Anti-Putin Russian Hip-Hop

Admittedly, I don't speak Russian, but this video's visuals compare Putin to Hitler and seem to slam the skinhead movement as pointlessly violent.

Let me know if that is off base, somebody. But the song is a good one, and unlike U.S. hip-hop, it seems to be something more than depressed young men holding their crotches and hating women.

Russian Rap: Hip Hop With a Smile

A really infectious song that shows hip hop doesn't have to be angry. Another youtube video that you will want to watch over and over again.

What's so interesting is how the classic hip hop gang poses, with hand signals and standing with crossed arms, is adapted to another place across the globe with a mocking laugh. Nothing vicious, just fun. Another difference in this video in the incorporation of many regular people. There is no need for barely-dressed women draped on cars or around pools. The artistic confidence displayed by both choices is often missing in U.S. hip hop videos.

As the reader might know, I am a fan of the San Diego hip hop sound. However, the videos follow a formulaic visual track of anger, cement, barely-dressed women, big gold jewelry and cars. I understand that this message is a reflection of a life lived, but is there nothing else to say visually? Something to think about.

The video and the music speaks for itself and is fun to watch.

A-Pink My My Video - Japanese Girl Group

This is a really fun music video by a Japanese girl group called A-pink. The clothes and choreography are engaging and don't be surprised if you wake up in the morning singing this song.

Make a Movie by Mack Twon

Another blast of the San Diego hip hop sound.

Great New Song from Besureis "It's Not Your Fate"

Great song and video. Powerful and great mingle of vocals. Never heard of Besureis before, I think they are from the UK.

Anyway, check it out.