One Block Radius

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One Block Radius
Origin Chico, California, USA
Genre(s) Hip hop, Pop, Rap, Soul
Years active 2004–present
Label(s) Avatar Records
Low Post Records
Associated acts Scapegoat Wax
Website http://www.oneblockradius.com/
Members
Marty James
MDA
Z-Man

One Block Radius is an alternative hip hop group made up of Marty James (vocals, raps, production), MDA (vocals, turntables), and emcee Z-Man (a Hieroglyphics associated rapper). Both Marty James and MDA were part of the group Scapegoat Wax. One Block Radius was formed in late 2003. They have toured and done shows with Hiero, Living Legends, Matisyahu, De La Soul, Trick Daddy, Pigeon John, Aceyalone and more.

One Block Radius represents a unique musical direction, with music blending pop and hip-hop sensibilities, with strong melodies and pop refrains mixed with rapping and hip-hop production. Their lyrics tend to focus on partying and everyday life, avoiding the aggressive themes of gangsta rap or the more socially conscious themes of other alternative rappers.

In 2005, One Block Radius released their debut album Long Story Short to critical acclaim. It featured a diverse selection of songs ranging from pure pop to straight-up hip-hop. The following year they released a follow-up in the form of a mixtape CD called Cut Some Static. Cut Some Static was an album-length compilation of previously unreleased tracks, but was not released as a proper album. It was not sold at retail, came packaged with home-computer printed labels, and featured members of the band introducing tracks, to keep the underground mixtape feel. Musically, it also featured a grittier, more rap-oriented sound, and more explicit lyrics.

Marty James was featured on the hook of The Federation's 2006 west coast club anthem "I Wear My Stunna Glasses at Night". Since that tim he has also become an accomplished writer and producer having worked with JR Rotem, E-40, Sean Kingston, Baby Bash, Paula Deanda, Diane Warren, Rick Rock, Lil Jon, The Grouch, DJ Felli Fel, Jessi Malay, Mozella, Laze&Royal, The Stooie Brothers and more. In 2007 he co-wrote "What Is It" by Baby Bash ft. Sean Kingston.

In May 2008 One Block Radius released the single "You Got Me" on Property Music Group (Marty James own label). In late May 2008 One Block Radius signed with Mercury/Island/Def Jam.

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[edit] Discography

Albums

  • Long Story Short 2005
  1. "Look Out Below"
  2. "Loud and Clear"
  3. "Black Mercedes"
  4. "Up in the Hills"
  5. "I Like Him"
  6. "Make Believe"
  7. "Purple and Orange"
  8. "Wake Up Tomorrow"
  9. "Alone"
  10. "World on Fire"
  11. "Learn the Words"
  12. "Not Enuff"
  13. "Excuse Me"
  14. "Smokescreen"
  15. "Missin' Sumthin'"
  16. "Champion"
  • Cut Some Static (Original Mixtape) 2006 Low Post Records
  1. "Price Is Wrong"
  2. "Mama's Heart"
  3. "Keep Lookin Out"
  4. "I Come From C-A"
  5. "One For The Hustle"
  6. "Frogg City"
  7. "The Bad Game"
  8. "Re-Learn The Words"
  9. "Got What You Want"
  10. "More Loud And Clear"
  11. "Whatever Way The Wind Blows"
  12. "Shut It Down"
  13. "On The Run"
  14. "Which Way To The Beach"
  15. "Gusto"
  16. "That We Can Do"

[edit] External links