Big Boi- You ain't no Dj featuring Yelawolf

Big Boi ft Yelawolf - You Aint No Dj | Audio | Rap Basement

The bass is heavy. There is more percussion than anyone can ask for. Big Boi and Yelawolf sound good riding the beat.

This is song is a very good down south collabo. Click link above to listen.

If you though Drake's album sale numbers were impressive , wait til you see what Eminem did last week.

The past seven days has been an impressive and urgently needed week for hip hop album sales. Drake's Thank Me Later is onto its second week on the shelves but that album had to settle for second place because of Eminem's monumental first week sales.

In just seven days, Eminem's Recovery album has already sold

Filling in for Ed Reed.

According to a radio interview Ed Reed did a few weeks ago, he is not confident he will be ready for the season opener vs. the Jets. You do not need me to tell you that any defense without Ed Reed has a huge whole to fill. Whom will the Ravens select to fill that whole?  Will that player metaphorically be more of cork or a cheap piece of Styrofoam?

This offseason Ed Reed underwent surgery to repair his hip, the same hip that kept him out of four games this past season. The rehab for this surgery will take longer than many expected leading to Ed Reed verbalized his uncertainty about the timing of his return on Sirius Radio. While many Ravens fans myself included are biting our nails about the huge vulnerability the defense just acquired, safeties Ken Hamlin, Tom Zbikowski and Haruki Nakamura are looking at this as a huge career opportunity for them.

Big Boi makes Sir Lucious Left Foot available for free stream on his myspace page

That's right, Big Boi just made his long anticipated first solo album available for full listening on his myspace page just one week before it is released in stores. I strongly suggest that you take advantage of this opportunity. After hearing some of the songs like General Patton and Shutterbugg, I am very excited to add this one to my music collection.
Stop by Big Boi's Myspace and be amongst the first to hear this album in full.

DJ Khaled- All I do is win featuring Various Artists

DJ Khaled gathers together a collective of rappers and Diddy to let people know that he's on the winning team. I was not shocked to see Diddy, Rick Ross and Nicki Minaj in the video (seeing as Diddy is the manager of the two artists). It is also good to see Busta Rhymes spitting rapid fire like he did in his younger days. If you ever wondered if the charismatic DJ Khaled could pull off rapping, watch and get your answer.

Jeezy- Lose My Mind featuring Drake

Young Jeezy f. Drake - Lose My Mind Rmx | New Hip Hop Music & All The New Rap Songs 2010

This is the remix that many of us heard for the first time on the BET awards last night. Listen to the studio version here.

BET Awards: Through my tv screen

The annual BET Awards show is often the most extravagant ceremony for black entertainment. So much so that fans and celebrities alike come to expect the biggest performers in urban music to impress them with their on-stage presence. This year, more than most in the past, the award show met expectations.

Dipset returns and expects a salute.

The Diplomats- Salute | XXLmag.com

After years of rumored disagreements and inequitable money distribution, the main figures of The Diplomats, Cam'ron, Juelz Santana and Jim Jones, have put together a song for the first time in 2006.

"Salute" has a synth heavy beat that's different from anything you have heard all three of these rappers on together. The high pitch sample is nowhere to be found but fans must not get discouraged, all three rappers hold there own. The best part about this track is not just actual return of one of the strongest rap movements of the 00' decade but the individuality formed from their time of seperation is noticable. None of them are trying to sound like they did in 03' when Diplomatic Immunity first hit shelves or sound like each other, they are continuing to utilize their own sound.

This news could shake the rap world if they continue to plot their return to the forefront. Click link above to listen to Salute.

Who is the next running back up?

As we all know the Ravens have a tremendous running game and running backs Ray Rice and Willis Mcgahee are the two very talented players most responsible for the success. Leron McClain is extremely capable of toating the rock and getting the tough yards but the team wants to keep him at the fullback position. Besides these three pro bowl players, who is the next man up at the running back position?

The Roots and John Legend- Hard Times (In studio performance)

John Legend and The Roots perform their own rendition of "Hard Times", originally done by Baby Huey and the Babysitters. Legend puts his own signature sound to it and even Black Thought jumps in for a few bars. Watch here

Walt Harris agrees to contract with Ravens

13 year veteran Walt Harris has agreed in principle to a one year contract with the Ravens defense. This comes weeks after he had a two-day tryout with the team and was rumored to have turned down the organization's first contract offer.

This is very good news because Harris can solidify one of the few weaknesses on the team, the cornerback position. Cornerbacks Lardarius Webb and Fabian Washington are both recovering from season ending injuries and will need to time to get back to speed so a corner with experience is a great commodity for this place and time. Harris has started games in this league so stepping up for a few games is not uncharted territory for him. The only problem is Harris himself is coming off a season ending knee injury but seemed to have performed well in his tryouts.

The ideal situation would be for him to come in and play nickel back, a position more important than ever before because of the growing popularity of the three receiver set. Keep in mind that the Ravens signed cornerback Travis Fisher a month ago. This signing probably means Fisher won't make the final cut unless he is capable of making plays on special teams and/or plays well at the corner position during the preseason.

For more info about the transaction and Walt Harris' career accomplishments, visit http://blogs.baltimoreravens.com/2010/06/24/ravens-agree-to-terms-with-harris/

Marc Bulger signs one year deal with the Ravens

In a surprising front office move no fan saw coming, the Baltimore Ravens signed veteran quarterback Marc Bulger to a one year deal.

Bulger will most likely play the role of backup to Joe Flacco and give young quarterbacks Troy Smith and John Beck some serious competition. This signing likely means that one of the aforementioned young quarterbacks will not reach the final 53 man roster come the start of regular season.

Bulger will also serve as a teaching method of sorts for quarterback coach Jim Zorn. Bulger may not have had the top tier statistics in his past few season as a starter but he is talented and knowledgeable of how to succeed at the position. Hopefully Flacco can pick up a few helpful pointers from the savvy veteran. Fans better hope Bulger remains a sideline tutor for Flacco and does not become his replacement in the time of injury. Bulger was thoroughly battle tested and injury ridden during his time in St. Louis so he is in no way an "upgraded version" of Flacco.

Here are a few of Marc Bulger's career stats in case you are unaware of who he is:

• Bulger entered the league in 2001 and has started all but one of the 96 games he has played in.
• He has accumulated a total of 122 touchdowns and 93 interceptions.
• Has not had more touchdowns than interceptions since 2006 when he started all sixteen games, posted 24 touchdowns and 8 interceptions.

J.Cole- Who Dat (High Quality Official Video)

J. Cole - Who Dat (Directed by BBGUN) from bbgun on Vimeo.


J.Cole is ready to show the world that he's got that "flame". In the video Cole is walking through his town, Fayetteville, N.C, while the set around him sets ablaze and Fayetteville State University (FSU) plays in the background. This video makes me so excited about J.Cole's potential to take the reins of hip hop and lead the way. Watch

Game's career riding through tough times

Rapper Game must have fallen asleep at the wheel because his career he has been going through rough times. First an online rumor claims he died, now he and labels Interscope, Aftermath, Universal Music Group and Dr.Dre's ARY music group are facing a lawsuit. An entertainment company named Desperado Entertainment filed a lawsuit claiming they are partially responsible for the rise of Game's career but have not received any royalties.

This news is only slightly relevant because it is believed that this courtroom battle may delay the release of Game's new album "The R.E.D".  Even though his fans will once again be disappointed there may be a sliver lining.

It's pretty safe to say almost no one is really looking forward to the rapper's next project. The singles he is promoting are not getting attention, something Game has never experienced in this career. He was featured in Complex magazine not for the positive momentum he's building for his upcoming album but for what the magazine called "one of hip hop's 50 biggest fails". He was 50th on the list for his appearance on dating talk show Change of Heart. Game better have the summer of his life if he wants his career to stay on the upright. He is facing significant adversity in his career right now. Adversity that cannot give him the promotion he needs like a beef with G-Unit or a switch from Aftermath to Jeffen Records.

Cam'ron, Vado and Busta Rhymes- Rubberband Stack

Camron ft Vado, Busta Rhymes - Rubberband Stacks | Audio | Rap Basement

Cam'ron, Vado and Busta Rhymes collaborate to make a trunk rattler for the money makers. The rappers spit over a bass driven beat and the chorus sounds vocals on the chorus sound the like the hood version of Alvin and the Chipmunks. I believe this is the first time Busta Rhymes has every worked with Cam'ron and the product seemed to come together nicely. Click on link above to listen.

Drake's Thank Me Later is a good album but ...

I recently acquired Drake's debut album "Thank Me Later" expecting a top heavy album with high profile features and popular singles to be stacked in the beginning of the playlist but that pre-notion was proven incorrect. The first four tracks are all Drake's attempts at a slower R&B sound. This is where I have heard the most criticism of the album.

Many were okay with the Alicia Keys assisted intro track "Fireworks" but afterward fans wanted to hear Drake shoot out of the gates with tracks like "Over" and "Miss Me". Instead he starts off slow with "Karaoke" and "Resistance". It isn't until track number four that hit single "Over" appears and awakens the energy that listeners want to hear from the 23 year old rapper/singer. Otherwise the album is designed just as I expected and the overall quality of the record is not discouraged by the track arrangement.

About half of the album is singing, one fourth is his rap outlet and the other fourth are the sounds of popular artists he enlisted to appear on his debut project. This album is something new for the commercial market. Drake comes off as neither a party animal nor a gangster; he is a young man wrestling with the emotions he encounters in everyday life.

Verbal Phantom. So dope. Is there a need to address his race?

Verbal Phantom is another dope rapper on the underground with talent and a unique sense and style. He is a relatively unknown New Jersey rapper gathering critical acclaim for his "15 Mics", a song where he proceeds to do a lyrical excercise by comparing himself to 15 different men with the name 'Mike' over a simple old school beat. Some are beginning to feature him in their Unsigned Hype pieces but many still have no idea who he is.

One you get a glimpse of him you will see how many critics categorize him, by his race. It is truely ashame however because on paper his rhymes outdo a majority of the popular commercial rappers of every race. With that being said watch the video below and decided for yourself how good the man is.

Eminem- Session One featuring Slaughterhouse

 Eminem f. Slaughterhouse - Sessoni One [Prod. Just Blaze] | New Hip Hop Music & All The New Rap Songs 2010

'Session One' is one of the bonus tracks found on the deluxe version of Eminem's anticipated "Recovery" album. Just Blaze takes care of the beat and 3/4 of the Slaughterhouse crew (no Joe Budden) approach the track with the aggression that made their debut album worth listening to. The track is exactly what a fan would expect out of a track featuring lyricist of this caliber, more punchlines less singing.

The Roots- Dear God 2.0 (Official Video)

 The Roots crew makes the listener slow down and ask question about why the conditions of the world exist today. Black Thought plays an introspective cab driver who works the night reflecting on life. The video is pretty cinematic but does not stray from the meaning of the song. Well done once again by the Roots crew (can they do wrong?)

Report: Steve Smith broke his arm playing flag football

Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith broke his arm playing flag football at his football camp. He underwent surgery over the weekend.

The Panthers better hope and pray Smith makes a fast recovery, otherwise young quarterbacks Matt Moore and Jimmy Clausen will be without arguably the best offensive player on that team. I will keep an eye on this situation. NFL.com is reporting that he will miss the start of training camp because of the injury he sustained.

Cory Redding ready to apply the pressure.

Experienced veteran defensive tackle Cory Redding is happy with his situation in Baltimore and motivated to start this season with a fresh body.

It has been 3 years since he has been healthy during an offseason. Year after year he suffered from various injuries and as a result saw his production on the field decrease. In 2006, Redding had his best year, gathering a total of 8.0 sacks, 47 tackles and 2 forced fumbles (all career highs) but ever since then he has failed to match or best those achievements.

Game- Hustlin (Champion's Anthem)

Game- Hustlin (Champion's Anthem)

Game once again comes hard with the aggression and name dropping that he has become famous for. This time he put together a track for the champions to relate to. Game has said this is a response to the Lakers' recent victory over the Boston Celtics in the NBA Finals. Follow the link and listen

N.E.R.D- Hot n Fun. (Official Video)

The always eclectic N.E.R.D teams up with Nelly Furtado to give the world a bizarre music video for their lighthearted summer jam "Hot n Fun". This song will be featured on their fourth studio album, Nothing.

Kid Cudi- REVOFEV

KiD CuDi - REVOFEV | Audio | Rap Basement

Kid Cudi is working toward releasing his second album "Man On The Moon II: The Legend Of Mr. Rager" and has his debut single for the project working its way around the internet. REVOFEV is not as upbeat as Day n Nite (hard to believe right?) but it moves to the signature Cudi tempo. He puts the ganja down to prep people for the revolution. I hope your ready because Cudi is.

Ravens sign veteran free safety Ken Hamlin

After impressing the coaching staff during a tryout with a couple of other veteran defensive backs, Ken Hamlin will be signed to the Ravens roster. Hamlin has spent the majority of his career starting at the free safety position (96 or his 98 games) for various teams such as: the Seattle Seahawks and the Dallas Cowboys.

He is known for his hard hitting style but has had a little trouble with missing games due to injury. His best statistical year was in 2007. Then he started all 16 games of the regular season with the Cowboys, posted 62 tackles, five interceptions and 15 pass deflections.

The word is Hamlin is being brought in as a contigency plan of sorts in case Ed Reed continues to struggle with injuries during the season not as a starter. He is also capable of contributing to special teams. This signing is commendable; the Ravens do have safety Haruki Nakamura on the roster to come behind Reed in case he gets injured but he himself is recovering from a season ending broken ankle and other leg injuries. It is always good to have an able bodied veteran ready-to-go as an insurance policy.

Eminem- On Fire

"Better get lower than Flo Rida in a low rider with no tires"

                                                                            -Eminem
Eminem- On Fire | Hip Hop DX

This is one of the mean quotables you will find in this song off of Recovery, Eminem's sixth studio album being released next Tuesday. No features on this one just a simple hip hop beat and an aggressive Eminem doing what he does best. Follow the link above.

Clayton or Stallworth? That's a good receiver competition

OR 

I am slightly disturbed by how easily people assume that Donte Stallworth will surpass Mark Clayton on the wide receiver depth chart. I know there is a level of disappointment amongst the fans when it comes to Clayton but remember he has several advantages Stallworth cannot claim.

Stallworth did not play in the NFL last year let alone the Cam Cameron offense, two things Clayton can say he did. This means that Stallworth is responsible for reacclimating himself to the physicality and mental strain of the NFL game. He has not played in a game since the 2008 season when he posted a sub par 17 catches, 170 receiving yards and an average of 10 yards per reception last year (poor statistics considering his speed and production in previous years in the league). Most people forget he is learning a new offense this offseason. Despite his impressive level of intelligence, this feat is something that takes time and does not happen overnight.

Clayton may not have been the stud starter the Raven fans were hoping he would develop into when he was drafted in the first round of the 2005 draft however his level of production has shown us that he possesses considerable talent. Clayton may be a good slot receiver option, the wide receiver position some coaches believe he best fits.

Remember speed isn't everything. A slot receiver must be able to find the soft spots in zone coverage and create seperation from defenders whether that be a linebacker, safety or cornerback. Until Stallworth can prove he can still do these things consistently, Clayton is the Ravens best bet on the roster for a third receiver.

ShamWow infocomercial icon Vince Shlomi does promotion for Eminem's recovery.

The man known as the "ShamWow guy" has decided to do a parody of sorts of his own trademark promotions for Eminem's "Recovery" album. The video is circulating around the web as "EmWOW" and let me say it is ridiculously silly. Don't hesitate to watch it's only 30 seconds.

Shaun Boothe- Let Me Go

Shaun Boothe - Let Me Go | New Hip Hop Music & All The New Rap Songs 2010

Shaun Boothe gives the listeners another conscious song we can all enjoy. A nice smooth laid back beat along with the calm flow of Boothe makes for a track worth listening to multiple times.

Nas- The World (Produced by Kanye West)

This song has been playing repeatedly in my ear for the past few days. Nas does a great job of telling a story here. Figured I'd share it with you.

This not the real music video recorded for the song just a view Nas visuals.

Ravens' offensive line set to improve

Joe Flacco will be stepping on the field with a lot of new receiving talent. However in order for him to have time to throw the ball the outside of the offensive line must be solid. As of right now the depth at the tackle position seems to a positive for this offense.

Right now there are five tackles in Baltimore certainly talented enough to make the roster: Michael Oher, Jared Gaither, Marshal Yanda, Oniel Cousins and this year's sixth round pick Ramone Harewood. I mention talent because all of these players are not guarenteed a spot amongst the 53 because the Ravens may only carry four tackles on the roster.

It is presumed that Gaither and Oher will lock down the edges this season. There seems to be some unspoken conflict between Gaither and the Ravens organization about his contract. At one point, there were rumors about the Ravens shopping Gaither around. That talk has died down however things have changed for him. In the OTA's Oher was practicing at the left tackle spot, the position that belonged to Gaither last season before he got hurt. Oher started all sixteen regular season games last year as a rookie, two of those starts were at the left tackle position. The small chance that Gaither doesn't start on the offensive line comes from the possibility of Gaither getting moved because of his dissatisfaction with his contract or poor work ethic, something Gaither has occasionally been criticized for.

One player the Ravens organization is high on is Oniel Cousins. The 6-4 specimen has had several opporunities to start during his three year NFL career. Believe me, he did not impress. He struggled to pass block at times, a crucial skill a tackle must possess. This year he started in weeks 14 through 16. During this stint, the Ravens played the dismal Detroit Lions caught in the process of rebuilding and the dissapointing Chicago Bears, a team many suspected to ride into the playoffs on the shoulders of Jay Cutler. Both teams possessed pass rushes that were mediocre at best. He did not meet the real challenge until he started in the week 16 20-23 loss to the Steelers. Left Outside Linebacker LaMarr Woodley was often matched up against Cousins and finished the day with a noteworthy ten tackles and two sacks.

The Ravens most intriguing selection in the 2010 draft was  Ramone Harewood, tackle out of Morehouse. Harewood has plenty of physical ability but lacks the experience and knowledge of the technical side of playing offensive tackle. He is a project that if properly groomed could become a wonderful asset to an offense with a young quarterback and running back.

I am looking for the Ravens offense to really achieve great things this year but it is because this young offensive line is due to improve. Building an offense is like building a house from the ground up. A stirdy, durable house is always built on solid ground; that's what the offensive line needs to be, solid ground. If the tackles can block efficiently without the excessive assistance of blocking tight ends, this offense will flourish.

Dj Self and Roscoe Dash Show Out Remix featuring Cam'ron and Jim Jones

DJ Self ft Jim Jones, Camron, Roscoe Dash - Show Out (Up North Remix) | Audio | Rap Basement

I considered myself a very big Dipset fan when the crew was functioning in their prime. That is why I was so disappointed when I heard that three of the groups frontmen Cam'ron, Jim Jones and Juelz Santana were having difficulties. There was a big disagreement between the three about the distribution of money amongst them. It never really got resolved and the three agreed to disagree and continue on their own separate roads.

Well today we may be witnessing the early signs of a legitimate Dipset comeback. These two men have not collaborated together on a song in about 4 years. Unfortunately their mini-reunion had to occur over a disgraceful song like Roscoe Dash's "Show Out". That's ok cause it's just the beginning of something historic, hopefully.

T.I reveals ferocious new album cover

The king of the Jungle and the king of the South are side by side on the album cover for T.I's soon to be released album called "T.I Uncaged". T.I's seventh studio album is set to hit stores August 17 right now but this date is subject to change.

Dead Prez - Far From Ova | New Hip Hop Music & All The New Rap Songs 2010

Dead Prez - Far From Ova New Hip Hop Music & All The New Rap Songs 2010

This is the best remake of Drake's Over on the internet right now. Both Stic.man and M-1 go in hard and give new fans a reason to hit Youtube and look up there older stuff. Drake's best verse on that song was the second when he opens with lines reminiscent of Dead Prez's classic "Hip Hop" song. I guess everything comes full circle here.

Drug Dealer Ricky Ross is suing rapper for stealing his name.

About time! I saw this coming from several miles away. There is no way rapper Rick Ross (or so he calls himself) can say his hip hop character is not derived from Freeway Ricky Ross. The original Ross had been watching from jail as a rapper, formerly a correctional officer, used an "identical" name and persona to become a rap star. Ricky was sentenced to life in prison but had his sentence reduced and was released in 2009.

To make one thing clear, former drug dealer Ricky Ross is not suing rapper Rick Ross for money, he is going after name infringement. We will be hearing more about this. Watch this video to hear the true Ricky Ross' thoughts.

The Roots- The Fire featuring John Legend

The Roots ft John Legend - The Fire | Audio | Rap Basement

One of the promo singles for the The Roots' upcoming album "How I Got Over". The group connects with singer John Legend to create this slow paced brilliant song. Once again The Roots abandon the typical hip hop sound of today in order to create something with a superior sound. Black Thought  has two versus and delivers on both. If you want to hear a very good hip hop track, take a few minutes and listen to this.

Looking Back: Nas- Nas is Like (Official Video)

Do you remember this one? '99 seems like an eternity ago. Hip hop was changing from the gritty 90's sound to the sounds of P.Diddy and the Ruff Ryders. Nas has joined the P.Diddy alliance as well when the two collaborated for "Hate Me Now" but there was another song on the "I Am" album that shined particularly bright. "Nas is Like" was produced by DJ Premier and it showed the hip hop world that even though Nas was trying a more pop approach, he could still rip the mic. Watch this "throwback" jam.

What more must he do?

After generating major buzz with his hit single "Nothin on you", B.o.B decided to use the momentum and release his album a week earlier than planned. "B.o.B presents: The Adventures of Bobby Ray" went on to debut at number 1 on the Billboard 200 albums chart after 84,000 copies flew off the shelf in the first week.

As if hearing he and Bruno Mars' voice on the radio every ten minutes wasn't enough he significantly increased his radio play when he made "Airplanes" featuring Hayley Williams of Paramore his second single. As of today "Nothin on You" and "Airplanes" have peaked at number one and number two on the Hot 100 chart respectively.

Unfortunately after a pretty fast start by today's standards, B.o.B's album sales have stalled big time. After seven weeks on the charts his album has only sold 210,000 copies. This is appalling considering the amount of popular well-composed music he put together in that album. All of the features on the album were strategically placed and their talents match the tone of the song. Most would say that Eminem and B.o.B are polar opposites and would not be able to come together for a song worth listening let alone a collaboration such as "Airplanes Pt. II" but they pulled it off as they imagined what their lives would be like if they did not work hard to achieve their dream.

Hopefully B.o.B's flame does not fizzle out before he climbs over that 500,000 mark. It would be a crime if that man could not retire with a gold plaque of any kind in his living room.

*"Bet I bust" featuring T.I and Playboy Tre is somewhat like a third single for the album. A video has been shot and released for television and internet. It debuted and peaked on the Hot 100 chart at number 72. Keep an eye this song. It has the down south sound that could easily win over radio listeners in the near future.

Rhymefest- Talk my sh*t (Official Video)

Rhymefest spits the aggressive truth over a funky go-go influenced beat. "Talk my Sh*t" is a song far from radio friendly and has the video to match that mood. Feel free to watch and nod your head.

Hey, what ever happened to...?

Joell Ortiz's second album "Free Agent". The supposed debut single off of the album was "Cawl Me". He shot a video for it and the song got mediocre radio play in the Tri-City area. Today however we are not hearing anything about the details of that albums release.

Joell Ortiz's first album "The Brick: Bodega Chronicles" was highly overlooked and was one of the best debut albums of 2007. The most recent thing he has put out for purchase in stores was the collaborative album of he Royce da 5'9, Joe Budden and Crooked I. Together these men were referred to as Slaughterhouse and there lyrical studio album is named such. Recently the four men signed as a group to Eminem's Shady Records

Ortiz is one of the best underground rappers around right now but it is a disappointment to see he is still holding down the underground. Every freestyle I hear from him is amazing and his lyrical talent takes a back seat to no one (See Nissan Honda Chevy). I was anticipating this album this year. From the looks of things, I may be forced to wait another year or so.

Here is a prime example how talented Ortiz is.

Statik Selektah- So Far, So Gone featuring Wale, Bun B. and Colin Munroe (Official Video)

Thought I'd post this video for "So Close, So Far" off one of Statik Selektah's 2010 album releases called "100 Proof: The Hangover". This track features Houston legend Bun B. and upcoming D.C representer Wale. Both rappers deliver well on the Selektah beat. Colin Monroe, Canadian singer/songwriter, sings a smooth chorus. Watch the visual here.

Eminem- No Love featuring Lil Wayne

Eminem-No Love

Lil Wayne returns the favor Eminem did for him on his "Rebirth" album by adding a dope verse to this Just Blaze produced song off Eminem's upcoming album "Recovery". Both rappers went equally hard. I am starting to think that Eminem is one of the few rappers that can make Wayne step his game up on a song. Contrary to the song's title, this song gets mad love.

Interesting fact- the songs leaked on the internet have not all been Dr. Dre or Eminem productions. It sounds like Eminem's upcoming album will be more diversed on the production end which exciting for a fan like myself.

Rhymefest- Say Wassup featuring Phonte

This is a creative 3-D music video by Rhymefest and Phonte. "Say Wassup" will be appearing on Rhymefest' new album coming out tomorrow. Check out this video.

Big Boi- General Patton

Big Boi - General Patton | New Hip Hop Music & All The New Rap Songs 2010

Big Boi goes in on this bass heavy horn driven masterpiece. "General Patton" is another song set to be on Big Boi's first solo project called "Sir Luscious Left Foot". Every single song leaked from this album onto the internet has been incredible. Not a weak one in the bunch. I have to go get this album when it hits the stores. It could very well be the best album of this year (sorry Drake).

Kanye West Has His Car Crash Into A Home | Kanye West | Rap Basement

Kanye West Has His Car Crash Into A Home | Kanye West | Rap Basement

Rapbasement.com is reporting that a car registered under Kanye West's name crashed into a home over the weekend. It is not reported whether or not West was actually involved in the crash or if he is hurt. I can almost guarantee more information will be released in time. Read article for more.

Where does Clayton belong?

Mark Clayton was the 22nd overall pick in the 2005 draft. Since day one, he has been the starter opposite veteran Derrick Mason but has never lived up to the organizations expectations. Now that the team made it a priority to acquire more talent at the receiver position, where does Clayton fit in the big picture?

In his five year NFL career, Clayton has been consistently inconsistent. He accumulated 44 catches and 471 yards during his rookie season then set career highs in receptions and receiving yards with 67 receptions and 939 receiving yards in his sophomore season. After that 2006 season, everyone expected him only to get better but his play took a turn for the worst. In his 2007 season he had to play with three different quarterbacks in the same season.

In the early part of the 2007 season, starter Steve Mcnair got injured and was replaced with underachieving first round pick Kyle Boller. A few weeks later Boller got injured and was replaced with rookie Troy Smith who withstood the test of time and lasted the final three games of that season. Each one of those quarterbacks is very different and the wide receiver core had to adapt every time there was a change at the position. Clayton finished that season with 48 receptions and 531 receiving yards.

In the first round of the 2008 draft, the Ravens selected quarterback Joe Flacco. He won the starting job and played every game of the season. This quarterback stability contributed to a small improvement of production on Clayton's part but we did not see the 1000 yard season we expected of him. He finished the season with 41 yards, 695 receiving yards and a passing touchdown.

Rhymefest's "El Che" album finally being released on Tuesday

Rhymefest is finally ready to drop his overdue sophomore album "El Che" on Tuesday. He has continuously fed his hungry fans with solid mixtapes since the release of his debut album "Blue Collar" four years ago.

"El Che" is flaunting features from rapper duo Little Brother, underground mainstay Saigon and Adad. The production is handled by a variety of respectable producers like Kanye West, Just Blaze and more. Hopefully Rhymefest compiled the best songs he recorded over the past year or two onto this album. The mixtapes he put out were outstanding and kept me focused on what he was doing while he wrestled with his record label to put out his sophomore effort. Because I know how creative of a writer Rhymefest can be, I expect him to impress the real hip hop fans on this go round.

Rhymefest recorded a verse and shot a video for" Give it to Me", a Scram Jones production, featuring Saigon and Adad over a year ago. This is not the same verse he uses on the album but it is still legit. Check out the video and get a peak at what to expect on the album.

Eminem- Not Afraid (Official Video)

Eminem becomes the superhero that those who succumb to fear want to emulate in the new video for his hit single "Not Afraid" There are a lot of symbolic and jaw dropping moments to see. Watch and experience for yourself. Classic.

Starting Linebackers for the Ravens

Every defense needs a good set of linebackers but the 3-4 defensive system cannot thrive without them. In a good 3-4 defense there are usually four linebackers, two inside and two outside, that have the ability to shoot gaps, rush the passer and play effectively in space (cover tight ends, running backs and wide receivers). Here in Baltimore, the Ravens seem to have very solid depth at the defensive line position. Is the linebacker position as deep as their larger defensive counterparts?

Eminem- Won't Back Down featuring Pink

Eminem ft Pink - Wont Back Down | Audio | Rap Basement

Eminem has collaborated with singer Pink for a pop sound that will surely be all over radio this summer. Eminem does not join forces with artists often so this is a pleasant anomaly. Check out "Won't Back Down"

T.I- Yeah Ya Know (Takers) (Official Video)

T.I has made a music video for one of his songs a promo for his movie "Takers" that will be coming out in August. Who knew he would have the balls to execute such a risky and tactical business move? The action seems to be exciting and fluid through out the movie and the song matches that intensity. Combining the two was a great decision. Watch here.

Drake- Fancy featuring T.I & Swizz Beatz

Here is another leak from Drake's upcoming album. The production of this smooth "ladies night out" joint is superb and the chorus is taken care of by Swizz Beatz who adds some bounce to the chorus. T.I sticks to the theme of the song and adds a good verse to the song.

It amazes me how many different ways Drake can talk to women through his music. This has the getting ready for the club sound we do not hear from Drake too often. Good stuff.

Not an "off"season for the Ravens front office.

Thanks to a lack of agreement between the Players Association and the NFL we are amidst an uncapped season. One of the stipulations to the uncapped year is the "Final 8", a rule that limits the free agent signing freedom of the surviving eight teams of last year's playoffs. For the Ravens who lost in the divisional round of the playoffs, this means they can only sign one unrestricted free agent who's first year salary is more than $5.5 million.

This rule only stands until July 24 when the Dallas Cowboys opens up their training camp. After this point, the Ravens can sign whomever they like.

So far this offseason the final 8 rule has not seriously crippled the Ravens' offseason activity. The Ravens have signed four non-rookie free agents: wide receiver Dante Stallworth, defensive lineman Cory Redding , defensive back Travis Fisher and kicker Shayne Graham (officially signed today) this offseason. Anquan Boldin does not fall under this stipulation because he was acquired via trade not via free agency.

These four free agency players are all very good acquisitions in one way or another. Unless, God forbid, a key contributor gets hurt, I do not think we will see any high profile players signed to the roster but what do you think?

What players do you think the Ravens should look at? Is there anyone worth signing now? Who will be left once that July 24 date arrives?

Drake- Up all night featuring Nicki Minaj

Drake f. Nicki Minaj - Up All Night | New Hip Hop Music & All The New Rap Songs 2010

"Up All Night" is the latest leak from the, at one point, anticipated "Thank Me Later" album. The Boi-1da produced beat is pretty hot and both Young Money artists take advantage of this. Drake puts together another chorus the fans are going to have on repeat in their ipods. Nicki does here usual monotonous gig. However it is bearable and does not take away from the quality of the track.

I am still going to be persistent in buying this album even though I am no longer curious or anxious about what will be on it because I have already heard the whole album! Thanks alot internet for taking the fun out of everything.

Janelle Monae- Tightrope remix featuring B.o.B and Lupe Fiasco

New beat. New artists. Same good chorus. Janelle Monae rapping. This is a good remix.

The beat is more current and basic letting rappers B.o.B and Lupe Fiasco flow freely on the remix to this marvelous song

Tha Dream- Make-Up Bag (Official Video)

Tha Dream is trying something a little different this time. Instead of walking around a white backdrop singing his song like he did in "Rockin That Thang" and "Shawty in da ****", he experiments with the idea of a themed music video. Here Dream is dressed up looking grown in his suit and hat trying to convince everybody that the best way to appease your wifey's anger is to buy her an expensive bag.

T.I makes a very short apperance in this video. Watch and see for yourself.

The Roots- Doin it Again featuring John Legend

Great remake of John Legend's "Again" set to be released on The Roots upcoming "How I got over" album. Black Thought spat the same verse in a cypher last year during the BET Hip Hop Awards featuring he, Mos Def and Eminem but it sounds even better on this instrumental.

Kicker soon to join the Ravens

Former Bengals kicker Shayne Graham will be signed to the Ravens soon.

Graham's career has spanned over ten years and four teams. He started his journeyman career in 2001 with the Buffalo Bills where he only played in six games and hit s out of his eight field goal attempts. Eight years later during the 2009 season, he made 82 percent of his kicks (23 out of 28).

Graham is an upgrade from the current kicker on the roster, Billy Cundiff. Cundiff only performed moderately well last season making 70% of his kicks as a Raven. Statistically this competition favors Graham. His experience and superior kicking numbers instantly make him more dependable. Unless Cundiff has a miraculous makeover and makes almost all of his field goal attempt in training camp, he will be watching the Ravens from his living room in the fall.

Is All City Chess Club going to stick around?

The All City Chess Club is a collective of diverse/talented lyricists formed by Lupe Fiasco. It includes The Cool Kids, Charles Hamilton B.o.B, Diggy Simmons, Wale, Blu and Asher Roth. The first song all of these artists have done together is the remix to Lupe Fiasco's single Im Beamin'.
Many are salivating at the potential impact this "supergroup" can have on the hip hop game. The only uncertainty is whether or not these mc's are actually banning together to make more than one song. If we refer to the trends of history, we see that large groups of talented rappers have a hard time getting and staying together. Recent history in particular presents evidence to discourage any real hope of these rappers producing a lot of music together.
A few years ago the hip hop community was excited to hear rumors of Kanye West, Pharrell and Lupe Fiasco forming a group called Child Rebel Soldiers or CRS. A song called US Placers made its rounds on the internet and even had a music video produced to compliment the song. They also collaborated along with Pusha T for the remix to N.E.R.D's party jam "Everybody Nose". Besides the aforementioned songs these three artists did not make anything else as a trio; they never made an album, mixtape or EP.
"Chess Club" definitely has an undeniable amount of talent and artistic vision but they are young upcoming artists whose schedules may deter them from dedicating time to collaborating together. B.o.B and Wale both finished making performance rounds on all of the popular late night talk shows promoting their latest singles. Every single one of these artists may at one point take part in country or even worldwide tours and if that happens it will overtake this union of rappers on the priority list.
*Most intriguing player on this roster is Diggy Simmons. He is just so young.