jordan@djbooth.net's TOP HIP HOP SINGLES

“Top-5 album of the year.”

“The female vocalist on this record is Graph Nobel, one third of Talib Kweli's new group Idle Warship. The Clipse are not only my favorite rap duo, but they are one of my favorite rap acts period (solo and group). Yeah, this song isn't the coke-rap Clipse we love, but it shows how they can't be boxed into one signature style either. In fact, a lot of the songs on "TTCD" show Malic and Pusha's ability to incorporate mainstream characteristics into their performances while still keeping it real at the same time. I heard the video for "Champion" is suppose to debut on ESPN? Haha I can so picture ESPN playing this song during NBA games before they cut to commercial break.”

“Please pray for Haiti! I just donated to Music for Relief and downloaded the project. Big ups to Lupe and Kenna too for bringing awareness to Africa's water crisis.”

“Yowzers, this is hot fiya. I'm with you, Z. Trey Songz made the original version what it is today anyway.”

“Tanya Morgan is a rap group! "Brooklynati" is one of my top-5 favorite albums of '09. Nice job Z for snatching them for the freestyle series. D-O-P-E.”

“Awesome. I'm loving the passion.”

“This is dope. The laid-back, relaxed beat really allowed El Prez to shine.”

“Man, how am I suppose to get in on this when I'm stuck at school for the next 8 hours. Hopefully it'll still be on and running when I get back home. AC blessed the DJBooth with a hot one!”

“That's what's up! Nice one, Don Cerino. Classic Dre.”

“^ Wow, are you guys serious? Black Thought (the most underrated MC imo) freakin' rips Jay Dee's drums apart. The beat is from Dilla's "Beat CD '05 #1" and I'm happy to hear many of his old gems are resurfacing for this project. PAY JAY!!”

“Chrisette's first single "Epiphany" is buzzing as of late and I was expecting to hear a little more dynamics between her and Ne-Yo on this track. But after giving it thought, I actually liked how Ne-Yo stood his own ground and provided more of a soothing back-drop rather than a complete feature verse. It shows that Chrisette is an extremely talented vocalist who really should be receiving more recognition for her authentic originality and grace.”

“I diggg.”

“So I got the new issue of XXL in the mail yesterday with Officer Ross on the cover. I'm not hesitant to say that I hate Ricky's bogus lifestyle and distasteful attitude, but despite it all he still continues to make dope music. Who would've known? Officer Ross can ride with the boy boys.”

“At first listen you might think Theophilus London is just another hipster backpack rap aficionado. In reality, he always comes through with his own creative direction and "Oohs & Ahhs" is an example of that. He isn't trying to wow you lyrically, he's trying to wow you musically.”

“Wiz Khalifa goes in. RIP Dilla. @ Z: You haven't picked up "Labcabincalifornia" in 10 years?! Do yourself a favor a pop in the changer ASAP.”