CAMRON FT. VADO - YOU THE BADDEST

Here's a new Killa Cam joint called "You The Baddest" featuring Vado. Finally a new Cam joint that I can bump for the summer. Check out this smooth track here.

VIDEO: BETTER ON THE OTHER SIDE (MJ TRIBUTE)

Here's the video of The Game's MJ tribute song "On The Other Side" featuring Chris Brown, Diddy, Polow Da Don, Mario Winans, Usher and Boyz II Men.

MIXTAPE: DJ WOOGIE PRESENTS CASHIS BOGISH BOY VOL. 5

Damm... Cashis has been on his grind lately... Check out his newest mixtape, DJ Woogie presents Bogish Boy Vol. 5. You can download the mixtape here.
Look for a track from Cashis on the upcoming Tradition mixtape as well.

CONSEQUENCE FT. KANYE WEST & JOHN LEGEND - WHATEVER YOU WANT

Here's the first single from Consequence's upcoming Cons TV. "Whatever You Like" features Kanye West & John Legend. Kanye actually raps on this one too.

ROYCE DA 5'9 - GUN HARMONIZING

Royce Da 5'9 is preparing the release of his highly-anticipated “Street Hop” LP on Spet. 2nd. The album is executive-produced by DJ Premier and has already generated overwhelming critical accolades alone with the release of a few street-singles. Royce will also be releasing a Digital only four song EP entitled “The Revival.” “The Revival” will be released on July 7th, and it will include new tracks from Royce’s “Street Hop” LP along with a new Slaughterhouse track. Check out the first leak from Royce's "The Revival" EP called "Gun Harmonizing" (produced by Emile).

VIDEO: NALEDGE - FOCUS

Naledge "Focus" from Okayplayer on Vimeo.

Here's a new video from Naledge for his Track "Focus" from his album Chicago Picasso on DuckDown Records. This is a pretty dope video.

The video was directed by Noah Banks over the course of two weeks and was made from 3,000 still images and zero video footage. Watch Naledge get his stop-motion on while making his way through the streets of the Chi.

MIXTAPE: COOKIN' SOUL - TRIBUTE TO THE KING OF POP

Here's another MJ tribute mixtape for all of you... This time it's brought to you by Cookin' Soul and features 50 Cent, Kid Cudi, Jay-Z, Biggie, and more. You can download the mixtape here. Check the tracklist below.

01 - Intro
02 - Beat it feat. Kid Cudi
03 - Remember the time feat. 50 Cent
04 - Bad feat. Ludacris
05 - Skit
06 - I Want You Back feat. Lil Wayne
07 - Don’t stop ‘Til You Get Enough feat. Jay-Z
08 - Black or White feat. Eminem
09 - Thriller feat. Notorious B.I.G
10 - Rock with you feat. Notorious B.I.G
11 - Smooth Criminal feat. 2Pac
12 - You Rock My World feat. Nas
13 - outro
14 - I can´t help it (Cookin Soul Band Remix)

VIDEO: SUGE KNIGHT LIGHT

Are your kids scared of the dark? No problem. You don't need a night light, get them the Suge Knight Light. It'll keep them safe, especially from the boogie man. This video is too funny.

Shouts to Baller Status

VIDEO:MR HUDSON FT. KANYE WEST - SUPERNOVA

MR HUDSON [FEAT KANYE WEST] - SUPERNOVA from MrHudson on Vimeo.

Here's a new video from Mr. Hudson featuring Kanye West called "Supernova." I'm not backing this track at all, but I know many of you are Kanye fans, so I thought I would post this up for that reason alone. I'm sure this song will be a hit at the clubs though.
I though Jay-Z officially killed autotune???

I SHOOT PEOPLE - 5 CITY TOUR

Trevor Traynor's photoshow "I Shoot People" is currently on a 5 city tour across the United States. The show is currently at Tradition, and runs through July 15th. For those who have not had a chance to come by, I strongly suggest you take the time to check out Trevor's amazing work... Over 150 photos of some of Hip Hop's greatest artists of all time.

VIDEO: RAEKWON - BTS OF WALK WITH ME

Raekwon was recently in Hawaii, shooting the video for a track called "Walk With Me" from his upcoming album OB4CL2. In this video, Rae describes the concept as well as the lyrical content behind the track. OB4CL2 drops August 11th.

VIDEO: 3 OLD COUGARS DROPPIN IT LIKE ITS HOT

This is for all you dudes that like to tame Cougars. Think these were old Black Panthers though!

WILL YAO EVER PLAY AGAIN?

The Houston Rockets already said that Yao Ming's recovery from a broken foot was behind schedule, but that setback might now cost him all of next season or worse.

"At this point, the injury has the potential for him missing this next season and could be career threatening," team physician Tom Clanton said, according to the Houston Chronicle. "One of the things we are trying to get is a consensus opinion on that, to make certain there is no option we are overlooking that would provide an earlier return or would be an option for treatment that he would prefer rather than doing additional surgery."

The team is weighing different options. Yao suffered a hairline fracture of the tarsal navicular bone of his left foot in the Rockets' second-round playoff loss to the Lakers on May 8. The team initially said Yao would miss eight to 12 weeks, but a bone scan last week revealed that the fracture is not healing properly.

ALCHEMIST FT. OHNO, ROC C, & CROOKED I - ACTS OF VIOLENCE

Alchemist is back with a brand new leak from his upcoming album, Chemical Warfare. This track is called "Acts of Violence," and features Ohno, Roc C, and Crooked I. Chemical Warfare drops next Tuesday, July 7th.

HEADPHONIES

We just received a shipment of Headphonies at the shop. Headphonies are limited edition 3" portable speakers, with artwork done by various artists. They were designed by Eran Weinberg, a product designer who was fascinated by the designer vinyl industry. The Headphonies concept combines the designer vinyl style toy with the functionality of a portable speaker.
The designer mini speakers are 3 inches tall, and feature an internal rechargeable battery which allows for approximately 4-8 hours play time. They also includes an audio cable, a USB charging cable, and a Keyring clip. They are also available in all white and all black.

NO LABEL WATCHES

You know we always try to bring you the newest and freshest gear that we can find. Tradition is one of the few select retailers in California to carry No Label Watches! We've carried these watched for about a month, and I think that they are fresh!. These watches come in a variety of colors, and are a great alternative to G-Shocks. They have alarm clock, timer, bright blue backlight and a single mold design.
Check out these pics of The Clipse and Wale rocking No Label!

CA$HIS - BIGGER THAN ME

Ca$his is back with some more heat... Here’s a new track from Ca$his called “Bigger Than Me” off of his upcoming LP Euthanasia. Look for a track from Ca$his on the upcoming Tradition mixtape as well.

MIXTAPE: DJ PREMIER MJ TRIBUTE

DJ Premier put together this live MJ tribute mix for his radio show last Saturday. The tribute is a dope mix of all things Michael... You can download it here.

YOUNG CHRIS - FT. FREEWAY & BEANIE SEGIL "LAST TWO"

Here's a new 9th Wonder produced tracked from Young Chris called "Last Two." This track is the return of State Property, and features both Freeway and Beanie Sigel!

SOUL ASSASSINS MAGAZINE

We just a few copies of the debut issue of the Soul Assassins magazine at the shop. This magazine serves as a platform to keep fans updated as to what is going on with the SA fam as well as a look book for the current Soul Assassins merchandise. There are interview with DJ Muggs, Cypress Hill, Alchemist, Mr. Cartoon, Estevan Oriol, Sick Jacken, and more. It's cool to see the Soul Assassins X Tradition tees represented as well.
The Soul Assassins magazine is free with purchase of any Soul Assassins tee while supplies last.

PHIL, KOBE IN ZEN

INMATES PERFORM A MJ TRIBUTE

Here's a video of a tribute performed by 1,500 CPDRC Inmates in a Philippines prison on June 27, 2009 in memory of Michael Jackson. Completed in 10 hours after receiving word that the King of Pop passed away. Pretty crazy footage.

THE ROOTS & ERYKAH BADU - I WANNA BE WHERE YOU ARE (MICHAEL JACKSON TRIBUTE)

Erykah Badu joined The Roots on Jimmy Fallon this past Friday to join The Legendary during their on-air tribute to the late Michael Jackson. While most of the treats happened between commercial breaks, Questlove was generous enough to pass along this cover of “I Wanna Be Where You Are” which they recorded live in the 30 Rock studio just before the taping began. Check it out here.

VIDEO: JAY-Z "DEATH OF AUTOTUNE"

Those of you that watched the BET awards last night probably caught the world premier of this video directly following the awards show. Jay-Z is back with his new video "Death of Autotune" the first single from Blueprint 3... Let's hope the rest of the album is as good as this is. You can download "Death of Autotune" here.

I know we facin a recession
But the music yall makin gonna make it the great depression
Ah, or your lack of aggression
Pull your skirt back down, grow a set men

VIDEO: DOM KENNEDY - SHOWTIME (BEHIND THE SCENES)

Here's the homey Dom Kennedy's behind the scenes look at his upcoming video "Showtime" off his highly successful mixtape FutureStreets/DrugSounds. Dope idea to do it downtown on game 1 of the finals!

50 CENT - RESPECT IT OR CHECK IT N*#@*

Here's a new 50 Cent joint called “Respect It Or Check It N*#@*.” Not sure where the sample came from but it's pretty fresh. I guess 50 still has some hits left in him.

VIDEO: KANYE WEST - STREET LIGHTS

MACK 10 FT. LIL WAYNE & RICK ROSS - SO SHARP

West Coast gangster rap icon Mack 10 is preparing to release his ninth CD, Soft White in August. Here's the first single called “So Sharp” which features two of hip-hop’s biggest names from the South, Lil’ Wayne and Rick Ross. In addition to the heavyweight single, Mack 10's entire album boasts an all-star list of cameos, including Anthony Hamilton, J. Holiday, Akon, Birdman, Jim Jones, Jazze Pha, Red Cafe and Glasses Malone among others.

Mack 10 has had an amazing career as a member of Westside Connection with Ice Cube and WC, as a solo artist and as a label owner. He has sold nearly 3 million albums, his first three reaching gold and Bow Down (with Westside Connection) scoring platinum.

TRADITION AT THE COLISEUM

The homey Paul stopped to kick it at the shop today and brought some photos from the Laker Parade. Paul was fortunate enough to get into the jam packed Coliseum. He got some pretty dope photos, enjoy.

Here's peeps bum rushing the gates. Peep the lady holding the little boy.


Aftermath, police brought out the horses.


Damn, Paul caught this dude rocking the Tradition X Quality Control collab out of 95,000.


Damn how did Kobe get in the stands?


The ceremony

2010 LV RUCK-SACKS

Here's a look at the new Louis Vuitton Spring 2010 Ruck-Sacks. Not my style but I'm sure we are going to see Pharrell and Kanye all over with these on. The LV towels are pretty fresh though

"THIS IS JIM JONES" DOCUMENTARY (SNEAK PEAK)

This Is Jim Jones is an In-Depth look at the controversial rapper that exposes a side of Jones few fans have ever seen. The DVD will be available in select stores this tuesday June 30th. Shouts out to the homey Young Rob, I know he'll be camping out for this DVD. Hahaha.

DAZ - DILLINGER & MAKAVELI TRIBUTE (MIXTAPE)

Here's a new mixtape from DJ Nik Bean and Daz called "Dillinger & Makaveli Tribute." Pac tribute music will never die. Check it out here.

VIDEO: CLIPSE FT. PHARRELL - I'M GOOD (BEHIND THE SCENES)

THE ROOKIE: BLAKE GRIFFIN - (EPISODE 3)

Do you see the handles on this guy? Blake is gonna be a superstar, you just know when players have it. Dude is a workhorse.

TRAILER: JAY-Z - DEATH OF AUTOTUNE

Here's the trailer for the video for Jay-Z's Death of Autotune. The full video drops Sunday after the BET awards.

VAPORS

I got a little write up in the newest issue of Vapors featuring Shawn Mortenson (R.I.P.) on the cover. I've been writing for Vapors for almost a year now, and the newest issue features an interview I did with Anthony Pappalardo one of the authors of Radio Silence. You can read the unedited interview in the features section of our website.

CA$HIS FT. CARLITO ROSSI & CHAMILLIONAIRE - WHAT UP

Here's a new track from the homey Ca$his featuring Carlito Rossi and Chamillionaire called "What Up." This tracks was produced by Rikanatti, and it is a banger!
Look for a new mixtape with Ca$his and Carlito Rossi called "The Usual Suspects Vol. 1" to drop in the next few months.

SOUL ASSASSINS X TRADITION X FASHAWN

Thanks to everyone that came out last Sunday to the listening party for the new Soul Assassins "Intermission" album at Tradition. With performances from DJ Muggs and Fashawn, plus free tacos, as well as free drinks from Tranphusion, you know everyone had a great time.
Thanks again to everyone that came out as well as the whole Soul Assassins family for making this happen!


Skinhead Rob repping Expensive Taste


Fashawn rocking our Tradition "Jordan Pack" New Era


Sista Asia is heavy in the rap game... She hooked me and Jason up with some tickets to the BET awards after party, so expect some pics from that


Lil' Meezy freestyling like a mad man


DJ Muggs doing his thing... Don't sleep on the Intermission, the album is dope... We've got some copies for sale at the shop!


Fashawn killed it... But what else would you expect from one of the biggest up and comers the West hast to offer... We have a few copies of his Higher Learning mixtape for free at the shop, or you can download it for free here.


Dietrich from SA Kennels came by with a new breed called the SA Terrier.... This cute dog only gets to weigh about 25 pounds full grown. I think Nick Diamond just copped one...


G Rocka... The newest member of the SA family


The taco truck was a hit... look for it at upcoming Tradition events


Drinks provided by Transphusion... Thanks guys!

"BETTER ON THE OTHER SIDE" - A TRIBUTE TO MJ

DJ Skee just dropped this brand new tribute to Michael Jackson called "Better on the Other Side." This track was produced by DJ Khalil and features Game, Chris Brown, Boyz 2 Men, Mario Winans, and more.
In related news, Rime and Augor (MSK) painted this dope tribute to MJ last night... Expect to see more tributes rolling in over the next few days.

NAS FT. DAMIAN MARLEY - AS WE ARE (SNIPPET)

Here's a snippet of a new Nas track called "As We Are" featuring Damian Marley. Its Pretty dope, I will post the full track as soon as it becomes available. Check it out here.

MICHAEL JACKSON & FARRAH FAWCETT (R.I.P)

As you know Michael Jackson has died. He was 50. Michael suffered a cardiac arrest earlier this afternoon at his Holmby Hills home and paramedics were unable to revive him. When paramedics arrived Jackson had no pulse and they never got a pulse back. A cardiologist at UCLA told the media Jackson died of cardiac arrest.



Farrah Fawcett, the 1970s icon also died this morning after a long struggle with anal cancer. She was 62. Longtime love Ryan O'Neal, who recently promised to marry Fawcett, and her friend Alana Stewart, who filmed a documentary about her cancer battle, were by her side when she died at 9:28 a.m. PST at a Los Angeles hospital. Her only child, Redmond O'Neal, is in jail on drug charges, but did receive permission for a final visit with his mother a few weeks ago.

LAKERS PARADE "CARRY ON TRADITION"

Here's some footage of some peeps wearing the Black Mamba tees we sold at Tradition. Look closely at the start of the video, there's a guy wearing our Tradition X Quality Control "Carry On Tradition tee. I don't know any of these guys, pretty cool that peeps are reppin though! Shout out to the homey Gio for the footage.

CLIPPERS TAKE GRIFFIN AT #1

2009 Lottery Picks

1 PF Blake Griffin, Oklahoma -Clippers
2 C Hasheem Thabeet, UConn -Grizzlies
3 SG James Harden, ASU -Thunder
4 SG Tyreke Evans, Memphis -Kings
5 PG Ricky Rubio, Spain -Wolves
6 PG Jonny Flynn, Syracuse - Wolves
7 PG Stephen Curry, Davidson -Warriors
8 PF Jordan Hill, Arizona -Knicks
9 SG DeMar DeRozan, USC -Raptors
10 PG Brandon Jennings, Italy -Bucks
11 SG Terrence Williams, Louisville -Nets
12 SG Gerald Henderson, Duke -Bobcats
13 PF Tyler Hansbrough, UNC -Pacers
14 SF Earl Clark, Louisville -Suns

VIDEO: PUMA X ERYKAH BADU

VIMBY - Puma x Erykah Badu

After a show at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles, Erykah Badu hit the Viper room for a jam session sponsored by Puma. Vimby was there to capture all of the action and performances.

N.E.R.D. VIDEO GAME

Check out this cool little video game on the brand new N.E.R.D. site. You can be Chad, Pharrell, of Shae (You know Bui's dream is to be Pharrell) and you must defeat the evil space gorilla with brain power. You can play the game here.

GHOSTFACE, RZE, & HAVOC - "EVIL DEEDS"

Here’s another leak off the upcoming Wu album, Chamber Music, which drops next Tuesday. This album pairs Wu-Tang members with classic New York MCs from the 1990’s era over beats and live instrumentation from Brooklyn soul crew The Revelations. We have leaked a few tracks from this album already, and this new track "Evil Deeds" is one of my favorites... Cop the album next tuesday!

TRAILER: CYMARSHALL LAW - KING WITH 4 WIVES

KING WITH 4 WIVES _ TRAILER from Eric Thompson on Vimeo.

Here's the trailer for the upcoming video for Cymarshall Law's "King With 4 Wives." The video was directed by Eric Thompson, and will release on July 9th.

BREAKING NEWS: SHAQ TRADED TO CAVS

The Cleveland Cavaliers and the Phoenix Suns have come to an agreement on a blockbuster trade that sends Shaquille O'Neal to Cleveland to team with LeBron James, according to sources. The deal has been agreed to in principle and is expected to be finalized Thursday, according to sources. Cleveland will send Ben Wallace and Sasha Pavlovic to Phoenix for the future Hall of Famer. Sources said the Suns will also receive the 46th pick in Thursday's NBA draft and $500,000. King James is shot calling in Cleveland!

GRAFH FT. RAEKWON & MR. PROBZ - COLD BLACK HAND

I don't know much about Grafh, but this beat is dark and grimey, and Raekwon kills his verse. Check out Grafh's "Cold Black Hand" featuring Raekwon and Mr. Probz.
"Eat your vegetables!"

VIDEO: PAC DIV "MAYOR"

Here's the brand new video for Pac Div's hit "Mayor." This song always goes over great live...
"Just another day out in sunny L.A..."

FULL DECK ARTSHOW

The homey, Chase Tafoya, will have a few pieces in an upcoming artshow called FULL DECK, being held at the Beford Gallery in Walnut Creek.
Artists include Mike Giant,Jeremy Fish,Mark Gonzales, Wes Humpston, Natas Kaupas, Amanda Lynn, Pushead, and more.
Chase will be showing 6 new pieces, 5 of which are from the new POSITIVE MOVEMENT ALLIANCE (P.M.A.) collection of skateboards. P.M.A. is a Universal Lifestyle movement here to raise the consciousness of every community around the world.
The opening reception is Thursday, July 9th from 6:00-8:00 PM. The show runs from July 5-Sept 13.

VIDEO: REFLECTION ETERNAL - BACK AGAIN

Talib Kweli + Hi Tek-Reflection Eternal -Back Again-Vid Premiere

Talib Kweli and Hi-Tek are back again as Reflection Eternal. Check out the first official video, Back Again, featuring Res on the hook.
Now we just need a video from Talib and Mos.

LA COKA NOSTRA FT. SNOOP DOGG - BANG BANG

Here's a brand new song called "Bang Bang" from La Coka Nostra's long awaited debut album, A Brand You Can Trust. This track features Snoop Dogg over La Coka's signature grimey sound... Can't wait for the album.

PREACHER GETS PUNCHED IN THE EYE

Damn, this is just wrong but funny!

LIL' MEEZY FREESTYLING AT TRADITION X SA EVENT

Just in case you weren't able to come to the Tradition X Soul Assassins Event sunday, here's my 11 year old son Miles A.K.A Lil' Meezy freestyling on a few tracks. He's getting better by the day, watch out when someone starts writing verses for him!

PART 1

PART 2

SHOW ME THE MONEY

The homey Jonathan Lipnicki stopped by Tradition today to get some goodies before his trip to Europe. You may know him as the little boy Ray in Jerry Maguire.

VIDEO: DIZ GIBRAN - CAPITAL D (LIVE @ MOUNTAIN BAR)

Capital D is one of my favorite Diz tracks, here's a little video clip of a performance at the Mountain Bar in L.A.

MAYBACH 62 ZEPPELIN

Never mind the economy: Maybach is still making money. The 5.7 meter long Maybach 57 and the 6.2 meter long Maybach 62 remain despite their bumper-to-bumper hand-craftedness—serious cash cows for Germany’s Daimler AG, the parent company of Mercedes-Benz. Unique to the Zeppelins is an available perfume atomizer that silently and automatically sprays one of two scents into the cabin: light and refreshing or slightly heavier and woodsier. The modern Zeppelins pack fearsome 12-cylinder engines, a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V-12 producing a monumental 640 horsepower and 738 foot-pounds of torque. Although U.S.-market pricing hasn’t been announced, the German-market sticker for the 57 Zeppelin is 406,000 euros (about $538,000) and 473,200 euros (about $628,000) for the 62 Zeppelin. The nifty perfume atomizer will add a cool 3,950 euros (around $5,300) to the bottom line. Success has never smelled quite so sweet.

VIDEO: PETE FROM SOIA ON BUILT ON RESPECT

Built On Respect is an organization based upon the mission of "treating people with respect, and sewing the seeds of fairness creates solidarity." Watch the video to learn more.

"The violation of any person’s human rights should not and can not be tolerated in this day and age. The fact that our friend Heidi is taking on the injustices that have and are being done to the Tibetan people on a DIY level should be commended and supported. Sick of it All believes in taking any kind of action on such issues. We fully endorse and support Heidi and her "Built on Respect" movement... so help out in anyway you can."
– Pete Koller, Sick of it All

TASH FT. B-REAL - HOW HI CAN YOU GET?

Here's another new joint off of Tash's new solo project called "How Hi Can You Get?" featuring B-Real. Tash's new album, Control Freak, releases the end of June.
Tash made a name for himself in the 90's with Tha Alkaholiks alongside E-Swift, and J-Ro.

KOBE & LAKERS ON JIMMY KIMMEL

Jimmy's interview with the Lakers: Kobe Bryant, Pau Gasol, Derek Fisher, Trevor Ariza, Jordan Farmar, Shannon Brown, Josh Powell, DJ Mbenga, and Adam Morrison. Pretty hilarious!

TRADITION X SOUL ASSASSINS X FASHAWN

Yesterday was the listening party for the Soul Assassins Intermission album at Tradition. We had performances by DJ Muggs and Fashawn, photos by Trevor Traynor, as well as a taco truck and drinks from Tranphusion. I want to thank the entire Soul Assassins crew, Fashawn, and everyone for coming out. I will be posting more photos as well as some video footage in the next few days. You can see more photos here.
Soul Assassins Intermission releases tomorrow, but we have some copies for sale now at the shop!



DJ Muggs killing it

Fashawn repping the 'no

Trevor Traynor's "I Shoot People"

Skinhead Rob repping Expensive Taste

Lil' Meezy freestyling like no other

PAPOOSE - PAY HOMAGE

Here's a hot new Papoose track called "Pay Homage." Papoose is slept on as a MC, peep the track here.

LEBRON MOVES BBALL SUMMER CAMP TO SAN DIEGO

LeBron James is moving his King's Academy summer basketball camp from his hometown of Akron, Ohio, to the campus of UC San Diego. The NBA MVP and star of the Cleveland Cavaliers has scheduled his camp, for boys and girls between 8 and 18, for July 24-28.Moving the King's Academy gives kids in another part of the country the chance to experience it.

"He's a guy who's a family guy, and he's a guy who needs a vacation in the offseason, so that's where San Diego came into the realm of possibility," said Haley, who also mentioned the number of courts at UCSD. The cost is $650 for overnight campers and $510 for day campers. Might need to sign my son miles up!

TRADITION X SOUL ASSASSINS COVERAGE

I didnt get a chance to upload and photos from the Soul Assassins event yesterday at Tradition. VenturasFinest was there to cover the event. Check out the pics here.

MIXTAPE: TRV$DJAM - FIX YOUR FACE VOL. 2

Check out this mixtape from DJ AM and Travis Barker called "Fix Your Face Vol. 2." This mixtape was recorded live at Coachella, and features DJ AM on the Seratos platters of steel and Travis Barker on drums. Like him or not, Travis is one of the best drummers around!
I have seen their live set before, and it is definitely not to be missed!

VIDEO: ALCHEMIST & OH NO "UNDER SIEGE"

This video dropped a few days ago, but I was so busy setting up our events that I didn't get a chance to drop it. Check out this dope video from Alchemist and Oh No... These two take it back to the L.A. Riots of 1992 with cameos from DJ Muggs and Scott Caan.

VIDEO: CLIPSE - KINDA LIKE A BIG DEAL

Check out the video for "Kinda Like a Big Deal" from the Clipse featuring Kanye West. This track was produced by DJ Khalil. 'Til the Casket Drops coming soon!

TODAY AT TRADITION!

The long awaited Soul Assassins album, "Intermission", drops next week and Tradition is proud to host the official listening and album release party on Sunday from 2:00 to 6:00. The album features Bun B, Fashawn, Evidence, Xzibit, and more. DJ Muggs from the legendary Cypress Hill will be on hand mixing up a set of tracks from the "Intermission" album. Up and coming Fresno based MC, Fashwan, is set to perform as well as some unannounced guests from the Soul Assassins family. With DJ Muggs in the house you never know who is gonna get on stage and spit!
Drinks will be provided from Transphusion... Special guest appearance by El Cuco Taco Truck!!!

SNEAK PEAK

Trevor Traynor's "I Shoot People" opens tonight at Tradition, and we were burning the midnight oil hanging over 175 photos until 2:00 in the morning. Here is a sneak peak of a handful of photographs from the exhibit. See you tonight!

BOY CRAZY OR JUST PLAIN CRAZY?

Boy Crazy Promo from alexi wasser on Vimeo.

IMBOYCRAZY is a new blog from aspiring actress (wasn't she in that gum commercial??) Alexi Wasser. Alexi is both neurotic and funny (in a Woody Allen type of way), and her blog is always an interesting read. Alexi isn't afraid to open up and share everything with her readers, and that's what makes her blog unique.
No, It's not a blog about sneakers, but it's definitely entertaining. See what really goes inside the head of an American Apparel obsessed "Hipster" chick.

JIM JONES FT. SEN CITY - A MILLION

Here's a new Jim Jones joint called "A Million" featuring Sen City. If this track sounds familiar its because Drake used this same track in a song called "Successful." Either way this song is dope, check it out here.

VIDEO: DOM KENNEDY EVERYBODY KNOWS US X HARD WORK (LIVE)

VIDEO: GARY BASEMAN ON VIMBY

VIMBY - Gary Baseman

I've always been a fan of Gary Baseman's work... He unique illustrations bring to mind classic comic strips and Japanese pop art. Vimby caught up with Mr. Baseman to discuss he creative process from sketches to a finished piece.

LOS ANGELES - Legendary artist Gary Baseman talks about his decision to follow his passion full time and gives us a look at his newest gallery show.

VIDEO: GLENN DANZIG'S BOOK COLLECTION

Check out this very strange video of Glenn Danzig (frontman for The Misfits, Samhain, and Danzig) and his book collection. why he decided to show off his book collection shirtless in this black and white video is beyond me...

MIXTAPE: WALE & 9TH WONDER -BACK TO THE FEATURE

We've been hearing about this mixtape for awhile, and it's finally here. LRG presents Wale & 9th Wonder's "Back to the Feature." This mixtape features appearances from Freeway, Joe Budden, Talib Kweli, Mephis Bleek, Bun B, K'naan, and more.
Wale made some noise with the release of his track "Nike Boots" last year, and he is no getting alot of radio play for his track "Chilling" which features Lady Gaga. 9th Wonder made his mark as part of the group Little Brother, but really reached acclaim when he produced the song "Threat" of Jay-Z's Black Album.

KOBE ISN'T GOING ANYWHERE, DUH!

Kobe Bryant said he plans to stay with the NBA champion Los Angeles Lakers even if he opts out of his contract this summer. Phil Jackson said his health will dictate whether he returns as coach. Bryant met with Jackson and general manager Mitch Kupchak for an individual exit interview today. The finals MVP can terminate the last two years of his contract and become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. He's spent his entire 13-year career with the Lakers, winning four NBA championships. But he could get a new, more lucrative and longer deal if he opted out.

Asked by reporters if he would opt out, Bryant said, "I've been deflecting that all year and I ain't going to stop now." Pressed to explain, he responded, "I'm not going anywhere. I know I ain't going nowhere, so it's just a waste of our breaths just talking about it."

VIDEO: B-REAL FT. DAMIAN MARLEY "FIRE"

Check out B-Real's latest video for his song "FIRE" featuring Damian Jr Gong Marley. B-Real is currently supporting his "Smoke N Mirrors" album (in stores now) on his 'UNITE THE MIC' Tour with Bizzy Bone of Bone Thugs N Harmony. I caught the show out in O.C., and it was definitely dope. Both artists play a set chock ful of classics!

VIDEO: YOUNG DE & XZIBIT FT. MYKESTRO - FIGURE IT OUT

Here it is, the brand new world premier of Young De & Xzibit's "Figure it Out." This track is the second single from the Soul Assassins Intermission album, and it it definitely one of my favorite tracks of the summer.
A few days ago we previewed a behind the scenes look into the making of the video, and today we have the the brand new video directed by Matt Alonzo. NOt only do I think that this is Matt's best video, this is one of my favorite videos of the year!
Shouts out to the homeys for repping Tradition hard!

"I SHOOT PEOPLE" THIS SATURDAY AT TRADITION

“I Shoot People” marks the debut unveiling of Trevor Traynor’s Hip Hop photography, his first step outside of his fine arts background. Trevor has been documenting the culture for the past six years; shooting live concerts, portrait shots, album covers, magazine spreads, and more. Notable artists he’s worked with include Afrika Bambatta, Rakim, KRS-One, Nas, N.E.R.D., Mos Def, Q-Tip, De La Soul, M.I.A., Public Enemy, Wu-Tang Clan and much more. His portfolio is a who’s who of Hip Hop culture, from the underground to the mainstream, from the old school to the new school.

Hip-Hop culture was a big influence on Trevor early on. Trevor elaborates, “When I was a youngling in the late 80’s, I would try to break dance with my cousins in Long Island & sneak sessions on my brother’s turntables. I started emceeing on a Japanese label and opening for acts like Swollen Members and Souls of Mischief while my brother Shel Shock made beats for artist like AG (D.I.T.C), Casual (Hiero), & Dres (Black Sheep). I grew up in the golden years of the 90’s, and now I get to shoot people that inspire me. I am grateful for that.”

"I Shoot People" opens this Saturday at Tradition... See you there!

SHAQ CALLS OUT HONG MAN CHOI

Shaquille O’Neal calls out 7 foot 2inch Korean Colossus, Hong-Man Choi. Choi, who recently dismantled a shell of a man in Jose Canseco at Dream 9, apparently has been targeted by Shaq Diesel for a future MMA bout. Shaq who is known on the basketball court spends his time off season training at Jonathan Burke’s 6 Levels Gym in Orlando. O’Neal matches Hong-Man Choi’s stature at 7′2″ also has been pursuing a fight with UFC legend Chuck Liddell, is certainly a much stiffer opponent for the Techno Goliath. Choi is a Korean Kickboxer and former ssireum wrestler who has fought the likes of Fedor Emelianenko and Mirko Cro Cop will truly be tested by the NBA superstar. Would be fun too watch but it won't happen for a few years!

DJ DRAMA & SOULJA BOY - FOLLOW ME "TWITTER EDITION" (MIXTAPE)

Here's a new DJ Drama and Soulja Boy mixtape called "Follow Me" (The Twitter Edition). This is for all you undercover Soulja Boy fans. Hahaha! Not sure you want too but check it out here.

THE ROOKIE: BLAKE GRIFFIN (EPISODE 2)

My Clippers are very lucky to be getting this guy!

WOMAN THROWS AWAY A MATTRESS WITH $1 MILLION IN IT

WTF! A woman in Israel unknowingly threw away her mom's mattress filled with nearly a million dollars.

CLIPSE FT. KERI HILSON - EYES ON ME (PROD. NEPTUNES)

Here's a new Clipse joint called "Eyes On Me" featuring Keri Hilson and produced by the Neptunes. The track is dope and you know Malice kills it! Check it out here.

MIXTAPE: CASHIS - THE LEAK VOL. 2 "GET READY"

Fresh of the success of his appearance on the remix to Eminem's smash hit "Crack A Bottle," Cashis is back with a brand new mixtape entitled "The Leak Vol. 2 - Get Ready." The mixtape features 11 song of Cashis' signature sound... Look for Cashis on the upcoming Tradition mixtape that is coming soon!

CHASE TAFOYA X SOUL ASSASSINS

Here are a few previews of some pieces that the homey, Chase Tafoya, created for the Soul Assassins Intermission album... As always, Chase's work is dope as hell! He created a different piece for each song on the record, and I cant wait to see them all! Look for a Soul Assassins X Chase Tafoya artshow soon.

TRACES OF COCAINE FOUND IN RED BULL COLA

Officials in Germany have banned the sale of Red Bull Cola after finding traces of Cocaine in it. According to this analysis, they found 0.13 micrograms of cocaine per can. I guess Red Bull does give you wings! Read the whole story here.

LAKERS PARADE!

Lakers did their part in winning the title this year so you know I had to do mine by going to the Lakers Parade. I'm fortunate to say that I have been to all 4 Parades since 2000. Yes I was there when the riots and looting during the Kobe and Shaq era but I only watched and ran like hell a few times too. Today was pretty crazy, there were hundreds of thousands of people and most were pretty hood. You gotta love L.A. Here's some pics of the day, sorry I couldn't post more but it takes too damn long. Enjoy! Oh and to all you Laker Haters all I'm going to say is that I told you so! We are going to be fighting for a repeat next year too.

The soldiers and die hards Rick, Ramzi, Mando and Me. No complaining about getting up in the morning!


First stop the Andy Gump, Amy and her sis Sarah had to go pee or was it #2? Peep the mexican maniac that had a better afro than most black peeps there! Haha


This dude was dead serious, he really swore he was rollin!


Had to show a Lakers bucket!


Transformers Bumble Bee, why bro?


Here they come!


The Lakers Band


PAU our savior!


BYNUM, the future IF he ever gets confident.


The MAGIC man!


Last but not least KOBE, one of the top 3 players EVER to play!


It's a wrap! Clean up time.

VIDEO: BEHIND THE SCENES OF "FIGURE IT OUT" WITH XZIBIT AND YOUNG DE

FIGURE IT OUT: Behind the Scenes VIMBY.com from Eric Thompson on Vimeo.

The Soul Assassins Intermission album drops on Tuesday, and along with it comes the brand new single "Figure It Out" featuring Xzibit, Young De, and Mykestro.
Those of you that went to the last event we did with Soul Assassins heard a preview of this song during Young De's set... The track is straight fire, with production handled by DJ Muggs. Once again, Director Matt Alonzo, turns out another amazing video... I've seen the completed video a few times, and trust me... It is one of the best videos of the year!
I'm looking forward to hearing this track as well as the rest of the Intermission album at the official listening party this Sunday at Tradition.

DIZ GIBRAN - DARK END OF THE STREET

Diz Gibran has been receiving quite a buzz since he dropped his mixtape "Soon You'll Understand" a few months back. Diz is back with a brand new track called "Dark End of the Street."
This track features Diz's laid back flow over another dope production from Moonshine.

VIDEO: XZIBIT ALL ACCESS EPISODE 3

Xzibit recently embarked on a European tour with Jellyroll and Young De. Episode 3 of Xzibit's All Access takes you behind the scenes in Copenhagen. Xzibit talks about his work with Dr. Dre, and Xzibit and Young De perform "Figure it Out" from the upcoming Soul Assassins "Intermission" album.

CURTIS -WAR ANGEL LP (MIXTAPE)

Here's a new 50 Cent mixtape called "War Angel LP." Looks like Curtis is back on the mixtape scene. Check it out here.

TRADITION X SOUL ASSASSINS X FASHAWN X TRANSPHUSION X TREVOR TRAYNOR X XWEDX

The long awaited Soul Assassins album, "Intermission", drops next week and Tradition is proud to host the official listening and album release party on Sunday from 2:00 to 6:00. The album features Bun B, Fashawn, Evidence, Xzibit, and more. DJ Muggs from the legendary Cypress Hill will be on hand mixing up a set of tracks from the "Intermission" album. Up and coming Fresno based MC, Fashwan, is set to perform as well as some unannounced guests from the Soul Assassins family. With DJ Muggs in the house you never know who is gonna get on stage and spit!
Drinks will be provided from Transphusion!
Thanks to everyone that pulled together to make this event happen! See you there!

MIXTAPE: DAZ DILLINGER - DILLINGER & MAKAVELI II TRIBUTE

OG Dogg Pound member and former Death Row producer, Daz, is one of the originators of the West Coast gansta sound. He has worked with everyone from Dre, Snoop, Kurupt, and Tupac.
Daz hooked up with DJ Nik Bean for this tribute album in honor of Pac's Birthday (June 16th). You can download Dillinger & Makaveli II here.

TASH - NEW BIKINI

Remember Tash from the Liks? He's back with a new single called "New Bikini" off his solo album Control Freek thats droppin June 30th. Check it out here.

PHIL JACKSON "X" HAT

With a 99-86 win in Game 5, the Lakers won their 15th NBA championship in franchise history. As you know the series win gave coach Phil Jackson his record 10th title — six with the Bulls and four with the Lakers. Jackson now stands ahead of Red Auerbach who had won nine NBA titles, and he wore a hat at the post-game ceremony to commemorate his career. Check out the Roman Numberal “X” hat representing Phil’s 10 titles. It was yellow with purple stitching to represent the Lakers’ colors and it had the years of each title on the sides of the cap. Phil said his kids made the hat for him and even though he was deflecting the blame to them, there’s no doubt he was boasting by putting it on as soon as he won.

CODE X (LUXURY HYBRID YACHT)

When it comes to eco-friendly and luxury travel or cruise, CodeX can give it to you. Their solar powered yacht is the perfect tool to enjoy your summer holiday. Jump into this yacht and experience luxury cruising as they celebrate as the world’s first high-end product with a synthesis of solar technology and formula 1 engines. With its elegant and sleek design, cruising in ports and coastal areas as well as on open waters with class while caring for the environment is within reach. I just hope that aside from the solar powered engine, this elegant yacht from Code-x will also have another green features like the use of recycled materials on some of its parts or on the yacht’s furniture .

MIXTAPE: KANYE WEST & MALIK YUSEF - "G.O.O.D. MORNING G.O.O.D. NIGHT"

Here's a new mixtape from Kanye West and Malik Yusef called "G.O.O.D. Morning G.O.O.D. Night." This album is fresh and has appearances by Common, John Legend, Bun B and more. You can download it here.

10 DEEP SUMMER 09

10 Deep summer is here! Peep the New Arrivals section and see what we have in the shop for all you 10 Deep fans... We got a few button ups, some shorts, and a bunch of great tees.

CASIO DATABANK WATCHES

We just received these limited edition Databank watches from Casio. The watch comes in four new colors - Pink, Teal, Black, and White. Features include a 25-page databank, 13 languages, calculator, alarm, stopwatch, calender, and 10-year battery. Check the New Arrivals section for detailed pics.

VIDEO: ONE ON ONE WITH TERRY KENNEDY & THE CLIPSE

BCTV X BOSSIP: NIGHT AT THE NOKIA from Broccolicity TV on Vimeo.

Broccoli City hit up the Clipse show Saturday night at Club Nokia in Los Angeles to conduct and interview with Terry Kennedy and The Clipse. The Clipse played a great set, mixing up classics with mixtape tracks and new tracks. Shouts out to the openers Diz Gibran and Pac Div as well.

LAKERS WIN 15TH TITLE

Kobe Bryant has the NBA title he needed most, the one without Shaq. Bryant's seven-year chase of a coveted championship is over. He's got his fourth, and Los Angeles coach Phil Jackson his record 10th, a ring for each finger. One year after failing in the finals, Bryant and the Lakers have redemption, and all the rewards that go with it. They earned their 15th title tonight as Bryant scored 30 points and Pau Gasol added 14 and 15 rebounds in a 99-86 win in Game 5 over the Orlando Magic, who ran out of comebacks.

With Phil Jackson's 10th Championship, he can light his own victory cigar as he passed Red Auerbach for the most championships by a coach in NBA history.

SOUL ASSASSINS "INTERMISSION" LISTENING PARTY

Sunday, June 21st, Tradition will be hosting the official listening party from the long anticipated new Soul Assassins album, The Intermission. You guys know how we like to get down over here, and this party will features DJ sets from DJ Muggs, Drama (from MTV's Fantasty Factory), as well as some special guests that you are just going to have to come down and see for yourself!
Drama is launching is brand new clothing line, Young & Reckless with us, and we will be releasing a limited edition collab tee with them as well. You never know who's gonna show up with Drama, but if Rob doesn't show up he better bring Meaty!
See you there!

VIDEO:ALCHEMIST FT. TWISTA AND MAXWELL - SMILE

Alchemist is one of my favorite producers in the game right now. This new track features Twista and Maxwell over ALC's signature production. Chemical Warfare is due out July 7th...
We still have some sizes in the Alchemist X Diamond Supply tee in stock as well!

RAEKWON FT. MOP & KOOL G RAP - ILL FIGURES

Here's a new track called "Ill Figures" from the upcoming Wu-Tang Chamber Music album. Chamber Music drops on June 30th, and will pair Wu MC’s with 90’s vets over the musical stylings of Brooklyn Soul band The Revelations.

SOUL ASSASSINS "INTERMISSION" IN STORES JUNE 23RD

The long awaited Soul Assassins "Intermission" album is in stores June 23rd... We have some big plans over here to support the homey Muggs and the whole SA crew, and we will let you in on them shortly.
The "Intermission" features Bun B, Prodigy, Xzibit, Young De, Alchemist, Planet Asia, Sick Jacken, and more. Check out the track list below.
Check out the newest leak, "Let Go" featuring Fashawn.

1. Gangsta Shit – Bun B + M1
2. Classical – Sick Jacken + Evidence "
3. Gunshots – Chace Infinite + Alchemist
4. Do It – La Coka Nostra
5. Rep Yo Shit – P.C.P (Sick Jacken + Necro + DJ Muggs)
6. Good Evening LA- Self Scientific
7. Meet Your Maker – Reef The Lost Cause + Outer Space
8. Intermission – RZA + Rev.William Burk + Planet Asia + B-Real
9. Champions ( Remix) – Prodigy + Big Twins
10. Let Go (My Life) – Fashawn
11. Like That Y’All – Planet Asia
12. World We’Re In – Cynic
13. Call It Like I See It – Chace Infinite + Krondon
14. Matchbox – Dust
15 Figure It Out – Young De + Xzibit + Mykestro

INTERVIEW - TREVOR TRAYNOR

We just posted an interview with talented photographer Trevor Traynor in our features section. Trevor is the man behind the upcoming "I Shoot People" photo show which opens next Saturday, June 20th at Tradition. "I Shoot People" is a collection of over 200 photographs from some of Hip Hop's greatest artists.
“I Shoot People” marks the debut unveiling of Trevor Traynor’s Hip Hop photography, his first step outside of his fine arts background. Trevor has been documenting the culture for the past six years; shooting live concerts, portrait shots, album covers, magazine spreads, and more. Notable artists he’s worked with include Afrika Bambatta, Rakim, KRS-One, Nas, N.E.R.D., Mos Def, Q-Tip, De La Soul, M.I.A., Public Enemy, Wu-Tang Clan and much more. His portfolio is a who’s who of Hip Hop culture, from the underground to the mainstream, from the old school to the new school.

Hip-Hop culture was a big influence on Trevor early on. Trevor elaborates, “When I was a youngling in the late 80’s, I would try to break dance with my cousins in Long Island & sneak sessions on my brother’s turntables. I started emceeing on a Japanese label and opening for acts like Swollen Members and Souls of Mischief while my brother Shel Shock made beats for artist like AG (D.I.T.C), Casual (Hiero), & Dres (Black Sheep). I grew up in the golden years of the 90’s, and now I get to shoot people that inspire me. I am grateful for that.”
You can read the interview here.

VIDEO: XZIBIT "ALL ACCESS" EPISODE 1

Xzibit recently did a European tour with the homey, Young De. Xzibit TV takes us behind the scenes and gives us an all access view of the tour. In this first episode X to the Z and crew hit Poland and Greece. Look for Young De rocking a Tradition fitted in his interview!

VIDEO: AKOMPLICE INVADES CHICAGO

VIMBY - Akomplice Invades Chicago

Vimby caught up with Mike and Patrick from Akomplice in Chicago for the release of their "Survival of the Fittest" pack with Leaders. The pack includes a Akomplice X Leaders Swiss Army knife, a co-branded T-shirt, a certificate of authenticity, and a lemon... "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!"

BATMOBILE

Here's the new Maserati Gran Turismo, I need this in my life!

BULLS DERRICK ROSE APOLOGIZES FOR GANG SIGN PHOTO

Chicago Bulls point guard Derrick Rose said he used "extremely poor judgment" in posing for a photo flashing a gang sign. The NBA's Rookie of the Year said in a statement issued through the Bulls that the photo circulating on the Internet was taken at a party he went to while at the University of Memphis. It was "meant as a joke … a bad one, I now admit," Rose said. Rose also said he was "guilty of being young, naive and of using extremely poor judgment," but has never been affiliated with a gang. "I can't speak loudly enough against gang violence, and things that gangs represent," he said. "I sincerely apologize to all my fans for my mistake."

Rose, the overall No. 1 pick in the 2008 NBA draft who led the Bulls to the playoffs, was already under a cloud cast by an NCAA investigation of major violations at Memphis during the only season he played there.

ALCHEMIST FT. TWISTA & MAXWELL - SMILE

What a fresh video! Alchemist's album Chemical Warfare is dropping July 7th. FREE PRODIGY.

D-FISH "OLD MAN TAUGHT SUPERMAN A LESSON"

His legacy as a Los Angeles Laker was sealed in just four tenths of a second in San Antonio back in 2004. His three championship rings already validated his status as an invaluable cog in the clockwork of the Laker dynasty that ushered in the new millennium. Now, Derek Fisher has authored the moment that will define Kobe Bryant’s legacy and Phil Jackson’s announcement as the greatest coach in the history of the NBA. With two flicks of his left wrist, two timely three point baskets will forever make Laker fans think of #2 as #1 in their hearts. The 2009 NBA Finals are not yet over, but Derek Fisher has called “checkmate” against the Orlando Magic.

4th Quarter 3-pointer to tie

OT 3-pointer

CLIPSE FT. PHARRELL - I'M GOOD

Here's a new Clipse joint called "I'm Good" featuring Pharrell. This a summer joint for sure. If your a Clipse fan they are performing at Club Nokia in downtown L.A tomorrow night. See you there.

PARODY: KOBE, LEBRON & LIL DEZ PUPPETS

Please watch this and listen closely because its hilarious!

OAKS CHRISTIAN'S MONTANA COMMITS TO WASHINGTON

Nick Montana, the son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Montana, has given an oral commitment to the University of Washington. Montana, who is listed at 6-feet-1, 180 pounds, is ranked the No. 13 quarterback in the class of 2010 by Scout.com and gives new Washington coach Steve Sarkisian a potential program-changing quarterback. Montana threw for 33 touchdowns and seven interceptions as a junior and possesses many of the same skills as his famous father.

Montana met Sarkisian when he was an assistant at USC and that relationship cultivated when Sarkisian took the Washington job in January. The Huskies are coming off an 0-12 season and a tumultuous tenure of Tyrone Willingham. He chose the Huskies over Notre Dame, Alabama, Georgia, LSU, Arizona State and Ohio State among others.

TRADITION WHIPS

Just another day before closing at Tradition. 2 Porshe's, 1 Ferrari, and Prius. Only in Westlake Village!

VIDEO: THE ROOKIE - BLAKE GRIFFIN

I'm actually proud to say that this will be my Clippers pick this year. Blake is can shoot it too!

24SEVEN HABILIMENTS "LAKERS CHAMPIONSHIP" TEE

We just got a new shipment of Championship Lakers tees from new brand 24seven Habiliments. Yes I did say Championship because the Lakers will win no doubt. "We Grind Like Champions 24/7." Stop by Tradition asap, we have the biggest and hottest selection of Lakers tees in California! See you at the Lakers Parade. Phone orders are available.

YEEZY'S B-DAY CAKE!

You may have seen these images floating around the net these past few days but here's pics of Kanye's recent birthday cake replication of his highly publicized Air Yeezy. Pretty dope how it came out though.

NO LABEL WATCHES

We just got a new shipment of watches from No Label. These watches come in a variety of colors, and are a great alternative to G-Shocks. They have alarm clock, timer, bright blue backlight and a single mold design. Stand out from the pack with these awesome new watches!
Check out detailed pics in our new arrivals section.

NATHAN SAWAYA: LEGO BRICK ARTIST

Some artists use paint, others bronze but for Nathan Sawaya he chooses to build his awe-inspiring art out of toy building blocks. LEGO® bricks to be exact.With more than 1.5 million colored bricks in his New York studio, Sawaya’s sculptures take many forms. Sawaya’s art is currently touring North American museums in a show titled, The Art of the Brick. It’s the only exhibition focusing exclusively on LEGO as an art medium. The creations, constructed from nearly one million pieces, were built from standard bricks beginning as early as 2002. More information on the tour, dates and locations can be found here. A full-time freelance artist, Sawaya accepts commissions from individuals, corporations, and … well just about anyone with a good idea! He’s also available to design and build custom creations at events, photo shoots and conventions. So let Sawaya know what you have in mind, there are literally no limits to what he can create out of LEGO.

PHARRELL GETS TATTOOS REMOVED

There has been alot of speculation for over a month now but its true, Pharrell Williams, the lead singer of N.E.R.D., is no longer enamored with his tattoos and the artist has started to have his body art removed. The rapper recently underwent laser surgery to have the tattoos burned out if his skin. Pharrell recently posted a picture of his bandaged arms after the surgery took place. "Laser treatment b**ches! Extra crispy. See, no skin graft here, just pure laser pain,” Pharrell said. “This is our own version of Mythbusters! Laser is the new primer."

Initially, Williams stated that he was going to attempt to cultivate new skin cells and graft the new tissue over his tattoos. In early 2008, he said, "It's going to be pricey, but f**k it, it's worth it. I got fire on my arms! I'm a grown man! There's an institute called the Wake Forest Institute in North Carolina for Regenerative Skin Treatment. It's basically like getting a skin graft, but you're not taking skin from your ass or your legs. These guys actually grow the skin for you.”

INTERVIEW: PATRICK MARTINEZ IN FORMATMAG

Our good friend and very talented artist, Patrick Martinez, just linked up with FormatMag for an interview. Alot of you saw the New Works show Patrick did with Eyeone at Tradition a few months ago... Patrick is on his grind, and you are going to see alot more from him in the future...
You can read the interview here.

Like so many kids growing up in the Pasadena Valley in the early ’90s, Patrick Martinez‘ formative years were shaped by bumping hip-hop in beat up Cutlasses and b-boy movies like Wildstyle and Style Wars. While graffiti is still an essential influence on Patrick’s artistic expressions, he has traded in his Montana cans for Windsor Newton University brushes. Influenced by city life and urban decay, Patrick seeks to bring supreme beauty to things that we might find flawed or broken.

VIDEO: EMINEM FT. 50 CENT & DR. DRE - CRACK A BOTTLE

Here's the full video of Eminem's version of "Crack a Bottle." I was expecting a cameo from Bruno in there somewhere, so I was a little disappointed.

CHACE INFINITE - KNOW IT'S MY YEAR

Soul Assassins & Tradition present "The Take Over" - Self Scientific Live from Soul Assassins Television on Vimeo.

Chace Infinite is putting together a mixtape of tracks over beats that his partner in Self Scientific, DJ Khalil, produced for other artists called I Would Have Killed This. Here's the first leak called "Know It's My Year," which is over the beat to The Clipse's "Kinda Like a Big Deal."
As a bonus, I have reposted the footage of Self Scientific's performance at The Takeover at Tradition.

WORST RAP BATTLE EVER

One of our reader's asked us to blog "The Worst Rap Battle Ever." This footage is from what looks like a public access TV show, and the title really says it all. I don't know what's worse... The rapping or the host with his arms around one of the judges the whole time!

CROOKS FOR LIFE "LITERALLY"

The homie Brian A.K.A Better Bee stopped by the shop this past weekend and showed off his new Crooks and Castles Medusa tattoo. The tattoo came out dope and the red eyes were a sick addition. Crooks needs to send him some tees for this one. Come on people, who wants to put the Tradition Crest of their body?

JUELZ SANTANA & LIL WAYNE - GAME FACE II (MIXTAPE)

Here's the much anticipated second mixtape from Juelz and Weezy called "Game Face II." These two dudes make a dope duo, don't sleep on this mixtape. You can download it here.

SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE

Our buddy, Ghandi, came by today stunting with the Louis Vuitton "Bindi" glasses. Bui thought he could stunt, but Ghandi has been putting him to shame recently... First he pulls up in a brand new ride and now he's shitting on people with his new LV's!

*I changed the title of this post because of a suggestion in our comments section!

ALCHEMIST FT. EMINEM - CHEMICAL WARFARE

Alchemist has been Eminem's DJ for the last few years that he has been touring. Alchemist is one of my favorite producers, and it's good to see him link up with someone as big as Em for his own record. Check out "Chemical Warfare" featuring Eminem from Al's album of the same name.
Chemical Warfare is due out July 7th.

VIDEO: RAEKWON SPEAKS ON NEW MIXTAPES

Raekwon is gearing up for the release of his long overdue follow up to OB4CL, which is due out August 11th. He has recently released a few mixtapes to hold all of his fans over until that release date...

MOS DEF - THE UNDERGROUND ALBUM

Alex at RubyHornet posted this collection of vintage Mos Def tracks called The Underground Album. This album features such classics as "Respiration", "Universal Magentic", "Little Brother", and more.
Mos Def's The Ecstatic drops tomorrow, June 9th.

Mos Def is one my true inspirations and to celebrate the release of his new LP, we’re doing different things all week. Today I posted some very vintage Mos Def that I happened upon at Dr. Wax on the southside of Chicago more than a decade ago. It’s definitely something for the Mos Def fan.

L.A TO HOST NBA ALL-STAR GAME IN 2011

The NBA All-Stars are coming back to a city filled with stars. The league is bringing its All-Star Game and weekend-long festivities to Los Angeles for a record fifth time in 2011, continuing a trend of taking its midwinter break in a warm weather city. Commissioner David Stern made the announcement Sunday before Game 2 of the NBA Finals between the Lakers and Orlando Magic.The 60th game will be played Feb. 20 at Staples Center, also the site of the 2004 game.

"For one week, L.A. will become the basketball capital of the world," Stern said. "It is always that way at All-Star, and it's one of my favorite events because not only does the world focus on us, but our legends come in and it becomes part of a family reunion, and this is a big deal for us."

CASSIE SPEAKS ON LEAKED NUDE PHOTOS

JAY-Z - DOA (DEATH OF AUTO-TUNE)

Here's a new Jay-Z joint called "Death Of Auto-Tune," Jay goes hard at the the peeps using that annoying Auto-Tune. Kanye and No I.D produced this track. Its Funny how Kanye produced this and he made a whole Autotune album. I wonder if Lil Wayne and T-Pain will bump this track? Check it out here.

REAL "HOOD" NEWS

Shout out to the homey Geezy for finding this one. Hilarious!

TOFER

Yesterday I rolled over to see the homey Tofer at his studio. Tofer Chin is known for his dope eggman figures but might be best known for his diorama at the Hundreds LA store. Those of us who know him also know is is an incredible artist and a his paintings have mastered the 3D effect. His latest must have is the Tofer Vs. Han Cholo: Egg On a Rope chain, limited to only 250 pieces. I managed to get myself one as a gift and you can get yours here. Here's some pictures of Tofer's spot and his work, be sure to look out for all the upcoming surprises Tofer has up his sleeve.

LEBRON X LIL DEZ MUPPETS

Looks like Nike hasn't given up marketing Lebron for the finals. Pretty Funny.

NEW LIL WAYNE - KOBE BRYANT

You saw Kobe drop 40 on the Magic last night in game 1 in the Finals, its only fitting for Lil Wayne to drop a new joint called "Kobe Bryant." The song is so dope, Weezy even shouts out Goldstein, thats the guy you see courtside at Lakers, Clippers and other teams games all season long. As you know I'm the biggest Kobe Bryant fan and If you love Kobe as much as me you have to download this track here.

DEREK ALBECK FOR VANS

Vans enlisted a group of artists, including our good friend Derek Albeck, to create logos for their "Off The Wall" Logo competition.
Other artists include Tradition favorites Marco Zamora and Dennis Mcnett, as well as Taka Hayashi, Eric Elms, Parra, Steve Caballero, Geoff Rowley, Michael Sieben and many more.
You can vote for your favorite artist here.

DONT FORGET!

VIDEO: KANYE WEST FT. RIHANNA - "PARANOID"

KANYE WEST "PARANOID" feat: RIHANNA Dir: NABIL from nabil elderkin on Vimeo.

Here's the brand new video for Kanye's song "Paranoid" from his album 808's & Heartbreak. The video stars Rihanna.

MOS DEF FT. TALIB KWELI - HISTORY (PROD. BY J. DILLA)

Here's a new track from Mos Def's upcoming album, The Ecstatic, called "History." This track was produced by the late great J. Dilla and features Talib Kweli. This is one of the best Mos Def tracks that I have heard in a minute.
The Ecstatic drops next Tuesday.

INTERVIEW: RADIO SILENCE

I recently did an interview with Anthony Pappalardo, one of the authors of Radio Silence for the current issue of Vapors Magazine. You can read the entire unedited interview in the features section of our website.

Hardcore music reared it’s ugly head after punk rock hit in the late 1970’s. Hardcore had a new sound, a new look, and a new aggression that swept over the nation, with hundreds of bands emerging in cities all over the United States and beyond. Each city had their own crop of bands, their own ‘zines, their own labels, and most importantly their own scene.
Radio Silence is a visual history of American hardcore that documents the words and images of the pre-Internet era where this community built on do-it-yourself ethics thrived. I sat down with one of the authors, Anthony Pappalardo.

INTERVIEW: ESTEVAN ORIOL ON XWEDX

The homeys over at XWEDX just posted an in depth interview with famed photographer Estevan Oriol. You can read the interview here.

I’ve been in the middle of shoot-outs before, and I definitely try not to take pictures of that cause I don’t like to have photos that incriminate anybody, so I just would put the camera down...
I got love in the hood! Yeah, so nothing was directed at me ever. But I was photographing in the middle of a neighborhood and a guy from another neighborhood came by and they ended up shooting eachother, but I didn’t take any pictures, and they were wondering why, because the clients I was taking the pictures for sort of had a gangster element, and I just told them that I didn’t want to be the guy holding onto photos that incriminate nobody.

BURNING FIGHT

I just receive my copy of Burning Fight in the mail today with a personal note from the author Brian Patterson. Burning Fight is a book about the nineties hardcore scene, and features interviews with my band Strife (a 15 page spread), as well as Undertow, Unbroken, Endpoint, Mouthpiece, Integrity, Earth Crisis, Los Crudos, and more.
This is the definitive book on nineties hardcore, and it is definitely worth reading. You can order a copy here.

BUY ONE GET ONE HALF OFF!

GAME TIME TONIGHT "FINALS"

Go Lakers and don't forget to stop by Tradition to get the hottest Lakers tees anywhere!

MIXTAPE: TERRY URBAN - SOUTHERNGOLD

Terry Urban just released a new mixtape with Gold Coin Clothing called Southerngold. The mixtape mixes Southern vocals over Santigold samples and tracks, and features Lil' Wayner, Outkast, Rick Ross, Young Jeezy, and more. You can download the mixtape here.
Terry Urban ran into a little trouble from Santigold's label regarding the mixtape, which you can read about below.

As many of you know, I’ve been preparing to releasing an exciting mixtape this summer called Southerngold. Basically, me mixing my favorite Southern rap vocals over remixed samples of my favorite Santigold influenced samples and tracks.

However, as I am about to release my mix on the internet tonight… literally, I am sitting at my desk in Brooklyn uploading the mix to YouSendIt.com, I get a cease and desist from lawyers at Santigold’s label, Downtown Records.

I’m not selling this, I’m not making a dime. I’m encouraging everyone to BUY Santigold’s album and I’m helping to expand her fan base to new markets. In addition, none of these songs are as they would appear on her actual album. EVERYTHING is remixed and redone so there is no competition with her actual in-stores album… It’s ironic that Downtown Records biggest group was signed due to a project with similar ambitions, Gnarls Barkley’s Danger Mouse with The Grey Album.

Sincerely,
Terry Urban

VIDEO: THE CLIPSE ON VIMBY

VIMBY - The Clipse

Vimby caught up with The Clipse at their show last month at Webster Hall in New York. The Clipse talked about their history as well as their upcoming album 'Til The Casket Drops.
Aside from being amazing rappers, The Clipse are behind the brand new clothing line Play Cloths which is selling out in the best boutiques across the world.

GHOSTFACE, AZ, & INSPECTAH DECK - HARBOR MASTERS

Here some new Wu for all of you Wu heads out there... AZ has been getting active with the Clan. He made an appearance on "Whips and Kicks" on Rae's last mixtape, and now AZ hooked up with Ghostface and the Inspectah for a new track called "Harbor Masters."
As a bonus, you can check out "Forever" from Ghostface as well.

EMINEM TALKS ABOUT MTV STUNT

Three days ago at the MTV Movie Awards, Sacha Baron Cohen caused a firestorm as “Bruno” when he landed ass first on Eminem. Many speculated for the days whether the stunt was staged or real, with everyone speaking except the man himself. Breaking his silence, Em spoke exclusively to Rap Radar about the entire “ordeal”.

RR: Can you clear up the Bruno stunt at the MTV Awards? Was it staged or planned?

Sacha called me when we were in Europe and he had an idea to do something outrageous at the Movie Awards. I’m a big fan of his work so I agreed to get involved with the gag.

RR: Was it executed the way you agreed to, and if not, do you hold MTV or Sacha responsible and will you take any kind of action?

I’m thrilled that we pulled this off better than we rehearsed it. It had so many people going “nuts” so to speak. Everyone was blowing me up about it.

RR: After you left the ceremony, where did you go?

After the ceremony I went back to my hotel and laughed uncontrollably for about 3 hours. Especially after I saw it on air.

RR: There is a report today that your hotel room was robbed and thieves got 60K and your laptop while you were at ceremony. Is that true and if so what would someone find on your computer?

The only thing was that I lost a Nike watch that we were looking for. The rest it is made-up like half the other stuff out there.

RR: How do you think the show with Jay-Z went and how did it feel performing “Renegade” again?

I love performing with Jay. It’s the third time we’ve done the song together live and it’s always fun. It was an honor to share the stage with him again and to work with his band.

LIL WAYNE - WHIP IT LIKE A SLAVE

You know we always gotta give you new Lil Wayne. Here's a new Weezy joint called "Whip It Like A Slave." Not bad but I've heard better from Weezy.

ORLANDO'S PIETRUS WON'T WEAR KOBE HYPERDUNKS IN THE FINALS

Orlando Magic guard Mickael Pietrus doesn't want to be in Kobe Bryant's shoes for the NBA Finals literally. Pietrus said he will not use the Bryant-endorsed Hyperdunk sneakers he has worn all season long in the championship series against the Los Angeles Lakers.

"I have some at my house, but I'm going to play with Michael Jordan shoes," Pietrus said.
Pietrus, who helped defend Cleveland star LeBron James in the East finals, cautions anyone who thinks he can stop Kobe cold. "The only thing I can do is try to minimize his touches in the fourth quarter," Pietrus said. "He's a tremendous player and those guys you can not stop them. So maybe I can say, 'Hey, stop, Kobe! Yo! Stop!' Maybe that's the only way I can stop him. 'Stop for a minute!'"

WARREN G - GIGOLOS GET LONELY 2

The true west coast OG, Warren G, is back with a dope new single "Gigolos Get Lonely 2." If you are a west coast hip hop head you know this sample is from K-Dee's Gigolos Get Lonely. If you're over 30 then you may have heard the true originator of this track by Morris Day and the Time. This is a perfect smooth summer track, check it out here.

MIXTAPE: MARCO POLO BLENDS

Here is a new mixtape called Marco Polo Blends which features a collection of tracks from some of your favorite MC's over Marco Polo beats. Everyone from Jay-Z, 50, 'Pac, Common, The Clipse, and more. You can download the mixtape here.
Marco Polo & Torae's album, Double Barrel, dropped today.

MOST VALUABLE PUPPETS KOBE X LEBRON - LATEST COMMERCIALS

Here's the 2 latest commercials, better late than never. Sorry Lebron!

RETNA & MAC AT MID CITY ARTS

This Sunday, Mid City Arts is hosting a live painting event and exhibit opening featuring two of Los Angeles’ most respected graffiti artists: Retna and The Mac. The opening event takes place Sunday June 7th from 12pm to 6pm.
The new exhibit from Retna and The Mac will featured a large-scale indoor mural installation in addition to smaller pieces. Retna says that the show “will be representative of the remembrance of growing up as a youth.”

KID WITH PROGERIA FREESTYLES THEN GOES AT ALL THE HATERS

You know I had to post this. I only have one thing to say, if you laugh at this you are going to Hell. Watch the whole thing... At the end he goes at all the haters. Dude is pretty cool.

VIDEO: JAY-Z X EMINEM "RENEGADE"

Last night, Jay-Z and Eminem performed at the Wiltern in Los Angeles to promote the upcoming game DJ Hero. Tickets were virtually impossible to get, so unfortunately I couldn't make it out. Check out this video of Jay and Em performing Renegade.
You can check out some photos from the show here.

DRAKE FT. LIL WAYNE & YOUNG JEEZY - I'M GOING IN

You know we always give you that new s@#t, here's Drake's new track "I'm Going In" featuring Weezy and Jeezy. Drake has been all over the map lately and has even had time to be spotted hooking up with Rihanna. Props to Drake, you can download it here.

LA COKA NOSTRA FT. BUN B - CHOOSE YOUR SIDE

Peep this new track from La Coka Nostra called "Choose Your Side" featuring Bun B and produced by Alchemist. This joint is dope and Alchemist made another classic track. Check it out here.

BLOODBATH X FLY SOCIETY

The Bloodbath X Fly Society tee officially releases today. Check the new arrivals section for detailed pics, and stop by the shop and scoop one up before they are gone!

DAVE WHITE X KID ROBOT

UK painter, Dave White, recently linked up with Kid Robot to produce the SGT. Robot toy. The toy is available in 2 colors and is limited to only 600 pieces of each.
Dave will be visiting Kidrobot USA for the pre release events and in store signings as follows....
Kidrobot NYC Wednesday 3rd June 6pm - 8pm 118 Prince St (at Wooster), New York 212 966 6688
Kidrobot Miami Thursday 4th June 6pm - 8pm 638 Collins Ave, South Beach, Miami 305 673 5807

PHOTOS: CRO MAGS AT CHAIN REACTION

Last night we caught the Cro Mags at Chain Reaction in Anaheim with Cruel Hand and Outbreak. The Cro mags have been playing for over 20 years, and this line up is one of the best that I have seen. The band features Craig Ahead (SOIA/Straight Ahead) and AJ (Leeway) alongside founding members John Joseph and Mackie.
They tore through a selection of all of their classics and even threw in two Bad Brains covers for good measure. Every band got a great response including the openers...
The Cro Mags will be playing The Key Club in Hollywood on Tuesday... See ya there!




Photos by Dan Rawe

VIDEO: ONE ON ONE WITH DIZ GIBRAN

BCTV: ONE ON ONE WITH DIZ GIBRAN from Broccolicity TV on Vimeo.

Broccoli City caught up with Diz Gibran at the release party for the upcoming Dilla album Jay Stay Paid. Diz talk about his latest mixtape Soon You Will Understand, as well as a few things he has coming up in the future.

MIXTAPE: THE BEST OF DJ QUICK

Matthew Africa put together a mixtape featuring 39 tracks from West Coast icon DJ Quick. Quick is one of the best Rapper/Producers in the game...

This is what Matthew Africa had to say...

I made this mix because people sleep on DJ Quik. Maybe they’ve forgotten or maybe they never understood, but people don’t get the breadth or depth of his talent.

You can download the mixtape here.

VIDEO: AKOMPLICE SEASON 10

We have had Season 10 from Akomplice for about a week now, but the official release date is this Friday, June 5th. Peep the video for their summer season.

I SHOOT PEOPLE

Trevor Traynor was born in New York in May of 1979. He studied at the University of Colorado in Boulder and after graduating in 2002 he explored the globe with a Hasselblad. For the next four years Trevor continued to create projects through his travels while doing editorial work in New York and several Art Fairs with Rx gallery in San Francisco. He currently lives and works in San Francisco and New York.

Traynor’s photographs have been exhibited in Medellin, Paris, Santa Fe, New York, San Diego, Denver, and San Francisco. His work has been featured in many publications including: Chicago Tribune, New York magazine, Men’s Fitness, SF Guardian, URB magazine, Merge magazine (Sweden), Lodown magazine (Germany), and Kerb Journal (Australia). His work is part of several collections; including Swinerton and Pfizer. He has also been recognized in competitions; including “industrial photographer of the year” at the 1st International Photography Awards, & Honorable mention at the International Adobe Photoshop competition.

I Shoot People opens June 20th at Tradition, and will feature over 200 photographs!

CHARLES BARKLEY CALLS OUT TNT PRODUCER

This was too funny, apparently Barkley was upset he wasn't working the finals and calls his producer a p@#*y!

CASSIDY, BIG MIKE & DJ THORO - APPLY PRESSURE (MIXTAPE) HOSTED BY CARMELO ANTHONY

Here's a new Cassidy mixtape called "Apply Pressure" hosted by Denver Nuggets star Carmelo Anthony. If your a Cassidy fan your not going to be disappointed. You can download it here.

FLY SOCIETY X BLOODBATH

We showed you preview images of the Bloodbath X Fly Society tee a while back, and now the release date is upon us. The tee comes in black and white, and features a full color front print. The Fly Society logo is embroidered on one sleeve, and the Bloodbath key logo is embroidered on the other. This is one of my favorite tees that Bloodbath has released... Don't miss out!
Check out detailed photos in our new arrivals section.

DISTURBING: MAN ON TOP OF TRAIN GETS ACCIDENTALLY ELECTROCUTED

This disturbing footage took place in India.

LAKERS VS MAGIC (NBA FINALS)

For those wondering how the Lakers will beat the Magic in the finals but couldn't beat them in the regular season, here's a couple of observations about those two regular-season games, which the Magic won 106-103 in Orlando on Dec. 20 and 109-103 in Los Angeles on Jan. 16.

One, Jameer Nelson was the leading scorer for Orlando in both games, torching the Lakers for a total of 55 points. He was another one of those quick point guards who have torn up L.A. throughout the season. But Nelson suffered a season-ending shoulder injury in February and won't be around to exploit the Lakers' biggest weakness. Midseason pickup Rafer Alston has had some effective games during the playoffs, but he won't lead the Magic in scoring this series.

Two, the Magic shot 40 percent or better on 3-pointers in both games, exceeding even their regular-season average of 38 percent. And they will have good shooting nights in the Finals. But will they have four of them?

The first is the Stage Fright Factor, the adjustment to playing in the Finals for the first time, as all of the Magic's top players will be doing. They'll see that this is not just another game. It will hit them the moment they step into the arena, with the banners and bunting hanging everywhere, the giant stickers on the court, the multitude of cameras affixed to the backboards, the reporters swarming around, the NBA Entertainment cameras in their faces from the breakfast table to the trainer's room.

GHOSTFACE & RAEKWON - MY PIANO

Here's a track off of the upcoming Marco Polo Blends mixtape featuring Ghostface and Raekwon. The mixtape features artist of Marco Polo instrumentals, and this track "My Piano" utilizes the instrumental from Polo's "Get Busy."