Peace and Blessings

As you have likely noticed, we have slowed the pace of the BLOGcast down a bit the last few weeks. The OTTR family of shows and PODcast (as well as my passion for them) are still alive and well. Unfortunately i have just come into a period where i am going through a lot personally. I am sure you can underdig how that feels. Its not an excuse, just a statement of fact. My goal is in the next month to resolve most of those issues so that a new improved King Curry can emerge. Those closest to me have an idea of what i am facing. If you are in the NY area, holla at your mans'nem. In the short term i might ask to borrow some sweat equity, but in the long term i plan on being able to be a much greater benefit to those who seek the assistance. Knowing myself to be someone who is not always good about asking for help, i acknowledge that that number may be small initially. The part of what i am referring to that i know i can legally speak of on a large scale is already alluded to on the OTTR site. I say all this to say, i give thanks for you sticking with me. Give thanks for continuing to listen to OTTR. Give thanks for continuing to download the PODcasts. Give thanks for continuing to tell those you love about this humble contribution that i love so much. Give thanks for all your positive energy. And finally, give thanks for helping me, and/or allowing me to help you in 2009. May it not be too painful to get to that plateau where we see eye-to-eye enough to be of help to one another.

One Love,
Curry Kid

Ps. The motivating factor that brought me back to the table so briefly is lox. Not the bagel spread. Not the confining mechanisms. The hairstyle. Or at least that's what many seem to write it off as. I was looking through some material on my desk to make the final decision of what to give burn to tonight when i started to notice a pattern with mixtapes. Well, i guess i should say the pattern kinda surfaced in my conscious mind. Unfortunately mixtape DJs (and in other music cultures it transcends to music producers in general) are not always the most enlightened or respectful in how they portray our Queens and future Mothers. However, this time it surfaced because of one CD's artwork specifically. The masterpiece of Photoshop portrayed who i assume was the DJ (replete with a wedding ring and locks on his dome) in the foreground doing some origami ish with money (i think he was supposed to be counting it?) while in the background is an image of Usher and in between a big ole butt azz nekid bent over black womyn. Now, i'll let Usher speak to how he wants to be perceived publicly. That's on him. However each of the other images i pointed out have significance.

Any time a female (regardless of her age or ethnicity) is portrayed in that way it says two things. First: The dude doing it is trying to tell you that whatever he is promoting is SO good that sistas have no choice to sweat him... Thus weak minded dudes need to sweat him. Second: It chips a little further away at the foundation of this society. Yes it sounds melodramatic, but if i can't respect my sista, how am i going to build with her? If i don't respect my Queen how are we going to see eye to eye? If we can't see eye to eye, how is there any hope that whatever seeds we are blessed to bring into this world are going to have a prayer of having the opportunity to add to the foundation we built?

Rings mean many things. However a solid band on the finger next to the 'pinky' finger on one's left hand is commonly understood to symbolize that one has committed themself to another person, in most cases in a public service that affirms their love before God and/or some government official. To be blunt... If you are married, the hell are you doing trying to convince m**ha f**kas you are some kinda pimp for? I mean adult relationships are commitments between a small group of people that only the principal parties are REALLY subject to, but come on now.

As for locks... If you are not looking at this message screwfaced thinking i am not the proper messenger, than i may need to school you to something. Certain hairstyles are more than hairstyles. I could go on at length, but i have to be on the air in about 5 minutes, so i'll let you do your own supportive research. Suffice it to say, when you decide to go to a loctician (or someone jacks your hair up claiming they can lock it) in the eyes of many, you are affirming certain values. Freeway just put a song into the either about his beard and what it symbolizes. I didn't just wake up one day and decide i didn't want to cut my hair for a few years. By my getting my hair twisted i was affirming for myself that i am on a spiritual path. A path that i hope will allow me to learn from the wisest of my siblings in Hip Hop and Ras kultures and be a vessel from which those not as far on their path can tap into and get farther on their way. Not saying everyone makes that sort of commitment when they choose a stylist. Just that maybe more should.

One Love,
King Curry Kid


saying that w
to me this is wrong on a few levels. However, what obviously was the main reason i bring it up is the lox.

With so many thinking of our Kulture as a game, a business and/or legal drug hustle...

"Has Hip Hop lost its sincerity?"


Meditate on the Question of The Week... Now put down your pencils and pick up your cell phones. Speak on it now (via myspace or holla@offthetopradio.com) or on the air this Saturday night (after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

You might also desire to be among those 'Kickin' It With The Queen?' Queen Nefertari wants to help you work through your questions of love and relationships. Slide her a question now (TheQueen@OFFtheTOPradio.com) or live on the air (again, after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

This week we continue our 7 weeks of giving thanks by welcoming back a crew that was a part of the OFF THE TOP Extended Family long before we birthed the concept. Now Rule's own... InI Mighty Lockdown


This week's show is dedicated to the memory of:
Fred Hampton Sr.
Howard E. Rollins Jr.
Garnet Silk


Next week's guest on OFF THE TOP will be Margaret McElroy

Upcoming guests will include:
Tah Phrum Duh Bush


We are talking about giving thanks because we acknowledge we need to thank you for your love. But also because we have a few things jumping off this month that we suspect you will be thankful for. Keep your ears to OTTR for details.

Sleep Friday night, because Saturday nights are a wrap...

Service resumes on the O Express this week. Get your token now.


Be sure to catch the rest of the OFF THE TOP Family of radio shows.

The OFF THE TOP Snipe Tape series is your weeknight escape. If you miss part of OTTR, you might be able to catch it during the Snipe Tape Series. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights at 11 (Eastern) keep your ear on OFFtheTOPradio.com and 1240 WGBB.

Join Curry Kid as he and WGBB's Program Director (Tom Ross) meet in the WGBB Programming suite. Catch their perspective on the Question of the Week and related issues of the day on OTTExtra. Check it live on Sunday mornings (immediately after OTTR) or later in the week (check AM1240WGBB.com for exact air times).

And if you can't keep track of all that, search your favorite podcast portal for 'OTTR,' or just go to OFFtheTOPradio.com

OFF THE TOP features commentary from Mumia Abu-Jamal ("Mouth of Mumia"), Queen Nefertari, Curry Kid and 20 or more of the illest Hip Hop records currently available to radio.

Share your thoughts... Learn with us... Grow with us... Build with us.

When we are on the air, check in by calling (631-888-88-11) or going to the 'Holla Black' section on the OTTR site.

Listen on the OTTR site or on 1240 WGBB (Strong Island/NYC area)...



OFF THE TOP is the Soundtrack to The Struggle.

http://www.offthetopradio.com


Proudly produced by PAZ PRODUCTIONS... Quality Hip Hop Media since 1991.

Peace and Blessings,

The title came out of the thought that just bounced its way through my mind that all heads seem to think about on Thanksgiving is turkey. The next thought was that back in the day one insult that was popular was to refer to another as a 'jive turkey.' The sarcastic thought became, are we what we eat? If all you think about today and the other 364 when heads mention today, if all you think about is turkey... are you, a turkey? Are you so caught in the kool aid that you don't really taste the flava? On a day that is loved by many for being a valid excuse to express gratitude and loathed by many others for being a symbol of genocide and imperialism, Thanksgiving is about a lot more than turkey... Or is it?


"When heads squabble over expressions like 'Merry Christmas' and 'Happy Holidays' are they losing the true sentiment of the season?"


Meditate on the Question of The Week... Now put down your pencils and pick up your cell phones. Speak on it now (via myspace or holla@offthetopradio.com) or on the air this Saturday night (after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

You might also desire to be among those 'Kickin' It With The Queen?' Queen Nefertari wants to help you work through your questions of love and relationships. Slide her a question now (TheQueen@OFFtheTOPradio.com) or live on the air (again, after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

This week we continue our 7 weeks of giving thanks by welcoming a panel of wellness guides and spiritual healers. Join Queen Nefertari for an extended edition of 'Kickin It With The Queen.' Panelists are scheduled to include:

King Sarion
Alice Agostino
Dr. Prego (N.D.)
Derrick The Energy Healer


This week's show is dedicated to the memory of:
Sojourner Truth
Joe Hill
Souljah Slim


Next week's guest on OFF THE TOP will include InI MLD

Upcoming guests will include:
Margaret McElroy
Tah Phrum Duh Bush


We are talking about giving thanks because we acknowledge we need to thank you for your love. But also because we have a few things jumping off this month that we suspect you will be thankful for. Keep your ears to OTTR for details.

Sleep Friday night, because Saturday nights are a wrap...

Service resumes on the O Express this week. Get your token now.


Be sure to catch the rest of the OFF THE TOP Family of radio shows.

The OFF THE TOP Snipe Tape series is your weeknight escape. If you miss part of OTTR, you might be able to catch it during the Snipe Tape Series. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights at 11 (Eastern) keep your ear on OFFtheTOPradio.com and 1240 WGBB.

Join Curry Kid as he and WGBB's Program Director (Tom Ross) meet in the WGBB Programming suite. Catch their perspective on the Question of the Week and related issues of the day on OTTExtra. Check it live on Sunday mornings (immediately after OTTR) or later in the week (check AM1240WGBB.com for exact air times).

And if you can't keep track of all that, search your favorite podcast portal for 'OTTR,' or just go to OFFtheTOPradio.com

OFF THE TOP features commentary from Mumia Abu-Jamal ("Mouth of Mumia"), Queen Nefertari, Curry Kid and 20 or more of the illest Hip Hop records currently available to radio.

Share your thoughts... Learn with us... Grow with us... Build with us.

When we are on the air, check in by calling (631-888-88-11) or going to the 'Holla Black' section on the OTTR site.

Listen on the OTTR site or on 1240 WGBB (Strong Island/NYC area)...



OFF THE TOP is the Soundtrack to The Struggle.

http://www.offthetopradio.com


Proudly produced by PAZ PRODUCTIONS... Quality Hip Hop Media since 1991.

"Do rich people consider money the root of all evil?"


Meditate on the Question of The Week... Now put down your pencils and pick up your cell phones. Speak on it now (via myspace or holla@offthetopradio.com) or on the air this Saturday night (after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

You might also desire to be among those 'Kickin' It With The Queen?' Queen Nefertari wants to help you work through your questions of love and relationships. Slide her a question now (TheQueen@OFFtheTOPradio.com) or live on the air (again, after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

This week's show is dedicated to the memory of:
DJ Screw
Stokley Carmichael


This week's guest on OFF THE TOP will be Eternia

We are talking about giving thanks because we acknowledge we need to thank you for your love. (And your patience with the Eternia part 2.) But also because we have a few things jumping off this month that we suspect you will be thankful for. Keep your ears to OTTR for details.

Sleep Friday night, because Saturday nights are a wrap...

Service resumes on the O Express this week. Get your token now.


Be sure to catch the rest of the OFF THE TOP Family of radio shows.

The OFF THE TOP Snipe Tape series is your weeknight escape. If you miss part of OTTR, you might be able to catch it during the Snipe Tape Series. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights at 11 (Eastern) keep your ear on OFFtheTOPradio.com and 1240 WGBB.

Join Curry Kid as he and WGBB's Program Director (Tom Ross) meet in the WGBB Programming suite. Catch their perspective on the Question of the Week and related issues of the day on OTTExtra. Check it live on Sunday mornings (immediately after OTTR) or later in the week (check AM1240WGBB.com for exact air times).

And if you can't keep track of all that, search your favorite podcast portal for 'OTTR,' or just go to OFFtheTOPradio.com

OFF THE TOP features commentary from Mumia Abu-Jamal ("Mouth of Mumia"), Queen Nefertari, Curry Kid and 20 or more of the illest Hip Hop records currently available to radio.

Share your thoughts... Learn with us... Grow with us... Build with us.

When we are on the air, check in by calling (631-888-88-11) or going to the 'Holla Black' section on the OTTR site.

Listen on the OTTR site or on 1240 WGBB (Strong Island/NYC area)...



OFF THE TOP is the Soundtrack to The Struggle.

http://www.offthetopradio.com


Proudly produced by PAZ PRODUCTIONS... Quality Hip Hop Media since 1991.

Peace and Blessings,

First off, let me spread love to my mellow Musa aka Howard Lloyd. The hook to one of his songs was on my mind when i sat down to write this. I'll let you judge if the reference is appropriate. It came to mind, though, because Barack Obama's victory on Tuesday is one that many can feel proud of. He humbly stated that it was our victory, but its one that many specific groups can be proud of.

It goes without saying that it was a moment that Black people can claim. Not just because it was something that would have been unfathomable only a few years ago (let alone back in the days when the Panthers were getting executed left and right for the crime of feeding their neighbors)... Truth be told, i think most of us felt it was unfathomable a few months ago. But also because it brought generations together. I was touched to hear the story of a womyn in her 30s who was waiting on line to vote. An elder (in this case someone many might call an 'old womyn') got on line and her chronological junior offered to let her cut ahead on line and the elder was so proud to vote for a black man that she confidently asserted that she would stay in her place.

I also would assert that it was a victory for Hip Hop. I won't go too deep out of respect for an inactive member of the Immediate Family who is about to publish an article on the subject, but suffice it to say, we embraced him and helped make him (and voting, to a large extent) something today's youth wanted to embrace.

Regardless of if you agree with me, one thing is undeniable. The election, the campaign and the the votes that proved it victorious were historic. This week (and possibly the next two months) were our time to celebrate. However, we can not lose site of the fact that it is now that the real work begins. Now is when we must hold him to his promises. Hold him to bringing our siblings home. Hold him to cutting our taxes. Hold him to increasing taxes for corporations and/or rich people. Hold him to ensuring our youth get proper education and we all get proper health care. He seems like a sincere dude. But as even he has said, change must come from us.

I salute Dr King... I salute Sister Rosa... I salute Brother Malcolm... I salute those four little girls... I salute those three voter registration workers... I salute Shirley Chisolm... If you do not know about any of these people: do a web search, ask an elder, link me up... Because it is on their shoulders that we stand. Were it not for their sacrifices, the sacrifices of many of their contemporaries and that of their respective families Hip Hop may never have risen out of the politics of the early 70s. Were it not for them we may never have seen last Tuesday's victory. Respect to the elders and ancestors.

One Love,
Curry Kid


Ps. The Question of The Week is, 'Where is your favorite place to draw strength when times are hard?'

Peace and Blessings,

This has nothing directly to do with the OFF THE TOP Family of shows, WGBB Radio or P2. I just wanted to take a hot second to remind you of the significance today holds. Human to human. If you are registered (or in a state where you can register at your polling place) please vote. If (after verifying that in your state you are forboden to vote) you know can not vote, please make sure you help those who can. That has been the one message i have tried to put out the most consistently of late. Too many are struggling to this day to protect your right to vote, please exercise it and speak your mind. I was actually quite touched earlier when i went to vote. Part because of the historical significance of the day, but also seeing an eclectic mix of people bringing their families with them to my local polling place. It spoke volumes to me about how important my neighbors found the activity.

If you already have dones so, thank you for doing your civic duty. Whether you voted for someone who may do what you believe in but is more likely to get elected or someone who will definitely do the right thing but may have less of a chance, the important thing is that you were part of the process.

One Love,
Curry Kid


PS. Polls close between 6 & 9 depending on your state. Most states its around 8PM local time.

Sites you may want to peep:
vote411.org
smartervoter.org
rockthevote.com
offthetopradio.com
www.am1240wgbb.com

October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month, if you or someone you care about needs help, that science can also be found on our site. In the interest of allowing you to fully absorb the power of one person's experiences with the subject, we will be postponing an interview we had told you would air this week. With daylight savings time ending tonite, we may barely have time to play music as it is.

"To what extent could the next President change your day to day life?"


Meditate on the Question of The Week... Now put down your pencils and pick up your cell phones. Speak on it now (via myspace or holla@offthetopradio.com) or on the air this Saturday night (after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

You might also desire to be among those 'Kickin' It With The Queen?' Queen Nefertari wants to help you work through your questions of love and relationships. Slide her a question now (TheQueen@OFFtheTOPradio.com) or live on the air (again, after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

This week's show is dedicated to the memory of:
Mac Dre
Nat Turner

Future guests on OFF THE TOP will include Eternia

Sleep Friday night, because Saturday nights are a wrap...

Service resumes on the O Express this week. Get your token now.


Be sure to catch the rest of the OFF THE TOP Family of radio shows.

The Monday Snipe is back! The OFF THE TOP Snipe Tape series is your weeknight escape. If you miss part of OTTR, you might be able to catch it during the Snipe Tape Series. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights at 11 (Eastern) keep your ear on OFFtheTOPradio.com and 1240 WGBB.

Join Curry Kid as he and WGBB's Program Director (Tom Ross) meet in the WGBB Programming suite. Catch their perspective on the Question of the Week and related issues of the day on OTTExtra. Check it live on Sunday mornings (immediately after OTTR) or later in the week (check AM1240WGBB.com for exact air times).

And if you can't keep track of all that, search your favorite podcast portal for 'OTTR,' or just go to OFFtheTOPradio.com

OFF THE TOP features commentary from Mumia Abu-Jamal ("Mouth of Mumia"), Queen Nefertari, Curry Kid and 20 or more of the illest Hip Hop records currently available to radio.

Share your thoughts... Learn with us... Grow with us... Build with us.

When we are on the air, check in by calling (631-888-88-11) or going to the 'Holla Black' section on the OTTR site.

Listen on the OTTR site or on 1240 WGBB (Strong Island/NYC area)...



OFF THE TOP is the Soundtrack to The Struggle.

http://www.offthetopradio.com


Proudly produced by PAZ PRODUCTIONS... Quality Hip Hop Media since 1991.

Question of the Week:
"Do people expect their to be a magic pill to cure everything today?"

Names:
Teresa Dember
Noble Dru
Jam Master Jay
CyMarshall Law
Mekka Don
Usher
ASN

Some of the above are guests on tonite's show, some have blessed us with new music to share with you and the show is dedicated to the rest. Listen to OFF THE TOP Radio (.com) starting at Midnight (Eastern) to find out who is which.

And now for one of two things we are doing tonite for halloween...
[evil sounding cackle]

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, if you or someone you care about needs help, that science can also be found on our site.

"Do people expect their to be a magic pill to cure everything today?"


Meditate on the Question of The Week... Now put down your pencils and pick up your cell phones. Speak on it now (via myspace or holla@offthetopradio.com) or on the air this Saturday night (after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

You might also desire to be among those 'Kickin' It With The Queen?' Queen Nefertari wants to help you work through your questions of love and relationships. Slide her a question now (TheQueen@OFFtheTOPradio.com) or live on the air (again, after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

This week's guests on OFF THE TOP will include:
MC: CyMarshall Law
Rekhi Practitioner: Teresa Dember

Future guests on OFF THE TOP will Eternia?

Sleep Friday night, because Saturday nights are a wrap...

Service resumes on the O Express this week. Get your token now.


Be sure to catch the rest of the OFF THE TOP Family of radio shows.

The Monday Snipe is back! The OFF THE TOP Snipe Tape series is your weeknight escape. If you miss part of OTTR, you might be able to catch it during the Snipe Tape Series. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights at 11 (Eastern) keep your ear on OFFtheTOPradio.com and 1240 WGBB.

Join Curry Kid as he and WGBB's Program Director (Tom Ross) meet in the WGBB Programming suite. Catch their perspective on the Question of the Week and related issues of the day on OTTExtra. Check it live on Sunday mornings (immediately after OTTR) or later in the week (check AM1240WGBB.com for exact air times).

And if you can't keep track of all that, search your favorite podcast portal for 'OTTR,' or just go to OFFtheTOPradio.com

OFF THE TOP features commentary from Mumia Abu-Jamal ("Mouth of Mumia"), Queen Nefertari, Curry Kid and 20 or more of the illest Hip Hop records currently available to radio.

Share your thoughts... Learn with us... Grow with us... Build with us.

When we are on the air, check in by calling (631-888-88-11) or going to the 'Holla Black' section on the OTTR site.

Listen on the OTTR site or on 1240 WGBB (Strong Island/NYC area)...



OFF THE TOP is the Soundtrack to The Struggle.

http://www.offthetopradio.com


Proudly produced by PAZ PRODUCTIONS... Quality Hip Hop Media since 1991.

Peace and Blessings,

Its a trip because as i read the BLOGcast was being subtitled, 'Excitement' this week, Mr Excitement came to mind.  And although the two heads that were/are referred to as such are both great dudes, this isn't about them.  Its about the energy of this Presidential Election cycle.  How messages about voting are popping up in places you wouldn't expect them...  Like R&B radio stations.  I am feeling that energy of change that heads have spoke on on OTTR numerous times in the past.  Help secure that change is one you will benefit you.  Vote on Nov 4th.

One Love,

Curry Kid

 

 

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, if you or someone you care about needs help, that science can also be found on our site.

"What simple expression resonates with you the deepest?"


Meditate on the Question of The Week... Now put down your pencils and pick up your cell phones. Speak on it now (via myspace or holla@offthetopradio.com) or on the air this Saturday night (after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

You might also desire to be among those 'Kickin' It With The Queen?' Queen Nefertari wants to help you work through your questions of love and relationships. Slide her a question now (TheQueen@OFFtheTOPradio.com) or live on the air (again, after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

Tomorrow night's guest on OFF THE TOP will be Eternia.
Future guests on OFF THE TOP will include CyMarshall Law.

Sleep Friday night, because Saturday nights are a wrap...

Service resumes on the O Express this week. Get your token now.


Be sure to catch the rest of the OFF THE TOP Family of radio shows.

The Monday Snipe is back!  The OFF THE TOP Snipe Tape series is your weeknight escape. If you miss part of OTTR, you might be able to catch it during the Snipe Tape Series. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights at 11 (Eastern) keep your ear on OFFtheTOPradio.com and 1240 WGBB.

Join Curry Kid as he and WGBB's Program Director (Tom Ross) meet in the WGBB Programming suite. Catch their perspective on the Question of the Week and related issues of the day on OTTExtra. Check it live on Sunday mornings (immediately after OTTR) or later in the week (check AM1240WGBB.com for exact air times).

And if you can't keep track of all that, search your favorite podcast portal for 'OTTR,' or just go to OFFtheTOPradio.com

OFF THE TOP features commentary from Mumia Abu-Jamal ("Mouth of Mumia"), Queen Nefertari, Curry Kid and 20 or more of the illest Hip Hop records currently available to radio.

Share your thoughts... Learn with us... Grow with us... Build with us.

When we are on the air, check in by calling (631-888-88-11) or going to the 'Holla Black' section on the OTTR site.

Listen on the OTTR site or on 1240 WGBB (Strong Island/NYC area)...



OFF THE TOP is the Soundtrack to The Struggle.

http://www.offthetopradio.com


Proudly produced by PAZ PRODUCTIONS... Quality Hip Hop Media since 1991.

In case you are taking notes, October 10th is the voter registration deadline in: New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Idaho (Saturday for Delaware). Some states have passed their deadlines, in many others you still have time. Do the knowledge on OFFtheTOPradio.com or your favorite search engine. For the states listed above as long as you have your application postmarked by that day, you are straight.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, if you or someone you care about needs help, that science can also be found on our site.

"How or would the election of Obama as president change the state of racism in Amerika?"


Meditate on the Question of The Week... Now put down your pencils and pick up your cell phones. Speak on it now (via myspace or holla@offthetopradio.com) or on the air this Saturday night (after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

You might also desire to be among those 'Kickin' It With The Queen?' Queen Nefertari wants to help you work through your questions of love and relationships. Slide her a question now (TheQueen@OFFtheTOPradio.com) or live on the air (again, after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

Future guests on OFF THE TOP include Eternia.

Sleep Friday night, because Saturday nights are a wrap...

Service resumes on the O Express this week. Get your token now.


Be sure to catch the rest of the OFF THE TOP Family of radio shows.

The OFF THE Top Snipe Tape series is your weeknight escape. If you miss part of OTTR, you might be able to catch it during the Snipe Tape Series. Tuesday and Thursday nights at 11 (Eastern) keep your ear on OFFtheTOPradio.com and 1240 WGBB.

Join Curry Kid as he and WGBB's Program Director (Tom Ross) meet in the WGBB Programming suite. Catch their perspective on the Question of the Week and related issues of the day on OTTExtra. Check it live on Sunday mornings (immediately after OTTR) or later in the week (check AM1240WGBB.com for exact air times).

And if you can't keep track of all that, search your favorite podcast portal for 'OTTR,' or just go to OFFtheTOPradio.com

OFF THE TOP features commentary from Mumia Abu-Jamal ("Mouth of Mumia"), Queen Nefertari, Curry Kid and 20 or more of the illest Hip Hop records currently available to radio.

Share your thoughts... Learn with us... Grow with us... Build with us.

When we are on the air, check in by calling (631-888-88-11) or going to the 'Holla Black' section on the OTTR site.

Listen on the OTTR site or on 1240 WGBB (Strong Island/NYC area)...



OFF THE TOP is the Soundtrack to The Struggle.

http://www.offthetopradio.com


Proudly produced by PAZ PRODUCTIONS... Quality Hip Hop Media since 1991.

As we enter Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we felt it important to bring back Alice from SCCADV (dot org) to discuss the subject. Join Queen Nefertari to discuss that and your questions about love and relationships. In the mean time we ask...

"Does society put too much pressure on men to be in control?"


Meditate on the Question of The Week... Now put down your pencils and pick up your cell phones. Speak on it now (via myspace or holla@offthetopradio.com) or on the air this Saturday night (after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

You might also desire to be among those 'Kickin' It With The Queen?' Queen Nefertari wants to help you work through your questions of love and relationships. Slide her a question now (TheQueen@OFFtheTOPradio.com) or live on the air (again, after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

Plus, rumor has it we may have a special guest co-host(s) for the OFF THE TOP 5.


Sleep Friday night, because Saturday nights are a wrap...

Service resumes on the O Express this week. Get your token now.


Be sure to catch the rest of the OFF THE TOP Family of radio shows.

The OFF THE Top Snipe Tape series is your weeknight escape. If you miss part of OTTR, you might be able to catch it during the Snipe Tape Series. Tuesday and Thursday nights at 11 (Eastern) keep your ear on OFFtheTOPradio.com and 1240 WGBB.

Join Curry Kid as he and WGBB's Program Director (Tom Ross) meet in the WGBB Programming suite. Catch their perspective on the Question of the Week and related issues of the day on OTTExtra. Check it live on Sunday mornings (immediately after OTTR) or later in the week (check AM1240WGBB.com for exact air times).

And if you can't keep track of all that, search your favorite podcast portal for 'OTTR,' or just go to OFFtheTOPradio.com

OFF THE TOP features commentary from Mumia Abu-Jamal ("Mouth of Mumia"), Queen Nefertari, Curry Kid and 20 or more of the illest Hip Hop records currently available to radio.

Share your thoughts... Learn with us... Grow with us... Build with us.

When we are on the air, check in by calling (631-888-88-11) or going to the 'Holla Black' section on the OTTR site.

Listen on the OTTR site or on 1240 WGBB (Strong Island/NYC area)...



OFF THE TOP is the Soundtrack to The Struggle.

http://www.offthetopradio.com


Proudly produced by PAZ PRODUCTIONS... Quality Hip Hop Media since 1991.

Peace and Blessings,

I was meditating a bit over the last day or so about something that has irritated me lately. Recently OTTR has rocked a song or two about the roll of the DJ in Hip Hop. The song i will focus on is called, 'The DJ' and is off DJ Revolution's album with featured lyricism by none other than KRS ONE. Let me preface my comments by saying that despite what i am about to say and how i may sometimes disagree with his approach, i do still consider KRS to be my favorite MC of all time and afford him the respect that comes with that distinction.

With that said, the part of the track that initially stood out to me is when Kris says, 'f*ck your requests, you came to hear the DJ rock.' Now as someone who has spun as a mobile DJ, spun at clubs and spun at radio i would be lying if i said i have never gotten heated over requests. Sometimes as experts in our field of influence we appreciate the music on a deeper level. So when someone requests a song we find particularly wack, especially if we gave into the pressure to play it 10 minutes before the requester entered the room, it can be vexing. However, i am not sure writing off the perspective of the listeners and supporters is the best move. I am not saying that when you are at the club, the DJ is your personal MP3 player, just that spinning, like any element of Hip Hop (or artistic expression in general) requires a certain give and take of energy. Even the best DJ can get distracted if they see their ex on the floor dancing with someone else.

Now don't get me wrong, there is a place for ego and even negative energy can be productive. In the former case, it takes some confidence just to put yourself in front of a crowd. In the latter, a battle DJ (much like anyone who enjoys battling) will use negative energy differently than someone who is playing at your niece's sweet 16 or Quincinera. But with all that said, just running up in a spot with all the bravado of a top 40 rapper is not necessarily going to make for the best mix ever or move the crowd any.

The other point that the Blastmaster makes that i am not sure i completely agree with is that in pointing out that DJs and MCs are connected (i concur and suggest that that transcends to practitioners of all Hip Hop's elements) he suggests that an MC should speak for the DJ who provides their beats. If i could be so bold, i want to qualify that to say that all of Hip Hop's elements (as all forms of art) are expressions, nay megaphones for our individual voices.

In other words, we are all here to say or do SOMETHING. No one is living in a vacuum. So it becomes a matter of how you choose to employ those gifts. Not everyone is meant to spit, not everyone is made to spin. Its on you to acknowledge your gifts, sharpen them and use them to amplify your voice.

What i appreciate most about the song is that its purpose is to herald the significance of the DJ. I am merely suggesting that what made Pete Rock & CL Smooth's music so much better than CL Smooth's music, the reason that B.I.G.'s music was so much better when he was still on this plain, what made the Fresh Prince more authentic than Will Smith is that the songs were less a pile of beats and words and more a conversation between the MC and the DJ.

Again DJing as an expression merely lends amplification to what the DJ has to say. Ie. the concept of Terminator X speaking with his hands. We are all here to speak our voice. One other gem the song offers is that too many DJs are content to prostitute their megaphone for a paycheck. So i will part with this... How are you using your voice? Are you using it to make a mark and uplift like those who have recognized their gifts and honed their skills? Or are you acting like a fast food clerk at a drive-thru window, using it to sell unhealthy products to your community?


One Love,
Curry Kid



Ps. FYI...

This Saturday is Curry Kid's annual Born Day show so you never know who may check in.

We will tell you though, get your questions about love and relationships ready as the Queen will be welcoming Holistic Doctor James Prego to be among those 'Kickin It With The Queen.'

Speaking of Questions, the Question of the Week is: 'Will the next president institute a single payer universal healthcare plan?'


This Saturday's OFF THE TOP will be dedicated to:
Cowboy (of Grandmaster Flash & The Furious 5)
Peter Tosh
Anita Roddick


Service resumes on the O Express this week. Get your token now.


Be sure to catch the rest of the OFF THE TOP Family of radio shows.

The OFF THE Top Snipe Tape series is your weeknight escape. If you miss part of OTTR, you might be able to catch it during the Snipe Tape Series. Tuesday and Thursday nights at 11 (Eastern) keep your ear on OFFtheTOPradio.com and 1240 WGBB.

Join Curry Kid as he and WGBB's Program Director (Tom Ross) meet in the WGBB Programming suite. Catch their perspective on the Question of the Week and related issues of the day on OTTExtra. Check it live on Sunday mornings (immediately after OTTR) or later in the week (check AM1240WGBB.com for exact air times).

And if you can't keep track of all that, search your favorite podcast portal for 'OTTR,' or just go to OFFtheTOPradio.com

OFF THE TOP features commentary from Mumia Abu-Jamal ("Mouth of Mumia"), Queen Nefertari, Curry Kid and 20 or more of the illest Hip Hop records currently available to radio.

Share your thoughts... Learn with us... Grow with us... Build with us.

When we are on the air, check in by calling (631-888-88-11) or going to the 'Holla Black' section on the OTTR site.

Listen on the OTTR site or on 1240 WGBB (Strong Island/NYC area)...



OFF THE TOP is the Soundtrack to The Struggle.

http://www.offthetopradio.com


Proudly produced by PAZ PRODUCTIONS... Quality Hip Hop Media since 1991.

Peace and Blessings,

Apologies for abandoning my responsibilities with the written word last week. As i am sure you can empathize a lot has been going on in my life lately. And it's funny because had you asked me a year or so ago i would have argued that life goes slowly and has more potential to be memorable when you are coming up. Not to say adults don't have significant moments (Hallmark will never let that perception seem true), just that a child could probably tell you all the places they went and characters they met in the past two months, where as we get older that timeline seems to broaden a bit. I'll let you draw the conclusions about why. I just bring it up to say that i am in the midst of some life changes that could put me in a very different place by the end of the year and a lot of that was sparked off in the last couple of months.

This week things are slightly more mellow... translation, i am feeling distracted... So i would like to get a few things off my chest. I have been meaning to stand in my power more. Not saying i am often hypocritical when i challenge you to take responsibility for your actions. Just that i have personally struggled with that a bit. I would say that we are all responsible for our place in life while on the air and then go to my 9-5 gig and not speak my mind. I am in the process of changing that for myself.

Part of that process, will likely include my being more honest with you. For example. The two criticisms that when leveled against me over the years (especially by immediate members of my Hip Hop family) have resonated most deeply with me are that i am egotistical and that i try to tell black people how to be black.

The former made me laugh more than it made me angry. I would scoff at it because i have always found myself to be humble to a fault. Am i protective of the projects that i consider to be my babies? Sure. But i have always been willing to give credit to those who contribute to them. OFF THE TOP was never just 'The Curry Kid show' it has always been about bringing people together, displaying the contributions of artists that large corporate radio ignores and encouraging progress. Add to that one of my close advisors recently said that one of the most selfish things you can do is suffer in silence. That God wants us to be happy and healthy, to succeed beyond our wildest desires. That by us holding ourselves back we are in effect second guessing that vision for us. So i guess if my detractors want to see my success as a product of ego, i can't stop them. However as long as i continue to help others with what i do, than i know what i am doing is on point.

As for the latter accusation... Let me first qualify it to say i am also including those who would suggest i am not black enough to do or say certain things. For the sake of some semblance of brevity i will overlook all the multitiered levels of why these accusations are divisive and do little more than to raise the accusers ego to the detriment of the recipient. With that said, i can only respond to life's stimuli as my heart and soul see fit. When i listen to an album/CD/zip folder like LL Kool J's new project and observe that it is odd to hear him wax on about how Hip Hop Kulture has been trampled on and raped by corporate America over the past 15-20 years (it was only in that time that they felt we were viable enough to abuse in such a manner, the song, in case you are taking notes, is called 'Dear Hip Hop') while the rest of the album is replete with songs about him being a playa, a hustla and being at war with Hip Hop... When i make such an observation its not because i desire to tell him what it is to be black, married with children or Hip Hop. I make the observation because i KNOW Hip Hop is better than that. Brother J, Chuck D and Paris have all been involved in Hip Hop professionally almost as long as LL has. Although only one of the three have a discography prolific enough to rival L's, all have consistently used the power they have been bestowed as MCs to offer a progressive message in their music. Which is something that L couldn't really even say (and even now its a stretch) until this current project. If my detractors need to tell themselves that i am only saying this because i am of a certain ethnic or gender subdivision, they can choose to believe that, all i am suggesting is that i call it as i see it. That as an elder in Hip Hop, as someone who was there BEFORE corporate America was, as someone who has children and a wife that he loves deeply... he is in a position few others are. A position where he has the power to almost literally speak progress into action. So why squander that with references to things his romantic interest's mother doesn't need to know about? (see 'Baby')

Again, the point of this message is that we, as elders, need to step up more. I know we all have struggles to contend with. However if all the future generations see is us selling out, than what will life be like for them as elders? Part of my desire to be more honest with you is to clarify my political perspective slightly. Over the last few weeks i have been a bit caged with my opinion. I have told you it was because as an executive at WGBB, the station doesn't want you to feel that what i say represents the sentiment of everyone. This is only partially true. The other part is that i am still reaching my own conclusion about who to vote for. I have been sincere about the significance of your registering and voting (when i said i didn't want to tell you who to vote for, just that you should vote). However, here is my sincere opinion. I do not trust John McCain or Hillary Clinton because the same azzes they kiss today are the ones they did battle with in the past. Barack Obama is not the best candidate running, but of the two perceived to be the most viable he is certainly the better. That and i am VERY moved by the possibility of a biracial or black president. To me Cynthia McKinney is the best candidate, however i am still wrestling with the 'spoiler' vote thing.

Again, i encourage you to vote for whoever moves you. Do your own knowledge, all the candidates have an internet presence. (In case you are taking notes, Ron Paul and the rest of the candidates i haven't mentioned don't move me, and as much as Ralph Nader does, McKinney/Clemente does more.) With that said, the Green party is working hard to get on the ballot across the country, if what McKinney/Clemente has to say moves you, help them with that. If we are to assume Obama/Biden is the only viable option, i have a few suggestions. Now i trust Obama wouldn't have gotten this far without good advisors and some deal making, but in my humble opinion, here are some other things he (as the other candidates, for that matter) needs to be mindful of:

1. They tried to co-opt Obama's message of change. How can McCain run .. if he represents and is successor to, those who created the problems he claims to want to change?

2. How can McCain run on family values if he cheated on and left his wife when she needed him. Only to marry a sugar mommy? How can Palin be opposed to abortions but let her daughter choose whether or not to have one?

3. How can McCain be a man of the people when the people either can't afford a house or can't afford to keep the one they have, while he can't remember how many houses he has?

4. What is the Republican party's obsession with choosing criminals (McCain also did battle with ethics charges in the past) as their leaders while turning whole ethnic groups of innocent people (if only in public perception) into criminals?

5. Does being born in the Panama Canal region count as being born in America?

6. If they are serious about reducing oil dependence than why the balloon tsunami at the end of the RNC? (RIP to all called home in the tsunami a few years ago.)

7. If what Bush did was so right (that McCain cosigned on it 90% of the time) why was he only at the convention once to speak (via satellite) and in spirit a second time when McCain gave an acceptance speech that seemed plagiarized from one of Bush's acceptance speeches?

8. I seriously hope that the notion that womben would vote for McCain/Palin strictly because the latter has an inny instead of an outy is nothing more than a sexist fear tactic. Because if it has ANY credence it is one of the worst examples of voting against one's interests that we have seen in recent memory.

9. With the talk turning to conservatives wanting to vote for Palin/McCain instead of the actual ticket, am i the only one wondering if they gave McCain the nod expecting he wouldn't be around long just so they could have a leaner meaner MUCH MORE conservative president in Palin?

Again, these are merely some observations i offer you. Now i trust you to do what you as an intelligent and wise elder see as the best move. Whatever you do, do it acknowledging and standing in the power that we all have been blessed with and knowing that what others do is on them. Choose wisely, the ancestors and next generations are watching... No pressure. Lol.

One Love,
Curry Kid



Ps. FYI...

This Saturday's OFF THE TOP will be dedicated to:
2Pac
Dorothy Dandridge


Service resumes on the O Express this week. Get your token now.


Be sure to catch the rest of the OFF THE TOP Family of radio shows.

The OFF THE Top Snipe Tape series is your weeknight escape. If you miss part of OTTR, you might be able to catch it during the Snipe Tape Series. Tuesday and Thursday nights at 11 (Eastern) keep your ear on OFFtheTOPradio.com and 1240 WGBB.

Join Curry Kid as he and WGBB's Program Director (Tom Ross) meet in the WGBB Programming suite. Catch their perspective on the Question of the Week and related issues of the day on OTTExtra. Check it live on Sunday mornings (immediately after OTTR) or later in the week (check AM1240WGBB.com for exact air times).

And if you can't keep track of all that, search your favorite podcast portal for 'OTTR,' or just go to OFFtheTOPradio.com

OFF THE TOP features commentary from Mumia Abu-Jamal ("Mouth of Mumia"), Queen Nefertari, Curry Kid and 20 or more of the illest Hip Hop records currently available to radio.

Share your thoughts... Learn with us... Grow with us... Build with us.

When we are on the air, check in by calling (631-888-88-11) or going to the 'Holla Black' section on the OTTR site.

Listen on the OTTR site or on 1240 WGBB (Strong Island/NYC area)...



OFF THE TOP is the Soundtrack to The Struggle.

http://www.offthetopradio.com


Proudly produced by PAZ PRODUCTIONS... Quality Hip Hop Media since 1991.




><><><


Family,

Long time member of the OTTR Extended Family, Ayana Soyini posted the following to another section of this site. In the interest of everyone being able to read and chime in i am reposting it here and will include my response in a separate post.

One,
Curry



"I'll build with you about this a little later...but Hip Hop isn't just about progressive messages...whether we want to admit this or not...it never has been and never will be. I'm not necessarily mad at that. I would just like to see more of a balance as far as what is heavily promoted. Though some artists are political, Hip Hop artists aren't politicians... and sometimes I think that's what you want every Hip Hop artist to be. That is not fair however because ultimately Hip Hop is abut expression...and every person expresses themselves differently. LL has been one of the most consistent emcees in the game and is a LEGEND. From day one Hip Hop has always included party songs along with Black men professing their masculinity often times using the playa/hustler/pimp analogy. To disregard this fact is to not fully understand and embrace Hip Hop as a whole. Whether you like that style or not is not the point as music is very subjective and a matter of personal opinion and taste. But to think that somehow that particular style of music isn't Hip Hop is revisionism and does a disservice to not only Hip Hop but the Black community. That is why you get criticism sometimes I think...because your views can be somewhat narrow minded.



Said with love of course! ;-)"

In light of the recent transitioning of Dr Dre's seed, we ask...

"Why do most parents feel its unnatural for a child to transition before their parents?"


Meditate on the Question of The Week... Now put down your pencils and pick up your cell phones. Speak on it now (via myspace or holla@offthetopradio.com) or on the air this Saturday night (after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

You might also desire to be among those 'Kickin' It With The Queen?' Queen Nefertari wants to help you work through your questions of love and relationships. Slide her a question now (TheQueen@OFFtheTOPradio.com) or live on the air (again, after midnight Eastern, Saturday night/Sunday morning... 631-888-88-11).

This week OFF THE TOP is dedicated to:
Andre Young
The Victims of Hurricane Katrina
Disco King Mario
Huey P Newton


Sleep Friday night, because Saturday nights are a wrap...

Service resumes on the O Express this week. Get your token now.


Be sure to catch the rest of the OFF THE TOP Family of radio shows.

The OFF THE Top Snipe Tape series is your weeknight escape. If you miss part of OTTR, you might be able to catch it during the Snipe Tape Series. Tuesday and Thursday nights at 11 (Eastern) keep your ear on OFFtheTOPradio.com and 1240 WGBB.

Join Curry Kid as he and WGBB's Program Director (Tom Ross) meet in the WGBB Programming suite. Catch their perspective on the Question of the Week and related issues of the day on OTTExtra. Check it live on Sunday mornings (immediately after OTTR) or later in the week (check AM1240WGBB.com for exact air times).

And if you can't keep track of all that, search your favorite podcast portal for 'OTTR,' or just go to OFFtheTOPradio.com

OFF THE TOP features commentary from Mumia Abu-Jamal ("Mouth of Mumia"), Queen Nefertari, Curry Kid and 20 or more of the illest Hip Hop records currently available to radio.

Share your thoughts... Learn with us... Grow with us... Build with us.

When we are on the air, check in by calling (631-888-88-11) or going to the 'Holla Black' section on the OTTR site.

Listen on the OTTR site or on 1240 WGBB (Strong Island/NYC area)...



OFF THE TOP is the Soundtrack to The Struggle.

http://www.offthetopradio.com


Proudly produced by PAZ PRODUCTIONS... Quality Hip Hop Media since 1991.