I’m excited to say that Phil, Alan, Doug and Stu are back at it again in the anticipated sequel to The Hangover, more so because I didn’t even see a sequel coming.
For those of you who have seen The Hangover (and have a good sense of humour) you already know about the tremendous amounts of laughs received from the antics these dudes get up to. I mean we saw these guys go from having a bachelor party for Doug at Caesars Palace to possessing a baby, altercating a tiger (and Mike Tyson’s fist) all whilst trying to find their beloved friend, Doug, yep, the same Doug that was about to be getting married. Anyway fast forward past the roofies and naked guys in car boots and the blood brothers are now in Thailand, this time for Stu’s wedding, but come on, do we really think this is just going to be a wedding? Highly unlikely.
The trailer for the sequel introduces one of the new characters, Teddy. The brother of Stu’s fiancée, and let’s just say he should not have gone out with the boys. What happens in Las Vegas stays in Las Vegas but what happens in Bangkok will ultimately involve a monkey in a Rolling Stones denim jacket, the return of the “ever so friendly” Chow, a bald Zach Galifianakis and plenty of violence. If all that can stem from a “pre-wedding bachelor brunch” then we are all definitely in for some epic laughs.
The film is set to hit British screens around the end of May and I for one cannot wait.
Ey I ain't even gonna say nuttin. And that's rare for me to do. I'll just let the talent and the video speak for it self. The guy's name is Pepstar (http://twitter.com/pepstaruk), for anything, just click play ;-) I'm out
I've never really done the whole "simple blog" post thing. You know, where bloggers post a YouTube vid with a little caption and leave it at that. I tend to go all out with the essays, not that there's nothing wrong with keeping it short, I just ain't done it, til now lol. Came across some cool videos, thought I'd share. Check em up. Courtesy of SB.TV!
First one up is called "Normal Wid It" by an artist named Startzy. Nice hood vid with some good lyricism. Look out for the punchlines :)
This next one is by Podgy Figures, Fix Dot'M and Youngsta and its called "Hustler Of The Year". I can't like, didn't feel the first verse by Podgy but soon as Fix Dot'M came in I got into it. Check it out
In the third video we see Youngsta again this time with Ghetts. Its called "Tidal Wave" and both artists have lengthy verses to listen to. Youngsta took a bit of time to get me into it at first but the beat slyly saved the tune and Ghetts came in and perfected it.
I'ma end it off on a video by Context MC featuring Vertex (Marvell). I liked this especially because it was something different and far from typical. A mad typa flow from Context MC and an interesting, unique video, worth a watch and listen. Vertex came through hard with his verse.
These days in the UK its less likely to see a music act on the main stage that you've seen actually develop to that stage. Na see most of time nowadays they all win some competition or have some amazing story that shoots them to stardom in the blink of an eye. Its almost like the days of hard work are behind us, but not totally, there are still quite a few artists that have been grinding for years and shoulda been at the top way back but are now getting their rightfully deserved shine. Sure there've been some changes along the way, some alterations and repackaging but all in all the heart is still the same and they deserve to be where they're at now. Like I said there's a few but right now I'ma just focus on two of them, ...that being Tinchy Stryder and Tinie Tempah. Now I ain't gonna give you no history lesson on how they came up or how inspirational they are blah blah blah na none of that, that's what Google's for. See what I'ma do now is talk about their brand new albums.
On the 4th of October 2010 Tinie Tempah released his debut album entitled Disc-Overy and on the 15th of November (two days before the greatest day of all time, my birthday lol) 2010 Tinchy Stryder released his third album entitled Third Strike.
So what am I doing? What is this blog about? What are you wonderful people gonna gain by reading another one of Ridez's essays. Well basically I'ma give you a rundown of what I think of the album, each track, my thoughts, best songs, worst songs, good and bad I don't care if Tinchy and Tinie themselves are reading I'ma call it how it is and if you ain't picked up either album yet them maybe this blog will help you make that final decision on whether you wanna spend your "hard earned cash" on them or not. You know I keep it real so don't worry. I've listened to both albums and I'm ready to blab so let’s do this :)
OK I decided to listen to Tinie's first, it being released first and all. As mentioned earlier its called Disc-Overy. The album title seems mysteriously interesting. I mean when you look at it you're like "OK" but at the same time just for the mere fact he put a hyphen in the middle and made it look like two words for some reason makes it cool, added to the funky art work of the CD cover you got an album that is at least eye catching so far. One thing I noticed once poppin the disk into my laptop, iTunes tells me that the CD claims to be of a Pop genre, which was kinda upsetting lol (maybe I'm just in denial lol) OK track 1!.....
Intro From the get go with this intro you get a Drum N Bass/Jungle typa vibe to it. Tinie throws some in-your-face lyrics on toppa the beat which also features vocals from a woman who is uncredited (maybe because she wasn't that great, I don't know) but yeah, its kinda like a warm up to what's to come. I would say that the following track is the real warm up but to be honest I didn't really see a major difference between it and the intro, in fact had I not seen on iTunes that the song had changed I woulda thought it was the same track that just had one of the middle changes. I just think that an intro on any album or mixtape should be powerful and distinctive because that's the first thing the listener is gonna hear. I don't really think the intro for Disc-Overy had that hard hitting effect I was expecting
Simply Unstoppable See with this song it was so similar to the intro in terms of the vibes that I can't really say much, and to be honest it felt like it was missing something. I'm assuming the woman singing on this track is the same one we heard on the intro (again uncredited) I'm a huge Tinie Tempah fan but this tune didn't excite me. Again the first couple tunes along with an intro on any album has to be exciting because a narrow minded person will just turn off before the good tunes come on right? But hey this is Tinie, so we know there's something worth waiting for, narrow minded or not. Let’s continue.
Pass Out OK I'm not even gonna lie I completely skipped this track. Not because I don't think its good. Its an awesome song, but it was released in February and if you're exclusive like me then you heard it in December from the year before! But I will talk about it. When it first came out, hell before it even came out, it was a banger everywhere, the internet was going mad, up and coming MCs were looking for the instrumentals and writing their own versions, in fact I have a mixtape which is literally full of like 20something versions of Pass Out by other artists, both rappers and singers, males and females alike. Radio stations had to have it on like 5 times every 5 hours, don't even get me started about the raves. And then when the actual video came out, it was always on TV. And usually when that happens with a tune, it gets rinsed and you no longer like it, not with Pass Out, even to this day as long as its been I can still vibe to it like the first time I heard it. Forget the national success its had, what about the international success, the tune is big in America! Snoop Dogg jumped on the beat. Now that's special. Its gets to a point where whether you like the song or not, you have to respect it. I'll be the first to admit that alotta the times our music audience can be dumb and just love off tunes that don't deserve to be loved off (e.g anything by Jedward) but this obviously not the case when it comes to Pass Out. Pass Out is music, good music.
Illusion As soon as the beat hit on this tune it got me interested. I think its safe to safe to say that this was the first tune on the album that got me interested (keeping in mind I skipped Pass Out) The instrumental of the song seemed really cool and just a nice rap along typa beat. Added with Tinie's flow and the hip chorus I thought this was definitely a nice tune.
Just A Little (featuring. Range) At this point when I heard this song I was thinking "best tune so far". I always got a thing for songs like this. Nice vibed and somewhat slow sounding tune. The concept, at least in my opinion, is basically tryna forget that girl and move on yet still missing her but not wanting to admit it. I think its one of those ones where alotta people can relate to it, male or female and the vocals by this dude named Range really sounded on point. I ain't heard of him before but I'ma definitely do my research on the guy. Him plus Tinie plus a good beat equals a very cool song.
Snap You know, this song really had the potential to be the best song on the album, like literally. There were loadsa points to the song that made me like it a lot. Once again the beat was impressive. Nice and mellow with a bit of an old school vibe to it. The vocalist on the chorus (who this time should have been credited) had some nice melodies to contribute. And to be honest the concept in general was just really nice. The song’s called Snap but its not about the card game or nuttin, na. Tinie's talking about memories, and the term "snap" is in reference to taking pictures on a camera hence the memories, he talks about growing up, school days, old crushes etc, Real cool. Now I said it had the potential to be the best song on the album. You wanna know why it weren't? Because it was too damn short! It really needed a third verse. It just sounded like the dude went "Aight fellaz you know what let’s just leave it here I wanna go home init" and I couldn't believe it, I was literally shocked that it was finished. I just think it coulda had another verse to conclude it properly.
Written In The Stars (featuring Eric Turner) I coulda skipped this one like Pass Out as it was a single that also got played over and over but I let it ride and listened to it passively. Now obviously I've heard it before and I can say its a very powerful song. Tinie Tempah definitely tried and succeeded in coming with a different typa vibe to this one. I got a sense of positivity as well as his own personal hardship. And the uniqueness of the song (in the sense of being different from a typical urban track) was the fact that Eric Turner was on it. I don't know much about the guy and I won't pretend to, but its clear as day that rap music isn't his forte, but the fact the he mixed his own style with Tinie's to create something new to me is one of the things that music in general is about and as listener and a fan I can appreciate that. You won't exactly be skankin to this song but its one of them tunes you can put on full blast on your headphones or in your car on the way home. Its a pick me up tune as well I believe. Can cheer you and inspire you. Video's pretty cool too, if you ain't seen it yet YouTube that asap.
Frisky (featuring Labrinth) This was one of those songs that when I first heard it I did not like it but had moments (alotta moments) where it was in my head (I didn't like the fact that it was in my head) I don't even think I like the tune even now as I'm writing this. If I'm to be real I think it was kinda slacking, The lyrics were simple, I didn't really like the beat. I didn't even like the -oh wait, there it is, its in my head now. Thanks a lot. Anyway where was I? Oh yeah I didn't even like the video and then you got Labrinth, this new singer who has proven to be a very good one, yet he didn't blow me away on this tune. I don't know, I'm just being honest but I will admit that the album version of the song has an extra bit I hadn't heard before that sounded cool, in case you ain't heard this bit it features Tinie doing a little singing with a slight change/drop in the beat followed by a tiny Drum N Bass vibe just before it goes back to the normal beat. Ahh I guess the tunes OKAY lol. Lalalala lalala whatever moving on lol
Miami 2 Ibiza (Swedish House Mafia) When this first song came out I just thought it was one of those typical dance remix mash ups that I was not gonna like and the only thing that interested me about the vid was the fact there was a topless chick in it. But too long after hearing it the song grew on me. Seriously if I was in a rave now and this song came on I would skank like my feet are on fire. The tune is so simple yet so banging, the beat is mad, Tinie's lyrics (yet simple) just work so well, and I like the punchlines (LOL)I enjoyed finding out what words were censored on the TV version (they really weren't that obvious lol) Its definitely a party track and again, a tune that will widen his audience/fan base.
Obsession The beat for the track had the same effect on me as Snap and Illusion did in the sense that it sounded unique, thumping and got me interested immediately. Concept wise it appears to be one of those life story songs. From what I get from the song, Tinie seems to be talking about his past and where he is now and seeing things as curses and blessings and therefore obsessions. Its not the best song on the album but beat wise its top five. If you've only really heard the "bait" Tinie Tempah tunes then this is a good one to listen to as you'll get to hear a different side to him.
Invincible (featuring. Kelly Rowland) The fact that this song has Kelly Rowland is impressive, because I know not too long ago Tinie Tempah was just like the rest of us watching Kelly and the rest of Destiny's Child singing about bills and bugaboos. so for him to work with someone he listened to while coming up must have been special for him. It has the typical vibes of an R&B/Pop ballad mixed with rap. As soon as I heard it I got the impression that this was a "single" song and had assumed that it would be the next single release. For some reason I could just see it with a video. To be fair I could see alotta the other songs prior with a vid too but in terms of being realistic and the way Tinie's image is going and considering all the previous singles, this tune Invincible is right up that alley, and guess what, it is gonna be the next single. Should be coming out round early December. Christmas number one? Who knows? (well it definitely ain't gonna be Pow2011) All in all a nice song. It ain't no Swedish House Mafia but it will do.
Wonderman (featuring Ellie Goulding) This is my favourite song on the album me thinks. I love the beat and Miss Goulding just added beautiful vocals to the song. Like literally as soon as you press play the initial response is just "Yeah I'm feelin this!". Whoever produced it needs his/her props. I believe you get a hint of the real Tinie Tempah in this song (not to say he ain't real but, the long time Tinie fans will know what I mean) Its an overall good sold song and personally I feel this should be a single with a futuristic vid! This is the typa song you wanna see an artist perform live. *EDIT* They have released a video for it, I'm so happy lol go YouTube that!
Let It Go (featuring Emeli Sandé) For those that don't know much about Emeli Sandé, well you might remember her from the song "Diamond Rings" by Chipmunk and "Never Be Your Woman" by Wiley. Regardless of what you think of Wiley and Chip I think its safe to say that both those tunes were bangers because of this lady. She really has a unique singing voice and went in hard on this "Let It Go" song. But let’s not forget about the rapper on the song, Tinie Tempah. We see a mellow yet detailed side of Mister Tempah here where he tells stories of the life changes he has suffered due to his career with friends, relationships and even family. Most listeners may not be able to actually relate but will feel what he's saying. Its one of those thinker songs. The chorus is beautiful and the instrumentation just goes perfect with the vibe. I think had I not liked Wonderman so much then this would be the best tune on the album. Either with the last two songs Tinie definitely saved the best for last. The vibes kinda reminded me of the "Supernova" track of Tinie Tempah's mixtape "Hood Economics: Room 147" from a few years back. Though total different concepts, it was still the same sense of referencing the stardom and the career as well as the somewhat sad vibe you get when listening. Again I think fans who only know the "bait" Tinie tunes will find interest in this one.
So overall as a debut album for someone who is appealing to the masses all over the nation including everyone from little ghetto kids to elderly ladies in the country side, yes it was a good solid music album. But as Tinie Tempah fan, a real Tinie Tempah fan, not someone who got gassed about Pass Out and all of a sudden loved Tinie, I mean as a fan who knew about Tinie since the days of Aftershock, Hooligans, with D-Dark, Bruza, S-Kid, (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPqGVetjVWw) all them man, as that kinda fan I can say although I admit it was a cool listen, I am a bit disappointed with the amount of tracks. I would have liked more. I miss the days where albums had like 18, 19 tracks with 1 or 2 bonus tracks on top. Also I'm disappointed that I didn't see no collabs with any fellow artists, no Wretch, no Bashy, no N-Dubz, No Chippy, nuttin like that, even though I'd only rate two of the four examples I mentioned (Wrecth and Bash obviously) nonetheless all four would have been ideal, realistic even. But it seems like the focus was collabing with artists who are different and big. This takes nothing away from the album though, its just preference. Sometimes to grow you gotta move from what you're used to. And hey its obviously worked I mean look at all the chart success from the singles alone, then look at the chart success for the whole album, then look at the awards he's gotten for everything, then look at the rotation of his music in everything from background music in TV shows to adverts. That's big! He's definitely come along way as an artist and has grown which is why I gladly went to HMV and bought this album despite the fact I coulda easily downloaded it ages ago and I'll tell ya somethin else, I don't regret it one bit, every penny well spent. Overall I give the album Rider Rating of 6.5/10 (left thumb up with cheesy grin)
OK so up next is Tinchy Stryder's Third Strike. Tinchy claims there's a strong meaning behind the name though I have yet to hear what it is. The album art is ummm, aiight, I mean if I didn't know who Tinchy Stryder was it wouldn't exactly make me go pick up and explore but sometimes simplicity is what is best, can't judge a book by its cover anyway remember? Like I mentioned before its his third album. It follows albums "Star In The Hood" and "Catch 22" which were both great albums yet very different from each other so let’s see how Third Strike matches up to them.
Take The World (featuring Bridget Kelly) This was a goog song to use for the first track on the album, good introduction. The beat was banging and Tinchy gave a flow that was a mix of his old flow and a flow we ain't heard before, it was cool! Added vocals by Bridget Kelly made the song sound real nice. Here Tinchy is talking about how it was and how it is and how its gonna be, in terms of way he's going in life. Sounds quite positive and simple and definitely a prelude to some more good music. Gets you interested.
In My System If you're a regular reader of my blog you'll remember that the video for this song was my closing video on my last blog post. When it first came out I loved it. The beat, the video, the contributing vocals by Jodie O'Connor (who for some reason wasn't credited) just added fire to the tune. You may remember her from the Good Times track by Roll Deep that went to number one in the UK charts. In My System has a summer style vibe to it but can be listened to all year round and just is really up beat and will get the shyest of people dancing. Personally I feel its one of his best tracks since Take Me Back featuring Taio Cruz which I felt was his best release.
Famous This song was done over a rockish insturmental, rock n roll vibe, guitars and drums etc. Nice beat with a catchy chorus with what I suspect is a Lil Wayne sample but I'm unsure, might be an original recording as I can't find the lyrics. Overally the song ain't great, its a bit repetitive and Tinchy's basically talkin about being famous lol and I love the guy's music and work overall but the video to Famous was just poor, I didn't like it. YouTube it and see for yourself. Am I being harsh or could it have been better?
Tomorrow (featuring Bluey Robinson) This song was another one of those positive vibed ones that ended up being a really good collaberation with fellow artist Bluey Roninson. The tune remined me of You're Not Alone off Tinchy's previous album. I hoping this becomes a single and therefore has a video to it cuz I can picture one. Its not really a dance tune but more of one that you sit down or lay down and listen too. If this tune is marketed correctly I could see it doing big things.
Gangsta? This was the first single off the album but was not the official release. It was the promotional release. Let me break that down for you. It basically means the song was not simple, cheesy or poppy enough for the mainstream, too ghetto and therefore not the official single. I personally hate this about the British music industry and the UK's audience. Tinchy will do a tune like Gangsta and it won't get pushed but then something like In My System gets blown about everywhere. Both tracks should be treated positively. The song itself was aiight, it didn't really make me wanna listen. As a tune that is the first thing you hear from a new project (new album) it should explode. This was the first song we all heard from Tinchy since Catch 22 but it didn't catch my attention (see what I did there, with the whole 'catch' thing and the, yeah ok) But I will admit it was decent, bit entertaining with a nice melody and catching lyrics. Not his best but aiiight! *EDIT* After a good night's rest and listening to the song again its grown on me big time hehe. On repeat. Feelin the chorus more than I was before and I appreciate the beat. Find myself boppin my head and rappin along.
Stereo Sun (featuring Eric Turner) The start of this song has a nice mellow semi quiet instrumental playing while Eric Turner blesses the sound with his vocals just before the beat drops. Tinchy delivers hard in this song with some nice positive lyrics, strong punchlines/play-on-words and just brings a nice melodic piece of music for the ears. This one might not hit you immediately but once you listen to the content, instrumentation and vocals you will realise that Stereo Sun is good new music.
Second Chance (Taio Cruz) I was glad to see Strydes and Mister Cruz reunite as I loved Take Me Back. They have a really good chemistry together when it comes to making quality music. Taio Cruz just blesses any track he touches and when you add that to the musical skill of Tinchy Stryder, you get a hit. Secon Chance is another one of those semi-vibed poppy songs about a girl and what not, but it does hit harder than you're typical cheesy love song. Its good music and definitely holds the qualities for a chart type song. The video looks live as well and despite the no-show of Taio Cruz, the song was well performed by Tinchy at this years MOBO awards.
Never Know Hmm, I can't lie, this song wasn't easy to analyse because it didn't grab my attention. If I'#m to be real, unfortunately I'd have to say that the lyrics and the beat were both, well, not great in my opinion. I mean there some nice elements of the instrumentation but overall in all honesty if I never hear the song again I won't miss it. Tinchy ain't really talking about anything different hear. Just the "I got money, I work hard, I'm famous" bars, slightly disappointed as a fan and to be honest I ain't got much else to say. I consider it a filler for the album at most.
Game Over (featuring Giggs, Professor Green, Tinie Tempah, Devlin, Example, Chipmunk) Ahhhhhh. You know I could just leave it like that and move on to the next song. People already know this was a banger. I don't know anyone who didn't rate this song and if there is someone who didn't rate I suggest they wash their ears. I will go on record and even say that this song has the fire power of the original Pow by Lethal Bizzle. It hit hard and does so in every where. Simplest video ever yet looks SO hard. Every artist murked it. The beat *screams* at one point it was in my head for a whole day. I'm suprised I ain't written to it yet (really surprised lol) Ahh, now here's the real question, who did the best? Hard to say. Alotta people say Example. I say Devlin murked it but then at the same time I liked Giggs verse. Surprisingly Tinie didn't really blow me away and I wasn't feelin Green's verse toooooo much. Seen Chippy's verse get alotta hate, and most times I'm the one sayin how much he failed but I actually liked his verse. Cocky as hell but it worked, loved the Slush Puppy line. Tinchy did very well but, well, no offence to the guy be he kinda got outshined on his own track just a little lol, the chorus is bangin though, and the remix featuring the likes of Ghetts, Wretch 32, Griminal and Fuda Guy just to name a few was pretty cool too. I still need to hear the female version! This was the banger of the album.
Let It Rain (featuring Melanie Fiona) Now this song had a nice feel to it. It reminded me of "Runaway" by Devlin, not concept wise but in the sense of vibes, sounds, instrumentation/chords and the collab idea. I like songs like these. Positive and story telling. And the fact Melanie Fiona is on the tune makes it a hit (who happens to be looking hot in the video) This is definitely a "single" worthy track and deserves a listen.
Remember With this track I got the same kinda vibe I did when listening to Famous. It was a better song though. Chorus was catchy but again it weren't exactly a banger or anything I'd like to see released on its own. Lyrically he did his thing. Could have been better but we can't go hard all the time I spose, the song was OK. Nuttin memorable. Unless you're unfortunate to have the damn hook stuck in your head.
Together (featuring Alexis Jordan) First of all let me just say Alexis Jordan has a wonderful singing voice. She smacked it on this song long side Tinchy. The beat is mad and concept just reminds me of something I would write. Its a sweet song. Might not be able to skank to it but its definitely something to lie down and listen to or play out load when you're with that special someone (or while you're holding a teddy bear stalking them on Facebook) Another song worth being a single as well.
Til The End (featuring Amelle) So I put this tune on and start getting flashbacks of the intro track Take The World. I know throughout this blog I've used the word "vibes" a lot but anyone who listens to music properly knows how songs can set off different vibes as well as be similar to one and other and for me the vibe I got off the intro is the same I'm getting off this one. Maybe due to a similar style in beat and lyrics/concept, either way if anything this could also have been the intro or better yet the outro. Song itself is pretty cool, not mind blowing but decent. Although I must admit the contributing vocals by Amelle were nothing special.
My Last Try (Eric Turner) I believe Eric Turner truly showed his vocal efforts on this tune more so than on previous collabs such as Written In The Stars and Stereo Sun. He has a unique voice and it always goes well with the beat he jumps on and this track My Last Try was no different. The instrumentation was nicely done, more of a rock vibe but still with a little rap style element. Once again Tinchy storytells and does it quite well, add that to the catchy chorus and good beat and you got a nice song to bop your head to or lie down and listen to, but I wouldn't say you could dance to it. This won't be played in the clubs or nuttin like that.
Walk This Road A minute into this song and I was feeling it. I was scared that it was gonna be a bit of a letdown but I was wrong. Right at the beginning you hear the Drumb N Bass vibes and then Tinchy just explodes with the bars, and the flow is obviously gonna be faster over DNB. More Grime vibed? Maybe. The chorus was the winner for me, nice melodic feel, I almost felt like I was listening to Catch 22 when this came on. Concept wise I have to admit its the same thing over again. Spittin about the life he lives now, in terms of being famous. But I guess I can be cool with that since the song overall is actually a banger. Coulda been a bit longer but I'm cool with it. It was a nice closer to the album but maybe deserved to be more towards the beginning of the album due to it being such a good track. Single material? You decide.
Aight so I've listened to Third Strike and I must admit, when I bought it along with Tinie's album, I initially thought that Third Strike would be the better album. I guess I based it on Tinchy's track record, Star In The Hood, Catch 22, even the EPs, they were all good, so naturally I'd assume that Third Strike would be a banger, but in all honesty, and I'm saying this as a dedicated Tinchy Stryder fan, Third Strike was more like the last strike for me. I will admit disappointment. Not to the point of "I wish I never bought it" but in the sense of just expecting more. This is why this blog post took soooo long to complete, never mind the fact that I'm a university student who's had a lot of assignments as of late as well as general life issues, the album alone was hard to sit down and listen to properly. Concept wise, alotta of the songs covered the same material. And that’s not good because its repetition. You can style it out anyway you but I listened to the lyrics properly and more time Tinchy is just spitting about his fame life and its only a while before that can become frustrating. But with that said Tinchy Stryder has come a long way. This was the same kid who was doing tunes like "Underground" and posing in the background in Wiley's "Pies" video, now Tinchy is the star. The other day the "Fit But You Know It Remix" video by The Streets came on, featuring artists such as Kano, Lady Sov and Donaeo. Tinchy had the last verse and he just looked so young, his voice and flow was different. My brother refused to believe it was him but anyone who's been following Strydes and Ruff Sqwad since early will know straight away (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gvUkHBxqpzo). Anyway my point is that he came from that to being a household name, having a few number ones, being known internationally, working with huge artists, the list goes on so I won't take a thing away from Tinchy, but I will be honest in saying that his Third Strike album, though had a few bangers (and I mean bangers) overall did not do it for me and was not on the same calibre of Star In The Hood or Catch 22. I'm not living in the past and I know all about making different albums but this wasn't a case of it being different, it was a case of it not being as a good. Its debatable but I know many will agree. All in all I give Third Strike a Rider Rating of 4.5/10
Now its time to compare the two albums
Tinie Tempah - Disc-Overy
Tinchy Stryder - Third Strike
I'd say that the best two tracks on the Disc-Overy album are "Let It Go" and "Wonderman". Let it go just seems like a real nice listen with a beautiful chorus and the instrumental is great as mentioned before and Wonderman is just hip and funky and great for a single release, check out the new video. Top two songs on Third Strike, "Game Over" and "In My System". Game Over was a great collab idea showcasing the very best of the top established and somewhat mainstream urban acts outta the UK today with a great beat produced by iSHi. In My System took me back to the "Take Me Back" vibes and really came out as one of Tinchy's best tracks. The tune is lovable. Overall I will say this. Tinie Tempah had the better album. His CD was solid and mostly full of tracks not fillers. Its not that Tinchy's wasn't good but as a fan I expected a lot more and there were a lot of tracks that didn't hit me as a listner. I really did go into it thinking Tinchy would come out harder as much as a Tinie fan that I am I just expected Tinchy to be better but I was abruptly corrected. But despite the disappointment of Third Strike, I'm happy with the overall outcome. The success that Disc-Overy has received couldn't have happened to a more deserving guy. And the overall success for both of these artists were well and truly earned and deserved. There are a lot of UK acts that are good solid artists such as Kano, Bashy, Sway, etc but Tinchy Strder and Tinie Tempah have both stayed constant with no hiatuses or blank periods and pretty much owned 2010 respectively. Now its time for them to out do themselves for 2011. Its not over yet, its just the beginning.
...But when one says the word "beginning" you can't help but reminisce about the old days and how it started. It IS all about progression but sometimes I wish how it was could be the main front today without having to change or conform. Maybe one day. But for now there's always YouTube, so I shall leave you with what I feel were Tinie Tempah's and Tinchy Stryder's early top tunes that gave 'em that kick start. No doubt they already had a few bangers under their belts prior to these ones but in terms of widening their audience and starting to get that real credibility, these tunes did it for them. Enjoy the vids and til next time, stay blessed. Thanks for reading. Peace!
Hey people, hope you're all well. Been a while since I been on this blog ting, and yes,as an aspiring journalist I really should be doing it more often, but I'm here now, its all good. Anyways, where have I been? Well towards the end of last year and for the better half of this year its mainly been uni taking up my time. Been dealing with modules and coursework like mad, but I can happily say as of the 7th of July 2010 (not the coolest date in the world) that I have passed all of 2nd year and will now be entering 3rd. (First summer with no retakes, go me) So I'm starting to think of dissertation ideas. I got one nice one but I'ma keep it to myself for now *wink* but it'll be a nice link of journalism and music :)
Speaking of music, what's the deal with me and that? You must be wondering right? I'll fill you in. Those that truly know me will know that I'm always writing, but I hardly record, due to funds, time, business all of that. But now I got some time and I intend to use it well music wise. I've recorded a new song and I'ma put out a whole lot more that you will all be able to hear soon. You may have also noticed the name change. I don't go by the name Heavy Rider any more. I decided on Ridez. I initially stopped like Heavy Rider because it just sounded like a mouthful and a non-marketable typa name, but then again it coulda been, I guess I grew tired of it and wanted something more simple and unique. I did shorten it to Ridez though that was more a nickname than a stagename but it kinda grew on me, then I wanted to get rid of the whole Rider related name all together and eventually decided to use one of my actual names - Tijani. Now I was thinking this is a cool new name, its unique as hell, its actually my name and I personally love it, and its definitely artist vibed. And for a while I was adamant that that would be the name for me. But then once again I became indecisive. I started thinking that Tijani was also a mouthful and more of a name for an R&B singer as opposed to a rapper or MC. I eventually went back to Ridez and that's what I'm cool with now. See, Ridez still shows the rider side of things but at the same time is short and simple, not too hoodish and I think I can make it work. So yeah Ridez it is :)
Aight what else what else? Hmmm, Oh yeah! I heard that The-Dream cheated on Christina Milian :-O is that true? LOL what's worse is that it wasn't with another woman hahaha. My dude had Christina Milian, let me say that again, Christina Milian! LOL. Cheatin was bad enough, but to cheat on her with another man lol. Well I dunno if its true, this is just what I'm hearing. So if anyone can shed more light on that then holla. If he's gay, more power to him, do your ting, he's still a good artist, dunno how smart he is though lol. I guess being gay was the reality, and being straight was just "the dream". Lol thank you thank you, I'll be here all night.
I'm thinking of uploading some of my poems or even unused lyrics on here at some point, if you'd be interested in seeing that or you think its a good idea, again holla at me.
OK for those that wanna laugh, my top YouTube videos of the week for you to check out: Affion Crockett - Douche It A spoof of the Chris Brown Deuces video, lol he got it down to a tee, forreal if you haven't seen the Chris Brown original, watch that first! Reh Dogg - Why Must I Cry / Reh Dogg - Why Must I Cry Remix The original is a couple years old now but its still funny, it depends on your sense of humour, some of you may think its idiotic and disgusting, others will literally cry with laughter, check them out please and let me know what you think LOL I can't even tell you what its about, you have to find out.
The next videos ain't on YouTube but I've found links for them nonetheless hehe. Now, I know some people out there aren't to fond of homosexuality. Other people are fine and comfortable with it. But watching this video here, I saw a man who has a passion for disliking homosexuality like never before. But the reason why its funny is because of how he goes about it. I think he should be a comedian LOL. All I can say is I'm so glad these are not Nigerians loool. Check it out http://www.ebaumsworld.com/video/watch/81003023/
This next link is worth a click, takes a bit to load but once it starts let the laughs roll thru. Biggest stereotype ever. Black people happy at the sight of chicken LOL. Made me laugh. If anyone knows this man, contact me asap haha. http://img13.imageshack.us/img13/8619/2204355.swf
Aight that's enough of the laughs for now, let me quickly hit you up with my clip of the day
Just awesome!
Another thing that's been poppin off lately is Boondocks, series 3. Unfortunately the final series but they are deffo aiming to go out with a bang. To watch series three or any of the previous ones check out this link http://tv.blinkx.com/show/the-boondocks/26Z1Z7xZYYgn3YpF. Again if you got a good sense of humour, you'll love it.
I think I can end on that note, don't wanna ramble on. I shall try come back more frequently even though I'm a busy guy :P But whether its laughs, news, inspiration or whatever, this is the blog to check out ;-) Anything you think should be discussed in the next blog just holla at me and let me know. I'ma leave you with one of my songs of the moment. Til next time, PEACE!
Oh and one more thing, for the Eastenders fans out there, ITS NOT DENISE! I REFUSE TO BELIEVE IT UNTIL I SEE HER DULL FACE. Til that time I will continue to say that its that random hooker that Lucas did a ting with lol. Lucas, coolest badman on TV right now long side Randy Orton haha. I'm out peeps, follow me @ridez1
#20 - Kicking things off at number 20 its Sway with his tune "Silver and Gold" featuring Akon... "Konvict Muuuusiicc!"
#19 - Back when Wiley and Skepta were best friends they hooked up with the rest of the BBK camp and brought this tune "Too Many Man". There was definately too many man in the video but it was a tune none the less. Boy Better Know at number 19.
#18 - This one definately had the perfect example of an odd couple, but their differences still ended up working well together as the tune was a hit. Giggs brought the streets to the pub as he collabed with Mike Skinner for "Slow Songs" at number 18.
#17 - I know certain guys are gonna relate to this one. I was feeling this tune for a few reasons. The beat was a lot. The lyrics were on point and the video was jokes lol. Its called "Couldn't Be The Wifey", its by Messy and Spokeman and its number 17!
#16 - This next one is "Ransom" by Bashy. They layout of the tune and its verses were great. All put on one nice beat with a cool mini movie. Can't go wrong with that. Futhur more its Bashy, Scorcher and Wretch 32 so say no more init. Anyone ever wonder well the girl went though? Hmm. Here's number 16.
#15 - The ladies will probably feel this one the most. But whether you're a man or a woman or in between, you can't help but admit the tune is catchy. Go ahead and play this when you wanna 'beat' again lol. JLS at 15!
#14 - The ravers will know about this one. Still being played. Can you skank to it though? lol Its "Stick Up" by Dotstar at number 14
#13 - Maybe we're about to get into number 13. Maybe its by Ozzie B. Maybe you should watch out for the remix. And Maybe its a "Maybe Ting" at 13!
#12 - Everyone was on this tune when it came out. The ladies were singing it like it was a cure to problems and the guys were watching the video to learn how to not get caught slipping. Boy, I wouldn't wanna get caught cheating on a girl like this lol. Meleka with "Go". Its 12.
#11 Mr Munk, Chip Diddy Chip, whatever you wanna call him, he's doing it right now. With two consecutive MOBOs you can't really hate on him as an artist and "Oopsy Daisy" is another reason why. Featuring Dayo Olatunji here's 11.
#10 - Now we in the top 10. And Devlin starts that list off with "London City". Recognise any of the places in the vid?
#9 - POW! Yeah its Lethal the B. But this time its "Go Hard" and its featuring big man Donea'O at 9.
#8 - Big time positive collab here. Personally one of my fave funky tunes. Donae'O, Meleka, Rollin' G, MC Neat, DJ Luck, Fr3e and KIG all jump on one track for the 'It Doesn't Have To Happen' campaign with this new track called "Don't Shank Just Skank". I'm liking it! And its number 8!
#7 - This tune here is a bloody anthem. You know them people who just phone you for no reason. Just play this tune to them. I might have to put this as my new voicemail message you know. Like literally, don't phone me just cuz you got my number lol. Featuring Griminal, its Ghetts with "Don't Phone Me". Number 7.
#6 - Definately one of the artists of the year! Tinchy Stryder. He came hard with this tune. Everything was on point here. Its "You're Not Alone" at number 7.
#5 - And its Bish Bash Bosh at number 5 with "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire". Psst I know I do. Video was kinda unique still. And the beat was banging still. And he's on the grind stiiillll lol. Shullup!
#4 - G-FrSH is exploding all over the scene right now and this tune is one of the reason's why. Dude has so much swagger he can just say "urgh" for the whole track and get away with it lol. Call him Flash Gordon cuz he's flash, its G-FrSH WITH "URGH!". Number 4.
#3 - And its down to three! This next one is beautiful R&B here (no homo) Young Nate layed down some slick vocals on a wonderful beat. I know plenty guys out there wanna sing this to a girl lol and girls don't front, if a guy sand this to you properly you would go weak lol. Look at for the remix too. Clock the Richard Blackwood cameo. Its Young Nate at number 3 with "I Wonder".
#2 - At number 2, its probably the hottest group out right now. The Marvell boys are in the building. Shocka, Vertex and Double S come through with "Make Noise". Personally one of my fave tunes of 09. The verses were hard and there was no slacking what so ever. Eddie Kadi was a joka in the vid too. Here's number 2.
#1 - Finally we've reached the end of the list. I ran through all the tunes that I thought were big this year. All the UK urban tunes including Grime, R&B and Funky. I showed some established names and some up and comers but at the end of the day it was all good music. And now without futhur ado, lets check out number 1. I personally thought this tune was the biggest of the year. Catchy, simple and great beat. It features Taio Cruz who is already a great artist in his own right. Then you add East London's own Tinchy Stryder to the mix and you got a certified hit. The remix was also good but right now its about the original. Pretty cool video too. Its Tinchy Stryder featuring Taio Cruz with "Take Me Back" at number 1!
When I first started this blogging thing, I was thinking, I'ma write stuff about my day-to-day activities. Kinda like 'a day in the life of Yusuf'. I mean, I did that once, the whole bus journey saga, yeah it was funny and it was something that actually happend. I even took pics. Intention was to keep doing things like that. I also wanted to make blogs that not only promote my music and not only entertain and show jokes but also talk about real issues. Stuff that would make you think. Deep things. Serious things. Like, my Facebook statuses in 3D. I definately weren't gonna use it as a place for me to rant and moan about problems and be all depressed, na never that. Either way, I got lazy with it. Since that blog there hasn't been anymore. Spent more time reading other people's blogs than making my own, infact I even stopped reading other blogs. I don't know whether that was down to being lazy, losing interest or just procrasinating. I reckon its the latter mixed with the first one. And when I think about it, that's always been my problem.
Aiight cool, blogs ain't the most important things in the world, but when a person decides to do something, he/she should stick with it if its in their power to do so. And I'm talking about more serious things now. Things like education and the assignments that come with it, or revision, or attending class, being on time. Working hard at your job. Things that have meaning in your life and your future. And let's face it. Half the things that will come under that catogory will either be boring or just overly long. And we being who we are we're gonna find it hard to get into the mode where we're definately gonna bang out what we need to do. Its not easy starting coursework assignments four weeks in advance so you're sure you ace it, even though that's the smart thing to do. Its not easy picking up a book every night to just casually revise for no reason other than being well informed on your subject of study, even though that's the smart thing to do. But then, is anything in life worth doing easy? No. I don't think so. I think if its worth it, its gonna be hard. That in itself is what makes it worth it, added to whatever positive outcome goes along with it.
So its a case of being determained. And yeah, we're all determained, we all wanna be successful, we all wanna make money. But the question is, are you actually doing something to make your dreams your future? Or is it just something you want? That's why its also a case of being hard working. Easier said than done, but not impossible.
For example me, I know I'm slacking right now in uni. I'm doing a lot better that some heads out there but at the same time I could be doing a lot better for myself. Infact I always could have done better for myself. Sometimes, (in terms of my educational routes) I feel like I've just been getting by. I know deep down I have the ability to be a top student I ain't gonna front. But I'm a lazy bum when it comes to revision and half the time I'm on that 'leave it to the last minute' flex. Hear the joke, even right now as I type, I should be typing an essay but instead I'm doing this (but don't watch that I got it on lock) What I'm tryna say is, I know my faults. But just knowing them is not enough. Action needs to be taking. And it will be taken. I'm too old to be a kid. And chances are you are too. So think about that. But sticking with the subject, remember how I just acknowledged my faults and said knowing them is not enough. Some people don't even know their faults. They genuinely don't. They believe they have none. They are 'OK' with how they are doing even though its bait bad, OR they know its bad, refuse to believe its down to their own faults and find a way to blame others or blame it on 'problems'. Newsflash. We all have problems.
Some a lot worse than others. Some people have familiy issues, some people have the dreaded 'love' issues. Some people have problems so bad that they can't even leave their own houses. What is your problem? And don't get me wrong, I'm not knocking anyone's problems, at all. Like I said everyone has different problems. And at times these problems can affect our day to day lives and responsibilities. Maybe you couldn't go to work that day because of that 'problem'. Maybe you couldn't call your friend back last night because of that 'problem'. Maybe you didn't give in your assignment on time and therefore have retakes next summer because of that 'problem'. But what I'm saying is, to every problem their is a solution. Most times you should never let a problem affect your life to the extent of where you're suffering constantly but again sometimes it is out of our hands. But if there is anything that you can make sure doesn't happen, its you not letting the effects of that problem be a repetitive thing.
If that problem is so bad where you find yourself always slacking in Uni for example, then you gotta ask yourself is their any point in you going uni? But me personally I would ask a better question, that being, how do I solve this problem? I guess it depends on what the problem is, and only you are gonna know that (unless you tell me about it at a letter date) but if this problem is for example linked to another person, a friend, a boyfriend, a girlfriend, a family member. Then maybe to eliminate the problem you gotta eliminate them. I don't mean kill 'em, no don't do that please. What I mean is, maybe you gotta distance yourself from that person to get away from the problem, keeping in mind you've done everything in your power before hand to try and solve this problem. Sometimes you can't solve the problem. I know I said every problem has a solution, and they do. That doesn't mean you have to be the one to solve it. Maybe walking away is the solution. But again it totally depends on the situation.
If one of you're parents is ill and looking after them is being a hassle on your life and because of that you're struggling with your assignments, that doesn't mean you should walk away from them. You do the right thing and stick by that parent's side for however long you need to. You try your hardest to balance looking after them and working in education, and if you can only do one (which I don't think will ever fully be the case personally) Then you be real and understand the fact that 'OK uni (or whatever other example) is not working for me right now, I got responsibilities at home, let me take time to focus on this as I see it as more important then I will get back to what I was doing) - if you're sure you're gonna go back to 'what you was doing' then their is absolutley nothing wrong with that, considering the example of an ill parent.
But if its something like, "My boyfriend/girlfriend keeps arguing with me, he/she doesn't trust me, he/she's cheating. I love him/her blah blah blah" then you need to bounce. Obviously you try make it work but if its at the expense of something important to you e.g. Uni/Work/Your future, then na man, leave that now. And I'm not just talking about relationships. I'm talking about people in your life who are giving you problems resulting in you being unhappy and therefore not concentrating on your priorities. I know some of you are reading this thinking "What's my man talking about, I'll never let no one make me lose focus" but whether you wanna admit it or not, we all do. Sometimes self consciously, sometimes out of care for that person. But sometimes, just sometimes, its not worth it.
The whole fake friends thing, if they're being fake. F*** 'em. The whole boyfriend/girlfriend thing, if you don't trust them, then you cannot be with them end of story. For the mandem if its beef in the endz or "money issues" you need to let that go or find a way out. You can't balance the two. Its one or the other. If there's a way in, there's a way out. The way out most likely will be dangerous but considering the way in is just as dangerous, that the consequences you gotta deal with. Point being, people need to stop blaming others or their surroundings for their problems. We all do it. I do it. But its not a ting I intend to continue doing. And you shouldn't either. Instead of bitching about it, do something about it. Lock off anyone pulling you down cuz if they pulling you down then what's the point in them being in your life really? That's what I'm doing. I'm not letting people get to me no more. They either real to me or they ain't simple. And if they are, in my heart they shall stay, if they ain't, see you when I see you if I even wanna see you. I always say 'Never stress over anyone who ain't stressing over you'. Fix up. Get your priorities right and start working on them.
So through all the above I've listed two main common problems: -People not acknowledging their faults, being lazy, using excuses etc -People acknowledging the problem but believing nothing can be done about it.
That's kinda the jist of it roughly, feel free to re word it. But anyway, there is one more problem. And this problem is a huge one, the most common, and the saddest. Not sad like 'age 44 still living at mum's yard not paying rent' sad but, sad as in, upsetting. Its deep. You know what the problem is? People not believing in themselves.... Now, I ain't no motivational speaker. Any opinions or advice that I've ever given to anyone has just been me keeping it real. Me telling you what I would do, me acknowledging the situation and giving you my honest to God response. Sometimes its hard to be blunt if I know its gonna hurt the person but I eventually will especially if its essential. It don't matter how close we are or how much love their is, if you taking crack I'm tell you you're slipping and you're being waste. But at the same time I'ma try help you.
Some people need that help.
Because they don't believe in themselves. Earlier I said how people find circumstances or other people to put the blame on. But these people I'm talking about now, they don't have nuttin to blame, they blame themselves. They send out CV's for a job and get no holla back and truly believe they are rubbish because they didn't get the job. They don't bother sticking to the deadlines for coursework cuz they've already given up and believe they ain't smart enough to do the assignment. Sometimes its just stuff like that, but sometimes its big stuff. Some people run away from home, never talk to their family again. Some people are just constantly depressed and think the world is against them. Some people take their own lives......
See, I'm not gonna throw the Quran at you. I'm not gonna sing songs about the Bible and I'm not gonna show you pictures of Buddha. But I will say this. Whatever your belief, whatever your religion, if you have faith, then you should believe in yourself because with faith, that's like self motivation and that's gonna keep your insides warm so to speak. That's gonna keep you going.
That's the first thing.
The second....
Man up man. Like actually man up. It don't matter if you're male or female. Man the hell up. Meaning, stand up for yourself. Believe in yourself. If you don't think you're smart enough, get smart. I mean what you gonna do? Acknowledge the fact that you're not smart and do nothing about it for the resta your life? Na fam. You do what you gotta do until you're satisfied and believe that now you're good at what you feel you couldn't do before. You obviously think you're not great at whatever it is you feel you're not great at because you're comparing youself to someone who is great at it. So instead of being pissed about it, insteada hating on them. Use them as inspiration. They're human just like you. You all have the same abilities and if not you can learn those abilities. So be inspired that there are people out there doing well and probably better than you. Set yourself a target that you're gonna be on their level, better yet surpass their level. Make you're own level. But never lose respect for yourself and never give up.
Not everyone in this world is gonna like you. Some companies might not offer you jobs. But there's a million other people behind just as vex as you and still looking. Not everyone can be a genius. But that doesn't mean you're stupid. You can still get top grades. You might have to face the fact that you have to try a whole lot harder than what's his name or what's her face, but you can still do it.
At the end of the day. I can believe in you, your friends can believe in you, your family can believe in you. But what's the point if you don't believe in yourself.
No one can help you, better than you.
I wrote this blog because I'm turning 22 in about an hour. (Well I'm probably 22 now considering how long its gonna take you to read this ting) but yeah - 22 is not really a special age. But its just more of a reminder that I'm grown now. I'm grown physically but am I grown mentally? I believe I am, and if I'm not I intend to grow mentally. Some people ain't grown mentally. That's why you get 30 year old guys still acting a fool, or 25 year old women still acting like little school girls. You can have the big muscles, the assets, the mature dress code. Yeah, you're grown physically and visually. But you ain't changed if your mind ain't grown. Everything I've mentioned in this blog is about growing mentally. A lot of what I mentioned above, can be allowed at 16. maybe even 18. But once you pass that, once you hitting 20s, you need to be on point. For your own sake.
I look back on this past year. 21. Its been a very interesting one. Had a lot of fun, new experiences, new people. Had a real relationship, though shortlived, was and is something very special to me. I passed first year in uni and now in second. I hit 4 years of friendship with my bestie. I hooked up with a new media group of friends who I see as a family, and we plan on doing big things together in the near future. But the past year hasn't been all great. There's been mistakes, there's been downfalls. I ain't recorded no music since December, I feel I'm gettin lazy with religion, I ain't been getting the best grades, the money flow isn't great. And yeah, these are 'problems' - but bun bitching about them, I list them, and work on fixing them. And I've been doing that. And in result, whatever negativity happend in the year of 21 will not happen in the year of 22. Why? Cuz I learn from my mistakes. Cuz I take action. And why do I do that? Cuz I wanna succeed and go forward in life and, because I have to, because I want to.
"Life ain't a game" - simply because, with a game, no one knows the outcome, it can't be determained. You may lose, you may win. But with life, you might not be able to tell if its gonna rain next week or what shoes you're gonna be wearing six months from now, but you can determain your outcome. Cuz your out come is based on what you do now.....
So what are you doing now?
Yo, its your life, you control it.
Goodbye 21. Hello 22.
That's me done, if you're still with me, I aprreciate you reading. I hope this blog has made you look at things in a new light and helped you in some way. And hey, if reading this was a waste of time because you knew all this already then you truly deserve a big up same way. I'm out. I'ma leave you with this tune I just came across. I wouldn't say the lyricals fully relate to this blog, but just that sense of doing things on your own is what I liked about it. Its by Sway called 'On My Own' but this ain't the version on his first album. Its a version he did when he was younger, unsigned and unknown. I love it. Check it out.
