So, in my tenure as a working musician–that now spans my entire adult life–I’ve come to realize a few things about venues. One of those things is, the bathroom tells the whole story. It’s been my experience that if the bathroom is covered in stickers and graffiti, has little to no paper towels or soap available, and requires pissing in a trough or some other metal receptical, that you’re probably going to have an awesome time there. This rule holds up at the jewel of Rock Hill South Carolina, The Money. Sitting just across the street from Winthrop University, with a gravel parking lot and nondescript exterior it can be easy to miss at first visit but once you’ve been inside for an evening you’ll never forget it. You’ll probably be greeted at the door by Bubba, a mountain of a man who handles the door and who has exceptional manners. Once inside you’ll see a well equipped stage with nice sound and an impressive lighting array. There’s pool tables and a back patio and a bar that is always staffed with a pleasant and eager-to-please barkeep. I just played there this Saturday (4-16) and Trista was the bartender, she delivered top-notch service throughout an evening that was eventful, to say the least. The guy in charge is Issac Spivey who is excellent to work with and runs a great venue. I definitely recommend stopping by if you’re ever in the Rock Hill area, they have a fine selection of draft beers and drink prices that are easy on a budget…

…In fact I just played my best show since moving to Charlotte at The Money this past Saturday (4-16-2011.) Ant from Gastonia’s Negative Six Feet was good enough to include me on the bill and it was a honor and privilige to play. I opened the show to a receptive and enthusiastic audience. I was followed by Marshall Alexander who I’ve seen several times at The Money and who’s improved immensely each time, this was easily his best performance as he powered through his set with a rapid fire bounce. Next came Ghost Unknown with his collective of “403 Mobstaz” by the sheer volume of “403 Mobstaz” shirts in the building they definitely came to make a statement, and a statement they made. Next up was a rousing, high-energy set from Abnormal, who stirred the crowed to a beer and shots fueled frenzy that knocked at least one person off of their feet. Then Negative Six Feet took the stage and treated the people to their brand of raucous microphone domination including an awesome rendition of “Pistol Grip Pump” that stole the show in my opinion.  Following that was the highly touted home town hero (well he’s from Charlotte) F. Dux leader of the Low Life Movement. Despite a set that was cut short by technical difficulties, Dux still delivered a highly entertaining set with his booming rasp and imposing stage presence. The headliner was Columbia, South Carolina’s own Lord Lhus of Snowgoons and Savage Brothers Fame. He served up his signature style of lyricism that is both raw and technically proficient and proved why he is a rising force in Hiphop in the states and abroad. The night also got REAL Hiphop during Lhus’ set, I’m not one to churn the gossip mill so I’ll leave it at that, those who were there know what I’m talking about. There were even bonus sets by the always entertaining Audible Thoughts and the perpetually intense Treymattic. Both of these acts I’ve come to know pretty well and always enjoy them. All in all, a spectacular evening of Hiphop that I was extremely happy to be a part of…

… Next stop is Twilight Caribbean Bar and Grill for NTice Music’s QC Music series info about that is right HERE