Rest In Peace: The legendary DJ, Mr. Magic of the world famous rap attack on WBLS-New York

Wow. This is the first generation of hip-hoppers to experience their pioneers, founders and OGs passing away of natural causes and health issues. We have lost those who we admire and have watched blossom, from gunshots and unsolved murders, but now we are watching people like Roc Raida and Mr. Magic pass from biological causes.

Obviously the headline says it all, but just less than one week ago the incomparable pioneer of hip-hop radio and mix shows, Mr. Magic succumbed to a heart attack in New York City.  The hip-hop elder is unquestionably at the root of success for the careers of dozens of your favorite legends, including: LL Cool J, Marley Marl, UTFO, The entire Juice Crew, KRS-ONE and many more — the list can truly continue.

A cousin of mine from Harlem who used to live in the heart of Lakewood, used to go home during the summer and bring me back recorded copies of Mr. Magic’s amazing show. The recordings featured world premieres of LL Cool J’s album, Radio, and simply inspired me to get into radio and broadcasting to this day.  Learning about the passing of Mr. Magic was an overwhelmingly emotional moment and he to be remembered as the reason YOU now have quality hip-hop radio. You wouldn’t have hip-hop radio NOTHIN’ if not for Mr. Magic and the inspiration that he laid upon groundbreaking DJs like Nasty Nes and Nancy G right here in the Puget Sound.  Extra big shots to the legendary pioneer, Mr. Magic and the world famous Rap Attack!  Often imitated, NEVER duplicated!

Devin The Dude makes his way to Olympia

One of the most underrated MCs on the map will slinkily and smoothly make his way to the stage Wednesday night at Olympia’s Royal Lounge, when Devin The Dude headlines a strong show and line-up featuring Tac-Town’s Jay Barz, Olympia’s party crew, Junkyard Gang and DJ Luvva J (yours truly) on the 1s and 2s.

Since his days with Houston’s Odd Squad in the mid-‘90s, Devin has captured the minds and hearts of his listeners with blistering comedy, wordplay and an uncanny ability to tell stories — many of a sexual nature (check for his verses on “F**k Faces” with Scarface and “F**k You” with Dr. Dre).  Still for some reason or another, one of the most respected and sought after talents in the rap game is still slipping in and out of the mainstream radar. That’s OK though – those who know — KNOW.  Those who don’t can come and get a dose of the Texas legend next Wednesday at the Royal in Oly.
[The Royal, Devin The Dude, Jay Barz, Junkyard Gang & Luvva J, Wednesday, Oct. 14, 9:30 p.m., $15, 311 Capitol Way N., Olympia, 360.705.0760]

Winners Train, Losers Complain… Do Yo’ Thang!!!

Peace & Love
 
Jose S. Gutierrez Jr. is an award-winning editor, writer, producer, educator, music director and consultant.  A graduate of Washington State University and student at The Evergreen State College, he writes and edits the Pacific Northwest section of Ozone Magazine and hosts and produces Live From I-5 Radio (since ’89) every Friday at 3 p.m. on KAOS 89.3 FM (Comcast Ch. 982 / TCTV Ch. 22) in Olympia.