Before Butterfly became an award-winning feature film, it started as an idea rooted in the Bronx.

Filmmaker Dante Hillmedo, founder of Team Elite Productions, recently released his debut feature film after spending nearly two years writing, producing, directing, shooting, editing, and scoring the project himself. The coming-of-age drama has already earned significant recognition, taking home Best Feature Film honors at the Big Apple Film Festival before securing worldwide distribution.

Set in the Bronx, Butterfly follows Jericha, a teenager navigating bullying, family struggles, friendship, and the pressures that come with growing up while finding an escape through dance.

For Hillmedo, the story represents more than just entertainment.

“The Bronx story in Butterfly is important because that’s where I was born and raised,” Hillmedo explained. “Although the story is about Jericha, there are definitely pieces of my own experiences woven into the film. I think that’s what makes it relatable to so many people.”

While urban dance films have long been a staple of popular culture, Hillmedo wanted to create something that felt closer to reality than fantasy.

“I made Butterfly because I love urban dance drama films and there hasn’t been many in a while since films like You Got Served, Step Up, and Honey,” he said. “I wanted to create something that felt more real. Those films often build toward a big victory moment, but in real life the work doesn’t stop there. Life continues after the applause.”

That commitment to authenticity became one of the driving forces behind the project.

Rather than focusing solely on competition and success, Butterfly explores issues that many young people face every day, including peer pressure, immigration, self-worth, family challenges, and finding purpose through passion.

The film also features actress and television personality Tahiry Jose, actress, recording artist, and entrepreneur Lea Robinson, and comedian and social media personality Trabass.

Hillmedo’s journey to completing the film reflects the same determination displayed by many independent creators trying to build something without industry backing.

After early crowdfunding efforts generated only a small portion of the film’s budget, Hillmedo chose to finance the project himself.

“I self-funded Butterfly because I wasn’t able to secure the investment needed to bring the vision to life,” Hillmedo said. “Crowdfunding only generated a small portion of what was needed, so I bet on myself. Through my savings and support from my mother and father, I was able to finish the film.”

That gamble paid off.

Last year, Butterfly captured the Best Feature Film award at the Big Apple Film Festival, an accomplishment that Hillmedo considers one of the biggest milestones of his career.

“I’ve spent years behind the camera capturing major events and working around some of the biggest names in entertainment, but winning Best Feature Film at the Big Apple Film Festival was different,” he said. “Competing against films connected to legendary directors and Academy Award-winning actors and coming away with that recognition was a major milestone.”

Today, Hillmedo hopes the film resonates with audiences who may be facing challenges of their own.

“When people watch Butterfly, I want them to understand that your passion can pull you through some of the darkest moments in life,” he said. “Even when things feel overwhelming, continue doing the things you love. You never know what opportunities or miracles can come from simply pursuing what brings you joy.”

Butterfly is available now on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube Movies & TV, Google Play, Fandango at Home, and more.

For more information and where-to-watch links, visit OfficialButterflyFilm.com.

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Demeatris Lamar Peel, professionally known as TRUE07, is an 18-year-old rising artist from Marlin, Texas, who is quickly making a name for himself despite being only seven months into his musical journey. Born on July 11, 2007, TRUE07 represents a new generation of artists who are proving that dedication, consistency, and authenticity can create momentum in a short period of time.

Coming out of Marlin, Texas, TRUE07 has embraced music as a way to express himself and connect with listeners through genuine experiences and emotion. Although relatively new to the industry, his passion for creating music and developing his sound has already begun to separate him from many artists just starting their careers. His ability to remain focused while continuously improving has positioned him as one of the young talents to watch from Texas.

At just 18 years old, TRUE07 is laying the foundation for what could become a promising career. His commitment to growth and willingness to learn have allowed him to make significant progress in only seven months. While many artists spend years trying to find their identity, TRUE07 has approached his journey with determination and a clear vision for the future.

Representing Marlin with pride, TRUE07 embodies the spirit of a new generation of independent artists who understand that success is built over time. His music reflects ambition, self-expression, and the hunger to turn dreams into reality. With each release, he continues to sharpen his craft and build a stronger connection with listeners.

Searches for TRUE07, Demeatris Lamar Peel, and Marlin Texas artist TRUE07 are expected to continue growing as more people discover his music and story. His consistency and dedication have already begun creating momentum, and with time on his side, his future remains full of potential.

As he continues expanding his catalog and reaching new audiences, TRUE07 is proving that it is not about how long you have been making music, but how committed you are to the journey. Seven months into his career, the Marlin, Texas native is only getting started, and the foundation he is building today could become the beginning of something much bigger.

West Coast veteran Afrikan Tone steps up to the plate and delivers a heavy hitter with “Home Run Hitters” featuring BIGWES. This record is all about confidence, hustle, and staying focused on the long game while others sit on the sidelines. The energy is authentic, the delivery is aggressive, and the message is clear: winners make plays while everybody else watches.

From the opening bars, Afrikan Tone brings a seasoned presence that reflects years of experience in independent music. The track carries a street-smart mentality mixed with a champion’s mindset, making it easy for listeners to connect with the ambition and determination behind the lyrics. BIGWES adds his own flavor to the record, helping
create a strong collaboration that keeps the momentum moving from start to finish.

“Home Run Hitters” isn’t just a song title—it’s a statement. The record represents people who take chances, put in work, and aren’t afraid to swing for the fences. Whether you’re building a business, chasing a dream, or grinding through everyday challenges, the song serves as motivation to keep pushing forward.

The production complements the message perfectly, providing a hard-hitting backdrop that allows both artists to showcase their lyrical abilities. The chemistry between Afrikan Tone and BIGWES gives the record replay value and makes it stand out among today’s independent releases.

As an artist with an established catalog of releases, Afrikan Tone continues to demonstrate consistency and dedication to his craft. “Home Run Hitters” adds another solid chapter to his growing body of work and reminds listeners why independent artists continue to shape the culture through authenticity and perseverance.

If you’re looking for music that celebrates ambition, determination, and success, “Home Run Hitters” deserves a spot on your playlist. This is championship music for people who refuse to settle for anything less than greatness. �

Watch the video for Heavy Hitters here:

Keep up with Afrikan Tone on Instagram @afrikantone

“From near-fatal hospital rooms to millions of streams, the British singer-songwriter opens up about her health battles, her bond with Rynellton, and her upcoming album, FREE-SPIRITED.“

The Phoenix of Indie Soul: TaniA Kyllikki’s Unbreakable Journey to Artistic Freedom

In an industry governed by manufactured algorithms and fleeting viral moments, British singer-songwriter TaniA Kyllikki stands as a magnificent anomaly, an unapologetic monument to authentic survival, raw vocal genius, and sovereign artistic freedom. Boasting a spectacular, old-school five-octave vocal range that effortlessly pierces the whistle register, TaniA does not simply perform; she channels a lifetime of profound physical and emotional warfare into breathtaking musical pieces.

From her very first breath, TaniA’s existence has been an uphill battle against the impossible. Born prematurely alongside her twin sister who tragically passed away at just four months old, TaniA inherited a lifetime of complex medical challenges, beginning with being born with Atypical Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome,(KTS) a rare congenital condition affecting her blood vessels. Her medical history is a harrowing gauntlet: navigating severe asthma, complex autoimmune diseases, the painful realities of lipedema, and enduring an astronomical 51 severe urinary tract infections. This lifelong struggle culminated just this month in a terrifying, near-fatal crisis when she contracted a rare type of silent urosepsis, after her immune system was temporarily suppressed from steroid pills for her lungs, this resulted in a medical emergency that brought her to the literal brink of near death.

Yet, where the physical body should have surrendered on many occasions, TaniA’s spirit engineered an empire. Rather than waiting for a major label rescue, she joined forces with her husband, co-writer, and virtuoso producer Rynellton (Garry D. Hairston) to launch Awe Inspiring Records. Operating in total creative autonomy, this independent powerhouse duo has shaken the foundations of the global indie scene. Her first heartfelt debut album, Why Chapter One, flew to the top 3 and then stayed in the top 100 for a month at #25 on Amazon’s Hot 100 Pop Albums. Following that success, her intimate, self-directed video for the masterpiece ballad “I Struck Gold With You” caught fire, amassing over 2.1 million views on YouTube. She has also charted in the top 10 euro indie charts multiple times, and been featured in hundreds of magazines and blogs worldwide since the pandemic, when she broke out independently shining her bright light with the world.

Now, preparing for the release of her highly anticipated sophomore album, FREE-SPIRITED, TaniA Kyllikki is still going full speed ahead, even with her chronic illness she is a force of nature who is shining her way into the global spotlight. Written and tracked during her most agonising physical flare-ups, the album is a masterclass in resilience. TaniA Kyllikki is not just a survivor; she is a leader, an innovator, and the definition of a free spirited soul.

Exclusive Interview With The UK’s Songbird TaniA Kyllikki

HIPHOPSINCE1987:  Fresh off a harrowing medical emergency that nearly claimed her life on June 5^th this year, TaniA Kyllikki sits down with HipHopSince1987. There are no corporate filters here, no public relations handlers, and no scripted answers. Alongside her husband and sonic architect, Rynellton, TaniA opens up her heart to pull back the curtain on pain, independent ownership, and the spiritual fire powering her upcoming album, FREE-SPIRITED.

The Interview:

The Sovereign Soul & The Physical Gauntlet

HipHopSince1987: TaniA, your life story reads like a script on ultimate human resilience. You recently survived a near-fatal crisis with Urosepsis, you were born early with a rare condition called Atypical Klippel-Trenaunay, and you live with lifelong complex autoimmune conditions, asthma, and lipedema. When your physical body is at its absolute weakest, how do you locate and pull that massive, five-octave vocal range out of your soul to record?

TaniA Kyllikki: We have all heard the saying, “the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.” For some of us, our bodies face greater weaknesses than others, but that is no reason to stop fighting for your dreams. You can be anything you want to be.

“God doesn’t make mistakes, he puts gifts in all of us, it’s up to us to utilise those gifts to their full potential.”

And God never said any of our journeys would be easy. But there is always a way around the struggles you face; you just have to think outside the box, hold on, and carry on. Ultimately, for me, it is my faith that gets me through, with God’s good graces he holds me up in every storm. I thank Jesus for never giving up on me. And that’s why my spirit is strong and determined to never give up.

For me, music is not just a sonic pleasure to pass the time. Singing and songwriting are beautiful gifts given to me by God.

“Although I was born prematurely with a weaker immune system and a long list of complex illnesses, it is beautifully ironic that I possess this big, powerful voice.”

Music and I are one. Even when my body has many moments of illness, the gift remains untouched. I am a living, breathing musical instrument, and my soul is strong.

Even in the face of adversity, my passion, drive, and desire are fully alive. This is a spiritual gift that aligns perfectly with my mind and body. Music is my medicine, my comfort, and a best friend that gets me through my most difficult times.

“I live by the mindset of mind over matter, and I will always find a way to do what I was born to do.”

I may have to do things my way rather than the standard music industry way, but I will get the job done. Everything I go through is real, and my music reflects every bit of it.

HipHopSince1987: You were born prematurely, and your twin sister tragically passed away at just four months old. How has carrying her missing presence shaped the emotional weight, the depth, and the spiritual urgency of your songwriting?

TaniA Kyllikki: I often wonder what life would have been like if my twin sister had survived. There is something unique about twins; it is like having an extension of your own self, and I have always felt like a part of me was missing. Though her time here was very short, I have never stopped thinking about her, which is why I decided to dedicate my journey to her memory.

“I legally added my twin sisters  first name as another middle name, so she is always acknowledged and never forgotten.”

Carrying her with me helps me process the loss. She didn’t get to experience this life and journey, so I wanted to keep her memory alive deep inside my being. I felt she deserved at least that much.

I can only imagine how beautiful it would have been if she had lived and been equally gifted and talented. Beyond that, having that unbreakable closeness with a sibling who also happens to be your twin would have been absolutely priceless.

HipHopSince1987: Millions of people dealing with severe chronic illnesses feel completely unseen by the mainstream media. By openly sharing your battles with multiple illnesses and 51 UTIs with  intensive care stays, directly on your social media accounts, you’ve become a lifeline for others. What does it mean to you to use your platforms for radical transparency rather than maintaining a ‘perfect’ pop star image?

TaniA Kyllikki: My transparency is about keeping it real. You can only truly understand this level of suffering when you have lived through it. No one chooses to be chronically ill, but for millions of us, it wasn’t a choice, it was the hand we were dealt at birth or at later stages in our lives.

I will be honest in saying that when you are fighting for your life in a hospital bed, your perspective shifts entirely. On my 51st infection, on 5^th of June this year 2026, my body went into silent urosepsis. I didn’t have a high temperature; my body was just shutting down. My oxygen and heart rate was dropping low and I felt cold and lifeless.

This was due to a mistake made by another medical professional in emergency who ignored my complex situation with biofilm UTIs, Infact he downplayed them as just a UTI. I was there for my asthma at that time after having a serious reaction to NAC to help breakdown biofilms. I had told him I was symptomatic and may be reinfected with my chronic UTI. He said, why are you bothering me about a UTI. He never did bloods to check for infection so I went home innocently not knowing the very high dose of daily steroids called Prednisolone, for my asthma, would put me into silent Urosepsis.

This should never have been given to me while symptomatic with chronic UTIs. I’m grateful to God that he kept me here. I nearly wasn’t. And I’m grateful to my urologist and the microbiology team who had to work overtime to get the right IV antibiotics to save my life.

“Women are often ignored for their UTIs. The healthcare is failing us and it is costing lives. Standard dipsticks and cultures miss up to 70% of acute infections and up to 90% of chronic cases like mine, where deadly biofilms form. Women can still have a UTI and have a negative test. That’s really dangerous. We are relying on outdated testing to treat a condition that can turn fatal, and that has to change.“

I am speaking up now because I am one of millions of women around the world being effected by this, I’m just able to voice this to a much bigger audience being a public figure. It’s definitely changed my life in a negative way. It actually becomes a chronic disease for most women with daily fatigue. I can’t sleep at night without a ice pack on. I do try to stay upbeat and make jokes sometimes about being like Elsa from Disneys frozen, because I can’t live without the frozen ice packs lol. But this should never be something any woman should have to deal with. And it effects women mentally too. My husband noticed a huge change in me over these last few years. I’m more emotionally fragile now,  instead of being the woman who laughed all the time and was full of life, I’m quick to break down. That’s not who I am.

“With all this being said, when you are surviving moments as serious as Urosepsis,, trust me, maintaining a flawless, manufactured “pop star” image becomes completely meaningless.”

So I choose to shatter that illusion because I want to be a fierce advocate for those who are suffering in silence. I want them to look at me and know they are not alone in their own health battles. By bringing these raw, hidden battles into the light, we create vital awareness and provide information that mainstream spaces ignore.

My ultimate hope is that my transparency drives better prevention and education, so we can genuinely save lives. I am about living in truth, even if that truth gets ugly at times. So no, I am not interested in being a perfect pop star; I am interested in being a lifeline.

The Independent Grind & The Golden Chemistry

 “I Struck Gold With You” Official Music Video

HipHopSince1987: At HipHopSince1987, we hold a deep respect for ownership and the independent hustle. You and your husband, Rynellton, bypass corporate gatekeepers entirely through your own imprint, Awe Inspiring Records. What are the greatest creative freedoms and the toughest operational hurdles of building an international music career from the ground up?

TaniA Kyllikki: Building an international career from the ground up alongside my husband, Rynellton, through our imprint Awe Inspiring Records, is a bold and deeply rewarding choice.

“The greatest creative freedom is undeniably the total ownership of our vision. When major labels tell you that your sound or your story isn’t “popular,” it usually just means they don’t understand your purpose.”

For us, creating music is a completely organic process from scratch: I write the lyrics, arrange the vocals, and record the songs, while my husband produces the music. It is a dream come true. There is an incredibly satisfying feeling in knowing that we own 100% of our ideas, master recordings, and publishing rights. We release music on our own schedule, answer to no corporate gatekeepers, and never have to suffer through unfair label contracts where the artist receives the smallest slice of the pie. We aren’t under pressure to compete with the industry; our only competition is who we were yesterday.

However, the operational hurdles are undeniably heavy. Funding a global project entirely out of your own pocket is exhausting, and wearing every single executive hat can sometimes feel incredibly lonely. There are days when I wish I could just focus purely on the art, but we know that if we aren’t willing to invest in ourselves, we can’t expect anyone else to. True independence requires massive sacrifice, but breaking through internationally and reaching millions of listeners organically has proven that our hustle works.

Ultimately, building this independent empire is just another extension of our purpose. Our ultimate goal is to use Awe Inspiring Records to lift up other struggling artists, especially those dealing with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or age barriers who just need someone to believe in them and give them a chance to shine their beautiful light. We hope to make all this possible in the future.

HipHopSince1987: The chemistry between an artist and a producer is entirely sacred. Your track “I Struck Gold With You” became a massive breakout hit, crossing over 2.1 million views on YouTube. Can you take us inside your home studio process with Rynellton? How does having your partner behind the boards help you feel safe enough to expose your deepest emotional vulnerabilities?

TaniA Kyllikki:  The musical and spiritual connection between Rynellton and me was there from our very first conversation. He is my husband, my best friend, and the person who knows me most deeply. Because of that sacred bond, our studio is a completely safe space where I can expose my rawest vulnerabilities without any fear or judgment.

“Musically, Rynellton connects directly with my heart and soul.”

My musical roots are deeply planted in R&B and Soul, and once I hand him my raw vocals, he dives deep into the tone, the lyrics, and the emotion of the track. He builds these lush, tailored sonic landscapes around my voice that perfectly complement my style. That is exactly how “I Struck Gold With You” was born.

When it came to the music video, we had to rely on pure DIY magic. I envisioned the entire creative direction myself, from doing my own hair, makeup, and photography, to conceptualising the video. Rynellton absolutely loves creating the music, but he doesn’t like being in the spotlight too much, so I came up with the idea of having his back turned to the camera. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it created this beautifully intimate visual narrative, making it look as though I am whispering these deeply personal lyrics directly into his ear.

The biggest challenge was figuring out how to shoot a music video with both of us in the frame when we didn’t have a camera crew. But where there is a will, there is a way. “I ended up filming the entire video using a five-pound selfie stick! I was simultaneously acting, singing, directing, and holding the stick, and later, I handled all the editing and syncing myself.”

I put my entire heart into rehearsing and creating this project as a pure love letter to thank my husband for everything he is to me and equally, a love letter to my fans for sticking by my side and supporting me as an independent artist. I never expected it to hit 2.1 million views on YouTube. I just wanted to share our real, authentic love with the world, and I hope it inspires others to keep believing in true love.

HipHopSince1987: Your signature sound beautifully honour’s classic, old-school R&B, Soul, and House, combining raw storytelling with grand melodic arrangements. How has the raw, narrative-driven nature of urban music influenced the way you construct your songs to connect with everyday listeners?

TaniA Kyllikki: Classic R&B, Soul, and House music have always been rooted in the unvarnished truth of the human experience. “Growing up, I was profoundly influenced by the raw, narrative-driven nature of urban music because it didn’t hide behind a polished mask.” It spoke openly about pain, heartbreak, survival, and triumph. That organic approach is exactly how I construct my own songs.

When I sit down to write lyrics, I draw a direct parallel to those old-school influences by refusing to sugarcoat my reality. “Whether I am blending a heavy, soulful vocal arrangement or driving an emotional narrative over a House beat, my goal is to give the listener a mirror to their own lives.”

Everyday listeners don’t connect with fake perfection; they connect with real scars. My songs are grand and melodic, but the foundation is always pure, unfiltered storytelling. By channeling my personal battles into my music, I am honouring the legacy of the greats who used urban music not just as entertainment, but as a testimony. I write for the everyday people who need to hear that you can walk through the fire and still come out singing.

The “FREE-SPIRITED” Era

HipHopSince1987: Your highly anticipated second studio album is titled FREE-SPIRITED. Given that your physical body is frequently confined to hospital rooms or limited by chronic pain, what does true ‘freedom’ mean to you, and how does this new album declare that independence?

TaniA Kyllikki: For me, true freedom has absolutely nothing to do with physical boundaries. My body might frequently be confined to a hospital bed, hooked up to IV lines, or limited by severe chronic pain, but “my mind, my talent, and my spirit can never be locked down by a medical diagnosis”. Freedom is an internal sovereignty; it is the refusal to let your circumstances dictate the boundaries of your soul.

FREE-SPIRITED is my way of showing my ultimate evolution from my first album, Why Chapter One. It is a profound reflection of my growth, not just as a creative artist, but as a person surviving deep trauma from early childhood all the way to adulthood. “This new album is my declaration of independence because it reveals my resilience through songs and my unyielding determination to never give up on my dreams.”  Going through extreme adversity definitively changes you, but you get to decide how it changes you. I have chosen to use it to become completely in tune with my purpose.

When listeners hear this album, I want them to understand that independence isn’t just about doing things on your own terms, it is about realising that your inner power is completely untouchable. Challenges will always come and go, but once you set your attention entirely on what you can do instead of what you can’t, you break free from the shackles. You stop wondering if you can endure, and you look at the world and say, “Yes, I will.” FREE-SPIRITED is my testimony that even when my body is fighting to survive, my spirit is already flying.

HipHopSince1987: From the empowering anthems like “I AM Good Enough” to the deep devotion of “I Struck Gold With You,” you cover a massive emotional spectrum. When new fans experience FREE-SPIRITED from front to back later this year, what is the ultimate revelation or feeling you want them to take away?

TaniA Kyllikki: When new fans experience FREE-SPIRITED from front to back, the ultimate revelation I want them to have is that your current circumstances do not define your final destination. I want them to feel completely liberated.

This album covers a massive emotional spectrum because life itself is a rollercoaster of triumphs and tragedies. By moving from the fierce, self-love anthem of “I AM Good Enough” to the deep, vulnerable devotion of “I Struck Gold With You,” I am showing the listener every side of my soul. I want them to realise that it is entirely okay to be broken, to be hurting, and to be healing all at the same time.

Ultimately, I want FREE-SPIRITED to leave fans feeling invincible. I want them to turn off the music knowing that no matter what hand life deals them, whether it’s illness, heartbreak, or trauma their spirit can never be caged. I want them to walk away with the absolute certainty that they, too, are strong enough to fight, survive, and live completely in their own truth. I will just say this, it’s a very versatile album and writing and producing these songs with my husband / music producer Rynellton, was the best experience of my life. I can’t wait for the world to finally hear it.

HipHopSince1987: You’ve survived an immense amount of darkness, from childhood abuse and severe trauma to the devastating loss of six angel babies with your husband Rynellton. Yet, your music carries a radiant, healing light of positivity and strength. If you could sit down with that little girl resting in those early hospital rooms, what would you tell her about the visionary leader and musical force she has become today?

TaniA Kyllikki: If I could sit down with that fragile little girl resting in those early hospital rooms, I would gently take her hand, look into her eyes, and tell her: “Your pain is not the end of your story; it is the birthplace of your purpose.”

I would tell her that every ounce of darkness she is enduring, the trauma, the abuse, the hospital walls, and even the devastating heartbreaks that lay ahead, like losing our six angel babies, will not break her. I would tell her that the massive, powerful voice inside her small, premature body is a divine shield. I would let her know that she grows up to become a visionary leader and a musical force who refuses to be silenced.

I would tell her that she and her husband, Rynellton, will stand together through the heaviest storms, turning their shared tears into anthems of hope. Her music will become a radiant, healing light for millions of people fighting their own silent battles. I want her to know that she doesn’t just survive; she conquers. She becomes TaniA Kyllikki, a living, breathing musical instrument, a fierce advocate, and a literal lifeline. Her story doesn’t end in adversity; it triumphs in truth.

Keep updated with TaniA Kyllikki’s journey:

Awe Inspiring Records

Follow TaniA Kyllikki On Her Social Media Handles:

YouTube  FaceBook  Instagram

ICY V draws directly from the experiences of growing up in this West Texas city, where a love for music and authentic storytelling shaped his path as an emerging hip-hop artist.

“I’m from San Angelo, Texas,” ICY V said. “Growing up, I always loved music — not just listening to it, but understanding how artists expressed themselves through it. Being surrounded by different styles and personalities inspired me to eventually start creating music of my own. My environment taught me to be authentic and tell my story through my music.”

His early inspirations included J. Cole, CalenRaps and DEEP$IDE, along with the “rapping in the car” era that encouraged him to begin writing. While in school, he collaborated with peers who later formed the group now known as the Block Boyz, spending lunch periods making music in the library. That was the moment he realized music was more than a hobby.

“I was heavily influenced by the whole ‘rapping in the car’ era, which motivated me to start writing my own music,” he said. “That’s when I realized music was something I genuinely loved and wanted to be a part of.”

Consistency has been ICY V’s biggest challenge. After leaving his hometown, he became sidetracked by life and temporarily lost focus on his passion. He recommitted in 2025, beginning work on his debut album, “The Avalanche,” and restructuring his life around music rather than fitting it in around other obligations.

“I’d say my biggest obstacle has been consistency,” ICY V said. “Eventually, I realized that I could pursue my passion no matter where I was. … Since then, I’ve committed to building my life around music instead of trying to fit music around everything else.”

A pivotal moment came in 2025 when his music gained distribution across major platforms. Hearing his tracks playing in everyday settings — at work or in clubs — confirmed he could pursue the career seriously.

“After years of trying to get my music out there, I finally got my music distributed across all major platforms,” he said. “Hearing my songs playing while I was out … was a surreal feeling. That was the moment I realized I could really take this as far as I wanted to.”

ICY V’s sound has evolved from an initial focus on rap to broader experimentation. He aims to reach diverse audiences while remaining true to his roots and personal experiences.

“One thing about my music is that I don’t think I have just one sound,” he said. “I’ve experimented with a lot of different styles and have even more music on the way. … My goal is to create music that can reach different audiences while still staying true to who I am as an artist.”

Listeners, he hopes, will connect with the real emotions in his work.

“When people listen to my music, I want them to hear the hunger, passion, and determination behind it,” ICY V said. “Most of my music comes from personal experiences and real emotions, and I think that’s what helps people connect and relate to it.”

Looking back, his advice to his younger self is straightforward: Stay consistent and trust the process.

“Stay down, stay consistent, and don’t let anything pull you away from what you know you love to do,” he said. “Trust the process, keep working, and believe in yourself even when nobody else does.”

ICY V has described 2026 as a rebuilding year centered on creation, learning, networking and craft development. His debut album, “The Avalanche,” is scheduled for release in 2027, with additional music and increased fan engagement planned.

“I know I’ve been quiet for a while, but I’m coming back full throttle,” he said.

Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/icy_v.325

The opening track, VIDEOSPAZZATURA ( VIDEO TRASH), talks about the television of pain, that is, the one that exploits people’s suffering to gain audiences..IL MOSTRO ( THE MONSTER) is a song about the fear that comes from people’s ignorance about everything that is different and that leads to racism..LA FESTA (THE PARTY) is about a little girl who is teased and ostracized by her peers..ALLA DERIVA ( ADRIFT) is about those who live on the margins, forgotten people who are drifting away. 15 ANNI (15 Years) is a song about the exploitation of minors.UN UOMO GENTILE (A KIND MAN )is a song about a gentle person in an unkind context..ASPIRANTI MODELLE( ASPIRING MODELS )talks about prostitution and IIL GIORNO (THE DAY) closing track talks about war.The album was written, arranged and recorded entirely by De Luca in a studio.

Llink to listen the album:

https://on.soundcloud.com/urQShPP7sdigYlDaXk

Link to listen and dowload the album:

https://marcodeluca.bandcamp.com/album/la-stagione-decisiva

SOCIAL:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063930480737

https://x.com/mdl71

https://www.instagram.com/marcodeluca300/

What’s your artist name and your life history?

Kaos Insane is my artist name as of now. Back in the day when myself, my brother, and Yung Rida formed a group called Bloodline, I was always Kaos da Yung Soljah. Kaos always represented me and what I been through. Da Yung Soljah came from me surviving what I been through.

My father was robbing shit when I was younger, doing niggas dirty, that’s why they called him Dirty Red. He was a beast fr. My mother was a hustla, that’s where I get my hustle hand from. Both my parents was dogs when they was young. Unfortunately, due to my father going to prison for manslaughter and my mother going back and forth to jail and going to prison for hustling hard, being in da streets heavy, it lead me to being an orphan. My siblings also eventually went back home after a few years, but the system wouldn’t let me go. I stayed till I was 19, so I always been independent, always been a soljah.

I survived a lot to become who I am today. It’s so much more, I could write a book foreal, but to make a long story short, and a short story shorter, Kaos Insane is a product of the life he’s lived, product of the hood, the streets, the struggle, and the product of the strength that pushes through to make a way out.

What made me you want to become a musician?

For me music always been an outlet of expressing your try inner self expressing what you been through what you’ve done or what you will do or just simply creating art taking someone life or you life and creating a story. Bone thugs and harmony definitely had and influence on me and a legendary group from my Hood named L.O.H. My brother and I used to beat on the table with pencils and rap and record on a tape recorder we was the start of bloodline. I was just talented at the shit that was gods gift to me.

What are some accomplishments that you are proud of?

To be honest dog I’m proud to be alive I’ve been in many situations where I wasn’t supposed to be here. I’m proud of that I’m proud of the father I’ve become to my kids bruh i do my fucking best I’m proud of never giving up and keep going I’m a soldier at heart so I’ll always keep going no matter what KAOS GONE FIGURE IT OUT I’m proud to be a man first before anything I’m solid foreal.

What strengths do you have that you believe makes you a great artist?

My will to want to be great my mindset my motivations my versatility I’m different I feel like a alien around certain motha fuvkas

Any up-coming projects coming out?

So yeah I already got Jesse Owens out the original one and the Remix out ft Rom C. Wolf also OTT (OUT THE TRAP) out on all platforms the video will be officially out Monday so tune in after that I got Krash Out and Pop My Shit on the way and Never Hate and much more I know this business cost but I still plan on staying consistent as possible and making good business decisions in order to prosper on any level oh yeah and shout out to Hunnafied records dats family don’t get it twisted forever locked in it’s 105th street from Cleveland to NY/ LA….

#KAOSINSANE #HUNNAFIEDRECORDS #CLEVELAND

Jenesis Brown, known professionally as JENESIS, is a 23-year-old rising artist from Montgomery, Alabama, steadily building a name through authenticity, creativity, and a growing presence in the music industry. Born on August 27, 2002, JENESIS represents a new generation of talent determined to bring fresh energy and perspective to modern music.

Coming out of Montgomery, a city with deep cultural roots and an evolving creative scene, JENESIS has embraced the challenge of building an identity that stands apart. Her music reflects emotion, ambition, and personal experiences, allowing listeners to connect with her on a deeper level. This commitment to authenticity has helped her establish a unique voice and a growing audience.

At just 23 years old, JENESIS is already demonstrating the qualities that define long-term success. Her dedication to growth, consistency, and artistic development has positioned her among the emerging names to watch from Alabama. As more listeners discover her music, searches for JENESIS and Jenesis Brown continue to increase across digital platforms.

With momentum steadily building, JENESIS is focused on expanding her catalog, reaching new audiences, and creating music that leaves a lasting impact. Her journey reflects the determination and creativity that continue to shape Alabama’s next generation of artists.

Born in Greensboro and raised in High Point, Makyva discovered his passion for music at just two years old. From singing along to every song on the radio to developing his own unique sound, music became more than a hobby—it became a lifeline. Growing up surrounded by the challenges and violence of his environment, music provided an escape, a purpose, and a way to remain grounded.

“Music is all I have,” Makyva says. Through his music, he transforms pain, struggle, loss, and perseverance into powerful stories that resonate with listeners from all walks of life. His determination to overcome adversity and inspire others fuels his relentless pursuit of success, with a vision of reaching audiences worldwide and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

By 2016, Makyva had begun gaining recognition for his diverse creative talents. Beyond being a rapper and singer, he established himself as a graphic designer, videographer, photographer, audio engineer, and visionary creator. Blessed with a natural artistic gift, Makyva combines authentic storytelling with a commanding stage presence that draws audiences into his world and leaves a lasting impact.

His breakout single, Got DaMMit, is a hard-hitting Hip-Hop/Trap anthem dedicated to those who have endured difficult times and found a way to rise above them. The record showcases the raw emotion, resilience, and authenticity that define his music.

As his journey continues, Makyva remains committed to using his platform to motivate, uplift, and connect with people facing their own battles. His story is still being written, and with every release, he aims to prove that pain can become purpose and struggle can become success.

Website: https://makyva.com/

Music Link: https://lynkify.in/album/all-eyes-on-me/24111272

IG: https://www.instagram.com/makyva

What is your name and what city do you rep?  

I’m originally from Harlem, NY, I’m representing upstate, NY Albany & Schenectady 

Tell us about your latest releases, what inspired you to create them?   

Being a creative & wanting to contribute to the culture.

What is unique about you and your music?

It’s my own life experience 

What shaped your music? 

My environment, art, culture etc.. 

When did you realize you were going to make music professionally? 

When was around age 13

What type of music do you listen to? 

Rap (all genres) R&B 

What inspires you to write music?

Everyday life 

What do you do when you don’t do music (creative or otherwise) and that you are passionate about? 

I’m not passionate about anything else but I like looking at investments (stocks, Real estate investment trust. 

Happiness to you is… 

Peace of mind 

What do you wish you were told when you first started making music that you think would help artists just starting out? 

It’s entertainment, everyone is not a gangsta 

Tell us about your upcoming projects…

L.E. (Lost Etiquette) talks about things I be going through past 10 years 

Where do we find you music / music projects?  

All DSP platforms 

The record arrives as another statement piece from the underground Trill artist, whose music blends his Haitian heritage with the realities of DMV street culture. Known for crafting songs rooted in lived experience, Young Weegi continues that approach on “My N***a,” delivering a hard-hitting tribute to the friends and family members who remained loyal long before success entered the picture.

Built on themes of trust and resilience, the song finds Young Weegi reflecting on betrayal, pressure and the value of maintaining a tight circle. His measured delivery gives each line weight, reinforcing the track’s central idea that genuine relationships carry more value than financial success. The artist’s storytelling remains a defining strength, with every verse designed to communicate purpose rather than simply showcase lyrical ability.

“Young Weegi brings people of all ages together easily, and it captures what it was like to grow up in the 1980s with both old and new influences,” reads a statement about the rapper’s artistic approach. “His performance is strong and confident, capturing the heart of hip-hop while remaining new and important. He shows a lot of respect for the culture in the way he writes the song. Every bar seems planned, and every moment has meaning. It is what someone says when they really mean it when they say ‘Thank You Hip Hop.’”

Boosie Badazz, born Torrence Hatch Jr., adds a seasoned perspective to the collaboration. The Baton Rouge rapper has spent more than two decades building a catalog defined by street wisdom, emotional honesty and survival narratives. On “My N***a,” he leans into those familiar themes, delivering a verse centered on loyalty, loss and standing by those who never switched sides.

Rather than glorifying street life, “My N***a” focuses on appreciation and brotherhood. The track serves as a reminder that accomplishments mean little without trusted people to share them with. For fans of Southern rap, the collaboration pairs Young Weegi’s hunger and ambition with Boosie’s veteran insight, creating a record grounded in authenticity and mutual respect.

Amazon Music has officially launched its 2026 Black Music Month campaign with an exclusive Amazon Music Original cover of Earth, Wind & Fire’s iconic hit, “Let’s Groove,” performed by Bernarr. Released on June 5, the track serves as the first major offering in Amazon Music’s month long celebration highlighting the genius, impact and legacy of Black music.

Rather than simply recreating the beloved record, Bernarr infuses the song with his signature vocal style and contagious energy while preserving the joy and spirit that made the original a cultural staple. The cover carries special significance for the singer, whose connection to Earth, Wind & Fire extends beyond admiration. Bernarr’s father worked closely with the legendary group as a sound engineer and production manager, making the band’s music a defining part of his childhood.

“Earth, Wind & Fire’s music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember,” Bernarr shared in a statement. “My father worked closely with the band for years, so these songs weren’t just records in our house, they were part of the soundtrack of my upbringing.”

He continued, “Getting the opportunity to reimagine ‘Let’s Groove’ for Amazon Music during Black Music Month felt incredibly special. I wanted to honor the joy, musicianship, and legacy that Earth, Wind & Fire created while bringing my own perspective and energy to a song that continues to move people generations later.“

The tribute has also earned praise from Earth, Wind & Fire themselves. Philip Bailey, the legendary singer, songwriter, and percussionist for the group, applauded Bernarr’s interpretation of the classic.

“Durand’s version of ‘Let’s Groove’ is super hot! And we expect nothing less from the young student of music who used to sit on the side of the stage taking in our concerts, wide eyed, ears open,” Bailey said. “He’s not a student anymore. Durand has arrived, and we are so proud to call him family.”

The release arrives during one of the most successful periods of Bernarr’s career. Earlier this year, he earned his first Grammy Award for Best Progressive R&B Album with BLOOM, a project that further established him as one of contemporary R&B’s most innovative and fearless voices. He recently followed that achievement with the release of BERNARR., a deeply personal self-titled album that honors his family legacy while showcasing his continued artistic evolution.

Featuring appearances from Big Sean, BJ The Chicago Kid, James Fauntleroy, Khalid, Sevyn Streeter, and Vic Mensa, BERNARR. has been met with widespread acclaim from both critics and fans.

As Black Music Month continues, Bernarr’s rendition of “Let’s Groove” serves as both a celebration of musical heritage and a reminder of how timeless songs can find new life through a new generation of artists.

Introduction

Darren Herft believes AI-generated music will become one of the defining forces shaping the future of the music industry. He says AI-generated music is changing how music is created, distributed, and monetized. Because of this, the industry is now forced to rethink authorship, royalties, and artist compensation.

Streaming is bigger than ever. Global recorded music revenue grew to $31.7 billion in 2025, and roughly 837 million people now pay for a subscription. At the same time, AI has started producing music at a scale no one expected. The streaming platform Deezer reported it was receiving up to 50,000 fully AI-generated tracks every day by late 2025.

In blind tests, most listeners could not tell the difference between AI music and human music. Darren Herft‘s point is that the industry is richer than ever, but it now faces a question it has never had to answer before.

The New Question Facing Music

For two decades, the big question in music was about format. How would people listen next? Today the question is about origin. When AI can create a believable track in seconds, new problems appear.

Who gets paid? How is money divided when many of the uploads have no human creator behind them? And how does a platform protect the human music its subscribers actually came to hear?

These are the questions Darren Herft has focused on in his recent commentary on AI and streaming.

Why Streaming Economics Make This Harder

To understand why AI matters so much, you have to understand how streaming pays artists. Most platforms use a shared pool of money. Every track competes for a piece of the same pool. So every new track, human or machine, takes a small share of what everyone else earns.

Now add 50,000 new AI tracks a day. Even if most of them get very few plays, together they pull money away from human artists. Darren Herft makes a sharp point here and says that AI does not need to create hit songs to affect streaming but it only needs to create volume.

The Challenge Platforms Face

Streaming platforms are in a strange spot. Revenue and subscriber numbers are at record highs. Yet trust in the music itself is under pressure, because AI tools can now produce tracks that sound just as good as human ones. Many artists already use these tools in some parts of their work.

So platforms have to do two things at once. They need to protect the value of human music, and they also need to use the real benefits AI offers. The goal is to do this without pushing away artists or subscribers.

Darren Herft points to a few clear steps platforms can take. They can label AI music so listeners know what they are hearing. They can design royalty systems so AI volume does not drain money from human artists. They can set up licensing deals that pay the artists whose work trained the AI. And they can build new types of products that depend on human presence and community, which AI cannot easily copy.

Platforms that get this right will protect their core strength and open up new income. Platforms that get it wrong risk becoming dumping grounds for endless content, where neither artists nor listeners feel supported.

Where the Money Is Heading

A major study projected that AI music could make up around 20% of streaming platform revenue by 2028. That is a striking figure. It means a fifth of streaming income could be tied to machine-made music within a few years.

For investors, this changes the questions worth asking about a music-technology company. How does the company handle AI music? Does it have licensing deals that will hold up as copyright lawsuits grow? Does it earn money in ways that do not depend only on streaming plays? Darren Herft tends to focus on exactly these points, because they separate a company that is simply riding a trend from one built to last.

What This Means for Artists and Listeners

For artists, the message is mixed. AI tools can lower costs and speed up the creative process, which is why so many musicians already use them. But the same tools can flood the platforms where artists earn their income. Darren Herft advises to use AI as a tool, but push hard for clear labelling, consent, and fair pay.

For listeners, the takeaway is quieter but just as real. The music economy you take part in every month is being rewritten. The choices platforms make about AI will help decide which artists can afford to keep making the music you love.

Conclusion

Music now has AI inside it at full scale, and the industry is both stronger and more exposed than ever. Record revenues sit next to a flood of machine-made tracks. The platforms that handle this well will shape the next ten years of the business.

Darren Herft‘s view matters because he treats AI as more than a technical story. He sees it as a question about trust, value, and human creativity. For anyone trying to understand where music streaming goes next, his perspective keeps both the technology and the money in clear view.

FAQs

What is AI-generated music?

ANS: It is music made wholly or partly by artificial intelligence trained on large libraries of existing recordings. Some tracks are fully machine-made. Many others are a mix, where an artist uses AI for parts of the work such as mastering or idea generation.

Is AI-generated music legal?

ANS: The law is still unsettled and differs from country to country. The biggest open questions are whether training AI on copyrighted music without permission is allowed, and who owns the result.

How does AI music affect artists’ royalties?

ANS: Most platforms pay from a shared pool. So a large volume of AI tracks can reduce the value of each play for human artists, even if each AI track earns very little on its own.

How should investors evaluate AI-music companies?

ANS: Look beyond subscriber growth. Check the company’s licensing deals, its exposure to copyright lawsuits, its labelling practices, and whether it earns money outside of streaming plays, such as through live events or fan products.

Can listeners tell AI music from human music?

ANS: Increasingly, no. Blind tests suggest most listeners cannot reliably tell the two apart. That is exactly why clear labelling has become such an urgent issue.

The underground rap scene continues to produce some of the most exciting talent in music, and one artist steadily making noise is Rexxochasin. With a unique sound, undeniable energy, and a growing fanbase, Rexxochasin is proving that he’s more than just another name in the underground—he’s an artist with the potential to break through on a much larger scale.

Known for blending hard-hitting production with melodic flows and emotionally driven lyrics, Rexxochasin has carved out a lane of his own. His music captures the raw authenticity that fans crave while maintaining the versatility needed to stand out in today’s rapidly evolving hip-hop landscape.

What separates Rexxochasin from many of his peers is his ability to balance aggression, emotion, and creativity in a way that feels genuine. Whether he’s delivering high-energy records designed to turn up a crowd or more introspective tracks that give listeners a glimpse into his mindset, his passion for the craft is evident in every release.

As streaming platforms and social media continue to amplify his reach, Rexxochasin’s audience continues to grow. Fans are drawn not only to the music but also to the artist’s dedication, consistency, and willingness to push boundaries creatively.

In an era where originality matters more than ever, Rexxochasin represents the next generation of artists shaping the future of hip-hop. His journey is still unfolding, but the foundation is already being built for something much bigger.

For those who haven’t tapped in yet, now is the perfect time to get familiar with Rexxochasin. With momentum on his side and a growing catalog of music, he’s undoubtedly an artist to watch in the years ahead.

Follow Rexxochasin on social media and streaming platforms to stay updated on new music, upcoming releases, and what’s next for one of the underground’s rising talents.

Instagram.com/rexxochasin

Emerging artist Classic City is steadily making his mark in today’s independent music landscape. As a recent signee to N.F.U Entertainment, the rising talent continues to build momentum through authentic storytelling, compelling records, and a growing audience that spans across the globe.

His latest single, “Survivor,” has already surpassed 1,000 streams, marking an important milestone in his developing career. Driven by themes of resilience, perseverance, and overcoming adversity, the record reflects the life experiences that have helped shape Classic City’s artistic identity and connect with listeners on a deeper level.

Beyond the success of “Survivor,” Classic City is also expanding his digital presence, with his TikTok platform surpassing 35,000 total views worldwide and continuing to grow. The increasing engagement across social media signals a promising trajectory for an artist who is steadily building both his fanbase and brand.

Under the guidance of N.F.U Entertainment and through its partnership with Perfect Distro, Classic City is benefiting from strategic artist development, distribution, and marketing support designed to foster long-term career growth. Together, the organizations are focused on helping artists scale their reach while maintaining creative independence.

As momentum continues to build and new music remains on the horizon, Classic City is entering an exciting chapter in his journey. With growing support from listeners and an expanding global presence, he is laying the foundation for a promising future in music.

For Classic City, “Survivor” represents more than a release—it’s a reflection of perseverance, growth, and the determination to rise above obstacles. With N.F.U Entertainment and Perfect Distro behind him, the future looks bright for an artist whose story is only beginning.

Follow Classic City for upcoming releases, performances, and announcements as his rise continues.

IG Link : https://www.instagram.com/classiccitysfinest?utm_source=qr

Song link : http://perfect.vyd.co/ClassicCitySurvivor

TikTok link : https://www.tiktok.com/@classiccitysfinest?_r=1&_t=ZT-97C5hAk0r1S

Melody Makers is doing what most arts institutions in the region never bothered to figure out: putting world-class music education in front of anyone who wants it, from age four to sixty-plus, with the credentials to back it all up.

The music education world has always operated on a certain kind of gatekeeping. The serious schools are expensive. The qualified teachers are hard to find. And the path from your first guitar lesson to a recognized international certification has historically been anything but clear. A place called Melody Makers, sitting in the heart of Karama in Dubai, has quietly been dismantling all of that since 1997.

What started as Dubai’s first and longest-running music school has grown into something that is genuinely hard to find anywhere in the region. Piano, guitar, violin, bass, drums, Western vocals, music theory, hip-hop and jazz dance, Bharatanatyam, Kathak, speech and drama, fine art, and creative writing. All of it under one roof. All of it is taught by expert tutors in private one-to-one settings or small groups of no more than three students. Every student gets their own instrument. Nobody shares.

Certified Where It Actually Counts

Plenty of music schools in this part of the world will tell you they are serious about qualifications. Melody Makers is one of the few that can prove it. The school is a registered Trinity College London exam centre, number 60920, covering western music, vocals, and speech and drama. They are also certified by ABGMVM for Indian classical dance and approved by the KHDA as a Dubai training centre. That is not a marketing line. That is a credentials stack that took decades to build and means every student who walks through the door can work toward internationally recognized qualifications.

The reviews tell the same story. One student, Carlito Gonsalves, has been attending for eight years. Another, Michelle Jessica, started during COVID as a school student and is still taking weekly singing classes now that she is in university. A parent named Sivakumar Chandrasekar has had two sons go through the keyboard and piano programs, the first for seven years and the second for three. That kind of retention does not happen at a place that is just going through the motions.

No Waitlists, No Runaround, No Excuses

There is a conversation that happens in a lot of performing arts cities, and Dubai is no exception to it. Parents want structured, credentialed instruction for their kids. Adults want lessons that actually fit around a real schedule. And everyone has sat through at least one experience where a school talked a big game and then delivered something inconsistent. Melody Makers was built around the opposite of that.

The model is direct. Book a free 30-minute trial lesson, no payment required, no commitment attached. Classes run Monday through Saturday at the Karama studio, accessible by car and by Dubai Metro. For students who cannot make it in person, online classes run across time zones via Zoom, which is how the school has students joining from across Dubai, from India, and from Australia. Transport services are available to certain Dubai locations for the Karama studio. The school has thought through the friction points and removed them.

Built for the Way the Culture Actually Moves

Something has shifted in how families in Dubai think about arts education, and Melody Makers has been tracking it carefully. The program list now goes beyond traditional instruments and classical forms. Western dance at the Karama studio covers hip hop, jazz, and contemporary alongside Bollywood. Fine arts cover drawing, painting, and mixed media. Communication classes cover speech and drama, effective communication, and creative writing. Future skills programming is expanding. The school is not stuck in one decade of what music and arts education should look like.

Whether you are a parent who wants your kid to build real performance confidence, a teenager trying to get serious about an instrument before university, or an adult who has been putting off learning guitar for the last ten years, Melody Makers has been ready for you since before most of today’s students were born. The teachers are there. The certifications are real. The free trial is waiting.

Dubai has had a world-class music school in Karama this whole time. Now you know.

ABOUT MELODY MAKERS

Website: melodymakers.ae

Instagram: @melodymakersdubai

Phone: +971 4 335 1221

Location: C 110, Karama Center, Kuwait Road, Al Karama, Dubai

Independent Filipino artist Kumare Harvey knows what it’s like to spend years chasing opportunities that never seem to come.

For nearly six years, he built his career the way countless independent artists do—writing songs, performing wherever he could, building a following online and hoping the right people would eventually hear what he had to say.

Then everything changed.

Within eight days of joining talent discovery platform MyTalent, Harvey secured international radio support across North and South America, entered discussions that led to a recording agreement with Umbrella Records and began building relationships that would ultimately expand his reach far beyond the Philippines.

For an artist who spent years fighting to be heard, the speed of the breakthrough has been difficult to process.

“It feels surreal because everything is happening so fast,” Harvey told HipHopSince1987.

“As an independent musician, you’re used to waiting months just to release a new single. I’ve been working toward opportunities like this my entire career, and I’ve never been more ready.”

Built From the Ground Up

Harvey’s journey started during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he began writing lyrics and posting performances on TikTok.

What started as a creative outlet quickly evolved into something more.

As his confidence grew, so did his ambitions.

One of the turning points came through Club Euphoria, a collective that gave emerging artists opportunities to perform and develop their craft.

“They were the first people to truly believe in me and gave me opportunities to perform,” Harvey said.

“Those stages became my training ground.”

The exposure eventually led to songwriting opportunities and collaborations with some of the Philippines’ most recognizable entertainers, including Sassa Gurl, Marina Summers and performers associated with Drag Den and Slaysian Royale.

Those experiences helped establish Harvey as both a songwriter and performer while connecting him to one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing creator communities.

From Local Stages to International Airplay

Shortly after joining MyTalent, Harvey’s music began attracting attention outside the Philippines.

His records secured support from radio stations across North and South America while also entering rotation throughout Brazil, one of the world’s largest music markets.

His music is currently receiving support from stations including Ouro Verde FM 105.9, Nova Aliança FM 87.9, AEMULA, Rádio Estilo de Jogo, MAGA FM, Duca FM and several others throughout Brazil.

“It means a lot to me as an artist who simply wanted my voice to be heard,” Harvey said.

“Knowing that people in different countries are listening to my music is something I’m still trying to process.”

The Next Chapter

Harvey’s next release will become the first official project launched through his new partnership with Umbrella Records and MyTalent.

The release is expected to introduce his music to an even larger international audience while serving as a blueprint for how independent artists can leverage community, industry relationships and global distribution to expand beyond their local markets.

Despite the recent success, Harvey says his focus hasn’t changed.

The goal is still growth.

The goal is still creating.

And the goal is still reaching people through music.

Over the next year, he plans to release new music, pursue international collaborations and continue building a career that once seemed impossible.

“My favorite part of being an artist is being in the studio and creating,” Harvey said.

“That’s where the magic happens. The next chapter is going to be bigger, bolder and unapologetically me.”

A Message to Independent Artists

As someone who spent years wondering if his breakthrough would ever come, Harvey believes the biggest challenge facing independent artists is simply finding the right support system.

“The biggest challenge for independent artists is finding community,” he said.

“The creative world is built on relationships. Without support and collaboration, it’s difficult to build a network and grow.”

Today, his music is reaching listeners across multiple continents.

Less than a month ago, he was simply another independent artist uploading his work and hoping someone would notice.

His message to artists chasing their own breakthrough remains simple:

“Just put your work out there.”

“You never know who’s listening.”

Fonati Pennoh, widely known as FP, is a Navy veteran, fitness motivator, entrepreneur, and cofounder of Family First Fitness. Raised in a Liberian American household, he was taught the importance of education, discipline, and hard work from an early age. Those values became the foundation that helped shape his character and prepare him for life’s many challenges.

FP proudly served in the United States Navy, completing multiple combat deployments and gaining experiences that strengthened his resilience and commitment to personal growth. His military service exposed him to different cultures and perspectives while reinforcing the mindset that success comes through consistency, accountability, and perseverance.

One of the most difficult moments in his life came at the age of 22 when he lost his mother to cancer. As the oldest sibling, FP found himself helping guide his younger brother and sister through a challenging period without the support they once relied on. Although the loss was devastating, it taught him the importance of responsibility, leadership, and pushing forward despite adversity.

Years later, during the COVID 19 pandemic, FP faced another major obstacle when he experienced homelessness while his newborn daughter entered the world. Living out of his car and navigating uncertainty, he refused to surrender to his circumstances. Instead, he dedicated his time to self improvement, using public spaces to train and libraries to study while earning certifications that helped create a new path for his future.

Those experiences inspired the creation of Family First Fitness, a brand built around healthy living, family wellness, and personal accountability. Alongside his longtime friend and fellow veteran JP, whom he met while deployed in Afghanistan, FP transformed a shared passion for fitness into a platform designed to motivate and empower others. Together, they promote the belief that fitness is not just about appearance. It is about mental strength, confidence, and longevity.

Today, FP continues to inspire people through Family First Fitness and the FP and JP Show, where he shares stories, motivation, and practical advice for building a healthier lifestyle. His mission is simple: encourage people to stop making excuses, take ownership of their goals, and understand that no matter how difficult life becomes, perseverance and discipline can create opportunities for a better future. Through his journey, FP proves that setbacks do not define a person. How they respond to them does.

‘For the first time in six years, Pittsburgh artist Jordan York is returning to the stage.

The two-time Pittsburgh Pop Artist of the Year winner will perform July 31 at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille alongside The Prince Project marking a long awaited live comeback for fans who have not seen him perform since his hiatus began.

Along with his return to the stage York is also back in the studio recording a new single set to release later this summer. The track will be his first new music in years and signals the start of a fresh chapter in his career.

His time away from performing was shaped by a mix of life changes and shifting priorities. The COVID-19 pandemic slowed the live music scene and during that period York stepped into fatherhood raising two children. At the same time he shifted focus toward fitness and bodybuilding where he found a new challenge outside of music. He has since competed in two bodybuilding shows and is now preparing for his third this fall.

Before stepping away York had built a strong presence in the Pittsburgh music scene earning multiple awards and developing a loyal following through his original music and high energy live performances across the region.

Now after six years off stage he returns with a more grounded but energized approach. The experiences away from music have shaped his perspective but the connection to performing and creating never left.

The July 31 show at Jergel’s is expected to be a standout summer event pairing York’s return with a performance from The Prince Project known for their tribute to Prince and his music.

With new music on the way and a return to live shows York’s comeback marks a new phase built on experience growth and a renewed focus on performing.

Get tickets for July 31st Live performance here: https://druskyentertainment.com/event/the-prince-project-13/jergels-rhythm-grille/

B The Wiser is a singer, songwriter, and producer — and the founder of what he calls the world’s first AI-powered music rollout planner.
Most artists treat the music and the business as two separate jobs. Brian Nguyen II — known as B The Wiser — treats them as the same one.
Out of Austin, Texas, he’s an artist, singer-songwriter, producer/engineer, COO of 360 Skyline Studios, and founder of Dropkit. On paper that’s four careers. In practice it’s one throughline: an obsession with the full life of a song, from the booth to the fan.

Ask any independent artist what’s hardest about releasing music and few will say making it. The hard part is the rollout — the timing, the teasers, the pre-saves, the playlists, the dozen small decisions that turn a finished track into something people actually hear. Most artists fly blind through it and watch good songs disappear.

So B The Wiser built a tool for it. Dropkit is an AI-powered music rollout planner aimed at the independent artist who has the talent but not the team — major-label release strategy without needing a major label. It’s the kind of idea that only comes from someone who’s lived it, both as an artist putting out his own work and as an engineer watching it happen to everyone who came through the studio.

None of it would matter if the music didn’t hold up. B The Wiser is an artist first — the business instincts grew out of the creative ones. His work, including the track “Wings,” carries the fingerprints of someone who produces and engineers his own material, with his hands on every layer of the sound. Based in a city that’s always rewarded artists who do it themselves, he fits the lineage and pushes it forward.
The story here isn’t one song or one app. It’s a shift in what being an artist means now: the line between making music and running the business of music is disappearing, and the ones who thrive understand both. B The Wiser is betting his whole career on that — and building the tools to prove it.

Links to his music

https://bthewiser.com/music

Born Ackiem in South East London and raised in East London, Kemo Artist never chose music it chose him.

Long before the stages, recordings, and growing fanbase, there was a young boy standing backstage watching his older sister and her boyfriend perform. While most kids his age were simply spectators, Kemo was being introduced to something bigger. They would occasionally bring him on stage, giving him a glimpse into a world he would eventually call home.

Music surrounded him from the beginning.

His grandmother gave him the name “Kemo,” a shortened version of his real name that stayed with him throughout life. What started as a family nickname became an identity. Family, friends, and now fans know him simply as Kemo a name rooted in where he comes from and the people who shaped him.

Growing up, his mother’s extensive music collection exposed him to countless sounds and styles. From Michael Jackson’s electrifying performances to Eminem’s storytelling, 50 Cent’s resilience, Kanye West’s creativity, Lil Wayne’s lyricism, Drake’s versatility, Chris Brown’s artistry, and UK legends like Skepta, Wiley, and Dizzee Rascal, Kemo absorbed inspiration from every angle.

But talent alone doesn’t build a career.

Throughout high school, Kemo spent lunch breaks recording grime tracks and writing lyrics. The passion was always there, but like many artists, he didn’t fully understand how to turn that passion into a profession. For years, music remained a hobby while he searched for direction.
In 2019, everything changed.

That was the year Kemo made the decision to take music seriously. He committed himself to the craft, determined to transform years of preparation into something real.

His sound became a reflection of his life: raw, organic, and resilient.

Those three words don’t just describe his music they describe his journey.

One of the defining moments in his career came through a freestyle. There wasn’t a major label involved. No viral gimmick. No manufactured moment. Just pure creativity. While recording, Kemo experienced what he describes as a creative vortex a feeling so powerful that he knew he was operating at a different level. It was the moment he realized his potential wasn’t imagined; it was real.

Since then, he has accomplished what many artists dream of.

He’s worked his way through the UK music circuit and achieved one of the biggest milestones of his career by performing at the O2. For many artists, that would be the pinnacle.

For Kemo, it’s just the beginning.
Life, however, doesn’t pause for success.

One of the greatest challenges Kemo has faced was the loss of his aunt, someone he considered his go-to person and trusted source of advice. The loss was devastating. Yet instead of allowing grief to consume him, he turned to the one thing that had always helped him process life: writing.

For Kemo, songwriting became therapy.

Every lyric became a place to document emotions, heal wounds, and keep moving forward. Through creativity, he found strength. Through music, he found purpose.

Today, Kemo continues building toward the future. His current focus is on his upcoming project, Don’t Quit 2, a title that perfectly captures both his message and his mindset.

When listeners hear Kemo Artist, he wants them to understand one thing:

Everyone experiences highs and lows.

Everyone faces obstacles.

Everyone encounters moments when quitting feels easier than continuing.

But anything is possible if you refuse to give up.

His advice to aspiring artists is simple:

“Release the music and keep writing.”

No overcomplicated formula. No secret shortcut. Just consistency, faith, and persistence.

As Kemo prepares for his next chapter, one message remains at the center of everything he does:

The journey isn’t over.

The best is yet to come.

And no matter what life throws your way—

Don’t Quit.

– written by the staff team.
@4everconnects. – dank.

Links
https://x.com/kemoartist

https://youtube.com/@kemoartist?si=sIm2ojXTIu1nIt_l

https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/kemo/1589029794

https://www.tiktok.com/@kemo.artist

https://www.instagram.com/kemoartist_

Planning a day on the sand? LAXCC sits right on Lincoln Blvd between two of LA’s best beaches — minutes from Playa del Rey and a short ride from the Santa Monica Pier. Here’s how to get here from each, and what to know before you go.

One Dispensary, Two Iconic LA Beaches

There’s a reason LAXCC has become the go-to stop for a Westside beach day. The shop sits right on Lincoln Boulevard (Highway 1) — the same coastal artery that runs past both the Santa Monica Pier and Playa del Rey beach. Whichever stretch of sand you’re headed to, you don’t have to detour far inland to grab what you need first.

LAXCC is a top-rated Los Angeles dispensary that pairs an easy location with a deep menu of the best California brands at every budget — from flower and pre-rolls to edibles. Below we break down both beaches — what makes each one worth your afternoon — and exactly how long it takes to reach the shop by car, rideshare, bike, or on foot.

Santa Monica Pier — The Classic (about 7 miles north of LAXCC)

The most famous boardwalk in Los Angeles. The pier packs the Pacific Park Ferris wheel and roller coaster, the original carousel, street performers, and the official end of Route 66 — all over a wide, golden beach. It’s lively, family-friendly, and busy, especially on weekends. Come for the people-watching, the arcade, and a long walk on the Marvin Braude beach path; expect crowds and paid parking, so an early start (or a rideshare) pays off. Making a day of it? LAXCC is the closest top-rated dispensary near Santa Monica to stock up before you go.

Getting to LAXCC from the Santa Monica Pier:

• Drive: about 15–25 minutes straight down Lincoln Blvd, depending on traffic.
• Uber / Lyft: about 15–25 minutes — usually the easiest option on a busy beach day.
• Bike: about 40–50 minutes, mostly along The Strand beach path, then a few blocks inland.
• Walk: roughly 2.5 hours — scenic but long; better as a ride or a bike.

Playa del Rey Beach — The Local Secret (about 2.5–3 miles from LAXCC)

The Westside’s mellow, under-the-radar beach. Playa del Rey is wide, calm, and far less crowded than its northern neighbors — a favorite for sunset watchers, dog walkers, and anyone who wants sand without the circus. It sits where Ballona Creek meets the ocean, with easy street parking, low-key cafes, and some of the best plane-spotting and golden-hour views in LA. This is the closest real beach to the shop, which makes it the easy choice for a quick chill day — see our full guide to the dispensary near Playa del Rey beach.

Getting to LAXCC from Playa del Rey beach:

• Drive: about 8–12 minutes via Culver Blvd / Jefferson to Lincoln.
• Uber / Lyft: about 8–12 minutes — a short, low-cost hop.
• Bike: about 15–20 minutes — flat, easy, and genuinely pleasant.
• Walk: about 45–60 minutes — totally doable for the energetic.

One Quick Heads-Up Before the Beach

In California it’s illegal to consume cannabis in public — that includes beaches, piers, boardwalks, parks, and your car. The move is simple: stock up at LAXCC, then enjoy it legally at your hotel, rental, or private residence. Plan ahead, keep products sealed in transit, and never drive under the influence. Adults 21+ only.

Why LAXCC Is the Beach-Day Move

• Right on the way. LAXCC sits on Lincoln Blvd, the coastal road connecting both beaches — no long inland detour.
• Every budget. The best California brands across value, mid-shelf, and top-shelf — over 80 of them. Whether you’ve got $5 or $175, there’s something picked for you.
• In and out fast. Order ahead for pickup or walk in. Pickup, curbside, and drive-thru options mean less time in line and more time on the sand.
• Top-rated. A near-perfect rating built on honest pricing and tailored recommendations from budtenders who nail the pick.
• Daily deals. Rotating promos, bundles, and first-time visitor specials — check today’s deals before you head out.
• Minutes from LAX. Flying in for the beach? The shop is about 5 minutes from LAX Airport.

Beach Day FAQ

What’s the closest dispensary to Playa del Rey beach?

LAXCC, at 8332 Lincoln Blvd, is about 2.5–3 miles away — roughly 8–12 minutes by car or rideshare, 15–20 minutes by bike. It’s the closest top-rated dispensary to the Playa del Rey sand.

How far is LAXCC from the Santa Monica Pier?

About 7 miles south down Lincoln Blvd — generally a 15–25 minute drive or rideshare depending on traffic, or roughly 40–50 minutes by bike along the beach path.

Can I smoke on the beach in LA?

No. California prohibits cannabis (and tobacco) use on public beaches, piers, and parks. Buy what you need at LAXCC and consume it legally and privately at your hotel, rental, or home. Never drive under the influence.

Should I order ahead or walk in?

Either works. On a busy beach day, ordering ahead for pickup is the fastest — it’s ready when you arrive. Walk-ins are always welcome too, and curbside and drive-thru options keep it quick.

Where is LAXCC and what are the hours?

LAXCC is at 8332 Lincoln Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045 — on Highway 1 between both beaches and about 5 minutes from LAX Airport. Open daily; adults 21+ (medical 18+).

Grab It, Then Hit the Sand

Browse the menu, reserve for pickup, and stop in on your way to Santa Monica Pier or Playa del Rey beach. The best California brands at every budget — right on the coastal route. LAXCC • 8332 Lincoln Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045 • Open Daily • Adults 21+.

For adults 21+ (medical 18+). Travel times are estimates and vary with traffic, weather, and conditions — check a live map before you go. Cannabis may not be consumed in public spaces, including beaches and piers. Please consume responsibly and never operate a vehicle under the influence.

Visit LAX CC

LAX CC

8332 Lincoln Blvd

Los Angeles, CA 90045

Daily: 9 AM to 9:30 PM

(310) 429-3789  

Independent artist Yzhood has officially released his new album, Encore, now available on Apple Music. The album made an impressive chart debut, reaching No. 1 on the Canada iTunes Dance Chart and No. 2 on the U.S. iTunes Dance Chart.

The project marks another important step in Yzhood’s musical journey, showcasing his continued growth as an artist while delivering a collection of songs built around creativity, self-expression, and ambition. The title Encore reflects the idea of continuing to evolve and giving listeners another chapter of music that builds on previous successes.

Throughout the album, Yzhood explores a range of emotions and experiences, blending energy, storytelling, and authenticity into a project designed to connect with both longtime supporters and new listeners.

As independent artists continue to carve their own paths in today’s music industry, Encore stands as a testament to Yzhood’s dedication, consistency, and passion for creating meaningful music.

With the album now available worldwide, Yzhood invites listeners to experience the next phase of his artistic evolution.

Listen to Encore:
https://music.apple.com/us/album/encore/6779408338

Music Links

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_nNJqnzLu0oP9-zmjgQobwgJNvgWD2JRA8&si=HXThokCFZ5ZFvXJT

https://open.spotify.com/album/72KAqVCzOhrupuNwSQTIWR?si=SkNh5i1EQMWI248zGeQAyA

https://www.facebook.com/yzhood/

​The Connecticut hip-hop scene is officially on notice. Today, Arson Entertainment’s newest powerhouse, Old School Show, dropped his highly anticipated single “Love Stories,” and it’s already generating massive waves.

​Serving as his official debut under the Arson banner, “Love Stories” proves exactly why the label tapped him for their next generation of elite talent. Arson Entertainment has been consistently disrupting the independent circuit and shaking up the iTunes charts, and this latest release keeps that relentless momentum moving forward.

​The Vibe: Raw talent meets modern execution.

​The Verdict: Whether you’ve been tracking the CT movement for years or you’re just looking for the perfect track to anchor your weekend playlist, this is an absolute must-listen.

​”Love Stories” is available to stream right now on all major platforms. Tap in, add it to your rotation, and keep your eyes peeled—Arson’s highly anticipated Apex album is set to drop later this summer.