OZONE AWARDS & TJs DJs TASTEMAKERS SPECIAL EDITION

DAVID BANNER
NO MORE MR. NICE GUY

10MAGAZINE IS THE SHIT REASONS OZONE

WITH OZONE AWARD NOMINEES:

BUN B * CHAMILLIONAIRE KHIA * LIL SCRAPPY * MAGNO RICK ROSS * DJ DRAMA * DJ KHALED TOO $HORT * KILLER MIKE * E-40 * DRE FIELD MOB * JACKI-O * KAMIKAZE * B.G. PAUL WALL * PITBULL * BOHAGON * RAPID RIC * SLIM THUG TRAE * TREAL * TRICK DADDY * UNCLE LUKE * YOUNG CASH YOUNG JEEZY * YUNG JOC * PRETTY RICKY * T-PAIN & MORE

OZONE AWARDS & TJS DJS TASTEMAKERS SPECIAL EDITION

OZONE MAGAZINE IMA MAKE IT HAPPEN, IMA MAKE A WAY OZONE AWARDS 2006

LIL WAYNE
10 REASONS OZONE MAGAZINE IS THE SHIT
BUN B * CHAMILLIONAIRE RICK ROSS * DAVID BANNER DJ DRAMA * DJ KHALED * DRE TOO $HORT * KILLER MIKE * E-40 FIELD MOB * JACKI-O * KAMIKAZE KHIA * B.G. * LIL SCRAPPY * MAGNO PAUL WALL * PITBULL * BOHAGON RAPID RIC * SLIM THUG * T-PAIN TRAE * TREAL * TRICK DADDY UNCLE LUKE * YOUNG CASH YOUNG JEEZY * YUNG JOC PRETTY RICKY & MORE
WITH OZONE AWARD NOMINEES:

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tjs djs tastemakers & ozone awards itinerary

Friday August 4, 2006
10 AM - until On-Site Registration at Host Hotel Ivanhoe Plaza/Sheraton Hotel 60 S. Ivanhoe Blvd. downtown Orlando, FL

*subject to change

Don Diva Magazine), Wendy Day (CEO, Rap Coalition), & Wendy Washington (Senior Vice President of Media Relations, Universal Records) 1:30 PM Manish Man presents the DJ Crew Panel panelists: 1st Lady El (CEO, Murda Mamis), Cristal Bubblin (Vice President, Bumsquad DJz), DJ Mars (CEO, SuperFriends), Kaspa (CEO, Hittmenn DJs) Scrap Dirty (CEO, Violator All-Star DJs), & Tony Neal (CEO, The CORE DJs) 1:30 PM Bossman presents the Media Panel panelists: Carl Chery (SOHH.com), Cavario Hodges (Don Diva Magazine), Jesus Trivino (Senior Editor, Scratch Magazine), Kraze (CEO, All Access DVD), Matt Sonzala (Murder Dog Magazine), Maurice Garland (Music Editor, OZONE Magazine), N. Ali Early (Editor-In-Chief, Grip Magazine), Rahman Dukes (MTV News/Mixtape Mondays) 4 PM Jathar Diamonds presents the Artist Panel panelists: David Banner, Juelz Santana, Killer Mike, Pimp C, Slim Thug, T-Pain, Webbie & more TBA 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM DJ Suite Parties / Listening Sessions (DJ CREDENTIAL REQUIRED FOR ACCESS) - Bad Boy/Atlantic Records Suite Party with 8Ball & MJG - Asylum Records Suite Party with Lil Flip - Jive Records Suite Party with Dre & M.O.S. 8 PM - 10 PM - Tastemakers Only Showcase Club at Firestone 578 N. Orange Ave. downtown Orlando, FL with DJ-exclusive Serato & laptop raffle performances by Trillville, Mr. Magic, Tampa Tony, J-Shin, Young A & more 10 PM - 3 AM - Tastemakers Only Afterparty Club at Firestone Lil Wayne & many more celebrity guests will be in the building Music by Cool Runnings, Disco & the City Boyz, Emperor Searcy, & Supastar J-Kwik Registered members of the conference are admitted free until MIDNIGHT. 3 AM until - Late Night Suite Party at Host Hotel - TBA

*all panels and suite parties take place at Host Hotel unless otherwise noted*
2 PM Musik Boxx presents the Producers Panel panelists: Cool & Dre, DJ Toomp, Jim Jonsin, Khao, KLC, Mr. Collipark, Nitti, & The Runners 2 PM No Name Necessary presents the Technology Panel panelists: Corey Llewellen (Digiwaxx), Donya Floyd (AOL Radio), Roslynn Cobarrubias (Myspace.com), Jamie Chvotkin (CDBaby.com), Wendy Day (CEO, Rap Coalition) & more TBA 3:30 PM b.i.G.f.a.c.e. Entertainment presents the Indie Executives Panel panelists: Bryan Leach (TVT), Chaka Zulu (CEO, DTP Records), Jason Geter (CEO, Grand Hustle), Ted Lucas (CEO, Slip-N-Slide Records), Mike Clarke (Swishahouse), Uncle Luke (CEO, Luke Records), & Vince Phillips (CEO, BME Records) 3:30 PM - Royal Blunts presents the DJ Panel panelists: Brandi Garcia, Clinton Sparks, DJ Chuck T, DJ Jelly, DJ Nasty, DJ Wally Sparks, Green Lantern, & Greg Street 5-7 PM DJ Suite Party/Listening Sessions (DJ CREDENTIAL REQUIRED FOR ACCESS) - Koch Records Suite Party w/ DJ Unk & Baby D - Others TBA 7-10 PM Welcome to Florida Pool Party & Fashion Show hosted by Khao & Stay Fresh performances by Crime Mob, Chyna Whyte, B.H.I., Young Capone, THud, Mannish Man, & Da Mouf Records 10 PM - 3 AM - Interscope Records Official TJs DJs/OZONE Awards Kickoff Party Cairo Nightclub performances by Young Buck, Lloyd Banks, Slim Thug, Rich Boy, Jibbs, Obie Trice, Hot Rod, & Stat Quo Music by DJ Q45, Supastar J-Kwik & DJ Greg G Registered members of the conference are admitted free until MIDNIGHT. 3 AM until BME Records Late Night Suite Party at Host Hotel with Crime Mob, Chyna Whyte, B.H.I. & more

Sunday August 6, 2006

12 PM - 3 PM - OZONE Brunch - Location TBA 4 PM - 6 PM - OZONE Red Carpet With comedians Benji Brown & Roland Lil Duval Powell Livingston St. in front of the Bob Carr Auditorium 7 PM - 11 PM - 1st Annual OZONE Awards Bob Carr Auditorium 401 W. Livingston St., downtown Orlando, FL hosted by David Banner & Trina performances by Lil Wayne, T.I., Pimp C & Bun B, Trick Daddy, Pitbull, Rick Ross, Too $hort, Shawnna, T-Pain, Young Dro, Slim Thug, Trae, Yung Joc, Paul Wall & more appearances by 8Ball & MJG, Aztek, B.G., Bohagon, Bonecrusher, CamRon, Choppa, Crime Mob, DJ Khaled, ESG, Grandaddy Souf, JackiO, Juelz Santana, Khia, Killer Mike, Lil Boosie, Lil Flip, Lyfe Jennings, Obie Trice, Rich Boy, Roy Jones Jr. & 3D, Smitty, Sqad Up, Stat Quo, TV Johnny, Twista, Uncle Luke, Webbie, Young Cash, Young Jeezy, Yukmouth & many more 10 PM - 3 AM - Atlantic Records Official OZONE Awards Afterparty with Grand Hustle, Bad Boy Records, & Slip-N-Slide Club at Firestone 578 N. Orange Ave. downtown Orlando, FL performances by Young Dro, Plies, B.G. & many more TBA music by DJ Drama, DJ Khaled, DJ Nasty, & Disco & the City Boyz Registered members of the conference are admitted free until MIDNIGHT.

Saturday August 5, 2006

10 AM - until On-Site Registration at Host Hotel Ivanhoe Plaza/Sheraton Hotel

*all panels and suite parties take place at Host Hotel*

12 PM G-Mack of Lost Land Entertainment presents the A&R Panel panelists: Dart La (Director of A&R, Shady Records), Dino Delvaille (Senior VP of A&R, Sony BMG), James Eichelberger (Director of A&R, TVT Records), Joie Manda (Director of A&R & Promotions, Asylum Records), Kawan Prather (Executive VP of A&R, Sony Urban), MeMpHiTz (Director of A&R, Jive Records), Mike Caren (Senior VP of A&R, Atlantic Records), Shakir Stewart (VP of A&R, Def Jam), Shawn Holiday (Senior VP of A&R, Interscope Records), & Wes Phillips (Select-O-Hits) 12 PM Earthworm Clothing presents the Women In The Industry Panel panelists: Elora Mason (CEO, E. Mason & Associates), Jill Strada (Program Director, WPYO Power 95.3 Orlando), Kim Osorio (Editor-In-Chief, BET.com), Miss Info (On-Air Personality, Hot 97) Supa Cindy (Morning Show On-Air Personality, WEDR 99 Jamz Miami), Tiffany Chiles (CEO,

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meet our panelists

BRANDI GARCIA / DJ & radio personality, KBXX-Houston DJ Panel (Houston, TX) The bit of sunshine Brandi Garcia took from her native state of Florida has paved a bright future. Garcia worked the radio ladder to become the proud owner of Houstons #1 night show on 97.9 The Box, host of the music video show Hot TV, creator of the sultry Southern Stilletto mix CD series, and becoming 2006 Southern Entertainment Awards Female DJ of the Year. A proud member of the Murder Mamis & NoizeMob, Garcia is en fuego! BRYAN LEACH / TVT Records Indie Exec Panel (New York, NY) Bryan was largely responsible for propelling acts like Lil Jon & the Eastside Boyz, the Ying Yang Twins, and Pitbull to national success during his time as VP of A&R at TVT Records. Now on the verge of launching his own label, Bryans thorough knowledge of the music business and hands-on approach to artist development will guarantee him success. CARL CHERY / SOHH.com Media Panel (New York, NY) CAVARIO HODGES / Don Diva Magazine Media Panel (Atlanta, GA) CHAKA ZULU / Co-CEO, Disturbing Tha Peace & Ebony Son Indie Exec Panel (Atlanta, GA) Chaka Zulu has been making his mark in the music industry for the past 10 years. Much like his namesake, Zulu relies on education and tenacity for success while giving back to his people. Chaka Zulu has worn many hats including Music Director for Atlantas Hot 97.5, radio promotions for Sony & Universal, and currently serves as Co-CEO and manager for entertainment icon Ludacris and the Disturbing Tha Peace brand. CLINTON SPARKS / DJ, Producer, Entrepreneur DJ Panel (Hartford, CT) Music is universal as Clinton Sparks proves through the syndication of his SmashTime Radio heard in the USA, Australia, Belgium, the Netherlands, Canada and on Sirius Satellites Shade 45. Sparks takes full advantage of his entrepreneurial skills with two merchandising websites MixUnit.com & FlixUnit.com. While cats from Kanye West, 50 Cent, Eminem, & Pharrell have all blessed his famous mixtapes, the world is just now getting familiar with Sparks the producer. And as Sparks continues to push it to the limit with a new album plus deals involving video games and Pepsi, the world is about to become very familiar with Clinton Sparks. COOL & DRE Producer Panel (Miami, FL) Production credits include Ja Rule f/ Jadakiss & Fat Joe New York New York, The Game f/ 50 Cent Hate It Or Love It, Christina Milian f/ Young Jeezy Say I, Juvenile Rodeo, and DJ Khaled f/ Paul Wall, Rick Ross, Pitbull, & Fat Joe Holla At Me. COREY LLEWELLYN / Digiwaxx.com Technology Panel (New York, NY) CRISTAL BUBBLIN / Vice President, Bum Squad DJz DJ Crew Panel DART PARKER / Dir. A&R, Shady Records A&R Panel (New York, NY) Most folks in the industry base signing new talent from charts and bandwagons, but true A&Rs such as Dart Parker rely on their ear and the conviction to stand behind the music they sign. Parker has trusted his instincts ever since leaving Raleigh, NC via Amtrak armed with $800 and a dream. Parker has continued living his dream beginning as a producer for DMX and De La Soul then eventually moving up to becoming Director of A&R for Shady Records, signing Stat Quo and Ca$his to the house Em built. DJ CHUCK T / DJ & CEO, Port City Productions DJ Panel (Charleston, SC) Frustrated with the lack of opportunities available to independent artists, Chuck T dropped his mic and picked up the turntable. He decided to fight the game from within the system and has opened doors for many artists in and around his hometown of Charleston, SC though his mixtape series, Ghetto Gangsters including dropping 45 titles in one year! DJ Chuck T has already had coverage in The Source, Ozone Magazine, Scratch Magazine, and MTVs Mixtape Mondays to name a few. His hard work is paying off as DJ Chuck T was nominated for 14 Southern Entertainment Awards in his first year of eligibility and looks forward to watching his label Port City Productions become a super power in the music industry. DJ JELLY - DJ Panel (Atlanta, GA) DJ MARS / Founder, World Famous Superfriends DJ Crew (Atlanta, GA) As the President and founding member of the World Famous Superfriends Crew, DJ Mars single handedly changed the DJ scene in Atlanta. While attending Clark Atlanta University, DJ Mars started his career DJing in the cafeteria during dinner for only $75. Mars went from being Outkasts original DJ to touring with Usher. Currently Mars is living the life of legends and happily on tour with Ciara. DJ NASTY / DJ & Producer, Nasty Beatmakers DJ Panel (Orlando, FL) Now that his partner DJ Prostyle has departed for NYC and BET, Nasty virtually holds a DJ monopoly on the city of Orlando, dominating radio and clubs. Widely considered one of the best on the ones & twos, Nasty and his brother LVM have also used their industry connections to venture into production. Their tracks have appeared on albums by everyone from Camron to Ludacris. DJ TOOMP Producer Panel (Atlanta, GA) Production credits include T.I.s Dope Boyz, U Dont Know Me, Motivation, What U Know, Be Easy, and Ludacris Two Miles An Hour. DJ WALLY SPARKS / DJ, syndicated DJ Panel (Chattanooga, TN) Once upon a time Wally Sparks was OZONE Magazines music editor, but he left us to pursue his true love 24/7: DJing and breaking new music. He can currently be heard on 3 commercial radio stations in 3 different states in addition to his own weekly show on Sirius Satellite Radio entitled League Crew Radio. Wally Sparks currently has globally distributed mixtapes featuring big names such as Ludacris, Chamillionaire, Yung Joc, Trae, and 8Ball & MJG. DONYA FLOYD / Programmer, AOL Radio Network Technology Panel (New York, NY) Donya Floyd programs nearly 40 urban music stations for the AOL Radio Network, including R&B, dancehall and gospel acting as a liaison between AOL Music and labels and artists. In addition to her radio responsibilities, she is a contributor to AOL Musics news and feature articles, AIM interviews and Sessions. Ms. Floyds background includes programming and on-air stints at WOWI-FM in Norfolk, WPGC 95.5 FM in Washington, DC, and WUSL Power 99 FM in Philadelphia. Most recently, she also appeared as a weekly entertainment news contributor on Philadelphias top-rated TV station, NBC-10. ELORA MASON / Founder, E. Mason & Associates Women In the Industry Panel (Atlanta, GA) Elora Mason is the founder and CEO of E. Mason & Associates, a Miami based Events Management and Publicity Firm. She is also the co-founder of Young Florida Vote, a non-profit, non-partisan voter empower program and the Florida Entertainment Summit, Floridas most important entertainment networking summit. Elora, born in St. Croix, has worked with Atlantic Records, Bigga Rankin, Benji Brown, Caribbean Reggae Fest, DJ DEMP, DEMP Week, So South, Tarvoria, The Core DJs, The Core DJs Retreat, Trick Daddy, Trick Luvs Da Kids Foundation and a host of others. 1st LADY EL / Founder, Murda Mamis Ent - DJ Crew Panel (New York, NY) 1st Lady El is the architect of the largest collective of

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meet our panelists

women in the urban entertainment industry, The Murda Mamis. This prolific group covers all industry genres from DJs, recording artists, media personalities, producers, executives, journalists, and models including placements at MTV, Don Diva Magazine and power stations like KBXX-Houston to name a few. Lady El notes that I started Murda Mamis to unify women in Hip Hop. Women are very powerful and together we can be invincible. With a hustlers ambition this strong, the Murda Mamis will always be respected to the 1st degree. GREEN LANTERN DJ Panel (New York, NY) Aside from the infamous Jadakiss DVD incident which led to Greens dismissal from Eminems camp, Green is known for being one of the sickest mixtape DJs, dropping unique blends and exclusive songs regularly. GREG GATE$ DAVENPORT / Murder Dog - Media Panel (N. Florida) GREG STREET DJ Panel (Atlanta, GA) The Ultimate Hustler, Greg once balanced dual radio shows in Atlanta and Dallas and has expanded his brand to encompass car shows, sneaker shows, and other entrepreneurial ventures. JAMES EICHELBERGER / A&R, TVT Records A&R Panel (New York, NY) JASON GETER / Co-CEO, Grand Hustle Indie CEO Panel (Atlanta, GA) As both T.I.s manager and business partner, Jason can be largely credited with not only the success of T.I.s individual career, but the success of the label as a whole. Grand Hustle was responsible for the Hustle & Flow soundtrack and, in addition to the veteran P$C crew, recently brought in new acts like Young Dro and Yola who are set to follow in T.I.s footsteps and achieve worldwide success. JESUS TRIVINO ALARCON / Senior Editor, Scratch Magazine Media Panel (New York, NY) Jesus Trivino Alarcon has been apart of the Scratch Magazine family from the beginning as a founding editor of the DJ publication. Alarcon is not relegated to the desk as he has interviewed Nas, Kanye West, Willie Colon, Jay-Z while writing for Vibe, The Source, XXL, King, People.com and others. As a Brooklyn-born South American, Alarcon provides a unique experience that readers cant enjoy more. JILL STRADA / Program Director, WPYO Power 95.3 FM Women In The Industry Panel (Orlando, FL) Jill Strada is currently the Program Director of Orlando hip-hop station WPYO/Power 95.3. Jill entered the entertainment industry in January 1996 as a promotion intern at WJHM/102 Jamz in Orlando. In 1999, she became the Marketing Director of a new start up radio station in Orlando, WPYO/95.3 Party. Jill is always challenging herself, and over time she took on additional responsibilities in the stations programming department and added Assistant Program Director & Music Director to her title. Jill also believes that giving back is one thing that is missing in the industry, so she started up Stradagy Inc. a non-profit organization that fosters mentorship within the entertainment industry. JIM JONSIN - Producers Panel (Miami, FL) Formerly 1/2 of the Unusual Suspects duo with Big D, Jim has now branched off into a solo production career and also maintains an executive position at Southbeat Records. Production credits include Trick Daddy Lets Go, Pitbull f/ Piccalo Dammit Man, Jamie Foxx f/ Ludacris Unpredictable, Pretty Ricky Your Body, Pretty Ricky Grind With Me, and Trina f/ Kelly Rowland Here We Go. JOIE MANDA / Head of A&R & Promotions, Asylum Records - A&R Panel (New York, NY) Asylum, billed as an incubator label, serves as the umbrella for many successful indie labels like Swishahouse. As head of A&R, Joie is involved with projects from artists like Paul Wall, Mike Jones, Webbie, Lil Boosie, CamRon, and Bun B. KASPA / CEO, Hittmenn DJs (Atlanta, GA) KAWAN PRATHER / Executive VP of Sony Urban and Head A&R (New York, NY) Originally from Atlanta, KP first made his mark as an A&R by pairing Usher with Jermaine Dupri for the My Way album. He also discovered and signed T.I. and the YoungBloodz and signed them to LaFace Records long before the Southern movement was widely accepted. Now at Sony, his most recent signees include John Legend KHAO Producer Panel (Atlanta, GA) Production credits include Young Jeezy f/ Trick Daddy & Young Buck Last of a Dying Breed, T.I. Why U Wanna, T.I. Stand Up Guy, T.I. f/ P$C Limelight, Paul Wall f/ T.I. So Many Diamonds, and Lil Kim Get Yours. KIM OSORIO Editor, BET.com Although you may recognize her name as former editor of The Source during the Dave & Benzino days, Kim is now responsible for BETs online content. KLC / producer, Beats By the Pound & The Medicine Men Producers Panel (Baton Rouge, LA) Few producers can claim an entire place in time. KLC as a member of Beats By The Pound served as the backbone behind the No Limit movement that peaked at over 40 million units sold and opened a brand new sound. Today, as a member of The Medicine Men, KLC has produced for mega stars such as Ludacris and Mariah Carey while anticipating the release of the first release for The Medicine Mens Overdose/Asylum venture entitled KLC The Drum Major. KRAZE / CEO, All Access DVD (New York, NY) MATT SONZALA / Writer, Photographer, Promoter, Booker Media Panel (Houston, TX) Matt Sonzala is a writer/photographer/promoter/booking agent from Houston, TX. Hes been in the music game since the age of 16 when he first started promoting live events at clubs. Since then he has developed into THE voice for Houston hip-hop. While he is not affiliated with any artist officially, when you need to get at someone from Texas, you call Matt first. In recent years he has been published in Ozone, The Source, XXL and Vibe Magazine, and is currently booking artists like Devin the Dude and DJ Rapid Ric on tours of Europe, Canada, and the Pacific Rim. His weekly radio program - the wildly popular Damage Control Show with DJ Chill - is heard all over the world and is a direct link to everything going on in Dirty South Rap. MAURICE G. GARLAND / Music Editor, OZONE Magazine Media Panel (Atlanta, GA) After a stint working at Rolling Out, Maurice joined the OZONE team and has been responsible for several memorable spreads (20 Greatest Southern Albums, Bay Area Patiently Waiting, etc.). MICKEY MeMpHiTz WRIGHT / VP, A&R Jive; CEO, HiTz Committee A&R Panel (New York, NY) Arriving in New York fresh from his hometown of Memphis, Tennessee, Mickey Wright embarked on a journey fueled by faith and determination that would eventually lead him to becoming the most sought after golden ears of hip-hop. Wright released both the debut album of his latest signing, Tallahassee R&B singer/songwriter, T-Pain, as well as the YoungBloodZs third album, only a week apart. He is currently back in the studio, preparing releases with legendary Houston group UGK, J-Kwon, and newcomer M.O.S. (Money Over Sex), a rapper from Durham, NC. With his recent promotion to Vice President of A&R at Jive, Wrights eyes and ears are always poised for the next big thing, but he particularly cares more about real talent, potential stardom, and longevity. MIKE CAREN / Senior Vice President of A&R, Atlantic Records - A&R Panel (Los Angeles, CA)

and Ray Cash.

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MICHAEL CLARKE / VP, Swisha House; owner, M&M Music Indie Exec Panel (Houston, TX) Michael Clarke embarked on a career in the music industry before landing a coveted executive position at Swisha House Records. A proprietor of the family owned and operated M&M Music, Clarke assumed full responsibilities of manning and operating the award winning record store in 1996. Since joining the Swisha House family officially in 2003, Clarke has risen in ranks from a consultant to Vice President. Clarke expertly outlines the marketing and promotional procedures for all artists on the Swisha House roster simultaneously working in conjunction with the record company partners various departments to provide artists with optimal success. MIKE RIOS / Mixunit.com (Hartford, CT) MISS INFO / Journalist, Personality Hot 97 Women In The Industry Panel (New York, NY) Whether on radio, television, or print, Miss Info brings the same opinionated blend of wit, news, and gossip thats become her trademark. Born to Korean immigrants in Chicago, Miss Info moved to New York to join the staff at the Source Magazine. She has since written and edited for magazines such as Vibe, XXL, King, Mass Appeal, Rolling Stone, Glamour as well as MTV News and various shows on VH1. Recently, Miss Info joined New York Citys Hot 97 family, wrote a book, and still has time to pen a monthly Vibe column and give writing workshops. MR. COLLIPARK Producer Panel (Atlanta, GA) Also known as DJ Smurf, Collipark crafted the sound and progress of the Ying Yang Twins career and now is working with several new acts including P Stones and Homebwoi. He produced the infamous whisper song for the Ying Yang Twins as well as David Banners Play, Bubba Sparxxx Ms. New Booty, Bun Bs Git It, Pitbulls Shake, and dozens of other Ying Yang Twins hits. N. ALI EARLY / Editor at Large, Grip Magazine Media Panel (Atlanta, GA) A proud graduate of Clark Atlanta University, N. Ali Early began humbly with UrbanStyle Weekly serving as Music Editor for 2 years. Since then Early has set the world on fire with credits in XXL, The Source, Vibe, and more while still having time to launch his media umbrella, www.KreativeSouls. com. Now as Editor-At-Large for Grip Magazine, Early is optimistic knowing that the skys the limit as to what we can accomplish and we want it all. NITTI Producer Panel (Atlanta, GA) This is a Nitti beat, cmon, you had to have heard that at least a million times by now on the intro to Yung Jocs Its Goin Down. Nitti has also crafted beats for 8Ball, Young Jeezy, Rasheeda, and a crop of talented upcoming Atlanta artists. RAHMAN DUKES / MTV News - Media Panel (New York, NY) ROSLYNN COBARRUBIAS / NARIP, MySpace.com Technology Panel Roslynn Cobarrubias started Third Floor Radio in college in 1998 where she acted as host, producer and DJ. In July of 2004, she came to MySpace. While holding the position of Director of Marketing for the National Association of Record Industry Professionals (NARIP), Cobarrubias met Chris De Wolfe (CEO of MySpace.com) via her former boss, president of the network, Tess Taylor. The web community had just begun MySpace Music and only had 3.5 million users compared to the 90 million + that it has to date. Friends know her as a work-aholic that calls herself the traveling janitor. She prides herself most in the ability to help others and has a strong belief in coincidences after reading the Celestine Prophecy numerous times. SHAKIR STEWART / Senior VP of A&R, Island Def Jam A&R Panel (Atlanta, GA)

During Def Jams transition, Shakir helped maintain the labels reputation for breaking rap acts by signing bubbling talent like Young Jeezy and Rick Ross and helping their careers break on a national level. SHAWN HOLIDAY / Senior VP of A&R, Universal Records A&R Panel (Los Angeles, CA) SUPA CINDY / Personality, WEDR-Miami Women In The Industry Panel (Miami, FL) For the past 6 1/2 years Supa Cindy has kept the #1 spot in the Arbitron ratings. First with her partner Big Lip Bandit in the evenings and now for the last 2 years as part of the Big Lip Bandit in the A.M. Mornings Show. Along with holding the title as the most popular female radio personality in South Florida, Supa Cindy also has the responsibility of running her own non profit organization called Supa Friends whose main goal is to motivate and inspire young women. Supa Cindy plans to use her bilingual skills (thanks to her Haitian and Dominican parents) to broaden her resume with a new television venture. TED LUCAS / CEO, Slip-N-Slide Records Indie CEO Panel (Miami, FL) THE RUNNERS Production Panel (Orlando, FL) They got their big break with Rick Ross Hustlin and DJ Khaleds Born & Raised, and are now working with everyone from Lil Wayne to UGK. TIFFANY CHILES / CEO, Don Diva Magazine Media Panel (New York, NY) TONY NEAL / CEO, The CORE DJs DJ Crew Panel (Milwaukee, WI) After a rather vocal departure from the Tech.Nitions, Tony pushed forward to create his own DJ crew The CORE and has assembled an all-star cast of DJs and industry movers & shakers from across the country that moves as one unit. A former boxer, Tonys take-charge attitude has enabled him to build a strong, valuable army of DJs. UNCLE LUKE / CEO, Luke Records Indie Exec Panel (Miami, FL) A veteran in the game both as an artist and a businessman, Luke can provide valuable information of what to do and what not to do when running your own record label. VINCE PHILLIPS / Co-CEO, BME Indie Exec Panel (Atlanta, GA) In addition to his work as an entertainment attorney for some of the biggest names in Atlanta music, Vince owns BME along with Lil Jon, Rob Mac, and Emperor Searcy. The upstart label which launched Lil Jons career now boasts a promising roster that includes Lil Scrappy, Trillville, E-40, Chyna Whyte, Bohagon, B.H.I., and more. WENDY DAY / Founder, Rap Coalition - Women In The Industry Panel (Atlanta, GA) In chess, the Queen is the most powerful piece on the board. Likewise, Wendy Day runs the boardroom as if she wields the power, continuously crafting deals for the likes of Cash Money, No Limit, Eminem, and David Banner. Founder of the Rap Coalition, she is an advocate for artist rights and believes firmly in the adage knowledge is power. WENDY WASHINGTON / Senior VP of Media Relations, Universal Records Women In The Industry Panel (New York, NY) Once a law school student, Wendy now runs Universals media relations/publicity department. During her first years in the music industry, she helped Bad Boy launch Biggies career. Since then, shes been responsible for securing press coverage for everyone from A Tribe Called Quest to Nelly to Juvenile. WES PHILLIPS / Select-O-Hits (Memphis, TN)

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First Annual OZONE Awards: Sunday, August 6th at the Bob Carr Auditorium in downtown Orlando, FL
red carpet: 4-6 PM showtime: 7 PM

in association with TJs DJs Tastemakers Music Conference (August 4th-5th) visit www.ozonemag.com or www.tjsdjs.com to register for weekend passes to all events Tickets to the OZONE Awards are also available through www.ticketmaster.com
Nominees were selected by a panel of DJs, journalists, and other knowledgeable, non-biased individuals in the rap community. OZONE is widely known and respected as the premiere voice of Southern rap music, so its only right that our nominations this year are focused on Southern artists. Keep in mind that this years nominations are based solely on music released between May 1, 2005 and April 30, 2006.

BEST ALBUM - RAP

Bun B - Trill
The king of collaborations brought together the entire South for his perfectly-timed first solo album, even uniting Houston - if only for a few minutes - on the Draped Up remix.
Rap-A-Lot/Asylum

Juvenile - Reality Check

Facing with the challenge of adjusting to a new recording home and picking up his life after Katrina, Juve came with his best material since his groundbreaking Cash Money release 400 Degreez.

Atlantic

Lil Wayne - The Carter 2 T.I. - King

Wayne became a critical and media darling with the superior lyrical dexterity he showcased on his latest project. He claimed the throne years ago, and backed it up in a major way in 2006 with one of his strongest efforts to date.
Grand Hustle/Atlantic

Cash Money/Universal

Young Jeezy - Thug Motivation: Lets Get It

The highly-anticipated major label debut from the Souths hottest underground commodity spawned numerous hit singles and club anthems.

Def Jam

BEST RAP ARTIST (MALE)

Bun B
Left alone to keep the UGK flame burning, the Trillest of the Trill came strong with a gang of top notch collaborations and elevated himself to become one of the finest solo artists in the rap game.

BEST RAP ARTIST (FEMALE)

Crime Mob (Diamond & Princess) Jacki-O
This young duo kept their crews name alive after people got tired of knucking and bucking. The self-proclaimed Madam of Miami will take your attention, your man and your jewelry if the cameras arent watching. But, when on the mic, she takes no shit.

Lil Wayne

Cash Moneys most loyal soldier took shots at former labelmates Juvenile and B.G., but backed it up with a release that captured his confidence, growth, and versatility.

Paul Wall

Khia

In addition to dropping his first national release, The Peoples Champ was everywhere this year. He dropped verses for everyone from T-Pain to Nelly to Bun B and even using the birth of his firstborn son as an opportunity to market his side hustle selling grills.

Raw and uncut, Khia still represents for the ghetto females in the ongoing battle of the sexes (J.O.D.D., Snatch the Cat Back).

Rasheeda Shawnna Trina

T.I.

The R in her name must stand for resilient. This Georgia Peach has proven that shes here to stay. Slowly but surely stepping out of Ludacris shadow, this Chi-Town queen is about to make the world respect female emcees again. Attitude for years, sassiness for months and ass for days, Trina blah blah blah-ed her way to the top and snagged Birdman Jr. on the way.

This Urban Legend told you he was Serious, but he still had to Trap you with his Muzik until you crowned him the King hed always claimed to be.

Young Jeezy

After helping to establish Boyz N Da Hood, the Snowman used his charisma to entrance the entire nation as he vividly described the realities of street life.

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BEST R&B ARTIST (MALE)
Anthony Hamilton Bobby Valentino Chris Brown Ne-Yo
The raw emotions in his voice catapulted him to near iconic status in todays climate of soulless music. This former Mista front man went from Organizing Noize to Disturbing Tha Peace and created a sound hit in the process. This smooth teen catapulted to the top of the charts virtually overnight. After penning hit records for Mario and others, Ne-Yo stepped out into his own limelight. Originally written off as an R Kelly Jr., Trey Songz created his own lane and brought a breath of fresh air to R&B.

BEST RAP GROUP

Boyz N Da Hood
A collective comprised of two underground rap vets and two flashy newcomers, Boyz N Da Hood took the South by storm, drawing comparisons to the legendary gangsta rap group N.W.A.

D4L

Love them, hate them, or hate them a lot, ATL foursome D4L ignored the dissenters and made an undeniable run for the top.

Dem Franchize Boyz Little Brother

Pretty Ricky

Right when you thought they got worn out, Dem Franchize Boyz dusted off the White Tees and reminded us why we like them. They held up a mirror and forced hip-hop to take a good look at itself with their critically acclaimed major debut The Minstrel Show.

A little raunchy for your mothers liking, but Pretty Ricky snuck their way into the hearts of teenage girls everywhere. Their Grind finally paid off.

T-Pain

With his seamless songwriting abilities, this Rappa Ternt Sanga made it seem classy to fall in love with a stripper.

Three 6 Mafia

Its a little easier out here for a pimp now that Memphis legends Three 6 Mafia have received their mainstream respect.

BEST R&B ARTIST (FEMALE)

Christina Milian
Although born in New Jersey, this talented singer spends a lot of time in the Dirty Dirty these days, collaborating with Young Jeezy, Lil Jon, and Miami production duo Cool & Dre.

Ying Yang Twins

Best known for their strip club anthems, this Atlanta duo expanded their horizons into grown-man territory with United State of Atlanta - and still managed a few HANH?!?s in the process.

BEST LYRICIST
Bun B
The South aint got lyrics, huh? Tell that to Bun B. Theres a reason why hes been featured alongside virtually every rapper youve ever heard of.

Ciara

This overnight celebrity dropped an album and had a run that proves she will be here for many moons.

Destinys Child Joi

Houstons angels bid farewell, but did so in grand fashion. George Clinton, Big Gipp, Bun B and Pastor Troy can vouch for her. She is the Queen of the Underground.

Chamillionaire Killer Mike

Even though hes reppin the Screwed and Chopped state of Texas, Chams flows and lyrics are anything but slow. Shaky release dates and a shelved album almost deaded his name, but Killa Kill managed to stay alive with the amazing freestyles and lyrical dexterity of The Killer mixtape and the Got Purp? compilation.

Keyshia Cole

Swiftly becoming the Mary J. Blige of her generation, Ms. Cole got hyphy with the fellas but still represented for the ladies.

Lil Wayne Scarface

LeToya Luckett

Showing that there is indeed life after Beyonce, Luckett crept in with the Houston wave and found her niche.

Lil Wayne finally gained nationwide respect for being the talented emcee that he has been since his pre-teen years. For well over a decade Scarface has proven why he is one of the most revered voices in all of hip-hop. In 2006 he continued to add to his legendary status with his group The Product.

BEST ALBUM - R&B

Anthony Hamilton - Aint Nobody Worryin Lyfe Jennings - Lyfe 268-192
Sony

His second studio album clearly indicated that he was not a flash in the pan. If every convicted felon had a soulful voice and songwriting skills like the ones displayed on Lyfes autobiographical debut, we wouldnt see many repeat offenders. Fuck a license plate give them a guitar!

Arista

T.I.

He talks cash shit and hes money on the mic, but T.I. still spits like he struggling in the trap.

BREAKTHROUGH ARTIST
Mike Jones Paul Wall
He may not have picked up his phone when you called, but Mike Jones saw his career go from off the radar to off the hook. On top of single-handedly birthing (and soon killing) our fascination with Grillz, Paul Wall went from being a local Chick Magnet to The Peoples Champ.

Ne-Yo - In My Own Words T-Pain - Rappa Ternt Sanga

R&Bs new man of the hour scored big with So Sick and his debut album. Tallahassees multi-talented son dropped an album laced with his trademark singing and production style, and produced two massive hits in the process. Not bad for a rapper.
Konvict/Jive

Def Jam

Rick Ross

Trey Songz - I Gotta Make It

Atlantic

Hustlin every day (for years) led Miamis Rick Ross to a major label bidding war and a multi-million dollar Def Jam deal.

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Slim Thug T-Pain
They say everythings bigger in Texas. Houstons 7-footer was ridin a Bentley even before the album dropped. Save for the now infamous chain-snatching incident, T-Pains breakthrough has been a pleasurable experience. Being Sprung and In Luv never hurt nobody. by the Ying Yang Twins Wait.

Dem Franchize Boyz Lean Wit It, Rock Wit It

DFB ruled the airwaves in the year of the snap, with back-to-back radio cuts that were unavoidable.

Webbie

Dem Franchize Boyz f/ Jermaine Dupri, Da Brat, and Bow Wow Oh I Think They Like Me (remix)
Jermaine and his entire So So Def roster came through to remix this White Tees spin-off.

Coming from Lousianas other city, Baton Rouges Webbie brought back the I-dont-give-a-fuck attitude that others have forgotten.

BEST RAP COLLABORATION

Bun B f/ H-Town All Stars (Lil Keke, Slim Thug, Paul Wall, Mike Jones, Aztek, Lil Flip, Z-Ro) Draped Up (remix)
Rodney King and DJ Screw would be so proud to see everybody just get along. Or at least they edited it that way.

Webbie f/ Bun B Gimme Dat

Were not condoning rape - but when a woman says no, sometimes she actually does mean yes, which could explain this records widespread appeal.

CLUB BANGER
Bubba Sparxxx f/ Ying Yang Twins Ms. New Booty
After a disappointing reaction to his sophomore attempt, Bubba came back strong with his third-times-the-Charm project and gave the people what they wanted.

DJ Khaled f/ Lil Wayne, Rick Ross, Fat Joe, and Pitbull Holla At Me Baby

Miamis DJ Khaled called in a bunch of favors for this energetic lead single off his debut album.

Rick Ross Hustlin

Purple Ribbon All-Stars (Big Boi & Killer Mike) Kryptonite

Everybody in the country can relate to this record, no matter what their hustle is.

Yeah, the song was jamming. But you may need to go back and listen closely to Big Bois verse. Hes no slouch.

T.I. What You Know

Three 6 Mafia f/ Young Buck & 8Ball & MJG Stay Fly Trae f/ Big Hawk & Fat Pat Swang

The lead single off King set the stage for both T.I.s big screen debut and his biggest album to date.

This Tennessee union was a long time coming, but well worth the wait. Only God can bring the whole crew back, but until then, Screwed Up Click fans have Traes tribute to hold them down.

Ying Yang Twins f/ Pitbull Shake

First they caught the countrys attention with a whisper - then back to the usual ass-shaking ruckus, teaming up with Pitbull for added effect and multi-cultural appeal.

BEST RAP/R&B COLLABORATION

Beyonce f/ Slim Thug Check Up On It
This H-Town radio friendly combo had clubs jumpin all across the country.

Yung Joc Its Goin Down

This breakthrough record from Bad Boy Souths newest representative came complete with its own dance.

MIXTAPE MONSTER AWARD

Chingo Bling DSR
Texas tamale king stays in the kitchen, whipping up new product. Dallas T-Town Music collective landed a $7 million dollar deal with Universal Records off their impressive underground grind.

Field Mob f/ Ludacris & Jamie Foxx Georgia

These underrated country boys paid tribute to their home state along with Luda and a damn good Ray Charles impersonation by Jamie Foxx.

T-Pain f/ R Kelly, Twista, Pimp C, Paul Wall, MJG, & Too $hort Im In Luv (Wit A Stripper) remix

Better known as T-Pain featuring everyone, the only hit bigger than the original version of this song was the remix. Apparently, a lot of men can relate. Atlantas wildest twins got grown and sexy and hooked up with Avant to serenade the ladies.

Magno Pitbull Plies

Mike Jones (who?) former partner Magno now represents DJ Clues Desert Storm South and stays on his mixtape grind. No longer just Mr. 305, this internationally recognized superstar still stays true to his humble beginnings and releases mixtapes frequently. Ft. Myers, FL newcomer Plies 100% Real Nigga mixtapes with Cool Runnings DJ Bigga Rankin helped him amass plenty of fans, and haters, in 2006.

Ying Yang Twins f/ Avant Bedroom Boom

Young Jeezy f/ Akon Soul Survivor

Akons unique vocals were a perfect match for Jeezys street tales on this massive hit from Jeezys debut album.

NO ESCAPE AWARD
D4L Laffy Taffy

The record that was such a huge hit you literally could not escape it if you wanted to - from the radio to the clubs to the streets, it was everywhere. Love it or hate it, music lovers of all ages were introduced to snap music in a big way through D4Ls breakthrough record.

Young Jeezy

This category wouldnt be complete without mentioning Jeezys accomplishments with mixtapeS like Trap or Die and Cant Ban the Snowman.

SLEPT ON ARTIST
B.G.
Although hes been in the game for a decade plus, B.G.s independent releases and lyrical skills have been largely underappreciated by the mainstream rap audience.

David Banner Play

Banner stepped outside of his element and showed his versatility by creating a smash hit with Mr. Collipark that blew up, riding the wave created

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Bohagon
Lil Jons secret weapon helped everybody Get Crunk, but hes just a soulful country boy at heart. ist added inventor to his list of job titles this year with the ingenious smokers device Da Splitta.

Jody Breeze

Tony Neal

Jazze Pha protege and Boyz N Da Hood member Jody Breeze is still waiting to drop his solo album, and fans are waiting also.

The founder of The CORE DJs, Tony goes the extra mile to make sure his crew eats.

Little Brother

Allegedly dubbed too intelligent for their audience by BET, the lack of recognition for this North Carolina trio proves once again that catchy hooks unfortunately often win over substance.

TJs DJs TASTEMAKER AWARD:

(MUSIC/SOUND)
DJ Screw K-Rab

Webbie

Grimy, gutta, and unrefined, this truly talented Baton Rouge rhymer stayed somewhat under the radar despite two big singles.

Although hes gone (R.I.P.), his legacy and music lives on through Houstons recent rap explosion. Snap, crackle, pop. The inventor of Atlantas newest trend, snap music, K-Rabs impact is clear.

Yo Gotti

Respected in the streets of Memphis and beyond, Yo Gotti is still awaiting national recognition.

LIVING LEGEND AWARD

8Ball & MJG

Lil Jon

The trailblazing artist/individual whos influence can be clearly seen in the music released during this time period. Before all the radio play and mainstream attention, it was 8Ball and MJG who helped put Southern music on the map with Comin Out Hard. Since then, theyve maintained their core fanbase.

Even though somewhat silenced this year by label issues, Jon ventured beyond the South and kept his sound alive by linking up with rock groups like Korn and California legends like E-40.

Mr. Collipark

Although its longevity remains to be seen, Mr. Colliparks vision for a new genre of intimate club music became a reality with the success of the Ying Yang Twins Wait and David Banners Play.

Scarface

T-Pain

After parting ways with the Geto Boys, this Houston emcee developed a ghetto-nurtured rap trademark, leading a wave of Southern emcees who emulated his style.

Floridas dreadlocked rapper, singer, and producer discovered a new vocal effect in the studio and went crazy with it. Love it or hate it, youve got to admit that it worked.

Three 6 Mafia

By now, we all know that they made history by winning an Academy Award. But even before the Oscar, these Memphis legends impact was clear.

TJs DJs TASTEMAKER AWARD:

(STYLE/TRENDSETTER)
Dem Franchize Boyz Fabo of D4L Lil Wayne

Too $hort

Sharing his sexual tales and stories of violence, Too $hort pioneered a movement while earning two gold and four platinum plaques. More importantly, he blazed a trail for the Souths independent explosion.

White tees have become hip-hops official uniform, thanks in part to DFB. Famous for his white sunglasses, Fabos unique style kicked off a new trend. Bling, bling. Every time I come around your city, bling bling.

UGK

Port Arthur, TX, rap partners Bun B and Pimp C have each earned the title of Underground King. Bun B also gets the loyalty award for his relentless (and apparently, successful) Free Pimp C campaign.

Uncle Luke

From challenging censors to paving the way as a businessman, Miamis bass king has earned the title of pioneer.

Paul Wall & TV Johnny

TJs DJs HUSTLER AWARD

DJ Chuck T
Carolina representative Mr. Publicity lives up to his name, churning out mixtapes consistently and maintaining numerous other hustles.

Everyone and their brother, sister, mama, and grandmomma has a grill now, thanks to Paul Walls side hustle and his comedic - but presumably rich - business partner, Johnny Dang of TV Jewelry.

T.I.

Not only is T.I. a great rapper, but hes also become a sex symbol.

Young Jeezy

David Banner DJ Drama

Although CNN tried, they couldnt ban the Snowman. Jeezys trademark t-shirts became a best-seller at hip-hop clothing stores worldwide.

Whether rapping, producing, acting, or aiding hurricane victims in his home state of Mississippi, Banner redefines 24/7. Drama and his Affiliates crew are literally everywhere, and he played a key role in the success of artists like T.I., Young Jeezy, and Paul Wall.

BEST VIDEO
Chamillionaire f/ Krayzie Bone Ridin Dirty Da BackWudz I Dont Like The Look of It
Kudos are already in order for having Debo in the video, but the parallel between pro wrestling and police brutality was ingenious. The Willy Wonka movie is already weird enough, so calling this video weird is mundane. But you have to appreciate a vid where the models dont get more face time than the artist.

Mike Jones

You dont grind, you dont shine. You dont work, you dont eat. Call 281330-8004 for more information.

Tampa Tony

Known for his Florida anthem Keep Jukin, Tampas most creative art-

David Banner Play

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Speaking of models, this one was a whos who. Sweaty, steamy and sticky, Banner gave his fans a little eye and ear candy. airwaves and streets for quite some time. When workaholic Greg Street isnt planning a celebrity car show, sneaker show, or party, he can usually be heard blazing the Atlanta airwaves.

Juvenile Get Ya Hustle On Rick Ross Hustlin

Greg Street (Atlanta, GA)

This video had more accurate Katrina reporting than Fox News on their best day. Juve reminded us of the forgotten. Crossing the bridge into the real Miami, Rick Ross gave the world a glimpse of the everyday hustle in his Carol City hood.

DJ Nasty (Orlando, FL)

Now branching off into the production world, Nastys skills on the turntables remain top-of-the-line.

Three 6 Mafia f/ Young Buck and 8Ball & MJG Stay Fly Honorable mention: Although Korn is not a Southern rap group,

Michael Watts (Houston, TX)

A night in the life of a rap star: endless partying captured by great camera work made us feel like we were right there with them. their video for Twisted Transistor, which featured Lil Jon, David Banner, Xzibit, and Snoop Dogg playing the roles of the band, certainly deserves mention.

Swishahouses Michael Watts carries on the legacy of DJ Screw through the fine art of chopping and Screwing.

BEST PRODUCER
Cool & Dre
Miamis Terror Squad affiliates Cool & Dre have put their stamp on the industry, producing massive hits for Ja Rule and Game and more recent records like Christina Milians Say I and Juveniles Rodeo.

HONORARY SOUTHERNER AWARD

The artist from outside our region who showed the most love the South and/or was most accepted in the South.

Jermaine Dupri

CamRon

Dont forget, this guy rapped on the Neva Scared remix and did a Bout It remake a while back. So his collabos with Webbie and Lil Wayne should come as no surprise - hes no bandwagon jumper.

After landing both an executive position and a label deal at Virgin Records, he bulked up his roster by producing hits for Dem Franchize Boyz and Bow Wow post-puberty.

Lil Jon

E-40

He unified crunk with hyphy and still maintained his O.G. status.

After a few years as the reigning King of Crunk, Jon kept up his winning streak with the YoungBloodz Presidential and E-40s Snap Yo Fingers.

Juelz Santana Too $hort Twista

Mannie Fresh

His Jeezy mixtape hasnt dropped, but Juelz earned his Dirty South pass. Having lived in Atlanta since the 90s, hes damn near a Southerner now. But at the end of the day hes still coming straight from Oakland. Chi-towns rapid-fire spitters trademark style has universal appeal, and Twista is no stranger to Dirty South collabos.

Although somewhat low-profile since departing Cash Money, Mannies production skills are still on point, as evidenced by records like Young Jeezys And What, Bun Bs Im Fresh, and B.G.s Move Around.

Mr. Collipark

Otherwise known as DJ Smurf, the man behind the Ying Yang Twins took bass music to a whole new level and created intimate club music.

The Unusual Suspects (Big D & Jim Jonsin)

BEST CLUB DJ
Bigga Rankin (Jacksonville, FL) DJ Irie (Miami, FL)
Cool Runnings O.G. Bigga Rankin faithfully preaches his Ghetto Gospel to clubgoers all throughout the South, no matter how drunk they are. Widely regarded as one of the top mixers in the country, the official DJ of the Miami Heat still finds time to rock your favorite South Beach nightspots.

Although Big D and Jim Jonsin have since moved on to pursue solo projects, they achieved major back-to-back successes as a duo, crafting Pretty Rickys album and hits for Trick Daddy, Trina, and Twista, among others.

BEST MIXTAPE DJ
Bigga Rankin (Jacksonville, FL)
Biggas trademark WRNR: Real Nigga Radio mixtape series is ghetto platinum in the streets, introducing artists like Plies and Young Cash and reintroducing Jacki-O to hoods across the South.

DJ Chuck T (Charleston, SC)

DJ Khaled (Miami, FL)

Waited in line too long and your favorite record was over by the time you got inside? Dont worry, the Southern version of Funkmaster Flex is sure to bring it back and drop a bomb on it - three or four times.

The cockiest DJ in the Carolinas talks a lot of shit, but consistently backs it up with a flurry of releases showcasing the hottest new music and breaking indie acts.

DJ Drama (Atlanta, GA)

Lil Larry (Memphis, TN) DJ Mars (Atlanta, GA)

Larry keeps the clubs poppin in Tennessee. The CEO of the SuperFriends DJ crew, Mars keeps the party jumpin.

Drama took his mixtape series Gangsta Grillz to a whole new level. DJ Chuck T asserts that Dramas career path is the blueprint for all other DJs - a strong statement coming from a fellow nominee.

DJ Ideal (Miami, FL)

BEST RADIO DJ
DJ Khaled (Miami, FL)
If you had a bad day at work, Khaleds afternoon mix is sure to liven up the rest of your day.

Straight from Da Bottom, Ideal played a role in Pitbulls success and dropped solid projects with everyone from Ludacris to Smitty.

Rapid Ric (Austin, TX) DJ Smallz (Tampa, FL)

The Mixtape Mechanics Whut It Dew? series consistently captures the essence of Texas music, highlighting the best of the best. Smallz peers have mixed feelings: some hate him, some love him, some envy him, but most do respect his hustle. Smallz created a career with exclusives and industry connects, not hype and image.

Freddy Hydro (Memphis, TN)

Yo Gotti drama aside, Freddy Hydro has been holding down the Memphis

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PATIENTLY WAITING: FLORIDA
Acafool (Tampa, FL)
Tampas class clown put his Hata Blockas on and sparked both a radio frenzy and label bidding war.

BloodRaw (Panama City, FL)

Rejuvenated after winning a Federal court case, the Bangin Bay representative is back on the road with Young Jeezy and his CTE camp and taking full advantage of all opportunities.

Plies (Ft. Myers, FL)

Stirring up controversy with his bold 100% real nigga, dawg campaign, Slip-N-Slides newest recruit rocked packed clubs throughout Florida without an album or a video.

Treal (Orlando, FL)

Central Floridas hypest foursome, known for their crunk performances, stayed on their grind and landed in regular rotation on local radio.

Triple J (West Palm Beach, FL)

Arguably one of Floridas top lyricists, Triple J has survived record label politics and gunfire and still managed to create a name for himself with witty rhymes and creative mixtape records.

Young Cash (Jacksonville, FL)

Jacksonvilles head honcho stayed on the scene this year with his Duval County Rockstars, dropped records with Webbie, Paul Wall, and Mike Jones, and landed a deal with SRC/Universal.

lorida has had its spurts in hip-hop. Luke and the 2 Live Crew movement was the first, but fizzled out when the group broke up. 69 Boyz went platinum with their classic hit Tootsee Roll. Trick Daddy and Trina were soon to follow with their barrage of hits coming out of the MIA. Now Florida has Rick Ross at the forefront to show the world exactly how M-I-Yayo be hustlin. However, for the first time in the states hip-hop history, the future looks bright with talent from all areas looking to break out and show the world that Florida is here to stay. Nicknamed the Gunshine State for the shape of the state, first up is Bloodraw hailing from Panama City. Soon after signing to Young Jeezys CTE label, Bloodraw was arrested, and eventually acquitted on drug charges. Working on a Gangsta Grillz mixtape as well as group U.S.D.A.s album, Bloodraw is the leader to break North Florida. Five hours across the state is Duval Countys own Young Cash. Signed to SRC/Universal, he is patiently waiting to release his debut album. Recording a local hit track with Paul Wall, Disco Ball, Young Cash has much more to come from Jacksonville. Treal have been local stars for years ever since they dropped their Orlando classic Orange County. With their recent independent release Crunk Tested and Approved, Treal are ready to show the world what it is like to be crunk in a city that outsiders consider Mickey Mouse territory. Everyone across I-4 has their Hatah Blockas on. One of the few Tampa artists to break through and receive local radio support after years of hard work, Acafool found his niche and has the Hatah Blockas shades craze spreading throughout Florida. Its only a matter of time before he blows. One of the more underappreciated artists in Florida, Triple J reps West Palm Beach to the fullest. He wasnt even one to appreciate his talents until after he was shot. He made a transition, but kept the streets locked. With his MLK BLVD album, he is sure to have labels hunting for him. Finally, the hottest nigga in Florida is the streets own Plies. Hailing from Ft. Myers, Plies carries an I dont give a fuck attitude with Slip-N-Slide/Atlantic backing him. This South Florida new breed of MC is destined to blow nationwide. With just this small group of Florida talent, who is to deny them as the next to shine? - Leon Bailey

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PATIENTLY WAITING GEORGIA
Citty (Atlanta, GA)
Even with a Slip-N-Slide/Def Jam deal, you can still find the Cookieman in the streets and the hole-in-the-wall clubs that made him hot.

Da BackWudz (Atlanta, GA) Lil Weavah (Atlanta, GA) Slick Pulla (Atlanta, GA) Yola (Atlanta, GA)

They waited for quite a while, and their patience finally paid off this year when they linked up with Dallas Austin. Weavahs widely respected independent hustle extends from the internet to Soundscan. Young Jeezys smooth-talking CTE sidekicks rap skills have improved rapidly - Pulla represents the trap with lyrics and clever wordplay. With Aint Gon Let Up currently the most requested song on Atlanta radio stations, the future is bright for Yola.

Young Dro (Atlanta, GA)

After stints with various Atlanta collectives, Dro finally found a home with Grand Hustle and landed a hit with Shoulder Lean.

uilt on the blueprints of more recent breakthrough artists like Ludacris, T.I. and Young Jeezy, 2006 saw a new crop of Georgia artists make their presence felt. And with crunk fading into its last stages in popularity and snap music reaching its apex and eventual fall, it was prime time for lyricists to come back to the forefront.

Slip-N-Slide/Def Jam signee Citty proved that he was indeed a soldier ready to go for his in the war that is the rap game. The former Marine and Field Mob protg toured every nook and cranny that had a microphone, creating his buzz from the ground up. His underground single Da Cookieman showed that there are more hustles than selling dope and pimping women. Then songs like Thats Gangsta proved that you can get a crowd amped without brandishing weapons in every line. Another group that gave us plenty of alternatives were the Da Backwudz, reminding people of Outkast, but yet showing that Southern Hip Hops future is in good hands. Hell, the simple existence of their debut Wood Work is historic in the fact that it made Dallas Austin resurrect Rowdy Records just for them. You cant mention the new talent coming from the Peach state without talking about Lil Weavah either. Correction, you cant mention mixtape grind without talking about Lil Weavah. True to the underground, this Southwest Atlanta bred artist has his name on the minds of everyone in the country with no radio support, although an appearance on ESPNs Cold Pizza and mention on MTV.com definitely helped. Appearing on 200 mixtapes since last year and getting massive support from overseas is evidence that Weavah wont be patiently waiting for too much longer. Even though Slick Pulla hasnt been on a bunch of mixtapes, his appearances on Young Jeezys have given him a muchdeserved spotlight. Him bringing wordplay and wit to the much talked about trap life shows that there is more than one way to skin a cat. Now, with his debut album The Trapublican slated to release later this year, Slick is bound to pull a lot of attention his way. Keeping in tune with that, Yola Da Great has been able to motivate thugs in his own way as well. His infectious single Aint Gon Let Up has been killing Atlanta radio for months and his grind was rewarded with a deal through Grand Hustle/Atlantic Records. As your reading this article, odds are youve heard Young Dros Shoulder Lean at least twice today. Already a name in the streets through regional hits like Yes Sir back in 2002, he eventually signed with Grand Hustle this year and plans to burn the scene with his debut Best Thang Smokin. If these six artists are an indication of what Georgia has to offer for the future, your best bet is to hop on the bandwagon right now. - Cedric Boothe

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PATIENTLY WAITING: TENNESSEE
All Star (Nashville, TN)
The self-proclaimed Cashville Prince scored a huge hit with Grey Goose and landed a solo deal with Cash Money.

Cadence (Nashville, TN)

A witty emcee with striking versatility, Cadence toured the world opening for Kenny Chesney but still makes records that can get the most thugged out club poppin.

D. Cooley (Chattanooga, TN)

Thanks to his consistent grind, D. Cooley has seen his record Trap Clothes grow into a bonafide regional smash.

Kinfolk Nakia Shine (Memphis, TN) Lutinent G (Memphis, TN)

This indie hustler played an integral role in other Memphis artists careers, but now hes telling you to Respect My Fresh. Representing for Memphis underground rap breeding ground, Lutinent G had every club in Tennessee screaming Yeah, Yeah, Yeah to his monster club banger.

Yo Gotti (Memphis, TN)

Never one to wander far from the streets, the hottest up-and-comer in Memphis hustled his way through the mixtape and indie scene and is poised to achieve national success.

ast year, hip-hop witnessed a first when Three 6 Mafia took to a Hollywood stage and accepted an Academy Award. Tennessee, which has had its fair share of musical adversity, was finally able to bask in a shining moment again. Add to that the strong reemergence of the states crowned princes via the bonafide hits Stay Fly and Poppin My Collar, the release of Project Pat and Playa Fly from jail, and the influx of young visitors to Memphis for major boxing matches, and its obvious that Tennessee is on the rise once again. While Tennekey has been on the music scene for years, producing the likes of Al Green and 8Ball & MJG, in recent years its remained relatively quiet while surrounding areas have stepped into the spotlight. Even still, talent continued to bubble quietly, and 2006 was the year for it to be manifested publicly. Take Cadence, for example. Hailing from Cashville, this rapper proves that witty lyricism and concentrated storytelling can be just as entertaining as snapping your fingers and two stepping with his debut, Songs of Vice Virtue. Having previously toured with alternative rock group Uncle Kracker and country phenom Kenny Chesney, folks couldnt help but compare him to Kanye West, and with due cause. His easy charm and penchant for diversity made him an underground favorite. Its only a matter of time before everyone else catches up. Memphis rapper Yo Gottis persistence and familiarity made his TVT debut Back 2 Da Basics one of the most anticipated of the summer season, propelled by the single Gangsta Party featuring Bun B and 8ball. He continued his rise to success with his artist All-Star, who also hails from Nashville. After garnering a buzz with his impressive showing on Young Jeezys Grey Goose the rapper is poised to make a significant mark in the rap game. Even the often ignored city of Chattanooga produced the regional hit with D. Cooleys Trap Clothes, featuring Atlanta rapper, Maceo. Reaping the benefits of his consistent grind, D. Cooley has undoubtedly shown that a little hustle can go a long way. And of course, the Bluff City remained on the cusp of innovation with Kinfolk Nakia Shine and Lutinent G. Kinfolks single Respect My Fresh quickly became an underground favorite, defined by the rappers natural swagger. Newcomer Lutinent G made significant waves with his catchy, humorous single, Mangla, from his debut Out Da Gate on Select-O-Hits Its clear that Tennessee is a haven for inspired artists. Seems like Patiently Waiting may not be an accurate description for the states talent much longer. - Jacinta Howard

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nominees
PATIENTLY WAITING: LOUISIANA
Chyna Whyte (New Orleans, LA)
BMEs female rapper made noise with Lil Jon when he first dropped, but fell off the radar momentarily. Now shes back and ready to make a solo statement.

E-Vicious (Lake Charles, LA) Lil Boosie (Baton Rouge, LA)

This former member of the X-Mobb is now signed to UGK Records. Webbies labelmate is a diamond in the rough, with one of the most unique voices in rap and highly underappreciated lyrical abilities.

Max Minelli (Baton Rouge, LA)

One of Louisianas most persistent artists, over the years Max has collaborated with everyone from C-Loc to Paul Wall.

Partners-N-Crime (New Orleans, LA) Sqad Up (New Orleans, LA)

This duo inked a deal with Juves UTP Records and linked up with Rap-A-Lot. Lil Waynes former crew, still intact after Hurricane Katrina, is now dropping a solo album.

o Limit and Cash Money Records came and went with a gangload of gold and platinum plaques. Other then those two labels, Louisiana has been quiet on the national scene. Last year Webbie made some noise with his hit single Gimme That, but thats about it. The following artists have been patiently waiting their turn and are on the verge of breaking loose. E-Vicious is from Lake Charles, LA, which is close to the Texas line. He linked with Pimp C and is signed to his label UGK Records. The former X-Mobb member is featured on Pimp Cs Pimpalation. He is definitely ready to show you that Louisiana is not just New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Southside Baton Rouge, Louisiana native Lil Boosie has been through his trials and tribulations. A Baton Rouge favorite, hes released several solo albums and has undeniable talent, but it all depends on the label to show the world why many consider Lil Boosie Bad Ass the best out the boot. He will be a problem once he releases Bad Ass. Another Baton Rouge native, Max Minelli, has been putting it down for years. An original member of the Concentration Camp, he is highly slept on as a lyricist. Releasing many successful selling albums, he is currently in a bidding war with major labels. While patiently waiting on that chance to blow, he is scheduled to release Pain Medicine on Koch in October. Godfathers of the popular genre called bounce music, Partners-N-Crime embody New Orleans. They were holding their city down before anyone knew who the Hot Boyz or TRU was. Having just releasing their album Club Bangaz on UTP/Rap-A-Lot, PNC hopes to show the world that New Orleans is still bouncin. Exploding on the scene with her aggressive verse on Lil Jons Bia Bia, Chyna Wyte has been quiet for a few years. But this New Orleans bred femcee recently stepped back on to the scene, dropped a mixtape with DJ Smallz, and is waiting to raise the bar that previous New Orleans female artists left high. Many thought that they were just Lil Waynes sidekicks. But since branching off into their own, Sqad Up has made plenty of noise independently. Releasing their debut album Now or Never, numerous mixtapes, and their new album We Here Now, Sqad Up is poised to show the world that New Orleans rap is to stay. No disrespect to No Limit or Cash Money and what they have done, but these artists are the new generation, and all come to the forefront with different styles. - Leon Bailey

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nominees
PATIENTLY WAITING: MISSISSIPPI
Big K.R.I.T. (Meridian, MS)
At the young age of 19, K.R.I.T. is a more complete artist than some who have been making records for a decade. He is not only an extremely talented producer, but also a rapper with solid subject matter.

Boo da Boss Playa (Canton, MS) Jewman (Jackson, MS)

Having spent years on the shelf due to record label politics at both Interscope and J Records, Boo is still waiting for his turn to shine. This newcomers Swag created a buzz in the streets of Jacktown.

Kamikaze (Jackson, MS)

David Banners former rap partner will split your head to the white meat with his hard-hitting lyrics. In addition to his regional successes as an artist, he founded the Mississippi Artists & Producers Coalition.

Scar (Columbus, MS)

Big Bois secret weapon has a story to tell and talent to match.

Smoke D (Jackson, MS)

This soulful UGK affiliate appeared on the groups classic Ridin Dirty album, live from the penitentiary. Now free like Pimp C, hes focused on GFM (God, Family, & Music).

n the 90s, during the rap worlds infatuation with the East Coast vs. West Coast, one would have thought it absurd to suggest that a rap revolution was brewing in Mississippi. The average Americans impression of the Sipp is perhaps one of racial strife and backwards thinking.

But over the past few years, as rap has gradually turned Southward and remains below the Mason-Dixon line, country vocals became more acceptable and Mississippi representatives like David Banner have broken through the stereotypes to take the Mississippi mentality worldwide. In 2006, a new crop of country rap tunes is brewing. Speaking of David Banner, he recently sought out Meridian-based producer/rapper Big K.R.I.T. for some beats. And hes not the only one noticing the promising young talent. K.R.I.T. is quickly making a name for himself amongst industry heads as an all-around hustler whos taking the right steps to succeed. Formerly signed to Interscope and now waiting for J Records to drop his major label debut, Boo da Boss Playa, a.k.a. Boo Rossini, is perhaps best known for his street single Miss Me With That Rap Shit. The single, which featured Jeezy just as he blew up, was perhaps a blessing and a curse because Jeezys street buzz almost overpowered the fact that it was Boos song. Still, Boo has stayed true to his grind and can usually be found anywhere between Miami and Houston. Already a local celebrity, Jackson-based newcomer Jewmans Swag has the streets talking. Combine that with mixtape appearances and youve got a strong start to a potentially fruitful career. Moving right along from a newcomer to another veteran, Kamikaze has enjoyed regional success with singles like U Aint Hard, and is still on the verge of a big breakthrough. Perhaps best known to the average rap fan as the other half of David Banners Crooked Lettaz, Kamikaze lacks the charisma and ridiculous stage antics of his former rap partner but can lyrically compete with your favorite emcee. Still a hometown favorite, Kamikazes The Franchise drops later this year. Hailing from Columbus, Mississippi, you can catch Scar - guess how he got that name - in the new Outkast video for Morris Brown, dropping that Dungeon Family flavor alongside Big Bois sharp vocals. One of the most promising members of Big Bois Purple Ribbon camp, Scars background story is just as intriguing as his musical abilities. Smoke D, once the unofficial third member of UGK, spent seven years in prison which prevented him from nationwide success with the group. After his release he began recording for a solo project, with his trademark soulful vibe that explores all aspects of the streets and life in general. - Mayson Drake

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nominees
PATIENTLY WAITING TEXAS
Big Tuck (Dallas, TX) ESG (Houston, TX)
The lead-off solo artists from Dallas collective DSR, Tuck is prepared to carry the city on his back. Although hes been in the game for years, national acclaim has thus far eluded ESG, known for his wicked freestyles.

G.R.i.T. Boys (Houston, TX) Kiotti (Houston, TX)

This group, affiliated with Paul Wall, brings a fresh new flavor, speaking on Ghetto Reality in Texas. Young and charismatic, this former battle rapper has a bright future in front of him.

Money Waters (Dallas, TX)

As the Houston hype slowly dies down, it looks as if Dallas is next to blow, with Money Waters ranking high on the list of the citys talented artists.

Trae (Houston, TX)

Trae is straddling the thin line between patiently waiting and full-out blown up. After gaining the attention of several major labels with his single Swang, he signed with Rap-A-Lot.

p until maybe last year, the Patiently Waiting column was practically tailor-made for Texas. The rap scene in that great state had been bubbling and building for years, until finally it peaked and a bunch of artists from Houston reached the top. Well, Houston is a big city, but Texas is a huge state and hot on the heels of Paul Wall, Chamillionaire and Slim Thug are a hot new crop of artists who are popping off from border to border. Heres a look at whats next for Texas. A lot of people have Dallas metro star Big Tuck pegged as the next to blow out of Texas. His countrified voice has a very direct and imminent delivery that makes what he has to say hard to ignore. A member of the group Dirty South Rydaz, Tucks reputation is solid in the streets, the clubs and the booth. DSR is certainly the biggest group in Texas from outside of Houston. Houston-based ESG has been patiently waiting to get that national exposure for some years now. His 1995 hit Swang and Bang is a Texas anthem to this day and ever since then he has consistently dropped some of the hottest independent releases in the region. Hes been eating well off of the rap game for over 10 years, but is now pursuing that major label status. Hes the backbone of the Houston rap community and one of the folks who pioneered the sounds you are currently hearing from the Lone Star State. Also hailing from Texas, the G.R.i.T. Boys are one of the hottest young groups in the streets of Houston and their affiliation with Paul Wall has been taking them all over the United States. Their name stands for Ghetto Reality in Texas, so you wont hear a lot of the same ol same ol from these guys. Their stories are ones of struggle and pain, coupled with the lighter side of life in the hood. They are some lyrical giants who come from the same area as most of the Screwed Up Click and hold those values tight, but have an original sound and a whole different energy than their predecessors. Recently signed to Asylum Records, Kiotti is best known as a battle rap champion around Houston. But you cant sleep on the regional hits he has been a part of, most recently Minute Plan also known as The Phone Song. Hes a serious hustler who has been at it since his early teens and seems set to finally blow nationwide. Dallas representative Money Waters comes with a whole different perspective than the other artists on this list. He is more like the old sage - though he is young who you can turn to for advice or a funny story. This vibe runs throughout his CDs and his live show where often he comes off as a brilliant blues man rather than your average rapper. Recently signed to Rap-A-Lot Records, Trae has been hot in the streets of Texas since his first release in 1999, the debut album from his group, Guerilla Maab. He is a voice for the voiceless in Houston and beyond, representing the hard streets with his reality based raps. Hes seen a lot of struggle and strife in his life and has no problem telling you all about it. He is possibly the most reality based rapper the game has seen since the early days of Scarface. - Matt Sonzala

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nominees
PATIENTLY WAITING: ALABAMA
334 M.O.B.B. (Montgomery, AL) Attitude (Birmingham, AL)
Representing the Montgomery area code to the fullest, 334 M.O.B.B. parlayed their intense mixtape grind into national opportunities. Formerly signed to Timbaland, this underrated lyricist has penned rhymes for Diddy and Bubba Sparxxx. Now living in Atlanta, hes poised and ready.

Birmingham J (Birmingham, AL) Rich Boy (Mobile, AL)

Birminghams official hood representative has dropped several indie albums over the years, catching the majors attention. Multi-talented Mobile representative Rich Boy landed a deal at Interscope through Jim Crow rapper/producer Polow and has since been working on his debut album.

The Last Mr. Bigg (Mobile, AL)

Mobiles O.G. has survived court cases, prison time, and a near-death experience. Now sporting a glass eye, hes collaborating with Three 6 Mafia to expand his musical reach beyond the region.

Tyte Wurk (Enterprise, AL)

Coming from a small town in South Alabama, Tyte Wurk had to double up their grind to get noticed.

ven beyond their music being overlooked, Alabama has had to fight stereotypes and scrap for respect for years. A lot of times, the only time you hear them mentioned is when someone hurls an insult like, Youre Bama. How flattering can that be? Well, this year, things took a turn in the right direction for the state that rests in the heart of the South. Headlines were made when word broke that Montgomerys 334 M.O.B.B. got signed to Def Jam. But instead of letting that get to their heads, they continued to work as hard as they did before they got the deal and it worked out in their favor. Releasing mixtapes on top of mixtapes, this duo received plenty of exposure with hardly any help from their pioneering label. If you need more proof, just peep them on Myspace. Patiently Waiting is definitely appropriate when speaking on Birminghams Attitude. Poised to blow by way of a deal with Timbalands now defunct Beat Club, Tude got a chance to travel the world and work with the likes of Missy and Diddy. Even though no record came from out of that deal, it was not a wasted experience. Birmingham J reps so hard that he puts his city on the map without even saying a word. But, when he does finally speak, people listen. And that includes everyone from local retail and radio to big time A&Rs. And with his city prepping to be the next area to blow in the South, J is sure to lead the charge. About three hours away, you can hear what Mobile has cooking too. Rapper/producer Rich Boy is slowly proving that casinos arent the citys only attraction. His single Get To Poppin generated just enough buzz to make is Gangsta Grillz mixtape one of the most anticipated releases of the year. Still signed to Interscope, Rich is bound to get richer. Right around the corner, we also saw the resurgence of The Last Mr. Bigg. Already a legendary figure in his region, he got a lot of face time due to his cameo on Three 6 Mafias Poppin My Collar. Now, with people going back to peep his older music after his unfortunate shooting earlier this year, his new music is guaranteed to open some more doors. A drive east to Enterprise, Alabama will bring you to Tyte Wurk. Their smash Mary Jane: Remix had smokers singing their praises while their other song What It Is served as the opening song for ESPNs Sunday Night Football this past season. With this crop of artist leading the charge Alabama just may turn Bama into a compliment. - Kale Swanson

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nominees
PATIENTLY WAITING: CAROLINAS
Big Cas (Fayetteville, NC) Fat Boy (Charleston, SC)
Cas has effectively captured the internet, the streets, and mainstream media with his music, buildling up his fanbase equally in each area. The diplomat of the Carolinas, Fat Boy has the respect of his peers and good relationships with record stores, other artists, radio personalities, producers, and hood dudes.

J-Khrist (Fayetteville, NC)

J-Khrist got his swagger back and is ready to carry the flag for the Carolinas.

Mac-A-Don (Columbia, SC) Marly Mar (Charleston, SC) Piazo (Columbia, SC)

Over the past year, Mac-A-Don has grown lyrically and developed his own style, creating a buzz from the ground up. Charlestons most consistent artist has dropped over ten albums over the past three years and maintained a steady radio presence. Piazos steady mixtape grind has helped him lock down the streets of South Carolina and create a fanbase.

he Carolinas arent known for being a hotbed of talent. For years, weve sat back and watched Southern hip-hop evolve, moreso as fans and not active participants. Weve seen artists from Kentucky, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, and other smaller areas receive major deals and nationwide exposure, while we sat on the sidelines patiently waiting for our turn to shine. For years we screamed that the game is coming to us. But it seemed like success and recognition in the hip-hop industry went to every Southern state surrounding us and then took a wild turn and headed to Texas and skipped right over us here in the Carolinas. We thought wed get the look we needed when Petey Pablo went platinum and Little Brother finally signed with Atlantic, but neither one of those artists created enough buzz to catch the attention of A&Rs. Through all our misfortune, weve come to realize that we cant depend on the industry to come to us. We have to create our own industry. Just like the blues and jazz performers of the 40s and 50s created the Chitlin Circuit to gain exposure, Carolina artists have ben forced to do the same. Marly Mar, from Charleston, SC, was the first artist in the city to have a song in regular rotation on the radio. His hit single Act A Donkey is over four years old and still continues to get heavy spins on the radio and in the clubs. Hes also one of the most consistent artists in the state, having released 3 albums per year for the last 3 years. Big Cas, from Fayetteville, NC (also know as Fayettenam) has taken the mixtape game by storm. Hes appeared on over 60 mixtapes in the last 2 years and has shared songs with Jae Millz, Freeway, Grafh, Remy Ma, Geolani, Corey Gunz, and other prominent East coast hip hop artists. Also causing a ruckus on the streets is Meccadon, from Columbia, SC, and J-Khrist from Fayetteville, NC. These two artists are relatively new to the Carolina hip-hop scene but both have taken the game by storm. Theyre constantly doing shows all throughout the state and have singles blazing the radio airwaves and tearing up the clubs. Meccadons last single No was a huge hit and his new song We Balln is following in the same pattern. J-Khrists single Swagger Back is a club banger that can go toe to toe with any other song on the Billboard charts. Its a guaranteed hit once it touches mainstream radio. As far as longevity and street credibility are concerned, Fat Boy and Piazo both have that aspect of the game sewed up. Fatboy, representing Charleston, SC, not only had one of the best selling albums of 2005 but has also been a key figure in easing the tension between hip-hop artists from Downtown Charleston and North Charleston. His new album, Laughing Hyenas, drops this fall and features artists from both areas on the same tracks and is set to be one of 2006s most highly anticipated album. Columbia, SCs Piazo is one of the Cackalacks most sought after artists and has a slew of albums and mixtapes on the streets that date back to 1995. Hes been pounding the streets longer than any other artist from the Carolinas and has maintained a consistent a buzz both on the streets and on the radio throughout his career. His music has caught the attention of many label A&Rs, most recently G-Unit Records Sha Money XL, and he has had had offers on the table from many major record labels. now! - DJ Chuck T

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tjs djs tastemakers xclusives disc 1

1. Rich Boy / Throw Some Dees Interscope Contact: Rosalie 310.865.7929 On this track you can tell that Rich Boy is steady smirking cause his flow is dangerous. Whats more, like Indego Montoya, he knows something that you dont - hes not even right handed. His natural talent is production rather than rapping. 2. Rick Ross / Push It - Slip-N-Slide/Def Jam Contact: Eclass@nextel.blackberry.net Push It features an interpolation from one of the greatest montage records made famous by Scarface the movie and South Park. Rick Ross Miami gangsta tales are so boss that they would make Crockett & Tubbs look silly. 3. David Banner ft. Yola / Get Money b.i.G.f.a.c.e./SRC Contact: Willie Nash 601.238.5658 David Banner cleverly samples Yolas Aint Gonna Let Up and proves that hes ahead of his time as the rest of the world has yet to discover what Yola has to offer. Scroll down to track 9 and youll see why Banner decided to run with this lil monster. 4. Trick Daddy / I Pop Slip-N-Slide/Atlantic Contact: Sam Crespo sam.crespo@atlanticrecords.com Trick Daddys got another notch for the catalog. This record is funky and shows Trick on a different level. Plus Trick continues to spit thought provoking word play when he explains why $100 bills smell like pubic hairs. 5. BHI / Dat Bubble Gum BME Contact: Sabrina Montgomery 404.367.8130 Just when you thought snap music was through, BHI will have the genre sticking around like Bubble Gum with this juicy record. 6. Young Dro / Rubberband Banks Grand Hustle/Atlantic Contact: Sam Crespo sam.crespo@atlanticrecords.com Young Dro takes a break from making his shoulder lean to show that that record has set him up rather lovely. In other words his rubberbands have expanded like his bank account. 7. Bohagon ft. Crime Mob & Fabo / Wuz Up BME Contact: Sabrina Montgomery 404.367.8130 Bohagon, the B-M-E- representa, strikes a strong blow for those who are interested in having their bass bins blown up by an MC that will make your cones snap to the music. Plus, with Crime Mob checking in on the track shaking their dreads, the track is elevated to another club banging dimension. And thats wuz up! 8. Young Buck ft. 50 Cent / Do It Myself G-Unit/Interscope Contact: Rosalie 310.592.2121 The theme of the record is really simple. When you need to make improvements on how you live, like Home Depot you should do it yourself and G-Unit with 50 Cent can help. In fact, 50 lets a few bullets off of his chest by drawing a retaliatorial line in the sand. 9. Yola / Aint Gonna Let Up Grand Hustle/Atlantic Contact: Sam Crespo sam.crespo@atlanticrecords.com At first listen, the Caribbean steal drums in the production lead to a laid back vibe until Yola gets on the track and crushes all haters in the way. Straight up, Yola is a monster in training. By the way, watch out for T.I. - the executive. Quiet though. 10. Young Capone / Wat It Iz So So Def/Virgin Contact: Tikke Chaney 212.786.8215 This is a Nitty beat that Young Capone takes full advantage of. Young Capone is a nice addition to the So So Def/Virgin stable. Hes been in the minor leagues getting his weight up and from the sound of this record; it is time for him to be called up to the majors. 11. Magic ft. Detroit / Shorty BHE/TVT Contact: TVT 212.979.6410 Magic knows that shorties love a gangsta. And Magic is more than eager to deliver yet another quality tune that the people want. Be on the lookout for Magic, he is on another level since his rise from the ashes of New Orleans. 12. Obie Trice / Jamaican Girl Interscope Contact: Rosalie 310.592.2121 Taking the lead from Eminem the producer on a carefully crafted island tune, Obie Trice demonstrates that he is not afraid of change. And in fact, flows well on the oceans of this tropical melody. 13. Chyna Whyte ft. Gangsta Boo & DJ Demp / Drop A Bundle BME Contact: Sabrina Montgomery 404.367.8130 Finally, China White has come back to whup tracks and beat bass with a gangsta style unmatched by any other MC. She has recruited Gangsta Boo and DJ Demp, the shorty pimp to accentuate an already club crunching record soon to break needles across the South. 14. Jibbs / Chain Hang Low Geffen Contact: Rosalie 310.592.2121 Jibbs perfectly translates a childrens nursery rhyme into a tune that celebrates opulence. If the thought rolls eyes, keep an open mind, remember there were many people who felt Nelly could never sell a record with a nursery rhyme, and he turned out alright. 15. Daz ft. Kurupt / Daz Thang So So Def/Virgin Contact: Tikke Chaney - 212.786.8215 Daz reached back to his roots with a jam just short of 7 Minutes of Funk and he brought The Whole Darn Family by reuniting with the OG DPG Kurupt. Jermaine Dupri is in a great zone right now and continues the trend with another hot one. Oh, and the XXX rated video of this tune is a great way to have your break today. 16. M.O.S. / Drug Related Jive Contact: Chad Brown jivemixshow@gmail.com On Drug Related, M.O.S. speaks of life in the land of Carolina blue where life wasnt guaranteed. Its not the life thats celebrated, M.O.S. is happy he made it and with tracks this good, Im sure Jive is too. 17. Young Hot Rod ft. Mary J. Blige / Be Easy - Interscope Contact: Rosalie 310.592.2121 Anytime the Queen blesses a track a certain polish remains leaving the listener with the understanding of what makes soul music feel so good. Young Hot Rod is old enough to know when a blessing is bestowed upon him and crafts a record worthy of royalty. 18. Plies / Take Off Slip-N-Slide/Atlantic Contact: Sam Crespo sam.crespo@atlanticrecords.com For the record, Plies is not the future of Slip-N-Slide, hes the right now. And if you come up shorting Plies, you better take off cuz he has no problems seeing you about it - hes got lots of bond money behind him. 19. Trillville ft. Kandi & Cutty Cartel / Eat It Up BME Contact: Sabrina Montgomery 404.367.8130 Trillville has teamed up with everyones favorite multi-platinum flavored Kandi to make a track that tastes so good, you have to Eat It Up. Be prepared to dance off the pounds because a joint that tastes this good cant be good for your health. 20. Lyfe Jennings ft. Lala Brown / S.E.X. Sony/Columbia Contact: Cara Lewis 212.903.1316 One word: wow! This is the definition of a great record that is sure to boost the population 9 months from its release. - Keith 1st Prophet Kennedy, keith@tjsdjs.com
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tjs djs tastemakers xclusives disc 2

1. Plies ft. Akon / I Wanna Slip-N-Slide/Atlantic Contact: Sam Crespo sam.crespo@atlanticrecords.com If you were trying to find a great way to express your feelings about how talented a dancer in the pole position is, this is the record for you. Akon opens many mainstream doors for the judicially prepared Plies as this record will get more action than the champagne room. 2. 8Ball & MJG ft. Diddy / Ridin High Bad Boy/Atlantic Contact: Sam Crespo sam.crespo@atlanticrecords.com Traditional 8Ball & MJG fans may not be used to the duo on an up tempo S. Florida ride out vibe, but give them a chance and youll be impressed. And if youre worried about how Diddy mic checks; dont worry if he writes rhymes, he writes checks. 3. DJ Unk / Walk It Out Big Oomp/Koch Contact: Gazelle 212.353.8800 x266 DJ Unk with Walk It Out continues the Big Oomp tradition of keeping folks musically intoxicated while they shake jelly on the dance floor. One time to DJ Montay who is in a great production zone right now. 4. Da Backwudz / The World Could Be Yours Rowdy Contact: Eli Brown - 404.345.0609 Milwaukee Black turns in another masterpiece with Da Backwudz lacing the verses. Women, listen closely and Da Backwudz will tell you the tale of why men need space. The lesson - be easy and the world could be yours. 5. Smoot ft. Slim Thug, Chamillionaire, & Killa Kyleon / Grain Grippa - Kwik Contact: Smoot - 310.497.2880 Direct from the town thats so cool its got two drop top stadiums, Smoot helps Houston continue its run of candy painted tunes that are sweet to your CD player. 6. Blak Jak / Bobbin My Head 1972/Vintage Sounds Contact: Jerry Clark 404.966.0010 When this record drops, youll have no choice but to ride & swerve, throw up deuces, and start bobbin ya head. Blak Jak has a knack for making those records that just make you feel good in your ride as if you just left a fresh detail shop. 7. Shawt prod. Mannie Fresh / Im Da Man Akright Contact: Heidi Buech - 310.869.4010 With a proclaimed beat king like Mannie Fresh behind him, its no problem for Shawt to claim that Im Da Man. Thankfully, he has the skills to make the track Akright and develop into a record worthy of such acclaim. 8. Hard Head Jacob / Trap All Day Stay Paid Contact: Rio 678.283.8057 In order to stay paid, Hard Head Jacob outlines his daily routine while working at the Trap All Day. The hard bass line is strong enough to scare the trap rats away and vibrates speakers enough to trap the hood rats. 9. Big Koon & Hollywood / Take It Back Two Dogg Contact: Johnny Vickers - 850.443.5999 If you needed extra motivation to get your stacks up, Big Koon & Hollywood murderize this cut to provide a sense of urgency to collect that paper. 10. Small Tyme Ballaz / Be Rich One Day Small World/Long Money Contact: Uncle Paully - 334.221.8497 Just because youre a baller on a budget doesnt mean you cant have big tunes. If you have an optimistic outlook and hustle hard like the Small Tyme Ballaz, youll be rich one day too. 11. Wine-O / Pop My Trunk Wine-O/Universal Contact: Heidi Buech - 310.869.4010 Fed up with the haters dipping into his business, Wine-O has popped the trunk and is ready to lay haters to rest. This jamming track is your warning - stop the gum flappin before this capn gets to poppin! 12. Lil Ru / King Of The Parking Lot Bout What Contact: Greg Fish 803.731.8173 DJ Brad of the Legion of Doom laces a beat that Lil Ru takes full advantage of. When this track drops in the classic rides outside of the club, Lil Ru will officially be crowned King of the Parking Lot. 13. Urban Mystic ft. Stacks / I Refuse (Remix) Sobe Contact: Buggah 305.754.6446 Urban Mystic, the lil guy with a big soul has found the right combination to make em make em clap to this like Rakim on repeat. It involves Rick Ross, Stacks, and a hip-hop classic that makes you refuse to listen to this record only once. 14. Tiffany ft. Jacki-O / Automatic Phamus Folks Contact: Micky Rollins 786.586.4653 Thanks to Gorilla Tek, Tiffany and the Miami Madame Jacki-O jump in for a musical ride a la Thelma & Louise that keeps you hanging on to your seat as if youre flying off a cliff. 15. Durt Mobb Clik / She Wrong 4 Dat - Da Mouf Contact: Pope 910.474.6559 Mixing well with the snap beat sets, Durt Mobb Clik have arrived to become the club fashion police by drawing attention to all of the reasons why a club chick goes home lonely. 16. Baby Boy / The Way I Live Universal/Republic Contact: O.J. Wedlaw - 212.584.5406 When you live the life of Baby Boy it is standard to be grown and still ride big wheels. Plus, it helps to have a hook thats fun to sing along to as DJs watch this record go round and round. 17. Sonia Collymore ft. Black Majik / No Cash Flow Manatee Contact: Doc 312.226.9034 If the road to hell is paved with good intentions, Sonia Collymore is one of the hottest artists on the market as she wants to buy her man so many good things but theres No Cash Flow. With a tune this vibrant it wont be long before Sonia leaves her money woes behind. 18. Decky ft. Max Minelli / Louder - Divided Soul Contact: Brent Dixon - 225.315.1772 Decky made a smart move by keeping the in-house production of Divided Soul as they laced a beat with a nice mix of scratching and a protruding bass line. With a track produced this well you will have no choice but to turn the music Louder. 19. Black Majik / Put Your Drink Up Manatee Contact: Doc 312.226.9034 Black Majik fits a perfect slow mo flow over production that makes your ears hear double as if intoxicated by this Chicagoans lyrical sensations. 20. Coalition / Alarm Pure Platinum Contact: Big Boo - 901.240.5491 Driving two miles an hour so everybody sees the Coalition, haters will have to raise the alarm to alert the block that true ballers are on the set. And with a cup of drank in their palm the Coalition aint bout to let no B.S. pass on this cruisin tune. - Keith 1st Prophet Kennedy, keith@tjsdjs.com

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tjs djs tastemakers xclusives disc 3

1. Khao / Keyz In The Air Intaprize/GTT Contact: Tanya Marvin - 866.379.0027 Although he has production credits on TIs The King, Khao cant rest until he gets a throne of his own. With this cut, Khao with a solid lyrical beatmaking K.O. will have other artists putting their keys in the air because its time for them to go home. 2. Crime Mob / Rock Yo Hips BME Contact: Sabrina Montgomery 404.367.8130 For those who love chicks rocking hips to that Crime Mob crew, this joint is for you. When this beat drops make sure you hold on tight because if shes got that Beyonce lusciousness you may be in for a long ride. 3. Tampa Tony / Bobbahead SouthBeat Contact: James Jackson - 305.695.6730 Tampa Tony takes a break from pushing his Blunt Splittas to describe his favorite chick, the Bobbahead. For those who are slow, the Bobbahead is a chick who loves to bob her head like a bobble head found at the ball game. If a Bobbahead acts right, they might end up on Tampa Tonys dashboard. 4. Lil Flip / Im A Balla Asylum/Warner Bros. Contact: Asylum Promotions 212.707.3030 True ballas are the ones that know how to flip their chips over and over. Even on a new imprint, Lil Flip will continue to define what ballin is all about. Plus, it doesnt hurt if you have the luck of a leprechaun on your side. 5. J-Shin ft. T-Pain / Sent Me An Email SouthBeat Contact: James Jackson - 305.695.6730 Roger & Zapp were years ahead of their time singing about Computer Love. Now, J-Shin & T-Pain put together a nice lil diddy that explains what love in the computer generation is all about. And it aint always something to LOL about. Beware of those viruses! 6. Randy B. / Its Over Now Southern Boy Contact: Randy B. - 850.766.6356 Love past its expiration date can be a traumatic experience. Thankfully, Randy B. has been able to encapsulate the feelings of a breakup and strike the right chords to make the song cry instead of you. 7. T-Hud ft. UGK & Static Major / Never Thought T-Hud/Nutty Boyz Contact: Nikki - 612-720-8252 T-Hud never thought he would have a track this good unless he hooked up with certified platinum stars like UGK and Static Major (songwriter, Ginuwine, Aaliyah). Thankfully, T-Hud will have nothing but clear skies and great weather forecast for his future with this jamming tune. 8. Jovan Dais / Came A Long Way Nzone Contact: Bernard Parks - 404.753.6522 DJ Toomp has shared his bag of Hollywood Magic to have Jovan Dais pair with the 5 Heartbeats Eddie Caine to form a duo who have come so far but have so far to go. By the end of this record you will know that on nights like this nobody can be Jovan Dais. 9. D-Shep / Stay Real Conspiracy Music Contact: Mike Rojas - 305.672.7562 Opponents of the use of the N word stay away from this tune. D-Shep flips the word by wisely blending the hook to phrase the emotionally charged term in a way that makes you say, it may not be right, but I understand. 10. G-Mack ft. Young Ca$h / Checks Out Lost Land Contact: Kaper - 614.596.7485 From Kentucky to Duval, G-Mack and Young Ca$h unabashedly run shit. So if you listen to this tune and you hear them talk about it, you already know its for real. So respect their gangsta or rest in peace. 11. Willo Da Don / Hustle All Day, Ball All Night Two Dogg Contact: Johnny Vickers - 850.443.5999 All work and no play makes Willo Da Don a dull artist. Thats why he has to make sure that if he hustles all day, ya gotta ball all night. Its only right to have a party soundtrack so tight. 12. Strangers / Guac Two Dogg Contact: Johnny Vickers - 850.443.5999 Although they may be strangers to you, these Strangers are no strangers to getting plenty of guac. With this bass thumping tune, the Strangers provide a new use for stacks of chips. 13. Scoundrel Squad ft. Bohagon / Pat Em Down Invisible Contact: Pamela Shelby - 706.984.5406 Fresh from a nod by Billboard Magazine, the Scoundrel Squad have been getting much attention from the haters. So, they need to Pat Em Down at the door to make sure that no foolishness goes down at the shows. And be forwarned these Savannah sergeants play no games. 14. Suga Suga / Studio Trap Nzone Contact: Bernard Parks - 404.753.6522 DJ Toomp fresh off one of the hottest tunes of the season (TIs What U Know About) has lent his production talents to his artist Suga Suga who put some work in the studio. With this much bang in the studio other MCs dont stand a chance. 15. Killa Kim / I Pop Phamus Folks Contact: Micky Rollins - 786.586.4653 Killa Kim masterfully rides this track into submission and has the beat in her total control making it pop and bend to her will. Luckily shes brought us along for the trip. 16. La Chat ft. Yo Gotti / Baby Mamma Drama Inevitable Contact: Mario Myers - 901.406.4528 Yo Gotti & La Chat are the baddest thing smoking from Tennessee since that hillbilly boogie! Yo Gotti & La Chat has been making noise on the underground for the longest and with this track the underground will continue to bubble their name like a 5 prong bong. 17. Alozade / Bad Out Deh Manatee Contact: Doc - 312.226.9034 Lawdamercy! Alozade knows its Bad Out Deh so he has to shoot em down wit a bang bang like he was trying to Kill Bill. This is a nice sample of a rude bwoy living the life of a true shotta on a mellow groove. 18. Haitian Fresh / On My Own Fresh Productions Contact: Ms. Rivercity - 904.465.0745 Although Haitian Fresh is in the streets and grinding on his own, he always has the isle of Haiti on his back. And with a legion that strong no force can stand against him. 19. Young A ft. Juvenile / Down N New Orleans Akright Contact: Heidi Buech - 310.869.4010 Down N New Orleans reveals a dark side of the Crescent City that has become more ruthless since Queen Katrina established her reign of terror. With Young A & Juvenile tag teaming to tell the truth on this track, they show that like a stale beignet, it aint sweet. 20. Raw LT ft. Bun B / Getcha Mind Right BBH Contact: Big Bank Hank - 832.215.7317 Raw LT rides the track like a royal highness should. With Bun B getting her back, I wish somebody would try and disrespect the crown. 21. F.A.S.T. ft. Smoke / Str8n Me Fat Fred Contact: JB - 850.528.5028 Smoke from the po folk lyrical assassins, Field Mob reaches out to F.A.S.T. to lace a track that will Str8n anyone being disrespectful. - Keith 1st Prophet Kennedy, keith@tjsdjs.com

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sponsors
We at TJs DJs & OZONE Magazine wish to thank the following partners who helped to make the 2006 TJs DJs Tastemakers DJ/Music Conference & 1st Annual OZONE Awards the Greatest Event In Southern Music History!
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