So we've come to the end of another year so it's that time when I disclose the tracks that have been my favourites throughout. As previously, I was aiming for 10 but ended up with many more than I had bargained for....
The list is strictly UK House & Funky tracks that arose during 2010, so if there's any that you feel are missing that were floating around last summer or even December, that would be why.
NB: To avoid politics, tracks are listed in alphabetical order according to track title.
All My Love – Fuzzy Logik feat Jada Pearl
Bad Girl VIP Remix – Addictive feat Trilla(produced by Champion)
Blu Magic – Ill Blu
Can’t Say No – Digital Dubstar feat Miss Fire
Deception – Esko
Ground Zero – Mystery(Must Have Music)
Hand In The Air – Ramzee
Heartbeat – Lil Silva
High Definition – MA1(Karnival Music)
I Need Love – Roska feat Anesha
I Wonder – Louise Williams
Insomniac – Major Notes
It’s What You Do – The Fives ft Vanya Taylor
Kills Me (Footsteps Remix) – Melanie Fiona
Lighter – Champion
Lights On – Katy B feat Ms Dynamite(produced by Geeneus)
Katy B has had a remarkable year. First she entered into the national charts at #5 with her dubstep smash 'On A Mission', now the songstress has taken the throne in the UK Funky genre as holding the highest chart position with an impressive entry at #4 with 'Lights On' which features the legendary Ms Dynamite.
I'd like Katy B to hold a position within the top ten next week so ensure you continue buying!
Ryan gets sung a song of praise.... After being slowly poisoned by his wife who let's face it, was attracted to her because of her twisted mind. But even though he has left Janine in a compromising situation, we all know that as she's in the hospital, she still won't die. What is it about her evil character that make the Eastenders scriptwriters keep subjecting us to her vendettas that have the viewers cringing. What needs to happen to get rid of Janine?
Did you see the massive knife that she used? How did she take a walk across the square and back losing all that blood? Do you remember our dear Dennis Rickman? Dirty Den's son.... Do you remember his tragic death?
One likkle passing stab was enough to hit exactly the right place to do the job! But yet Janine decides to dig herself with a chopping knife and take a walk in the park and yet she don't die..... KMT
C'mon Eastenders, listen to your viewers..... We're done with Janine!!!
Stuffing down another plate of food while sipping on another drink whilst enjoying my ritual of Christmas episode of Eastenders, I had to wonder what the hell happened with the scriptwriter's reins during the creation of Stacey Branning's exit from the square....
The following questions seriously keep lingering in my mind:
Firstly, which single parent suffering from bipolar do you know that would be faced with the task of batting off not 1, but 2 men after it becomes public knowledge that she committed a murder?
Secondly, when Stacey arrived at the airport did she pay for her flight before or after she realised she had large amounts of blood dried onto her hands? AND how did she manage to not get ANY of it on her clothes or coat?
Last but surely not least...... Max left her at City Airport and lives in the east end...... Stacey paid for her flight, checked in, boarded and took off all before Max got home? Not to mention the fact that she had a window seat!!! - I think every jet setter would like to know which airline Stacey flew with because their popularity is sure to go up!!
We all love Stacey and are glad she managed to get away after evil Janine's vandetta against her, but you could've at least made it realistic.... tut tut tut. Anyway, tonight I'll be sitting down with another plate of Christmas leftovers and I'm hoping Janine is going to be fighting for her last breath tonight.....
You mean to say that after Chipmunk found his face in the camera so often during making Skepta's Hello Good Morning video with Diddy, he only managed to spare a 2 second cameo?
Lethal B featuring JME, Wiley, Face, Chipmunk, P Money, Ghetts & Kano.
The track highly anticipated and going up against Tinchy Stryder's Game Over to be favoured within the grime scene, collaborates a number of artist to revive the classic original from Lethal Bizzle released in 2004. The video, directed by Carly Cussen, was also highly anticipated and reached over 50,000 YouTube views within 2 days.
Wiley's lack of attendace has been noted once again and not appreciated amongst the ranks..... But most are loving the video and track, whilst some feel that the classic should've been left alone. Released for download in February 2011, the figures will speak for themselves.
The track has been around for a long while but finally Akatriel has released the video!!
Taken from her EP titled 'Keep It Moving' currently available on iTunes, On & On is the first video from the Funky diva that has done much more than has been recognised. Keep It Moving which includes work with House DJ/Producer IC (Circle), has tracks many may have heard and not realised they were listening to Akatriel's vocals.
In addition Akatriel also hosts more recent productions on her soundcloud so what's your reason for not checking her out??
Have to admit, my raving bug hasn't been caught this year. Maybe the snow and cold has put me off.... After being out in it all day, the desire to thaw out seems to be superseding the desire to be out in it during the night/early hours of the morning.
However there are a few places that may be able to sway me over before we get into what is to be 2011..... But I think the most likely place would have to be City Love on New Years Day. Why value for money!!!
Before you jump on aboard Flight CL1111, have a read of Volume 8 of Da-Mjuzik Magazine where you can find a review on pages 24-25 of my past visit to the event.
Came across this one a few weeks back. With the common thing to be to do a remix including a US/UK collabo I don't think this will be the last one. I haven't heard this track being played much however, maybe the idea has become rather saturated? Or maybe it just hasn't been heard enough? I can see this one being played in the clubs while the DJs do their montages though.....
Well with all the snow I thought I'd may as well put together another selection to encourage some dancing. Just to help keep your bodies warm..... Aren't I nice? lol
So this is the video being talked about the most at the moment. Skip to 5 minutes if you get bored of the build up......
Now somebody tell me..... How on earth does the man bring you on stage, you hug him up, whine up on his front, not to mention the bumping and grinding, wrap your legs around him and then take your big are boots and catch him in the face with your heels?
She just made the best moment of her life, one of the worst!!! Excitement can be an damning thing I tell ya!!
A man who is doing serious things for the Dancehall scene at present.... It's Gyptian with the track that took over the airwaves Hold Yuh. But it's another official remix coming out of the FunkyStepz camp and I'm totally loving it!!!!
Funky and Bashment have been mixed a few times already, but not always done with success. Already heard this remix being played on the airwaves and I surely wouldn't complain if I heard it a bit more.
Only recently posted about Glamma Kid's return and already there's more!!! This time Glamma Kid has teamed up with Beenie Man & Jamelia, bringing it back to the old skool.
Planned for release April 2011
Very intrigued to see what else Glamma Kid has up his sleeve. Follow his Twitter and keep yourself in the know!!
Wasn't a big fan of this remix as I felt there were a few names that could've been put into the pot instead of some that were featured but one thing that cannot be denied is the unity these females have shown. Something I feel is missing majorly from the music scene at the moment so whatever feelings may be about the track content, these females held it down for one another.
Major Props for that!!!!
PS: The behind the scenes of this video can be found HERE
I've been watching Meleka for a while. The lovely lady first caught my attention with her debut track 'Go'. The track was first released having won the HUGO Boss Urban Rules competition and the Crazy Cousins remix really put her on the map. After seeing her perform at I Luv Live I could see exactly why she won. Her performace and voice absolutely blew me away.
Having gained a reputation within the UK Funky circuit, Meleka continued work with Crazy Cousins to release 'Miss Me'. Now the young lady has stepped into another genre to bring us 'Love Letter'. With Dubstep on the evident rise, it has to be questioned whether this change has come in light of the success Katy B has been having alongside Magnetic Man, Skream, Benga, Zinc and the many others.
However, Love Letter does still show Meleka's music talents. Her voice sits nicely over the dubstep drum pattern and can be appreciated. As the first release from her upcoming EP titled 'Next', let's hope the change of genre pays off for her.
I have to admit, Mz Bratt is someone I've never really been able to understand where she's coming from. Her music has made various changes over time in sound so it's hard to decide on whether I think she's making progression while making change. Either way, she's shown that she isn't afraid to experiment and in the long run will definitely be recognised as an artist who embraces diversity.
Get Dark being her latest release following Selecta, one thing that can never be denied is this young ladies fanbase. Is this due to her pretty face, banging bars or both? Who cares.... She's doing her thing!!!
Mz Bratt has also recently joined Wiley on Fugative's next release 'Go Hard' which is released on 3rd January 2011. If you've not heard it yet.....
It's been floating around for a while but it's a track that cannot be ignored.... The original was posted as a track that I absolutely loved. The remix which includes Newham Generals & Blacks gives the track a breath of fresh air that gives it a whole new edge.
Think Ghetts would've sat nicely on this track to give it that ultimate remix kick but we can't have it all.....
Rihanna's performance on X-Factor was extremely hot!! I'm sure many females out there started to question their sexuality....
I just simply had to post it. It's one of those things you don't mind watching over if you know what I mean. That must sound extremely homo but props have to be given where due....
Came across this via the powers that be Twitter and rather like it so thought it only right I share it..... Have a listen and feel free to share your thoughts via a comment.
Don't agree with the University Student Fee protests but at least these students done it in style!!
Those protestors who thought it a good idea to start riots never thought about the power of sending a message via music.....
They may as well have as much fun as possible..... Something tells me that the future students won't be having as many campus raves as the present students..... #JustSaying
This young production trio have spent many years mastering their individual crafts and are now finally reaching a point where they‘re able to reflect in hindsight, and see what recognition they have accomplished and plan for future steps to further their achievements. Funkystepz, also known as Maxsin (23), Stimpy (21) and Renay (19), came to know of each other through their own musical capacities and eventually joined together to become a reckoning force of producers/DJs within the UK funky circuit. Together, the trio have found a niche for themselves that has taken them on a journey that they're happy to continue...
The Garage era was an ground breaking time for the UK music scene. Although many great producers and artists never made it past the mainstream barrier, there are a plethora of tracks which have been sampled and brought back to life in their own way within the genres that have followed the era. This track is a rendition which can be appreciated and accepted as it's own.
Brought to us by Orange Hill Productions (Ras Kwame and Jnr Tubby) and featuring Ritchie Dan and Chino, this track entitled 'Dan Man' samples the underground classic 'Over Here' which was a major favourite on the club circuit and pirate radio stations in it's time. Dan Man revives the original vibe and blesses it with an up to date UK Funky flavour. I'm sure this is going to be a new favourite amongst the youngsters and connoisseurs alike.
Glamma Kid, fellow produce of Hackney, East London, first became a household name when he was tearing up bashment dances circa 1996 with his dub of the Metric Riddim titled Moschino. Going forth to make his stance in April 1999 on the UK charts reaching #10 alongside Shola Ama (also from Hackney) with Taboo. A song that many remember playing to death during their childhood (I know I certainly did..... both original and MJ Cole remix). As time went on, Glamma Kid seem to loose his creative control and released 'Bills' in 2000 reaching #17 in the charts. The song proved to be a subliminal insight into his life.....
For the past 10 years many have questioned where Glamma Kid disappeared to..... Overcoming his personal struggles, Glamma Kid has returned and hopefully will be able to answer all those questions. In the meantime teaming up with Stevie Starr to bring us a preview of what's coming up in 2011, lets hear what he has to say with 'Fly Away'.....
Upon first viewing of this video, I really liked the concept. But the more I watch it the more I wonder why Devlin is so depicted as an angry young man? Though very fitting for the track, after 3.11 a glimpse of the serenity longed for after 'letting go', would've been a nice spin on the video and enabled the 'lighter hearted' side of Devlin's character briefly captured at 3.20 a chance to shine.
Labrinth's feature is also highly recognised. As a producer/artist that hasn't been particuarly represented in many of the past productions of which he has played part within the composition, Let It Go pays deserved dues to Labrinth who hit the charts earlier this year with his solo single Let The Sun Shine.
Absolutely love this track and the video has some great cameos. Never expected the collaboration from these artists but it shows what great music can be produced when the correct talents are forged together.
"When me was a yout, I used to blow my horn like a raver!!"
Recognised in the present as the leading DJ of the UK Funky scene, Sir Marcus of Nasty has endured many years of persistence and determination. Thus making his existence appreciated and respected by newcomers and legends of the music industry both underground and mainstream. Below is the story of Marcus Nasty’s voyage…
The journey of Marcus Nasty started during the turn of the new millennium whilst the UK Garage scene had started to decline from its peak. With music evolution bringing the birth of the Grime genre, Marcus Nasty moved with the times. So Solid Crew were making major impact both underground and mainstream showing a strength in numbers, encouraging a formation of many other crews, one of which was named N.A.S.T.Y. Crew.
Founded by Marcus Nasty, N.A.S.T.Y. (Natural Artistic Sounds Touching You) Crew which included Mak10, Jammer, D Double E, Kano, Ghetts, Griminal and Terror Danjah amongst others, was one of the highly observed crews of the Grime scene during it’s infant stages and whilst blossoming. With residence on Flavour FM and later moving on to Deja Vu, supporters were able to be entertained via the airwaves as well as within clubs. Although members changed along the way, N.A.S.T.Y. Crew remained form for a period of 4-5 years, unfortunately coming to demise during Marcus Nasty’s absence. Nevertheless all members of the crew have managed to settle personal differences and many members have continued to progress musically with many remaining prominent names into the present day.
The downfall of N.A.S.T.Y. Crew meant that Marcus Nasty had to find new feet within the music scene. Grime was now experiencing a decline due to trouble at events and many DJs had reverted back to Garage, some mixing the music with the soulful sounds found within US House. However whilst exploring the House genre for himself, Marcus Nasty found that he had preference to the more tribal sound which reminded him of the same elements he had enjoyed within Grime and wondered whether any UK producers had attempted to replicate the House sound. Sourcing music from producers previously worked with, Marcus Nasty gained himself a wide collection of a homegrown House influenced sound which included elements found within Garage, Grime and even Jungle. Although producers were unsure of the productions, they were liked by Marcus Nasty who played them and began the birth of the UK Funky scene.
Donaeo, Naughty, Apple and Crazy Cousins were amongst the producers in Marcus Nasty’s original collection. Tracks like Devil in a Blue Dress, Quicktime, Mr Bean and Do You Mind were respectively first heard when played by Marcus Nasty, bringing him a new vast amount of supporters, causing many other DJs to take note and also start incorporating the homegrown House productions into their sets. Exclusivity became a major aspect of Marcus Nasty’s appeal for listeners and producers/artists worldwide have continued to seek the Marcus Nasty seal of approval by having one of their tracks played. It is for this reason that it isn’t uncommon to hear the name Marcus Nasty mentioned during interviews with members of the UK Funky scene as a contributor that has helped them along the way. However Marcus Nasty names his favourite producers as Lil Silva, Ill Blu and Crazy Cousins for their continuous consistency.
Although Marcus Nasty has continued to show interest in the progression of the music, it has been heavily observed that his personal progress has an undoubted positive effect on the growth of the scene. Having felt to have reached the highest possible peak whilst resident at Deja Vu FM, Marcus Nasty made the highly controversial move to rival station Rinse FM in October 2008. Many warned that he was making a dangerous transition into being a small fish in a big ocean, but with Marcus Nasty’s love to play music coupled with his intense work ethic further fuelled by Rinse FM’s larger audience, Marcus Nasty was once again a major player on his new resident station and released the Rinse FM compilation in November 2009.
The road of UK Funky has been a lot less than smooth sailing. A highly political music scene which seeks solace and direction in an individual plagued by a controversial reputation has caused Marcus Nasty to feel a need to speak out and defend the longevity of the sound of which he laid foundations on more than one occasion. Nevertheless, the actions Marcus Nasty has made to push the scene forward, has been seen replicated by other leading DJs Pioneer, Cameo and Westwood on a commercial scale as well as repetitively within clubs both home and abroad.
Taking his love for the genre one step further, Marcus Nasty teamed up with Bassboy to bring UK Funky productions of his own. Most common known track ‘Shitta’ which samples Marcus Nasty’s popularly repeated phrase “You Dirty Shitta!” was released on free promotional download and has been seen to tear up many dancefloors. A dubplate special was yearned by many DJs across the circuit and the track has gone down as a favourite of many. Taking note of his advancement, Marcus Nasty felt that time came to take a more mature approach to his position within the music. Stepping away from his controversial reputation and surroundings, he changed his name to Marcus Ramsay. A positive move welcomed by all that appreciate the worldwide recognition given to DJs who play without an alias.
Also known for his love of physical conditioning and athletic appeal, Marcus Nasty has also secured himself a new Nike sponsorship with promotional material due to be released in the near future. Within Marcus Nasty can be seen training alongside Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, who is a sprinter on the British athletics team with huge 2012 prospects, named as the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year in 2005 and is a Lucozade Sport ambassador. As Nike sponsorship is rare within the music industry, it’s an accomplishment that speaks volumes.
Marcus Nasty has gone from strength to strength within the UK Funky genre and is unquestionably the most highly regarded ambassador of the movement. His work has taken him across shores to a number of destinations including Geneva, Zante, Berlin, Prague, Malia, Gambia, Kavos, Ibiza and of course Aiya Napa. As well as playing in all clubs on the homeland, Marcus Nasty has been booked to play at events connected to Notting Hill, Luton and Leeds carnival and internationally recognised Glastonbury festival showing that for as long as Marcus Nasty’s drive remains, the thirst for the UK Funky sound and the UK Funky scene will remain far from dead. Marcus Nasty is destined to be regarded in UK Funky as the same way EZ is within Garage.
We can only wait to see what new treats Sir Nasty will be pulling out of the bag in 2011!!
Quite upset this video won't be making it to TV but then when I think about it, someone did declare to me that it was 'greasy'. Nevertheless I like it's gritty element.
As Professor Green says: "It wouldn't have been possible without Henry Scholfield, Campbell Beaton, Ashley Rowe, Daniel Kenton and everyone else who took time out and contributed to the video! For those who only know me for my last three singles ('I Need You Tonight', 'Just Be Good To Green', 'Monster'), this is the first opportunity to see another side of my music brought to life. If Upper Clapton Dance was a look at life in the bits through a wide angle lense, then this is the ends under a micro-scope! This is real life, by real people. Ain't nothing nice round 'ere!"
Absolutely love this video as well as the word play..... If you don't already know about ASB, Check out this young rapper from North West London doing his thang!!
Needless to say ASB is one to definitely be keeping an eye out for going in to 2011....
It's not everyday you see one of the club/music scenes hottest DJs on the TV showing how good he is with his hands in a way that doesn't include music but still requires the correct application of a mix and blend. MTV Kojo's Comedy Fun House DJ Longers was recently seen doing just that on the Lurpak advertisements that sponsored Jamie Oliver's 30 minute meals.
No need to worry if you missed them, I've got them right here:
If you'd like DJ Longers to come over to yours and make some ackee and saltfish with fried plantain, his number is 07932..... I'm only joking!!! LOL
When the original dropped there was more than enough opinion flying around about who had been featured and who should’ve or shouldn’t have. The original is a great track commercially and Tinchy Stryder has done something quite remarkable as to take the criticisms that were thrown at him and deliver what has been requested. Pleasing the underground circuit in the process. I wonder if those who got mouthy upon the original release are wishing they had been a little more reserved.
Personally, whilst the original caused a great level of jumping excitement within, the remix had me stunned… Go Figure!
This is a young lady who I have always felt hasn't received enough recognition for her hard work and talents. Along the way I have had to admire her ability to continue grafting towards success not being put off by the endless struggle to get herself and her music heard.
How does talent like this manage to drift along in the underground music scene without bubbling to the top, whilst the less talented get continuously pushed under our noses infecting our ears with less harmonious sounds?
Have a listen to the vocals possessed by this young lady and get an introduction to RAW TALENT!!
How many young males who reside in the ‘ghetto’ are perceived as having lost their way on the road of life? Labelled as being brainwashed by the glamorisation of cars, girls, money and popping champagne to think that this is what a happy life filled with true blessing is all about.
This is what Jaja Soze has personally addressed in his latest video but there seems to be some that are in opposition and against what Jaja has to say…
Why?
Surely that would make you ignorant? Maybe you’ve not listened with an open mind? A message cannot be received if the judgement has already been passed prior to reception. Especially if that judgement is attached to stigma and you are in fact brainwashed by the reputation of the speaker.
If that person is you, listen again with an open heart and mind. You may receive a totally different message……
It's no secret that I have a very fiery character, but it amuses me most when people try to take advantage of it. Hot headed doesn't equal stupid. Being a woman of stature and a mother, maturity along the way has helped to rise above some of the situations where it feels I am being drawn back into my hood/ghetto mentality.
Most of time, I would love to get violent, slap, punch or even kick somebody in the face for the high levels of disrespect they show me (always seems to be the people I try nice to for some reason too), however I've been brought up with higher morals than that.
But believe me, sometimes it's hard to not let these imbeciles get the better of me.
Have to say I'm fully liking the fact that this video has got the same gritty UK feel that we're used to and hasn't been glossed over like the usual P.Diddy video we'd see.
I don't understand why Chipmunk is all in the camera like he features on the track though. I think he's trying to get his face featured as many times as it was in the Migraine Skank video. Chippy really does need to learn how to let somebody else have the limelight... SMH
Overall, this track and video are a good look for the UK whether you like it or not.
The hype and opinions that exploded off the back of this track were phenomenal!! Within 24 hours the video had over 100,000 views on YouTube and over 2,000 comments. Whilst also trending on Twitter within the London region.
Here are some of the things that we're said about the video/track:
@SwerveOnKiss: Game Over [Remix] is a different kind of incredible - beat + lyrical levels are too much - who made this beat? I need to shout them out
@SwerveOnKiss: if when playing #gameover you actually wheeled it the amount of times it deserved it would be over and hour long no?
@Shinobidan: Pro green is da best mc by miles on game over #realesttalkever
@PrincessRemz: Giggs definitely took over the whole of Game Over!
@CaramelCrumble: Just heard the game over riddum and it's pants. A couple one liners absolutely no bars.
@BigDirtz: if you thought the game over video was good then ur ah ediat
@WileyArtist: Example was meant to Be on the tune obviously I wasn't I respect tinch for that game over tune don't hate
@WileyArtist: Please don't try it with tinchy it's his song and if he asked me I would of said no anyway
@MikillPane: Chipmunk's verse on 'Game Over' could probably put a new roof over his head...it's been slated that many times. Nobody's feeling it. :-(
@MikillPane: In fact, when I watched 'Game Over' & saw comments about Chipmunk's verse, I hadn't seen that many slaters since I last watched EastEnders.
@GustoNBT: Everyone is gassing up the game over track and I cant see or hear why. I must be hearing something very different.
@TinchyStryder: I love how everyones leaving their different opinions on #GameOver on YouTube... Interesting too see so many different view points!
So what were the YouTube comments saying??
Well most were slating Chipmunk saying that his game is in fact over and he sounds like he's trying to be an English version of Lil Wayne, but loads others were also stating that Wiley, Skepta, Ghetts and a few others should have been featured on the track. However many show gratitude for the beat and it seems Devlin, Professor Green and Example have received the most praise.
Personally I think Ishi 2Stripes has produced one of the hardest beats we've heard come out of the UK during 2010 and whether the track is liked or not, Tinchy Stryder has done a great job as everybody has been talking about it.
I'm sure there are many out there who think they can do better and will be re-making their own versions. We shall see.....
Everyone who follows my Twitter account will be aware that for a period of time I have been tweeting '11:11' every time I see it.... Some have asked what does it mean and the true fact is that I don't know.
So what's the reason?
Well basically since about 11 (ironically) I have noticed that I tend to look at a digital clock at precisely 11:11. By the time I was 18, I noticed that it was near enough a daily thing. Some may ignorantly declare that if you're sitting in front of a computer this isn't hard, all you have to do is keep looking at the clock as soon as you see that you're nearing the 11th hour. Well how about walking down the street and randomly taking your phone out your pocket to see the time and it says 11:11?
Seeing 11:11 has become the norm, I will look up, down or around and see 11:11. I've been drunk at a bar and happened to be buying a drink at the precise time to see 11:11 glowing relentlessly on the cash register. This has gone on to a much further extreme than looking at the time though, the most random occurance was paying for my shopping and getting £11.11 change. But tonight I've noticed that even when I conciously know that I won't have a clock around me and have conciously not taken my phone out of my pocket, I've visted a cash machine, requested a receipt and guess what was on it??
