Hip Hop has been the catalyst for many artists to diversify and broaden their careers. You can add Jim Jones to the determined and elite list of artists who have upgraded their resumes to executive and entrepreneur. The Dipset member recently formed his Byrdgang Records with Asylum Records and is releasing his first project, BYRDGANG on July 1st.  "It all came to me," explains Jones in reference to Byrdgang members.  "I didn't hand-pick nothing.  It all came to me like a gift from God."

 

The diverse mixture of artistry consists of Jim Jones, Noe, Oshy, Mel Matrix, Freekey Zekey, Chink Santana and Sandman. They've already impacted the streets and clubs with their undeniable hit "Byrdgang Money." The group's debut hit displays the group's contagious swagger that has hip hop lovers joining the movement and agreeing it's all about getting money. The song has successfully struck heavy rotation across the country and has already been dubbed the summer hit for 2008. 

 

Their official first single, "S.P.L.A.S.H." features fellow Dipset member Juelz Santana. The acronym is best described in the most eloquent style only Byrdgang can illustrate, (Swagg Personifies Lavish Arrogant Sheik Hustlers).

 

Earlier this year, Byrdgang lost one of its soldiers when rising phenom and Jones' protégé Stack Bundles was murdered.  A blow without a doubt, his death was somber and motivating at the same time to the group who spent literally two years with Stack working on this upcoming album. "He had the whole package," says Jones.  "The swag, the walk, the way he talked.  He just reminded me of me. I told him, I'm almost out the game and I need somebody that's gonna do that thing for me, and he was with it.  He will be missed day in and day out."

 

With tributes and shout outs to Stack throughout the Byrdgang LP, the street and music legion share intricate tales of life, the pursuit of money and power, and the pitfalls along the way.  As mirrors to their own lives, Byrdgang provides powerful wordplay, imagery, entertainment and insight for those sharp enough to seek it.  Their long-awaited debut is guaranteed to put NY back on the scene and remind everyone why we all love this thing called hip-hop.

 

In addition to the release of the album, the group is preparing to release a DVD movie in conjunction with the album. Filming begins this month.  The group is also preparing to embark upon a tour to local group homes and youth centers in New York, Baltimore and Washington D.C. this summer.

 

For the latest news on Byrdgang be sure to check out www.blocksavvy.com/jimjones