New Music Spotlight: “Game Boy” Entering from stage right is an up and coming artist that I’ve had the pleasure to meet and see in action by the name of “Gameboy”. My first impression of him was here’s a young guy on a mission to succeed. Personally, he was polite, cordial and professional. On stage he went directly to the crowd with his flow and connected with the mostly female crowd at the Langston Hughes Center a few months ago and not only got their attention but you could tell he also won their respect. Some people call it “swagger”, his style and persona gave you the impression that this guy is going places. I recently sat down with Gameboy, who in his usual easy going manner gave me the following scoop on himself and his career. From school talent shows to community festivals, Terry Hill a/k/a “Gameboy” has always been a performer. Born and raised in Seattle, he decided to move to Atlanta to pursue his dream as a rap artist. At the age of fifteen he recorded a demo, shopping it to record labels such as Def Jam, So So Def and Slip & Slide records. Gameboy ultimately decided to return to Seattle, create a buzz within his region, and inspire record labels and various A&R (Artist & Repertoire) Reps to take notice. Since his 2005 feature on the Point Side Records Compilation, “Out Tha Trunk Muzik” he’s been capturing the ears of urban youth around the Northwest. In the last year, Gameboy has performed at several nightclubs such as Chop Suey, Studio & and The Vault opening up for Keek Da Sneak. Gameboy is also a successful entrepreneur. He is the Co-Founder of an entertainment company known as Top Rank Records. Top Rank provides positive and vibrant entertainment and productions to the community while offering job opportunities in various capacities of the entertainment industry. In an unusual and creative marketing process Gameboy is currently producing a three album series entitled the “Pre-albums” The intent of this project is to build a stronger fan base, expand into various markets and acquire viable contacts within the industry. Chapter 1 Pre-album is titled “It’s Already A Classic” which was released in the summer of 2006, has sold over five thousand copies. Next on the agenda will be his second release entitled “A Born Leader” which is slated for release in the Spring of 2007. His manager and co-founder of Top Rank Records, Eustace Kalyah is also his best friend. They met in elementary school and used to compete with each other selling candy to the other students at recess… Not that much has changed because today, they’re selling CD’s on their own label and have received a remarkable amount of success. I have reviewed the album (It’s already a Classic) and out of five stars, I’ve got to give it four. Great songs, nice and professional cover art and graphics, well produced and performed music, I’m here to tell you to keep an eye on Gameboy. He’s poised to put the Northwest on the map.His Lyrical inspirations are Tupac, Lil Wayne and Jay Z and his business inspirations are 50 Cent and again, Jay Z. Feel free to check out his music online at myspace.com/gameboy 206Driven, talented, determined and poised for success, Gameboy continues to develop as an artist, entrepreneur and a positive force in the community.Let’s Hook Up!You can submit your music, industry related questions, upcoming events, project information and promo packages to my attention to Entertainment Northwest c/o The Seattle Medium 2600 So Jackson Seattle,WA 98144 or my email address is thedmann524@hotmail.com. I’ll respond as quickly as possible.
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