Labor Department Music

Introduction To The LD

2018-04-20T11:06:00.000-07:00

Members: Uncle Diggs (Producer - Corona, Queens, NY/Silver Spring, MD) and Rod Da Blizz (MC/Producer -Long Island, NY/Baltimore, MD)

The two began working together in 2004 upon meeting at Diggs's studio named "The Franklin Mint" through a mutual friend named Ron (Bacardi) Ramsey. Initially, they worked on numerous underground songs with Diggs serving as the main supply of beats for Blizz as an MC at the time. One of those songs was a song called "You", which became memorable to internet heads in many places. While the song was building a buzz, Ron Ramsey, the mutual friend that introduced Diggs and Blizz to each other, passed away due to heart failure. With the death of their friend on their minds, they continued to keep working on songs and trying to perfect their craft.

Uncle Diggs had already released an album of his own under the name Frank Diggs called The Balance before he met Rod Da Blizz, but as they were working together, there were more Frank Diggs follow-ups "Summer Madness" and "Hispanic Shaft: The Mixtape Movie" under Corona, Queens-based indie label Crown City Records in 2004 and 2005, respectively. After those projects were released, Diggs and Blizz kept on working together, but with Rod Da Blizz handling more on the production end, often collaborating on production with Diggs. In 2006, The Labor Department was born.

May 2007 saw the release of Rod Da Blizz's debut project "The Damn Mixtape". Later that year, Uncle Diggs released "The Labor Department Presents Koncrete Jungle: The Documentary", a project that is still receiving positive feedback on the internet. Rod Da Blizz continued to push himself as an MC by putting out mixtape bangers with Crown City Records like "Mr. Goodbars" and "Gaffenology" with Gab Gacha and Camiliano on a mixtape named "One Way Or Another Pt. 2: The D.R.A.M.A. Initiative", mixed by Justo Award-winning DJ Dub Floyd. Rod Da Blizz also produced, and appeared on Crown City labelmate Trujillo's "Keep The Hate Up" on Trujillo's "Ol' Skool Young Nigga Vol. 2: The Appetite", also mixed by Dub Floyd. For now, you can find these projects on CrownCityMedia.net. However, these projects will also be posted on this site so that whoever downloads them sees not only how far the two have come, but how far they're determined to go. With no major backing involved, they rely on authenticity, which is what Hip-Hop was based on when it started.

With that said, look out for future projects to come out of The Labor Department.

Uncle Diggs. Rod Da Blizz. Creating a hostile working environment for opponents since 2006. The Labor Department.

Long live Hip-Hop. Enjoy.

PEACE

Labor Department 2011 Beat Sampler #4

2011-12-31T17:40:00.000-08:00

Last one of the year, folks. Happy New Year. 2012 will be better. Keep your ears open.

Tenille - ...Fall In Love? and Beautiful Stranger

2011-11-27T17:03:00.001-08:00

2 exclusives from Tenille! We're definitely proud to say we produced these records for this amazing artist. The first is entitled "...Fall In Love?" This record was also co-written by another talented artist by the name of Shay The Jewnius. The second joint is entitled "Beautiful Stranger". That one contains the background vocal stylings of Brooklyn's Rich Rivera and some ill guitar riffs from Nicholas R. Boyd. Listen to them here, then cop them on iTunes. Enjoy.

...Fall In Love?-TENILLE by Tenillemusic

Beautiful Stranger by Tenillemusic

Gab Gotcha - Humility: The Animated Video

2011-11-15T22:14:00.000-08:00

This is dope. Haha! Oh yeah, produced by The Labor Department.

Dues Been Paid - Fuck Outta Here EP

2011-11-01T16:25:00.000-07:00

This is the debut EP from the group Dues Been Paid (Camiliano, Rod Da Blizz & Thruway) entitled "Fuck Outta Here". Produced entirely by The Labor Department. Expect nothing less than pure unadulterated Hip-Hop. This was released on October 31, 2011, but due to some unfavorable circumstances, we're a day late on this. Regardless, we take great pride in presenting this to you all. Hopefully you all will enjoy it and take something from it. If not, read the title. Click on front cover to download.

Dues Been Paid - Fuck Outta Here EP Promo

2011-10-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

Dues Been Paid consists of Camiliano, Thruway & LD's Rod Da Blizz. The debut EP "Fuck Outta Here" will be available on Halloween. You can download it for free on this site and on www.camiliano.com. Peep it.

Camiliano - The Reform (ft. AG Da Coroner, Meyhem Lauren & J-Love)

2011-10-26T07:48:00.000-07:00

Peep this hardbody Crown City/Outdoorsmen collaboration. Produced by The Labor Department.

Labor Department 2011 Beat Sampler #3

2011-10-07T21:42:00.000-07:00

It's been a while. Listen, enjoy, and send an email to TheLaborDepartment@gmail.com if you're serious!

Camiliano - Brain Trust (Produced by The Labor Department)

2011-08-16T05:19:00.001-07:00

New joint from Camiliano's upcoming project, "No Days Off". Enjoy.

Make sure download it here:
http://hulkshare.com/gnxzvf6ac1f2

The Band Called FUSE - Love & War in the City

2011-07-27T11:49:00.000-07:00

The majority of people who visit this site think that this site is strictly about LD. Well, not really. Not only do we showcase our work on this site, but we recognize and salute anything that's dope. With that said, this is a joint by The Band Called FUSE called "Love & War in the City". Silent Knight spits the vivid truth about city life over a Sly & The Family Stone-styled backdrop that is as authentic as the Vietnam War-era backdrop in this video. Nicely done. Great song. Real lyrics. Enjoy.

Camiliano - We Ain't F*ckin' Around (ft. Thruway & Rod Da Blizz) (Produced by The Labor Department)

2011-07-23T18:29:00.000-07:00

Exclusive from Corona, Queens MC Camiliano with Thruway and LD's Rod Da Blizz on the assist.

Make sure download it here:
http://hulkshare.com/09g7jxdgten6

Rod Da Blizz - Termination At Will (Produced by The Labor Department)

2011-07-11T13:48:00.000-07:00

DJ Rhude says: "Rod Da Blizz vents for all the working stiffs who have ever gotten canned from their JO. Thankfully Rod only went postal on the track and not on the heads at his ex-job."

Labor Department 2011 Beat Sampler #2

2011-06-07T18:49:00.000-07:00

Here's another beat sampler for your ears, y'all. Enjoy.

Motiongraff - "Corona Clash"

2011-05-17T16:43:00.000-07:00

Peep graffiti artists Clark and Mesoe get busy while Gab Gotcha and The Labor Department provide the soundscape.

MOTIONGRAFF Episode 14 - "CORONA CLASH" from MOTIONGRAFF on Vimeo.

Labor Department 2011 Beat Sampler #1

2011-04-07T16:17:00.001-07:00

It's been a minute since the last beat sampler. Time to bless you all with the first one of 2011.

R.I.P. Nate Dogg

2011-03-17T20:31:00.000-07:00

We're paying our respects to one of the illest artists to sing a hook on a hip-hop song and a huge part of the West Coast hip-hop history, Nate Dogg. May the brother rest peacefully.

Willie Maze - Remember That Shit (New York City)

2011-03-01T15:51:00.000-08:00

Here's an LD-produced exclusive from Corona, Queens' Willie Maze. Quintessential New York City hip-hop at its finest. Enjoy.

Rod Da Blizz (ft. Thruway & Gab Gotcha) - 2 Shots and The Dour (Produced by The Labor Department)

2011-01-31T16:28:00.000-08:00

Here's an exclusive for y'all. If you don't know what the "dour" is, it's Crown City's nickname for one of the most potent marijuana strains, Sour Diesel, and of course, 2 shots of liquor. "2 Shots and The Dour" features Corona, Queens' own Thruway and Wu-Music Group artist Gab Gotcha. If the song perfectly describes your vices, you'll enjoy this one.

Frank Diggs - Koncrete Jungle: The Documentary

2011-01-27T18:04:00.001-08:00

As written on KevinNottingham.com:

"Good beatmakers are a dime a dozen but a great producer is a rare find. A great producer is similar to a great film director in that he/she not only provides you with the backdrop for your lyrics, but he/she can also give your story direction and help you bring your thoughts to life.

Enter Frank Diggs & his latest offering entitled “Koncrete Jungle”. Not only does Diggs provide all of the production, he also manages to skillfully tell his own story with the help of some of his talented friends. The sequencing and movie soundbyte manipulation come together flawlessly to tell you a vivid story that’s in your face without the Sony 3D HDTV. In a genre of music that has lost its way in the art of album making, this is a welcome edition.

Whether you are familiar with the works of Queens, NYC native Frank Diggs or if this is your first opportunity to be consumed by his audio humidity, rests assure that Koncrete Jungle is a solid presentation in quality hip-hop that appeals to both the classic hard knocker as well as the contemporary hipster. With production that exudes effortless cool, the well-polished pacing and precise drum programming with super clean bass lines only goes to compliment, rather than compete with, the vast array of rhyme slingers and crooners that gather to celebrate the idea that everyday people need great anthems to vibe with. Just as with his prior releases, this Diggs mixtape release has a storyline and flow, and is a methodical collage of east coast bop from the perspective of a musical mastermind that appreciates both the nod and the ride. An album with a sound that captures every facet of any urban environment. Lace em’ up and get ya’ shit right, welcome to the Koncrete Jungle."

Click on cover to download.

Mac Miller - When The Money Comin' Slow

2011-01-27T17:39:00.000-08:00

Mac Miller is an artist we've appreciated for a while. This young Pittsburgh, PA native's grind has built a crazy loyal following as of late as he will be releasing his debut album on Rostrum Records in the near future. Here's a Rod Da Blizz-produced joint entitled "When The Money's Comin' Slow", a song that deals with the effect the recession has had on many people who are on the grind. It won't be on any of his official projects, but we figured we'd share it with y'all anyway.

Rod Da Blizz - Chaos (Freestyle)

2011-01-07T21:32:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, y'all! 2010 was an up and down year for us, but we expect this year to be much better. To start it off, here's a freestyle that has been on any other site but ours until now. "Chaos" is a freestyle that was done over Gang Starr's "Soliloquy Of Chaos" loop to honor Guru. We hope you enjoy it.

By the way, rest in peace, Teena Marie...You'll be greatly missed.

Jaisu

2010-12-14T16:00:00.000-08:00

In a world where most people tend to only pat themselves on the back, we do the exact opposite. Not only are we a production team, but we are fans and enthusiasts first. Having said that, we highly recommend listening to Jaisu's "Straight Out The MPC" album (and copping it as well). This young beatmaker from Scotland is a beast when it comes to chopping up a sample and making it unique. Click on the cover to check his work...or just watch a YouTube clip of him killin' it.

Labor Promo: The Funk Shop Edition

2010-12-01T16:24:00.001-08:00

Why stop at Sampler #7? This is a preview of what we'll be smackin' y'all with in the near future.

Gab Gotcha - Humility (Produced by The Labor Department)

2010-12-01T15:52:00.000-08:00

This is a new joint from Wu Music Group's new artist Gab Gotcha. This Corona, Queens representative isn't a stranger to the game, having featured on The Beatnuts' Street Level and Stone Crazy albums. We're fortunate to have helped him create this banger entitled "Humility" from his upcoming mixtape, The 37th Chamber. On December 7th, make sure you cop his debut Timeless album on Wu Music Group/The Orchard/TVT. In the meantime, enjoy.

Labor Department 2010 Beat Sampler #7

2010-12-01T15:36:00.000-08:00

Sit back, relax, and listen. Thanks.

Tenille - Anything (Labor Department Remix)

2010-11-02T21:29:00.000-07:00

Another banger from the ever so talented Tenille. This was originally done on The Notorious B.I.G.'s "I Got A Story To Tell" beat. She threw the acapella out there, and we reworked it the best way we know how to. We had to share it with the world. Enjoy.

Stephanie Mills - Something In The Way You Make Me Feel (Labor Department Remix)

2010-10-27T22:30:00.001-07:00

Another remix of a classic for the people...Enjoy.

Rod Da Blizz - Carnage

2010-10-08T16:38:00.000-07:00

Queens-HipHop.com says: "Crown City's PLK and 1/2 of the lethal production duo The Labor Dept. is back with a mean mug & he hopes you get "raped by a pack of niggaz!!!" LOL....Here's a quick little sample to hold you over while he continues to put the finishing touches on his upcoming project "Phukk Y'all: Another Damn Mixtape!!!".

Labor Department 2010 Beat Sampler #6

2010-09-23T04:08:00.000-07:00

Another exclusive beat sampler for the people...

Rod Da Blizz - Point Blank (ft. Noah Jones)

2010-09-19T06:27:00.000-07:00

Here's an exclusive collaboration for the people. 1/2 of The Labor Department Rod Da Blizz has teamed up with New York-bred, West Coast-based independent workhorse Noah Jones to create a powerful joint called "Point Blank", a song that explains the reality of the struggles that come along with trying to achieve success. Make sure you go to peep Noah Jones's album "The Incinerator" by clicking here.

Marvin Gaye - I Want You (Labor Department Remix)

2010-09-11T20:12:00.000-07:00

Here's another remix of a classic...LD style.

9/11...9 years later...

2010-09-11T20:06:00.000-07:00

We had to take the time to say that our sincere condolences go out to the families of the victims of a completely senseless act of violence on September 11, 2001. All the best from The Labor Department.

Omun - Destiny

2010-07-27T21:10:00.000-07:00

Here is a Labor Department exclusive from one of our longtime collaborators and one of the DMV's most soulful MC's, Omun. "Destiny" is a song that anyone who is trying to reach their goals can relate to. Look forward to hearing more from this brother in the very near future.

Labor Department 2010 Beat Sampler #5

2010-07-06T19:32:00.000-07:00

We're layin' some more treats on y'all (pause)...

Evil Eye: Resident Evil

2010-06-14T22:34:00.000-07:00

Sorry...Did you say that Lil' Kim was goin' at Nicki Minaj? We didn't notice. We were too busy bumpin' "Resident Evil", the debut mixtape from the First Lady of Crown City Records, Evil Eye. This banger is hosted by Evil Empire, Superstar Jay, and the Bouncemaster himself, DJ Doo Wop. For those who have been askin' where the nice female MC's are, here is their answer. Sit back and enjoy.

***Note: "Where You At" was not produced by The Labor Department. It was produced by Jimi Kendrix.

Labor Department 2010 Beat Sampler #4

2010-05-22T21:41:00.000-07:00

We're gonna keep hittin' 'em in the head with bangers...

Willie Maze - Rhyme No More Pt. 2

2010-05-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

Peep the new joint from the Corona, Queens heavyweight hook champ of the world, Willie Maze, called "Rhyme No More Pt. 2". New York hip-hop in its purest form.

Mya ft. Lil' Wayne - Lock You Down (Labor Department Remix)

2010-05-08T10:13:00.000-07:00

Here's another one for your listening pleasure. Hip-Hop, R&B, whatever...LD has it covered.

Tenille - Full Circle (Produced by The Labor Department)

2010-05-06T14:47:00.001-07:00

Not too many R&B artists impress us nowadays. To be brutally honest, a few R&B artists we've worked with did not have the voice or lyrical ability to match their industry influenced "swagger". Given that, we're proud to have worked on this exclusive joint by the Brooklyn born, Queens raised up-and-coming songbird Tenille. In the current age where empty lyrics and formulaic song structure have become sickeningly popular, Tenille brings a level of authenticity and depth to the table, and this exclusive joint "Full Circle" is the proof. Look forward to hearing more from this incredible artist in the near future. Enjoy.

R.I.P. Guru

2010-04-20T20:09:00.000-07:00

Keith "Guru" Elam 7/17/1966 - 4/19/2010

On June 19, 2010, the Hip-Hop world has lost one of its most prolific MC's in the game. At 43, Guru succumbed to cancer, which caused his stroke and left him in a coma for 2 months before he finally passed away. The Labor Department salutes the MC known as Gifted Unlimited Rhymes Universal a.k.a. Baldhead Slick. Rest in power.

Stix ft. Lil' Wop and Trapstar Jay - "I'ma Dwight Howard Ya" (Labor Department Remix)

2010-04-17T21:08:00.000-07:00

Peace to the homie Stix down in Orlando. Stix owns the lab that Willie Maze, Evil Eye and Rod Da Blizz recorded "Ain't No Sunshine" in. Now he and his homies made an Orlando anthem that had to get the LD treatment. Hope y'all enjoy it...

Timbaland - Say Something (ft. Drake) (Labor Department Remix)

2010-03-30T19:37:00.000-07:00

And it don't stop. Labels need to scream at us. Peace.

Wille Maze - We Could Solve It (ft. Trujillo): Video & Remix

2010-03-28T22:45:00.000-07:00

This is a joint from 2 of Corona, Queens' finest, Willie Maze and Trujillo called "We Could Solve It". They did a Ghostface and spit over Bob James' "Nautilus" record, which is one of the most sampled records in Hip-Hop and a record that never leaves LD's collection. Here is the video for "We Could Solve It". Directed by Cartel Films.

And here is the remix we did.

Thanks for listening. Scream at us!!!

Killah Priest - Cross My Heart (ft. Inspectah Deck & GZA) (Labor Department Remix)

2010-03-26T20:18:00.000-07:00

This one was fun to make. Enjoy.

Labor Department 2010 Beat Sampler #3

2010-03-14T21:04:00.000-07:00

Here's another treat for the month of March. Peace...

Best wishes to Guru...

2010-03-13T04:55:00.000-08:00

I know, I know...We're wild late on this, but at least we're posting this at a time when Guru is recovering from a recent heart attack. Personally, I'm tired of posting R.I.P. dedications, so I'm definitely glad Guru is recovering. However, his frequent collaborator Solaar is denying Guru's family from seeing him in the hospital, according to Guru's nephew. We don't co-sign shady stuff like that. The Labor Department sends best wishes to Guru and his family. Hopefully he'll get back in the lab to better production (Hopefully Premier's...or ours. LOL!). All jokes aside, we hope he makes a speedy recovery.

Second beat sampler of 2010

2010-02-28T09:33:00.000-08:00

Another preview...Peace.

This hits hard...

2010-01-16T20:43:00.000-08:00

We extend our most sincere condolences to the families of the people who were killed during the earthquake in Haiti.

Please make sure you donate to help Haiti overcome this terrible disaster. Go to www.yele.org to contribute.

We also can't forget...

Rest in peace, Teddy Pendergrass...

First beat sampler of 2010

2010-01-05T22:58:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, bitch!!! Hahahaha! There's a sneak preview in this sampler to let y'all know what to look out for this year. And don't forget: SERIOUS INQUIRIES ONLY! Enjoy.

New year, new plans...

2010-01-04T03:01:00.000-08:00

Well, '09 was okay. It was rough, but at least we banged out a mixtape that showcased our production (Thanks to DJ 2Mello), and we managed to have some presence on the homie Trujillo's "The Appetite" mixtape and Crown City Records' "Take 'Em To War Pt. 2: The Insurgency" mixtape (which I'm late on posting but will be up on this site shortly). The Lakers won another championship and the Yankees won the World Series for a 27th time, and mad people passed away (Mr. Magic, Roc Raida, DJ AM, Mike Beck). Crazy...

But it's 2010 now. Plans are bigger. There's no better time than now to start workin' diligently to make sure more of our quality work hits the masses no matter what form or fashion we do it in. As long as we make it clear through the music that we're more than just beatmakers, we'll continue to do what we do. Expect a new batch of remixes, collaborations with an extremely talented R&B artist (You'll find out who she is later on), full-length projects, and more beats you can lease.

In the meantime, check out the first joint of the year. It's called "No Sunshine" and it features Willie Maze, Evil Eye, and yours truly.

Enjoy...and let's get it in 2010!

Congrats to the New York Yankees...

2009-10-25T21:56:00.000-07:00

NY is back...Next stop: Philadelphia.

Congratulations to our Prez...

2009-10-10T16:07:00.000-07:00

People will hate, but that is the same reason why they will never win a Nobel Peace Prize. Congratulations, Mr. Barack Obama...

(It's a little late in the game to post this, but better late than never, right?)

Jay-Z ft. Rhianna and Kanye West - Run This Town (Labor Department Remix)

2009-10-09T04:05:00.000-07:00

Here's a new remix that DJ 2Mello requested...The acapella is kinda choppy, but this was fun to make. Enjoy...

DJ 2Mello/Miami Kaos/The Labor Department - The Remix Killa

2009-09-01T08:24:00.000-07:00

01.Dj 2Mello Labor Dept Miami Kaos - Remix Killa Intro
02.Marvin Gaye - Sexual Healing Rmx (Unreleased Exclusive)
03.Mya ft Jay Z - Best Of Me Rmx (Unreleased Exclusive)
04.Donnell Jones ft Jermaine Dupri - Better Start Talkin Rmx (Unreleased Exclusive)
05.112 - It's Over Now Rmx (Unreleased ATL Exclusive)
06.Lloyd ft Lil Wayne - All Around The World Rmx (Unreleased Exclusive)
07.Jackson 5 ft Black Rob - I Want You Back Rmx (Unreleased Exclusive)
08.Chris Brown ft Juelz Santana - Run It Rmx (Unreleased Exclusive)
09.Ciara ft Justin Timberlake - Love, Sex and Magic Rmx (Exclusive)
10.Lil Wayne ft Bobby Valentino - Mrs. Officer Rmx (Exclusive)
11.Bobby Valentino - Hands On Me Rmx (Unreleased Exclusive)
12.London ft Young Dro - Juicy Rmx (Unreleased ATL Exclusive)
13.Aaliyah - Rock The Boat Rmx (Unreleased Exclusive)
14.R. City - Losin' It Rmx (Unreleased ATL Exclusive)
15.Ashanti - Good Good Rmx (Unreleased Exclusive)
16.Avery Storm ft Jada Kiss - Terrified Rmx (Unreleased Exclusive)
17.Danity Kane - Damaged Rmx (Unreleased Exclusive)

ALL TRACKS REMIXED EXCLUSIVELY BY THE LABOR DEPARTMENT

This mixtape will be available on this website and on www.dj2mellornbmixtapes.com very soon.

For info and/or beat inquiries, send an email to TheLaborDepartment@gmail.com or RodDaBlizz@gmail.com.

A lil' beat sampler for the people...

2009-08-18T20:00:00.000-07:00

Peep the sneak preview towards the end of it. Enjoy.

Aaliyah - Rock The Boat (Labor Department Remix)

2009-07-21T09:55:00.000-07:00

Here's a treat for y'all...Be on the lookout for the "Remix Killa" mixtape, courtesy of DJ 2Mello, Miami Kaos, and of course, The Labor Department. Until then, enjoy.

Well, damn...

2009-07-10T14:31:00.000-07:00

Shout out to Gary Anderson for his take on BET after the recent awards show...and I'm positive he's not alone in this.

ORIGINALLY POSTED ON SEARCHING FOR CHET BAKER.

BET had their awards show recently, and they hastily put together a tribute to Michael Jackson after his death, that several artists were to perform including Neyo, Jay Z, Dream and Chris Brown. However, Chris Brown was told by BET that he would not be able to perform.

According to those close to Brown, both Chris and his handlers practically begged BET to allow him to take part. Chris Brown grew up with MJ's music and considered him his idol. He wanted badly to take part in this tribute.

However, BET said no. And now it's coming out that the reason that Chris Brown was denied the ability to pay tribute, is that Jay Z himself told BET that if they allowed Chris to perform, then he (Jay Z) would not perform.

Now at first glance, you might say "good for Jay Z". I mean too little attention seems to go to the fact that Chris Brown did in fact beat up Rihanna. At the time he got a lot of criticism, but we tend to overlook things like that when someone has a talent such as athletics or music (see Kobe Bryant, R. Kelly, etc, etc, etc).

However there's a more serious aspect to this situation, that I'm not sure people are aware of. At what point does a company, in this case BET, decide that they're going to allow an artist to tell them how to run their company, and let that artist dictate policy?

I realize Jay Z is probably one of the more powerful artists out there. And him saying "I'm not going on if Chris performs" that would no doubt have repercussions as it pertains to ratings and the such.

But don't you take a stand somewhere?

I realize we're talking about BET and they sold their soul a LONG time ago. The network has embraced genocidal behavior and glorified it and built their reputation on it. There's nothing good on BET worth watching, for someone wanting to see healthy examples of African American life or culture. I mean, does anyone even REMEMBER that they refused to air a lot of rap videos that were positive in tone? Artists like Tribe Called Quest, Camp Lo and Brand Nubian among many many more, because they were deemed "irrelevant" to their demographics they were going after? Perhaps not enough killing and drug dealing and sex in their videos, I suppose.

Unless you want to see mindless drivel and reinforced negative stereotypes of African Americans as thugs and sexual deviants and objectifying of women, then there's no reason to even turn to that channel.

However, this goes to the larger idea of a company having standards. BET and MTV started out as a way for labels to market their artists. Artists would hope to get their videos played on these channels, and perhaps get to stop by one of their hip hop countdown shows to get their faces out there for promotion. Exposure. They needed BET and MTV to build their names.

However now that the names have been built up, it's like the inmates are running the asylum. This is no different than a magazine interviewing a subject, and that person saying they won't do the interview unless they get full editorial control. And then the Magazine folding like a deck of cards and giving that editorial control, thus not revealing anything the subject doesn't want.

I mean, look at just today's news. The Washington Post was setting up to sell access to it's reporters, and by extension their contacts in the White House for anywhere between 25,000 and 250,000. That would buy, "off the record, nonconfrontational access" to congressmen, members of Obama's administration and going so far as to offer the paper's own reporters and editors, according to a Politico article. That has since been cancelled after the uproar, but you get the point?

With the ascension of blogs in the culture now this is even more prevalent. And if it's not a publication sacrificing whatever journalistic integrity it might have had, it's a blog or a magazine selling it's soul and just putting out a total blowjob of an article in hopes of attracting an interview or an exclusive from that person in the future.

It's shameful. It reeks of selling out, and it's sad that companies like BET have zero integrity, zero honor, and absolutely NO SPINE in their backing down to Jay Z's threats.

Yeah, if Jay Z walked that would have hurt the awards ratings. But this is a tribute to Michael Jackson. This is the BET AWARDS SHOW, not the Jay Z Tribute. Not the JAY Z AWARDS SHOW.

When you sacrifice your integrity and parley that into favors, there's essentially only one thing you can honestly call yourself after that. A whore.

And that's what BET is. A whore.

Should Chris Brown have been allowed to perform? I dunno. I think he's a scumbag for beating on Rihanna no matter whether she hit him first or not. I'd like to see him get a lot more blowback for what he did than he has gotten. But if he wanted to perform at the tribute, and BET didn't have a problem (and they apparantly DIDN'T until Jay stepped in) then he should have gone on.

That decision is up to BET. or it SHOULD have been up to BET. They should never sacrifice their integrity (or what little they had left) by kowtowing to an artist that at one point was depending on them for promotion.

But that would take balls and a spine, two things BET seems to be in vastly short supply.

The King Of Pop

2009-06-26T12:36:00.001-07:00

Wow. I never thought I'd hear the news yesterday. What a kick in the nuts. I'm actually still in disbelief.

As much as I'd like to tell a long story filled with memories of his music, I feel it's only right that I keep it simple by saying that on behalf of myself and Diggs, our deepest condolences go out to the Jackson family for this tragic loss.

No matter how many negative things have been said about him in life and in death, the fact is that he's the best to ever do it. He sold over 750 million records worldwide throughout his career. Even more lives were deeply touched in the process. None can match what he contributed to this music business, and none will be able to match what he contributed to this world.

For the inspiration to be great, the inspiration to touch as many people's hearts as possible, and for your contribution of music that ended up being a major part of the soundtrack to our lives, an infinite amount of thanks is due to you, Michael. May you rest peacefully, and may your records remain permanent fixtures in The Franklin Mint collection. You will be missed forever.

Rest in peace to the true King Of Pop, Michael Jackson. (1958-2009)

Eminem & Big Pun - Pun Intended (Dub Floyd Screamixx) (Produced by Rod Da Blizz)

2009-06-09T12:38:00.000-07:00

Shout out to DJ Dub Floyd on the help out. Look out for his new Eminem mixtape entitled "Punish Em" droppin' soon!

Lost beat intended for Little Brother's "Getback" album?

2009-05-29T00:59:00.001-07:00

According to Rapper Big Pooh, this was a beat that was intended for the "Getback" album, but they never used it. Instead, Jay Electronica scooped it up from Denaun Porter of D-12. It also happens to be one of my favorite Jay Electronica joints so it's hard to picture how it would've sounded with Phonte and Pooh on it. Peep...

Jay Electronica ft. Che Grand - Hagler

Amazing!

2009-05-23T04:55:00.000-07:00

Two words: Lebron James.

Redman interviewed by Emilio Sparks

2009-05-19T18:42:00.000-07:00

I have to say that it's rare to see an interview that's as real as this one, especially when we have to deal with seein' rappers you don't know dissin' other rappers you don't know. Peep Redman's outlook on the game, artists who released albums in the 90's, as well as today's artists. And he said he'd leave Def Jam for Shady Records, but he's "still on Def Jam...Fuuuuuck!" Wow...

Swizz Beats gets pranked by Ralphige

2009-05-13T10:15:00.001-07:00

This is classic...I needed this.

Rod Da Blizz -Block Muzik Freestyle

2009-05-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

Here's a lil' somethin' I spit for XXL Magazine's DJ Rhude for the Block Muzik 15 mixtape. My dude retired from the mixtape game (I think), but I had to come through for him since he's put LD onto a few opportunities. Shout out to DJ Rhude. Make sure you cop this mixtape at MixtapeKings.com.

Another night in the Dept.

2009-04-23T20:24:00.000-07:00

Damn...Boston just straight obliterated Chicago tonight. This Lakers-Jazz game is pretty good so far with the Jazz taking a 28-25 lead with 7:21 left in the half. And I'm still here workin' on this mixtape full of R&B remixes called "Remix Killa". It's a project that my man DJ 2Mello, Miami Kaos, and of course, The Labor Department are puttin' out very shortly. Oh shit! Deron Williams is goin' off right now...Anyway, here's a remix that'll be on that particular project. It's the LD version of Ciara ft. Justin Timberlake's "Love Sex Magic"...Enjoy.

Damn! Kobe is sick...Aiight, enough...Hehe...

RapMullet.com gives 3 1/2 tape rating to Trujillo's "Old Skool Young Nigga Vol. 2: The Appetite"!

2009-04-08T12:32:00.000-07:00

This is actually old news, but news that I'm definitely proud to post nevertheless. Shouts out to the homie Trujillo and Big Chew for the review.

Peep it...

I got an appetite for some dope music...and maybe some pancakes with a side of bacon too. Some OJ maybe. If you don't already know those Crown City boys don't play and Trujilo is an integral member of the crew. This is where I would tell you to tuck your chain but really you need to tuck your rhyme book cause Trujilo got an appetite for weak MCs.
I say this in the most heterosexual way possible...Trujillo got one of the best voices of any MC in the game. You always stand out from the pack when your voice is dope and that's just another thing Trujillo has going for him. That intro def set the tone for the project but in all honesty, shit didn't really heat up for me till "Eat Ya Food". I think it was the energy mixed with Dub Floyd bringing that shit back like a track should be brought back..."Freddy Krueger in a Supra I'm a mover"! I don't know man, this track has it all...hook, bars, anthem, skills, shit talking. I was def open. Camiliano laces the hook for "Doin The Damn Thing". I fuck with this track too. Rod Da Blizz freaking the horns for "What to Do Now". Shit's got a crazy vibe. The hardest track on here tho by far is "Hungrier Than Ever". Damn, those piano's compliment Trujillo's voice crazy...somebody get me a neck brace. Trujillo adds some variety to that monotone flow with "Whatcha Life Bout". I wanna hear more joints like this one. That sleeper track is "This Is It". The picture painted is deep on this one, Trujillo spittin' those vivid bars.

I think most cats know we rate the mixtape as a whole, not just the MC. With that said, this is how an artist mixtape should be. This is the blueprint people. Dope ass production, bars to match, concepts for days, a co-sign from a big dog (Camillo), a proper cover and a dope ass DJ (Dub Floyd) to bring it all together. For me Dub made this mixtape "street certified". It's the timing, the proper highlighting of tracks that bring all the pieces described above into one cohesive project. Not to mention that "eating an apple mixed with chips" drop they used throughout. I wish we could get more people to listen to projects like this. You gotta dig deep now a days but the Rapmullet spot light is shinning on Trujillo right now to make it a little easier to find that kush in a sea of dirt weed.

-Big Chew

10 Crack Commandments (Labor Dept. Remix)

2009-03-24T20:47:00.000-07:00

Hey, I was bored...I decided to have a lil' fun with a classic Biggie joint.

A few things we've worked on...Just a few...

2009-02-25T16:43:00.000-08:00

This is the most recent project that LD made contributions to. This is Crown City Records artist Trujillo. The Dominican MC from Corona, Queens released this banger of a mixtape titled, "The Appetite: Old Skool Young Nigga Vol. 2", in December of 2008. If you all want to know what songs we did on this mixtape, check the credits. :) Shout out to DJ Camilo and DJ Dub Floyd for their valuable contribution.

Click on cover to download.

This mixtape here is another Crown City Records mixtape that was put together by no other than DJ Dub Floyd, and it's titled "One Way Or Another Pt. 2: The D.R.A.M.A. Initiative". This is a joint that features the talents of Camiliano, Trujillo, Willie Maze, Evil Eye, Gab Gacha, and of course, Rod Da Blizz. Make sure y'all check out joints like "The Blackout Show" (ft. Gab Gacha, Trujillo, and Joell Ortiz), "Pimp Like Me" (ft. Willie Maze), the scathing "Beware" (ft. Evil Eye and Willie Maze), "Gaffenology" (ft. Rod Da Blizz, Gab Gacha, and Camiliano), and DJ Dub Floyd's fierce cutting and mixing skills on Rod Da Blizz's "Mr. Goodbars". Definitely a must listen. Peep the review from RapMullet.com's Chew:

"I'm all for the DRAMA initiative, sign me up and lets weed out these people who have no business fucking with Hip Hop. Crown City as a whole is slept on in my opinion. Lyrically they can fuck with any crew out and they've put in their work. Camiliano, Rod Da Blizz, Gab Gacha, Evil Eye, Willie Maze and Trujillo, I mean they got some shit. Dub Floyd on the mix too and you got yourself a solid ass project.

Its rare that an artist mixtape starts off with one of the best tracks but"Gaffenology" was the perfect track to jump shit off. You get that head no factor and the lyrics straight forward with no chaser. The Jimmi Kendrix produced "Where Ya At" should come with a neck brace. Evil Eye's flow was liquid of that joint too. Gab Gacha had one of the tightest verses of the year on "Blackout". It was in the Rapmullet Trap House Player for over a week, shit is tight. Gab said: "hotter than south Ghana in June without water"....damn. Trujillo got the unique voice and style out the crew. "Hungrier Than Ever" is just that, a hungry ass track. Willie Maze bringing back memories with "Pimp Like Me". Sounds mad comfortable on this joint with that laid-back flow. Rod Da Blizz flexes the MIC skills like the vet he is on "Mr. Goodbar". This is mixtape music at it's best. He said "eat a dick, have a drink and be merry" lol... Dub Floyd killed it with the skills too, that's how you highlight a track. Camiliano drops some jewels on "What Can I Do" to end the project. I can dig the perspective homie.

One thing I dig is the chemistry with in the group. That shit is lacking in groups now and even tho, they all don't live in the same areas ect that chemistry is still there. I don't know who tracked the project but there's balance, no one MC getting more shine than the next and that's important. I can say there wasn't one wack track on here and that's def saying something in 2008. Look for more good music out they camp because the D.R.A.M.A Initiative doesn't stop with one mixtape."

Click on cover to download.

This project here is from Crown City Records artist and Prez, Camiliano, who also hails from Corona, Queens. This mixtape had a classic marketing scheme: Since the cover was a pile of cocaine with the Crown City Records logo indented in the cocaine, it came in a Ziploc bag the contained a white and powdery substance. (Don't worry...It was baking soda.) You have to admit the idea is tight (pause), but what matters is the potency of the product, which is the music. This is real Hip-Hop as only he can bring it to you. Check Diggs-produced tracks "Can't F*ck With The Kid" and "Peace of Mind" (ft. KON).

Click on cover to download.

On My Way
You Ain't A Boss ft. Trujillo & Randy Blanco
The Genesis
Something You Live (Hip Hop)
On The Go
Transitions
On My Shit
My Satisfaction
My Thang ft. Gab Gacha
Can't F*ck Wit Tha Kid
Don't Hate Take Notes ft. Willie Maze & Evil Eye
On The Go Pt. 2
Heart of Stone ft. Willie Maze
Peace of Mind ft. K.O.N.
What You Been Told? ft. Gab Gacha
Outro

This is "The Damn Mixtape" by Rod Da Blizz, 1/2 of LD and Crown City Records artist. This mixtape was released in May of 2007. Rod's debut not only features production from Diggs and Blizz, but from other producers such as Ghetto Grime, Don P of Trak Kingz, and late friend Ron Bacardi. Check the song "You" if you want some adrenaline-fueled Hip Hop. Enjoy.

Click on cover to download.

The Damn Intro
Different Kind
Here Comes Trouble
Don't Do That (Freestyle)
The Promo ft. Daemone
1/2 & 1/2 (Freestyle)
You
Are You Ready (Freestyle)
Return of The Mint ft. Omun, Daemone & YU
Curtains
I'm Gonna See Ya'll
One Night
Huntin' Season
Murdergram (Freestyle)
Postal
Dip ft. Kritikal
Freestyle
The Damn Outro (w/bonus - Get Punched Out ft. Waha and Cole To Tha D)
Bonus Track

This is Trujillo's debut album, "Since 1981", which was released on Crown City Records in July of 2006. This album has a semi-autobiographical kind of vibe, but as the homie Camiliano would say, it offers somethin' for the thugs and the ladies. Production from Uncle (Frank) Diggs, Ghetto Grime, KON, Moonshine and more.

Click on cover to download.

Intro
Breakdown
Its Only Love ft. Suhar
We Ridin'
Life We Chose ft. Camiliano
You Don't Wanna Do That
Last of The Real ft. Camiliano, Gab Gacha, Marly Metal
How I Feel
All Because ft. Melissa Vargas
Let's Keep It Moving
Louie 13 ft. Moonshine
Mo Money Mo Murder ft. Moonshine
Gonna do ft. Randy Blanco
Outro ft. Merari & Suhar