Words By Malik V.

Though The Firm was hyped up to be a super group of MC’s, they turned out to be a disappointment after sounding perfect on paper as a group of lyricists taking full advantage of the Mafioso theme of the late 90′s. Nas, AZ, Foxy, and Nature gave us “The Album”, their only release as a group, and though they didn’t exactly create their place in hip-hop history, they did bless us with a track that had it all: “Phone Tap.”

In terms of a bangin’ beat, lyrics, delivery, and concept, “Phone Tap” was the perfect package. The beat, by none other than Dr. Dre, who also laid down the hook, is hypnotizing with its somber-sounding loop and drums, but not quite enticing enough to divert the listener’s attention from Nas and AZ. Highlighting Dre’s style, the beat is simple, and provides the perfect platform for two MC’s who know how to feed off of each other. Read the rest of this entry »

Word? said…

“…cause we spending the Jacksons. The Washingtons go to wifey…you know how we do.”

Sat vid..AZ’s “Sugar Hill.” That’s one of my feel good songs. Poor Miss Jones huh lol. “Wha happen mami..wha haaaaappen” (c) any Latina on any given day lol.

AZ-Sugar_Hill-CDS bw Rather Unique -1995

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Let’s talk about underdogs for a second. Like the secondary candidates for a job position or the small college vying for respect in the NCAA tournament with just as much heart to compete with their rivals that dominate the popular vote. It’s always an uphill battle when the odds are against you and you’re always having to show n’ prove. For nearly a decade and a half, lyrical connoisseur Anthony Cruz a.k.a. AZ, has carried the tag of the overlooked MC without merit – even after touching platinum with the failed supergroup The Firm and his own debut album Doe Or Die. His dedication to his craft has allowed him to survive several transitions in the culture’s identity even without the glossy accolades of some of his peers. You could say his consistency has earned him respect opposed to the money and power. Read the rest of this entry »