Hyphen Drawn

SPIDEYVILLE UNLIMITED

"Rapper. Writer. Director. Visionary. Devourer Of Steak."

The Day The Music Died (R.I.P. Meuwl)
Jordan and Kobe
[info]bhyphen
My friend Justin's brother wrote this.

This is my brother's tribute to Meuwl...



When I was still in high school (maybe 16 years old), I was sitting around on a boring summer day with some friends. I don’t remember exactly who was there, but I am sure at least Adam Searls and Tim Dover were there. We were bored and probably doing something stupid and listening to music in Searls’ basement. Something about the music made me ask who it was that was rapping. Searls told me that it was this guy named Sam who lived down the street and I couldn’t help but think “there is no way that this guy is from West Virginia, let alone South Charleston” He told me he called himself Meuwl. (Country Meuwl the first time I heard about him.)

There was something about the way it sounded, even though it was a rough recording, there was still this unexplainable star quality to the beat and the lyrics, a drawing power. I heard one song, and I was hooked. Time passed, as time has been known to do, and the legend of Meuwl grew (At least in my head it did). My head was filled with stories of he did this or he said that and I had heard so many of his demos and rough CDs without ever meeting him that I believed he surely only existed in myth. Eventually, I became good friends with John, Meuwl’s younger brother. Through John, I eventually met Meuwl.

You know how some people say, “The man is never a good as myth,” or something like that. Well, in this case those people are wrong. None of the stories I heard did him justice. From the instant I met him, I liked him. Charismatic and funny don’t even begin to describe Meuwl’s personality. It was like he was so full of life he radiated it and by just being around him some of that life would escape into you. These first few times I met him were in passing. Crashing at his house when I went to Morgantown with John, once. Passing him in the kitchen of his mom’s house in South Charleston. Random encounters, that only helped to build the legend in my head.

Over the years, Meuwl’s name, to me, became synonymous with the West Virginia music scene. If a friend came to visit or I met a new person, they had to go to a Meuwl and B-Rude show. If I knew someone appreciated good music, then they had to hear the Rabble Rousers. There simply wasn’t anything like them around, and definitely nobody as talented. The legend in my head kept expanding. He became synonymous with music.

It wasn’t until years later that I actually became friends with Meuwl. I don’t know why, but I was surprised to discover how much depth he had. One of the only friends I have had that would wax philosophy or some abstract point of life with a beer in his hand. He wasn’t above the inane, as one might think, but that is part of what made him so fun to be around (Robot butt love springs to mind, if you don’t get it don’t worry it isn’t as bad as it sounds). While he might have had a little attention span at some points, when Meuwl talked to a person he made them feel like they were the only person in the room. He was a personality that couldn’t be denied, and it was impossible not to love him. His legend growing evermore. Even after knowing him for a few years, I still had this childlike hero-image of him floating around in my head.

Meuwl died, on Thursday, November 5th, 2009. When I was told, I remember thinking to myself, “This can’t be true. This has to be a joke or something.” The shock of his death, left me blank, stunned. The strangest thing was that the only thing I could think of was a line from the old Don McLean song “American Pie.” I thought, “This is the day the music died.” I didn’t think it was possible. He had seemed invincible to me. Charleston suddenly seemed like a very bitter and silent city. But it was true. While I am still having trouble believing he is gone, a part of me realizes that while the man might be gone, his legend will continue.

Those of us still here will never forget him. He was one of the most talented people I have ever met, and the world surely lost one of its stars yesterday, leaving the sky just a little more barren. But we can always remember what he did while he was here. We can remember how he made us smile, or laugh or how he got groups of metal heads to bounce to some rap. We can always carry the song of his life in our hearts. A person like Meuwl can never truly be gone, because he left such an impact on so many people. Our only jobs now are to learn to live again, and to strive to be as happy as he would want us to be.

Hyphen Vlog #4A, #4B, & #5: Behind The Music: The Mind's Mixtape volume Three
Jedi Dwight
[info]bhyphen



I decided to start another Behind The Music entry, except with video instead of all the typing this time. I'll be posting them as I produce them.

Music: "Auto-Tune That" & "Don't Trust Me (Death Before Dishonor Remix)"
J.D. and Cox
[info]bhyphen
The first one is a collaboration I did for my homie Profit Money's album where we abuse auto-tune to the fullest. The second one is another one of those remixes I keep doing, this time of 3OH!3's hit single "Don't Trust Me".

</div></div>
Auto-Tune That (Feat. B Hyphen) - Profit Money</div>
</div></div>
Dont Trust Me (Death Before Dishonor Remix) (Feat. B Hyphen) - 3OH!3</div>



Victory Jumpoff Radio – Show #3: Roc-A-Fella Edition Volume 1
Ghostbusters
[info]bhyphen


Finally, Victory Jumpoff Radio has come back to the internets! This time I dedicate a whole episode to the Roc-A-Fella Records Dynasty (from 1998 to 2005) minus any songs that were contained on a Jay-Z album! Take a trip down memory lane as I unearth some of the Roc's best work and not necessarily the singles. This is only Volume 1, so expect future installments and your feedback will be greatly appreciated. Here's to the Roc!

Young Gunz - $$$ Girlz (Feat. Juelz Santana)
Memphis Bleek - My Mind Right (Feat. Ja Rule)
Beanie Sigel - Playa (Feat. Amil & Jay-Z)
Kanye West - Keep The Receipt (Feat. Dirt McGirt)
Freeway - Full Effect (Feat. Young Gunz)
*****
Memphis Bleek - Murda Murda (Feat. Jay-Z & Beanie Sigel)
Diplomats - I'm Ready
Young Gunz - Grown Man (Remix) (Feat. Kanye West & John Legend)
Kanye West - Improvise
*****
Beanie Sigel - Nothing Like It
Peedi Crakk -One For Peedi (Feat. Freeway, Young Chris & Beanie Sigel)
Jay-Z - Crew Love (Feat. Memphis Bleek & Beanie Sigel)
*****
Cam'ron - Come Home With Me (Feat. Juelz Santana & Jim Jones)
Dame Dash - Champions (Feat. Kanye West, Young Chris, Beanie Sigel, Cam'ron & Twista)
Cam'ron - Live My Life (Leave Me Alone)
Julez Santana - Dipset (Santana's Town) (Feat. Cam'ron)
*****
Young Gunz - Tough Luv (Feat. Denim & Casha)
Freeway - All My Life (Feat. Nate Dogg)
Amil - 4 Da Fam (Feat. Memphis Bleek, Beanie Sigel & Jay-Z)
State Property - When You Hear That (Feat. Dirt McGirt)
*****
Kanye West - Out The Game (Feat. Consequence & John Legend)
Kanye West - School Spirit
Cam'ron - Get 'Em Girls
Freeway - Hear The Song
*****
Cam'ron - The ROC (Just Fire) (Feat. Memphis Bleek & Beanie Sigel)


Victory Jumpoff Radio - Show #3: Roc-A-Fella Edition Volume 1

Soundvizion TV: Episode From October 20, 2009
Stan Lee
[info]bhyphen

Features an interview with Roc Nation artist J. Cole. Again we are joined by Miss CJ and a good thing too as our panel was coming up short this week. Check out previous episodes at http://www.livestream.com/soundviziontv or catch us live every Tuesday night at 7 PM at that same link.

Soundvizion TV: Episode From October 13, 2009
Raphael
[info]bhyphen

Features interviews with Shon Thrilla and Bobby Stamps. Special guest panelist CJ, Check out previous episodes at http://www.livestream.com/soundviziontv or catch us live every Tuesday night at 7 PM at that same link.

I Was on Shade 45's The Morning After With Angela Yee
Robin
[info]bhyphen
I few months ago, I submitted music for a segment on Angela Yee's morning show called Don't Quit Your Day Job. Angela's show is broadcast by Sirius Satellite Radio's Shade 45. I heard back a few weeks ago and they told me I would be on at 10 AM this morning.

Call comes in, get put on hold for about 15 minutes, talk to Angela (who's as nice as she sounds on the radio), then she plays "Wait N See (Magic)". The beat gets mad props since it's a Best Kept Secret beat and technically an unfinished Wale song and the callers don't down my lyrics too much. They just suggested I go harder on the beat (guess my voice is too light).

The next song was going to be "No Sleep Till Tucson". Now when I sent the original email I included these two songs. But I was asked for two more songs when I was contacted and I purposely left out "No Sleep...". They used the original email. lol. I knew it was going to be bad. Here's my rundown from Twitter:







Start from the last picture and scroll up and it will make sense. lol.. But I didn't do too bad even with the bad song selection. Hopefully there was some people out there who actually did like the songs. And with a bit of luck, this wan't be my last time on Shade 45.

Here's my post over on TeamYee.tv. Hopefully I'll see some comments.


Fantasy Basketball
Raphael
[info]bhyphen
I'm starting a fantasy basketball league. I don't know who may be interested but I figured I throw this out there. Just let me know your email and I can invite you.

Music: B Hyphen - J's And Nikes
Me Myself and I
[info]bhyphen
</div>
I recorded this in late 2006 when I couldn't decide what project I wanted to work on next. While "J's And Nikes" ultimately didn't make the cut for The Mind's Mixtape volume Three, it's still one of my favorite songs. I might have to break it out and perform a verse next time I have a show. This is actually the second version, recorded on my good mic, but I was a little tipsy and I think it shows at points. But it's still a winner in my book. This song was originally by Fat Joe under the name "Safe 2 Say (The Incredible)". Produced by Just Blaze if you want to check that out.

I also just got a haircut. Why not?

Download "J's And Nikes".


Soundvizion TV: Episode From September 29, 2009
Lego Skywalker and Vader
[info]bhyphen

Soundvizion TV is a new live webcast I'm a part of every Tuesday at 7 pm. The panel features myself, Johnathan McCumber, Angel Cannon, Stephanie Hill, Leighann Sainato, DJ Strizy, and is moderated by DJ Monstalung. I suppose you could call us a variety show with the major focus being on music. You can catch the show at http://www.livestream.com/soundviziontv and I'll be posting the episodes as we complete them. I'm also looking into more live streaming possibilities in the future so hopefully you'll see me dabbling in this a bit more.

Thanks For The Publicity Daily Anthenaeum!
J.D. and Cox
[info]bhyphen
So there was an article on 6 for his album release party in WVU's school paper The Daily Anthenaum. Good article. But...there was something wrong with the picture.

6’6 240 to host CD release party at 123

By Marc Basham

Published: Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Updated: Tuesday, September 8, 2009

6-6 240

 

Local rapper 6’6 240 will unveil his latest CD titled “Hard Work and Dedication” at a release party Sept. 23. The party will be at 123 Pleasant Street, and 6’6 240 will perform with A Breezy. 6’6 240 is perhaps most well-known for this annual “Gold and the Blue” songs, which are about the WVU football team and have updated lyrics to match the current team roster.

One of the more recognizable names in the Morgantown music scene is hosting a party to celebrate the release of his new album, and everybody is invited to join the festivities.

Rapper 6’6 240, the man behind the unofficial anthem of West Virginia University football, "Gold and the Blue," has a new album titled "Hard Work and Dedication," scheduled for release Sept. 23.

To celebrate the new release, 6’6 240 and 123 Pleasant Street are hosting a release party Thursday night to debut songs from the album and hear some new music from the rapper and other acts.

According to 6’6 240, the new album was a tireless effort but well worth it for his loyal fans in the area.

"There was a lot of hard work and dedication put into this new album, hence the name," 6’6 240 said. "I made a conscientious effort on this album to make music for my family and the many people who have supported me throughout the years."

The performer also believes that staying close to home on this new album brought out the best in his music.

"It seems like I’ve been trying to take over the world since 2000, but my main support has always remained local," 6’6 240 said. "This album, and all of the dedication I put into it, is for my fans and supporters in West Virginia."

6’6 240 has become most recognizable from his WVU football anthem "Gold and the Blue," a song that he says has evolved over the years.

"Every year, I try to make ‘Gold and the Blue’ better, and this year, I think is one of the best," 6’6 240 said. "Up until last year, we had Pat (White), Steve (Slaton) and Coach (Rich) Rod, but now WVU football is moving into a new era with Coach Stew and Jarrett (Brown) at the helm. I wanted this year’s version to also reflect that evolution into a new era."

With the release party, 6’6 240 is also trying something new – performing with a live band.

"I have been working with my band for about a month and a half," 6’6 240 said. "This event is going to be a great way to give back to my fans and showcase some of my new music. We have several other acts performing, too, so it’s going to be a good time."

6’6 240’s release party featuring A Breezy is set for Thursday night at 123 Pleasant Street. There is a $5 cover at the door.

To hear samples of 6’6 240’s new album and the 2010 version of "Gold and the Blue," visit his Web site www.myspace.com/mrdubvee.

I have not been mistaken for 6'6...yet. lol.


Pictures From 123 Pleasant Street September 10th 2009
Hyphen Drawn
[info]bhyphen


I opened at 123 Pleasant Street with DJ Strizy the other night. It was the album release party for 6's new album Hard Work & Dedication. I got really good feedback from a lot of people and a few even said it was my best show ever. The only reason I had to start the show was because E likes the energy I bring to the table but in the near future, I'll definitely be headlining.

http://bit.ly/3p5JTR


This Caught Me Off Guard
Year One Batman
[info]bhyphen


I laughed pretty hard at that one. The Knight Life as definitely found its way into my Google Reader every morning thanks to [info]popfiend.

And I'm still alive. I just suck at this whole blog thing any more. I have a show this Thursday at 123 Pleasant Street. The show is for 6'6 240's new album Hard Work & Dedication. DJ Strizy and I will be trying our damnedest to tear it down.

New music is on its way I promise, I'm working on three different projects right now, but hopefully I'll be able to wrap all of those up in the coming months.

I'm still keeping this blog and I hope to post more frequently on it since I'm still an avid reader of my f-list entries every day. If you need to get ahold of me, the easiest way is thru twitter, facebook, or just email me at bhyphen@gmail.com.

I'll be around tho! I see you Fromme! lol.


Relaxer Sucks
Spider-Sense!
[info]bhyphen

I say that cause watching this trailer immediately brought out memories of having an afro in high school when I was getting it braided all the time and then deciding to relax my hair. My dad had to do it.

He burnt my scalp.

The afro went shortly after that. Had a mean ass scab on my head for months too. This trailer looks funny tho.


Holocaust Museum Shooting
Lego Skywalker and Vader
[info]bhyphen
So as I got older, going to the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C. was something I always wanted to do when I could fully appreciate it. On May 30th, I actually went. Angel and I spent at least three hours looking over everything and it was definitely one of the most humbling experiences of my life. I'd like to go back again and hopefully when I'm done next time I won't be so depressed.

11 days later at the same museum, a security guard was shot and killed when an anti-Semetic 88-year-old man opened fire just inside the Museum's doors. I heard this in passing at the time and thought it crazy that the same place I had learned so much history at had become the last stand for guard Stephen T. Johns.

I was just looking thru a friend's facebook pictures since I haven't went to bed yet and saw a picture of one of the signs outside stating "Think About What You Saw" and remembered the events of June 10th. I think in fairness to how much the Museum affected me that day and to Mr. Johns, it's only right that I post this news article recounting the events of that day. I can't sit here and be upset about Michael Jackson and not remember this man who I may have passed numerous times during my visit. May he rest in peace and may his family find some peace as well in his bravery.

Story Here.

Victory Jumpoff Radio – Show #2: DJ Strizy’s Michael Jackson Tribute Mix
Jordan and Kobe
[info]bhyphen

Once I heard the news about Michael’s passing, I immediately thought about doing a tribute episode. But considering how unsuccessful I’ve been with trying to get out the Slaughterhouse show or Chiv’s mini-mix, it’s a good thing my good friend DJ Strizy immediately went to his turntables and did this MJ Tribute Mix in one take. He was kind enough to let me use his mix for my second official show. So enjoy, and I really promise I have new episodes coming.


Victory Jumpoff Radio – Show #2: DJ Strizy’s Michael Jackson Tribute Mix


That's All I Have To Say About That
Year One Batman
[info]bhyphen


Don't get too comfortable with me cheering your team Kobe. I'll still respect you but I'll definitely hate your team by next season. lmao.


I Need To Know 2
Stan Lee
[info]bhyphen
So I currently have three blogs, Hip-Hop Manifesto!!!: The Blog (imusic), Spideyville Unlimited (my music), and this one (personal). How would you guys feel if I combined my music blog with this one? It would mean there would be more music content then regular content  and I'm afraid it might turn off some of you guys. Thoughts?

I Need To Know
Spider-Sense!
[info]bhyphen
From [info]dferguson .

Why do you read my LJ anyways?

What are your favorite type of posts?

What would you like to see more of?


Class & Grime
Marty McFly
[info]bhyphen

I recently started covering the NBA Playoffs for my homie Ryan Ventura’s website Class & Grime.com. My second article just went up this morning and I’ll be contributing to the site for the foreseeable future. As long as Ryan holds up his end of the deal and helps out at Hip-Hop Manifesto!!!: The Blog. lol.

NBA Playoffs: Cavaliers/Magic Game 2: I’m Not Surprised
NBA Playoffs: Lakers/Nuggets Game 5 Preview & Cavs/Magic Game 4: It’s Starting To Shape Up

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