by Eminem: Guess who’s back? That’s right. Slim Shady. Eminem. Marshall Mathers. Whichever name you choose, this man is back and in full force! Sorry this is just a clip, but this is what happens when you hear a track before it’s officially released! If this track is any indication of the other tracks off the same titled album, Relapse, it will be a hot one! This beat is sick and I like how he switches up the sound of his voice. Granted his lyrics are risky, but they have always been. You have to know to expect that from Slim. The rap game is REAL interesting these days…In 2008, we had albums from Lil Wayne, T.I., The Game, Nas, and Young Jeezy while albums from Kanye, Big Boi, and Dr. Dre will come before December 31st. When Em drops an album, the music game will be CrAzY!?! Only thing we will need is an album from Jay-Z to be the cherry on top.

by Big Boi ft. Mary J. Blige: I consider myself a member of the “Youth in America” and there are a few times when I am exposed to songs that share a real message, being the reason hip-hop was originated. I like tracks that intend to make a change and inspire individuals to do something. What a better time than with the 2008 presidential election? Several artists are showing their support of Barack Obama, which I believe is untraditional. I’m not sure if it is because he is an African American or because the artists believe in Obama’s power to change (I actually believe it’s both), but there is substantial influence in an artist’s support of a candidate. I do not remember any artists including John Kerry in any tracks, and Bill Clinton was only mentioned in music after his tenure. Issues that affect Americans hinder everyone, from the homeless to millionaires. The country is in a serious state of emergency. So what if Ludacris informs his listeners to “Get out and vote [for Barack] or the end will be near?” It’s the truth! Big Boi and Mary created a similar meaningful track with less harsh lyrics. EVERYONE needs to hear this song!