Reality Check Records, Inc.

nappyafro "Song Of The Week" (10/29/08): "Change" (Sean Billz)

2008-10-29T08:06:00.004-05:00

Song of the Week: "Change" (Sean Billz)

Reality Check Records, Inc. recording artist Sean Billz continues to make noise as his promotional single "Change" is featured as nappyafro.com's "Song of the Week" for the week of October 29, 2008. During this last week before the all important presidential election on November 4, voting is being pushed heavily and getting to the poles is a must. No matter who you're voting for or your political preference, make it your priority to VOTE and make your voice heard!!!

Listen and download Sean Billz's "Change" at nappyafro.com ("Song of the Week") and check out all of the album reviews and columns featured as well on one of the best Hip Hop websites on the net. Don't forget...

ROCK

THE

VOTE!!!

Roc The Mic...Rock The Vote!!!

2008-09-15T00:47:00.005-05:00

Sean Billz Believes In "Change"

In a matter of days the buzz has begun to build about Sean Billz's promotional released single "Change". From views of the unofficial video on sites like Facebook, MySpace, YouTube, and even this blog, the positive comments have been reigning in about the single and its positive message about change in regards to the upcoming November election and many of the pressing issues of the world.

Sean Billz and Reality Check Records, Inc. sincerely thanks and appreciates all of the views and support it has received for the single...but we're just getting started. Sean Billz and RC Records are looking to take this single to the next level in support of Mr. Barack Obama and his campaign to become the next President of the United States. The promotional single is currently being prepared for distribution and an official video is in the works and being shot to be released. So continue to be on the watch for more from this very powerful single "Change".

GO OBAMA 2008!!!

Video: "Change" - Sean Billz (1st Single Off 'History...Living Proof In A Dying Art')

2008-09-10T22:19:00.010-05:00

During the current campaign of Barack Obama for President a major theme has been present throughout...CHANGE!!! So with that in mind Reality Check Records, Inc. recording artist Sean Billz decided to name the first single off the upcoming RC Records compilation album "Change". SB speaks lyrics about bringing a change from Hip Hop to Politics to School Systems. Check out the promotional video for the single "Change" off the 'History...Living Proof In A Dying Art' compilation album.

OBAMA 2008

Change - Sean Billz

News: Sean Billz New Interview!

2008-07-20T08:47:00.005-05:00

Sean Billz recently had an in-depth interview with Excite Magazine! In the article he toches on numerous subjects including the roster changes on the label, the future of his music, and plans and ideas coming up very soon that will bring Reality Check Records the recognition it deserves! Check out the full interview here http://excitemagazine.blogspot.com/2008/07/re-introducing-sean-billz.html

News: New VP of New Media

2008-05-19T22:19:00.003-05:00

Recently, Reality Check Records, Inc. has been making news with its moves and changes. Much of this news has been from its losses rather than its gains with the release of two of its recording artists (Midnight, Ché Calhoun) last month. The release of those artists along with some other changes within the label have shaken up the camp. But as of late RC Records has been working hard in building back up its solid foundation and further developing and expanding the label in the process. With that said, RC Records is proud to announce the newest member of its team in Brandan Daniels. Brandan has been named the new VP of New Media for Reality Check Records, Inc. The label is excited about this addition to the RC Records camp and knows that it will further allow the label to grow and develop even further.

Brandan Daniels is a Chicago native and has always been an ambitious guy since he could hover around on his own. He is strong willed and determined, and this has been proven through his many academic accomplishment and accolades. This young man has soared beyond what many thought he wouldn't achieve or overcome. With his experience in magazine editing and promotion his new position at Reality Check Records, Inc. as VP of New Media was a perfect match to help the ever growing record label achieve further goals in bringing in new fans as well as maintain contact with consistent fans by providing the media division with his wit and determination to be the best. His passion for music speaks volumes and his mind holds no barriers. From Hip-Hop, Soul, R&B, Pop, and many more genres, he has the perfect mindset to understand RC Records' original appeal to Hip-Hop. He accepted this position at the label not only being a close friend of Sean Billz since high school, but because of his love to further assist a brilliant art form to push it to the next level. Brandan aka B-Real is happy to join the team and can't wait to begin this new chapter with RC Records.

2nd Annual Project H.O.P.E. (Helping Our Peers Elevate): The Series Benefit Concert

2008-05-15T14:45:00.002-05:00

Reality Check Records, Inc. presents its 2nd annual Project H.O.P.E. (Helping Our Peers Elevate): The Series benefit concert on Friday, June 27, 2008. This all-ages concert show will take places at New Covenant M.B. Church (740 E. 77th Street, Chicago, IL, 60619) at 7:00 PM (doors open @ 6:30 PM). The concert event is free admission, so come out and enjoy a showcase of talented and gifted artists while supporting a charitable cause.

Come check out Reality Check Records, Inc. along with other featured performers C.H.A.O.S., Angela Cole & Lyrical Fusion, MarksMan, Anthony Ingram, Christie Lee Coleman, and Lester Jay. Music for the concert will be provided by Reality Check Records, Inc.'s own DJ Joe III and live band S.O.B.'s (Sounds of Brilliance). Merchandise from the featured artists will be available.

All donations will be donated to the Y-Me National Breast Cancer Organization Illinois Affiliate.

Sean Billz Interview

2008-03-19T13:52:00.003-05:00

Sean Billz

Sean Billz Interview

Author: SPF

SPF: Now that the third mixtape has been completed, what are your thoughts on the final product?
Sean Billz: I am very pleased with how the third mixtape came out in the final product. I thought the songs that made the final cut were really good and the artists showed much improvement in their skills and abilities. I’m very excited about the release because I feel that we showed growth on this mixtape in many areas from the artists' songs to the sound quality. I can say that the third mixtape would probably be my 2nd favorite out of the three official mixtapes that we have released, with the second mixtape being my favorite.

SPF: Favorite song(s)?
SB: My favorite songs from the third mixtape would have to be: "Sincerely", "You Will Lose", "Only For So Long", "In Circles", and "G.R.O.W. (Greed Raising Our World)".

SPF: Have you named any singles yet?
SB: We haven't officially named or announced any singles from the third mixtape yet, but the label is planning on determining those singles very soon. There are several songs such as "Sincerely" and "Signs" that I already have in mind for being possible singles with music videos to accompany them.

SPF: Excellent. Can you get more specific about the music videos?
SB: Yes, I have plans and ideas floating through my head about music videos that I would want to make for certain songs. For this mixtape we are planning to release several music videos for each song that we release as a single. With the success that we had from the label's first music video for "What Type Of Artist Are You?" featured on our second mixtape, we are planning on collaborating again with SPF and his video production company for the upcoming music video
releases. I think that there are going to be some great videos made and released from this mixtape.

SPF: In what areas have Reality Check Records really grown since the last mixtape?
SB: I feel that RC Records has grown in several areas since the previous mixtape's release in 2006. In those two years spent without releasing a project the label focusing on growing and further developing on the business side. The label became an officially registered independent record label in November 2007, so that was one of the big accomplishments that we achieved in that time. We also focused more on the development of our artists in allowing them to see growth in their skills and abilities as artists. One of the other major things that we did to allow RC Records to improve and grow is that we purchased better equipment for the label's recording studio. This allowed for an easier recording, mixing, and mastering process and also for better sound quality on the songs. This is something that many people who have purchased a copy of the third mixtape have pointed out in the sound quality being better than it was on the second mixtape.

SPF: Talk about your tentative plans for the next RC Record, your very first solo album?
SB: Well, the plans for my debut solo album are coming together quite nicely since the label is going to be focusing more on the artists’ solo careers in starting to work on solo projects. I can say that I have been well prepared for my debut album as it something that I have been working on and planning on the side for some years now. Since I haven been working on this project for a few years, I have about 38 songs fully written that are going to up for possible tracks on the album. These are songs that were written over two years ago and songs that were written for the third mixtape but didn’t make the final cut. So now I am really focusing on the music production part of the album, as I am going to be producing every track on the album. I can say that the production is coming along very nicely and some wonderful musical tracks have been created. I am going to release a solo mixtape before releasing the album, as the mixtape will serve as hype and promotion for the album’s release. We are currently planning for the mixtape to be released this summer, while the album’s project release date is 2009. I’m very excited about these initial solo projects and am working hard on making them as perfect as possible.

SPF: Terrific. So sometime in 2009 we can expect the solo album?
SB: At first the label said that we would try to have the album released in Fall 2008 after the mixtape’s release during the summer. But I was against this decision because I don’t feel like I have a large enough fan base to properly support the project in sales. So the album is currently being scheduled for a tentative release date in 2009. I would rather wait a whole year if that’s what it takes to being able to build up my fan base and audience more with performances and guest features than to release the project soon as it would feel rushed and there wouldn’t be a lot of support for the project when it’s released.

SPF: Are there plans for another group mixtape in the near future?
SB: There aren’t plans for another group/official mixtape release in the immediate future. I started making plans for the label’s forth official mixtape while we were in production of the third mixtape. These were just basic plans such as the project’s title and things of that nature, but not too much in detail because we decided that we would focus more on solo work and put off releasing another group mixtape for a while. The closest date that I can say fans can expect another group mixtape is possibly in 2009 or 2010. When it was decided that we would start focusing more on the artists’ solo careers, we figured that it would be two or three years before we would release another group mixtape. Plus, there have been recent activity in the RC Records camp with artists being released from the label for various reasons. So once we have the current artists’ solo careers established and steady is when another group mixtape can be expected from the label.

SPF: You have taken Midnight, Ché Calhoun, and Charice under your wings and mentored them, molding them into their full potential. How much progress are they making? Any plans for their solo albums in the near future?
SB: I think that each of the artists has made substantial progress and growth as artists during their respective time on the label. Each artist has made progress in different areas such as live performance, recording, songwriting, and more. I am very pleased and proud of them for all of the progress and growth that they have made in these areas. As with any artist I think there’s always room for improvement in the strive for perfection, so I will continue to work with them for seeing improvement on their skills and ability in their artistic development. Out of the three artists I think that Charice has the most potential for her career and what she wants to do within the music industry. There were basic plans made for the artists’ solo album, but nothing has been planned in much detail as that will occur when it’s time to focus on that artist’s project. They are just focusing on further developing their careers. They will begin working on their solo albums once my debut album is completed and released.

SPF: You have really sparked this label and are really getting serious about seeing it grow into a
well known and respected Chicago based label. How are things going on the business aspect?
SB: Things are going very well for the label in regards to the business side of things. When this year started I said to myself that I wanted to make 2008 our year and I wanted it to be the year that we really break out in the music industry. I have made it a personal assignment of mine to become the best businessman that I can be and I feel like I am doing that in studying music business in school and constantly reading books about the subject matter. Another thing that have really been doing is networking and building relationships with other companies and businesses that can be assets to the label. I think that the rest of this year is really going to be good for the label and we are going to continue and grow in a great manner. I think this year is going to be the start of a lot of consecutive successful years for RC Records.

SPF: Any new and exciting aspects to the label?
SB: There are many things that we’re getting ready to do with RC Records. We are currently making plans for opening the label’s professional recording studio in Chicago. The plans are for having that project completed in the next couple years possibly by 2010. We are also developing the music production aspect of the label with additions of a live band and a music
production company. The live band is called S.O.B., which means “Sounds Of Brilliance” and it would consist of many live instruments and instrumentations. The music production company, called Klassic Kompositions, is something that I had developed for myself as a music producer. I had the idea of branching it out and making it a part of the label when I developed relationships with talented producers who were looking for a record label to call their home.

SPF: Are you looking to expand your artist roster?
SB: At the moment I am not looking to sign any new artists to the label. I want to continue to focus on developing the current artists that are signed to the label. I feel that once their careers are established and going steady then we can start looking to expand the label in signing new talented artists. I always keep myself as an artist, producer, or songwriter available for working with artists both new and experienced. I especially enjoy working with new artists that are just starting out in their career as I hope to offer some guidance and support in teaching them about various things in the music industry.

SPF: If you are looking to buy the mixtape and support RC artists, where can you find the mixtape online orcall to purchase?
SB: Currently all products such as mixtapes from RC Records are self-distributed and they can be purchased from any member of the label. The label is really looking to get started in the aspects of digital sales as that is becoming a major outlet for the music industry. In April the third mixtape will be available at a few online distributors (U.S. iTunes, Rhapsody,
Amazon) through a relationship developed with the online company TuneCore. We are always striving and looking for creative outlets in being able to get our music out and available to people to purchase until the time comes that we are able to secure major distribution in retail stores.

SPF: Any future gigs you have lined up?
SB: One big upcoming gig we have is our 2nd annual Project H.O.P.E. benefit concert that will take place in June. This is the second concert event that we will have put on for the Project H.O.P.E. series and it’s looking to be better than the first show. This is something that I am excited about because we get to showcase great local talent from around Chicago as well as donate money raising from the concert to a charitable organization. We’re hoping for this concert
series to continue to grow and become even better over the years that it is done in being something people look forward to from RC Records.

SPF: Would you like to tour the country, possibly after your solo release?
SB: That’s something that I would definitely love to do eventually in my career as an artist. It would be great if I could start touring the country after the release of my debut album to support the project and expose our music to more people around the country. This is probably going to be something that I will focus on getting done for when my solo project is released as I feel it would be a great resource for the label.

SPF: Last thoughts...
SB: I just want to thank everybody that took the time to read this interview and hopefully they were able to learn something about Reality Check Records, Inc. that they didn’t know of before. I also want to encourage everybody to support RC Records in purchasing the A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions) mixtape. Support the music that supports the people. Check Up!!!

"A.O.A." Mixtape Review

2008-03-19T13:15:00.004-05:00

A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions): Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter 3

A few weeks ago we announced that our good friend SPF was hard at work on the official review for Reality Check Records, Inc.'s recently released A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions) mixtape. Well the anticipation is over and we can proudly say that the official review is HERE! Check out the excellent review that SPF did for the mixtape and be sure to drop some feedback about it. Also, go out and pick up a copy of the A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions) mixtape NOW! Don't delay or be a sleeper of a great compilation.

Reality Check Records, Inc. :: A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions): Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter 3 :: Reality Check Records, Inc.
Reviewed by SPF

The other day I was shuffling through the channels on my pitiful 15-inch screen I call my television. My thumb began to throb after repeatedly pressing down on the ‘next channel’ button. Half of the hour had passed, yet my dilemma remained the same. I finally rested my weak thumb. Something seemed out of place. The television was stuck on MTV. Soulja Boy’s Crank That music video was on the airwaves (surprisingly a rarity for a station that stands for ‘music television’). I stopped and pondered for a second. Sure, Soulja Boy’s extraordinary successful hit was catchy with a club-banging beat that anybody could bob their head to. It had that well choreographed dance that every white boy in America was sadly trying to master. Even suburban mothers recognized the tune. I thought to myself, is this really how far the rap industry has collapsed? Has the music industry as a whole completely sold out? Now of days, everybody is afraid to speak their mind. Where’s the substance?

In 2006, Sean Billz requested that a marginally talented writer compose a review for his independent label’s second mixtape. I gladly accepted the offer. Not only do I regard Sean as a very intelligent and creative human being, but I also clearly support his message. Finally, a throwback hip-hop artist who puts the street poetry back into rap. America might call me crazy, but we could use far less of Soulja Boy and far more of Sean Billz and Reality Check Records. Achieving Our Ambitions (A.O.A.) marks the third official release from the small Chicago indie. The label was envisioned and created by Billz, a master of his craft, who excels not only on the mic but also behind the scenes producing and running the label as its CEO. Billz mentors three young and talented artists, who equally shine on the third compilation. Midnight, the wise and lyrical emcee, with a voice some might compare to a young Kayne West, Charice, the soulful singer with a God-given set of pipes, and the youngest of the group, Ché Calhoun, with his laid back flow. “I have made it a personal assignment of mine to become the best businessman that I can be,” Billz bluntly states, wise beyond his 20 years of life. “I feel that RC Records has grown in several areas since the previous mixtape's release in 2006. In those two years spent without releasing a project the label focused on growing and further developing on the business side. We also focused more on the development of our artists in allowing them to see growth in their skills and abilities as artists.”

“Back To Business” kicks the third mixtape off, featuring the talented flow of Ché Calhoun. The hard hitting beat sets the tone for the rest of the mixtape, which presents a much smoother and cleaner sound than the past two compilations. “Top Of The World”, can be compared to the Kayne West productions that were born from the heart of Chicago. Billz wisely brings that sound back home, spitting into the mic.

“Reality Check gaining ample respect
And we did it without no words degrading women with techs”

“Top Of The World” can be described as a label anthem. Billz continues to rep RC stating

“Motivated, driven are the words that describe me
And still to this day while the evils ain’t surprise me
Large livin’ wisely, my crew beside me”

Midnight first appears on “Get At Me”, a very hard-hitting, pulse-pounding track, which works well with Midnight’s flow and delivery. The hook goes south, featuring the popular chopped and screwed style. “Get At Me” is another popular label anthem, and features a surprise twist halfway through. Hint: Humorous voicemails are involved. “Get Live”, is about as “commercial” as you’ll see Reality Check swing. A popular club banger, Billz showcases a fast and intense delivery, in contrary to his normally laid-back and easygoing style. The hook is very catchy, one of those one-liners that will be stuck in your head for days. The first collaboration on the mixtape features Midnight and Sean Billz, in the anti-materialism, “You Will Lose”. One of the strongest instrumentals on the mixtape, Billz blends a violin that fits the mood perfectly. Midnight hits it dead on, rapping

“Because your brain’s abused
By the rap pack because all they talk is trash
Ain’t never lived in the hood
They don’t know the half
Instead they glorify”

Billz along with Midnight adds

Billz: "Is that really hip-hop, man that shit is just a circus"
Midnight: "Full of niggas talking shit, making money off of beats"
Billz: "They ain’t dying from no bullets, it’s from mad cow disease"

“Movin’ On (Through With You)”, is the first time Charice appears on the mixtape with Sean Billz collaborating. The duel always finds a way to make a good song, this time in the form of a club banger. Charice sways from her casual soul, switching to street cred, with a very catchy hook

“Listen boy, I’m movin’ on cause I’m through with you
Stop callin’ my phone, cause I’m through with you”

Billz changes up the tempo on “Straight To The Top”, a fresh sound that reminds me of a performance with a big jazz band circa 1920. The RC hype track, displays Sean Billz unique, but often-unheard rapid-fire delivery and flow. “Get Money”, features one of the craziest instrumentals on the compilation. Fans will love the innovative sound, presenting RC’s ever expanding production department. Midnight, Ché Calhoun, and Sean Billz all drop verses, each holding their own. “G.R.O.W. (Greed Raising Our World)”, uses much of the same formula that made “What Type Of Artist?” on the second mixtape the most popular hit. The laid-back beat gives Billz plenty of room to drop verse after verse backing the song’s strong message. Tackling the addicting issue of greed is perfect timing, considering the large amounts of cash and materialistic items often flaunted in current hip-hop videos.

“Performances unrehearsed, lack substance and skill
I can scream on stage too, but won’t get 100 mil
Being whack must pay the bills”

But nothing is protected

“Controversial magazines never printed behind scenes
They just give you what they’d rather read like ignorant teens”

Midnight and Sean Billz once again collaborate on “Signs”, the heartfelt tune about poverty and inner city crime. The two provide perfect chemistry, touching the hearts of many

“I wish my brother start thinking, put down that gun
Cause for every man we kill, there’s a fatherless son
Think back, a little bit, to Tupac and Biggie
Even though not physical, they still live in me”

Charice’s returns to her true harmonic vibe, with the soft but effective “More Than Infatuation”. Her vocals really shine, with the catchy hook adding additional appeal. Hip-Hop fans will love RC’s rendition of “On My Own”, over the very popular “Thug’s Cry” instrumental. Billz and Midnight really hit it off on this mixtape, clearly being the biggest highlight of Achieving Our Ambitions. The two quickly exchange verses and lines in the chorus, never missing a beat

Midnight:
“Man I feel so alone, I just want to give up
I put this metal to my dome, but my finger was stuck”

Billz:
“Don’t worry about mama, cause now we can’t afford to
Just keep doing God’s work, and he’ll reward you”

“Sincerely”, is the melodic slow jam dedicated to Billz’s mother. Charice adds a nice touch on the chorus. She really stands out on these tracks, bringing a tear or two to some. “Sincerely” is one of more touching and personal tracks on the mixtape. The compilation switches gears on “What Are We Doing?”, a creative and innovative track that is half hip-hop, half def poetry. Midnight really shows off his talent and brilliance, as the production wisely steps aside and gives him room to speak his mind (something that was lacking a bit on the last mixtape). Strong and bold, his words plead for a better black community. “What Are We Doing?” was one of my favorite tracks on Achieving Our Ambitions. “Only For So Long”, is yet another solid collaboration between Charice and Sean Billz. An ear grabbing slow jam, with a message that carries its own weight. “In Circles”, completes Achieving Our Ambitions in perfect fashion. Billz, Midnight, and Ché Calhoun work together as a great trio, rapping over that true Chicago sound. The beat is outstanding and the vibe even better. Billz finds RC’s message terrifically in four lines

“It was 4 years ago, I remember the day well
Started out as a dream, people thought we would fail
Talkin’ about we wouldn’t sale, cause we spoke against the grain
No platinum or gold chains, wasn’t focused on the fame”

Midnight adds

“Had to chose between insanity or going to college
Papa said to leave, truth is the knowledge
So I had to give it up at the price it gets
My little cousin is a thug, so the circle never ends”

The circle will never end for Reality Check Records either. At least that’s the mentality from these four driven young adults, looking to bring hip-hop back to its golden age. “When this year started I said to myself that I wanted to make 2008 our year and I wanted it to be the year that we really break out in the music industry,” Billz proclaims. The leader of Reality Check Records plans to focus his attention now on his own solo album, a project he has anticipated since he was a young teen. “I have been well prepared for my debut album as it’s something that I have been working on and planning on the side for some years now.” Billz solo album has a tentative release date for 2009, though it should be mentioned he’s not in a hurry and wants to perfect the album has much as possible. Positive and innovative. Real music with a conscience. A few of the ways to describe Reality Check’s music. The label’s final mixtape ended with a bang. Now the artists look to further their own careers with solo albums. Seeing the progress this foursome has made in three short years, one can only wonder what’s in store for the next three. It’s a very bright future. The circle continues.

A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions): Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter 3

Official Track Listings:
01 Back To Business – Ché Calhoun
02 Top Of The World – Sean Billz
03 Get At Me - Midnight
04 Get Live – Sean Billz
05 You Will Lose – Midnight & Sean Billz
06 Movin’ On (Through With You) – Charice ft. Sean Billz
07 Straight To The Top – Sean Billz
08 Get Money - Ché Calhoun ft. Midnight & Sean Billz
09 G.R.O.W. (Greed Raising Our World) – Sean Billz
10 Signs – Midnight ft. Sean Billz
11 More Than Infatuation – Charice ft. Sean Billz
12 On My Own – Midnight ft. Sean Billz
13 Sincerely – Sean Billz ft. Charice
14 What Are We Doing? – Midnight
15 Only For So Long – Charice ft. Sean Billz
16 In Circles – Sean Billz, Ché Calhoun, & Midnight

In April, A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions) will be available at a few online distributors (U.S. iTunes, Rhapsody, Amazon) through a relationship developed with the online company TuneCore. Visit the RC Records Myspace page for more information.

Reality Check Records, Inc. Official Myspace Page

Listen to all the A.O.A. tracks on Sean Billz YouTube profile

SPF recently sat down with Sean Billz, discussing the third mixtape and the label’s future plans. Check out the complete interview here.

"A.O.A." Mixtape Review...Coming Soon

2008-03-05T03:37:00.009-06:00

SPF

An official review for Reality Check Records, Inc.'s latest release, A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions): Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter 3, will be here in a few weeks. The official review is being written by SPF, who wrote the official review for RC Records' 2nd official mixtape Realize Reality. The official review is posted here on the RC Records blog. You can check it out and read the excellent review that SPF wrote for that project. Once the official review for the A.O.A. mixtape is completed, it will be posted here on the RC Records blog for all to enjoy. We'll keep you up to date on the official review's completion status and its expected date of arrival.

Also, be on the lookout for other official reviews for the A.O.A. mixtape from the likes of Excite Magazine, Nappyafro, Adam's World, and RapReviews. There are links to all of these sites and you should check them out. These are excellent sites for things related to music, especially that of hip-hop. These sites provide great articles, blogs, reviews, audio, and more. So do yourself a favor and check out these great site. RC Records supports them and feels that you should too.

The Wait Is Over, The Mixtape Is Here!!!

2008-03-05T03:09:00.014-06:00

Newly Released A.O.A. Mixtape

That's correct, the title means exactly what it says. The latest release from Reality Check Records, Inc. has finally arrive and the wait has been long due. RC Records's recent release, A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions): Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter 3, is the latest installment in the label's "Chapter" series of official mixtapes. The mixtape comes on the heels of the label's successful previously released official mixtape Realize Reality and looks to carry on the success that it had. Announced by the label, this will be the last official mixtape in the series released for a while as they will focus more on the artists' solo careers and solo projects.

At 16 tracks, this stands to be RC Records' shortest release so far, but the music provided makes up for that fact and leaves the listener craving for more, which is usually the goal for albums of shorter length. The songs on this mixtape vary in subject matter and topics, but collectively display Reality Check Records, Inc.'s talented artists and their skills. All four of RC Records' artists (Sean Billz, Midnight, Ché Calhoun, Charice) are present on this mixtape and they pick up right where they left off on the 2nd mixtape with good quality songs. Some of the featured songs that have already been deemed favorites by listeners and fans alike are: "Only For So Long", "Sincerely", "In Circles", and "Signs", but don't count out the other tracks on the mixtape as they hold their own to these fan favorites.

Reality Check Records, Inc. is currently selling the mixtape through self-distribution, as a copy of the mixtape can be purchased for the SRLP of $5.00 from any member of the label. By April 2008, the mixtape will be available for online purchase (digital download) through a select number of retailers. The online retailers that will carry copies of the mixtape include: iTunes (U.S. Store), Rhapsody, and Amazon. The price for purchase may vary through the select retailers. This move to the digital domain will be a first for Reality Check Records, Inc. as it will make all of its future projects available for sell through online retailers.

Official Track Listings:

1. Back To Business - Ché Calhoun

2. Top Of The World - Sean Billz

3. Get At Me - Midnight

4. Get Live - Sean Billz

5. You Will Lose - Midnight & Sean Billz

6. Movin' On (Through With You) - Charice ft. Sean Billz

7. Straight To The Top - Sean Billz

8. Get Money - Ché Calhoun ft. Midnight & Sean Billz

9. G.R.O.W. (Greed Raising Our World) - Sean Billz

10. Signs - Midnight ft. Sean Billz

11. More Than Infatuation - Charice ft. Sean Billz

12. On My Own - Midnight ft. Sean Billz

13. Sincerely - Sean Billz ft. Charice

14. What Are We Doing? - Midnight

15. Only For So Long - Charice ft. Sean Bilz

16. In Circles - Sean Billz, Ché Calhoun, & Midnight

The entire mixtape can be heard in full-length at RC Records in-house music producer SBK's official YouTube page. There you can listen to all of the tracks in their entirety before purchasing the mixtape. Check it out and drop some feedback on the songs you listen to.

Preview: "A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions): Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter 3"

2008-01-24T13:25:00.002-06:00

A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions): Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter 3

"It's almost time now niggas!!!!!"

Those words from Jay-Z in a scene from his movie Fade To Black are all to perfect in describing the release of RC Records' 3rd official mixtape entitled A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions): Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter 3. It has been over one year since we last had a release from the label back in August 2006 with their 2nd official mixtape Realize Reality. The label announced February 19 as the mixtape's official release date at a recent performance show.

This mixtape has been anticipated and fans have been patiently waiting for its release. Rightly so this is because of the critical acclaim and positive reviews that the previous mixtape received. With hit songs like "What Type Of Artist Are You?" and "In Memory Of...(Remix)" featured on the 2nd mixtape, fans are anxious to see if RC Records can continue this trend in delivering classic songs and personal anthems. At recent performance shows, the crowds have warmly accepted the songs to come on the upcoming mixtape as they were performed. Songs such as, "Signs" , "Get Live", and "Straight To The Top", which features Sean Billz displaying a rapid-fire flow delivery, shows Reality Check Records hasn't lost a step since it's last release.

Recently, the mixtape's cover (pictured above) and track listings have been revealed to the public to show that things are certainly finishing up in terms of the project's release. In a recent conversation with Reality Check Records recording artist Sean Billz, it was stated that this will be the label's last official mixtape release for a while as they will begin working on solo projects following the release in February. With that being stated it can be said that this mixtape should truely be cherished upon its released in being the last mixtape from the label that we'll see for a while. It doesn't come as surprise since it's natural for artists to work on their solo careers to expand and grow as individuals apart from their labelmates. This mixtape will not come as a dissappoint though as I am sure that this mixtape will deliver the goods in terms of classic material and excellent songs that the label and its artists will become known for. This mixtape will leave you yearning for more and hopes that RC Records changes its mind and doesn't take a break from its mixtapes.

Possible Track Listings (Not Finalized Track Listings)

Intro
Back To Business - Young Ché
Top Of The World - Sean Billz
You Will Lose - Midnight & Sean Billz
Movin' On (Through With You) - Charice ft. Sean Billz
Get Live - Sean Billz
In Circles - Sean Billz, Young Ché, & Midnight
Get At Me - Midnight
Only For So Long - Charice ft. Sean Billz
Get Money - Young Ché ft. Midnight & Sean Billz
Straight To The Top - Sean Billz
On My Own - Midnight ft. Sean Billz
G.R.O.W. (Greed Raising Our World) - Sean Billz
More Than Infatuation - Charice ft. Sean Billz
Signs - Midnight ft. Sean Billz
Sincerely - Sean Billz ft. Charice
What Are We Doing? - Midnight
Outro

A.O.A. (Achieving Our Ambitions): Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter 3

FEBRUARY 19, 2008

We Lost One...Another One (sigh)

2007-12-04T20:58:00.001-06:00

Pimp C

All my homies drinkin liquor, tears in everybody's eyes
Niggaz cried, to mourn a homie's homicide
But I can't cry, instead I'm just a shoulder
Damn, why they take another soldier?

- 2Pac ("How Long Will They Mourn Me?")

These words from the late great Tupac Shakur from his song "How Long Will They Mourn Me?" as so appropriate at the moment in today's world. Earlier this afternoon, the rap game and the world lost another soldier to death in the passing of Chad Butler. Pimp C, as he was better known to the world, stood as one of the South's pioneering rappers and all-time greats. As one half of the dynamic rap group UGK, he and Bun B delivered some of the greatest music coming from Texas that represented the south to the fullest. Even through his three-year jail bid, we all stood united in support for Pimp C with the "Free Pimp C" movement led by his lifelong partner Bun B.

Hearing the news about Pimp C's passing early today came as a great shock. I couldn't believe those words when I first read them on HipHopDX that read, "BREAKING: Pimp C Found Dead In Hotel Room". I felt my body stand still in disbelief that legendary rapper Pimp C had died. With the recent passing of football player Sean Taylor and Dr. Donda West, this was just too much for me to take. I couldn't believe that we had lost another from the world in the death of Pimp C. His death led me to realize just how precious life really is and how we truely have to live each day like it's our last because you never know when God will call you.

Even though I wasn't the biggest Pimp C or UGK fan, I still had much respect for their music and their movement in the South. I believe it was a song ("Country Cousins") on Talib Kweli's recent album Ear Drum that featured UGK in which I heard Bun B rap, "Down south we listen to it all, we didn't discriminate". This line from Bun B stuck out to me so much from any other lyrics in the song. This showed me just how much UGK respected the rap game and how they supported everybody no matter which coast you were from. In a world where the south gets disrespected and overlooked because of their grills, candy painted cars, and southern slang, we could all take notes from UGK and learn how to respect and support everybody cause we're really all in this together.

UGK's song "One Day" has really captured my feelings during this time and really has a strong message that's come to the surface during this time. 1996 couldn't be more accurate in 2007 in saying, "One day youre here, but then youre gone". Like 2Pac once stated, death is around the corner and it's being felt more than ever right now. My personal motto has always been "Live For Tomorrow, Make It Past Today" and that's exactly what I'm going to do. I'm gonna live my life to the fullest and make everyday count and see my dreams come true.

R.I.P.
Pimp C
Sean Taylor
Dr. Donda West

...We're Losing To Many!!!

Review: "Realize Reality: Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter Two"

2007-12-04T18:53:00.001-06:00

Realize Reality: Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter Two

With Reality Check Records' third official mixtape nearing completion for its February 2008 release, we decided to take a trip back to its previously released mixtape Realize Reality in viewing the project's review.

Reality Check Records, Inc.
Realize Reality: Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter Two
Reality Check Records, Inc.

Mixtape Review

Author: SPF

In a day and age where the word ‘Reality’ can be anything from celebrity tabloids to television shows on CBS and MTV, making the distinction between what’s substantial and what’s not can almost seem like an impossible task. The great photographer Michael Nolan once said, "There are many things in life that will catch your eye, but only a few will catch your heart…pursue those." When a small group of artists from the independent record label Reality Check Records, Inc. jumped on the music scene in January of 2006, they were instantly recognized for their genuine message and soulful music.

"The message of Reality Check Records, Inc. is that we’re bringing "real" music to the industry with a "real" message. Seeing as how much of the music industry, in particular the genre of Hip-Hop/Rap, has conformed to the commercialism just to succeed, we thought it was time for a change to be brought about," stated Reality Check Records, Inc.’s multi-talented Chris Thurston (Sean Billz). Thurston, who has a different identity for each musical task he conquers, prefers to go by the name Sean Billz for rapping, Sean B. for producing, and DJ Triple Threat for DJ’ing. Billz also handles the business side of the label, serving as mentor and friend to the label’s three other artists: Jeremy Kennebrew (Midnight), Rydell Covington (Young Ché), and Charice Rodgers (Charice).

"I love and support all of my label mates to the fullest potential. We’re all one big family, and if one makes it then we’re all making it together," Billz added about his fellow colleagues. The Chicago foursome has only been making music for less then a year, yet they’re already making noise all around Illinois. "Rap music and the rap game has gotten so far from its roots and what made it a unique genre of music that was different from any other. Nowadays most artists are just focused on the material things in life, and therefore that is what the basis of most of their songs. All you hear about as far as song topics go is: wealth, lust, and prosperity. You never really hear a lot of artists tackling the major issues that are focused with our world, and I think that is because they are afraid to tread into those waters with the fear of not being accepted by the public." What Reality Check Records, Inc. isn’t afraid of, is testing those waters, and that is clearly demonstrated on their second mixtape, Realize Reality: Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter Two.

The mixtape’s first song is S. Billz, "Inaugural Address", which features a light piano and bass riff that fits perfectly with Billz’ soft, but intense voice echoing lyrics in the background. Shifting between spitting rhymes and addressing his message to the people, Billz states what Reality Check Records, Inc. stands for. Billz cleverly spits into the mic:

"To make a difference for the slums, when they only want your funds

And advance loot, to upgrade clothes and tattered guns

Known to scatters funds where it doesn't help the nation

The rap game's turning into the Bush administration"

The mixtape then switches to the dark and eerie "Rise", which showcases the talents of Midnight, Young Ché, and Sean Billz. The trio aggressively exchange verses on one of the most intense tracks on the mixtape. Billz assertive voice pounds into your ear drums with lyrics like:

"Stand back and watch the days unfold

I changed the globe with my words, vision, and sight

If you can't understand my message, you ain't listening right"

The next track is the dynamically lyrical "Motivational Music" by Sean Billz, which shifts effortlessly between verse and hook. The uplifting beat fits perfectly with Billz positive rhymes:

"Can't another soul contest

Best advice just to confess, never claim that you're the best

Position yourself lower just puts pressure on your shoulders

To the point you want it over and give out on your dreams

Success, a seven letter word I know what it means"

Young Ché’s solo track, "A Story In Rewind", presents Ché’s talented storytelling skills despite being only 16 years old. The track is based off Nas’ "Rewind", in which he takes the same concept by telling a story from the ending back to the beginning. S. Billz, "What Type Of Artist Are You?", acquaints listeners with maybe the best message on the entire mixtape. Billz sets up the track in question format, as he relentlessly grills the music industry’s identity and challenges the industry to take a "reality check." Bars like,

"Do you grab the pen and paper when beginning to write

Or spend countless nights in booths making sure the beat is right"

[...]

"Do you treat your artists right and reward them for their loyalty

Or let greed take over and rob them of their royalties"

cleverly make the track a huge hit while maintaining Reality Check Records, Inc.'s musical agenda. The beat features a smooth blend of jazz and swing, which is a rarity in rap music these days. The hard hitting "Rap ’N Rhyme" follows next, with Young Ché giving a brief historical chronological of hip-hop’s past decade,

"And then in ’99 a rumor goes around about a man that’s still alive

That supposedly died in ’96, but talks about his death in ’95"

which transitions into Sean Billz announcing his "eleven favorite emcees of all-time with a modern day twist" (he unfolds his favorite emcees by albums instead of stating their names directly).

"Signs of Success" is Sean Billz next track which might possibly showcase his strongest flow on the entire album. Billz smoothly flows from bar to bar with little resistance, as he spits about the negative effects money can have on people, "It’s okay to make the money/ but don’t let it make you". "Back to the Basics & Basis" is another Billz song that once again features the swing sound that brings you back to the 1930’s. The old school sound is fitting for this track, as Billz’ soulful lyrics claim that the past is better then the present:

"I hate to say it, but what happened to this culture and art

It seems like since ‘98 it's been falling apart"

"The Story" is a great collaboration between Midnight and Young Ché, which uses great storytelling to rhyme over the heavy dissonant beat. Midnight’s special flow and voice can be compared to a young Kayne West. The song ends with a creative touch as Midnight’s lengthy acapella continues to tell the story.

The gracious sampled voice is a great addition on the hook of "When I Die", which is Midnight’s depressing tribute to death,

"All the people dying around me, starting to wonder if I’m next

Knowing that this world ain't nothing but a big test

I confess, I did wrong, and I’m scared to die alone"

The mixtape then proceeds to feature three S. Billz tracks including, "Dream Chasers", the Chicago street anthem "Chi-City (City Limits)", and the uplifting "A Purpose Driven Life". Charice makes her debut on the track "All I Need", which links strong vocals with an appealing guest performance by S. Billz, similar to a Beyonce/Jay-Z duet. The final song on the mixtape is a remix of the ever popular "In Memory Of" that was featured on the label’s first mixtape. This time, Charice joins Sean Billz and Young Ché to make another memorable tribute to those that have fallen:

"Nowadays days death ain't just a cousin of slumber

living to wonder our day of being six feet under"

The gloomy vocals of Charice on the hook, blend perfectly with Young Ché and S. Billz’ melancholy lyrics.

While mainstream rap continues to push heavily towards a materialistic and degrading message, Reality Check Records, Inc. begs to go in a different direction. "Personally, I think the world will come to accept and adopt the change and positive message that we are trying to push to the forefront. Some people have questioned our motive and ways of focusing on positive rap and said that we won’t make it very far since we are going against the grain of what is popular in today’s music terms. But when I hear this I don’t get discouraged, I use it as motivation to prove those people wrong in their thinking," Billz lectures. "In five years Reality Check Records, Inc. will be at the forefront of the music industry and a known figure for bringing a much needed change to the music scene." In a time where the music industry appears to be shouting (almost crying) out for something fresh, Reality Check Records, Inc.’s talented lineup appears to be the most logical solution. Doubt that? It hasn’t been the first time.

"Do you live life focused on what others think about you
Or gather motivation to succeed when they just doubt you"

-S. Billz ("What Type of Artist Are You?")

Realize Reality: Official Reality Check Records Mixtape, Chapter Two

Track Listings
1. Intro – Eazy
2. Inaugural Address – Sean Billz
3. Rise – Midnight ft. Young Ché & Sean Billz
4. Motivation Muzik – Sean Billz
5. A Story In Rewind – Young Ché
6. What Type Of Artist Are You? – Sean Billz
7. Rap ‘N Rhyme – Young Ché & Sean Billz
8. Signs Of Success – Sean Billz
9. Interlude – COO/CFO
10. Back To The Basics & Basis – Sean Billz
11. The Story – Midnight ft. Young Ché
12. When I Die – Midnight
13. Dream Chasers – Sean Billz
14. Chi-City (City Limits) – Sean Billz
15. A Purpose Driven Life – Sean Billz
16. All I Need – Charice ft. Sean Billz
17. In Memory Of…(Remix) – Sean Billz, Young Ché, & Charice
18. Outro – Eazy

Reality Check Records, Inc.’s MySpace page
www.myspace.com/realitycheckrecordsinc

A Rare Species - Excite Magazine Interview (Sean Billz)

2007-12-04T18:29:00.001-06:00

Sean Billz

Friday, September 14, 2007

A RARE SPECIES

At 19 years old Chris Thurston is a music mogul in the making. Thurston, who goes by the name Sean Billz as a rapper, is the founder and CEO of his very own indie record label Reality Check Records based in Chicago. Aside from rapping Billz adds the titles of songwriter, producer, and DJ under his belt (maintaining different aliases for each). But his music is not typical of the rap and hip-hop that you'd hear on the radio today. Billz and his record label bring something fresh to the music industry choosing to create socially conscious music that focuses on real issues rather than on superficial and materialistic themes that usually pervade hip-hop music. Excite Magazine gets real with Sean Billz as we discuss the reason behind his socially conscious music, his take on the hip-hop game today, the upcoming presidential election, and much more...

Interview by Shakeitta McCord

Excite Magazine: Your music is very different from the hip-hop/rap out today, how would you describe it?

Sean Billz: I would describe it as mainly being original in light of most of the hip-hop and rap that's out today. Most of it from my point of view is commercialized as far as money and record sales. I would describe my music as original and something different in the way that I try to focus on real issues that are going on in the world and bring it to the listener's ear as something that they can relate to. You know, it might not be happening to me but I know there's something going on with somebody else out there that might be listening to my music and it can affect them in a personal manner. That's basically how I would describe my music; it's original and personal, that could touch somebody heart.

EM: What made you want to perform this type of music?

S. Billz: Mainly what started that was really finding myself as an artist because at that time when I started writing I was kind of writing in the common trend of what was popular, so the stuff I was writing then was talking about guns and violence and women. It was actually my mom, she read my notebook, my book of rhymes, and she actually pointed out to me, she sat me down and talked to me on a personal level and was like "I know this is not you, this is not how I raised you." That was something I took to heart. I took some time and sat down and really read what I was writing and it wasn't me. So, I came to look at that and say this is not who I want to be, so it was all about finding myself. And then write music that I think everybody would want to listen to. Because I know I would listen to music in the car with my mom and there would be some tracks that I would have to skip through. I wanted to write music that I didn't have to skip through any tracks, I could just play the whole thing and it wouldn't offend anybody.

EM: How did you get started in music?

S. Billz: I got started in 2003 when I was about 16. Actually, me and my best friend (he was a rapper as well) we started writing together; we were working on a project actually. He got killed so I kind of kept on, instead of stopping right there and saying, okay this is it since he passed away. I kept going because I felt like in his memory since we started together I wanted to keep pursuing it. I got more into music as far as the producing aspect of it and the Djing aspect of it. And just in light of everything that was going on I wanted to start a record label that was different from the rest, that had a different way of thinking. That's what led me to start Reality Check Records.

EM: In several of your songs you talk about not caring about the money or the fame. As someone in the music business, is that not something that you want?

S. Billz: I can say it's not my top priority. Money is an important aspect as far as the music business but just for me on an artistic level it's not my top priority. I put many other things above the money, or the fame, or the limelight. Me as an artist, if it comes, it comes, and I'll accept it; but if not, that's not my main agenda. To bring a difference, that's really my main focus, to bring a difference for myself and then for the artists that come after me so they don't have to go through much of the stuff that we go through now in the hip-hop community.

EM: Do you believe that doing music with a message will amass the popularity that current rap about material things has?

S. Billz: I believe that it can. I believe that there's a time for everything. Right now it might be the commercial music. Back in the day it used to be the gansta rap; the more hardcore rap that was the trend. But I think the more positive conscious rap will get to the mainstream level; it's just the amount of people catching on to it and not wanting to follow the trend. I think that's a big thing missing in music, is artists that are not afraid to be themselves and go against what's popular. And I think that once artists and even fans themselves know what music they want to listen to and not what music they want to buy just because it's hot right now, it's going to push more socially conscious rappers to the forefront. Now there are rappers that are doing it [socially conscious music] it's just going to take more of us to keep pushing that idea.

EM: Have you ever experienced any opposition to the things you say in your songs?

S. Billz: Since I started I haven't run into any opposition. I think that's mainly because it's something different. I'm talking about something that they can relate to instead of rejecting and saying, I don't want to hear this rapper talking about guns and money. He's talking about the same thing this rapper over here is talking about.

EM: Even with your focus on the message of the song, how important is a good beat for you?

S. Billz: That's honestly the first thing that I listen to when I hear a song. If you have a good beat it's going to catch the listener. It's going to draw them to listen on and hopefully the lyrics will grab them in the same way that the beat has. But I think that having a good beat is very vital to go along with the lyrics. They have to go hand in hand.

EM: What sort of music do you listen to and which artists do you like?

S. Billz: I'm a big Chicago rapper fan so right now I'm listening to the new Common Finding Forever. I've been listening to that all week. I'm still listening to Lupe Fiasco's record. I'm a big fan of old school rap, rap from the 90's, and some rap from the 80's. That's what catches my ear because I don't listen to a lot what's out nowadays, what's played on the radio, what's hot. I mean, I might go through it being a dj but I'd say mainly 90's rap: Reasonable Doubt (Jay-Z), Illmatic (Nas), Ready to Die (Notorious B.I.G) because those were all albums that influenced me.

EM: Who are your musical influences outside of Hip-hop music?

S. Billz: I listen to a lot of soul music from back in the day Motown, a lot of R&B, a lot of Jazz. I am highly influenced by Jazz like Roy Ayers; I listen to him a lot. Marvin Gaye. Beyonce is actually a big influence. I really like her work ethic and her drive. She's able to do a lot of things not just in music but she has the movies and endorsements. She's one of the people that I can see is really doing for herself and is really driven. I kind of look at people like that, people going out making a name for themselves.

EM: Your music has a political/social message, what's your take on the upcoming presidential election? Who are you pulling for?

S. Billz: I've been watching the political debates and right now my vote would have to go to Barack Obama. It's still early though, you know; I'm watching him very closely.

EM: Do you think that he actually has a chance of winning the election?

S. Billz: Yeah, I think that he has a good chance of winning it. He's a very good speaker. He knows what he wants to do. He has a plan, and I think that's the biggest thing that people are looking for, a president who has a plan, that knows what they want to do coming in. I think that he has a very good plan and as long as he sticks with that, I think he has a great chance of winning.

Check out Sean Billz's MySpace page and listen to his music www.myspace.com/seanbillz