FYI | Why Krewella’s Billboard Op-Ed Missed The Mark

Posted by on December 8, 2014

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Every blog is talking about it. Earlier today, Jahan of Krewella released an exclusive Op-Ed via Billboard (with an insanely manipulative click-bait title) that addressed the recent lawsuit and breakup of EDM’s crossover supergroup. There real story here isn’t even the personally penned piece. It’s how Jake Udell continues to gain this kind of traction online for his clients, but I digress.

In the beginning of the Op-Ed, Jahan describes Krewella as “the most hated group in the electronic dance music scene” which isn’t far from the truth at the moment. It’s a shame considering their meteoric rise. However, it’s a lesson everyone should understand: perception is reality in the dance space. While the jury is still out on whether the sisters are responsible for pushing Kris out or not (we’re not making any claims either way) they have an image problem and it seems evident Krewella knows this. That’s why they posted this carefully calculated (tone-def) op-ed on Billboard today to quell some of the backlash.

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House | Kanye West – Deep/Slaves/Mercy (SomeOneHad2DoIt Edition)

Posted by on November 14, 2014

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Well, here we go. Another anonymous producer on our hands. At least that’s the way it’s been billed and pitched to the masses. I can’t blame these producers for posting anonymously. Fans are close minded and will turn on you fast if you release something they’re not accustomed to. SomeOneHad2DoIt steps up to the plate to put his “future house” spin on Kanye West’s signature tracks with impressive results.

Do we have another ZHU on our hands? I’d argue it’s too early to tell. The track is good but not great. What I don’t like is their aesthetic. Using Kate Upton (who’s built like a rectangle) isn’t my cup of tea and cheapens the song in my opinion. Further, it’s less impressive from a creative standpoint now that many are attempting to follow the model that Jake Udell largely pioneered. Just my two cents.

Criticism aside, I’m sure this will show up on Oliver’s “Heldeep Radio” soon enough.

FYI | Jake Udell Gave Up A Rap Career To Become Krewella’s Manager

Posted by on September 9, 2014


Jake Udell. What can you say about him that that hasn’t already been said. He’s a highly respected force in the industry. From being mentioned in Bob Lefsetz’s letter to managing Krewella and ZHU, he’s carved a brand for himself, becoming what many have called a super-manager. That’s why the video above is so fascinating. In an interview with AskMen.com, Udell described his budding rap persona.

JU: Yes. That is the last thing I want to bring up in this interview, but my failed career as a recording artist was so essential into making me the manager I am today. When I was 19 the recession hit and people needed essentials like milk more than framed jerseys for their wall. It was the summer between my freshman and sophomore year of college. I realized my goal was to have a voice. Rapping became the vehicle. The record was so bad, but it actually got radio play here in Chicago and other markets.

I could go on and on about Jake Udell and his interview with AskMen, but you’re going to have to read it yourself. A fascinating article about a fascinating person. Read the interview HERE.

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