thoughtsofdapperj

[thoughtsofdapperj]

Drake vs. Lil Wayne

Man it feels good to write again. Hopefully everyone is starting off their new school year with success, good expectations and a plan to reach all of your goals.

                                          #DrakevsLilWayne

            With this concert being announced in June 12, I've been preparing for August 30th for awhile now. Drake is my favorite rapper in the game today and Lil Wayne is my favorite rapper EVER. I Know someone is reading this like really Weezy is your favorite but to have grown up with someone through music since 98-99 and musically impact me as I grew older (Drought 3 changed my life), makes him my favorite. Now I'm not naive to his lackluster years in 2012-2013 but I will saw #CarterVSeason has been reminiscent of old Wayne so there is hope. In early August, the lineup for the show got even better as PARTYNEXTDOOR was added to the bill. You guys know I love me some Party so I was thrilled for the fact that I can see all three of them for one night. So let's get started!!

            I linked up with my girl Trevyy (Follow @trevyy12) and her people and we made our way to Charlotte. We got there around 6 and the PNC Music Pavilion was already filling up. First thing I had to do is treat myself to a souvenir #DrakeVsLilWayne t-shirt

. Afterwards, we positioned ourselves on the lawn, where the tour DJ was playing music to keep the crowd entertained such as "Teach me how to dougie" and the song of the summer "Hot Ni**a". You already know I had to hit the shmoney dance one time. vine.co/v/MQhPWPPMdYm 

            Around 7:45, the concert began with PARTYNEXTDOOR

and his live performamce has greatly improved since Would you like a tour. PARTY came through and did the hits from "Persian Rugs", "Wus Good/Curious" and "SLS". Unfortunately he didn't my favorite off PARTYNEXTDOOR TWO which is "Sex on the Beach" but if PARTY does a solo tour in the near future, I can see that happen. To see a link of PARTY's performance at the show, go to the

http://wordonroad.net/videos/partynextdoor-performs-muse-thirsty-options-sls-charlotte-nc-video/ .

            Around 8:40, the concert was started with the classic Capcom theme and as the votes were tallied, Lil Wayne was chosen to open the show. The whole crowd was chanting WEEZY WEEZY and he came out with "Blunt Blowin" and "We be Steady Mobbin". Afterwards, he left and the crowd went into a frenzy as the OVO Hearthrob came out to "Draft Day". Fans were hysterical at the sight of Drake and then he did "We Made it" and "The Language". So Drake started with hits, and I was wondering how Wayne will respond.

           Man did Wayne respond, he started off by saying "People call me Lil Wayne, Tunechi, my kids call me dad but everyone calls me "Mr. Carter". Man when that beat drop, I lost my mind, that is still my favorite song off Tha Carter III. He followed up with doing mixtape Weezy classics by performing some No Ceilings material such as "Swag Surfin" and "Wasted". To me he was winning the concert just for doing No Ceilings. Had he did Da Drought 3, I may have shade a tear of joy. He. Drake flipped the script by doing songs  like "Headlines", "Over" and Crew Love".  Wayne continued by doing more of his catalog such as "Go DJ", "Pop Bottles", and he even did "Leather So Soft". He closed his set by doing his his verse of "I'm Goin In" and stopped before Drake could do his verse. Drake felt some type of way and said why you cut off my verse and started to mimic his verse and said get that out of here.

            Drake rebuttal by playing "Pop That" "All Me" and "Versace". He slowed down the tempo by performing one of the biggest singles off Thank Me Later with "Find Your Love", had me reminiscing on the summer of 2010. He later got on the pole and flew across the crowd while singing Marvin's Room. He ended his set by singing "Hold On We're Going Home" and at the end, Wayne was singing it too and Wayne my man but he should leave the singing to Drake.

            Wayne continued his singing by doing "How to Love" and going into the smoother side of his catalog with "Mrs. Officer", one of my favorite Wayne Drake collabs "Every Girl" and then when the battle started. The battle started with hooks with Wayne calling himself the "King of Hooks" and doing one of Fat Joe's greatest hits "Make it Rain". Drake followed with "No New Friends" and then Wayne came back with "Duffle Bag Boyz". Drake and Wayne continued to go back and forth with hits from "No Lie" to "A Milli" to "Trophies". By this point my voice was so gone from rapping.

            The crowd had to decide who won and I chose Wayne. Don't get me wrong Drake the best in the game today but Wayne my favorite and with Wayne doing more of his classic material then Drake, he edged him out slightly. Lil Wayne ultimately the winner and then they both did the current Carter V single "Believe Me" followed by The Motto" and "HYFR". Before the show ended, they each thanked the fans and to look out for Tha Carter V and Views from the 6.

           Overall, it was one of the greatest performances, I have ever seen in my life. Does it top Watch the Throne, unfortunately no but man was it close. I hope everyone goes and see this tour because it truly is something you may see once in a lifetime. The crowd was live start to finish. Everyone from all walks of life, came together to enjoy what took place and it was worth every penny. It's safe to say I had tons of fun and I will be supporting both albums. I want to thank you for reading this, you are appreciated.

[thoughtsofdapperj]

PARTYNEXTDOOR TWO Review

"Welcome to the Party..."

These words were not just the first words sung on his self-titled debut but they also set the tone to my soundtrack for the summer. In the summer of 2013 with artists from Jay-Z, Kanye, J. Cole, Wale and Mac Miller all dropped albums, what I was listening to most was PND. I still play it which means you know is timeless music. Now since then Party has dropped songs like "Candy" featuring Nipsey Hussle and "Persian Rugs" When news came out about a sequel, I was too hyped! Then it leaked and friends hit me up asking my take on it. Well ladies and gentlemen let's find out.

This album starts out with "The summer's over and we're watchin' the sun finally set". That gave me a vibe that its fall now so Party trying to settle down and participate in Cuffin' Season. Initially I wasn't feeling "East Liberty" but now its one of my favorites. "SLS" starts with a sample of Dru Hill's "Share My World" and it definitely puts you in that 90s R&B vibe. After this banger comes my favorite on the album "Sex on The Beach". Now this song right here is pure greatness. With the sample of Disclosure's Latch, makes me feel like I'm on a beach just living life. 

The first single off the album "Her Way" continues the momentum where Party dedicates this to that someone in his life who gets her way either way. Face it fellas we all have at least one girl in our lives who get her way. "Belong to the City" resembles the PND 1 vibe of a short dope interlude like "Break from Toronto" and "TBH". "Grown Woman" continues as Party addresses that darkskin girl with the lightskin crew who won't think for herself. 

The second half of PND 2 starts with "Fwu" and its straight to the point, "He trying to get at you" simple right. He catering to the fellas because we all have had that one girl we be straight honest with. Of course you know Party had to have Drizzy Drake on the album and "Recognize" is another hit for the duo. Party does his thing and Drake displays why he the best doing it right now.

The following three songs are some of the realest songs period. "Options" begins to play and basically beautiful ladies have options and Party wants to be one of them. Forget all them other dudes and leave with Party. The next song is "Thirsty" which samples Missy Elliott "Ching A Ling" and yes Party gives us the thirsty anthem. Everyone reading this has been thirsty or groupie for someone. "Bout it" comes on and once again my man Party keeps it 100 by singing "Is you bout it". In layman's terms are you with it or nah? But seriously tho, it doesn't get realer than that. The albums closes with Muse which is a song he dropped with Candy and its a smooth song for the ladies and it even samples Ginuwine's "Only When You’re Lonely". 

Overall this album is amazing. The production is A1! Is it better than 1, I don't know. One captured a moment where it was simple and the tape got better as it progressed. This album started out with BANGERS on the second half and then some tracks were just cool like it even out. The 2nd half still had bangers but it didn't progress, Now in a few months, I could totally switch the opinion because Party makes music that may not hit you initially but once it hits, there is no going back.

Go follow him on twitter and IG @partyomo and cop this album on iTunes. This album should prove that Party is here to stay and he is the new wave of R&B.

[thoughtsofdapperj]

Majid Jordan A Place Like This EP

"OVO Sound mane thats everyday."

When Drake said that on 2On/Thotful, he might have been on to something as PARTYNEXTDOOR buzz continues to get bigger and the comical OB OBRIEN is releasing records. Quietly in the cut lies Majid Jordan (a duo consisting of  Majid Al Maskati and Jordan Ullman) who other than appearing on Drake's "Hold On, We're Going Home" have been very dormant. That was until about July 7, where the title track "A Place like this" was released along with a video (http://youtu.be/klgbYfu5MCQ). Its distinct sound and intriguing visual got me intrigued to see will they live up to the hype of being on the OVO Roster. Shall we begin

The EP begins with "Forever" and it puts you into a trance as the lyrics start out with "Can't stop the way you make me feel, something about this feels so real". Those words are self explanatory but the vibe it gives off makes you want to groove and two step. Even with the great groove, Majid Jordan talks about wanting this special someone/relationship to last forever. "All I Do" comes on next goes into detail with that someone that you can't stop thinking about. Trust me, we all have had that special someone we just couldn't stop thinking about. 

The turning point of the five track EP comes with "Her" where Majid Jordan deals with capturing a girl's heart after losing it. This is probably my favorite from the EP because of smooth it is. Its simple yet brilliant. "U" flows through as a continuation of "her" but not necessarily the outcome of Her. He still loves her even though there may be problems at the moment. The EP ends with the title track and its airy but calming. It deals with that special someone as like with all of the EP as Majid gives her the ultimatum.

This EP is flawless start to finish and it gives me simialr vibes of Sampha, Jai Paul and Jhene Aiko EP's as something that can play all day and you not realize it. The vocals are smooth, its something to ride to and relax. Go get this EP follow them on twitter @majidjordan, @majidalmaskati and @jordanullman and stay tuned for more music from them because they have talent. Drake might be on to something with all the talent brewing in the 416.

[thoughtsofdapperj]

Jacquees 19 Review

Since I'be been on an R&B wave this summer, I've been listening to old R&B and trying to discover the future of R&B. I was on vine last Wednesday and someone made a vine of the beautiful Ambportant as their Women Crush and used Jacquees song Future Baby Mama as the song. I liked what I heard in those six seconds and decided to see if his music was up to par. I looked him up on YouTube and found "Future Baby Mama" and the rest of his catalog and I was impressed. From the quality of the videos to the infectious melodies he brings to the table combined with his charisma, I was sold. So I had to go cop his 19 and bless my followers with a review. Here we go.

The intro is Future Baby Mama and its a slick play on words saying that his girlfriend will be his future baby mama and its so catchy. The second song "Bet I" featuring Trinidad James has a smooth snap feel where like the intro states "This one for them girls" and trust me it is. He even references SWV classic "Weak" and one of Aaliyah's biggest hits "At Your Best (You Are Love)". Trinidad spits a decent verse to complete even though comedian Emmanuel Hudson poked fun at one of the bars  

Soldier follows featuring Rich Homie Quan (Rich Homie Baby!!) and as the first of two collaborations on 19, this bangs. Their chemistry together along with that dirty south essence and R&B blend makes it too dope to ignore. The next track which is my favorite entitled Destiny's Child which is dedicated to that special someone while using some Destiny Child's references to keep it organic. I'm telling yall man, you will love this track. The next track "IDGAF" is as blatant as the the title suggests as Jacquees discusses how he is better than the girl's boyfriend. One thing I really like about Jacquees is the type of melodies he references such as the jodeci classic "Ooh Yeah" and even Kirk Franklin Imagine me "Oh Na Na Na Na"

The midway point of the EP turns with "You need Me" which the message is simple you need me in your life. Come Thru follows up and I vibe with. Definitely something to ride to and its a sure fire record that everyone will enjoy. Another one of my favorites "Perfect" and again his titles are simple and the messages are easy for everyone to understand. That's the genius of his artistry.

The last little section of the EP goes with the seductive "Feel it" featuring Lloyd and Rich Homie Quan. This is definitely a favorite from the ladies and fellas add this to your playlist. The slow jams continues with "No Questions" and he does it again so fellas add it to the playlist. The EP ends with a feature from one of his mentors and big homie Chris Brown on "Won't Turn It Down". They both sing and Breezy raps a decent verse as well.

This EP is FIRE from start to finish. From the melodies to the beats to the lyrics, Jacquees has a ton of talent. Don't be surprised if he makes some noise before the year is out or by this time next year. Follow him on twitter and IG @Jacquees and go cop 19 on iTunes. 

[thoughtsofdapperj]

Shanice Monee' S EP review

Got some NEW MUSIC for you brought to you by Shanice Monee'. I swear this summer has been dominated by R&B and she has definitely been rotation for the summer. She goes to my school (North Carolina A&T State University...AGGIEPRIDE) and I saw her perform a couple of times and each time she got the crowd hype with her amazing voice and choreography to match. So as a music lover, I had to check her out and on July 3rd, she dropped her debut body of work entitled the S EP. 

The EP starts with "Love Thing" which has that nostalgic 90s feel of that classic love story but its something that gets your head bobbing. "Randevu" follows next and Shanice gives us a nice little love story and just as it gets good, it ends. Classic case of a dope interlude track. 

Her single "Take it" featuring Lelynd Darkes is the halfway point and it is a true feel good record. That Aaliyah sample brings that flair and the combination of the melody with the lyrics makes it a certified smash. Lelynd comes on the bridge and with his vocals adds that extra umph to make it special. "More Than Friends" continues to capture that essence of R&B as Shanice displays her songwriting as she gets caught up in the classic case of being more than friends. Just when I thought the EP couldn't get better, the final track entitled "Yours" featuring Hasan (be on the lookout for him soon but for now follow him @hasan_music) drops and it feels like you just travel into a jodeci studio session. This slow jam will get some people in trouble because this has a sensual feel like R&B lovers long for in today's music. 

  This EP start to finish is FIRE and she will definitely be the voice for females. Go to https://soundcloud.com/shanice-mone/sets/s-1 or http://www.reverbnation.com/shanicemonee/album/73660-s to hear the EP and follow her @shanicemonee_. R&B is definitely back in full effect ladies and gentlemen so keep an eye out for her.

[thoughtsofdapperj]

Continuing Students:

Hopefully your past year went well and you are fully prepared to raise the bar this coming semester. Whether you are currently in summer school or working/relaxing during this time in between the academic year, it is essential that everything is in order for the next stride...

[thoughtsofdapperj]

Road to Essence: #Essencefest

Road to Essence: #Essencefest

            On May 17, 2014, I was able to get a head start on interning at WHUR

WHUR 96.3 fm. Howard University Radio

by assisting in the Road to Essence event. My fellow intern & good friend Mariya Moseley (@leochild93 on twitter & IG)

Mariya & I in the meet & greet line

deserves all the credit for this story because I had no clue about the event. She told me about it that Friday morning and I figured I had nothing better to do on Saturday so why not. When I saw the flyer, the two artists that had me excited were Raheem DeVaughn and Marsha Ambrosius. I’m fans of both but it’s crazy that 3 weeks ago Mariya and I met Raheem for the hip hop caucus event (see last article for recap) so I was like man we just keep running into him.

                WHUR flyer for the road to essence festival event

            The event was from 12-6 in the Wal-Mart parking lot in Laurel, Maryland. The event was free and I’m telling you, other than Black Friday, I have never seen a more packed Wal-Mart. It took 15 minutes just to find parking. I got there around 1pm and right away I got to work. Mariya and I were at the WHUR Table giving out free raffle tickets for a free makeup bag sponsored by My Black is beautiful. Our table attracted everyone as we must have given out easily over 200 tickets. While we were working, the DJ was spinning the hits from Cupid Shuffle to Cha Cha slide to keep the crowd involved. There were people speaking such as Atlanta Housewife Cynthia Bailey (twitter & IG @Cynthiabailey10) who hosted the fashion show and performances by Wayna (twitter @waynamusic). Although the crowd was hype for them, when Raheem took the stage everyone went crazy.

            Since Raheem is a hometown hero, he arguably had the loudest reaction. He performed classics hits such as Customer and Guess who loves you more. After a few more songs, he got off the stage and went to his meet & greet. After his performance however, WHUR personality Nikki Strong (twitter and IG @IAMNikkiStrong) came to the WHUR table to give out the free makeup bags. She really liked our enthusiasm as we were able to talk and take pictures with her. 

From Left to right: Mariya, Nikki Strong and yours truly.

 Since we were able to get our work done, we were able to go and meet Raheem. Although the line to meet him was huge, Mariya and I found a way near the front of the line and got our pictures. He did say it was cool that we were meeting him again in such a short amount of time. He told me to keep doing my thing and who knows if I meet him again in the near future, I have to get the interview.

Raheem DeVaughn and I

            After working for about two hours in the hot sun, Mariya & I needed some food. Although this event was free, there was no free food provided, Wal-Mart was the closest place that had food. As we were getting ready to take a lunch break, Ms. Darlene Jackson gave us her VIP passes and told us to go behind the stage for food. Man they had everything from sandwiches, fried chicken, fruit, cookies and a variety of drinks. I felt like we were living the glamorous life as we got to indulge in good food.

            While we were in the back eating, I met Cynthia Bailey and she is really cool in person which isn’t the norm when meeting a Reality TV Star.  After that Mariya & I were recapping the day saying how blessed we were and what would put the icing on top would be meeting Marsha Ambrosius. As we continued to talk, I turn around said “Oh My God”, there’s Marsha literally across from us just chilling. I’m like wow we have perfect timing man. We were able to get pictures and I asked her a few questions. 

Marsha Ambrosius & I

One question I was trying to ask was “Now that OutKast is back together, will you link up with them because The Art of Storytellin’ Pt. 4 is still a classic?” As she heard “Now that OutKast is back together…” she immediately yelled No Floetry is not getting back together. She told me that if I knew what happened back the scenes, I would never want Floetry to reunite. She added that they made great music together but let’s leave it at that.  After that I asked her would you work with OutKast again since they are performing together again, she said if they hit me up, I’m down. Then we were talking about how she came to GHOE in2011 and killed the stage but how she was mad that Wale (who also performed at GHOE in 2011) left the show for another show so they couldn’t do Diary. She said jokingly when she sees Wale, she would check him.

            Afterwards, she went on stage and she is by far the best female performer I’ve ever seen. She did a little bit of everything from Far Away, "Hope She Cheats On You (With A Basketball Player), Say Yes and she performed her new single Run off her album which will drop in the summer. After watching her perform, we helped clean up and ended the day with success. I only wonder what will happen for the rest of the summer if blessings like this continue to happen.

Thanks for reading as always. Before I close the article, I got to shout out my man Kevin (IG @_240) because he was there and it’s good to catch up with good friends. Also shout out to Brandon Standard (IG @jroc_drumming) a fellow HBCU journalist who I met at the event, keep grinding my dude and we have to link up before the summer is out.

Left to right: Brandon, Me and Mariya.

Since this is my first article since school let out, I want to say congrats to 2014 on graduating, I’m proud of you, now it’s my turn next year. New content soon and by June, I will revamp the site so stay tuned.

Until next time, be blessed, be safe and remember your purpose. Know your why and flourish. Let’s be great together.

[thoughtsofdapperj]

A day in the life of Dapper J: April 23, 2014

It's been too long...way too long as Drake said on The Ride. First off my apologies to everyone, been super busy with school but you know me I haven't forgotten about you guys. As always I make my moves lowkey so when I do blog, it's usually something important. Once the summer hits and I have more free time, you will start seeing content on a more fluent basis. If not CALL ME OUT ON IT and I got you. S/O my suitemate Van (follow on twitter and IG Civil_King540) for getting me to write this. Ok I'll recap my whole day because it was full of interesting events, so without further ado, let's get to it.

Off guard picture of me repping the Street Team

            So as a member of WNAA 90.1 (NC A&T's Radio Station) street team, I knew we had two big events to do. One was to promote a special screening of the movie Neighbors starring Zac Efron and Seth Rogen. In case y'all haven't seen the preview (here is the link >> http://youtu.be/pzZgJZMXNEc) it's about a young family with a newborn baby whose new neighbors is a fraternity. This movie has been given rave reviews and it's supposed to be hilarious. 

Neighbors staring Seth Rogen and Zac Efron

All you had to do was follow WNAA on instagram (@wnaaradiostation) and you got a ticket. Man when I tell you they were going quicker than pancakes on free pancake day at IHOP. We also had other Neighbors merch with posters, red cups, t-shirts, etc. With campus buzzing about the screening, I may have to write a review about the movie. If it's really funny, I got you.

The Main Event: Hip Hop Caucus 

            Now for  the main course, why I am writing this review. The second thing the station was responsible for is the Hip Hop Caucus (@HipHopCaucus) tour stop. When I heard about the meet and greet, I was happy because the main attraction was Raheem DeVaughn (@raheem_devaughn) a native of the DMV and incredible R&B artist. His album A Place Called Loveland to me is classic and I wrote it on my blog as one of the best albums of last year. Then when I saw the flyer I found out Amanda Seales (@amandaseales) was on the panel along with Rev. Yearwood who was spearheading the event. I remember Amanda as "Amanda Diva" from Best Week Ever, I Love the 90 and Music Choice so I was pumped but the person that excited me the most was Dee-1 (@Dee1music). I been a fan of Dee-1's music since my 12th grade year in High School. It's crazy I would tweet him like come to A&T and then for him to actually come was truly amazing.

            Before the panel at 7, WNAA had a private meet & greet with the panelists at 3:30 to talk about the event and ask them some Q&A questions. I showed up late due to class but when I arrived, I took to heart what Rev. Yearwood had to say during the event and made sure to let him know I was looking forward to the event. 

Q&A with WNAA. left to right: Rev. Yearwood, Amanda Seales, Dee-1

After Dee-1 and Amanda Seales did a radio interview, I spoke to Dee-1 to let him know how much of a fan I am of his work. I start reciting lyrics, mentioning classic songs and he even told me he is thinking about redoing "100 yard dash" (go look up I hope they hear me vol. 1 and you'll be in awe just like I was). When Dee-1 saw I was real when I showed him my first article I ever did in the A&T Register last year was about artist I had blowing up in 2013 and he was one of them. He retweeted the link but the fact I could show him the newspaper was a surreal feeling for both of us. 

Dee-1 and I discussing the article

I gave him my business card and well I will get to the status of later in the blog.

Hip Hop Caucus: #ActOnClimate

            The panel begins at 7pm and Rev. Yearwood delivered one of the most powerful opening statements I've ever heard. I wish I had footage of everything Yearwood said because he spoke so much truth. One thing that stuck with me was how serious asthma is in the African American Community and how people need to know the severity. Did you know blacks are two times more likely to have asthma than whites. In 2009, African Americans were three times more likely to die from asthma related causes than the White population. Rev. Yearwood had the crowd in silence when he asked to raise your hands if you have asthma and nearly the whole auditorium rose their hand. Then he ask to stand if you know anyone with asthma or cancer and everyone stood up. What silenced everyone is when he asked anyone who knows someone who lost their life to asthma or cancer to sit and only one person remain standing. That hit the core right there man.

            I learned a lot from the panel on climate change and how we can improve the conditions we live in but also the people who live in it. After two hours of talking, debating and questioning, we were treated to impromptu performances by Amanda Seales, Dee-1 and Raheem Devaughn. They all did their thing and I underestimated Amanda because she can really sing and before last night I didn't know that. After the event, I caught up with Dee-1 and got him to sign the article. 

My first ever published article and a year later he gets to sign it. Major Blessing.

We chopped it up for a bit and I believe our paths will cross again in the near future.  I got to speak to Amanda and she is really genuine. she kept it real with me about the industry and how she feels about our people. Raheem was mad cool, told him to keep doing his thing, make a video for In the meantime and the customer remix with R. Kelly is one of the greatest records ever lol. I was enlighten by what took place and immediately after the event, myself along with my homie Shaun (IG @shaun_b_) and Leeona (twitter @TheeGoldenSoul) partook in an interview for a possible documentary dealing with various topics from the millennial generation, how social media will impact the future and marijuana. If that drops, trust me, I will let you know ASAP.

            So in a nutshell that was my day. I got to meet one of my favorite rappers, singers and personalities. Most importantly it was to promote the betterment of our people and to be social responsible for the culture through climate change. As the school year is coming to a close, it was cool that this was the last meet & greet. I've been doing a lot this year and if this year was "The Takeover" and my senior year will be the "The Big Bang". Things are taking shape to all me and my people to be successful. If you made it this far, thank you for reading and more content will come up in the near future along with some changes but I think you guys won't mind. Be blessed, stay dope and Keep it G and in the words of Dee-1: #SUAG: Shut up & Grind.

Radio Raheem aka The Love King with Dapper J

Amanda Seales and yours truly. She is still Amanda Diva in my eyes

Dee Uno and myself. 3's Up. 

P.S. I know someone is going to ask why it look like Dee-1 and I looking like some Kappas with the symbol, with him it means 3's up. It means Be Real, Be Righteous, Be Relevant. Look up his mixtape The Focus Tape and listen to 3's Up if you're still confused. Peace Kings and Queens.

[thoughtsofdapperj]

Get Home Safely Tour Review

Last Night my man, Mr. OPM himself Dom Kennedy came to The Fillmore in Charlotte on his Get Home Safely Tour and I had the pleasure of being in attendance. I went with my best friend in Jasmine (@DurrrSheGooo) and my new concert homie in TJ (@YoungBillionair). From start to finish the Dom Kennedy experience was great so without further ado, lets recap.

                                                Jasmine & I 

            My Sunday was filled with moves as I along with Melanie (@GirlMelaniee) took part in the beginning of a film A Sacred Love. To be a part of a movie is incredible and its going to be an interesting month so stay tuned with that. Around 5pm, Jasmine picked me up and soon after I hit the road to Charlotte. On the ride to Charlotte me and TJ just talked about the state of Hip Hop, favorite artists, what song we want to see Dom perform and before I knew it, we were in Charlotte. Now the Fillmore in Charlotte is completely different from the one in Silver Spring, MD. The security was moving everyone along quickly and heck they even gave me a wristband to drink but don't worry I didn't indulge in any alcohol.

                                                TJ & I

            Around 8:15, DC native Nike Nando (@Supernikenando) performed and before 2/9/14, I had never heard of this dude but he really impressed me. He spit a freestyle, rapped over We Made it and came with so much energy that I am eager to see what he does in the near future. Always show love to the Home Team. After Nando, the #AMCSBodega Boys came through and they were deep. I can't lie, they all were pretty good and had incredible production but Elevator Jay was the best performer. He gave me the vibe a Big K.R.I.T. meets Project Pat and me comparing anyone to KRIT means that Jay is the truth. The fans were a little rowdy with Lotta (@Lotta910) because they wanted to see Skeme and Dom but he definitely held his own.

            Fast forward to 9:30ish, Inglewood's very own Skeme came through and tore the place DOWN. He performed jams and my man TJ knew all of them. But when he closed out the performance with T.O., the place went Bananas. After Skeme performed, we aligned ourselves in the middle of the Fillmore to we had a straight shot to see Dom. Less than 15 minutes, "Dominic" plays and the man of the hour bless the stage.

                                                                                        Skeme

            After "Dominic" plays, the intro of Get Home Safely "Let's be Friends" comes on and everybody was straight vibing. Flashback to the car ride to the show and I kept saying when "17" drops, I'm going crazy. Sure enough, the third song he did was "17" and I am a man of my word because I knew lyric for lyric. He brought back Skeme to do one of the album favorites in "If It Don't Make Money". He then transitioned to his last project, "The Yellow Album" which had fans going crazy. He started it off with "So Elastic" the album's intro followed by "We Ball" another crowd favorite and the crowd rapped all of Kendrick's verse. You know the anthem of all anthems in "My Type of Party" came on and just imagine how live the audience got. The one thing I like about Dom is that he appeases to everyone as he performed "Girls On Stage" and while Dom was rapping you could see all the beautiful women singing in unison.

                                           Dom Kennedy

            Dom went back into Get Home Safely with songs such as "South Central Love", "Still Callin", "Erica Part 2" and "Pleeze". Before he continued, he brought onstage Rapper Big Pooh and Skillz who were in the audience. After getting the approval from the OGs, he took it back to one of his classics in "1997" and the whole crowd said in harmony "I be that nigga always wearing something clean for the groupies". Hearing that proved to me how these were Day one fans were grew with Dom's music. Another flashback, the only other classic Dom Kennedy song I mentioned on the ride to the show was "Grind'n" off From the Westside, With Love II and when the beat dropped...MAN I WENT BALLISTIC. I wish he performed the whole song but its cool.  

           He later played "After school", "Gold Alpinas" "Black Bentleys" and a few more before the show ended. As a fan he did most of my favorites but there was a guy nearby that really wanted to hear "Been Thuggin" but hey maybe next time. After the show, I got to catch up with my concert brethren  Leeroy (@leeroyknievil), my aggie fam Miles (@MDZY_) and my concert buddies Wendy and Raven. I later got to meet and chop it up with Skeme. That's a real cool dude man, very humble laid back and just positive vibes. As we were staying around trying to meet Dom, I looked at his merchandise and realize that he has his own socks, shirts, jackets, etc and they were all fashionable. Man no wonder he is Mr. OPM because he was taking everyone's money.

             Before we left, these two dudes by the name of King Callis (@Kingcallis) and Arturo (@ArturoGreene) repping PaperBoi were rapping for Skeme and they had bars for DAYS!. I got to chop it up with them and who knows where that will go but stay tuned to them because they got potential. I later saw Dom but he immediately went to the tour bus. Overall I had a great night, saw Dom Kennedy, met Skeme and got to TURNUP with good people. I have no idea when I will be in the 704 area again but man concerts there are dope. Oh if anything I noticed throwback jerseys and hockey jerseys will be coming back into style. Remember I said it first and until next time these are the thoughts of Dapper J.

            .

                                            King Callis and I

                                   Skeme and yours truly. 

                               PaperBoi CEO Arturo and myself

                              JOMC BOYS

[thoughtsofdapperj]

Recap Of Super Bowl Sunday

The First Sunday of February is known around the country as Super Bowl Sunday but I started this unofficial holiday with some D1 Basketball. Ladies and gentlemen I was going into Cameron Indoor Stadium to watch The Duke Lady Blue Devils take on Fighting Irish Women of  Notre Dame. These teams were number three and two respectfully and it was nationally televised on ESPN so it was a pretty big deal. I was able to see the game up close because my friend Melanie (@GirlMelaniee) is good friends with Notre Dame starting Freshman PG Lindsay Allen.

            Arriving at Cameron was a surreal moment because as a big Maryland Terp fan my whole life, I could not stand Duke as a child and the rivalry still burns deep even though Maryland is leaving the ACC after the season. The campus was beautiful, it was a beautiful day weather wise, the atmosphere was electric with fans from all ages eager to give us tickets even if we did not have any.

            It seemed like from the moment of the tip off, there was a sense in the air that Notre Dame had this one in the bag. Almost immediately, Lindsay Allen scored the first two points and throughout the half Kayla McBride was on her way to a game high 23 points and 11 rebounds along with Jewell Lloyd adding 17 points, 5 assist and 4 steals. Don't get me wrong, when the game was in reach, the Cameron Crazies lived up to the hype with antics to distract Notre Dame but like great teams do, they stayed the course and won in convincing fashion. I was very impressed with Lindsay Allen who had 15 points but her poise and pivotal playmaking ability was exactly what my friend was raving about hours before during our ride to Durham.

            After the 88-67 win, we were able to go to the floor where I was able to meet Lindsay Allen along with her friends and family. The support for Notre Dame at the game was stronger than I expected as several parents were in attendance. This team has the potential to make history and create their own legacy in the first season since star guard and new WNBA poster child Skylar Diggins departure. We were able to take pictures and I wish the best for Lindsay, who knows she is only a Freshman, three years from now she can be the role model for future ballers as she makes that next transition but only time will tell.

            To see Duke lose live was beautiful and to take pictures that some fans would consider disrespectful was incredible but that feeling would only last  few hours because the Super Bowl took place and man I did not see those results coming.

            After a lack of communication with my friends, I caught the Super Bowl when it was 5-0 Seahawks. Me being the optimistic person that I am, I thought Peyton Manning would make a great comeback. It just seemed that the Broncos that had the greatest statistical season of all time went to a parallel universe and in turn we got some team that had never played an NFL game before. Peyton Manning had by his standards a poor game, the Broncos defense were lethargic as they didn't want to finish tackles and the Special Teams let Percy Harvin have arguably the biggest play of the game with a second half opening kickoff for a touchdown. What added salt to the wound was the commercials were terrible this year so since I was rooting for the broncos I could not enjoy a moment of the game.

            Since Super Bowl XXXVIII (38), fans of the NFL have been privilege to watch some classic battles with close scoring, great teams and most important a dramatic finish. It's been 11 years  (Super Bowl XXXVII) since we as sports fans have seen a blowout. I feel like I was watching someone beat another person on Madden with how some of those plays unfolded. It was a nightmarish event that made me feel terrible for Peyton  who people were ready to claim as arguably the greatest QB of all time. As my father always told me, on Any Given Sunday, any team can be beat and the Broncos were embarrassed. It's ironic that Peyton gets a chance to redeem himself against Seattle next season as they are scheduled to match up in which I hope is a much better performance then what I had to watch last night.

            Well from start to finish, my day was filled with Action Packed Sports. It started off wonderfully, I just it would have ended the same. Until next time, thanks for checking in and have a great day.

[thoughtsofdapperj]

Dapper J’s premiere episode featuring North Carolina based lyricist and producer Rock L Spivey. Download his mixtape “The Age of Innocence” January 29th.

[thoughtsofdapperj]

Kid Ink - My Own Lane

Man oh man, its be almost a year since I've last spoke to Kid Ink during his visit at North Carolina A&T (Enjoy http://youtu.be/0AvFw4Q6rwo) and at the time he was working on his debut album which was still untitled and promoting his single "Bad Ass" featuring Meek Mill and Wale which is now a Bonus Track. He has definitely been a buzz since the days I've first discovered courtesy of DJ Ill Will (Your Wifey's Favorite DJ) and DJ Rockstar on HotNewHipHop with his tape Crash Landing. From hearing the tape, I had a similar reaction to when I heard Wiz Khalifa which was the moment he pops, he will go mainstream because his sound can captivate the masses. Since then he has been featured as a XXL Freshmen (same class as Macklemore, Future, French Montana), worked with tons of great artist and after putting out his first independent album Up & Away and now he starts of 2014 with My Own Lane. Let's dig into the review.

His album starts out with "Hello World" which is the upbeat popish sound that makes you feel good and this track just defines his climb to where he is today. His second track "The Movement" follows that upbeat with this car banger that has also deals with his "BatGang" movement and brags by saying in the chorus "I know you can feel the movement". Track three is the smash single "Show Me" featuring Chris Brown and produced by DJ Mustard. Mustard shows once again that his beat making formula keeps creating hits and with C Breezy on the hook, Kid Ink was given the recipe for success and did his thing. Over winter break, I could not escape this record because its so undeniable. "Iz U Down" featuring Tyga goes in depth with most males fantasies in having multiple women in a night and Tyga perfectly suits this record by delivering a verse that would suffice all ratchet lovers.

The album transitions to my personal favorite "We Just Came to Party" featuring R&B sensation August Alsina. This song SCREAMS Number 1 on the billboard if promoted properly. From The Runners on the beat to the catchy chorus and gravitating lyrics, its a huge hit no doubt. My Own Lane gets a double dose of Chris Brown with "Main Chick" once again produced by DJ Mustard. They collaborations are always on point and this is another club banger that should dominate radio. "No Option" featuring King Los is lyrically the best record on the album, and it should address to his critics how seriously he should be taken in Hip Hop. "Murda" features Pusha T and Kid Ink was perfect for getting Push because he was brilliant on this. "Rollin" follows up with an upbeat club banger which deals with his lifestyle. Very flashy record but seeing him grow since 2010, he deserves it. 

The album transitions to "Tattoo of my name" which is an ode dedicated to a particular girl who has his name tattooed on her . One of the soul grabbing songs in "No Miracles" featuring Elle Varner and Machine Gun Kelly eloquently give that uplifting feel that everyone can relate to. MGK comes in and songs like this bring out the best in him. That motivational anthem transitions to a response to his haters featuring the vocals of Maejor Ali. The album ends on "More Than a King" and Kid Ink ends it on a strong note. This song makes you feel empowered. 

Overall the album is a great introduction to Kid Ink in the world of the mainstream. The album is filled with hits that captivated the masses but expect to hear more from Kid Ink in the near future. This album sold 50K first week and is number 3 on the billboard charts overall and number one on the billboard rap charts. I give the album a 7.5/10 & encourage everyone to take a listen. 

[thoughtsofdapperj]

5 songs to pop in 2014

The following songs listed all came out in 2013 but due to timing or buzz, it didn't catch on. Well I'm hear to give you my take on the songs to blow up. I guarantee you will be hearing at least two of these songs heavily.

5. Lil Kemo - Kemo Step

Now this song is shedding light to another aspect of Chicago music. If Kanye, Lupe, Common & Chance give you lyrics, Chief Keef, Lil Durk & King Louie give you Drill music, then Kemo gives you Bop music. Lil Kemo along with D-Lo have ushered in a new Chicago dance craze that can hit mainstream. The song is so catchy with a great beat, simple lyrics and a variety of dances. The official video has over 200,000 views on Youtube, over 30,000 on Worldstar and countless vine renditions, so don't be surprised if this becomes the new jam. The "Nae Nae" better lookout.

4. Chief Keef - Killer 

After a phenomenal 2012, Chief Keef's 2013 was less than stellar. After Bang 2 being a disappointment, he announce he will go back to his old ways on Bang 3 even saying "the tape will raise the murder rate." I can't say I agree with him on that but this new song goes hard. For one he finally got back with his bread in butter in Young Chop and made a hit. This song could spawn Bang 3 to have multiple Chop beats and Keef + Chop = hits. Expect fans to go crazy when this drops in a party.

3. Migos - Emmitt Smith

All last year we heard was Versace Versace or Hannah Montana and if you didn't hear any of those phrases then you were under a rock. They seemingly overnight became rap's biggest sensation. Riding on that momentum they have started #MigosMondays in preparation for #YRN2 and this release has the recipe of their biggest hits to date. I'm telling you if this song catches fire, its a WRAP.

2. Thraxxx - Too

When you think DMV music, Go Go comes to mind along with Wale, Fat Trel but Thraxxx has shook things up with their mixtape and the smash single Too. This song has dominated social media with over 300,000 youtube views, vines and a song placement on Modern War Negro youtube channel. It's slowly starting to creep up around music circles and one cosign could give this group that breakthrough all artists dream off.

1. Young Thug - Danny Glover

  Everybody has probably heard Stoner by newcomer Young Thug and rightfully so, the song is a hit. But for someone who's mixtaoe 1017 Thug received critical acclaim, his song Danny Glover is what may give him national stardom. This song has received cosigns from Childish Gambino and Waka Flocka Flame. There is video of Drake dancing to it in the club along with Jay Z requesting this song in the club while in Atlanta. Its safe to say those endorsements along with aligning with Gucci makes him a potential star.

If you read this and ask why these five songs, I'd probably blame my environment but trust me these songs go big in 2014 mark my words.

[thoughtsofdapperj]

My take on redskins coach Jay Gruden. Either he will be very great or very bad. Let's hope for the first option. HTTR

[thoughtsofdapperj]

First Sports Video. One take, it will improve over time but here are my playoff Picks. Oh Shoutout #Misfitkidz on the beat

[thoughtsofdapperj]

Which team would pick for a game to 21 to save your life against the other 3 teams listed in the photo. I'm rolling with Team B although Team C would be tough to stop. Who do you have 

[thoughtsofdapperj]

Me and my homie @mdzy_ were having a debate over which actor is better. I said #DenzelWashington and he said #WillSmith. So who you think is better and explain why.