The 57th Dynasty

The 57th Dynasty
Also known as The Boro 6 Kids
The Dynasty
Brixton's Finest
Fas Fwd Allstars
Origin Brixton, London, United Kingdom
Genres Hip hop, ragga, grime, jazz rap, alternative hip hop, british hip hop, folk rap
Years active 1997–present
Labels Fas Fwd Entertainments
Associated acts Estelle, Jay Z, Moorish Delta 7, Roots Manuva, Skinnyman, The Roots, Wutang Clan
Members Marcus "Paradise" Dawes
Charlie "Parker" Bucknall

The 57th Dynasty (often styled as 57 Dynasty) is a British hip hop group hailing from Brixton, London.

The band was active from 1997 to 2003 and reformed in 2014 by its two founding members, Charlie "Parker" Bucknall and Marcus "Paradise" Dawes. The eight-man collective, described by Rago Magazine as a "super group," won Best UK Hip Hop Act at the UK Hip Hop Awards and was nominated for both MOBO and Urban Music Awards.[1][2][3][4] Through their indie imprint, FAS FWD Entertainments, the group independently manufactured, produced and distributed a vast catalog of music that includes one mixtape, two studio albums and several EPs, dubplates, and singles.[5] Often touted as the UK's Wu-Tang Clan, the group have collaborated on recordings and live shows with a wide variety of artists in many musical genres.[6] The 57th Dynasty's original musical style was a mixture of Hip hop, Bashment, Jungle, Jazz and Spoken word, components commonly associated with an early form of Grime.[7][8]

The 57th Dynasty were among the vanguard of the British urban music movement of acts that became popular internationally during the early to mid-2000s. At first noted for their infamous hometown of Brixton as much as for their music, the group is now identified with the youthful and rebellious countercultures of hip hop and grime. The group toured both nationally and internationally alongside Eminem, Outkast, DMX, The Roots, Wu-Tang, Common, The Lox, Sean Paul, D12, The Liks, Eve, Jurassic 5, Slum Village, Roni Size, Roots Manuva, Rodney P, Ty, Blak Twang, Klashnekoff, Mark B & Blade and more. NME once described the group's live performance as "a holy chaos with hot-lead hip-hop at its core."[9]

The 57th Dynasty first gained acclaim with their independent debut album The Spoken Word. With no major label backing, the group sold CDs on street corners and out of their cars. Recognised as a landmark album, its singles "Lil Bro," "Love of Hip Hop," "Still I Rise," and "Boro 6" were mainstays on underground pirate radio stations.[10][11] But it wasn't until BBC Radio 1 DJ Tim Westwood began championing their music that the group catapulted into a truly national spotlight, however.[12] Within months of the album's release, John Knight, MD of Southern Record Distributors (SRD) personally invited The 57th Dynasty to join SRD's roster and signed FAS FWD Entertainments to a distribution contract at the behest of HMV executives.[3][13][14] "Buyers at chain retailers began calling for stock [of the album] even before a distribution deal through London-based SRD was secured" wrote Billboard in its spotlight feature entitled "Brit Rap – Indies Rule Britannia When It Comes To Breaking Rappers."[3] FAS FWD Entertainments would go on to notably release Wu-Tang affiliate Shyheim through its Units Distribution label as well as Moorish Delta and Immortal Technique.

Following the success of The Spoken Word, and with the emergence of grime music, The 57th Dynasty's second album Boro 6 Vol. 2 – A Dynasty Truly Like No Other served as a showcase platform for the talents of other British artists and styles of music. The collaboration-rich album reached high popularity with its lead single, "Break Free" featuring then-unsigned R&B singer, Estelle.[15] Billboard praised the track for "going against the grain of what's currently popular in terms of subject matter."[15] The 57th Dynasty became the first UK Hip Hop group to be featured in The Source Magazine.[16] The group was highly influential in shaping the landscape of British urban music, not simply for rivaling the majors but for sitting alongside and influencing policy makers and representatives from media companies.[14][17] Group member Oshin (Da Nomad) extensively showcased UK talent through his nominated Fab 5 Freddy-esque film series, Independent Hype.[18][19][20] At the height of their popularity, the group faced a wave of backlash from Anglo-centric blogs and forums, which sought to discredit the group as sounding too American as a result of lead vocalist Paradise having spent 18 years living stateside.[14][21][22][23] The band's final album together, The DIY Ethic was never released. Band member 50:50 (Carl Fearon) died in 2008.[24][25] In 2009, The 57th Dynasty were included as pioneers in HOMEGROWN! The Story of UK HIP-HOP Exhibition at Urbis, Manchester. Group members Paradise (now known as WhoIsParadise), Charlie Parker, Oshin and Shineye remain active within the music industry.

History

1996 – 1998: FasFwd Entertainments

Marcus "Paradise" Dawes returned to the UK after spending 18 years in the United States and was introduced by neo-soul singer Stewy "Big" Love to producer/label owner Charlie Parker. This introduction would blossom into the artistic outlet that eventually became The 57th Dynasty.[26][27] Paradise honed his style of "prison poetry" over Parker's pensive soundscapes creating the singles "M.O.N.E.Y.," "Et Tu," "Boomerang" and "Crown Jewels."[26] The successful rapper/producer combo performed live throughout the UK and Europe including regular radio appearances on Choice FM's Friday Night Flavas, hosted by DJ 279.[28] The duo had created a consistent buzz and following for themselves with chart successes and rave reviews.[29][30][31][32] Parker's home in Brixton served as label headquarters as well as an open-door-policy – collaborative artist studio for rappers, reggae artists, singers, and musicians. Mr. Green (Baby Hulk), friends with Bionic of London Posse, was a regular artist in residence and the first to be released on Parker's independent FAS FWD record label.[33] Paradise sought to form a supergroup by enlisting rappers from the local Brixton area. Between 1996 and 1999, the highest calibre of artists were chosen to assemble The FAS FWD ALL-STARS.[26] Their official release No Way came in 1997 on the double AA-side entitled "M.O.N.E.Y. / No Way" and featured Stretch Lexus, Big Love, Thunda Storm, Paradise, Felony, and Mr. Green produced by Charlie Parker (four:four).[26][34] Blues & Soul wrote "Both tracks possess an incredible stamp of authenticity as producer Four: Four turns up the beats.. (Rating: 8)"[35] Trace Magazine hip hop writer, Disorda charted the debut at number 9 and included it on his compilation album, UK Hustlerz Volume 3.[36][37] The FAS FWD ALL-STARS performed regularly at local Lambeth Country Show, Brockwell Park, and at numerous hip hop showcases and venues across London including Subterania, Jonzi D's Apricot Jam, DJ 279's Flava of Da Month at Borderline, and Mudlumz. The youngest members of Paradise's ensemble formed Juvenile Ruckasz (Lil Monsta, Dark Troopa, 50:50) and were showcased on dubplate specials for Jamaica's Stone Love and King Addis Sound Systems. When Mr. Green brought Bristol rapper Oshin (Da Nomad) to the FAS FWD studio, the eight piece crew was completed.[27][38]

The name 57th Dynasty came about when the artists decided the door number of the famed headquarters "57" should replace "FAS FWD"—allowing for a clear distinction between the record label and the band—and "ALL-STARS" should be replaced with "Dynasty" (meaning: a succession of leaders in a given field).[38] The group's triangular logo was created by Paradise, and Oshin was instrumental in circulating the group's music outside of London with record sales of their debut mixtape, Boro 6 (the name given to Brixton by Paradise who likened the area to the five boroughs of New York City).[27]

1999 – 2001: The Spoken Word

The Spoken Word album was recorded primarily at Milos Studios, Hoxton Square. The highly acclaimed single, "Lil Bro", a duet between Paradise and thirteen-year-old Lil Monsta was the final track recorded – in one take, and the first track released.[39] The group's sold-out album launch party at famed Subterania, Ladbroke Grove included notable attendees such as New York's Hot 97 FM DJ and radio personality, Mister Cee, London Hip Hop Festival founder, Kentake Chinyelu-Hope, Kiss FM DJ's Big Ted & Shortee Blitz, DJ 279 and various members of Bury Crew/Mudlumz. The 57th Dynasty launched their merchandise imprint, Double F Paraphernalia, that same night, selling FAS FWD Entertainments T-shirts and 57th Dynasty medallions alongside limited edition vinyl singles, EPs, LPs and CDs.[40] After reaching a distribution deal with SRD in 1999, The 57th Dynasty shot their first independent music video, "Love of Hip Hop." Produced and directed by Merlin Massara, the video would mark another UK milestone being quickly picked up by MTV Europe and broadcast weekly, becoming the most requested video on Yo! MTV Raps before the newly formed MTV Base takeover.[41] A quote from The Juvenile Ruckasz sums up their recollection of the first independent video shoot, shot in the hoods of the UK:

“ That's the first video we've recorded – shot on the hottest day of the summer, August, 1999. [Ya] get me? Down Normandy Road, in [the] Myattsfield area. All the kids from the estates came out to watch what was going on, all the people that [were] from the area as well. There was nuff people out there. It was live, but it was a good experience as well cause... that was the first time that I've been on proper camera and been in the camera so that was a good experience.[40] ”

The 57th Dynasty starred in Vol.1 and Vol.2 of famed hip hop clothing outlet, Dark 'n' Cold's UK Hip Hop Untapped video series which documented an emerging UK music scene.[42] In 1999, lead rapper, Paradise recorded a four-part advert for Viacom's, VH1 Music First, reaching a new audience and demographic for the group.[32] Their popularity continued to grow with live performances on Nickelodeon and the 60,000 plus audience at London's millennium night celebrations along the River Thames minutes before London's first major fireworks display. In 2000, members of the group landed cameo appearances in Fruit Salad Films' BIFA nominated, South West 9 and their song, "Pharaoh Intellect" was added to the Stereo MCs' mix album, DJ-Kicks: Stereo MCs.[43][44] The 57th Dynasty's motto is "There would be no concept of what far is, were it not for those willing to go to the extreme."[45] Led by the tech-savvy, progressive partnership of Charlie and Paradise, the group embraced new technologies producing enhanced CDs and releasing digital downloads three years before the birth of the iTunes Music Store in 2003. Newly formed online record company, Peoplesound.com licensed "Lil Bro" to their digital catalogue and made it freely available online via their website.[46] "Lil Bro" received over 20,000 downloads, prompting the company's A&R manager, Dave VJ to comment "57th Dynasty are really big on the site and have what it takes to make it in the US."[47] The Dynasty began touring internationally: Sweden (Stockholm), Finland (Helsinki, Tampere, Jyväskylä), Denmark (Copenhagen), Italy (Bologna, Milan, Turin), Belgium (Brussels), and France (Nice). At home, they featured, performed and collaborated with other acts, and played festivals and Notting Hill Carnival.

2002 – 2003: Boro 6 Vol. 2 – A Dynasty Truly Like No Other

In 2002, The 57th Dynasty released their follow-up album, Boro 6 Vol. 2 – A Dynasty Truly Like No Other. Executively produced by Charlie "Parker" Bucknall and Marcus "Paradise" Dawes, it sold better than their previous effort. The album's polished production stood in contrast to their first release, and the industry took notice of the group's progression. The album heavily featured new and up-coming talent alongside established artists. Singer Estelle, and UK rappers MCD, Ace, Funky DL, Bury Crew, Scor-zay-zee (Out Da Ville), Swaybe Lee, Cerose (Black Rhino), Titan Sounds affiliates, Extremist and DJ IQ feature on the album. Like its predecessor, Boro 6 Vol. 2 – A Dynasty Truly Like No Other earned the group high accolades and acclaim. The album delivered on a unique hi-bred production value dubbed "mix n blend," a fusion of Hip hop, Reggae and Jazz. Noteworthy hits from this album included "Brethren and Sistren" "Rough Life" "If" "Hooligans" "Ghetto Gold" "Break Free" and "Hold Strong," the latter two both featuring Estelle. There is a noted level of maturity in the contributions from group members, including, The Juvenile Ruskasz. Lil Monsta's solo performance on "If", 50:50's stellar "Hold Strong" and Dark Troopa's lead placement on "Break Free" are worthy contributions to what Britishblackmusic.com called an intelligent, hard, dark, mellow, sweet, upbeat album.[48] In 2002, Channel U heads Charlie and Darren Platt headhunted the group soliciting new material for the station to give it a definitive edge over new rival MTV Base.[49][50] DJ Tim Westwood added "Hooligans" to his BBC Radio 1 playlist and his UK Hip Hop 2002, Vol.1 album.[51] In August 2002, BBC Radio launched the new black music digital radio station, 1xtra.[52] Playing a selection of the best contemporary black music, the occasion was marked with an exclusive dubplate by the 57th Dynasty.[53] Labels such as Def Jam UK, Mercury Records, Polydor and V2 Records were said to be interested in signing the group. Charlie Parker flew to NY to negotiate a deal around this time. By 2003, the popularity of "urban" music was at an unprecedented high in the UK as rapping/singing Garage pop groups such as So Solid and Big Brovaz were being signed to majors and achieving chart success.[54][55] In this same year, home secretary, David Blunkett and culture minister, Kim Howells accused [rappers] of glorifying the thug life and turning guns into fashion accessories.[56][57] A stark contrast to the commercially successful pop rap groups of the time, The Wessex Scene describes The 57th Dynasty's brand of music as harsh realities of a contemporary upbringing.[58] With a reputation for being tied to violence and gang culture, the political and public glare meant the group remained unsigned.

In 2003, The 57th Dynasty were nominated for Best Hip Hop Act at the Urban Music Awards. The group snubbed the high profile ceremony held at Hammersmith Palais pulling a no show.[4] Group members worked on individual projects and collaborated heavily with other artists, including Charlie Parker's high profile contribution to Paper Chasers, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival.[59][60][61] However, the album that was said to be in the works, DIY Ethic did not materialise and was postponed indefinitely as relationships between group members deteriorated.[48] In August 2007, Britishhiphop.co.uk reported "The unofficial statement of their rumoured break up, cites creative in-differences, internal conflict, monetary grievances and lack of industry support as reasons for the split. All members maintain that they will continue to produce music either solely independent or with other UK and US affiliates."[62]

Members

The original members of The 57th Dynasty were rappers Michael Baiden (Lil Monsta), Carl Byron Fitzroy Fearon (50:50) and Gilbert Baiden (Dark Troopa) (collectively known as Juvanile Ruckasz and later, Da Mans Dem), Dennis Baiden (Thunda Storm), Marcus "Paradise" Dawes (now known as WhoIsParadise), and Lawrence J. Oshin (Oshin). In-house music producers Charlie Bucknall (Charlie Parker) and Steven Edwards (Shineye) under the production moniker, Watch No Face productions completed the eight-man collective.

Band line-up

Current members

Former members

Guest members

Feud with Jay Z

In 1999, Jay Z and Dame Dash were approached by Paradise at the 1999 MOBO Awards ceremony where both parties were nominated for awards. While 57th Dynasty members vacated their box seats in favour of networking and promoting with industry executives on the main floor of the auditorium, Paradise took seat at Dame and Jay's reserved table and presented the pair with CDs for sale.[16] The conversation that ensued revolved around questions from the duo about the name 57th Dynasty and its meaning. Paradise gave the pair a CD and continued on towards Radio 1 DJ Tim Westwood, who sat in security isolation as he had recently been shot in Brixton after performing at the Lambeth Country Show.[63] In December of that same year, Jay Z released Vol. 3... Life and Times of S. Carter. On the song, Pop 4 Roc, featuring Beanie Sigel, Memphis Bleek and Amil, Jay Z says "You are about to witness a dynasty like no other."[64] A statement many felt was directed at The 57th Dynasty. The streets and internet buzzed at the prospect of an international rivalry. During a scheduled radio interview in the Old Truman Brewery, Brick Lane, The Homegrown Consortium made the argument for retaliation. Paradise freestyled an on-air diss directed at Jay Z and later recorded "Coincidences" with producer, Shineye. Although performed live, the track was never released in favour of promoting the group's overall momentum and successes rather than fuel the already growing public perception that The 57th Dynasty were merely thugs and gangsters or, as Westwood stated, "living that street life".[65]

In 2000, Jay Z released The Dynasty: Roc La Familia further fraying tempers that he stole the "Dynasty" concept. Derek. A. Bardowell of The Source wrote, "Brixton-based rap collective 57th Dynasty is not in this business to make people feel comfortable. Just ask Jay-Z," he also noted that "British rap is picking up momentum in the States,"[16] in his article which welcomed The 57th Dynasty as the first British rap/ hip hop group to feature in the publication. File:The 57th Dynasty, Source magazine.jpg

In January 2003, reports surfaced across the net connecting The 57th Dynasty to both the Westwood shooting and Dame Dash's alleged beating in Les Halles, Paris, including the AllHipHop.com headline: Damon Dash Beat Down Was Ordered.[66][67] Scandinavian hip hop magazine, Kingsize, reported "...57th Dynasty from Brixton must have been pissed off when Jay-Z and Roc-A-Fella released The Dynasty: Roc La Familia, and argued that the concept belonged to them."[68] The article goes on to say "Tim Westwood was according to rumors shot and injured a few years back because he would not support the 57th Dynasty."

Controversies

The 57th Dynasty have had several controversies throughout their career. Clashes with promoters, DJs, bouncers and highly publicised feuds with fellow artists have beset the group from Brixton often accused of being too pro-black in message.

The Roots

In 1999, Black Thought of the legendary Roots met The 57th Dynasty for the first time at Milos Studios whilst the group recorded their debut album, The Spoken Word. The meeting was cordial and Tariq (Black Thought) even took pictures with Dynasty members. Later that year, both groups would play a number of UK Hip hop concerts together including Glastonbury and Brixton Academy.[69] At Glastonbury, Questlove challenged Lil Monsta about the similarities of the two groups names. Unbeknown to anyone at the time, Questlove claimed to go by a moniker other than The Roots. On "Ain't Sayin' Nothin' New" (featuring Dice Raw) from their fourth studio album, Things Fall Apart, Black Thought of The Roots is heard rapping "I represent the legendary Fifth Dynasty crew".[70] The two groups met again at Brixton Academy for Hip hop Phenomenon '99, a line-up that included Jurassic 5, Slum Village, DJ Cash Money, Kool Keith and more. DJ Noize and Supernatural, DJ Cash Money and The 57th Dynasty performed in the venue's foyer, a setting the later were not pleased with.[69] The makeshift stage was not stable enough to support the weight of six bouncing mcs, so the 57th Dynasty's vinyl instrumentals continuously jumped as the turntables jerked under the group's animated performance. Despite frustrations and numerous restarts, ukhh.com reported They've got a good live energy.[71] Not happy with either the location or the bandstand, the group entered the main hall and stormed the mainstage. Performing at the time were The Roots. Paradise took the mic from Black Thought and the other 57th Dynasty mcs charged onto the stage. The Roots exited without incident as The 57th Dynasty performed "Boro 6".

Nickelodeon

On 29 May 1999, The 57th Dynasty appeared on Nickelodeon UK Live Studio Music Performances. Due to the child friendly nature of the channel, the group performed "Lil Bro" before a live studio audience. After the performance, cast and crew members argued about the nature of the song's controversial lyrics. One crew member commented that the show might as well have the far-right British National Party on the following week.

Terrorism

In September 2006, Gilbert Baiden (Dark Troopa) was pictured on the front page of the South London Press as a terror suspect, the headline read "Why Young Men Are Turning To Terror".[72] Gilbert's high profile arrest was covered by local, national and international press.[73] The Mirror reported that [the] arrests reflect an increasing number of young British blacks who grew up in Christian families but have recently converted to the Muslim faith.[74] The article goes on to say, [anti-terrorist police] were "very confident" there will be charges for serious terrorism offences.[74] Although Scotland Yard applied to magistrates to extend the time they can keep the suspects in custody for questioning, 25-year-old Gilbert was one of two men released without charge according to the Streatham Life.[75][76] Gilbert's family which includes four brothers, two of whom are also members of the 57th Dynasty and another, an affiliate artist − protested Gilbert's innocence alongside friends and loved ones insisting the arrest to be just another blundered Forest Gate − the ill-fated £2.2million police operation, which involved more than 250 officers resulting in the wrongful raid and shooting of brothers Abdul Kahar and Abul Koyair by anti-terrorist police.[77][76][72][75]

Crime reporter, Ben Ashford of The South London Press wrote that impressionable black youngsters are being preyed on by ruthless terror masterminds, hell bent on future 7/7-style atrocities, according to one of South London's leading Muslims, Toaha Qureshi.[72] The report goes on to name Gilbert as a British citizen who converted to Islam four years ago and worshipped at South London mosques.[72] The Daily Mail obtained information that the arrested men, aged from 17 to 48, were held after months of surveillance by Scotland Yard and MI5.[78] The arrests coincide with the rise in so-called Muslim street gangs, including the Muslimeen and Muslim Boys (an off-shoot of PDC).[72][79] Gilbert was released without charge four days after his arrest following Toaha Qureshi's statements that "This family have good standing in the community and [the Baiden brothers] seem to be decent, ambitious young men, and they deny any involvement in terrorism.[72]

Awards and nominations

YEAR AWARDS CATEGORY RESULT
1999 MOBO Best Hip Hop Act Nominated
2000 UK Hip Hop Awards Best UK Hip Hop Act Winner
2003 Urban Music Awards Best Hip Hop Act Nominated

Concerts and tour chronology

  • October 1998 − 10,000 Man March @ Trafalgar Square
  • March 1999 − Z Bar, Brixton
  • March 1999 − Blue Mountain Club, Bristol
  • March 1999 − Thekla, Bristol
  • March 1999 − Malcolm X Centre, Bristol
  • March 1999 − Capital Club, London
  • March 1999 − The Ritzy, Brixton
  • April 1999 − The Plug, Stockwell
  • April 1999 − London College of Music, Ealing
  • May 1999 − Subterania, London
  • May 1999 − Coliseum, Coventry
  • May 1999 − Flava of the Month @ Subterania [Spoken Word Album Launch]
  • May 1999 − The Loughborough Junction, Brixton
  • May 1999 − Club Adestra, Wolverhampton
  • June 1999 − On Route @ Imperial Gardens
  • June 1999 − Hip Hop Phenomenon '99 @ Brixton Academy
  • June 1999 − Dance Tent @ Glastonbury Festival
  • July 1999 − St. Paul's Carnival, Bristol
  • July 1999 − Lambeth Country Show
  • July 1999 − Shepherds Bush Empire
  • July 1999 − Dingwalls, Camden
  • July 1999 − Liquid, Wandsworth
  • July 1999 − Leyton Festival
  • July 1999 − Youth Slam @ Imani Centre, Manchester
  • July 1999 − Sheffield
  • August 1999 − Brixton Carnival
  • August 1999 − Fozzies, Birmingham
  • August 1999 − Paris-London Connexion @ WKD, Camden
  • August 1999 − Homegrown Freestyle Float @ Notting Hill Carnival
  • September 1999 − Band on the Wall, Manchester
  • October 1999 − Wolverhampton University
  • October 1999 − Fabric, London (Opening Night)
  • December 1999 − Big Time @ River Thames, Waterloo
  • July 2000 − Dekefex @ Mass, St Matthew's Church, Brixton
  • August 2000 − V Festival
  • September 2000 − Stratford Rex
  • April 2001 − Diesel U-Music Awards @ Shepherds Bush Empire
  • May 2001 − Dekefex @ Mass, St Matthew's Church, Brixton
  • May 2001 − Rough & Ready B-Ball Tournament @ Brixton Rec
  • May 2001 − UMS (Press Launch) @ Red Cube Bar, Leicester Sq.
  • June 2001 − London Hip Hop Festival @ Ocean, Hackney
  • June 2001 − UMS @ The Drum, Birmingham
  • June 2001 − Astoria
  • August 2001 − Madame JoJo's
  • February 2002 − Manchester Academy 3, Manchester
  • March 2002 − Mass, St Matthew's Church, Brixton
  • May 2002 − Oval House Theatre
  • November 2002 − 1xtra Elements of Hip hop – @ SE One London
  • January 2003 − Injustice Screening @ White Post Lane, Hackney
  • May 2003 − Dekefex @ Mass, St Matthew's Church, Brixton

In addition to the above tour information, The 57th Dynasty also performed at Rise Festival, Love Music Hate Racism, Ten Rooms, Club Ezekiel, Peckham, Temple (Westwood), Z Bar, Brixton (Cappadonna show)

Associated acts

In bold, the act(s) which MTV.com classify as similar to The 57th Dynasty.

Discography

Studio albums

  • The Spoken Word (1999)
  • Boro 6 Vol. 2 – A Dynasty Truly Like No Other (2002)
  • The DIY Ethic (unreleased)

Compilation albums

  • DJ-Kicks: Stereo MCs (1999)
  • Free Mumia Abu-Jamal (2000)
  • UK Hip Hop Awards (2001)
  • A Wireless Nation Vol. 1: The 'Letter to Tony Blair' (2002)
  • Peoplesound & HHC Presents: Straight From The Underground
  • Westwood: UK Hip Hop 2002 Vol. 1 (2002)

EPs

  • The Spoken Word EP (1999)

Singles

  • Boro 6 / Lil Bro (1999)
  • Love Of Hip Hop (1999)
  • Return To Boro 6 / Dirty South (2000)
  • Ghetto Gold / Hold Strong (2000) featuring Estelle
  • Break Free (2002) featuring Estelle

Mixtapes

  • Boro 6

Dubplates

Filmography

References

  1. ↑ Late (9 February 2005). "INDEPENDENT HYPE DVD'S". Rago Magazine. Retrieved 12 June 2014. the Brixton super group 57th Dynasty
  2. ↑ "UK Hip Hop Awards 2001". britishhiphop.co.uk. Retrieved 24 May 2014.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 Kwaku (4 December 1999). "Brit Rap: Indies Rule Britannia When It Comes To Breaking Rappers". Billboard 111 (49): 54. ISSN 0006-2510. Retrieved 3 June 2014.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 Abdrakhmanova, Aizhan (2011). "Past winners 2003: Best HipHop Act Sponsored by HipHop Connection". urbanmusicawards.net.
  5. ↑ "Fas Fwd Entertainments Ltd.". Discogs.com. Retrieved 6 June 2014.
  6. ↑ Fadele, Dele (7 March 2001). "Britrap saviours from Brixton prepare to go overground...". NME. Retrieved 5 June 2014. Brixton's 57th Dynasty step into the arena to erase, once and for all, any comparison with Staten Island's Wu-Tang Clan.
  7. ↑ "Fas Fwd – The Label". Label Bio. Fas Fwd Ents. 1998. rehearse spoken word skills and develop production drawing on a history of Jazz, Sound System and Hip hop
  8. ↑ Marc Dauncey (8 August 2012). "Grime – the UK's underground rap scene". Mutant Technology. Retrieved 31 May 2014. Grime is a direct descendent of jungle – jungle MCing comes from a much earlier UK reggae scene known as fast chat
  9. ↑ "Reviews: London Camden Dingwalls They ain't nothin' to f*** with...". NME. 18 November 1999. Retrieved 1 June 2014.
  10. ↑ Kinetic (23 January 1999). "Code of the Streets – 5 Phat Flavaz". Echoes. p. 10. their forthcoming album's gonna be a British landmark
  11. ↑ Snaith (8 June 1999). PureJam Magazine. The Spoken Word is recognised as a landmark album Missing or empty |title= (help);
  12. ↑ Griffiths, Alex (13–26 March 1999). "Hiphop Review: In The Box". DJ Mag (35). p. 72. You ain't no DJ if you ain't playing this!
  13. ↑ Davis, Sarah; Laing, Dave (2006). The Guerilla Guide to the Music Business (2. ed.). New York, NY: Continuum International. p. 250. ISBN 0826417914. Retrieved 28 May 2014. Southern Record Distribution (SRD), one of the UK's biggest independent distributors.
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 14.2 "Low-Life : UK Hip Hop Story : 57th Dynasty Interview". UKHH.com. pp. 1–2. Retrieved 24 May 2014.
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 Kwaku (9 February 2002). "Young, Gifted, and Dead". Billboard 114 (6): 27. ISSN 0006-2510. Retrieved 3 June 2014.
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 16.2 Bardowell, Derek A. (March 2003). "57th Dynasty – Affirmative Action". The Source (162) (The NorthStar Group). p. 80.
  17. ↑ "Media Conference 98". Blacknet.co.uk. SOAS, University: Blacknet UK. 25 October 1998. Retrieved 26 May 2014.
  18. ↑ "The Screen Nation Film & Television Awards". Britishhiphop.com. 6 November 2005. Retrieved 4 June 2014. With the soon-to-be-released Vol.3, Street Akademiks, Oshin is riding high on the critical acclaim waves. His nomination in the category of Independent Prodctn: Street TV follows his acknowledgement from the British Film Archives, and his screening at the National Black Film Maker's Festival.
  19. ↑ Tricksta (October 2003). "INDEPENDENT HYPE DVD'S". RagoMagazine.com. Rago Magazine. Retrieved 26 May 2014.
  20. ↑ Lady Zimma; Miss Mention. "Interview with 57th Dynasty". Musicdish.com. Retrieved 6 June 2014. The documentary/movie is called "Independent Hype" and there is no release date for it as yet, but rest assured it will be all about the talent on the UK scene.
  21. ↑ "D. Tonk & Paradise". britishhiphop.co.uk. 2002. Unfortunately Paradise isn't one of the 57th Dynasty members who spits fully with his own accent, instead we are treated to a comedy cross Atlantic inflection which only disappears when he makes a deliberate point of pronouncing a like in a UK way and this hypocrisy really lets him down
  22. ↑ "Shoutbox: The 57th Dynasty". Last.fm. 2008–2009. Retrieved 8 June 2014.
  23. ↑ "Word Lab: British hip-hop, rejecting pale imitations of the Yank template in favour of its own, unique voice. Ditch your preconceptions...". NME.com. 20 March 2000. Retrieved 17 June 2014. this primer does a pretty good job as a rough snapshot of a sound in transition, bar some glaring omissions (whether New Flesh For Old or 57th Dynasty?)
  24. ↑ Danielle Harling (23 January 2008). "Member of 57th Dynasty Passes; Funeral Details". Allhiphop.com. 1998 To Infinity. Carl "50/50″ Fearon an original member of UK Hip-Hop group The 57th Dynasty, passed away earlier this month
  25. ↑ Wenn (23 January 2008). "Funeral Planned For Carl '50/50' Fearon". ContactMusic.com. Retrieved 26 May 2014.
  26. ↑ 26.0 26.1 26.2 26.3 Spyce, M. (12 February 2003). "57th Dynasty – Believe The Hype". UKHH.com. perhaps the hottest Hip Hop group on the streets with their unique style and commitment, I caught up with the high-ranking group 57th Dynasty…
  27. ↑ 27.0 27.1 27.2 "The 57th Dynasty Biography". Last.fm. Retrieved 8 June 2014.
  28. ↑ "The Singers' Club August '97 Series". New Nation (36). 28 July 1997. p. 40.
  29. ↑ "Hip Hop Ten". Touch Magazine. June 1997. 3. Paradise: M.O.N.E.Y. (Fastforward UK 12")
  30. ↑ Kinetic (22 November 1997). "Code of the Streets – From the Ground Under". Echoes. p. 4. Whilst UK rappers slowly progress, Paradise of Fas>>Fwd crew, is on to a whole new level
  31. ↑ "Slice of the Pie". HHC Magazine. May 1997. Much respect goes out to the Fast Forward duo... This is definitely a nice track and is well worth the money. Quality UK hip-hop
  32. ↑ 32.0 32.1 Kinetic (6 June 1998). "Code of the Streets – Players Association". Echoes. p. 7. Leading the way for the FFwd Ent. crew and the 57th Dynasty comes Brixton born, raised in New York prodigal son Paradise
  33. ↑ "Gansta Lik". True Magazine: 10. April 1996. ISSN 1359-5083.
  34. ↑ "Paradise & Fas Fwd All Stars". Discogs.com. Discogs. Retrieved 25 May 2014.
  35. ↑ "Fas Forward All Stars". Blues and Soul Magazine. May 1997.
  36. ↑ "Disorda's Selection". Trace Magazine. May 1997. 9. FAS FWD ALLSTARS. No Way. Fas Fwd Entertainments
  37. ↑ "UK Hustlerz Volume 3". Discogs.com. Discogs. Retrieved 25 May 2014.
  38. ↑ 38.0 38.1 "Fas Fwd Entertainments". SolidPulse.net. November 2000. Retrieved 10 June 2014.
  39. ↑ "Spoken Word CD". cduniverse.com. Retrieved 14 June 2014. An extremely impressive debut album which follows the highly acclaimed single,"Boro 6/Lil Bro."
  40. ↑ 40.0 40.1 Haroon Syed (director) (2002). The Rise of 57th Dynasty: Brixton, Beats & Rhymes (DVD).
  41. ↑ "Film, TV & Theatre". unitedagents.co.uk. Retrieved 8 June 2014.
  42. ↑ "UK Hip Hop Untapped Vol 1". Amazon.co.uk. Retrieved 25 May 2014.
  43. ↑ "South West 9 Awards". IMDb.com. Amazon. 2001. Retrieved 28 May 2014. Nominated: Best British Independent Film
  44. ↑ "South West 9". IMDb. Amazon. Retrieved 25 May 2014.
  45. ↑ Boro 6 Vol. 2 – A Dynasty Truly Like No Other (Media notes). 2002.
  46. ↑ White, Paul. "Peoplesound.com: Behind The Scenes". Sound on Sound Ltd. SOS Publications Group. Retrieved 25 May 2014.
  47. ↑ Kwaku (27 January 2001). "Words & Deeds". Billboard 113 (4): 41. ISSN 0006-2510. Retrieved 3 June 2014. 57th Dynasty are really big on the site and have what it takes to make it in the US
  48. ↑ 48.0 48.1 "Boro 6, Vol. 2". britishblackmusic.com. 24 May 2008. Retrieved 15 June 2014. Intelligent, hard, dark, mellow, sweet, upbeat, this album covers it all. A useful British hip-hop document
  49. ↑ "Hip Hop's Head Honchos: Channel U". bbc.co.uk/1xtra. BBC. Retrieved 25 May 2014.
  50. ↑ "Channel U – The New Base?". Britishhiphop.co.uk. 2002. We reported Channel U is making moves with regard to getting UK Hip Hop videos aired. Thunda, Paradise, and Charlie Parker of the 57th Dynasty represented recently at Channel U studios filming a few channel I-dents. Both Break Free and the classic Love of Hip Hop have now been added to Channel U's playlist and are receiving rotation already!
  51. ↑ "Tim Westwood UK Hip Hop 2002, Vol. 1". AllMusic. 1 July 2002. Retrieved 11 June 2014.
  52. ↑ "1Xtra, the new black music digital radio station from the BBC, launches today" (Press release). BBC.co.uk. 16 August 2002. Retrieved 20 June 2014.
  53. ↑ "The 1Xtra Mix, In the Beginning!". BBC.co.uk. Retrieved 20 June 2014.
  54. ↑ Wallace, Gary (2003). "Broken Silence – So Solid Crew". britishchartsingles.com. Retrieved 11 June 2014. This week in 2003, Broken silence by So Solid Crew entered the UK singles chart at its highest position of number 9
  55. ↑ Wallace, Gary (February 2003). "OK – Big Brovaz". Britishchartsingles.blogspot.co.uk. Retrieved 11 June 2014. This week in 2003, OK by Big Brovaz entered the UK singles chart at its highest position of number 7
  56. ↑ "Rap music: Thug lite". The Economist. 15 May 2003. Retrieved 11 June 2014.
  57. ↑ Pook, Sally (7 January 2003). "Rap music 'glamorises gun violence'". The Telegraph. Retrieved 11 June 2014.
  58. ↑ "57th DYNASTY GHETTO GOLD/ HOLD STRONG" (PDF). The Wessex Scene. February 2000. recounts some of the harsher realities of a contemporary upbringing.
  59. ↑ "UK Runnings – Volume 2 (2002)". ukrunnings.co.uk. 2002. 08 – Lil Monsta from 57th Dynasty – Freestyle
  60. ↑ "THE 409 PROJECT". mutinyarts.co.uk. A video for a local hip hop band, The 57th Dynasty. Young people from the 409 project helped conceptualise and film this community project
  61. ↑ "Paradise and D.Tonk". urbansmarts.com. 2002.
  62. ↑ Cheeks, Nicci (2003). "57TH DYNASTY: NOW ITS YOUR TURN". britishhiphop.co.uk. after 6 years + of independent struggles and successes including a full page feature in the Source mag 03-03 it all seemed to just end.
  63. ↑ Hopkins, Nick (20 July 1999). "Radio 1 DJ shot in gangland-style hit". The Guardian. Retrieved 25 May 2014.
  64. ↑ "Pop 4 Roc lyrics". Rap Genius. Genius Media Group Inc. Retrieved 30 May 2014.
  65. ↑ "Tim Westwood". designermagazine.com. 2002. Retrieved 16 June 2014. People living the street life like 57th Dynasty
  66. ↑ "Damon Dash Beat Down Was Ordered". Rapdirt.com. 26 January 2003. Retrieved 8 June 2014. After the release of The Dynasty Roc La Familia album, members of the 57th Dynasty were furious claiming the concepts were originally theirs, and that they set Dame up to receive the beating.
  67. ↑ "Damon Dash Gets Beat Down". Hiphop DX. Cheri Media Group. 10 October 2002. Retrieved 25 May 2014.
  68. ↑ "Damon Dash turned down by order of the rap group". Kingsize.no. King Size. 27 January 2003. Retrieved 25 May 2014.
  69. ↑ 69.0 69.1 "Beats, Rhymes & Life". Realessencesoflife.com. Retrieved 10 June 2014.
  70. ↑ "Ain't Sayin Nothin' New LYRICS". Rapgenius.com. Retrieved 12 June 2014.
  71. ↑ "Hip-Hop Phenomenon 99 Brixton Academy". ukhh.com. 1999. |first1= missing |last1= in Authors list (help)
  72. ↑ 72.0 72.1 72.2 72.3 72.4 72.5 Ashford, Ben (5 September 2006). "Why Young Men Are Turning To Terror". South London Press. pp. 1–3.
  73. ↑ ""Ghanaian" Arrested in UK Terror Swoop". ghanaweb.com. Retrieved 15 June 2014.
  74. ↑ 74.0 74.1 Edwards, Jeff; Miller, Emily (4 September 2006). "EXCLUSIVE: NEW ISLAM CONVERTS HELD". The Mirror. Retrieved 14 June 2014. FIVE of the men held in the latest wave of terror raids are new converts to Islam, the Daily Mirror can reveal.
  75. ↑ 75.0 75.1 Edwards, Jeff; Miller, Emily (4 September 2006). "EXCLUSIVE: THE TERROR SCHOOL SUSPECT". The Mirror. Retrieved 14 June 2014.
  76. ↑ 76.0 76.1 "Streatham Anti Terror Raid". streathamlife.co.uk. 9 September 2006.
  77. ↑ Wright, Stephen (16 June 2008). "Forest Gate Two awarded £60,000 damages from police". The Daily Mail. Retrieved 15 June 2014.
  78. ↑ "Five 'terror training school' suspects are new Islam converts". The Daily Mail. 4 September 2006. Retrieved 14 June 2014.
  79. ↑ Cohen, David (3 February 2005). "The rise of the Muslim Boys". militaryphotos.net. Retrieved 15 June 2014. gang members refer to themselves as PDC, regarding the Muslim Boys as a term used by outsiders.

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