Best of 2006
By Allen Gordon
Before we go through our yearly review of good and bad albums and whatnot, I have to start this piece off giving a moment of respect to the dearly departed John Edward Hawkins (November 1, 1969 – May 1, 2006), better known as Houston's own Big Hawk. RIP big homie.
Here are my top 11 picks for the best albums of 2006
1. My Ghetto Report Card- E 40
2. Pick a Bigger Weapon- The Coup
3. Reality Check- Juvenile
4. All American Gangsta- ESG
5. Laugh Now Cry Later- Ice Cube
6. The Carter 2- Lil Wayne
7. Urban Survival Syndrome- Mitchy Slick
8. Feedback- Jurassic 5
9. Can't Ban The Snowman- Young Jeezy/DJ Drama
10. Young and Restless- Balance
11. Kingdome Come- Jay Z
Now that we've dispensed with the pleasantries, let's get to it. Bottom line, indie labels kicked the majors’ butt this year. More quality music came from the streets and suburbs than from the ivory towers of corporate America in 2006. Is that good or bad? Neither. The level of quality music is still shallow compared to the number of records produced each year (indie or major). But like we always do, Murder Dog allows each of its contributors to keep things real raw and honest. So If I call you out, don't bitch to them, you can hit me up. But we both know, chances are, I'm usually correct though.
WELCOME HOME AWARD
It's great to have three of the music industry's best talents back in society after long stints in the penal system: Big Hutch of Above The Law, Corey Miller (formerly known as C-Murder) and Project Pat of the 3-6 Mafia camp. All three soldiers came home in 2006 and immediately put out music so their fans could experience their time behind bars and with the American justice system. Can't get any more real than that. Hutch, the world is at your fingertips and cats are sorely in need of good music. Make a killing, man.
BIG DADDY KANE AWARD
I hate to give it up, but Lil Wayne is hands down the best rapper in the music right now. On sheer talent, Wayne killed the mixtape circuit with "The Dedication" via DJ Drama's Gangsta Grillz series, then put out the stellar "The Carter II", then capped the year off with his collaboration Cash Money CEO Bryan Williams on "Like Father, Like Son". "Stunna Like My Daddy" hit like no other song this year. Not to mention Wayne had about a dozen quality verses on various remixes and collaborations with the likes of Chris Brown, Bobby Valentino, Jim Jones, Rick Ross, and Keyshia Cole. All hail the new King!
ICE CUBE AWARD
T.I. has taken the mantle of the hardest cat on the mic. For sheer talent and bravado, there aren't many that can say they have constantly improved the ability to put out quality music in a time when most of the genre is on its knees creatively. His album "King" was one of the year's crowning events and sold 1.7 million copies. He also gave a stellar acting performance in the film "A.T.L.". For the most part T.I. has been able to saturate the entertainment scene without anyone getting tired of him. That is a true talent, to be everywhere all the time and have people continue to show love and not throw shade. Amerikkka's Most: The Next Generation.
KOBE BRYANT AWARD
Ignore him at your own risk, but Mitchy Slick is the sharpest thing going when it comes to the raw street shit that is as intelligent as it is Gangsta. The San Diego native and Strong Arm Steady affiliate owes all of his success to himself. From networking to marketing, Mitchy is a one man company who has truly made his name by himself. No piggybacking or grand favors, Slick put out two smashing mixtapes, and then his first nationwide release,
Urban Survival Syndrome". What we got was the most intense solo release from the West Coast in a decade. No matter how you do him, he'll still puts up 40 points a night.
MOMENT OF SUNSHINE AWARD
Jim Jones has been a Dipset staple for years now, but "We Fly High" (Ballin) has put him in a place where people outside of the Northeast can actually identify the guy next to Cam’ron and Juelz Santana. That chorus of the song has become the latest catch phrase for pro, college and high school athletes around the country, as well as street kids. While the song is in constant rotation, no one is talking about the album or Jim Jones himself. A shame since the album is pretty damn entertaining. Enjoy your 15 minutes of fame.
TUPAC AWARD
Mac Dre will live forever, not just through his recordings, but because he was at the forefront of a burgeoning culture here in the Bay Area. Beyond today’s Hyphy Movement and whatever musical trends are forthcoming, Mac Dre will forever maintain the following of a cult hero because he was a man of the people. In an age where artists no longer interact with their fans and hide behind products and bodyguards, Mac Dre's personal touch has effected people so deeply that he has already touched four generations of Hip Hop fans. Eternal respect.
SOUL TRAIN AWARD
Say what you will about the Franchize Boys or DFL and "Snap Music", but them cats have the whole world dancing a new way. You cannot front on that. People tend to forget that street dancing is an element of Hip Hop culture. Are we supposed to keep breakdancing forever? Fuck no! Snap Music is just another element from another part of the country, and it should be appreciated for how it brings people together and how it highlights another form of Black expression. Plus, for all of New York's older elite hating on "Snap", NY kids knew what time it was and came out with "Chicken Noodle Soup". Cool, but ATL's Big Oomp Camp shut that shit down real quick with "Walk It Out".
CHARLIE MURPHY AWARD
Mistah F.A.B. (Fabby Davis Jr.) is on his way to the big time. One of the few Oakland products who can successfully marry storytelling, Gangsta, Hyphy, backpacker and other styles of Rap within several songs, F.A.B. has the whole world ahead of him. As a versatile artist who can freestyle, write good songs and be innovative with his music, Mistah F.A.B. really shined on his sophomore album, "Son of a Pimp". Now on a major label, it will be interesting how F.A.B. performs on the world stage and if the Bay will successfully climb on his back and keep the flow of creative artists coming down the shoot in order to assert some dominance on the scene.
KOFI ANNAN AWARD
Bump the United States, Jurassic 5 are international players on a worldwide stage. With their new album "Feedback", the five man crew just returned from a three month stint overseas and are gearing up for their U.S. tour. They one of the few groups who can travel around the world, whether promoting a current album or not. It’s truly amazing that the appreciation of their pro-Black/World music has such an impact on poor people across the globe, while the U.S. middle class supports here. Regardless, J5 continue to push new boundaries and forge ahead as ambassadors of true struggle with self and the trappings of life, emotions and the world at large.
FOREVER HOT AWARD
Lil Wayne isn't the only former Hot Boy on fire. Both B.G. and Juvenile put out stellar albums this year with "Heart of the Streets Vol. 2" and "Reality Check". Truth be told, Wayne gets all the shine industry wise, but these two will forever be the favorites. There is too much history of good music and interesting stories to ever write off either of these vets who are still in their twenties. "Heart" features B.G. at his autobiographical best, not being bitter, just real about the life he has lived and what is going on. Juvenile, who is always party oriented and at the same time socially aware, continues to marvel. "Reality Check" was a great album that ranks next to "400 Degreez" and "UTP". Two of the greatest to ever do it.
DJ SCREW AWARD
DJ Drama's Gangsta Grillz mixtape series is the best thing to happen to Rap music since No Limit Records. Never before has one DJ taken a collection of songs, or recorded freestyles and songs exclusive to an artist, and made it better than the official albums. From T.I. to Lil Wayne to Young Jeezy, DJ Drama has reinvigorated the entire Mixtape genre. "Trap or Die", "Can't Ban The Snowman", and "Dedication" rank among the best selling mixtapes on the West Coast. Those CD’s paved the way for the growing popularity of each particular artist around the country. All hail the Aphilliates.
FUNKMASTER FLEX AWARD
Speaking of DJs, Oakland's own DJ Backside is another turntable solider who was all the rave in 2006. As the most visible DJ promoting Hyphy around the world, Backside literally put the Bay on her shoulders and repped the Bay like no other. She was around the globe at the Mixshow Power Summit, on Rap City, and various other venues promoting her home turf and the music that generates from that region. Not only that, she e-mails everyone she comes in contact with about every move she is making—from spinning at clubs to hosting MixCDs to promoting her "Got Bay?" line of attire. Making moves like this and she's only going at 70 percent... smash on sistah.
GORDON GECCO AWARD
Chamillionaire is a fine example of not letting the recording business change who and what you are. King Koopa studied the music business for almost ten years, while making his name on the Houston scene with his former rhyme partner Paul Wall. In 2006 he finally decided to broker a label deal that completely worked to his benefit. A million and a half albums later, he is the benefactor of a contract that is highly equitable, something that upcoming artists should use a blueprint. No American Idol ass nonsense, just a dirt hustle turned into major business. Not to mention, King Koopa is one of the illest dudes on the mic.
KEEPER OF THE FLAME AWARD
Mac Mall is keeping that Thizz Nation torch burning bright as can be. "Thizz Radio Vol. 3 &4" dropped with great anticipation and the kids ate them up. As of this writing, I haven't had a chance to cop Maccin's new album, "Thizziana Stoned and the Temple of Shrooms", but as the biggest Mac Mall fan, I'm already lining my dollars up for that one. As president of the Thizz label, the amount of music Mall is responsible for overseeing is incredible. He's on a mission to maintain a legacy and institution. Hat's off to you, homie.
ICE CUBE PART II AWARD
Part two? Yes, because The Game put together the "Doctor's Advocate" without Dr. Dre and it still comes off as hard and engaging as "The Documentary". With all that The Game was up against, like Cube when he left NWA, Game took all that he learned and applied himself like a maniac. The result was two great mixtapes, an interesting DVD, and a killer album that shows even more hunger and desire to be great at the Rap game than his previous efforts. On enthusiasm alone Game wins with me. The kid is deadly on the mic, and he hasn't even hit his prime yet. 50, you fucked up on this one.
KEYSHAWN JOHNSON AWARD
Sometimes you just need a change of scenery or a new team to reinvigorate your talents and skills. E-40 did just that when he hooked up with Lil Jon, Rick Rock, Bosko and his son Droop E to produce "Ghetto Report Card" (which gets my vote as album of the year). Song for song, there wasn't a better album to release in 2006. E-40 put on a new suit and gave it to fans like he was 18 again. The passion, stories, and creativity that went into the album was phenomenal, not to mention the music was off the chain. In ranking the top five E-40 albums I would put "My Ghetto Report Card" right at the top with "Mail Man" and "Federal" because of the timing and what it means in this era of Rap. A legendary performance from a veteran who many doubted. No doubts.
FRANK SINATRA AWARD
"I go on an on/Can't understand how I rap so long/I must have superpowers, it seems like I rapped 55,000 hours." Too Short is the greatest rapper of our time. True there are better lyricists and MC’s, even people who have made better albums at times. But what MC in 2006 can say they have been making quality records since 1983? Nobody! Too Short is the embodiment of everything that is lovely about Hip Hop music. He's just having fun making music. There are the dirty songs mixed in with his social commentary and bravado, but that's what life is for a young Black man. Two decades and 17 albums deep, Too Short always comes up with a great song like "Blow The Whistle", allowing the style of music to change so that he can remain relevant to the times musically. He's truly a legend the likes of Sinatra, Sammy and Dean Martin.
WILT CHAMBERLAIN AWARD
I know I just stated Too Short was the GOAT, but so is Ice Cube. Not so much for longevity, as much as for talent. Never has one rapper (not even Tupac) meant so much to music fans just because of what he says. Forget the music. When Ice Cube talks, people listen. "Laugh Now, Cry Later" was a Cube commentary that we haven't heard since the first Westside Connection album. When Ice Cube gets pissed off or has to get something off his chest fans are treated to some of the most hardcore and insightful views of life. Insight as it pertains to our everyday lives. Neighborhood stories, the prison system, presidential politics or whatever, nobody has ever laid it out better than Ice Cube. He's scored more points with the community than any other rapper, and continues to go where people won't.
LEGENDS AWARD
Not many rappers are so loved by two generations of fans as MC Eiht is. As long as "Menace 2 Society" is a favorite film, people will always hear "Streight Up Menace" by Eiht, one of the greatest works of songwriting in music period. However fans were introduced to MC Eiht—as a solo artist or through his group Compton's Most Wanted—that bond with fans always give energy to Eiht’s current projects, like his 2006 release "Affiliated". This album takes music back to 1990 while remaining current in its perspective. Fantastic and still at his best, you have to salute Eiht like the general he is
KWAME NKRUMA AWARD
The Coup are the most underrated group in music. Yet, that status has afforded them the ability to make pure uncut Hip Hop music that is remarkably social, political, Gangsta, soulful and whatever other gamut of human experience we go through as oppressed people. The Coup make music that is uplifting and socially engaging. "Pick a Bigger Weapon" is number two in my top five albums of 2006. Only Paris and Public Enemy can share that political distinction as evidenced on their awesome collaboration "Birth of a Nation".
TOO SHORT AWARD
Jay Z out of retirement to prove he's the best. You won't get much of an argument here. "Kingdome Come" isn't as good as the "Black Album" or the "Blueprint", but it is undoubtedly the work of a master. Plus, it's the first Hip Hop album targeted for 30-something-year-olds who don't want to party with the kids. Adult contemporary Hip Hop music for people my age.
KEEP AN EYE ON YOU LUGGAGE AWARD
Dem Hoodstarz are thieves. Straight up. When Band Aide and Scoot dropped their album, these fools stole any attention I was paying to other rappers. Just when I was ready to drift away from the Hyphy sound, Dem Hoodstarz put a new coat of paint on it. The sheer energy and excitement they have for making music goes a long way in all their songs. While some rappers are just doing records to collect a check, these fools really want to make a scene. And I'm all in.
QUINCY JONES AWARD
DJ Quik is all things great about music. In 2006 Quik put out three albums: "Trauma", the "Trauma Instrumentals", and "DJ Quik: Live from The House of Blues". All three are a tribute to his musicianship and really highlight the fact that Quik has always been well ahead of his peers when it comes to producing music. The Live album in particular is a great tribute to 16 years of fantastic music celebrated by the fans who love him most. The DVD is coming soon.
DJ QUIK AWARD
Hi Tek may be one of the best R&B producers that nobody knows. Not even himself. Some of this producer's tracks are used throughout the Chicago Stepping community or used for R&B mixes for upcoming singers. His album "Hi Teknology part 2" is brilliant. The music is just fantastic. Sadly Tek doesn't see that Beyonce, Monica, Brandy and all the rest of them could really use his sound to reinvigorate R&B.
RAKIM AWARD
Since JAY Z and Nas are more worldwide Hip Hop figures, Papoose is the lone sheriff holding it down for NYC. In a city full of rhyme masters, Papoose is really getting that push, because he knows how to make records. NYC cats can rhyme all night, but nobody else across the country really cares if you cannot produce a good album mixing lyrics, style and music. Papoose is not the savior, but he's damn good and the city's best hope. He represents NYC like no other.
JESSE JACKSON AWARD
Keep hope alive in the Bay Area. With a numerous amount of young talent popping up in the Oakland/San Francisco Bay Area, very few appear to have long promising careers like Mac Dre, Hiero, E-40 or Mac Mall. Out of this crop of young gunners, the sky is the limit for cats like Balance, Ya Boy, Traxamillion, Turf Talk, and the Pharmaceuticals. As far as ability on the mic, Turf Talk murdered the scene last year with his debut album, and committed further homicide with almost 30 cameos in 2006. The kid seemed to get better and better. Balance made a stunning debut with his album "Young and Restless". Very well rounded, it will be good to see where Balance grows from here. Ya Boy had a decent album with "Rookie of The Year" in 2005; then the kid when straight stupid on the Black Wallstreet album by Game and DJ NuJerzey Devil. Ya Boy repped for the Bay so hard he out-rapped Game, Juice and Clyde Carson on the amazing mixtape. Between Traxamillion and the Pharmaceuticals, the next generation of fly beatmakers is in good hands. As teenagers, the Hyphy sound can be translated into a vast array of music that can be soul, dance, hip hop or something yet to be defined. So far they have created bombs for Keak Da Sneak, E 40, The Team, Dem Hoodstarz, Messy Marv and host of others. Grow up slow fellas, I want to enjoy this era you usher in.
VIAGRA AWARD
Snoop Dogg only needs one hit to keep those good feelings going when he puts out a new project. "The Blue Carpet Treatment" is an extension of 2005's "Rhythm and Gangsta", but that soulful sound cannot be denied. Snoop isn't rapping anything new or innovative, but he's still the fucking big dog on the block. As long as he sounds cool, he'll be cool, and that is essentially what you are buying when you listen to Snoop. You are buying the Fonz. Here's to Snoop for staying hard for so many years.
CASPER THE FRIENDLY GHOST AWARD
Not quite sure what to make of Paul Wall. He's good and put a good UGK-ish album, but what's left? Aside from selling grills, Paul hasn't left his own personal mark on the culture that would endear him to people. He put out a decent album and was gone from memory. It's too bad that his celebrity didn't bring fans to listen to the Paul Wall & Chamillionaire albums from back in the day, because those were great works of art. That is the standard that I know Paul Wall from, but for those who don't, your music might as well be ghost. That foundation is important when going from indie to mainstream. Don't wash over your roots.
OVER AND OUT AWARDS
Hate to say it, but stick a fork in these fellas. Obie Trice could make it on the independent labels with ease, but commercially it's a wrap, homie. Mobb Deep: the G-Unit move didn't do anything to advance or maintain your status in the game. It actually took you down a few pegs. Over. Tha Liks: at least you got to call your last shot. You knew it was time and you went out with dignity and a good album. Cheers to J-Ro, Tash and E-Swift the Great (one of my favorite producers). Outkast put out a good movie and "Idlewild" was an ambitious project, just not very strong. The Outkast brand will continue to weaken if you two split or keep recording separately. But after so much great music over the years, you're due one so-so project. The Dogg Pound reuniting was one of the most uneventful moments of 2006. You guys last released an album together in 1996, since then it's been a series of mediocre solo projects and piecemeal DPG albums from Death Row or Daz. It's over fellas. You can't recapture that magic ten years later, move on to new projects and ideas. P-Diddy, please stop making albums and using yourself as the focal point of your record label. There is no way American Idol's Simon Cowell should be producing more pop stars than Bad Boy. You were an institution of good music and style, now you are just playing a bad game of catch up. And finally Lloyd Banks, who was the man along with Tony Yayo before G-Unit signed with a major. The G-Unit train has just about come to a halt. Your ride is over as a celebrity. It doesn't help that your personality was buried under the G-Unit movement when shit was rolling. Now people will never know.
CAN I GET MY ALBUM?
2006 produced a handful of really good album, but a slew of albums that really sucked bad. If 2007 holds any promise it will be the release of great music from artists like the following who would have made 2006 a great year had the music come out. UGK, Killer Mike, Scarface, Ghetto Mafia, Jayo Felony, Mystikal, Tim Smooth, Al Kapone, Smoke D, Collard Greens, Cool Breeze, Odd Squad/Devin the Dude, Nelly, WC, De La Soul, Raekwon, Keyshia Cole, R. Kelly, Del, Papoose.
SORRY YOU GOT SLEPT ON AWARD
I usually feel bad when very good albums fall under the radar for any number of reasons. Here are some albums that were pretty damn good, but people didn't necessarily buy. Method Man 421, Ghostface Killah's Fishscale, Chingy's Hoodstar, B.G.'s Heart of the Streets Vol. 1, Lupe Fiasco, Rhymefest's Blue Collar, Planet Asia's The Medicine.
By Allen Gordon
Before we go through our yearly review of good and bad albums and whatnot, I have to start this piece off giving a moment of respect to the dearly departed John Edward Hawkins (November 1, 1969 – May 1, 2006), better known as Houston's own Big Hawk. RIP big homie.
Here are my top 11 picks for the best albums of 2006
1. My Ghetto Report Card- E 40
2. Pick a Bigger Weapon- The Coup
3. Reality Check- Juvenile
4. All American Gangsta- ESG
5. Laugh Now Cry Later- Ice Cube
6. The Carter 2- Lil Wayne
7. Urban Survival Syndrome- Mitchy Slick
8. Feedback- Jurassic 5
9. Can't Ban The Snowman- Young Jeezy/DJ Drama
10. Young and Restless- Balance
11. Kingdome Come- Jay Z
Now that we've dispensed with the pleasantries, let's get to it. Bottom line, indie labels kicked the majors’ butt this year. More quality music came from the streets and suburbs than from the ivory towers of corporate America in 2006. Is that good or bad? Neither. The level of quality music is still shallow compared to the number of records produced each year (indie or major). But like we always do, Murder Dog allows each of its contributors to keep things real raw and honest. So If I call you out, don't bitch to them, you can hit me up. But we both know, chances are, I'm usually correct though.
WELCOME HOME AWARD
It's great to have three of the music industry's best talents back in society after long stints in the penal system: Big Hutch of Above The Law, Corey Miller (formerly known as C-Murder) and Project Pat of the 3-6 Mafia camp. All three soldiers came home in 2006 and immediately put out music so their fans could experience their time behind bars and with the American justice system. Can't get any more real than that. Hutch, the world is at your fingertips and cats are sorely in need of good music. Make a killing, man.
BIG DADDY KANE AWARD
I hate to give it up, but Lil Wayne is hands down the best rapper in the music right now. On sheer talent, Wayne killed the mixtape circuit with "The Dedication" via DJ Drama's Gangsta Grillz series, then put out the stellar "The Carter II", then capped the year off with his collaboration Cash Money CEO Bryan Williams on "Like Father, Like Son". "Stunna Like My Daddy" hit like no other song this year. Not to mention Wayne had about a dozen quality verses on various remixes and collaborations with the likes of Chris Brown, Bobby Valentino, Jim Jones, Rick Ross, and Keyshia Cole. All hail the new King!
ICE CUBE AWARD
T.I. has taken the mantle of the hardest cat on the mic. For sheer talent and bravado, there aren't many that can say they have constantly improved the ability to put out quality music in a time when most of the genre is on its knees creatively. His album "King" was one of the year's crowning events and sold 1.7 million copies. He also gave a stellar acting performance in the film "A.T.L.". For the most part T.I. has been able to saturate the entertainment scene without anyone getting tired of him. That is a true talent, to be everywhere all the time and have people continue to show love and not throw shade. Amerikkka's Most: The Next Generation.
KOBE BRYANT AWARD
Ignore him at your own risk, but Mitchy Slick is the sharpest thing going when it comes to the raw street shit that is as intelligent as it is Gangsta. The San Diego native and Strong Arm Steady affiliate owes all of his success to himself. From networking to marketing, Mitchy is a one man company who has truly made his name by himself. No piggybacking or grand favors, Slick put out two smashing mixtapes, and then his first nationwide release,
Urban Survival Syndrome". What we got was the most intense solo release from the West Coast in a decade. No matter how you do him, he'll still puts up 40 points a night.
MOMENT OF SUNSHINE AWARD
Jim Jones has been a Dipset staple for years now, but "We Fly High" (Ballin) has put him in a place where people outside of the Northeast can actually identify the guy next to Cam’ron and Juelz Santana. That chorus of the song has become the latest catch phrase for pro, college and high school athletes around the country, as well as street kids. While the song is in constant rotation, no one is talking about the album or Jim Jones himself. A shame since the album is pretty damn entertaining. Enjoy your 15 minutes of fame.
TUPAC AWARD
Mac Dre will live forever, not just through his recordings, but because he was at the forefront of a burgeoning culture here in the Bay Area. Beyond today’s Hyphy Movement and whatever musical trends are forthcoming, Mac Dre will forever maintain the following of a cult hero because he was a man of the people. In an age where artists no longer interact with their fans and hide behind products and bodyguards, Mac Dre's personal touch has effected people so deeply that he has already touched four generations of Hip Hop fans. Eternal respect.
SOUL TRAIN AWARD
Say what you will about the Franchize Boys or DFL and "Snap Music", but them cats have the whole world dancing a new way. You cannot front on that. People tend to forget that street dancing is an element of Hip Hop culture. Are we supposed to keep breakdancing forever? Fuck no! Snap Music is just another element from another part of the country, and it should be appreciated for how it brings people together and how it highlights another form of Black expression. Plus, for all of New York's older elite hating on "Snap", NY kids knew what time it was and came out with "Chicken Noodle Soup". Cool, but ATL's Big Oomp Camp shut that shit down real quick with "Walk It Out".
CHARLIE MURPHY AWARD
Mistah F.A.B. (Fabby Davis Jr.) is on his way to the big time. One of the few Oakland products who can successfully marry storytelling, Gangsta, Hyphy, backpacker and other styles of Rap within several songs, F.A.B. has the whole world ahead of him. As a versatile artist who can freestyle, write good songs and be innovative with his music, Mistah F.A.B. really shined on his sophomore album, "Son of a Pimp". Now on a major label, it will be interesting how F.A.B. performs on the world stage and if the Bay will successfully climb on his back and keep the flow of creative artists coming down the shoot in order to assert some dominance on the scene.
KOFI ANNAN AWARD
Bump the United States, Jurassic 5 are international players on a worldwide stage. With their new album "Feedback", the five man crew just returned from a three month stint overseas and are gearing up for their U.S. tour. They one of the few groups who can travel around the world, whether promoting a current album or not. It’s truly amazing that the appreciation of their pro-Black/World music has such an impact on poor people across the globe, while the U.S. middle class supports here. Regardless, J5 continue to push new boundaries and forge ahead as ambassadors of true struggle with self and the trappings of life, emotions and the world at large.
FOREVER HOT AWARD
Lil Wayne isn't the only former Hot Boy on fire. Both B.G. and Juvenile put out stellar albums this year with "Heart of the Streets Vol. 2" and "Reality Check". Truth be told, Wayne gets all the shine industry wise, but these two will forever be the favorites. There is too much history of good music and interesting stories to ever write off either of these vets who are still in their twenties. "Heart" features B.G. at his autobiographical best, not being bitter, just real about the life he has lived and what is going on. Juvenile, who is always party oriented and at the same time socially aware, continues to marvel. "Reality Check" was a great album that ranks next to "400 Degreez" and "UTP". Two of the greatest to ever do it.
DJ SCREW AWARD
DJ Drama's Gangsta Grillz mixtape series is the best thing to happen to Rap music since No Limit Records. Never before has one DJ taken a collection of songs, or recorded freestyles and songs exclusive to an artist, and made it better than the official albums. From T.I. to Lil Wayne to Young Jeezy, DJ Drama has reinvigorated the entire Mixtape genre. "Trap or Die", "Can't Ban The Snowman", and "Dedication" rank among the best selling mixtapes on the West Coast. Those CD’s paved the way for the growing popularity of each particular artist around the country. All hail the Aphilliates.
FUNKMASTER FLEX AWARD
Speaking of DJs, Oakland's own DJ Backside is another turntable solider who was all the rave in 2006. As the most visible DJ promoting Hyphy around the world, Backside literally put the Bay on her shoulders and repped the Bay like no other. She was around the globe at the Mixshow Power Summit, on Rap City, and various other venues promoting her home turf and the music that generates from that region. Not only that, she e-mails everyone she comes in contact with about every move she is making—from spinning at clubs to hosting MixCDs to promoting her "Got Bay?" line of attire. Making moves like this and she's only going at 70 percent... smash on sistah.
GORDON GECCO AWARD
Chamillionaire is a fine example of not letting the recording business change who and what you are. King Koopa studied the music business for almost ten years, while making his name on the Houston scene with his former rhyme partner Paul Wall. In 2006 he finally decided to broker a label deal that completely worked to his benefit. A million and a half albums later, he is the benefactor of a contract that is highly equitable, something that upcoming artists should use a blueprint. No American Idol ass nonsense, just a dirt hustle turned into major business. Not to mention, King Koopa is one of the illest dudes on the mic.
KEEPER OF THE FLAME AWARD
Mac Mall is keeping that Thizz Nation torch burning bright as can be. "Thizz Radio Vol. 3 &4" dropped with great anticipation and the kids ate them up. As of this writing, I haven't had a chance to cop Maccin's new album, "Thizziana Stoned and the Temple of Shrooms", but as the biggest Mac Mall fan, I'm already lining my dollars up for that one. As president of the Thizz label, the amount of music Mall is responsible for overseeing is incredible. He's on a mission to maintain a legacy and institution. Hat's off to you, homie.
ICE CUBE PART II AWARD
Part two? Yes, because The Game put together the "Doctor's Advocate" without Dr. Dre and it still comes off as hard and engaging as "The Documentary". With all that The Game was up against, like Cube when he left NWA, Game took all that he learned and applied himself like a maniac. The result was two great mixtapes, an interesting DVD, and a killer album that shows even more hunger and desire to be great at the Rap game than his previous efforts. On enthusiasm alone Game wins with me. The kid is deadly on the mic, and he hasn't even hit his prime yet. 50, you fucked up on this one.
KEYSHAWN JOHNSON AWARD
Sometimes you just need a change of scenery or a new team to reinvigorate your talents and skills. E-40 did just that when he hooked up with Lil Jon, Rick Rock, Bosko and his son Droop E to produce "Ghetto Report Card" (which gets my vote as album of the year). Song for song, there wasn't a better album to release in 2006. E-40 put on a new suit and gave it to fans like he was 18 again. The passion, stories, and creativity that went into the album was phenomenal, not to mention the music was off the chain. In ranking the top five E-40 albums I would put "My Ghetto Report Card" right at the top with "Mail Man" and "Federal" because of the timing and what it means in this era of Rap. A legendary performance from a veteran who many doubted. No doubts.
FRANK SINATRA AWARD
"I go on an on/Can't understand how I rap so long/I must have superpowers, it seems like I rapped 55,000 hours." Too Short is the greatest rapper of our time. True there are better lyricists and MC’s, even people who have made better albums at times. But what MC in 2006 can say they have been making quality records since 1983? Nobody! Too Short is the embodiment of everything that is lovely about Hip Hop music. He's just having fun making music. There are the dirty songs mixed in with his social commentary and bravado, but that's what life is for a young Black man. Two decades and 17 albums deep, Too Short always comes up with a great song like "Blow The Whistle", allowing the style of music to change so that he can remain relevant to the times musically. He's truly a legend the likes of Sinatra, Sammy and Dean Martin.
WILT CHAMBERLAIN AWARD
I know I just stated Too Short was the GOAT, but so is Ice Cube. Not so much for longevity, as much as for talent. Never has one rapper (not even Tupac) meant so much to music fans just because of what he says. Forget the music. When Ice Cube talks, people listen. "Laugh Now, Cry Later" was a Cube commentary that we haven't heard since the first Westside Connection album. When Ice Cube gets pissed off or has to get something off his chest fans are treated to some of the most hardcore and insightful views of life. Insight as it pertains to our everyday lives. Neighborhood stories, the prison system, presidential politics or whatever, nobody has ever laid it out better than Ice Cube. He's scored more points with the community than any other rapper, and continues to go where people won't.
LEGENDS AWARD
Not many rappers are so loved by two generations of fans as MC Eiht is. As long as "Menace 2 Society" is a favorite film, people will always hear "Streight Up Menace" by Eiht, one of the greatest works of songwriting in music period. However fans were introduced to MC Eiht—as a solo artist or through his group Compton's Most Wanted—that bond with fans always give energy to Eiht’s current projects, like his 2006 release "Affiliated". This album takes music back to 1990 while remaining current in its perspective. Fantastic and still at his best, you have to salute Eiht like the general he is
KWAME NKRUMA AWARD
The Coup are the most underrated group in music. Yet, that status has afforded them the ability to make pure uncut Hip Hop music that is remarkably social, political, Gangsta, soulful and whatever other gamut of human experience we go through as oppressed people. The Coup make music that is uplifting and socially engaging. "Pick a Bigger Weapon" is number two in my top five albums of 2006. Only Paris and Public Enemy can share that political distinction as evidenced on their awesome collaboration "Birth of a Nation".
TOO SHORT AWARD
Jay Z out of retirement to prove he's the best. You won't get much of an argument here. "Kingdome Come" isn't as good as the "Black Album" or the "Blueprint", but it is undoubtedly the work of a master. Plus, it's the first Hip Hop album targeted for 30-something-year-olds who don't want to party with the kids. Adult contemporary Hip Hop music for people my age.
KEEP AN EYE ON YOU LUGGAGE AWARD
Dem Hoodstarz are thieves. Straight up. When Band Aide and Scoot dropped their album, these fools stole any attention I was paying to other rappers. Just when I was ready to drift away from the Hyphy sound, Dem Hoodstarz put a new coat of paint on it. The sheer energy and excitement they have for making music goes a long way in all their songs. While some rappers are just doing records to collect a check, these fools really want to make a scene. And I'm all in.
QUINCY JONES AWARD
DJ Quik is all things great about music. In 2006 Quik put out three albums: "Trauma", the "Trauma Instrumentals", and "DJ Quik: Live from The House of Blues". All three are a tribute to his musicianship and really highlight the fact that Quik has always been well ahead of his peers when it comes to producing music. The Live album in particular is a great tribute to 16 years of fantastic music celebrated by the fans who love him most. The DVD is coming soon.
DJ QUIK AWARD
Hi Tek may be one of the best R&B producers that nobody knows. Not even himself. Some of this producer's tracks are used throughout the Chicago Stepping community or used for R&B mixes for upcoming singers. His album "Hi Teknology part 2" is brilliant. The music is just fantastic. Sadly Tek doesn't see that Beyonce, Monica, Brandy and all the rest of them could really use his sound to reinvigorate R&B.
RAKIM AWARD
Since JAY Z and Nas are more worldwide Hip Hop figures, Papoose is the lone sheriff holding it down for NYC. In a city full of rhyme masters, Papoose is really getting that push, because he knows how to make records. NYC cats can rhyme all night, but nobody else across the country really cares if you cannot produce a good album mixing lyrics, style and music. Papoose is not the savior, but he's damn good and the city's best hope. He represents NYC like no other.
JESSE JACKSON AWARD
Keep hope alive in the Bay Area. With a numerous amount of young talent popping up in the Oakland/San Francisco Bay Area, very few appear to have long promising careers like Mac Dre, Hiero, E-40 or Mac Mall. Out of this crop of young gunners, the sky is the limit for cats like Balance, Ya Boy, Traxamillion, Turf Talk, and the Pharmaceuticals. As far as ability on the mic, Turf Talk murdered the scene last year with his debut album, and committed further homicide with almost 30 cameos in 2006. The kid seemed to get better and better. Balance made a stunning debut with his album "Young and Restless". Very well rounded, it will be good to see where Balance grows from here. Ya Boy had a decent album with "Rookie of The Year" in 2005; then the kid when straight stupid on the Black Wallstreet album by Game and DJ NuJerzey Devil. Ya Boy repped for the Bay so hard he out-rapped Game, Juice and Clyde Carson on the amazing mixtape. Between Traxamillion and the Pharmaceuticals, the next generation of fly beatmakers is in good hands. As teenagers, the Hyphy sound can be translated into a vast array of music that can be soul, dance, hip hop or something yet to be defined. So far they have created bombs for Keak Da Sneak, E 40, The Team, Dem Hoodstarz, Messy Marv and host of others. Grow up slow fellas, I want to enjoy this era you usher in.
VIAGRA AWARD
Snoop Dogg only needs one hit to keep those good feelings going when he puts out a new project. "The Blue Carpet Treatment" is an extension of 2005's "Rhythm and Gangsta", but that soulful sound cannot be denied. Snoop isn't rapping anything new or innovative, but he's still the fucking big dog on the block. As long as he sounds cool, he'll be cool, and that is essentially what you are buying when you listen to Snoop. You are buying the Fonz. Here's to Snoop for staying hard for so many years.
CASPER THE FRIENDLY GHOST AWARD
Not quite sure what to make of Paul Wall. He's good and put a good UGK-ish album, but what's left? Aside from selling grills, Paul hasn't left his own personal mark on the culture that would endear him to people. He put out a decent album and was gone from memory. It's too bad that his celebrity didn't bring fans to listen to the Paul Wall & Chamillionaire albums from back in the day, because those were great works of art. That is the standard that I know Paul Wall from, but for those who don't, your music might as well be ghost. That foundation is important when going from indie to mainstream. Don't wash over your roots.
OVER AND OUT AWARDS
Hate to say it, but stick a fork in these fellas. Obie Trice could make it on the independent labels with ease, but commercially it's a wrap, homie. Mobb Deep: the G-Unit move didn't do anything to advance or maintain your status in the game. It actually took you down a few pegs. Over. Tha Liks: at least you got to call your last shot. You knew it was time and you went out with dignity and a good album. Cheers to J-Ro, Tash and E-Swift the Great (one of my favorite producers). Outkast put out a good movie and "Idlewild" was an ambitious project, just not very strong. The Outkast brand will continue to weaken if you two split or keep recording separately. But after so much great music over the years, you're due one so-so project. The Dogg Pound reuniting was one of the most uneventful moments of 2006. You guys last released an album together in 1996, since then it's been a series of mediocre solo projects and piecemeal DPG albums from Death Row or Daz. It's over fellas. You can't recapture that magic ten years later, move on to new projects and ideas. P-Diddy, please stop making albums and using yourself as the focal point of your record label. There is no way American Idol's Simon Cowell should be producing more pop stars than Bad Boy. You were an institution of good music and style, now you are just playing a bad game of catch up. And finally Lloyd Banks, who was the man along with Tony Yayo before G-Unit signed with a major. The G-Unit train has just about come to a halt. Your ride is over as a celebrity. It doesn't help that your personality was buried under the G-Unit movement when shit was rolling. Now people will never know.
CAN I GET MY ALBUM?
2006 produced a handful of really good album, but a slew of albums that really sucked bad. If 2007 holds any promise it will be the release of great music from artists like the following who would have made 2006 a great year had the music come out. UGK, Killer Mike, Scarface, Ghetto Mafia, Jayo Felony, Mystikal, Tim Smooth, Al Kapone, Smoke D, Collard Greens, Cool Breeze, Odd Squad/Devin the Dude, Nelly, WC, De La Soul, Raekwon, Keyshia Cole, R. Kelly, Del, Papoose.
SORRY YOU GOT SLEPT ON AWARD
I usually feel bad when very good albums fall under the radar for any number of reasons. Here are some albums that were pretty damn good, but people didn't necessarily buy. Method Man 421, Ghostface Killah's Fishscale, Chingy's Hoodstar, B.G.'s Heart of the Streets Vol. 1, Lupe Fiasco, Rhymefest's Blue Collar, Planet Asia's The Medicine.