Universal Soul (2)

Universal Soul is a Halifax (Nova Scotia, Canada) based hip hop ensemble who have been a part of the Halifax scene since 1985. Its members have inspired and mentored other hip hop artists Such as Classified, Buck 65, Sixtoo and Trobiz, and they have had numerous collaborations with artists as diverse as The Jimmy Swift Band, Symphony Nova Scotia and Anne Murray. Although they have avoided media limelight, they have been nominated and won several awards at the regional and national levels. --------- From artist profile page: https://www.reverbnation.com/universalsoul?popup_bio=true BIO: UNIVERSAL SOUL Universal Soul is MCs F.I.Z. (Finley Tolliver), Tacktishion (Tracey Williams) and DJ (I.V.). Bringing real hip hop to the masses. Universal Soul reached new heights in 2003 when they released their first widely distributed album “Time Capsule” which gave them 4 nominations and awards: • Much Music Video of the Year for “Way Back in the Day” • African-Canadian Recording of the Year for “Time Capsule” • Music Nova ScotiaNew Artist of the Year • Music Nova Scotia Urban Recording of the Year for “Bring the Funk 2 U” Additionally, a nationally viewed TV performance at the East Coast Music Awards, 2 Much Music Video Award nominations for Best Hip Hop Video/Best Hip Hop Group, 4 Video releases, and an awards sweep at the African NS Music Awards including: • Artist/Group of the Year • Best Album • Best Hip Hop Group Throw in Urban Group of the Year Award from MIANS, appearances in several documentaries, licensing a song to the comedy “Snakes & Ladders” on CBC for its opening theme, and it's clear U-SOUL made a huge splash with Time Capsule. They're ready to do it again, even bigger. Back to regain their trail blazing status, F.I.Z., Tacktishion and DJ IV are mastering and polishing the new album set to release the fall of 2011. With appearances by Maestro, Classified, Jurassic Five, Slow Coaster and more, their vision is that this album will be the greatest showcase the group’s versatility to date, with songs ranging from classic club bangers to life’s ups and downs. Universal Soul’s accomplishments are too numerous to list. From TV appearances to outdoor festivals, to recognition from City Hall, the group has evolved over 25 years. While not reaching the normal sought out “stardom” the group remains true to their roots; delivering classic hip hop and hip hop delivered with class. Let it be known that while keeping it positive they also speak about controversy and the struggle and never back down from haters. Known for their explosive live show the group has and always will be about the music come fame, fortune or not. HISTORY: U-Soul can trace its roots back to 1986 when they were called Down By Law. It was 1988 when they performed their first show at the Grawood Lounge. MCs F.I.Z. (Finley Tolliver), J-Rock (Patrick Jones), DJ Jorun - Bombay, dancers VooDoo (David Adekyode) and Cornell Slawter, and hype man Tacktishion (Tracey Williams). The group with its focus on culture driven lyrics performed various gigs around Halifax and opened up for Michie Mee and Public Enemy at the 1st Hip Hop Concert to hit Nova Scotia. In 1991 the group re-emerged as Black Season; MCs F.I.Z. and VooDoo toured Nova Scotian universities and high schools, then in 1992 became Universal Soul. The group had found their calling; to focus on the roots of hip hop rather than emulate the status quo, delivering positive messages performed and created with an eclectic selection of talent from all genres. U-Soul’s love of music message became evident in the numerous and diverse collaborations with artists such as Anne Murray, Cookie Rankin, Symphony Nova Scotia, The Jimmy Swift Band, Amelia Curran, and rap icons Run DMC, MC J & Cool G, Maestro, and Dream Warriors. Further proving that it’s not only about where you’re goin’ but where you came from. U-Soul has performed at schools, libraries, and various community events making a conscience effort to show that hip hop is for everyone. The Legendary Universal Soul www.myspace.com/universalsoul902