TALKIN' 253 HIP-HOP >>>

Go back to 2005-06 in yo mind. What you'll find is hip-hop hustlers still selling their new releases out of the trunks of their rides. The only online promo action is MySpace. There's no Facebook, Twitter, Reverbnation or 253hiphop.com. It was just music and grind.

These days were ruled by Jay Barz, Island Trybe and Mr. Von. - names still on top of the game. It's a testament to their brands that they are still top spitters though the game has changed.

This month we welcome back Tacoma's own "Flame-Thrower," Mr. Von.

To read Josh Rizeberg's full "What's the Word?" column on Mr. Von and his This Thing of Ours  release click here.