Thursday, December 13, 2007

Breathe 2007



I want to give thanks to Pumpkinhead and Mazzi, The Cool Kidz, SouthPaw, Pharoahe Monch, and everyone that performed and came out to this event. In memory of my brother and to continue advocating Asthma Awareness through music and expression yes the event is called Breathe spread the message.

joey

Sorry for the DELAY!!! UPDATE FOR 07




Ok yes a lot has happened, my new job, my new found love for photography, industry parties, reconnecting with friends, and everything still remains fresh, I will post pics of random events and peoples for your pleasure...enjoy

joey too fresh

Monday, October 15, 2007

Pics of friends of mine



Ralph McDaniels
DJ Whiz
Jessica,Grace,and Timoney from Sony BMG
DJ Spinna
DJ Eddie S
DJ Ras
DJ Samir
Zelda Kaplan
Langston
Brina Payne
UTFO
Ced G
Dana Dane
DJ Vettie Vette
Melissa
Barry The Maestro Mason

A night out with a New York City Icon and My Mom



This night was an experience of a life time hanging with two of my inspirations one of course is my mom (Grace Edwards) yes the fashion designer and her friend Zelda Kaplan whom is a New York City Icon in the club scene. Zelda is 91 years old full of energy and just a very nice lady that gets into all the high end clubs. We started at Socilista a cuban influenced lounge and restaurant. Very nice atmosphere and the food is alright with a lounge upstairs that they let a select few in with a big and small (midget) doorman choosing who goes in. They let us upstairs. Now the dj booth was mad small and he was just playing some randomness no blending of course but hey it pleased the small crowd that was at the bar. Mind you this is on a weekday, very good time to go out and meet REAL New Yorkers!!

After Socialista we hopped to Lotus where there was a line and we got right in thanks to Zelda where the door people once again knew and greeted her and me and my moms as well. Lotus was having a crazy event for L magazine an award show for best of in New York alot of different people of the nightlife all in one place from very Gay to all the night people lol I was just imagining that one day L magazine will award Nicole Nelche, Erin, and Peggy Louis, for the dope parties. Maybe next one lol
Got to meet a few of my moms (interesting) friends who are in the fashion industry. Richie Rich and Andre.


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Oh yeah shout out to Justine D who won an award for L magazine, she was not there to accept the award.
So after a few drinks we took a cab to Rose Bar another High end spot thats hard to get into unless your known or an icon lol Nice spot with a fire place once again so dude in a small booth playing randomness to the younger rich crowd, you can just tell.The young rich crowd reminds me of international school with everyone from all parts of the world chillin out in little groups. It was comfy and once again cheers!!


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Last but not least Bungalo 8 dont ask me why this club is high end, I guess its the people that go there. Sorry no pics were allowed in the club, I dunno how I felt about this place and why I was not so amazed. I guess the bouncer that yelled at my mom ruined it for me, I was giving him the death look but yeah what goes around comes around some dude will yell at his mom and then what!!! But my mom and Zelda were tipsy mind you I had white wine and champagne all night..

I did have a good time when talking to Zelda about the differences on night life now and then she said back then it was all about live music and love now its that BOOM BOOM too much bass and agressiveness...Interesting...
I want to thank my mom for giving me this experience.


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joey

Monday, October 8, 2007

MC Lyte Happy Birthday!! and UTFO Live!!! Hip-Hop Weekend exclusive



Happy Birthday MC Lyte!! Adidas store was packed, music provided by DJ Soul and a lot of familiar faces Dres from Black Sheep, Kwame, Jennifer Hudson (Dream Girls),Special Ed, The Bomb Squad, Linque, DJ Whiz, and the flashback kids lol It was good to meet Lyte and her parents, the bodygaurd and Gizmo from Audio Two. Peace to the people from Think Tank,Prince from Kwebo,Audrey and Shelpa,and my Vettie Vette, with after party special guest Slimkat78 from DC!!My camera didnt make it this evening but get ready for....






Hip-Hop Honors weekend at M15 hosted by Video Mix Party with DJ Whiz, Ralph McDaniels,
The Awesome Two, Dana Dane and Big Ced. This was a classic evening with the legendary UTFO who just got together to perform was amazing.Doctor Ice, The Kangol Kid, and the Educated Rapper did all the classics followed by Ralph McDaniels playing classic videos and before UTFO's set Awesome Two's Teddy Ted and Special K playing soulful classics.
Got to meet Ced G from Ultramagnetic MC's and DJ Tat Money.

Hip-Hop honor weekend was great thanks to VH1

next CMJ....

joey

A New Path



Visual Marketing

coming soon...

joey

Mark Weinstein RIP



I don't know where to start, 6 weeks with one of the top visual marketers, responsible for a lot of hip-hop music videos I grew up watching. Having a two hour convo for the interview and proving to him that I can do this because of my passion for music. It was like boot camp for me, dealing with clients and shows, websites and tours.There was so much to take in that I knew this was something that I want to do. I want to thank Mark Weinstein for the extra push and will continue his legacy, He will be missed among all and will continue his passion and what he loved so much.

Joey

Monday, September 3, 2007

Peven Everett



As people know Peven Everett is one of my favorite artists out there today and he gave one of the coolest performance for DJ Disciples birthday. He performed "Stuck",
"Put Your Back In It","Gabriel","Everyday Girl Accapella" and "Cant Believe I Loved Her". After the performance he brought out CD's and he was the coolest down to earth person I met. I hope he comes back to NY and perform with his band. Dont sleep!!




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It was a nice evening with Yvette,Alicia,Black,DJ RAS,DJ Cameron, and Birthday DJ Disciple,Lisa,Kamia, and Peven Everett...

joe

Monday, August 6, 2007

KRS-ONE @ Prospect Park 8/3/07

Man KRS ONE blessed Brooklyn all the classics and the energy was crazy, even had b-boys do their thing on stage, this was another classic moment...here is my philosophy..




hip-hop never died, you just have to be at the right places at the right time....

joe

The BBQ Zune Show 8/4/07

The Line up was sick and thank goodness MIMS didnt show up hahahahaha

Joel Ortiz
Baby Sham

The J.Period Live Mix Show w/
Smiff N Wesson
Black Moon
Masta Ace
OC
Special ED
Crooklyn Dodgers 1

Clipse
Large Professor
The LOX
Craig G

LL COOL J

Free show...man

Here are some clips

LL COOL J



The Clipse



Brand Nubian



over all the show was really dope seeing Buckshot, Special ED and Masta ace on stage together..also LL COOL J, never seen LL live of course he balanced all the classics and love joints lol Clipse did their thing and Brand Nubian..

Seeing KRS-ONE the previous night at Prospect Park I say I had my hip hop fix for the weekend lol

joe

Thursday, August 2, 2007

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Nuff Said!!!!!




the teachers at the park!!!!

joe

Common 16 Bars Freestyle




Common is dope these young cats could learn how to (((REALLY))) ryhme!!!

joe

Monday, July 30, 2007

YES







Sistamatik......Sankofa....Indoor Circus......Johnsville......YES........

Sankofa live



YES



peas to Elyssa, Haj, Joanie, and Alex that came thru...good looks

joe

Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Pic of the day by Ceez Money lol



The Cops Dont Stop The Body Rock lol

joe

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Another Georgio Moment!!




Georgio is the new family member and Frisky's new little pal here is another youtube moment lol



enjoy

joe

The Adventures of Georgio and Frisky watch carefully lol








joe

Fort Greene Park Soul Summit 07

Music People Fort Greene Park Brooklyn......


Saturday, July 21, 2007

Interview with DJ Samir



I look up to DJ Samir as an innovator, ask this brother about any record and he will know it off the top. He taught me alot about mixing and DJ techniques and the history of soulful house.DJ Samir rocks parties and rocks for the B-Boys and B- Girls. If you ever get a chance to hear this brother spin, the experience is like seeing Grandmaster Flash for the first time..thats how dope he is...

1. When did you start DJing and what inspired you?


This is the short version. 1981, I was inspired by the Hip-Hop classic – The Adventures of Grandmaster Flash On The Wheels Of Steel. I practiced on my Pop's stereo when he wasn’t home. I learned how to mix on 2 Dual belt drive turntables with the knob pitch control. That wasn’t easy. 1988, I finally bought a pair of Technics 1200 turntables and officially became a DJ.



2. Name 5 records you love spinning?



1. Afrika Bambaataa & Soulsonic Force – Looking For The Perfect Beat

2. James Brown – Give It Up Or Turnit A Loose

3. Jimmy Castor Bunch – It’s Just Begun

4. Kraftwerk – Numbers

5. Ray Parker Jr & Raydio – Still In The Groove


3. What is your intake on DJ technology such as Serato and MP3's?



I don’t like serato. It’s boring, uninspiring, sound quality isn’t as good as vinyl, can’t read the grooves, and if your laptop crash the party’s over. Then the crowd boos and the hot chick that was sweatin’ you leaves with the busboy. I understand why some people use serato: more music, no records to carry, and still able to use turntables. But I rather spin records than look up songs on a laptop. Last but not least, MP3 is not for me. Vinyl Forever!!!



4. What styles of music do you spin?



Umm…Let’s see… Deep House, Disco, Funk, Soul, Old School Rap… Oh yeah, I can’t forget Electro Country, Crunk Christian Rap and Gangsta Polka!

5. What’s your definition of a DJ?



A DJ is someone who can rock a party with great music selection, timing, and technique.


6. Who have you DJ'ed with in the past?


I will keep it short. I had the honor of spinning with Eman (Bang the Party), Ras (Hotter Than July), DJ Center and A-Ski (Walk into the Sun), M-Tri (Korova Milk Bar), Mike Music (Atlanta), DJ Julio (The Roxy), and DJ Tyrone (Frank’s Lounge).



7. Name 5 DJ's you are feeling at the moment?



1. A-Ski

2. Center

3. Disciple

4. Ras

5. Spinna


8. What’s your intake of the Hip-Hop culture right now?



Hip-Hop is in serious trouble. The commercial rappers don’t respect or know anything about the culture. No originality, no skills, lack of creativity, the violence, and the list goes on. The culture will continue to suffer until people wake up and learn the true essence of Hip-Hop. It’s about Peace, Unity, Love and Having Fun. Not Guns!



9. What’s the most important technique in the art of DJing?



Mixing


10. How do you know Joey Too Fresh?



I met him at a record store I used to work at. Joey came in looking for Kenny G albums and I threw him out (Just Kidding). Joey is a cool cat. We just clicked on music and became good friends. Joey Too Fresh is Down By Law!


http://www.myspace.com/deejaysamir



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joe

Friday, July 20, 2007

Common - Finding Forever review


Finding Forever is a beautiful album, I say this because the content, the beats, this has to be far most my favorite album this year. I know Dilla is rockin this album is in the heavens...well here is the break down, this is a definite...

1.Intro - This Intro should be called euphoria cause of the feel a very nice intro
going in to The People...

2. The People - This is the right song to start the album, and should of been the
first single. The People displays a colorful metaphor for love..you can hear this
every morning and just feel good about life..hip-hop (echos)

3.Black Maybe feat. Bilal - Pay attention to this song the syreeta sample and the
message will hit you in the head the production is crazy on this..

4. I Want You - This joint is for definite radio play a for those that dont know
Common that well, This reminds me of The Light not only because its a love song
but the feel of it and simplicity..

5. Southside feat Kanye West - This beat is hard, Chicago like anthem, both Kanye and
Common rip it back and forth. But man this beat is sick!!!

6.Drivin me Wild feat Lily Allen - The production on this once again is crazy and
Lily Allens vocals on the chorus fits perfect.

7. SO Far SO Good feat D'angelo - This song was on Dilla's The Shining and was
tweaked alot..This song is beautiful both versions..Common kicked different verses
and you cant go wrong with D'angelo on the vocals.. I miss Jay Dilla and this song
is just great for this album with a surprise ending...

8.Break My Heart - This song is one of those that everyone relates to...clever..

9.The Game feat DJ Premier - This song is hard Primo on the cuts. Hip-Hop is ready!!

10. Start The Show - Ok hands down this is my favorite joint. The Production on this
is grammy award winning!!! Commons lyricism is classic.

11. Misunderstood - Common's story telling and message is deep, the beat is dope..

12. Forever Begins - a very nice tribute for Jay Dilla and of course on every Common
album Pops returns and the message of forever ends this album with perfection

13. Play Your Cards Right feat. Bilal - Off of the Smoking Aces soundtrack this track
is very dope and very catchy..Good music!!


*****

Overall buy this album yall Finding Forever in stores soon

joe

Thursday, July 19, 2007

BUCK THE WORLD!!!!


http://view.break.com/333887 - Watch more free videos

this was for the Buck The World promo, only at the LUBE yo!!!!


joe

Monday, July 16, 2007

Interview with DJ KMD



I met this talented brother at Ripple for Open Turntables and the skill he showed was a mix of all the DJ's I look up to old and new school. Just to witness someone young and killin the turntables man....You want to see a real DJ..Introducing DJ KMD..

1. Where does your name DJ KMD come from and how did you get into turntablism?
First and foremost I'd like to start this the way any true Muslim starts anything by saying, Bismillahir rahmanir raheem (In the name of Allah [God], the most beneficent, the most merciful). I'd also like to thank you Joey for giving me this opportunity and platform to express myself. May god continue to shower you with blessings and mercy in everything that you do. Now, to the question at hand.

It stands for Kut Masta Dee. My best friend DMK or Dutch Masta Killa (R.I.P) was the MC I first began to experiment with musically when I was learning how to DJ. He and I recorded a song called "Reflections" where the concept was to use words that spelled other words backwards (e.g. pots > stop) in our verses in order to challenge our rhyme skills. In writing the hook we came up with KMD as the perfect DJ name for me b/c it was his MC name spelled backwards and I was able to make it an acronym. I often have to use the longer version to differentiate from the early 1990's hip-hop group, and enunciate the "Dee" to differentiate from one of the best DJs from NYC, CutMaster C (one of my influences). I contemplated changing my name when I got heavy into turntablism and battles and also to disperse the foresaid confusion but I decided to keep the name as an ode to my departed partner.

My dad began the laborious task of teaching my younger brother and me to DJ when I was about 11 or 12('93-'94). My brother actually picked it up much faster than I did. But he abandoned the practice and after about 1-2 years I had surpassed him and began DJing family events (holiday parties, bbq's and such). I moved on to do book mobile gigs as I got older. By 16 I was trying to get a club gig. My age made it very difficult (no one wants to risk their liquor license on some 16 yr old kid DJ). A DJ at a local club decided he'd take me under his wing, DJ Jay Dee. Under Jay Dee's tutelage I learned proper techniques of rocking a party. He also introduced me to DMC in which he showed me the first battle I had ever seen, the '97 DMC US Finals. I began practicing all the techniques I had seen on the tape, began collecting the tapes myself, and entered my first local battle less than a year later (at Abracadabra Pro Shop in North Babylon, Long Island, NY).

2. Whats your intake on DJ technology today the software, serato, the
use of mp3's etc?
I consider myself very traditional but I'm actually looking into getting Serato. The technology has come around to the point that it facilitates the process of DJing better; it doesn't make it so that anyone capable of pushing a button can DJ. It's sorta like good running shoes for a track star. No pair of Nike's will ever make me run like Michael Johnson. And I also haven't seen a pair get up and win a gold medal on their own. If/when the technology gets to that point, that's the point where I'll begin to protest. As of now I believe it is creating more avenues for the art of turntablism to grow in and allowing it to get more places faster and with less hassle.

3. Name 5 songs you love cutting up?
Flava In Ya Ear - Craig Mack (The first song I learned to mix/cut with)
Microphone Master (Remix) - Das Efx ft. Mobb Deep (The first 12" I bought on my own)
Real Love - Mary J. Blige (Classic)
Unbelievable - Notorious B.I.G (I love Premo beats)
Get up & Dance - Freedom (Break - used by Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five - Freedom)

4. Who are your inspirations?
Too many to name them all, but here's a brief cross-section in no particular order.

Old School/ Pioneers: My Dad/teacher "Grandmaster P-Ski," Grandmaster Flash, Grand Wizard Theodore, Kool Herc, Afrikka Bambataa, Grand Master Caz, Jam Master Jay, Mix Master Ice, Grand Mixer DXT, Red Alert, Jazzy Jeff, etc.
Radio/ Club/ Show DJs: DJ Jay Dee (my mentor), My boy/partner/mentor DJ Cel (Club T-NY in NY), Kid Capri, Ralph McDaniels, Funk Master Flex, Mister Magic, Spinbad (Power 105.1 FM and Z100 FM in NY), Dr. Dre (Yo! MTV Raps), Biz Markie, etc.
Mix tape/ Producers: Marley Marl, DJ Premier, Pete Rock, DJ Scratch, Clark Kent, Evil Dee, CutMaster C, Tony Touch, Green Lantern, DJ Juice, S+S, DJ Clue, etc.

Competition/ Battle: DJ SupaDave (whom I consider to be a mentor), Invisible Scratch Piklz, Beat Junkies, X-Ecutioners (X-Men w/ Mr. Sinister), Allies, Fifth Platoon, Scratch Perverts, DJ Mousse (Morocco), DJ Static (Denmark), DJ Jay K (Switzerland), 5. Any projects you’re currently working on?
I've been apart of the hip-hop group, SKAM Fam since 1998 as a DJ/MC and a creative entity. We've got an archive of songs. We are currently working on getting the business side straight. We'd like to be distributed worldwide if possible; we just don't want to get jerked in the process. You can check out some songs at http://www.myspace.com/skamfamusa (I've attached a track with me rhyming as well)

Also, courtesy of Joey 2 Fresh, I’m working on cuts for 2 tracks for the MC Flud.

I'm a perfectionist, so I've also been working on 4 or 5 mix tape for the last 4 or 5 years. LOL. If Cel ever gets some time I'd like to begin releasing the old school mixes we started on years ago and also a concept mix tape series called "The Best of Both Worlds" (read between the lines to figure the concept).

6. How often do you crate dig?
Shoot! My cuticles are bleeding now. J/K. Pretty much when I get some time to get my hands on something different. I'm in the process of retro-updating my library. So I go straight to the "Old School Rap, R&B and Classic Singles" sections in Rock & Soul. I actually scored a really good buy about a month ago at a yard sale: 3 crates (about 210 records) for $30. One of the LPs alone is worth more than $30, Michael Jackson's "Thriller." So I am still in the process of organizing and listening to all of those records.

7. Do you think of getting into beat production?
Yeah. I'm creeping my way in now. I put all kinda crazy stuff together for my group back in the day using just my on board sampler on my mixer, some break beats and 2 cassette recorders (for overdubs). I even used my little cousin's Playskool keyboard to play out this sick melody once. (Don't sleep on Playskool! They got sounds. LOL). I moved up to a cassette 4-track and now a digital one. I'm getting my computer situation straightened out now. I just need some software and some outboard pieces and I'll be straight. My latest track, I did on Fruity Loops. (It's attached in this email if you wanna post it)

I actually learned alot from the site http://tweakheadz.com/. I'd recommend it to anyone thinking about production. I'd also like to take an official course at somewhere like http://www.dubspot.com/ in Chelsea, NY where I know a couple of the instructors (Neil Armstrong and Daddy Dog of the Fifth Platoon).

8. Name one of your favorite past time battles?
It has to be the first one I ever saw, the '97 DMC US Finals. It was chock full of talent and I could never forget it. The competitor I saw to be the weakest is apart of one of my favorite DJ crews. I would have loved to have been there in person (It was right here in NYC). And Red Alert hosted what more could I ask for.

9. Any mix cd's to look forward to and shows?
I always like to find a re-release of some old school classic like DJ Dirty Harry, and I get my share of true classic CD's when my dad, uncle, or Godfather come around with a Hollywood, Luv Bug Starski, or Dr. Duss CD.
I generally look forward to releases from my favorite Mix CD DJs like Green Lantern. Or artist promos like Ludacris' "Release Therapy". There has to be a good DJ displaying skills on the CD. I believe that's the whole idea of "Mix tape/CD." Alot of the CDs out now should just be in the "Various Artists" section. No disrespect to the "Freestyles & Exclusives Only" DJs. Artists truly need you guys. I just like a mix of the 2. I think I'm gonna go listen to 1 of my Tony Touch - Power Cipher (50 Emcee's) tapes later.

10. How do you know Joey Too Fresh???
I met Joey when he was hosting "Open turntables" at Ripple Bar in BK. The bar is around the corner from my parents' crib (formerly my crib too). I did a pretty good set and as the saying goes, "real recognize real" and I exchanged numbers and pleasantries with Joey, Honeycutts, DJ Samir and other Ripple regulars. Hopefully we'll be working together more in the future.


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http://www.myspace.com/skamfamdj


joe

Sunday, July 15, 2007

Joey Too Fresh and DJ Spinna at Fort Greene Park

Talk To Me



This movie was very good, I think everyone should check this movie out The story of Petey Greene...



for those that dont know...betta ask somebody!!

joe

Hotter Than July!!!

Hotter Than July is one of the best parties at the park..DJ Ras keeps bringing special guest DJs and vocalists and nothing but love and people dancing of all ages..
DJ Disciple did his thing!! For those that love soulful house this is the party to go to!! At Von King Park..Dont Sleep!!!



joe

Friday, July 13, 2007

Duck Down!! Mark your Calanders!!



Black Moon and Sean Price Free Concert (JULY 18th)


Brower Park, Brooklyn, NY, 5PM
Legendary Hip Hop Group, Black Moon, comprised of Buckshot, 5FT and DJ Evil Dee and Sean Price, will be performing a free outdoor concert at Brower Park, in Brooklyn, NY on July 18th.

Sean Price is set to release his new mixtape, "Master P," on July 24th and is heavily featured on Boot Camp Clik's upcoming album, "Casualties of War," (August 14th).

The event is part of the City Parks Summer Showcase.

Brower Park is located on Brooklyn Ave. between Park Place and Prospect Place.




Free Smif N Wessun and Dead Prez Concert (July 24th)


Red Hook, Brooklyn, NY, 7PM to 8:30PM
Smif N Wessun and Dead Prez are performing at Red Hook, BK on Tuesday, July 24th at 7PM.

The event is also part of City Parks Summer Showcase.

Smif N Wessun are preparing to release THE ALBUM on October 9th, 2007.

Red Hook is located on 155 Bay Street, BK, NY.




Olde English Presents a Free Scarface and Black Moon Show (July 26th at 9PM)

Canal Room, NYC (RSVP EVENT)
WHO WILL BE KING? Olde English will crown a winning tattoo artist's design for their unveiling of the new Olde English Can.

To celebrate the launch of the can, Olde English is sponsoring a free Scarface and Black Moon concert at the Canal Room, located on 285 West Broadway @ Canal Street.

The event is hosted by Sway, of MTV and DJ Kelly G (BET) and DJ EVIL DEE (BLACK MOON) will be providing music throughout the evening.

Free Drinks will be provided. 21 and over event!

YOU MUST RSVP at the link below:
RSVP for the FREE EVENT HERE



joe

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Party of the Week!! This Friday



at the best bar in brooklyn!!!!!

Happy Birthday Sanchez and Jonbo!!!

joe

Friday, July 6, 2007

Interview with DJ RAS



DJ Ras is my mentor in this art of DJing, For people that know him he rocks every party, He is also well respected by famous DJ's that are out now. Everyone should experience Hotter Than July and also tune in Cyber Jams Friday night an witness or listen to his blends of soulful classics and house. Would Heinkien already sponser this guy!!! Check out the interview!!



1. How long have you been DJing and How did you get started? What inspired you the most to become a DJ?

Since 1982. Saturday Night Fever & My love for Disco.

2. Whats your inatake on the new technologies DJ's use now for example Serato or Mp3's?

It's nice and convenient. You don't have to carry huge crates, or leaf through albums in the dark. Bring on the new
technology!

3. What kind of music do you love spinning?

House and Disco.

4. What is Hotter Than July? How did you get Kiss FM involved?

Hotter Than July Bk is our outdoor concert party series that has been started by Dj Gene and myself. We feature the hot dj's
and performers within the tri-state area. It's a spiritual thang.

I met Barry'the Maestro' Mason and his partner Kay~Kay indirectly through the Kiss Fm Message boards as well as through a
yahoogroups message board. They came down to our first event, and we all hit it off well. It's been history ever since.

BTW-I'm talking to Barry on the phone NOW!

5.Where can people see and hear you in action?

http://cyberjamz.com on Friday nights from 10pm-12am.
I'm a mobile dj right now.

Check me out at Langston's this Sunday night 7/8 (corner of Franklin Ave and Atlantic Ave, Brooklyn) and
Sputnik (corner of Dekalb ave and Taafee Place) on 7/15

6. Any projects? or mixes your working on?

Just working on HTJBK for now. That's more than enough work!

7. What is the most important technique in DJing do you advise people who want to start DJing?

Beat match and understand your eight count.

8. Whats does DJ RAS stand for?

My initials

9. Whats your intake on the DJ culture now?

We need to get rid of most of that hip hop stuff.

10. How do you know Joey Too Fresh?

The neighborhood bar.


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Check out DJ RAS

http://www.myspace.com/DJRAS

joey

This Free Show at Central Park July 7th

Cinematic Orchestra, RAMP & More
Sat. July 7th


MORE INFO




Welcome back the summer with Giant Step's annual Central Park Summerstage event! Returning to NYC for the first time in over 4 years, the UK's The Cinematic Orchestra joins us on the main stage as one of four show stopping performances including RAMP who 30 years after releasing the classic soul album "Come Into Knowledge", sampled by the likes of A Tribe Called Quest, will be making their NY debut! Brooklyn's much talked about El Michel's Affair with their retro flava and Philidelphia's latest vocal sensation Kevin Michael all round off the night as DJ Spinna lays down a foundation of grooves.

FREE SHOW

Doors Open At: 1:30 PM
Show Starts At: 3:00PM


Central Park SummerStage
http://www.summerstage.org
Rumsey Playfield, 72nd St Mid-Park
New York, NY 10023
ph (212) 360-2777


joey

Thursday, July 5, 2007

Interview with DJ Kofi Obafemi



DJ Kofi Obafemi one of the most down to earth person you would ever know and talented in The Art of DJing and making beats.
His musical taste is amazing, knowing that brother has broaden my musical taste from Afro Beat to Brazillian music, Nu-Soul, and Hip-Hop!! Some one should give this brother some air on the radio for real. Even when he DJ's he brings the newness to the table so read along and welcome to the world of DJ Kofi Obafemi!!!


1. What is new with DJ Kofi Obafemi? What kind of music are you
feeling at the moment?

I've been in need of some serious inspiration lately and recently, the opportunity came up to bounce down to ATL. Te veo Brooklyn! I'll be down south by the end of July. I'm going to set up a little studio inside the crib that will be a definite step up from the bedroom studio I've been working with. Heads are MOVIN ON UP!

Groups / people that inspire me to stay progressive with my sound: 4Hero, J. Davey, Black Milk, Moody Man, Karisma, Osunlade and the selections of DJ Benji-B.

I could go on and on...

2. What are your musical influences?

I'll keep it short and sweet by saying SOUL music. My dad was a musician from Harlem in the 60's and 70's playing in Latin jazz and R & B cover bands. He played bass and sax primarily. I'm a 70's child so that should say alot! I would love to tell you that I started out playing the drums or that I studied jazz guitar for years as a kid, but actually, I played violin in school from age 8 to 13. That's how I learned to read sheet music, which is a skill that's escaped me since.

I also have to admit that I was into some serious pop in the 1980's. At the same time that I was giving attention to this new "hip-hop" movement that was just bubbling up out of the boroughs of New York City, I was also equally as excited by all those British pop acts that the 1st wave of MTV exposed us to. It was an age of awakening for me, musically.

3. What is your intake on the technology DJ's are using now to do
parties such as Serato or Ipods?

I'm primarily a vinyl head but only because I've been through a looong engagement period with this medium. I've invested a whole lot of eatin' money to vinyl. If I could convert my records to meals, I could feed a mob of people. Now that we the dee jay have options, I refuse to hate on others that take advantage of the new technology. I bought a Dennon SN-5000 just so I have access to my own tracks when I want to put them in a mix. Feels just like a 3rd turntable. You cant press up a 12" inch at your crib, but you can damn sure burn an mp3 in a minute or two and get the music out.

I like vinyl for selfish reasons, but I also know that in the end, the reasons wont help me feed my kids, I like the effort put into the designing of album covers. I like its size. I like the connection I can make with vinyl through touch. All that helps me to find and remember the track I want to pull next much more quickly than if it were just some mp3 file hidden away on a hard drive or on a CD-R with 50 other mp3s. When you're chillin' in your studio or on your couch with that stream of smoke drifting towards the ceiling and you've got that one record on that puts your right in the place you want to be mentally, holding that album cover in my hands and reading the liner notes completes that fantasy moment. Call me crazy!

4. What do you use to make beats? How do you describe your sound?

My set up is very simple.

As for hardware: Two 1200's turntables, a Roland XP-80 synth & my Roland MC-909. I also have a bunch of hand held percussive instuments like maracas, panderas, and a berimbau, I have 2 congas and a djembe also taking up floor space. Combine this with Cakewalk Sonar and Reason and I'm good. Thats the entire kit.

Do I even have a sound? I dunno. I make the music that I'm feelin'. I'm not genre specific. What I can say about my music is that I like for the rhythm and melodies to be understandable - not so dark and complex that you need to be high just to enjoy the music. I also try to inspire movement of the head or of the ass. I dont make music to sit to.

One thing that urks me is this wave of producers who feel that they must intentionally make their hip-hop with the snare or clap pushed ahead to the point where it starts sounding out of time with the kick and everything else you got going on. Nah, not for me! I personally like to dance and if I cant groove to it, whats the point? Anyway, if you're making your tracks like that, keep doing your thing and I'll do mine. As long as there's an audience for it then who am I to dis?

5. Do you still dig for Vinyl?

I no longer spend hours going to dark and dusty shops looking for obscure records for the collection or to sample. I just dont have the time anymore. I typically find most of my music online from checkin out i-net radio programs from every corner of the world. THAT THE NEW DIG, ya dig? When I hear a track I like, I Google whatever I know about it and do my research. I've been able to keep my musical selections unique this way. When you hear me spin live or one of my mixed CDs I can garauntee that you may not be familiar with much of what I'm playing...but it'll still be funky!

6. Are you doing any collaborations or working with any artists? Who
would you like to produce for? Any projects to look forward to?

I just submitted a hip-hop remix for an Ed "Earlyman" Graves project. Edmund's known for his 10+ years stint as the guitarist for Spacek. He's also one of the original 3 front men for the Spacek crew. Ed's doing his own thing now and recently dropped an EP that got some play and positive mention on Gilles Peterson's BBC - Radio1 show, WORLDWIDE.

I'm always open to collaborate and have been known to phish myspace for prospective partners. If you're down to get down on a beat or track, hit me up! I'm open as long as the time is there. Remember one thing too, if you're plans is to earn money from a track, I also plan on earning money from the track. Sounds fair to me. Let's all eat!

7. How do you feel about Hip-Hop Culture?

Despite what is being put out there right now by some of the people I look up to for their skillz, talent and longevity, Hip-hop is not dead! I know what they're saying but if its dead, then its over and I just don't accept that. We've all got a role to play in keeping its true spirit alive. I still hear dope hip-hop. Many of my boys make it themselves, but not everyones plugged into a community of producers that feed them steadily with the freshness. What's obvious is that it's just not easily accessible or in our face anymore like it used to be in the early - mid 90's and prior to those times. I have to have it passed to me on-line by friends in far away places or as i said earlier, I find the most creative stuff listening to on line radio. On line radio as it exists now is every true hip-hop head's savior. When that goes corporate and becomes over regulated as is starting to happen now, then we'll really have something to mourn and eulogize.

If you dont want to put the energy into seeking out the good, creative sh!t then yeah, hip-hop IS dead, but dead to you. Dont settle with the commercial. Seek out what you want. Laziness never built legacies!

8. Where can people hear your mixes and production?

Myspace of course:
http://www.myspace.com/djkofiobafemi

Mixes can be streamed from my (beta) website:
http://www.djkofi.com/mixes/mixes.htm


9. What kind of venues do you like playing?

From intimate lounges to small to medium sized clubs with that good energy that the people dancing bring to it. Ain't nothing betta than a DOPE house party tho'! Making someones living room floor bounce always blows up your head.

10. How do you know Joe Villa??

In 1998 I accidentally strolled up into his Brooklyn crib looking for someone I was meeting for the first time. I knew this person lived near by. There was a cipher going on in Joe's spot that we could peep through the ground floor apartment window. Heads were chillin', makin beats and I though I was in the right place cause the vibe was so open and the guy I was going to meet was also into making music. After about 30 minutes somehow my crew started talking and asking questions that revealed that we were in the wrong damn apartment!!! It was a good night though. This is how I first met Joe Villa, his brother, Fili (RIP), Trevor Goodchilde and a host of other peoples that have enriched my experience here on this earth. I'm still glad for that mis-happening to this day!


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http://www.myspace.com/djkofiobafemi


joey

WU-TANG Thursdays!!!!

Brooklyn Zoo and Liquid Swords for your Wu-Tang cravings.... enjoy...








joey

Tuesday, July 3, 2007

My Last day at THE PERK



If you knew how many amazing people I met at this spot.....

More flix from Yvette check it out...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/triple5funkypinay/sets/72157600644591179/



joey

WHAT YOU CALL MY MOMMA!!!!!!!



happy 4th

joey

This is me on your block!!!

Just when you thought it was safe!!!



betta ask sombody!!!!


joey