88 Keys talks about his start selling records with John Carraro to producers such as Q-Tip and Pete Rock, working on the ASR-10 and MPC 3000 sampler/sequencer, and interning at The Music Palace studios. He also runs down a list of his favorite productions including works with Mos Def, Black Star, J-Live, Macy Gray, and … Read more
Producer Ty Fyffe steps up to the Akai MPC 2500 and takes us through the making of G-Unit’s "T.O.S." Ty Fyffe also discusses topics such as tuning drum sounds, programming, timing (quantize), and showcases some techniques for layering samples.
Another low priced alternative for those laptop warriors in need of a budget audio interface. The E-MU 0404 USB 2.0 Limited Edition white interface is scheduled for a winter 2008 ship date along with sub $220 street price. Features include: 24-bit/192kHz A/D and D/A converters E-MU XTC Class-A ultra-low noise Mic/Line/Hi-Z preamplifiers Two 1/4" Balanced … Read more
At least once a month I know that I’ll have some fresh audio to throw into my iPhone. Again, this time around Ian Head delivers with his December ’08 mix entitled Covers Vol. 1 featuring covers of "California Dreamin’", "Ain’t No Sunshine", "Inner City Blues", and "Son of a Preacher Man." Ian also sets the … Read more
The MicroKorg has been scheduled for an update with the early 2009 release of the MicroKorg XL. Should be interesting to see what is actually delivered when the final product is delivered.
It didn’t take long for Monster to release an in-ear version of their Beats By Dr. Dre headphones. Boasting the world’s first tangle-free cable and a slightly more manageable price tag than its predecessor, I’m sure many of you will be eager to get your hands on a pair to see what they’re made of. … Read more
Open Labs support guru David Williams sits down to interview producer Y2JJ, winner of the Beats ‘N Treats beat battle. Y2JJ reveals that he doesn’t play any instruments and won the battle using only a PC w/ 1 GB of RAM and a copy of Fruity Loops. There’s no doubt that the gold plated Anniversary … Read more
It all goes down on Wednesday, December 3rd in NYC where a total of 16 producers and beat makers will take the stage to determine who will be crowned Red Bull Big Tune Beat Battle National Champion. I can’t wait to see the resulting footage and hear some of the treats that were laid down. … Read more
Session A presents their 3rd annual beat battle featuring Kev Brown, LMNO, and The Uhh…! The event also features open mics, open tables, and open floors for anyone willing to make the trek and showcase their skills. Hosted by: Tony B and resident DJ’s Analog & J.DA December 4th, 2008 @ 6:30 PM Free Event … Read more
Iconic producer Q-Tip visits NYC’s Big City Records to peruse the crates, talk about the importance of focusing on music, and A Tribe Called Quest’s musical legacy. [Respect to NFDK]