Eksd Out Magazine – Featuring Fecko

EKSD OUT featured a brother on the latest edition of the e-Magazine. Check it out here.

NEWS | Public Enemy’s Chuck D features Nigerian Emcee Fecko on Radio Show

Recently one of Fecko's biggest African hip hop collaborations tititled 'Raw African Poetry 2.0' featuring Khaligraph (Kenya), Dominant-1 (Malawi), The Holstar (Zambia) and Raiza Biza (Rwanda) was playlisted on the Planet Earth Planet Rap radio segment of Chuck D's AndYouDontStop radio show on June 27, 2014.

The 120 minute Epicenter of Hip-Hop and Rap Music, broadcast 75% across New York City Metro skies on famed powerful radio signal WBAI 99.5 FM, and 100% on RAPSTATION The Earths Loudest RAP Radio Internetwork.

The founder of RAPSTATION, Chuck D, is an American rapper, author, and producer. He helped create politically and socially conscious rap music in the mid-1980s as the leader of the rap group Public Enemy. while The Source magazine ranked him #12 on their list of the Top 50 Hip Hop lyricists of all time.

25 years old Lagos-based emcee, Fecko, who also made it to DatPiff's 'Hot This Week' after getting a spot on an international mixtape hosted by StarVation, feels highly honored to be the second Nigerian artist that has been featured on such an international platform. Prior to Fecko's debut on the PEPR Radio segment (hosted by MikKo Kapanen and Amkelwa Mbekeni), revered Nigerian lyricist, Modenine was also featured on the radio show.

Connect with Fecko
http://twitter.com/thisisfecko
http;//instagram.com/thisisfecko
http://facebook.com/thisisfecko

TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID CONTRACTING THE EBOLA VIRUS

EBOLA DISEASE AS OF TODAY HAS NO CURE, HERE ARE SOME FEW TIPS THAT CAN HELP PROTECT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY FROM THE DEADLY VIRUS

1. Avoid bush meat or any meat you are not sure of its source.
2. Avoid Pig farms, Pig farms in Africa play a role in the amplification of infection because of the presence of fruit bats on these farms.
3. Wash your hands frequently with detergent or soap using clean water.
4. Avoid trips to Ebola endemic countries (DRC ,UGANDA , CONGO, GABON SUDAN etc)
5. Get a hand sanitizer for people to use in your office and educate them on the importance of sanitizers, Get one for your kids to use in school frequently and if possible for their class.
6. Avoid buying Food stuffs, Clothing or other personal materials from Markets/Shops that share the same vicinity with live or roasted bush meat, dealer’s or sellers
7. Be careful with hands when using railings on the stairs, door knobs and other utilities used by the public.
8. Gloves and other appropriate protective clothing should be worn when handling sick animals or their tissues
9. Watch out for people with flu-like symptoms and sudden fever.
10. Avoid bat meats and bat products

FOR HEALTH WORKERS;
WHO states as follows, Standard precautions are recommended in the care and treatment of all patients regardless of their perceived or confirmed infectious status.

They include the basic level of infection control—hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment to avoid direct contact with blood and body fluids, prevention of needle stick and injuries from other sharp instruments, and a set of environmental controls.
*Signs and symptoms of Ebola*
EVD is a severe acute viral illness often characterized by the sudden onset of
1.Fever
2.Intense weakness
3.Muscle pain,
4.Headache and sore throat.
5.Followed by vomiting, Diarrhea, Rash, Impaired kidney and Liver function, and in some cases, both internal and external bleeding by (Oche Otorkpa is a WHO Trained IDSR Specialist)

MUSIC | Mister Rae, Fecko & Alkan-I - Cynthia Rothrock

Str8 Buttah's Mister Rae, Fecko and Al Kan-i drop a new hip hop track named after the female martial arts actor popular in the '80's 'Cynthia Rothrock'.

This is a one off track and collaboration between Nigeria and Zambia, produced by Teck-Zilla. The three African emcees kicked witty bars on bars on bars, while the mood of the track can be described as 'angry and intense', as gunshots was used for the snares.

Hip hop heads shouldn't sleep on this gem. Tough track!

DOWNLOAD

MUSIC l Tupengo - O'Cabatua

Here’s a new high tempo tune from Tupengo titled ‘O Cabatua’. Listen Below. Art cover was designed by me, while the song was produced by S.T.O Beats.

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DJ OSKARR LAUNCHES PODCAST FOR ZIM HIPHOP

A Cyprus based Zimbabwean DJ known as Oskarr has put in a great contribution in the growing Zimhiphop industry by creating a new Podcast which will drop once every mid month. The first podcast was dropped on soundcloud on Friday 13, June 2014. It features some of Zimbabwe's finest emcees. I gave a shout out on the mix by the way.

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MUSIC | K.E.I.Z.Y - Who Dah

Promising Nigerian female rapper K.E.I.Z.Y drops a new track titled 'Who Dat' - produced by Michael Gabriel. The song is going to be included on her forthcoming EP tentatively titled 'Deux Ex Machina'. 

The Lagos based femcee and graduate of Bowen University has an intimidating flow and barritone voice texture that sets her apart from her fellow female hip hop counterparts.

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Back 2 Da Boom Bap mixtape Vol. 1 (hosted by DJ Smooth) now available!

Rap collective StarVation along with C4, Nenjah Nycist, D.N.A., Mike Tess, Krytic, Kojo, Illa Ills, Fecko, Modenine, Raezy, D.J. Slice, Mars Co-Op, and hip-hop trio Aces High make up the first “Back 2 Da Boom Bap” mix-tape hosted by Rhythm FM 93.7 deejay Smooth.

The mix-tape displaying the talents of the aforementioned artists spans three continents including Africa, Europe, and the United States and encompasses that old school flair that “real” hip-hop head know and love.

GET IT ON DATPIFF!

Download Mixtape | Free Mixtapes Powered by DatPiff.com

VIDEO | Fecko Performs At Enigma Variety Nite

Performed at Enigma Variety Nite on June 4th. Venue was The Place by Marcus in Victoria Island, Lagos. Watch a short clip of my performance below.

VIDEO | 2Face Idibia ft Bridget Kelly - Let Somebody Love You

After the released of his album tracklist 2face is out with the video for the song “Let somebody Love You” featuring RocNation’s Bridget Kelly. The song which has being making waves since it release a week ago has being enjoying massive airplays.

The video is just as impressive as the audio, it highlights the musical chemistry between 2face andBridget Kelly, and provides visual dimension and depth to the timeless message in the song.

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MUSIC | Simi – E No Go Funny + Tiff

X3M Music is proud to present one of their latest singing sensations, Simi, as she marks her grand entry into the Nigerian music scene.

Simi warms the hearts of her fast growing fan base with two brand new singles ‘E No Go Funny’ and‘Tiff’. Trust when we say you’ll be stunned with her latest offering

DOWNLOAD HERE 

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Multikraft Media...Your One-stop-shop for Graphic Design, Video Editing & Online Promo

Multikraft Media is an enterprise, founded in 2010, chiefly triggered by an entrepreneurial drive. Initially, blogging and publishing of e-magazines were the main services rendered by the outfit. Also designed banners, art covers and fliers for several A-list showbiz personalities and entertainment website owners such as Tosyn Bucknor, Terry Tha Rapman, Timmynaija etc.

Today, Multikraft Media has evolved in to a one stop shop for creative graphic designs, video editing and an online platform for promotion of brands. Looking for a graphic designer, video editor and online publicist without a lofty price tag? Then hire us today. Our services are quite affordable. We also sell softwares and tutorials related to Multimedia jobs.

In addition, dear artistes, please be informed that from now till September 30th, 2014, if you allow Multikraftmedia design your artwork, you will also get free online promo on the numerous websites we are affiliated to.

We're always open for business 24/7. Let's work!

Warm Regards,

Ifeanyi Ibegbunam (Founder, Multikraftmedia)

Connect with us today:

Twitter: @Multikraftmedia

Instagram: @Multikraftmedia

WhatsApp/Tel: +2347036158705

The 10 Laws Of Success: An Independent Artist's Hip Hop Guide

So the following advice comes from those professionals—people like Ken Lewis (check the production credits of J. Cole’s, Kanye West and Jay-Z’s latest albums, and you’ll see his name). When rappers hope to get posted on various Hip Hop blogs and websites, these are ultimately the people they hope to impress and work with. So we put together this list based on Robert Greene’s The 48 Laws Of Power. It’s geared to getting your stuff online or just an overall balance of how to be successful as an independent artist trying to get signed.

This isn’t some guaranteed guide on how you’re gonna get on. But between industry veterans like J-Hatch, LEP Bogus Boys, DJ ill Will and Torae, there are over 100 combined years of experience in this roundtable. For what it’s worth, I used to manage an OfficeMax before getting involved with DX, Coast2Coast and i-Standard Producers. I had to make the decision between taking a pay cut and keeping the same job, or taking my unemployment and severance pay to leave and pursue my passion. So I can relate to any aspiring artist out there with a stack of burned CDs in pursuit of their dream. Taking the advice from the industry vets you hope to someday work with—along with some planning, hard work and some luck—is a start.

Law 1: Do Your Research

Eric Beasley: Co-Owner of The world’s largest MC Battle League, SMACK/ URL and one of the largest Hip Hop YouTube channels online www.youtube.com/Theurltv. Beasley has also worked as an artist and producer manager in addition to his time at Warner as an A&R.

“Making the transition from your mother’s basement to Madison Square Garden can be extremely difficult in this current climate of the music business. Most labels won’t take a chance on an artist—especially a rapper without any traction. When I say traction, I mean trackable data about you or your brand. This data can be in the form of BDS [Broadcast Data Systems] or Mediabase radio spins, a huge buzz on a mixtape (thousands of on-line downloads, independent sales, or write ups and praise from notable publications) presence on key websites and blogs, significant views on YouTube with a music video or blogs, touring, endorsement from established artists etc. Many ask how this can be achieved when the competition has more money, contacts, management, etc. Getting signed or becoming a huge independent artist takes a plan!”

Law 2: Use Resources & Strategize

Riggs Morales: VP of A&R and Artist Development at Atlantic Records. For more music education insight, visit www.Itsriggdup.com

“Drive: This is the trait is what will keep you moving forward as doubt sets in, as progress is made or as you reach those ‘stand-still’ moments when nothing is happening.

“Creativity: The ability to stand out from the rest starts here. Even if you find yourself in a place clogged by others pursuing the same thing you are (producing, singing, rapping), you should nurture the ability to create something that sets you apart from everyone and will help you stand out.

“Resources: Learn to work with less to get more. You can do just as much with a three people as you can with a 1,000, if it’s all you have to work with. Learning to work with bare essentials will push you to make the best with what you have.

“Strategize: Once you’ve built a cohesive system with what you have, then it’s important to utilize the little you have with a strategic approach. Make every small step count towards bigger steps.

“Vision: Have a clear (and realistic) outline of where you want to be and what you think will take to get there. Know that it will not happen overnight. It will take you time as you develop a rhythm through trial and error, which will ultimately trim the fat off your artistry and unveil the artist you were meant to be.

“Get A Job: You will make no money as you work on your craft, which can lead to a stressful state of mind and interfere with your creative rhythms. Get a job that allows you to pay bills and put food on your table until your ‘passionate hobby’ turns into ‘paying occupation.’”

Law 3: Create Quality Product

Ken Lewis: Multi-Platinum Producer for Kanye West, Jay-Z, Eminem, Drake, Usher, Danity Kane, Jeremih, 50 Cent. More info on Lewis and his online musical tutorial program is available viawww.AudioSchoolOnline.com.

“The number one thing young artists forget is that it’s really all about the music. If your song doesn’t instantly and strongly connect to people who don’t know you, you’re not going to make it very far. Don’t listen to your friends and relatives. They love you and want to see you win. Watch the reactions to your music from people you don’t know. Don’t tell me, ‘Well this rapper got signed and his songs suck.’ Really? Is that where you set the bar for yourself? If you want to get noticed, make or find hot beats, and write an undeniable hit. Then do it again, and again, and you'll get a deal. If it was easy, everybody would do it. It’s not easy, and it takes a ton of thankless, draining, work, coupled with tons of rejection and soul searching. But there are a few who will emerge every year to the top.” 

Law 4: Master The Art Of Multi-tasking

L.E.P. Bogus Boys: Blueprint/Infared/Interscope Recording Artists. Follow Count and Moonie via Twitter at @LEPBOGUSBOYS.

“What you got to understand is that whether you’re independent or signed, it all falls on you. So you have to have an immediate team that multitasks and know their roles. We only got a team of five including us, and we all make the mechanism work. When you sign, look for a label that understands your brand not just because they got a lot of money for you. You also gotta build your relationships and stay persistent. That’s how we got so far—because of our immediate outlets of people we can get to. It took a whole lot to build that so strong, but it worked. More than anything, you gotta have good product and challenge yourself to be great.”

Law 5: Value Your Independence

DJ ill Will: CEO of Tha Alumni Music Group & Manager for Kid Ink. Ill Will has worked with and broke some of the hottest artists in the game including Soulja Boy, Chris Brown, Tyga and more.

“No offense to the major labels, but stay Indie and get your paper up before you even consider a major label deal. Trust me, you won’t regret it! Putting yourself at the mercy of a major label is career suicide…unless you’re the rare few.

Law 6: Develop An Identity & A Team

Brian “Z” Zisook: VP/Editor-in-Chief of DJBooth.net

“There are no hard and fast rules or stone cold lock advice that works universally when given to an aspiring artist, who is looking to escape from the confines of their mother's basement and make it as a professional recording artist. There are, however, several steps that should be taken to ensure that you are giving yourself the best possible chance at future success. These steps include, but are certainly not limited to: finding a team of professionals who believe in you and your music, developing an identity as an artist and branding your stage name and music accordingly, and creating a product that will sell itself.”

Law 7: Be Humble, Realistic & Work Hard

Kyle “KP” Reilly: VP Idle Media Inc / DatPiff.com 

“For an artist to have a chance to make it out their mama’s basement and into a label’s boardroom, a lot of things need to happen, including a bit of luck. For the most part, what an artist needs more than anything is a good, realistic head on their shoulders. If your head isn’t right, you have an inflated perception of yourself or of the game, you wont make it very far. Be humble, be yourself and don’t follow everyone else’s or industry trends. Work harder and harder for yourself—not just to talk about how hard you’re working—results will speak for themselves. And lastly, do not spam or annoy those who you are attempting to sell yourself or distribute your music to.”

Law 8: Maintain A Physical Presence

J-Hatch: Co-CEO of I-Standard Producers. www.IstandardProducers.com

“These days, the general perception is that you need an online presence. Many aspiring artists then take to their social networks to send links out to people who in most cases consider that spamming. In reality it’s all about creating a balance—yes the Internet is important and influential. But networking, performing and building a fan base are all equally as important.”

Law 9: Become Business Savvy

Nick Hiersche: President of Coast2Coast Mixtapes & Coast2Coast Live. coast2coastmixtapes.com &coast2coastlive.com

“I think the number one misconception we get is they think others owe them because they made a song. Just because you made a song does not make it a venue’s responsibility to pay you all of a sudden. In order to get a paid booking, you must be able to sell tickets, alcohol or some other type of product for that venue or company. Music business is a business, and you must invest in yourself and your business until revenue starts being generated. If you are not getting paid to perform or feature on tracks, then you have not invested enough in yourself, period. The indie route is a smart route and can be done on a small budget, but it is still a budget. Until you realize this and make smart investments into your ‘music business,’ then it is a hobby, not a business.

The converse of that is that if you want a ‘major record deal,’ you must invest hundreds of thousands of dollars into your ‘music business.’ It takes that much investment for large returns to come in, which is the only thing that interests labels. So both ways cost time, money and of course effort and talent. But in today’s market you don’t really need the major label. You can generate a sufficient income by investing in your indie ‘music business’ until the revenue starts coming. And then you can just collect from the loyal fans you gained from investing!”

Law 10: Maintain Consistency

Torae: Emcee, Founder of Internal Affairs Entertainment, A&R for Soulspazm Records, co-host of Siriux XM’s “Rap Is Outta Control.” www.facebook.com/itstorae - Twitter & Instagram @Torae

“I think the most important thing in today’s market is to be visible. It doesn’t matter if you make the best music in the world if no one hears it or no one knows. So you have to be visible—seen and heard. Do a lot of shows, even if they’re free shows…even if only your family is there. Perform your music. Master it, get it air tight and record it. YouTube has birthed a number of sensations, so definitely have it uploaded and linkable there. You also have to get used to giving away music for free. There is so much competition now, in order for people to know your music, you’re going to have to give some away to build an audience and fan base. Social networking is very important as well. Make sure you’re active on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc. The more people are into you and what you’re doing, the more they'll care about the music, and the more they’ll spread the word.

“I did a docu-series last year called ‘Off The Record.’ I think all new and aspiring artists should check it out to get some insight on the ups and downs of the music business. It was filmed during the recording and release of my album For The Record. I did it so that I could shed some light on what it takes on the daily basis to grind out a career in music.”

Written by Michael Trampe is a Social Media & Marketing guru from Philadelphia, PA. He owns MAAD Management, MikeTrampeTV.com & also works with Coast2CoastLive and I-Standard Producers. Prior to joining HipHopDX in 2007, Trampe has been a DJ, owned and operated a recording studio, managed producers and artists & worked promotions for TDE (Top Dawg Entertainment). You can follow him on twitter @MikeTrampeTV, Facebook and YouTube.

SOURCE HIPHOPDX

Follow @thisisFecko

Teck-Zilla - 'Son of Sade: An Ode'

With a career that spans nearly 30 years, Sade has earned her spot in the soul hall of fame. Sure, many artists in the past have remixed and sampled her work, but none of those projects are as ambitious as Son of Sade: An Ode FreEP. Brought to you by by the Montreal-based beatsmith, Teck-Zilla, this near 20 minute jam blends the work of the singer with Teck's Boom bap production savvy. What's interesting to note is that like Sade, Teck was born in Nigeria and spent time living in London, so it's no surprise that both of these artists' sounds can pair so well together. 'Son of Sade: An Ode' is now available for free download, so press play today.. you're gonna wanna keep this 'by your side.'

STUDIO GRINDING | Dope Unit Volume Two

Y'all remember Dope Unit mixtape volume one? Yeah, I did an impromptu freestyle skit for the compilation because I was notified late about getting a spot on the project. Well, no more improvisation - I have been working in the studio with the Underground Music NG team for a couple of weeks now.

Recorded two hiphop tracks for a sequel to the compilation album (Dope Unit Volume Two). One is an uptempo tune (Something like Meek Mill's 'I'ma Boss'), and I brought my homie Tha Rapman on board. The song called 'Apprentice 2.0' also feature various talented artistes such as Tupengo, Toni Code, K-Zed.

If you've listened to Lupe Fiasco's 'Old School Love' then you should know what to expect on the second track. Toni Code and I teamed up on a soulful hiphop beat and eventually made an inspirational song. Surprisingly I sang on the hook. Utilizing my baritone voice alot these days. One of the tracks I featured on (Apprentice 2.0) will be released online soon, accompanied by a viral music video. Watch this space.

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FASHION | Kemzy Trane Clothing Styles Wizkid

Few weeks ago, Wizkid shot a video for a single titled 'Show Me The Money' taken off his forthcoming album. My younger brother, Kenechi Ibegbunam of Kemzytrane, styled Star Boy. It was major! I asked him about the whole experience of dealing with an A-list Nigerian act.

This was what he had to say below:

 'At first it was like a dream. I actually got a call from his road manager named Babajide, and he requested for some African printed apparels fondly called Danshiki. He claimed he got my contact via Google. I couldn't believe when he said the clothes were needed to style Wizkid, until I got to the set of his video shoot in 'Small London' somewhere in Shitta. And I was immediately directed to his family house where he used his Porsche Cayana as his temporary dressing room. After the transaction was done, I met some his entourage such as Piper, Legedury Beats, Dr Frabz, Shadee Boi and Ragga Remi.'

FASHION | Fecko Reps for ECHO Clothing

"Fecko! What is it that you can't do?' I recall someone once asked me that question. I guess the person noticed that I love multitasking. God is my inspiration. My life revolves around music, writing, graphic design, multimedia, blogging, acting, agriculture and most recently, modelling. Yes, modelling! (Even without the six packs). Last month I modeled for ECHO clothing owned by my friend Lai aka Mister X.I. The experience was fun. Stylists and fashion designers out there looking for a model, holla at your boy!

We had a photo shoot somewhere on the streets of Lagos. One particular attribute that differentiate Lagosians from the rest of the world, would be the fact that we love feeding our eyes alot. I am guilty of this too. Brawls, bus conductors and passengers arguing over 10 naira change, mentally deranged individuals dancing azonto to no music in traffic and every other form of awkward public display or spectacle excite most people residing in the Centre of Excellence. Lagosians sabi look! (Laughs). Well, we had their attention while the outdoor photo shoot was in progress, but for some reason I wasn't shy. Wait a minute, am I a shy person? Perhaps. However, the more neck deep I get into an activity, the bolder I become.

It was nice meeting a fellow rapper turned model just like myself. Gamie is into Gospel hiphop and has worked with the likes of Rooftop MCs and Simi. By the way, some of the female models on set were gorgeous. I didn't interact much with them though. Well, except for one chic that was pretty and down to earth whom I did admire. We laughed alot when we were supposed to pose for a couple-like shot. Could that be love? (Laughs). At this point, I think I should hush and allow y'all check out the pics below. Enjoy! 

 

 

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MUSIC | Toni code – Extraordinary

Fast rising rapper toni code boils up yet another classic as he drops deep and highly intricate bars on this new track off his upcoming “OPUS” Mixtape titled ‘EXTRAORINARY’. This is a track of different technique and truly unique flow, he teams up with producer STOBeats who mixed and mastered this new track. Its a must have and must listen as this rapper demonstrates why his truly extraordinary flow deserves a top spot in naija list of the dope emcees.

DOWNLOAD  HERE

Mentoring Teens - The Positive and Negative Effects of the Social Media

It's humbling to mentor teens. I was made a guest judge in my church a few Sundays ago, and it was nice watching young champs participate in a debate which was centred on the positive and negative effects of the social media.

Since becoming self-determined is a life-long process, you can be a co-learner as you help young people develop self-determination skills. I must say, these teenagers taught me alot too.

Briefly, I and my co-judge robbed minds and got acquainted. It wasn't rocket science before I could tell he was a medical practitioner due to some of the terminologies he used during our conversation. I found some of his contributions related to the topic of the day very enlightening.

Does the negative effect of the social media outweigh the benefits? Well, it was the duty of the speakers to answer that question by sharing as many reasonable points as possible. My kid sister, Ijeoma Ibegbunam, was a chief speaker in her team and she opposed the notion that 'Social media does more harm than good in the life of teenagers.' 'It has helped teenagers to be computer literates; helping them to adapt and learn fast.' - That was one of the points she raised, and I couldn't agree more. Totally right!

However, the negative effects of the social media arise when such online platform is abused. You will agree with me that the most common demerit is the inevitable access to pornographic materials. And the multiplier effect of this include masturbation, absent mindedness in class, depression, premarital sex and so on. Parental control is therefore advised for this to be curbed. Parents should endeavor to monitor their children whenever they are using the internet so long as the kids aren't 18 yet.

I later had a group discussion with these promising teenagers before the debate commenced. I made them realize that the topic of discussion was key to their well-being and morals as children of God. It wasn't about which team won, but about the lessons they learnt in the course of the program. I am pleading to every teenager out there to embrace the numerous benefits of the social media by engaging in positive and life-changing activities online. We the youths are the leaders of today, don't wait for tomorrow. Ideas rule the world. Shalom.

MUSIC | Na Devu 'Cos Am - Pherowshuz

Phero my man. This dope song has been chilling in his hard drive for a good minute. Finally happy to see 'Na Devu Cos Am' finally released. If you still don't believe in Phero, then you don't know good music.

DOWNLOAD  HERE

MUSIC | Holstar Ft Redwingz - Umunti Ni Grind Yakwe

"Umuntu Ni Grind Yakwe” is the Ultimate Hustler’s Anthem! Brought to you by Slam Dunk Records Lyricist; ‘Holstar’ Featuring Kasama’s Dopest Rap Duo ‘Redwingz.’ This Shom-C Produced Gem has a gritty feel but is uplifting at the same time. Umuntu Ni Grind Yakwe is a Bemba Term mixed with English. Umuntu meaning Person, to Grind is when an individual pushes himself/herself to attain a goal, Yakwe is to each his own – To sum it up – To Each Person His/Her Own Work.

DOWNLOAD  HERE 

Zone Fam - Ntete and Album Title Announcement

Zone Fam present their latest single “Ntete” Produced by long time collaborator Dida Steez. A ‘Ntete’ is a Grasshopper in Zambian dialect – Nyanja. They decided to take it to their roots on this song and created an infectious Hip Hop tune that will get people in a Jovial Mood!

Zone Fam would also like to Officially announce the title of their second album that will aptly be titled “Bar Code”- Most Hip Hop Fans will immediately relate to this title but for those that are less Hip Hop inclined – Bar Code is the Unique Rap Style and Language that Zone Fam present as a collective; Bars are lines therefore the Code is the format in which it is displayed.

The album will be released under the Taurus Musik Label and the release date shall be announced soon.

DOWNLOAD HERE

ALBUM | Raiza Biza - The Imperfectionist

The Imperfectionist is Raiza Biza's brand new album which was Recorded, Mixed & Mastered at Red Bull Studios Auckland by Ben Lawson. This Rwandan New Zealand MC exudes a work ethic that I respect. He's got a spot on my forthcoming EP by the way.

GET IT HERE

LYRICS | Fecko - Real Talk [Produced by Teck-Zilla]

Real Talk is a song I released a while back, which was produced by Teck-Zilla. Well, I just thought I'd share the lyrics to the song with my real audience. Check 'em out below!

Intro: Let's get 'em!

Verse One
Turn on the mic like Jordan at a strip club/This' not a rap song y'all, man am smashing walls, listen up this is REAL TALK/Been around for 8 years, paid my dues, sometimes I wanna ask for a refund/Since this rap shit ain't paying guy I might just do pop/what's good pop?/Sorry I never did gospel tracks, gats to chop/Going secular doesn't mean God ain't with me I won't flop/Modenine plans going commercial/Am still here repping the art? no martial/"Feck let it go!" Hell no! Look I'ma go with the flow, I shall.../Find a way to strike a balance/Feels good to do me while I still please my audience/Money, is what I need to push my shit around the world/Getting lil love in Naija, overseas am getting more/Can't I do what is right in a wrong industry?/By now shouldn't one of these big brands have endorsed me?/Oh well, friends won't support you until strangers celebrate you/Notwithstanding mo le nu bi kettle from lere to ketu/Shout out to my believers in Lusaka and Nairobi/Am not on Channel O yet but Africa knows me/Back in the days making music was a hobby/Now it's business if the money ain't complete please don't call me.

Sampled chorus.

Verse two.
You're feeling me, ain't you?/"Feck you're the truth" Thank you!/Am in my own lane unlike these band wagon kats, hey queue/Form a line, y'all can't rap to save your lives/Confused admirers one advice in three words, Get A Life!/Due to school it seems I've been slowing down on the music/Placing my priorities right, in the long run you'll see/That there's no rush to greatness, no time for bullshit/Ain't no animal husbandry in this game, you dig stupid?/Huh! Back in the days making music was a hobby/Now it's business if the money ain't complete please don't call me/I say, before before making music was a hobby/Now it's business if the money no complete biko don't call me.

Repeat sampled chorus.

Outro
It's your boy...
Fuck it, it's your man Fecko the emcee/Africa wuddup?/Shout out to all my fans man/The movement is still moving!

UNCENSORED CHITCHAT | 'Cater to the New Collection of Listeners or Die Broke' - Cyrus Tha Virus

Some time in February I had a convo with controversial Nigerian rapper, Cyrus tha Virus, and in the course of our conversation the King of the South gave me props and also shared his opinion as touching the current state of Global Hiphop and why he frowns at the school of thought in which most 'Black Hiphop Heads' belong to. I only share what's real, and I believe this is. Mind you, it's not an interview. Just an uncensored chitchat. Read on below.

CYRUS THA VIRUS
Fecko, you're tooooooo intelligent for ordinary spit-fire bars. You're a conscious MC and a fantastic one. This year, I intend to make a change with my music. Topics that touch lives and all. This is the reason why Macklemore won the grammies over Kendrick Lamar. People say its cuz he's white. I disagree. For an ALBUM, The Heist was a way better ensemble than Good kid Maad City. K-dot is a spit fire MC. But Mackle talked about deep issues. Mackle played to the crowd. Homosexuality and all. His 1st single "pop some tags" (or sumtin like dat) can best half of K.dots album. Mackle taught the world to be proud of looking fly in 7 dollar FAKE mink coats. And we all know 2/3 of the world is poor. Mackle is a movement. And he's an INDEPENDENT artiste, not signed to no one. That means his hustle was 10times harder than K.dot. K.dot had Dr. Dre and all. Mackle had mackle and his fat overweight singing friend. That's the GRIND!

THIS IS FECKO
And he also had the 'White community.'

CYRUS THA VIRUS
Yup...K.dot had the white community too oh. You forgot Imagine Dragons featured him? MGk did. Robin Thicke did. Most white people featured K.dot. Mackle didn't have ONE feature last year.

THIS IS FECKO
Most black hip hop heads didn't really dig Mackle I guess. 'Can't Hold Us' is a jam though. Couldn't help but do my own cover of the song.

CYRUS THA VIRUS
Black hiphop heads are sadists. They should go and boil ten drums of oil beans. Rap has changed, abeg. We allowed white A&R's dictate the shape of Rap. 2chainz and co are given fat checks to propagate redundant music. Now we wanna complain? Lemme tell you something; the blacks have our own Macklemore. We don't celebrate him. He's been indie for over 15 years. His name is Tech9ne. Tech9ne made 7.5million dollars last year. He has dropped his 13th album. Owns the Label "strange Music" that K.dot was on before they let him join Dre. Your biggest black MCs don't wanna feature Tech9ne because Tech9ne go expose them. Tech9ne/strange music has the best Recording studio fully digital in the whole of U.S.A. He goes on idie tours and all. Racked in 7.5million dollars. Do you see any black talking about him? They Jumped to Eminem's cock. And Eminem put out a sub-par album. Fuck the black hiphop heads. They should die begging for food stamps! I wanna make universal Rap. Rap that deals with real life issues. But doesn't have to be boring to appease the broke ass hiphop "gods". Imma bring Drake hooks on conscious shiiit. That's the way forward.

Diary of a College Kid: Anticipating Resumption

The last time I wrote something related to this topic was during my Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme. Finished the program last month and ever since then I have been looking forward to resume the new academic session. The anticipation would have been over assuming the ongoing strike by ASUP was called off or atleast suspended. Although news filtering in gives me a glimmer of hope that I will be back in school soon and would probably commence receiving lectures latest by May. I just pray ASUP and the Federal Government ressolve their differences before the month ends. They say when two elephants fight, the grass suffers. Abi no be so? By the way, as the current acting President of the Association of Agricultural Technology Students, Yabatech, I am also bracing myself for the tasks ahead. God is my strength.

Meanwhile, I have had other official reasons to visit my school recently, despite the ongoing strike. It has to do with submitting a couple of documents and stuff like that. These appointments seem to have caused I and most of my course mates that I haven't seen in a while to link up. So it's always like a family reunion whenever we converge inside the school premises. Handshakes and hugs; 'Oh My God' and 'Missed You' - these gestures and phrases are inevitably expressed by my colleagues during the 'reunion'. Well, I only do gestures. The phrases are feminine in a way. Uncool for guys!

Something dawned on me the previous time I was in school. I noticed the premises of Yaba College of Technology is filled with all kinds of statue. Art in its physical form. It shows how really creative my fellow students are. Belonging to the Faculty of Technology doesn't deprive me the privilege of being an art enthusiast. I love paintings and sculpture. In fact, my ex is a Fine Artist. Literally! She pays attention to details. I guess it's an artistic attribute, if you know what I mean. End of story.

I took some snapshots while standing in front of a statue that reminds me of Greek's Korous/Apollo. I'd say a timid version of that though. Check out pics below.

OPINION | Insecurity and Political Trypanosomiasis Now Thrive in Nigeria.

It's way past midnight, and I just woke up to gunshots. Sporadic shooting in my neighborhood has suddenly become a frequent phenomenon. Mushin is where I reside and is well known as one of the most notorious places in Lagos. Well, truth is, sometimes it's filled with noise and chaos. However, looking at the big picture; no where is 50% safe in my country anymore. Insurgency seems to be on the rise in Nigeria. Tired of been greeted with news headlines that read 'Bomb blast in Abuja, 72 people feared dead' or 'Fulani herdsmen clash with farmers' and so on.

Security is paramount in any country that attract foreign investors regularly. The country's economy suffers where this is lacking. Imagine, close to 200 young female students were abducted by gun men in the Northern part of Nigeria last week. Frankly speaking, any of these girls could have been our sisters or even daughters. According to news bulletins flying around, it was recently reported that 14 more girls have escaped from the Boko Haram abductors. I wonder how true that update is. Is the media even reliable these days? Oh well, crazy times! Indeed there is an ongoing war in Northern Nigeria. And if the federal government doesn't declare a war on terrorism as soon as possible, this conflict may spread to other parts of the country, especially here in the South.

Most people in the South West still joke about terrorism, perhaps, because we haven't seen a BRT bus boarded by school children and civil servants explode in broad day light. I pray that doesn't happen. Terrorism is not amusing in any way. I get vexed when I see some abnormal people making a joke out of the whole situation on social media platforms. That's absolutely wrong. Any one involved in such absurd manner of behavior is as unserious as sleeping delegates at the national conference where serious issues are meant to be discussed.

Forget the outbreak of Ebola virus; one deadly disease eating deep into the fabrics of our government is Political Trypanosomiasis. This is a phrase I coined in the process of writing a new song where I addressed several issues affecting my dear country. Why would our leaders be sleeping when there is fire on the mountain? It's really illogical. I can't phantom it. He who thinks he is leading and has no one following him is only taking a walk. We the citizens of Nigeria won't cease to be vocal. Enough is enough!

A while back, Boko Haram leader, Shekau, dared security agencies and claimed responsibility for Abuja Nyanya park bombing. This man boldly told the Nigerian public about his whereabout by releasing a video online. By the way, this method of making a statement adopted by terrorists worldwide is rather cliché and irrelevant. Anyway, if he is actually in Abuja, then flushing him out with his squad of brainwashed rebels shouldn't be rocket science. The Federal Capital Territory is a concrete jungle and not like the Amazon forest. Who am I to tell the Nigerian Army how to do their job? Only Nigeria can save Nigeria. There was a country, but I don't wish for another civil war before we find peace. May God help us!