PROTOMAN

Swarm 7 'Spring Break Forever'

2012-03-02T16:27:00.001-05:00

Protoman - 8 Steps To Perfection

2012-02-26T14:27:00.000-05:00

The original song is 'Company Flow - 8 Steps To Perfection'. I use to listen to the original song in the late 90's as a teenager, doing drugs, and learning how to rap. Anytime I hear this beat I get a instant sense of nostalgia, so I put some rhymes on it. They are a little reflective, some are future projections, most are a regression of an older style/flow/wordplay I use to run with. It's vintage, yet full circle, and trill as fuck.

Alligator City x M1

2012-02-16T22:22:00.001-05:00

Player Hater's Ball

2012-02-13T23:28:00.001-05:00

Valentines Day.

Protoman - My World Freestyle

2012-01-25T05:28:00.003-05:00

Broward County. My World. Iggy Azalea. Download here -- CLICK

My Grind Time battle (that ended in a fight).

2012-01-12T19:24:00.000-05:00

Here it is... the rap battle to end all rap battles! Father Guido Sarducci Vs. Bo Dirty!!!! Live at Swarm 666

8 Years. Ghettoblaster.

2012-01-08T21:49:00.001-05:00

I put out my first record "Ghettoblaster", 8 years ago, this month. Time fuckin' fly's.

I won't put up the whole ''Ghettoblaster'' album because hearing my voice on that is like hearing needles scraping a chalk board! But, I'll post a song or two from the album that I still like to this day. Happy Anniversary to me!! and to YOU if you've been there since the beginning!

http://soundcloud.com/protoman/protoman-blank-wallets

Thurs/Dec29/Club Eve

2011-12-26T12:24:00.002-05:00

This Thursday night, catch me live in Miami at Club Eve. Lot's of talent of the bill. See you there.

Merry X-mas!!

2011-12-21T18:26:00.001-05:00

It's finally here. Twelve brand new songs. This is my favorite record to date and I hope it becomes a favorite of yours too.

The LP is called 'Beat a Dead Horse 'Till She Resurrects'. All the tracks have additional post-production/cuts/scratches from DJ Rob Riggs to give it that glue. There will also be a 'Deluxe' edition available for purchase down the road. The 'Deluxe' edition will have additional instrumental tracks from 'The Astrea Corp' and extended versions of the current tracks here on the regular version. Real Good stuff.

I made this album after going through some withdrawals of how music was, and is, being released currently. Hip Hop is the culprit for the fast turn around of 'forgetfulness' I feel. How disposable have things become with leaks and downloads? I'm guilty of this as well. Leak free releases, we call promotion, to get us booked for shows. There is no substance I felt anymore; no wonder people don't support and/or buy records. They just aren't worth what they use to be.

I made this album pretending in was pre-internet and pre-cd. I pretended it was during a time where you put on a record and listen to the whole damn thing, no skipping tracks, no fast forwards. You put that record on in your room and just listen. That you marked on your calendar when that release date came. It was probably on a Tuesday and you probably met some new friends that day at the music shop who were there to buy the new record as well.

This record of mine tells a story, a weird complex one of finding life and vitality in things that were forgotten, buried and dead. It's music culture, artistry, relationships, addictions, and paranoia. We beat these things in our life (good and bad) with a stick until it dies. Sometimes those things can come back to life. Sometimes they come back to haunt or help you.

I don't want to dissect this album too much. I don't want to give you all the answers. I'm going back to a time where I valued music tremendously because I could play a record a 100x and could always find something new within it. A revelation, a connection. Like a good movie you just have to see twice. I attempted to make this. I want the listener to work for it, to understand, to comprehend, and to notice the detail and subtle aesthetics.

I'm on the verge of myself making disposable pop songs to pay them bills in this odd future, for now, this is my attempt to balance things out..

Beat A Dead Horse 'Til She Resurrects by Protoman

2011-12-20T11:49:00.001-05:00

'tis the season.

2011-12-19T16:45:00.000-05:00

Alligator City - Straight Wilin' (Video)

2011-12-08T17:47:00.000-05:00

Protoman Album Release-"Beat A Dead Horse 'Till She Resurrects"

2011-12-06T14:12:00.001-05:00

Really dope recap video from the night of my release party.

Live: Protoman CD-Release Party, Green Room, November 19

2011-11-21T13:16:00.002-05:00

Awesome review of my release show this past weekend, also a slideshow of pictures to boot!! Check it out here.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE

Roc Raida Miami Tribute hosted by Champion Sound @ Electric Pickle 9.30.09

2011-11-17T15:24:00.000-05:00

Roc Raida Miami Tribute hosted by Champion Sound @ Electric Pickle 9.30.09 from Scott Wellington on Vimeo.

Bleubird & Protoman Take Over Laser Wolf w/ A Little Help Form The BLS Family

2011-11-17T15:19:00.000-05:00

Protoman to Release "Beat a Dead Horse 'Til She Resurrects" Record at Green Room

2011-11-16T13:18:00.001-05:00

Much love to The New Times for the monster article. Read this while you poop or wait in line to buy something you don't really need.

http://www.browardpalmbeach.com/2011-11-17/music/protoman-to-release-beat-a-dead-horse-til-she-resurrects-record-at-green-room/

PROTOMAN "Beat A Dead Horse Till She Resurrects" Release Party Saturday November 19th @ Green Room

2011-11-13T22:59:00.002-05:00

Update on BADHTSR

2011-11-03T01:34:00.000-04:00

Good news everyone! My new album 'Beat A Dead Horse Till She Resurrects' will be available for FREE D/L in a few weeks. We will also be offering a 'Deluxe' version of the album down the line with additional instrumentation and extended versions of some songs that will be for sale. Having two different versions lets everyone hear it, yet support. God bless America.

Perfect way to close out October

2011-11-01T22:56:00.001-04:00

Protoman - Locust Bite by M.C.T Productions

Produced and mixed by Domingo.
Taken from the forthcoming album 'The Alliance'

Protoman appears courtesy of Footwork4self Records.
Domingo appears courtesy of Deranged Music Inc.
2011 M.C.T Productions

Broward County Shit.

2011-10-24T14:29:00.001-04:00

#OccupyMiami with Alligator City & Light Works Films

2011-10-17T19:39:00.000-04:00

'BADHTSR' Release Show/Party!!

2011-10-12T23:05:00.001-04:00

Kavinsky - Nightcall (remix) feat. Dirty Dem & Protoman (Drive Soundtrack)

2011-10-04T23:00:00.000-04:00

Kavinsky - Nightcall (remix) feat. Dirty Dem & Protoman (Drive Soundtrack) from dirtydem on Vimeo.

SURPRISE -- 'UNSIGNABLE'

2011-09-28T11:34:00.003-04:00

Protoman & Bleubird 'UNSIGNABLE' MP3. Big thanks to New Times for the great write-up.

Check it out--

http://blogs.browardpalmbeach.com/countygrind/2011/09/protoman_bleubird_mp3_unsignable.php

Ghetto Metal Freestyle with Mayday, M1, Bazaar Royale, Alligator City, KGB, Nimrod and Scam

2011-09-14T18:11:00.001-04:00

Protoman - Roots (Produced by Budo)

2011-09-09T14:42:00.007-04:00

First leak off of BADHTSR!!

Protoman - Roots (Produced by Budo) by Protoman

BADHTSR ARTWORK x TRACK LISTING

2011-09-09T14:42:00.006-04:00

Protoman - Beat A Dead Horse 'Till Resurrects

Coming Soon.

Protoman Megamix 2 by DJ Rob Riggs

2011-08-25T16:35:00.000-04:00

In preparation for dropping a new LP titled 'Beat A Dead Horse 'Till She Resurrects' due out later this year, Protoman & DJ Rob Riggs are breaking the people off with a free 'cassette tape' inspired Megamix. This is the second collaborative installment between the two and is comprised of freestyles, album cuts, studio tracks, and b-sides over the span of Protoman's career. All mixing, scratching, and juggling was performed by DJ Rob Riggs.The effort is available for high quality download here.

Protoman Megamix 2 by DJ Rob Riggs by Protoman

Improv Proto, Astrea Corp. doing the Party

2011-08-16T22:10:00.000-04:00

Protoman, Jabrjaw, Orion Pax & Sandor(The Astrea Corporation) forming like Voltron. After Proto's rant Sandor on MPC & Pax on Gadgets

Improv Proto, Astrea Corp. doing the Party by Audio-Justice

Protoman - Gucci Gucci (HIPSTERS REMIX)

2011-08-04T06:57:00.000-04:00

A Tribute to Iconz: Get Tucked Up, by Protoman

2011-07-18T20:28:00.002-04:00

I've been inspired by classic Miami Hip-Hop and fatherhood lately. This is a mesh of both. Play it for your kids, really. This is the first leak of a new Children's album in the works.

A Tribute To Iconz - Get Tucked Up (Children's Song) by Protoman

The Party Monsters - Born To Roll

2011-07-12T13:50:00.000-04:00

Born To Roll by Protoman

Big Shrimpn'

2011-06-21T14:32:00.000-04:00

2011-05-31T18:54:00.001-04:00

My homie just uploaded this. I can't even tell how young I am here. Best part is the awkward ending of me just walking out the room like I'm totally ashamed and embarrassed.

I can feel it coming in the air of the night

2011-05-31T02:53:00.001-04:00

2011-05-31T02:52:00.000-04:00

So I ordered a pizza online for delivery. And this came to my door. Who the hell works at Dominos who knows where I live?!

I have an unreleased song featured on this beat tape. Track 20. Go check it out.

2011-05-21T19:12:00.001-04:00

Bonus Beats Beat Tape by Bonus_Beats

2011-05-15T18:28:00.001-04:00

So as very little of you know, I have been recording and making plans along side Miami rapper Bizerk in a duo-group called Alligator City. We have a grip of material that's currently being shopped and we will be preforming for the first times(s) at the end of the month of May here.

First show is @ Club Revolution with Bone Thugs-n-Harmony (May 25)

Also, we'll be @ White Room with Big Sean and Nipsey Hussle (May 29)

Come watch s break the ice, and your face.

2011-05-08T21:07:00.001-04:00

PROTOMAN FREESTYLE

2011-03-31T21:46:00.000-04:00

2011-03-02T17:34:00.004-05:00

MP3 Download: Here

Attached is a track with artwork that was layed down at Miami Beatwave Studio a few weeks ago after a show in South Florida. The beat is backed by Apollo Brown Featuring Sab The Artist, Mr. Chief, Dynas, and Protoman. The name of the track is "Half Full". It was a blessing to have all these talented individuals together for a studio session to make some magic. You can find more info on the artists involved at:

Apollo Brown http://www.mellomusicgroup.com/ ("Clouds" Album Dropping March1st 2011)

Sab The Artist http://www.sabtheartist.com/ (Playing Paid Dues Festival April 2nd, Atmosphere Family Tour April 17th-May20th)
Mr. Chief http://www.mrchief.net via Footwork4self http://www.fw4s.com (Dropping "Assuming Power" Record March 8th 2011 for FREE DOWNLOAD at mrchief.net)
*MrChief.net will be officially Launching with leaked tracks, videos, etc on March 1st 2011.
Dynas Bad Gramma Records Inc/BBE Recording Artist http://www.twitter.com/dynas ( "The Planet" Record Coming Soon)

Protoman http://www.protomanmusic.com via Footwork4self http://www.fw4s.com (New album "Beat a Dead Horse Till She Resurrects" Coming Soon) Miami Beatwave http://www.miamibeatwave.com (Mixed and Mastered "Assuming Power" Mr. Chief Project set to Release March 8th)

The Emcee Freestyle Open - GrindTimeNow

2011-02-25T16:39:00.001-05:00

The Emcee Freestyle Open - GrindTimeNow from Nicole Gonzalez on Vimeo.

Wrecked at Whiskey's @ Whiskey Jacque's - Sun Valley, Idaho

2011-02-15T14:19:00.001-05:00

On women..

2011-02-07T19:08:00.001-05:00

There's nothing wrong with a test drive, doesn't mean I'm going to buy it, and I love my bike so much because of it's low maintenance. If I have to ride the bus sometimes that's cool, I don't mind sharing and dropping a few bucks.

2011-01-28T13:11:00.001-05:00

Protoman Hidden Camera Episode 1 (T-Mobile)

2011-01-07T19:13:00.001-05:00

Oozed -- Nice Little Interview I Did

2010-12-20T17:57:00.001-05:00

http://oozed.blogspot.com/2010/12/secrets-of-ooze-timothy-mcclure.html

Meet Timothy aka Protoman, I was introduced to Proto's music by my good friend Derek back in 2006 and have been a fan since. South Florida underground hip hop at it' finest. Check out Proto's music bio;

"Florida cut-throat rhyme slasher!! Label bouncer and impregnation poster child. Independent monster and Rawkus Records last ever effort. Noted for quick-witted lines of Hip Hop purist to dark drug educed tales of underground fame plus everything in between. Distorted electronics, funk samples, and 808's. A man who is not defined but defines what he touches.

After years of holding down street cyphers and corner battles, Protoman knew a transition into music wouldn't be a hard one. Growing up in sunny South Florida, Proto has been stirred in a melting pot of cultures and religions that shows the diversity ingested in his voice and words. After being kicked out of High School and plastered by dozens of different titles for income, Proto now knows what the one job he can be the best at and maybe even earn a little pocket money on the way.

With already an independent LP Analog released in 2006 that quickly became an underground classic and 2007's Grey Area that was brought out through the help of Rawkus Records, he's now determined to break into the majors. Slinging intensely articulate rhymes over jazzy, old-schoolish boom-bap and forward-leaning distorted electronics. While he's not as esoteric as most backpack-rocking MCs, he certainly isn't rapping about the manhole-cover-sized rims on his platinum-plated Hummer either. This lands the kid comfortably in an accessible middle ground that allows humor, talent, and integrity to coexist. His live show is nothing short of electrifying as well. Holding down the mic solely without skipping a word for a monster set has become something not seen by the crowd with other acts and is one key component that brings so many people out to see him in the flesh.

Now recently finished up project with legendary LA beat-smith Sebino, there seems to be a consistency as his sights and music are taking this culture to a new plateau."

Secrets of the Ooze:

My name is...
Timothy Neal McClure or as the less famed, Protoman.

I live in...
Fort Lauderdale, FL.

But I rather be in...
The desert living out of an RV.

You might know me from...
The internetz, or if you were really lucky, a rap show where I sweated.

If you don't know me you should check out my...
Website

Lately I've been working on...
A full-length solo LP plus a secret release with another rapper and major industry producers behind it. Yes, I'll be selling out soon. This economy sucks.

My biggest influences are...
80's music, 'lil rapping ghetto kids, tattoo'd white girls, my daughter, haters, Four Loko, and a whole bunch of other shit.

I'm thankful for...
Not being ugly. I hate to say it but, yeah. I'm not saying I'm handsome or hot, just not ugly. If I were ugly I wouldn't get half the opportunities I do. Fucked up world we live in, ain't it?

My most prized possessions are...
Really nothing. My house could burn down tonight and I really wouldn't care. I watch that show Hoarders and laugh, I point at the TV and laugh. We don't own anything, those things own us. Didn't you see fight club? I dunno, maybe my hard drive with all my pictures, songs and video's - stuff that proves I exist. That's my ego though, I hate that guy.

The most annoying thing in the world is...
Cocky people. Arrogant motherfuckers. I will shit on you, those are the kids I use to embarrass in front of girls and family members. In front of their mothers. Confidence and humbleness is attractive. Think your shit don't stink and you're the best? I will prove you wrong.

My favorite toy growing up was...
Ninja Turtles. My parents gave me the toy van they rode wrapped in news paper for my birthday. It was my prized possession, whoever said material items don't bring true happiness are idiots.

Some people...
Don't get my humor. It's hard sometimes to connect with people, it really is.

In high school I used to...
Do lot's of stupid shit. I was kicked out pretty much for smoking weed. High school was a joke. I got a full-time job instead and made money. School don't pay me nothing.

My most embarrassing moment was...
Having this girl say my dick was small to other girls. I was only like 14 though and just started puberty. I wanna Facebook that hoe, and say, "Hey girl, it's been 10 years. Come check it out now." She took my virginity as well, I also want to show her I don't suck at sex as much either.

When I grow up...
I want to get discounts on meals and movies. That is all.

If I'm really sweaty it's probably because...
I was rapping and still nobody cares I'm going to stink the rest of the night so you could be entertained.

The last thing that made me throw up was...
Drinking a Four Loko followed by a Bawls Energy drink. I'm a grown man, I don't know why I do this shit anymore.

Before I go to bed I...
Look on my phone at craigslist. Privately owned cars for $4,000 and under. I don't need a car. I just like looking at deals. This is the only statement I'm not lying about.

I'd like to give a shout out to...
The Oozed, FW4S, ATS, BLS, Alligator City, and my cat who's currently on his last leg with fluid seeping from his chest cavity into his stomach.

Keep It 100

2010-12-13T00:08:00.001-05:00

this is awesome

2010-12-06T18:47:00.001-05:00

Everybody is dropping videos. I figured I'd drop one too.

2010-12-06T18:43:00.000-05:00

Protoman Interview + Freestyle on Smoke Session Radio

2010-11-18T11:53:00.000-05:00

This could be my favorite picture in the whole wide world.

2010-11-17T18:25:00.002-05:00

Mimi Thee Dreamer Presents : Protoman "Grass Roots"

2010-10-21T15:29:00.001-04:00

Mimi Thee Dreamer Presents : Protoman "Grass Roots" from Mimi TheeDreamer on Vimeo.

Protoman Interview on 'Radio X' 88.5 with Nicko Rebel.

2010-10-05T03:26:00.000-04:00

PROTOMAN & GAPS BIRFDAY XPLOSION!!

2010-09-27T16:30:00.002-04:00

Swarm 3-D Tattoo

2010-09-21T00:04:00.001-04:00

You could be on "I'm Very Proud Of My Accomplishments: Part 2"!!

2010-09-16T17:45:00.001-04:00

After a long summer of traveling and recording, Protoman & DJ Rob Riggs have come together once again to release "I'm Very Proud Of My Accomplishments: Part 2". This newest installment will feature more rare demo's, b-sides, & freestyles, all mixed and cut up by DJ Rob Riggs (Scratch DJ Academy/MFA). The two are looking to feature phone drops from friends, fans, enemies, & crazy ex's to include on the mix, so call the following number for a chance to be heard on the mix.

(954) 918-0130 -- Your calls will be received anonymously & no numbers will be shared for any reason.

Footwork4Self Showcases Fresh Additions to Hip-Hop Roster at Propaganda

2010-09-14T17:51:00.001-04:00

http://www.browardpalmbeach.com/2010-09-16/music/footwork4self-showcases-fresh-additions-to-hip-hop-roster-at-propaganda/

"We are trying to show the rest of America that South Florida consists of more than Rick Ross, strip clubs, and cocaine," declares Tim McClure, a blue-collar Fort Lauderdale MC better-known as Protoman. Engulfed in wafting aerosol vapors at the South Florida Graffiti Expo held in late August at Kevro's Art Bar in Delray Beach, McClure is referring to Footwork4Self (FW4S), an upstart hip-hop record label based in Lake Worth.

In less than a year, FW4S has emerged as a South Florida locus for underground rappers, producers, and b-boys — not only putting out recordings but functioning as a promotion and management company to its artists. The 400 people who attended the graffiti event prove that these efforts are working locally, and a strategic alliance with artists on Rhymesayers Entertainment — a Minneapolis indie label that has released albums from MF Doom, Freeway, Brother Ali, and Atmosphere — has helped bring national talent like Toki Wright to Florida and land out-of-state bookings for its South Florida signees.

So who is behind this rapidly rising collective?

"He's the Nick Carter-looking dude over there," says Protoman, pointing New Times in the direction of FW4S CEO Ryan Kolquist. On the surface, the cocksure 29-year-old is an average Joe hip-hop fan: a fitted baseball cap tilted to the side and a T-shirt reimagining the AC/DC thunderbolt logo as "MC/DJ." But beneath Kolquist's affable persona is a razor-sharp business acumen. Since his 2003 move from Duluth, Minnesota, to Palm Beach County, this entrepreneur has built three companies from the ground up.

"I took an idea that started in a garage to a global business that has increased in sales by 20 to 30 percent each year," said the shrewd Kolquist about J-KO, a floor-mat-cleaning-device company owned by his father, Jon. The younger Kolquist honed his Billy Mays-style pitchman skills while accompanying his father to a Las Vegas trade show four years ago. He says they sold 50 machines ranging from $4,000 to $8,000 in one day. Before that, his father had averaged 50 per year.

Kolquist, who was a left wing for the University of Minnesota-Crookston hockey team, first thought to apply his sell-ice-to-an-Eskimo talent to the rap game after a chance run-in with an old pal from Duluth, Ryan "Jabrjaw" Britt, at South Beach's Purdy Lounge in 2004. Britt and his recording and performing partner, DJ Dee Dubbs, AKA Dan Wilkes, had come up with the concept of Footwork4Self at the time but did not have the expertise to push things forward. "When the time is right, let's make some moves," Britt told Kolquist at the time.

After assisting with some shows throughout the years, Kolquist decided ten months ago to go "all in," forming a solid infrastructure and lining up all the company's copyright and trademark matters. He's now a one-third owner of the label, and Jabrjaw and DJ Dee Dubbs make up the other two-thirds.

The first matter of business was building a roster. "This past year, I went to hundreds of shows in the Florida area and networked," Kolquist explains. "I feel that I've got the most talented people on my team that are willing to do whatever the fuck it takes to be successful. Nowadays, everybody expects success to fall out of the sky; it doesn't happen that way, especially in the music business."

Two recent additions are Detroit's Chief and Miami-based Serum. According to Kolquist, Chief's smooth flow has the most pop appeal and can easily draw up to 500 people in his hometown. Serum, a more experimental hip-hop act, already has a hit called "The Blade Rack" that reached number five on the Rap Attack college radio hip-hop charts.

Filling out the label is the aforementioned flagship FW4S act Jabrjaw & DJ Dee Dubbs, who do what Kolquist calls the "boom bap" style of rap. Joining them is fresh-faced Lox tha Rippa, who "freestyles better that most people can write music," and "just a fucking psychotic spitter" in Protoman.

Kolquist eagerly introduces the inked-up Chief, AKA Dave Reginek, who is already a ten-year veteran of the Motor City's underground rap scene. The two hooked up last year after Kolquist, already a fan, emailed Chief to set up a show with him in Detroit. As luck would have it, the rapper had just relocated to Delray Beach.

Reginek, who garnered the nickname "Chief" from drug dealers in Detroit's ghetto while on missions to score weed, says he's all "mash potatoes" when recalling the exact details of who initially emailed who. Having semiretired from the rap biz when he encountered Kolquist, Reginek didn't immediately take to his message. "I'd been so gassed up with everybody trying to fill my head with hopes and dreams that I wasn't trying to hear Ryan when he first stepped up to me." It took a solid recommendation months later from hometown friend and Kid Rock DJ Paradime to finally convince him to join forces with Kolquist.

As a former pill-popper from Detroit with what he calls his "woe is me" rap style, Eminem comparisons for Chief are easy. "I've heard it a million and one times," he says. "Besides the color of our skin and the fact we are both from Detroit, if you listen to our records, they don't sound anything alike."

Chief is ready to branch out from his struggling ways, though. "I'm almost 30 years old; being broke is not something that's cool anymore." As he said that, the personable artist is approached and congratulated for his raucous set — by a six-foot-five effeminate black man and an expectant mother. Chief leans over and says, "You see, pregnant ladies and gay black dudes dig me. I've got what they call mass appeal."

Chief's debut EP via FW4S is set for an early 2011 release. Joining him at Friday's "Stackin' tha Roster" event at Propaganda, as well as anticipating his own EP through the label next year, is Serum, a self-proclaimed "graffer" or graffiti artist, who is spray-painting a bulbous, alien-like caricature in jailhouse garbs on a large board at Kevro's.

The MC from Kendall in Miami-Dade doesn't seem to think his partnership with the FW4S dudes from Palm Beach County is so unusual. "In reality, it's not so far-fetched," says Serum, AKA Andre Brevil, in his deep baritone delivery. "The b-boys, graffiti artists, and DJs all know each other in South Florida; there is much more tricounty camaraderie than you would expect."

Serum, who also puts out records on his own label, Tyranno Serum Records, says he appreciates that FW4S is booking so many out-of-state shows because he is eager to show the rest of the country that South Florida has legitimate "tru-skoolers" in its midst.

"Rap these days has lost touch with its audience," interjects Kolquist, citing the Rhymesayers label as an exception. "Those guys started by jumping vans and rocking shows for 50 people at a time until it spread like wildfire."

After befriending Rhymesayers' Toki Wright by attending small shows in the Twin Cities eight years ago, Kolquist was able to arrange a few shows in Minneapolis for his crew, a dream come true. "When I got into this, I said to myself, 'I got to rock a show in uptown Minneapolis.' "

Kolquist is not modest about his ambitions and believes that if the label stays true to its vision and keeps "busting ass," it will soon take the public by storm. "They say it takes a small business five years to get up and running," he says. "We have been in business for ten months and are accomplishing more than bigger companies with hundreds of thousands of dollars backing them."

WBM Interview

2010-09-01T16:18:00.000-04:00

http://www.whybluematters.com/2010/09/wbm-features-protoman.html

Don't aim for success if you want it; just do what you love
and believe in, and it will come naturally.
-David Frost

Upon embarking on anything that's fit for accomplishment what would you say you need with you in order to make it a success?

Now the response may vary from person to person given what it is he or she wants to accomplish considering people may feel they need this or they need that or for that matter nothing at all to do what they have to do and get what they have to get. However, what seems to be consistent across the board, at least with all of WBM's features is above anything else what's brought along for the journey of life toward success is happiness.

Happiness it seems is the ration pack that provides that next bit of energy when we don't have enough, the confidence when there's any doubt, and the freedom to do any and everything. Take Protoman for example.

Happiest most when creating music that affects the lives of others, Protoman of Florida has this ability with words that demand attention, especially when placed over head nodding beats. You can hear it in each song all the way down to how he delivers each verse which by will get even better over time considering his greatest motivating factor is his daughter.

Take some time out to get to get up close and personal with not only one of Florida's great, but one of Hip Hop's and Rawkus50 as well.

[As Told To Why Blue Matters]

So tell the world a little bit about yourself:

Protoman: I record mostly hip hop and perform as much I can. I love Florida and Florida loves me back. I couldn't name you 5 hits on the radio as of today but could chronologically name every rap song that was released in 1984 and drop a little known studio fact of their recording sessions.

Who is Protoman?

Protoman is a character I try to detain - a sort of war machine. Misunderstood yet many people seem to relate. I try to keep Protoman separate from my personal life, but he creeps in unwillingly. If I were Protoman 100% of the time I would be in jail or dead.

How you come up with the stage name?

Protoman: I wanted a super villain yet a superhero in variation. Guess it depends who the listener is and where they come from. The name represents a prototype, human, but with flaws most "normal" people do not carry. It's also the name of my favorite video game character of all time.

Where are you from?

Protoman: I was born in Texas but moved to South Florida as a little kid. I think I'll end up in Florida forever. People think I'm crazy for that.

Interest(s)?

Protoman: I love mixing music - thats my secret interest (I don't tell my rapper friends because they'll want to render my services for free). I love playing basketball every week and pretending I'm Wade while chewing gum. Another interest is thrift shops. I love the way they smell and you meet some good folks there.

What does music mean to you?

Protoman: Music means expression and creativity mixed with emotion. It means doing whatever you feel is right and pushing the envelope no matter what people think. It means inspiration to others and being the voice for people who want to be heard.

How long have you been involved?

Protoman: I just got a decade under my belt. I should get a grant or something from the government like they do in Norway to make music.

When did you know that music was something that you wanted to pursue?

Protoman: Probably when I realized it made me the most happy. There is nothing better than working for days on a song and listening to it for the first time in it's completion. Then playing that song on stage and people seem to enjoy it. That's the cherry.

What inspires and motivates you?

Protoman: That feeling once again. Also coffee and occasional cigarettes. Honestly, it's fans. I remember when I realized the impact I had was when this girl wrote me and said, "I listen to your songs every morning while I drive to work and it makes me feel good while stuck in traffic" That's what keeps it going for me.

You have a very unique delivery, what goes into the creation of your songs?

Protoman: Lots and lots of things. But basically making something totally different from the last song but still keeping that signature sound. Sometimes you just mash ideas together in rhyme form and throw it at the wall and hope it sticks. Sometimes it's very premeditated and planned.

What lead to your being recognized by Rawkus?

Protoman: Personally it meant a lot because I idolized that label growing up when I was 15 or so. It's was a trip to be working with them 8 years later. Even though it was short lived and independent Hip Hop isn't what it use to be, I'm convinced that If I was this age now back in Rawkus' prime it would have been a wrap. I would have been getting an intro on Soundbombing II mixed by the Beat Junkies. I think being recognized proved to a lot of cats I'm here to stay. Even though it feels like the wrong era, I'm still here.

Biggest Accomplishment?

Protoman: Becoming a father and being content with this "grown up" thing. Being there for my daughter and they fulfillment that comes with it is the best reward. There is nothing better I can ever create or accomplish than her.

What type of impact would you like to make with your music?

Protoman: I want to be responsible for something important. Whether it's performing while two lost souls meet at my show and make a baby that will cure some serious disease or me showing my imperfections and mistakes to give people direction for their own lives -- it has to be big and meaningful in the big picture. I will not be content when I finally burn out or fade away and people can only say, ''yeah, Protoman was dope. The stuff he did with Sebino was fresh". That's not enough. I'm not trying to change the world but I want to make a dent in it.

Who have you worked with so far?

Protoman: I don't do as many collaborations as I should but some rappers/producers I have worked with are, Fusik, Bernbiz from Mayday!, DJ Slice, DJ Immortal, DJ Idee, Crazy Hood, DJ Final, Numonics, Bleubird and a lot of really great people I could type all day.

Any anyone you like to work with in the future?

Protoman: I want an EL-P remix of Redman, Ludacris and myself with original production from Rick Ruben put out on pink vinyl only.

What's next for Protoman?

Protoman: More records and more shows. I got a full-length I'm working really hard on now. I think a lot people will be surprised with the sound.

Any advice for those looking to pursue their aspirations in music?

Protoman: Do it for the love. Music cannot be monetized like you think it can. Be genuine and be yourself, that's when you will lay down your best work and get real fans that will support you.

For More On Protoman:
myspace.com/protoman
Rawkus 50

When the Time is Right

2010-09-01T11:36:00.001-04:00

When the
Time is Right
What’s cool about these guys right here… what
helps set them apart… is that they know what
they’re doing... exactly what they’re doing. They’re
making plans and sticking to them. They are the
Footwork4self Records family, and in short, their
history goes like this: Two dudes grow up on hiphop
in Minnesota in the early 90’s, and then life
puts them on different paths… until one day,
Ryan Kolquist runs into Ryan Britt (now known
as Jabrjaw) at the Purdy Lounge in Miami. They
reconnect and reminisce, and at the end of the
conversation Jabrjaw says, “when the time is right,
let’s get together and build.” Three years later,
the two reconnect and do just that. They build…
Footwork4self Records.
The idea for the label was hatched by Jabrjaw
(artist/co-owner) and his partner on the cut, DJ
Dee Dubbs (artist/co-owner) some years before,
but the recent introduction of Kolquist into the mix
as CEO/co-owner has formalized their structure a
bit, allowing them to expand the family by signing
on other artists to the label’s roster, artists like
Protoman, Lox Tha Rippa, and producer, Shawn
Wayne. There’s a well thought out business plan
for each of the individual artists on the label, an
intense touring schedule, and a release schedule
that includes the re-release of Lox Tha Rippa’s
underground classic CD, The Best Rhyme I Never
Wrote, as well as an upcoming 12” vinyl single
titled Funk Keeps Banging / Barley, Malt, & Hops
by Jabrjaw & Dee Dubbs. The release of the single
will start the campaign for promoting the release
of their full length album, Eastern Specifics. New
releases are also on the way for Shawn Wayne and
for Protoman, who is the more “digital minded” one
of the family, the one with the downloadable flow.
His modern approach to the business provides an
updated creative contrast to the overall “hip-hop
retro” vibe of the family, giving the label’s roster
some variety and stylistic range.
Nobody in the family exudes the retro vibe more
than DJ Dee Dubbs, who Kolquist speaks highly
of, “You don’t find too many people like Dubbs.
He’s an act in itself… a real turntablist.” And with
the quiet wisdom of a DJ, Dubbs chimes in, “vinyls
got weight. There’s weight behind it.” Kolquist also
speaks highly of Rhymesayers Entertainment, who
many readers might recognize as the label founded
by Atmosphere frontman Slug, based out of
Minneapolis, Minnesota... “We’ve done several shows
with Toki Wright and other Rhymesayers artists in
the recent past and will be doing more in the future.
They are who I have grown up listening to, and seen
evolve into the powerhouse they are today. Our
overall touring plan is pretty serious. We’ll be doing
shows in the Fall and Winter in Detroit, Las Vegas,
Boise, Minnesota, and California to mention a few.
In
between we will
be doing local
shows as well.” In
speaking of local
shows, our readers should know that
they can meet the entire FW4S family and a couple
new additions on stage at Propaganda in Lake
Worth on September 17th. For more info on that,
and everything else that’s going on with the label,
fans are encouraged to sign-up for the newsletter
at www.FW4S.com. Kolquist himself will keep
you informed as to what’s going on. You’ll become
extended family.
Timing is everything, and now the time is right for
a record label whose name combines a respect for
the “footwork” of hip-hop’s b-boy subculture with
the “do-for-self” mentality of eager entrepreneurs...
to follow through with all of their plans. Everything
is happening according to plan. The time is right.t

Freedom of choice. GO AMERICA!!

2010-08-31T16:48:00.001-04:00

http://citylinkmix.com/music/local-songs-freedom-of-choice/

Free crap

2010-08-31T12:35:00.001-04:00

It breaks my heart everyday seeing full albums for free download on blogs. Artist are so convinced nobody buys music. You work so hard, invest time + money + sweat + tears for a release that vanishes with a a site update. Is music this disposable now in days and worthless? I see it from both sides. But people must not have real fans that support. It's a conundrum. I understand if your a hobbyist and do-it for the love. That's dope if you want to leak that. I understand. But an artist trying to make it, give stuff out for free, and advance somehow..to what? Where is your income going to come from? shows? It's a catch-22. Build your own imprint and people that support. Don't sell yourself short, you're saying free still ain't good enough? You can't make money off music video's. Leak those. Leak mix-tape tracks and throw-a-ways. Press that CD/vinyl up for your own good. And if somebody thinks your dope. That your music is good. You tell them it's X amount to cop it. If they don't, your doing something wrong.

My first show. Way back when Protoman didn't exist yet. Can you say worst flyer ever?

2010-08-30T07:54:00.001-04:00

Wow

2010-08-30T05:49:00.001-04:00

Clumsy Best Man Ruins Wedding - Watch more Funny Videos

Yes, we get it. You fought Tupac.

2010-08-26T02:45:00.001-04:00

L.A.'s string of indie labels succeeds with a jack-of-all-trades approach

2010-08-25T17:35:00.001-04:00

http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/la-ca-la-indie-labels-20100822,0,7365459,full.story

With Arcade Fire at No. 1, there is growing focus on indie labels. L.A.'s scene is vibrant and varied, and it shows the value of passion over a big-business model.
Part of a series of occasional articles.

Two weeks ago, rock band Arcade Fire landed the No. 1 spot on the Billboard charts with its third album, "The Suburbs." For the band's devoted fans as well as some online music prognosticators, hitting the top in a country hopelessly devoted to Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber and Lady Gaga looked to be one of those watershed moments when art trumps commerce and some sort of musical reboot occurs.

For North Carolina independent label Merge Records, which signed Arcade Fire in 2004 and released "The Suburbs," the coup served as a reminder that a tectonic shift has taken place in the music business. No longer reliant on big-box stores to move physical CDs, homegrown imprints can focus their energies not on stuffing mailers and loading boxes but on pushing word of mouth, negotiating digital placement and marketing the music and the band.
Can't get radio play? Earn YouTube and Vimeo hits. Locked out of Wal-Mart or Starbucks? Hit iTunes, Amazon and eMusic. Twitter and Facebook your way into people's ears. Or better yet, get airplay on "Grey's Anatomy" or " CSI."

Los Angeles has long been home to a vibrant indie scene, from Specialty and Pacific Jazz to Elektra and Dunhill through the punk of Slash, SST and Frontier to rap imprints Ruthless, Priority and Delicious Vinyl. Epitaph, the artist-run punk powerhouse, hit it big in 1994 with the Offspring's six-times platinum album, "Smash," and continues to have one of the most solid rosters of any label in the country, large or small.

With record sales dwindling and digital downloads the medium of choice — 62% of first-week sales of "The Suburbs" were digital — the music business is showing even more signs of flattening, a reality evident at labels throughout Southern California.

A few blocks south of the Capitol Records Tower, it begins: Twenty-odd independent labels, links in a chain, stretching from the eastern fringe of Hollywood to the far end of Pasadena. There's Delicious Vinyl in Hollywood. Metal powerhouse Southern Lord overlooks Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood. Plug Research shares space with the Dublab DJ collective at Santa Monica Boulevard and Vermont Avenue. Stones Throw lies at the convergence of Highland Park, Atwater Village and Mount Washington.

They exist in offices in living rooms, above record stores and crammed into garages. They are owned by young musicians, industry expats and enthusiastic collectors. They have ties to live music hotspots such as the Smell and Low End Theory, and they count among their rosters established acts, buzzing up-and-comers and hidden gems.

"I don't want to hear some guy chomping on a cigar in Beverly Hills telling me it's all gone pear-shaped," said Jeff Castelaz, 37, co-owner of Silver Lake's Dangerbird Records, which occupies a prominent spot near Sunset Junction. "The people who invented the paradigm and were trusted to run it let it run afoul. We have to fix it."

Kevin Moo, 35, co-owner of Alpha Pup, a digital label and distributor headquartered downtown, sees the landscape as wide open: "There's a tremendous opportunity for independent music right now," he says. Alpha Pup's roster of acts from the L.A. beat scene has helped establish the city as a world center for electronic music.

L.A.'s big-league independents — labels such as Dangerbird, Alpha Pup or Stones Throw — have discovered the beauty of diversification. They combine standard label operations with artist management, album mastering, merchandising, licensing and promotion. Their charge is to become the only entity a band needs to satisfy its commercial and financial needs, including record and MP3 sales, film and television placements and even T-shirts.

Dangerbird, founded in 2004, scored a recent win of its own. The label's flagship band, Silversun Pickups, got a best new artist nomination for the 2010 Grammy Awards, a category historically filled by industry-vetted acts. SSPU lost to the Zac Brown Band, but it was still a victory for the label, which has sold 273,000 copies of the band's 2009 album, "Swoon," and 512,000 individual digital songs.

The label's rock-centric roster includes other locals like Sea Wolf and Darker My Love and reformed major label acts like Hot Hot Heat. In 2009, when worldwide music sales dropped 10%, Castelaz saw his label's gross "massively exceed" expectations.

At the other end of the spectrum is Eagle Rock's Not Not Fun, a bedroom operation that's never pressed more than 1,000 copies of any single release but still posted gains last year while supporting two people and paying artists. Britt Brown, 30, who founded Not Not Fun in 2006 with his wife, Amanda, 28, said he learned the importance of knowing the size of his customer base early on.

Britt Brown also attributed his imprint's growth to a more incidental factor.

"They sell actual vinyl at Urban Outfitters now," he said. "Trendy people I know own a record player and an iPod, and that's it. As for the death of CDs, I'm not going to shed a tear."

Scrappy DIY imprints like Brown's typically don't deal in CDs, the medium hit the hardest by illegal downloads. Instead, experimental or punk labels like Not Not Fun or Post Present Medium, founded by No Age drummer Dean Spunt and responsible for releases by, among others, Wavves, Silk Flowers and High Places, have long specialized in limited artifacts such as vinyl or cassettes.

They also don't incur the same costs as larger labels. Brown said he spends an average of $1,500 per full-length release — for 500 copies that the label sells for $12 apiece — with 20% of the profit going to the band. He'll put out as many as 20 such releases in a year from artists like Pocahaunted and Sun Araw, who are never signed to contracts.

By contrast, Stones Throw's baseline for an average release from one of its 15 or so active artists is $50,000, with net gains split equally between label and client. Getting an album into the iTunes Store is only about $10 per title, which means access to wider audiences and a bang-up profit margin on stock that never runs out.

"The one key advantage major labels had this entire time was distribution," said Alpha Pup's Moo. "Your average chain music store could hold, max, 4,000 titles at once. Half of those were new releases, [90%] of which were major, with every indie label on Earth fighting for those remaining 400 slots."

Moo's business, which also includes handling worldwide digital distribution of older indie labels, such as Westbound (Funkadelic, Ohio Players), is capable of sustaining releases that sell as few as 200 units via iTunes. Alpha Pup's setup is a modest empire of artist-run imprints too: seven digital sub-labels founded by cachet-carrying local names like Flying Lotus and Daedelus.

One of Alpha Pup's most profitable avenues is licensing songs for film, television and commercial Web use. Label and artist alike see a payday when one of their tracks is synced to video, whether via a blockbuster movie like Universal's "Repo Men" or a real estate clip made for YouTube. But the mother lode, Moo said, is in one of electronic music's biggest licensees, CBS' "CSI" franchise.

"We love 'CSI,'" he said. "They licensed seven tracks from Nosaj Thing's 'Drift,' practically every song on the album." Legally, he couldn't reveal a dollar figure but said that, generally speaking, "one license can pay the rent for a year. You can keep the lights on, literally."

Stones Throw label manager Eothen "Egon" Alapatt told a similar story. Placement of an instrumental rap beat by producer Oh No in a recent Mountain Dew commercial beat CD sales 10 to 1 in terms of profit. Better still was the "dream deal" the label struck on behalf of rising R&B artist Aloe Blacc, whose "I Need a Dollar" is the theme song of HBO's "How to Make It in America." On top of the significant cash boon, "his record will actually sell," said Alapatt. "The writing's on the wall."

The success of Moo's low-overhead digital system has a brick-and-mortar benefactor as well. The Alpha Pup boss also runs Low End Theory, the weekly Lincoln Heights club night that's been hailed here and abroad as providing electronic music with its next big evolutionary step. Along with all-ages punk venue the Smell — which helped vault such artists as No Age, Mika Miko and Abe Vigoda into the limelight — this Eastside hub has come to represent something of a renaissance for independent artists in L.A.

Fans of emerging music are accustomed to discovering new acts online, helping to drive business to these labels. And it doesn't hurt that there seems to be an abundance of great music in those same labels' backyard. To wit: Stones Throw's tandem 2009 signings of local soul sensation Mayer Hawthorne and Leimert Park funk astronaut Dâm-Funk; the blog-heralded rise of psych-pop acts like Echo Park's Nite Jewel and Eagle Rock's Best Coast; and, of course, that the biggest band in Silver Lake, Silversun Pickups, made it onto the biggest music award show in the world.

"I don't think we would've had any chance of success if we weren't on a label like Dangerbird," said SSPU singer Brian Aubert. "They believe in careers, and the long haul — something that majors used to believe in. They stuck with us when most people wouldn't have."

That the traditional recording industry is rooted in L.A. has undoubtedly contributed to the local indie uprising. Both Moo, who worked for Sony until 2007, and Castelaz, a longtime music manager, said they had the opportunity to witness firsthand what not to do when it came time to launch their labels. The main lesson: to keep the operation at a reasonable scale, employing, say, a staff of 10 instead of thousands.

"There are going to be far fewer skyscrapers in the music business," said Castelaz, "and many, many more squat buildings that are filled with purpose."

Power Up.

2010-08-25T17:34:00.000-04:00

It's so cold.

2010-08-25T17:33:00.002-04:00

Serum - Brainstorm Troopah (official music video)

2010-08-25T17:33:00.001-04:00

Is this for real? Please tell me no.

2010-08-25T17:32:00.001-04:00

hmmm

2010-08-25T17:25:00.001-04:00

Everybody is a fucking critic with social media. You let it bleed into real life dialogue which is a waste of breath. Try discussing IDEAS instead of events, or even worse - people. We're all guilty, even me, but lets remember what is really important here.

"Crazy"

2010-08-18T01:16:00.001-04:00

Dope write-up in the new times.

http://blogs.miaminewtimes.com/crossfade/2010/08/song_spotlight_protoman_-_craz.php

Dade County and Broward County collaborate on this one. E.R. (of the Vagabonds) supplies the beat as Protoman supplies the vocals. You might know Protoman as being an underground staple in not only Broward and South Florida's hip-hop scenes, but also nationally as he's been well received around the country and also on many hip-hop blogs across the board.

Promotman's politically incorrect attitude and his "I don't give a f*ck" flow - definitely is refreshing to hear. When you need a break from listening to raps about bottle poppin' and club hoppin' - Protoman is always there to fill that void.

Protoman calls upon the assistance of Miami based producer E.R. from the group The Vagabonds. The song is called "Crazy" and according to E.R., the track is based of being "based on an inside look of a man who's been driven wild by a woman."

The production on the track is very upbeat and up-tempo. Very funky and very different from most of the stuff Protoman has jumped on recently. E.R. is definitely setting himself up to be a producer to watch for. The crisply drums mixed with a driving bass and a set of horn samples with incredible personality.

As far as the track, well, Protoman definitely goes in. Whatever you can imagine the perfect love song that ever existed sounds like...well, this is pretty much the complete opposite of that. And for this specific instance, it works. Its like a love story gone wrong. Terribly wrong.

Listen to the song below and follow along.

MP3: Protoman - Crazy (Produced by E.R.)
http://www.mediafire.com/?e7ii2u6qllj07y1

Rapper Embarrasses Himself On Bun B's Stage

2010-08-16T19:19:00.000-04:00

Every Morning

2010-08-14T05:05:00.001-04:00

So there's this older white lady I see every morning at this time (7ish--if I'm up) walking down the street in front of my house with a 12-pack of Busch she just bought at the corner store. 7am, really? No bag or nothing? Just holding it there with its perforated cardboard handle, huh? I really got to kick it with he...r one day and watch Maury drinking with her.

It's been about a week since 'YNOT' has passed away..

2010-08-14T04:52:00.000-04:00

It's
been about a week since 'YNOT' has passed away. During that time, from
WPB to Miami, it's been a common topic among people I've spoken to.
Living in the same city you cross paths a lot and give mutual respect to
graff writers repping your hood. I recorded a freestyle years ago and
shouted him and 'Dose' out when ...they
were killing shit. They always showed love back. Element to element. I
use to love rapping this verse and see the crowd acknowledge when the
line hit. They had more fame than any billboard on any highway ever
combined. Your art and influence will always live on.

Protoman - Can I Have It Like That by Protoman

Protoman+Bleubird+DJ Rob Riggs Free Download MP3

2010-08-14T04:50:00.003-04:00

Two
Florida rap veterans, Protoman (DMG, Rawkus 50, FW4S) and Bleubird
(Epidemik, Grimm Image Records) finally trade verses on a track entitled
"Guns Don't Kill People (Florida Does)". This funk inspired breakbeat
produced by Dantanna also features a fury of cuts by DJ Rob Riggs
(Scratch Academy). The Florida themed record is an ode to the randomness
and dysfunctional hidden culture of "The Gunshine State".

Mediafire: http://www.mediafire.com/?..wlmwhwoqncgz2lb

Usershare: http://usershare.net/..zbg2eeup10u5

Few Words +Old Song?

2010-08-14T04:50:00.001-04:00

I use to write a lot more to you guys, I think it was mutual and just as beneficial for both of us to talk about what goes on in our lives. I've never been that type of artist to brush off any of my fans, I've chopped it up with a lot of you over the years and even though most of you are strangers, we do share some sort of a weird bond. Life is at all time ''wtf'' moment right now for me. It is so hard sometimes to find inspiration at times. It really trips me out when I hear that I inspire some of you. That is the greatest feeling in the world and the most rewarding being an artist I can ponder. You can be the dopest, the flashiest, the most popular, but if your not helping people feel good about themselves and get through the day with some confidence, what are you making music for, really? I've kind of lost that these past years. And I'm going to get it back. The passion. The stuff that's suppose to reflect on to you, then bounces off you to the next person, and so forth. I have no idea what I'm doing at this moment except that I'm going to be making another record. This time I'm going to be having some people behind me that really believe in this. A new label. A new deal. Another opportunity to do it right.
These people are taking a risk with me. Not just financially. It's way more serious than that. What do I have to lose? It scares the shit out of me, but I'm going to do it one last time before I self destruct. And I'm going to do it right this time for you. Whoever is left. Whoever has been here the whole time or whoever just stepped aboard. This one will be for you. For us. Because I need to make another record that doesn't just get me props or a shock value award. It's got to be way bigger than that, it's got to be way deeper. I'm not trying to be emo here, not trying to build some stupid generic hype. This is real. This isn't going to a publicist or an email blast. This is between me and you. Times right now are the craziest they have ever been for my friends, family, and myself. We are all going through some real serious shit and we're all just trying to keep it from becoming unglued. Keep it together. I keep things very private and hidden. I think I do it very well, but it's been eating it's way out of me. I want to give you the best record I can before I lose it. Gees, this must sound so stupid to you.
Sometimes I have no idea who I am or where I'm going. It'll happen like once a year and I'll submerge into old photos and songs I've recorded. I hate doing it but it shows me where I've come from, how far I've come, and still how long I've got to go. I did that today. I want to share a song (isn't that what the internet has been perfected for?) with you I recorded about 6 or so years ago. I played a very rough show at this place called "Hot Dogs" and went directly home after, wrote and recorded it with a hoarse voice. This same show embarks rapper Souleye's debut for myself ,who is now married to Alanis Morrisette, and most likely has a $1,000,000 in the bank. This is around the time cats were just putting me down. I found a home with other aspiring artists, who are now some of my best friends and helped me figure out what I should and shouldn't be doing . There are some samples spliced in from even OLDER songs in here from when I just a young man, 16 or so, staying up all night teaching myself how to rap on beat in my room from a suburb of Dallas. I'm not giving up yet, just hang in there a little longer with me. I wish you all much success and happiness. We are all priceless. Never settle for nothing less than your worth.

TNM.

P.S. Hope to see all the locals this Saturday with Toki Wright and Grieves at Propaganda. Take care.

"Hold Me Down"
http://www.divshare.com/do..wnload/11805361-99b

Protoman - Runnin' from the Law (Produced by Numonics)

2010-08-14T04:48:00.000-04:00

Ft. Lauderdale’s Protoman (Diamond Music Group, Rawkus) and Numonics
combine for a new track entitled “Runnin’ From The Law”. This gritty
record features Proto’s self deprecating and obscene rhymes over an edgy
funk inspired beat provided by Numonics.

http://www.hiphopdx.com/index/audio/id.11087/title.protoman-runnin-from-the-law-prod-numonics

PROTOMAN & SEBINO - 86'd (EP) IS NOW AVAILABLE!!

2010-08-14T04:45:00.000-04:00

4.07.10: PROTOMAN & SEBINO - 86'd
(EP) IS NOW AVAILABLE!!

PROTOMAN
& SEBINO - 86'd (EP)

CLICK TO PURCHASE ON iTUNES

Release Date: 4.06.2010

South Florida based emcee Protoman joins forces with L.A. beat smith
Sebino for the release of 86'd. Recorded in both LA &
Miami, 86'd fuses the feel of both cities using Protoman's
skillful lyrics & Sebino's 808 kicks & synth heavy bass lines.
Used as a term for being banned, 86'd captures an untold &
taboo world of drug abuse, women, post-war psychotic-ism & pop
culture. This EP features the iTunes exclusive remix of "Movie Star",
produced by Speruption out of Finland . This remix was chosen out of
several submissions as part of the official "Movie Star" Remix Contest
that was promoted online along with the contest's sponsor, Flud Watches.
Click here
or on either of the links below to download the original, Sebino
produced version of "Movie Star" that is also featured on the EP.

Download | MediaFire: http://www.mediafire.com/?md5jmgzdied

Download | Zshare: http://www.zshare.net/audio/7468532255af1855/

I hate you Camel Girl

2010-08-14T04:44:00.000-04:00

I hate you Camel Girl. Giving out your free candy flavored Crush. With your little tote bags. Why, yes I have my I.D. Here, scan it. Sell it to insurance companies and prove I smoke. It's OK. Your cigarette has magic built in with a menthol crystal of happiness. I love you Camel Girl.

Protoman x DJ Idee x Grandmaster Dee = Disaster

2010-08-14T04:41:00.000-04:00

So very few know this story, well, because it's depressing and few people witnessed it. But, I
think it's funny so I'll share it. I even dug up some pics from this
monumental night courtesy of DJ Rob Riggs.

This must be about 3 years ago. The scene. Roxanne's. A short lived,
but famous, weekly Hip Hop night in Fort Lauderdale. I would perform
time to time. Nice spot. This particular night I somehow convinced DJ
Idee to come play with me. Mind you, this guy has traveled the world,
has won multiple titles, and has incredible clout amongst the worlds
top DJ's.

Either I tricked him or he was being nice that night. I can't remember.
Well, Grandmaster Dee is in town. If you do not know Dee, do your
homework of Whodini and the impact they had on the culture.

Well the night before our show at Roxannes there was a Rakim show down
the street. Mid-section of the show, I think either Rakim or Kid Cupri
(who was DJ'ing for Ra) invited Grandmaster Dee out on the stage. The
crowd went wild when Dee took the mic and starting chanting some famous
lines. He gave a speech and gave respect to everyone in the house. It
was a very pleasant and sober Dee.

Now we're at Roxanne's and it's fucking dead. I don't know what
happened with promotion. Maybe people were tired from the Ra show or
just didn't give a fuck. But hardly anyone came out. So the night was
already shitty. I felt bad for Idee, and selfish, and all my
over-thinking I do and was bummed. Then it begins. Dee comes strolling
in by himself and he is lit!! Here's a pic of when Dee got to talk to
Idee and me before the show.

Idee and myself became trapped in a drunken slur. We couldn't
understand what he was saying most of the time. He kept holding us,
literally, by the necks like a drunk would and would not let us leave.
We have tremendous respect for this guy. He, and Whodine, have opened
doors for us to do what we do. This was a very awkward moment and it
lasted a long time. I won't quote what he said, but he acted like we
were his therapist and it was very sad. I then realized Hip Hop is a
dirty game that leaves you robbed with no retirement.

Finally, it's our time to rock. There is maybe like 30 fucking people
there. I feel so bad dragging Idee out here i'm thinking. It's not like
we were getting paid for the show or anything. Anyways, I notice
Grandmaster Dee in the crowd. Ok nice. We keep performing, he comes up
front. Dope. Now I have a part of a song where the crowd can say the
line. I think they say, "Kill the Radio". It's a pretty easy concept to
follow. Every time they would chant it, I would hold the mic to a
persons face. People love that. They get to be heard. Well mid-song,
during the chant, the mic (in my hand) goes to Grandmaster Dee to say
the hook and this dude straight jacks it from me in one motion and
jumps on stage!!

O wow. Fuck it Idee. Let's play along.

Let the man say a few words. Cut the beat. This is when it got ugly.
He must have thought he was at that Rakim show again. Tried to do the
same thing, but completely wasted. He had no proper introduction from
me, so nobody knows who he is, and people start booing. It's gets ugly.
Like the bartender was about to come up and fight him. Here's some pics
from that. I know I'm smiling and laughing. I do that in times of
disaster.

Now all of a sudden, Out of nowhere. Like Snoop Dogg's cameo in "Half
Baked" up pops the infamous Danny G. And he's holding a mic!! I didn't
even know he got a mic, or who gave him one. But i'm standing there
without one. Now Danny is trying to explain how much of a legend this
guy is but nobody cares at this point. The damage is done. It's gets
awkward man. I'm looking at Idee like, "What should we do?". I go by
him and whisper, "Just run the next track, I'll steal back the mic." So
this is when it's gets funny cause the next track is "One, two" off the
"Grey Area" LP. Anybody who knows that track knows the first verse is
very battle oriented. So I grab the mic back and reload. Dee stays on
the stage. At this point I was just want to finish, go home, and cry
myself to sleep. I start to rap while he acts like my hypeman. Like I'm
rapping to him. He's looking at me. But this rhyme is like, "Fuck you" and very abusive.
So it came off like I really meant it!! and then he realized shit was
on. He's trying to get the mic back now to rap back!! Fuck man. I don't
remember what happened after. I'm sure we just ended it right there. I
told Idee I was sorry and I know why DJ's deep down inside, all of
them, secretly hate rappers.

Anyways, I think this is a special story and wanted to share.

THE ABSOLUTE MOST FUCKED UP MOVIE EVER!!!!

2010-08-14T04:40:00.000-04:00

http://theculturalgutter.com/movies/is_milo_in_heaven_mommy.html

Over the decades, rumours about the existence of snuff movies has run rampant despite the fact that no evidence exists to support these dark claims. After a large amount of my own research into the topic, I've come up with nothing but a lot of dead ends and goofy urban legends... with one exception.
In August, 1989, Columbia Pictures unleashed on America the one and only true snuff movie ever released, a children's movie called The Adventures of Milo and Otis, which was a revamped version of a popular Japanese film Koneko Monogatari: The Adventures of Chatran.
Debuting in Japan three years earlier, Koneko Monogatari (A Kitten's Story) was an arty film not geared towards children at all, but adults, and as early as October 1986, mere months after Chatran debuted in Japan, reports about the animal cruelty on display surfaced not only in Japan, but elsewhere.
"Chatran's life is full of trials and tribulations," the UK's Economist pointed out. "Many of them to do with being soaked to the skin, like falling over a waterfall in a wooden box or plummeting from a cliff into the sea. It is hard to see how he survived. Indeed, according to Japan's biggest animal-rights group, he did not. Or, to be accurate, a third of the 30 Chatrans used did not."
Columbia Pictures ignored the reports of abuse and kitty and puppy killing by the Japanese production unhindered by animal rights laws, and noted instead that the film was making huge profits in Japan. Money talks, and executives at Columbia picked it up with a mind to overhaul and Americanise the feature -- as is common for most foreign films being marketed in the USA. "It needed to be tailored to American kids who watch Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, " said Brandt Reiter, an account executive at Fujisankei, the Japanese owners of the film.
Fuji supplied Columbia with almost 70 hours of extra footage from which to make their own edit of the movie. The succession of abuses would now be labelled as Milo and Otis's "adventures", and designed to baby-sit American kids.
"Some might say we vulgarised it," said Jim Clark (the man in charge of overhauling the movie), "but we felt it was on the arty side."
Jim quickened the pace, added a long, exhausting sequence where the dog and cat adopt a new-born chick, brought in nutty British star Dudley Moore to narrate and do stupid animal voices, and finally removed many graphic scenes of animals fighting and other atrocities.
Astonishingly though, much of the violence and obviously snuffy footage is still clearly visible despite the fact that Columbia supposedly recut the movie for a grade school audience. The cat, renamed Milo, still takes a long plunge off a cliff into the ocean into rough ocean surf (harrowing scenes of him trying in vain to climb back up were cut), is attacked viciously by angry birds, encounters a pissed off snake, is bitten on the nose and lip by a crab, is sent white water rafting down a river in a flimsy little box, and all while Dudley Moore baby talks stupid shit like "Oh dear me! Oh my! Goodness!"
Despite its happy-go-lucky kids movie marketing, the actual content of Milo and Otis is a deeply troubling film that shows animals in obvious pain and distress, and (in some cases) the midst of horrific death. According to the American Human Society, it is rumoured that as many as 27 cats were killed in the production of the picture.
There are other animal movies from the era, such as Homeward Bound with predatory animals and river scenes, but I've seen both movies and compared them. From every artistic standpoint, Homeward Bound is a far inferior film, but it's obvious (or at least it should be) when something is edited in a kids movie in a way that you know that the animals are safe. But here we see Milo floating quickly downstream in the rapids, the box ALMOST tipping over constantly, and the poor cat looking scared outta his fucking mind. There are no cuts or closeups, indicative of a faked scene.
Despite Columbia's obvious position that there was no basis to these allegations of abuse, rumours did swirl but were seemingly quelled immediately after reviews by the Toronto Star and a New Jersey newspaper that noted:
"All [the scenes in which Milo and Otis appear to be in danger] may be momentarily unsettling for young viewers, but it's comforting to see in the closing credits that 'the animals used were filmed under strict supervision with the utmost care for their safety and well-being'."
But what these reviewers fail to notice is that despite this flowery language, Columbia took great pains not to say "no animals were harmed," which has been boilerplate language on movie animal disclaimers for as long as anyone can remember. Oddly, the American Human Society has done its bit to keep Columbia's dirty little secret by suspiciously not including The Adventures of Milo and Otis in its "Current index of film ratings index". Do I smell a cover-up?miloadvents.jpg
Milo isn't the only character who is fucked with, although he does bear the brunt. Otis, the dog, is sent naked-pawed through drifts of deep snow, forced to swim to the point where the dog is obviously drowning, and in one memorable scene, is pitted against a very angry bear.
Most of the people commenting on the movie's listing on the internet movie database are blissfully unaware of the behind the scenes story on the film they're reviewing, calling it "wholesome" and "perfect for the whole family", to the point where one horrified mother's take on the film sticks out like a sore thumb:
"I'm so upset. I purchased this movie for my son for Valentines Day. I read the back of the movie before purchase, Rated G, cute little story, made by Columbia Pictures, endorsed by The Washington Post, purchased at Walmart for $5 bucks. How can this be wrong? WRONG is when my little son came running "They're torturing the animals! I could not believe my eyes! Kittens screeching for their lives, animals yelping through out, a dog getting whacked by a bear with a sudden cut away as if the dog was killed. Animals don't jump off 100 foot cliffs on their own. Don't show this movie to any child!"
Another reviewer clues in as well later on down the list of comments:
"Chatran has the only merit to show how far you can go to earn a fistful of miserable bucks. Sacrificing a dozen cats who never asked for anything does not represent my conception of bringing fantasy and entertainment to an audience. There's a difference between a horse with a broken leg and five cats thrown from a cliff until one survives and the sequence is wrapped up. Watching Chatran is like witnessing scientific experiments on animals, except here, the only goal is to make money."
But not everyone shared this point of view. One reviewer on amazon.com pointed out that "Animals Were Created For Our Enjoyment: Biblically Speaking" and that "mental torture is not possible on the animals performing in this great kids film". He finishes his argument by chiding those who disagree with his stance; "The late Dudley Moore would never have lent his narrative voice to a movie he didn't believe in and you should be ashamed of yourselves for thinking you're above this highly entertaining, and animal-friendly film."
Ashamed? Yeah, there is some shame to be handed out in this situation, but it shouldn't be directed at the audience. The people responsible for the making and distribution of Milo And Otis know who they are. I hope they made enough money off it to help them sleep at night, because I don't think my conscience would allow me any rest if I were them.

Read more: http://www.myspace.com/protoman/blog?page=7#ixzz0wZGkcNpn

Back in the Swamp

2010-08-14T04:39:00.000-04:00

it's been nearly four months since I been back and it's bittersweet but comfortable in the familiar territory of South Florida. I cleared my head big time and got to think over alot of things while away, I feel I'm back to normal. But my "normal" has always been fucked but it's still pleasant in my own kind of sick way. Alot of people thought I went to California to push music and try to breakthru there. In reality it was the total opposite. I went out there to get away. I didn't want to make it a statement, it's not that serious, but it's the truth.

I got to a point with music where I wanted to quit. It just wasn't fun anymore. I had no drive left and really didn't have that spark anymore. I was content with walking away. I'm not going to complain about why I felt this way. I just did.

I'm hate to admit it but it wasn't me, it was my surroundings. It was here. I needed a change and I got it. I have it all.

I been away thinking. Writing. Not writing raps, but ideas, plans, and ways to change everything. I read alot. Kept away from TV. Away from other people. Other influences. I explored my own brain and fixed all the dead ends and burnt bridges.

Now I am so antsy to make music now. It's been boiling under my skin like hatching insect eggs these past few weeks. I have a direction. I have a rough draft. I have something I haven't had in a long time. A purpose.

Thanks to everyone for holding me down. You know you are. Thank you.

Great minds discuss ideas;
Average minds discuss events;
Small minds discuss people.
-Eleanor Roosevelt

So my homies like MF Doom. Like a whole lot.

2010-08-14T04:38:00.000-04:00

Why do I always get in fights with cats slanging CD's?

2010-08-14T04:37:00.000-04:00

So today I was in a Orange County shopping plaza. It was a nice one. I thought I was safe. Then as I'm walking from Big Lot's to Petco a man jumps out from behind a pillar and says, "Yo, check out my CD!.'' "FUCK!" I'm thinking. Not this shit again. I literally took back like two steps when he came up. I thought he was trying to rob me at first bum rushing. The first thing I tell him is , "I got no money". He says, "I don't need money. See that Escalade on 23's right there? That's my truck. I don't need money". I tell him, "Then I'm in a hurry.'' He says "why you jumpy man? Looking like you ready to flex?". I'm like, "you fucking popped out and scared me and started shoving your CD in my face!. Why you wasting your time here trying to sell your CD when you got an Escalade? Is this how you make payments??"

Anyways. I defuse it. I was already in a bad mood when he ran up on me. He had some other dude in the truck. I'm not trying to fight really. But man. I really hate looking like I listen to Hip Hop, let alone rap. Everybody everywhere is trying to sell me a CD. And I'm not saying I wouldn't buy a CD. But 95% of artist who sell CDs on the street like that have shitty CDs. You know it's the truth. I thought Florida was bad but LA is waaaay worse. People on every corner. I respect the hustle. But are you a salesman or a rapper? Maybe I'm hating but I just don't like the strangers running up on me trying to outsmart me. Putting nasty headphones on my ears..get the fuck outta my face.

I use to battle cats that way. Your CD's dope? Lets rap. If you win I'll buy your shit. I win. Give me that CD for free.

I'm just gonna dress hipster or emo or hardcore. None of those genres have artist on the corner acting like superstars.

Sorry for hating again but this rap stigma is eating me alive. I either need to throw it up or dilute it with some medicine. I can't stomach it no longer. I'll stop here.

God Bless Texas and Waffles

2010-08-14T04:36:00.002-04:00

I met a guy today who told me..

2010-08-14T04:36:00.001-04:00

..he just had a major heart attack. He was in a wheelchair. He was a former prosecutor with enemies. Anyway while he was at the hospital someone tried to break into his home but was faced with his K9. They shot the K9 twice and killed him. So he finds out this news at the hospital while recovering. Way to ruin your day.

New Protoman interview conducted by DJ Z "The Radio Rescue" WDBK 91.5

2010-08-14T04:34:00.000-04:00

Catch it live June 30, 2009 if your in the NJ area. Peace. Just hit play.

List of all the jobs I've had thusfar..

2010-08-14T04:33:00.000-04:00

1. Skate Shop
2. Smoothie King
3. Painter/Remodeling
4. Car Wash
5. Radio Shack
6. Ecko Retail
7. Two Pizza Spots
8. Whole Foods
9. Ice Cream Shop
10. Pest Control
11. Escort Driver (don't wanna know..)
12. Home Alarm Installer
13. Production Artist for graphics
14. FAO Schwartz inbound catalog phone job
15. Phone job _ people call in those "how am I driving stickers". Yea I would pick up.
16. PF Changs Food runner
17. Grease fan cleaner
18. Mailroom
19. Solicitor for Spa Packages
20. Mover of new furniture to homes
21. Warehouse for musical books for schools
22. Drug Dealer, only weed though
23. Window Washer.

I know I'm forgetting some. Ill edit this if they come to mind. Keep in mind some of these I quit after one day. Anyways post all the jobs you've had!!

I've always had this weird fantasy..

2010-08-14T04:32:00.002-04:00

..of Big Pun taking me out to eat at Olive Garden. Just tearing that bitch up. Of course he would order the "Tour of Italy" (substitute the lasagna for a 2nd Chicken Parm) and me..the Chicken Alfredo. I picture him keeping a lookout while I stuff some breadsticks folded in half in my cargo pocket for home later on. Yea. Me and Pun.

Cisco (Liquid Crack)

2010-08-14T04:32:00.001-04:00

I found this at big lots. We bought all of them. Big mistake drinking those before bike riding in Santa Monica. THEY WERE A DOLLAR FIFTY EACH!! Cheaper than water of the same volume. Unbeilvible.

Mickey's + Orange Juice = wow

2010-08-14T04:31:00.000-04:00

So Soundbombing ll turns 10 years old today

2010-08-14T04:30:00.000-04:00

Its hard to believe. It was one of the main influences for me to start making songs and really pushing rap. I think I was in 8th grade at this time. I remember bringing the clean version, bought it by accident..couldn't return CDs after you opened them, to class. My teacher was straight as fuck and let us bump it while we did work in the afternoons.

Soundbombing II will remain one of my favorite release s of all time. I was a young kid totally possessed at that point by Hip Hop it was like a religion. I still remember ordering a sweatshirt from the Rawkus website for 45 bux. It took about 2 months to come in the mail. Who would have thought 9 years later Rawkus would be sending me a check, that also took about 2 months to come..., to cut a video.

Times have changed. Underground is gone. Soundbombing ll was a huge above surface tidal wave that took over new ears that was hidden on college stations, vinly, and mixtapes up to that point.

Many artist from that release have used the foundation built from that record to carry on solid careers to this point. There would be no Def Jux without Rawkus and Soundbombing.

Anyways I just want to let you know how time flies and reflect a little on a favorite time of my life. Its been 10 years. I'm ready for the next decade. Hopefully history repeats itself and we can carry on tradition.

Crazy Pitbull

2010-08-14T04:28:00.001-04:00

my crzy dog Buddy jumped out of the back of a moving truck. I had him in the back cause I wanted to feel American. We got about 1/4 down the street when he decided he wanted to be in the front with me. So he preceded to jump out, roll a few times, and run around to the passenger side to have the door already flung open by me.
he'll live.

Condoms on my windshield

2010-08-14T04:27:00.003-04:00

So I woke up this morning to find my car with a few single wrapped condoms on the windshield . They wernt open. One was placed under the wiper arm. I think I know who did it. I had the car parked on the side of the street, not my drive way, so someone must have walked by and did it.

There is this hot 13,14,15 year old girl. I don't know how old she is exactly but she dresses like a grown ho. I see her on my street. She'll walk by all the time with a new young kid but always eyeing me. Saying hi. Saying hi to my dog.

I think its her though. She must have went to a clinic and got free condoms. She always walks by my house on the way to the corner store late at night. I don't even think she is in school. Anyway, I know its not right hollering at her, but lemme loosely quote David Cross, "I think the legal fucking age should be 15. They are already fucking at 13. Why should a pimply face 16 year old have sex and bust in 2 minutes with her but I can't. I'm a grown man with skills."

Wanna have a pornstar name?

2010-08-14T04:27:00.001-04:00

All you have to do is combine the name of your first pet and the street you grew up on (if it's a numbered street think of a named intersection that was close by).

then BOOM!!!

there is your new porn name. Now get to work.

Mine is "Buster Rock Island" btw. Shit is serious.

Marley and Me

2010-08-14T04:26:00.001-04:00

My new wife

2010-08-14T04:23:00.000-04:00

A picture of my Mercedes Tattoo for those who've asked

2010-08-14T04:22:00.002-04:00

I get some messages from people asking to see it. Here it is. Drool. Done by Vince @ Colorfast.