How ironic given that last summer, Lil Wayne kicked off his "America's Most Wanted Music Festival" in right here in NEPA at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain. Anyways, enjoy (NOTE: NOT CLEAN VERSION!).
Big thanks to my homie DJ Woogie for putting me up on this.
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Showing posts with label montage mountain. Show all posts
Showing posts with label montage mountain. Show all posts
1.14.2010
AAR, Sum 41, WTK, Hey Monday, The Cab highlight Vans Warped Tour 2010 Lineup
8.03.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Young Jeezy Works On New LP, Keeps In Touch w/ T.I.
As politically active as Young Jeezy was last fall, it only made sense that last week, he felt right at home in what the pundits called, “The Ground Zero of the Presidential Election.”
“I appreciate Scranton for standing behind (President Obama),” Jeezy told me backstage at the first stop on the “America’s Most Wanted Music Festival.” Obama won both Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties. “We here now, we’re trying to make the world a better place.”
The Atlanta-rapper is both realistic and patient – he believes it’ll take President Obama two terms to fix the various big ticket issues our country faces. But he also recognizes the other half of the winning ticket.
“Joe Biden! What up homie!” he cheerfully shouted when I reminded him that Vice President Biden is from the Electric City.
The conversation quickly turned to music, as Jeezy is working on his fourth studio LP: Thug Motivation 103. No release date is set – and the rapper is rather evasive on details. Jeezy did tell me that fans can expect, “a little bit of everything,” referring to a conglomerate of material that people grew accustomed to between Thug Motivation 101 and The Recession.
“Everything still pretty much in the can right now,” Jeezy revealed. “It’s gonna be a very special album, but at the same time, the streets gonna love this, Scranton are gonna love this, people are gonna love this album.”
Still, Jeezy would not as much as divulge any type of timeline for the record’s release, simply stating that he’ll drop it once it’s finished. You would think that if it’s already in production, it’ll be released by the time fellow Atlanta rapper T.I. leaves jail. Young Jeezy told me that through their respective camps he keeps in touch with T.I.P.
“He’s gotta pay his debt to society and get back on it. We here for him though.”
“I appreciate Scranton for standing behind (President Obama),” Jeezy told me backstage at the first stop on the “America’s Most Wanted Music Festival.” Obama won both Lackawanna and Luzerne Counties. “We here now, we’re trying to make the world a better place.”
The Atlanta-rapper is both realistic and patient – he believes it’ll take President Obama two terms to fix the various big ticket issues our country faces. But he also recognizes the other half of the winning ticket.
“Joe Biden! What up homie!” he cheerfully shouted when I reminded him that Vice President Biden is from the Electric City.
The conversation quickly turned to music, as Jeezy is working on his fourth studio LP: Thug Motivation 103. No release date is set – and the rapper is rather evasive on details. Jeezy did tell me that fans can expect, “a little bit of everything,” referring to a conglomerate of material that people grew accustomed to between Thug Motivation 101 and The Recession.
“Everything still pretty much in the can right now,” Jeezy revealed. “It’s gonna be a very special album, but at the same time, the streets gonna love this, Scranton are gonna love this, people are gonna love this album.”
Still, Jeezy would not as much as divulge any type of timeline for the record’s release, simply stating that he’ll drop it once it’s finished. You would think that if it’s already in production, it’ll be released by the time fellow Atlanta rapper T.I. leaves jail. Young Jeezy told me that through their respective camps he keeps in touch with T.I.P.
“He’s gotta pay his debt to society and get back on it. We here for him though.”
EXCLUSIVE: MTV News' Sway Calloway on America's Most Wanted Tour
Don’t necessarily call it a homecoming to hip-hop, but for MTV News reporter Sway Calloway, it sure felt good to cover the America’s Most Wanted Music Festival’s first date in Scranton, PA.
“I’ve been on the road doing a lot of stuff with MTV,” explained Calloway – mentioning the Michael Jackson memorial as well as numerous political events. “I really wanted to come back to the core of how I got in this game, and that’s through rap, hip-hop music.”
Producers and MTV News beat reporter Shaheem Reid joined Calloway to cover the event. The team from MTV arrived on Sunday and caught Lil Wayne’s dress rehearsal. By all accounts, it seemed as if the crowd at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain would be in for a special show. But the event impressed Calloway on other levels as well.
“Especially in this time of economic crisis, people said you can’t put together a tour,” said Sway. “Young Money Records, Lil Wayne, stuck their neck out there and they got truly America’s most wanted.”
The lineup is something to marvel at – the front of the bill includes Jeremih (top 10 hit in “Birthday Sex”) and Pleasure P, formerly of Pretty Ricky. Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em takes the stage next, followed by Young Jeezy and Wayne – who brings his entire Young Mula crew for the ride. At least for now, that will be sans Drake, who reinjured an already torn ACL on Friday in Camden, NJ. The R&B singer returned to his home of Toronto, where he will undergo surgery this week.
But with a tour this deep, almost any hit to the card is sustainable, especially when you have one of your opening acts tossing out thousands of dollars to the crowd.
“I’ve seen that gimmick over the years a thousand times,” Sway noted of Soulja’s parting act. While performing “Turn My Swag On,” the 19 year-old reached in to his pocket and began tossing out Ben Franklin’s to the crowd as if he was shooting free throws in a gym. “Soulja Boy is the first person I’ve personally witnessed to throw out real, $100 bills, continuously for at least six minutes.”
The MTV reporter estimated that Soulja gave “at least $5,000” to the fans.
“I talked to people who walked away with a couple hundred dollars,” he said. “(Soulja Boy) paid them, to come see him.”
Certainly no one needed any more incentive to show up. Over 12,000 people entered Montage Mountain for the event – a solid figure in an area that has generally struggled to support hip-hop and rhythmic shows. Again, just another testament to the lineup put forth by Wayne. The “maturity” of the acts also impressed Calloway. While we spoke, Young Jeezy performed behind us, backed by a 9-piece band.
“Music is a universal communicator,” said Sway. “You see people right now, partying together, to one beat… and it’s a great venue.”
“I’ve been on the road doing a lot of stuff with MTV,” explained Calloway – mentioning the Michael Jackson memorial as well as numerous political events. “I really wanted to come back to the core of how I got in this game, and that’s through rap, hip-hop music.”
Producers and MTV News beat reporter Shaheem Reid joined Calloway to cover the event. The team from MTV arrived on Sunday and caught Lil Wayne’s dress rehearsal. By all accounts, it seemed as if the crowd at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain would be in for a special show. But the event impressed Calloway on other levels as well.
“Especially in this time of economic crisis, people said you can’t put together a tour,” said Sway. “Young Money Records, Lil Wayne, stuck their neck out there and they got truly America’s most wanted.”
The lineup is something to marvel at – the front of the bill includes Jeremih (top 10 hit in “Birthday Sex”) and Pleasure P, formerly of Pretty Ricky. Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em takes the stage next, followed by Young Jeezy and Wayne – who brings his entire Young Mula crew for the ride. At least for now, that will be sans Drake, who reinjured an already torn ACL on Friday in Camden, NJ. The R&B singer returned to his home of Toronto, where he will undergo surgery this week.
But with a tour this deep, almost any hit to the card is sustainable, especially when you have one of your opening acts tossing out thousands of dollars to the crowd.
“I’ve seen that gimmick over the years a thousand times,” Sway noted of Soulja’s parting act. While performing “Turn My Swag On,” the 19 year-old reached in to his pocket and began tossing out Ben Franklin’s to the crowd as if he was shooting free throws in a gym. “Soulja Boy is the first person I’ve personally witnessed to throw out real, $100 bills, continuously for at least six minutes.”
The MTV reporter estimated that Soulja gave “at least $5,000” to the fans.
“I talked to people who walked away with a couple hundred dollars,” he said. “(Soulja Boy) paid them, to come see him.”
Certainly no one needed any more incentive to show up. Over 12,000 people entered Montage Mountain for the event – a solid figure in an area that has generally struggled to support hip-hop and rhythmic shows. Again, just another testament to the lineup put forth by Wayne. The “maturity” of the acts also impressed Calloway. While we spoke, Young Jeezy performed behind us, backed by a 9-piece band.
“Music is a universal communicator,” said Sway. “You see people right now, partying together, to one beat… and it’s a great venue.”
7.31.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Jeremih's Learning Experience
R&B newcomer Jeremih learned an important lesson on his first day of touring: sometimes, you need to roll with the punches.
“The keyboard should’ve been here,” he explained while backstage at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain. “It’s on its way; it was 15 pounds over capacity for the plane limit.”
But at least the singer himself made it. Jeremih flew to Scranton from El Paso, TX – touching down in NEPA around 4:30. He quickly drove to the venue, and snuck in a quick sound check before doors were opened to the public. I spoke with him just past 6 p.m., approximately 40 minutes later he hit the stage to croon for 15 minutes, ending with the up-tempo version of his Top 10 hit, “Birthday Sex.”
But if you’re headed to another stop on the America’s Most Wanted Music Festival, don’t assume that you’ll hear that particular cut.
“It all depends on what people are really feelin’,” said Jeremih. “It was up to me, I’d perform both of ‘em.”
After consulting with myself and Kidd Kraddick In The Morning producer Adam, Jeremih and his manager decided on the up-tempo remix, as that is the version heard on 97 BHT.
Jeremih isn’t your average R&B singer. Born Jeremih Felton in Chicago, the singer entered the University of Illinois at age 17. The early entry to college forced Felton to grow up quickly, and he would soon learn a lot about himself and his surroundings.
“I ended up getting a hold of some IDs,” revealed Jeremih, who blamed his downfall in part on living away from home in a co-ed dorm. “Long story short, I’m the youngest kid in there, but the oldest dude in there.”
The singer soon found himself with a revoked license. But Jeremih credits that experience with helping his career: during that two year period, he was forced to sit home and work on his craft. Jeremih transferred to Columbia College Chicago. He left a semester short of a degree to pursue his career, but plans on finishing at some point.
“Education is key,” said Jeremih. “It got me this far.”
“The keyboard should’ve been here,” he explained while backstage at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain. “It’s on its way; it was 15 pounds over capacity for the plane limit.”
But at least the singer himself made it. Jeremih flew to Scranton from El Paso, TX – touching down in NEPA around 4:30. He quickly drove to the venue, and snuck in a quick sound check before doors were opened to the public. I spoke with him just past 6 p.m., approximately 40 minutes later he hit the stage to croon for 15 minutes, ending with the up-tempo version of his Top 10 hit, “Birthday Sex.”
But if you’re headed to another stop on the America’s Most Wanted Music Festival, don’t assume that you’ll hear that particular cut.
“It all depends on what people are really feelin’,” said Jeremih. “It was up to me, I’d perform both of ‘em.”
After consulting with myself and Kidd Kraddick In The Morning producer Adam, Jeremih and his manager decided on the up-tempo remix, as that is the version heard on 97 BHT.
Jeremih isn’t your average R&B singer. Born Jeremih Felton in Chicago, the singer entered the University of Illinois at age 17. The early entry to college forced Felton to grow up quickly, and he would soon learn a lot about himself and his surroundings.
“I ended up getting a hold of some IDs,” revealed Jeremih, who blamed his downfall in part on living away from home in a co-ed dorm. “Long story short, I’m the youngest kid in there, but the oldest dude in there.”
The singer soon found himself with a revoked license. But Jeremih credits that experience with helping his career: during that two year period, he was forced to sit home and work on his craft. Jeremih transferred to Columbia College Chicago. He left a semester short of a degree to pursue his career, but plans on finishing at some point.
“Education is key,” said Jeremih. “It got me this far.”
7.30.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Soulja Boy Tell 'Em To Collab W/ Drake, Tweak Live Set
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the most tech-savvy artist of our generation is using all of his gadgets while on tour this summer to continue creating, producing, and finishing projects.
“I got the studio bus actually on the road, the whole tour,” explained Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em. “So I’m recording my third album, I was tellin’ ya about, The DeAndre Way, it drops in November. I’m recording my album while we’re on tour. So ya’ll can look out for the Soulja Boy/Drake collaboration.”
I sat down with Soulja during Lil Wayne’s set on the opening night of the America’s Most Wanted Music Festival. The summer long tour features Weezy and his Young Money crew, Young Jeezy, Soulja Boy and S.O.D.M.G., Drake, and Jeremih. Pleasure P, formerly of Pretty Ricky, also made it on to the bill.
Drake, who just signed a deal with Universal Records that affords him a $2 million advance, called Soulja, “the smartest artist of our generation, period,” on The Ralphie Radio Show in June. It seems the respect is mutual.
“Drake is a real dude. Most rappers, they don’t like to give the other rappers props,” Soulja Boy said. “He showed me my respect. Drake is a good artist.”
At least when it comes to artistry, it seems most of the rappers on the bill are taking cues from the headliner. Even after the first show, Soulja Boy already found himself inspired and pushed by Weezy.
“I just got through watching Wayne’s show. I’m about to go back to the drawing board,” revealed Soulja. “I feel like, my next show, I just gotta go back and critique everything a little bit, but we straight though.”
However, I’m sure one part of the performance that will not change is the end. The crowd inside Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain exploded when Soulja dropped “Turn My Swag On.” The first few rows of the venue near came to a boil soon after – when the 19 year-old began tossing out $100 bills in to the crowd. MTV News reporter Sway Calloway estimated that Soulja gave back atleast $5,000 to the crowd. But for the Chicago-born rapper, the money itself wasn’t much of a driving factor behind the move.
“I flash back in my head to when I was 15, 14 years -old, just wanted to become a rap star,” he said. “For me to make it, and to become a millionaire, and for my dreams to come true, all that just be flashing through my head.”
“I got the studio bus actually on the road, the whole tour,” explained Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em. “So I’m recording my third album, I was tellin’ ya about, The DeAndre Way, it drops in November. I’m recording my album while we’re on tour. So ya’ll can look out for the Soulja Boy/Drake collaboration.”
I sat down with Soulja during Lil Wayne’s set on the opening night of the America’s Most Wanted Music Festival. The summer long tour features Weezy and his Young Money crew, Young Jeezy, Soulja Boy and S.O.D.M.G., Drake, and Jeremih. Pleasure P, formerly of Pretty Ricky, also made it on to the bill.
Drake, who just signed a deal with Universal Records that affords him a $2 million advance, called Soulja, “the smartest artist of our generation, period,” on The Ralphie Radio Show in June. It seems the respect is mutual.
“Drake is a real dude. Most rappers, they don’t like to give the other rappers props,” Soulja Boy said. “He showed me my respect. Drake is a good artist.”
At least when it comes to artistry, it seems most of the rappers on the bill are taking cues from the headliner. Even after the first show, Soulja Boy already found himself inspired and pushed by Weezy.
“I just got through watching Wayne’s show. I’m about to go back to the drawing board,” revealed Soulja. “I feel like, my next show, I just gotta go back and critique everything a little bit, but we straight though.”
However, I’m sure one part of the performance that will not change is the end. The crowd inside Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain exploded when Soulja dropped “Turn My Swag On.” The first few rows of the venue near came to a boil soon after – when the 19 year-old began tossing out $100 bills in to the crowd. MTV News reporter Sway Calloway estimated that Soulja gave back atleast $5,000 to the crowd. But for the Chicago-born rapper, the money itself wasn’t much of a driving factor behind the move.
“I flash back in my head to when I was 15, 14 years -old, just wanted to become a rap star,” he said. “For me to make it, and to become a millionaire, and for my dreams to come true, all that just be flashing through my head.”
7.28.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Amber Rose (Kanye's Girl?) Backstage at Weezy's Show
South Philly-born Amber Rose showed up at opening night of the America's Most Wanted Music Festival. The model and former exotic dancer has appeared in videos and print campaigns with Young Jeezy and Kanye West, and has been romantically linked to West as well.
EXCLUSIVE: Lil Wayne's Hotel Tussle
Lil Wayne and the rest of his Young Money crew arrived in Scranton on Sunday, checking in to the Radisson before heading to Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain for a rehearsal. Earlier in the day, my friend Brenda shot the following footage. Apparently Lil Wayne owns an automatic bb gun, and was firing it (or atleast attempting to) at Mack Maine. Drake and a few other bystanders watched as Weezy and his crew wrestled each other over the gun.
Wayne eventually emerged victorious, quickly dashing in to the elevator to escape his crew.
Wayne eventually emerged victorious, quickly dashing in to the elevator to escape his crew.
Backstage Notes From Opening Night of The America's Most Wanted Music Festival
- It’s the first tour of any kind for newcomer Jeremih. The Chicago-native currently owns a Top 10 hit in “Birthday Sex.” Talk about being thrown in to the fire of a hectic schedule: while all of the other acts on the bill arrived in Scranton on Sunday, Jeremih touched down in Avoca around 4:30 on Monday. Less than two hours later, he kicked off the show with a quick set of songs from his self-titled, debut LP.
As per the suggestion of myself and Kidd Kraddick In The Morning producer Adam, he ended with the up-tempo version of “Birthday Sex.”
- National media descended again on Northeastern PA for the kickoff of Lil Wayne’s summer tour, and a familiar face showed up in the crowd. I had the pleasure of watching Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em’s set on stage left with not only Scranton’s DJ Woogie, but also MTV News reporter Sway Calloway. In March of 2008, I met Sway at Whistles in downtown Scranton, where he hosted an MTV Choose or Lose event with President Barack Obama.
In our interview, Calloway mentioned how impressed he was with the maturity of hip-hop (at the time, Young Jeezy performed behind us with a six piece band). He also acknowledged an on-stage stunt by Soulja Boy. Calloway has seen the “cash gimmick” many times (hip-hop artists throwing out money to the crowd), but he noted that usually the money is either dollar bills or fake. However, the “Crank That” rapper was tossing out genuine Benjamin Franklin’s in to the stands. Calloway estimated that in those short few minutes, Soulja easily tossed about $5,000 back to the fans.
- Speaking of Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em, his night ended on a bit of a down note. Soulja joined Pleasure P (formerly of Pretty Ricky), Sway, Jeezy, and Jeremih on the VIP Deck at stage left to watch Lil Wayne’s performance. During the show, Arab – who is one of the rappers in Soulja Boy’s “S.O.D.M.G.” stable of artists, accidentally spilled a drink on Soulja’s white jeans. When I hopped on board his tour bus, Soulja’s entourage was trying to figure out how they could get to a washing machine: the rapper wanted to wear the jeans to Cancun, where he will be celebrating his 19th birthday.
Despite the misfortunate clothing accident, Soulja was more than happy to speak with me. 97 BHT played “Kiss Me Thru The Phone” more times than any other radio station in Northeastern PA. And apparently, the rapper is keeping tabs on me.
“Ralphie man, I see you blowin’ up, you grindin’ here in Scranton huh?” said Soulja Boy immediately when I walked on to the bus. “I see you on Twitter sendin’ out links and sh**. That’s what’s up man.”
Apparently you never know who is reading what you write on the Internet. But, this didn’t come as a complete shock – since we first met last February, Soulja Boy has uploaded two of my interviews to his YouTube channel – with cumulative views over 200,000.
Soulja is currently working on two new LPs, another solo project with a November release date, and a S.O.D.M.G. album that will drop in December. He’s traveling with a second tour bus that is equipped with a recording studio, so he can finish the projects on the road.
- How tight was security backstage at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain? I spoke with two venue employees, who each were there over 10 years. Both said that they’ve never seen the backstage area on lockdown as much as Monday night’s show.
As per the suggestion of myself and Kidd Kraddick In The Morning producer Adam, he ended with the up-tempo version of “Birthday Sex.”
- National media descended again on Northeastern PA for the kickoff of Lil Wayne’s summer tour, and a familiar face showed up in the crowd. I had the pleasure of watching Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em’s set on stage left with not only Scranton’s DJ Woogie, but also MTV News reporter Sway Calloway. In March of 2008, I met Sway at Whistles in downtown Scranton, where he hosted an MTV Choose or Lose event with President Barack Obama.
In our interview, Calloway mentioned how impressed he was with the maturity of hip-hop (at the time, Young Jeezy performed behind us with a six piece band). He also acknowledged an on-stage stunt by Soulja Boy. Calloway has seen the “cash gimmick” many times (hip-hop artists throwing out money to the crowd), but he noted that usually the money is either dollar bills or fake. However, the “Crank That” rapper was tossing out genuine Benjamin Franklin’s in to the stands. Calloway estimated that in those short few minutes, Soulja easily tossed about $5,000 back to the fans.
- Speaking of Soulja Boy Tell ‘Em, his night ended on a bit of a down note. Soulja joined Pleasure P (formerly of Pretty Ricky), Sway, Jeezy, and Jeremih on the VIP Deck at stage left to watch Lil Wayne’s performance. During the show, Arab – who is one of the rappers in Soulja Boy’s “S.O.D.M.G.” stable of artists, accidentally spilled a drink on Soulja’s white jeans. When I hopped on board his tour bus, Soulja’s entourage was trying to figure out how they could get to a washing machine: the rapper wanted to wear the jeans to Cancun, where he will be celebrating his 19th birthday.
Despite the misfortunate clothing accident, Soulja was more than happy to speak with me. 97 BHT played “Kiss Me Thru The Phone” more times than any other radio station in Northeastern PA. And apparently, the rapper is keeping tabs on me.
“Ralphie man, I see you blowin’ up, you grindin’ here in Scranton huh?” said Soulja Boy immediately when I walked on to the bus. “I see you on Twitter sendin’ out links and sh**. That’s what’s up man.”
Apparently you never know who is reading what you write on the Internet. But, this didn’t come as a complete shock – since we first met last February, Soulja Boy has uploaded two of my interviews to his YouTube channel – with cumulative views over 200,000.
Soulja is currently working on two new LPs, another solo project with a November release date, and a S.O.D.M.G. album that will drop in December. He’s traveling with a second tour bus that is equipped with a recording studio, so he can finish the projects on the road.
- How tight was security backstage at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain? I spoke with two venue employees, who each were there over 10 years. Both said that they’ve never seen the backstage area on lockdown as much as Monday night’s show.
7.27.2009
Dana Wins FRONT ROW LIL WAYNE TICKETS Live On The RRS!
Download the mp3
More info on The America's Most Wanted Music Festival here.
Dana from Clarks Summit though she won a 4-pack of lawn seats to The America's Most Wanted Music Festival for being 97 BHT's Human Billboard... little did she know...
Check out video of Dana at Sneaker King!More info on The America's Most Wanted Music Festival here.
BHT-V: 2 Sneakers, 2 Tickets, 2nd Row - Lil Wayne/Soulja Boy Tell 'Em
97 BHT listeners ran frantically through Sneaker King in Wilkes-Barre in search of an autographed Yums Soulja Boy Tell 'Em Sneaker. The winner would be awarded the second sneaker, along with 2nd row tickets to check out The America's Most Wanted Music Festival starring Lil Wayne & Soulja Boy Tell 'Em. Thanks to The Ralphie Radio Show & 97 BHT!
7.21.2009
EXCLUSIVE: Quite The Ride, Literally, For 3OH!3
It was not a smooth ride, literally, to the top of the charts – but the crunk rock group 3OH!3 found a way to arrive.
The Boulder, Colorado-duo of Sean Foreman and Nathaniel Motte stopped at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain for the second consecutive year. But what a difference 365 days makes. Last summer, the band played in almost complete obscurity on Vans Warped Tour – behind a lineup that included the Gym Class Heroes and Katy Perry. This time around, 3OH!3 headlines the summer jaunt, all while owning the most spun song on radio stations across the country in “Don’t Trust Me.” Now the band finds itself in a similar position as its friend Perry found herself in last year: touring the country while fulfilling media obligations across the globe.
“We just flew to London and back two days ago,” said Foreman. “On our passport, the date of entry into the U.K. is the same back into New York.”
“It was a whirlwind trip,” added Motte, who while on the plane took a picture of a glass of champagne he drank – Nat eventually sent a link to the picture out as a Twitter update.
“It’s some new stuff, I don’t even really know about it,” he commented about the bar, on the plane, which he and Sean drank at.
Coincidentally enough, 3OH!3 found themselves across the pond with Perry. Nat and Sean became good friends with the “I Kissed A Girl” singer last summer during Warped Tour. The duo supported Perry on her solo tour. Now Katy, who owns three top 10 hits in the States, will cameo on a remix of 3OH!3’s next single from their CD Want, “Starstrukk.”
“(We) made it bigger, opened up a spot for her on the song,” Nat revealed of the track. “It should be going to (radio) pretty soon here.”
With radio stations already familiar with both acts, the song will surely catch the attention of DJs and listeners alike instantly. The timing is perfect for the group as well: 3OH!3 continues radio promo while finishing up Warped Tour. But again, the path traveled can be bumpy. That proved no more true last Wednesday, when 3OH!3 found itself in a bit of a dilemma: the band’s tour bus broke down.
“We got this new one that has six bunks, and there’s nine of us, so…” Nat explained. “I ended up cuddling with our bass player last night. Waking up with some stubble against your (face) is a little weird, but it’s not altogether unpleasant.”
Considering where this band came from – the idea of band mates and a backup tour bus must be a welcome notion. Before, Nat and Sean would play themselves, now the emcees are backed by a slew of musicians.
Yet despite success, one thing hasn’t changed: the Warped Tour after parties. Nat, who also DJs, still spins at every party he is available for. After the Montage Mountain show, Warped Tour band and crew members joined in for a BBQ and Michael Jackson-themed party, with white gloves and moonwalks encouraged. While techs tore down the set up and musicians mingled with groupies, there stood Nat, quietly in the corner, seamlessly spinning the soundtrack to the late evening. You would’ve never assumed that the 6-foot-plus DJ, flanked by not even a security guard, comprised one half of the duo behind one of America’s most popular songs.
The Boulder, Colorado-duo of Sean Foreman and Nathaniel Motte stopped at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain for the second consecutive year. But what a difference 365 days makes. Last summer, the band played in almost complete obscurity on Vans Warped Tour – behind a lineup that included the Gym Class Heroes and Katy Perry. This time around, 3OH!3 headlines the summer jaunt, all while owning the most spun song on radio stations across the country in “Don’t Trust Me.” Now the band finds itself in a similar position as its friend Perry found herself in last year: touring the country while fulfilling media obligations across the globe.
“We just flew to London and back two days ago,” said Foreman. “On our passport, the date of entry into the U.K. is the same back into New York.”
“It was a whirlwind trip,” added Motte, who while on the plane took a picture of a glass of champagne he drank – Nat eventually sent a link to the picture out as a Twitter update.
“It’s some new stuff, I don’t even really know about it,” he commented about the bar, on the plane, which he and Sean drank at.
Coincidentally enough, 3OH!3 found themselves across the pond with Perry. Nat and Sean became good friends with the “I Kissed A Girl” singer last summer during Warped Tour. The duo supported Perry on her solo tour. Now Katy, who owns three top 10 hits in the States, will cameo on a remix of 3OH!3’s next single from their CD Want, “Starstrukk.”
“(We) made it bigger, opened up a spot for her on the song,” Nat revealed of the track. “It should be going to (radio) pretty soon here.”
With radio stations already familiar with both acts, the song will surely catch the attention of DJs and listeners alike instantly. The timing is perfect for the group as well: 3OH!3 continues radio promo while finishing up Warped Tour. But again, the path traveled can be bumpy. That proved no more true last Wednesday, when 3OH!3 found itself in a bit of a dilemma: the band’s tour bus broke down.
“We got this new one that has six bunks, and there’s nine of us, so…” Nat explained. “I ended up cuddling with our bass player last night. Waking up with some stubble against your (face) is a little weird, but it’s not altogether unpleasant.”
Considering where this band came from – the idea of band mates and a backup tour bus must be a welcome notion. Before, Nat and Sean would play themselves, now the emcees are backed by a slew of musicians.
Yet despite success, one thing hasn’t changed: the Warped Tour after parties. Nat, who also DJs, still spins at every party he is available for. After the Montage Mountain show, Warped Tour band and crew members joined in for a BBQ and Michael Jackson-themed party, with white gloves and moonwalks encouraged. While techs tore down the set up and musicians mingled with groupies, there stood Nat, quietly in the corner, seamlessly spinning the soundtrack to the late evening. You would’ve never assumed that the 6-foot-plus DJ, flanked by not even a security guard, comprised one half of the duo behind one of America’s most popular songs.
6.16.2009
LIL WAYNE/SOULJA BOY Return To NEPA July 27
97 BHT welcomes Lil Wayne and Soulja Boy Tell 'Em back to NEPA, with special guests Young Jeezy and Drake!
Click here for more information!
All thanks to Live Nation and 97 BHT!
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FULL COVERAGE OF LIL WAYNE'S LAST TRIP TO NEPA
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FULL COVERAGE OF SOULJA BOY TELL 'EM'S LAST TRIP TO NEPA
6.12.2009
EXCLUSIVE: NKOTB's Danny Wood Talks Future Plans, Jesse McCartney, Red Sox/Yankees
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Danny Wood didn’t think it would last this long.
“We thought we’d do like 20, 30 shows at best probably, and be home,” Wood confessed. “But we’re very happy it’s gone this long and we’re happy to now be doing the ‘Full Service’ tour.”
New Kids On The Block released The Block in September 2008. The LP marked the boy band’s first studio release in 14 years. After the CD debuted atop the Billboard Pop Charts, NKOTB embarked on a North American tour – then extended the trek to dates overseas. A “fan cruise” last month took the guys with supporters from Miami to the Bahamas. Now, New Kids find themselves on the “Full Service” tour – playing outdoor amphitheaters throughout the summer with opening act Jesse McCartney.
The Boston-born singers themselves didn’t expect this reunion to last in to the summer… but now some are wondering not when will it end, but if it will cease at all?
“We have some plans for next year. I think a new record will probably come in 2011, if we all agree to do that. But, we’re pretty much all on the same page right now. I don’t see this being the last time to see us.”
Wood joked that someone in the group “acting like an asshole,” could prevent the CD release. But, according to him, everyone in the band agreed on that plan for the time being. Still, Wood noted that family situations could play a factor.
“It’s different this time around, so you never know. I mean, I know I never thought my kids would get to see me back on stage. My daughters are with me so, it’s always perfect when they’re here.”
Also with the group is McCartney, a 22-year old pop star that wasn’t alive when NKOTB released its self-titled debut LP in 1986. But apparently, that doesn’t mean the former All My Children actor is seeking out Donnie Wahlberg or anyone in the group for advice.
“You want me to be honest?” Wood asked. “I haven’t seen the dude once. I don’t know… I don’t know. He does a mad dash or he’s hiding or I don’t know.”
Wood seemed a bit bothered, perhaps even offended, in his tone and body language, but insisted that is far from the case.
“I don’t give a shit. He can do whatever he wants, I don’t care,” Wood insisted. “We’re pretty accessible… if you walked around here you’d probably run in to all five of us.”
Give the man credit – I did in fact run in to all the guys at one point or another while backstage. Donnie chatted on his phone. Joey McIntyre walked his puppy. Jordan Knight snapped a photo with me before a Boston Herald phone interview. His brother, Jonathan, attempted to chat on his cell, but of course, coverage can be spotty up on the mountain.
And as for McCartney – Jesse told me later that earlier that day he finally met all five of the guys. The singer blamed a hectic schedule – which even forced him to jet back to Los Angeles at one point – as the reason for his notable absence backstage.
4.07.2009
RALPHIE REPORT: Chris Breezy Pleads Not Guilty, Nat from 3OH!3
The Ralphie Report runs everyweek in The Weekender, a weekly publication in NEPA with a circulation of 175,000.
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Chris Brown pleaded not guilty on Monday to the charges of felony assault and criminal threats – both claims which stem from his alleged altercation with Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty the night before The Grammy’s.
Chris Brown pleaded not guilty on Monday to the charges of felony assault and criminal threats – both claims which stem from his alleged altercation with Robyn “Rihanna” Fenty the night before The Grammy’s.
The R&B crooner appeared in court wearing all black with a matching steadfast facial expression, from the time he walked in to the time he left. According to The Los Angeles Times, Brown spoke in a voice so low that at times people in the court wondered if he even spoke. The hearing lasted about 2 minutes, with both parties expected back in court later this month. Judge Patricia Schnegg informed attorney Mark Geragos that his client, Brown, need not be present.
The latest developments do not come as a surprise – as the plea served as simply a formality to extend the period of time for a deal to be reached. The only consistent report to emerge from both the defendant’s and Rihanna’s camp is that a trial is not desired.
Meanwhile RiRi continues to recover with a little rest and relaxation. Many gossip sites reported that the Bajan beauty spent a couple days in Hawaii, and then flew to New York City to enjoy a movie and dinner with friends.
As for the future of Brown and Rihanna – it seems that every day a new rumor emerges, which only contradicts the previous story. It would be unrealistic to think that such buzz will cease before the legal proceedings take their course.
EVERYONE HAS A WARPED TOUR HAIL STORM STORY
Nathaniel Motte, better known as Nat from the crunk-rock group 3OH!3, called in to The Ralphie Radio Show last week. The band’s new single, “Don’t Trust Me” is gaining traction on radio stations across the country. The Hills also featured the song on two separate episodes.
The boys from Denver will headline this year’s Vans Warped Tour, slated to hit Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain on Wednesday, July 15. Of course, like many other bands that I’ve spoken with since last year’s festival, Nat had a, “I was there when…” story regarding last year’s hail storm on the mountain.
“It was insane, man,” Nat recalls. “I remember looking out of the amphitheater and there’s like 3,000 kids running down this hill. And then all at once, they slide down this mudslide thing. It was pretty nuts.”
But when you play festivals, you grow to appreciate the uncertainty that each show brings.
“That’s kinda what’s fun about Warped Tour. Nothing ever works out as planned.”
The White Tie Affair and NOFX join 3OH!3 on this year’s tour stop at Montage.
STAY TUNED…
Next week in The Ralphie Report: my exclusive interview with Spencer Pratt and Heidi Montag of The Hills. Season 5, allegedly Lauren Conrad’s final run with the show, premiered Monday on MTV.
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Listen to Ralphie Aversa weekdays from 5-10p on 97 BHT.
3.31.2009
3.24.2009
RALPHIE REPORT: Flavor Flav, Vegas, DJ AM, Hinder
Flavor Flav celebrated his 50th birthday last week. No, that is not a typo.
The “Flavor Of Love” star kicked off the celebration on the East Coast – with a star-studded bash at BB King’s in New York City. The party brought a pleasant surprise to ongoers, as Ice-T and Chuck D joined Flav on stage to perform a number of hits from Public Enemy’s catalog.
Last Friday, Flav flew the festivities to Las Vegas, with a party inside Jet Nightclub at The Mirage. The highlight? The rapper held his trademark, “Yeah Boyee!” catchphrase for an uncanny 35 seconds.
SPEAKING OF LAST FRIDAY…
So I spent part of last week in Las Vegas, betting on March Madness (How ‘bout Syracuse?!), partaking in bottle/limo service, and enjoying the amenities of The Strip (as in the stretch of attractions, not a prefix for a club).
You would’ve thought that these activities, especially with Spring Break, would’ve yielded a many stories for this column, between celebrity sightings and encounters.
Well, you would’ve thought incorrectly. I saw DJ AM spin at LAX inside Luxor, and didn’t bother with Flav’s aforementioned party on Friday night. All in all, I did not meet, let alone knowingly encounter any type of celebrity.
And as far as stories? I accumulated quite a few for a 72 hour period, however what happens in Vegas…
BUT AGAIN, BACK TO LAST FRIDAY…
Big thanks to everyone who joined 97 BHT for the return of Funhouse Friday’s inside The Woodlands. While I was actin’-a-foo inside Prive at Planet Hollywood, A.J. In The Afternoon was throwing a big bash inside Evolution at The Woodlands. I can only imagine what Week 2 will be like inside The Woods, with Shontelle, Adam Barta, and DJ Woogie slated to perform on Friday.
There was also a group of celebrities in the house last week. However the band Hinder was “less than friendly” according to one patron. Another person at the event noted that the band would only sign five CDs for 97 BHT to give to listeners (Most artists usually will agree to how many CDs asked of them).
But then again, I suppose it shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise – we are talking about a “rock” group from Oklahoma that is notorious for playing by their own rules, whether that be shots of “Jager” prior to radio interviews or all-night benders on the tour bus before concerts.
It’s really quite a shame though. I remember hearing so many stories about an easy going Hinder – drinking at Tinks with fans, sleeping in their caravan outside of studios just to snag radio time and the attention of Program Directors.
I suppose it’s just an example of the affect that groupies, alcohol, cross-country tours, and a couple of Billboard “rock” hits can have on one’s ego.
BTW, if you weren’t one of the 5 to snag one of those highly-coveted autographed CDs, you might have a chance this summer, as the pompous partiers return to NEPA on July 14 to open for fellow “rockers” Nickelback at Toyota Pavilion at Montage Mountain.
3.11.2009
TMZ: Chris Brown's Manager Sent The Text
Download the mp3 
Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
TMZ's Leslie Harris tells Ralphie who sent that text message to Chris Brown that pissed Rihanna off... and it turns out, Ralphie's met her.
Catch Leslie on TMZ TV - Weekdays at 6 on Channel 38 - The CW.
8.02.2008
5.19.2008
this week's ralphie report: kanye, rihanna, lupe, & chris brown.
Overall, “The Glow In The Dark” tour did not disappoint. Lupe Fiasco played the “opening act” role well. The first Chicago-born rapper to take the stage rocked skateboarding-inspired hits like “I Gotcha” and “Kick Push”, while also moving to the Grammy-award winning “Daydreamin’” and radio-friendly “Superstar”.
The hook on the latter song is sung by Matthew Santos. Fiasco and I chatted for a hot second backstage. Lupe shrugged off the lack of recognition Santos received on Lupe Fiasco’s Food & Liquor, where he made a cameo on “American Terrorist.”
“Man, its whack. You know how it goes,” an annoyed Lupe told me before ducking in to his dressing room, which neighbored Rihanna’s.
Pharrell brought the crowd an early dose of ego with N.E.R.D. I laughed during the singer/producer’s quick disclaimer that he wouldn’t swear – yet still performing songs like “Lap Dance” and the band’s latest single – “Everyone Nose” (take an educated guess as to the subject). Of course, a surprise cameo on stage by Chris Brown also energized the set.
Short of performing two big songs, Rihanna killed it. Anyone that watched her perform previous to this tour cannot deny that RiRi blossomed into a force to be reckoned with – a performance that showcased her vocal abilities while adding theatrics to the experience.
But the Barbados-born songstress won me over before she took the stage. I sat down with an engaging and warm Rihanna in her dressing room a mere fifteen minutes before she took the stage. While her puppy “Oliver” scurried about, we chatted about everything from the success of her latest song to her recent impromptu-photo-op at KFC in Miami.
“Take a Bow” set an American record last week for the largest jump in seven days to number one, climbing from 53 to the top.
Even Rihanna admits that she’s told a few guys to take a bow.
“I’m sure every female has gone through that,” RiRi said. “Whether it’s a guy approaching you in a club in the most arrogant and aggressive way, and you just have to be like, ‘Please!’”
The “Umbrella” diva and I laughed when I presented my gift to her, a pair of glasses complete with a fake nose and mustache. After all, you never know when you might be in a fast food joint with a certain someone and you want to stay incognito from the paparazzi, right?
None of the 97 BHT staff could fathom why Rihanna did not perform her latest hit along with “Shut Up and Drive.” After a quick 35 minute set, the singer dashed back to her bus en route to the next stop – Montreal.
The 20 year-old left with 19 year-old Brown in tow. I ran in to Chris backstage. After snapping a photo with the R&B crooner, I informed him that BHT plays his current single – “Forever”. I also assured him that I did not bring up his name once during my interview with his boo (a mandate from Island Def Jam), to which he responded with a “good lookin’ man.”
I suppose those photos that emerged last week of the two singers smooching would’ve solicited a “bad look” – however I decided to save the awkwardness and not inquire.
The hook on the latter song is sung by Matthew Santos. Fiasco and I chatted for a hot second backstage. Lupe shrugged off the lack of recognition Santos received on Lupe Fiasco’s Food & Liquor, where he made a cameo on “American Terrorist.”
“Man, its whack. You know how it goes,” an annoyed Lupe told me before ducking in to his dressing room, which neighbored Rihanna’s.
Pharrell brought the crowd an early dose of ego with N.E.R.D. I laughed during the singer/producer’s quick disclaimer that he wouldn’t swear – yet still performing songs like “Lap Dance” and the band’s latest single – “Everyone Nose” (take an educated guess as to the subject). Of course, a surprise cameo on stage by Chris Brown also energized the set.
Short of performing two big songs, Rihanna killed it. Anyone that watched her perform previous to this tour cannot deny that RiRi blossomed into a force to be reckoned with – a performance that showcased her vocal abilities while adding theatrics to the experience.
But the Barbados-born songstress won me over before she took the stage. I sat down with an engaging and warm Rihanna in her dressing room a mere fifteen minutes before she took the stage. While her puppy “Oliver” scurried about, we chatted about everything from the success of her latest song to her recent impromptu-photo-op at KFC in Miami.
“Take a Bow” set an American record last week for the largest jump in seven days to number one, climbing from 53 to the top.
Even Rihanna admits that she’s told a few guys to take a bow.
“I’m sure every female has gone through that,” RiRi said. “Whether it’s a guy approaching you in a club in the most arrogant and aggressive way, and you just have to be like, ‘Please!’”
The “Umbrella” diva and I laughed when I presented my gift to her, a pair of glasses complete with a fake nose and mustache. After all, you never know when you might be in a fast food joint with a certain someone and you want to stay incognito from the paparazzi, right?
None of the 97 BHT staff could fathom why Rihanna did not perform her latest hit along with “Shut Up and Drive.” After a quick 35 minute set, the singer dashed back to her bus en route to the next stop – Montreal.
The 20 year-old left with 19 year-old Brown in tow. I ran in to Chris backstage. After snapping a photo with the R&B crooner, I informed him that BHT plays his current single – “Forever”. I also assured him that I did not bring up his name once during my interview with his boo (a mandate from Island Def Jam), to which he responded with a “good lookin’ man.”
I suppose those photos that emerged last week of the two singers smooching would’ve solicited a “bad look” – however I decided to save the awkwardness and not inquire.
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