Bone Thugs-n-Harmony – 16 Bars

Vol. 7 of HipHopDx/Director Court Dunn’s “16 BARS” series.

Cinematography by Court Dunn.

Bone Thugs-n-Harmony – This Is Hip Hop video

ThisIs50.com and director Court Dunn present the premiere installment of the THISISHIPHOP video series featuring BONE THUGS-N-HARMONY. Theme music produced by Reality.

Legendary Rapper Bizzy Bone of Bone Thugs and Harmony and Hip Hop DX Next artist Mekka Don have channeled their energy into a new song titled “IV THE LOVE.” The song, which was leaked to fans last week, is picking up a very strong buzz. (It was leaked last week to Bone and Mekka Don fans prior to a full scale release this week.)

“IV THE LOVE” serves as an anthem for Ohio, one of many states hit hard by these tough times, but it also has a more general message. “The song is about repping where you’re from, being proud of who you are and also about pursuing your dreams,” says Mekka Don.” I was working in a seemingly comfortable job, living the ‘American dream’ as a lawyer at a top law firm, but I wasn’t happy with my career. I was lucky enough to choose to leave and pursue my dream before the recession hit. Many of my associates are losing their jobs now, and are forced to figure out what to do next. For Bizzy and I, we hope that this song can serve as an inspiration for people to pursue their actual dream.” Times like these offer people the opportunity to try something new.

When asked why he chose to do such a collaboration so close to his own album release, Bizzy Bone said, “ I felt the music and the message. Mekka Don’s energy was righteous and I believe we recorded a beautiful psalm. No one ever looked out for me or Bone in this industry except for Eazy E, and I really want to help this young brother make it.”

Bizzy’s and Bone’s story can also give people the same inspiration. Bone Thugs N Harmony were four homeless teens without a dollar. However, they had talent and their dream became a reality through perseverance and hard work. To date, they have sold over 50 million albums worldwide, and have won numerous awards. “I also wanted to make a record for Ohio”, says Mekka Don. “Living in NY makes me realize how little people know about our state. A lot of that is our own fault though because in the Midwest you’re raised to be humble so we don’t promote ourselves. If you look at our history as well as our current status in the industry, Ohio’s influence on hip hop and music in general is undeniable. I think the time is now for us to create a movement.”

The trials and tribulations of Bizzy Bone and Bone Thugs and Harmony have been well documented. However, the one thing that stayed consistent over the years has been their passion for music. “I love music man. No matter what I’m going through, music has stayed consistent,” offers Bizzy. It is an extremely exciting time for the millions of Bone fans throughout the world. Flesh N Bone was recently released from prison after serving almost eight years, and the group has gotten back together – working diligently on an eagerly anticipated album, “UNI 5,” slated for a September release. “That’s my family,” offers Bizzy. “It doesn’t matter what we were going through on the business end. These guys are my brothers and families sometimes fight. The economy is in a recession, but don’t let people fool you – the music industry isn’t. Music never dies. It’s just about finding a way to navigate this industry.”

*Flesh-n-Bone, from rap group Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, was arrested yesterday evening in Santa Clarita, Calif. for gun and marijuana possession, reports TMZ.

Police said they took him into custody after discovering a gun in his vehicle. The rapper, whose real name is Stanley Howse, is being held without bail and was still in jail at press time. He is due in court on Monday.

A rep for Bone Thugs-n-Harmony released the following statement: “At this time all the facts have not been revealed publicly, however I can assure you 100% that Mr. Howse has not walked backwards! We live in a great American country where one is innocent until proven guilty.”