Born in St. Thomas, Jamaica, raised in Toronto and based between T-Dot and NYC, Melodic Yoza has a sound that takes equal parts from reggae, soul and hip-hop. Perhaps you’ve caught his tune “Ride On Natty,” which was featured on an episode of Jersey Shore recently.
We take a short detour at Mixtape Mondays today to bring you a world premiere from three heavy-hitting selectors in the game, each holding it down for the ladies and dancehall in a big way. London, Toronto and Jamaica are the focus here, as well as a final salute to summer. Too blessed to be stressed pon a Monday…
This week we’re celebrating two of the biggest Caribbean events of the year: the 50th anniversary of independence Jamaican Independence and Caribana, North America’s largest annual street festival. What better way to tie the two together than a classic (if little known) rap song and video about playing the popular Jamaican game of Ludi by two West Indian rappers from Toronto? Okayplayer editor Eddie STATS breaks it all down, along with his own personal Ludi history.
Remember when hip hop was fun? Apparently T-Dot general Kardinal Offishall does, as best portrayed in his new video for “Mr. Parker” featuring Shi Wisdom. Produced by Nottz Raw from their collaborative Allow Me To Reintroduce Myself or A.M.T.R.I.M project, the Jackson 5-sampled production touches on growing up in a struggling education system where “educators” like Mr. Parker aren’t exactly helping the cause… This is a lighthearted hip hop joint, delivering a positive message to the youths dem. If you need something a little more offishall, just pree his freestyle over the “Mercy” beat. Also, if you’re planning to attend this years Caribana in Toronto, do yourself a solid and check out our recent conversation with Kardi regarding the 6 must-do events here.