GRITS

Hip-hop moguls who own their own empires are revered for their rag-to-riches accomplishments: after a life of hustling and hard knocks, they've managed to touch hip-hop heaven and become magnates of the rap game. For proof, they've got the record label, the deep-rolling roster, the ice-encrusted platinum necklaces, the bodyguards, and the superstar girlfriend on the side. Sometimes they'll even record an album for fun.Except for the record label part, veteran hip-hop duo GRITS is nothing like that. In a climate that's grown exponentially hostile towards vacuous, superficial hip-hop posturing, the group's artistic aspirations reach much higher. They're older, they're wiser, and, more than ever, they're aware that their triumphs aren't to be hoarded. They've been blessed to be a blessing.Reiterate, their eighth full-length album, marks the beginning of this new era for the best-selling crew. Not only is the tandem made up of Teron "Bonafide" Carter and Stacy "Coffee" Jones still actively recording; after more than a decade with boutique independent label Gotee Records, the emcees are stepping out in faith and launching Revolution Art, an indie label of their own that, they hope, will make more than just hits.