and Touring The States both will be in full E.F.F.E.C.T. too. Our brother from another blogger, Thun Diddy will be debuting his new blog Actual Facts very soon as well.

As you can see we're expanding and tackling new eras, new subjects and trying our best to hit you from every Kurt Angle. But for now, sit back, relax, maybe catch up on some our of latest pieces and get ready for us to do our thug thizzle in 2010. Thank you for your continued support, your motivation, praise, hate and most importantly your time.

Sincerely,

The T.R.O.Y. Blog Squad

Cenzi Stiles
dirt_dog
Echo Leader
Markshot
Philaflava
Schenectady Fan
ThomasV
Verge
Vincent Lopez

Remember Nine (Double M)?

Been a minute since we heard from Mr. Keyes. Props to Fred Espinosa for the video. --Philaflava

Nine from Fred Espinosa on Vimeo.

MC Ren vs. Tame One

The finals are here and it's an ass whooping so far. --Philaflava

Click here to vote!

King Tee The Great

I shouldn't have to sell you on King Tees greatness. In my book he is one of the most underrated emcees of all-time. When I think of real O.G.'s Tee is one of the first names that comes to mind. Along with the likes of MC Ren, King Tee kills most of the guest spots he gets. To give you a better idea here are two compilations filled with King Tee collabos from 1988-2009. For bonus tracks make sure you check out the great T.R.O.Y. forum where everyday is like Christmas.

Take a moment to thank Paul Smith for taking the time in putting these great compilations together. --Philaflava

King Tee The Great

01. Mixmaster Spade featuring King Tee & The Compton Posse - Genuis Is Back
02. King Tee, Body & Soul, Def Jeff, Tone Loc, Above The Law, N.W.A., Michel'le, Digital Underground, Young MC, Ice-T, Oaktown 3.5.7, MC Hammer & J.J. Fad - We're All In The Same Gang
03. King Tee, Body & Soul, Def Jeff, Tone Loc, Above The Law, N.W.A., Michel'le, Digital Underground, Young MC, Ice-T, Oaktown 3.5.7, MC Hammer & J.J. Fad - We're All In The Same Gang (Gangsta Mix)
04. Ice Cube ft. W.C. & The Maad Circle, Kam, King Tee, Deadly Threat & J-Dee - Color Blind
05. Intelligent Hoodlum, King Tee, Chubb Rock, Def Jeff, Grand Puba (Rap Industry For Social Evolution) - Keep Control
06. B-Real, Ice Cube, J-Dee, Kam, King Tee, MC Eiht, Threat & Yo-Yo (Get The Fist Movement) - Get The Fist
07. Tha Alkaholiks ft. King Tee - Likwit
08. Tha Alkaholiks ft. King Tee - Bullshit
09. Mad Kap ft. King Tee, Ahlee Rocksta & Tash - Check It Out
10. Nefertiti ft. King Tee & Nikke Kixx - Trouble In Paradise
11. Tha Alkaholiks ft. King Tee - Bottoms Up
12. Tha Alkaholiks ft. King Tee & Q-Tip - All The Way Live
13. Xzibit ft. King Tee - Positively Negative
14. Born 2wice ft. King Tee - The Jack
15. Dazzie Dee ft. King Tee, Mixmaster Spade & Toddy Tee - Where You From (Westside Hoodsta Remix)
16. King Tee - Stretch & Bobbitto Freestyle
17. Tha Alkaholiks ft. King Tee - Funny Style

Download Disc 1 (fixed)

01. Xzibit ft. Tha Alkaholiks & King Tee - Let It Rain
02. Xzibit ft. King Tee & Soopafly - Don't Let The Money Make You
03. Ice-T ft. King Tee - Check Your Game
04. Defari, Xzibit, Knoc-Turn'al, Time Bomb, King Tee, MC Ren & Kokane - Some L.A. Niggaz
05. Xzibit, The Alkaholiks & King Tee - Where Da Paper At
06. Cypress Hill ft. Kurupt & King Tee - High Life (Fredwreck Remix)
07. Xzibit & King Tee - You Better Believe It
08. T.W.D.Y. ft. Casual, G-Stak, Keak Da Sneak & King Tee - No Win Situation
09. King Tee - Cali Expert
10. Xzibit ft. Butch Cassidy, Defari & King Tee - Loud & Clear
11. Masta Ace ft. King Tee & J-Ro - P.T.A.
12. Cypress Hill ft. King Tee & MC Ren- Southland Killers
13. Killa Tay feat. ''E'', King Tee & Rodney O - Thug Thizzle
14. Chico & Coolwadda ft. King Tee, Doughnut & The Homie E - Insomniac
15. Tha Alkaholiks ft. King Tee - The Bubble
16. J-Zone ft. J-Ro & King Tee - Choir Practice
17. Tha Alkaholiks ft. King Tee - Over Here
18. Xzibit ft. DJ Quik & King Tee - Poppin' Off
19. DJ Crazy Toones ft. King Tee, Young Maylay & Roscoe - The Rat Pack

Download Disc 2 (fixed)