‘As the familiar tune is sung on the Mickey Mouse club, “Now it’s time to say goodbye to all our family.” For SOHH.com, our time has come.’
– Felicia Palmer, Co-Founder
SOHH.com. Voted one of the best Hip Hop sites by Rolling Stone, sohh.com will close its’ server for good at 12 midnight, October 31, 2002. I talked with a rather upbeat and future-minded Felicia Palmer regarding the reasons for the closure of one of the most popular Hip Hop websites.
To cut straight to the chase…why is sohh.com shutting down?
FP: As the founder of the site…I have lost interest and motivation. I’m looking to pursue other opportunities, some which may not involve music…some that may. I’m undecided.
So, there can’t be someone within the magazine to take your place and continue on.
FP: We have a dedicated team…we started with the same goals…but, it was/is mainly my vision…and now the industry in itself does not reflect the true essence of Hip Hop. It’s alright to make money…but, Hip Hop music has lost it’s true meaning in a way, it’s become myoptic. No longer is it about sharing with the world… unity…or building that feeling that only music can do when combined with a goal of sincerity and community. Hip Hop has become distorted. And I, we at sohh.com feel we have accomplished what we set out to do, bringing the ‘true’ ideology of the Hip Hop culture to the world.
AD LOADING...
Seven years of banging the gong…what are some of your memories…the high points?
FP: The entire experience has been a high point…though times and attitudes have changed…we at sohh.com managed to produce a quality product…that was/is appreciated by others. Against all odds…our challenges and problems made us content…gave us purpose…so, I can honestly say that my entire experience working on sohh.com is memorable and always will be.
What do you have to say who are still out there?
FP: We’re passing the torch to those who have the stamina, passion and love for Hip Hop…not only the music…but, the community, the culture and the lifestyles. Not only here in the US…but, the worldwide community. Also, those who have the capacity to do this thing, not just as a hobby. Those, who have the business sense to do the right thing. I say to them who are true…be steadfast and take it to the next level.
Support Online Hip Hop…a mantra began by Felicia Palmer and her staff…now to be continued by others with the same drive…not the need for bling, bling and ballin’. A 21 gun Hip Hop salute to sohh.com…not the end of an era…but, a new beginning for real Hip Hop. Handle your business and show your love…because the faces and names may change…true Hip Hop is here to stay.
