Tag: 2014

Si Aura / SIC ILL

Si Aura – Killahsic (Tacoma, 200x)

  1. Under
  2. No Difference
  3. Roll Up
  4. She Got The Runs
  5. Killah Season (Bonus Track)

*track list probably incomplete (only known songs)

**want list

Si Aura – Killah X (Tacoma, 2004)

  1. Intro
  2. It’s Goin Down ft. Darxiide
  3. Turn It Up A Notch
  4. No Difference
  5. Roll Up On A Negroe
  6. They’re Coming 4 You B*tch (Skit)
  7. When You Down
  8. Dark Cloud
  9. Pick It Up
  10. Conversate ft. Notorious B.I.G.
  11. Killah Killah
  12. Switch It On Me
  13. Outro
  14. 2 My Rescue (Bonus Track)

June 14, 2005 *want list

Si Aura aka Killah Presents 12 Gauge Killah (Tacoma, 2005)

  1. The Dark Voice (Skit)
  2. Roll Up On A Negroe
  3. Thugz XL
  4. 100 Proof
  5. So Twisted
  6. Smile
  7. Just Believe
  8. Twelve Gauge Killah
  9. Nzane
  10. Murdah Murdah
  11. Stormy Weather
  12. No Difference
  13. Otherside

Feb. 16, 2004 *want list

Free tracks offered on his 2006 website www.siaura.com

  1. This Is How We Live
  2. No Emotions
  3. Darxiide – CAMO (Care About Money Only)
  4. The Nine Like That (2002)
  5. Darxiide ft. Si Aura – Flip Quarters
  6. Darxiide ft. Si Aura – On The Low
  7. Darxiide ft. Si Aura – Flossin Wit Caution
  8. Darxiide ft. Si Aura – Kill Or Be Killed (KOBK)
  9. From The Grave
  10. Rubies
  11. On Lock
  12. Flippin
  13. The Curb
  14. Get It On

Si Aura – illsic (Tacoma, 2006)

  1. How We Live
  2. Never Be
  3. On And On
  4. No Emotions
  5. Spaceships
  6. Poppin The Top
  7. That Chronic
  8. Losin
  9. If U Could

*available through siaura.com website in 2006

** want list

Sic Ill – 3 Day Theory (Tacoma, 2006)

  1. Be Naughty ft. Gain Greenz
  2. Money Roll
  3. The First Time
  4. Elephant Skin
  5. One & Only
  6. Fastest Rapper Alive
  7. Major Play
  8. Justify My Pimp
  9. Without You

*available through siaura.com website in 2006. Two versions; OG with 9 tracks (July 27. 2006) and reissue with mostly new tracks (Nov 5, 2006)

**want list

Sic Ill – Rizedemic (Tacoma, 2009)

  1. Come As You Are prod. Tony Fadd
  2. Getaway
  3. Dimensions
  4. Violent -Jus Choruses-
  5. NorthwestCoast feat. Mr. Coyote
  6. Music Box -Just Choruses-

Jan 1, 2009

Sic Ill – Maedemic 2 (Tacoma, 2009)

  1. Knock Ur Head prod. SuperStar O
  2. Star Shine prod. Money Digital Music
  3. The Shore prod. Beats Planet
  4. Make It Happen prod. EPIK THE DAWN
  5. Leave prod. Money Digital Music
  6. Breakin Rules prod. Money Digital Music
  7. Bout 2 Make It prod. Beats Planet
  8. I’ll Be There prod. Money Digital Music
  9. Hurtin U prod. SuperStar O

Jan 1, 2009

Sic Ill – Abomdemic (Tacoma, 2009)

  1. Saddam Hussein prod. The Unbeatables
  2. FreshCoast prod. Evelution Beats
  3. Bites It prod. Heat Up Beats
  4. Music prod. The Unbeatables
  5. Where The Past Go prod. Royal Audio Tunes
  6. Up All Nite prod. The Unbeatables
  7. Wearin’ Out prod. Royal Audio Tunes
  8. All 4 The Takin’ prod. Evelution Beats
  9. Rock That Thang prod. Platinum Sellers Beats
  10. The Wrong Thing prod. Platinum Sellers Beats

Jan 1, 2009

Darxiide – Roach Collection (Tacoma, 2009)

*No track list **want list

Sic Ill – Pandemic (Tacoma, 2010)

  1. This Is The Soul ft Whikid Matticuless – instrumental by SIC ILL
  2. N Fly ft Whikid Matticuless – Shame – Nick Dominguez – instrumental by DOUGHBOI
  3. Gotta Make My Money ft Shame – Dru Breeze – instrumental by SIC ILL
  4. This Is For The Women ft Moe Greenz – Nick Dominguez – instrumental by DOUGHBOI
  5. Spindash ft Savi Suazi – Shame – instrumental by SIC ILL
  6. Northwest Gray ft Shame – Skrilla – instrumental by SIC ILL
  7. I Want Your Face ft Whikid Matticuless – 211 – instrumental by DOUGHBOI
  8. Taste Of This Life ft Shame – instrumental by SIC ILL
  9. Ketchup ft Shame – Hypo – Instrumental by SIC ILL
  10. Beautiful Women ft Moe Greenz – Dru Breeze – instrumental by SIC ILL
  11. From Me To You ft Shame – Dru Breeze – Nick Dominguez – instrumental by E PRUITT
  12. 4 The Addicts ft Shame – Cornbread – instrumetal by SIC ILL

Jan 1, 2010 *download from Darxiide.com & Bandcamp both have a track list that differs from cover image track list

Sic Ill – Epidemic EP (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. BEAST OF YUK instrumental by Sic ill
  2. ANTI-NWO_aka_FRY – Feat Shame – Moe Greenz – Beat by Mike Myth
  3. DJ BOI – feat Nick Dominguez – Ace Boogie – Beat by Doughboi
  4. JACUZZI – feat 211 – Nick Dominguez – Beat by MIKE MYTH
  5. PURPLE LIME – feat – Shame – Grim – beat by MIKE MYTH
  6. SHE BE THINKIN BOUT ME – feat Ese Cricket – Shame – Beat by Ese Cricket
  7. BLACK HOLE SUN – feat Josh Rizeberg – AR Mastermind – Moe Greenz

Jan 2, 2012

Sic Ill – Stardemic (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. Chocolates
  2. Ice Cold
  3. Used2Care
  4. Reverb
  5. Rocky Beaches
  6. Downtown Streets -DigiDance-
  7. 4Real
  8. Chocolates (Instrumental)
  9. Ice Cold (Instrumental)
  10. Used2Care (Instrumental)
  11. Reverb (Instrumental)
  12. Rocky Beaches (Instrumental)
  13. Downtown Streets (Instrumental)
  14. 4Real (Instrumental)

May 29, 2012

Sic Ill – Techdemic (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. Sharks
  2. What About Me
  3. So Much
  4. Make Me Shine
  5. Wormhole
  6. Metroid Point
  7. Sharks (Instrumental)
  8. What About Me (Instrumental)
  9. So Much (Instrumental)
  10. Make Me Shine (Instrumental)
  11. Wormhole (Instrumental)
  12. Metroid Points (Instrumental)

June 1, 2012

Sic Ill – Prodemic (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. Colorful
  2. Under Construction
  3. Waterfalls
  4. HearduGot
  5. Old Circuitry Type

June 27, 2012

Sic Ill – Retrodemic (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. Queen Of The Orchards
  2. Legal Casino
  3. How Do You Survive
  4. Mystery
  5. @TheWater

July 1, 2012

Sic Ill – Ameridemic (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. Spittaz
  2. High Maintenance
  3. All
  4. Pamphlet
  5. Happy Ever After

July 12, 2012

Sic Ill – Fandemic (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. Pink Elephants
  2. Blame
  3. City Of Glass
  4. iRepresent

August 14, 2012

Sic Ill – Wardemic: Mixdemic (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. Mixdemic
  2. Running Inside
  3. Is It Real
  4. Funky
  5. Chick-N-Wing
  6. I Try
  7. No Stress

Sept. 1, 2012

Sic Ill – Kingdemic (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. Cash Drop -Ass Drop-
  2. Whip It
  3. Postal
  4. Darkess Day
  5. You Say You Wanna

Sept. 4, 2012

Sic Ill – Kingdemic 2 (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. Best From The West
  2. Bot Boys
  3. Less Than Care
  4. They Say
  5. If You Could Be Here
  6. Steppen Stone 2012
  7. Heartbeat 2012
  8. War Has Just Begun

Oct. 8, 2012

Sic Ill – Maedemic (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. Change prod Flawless Tracks
  2. Spare Time Rare Rhyme prod Choco – Mae Dali solo
  3. Nebula prod SdotFire
  4. Flow prod Flawless Tracks
  5. Black Hawk Down prod Cash Hits
  6. Motivation prod G Money BabyIts Da Money Nigga
  7. Quick Meditation-cation – Mae Dali solo
  8. Last Days prod Matt Houston Beats

Dec. 1, 2012

Sic Ill – Tacdemic (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. Gangsta Girl
  2. Supposed To Be My
  3. In The Room
  4. Testify
  5. iSoar
  6. Cry

Dec. 12, 2012

Sic Ill – Hilldemic (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. FreshCoast prod. EVELUTION BEATS
  2. Saddam Hussein prod. The Unbeatables
  3. Bites It prod. HEAT UP BEATS
  4. Music prod. The Unbeatables
  5. Where The Past Go prod. ROYAL AUDIO TUNES
  6. Up All Nite prod. The Unbeatables
  7. Wearin’ Out prod. ROYAL AUDIO TUNES
  8. All 4 The Takin’ prod. EVELUTION BEATS
  9. Rock That Thang prod. PLATINUM SELLERS BEATS

Dec. 29, 2012

Sic Ill – Streetdemic (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Hard 2 Please – LoveRance ft 50 Cent x T.I. x Young Jeezy
  2. Ima Doctor – Meek Millz – Ima Boss
  3. Workit – Baby Bash ft Too Short x Z Ro – Break It Down
  4. More Than I Ever – Rick Ross – 3 Kings
  5. Lets Just Think – Rick Ross ft. Usher – Touch N You
  6. Hands On The Wheel – Schoolboy Q – Hands On The Wheel
  7. Make My Day – T.I. – Love This Life
  8. Rock N Roll – Camron – Boy Boy
  9. Lord Knows – Drake ft. Rick Ross – Lord Knows

Jan 7, 2013

Sic Ill – Vicdemic (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. The Walking Dead
  2. Closer
  3. The Pit
  4. Free Parking
  5. Rap It Up
  6. Darth Vader

Jan 12, 2013

Sic Ill – Streetdemic 2 (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Far – Beat – D Lo ft Tyga – Get Her Tho
  2. We Wild – Beat – Bumpy Knuckles – More Levels
  3. Ghost Train – Beat – The Game – Holy Water
  4. Beat Edibles – Beat – Knxwledge – Cristo Redentor
  5. Too Bad – Camron Ft Ymmy – So Bad
  6. Feature of the Show – Beat – Trey Songz Ft Young Jeezy And Lil Wayne – Hail Mary
  7. Striped Shirt – Beat – Bow Wow – Crunch Time

Jan. 22, 2013

Sic Ill – Vicdemic 2 (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Jam
  2. Aladdin
  3. Fast & Hot
  4. 2Step
  5. Fountain
  6. Transformers

Jan. 23, 2013

Sic Ill – Youtubedemic (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. iRepresent
  2. Pink Elephants
  3. Queen Of The Orchards
  4. High Maintenance
  5. Ice Cold
  6. City Of Glass
  7. Chocolates
  8. At The Water
  9. Blame
  10. Spittaz
  11. Legal Casino
  12. So Much
  13. Colorful
  14. Make Me Shine
  15. Reverb
  16. Downtown Streets
  17. How Do You Survive
  18. Metroid Points
  19. Under Construction
  20. 4Real
  21. Pamphlet
  22. Rocky Beaches

May 12, 2013 * Full Youtube video

Sic Ill – Vicdemic 3 (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Revenge Of Shinobi
  2. Shatter
  3. 4 Ur Head
  4. Pots And Pans
  5. Higher
  6. Turn Me On

June 1, 2013

Sic Ill – Streetdemic 3 (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. The Spurs – BEAT – Edo-G & Pete Rock – Boston
  2. Micheala – Sadistik – Micheal [SEATTLE-TACOMA REMIX]
  3. Self Made – Inspectah Deck – What They Want
  4. A Perfect 16 Bars – BEAT – Aceyalone – The Faces
  5. Dance With Myself BEAT – Riff Raff – Bird On A Wire
  6. Rock Diamond – Kid Ink – Is It You

June 23, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – NDemic (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. NPlace
  2. Ferry Boats
  3. Do My Thang
  4. Soccer Game

June 23, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – Katy B Demic (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Lights On – Katy B – Lights On ft Ms. Dynamite [COVER]
  2. On A Mission – Katy B – On A Mission [COVER]
  3. Broken Record – Katy B – Perfect Stranger [COVER]
  4. Perfect Stranger – Katy B – Perfect Stranger [COVER]

June 23, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – Vicdemic 4 (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Dancing Bare
  2. Manuscript
  3. The Jungle
  4. The Sound
  5. Potholes
  6. Blueberries

June 23, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – Streetdemic 4 (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Exotic – BEAT – Rass Kass – Holes In The Ozone
  2. Flowers – BEAT – Vast Aire – Why’sdaskyblue
  3. Times I Wonder – BEAT – Madlib – Roll ‘Em Right
  4. Black Magic – BEAT – A$ap Rocky – Angels
  5. Spinach And Moss – BEAT – 7L & Esoteric – Do It
  6. Another Round Of Lies – BEAT – K-OS – Rise Like The Sun

July 17, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – Thurge Demic (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Royal Baby
  2. Tippy
  3. Lighthouse

Aug. 6, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – Dev Demic (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. In The Dark – BEAT – Dev – In The Dark
  2. Birdhouse – BEAT – Dev – Fireball
  3. Sweat On U – BEAT – Dev ft. Timbaland – Don’t Hurt It

Aug. 6, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – Bad A$$ Demic (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Always In Danger – BEAT – Joey Bada$$ – Death Of YOLO ft. Smoke Dza
  2. Underground Airplay – BEAT – Joey Bada$$ – Underground Airplay
  3. Daily Routine – BEAT – Joey Bada$$ – Daily Routine

Aug. 6, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – A$AP Demic (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Alleys – BEAT – A$ap Rocky – Leaf
  2. 3D Printer – BEAT – A$ap Rocky – Wassup
  3. Ghetto Symphony – BEAT – A$ap Rocky – Ghetto Symphony
  4. Hands On The Wheel – BEAT – Schoolboy Q x A$ap Rocky – Hands On The Wheel
  5. Black Magic – BEAT – A$ap Rocky – Angels

Aug. 6, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – Ndemic 2 (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Hope
  2. Load Up
  3. Parasol
  4. Island Swing

Aug. 28, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – Lily Allen Demic (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Knock Em Out – BEAT – Lily Allen – Knock ‘Em Out
  2. Shot Me – BEAT – Lily Allen – Friend Of Mine
  3. Smile – BEAT – Lily Allen – Smile
  4. Dive – BEAT – Lily Allen – Everyone’s At It
  5. Vintage In Style – BEAT – Mark Ronson ft. Lily Allen – Oh My God

Aug. 28, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – GZA Demic (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Roosevelts – BEAT – Gza
  2. Culture Barn – BEAT – Gza – Feels Like An Enemy
  3. 4th Chamber – BEAT – Gza – 4th Chamber
  4. Liquid Swords – Seattle Tacoma Remix – BEAT – Gza – Liquid Swords
  5. B.I.B.L.E. – BEAT – Killah Priest x Gza – B.I.B.L.E.

Aug. 29, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – Fiasco Demic (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Underneath The Dome – BEAT – Lupe Fiasco ft Jay Z – Pressure
  2. The Garden – BEAT – Lupe Fiasco – Go Go Gadget Flow
  3. Want It All – BEAT – Lupe Fiasco – Dumb It Down
  4. Good Time – BEAT – Lupe Fiasco – Words I Never Said
  5. North To South – BEAT – Lupe Fiasco – Hurt Me Soul

Aug. 29, 2013 *want list

Sic Ill – Sic Ill Compilation (Tacoma, 2013)

  1. Pink Elephants
  2. Fast & Hot – Prod. by Victor Herman of Blue Nose Music
  3. Ferry Boats – Prod. by Natate Productions
  4. Lighthouse – Prod. by Thurge
  5. Tippy – Prod. by Thurge
  6. Royal Baby – Prod. by Thurge
  7. Cash Drop Ass Drop – Beat by Doughboi
  8. Shatter – Prod. by Victor Herman of Blue Nose Music
  9. Closer – Prod. by Victor Herman of Blue Nose Music
  10. Higher – Prod. by Victor Herman of Blue Nose Music
  11. Hope – Prod. by Natate Productions
  12. Island Swing – Prod. by Natate Productions
  13. Load Up – Prod. by Natate Productions
  14. Nplace – Prod. by Natate Productions
  15. Parasol – Prod. by Natate Productions
  16. Pots And Pans – Prod. by Victor Herman of Blue Nose Music
  17. Revenge Of Shinobi – Prod. by Victor Herman of Blue Nose Music
  18. So Much
  19. Soccer Game – Prod. by Natate Productions
  20. At The Water

2013 *download

Sic Ill – Music Demic (Tacoma, 2014)

  1. Nplace – prod by Natate Productions
  2. Ferry Boats – prod by Natate Productions
  3. Do My Thang – prod by Natate Productions
  4. Soccer Game – prod by Natate Productions
  5. Hope – prod by Natate Productions
  6. Load Up – prod by Natate Productions
  7. Parasol – prod by Natate Productions
  8. Island Swing – prod by Natate Productions
  9. Royal Baby – prod by Thurge Beats
  10. Tippy – prod by Thurge Beats
  11. Lighthouse – prod by Thurge Beats

Jan. 4, 2014 *want list

Sic Ill – Vicdemic 1234 (Tacoma, 2015)

  1. The Walking Dead
  2. Closer
  3. The Pit
  4. Free Parking
  5. Rap It Up
  6. Darth Vader
  7. Jam
  8. Aladdin
  9. Fast & Hot
  10. 2 Step
  11. Fountain
  12. Transformers
  13. Revenge Of Shinobi
  14. Shatter
  15. 4 Ur Head
  16. Pots & Pans
  17. Higher
  18. Turn Me On
  19. Dancing Bare
  20. Manuscript
  21. The Jungle
  22. The Sound
  23. Potholes
  24. Blueberries

July 21, 2015

Sic Ill – Chrono Nigger (Tacoma, 2015)

  1. Corridors Of Time
  2. End Of Time
  3. Wind Scene
  4. Black Omen
  5. Ocean Palace
  6. Fanfare
  7. Secret Of The Forest
  8. Robo’s Theme
  9. Guardia Castle, Courage & Pride
  10. A Strange Happening
  11. Frog’s Theme
  12. Battle With Magus
  13. Derelict Factory
  14. Burn! Bobonga! Burn!
  15. Primitive Mountain
  16. The Chrono Trigger
  17. Bike Chase
  18. The People Without Hope
  19. Schala’s Theme
  20. Singing Mountain
  21. The Epoch, Wings That Cross Time
  22. Depths Of The Night
  23. Gato’s Song

Sic Ill – Sic Ill Productions (Tacoma, 2016)

  1. Alberta
  2. Economy Pack
  3. Federation
  4. Hisashi
  5. Keep Drawing
  6. King5
  7. Ocean Spray
  8. Pubs
  9. Soothing
  10. Sweet Cream
  11. Technician
  12. Wildlife In Art
  13. Zeus
  14. Artic Dinosaurs
  15. Ronin
  16. Trusted Excellence

*download

Sic Ill – Epidemic (Tacoma, 2018)

  1. Fantastico
  2. Did I Leave Your Mind
  3. Tippy (Seattle Anthem)
  4. Zeus
  5. Sun
  6. Jacuzzi
  7. Heardugot
  8. Don’t Cry
  9. Naked Mole Rat
  10. Old Circuitry Type
  11. Ohgee_betterfly_theend
  12. Destiny
  13. Mortal Kombat
  14. Sonar

To all you SICILLIAN’s (name for SIC ILL fans), I have one word: unique. Now that I’ve stated the obvious, let’s get down to business, there’s a lot to cover with SIC ILL! Demetrius Jackson aka Sic ill Aura, Si Aura, SIC ILL, SIC ILL aka PrettySic was born June 4th, 1987 from a single mom, dad dead from suicide. Si turned to life on the streets until his drugs were stole from him at gun point and he was beaten severely to the brink of death. Living life by himself, he had no other way to live except hustle, so he continues, as a side hustle he raps and does shows across the western United States. He prides himself as one of the few rappers from the Seattle / Tacoma area. I believe only a few of his many releases were actually released in CD format, most were when he went by the name Si Aura. As Si Aura he enjoyed local success in the early 2000’s from the singles “Get This Party Started” and “No Difference”. Six years later he recreated himself with a new flow, delivery and more rugged instrumentals to make the album “Killah Sicc” (early versions were called “killahsic“) with local hits, “No Difference” “She Got The Runs” and “Killah Season” (a bonus track from 2004’s Killah X). He then proceeded to market two albums on CDBaby, Killah X & 12 Gauge Killah. According to CDBaby Killah X was his 5th album release. Following these releases was his 2006 album as SIC ILL, 3 Day Theory, available as a 9-track album on his website then later reissued a few months later with mostly new tracks. Someone correct me if I’m wrong but I believe Vicdemic 1234 in 2015 was his only CD mixtape release, the rest were downloads only. For those of you who enjoy early SIC ILL the two Si Aura albums are available on AllMusic. Also, big ups to “The SIC ILL Archive Project” who saved me from uploading a lot of my tracks by already having most of the videos up! I’d definitely recommend their channel, it looks like a great to start to sharing some of SIC ILLs lost classics! So with all that being said, this is to the best of my knowledge SIC ILLS albums except Bieberdemic which was supposedly released in 2012. Also, at one time several web sites purported 31 albums in 31 days that were supposed to be released in July 2013, one a day on Bandcamp. Maybe I missed that, it was hyped but I personally never came across any of these albums, maybe someone out there knows if he actually did that? Finally, his last know concert in Dec 27, 2016 at The Funhouse in Seattle with Xperience, Alexander Hubbard & Mr. Von. Peep these links for SIC ILL videos. SIC ILL tunes. SIC ILL archive project. Now that we’ve got the run down out of the way let’s start with all his bio’s *a small disclaimer a lot of the links in his bios/interviews are dead.

Soundcloud, Soundclick, Reverbnation, Reddit sub, Darxiide Reddit sub, Si Aura Soundclick, Amazon: Vicdemic 1234, SIC ILL Lyrics Facebook (2012-2019), SIC ILL Puget Sound Mixtape Vimeo, and links galore from his official site, most of which are probably broken, but have at it!

Bio from SIC ILL’s blog: WHO IS SIC ILL? – “SIC ILL” (pronounced “Sick ill”) is a musician, producer, engineer, graphic designer, photographer, videographer, promoter from Tacoma, WA (30 miles south of Seattle, WA) AKA “The FreshCoast”. As a youth he went by Si Aura (Sic ill Aura) – He is currently part of DARXIIDE ENT (Click Here) – His writing works include RAPMANUAL (A “How to Rap” eBook “Click Here“), FIXFEAR (A self-help/self-esteem book) (http://www.fixfear.us) other projects include the largly publicized (click here) PUGET SOUND MIXTAPE (http://www.pugetsoundmixtape.com) VOL. 1 & VOL. 2 VOL. 3 (Disk 1)- VOL. 3 (Disk 2)- (in collaboration with fellow Seattle area Puget Sound artists $krilla, A.R. Mastermind, Greg Double & Whikid Matticuless) A Seattle/Tacoma community based networking website PUGETPRODUCERS.US (“Click here”) Urban Arts & Performance Show ROTTEN FRESH (“Click Here”) his PHOTOGRAPHY work can be found by clicking “HERE” He runs a “do-it-yourself” street team specializing in the greater Seattle/Tacoma area RAINER ZONE (“Click Here”)As a business professional, D. Jackson operates an internet promotion service GRITTYBOI (“Click Here”) His recent GRAPHIC DESIGN work can be found by clicking “HERE”. As a HOST, Sic ill does video interviews for the series SOUTH SOUND HIP HOP INTERVIEWS (“Click here”) . SIC ILL also created/administrates GRIT AREA (“Click Here”) as a free online cd distribution/press outlet for south puget sound musicians. His latest project is “STRIPE SHIRT MOVEMENT (ANTI-FEAR SUPERHEROES)” (“Click Here”) A website dedicated to his love for black and white striped shirts. SIC ILL has also taken photography with/had a chance to talk to many mainstream artists as well (COURTESY OF DIRTY GATES ENT.) (Chico Debarge, H-Town, Brian from DAY26, Brisco of Cash Money, Benzino of Source Magazine/Hip Hop Weekly) 

Biography from Soundcloud:

Biography: Born June 4th, 1987 – Demetrius Jackson, better known as SIC ILL is an American hip hop recording artist from Seattle Washington [More correctly it’s suburb “Tacoma”].

SIC ILL has an interesting flow, developed by performing since the young age of 15 in bars and clubs in the pacific northwest ranging from Spokane, Washington to Vancouver, British Columbia. Also as a videographer-traveling to shoot videos as far as Miami, Florida.

He is mostly known for his wild, slightly warped “INSPIRED MUSIC VIDEOS” ranging from “Mortal Kombat” to “Thomas The Tank Engine” to “Mcdonalds/Super Size Me” and already on his 88th video production since June, 1st, 2012.

Although SIC ILL is an independent musician/videographer he has worked with signed artists [courtesy “Factor” of Dirty Gates Ent.] such as Chico Debarge, H-Town, Benzino, Brisco of Cash Money/Young Money Entertainment, Brian Angel of P. Diddy produced MTV’s DAY26 [and alongside fellow Tacoma, WA native promoter Tom Hutch and upcoming rapper Chasten Tha Don] has performed live with Bay area rappers Luni Coleone, Rappin 4 Tay, Kuzzo Fly and Kokane of Snoop Dogg’s Doggpound records.
———-PRESS CAN BE FOUND HERE: www.ITSMYURLS.COM/SICILL

Artist bio from Rap Wiki / Fandom: 

SIC ILL (previously known as Si Aura), born as Demetrius Cornelius Jackson (June 4th,1987), is a satirical American underground rapper from Tacoma, Washington. Named SIC ILL because of his past volunteer work with a Tacoma General Hospital, SIC ILL was made famous for his video Labyrinth Zone Act 1, based on the fourth level of Sonic The Hedgehog 1 from Sega Genesis, which is currently uploaded on his YouTube channel which he joined on April 13, 2011. In 2015 SIC ILL was signed by Sacramento rapper First Degree The D.E. to the independent label Fahrenheit Records which released his debut professional album Vicdemic 1234. SIC ILL is often criticized for low budget videos and his insisting to wear the same striped long sleeve shirt in every one of his productions as well as medical scrubs and sexy yet debonair business suits. His video was featured on Worldstarhiphop in which it was criticized and praised. Let’s get it, 100% Crazy!


SIC ILL released follow-up videos to Labyrinth Zone Act 1, one of the first was entitled Spring Yard Zone on March 13th, 2015 featuring the catchy chorus “Look who’s come for dinner. Peas and chicken, finger licking…Turkey ham that’s my jam, potatoes hitting the spot!”

Artist bio from Reverbnation:

Demetrius Jackson, more known by his stage name SIC ILL grew up and currently resides in Tacoma, Washington.

25 years of age SIC ILL is proving there are no limits for his visual design or performance abilities. He has established himself as an artist to keep an eye on with incredible lyrical prowess and singing abilities generations above his age. Currently an independent artist SIC ILL is preparing his VICDEMIC 3 & 4 and STREETDEMIC 3 & 4 albums with original production for release this summer.

Sic ill released 12 albums in 2012 among them “Techdemic” given a review in the newspaper Seattle Weekly and “Epidemic” featured in a Weekly Volcano newspaper article. In 2013 Seattle Newspaper The Stranger wrote an article on his Mcdonald’s Super Size Me parody video “Fast N Hot”. Sic ill performs frequently in the Seattle area and has shared the stage with artists such as; Luni Coleone and Kokane.

With no formal promotion, SIC ILL’s videos are over 100,000+ views on YouTube and received support from VladTV, UGHH.com, Seattle Stranger Newspaper, ThaNorthwest.com, ISLMusic.com, and SYFFAL.com. Amongst all his menacing viral videos “FAST N HOT” and the Mortal Kombat inspired “THE PIT” caused quite a stir in early 2013, both racking over 10,000 views each in only a month’s span.

Since his self-produced/directed videos started making waves with fans and peers alike, SIC ILL has received accolades from the music industry at every turn, most notably Brian of DAY26 and Benzino of The Source fame [currently Hip Hop Weekly Magazine]. SIC ILL’s own lyrical idols include Nas, MF Doom, Brotha Lynch Hung. Already being compared to the likes of Drake, Kirko Bangz and Roscoe Dash, SIC ILL definitely seems like he’s on his grind and if he keeps going at the rate that he is, possibly can be the next best singer/rapper combo in the game.

Contact Information Email: therealsicill@gmail.com Phone: (253) 255-2149

Official Website: http://www.itsmyurls.com/sicill

Social Media Link

FACEBOOK: HTTP://facebook.com/SIC.ILL.MUSIC
YOUTUBE: HTTP://YOUTUBE.COM/MRSICILL
TWITTER: @SIC_ILL

iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/pandemic/id418301628

SIC ILL: FAR – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwZuyAfHE54

SIC ILL: WE WILD – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSEiSPSxRmM

SIC ILL: FAST N HOT – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwZGsVBDS1c

SIC ILL 2013 bio from Hip Hop Push Media:

2014 bio from Death Chamberz Music blog: 

Demetrius Jackson, more known by his stage name SIC ILL grew up and currently resides in Tacoma, Washington.

25 years of age SIC ILL is proving there are no limits for his visual design or performance abilities. He has established himself as an artist to keep an eye on with incredible lyrical prowess and singing abilities generations above his age. Currently an independent artist SIC ILL is preparing his VICDEMIC 3 & 4 and STREETDEMIC 3 & 4 albums with original production for release this summer.

Sic ill released 12 albums in 2012 among them “Techdemic” given a review in the newspaper Seattle Weekly and “Epidemic” featured in a Weekly Volcano newspaper article. In 2013 Seattle Newspaper The Stranger wrote an article on his Mcdonald’s Super Size Me parody video “Fast N Hot”. Sic ill performs frequently in the Seattle area and has shared the stage with artists such as; Luni Coleone and Kokane.

With no formal promotion, SIC ILL’s videos are over 100,000+ views on YouTube and received support from VladTV, UGHH.com, Seattle Stranger Newspaper, ThaNorthwest.com, ISLMusic.com, and SYFFAL.com. Amongst all his menacing viral videos “FAST N HOT” and the Mortal Kombat inspired “THE PIT” caused quite a stir in early 2013, both racking over 10,000 views each in only a month’s span.

Since his self-produced/directed videos started making waves with fans and peers alike, SIC ILL has received accolades from the music industry at every turn, most notably Brian of DAY26 and Benzino of The Source fame [currently Hip Hop Weekly Magazine]. SIC ILL’s own lyrical idols include Nas, MF Doom, Brotha Lynch Hung. Already being compared to the likes of Drake, Kirko Bangz and Roscoe Dash, SIC ILL definitely seems like he’s on his grind and if he keeps going at the rate that he is, possibly can be the next best singer/rapper combo in the game.

Contact Information Email: therealsicill@gmail.com Phone: (253) 255-2149

Official Website: http://www.itsmyurls.com/sicill

SIC ILL had a six volume mixtape series featuring some of the greatest to come out of the Puget Sound, get all the Puget Sound Mixtape Albums here or here.

Fahrenheit Records, the label owned by Sacramento underground rap mastermind First Degree The D.E, released this compilation in 2016 full of Tacoma artists. SIC ILL has two tracks; “Fast n’ Hot” and “Dancing Bare”. It is available in physical and digital formats on Amazon and iTunes.

For those that don’t know SIC ILL has authored a lot of books, some unfindable now, but most are on Amazon or you can go to his site / site.

SIC ILL also does photography, by now are you surprised? Here’s his site.

SIC ILL directed three videos that I’m aware of: tVicious – Streets Of Rage, Santana Reid/Ace Boogie – Fly Alone & A.R. Mastermind – Bounce Ft. G.B.E. & Weaz

SIC ILL also had some sick interviews, catch them here on Fresh Coast Weekly.

Interview (December 28, 2013) with SIC ILL on Crazy Pellas: 

Thanks for taking the time to do this interview Sic Ill. Tell us a bit about yourself, your name, age, where you’re from and an interesting fact if you like…
My real name is Demetrius Jackson. I go by the artist name “SIC ILL” spelled in all caps. I represent the Seattle Hip-hop scene. One interesting fact that most people don’t know about me is that I’m a prolific hip-hop writer and have over 10 books published on Amazon.com

MUSIC
Is there a story behind your name Sic Ill?
When I first started doing music my rap name was actually “Si Aura” which is short for Sic ill Aura, I later shortened it to SIC ILL as people confused me with R&B singer Ciara.

How long have you been singing/rapping?
I dropped out of high school on my 16th birthday, on the same day received my GED. That was the start of my music career.

What first got you interested in becoming a singer/rapper?
Michael Jackson influenced me to sing when I was still a toddler, but I was better at rapping so I stuck with that.

What/who inspires your music?
A few people that inspire my music are Macklemore, Eminem, Nas, Talib Kweli and Tech N9ne.

Do you see being a singer/rapper as a career, or as a hobby?
I definitely see being a singer/rapper as a career. I work, but I feel as though you can have a 9-5 and still be a professional musician.

What are you trying to do with your music? Do you want to help your community? Are you trying to get rich? What is your goal for your music?
What I’m trying to do with music is to help show my community of hilltop Tacoma, there are alternative options besides gangs and drug dealing to be successful.

Have you ever performed live? How did it feel?
I perform live frequently. I enjoy testing new material for fans. I usually only perform live the songs I know an audience will enjoy.

Do you have any kind of management, publishing or distribution team behind you? If so what are their responsibilities?
I am completely independent and manage myself. All my digital distribution comes through iTunes.

What are some accomplishments that you have achieved, and are most proud of?
There are many feats I am proud of. Two of my most important accomplishments are, being known as the most talented rapper on UGHH.com and shifting the tide of votes for Seattle’s first socialist elect Kshama Sawant to win a council seat.

Have you ever made any contact with major artists or other high positioned people in the music industry and do you keep in contact with them?
I’ve worked with many major artists among them, Benzino of Love & Hip-hop and MTV’s Day26, national artist mainly stay in contact with me through Twitter.

What one tip would you give to other aspiring independent artists?
A tip I give upcoming indie artists are to worry about yourself and what you are personally doing and try not to get wrapped up in what’s going on in radio and television.

What do you see is in the future for the music industry? How do you think it will evolve/change?
The music industry is still valuable for the mainstream connects and distribution it offers. I predict in the future independent artists will turn down major label deals more and more.

INTERNET
Do you feel like the internet is helping you as an independent artist?
The internet is helping myself personally, but not many others. The entire market is saturated with horrible quality artists with big money.

How do you think social networks such as Facebook and Twitter have affected the music industry?
Facebook has not affected the music industry the way MySpace did, I cannot think of any rapper getting famous from Facebook. Twitter has helped artist by providing a way to finally reach their followers, fans and friends 24/7.

Where can we hear your music online?
You can hear my music online by going to my YouTube channel – http://www.youtube.com/mrsicill

IN CLOSING
Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years time?
In 5-10 years time I should be teaching music of some type and giving back, hopefully not still performing and making albums.

Do you have any shoutouts you want to give?
Shoutout to my producers, Mike Myth, Victor Herman, Thurge Beats, Natate Productions and my Tacoma rap fam Tom Hutch, Chasten Tha Don, Jai Dash, Tim-E, Josh Rizeberg, Kept See and DJ Ice Man

Thanks again Sic Ill for doing this interview.

Interview (December 30, 2013) with SIC ILL on The Bandcamp Diaries:

We had a chat with Seattle hip hop artist Sic Ill, who shares his opinion on his local music scene, as well as on the current state of hip-hop. What does it take to be original these days? Read on and find out!

image

Seattle is a great place for music, of all genres. How do you relate to your local scene, and do you think it has influenced your work in any way?

I agree that Seattle is great for music, it’s still a little harder to get hip-hop acts booked versus live bands, but that’s going to happen anywhere. I make uptempo music and how I relate to the Puget Sound region probably deals with how positive [non-violent music] uplifts you through the usual dull ‘northwest gray’ days that hang around most of the year.


– What does it take to be “original” in music these days?

You have to think out the box. That television screen is the box. I feel if you pay attention to whats outside the box you can become innovative.


– What are some artists you look up to? –

Some artists I look up to are Macklemore, Eminem, Tech N9ne and MF Doom

– If you could choose only one single song off your repertoire, in order to introduce your work to a new fan, which song would it be and why?

The single I would choose to introduce a new fan would be the song ‘Fast N Hot’, not only is it a great song that sound different, the music video parody of McDonald’s 90’s characters and the movie Super Size-Me has superb visuals.

– Any future plans (releases, touring…)?
Some albums I have plans for 2014 are Maedemic 2 with fellow washington state rapper ‘Mae Dali’ , NDemic 3 with New England producer ‘Natate Productions’ and MusicDemic. I plan to tour locally again this year around Washington state and maybe Oregon.


– Anywhere where curious reader can check out your music?“

You can check out my music and all my press/social media links at http://itsmyurls.com/sicill

SIC ILL in (TACOMA EXAMINER.COM) 2010 : Sic Ill of Tacoma’s Darxiide has had an incredibly active and successful month this November with multiple opportunities to direct music videos and a collaboration request from Miami’s Brisco and Tacoma’s Factor. JuiceRadio, an online hip hop and R&B radio station debuted Darxiide artist Dru Breeze’s aka (Santana Reid) Fly Alone at the end of October during their Fresh Juice hour.  This is the first single off of his upcoming mixtape, Smoke Signals.  The song, set to the background of Wiz Khalifa‘s “Black and Yellow“, already has a music video directed by Sic Ill.  The video has had almost 700 views and very positive comments such as Shamiotzi253’s “Hard video. That’s what’s up!” Also directed by Sic Ill the first part of November, Seattle’s Weaz Huitzilopochtli of the band, First Family, debuted his music video for his single, “Number One”.  The video has received almost 500 views with viewer Cat Jeter’s review, “Smooth! Nice homegrown effect”.  Throughout November, Sic Ill has been a prolific director, also directing Darxiide artist Tvicious’ Streets of Rage featuring Nick Dominguez. Toward the end of November, Sic Ill released his 12th mixtape, Pandemic including such tracks as “This is the Soul”, “Gotta Make my Money”, and “Northwest Gray”.  The mixtape features Mo Greenz, Dru Breeze, Nick Dominguez, E Pruitt, Shame, Whikid Matticuless, Skrilla, DoughBoi, Savi Suazi, and Hypo.  Overall, Sic Ill has 8 unreleased CDs and 13 mixtapes, not including his work with Darxiide. And, finally, Sic Ill and Tacoma’s Bassrock artist and CEO of Dirty Gates Entertainment, Factor, were invited to Miami to provide behind the scenes footage and photography for Factor’s “Champion”.  The song, first recorded in Tacoma, features Brian Angel  of Day26, Brisco of Cash Money and Young Money, and Frontline Entertainment’s Maddteck and was recorded in Source Magazine’s Benzino‘s recording studio.  Sic Ill reports that he was honored to provide his talent to the project and found the whole experience an opportunity to be mentored by artists who have been in the industry much longer than he has.   Sic Ill explains, “[The] best advice they told me was to watch the really good music videos on BET [and] MTV and take notes on what they do, make sure I have good lighting, etc”. Sic Ill, along with rapping with Darxiide, lends his talent as a graphic designer, photographer, videographer, and promoter.

SIC ILL in WEEKLY VOLCANO NEWSPAPER (2012): 

Think back to 2010. Darxiide was perhaps the biggest underground local hip-hop crew making street music.

But in 2011, Darxiide was noticeably absent from the scene. They took the year off to regroup and slim down their roster. The head of Darxiide has always been and still is Sic Ill. Like Wu Tang, when Darxiide form like Voltron, he’s the head. He gets Darxiide together to record. He produces lots of their tracks. He designs the graphics, films the videos, runs the monstrous Internet marketing machine and (oh by the way) MCs.

Well, we’ve been waiting a whole year to say this, but Darxiide is back. Sic just released a solo LP, Epidemic. It’s a follow up to his 2009 album, Pandemic. The album is available for free download at sicill.bandcamp.com. The album features fellow Darxiide MCs Shame, Nick Dominguez and 211, with other guest verses supplied by Moe Greenz, Ese Cricket, A.R. Mastermind, Doughkain, Leezy Soprano and even myself.

There are two types of Darxiide tracks on this album. About half the songs are spacey, looped-out, stripped-down street bangers. The other half of the record consists of more typical boom-bap hip-hop beats. Darxiide covers all bases with this formula.

The crew has a following of young hip-hop fans that has grown to love Darxiide’s unique, drawled-out, almost syrup-induced haziness. The rest of the listeners can appreciate their young up-and-coming vocals chosen over more classic beats.

From Death Chamberz Music blog (2013): 

Seattle rapper SIC ILL is taking over the world with French Fries

SIC ILL just enjoyed another successful year.

The Drake-ish rapper/singer buzzes in the pacific northwest with a constant supply of free downloads and videos releases. He has his live show act down to, with performances at Seattle, WA’s Studio Seven venue, opening for Rappin 4’Tay, Luni Coleone, Kokane, Kuzzo Fly and is currently set to open for Roy Jones Jr. [His rap alter-ego] in the start of 2014. With fellow town heroes Macklemore & Ryan Lewis already achieving super-stardom the pressure is on for the local sensation who is compared to nationwide upstarts Snow Tha Product, RiFF RaFF and Chance the Rapper.

Seattle has a knack of having rappers that come out with great viral videos. First Sir Mix A Lot released the legendary “Baby Got Back”. Macklemore & Ryan Lewis dropped “Thrift Shop”. Seemingly as an aftershock of Thrift Shop SIC ILL’s recent success and country-wide buzz comes mainly from his million-plus viewed YouTube video “FAST N HOT”, a Mcdonalds Rap/Super Size-Me track. He also has other rap-parody/spoofs of Zelda, Donkey Kong, Monopoly, Atari classic ‘Pitfall’, Where the Wild Things Are, Star Wars, Mortal Kombat and other nostalgic topics. 

Even with the distraction of being in the limelight, SIC ILL’s only drive is to create more music and videos, with over eighty music videos in his collection already. His professionalism with videography comes from a rich history of doing film/photo work for famous acts Benzino, Day26, Brisco of Cash Money/Young Money, H-Town, Chico Debarge, Lil Cuete, First Degree The D.E. and chicano artist Baby Wicked.

Official Website/Press: http://itsmyurls.com/sicill

Twitter: @SIC_ILL – http://twitter.com/SIC_ILL

Facebook: http://facebook.com/sic.ill.music

iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/sic-ill/id418301629

Youtube: http://youtube.com/mrsicill

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/sic-ill

SIC ILL’s Innovatice Style Brings The Masses of Fans In! (from GENYCIS.com): 

While there are a lot of artists out there that continue to push the envelope with their lyrics and the tracks they deliver to the masses, the artist known as SIC ILL continues to push the envelope even further with the unique style and flava of not only his hip hop tracks, but with the production and the animation tracks that he puts together as well.  Not many look to do their own video work with animation, but SIC ILL pushes forward with that.

A perfect example of his unique flava and style is on his hit record, “Fast N Hot” which parodies McDonalds.  It is definitely a unique feel to the track, and the video and music itself draws you in and has a catchy tune to it altogether.

You Can Listen to “Fast N Hot” on Youtube

Demetrius Jackson, aka SIC ILL, is a singer / rapper / producer who is known to make his own music as well as beats and even more so, his own music videos to which he has many of on Youtube.  Along with “Fast n Hot”, he also has another hip hop track that parodies the movie Aladdin, titled “Aladdin the Music Video”.  SIC ILL comes from the Seattle area, where he has continued to produce and push out his music, drawing more and more fans not only locally, but across the nation as well.  He did this by getting through the “gatekeepers” (blogs, press, and media) and pushing his craft out with lots of videos, articles, blog posts, and interviews that helped make him the most critically acclaimed hip-hop artist in the area besides Sir Mix-A-Lot and Macklemore.

SIC ILL got into rapping and into music and video production after dropping out on his 16th birthday, and received his GED the same day so that he could pursue music.  This move would actually turn out to benefit SIC ILL as it launched his career in music and also allowed him freedom to push forward with his craft and to also run into numerous famous celebrities, models, directors, and producers as well.

Though the music industry is a tough one to get into, SIC ILL continues to push forward with his music and more in store for 2014 as well.  Be on the lookout for more to come from this well established artist, singer, and producer. 

You can reach SIC ILL via the following below:

Official Website/Press: http://itsmyurls.com/sicill
Twitter: @SIC_ILL – http://twitter.com/SIC_ILL
Facebook: http://facebook.com/sic.ill.music
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/sic-ill/id418301629
Youtube: http://youtube.com/mrsicill
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/sic-ill
Bandcamp: http://sicill.bandcamp.com/

Much respect on your craft SIC, keep grinding and pushing the music forward!  Salute!

SIC ILL is Seattle’s Top Underground Artist in 2013 (from If I Listen blog): 

Demetrius Jackson, the artist known as SIC ILL is a singer/rapper [See Drake/Kirko Bangz] who makes his own music videos and often his own beats. He is mainly known for his self-directed animated music videos such as “Fast N Hot” which parodies fast-food chain Mcdonalds and “Aladdin – The Music Video”. SIC ILL is spelled in a bunch of caps “SIC ILL”, his name is probably in reference to upcoming Westcoast rapper RiFF RaFF, but I could be wrong, I say this because they are both strange rap musicians with SIC ILL’s style leaning towards the BasedGod himself “Lil B”. The start of SIC ILL’s music career began when “SIC” quit school on his sixteenth brithday, and received his GED the same day to become a rapper. This was the beginning of his new life/career which would lead to numerous run-ins with famous celebrities/models/producers/directors.

SIC ILL is well known in the Seattle-hip hop scene but with a scene so notoriusly dope it takes a lot to get respect from gatekeepers (blogs/press/media), but eventually he found his way by garnishing 100’s of articles/blogs/interviews which makes him the most critically acclaimed hip-hop artist in the area besides Sir Mix-A-Lot and Macklemore.

On a promotion tour for Dirty Gates Entertainment in Florida, he met hip-hop mogul Benzino of “The Source” “Hip Hop Weekly” and “Love & Hip-Hop” who mentored him briefly for a couple days behind mixing boards in his personal studio. At the same time he was also mentored by Brian Angel of P. Diddy’s R&B supergroup ‘DAY26’ for several weeks, these traumatic events proved to be invaluable when he would return to the Seattle music scene. Immediately when he returned to Washington State he would perform in hundreds of locations and make hundred of music videos.

What makes SIC ILL so great is his dope lyricism. At first I was impressed by his work-ethic, but as I dove deeper and found the lyrics for his songs I realized he is a high caliber emcee along the likes of a J. Cole, Lil Wayne or Nas. Unfortunately, like Lil Wayne, sometimes Sic’s bars sound great but lack depth. It’s too bad Macklemore & Ryan Lewis have Seattle sown up [See Macklemore & Ryan Lewis: Thriftshop] or SIC ILL would definitely be Seattle’s best rapper.

In a world full of super-rich rappers with expensive music videos showing unrealistic big booty women, Bugattis and 100 million dollar mansions, SIC’s low-budget videos/mixtapes seem much more relatable and real than most artists. His introspective music and videos showcasing the Pacific Northwest and overall brand screams REAL HIP HOP, and it’s refreshing.

I’ll end the information overload with one last page that seems to sum it all up. I’m going to pass on cross-referencing all the material on this page with what I’ve already put up. I’ll let the reader gloss through and maybe they’ll be a tidbit in here you didn’t know (or a link that actually works haha). From the blog, Future Slice (2015): 

Sic ILL Press Release + Music Video links

Demetrius Jackson, more known by his stage name SIC ILL grew up and currently resides in Tacoma, Washington.

SIC ILL is a videographer/musician famous for the catch phrase “Let’s get it!” and the viral video “Labyrinth Zone Act 1”. He is parodied by Eminem in the music video “Rap God”.

 SIC ILL is proving there are no limits for his visual design or performance abilities. He has established himself as an artist to keep an eye on with incredible lyrical prowess and singing abilities generations above his age. Currently an independent artist SIC ILL is preparing his VICDEMIC 3 & 4 and STREETDEMIC 3 & 4 albums with original production for release this summer.

Sic ill released 12 albums in 2012 among them “Techdemic” given a review in the newspaper Seattle Weekly and “Epidemic” featured in a Weekly Volcano newspaper article. In 2013 Seattle Newspaper The Stranger wrote an article on his Mcdonald’s Super Size Me parody video “Fast N Hot”. Sic ill performs frequently in the Seattle area and has shared the stage with artists such as; Luni Coleone and Kokane.

With no formal promotion, SIC ILL’s videos are over 100,000+ views on YouTube and received support from VladTV, UGHH.com, Seattle Stranger Newspaper, ThaNorthwest.com, ISLMusic.com, and SYFFAL.com. Amongst all his menacing viral videos “FAST N HOT” and the Mortal Kombat inspired “THE PIT” caused quite a stir in early 2013, both racking over 10,000 views each in only a month’s span.

Since his self-produced/directed videos started making waves with fans and peers alike, SIC ILL has received accolades from the music industry at every turn, most notably Brian of DAY26 and Benzino of The Source fame [currently Hip Hop Weekly Magazine]. SIC ILL’s own lyrical idols include Nas, MF Doom, Brotha Lynch Hung. Already being compared to the likes of Drake, Kirko Bangz and Roscoe Dash, SIC ILL definitely seems like he’s on his grind and if he keeps going at the rate that he is, possibly can be the next best singer/rapper combo in the game.

SIC ILL – ALADDIN – The Music Video

Check out the official video on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGeKoE0Cpl4

The latest of SIC ILL’s entertaining videos. The Seattle, Washington emcee lives the Aladdin lifestyle of a city beggar in this animated flash and real-life film adaption.

Sic ill has also been recently publicized in numerous blogs/media/press:
[SEATTLE STRANGER NEWSPAPER] http://lineout.thestranger.com/lineout/archives/2013/03/15/the-return-of-the-tac-town-food-rap-sic-ills-fast-n-hot
[NORTHWEST MILITARY] http://www.northwestmilitary.com/music-and-culture/features-and-columns/2010/12/The-year-in-Tacoma-hip-hop-2010/
[WE OUT HERE MAGAZINE] http://www.weouthere.net/2013/04/17/sic-ill-speed-racer/
[MUSICYOUNEED.NET] http://musicyouneed.net/2013/04/22/welcome-to-the-underground-volume-24/
[ESCOESAYZ.COM] http://escoesayz.com/2013/04/30/talent-tuesday-sic-ill-far-speed-racer-evel-knievel/comment-page-1/
[BLODWARSMAGAZINE.COM] http://www.bloodwarsmagazine.com/blog/?p=22383
[SAYNOMO.COM] http://saynomo.com/videos/sic-ill-sic_ill-far/
[SYFFAL.COM] http://www.syffal.com/sic-ill-filter-free-rodeo
[NW-TV.COM] http://www.nw-tv.com/music-videos/sic-ill-fast-n-hot
[VLADTV.COM] http://www.vladtv.com/blog/162363/sic-ill-we-wild-donkey-kong-pitfall-duckhunt-zelda-inspired-music-video/
[MSTVONLINE.ORG] http://www.mstvonline.org/2013/03/seattle-sic-ill-fast-n-hot-mcdonalds.html
[BRINGINGDOWNTHEBAND.COM] http://bringingdowntheband.com/welp-sic-ill-the-walking-dead-video/
[RAPREVIEWS.COM] http://www.rapreviews.com/news/View.php?ArticleID=17920
[ISLMUSIC.COM] http://www.islmusic.com/islm-newsletter/indie-talent/new-indie-talent-sic-ill-pink-elephants-official-video-2
[BEATTAPECO-OP] http://beattapeco-op.blogspot.com/2012/12/sic-ill-maedemic-album-2012.html
[CHEDDACHECKAZ.COM] http://cheddacheckaz.com/2012/10/21/sic-ill-irepresent-video-fandemic/
[GOJUICERADIO] http://www.gojuiceradio.com/sic-ill-reps-for-tacoma-winning-76th-faceoff/
[TOMB 2 DA WOMB] http://toknowaveil.tumblr.com/post/44499755697/sic-ill-fast-n-hot-mcdonalds-super-size-me
[FREQUENCY.COM] http://www.frequency.com/video/36-sic-ill-jam-sir-mix-lot-baby-got-back/84965793/-/5-541
[PEACE MAGAZINE] http://www.blog.peacemagazine.com/2013/03/04/sic-ill-fast-n-hot-mcdonalds-super-size-me/
[DVNWORLD.COM] http://dvnworld.com/?p=1154
[THEGASMASS.NET] http://www.thegasmass.net/2010/12/sic-ill-pandemic-album.html
[SHELBY.TV] http://shelby.tv/video/youtube/09alcdmzURY/sic-ill-blame-video-fandemic
[VINTAGEDRIVING.COM] http://vintagedriving.com/19-sic-ill-spittaz-ameridemic-tacoma-dome-americas-car-museum-mckinley-park-tacoma/
Check out SIC ILL’s full length movie/musical: YOUTUBEDEMIC
on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DewV4VtYogk

Demetrius Jackson, the artist known as SIC ILL from Tacoma, Washington is proving why he’s one of the best netcees on the web. He recently finished a self-produced/directed full length movie/musical “YOUTUBEDEMIC” and it’s accompaning soundtrack on iTunes. This is the first rap “musical/music album” video and uses all 22 songs and lasts over an hour and fourteen minutes.

The songs all are shot in Sic’s hometown of Tacoma, Washington, a mid-sized city, 30 miles south of Seattle. All his audio sounds vintage because he prefers to record everything in analog quality. He stretches the boundaries of the akai XR20 drum machine on this album self-producing every track. All sounds are recorded in digital multitracks instead of Pro Tools. HD footage is intentionally shrunk to standard video. Masters are re-encoded to MP3 format. This is done to make it easier for his social media audience to consume.

Sic ill does not rely on itunes, he also uses his voice and skills to sell audiobooks on sites like Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble. A worthy career alternative for someone who’s skills include being a journalist and graphic designer.

A true Netcee, the only way to find Sic ill is in his hometown. He makes up for this by opening for national artists as they headline their way through Seattle, Portland and Vancouver B.C., 2013’s openings include Luni Coleone, Kokane of Dogg Pound Records, Kuzzo Fly and Messy Marv.
SIC ILL – Revenge of Shinobi [VID/MP3] + Rapper releases 31 mixtapes in 31 days…

Check out “Sic ill’s” 40th music video – “Revenge of Shinobi”
SIC ILL – Revenge of Shinobi – [Youtube] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGu8y-JXZd0

SIC ILL MANIA !!! 31 mixtapes in 31 days

Rapper makes 31 mixtapes in 31 Days…

In a publicity stunt inspired by Gorilla Zoe’s “28 mixtapes in 28 days” in February 2010, the self-proclaimed “Netcee” SIC ILL will be releasing 31 mixtapes for every day in July 2013. Each mixtape will have it’s own theme, some are full-fledged albums with original production, others are mixtapes using famous instrumentals.

Recently in June 2013, SIC ILL released the first rap movie/musical. The video “YouTubedemic” plays for almost an hour and a half. The video is the rap equivalent to R&B singer R. Kelly’s “Trapped in the Closet” and plays all 22 tracks in tracklisting order on the self-produced YouTubedemic soundtrack available on iTunes.

In an Ozone magazine interview after his feat, Gorilla Zoe stated that he did not think this could be redone and he could go 365 days if he wished. Sic is not going so far as putting a mixtape every day for a year unsuprisingly and is staying with his 31 day strategy.

“Like Zoe said, he made the blueprint, I just peeped game.”

All Sic ill mixtapes will be available on http://sicill.bandcamp.com/ on the day of release.

July 1 – Vicdemic 3 – Produced by Victor Herman
July 2 – NDemic – Produced by Natate Productions [New England]
July 3 – Streetdemic 3 [Industry Mixtape]
July 4 – Katy B Demic [Rap Lyrics over United Kingdom singer Katy B beats]
July 5 – […To Be Announced]

SIC ILL – Revenge of Shinobi [Youtube] – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGu8y-JXZd0

“SIC ILL” makes a tribute song for the NBA western conference champion San Antonio Spurs. “2013 Western Conference Champions” Tribute Song
SIC ILL – The Spurs
Youtube – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ci0-dRxp9gk

SIC ILL – Blueberries + The Video Re-Up

#52 SIC ILL – Blueberries – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jj0SHC8nRI
Northwest rapper SIC ILL films at a Blueberry Park

THE VIDEO RE-UP
#40 SIC ILL – Revenge of Shinobi
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGu8y-JXZd0

#41 SIC ILL – The Spurs [Edo-G & Pete Rock – Boston]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ci0-dRxp9gk

#42 SIC ILL – Pots and Pans
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4KIz8fJvDPo

#43 SIC ILL – A Perfect 16 Bars [Aceyalone – The Faces]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SHlS3U9KX5I

#44 SIC ILL – Micheala [Sadistik – Micheal]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EC8ZwUMeoWk

#45 SIC ILL – Perfect Stranger [Katy B – Perfect Stranger
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUTF19SYWpk

#46 SIC ILL – Self Made [Inspectah Deck – What they Want]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMW2GaEDCGc

#47 SIC ILL – On A Mission [Katy B – On A Mission]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=trmJ_A8QK4o

#48 SIC ILL – Dance With Myself [Riff Raff – Bird on a Wire]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpSf2NOY6RA

#49 SIC ILL – Shatter
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-Yk7CiXWzo

#50 SIC ILL – Higher
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbcXg-T6e7Q

#51 SIC ILL – Soccer Game [Prod. Natate Productions]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-njBngeE_Jg

#52 SIC ILL – Blueberries
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1jj0SHC8nRI

#53 SIC ILL – Manuscript
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXpPfQ2sZEU

#54 SIC ILL – Another Round of Lies
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UU_L3720nZQ

#55 SIC ILL – Flowers [Vast Aire – Why’sdaskyblue]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t0zyg_XoWIM

#56 SIC ILL – The Jungle
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SmYVRrtY2sU

SIC ILL – Ferry Boats
Pacific northwest rapper SIC ILL [sick-ill] directs and stars in this music video highlighting the Ferry Boats used in the Seattle area. Original production from Natate Productions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCzG69jguk0

 Seattle’s “other” superstar rapper [almost completely overshadowed by the ultra-popular Macklemore], the famous netcee SIC ILL. [Sick-ill] makes 100s of self-directed Music Videos on his youtube channel, some animated, others weird, some great, some not-so. Already being compared to the likes of Lil B, Snow Tha Product and Kreayshawn [206Proof.com] [UGHH.com] [Seattle’s The Stranger Newspaper] Performed live and shared the stage with the likes of Kokane of Doggpound Records, Rappin 4 Tay, Luni Coleone, First Degree the D.E., Kuzzo Fly and many more as well as numerous occasions as a professional photographer while previously living in Miami, Florida with famous musicians H-Town, Chico Debarge, Brian Angel of Day26, Lil Cuete, Benzino of Love and Hip-Hop, Brisco of Cash Money/Young Money Records, artists in the Seattle-Hip Hop scene and many more
 Seattle rapper SIC ILL is taking over the world with French Fries

SIC ILL is enjoying a successful 2013.

The Drake-ish rapper/singer buzzes in the pacific northwest with a constant supply of free downloads and videos releases. With fellow town heroes Macklemore & Ryan Lewis already achieving super-stardom the pressure is on for the local sensation who is compared to nationwide buzz sensations Snow Tha Product, RiFF RaFF and Chance the Rapper.

Seattle has a knack of having rappers that come out with great viral videos. First Sir Mix A Lot released the legendary “Baby Got Back”. Macklemore & Ryan Lewis dropped “Thrift Shop”. Seemingly as an aftershock of Thrift Shop SIC ILL’s recent success and country-wide buzz comes mainly from his million-plus viewed YouTube video “FAST N HOT”, a Mcdonalds Rap/Super Size-Me track. He also has other rap-parody/spoofs of Zelda, Donkey Kong, Monopoly, Atari classic ‘Pitfall’, Where the Wild Things Are, Star Wars, Mortal Kombat and other nostalgic topics.

Even with distraction of being in the limelight, SIC ILL’s only drive is to create more music and videos, with over eighty music videos in his collection already.

SIC ILL – “Tippy” [Seattle Seahawks NFL Championship Remix][Radio Clean]

Artist: SIC ILL

Song: Tippy

Year: 2014

Produced: Custom Instrumental provided by “Thurge Beats” – https://twitter.com/thurgebeats

Description: Seattle, Washington musician “SIC ILL” makes a song for his city after his hometown “Seattle Seahawks” win a NFL championship. References Richard Sherman, Marshawn Lynch, Russell Wilson, Ichiro, Gary Payton, Felix Hernandez

Youtube Music Video: SIC ILL – “Tippy” – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VStm9ux4eMM

Song included. SIC ILL – “Tippy” – Custom Instrumental provided by Thurge Beats [https://twitter.com/thurgebeats] [Radio Clean Instrumental] MP3 320 KBP

Seattle Hip-hop artist “SIC ILL” drops a nostalgic video about Sonic The Hedgehog level “Labyrinth Zone Act 1”, Using the level music and all. Trippy…

SIC ILL – Labyrinth Zone Act 1 [Official Video]
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22eeZneaGNY

SIC ILL​ – Marble Zone (Music Video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dY2L3y6EoEk 

iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/pandemic/id418301628

SIC ILL: FAR – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwZuyAfHE54

SIC ILL: WE WILD – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSEiSPSxRmM

SIC ILL: FAST N HOT – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwZGsVBDS1c

Contact Information Email: therealsicill@gmail.com Phone: (253) 255-2149

Official Website/Press: http://itsmyurls.com/sicill
Twitter: @SIC_ILL – http://twitter.com/SIC_ILL
Facebook: http://facebook.com/sic.ill.music
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/sic-ill/id418301629
Youtube: http://youtube.com/mrsicill
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/sic-ill
Official Website: www.itsmyurls.com/sicill

Social Media Link

FACEBOOK: HTTP://facebook.com/SIC.ILL.MUSIC
YOUTUBE: HTTP://YOUTUBE.COM/MRSICILL
TWITTER: @SIC_ILL

All you fans will probably get a kick out of this, some old SIC ILL aka Si Aura. Check out the notes from the Killah X CDBaby page back when it was still up & running! 

Hope you had a good 2005!

– Daily Hood Advice January 20, 2006 –
“Doing the same thing over and over and hoping for a different outcome is considered insanity.”

– Yesterday’s Hood Advice for January 19, 2006 –
“Abortion is ultimately up to the mother, not the mama or baby daddy.”

– Check Back everyday for more hood advice –

Si Aura aka Killah is back with his 5th album release “Killah Season” (Killah X). This album brings him back to his hardcore (horrorcore) roots. The production on this album is much better than on his previous albums as well. The album starts off with a bang with “ITS GOIN DOWN” feat. Darxiide then the Neptunes sounding “TURN IT UP A NOTCH” comes on and gives this album the hit radio song his other albums may have lacked. “NO DIFFERENCE” is a track that is put on all his releases and is no doubt the best track he’s ever made. After this comes “ROLL UP ON A NEGROE” an underground cult classic and possibly his best underground tracks. I don’t wanna give the rest of his album away so I’m going to leave it at this. Other Notable tracks include “DARK CLOUD”,a masterpiece of a track and “CONVERSATE” feat. The Notorius B.I.G. . 4.75/5 stars (Rap Indiez Magazine)

“Possibly the best rap album I’ve heard on CDbaby and I’ve been listening to albums on here for years” (DJ F it Up)

Buy This CD Now At its discounted price of $12.00 it can’t get any better than that. And when you buy it, bonus tracks also come on here, including one with the late Notorius B.I.G. This price is for a limited time only so hurry.

You can also catch Si at these sites

MIGENTE as thephantomblue0
BLACKPLANET as Si_Aura
MIXEDRACE as Si_Aura
PAXED as Si_Aura
SOUNDCLICK:
http://www.soundclick.com/artist/7/siaura_music.htm

http://www.cdbaby.com/si5 “Killah Season” – Si Aura

-short bio-
Born from a single mom, dad dead from suicide. Si turned to life on the streets until his drugs were stole from him at gun point and he was beaten severely to the brink of death. Living life by himself, he had no other way to live except hustle, so he continues, as a side hustle he raps and does shows across the western united states. He prides himself as one of the few rappers from the seattle tacoma WA area.

OnlyShorty4U wrote:
“I luv your site Si. Everyday before school I read your hood advice and check up on what you do. I like the mp3s you send me every month too. Your so freakin cool! Write me back Plz baby.”

BUY THIS ALBUM…

MORE GHETTO ADVICE of Dec
“All work and no play, makes your hair gray.”

About reviewers: I sincerely appreciate any reviews that people give me, but if all you’re going to do is yap about sum dumb shit and put me down, PLEASE jus shut the fuk up, nobody likes a critic…

IT’S GOIN DOWN!

And here’s the notes from 12 Gauge Killah: Si Aura aka “Killah” has returned with a new underground style that compares with the hardest underground rappers on the westcoast. Check Out track 6 “Smile” and track 12 “No Difference” . Very similar to Brotha Lynch, Esham, Tech N9ne, Keak Da Sneak and X Raided. (Darxiide)

And finally, it only seems fitting to end all this information with a quiz, Do You Know SIC ILL?

151 / O.T.M.S. / Jymini / Octavia Harris

151 – Drank No Chasa’

  1. Side A – 01 – 151
  2. Side A – 02 – Puttin ‘n’ Work
  3. Side A – 03 – Drivin Lyrics
  4. Side A – 04 – Buffalo Soldias
  5. Side A – 05 – Life Story
  6. Side B – 01 – P.O.
  7. Side B – 02 – Smokearth features Mizzery
  8. Side B – 03 – Steppin’ Up features Mizzery
  9. Side B – 04 – Sista2Brotha features Oodie
  10. Side B – 05 – The Remix

Octavia The Mic Strangla (O.T.M.S.) – Walking On Water (2CD) (Portland, 2000)

  1. Disc One – 01 – Welcome
  2. Disc One – 02 – Walking On Water f/ Filthy Gray
  3. Disc One – 03 – f/ Davon
  4. Disc One – 04 – My Daddy (Background Vocals: Toni Hill / Tonie Gatlin)
  5. Disc One – 05- Waterface$ f/ Q7
  6. Disc One – 06 – Good Musik
  7. Disc One – 07 – Not Ashamed! (Chorus Vocals: Abdi S)
  8. Disc One – 08 – How We Roll f/ Q7
  9. Disc One – 09 – 360
  10. Disc One – 10 – Rekindle The Flame
  11. Disc One – 11 – Turnin’ Point f/ Luck (Lead Chorus Vocals: Terrance Robinson)
  12. Disc One – 12 – 4A-Lifetime (Chorus Vocals: Davon / Famous Amos)
  13. Disc Two – 01 – Trapped Up
  14. Disc Two – 02 – Sweet Dreams
  15. Disc Two – 03 – Blood On Your Hands (Intro: Johnny Hollingsworth)
  16. Disc Two – 04 – End Times (Performed by Vivian O’neil)
  17. Disc Two – 05 – The Enemy f/ Davon
  18. Disc Two – 06 – Lil’ Chief
  19. Disc Two – 07 – Pick Up The Phone (Back Vocals: Toni Hill)
  20. Disc Two – 08 – Get In The Groove f/ Q7
  21. Disc Two – 09 – When The Beat Drops
  22. Disc Two – 10 – World II Know
  23. Disc Two – 11 – Soldiers
  24. Disc Two – 12 – Bonus Track
  25. Disc Two – 13 – 5gzy Representin’
  26. Disc Two – 14 – Nationwide f/ Misschiviss
  27. Disc Two – 15 – Really, Really

Jymini – Special Delivery (CD+Video) (Portland, 2001)

  1. Freaky Thangz
  2. Gimme Love
  3. Girlz Pimp 2
  4. D.O.I.T.B.I.G
  5. BANG BANG
  6. J & E
  7. Some NiggaZ
  8. Fast Lane ..
  9. Dead n My Eyez
  10. Hussla

Jymini – The Solo Child (Portland, 2003)

  1. Intro
  2. G’z Walk To
  3. Do What We Do f/ Sykojo
  4. 2Bad f/ Assassin
  5. Put Cha Blinkerz On
  6. The Solo Child
  7. We Micfiendz *Interlude*
  8. A.I.D.S f/ Mr. Mysterious, Sykojo, Da Da Flech & Assassin
  9. Bang And Ride
  10. DoItBig f/ Suga T
  11. Some Ni**az
  12. Bringin Tha Heat f/ Lil’D.V.S.
  13. You&Me f/ Assassin
  14. Ease My Mind
  15. Love Like Me f/ Agerman
  16. Outro

Jymini – All Of Me (Portland, 2005)

  1. Did You Know?
  2. Rox Da Mic
  3. Speedbumpz feat. Nahlance
  4. My Reality Is This
  5. I See A Better Day
  6. From The Hood
  7. Let You Go feat. Krook
  8. Freak U Babe feat. Sydal & Deesha
  9. Tho It Up
  10. Choice 2 Choose feat. Krook
  11. Love Pain & Addiction
  12. Yo Last Day feat. Marquis Gordon, Lady Lust & Q
  13. Bring It All Back (Outro)

Octavia Harris – 4 The Children (Portland, 2006)

  1. 4 The Children ft. Da Chosen 1
  2. Make U A Star ft. eXcelsius & HOOD
  3. What It Iz
  4. One I Love
  5. They Still Yours ft. Lil Ash & Brothatone
  6. Grind
  7. Sista 2 Brother ft. Soul P
  8. Slippin Slippin Slippin Slippin
  9. Brother In Christ
  10. Putcha Head Up ft. YSG-Timothy
  11. Coolin Out
  12. Deeper ft. D.Reed
  13. Passin By (R.I.P. My Brother Joe)
  14. (Bonus Track 1)
  15. (Bonus Track 2)

Octavia Harris – Inspired By God (Portland, 2006)

  1. Intro
  2. Fellowship Wit Me
  3. Aint Yo Show
  4. Give It All
  5. Up Until Now..
  6. Fiyah!
  7. Dat Good Stuff
  8. Send Love
  9. Make Sum Noise
  10. On My Knees
  11. Ultimate High
  12. Temporary Resident
  13. Hold On (Y.N.O.T.)
  14. Power In The People

Octavia Harris – Radical Sabbatical (Portland, 2007)

  1. Radical Sabbatical
  2. Enjoy The Sun
  3. God In U
  4. Different Kinda Luv feat. D.Reed
  5. 4 The Ladies
  6. Sum Encouragement
  7. November 04
  8. Back 2 Tha Crib
  9. All Around The World feat. Serenity
  10. Put U 1st
  11. Bring It On
  12. We Came To feat. Hood
  13. Wita Combination feat. K-Drama
  14. Everything feat. Sista O

Octavia Harris – The Free Mixtape (Portland, 2007)

  1. Whiter Than Snow
  2. It’s Ova
  3. Call Tha Pastor feat. G-Quinn The Crucifer
  4. That Body by Octavia Harris
  5. N2Existence feat. Hood & Dae-Lee
  6. Rum-n-Coke
  7. Single Life feat. ProzperaD
  8. All The Way!
  9. Proud 2 Be a .. feat. LaQuisha Hankens & Cameron
  10. Watch These Moves
  11. Make U A Star (Remix) feat. Excelsius & Hood
  12. Right Here feat. RO The Disciple
  13. Alright
  14. Burdens Light
  15. O’s Promo Intermission
  16. In The Middle feat. Hood (Bonus 1)
  17. Us Girls feat. Zeeda, Samantha Coleman & Mystyc (Bonus 2)
  18. Nuthin But Danga (Bonus)
  19. Choice 2 Choice feat. Kevin Strickland (Bonus)
  20. See A Better Day (Bonus)
  21. Did U Know (Bonus)
  22. Love Pain & Addiction (Bonus)
  23. Das My Word (Bonus)

Octavia Harris – Be Myself (Portland, 2014)

  1. Bout To Lose It
  2. Never
  3. You Satisfy Me
  4. I Can See The Sun
  5. Faith On Max (Doubt On Zero)
  6. Future
  7. 925
  8. Be Myself
  9. J I M R
  10. Still Here
  11. Secret Weapon
  12. Anonymously
  13. Turn That Music Up
  14. My Ting Bless
  15. Body Language
  16. Compromised Confession
  17. Again
  18. You Are Amazing (Bonus Track)

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.

And another bio from The Holy Hip Hop DataBASE:

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!

Fogey

Fogey – Visions EP (Wenatchee, 2014)

  1. These Are The Moments
  2. Life Around
  3. No Other Love
  4. Get Up Off Me (feat. Mista Snipe)
  5. Pickin’ Petals

Fogey from Reverbnation, “We don’t have time for my Biography, we can save that for a book, or my lyrics!!! My music speaks for itself, I am a lyrical artist, I love to tell a story, and my life has been full of plenty of material for that. I write all my own music, according to how I feel, think, live, and do. 100% real emotionally charged music that moves people!!!”

You can grab some of Fogey’s singles off most major streaming outlets and on his YouTube page. I haven’t been able to find a full length album, just the Visions EP. If anyone knows more leave a comment.

Fogey – What I Do (beat by M-Status)
Fogey & Mista Snipe-Get It If You Want It (Radio) – 2010

The BreakLites

The Breaklites – New Dogs, Old Tricks EP (Tacoma, 2010)

  1. Give It Back
  2. This Is For The
  3. Get Away
  4. A Love Story

The Breaklites – Pack Your Bags (Tacoma, 2011)

  1. Introducing
  2. My Story
  3. Check It Out
  4. Gettin Busy
  5. A Girl Named Quest
  6. Interlude
  7. Captain Crunch
  8. The Breaks
  9. F*ck You
  10. Get Away
  11. Peroxide
  12. All I Want To Do
  13. Diggin It
  14. Pack Your Bags
  15. Nothing

The Breaklites – Dance Hall (Single) (Tacoma, 2011)

  1. Dance Hall

The Breaklites – Robots & Daytons (Tacoma, 2011)

  1. Intro
  2. Robot’s Don’t Have Feelings
  3. Rock
  4. Do You Wanna Get Funky
  5. Happy
  6. Dance Hall
  7. Tapatio
  8. Keep Moving
  9. Bounce

The Breaklites – RAPFACE (Tacoma, 2011)

  1. Time
  2. Style
  3. Satisfaction
  4. The Funk
  5. Like That
  6. I Wanna
  7. No
  8. Goodlife

The Breaklites – In The Trunk (Tacoma, 2012)

  1. BOOM!
  2. I Quit
  3. Can’t Tell You
  4. So Electric
  5. I’m Going To Hell (Feat. EvergreenOne)
  6. Knock Em Out (Feat. Jai X Jrm)
  7. In The Trunk
  8. That Shit (Feat. Todd Sykes)
  9. Tony Starch
  10. Down
  11. Lean
  12. Hummingbird
  13. I Got

The Breaklites – I Love America (Tacoma, 2014)

  1. Fill It Up
  2. Shine
  3. Evel Knievel
  4. I Love America
  5. Lites
  6. Fly Swatter
  7. Spun
  8. Gasoline

The Breaklites are John McRae (Guitar/Production), Cruel (MC/Production) and Craig V (DJ). “No one could ask for more from a hip-hop ensemble than what The Breaklites offer. With two MCs, a DJ, and a multi-instrumentalist producer, they kick out thrilling live shows and records. They’re young, fashionable, and eager, but they have the professionalism and discipline of veterans. Their productivity is undeniable, having completed six record projects and three tours since 2010. They released their sixth record, I ♥ America, January 7, 2014. It’s an adroit, well-assembled record — polished and physical, doused with sarcasm and lit to blaze with raucous, move-thyself rhythm. And, in keeping with the precedent set by the previous two records, it contains no sampled musical material.” – Dan Rahe”

BL_1

Published on February 15th, 2014 | by Zach Powers2

The Breaklites and a People’s History of Independent Hip-Hop

With the release of their new album, I ♥ America, local hip-hop artists The Breaklites have captured and revitalized something essential about alternative rap. To articulate just what that “something” is – to define it for myself – I had to find context.

It’s not just the content, but also the distinctive sound of independent rap that I love, and The Breaklites are a brilliant example of what’s so compelling in contemporary, indie hip-hop.

Independent hip-hop music has never had a unified sound. It’s an art form that has, for the past 35 years or so, expanded exponentially, embracing sub-genre movements linked by cultural elements, including but definitely not limited to geography, politics, philosophy, and style.

One such movement formative to many millennial hip-hop heads like myself was the alternative underground hip-hop movement of late 1990s and early- to mid- 2000s, also known as conscious or backpack rap.

I’m casting a wide net here, referring to communities united by independent labels like Rhymesayers and Definitive Jux, and including legendary groups like Atmosphere, CunninLynguists, Little Brother, Hieroglyphics, and The Living Legends. I’d even include artists like Talib Kweli, Mos Def, and Pharoahe Monch as leaders in the genre, though they all achieved much greater commercial success than most of their peers.

Emcees of this movement found a new space on the rap spectrum, combining the unapologetic bravado, braggadocio, and vulgarity they shared with gangsta rappers with unabashed, critical examinations of economic and racial injustice.

Beyond lyrical content, the sound of independent hip-hop of the time was also distinctive. Although the music of this movement differed (largely due to regional influences), producers (like Jay Dilla, Ant, and 9th Wonder) shared a love for vinyl records, and the style was defined by loops built on classic soul, funk and jazz samples.

Hip-hop was conceived to the backdrop of looped vinyl, and for most of rap’s history, the use of samples has been production standard. In the late 1990s to mid 2000s, sampling was perhaps at it’s peak, with mainstream producers like Kanye West, Puff Daddy, and Just Blaze crafting massive hits prominently featuring the technique.

However, toward the end of the 2000s, an interesting consensus developed: if hip-hop music was going to continue to evolve, it had to largely cut ties with sampling and set a new precedent of original compositions and instrumentation.

Led by producers like the Neptunes, El-P, Timbaland, and 40, by the end of decade even the most veteran vinyl samplers were desperately trying to learn to play keyboards and network with instrumentalists. Around the same time sampling become taboo, the trendsetting momentum of the 90s hip-hop innovators slowed and many struggled to adapt in a sample-cynical climate.

But as a whole, the art forms associated with hip-hop have only benefited from the shift. In my opinion, there is more phenomenal hip-hop music being made throughout the world now than ever before. And the signature elements of alternative hip-hop music remain the same: magnetic bravado, intellectual rhymes, and neck-breaking beats equally appropriate for a house party, dance, or Occupy protest.

The Breaklites (Photography by Kali Raisl)

My generation’s leading emcees have not only broadened the hip-hop spectrum, but more than ever, they have insisted on confidently occupying the space in the middle, combining and challenging elements of the genre at every opportunity.

But despite the broadening and diversification of both mainstream and alternative hip-hop music, the previous wave of DIY hip-hop seemed to take with it a sense of shared experience that is sorely lacking in lyrics today. What’s lost in Kendrick Lamar’s self-aggrandizing or Macklemore’s jubilant sincerity is the once essential communication that the everyday thoughts and experiences of emcees aren’t so different from those of the average 18-25 year old.

The camaraderie between rapper and listener has faded. That focus on connection that made artists like Brother Ali and Dilated Peoples so profound is becoming a lost art.

It is possible that the new challenge to stand on one’s own musical and merits, without the crutch of sampling, has made it difficult for many hip-hop artists to round out their arrangements with a real sense of humanity. But not so with The Breaklites.

With I ♥ America, Emcee Cruel (aka Alex Fazekas-Boone) and producer John McRae take The Breaklites’ art to new levels, racing past the achievements of their previous work. Throughout the album, Cruel shares his socio-political reflections using character stories, concepts, and direct observations. Every song finds him acutely focused on reflecting the album’s title (which you should have determined by now is ironic), but maintaining – if not further developing – his trademark cool, dry wit.

It’s Cruel’s tough, calm delivery that allows him to broach subjects and utter lyrics that in the hands of other emcees, especially many from the Pacific Northwest, would surely come off corny, if not contrived. In the song the Fly Swatter (my personal favorite on the album) he raps “I won’t defend my rights to strip the poor of theirs / I won’t surrender battle with my hands in the air.”

Fly Swatter embodies not only the presiding themes of I ♥ America, but also the themes that a over a decade ago inspired my passion for alternative hip-hop. “We the misfits / this that new punk rock / on the west side homie let the guns talk / we came to burn the bridge / watch em all jump off / keep your suits on / your funeral is next dog.”

Lyrics like these are far too often delivered energetically by emcees seeking to anoint themselves leaders of the masses. But Cruel doesn’t deliver them with youthful gusto, rather his statements are mature and genuine threats to the status quo.

Like many alternative rap legends, Cruel isn’t necessarily delving into social topics to change minds or as a call to action. But he is challenging his audience to think. He is sharing with his listener, one-on-one, about his perceptions of humanity. He raps like we’re sharing a cigarette together outside of a bar and our conversation happened to swing to politics or cultural independence. He’s got brilliance to share, but isn’t hellbent that you join his team.

While Cruel raps like a guy who has been listening to hip-hop since he was learning to walk, McRae is the type of producer who could just as easily be making rock, funk, or pop records and is undoubtedly influenced by a medley of genres. He plays every instrument you hear on the album, which by the second or third song becomes difficult to count. His production builds and improvises as songs develop, refreshingly bucking many current trends.

McRae’s musical aptitude also lends itself masterfully to the The Breaklites live set. Throughout their album release show McRae played guitar, keys, drum machine, and even vocoder, reflecting the welcome shift toward incorporating live musicians into hip-hop stage acts.

McRae’s musicianship, combined with Cruel’s commanding stage presence and hypeman Alex Schelhammer’s energy, make The Breaklites one of Tacoma’s best live sets. You’d struggle to find a more polished and enjoyable live performance from an up-and-coming hip-hop group anywhere in the country. And more than that, the Breaklites have revitalized that connectivity with their listeners that has always meant so much to me.

It is quite an achievement for new hip-hop artists to capture the best of current trends while reveling in its history. That is how you catch peoples’ attention and build a career worth noting. The Breaklites deserve no less, and I ♥ America deserves your ears.

DOWNLOAD OR STREAM I ♥ AMERICA

About the Author

Zach Powers Zach “Rockwell” Powers is a Tacoma-based emcee, freelance journalist, and arts advocate.

And another article about The Breaklites!


IMG_1107

Published on January 8th, 2014 | by Daniel Rahe

The Breaklites Learned the Rules and Know How to Bend Them

The Breaklites “I ♥ America” Album Release Party – Saturday, January 11, 9pm, Jazzbones (with Mr. Melanin, Perry Porter, and The Fame Riot)

“The American system is the most ingenious system of control in world history. With a country so rich in natural resources, talent, and labor power the system can afford to distribute just enough wealth to just enough people to limit discontent to a troublesome minority. It is a country so powerful, so big, so pleasing to so many of its citizens that it can afford to give freedom of dissent to the small number who are not pleased. There is no system of control with more openings, apertures, leeways, flexibilities, rewards for the chosen, winning tickets in lotteries. There is none that disperses its controls more complexly through the voting system, the work situation, the church, the family, the school, the mass media–none more successful in mollifying opposition with reforms, isolating people from one another, creating patriotic loyalty.” – Howard Zinn

“I will fuck hella pandas.” – John McRae

~~~~~

No one could ask for more from a hip-hop ensemble than what The Breaklites offer. With two MCs, a DJ, and a multi-instrumentalist producer, they kick out thrilling live shows and records. They’re young, fashionable, and eager, but they have the professionalism and discipline of veterans. Their productivity is undeniable, having completed five record projects and three tours since 2010.

They released their sixth record, I ♥ America, this week. It’s an adroit, well-assembled record — polished and physical, doused with sarcasm and lit to blaze with raucous, move-thyself rhythm. And, in keeping with the precedent set by the previous two records, it contains no sampled musical material.

The Breaklites

The Breaklites (L-R: John McRae, Alex Schelhammer, The Mayor, Cruel) Photos by Kali Raisl

“We make different music than we used to now that we don’t use samples,” said MC Cruel. “I mean, this record doesn’t sound like hip-hop to me, really, other than the rapping. It’s not the boom-bap shit I used to like. To me, it sounds electronic.”

Producer John McRae added, “Well, it’s not just party music, though. A lot of it is darker.”

Indeed, there is something darker going on, something not so easily categorizable. There is weary social consciousness in the lyrics, and a broad range of musical influences in the beats, from funk to rock to R&B.

The Breaklites do not present themselves as a complex, self-serious act. They emanate a let-loose, good-times vibe that belies their musicianship and the host of tricks in their playbook. McRae’s opening guitar lead on the title track, for example, is downright poignant, and wouldn’t sound out of place on a Death Cab for Cutie song. Then, before the reverb is quite fully faded, MC’s Cruel and Alex Schelhammer start lobbing dirtbombs of mockery at American consumerist culture, as if they came in on the heels of War Pigs.

Photo by Kali Raisl

The dynamic structures of the songs are not accidents. “The way we structure our songs is driven by our live performances,” said The Mayor, the group’s DJ. For The Breaklites, concerts are crucial. On stage, their charisma and versatility are on full display.

In keeping with their commitment to live performance, The Breaklites have learned the value of presenting heady ideas in clever, engaging ways, taking time to hone arrangements that eschew traditional hip-hop song formats. They wanted to put out a record that riffs on regrettable elements of U.S. culture (“I wanted to offend every idiot who can’t read between the lines,” said McRae), while keeping their audience entertained.

The album release concert for I ♥ America is this Saturday, at Jazzbones on 6th Avenue (ticket details here), with Mr. Melanin* (100% Post Defiance-approved DJ), Perry Porter (the damn-fucking-good MC behind the new record “Kings Only”), and The Fame Riot.

The decision to play Tacoma, rather than Seattle, was deliberate. The Breaklites want to participate in a supportive Tacoma musical community, though it has been difficult to make connections. “We want to play shows with other people,” The Mayor said, “We want to share audiences and get different kinds of people together.” They even played a stint of shows with hardcore punk and metal bands at the now-defunct Redroom.

The Breaklites in their studio (Photo by Kali Raisl)

As Alex Schelhammer put it, “Tacoma is a city full of hardworking motherfuckers who work their asses off all day, and when they get home, they just want to kick back and have a beer. It’s hard to convince them to go out to a show, to go do something with art — unless it’s nice outside. But people need to get out, otherwise, they’re starving themselves in a way. Like a panda that won’t fuck to save its species.”

“But all that to say, we’re doing fine here,” said Cruel. “We’re finding our way. We fuck with pandas.”

From across the room, McRae echoed, “I will fuck hella pandas.”

About the Author

Daniel Rahe Founder of Post Defiance, Dan is a father, surveyor, writer, and runner.

The Breaklites released their first project New Dogs, Old Tricks EP in November 2010, and followed it up with three more projects in 2011 starting with Pack Your Bags in February, Robots and Daytons in May and Rapface in December. Following the release of Robots and Daytons the group added Alex Schelhammer (Hypeman Extraordinaire) to the crew.

During the summer of 2012 the group released their most successful album to date, In The Trunk, and performed sold-out shows (including SXSW). The crew is now back in the studio working on the next project due in December 2013, a full-length album called I Heart America.

Finally, to wrap things up, John McRae did have at least one solo release, a beat album called “Space. Time. And Mojo Too.”

Skrilla

Skrilla – Seattle Seahawks Featuring Scrooge & Big Telli (Tacoma, 2014)

  1. Seattle Seahawks

This following is an old school (2010-ish) bio on a Skrilla from the NW area. Also, all the links were dead in his bio so I didn’t link them up. “$krilla is CEO and artist of Platinum Dream Records. He has been performing and recording hip-hop for over 7 years now. $krilla has performed all over the south sound and has plans to expand. $krilla is releasing his album the beginning of next year and has excellent plans for the future of his business. His captivating sound and energy separate him from the rest and his talents deserve to be listened too. Follow his links to hear his overwhelming sound.”

http://www.myspace.com/therealbigmoney

http://www.myspace.com/platinumdreamrecords

http://www.myspace.com/535939143

http://www.reverbnation.com/therealbigmoney

$krilla was also one of the administrators of PugetSoundMixtape.com. “Puget Sound Mixtape Releases are administrated by several hip hop icons from Seattle/Tacoma Area: “Sic ill” (of Darxiide) “$krilla” (of Platinum Dream Records) “Greg Double G” (of Blue Nose Music) “A.R. Mastermind” & “Whikid” – If you have any questions or want to contact us, please email – PUGETSOUNDMIXTAPE@GMAIL.COM”

Enjoy this interview from the now defunct, Tacoma Hip-Hop Music Examiner (thanks Wayback Machine!) “

Check Out $krilla if ‘You’re Tired of Your Man Always Trippin’ at Home’ (PSM 2010 Interview series)

June 27, 2010 by Deborah Halasz

In the first of a series of profiles of featured artists from the Puget Sound Mixtape released on June 11, 2010; Examiner.com is privileged to share the talent of Gerald “$krilla” Beamon.

His song, “Seduction”, is track number 7 on the Puget Sound Mixtape, and tells the simple message of a girl needing the love and affection she isn’t getting from her man, and another man just waiting to give her what she needs.

$krilla is not new to the hip hop scene.  He has been performing for quite awhile across the Puget Sound, and he has learned that persistence is the key to perfecting his craft.  He shares “My most challenging show was the 1st all ages show I did at the old “Brick City” here in Tacoma.  It was me, my cousin Shadow, and my homie, Bounce.  We got booed, and any artist who loves what they do will agree that it is one of the worst feelings to experience”.  While first impressions can be damaging, $krilla continued to perform in Tacoma, Seattle, Olympia, Bremerton, Ocean Shores, and Portland.  His lyrics as both an emcee and a storyteller reflect the individuals who have inspired him:  Slick Rick, TI, Furious 5, Snoop Dogg, Tupac, Run DMC, and others.  He also attributes his talent to his mom.  Of LL Cool J, he explains, “I have been working on my craft since the first time I turned on the radio.  I used to have this little red tape player that had a microphone on it, and I would play LL Cool J’s ‘I Need Love’ and sing along to it in the microphone.”  That craft began and continues to develop in Tacoma, his first song being “Work It from the Middle”.

$krilla is a somewhat new artist name for Gerald who originally went by the name Money.  In all his gigs, big or small, he always found a way to earn money.  It wasn’t too much of a jump, then, to create his current name $krilla, as he was determined to create a legitimate persona for all his fans and venues.  He has since brought his skill and talent into production with Platinum Dream Records, engineering with DKG Studios, promotion with Unconfined Promotions, and graphic design with Eagle Art Designs.  He is an entrepeneur as well as musician taking leadership of all these organizations.

In addition to $krilla’s contribution to the Puget Sound mixtape, he intends to release his first official album, “Likwid Sunshine“, later this year.  He will also be joining artists The Nuggz, Krucial Bars, Serious Mak, Shoalin, and others this summer during “The Calm B4 the Storm” tour.  The artists are expected to travel throughout Washington state and feature all forms of hip hop music.  Tour dates and locations can be found at $krilla’s myspace.

To learn more about $krilla, check out his myspace and his Reverbnation page. site.

The Puget Sound mixtape is available for a free download at Bandcamp!

Audio Tracks

$krilla

  1. Seduction (Puget Sound Mixtape Vol. 1)
  2. Thass Wasup (need this one .. help!)
  3. Thru It All (need this one … help!)

So now that we know Skrilla’s real name is Gerald Beamon who now goes by Realife, enjoy some of his new stuff on Spotify and Youtube!

Lil Fiendz (Fiendz)

Lil Fiendz – The Remixes Vol. 1 (Yakima, 2011)

  1. Aston Martin Music
  2. Monster
  3. Come On Baby
  4. Moment 4 Life
  5. Miss Me
  6. 6 Foot 7 Foot
  7. Hustle Hard
  8. The Show Goes On
  9. Words I Never Said (ft. Dreamz of FNO)
  10. Can A Drummer Get Some
  11. Im On One
  12. Steady Mobbin (ft. DNA)
  13. Kush
  14. Still DRE
  15. Deep Cover
  16. HiiiiPoWeR
  17. Red Nation

Lil Fiendz Presents …The Remixes Vol. 2 (Yakima, 2011)

  1. She Ain’t You
  2. Look At Me Know
  3. Dreams Money Can Buy
  4. Hometown Hero (ft. Soldier Slette)
  5. Gettin’ Paid
  6. Grenade
  7. Loyalty
  8. What U Doin
  9. Motivation
  10. D.O.A.
  11. On To The Next One
  12. A Star Is Born
  13. No Love
  14. Donald Trump
  15. La La
  16. Pretty Boy Swag

Fiendz – Long Way Down (Yakima, 2014)

  1. All The Signs (Of A Dying Nation)
  2. Bust Back ft. Original
  3. Like It Or Not ft. DreamzOne
  4. Sands Counting Down ft. Andre & Lil Dough Boy
  5. Tired
  6. Want That Dance
  7. Succubus (So Good)
  8. Take Your Time ft. Drastic
  9. L.W.D.
  10. It’s Been A While

Fiendz – No Idiom (EP) (Yakima, 2015)

  1. Infatuated (Right Here) – If You Want (feat. Macadamian)
  2. Never Say No (feat. Fame & M-Status)
  3. Funhouse
  4. Ex-Change (feat. Andre)
  5. You Got Me (Freeverse)
  6. Waves (feat. Suave Loc & Bowser)

Felix Ulloa aka Lil Fiendz hails from Yakima, Washington. Once a part of the duo F.N.O., he has since gone solo and released a couple mixtapes, an album and an EP. Besides some places on the net where you can find his music, there isn’t much more about him.

The Remixes Vol. 1 From F.N.O.‘s (Fear No One/Failure’s Not an Option)own Lil Fiendz. A collection of remixes that came out over the 1st 10 weeks of his weekly remixes over songs by Lil Wayne, Drake, Rick Ross, Kanye West, Nicki Minaj, Lupe Fiasco, Saigon, Travis Barker, DJ Khaled, Dr. Dre, Game & Kendrick Lamar. If you like these songs be sure to check out more of his tracks on reverbnation just search Lil Fiendz of F.N.O. (page removed).

The Remixes Vol. 2 From F.N.O.‘s (Fear No One/Failure’s Not an Option)own Lil Fiendz. A collection of remixes that came out during weeks 10-15 of his weekly remixes over songs by Chris Brown, Drake, Big K.R.I.T., Trae Tha Truth, Bruno Mars, Birdman, Big Sean, Kelly Rowland, Jay-Z, Eminem, Mac Miller, Lil Wayne & Soulja Boy. If you like these songs be sure to check out more of his tracks on reverbnation just search Lil Fiendz of F.N.O. (page removed)

From Datpiff (Long Way Down): I wrote the majority of this mixtape late 2012-early 2013, when I was just going through each day with a really negative state of mind, I wouldn’t really call it a depression, but at the time I had just become angry or frustrated with anything, everything and everyone around me. The mixtape was originally gonna be called Hedonism but I decided to change the name to Long Way Down because it was the best way to describe how I was feeling at the time. Stupid, I know, but I’m sticking to the name. Anyways I’m going to let this mixtape speak for itself. But if you listen to it, I just ask that you listen to it from front to back. Thank you for listening. Credits: released 08 July 2014. Features in order of appearance: Original DreamzOne (FNO) Andre (211 Mafia/D$B/Kurse Productions) Lil Dough Boy Drastic (Money Bags Ent.). Production courtesy of (all beats used for non-profit promotional use): The Alchemist Anno Domini Beats AraabMuzik DJ Mustard/Ear 2 Tha Beat Johnny Juliano Thraxx Beastos 2 Deep Productions Telling Beatzz Scram Jones/Chris Calor/The Antydote & Buckwild. Recording, mixing and mastering by: Andre (211 Mafia/D$B/Kurse Productions). Additional recording & mixing courtesy of: Lil Dough Boy. Thank you to everyone who helped me or supported me in one way or another during the making of this mixtape, even if you may not know you helped or not, I still greatly appreciate it!

You used to be able to download the mixtapes on Datpiff but sadly it looks like they’re down for the count. You can pick up the album and EP on Fiendz Bandcamp page. The back insert of Long Way Down has many dead links; Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, ReverbNation, however, the Soundcloud link is still live and there’s even some newer music (2016) that may have been part of a new album (My Eve) that was never released? If anyone has any more information on Fiendz, leave a comment!

FNO

F.N.O. – The Confessions (Yakima, 2011)

  1. Up In The Clouds (ft. Fame)
  2. Im Your Biggest Fan
  3. What We Got
  4. Clownin Around
  5. Cannot Stop (ft. Lil Savage & Looney of Knok Out Klick)
  6. Speak My Language (ft. Crispy)
  7. Racks (ft. Wero)
  8. Creepin Sick
  9. Nights We Cant Remember
  10. Standing In The Rain
  11. Welcome To My City (ft. Troubled Mind)
  12. Time Flies By (ft. Miggy The Kid)
  13. Light Up
  14. Ride Til Death
  15. One (ft. Enzo & Original)
  16. To Tha Top (ft. Suave Loc)
  17. Never Hold Me Down (Hustlin) (ft. Andre & Retro)
  18. Flossin

FNO – Kick It (Single) (Yakima, 2014)

  1. Kick It (Ft. Macadamian & M-Status)

FNO (Fear No One/Failure’s Not an Option) consists of Oscar Paz aka DreamzOne & Felix Ulloa aka Lil Fiendz, formed around 2009. Barely coming up in the Yakima local hip hop scene. They have worked with other great artists from the valley. With features such as Suave Loc, Troubled Mind, Retro, Crispy, Andre, Wero & Miggy the Kid as well as Fame, Lil Savage & Looney of the Knok Out Klick, Enzo, Original, this showcases FNO working along some of the dopest artists of the valley, whether big name or also on the come up. Enjoy the mixtape for now as we will soon be dropping bigger and better projects. Just like the title of their very 1st mixtape, this is “Just the Start“!!! Get both the album and single, head on over to their Bandcamp page & grab them while you can.

Shao Sosa (Shaolin)

Shaolin – Baby Dragons & King Cobras (Pasco, 1998)

  1. Baby Dragons And King Cobras feat. Pork
  2. Drunken Mantis
  3. Let Me Show Ya
  4. Let Me Smoke
  5. Street Lecture
  6. Every Time I Close My Eyes
  7. Too Many MC’s (Not Enough Mics)
  8. Eastern Northwestern
  9. Deep
  10. Verbal Homicide
  11. Cause And Effect
  12. You Can Call
  13. Jackin’ For Ears
  14. Global Destruction feat. Pork
  15. Broken
  16. Bonus

Bullet & Shaolin – Smalltown Livin Big City Game (Bellevue/Pasco, 2001)

  1. Small Town Livin’ (Big City Game)
  2. U Ain’t Done Shit
  3. Let Me Ride feat. Mad Ro
  4. Eastside Riderz feat. Jazz, Kay Kay and Arjay
  5. Tonight feat. Arjay
  6. Ur Bad
  7. For The World feat. Jazz
  8. What I’m Lookin’ For feat. Jay Tee
  9. My Folks
  10. I Want You feat. Kay Kay
  11. For So Long – Arjay feat. Bullet
  12. Soakin’ Up My Game feat. Jay Tee and Arjay
  13. I’m All That I Got
  14. This One Time feat. Arjay
  15. Til’ The Sun Goes Down feat. Nuke Bomb (M.O.B.) and Arjay
  16. Round And Round feat. Arjay
  17. I Can’t Smile feat. Vursatyl of Izaya
  18. – 23. Snippets from Dedication and Desire*

*never released

Shao Sosa – The Gateway Drug (Tacoma, 2011)

  1. Hello Again
  2. Enjoy The Show feat. Arjay
  3. Everything feat. Arjay
  4. Feelin’ Good, Feelin’ Great
  5. 1, 2 (Yes Y’all)
  6. Kiss Of The Dragon feat. Arjay
  7. Exhale
  8. Rally feat. Big Tupp
  9. What Time It Was feat. Illizm
  10. Real Good Time
  11. Undeniable feat. M-Status
  12. And You Know This
  13. Love Is Blue
  14. Like Geah
  15. Ours For The Taking feat. On One
  16. Get It All Together feat. Arjay
  17. Lover

Shao Sosa & Luck-One – Bomb On My Chest (Single) (Pasco, 2012)

  1. Bomb On My Chest

Shao Sosa & Young Nobi – Lone Wolf And Cub (Single) (Pasco, 2014)

  1. Lone Wolf And Cub

Shao Sosa – Featuring Shao Sosa 2002-2016 (Pasco, 2016)

  1. Inner Aggression feat. Abom & Shao Sosa (Lost Soul)
  2. Ain’t Changed feat. Shao Sosa (Anawim & On One)
  3. Three Kingz feat. B-Dub & Shao Sosa (Illizm)
  4. We Can Roll feat. Shaolin (BG Church)
  5. Lights Out feat. Awall aka 2piece, Cam The Viking & Shao Sosa (Krisis)
  6. Let You Tell It (Mob Mix) feat. B-Legit & Shao Sosa (White Boy Will)
  7. Patiently Waiting feat. Shao Sosa (Arjay)
  8. The Terrorist feat. Shao Sosa (Poltergeist)
  9. Slow Dance feat. Bryson Foster & Shao Sosa (Sarenity)
  10. Addicted 2 The Pay feat. Greg Double, 5ive 3re, Tactical & Shao Sosa (Blue Nose Music)
  11. Representing feat. Shao Sosa (Jason F)
  12. Top Left Remix feat. Dikulz, Nobi, Karma, B. Schuler, Dirtbag DRRL, Blayze_One, Chris Davis & Shao Sosa (C. Ray)
  13. Lyric Sword feat. J. Factor, Sebs & Webs & Shao Sosa (Lotus)
  14. Been Around feat. Shao Sosa (Abom)
  15. Bomb On My Chest feat. Shao Sosa (Luck One)
  16. The Truth feat. Shao Sosa (Arjay)
  17. New Eyes feat. Lone Wolf and Kub (Lost Soul)
  18. NW Factors feat. C. Ray, MD 20/20, Mo Mil, Chris Davis & Shao Sosa (Johnny Lyrics)
  19. One Last Job feat. On One & Shao Sosa (Blayze_One)
  20. Lone Wolf and Kub feat. Shao Sosa (Lone Wolf and Kub)
  21. Saigon Napalm feat. Shao Sosa (Shao Sosa)
  22. Way Other feat. Shao Sosa (Mr. D.O.G.)
  23. 3000 feat. Mac Dre & Shao Sosa (Shaolin)

Lone Wolf and Kub – Lone Wolf and Kub (Pasco, 2018)

  1. Bolo Yeung
  2. Street Fighter
  3. Lone Wolf & Kub
  4. Pixels
  5. Vintage
  6. Missed Education
  7. No Water
  8. Blue
  9. Under
  10. Mirror’s Edge
  11. Launch

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 planning the 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:

John L. x Chris Davis – Stand The Rain; On One – Out The Sky; Greg Double – Way Up; Arjay – Lover; Young Ronnie – Take My Name; Pork – Right Now; Mo Mil & Ree – 4th Quarter Tactics; Mac Money – Way Other; Playas Association V2 Compilation – Don’t Hate The Playa; Northwest Game Compilation – This One Time; Owens N Beech Street – Da Service; Pork/Side N On You – Right Now; Pork/Side N On You – Broken; Certified – Get It Right; Bullet – Don’t Hate The Playaz & Don’t Hate The Playaz II; Bullet – Tears Fall; Bullet – Top Notch Hoe; Bullet – That’s Me; Bullet – It’s Alright; Bullet / North Coast Rain – Against All Odds; Guilty Til Proven Innocent Compilation – Don’t Need Her; Big Squeeze – Keep It Gangsta; Mr. D.O.G. – I’m A Boss; The $kratchounds – 4th Qtr; Pork/Under The Influence – Dollar Focus; Pork/Under The Influence – Madman’s Journey; Pork/Under The Influence – Slip; Pork/Under The Influence -Game Of Dank; J-Rod & Big Wilson – Worthless; White Boy Will – “I”; White Boy Will – All Mine; White Boy Will – Let You Tell It; Tha Northwest Volume One Compilation – Enjoy The Show; Champagne James – Lights Out (on his album); Boombox Massacre – The 509 (Home).

Shao Sosa was also featured on all the Mighty Mixtapes.

Exhale
The Truth

Here’s some Live! vids for y’all: 1,2 (Yes Y’all) and Live @ Top Shelf Thursdays in Parkland with BW & Illizm.

Check out more & keep current with Shao Sosa on all his social media platforms: Facebook – Reverbnation – Twitter – Instagram and Razor Tongue Radio. Don’t hesitate to grab some of his music on his Bandcamp and Soundcloud page, as well as all major streaming outlets.

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.

Unique

Unique – Eternal (Spokane, 2007)

  1. Intro
  2. Move
  3. The Storm
  4. On The Line Feat. Frijiea
  5. Hungry Feat. Jinx, Seven & Z-Chase
  6. Spittin’ Venom
  7. Destiny Feat. Sintax & Shelby
  8. My Love Feat. Ray Vasquez
  9. Hard To Say Feat. Shelby
  10. 100 Bars
  11. Walkin’ To The Graveyard
  12. Whatever It Takes Feat. Frijiea
  13. DiedX2
  14. Unpredictable
  15. Running Out Of Time Feat. The Voice
  16. Set It Off Feat. Khanstant
  17. Lets Smoke Feat. Sintax, Jinx, Shelby
  18. Everyday Ft. Sintax, Z-Chase, C-Flow, Dallas P
  19. Eternal Feat. Shelby
  20. Ashes To Ashes

Unique – Sigh Of Relief (Spokane, 2009)

  1. Sigh Of Relief
  2. All I Know
  3. Ride Or Die Feat. Javauna Hollowell
  4. Fast Lane
  5. Game Don’t Stop
  6. Pocket Full Of Money Feat. Biz
  7. Lilac City Feat. BG Church, On One
  8. No Problems Feat. Luni Coleone, Skeptical
  9. Set Me Free
  10. Where Do We Go
  11. Hard Road
  12. International Feat. C-Flow, Z-Chase
  13. Who’s That
  14. What’s It Gon’ Be w/ Dallas P.
  15. Lord’s Will Feat. Javauna Hollowell
  16. Callin’ My Name Feat. Dallas P., Shelby M.
  17. Constantly
  18. Get Up Feat. Zany, Rod Mac, Super Saa

Unique – Ready For Whatever Vol 1 (Spokane, 2010)

  1. Laughing Matter f/ Preemo
  2. Lyrical Opus f/ Stratigy
  3. Exec Mobbin f/ Stratigy
  4. Spittin Sideways
  5. Lilac City f/ BG Church (Certified), On One
  6. The Hangover f/ Jamal Ali, Biz, On One
  7. Game Needs Change w/ Z-Chase
  8. So High f/ Stratigy
  9. Test Of Time
  10. Ready For Whatever f/ Preemo
  11. Lyrically I’m…
  12. Under Pressure f/Shelby McKinnon
  13. Worse Come To Worse
  14. Let’s Smoke f/ Jinx, Sintax, Shelby McKinnon
  15. King Me
  16. Love And Happiness
  17. Step Yo Game Up f/ Stratigy, Tybud
  18. I’m Like… f/ Rod Mac, Stratigy
  19. I Know You Want Me f/ Javauna Hollowell
  20. Witness w/ Sintax, Fat Cuz

Unique – Ready For Whatever Vol. 2 (Spokane, 2012)

  1. Grind, Hustle
  2. Monster Mash
  3. Gotta Have It f/ JCS
  4. Bounce
  5. Get That Money f/ Skeptical
  6. Right Now f/ Dime City, Rod Mac
  7. Motivated f/ Swindle (Certified)
  8. Feelin Right
  9. Rejuvenated f/ Neema
  10. There They Go f/ Cool Nutz
  11. On The Road f/ Skeptical, 2Soul, Supa Saa, DTL
  12. What It Iz f/ Young Jay, Stratigy
  13. What I Do f/ Javauna Hollowell
  14. Turn It Up f/ Shelby McKinnon
  15. A Day Closer
  16. Illumination f/ On One, Angela Boone
  17. All Or Nothing f/ Javauna Hollowell
  18. Touch The Sky f/ Javauna Hollowell

Unique – A Day Closer The LP (Spokane, 2013)

  1. Intro
  2. Grind, Hustle
  3. Turn It Up Ft. Shelby McKinnon
  4. Motivated Ft. Swindle (of Certified), Jamal Ali
  5. In The Fast Lane
  6. There They Go Ft. Cool Nutz
  7. Sick And Tired Ft. Jamal Ali
  8. Rejuvenated Ft. Neema
  9. Feelin Right
  10. Celebrate Ft. Dallas P
  11. Bounce
  12. Nine Lives
  13. The Hangover Ft. Biz, On One, Jamal Ali
  14. I Know You Want Me
  15. We Can Ride Ft. Shelby McKinnon
  16. What I Do Ft. Javauna Hollowell
  17. Hard To Live
  18. Gotta Have It Ft. JCS
  19. A Day Closer
  20. Touch The Sky Ft. Javauna Hollowell

Unique – Going Through It (Spokane, 2014)

  1. Going Through It
  2. Sweet Dreams
  3. Jumpin
  4. Stars Align f/ Arjay
  5. Oh Lord
  6. Grind, Hustle (Remix)

Unique, Nick Klepacki, is a hip hop artist hailing from Spokane. Sonicbids has a nice bio telling us more, “Unique is the self proclaimed “Dopest in the Northwest”. He also says that he is ready to be at the top of the game and become the “Dopest in Hip-hop”. Unique’s fan base continues to grow everyday because of his descriptive imagery, colossal punch lines, and intelligent word play. Not to mention a deep voice inflection that at times resembles the late Tupac Shakur and a flow that has the slight bounce of a modern Notorious B.I.G. (not a typical comparison for a white rapper I might add). His lyrics tell stories of overcoming obstacles, staying motivated, and trying to rise above the restraints that society has set. Unique also speaks on pain, spirituality, politics, street life, relationships, sex, and partying. With such a wide range of topics you can expect to see a large mix of different backgrounds and ethnicities listening to Unique’s music. Whether male or female it is easy to relate and become a fan.

Born on June 7th of 1986 in Spokane, WA, Unique was always infatuated with music. He started beat boxing at a young age and started writing rhymes at age 11. His stage name was given to him by a close childhood friend because of his high level of creativity and his ability to succeed when all the cards where stacked against him. Unique recorded his first song at age 14 and dropped his first independent album Eternal (2006) at the age of 20. Since then he has released a steady stream of albums and mix tapes (seven releases total) including his most recent and most anticipated album the A Day Closer LP (2013). His total independent sales have reached over 20,000 units, not to mention over 100,000 streams and downloads with very little promotion and no major marketing. Unique also has close to 1,000 performances under his belt including opening for the likes of Naughty By Nature, Do or Die, Scarface, E-40, Twista, Nipsey Hussle, Ying Yang Twins, Rittz, and Obie Trice just to name a few. He is now working on his next project entitled “Going Through It” and has scheduled it to be released on September 23rd of 2014 with a national tour to follow.

Unique remains one hundred percent independent and owns his own company, Keep Pushin Entertainment LLC. He also has experience in recording, mixing, and production. With his multiple talents and his ambition to succeed it is expected that Unique will soon be an internationally recognized Hip-hop artist with a career that will define longevity.

Sonicbids and the inside of “A Day Closer The LP” lists two other releases by Unique, “Another Day Another Dollar” (2008) and “A Day Closer… The EP” (2010). I’ve never seen these two albums (want list!), but if someone wants to sell their copy, hit me up! I believe the last album Unique released was his EP, Going Through It, since that time it looks like he’s been focusing his energy on his own company. Side note, I’m curious if Shelby McKinnon is related, sister maybe, to Adrian McKinnon, another Spokane star. Spokane’s Inlander has more information, check it out!

Bustle & Flow

A local emcee and two Moses Lake transplants have turned a head shop into an independent music mecca.

By Jordy Byrd

Nick Klepacki, also known as Unique, at FTH Music

For a while last Saturday, the FTH Music & More grand opening was a one-man show. DJ Beauflexx played to an empty room. The party had been delayed until later in the afternoon. The barbecue needed picking up, T-shirts needed hanging. The graffiti sidewalk signs hadn’t been painted. And balloons don’t blow themselves up.

FTH (F— the Haters) Music & More officially opened its doors in March but last weekend’s grand opening marked the dawning of a new musical venture. Brother/sister duo Venita Trujillo and Juan Cervantes took over the lease for the store on North Monroe Street (formerly Herbal Discoveries) nine months ago and have turned the former head shop into a space for local hip-hop music.

The storefront sells independent music, its own urban clothing line, and jewelry by consignment. CDs from the Street Pharmacists, Rod Mac the Ripper and local emcee Unique line the shop’s three glass cases. Screen-printed shirts with brass knuckles on the front and white booty shorts are adorned with the company’s two tag lines — “F–the Haters” and “Bitches are Hoes, Dude.” They still have glass tobacco pipes and “aroma therapies and spices.”

“We got into the promoting business in December and saw how good it was doing,” says Venita Trujillo, who recently moved here from Moses Lake. “There’s a lot of local artists but not a lot of spaces for them to put their music. Our main focus is that we are a small business, and we’d rather keep our money and profits in the community instead of like mainstream businesses like Hastings.”

Since December, the FTH promotion company has hosted the Planets of the Apes Tour, Mistah F.A.B., Jacka, Yuckmouth, and the upcoming Gorilla Zoe concert at A Club. But in order to build a strong urban hip-hop scene, promoting shows and selling local music isn’t enough, Trujillo says.

The store also built a recording studio — Keep Pushin Entertainment — in the back of their shop.

The recording studio looks like something straight out of Hustle & Flow. A fake white leather couch sits in the hallway. A closet lined with eggshell insulation is where vocals are recorded.

“There are less than a dozen professional studios in Spokane that are trying to build a scene out here and keep it going,” says Nick Klepacki, also known as Unique. “Right now we’re trying to focus on hip-hop and that specific demographic. We’ll kind of see how things go then, and take it from there.”

Klepacki met the Trujillo and Cervantes at the Mistah F.A.B. show last year and now co-owns the Keep Pushin studio. The trio share a similar passion for music and want to help local musicians record an album, sell their material or simply put together a demo.

The goal, he says, is to create an independent scene — similar to what Tech N9ne has done with Strange Music, his independent hip-hop label.

Klepacki says they aren’t the only players in the Spokane scene, but they’re slowly getting recognized.

“Insyders’ kiosk [at NorthTown Mall] definitely paved the way for this kind of stuff in Spokane,” he says. “But now we’re trying to pave our way off of that. It kinda led us to the road that we’re going to take now.”

FTH Music & More • 2415 N. Monroe St. • Open Mon-Sat 10 am–10 pm • 327-4372

It seems Unique has scrubbed most if not all of his social media, but you can find some of Unique’s music on major media streaming outlets. You can still download both of his mixtapes on Bandcamp and Datpiff, although I’m not sure Datpiff is working so well these days (if at all), so get them while you can!

Anawim

Anawim – The Arrival (Spokane, 2007)

  1. Behold
  2. The Arrival
  3. Because
  4. This World Feat. C-Flow
  5. Honestly Feat Sonik Blaksmif & Sintax
  6. Daggahz Feat Sintax
  7. Instrumental Interlude
  8. Tree Of Woe
  9. Deeper Than Ezekiel
  10. Clothed In The Sun Feat Jennette Perkins
  11. Fathomless Sea
  12. Calm Blade
  13. Children (Interlude)
  14. The Stick-Up
  15. Defang The Wolves
  16. Face Defeat
  17. Lets Build
  18. Longevity (Instrumental)

Anawim & On One – Iron Sharpens Iron (Spokane, 2010)

  1. Do It The Best feat. Charlie Ray
  2. Even If It Kills Me feat. Charlie Ray
  3. Face The Music
  4. Flesh n Blood feat. Jinx
  5. Heaven feat. Unique
  6. Iron Sharpens Iron
  7. No Place Like Home
  8. No Problems
  9. Steppin Over
  10. Vice Versa
  11. Welcome To My World
  12. Zone Of Light

On One & Anawim – The Niche (Spokane, 2014)

  1. Overture
  2. Showtime feat C.Ray
  3. Back At It
  4. Can’t Lose
  5. Heads Or Tails feat C.Ray and True Justice
  6. Guess Who feat Q-Biz
  7. Let Em Go feat C.Ray
  8. White Jacket feat Jinx
  9. Blues Like This feat Black Mikey
  10. Bottom Line
  11. Ain’t Changed feat Shao Sosa
  12. Mosters Ball feat Juan Gambino
  13. Presence Of Greatness
  14. Thats Love
  15. Sold My Soul
  16. Move With A Mic
  17. Still Raw
  18. The Niche

I had honestly never heard of Anawim until I picked up The Arrival in a pawn shop on Sprague in the late 2000’s. I’m glad I found it for two reasons, first it turned me on to his music and second, it’s probably impossible to find nowadays. I know I’ve never seen it since. So lucky me! FYI, Anawim is a Hebrew word from the Old Testament which describes the “poor ones” who remained faithful to God in times of difficulty. These humble people became known as the anawim or the “faithful remnant.” Fun facts aside, his second and third release are with another well-known Spokane hip hop artist, On One (of Kane Related). I’m not certain if Anawim had anymore releases, if you know, leave a comment. Also, I’m not sure if I have a different version of Iron Sharpens Iron, but YouTube has a different cover and different track order, so maybe there’s an alternate cover version out there? If anyone can confirm this, leave a comment. As far as listening to Anawim, you can find him on all major music streaming platforms!