Atmosphere

Hip-hop wouldn't be what it is today without these artists who've been holding it down independently for years. Every one a trailblazer in their own right, these O.G.s showed the new generation how to be creatively free and how to make nice living at it...

A Seattle success story or the guys who put Minneapolis rap on the map? We know what you’re thinking: “How the hell is Macklemore an O.G.?” Don’t get it twisted, Macklemore’s no overnight success. If you’re familiar with Seattle’s local rap scene you know that the former “Professor Macklemore” has paid his dues and has been at it since the early 2000s...

There is something to be said for straight-no-chaser honesty. For outspoken lyricist Slug, a member of the influential Minneapolis hip-hop act Atmosphere, it has always been a hallmark of his triumphant and, at times, turbulent career. As a duo -- his partner Ant serves as both DJ and producer -- he's pumped out EPs and albums with substance...

Video game company EA Sports has announced that its new game 'Fight Night Champion' will feature an almost entirely indie hip-hop soundtrack, including underground heroes Murs, Black Milk, Atmosphere and El-P. The boxing game allows gamers to enter the ring as one of over 50 fighting legends like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson and current champs like Manny Pacquiao...

Though the cause of his death is still unknown, a memorial has been organized to celebrate rapper Eyedea's life this week. Fans of the Minnesota rapper, who died at age 28 on October 16, will be able to pay their respects at a public wake on Thursday, October 29, from 7:30 to 10PM at the Crowne Plaza St...

Respected indie rapper Eyedea died this weekend at the age of 28. The Minneapolis MC, born Michael Larsen, was discovered by his mother early Sunday morning, and news of his death hit the internet in a matter of hours. "It is with great pain and sadness that I tell you my son Mikey has passed away," his mother wrote on Facebook...

Ladies and gentleman, grab your backpacks. Atmosphere is hitting the road this fall for a full Rhymesayers trek that's being dubbed the 'To All My Friends' tour. Starting on September 8 in Madison, WI, the bill also features labelmates Blueprint, Grieves & Budo and DJ Rare Groove and runs through October 7 in Chicago. ...

The annual Soundset festival, helmed by the folks over at Rhymesayers Entertainment, will take place May 30 at Canterbury Park in Shakopee, Minnesota. The bill is a true celebration of hip-hop and features a great balance of heavy hitters, respected underground heads and intriguing up-and-comers on two stages over nine hours...

According to reports, Bay Area rapper Murs has been released from his contract at Warner Brothers. Murs, who is known for his independent hustle, having previously moved significant units on his own, with crew Living Legends and as an artist on larger indie label Def Jux, released his major label debut 'MURS For President' on Warner in September 2008, to mild success...

In a time when most rappers are working at UPS and indie label owners are heading back to business school, Minnesota hip hop heroes Atmosphere have consistently proven that it just takes time. The duo's buzz has increased, which has resulted in a boost in record sales...