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Aloha and welcome back to OTDHipHop everyone!
Photo from "She Got Bars."
How’s everyone’s quarantine life going? For me, I’ve been trying to stay active and busy kicking the quarantine blues. On Netflix, I watched all 3 seasons of “On My Block,” which is super fire, as well as some independent movies like “Moonlight,” which is AMAZING. Anyways, I’d like to remind yall that March was Women’s History Month and even though it’s already April, I figure why not continue the celebration of women? OTDHipHop is probably one of the few female-owned and operated hip hop/music platforms. Being a female is a powerful thing, in spite of the unique challenges we face, especially in hip hop and some of the communities we come from. Still, I believe that hip hop energy (if not, all energy) is driven by females. Personally, I would like to reach a point where we no longer have to highlight us as “women artists” in order to give us our shine. I want us to be part of the conversation regardless. Needless to say, I'm extremely proud of ANY woman that has picked up a mic and spoke her mind, be it in the name of "progress" or hip hop or both. Women have and will continue to represent heavily in hip hop and culture. Of course, paying homage to the significance of artists like Lauryn Hill, Queen Latifah, Da Brat, and more is a great first step. But what about the impact that current rappers like Cardi B, Young M.A., or even Rhapsody is having in hip hop and culture right now? What about female artists in the independent scene that are having HUGE impact in their communities, like Snow Tha Product or Ruby Ibarra? We need to have these conversations more...so I decided to start at my home base, here in Hawaii.
As a participant in Hawaii hip hop for nearly a decade, I can honestly say that now more than ever, there are visible female artists in our scene. I don’t know the complete history of Hawaii hip hop, but I know what I’ve learned and experienced from the time I watched as a fan on the sidelines, to now claiming my space and voice both in Hawaii and hip hop in general. Needless to say, compared to most areas, Hawaii’s scene is quite small. After a few weeks or months, you’ll start to see the same people, performing at the same mix of local venues. Regardless, it's inspiring to be part of this new wave of female artists in Hawaii, bonded not only by our womanhood, but how diverse we are. With that said, I interviewed women in Hawaii’s hip hop scene, from artists to managers to partners and other supporters. While most of us do identify as “local,” it is important to note that many of these women come from other cities and/or are looking to grow beyond Hawaii. However, let this article act as a “snapshot” of who’s who for the women in our local scene in 2020. Lastly, I do want to point out that this is NOT nearly a full list of all of the girls and women that have contributed and/or are contributing to the Hawaii hip hop scene. But each of these women chose to share their stories on here. I also want to thank each of them for sharing! Enjoy!! 
Left to Right: Jehzan Exclusive, Fyah Empress Stone, Sisah Roz, Destiny Sharion, Gie Remolacio
FYAH EMPRESS “STONE” // ARTIST & ORGANIZER
OTDHipHop: What’s your name?
Stone: Blessed love! My name is Stone. That’s what they call me on the streets, that’s what they call me at work, that’s what they call me on stage when I spit and make the crowd twerk. OTDHipHop: What inspired you to do hip hop? Stone: Everything! Culture! Fashion! Kangol hats and Adidas, to snapbacks and Converse. Movies, documentaries, T.V I grew up watching! Breakin 2: Electric Boogaloo, Boys in da Hood, Spike Lee movies, In Living Color, Def Comedy Jam and all dat good shit. Music! Community! Brooklyn freestyles, block parties in Philly, Old School Hip Hop, Gangsta Rap, I love it all. I was exposed to the culture since I was a yute. My bradda was a bboy, my sista is a gangsta, and my mom is a DJ; that always supported our exposure. OTDHipHop: Where are you from and/or what city/state do you represent? Stone: I don't represent any state. Big up to all my 8 islands! I’m from Zion Oahu. Born and raised, "on da playground das where i spent most of my days.” I grew up a city chick. Palolo, Kaimuki, and Waikiki were my stomping grounds. From Mauka to Makai. Moku Kona Ahupua'a O Palolo. Ima always represent that because that’s my roots. I’ve been residing on the west side of Oahu, Mak Town, for the past 8 years and it’s been blessed. Oahu is Blessed <3 To me, “Hawaii” represents an occupied state. But this space, Zion Oahu, these islands, their everything to me. They are my home, my food, clothes and shelter, my spirituality, my people, my freedom and my land. OTDHipHop: Some people wouldn’t even think of a place like Hawaii to create hip hop artists, music, or culture. What do you think about that? Stone: So where I come from, all my homies can sing and/or rap. But there was never an opportunity for us to be recognized as artists. In Hawaii, we can relate to the struggles in (other hip hop) communities and how they rose above that. We write about what we've experienced. Some of the differences include - our multicultural themes, as Hawaii is home to a lot of different cultures. Then, we have Native Hawaiian Hip Hop where sovereignty is a heavy theme. A lot of artists in Hawaii use these different influences and more to inspire their music. I know I do. S/O to all of the following people that have supported me and other artists on their journey: Fyah Island Family (my crew), iJahMango, Punahele, DJ Jus Bone, Mystikal Vibes Bridges, Jehzan Exclusive, Ms. Kim, and more! OTDHipHop: What do you think other upcoming female hip hop artists/rappers/singers can do to make themselves more visible or "equal" alongside male artists? Stone: I don't feel like women should worry about equating themselves to men. Women have been dominant many times throughout history (i.e. Empress Menen, Queen Liliuokalani). We have to work to achieve greatness. Do more shows, write more music and lyrics, practice and stay relevant. We have to market ourselves, be industrious, believe in ourselves and get it done. KIM CORBIN // HIP HOP HEAD & EDUCATOR 
OTDHipHop: Where are you from? Where do you represent?
Kim: I was actually born in North Carolina, and we moved around a lot. I went to high school near Houston, TX and college near Austin, TX. All 3 of my kids were born there, and also where I raised my 2 boys. My daughter has lived the majority of her life here in Hawaii. I would say I definitely represent Texas (the dirty south!) OTDHipHop: What does Hawaii mean to you? How is it different from other places in the world? Kim: To me, Hawaii means family, beauty, knowledge, bass friends, and amazing music. Hawaii has a close knit community and I like that. I feel that people support each other a lot here. OTDHipHop: As a supporter and “homegirl” of many local artists, what advice do you have specifically for female artists that want to grow their careers? Kim: I think that quite a few female hip hop artists have rep'd their cities and culture very well, and have carved a place in hip hop history for themselves. I would say that “taking charge” of your career doesn’t mean you do it ALL, but you can still have a direct voice in who is on your team and the roles and responsibilities that each person has. To me, I think just putting out solid music is the way to do it. I don’t think you should be in competition with males either. Do you, but do you very well. **Kimberly Corbin (aka "Ms. Kim") is a life-long hip hop head with over 20 years of experience in the education field. She has supported organizations and teachers in their endeavor to use the elements of hip hop and hip hop culture as a tool for classroom engagement in the mainland and Hawaii. She was the co-director of Rock The School Bells - Hawaii. Currently, she serves as the Education Director at Palama Settlement where she launched Element 5. This is Hawaii's only daily hip hop education program, which consists of: muraling and art classes with Kavet the Catalyst and Spell1, b-boy class with Breaksr4kidz. The MC & DJ classes are part of Element 5's Ohana Mele music program, facilitated by Rukka the Magnificent with the help of teaching artists Punahele and Jehzan Exclusive. YUNG6 AKA “SIX” // ARTIST & PROMOTER
OTDHipHop: What is it about hip hop or rap music/culture that attracted you to it?
Six: Life is painful and peaceful at the same time, I think that’s how rap/ hip hop music is to me, a constant battle of finding myself in a storm and embracing it. OTDHipHop: Where are you from? Six: I was born in Trenton, New Jersey but I represent Salt Lake, Hawaii. OTDHipHop: How has your experience been, navigating the local music scene? Six: Well, like any career there’s been ups and downs. I’ve had shows where no one came and it was just the crew, and I’ve had shows that were packed out. I’m grateful for both experiences, I feel I wouldn’t be who I am without it. It’s thrilling honestly, I don’t always know what’s coming next and I’m trying my best to look for the next thing to help set my career off as an artist. I can say that I have met some amazing people, who really inspire me and that’s almost as rewarding to me as making my music. OTDHipHop: What advice do you have for other upcoming female artists? Six: I think I’d tell them to be true to themselves and to fight for yourself and your dream. I’d say to speak your mind, voice your opinions, meet new people and show love. I think I met a lot of the people I know by staying myself, and being genuine. People love real. I’d also tell them that you’ve gotta work hard, and to be patient, but most importantly not to worry about anyone else’s growth but your own.
NO5HADE // RAPPER & SINGER
OTDHipHop: Where are you from and/or what city/state do you represent? NO5HADE: I was born in D.C. and I represent Maryland for the most part. I also spent a lot of time in Minnesota. So depending on who asks, I might say I’m from Minnesota. OTDHipHop: What does Hawaii mean to you? NO5HADE: Hawaii for me has been a new beginning. Its helped me find myself. I’ve been able to spend a lot of time with myself and really discover my wants and desire for my life. So Hawaii, to me, means self-discovery. OTDHipHop: How has your experience been, navigating the local music scene? NO5HADE: It's honestly was simpler than I thought. I was able to make connections before I even got to the island. And its been amazing meeting so many dope artists from all sides of the island; even on Maui. OTDHipHop: How do you represent yourself as a female in a male-dominated industry/world? NO5HADE: Honestly, it’s a work in progress. I miss out on a lot of opportunities because some of the men I work with are interested in me as opposed to interested in my music and what I have to offer. It’s frustrating because there is so much that I want to do to further my career and to help others further theirs. I just have to take the long route. ARROGANCE2X // ARTIST
OTDHipHop: Where are you from?
Arrogance2x: I’m from Detroit and I rep Detroit. OTDHipHop: What does Hawaii mean to you? Arrogance2x: Hawaii has brought a lot of perspective and light into my life, being here for 3 years now. I’ve managed to network and meet so many different people & was blessed with numerous opportunities. I feel like it has helped add to my foundation for where I’m trying to go. Many of my first performances were here, at the clubs, at events like Juneteenth & LoveForItFest. It helped get me out my shell. OTDHipHop: How do you represent yourself in a male-dominated industry and world? Arrogance2x: I’m using my strengths and working on my weaknesses. I’m not trying to target a gender specifically w/ my music, I’m trying to make something authentic for the masses. Basically, my goal is to rap better than the males & gain respect. I don’t expect them to give it to me, but I definitely will earn it. Women are strong, women are fearless and that’s exactly how you have to attack the mic. I’m not trying to be the female rapper, I’m trying to be one of the best rappers overall. KANANI BOOM // ARTIST
OTDHipHop: Where are you from?
Kanani Boom: Born and raised on Oahu, Hawaii. Grew up in Aiea, and graduated from Pearl City High School. OTDHipHop: What does Hawaii mean to you? Kanani Boom: Hawaii is My Home! A place where I can really call home, even though I live in the mainland for about 4 years now. There’s something about going back to the island and once you land and get off that plane, you get greeted with this warm crazy welcome. I like to call it aloha from the aina. It’s in the air, it’s a feeling, it’s home and I’m happy. OTDHipHop: What drew you to hip hop and rap? Kanani Boom: I’ve always had a thang for music but never thought I would take it this far to where I am at now. What really drew me to hiphop/rap scene was the fact that my Ohana (family) was "wrongfully" made homeless by a corrupt agency in Hawaii. With that being said, situations of people being done wrong, not being heard or being miss treated (like in my family's case), upsetted me and at the same time hurt my heart realizing this happens all the time, and the Despot/Abuser gets away. That’s when I went to the beach, sat under the Shaded tree, put my pen to the paper and started writing. (not knowing I was writing music at the time) but now knowing I don’t need money to tell the truth or to get my point across. I realized that I could express myself, speak facts and tell my stories threw music . :) I’m pressed on speaking facts and being a voice for the voiceless. #thebeautifulboom #tellem SISTAH ROZ // ARTIST & ORGANIZER
OTDHipHop: What does Hawaii mean to you?
Sistah Roz: I am a Native Hawaiian Rootzwoman, born and raised in Nu'uanu on the island of Oahu in Honolulu, Hawaii nei! I represent the 808, an Aloha vibe! Hawaii has so much space in my heart. I feel like it is a very sacred and special place to be and come from! I have been all over the world & there is no place quite like Hawaii! We are smack dab in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, and I do believe that we exist in a portal where the Aloha spirit is easily cultivated! Sunshine most the year & salt water! So much to appreciate from a small group of islands! Aloha people, good vibes, ono grinds, & an ever giving aina! There is no place quite like home! OTDHipHop: How do you represent yourself in a male-dominated industry and world? Sistah Roz: In this world, I represent myself with Respect, Trust, Loyalty & Love. I live to be the change I seek...so I come equally balanced in my feminine and maculine qualities! I feel like because of the respect & support that I bring to all that i do, as well as this male dominated hip hop scene, in return I feel a deep Respect, especially from the Kane in this community! All the boys are like brothers to me! OTDHipHop: What advice do you have for other upcoming female artists? Sistah Roz: If there’s some wisdom I could share to upcoming female hip hop queens, I want to say to continue to utilize this outlet as a vessel for change! We have so much to share to the masses, be brave & stay real...let it out, bring it forward. Jump into the cypher and murdah it! KAIRA FLO // ARTIST
OTDHipHop: Where are you from and what do you represent?
Kaira Flo: I'm from Hawaii on the island of Oahu and I represent the Eastside of the island. Hawaii to me is all about family and unity & culture. OTDHipHop: How did you get started in music? Kaira Flo: I grew up in the local music scene since I was a child, and island music is actually what I've started doing before I choose to switch to the rap scene. OTDHipHop: How do you represent yourself in a male-dominated industry and world? Kaira Flo: Keeping it 100, out of all honesty, I am a dominant female who has grown up with nothing but male figures in my life, who guided me in my lifetime. So my hustle, mindset, and grind is definitely equal to a male-dominant figure. GIE // BUSINESS MANAGER, PARTNER, AND PHOTOGRAPHER
OTDHipHop: Where are you from?
Gie: I was born in the Philippines but migrated with my family when I was a baby, barely 1 year old. I spent most of my childhood living in Waipahu and Kalihi, but also spent my middle school years in Portland, OR with my oldest sister and her family. But I’m definitely a Kalihi kid. OTDHipHop: As a supporter and brand ambassador in Hawaii’s local hip hop scene, how would you describe it? Gie: It needs work. People tend to look at each other as competition, but the real competition is in the mainland and other global markets. In Hawaii, you can learn a lot out here. Artists who immerse themselves in local culture (whether they’re from Hawaii or not), are the ones who can really thrive. I’ve been involved in a lot of town-based events; I would like to see more collaboration between the different sounds and scenes (i.e. north shore, west side, cross-genres etc.) Going on tour to the Philippines also opened my eyes to hip hop and the music industry internationally, the competition isn’t really just at home in Hawaii. Being competitive would be setting yourself apart from all artists. OTDHipHop: What advice do you have for artists (or partners of artists) that want to cultivate some sort of business in music, art, or entrepreneurship? Gie: Don’t fight about being on the phone! LOL. All jokes aside, you both need to be genuine with each other. Even if you don’t like their content (such as lyrics, songs, or videos), you have to trust their creativity as emcees/producers/etc. You also don’t need to take their content or material so personally; artists for the most part, are just expressing themselves. But, remember that as a partner (especially as women) YOUR VOICE MATTERS. Speak up. If shit is wack, tell them it’s fuckin’ wack! Artists need to know how to get critiqued anyway...and your partner should be your realist critic. QUEEN JAZZY // ARTIST & PARTNER
OTDHipHop: Where are you from?
Queen Jazzy: I’m originally from Punaluu/Hauula 96717. Currently living and repping the 44 (Kaneohe). OTDHipHop: How has your experience been, navigating the local music scene? Queen Jazzy: It’s been interesting. I met a lot of people with different styles but we all have the same thing in common and it’s the passion for music and being around people with positive vibes. I ran into a lot of big headed artist (ain’t gonna expose no one) and it reminds me to be humble and stay hungry because not everyone is there to support your come up. People are just there because they wanna see how you move. OTDHipHop: How do you represent yourself as a female in a male-dominated industry and world? Queen Jazzy: I’m aggressive as f***, LOL. I have my own style. And I’m kinda too myself but I’m social as fuck and I’m loud. Most of my friends are guys anyways. LIBBY DEFRIES // SUPPORTER & MEDIA AGENT
OTDHipHop: Where are you from?
Libby: I grew up in Minnesota, in St. Cloud, which is an hour north of Minneapolis. I spent 5 years in Honolulu, HI and just got a place in North Hollywood, CA. OTDHipHop: What is it about hip hop that you love? Libby: I love the community and creative aspects of hip hop. I also love the 'come as you are' mentality. Fans and artists aren't expected to be a certain way, it's more embraced to be your whole self, share things that may help others and dress any way you like. I first got into rap when my parents blocked MTV in 5th grade, and I secretly discovered BET. Lyrics from Tupac and Bone Thugs resonated with me and I developed a deep respect for the music. As I got older, I discovered underground hip hop from Atmosphere and Brother Ali, and that opened a whole new world into conscious music. Now seeing groups like SoundShop and Beats, Rhymes, Life - I love the community work that people are doing. OTDHipHop: How do you think more female artists and/or women can take charge of their career? Libby: It is extremely important for women to take charge. No one is here to save you, and it's up to you to stand up and inspire other women at all costs. Society standards don't define you, your actions and perseverance define you. Decide what you want and go after it. I think it's extremely important to widen your peer group across as many professions and perspectives as possible.
DESTINY SHARION // SPOKEN WORD ARTIST & ORGANIZER
OTDHipHop: Where are you from and/or what city or state do you represent? Destiny Sharion: I am originally from Anchorage, Alaska but I have lived on Oahu for about 7 years and now call Hawaii home. OTDHipHop: What does Hawaii mean to you? Destiny Sharion: Alaska raised me but Hawaii is where I have really begun to come into my own. For me it symbolizes stability as well as forward and upward mobility. I feel connected to this place on a spiritual level and have so much gratitude for my time here. OTDHipHop: Women in hip hop have a long history, despite not always being showcased upfront. What do you think other upcoming female hip hop artists/rappers/singers can do to make themselves more known in their city and/or more "equal" (or even better) alongside male artists? Destiny Sharion: I think that the best way to be known is to put yourself out there continuously. On top of that, we need to create our own spaces, cultivate venues, and support each other’s events. OTDHipHop: Aside from being artists or entertainers, how important is it for women to essentially "take charge" of their careers? (i.e. as a manager, promoter, facilitator, organizer, etc.) Destiny Sharion: I think it is imperative for women to play an active role in their career and direction of their art. Oftentimes we find managers, promoters etc. who have a vision that may not be in line with the artist’s vision but in an effort to be included in the event we change (or allow our vision to be altered) our direction. LUMINOUS // ARTIST & ENTREPRENEUR
OTDHipHop: Where are you from and/or what city/state do you represent?
Luminous: I was born in Brooklyn, NY, bred in Newark, NJ; but I represent Honolulu, Hawaii (though I live in Waipahu). With the fact the world doesn’t know all of the cities in the Hawaiian Islands, I chose Honolulu as the represented place because they know that from film and music already out. OTDHipHop: What does Hawaii mean to you? Luminous: Hawaii is serenity to me and for me. When I landed here a few years ago that’s what it embodied from the first breath I took here. This beautiful place of Hawaii has brought me peace, and progression, generated through serenity. OTDHipHop: How has your experience been, navigating the local music/entertainment scene? Luminous: Mind blowing. With me coming from the birthplace of hip hop and landing here in Hawaii; the scene here was surprising to me. The artistry and creativity is out the roof with all of the lyrical artists who embody the hiphop sound. Once I had a taste, I made my moves with performing and loving the live scene where we all come together and vibe out. The experience has been amazing. OTDHipHop: How do you represent yourself as a female in a male-dominated industry/world? Luminous: I represent myself the only way I can; AS ME. No gimmicks, no façade need just the genuine energy of self that amplifies my art. JESSICA KAMAKA // BUSINESS MANAGER & PARTNER
OTDHipHop: Where are you from, what city do you rep?
Jessica Kamaka: Pearl City, HI OTDHipHop: What attracted you to hip hop or rap music/culture? Jessica Kamaka: The fact that it represents a legitimate art form, complete with its own way of expressing moods, themes & concepts. Some of us express our feelings verbally, physically and others through music. I love the different styles of beats, lyrics, flows, etc. OTDHipHop: How has your experience been, navigating the local music/entertainment scene? Jessica Kamaka: My experience has been an amazing one so far. Made some new friends, lost some friends, & lessons learned. It is stressful and a lot of work but so fulfilling. You see the good, the bad, & the ugly in this music/entertainment industry. I can say I’ve probably seen it all but that would be a lie. There is so much more to learn and see. I’m excited for what has yet to come. OTDHipHop: How important is it for women to essentially “take charge” of their careers? Jessica Kamaka: It is very important. If you don’t love what you’re doing and don’t have the passion for it, then why do it?! Do something that you’re excited to get up in the morning for and that one thing you want to work hard. It’s never too late to choose your happiness.
OMNI MC // ARTIST, EDUCATOR, ORGANIZER
OTDHipHop: Where are you from, what city do you rep?
Omni MC: Philadelphia, PA OTDHipHop: What does Hawaii mean to you? Omni MC: For me, Hawaii represents our whole world, for better or worse.. It is a beautiful melting pot of every culture, which does not come without some very big challenges. Many of the challenges that exist around the globe, the islands are also faced with. Other places can shove their problems over state lines, so to speak, but the issues still remain on the earth we all share. Then we run into the old "outta sight, outta mind" trap. Hawaii is a very isolated group of islands. Our choice is: solve our problems here or suffer under them. I'm often visited by this vision that if Hawaii can begin to heal and solve their problems/puzzles (environmental, cultural preservation and differences, communications, etc.) it can serve as a model for the rest of our planet. OTDHipHop: What do you think other upcoming female hip hop artists/rappers/singers can do to make themselves more known in their city and/or more "equal" (or even better) alongside male artists? Omni MC: Number one, know that if you have something inside of you that wants to be expressed, that you are the ONLY one who can express that and that you have every right and ability to do just that. Let it move through you, without too much ego and it will be perfect. 2nd, trust in and support other women. Women have been conditioned to be competitive with and intimidated by one another for centuries and that is an old paradigm that does not serve the greater good, so let it fall away without guilt that it ever existed. 3rd, I believe doing something that scares you a little is a great medicine. For me, it was creating an event that I curated and hosted every month for 3 consecutive years in Philly. It is called The Warm Up. I had the vision, reached out to some key members of my community (men and women) who I admired and whose opinions I valued. I put together a stellar team and we knocked it out of the park month after month, exactly 36 events in 3 years. I could not be more proud and humbled by what we all cultivated in our city and community through music and positive vibrations with The Warm Up. Importantly, for my journey, The Warm Up showed me where my strengths are and where I benefited from support. It helped me to easily spot others' strengths and to delegate in a way in which all felt as valued as we all were. It gave me more and more confidence on stage and with a mic in front of a live audience every single month. The event only ceased in Philly because I moved here. We recently had our first Honolulu edition of The Warm Up at Hawaiian Brian's on February 28th. The place was packed. The vibe was lit, the music was healing, and the community showed up with open hearts. Could not have imagined a more successful kickoff. We all look forward to continuing with the monthly on 4th Fridays once events resume.
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Wassup OTDHipHop fam! Welcome to another installment of Music Monday, our weekly project review. Today our featured artist goes by the name “Dizzie Daz." He is a rapper and life-long hip hop head, originally from Baltimore, MD, and reppin' the island of Maui. I met him about 5 years ago on Oahu, at one of his shows, and re-connected again back in 2016 when I performed in Lahaina, Maui. Check out our review of his 3 newest music videos, from the album, Popolo Built Swagger (Vol. 1). It was released in 2018, with 3 of the album's videos dropped in 2019. The album is available on all digital music streaming platforms, as well as Dizzie Daz’s Youtube channel. First off, “Piss Test” goes hard yo!! I’ve always been a fan of Dizzie Daz’s hardcore style, but his flow is definitely refreshing to have in our local scene. The track itself gives stoner anthem vibes, from a unique but relatable perspective. The video and song go together well, featuring an opening and closing vlog/skit. The beat has a hard cadence-tempo, paying ode’ to Dizzie Daz’s Baltimore roots and sound. Next up, we got “Headsplitters ft. C.Y.T.” This is a straight up RAP video, keepin’ it G to the core. I dig C.Y.T. on the track, and it’s cool to see his evolution too. I can see this being played hard in folks’ cars and at live shows. Personally, I don’t come from gang culture, but I respect the “go big or go home” energy. Dizzie Daz’s flow reminds me a lot of Tech Nine, and meshes well together while contrasting C.Y.T’s flow. Lastly, I fucks wit’ “H.A.M!” I like the trap and uptempo beat to match the song. The themes, like most of his songs, focus on the “hustle” mentality and not letting anyone mess with you or your people. Overall, I’m really impressed with Dizzie Daz’s evolution as an artist, especially with the sound and visual quality. I look forward to more that he has in store for us.
Aloha OTDHipHop ohana!
This month continues to be filled with a bunch of different shows and shenanigans going down. This week I had the pleasure of choppin' it up with a young artist by the name of KILLAH K. He is only 17 years old and still in high school, but has amazing love and appreciation for music and representing where he's from. Check out his full interview below: 
1. What is your artist name?
Hey I'm Kala'i Santos and my artist name is "Killah K". 2. What city/state/country are you reppin’? I'm from Puna, Hawaii and I rep the Big Island. I was born in Hilo, and was raised in Puna district. 3. How old are you? I'm 17 years old but I turn 18 this year. 4. How long have you been creating or making music? When did you start? I started writing my own music when I was 9th grade freshman year, when I was attending Keaau High School, and I've been rapping and writing music ever since. 5. What song/video/project are you currently promoting? Right now I'm working on an upcoming project, and I wanna promote my latest EP - The78Code.
6. What and/or who inspires you to write/create?
Well, I gotta say when I started rapping I had no idea I could rap. So I just started watching TV and Straight Outta Compton was a new movie at the time and when watching it I just had the thought of what if I was a rapper and make choke money for just dropping a song? So I started doing 2Pac & Eminem covers, since that's all I ever listened to when I was a freshman, and that's my parents’ kine songs that they listened to as young kids. Also, my only two favorite Hip Hop/Rap artists are Tupac Shakur and Eminem because both are so powerful with words and how they inspire other artists to keep their heads up and keep on with your lives; also how poetic Tupac can be and how Slim uses his lyrics so perfectly with metaphors, it's just genius! 7. What is your creative process like? I just kinda freestyle my lyrics and I use em with my old Instagram covers. But it's still in progress and I just think of new ideas everyday to add on in my lyrics journal I carry on me everyday. 8. How often do you perform live? Please state any upcoming performances you have. I actually never performed on a stage but I did perform for my whole ohana and one time at Uncle Robert’s Market at night in front of random people LOL. It was fun hopping in on a freestyle song. But looking forward to doing an actual live performance, that would be dope.
9. When did you start taking your music career seriously, and why?
I started taking it seriously when I started to have haters I guess. And my friends kept on pushing me to never stop and keep my dreams alive, no matter who talk shit ‘bout my jams. Straight up. And imma keep pushing forward until I reach that goal I set. 10. What do you want people to remember you for? I want people to remember me as KillahK and let all them peeps in the mainland know where I came from. And where I was raised! And what point of view I had as a young keiki. Keep my name living. 11. What is your message? My message is to just try and give my new music a listen and tell me what y'all think of the EP! Right now I'm working on a new project album and it's gonna be a banger more heat than my previous one. Just you watch. 
12. How can people find you?
Instagram: @KillahKalai Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmuNkKCxJWnX2ojlHj7SgWg Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/kalaisantos-930608567
SHOUT OUT KILLAH K FOR BOOKING AN INTERVIEW WITH US!
ARTISTS WANT YOUR MUSIC FEATURED? SUBMIT YOUR MUSIC HERE OR EMAIL US AT OFFICIALOTDHIPHOP@GMAIL.COM THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OTDHIPHOP! MAKE A DONATION HERE. Welcome to another Track Tuesday segment here on OTDHipHop! Yesterday we featured 2 artists: AjGod and Toriyama, reppin’ Kurse Krew from Oakland, CA. We reviewed their latest joint album Krew Entertainment, and checked out their 2 newest videos for the singles “Water” and “Hunger Speech” from the album. Today we’re featuring them again, and showcasing their 2 videos even more.
Overall, I really dig both songs and visuals. First off, I dig the beat choice for “Water.” The ongoing “I do this shit like water” mantra is catchy, and gives off a vibe of confidence to the listener. This track and visual showcases Toriyama’s intricate but almost chill lyricism. He also pays homage to his crew, through different metaphors and flow. I also appreciate the cartoon edits on, which add a fun visual element to the HD video production. “Hunger Speech” is dope too, and actually features more of the crew and city. Props to the videographers for both videos! I look forward to more content coming from Kurse Krew and their individual artists. It’s also nice to see the collaboration at work!
SHOUT OUT TORIYAMA FOR BOOKING A REVIEW WITH US!
ARTISTS WANT YOUR MUSIC FEATURED? SUBMIT YOUR MUSIC HERE OR EMAIL US AT OFFICIALOTDHIPHOP@GMAIL.COM THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OTDHIPHOP! MAKE A DONATION HERE.
Aloha everybody! Things are getting crazy, but please do your best to stay home and be safe during this pandemic time. On a positive note, hopefully we can all utilize this time to refocus, maybe even spend more time with family, and work on projects, especially for us fellow artists, producers, and entrepreneurs. We will pretty much stick to our regular weekly schedule, along with a PODCAST launching next month! Today, we got to review an album called Krew Entertainment, by AjGod and Toriyama. AjGod (producer) and Toriyama (emcee/artist) are members of Kurse Krew, an independent music collective based in Oakland, CA. Krew Entertainment was released last year on all music streaming platforms, along with 2 music videos from the album,
which were released over the past 5 months.
Krew Entertainment gives me hardcore underground vibes, featuring a variety of beats and raps. All beats were produced by AjGod, and the songs/lyrics were written and performed by Toriyama. I think that the overall sound and audio quality could be improved to be honest. Some of the tracks were skippable because I couldn’t really vibe. However, I did find the “Cattin Off” (interlude) skit entertaining. I also really like the track “Water,” along with its dope video. I’m not really sure what the message or purpose behind the Krew Entertainment album is, but I’m glad that the Kurse Krew came together to create it, and to showcase their skills and sound. I’m sure they will continue to improve as they grow.
As I mentioned, Kurse Krew released 2 music videos from the album, “Water” and “Hunger Speech.” The videos are pretty cool and high definition, highlighting different artists on the crew and their local environment, and largely showcases Toriyama’s talent and flow. I dig the hook and melody on “Hunger Speech,” as well as the message of hustling and staying focused. I would say that the 2 videos are also my 2 favorite songs from the album. I also liked the concept for “Uncle Snoop,” as an ode to California’s influence and OG’s in hip hop. Overall, I think there’s a lot of room for improvement for the project as a whole, but with new videos and music already coming out from Kurse Krew, I’ll be on the lookout for more Krew Entertainment. They are currently based in Oakland, CA and definitely embody the “grind” and “DIY” culture of the Bay Area.
For more on Kurse Krew, subscribe to their Youtube channel or follow any of their members on Instagram (@KREW_TORIYAMA).
SHOUT OUT TORIYAMA FOR BOOKING A REVIEW WITH US!
ARTISTS WANT YOUR MUSIC FEATURED? SUBMIT YOUR MUSIC HERE OR EMAIL US AT OFFICIALOTDHIPHOP@GMAIL.COM THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OTDHIPHOP! MAKE A DONATION HERE. |
ABOUT OTDHIPHOPIndependent music blog, podcast, and resource for aspiring artists, producers, and entrepreneurs. Hip hop conversations, music marketing tips, and more. Based in Honolulu, HI, creating global connections. Founded & hosted by Jehzan Exclusive. 
FOUNDER/HOSTJehzan Exclusive is a hip hop artist, educator, and entrepreneur from Honolulu, HI. She owns and operates OTDHipHop, in partnership with 3RDEYEFILMZ and SkyLex ENT. Archives
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