Beat Lounge Bounces

The energy was electric and buzzing with opportunity at the Silver Dollar Room last Thursday, May 7th as Toronto’s most prominent hip-hop producers displayed their work at the Beat Lounge.

Fourteen producers from all over the GTA ranged in age, race, religion, and experience, yet they all had the same ability to make the room move as they shared their latest musical creations.

The Vinyl-killer featuring Nora Tones spun classic old school records as producers, rappers, fans, and friends met for drinks.

“Rappers and musicians get the acknowledgement in hip-hop, while producers are stuck in the basement.” Host Justis explained the business. “The Beat Lounge is a chance for them to get out and showcase themselves and what they’ve got.”

The Waterloo-born rapper/producer’s CD on sale at itunes, titled Just Is. http://www.justismusic.com/

Ali Deheshi, the Iranian-born Muslim producer/rapper let his beat rock first. His powerful life story is touching, and inspires the music he makes. “Music is my expression.” He shared.

Deheshi and his family fled the war torn Iran to Turkey, and spent four years in Greece before being sponsored by a Christian church to move to Canada for education.

He spent four years in Saskatchewan before coming to Toronto. “If it wasn’t for Toronto, I wouldn’t be where I am today musically.”

Thursday night was Deheshi’s last Beat Lounge before continuing his musical and life journey in Vancouver.

He announced the sale of his CD, “A Stereotypical World: a war story”, but by the end of the night he had handed almost everyone a free copy.

It can be purchased at http://www.deheshiempire.com/

All fourteen producers went through the line-up playing three beats each as the audience bobbed their heads in unison.

Producer Fraction has been coming to the Beat Lounge since it began a few years ago.

Fraction, whose real name is Shawn, began producing eleven years ago, and has since worked with artists such as Akon, Saukrates. “I come to the Beat Lounge for networking, and it’s a great chance to show myself, and get my music out there.”

Producers shook hands and met afterwards. Many have already collaborated.

For any upcoming producers interested in participating in an event visit www.unknownfunkhero.com or email beatlounge@unknownfunkhero.com