#Growns we would be remiss if we did not take some time out to spread the word about this very special project Goin’ Off. As part of the of the RPM Series that focuses on record labels, is part narrative and part oral history, assembled from exclusive interviews with over thirty recording artists and industry veterans. On November 5, BMG Books will release Goin’ Off: The Story of the Juice Crew & Cold Chillin’ Records by Ben Merlis.
With a foreword written by producer/DJ/Stones Throw label owner Peanut Butter Wolf, and several dozen classic and unpublished photographs, Goin’ Off captures the spirit and energy of the time just before Hip-Hop was a household word.
Goin’ Off chronicles the rise and fall of the label and its partnership with Warner Bros. Records, and follows the careers of its recording artists. Roxanne Shanté was a 14-year-old battle rapper who spawned the diss record, MC Shan engaged in a legendary cross-borough feud with KRS-One, Kool G Rap was a foundational participant in what the media dubbed “gangsta rap,” Big Daddy Kane’s quick-witted lyricism changed the way people rhyme, the collegiate Masta Ace sought to uplift his
community during the height of the crack epidemic, The Genius (aka GZA) co-founded the rap dynasty Wu-Tang Clan, and the enigmatic Biz Markie had the world singing along to his platinum-selling anthem “Just a Friend.”
Pre-order Goin’ Off: The Story of the Juice Crew & Cold Chillin’ Records:
https://www.amazon.com/Goin-Off-Story-Chillin-Records/dp/1947026321/
Ivan Orr is a multi-instrumentalist, composer, performer, and writer. A native of Charlottesville, Virginia Ivan was involved with the forming and nascent days of The Music Resource Center as its first Program Director. A graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University’s Department of Music, Ivan currently resides in Richmond, VA where he maintains an active performance and production schedule while serving as the Music Editor for Grown Folks Music, a position he has held since 2010.
