If you listen to the thriving pulse of Toronto’s underground hip hop scene, it won’t be long before you come across the name CMA Entertainment. Founded in the year 2000, CMA Entertainment began its early years during an exciting time for Canadian hip hop in Toronto. With the birth of Canada’s first urban music station, the need for a company to represent the unique aspects of Canadian hip hop that set it apart from its American counterpart became very apparent. CMA Entertainment set out to be just that company. Comprised of artists from across the Greater Toronto Area and representing a variety of genres ranging from gospel rap to reggae, and even country music, CMA Entertainment is one of the most diversified companies in the industry.
The last year has been a very exciting time for CMA Entertainment. In addition to having artists perform in key downtown area clubs, most notably in Toronto’s expanding entertainment district, chances have also arisen to give back to the community by performing at youth functions and hosting community events. One of the most memorable and certainly the most meaningful achievement to the company was an event held in Regent Park in 2006. Uncle BNo, one of CMA’s leading rap artists, teamed up with another local artist, Khancept, to host Blocko, a block party geared towards the young people of the community. Not only was it a rare moment for the youth and their families to escape the troubles that routinely plague the area and have fun, but it also served as an uplifting and inspiring experience for all. It proved that with the right amount of effort and determination, one can achieve their dreams and goals regardless of their socio-economic background.
With the debut of several artists on the roster scheduled for this upcoming year, CMA Entertainment is ready to take a step to the forefront of the underground hip hop scene. By and far the most anticipated release from the company is from a female reggae artist known as Madd Linkzz. Her mixtape CD, entitled “Simple,†is slated for release in the first quarter of 2008. Though predominantly a reggae album, the CD will showcase the range of her talents, from conscious reggae and hip hop to soulful R & B. Listeners will also get a sample of other CMA artists, with features from Uncle BNo, Squad Music, and Tandi.
The long awaited champion for Toronto’s underground hip hop scene is here…CMA Entertainment: Ain’t Nuthin Betta!
