 Michie Mee
Recording Artist / Actress
Toronto, ON
http://www.myspace.com/michiemeemedia |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
For me, getting back in the game on radio across Canada . . . lookout for the video! Recording in the US and Jamaica and not having to explain our love for music or direction as fans of hip-hop, refer to Kardinal's style and hook up with Akon . . . people were telling me about Canada . . . It's about time. Stay tuned!
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
Tomasi’s single, Kardinal's, and Drake’s new single! |
 DJ Kemo
DJ / Producer
Vancouver, B.C.
http://www.myspace.com/djkemo |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
Kardinal breaking out in the US!
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
"Dangerous" of course! VANGUARDS nigga! |
 Drake
Recording Artist / Actor
Toronto, ON
http://www.myspace.com/thisisdrake |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
2008 birthed a new generation of young talented artists . . . also K-Os inking a new deal.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
"Still Fly" by Page. |
 Spesh K
Recording Artist
Halifax, NS
http://www.myspace.com/spesh_k |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
Classified signing to Sony was huge for East coast artists.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
"Fades Away" by Saukrates. |
 Bishop Brigante
Recording Artist / Actor / Entrepreneur
Toronto, ON
http://www.myspace.com/bishopbrigante |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
That's a toss up between Lil' Wayne rapping Drake's lyrics at the award show and Drake recently signing to Interscope.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
The best single of the year was Page featuring Drake, "Still Fly". It didn't need to be the most lyrical record; it was just a dope ass club record that everyone loved. It was an undeniable hit. If Page had the same backing "Dangerous" had for "Still Fly", it would have shot through the roof! |
 Organik (King of the Dot)
Recording Artist / Entrepreneur
Toronto, ON
http://www.kingofthedot.com |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
Kid Twist winning the Scribble Jam prelims in Cincinnati and then making it to the Quarter Finals against TheSaurus.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
“We Lurkin’” by Mayhem Morearty and Gangis Khan AKA Camoflauge. |
 Ewan "the Jade Emperor" Mill
Entrepreneur / Radio Host
Halifax, NS
http://www.myspace.com/ghettoblasterinc |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
Witnessing and participating in the growth and continuation of Under Pressure 2008 (expansion of a Saturday segment; strong support and involvement as usual; and AG showed up and headlined . . . AG!).
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
"Young Nation (Remix)" by Tru-Paz. |
 Fenom
Recording Artist / Songwriter / Lyricist
Winnipeg, MB
http://www.myspace.com/itsfenom |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
For me, it was Kardinal Offishall finally getting his due. He did for Canadian hip-hop artists what Obama did for black Americans, which was to prove that any thing is possible with hard work and dedication and that folks can say what they want to say, but in the end, YOU determine how far YOU go!
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
My favorite Canadian hip-hop single was (and currently is) "Trouble" by Classified . . . I'm expecting my dude to touch the sky off his new release! Big up! |
 Thomas Quinlan
Label Owner / Journalist
Toronto, ON
http://www.handsolorecords.com |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
For me, the defining moment was actually consistently numerous moments that ran throughout the year from hip-hop message board to hip-hop message board, and from hip-hop website to hip-hop website as ignorant Americans once again mocked, ridiculed and talked shit about Canadian hip-hop despite the fact that they have no idea what they're talking about. How this defines Canadian hip-hop in 2008 is that it continues to show how difficult it is for Canadian emcees to be taken seriously south of the border (and even sometimes in their own country). How disappointing.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
I'm going to have to go with D-Sisive's "Brian Wilson" just inching ahead of the Red Ants's "Keep Your Satellites Out of My Brain". |
 Dillin Hoox
Recording Artist
Ottawa, ON
http://www.myspace.com/dillinhoox |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
Multiple Canadian artists getting recognition internationally. Progress is being made all around and it's only going to get bigger and better in '09.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
“Brother (Watching)” by Shad K, produced by AmiR. |
 Tara Muldoon
Journalist / Entrepreneur
Toronto, ON
http://www.HipHopCanada.com |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
The Stylus Awards weekend . . . Canada’s finest was outstanding!
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
“Shorty Grindin’” by Bishop Brigante, JD Era and Drake, produced by Spinz! |
 Concise (Defenders of the Faith)
Recording Artist
Vancouver, B.C.
http://www.defendersmusic.ca |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
The most defining moment in '08 for me has to be November 11th . . . the day my album dropped on iTunes!
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
My favourite Canadian single was "Dangerous" by Kardi . . . 'cause it was such a big record. |
 Justin Gunderson (Dynamic)
Radio Host / Recording Artist
Ottawa, ON
http://www.hiphopcanada.com/thebrlshow |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
Most defining moment would have been when I heard Dr. Dre on the remix of "Set It Off" from Kardinal. I knew Canada was on to something finally.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
Favourite Canadian single was Point Blank "TO 2 OT". |
 Matt Garner AKA Dutch
CEO of Escape Entertainment
Montreal, QC
http://www.escapemtl.ca |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
I think my favourite moment for Canadian hip-hop is as simple as seeing all our home-grown talent stepping their games up big time. We are now marketing ourselves properly and really starting to get our Canadian talent exposed on an international level which is much deserved, and honestly, years past due.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
My favourite single of 2008 would have to be Luu Breeze’s “Break Em Off” from a Canadian perspective; he really stood out to me on that one and I think with a bigger budget that song would have taken off in the American market. And of course Magnum 357’s “Drop 4 Me” which is having so much success in Montreal and is helping bring local support back to a town who has lost the love for hip-hop. |
 Jesse Dangerously
Halifax Rap Legend
Ottawa, ON
http://www.myspace.com/jessedangerously |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
Maybe it's too obvious coming from me, but Buck 65's Dirtbike Trilogy - three albums created and released for free within two months . . . was one of the most inspiring events in hip-hop PERIOD for 2008, and by far the best thing Buck's done in the last decade in my opinion. Freed from major label constraints and concerns over samples and sufficient sales, his writing and production soared to heights only hinted at even on last year's excellent Situation.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
I don't remember 2008 being a really great year for singles from anywhere, let alone Canada. I guess Cadence Weapon's “Real Estate” or Wordburglar's “The Route”, but those aren't exactly new songs. Oh... D-Sisive had good shit but I'll be damned if I can remember a title! |
 Ty Harper
Producer / Host of OTA Live! (Flow 93.5 FM)
Toronto, ON
http://www.myspace.com/otalive |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
In Toronto, it would have to be the impact of Page’s “Still Fly” on the local club scene. With minimal commercial spins and promo it’s become arguably the biggest local club song in Toronto hip-hop history (Yes, I said it!). I’ve been a part of this city’s club scene for over 15 years and I have NEVER seen a local song get the type of forwards “Still Fly” is getting right now. It’s this generation’s “Bakardi Slang”, this generation’s “Backbone” but most importantly, it’s the first visible sign there’s not only a new era of local artists carrying the torch, but a new generation of local fans wholeheartedly embracing their city’s hip-hop movement. |
 Tyson Watcher AKA Metropolis Votary
Artist / Entrepreneur
Halifax, NS / Toronto, ON
http://www.myspace.com/metropolisvotary |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
In my perspective, Kardinal Offishall signing with Akon was likely the most significant occurrence in Canadian hip-hop over the past year. I felt that it was important because it demonstrated Canadian hip-hop's ability to transcend borders in more ways than one. The fact that Akon had been a fan of Kardinal was interesting for me because Kardi is somebody who has openly rejected the restrictions placed on him by major labels. The Kill Bloodclot Bill mixtape really explored his feelings regarding this, as after his first album he discovered (as many people do) he was only receiving a small percentage of his album sales, and actually owed MCA Records money for the production which was offered to him. Though he has worked with many mainstream artists (even appearing on Wu-Tang’s Remix for Careful "click click") this was the first time I really was able to hear his music across borders. Visiting the USA and the Caribbean over the past year, I heard him featured on the radio a significant amount, and I think it is important for opening the door to more Canadian talent, and shows that it is possible without compromising ambitions, goals, style etc. This also is useful in showing the diversity of Canadian talent because sadly, outside of our country most people are unaware of the cultural mosaic Canadians live in.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
Well, if I have to choose one that I had nothing to do with, then I would probably say "Trouble" by Classified, because he is still an artist on the rise, but has been on the grind for at least the last 10 years. This is his newest single and pretty fresh but it’s hard to keep track of what’s new or not. Also, the video is pretty dope. |
 Lexington
Recording Artist / Producer / Director
Calgary, AB
http://www.myspace.com/olivehour |
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
Hip-Hop in the Park (Edmonton) and Summer Fling (Saskatoon) . . . same shit, different city. All I remember about last summer is shot-gunning tons of beers with some of the dopest musicians in the world and then getting to watch them rap.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
"Dirty Space Alchemy" by Red Ants. |
 The Dirty Sample
Producer / Recording Artist
Calgary, AB
http://www.myspace.com/thedirtysample |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
Shad being nominated for a Juno; finally an artist who deserves a nomination [but] unfortunately he lost.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
"Brian Wilson" by D-Sisive. Brian Wilson. Incredible track. |
 Jay Devonish
Label Manager (KOCH Entertainment)
Toronto, ON
http://www.kochcan.com |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
I'd say international exposure via Kardi and Drake. They've helped show that Canada has something to offer on an international level. |
 Tona
Recording Artist
Toronto, ON
http://www.myspace.com/tonamusic |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
Kardinal’s performance on 106 & Park earlier this year.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
Saukrates - Fades Away |
 DJ P-Plus
DJ / Radio Host (The Real Frequency, Flow 93.5 FM)
Toronto, ON
http://www.therealfrequency.com |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
Kardinal’s record sales and the rise of Drake; Canadian hip-hop finally ran out of excuses. No one with international acclaim, no one can do it and still live and rep the city, no one can do it with "just hip-hop", no can have a successful single.... blah blah blah. Kardinal proved all those facts wrong. He does live in the city, and reps Toronto to the death. He does have international acclaim and respect, Kardinal’s single went platinum. But yet, in his own home town he only did a certain amount of sales which I will leave nameless. Nameless for the simple fact that, as a country we are getting closer to international success from true canadian talent . . . Kardinal and Drake definitely represent this. However, as a country, we still need to respond to what's going on in our own backyard. Drake has the buzz of the whole world watching him. But how long will it take for our country to respond the same way . . . Cali Snipes, Luu Breeze, Frankie Payne, Mayhem Morearty, Tona, Famous, Promise . . . the same way that ATL will responds to Gucci Mane, to me these artists are all at the same level buzz wise. The only difference is, they get major support from there own!
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
“Reach” by Frankie Payne and “Still Fly” by Page featuring Drake. |
 The Narcicyst of Euphrates
Recording Artist / Mystery / Journalist
Montreal, QC
http://www.myspace.com/euphrates |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
Without being self-indulgent, I think the most defining moment in my Canadian hip-hop experience was when Busta Rhymes called me and apologized for “Arab Money”. It showed me that an underground artist can use the internet to reach one of the greats. It also shows me how hip-hop can be used to educate/shed light on the misconceptions of religion, race, class and gender. Reinvigorated my belief in hip-hop.
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
“All Fair” by Rugged Intellect featuring Kool G Rap. |
 Hunter Pearson / DJ Hunt
DJ (hunt.FM) / Producer / Engineer
Vancouver, BC
http://www.hunt.fm | http://www.passdamictv.com |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop? What was your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
Question 1 and 2 go hand-in-hand with each other . . . it has to be Kardinal Offishall's smash hit of the summer, “Dangerous” accompanying the release of his latest album Not 4 Sale. The single absolutely BLEW UP! In Canada . . . in North America . . . and all over the world! It was a historic achievement for a Canadian hip-hop artist and ground-breaking for the Vancouver production crew behind the music, the Vanguards. Notable mentions go to the steady quality single and video releases from Shad . . . our introduction to the now ubiquitous Famous and a long-overdue record from veterans Defenders of the Faith (Checkmate and Concise). Also, Drake continues to make moves, but I think we have yet to hear his best. I'd say watch for him in '09! |
 Omar Mouallem
Freelance Writer / Critic (Exclaim! Magazine)
Edmonton, AB
http://www.assaultofknowledge.com |
In your opinion, what was 2008's most defining moment for Canadian hip-hop?
The comeback of D-Sisive, and his album The Book, which was my favourite of the year (not to mention the two singles also released).
Your favourite Canadian hip-hop single of 2008?
"The Old Prince Still Lives at Home" by Shad. |
Copyright, licensing and royalty issues continue to be important as we move into the next wave of digital licensing both in Canada and abroad. The establishment of the IDLA in Canada and Merlin in the UK were important steps in creating independent licensing bodies for digital and other product. CIRPA has been involved as a facilitator in both projects.
