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It’s been just over 12 months since “The Donald” pulled off the deal of his life and kissed the pentagram at the crossroads…”Satan, great guy, Cambions, good people, it’s gonna be beautiful…“…but despite clearly not being in the presence of a responsible adult while airing his views on social media, the planet is at least still here (at the time of writing).

2017 has been another busy one for us and the wider hip hop world. As 2018 approaches, we’ve listed below albums released this year we’d recommend for the hip hop connoisseur – a mixture of those we have promoted together with some other gems.

ZOtheJERK & FROST GAMBLE – ALBUM – “BLACK BEACH” released on May 26th

The first of several projects spearheaded this year by one of the fastest emerging names in hip hop production Frost Gamble, originally from NY State but now resident in Winnipeg. The concept is similar in approach to artists such as Constant Deviants and Run the Jewels or several collaborative releases in recent years from Apollo Brown, Statik Selektah and DJ Premier.

The album “Black Beach” with Detroit rapper ZotheJerk is rammed full of passionate conscious rhymes, a depiction of the current experience for “Black America” addressing subjects of oppression, injustices, police brutality, aspirations and the importance of positive paternal role models.

The politics are well balanced with a healthy slice of humour by the Michigan MC who appeared as an extra in “8 Mile”, worked closely with the late Proof of D12 and received a “Humanitarian of the Year” award for mentoring work in the community.

Guest featured artists include Boldy James, Sadat X, Guilty Simpson and KXNG Crooked.

Available on digital formats from Amazon, iTunes and Spotify

The exclusive deluxe edition can be bought and streamed on Bandcamp

TONE CHOP & FROST GAMBLE – ALBUM – “RESPECT IS EARNED NOT GIVEN” released on September 29th

Chop & Frost are long time sparring partners from their days together during the 90’s in Binghamton, NY, and the new album was the follow up to their debut EP release “Veteran” late in 2016.

Both devotees to the origins of the culture, ex graff artist Chop cut his teeth in the local rap battle scene and is armed with a sharp wit, fierce punchline bars and incisive metaphors. The album’s themes switch seemlessly from trademark demoltion mode to the art of storytelling throughout, aided and abetted by guest featured artists Kool G Rap, Planet Asia, rap battler DNA, Tragedy Khadafi and Canadian upcomer White Rhino.

Ex b-boy Frost again laces the release with high quality sample fuelled beats infused with soul, funk, r&b, dub and electronica, producing a rich soundscape drawn from a classic era with contemporary values.

Available on CD and digital formats from Amazon, iTunes and Spotify

It can also be bought and streamed from Bandcamp

In October, Frost followed up with another buzz release in the shape of his EP “Rare Fabric”, another collaboration this time with Tragedy Khadafi. Again available from Bandcamp

He has also released the first single from his new solo producer album “I Missed My Bus”. Due out in 2018 and including guest featured artists Rah Digga, KXNG Crooked, Skyzoo, Guilty Simpson, Ruste Juxx, Conway the Machine, Planet Asia, Sadat X and of course his Nostalgia Clic crew of Zo, Chop & White Rhino, “Effin Great” featuring Ras Kass is another available from the label 22 Entertainment’s Bandcamp

DA FLYY HOOLIGAN – ALBUM – “S.C.U.M.” released on October 27th

One of the most gifted and creative artists in the UK hip hop scene for several years, north west London rapper brought his lyrical “A” game to the table on his new album “S.C.U.M.”, the follow up to his EP “F.Y.L.P.M.” released earlier in the year.

A cathartic indulgence to liberate the soul, the suave sophistication of this latest offering addresses all things aspirational. Bullish rhymes throw off the shackles in a journey through the human condition in a series of charismatic portrayals in the pursuit of a life less ordinary.

With lavish production provided by the UK’s Agor, DFH showcases all the suprior verbal prowess in his armoury, joined by guest featured artists Hus Kingpin and new Shady signing Westside Gunn for a combination of antagonistic grimy bars and uncomprimising rhymes.

Available in CD and digital formats from Amazon, iTunes and Spotify

Buy and stream on Bandcamp

HONOURABLE MENTIONS

MELANIN 9 – ALBUM – “OLD PICTURES” Released October 27th

Another extremely gifted and highly respected lyricist from north London we’ve worked with several times in the past, not least on the critically acclaimed “Magna Carta” album of 2013.

We heard from M9 earlier in the year and were delighted to learn of his progression and tie up with a European label for the release of “Old Pictures”. An artist who meticulously takes the time to ensure everything’s ready to come to the table, but it’s always worth the wait when it does.

SHAYJTODAY – ALBUM – “val{you}” – released December

A highly talented rapper from Florida we think could have a big future.

We were introduced to the name a few weeks ago by his management team and were highly impressed by the quality of lyricism and production on this release which is very much contemporary but intelligently mixed with classic reference points.

From beginning to end it’s an extremely well constructed and thought out piece of work which in itself is rare and refreshing to hear. We understand a move to Europe is on the cards with a possible date in London pencilled in for Spring 2018

Available on iTunes and Spotify

Buy & stream on Bandcamp

HORSESHOE GANG – ALBUM – “DOPE LYRICS MATTER” – released December

Not a lot more we can say about these guys, they’re lyrically lethal !

Not that it should be a surprise given they’re the younger brothers of KXNG Crooked, we worked with them last year on their album “Anti Trap Music” and they’ve just dropped an absolute barnstormer in “Dope Lyrics Matter”.

They clearly do, just as with all the releases highlighted here today

Available from Amazon, iTunes and Spotify

Buy and stream on Bandcamp

Enjoy the dope beats & rhymes, and if you like ’em, buy ’em !

Our contact information details are available HERE should media have any enquiries regarding the artists.

UrbanElite PR would like to thank everyone for their support this year, and we wish you all the best for 2018.

UrbanElite PR
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The past few years have proven to be an exceptionally busy and productive time for us, not least due to our various activities evolving beyond the original UK and European marketplaces.

This natural expansion developed over 5 years means we also now operate within the United States, Canada and Australia in addition to some further residual territories.

Simultaneously we streamlined some aspects of our promotional services which are now concentric around core products, typically EP’s and albums incorporating any affiliated singles or videos. In turn, this enabled us to provide further logistical support assistance for our clients which has regularly proven highly beneficial given we predominantly operate within the independent sector often working with new, emerging and developing artists and labels.

Handling publicity for an established artist is very different in nature to that of a new or emerging name, as are the promotional procedures.

Having worked with both categories for over a decade, and with a more re-alligned focus on the latter, our experience means we understand the multiple factors which media will consider in their decision making processes.

Consequently the additional guidance, assistance and support we regularly provide has proven pivotal in consistently securing a high turnover of coverage and airplay internationally, irrespective of an artist’s original perceived standing.

Our re-structure also means that while hip hop and rap music has diversified and become in itself multi-genre, by specializing in defined niche markets we ensure your music is provided to the most appropriate targets.

While our main site page is updated primarily with news of ongoing campaigns such as new published coverage, reviews, interviews and general release information, the pages provide all the details you would require to gain a clear understanding of all the services we provide, and the marketplace within which we operate. They are linked below as follows :

PREVIOUS MEDIA CAMPAIGNS

Recommended for those wishing to understand the full range of services we provide, this section includes summaries of the activity we undertook for select cases with a particular focus on campaigns involving new and independent emerging artists, the logistical assistance provided and resultant media coverage.

SINGLES PROMOTED

Now always affiliated to an ongoing EP or album campaign, this section has music content as a guide to the style we most commonly promote. Similarly the ARTIST VIDEOS : MUSIC & INTERVIEWS section has a mix of official music videos together with media and radio interviews we arranged.

MAGAZINES & PRESS

This section contains snapshots of media coverage secured for select campaigns. Most of the artists we’ve worked with are listed HERE

These pages have been designed to answer the questions we are most commonly asked, however if you would require any more information, our contact details are available HERE

UrbanElite PR
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One of the most creative and gifted lyricists to emerge from London’s burgeoning rap scene, Da Flyy Hooligan released his new album “S.C.U.M.” on October 27th.

In a rare step for a British hip hop artist, he signed with a US label in the shape of 22 Entertainment for the release which also includes guest featured artists Westside Gunn and Hus Kingpin.

“S.C.U.M.” is available to buy on both CD and digital formats from multiple online stores worldwide including Amazon, Bandcamp, iTunes and Spotify

French online magazine “Sagi Hip Hop” has just published a new 4 star review reflecting the quality of the production by Agor, compared in style to The Alchemist, and the fierce rhyme skills of Harlesden’s finest.

READ THE ARTICLE IN FULL, WITH ENGLISH TRANSLATION AVAILABLE, HERE

Taken from the album are the videos “Asantihini” and most recently “Alligator Skin”

He also gave his first interview in two years recently, speaking about his career, artistic and album concepts, and described in detail his long standing bond with the late Sean Price.

The album stream is also available to hear on Soundcloud

Connect with Da Flyy Hooligan on social media via Twitter, Instagram and Facebook

All international media, press and radio station enquiries regarding Da Flyy Hooligan and his new album “S.C.U.M.” can be sent to us at UrbanElite PR. Our contact information details are available HERE

UrbanElite PR
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North west London rapper Da Flyy Hooligan released his new album “S.C.U.M.” on October 27th through US label 22 Entertainment.

Produced entirely by the UK’s Agor and featuring Westside Gunn & Hus Kingpin, it is available on CD and digital formats from multiple stores worldwide including Amazon, Bandcamp, iTunes and Spotify.

Long regarded as one of the most creative and gifted lyricists in the British rap scene, his reputation is particularly strong for the quality of his live shows, and there are two upcoming opportunities to see him perform in London this month

First is this Saturday November 11th when he teams up with DJ Snips and the boys to host Livin Proof’s 10th Birthday Bash when the special guests will be Stretch Armstrong and The Alchemist.

The night runs from 10pm – 4am at Oval Space, 29 – 32 The Oval, London E2 9DT with further ticket and general information available at www.livinproof.co.uk

Then on Friday November 17th he will be on stage with DJ Madhandz and the rest of the “Hip Hop Back in the Day” crew performing tracks from the new album at Arch Space, 340 Acton Mews, Haggerston, London E8 4EA.

Open from 7pm – 11pm, ticket and further information is available at www.hhbitd.com

LISTEN TO THE FULL “S.C.U.M.” ALBUM STREAM ON BANDCAMP

Connect with Da Flyy Hooligan on social media via Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, and look out for new album reviews and the release of a new video “Aligator Skin” soon.

All international press and media enquiries regarding Da Flyy Hooligan and the new album “S.C.U.M.” can be sent to us at UrbanElite PR. All our contact information is available HERE

UrbanElite PR
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Under previous incarnations, Miami based 22 Entertainment operated as a record label, distribution partner and production company releasing a wide range of urban and rock genres.

Notable landmarks includes their involvement in assisting the early development of what would become rap supergroup Slaughterhouse, and in 2011 they released Royce da 5’9″‘s “Success Is Certain”, the most successful independent rap album of that year.

A restructure and re-brand in the past year has seen the label sign a worldwide physical and digital distribution deal with Sony’s “The Orchard” who recently took over Sony Red’s operations. Musically the label continue to nurture new emerging rap and hip hop talent balanced with releases by established names, and they have also made the move into the huge worldwide phenomenon that is “ASMR” via their Dreamscapes series, music and sounds to assist with relaxation and sleep.

In the past few months they’ve added their own presence to online digital store Bandcamp.

Much of their back catalogue has been made available, releases by Fashawn, Royce da 5’9″, Crooked I (KXNG Crooked), Chingy, Horseshoe Gang, J-Kwon, Joe Budden, Stat Quo, Kid Vishis and of course several of their Dreamscapes series.

You can visit their store HERE Their most recent and forthcoming releases include the following :

RAMPAGE – “THE PAYBACK”

Available to buy now, the Flipmode veteran returns with a themed release, the production by Felony Muzik acting as a pastiche of a 70’s cop flick, the superior classic soul and rnb samples providing the soundtrack to a journey through the streets’ underbelly

TONE CHOP & FROST GAMBLE – “RESPECT IS EARNED NOT GIVEN”

Releasing on September 29th and available to pre-order, it’s the latest from the label’s in house producer signing Frost Gamble whose star has risen quickly in the past year. This time he’s teamed up with old sparring partner, NY state rapper Tone Chop to deliver the real deal in hip hop; rhymes, bars and beats for days aided and abetted by featured artists Kool G Rap, Planet Asia, Canadian upcome White Rhino, Tragedy Khadafi and rap battling sensation D.N.A.

TRAGEDY KHADAFI & FROST GAMBLE – “RARE FABRIC” EP

Releasing October 20th and available to pre-order, it’s another from the eastcoast beatmaker, this time with Queens’ veteran rapper Tragedy Khadafi. The recording was only completed earlier this month and precedes a new solo project coming soon from Frost Gamble which includes guest featured artists Rah Digga, Ras Kass, Skyzoo, KXNG Crooked, Ruste Juxx, Guilty Simpson and many more….futher details to follow

DA FLYY HOOLIGAN – “S.C.U.M.”

Releasing October 27th and available to pre-order, it’s the new album by north west London rapper Da Flyy Hooligan, long regarded as one of the most gifted and creative lyricists within the burgeoning UK rap scene. DFH also spent time based in NYC becoming part of J-Ronin’s “All Elements” movement, and went on to record with Sav Killz, Prince Po, M1 of Dead Prez, Hasan Salaam, D.V Alias Khryst and the late Sean P. The new album features US luminaries Westside Gunn and Hus Kingpin.

You can keep up to date with news on the most recent single, EP and album releases via 22 Entertainment’s twitter feed @22Entertainmen

All international media, press and radio station enquiries regarding 22 Entertainment and the associated releases can be sent to us at UrbanElite PR. Our contact information is available HERE

UrbanElite PR
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We’ve had the pleasure of promoting singles and albums by many artists from the US, Canada and UK over the past decade and more.

Some were already well known and others less so initially, but they all share one thing in common….damn they can spit and make bangin’ beats !

We were looking through our Soundcloud page yesterday which hosts some of their singles and album streams, and decided to put together a little compilation for your listening pleasure. One for the Hip Hop connoisseurs of gritty rhymes, superior lyricism, classic production and a healthy dose of turntablism thrown into the mix for good measure.

TRACKLIST

Tone Chop & Frost Gamble ft Kool G Rap “Walk the Walk”
Constant Deviants “So Underrated”
ZotheJerk & Frost Gamble ft Sadat X “Risk vs Reward”
Horseshoe Gang “Shoe-icide Squad”
050 Boyz “Watch That (Bricks Mix)”
Iron Braydz ft Prince Po “Millennium”
Matt Maddox ft Tragedy Khadafi “Street Art”
Ultramagnetic MCs “Let the Bars Go”
Vast Aire ft Cappadonna “I Dont Care (radio edit)”
Kuniva of D12 “Gut Shots 3 (radio edit)”

CLICK PLAY ON THE STREAM !!

Each track’s stream contains the story behind the record in the notes and the various artists’ social media details, so you can always connect with them and hear more of their music.

Radio & club DJs who would like a full quality mp3 (320) of the dirty or clean versions of any these tracks for their sets or shows can request them from us at UrbanElite PR. Our contact information is available HERE

Enjoy!

UrbanElite PR
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merch

Eastcoast hip hop duo Constant Deviants released their album “Omerta” earlier this year through Six2Six Records.

They have just been chosen for a merchandise campaign by British Clothing Manufacturer & Distributor “Everpress” for an exclusive limited edition set of sweatshirts and t-shirts. The campaign is for a limited period only, ending on November 25th with delivery dates expected to be December 5th.

If you would like to own an extremely rare piece of hip hop merchandise, especially with Xmas fast approaching, go now while stocks last and order online HERE

While doing so, check out the official “Omerta” album stream – it’s available on digital, CD and vinyl formats worldwide.

You can connect with Constant Deviants on FACEBOOK and TWITTER

All press & media inquiries about the group can be sent to us at UrbanElite PR. All our contact information is HERE

UrbanElite PR
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veteran-blacksheep

NY State rapper Tone Chop and Winnipeg based producer Frost Gamble have their first official collaboration releasing on November 18th. The 7 track “Veteran” Ep is available to pre-order on iTunes through Seven 13 Music & Entertainment

The pair have been connected since the 90’s when originally as rap battle rivals they came together as partners in rhyme and tagging in Binghamton before Frost’s re-location. Chop’s released numerous mixtapes over the past decade which included collabroations with Jinx da Juvy, Tom Gist and St Laz, while Frost, now fully focused on production has worked with Sadat-X, Rakim’s son Tahmell, J-Ro, ZotheJerk and the award winning Fresh I.E.

The EP has that distinct feel of the Golden Era while retaining a sense of the modern age, a fact picked up by Andrew Kay in his review which has afforded the release a 5 Star rating in Blacksheep Magazine.

READ THE REVIEW IN FULL HERE

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Look out for new audio and video releases by the duo shortly, beginning with a new bonus cut being launched this week. Their first single taken from the EP was “Leave It Alone”, a tribute to the late Sean Price and featuring Ruste Juxx and Nobi.

Keep up to date with Tone Chop & Frost Gamble on their joint Facebook Page and on twitter @ToneChop & @FrostGamble

All press, media and radio station DJ inquiries regarding Tone Chop & Frost Gamble including requests for a promotional copy of the Veteran EP to review, or requests to interview the pair can be sent to us at UrbanElite PR. All our contact details are HERE

UrbanElite PR
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ATM-OnTheComeUpTV

West coast rappers Horseshoe Gang jumped on Skype recently with UK journalist Thomas Schofield shortly after the release of their new album “Anti-Trap Music”.

Interviewing the group for London’s On The Come Up TV, they spoke about the earliest days and the transformation from The Untouchable Gang to their present moniker and their establishment within the COB movement.

They spoke about issues they feel they sometimes face in networking with other artists, and how they view the modern day version of rap battles, especially in light of their own well documented response to Funk Volume’s $500,000 challenge last year.

The interview concludes with the theme of the album title and how the group want to help inform the younger generations of traditional hip hop values in a modern context, and use the best of the old and the new to help push the culture forward

READ THE FULL FEATURE HERE

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The album “Anti-Trap Music” was released through Seven 13 Music & Entertainment on April 29th, and is available in digital and CD formats from iTunes and Amazon respectively.

The group are currently planning live shows with a possible tour being arranged, and a new album is also in the works. You can keep up to date with their news on Twitter @Horseshoegang and via their Facebook page HorseshoeGangCOB

CHECK OUT THEIR OFFICIAL “ANTI-TRAP MUSIC” ALBUM STREAM

All press, media and radio station enquiries and requests regarding Horseshoe Gang can be sent to us at UrbanElite PR, all our contact information is HERE

UrbanElite PR
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ATM-WKNDTV

A few weeks back, Horseshoe Gang met up with US online tv channel WKNDTV at their local Long Beach studios – the station has bases coast to coast.

In this filmed interview, Demetrius, Dice, Kenny and Julius discuss their new album “Anti-Trap Music” and the influence and guidance provided by their elder brother Crooked I (aka KXNG Crooked), they speak on their well documented rap battle with Hopsin’s Funk Volume last year, give their thoughts on collaborating with other artists and talk about meeting with Death Row’s Suge Knight.

Watch the video of the interview on Youtube

Earlier this week, the group were guests on J Hart’s Big Bang Show on London’s Itch FM radio. The audio stream has just been uploaded to Mixcloud.

LISTEN BACK

“Anti-Trap Music” is Top 50 in the iTunes album charts in 15 different countries, and can be bought HERE CD versions are available to buy from Amazon HERE

The group are still conducting interviews with international media as they prepare to release a new single next week. Keep up to date with Horseshoe Gang and their latest news on TWITTER and FACEBOOK

All media, press, radio & tv station enquiries regarding Horseshoe Gang, including requests to interview the group, can be sent to us at UrbanElite PR, our contact details are HERE

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