Back with the second instalment of 7 mins of VII Breaths (002).
This time around, I decided to pick a random selection from my less frequented record shelves. My daughter Iris picked the last record which happened to be Masta Ace, so I decided to start with it,
Letter To The Better
"Is everybody ready? All right, here we go”
From the days of the Juice Crew, Masta Ace has been one of the illest MCs. In my opinion, he is criminally underrated and falls under the banner of your favourite rapper’s favourite rapper.
If you listen carefully, you can see his huge influence on Eminem (which he has acknowledged himself)
And an incredible lyricist and phenomenal storyteller. In 1989, he released his first solo single, "Together" b/w "Letter to the Better". Followed by his debut album, Take a Look Around on Marly Marl’s Cold Chillin’ label. From the 80’s to the present day, Masta Ace has dropped many classics (which I’m sure will appear in later mixes & discussions). I was the support act for Masta Ace when he came to Edinburgh around the time of his ‘Long Hot Summer.’ Album tour.
He was super ‘on point’ live and took time to chill and chat with us after the gig.
High Drama Remix
Mike Zoot / Mos Def / Shawn J Period
Came out in ‘97, it’s a dope collaboration that was part of the East Coast’s underground revival of hard beats and rugged raps. Produced by Shawn J. Period, featuring Mike Zoot and the mighty Mos Def.
On & On
Erykah Badu is an enigma, the timeless neo-soul empress has always been uncompromising and empowering. From social change to feminism, she ‘stayed woke’ before the phrase was hijacked.
Oh my, my, my, I'm feeling high
My money's gone, I'm all alone
Too much to see
The world keeps turning
Oh what a day, what a day, what a day
Elohim
“Elohim" is the Hebrew word meaning ‘gods’, it has also been translated as “supreme one” or “mighty one.”
The Seven Elohim also referred to as the ‘Seven Spirits of God’ appear in the Book of Revelation. The meaning of this term has been interpreted in multiple ways:
Some describe the seven Elohim as the hierarchy of the Spirits of Form and are the creator gods of earth's evolution spoken of in Genesis
But the reason I bought the Elohim (1972) 12” was actually for ‘Twice The first Time’,
Twice The First Time
Saul Williams is an incredible poet who came to prominence through the Nuyorican Poets Cafe and open mic scene. He plays the lead role in the film ‘Slam’ which documents the journey of a poet who is trying to navigate the criminal justice system and his social environment.
If it is up to me, I will die 1000 times in an hour and live seven minutes later
- Saul Williams
Best Foot Forward
DJ Shadow’s Endtroducing is considered a masterpiece of sample-based instrumental hip-hop. The album is critically acclaimed and will send you down the rabbit hole of creativity and experimentalism.
I'm Gonna Love You Just A Little More Babe
Those unfamiliar with Jimmy Smith and Jazz-Funk sound may have heard the sample used by Tyler the Creator on Manifesto:
(Beastie Boys also used the drums for Professor Booty)
Sir Duke
Stevie Wonder is a Bonafide, 100% Musical Genius.
I’ll be revisiting my love for Stevie at a later date, but The Wonder of Stevie explores his phenomenal life in all its glorious detail:
From Stevie Wonder’s iconic 1976 double LP, “Songs in the Key of Life.” Sir Duke is a tribute to Duke Ellington, who passed away in 1974.
Music is a world within itself
With a language we all understand
With an equal opportunity
For all to sing, dance and clap their hands
Enjoy the music, You can feel it all over.
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