During an open forum discussion a few days ago for NY1 News’ “Inside City Hall,” Russell Simmons took a direct shot at New York’s Governor Eliot Spitzer concerning the cities strict drug laws.
Citing Governor Spitzer’s inefficiency at promised reform for these laws, Simmons went on to say “I’m very disappointed in the governor. I should say that the Hip Hop is getting ready to get in his ass.”
The impatience from Simmons stems from the fact that Eliot Spitzer had previously used drug law reforms as one of his staple platforms during his candidacy as Governor. However, the laws have yet to change dramatically, and possession or sale of drugs still constitutes twenty-one percent of prison sentences. In reflection, this costs the state half a billion dollars a year.
Governor Spitzer responded to this statement on Wednesday, saying he was still for a reform, but which way made it effective, he is still unsure. “We’re trying to come up with something that is reasoned that will maintain safety.” He went on to say, “People should not forget, we have seen a dramatic drop in crime over the years in New York State [because] we prosecute crimes, we’re tough, we lock up those that are guilty. And so we have to be very measured and reasoned in what we do.”
In closing remarks, Governor Spitzer said Simmons’ statement was not hurtful, and that he still considers him a friend.
Sire Records is dropping a soundtrack for the Body Of War documentary on March 18. Body of War, directed by Ellen Spiro and Phil Donahue, is a 2007 documentary following Tomas Young, an Iraq War veteran paralyzed from a bullet to the spine. The songs on the soundtrack were handpicked by Tomas Young. Tomas Young, 25 years old, was sent to Iraq last year with the Army’s 1st Cavalry Division. He joined the military for college money to further his education and, in his own words, “to exact some form of retribution” on the perpetrators of 9/11.” Two-and-a-half weeks into his tour of duty, Young was paralyzed from the chest down after being struck by an AK-47 round while sitting in an open truck bed. Since returning home, he has joined (IVAW)Iraq Veterans Against War and has become an outspoken critic of the war and occupation. Some of the songs chosen by Tomas include Lupe Fiasco, Against Me!, Public Enemy and many others. Eddie Vedder wrote a song specifically for the documentary and performed with Ben Harper at last year’s Lollapalooza. All proceeds on the disk go to the Iraq Veterans Against the War (IVAW.org).
What happens when a young lawyer quits his day job to become a rapper? The answer to that question can be found on YouTube.
Emeka Onyejekwe, 26, a 2006 NYU School of Law graduate was working as an associate at one of the top ten legal firms in the world when he gave up his high profile gig to pursue a dream of making music.
The result? “Mekka Don: The ‘Legal’ Hustler” will premiere today on YouTube. The six week reality series will premiere every Monday. It will chronicle Mekka’s life since leaving the comforts—or confines—of Corporate America for a career in rap.
While some may think the decision to leave his day job was foolish, Mekka considers it the answer to a higher calling.
“Music is my calling. God spoke to me and I listened,” he said of the decision.
In some ways, the decision to rap can almost be seen as an extension of his legal career. Mekka wants to use his talents to inspire and change the world.
“Hip Hop needs a change. It needs to be revitalized with new and positive energy. It is such a powerful tool and mechanism to move politics, and if done the right way, it can be used to change millions of peoples’ lives for the better.”
Even without a regular nine-to-five, Mekka is still getting his hustle on—legally, of course. Several athletes and celebrities will make appearances on the show, and the cast is round out by antagonists who think the lawyer turned MC has lost his mind.
The six week miniseries will culminate with the release of Mekka’s mix tape, the Mick Boogie assisted, aptly titled “Law and Order.”
“I was skeptical at first and with the status of the music industry, thought he was crazy for leaving his prestigious job, but he’s proven a lot to me and I’m excited to introduce his music and movement to the world,” Mick said of Mekka’s talents.
For more information, check out www.youtube.com/mekkadonmusic.
Reported By: Edwin Ortiz, Antoine King & Anthony Springer Jr
