A.B.G. (Adopted By Grace) is a Christian hip hop group out of Lakewood (Tacoma) consisting of five members; Loco, B.L., Snoopy (Snoopy Loc), Mr. Quick (Quick or Mr. Quicksta) & Big Solja (Solja).
The write up on their Reverbnation page, “A.B.G. was hand picked and selected by God, like the five stones obtained by David when he fought Goliath. We are prepared to face our giants. We have all been well seasoned through the past experiences, which led us to where we are today. We’ve also been through many situations, pain and suffering on the hard streets of Tacoma Washington torn between gangs, drugs, women and the list of the world’s riches. “God delivered us safely from the hands of the enemy and as overcomers we realize that without the shaping and molding of our trials we wouldn’t be who we are today. We regret nothing that we went through because Jesus Christ took everything to the Cross and we’re here to deliver the truth and seek the lost as Jesus sought us. We were like lost sheep without a shepherd waiting to be slaughtered by the sins of this world, but like a child with no parent we were adopted by God’s mighty grace and labeled A.B.G. , a promise from God that we’ll never be alone again.
“A.B.G. is a family quintet consisting of brothers Quick, Soljah, Snoopy Loc, Loco and cousin B.L. Their love of music began when they were still children starting with beating on pots and pans and doing whatever their instincts led them to do to make music.
Grandmother: I remember my grandmother buying us a keyboard when we were little. It was real corny, but it was something to get us started and from there we just learned how to play and make beats. We fell in love with the music, says Quick, the groups founder and who at 25 is the oldest member of the group.
Videos: Quick: We listened mostly gospel music growing up, but my mom was a single parent and she wasn’t always around, and when she wasn’t, we would watch videos on BET and MTV. And we listened to the radio, you know! Things she wouldn’t normally allow us to listen to, but we listened anyway.
Our Music: We do all of our own beats. People that are from Tacoma, we call it the Tac, know that if you want to stay out of trouble, you stay at home. So we made good use of our time at home by practicing our music. My youngest brother Loco, God blessed him with the gift, honestly you can give him any instrument, and in about a month he’ll figure it out.
Focused: That’s really how the group got started. Loco kept playing that old keyboard until he mastered it. In an interesting reversal from the norm of a rap groups evolution, ABG focused on the music long before they ever got into writing and reciting lyrics.
Saved: We didn’t really start rapping and working together in a real way until after we met God. We got saved inn 1996. When that happened I asked myself; how can I tell my homeboys about God so that they’ll really listen to me? We had to figure out a way to reach these cats because they’re not listening to us when we just talk about Jesus.
Ministry: My mother had remarried and my step father is a Pastor, so I knew about the ministry. I was eager to get out there and start my own ministry, I knew I had this love for music and I had my brothers and my cousin. It was at that point that we all got together and it was like this is it! This is what we need to do and music is how we’ll do it. That’s how we really came together as a group with a common focus and a shared mission., Quick recalls.
Jymini, began writing, producing and performing in 1994 where she displayed her talents for crowds all over the North West. Jymini has self-released 2 independent albums locally within the last 4 years: her freshman album titled Drank No Chasa and her sophomore album (which was a double-CD) titled “Walking on Water” under the alias O.T.M.S. She is finalizing her latest release “THE SOLO CHILD” which features ASSASSIN, Suga T (of the Click), AGERMAN (of 3X’S Krazy),Lil D.V.S, SYKOJO, Mr. Mysterious, Nahlance, Mista MC & Gerald Colbert. Jymini has also put together a “STATE 2 STATE COMPILATION VOL.1” featuring the very best of urban-flavored music from all parts of the US. She has also headlined shows in her hometown (Portland, Oregon) with the following acts: Brother Lynch, Spearhead, Cool Nutz, C-BO, Yukmouth, Marvelous and Kola. She’s performed in the 1999 Last Chance Summer Dance filling in for Queen Latifah on the song “Lay Down”, performed by Meredith Brooks. At that event the bill consisted of: Tyrese, Monica, Shaggy, Christina Aguilera, Destiny’s Child and more, and has gained the experience of touring with Rappin 4 Tay for the 2K1 Black College Event. Jymini’s energetic and powerful performances have carried her a long way, but let’s not forget her versatile lyrical skills and catchy “sing-a-long hooks” that layer her melodic musical production. This rising star wears many different hats in this industry – and wears them well. From writing and producing hit songs, providing resources for up and coming artists and building her own Website (www.micfiend.com) – she is definitely one to keep your eye on. Jymini has been featured on the Bay Area Stop The Press Compilation, Thug Warz Compilation (out 4/2002), Ground Zero Compilation (out 5/2002) and recently had 2 tracks “Bang Bang” & “Girlz Pimp 2” selected for the “New Zealand Hip Hop Compilation overseas titled: South Side Story 2 International. She has also produced tracks on several local Hip Hop and R&B projects. She produces music, writes her own lyrics and organizes strategic plans to market her material as well as her artists. With International Distribution she plans to triple her fan base to music lovers from all over the world.
COMPANY PROFILE: Jymini is the CEO and Founder of Mic Fiend Records. She started this company about 2 years ago (1999) up in Portland, Or. She then moved to the California Bay Area and things have been looking pretty good so far. Mic Fiend Records provides Web site and graphic services/design, music production for your demo, TV commercial or sound track, and on top of that – Mic Fiend Records provides you with original entertainment. Who wants to copy after something that has already been done? We are about setting trends and improving the ones already out. Combining Hip Hop and Technology together – puts us on a whole different level.
Basically, we are here to grow and are constantly learning new ways to get out there and hustle, meet contacts and make moves. A lot of artists (like myself) try to start an independent label but have a hard time connecting with the right people. Just a word of advise… the key to this whole thing is SACRIFICE. Ask yourself if you are willing to sacrifice any and everything for your dreams and goals? If you see things that are standing in the way.. like maybe your girl/boyfriend trippin on you for no reason because you want to do this music sh!t, or hanging around folks that aren’t trying to go anywhere in life – always complaining or too lazy —- You need to shake all that and SACRIFICE the loss to endure success and freedom. That might sound crazy – but it’s real talk. As a female wearing all these hats “Producing Beats, Building Web Sites, Running this label and still being an artist” – it’s hella hard to maintain and live day to day. But God as my witness – it is possible to do this sh!t. It’s finally starting to payoff.
And moving on from Jymini, here is an Octavia Harris bio from Gospelcity.com:
Like hip-hop greats Queen Latifah, LL Cool J and Sean ‘P Diddy’ Combs, Octavia Harris proves the key to an artist’s longevity and continued relevance in contemporary music is a combination of versatility and the ability to convey the ever-fluid interests of today’s youth. She evolved from being the tough-talking pioneer of Portland’s underground hip- hop scene (as ‘151’) to ‘Jymini’-one of the West Coast’s most highly respected female lyricists/producers. In 1999, long before Kanye West was honored with a Grammy award for the religious- themed ‘Jesus walks’, Harris released ‘Walking On Water’ -an ambitious double CD that explored social and spiritual issues that were yet to be addressed by the hip hop community. After establishing herself as a premier artist and creative force, Octavia Harris has come full circle. Like the decision to drop aliases and use her birth name, Octavia’s latest work, ‘Inspired By God’ is full of sincerity and honesty. This project stands as a bold testimony of her rejuvenated sense of purpose and her determination to use rap music as a motivating force in young people’s lives. Octavia was raised in a home full of music and activity. While her older brothers introduced her to rap music and the hip-hop culture, her mother took pains to instill discipline and traditional values. The incredibly talented youngster displayed a creative genius at an early age. She taught herself to play piano (from watching musicians), sang in the school choir and would astound her teachers with poems and compositions that rang with vision and maturity. She began rapping in the third grade under the name ‘Baby D’. She says rap “gave me another form of expression, a way to entertain and address issues’. Throughout her teen years, Octavia was a local talent show favorite. In 1994, she debuted on the growing Portland rap scene with the CD “Drank, No Chasa. By now she was ‘151’ aka ‘Octavia,‘the Mic Strangla’- a razor-sharp wordsmith with beats and flow that shook the city’s most respected male and female MC’s. The CD became an instant classic, helping to establish Portland, Oregon in the growing network of urban rap communities like Compton, Oakland, Houston and Seattle. After defying expectations with the groundbreaking ‘Walking on Water’, Octavia moved to Oakland, Ca. .Her production skills were now widely known and she quickly became an even hotter name on the independent rap scene. She released a compilation CD and 2002’s ‘The Solo Child’ which featured some of the Bay area rap’s biggest names (Suga-T, 3xKrazy’s Agerman and Assassin). She continued to be a popular live performer, opening for Montell Jordan, Spearhead and others. She’s amassed an impressive list of credits- appearing on compilations and producing/performing on soundtracks for film, animated DVD and games. She took over for Queen Latifah as guest MC on Meredith Brooks ‘Lay Down’ and makes a special appearance on Myra’s ‘Quit Chasin’ Me’. ‘4 THE CHILDREN’ signals more than just a foray into the exploding world of Christian/spiritual rap. As Baby D, 151, Mic Strangla or Jymini, she is known for tight production, thoughtful lyrics and driving beats. On her new work, she loses only the aliases but retains all the qualities that made her a local legend. The tales of street life and themes that resonate with listeners of all ages are benefited by her quest for spirituality and understanding. Tunes like ‘One I Love’ and ‘Make U a Star’ move the feet and have knowledge for the head. Her message is clear: give the youth something more. Always the innovator, she is a step ahead of her peers with promotional plans that includes churches, youth groups and schools. As a rap pioneer, female Mc and performer, Octavia Harris has overcome many obstacles. As a witness to the human condition, she’s used her talent to seek solutions. She is one of the genre’s shining lights and looks forward to once again expanding the horizon for her old fans and welcoming the new ones from the spiritual community.
Octavia Harris is from Portland, Oregon. She evolved from being the tough-talking pioneer of Portland’s underground hip- hop scene as “151” to “Jymini” – one of the West Coast?s most highly respected female lyricists/producers.
Alias After establishing herself as a premier artist and creative force, Octavia Harris has come full circle. Like the decision to drop aliases and use her birth name.
Brothers Octavia was raised in a home full of music and activity. While her older brothers introduced her to rap music and the hip-hop culture, her mother took pains to instill discipline and traditional values. The incredibly talented youngster displayed a creative genius at an early age.
Piano She taught herself to play piano from watching musicians, sang in the school choir and would astound her teachers with poems and compositions that rang with vision and maturity. Octavia Harris began rapping in the third grade under the name “Baby D”. She says “rap gave me another form of expression, a way to entertain and address issues”. Throughout her teen years, Octavia was a local talent show favorite.
Debut In 1994, she debuted on the growing Portland rap scene with the CD “Drank, No Chasa”. By now she was “151” also known as “Octavia, the Mic Strangla” – a razor-sharp wordsmith with beats and flow that shook the city’s most respected male and female MC’s. The CD became an instant classic, helping to establish Portland, Oregon in the growing network of urban rap communities like Compton, Oakland, Houston and Seattle.
Walking on Water In 1999, long before Kanye West was honored with a Grammy award for the religious- themed “Jesus walks”, Harris released “Walking On Water” under the name Octavia, The Mic Strangla – an ambitious double CD that explored social and spiritual issues that were yet to be addressed by the hip hop community.
Oakland After defying expectations with the groundbreaking “Walking on Water”, Octavia moved to Oakland, California. Her production skills were now widely known and she quickly became an even hotter name on the independent rap scene. She released a compilation CD and 2002?s “The Solo Child” which featured some of the Bay area rap’s biggest names (Suga-T, 3xKrazy’s Agerman and Assassin).
Live performer The femcee continued to be a popular live performer, opening for Montell Jordan, Spearhead and others. Octavia Harris amassed an impressive list of credits – appearing on compilations and producing/performing on soundtracks for film, animated DVD and games. She took over for Queen Latifah as guest MC on Meredith Brooks’ song “Lay Down” and she made a special appearance on Myra?’s “Quit Chasin’ Me”.
Christian Female Rap Network Octavia Harris started the Christian Female Rap Network in Feb 2007. The Christian Female Rap Network (CFRN) is an inspirational support system and resource for female rappers worldwide: “As a group, we intend to use our gifts and talents to build and breed Godly examples, mentors and models. Unified as one, we will show God’s Love through us by supporting each others ministries, honoring the Savior, and glorifying God.”
Awards At the Carolina Holy Hip Hop Achievement Awards 2007 she won the “National Female Rapper of the Year” award.
Videos Octavia Harris features for the first time as a christian hip hop artist in the video “Bring it On” of the album “Radical Sabbatical” (2007) in March 2007.
Albums Octavia released two albums in 2006, first “Inspired By God” and then “4 The Children”. The Free Mixtape is released in January 2007.
New project The MC released her album “Radical Sabbatical” in 2007. On this album she commemorates, with the special track “November 04”, as she puts it: “celebrating 3 years free from homosexuality: I can hardly believe this November 3 years has passed since I was involved with the homosexual lifestyle. I am celebrating my deliverance and God’s transforming power. It truly is a miracle for me to look in the mirror and know who I am with a relationship with God and really like what I see inside and out.”
Exclusives On January 26th, 2008 she releases an album with exclusive tracks. <—— looking for this one!
And finally, since it wasn’t mentioned in any of her bio’s 151 had an appearance on a Portland compilation called “Free To Fight!” The name of the song is ‘Real Defense’ and in the song she shouts out 1994 so this material could be before her Drank No Chasa album. Since most of y’all have never heard of it let me share the video!
Mathias aka Mathias Calderon is from Portland, Oregon. The Prototype Hype EP was released under All Terrain. All Terrain also happens to be the crew who accompanies him on this EP. Zig-Zag, Mathias and Juggernaut make up the All Terrain Crew. Zig-Zag and Juggernaut do the beat and scratches for some of these songs. Other notable features on this EP are Void (DJ Void), SinistaPushaMan, Kable (Kable Roc), Sulfer, Anaxogorus and Shipwreck. After this 2001 EP, Mathias released a full length album in 2004 entitled, Cadet 2 General, now he was using the name Mathias The Titanium Butta P. Like his debut, this album featured even more all star artists such as Mic Crenshaw, Destro Destructo, Risky, Rose, Sure Fire (ShoFire), N8 The Gr8 and beats by Hubble Constant. It didn’t take long for Mathias to drop another dope album, coming a year later, Common Ground, this time as Mathias “The Titanium” And finally, the last album known to drop the name is just Titanium. Judging by his Soundcloud page he has some new singles and it looks like they may be off a new album about to drop soon called Limbo Land? Additionally, Soundclound also has a nice bio if you’d like to know more.
“Two words best describe Mathias “The Titanium” Calderon: Born Entertainer. Mathias possesses a creative and adventurous spirit which loves to captivate and entertain others regardless of the medium, venue or audience. For much of the last decade, Mathias has explored the multiple facets of entertainment through music creation and production. During his continued his musical exploration, Mathias has spent countless hours creating, recording, mixing and mastering music for others as well as himself. More recently, Mathias musical pursuits have found him performing on the same bill with Hip-Hop veteran Busta Rhymes, Gift of Gab, Tash (Alkoholiks) as well as the ever prolific Dead Prez. Collaborations and editing continued to fuel one of his very salient aspirations: Creation within the realm of audio and visual arts; film and music production.
Born in Santa Cruz, California, to an Afro-Puerto Rican father and Irish-American mother, Mathias’ appreciation for the power of communication and self-expression across and irrespective of, cultural lines begin at a very young age. Mathias’ mother was an exceptionally talented abstract artist in her own right and his father possessed varied musical and martial arts talent. Given the diverse cultural backdrop, it’s no wonder that Mathias was drawn to the power of communication and entertainment via the performing and fine arts. Mathias’ cross-cultural upbringing also afforded him a profound understanding of the personal growth gained through the pursuit and completion of higher education. He’s a large proponent of education and has enjoyed leading caucus groups and volunteering to help in neighborhood schools.
Collectively, Mathias’ educational and professional pursuits have led him to two very distinct yet related truths. The first being that his desire to entertain and captivate others has always remained as his true calling. Secondly, only his steadfast resolve and dedication will bring this desire to fruition.
At this juncture, Mathias Calderon stands ready utilize all resources available to him to achieve his dream of leading the under-represented people of color in the United States to achieve all they can and be all they can be. It has long been Mathias’ dream to lead example through entertainment and exemplifying his own personal accomplishments and adversity.”
As far as I know these were the only two albums released by Central Intelligence, you can pick them both up on all major streaming sites or take a listen to The Awakeninghere. It’s always a pleasant surprise when one of your favorite groups from back ‘n’ tha day drops a new album 14 years later!
Central Intelligence has set the protocol for the Northwest Underground Hip Hop sound since the group was established late 1997. It all began in the Seattle’s Central District by combining five emcee’s with separate styles and musical backgrounds. The fusion of these element’s creates the epicenter we titled, Central Intelligence.
Dana Sims A&R/International/Royalties Sub Pop Records Quotes: “Central Intelligence definitely has a different sound from any other group I’ve heard out of the Northwest. I’d buy it!“
Central Intelligence sets to move audiences and venues to promote their debut album set for release Early 2001. These five explosive emcee’s have displayed their skills and crowd rocking abilities the entire year of 2000 with hot tracks produced by Vitamin D, Rocaphella, Bean One, and Poetry considered by many to be the northwest’s most sought after producer’s. Central Intelligence electrifies the crowd featuring hot singles “MOVE!”, “Who You Call?”, “In The SEA”, “Handle the Deeds” and many more head bouncing sounds. Central Intelligence is always ready to rock a crowd near you.
The powerful forces of Central Intelligence began to come together late 1997 when agents Lowkey and X-Factor started their first mission in Vitamin D’s Pharmacy, a well known Central District studio. These two emcee’s had a history in the Central Area of Seattle for busting creative freestyles which united them as a group. Almost immediately after this formation the group was graced with the explosive presence of agent Citizen Cain. Citizen Cain was fortunate enough to embrace Hip Hop in it’s finest stage. Big Daddy Kane was his influence and inspiration. Upon entering Central Intelligence his focus on Rap music became clear. With his presence there is no limit to what the group will achieve. Soon after this union Central Intelligence acquired the skills of agent’s SeaJay and Dialect. SeaJay, a native of Portland, gained his lyrical skills by studying Hip Hop in it’s rarest form in the mid 80’s as a B-Boy. He later migrated to the Central District which he now calls home. Dialect, a native of Arkansas, began his career by becoming a co-founder of the largest Hip Hop group in the mid south by the name of Metamorphosis. By establishing himself as the forefront emcee Dialect performed alongside the likes of Outkast, Too Short, Spice 1, 69 Boys, Trey Lorenz, Mista, Duice, Crucial Conflict and Fort Knox. After Dialect’s arrival the group began recording their first single titled, “Make it Hot!”. Based on the success of the first single the group was determined to record their first album, tentatively titled The Investigation. Due to the fact that each agent at the time of the recordings resided in the Central District of Seattle and to their brilliant lyrical content, the group decided to stick with the title Central Intelligence.
Previous performances:
* Stage Café 2000 * I-Spy * Umoja Festival ’99 * Umoja Festival 2000 * Paradox Theatre featuring SCUM and Self Tightled * The Show @ University of Washington, featuring * Tribal Production’s Back to School Jam! Sensimilla, Narcotik, Vitamin D and Ghetto Children. * Seattle Central Community College’s June Teenth * Celebration featuring Code Current, Black Anger and Silent Lambs Project. * Langston Hughes Cultural Arts Center featuring Code Current * Central Area Community Festival * UNYTE Worldwear website release party * Habana’s Live Friday Night’s * Sit and Spin featuring Narcotik and V one & U.N.I * Sit and Spin featuring Black Swan Foundation * Raindancer Cafe featuring Mah Jong
Enjoy this song not on any of their albums “Smokin A Blunt“
From City Arts Magazine, a Q&A with Central Intelligence about their 2nd album, The Awakening:
Central Intelligence last played Folklife in 2001, when the five-MC Central District hip-hop group was still unknown. Their Folklife set changed that, building an audience for CI’s self-titled debut album while paving the way for two years of nonstop touring. At the end of it all, the group fractured into solo projects and household chores. Now two of them—Key and Big City—bring CI back to warm up for the summer release of the group’s second album, The Awakening.
What was that first Folklife like?
Big City The audience was so open to us. I liked it. I’ve got a little hippie in me, you know what I mean?
Key Folklife was an opportunity for us to open our sound up to more people. I think it helped us. Not too long after that we started to hear from promoters and other types of agents. It increased our ability to tour.
Why are only two of you returning for this show?
BC The group started with Key and I to begin with. Most of the other guys will be in attendance, but a lot of them aren’t in a position where they care to make music anymore.
Key Life happens, you know? Families, kids and all that good stuff.
What made you two decide to get back together?
BC We were working with a group two years ago. I was helpin’ with managing and and Key was making beats. And one song, the group just couldn’t get it. Key and I were like, “Let’s just show ’em how it’s done.” So we got in the booth and it kept goin’ from there. That first song was called “Grown Shit.”
How is the new material different?
Key This is certainly a more mature album. It’s conceptual in many respects. The album is about growing, developing, maturing, getting past life issues and recognizing that things come full circle. The album has a really nice arc.
Check out this interview with Seattle’s own Key from the group Central Intelligence!
Collin also known as Collin Peacock released this self-titled album in 1999. From there it looks like Collin was signed to Epic Records and released one single, “Baby, Baby, Baby”, for the 2002 Barbershop Soundtrack. From what I can gather it looks like Collin went in to the DJ business as DJ Collin Peacock. Check this from DJ Jeremy Productions, “Collin Peacock is not only a DJ, but a musician (and former Epic Records recording artist – Collin had his RNB track “Baby, Baby Baby” featured on the Ice Cube comedy film “Barbershop” soundtrack back in 2002) by trade, who has also spent years as an event manager for prestigious wedding / event venues such as The Ruins, Inc., in Seattle and the Julia Morgan Ballroom in San Francisco. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event or a private party, Collin is always ready to guide the process from start to finish. You can preview a number of Collin’s DJ mixes below.”
DJ Collin Peacock Live at a San Francisco Corporate Event
You can also find some of DJ Collin Peacocks mixes on Mixcloud and more songs over on his Soundcloud page. Overall, Collin has dabbled in singing, song writing, DJ’ing and even acting. A quick google search will show a few of the TV shows/movies he has been in. Since his Seattle days it looks like he has moved on and is now residing in the bay area. If anyone knows of any other releases besides his self-titled and Baby, Baby, Baby single leave a comment!
Before we dig in to this NW legend, enjoy this bio on Shao Sosa from Reverbnation: “Since the 5th grade, Shao Sosa’s passion has been for creating hip-hop. Heavily influenced by rap icons such as LL Cool J, Eric B. & Rakim, and the Beastie Boys; young Shao found himself well known in the Tri-Cities area for his wise words and determined delivery. Over the years, these things would never change. Then known as “Shaolin”, the skinny Vietnamese kid with the remarkable rhyme game took advantage of local talent shows and built a name for himself. By the age of 14, he found himself recording with his future mentor Kyle “Porky” Adams. Pork was the founder of Acropolis Records and spent a lot of time helping the young artist develop his craft. At 16, Shao was officially on the Northwest hip-hop circuit. This was highlighted by a performance in Yakima at a 1994 Lowrider Magazine show in front of a 15,000-person crowd. Early on, it seemed the youngster had the world in his hands.. But things weren’t going as smoothly as they may have seemed. Shao describes his younger self as a “knucklehead” who moved away from his parents early and began dabbling in mischief to make ends meet. In the winter following the Lowrider show, a series of poor decisions found him spending a couple years away from music. The time down would prove to be a blessing in disguise. As he prepared for his return to normal life, Shao became increasingly close with Adams and continued to hone his writing skills. Through Porky, Shao was able to release his first tracks on a variety of compilation records, increasing his buzz even from behind bars. His track “Broken” (released on the Acropolis Records compilation, Pork Presents: Side ‘n’ on You) even received praise from the notoriously conservative Tri-City Herald, which referred to the song as “a poignant message of regret”. When he touched back down, Shao was hungry and felt he had lost ground to make up. Smarter and more focused, he immediately went to work recording and releasing his first solo album, Baby Dragons and King Cobras. The album is considered locally as a Washington underground classic. Working to expand his network, Shao was opening for regional legends Yukmouth (of the Luniz), Digital Underground, Cool Nutz and Kid Frost before his 20th birthday. As so many young musicians learn, it’s all about your team. In 1999, Shao parted ways with Acropolis Records due to label issues and later joined up with Bullet and Eastside Records. His relationship with Cool Nutz grew and he soon found himself on mini tours alongside Nutz, Maniac Lok, Mr. D.O.G. and Mac Money. Under Eastside Records, Shao recorded songs with notable artists such as Jay Tee (of N2Deep) and the late Mac Dre. He also formed a strong bond with Portland-based R&B crooner Arjay, a friendship that lasts to this day. This time of his career was highlighted by appearances on a number of compilations and the eventual album with Bullet: Small Town Livin, Big City Game. For Shao, life only seemed great from the outside though. By this time he had moved to Tacoma but was constantly bouncing back and forth between his new home and the Tri-Cities. As his change of address list overtook the double digit mark, the stress became overwhelming. But one thing would remain constant: His ability to channel that pain into his art. It showed in the product, and the buzz in and out of the streets was growing rapidly. Disagreements with Bullet and a poor commercial response to their collaborative efforts lead to a split from Eastside Records. In 2003, he linked up with longtime friend Dustin Jordan who launched Street Money Entertainment/High Side Records Northwest. Working with producers like Tory Ward, Big Squeeze, Bosko, and Big Hollis, Shao’s work ethic in the booth only improved and he was able to record enough songs for two solo albums. But while planningthe record release, his partner Jordan was convicted on drug charges and the label would go into a state of permanent hiatus. Discouraged, let down, and crushed, Shao decided to hang up his mic in 2005. “Music is my first love… I can’t stay away.” – Shao Sosa
In 2008, Shao started recording again, and quietly rebuilt his fan-base. Life continued to throw boulders his way, taking close friend John Shue in 2008 and long time confidant Porky Adams in 2010. But hardened by his resolve and loss, he stayed focused. Reinventing himself under the handle of Shao Sosa, he launched his own label Razor Tongue Music in 2010 and is currently prepared to release his long-delayed sophomore album, The Gateway Drug. Asked about his sound, Shao responded, “I think I am most known for brutal honesty in my music, and vicious self-analysis coupled with a sharp pen. What you hear is all me. As an avid listener of hip hop and all music, you will hear that incorporated into my sound.” From a young boy to a grown man, Shao has seen his share of tragedy and learned his share of lessons. Yet somehow through it all, he’s never lost his passion for rap music. As driven now as he was as an 11 year old prodigy, Shao once again looks eagerly to the future… wondering what she holds for him.”
Shao Sosa, properly known as Nathan Hodge, hails from Pasco, Washington. One of three cities that compromises the Tri-Cities in central Washington. Arguably a mainstay in the NW hip hop scene, he’s been at it since the young age of 14. As you read on you’ll get a sense of all the artists he’s been able to work with, it’s an understatement to say he’s been blessed! With the cherry on top having the opportunity to put out an album with his son, Nobi (Young Nobi) as Wolf & Young Kub. Besides being an artist, he’s made a name for himself as the founder of Razor Tongue Radio, a popular radio show here in the Northwest. If you haven’t checked out some of his shows, I highly recommend it (I believe they’re all archived now). There’s some pretty cool material as they played nothing but the best NW hip hop!
There aren’t many artists still around that were dropping classics in the 90’s and still going strong to this day, but Shao is one of them. As you can see from his discography he just keeps on, keepin’ on! With his latest endeavor being an album with his son, Nobi (Never Obey Blind Individuals). They go by Lone Wolf & Kub. Their debut self-titled album dropped 8/8/18 through Razor Tongue Media. As a musician I imagine not much could top being able to record an album with your family, especially a father / son duo. If Shao Sosa wasn’t talented enough by himself, add his son to the mix and what we have is an album that is pure fire. I highly suggest you take a listen and even better, buy a copy (support local)!! Here’s a quick on-point review from Respect My Region. I definitely agree with “this album does a great job of sounding current while being rooted in vintage hip-hop”, that’s important to me since I’m an old head and trying to embrace ‘new rap’ is a struggle. So with that being said, it is BOMB! Get the album here or here.
One of the Northwest’s best hip-hop projects released this year came from an unlikely pairing. The father-son duo of Nobi and Shao Sosa combined to create Lone Wolf and Kub. The name identifies their standing in hip-hop as well as serving as the title of their debut album.
The 11-track album does a great job of sounding current while being rooted in vintage hip-hop. During this nearly 20-minute sit down we got to discuss many topics surrounding their most recent release.
We got to talk about such things as their influence, album credits and more. We even talked about how the relationship between father and son played out during the creation of the album.
If you’re a fan of Northwest hip-hop and good hip-hop in general, or just want to hear what a father and son sound like on a project together, then take a listen here.
In addition to the release of the LP, they have also released visuals for the standout tracks, “Bolo Yeung” and “Street Fighter” ft. Karma. Both of which are available for streaming online now. Watch Evan B Culture’s exclusive interview with Lone Wolf and Kub below via YouTube – Respect My Region.
Respect My Region interview with Lone Wolf & Kub
Lone Wolf & Kub – Vintage
Lone Wolf & Kub – Street Fighter
Personally, interviews are always my favorite. This is where you can get those small tid bits of info on other releases, the background on songs/albums, when they started, etc. It just answers a lot of those who, what, when, why questions that websites with only the artists music never tell us. So check out this interview by Tac Army Radio. Good stuff. It makes sense why he changed his name from Shaolin to Shao Sosa. You try googling Shaolin to find his old stuff!
Tac Army Radio interviews Shao Sosa
And I’m quite sure I’m not going to capture them all, but I’ll take my best shot. Besides the tracks on “Featuring Shao Sosa 2002-2016”, he was also featured on:
And finally, for those of you who might want to sell some copies of Shao’s music, I’ve got a few I’m looking for. Of course, Baby Dragons & King Cobras would be a holy grail. We used to listen to that all the time, but of course, you know how CD’s get jacked. That was one of them. Who knew it would be so hard to replace! Shao was also on a few mixtapes that are on my want list; Mighty Mixtape 2, 3&4. And even the first one since I only have the mp3s. There’s also another mixtape called Black Rhino Records – Trunk Pushers. I’ve only seen some of the tracks on their myspace page and all those songs look like must haves! Finally, any confirmation on if this is a legit CDS, because if it is I’d love to get my hands on it too! Other than that I’ve been fortunate enough to pick up most of Shao’s stuff over the years, even the albums he is featured on.
No surprise Vonell is from the Lotus crew as Connell is not a very big town (pop. 5,000) so there wouldn’t be very many rap groups. In fact I’m sure Lotus is the only group from Connell. For those unfamiliar, Connell is just north of the Tri-Cities (Richland, Pasco, Kennewick) located in the middle of Washington state. I’m pretty sure Vonell doesn’t put out music anymore, but it does look like he’s a tattoo artist based off his Instagram and Facebook page. He did shout out that another mixtape was coming out and a new album, I’m not sure if those were ever released. If so, leave a comment, and those would be on my want list too!
Lotus – No Game Tonight feat. Vonell, J-Factor & Sebastian Select
What a score $till 509 Ride’n was, I found it at a second hand shop in Pullman for a couple bucks. I figured I’d never find this CD so I almost fainted when I saw this one mixed in with all the classical and mainstream second hand CDs! Their second release, Filthy North West Rydaz, is definitely on my want list. Based on the attached flyer, this surprisingly wasn’t released until 2010. A few of the members have defunct myspace pages but that’s about all your going to find on any of these CDs. According to Nuke Bombs myspace page and the inlay of Filthy NW Rydaz there is a Unda World Hu$laz Vol. III that came out April 2010, so if that’s the case I’d definitely love to own that! For anyone wanting to enjoy Filthy North West Rydaz, the whole album is posted on their Reverbnation page. Under World Hu$tlaz were founded in 1998 by Eugene Banks. If anyone else can help with some more information, leave a comment!
The Enterpri$e is Mu’tazz (Tazzman) Diaab and Terrell (3rd Degree) Cannon. Tazzman changed his name to Diaablo for the Hood Upgrade CD and I’m assuming for the GrindAholics CD since the same picture is on the insert in Hood Upgrade as the front cover of GrindAholics (see more on GrindAholics/Past Present Future below the video). Also, the “City Of The Tac” CDS actually has “City Of Tac” on the back cover track list and CD.
The Enterpri$e – Northwest Pimpin
This dope song, Northwest Pimpin, is on the mp3 version of GrindAholics here, but it is not on the CD. Seems pretty interesting, I wonder the story behind that. You can also pick up the tracks for the mp3 version here. And really, this GrindAholics CD is probably better suited to be under Jezus Tha Truth aka 3rd Degree than The Enterpri$e. The cardboard sleeve cover has “Jezus The Truth – Past Present Future” and so does the CD. As you can see from the image I uploaded that is actually the back of the cardboard sleeve, hence the name “GrindAholics”. There isn’t any information about these Tacoma legends on the ‘net so if anyone knows more leave a comment!
C.A.U.T.I.O.N. isn’t just his name, it is an acronym which stands for: Constantly After Understanding That Inspires Opportunity & Networking. C.A.U.T.I.O.N. has been writing, creating, composing, mixing, and producing music since the age of 13. C.A.U.T.I.O.N. has written over a 1000 songs and officially released two Albums (“Ripple Effect” 2004 & “Anti Industry” 2005 with digital distribution) as well as two unofficial albums (“C.A.U.T.I.O.N.” (self-titled) 1999 and The Laboratory” 2001) in the last decade. C.A.U.T.I.O.N. has also featured on the “On The Block Records Compilation, State of Emergency” already in stores, as well as many other compilation & collaboration projects. After moving to California to pursue his musical endeavors even further, C.A.U.T.I.O.N. continued to create and produce music releasing his first Mix-Tape “Supply-N-Demand” 2007 with 40 tracks, which he followed up with “Diary of A Rap Addict” 2009. After living in California for four years C.A.U.T.I.O.N. unexpectedly experience some personal hardships which brought him back to his home state of Washington in 2010. Over the next couple years C.A.U.T.I.O.N. worked avidly to get his life back on track and until then his music, his love…was on hold. Although he continued to write and produce beats during these years he did not release any music. Late in 2012 C.A.U.T.I.O.N. decided his hiatus was over and began planning an unprecedented project for the upcoming year. The Project was titled, “CAUTION365”. The project was designed to share an array of 365 songs from C.A.U.T.I.O.N. (A different song/video for everyday of the Year)! **Check this out! So many dope songs!!** In 2013 C.A.U.T.I.O.N. set out to accomplish this enormous feat. C.A.U.T.I.O.N. not only recorded his self in his recording studio for the majority of these songs on this project, but he also did over 90% of all the video editing, formatting, and uploading to social media sites & networks, while maintaining a 9 to 5 work schedule. C.A.U.T.I.O.N. maintained this regiment for the entire 365 consecutive days. The project was completed early in 2014 and is currently being promoted through various mediums. The project opened many doors for C.A.U.T.I.O.N. as he began to build his global network of collaborators. Immediately after finishing the project C.A.U.T.I.O.N. has been working with artists and producers all over the world. C.A.U.T.I.O.N. recently did song collaborations with producers from Germany & Croatia, and artists from Spain, as well as Boston, Los Angeles, & San Francisco. C.A.U.T.I.O.N. recently traveled back to Los Angeles to open up for Bone & E40 June 12th 2014. While in California C.A.U.T.I.O.N. shot his latest video “Disguise” with Santa Ana’s rising artist Kay-Nine (the video released July 15th 2014). Since returning from California, C.A.U.T.I.O.N. has performed in Seattle July 2nd, Olympia July 10th, & Portland July 11th. C.A.U.T.I.O.N. is more than just a rapper, he is a published author of two books on juvenile incarceration and injustice, he is a motivational speaker, and has spoken at over 100 schools k-12, colleges, universities, and jails, in local and surrounding areas, as well as New York and California over the past 15 years. C.A.U.T.I.O.N. has illustrated a children’s book, he is a mentor, he is a phenomenal slam poet, and had the opportunity of opening up for famous slam poets “Saul Williams” and Piece (2003), he is a web designer, he is an airbrush painter, a graphic and sketch artist, he is a recording engineer, a music producer, and owner of Caution Studios, Cause-N-Effect Wrecards.
In 2001 an article was published about the talented young artist named C.A.U.T.I.O.N., in the August issue of a popular Hip/Hop Magazine “XXL” (page 42). C.A.U.T.I.O.N. was in an article in the “Blu” magazine 2001 (page 6) In 2002 C.A.U.T.I.O.N. was published in an article from the Evergreen State College (Olympia, WA) about his rapping activism (pages 12-13). November 4th 2001 C.A.U.T.I.O.N.’s MVP message drew attention of “Fox News” and local newspaper “Spokesman Review”(page B3). C.A.U.T.I.O.N. has participated with the Midnight Basketball Association (a program designed to keep kids safe at night.) He has given slam poetry and M.C. workshops to youth in schools, Y.M.C.A.’s, and Boys and Girls Clubs. C.A.U.T.I.O.N. performed at “YoYo a GoGo 2001 (Olympia). He opened up for Medusa at the Urban Arts Fest 2001. In 2004 C.A.U.T.I.O.N.’s affiliations with “Sound Scientists” and “Gear Up” landed him in the local newspaper (The Olympian) and again on December 26th, 2004.
Pacific NW Hip Hop 