Lil' O - Blood Money

Lil' O - Blood Money

Oreoluna Magnus Lawson, better known as Lil' O, is a rapper who hails from the southwest side of Houston, TX. His alias is a direct reference to his actual height, which is listed at five feet. He is also an original member of the legendary Screwed Up Click. Lil' O first appeared on the scene with the breakout single "Can't Stop," which featured Destiny's Child in 1997. The single was a instant hit on the streets of Houston and in return made him into an overnight celebrity. Blood Money is his highly anticipated debut album and it was released in 1999 on Game Face Entertainment. A gang of different producers were used to reach the end result. The likes of Crazy C, Chicken Hawk, Grizz, Double D, Swift and Willy Malone handle the bulk of the duties while Pimp C of UGK also chips in on one of the tracks. The beats can simply be described as that classic H-Town Sound. The rhythms are all funk laden and are very groovy to say the least. They are a true and classic representation of the older swang and bang sound which was very prominent with artists of the Screwed Up Click. The producers really do a solid job with the rhythms and the set up is perfect for the artist. Lil' O is an adept lyricist. He relies heavily on clever rhyme schemes and witty cliches. His pattern is not unique but it can still catch the listener by surprise. What really sets him apart is his southern tone, which upon hearing is very distinct and sharp. His pace is quite variable thus allowing him to adapt to any kind of song. Guest appearance are made by DJ Screw, UGK, Fat Pat, E.S.G., Big Pokey, C-Note, Will Lean, Yungstar, Hawk, Lil' Flip, 3-2, Al-D, Big Moe, Enjoli, Ronnie Spencer, Billy Cook, Bad Actaz, Slikk Breeze and Dana Jackson. A lengthy star studded guest list is customary for any Screwed Up Click release and while it may seem a bit heavy, it certainly does not over shadow the main artist. Overall this is a very stable piece with fifteen solid tracks to boast. The album was well worth the wait from the initial Maxi Single. It sold 20,000 copies upon release without any kind of promotion. The record could of done a lot better if it had proper promotion but that was not possible due to Lil' O serving time in the Harris County Jail. The album also beautifully withstands the test of time which is why it was re-released in 2006 with a bonus Chopped & Screwed disc. Lil' O is still active today, while his style of flow has altered a bit over time, his passion for music and loyalty to his crew remains unchanged.

Deadly Verses
Who's Snitching ft. UGK


Album Notes
* Lil' O is also a member of The Bar None Click.

Nickel Nut - No Snitchin'

Nickel Nut - No Snitchin'
Nickel Nut also known as Drunk D, is an underground rapper from the notorious neighborhood of 5th Ward in Houston, TX. He first started off as one of the five dominant members in the group, Too Much Trouble. As a group they released three successful albums with Rap-A-Lot Records. The group disbanded in 1997 over bad terms. Everything from financial issues to member incarcerations and even creative differences, played a major role in the groups' demise. After a five year hiatus, Nickel Nut resurfaced in 2002. No Snitchin' is his debut solo album and it was released in 2003 on Penthouse Records. The record is decently produced entirely by Grizz. The beats carry simple melodies which makes the tracks justly passable. Although some cuts do stand out, the lyrics tend to be far more superior though. Nickel Nut once again brings his intensified yet undeniably raw style to the table. His rhymes showcase countless accounts of ruthlessness and vileness. Main contents include raunchy sex escapades to dope fiend driven tales and surprisingly, even some heart felt ballads. Featuring on the album is Lo-Life and E-Rock of the 5th Ward Boyz, Ghetto MC of Too Much Trouble, Big Chill, Kannetic, Atom and Trey. Overall the record was a good attempt due to some minor flaws. Production does fall a good bit short but Nut keeps things afloat with his originality on the microphone. Sure the album wont take home any awards or plaques but it still deserves a honorable mention. Also, there are talks of a possible Too Much Trouble reunion and maybe even an all new album in the works.

Deadly Verses

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FWC - Organized Crime

FWC - Organized Crime

FWC which stands for Fifth Ward Circle, is a duo that represents from the hard hitting streets of 5th Ward in Houston, TX. The two rappers are Young Gotti and Frank Nitti. Now Frank Nitti was also known as Mr. Slimm in the early nineties and was also a member in the group known as the 5th Ward Juvenilez. Organized Crime is their debut album and it was released in 1998 on Underground Records. A label that had a publishing deal through the infamous, Rap-A-Lot Records. Production on this album was done by the legendary Mike Dean, Mr. Lee, Grizz and Domo. The producers and the rappers both drop some heat on this one. Classic tunes are backed up by solid lyrics. Featuring guests are Lil' Keke, 5th Ward Boyz, Philly Phil and Nickelboy. This was a great effort from the group and is also their only album, which makes it even more valuable. Also the hand sign on the album cover symbolizes the 5th Ward Circle and residents of the "Bloody Nickel" still use it to this day.

Deadly Verses

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