A true innovator in the UK and the world of rap music and hip hop culture, South London native, Ben Chijioke aka Ty has grown into a positive force to be reckoned with. Having released four critically acclaimed albums with Big Dada Records, and now about to release his fifth album Special Kind of Fool with BBE Records, this EPK illustrates the anticipation behind this incredibly talented artist. Ty states that, “this album was about going through a certain amount of emotions and feelings… [to create] a document that is something I can say I’m happy with.” Collaborators include Erik Rico, Janet Kay, Anthony Mills, Terri Walker, and Michelle Escoffery, all selected based on Ty’s mindset of writing songs which have meaning rather than collaborating on an ego. Special Kind of Fool sounds like a labor of love, a journey into being who you truly are as an artist, and a reflection of his surroundings. Check out Ty’s EPK below. The album hits stores Feb 19th. Stay tuned.

Taking inventory of what was hot musically this year when you’re a puritan, is a difficult task. Commercially, a lot came out, and equally in the underground music world. For me, the highlights were Little Dragon, with their sophomore album and Maxwell’s long-awaited fifth album release.

Turning the challenge over to UK rapper Ty, to find out what moved him this year, you’ll see that a lot of great music from interesting artists came out this year — from solo projects, debuts, to the long-awaited. Check out Ty’s list below, and if you don’t own any of them, I suggest you treat yourself to some good music for the holidays — you deserve it.

“TY’s 2009 Top 10 Picks”

10. Q-Tip – Kamala the Abstract

9. Eric Roberson – Music Fan First

8. Raekwon – Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… Pt. II

7. Micheal Olatuja - Speak (Check him out on Youtube)

6. Noisettes - Wild Young Hearts

5. Georgia Anne Muldrow – Early

4. Shafiq Husayn – En’ A-Free Ka

3. Erik Rico – Reworks Project

2. Nneka – No Longer at Ease

1. Joy Jones – Godchild

While you’re here, watch the video of Ty during his recent visit to Amsterdam for the “Straight Up Jazz” event at The Bitterzoet. (Thanks to Moovmnt for the great footage.) Ty will be releasing his fourth studio album, A Second Kind of Fool, early 2010.