Ever since music has begun being distributed widely, there have been layers added on top to help guide listeners and label the intentions of the artist; things like titles, or spoken word. Album art undeniably has one of the most inseparable relationships between any two art mediums. While not every album cover has “meaning,” (and…
The Low End Theory dropped on September 24, 1991, and has aged better than most hip hop albums from that era. It is the definitive “hip hop classic”. Loud is looking back at some of the most influential hip hop albums with significant anniversaries in 2021. The alternative hip hop music genre wouldn’t become what…
Sampling is one of the most trademark techniques used in hip-hop production since it’s beginnings, and it’s well-known. While this has garnered some shade from purist music critics, any open-minded fan of rap will tell you that it’s part of what makes hip-hop such a unique and evocative genre. Blending new and old material has…
Finally, the Cypress Hill Original Graphic Novel is available from Z2 Comics, and it’s 120 pages long. The latest project marks the 30th anniversary of the legendary hip hop group’s self-titled debut album from 1991. The album featured bangers such as “How I Could Just Kill A Man,” “Ultraviolet Dreams,” “Stoned Is The Way of…
Not all years in hip-hop history are created equal. Some years are full of lackluster projects and tame headlines. Some are full of blockbuster albums and cultural changes. If you want an example of this, look no further than 1996. The first thing anyone notes about this year is the fateful death of Tupac, and…
The death of Tupac Shakur still haunts many. 25 years later, there are still more questions than answers. This September 2021, we mark 25 years since Tupac Amaru Shakur’s murder in Las Vegas. The iconic rapper, cultural critic, poet, and actor was only 25 when he was shot four times — once in the thigh,…
Mad! Exactly how Ice Cube’s Death Certificate made me feel when it was released in 1991. Looking back, I was filled with teenage angst, and wildin’ out every time I heard hardcore hip hop got me through a lot of tough days. I played it on my boom box as a suburbanite as evidence that…
Looking for the latest Dave season 2 review? Outrageous and thought-provoking, yet heartfelt and genuine. That’s how I’d describe the latest FXX comedy show about a white rapper, Lil Dicky, trying to succeed in the music industry. After binge-watching season 1 of Dave, I had high hopes for season 2. However, I did have some…
If there’s one thing that has defined Jadakiss throughout his career, it’s the skill and passion he brings whenever it’s time to put on a show. Tuesday this week was the night he got to remind us of all of that. The New York rapper who made his name with hip hop group The Lox…
In the music industry, few producers can say they hold the same influence and genre-spanning reputation that Rick Rubin does. While his resume includes credits on many high-profile stars in the mainstream, taking a deep dive into his career presents a compelling picture for a man who shifted pillars of hip hop and rock alike.…
