This post is password protected. To view it please enter your password below:

Password:

Hey folks, hope all is well with you. I don’t do this often, but i felt it was only right to do this for a man who deserves it. Today is my birthday November 7th 2011 and I feel its only right that I take some time to honor Bryant’s Legacy. I dont often blog on here, I try to stay in the background as much as I can. But, Bryant Smith is more than worth me doing this.

Bryant through the years has been one of the most supportive, caring, transparent people I know in this CHH (Christian Hip-Hop) industry. I first met Bryant in 2006 when I hosted an even at the “The Palace Cathedral” in Washington Heights N.Y. that summer. He was introduced to me by a fellow rapper named Conquest. He walked up to me and said “Hey bro I appreciate everything your doing, I love this event, and its nice to meet you”. Doesn’t sound like much, and frankly I must’ve heard that 10 times that night. But his words didn’t really stand out to me until years later when I got to know him better and realized. This man really means everything he says, and says everything he means. I tend to gravitate to those kinda folks, because those are the characteristics of INTEGRITY.

Fast forward to the summer of 2011, I hired Bryant to work on the “I’m A Christian tour” that ran through the summer. At 1st I was very nervous hiring him cause I knew he rapped too, and I didn’t want to offend him by just asking him to DJ. But we had such a long program I could not fit him in. So he arrived to the 1st rehearsal, on time, and ready to rock. That impressed me about him again. A man of his word. So many times we talk to people in this industry and even in life in general. We say things that we don’t mean and people tell us things they they don’t mean. But Bryant was a man that did neither. The 2nd rehersal was much longer and Bryant although he had to work and teach the next day, came on time and stayed till the very end. On our way out, we met the practice facilities receptionist, that wanted to ask us a few questions about our faith. He, was a “Meta physicist” and didnt understand why why “were going so hard for God, or the Christian God”. Withougt getting into the details of the convo, I was completly surprised that Bryant jumped in the convo and ministered from an intulectual level that is rearely seen from a Christian. It was amazing to me to witness how much he knew about this brotha’s own religion and about how it compares to what we believe as christians. It was clearly the most proud moment I had as Bryant’s friend.

So by now its the 2nd tour date at a church called “Elohim Christian Church”. Its about halfway through the show and we had a lag in the transition between intermission and HeeSun Lee’s set. So im telling Bryant to “Stall, Stall!”. So as any typical DJ would, i thought he would just play more music that poeople like and say a few things in the mic. No no no, Bryant Smith plays “In the Club” by Canton Jones, hops out from behind the DJ table and breaks out in the Dougie!! What!! The Dougie Bryant?!?! Look and Bryants pic above, now, Imagine him doing the dougie?!? We absolutely loved it. It was probably the highlight of the event. Bryant didnt care one bit, all the poeple were up dancing with him.  I soo wish folks had footage of that. But I cant find it anyway.

He was such a kind good man, i’m just so happy I got to meet him and know him for about 5 years. I just wanted to share my highlights and expiriences here. I also want to extend my condolences to his family and everyone that knew him and was close to him.

His last tweet before he passed just happened to be this:

Djbryantsmith: @chrisbelmont Congrats, Mr and Mrs Belmont! Peace and Love!

God is awesome and I thank God for sharing his son with us.

Feel free to comment below and share your memories, or if you didnt know him, tell us about how this story affected you.

Chris

PS: Special thanks to Marcus Hall from Kingdom Time Ent. for producing this tribute to Bryant Smith

Rapzilla.com presents the Flavor Fest Beat Battle

COMPETITORS

JR
Xperiment
Theory Hazit
Cheesebeats
Wit
Rock of JahRock’n Productions
Sicily
Kadence
Mpax
TEE-WYLA
Black Knight

Kingdom Choice Awards Producer Beat Battle

Chris will be taking part in the flavorfest beat battle in Tampa FL October 7th and 8th. Ray will he competing in the Kingdom Choice Awards’ pre-show on October 28th in NYC.

Stay Tuned to www.jahrockn.com for the outcomes of the competition.

What is a Christian anyway? I believe that we use the term “Christian” very lightly nowadays. It has become more of a classification, or a group we identify with, than a lifestyle. When asked what religion we are, some of us say “Christian” because we celebrate Christmas. If we attend church at least occasionally, then we consider ourselves a “Christian”. If you’re not Buddhist, Muslim, or Jewish, then you’re basically a “Christian”. That’s just how society has made it.

But at what point does one truly become a “Christian”? Is it a title we gain through or parents and their faith or is it a personal relationship we have to develop with God?  Is it when we say the sinner’s prayer or when our lifestyle reflects Christ?

“…I don’t just say I’m a Christian on Facebook. I go in my space, pray to God and face books like James, Ephesians, Titus and Galatians… to walk in the spirit no matter what adversity I’m facing…” – Kdrama.

He suggests being a “Christian” is not merely saying so, but studying the life of Christ in order to emulate him. Kdrama is saying that by reading our bibles, we can get to know Jesus personally and make decisions with the mind of Christ.

This brings me to my next point: christianmingle.com.

I was on my couch with my Barney blanket and a large spoon demolishing a pint of vanilla bean ice cream, when I saw a commercial for christianmingle.com. Ice cream time is usually sacred to me, but the advertisement for this new dating site pulled me out of my mental zen garden and into a state of inquisition. Was this site created by Christians?

It’s often difficult for us to debate topics like this because the internet did not exist in biblical times, but WWJD? (What would Jesus do?) One of the biggest issues with the internet is that anyone with ten minutes on their hands can create a profile and pretend to someone they are not. It took me 7 minutes to create a profile on christianmingle.com as a 5’7” blond 28 year old with an MBA and a little white dog named “Poochie”. I then received several messages from local men. How disappointed and deceived would they feel if we met for coffee only to discover I’m not 28, I’ve never been blond and the only pets I’ve ever had were goldfish, 9 of which died the first day?

There’s also an issue of faith. The bible says in James that faith without works is dead (James 2:17). It also says that they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength… I’M WAITING LORD! HURRY UP! (Isaiah 40:31). Am I doubting God by going online to find a husband as opposed to waiting for him to walk into my life? Is it okay to “help” God?

I’d really like to know what you guys think.†

Tweet of the Week

@jwilmusic – “You think Lil Wayne is amazing? Solomon had flow!!

Video of the Week

Song of the Week

Title: More than Friends

Artist: Seda

<a href=”http://jahrockn.bandcamp.com/track/more-than-friends-by-seda” mce_href=”http://jahrockn.bandcamp.com/track/more-than-friends-by-seda”>More Than Friends by SeDa by JahRock’n Productions</a>

Don’t forget to follow me on twitter for daily updates and a few laughs!

Brooklyn, NY (July 19, 2011) – JahRock’n Entertainment’s HeeSun Lee and SeDa, have announced plans to release The “I’m a Christian” Mixtape. The “I’m a Christian” Mixtape will be released exclusively on the Rock’n Fresh Fridays campaign beginning Friday July 22, 2011.

How Rock’n Fresh Fridays came about, Rock’n is play on words with the company name: JahRock’n Entertainment. Fresh meaning new music coming to you, and Fridays are the days the singles will be released. Rock’n Fresh Fridays will lead up to The “I’m a Christian” Mixtape which will be released on September 2, 2011. Rock’n Fresh Fridays will run for seven weeks, along the way, releasing seven songs off The “I’m a Christian” Mixtape which will debut September 2, 2011.

Some songs off The “I’m a Christian” Mixtape will be performed on The “I’m a Christian” Tour, which kicked off June 25th at Metro Christian Center in Brooklyn, NY and the second stop was at Elohim Christian Church in Richmond Hill, NY on July 15th. The next stop will be at Omni Student Ministry/Bethlehem Assembly of God in Valley Stream, NY on Aug. 3rd. The tour also features Tanisha Renee Brown and Reflect.







About JahRock’n Entertainment

JahRock’n Entertainment is a media company that was established by Chris Belmont in 2005 and is quickly making a name for themselves in the Christian hip-hop/r&b and soul genres. Since then JahRock’n Entertainment has grown into a versatile media company providing studio recording, mixing, and mastering services; music production services; and artist development services.

About HeeSun Lee

Born in Korea and raised in Staten Island, NY, HeeSun uses her gifts as a poet/lyricist/performer to share her experiences. With her debut album, RE:Defined, HeeSun displays a vulnerability rarely seen in hip hop. This talented artist, HeeSun Lee has announced her presence as a unique voice ready to redefine the game.

About SeDa

SeDa is not the industries everyday artist. Known for his album “FOUR LETTER WORD” and other accomplishments including; performances with Multi Grammy Award winning Pastor Donnie McClurkin, Kingdom Choice Award nominee for album of the year, and in more recent months “The Lost LP” album based on ABC’s hit TV show Lost. SeDa has composed a diverse selection of genres ranging from Classical, Jazz, R&B, Gospel and Rap. Expect exciting things from this versatile lyricist in the coming months.

###

]]> http://www.jahrockn.com/rockn-fresh-fridays/feed/ 0 http://www.jahrockn.com/music-ministry-or-both/ http://www.jahrockn.com/music-ministry-or-both/#comments Sat, 09 Jul 2011 13:40:13 +0000 Lady Ambassador http://www.jahrockn.com/?p=1454 Music is an important part of the society we live in. Religious ceremonies, movies and even simple television commercials often have an accompanying melody or tune to help make them more effective and memorable. Music has become so substantial that most of us can say that we know a few worship leaders, choir members or rappers.

I have never met a person that did not enjoy music. Whether classical, hip hop or heavy metal, most of us would agree that music enhances our lives. Good music can make a traffic jam bearable and a lame party a great one.

Who would want to live a life without music? Certainly not me! And I’ll be the first to say that quality and creativity are important to me. No one wants to hear music that sounds like it was recorded on a laptop in a 2×4 bathroom… so I commend those that take the their time and receive the critique necessary to create something of worth. But isn’t their more to music than its audio quality? What about the message behind it?

Most musicians have a driving force or motive behind their artistry; some sort of impression they’d like to leave on their followers. Some aim to comfort their listeners in times of heartache and loss, and others create music that will spread joy and laughter. Although some of us are not privy to the power of music, it possesses the ability to infiltrate our souls and change us.

What kind of change are artists invoking in our lives when we expose ourselves to their music? What spirits and moods and they transferring to us? 50 Cent’s “Get Rich or Die Tryin’” album makes me angry. I don’t consciously make the decision to be angry, but anger consumes me when I listen to that album. Trey Songz’ music inspires me to call up my ex and have an adventurous, lustful encounter. Beyonce’s “Freakum Dress” makes me want to dance on top of a table, in a club full of strangers while wearing the shortest, tightest dress I can find. Music is more influential than we realize.

Regardless of the genre, all music is ministry, or an agent. Let’s think of it this way, if we look at Heesun Lee as an agent of God determined to encourage, uplift and save, we would classify her as being in the ministry of the Lord. Can we say the same about 50, Trey Songz and Bey? I’m not anti-secular music, but at the same time, I chose against allow agents of any ministry other than the Lord’s penetrate my heart, corrupt my mind and kill my soul.

Music is ministry. †

What’s going on?

Tweet of the Week

@PastorYPJ – “Wisdom is like sunblock. It can only keep you from burning if applied.”

Video of the Week

Title: Lost Traveler

Artist: Channel

Song of the Week

Title: Theme Music

Artist: 

Don’t forget to follow me on twitter for daily updates and a few laughs!

]]> http://www.jahrockn.com/music-ministry-or-both/feed/ 2 http://www.jahrockn.com/is-hip-hop-dead-1/ http://www.jahrockn.com/is-hip-hop-dead-1/#comments Tue, 17 May 2011 08:00:51 +0000 Lady Ambassador http://www.jahrockn.com/?p=547

Ever since Nas coined the phrase “Hip Hop Is Dead” in 2006, the entire music industry has changed!

Gone are the days of everyone sounding the same! Individuality and being different have become more important than hip hop as a craft. Regardless of whether or not you see this as an improvement, the artists that are different prevail.

Artists like Lady Gaga, Nicki Minaj and The Black Eyed Peas had much success in 2010 because they set themselves apart from the rest. The Black Eyed Peas infuse hip hop with pop and funk and successfully cross cultural barriers due to their eccentric sound and global awareness. Black, Indian or Asian, their sound will catch your ear because it’s unlike anything you’ve heard before. Although some may argue Lil Kim or Foxy Brown are more talented, Nicki Minaj’s shocking outfits and multiple personalities have kept her relevant and helped her become the best female rapper currently in the game. I’m not a major supporter of Nicki Minaj, but I will say that she’s a hard working woman. The key to success in any business nowadays is directly related to one’s ability to stand out. HARD WORK PAYS OFF!

Don’t get hype, though… It’s not all good.

Some argue that our focus is on everything BUT talent. Outfits, arrests, twitter beef and plastic surgery distract us and give undeserved exposure to those that lack skill. Every song glorifies the same partying lifestyle and the industry is flooded with very few artists. Radio was once a platform for indie and major artists alike, but now it’s hard to hear anything that isn’t Young Money, Dirty Money or Kanye. Those with enough industry savvy are flooding the market, and once again, people are starting to lose interest and look for something else..

Could this be a CHH artists dream come true? Their golden ticket? (Willie Wonka much? LOL)

With millions of people in pursuit of new music, Christian Hip Hop is getting more attention than before. They’re becoming inquisitive and questioning how raw talents like K-drama, Trey Starxx, Pro, Seda and B-luv are gaining exposure at a snowballing rate. Well I prayed, fasted and sat in Indian style (not really) and the answer came to me! HIP HOP DIED, but the king is still on the throne. (Insert Applause Here)

Get out there CHH! A genre that has remained under a bushel is about to explode because all of the necessary components are there. We’re all made uniquely so as long as we stay true to ourselves, work hard and keep God first, we’re good! It’s do or die time! †

What’s going on?

CHH Tweet of the Week

@kareemmanuel – “I love when my students are afraid to say my wife is hot! I know she fine boy but if I catch you lusting I’m a lay holy hands on you”

Video of the Week

Title: Man in the Mirror

Artist: Relect

Song of the Week

Title: We Been Here

Artist: Conquest, Heesun Lee, Seda

Don’t forget to follow me on twitter for daily updates and a few laughs!

]]> http://www.jahrockn.com/is-hip-hop-dead-1/feed/ 1 http://www.jahrockn.com/jahrockn-studio-featured-in-promo-video-by-selah/ http://www.jahrockn.com/jahrockn-studio-featured-in-promo-video-by-selah/#comments Mon, 16 May 2011 20:56:12 +0000 jahrockn http://www.jahrockn.com/?p=1366

Rent Time at JahRock’n Recording Studio NOW!

]]> http://www.jahrockn.com/jahrockn-studio-featured-in-promo-video-by-selah/feed/ 0 http://www.jahrockn.com/the-im-a-christian-tour-artists-added-to-hip-hop-fest-2011/ http://www.jahrockn.com/the-im-a-christian-tour-artists-added-to-hip-hop-fest-2011/#comments Sun, 15 May 2011 00:28:51 +0000 jahrockn http://www.jahrockn.com/?p=1356

Artist line up:

SeDa
HeeSun Lee
K-Drama
Sho Baraka
Corey Red
Tanisha Renee Brown
Reflect
Goyo
Harold
Guerrero
Sandy LB
& More Reggae and Reggaeton artists!

About the venue:

Light House Assembly of God is a multicultural church for people of all walks of Life…LHAG is a “place you can call home with friends you call family”- The Lead Pastor is Pablo& Erika Pizarro

We are Located in North Newark NJ…973-757-8751

]]> http://www.jahrockn.com/the-im-a-christian-tour-artists-added-to-hip-hop-fest-2011/feed/ 0