OKLAHOMA'S OWN - DIK DASZTARDLY - ARTIST OF THE WEEK

ReverbNation www.reverbnation.com/smokelyfeent

This week's Oklahoma's Own Artist of the Week features Mr. Dik Dasztardly. While born in Oklahoma, Dik Dasztardly moved to Philidelphia with his family due to health issues he faced as an infant and grew up in Newark, New Jersey. Like most of us Oklahoma born, he found his way back to Oklahoma City where he continues to work on music while being a full time father to his children. In his words, "they keep me focused." While Mr. Dasztardly didn't want to reveal his age for this feature, he did say that he has been in the music game since he was Black Jack, or 21 years old. 

Twitter https://twitter.com/dikdasztardly

Growing up in the music era of artists like Naughty by Nature, Redman, Queen Latifah and Wu-Tang, it was artists like this that Dik Dasztardly credits his inspiration to, alongside the now deceased Tupac and Biggie. The era when artists were keeping music alive. To date Dik Dasz, has grown to acquire all aspects of the music industry, from producing to writing and even promoting, but stands firm that his first role will always be an artist. Because his life is Hip Hop, Dik Dasztardly places his work in the R&B genre, not leaving out the fact that he has also done some gospel music.

Relating his work to the likes of Kanye West, Dik Dasztardly is without a doubt a versatile artist. Backing away from the "commonality" of music today, he feels the music industry today is saturated with too many crabs in the barrel pulling each other down....his preference is to make music people listen to rather than dance to. If given the chance to work with any three artists, living or deceased, Dik Dasztardly notes Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles as the three artists of choice. In his words, "Mike is a kid at heart while Ray and Stevie see with closed eyes, which makes for a better picture of life."

Sound Cloud https://soundcloud.com/smokelyfe-ent

Not only is Dik Dasztardly a solo artist, he is, as he states, a part of Hip Hop. His click is known as Streetmade Records/Smokelyfe Ent. which consists of Dik Dasztardly wlong with M.A. and J-Ceaser the God. Going against the norm of what most artists look forward to in the music business, a major record deal, Dik Dasz says, he's not interested in a deal, his focus his on his children and starting his own label.

Bringing the focus back to his birthplace, Oklahoma is no stranger to up and coming artists. As far as talented hip hop artists is concerned, Oklahoma has it's fair share of artists and it's fair share of drama, so I asked a couple questions. First, I wanted to know how Dik Dasztardly views the hometown music scene. He sees alot of cloning, stating, " I bring originality and experience. I believe anyone can grab the mic and words come out,  but my concern in my music is the impact. I believe my music has a direct impact on my listener's, be it good or bad....mainly good though, I hope...lol."

In terms of Oklahoma beef (a.k.a. drama), Dik Dasz says, he's a vegetarian to their beef, lol. As quoted in his song, " And you don't want no problems Bee, I'll put your name in the obituary column sheets." And as quick as the question was opened, it was closed. No need to dwell on things you don't partake in personally. It is refreshing to see another humble and well rounded artist such as Dik Dasztardly. As far as advice for others that are serious about doing music, he keeps it short and simple, "Look before you leap."

FaceBook https://www.facebook.com/thesmokazklub

I will admit that I myself am a late-comer to the sound that is Dik Dasztardly, however, his work is not going un-noticed. With a unique East Coast sound here in the heart of the Mid-South, Dik Dasztardly is an artist to watch and listen for. I personally like the track "Daszpicable Me". He definitely brings a different sound to the Oklahoma Hip Hop scene, so check out the links and see for yourself.


Til next time, its ya girl Misses S.A.M., signing out!!!!

#23 - Mike Will Made It Ft. Wiz Khalifa, Miley Cyrus and Juicy J

I am trying to figure out what is all the hype with this track? Does anyone else besides me not recognize that this is just a modern version of Nelly's "Stepped on My J's"? Yes the beat is on point, but the rest is lame to me. I love Wiz Khalifa to death, but even his verse was sub-par. I understand that right now there is this big "Miley Cyrus" express yourself movement, but I'm sorry, I rather hear Nelly's version than this bogus attempt to re-create it. I mean listen to the lyrics and watch the video..... the setting is in a high school bathroom, hallway, and gym yet the chorus is, "high on purp, in the club, mini-skirt with some J's on"............... 

If it wasn't for the production of this track, the beat itself, then I don't think the song would have even been noticed, but for people, especially these young women to claim that "Miley is killing the game", lol.....Jesus what do we have to look forward to in hip hop? But then again, maybe the only hype surrounding this mess is the FaceBook fans. I don't care that Miley is leaving little to the imagination, she's grown, she claims she is doing exactly what she wants, so let her do her, but instead of promoting "smoking purp" in a high school bathroom, why not shoot the video in a club scene, since you are talking about being in a club? Or do you want to know the true message behind this song? Who do you think this video is made for? Those of us adults that are of age and able go to clubs and dress like hoes and not think twice about it or is the target the younger generation? 

This video is all types of wrong and again, the song itself is just a remake of a track that was appropriate for it's setting. Look at the differences between Mike Will Made It's "23" and Nelly's "Stepped on My J's" .... All I'm saying, I'm pretty sure that's not how Michael Jordan hoped his jersey would be used after retirement, ya know? 

Now this is just my opinion and my personal rant and I feel that music is rapidly declining. I just want someone to stand up and make music and music videos that makes sense now days. Nothing more, nothing less. Everything doesn't have to promote sex, drugs, alcohol and violence..... Til next time, this is Misses S.A.M. signing out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

UPDATE: MACK MAINE TURNS HIMSELF IN

YMCMB rapper Mack Maine (Jermaine Preyan) surrendered to Oklahoma City Police today to face the charges of Aggravated Assault and Battery and Sexual Assault. According to court records, Mack Maine's attorney, Oklahoman, Tony Coleman, filed a not guilty plea on behalf of the rapper on Friday, September 16, 2013. The rapper then turned himself into the Oklahoma County Jail where he was held on a $9000 bond until some time in the late afternoon. 

As of now, a court date nor any other motions have been filed on behalf of Mack Maine, his attorney or the State of Oklahoma. Mack Maine is now free on bail. I will be sure to keep you posted the most recent information regarding this case.......... Check out my earlier blogs for more information on the details of the alleged attack that took place following the America's Most Wanted tour here in Oklahoma City, on August 21, 2013. 

'Til next time, this is Misses S.A.M.....signing out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

UPDATE: RAPPER MACK MAINE CHARGED IN OKC ASSAULT

Photo courtesy of Google Images

According to public documents charges were officially filed against rapper Mack Maine (Jermaine Preyan) on Friday, September 13, 2013. The rapper is being charged with one count of aggravated assault & battery and one count of sexual battery. These charges stem from the complaints filed by two Oklahoma City women that stated the rapper invited the women onto one of Lil' Wayne's tour buses following the August 21, 2013 America's Most Wanted Tour.

As of now, it is said Lil' Wayne (Dewayne Carter) was not on the tour bus nor at the scene of the alleged crime). The women state that Mack Maine invited them onto the tour bus and attempted to grab one of the women's breast. After slapping his hand, the young ladies stated that the rapper held the door of the tour bus closed refusing to let them off but eventually opened door. The second woman states that as she was exiting the bus, Mack Maine punched her in the left side of her face, causing her to fall down the steps and onto the concrete. She was treated at an Oklahoma City hospital and had to have her jaw wired shut as a result of the attack.

 As of today, the 33 year old YMCMB member and New Orleans native has not made any official statements regarding the charges. The rapper has been pretty silent on social media sites such as Twitter and FaceBook as well. I have reached out to both Cash Money Records and Lil' Wanyne's Young Money camp but phone calls have not yet been returned. Well, looks like 2 Chainz is in the free in clear since Oklahoma now has a bigger fish to fry. Stay tuned for the latest on this case and I'll be sure to keep you posted.

Yeah, that's my look too.................

Til next time..........I'm Misses S.A.M. signing out!!!!!!!!!!!!

OKLAHOMA'S OWN : CHARLES JOHNSON - ARTIST of the WEEK

Photos courtesy of Charles Johnson 

This week's Oklahoma's Own: Artist of the Week goes by the stage name Charles Johnson. He is a 32 year old Detroit, Michigan native who has been an Oklahoma resident for over 15 years. To call this young man simply a rapper would be artificial. Charles Johnson is an all around entrepreneur. In addition to his rap career, he is also a producer, event planner, mentor and private party bartender. Charles Johnson states that while he is part of a team, he is waiting for the right time to introduce his team to the city and until then, it's just Charles Johnson Big Biznis Records. Although he is a local of Oklahoma, don't mistake him for a homebody, Charles Johnson stays on the move, performing in different cities.

Charles Johnson has been in the music business professionally for about 10 years now. He describes his love for music however, as starting at the age of nine, where he explains the first time he picked up the microphone and he has yet to put it down. He even remembers his first rhyme, following that statement with a short chuckle. Giving credit to Jay-Z's "Reasonable Doubt" album as his passion source for music, Charles Johnson notes Hip Hop greats such as A Tribe Called Quest and Big Daddy Kane as his inspirations. He begins to explain one reason why Jay-Z (in his opinion) is the greatest rapper alive, stating that Jay-Z doesn't just rap with metaphors, but cut off before finishing his statement. He states he doesn't want to give up the reason Jay is the greatest, yet he rather you do the research for yourself, but he leaves it simply as, Jay-Z does one thing other rappers don't. I for one can say I am curious to see if I can find the hidden truth behind this "mystery".



When asked his role in the music game, Charles Johnson explains that he does everything in music from A to Z and it his him that is responsible for his music career. Being from Detroit, Michigan, he explains you could find a battle rap on every corner, which makes sense being one of the major music cities in the country. Charles Johnson has a goal to bring the love and true essence of Hip Hop to the Oklahoma community, in addition to the Hip Hop community itself. He says it is something that alot of people here don't have, and I for one can agree. Oklahoma is somewhat set back or slow to what music really is, and with artists like Charles Johnson, we just may be able to get out of that "setback". He's an artist that is willing to collaborate and network with anyone with a good work ethic, stating, "Why hate on the next man, we can't put Oklahoma on the map ourselves, we have to work with each other." He also states that he is not afraid to steer clear of making mainstream music, he's not afraid to be a true artist, making music that you don't hear on the radio or videos you see on t.v. He's about making music from the heart. That is something I say Oklahoma needs more of.

When asked if he could work with any 3 artists, which would they be, Charles Johnson states, "Talib Kweli is one of my most favorite artist of all time. I could go on and on why i would love to work with him. One reason is his music is timeless. His lyric flow is unmatched. He is not scared to make music from the heart. I know we could make a timeless record together. Jay-Z, simply put he is the best rapper alive hands down. This is part of my music inspiration and why I didn't give up on making music. Biggie would be the last but not least. I would love to make a One More Chance type track with Biggie. His flow game was sick and untouchable. He made timeless music as well."Charles Johnson says that compared to some of the mainstream artists in the game right now he would most closely be categorized alongside Jay-Z, for reasons he won't reveal, but states what Jay-Z does, he does., and Drake, because he is not scared to rap or sing about love, true close to home shit. But he's not saying he sounds like them, just that the subject matter is similar and the way Jay-Z uses his words is similar as well. As for today's Hip Hop music? Charles Johnson says he doesn't personally care for most of today's "Hip Hop". Stating, "I wish it could go back to the early 90's where there was a message in all Hip Hop for the most part. If it continues to go this way, it will just be boring. The same stuff all over the place. Slow beats, slow rapping with no point at all." I asked if his music could make a change in Hip Hop and he honestly says that he wouldn't say he could change Hip Hop, but it could help lead it in the direction it should be going, Hip Hop made from the heart, not for the commercialized buck." Nicely said, if I say so myself. 

If you haven't learned by now, Charles Johnson music genre is of course Hip Hop, but he states that he is willing and already has done crossover projects, because he has a love for all genres and is not afraid to go against the norm. A Mos Def for the local level here. The overall goal with music, is for the world to hear his story, with not only touring the states but overseas as well. He states, its crazy how they love Hip Hop in other countries and while a major deal would be nice, he is enjoying being independent and owning everything. Being independent you just have to have a budget which he does and what he describes as "stupid good credit". He repeats that while he is doing his best to put Oklahoma on the map, he's not able to do it alone. Other Oklahoma artists need to wake up and says, " YOU CAN'T PUT THE CITY ON THE MAP ALONE."


I asked what his opinion is on beef between local artists and while everyone in Oklahoma may not realize there is beef, I see all sides of the music here and so I wanted an honest opinion. With high profile beefs such as Nas and Jay-Z, it's certainly not uncommon for local artists to have issues. He states, "What beef? I don't consider there to be any beef here nor do I acknowledge it. Artists need to step their game up before they have so called beef with another rapper over music. To be honest, there is nothing worth hating on here to me and there are no artists worth being jealous over here, not a one, but that's my opinion."

As for the future, Charles Johnson would love to do everything that has to do with entertainment, including acting, since he is such a natural at everything he does. I encourage that goal, as long as you have a plan, nothing is unattainable. In closing he leaves words of advice for others who want to get a start in the music business, "My advice....Stick to doing you and don't get caught up in the hype of making music that you see on t.v. and hear on the radio. Stick to making music from your heart and remain true to yourself, don't be afraid to be different, but watch your back because you will get robbed." 

Well I personally enjoyed doing the feature for Mr. Charles Johnson and would suggest everyone to go check out his music. He has a track called "36 Bars" that I like personally. I am posting links to where you can find his music and hope that his music is able to motivate at least one person out there. It's refreshing meeting humble and down to earth artists who have a true passion for what they do and aren't focused on being rich and famous or being on the next episode of MTV cribs. I look forward to keeping up with Charles Johnson and until the next time, I'm going to go on a quest to find this "secret" talent that makes Jay-Z what Mr. Charles Johnson calls "the greatest rapper alive".... 


Until next time, this is ya girl Misses S.A.M. -signing out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(YouTube) http://www.youtube.com/user/CharlesJohnson313
(FaceBook) https://www.facebook.com/pages/Charles-Johnson-Big-Biznis-Records/159824367466?ref=hl

(Reverb Nation) http://reverbnation.com/charlesjohnsonbigbiznisrecords

(Website) www.ourstage.com/profile/charlesjohnsonbigbiznisrecords

UPDATE: 2 CHAINZ APOLOGIZES

Photo courtesy of Google Images

UPDATE:

 2 Chainz, in a recent interview with Sway on RapFlix, apologized to Oklahoma City after explaining his side of events that took place on August 22, 2013 following the AMW tour performance. While he does acknowledge what OkcPD are saying were found on the bus, "paraphernalia, prescription drugs and firearms", and does not deny they were found, he is stating that none of the arrested individuals have yet been charged with any of the items found. He further went on to explain why he is so frustrated with not only being continuously pulled over by police, but for the lack of privacy entertainers have period.

Photo courtsy of NewsOk.com

2 Chainz did admit that he probably did not go about the ordeal the best way when telling the police to get a warrant instead of letting them on board when he knew they wouldn't find anything, however...he chose to stand his ground and as a citizen, he has every right and I agree after the robbery and attempt on his life in New York, not too long ago, he should have the right to carry firearms for his protection I feel this was the first sincere attempt that he has made at commenting on the whole situation. The response he gave leaving the Ok County Jail and the tweets were obviously in the heat of the moment and very understandable at that. At the end of the day, what all entertainers, not just rappers and not just 2 Chainz, have to realize is that once you decide to get into this business, regardless of how much you are entitled to your privacy, that just isn't going to happen anymore.

Photo courtesy of Google Images

At first I didn't feel sorry for the whole ordeal just because everyone around this city was trying to make it a racial thing but in all honesty, these people in the limelight are no longer regular people, they can't live regular lives, do regular things and while it is true that's the life they chose, I don't believe they all realize exactly what or who is against them. He stated he's on his A game when he gets pulled over but truth of the matter is, if they really want you to go down you will and as a top runner in the music game everything you say and do will be on public display.

Photo courtesy of www.mtv.com

During his interview with Sway, I seen a side of 2 Chainz that looked familiar. He looked like a hard working black man that is tired of being messed with. Not to say that he was pulled over by Okc police for being black, just saying even us average, day to day, non famous folks get tired. Check out his interview with Sway for yourself and I'll keep you posted on any new details as they come in.

2 Chainz on RapFlixLive w/ Sway on MTV

http://www.mtv.com/videos/news/955126/2-chainz-addresses-his-recent-legal-woes.jhtml#id=1713839

'Til next time.....It's ya girl Misses S.A.M. and I'm signing out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Music Review: "Da Message Pt2" ft.CB DUB, Bones, Dik Dasz & Al Jihad

Photo courtesy of  https://www.facebook.com/CBDub405?fref=ts

Just when it appeared Hip Hop was dying, straight from the streets of Oklahoma City comes, "Da Message Pt. 2" Ft. CB Dub, Bones, Dik Dasz, & Al Jihad. This track is released from the upcoming "CB Dub Mix Show Radio Vol #2" Presents.. (RBG Da Movement) and it is definitely a banger. This track has Hip Hop written all over it and for you new age music fans that are stuck in the era of every rap song having a gimmick or dance ( you know, crank that soulja boy, spider man, batman, and so on), this is the type of music you should be listening to. Real music with a real message.

Photo courtesy of https://www.facebook.com/CBDub405 

This track reminds me of everything Hip Hop circa 1990's, except for one thing, It's message is current. As I listen to the track my head has a constant bob as the words create flashes of current events that we are currently plagued with in today's society. Touching topics such as the very controversial murder of Trayvon Martin, the over-use of social media and government "tapping" to the personal tragedies of one's everyday life. "Da Message Pt. 2" is on a level as great as Wu-Tang Clan and Public Enemy. What makes this collaboration even better? It's a representation of Oklahoma's own. It gives us a look at the talent and motivation that comes from and lives in Oklahoma City. It show's what Oklahoma Hip Hop sounds like. Oklahoma is often looked over as a factor in the music industry but with the direction CB Dub is going, Oklahoma won't be behind for long.

     (Da Message Pt. 2)  https://soundcloud.com/cbdub405/da-message-pt2-ft-cbdub-bones

Take a listen for yourself and keep your eyes out for "Da Message Pt. 2" video dropping soon.

'Til next time, Misses S.A.M is signing out!!!!!!!!!!!!

Track: 5 mics
Lyrics: 5 mics
Production: 5 mics

Overall: 5 mics

MISSING CHILDREN ALERT !!!!!!!!!!! PLEASE HELP TO BRING THESE BABIES HOME !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Normally I would only post music related information, but as I previously stated, often times there are things more important than music, so today I am posting information for children that are missing in the United States. I ask everyone to not only view my page, but spread the information and help find these missing children so they can be brought home SAFELY. It's crazy how much we hear about George Zimmerman, Miley Cyrus and Kim & Kayne's daughter, but rarely hear about the missing children/teens.....We have to be better at getting the word out, so I am starting here!!!!

Bring these babies home ALIVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We spread the word on the most non-important information, lets do even better and spread the word on something that can save some lives.

MISSES S.A.M. signing out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

OKLAHOMA'S OWN: T-MAJOR - ARTIST OF THE WEEK

Photo courtesy of T-Major & I.M.E (It's Major Entertainment)

I vowed to make a weekly feature dedicated to the up and coming artists from Oklahoma. This week my feature focuses on 28 year young, T-Major, an Oklahoma City native who many call a triple threat artist. T-Major not only raps, he also sings and dances. If you are from Oklahoma and familiar with the infamous "dance cliques/clicks", you should remember T-Major as a member of one of the most widely known and ever popular, Sex Mobb (Sex Whaattttttttttttt!!!!!!!!!!!!). Sex Mobb not only performed locally during talent shows and dance battles, but the group also toured to different cities, opening for artists, such as J-Shin, Tyrese and Ginuwine. T-Major recalls performing at Jam Fest alongside his Sex Mobb family and states, that is where his love for the spotlight came from. I personally remember attending many battles and while my closest friends and family were apart of competing dance cliques, I vividly remember Sex Mobb being one of the most successful of them all.

T-Major states that while he has only been in the music game about 3 years now, he grew up singing in his church choir and started writing songs about his life shortly after turning 20. He gives credit to the studio as being a second home to him, in which he started working on singles of his own and mixtapes with his friends. Quoting great artists such as Michael Jackson, Ronald Isley and R.Kelly as his musical inspirations, T-Major also gives props to Chamillionaire for giving him an inspiration to do music. Giving them this recognition for their abilities to capture their audiences attention by relating to them on a deeper level. T-Major is one artist that you can see is very humble, but with an inspiration such as Michael Jackson, that comes as no surprise.

In addition to being a rapper/singer/dancer, T-Major is the C.E.O. of I.M.E short for It's Major Entertainment. T-Major describes I.M.E. as a label that "consists of 5 highly motivated individuals who works hard and does a Major job at it." I rap and sing, but the team involves several artist known as Doedi Dizzle, K Lotto, Money Folks, Mr.Herrod, Mank Stone, and G Duke Stone. They're all rap artist doing whatever it takes to get to the top and make a name for themselves as well as I.M.E.

Unlike many of the mainstream self made C.E.O's, whenever you see T-Major on a track, you are sure to see other I.M.E. artists as well. When asked if there was a track T-Major would like to submit along with this feature he could have easily suggested one that focused on him, however he chose a single that features other known Oklahoma City artists as well. For this feature however I am posting the video to T-Major's "Super Star Anthem", further down you will find a link to the "Super Star Anthem-Remix".

When asked who he would compare himself to musically that is topping the charts in the game right now, T-Major relates himself to Drake and R.Kelly and being that both of the artists have given acting a shot, the similarities are understandable. For his future, T-Major doesn't count out acting as a skill to add his track record. However, his main goal is to become a independent entertainment label through a distribution deal and it is openly evident in his music where he hails from and as he states, "as far as my hometown I'll never forget where I came from and I'm apart of O City so it'll be on the map automatically."

I asked T-Major his opinion on beef between local artists, and being a member of Sex Mobb, who seen their share of beefs between dance cliques as well, in a big but small city like Oklahoma City, it's easy to come across jealousy and hate. T-Major's view however, "For one no local artist should have any beef due to the fact that it will not do either of the artist any good, just a bad reputation for the both of them. Who wants to do business with someone who has a bad name in this game." In a industry that has seen the drama unfold between rap greats, Tupac and Notorious B.I.G, Nas and Jay Z and 50 Cent & Ja Rule, it is refreshing to see someone that understands, success doesn't have to come with drama.


                                     T-Major - SUPER STAR ANTHEM (OFFICAL VIDEO)

I am very appreciative to have the chance to feature an artist such as T-Major on my blog. He's a talented individual that is making a way for himself as well as others while remaining humble and true to his roots. I look forward to seeing what the future holds in store for the entire I.M.E. camp and I encourage you to take the time to check them out as well. In closing, I leave you with T-Major's advice for others looking to get a start in the music industry, "Don’t jump into the industry, become your own individual artist who is independent and an entrepreneur. You'll go further doing what you truly want to do, and not what somebody wants you do. Think bigger than big, think MAJOR."

I.M.E. website - http://www.itsmajorent.com/
T-Major FaceBook -https://www.facebook.com/tmajorakathefuture?hc_location=stream
T-Major Twitter - https://twitter.com/TMajorOkc
YouTube Channel - http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUuc5DGCMtNS0vxk4OO8__g


Until next week, I'm ya girl Misses S.A.M and I'm signing out !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hip Hop Let Me Down

I never thought I would see the day that I would dislike a song by T.I. Well today was that day. I came across the single "Jewels & Drugs" by Lady GaGa featuring T.I., Too Short and Twista. I must say that I truely dislike this track. This is a collaboration that just doesn't work for me. For one, It sounds as if Lady GaGa is in concert and even mentions that T.I. wasn't allowed in the country. Secondly, it sounds like a poor attempt at Lady GaGa trying to gain a different group of fans. I know many may not agree with me, but these three rappers are too talented to be on this song. It sounds horrible. T.I. mentioned in the past how he was adamant about working with Taylor Swift because of how it would make him look, well TIP, don't do this again and if you decide to work with her on another song, please don't release a part live/part studio recorded version again.

I am not sure if the goal was to see how many rappers with the letter T she could put on one album or if she was trying to pull of a Rhianna move but this was just depressing. I will include a link to the song, but don't kill the messenger. I am curious to see how many of my viewers actually like this track. This wasn't my original plan for today's blog but sadly, sh** like this happens. I mean seriously, how can you perform a song featuring the KING without the KING present? Sorry, I adore T.I., but even I give him a few strikes from the cool pool for this one.



So what do you think? Did they pull it off or is it another Lady GaGa flop?

Signing out---- Misses S.A.M

Mack Maine Next on OKC PD's List?

According to Oklahoma based newspaper, The Daily Oklahoman (electronically NewsOk.com), YMCMB artists Mack Maine, legally known as Jermaine Preyan, will be facing charges of sexual battery and assault c following an incident in Oklahoma City, shortly after the America's Most Wanted tour featuring Lil' Wayne, T.I. and 2 Chainz. It appears that some of the artists from this tour are becoming Oklahoma's Most Wanted as well. MILEY CYRUS BEWARE.....

Courtesy of "Google Images"

Oklahoma D.A., David Prater stated in an interview with the Oklahoman that the charges have been authorized but not yet filed at this time. The 33 year old rapper is accused of groping a 24 year old female and punching a 21 year old, breaking the young woman's jaw. Both women claim, they were approached by and invited onto a tour bus by Mack Maine after the concert on August 21, 2013. ( *Nolan Clay Modified: August 30, 2013 )

The article states that Mack Maine allegedly put his hand in the shirt of the 24 year old grabbing her breast. After slapping his hand off her and asking, "What the hell are you doing", the women proceeded to leave the bus. It is reported that at first Mack Maine held the door of the bus closed, but eventually allowed the women to exit the bus. As the 21 year old female was exiting, she states the rapper punched her in the left side of her face with enough force that she was knocked to the ground and was bleeding from her mouth. The Oklahoman reports the young lady had to have her mouth wired shut after having surgery at an Edmond, Ok hospital. ( *Nolan Clay Modified: August 30, 2013 ) 

Event Flyer for the AMW Tour After Party "Courtesy of  tweetwood.com"

It is unsure at this time what the motive behind the assault was or if charges will actually be filed against the rapper. According to reports, Lil' Wayne is not named in the attack nor was he on the bus at the time of the assault. While it is sad that these young women experienced this type of treatment, I pray young women, not just in Oklahoma City, but across the world take it as a warning. Just because these men are rich and famous, doesn't mean they are trustworthy and safe. Nine times out of 10, if you are invited on a tour bus, then there is an unspoken agenda that is expected of you and if you are one of the young ladies in this society that longs to be a part of the groupie scene, then take this as a lesson to ALWAYS protect yourself and be on guard with even the biggest name rappers.

Mack Maine & Lil' Wayne "Courtesy of Google Images"

I wish the best for these young ladies and if the accusations against Mack Maine are in fact true, then I hope he learns a lesson from this as well. Being a rapper doesn't give you any special powers, any exemption from being treated like a regular "jackass" if you will. Ask 2 Chainz about that good ol' county jail, if you think the OkcPD is a joke, better yet, ask some of Oklahoma City's local folks about it. I won't go in on Mack Maine (yet) cause I can't say these allegations are true or not, however as a mother of 2 young girls, I would have a few choice words for this "man". I hope this is a lesson for the parents as well. Teach our girls better, fathers, give your daughters the attention they NEED so they are running behind the tour bus of every rapper that passes through Okc. MOTHERS, teach your girls how to be women, how to respect themselves, so that if they tell a "man" no, she won't have to fight for her life to get away.

I'll be back with updates on this story as information is released. Misses S.A.M. signing out---


*Article information located at http://newsok.com/rapper-mack-maine-accused-of-groping-woman-punching-another-in-oklahoma-city/article/3877647/?page=2 

Artists to Watch : The Weeknd

Photo Courtesy of: http://songwriterhome.com/2013/7/10/the-rise-of-prb/

The man to put our minds to work on the single "Wicked Games" is none other than 23 year old Canadian born Abel Tesfaye, better acquainted with the world as "The Weeknd", not to be mistaken for Weekend. Beginning his career in 2010, and having only 5 albums to date consisting of one studio album, one compilation album and three mixtapes, The Weekend is an incredible addition to the music scene. Without a doubt, The Weeknd is a controversial artist who definitely creates a buzz worth talking about. After creating the label under the moniker "XO", rumors have circulated relating the label name "XO" to the artist's use of the ever popular drugs Ecstasy (X) and Oxycodone (O). ( Golden, Zara (November 16, 2012). "Who Is The Weeknd? 5 Things You Should Know".VH1. Retrieved August 16, 2013.)

I first encountered the soulful singer's mellowing voice at a recent Wiz Khalifa concert and sound check party. The Weeknd is featured on Khalifa's album, on the single "Remember You".The Weeknd has a sound that is so different from anyone else in the industry right now. I would consider his sound to be comforting yet painful. His voice has a tone that is smooth yet there is a sound in his voice that makes you feel his words. Similar to that feeling of being intoxicated.

The Weeknd's first single, "Wicked Games" was originally recorded as part of his mixtape, "House of Balloons" but was instead re-recorded for the album "The Trilogy". I must admit that my first time hearing this single, I wasn't impressed. It initially sounded like a guy yelling into a microphone. It also took me a few more times to listen to it because it seemed to be the "dedication song" from every ex in the book, however, the words on my third time listening to the song caught my attention. So I decided to give Wicked Games a fair chance. I turned off the lights, put in my ear buds, closed my eyes and listened to the song. 
It has been a must play on my phone, laptop and iPod since. 

I appreciate music that makes me think and feel and The Weeknd is that type of artist. He's an artist that hasn't been around for an extended length of time but I will bet he is an artist that will be around for a long time to come. Check out the video to "Wicked Games" courtesy of YouTube, and see his talent for yourself. 

Until next time, Misses SAM - Signing Out

White Dude Got Skills

Courtesy of YouTube 

Danny Vola is the most talented and entertaining white boy to grace the guitar since Naked Cowboy. Danny Vola created a buzz on YouTube with his acoustic version of Waka Flaka Flames "No Hands" single. Vola took the upbeat rap song and turned into a mellow string picking ballad. And I for one prefer his version to the original. The saying goes if you're going to touch an original, make sure it is better than the first.
It was Danny Vola's version that grabbed my attention when I realized what some of the actual lyrics were to "No Hands".

My fascination with music was heightened. I got a rush from his music that put a rhythm in my body that fueled my energy and I was ready for more, so I continued to search. Danny Vola is a 24 year old from Detroit, Michigan which almost explains for his music capabilities. His YouTube video recording, which features Vola in a closed music room performing "No Hands" with just a guitar, mic and stool, has over 2 million views and is still climbing.

Danny Vola has covered a wide range of artists from Drake to rap legends Wu-Tang Clan. Yes, this man right here, got down to C.R.E.A.M. and again, I would give his rendition of one of the East Coast most loved anthem two hands up. Of all the songs Danny Vola has covered, the only one I personally did not take a liking to was Miguel's "Sure Thing". That track is already acoustic in sound and soulful at best, so the double guitar feel did not stick with me. However, for someone to be able to take a song by the Notorious B.I.G and turn into something that Biggie himself could not give you, shows this man's music abilities. He is definitely one worth catching in person.

Danny Vola travels performing live shows of not only cover music but original music as well. He has even joined the rapper Waka Flocka Flame on stage to perform the rapper's covered single together.

The buzz surrounding Danny Vola has somewhat died down since the debut of his infamous rap cover but I assure you Mr. Vola is still gracing us with his unique style. Danny Vola also made a musical debut in the 2012 movie, "Think Like A Man". Danny Vola is someone to look for, he offers a full free download of his mixtapes at http://www.datpiff.com/mixtapes-search?criteria=danny%20vola&sort=rating (Datpiff.com) and can be followed on Twitter at @DannyVola. Videos for Vola can be found on YouTube. 

True music lovers will enjoy the work Danny Vola produces and he is definitely someone worth listening to but don't just take my word for it, check him out for yourself. 

-Misses S.A.M. signing out ---