MadLib vs The Professional, v.1: "I Could" is OUT! Download it today by clicking HERE!
Thoughts from an emcee x bboy -- stuck in corporate America and the true world...
APRIL 30th, 2010 --
"...work now -- play later."
The hustle. How does one positively balance their daily responsibilities and their true passions? I am doing it now, and I have no clue how you succeed at it. Meaning, successfully turn from labor to love. Because, I hate my job. Sure it pays my bills, but I'm only happy when I'm recording, dancing, hangin' w/ fam x friends, or hangin' w/ my love, Ani. It's not just me who is like this, right? I want the instruction from someone who has had to bear the misery of not wanting to be a starving artist [corporate America], and later made it to be a successful and true artist? Pls submit fulfilling answers to my email, God. LOL. Thanks...
Pro.
APRIL 29th, 2010 --
"tell me... that I'm dreaming -- and you wont be left behind... no more."
I miss my home. Canada. I miss my grandmother. She raised me in the evenings while my parents worked. With all the work and life that has been going on, you work to prioritize the level of impact of the things/places/people you're missing. But, it comes to you. And, mine came in a dream -- one of the hardest dreams I've been able to deal w/ in at least 20 years. No details necessary, but dreams -- they'll fuck you up. I never understood why my girl would wake up so distraught over something that isn't real. But, it's not until you have a dream of your own that moves your world and spirit, do you realize the impact of dreams. How real they are. If it wasn't for your dreams, you wouldnt be pushing for the goals you may have -- in other words, dreams can be, and sometimes are, the conduit to your reality. And, it's thru those dreams that I realized my heart hurts a bit -- I know yours does too... trust me. You'll feel it soon -- you're not dreaming...
APRIL 28th, 2010 --
"...life -- if you dont stop to look around every once and a while -- you'll miss it.."
I miss out on a lot. I was thinking about this yesterday, while finishing the recordings on the last Fruition tracks [you ain't ready!! Haha!]... I was thinking "...dammit, Leon! You know you're missing Lupe kill the mic, and B.o.B get his music on. You also havent eaten since lunch. AND, you're missing the Mavs whoop the Spurs asses...". It's truly hard because, being so involved in your music, your culture, and your relationship puts you on a 'social outcast' sort of level. I mean, I wouldn't trade those gifts for SHIT! But, when you realize it, it's a hard pill to swallow. I love my friends. Love being social. Love to be a part of something. But when you have big goals, it really does put a responsibility, accountability, and world-blockage mind set in you... because although everybody would love to see you succeed, they would rather not help [don't want to be a part of any blame... understandably], and probably expect to see you fail. Honestly. But, you know what? I LOVE what I'm doing, and that's the reason I put it all down. 100%. Every time. And what little I miss out on won't measure up to what I'm about to gain...
APRIL 27th, 2010 --
"...ahhh... nowww yoor eh-schpeeky my lang-wech..!"
I don't get this unspoken language that women have. I don't get it. I don't effin' get it... Its like... for example, when the sun's hot, they want it hotter -- so they can 'tan', but you gotta make sure they have ice for their drink, and if they get burned by the sun it's somehow your fault for not telling them to stay inside... lol. Even though:
a. they know the sun is hot as fuck in Dallas. Common sense.
b. they dont need a tan. Necessity is food, water, shelter, love, work, patience, and alla that! Tan is NOT a necessity.
c. it's her fault! No, really -- it's her fault! I'm not being blamed cuz you dont pay attention... again. hahaha...
See, they dont speak, but are speaking. And, me, I dont listen to what I can't hear. Does anyone? And, you women -- oh ho ho, you muthafuckaz, use this unspoken language against us. This absolute absence of rationale and logic. This voodoo. This emotional wavelength that only species like y'alls can pick up. You natter [chit-chit-chatterin' it up] in your groups about how we don't care, or don't show we care, or I dunno... But, just know -- I'm watching. Learning. Adapting to your stealthy, unconventional, borderline-slap-a-stranger-outta-frustration ways -- and I'm gonna defeat you. haHA! MEN: theyre playing silent chess against us, and are slowly trying to mold us into over-emotional, language-less creatures... I'll pray for you. Y'all pray for me... PLEASE. Especially after this post. Lol.
APRIL 26th, 2010 --
"...If you have it hard, dont shy away from the talent that he gives."
Divinity comes in small, effective packages. It takes a keen eye sometimes, or an open heart and mind -- to really see what has been laid out for you. But, when you do, it's like this feeling in your chest that races thru you. It makes you emotional. It hits you in a profound way. And, you realize that you've been blessed with something intangible that nobody can take from you -- it's called talent. I decided to compete in Dallas' World of Dance competition this weekend. I honestly felt that my time as a professional dancer has come to a close. That my skills are declining [slowly, of course -- lol], and the music that I'm making is really starting to take off... so I don't need to feed that monster anymore. I can be content on knowing my career has been fruitful. Shows, tours, commercials, TV, competitions... But, then, I was shown something... I was shown that thru my own movement, purpose, and passion that it's all still there. It NEVER will go away. And, that in showing that I could still rock, I was shown that I could still rock. What a lesson... thank you, God.
p.s. I took home the title!
APRIL 23rd, 2010 --
"...I break you -- like I break your frenggg...!"
So, anyways I went to this club spot last nite to support my lady -- she gogo's every once in a while to make some extra money, plus she loves to dance, so its a win-win for her. For me, its a tiresome display of douchery, boppery, drunkery, and goons reporting for duty as what most would call a DJ, but fuckin' up mixes so bad you wanna beat them w/ their MacBook and Serato equipment. The carnival... lol. Big muthafuckaz that cant even fit in their shirts and shit, girls that aint built right wearin' shit that dont fit right -- you know... carnival. Anyways -- back to the point. It was over [thank you, Jesus] and we're walking out of the club, and I open the door to exit, and it seems like the black version of Bolo Yung happened to be behind the door [!?]. He proceeded to try and call me out for bumping him w/ the door -- and I proceeded to laugh in his face and K.I.M [keep it movin]. He poked me in my shoulder, yellin' "I know you didn't just open the door into me!!". Just carryin' on. And, it's at that point that I figured out that dudes just want attention and like to hear their own voice. I mean, the dude was biggie large [!!] -- DO SOMETHIN'! Shit. But, the same goes down on all the social networking sites. They wanna see their own capitalized font -- lol. And to you I say this: if you realized how foolish you look, you'd probably be embarrassed once you come to the proper age. Or, then again... you'd probably keep doin it until someone paid you for it -- hahaha...
APRIL 22nd, 2010 --
"...I dont need no sleep -- I can sleep when I'm dead."
I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least a little tired. People say that if you're tired constantly, then you're doing something right, and thats good. Nah, muthafucka its not good. Im TIRED -- don't you get it! Lol. I'm in the studio making tracks, the studio rockin the floor, the stupido el neuvo to cinco wanting to do nothing more than sleep thru that bullshit... so, I'm tired. Add in the extras like: drama, emotions, money, and the rest -- well, you get it. I'll go over to DJ Love's and heres how it'll go:
Leon: "Wassup, maannnnn!"
Frank: "Wassup, kidd -- how are you?"
Leon: "Man, I'm so tired/beat/sleepy..."
Frank: "WTF man! How is it that you're so tired all the time? I'm NEVER tired! You know, I used to walk thru OKC on my hands, spinning records, fighting crime..." [and so forth - lol].
...and I've realized, it's when you're doing something you love, and are enthused to wake up to -- your tiredness turns OFF. Meaning -- I need everyones help to get this music on, because it would make me overjoyed to do it every day, tirelessly, and represent for my people. If you need my help though, I'm down [!!] -- just a little tired...
APRIL 21st, 2010 --
"...I dunno where my mind's gone to...!"
Man, I almost forgot what I was gonna write about today... shit! I've always had a semi-bad memory. It's so strange... I'll not remember something so basic it seems like, but I'll remember certain details down to the tee. For instance, I always remember how much I hate someone. LOL -- I'm just kidding... sorta. No, but I'll remember lines and verses from hiphop tracks ranging from age 6 til now... I can remember a court date, or a payment that I gotta make on a bill, but ask me what I had to eat last nite? I have no clue. I'll straight up forget. They say that you can get something called ginkobiloba [sp?] for it, but any pill that sounds like it was made up in friggin' Fraggle Rock with the rest of the cartoon shit, doesnt appeal to me. I need a sure fire way of remembering things [...and forgetting people -- lol]. Any suggestions? Twitter me, email me, text me, FaceBook me, even Myspace me [!!] do anything except call me or meet up w/ me... those are dead ways of communication.
APRIL 20th, 2010 --
"...I think I like the Leon I know."
So, I played the new music for 'Fruition' for my homies last nite after an energizing meeting about an upcoming project [i think my blog may have spurred some motivation! lol]. The overall consensus was that the music sounded extra dope -- which really made me feel confident about the project. These are the type of cats that are respectfully critical, so it was good to hear their feedback. Their one issue however? My voice. See -- they're used to the Leon that they've known for years... funny. Adolescent-voiced. Easy. The songs featured a voice a little more aggressive -- maybe a little un-me... it was different and honestly, I can see how it would look like I'm trying to be someone that I'm not. But, that's the interesting thing about being an artist -- the thought process morphs a person into the visual/audible person that each artist envisions or creates. The end result being the person -- and the persona. And for me, a fan of Canibus, Ghostface, Rakim, and many others -- the person and persona is what I believe is truly unique to hiphop. My homies understood, and we jammed out... it allowed me to realize I still have much more 'fruition' to experience, and their critique is a valuable tool in shaping the best version of Leon The Professional...
APRIL 19th, 2010 --
"...according to youuu -- according to you..."
It's all about perception. Honestly -- it is. For instance - people would consider me lame because I have been a bboy and they see me hop on the mic, like I'm trying to be extra cool, and dont have the skills to rock. L-O-L. Or, I might call you a fuckin' idiot for hanging out or talking to a person that you know is clinically insane, or is going the wrong direction [descending]. Valid? Invalid? OR, people might think we're both in a fruitless mission for acceptance, because they have their masters degree, passed the bar, and are presiding over the next case in the courtroom... at age 29. Here's the truth... I have rocked mics since living in Canada at age 14 -- I have a whole fam of peeps that can attest. You, you enjoy the relationship you may have w/ that friend, so that's really none of anybody's business -- honestly -- sad that it doesnt matter to you, but, I digress. Lastly -- the system is waiting for you. So, in retrospect -- there is always a true reason/explanation to every situation, and a perception is just one view. Take a moment to truly understand, if you actually care to, because ignorance is like each of us -- getting old.
APRIL 16th, 2010 --
"...the dewey decimal system!"
Remember that shit?! Wow. I just thought about how long it's been since I've heard that word or let alone that PROCESS - lol! Dewey Decimal System. After this week of rehearsals, wing-eating contests, shots [said repeatedly, a la Lil John - hahaha], and a healthy dose of drama-versation [much needed, obviously] -- I can say that I've grown. WE'VE all grown -- all for the better. And that's a beautiful thing. My old processes have evolved to new and better ones -- and I can honestly say that I'm no longer the harsh person I was. Or, the negative perceiving individual. Or the dude that would argue relentlessly until my point was proven [ rather than understood ]. See, that was the OLD process -- it worked when I was less wise, less mature, and less bruised by life, but no longer works. Well, it works sometimes, but it's my choice not to use it - lol. Anyways - I just realized I have Star passes to the Dallas Independent Film Festival -- we goin' to the movies, bayyybeh! Find your old processes that may be holdin' you back -- and remember them after and update 'em...
APRIL 15th, 2010 --
"...Everybody's lookin' for love - wuhOHHH..."
People who know me, more so girls, do not like my girlfriend, Ani. It started w/ my ex and since I didnt want to recycle the bullshit 'relationship' w/ her [both of us were unhappy and it was going nowhere, FAST]. Then my 'friends' who thought they knew what was best for me, and then the girls that apparently just have nothing better to do than hate on things/girls they dont know. These unhappy people found it more important to play 'telephone' w/ rumors, than actually find out facts -- but that's Dallas, lol. My girl is a great friend, funny, has a great family, great morals, a beautiful heart, and on top of all this -- is gorgeous. That will always attract hate/envy, I guess... It's actually quite hilarious -- we talked about it... it's like the movie 'Cruel Intentions' -- where they just wanna hate on the new girl. There's a common trend in the people that are too ignorant to find a personal reason to dislike my girl/things/people they dont know - they're pretty much all single [yep, it has something to do w/ it!], most are unhappy w/ their current situation[s], and most [per their conversation x behavior] are more immature, than they are mature. Here's the truths -- everybody's looking for the right love. Two - talking shit is MAD cow[ardly]. Three - ignorance, immaturity, and/or hate wont help soothe your situations, or get you what you're looking for. It's the main reason why I couldnt get what I wanted in my past, and the reason why you aint gettin' what you want now... So -- grow the fuck up.
APRIL 14th, 2010 --
"...I was having trouble swallowing."
Yesterday, BBOY StepOneSkee and I had some Cabo Wabo shots. Then we all hauled ass to Hooters in Addison, as he was scheduled to enter the wing-eating contest -- he was a finalist. He lost. By one effin' wing to Jebodiah R. Boomhauser [or whatever his name is]. But, the funny thing about it is that my boy had a cheering squad of like 10 of us. Yelling. Screaming. OneSkee said the wings were too [temperature] hot -- but, at the seasoning level of 'Bentley', it didnt really matter. Now, he ate 25 wings in a span of less than 10 minutes -- he made sure not to eat all day. His friends hyped this up as the go-to event of the decade... or at least the week - lol. And, dont get it twisted, the shit was mad fun x enjoyable to have all the fam there, kickin' it... but... I hope the day comes soon that we start supporting our amazing shit, rather than goofball shit. I know that supporting a movement comes w/ accountablility, but it's sorta the reason why people have accepted mediocrity and get behind unimpressive, easy, or simply dumb things. We all find ways [including myself at times!] to meet up when it's something [f]unimportant, but hopefully we can meet up and have the same enthusiasm on some work type shit -- I know I got it in me for that! But, on a side note - it was funny as hell hearing OneSkee moan and halfway die at our rehearsal after the contest... LOL - good times.
APRIL 13th, 2010 --
"...friends... how many of us have them?"
Truly think about that one. How many friends do you have? I have come to the realization -- and this is my personal opinion -- I have about 5. I wont even name them, because I really dont know if by the end of this blog post they'll be friends w/ me, if that's any indication as to the fickleness in today's society - lol. Kurtis Blow made the distinction of the importance of a friend, MF Doom then modified it on his album, 'MM Food' -- which showed the new reality of 'friends'. In my opinion, it's a rarity to find a person that cares about someone else. Like, TRULY cares. I believe [and have been told], that I'm one of those people. Thank you Ani [ my love ], Greg, Aidan... But, the truth is -- not many do care about the people they choose to call their 'friends', only about the opinion they have of that 'friend'. That's what it comes down to. And, not Myspace, FaceBook, or Twitter will change that fact -- only increase the amount of weak relationships, and decrease the true value of a friend.
APRIL 12th, 2010 --
"You know what I'd clone?? Hot dogsss..."
So I decided to start writing a blog. I find that I have so much shit on my mind in between working at this job, rocking the mic, and spillin' my core on the floor -- that I HAD to start writing or I would probably ex-fucking-splode. I became a lemming in a sense -- cuz mad peeps have blogs. A clone -- which I hate to admit... anyone that knows me knows I HATE to bite on trends! But, a blog is appropriate. Look to find some trials and tribulations, and 100% honesty -- that you'll more than likely hear in a track or two in the future - lol. I'll keep it as funny as possible -- cuz that's my steez! But, I'mma go in when need be... so stay tuned!
AUGUST 16th, 2010 //
The first installment of Madlib vs. The Professional, the track: "I Could", drops TODAY! Download it HERE!
Leon has been moving up the ranks in Dallas' local hiphop music scene. He started at 802, then jumped to 341, now he is up to 264! Help him reach the #1 spot, by becoming a fan on his ReverbNation page, or simply 'liking' him on Facebook.
More to come!
AUGUST 10th, 2010 //
Last night Leon did his second show with material from 'Fruition', including cuts off of DJ Love's new album, 'Waiting On A Revolution'. The show was a success, with acts, 80's Baby Entertainment and Charlie B also performing. Look for footage from the event soon.
Leon's project, Madlib vs. The Professional has begun! Look for exclusive cuts and show support. Each track is being submitted to Stones Throw Records to get feedback from the label, and Madlib!
Also, look for Leon on ReverbNation, and become a fan of the movement! Visit at www.reverbnation.com/get2knowpro. More to come on shows, projects, and new sounds!
JULY 20th, 2010 //
Leon has done is first show with tracks from 'Fruition'! See and hear more on the show, and his on-goings by clicking the Facebook link under the title on the upper-left! Leon has been working with Collins Management, and has been getting great feedback on the music project!
More to come soon, so stay tuned!
JULY 9th, 2010 //
It's finally here! Order your copy of 'Fruition' online, and listen to all the music. With your download you get: the music project, cover and back art, booklet art, photos, and even a 2nd bonus track! Your support is truly appreciated!
Also, DJ Love's album 'Waiting On A Revolution' is slated for its release VERY soon! We should have dates on this as soon as it breaks [no pun intended]. This album features Geechie Suede from Camp Lo, Special Ed, Info Red, our crew, ELZE, and Leon The Professional!
More to come soon...
JUNE 1st, 2010 //
!!! FRUITION DROPS TODAY !!!
Score your digital copy by simply emailing us [see contacts page for email x contact information]! We're currently waiting on the word from our good friends at Centre who have graciously agreed to help on the sale side for online purchases! We'll keep you updated on these details. Be ready to pick up your CD copy of the album on 6.15.10!
Also, Leon has been featured on D&D Production's, Black Chalk II collaboration, which features rappers: KB Jones, Sir Noah Lot, Shing, Helmz, and others! These are original beats fully produced by D&D, and several can be peeped on 'Fruition', as well! Cop it HERE!
Also, check out Leon's track "No Sitting" on Supa Da Savior's new 'sicktape' titled 'The Resurrection'. Supa goes IN on mixtape cuts and tracks produced by the 80's Baby all-star production line-up, championed by J Rhodes! Cop that HERE!
More to come as we have more details on the album release -- please revisit the splash page and jam the snippets, watch the videos, and check out the artwork!
MAY 11th, 2010 //
Download Advantage's new mixtape, 'My Addiction' -- featuring a fresh track w/ Leon The Professional! Also, featured on the mixtape is Big Sid and Lil Ronnie. To cop the mixtape, CLICK HERE.
New videos for ProTV will be up soon featuring short interviews and music from Fruition. Be on the look out!
MAY 4th, 2010 //
Snippets from Leon The Professional's 'Fruition' are up! Listened to them already? Wanna re-listen to em? CLICK HERE.
Leon performed all his new tracks from Fruition for FurFaceBoy's new Series III t-shirt release party held at Centre, in Mockingbird Station. Coupled with DJ Love they rocked the small area with an awesome performance! Also, Jabee, InfoRed, Johnny Specs, and SoreLosers put down great performances as well. We should have footage up soon from the event! In the meantime, visit www.furfaceboy.com and check out his T's x blog. Also kiddrae.com has up some masterful photos.
Were less than a month away from the droppin the music project. More shows, videos, and something special that we cant let you know about quite yet -- all to come by 06.01.10!
APRIL 26th, 2010 //
The World of Dance competition in Dallas went down this weekend, and we're proud to announce that Leon took the title for 1 vs. 1 AllStyles! The battles pits competitors against each other using all styles of dance -- breakin', poppin', lockin', house, hiphop, and any other style that can be used to the music. He took the trophy and prize money, representing DiverseSoulz and BrownBag Special! Also -- congrats to BrownBag, who also received Best Theme, Crowd Favorite, and placed 2nd overall! Leon performed with them, as well... Look for videos on ProTV -- coming soon!
Also, visit www.kiddrae254.com to view an exclusive interview w/ Leon. It's in its rough draft stage -- however it's a look into the mind and heart of "The Professional".
'Fruition' album snippets to come THIS WEEKEND, May 1st 2010. So, stay tuned!
APRIL 20th, 2010 //
Hiphop was dealt a monumental blow [in more than our opinion] -- Keith Elam aka GURU, the Gangstarr emcee and HUGE HUGEinfluence on hiphop, passed away 4.19.10... Prayers and love is sent to the family. Please keep the spirit of Guru and Gangstarr alive by playing their CLASSIC tracks! Their catalogue trumps most of the rappers' in the hiphop music industry...
APRIL 12th, 2010 //
We're TWO tracks away from posting the 'Fruition' snippets! From the outset, this project had a great outlook, and it's now even more promising from the tracks we've heard!!! Be on the lookout for new pictures, exclusive interviews, and more as we stay updated on the project!
Also, a new blog from Leon is appearing on the main page! Hear all the craziness of life thru the eyes of the emcee, himself -- sure to entertain!
MARCH 17th, 2010 //
'Fruition' has been pushed back to the summer! This is not a bad thing -- as it's in the works to get this project fully mastered and distributed. More news to come as more is learned!
MARCH 1st, 2010 //
Leon has been on tour performing across the U.S. with the Tuaca Body Art Ball , spreading the hiphop message that 'Hiphop Lives'. Visit www.tuacabodyartball.comto catch pictures, and tour dates to see if they'll be in your city!
Also -- Leon has been tentatively scheduled to perform _ SXSW w/ upcoming artist, Karen Noseff! Details to come.
Download D&D Productions mixtape, Black Chalk Vol. 1, featuring exclusive cuts from Leon -- HERE. And visit them on myspace to hear more _ www.myspace.com/thegoodsounds
New articles, and 'Fruition' on the horizons [release date pushed back for good reason!]. Stay tuned!
FEBRUARY 11th, 2010 //
Here's the newly designed site! Check it all out, and let us know what you think!
Also, by now you've heard about 'Fruition' dropping this month! It will be available online, and by CD in limited quantity! So be sure to get yours while it's available!!
JANUARY 25th, 2010 //
New music. New tour. It's a big year already, and Leon has been putting in work. Things are coming to fruition...
Download the newest view of your 'hood, "Neighborhood" HERE!
Also, Leon has finished the tracks for D&D Productions, which will be appearing on his upcoming project. Speaking of upcoming projects, DJ Love's album has been steadily increasing it's additions. No details can be released, as this is a gift that he is excited to surprise the world with!
On deck -- KiddRae has another video masterpiece in the works -- you'll have to wait on that!
Check out Rob Viktum's, Progress 2-- one of Dallas' finest producers. As well, J Rhodes "Gloria's Sun" dropping THIS WEEK. More to report from Dallas' hiphop scene, soon... **UPDATE** Cop Gloria's Sun -- HERE.
JANUARY 1st, 2010 //
First things first -- HAPPY NEW YEAR! 2010 is going to be a HUGE year for Leon, DJ Love, ELZE, and hiphop!
Peep the NEWEST from Leon:
Download the fierce 100-bar massacre, "Dirty Money Freestyle" HERE!
Download a true display of ease x lyrical skillz, "How To Be A Radio Rapper" Vol.1 - 4 HERE!
Leon has been working hard on new music material for upcoming projects, including working w/ D&D Productions out of NJ/Philadelphia. He's completed two tracks, and is currently recording his third. Once fully produced we will drop them here!
The HD interview shot by KiddRae is on the brink of being dropped, as well as plans for a new photoshoot, that we cant let details out on. Be on the lookout for all the newest from Leon, including the completion of the BlastCityBlog, and more!
DECEMBER 5th, 2009 //
We're entering the final weeks of the year!
Leon has has a NEW track up, "Pay For It" that was produced by him in 2007 w/ his friend, producer Capital P. It features a sample from Black Eyed Peas "Weekend", w/ a purposely placed hiccup in the beat to give it a different sound. The verses were just placed on the track just recently! Peep it!
The HD interview is almost ready, and Leon has been asked to be featured on some upcoming tracks from some great, new artists!
Also, DJ Love's album drops early next year -- so we'll have more soon on the release dates and ELZE!
NOVEMBER 17th, 2009 //
Leon just completed a photoshoot x interview w/ KiddRae! Peep the new pics and be on the lookout for the HD video interview at: www.kiddrae254.com/wordpressand on here, of course!
Leon is now 1/2 done recording his EP! Watch out!
Lastly, we're still collecting submittals for the BLASTCITY blog! If you wanna put somebody on blast in a funny, respectful, or serious way, just holla at the email on the 'contacts' page!
NOVEMBER 9th, 2009 //
The 'BLASTCITY' blog is almost complete. You will be able to click the blog link and get all the truths and opinions of those in the life of Leon "The Professional" McKenzie! Secrets, drama, things some of you dont know, need to know, and a whole lot of nothing really -- but, sure to entertain! See twitter: #blastcity, for an idea of how the gang gets down! Or submit your own public/anonymous blasts!
...just wanted to add that this idea is spawned off of my friends on Twitter, so i want to be sure that they get full credit for all of it! --Leon.
NOVEMBER 2nd, 2009 //
Leon is still hard at work w/ his EP, and is about 1/3 of the way completed. He's since re-linked w/ producer, Tony Battle and has been working creatively on new sounds! As well, he has been networking w/ more industry heads in the game, learning and growing. We'll keep you updated!
On another note -- please pray for Calidad Entertainment's, International Stro. He has been ailing and in ICU for over a week due health complications, so Leon, ELZE, DJ AV, and the whole Dallas hiphop community is praying for, and has faith in, your speedy recovery! Muchlove, 'Stro...
OCTOBER 18th, 2009 //
www.get2knowpro.com just got updated w/ an all new interface, homepage featuring ELZE, and much more aesthetic cleanliness! We'll be updating the site more frequently in this news section, as well as the other sections, so be sure to check back! Leon is still plugging away at his EP, and ELZE has recorded two tracks and is in the lab for the third. Along w/ some other secret updates (!!), it's been a great couple of weeks!
OCTOBER 9th, 2009 //
Wish Leon a happy birthday! Today, is his 27th..!
OCTOBER 1st, 2009 //
Leon has been working steadily on his EP which will have a majority of production from DJ Love, and a few other walk-on producers who have decided to get involved w/ the project! ShyGuy and Darkness, are two such producers -- both from Dallas, w/ some serious skillz on production. Look for samples of new tracks -- even a track produced by Leon, himself!
ELZE is still in the lab, culminating more hot tracks for your consumption. Most recently, L Biasca, Luxi The Official, Leon, and Love, have been going through beats, and planning for their debut album and complete show. There have been a few minor set-backs (economy, zombies, bananas on the sidewalk, etc), but the team is back at it! Catch monthly shows, the last Monday of every month _ Slip Inn!
SEPTEMBER 21st, 2009 //
Leon "The Professional" has been working with DJ Love for years now, and is featured on the track, "It's Hot!" from DJ Love's upcoming album 'Waiting on a Revolution', slated to drop this summer. The album also features: Geechie Suede from Camp Lo, Special Ed, InfoRed, and of course, The ELZE. We'll be catching up w/ the renaissance man/musician in the next following weeks! In the meantime, visit:
www.myspace.com/djlove -- to hear the latest hiphop and funky breaks productions!
www.stellarmusic.com -- to learn about his label, and things to come!
Leon has been working with DJ AV and International Stro on some key moves in Dallas, and beyond. Also, collaborations w/ recording artist, Aidan, on new tracks. The two artists have created some great work, and have some more in store for you!
Leon McKenzie, aka Leon "The Professional", grew to become a Dallas respected artist through the art of being hip hop to the core. He was born and raised in Ottawa, ON in Canada to a Jamaican heritage. The urban life of the nation's capital helped fuel his passion for hip hop culture, which harbored a mainly east coast hip hop influence. After birthing his lyrical talents at the age of 14 yrs old, Leon, along with parents and brothers, moved to Dallas, TX in 1998. Dallas, being a major city, held a wider abundance of entertainment opportunities and musical influences. Although different from his formula, it spurred new growth in an already seasoned lover of hip hop music and culture.
Leon became an established bboy and professional dancer, well known throughout the large city as one of the most talented and musically driven dancers in the scene -- however, his lyrical presence had yet to be fully manifested. While he performed and did shows exhibiting his dance skills, he studied his greatest musical influences and continued writing rhymes, songs and verses. He ciphered on the dance floor and on the mic -- battled, won, lost, and most importantly learned how to continue increasing his skills. Throughout the evolution of styles and skills brought on by life experiences, relationships, competition, and more -- he met one grounding force in his life, DJ Love. The talented DJ, musician, and producer who is an artist on Air Recordings [www.airrecordings.com] out of London, UK with Ali B, became a close friend and mentor for Leon. He also spawned his own label, Stellar Music [www.stellarmusic.com], which is a mainstay in the breaks/funk music sub-culture. Together, with their similar views on hip hop music and culture, they started collaborating on different tracks and directions.
Leon's cultural background, hip hop upbringing, and chosen friends and environment gave him the perfect foundation to manifest his musical direction. Continuing with his destined plan, he networked with many influential artists in Dallas, as well as nationally respected performers, creative minds, and entrepreneurs. With growth always the mentality, Leon used these experiences to give him more material to research, and help grow new phases of life to his musical platform. Leon learned business and marketing strategies by maintaining his responsibilities as a white collar worker. Consistently employed at a corporate occupation during the day, he worked to pay bills and manifest his talents at every opportunity available -- night, day, and even on the clock.
To add even more depth to Leon's resume and growth, he gained show and model experience through working with production companies outside of his daily work responsibilities. Examples of his history include television commercial work with Jerry Jones, performances in major cities all over the U.S. and Canada and on live television, and collaborations with photographers, producers, companies, and more. Leon became a stable in Dallas' hip hop community and has established himself through his dancing, and solo music projects.
Leon is the definition of hip hop culture, with a well-rounded knowledge of all its aspects. He is a veteran of performance, professionalism, and is versed on the industry's expectations and requirements from an artist. His morality and good nature has always allowed him to build solid relationships in his city. Lastly, he has an invincible style - whether as a bboy and professional dancer on the dance floor, or on the microphone through his lyrical skill -- Leon The Professional has the ability to effectively influence hip hop music forever.
Foremost, pain. Experience comes from pain, in most cases. It comes from struggle, fight, pressure, stress in a bevy of situations. Mostly, relationships - family, friends, those you let into your life, those you filter out of it, and those that God takes away. I've been blessed to feel the absoutes of these situations, and to be able to express them thru my songs and rhymes.
In the culture of hiphop itself, there are many influences:
The DJ has evolved from being the centrepiece of hip hop's musical formula to an unappreciated talent. DJ Love is the man behind the wheels when it comes to shows with Leon, and has well above-average skills at rocking the 1200's. With over 21 years of experience, DJ love uses two Technic 1200 turntables, a Vestax mixer, and NO laptop to do his work. He is an all vinyl DJ, who prides himself on not compromising the art of the skill. There are many well-known, experienced DJ's who have deservedly evolved to the laptop, but DJ Love does not feel that he is one to follow the trend. It's DJ's like my best friend and fellow artist, those that represent the quality and talent behind the true skill of deejaying, and are the individuals I who I follow. DJ's such as: ZTrip, DJ P, QBert, Revolution, WhooKid, Craze, Mixmaster Mike, DJ Shadow, The Executioners, Lean Rock, Skeme Richards, and many more -- all of which Leon has seen live in action are the ones who hold his respect. It's the essence of this talent is what image Leon plans on putting forth.
In the evolution of the DJ, the emergence of producers has become the foundation to a quality album. In several projects Leon has not only built with his DJ, DJ Love, but networked with local talent in Dallas and beyond. Producers like Shy Guy and Rob Viktum, diversify the sound landscape in an extremely southern-influenced environment. Organic drum samples, musical samples, stringed instruments and live sounds are what motivate Leon's lyrical creativity. Using rare or unique samples, and infusing that with the producers own style, or with the newer, digital soundscape of synths and 808's offer perfect backdrops for a Leon's flavor. And, as Leon is a lover of the bboy culture, adding in the uptempo, higher BPM beat to liven the dance floor is always a top choice. His love for producers like Madlib, Mark Ronson, DJ Premier, Large Professor, Pete Rock, JakeOne, Just Blaze, Khrysis and Kanye West, give you an idea of his musical preferences. These producers have mostly musically driven, boom-bap, drum-heavy beat production styles, and have created classic hip hop music. Leon is going for classic, and nothing less.
Creativity and talent have left the forefront in today's musical climate. Those that bear these gifts are fighting to be seen and heard, while the talentless have become a marvel. It's with the determination to change this trend, is where Leon defines his reasoning for pushing to be among the greatest. Leon maintains his honed and practiced beatbox skills, but revels in the light of beatboxers like Rahzel, Roxorloops, Scratch, and Kenny Muhammad. He uses their amazing talents as the standard to which all artists should push themselves to become. Not in the sense of adopting beat-boxing, but adopting their work ethic and use of talent. Their incredible use of mind, lungs and mouths to manufacture something you can't believe you're hearing is what Leon translates to his music. When applying that mindset of shooting for excellence as a standard, you come up with Leon's goal and focus -- to create excellent hiphop music.
The hip hop culture has elements that few are fully knowledgeable of. Many have focused so heavily on the musical aspect, that all of the culture is defined as the music. This is not so. Leon has been focused heavily on his skills on the dance floor. How does that translate into music? The music is what makes you dance, and when you tie the understanding of the beats to syncopating and using the lyrics as part of a song, you get a great artist. Originality, expressiveness, and musicality combine the audible into the visual experience with a talented dancer, and with Leon having that ability, it allows for top-quality entertainment for the fan and/or listener. Great dancers like Ken Swift, Abstrak, Machine, Kid David, Ata, and Just Do It, give great examples of using foundational moves, original flavor, and passion to 'rock' the beat -- and also certifies Leon's true understanding of what needs to be expressed when representing his hip hop culture. Leon is equally as lethal on the mic as he is on the dance floor, and will impress hip hop veterans down to spectators with his skills.
The quality of lyricism in hip hop has not gone down, but as people flock to mediocrity, the simpler and less intelligent the rhyme, the more attention it seems to get. The truth is that rap and hip hop could be seen as being 'phased out', as popular music trends seem to last for 20 years or less. But, as long as the focus is making music then the artist can survive the test of time. Leon has focused on talented artists who see longevity as the focus, to make a career of making great hip hop music. A shortened list of hip hop acts like: Rakim, Nas, Mos Def, The Roots, Masta Ace, Large Professor, Vinnie Paz, Sean Price, MF Doom, Ghost Face Killah, Slaughterhouse, OutKast, Blu, Pac Div, Brother Ali, Homeboy Sandman and many more, have influenced Leon's style. As well, current commercial artists like: B.O.B, Eminem, Busta Rhymez, Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, and Ludacris help direct his approach. Focus points for Leon point to lyricism and communicating reality, emotion, and life through his rhymes. Battling styles and story-telling, emotion and swagger -- all traits of a bboy -- prove his well-rounded knowledge of hip hop image, persona and artistry. Leon's lyrics stand the test of time and are constructed to touch the listener and not just those who enjoy being trendy.
THE GET2KNOWPRO MIXTAPE
The first mixtape created, this features hiphop 'bangers' from Leon and clips from his verses w/ ELZE. Also, the introduction of WPRO Radio's, W.P. Funk, and a slew of impressive lyrics over some of hiphop's hottest, and slept on, beats.
Tracklist:
1. THE PRO [TON] x LargeProfessor "The Hardest"
2. GET2KNOWPRO Interview v.1 x WPFunk for WPRO
3. ASHER-NEM x DJ Cannon "Cannon"
4. A PROFESSIONAL DISS x WuTangClan "Triumph"
5. SWAGGA-LAGGA x PeteRock "True Master"
6. CHASE MY TALE x J Dilla "Geek Down"
7. GET2KNOWPRO Intervew v.2 x WPFunk for WPRO
8. IRREVERSIBLE RHYME CONTROL x Common
"Universal Mind Control"
9. SON SHINE x MadLib
10. SNIPPETS FROM MIXTAPES
- JUDO CHOP prod. by Tonedeff + Leon
- IN THIS TOWN prod. by Tonedeff
- SURVIVAL FLOW x PeteRock "Been A Long Time"
11. GET2KNOWPRO Interview v.3 x WPFunk for WPRO
12. RELATIONSHIP RECYCLE x SlumVillage "Players"
13. HE SAY/SHE SAY x Hitek "Music is for Life"
14. GET2KNOWPRO Interview v.4 x WPFunk for WPRO
15. JUST WAIT x Prefuse73
16. HIPHOP CAMPAIGN x RonBrowz "Pop Champagne"
17. SO SICKENING x Cool Kidz "Cooler Than"
18. GET2KNOWPRO Interview v.5 x WPFunk for WPRO
19. SWAGGASAURUS x prod by Tonedef + Leon
20. THIS IS MY SONG FOR YOU x Hitek "Tony Guitar
Wilson"
DOWNLOAD HERE!
TEN FRE$H TRACKZ
These are considered 'leftovers', but carry some serious heat. Ten tracks that are sure additions to anyone's hiphop collection.
1. "Who YOUUU?" x QTip "Let's Move"
2. "Finding That New" x JayZ "Dead Presidents"
3. "Seriously Joking" x Bucketheads "Come and
Be Gone"
4. "Cosign" x Pharrell "Mr. Me Too"
5. "GiggaDolla" Freestyle v.1
6. "FreshProphetz" Freestyle v.2
7. "Call Pro" x Savage "Swing"
8. "Waiting on the Windmill" x TheU.N. "Cake"
9. "So Suite" f/ L Biasca x LargeProfessor
"Hiphop"
10. "A Bird Named Truth..." x Madlib "Spanish
Bells"
[ WWW.MYSPACE.COM/GET2KNOWPRO]
[ WWW.MYSPACE.COM/ELZEIZIT ]
[ WWW.STELLARMUSIC.COM ]
[ WWW.NOVALABPROJECT.COM ]
[ WWW.AIRRECORDINGS.COM]
[ KIDDRAE254.COM/WORDPRESS ]
[ WWW.CHRISTOPHERWHITTEN.COM ]
[ WWW.SYNTHESISPHOTOS.COM ]
[ CALIDADENTERTAINMENT.BLOGSPOT.COM ]
[ WWW.PICNICTYME.COM ]
