TJ Upshaw Drops Video For "Put You On"
R&B singer TJ Upshaw dropped a dope visual for his single “Put You On”
By: Omar Cook
R&B singer TJ Upshaw dropped a dope visual for his single “Put You On”. The song is the perfect summertime track to vibe to and the video itself definitely brings out that summertime feeling as well. TJ was recently featured on BET’s The Next Big Thing. He continues to put out great music, so be on the lookout for his next releases!
TJ Upshaw - Put You On
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Jhamasa Performs Live At Late Sunday Afternoon
Singer Jhamasa put on a soulful performance live at Late Sunday Afternoon in Los Angeles. We caught up with Jhamasa after her performance to talk new music, inspiration and more!
By: Omar Cook
Singer Jhamasa performed live at Late Sunday Afternoon in Los Angeles. Jhamasa put on a dope soulful performance showcasing some of her hottest songs. We caught up with Jhamasa after her performance to talk new music, inspiration and more! Check it out below!
Jhamasa Performs Live @ Late Sunday Afternoon + Interview!
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Shawn Tuck Talks The Release Of His Mixtape "Product Of My Environment"
West Coast rapper Shawn Tuck dropped his first project Product Of My Environment, and it certainly did not disappoint. We talked with Shawn in an exclusive interview about the making of this mixtape!
By: Omar Cook
West Coast rapper Shawn Tuck dropped his first project Product Of My Environment, and it certainly did not disappoint. Shawn hails from Orange County, California, born and raised and is a former collegiate football player who turned to music. This project features 10 songs that you can run through with no skips. It features a dope blend of vocals and real life lyrics that keeps you nodding your head all the way through. This artist has an original flow and sound that is unique and will definitely have you looking forward to the next project. If you’re needing something to vibe to, this is for you.
We talked with Shawn Tuck in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: What was your inspiration for the title of this project?
Shawn Tuck: I went through a number of title options actually. But, when I started getting closer and closer to setting a release date, I started thinking to myself that I wanted people to know me for me and what I am really about. When it comes to my stage name it’s just Shawn Tuck, there is no persona to hide behind, so all the way down to my name, i’m the Product Of My Environment.
QUESTION: What do you want people to know about your music and this project?
Shawn Tuck: What I want people to get from my music, is that it really is music that you can vibe to, something you can ride to, but at the same time turn up too. Being that this is my first project, I tried my best to give it an “album” feel as best as I could.
QUESTION: What do you feel is a song that people MUST listen to on this project?
Shawn Tuck: I got a few that I think honestly, but I’ve been getting the best response from ‘On The Low’. That’s definitely a rider right there.
QUESTION: How did you generate ideas for the songs on this mixtape?
Shawn Tuck: To be honest it kind of all just fell into place. I would just find beats and then write/freestyle to them and I just started to see a pattern of how the songs laid out and it just perfectly reflected my life to where I’m at right now.
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Shawn Tuck: Shoot, I’ve been making music for about 9 years now. It all started when I was out at The University Of Idaho on a football scholarship. We would be parties and I would find myself tucked off in the corner free styling to beats. I wasn’t necessarily great but I could kind of tell it came with ease and sometimes would have people ask me if I had written what I just rapped.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Shawn Tuck: My family, meaning my wife and my daughter. I just want to be able to provide the best way that I can. For me, success is seeing my daughter grow into this great human being with still being able to see qualities of myself in her. It’s a constant reminder to let me know I’m doing a good job. Especially when others vouch for me.
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Shawn Tuck: I would say passion! Just because I want this so bad and I feel like you can hear it in my music.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Shawn Tuck: Man! A LOT!! From working 3 jobs, working at chipotle, currently working preload for UPS just to be able to have hours through the day to spend with my daughter AND to be able to get stuff done musically!
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Shawn Tuck: Just keep going, stay true to you, and stay genuine!
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Who's Hot: 3 East Coast Artists On The Rise
Highlighting a few hard working artists who are truly dope in their own right, here are 3 East Coast artists that are on the rise that you should know about!
By: Tasha Hough
We celebrated Black Music Appreciation Month during the month of June, but let’s keep it going by briefly highlighting a few hard working artists who are truly dope in their own right, and deserve all the shine that’s coming their way. It’s important to continue to support and give people their flowers while they can still receive them. Here are 3 East Coast artists that are on the rise that you should know about!
1. Terry Mak
Starting this off with Jersey originated Terry Mak; a soulful, eclectic, rapper/singer & curator of vibes. The latest release from him is, “Chanel No.5 (Stuck On You)" with Kai Young. Instantly this song brings a nice summer, warm and wanting love kind of feel. Makes me want to pull up on my boo honestly lol. On his project “I Mean Well”, I feel compelled to go on a long drive and let the music take me to my destination.
What grabs my attention the most by Terry is that he is doing his own thing, and doing it freely! He keeps creating his own mold which always ensures originality with his own sound on everything he releases. His aura, fashion, music, and presence are all in sync and I love that he does it all with confidence. His uniqueness is very rare in this day and age. His vibes are just as genuine in person. I can tell he has a great sense of self which provides an assuredness that you're sure to see in his work.
Already receiving love from all over the nation, I know for sure Terry will gain all sorts of momentum worldwide just from simply doing what he’s doing. Keep up with him for upcoming shows and new releases on his heat on social media @flyterrymak and of course find his music everywhere you stream music. https://fanlink.to/ChanNo5. Go check him out immediately!
2. Dom O Briggs
Next, we move on to Brooklyn based artist Dom O Briggs. Limitless is one of the most accurate descriptions of him. Though he’s been making music for years, I got put on to him recently with his song “King of RnB”. Heard that song once and became a fan right away. Listening to it instantly makes you feel… Sexy. I can’t really pinpoint it but the beat and flow of if it all just feels too good.
From listening to that, I definitely quickly went back to his music as late as “Litrell Sprewell” from 2017 where you can hear more of him rapping which made me more intrigued because it shows off his versatility. I love when artists aren’t boxed in for years with a repetitive or mundane sound. Wearing many hats (go cop one of his “Squadly” caps), Dom O Briggs is also hilarious & being a comedian is something he makes sure to highlight in his music as well. Some of his bars will literally make you laugh while making you think and I find that keeps me extremely interested in hearing the next line.
He’s consistent with his releases, so whether it’s a fun remix to a theme show on ig, music, or him performing his hilarious sets during stand up, he is someone to keep on your radar. Go listen to him wherever you stream music https://linktr.ee/chancletapapi_ & follow him now on Instagram and Twitter @Chancletapapi_ make sure you show him love!
3. NickyClvlnd
Last but certainly not least, we move on to Ohio native, NickyClvlnd. He is definitely an artist to keep a close eye on. Delivering an array of sounds, tapping into his creativity further, you really never know what’s coming next from him; except that it will for sure be heat. He doesn’t offer fluff or hype with his music, which I appreciate because that just allows the talent to speak clearly for itself. No gimmicks. Just straight, raw talent whenever he drops.
NickyClvlnd isn’t the kind of artist where it will be the same sound, or the same song repeatedly, while saying absolutely nothing continuously for minutes.No. If you like actual rapping, with actual bars, actual flow with constant entendres, he is who you should be listening to RIGHT NOW. You honestly won’t know if the next song will be him singing, rapping or if you’ll be turnt. On his latest release, “Jokes On You”, available on SoundCloud, he switched up his flow quite a bit. Definitely more on the turnt side which as a fan I was impressed with.
Not too many artist can switch up their sound completely and still make it dope without sounding forced yet he succeeds. Though it’s hard for me to choose my favorite song on this project , it might be “STFU” because he’s literally calmly telling certain people to stfu lmao. I guess that’s what happens when you bother someone as chill & collected as NickyClvlnd. On “Memory Lane”, available wherever you stream music, it’s just 1000 dope bars over different dope beats.
He shows a more open, and vulnerable side to him through the lyrics. He’s not really an “in your face” kind of artist, the mystique approach he has allows you to realize that It’s not just music, it’s an experience if you just listen closely. Despite his social media handles being @LeaveNickyAlone make sure you follow him on ig & twitter as well as click https://linktr.ee/NickyClvlnd to stay up to date with everything he's working on.
Thanks for reading, checking out these artist & be sure to stream upcoming, new, indie artist music daily.
"Support is free" - @lekurokami
-Tasha H @tashatalks_alot
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Kafar Myers Drops Video For "Ex's and Dubs"
East Coast rapper Kafar Myers dropped a dope visual for his single “Ex’s and Dubs" where he talks about dealing with past relationships. Kafar details the difficulties of falling in love and moving on, check it out here!
By: Omar Cook
East Coast rapper Kafar Myers dropped a dope visual for his single “Ex’s and Dubs" where he talks about dealing with past relationships. Kafar details the difficulties of falling in love and moving on, check it out below!
KAFAR MYERS - EX'S AND DUBS (PROD OTHELLO BEATS )[SHOT&EDITED BY PAINFULLY GIFTED VISUALS]
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Who's Hot? 7 New Artists You Need To Know Vol. 4
We're giving you our 4th edition of 7 of the hottest new artists that may be flying under your radar! These are artists who are ready to change the landscape of hip hop and let their talents fly! Check them out here!
By: Omar Cook
We're giving you our 4th edition of 7 of the hottest new artists that may be flying under your radar! These are artists who are ready to change the landscape of hip hop and let their talents fly! Check them out here!
1. CASHMA
“Create art you’re proud of. Create your own world . It’s only fun if you’re enjoying the moment. The build is way better than any “top spot”.”
Destiny Cashma has had some instant success dropping two EP’s in just less than a year called “Incognito” which was her first project that debuted top 10 on the charts and her sophomore project “I Had To” which debuted Top 8. CASHMA is a dope vocalist from Georgia who calls herself “the happy loner”. Some of her hottest tracks include “Lonesome Sh*t” to fan favorites “I Don’t Wanna” and “Company”! CASHMA believes her work is bigger than just music and that she stands for the “weirdos”, the loners and the ones without a voice. She is currently working closely with producer Mike Kalombo and Kalombo Records CASHMA says she just enjoys the journey of it all and being a natural creator. If you don’t already have this artist in your playlist, this is one you need to have. CASHMA is a talented new artist that is unique in her style and delivery and has a tracklist that is full of good vibes.
Cashma - Do Something (Official Video)
2. Some Guy Named Lee
“Grind is my biggest record to date but it’s hard to say what is my best song, it changes per mood. Right now I would say my verse for Riff Blanco’s Sky is the limit is my favorite though. ”
East Coast rapper “Some Guy Named Lee” is origininaly from Buffalo, New York but currently calls Atlanta home. Lee spent a few semesters in College at Niagara University and hasn’t had much time for much outside of music since pursuing it full time. This rapper doesn’t have a long catalogue of music, but just about every track he has dropped is flames. This is an artist who sounds like he’s been in the game for a minute but is really just getting started. Lee has a dope flow mixed with some laid back beats and is definitely an artist you need to watch out for.
Some Guy Named Lee - Grind Featuring JCDAREBEL (Official Video)
Some Guy Named Lee - Playing Around
3. Lylo Gold
“Life is my motivation. Life is all about balance, progression, growth and love. I try to treat the world how I want to be treated. I try to be as loving as I can... I believe that we are all connected and all contribute to the state of the world. That makes me responsible. It means I know my place in the world and what I need to contribute to the world.”
London based R&B songstress Lylo Gold recently released her debut album entitled ‘Heartache & Wray’, following a turbulent relationship which featured an array of melodic sounds that introduces you into her own world. This artist is building an impressive resume with over 250,000 accrued plays on Spotify and has also been featured on The Fader, The MOBO's Ones to Watch and The AfroPunk Playlist, making her an artist to watch throughout the UK and beyond. Lylo Gold began singing at a young age of 11, and now at 25 years old, she has gone on to compose, write and co-produce an array of songs alongside a variety of artists. She is mostly known for some iconic releases including Starry Night & Over U, which were produced by frequent collaborator XVR BLCK. The UK has a number of talented artists, and Lylo Gold is another proven talent coming out of London. This artist has a voice that needs to be heard and don’t be surprised if you start hearing her name more in the near future!
Lylo Gold - Forget You
4. Jhamasa
Jhamasa Noel Lewis-Adams is originally from Orange, California but moved around as a youth, and spent most of her childhood in Los Angeles, California. In 2014 she released a mixtape Retro Love Arcade with Corinthian Washington and in 2016, she put out an independent EP, titled 24K. On this project she talks about her experience in the foster care system. In April of 2018, Jhamasa hosted an independent art show focusing on sexual trauma foster youth face through art therapy. In addition, she released a single off of her debut project 11:11. In her free time she volunteers and advocates for educational and civil rights for foster youth.
This singer brings a soulful vibe to her music and is definitely someone you want to add to your playlist! Jhamasa has an authentic sound that makes you feel good about the future of R&B.
Beautiful Day (Official Music Video) - J H A M A S A
5. TJ Upshaw
“Most of my music is just life situations. Lifeʼs feelings. I have people that come to me for advice at times... itʼs just so much that gives me inspiration musically. I really just try to make music that people can relate and vibe to. ”
Detroit R&B artist and songwriter TJ Upshaw is bringing back the true sound and soul of R&B music. He recently dropped his new single “ONE 4 HER”, where his vocals capture the audience’s attention with a genuine feeling of passion and emotion. TJ developed his gifted talent for music growing up singing in multiple choirs and male quartet groups. He has recorded two mixtapes and just recently released his sophomore EP, "One 4 Her". This rising singer has had the opportunity to perform at many live venues between Detroit and LA at universities and clubs, opening for mainstream artists such as Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean, Eric Bellinger, Sammie, Dwele and J Drew Sheard and Day26. This an artist that you should definitely add to your playlist if you like real R&B, don’t sleep!
TJ Upshaw - Options
6. Narde
“Most of my ideas from music come from experience, either from myself or others. I am an empath, so it is very easy for me to put myself in other people’s shoes and try to understand what they are feeling. That’s my favorite place to make music from, the perspective of others.”
Narde hails from Richmond, Virginia and was raised by her mother and music, which took the place of her father. While attending college at VCU, she began making music that she felt wasn’t like anything she heard before, and started to take it more seriously once people began listening and showing interest. After graduation, she left everything she knew and traveled out to Los Angeles to pursue her music career. Narde has a sound unlike any other artist out, authentic to her own style. “I describe my music to others as smokers music, very groovy and thoughtful. Nothing to twerk to. Just something you can vibe too, it’s calming, hypnotizing.”
Come See Me - Narde
7. Tr3 Ali
“My music is my within realm, externalized without on this plane of existence. It is the electromagnetic vibration of my soul brought into density.”
East Coast lyricist, Tr3 Ali hails from North Miami, Florida, where he started rapping in the 7th grade with some friends in Math class. He used to write down everything that was playing in his head, and wrote 1 or 2 songs a day. Tr3 Ali is an artist that embodies what a true lyricist is and gives off a 90s hip hop vibe with his delivery. This artist is slept on but he delivers some real rap music that should be in your playlist!
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Anthiny King Talks Release Of His New Album "Parallels"
R&B singer Anthiny King dropped his new album Parallels and it is full of good vibes! We talked with Anthiny in an exclusive interview about the making of this album, creative inspiration and more!
By: Omar Cook
R&B singer Anthiny King dropped his new album Parallels and it is full of good vibes! The album features 11 tracks that you can play all the way through with no skips and it will not disappoint. Anthony Jerome Lezama Jr., better known by his stage name Anthiny King was born in Manhattan, New York, November 20, 1990. Raised between Harlem and Brooklyn, Anthiny is an independent American rapper, singer-songwriter and producer of West Indian Descent. He spent most of his younger years in harlem where he began writing down rhymes at the age of 14 influenced by a close friend in High School. Since releasing a few mixtapes and EPs, he’s worked on and been apart of songs with the likes of Jadakiss, Fabolous, Bun B, Jae Millz & Loaded Lux just to name a few.
Anthiny King - Sonic Silhouettes S2:E3 | DON'T LOSE
We talked with Anthiny King in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: What was your inspiration for the title of this project?
Anthiny King: At one point in time in life when I was 17 and done with High School, I had made this conscious decision to pursue music as a career. Creatively I was in this very big imaginative state and it felt like I could make anything I had in my mind. Over the course of the next decade into this current time, I would experience so many things in life that would either strip me of my inspiration and confidence or help me gain it but the feeling I had at 17 had never quite got back to me in the midst of these challenges. Now on this present day that reinvigorating energy I carry now parallels where I was 11 years ago. The two lines i once walked faithfully with me either being an artist/creative or an audio engineer/songwriter had lead me back to this road when I started believing again. I feel like the art aspect between those two lines parallel each other as it takes just about the same effort from both to actually make something special.
QUESTION: What do you want people to know about your music and this project?
Anthiny King: This album finally came together after my so many hiatuses… and for that I apologize to everyone who’d been waiting all the while. I had planned to release a full length project a few years back but I felt I wasn’t emotionally there yet. I think I simply just had more life to experience and other personal things with myself to get over before I could put the finalization on anything. I also want people to know that I personally recorded, mixed and mastered this album from top to bottom myself. So you’re getting a thorough listen of ME. I wanted to control the sonics of my ideas.
QUESTION: What do you feel is a song that people MUST listen to on this project?
Anthiny King: I can’t really think of anything specific when it comes to Parallels. You’d just have to experience it in full.
QUESTION: How did you generate ideas for the songs on this Prelude?
Anthiny King: Nothing was forced. I think I let my heart lead me through the whole process. Every song on here is genuinely inspired whether it be by my personal life, a family or friend’s situation, or me wanting to create a moment for myself to help me tap back into the days of young when my grandparents, mother and father would play me these amazing tunes spanning between the early 60’s and the late 90’s. These were “the good ol’ days”.
QUESTION: What separates this project from your past projects?
Anthiny King: This is the most focused project I’ve ever put together. Past releases were labeled as Mixtapes, Compilations, EPs… but this is my first Album. This project to me just seems the most put together in terms of introducing myself and my talent in the way that’s able to help you understand me more clearer than ever. I’ve watched a lot of my favorites like Kanye West, J. Cole, Sade, Drake, Jay-Z, Pharrell put out these growing brands of sound with each project they release. Doing some of that studying had helped me put things into perspective and compassed the sound of the album.
QUESTION: How long have you been making music and how did you get started?
Anthiny King: I’ve been doing this since I was 14. I was always very fond of it even at a younger age. What got me started were these lunch room freestyles me and a good friend would kick everyday. I admired his skills so much that I started working on mines and fast forward, I’m home recording whole songs on this tape recorder my mom would use to catch her church sermons. I had bought this PS2 video game MTV Music Generator 3 which had dropped the same year of 2004. It allowed me to create my own beats and remixes. I would make the beat, write the song and then have to record the whole song in 1 take on the tape recorder. Lol I’d hate when my siblings would mess it up by making noise even when I would tell them to be quiet for a few minutes. I must’ve recorded a lot of songs like 10 times each at least. The rest is history.
QUESTION: What motivates you and how do you define success?
Anthiny King: My people. My close ones. My loved ones. I do everything not only for me… but for them as well. It’s bigger than me. It’s about inspiring others to push themselves to their greater potentials while pushing for your own. Success to me is taking care of you and yours and fulfilling your purpose. Being emotionally, spiritually and physically healthy is one of the greatest successes of all time in my opinion.
QUESTION: Which emotion more than any other, currently dominates your music? Joy, sadness, anger or passion etc. , and why?
Anthiny King: I let all emotions take their place in my music. But to center it all I’ll say everything comes down to joy and sadness...but mostly joy… there’s a lot of things that make us happy… and a lot that makes us sad. I never shy away from tapping into those emotions to get a point across because life is forever giving us our best times one minute and then in the next everything’s to s***. You will always hear my music and be able time travel to that moment in your life when things were “right”... I make this music from a real place. I just want everyone to feel good when they listen.
QUESTION: What sacrifices have you had to make, to make your dream a reality?
Anthiny King: I just really had to focus up and that task doesn’t get any easier. Focusing up to achieve the things I truly want included less time with family, friends, girlfriends, etc. No one will ever understand what it takes to attain certain things musically until you submerge yourself into your craft. It has to go undistracted during long periods of time. It’s easier said than done.
QUESTION: What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
Anthiny King: Be your biggest believer. No one is going to believe it the way they should if you don’t. And always remain true to you. Your energy must at all times be protected. Those who don’t understand you creatively now… will later… you just have to continue on with your ascension. And aim to improve. Respect your peers and the ones that came before you. Study your sound and confidently grow it.
QUESTION: If you had one message to give to your fans what would it be?
Anthiny King: We’re all designers in this lifetime… if you have ideas… never be afraid to clothe the people in them because you never know who’s going to make it their favorite outfit.
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Artist Spotlight: Jhamasa Talks Live Performance, New Music and More!
Los Angeles singer, Jhamasa, put on a live performance at Tha Juice Joint in Hollywood. We caught up with Jhamasa for an exclusive interview talking new music, performing live, and much more!
By: Omar Cook
Los Angeles singer Jhamasa recently performed at Tha Juice Joint in Hollywood where she put on a dope live performance! Jhamasa performed her new song “Cold Blue” for the first time live . We talked with Jhamasa about her new single, upcoming music and much more in an exclusive interview. Check out her live performance and interview below!
Artist Spotlight: Jhamasa Talks Live Performance, New Music and More!
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Sullivan Drops New Single "Hold On"
Southern rapper Sullivan dropped a new single called “Hold On” ft Mike J. This track has a laid back vibe where he talks about staying strong and pushing through.
By: Omar Cook
Southern rapper Sullivan dropped a new single called “Hold On” ft Mike J. This track has a laid back vibe where he talks about staying strong and pushing through. Sullivan dropped his album Evil Scientist earlier this year. Check out the song below!
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William Prize Drops New Single "Im Not Perfect"
North Carolina rapper William Prize dropped a dope new single called "Im Not Perfect" where he talks some of his pitfalls and faults from his past! Listen to it here!
By: Omar Cook
North Carolina rapper William Prize dropped a dope new single called "Im Not Perfect" where he talks some of his pitfalls and faults from his past! Prize recently dropped his album Mind Games and is continuing to bring the heat with new music. Check it out below!
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Trey Forever Drops New Single "Anxious"
R&B artist Trey Forever dropped a new song called "Anxious". Listen here!
By: Omar Cook
R&B artist Trey Forever dropped his first single since releasing his “2 Days N Forever” EP earlier this year. Trey Forever dropped a hot new song called “Anxious”, which tells the story of patiently waiting for that person you truly want. This a laid back vibe that is sure to be on repeat!
Trey Forever - So Anxious (Official Audio)
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My Letter To Nipsey: "Your Music Helped Inspire Me And Keeps Me Going"
With the tragic death of one of Hip Hop’s icons, staff writer James Teague pens an open letter to Nipsey Hussle, discussing the impact the music has had on his life and millions around the world!
By: James Teague
Throughout my 28 years of living, I was never the type that cried over a celebrity’s death. It just wasn’t my style. I managed to handle such celeb deaths such as Bernie Mac, Michael Jackson, & most recently, Mac Miller. For the most part I’ve gained an idea of how I’m able to handle death simply because it is simply part of the life process. However, with your passing this past Sunday evening, things really hit different for me. I was in the middle of recording my Upcoming podcast when I had got the news. I was shocked and didn’t know how to feel about the incident and when a picture of your body popped up on my Twitter time line, I got sick. I could only pray and wish for the best for you. But then God called you home and that tore the entire team up.
For the first time ever, I found myself locked in a bathroom crying and shedding tears over your death. This incident came as a complete left turn that just ruined my entire productive Sunday. It was so crazy for me realizing and seeing myself crying over your death because it was as if I had lost a family member/mentor. Your music has helped shaped my way of thinking and has gotten me through the tough years in my life. I was introduced to your music back in 2009 when “Hussle in the House” dropped. I was intrigued by the energy you were spreading on that record and had me thinking you was the spawn of Snoop Dogg.
That following year I followed you on your new Mixtape “The Marathon” and that mixtape played a pivotal role during my sophomore year in College. Your music along with all of the other peers that was involved in the “Blog Era” helped play a huge role in me growing into becoming the Man that I am today. The one song that stood out the most to me from your mixtape was “Bigger than Life,” the final cut that played right after “I Don’t Give a Fuck.” At that time, I couldn’t completely comprehend all of the things you were saying on that record, however I knew and understood that everything you were speaking on came from a place of sincerity. That was the day I really had became a fan of your music.
Your whole entire catalog has played a tremendous role in my life as I was transitioning from college kid to college graduate to young adult making his way through life. Your coming out party to the world was the infamous “Crenshaw” mixtape hosted by DJ Drama, which is probably one of my top favorite projects from you ever right next to Victory Lap the album. I remember during this time period I was fresh out of college working in my moms office while just starting off my freelance writing career writing for Elite Daily. I remember when you were talking about the “Proud to Pay” campaign, we all were nuts for thinking what we thought because it was so out of the ordinary and out of the box. Me personally I was intrigued by this but wasn’t sure what to expect from charging your CD $100.
Nipsey Hussle - Crenshaw Blvd
But sure enough you stuck with your guns and when the music was officially released, it did the proper numbers it was supposed to. You even had Jay-Z show his support by buying 100 copies of your CD. It just goes to show that real recognizes real and he saw the potential in you from jump street. As a Black Creative that’s still working towards creating a plan that matches the vision of where I see my life trajectory, your music has helped inspire me and keeps me going through this Marathon we call life. Giving us free game, telling us to trust the process and trust our gut and to have the upmost faith in ourselves and what we do.
Throughout these years leading up to God calling you home, you’ve shaped yourself into becoming the example of what a strong powerful black man is supposed to be and for that I’m forever grateful for you giving all of us the gems we needed to hear. It sucks that you were taken away from us so soon because you were JUST starting to get into your prime. From being fresh off go a Grammy Nomination for your classic debut album Victory Lap to releasing your new single Racks in the Middle with Roddy Rich and also working on creating a collaborative effort with Meek Mill. You also were focusing a lot more on building your community up through new business ventures.
God bless your family, especially Lauren London and your kids because they really need to be surrounded by as much love as possible. Nipsey you may no longer be here with us in the physical form but through your music, interviews and wise words spoken, your spirit will forever live on in us. I think I can speak for all creatives and entrepreneurs affected by this death when I say we HAVE to continue keeping your legacy alive through our work and endeavors. More than ever now, it’s up to us to really focus and shape ourselves into discovering our potential and putting our best foot down in our endeavors. Either way it goes, The Marathon continues for us and we’re going to hold you down and celebrate your life by picking up where you left off. Long Live Neighborhood Nip !!!
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Reggae Sensation Etana Talks Grammy Nomination And Breaking Barriers For Women In Reggae
Female reggae sensation, Etana, was the first female in 21 years to be nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Reggae Album category. We talked with Etana about her Grammy awards experience and breaking barriers for women in Reggae!
By: Omar Cook
Female reggae sensation, Etana, was the first female in 21 years to be nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Reggae Album category. The last time a female artist was nominated in the category was in 1997 when Sister Carol received a nomination. Etana’s Reggae Forever album was nominated alongside Black Uhuru for As the World Turns, Ziggy Marley for Rebellion Rises, Protoje for A Matter of Time and Grammy Award winners for Best Reggae Album, Sting & Shaggy for 44/876.
Etana, whose real name is Shauna McKenzie, is a soulful singer and songwriter. She made international waves with her fifth album Reggae Forever which debuted the Billboard Reggae Chart at number one. Her fourth album I Rise also debuted the Billboard Reggae Chart at number one and her album Better Tomorrow debuted the Billboard Reggae Chart at number seven. Etana made history as the first female with back-to-back top albums on the Billboard Reggae Chart. Her unique sound blends Roots Reggae with flavors of Folk, Soul, and Jazz.
Etana is an artist that is breaking barriers for women in Reggae and her success is giving other women pursuing a music career inspiration to keep pushing. Etana speaks about her 2019 Grammy Awards experience and hitting the red carpet at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, CA!
Etana - Free Part 2
We talked with Etana in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
QUESTION: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN MAKING MUSIC AND HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?
Etana: I've been singing since I was eight years old. I wanted to be a nurse or a doctor but music called me in and I knew music was it for me. I started professionally in music in 2000.
QUESTION: MUSICALLY, WHO HAS BEEN YOUR BIGGEST INFLUENCE IN HELPING YOU ALONG YOUR JOURNEY AND WHO ARE YOUR FAVORITE MUSICIANS?
Etana: Bob Marley, Jay-Z, Bruno Mars, Beyonce to Dolly Parton. They sing about their own life experiences. That speaks to me. When you listen to songs that explores life experiences especially to things that we can all relate to, you're sure to love it. I feel my music connects with people as they can relate to my songs either they have those same experiences or may be experiencing it right now.
Etana on the Red Carpet at the Grammy Awards 2019
QUESTION: YOUR ALBUM REGGAE FOREVER WAS NOMINATED FOR BEST REGGAE ALBUM THIS YEAR AT THE GRAMMYS! WHAT WAS YOUR INITIAL FEELING WHEN YOU FOUND OUT YOU WERE NOMINATED AND WHAT WAS THE GRAMMY EXPERIENCE LIKE SHARING THE NOMINATION WITH OTHER GREAT REGGAE ARTISTS SUCH AS STING, SHAGGY, BLACK UHURU, AND ZIGGY MARLEY?
Etana: So excited! It's an honor that Reggae Forever has been recognized by the Recording Academy with a Best Reggae Album nomination and to be amongst these talented nominated artists and award-winning artists. I'm truly delighted to have made an album independently that was well received by so many people around the world.
QUESTION: YOU WERE THE FIRST FEMALE IN 21 YEARS TO BE NOMINATED FOR A GRAMMY AWARD IN THE BEST REGGAE ALBUM CATEGORY. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON REPRESENTING WOMEN IN REGGAE AND WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED TO BREAK BARRIERS?
Etana: Having five albums that have all rocketed to the Billboard Reggae Chart is impressive. Being the first female in 21 years to be nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Reggae Album category is monumental. The last time that a female was nominated in the category was in 1997 when Sister Carol received a nomination. I'm a reggae artist who wants to preserve and grow our music and to promote love and inspire, so that it makes way for endless opportunities for reggae artists to have. Women in reggae have come a long way but we still have a long way to go and I intend on breaking as many closed doors and barriers as much as possible.
Etana - I Rise | Official Music Video
QUESTION: WHAT DO YOU FEEL IS YOUR BEST SONG/PROJECT EVER RELEASED AND WHY?
Etana: All of them! I'm proud of all of them! My album Reggae Forever. I was extremely happy when I learned that my first independent project made it to number one and was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Reggae album. The album is distributed by Tad's Records. I think audiences appreciate that Reggae Forever was independently produced, it's eclectic and the main message is love as well as it tells many stories and keeps the listener engaged.
QUESTION: WHAT PROJECTS CAN WE LOOK FORWARD TO IN THE NEAR FUTURE?
Etana: I'm in the process with my sixth studio album and I’m looking forward to releasing a single from that album soon. I will be going on tour in the U.S. this year and will be touring the U.K and other countries.
For up-to-the-minute news and information on my music and shows, visit www.etantathestrongone.com and follow at Facebook @OneEtana and Instagram @EtanaStrongOne and Twitter @EtanaStrongOne.
QUESTION: HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOUR MUSIC TO PEOPLE AND WHAT SEPARATES YOU FROM OTHER ARTISTS IN YOUR GENRE?
Etana: My sound blends Roots Reggae with flavors of Folk, Soul, and Jazz. My music has a bit of everything for everyone. It is wonderful to see many audiences deeply connected to my music.
QUESTION: WHAT SACRIFICES HAVE YOU HAD TO MAKE TO SEE YOUR DREAM BECOME A REALITY AND WHAT ARE SOME OBSTACLES THAT YOU HAVE OVERCOME?
Etana: We all go through hardships and sacrifices especially experiences throughout our life that shape us. Everything that I have experienced up to now has shaped me into the person I am today. I'm still learning and growing and feel that through hard work, perseverance, determination, knowledge, and self love is important to have and to continue it through life.
QUESTION: WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AND YOUR MUSIC IN 5 YEARS?
Etana: I want to continue to make hits and to continue to make great music that people want to listen to. Two levels up at a time or more.
Etana - Spread Love (Official Music Video)
QUESTION: WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER UP AND COMING ARTISTS OR PEOPLE LOOKING TO BREAK INTO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY?
Etana: Always work hard, keep improving your music and sound and believe in yourself.
QUESTION: IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT ARE SOME KEYS TO BECOMING A SUCCESSFUL MUSIC ARTIST?
Etana: Keep learning and growing. Continue to make great music and for longevity. Knowing as much about the business of music is important as well.
QUESTION: WITH IT BEING BLACK HISTORY MONTH, MUSIC HAS PLAYED AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN THE HISTORY OF AFRICAN AMERICANS! WHAT LEGACY ARE YOU LOOKING TO LEAVE BEHIND WITH YOUR MUSIC?
Etana: African American musicians and producers have made huge contributions to the history of music. As an African American female it is important to continue to enrich the culture of music. I want to make a lasting impression in the minds and hearts of little girls and boys of all races, religion, and lifestyles, all across the world.
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Nayome Drops New Single "What You Need"
R&B singer Nayome dropped a hot new single called “What You Need”! Nayome brings a soulful vibe to this track and is showing us that real R&B still exists.
By: Omar Cook
R&B singer Nayome dropped a hot new single called “What You Need”! This up and coming artist out of Texas has been consistent with dropping good music and is not slowing up since dropping her debut EP R E C O V E R E D + in 2018. Nayome brings a soulful vibe to this track and is showing us that real R&B still exists.
“My homie Billy sent me a collection of beats and when I came across this particular beat, I was like, “Ohhhh wait a minute now, we gone have to do something to this one.” The words, “You tell me…What you need” were the first words to slip out of my mouth before I gave the whole track a listen. That pretty much set the tone for the song and I wanted to challenge myself to become more lyrical with this song. So I really settled on the feeling of loving someone so much, that one be willing to just be ready to do about anything they need. (Cant relate haha) but I wrote in the perspective of speaking to myself and what I would want. “Living in a different era wit cha, I wanna spend my endeavors with ya. I want you to invade my space and lay with meh till eternity,” Thats quite the feeling and I wouldn’t want to settle for anything less. What you need is really referring to what I desire. I hope when people listen they are reminded of their loved ones or excited about their desires.” - Nayome
CHECK IT OUT HERE!
Find this song on all major platforms here — https://fanlink.to/bsvp
Nayome - What You Need
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Lona Drops New Single "Time 2 Time"
Houston rapper Lona dropped a new single called “Time 2 Time”! In this track he discusses situationships and how people find comfort in these types or relationships. Lona dropped his album 346 back in October and is starting the year off right with some hot new music.
“The inspiration came from women in my past & things i’d been going through. It was me looking in the mirror asking myself how I end up in similar situations. So the song was kind of me owning up like I know you don’t want me but I play along cause I like the company, usually because of the lack of self worth. I really wanted people to maybe see part of themselves in the record, cause situationships dominate this time we’re in.”
CHECK IT OUT HERE!
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Joshua Sheeran Drops New Single "Blessings"
Joshua Sheeran dropped a hot new single called “Blessings”! Coming off of his recent EP titled Only If You Knew, this artist isn’t slowing up with bringing you some dope vibes.
By: Omar Cook
Joshua Sheeran dropped a hot new single called “Blessings”! Coming off of his recent EP titled Only If You Knew, this artist isn’t slowing up with bringing you some dope vibes.
“I had just got up from hanging with my homie Jaz. I remember going to her crib with friends and her family. I had met her mom years ago and we just clicked super well. Jaz mom threw the lob for me to get with her daughter. Lol so we started kicking it more. Jaz came over one morning and I told her I was gonna make a song in 30 minutes. This was created, I caught a melody and flow. Freestyled every verse and the hook. It was a funny ass process for sure.”
CHECK IT OUT HERE!
Joshua Sheeran - “Blessings”
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10 Years Ago Drake Dropped His Classic Mixtape "So Far Gone"
10 years ago today dropped his classic mixtape So Far Gone! This nostalgic tape stamped Drake as a music artist showing that he had much more to offer outside of acting.
By: Omar Cook
10 years ago today dropped his classic mixtape So Far Gone! This was Drake’s third official mixtape after Room For Improvement and Comeback Season. It’s crazy the amount of growth and success we’ve seen from Drake over the years, and it’s inspiring. I can remember watching Drake on Degrassi, then “Replacement Girl” with Trey Songz dropped and I was damn, Jimmy rapping now? Jimmy was just who he was at the time, but Drizzy has evolved into a straight hitmaker who seems to be shooting 100 percent from the field. Just about every project has been solid, and So Far Gone is debatably one of his best projects.
It’s hard to even choose a favorite track from this project as this is one those rare mixtapes where you can listen all the way through, no skips. Drake has switched up his flow delivery over the years but still has managed to stay atop of the music charts by evolving with the times, but this tape is classic Drizzy and gives you nostalgia. It’s almost hard to believe it’s been 10 years since this tape dropped, I can even remember when it dropped because I had it on repeat. I was senior in high school when this came out and “Brand New”, “Ignant Shit”, and “Best I Ever Had” saw about 10 plays respectively a day from me. The vibes on this tape were unreal and “Brias Interlude” and “A Night Off’ took this tape to the next level with the R&B feels.
Who really knew that Drake would blow up to be one of the biggest artists in the world, but he stamped himself with this mixtape and showed that his talent went way farther than acting. Check out the tape below and comment what your favorite track from this classic mixtape was.
Drake - Lust For Life [So Far Gone Mixtape]
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Where Were You When The College Dropout Released?
On February 10, 2004, The College Dropout by Kanye West was released. Whether you love or hate Kanye West now, you can’t deny the social impact this album had in 2004 and beyond.
The College Dropout by Kanye West
By: Eric Lewis
On February 10, 2004, The College Dropout by Kanye West was released. I remember where I was vividly. I had just moved back home to Louisiana from Houston, Texas. It was a turbulent time for me. I had been in Houston for almost 2 years with hopes of making a name for myself in the 4th largest city in America. My relationship at the time was a real rocky one, and my little girl was almost 2 years old. I was feeling down on myself and at a job where I felt I wasn’t appreciated. I knew this menial job was something just to have, but I still had the feeling in my heart of something greater eventually coming for me. I would gravitate to music to be my outlet and my escape from the trapped feeling I had. This was around the time Jay-Z was riding high with the “retirement album”, The Black Album. One of my favorite songs on the album, Encore, was heavy on my mind. I kept thinking to myself (like I'm sure millions of people thought as well) that a song produced by Kanye West could do no wrong. But...an album with Kanye West the rapper???? It would probably have to be one of those albums that grows on me. Nevertheless, I literally spent my last 15 dollars on The College Dropout. I didn’t get paid until Friday, but something told me to go and get it. It couldn’t be that bad....
I can honestly say it changed my life.
Kanye West - The College Dropout
It was like the album spoke of what I was feeling at the time...almost to the core. There is this one line that sticks on the very first song, We Don’t Care, when he says “this is for my Ni**** outside all winter cuz this summer they ain’t finna say next summer I'm finna...” That spoke to me!!! How many times have we said “yo, I'm gonna go hard this year so next year can be lit!!”, only to have the next year roll around and you’re in the same boat as last year? I’m sure I wasn’t the only one. This album spoke of the person who is not only trying to figure out what happened in the past, but what’s happening now and how prepared we really aren’t for the future. College in my eyes is still a debatable subject on whether or not it’s needed to be successful, but that’s another conversation as a whole. The College Dropout told the story of someone who didn’t finish college, but worked their ass off to make it in society. Because regardless of what they tell you or portray in High School, this shit is hard. If you hustle hard, believe in yourself and don’t give up, success will come.
I wasn’t ready for The College Dropout, but I was ready for change in my life. This album helped usher in the new mentality I’ve lived by since then. Whether you love or hate Kanye West now, you can’t deny the social impact this album had in 2004 and beyond. It inspired millions of people, including myself, to get off our asses and do something amazing. So here’s to one of my top 5 favorite albums of all time, The College Dropout.
Eric Lewis
@TheTmPLife
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Lauryn Harris Drops New Single "Visions"
Houston singer Lauryn Harris dropped a new single called “Visions”! The track has a laid back vibe and is a sure feel good good song! Lauryn dropped a hot EP Inside My Head last September and is keeping up the momentum with new music early this year.
By: Omar Cook
Houston singer Lauryn Harris dropped a new single called “Visions”! The track has a laid back vibe and is a sure feel good good song! Lauryn dropped a hot EP Inside My Head last September and is keeping up the momentum with new music early this year.
“ The inspiration behind this song is delayed feelings. Whether that be between a loved one, friend, etc. You’ve already gone through the emotions of how ever you feel and now that other person is ready to tackle everything when you’ve made your peace and going on with life.”
CHECK IT OUT HERE!
Lauryn Harris - “Visions” Music Video
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21 Savage Is Just The Latest Victim Of A Corrupt ICE Organization
21 Savage recently talked about the border control issues on his song “A Lot” and is now facing his own immigration case. But why now? This case brings more light to just how corrupt ICE is.
By: Omar Cook
We’ve seen all the memes, and of course we all had jokes because to everyone’s surprise, we were all shocked to find out 21 Savage was from London. But what’s not funny is that 21 Savage is actually facing deportation and has been arrested and detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for overstaying his visa. No one wants to see someone go through this and it just so happens that all of this happening after he released his new album where he called out ICE and gained control over his masters. Coincidence?
21 Savage, whose real name is Sha Yaa Bin Abraham-Joseph came here at the age of 7 and has been in America for almost 20 years. He is currently on 23 hour lockdown and being held with no bond despite already having a pending U-Visa application filed since 2017.
21 has had a handful of support from the rap community and Jay Z even stepped in to hire a lawyer for him. "In addition to being a successful recording artist, Savage deserves to be reunited with his children immediately," Jay-Z said. Alex Spiro who is the attorney representing him said, "We are not going to stop until he is released, bonded out or in front of a judge," he told TMZ. "What we have here is someone who overstayed their Visa with an application pending for four years—not a convicted criminal that needs to be detained and removed but, by all accounts a wonderful person, father, and entertainer who has a marijuana offense which was vacated and sealed."
Many people have touched on the fact that this case has gathered a lot of attention due to the fact that ICE actually went after a rapper and that there wasn’t this type of energy and support when children were being detained at the border.
This is simply untrue as the border situation with kids being held in cages was trending for a while and received tons of support. We were all outraged, and still are. What’s happening with 21 Savage is it’s own case and he deserves just as much as supports as anyone else. The fact that people have to pit two situations against each other to make any one of them seem less important is ridiculous. Either way it goes, ICE is the problem despite whoever the people being detained are. At the end of the day, the common conclusion here is there needs to be changes made in the way immigration is handled in our country, period.
21 Savage talked about the border control issues on his song “A Lot”, saying “Been through some things so I can’t imagine my kids stuck at the border / Flint still need water / People was innocent, couldn’t get lawyers.” And ironically he gets arrested not too long after the release. Why only now do they come after him? It’s not like he’s been in hiding, he’s been in the spotlight for a minute! Only when he switched up his rap with some socially conscious lyrics does this occur. Salute to 21 Savage for bringing more awareness to issues with ICE but now we wish him nothing but the best as he fights this case. This can end up being a blessing in disguise because a case like this will bring more attention to some of the issues that immigrants face everyday when dealing with ICE.
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Meet James Teague, contributing writer to 247 Live Culture!