The March issue of Spin magazine contains a feature of the most important people in music. The list of 40 has representation from nearly every musical genre and is not limited to commercial artists. Very surprisingly, Jay Z topped the list as they crowned him not only as the king of hip hop, but music as well. Hip hop usually does not get that much respect from music publications.
Other notable appearances on the list were Eminem coming in at number 3, Outkast at number 6, Dre at 18 and Eve at number 30. Dre really should have been higher given his impact on music, not just hip hop. The most notable appearance on the list came at number 39, Definitive Jux. Spin gave it up to the indy label and not only recognized them as the future of underground hip hop but as threat to the commercial sound. Spin is truly out for my heart. Good lookin’ out Spin, recognize the real.
For those who are still sleeping on Def Jux, the label released 2001’s best album from Cannibal Ox, “The Cold Vein,” which is a five star classic. As well as Aesop Rock’s ill “Labor Days” album which was undoubtedly a top 5 album of 2001 (number 3 in my opinion. The new year has already been a great one for Def Jux with the release of 2 unbelievable albums.Aesop Rock’s “Daylight” EP is the years best album thus far and the “Def Jux Presents 2” compilation is one of the best compilation albums that I’ve ever heard. Look out for El-P’s solo debut, “Fantastic Damage.”
