Leekthough is changing the way music is perceived and delivered. With his 1st Studio Debut album LUNA, creating movies with sound, bringing powerful 808’s, atmospheric lyrics, and an assortment of instrumentals. Pulling inspiration from Michael Jackson, Lil Wayne, and Post Malone; the sound of his artistry is sure to be distinctive. We took some time to ask some questions about what makes him Leekthough. Here’s what he had to say.
AllHipHop:From the outside looking in, describe the wide dynamic range of Leekthough.
Leekthough: I love to experiment with all sounds ranging from EDM, Pop, Hip Hop, Dancehall, Afro Beat, and R&B; the list goes on honestly. My sound is built from anything I can vibe to.
AllHipHop:What are some of your highlights on your journey?
Leekthough: I would have to say when Fall For Me hit Top 50 in Hong Kong. That right there showed me that I can make respectable music. It was a motivation for me to keep experimenting with my range.
AllHipHop: What are some of your most recent accomplishments?
Leekthough: Recently I had the opportunity to perform eight times as well as have a lot of interviews with my best friend Tribe Mafia at SXSW 2022. That was another accomplishment in my career.
AllHipHop:Tell us about your current project.
Leekthough: My new project, LUNA, doesn’t have a release date quite yet. I will show you the cover after the interview, but it’s colorful and vibrant. Everything you see within the album art is not random, it all has a meaning. For example, the planet in the distance has a very significant implication.
The project has a crazy storyline within a cinematic universe that Soca Jones and I created with soundscapes and melodies. Every creation ranges from hype energetic dance hits to captivating melodic cinematic ambiances. However, the delay on LUNA comes down to mixing & mastering in Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos. I’m not going to lie, Soca and I had too much fun crafting every song. You will be able to travel the world, the universe all with audio. The album will make people move and laugh, alongside getting to know me as a person rather than just another artist.
AllHipHop:For new listeners, what record of yours would you pick as an introduction to you; as an artist?
Leekthough: For surely Astro & Fall For Me. These two shows range with my voice and instrumental choices. Any song on LUNA could work, I’m more than proud of every last record.
AllHipHop:Tell us a bit about your work and passion outside of music
Leekthough: Listening to audiobooks is something I enjoy in my pass time. Also, I like to focus on business & entrepreneurship while learning new skills; refining all of my old ones. Many people don’t know that I can draw. I used to draw pictures before I started making music.
AllHipHop:What are you most looking forward to in 2022?
Leekthough: Accomplish more of my dreams, I don’t ask for much. I’m healthy, and I can provide for myself and my puppy while doing what I genuinely love. I’m satisfied with life.
AllHipHop:When did you start doing music, and when did you start taking it seriously?
Leekthough: When I was 22 and have been developing sine Further exploring, honing, and maturing my craft.
AllHipHop:Why music? Describe your passion.
Leekthough: I’m not so much an idealist but do adhere to some idealistic principles in life. I believe that music is the most intense outlet for self-expression, whether you’re creating or simply listening. It is the foundation for mental, emotional, and spiritual exploration that I believe is an absolute necessity in life.
AllHipHop:What are your goals when it comes to your music career?
Leekthough: I know a lot of artists say to be the best to ever do it. Not so much myself, I just want to be happy and at peace with how I did things; wanting to honestly be proud of myself. I could care less what people say or think about me, I just want to be able to say I gave it my all.
All I have to say is “The Church Got Something To Say” with this new EP Project titled “Survival Mode” from Lexington Park Maryland’s very own Croc Soo Savvy. Croc is definitely giving them DMV melodic vibes along with a positive message. You will definitely listen to this EP all the way through with no disappointments. By switching both his style and musical approach up, in order to give his listeners more purpose than just entertainment, Croc is here to show everyone that being saved doesn’t mean you fell off.
It only means that you are even more on point! With his leading single titled “Get It” featuring “Billboard Charting Urban Gospel and R&B Recording Artist” Jor’Dan Armstrong, Croc is showing the world that he is here to stay and he means Kingdom business! “Survival Mode” is out and available on all digital streaming platforms.
Last month, Champagne Papi flexed his benevolent side. Actually, he donated a portion of the good life. That’s right, a fan was unexpectedly blessed.
So, is Drake ready to get back into the proverbial lab and bless the mic? Well, a recent social media post appears to candidly affirm that notion. In fact, Drake hits the studio and seemingly suggests new music.
Well, within his Instagram stories, that provocative proclamation is piquing a lot of interest. Here, the lauded lyricist may be preparing for future smash hits. Generally speaking, Mr. Certified Lover Boy is always looking challenge his artistic integrity.
As a matter of fact, this visual tease follows a surprising tidbit of info from Nicki Minaj. So, with her upcoming album, the Barbie proclaims that she “discussed,” the possibility of having Drizzy work as Executive Producer. Given their history, and their innate chemistry this pairing would be dope.
Moreover, Minaj initially mentioned the prospect during an impromptu question and answer session. Be that as it may, at this time, one may only wish for more creativity from the superstar. For the most part, the acclaimed artist appears capable of achieving the impossible.
Police report that drill rapper Dougie B and an associate were arrested outside of the Bronx Supreme Court in the E. 161st St. parking lot after an alleged car crash prompted thugs to blast off at each other.
Details around the detainment are murky, and charges have not been defined, but witnesses say they were shocked that it happened in broad daylight in front of the municipal building.
According to the New York Post, one bystander said she saw a “group of guys were arguing.” The woman explained, “All of a sudden I heard a gunshot.”
“So crazy because right in front of the Bronx Supreme Court?” the witness, who chose to remain anonymous, said. “What did they think was going to happen? They weren’t getting away.”
Dougie B, whose real name is Arion Howard, recently filmed a video for their song “Shake It” with Grammy winner Cardi B, was at the court for an unrelated shooting case.
Nicki Minaj’s fans tried to say the two tried to copy her since she did her video on the same day.
However, those rumors were shut down after Cardi took to Instagram to set the record straight.
“Y’all be trynna play wit my body like I won’t come wit receipts! My bad I had to rehearse for a movie for 2 months, shoot Facebook, go to Europe and close deals MY BAD @dougieb___ and cardi was in LA workin and we finally in NY our home to shoot this 🔥! Don’t play wit me I Move on my timing and I BEEN DONE THIS… talk all y’all s### make sure y’all tune in to TOUCH THE GROWN!!! And FREE F##### KAY FLOCK!!” Cardi B tweeted.
The Academy has claimed that Will Smith refused to leave the Dolby Theatre after slapping Chris Rock during the Oscars on Sunday.
Officials from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which organizes the Oscars, released a statement on Wednesday in which they claimed the “King Richard” actor was asked to leave the auditorium after he slapped Oscars presenter Chris Rock onstage during the ceremony, but he refused.
“Things unfolded in a way we could not have anticipated. While we would like to clarify that Mr. Smith was asked to leave the ceremony and refused, we also recognize we could have handled the situation differently,” their statement reads, reports The Associated Press.
They also praised Chris Rock for how he handled the situation, which took place after he made a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.
“Mr. Smith’s actions at the 94th Oscars were a deeply shocking, traumatic event to witness in-person and on television,” the statement continued.
“Mr. Rock, we apologize to you for what you experienced on our stage and thank you for your resilience in that moment. We also apologize to our nominees, guests, and viewers for what transpired during what should have been a celebratory event.”
The Academy also announced that its Board of Governors has begun the process of disciplining Will Smith for “inappropriate physical contact, abusive or threatening behavior and compromising the integrity of the Academy.”
The 53-year-old has been given the notice to write to the board before its next meeting on April 18th, when they will decide whether to suspend, expel, or make other sanctions against the actor.
Freddie Gibbs is back with his latest single “Ice Cream.” The Indiana-bred emcee linked with Florida rapper Rick Ross for the Kenny Beats-produced track.
For his version of “Ice Cream,” Freddie Gibbs reimagines a classic 1995 song of the same name. Raekwon’s “Ice Cream” featuring Ghostface Killah, Method Man, and Cappadonna lives on the critically-acclaimed Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… album.
Kenny Beats flipped parts of the same “A Time for Love” sample “Ice Cream” producer RZA used twenty-seven years ago. Jazz guitarist Earl Klugh’s “A Time for Love” originally came out in 1980 on the Late Night Guitar album.
Gibbs is coming off Alfredo with The Alchemist earning a Grammy nomination for Best Rap Album at the 2021 ceremony. The 39-year-old rhymer also teamed with Madlib for 2014’s Piñata and 2019’s Bandana. A forthcoming project titled Soul Sold Separately is in the works.
In addition to dropping new music, Freddie Gibbs recently made his feature film acting debut in Down With The King. Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival organizers also booked the Warner recording artist for the 2022 edition of the California event. Gibbs is scheduled to hit the Coachella stage on April 16 and April 23.
Daniel Kaluuya (Get Out, Judas and the Black Messiah) makes his screenwriting debut with an upcoming movie. The Oscar-winning actor worked with Joe Murtagh to pen The Kitchen for Netflix.
In addition, Kaluuya will also produce The Kitchen under his 59% Productions. Michael Fassbender (X-Men: First Class, Steve Jobs) will executive produce the motion picture for his DMC Film production company, according to reports.
British rapper Kane “Kano” Robinson will star in the futuristic dystopian drama set in London. The 36-year-old Hoodies All Summer album creator is best known for portraying Sully in the Netflix crime drama series Top Boy.
Kane Robinson will play a character named Izi in The Kitchen. The filmmakers cast newcomer Jedaiah Bannerman as 12-year-old Benji. Plus, Kibwe Tavares is making his feature film directorial debut.
🚨 FILM NEWS 🚨
THE KITCHEN – a dystopian drama set in London in 2044, co-written by Daniel Kaluuya and starring Top Boy’s Kane Robinson (@TheRealKano) – is now in production and will release globally on Netflix in 2023! pic.twitter.com/hMmxFXxFZG
Daniel Kaluuya, Kibwe Tavares, and Daniel Emmerson came up with the idea for The Kitchen. The Sundance Institute selected the project for the 2016 January Screenwriters Lab.
Previously, Daniel Kaluuya wrote episodes for the BAFTA-winning television series Skins. In addition to working behind the scenes on the show, he also appeared on screen as Posh Kenneth.
Moviegoers can see Daniel Kaluuya in Jordan Peele’s Nope in July and Ryan Coogler’s Black Panther: Wakanda Forever in November. Season 2 ofNetflix’s Top Boy, featuring Kane Robinson, premiered on March 18.
J. Cole and Dreamville Records partnered with DJ Drama to put together the new D-Day: A Gangsta Grillz Mixtape. The 15-track project arrived on DSPs last night (March 31).
Dreamville regulars such as J. Cole, Ari Lennox, J.I.D, Bas, EarthGang, Cozz, Lute, and Omen show up on D-Day. The label also enlisted 2 Chainz, A$AP Ferg, Young Nudy, Sheck Wes, Reason, and more for guest appearances.
D-Day: A Gangsta Grillz Mixtape follows Dreamville’s previous three compilations. 2014’s Revenge of the Dreamers mostly featured J. Cole, Bas, and Omen. A year later, Dreamville Records added Ari Lennox, Cozz, and Lute to Revenge of the Dreamers II.
The Platinum-certified Revenge of the Dreamers III peaked at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart in 2019. In addition to J.I.D and EarthGang providing bars, ROD3 also had a star-studded lineup of non-Dreamville acts.
D-Day: A Gangsta Grillz Mixtape landed on the same week Will Smith slapped Chris Rock on stage at the 94th Academy Awards ceremony. DJ Drama referenced the über-viral story on the project.
“Keep playing with Dreamville’s name. Don’t get Chris Rock’d out your socks. Anything can and will happen. Then watch me walk back to my seat. Keep my name out your f###### mouth,” says DJ Drama on “Starting 5.”
Lute, Cozz, and Omen rap on the Wyldfyre-produced “Starting 5” song. J. Cole, Christo, araabMUZIK, Beat Butcha, Chuck Inglish, Jake One, J. White Did It, Frank Dukes, Illmind, and others also provided production for D-Day.
BET+ will stream another season of the original program American Gangsters: Trap Queens. Ten new episodes of the true-crime series will premiere later this month.
The first five installments of Trap Queensseason 3 will be available on April 7. The remaining five episodes will begin streaming at a later date.
This season features the criminal stories of women such as Kimberly Smedley, Candace Wilson, Gina Cabell, Shontel Greene, and Tonia Taylor. Hip Hop legend Kimberly “Lil Kim” Jones will narrate the program.
“Trap Queens combines great storytelling with the real-life journeys of female crime bosses as they rise, fall, and seek redemption,” states Judge Greg Mathis, the show’sexecutive producer.
Arthur Smith and Frank Sinton are also credited as executive producers for American Gangsters: Trap Queens. Delece James and Jackson Nguyen serve as executive producers. Andrena Hale and David Rock serve as co-executive producers.
Cypress Hill scored a #1 rap song in 1993 with “Insane In The Brain.” Showtime will premiere a documentary about the Hip Hop group titled Cypress Hill: Insane In The Brane on April 20.
Insane In The Brane is part of Showtime’s Hip Hop 50 programming. The film chronicles the West Coasters’ decades-long career and influence on the music business.
Sony Music Entertainment and Mass Appeal produced the forthcoming doc. A nearly two-minute trailer for Insane In The Brane arrived on YouTube yesterday.
Director Estevan Oriol uses never-before-seen archival footage to tell the story of Cypress Hill. In addition, Insane In The Brane viewers will see rare photos of band members B Real, DJ Muggs, Sen Dog, and Eric “Bobo” Correa.
Besides the Gold-certified “Insane In The Brain” single, Cypress Hill also reached #1 on Billboard‘s Hot Rap Songs chart with “The Phuncky Feel One.” The South Gate representatives’ “Throw Your Set In The Air” was a mainstream hit as well.
Cypress Hill’s discography also includes the group’s self-titled 1991 debut album. Their Black Sunday project dropped in 1993. That studio LP, which hosts the “Insane In The Brain” track, earned 3x-Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America.
Many people remember stories of Jada Pinkett Smith being one of rapper Tupac’s early loves, celebrating the poem he wrote her when she was a teen.
But, after moving to California, miles away from the cat-eyed actress, the artist had his heart locked on another young lady.
Her name is Cosima.
The world has become acquainted with her as she is the subject found in a few love letters that were auctioned titled “The Art and Influence of Hip Hop” at Sotheby’s on March 30th.
In the letters, Pac revealed his deep love for the girl he dated in high school.
Sotheby notes, at the time, Cosima Knez was a sophomore at his school in California after he moved from Baltimore and was a. member of the Ensemble Theatre Company with Tupac.
The two met on her birthday in October of 1988, when the rapper was 17. Their romance lasted between 7 and 8 months.
All of the letters were signed at the end with “Thinking of U! Eternally your friend, Tupac A. Shakur.”
The first letter, dated October 28th, 1988, in the auction reads, “U must be doing a good job because more and more people r beginning 2 say good things about u. Now about Aaron, what can I say? As much as I want 2, I can’t tell u what u want 2 hear. I listen when he speaks but he never says your name. I did c him looking at you, even yesterday he watched u. I have a feeling he likes u but I’m not sure. He is strange! He’s hard 2 figure out. Remember what I told u!”
“Don’t let him have your heart until he earns it. Let him show u some affection. Step away 4 a while and c if he notices. I called u last night but u were busy. I’ve been invited 2 a million parties but I have 2 work today, so I may not go.”
“Last night, I broke up with my girlfriend for good this time! She’s too immature!!! So now I want 2 take a little time 2 myself b4 I hop in 2 the dating scene. Gib swears he’s a player. As a friend, I’m warning don’t ever under any circumstances let yourself be involved with hm again. He said something 2 me today about being able to get u back whenever he wants 2. So don’t let him play u. Don’t ever tell anything the things I share with u. They r u your eyes only.”
This letter went for $8,190.
In letter marked #102, he mentions Pinkett Smith and shares how he feels only a couple of weeks after meeting Cosima.
“The words that I usually use have suddenly escaped my vocabulary. What can I say 2 u? How can I say it? I am attracted 2 u like I am attracted 2 no other nor have I ever felt this strong, this quick, with anyone!! Not Carmen, Jada, Suzie, anyone!”
“Can’t I say I like u? No, because it’s 2 week. Can I say I care for you? No, because it’s much more than that. Can I say that I love you? Easily! But that word scares me so much. I keep waiting 4 u 2 say ‘Tupac, I was just joking about liking u, goodbye!’ I could easily say, ‘Cosima, I love u and not feel any doubt in my mind or heart.’
The two-page letter he wrote in November 1988 sold for $6,930.
In one letter, #103, the young love-struck student tries to define their relationship and asks the question if they are ready for a physical and/or emotional connection.
“I don’t know what I want from u or what u want from me,” he writes. “One thing 4 certain it is not your average relationship or by attempting 2 define it we will save ourselves a lot of heartache and confusion (heartache 4 me and confusion 4 u). I’m not going 2 lie 2 u. I will be 4 ever curious about what it would be like 2 be with u sexually, but is that possible? Can we handle a physical and emotional relationship?”
This two-page letter sold for $6,048.
Auction item #104 was written to Cosima in the Spring of 1989.
“This song has been echoing through my head all night,” the teen wrote. “It fits me 2 a tee! I can’t believe u ignored me last night. 2 be honest I was glad u didn’t give in because I had a ball holding u. It wasn’t my ideal dream, but I get it where I can (Smile face)! I kind of understand your letter but in a lot of ways, I didn’t. About the part where you said ‘… Like Jada, I have grown 2 love u.’ Well, the one thing I’ve learned from our episode last week is when u say LOVE u ruin things. I don’t think we should.”
He said, “I want u so bad! When I’m with u I want u, when we are apart, I want u even more. How can I tell u how I feel where there’s no word in the English language 2 define what my heart is going through? I feel joy and paranoid at the same time. Joy 2 be with u and paranoid that it will end. I’m sorry if this scares u but I have fallen in love with u. I wanted to put it off by my heart won’t let me.
Even when my brain wants to deny that I’m in love my body tells me. Each breath that I breathe is breathed with thoughts and fantasies of u and I. My images are becoming stronger and harder to ignore. I want to be with u so bad that it hurts to not kiss u. It hurts to not hold u close to me. I can almost feel my tongue running over your skin. I feel the heat of your mouth as my tongue enters it. I can feel your arms around me. I can c us entwined in a heated session of lovemaking. This is agony. I want to be with u in the worst way. I better stop before I overhear (smiley face). I’ll save the rest for reality. It feels so right saying, ‘So, I’ll just it, I love you.”
On the back of the letter, he shares another poem with his love.
“I finally found the girl that I could truly love. I finally found the beauty that I searched for in so many girls. I finally found a friend as well as a lover. I finally found someone who I could talk 2 about anything. I finally found that woman whom I knew so well in my dreams. I finally found Cosima.”
This passionate letter sold for $6,930.
In one letter #105, he wrote, “Cosima, what can I say? I’m lost. Our relationship is beginning 2 become a roller coaster ride every day there a new turn. I go from pain 2 joy in one week. But I don’t want it2 end. I love u so much that I would go through hell if it means I could have u on the other side. My suggestion is that we be more sensitive of each other. What happened this weekend should never happen again. I will be more sensitive 2 your feelings but u also have 2 be more sensitive. When I say “Eternally” I want 2 believe it will be for eternity. I love u and I only want u 2 be happy.”
This letter sold for $6,930.
#106 in the auction, he started the letter quoting a popular song by the late George Michael, “Kissing a Fool.”
He wrote, “Cosima, ‘…u were far, I thought I could never be your (star), u listen 2 people who scare u 2 death & from my (heart). It’s strange that I was strong enough 2 even make a start, I’ll never find, peace of mind, while I listen 2 my (heart) …'”
This note sold for $6,930.
In another letter, #107, he included a personal poem titled “What U Mean 2 Me” and drew a custom design on the envelope.
This letter said, “Cosima, I was thinking about u and this came 2 mind.”
“This card is meant 2 express my feelings, but words cannot begin, 2 thank u 4 being there as more than just a friend. 4 the joy that u have brought me, I can never pay u back. I can’t say that I really care 4 because I feel much more than that. Who? Knows what the future holds 4 only a crystal ball can tell But “God” knows that 4 u I’d go to the fiery depths of Hell.”
In the corner of the piece, he says, “This is 2 let u know that I am here 4 eternity. I will never leave your heart.”
He instructs her to “Put this in your collection and remember me always!”
Kid Cudi and Jack Harlow are heading to Nickelodeon’s annual Kids’ Choice Awards.
Nickelodeon announced Kid Cudi and Jack Harlow as performers for the 2022 Kids’ Choice Awards on Thursday (March 31). The event takes place at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California on April 9.
“I can’t believe my late 30-something butt gets to party at the Kids’ Choice Awards!” Kid Cudi said in a press release. “I grew up loving Nickelodeon and it’s been a dream of mine to get slimed. Can’t wait to perform my new single from Sonic the Hedgehog 2, “Stars in the Sky,” along with a special tune dedicated to all the dreamers out there who might be struggling in life. This one’s for you!”
According to Nickelodeon, Kid Cudi will also perform his single “Pursuit of Happiness” at the upcoming event. Jack Harlow’s setlist hasn’t been revealed.
“I grew up on Nickelodeon so to be nominated and perform at the Kids’ Choice Awards is crazy,” Jack Harlow said. “Here’s to hoping I get slimed!”
Jack Harlow is nominated for Favorite Breakout Artist. Kid Cudi didn’t receive any nominations for this year’s Kids’ Choice Awards.
The 2022 Kids’ Choice Awards will be hosted by iCarly actress Miranda Cosgrove and NFL star Rob Gronkowski. The broadcast airs live across Nickelodeon, TeenNick, Nicktoons and Nick Jr.
Top Dawg Entertainment’s new artist Doechii officially joined the Capitol Records roster.
Capitol Records and TDE announced a partnership centered around Doechii on Thursday (March 31). The labels unveiled the deal on the heels of Doechii releasing “Persuasive,” her debut single for TDE.
“Top Dawg Entertainment is excited to partner with Capitol Records to provide a platform for Doechii to fulfill her artistic ambitions,” TDE founder Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith said. “Doechii’s energy is contagious and, together with Capitol, we’re committed to helping her share her gifts with the world.”
Capitol’s CEO Michelle Jubelirer added, “The first time I heard Doechii’s music, I experienced that incredible chill-inducing feeling that I live for, as both a music executive and music fan. That feeling has only grown deeper as I’ve gotten to know this amazing young artist and heard more of what she’s been creating in the studio. It’s a real honor to be partnering with Top Dawg and TDE as we work to introduce Doechii to audiences around the world and help her develop into the global superstar we know that she’ll become.”
Doechii dropped two EPs, 2020’s Oh ThePlaces You’ll Go and 2021’s BRA-LESS, before signing with TDE in 2022. She previously worked with TDE’s Isaiah Rashad, appearing on the song “Wat U Sed” from his album The House Is Burning.
Check out the video for Doechii’s “Persuasive” below.
DJ Ronniegg is a very busy person. Working full time in finance, the creative sometimes finds it hard to balance her professional life with her dream life. The struggle has only gotten more complicated recently as DJ Ronniegg’s music has started to take off around the world. So far her tracks have been heard by more than 30,000 people to date.
For as long as she can remember, DJ Ronniegg has been involved with music in some way. The creative is well versed in being able to play instruments including the guitar. DJ Ronniegg has plans to release even more music soon.
Lauren London commemorated her boyfriend Nipsey Hussle on the third anniversary of his death.
The actress honored Nipsey Hussle in an Instagram post on Thursday (March 31). Lauren London declared she’d forever love the late rapper, who is the father of her son Kross.
“Loving You,” she wrote. “Here. There. Then. Now. Forever and After. Long Live The King Ermias Asghedom. Hussle Man.”
Lauren London also shared more Nipsey Hussle tributes on her Instagram Stories. One featured a heartfelt message about his presence remaining with her even in death.
“I may not see you but I feel you in the moon and the stars and the seasons always changing,” the message read. “Telling me though I may seem alone that you never really left.”
Last year, Lauren London opened up about losing Nipsey Hussle in an interview with the Los Angeles Times. Since his death, she’s been on a “quest for peace.”
“I lost what I would say is the love of my life, so I had to go so deep within myself,” she explained. “I was so in a dark space and it was just like, ‘What is this? Who am I? God, please show me.’ When you’re facing God face-on, you’re asking real questions and you want real answers. It wasn’t for play. I really wanted to know what was going on.”
Nipsey Hussle was shot and killed in 2019. His alleged killer Eric Holder is still awaiting trial for murder.
Looking at the music industry today, it is hard to believe that music is a calling since it has become heavily commercialized. However, Phillionaire remains true to his calling, echoing that music is a path that has called to him his whole life. His natural inclination to music has seen him break out into a star who has superhits like “iWanna” to his credit and whose music provides more than just a distraction for his listeners. Music is a calling, according to Phillionaire.
It requires time, commitment, sacrifice, and talent to make your mark in this highly competitive industry. Yet if you do have a natural inclination to music, you have a great head start. And once you feel that pull to this particular craft, it is hard to break out of its enigma. For Phillionaire, he had no desire to escape this creative grip. Upon realizing that music was the only path he would love to tread on, Phillionaire was determined to do whatever was necessary to make this a reality. It was a calling, and there was no other way to describe it. This innate passion became even more intense, an effective motivator for the young artist.
Even with this passion and motivation, Phillionaire admits the road to success was a difficult one. He had to put forth a lot of self-discipline to focus on the mindset of “work before play” and always remembered why he chose music as a career. Phillionaire shares when he weighed out other career options, the thought of being unhappy for a lifetime always got him back on track.“I couldn’t see myself doing anything else,” Phillionaire reflects.
“It was music or nothing; that’s how strong the calling was.” This natural propensity generated a drive that could not have come from any other source, and Phillionaire is very grateful for it. He realizes the inclination was critical in preparing for this demanding career and is determined to continue focusing on it for future success. There is an adage that your destiny is what you make of it. Phillionaire didn’t just have the talent for a successful music career; he was born with an inclination for this craft that provided the other essential elements. A calling guided the hard work and sacrifices as Phillionaire used his penchant for music to make the right turns on an impressive career path.
Ever since he was a young man growing up in Long Island, New York, Wizard Lee always dreamed of becoming a major influence on the music culture. He was infatuated by the production side of music and when he was in high school, he bought his own equipment so he could teach himself the art form. He would later go on to graduate from university with a degree in sound recording. After graduation, Wizard Lee set up an at-home studio and began cultivating his craft in order to become a world-class producer. Currently, Wizard Lee is an independent artist. He just recently dropped the biggest project of his career, “No Matter the Weather”.
This project contains twenty-five songs and hits a variety of musical genres. Wizard Lee created a docu-series attached to the project that you can watch on his YouTube channel. He will be releasing a new episode every Friday until its completion, as well as a plethora of music videos. In the past, Wizard Lee has worked with world-renowned artists YE, Tory Lanez, Akon, and A Boogie. The first award he received was a gold placard for his production work on “Gummo” by 6ix9ine and has since gone on to create multiple platinum records as well. When listening to his music Wizard Lee intends for his fans to create their own meaning to his music.
He hopes he can help inspire others and gets great enjoyment out of releasing his music to the public. In the future, Wizard Lee looks to continue doing what he loves and expand his reach within the music industry. The artist he inspires to work with most is 2kBaby. He believes that 2kBaby’s unique sound and his production work would create timeless music for multiple generations to enjoy. You can stream “No Matter the Weather’’ on Spotify and be sure to follow Wizard Lee’s Instagram for all announcements regarding future projects.
This is the third-year anniversary of Nipsey Hussle’s death. Tina “Slauson Girl” Sampay examines the complexities and similarities between Nip and Black Panther Bunchy Carter.
The murder of Nipsey Hussle hauntingly mirrors the murder of not only Bunchy Carter, but the entire dismantling of Los Angeles Black Panther Party. His 2019 slaying also mirrors how the vision of community progress for Blacks in South Central was disrupted during the 1960s.
Follow me for a few.
It has now been three years since Nipsey Hussle (born Ermias Asghedom) was gunned down in front of his flagship clothing store on the corner of Crenshaw and Slauson Ave. His father migrated to the U.S from Eritrea and his mother is a Black woman of Creole descent but Nipsey Hussle was a child of L.A’s inner city, also known as “South Central.”
While many in the South Central/ South Los Angeles community continue to build upon Nipsey Hussle’s foundation of community investment and staying rooted locally, his death continues to represent a serious loss and has left a huge void in the community.
The inner-city communities of South Central, Watts and Compton in L.A. County have become highly popularized thanks to gangster rap, mainstream media, and Hollywood films. On a micro level, those forced to live within the confines of inner-city L.A. are dealing with the harsh realities of trying to survive, when they have been systemically and economically locked out.
Jan. 17. 2022 also marked 53 years since Alprentice “Bunchy” Carter (October 12, 1942 – January 17, 1969) was gunned down on the campus of UCLA, along with fellow Black Panther John Huggins.
At only 26 years old, Bunchy Carter was a larger than life figure in South Central L.A, often referred to as “Mayor of the Ghetto” or “that N*** from the Slausons.”
Carter was leader of the “Renegade” set of the Slausons which, unlike street gangs of today, were formed by Black men to protect Black communities from the racial violence of white groups in L.A. like the S#### Hunters.
Carter was also a member of the Fruit of Islam. He was paroled from prison in 1967 and would become a founding member of the Los Angeles Black Panther Party, where he served as Minister of Defense. He even recruited Tupac’s Godfather, Geronimo Ji Jaga Pratt, as a member when they were both enrolled at UCLA in 1968. One of Carter’s main focuses was organizing groups of men to observe the actions of the LAPD in South Central.
Early Nipsey Hussle songs could be considered “gangster rap” but you can trace his evolution as not only an artist, but a man seeking knowledge of self and someone who was eager to share that with those in the ghetto he grew up in.
The deaths of Huggins and Carter came after a disagreement with another Black nationalist group also at UCLA’s campus, the US organization. Much like the “street politics” that are rumored to have led to the death of Nipsey Hussle, both Huggins and Carter would lose their lives allegedly by another Black man.
Many will focus only on what is indeed a form of Black on Black crime, with less focus on the ways these Black men were knowingly, or unknowingly, pawns on the chessboard system of white supremacy. A system that seeks to undermine and destroy any real aspirations of Black liberation and self-determination.
Poverty and racism is a driving force of inner-city violence. When our Black male leaders and brightest minds continue to be stolen from Black communities, it severely handicaps our ability to escape these barriers.
Eric Holder has yet to have a trial for Nipsey’s murder despite several court appearances throughout the years. Delays are expected in the administration of justice for Black lives deemed as threats or disposable to the system.
Like Nipsey Hussle, Bunchy Carter was charismatic and embodied leadership qualities that allowed them to easily appeal to Black men in South Central. Their words evoked action and reflected the depth of their understanding of the world around them.
A&E greenlighted a documentary about the Wu-Tang Clan’s Ol’ Dirty Bastard.
The network announced a two-hour documentary tentatively titled Biography: Ol’ Dirty Bastard on Thursday (March 31). A&E’s upcoming project includes never-before-seen shots from the personal archive of the late rapper’s widow Icelene Jones.
“I am thrilled to tell the full story of my husband,” Jones said in a press release. “With this documentary, the world will learn about the son, the husband, the father, and the artist. I’m proud of the team that we built, including Pulse, my producing partners Nicole Beckett and Messiah Jacobs at Four Screens, and our directing team, the Pollards.”
Emmy Award winner Sam Pollard and his son Jason Pollard will direct the documentary. Ol’ Dirty Bastard’s estate and Four Screens serve as producers alongside Pulse Films. Pulse previously produced Spike Jonze’s Beastie Boys Storyand Beyoncé’s Lemonade.
“At Pulse Films, we are passionate about making music documentaries that tell intimate, and unique stories about the world’s most iconic artists,” Pulse’s Sam Bridger said. “ODB completely redefined what it meant to be an MC. A genius who lived and breathed his art. We are thrilled to have Sam and Jason Pollard on board, who are the perfect filmmakers to tell this amazing story for the first time. There will never be anyone quite like ODB and we are so grateful to his family and friends of for inviting us into his world.”
Ol’ Dirty Bastard, whose real name was Russell Jones, passed away from a drug overdose in 2004. The legendary artist released two solo LPs during his lifetime in addition to his work with the Wu-Tang Clan.
“Gucci Gang” rapper Lil’ Pump has joined the adult-content pay-per-view site OnlyFans and promises his fans that he will deliver some super explicit content.
Now, fans can see him do freaky things for the low. According to The Blast, he took to his Instagram to announce the news.
The outlet stated that Pump shared an image of himself with a sexy woman in incredibly erotic positions. His account on Instagram has been wiped clean, and now his fans may be forced to sign up to check him out on OnlyFans.
The account is called “Pumps Play House,” and he says he will get to “do whatever the f### I want.”
His rep shared that the rapper is now the latest celebrity to sign with the Unruly Agency, an elite influencer and social media marketing group.
The company believes, “His loyal fanbase will now have exclusive access to never-before-seen content, unreleased music, and the wild, behind-the-scenes life of Lil Pump.”
“Nothing is off-limits as the Miami native takes on this new venture and lets loose in a way he never has before, so fans can prepare for jaw-dropping photos and videos,” the promise.
Currently, Lil Pump is offering a subscription sale for his fans. The “Limited offer” is 65% off for 31 days of his regular $19.99 a month. Fans get to look at his sex-capades for $7. The deal ends on Monday, April 4th.
