CHilla's Villa

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Wed, 15 May 2013 12:16:54 -0400

A shroud of mystery is surrounding yet another case of police...

Tue, 14 May 2013 17:05:00 -0400

A shroud of mystery is surrounding yet another case of police brutality.

This week 33-year-old David Silva was beaten to death by police. Let me say that again; David Silva was BEATEN TO DEATH by police. Police who are sworn to protect and serve. PROTECT and serve. Now, granted, not all the facts are out yet. I admittedly don’t know what Silva did to, apparently, PROVOKE such a savage beating that cost him his life. I don’t know what kind of person Silva was, I can’t claim he was an angel, a perfect parent, played a pivotal role in society. But did the police know that? Moreover, if they did, should that have mattered? There’s a reason many the facts aren’t out yet; because they are detrimental to the law enforcement involved.

Here’s what I DO know:

David Silva was allegedly intoxicated; something we can only know based off police reports. A deputy and a K9 unit were sent to an area when someone reported a possibly intoxicated man - being Silva. Again, a possibly intoxicated man. Deputy called for backup and SEVEN officers came to the scene. They reported Silva allegedly resisted (again, something we’ll never know) so the police had no other choice, apparently, but to take out their batons and beat the man repeatedly, until he died. Witnesses dispute the claim the attack was provoked. One witness said he was lying there screaming for help. Police seized witnesses’ cell phones after the attack (let’s call it what it is), and reportedly harassed some and arrested others on phony charges. The Sheriff’s department is alleging that Silva provoked the beating, but those who witnessed the events say otherwise. The police have a lot more to lose in this, so I’m prone to believe the conflicting reports.

I don’t judge those who witnessed the events and didn’t interfere too harshly, because in THIS situation their lives could have been on the line; a matter where police were not only on the scene, but causing the matter.

Here’s what else I know:

David Silva was a father of four. Those four children now have no father and when they find out why they’ll learn it was because police beat him to death.

Now, I am not one of those cop-hating people out to destroy the name of all officers involved in the law. I realize there are some good ones, great ones even. But like any group of people, there are good, and there are bad. Why the bad seeds in the police department are held in such a harsher light of criticism, however, is because they are above the law. They are entitled to that privilege where we must succumb to their word. They are given such important power that when it is abused it MUST be subjected to such scrutiny and put under a microscope being analyzed to the umpteenth degree. It is a shame they ruin it for the good ones, but that’s all the more reason we must look at our legal system, at our police system, and demand a change.

Still have questions? Look up Mario Romero. Another case that happened last year that deserves to be looked into.

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Mon, 13 May 2013 01:49:03 -0400

I LOVE MY MAMA Mixtape 1. Kanye West - “Hey Mama” 2....

Sun, 12 May 2013 16:47:28 -0400

I LOVE MY MAMA Mixtape

1. Kanye West - “Hey Mama”

2. Brand Nubian - “Momma”

3. Saigon - “If…My Mommy”

4. Snoop Dogg - “I Love You Momma”

5. Ghostface Killah - “All that I Got is You”

6. 2Pac - “Dear Mama”

7. Beanie Sigel - “Mom’s Praying”

8. Talib Kweli - “Momma Can You Hear Me”

9. Jay-Z - “Blueprint (Momma Loves Me)”

10. 2Pac feat. Anthony Hamilton - “Dear Mama (Nitty Remix)”

Exactly what I’m talking about. No, this shit is NOT...

Sat, 11 May 2013 14:16:00 -0400

Exactly what I’m talking about. No, this shit is NOT funny.

This is the kinda thing people are reacting with. This kind of ignorant, condescending, and yeah RACIST shit people are reacting with. NO, it’s not “just a joke”; there is a common theme here, don’t act like there isn’t.

Fuck all those creating the memes, creating the auto-tuned remixes, ignoring the severity of the situations, just seeing real life folks who are ripe for your satire. Why? You know why you ignorant pieces of shit.

Let me ask you something…

Would you like someone to try and rape YOU or YOUR sister?

Would you mind if people made fun of YOUR house on fire?

Would it be okay if I laughed at YOU being kidnapped for 10 years?

Maybe you should hide yourself cuz ain’t nobody got time for YOU.

could not have said it better myself. Much props to Mr. Elon...

Sat, 11 May 2013 14:01:15 -0400

could not have said it better myself. Much props to Mr. Elon James White

Killer Mike Says "New White Rappers" brought "Self-Pity" to Hiphop

Sat, 11 May 2013 00:02:00 -0400

Killer Mike Says "New White Rappers" brought "Self-Pity" to Hiphop: (article reaction) Killer Mike -...

I know this song is a couple years old but I was reminded about...

Fri, 10 May 2013 15:06:16 -0400

I know this song is a couple years old but I was reminded about it watching those Scarface interviews. Honestly one of the most brutally honest, beautiful, intelligent Hiphop records to come out in a long time.

(would be a little better without Khaled, but still a good joint)

props.

Thu, 09 May 2013 01:36:46 -0400

props.

By now, many people have heard about Charles Ramsey, the man who...

Wed, 08 May 2013 23:36:00 -0400

By now, many people have heard about Charles Ramsey, the man who rescued three women, including Amanda Berry, from being imprisoned in his neighbor’s house.

Since then, due to Ramsey’s personality displayed in his 911 call and interview, described in the media with terms such as “zany” and “flamboyant”, (“zany”? Totally unnecessary) he has risen to fame.

I applaud Mr. Ramsey’s call to action and helping the victims, where others might have heard the pleas for help and either didn’t want it to become their business, or were involved in the Bystander Effect.

Yes, his 911 call was a little… lively, but put in the same scenario with these revelations running through his mind who knows how many of us would have spoken to the 911 Operator. But due to his language, his phrasing, Mr. Ramsey has unfortunately become the butt of the joke for the cynical internet crowd; including memes and an auto-tuned remix. Do not be mistaken, this isn’t a “laugh with him not AT him” situation. No, they’re laughing at him. I read a quote from Miles Kree who REALLY put it best:

“Perhaps it’s time for the world’s meme artists to stop assuming that any black dude getting interviewed on local news about a crime he helped to foil can be reduced to some catch phrase or in-joke. It’s just baffling that we’re trying to find a way to laugh about what is, in itself, a harrowing turn of events.”

And if you’re thinking that those who feel the same as myself and Mr. Kree should “take it easy” – you may just be part of the problem.

What does it say about society when we are so quick to parody an individual like Charles Ramsey. Do people see or hear someone like this and think he’s ripe for parody? The way he looked? The way he spoke? It’s as if there’s a reaction like, forget what he did, look who he IS.

Hell, even the 911 Operator seemed like he wasn’t taking him seriously, it’s a wonder the cops showed up at all.

The media certainly isn’t helping. Nevermind the ridiculous stills they are using of Mr. Ramsey in their articles, but not even a few hours had passed when an article came out with the title: “Amanda Berry is the REAL hero” – based off a quote from one of the officers involved. Amanda Berry had immense courage for finding a way to contact Ramsey, for putting the whole plan into action. I cannot begin to fathom what she has been through, and this isn’t to discredit her at all – but I find it funny they publish that article SO quickly as Mr. Ramsey was been praised for his efforts. Not only that but now, only a day later, are reports surfacing about his alleged criminal past – I will not justify those alleged actions but I will not entertain the allegations here either, because it is IRRELEVANT to the Amanda Berry story.

Mr. Ramsey did show a sense of humor in his down-to-earth, very real interview; and I admit at times he had me smile, but that’s no cause to create this unnecessary penalty. I don’t know if the ones who created those memes or remix who have had the courage he displayed. Rather than mock him, I applaud him in this situation.

No, I don’t know Mr. Charles Ramsey, and I can’t claim he’s some sort of angel or wonderful human being - but from what I do know and have seen, the SAME the public has heard and seen, he seems like a good dude. I’m hoping people will respect him enough to leave him alone rather than bestow upon him some mock celebrity ala Antoine Dodson or William Hung.

“A Song for Assata” - Common

Thu, 02 May 2013 22:37:18 -0400

“A Song for Assata” - Common

Assata Shakur $2 Million Bounty...

Thu, 02 May 2013 22:36:24 -0400

Assata Shakur $2 Million Bounty...: So the FBI is increasing their bounty for Assata Shakur , once...

Scarface continues to preach knowledge during an...

Wed, 01 May 2013 22:00:08 -0400

Scarface continues to preach knowledge during an interview…

Scarface talks about the current state of Hiphop

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 21:47:00 -0400

Scarface talks about the current state of Hiphop: You may or may not agree with what the man says,...

With all the criticizing I’ve been doing lately, I...

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 23:42:43 -0400

With all the criticizing I’ve been doing lately, I don’t want it to be misconstrued: I love Hiphop. That’s why I say the things I’ve been saying.

This is just one mere example of why I love Hiphop…

Because sometimes, you don’t even need words to uplift your spirit. Rest in Power, Dilla.

Video

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 01:47:57 -0400

At a complete and utter loss. At 2:14 marks the infamous...

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 23:43:00 -0400

At a complete and utter loss. At 2:14 marks the infamous “date rape” line - the crowd not only sings along but is arguably loudest at this point. Not only showing signs of support but doing so with PRIDE. Wow.

These last couple weeks I thought the conversation should have dissipated away from Rick Ross in order to progress and develop. However upon hearing Rocko’s response/defense to the controversy (after seemingly pulling Ross’ infamous lyric from the song) it seems nothing really has changed.

People are steady criticizing Reebok - and though I don’t trust Reebok’s sincerity I supported the decision. They’re a huge corporation, so really it doesn’t matter, they’ll survive the backlash. What concerns me is that in the wake of this controversy, nothing has changed but the increase in numbers of Ross’ supporters. Rocko claimed that there are many different versions of the song, and that Ross was never truly removed. This serves as a purpose for Rocko to have an excuse to play a version without Rick Ross - appeasing one side of the argument - but saying he supports Ross and keeping him on a different version - appeasing the other half. Politically-correct politicking happens in Hiphop too, sometimes it’s an act of cowardice like that.

It’s crazy; it seems as though there’s this overabundance of people who are scared at the possibility of engaging in beef with Rick Ross - whether it be supporters like Slim Thug, or opposition who did indeed criticize the situation but held back, like Talib Kweli. But maybe their reactions reflect their genuine feelings on the matter? Well, that’s another problem in and of itself.

For those that are afraid to make negative comments about their peers, it makes me wonder if it’s a question of their skills. Are they afraid if they engage in beef they won’t be up to par? That, for some of the lesser rappers, their weak skills will be put on blast? I always maintained beefs can be good for Hiphop (kept on wax) but they have definitely ended careers. Maybe that’s why they are possibly scared to go against Officer Ricky? And before you say, well Rick Ross isn’t exactly the greatest lyricist to kill one’s career - I agree. However, as we’ve seen in battles like KRS vs. Nelly and Canibus vs. LL Cool J, sometimes skills have little to do with the beef. Mainstream popularity can be a deciding factor BEFORE the battle even begins. Let’s face it, Nelly was no match for KRS lyrically, and Canibus took LL to task - yet the mainstream tends to remember Nelly and LL. So maybe these rappers are scared to go against a “powerhouse” like Ross who’s popularity is right up there among other radio rappers. In regards to Kweli, some suggest he was just trying to keep the peace - it’s possible. But with an album coming out (Prisoner of Consciousness, May 7th) it makes me wonder - especially with Kweli lately trying to inexplicably go against the “conscious rapper” moniker people have bestowed upon him. I get not wanting to be pigeon-held into a label, but if you’re not “conscious” you’re unconscious. There’s worse things to be called if you’re an emcee. But that’s a conversation left for another time.

Yet I digress.

Far worse than the artists squabbling or not with each other is the reaction from people. From the “freedom of speech” to the “it’s just music”, to the ever-popular “it isn’t about me” explanation, let’s call them what they are, EXCUSES.

I definitely don’t expect anyone to agree with my opinions, if everyone held a singular point of view on things nothing but problems would arise. Conflicting thoughts CAN be conducive. However, the majority of opinion I’m seeing has led to complete disappointment. Of course, I shouldn’t be surprised, but it saddens me to see the reactions people have to the controversy and to the people who spoke out against Ross say things such as this:
[these are all real]

-“Hoes are some unstable creatures, but you still gotta luv them because they suck the best dick…”

-“You sound like you a boring lame who get no pu**y.. Its just music and those college students…are just enjoying good music”

-“Man these dudes spend their whole existence throwing salt…when Ross drops that album show support and cop that album. I know I am, cause I like the mans music and I hope his numbers go up in the face of all this hate…”

Another instance of us being “haters” because we don’t condone those lyrics. I’m not going around telling people to NOT buy/listen to his music, but at the same time I will not support rape culture. And the only reason we CARE is out of LOVE, not HATE, don’t get it twisted.

one person asked:

“if ross made a rap about raping your mom and sister in a song, would you still say its just music?”

the response given was:

“Yes i would say its just music but why would I listen to anybody talking about raping my mom and my sister? Now you coming with some make believe sh*t (if)… Fact is this man didnt say nothing about raping nobody only sensitive folk who dont even like the music are the ones complaining. If I didnt like it I wouldnt listen to it and STFU.”

Really? A guy rhymes about raping your Mom and Sister and you’re honestly telling me you’re going to sit there and say “it’s just music”? It’s funny, the person says that scenario is “make-believe”, funny thing about it is it’s not that far from the truth. In fact, it IS the truth. These women that get degraded are someone’s daughter. They could be someone’s mother and sister as well.

The point is, it’s exactly those kind of responses that continue to plague the minds of many. Continuous excuses from those recited above. Others went on to say it’s “just entertainment” - but people only seem to make that argument when it’s convenient. Other times the same people would defend violent lyrics saying it’s a reflection on the real world. It’s no longer “just entertainment” when the realism bleeds into real life, when it influences inappropriate behavior in the gullible minds who cannot distinguish between fact and fiction.

The thing is, people are inclined to their opinions, as I previously stated. I just wish people had substance in their arguments. It seems as though people are letting their emotions and defenses run high and it’s closing off their minds to be receptive to another “truth” than the one they know. It’s difficult trying to teach those who are unwilling to learn. I commend anyone who is up to the challenge.

TMZ Links Hiphop to Boston Bombings

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 16:11:45 -0400

TMZ Links Hiphop to Boston Bombings: MY REACTION: Whenever a major travesty occurs people often try...

Happy 420! Groove Responsibly 1. Cypress Hill - “Hits from...

Sat, 20 Apr 2013 16:52:00 -0400

Happy 420! Groove Responsibly

1. Cypress Hill - “Hits from the Bong”

2. Redman & Method Man - “How High (pt. 1)”

3. Styles P - “Good Times”

4. Pharcyde - “Pack the Pipe”

5. Bizzy Bone - “Fried Day”

6. Gang Starr - “Take Two and Pass”

7. Cypress Hill - “Roll It Up, Light It Up, Smoke It Up”

8. Luniz - “I Got 5 On It”

9. Outkast - “Crumblin’ Urb”

10. Busta Rhymes - “Get High Tonight”

11. MF Doom - “My Favortie Ladies”

12. The Alchemist feat. Evidence & Styles P - “Calmly Smoke”

13. People Under the Stairs - “Acid Raindrops”

14. Devin the Dude - “Doobie Ashtray”

15. De La Soul - “Peer Pressure”

16. Bone Thugs-n-Harmony - “Buddah Luvaz”

17. Redman - “How to Roll A Blunt”

18. Coolio - “I’m in Love with Mary Jane”

19. Dr. Dre feat. Snoop Dogg & Akon - “Kush”

20. Tash feat. Outkast & B-Real - “Smokefest 1999”

Dizaster vs. Arcane Finally got around to watching this. Diz has...

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 23:07:00 -0400

Dizaster vs. Arcane

Finally got around to watching this. Diz has always been great in any battle I’ve seen him in, but as you may or may not know this was the infamous battle where he got “caught up” by the crowd’s reaction - a rare occurence to Dizaster.

Dizaster may have lost this battle, but he won the war. The scathing truth Dizaster addresses in Arcane’s, allegedly fraudulent, claims of originality leaves one to question his credibility. I admittedly was never a big fan or a harsh critic of Arcane, but Diz’ words made a lasting affect; and I’m not the only one.

I give much respect to Dizaster battling in “hostile” territory, an environment where he was decidedly going to lose even before the battle had begun. And sure, he may have let the crowd get to him, which isn’t an excuse for taking the loss. He lost, plain and simple. Showing his emotions, and especially once he lost his cool (26:57) he automatically takes the “L” - much like Reverie did in her battle to Jenn Johnson (a battle some say Reverie would have otherwise won)

Ultimately I find it strange though. Arcane won, but Dizaster’s words were the ones I remembered. If what he claims is true then Arcane has violated one of the most respected institutions in Hiphop, and THAT gives him a loss he shouldn’t be able to come back from.