B. Dolan - "The Devil is Alive" - The Story of Freeway Rick Ross

Never heard f the real "Freeway" Rick Ross, well then watch this vid then right after go do the knowledge.

Rock-Rap Dynasty: Rise of the Wolves by @VoicesOfTerror

The Voices of Terror didn't break the internet with their debut "Rock-Rap Dynasty: Rise of the Wolves" nonetheless their enthusiasm is duly noted. It’s apparent they believe in their movement but belief in one’s own mission is simply not enough when stepping into the realm of rap, rock and alternative Hiphop realistically, considering the bar set by artists like Rage Against the Machine, Linkin Park and even Kid Rock.

To his credit, Mike Walker (producer) is obviously talented but more than rock sounding production is needed to qualify a project as 'rock'. If the tracks composed were reinterpreted by an awesome band then perhaps Zero (emcee) would have the backing he needs to really command respect on the mic. It might push him a bit, help craft his delivery. His raps sound recited. Passionate but no finesse. The remedy, one hundred hours on stage projecting over unbearably loud live music and an even louder aggressive audience.

In order for these young voices to make a considerable mark, training wheels must come off. No tandem jumps, only fearless stage dive after stage dive. Growth is a necessity. Sometimes with experience, the writing gets better. Depth of the music happens when artists create and learn from their respective journeys and apply it in real time.

The Voices of Terror have a way go in order live up to the name they've chosen for themselves. To say they have potential would be unforgivably cliche. Still, dreaming big never hurt anyone. With that stated, please excuse the following cliche. Only ‘time will tell’ if these pups truly rise to become the intimidating wolves they aspire to be while fulfilling their destiny. The construction of a rock-rap dynasty.

Chuckie Campbell (@ChuckieC2) "All I Meant" featuring Cole Jonique

I shouldn't have to say this but, Hiphop is more than burners, bling and bitches or Boom Bap. Have some people tell it, you're either a purists or you're a sell out. That's hardly a train of though that supports the evolution of art and culture. Let’s call this piece a short film that sits off center in a gray playing field; the teams involved of course are black and white.

The vid for Chucki Campbell’s "All I Meant" featuring Cole Jonique is ambitious in it’s presentation. It feels like an upgraded twist on old school music videos from movie soundtracks that blend in footage of the main characters with shots of the performing artist and of course interpretive dance scenes. This is obviously conceptual. The track sonically is atypical for rap vocals and as far as content goes, well there aren’t many songs about relationships and one’s responsibility within them, considering everyone actually has them. It doesn’t fit the description of what ‘real’ Hiphop is or what dying terrestrial radio would deem ‘hot’. To say the least it shouts a genuine attempt at honesty within the music and visual creativity never mind it's par with the look of most of today’s high quality, big budget music video offerings. Whether or not it actually 'works' is for you to decide? (Truth be told I’m mostly affected by the vocals of Cole Jonique and dance movements of Precious Lanee.)

How do you feel about All I Meant? Join the conversation. Drop a comment. Tell us what you really think.

You can even tweet us your thoughts! @freehiphopnow