Live From Sheckniculous Land

Music Is My Main Squeeze...THE OFFICIAL RELEASE!!!

2011-11-17T16:01:00.000-08:00

So...the year is 2002 and fresh off the heels of some TREMENDOUS instrumental/producer based projects from BBE's "Beat Generation" series (Pete Rock, Marley Marl, Jazzy Jeff, Jay Dee, DJ Spinna, King Britt, etc), I decided to head into the Meccalab to try my hand at my own slice of the pie. I had conceptualized the whole thing, with me on the cover in bed with a BAD chic, the bed COVERED with albums and 45s, and me sitting there with my portable record player and headphones on having a great time, while she's looking HELLA pissed (lol), hence the title "Music Is My Main Squeeze". I wanted to create something that told a story without necessarily being a "concept album", but I wanted to also put what I was feeling into each song, so the records I used had to reflect that as well.

The latter part of that year going into 2003 had me diggin for records that had the right vibe and constructing the soundscape for the project. This was also the time I decided to try and play more stuff, and rely on samples for coloring, as I was beginning to really get my feet wet with the world of Dance Music (you will hear the CLEAR naivete in these tracks ["Decatur Two-Steppin" and "Xhosa Hausa"], especially compared to my House remix of Jill Scott's "Golden" just one year later...lol) Once I got a few tunes I liked locked in, I put them on tape and would ride around to them in "Ol' Blue", my 1995 Grand Am, to just hear how it was coming together, and once I was comfy with what I had, it was then time to take it to the big studio, Metamusic, to start laying it down (shout to mumman Khalfani)...

Over the next couple of months, I had laid down all the ruff ideas for the project, except for one or two, when I got the phone call that NO producer wants to hear. Khalfani called to tell me that the studio's main hard drive crashed and a lot of sessions had come up missing during the retrieval process. Of those, were ALL OF THE "MIMMS" SESSIONS EXCEPT ONE, which was "It's Lonely @ The Top". Mind you, I was booked to pretty much mix the album THAT WEEKEND!!! Lucky (I guess) for me, I had made some pretty decent drafts, which are what you will hear below. I worked some EQ magic and did the best I could to make it as presentable as possible so that I could share it with you guys all these years later. I also threw in a few treats and interludes from the original CASSETTE as an added bonus. So, here you go, cats and kittens, my "beat album" from 2003, "Music Is My Main Squeeze"...

Music Is My Main Squeeze by Applejac

* BIG SHOUT TO @KELZTHAPOPSIPPA HITTIN ME WITH THE NICENESS ON THE ARTWORK. SALUTE!!!

My First "Score"...

2011-11-04T08:35:00.000-07:00

I remember when Brandi asked if I had some music that she could use for this "project" she was working on, and I was like "Yeah, whatcha need?" She was kinda vague and just told me she needed something for a backdrop. Had I known I was gonna be "scoring" her FUCKING EPK, I woulda made somethin NEW for her (lol). Nevertheless, here's a DOPE Electronic Press Kit for one of the most beautiful and talented people I have the honor of calling my friend. Ladies and gents, the photographic stylings of one Ms. Brandi Pettijohn (@brandiphotos), music by yours truly. Enjoy...

Brandi Pettijohn EPK: "Not Just A Person With A Camera" from Will F on Vimeo.

*strong shout to mumman Will "Waldorf" Feagins (@HighImpactDsgns) on the film side of town as well. Nice work as usual!!!

Shecky's Mood XVI: Words From My New Favorite Group (The Bird And The Bee)

2011-11-04T07:58:00.000-07:00

"Why, oh why do the birds do all the flying? It could be me. Taking everything Southern, the weather is warmer. Good place to be. Why, oh why do the bees need a beekeeper? Let them alone. Taking all of their honey, isn't it greedy leaving them none?"

The Magnificent Photography of Jonene Taddei

2011-10-09T21:08:00.000-07:00

You know, every now and then I run across some really great photography. I've been fortunate enough to know a lot of GREAT photogs throughout my career as a DJ, and this young lady is no different. Here's an amazing new collaboration between Urban Outfitters International Inc. and legendary urban photographer (and fellow Taurus), Philly's own Jonene Taddei.

Urban Outfitters International Inc. has released the first of four original Jonene Taddei photographic prints as part of their Fall 2011 home décor, wall art, collection. All four prints encompass the “art” of music, displayed through the artfully vivid and authentic still photography of Jonene Taddei. The debut piece, “12 Inch”, is a 20x30 stretched canvas, and retails for $49.00 (USD) http://urbout.co/nftIHp. The wall art will be sold exclusively at Urban Outfitters in-store, in the U.S. and the U.K., as well as online at UrbanOutfitters.com. Jonene Taddei has become a modern day visual anthropologist for music, fashion, and pop culture, with a growing fan base of artists and celebrities including, Questlove & The Roots, Nas, DJ Jazzy Jeff, De La Soul, and many more.

Check out the flix and support...

SHECKS-CLUSIVE!!!!!

2011-09-06T10:19:00.000-07:00

Courtesy of the homie DJ Center, here's an EXCLUSIVE, ONE WEEK ONLY, FREE DOWNLOAD of him and Middle Child's single "In A Song", remixed by yours truly, from the upcoming "Everything In Time REMIXED" album. Ya'll enjoy...

In a Song (Applejac's Sounds Of Mecca Remix) by DJ Center

Shecky's Mood XV: Week In Review Aug 21-28, 2011

2011-08-28T07:09:00.000-07:00

Wow...where do I begin? Last week this time I was preparing for the listening party for my debut EP, "Playin Favorites". I was extremely nervous and had been calling my friends for encouragement. So many questions in my mind ("What if nobody shows up?", "What if nobody likes the album?", "What will the reviews be like after Tuesday?" etc), I was stressing out, but it was also a lot of excitement as well. For some perspective, "let's take a sec to think back..." -Buckshot, Crooklyn Dodgers

The initial inspiration for this project probably started around 2006 or so, when I heard Pharoah Sanders's "You Got To Have Freedom". I had just purchased a Motif with the SOLE intent of improving my musicianship (I even had it in a different room in my house from my samplers and records lol), and that was the first tune I decided to tackle. After learning the chords, I gave it a go and it came out dope. I decided it was a keeper and got excited to see what else I could come up with, so I just started going through my records and picking out songs I liked and teaching myself how to play them. I've always played by ear, so it took a really long time to get the tunes down, but eventually I'd get it together and as a rule they were pretty decent interpolations. I DEFINITELY wasn't thinking about releasing any of those tunes at the time because I didn't think I was a good enough musician to pull it off. Plus I was also trying my hand at House remixes and other stuff, but I kinda kept it in the back of my mind to revisit the idea whenever I heard something I liked. Fast forward back to 2011. The date, August 21st...

The 1st Hit Listening Lounge: I decided that since it was such a noteworthy occasion (at least for me) I'd spruce things up a little and wear a shirt and tie for the event. I mean, it's my DEBUT PROJECT for cryin out loud!!! I ALSO decided to show my locs, which is something I VERY seldom do, hardly EVER in public. I arrived to Moods Music, CDs in tow, to a chorus of "awwwwwwwww"s from summa the female homies in the spot who had never seen me wear a shirt and tie, and the fellas was like "awwwwwwwww shyt...AJ rockin a shirt ANNNNNND a tie on they ass!!!". I hafta admit that was kinda cool. My friend Ebony (aka Cuddin Poot) came by to put my hair up in some sort of concoction so i wouldn't wind up sittin on em (my locs are 20 yrs old, so you can prolly imagine...lol), again, to a nice round of compliments. I was still very nervous because I still had the interview to do with Jodine Dorce, who, since we are good friends, offered a certain level of comfort, but also knew enuff about me PERSONALLY to REALLY go in on a nigga (thanks Jo for keepin it light...lol). Plus, NOBODY except Darryl (owner of Moods Music) and a select few others had even HEARD the EP, as I had given it to a couple people and hadn't gotten any feedback yet, so all eyes were on me as the Q&A began. The interview went swimmingly, as Jodine conducted a most professional and comfortable atmosphere. I think everyone could see I was kinda nervous, but once I warmed up, things moved along nicely. It was a packed house (I'm only going by what I'm told because I don't think I looked up once during the interview...lol) and the people seemed to dig the tunes, so it turned out to be a really nice look for me. After I signed a few CDs (I KNOW RIGHT??? AUTOGRAPHS, NIGGA!!!! LOL), a lot of us went down to nearby Cafe Circa for Salah Ananse's "Sunday Sunset Sessions", where me and DJ Phaze were guest DJs. It felt good to see so many people that had heard or heard about the album come thru and show love, even INDIA ARIE stopped me and asked me for a CD (HUGE!!!!). I played my set, hung out for a bit and headed home. Had a release to plan for in two days...

Tuesday, August 23, 2011: RELEASE DAY!!!! I was having internet trouble, so the initial midnight release kinda fell thru. Actually, I had to get up first thing Tuesday morning to go to McDonald's to use their free wi-fi to post the EP on Bandcamp (if I NEVER see another hash brown again, I'm good...lol). With crisis averted, it was time to send my baby off into the real world and hope it does well. Posts on my Facebook and Twitter accounts set the party off and I maxed out the MONTHLY 200 free downloads THE FIRST DAY, so I had to create a new link for the EP to continue the free downloads (see "alternate link" on previous post. Free downloads on Bandcamp will resume Sept 15th). It REALLY felt good to know that so many people were diggin' it. The support shown on Twitter and Facebook throughout the rest of the week was really dope and I am truly grateful, but it was NOTHING compared to the news I would receive yesterday...

@jfinesse1911: @uncleshecky (that's me...lol) congrats on your first week of sales. My dude is #1 y'all at @MoodsMusic!!!

wait...WHAT???!?!?!?!?!?!!! NUMBER ONE???? I couldn't believe it!!!!! Never in a hundred lifetimes would I have thought MY record would have done that...NEVER!!! I was so happy, I sent everyone on the album a text to tell them the good news as well. Of ALL the CDs that move in that store (and believe me, Moods be SELLIN some music), MINE did the most??? IN IT'S FIRST WEEK??? I could do nothing but fall to my knees and praise JAH ALMIGHTY in that precise moment. It was MOST relevant...

So, here I am, a week later, reflecting on the whole thing, and it's STILL very surreal. I'm still so overwhelmed by the love that the project is still getting, through posts on various blogs, and airplay from Los Angeles to Tanzania (yes...AFRICA!!!). I am most humbled and grateful to ALL who have downloaded online and copped at Moods Music as well. To finally have something tangible in the public with my name on it (after various musical disappointments and some devastating personal setbacks), and to have it recieved with favorable reviews (so far...lol), has revived my spirits in ways NONE of you can imagine. That said, be on the lookout for the OFFICIAL releases of the "Slot Machine 3: Playin' The Rush" mixtape, and the 2003 beat album, "Music Is My Main Squeeze", remixes for DJ Center, Duocity, Windimoto, and Teri Tobin in the coming weeks/months, production work with Sonya Mcguire and Jessica Johnson (remember those names...), collabo mixtapes with DJ Rahdu ("Gettin To The Good Part") and also Soulbounce.com (ROYGBIV: Keep Bouncin'), along with the usual weekly Soulful House goodies on my show, Jac Of All Trades on www.handzonradio.fm (2:30-4:30 pm EST), and my monthly podcast, "Shecky's Groovy Grab Bag" on www.soulandjazz.com. More to come so stay tuned...

Shouts: Big up to Music Addikts, Harmony In Life, Moods Music, Jodine's Corner, Grown Folks Music, Eternal Sol Promotions, DJ Phaze, Angel Wings Music, Chante Lagon at Creative Loafing, Latoya Brown for helping me with the press release (thank you SO much), my mgr, Irize Refined Earth (thanks for sticking in there with me, I think things will start picking up from here...lol), Oba's Angels (@Free2BVee #Agent99, @thatwritingchic @Zion_Bound) for always keeping things light in the office lol, Salah and Nina for giving me a do-over at Sunday Sunset Sessions (lol), Butta at Soulbounce, Andrea Newman, Tracy Freeman at OTV, the FAM fam (Marcia, Natalie, JB), my DAWGS DJ Jaycee, Javon Styles, and DJ Deliver for comin thru to the listening party (I know you all are very busy, so thanks for taking time out. Salute), mumman K-Lock for looking out for me on MORE than a few occasions, D-Mo, Abby and Chris at Choice FM in Tanzania for giving me my FIRST spins in The Motherland, Morgan Rhodes for rockin "You Meet My Approval" on her show in L.A., Victoria Ford with Centric/The Couch Sessions for being a good friend and also helping me get some exposure where I may not have gotten it otherwise, Chaka B, Zo! (thanks for peepin the ruffs mayne...lol), Denny Lavish for a WONDERFUL mastering job, to Brian Hurst for playing it on his show and gettin me some UK love, Jolye Toi for helping me recreate the classic Herbie Hancock cover (we definitely hafta do that other idea for the next one), Melba Searcy for bringing that photo to life, Kelz Tha Pop Sippa for designing the BOMB flyer, Ahmed Sirour for really getting me to take this project seriously, and to everyone who has supported and/or spread the word about the EP. You are most appreciated.

Lastly, but most certainly not least, (I know this is a bit long-winded, but I SWEAR I'm almost finished...lol), to the AMAZINGLY TALENTED ARTISTS who contributed their time and incredible talents to this project (Baldhead Queen, Tonya Dyson, Reggie B, Ramona, Rogiers, Carmen Rodgers, Jessica Johnson): It is with the greatest respect that I salute you, for you transformed my musical backdrops into the lovely finished products we were able to present to the listeners. It is my most sincere hope that through this project you have captured some new fans, that can now witness the greatness I've known for quite some time now. I am furthermore, and ABOVE ALL, honored to call you friend, brothers and sisters. I am always available to you all. JAH be praised.

*In closing, to all affected by Hurricane Irene, our prayers go forth. May JAH extend his hand of mercy and protection, and also healing to those who have lost loved ones. SELAH!

AND NOW, WITHOUT FURTHER ADO...

2011-08-23T06:21:00.000-07:00

Well ya'll...It's taken almost two years and I've experienced a lot of disappointments and setbacks, but I am so incredibly proud to present to you my debut producer project, "Playin' Favorites. It features vocals from some of the most talented voices, known and up and coming, in the independent soul music scene today (The Baldhead Queen, Tonya Dyson, Reggie B, Ramona, Rogiers, Carmen Rodgers, Jessica Johnson). There are so many emotions I feel now I that I have my first OFFICIAL release (I've had THREE projects shelved since 2001...smh), but I think I'll let the music speak for itself. The digital version is available for FREE DOWNLOAD, and the CD version is available at Moods Music, and features two bonus cuts not available on the digital copy. ENJOY!!!!

Applejac Presents: Playin' Favorites by Applejac

Alternate link: http://www.sendspace.com/file/8r48hy

I'D LIKE TO THANK EVERYBODY WHO HAS EVER SPOKEN A KIND WORD, OFFERED ASSISTANCE, OR HAS EVER BELIEVED IN ME WHEN I DIDN'T EVEN BELIEVE IN MYSELF, THIS PROJECT IS JUST AS MUCH YOURS AS IT IS MINE. MAY JAH CONTINUE TO BLESS YOUR LIVES. THIS IS JUST THE BEGINNING!!!!!

REEEEEEEEEEEMIIIIIIIIIIIXXXXXXXX...

2011-08-15T13:57:00.000-07:00

What up ya'll. In the midst of preparing for the upcoming release of my debut project, "Playin Favorites" on August 23rd, I found time to squeeze in a remix for my mans Eric Roberson and the legendary Chubb Rock for their "Summertime Anthem". Hope ya'll like it...

Eric Roberson -Summertime Anthem feat. Chubb Rock (Applejac's Day Party remix) by Applejac

Leakage...

2011-07-22T11:50:00.000-07:00

What up ya'll!!! I'm back again with some newness. I know summa ya'll have wondered where I've been (no Bobby Caldwell..lol), but I've been HARD at work finishing my upcoming EP, "Playin Favorites". It's a project that has been over a year in the making and I'm so VERY excited to finally share it with you soon (Aug. 23rd to be exact), but until then, here's a joint that kinda came together on the humble. I was messing around in the Meccalab tryna get a vibe when I started playing around with the chords for Black Star's "Little Brother". The more I played around with the tune, I was like, "sounds kinda cool, lemme keep it and see what I can do widdit." Fast forward a couple weeks later and I was having a Skype discussion with Jessica Johnson, who I wanted to get on the EP REALLY badly and told her about the tune, she was like "I could do a quick freestyle on it since we couldn't do somethin on the album". I was like, "BET!", and sent her the track. A couple days later...

What A Mess feat. Jessica Johnson by Applejac

A little "Walkin" music...

2011-05-26T10:18:00.000-07:00

I remember hearing this tune on the radio some months ago and IMMEDIATELY loving this joint. One day I came across the acapella and decided to do a remix for it. I had initially planned to do a SALSA remix, but somehow it morphed into this rootsy, dubbed out kinda thing. Sounded good, so I kept it...lol

Mary Mary- Walkin' (Applejac's Skankin In Space remix) by Applejac

A li'l leakage...

2011-05-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't really been blogging much lately, but it's been for a GREAT reason. I've been hard at work on my EP, "Playin' Favorites", which is now in the home stretch. For those of you who are familiar with my man ZO!'s "Just Visiting" series, it's cut from a similar cloth, except I deal more with replaying original samples/sampled tunes, along with some of my other "favorite" tunes, which are sort of obscure (at least in my opinion...lol). The release is tentatively mid-late Summer, as there are a couple of late additions to this already SUPER TALENTED list of collaborators, which include Tonya Dyson, Reggie B, Carmen Rodgers, and some other surprises to come. I'm really excited about what's happening these days and can't wait to share more, but for now, enjoy this li'l leak to get you ready for the full length...

Applejac -Brewin' by Applejac

P.S. this song will NOT be on the album. Only 100 free downloads...GO!!!!

Shecky's Mood XVI: Remembering Jay Dee...

2011-02-07T10:41:00.000-08:00

I've never been one to claim that I've known Dilla, hung out with him, went record shopping with him, nunna that. But I WILL say that next to Curtis Mantronik, Pete Rock and DJ Spinna, he is one of my most tangible influences as a producer. There are so many musical memories that I could share about the first time I heard a particular Jay Dee beat, particularly, hearing "Still Shining", "Ill Vibe (Ummah remix)", "I Try (Jay Dee remix)", etc, as I'm sure we all can, but there are TWO moments that stand out more than the rest...

Dateline (circa 1997): I was hangin out with my mans Jaycee after our customary bowling session one night, and he had been telling me that he had some new Slum Village on a tape he had gotten from a friend. Up to that point, I knew about Jay Dee through his work with The Pharcyde, ATCQ, and a few others, but the only SLUM song I had heard was "Get Dis Money" from a movie soundtrack. He turns the tape on and the first tune has this Tom Browne loop on it, pretty run of the mill "Funkin For Jamaica" shyt, but...THE FUCKIN DRUMS, even on a 12th generation copy of a cassette tape were absolutely phenomenal. The way he held the groove, both as a producer AND MC on the tune was dope (mind you this is just the first song..lol)!!! So we get further into the tape and then...it happened. That "OHHHHHHHHHHHH MYYYYYYYYYYYYY GAAAAAAWWWWWWWWWWWD" feeling we all had when we heard "Players" for the first time. I know for a FACT that we listened to that shyt EASILY for like an hour straight. It was the most eerily beautiful shyt I had ever heard in my life. I still have my copy of that tape and will cherish it forever.

Dateline (circa 1999-2000) I'm riding in the rain headed to the BMG offices to pick up some vinyl with the homie Jaycee, and he's like, "Yo, I got the new Common album, but don't tell nobody...". I was like "Aight. let's hear it..." There was something about the look on his face when he put the CD in that told me that I was in for some shyt (cuz I think all I had heard was "The 6th Sense" at the time). So we ridin on the highway bouncin and shyt and I'm just hearing the most ethereal shyt coming through the speakers. Nag Champa was so next level, the backwards guitar, the spacey sounds, THE DRUMS, it was just great stuff. The CD he had (if I remember correctly) wasn't sequenced in the same order as the final retail copy, so I think "The Questions" was the next tune, then "Thelonious" (that got some rewind action in the whip that day too), and then...IT HAPPENED AGAIN!!! When "The Light" came on, and I heard the hook w/the scratches and all that, I understood what that look some 20 mins earlier was about. For a moment, JUST A MOMENT(lol), Pete Rock had been gently removed from the top of the totem pole to allow one Mr. James Yancey to stand atop my personal Mt. Rushmore, and it was all good...

In closing, I've had countless other memories like this listening to his music, as I'm sure you all have had as well, and it is pretty safe to say we lived to witness Hip-Hop's Stevie Wonder in our lifetime. I always looked at Dilla as that good kid from the neighborhood that you just wanna see do well in life because he's, well...such a good kid. The love he had for the music comes through CRYSTAL CLEAR in every beat we've been blessed to hear, and I think it translated to the people who worked with him, and also to us as consumers and fans. I think to make the claim that "J Dilla Changed My Life" is definitely not my place to emote, as I was never able to meet him, and I think that a statement like that should only be reserved for those who have come into personal contact with him (just my opinion...). I CAN, however say, with NO APOLOGY, that Jay Dee changed the way I listened to AND MADE music, and as a by product, the MUSIC changed my life. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm gonna go have some donuts. 1L

"J.Dilla: Still Shining" from B.Kyle on Vimeo.

and here's my own personal tribute piece, "Real Dilla Quotes (Nothin Like This)". Enjoy...
Real Dilla Quotes (Nothin Like This) by Applejac

Happy Bornday, James Dewitt Yancey. Rest In Uhuru...ASE-O!!!

Shecky's Mood XVI: My Life, Dec. 2009-Dec. 2010

2010-12-08T22:44:00.000-08:00

Ode To Broken Things

Things get broken
at home
like they were pushed
by an invisible, deliberate smasher.
It's not my hands
or yours
It wasn't the girls
with their hard fingernails
or the motion of the planet.
It wasn't anything or anybody
It wasn't the wind
It wasn't the orange-colored noontime
Or night over the earth
It wasn't even the nose or the elbow
Or the hips getting bigger
or the ankle
or the air.
The plate broke, the lamp fell
All the flower pots tumbled over
one by one. That pot
which overflowed with scarlet
in the middle of October,
it got tired from all the violets
and another empty one
rolled round and round and round
all through winter
until it was only the powder
of a flowerpot,
a broken memory, shining dust.

And that clock
whose sound
was
the voice of our lives,
the secret
thread of our weeks,
which released
one by one, so many hours
for honey and silence
for so many births and jobs,
that clock also
fell
and its delicate blue guts
vibrated
among the broken glass
its wide heart
unsprung.

Life goes on grinding up
glass, wearing out clothes
making fragments
breaking down
forms
and what lasts through time
is like an island on a ship in the sea,
perishable
surrounded by dangerous fragility
by merciless waters and threats.

Let's put all our treasures together
-- the clocks, plates, cups cracked by the cold --
into a sack and carry them
to the sea
and let our possessions sink
into one alarming breaker
that sounds like a river.
May whatever breaks
be reconstructed by the sea
with the long labor of its tides.
So many useless things
which nobody broke
but which got broken anyway

Pablo Neruda

*A strong shout to @jonubian for turning me one to such an amazing poet. Salute, Ma...

Shecky's Mood XV: Ye's REAL Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy (My take on the Kanye West/Quincy Jones "comparison")

2010-11-23T17:17:00.000-08:00

Amidst all the hype surrounding Kanye West's newest release, "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy", there have been some rather ERRONEOUS comparisons to the LEGENDARY Quincy Jones. This seems to have stemmed from an interview with Q, where the parallels were drawn between him and Kanye West in terms of artists wanting to work with him, to which he replied that Ye was "just a rapper", to which some people took offense and felt that maybe Quincy was shittin on Hip-Hop. I, on the other hand, understood EXACTLY what Mr. Jones meant, and agree WHOLEHEARTEDLY. Kanye, AT THIS POINT IN HIS CAREER, cannot boast the same caliber of collabos with all-time legends OUTSIDE OF HIS GENRE (note: Quincy Jones produced "It's My Party" for Leslie Gore. This is just ONE example of many). I decided to voice my thoughts on Twitter (@uncleshecky), and what began as a mini-rant, turned into a very informative and (hopefully) enlightening convo with my mans (fellow producer/DJ) Vitamin D (@tallhomeyvita). I'll post the ORIGINAL rant first and then show our discussion after. Enjoy...

@uncleshecky: Hold up...HOLD. THE. FUCK. UP!!! Who signed off on even putting Kanye West in the same STRATOSPHERE as Quincy Jones??? Ok, where's Ashton???
@uncleshecky: "I'll wait..." -Katt Williams (lol)
@uncleshecky:...And if we MUST put a Hip-Hop producer's name in the Quincy Jones convo, RZA, @djquik & @djspinna IMMEDIATELY come to mind. Thanks...
@uncleshecky: Let's also add @kingbritt @Kdope50 and James Yancey to that list. Again, I'll wait...
@uncleshecky: Oh yeah...did you guys forget about @djjazzyjeff215??? I think THOSE guys deserve that mention above Kanye West...
@uncleshecky: In closing, until Mr. West can spawn a whole STYLE (like ALL of these guys have done), please ya'll: CUT. IT. THE. FUCK. OUT!! #thatisall
@uncleshecky: by the way, do any of you young Ye crotch chokers happen to remember an album by this cat named @chocboywunda (Pete Rock) called "Soul Survivor"???
@uncleshecky: Erick Sermon belongs in this discussion as well, even though he didn't work with a whole lotta singers...
@uncleshecky: oh yeah, here's some food for thought...name me 10 of your favorite Ye tunes and I'm willing to bet HALF of em were produced by SOMEONE ELSE!!! *drops mic...grabs 40oz of 4 Loko* (not really, but...)
@uncleshecky: note that NONE of my tweets have said that I thought Ye was wack. I just think the Q comparisons are just a WEEEEEEEEE bit presumptuous... (rant over)

@tallhomeyvita: @uncleshecky i disagree. quincy's big hits were written & damn near produced by leon ware or rod temp.i think kanye is on that level
@uncleshecky: @tallhomeyvita GREAT POINT, but once you throw in the OSTs , TV themes, and his PRIOR body of work, there's STILL no comparison to me...
@tallhomeyvita: @uncleshecky he had other producers ideas & gave them HIS sound very similar to Quincy. 4 dope albums that push the creative envelope. IDK!
@uncleshecky: @tallhomeyvita well now Vita, if we're gonna talk NUMBERS here...lol
@tallhomeyvita: @uncleshecky does pete have four dope albums under his belt?does any other hip hop producer beside primo have 4 dope albums produced by him?
@tallhomeyvita: @uncleshecky dre is the only other guy i can think of.
@uncleshecky: @tallhomeyvita again...not saying he's wack, NOR that he isn't CAPABLE, just that RIGHT NOW that bar is TOO HIGH and TOO HEAVY, dig?
@uncleshecky: @tallhomeyvita Again, GREAT POINT, but I think where we will disagree is that cats like Pete and Preem DEFINED AN ERA. Ye can't say that yet
@uncleshecky: @tallhomeyvita and I STILL say that @djspinna @djjazzyjeff215 and/or @djquik are higher on the "Hip-Hop producer/Quincy Jones" list than Ye
@tallhomeyvita: @uncleshecky and kanye didn't??? the bol had everybody samplin soul loops on 45 with the vocal sample when that shit was so called "played"
@uncleshecky: @tallhomeyvita your points are VALID, but AGAIN had RZA not done it damn near 10 YEARS BEFORE, it woulda been GROUNDBREAKING!!! lol
@tallhomeyvita: @uncleshecky i knew you was gonna bring up rza! lol he arguably influenced rap the same way kanye is doin. thats why kanye features him.
@tallhomeyvita: @uncleshecky i'll give you jeff but as much as i love Quik i can't give you that. Spinna ain't even got a whole record under his belt.
@uncleshecky: @tallhomeyvita Spinna's got TONS: The Beyond Real shyt, Heavy Beats vol 1, Here To There, Intergalactic Soul...
@uncleshecky: @tallhomeyvita and I ain't just biggin up @djspinna cuz he's the homie, son catalog is OFFICIAL!!!! #purdperntblank
@tallhomeyvita: @uncleshecky my kids don't know who spinna is. they know everybody else we mentioned. no disrespect to spinna but cmon man!
@uncleshecky: @tallhomeyvita my argument was NEVER about who was the most POPULAR, I'M basing it on how evenly they all stack up to Q is all...
@tallhomeyvita: @uncleshecky i say quik dre and kanye are the closest to q. i mean the boy kanye got real french horns and violas & shit on the record.
@tallhomeyvita: @uncleshecky great convo tho! a nice way to awaken from a nap.
@uncleshecky: @tallhomeyvita preeshate the intelligent diatribe as well. You know how we do. Respect!! *daps*

Big up the homie Vitamin D with bringing some strong INFORMED points to the table (as always), also to @TheRemnant_, @basisXmgmt, @Roqwel, @KoolKila, @AbuelitaTalula, @FlyGirlTone, @jarobione, @WarArkEnt, @thequartermaine, @OneNastyNupe and everyone who RT'd...1L

Sneak Peek XV: Adidas Originals Porsche Design SP1

2010-11-01T16:13:00.000-07:00

When I saw these on NiceKicks.com, I was like, "Word...these are some slick chumpys right here!!" Definitely dope on the cool out tip, while still catching the eye of all the true sneakerheads. Not a bad grab either for $100. Anyway, here's what the people at Nice Kicks had to say about em...

"Can’t afford a Porsche? Don’t worry, neither can we. If you can’t drive one you can at least wear one with the adidas Originals Porsche Design SP1. This sleek low top drops in two new colorways for the fall season. Grey and navy based colorways use progressive lines on this lux silo. While the gas pedal inspired outsole is catered towards the make of its namesake, you can rock these in whatever you're pushing..."

To my man Wale aka Mr. Three Stripes...ROCK ON!!! 1L

Red Bull 45s: A3C Edition (Who says 7" isn't enough?? LOL)

2010-10-31T16:20:00.000-07:00

When I first saw the flyer and saw my name mentioned as one of the "Four Legendary DJs", I must admit, I was very proud of myself. It was the FIRST time my name had been associated with the term "legendary", and it felt pretty damn good. But then something sorta shook me and said "Son, do you KNOW who you're playing with??? These are some fucking DONS in this shyt... You gotta SHOW AND PROVE!!!" Needless to say, reality set in and I knew I had to really get busy if I wanted to turn heads at this year's Red Bull event. Over the span of my career, I've had the chance to become friends with all of the participants (Rhettmatic, Diamond D, DJ Scratch, DJ Evil Dee & Rob Swift), so for ME, it was just a chance to play some records with the homies, but I ALSO knew that with me being the "unknown" of the bunch, and this party being on my "home turf", I HAD to represent. I had a SLIGHT edge on the others, as I had done the opening set and hosted this event the previous year, so I kinda knew the format and how it flowed, but as ALL crate diggas know: IT ALL COMES DOWN TO THE RECORDS!!! So it was off to the storage space to grab "the little records"...

Not really having an idea of what I wanted to do, I just grabbed all my 45s and brought em home to look thru and see what would and wouldn't make the cut. Also, as fate would have it (good ol' fate...lol), Bob Richards (famed ATL record dealer) was having his twice a year record sale the week before (there have been MONUMENTAL dig sessions at these sales). I called him to see if he had any 45s available, and he told me that the ENTIRE DOWNSTAIRS WAS NOTHING BUT 45s, so I knew I was gonna hafta carve out 2 full days to look thru them all (which I did). I came away with some really nice gems and added them to my arsenal for the party. In the days leading up to A3C (annual indie Hip-Hop music festival held in ATL), a little fun-loving trash talking ensued on Twitter (Scratch, you a funny dude..lol), which added to the fun for all the DJs involved, and it also got the people excited to see what we were coming with (as NONE of us really divulged what we had in our stash...lol).

So, Friday rolls around and, well...SEE FOR YOURSELF!!!

Many thanks to Ryan, Janet, Kecia, and the rest of the staff of Red Bull, and the A3C staff for making it such a fun event. Shout out to the homie 9th Wonder and the JAMLA/IWWMG crew for coming thru as well. Also, big up to Agent 45 (who SMASHED the opening set!!!), Rhettmatic, DJ Evil Dee, Diamond D, Jam Master Scratch, and Rob Swift for making it a legendary nite. For many, it was the highlight of the festival, and I can only imagine it getting bigger and deffer next year. 1L

Shecky's Mood XIV: So It ISN'T Just Me...GOOD!!!

2010-09-27T21:53:00.000-07:00

Here's something I found from the pages of singleblackmale.com. It sort of summarizes my current outlook on love/dating since my most recent breakup. I think this is about as honest and candid a diatribe as you will get from us fellas, so ladies I'd pay at least a LITTLE attention (lol). Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Slim Jackson...

"I’ve been sitting on this post because I didn’t wanna come across as emo, lose all my followers and FB friends, then have to ride my scooter off a cliff. Like many of you out there, I’ve been hurt before. And each time that it’s happened, I’ve grown colder and awkwarder (I make up words). This doesn’t mean I walk around bodying heaux and not calling them after I vanish into the night. I’m far from that type. What I mean is that I keep finding items falling out of my suitcase as I walk away from the baggage claim at Mypast International Airport.

There was a point in time where I thoughtlessly did thoughtful things. There was a point in time where women began with my trust and it was theirs to lose. There was a point in time where I didn’t have to ask subtle questions about whereabouts or who some guy was that she hugged for a millisecond too long. There was a time where I didn’t expend so much energy trying to find the tragic flaw upfront rather than just letting things progress naturally and learning along the way.

I openly acknowledge that I don’t have the emotional resilience that women are obviously known for. Most men don’t whether they admit it or not and that’s why it takes us so long to love or at least get to a point where we are open and honest and you don’t have to rack your brain figuring out how we feel about you. So yeah, I do get over things and eventually bounce back, but it takes a helluva lot longer than I’d like it to. Let me talk a bit specifically about heartbreak though.

Heartbreak, whatever the reason, has been one of the biggest bullies in my life. It’s been one of the few things that has made me not wanna go to school, work, or anywhere else other than my bed or couch. Heartbreak has taken my emotional lunch money one too many times and left me quick to put a hand over the pocket on my shirt that covers the most valuable part of me. Heartbreak has given me more nightmares than alcohol and benadryl. It has drained me more than the heat of a mid-summer day and left me infinitely re-charging. It.Sucks.

No. I don’t need a tissue. I’m fine. But anyway…

Am I moping around looking discouraged because of things that happened in my past? Nope. Am I listening to old school R&B and asking myself why oh why? Nope. Am I struggling in my ability to find and maintain a productive relationship where the only thing I worry about is making sure she’s happy? Yeah, I am. Do I find myself feeling equally as unfulfilled after sex as I did beforehand because I realized I don’t care about the woman laying next to me? Yeah, that happens too. Am I more ambiguous in describing how I feel now as a result of past mistakes and pain? You know it. That whole “love like you’ve never been hurt” doesn’t get a seat at my dinner table. I’ll continue to go about it cautiously until that special woman that makes me a better person makes the whole idea of heartbreak an afterthought. How’s that for optimism?

I say all this to say y’all aren’t the only ones that get your feelings hurt and your emotions rattled. Just remember that the guy you can’t get to commit, can’t get to tell you how he feels, and can’t seem to make sense of him may have taken a traumatizing ride on the emotional roller coaster. You have 2 choices. Stay and work with him or be on to the next one. And if you’re one of the people out there being shady to a good man, you’re probably messing up the game for at least 5 to 10 women. Love changes a man and it isn’t always for the better particularly when heartbreak is involved.

That’s all I got.

I really don’t need a tissue and if you keep asking I’ll punch you in the face."

Sneak Peek XIV: Adidas Fortitude mid

2010-09-10T09:29:00.000-07:00

Word em up, I'm REALLY feelin these for the Fall season. Definitely somethin you could rock with some khakis or jeans and still keep your fly casual element intact. Here's what the good people at www.crookedtongues.com had to say about em...

A new adidas silhouette that looks like the bastard son of their last two decades, the Fortitude is a great shoe. Offering off-road/EQT/basketball and ZX styling in one design, the forefoot has a distinctly ZX Torsion cut, there's some interesting 'X' stitching and plastic eyelets alongside the concealed D-rings, perforated 3-Stripes, coloured 3M and an incredibly lightweight, comfortable fit, set on a technical sole with an interesting Dellinger webbed heel. It's a strange shoe, blending bulk with a slimmer running cut, but we're already big fans.

Sneak Peek XIII: Adidas Star Wars Conductor Hi

2010-09-07T16:26:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a minute since I've done one of these, but it's about to be Fall and I got some goodies I plan to bring out for the changing of the seasons. We'll start with these...

Here's what the peoples at www.crookedtongues.com had to say about em:

At CT HQ, we're big fans of the adidas Conductor. The puffy panels and overlapping collar strap made the Conductor a classic, and the 1987 release of these shoes upped the ante in a golden age of high tops. This version is part of the adidas Star Wars collection, with a bizarre but very effective Stormtrooper university collegiate theme. A degree in the Dark Side proves to be the best part of this collection to date...

More to come, but groove on these in the meantime...

Shecky's Mood XIII: My "How To Do Atlanta" segment

2010-08-30T22:57:00.000-07:00

Last week, I was interviewed by the Bon Vivant herself, Kisha Solomon for her "How To Do Atlanta" docuseries. She asked me to give my views on music/DJing and stuff. Thanks to Kisha for conducting a most comfortable and professional interview, Darryl at Moods Music for providing the venue and backdrop for the segment and the funny ass camerawoman (I wish I could remember her name) with the dirty jokes (lol). Enjoy...

Shecky's Mood XII: The End Of An Era

2010-08-18T12:06:00.000-07:00

Fat Beats Stores To Close

by BIRTHPLACE MAGAZINE on AUGUST 18, 2010

In perhaps another sad sign of the times, the legendary Fat Beats record stores in both New York City and Los Angeles, will be closing next month. In a story onXXLMag.com, Fat Beats president Joe Abajian calls it an evolution as opposed to a demise, and is quoted as saying, “We’re proud of our legacy and will continue to re-invent ourselves. For now, we’ll see you online at FatBeats.com.” The website, and the wholesale area of the business, will remain operational as Fat Beats looks to alternate options for brick and mortar locations.

In honor of their legacy and long-standing commitment to DJs and hip hop heads, Fat Beats is planning a series of “tribute parties” in NY and LA, and will hold sales on remaining inventory.

The stores, which have been in existence since 1994, were often the only source for underground hip hop records, and in recent years, one of the few places DJs could still purchase vinyl. Often, the stores would hold in-store signings for both underground and more established artists.

Visit www.fatbeats.com to stay informed regarding their transition.

To add my own PERSONAL statement, there were many memories I can recall from visiting both the NY and ATL stores (too many to name), but there was an UNDENIABLE spirit of Hip-Hop there, and it was one of the few places that the up and coming indies could intermingle with the already established without any pretense or bullshit snobbery (from BOTH sides) you'd more than likely see these days. Earlier on Twitter, Pharoahe Monch posed an interesting question: "Is the closing of Fat Beats a sign of DJs embracing technology, or lack of support from the fans?" I would argue that it's prolly a bit of both, but when things like this happen in Hip-Hop, usually we only have ourselves to blame. With vinyl sales going UP in the last couple of years, one must NOW examine if we as "lovers of Hip-Hop" were taking part in that upswing. Judging by this sad news, probably not...

*Big up Cognito, Joe, Eclipse, Amir, House Shoes, J Rocc, Rhettmatic, and ALL the other employees, MCs, Producers, DJs, Crate Diggers I've had the pleasure to meet during my visits to Fat Beats...SALUTE!!!

Shecky's Mood XI: Tryin On Some New Clothes

2010-08-16T13:15:00.000-07:00

What up peoples? I know it's been a GOOD minute since I've come thru to rap with you guys, but I figure now is as good a time as any. As you can see, I've switched up the look (lemme know how ya'll like it), and I figured I'd get you guys up to speed with what's been going on with me over the last few months...

April:

Since my last post, I've traveled to Memphis and Little Rock for what I called "Shecky's Mid-South Invasion", and spun parties for the release of the acclaimed "Timeless" DVD (one love to Tonya Dyson and the Neosoulville.com crew for making that happen). Also while in Memphis, I spun with renowned DJs Sabine and Funke for the "Get Down" party (had some BANGIN Ethiopian food too).

May:

(note: when referencing "the city", I'm speaking of San Francisco. When referring to "the town", I'm speaking of Oakland)

My first trip to Cali was EPIC!!! I called it my "From The A To The Bay Weekend", and it was nothing short of spectacular. 3 gigs in 4 days during Memorial Day weekend, PLEASE believe son got it IN!!! First up was the famous PST party with the homie Sake One (a most gracious host. That air mattress was the BIDNESS homie, word up....give thanks!!!) at Eve Lounge (big up to Carolyn "C-YOW" Yao for picking me up from the airport and taking me to that DOPE ASS Indian restaurant). Also on the decks was my mans Ge-Ology (I still need that "Doin It To Death" edit man...lol). I met a lotta cool people that night (what up Zsa Zsa, Jasmyne, Ohmega Watts, Fran Boogie, Amy Serrata, Kendra, and Shani from The A), and shut the party down with Prince's "I Hate U" (slow jams in the club FTW!!!). The next day I spent exploring the city's historic Mission District and enjoying some AMAZING vegan food during my excursion. I caught up with Sake a little later and we went into Oakland, where he linked me with some club owners and fellow DJs from the area (big up my man Tap One and also Josie Stingray). I was pleasantly surprised by running into an old friend who volunteered to show me more of the sights of "the town". Bobbito was playing at this spot called Levende later that night, so I told Sake and the fellas I'd catch up with them there. Next morning, I had a really nice organic breakfast at this spot across from Amoeba Records (yup, you ALREADY know..lol), so after we ate, I did some diggin and went to this really dope outdoor flea market and kinda walked around and got into the rhythm of the area. I took the BART back into the city, where Carnaval was in full swing. I met up with Walasia Shabazz (powerful sista, straight BAWSE), and we ate at this DOPE vegan Mexican spot called Gracias Madre, where she introduced me to what is now our favorite drink, horchata (or horcheezy, horchizzle, or horchiggidale as the case may be...lol). The food was INCREDIBLE and she was a most gracious tour guide and hostess for the day. For as much fun as I was having, I hadda hurry and get back to prepare for my gig later that nite. Thanks to the homie Oak B-Girl who came thru and scooped me and brought me back into the town to rock with my mans Abel Dee and Chief Boima at this REALLY nice spot called Era. My peoples Beni B and the big homie Carlos Mena came thru and kicked it with me as well (much appreciated, my dudes). Sunday, I'm back in The City, and me and the crew headed down to Carnaval to hang out before the big Godfather party that night at Mighty. Ran into Bobbito and rapped with him for a few (respect, Kool Bob Love). I bought a couple Lucha Libre masks that I had my eye on from the day before and on the spot created the alias of Shecky Libre (it all makes sense if you were at Mighty later...lol). I went back to Sake's crib where he had a little get together, complete with mojitos, some real heavy convo with Baba Petey about Yoruba culture, the drum, Latin music, and the subsequent connection of EVERYTHING to Africa. I played him some House records that had some Yoruba chanting in it and he helped to bring some perspective to the songs by explaining the meaning of the words (much appreciated). A lotta cool people came thru there that day and I wish I could remember everybody, but word, it was a good time. Then it was off to Mighty for the inaugural SF edition of the Godfather party, where Daz-I-Kue already had the people warmed up nicely (it should be noted here that the system in there is INCREDIBLE. We later found out that a good portion of their PA came from the legendary Paradise Garage in NYC). Up next was Sake One who took the people to school with the "which Hip-Hop song sampled JB" set (nicely done, potna!). I came on in middle relief and ran thru summa my favorites and some rare JB cover tunes, ending my set with an EXCLUSIVE JB/Al Sharpton edit of "Bodyheat". Batting clean-up was the Funky President himself, J. Rocc, who, as usual, SHUT SHYT DOWN!! It was especially an honor to be able to rock with him again, since we kinda helped make history with the very first Godfather party in Miami in 07 (looking forward to many more too). A SUPER SPECIAL thanks to Carolyn Yao and the LotusSF crew for helping us finally bring Godfather to the West Coast. Can't wait to do it again next year. I was hoping to catch up to Fran, House Shoes and Wajeed, since they were playing at a club not too far from where we were, but it didn't happen (see ya'll for Godfather L.A. in the near future). Then it was off to the airport where I caught up with the homie Aeimee Diaz in PHX for lunch during my layover on my way back to ATL (I'll be back in AZ soon to rock at the Honey party wit my mans Steve from MGA).

June:

For all the fun I had in Cali, I was ESPECIALLY geeked to get home. Why, you ask? Well, I'll tell you why? I was gonna be rocking with my musical idol, Pete Rock that Friday at 595 North as part of the Stone Soul Picnic weekend. It was the unofficial "after party" of the Eric Roberson concert that went on earlier that nite (big up to Jerrell Allen, Gina Thompson, and Erro for stopping thru as well). Me and Kemit rocked on FOUR turntables to open up the night, playing nothing but CLASSIC Hip-Hop as the crowd trickled in from the show. Once things got up to a nice frenzy, we brought on the Chocolate Boy Wonder himself, and he ran thru some original samples, some old school R&B, and of course some Pete Rock classic productions. The homie Diamond D came thru and kicked it as well. It was a lotta fun, but it didn't stop there. The next day was the actual Stone Soul Picnic out at Perkerson Park. The weather was great, the sistas were looking good and the vibe was lovely. My mans DJ Teknology (push the button...lol) started things off with a NICE set. I went next and started building the vibe up more with some rare Funk, Classics, some Afro-Latin house, etc. My man Dave Soul was on FIYAH and had that pavilion ROCKIN!!! Next, Pete came thru and shut it down with a old school set, with my man Kemit closing it out with some niceness as well. A really nice weekend indeed. Also, that month, I had the privilege of being HAND-PICKED to DJ for Kerisha Roi's bornday party at The Sound Table. There was an AMAZING plethora of talented vocalists, musicians, and DJs in attendance, and i was honored to be numbered among them. She wanted me to play some MJ-esque stuff, so I obliged, spinning some classic MJ, some album cuts, and some exclusives that really seemed to make her evening, and I was glad to do it.

July:

From what I can remember, it was pretty uneventful gig wise (I gotta really work on that), but I was (and still am) hard at work on the upcoming "Extraordinary Nobodies" EP with the wonderfully talented Carlitta Durand, coming up with ideas and concepts and tracks that fit where she wants to go musically to set things up for her upcoming solo LP. I also started recording some more tunes for my "Playing Favorites" project as well. I'm extremely excited with the direction it is taking, as I've been able to add people like Carmen Rodgers, Geno Young, Ramona Dunlap, and Bilal Salaam to an already talented lineup.

Which brings us to August, and my NEW monthly event, "Stuff Like That" which will be held at the newest ATL hot spot, The Sound Table, starting August 26th. It starts earlier than usual (7pm-midnite) so that people can enjoy the happy hour atmosphere, enjoy great food and drinks, as well as get a quick boogie on before having to go to work the next day. The selections will definitely be catered to the more evolved musical palette, so for all the "music heads", this is your night to hear all the stuff we listen to at home and WISH we could hear out in a club, from Free Jazz to obscure Library records.

And there you have it, you're all caught up. See ya'll on the flip side. 1L

Shecky's Mood X: Words Of Widsom from the homie Ramel

2010-04-07T08:31:00.000-07:00

This was some cool shyt I peeped on my man Ramel's timeline on Twitter, and I thought I'd share it witch'all. Enjoy...

Life's Lesson

A little bird was flying south for the winter when it suddenly became so cold the bird froze up and fell to the ground in a large field. While it was lying there, a cow came by and dropped a huge pile of shit on it. As it lay there in the pile of cow shit, the bird began to realize how warm it was. The shit was actually thawing

him out. He lay there warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy. A passing cat heard the little bird singing, and came to investigate, Discovering that it was a bird under a pile of cow shit, he promptly dug him out and ate him.

From this story we can see:

1. Not everyone who shits on you is your enemy.

2. Not everyone who gets you out of shit is your friend.

3. When you're in deep shit, keep your mouth shut.

Salute, big homie...SALUTE!!!

Doug & Patty: Season Two (in Sheckyvision)

2010-02-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

About a month or so ago, producer Vaughn Garcia, and the incredibly talented vocalist Carlitta

Durand (Little Brother, Foreign Exchange) got together to do an EP loosely based on the

characters of the "Doug" cartoon. It was released on the blogosphere to very good reviews. She

started to float the acappellas around for people to remix, and being a fan of hers, I jumped at

the chance. Here's my take on the "Doug & Patty EP" for your listening pleasure. Enjoy...

Tracklisting:

Shecky's Prequel

Ode 2 Patty Mayonnaise skit

Ode 2 Patty Mayonnaise(Shecky's Blue Plate Remix)

Official (Applejac's Meccafficial remix)

Doug's Funny Love (Dark Thoughts remix)

Mustard and Mayonnaise skit

Super Nova (Shecky's Amicable Parting Of The Ways remix)

Lost Love (Shecky's Bittersweet Bossa Nova remix)

Alright (Applejac's Finding Closure remix)

Always (Patty's Grimy Butta Knife remix)

http://www.sendspace.com/file/qa22sk

Tighten Up: Clash Of The Titans (A Tribute To Pete Rock & DJ Premier)

2010-02-16T10:18:00.000-08:00

February 2nd, 2010: A night that for me will live forever. It is the night where me and the homie DJ Jaycee premiered the first of what we hope will be many tribute parties to come for our all-time favorite producers, Pete Rock (me) and DJ Premier (him). To give a little background on why this party means so much to us, me and Jaycee have gone back and forth with this friendly debate since we became friends in '92. We've been die hard fans of both from the very beginning, both of us admiring the other's work, but riding with our faves to the death (lol). We had actually come up with the idea to do a Pete Rock vs. DJ Premier double mixtape that was also gonna be called "Clash Of The Titans" back in 2007, but due to scheduling conflicts (as Jaycee travels often as Ludacris's tour DJ), we wound up releasing them separately ("For Pete's Sake, pt.1" and the CLASSIC "Pizza At Primo's, vol. 1"), both to very good reviews. Since that time, the CLASSIC "Pete Rock vs. DJ Premier" party at Crash Mansion, and 9th Wonder's Pete Rock vs. Premier tribute in NC have taken place, both showcasing the guests of honor, but a party with two OTHER DJs paying tribute to them had never happened before (I'm still surprised we were the first...lol). Enter Fadia Kader...

I was approached by Fadia from Come Up Kids to help her with some ideas for a theme party, and I figured this would be as good a time as any to make me and Jaycee's dream come to life. I pitched her the Pete/Preem idea and she loved it. The show was finally on the road!!! I called Jaycee while he was on the road to give him the good news and he was HYPED. Once he got home, the fun REALLY began. We met up the weekend before the show to just LISTEN to all the joints we had, from album cuts, remixes, original samples, etc (we were playing REAL VINYLS TOO!!! lol) and start figuring out how we wanted to format the night. We wound up just deciding to let the music speak for itself and go with the vibe. It was a historic night indeed and we (me and Jaycee) would like to thank: Fadia and Come Up Kids, Adidas (ChicagoRILLA, Wale [good lookin out, B]), the staff at Highland Ballroom, and EVERYONE who came out to make the night so very incredible for both of us. Lastly, to Peter Phillips and Christopher Martin...the Hip-Hop world owes you an incredible debt for the MANY classics you've shared with us, of which Jaycee and I are more than happy to make payments. 1L

*For those who missed it, here's a taste of what went down...

pt. 1: http://www.mediafire.com/?ztnm3y4ymmg

pt. 2: http://www.mediafire.com/?k22nzmyjgjw

Shecky's Mood IX: CLOSURE HURTS

2010-02-01T09:36:00.000-08:00

Maybe the lateness of the hour
Makes me seem bluer than I am
But in my heart there is a shower,
I hope she'll be happier with him.

Maybe the darkness of the hour
Makes me seem lonelier than I am,
But over the darkness I have no power,
Hope she'll be happier with him.

I can't believe that she don't want to see me,
We lived and loved with each other so long.
I never thought that she really would leave me,
But she's gone.

Maybe the lateness of the hour
Makes me seem bluer than I am,
But in my heart there is a shower,
Hope she'll be happier with him.

-Bill Withers

Slot Machine 3: Playin' The Rush

2009-11-17T15:33:00.000-08:00

Aight ya'll...this tape was SUPPOSED to be released earlier this summer, but, due to circumstances beyond my control, I hadda push the date back...A COUPLE OF TIMES (lol)!!! So, since ya'll ain't into excuses, here it is...ENJOY!!!!

http://www.sendspace.com/file/ehsttp

Oh yeah...Ya'll know I dont normally do this, but here's the playlist:

*Intro
Lalah Hathaway- U.D.O
Xantone Blacq- I Feel For You
Mahya- Cosmic Boy (feat. Raythought)
Territory Bad feat. Randolph- Ruff & Tuff
Illa J- Illasoul
Diamond District- First Time
Madlib feat. Firenza- Yo Yo Affair
Raheem Devaughn feat. Young Chris- I Wanna Love You
Foreign Exchange feat. Yahzarah- If She Breaks Your Heart
Iman Williams- Down & Out
Olu- Sista Why (Roots remix feat. Dice Raw)
Mica Paris- Breathe Life Into Me
Sade- Maureen
Tamara Wellons- Time's Ticking
*Sheckylude/Shouts
Rasiyah- Untitled (My Love)
Mabanua- Trap
Sa Ra Creative Partners- Can I Get U Hi
Reggie B- Reclaim UR Mind
The Trammps- Rubberband
J Dilla- Dilla Says Go
Floyd The Locsmif feat. 4ize & Yirayah Garcia- Don't Nobody Care
Ramsey Lewis- Kufanya Mapenzi (Making Love)
George Benson- So This Is Love?
Womack & Womack- Baby I'm Scared Of You
Gunnar Graps- Uskusin, Et Päevad

p.s. there is no artwork for this mix, so any contributions are welcomed!!!

My Take On Red Bull's Big Tune Beat Battle 2009 aka "So You Think You Can Dance?" aka "The Jeezy Wayne Gucci Auditions"

2009-11-04T07:17:00.000-08:00

First off, I would like to commend the 16 finalists in this year's Big Tune beat battle. I'm sure you all have sacrificed a great deal in your quest for this title, and your dedication to your craft did not go unnoticed. However (you had to see THIS coming...lol), I PERSONALLY was disappointed in the lack of diversity and originality in many of the tracks I heard. There was CLEARLY an attempt to appease the Atlanta "market" with their brand of "Durty South" beats. As a native, I felt a little bit patronized (but maybe that was just me). Couple that with the energetic, yet VERY UNNECESSARY convulsions certain producers felt the need to display on stage as their beats were playing (I'm not suggesting in any way that they lose their fire, just let the music speak for itself). The crowd was obviously swayed by these shenanigans, and I think it was particularly unfair to a couple of contestants who I PERSONALLY felt should have advanced, but didn't because maybe they were too "laid back", though in terms of QUALITY, they were just as good, if not better. Now, on to Mr. DeUno...

Mr. DeUno: For you to wear a shirt that says "Dilla Is The Reason I Do This" to a beat battle you're competing in, is almost begging for trouble. James Yancey's musical legacy is one that will be difficult at the very least to equal (even by the industry's best), so you put a lot of pressure on yourself because people were/would be expecting a certain level of quality to your work. Futhermore, to then play beats that are lackluster with NO SIGNS WHATSOEVER of his influence was disappointing to a great many of us who are fans of Dilla's work. This critique is in no way questioning Dilla's significance in your aspirations, it just would have been nice to have heard some of it in your work.

Now, for the GOOD news...

Aside from the customary confusion at the door (par for the course here in Atlanta, lol), the Red Bull staff (Janet, Kecia, Ryan, etc.), the Opera staff, and the people at BET, did an EXCELLENT job in making the event a HUGE success. Listening to Denaun Porter, Tha Biznezz, The Alchemist, and Just Blaze showcase some of their many hits was DEFINITELY the high point of the evening for me. Seeing a lot of my peoples in the game (Diamond D, Supa Dav West, Shred The Verbal Tongue, Gee Supreme, Illastrate, Rozzi Daime, Senor Kaos, StaHHr, Boog Brown, DJ Toomp [thanks for the crate props, mayne], Denny Lavish [so proud of the way you've come up as an engineer and producer. I'll be stopping by the spot REAL soon!], Jake One, Vitamin D [thank ya'll for the jawns, I'll get those parts to you soon too], Choklate, Saul Williams, Tchaka Diallo, Chris X [from St. Marks...lol], DJ Heed, Floyd Da Locsmif, and DJ X-Zact) was refreshing as well. I'd also like to take a moment to acknowledge the producers I DID enjoy listening to: Apollo Brown (Detroit), Boondoc (Denver), and G-MO (Minneapolis). I'm looking forward to hearing more of their work in the future.

*on a more somber note, today marks the 1 yr. anniversary of Christopher "Jax" Thurston's transition. I would like to extend my most heart felt condolences and prayers to his wife, Ms. Lisa Watts-Thurston during this time. He was a wonderful spirit and a DOPE MC. He will be missed...

The 3rd Annual Battle of The 45 Kings (10.4.09)

2009-10-10T11:28:00.001-07:00

I know it's been a minute since I've kicked it witcha'll, but I felt like this was one you guys would enjoy. Last weekend, I was once again invited to be a part of an annual event given by the good people at Sunday Dinner (one love to Emmerald and Just-One) that showcases DJs playing strictly 45s. It's called "The Battle Of The 45 Kings", and it's their 3rd year doing it. I've had the pleasure in those 3 years to play with the likes of DJ Kemit, Daz-I-Kue, Karl Injex, Mike Music. This year, they added DJ Boogie Nite from Chicago to the roster. Make no mistake, this year's was the best one yet. Don't believe me, see for yourself...

SHECKY'S FIRST FEATURE!!!!!

2009-09-03T08:06:00.000-07:00

Recently, I was featured on SWAGGR.com's blog as the first in their "Leaders Of The Old School" interview series. It was an honor to be selected, and I'm very appreciative that my efforts (at least to SOME extent) have not gone unnoticed. Here's the interview portion of the article for your reading pleasure. Enjoy!!!!

1) Name: Applejac
2) Nickname/alias: Shecky Apple, Sheckniculous, Uncle Shecky, Sheck Boogie (among others...lol)
3) Nationality: African-American
4) Location: Decatur, GA
5) Work/trade/aspiration: DJ/Producer
6) Current assignment/focus project: Several
7) Status: In a relationship
8) Type of style you are mostly known for (dress code): my colorful crocheted crowns
9) Age: mid-30s
10) Ethnicity: Black
11) Height /measurement: 6'3" 190 lbs
12) How old were you when you decide to embark in this profession ? 10 yrs old
13) Who inspired you? Jam Master Jay (R.I.P)
14) Who are your current mentors or idols? DJ Spinna, Pete Rock, Kerri Chandler
15) How was your first gig? Were you nervous? It was pretty good from what I remember (it was in 1992...lol). Actually, I'm ALWAYS nervous before I spin, but once I get in my zone, it's cool after that.
16) What are your ultimate goals? To travel the world DJing and working with really good artists and making timeless music with them.
17) What projects are you currently working on? At the present, I'm working on remixes for Russell Taylor, Alison Carney, Vick Lavender, Green Tea and Ananda Project. On the mixtape side, I have the "Slot Machine 3: Playin The Rush", "Let The Rhythm Prevail", "Let The Rhythm Prevail...again", and the "Do It With Passion" mixtapes on the way. I'm also working on a side project entitled "Variations", where I'm doing covers of a wide range of tunes. So far, I've confirmed Iman Williams, Gabbie McGee, C-Sharp Gomez, and Liv Warfield for the project.
18) How long have you been doing this? Professionally, since 1992
19) How long do you plan on doing this? It's my life's blood, I couldn't imagine NOT doing it
20) Is your career hard on your personal life? Not right now because I'm not traveling as much, but it can be hectic at times. Fortunately for me, I have a wonderful Queen who helps me keep things in order.
21) If you have to thank someone (outside family member), who would that be? It's hard for me to narrow it down to just ONE person because so many have been helpful in my career.
22) If you have to give someone, credit whom would that person be? I'd hafta give props to my man Jaycee (Tour DJ for Ludacris). We came up in the game together in '92, and he's really been able to work hard and get at least SOME of what he deserves. I'm very proud of him as my friend and also as a contemporary in this business.
23) Name 5 clothing element every person should own? A nice shirt and tie combo, at least one pair of dress shoes, some slacks, a stylish coat or jacket, and some cufflinks (never know when you might need em...lol)
24) The must have of this fall will be? I don't follow trends so much, so I can't say what the "IN" thing will be, but you can never go wrong with a nice leather jacket
25) Favorite watch? Right now, I'm REALLY into Paul Frank
26) Favorite car? Any one that can get you where you need to go efficiently...lol
27) Best place to live? I've only lived in Decatur, so...DECATUR!!!
28) Best place to retire? St. Lucia, Ethiopia
29) You love your city because? It's given me my roots and my foundation
30)f you could add anything to your city, what would it be? More of an identity. I think it has sort of taken on this image of what Atlanta is "supposed" to be, rather than what it "is"; Some parts for the better, others, not so much.
31) What gets you going? A really good song
32) Coffee or tea? Sweet tea mixed with lemonade
33) Day life or nightlife? I'm a DJ, so it's definitely nightlife
34) Favorite music genre: There's only TWO types of music...Good and Bad. I tend to like GOOD MUSIC!! LOL
35) Ten albums everybody should own: Live (Donny Hathaway), Songs In The Key Of Life (Stevie Wonder), Enter The 36 Chambers (Wu-Tang Clan), Here, My Dear (Marvin Gaye), Band Of Gypsys (Jimi Hendrix), Paul's Boutique (Beastie Boys), Mecca & The Soul Brother (Pete Rock & CL Smooth), Chicago Transit Authority (Chicago), I Am (EWF), Live At The Apollo, vol. 2 (James Brown)
36) Five books everybody should own: The autobiography of Malcolm X, Asaata, Divided Soul, The Invisible Man, The Great Gatsby
37) Greatest icon of all time (music, movies, sport, else): Though everyone will say Michael Jackson (R.I.P), I'm gonna go with Muhammad Ali
38) Your favorite season is? Because? I like Spring, just because of it's "newness"
39) Top five place in the city for food, live music, dancing, late night outing, meeting the opposite sex, drinks: As a vegan, I'd hafta say I like Chinese Buddah, Marco's Pita, Olive Bistro, Soul Vegetarian and California Mart for food. There aren't as many places to hear live music anymore, but I like Variety Playhouse or Center Stage, depending on the act (Sugarhill was the joint too!!!!). I can't dance (lol), I have a girlfriend, and I don't drink, so I can't really answer the other questions...lol
40) Give me your life in one word or sentence or one line from a song or a movie: "I'm just a soul who's intentions were good. Oh Lord, please don't let me be misunderstood" -Nina Simone

To read more of the article, go to http://swaggr.blogspot.com/2009/08/music-leaders-of-old-school.html and check it out. Many thanks to Tim Membo and the staff of SWAGGR for conducting a very professional interview and making me feel comfortable...

Sneak Peek XII: Adidas Originals 2009 Fall/Winter James Bond for David Beckham

2009-08-10T22:48:00.000-07:00

Here’s a first look into the upcoming adidas Originals by Originals capsule for 2009-2010 fall/winter as it features James Bond of UNDFTD designing a collection for international footballing superstar, David Beckham. Two styles of a fan-favorite ZX 8000 are seen alongsie an un-identified white pair. UNDFTD’s penchant for solid tonal uppers continues as we saw bits of it with their adidas aZX release awhile back.

Here’s a look at the Marathon TR Mid from adidas Originals by Originals’ James Bond for David Beckham Collection. This mid-cut version of the classic adidas Originals Marathon Trainer features waterproof a GORE-TEX membrane, reflective 3-Stripe tapes, and a hidden zip pocket on the tongue, finished off with a DB signature sock liner. Whatever the weather and regardless of terrain, this is the ultimate mix of retro and rugged styling in a classic adidas colorway. Available in stores starting October.

P.S. I saw the accompanying apparel that goes with this line as well, and there are a couple of pieces worth copping, namely the James Bond leather coat (Fiyah!!!!! very Run-DMC-ish)

*big up hypebeast.com for the visuals and the verbals...

The Re-Up...

2009-08-10T16:22:00.000-07:00

In the past couple of weeks, there have been many of the new "Shecky-ites" that have begun to follow the blog that have been asking me to re-up summa the older mixes that they missed out on, so, being the kindhearted person that I am, I decided to do so. It is my only request that if you cop a mix, that you recruit 5 more Shecky-ites to the page. Deal?? Solid!!!

What Is Soul?: http://www.sendspace.com/file/zbby7l

Stuck In The Golden Era: http://www.sendspace.com/file/t3ovny

WEBR Afternoon Groove (mixed by Applejac): http://www.sendspace.com/file/xx5rz4

Obscurely Familiar: http://www.sendspace.com/file/q2lww9

Scroll thru the previous entries for a description of the mixes if needed. Enjoy!!!

*photo by Carlos Bell

Applejac Presents: The Secret Life Of Mr. Tudball (1999 beat tape)

2009-07-26T16:55:00.000-07:00

I've been in a real "vintage" mood lately, so I thought I'd share some old beats witcha'll (lol). I did my best to trim the fat (as this was a 90 min cassette these beats were taken from) and be as concise as I could since most of the beats were recorded in typical song length (3 verses and hooks). I also decided to (again) add some post-production funnies to keep it light and interesting at the same time. If anyone wants to buy any of these trax, feel free to hit me up. SERIOUS INQUIRIES ONLY!!!! Enjoy

*All tracks produced by Applejac for Sounds Of Mecca Entertainment. All rights reserved

http://www.zshare.net/audio/63204975c52bcc58/

Vintage Shecky: Memory Lane pt. 1, (Spring 1995)

2009-07-25T15:36:00.000-07:00

This tape was supposed to be released during Freaknik of 1995, but through some strange twist of fate (probably due to WAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYY too much drinking, lol), I had misplaced the master tape. The master tape managed to resurface a few months ago while I was (of all things) looking for a picture in my old nightstand (imagine that!!! LOL). For those of you who weren't in ATL during the early to mid 90s, this is a taste of how I used to put it down at The Warehouse on any given Friday nite (big up Jaycee, Li'l Jon, DJ Searcy, Kenny Burns, 2620, etc). I was gettin my Shecky Capri on too, giving shout outs ALL OVER THE PLACE (lol)!!! Just so you know, this is a 14 yr old CASSETTE TAPE that I made the mp3 from, so enjoy all the "air" and "hiss" that is a 90's mixtape (who remembers goin down to Tape Masters at the Flea Market over by Underground??? LOL). This is livicated to all the pull-out car stereos around the world!!!!

side 1: http://www.sendspace.com/file/a3el9x

side 2: http://www.sendspace.com/file/jhez8e

From The Vault: Spring Cleaning 2004

2009-07-25T15:21:00.000-07:00

I was cleaning up today, and just happened across a few old mixtapes I had made over the years. Strangely enough, THIS tape was made while I was cleaning the house in 2004 and I was running thru some cool tunes while I was straightening up the Meccalab. It's kinda all over the place (read: VERY random...lol), with some tunes that were new at the time and some other treats outta the crates. I added a few post-production funnies for your listening pleasure as well...Enjoy!!!

http://www.sendspace.com/file/bwbztv

Sneak Peek XI: Adidas Originals Kazuki 7-Hole Boot

2009-07-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

Frank Liew pulls the covers off an unforeseen footwear offering as part of adidas Originals by Originals’ 2009 fall/winter capsule with Japanese designer Kazuki Kuraishi. Incorporating a hybrid-like approach, the model features a 7-hole boot-like upper with a sneaker outsole. Two colors look to be in the works including brown/yellow and black/blue. No word yet on a release date.

Big up my peoples at Hypebeast for the visuals. Can't wait to cop these for the fall...

Shecky's Mood VIII: How much is "too much"???

2009-07-04T00:04:00.000-07:00

I'm just getting home from playing an abbreviated (to put it LIGHTLY) set at one of the Michael Jackson tributes, and I'm bewildered to say the least. It was a nite dedicated to the music of Michael Jackson/J5, yet at any given moment throughout the party, I heard everything from Biz Markie to Robin S. I don't know why I continue to give this Atlanta crowd the benefit of the doubt, when it was PAINFULLY obvious that all they wanted to hear were HITS, it didn't really matter WHO the artist was. As long as they could sing along to "I Want You Back", "ABC", "Rock With You", and get their "mama say mama sah" on to "Wanna Be Starting Somethin", it prolly didn't matter what else the DJs played (in my opinion). It does bother me, however, to think that somehow being advised to "not go too deep, just give 'em hits" is acceptable, EVEN AMONG SO-CALLED "LOVERS OF MUSIC". Furthermore, to play an UNRELEASED tune from the "Off The Wall" album to a LUKEWARM response was really disheartening as well (to say NOTHING of the album cuts from THRILLER ya'll shoulda known. Ya'll should really be ashamed of yourselves). To somehow be made to feel that "this isn't the place for THAT kinda MJ shyt", was a huge disappointment. IF A MICHAEL JACKSON TRIBUTE ISN'T THE PROPER PLATFORM TO PULL OUT SOME ILL SHYT, THEN WHERE THE FUCK ELSE WOULD YOU PLAY IT??? SO WHAT IF YOU NEVER HEARD IT BEFORE...IF YOU LIKE IT, DANCE TO IT, SHUT THE FUCK UP AND LEARN SOMETHING FOR A DAMMIT CHANGE!!!! Which begs the question: How much is too much??? Is there such a thing???? Are most "tributes" only theoretical??? Or is it just the grim realization that even the most "die-hard fans" can only listen to but so much of their "favorite artist(s)"??? Or...here's a thought: If you're gonna only take A PORTION of the night to pay homage to a particular artist, THEN SAY THAT!!! Don't have me sitting around for HOURS, waiting to hear the first tune from the artist you're playing tribute to, NO MATTER WHO IT IS!!!! I, as a TRUE FAN (not just a DJ), would have been EXTREMELY offended by what took place. And while I HUMBLY give thanks for the opportunity to be a part of such a lovely SOCIAL EVENT, and applaud your community minded agenda, I PERSONALLY would have enjoyed it if there was more emphasis on the entire catalog IN ADDITION TO all his many, many hit records (that most people hear every weekend in the club anyway). But hey, I'm sure 90% of the people there had a blast, so what the hell do I know, right?? Well, the Godfather party is coming up soon here in ATL, so I guess we'll see how THAT turns out...

*Big Up: DJ Spinna & Bobbito (Wonder-Full, Soul Slam), Rich Medina (Jump'n Funk), Daz-I-Kue, Karl Injex & J. Rocc (Godfather), J. Carter (Sol-Fusion), DJ Kemit & Aishah (Spread Love), Randi & Just One (Sunday Dinner), FCC (Heaven), and anyone else who TRULY loves the music and does it from the heart. MJ, R.I.P

Sneak Peek X: It's Been A Long Time...

2009-04-27T10:05:00.001-07:00

Sup peoples..I know it's been a good minute since we've convened over the campfire, but I PROMISE it'll be worth the wait. In most places throughout the U.S, Spring has FINALLY sprung, so you KNOW what THAT means. Guys and girls are feverishly scouring the malls and boutiques for that UNCUT fiyah to put on their feet for the warm weather. So, with the help of my good friends from Adifans.net, here's some joints to whet the appetite. Enjoy...

Shecky's Mood VII: Maybe Steve had a point...

2009-02-12T20:31:00.000-08:00

By and by, all my dreams will soon disappear

I know not when, I know not why

I guess I'll never learn, no, never never learn

I can't begin to know, how lucky I was

All alone, wondering if I dare to survive

I count the stars, I cannot cry

I guess I'll never learn, no, never never learn

I can't begin to know, the meaning of love

Today was clear, now night is here

The magic of the sun playing with the moon

The joy in my heart, I can't believe it's gone

I guess I'll never learn, no, never never learn

I can't begin to know, the meaning of love...

-Steve Kuhn, 1971

Sneak Peak IX: The Adidas EQT series

2009-02-10T12:24:00.000-08:00

Yeah...I know it's been a minute since I was able to post some joints, but a bruvva back on track now. These aren't necessarily that NEW NEW, but I really like the colorways on these. Perfect to rock during the late winter and a nice segue into spring before you bust out the real heatrocks you been sittin on for "just the right moment". So without further ado, here ya'll go. Enjoy...

Ahem...Mr. Shin (lol)

*big shout to kixandthecity.com for the flix!!!

Shecky's Mood VI: Broken

2009-01-28T17:58:00.000-08:00

In the world of strangers

I breather alone

Whisper to my heart

Gaze at my own shadow

Silence...

In the world of strangers

I feel deep pain that I can't share

No one can see my tears

Can't feel I'm still alive

In the world of strangers

I am left alone

Unacquainted to everyone

I am a stranger to myself

I am Fragile

Feel like screaming so loud

Till I'm breathless

Till I hold no burden

How awful I feel...

-Nooria Rahmanzai

Stuck In The Golden Era mixtape

2009-01-15T13:10:00.000-08:00

For all the people who love CLASSIC HIP-HOP, this one's for you. And yes, that really IS my hair from 1991 (lol). For those that remember these joints, have fun reminiscing. For those that don't, "...sit back and learn, listen close...this is for your OWN concern!" 1L

http://www.zshare.net/audio/5419024485b50bc8/

Shecky's Mood V: Soul Searching

2009-01-07T10:24:00.001-08:00

CHOICES

If i can't do what i want to do then my job is to not do what i don't want to do
It's not the same thing but it's the best i can do
If i can't have what i want . . . then my job is to want what i've got and be satisfied that at least there is something more to want
Since i can't go where i need to go . . . then i must . . . go where the signs point through always understanding parallel movement isn't lateral
When i can't express what i really feel i practice feeling what i can express and none of it is equal
I know but that's why mankind alone among the animals learns to cry
- Nikki Giovanni

Slot Machine 2: Summer Soulstice

2009-01-01T20:22:00.000-08:00

Aight ya'll...let's start the New Year off right with the 2nd of my "Slot Machine" series. This mix features neo-soul bangaz from Erik Rico, Tiffany Paige, and Reggie B (remixed by yours truly), along with classic cuts from Kool & The Gang, Prince, Roy Ayers, Earth, Wind & Fire, and more. Enjoy...

http://www.zshare.net/audio/5358011140dffa12/

*"Slot Machine 3: Eclectic Relaxation" coming soon...*

Sneak Peek VIII: Conductor Oddity & Y-3 Honja Hi/Ikuno

2008-12-26T06:31:00.000-08:00

Aight ya'll I thought this would be a nice, colorful way to end off 08. For all my Adidas heads, you know the Oddity line is always full of color and can definitely get the people on your tip if you freak 'em with the right ensemble (VERY important information right there, but ya'll already know that, too! lol). Definitely something to rock for next spring. So now, as an extra bonus...

Here's a little somethin from the Y-3 collection that I MUST have for the winter. The hi-tops are BANANAS. So, as always, I'll be in contact with my mans MJS to see if I can cop these. See ya'll in 09 with more Sneak Peeks...1L

Shecky's Mood IV: Ode to the Bedroom DJ...

2008-12-22T10:09:00.000-08:00

(repost from My Space 11.5.07)

Let me preface this blog by stating that this is in no way an attack on any one person in particular, cuz every DJ many of us love and admire (including myself) was once a "bedroom DJ". It is simply an observation of summa things that have been happening lately. Peep...

In bedrooms all over the world, there are thousands of aspiring DJs going to record stores, shopping on iTunes, buying Seratos, Torqs, Traktors, etc. They invite their friends over, perhaps smoking a blunt or two (or their vice of choice), and maybe having a sip of the latest energy drink, while they showcase their latest blend they've been workin on for the last 3 weeks. Their friends are amazed at the DJ's progress from the last time they had this session and urge him to keep going. Eventually he gets up the nerve to do a whole mixtape and play it for his closest friends and co-workers, many of which have been tracking his progress from the time he bought his turntables/CD-Js/DJ software 6 months ago. "Not bad for someone who's just starting", they say. Very encouraging words indeed. He just happens to have a friend who's opening up a really chic coffee shop/lounge in a cool part of town where his clientele are all rockin the latest custom kicks, and the chics are always on point. He convinces said coffee shop owner to let him rock on the weekends "to get more practice". His selection is solid, as he's been able to go online and grab up a lotta songs he's read about on the various "crate diggin" websites. The blends/transitions are a bit choppy at times but no one appears to notice, because after all, "they're just there to have coffee and chill". And besides, he's playin a lotta choice cuts/rare grooves, so he DOES have a grasp on what sounds good...doesn't he?

He gets the occasional compliment on his selection (primarily from the BANGIN honey that frequents the joint pretty regularly) so now he KNOWS he's on his way. He starts looking for other gigs to hit up, from boutiques to sneaker spots, to other coffee shops/restaurants/lounges. He's now a year in, and he's making a bit of noise on "the scene" for his exquisite selection and now he feels like he's ready to play with the big boys. He gets a slot at the local club for one of their bigger nights, his first REAL gig, definitely the biggest thing he's ever done. He walks in, laptop in tow, outifit crispy, ready to tear shit up. Thru the luck of the draw he's actually just before the headliner so he'll have the biggest crowd he's ever played in front of. Nerves begin to set in. He's invited all his "fans" to come listen to him. He can't let them down...

His turn comes up. Every DJs wet dream...A PACKED DANCE FLOOR. The cats who played before him couldn't have set him up any better. He sets up his computer and begins to do his usual routine. His blends are choppier than usual, but his "fans" chalk it up to nerves (I mean, after all, it's the biggest thing he's ever done"). His selection, though perfect for a coffee shop, doesn't seem to be moving this crowd at all. "What's going on????" he thinks to himself. "I was KILLIN em in the coffee shop! All my peoples was lovin my mixtape! Why ain't THESE people movin????". The other DJs congregate on the side (one shaking his head in utter disgust) and slowly, but surely, the crowd leaves the floor. He finishes his set and powers down his laptop. The headliner, visibly perturbed at the task of building the vibe up from scratch gives him a halfhearted dap and commences to get the crowd jumpin within 15 minutes. Mr. Bedroom DJ goes to the back of the club and sits dejectedly in the corner. The bangin chic from the coffee shop, sensing his extreme disappointment, sits next to him and whispers, "It's okay...just use this as a learning experience. You'll get em next time, don't worry".

The moral of the story is: JUST BECAUSE SOME DJS MAKE IT LOOK EASY, AND YOU HAVE THE SAME EQUIPMENT THEY HAVE, IT DOES NOT MEAN YOU ARE A FUCKING DJ!!!! A LOTTA MEN/WOMEN HAVE PUT IN YEARS AND YEARS OF HARD FUCKIN WORK TO BUILD THEIR SKILL SET TO A CERTAIN LEVEL AND 6 MONTHS OF DJING WILL NEVER EQUAL THAT!!!! SO TO YOU, MR/MS BEDROOM DJ, BEFORE YOU DECIDE TO LET YOUR PEOPLES/CO-WORKERS/GIRLFRIENDS GAS YOU THE FUCK UP TO DO THIS SHIT, YOU BETTA DO THE FUCKIN KNOWLEDGE...OR THE NEXT BLOG I WRITE MIGHT BE ABOUT YOU!!!! 1L

***Happy Bornday to my cousin Whitney***
***R.I.P. to my aunt Rosa Lee Johnson, the Durden fam will miss you!!!!***

Shecky's Mood III: Who's In Your 5???

2008-12-18T20:27:00.000-08:00

I know this is gonna be a tuff one, and most will have a "damn i forgot to put..." moment, so I have allowed for your 5 faves and one honorable mention. Hopefully, there will be a wide range of selections that will remind us of what we loved about this music/culture. Here's my list (in no particular order):

Pete Rock & C.L Smooth- Mecca & The Soul Brother

Slum Village- Fantastic, vol 2

Diamond & The Psychotic Neurotics- Stunts, Blunts & Hip-Hop

Beastie Boys- Paul's Boutique

Ultramagnetic MCs- Critical Beatdown

*Nas- Illmatic

who's in YOUR 5???? have fun!!!

Shecky's Mood II: A Beautiful Surprise

2008-12-17T21:40:00.001-08:00

Today I was doing my internet show, as I always do on Wednesdays from 3-5 PM on www.handzonradio.fm (how's THAT for a shameless plug? lol), when i get a private message in the chat room. "She" goes on to tell me that she really enjoys my sets and that she likes my productions as well, which would indicate that she is really paying attention to what I'm playing, and has been tuning in fairly frequently. We continue our conversation after the show and during said convo, we found that we knew a few of the same people (among some other things....lol). All that to say that even when you think nobody's listening, you may be gaining or losing a fan. So DJs, always give 100%, cuz your rep is ALWAYS on the line!!!!! 1L

*big shout to "V" in AZ

Sneak Peek VII: UNDRCRWN x Adidas Team Signature Command + Create '08-'09

2008-12-15T09:51:00.000-08:00

Ya'll think I'm playin bout these TS joints huh??? HUH???? More SICKNESS from Adidas and their TS series. Normally I wouldn't post SPs this close together, but I'm sure ya'll understand after lookin at these jawns (HAD to do it). Here's what the peeps at Hypebeast had to say...

"Adidas REMIX and UNDRCRWN have aligned themselves in a three-pack of some of the best of what Adidas’ Performance basketball line has to offer. The long-winded collection name, the Adidas Team Signature Command + Create x UNDRCRWN: The Brand for Champions Series features a mixture of UNDRCRWN’s sport roots with that of the Adidas PERFORMANCE collection. The concept revolves around Adidas’ own “Command + Create” campaign for 2008/2009 as they create shoes designed for various styles of play from the “Command” power players who make things happen in the paint and crash the boards like Kevin Garnett, Dwight Howard and Tim Duncan to the “Creators” who make things happen with their creativity and finesse such as Tracy McGrady, Chauncey Billups and Gilbert Arenas. The three models include the NBA Championship Ring inspired TS Creator, the respect the past/invent the future themed TS Creator Low and finally the high-end luxury stylings of the TS Commander. The whole pack releases today, on Monday, December 15th at select Adidas REMIX accounts and online at UNDRCRWN.com with a suggested retail price of $125 USD."

Come on MJS...don't front on the kid, GOTSTA have these!!! LOL

*shout to hypebeast.com for the info and visuals

Sneak Peek VI: Adidas Grun Fall/Winter '08 edition

2008-12-12T21:58:00.000-08:00

Word up..I'm on some chilly chill shiznit wit these joints. Perfect for one of them days when you just hangin out like Large Pro and Joe Burgos "watchin ol' Black Caesar flicks for kicks...", or if you out wit a bird (young lady, queen, empress, etc...) just doin it real lo-fi. But enuff about how I feel about em, here's what my peeps at Adifans had to say...

"Originally debuting earlier this year, Adidas Originals presented Adidas Grun as a collection of products which exemplified a new way of product design and production. The focus on the Grun collection was to produce footwear and apparel which embodied an emerging sense of environmental friendliness and the included use of sustainable and natural materials. Using three guiding principles, Grun prides itself on “Made From”, “Recycled” and “Reground” to execute their collection seen here. Although the collection possess’ a certain aesthetic which really associates with the whole “green” concept, we look forward to adidas applying the Grun concept in a more mainstream initiative that doesn’t necessarily fall into a pre-conceived design scheme."

Calling Mr Shin...Come in Mr Shin...lol

*one love to adifans.net as always

Shecky's Mood: Where Are YOU In The Equation???

2008-12-08T07:24:00.000-08:00

In my seemingly never ending quest to find my "queen to be", I've found myself trying to figure out how to "create" this person, if she actually exists. I've written down all these qualities that I felt like I was looking for (African woman from any part of the diaspora, natural hair, vegetarian/vegan, wants children, educated, peaceful, likes music, sports, etc), since I was told that you hafta be specific when you ask JAH for stuff. Yet, for all my theorems and equations, cipherin' and buildin', I'm now realizing that I had neglected to ask myself one very important question: What am I doing to prepare MYSELF for when she crosses my path??? The answer was an honest, but SCARY, "nothing". I haven't really done much with my house since I bought it in the way of getting furniture (hardly welcoming to any sista who may come to visit), but I have bought TONS more records and sneakers (ahhhhhh....a bachelor's life! lol). So for all my affirmations and such, I was asking JAH to send me a queen that I wasn't even ready for!!!

I think as people, we tend to make these demands on GOD (the homie Tules calls it "givin GOD a laundry list" lol), while conveniently waiving responsibility for our part in the process. Almost as if to say "GOD, I know I ain't perfect, but here's my list of qualities for an ideal mate that I think I could be happy with. So, if you could just overlook MY flaws and send me someone WITHOUT THEM, I think that would work out just great, Amen (Ashe, Selah, etc.)". So GOD, being the comedian He is, sends her/him to us, KNOWING we wouldn't recognize them if they were standing right in front of us. Yet we're sitting there trying to figure out if THEY'RE too early or too late, when it's US who are most likely the guilty party

So ladies/fellas, when you're making that list of all the things you want in a boyfriend/girlfriend, husband/wife, king/queen, just take a second to ask yourself...Where are YOU in the equation??? 1L

Sneak Peek V: TS stands for "TOO SICK" OMG!!!

2008-12-05T19:18:00.000-08:00

Yo...I'm REALLY feeling Adidas's TS Commander line right now. I got the TS Lightspeed Art Of War's on my wishlist already (as seen in SP4), but now...

NEED I SAY MORE????

*making a call to MJS FIRST THING Monday morning (lol)....
** One Love to adifans.net on the visuals as always!!!

Applejac on "Afternoon Groove" 12.03.08

2008-12-03T21:59:00.000-08:00

For those who missed my Independent Soul/Rare Groove set on WEBR today w/my man Vinny V on his "Afternoon Groove" show, here it is. You can check out the show each and every Wednesday from 3 PM to 5 PM EST at www.afternoongrooveradio.com or www.fcac.org/webr. The set will also be heard on broadcast radio in Rennes, France on Radio Laser 95.9 FM Sunday from 20:00-21:00 BST & online at www.radiolaser.org. Big shout to my man DJ Soulgiver for the hook up. I'll be doing more sets in the coming months, so stay tuned. As always, NO PLAYLIST...KEEP DIGGIN!!!! Enjoy...

http://www.zshare.net/audio/522304470f694f81/

EXCLUSIVE!!! Foreign Exchange promo mix (mixed and hosted by Applejac)

2008-12-02T00:44:00.001-08:00

For those of you who won't be in the A for the show, here's a li'l sneak peak at what you'll be missing....

*intro by Small Eyez

http://www.zshare.net/audio/521416981b0a77a0/

Sneak Peek IV: Adidas TS Lightspeed (The Art Of War)

2008-11-28T14:18:00.000-08:00

These right here are most DEF on my holiday want list (hint hint @MJS...lol). Here's what our good friends at Adifans.net had to say about em...

"Adidas TS LightSpeed "Art of War" is inspired from two of the elements of the Chinese military treatise, "Wind, Forest, Fire and Mountain". Words under the tongue are "Fire" and "Mountain" which are the inspiration of the set. It will come with special shoe box. There are also tees of this "Art of War" package available."

The Slot Machine Mixtape

2008-11-19T14:17:00.001-08:00

For those of you who have been asking me about my "Slot Machine" mixtape series, Here's the 1st installment that was released about a year or so ago. A lotta people have asked, "Why you call it that?" Well, I'll tell you. When I set out to make this series, I knew I wanted to make a mixtape that was versatile and soulful, but not necessarily predictable, sorta like pulling the handle on a slot machine ("you never know what you're gonna get, but there's always a payoff lurking around the corner"), hence the title. Featured on this mix are tracks ranging from Peter Hadar and Miles Bonny to Mandrill and Roy Ayers. Also featured are EXCLUSIVE Applejac remixes for Darien Brockington, Robin Thicke, and Frank McComb. Enjoy...

*Couldn't find the jpeg of the artwork for this one either (lol)

http://www.zshare.net/audio/51565013befd1a7d/

Sneak Peek III: Y3 Hayworth Mid II

2008-11-09T12:04:00.000-08:00

Combining adidas classic sport with a designer fashion element, Yohji Yamamoto’s Y-3 has set the bar high in 2008. With the sole of an athletic sneaker, this Hayworth II Mid features luxurious leather combined with fine detailing. The black and brown color scheme is yet another versatile palette for the Fall.

*shout to adifans.net for the visuals and the verbals...

Why I Love Being A DJ...

2008-11-07T05:48:00.001-08:00

You know, sometimes I wonder why I still do this shit. I mean, the years and years of hard work, carrying crates, practicing, dealing with dumb-ass promoters, you know, the usual (lol). Then, there are times when you play a practically flawless set, or people come up to you at the end of the night and tell you that you gave them their moneysworth, when everything is PERFECT. Watching these cats' routines gave me that feeling. Hopefully it will do the same for you. For those who aren't familiar, I present to you, C2C...

Shecky Asks The Eternal Question...

2008-10-28T15:19:00.000-07:00

What Is Soul???? I don't know...but listen to this mix. 1L

http://www.zshare.net/audio/505923367fdbeccb/

Another 20 East Sure Shot...

2008-10-18T12:45:00.000-07:00

I guess this actually shoulda been my first post, but here it is anyway (lol). For those of you outside of the Atlanta area, you probably don't really know much about what I've done over the years. In addition to playing various clubs here in ATL since 1992, and being the DJ/producer for my own group, Showtime (see previous post), I've done exclusive remixes for a show I was a part of for many years (Rhythm & Vibes, WRAS 88.5 FM) from the mid to late 90s. Most of the material has gone mostly unreleasesd until now. This particular batch spans the years of 2000-2006 (as most of the older material is missing and/or poor quality due to excess cassette usage...lol), and features tracks/remixes I've done for artists ranging from Eric Roberson and Jill Scott to independent/local artists that I've had the pleasure of working with. It even features me on the mic as Shecky Apple (lol). I'll be posting some of my other "previously unreleased" works in the future as well, but for now...dig on this!!!! 1L

http://www.zshare.net/download/50021369b20a8503

Sneak Peek II: Adidas Originals 2008 Fall/Winter Collection

2008-10-15T15:08:00.000-07:00

Adidas Originals releases a new series of Oddity-esque footwear with interesting color patterns. The re-emerging Metro Attitude Hi utilizes the same yellow and blue seen on the Superstar (not shown) with the inclusion of additional greens and yellows. Available soon...

SICK RIGHT???? STAY TUNED FOR THE APPLEJAC "EARN YA STRIPES" MIXTAPE IN THE EARLY PRODUCTION STAGES AS WE SPEAK...

*Big shout to Adifans.net for the pic

Featured Presentation: 10 Years Later

2008-10-07T17:18:00.000-07:00

Dateline: December, 1998. I remember it like it was yesterday. I remember holding my copy of my group, Showtime's CD, "Featured Presentation" in my hands for the first time. I have probably never felt so proud in all my life. Remembering the times going to work on the bus after being in the studio most of the day, after having worked 3rd shift the night before!!! Recording in my man Tense's BEDROOM hoping nobody with a loud ass car drove by and fucked up the vocal take (lol). It all seemed worth it at that moment. 15 carefully selected beats crafted over about a year and a half that I had SLAVED over in my house until it was "just so" (at least for that time). Me and my cousin, Big Dippa (who some have said was one of the best MCs to EVER represent our city), had planned to REVOLUTIONIZE the way people viewed Hip-Hop from the South, primarily Decatur. I had MAD LOVE at WRAS FM 88.5 as a member of The Weekend Wrecking Crew, so naturally we got some spins there, as well as wonderful response from the listeners. We didn't really get as much love as we SHOULDA gotten on (community radio station) WRFG, as we were told we were "too country" for their "uber gully" audience (I contend that there were other factors involved, but that's another issue). And when we tried to get some spins on (what was then) Hot 97.5, on their "Future Flava-esque" show, they told us we were "too Hip-Hop" for their demographic (remember this is 1998, and "crunk" was just starting to peek it's head above water here in ATL). It was in this climate that we made this magnum opus of some country azz underground Hip-Hop. We were the South's answer to Pete Rock & CL Smooth (Pete was, and still is my biggest influence and you can hear it on this album...lol). Featured on track 9 is my man Tense aka Maccstyles who was a sick MC in his own right, and a group called Second Kings, which featured two MCs who were unknown at the time, Charles IV (who later became Jawz Of Life), and BW3 (later to be known as Granola Green..you'll get to know him later in future blogs). These 3 individuals along with my group Showtime would form Eastern Bloc (again...something you'll see in upcoming blogs). My cousin called it quits 3 years later due to obligations to his family (he had gotten married and had a daughter in the interim and we wasn't really makin no "rap money". Pretty easy math if you ask me..lol), but not before we recorded a two song collabo with Lone Catalysts (Rush Hour b/w Gotta Listen), another Showtime single (Extrication b/w Diamond Lady), both on Rent Money Recordings (BIG UP TO CHRISCO AND AUSTIN FOR ALWAYS BELIEVING IN US!!!!), and also 5 tunes for what would have been the Showtime follow-up album, "Eastbound...And Down!!" It was one of the best times in my life, and I wish things could have turned out better sales wise, but some view "Featured Presentation" as an ATL underground classic, and to me that (again) makes it all worthwhile. Funny thing, though. I wish I had known THEN , about these 3 guys in Detroit that were recording some really interesting music around that same time. Maybe I woulda tried a little harder...

* if anyone has a jpeg of the OG artwork for this album, please feel free to hit me up!!! 1L

http://www.zshare.net/download/20170869d17a6ed1/

Hot Wheels: A Journey Into The World Of Roller Boogie

2008-10-03T17:09:00.000-07:00

For all of you who like to gitcha "Bounce, Rock, Skate, Roll" on, this one's for you. Enjoy!!!!

http://www.zshare.net/audio/199062677f32b8a7/

Clark Kent: All Things Fresh...

2008-10-01T10:57:00.000-07:00

Yo...duke got the SICKEST AF1 collection, he drops science about how he helped Jay-Z get started, and for the kiddies, PLEASE pay special atention to this video from the 11:50 mark to the end...you just may learn somethin.

NHTVSN Episode 2 Part 2.1 from NHTVSN on Vimeo.

Sneak Peek

2008-09-25T17:09:00.000-07:00

This is a new segment that I'll be featuring periodically called "Sneak Peek". For those of you who know me, they know I rocks NOTHING but "them 3 Stripes". I figure since AF1s and Js get so much luv, I'd show luv to Adidas (since no one else seems to..lol). I'll be attempting to showcase some of my favorite designs and colorways from various sources and also some from my own collection. So, without any further ado, here's my first entry...

While Europe's fixation seems, quite understandably, to veer towards the runners, for some CT office dwellers the Forum Mid is a pinnacle of Adidas design, so the idea that its 25th anniversary would see some interesting makeovers was welcome. Until we discovered the celebrations would be predominantly held Stateside and were less than happy.

Designed by team Harput's themselves, and easily the best of a store pack of variable quality, while some lose hair, sleep and man hours in the quest to make something unique, this makeup inspired by the mighty Americana, from that killer colour combo to the mesh and suede toe set on that groundbreaking silhouette, encompasses both Adidas's key court achievements perfectly.

*BIG UP TO adifansnet.blogspot.com FOR THE VISUALS!!!

The Joy Of Diggin'

2008-09-20T17:06:00.000-07:00

I was cleaning (one of) my record room(s) one day and I decided just to start recording whatever I pulled out from the crates, be it 45s, album cuts, whatever (mostly 45s, I think). The result became what I present to you as "The Joy Of Diggin'". A pretty eclectic selection of music if I do say so myself (lol). It's unmixed so you can enjoy each song in it's entirety. Hope ya'll like it...

http://www.zshare.net/audio/1912763853b117b3/

Studda Steppin' With Applejac

2008-09-20T16:42:00.000-07:00

This is a tape I made a couple years back as one of my initial excursions into Broken Beat. I had gone to NY to kick it and had taken a trip into Dance Tracks to cop some "different shit" while I was there. I came home and made a mixtape of my finds (which I'm prone to do). So here it is...

http://www.zshare.net/audio/1912539569c6217c

*special shout to my peoples Bugz In The Attic (Daz, I.G. Culture, Afronaught...wha gwizzle???) Mark de Clive-Lowe, and Barry King for really schooling me on "bruk" since this tape was made in 2005

Obscurely Familiar

2008-09-05T14:01:00.000-07:00

Obscurely Familiar...It's that thing that's right on the tip of your tongue, but you just can't put your finger on it. It's an artist who's voice you've know like the back of your hand, but you've never heard them sing "that song". It's that tune you've heard a million times, but "who's THIS cat that's doin it???". Maybe it's been sampled for one of your favorite rap songs. Or, quite simply, you might just think it's a dope ass mixtape with some really cool music on it. At the end of the day...ISN'T THAT THE POINT??? Enjoy

http://www.zshare.net/audio/182564785a03b425/

Kissin In the Crates: The Untold Story

2008-09-04T11:44:00.000-07:00

At the urging of the homie Jaycee, I have decided to unearth some ish from the archives. In the year 2000, I released a VERY limited pressing of a compilation entitled, "Kissin In The Crates" at Earwax Records here in ATL. It was to be the first of a four part series, but since the first one sold so slowly, I just sat on the other three. And once ?uestlove did "Babies Makin Babies" a couple years later (and a really good comp too, may I add), I chose not to release them at all.

To give some background on KITC, the CDs were actually taken from the original 90 minute cassettes (that's right, CASSETTES!! LOL), which were recorded somewhere between 1999-2001 from ALL ORIGINAL VINYL (very important to mention here, because there were no CDs or vinyl reissues of a great many of these songs at the time. Some still haven't been reissued).

So, here they are ladies and gentlemen, ALL FOUR VOLUMES of "Kissin In The Crates", and also the "Director's Cut", which is a compilation of all the songs that didn't make the original 4, plus a few extras. Keep in mind, that these are all taken from vinyl, so there's some fish grease poppin on a few of em (lol). Enjoy these on a lazy afternoon, or with that special someone. 1L

VOL. 1 http://www.zshare.net/download/16790325f02e0f83

VOL. 2 http://www.zshare.net/download/167914996ea1f67d

VOL. 3 http://www.zshare.net/download/1678630284f4e2d9

VOL. 4 http://www.zshare.net/download/16786376d427a334

Director's Cut http://www.zshare.net/download/167926974e361765