On Saturday August 15, 2009 we spent the day in the Bronx asking those who would know about mixtapes. As part of a larger and on-going study of the history, impact on hip-hop and continued use and function of mixtapes we share this mini-documix on the subject. Those featured include DJ Dust and North Star from Division X, Divine and Dedan Kasimu. Special thanks to our comrade Rosa Clemente for helping to arrange these interviews and to Rebel Diaz for their work and provision of space for hip-hop and thought to exist.
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This is some classic discussion on the state of hip hop mixtapes! All the folks featured drop some profound knowledge. Wise words from the elders in hip hop. And, the hate against that which undermines the authenticity of and power for the people extends from purists who show love for life through the music is a blessing.
I’m really feelin’ this discussion on the state of mixtapes. I remember buyin’ mixtapes by DJ Tim (Pirate DJs) out here in the Bay Area (Oakland, Cali) sometime in ’94-96. DJ Tim’s mixtapes would always feature the newest underground Hip-Hop joints by the lesser known fresh MCs that mainstream radio would never play. He would also have a few freestyles by these MCs on there as well. Well, his mixes along with other DJs mixtapes that I’ve purchased throughout the years has inspired me to do the same. I’ve completed 2 volumes (2-mixtapes) that feature some of the best tracks from 2000-2009 by MCs who weren’t hardly gettin’ any exposure. I’ve basically have a list of over 100 of the dopest underground MCs from all over the U.S. and from overseas as well. With some folks, complaining about how “Hip Hop Is Dead” I just wanted to prove ‘em wrong. There is some very dope Hip Hop music that’s being created in this era..it’s just that it’s underground. You just have to take the time and search for it. Anyways, I’ll be releasing it within a month from now. It’ll be titled : “Independent’z Day The Mixtape” by my homie DJ Henray. My company AHHA !NK will be releasing it. Vol. 1 will feature over 50 of the freshest MCs in Hip Hop. The same goes for Vol. 2 You can go to http://www.myspace.com/ahhaink and add us for more info. Peace!