The Soundclash – New Orleans premiere beat battle, hip hop showcase, and networking event – returns to the Hi-ho Lounge this Thursday, June 20. In addition to a beat battle judged by Zone Gang artist, Lil Dee God’s Gift and Jet Life producer, Monsta Beatz, the event will feature performances by Lil Dee and Dee Low. Local MC/producer Wes Beez and resident DJ RQ Away will host the evening’s proceedings, which begin at 8 pm.

Lil Dee God's Gift judges beat battle and takes the stage at June 20 soundCLASH.

In Thursday night’s beat battle, producers will go head to head in three rounds. In the first round, producers will each play one one-minute clip of an original beat for the audience and judges; then two clips in the second round and three in the third. Lil Dee and Monsta Beatz will judge the beats based on crowd appeal, originality, and execution. Producers who wish to compete must register for the battle at the Soundclash website for a fee of $25.00 (www.soundclash.com).

The winner of the battle will receive $150 cash, a Soundclash trophy, 2 hours of studio time from Inner Recess, and more. The second place winner will receive $50.   Lil Dee God’s Gift and Dee Low will both perform after the beat battle. Lil Dee has released three mixtapes in as many years, and his new single “Lay It Down,” featuring Baton Rouge phenom Kevin Gates, has earned him growing acclaim. Dee Low is another young MC who’s steadily made a name for himself through collaborations with Curren$y and other local rap royalty since his debut in 2010.

New Orleans artist Dee Low judges Thursday night's beat battle and also performs alongside Lil Dee.