Any time you talk about AZ, you have to start by bringing up his unforgettable verse on Nas’ Illimatic some 14 years ago.  While that indelible verse is a classic hip hop moment, the mere fact that you have to reference it every time says something about what AZ has been up to since then. [cont.]

There was a time when Ras Kass was considered something like the West Coast Nas – a street, but cerebral and intellectual MC, naming albums after Eldridge Cleaver books (Soul on Ice) and doing songs about the history of slavery and religion (“Nature of the Threat”).  He also had major skills, making him a compelling [cont.]

I have an affinity for legends who continue their careers beyond their primes.  I liked it when Jordan came back in his forties.  I’m glad Favre is going to play another year.  Shaq’s not what he used to be, but he’s still worth having around.  The thing is when a legend plays until he’s entirely [cont.]

“It’s been about four years now.  I’ve been through a lot.” That’s how Ashanti’s new album, The Declaration, starts out.  While she’s been going through it, the airwaves have been dominated by the likes of Alicia Keys, Mariah Carey and Rihanna.  Leaving us to wonder, where does Ashanti fit in?  What can she offer that the [cont.]

Trying to come up with a list of great female MCs is a little bit like trying to name the best white American players in the NBA.  If you can name five who are even decent, you’ve accomplished something.  Obviously there’s Lauryn Hill (that is, when “her heart still was in rhymin’”), and she’s better [cont.]

The thing you have to realize when listening to Tyga’s No Introduction is that it’s essentially children’s music.  Okay, not children, but teenagers.  It’s for kids.  This is fitting since the 18-year-old Tyga is barely out of high school himself.  Granted, there isn’t that much difference these days between the social lives of those in [cont.]

Pace Won first got notice with a guest spot on The Fugees’ The Score back in 1996.  That’s right, 12 years ago.  Dude’s been around for a minute.  He served as one of the front men for the group The Outsidaz and if you’re wondering where he’s been or surprised he’s still around, it’s been [cont.]