30
Jul
08

Dropped

Listen to the Audio: Hot 97

It really fascinates me how much feeling people put into a word.  I starting thinking a lot about the word “dropped” recently. A few months ago after my former label mate Bishop Lamont told an interviewer I was, “dropped” from Aftermath.  Very shortly after his interview the news of my being “dropped” was all over the net, announced on the radio and even ended up on the evening news in Puerto Rico. People I hadn’t heard from in years called to express condolences after they heard I got, “dropped”.

A few people in my Mom’s building even taped notes on her door to express there grief over my getting “dropped”.  My mom has stood by me throughout my struggle to get a record deal and she is really protective of me so that word “dropped” affected her a lot.  She called me crying when she heard I got, “dropped”

I explained to her that I asked to be released and not “dropped” but she kept asking me, “Why are doing this to you”  I told her no one was doing anything to me but that word,”dropped” had a grip on her.  She is cool now but it was hard talking to her during that time. All cause of a word. I’ve attached two conversations about me where people are using the word “dropped”. You can hear the emotions and the acting out that goes on around the word.

The first is where the rumor of me being dropped started.  It’s the Bishop Lamont interview.  During the interview Bishop is asked about me and my situation at Aftermath. Bishop sadly says, “don’t quote me but I think he got dropped.”

If you listen you can hear the mock concern about my being, “dropped” The whole, “I am sorry things didn’t work out” story gets going then Bishop goes on philosophizing on my lack of business savvy while dealing with the big Interscope machine. None of this banter is based in reality but it sounds good.  Now By no means am I trying to disrespect Bishop or the interviewer. I’m simply pointing out something we all do.  We all put feelings on words then create conversation to justify those feelings.

In the next conversation  about me and and my being “dropped” the emotions are completely different than the Bishop interview.  This conversation takes place Between miss Jones and dj envy from the morning show on hot 97.  In this conversation you  can clearly hear the contempt with which Miss Jones ridicules me over being, “dropped”   You can also hear some anger.  All the while Envy plays the role of impartial dj that’s just reporting what he heard.  It’s all very entertaining but again, none of it based in reality.

My next example of how we sometimes add emotions to situations and words is based on a conversation I had with my dude Joe Buddens after he was “dropped” from Def Jam   When I spoke to Joe he was wild happy that he got dropped.  I actually saw joy and relief in his face as he spoke. Joe chose a different way than most of looking at the situation.  He looked at the word, “dropped as opportunity and freedom”  That doesn’t make him right, it’s just the way he chooses to look at things.

In the past a few of my friends have accused me of over analyzing things. What do yall think?  Am I crazy or do people put way to much meaning into words.  please leave comments.  Would love to hear from you.

By the way, The reality is pretty simple. I asked to get released because I was told that a few albums had to come out before they could even get close to putting mine out.  Dre was kind enough to let me go and we worked out a deal where I will still be part of Detox.  I owe them no money and they cut me a nice check for my services thus far on Detox.  I am a relevant free agent with offers on the table and have more money from shows, writing and my deal with K1X then any advance I would get from a major label.  Most importantly,  I have publishing on one of the most important hip hop projects in the history of the genre. 

Gotta Love it!


104 Responses to “Dropped”


  1. 2 XXL Music Ed
    July 30, 2008 at 8:46 pm

    Great post my dude! We do tend to just throw words around in the community and business of hip-hop.

    The truth always comes to the light.

  2. July 30, 2008 at 9:05 pm

    Nice read…. Good luck on your Career Joell, one of the last real MC’s in the game right now

  3. 4 mcarroll4716
    July 30, 2008 at 9:05 pm

    I got a word….

    YEEEOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!

    Keep doing your thing!

  4. July 30, 2008 at 9:10 pm

    interesting perspective. i wish you the best of luck joell!

  5. July 30, 2008 at 9:12 pm

    Good read, man. And yeah, you’re right, the word “dropped” has a lot of different connotations. Its just a really bad look as far as your situation with Aftermath goes. I understand the way labels work, projects having priority over others and whatnot but still- you gotta give the people what they need. Why not put out the artist while his/her buzz is peaking? Thats so crazy to me. These dudes (label heads) wanna shelf artists until people dont even care anymore about their projects. In todays day hiphop head are mad fickle. They want the music NOW, not 10 months or 10 years later. Its just like with the whole Detox thing. Its lost 75% of the buzz is had back in 04′ -0’5. Why not give us glimpses of it? A single? A snippet? I dont get it, man. Regardless, keep doing you, Joell. You’re the truth, man. Latinos stand up!

    Bashwon

  6. 7 Busy
    July 30, 2008 at 9:14 pm

    Keeping doing what you doing playa. Your music needs to be heard. Glad to hear everything is working out for you.

    BK all day.

  7. 8 truth
    July 30, 2008 at 9:17 pm

    look at the industry man… it knows new york hip hop just aint about partyin and hitting up clubs because thats where the real money roles in. how can new york rappers bring money to the table yet still keep the true hip hop? once they figure this out maybe… guess nas is the only one holding this down.

  8. 9 finah111
    July 30, 2008 at 9:18 pm

    first off, you a raw spitter. something sorely lacking in this game. you’re like an updated melle mel to me. on the other page, i’m glad you were man enough to skate. being on aftermath(to me anyway)seems like holding on to a15 foot greased up lightpole. in my opinion, dre’s best days are behind him, i hope he proves me wrong. lastly, you’re hella talented. i wish you much success. hunnid.

  9. July 30, 2008 at 9:19 pm

    i didnt even know you had a blog thats dope

    check out my blog by clicking my name …..

  10. July 30, 2008 at 9:20 pm

    dam I didnt even know you had a blog

    check out my site by clicking my name

  11. 12 Ty
    July 30, 2008 at 9:20 pm

    From a fan’s perspective, I appreciate the insight you give as far as what the politics are like within the music industry….

  12. 13 truth
    July 30, 2008 at 9:20 pm

    look at papoose, saigon, joell, damn…. why u think nas made that terrible album nastradamus? why u think papoose made a trash song bang it out? ……. quite obvious. guess maino’s the only new york rapper out there that hits radio.

  13. 14 finah111
    July 30, 2008 at 9:20 pm

    oh yeah, lamonts single is horrible(imo).

  14. July 30, 2008 at 9:25 pm

    The industry is full of shit.. people tend not to be themselves or comfortable in their own skin regarding their actions and movements…

    The most important thing you’re doing is keepin shit 100 while pursuing your dream

    That and makin dope music

  15. 16 Sangano
    July 30, 2008 at 9:25 pm

    not trying to be harsh…but your buzz has fizzled out…y wouldn’t you want to stay on Aftermath and reap the advantages/security of being associated with them….instead of being another run of the mill independent rapper?…

    Budden’s situation was a lil different..i.e. he was sort of blackballed in his own building, so I can see him wanting to be released?

    but you?….

  16. 17 chea
    July 30, 2008 at 9:29 pm

    ur nice as fuck homie all the true fans of this shit love ur music so it’s a matter of time b4 u properly get ur album out. my only regret is ur not from chicago! keep doin u holmes it will pay mad dividends in the future and keep over-analyzing shit, why dumb it down, not enuf joells in the game *props*

  17. July 30, 2008 at 9:35 pm

    Nice entry to further clear the air on the whole being “dropped” situation when in reality it was about being released at your request.

    On another note, it would be dope to see a Joell Ortiz and Bishop Lamont track to come out.

  18. July 30, 2008 at 9:36 pm

    Sangano,

    What security is there in today’s record industry?
    You can’t be serious.

  19. 20 Laurence G.
    July 30, 2008 at 9:38 pm

    Fantastic post. New York and the whole hip-hop world is rooting for you Joell.

    Keep ripping those beats to shreads.

  20. July 30, 2008 at 9:53 pm

    You don’t have anything to worry about, Joell. You better tell these kids not to knock that Free Agent status.

  21. 23 t. blair
    July 30, 2008 at 9:57 pm

    Tell Bishop to get off your dick Ortiz… u nicer than dude anyway!!! Aint liek his shit is coming out anyway… how he gonna talk about working the Interscope machine when his momma handles all his business?? The only reason he still signed is because he sitting around as the lone ranger under Dre’s nutsack…

    Tell Bishop “Bally’s” needs him to report to work tomorrow by 9am – he’ll be handleing the 24minute work-out station!!!

    And this is Los Angeles talkin’!

    Bllaatt!!!!

  22. 24 Sangano
    July 30, 2008 at 10:00 pm

    it just seems to me that by remaining in that structure you’d have access to many of the best/hottest artists on the planet….i mean Aftermath is stacked….and proximity is power.

    just don’t count this as a knock, i really do wish you the success you deserve.

    it just seems crazy that a good artist such as yourself woud choose to distance yourself from Dre, Eminem, Busta, 50….

    the game must be fucked up….hope your bet pays off.

  23. July 30, 2008 at 10:02 pm

    RE: Sangano

    Majors got your balls in a vise grip. It’s not worth the stress and BS.

  24. 26 Paul Coughee
    July 30, 2008 at 10:04 pm

    yo bishop lamont defines wack….Joell is the nicest point blank…..crazy nice makes you hit rewind…he will own bishop ANY DAY …..

  25. 27 david
    July 30, 2008 at 10:26 pm

    hahah…you got dropped…aftermath sucks anyways dude….one good album in what 10 years?

  26. July 30, 2008 at 10:30 pm

    Ive been sitting trying to think of the last artist that came out on Aftermath. Im thinking it was Game. Am I wrong? Other than him, NOBODY else has gotten any shine. Where’s STATlanta? Is that shit EVER going to drop? Telling you, it seems like Aftermath is only concerned with the artists that have already established themselves (50, Em, etc). If you’re a new dude on the roster you’re looking at a few years before they even think of letting you drop. Who has that kind of time? Joell did the right thing.

  27. July 30, 2008 at 10:46 pm

    i think his buzz is far from “fizzling”…it was more about playing the system or not.
    timing is everything in this game. and to wait, and wait…and maybe see your “window of opportunity” leave…he didnt think it was worth it, so he bounced.

    this was more about being passionate about what you do and not letting anyone stop you from what you know you can accomplish AT THIS PRESENT MOMENT before the buzz “fizzles”. the time is NOW….not “after dre and busta and eminem drop”
    much respect Joell.

  28. 30 silvanutts
    July 30, 2008 at 11:00 pm

    Not even Dre puts out albums on aftermath

  29. 31 capicu
    July 30, 2008 at 11:12 pm

    you’re on of the best rappers I ever heard… keep putting out that incredible music!

    greetings from switzerland!

  30. 32 Dr Flav
    July 30, 2008 at 11:18 pm

    I haven’t heard much of your music, but I became acquainted through the Hip Hop Game blog, you appear to have a focus and your hard work is obviously acknowledged by many. I remember when you blogged about how excited you were upon signing. Its all good this makes you stronger, you gonna keep winning and this is coming from Nash Tn. Lol mama always got ya back. Peace Joell ***calls mother***

  31. July 30, 2008 at 11:45 pm

    Yo just found you from a blog -from a blog-from a blog.. dang. i think Good times is the 1st song i have heard, (that i know )-was you, …i hear ur name from Ciphenberg, but in saying all that… i think Good Times sends me back to that feeling i had with Jazzy Jeff & Fresh Prince with “Summertime”.
    Heads need to GROW UP and stop feeding into the emotional, (miss Jones) that was blown WAY out of proportion because it was poor journalism – if you gonna say something, and choose your words, you need to vet what your saying before you start a fire (like in your case).

    I (as a hip hop HEAD) appreciate you addressing this in the manner you are. don’t feed into the emaotional beast – it’s irrational. keep it in the music.

    i wish you the best man, holdin u down in daygo.

  32. 34 SH
    July 30, 2008 at 11:45 pm

    Mad props for telling it like it is and staying above the fray. I actually wouldn’t have faulted you for faulting Dre, getting at Lamont and kind of the whole record industry in general.

    With the state of the music industry as such, where you have to be freaking Madonna to cake off record sales strictly, it’s not even worth putting a record out on a major. I think you did the right thing to be released without any debt and just do it on your own a la your boy Joe Buddens. Speaking of which, you cats should do a track together if that hasn’t already happened.

    Good luck with everything. Are you going with Koch again? Babygrande (they need help)?

  33. 35 MIL
    July 30, 2008 at 11:57 pm

    hope u get a good deal n put that album out

  34. 36 M Breezo
    July 31, 2008 at 12:16 am

    We all knew this would come. Aftermath does this time and time again. I’m glad you’re going to be able to put out music on your own terms. You’re one of the best out right now. the game needs you.

  35. 37 Lefty of PHANATIX215
    July 31, 2008 at 12:40 am

    The streets don’t lie.
    J. Ortiz names is runnig thru Philly like crime
    Fuck the major is this what we wanted back in 88
    Cube called it “Hip-hop won’t be so nice. No Ice Cube just vanilla ice”

    kill’em Joe

  36. July 31, 2008 at 1:14 am

    I’m really proud to be part of this site.
    How great is it that an artist now has a way of communicating directly with fans without label interference?
    I definitely think you’re better off without Aftermath, and that’s no disrespect to Dre or anyone on there.
    The fact is, it doesn’t work well as a LABEL. One that puts out music and manages artists.
    There’s a lot of talent there that just isn’t being used.

  37. 39 wadup
    July 31, 2008 at 1:19 am

    yeowa im mad excited that u got a blog that i can comment on my dude. I been commentin on ur ish on HHG for a minute and been a fan ever since i heard ur 125 grams pt 1 and then when i heard the big pun tribute that shit was a WRAP!! you bring fresh air to me when i listen to ur tracks man foreals, ur a real dude with sick rhymes and a good message. and ur down to earth too which is important man u aint lettin the fame get to u i can imagine u up on stage at summer jam but then also be takin the subway to work in the mornin n hustlin, nah mean??

    anyway, enough dick ridin (no homo), i think u are one of the best out of my favorite MCs that haven’t made it big YET, which include: JOE BUDDEN, Royce da 5’9, AZ, termanology, crooked I, and shoutouts to papoose, saigon, and jae millz, or atleast the OLD jae mills before he hopped on the south wagon. those latter 3 im losin hope in, but u and joe budden especially i still think u got a huge shot at fame.

    I know u read all this shit, so I hope u take this seriously. Im feelin that remix of fab’s brooklyn joint. in my opinion, some other tracks i think ud sound good over are Game’s new “My Life” track , and over Statik Selektah track “So Hardcore” with Termanology and Reks. here r the links:

    You need to get on a PREMO TRACK ASAP!!! do another collabo with joe budden that shit was fire, and i think u already done it but u preme and termanology need to link up n do a BIG TRACK.

    i been followin ur career for a minute and ill be followin it til u blow. keep bringing that heat to the game its what hip hop and NYC needs right now. stay hungry dog. ONE

    -wadup from queens

  38. 40 T. A. Morales
    July 31, 2008 at 2:09 am

    It doesn’t matter where you go, as long as you doing what you doin you’ll us loyal fans! Just more bumps in the road of life thats all…If Aftermath didn’t recognize what they had, thats THEIR lost and a big mistake on their part…on some real shit tho…you and Joey should put out some more shit together..maybe even an album! WOOOW! THAT would be some shit. Hip Hop in its truest form right there.

  39. July 31, 2008 at 2:15 am

    Keep your head up, Work speaks for itself. Music speaks for itself. Quality speaks for itself.

    Keep releasing good music and nothing but good things will come.

    Keep working hard and don’t let the conotations of words keep you down.

    Much love, keep it up!

  40. 42 Jay
    July 31, 2008 at 2:23 am

    Yo I’m a real big time fan.

    i think you should’ve stayed in aftermath unless you got some better places hollering at you that see your vision. you could have stayed in aftermath and kept blazin shit up with mixtapes.. soon creating a buzz so big your album would be on that carter 3 anticipation level when it drops. i dont know if you plan to stay in that underground level man but i seriously think you need to hit up mainstream hard. When it comes to lyricism i know what bs from nice and trust no hate for him but you nicer then lil wayne.. man when i heard that 125bars pt. 5 i thought man this is lil waynes entire album on one song haha.

    if you can j.o. hit up my email.. i know some artist that would like to work with you before you get big time. lol

  41. 43 Jay
    July 31, 2008 at 2:48 am

    by the way.. damn whats with everyone that got that buzz in ny being dropped/released. Record companies must just be just caring about fruity tooty rappers that create only hooks… i dont hate on them cuz they do make hits and they getting money but damn they putting top dogs under these hook rappers. i bet if you ask a younger kid who better soulja boy or joell ortiz they would say soulja boy due to the fame.. shit like that gets to me :\

  42. 44 Jay
    July 31, 2008 at 2:52 am

    also plz drop that new album when u get a hit because i would hate to see a classic album go unnoticed by many just because you didnt have a hit single out.

  43. July 31, 2008 at 3:04 am

    talent doesn’t need a label. why wait around forever and let time pass you by? if i sent in a letter of resignation to my job, i would be a little upset if people were talking about i got “fired.”

  44. 46 morena
    July 31, 2008 at 3:31 am

    yo straight up, people don’t just attach feelings to words but those feelings are rooted deep in some other psychological shit from their fucked up lives. Straight up Bishop Lamont is jealous of your skill level, I guarantee you a lot of rappers are. When you got a dude as talented as you, ppl don’t wanna build you up, they want you gone so you can’t outshine them nah mean. And miss jones and them are failed losers who will not go nowhere in life and that dumb bitch just lost her job hhahahaha SHE THE ONE WHO GOT DROPPED ON HER UGLY FAT ASS BY HOT 97. FUCK EM ALL ORTIZ IS THE TRUTH AND THERE IS JUST NO DENYING THAT SHIT.

    budden and ortiz to me are greater then anything out. that track going to be insane.

    THE FREE AGENT

    ortiz for mayor of brooklyn.

  45. July 31, 2008 at 3:36 am

    Sometimes words can be taken out of context. As for myself I apologize for using the word in a recent email I sent you. I should of not used the word. I was kind of feeling the same way. People sometimes are looking from the outside in and don’t know what really goes on behind the scenes and go with what ever everybody else is saying. In life you gotta give to get. “When people get what they want, they realize how limited their goals were”. As far as what people think or define the “Word” as, that’s light work for you. Talent and real music will always stand out like a bum with his hand out.

    DJ Laser.

    http://www.DJLaser.Blogspot.Com

  46. 48 Young Guru
    July 31, 2008 at 3:42 am

    This is youngguru out of the roc a fella camp.I have been a fan from a distance for some time now. And that is the most intelligent thing that I have heard in a long time. You are going to be OK. don’t worry just keep putting out good music and get on a tour. Record labels only have but so much time anyway

  47. 49 Paul Coughee
    July 31, 2008 at 3:45 am

    asher roth >>>>> bishop lamont

  48. 50 Paul Coughee
    July 31, 2008 at 3:45 am

    team blackout >>>>> bishop lamont

  49. 51 2Gutta
    July 31, 2008 at 3:59 am

    joell uz a fuckin idiot. its FUCKIN AFTERMATH! rappers would sell there soul to work with dre! u couldnt wait like 2 years??? good luck on KOCH!

  50. July 31, 2008 at 4:01 am

    Bishop lamont>>>> every rapper out including joell

    u fuckers

  51. July 31, 2008 at 4:38 am

    J.O.,
    Thanks for clearing that isssue up. I’m excited for you because your career is in your hands. You never had a problem when this was the situation on the basketball court. You are gonna get your shot off pimpin’!

  52. 54 Fidel Ca$hflow
    July 31, 2008 at 5:04 am

    “Getting Dropped” from the label has a negative connotaion but seeing as you already got on the cover of xxl and had video’s on b.e.t. you’ll be fine as long as you stay on your grind.

    by the way the collabos you’ve done
    with B-Real, Omar Cruz, and Immortal Tech have been ill. hopefully you’ll continue to work with other talented latino artists.

  53. July 31, 2008 at 5:05 am

    @gutta… you a certified ReRe

    major labels are dead… been so since 2002-2003 n earlier

    why waste away on a shelf when you can get advance money, publishing and keep it moving?

    one of the problems with hip hop is people care more about your liquid assets than your lyrics and your portfolio than your production.

    aftermath aint a premiere label as far as puttin out talent. so if Joell got a portion n skated on his deal without owing how can anyone say he shoulda stayed when he wasn’t a priority.

    majors are political and A&R is dead. it’s been a DIY playing field since the internet do ya research.

  54. 56 Jay
    July 31, 2008 at 5:52 am

    @ 2Gutta.. shut the fuck.. joell dont even respond to that shit.

    Joell doesnt really need aftermath… he got the hype he needs and is real to what he does. hes not another artist relying on the record label to make him and depending on big names to make his music.. this man is a future legend and could rip shit up.. this guy can take your garbage beat made in fruity loops and make that shit sound heavanly haha

  55. July 31, 2008 at 10:05 am

    Keep ur head up man…..U don’t need a major and all the flair that goes with it…you got a good following that you can take advantage of. Keep it pushing

    -100

  56. 58 Flushill's Finest
    July 31, 2008 at 12:44 pm

    Fuck what everyone is talking about, you are truly one of the only artists that make me feel good about loving the art and culture. The way you come cross in your lyrics is unlike any other new comer. There’s always gonna be talk about what you did or should’ve done but the way you keep it 100 with the people is why you get more respect than most of these corny ass dudes. Keep up the good work and continue grinding. And represent us Boricuas to the fullest. From Mayaguez to Providence you get support from me. One.

  57. July 31, 2008 at 2:51 pm

    Ya niggas is crazy man. This is a blog. Joell’s blog, ya making this shyt in to a allhiphop.com forum. If ya don’t have anything positive to say don’t go somewhere else with that. Dudes like gutta and all these other haters don’t understand and appriciate music and hip hop the way true follewers do. You guys just fall in that catergory just like everybody else. Listeners. Not supporters.

    “Do You Fools Listen to Music or Do You just Skim Through it? See influenced by the Ghetto you Ruined, Them Same dudes that gave nothing I made something doing, what I do through and Through, I give you the news with his Ghetto point of View, the Renegade you been Afraid…..”

    Get in The Loop!!
    Know Your Shyt Before Anything Else.

  58. July 31, 2008 at 2:52 pm

    To Be Honest J.Im glad You Got Released.
    Cause To be real,From Rapper To Rapper,Ya Flow Is 2 Hot not 2 be heard (i aint Ridin ya) as it should be.So im prayin that wateva label you go to makes its an priority to put ur album out First,or very soon. Much Love My nigga.Do Ya thang Fam.

    Flatline.

  59. 61 D Ross
    July 31, 2008 at 2:56 pm

    Joell is the truth cats always brings it. My favorite MC these days

  60. July 31, 2008 at 3:55 pm

    Major’s aint the way to go for emcee’s. Let those ‘Rap Singers’ play the majors game.

    Those who respect the culture, are willing to grind and put out strong, real music, will continue to get dough in other ways.

    Good luck Joell.

  61. 63 qimmahs
    July 31, 2008 at 4:21 pm

    Words are powerful things Joell. They are weighted with many different meanings and doors to many different perspectives. Yea, the word “dropped” is a weighted word. But you are doing more than enough to combat it’s power with all the words that you are dropping on each dope track you contribute to hip-hop. Let it roll off your back and keep it movin’. That word will soon lose it’s significance. Btw, moosey says waddup..

  62. July 31, 2008 at 5:04 pm

    The word dropped has ill feelings amongst it because most artists that have been dropped have not made full recovery in their career. Minus 50 cent, Mariah Carey and whoever, but for the most part their career would never be the same. I mean in your case the music is consistently being released (Good Times is my shit) but the wide aspect is that we wanted to hear what you and Dre was gonna cook up in the kitchen. not sayin the connects are not still there but let me put it like this: I, as a fan of the culture, treat this like a home cook meal… you know “soul” food. its the best when the right people are in the kitchen sweating over it; Granny, ma dukes, maybe ya auntir too. but then travel outside of that home to paris or something, and they have the same meals. looks the same maybe even gives off that familar aroma, but unfortunately its doesn’t taste the same. not that its not refreshing and delicious, but it ain’t like “home” you get it? so seeing a favorite artist leave that home where all the food was good food….scares me as a fan. i don’t know if i can really enjoy the meal the same way again….IDK holla back!

    PS. I Got Beats..hit up the “space”

    Myspace.com/yncbeatz

  63. 65 t. blair
    July 31, 2008 at 8:31 pm

    @Gutta if you dont knock it off… Bishop is CORN feed nigga… look at all his interviews he’s a clown and he does clown shit…only corn balls relate to dude…

    and aftermath been trash since Scott Storch, JR Rotem & Mike Lynn left… Bishop album wont ever drop on “The ‘Math” and thats on my momma or his…

    POW!!!

  64. July 31, 2008 at 8:44 pm

    Great post fam, keep your head up, f*ck a major, keep grindin’!

  65. July 31, 2008 at 10:01 pm

    Truth be told, the industry has been in the dumps for years now since digital download/filesharing. The majors have been trying to find their way out of it, but their mindset is very conservative, and can’t figure it out.

    Your release is definitely a positive thing. You said it best in that you’ll probably make more dough off of shows, publishing and whatnot than any advance a major will give an artist NOW. They can’t afford it.

    And believe, your buzz ain’t die, homeboy. I’m in New Orleans, where you can’t hear an artist like you. I still got the word on yourself, and so many other quality artists who will get their due. Look at Rock the Bells…its coming of the times.

    good shit…brother…especially the “chuleta” reference of the new “Good Times”…got me dreaming of El Malencon

  66. 68 hav
    August 1, 2008 at 12:54 am

    its fucked up that labels treat you like your first girlfriend. Though you parted ways amicably, she still tells all her friends and family that you got dropped.

    Anyways good to hear that you got some power moves in the works. That’s always inspiring.

  67. August 1, 2008 at 3:16 am

    You’re absolutely right that people put too much emphasis on that word. Some of it’s justified tho cuz a lot of artists don’t rebound well after really being dropped from their label. You know in hip-hop image trumps reality all day. We’re just an extension of American culture which is clearly f*cked up and misguided these days. But I digress. Bottom line is, you’re still dope as fcuk and I never liked East Coast cats rockin with Dre anyway (save Fiddy). For the most part we don’t fit his mold. So keep comin out with the gritty NY sh*t and u got my fideen dollaz in the bag…Holla

    Greazy Fingaz
    Duepayer.com

  68. August 1, 2008 at 12:27 pm

    You’ve got the drive and the sense of purpose to make it regardless of any label situation. Being on a label (or working for a major corp for that matter) is like being a trustee on the plantation. Small fish are not meant to get far. Being an independent contractor, although that’s what a lot of the American dream is built on, somehow has become a shameful pursuit. F*** that. You have the business savvy and the talent to have them come to you. You proved you could get to that point and will do so again. You got love from the blogs, and the radio…keep banging. From the lone interview I conducted with you at Koch, I could tell you were not in it for the short run.

  69. August 1, 2008 at 1:52 pm

    Did u Joell discuss with Aftermath the priority of your album release when u were signing the deal? Was you aware that it wouldn’t be too soon?
    The connotations of “dropped” actually kinda depend on the deal conditions too.

  70. August 1, 2008 at 1:57 pm

    Did u Joel discuss with Aftermath the priority of your album release when u were signing the deal? Was you aware that it wouldn’t be too soon?
    The connotations of “dropped” actually kinda depend on the deal conditions too.

  71. 73 [B]. ®oane
    August 1, 2008 at 2:09 pm

    I could tell that in your situation it was different. The the thought of being “dropped” carries so much stigma with it. With you it was different because you stepped up your output after the fact and didn’t diss anyone just for the hell of it. Just because you’re not working with Dre, a bunch of stans are going to shit on you and whatnot [Fuck ‘Em]. I’ma just say keep doing your thing, my dude.

  72. August 1, 2008 at 8:44 pm

    Good shit Joell…keep doing ya thing dukes. Cats appreciate and SUPPORT you ova here.Don’t dumb it down for shit,everyone I put on to you becomes a fan no more than 10 bars in.Find a good situation and make that shit pop(As if you wouldn’t).

    Peace, Clubba Lang

    dotgotit.blogspot

  73. August 1, 2008 at 10:30 pm

    Ah shit. Joell put my video up. I saw this link on NahRight’s shit, and I was like hmmmmmm. I wonder if he’s referring to that Bishop statement.

    Big Ups Joell. You and Buddens are genuinely two of the only rappers I have faith in to actual keep rap music cordial. Definently the most talented from the east, just don’t got that extra push.

    I feel you on the label drama.

  74. 76 meccaceo
    August 2, 2008 at 1:37 am

    Good Post Big up to JOEL ORTIZ!!
    http://www.MECCACEO.WORDPRESS.com
    Mecca-Global

  75. 77 NYVAN
    August 2, 2008 at 3:29 am

    It’s the norm to expect people to catch feelings over a “word.” Think about it, language is so god damn powerful, that even a word creates a buzz. A simple “word” brings an idea, belief, feeling, into existence na mean?

    And you are in the entertainment business, which is going to come with a lot ups, downs, and bullshit. Such as people aint getting their facts straight and spreading false rumors about you being dropped. But hey, atleast you’re spoken about. And yeah, it’s wack that every one including your loves one is feeling down about the false news, but atleast you know you got people around you who cares.

    All you need to do is clarify things with them and it’ll be all good which i’m sure you already did.

    But no, i dont think you are over analyzing shit, cause you’re obviously educated and a smart dude. You observe your surroundings and remain consious on whats really good. And that what makes you different in a good way.

    Anyway Im going to end it with this. Keep your head up and you have been through rougher shit and remember that every thing happens for a reason. Dont lose sleep over it, just clarify shit and keep making that good ass music. Hip hop needs you. You’re the only real talented rapper around mang. Point blank.

    YOU RUN THIS SHIT. one.

  76. August 2, 2008 at 10:02 am

    The emotion that individuals place behind words is often reminiscent of a crank. Misinformation, random errors of judgement, or someone just not minding their own muthafuckin’ business, begins to turn that “crank” and the “crank” in turn, begins to twist the original truth into something else which hardly ever resembles the original idea. The proverbial “3 second soundbyte” theory comes into play and misguided perceptions become “truth” to the public. The public isn’t often as smart as it should be, sadly…

    Niggas be losin’ life over much less than this on a daily basis where we grew up at Joell. Your situation brings to mind some of the trials that I’ve faced in my own music career. I know what it is to have my words twisted and also to watch blatant attempts made against my namesake. I’m still here, and still doing my thing, Thank God. Most of all, I can proudly say that I have never lost my integrity as a man or as a musician. I got love for you brother, and I still remember the days of you Wreck, Gramz, Proof, M.dot, and others in crazy ciphers in the old lab. It was always clear to me, that you’d be where you are today; On the threshold of greatness. Keep doin’ it your way, and watch them all come back to you with apologies in tow. I’m waiting on that day myself.

    Perseverance is the best Revenge…

    – Chink aka Renaissance

    Still got beats for u my dude even tho u’ve gone slightly Hollywood of late… lol

  77. August 2, 2008 at 3:19 pm

    Dope post and its refreshing to hear some mature honesty in hip hop for a change. Look forward to whatever you drop next

  78. 80 wax
    August 5, 2008 at 4:10 pm

    you’re a nice MC and I’d rather see you drop a series of indie albums than waste away on aftermath anyway…. Obviously I dont know the details and from your post it sounds like you got something out of it, but from this side of the fence, MC’s signing to aftermath is kind of like MC’s signing to Death Row – the question is always “WHY?”

  79. August 5, 2008 at 6:42 pm

    i hope other independent artists are up on this blog… it’s a great resource for first hand experience in the industry.

  80. August 6, 2008 at 3:53 pm

    Words do have power and cuz of the light speed of global (shit even regional) communication it affect people farther and faster.

    Its tough to hear your moms took it so bad, glad shes cool now.

    As you’ve stated you’re gonna be good and i wish you well so if anyone keeps up that bullshit just tell’em to sniff ya nut sack.

  81. August 8, 2008 at 12:06 pm

    Dope Post…Keep Em’ Comin’

  82. 84 ghost107
    August 10, 2008 at 5:54 pm

    yo its nice to see people not using stuff like the bishop interview as a reason to have a commercialised battle to create a buzz, joell one of the best in the game right now no question. I’m in UK and i managed to cop the brick album and waited three months for the who the fuck is joell ortiz mixtape lol… keep doing what you doing…peace

  83. 85 GITTYMO DETROIT
    August 16, 2008 at 1:47 am

    IM GLAD U EXPLAIN THAT BECAUSE I WAS JUS TALKIN ABOUT U PROBALY DIDNT WANT WAIT FOREVER TO (DROP) YOUR SHIT

  84. 86 ratz
    August 16, 2008 at 4:09 am

    I love ur music…nice balance of G with a sense of ur surroundings….Your one of my favourite MCs. Im all the way in New Zealand and i can feel the truth in your rhymes. No doubt u can run circles round 99.99% of these clowns and go up against anyone ANY1….I would love to hear a New York album with U, Bank$(he been goin really nice lately ) i think will help both of yall. U can get some more publicity, Banks can prove he can hold his own with anyone and would shit on others with a real Ny feel…..well thats my opinion. I mean no point doin a mixtape with an unknown person… the 2 most slept on MCs

  85. August 20, 2008 at 3:02 pm

    Joell,

    I dig your style and I respect you grind. I feel what you saying about having to wait. It’s a common occurrence in the hip-hop game a lot of labels sign a hot artist just to place them on “the shelve” and in turn they end up going out of style or the buzz disappears. Keep your grinding, stay positive and “Plante Sigue Plante”…

    Latinos are counting on you mang… I got your back…

    -Rik Diamonds
    D’Empire Inc.
    (Oscar Black – All About a Dollar {Coming Soon} & Julio Mena – “TBA” {Coming Soon} Stay tuned)

  86. 88 Block Royale
    August 21, 2008 at 2:26 am

    YEEEOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW!!!!

    aftermath just lost one tha best if not the best artist on its label! keep ya head up my nigga u got no reason not to? u got more BUZZ in tha fuckin streets than the Detox project right now! no disrespect to DRE but its a fact! an u got paid so its all good!

  87. 89 Block Royale
    August 21, 2008 at 2:29 am

    AFTERMATH JUST LOST ONE OF THE BEST IF NOT THE BEST ARTIST ON THE LABEL! WORD UP!

    BUT KEEP YA HEAD UP MY DUDE! BESIDES YOU GOT MORE BUZZZ IN THE STREETZ RIGHT NOW THAN THE DETOX PROJECT NO LIE!

  88. August 22, 2008 at 1:19 pm

    Good post… I think you said what you had to say without actually saying it. What is mean. Whatever the parting situation was or what others choose to see it as, people are going to tell the story in a way that benefits them. If you are in the media,and you tell the public such and such artist ask to be release from their contract doesn’t sound interesting, doesn’t get people to listen to your show, doesn’t get people to buy your magazine. But they said such and such artist “GOT DROPPED!” that sells, now it’s interesting at least to them it is and people who choose to believe what they hear. To me it seems like the two interviews are completely different it think Bishop Lamont was being partial and safe I think he just didn’t know the situtation.I don’t think he meant any disrepect to you. Unlike Miss Jones and Envy who went out of their way to bring it up and seemed to enjoy kicking a person when they are down. Unstead of
    tell someone on the air that their record won’t come out for three years she could have took you to the said offered advice. She was an artist(who bricked by the way and probably was “DROPPED”).

    What they didn’t hear is you saying and I quote:
    “I will still be part of Detox.I owe them no money and they cut me a nice check for my services thus far on Detox” and “Most importantly, I have publishing on one of the most important hip hop projects in the history of the genre” Now alot of people would take that a face value and wouldn’t know what that meant. But when Dr. Dre sounds like Joell Ortiz on the Detox album they will. People only see the person shining what they need to see is a person like you holding the light. Your whole career you had to deal with this type of nonsense, that’s because you one of the last of the dying breed who stands out and they don’t know what to do with you. There are NOT many artists out there that are game changers and real threats because they are too busy trying to sound like everybody else. Some of that is because the labels have them in a choak hold and they need them to sell units
    Everyone wants to winning lotto ticket, but they don’t want to play lotto. and that’s killing the game and the art.

    In the last few years, we are starting to see the business side of the industry become predictable, we are starting to see that the people running the show no nothing about the product they sell, they just know it sells, at least it use to. The record companies have a lot of catching up to do.
    the industry has changed. Artists can’t move unit like the use to. Even Headline Artists are not selling like they use to. Look at 50, he struggled to make Platinum.
    and GUnit’s new album bricked. Lil Wayne did the numbers he did because of timing. and the fact that he was flooding the market which made him a “Name Brand” and everyone wants to buy a name brand. Not many artists will have that success including him

    It’s become more independent, people don’t buy records or cd’s they buy iPOD and download music, they buy expensive phones and buy ringtones.
    Big name record stores closed down because people are not buying product. Artists don’t have to chase DJs on 3 radio stations in each market to play their record, now you got internet radio, satellite radio who can broadcast of over the world. Artists and Producers no longer have to go to big name expensive studio to work on a project. they can spend a few thousand bucks on a decent home studio and never have to worry about studio time or budgets. and most importantly we don’t need the record labels to put our music out and dictate our careers. you can sell your record without ever pressing a record or cd, it’s all electronic now. This effects everyone; labels,artists,studios,mastering labs,radio. Bottom line is they won’t be able stop good music and good artists like Joell Ortiz from being heard. Being a Free Agent give you that control. I see this as a good thing for you because they see what you see and don’t give you the respect you deserve but one day they will.

  89. 91 Dante from the Bronx
    August 22, 2008 at 7:53 pm

    Don’t stress it Joell but I feel where you’re comming from. If I was in your shoes I would feel the same way. In my eyes the word “dropped” is the industry’s way of giving you a “F U” on the way out just to raise eyebrows. “Wow! A major label dropped Joell? I wonder if there is something to worry about with him. Maybe he isn’t worth the investment.”

    Its all a game just like Super Mario Bros. You work your ass off (stright spitting) to find out the Princess (your deal) is in another castle.

  90. August 27, 2008 at 1:40 pm

    This is a great post. In reality we always down grade each other when one person is in a position which is another is not. No one will ever understand until they get out of the mindset of “do forself”. An emotion to a word can lead to say something that can turn into a big deal of beef, nonsense and or hate. I’m glad you r down to earth and respect to “analyze” the situation in a formal way. u r bound to go long
    Stay humble…Love & Respect
    -Black Trackz

  91. August 28, 2008 at 12:34 am

    Joell…. just keep doing you my dude. Looking forward to more collabs with Joe Budden. Holla at the kid!

  92. August 29, 2008 at 9:55 am

    The bottom line is that only YOU knew what was best for you. From an outside perspective, I just hope you prosper in ANYTHING you do, whether its hip hop, or who knows, unlike Lamont, I DO think you have business savvy, and perhaps might prosper in another field, and not just hip-hop. Only YOU knew what went on with you and Aftermath.

    As a fan, a big fan, I just hope that you do you, your fam, and that’s it. If you’re as genuinely happy as you say you are, then I’m just as happy my dude.

    All I can tell you Joell, is that I’m out here in Vegas fiending, and I DO mean fiending for you to come out here and do a show. I just saw Whosane open up for Mos, and I’m hoping if you ain’t headlining, that you can at least open up for a dude or something. Siempre Fé.

  93. 95 KreamTeamAce
    September 3, 2008 at 4:31 pm

    Words have meaning to individuals…the way you use words to craft your music is a talent and a skill. Words are your weapons and right now you killin’ them with every 16! Keep it 100 my dude

  94. 96 Old Hip Hop Fan
    October 8, 2008 at 11:06 pm

    Man this post is on point. Nothing but real thought in this post. I’m waitin on Joell Ortiz to drop anything as well as Joe Budden. Major record labels want “POPCORN” music, and thats real talk

  95. 97 b-Roc
    October 18, 2008 at 8:56 pm

    Canada has got mad love for u joell you should do some shows in t. some time or hamilton or london would love to check a show hope everything comes together for you and u get a good deal or go intependent and blow up your pretty much the best in the game right now lyrically and deserve to blow keep it real Joell.
    Peace

  96. November 3, 2008 at 5:54 am

    Whats good JOELL? The crazy shit is that as soon as I heard you were working with Aftermath I pointed it out to my peeps that I knew Dre was going to put you to write for the Detox… because of the style of writing you express in tracks like “night in my p’s”… glad i was right.. look forward to hopefully working with you in the near future. Peace- da Vinci


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