Amerikas Addiction
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Amerikas Addiction

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States | Established. Jan 01, 2012 | INDIE

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States | INDIE
Established on Jan, 2012
Duo Hip Hop R&B

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Music

Press


"Amerikas Addiction at Summerfest"

Summerfest, better known as the “World’s Largest Music Festival,” has always been a part of my life. I remember being a child growing up on the north side of Milwaukee seeing the commercials on TV, the newspaper articles, the stories from my friends and always wanting to go there and experience it! Growing up in a single mother household, going to Summerfest was truly a special occasion. My mother would save for us to go and I would get the opportunity to go and see all of the people, listen to the music, eat the foods (especially ice cream) and watch the fireworks during The Big Bang!

The thing that I remember most though, is the sound of music everywhere. I remember people of all colors, backgrounds and ages dancing and having fun. I always saw different artists of all genres being represented. Looking back in reflection, I believe that these images of musicians on stage and the crowds cheering them on, helped to influence me to become an artist and performer.

I grew up to become a hip-hop artist and producer, with dreams of performing at the festival that I held so many memories from, Summerfest, with my hip-hop duo Amerikas Addiction. For many years, we worked day and night on creating music, merchandise, doing shows anywhere and everywhere that would let us hold a microphone, spreading our message of inspiration to live life to the fullest and #DoWhatYouDesire. During that time I watched many of my peers get the opportunity to open for some of the greatest acts in music history and to perform for the crowd at Summerfest. I was inspired to one day rock a stage at Summerfest!

After years of hard work, long nights in the studio recording, doing shows for crowds of 60 people and sometimes only 2 people, we were contacted by the now very well-known Rebel Stage at Summerfest, we were asked to be the headliner of a show! I was beyond excited to finally tell all of our fans, supporters, friends and family that I would be performing at the “World’s Largest Music Festival,” Summerfest! This being the first time that we performed at Summerfest, we performed on what most may call 'a small stage' - but for me, it was the biggest and most important stage that I ever had the opportunity to perform on. I never had so many people who came to see and support me and my group. My childhood dream to perform at Summerfest had finally come true and it was a success for me and a pleasure for my fans that night.

Summerfest will always hold a special place in my life story, my heart, and my soul. It is a beautiful place to experience as a fan of music, a lover of festival culture and in my case, an independent artist trying to make it to the stages to perform for the people! - Summerfest


"Album Premiere On Fake Shore Drive"

Milwaukee duo Amerikas Addiction kick off April proper with the release of their new collaborative EP with Taylor Gang and Glitch Realm’s own RMB Justize, 4.

The EP, which is premiering right here on FSD, was produced entirely by RMB and also includes a guest contribution from fellow 414 representative Pizzle.

Stream 4 below the cut. - Fake Shore Drive


"Amerikas Addiction - The Prelude To..."

Amerikas Addiction (David Kelly vocalist and Joshua Scarver producer) new EP “The Prelude To…” is a mixture of songs, of emotions that range from trying to make it day to day survive, to relationship trials and tribulations, to having fun in the moment and back to reality again. The EP features up and coming artists Rob Hicks, Genesis Renji and J.R. Donato of Wiz Khalifa’s Taylor Gang Records. The album also features diverse production from Taz Taylor, Superstar O, Bobby Kritical and Taylor Gang producer I.D. Labs. The album was executive produced by Joshua Scarver co-founder of #DoWhatYouDesire. This is their first of many projects of 2017! - DJ Holiday


"Amerikas Addiction - The Prelude To..."

Amerikas Addiction (David Kelly vocalist and Joshua Scarver producer) new EP “The Prelude To,,,” is a mixture of songs, of emotions that range from trying to make it day to day survive, to relationship trials and tribulations, to having fun in the moment and back to reality again. The EP features up and coming artists Rob Hicks, Genesis Renji and J.R. Donato of Wiz Khalifa’s Taylor Gang Records. The album also features diverse production from Taz Taylor, Superstar O, Bobby Kritical and Taylor Gang producer I.D. Labs. The album was executive produced by Joshua Scarver co-founder of #DoWhatYouDesire . - The Grynd Report


"New Music: Amerikas Addiction "The Prelude To...""

Currently collaborating with Wiz Khalifa’s Taylor Gang Records, Amerikas Addiction kicks off their 2017 with the release of The Prelude To. The FREE EP is a gift to their fans which boosts production from ID LABS (Mac Miller, Wiz Khalifa), Bobby Kritical (K-Camp), and Taz Taylor (Big Sean, Dave East)! Check out The Prelude To, hosted by Drumsquads’ own DJ 23 now! Non DJ Version is available here ! - Get Your Buzz Up


"The Prelude To..."

Currently collaborating with Wiz Khalifa's Taylor Gang Records, Amerikas Addiction kicks off their 2017 with the release of The Prelude To. The FREE EP is a gift to their fans which boosts production from ID LABS (Mac Miller, Wiz Khalifa), Bobby Kritical (K-Camp), and Taz Taylor (Big Sean, Dave East)! Check out The Prelude To, hosted by Drumsquads' own DJ 23 now! - Broke To Dope


"Amerikas Addiction - The Prelude To..."

Currently collaborating with Wiz Khalifa’s Taylor Gang Records. Amerikas Addiction kicks off their 2017 with the release of The Prelude To, a free EP for their fans which boosts production from ID LABS (Mac Miller, Wiz Khalifa), Bobby Kritical (K-Camp), Taz Taylor (Big Sean, Dave East). Check out The Prelude To… Hosted by Drumsquads (Drumma Boy’s DJ coalition) own DJ 23 right now. The No DJ version will be available on all streaming platforms soon. - Early BBQ


"#DontSleep Amerikas Addiction has fire!"

Amerikas Addiction–a dope new hip-hop duo consisting of David Kelly and producer Joshua Scarver– have a new EP entitled The Prelude To which has been in heavy rotation in Atlanta. Collaborating with DJ 23 from the multi-platinum producer Drumma Boy’s “Drum Squad DJ’s,” they gave the release ample mass-appeal, with a side of some serious star potential. They are now gearing up to release another EP, Four, which is produced by RMB Justize from Wiz Khalifa’s Taylor Gang crew. No biggie.

The duo also have their lifestyle brand, #DoWhatYouDesire aka #DWYD and have also been extras on the hit TV show “Empire.” With some serious prospects and a high profile performance at Summerfest–the world’s largest music festival–under their belt, the guys are clearly on the right trajectory. Check out their ultra dope EP in its eight-track entirety below. - Above Average Hip-Hop


"Spotlight: Amerikas Addiction"

Two creatives out here in the music world, just trying to make it. And we believe they are well on their way. Meet Amerikas Addiction, members David Kelly and Josh (J-The Truth), are influenced by multiple genres such as hip hop, alternative, punk, reggae, dance and more and are making that influence standout in their music. Hailing from Milwaukee, WI, J-The Truth is the sound/ambiance producer and David Kelly is vocalist of the duo. Amerikas Addiction is a buzzing duo that’s deserving of your attention and your support.

So it was only right for us to interview the rising stars about their upbringings, upcoming plans and what’s in store for them as they envolve as a duo.Peep the interview below!

Tell us about yourself and your music.

JS: I am Joshua Scarver, the producer and executive producer of the duo. I am more centered in what we are, keeping us in the direction of our #DoWhatYouDesire mantra and making positive things happen. Our music is a creation of the world around us. The happenings, the negatives, the joys, the pains, the fun, the hustle.

DK: I am passionate with any and everything I do especially my music.. I just live to create.

How would you describe your sound?

JS: Diverse. We don’t follow the industry standard of having a “sound”. Which some say is bad…but that’s music business talk, corporate suit. Humans are not one way. If you are, then you are a robot, artificial, Fake, gmo, lame.

DK: My sound is based off my emotion. I may hit the studio mad because I got into it with my chick over some shit or I might be off the henny or crown ready to get lit.. It depends man.

Talk about the experience making your song/mixtape.

DK: It was intense. It’s always intense I put fourth a lot of energy time and effort to execute a certain sound.

JS: It was a great experience. It’s always amazing to take something in your soul, your brain and create it for others to experience in the real world. There is no better feeling than creating.

What are you currently working on? Any new projects? Shows?

JS: We are working on getting this new project out to the world, by any means necessary. We have 3 more albums to release this year as well. 1 each quarter. We are treating 2017 like a game, and each quarter we gotta ball our ass off and leave our blood sweat and tears on the floor or the field and win the game. Our next project is with Wiz Khalifa’s in house producer RMB Justize, I am sure the people will find something they can vibe with.

DK: Just finished up a project with Wiz Khalifa’s Grammy nominated in house Producer RMB JUSTIZE.. Gotta crazy [little] EP on the way. Time to wake em up!

What has been your biggest highlight in your music career this far?

DK: Seeing the fans get our Motto “Do What You Desire” tattooed on them.. like that is a every day highlight.. shit is crazy.. I love em.

JS: Just being able to create is the constant highlight. The most amazing moment is when a fan got our mantra of #DWYD aka #DoWhatYouDesire tatted on them. That was a feeling that I can’t describe in words.

Name your ideal collaboration: mainstream or independent artist(s).

JS: My ideal collaboration would be creating a rap label that does it the right way. I am open to working with all types of artists – most of the legends that I grew up wanting to work with and that I truly admired are no longer with us. RIP to Bob Marley, Prince, Jimi Hendrix, Pac, Michael Jackson, Biggie, James Brown, the true original pioneers. I’m an old soul man (laughs).

DK: At this moment.. I’d do a crazy record w/ coca vango and DonQ with production from Timbaland and SouthSide!

Name something random that people do not know about you.

JS: That I really love to smoke cigars, write my thoughts and drink Hennessy. I’m doing that as I write this. It’s a form of relaxation (laughs).

DK: I love Dragon Ball Z!

What’s one thing you have learned or discovered while being in the indie music scene/industry?

DK: Fans matter most.. more than anything.

JS: That relationships, hard work & consistency are the major key. S/o to Jay-Z, DJ Khaled & Future.

What can we expect from you in the future?

DK: Tons of great music and quality visuals!

JS:Greatness. Doing all I can to empower people in the forgotten communities. Inspiring millions to live the #DoWhatYouDesire lifestyle.

Anything else you would like to share with our readers?

JS:To go get that album on iTunes The Prelude to… by Amerikas Addiction
and to always – #DoWhatYouDesire

DK: To the fans!! I JUST WANNA SAY THANK YOU AND I LOVE YOU ALL! Go get our new EP “The Prelude To” on Apple Music now!! #DOWHATYOUDESIRE

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/AMERIKASADDICTIONDWYD
TWITTER @AMERIKASADDICT
INSTAGRAM @AMERIKASADDICTION - Purple Bars


"Amerikas Addiction - Lowkey Video Premeire"

Screen Shot 2016-09-27 at 12.55.35 PM

Produced by RMB Justize.

Milwaukee’s own Amerikas Addiction finally deliver the official video for “Lowkey,” from their 4 EP that was produced entirely by GlitchRealm/Taylor Gang producer RMB Justize.

Glad to see that this record got the visual treatment — this joint’s a banger. Hit the jump and watch the latest clip from Amerikas Addiction below. - Fake Shore Drive


"Amerikas Addiction - Four"

Amerikas Addiction wasted no time between their “The Prelude To…” EP and their latest project, “Four”. The EP was produced by Taylor Gang producer RMB Justize with assistance from Sledgren, and you can tell that the sound of their previous records influenced AA. With a more trap sound than previous efforts, Amerikas Addiction switch up their style, evolving along with contemporary rap, in a way that many others haven’t. Just when you think they’re out, Amerikas Addiction find a way to reinvent themselves, consistently hustling to make music for the people. Oh yeah, there’s a verse from Pizzle at the end of the EP, too. Catch their most recent release before they drop something else on you by checking out “Four” below: - Breaking And Entering


"Amerikas Addiction Shows Range"

Amerikas Addiction is one of America’s best Hip Hop duos, if not the best? For a “Prelude”, this is nuts. Just play it through. This upcoming project will be worth the hype. The DWYD team out of Cream City, Wisconsin, goes from slime to butter – track to track – field to the bedroom. Life shit. Lessons.

The first joint “Anything” with Rob Hicks is top position for a reason. This unit is saying a lot. Listen.

Amerikas Addiction:

“Bitch I’m in the city
My niggas with me
And we got the blicky
If you feeling itchy
Don’t care about status
Just gimme the cabbage
My niggas is savage
Y’all niggas so average”

Rob Hicks:

“It’s real in the field, better lace up your cleats
They not saying anything, talk is so cheap
They not saying anything, talk is so cheap
I said that shit twice, so you get what I mean
I just got a pole with a scope and a beam
You fuck with my kids, and I click at yo bean
The money don’t make you
The good it don’t make you
I promise that I won’t do anything they do
The low for my plug, if I owe you I pay you
Them boys in the hood just might load up and spray”

The “Goin” record also has much juice. The slowed down R&B “YOU” joint is smooth too. - Basement Made


"New Amerikas Addiction Album - Four"

Amerikas Addiction Joins forces with Taylor Gang Records Grammy Nominated In house producer RMB JUSTIZE (Cabin Fever, Blacc Hollywood) to release “FOUR”. FOUR is the follow up EP to “The Prelude To” which they released at the beginning of 2017. The results of Amerikas Addiction and Justize in the studio are 5 creative songs that feature the laid back Taylor Gang sound infused with the DO WHAT YOU DESIRE Mantra. The EP also features a collaboration with Sharrod Sloans formerly known as PIZZLE which was also produced by Wiz Khalifa’s most well known producer SLEDGREN. Amerikas Addiction will be releasing a new project every quarter. - Schweinbeck


"Amerikas Addiction "No Sleep" video and contest!"

Milwaukee, WI – Amerikas Addiction is getting ready to embark on their second single promo & contest venture. This time around they are running it in conjunction with a release off of their forthcoming project 13. 13 will see the duo working with some of today’s leading names in the world of production including: Paul White, DJ Pain 1, Cardo, AO, and Taz Taylor. Amerikas Addiction will be adding their own flavor to the mix as well.

The track they selected for the new campaign is dubbed “No $leep” and it was produced by Epik The Dawn. Epik is a West Coast talent who has garnered placements with: Chris Brown, T-Pain, MTV, VH1, and more. He supplied Amerikas Addiction with a gritty hood sound that is accented by sleek urban musical elements, a persuasive rhythm, and a vibe that fits the popular Trill club style that is currently dominating the mainstream airwaves. When that is factored in with the impressionable hook and the trendy low key cocksure verses pertaining to a lifestyle that leaves no room for taking it easy; there is no question that this record has all the makings of a chart topping hit. But it won’t just be dominating the airwaves. The fellas joined forces with Michael Alston to create an Atlanta based video for the record too. So they are going all out on this one. “No $leep” can be found online at www.soundcloud.com/amerikasaddiction/amerikas-addiction-no-sleep-dirty-prod-by-epik-the-dawn

The “No $leep Contest” challenges enterprising artists to bring their best 16 bars to the table by creating an original verse to the single’s instrumental. The winner of the contest will receive: $100 cash prize, blog features on two very prominent Mid-West media outlets, and more. That’s a pretty tempting giveaway that is up for grabs. Additional contest details will be available at the group’s official website amerikasaddiction.com.

Amerikas Addiction is an all-encompassing Hip-Hop duo based out of Milwaukee, WI that consists of members: David Kelly and Joshua “J-The Truth” Scarver. Operating under the motto “Do What You Desire,” the group has released several different projects to date and independently built a strong following of “addicts” worldwide through social networking and grass roots promotion. This has earned them a spot on Billboard’s Next Big Sound rankings. The two also double as bloggers who specialize in unique live interviews. To top off their list of talents, the fellas of Amerikas Addiction are known for putting together top of the line events and parties as well. Driven by their motto and priding themselves on being real and different, Amerikas Addiction is well on their way to getting the entire world hooked.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Joshua “J-The Truth” Scarver: joshuascarver@gmail.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/amerikasaddiction
Twitter: https://twitter.com/amerikasaddict
Instagram: http://instagram.com/amerikasaddiction


- See more at: http://rapcine.com/amerikas-addiction-presents-no-leep-single-contest-100-cash-prize-more/#sthash.Cumyv8Wp.dpuf - RapCine


"Amerikas Addiction - "Trust These Hoes""

The duo of Amerika’s Addiction kicked off the month of February by setting forth their latest single “Trust These Hoes (Comfort Inn Ending)” from their forthcoming album 13. The track is produced by @SickSiah41. The Jhene Aiko inspired single details the trouble one can find themselves in when being a little too trusting of the female gender. Member David Kelly provides an entrancing admonition that is paired with a flawlessly placed hook that samples Aiko’s “Comfort Inn Ending” freestyle. Please see included Sound Cloud link for listening purposes.
To capitalize on the rapidly growing success of the record, the duo has decided to follow up with a visual. It centers on Kelly’s troubled relationship that is outlined in the song, the viewer is privy to a romantic tale that begins like any other but unfortunately ends up taking a turn for the worst. The turn entails a deadly twist that provides a thrilling element of deceit which is sure to captivate any viewer. The vision puts one in the mind of an Eminem or Tech N9ne style offering. - www.versedonline.com


"AMERIKAS ADDICTION – “NO $LEEP” – OFFICIAL VIDEO/#NOSLEEPCONTEST"

Wisconsin based duo Amerikas Addiction is made up of vocalist/emotionalist, David Kelly, and sound/ambiance producer, J The Truth. Drawing influence from the hip-hop, alternative, punk, reggae, dance, and techno music cultures, Amerikas Addiction produces eclectic, mood music with a fresh futuristic flair.

“I don’t do it for the fame /What I do is automatic”, spits Kelly over some super nice production by EPIK in the just released official video for “No $leep”, (above) Amerikas Addiction’s new street banger shot in Atlanta, GA. by Michal Alston.

Along with the video, the duo announced the #NoSleepContest, allowing their artistic fan base, dubbed ” the Addicts” to rap over the track for the chance to win a C-note along with the winning track posted on some dope websites, and some free apparel. Get your bars up and party with Amerikas Addiction! Official Rules >>> amerikasaddiction.com/nosleep/ - Souls In Action


"Amerikas Addiction Interview with "I Hate Michael Shirley""

Ok, so I’m just going to get this out of the way… y'all are sexy men. Is it even possible for either of you to have serious girlfriends? I’m imagining you have some serious groupies.
DAVID: Compliment accepted, haha! At one point I was in a relationship, but being busy and on the road all the time just didn’t work out for me. Having one girl would be cool, but shit… so many beautiful girls… I don’t know. Single life is stress free for me.
JOSHUA: AHAHAHAHA! I’m debating on getting married. I probably will… 99.9% sure of it. I got a good one. Time to do like Beyonce said and putta ring on it! Oh yeah, I don’t call women groupies, I call our female supporters “Addicts.”
What’s your band’s policy on groupies or Addicts? Do you ever mix business with pleasure?
DAVID: I am all about fun… Business first, of course. But, yeah, groupies, hell yeah. I’m all about making memories. Won’t be young forever, ha, lets get it. My bro, Josh, always says “Do what you desire, bro.”
JOSHUA: I mix business with pleasure every night, so….yeah. No groupies, though. We can take a pic or I can sign a body part, maybe. Ankles only… or knee caps.
You guys actually created a hashtag that made it into the Urban Dictionary! How did all of that come about?
DAVID: Well.. We created the motto "Do What You Desire,“ also known as #DWYD. However, we wanted to make it identifiable, so that’s when we added the hashtag and it just took a life of its own. It’s trademarked and everything. Now it’s much more than just a phrase or motto. It’s a way of life… a life style and a death style is what we call it.
JOSHUA: Well, #DWYD started from "Do What You Desire” which was created from shitty jobs we hated. I know you all can relate. But most can’t relate to the vision and thats okay. Its only for a selective few, but its relatable to everyone who walks the planet… similar to Just Do It - Do What You Desire. As far as #DWYD making it into the Urban Dictionary, I found that on accident on Google. Shout out to Google!
A ton of your fans have #DWYD tattoos! I’m totally thinking about getting one, but I’m worried that having the phrase on my body might not be conducive to affective parenting once I get to that point. What are your thoughts? Should I put it on my butt, so it’s like a little secret between me and myself?
DAVID: I’ll say you won’t be the first, haha. Butttttttt, def do what you desire, ha. Do what you desire is timeless. It applies to all walks of life. Example - Nike… Just Do It. That applies to everything from a basketball player shooting a jump shot to a realtor closing on a big deal.
JOSHUA: I say, do what you desire, bro! I don’t desire to ever see it, so don’t be DM'ing me no ass pics, but we can send you some #DWYD temporary tats to put on all your lady friends and have them send pics. You can also test the waters with the temporary tat on your ass too. - I Hate Michael Shirley


"Amerikas Addiction rocking FYASKO"

Amerika’s Addiction
Check Amerika’s Addiction representing some Fyasko threads in their latest music video, “eye.” - FYASKO CLOTHING


"Tory Lanez with Special Guests Amerikas Addiction"

Tory Lanez + Keem + Amerikas Addiction + Charles Grant :: $10 Advance Tix [at] The Frequency

Majestic Live Presents:
TORY LANEZ
with Special Guests:
Keem (of Kyle & Keem)
Amerikas Addiction
and Charles Grant

Monday, February 9
Doors at 9pm | Show at 10pm
at The Frequency - Hey Event


"MY FRIENDS ART SHOW (Performances by Ted Park, Trapo, Amerikas Addiction, B. Ortiz & MORE)"

JULY 6TH @ Bright Red Studios . ALL AGES! $5 Entry.
6:30pm-12:00am.
ART, FOOD, MUSIC & GOOD VIBES
Performances by Ted Park, Trapo, Amerikas Addiction, B. Ortiz & MORE
GONNA BE THE MOST TURNT UP MONDAY EVER SO B HERE

FULL PERFORMANCE LINEUP:
Ted Park
Trapo
Amerikas Addiction
B. Ortiz
Ra$haun
Tusslemat
Lil Tee
Jonny Cash
Riel Prophet - Round Town


"New Video] Amerikas Addiction – “Trust These Hoes”"

Wilwaukee, WI duo Amerika’s Addiction present the chilling music video for their Jhene Aiko sampling single "Trust These Hoes". With an arrangement of sinister production cheffed up by SickSiah, "Trust These Hoes" details Amerika's Addiction fatal tale of trusting a completely untrustworthy female. - IStandard Producers


"Amerikas Addiction – “Late Nights and Early Mornings” (EP)"

Peep the newest EP from @AmerikasAddict, “Late Nights and Early Mornings“. Producers include Amerikas Addiction themselves, Loco Los and Cardo. There’s definitely a few bangers in this compilation, stream it below. - Dope DC


"NEW MUSIC: Amerikas Addiction "Leanin' N' Rollin""

Check out new music from Amerikas Addiction "Leanin' N' Rollin' produced by King Nova. Amerikas Addiction decided to surprise their supporters with a new track out of their arsenal as they patiently await the arrival of their upcoming music video. The new release is colorfully coined “Leanin N Rollin.” It was produced by King Nova with the fellas of Amerikas Addiction taking on the duties of writing and arranging as per usual. - Post The Socialite


"(New Music)- @amerikasaddict “No $leep” #DWYD"

Amerikas Addiction is getting ready to embark on their second single promo & contest venture. This time around they are running it in conjunction with a release off of their forthcoming project 13. 13 will see the duo working with some of today’s leading names in the world of production including: Paul White, DJ Pain 1, Cardo, AO, and Taz Taylor. Amerikas Addiction will be adding their own flavor to the mix as well.
The track they selected for the new campaign is dubbed “No $leep” and it was produced by Epik The Dawn. Epik is a West Coast talent who has garnered placements with: Chris Brown, T-Pain, MTV, VH1, and more. He supplied Amerikas Addiction with a gritty hood sound that is accented by sleek urban musical elements, a persuasive rhythm, and a vibe that fits the popular Trill club style that is currently dominating the mainstream airwaves. When that is factored in with the impressionable hook and the trendy low key cocksure verses pertaining to a lifestyle that leaves no room for taking it easy; there is no question that this record has all the makings of a chart topping hit. But it won’t just be dominating the airwaves. The fellas joined forces with Michael Alston to create an Atlanta based video for the record too.
The “No $leep Contest” challenges enterprising artists to bring their best 16 bars to the table by creating an original verse to the single’s instrumental. The winner of the contest will receive: $100 cash prize, blog features on two very prominent Mid-West media outlets, and more. That’s a pretty tempting giveaway that is up for grabs. Additional contest details will be available at the group’s official website - Get Your Buzz UP


"Summerfest - Rebel Stage - Amerikas Addiction 2014"

With Summerfest just a few days away, by now you might have studied up the full lineup on its website or app or in the brochure. Except you technically didn't look at the full lineup.

That's because, near Summerfest's hole-in-one golf game along the lakefront, there's a sort of secret stage: the aptly titled Rebel Stage, formerly the Refugee Stage.

Despite minimal promotion, the Rebel Stage is still popular, especially among local musicians. This year, more than 900 acts sent submissions for about 75 slots, said stage organizer Eoin McCarthy, frontman for local Celtic punk band Whiskey of the Damned. Some local bands — including Whiskey itself, Conniption and the Black Saints — have used the stage as a stepping stool for other Summerfest bookings, McCarthy said.

Even though it's not officially promoted by Summerfest — "we'd need a proper sponsor, and there's too much work involved," McCarthy said — the Rebel Stage is still Summerfest-approved. But that wasn't always the case.

"Me and a couple of guys were busking outside of Summerfest, and one day we walked up to the tiki stage and asked if they had an open slot," McCarthy recalled. "They said, 'Yeah, show up tomorrow,' and the three of us got passes to park, got all our gear inside, and they gave up our slot. We were standing there and didn't know what to do, so we went along the lakefront, found an outlet, plugged in our instruments and started playing.

"We made photocopies of our passes, and we did it the next day and the next day, and we started bringing more and more stuff in."

At the end of the run, they got busted by Summerfest's associate entertainment director, Vic Thomas.

"He basically said, 'I don't mind you doing this, but we can't have you where you're standing. We have to give you a proper spot.'" And Summerfest did, starting in 2008, McCarthy said.

"We get to do basically whatever we want," he said. "Everyone that works there volunteers. We supply the sound, food and drinks and push merch. Lots of the bands crash at my house."

It's scrappy, but McCarthy is bringing in bigger sound and lighting systems for 2014, and spending a couple grand out of his own pocket.

"The bands themselves really motivate me to do it," he said.

For the Rebel Stage lineup, see jsonline.com/summerfest.

2014 REBEL STAGE LINEUP AT SUMMERFEST
June 25

Noon: MattytillDawn

1:30 p.m.: Young Revelators

3 p.m.: Red Light Refugee

4:30 p.m.: White Lies

6 p.m.: Test Pilot

7:30 p.m. Oct. 29

9 p.m. TBA

June 26

Noon & 1:30 & 9 p.m. TBA

3 p.m. Indigo Mood

4:30 p.m. Rob Roach

6 p.m. Kimberly Brown

7:30 p.m. Astral/Subastral

June 27

Noon Jack Trice

1:30 p.m. Mathew Haeffel

3 p.m. The Polyps

4:30 p.m. Fadeback Forum

6 p.m. Level the City

7:30 p.m. OncetheSun

9 p.m. Wiseguys and Skallywags

June 28

Noon Mixed Company

1:30 p.m. The Yates Kids/Los Moruchos

3 p.m. Cannibal Galaxy

4:30 p.m. Donoma

6 p.m. Scratch 45/Self Destruckt

7:30 p.m. No Conviction

9 p.m. Pistofficer

June 29

Noon Royal Militia

1:30 p.m. Astro Slik

3 p.m. Entropy

ADVERTISING

4:30 p.m. John Condron

6 p.m. Monk-BMS

7:30 p.m. Homelabproductions

9 p.m. Amerikas Addiction - OnMilwaukee


"UW-Milwaukee’s CAB Coffeehouse presented Amerikas Addiction and Dan Henig at the Union Fireside Lounge on Thursday December 4, 2014."

UW-Milwaukee’s CAB Coffeehouse presented Amerikas Addiction and Dan Henig at the Union Fireside Lounge on Thursday December 4, 2014.

Amerikas Addiction is a local Milwaukee group and Dan Henig is a YouTube star with millions of views. Other local artists were also welcomed to perform during the open mic. Brooke Dowden reports for Media Milwaukee. - IAmMilwaukee


"Squarespace Discovery Stage"

Squarespace Discovery Stage: Friday Edition
Join us at Squarespace Discovery Stage at Mammal Gallery to hear some of the most promising independent hip-hop artists of today. For months leading up to A3C Festival & Conference, we sorted through over a thousand submissions from musicians across the country. Then, we asked hip-hop fans from around the world to to select their favorites. Thousands voted every week and the top artists will be performing at A3C 2017! #ThisIsMyYearA3C #Squarespace - A3C Music Festival and Conference


"Great Night by Amerikas Addiction feat JR Donato"

We have one final Lyrical Lemonade debut tonight, and this time around it’s for the duo Amerikas Addiction & the visual for their track “Great Night”. Amerikas Addiction consists of David Kelly who is the vocalist and Joshua Scarver who contributes as the executive producer, and they make some really dope music to say the least. I’m certain you already knew this just from glancing at the title, but this video details what a great night looks like in the lives of Amerikas Addiction and JR Donato. The three of them connected with music video director Michael Alston for this one, and after looking at the final product it’s safe to say they picked the right man for the job. I really enjoyed this music video & I believe you will too, check it out below.

produced by S.U.P.R.E.M.E - Lyrical Lemonade


"Amerikas Addiction talks Betrayal in new video"

Gearing up for their upcoming album Finish Em, Amerikas Addiction comes pretty hard with their latest visual for “Betrayal.” Being their first effort of 2018, they certainly set the bar high with this one. From the concept of the record to the dynamic production from P Beezy Beats, it’s bound to be kept on repeat for many listeners

Amerikas Addiction is a Hip-Hop duo based out of Milwaukee, WI that consists of members David Kelly and Joshua Scarver. Operating under the motto “Do What You Desire,” the group has released several different projects to date and independently built a strong following of “addicts” worldwide via promotion (over 100 women have #DWYD or #DoWhatYouDesire tattooed on them).

They have been casted and seen on hit TV show “Empire” Season 2 & 3 as extras in some scenes. They also have a podcast show on the GryndFestRadio entitled #DWYDSoundRadio, which features signed and upcoming hip-hop artists. Driven by their motto and priding themselves on being real and different, Amerikas Addiction is well on their way to getting the entire world hooked. - Respect Mag


"Amerikas Addiction Got Everything In Motion in new visual"

Milwaukee rap duo Amerikas Addiction is back with their second video release of 2018 with “Motion.” Directed by CTM Films and produced by P. Beezy, this visual is a continuation from their suspense-filled visual for “Betrayal.” Recently cracking 100,000 views, they’ve gained a lot of attention and accumulated many new fans — they’ve even caught the eyes of well-known record label Warner Bros.

Judging from the pace they’re going at this point, it’s safe to say that Amerikas Addiction should not be slept on by any means. It’s only a matter of time until the world sees them take the industry by storm. The record can be found on their album Finish Em, which is available on all platforms (stream/download below). Check it out below let us know your thoughts! - Respect Mag


"Amerikas Addiction Serves Up A 5 Piece"

Milwaukee, WI rap duo Amerikas Addiction decides to give us a 5 Piece in the form of an EP, hosted by iLLANOiZE's own DJ First Class.

The project was inspired by their visits to Chicago ----- absorbing the culture, fashion, music and of course, Harold's Chicken. With production handled by platinum producers Lex Luger, Nard & B, CashMoney AP, RMB Justize & upcoming Yung Nab intact, this quick fill up is worth your ears.

After the duo's 9-city tour, they've caught the attention record labels such as Warner Bros, after the success of their previous releases "Finish Em" & "Betrayal." - Illanoize


Discography

"Finish Em" Unreleased - 2/27/2018

"While Your Were Sleeping..." EP

"Four" EP

"The Prelude To..."

"Blame It On The Drugs" EP

"Late Nights and Early Mornings" EP


Photos

Bio

Amerikas Addiction is an unconventional hip-hop music duo from Milwaukee, WI. The members consist of Joshua Scarver and David Kelly. Joshua serves as the executive producer/business mind and sets the tone for the music and brand. While David handles the vocals, writing and emotional aspect of creation. The duo’s style is based on a variety of influences that range from Hip-Hop to R&B. They pride themselves on being different and unclassified and as a result have adopted the motto “Do What You Desire (#DWYD).” Their quality music and open ended approach to things has earned them a loyal and diverse fan base. If that’s not proof enough of their impact, fans internationally have started branding themselves via tattoos with variations of their aforementioned motto. It also landed the motto as an official term in the online Urban Dictionary.

2017 was a year of expanding Amerikas Addiction and their #DWYD brand.

Official performing artists at A3C 2017 Music Fest & Conference on the Square Space Discovery Stage in Atlanta, GA.

Recipient of 2017 Swisher Sweets Artist Grant in Atlanta, GA.

Toured and performed in 8 different cities primarily on the east coast such as Buffalo & Brooklyn, NY - Manchester, NH - Dover, NH - Portland, ME - Holyoke, MA - New Haven, IN and Milwaukee, WI. (They will be touring again in the midwest and southern regions in April 2018 in Detroit/Chicago/New Orleans/Dallas/Austin and more TBA)

Partnered with Wiz Khalifa's in house producer (RMB Justize) to create EP entitled "FOUR" which was released on the Midwest's top hip-hop site Fake Shore Drive.

Partnered with top hip-hop freestyle app - Rap Chat for a freestyle rap contest that had over 200 plus submissions. They have over 20,000 fans on the app.

Performed at and wrote for the Worlds Biggest Music Festival - Summerfest in July of 2017, which draws over 1 million music fans annually.

Amerikas Addiction has several unique projects under their belt including: The Enlitened Ones, Blame It On The Drugs, Late Nights and Early Mornings, and Love, Heartbreak & Other Drugs and their most well know projects were created in 2017 - "The Prelude To..." which features production from Super Star O, Taz Taylor and a special guest appearance from J.R. Donato of Taylor Gang. "Four" which was a collaboration with Grammy Nominated producer RMB Justize & Sledgren from Platinum artist Wiz Khalifa's label Taylor Gang Records, the project was premiered on Chicago's number one hip hop site, Fake Shore Drive. Their 3rd release was the 6 song EP "While You Were Sleeping" which featured production from SM Tracks & Bobby Kritical. Their first release of 2018 will be "Finish Em" (end of February) which features production from P Beezy and the duo reuniting with Sledgren and RMB Justize of Taylor Gang.

The projects stand out in their own right with interesting stories and inspirations behind them that lend insight into the minds & lives of the duo while at the same time serving as tributes to their incredible fan base. Additionally, it allotted them the opportunity to work with an impressive collective of producers such as: Cardo, RMB Justize, DJ Pain 1, BrandUn Deshay, and others. They have also performed with chart topping artists such as Tory Lanez, !MayDay!, Twista, Dirt Nasty, Mannie Fresh and Mickey Avalon in major venues in Madison, Chicago and Milwaukee.

In keeping with their motto, the group extends their talents beyond music. They also have been back ground actors on the hit FOX TV show Empire. Member Joshua Scarver also runs the #DWYD website focusing on interviewing people of interest and also working with Children's Hospital of Wisconsin by executing donation drives that has collected over 8,000 toys and books in 6 years.

Band Members