Local hip-hop up-and-comer Beedie aims to make a good living doing what he loves: making music. He credits his confidence in himself and a relentless work ethic for his progress. And so far it's worked: This week the MC (real name Brian Green) released what he considers to be his official debut album, The Beat Bully LP.
Beedie's sound is a sort of new-school boom bap, combining ‘90s East Coast lyricism with modern-day wordplay. On The Beat Bully LP, Beedie is in his comfort zone, with contributions from several of the city's most acclaimed hip-hop producers -- DJ Vex, BusCrates, Shade Cobain, J. Fish, P. Fish and Sayez. What I've come to appreciate most about the album is Beedie's honesty. The album is entertaining, yet personal.
"It represents me, as an artist and as a person," Beedie explains of the new album. "I feel like I'm ready now, ready for the big leagues."
It took time for the 23-year-old MC to get to this point, and the biggest lesson learned during his journey is the importance of patience -- and cooperating with other people. When first building his reputation as a hip-hop artist in 2007, Beedie collaborated with now-Rostrum Records artist Mac Miller to form the group the Ill Spoken. More recently, Beedie joined forces with fellow rising Pittsburgh MC Jon Quest to create Varsity Squad. The duo earned a 2011 Pittsburgh Hip-Hop Award for Best New Artist/Group.
But recent success has not clouded Beedie's mind about the sacrifices he's made to get to this point.
"There were times when I should've got some food or paid my bills, but I chose music instead," he says. "If you choose that option, the odds are that it's going to work in your favor one of these times. I've been working hard, putting in overtime hours for years. My work ethic is non-stop."
The Beat Bully LP is a passionate effort from Beedie, and an enjoyable listen.
Varsity Squad performs:
Return of the Boom Bap Showcase Vol. 1 with DJ Tony Touch. 10 p.m. Thu., July 14.
Classic Material 4-year anniversary with Diamond D and DJ Selecta. 9 p.m. Sat., July 16.
Both shows at Shadow Lounge, 5972 Baum Blvd., East Liberty. Each show $10. Age 18+. 412-363-8277
