On June 21st, Tim “EX-P” Grant in conjunction with SPUTNIK debuted the SPUTNIK COMRADE CUP BEAT BATTLE hosted by Sadat X of Brand Nubian. The beat battle was judged by Illmind, Mr. Walt, Sadat X and most importantly the crowd. 

Judges eliminated producers through various rounds: Signature Round (Unique Sound/Style), 90s Remix Round (Using Any NJ Artist or Group), Boom Bap Round and Club Round. Marksmen producer, Kasper made it the finals alongside another NJ producer, Mind Design. The final round had both producers create a beat on the spot in 15 minutes using Curtis Mayfield's "Stoned Out of My Mind". Illmind, Mr. Walt and Sadat X crowned Kasper the champ of the inaugural Sputnik Comrade Cup Beat Battle.

When asked how he felt about his voctory, here is what Kasper had to say:

"The Sputnik  Beat Battle was an exciting experience which really brought out the best of all the producers competing. Despite the fact the Mr. Walt was ready to send me home after my first track, the crowd felt I needed to stick around and win the whole thing, lol!"

"Shouts to Mind Design, he kept it interesting till the last minute! The trophy was a bit over the top (8 1/2 feet tall!)  but I managed to find a place for it in my studio, wowzers. I look forward to defending the title at the next challenge, lets see what happens! Respect to everybody that came out, Mz.Entertainment & EX-P, as well as Sputnik for supporting the arts, good looks!"

Congratulations to Kasper on his victory!