The Archives

Boi-1da Interview: Producers vs Beatmakers, Career Goals

Producer Boi-1da discusses his start with FL Studio, the difference between being a producer and a beatmaker, and then gives an overview of his discography. Boi-1da also talks about what he looks for when considering working with an artist, the valueo of remaining persistent, and future career goals.

Brandon Allday – Zip Disks Break Preview

Brandon Allday offers a quick breakdown of a track from the upcoming Big Quarters album Zip Disks Break, which feature 25 handcrafted instrumentals. Hit up the release party featuring live beatmaking and performances. All attendees of the Zip Disks Break release party will receive a free copy of the album. Zip Disks Break 2009 Saturday, … Read more

R.I.P. Roc Raida: Master Turntablist & World Champion DJ

Crate Kings is sad to report that Grandmaster Roc Raida (X-Men) passed away today. Besides being extremely influential to legions of turntablists, Roc Raida was highly respected and loved by many. Please take a moment to view the above footage from the 1995 DMC World Championships and honor the unique skill and style of Roc … Read more

DJ Neil Armstrong On Being Jay Z’s Tour DJ

DJ Neil Armstrong discusses first being introduced to DJ battling at the New Music Seminar, learning with the X-Men, working with the 5th Platoon DJ Crew, and landing his current gig as Jay Z’s tour DJ. Notable Quote: “Essentially what is expected of Jay’s DJ is that you’ve gotta read his mind.” [via H.E.R.]

Cassette Business Cards w/ Case Holder

cassette-business-cards2

Besides being an essential item to serious aspiring producers and musicians, it’s no secret that business cards can leave a powerful impression on new contacts. Designer Koji Sueyoshi’s cassette shaped business cards and accompanying cassette case are certainly unforgettable and sure to catch an extra glance from anybody who receives one.

[Design Boom via GG]

More after the break!

Read more

Play N Skillz: Technology Made Production “Too Easy”

Production team Play N Skillz speak candidly about the role of technology in music creation and the benefits and drawbacks of increased accessibility resulting from the widespread use music related software. Notable Quotes: “Technology has kind of made things too easy. The musician part of it has kind of faded away for whatever reason.” “Now … Read more

Fall Beat Battles (San Francisco)

Phillip Drummond presents a series of fall 2009 beat battles with varying themes. Multiple producers will compete head-to-head to chop samples and settle grudge matches. The Beatles Beat Battle – September 24th The Bay vs. The Valley – October 17th The Rocky Horror Beat Show – October 29th Cover Charge: $10 or $7 w/ canned … Read more

Cut Chemist & J.Period To Appear In DJ Hero

I made a quiet promise myself not to post any additional news about Activision’s DJ Hero. Of course, that was until we heard the latest news that digital incarnations of DJ’s Cut Chemist and J. Period will appear in the game. Congrats to both DJ’s… DJ Hero just moved up a couple of notches. [Gamespot … Read more

Alex Goose – The BluePrint 3 Outtakes (Download)

Producer Alex Goose delivers a collection of instrumentals that were passed over for Jay Z’s Blueprint 3 album.  Take a listen, you won’t regret it. Visit Alex Goose’s The Blueprint 3 Outtakes site for the free download. [Respect to Juney!]