The Flame “My life can glow and shine In radiant display; New light will be the sign That guides me day by day. But just to sight the gleam, A goal must be my aim. My ambitions are the spark; My achievements are the flame.”- Rodger K. Tenney

Welcome to the first official installment of the Daily Grind where we bring you today’s music and news from across the net. Of course, as you all know its Independence Day and everybody’s out there firing up them grillz and what not. So I won’t keep you sittin at the computer for long. I’ll set it off by offering my recommendation for a great holiday flick. Last Friday, me and the homie went to see Live Free or Die Hard. Now we all know that your boy Bruce is a bad mofo, but I wasn’t sure if he could pull off another Die Hard after years away from the game. Well, I couldn’t be more wrong. Not only did he live up to the hype, but this may be one of the best action films I’ve ever seen in my life. The plot was strong, the classic McClane one-liners were as funny as ever and the action was non-stop and as over the top as its ever been. I don’t wanna hype it up too much, so just go check it out for yourself. Its official.

On the business front, it seems like those archaic industry execs are at it again. This time it’s Universal Music picking a fight with the one dude they need to secure a profitable future, Steve Jobs. Seems like 99 cent doesn’t stretch like it used to and they’re threatening to pull their catalog (1/3 of all new releases) from iTunes. Their argument: all music is not created equal (amen), so pricing should reflect that (boooo!). We’ll see how far this sets them back now.

Peace to J. Encite and the rest of the Guerilla Words crew for putting together a tight open mic last night. Of course you know there were a few duds out the bunch but for the most part it was entertaining. Had some talented female emcees Mala Reignz and Just rock the stage. Also, big up to the homies Elus, Illmind and Skyzoo who were in the building as well. Real talented and humble dudes. If you’re in the NYC area be sure to hit up the Guerilla Words open mic goin down on the first Tuesday of everymonth at Nightingales on 13th St. and 2nd Ave.

Aiight, that’s enough for now kiddos. Gotta hit the grill myself. In the spirit of Independent’s Day I’ll leave you with today’s jam from DP New Recruits Dirty Water - Dapperapperiginator.

Enjoy the holiday…Bless

- Shawn Lee