Grammy and Juno Award-winning producer/engineer David Strickland has released his debut solo album Foundation viaMNRK Music, a 20 track instrumental project that seamlessly blends his hip hop-fuelled musical inspirations over the years. Boasting production credits with a who’s who of rap superstars including Drake, EPMD, The Clipse, Def Squad, Method Man, Kardinal Offishall, Saukrates, Maestro Fresh Wes and many more, Foundation arrives as a follow up to his last critically-acclaimed 2022 release Spirit of Hip Hop: Elements album, and its prior accompanying series, that celebrated, showcased and highlighted a wide range of North American rap icons alongside emerging Indigenous rappers. “This album represents the first time I did something musically that was just strictly by myself. No MCs or singers. Just me alone. Producer and engineer,” explains the Scarborough-born producer/engineer who has quietly worked behind the scenes for decades, producing, mixing and/or engineering records from the likes of Canadian urban music legends including Glenn Lewis, Ghetto Concept, Jelleestone, Choclair and k-os.
“I was in NYC going through beats in the studio and I was looking at the last two albums I released and the instrumental versions, and it made me think about how guys like DJ Muggs and The Alchemist have been doing instrumental albums for years. I spoke to my A&R and VP about the idea, and then locked myself in the studio and banged out and revamped a couple beats and it just all came together.”
Strickland pays homage to his neighborhood roots on “Scarboro Forever”, and references his career sustenance on “The Journey”, but what lies at the core of the highly rhythmic, breezy and boom bap-inspired production on Foundation, is that at its core, it reminds listeners of what it takes to make a hit record – the production, which is the foundation. But the album title carries deeper layers of meaning. “Music is the foundation of any song, and I am a part of the foundation of the ‘Toronto Sound’. Any good project needs a solid foundation. And say what you want about me, but I’m a finisher. I always deliver.” Foundation delivers on all fronts, and appeals to music lovers of many stripes, as its contemporary sonic edges are rounded out nicely by its timeless classic old school musical sensibilities.
Rising superstar AJSnow returns to the music scene with his highly anticipated new album “TheGameDon’tDeserveMe”. With a rapidly growing fanbase, a distinct sound, and raw creativity, this release solidifies Snow as a top tier contender in the rap game. Infusing his southern upbringing with a West Coast influence into his music, has allowed him to create a sound that will influence the masses for years to come.
Independently rising to the forefront of music AJ Snow’s “The Game Don’t Deserve Me” serves as a reminder to people that his talent is effortless and limitless, setting him apart for the rest of the competition. Within 10 tracks you will hear the prolific rapper confidently sharing his experience through the music business, life experiences traveling the world, and what the life of a rising superstar looks like. One song that stands out the most is track 3 titled “Mushroom Ravioli” produced by frequent collaborator 2 time Grammy nominated producer JansportJ. As the two have created an undeniably infectious sound together, you will hear several Snow and Sport records on “The Game Don’t Deserve Me”. You will also hear production from established hitmakers CushWithAC and DavisStrauss.
Just like his favorites Curren$y, and DomKennedy, AJ Snow is a legend in the making. With over 85,000 monthly listeners and millions of streams collectively on all major digital streaming platforms, his latest offering could not have come at a better time. He is exactly what the music game is missing. AJSnow is one of the hottest artists ready to take the music industry by storm. Press play below to stream his highly anticipated “TheGameDon’tDeserveMe” album below.
The R&B/Pop indie singer displays an enticing purr kitten style while she proclaims her attachment to her man, his presence, lovemaking, and everything in between. She holds no qualms coining this grown music, so put the babies to bed before pressing play.
Murder Unit (Fly Ty of Rockboy Records and Rud3) along with Rockboy Records and RMG debut their self-titled project. The 7-track album comes with production by legendary music producer D/R Period. Fly Ty and Rud3 deliver bangers for the ladies and fellas, and tracks for the younger generation. Stream ‘Murder Unit’ and connect below.