The MoveMint: It's a place where Hip Hop can call home. It's a space where freestyling is the "word" to go.
It's where fierce "battles" take place. What more do you want? It's a rap.
This week, this column takes a look at DJ-ing and MC-ing, two big elements synonymous with Hip Hop.

Artist Feature: DJ Reeve

Q: What's the best thing about being a DJ to you?
A: Looking at hundreds of people dancing to my tunes every night. That motivates me.

Q: What do you think a DJ's role in the industry should be?
A: To educate the masses and equip new comers with proper knowledge in Dj-ing.

Q: Where do you see yourself in a year's time?
A: Juggling next to DJ Jazzy Jeff; no, just kidding. Internationally known, flying abroad on a monthly basis for a spin off.

"MC Master Class with MC Zain Azrai"
How to work with producers

When working with a producer on a song, an MC needs to identify four elements: 1) The song's target audience, 2) The theme, atmosphere and emotion of the lyrics, 3) The pace and rhythm of the vocal delivery and 4) How this song's beat will compliment the rest of the track list and contribute to the overall theme and sound of the album.

The MC must discuss with the producer how the beat can fulfil these elements and be open to feedback so the producer's technical and compositional skill can be fully exploited to make a great final product.

Most Malaysian MCs treat producers like machine operators and just give orders on how they want the beat to sound without having much skill in music composition themselves, so these elements are barely fulfilled, resulting in lack lustre product.

An MC cannot be fully objective about his own rap because it is his baby, so the producer's role is to understand the MC's strengths and weaknesses, and make a beat that works around his shortcomings and builds on his positive traits. By treating the producer like a slave instead of an equal collaborator, the producer can't do his job to make a great song for you.

Events:

GilaMonstarz Album Launch @ Helo Bali - January 23, 2010
Cypher Sundaze @ Cloth & Clef - January 24, 2010
Bud Culture's Dubkam @ Palate Palette - January 29, 2010
Smash @  Blanc Le Club - January 22 & 29, 2010
The Get Up @ Rootz - January 23 and 30, 2010

Believe The Hype: New acts to look out for
Nneka
http://www.nnekaworld.com/

Jay Electronica
http://www.myspace.com/jayelectronica

Joell Ortiz
http://joellortiz.wordpress.com/