Here are two new tracks from two new artists who are very Independent and as you know, all up and coming artists of any stature and or genre need two things as they make their introduction to the masses (1). your ears (2.) a chance.
Motivated by the disparaging environment in his hometown, STIX, (Brandon Salaam-Bailey) surfaced as the energy behind one of LA’s most promising talents. The multi-talented Watts, California native is a founding member of the rock band LIFE NINE. The band recently inked a production deal with Grammy nominated artist Tyrese’s Headquarter Entertainment. As an independent artist, STIX has successfully built a worldwide following for his music. He was the host and headline performer on the Burger King Kings of the Court tour around the country, along with being the opening act on two nationwide tours with superstar Tyrese. STIX’s musical ingenuity has already warranted him accreditation in magazines like The The Source, True, In Touch Weekly and Hollywood Life magazine. He has had multiple mentions on Hip-Hop websites such as: YoRaps.com, Dubbcnn.com westcoastrydaz.com, ballerstatus.com, and dastreetbuzz.com; among others.
Currently, STIX has an album on iTunes with Def Jam recording artist Bobby Valentino titled, The Next of Both Worlds, which to date has received over 10,000 downloads worldwide. In addition, STIX has also worked with notable artists such as Will Smith, Tyrese, Tank, Busta Rhymes, Jay Rock, Ginuwine, Method Man and R. Kelly—just to name a few.
STIX is slated to release his debut album titled “Late For Sound Check” on August 18th 2009,
distributed by his own company Sum Genius along with Khepera Records/Ingrooves/Universal Records.
Here is the first leak from STIX’s “Late For Soundcheck” “Shining Star”
“Shining Star” Video Link:
Also, after his “Power Hungry” mixtape was released in 2007 and garnered much local acclaim and lead to appearances on mixtapes from Green Lantern and DJ Vlad, Detroit’s own Kingpin is now prepping the release of his latest endeavor “The Journey.” The mixtape will be released as a free download in July 2009 and it will feature production from upcoming Detroit producers DMenace, Clockwork and Prolyphic the Pro .
Here is the first leak from Kingpin’s forthcoming “The Journey” mixtape “The Grind”