broken cool.

Video: Noreaga Speaks On The Pros and Cons Of Being An Independent Artist

5 Things A Hip-Hop Artist Should Do Before Performing Live For The First Time

So you've got a little buzz going and it's time for your first live show. You're ready to go and are amped to rock the stage...or are you ready? A live show in 2013 is an integral part of your overall package as an artist. Here are 5 Things A Hip-Hop Artist Should Do Before Performing Live For The First Time.

Speak On It: How A "Crooked Smile" Means Longevity

J. Cole doesn't give a shit what you think. Hell, J. Cole doesn't even care if he has a Jay-Z feature...and he's signed to Roc Nation!

Cole is a unique artist in that he got the "big deal" with Hov and friends but refused to make anything but good music. Cole's debut album "Cole World: The Sideline Story" shunned EDM and corny singles in favour of a solid Hip-Hop album...dope, personal lyrics over strong production. The album went Gold yet somehow J. Cole still wasn't a superstar. He was still that son Roc Nation and Hov didn't really talk about it.

Is this Kanye West's Inspiration for "New Slaves?"

An artist by the name of Joyner Lucas released his video for the song "in 1 peace" this past January (2013). Is it just me or does this video and even the song scream "New Slaves?"

10 Things You Need Before Embarking On A Rap Career

So you've decided to embark on a Rap career. You're braver than me...then again, I can't Rap. And that's just one of many things you need to know (whether or not you can Rap) before embarking on a career in music. Too many people jump into things (music or otherwise) before truly understanding what they need to be successful. Here are 10 Things You Need Before Embarking On A Rap Career.

Photos: Connor Evans Shoots New Video in Brooklyn

This weekend, Connor Evans shot the video for his new single "Issues" in Brooklyn. The song is the next single from Connor's upcoming album "The Road to Coachella" releasing in June. The album's first single, "Hipsters & PrimaDonnas" Feat. Shawn Chrystopher is out now.

"Issues" is powerful (yet unbelievably catchy) and sees Connor's delivering deeply personal lyrics.

Hit the jump for more flicks from the shoot.

Projection Advertising Responsible for European "New Slaves" Screenings

As Kanye's wildly popular (and controversial) "New Slaves" screenings continue throughout the world, the company behind the screenings in Europe is talking about working with Mr. West.

Documentary "DEMOS: An Independent Artist’s Guide To Success" to Debut in NYC May 31 - June 6

Reem Docs and the Steel Magnolia Group announce the official theatrical debut of the documentary, DEMOS: An Independent Artist’s Guide To Success with a week-long engagement at New York City’s newest premium cultural arts space, MIST Harlem, from May 31- June 6, 2013.

Lord Yeezus: How Kanye Buzzed the World with the Release of "New Slaves"

Genius. That pretty much sums up the premiere of Kanye West's new video and single "New Slaves." Not only is the song one of Kanye's best ever, but the decision to premiere the video via projection at 66 locations around the world last night is sheer marketing perfection. Not only is it unique, but it's massively viral and instantly makes Kanye's new song an event rather than just a single.

Why Doesn't Elliott Wilson Like Me? How Your Focus Is Wrong In Promoting Your Music To Blogs

You're doing it wrong. When it comes to most Rap artists promoting their music to blogs, the focus is wildly narrow. An expansion of this focus can benefit the artist greatly in gaining traction with the blogsphere and promoting their music.