The Dirty Dozen are six emcees from Detroit (Michigan). Their names are: Eminem, Bizarre, Proof, Swift, Kon Artis and Kuniva. Each member has his alter ego, so that makes a dozen. Proof, Eminem’s best friend had the idea of making a rap group in which each member had an alter ego. The members Deshaun Holton (a.k.a Proof a.k.a Dirty Harry); Rufus Johnson (a.k.a Bizarre a.k.a Peter S.Bizarre); O. Moore (a.k.a Swifty Mc Vay); Von Carlisle (a.k.a Hannz G. a.k.a Kuniva); and Slim Shady a.k.a Eminem a.k.a Marshall Mathers are all known separately for their talent. The group was founded by Bizarre and Proof in 1990, but it only became a complete group when Proof brought a white M.C called Eminem into the group, and Swifty. Bugz (who died in 1999) belonged to the D12 group. The first time Proof introduced Eminem to Kon, Artis was very surprised: "Hmm, what’s the f…? White boy at my door!" But within two months they were all rhyming together. Eminem was writing the rhymes and Kon Artis made the beats. Bizarre says that Marshall’s race wasn’t really a novelty on the 7 Mile Eastside. In fact there were many other whites living in the black neighbourhood .The D-12 members never saw Eminem just as a white boy. "That nigga ain’t white", Kon Artis says about his friend." He got white in him, but he ain’t white. "To the D-12 crew the word ‘nigga’ isn’t negative." Eminem showed his loyalty to the group when he went famous: the first to become famous was supposed to come back to the others, and he was the first to go to the top .He says: "Aside from everything, aside from all the bullshit ,I know I've got a good heart, I know where my loyalty is. Pretty much all the guys in the group have told me that they never doubted me (coming back for them) because that was our pact from way back, from when we first started the group 5 years ago."

"The D-12 crew was including the M.C Bugz (whose real name was Karnail Paul Pitts), who was shot on May the 21st in 1999 at Detroit’s Belle Island amusement park (*) .Eminem talks about the circumstances of his death: 'He got shot in the face twice, then run over by a car It was over some stupid shit. He wetted this girl with a water gun and these dudes came over and got their revenge.' (*)www.eminem4ever.de.

Each D12- member has a tattoo on his forearm to remember him. He was respected in the hip hop scene and was familiar with Swift, whom he brought into the group. Swift remembers:" Me and Bugz rapped together, laughed and got drunk together; He’s still with us, tough. Before we go on stage, we pray and he’s right there, over us." "He had a big influence on us. Bugz had a lot of energy and a lot of respect in the hip hop scene. He was cool to everybody." Bizarre says. Bugz was only 21 years old when he died. Before he died, he wanted Swift to be a member of the group and the D-12 members respected his wish and brought Swifty into the group. Bugz was supposed to perform on Friday, May the 28th, for a show in Grand Rapids (Michigan) on an Eminem tour, but he never appeared on the show .On Saturday, the sad news reached the D-12 members. The tragic death of Bugz increased the group’s determination to make an LP.

Even if Eminem produces the D-12 group, each member has his creativity and creates his own lyrics and songs. They first think about a concept, and then they try to make the beat and submit it to each other .If everybody agrees with the beat, they start to find the vocals, which word rhymes with which, other. They trust each other’s criticism.

Rufus Johnson has an interesting musical profile. He’s a member of the Dirty Dozen and of the New Jersey Outsidaz .His seven tracks EP "Attack of theWeirdos" has been successful.

Bizarre music is funny and amazing, and sometimes he makes his fans feel confused about his character. "I’m the type of guy that talks to bums. I don’t avoid to greet them. I ask them for money, before they can ask me." ,Bizarre says .Bizarre also has many affiliations :Outsidaz Young Zee, Pace Won, Rah Digga, Eminem, etc….He has also done concerts with Redman, Alkaholics ,and Wu- Thang Clan Method Man. Bizarre style is unorthodox and ill .Bizarre probably writes craziest rhymes of the group, and he sometimes dyes his hair green or red. He’s really amazing. His rhymes sound crazy and disturbing: "I ain’t got food in my house/My job I been cheated/ My girl had a miscarriage / I had to eat it(."Amityville")

Kon Artis Kon Artis used to be a member of a group called Da Brigade (with Kuniva).

Proof Proof, Eminem’s best friend, took place in a freestyle battle in January 2002 and was first in Source Magazine freestyle competition in New York.

Kuniva Kuniva, who also belonged to the group Da Brigade along with Kon Artis, had an unreleased EP, but unfortunately the label had broken up, before it was released.

Eminem Eminem is the producer of the D-12 crew…Before being famous, he belonged to the D-12 group.

Facts about Kon Artis     

When people talk about D12, they usually talk more about Eminem or the D12 group globally. People rarely talk about the other D12 members individually, although there is a lot to say about a member like Kon Artis, for instance.

Denine Porter aka Mr Denaun Porter aka Kon Artis was born on December the 7th, 1976 in Detroit. He had a passion for basketball and wanted to play in the NBA, but unfortunately, he got shot in the leg and had to stop playing basketball. It is also known that he loves bowling.

Kon Artis grew up at 7 Mile Road.

Some bad mouthed people also say that he used to steal cars before being famous. True or not, you can hardly grow up in a ghetto like 7 Mile Road without being a real gangsta. And the D12 crew is composed of Runyan Avenue soldiers, as we know. Most of the people ignore that Kon Artis has produced most of the Infinite album with Eminem. Besides the D12 group, Kon Artis used to belong to the group Da Brigade with his fellow Kuniva. They both had an unreleased CD that was supposed to be released on Federation Records, but the label broke down before the Cd could be released.

When his group D12 was targetted by the media about violence, Kon Artis reacted this way and justifiedly pointed out their hypocrisy:

'You can't just ridicule us for being real, the media is real. 'Faces of Death,' that's a movie you can buy in a video store. I can't even watch that movie for 10 minutes. I'm not that sick.'

When he’s not recording, Kon Artis spends time producing. He has worked with some other famous artists such as Method Man, as he points it out in an interview given to Chronic Magazine:

“I stayed in the studio. I was working on other people's albums. I [produced] "P.I.M.P." and "Stunt 101" [for G-Unit]. I worked on the 8 Mile Soundtrack. I worked with Method Man, Redman, Bilal, Rah Digga, Snoop Dogg.”

Kon Artis also revealed some interesting infos about the upcoming D12 album in the same interview:

”It's not the same sound of the last album. "Loyalty" is a good song. It [describes] our relationship as D-12 - our loyalty to each other before our loyalty to the label. Sometimes that's more important. People look at us as a group that was just put together, but we really grew up together. We're really a group. "Good Die Young" focuses on early demise. I wonder what Pac and Biggie would be doing right now if they were still alive. "Bitch" is funny. You would expect us to be doggin' a chick, but it's a funny story about men v. women. This album is different from a lot of music that's out right now.”

It is so true that the D12 group is a story of loyalty. True friends who grew up in the same part of Detroit and who will stay friends for life.

Being asked if stardom has had negative effects on him, Kon Artis responded:

“I used to like to go to the hood a lot to free my mind and get it away from being in a place where my friends couldn't live next door. But, I had to learn to [let that go]. They're still my friends. It's hard for me to have relationships. I haven't been able to have a person life. I already have trust issues with women. My personal life is "let me go to the studio with Dre." He's works in the back room and I work in the front room. I work that close to him everyday. I had to move to California. That was tough. I'm so used to Detroit. I can't go certain places that I want to go. Niggas that don't have nothing or anything to lose don't have respect for life. So, a little chain or some diamonds will make them want to take from you. I'm not going to put myself in that predicament, so I go to the club deep. If you're going to go at me, you're going to go at the rest of these niggas – period. It has to be that way. Other than that…”

His point of view on fame is also summarized in “When The Music Stops”:

“I was happy having a deal at first, Thought money would make me happy but It only made my pain worst, It hurts when u see ur friends turn their back on u dawg When u ain't got nothing left but ur word and ur balls N ur stress full of cause Of ur new friends they beggin with their hands out Checking for ur record when its selling When it aint, that's the end, no laughs No friends no girl Just the gin u drink till u car spin u then Screech Damn! Crash U slam into the wall and u fall Out the car, trying to crawl with one arm About to lose it all in a pool of alcohol If my funeral's tomorrow, wonder if they would even call when the music stops...”

If you want to listen to some former songs featuring Kon Artis, you will be able to listen to “Skull Therapy” and “Searchin’” here:

http://d12_israel.tripod.com/links/kon.html

You may find some additional info on Kon Artis’ personal webpage:

http://www.djknice.com/KonArtisArtistPage.htm

As Kon Artis points it out “ Everyone in my group is just dope lyrically”. So dear fellow Eminem and D12 lovers, take time to study each MC of the group. Each of them brings a particular note to the Dirty Dozen group

Why ain't Denaun Porter more popular?

-Why ain’t Denaun Porter more popular?

-Denaun who?

- Kon Artis...

Yes, I mean the Kon Artis from the D12 group.

Somebody asked on a public forum the question I keep asking myself: why isn’t Kon Artis more popular?

Besides being a gifted emcee, he has also produced the hottest songs like 50 Cent’s P.I.M.P., Stunt 101.

D12 World’s Commercial break introduced by Young Zee, was also produced by Kon Artis.

Denaun Porter aka Kon Artis has been Eminem’s former co-producer for his Infinite album.

Besides Eminem, D12’s Kon Artis has worked with the greatest rappers: Xzibit, Snoop Dogg, Method Man and many others.

Denaun Porter likes producing, but he also likes working on beats. He is a perfectionnist in his work as well as his fellow Eminem when it comes to a song writing process:

“...it’s hard for me to write a song for myself. It takes me a long time. It’s a very long process. I’m harder on myself than I am on other people.” (Kon Artis)

Knowing that Denaun Porter is far from being average and that his voice also distinguishes him from the other D12 rappers, why doesn’t Kon Artis receive the admiration and applause that he deserves from his audience?

Of course, people are more focused on Eminem. But it might not be the only explanation for his lack of popularity.

Kon Artis is gifted and hardworking and music is a passion for him. But he doesn’t appear on each TV screen so many times as less gifted but more commercial rappers. Making music is much more important to him than making money , which honors him.

Having met him and his fellows for a short time, I have noticed the D12 members’ simplicity and discretion. Their discretion might be a handicap in their fight for more recognition, though.

As I already did it in former articles, I’m advising people who are interested in Eminem to check out not only Eminem’s work, but also the work of his collaborators which is really worth having a look.

The D12 emcees are creative, original and good representatives of the Detroit gangsta rap.

Facts about Swifty Mc Veigh

Swifty Mc Veigh

“Don’t playahate, play along”

Ondre Moore aka Swift aka Swify Mc Veigh was born on May the 16th 1976 in Detroit. He’s a member of the rap group Da RaBeez and, of course, of the D12 group. Swifty particpated in 2000 to Blaze Battle and he also appeared on the Funk Master Flex and DJ Butter mixtape “Kill the DJ”. Swifty Mc Veigh is often spelt different was, but the right spelling for his nickname is “Mc Veigh”, because the Oklahoma bomber Timothy Mc Veigh, inspired the rapper for his nickname. About the man who inspired his nickname, Swifty says:

"I'm not saying what he did to Oklahoma was all good,but it's just like, seeing him on TV, he was so nonchalant about it. Quiet, straight-faced, up-front, didn't have nothin' to hide. While pop-psych observations should be taken with a grain of salt, there's more than a little resonance here with another close-cropped white guy who stared down a nation of critics and accusers and said, simply, "What."

Who was actually Timothy Mc Veigh? You will learn more about him here:

http://www.rotten.com/library/bio/crime/terrorists/timothy-mcveigh

The huge difference between Swifty Mc Veigh and Timothy Mc Veigh is that Swifty drops his bombs on the mic.If you consider the lyrics of “Shit On You”, for instance, you will notice Swifty’s interest for terrorism, which is, of course, not to take at first degree:

“I remain fatter than gluttony Tapin' bombs on the back of record companies (uh huh) blow 'em up if they ain't wantin' me The national guard- they scared of huntin' me I love beef- I got your hoe duckin' me A drug thief- Bitch I'll take your marijuana These slugs will keep your ass away from my corner I drown niggaz in hundred degree saunas You can act if fool if you wanna- BIATCH It's this lyrical piranha- strapped with a grenade in a pool with yo' mama attack her by the legs and pull her to the bottom Twit lettin' up like a condom Slappin' if you fuckas got a problem When I see 'em- you hoes endin' up in a fuckin' mausoleum or hidden in a trunk of a black and gold BM Pull in a garage while you screamin' keep the motor on and I'm leavin' I'LL SHIT ON YOU...”

Deceased D12 member Bugz wanted Swifty to be part of the D12 group. You will certainly enjoy Swifty’s rhyming skills in songs like “Instigator” from the Devil’s Night album which gives us a good example of Swifty’s scary psycho style:

“I don't give a fuck if we beefing or not I squeeze first I'ma heat up your spot I'm a nigga that breathe dirt On these streets everyday Snatching nigga's lle' How you bitches needing work? You can get it from McVeigh I'm despiteful I tie a hoe A maniacal vile animal Liable to leave you strapped with your Bible I'm psycho My bullets won't fly by you You wanna kill me? You got the right to Ain't gotta wait till night to snipe you If I don't like you You getting hit in broad day light with a white rifle In front of your window I'm looking right through I love when I see a nigga get stuck...”

Bizarre, an amazing MC     

Rufus Johnson aka Bizarre aka Peter S. Bizarre was born on July the 5 th 1976. There is a story behind Bizarre’s nickname. He was called “Bizarre Kid” by a teacher because he used to talk to himself and to rap in the class:

“I was like 10 or so, in the 5th grade...I used to talk to myself and say raps to myself in the classroom and one day my teacher said I was a Bizarre Kid. I was just stuck.”

Bizarre’s character is as ill as his rhymes:

“I’m the type of guy that talks to bums, I don’t avoid to greet them. I ask them for money, before they can can ask me.”

In 1998, Bizarre released his “Attack Of The Weirdos”. To Bizarre, “weird” means out of norm, original:

”I don’t mean in the literal sense, I’m tired of the same ol’ bullshit:jiggy this, player that...”weird in the sense that is out of norm, and people are afraid of stuff that’s different.”

KRS-One has been a huge source of inspiration for Bizarre who “loved how arrogant he was.”

About his own musical style, Bizarre says:

“My style is unorthodox and ill- been that way till day one. I always wanted to be different. When I was young, I was battling niggas twice my age.”

Bizarre has collaborated with many artists such as Outsidaz young Zee, Pace Won, Rah Digga. He’s also done concerts with Redman, Alkaholiks and Method Man.

Bizarres rhymes distinguish him among his fellows in the D12 group: they are sick and funny at the same time. His talent and his originality could hardly be denied.

His collaboration with Eminem has brought him into fame. Before they were famous, Proof, Kon Artis Kuniva and Eminem used to hang out and to participate to the rap competion at the Hip Hop shop at 7 Mile Road. Before being famous, the five emcees already had some recognition on the local scene.

Bizarre describes his complementary collaboration with Eminem that way:

“I would pick a lot of sick shit to my partner, Eminem, and we’d build off each other.”

Bizarre and Eminem combined: a beautiful example is shown through the “Amityville song”:

[Chorus: (Eminem)] Mentally illll from Amityvilllle (ILLLL) Accidentally killll your family stillll Thinkin he won't? God-damnit he willll (HE'SSSS) Mentally illll from Amityvilllle {HE'SSSS} - [on repeats only]

I get lifted and spin til I'm half-twisted Feet planted and stand with a grin full of chapped lipstick [SMACK] Pen full of ink, think sinful and rap sick shit Shrink pencil me in for my last visit Drink gin til my chin's full of splashed whiskers [whoosh] Hash whiskey and ash til I slap bitches [smack] Ask Bizzy, he's been here the past six years Mash with me you'll get in imagine this

[Chorus 2X]

[Bizarre] I fucked my cousin in his asshole, slit my mother's throat {AHHHHHHHH!} Guess who Slim Shady just signed to Interscope? My little sister's birthday, she'll remember me For a gift I had ten of my boys take her virginity {Mmm mm mmm!} And bitches know me as a horny ass freak Their mother wasn't raped, I ate her pussy while she was 'sleep Pissy-drunk, throwin up in the urinal (YOU FUCKIN HOMO!) That's what I said at my dad's funeral

As the song goes on, the lyrics are getting sicker and sicker. The scary atmosphere that is introduced by Slim Shady (the character) a well known psychopath killer and sexual maniac is darkened by Bizarre’s huge amount of disgusting details about rape and crime. Both MC’s talent combined makes us enjoy the scary tale of “Amityville”.

It is less known that Bizarre collects shower caps and tire irons. He also has a passion for pets and loves to kiss them.

Rufus Johnson is a real nice person. I will never forget my short encounter with him at Paris Bercy.

Facts about MC Big Proof   

“If I was you, suicide would be a way of life. If you was me , you’d kill you.” (Proof)

Before I start talking about D12’s gifted Mc Proof, I would like to thank and to give credit to the webmaster of the following Derty Harry website for the rare info I found about Deshaun Holton aka Derty Harry aka Proof:

http://angelfire.com/bxc3/dertyharry/main_bio.html

Deshaun Holton aka Proof was born on October the 2nd 1975 in Detroit. Although they didn’t attend the same High School, Eminem and Proof have been friends since 1988. They used to live in the same street in Detroit. Proof used to go to Osbourne High school while Eminem was attending Lincoln High. Both friends used to skip high school in order to rap together: in fact Eminem skipped Lincoln High and used to come to Proof’s school very often, because both friends wanted to rap together. This is how they met:

“I was skipping school, and he was skipping school also, passing out flyers for his concert he was having in Centerline. That had to be, like, '88 or something.” (Proof)

Some (white) underground Mcs from Detroit like Backstab the Kingpin are convinced of Proof’s racism. But Deshaun’s statements seem to prove the contrary.

CDNow has asked Proof how he felt about Eminem’s skin color at the time they met:

CDNow: Did you wonder what this blond, white kid was up to?

Proof: “You know, I went to Catholic school and had a great, great friend of mine who happened to be Irish; we were best friends since the sixth grade. So when I saw [Eminem] was white, I didn't even jump off like that; when he rapped, he was dope. What made us get dope and become great friends was we both rhymed "first place" and "birthday," and we've been tight ever since [laughs].”

Eminem and Proof have been real friends since the beginning. When Eminem was kicked out of his home, he would sleep at Proof’s house. It is well known that Proof is an amazing freestyler.He won the freestyling competition in the Source magazine in 1999. He his a better freestyler than Marshall, but Marshall’s force is in the way he handles his words in his lyrics. That’s exactly what Proof states about their complementary talent:

“We were both impressed with each other. The advantage I've got over Em is freestyling; I'm the kind of guy who freestyles off the head, right? The advantage he had over me was that he knew how to write intricately; he knew how to put a song together and bring feelings about. That's why I journeyed under him, like, "Yo, show me the ropes, homeboy."

The idea of the D12 group composed of talented MCs and sick aliases with popped into Proof’s mind:

"I was in New York; I had this deal with Tommy Boy that didn't work out, unfortunately. But I just had this idea that we could put together a team of dope MCs, put a lot of Detroit on as far as having MCs with skills. Everybody's solo took so we'll make aliases, like Eminem's Slim Shady and I'm Derty Harry, and call it the Dirty Dozen -- and at this time, to be honest with you, we thought The Dirty Dozen was a Western movie; we didn't know it was an army movie [laughs]. That fits us, army rather than Western, 'cause we see ourselves more as gun-slingers, lyric-slingers. Then the idea was to form a pact whereas this team, whoever gets out first comes back and gets the rest of the group."

Proof has always been confident in Eminem’s loyalty, even if some other members of the group may have been worried:

“Not me; I've been there since day one, almost. I think the rest of the group may not have been there, but Proof has been beside Eminem all this time. I play a leadership role in the group, where I talk to everyone else; Em is like the president, and I'm the general. I talk to the rest of the fellas and put 'em in line and show 'em the direction. It's a family, too, so there'll be a lot of fighting and bickering, and some people might have felt it might not be the way it should be. So, yes, there were times when people felt funny about things. But now everybody thinks back to that, and we were tripping out over nothing.”

Acccording to Proof, Eminem’s success was the best thing that could have happened to D12:

“Right. Some people look at us like, "You're gonna be Eminem's group. You're gonna be in his shadow." They don't realize how positive and great that is to hear; if you're in the shadow of a guy who can sell almost 10 million records in just the states alone, great. That's not a dis to us. But when they hear the album, they hear the individuality of each person, how everybody holds their own.”

It is so true that each D12 emcee has his own talent and ability to rap.

It is less known that Proof’s first stage name was “Maximum”. Proof has always been appreciated in Detroit for his raps and his freestyling qualities. He changed his nickname when people started calling him “Living Proof”, because in many people’s minds, Proof was the “living proof of the living MCs in Detroit".

Proof has collaborated and still collaborates with numerous artists such as Dogmatic. Proof’s first released Cd was called “From Death” and was co-produced with Da Goon Squad.

He has released a CD called “Promatic” with Dogmatic and a six Track solo EP called “The Search For Jerry Garcia”. As well as for Eminem, Detroit has been very influencial to Proof who describes his hometown as “the type of place where eye contact can get you killed” and also as “ a city where the sun never shines, full of pot holes, snow and con artists ready to jack everything you got”.

Facts about Kuniva    

D12 member Kuniva has many aliases. He is also known as Hannz G aka Rondell Beene. His real name is Van Carlisle. He was born in Detroit on December the 10th 1976. He and Kon Artis belong to the group Da Brigade. He is the only D12 member who has no kid.

It is known that Kuniva battled Eminem in a freestyle battle to prove his credibility. He won the 2000 Underground Young Gun Award for “Funky Fresh In The Flesh”.

D12 member Kuniva doesn’t like to talk to much, but rather to observe people’s conversations:

'It's best to remain silent and be thought of as stupid, then to open your mouth and remove all doubt.' (Kuniva)

Like his other D12 fellows, Van Carlisle is attached to Detroit:

“I'm proud of where I'm from. Detroit has been overlooked for so many years as far as hip-hop and there's a lot of talent here. Just like Eminem came back and got us, we want to do the same thing with other artists. It's about being somebody and doing something with yourself."

Besides their hard work, one of the D12 crew’s main goals is the promotion of their hometown and to make people discover some other local talents made in Rock City. Kuniva, who states that the D12 crew is "here to bring the sick, the obscene, the disgusting", has contributed to the success of the best rap group of all times: D12.

In memory of D12's deceased member Bugz   

Karnail Pitts aka Robert Beck aka Bugz was born in 1978 around May. He was loved and appreciated by all the D12 members for his rapping skills. His life ended tragically on May the 21st in 1999: he was only 21 when he died.

The circumstances of his death will make us realize the fragility of human life. Bugz died for nearly nothing:

“The day of the show, Bugz, a friend, and his friend's cousin werespending the afternoon at Detroit's Belle Isle Park. An altercation arose when a man sprayed Bugz' friend's cousin with a high-powered water gun and she took offense. A heated argument ensued which escalated into a fistfight, and Bugz intervened on his friend's behalf. At this point, a friend of the man with the water gun went into a Ford Expedition, drew a rifle, and fired at Bugz, who was looking away at the time. He was hit three times at close range, once in the neck, and once in the chest. The men then ran Bugz over in the Expedition. An ambulance was called, but due to traffic on the bridge to Belle Isle, it took them thirty minutes to get onto the island. Bugz was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he could not be saved. He had just turned 21. Bugz untimely passing has only strengthened the resolve of Dirty Dozen members. "It just makes you look at life more serious," Proof says. ""At this point, we're trying to gather everything he recorded [to] make an LP." The Dirty Dozen, who'd been working on releasing their debut EP, are now looking to release Bugz' material in tribute. On Thursday, June 24, the Federation Records family is holding a Bugz benefit at The Wired Frog in Eastpointe, Mich. featuring fellow Dirty Dozen member Bizarre, as well as Paradime, The Brigade, SUN, and Da Ruckus. The cost is seven dollars, with all proceeds going to the Pitts family. Bugz will also be featured on The Brigade's upcoming 4-song 12" due out on Federation Records next month. – Werner” (Source: Rolling Stone Magazine)

The D12 group was founded by Proof in 1995. It is known that the first three members were Proof, Eminem and Kon Artis who were joined later by an MC named Eye Kyu. Then Bizarre joined the goup. The sixth member was Bugz. When Eminem was discovered by Dr Dre, he started his solo career with the release of the Slim Shady LP. Eminem was also trying to get D12 a record deal. He was supposed to lead the goup and to make few appearences. Then Swifty Mc Veigh joined the group. He featured Eminem’s song “No One’s Iller”.

When Bugz was tragically killed, Eminem placed himself in the group. Bugz’ wish was to have Swifty Mc Veigh as a member of the group.

Track 19 and 20 “Bugz 97” (Skit) and “Good Die Young” from the new D12 World album are dedicated to Bugz.

Before each show, the D12 crew prays for Bugz.

For his crew and for true D12 lovers, Bugz will live forever.

Do you know each of those 6 American Psychos?

Touring without him

The 5 other D12 members are currently touring without Slim Shady, who is busy working on his next album. Despite the fact Eminem promised to make a few guest appearences during the D12 tour, many Eminem fans are disappointed not to see "the lead singer of the band" (just kidding).

But the crowd of disappointed fellow fans should also consider that this D12 tour without Eminem may be a real chance for the Proof, Kuniva, Kon Artis, Bizarre and Swifty to enlighten their individual talents and skills on stage. Those of us who have seen Eminem on stage know that any other gifted rapper would probably be in his shadow as well as his D12 fellows. It is not only that Eminem has a huge talent and lyrical skills: Marshall has charisma, he brings some magic into the show. The way Marshall Mathers manages to captivate his audience is extraordinary, he creates so much complicity with his public. You gotta live it to understand that what I am saying is really true.

Because Eminem is such an extraordinary performer and such a skilled rapper, many commentators have dared saying that the other D12 members are whack rappers. Which is untrue. Those commentators who have tried, most of the time, to base their comments on D12's second album "D12 World". I particularly disagree with one comment I read recently. In the "Chicago Maroon" from May 2004, Joe Hanson states:

" Eminem is wrong to sing, "These chicks don't even know the name of my band." Guy or girl, everybody knows the name of Eminem's band. It's just that nobody cares. Many talented rappers have scooped up their old crews after finding success, and the result is always the same: a mediocre album with too little of the star and too much of the other guys. D12 could have easily avoided this problem with D12 World, but instead, they embrace it." Joe Hanson, Chicago Maroon May 15th 2004

First, he is wrong about everybody knowing the D12 members' name. I could give him so many examples of people, guys or girls, who claim to be Eminem fans and who don't know the D12 individually, except for the "lead singer".

Second, I also disagree when he claims that the D12 member's performances besides Marshall's are weak. There are so many examples of good D12 members' performances in "D12 World". If you take a look a the videos, you will notice, Kon Artis' excellent part in the "How Come" video. The way he acts and the way he raps in this video are far from being weak. Have you watched Proof and Bizarre in the "40 oz" video? Both are simply great. "Good Die Young",which is a deeply moving song about Bugz, reveals the other members' talent.

To Joe Hanson and to all the other people who keep saying that the 5 other D12 members are weak, I would like to ask following questions:

-have you really taken time to have a look at D12's individual work, besides their two albums?

-have you taken enough time to study their lyrics, not only Eminem's?

As I have pointed it out in former articles, it is really worth discovering D12's solo and underground work.

"The Attack Of The Weirdos" is an example of Bizarre's talent. Bizarre's album is available on this website. Check it out:

http://www.the-s.com/bizarre.htm

If you have a deeper look at Bizarre's biography, you will notice the many artists he has collaborated with.

To fully appreciate Proof, you need to have a deeper look at his solo and underground work. You will find some of his solo tracks on his official website:

www.bigproof.com

Songs like "Yzarc" (which I happen to love very much) are good examples of Proof's solo work. Proof's voice is uncommon, it has something raw inside. Proof also knows how to handle words and you will probably enjoy his freestyling qualities.

Before spreading some subjective opinion about the 5 other D12 members, take some time to have a deeper look at their individual talents. Check out "D12's online mixtape" (where you will also enjoy Kuniva and Swifty's freestyling abilities), Big Proof's online mixtape:

http://www.d12world.com/index.php?s=audio

Don't forget to check out D12's former underground songs. Then you might be entitled to express a more objective opinion about D12's hardworking and gifted rappers.

MORE RARE INFO ABOUT D12 MEMBERS'S FAMILY

Many Eminem fans probably know that Marshall’s parents used to belong to a band called “Daddy Warbucks”. But did they even guess that Proof’s father produced the great singer Marvin Gaye? In fact Deshaun Holton’s father has collaborated with many artists:

“My dad’s a crack head. My father had a group called The Politicians and he produced The Jones Girls.He produced Marvin Gaye,he produced Tower of Power,he did some shit with Rare Earth or Ohio Players. He did a lot of work back in the day.He did Holland and Dozier stuff. My father was doing it.”

Denaun Porter’s father used to belong to a famous gospel group called "The Five Blind Boys Of Alabama". He stopped his musical career when Kon Artis’ mom was pregnant:

“When I was in my mama’s stomach, my dad stopped his career to come and raise me. And but for him doing that, I wouldn’t be there. So I’m taking the torch from my dad because he didn’t get to spread the wings the way he wanted to, but he can spread his wings through me.”

Kon Artis is very proud of his father:

“My dad has always been a superstar to me.”

When Kon Artis uses the name “Mr Porter” in some songs, there is always a clear reference to his beloved father.

Three of our well known D12 members had parents who were involved with music and music production.

Five of them are family fathers. We all know about Marshall’s little Hailie Jade. Swifty has three kids and Kuniva had his second daughter, Tamia, in April 2004.

Proof is the proud dad of two kids. Bizarre, who is the only D12 member who doesn’t currenly live in Detroit but in Atlanta, has two kids. Bizarre claims that his own childhood was good, but his teenage years seem to have been living hell. Why? Because his mom decided to become a Jehovah’s Witness:

“I had a nice upbringing, but from the age of fourteen to eighteen, my mom decided to be a Jehovah’s Witness. So I had no rated R movies, kinda like Ja Rule, but not faking it. No sex, no girlfriends, but after the fact that I was already doing this and then had to stop because my mother wanted to do.” The only D12 member who doesn’t have any kids for the moment is Kon Artis.

DERTY HARRY IS A DOPE EMCEE

I came home today with Proof’s brand new tape “I miss the hip hop shop”. When I bought the album, I had already listened to some songs like “Yzarc” and “Derty Harry”.

If you’re fond of Detroit sounds, no doubt you gonna like this album. It is musically very rich and includes many collaborations with artists from the local Detroit scene like Proof’s friend rapper Mu, Jay Dee and many other.

The album is offensive and sends warnings to Eminem and Proof’s long time enemy rapper Esham, and also to all the people who don’t like Proof.

Proof’s skills, his so particular voice, his great sense of rhythm and the use of the intruments will reveal MC Big Proof’s incredible talent.

Proof will make you travel through the dangerous 313. Big Proof will bring you into his gangsta world and you will fully enjoy this journey through real good underground rap.

You will certainly enjoy the sarcastical “Runnin’ Yo Mouth”.

You will recognize his offensiveness. From all his D12 fellows, Proof is well known for liking beef. He is ready to knock you out lyrically in no time. Derty Harry is not afraid of anybody and he will make you feel that he “doesn’t care about your name” in his song Yzarc which also targets “The Source” magazine, the American government (Hillary Clinton and President Bush are mentioned. You will appreciate the craziness of the Yzarc song: Proof is ready to smack any enemy and the lyrics are violent on purpose.

“Know Ya Name” is all about hoes. It is a well written track. “Play With Myself” may offend a lot of ladies, because Proof seems to enjoy more “playing with himself” than being with a lady. “You Know How”that is by the way produced by Kon Artis will bring you back to the “Stunt 101” sound.

You will like Proof’s rhymes, his realness during the whole album. Proof is not afraid of his enemies. You will enjoy his thug style.

“Ja In a Bra” will make you laugh. Proof makes fun of makes Ja Rule look like a real wanksta. Proof will make you feel how fake Ja Rule is.

His crew from D12 and Obie are ready to back him.

“This CD isn’t about sales, it’s more about my personal relation with hip hop”, says Proof.

Proof misses the time of the hip hop battles that took place and he makes you feel his nostalgy during the whole album. “I Miss The Hip Hop Shop” is a well written album that enlightens Proofs huge talent. I’d recommend it to anybody who wants to discover more about Derty Harry individually as a D12 member.

Promatic album review

Let the dynamic Detroit duo Proof and Dogmatic introduce you into their crazy world. Journey through the streets of Detroit: mushrooms, hoes, lesbians and alcohol are part of your dangerous virtual trip to the 313.

Promatic is the example of a successful collaboration between two gifted emcees. Dogmatic, who is still underground, gives a particular dimension to the album.

« Take No Shorts » shows the offensiveness of a crew of rappers who won’t compromise their style for anybody.

The song « Ecstasy » is an ode to the well known illegal substance. Dogmatic and Proof describe their addictiveness in funny terms and bring Bizarre’s talent into the scene.

The Promatic album will give you an authentic taste of 313 underground real hip hop. The hilarious and rebellious « What I Do » will make you enjoy Proof’s world.

Proof and Dogmatic’s work is definitely something different:

« Even though the album is hard and it's got some definite street content, we didn't want to just come out like that. We just wanted to show the people something different first. » (Dogmatic)

Promatic’s main goal is also to make people discover more about Detroit:

"The world has never really got a taste of what Detroit is really about. They looked at the East Coast and then the West and then the South, but we're in the middle. We got influences from all of that shit When we do our music, that's just what it comes up as. There's so many different aspects of music that we listen to in Detroit.

As Dogmatic also points it out, Promatic is representative of Detroit City in its whole craziness and battling world:

"Everybody wants to know what Detroit really sounds like. Promatic, this is it. It's niggas spitting, all the craziness. This is what Detroit is. It's what conformed out of all that."

Promatic is also a clever collaboration of the Detroit underground scene. The song « Life » features rap phenomenon King Gordy. « Take No Shorts » will allow you to discover less known talents such as Bakarac and Jus Bounce.

Promatic is musically rich of different styles. « Feels Good » distinguishes itself from the other songs and has even a little bit of the « Barry White style ».

A dope album for mushroom graduates: grab the songs one by one and check it out.

"What I Do", a Proof-Dogmatic collaboration

Although Mc Big Proof is Eminem's best friend, he really needed to take some distance with Shady Records and release his own work with different record labels. Thats' why Promatic is a Koch Records production from the Contra Music Label and "I Miss the Hip Hop Shop" was released at Iron First Records.

The Proof-Dogmatic song and video is an amusing comedy that won't leave you indifferent. As well as while watching or listening to Eminem, the video will require from you a solid sense of humor. Some parents might be shocked by Proof and Dogmatic’s numerous references to drugs, and particularly while Proof is sniffing some glue. Before getting mad at Proof and Dogmatic who -by the way- have manage to pervert a whole class and make drug addicts of them, take the video for what it is: a hilarious comedy.

The two friends who seem to be to old to be high school pupils show up in the middle of a classroom. The song is rebellious against parents and that’s exactly what makes it so funny. Listen to Kevin (Dogmatic):

« Oh, that's just my dad, when I talk shit he gets mad (arrgh) I took his .44 mag, I put that mag in my bag Took it to school, so I can blast all you faggots (arcade shot) I think my teacher's on rag, cause when I'm in class All that bitch do is just nag Kevin do that, Kevin do this I do what I wanna do, slut suck my dick! I can school skip I can put weed to my lips I can pop E and take trips I can flip scripts Smack all the girls on they hips Dress like a blood and yell, CRIP! Steal daddy's Remy and take sips Drink on the back of the porch and break shit Break all the windows in dad's car and dip Fuck stealing keys, ignitions get ripped … »

While Kevin talks against his father, Deshaun will bag on his mom:

"What am I grounded for? Tell me one good reason Moms is a dirty whore Twice she been caught cheatin' Why should I go to school? You never went to school Beating me with a broom Just coz I bent the rules I hate mom and dad, making me so sad (Tshawn, clean up your room now!) No fag No batch, so sad thinkin I'll mind you Wanna kill you and hide you Where nobody can find you Time to curse you, for giving me curfew Every time that you beat me 'Till my body purple No, I won't listen mom Why don't you shut your mouth? School I've been missing out Kids trying to punk me out What I learn manners for? Maybe you raised me wrong All kids that graze me wrong Get crazy play this song Then can I have some friends Make me come in to play Dad always touch my skin Now I'ma run away …

The dialogue between Dogmatic and Proof is a never ending circle: none of them will listen to each other… If you haven’t bought the Promatic album yet, you will be able to watch the video here:

http://www.promaticworld.com/plot/video.shtml

Proof and Dogmatic clearly show their likes and dislikes. You guessed it: both are fond of weed and mushrooms. And if you don’t like it, both emcees will tell you to fuckoff.

Parents, relax a little bit if your kid is fond of the Promatic video: this won’t make a bad substance user of your kid. My 9 years old son is crazy over the « What I Do » video. He even understood that the use of glue was to make Proof « get high ». He also understood that this example is, of course, not to follow. Trust your kids. They are cleverer than you think.

The « What I Do » video is incredibly good and original work based on an excellent duo collaboration. Dogmatic and his fellow Proof have introduced you in a true Detroit underground sound. Enjoy your stay while watching their great video.

D12 UNDERGROUND EP REVIEW

The D12 underground EP was released in 1997. The 10 track CD is Bugz' first appearence on a CD.It will make you appreciate D12's deceased member's huge talent. True D12 and hip hop lovers will appreciate the particular Detroit ghetto taste of D12's underground EP.

The tape is also interesting for enlightening the D12's individual talent. The sound of a bass is the background will give you a precise idea of the dark athmosphere of the Detroit streets. The first track, "6 Reasons", is an invitation not to mess with the Runyan Ave soldiers you already know. It also introduces you in their sick world of weapons, drugs and alcohol. The song is fullfilled with humor and you will probably enjoy sentences like these:

"I make hardcore groups like Wu Tang Look like the Village People (fags)"

Don't be amazed: Eminem is not named in the EP as a full part member, he only features some songs. In fact, Eminem became the sixth member of D12 at Bugz' death. The group was facing a terrible loss (also artistically) and needed a creative new member. That's how Slim Shady became an official D12 member. The second song, Art Of War, is offensive and sarcastic as well. The D12 members want to show up with a brand bew and original rapping style, as it is summarized by the following sentence:

"Tired of niggas rapping the same Talking the same, ya, hah Living in the same place What style is Proof gonna do this time?"

The D12 street soldiers will kill you verbally: the war on the mic has just begun. For those who ever doubted the D12 members individual talents, go listen to their underground EP. It will convice you of their genuine value as great gangsta rappers. An aggressive Kon Artis will totally scare you in "Derelict Theme". Don't worry, it's only for the show:

"I damage your neck With the butt of the tech Vandalous sex Cuttin' you ear to ear With the razor of my Gillette You couldn't get respect If you was a captain or a cadet Granddaddy, daddy, or uncle who's a Vietnam vet I'll battle you 50 deep Solo artist shocker dead beat Derelicts on the loose Wylin' like thugs outta prison with slugs While y'all start screaming..."

"Chance To Advance" is a collaboration with Eye Kyu that also features Eminem. The best part of the song is certainly Bizarre's part. You will recognize the ill rhymer you already know:

"By any means necessary I'm on a killing spree It's the devil in me, intoxicated with brown Hennessy Beware life ain't fair and I don't care Cher braids my hair while her kids are in day-care Two blunts and I'm out for lunch Your whore said I'm here "Sugar pie, honey bunch" This Bizarre kid, that ain't the answer You're more uncomfortable than an anorexic cat with fucking cancer..."

If you're fond of the typical Dirty Dozen sound and sense of humor, you probably gonna enjoy "Activity as Phuctivity". It goes with the motto "Fuck everybody". "Filthy" will make you appreciate a younger Eminem with incisive skills. "Cock and Squeeze" will also make you enjoy Bugz who introduces the song:

"Gimme some hash and when i trip nigga gimme ya mask then after that lend me your mack and gimme your cash that precious thing you call a life ill put an end to fast get in your ass if you want have to leave and eagle mack (??) you want a see-through class dont take much to read you class bitch you broke as fuck and on the bus cuz your Regal smashed this shit is lethal _ battle me i keep you mad put you in a sleeper ,drag your ass to the reaper's pad either _ or feel the wrath of my heater that lyric punches makin meters blast on your speaker rack crib, club or anywhere where theres people at they love my tape they couldnt care where they leaves yours at your girl's a rat tell that ho im not gonna beep her back dont need her black got too many other needer-rats who heater fat (??) i bet your gal aint fuckin with my gat im holdin lyrics sendin vocals at you locals cat gone black your more whack than a gold sack you shown dat when you flowed that's a known fact clone rap suck a MC broad need to pick another field, go out and find you a job or either go out and rob because rappin' aint to function you out of place, like a 2 of heart and 2 of diamond in a game of spades while my innovative ways set your lyrics to a blaze put a grimace on ur grave im in the Guiness on a page of history puttin sucka niggaz out they misery its not a mystery my victories are bodacious it wouldn't matter if the judge is racist and i was battling your aces in your bitches bassment im un-fuckwitible thats literal face it, the general with senses of a senitle holdin on my genitals right before i send tha fo's (fools) down the earth like minerals even after centerfolds in videos, my ego goes in cagnito hoes from mosquito rolls mean and biter i hope you niggaz catch a case of arthrita you aint no writer it still dont even have a spider Idea when you need me , we gonna worst turn into fighters yea yea bitch ya muthaphukkin biter

Cock And, Squeeze, Bust Dirty Dozen dont fuck wit us

Detroit niggaz roll deep hold heat and talk slick yea yea bitch stay off my dick..."

Bugz' style is original and mixed up with ill wordplays. He was gifted and well weaponed as a battle MC. The D12 underground EP will give you a better idea of the D12 crew's beginning work which is genuine gangsta and definitly good quality work.You will be able to listen to it on the following website:

http://www.stimulate-ltd.com/

D12:ART OF WAR

D12’s « Art Of War » from the D12 underground EP will introduce you into the atmosphere of rap battles. The D12 soldiers will teach you the « art of war » and show you how to handle words. The D12 crew is determined to show you some original work and much more different from what you may usually hear in the world of rap. Proof has something different to offer to hip hop lovers:

« Tired of niggas rapping the same Talking the same, ya, hah Living in the same place What style is Proof gonna do this time? »

Ready to spit his full venom, Mc Big Proof will rip his enemies off:

« By the age of aquarius My mind state was gugarious Various opponents whose stature was hilarious Like you… »

Proof doesn’t fight all alone. His fellows are ready to murder you lyrically. He is followed by Bizarre and Kuniva who will scare you, because they will act dangerously. Kuniva’s rhymes will leave you speechless:

« No matter what the problem Revolvers can solve 'em Keep a nigga breathless The tech whips regardless Heartless Walking you punks right to the edge of darkness… »

Kon Artis is the next menace you should take into account:

<i>« Highly dangerous Spraining my wrist Lickin' off this black tech With my eyes flossed bitch Look up the Art of War In the ghetto dictionary… »</i>«

The Art Of War » also gives you the opportunity to fully appreciate Bugz’ talent. He’s ready to murder his opponents. Of course, lyrically:

« Bugz'll murder you In less than a word or two Bring the art of war to your door… »Bugz concludes the well written D12 song.

There is no Slim Shady featured in the song. Only Proof’s allusion reminds us of the now full part D12 member:

" Next to Slim I'm Shady as a Tetris win…"

« The Art Of War » enlightens D12’s lyrical offensiveness. It is a real pleasure for the ears of gangsta rap lovers.

Fellow D12 fans, Kuniva has a fanpage!Check it out:

http://www.kuniva.cjb.net/

Kuniva and Kon Artis, a great story of friendship

A great complicity binds Kuniva and Kon Artis. When you happen to see Kuniva, he is always with his long term friend Kon Artis. I wasn’t really surprised at Paris Bercy to see Kuniva and his friend Kon Artis come out of the tour bus together. It is obvious that both emcees really like and respect each other.

Kuniva defines his friendship with his fellow Kon Artis this way:

<i>“We have a long history with each other and we’re just survivors, man. We come from one of the worst cities in the world and we’re all still here. If we can do it, anybody can do it. So hopefully we let people know there’s hope in whatever they’re doing.” </i>

Both D12 members used to live across 7 Mile Road. They have been through a lot and, as Kuniva points it out, they are here to set an example for the youth: they managed to overcome their harsh struggles and despite the dangerous place they come from, they are still alive.

From Kon Artis’ mouth, Kuniva is even defined as his « half »:

<i>“He’s like my other half. If I don’t think it, he says it. And if he don’t say it, I think it. That’s with everything. Even our sense of humor – sometimes we’ll be laughing at (stuff) and people don’t know what the (hell) we’re laughing about. But me and him will be laughing hard as hell. That’s my brother. He’s my best friend and he’ll understand you without talking to you.” </i>

Kon Artis’ words picture the wonderful friendship that unites both D12 members.

A friendship that will last for life.

Backstage people don't want brain. Guess what they want...

This story happened to me on Friday September the 17th at the D12 show.

Before writing my D12 concert review, I gotta let a lot of rage out of my chest.

Before leaving for the show that had taken place on Friday the 17th of September, I had taken a sample of my (yet unpublished) Eminem biography and a floppy disk containing nearly all of my articles about D12’s solo and underground work. I was determined to make another attempt to approach the D12 crew again in order to get my manuscript behanded to Eminem and also to show them my articles about their individual work. I was even convinced that it would be easier to approach them, knowing that Eminem wasn’t touring with them.

It is a well known fact that girls thinking with their pussies instead of their brains are advantaged to go backstage. So I wasn’t really surprised to see some slutty behaviors in front of my eyes-to my greatest disgust. I have seen girls who were not even fans and who did not even speak English go backstage thanks to their nasty attitude.

Can you imagine that I managed to get a backstage pass and that I haven’t been able to meet the D12 yesterday evening? I can’t face going that far and not being able to meet them. After hours of struggle before and after the show, trying to explain that I was a freelance music journalist and an Eminem biographer who had written some precise articles about D12’s solo work, I was waiting with some other people at the end of the show, trying to get backstage. It suddenly looked like a miracle was going to happen for me: a nice girl who had been waiting with me since the morning in front of the concert hall with me called me and gave me the so much wanted backstage pass a security guard had given to her. She hugged me and told me: « good luck ». I was really happy about that.

Me and a few other people were eager to go behind the scenes. Of course the sluttiest underage girls went first (you guessed it right). When we eventually wanted to go backstage, some people started to push us from all sides for some autographs from Kon Artis and Proof. Then the security guard forced them all to go outside of the concert hall... The very few people who remained (among them me), were refused the entry, despite the fact we had some valid passes and identity cards. I made a last attempt to talk to D12’s manager who sarcastically told me : « There is nothing I can do for you. » Sarcastic words that sounded like a big joke to me. Such people keep talking about promoting D12’s solo work and here is someone in front of them who keeps working on such D12 promotion and they are not interested? I won’t hide it: I have been disappointed by such an hypocritical attitude.

The cause I am fighting for is similar to the D12 crew’s fight: more recognition for some daily hard work.

I may have lost this battle; but I am determined to win the war. I am a determined person who never gives up: someday, I will manage to let Eminem know about the existence of my manuscript (some people from the French music label made me believe it had been behanded to Paul Rosenberg, but I know now that I have been lied to) and get this book published as a personal tribute to Marshall Mathers and for the greatest pleasure of my fellow fans. I will also share my specific articles with the D12 crew. Every moment is another chance and I will take it at the right moment.

D12 concert review: September the 17th, Paris, Elysée Montmartre

After waiting for hours in the crowd under a very hot and burning sun, it is a real pleasure when you manage to be placed in the first row, just in front of the stage.

The first part of the show was a real surprise for most of us. It had been rumored that Slum Village would be touring with D12. Some last minute changes must have taken place for the first part of the show. French hip hop star Slay from Saian Supa Crew and his DJ introduced and animated the show with some pure sound exploits. A heavy sound demonstration welcomed the public. But after a while many people in the crowd were very eager to see D12 act on stage and very soon Slay had no other choice than giving us a vocal interpretation of « Shit On You ». I liked his sense of humor, because he perfectly understood the crowd’s eagerness to see D12 show up on stage.

The atmosphere started to get really hot when the D12 crew entered. The 5 members (yes I know the « lead singer » was missing) got a warm ovation from a very enthusiastic public The first to enter were Kuniva and Kon Artis, followed by the well known lyrical bomber Swifty. The first songs to be played were « Shit Can Happen » and « Pistol Pistol ». We had the great chance to see D12 perform some classics from « Devil’s Night » like Purple Pills, Fight Music and Pimp Like Me and even the well known « Under The Influence » from the Marshall Mathers LP. I happened to cross Swifty’s glance several times during the show while singing along. The CD replaced Eminem’s voice where he was supposed to sing. The purpose of the show was to fully appreciate the D12 emcees for their talent and their great sense of humor. Bizarre had a funny and colorful disguise. The more touching discourse was Proof addressing to us fans and I would really like to give credit to him for the nice words he told us. He said that we D12 fans are among the realest fans and he is so right about it. He gave us lots of love and got a lot in return too. Derty Harry also cheered up with us, swallowing some Champaign on stage. Before the « 40 oz » song started, it was funny to see the crowd encouraging Bizarre to guzzle his beer which he did very fast. I dare joking in the middle of the show and shouting: « Where’s the lead singer of the band? » I don’t know if my words were heard, but several minutes later, Bizarre introduced himself as the new « lead singer of the band » and we were encouraged to sing the chorus of « My Band ». It was wonderful to see the complicity that united us with the rappers. The show was entertaining and funny: Proof even thrower some water on Kon Artis while he was rapping. Derty Harry and his fellows also announced their solo and common projects: the movie entitled « Runyon Cash has been confirmed, as well as Bizarre’s future solo album and of course it has been talked about both of Proof’s solo albums. Other songs like « U R The One » and « D12 World » have also been performed with the public’s enthusiastic participation. The concert closed with the great « How Come » song.

What else could I say about the D12 show in Paris?

The weak points of the show are following: there was a time schedule default. Too much time has been lost on the first part of the show that obviously wasn’t programmed. Not all of the songs of D12 World have been played because of the lack of time which is certainly a weakness for a promotion tour.

Besides that, it was great, entertaining and the 5 D12 emcees gave the best of themselves in front of a warm and enthusiastic public. Of course, we all missed Eminem. But I think people had also the opportunity to appreciate the D12 emcees for themselves and to prove Marshall wrong: yes, we know the names of the other D12 members and we fully appreciate their talent. We also wish them back to Paris as soon as possible.

OBIE TRICE, A TALENTED RAPPER SIGNED TO SHADY RECORDS

Obie Trice is one of the coolest guys I have ever met . We met on June the 19th at Paris Bercy (Anger Management Tour 2003) (at the busses area). He's got a great sense of humor and this encounter will always remain a great memory.

Obie Trice was born on November the 14th 1978. He attented High School at Cooley High in Detroit, Michigan. Obie was one of the best pupils at High school and he wanted to go on studying, but he changed his mind when his daughter Kobie was born on October the 5th 1998.

Obie started rapping since he was 11. He's been influenced by artists such as Rakim and Redman. Thanks to underground tracks like « The Well Known Asshole » he has gained some recognition and respect. He has made a guest appearance on the D12 album « Devil's Night ».

Obie's first album « Cheers » has been released on September the 23 rd 2003 and includes the collaboration of many talented rappers (Dr Dre, D12, Eminem, Busta Rhymes, 50 Cent, Lloyd Banks from G Unit, Nate Dogg…) An album that is definitly worth listening to.

More facts about Obie Trice

Obie Trice is a Detroit child. He was raised and grew up in Detroit City:

« I grew up on the Westside of Detroit. »

You will learn a lot about Detroit from Obie’s mouth. He defines the legendary infamous 7 Mile Road:

« 7 Mile is like an Ave. Back in the days it was poppin' in the summer time. We are the motor city so you would jump in your car, ride down 7 Mile and fuck with the bitches. Ride down and when you get to one end turn around and come back. A lot of motherfuckers got killed on 7 Mile, a lot of shit go on, on 7 Mile It's like an Ave. where everybody be at. »

Life in the Detroit hood isn’t always simple and Obie recalls some facts about his younger years in Detroit:

"I went and stayed with my girlfriend for a bit. My chick was with this older nigger. He came to the crib one day when me and my girl were laying in bed. He just walked into the house and started picking a scrap with me. I was 15 years old; this motherfucker's 38. So I'm dodging the blows when her bigger brother grabs him in a choke-hold and says, 'What you doin'? That's a little boy.' I called my homie and got him to bring a gun over, and he brings a pistol through. So I'm about to shoot this nigger, and everyone's saying to shoot him and nobody would know. But thanks to the grace of God, something was on my shoulders that stopped me. I almost killed him that night. Who knows, I might have got away with it. He could still be there, dead… »

A lot of people may probably ask themselves how Obie Trice has met Eminem. In fact, Bizarre introduced Obie to Eminem:

« D12 heard the shit and hooked up with me. I did a song with Bizarre. I sat down and kicked it with them and Bizarre called me one day like I'm with Em come spit for Em. I got in the Regal and shot up there and spit for him. He was in a rush, so I spit from the passenger window. He took my CD and was like I got to go. Next thing I know they was in a truck in London and they was playing Em's song,. This was when the Marshall Mathers LP was out and after they played the song my man played my sh*t. They came home, I had dinner with Paul Rosenberg (Manager and President of Shady Records) and we just hooked up with Em and it was smiles and handshakes from then on. »

If it is true that Dr Dre literally saved Eminem by signing him to Aftermath Records, Eminem played the same role in Obie’s life. Obie’s encounter with Marshall Mathers was also the start of a new friendship between both Detroit emcees. Obie wasn’t used to white people, but in real friendships, skin color doesn’t matter:

« Yeah that's my man, we got a real good relationship. At the time I wasn't really familiar with Caucasians and he got me up out of that 'cause they regular people just like everybody else. That's my nigga now. »

Obie’s new fame hasn’t altered his simplicity nor his relation to people he knew in the hood:

« All the people I grew up with, I'm still cool with," he says. Ain't nothin' changed. I ain't no snooty, arrogant type of motherfucker. I never turn my back on my people. I know that my people have been with me all the way. »

Obie Trice has collaborated with numerous artists in Detroit like the Fat Killaz, for instance. Although Shady Records is like a second family to him, he is not only « the guy who raps for Mr Mathers ». Obie Trice is a skilled rapper on his way to success.

Obie Trice's definition of the word "gangsta"

As Obie Trice states it, every man determined his definition of realness. It also depends on our background and our personal story. Obie also gives his own definition of the word "gangsta". What is a gangsta?

If you ask me, I'd tell you that a gangsta is somebody who is related to the ghetto, who is dealing with guns, drugs and illegal stuff. The urban dictionnary gives the following definition of "gangsta": "a gangsta whom by definition is also a pranksta dang, yo. that foolio is a gangsta pranksta." A "pranksta" being defined as "One who pretends to gang bang, a busta, a mark. " "Yo, u aint no G, you's a pranksta Cuhz."

Another website exposes 69 funny definitions of the word "gangsta". According to those definitions, many people could correspond to the word "gangsta":

http://www.angelfire.com/oh/JennaG/mood.html

I have even read a more original definition of "gangsta" on a rap message board. It was written " a gangsta is a person who is determined to reach his/her goals by ANY means." If this definition is true, I might be a gangsta!

But Obie's definition is linked much more to the realness of an act:

"Every man determined his definition of realness What's real to him Everybody's got their own definition of gangsta man Okay, this is my definition of gangsta

Surprise motherfuckers You thought I never would arise motherfuckers It's Obie Trice motherfuckers Look in the eyes of a real guy I ain't got time for lies Niggaz frontin like they lyin Nigga ya not tough Decease the bluff These streets is too heated up for you to front Dre laced the beat Heated up for you to bump Real name no gimmicks give my niggaz what they want Fuck the image of the blunt That ain't rap dog Be who you wanna be but let it be fat dog We'll never let a nigga tell you how you should act dog Specially when you're fuckin wit automatic gats dog These niggaz ain't playin I'm sayin I'm sprayin I do my dirty work wit my hands I'm a man Layin a nigga down he advance You fuckin wit my plans I'm lookin for the tooth..."

If you follow his description during the whole song, you will understand that Obie's definition has to do with real life experience. He targets all those fake gangstas who open their mouth, but whose sense of realness is totally fake. He doesn't give any name, but it is quite obvious.

"Keeping it real" is essential to be an authentic rapper. Like Eminem, Obie Trice grew up in the context of the Detroit underground. His album "Cheers" has a different style than Eminem's albums, it may be more about beers and bitches, but it also describes Detroit in its realness. Obie's words picture the harshness of the Detroit neighborhood. In the lyrics of "Look In My Eyes", Obie attacks all those fake gangsta wannabees who are trying to look tough, but who don't know anything about life in the streets. You cannot doubt Obie's sincerity. He's a man of experience who raps under his real name. Keep it real in the D, dawg.

Obie Trice, real name, no gimmicks.