Crime Mob – Hated on Mostly
While most students were preparing for, enjoying, or finishing up spring break, a few of the students at Crime Mob University were steadily grinding.
While the members of Crime Mob (Cyco Black, Diamond, Lil J and Princess) gathered around a speakerphone to get started with their interview, a very excited Cyco Black kept repeating, “We’re ready, we’re ready man.” He’s talking about the group’s second album, released March 20, Hated On Mostly. Now, while people still can’t get their first club anthem, “Knuck if you Buck,” out of thier heads, Crime Mob hit the radios and televisions running with their lastest number one hit “Rock Her Hips.” In the video, the group mimicked the scene that is usually seen at a HBCU but with a “crunk” twist, hence the name Crime Mob University. Even though the members aren’t in college at this time, Cyco Black said, “It’s time to grind now. With this success, we have to keep our hustle up.”
With production by Lil J on most of their album, the beats show some range but keep its heavy pulse like in the song “All Madden.” Diamond’s “32 flavas” are spread across the board in her lyrics as always. “Circles” reveals a different perspective from each member about drama in relationships.
When asked about how they deal with being young stars (the group’s ages range from 19 to 21), Diamond says, “You just gotta keep grinding. You can’t get caught up in the hype; you have a goal so go for it.”
For these young celebrities who have been performing together for a number of years, this is only the start. From a skating rink chat to number one on the charts, it’s easy to see why this group is “hated on mostly.”Musiq Soulchild – Luvanmusiq:
Now even though relationships are always difficult to start and keep up, Musiq Soulchild reminds us what the good ‘ole days are like. His chart topping single “B.U.D.D.Y.” is sweeping across the nation faster than any love sickness.
Luvanmusiq is definitely more profound than any ‘itus’ and more relative than any roommate’s sniffling and sneezing. Even the way his single starts off, its infectious vibe blends the live instruments and smooth vocals. In the song he tries to get the lady to know him just a little better and “Ms. Philadelphia” is his second stab at the opportunity. With an even smoother vibe and approach he gets deeper to the point with his charming love ballad.
Musiq’s songwriting has improved since Juslisen, and any Musiq fan would definitely be pleased with the charming tracks he provides. “Makeyouhappy” and “Takeyouthere” are two smooth tunes that would set up any date night on the town.
Suitable for old fans and even new ones, Luvanmusiq is the perfect and impressive vibe everyone should be looking for this spring.
Lloyd – Street Love
He’s back, and without the aid of cute face (Ashanti) for a duet. Lloyd returns with some New Orleans flavor and since both he and Lil’ Wayne are from the recovering jewel, it wasn’t hard to tell that his first single on Street Love would be number one.
“You” is such a hit, that it might take the place of the two most played R&B songs ever, “You Should Let Me Love You” by Mario and “Yeah” by Usher. Speaking of Usher, while he has been taking a nap on the game, his little brother J-Lack produced Lloyd’s second single “Get It Shawty.” This stimulating track has a beat made for the dance floor. Complete with more “grown up” lyrics than those featured on his first album Southside, this 21-year-old is telling the world that he’s not a teen anymore.
Lloyd even went an extra step further with the headliners featured on the album. The song “You” alone features three of the best in the business. Lil’ Wayne provides the jabs, and Andre 3000 and Nas are featured on the remix to provide the knockout that this album delivers.