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| Sony Urban Music Signs Damani Emerging West Coast rapper Damani has signed with My Block/Sony Urban Music, who will release the young artist's first full-length album. An Inglewood native, Damani is pioneering a new approach to West Coast rap, breaking musical and lyrical boundaries as a dominant force in the current Los Angeles hip-hop scene. An in-demand MC in local hip-hop clubs, Damani began to draw airplay on major LA radio stations - including serious BDS spins on Power 105.9 and K Day 93.5 - with tracks like "Inglewood" and "Gotta Stay Paid." Raised on the streets of LA, Damani was determined to develop a sound and style that would transform the LA hip-hop world. Toward that goal, he released his breakout mix-tape, "Congratulations Playa", hosted DJs Reflex and Skee, which made him one of the most sought-after artists on the West Coast. As admiration for his skills grew in the local rap community, Damani earned the respect of a number of West Coast rap pioneers, whose work had first inspired him to go into music, including Dr. Dre, Mel Man, and his biggest influence, Snoop Dogg, who called Damani an artist " ... .I could pass the torch to and watch it burn." "Damani is an important new voice in West Coast hip-hop, combining the truth and soul of the streets with hypnotic rhythms and an incredible musical sophistication", said Lisa Ellis, President, Sony Urban Music. "Sony Urban is proud to welcome him to our label family and look forward to working with him in creating a new chapter in hip-hop history." "Damani brings a new perspective to West Coast hip-hop", said Kawan "KP" Prather, Executive Vice President, A&R, Sony Urban Music. "As much as he was born and raised in Inglewood and has the respect of the streets, he has also seen other parts of the world. And he's able to let people know, through his music, that it's ok to represent your hood, but it's also great to experience as much life as possible. To me, that's gangsta, for real." write your comments about the article :: © 2006 Jazz News :: home page |