Real Chicago Music - The Hip-Hop Web Portal for Independent Artists

CARV - "Hell Hole" (Video)

2026-10-24T20:58:42.743-05:00

CARV is a poetic singer/songwriter from the small town of Bradford, Ontario, Canada. His lyrics paint vivid pictures of the stories he tells, like movies, carefully conveying deeply personal details with intoxicating melodies. CARV’s single “Hell Hole” has taken off with over12.2M streams, and inspiring over 78K UGC created on TikTok. He crafts pure and unfiltered songs with authentic feelings and imagery, inspiring listeners to close their eyes and feel every emotion. His music is stripped down, honest, vulnerable, nostalgic, and therapeutic. CARV set the stage for major moves by assembling a team of elite heavyweights. He’s signed to one percent sound/Rebel Music on the label side. For his publishing, CARV inked a deal with powerhouse industry partners Big Loud, ERN’s Cadillac Music, and Charlie Handsome. With Big Loud boasting 90 No. 1 singles, 3 GRAMMYs, and over 300 hit releases; ERN’s Cadillac Music launched by hitmaker and chart-topping songwriter ERNEST; and Charlie Handsome, the multi-award-winning producer and songwriter behind smash hits for Morgan Wallen, Drake, Post Malone and more, CARV is primed for success. CARV grew up with an inherited passion for music. His father plays in a band and taught him guitar at an early age. His love for playing and listening to music eventually evolved into an insatiable appetite for writing his own original songs. He tells personally revealing stories of love, life, and heartbreak in his music and makes no apologies about wearing his heart on his sleeve. At 20 years old, CARV is from a generation that values emotional awareness and self-care. His music relates to many because he sings what they are feeling. What most people internalize, he sings out loud, with unique melodies that feel comfortingly familiar. CARV makes acoustic-driven, narrative rich music, often with bare-bones arrangements, accentuating the impact of every sonic nuance and every word. His intimate, organic sound has many influences and sources of inspiration, including nature and the beauty of the world in general. He romanticizes scenes like mountains, pine trees covered in snow, and the skyline of a big city, and he stays in those moments by fully embracing them. He describes his music as immersive and colorful, and he focuses on how songs make a person feel, the true emotions being drawn out when they close their eyes and listen. CARV’s music embodies the heartfelt and introspective lyricism of Ed Sheeran, coupled with the creative and clever storytelling prowess of Frank Oceanand Lewis Capaldi. His songs are a harmonious blend of emotive vocals, relatable narratives, and a genuine connection with the audience. His stories take shape, like a sculptor who works in negative space, removing the noise to reveal an image. CARV isa true artist and musical sculptor, and he will CARV out his place in music, one song at a time. CARV is a singer-songwriter from Bradford, Ontario whose vivid, cinematic lyrics and emotional vocals create an immediate connection with listeners. His single Hell Hole has inspired over 525k TikTok UGC videos and generated over 31M streams worldwide (LUMINATE data). For Apple Music, Hell Hole is featured on premier playlists including Today’s Country, Country Hits Unplugged, Canada’s Country, Country Risers, and New in Americana. On Spotify, CARV was selected as a Spotify Fresh Finds Artist as his music continues to build momentum. Across socials, Hell Hole continues to build organically, proving CARV as a breakout voice in emotionally driven country/pop/folk, and featured on @country, @countryqueue, and @greatcountrymusic. Signed to one percent sound/Rebel Music with publishing backed by Big Loud, ERNEST’s Cadillac Music, and Charlie Handsome, CARV pairs vulnerable storytelling with melodic strength, bringing a nostalgic, heartfelt edge to his signature sound. CARV is carving out his lane as one of the most emotionally resonant young singer-songwriters to watch.

Nani Wells - "iGIRL" (Video)

2026-10-24T13:52:16.934-05:00

Nani Wells is on her way to becoming Hollywood's new it girl, and she makes it known through the debut of her new single and music video “iGirl”. Visually, “iGirl” is striking in its restraint. The video leans into muted greys and simplicity, allowing Nani Wells’ presence to take the spotlight, rather than relying on flashy colors or excessive editing. Through sharp choreography and a standout pair of red boots, Nani Wells delivers a performance that is confident, effortless, and impossible to look away from. “The simplicity was intentional because I believed our performances were strong enough to stand on their own,” Nani Wells shares. The inspiration behind “iGirl” came from Nani Well’s favorite music videos growing up. She remembers being completely drawn in by the women in those videos and their boldness, allure, and undeniable magnetism. She wanted to recreate that energy in her own video, creating a space where talented, sexy, and confident women could take center stage and own their power through performance. “iGirl” is about stepping into an idealized version of yourself. Nani Wells doesn’t feel like that person all the time, but that is what makes the fantasy so powerful. Through music, she believes that you give yourself permission to become whoever you want to be. For Nani Wells, “iGirl” is an invitation to embody that version of yourself and be the It Girl!

Why I Swim With Sharks Inc. Wants Independent Artists to Stop Chasing Exposure Without a Plan

2026-10-22T00:05:38.183-05:00

Exposure might be one of the most frequently used words in independent music. Artists want more exposure, promoters promise exposure, and marketing companies advertise services designed to help musicians reach larger audiences. But while getting noticed is an important part of building a career, exposure alone doesn’t explain what happens after people discover the music.

That’s where I Swim With Sharks Inc. is attempting to shift the conversation. Through its Artist Readiness Platform, the company is encouraging musicians to examine whether their careers are prepared to benefit from increased visibility rather than assuming that attention automatically leads to growth.

Everybody Wants More Eyes on Their Music

The desire for exposure makes sense. Independent artists need people to discover their work, and opportunities can become difficult to access without an established audience.

However, attention can be temporary. A song might gain traction through social media, receive coverage from a popular music blog, or attract listeners through a promotional campaign without creating lasting engagement.

The challenge becomes determining what happens after that initial discovery. Does the artist have a recognizable identity? Are listeners becoming supporters? Is the artist building an audience they can continue reaching? Are the business systems behind the music organized enough to support additional opportunities?

These questions are often less visible than streaming numbers, but they can influence whether attention develops into something more meaningful.

The Platform Looks at What’s Behind the Promotion

I Swim With Sharks Inc. evaluates artists across five areas of readiness, including audience ownership, brand positioning, monetization, release preparation, and business infrastructure.

That approach recognizes that promotion is only one part of a larger career strategy. An artist may have excellent music and strong marketing materials while lacking the systems necessary to maintain audience relationships or understand the financial impact of promotional activity.

The assessment helps identify those gaps and provides recommendations intended to support further development.

Sometimes the Next Move Isn’t Another Campaign

Independent artists often feel pressure to remain constantly visible. Releasing more music, posting additional content, purchasing promotion, and pursuing media opportunities can become an ongoing cycle.

While consistent activity can be beneficial, activity without direction can also become expensive and exhausting. An artist who doesn’t understand their current audience or business infrastructure may struggle to determine which promotional opportunities are actually worth pursuing.

The Artist Readiness Platform encourages a more intentional approach by examining the artist’s current position before recommending additional development.

For some musicians, that may mean strengthening their branding or audience systems. For others, it may involve organizing rights information, improving release preparation, or developing a clearer understanding of monetization.

Building Something That Lasts Beyond the Moment

The music industry moves quickly, and attention can disappear almost as fast as it arrives. Independent artists who want to build lasting careers need to consider what exists beyond individual releases and promotional campaigns.

That doesn’t mean exposure should be avoided. It means artists should understand what they’re trying to accomplish with it and whether their businesses are prepared to support the results.

I Swim With Sharks Inc. is bringing that conversation into its artist-development approach through a platform designed to evaluate readiness before encouraging further growth.

For artists who have spent years chasing visibility, the bigger question may be whether they’re building something that can survive after the spotlight moves elsewhere.

Learn more at www.iswimwithsharksinc.com.

DORO (@DoroOfficial) - "Rock You 2 Death" (Video)

2026-10-20T19:58:02.757-05:00

Heavy metal was born in the early 1980's with a massive bang, and one blonde female star shone brighter than most. The name of that star: DORO PESCH! DORO has consistently and tirelessly dedicated herself to the cause of metal. In 2023 she celebrated her 40th anniversary on stage with two special, completely sold-out anniversary shows in Wacken and Düsseldorf, as well as with her studio album Conqueress – Forever Strong And Proud, which immediately entered the official German album charts at number five. Few artists understand the art of writing true hit songs like DORO does. A prime example is Warriors Of The Sea, the anthem of her Metal Queen Metal Cruise. The song instantly became an absolute fan favorite and was released at the end of 2025 as the title track of a special release on her own label Rare Diamonds Productions, including a strictly limited liquid-filled vinyl edition containing real Blue Curaçao liqueur. The album also entered the Top 10 straight away. DORO’s calling as a heavy metal heroine began in 1983 with the recording of Burning The Witches, the debut album by WARLOCK. Still a teenager at the time, DORO was instantly recognizable as a fully formed metal frontwoman thanks to her powerful voice and boundless charisma. Her major break-through came in August 1986, when WARLOCK played the Monsters Of Rock Festival at Castle Donington, the legendary open-air event that also featured icons such as Scorpions, Bon Jovi, Motörhead, Def Leppard and Ozzy Osbourne. DORO became the very first frontwoman ever to step onto the Monsters Of Rock stage. In that defining moment, she sealed her cult status and has since been revered as an undisputed icon – the Metal Queen! “We played Monsters Of Rock, and right after that everything really took off,” DORO recalls. “People started to give us a chance. That’s when we were allowed to tour with my heroes Judas Priest. I quit my job for that, and from then on everything felt like a dream. I moved to New York in 1987, where we recorded the album Triumph And Agony, which became a huge success worldwide. I still love that album very much. Playing those songs feels amazing – they’re on our setlist forever.” DORO continues: “Then we toured with Dio, whom I admired so much. That was followed by a big, long tour across the US with Megadeth. The videos were running on MTV / Headbanger’s Ball, and I really miss that today. Television was incredibly important back then. I even got the chance to host Headbanger’s Ball myself. I loved all of it. Those were absolute highlights of my life.” Like many great metal artists, DORO had to navigate the changing times of the 1990s, when grunge became the dominant sound of the decade and traditional metal went through a downturn. Once again, she proved her dedication to the music she loves and lives for, releasing albums that embraced newer, heavier styles without sacrificing the power and passion that had made her successful in the first place. From the 1990 self-titled album Doro, produced by KISS legend Gene Simmons, through True At Heart and Angels Never Die, Machine II Machine and Love Me In Black, she weathered the storm of that era with style and grace. When heavy metal surged back to prominence in the 21st century, DORO was more than ready to reclaim her throne. Armed with the true-metal statement Calling The Wild in 2000, featuring her first ever duet with Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead, she immediately ushered in a new era of glory. With tireless energy and an unmatched work ethic, DORO has spent the past 20 years releasing further anthem-driven albums such as Fight, Fear No Evil and Raise Your Fist, thrilling her ever-growing international fanbase. In 2022, DORO received the Lifetime Achievement Award – having previously been honored with an Echo, the Metal Goddess Legend Award in Las Vegas, the Legend Award in both England and Germany, the Angel Of Rock Award in England, and the title of “sexiest woman alive”, to name but a few. She was also voted best female vocalist in Spain for 30 consecutive years and inducted into the Hall Of Heavy Metal History in the United States. Throughout her long and successful career, DORO has played more than 3,500 concerts in over 60 countries and sold more than 10 million records worldwide. “When I started with Warlock, I thought we might last five years,” DORO says. “But I could always rely on the fans. The worldwide fanbase has always been my rock and my source of strength. I think that feeling is mutual. I love the fans with all my heart, and I feel they would do anything for me. Music is a wonderful way to maintain that connection, and the live shows keep getting better and better.” In 2018, DORO released Forever Warriors, Forever United, a colossal double-album extravaganza that loudly proclaimed the greatness of the Metal Queen through every speaker. Its successor Conqueress – Forever Strong And Proud, released in 2023, was a bold and powerful heavy metal album. And it has long been a cherished tradition that DORO is able to enlist legendary rock icons for her records. From Lemmy Kilmister and Pete Steele of Type O Negative to Johan Hegg of Amon Amarth, Slash of Guns N’ Roses and Sammy Amara of German arena rockers Broilers – all of them (and many more) have rocked on Doro albums. Metal God Rob Halford of Judas Priest also did DORO the personal honor of recording two duets with her: the immortal Judas Priest classic Living After Midnight and the Bonnie Tyler classic Total Eclipse Of The Heart. “My very first tour back in 1986 was with Judas Priest – a dream come true,” DORO recalls. “We’ve stayed in touch and remained close friends ever since. Rob is one of my all-time favorite vocalists and a great inspiration. So, this was yet another dream coming true.” DORO’s star continues to rise relentlessly. In 2024, the Mayor of her former hometown Düsseldorf honored the artist – who now lives primarily in the United States – with an entry into the city’s Golden Book at the Town Hall. In 2025, she received yet another lifetime achievement award, once again in Düsseldorf. Another highlight in 2025 was the official anthem of the Wacken Open Air, which DORO recorded with The Butcher Sisters – and of course performed live at the world’s biggest metal festival in August 2025 in front of 80,000 enthusiastic fans. The creativity of this exceptional artist continues to flow unabated. In 2024 and 2025, DORO developed two new and hugely successful show formats: the Winter Magic tour, on which DORO plays six selected German venues every December – all sold out – and the equally sold-out Metal Queen Metal Cruise, on which DORO takes her fans on a wild voyage along the Rhine River. Winter Magic and DORO’s Cruise – two highlights fans can once again look forward to in 2026. And for 2027, another very special occasion is already marked on the calendar: the 40th anniversary of the classic album Triumph And Agony!

Lil Mike Releases Captivating New Single “Talk Heavy” ft. T.G.I.FREE

2026-10-20T00:11:32.301-05:00

Michael Jones, who goes by the family given name Lil Mike is a Hip Hop Artist was born and raised in Anderson Indiana. Making his debut as an up and coming artist, the Indiana native quickly took a strong passion to music at the age of 11 or 12. He soon surfaced his unique and experimental sound with Hip Hop.

With influences like 50 Cent, Lil Wayne, Andre 3000, Tupac, Eminem, Notorious B.I.G. and Kendrick Lamar and more to follow, there’s no doubt that this fresh new artist is making a way for himself and is surely one to look out for.

As an authentic artist Lil Mike’s goal is to not just make music, but to make memorable messages. Writing with a competitive spirit and eagerness to inspire, Lil Mike’s lyricism and soothing messages in his records are sure to never go unnoticed when it comes to any audience, from inspirations to write from the streets/community he comes from along with being real with himself.

His latest release, “Talk Heavy” is a hip hop single featuring T.G.I.FREE, blending confident lyricism with authenticity and personal expression. The song reflects the importance of standing on your words, expressing yourself unapologetically, and letting your presence speak for itself.

With a focus on lyrical delivery and individuality, Lil Mike brings his perspective to the forefront while T.G.I.FREE adds another voice to the record. “Talk Heavy” represents the mindset of an artist determined to stay true to himself, make meaningful music, and leave a lasting impression.

Connect:

https://ffm.to/talk-heavy

https://linktr.ee/_lilmike

Strictly Kong Ent. Presents: Monsta Kodi (@MonstaKodi) f/ Jordan Lee - "No Retreat No Surrender" (Video)

2026-10-19T11:07:32.742-05:00

STRICTLY KONG ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS A COLLABORATION WITH A MESSAGE THAT HITS HARD: NEVER GIVE UP! Forget the excuses. Forget the setbacks. When the pressure rises, it's time to stand your ground. Monsta Kodi is turning up the intensity with “No Retreat No Surrender,” featuring Jordan Lee — a hard-hitting title with a message that refuses to be ignored. This isn't just about a catchy name. It's about the mentality of people who refuse to let life's challenges write their ending. Whether you're chasing a dream, rebuilding after a setback, or fighting to reach the next level, the message is simple: keep pushing. TWO ARTISTS. ONE UNCOMPROMISING MESSAGE. Presented by Strictly Kong Entertainment, “No Retreat No Surrender” puts resilience front and center. Monsta Kodi and Jordan Lee unite on a release whose title captures the determination it takes to keep moving when the road gets rough. The energy is built around a universal idea: your circumstances don't have to define your future, and your setbacks don't have to be your final chapter. THE OFFICIAL VIDEO IS CALLING! Ready to see what Monsta Kodi and Jordan Lee bring to the table?

Introducing Rising Artist: Boobie Blood

2026-10-16T16:17:57.096-05:00

For the people who don’t know who Boobie Blood is, how would you introduce yourself, and what should they know about you as an artist?

I’m primarily a freestyle artist who lets lyrics flow organically from the soul rather than scripting them, though i pivots to conscious themes when i sit down to write. My gritty, realistic music is heavily shaped by my real-life experiences in the streets and my time in prison.

Growing up in Minnesota, how did your environment and the people around you influence the person and artist you’ve become today?

It influenced me a lot, I learned to grind early in my life as a kid I use to hustle, so all the grind helped me understand how to get money for my work, and the fake people I grew up around and the real keeps me on my toes, so it made me smarter

Where did the name Boobie Blood come from, and what’s the story behind it?

Boobie is my nickname, blood is family, behind the name, when I became part of the family the word was spreading fast, to the streets so I embraced it, so people know what type of time I’m on

When did you first realize that music was something you wanted to pursue seriously?

When I was on my way home from doing 3 and a half years in prison.

What life experiences have shaped your music the most, and how do you turn those experiences into songs?

Experiencing Prison and fake friends and family fucked me up, so my music. Has truth grief. And passion in it & pain and more, so depending on the song I channel all dat in a hit the booth

How would you describe your sound, and what separates Boobie Blood from other artists coming out of Minnesota?

My music is defined by a raw, high-energy delivery balanced with a sharp, lyrical focus. Rather than following contemporary melodic trap trends, my sound relies on a foundation of classic, hard-hitting rap.

My artistic vision and sharp rhymes are heavily shaped by a fusion of iconic, powerhouse hip-hop influences. – jay z, Dipset, 2pac 50 Cent Nas

When you step into the studio, do you write your music beforehand, or do you prefer to create everything in the moment?

It depends on the the beat sometimes I write sometimes I don’t.

What’s one song you’ve released that means the most to you personally, and what’s the story behind it?

(On purpose) this song is a triumph of me being my self and going over my haters heads putting my achievements and success in there faces to hate on me more, alot of people gave up on me in this music so that song is me laughing in they faces

Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and what have you learned from studying their careers?

Drake, jay z, 50 cent, Snoop Dogg, These guys all stay in there on lane and do not try to fit in to everyones crowd, so sticking to what I know and what’s best for me is something I learned from them

Do you feel like your music represents the reality of life in Minnesota, and what do you want listeners to take away from your songs?

Yes my music represents life in Minnesota, Listeners can take a message of tenacity, resilience, and grinding through adversity from the hip-hop music I put out.

P.A.T. Louisiana’s Finest Impresses With New Hit Single “3 Jones”

2026-10-14T22:32:12.314-05:00

Opelousas, Louisiana artist P.A.T. Louisiana’s Finest is truly a refreshing artist for each and every listener to come across! Here we find a underdog quality that simply can’t be denied! Coming from a very rare place in the dirty South, P.A.T. sets himself apart by wanting to contribute to the essence of hip hop and the ability to create greatness at every stroke of his expertise which gives us records like “3 JONES” in a time where most artist try to rinse & repeat.

Here we get a complete Legend in the No Limit/Jet Life artist Fiend aka International Jones! P.A.T. says not only did he want to collab with the New Orleans native, but also set the tone that Louisiana has an Un-Matched sound when they stick together! This record is a good bowl of a home-cooked meal that will fill you up in spirit and truth.

Biblical in nature, the 3 Jones record gives a different level of pain, as well as a honest look at when you deny signs you see in a person you care about! Take a tru listen!

Monsta Kodi (@MonstaKodi) - "Too Live For TV" | Presented by Strictly Kong Ent.

2026-10-14T17:37:05.537-05:00

A Bronx-rooted sound. Unfiltered lyricism. A salute to the golden-era energy of New York rap. Presented by Strictly Kong Entertainment In a musical landscape constantly evolving with new sounds and trends, Monsta Kodi brings the focus back to the raw energy and lyrical intensity that helped define East Coast hip-hop with “Too Live For TV,” the official music video presented by Strictly Kong Entertainment. The track pays homage to the hard-hitting New York rap tradition, embracing an unapologetic approach built around commanding delivery, rugged production, and the spirit of authentic emceeing. Rather than chasing passing trends, the record celebrates a sound rooted in hip-hop's competitive lyrical culture. A salute to New York hip-hop Monsta Kodi's “Too Live For TV” draws inspiration from the aggressive, high-energy sound associated with the Ruff Ryders era and classic New York street rap. Its musical direction reflects a tradition where powerful beats, sharp bars, and an unmistakable East Coast identity take center stage. The record was also featured by The Hype Magazine in April 2018, which highlighted Kodi's Northeast Bronx roots and the track's connection to hardcore hip-hop. The coverage described a sound driven by lyrical intensity and traditional East Coast influences. Strictly Kong Entertainment brings the vision Behind the release is Strictly Kong Entertainment, presenting a project that celebrates the culture, attitude, and creative independence at the heart of hip-hop. “Too Live For TV” serves as a statement of artistic identity: a reminder that hip-hop has always made room for distinctive voices, regional sounds, and artists who stay committed to their own approach. For longtime fans of New York rap and listeners discovering Monsta Kodi for the first time, the official video offers an opportunity to experience the record and revisit the sound that continues to influence the culture.

From “Nae Nae” to “Naïve”: CallaMar Writes His Own Story

2026-10-14T11:50:03.359-05:00

CallaMar brings his performance roots with We Are Toonz into a solo identity of his own. For “Naïve,” the focus turns personal: attraction, confidence, and how easily wanting something can shape what we believe.

Arriving October 20, 2026, through Fresh Taste Group, “Naïve” invites listeners into a familiar feeling without explaining every detail. Come for CallaMar. See what feels familiar.

CallaMar Helped the World Dance. With “Naïve,” He’s Giving It a New Story.

The We Are Toonz artist enters his next independent chapter with Fresh Taste Group, pairing a legacy of performance with a creative vision built to keep audiences guessing.

Before a dance becomes a hashtag, somebody has to create it. Before an artist becomes a familiar name, somebody has to see the bigger picture.

CallaMar knows both sides of that story.

As a member of Atlanta’s We Are Toonz, he helped introduce the Nae Nae to the world. Now, with “Naïve” arriving October 20, 2026, through Fresh Taste Group, he’s bringing that experience into a solo chapter centered on storytelling, identity, and the freedom to develop his own vision.

The Structure Behind the Vision

Fresh Taste Group’s role is central to how this chapter is being presented.

Led by founder and executive producer Tahir “StayFresh” Ali, the independent production and management label supports “Naïve” through visual storytelling, coordinated release assets, and artist-and-label promotion, according to the release package.

That support gives the creative vision a practical structure. A concept needs production. A release needs a recognizable identity. An audience needs a clear path from discovering the artist to hearing the music.

The CallaMar–FTG relationship brings those pieces into the same conversation. Its value lies in helping an artist’s ideas reach the audience with consistency and intention, while keeping his personality at the center of the presentation.

Nothing clouds your judgment like somebody you want.

CallaMar — NAÏVE.
October 20.

Connect:

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/callamar1/navie

www.FreshTasteGroup.com

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/callamar/1518505862?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Lord Conrad Releases Captivating New Single "Rising Empire"

2026-10-14T01:08:44.493-05:00

Enter a world of 80s synthwave, distorted electric guitars, modern hip-hop, and trap, where retro neon aesthetics collide with luxury, ambition, and the streets of Vice City.

Rising Empire is a GTA 6-inspired musical experience by Lord Conrad, capturing the energy of Vice City, cinematic open-world gaming, neon nightlife, and the rise of a new generation.

From the neon streets of GTA6 to the real-world financial markets, the empire-building mindset goes beyond the game.

With the gaming industry evolving and the spotlight on the future of Grand Theft Auto VI, the market keeps its eyes on Take-Two Interactive (NASDAQ: TTWO), the company behind the Grand Theft Auto franchise, alongside the broader Nasdaq and the business of interactive entertainment.

Ambition. Innovation. Risk. The next big move.

Rising Empire — where gaming culture, financial ambition, and music collide.

THE RISING EMPIRE EXPERIENCE
GTA 6 / GTA VI Inspired
Vice City & Neon Nights
Luxury Cars & Midnight Drives
Champagne & Luxury Lifestyle
80s Synthwave & Distorted Guitars
Modern Hip-Hop, Trap & Heavy 808s

This is more than a vibe. It's a statement.

Lord Conrad is rising. The empire starts now.

Connect:
official website: https://www.lordconrad.com/

Strictly Kong Presents: Monsta Kodi (@Monstakodi) f/ A.King - "Wipe Your Tears" (Video)

2026-10-13T15:28:37.006-05:00

Strictly Kong Entertainment presents the official music video for “Wipe Your Tears” by Monsta Kodi featuring A.King, an Akademia Award-winning song dedicated to breast cancer victims and survivors, as well as families impacted by cancer. Blending music with a meaningful message of hope, strength, and compassion, “Wipe Your Tears” honors those facing cancer, celebrates survivors, and remembers loved ones whose lives have been touched by the disease. The release serves as a reminder that no one should have to face life's toughest battles alone. Through this heartfelt tribute, Monsta Kodi and A.King use music to encourage awareness, inspire resilience, and show support for families affected by cancer.

SyncLicensingPro.com Announces Streamlined Sync Licensing Solutions for Creators Amid Growing Demand for Pre‑Cleared Media Music

2026-10-13T13:41:05.232-05:00

SyncLicensingPro.com, a boutique music licensing and publishing agency that focuses on pre‑cleared tracks and custom‑scored soundtracks for TV, film, video games, advertising and emerging media, today unveiled enhanced workflow capabilities aimed at cutting music clearance timelines from the typical multi‑month process to just a few days—without sacrificing quality or legal compliance.

Addressing a common bottleneck for creators navigating complex rights landscapes, the company draws on its team’s extensive industry background (spanning major labels, studios and rights organizations) to deliver:

Instant access to a broad pre‑cleared library – a curated collection of professionally vetted tracks across genres and moods, available for immediate licensing under clear, royalty‑free terms for specified media uses.
Rapid custom composition – bespoke music crafted to project briefs and delivered on tight schedules, enabling time‑sensitive productions such as news segments, trailer releases or game updates to stay on track.
Full in‑house rights management – end‑to‑end sync and master clearance handled internally, removing the delays that often arise from coordinating with external publishers or label partners.

“Creative teams shouldn’t lose momentum waiting for music approvals,” said Debbie McGreen, Media Contact for SyncLicensingPro.com. “Our model removes friction by combining deep rights expertise with agile execution—whether an indie filmmaker needs a suspense cue for a festival deadline or a game studio requires adaptive soundtracks for live‑service updates. We ensure creators get legally sound, high‑impact music when they need it, backed by transparent licensing terms.”

SyncLicensingPro.com serves independent artists seeking fair sync opportunities, production houses managing multi‑platform campaigns, and ad agencies requiring rapid‑turnaround solutions. The platform proudly features WayneDreadski, an artist with over 70 placements, as part of its roster of talent.

About SyncLicensingPro.com

Based in Atlanta, GA, SyncLicensingPro.com is dedicated to simplifying the sync process for media creators. The company blends a curated pre‑cleared catalog with custom composition services, prioritizing speed, legal certainty and equitable artist compensation. Its team consists of veteran music supervisors, licensing attorneys and A&R professionals committed to helping creators source the right music, quickly and confidently.

Explore Solutions: https://www.synclicensingpro.com/

Media Contact:
Debbie McGreen
SyncLicensingPro.com
712 West Peachtree Street SE, Suite 1200
Atlanta, GA 30308
nysexytalentscout@gmail.com

Polo Baybee (@_PoloBaybee) - "Toot It Up" (Video)

2026-10-12T16:53:01.062-05:00

Jackson, Mississippi artist Polo Baybee is bringing the party to the forefront with the release of the official music video for his single “Toot It Up,” featured on his Super Turnt Vol. 4 mixtape, available now on Apple Music. Built around twerking, fun, and high-energy club vibes, “Toot It Up” delivers the kind of sound made for the dance floor. Polo Baybee taps into the excitement of the party scene with an upbeat record designed to get the crowd moving, turn the energy up, and keep the vibes going from start to finish. The official music video brings that energy to life, putting the focus on dancing, movement, and having a good time. With a sound made for the clubs, parties, and social gatherings, Polo Baybee gives fans a visual experience that matches the lively spirit of “Toot It Up.” With the release of the video, Polo Baybee continues to showcase his versatility as an artist, embracing a fun, feel-good sound that celebrates the culture of partying and dance. Representing Jackson, Mississippi, he is bringing his own personality and energy to a record made for people who love to turn up and enjoy themselves. “ Toot It Up” appears on Super Turnt Vol. 4, which is available now on Apple Music. Fans can stream the mixtape and check out the official music video as Polo Baybee continues to build momentum with his latest release. The party is on. Polo Baybee’s “Toot It Up” official music video is out now!

Will Francis (@walkingdown12) - "Got This Chill" (Video)

2026-10-12T12:11:54.568-05:00

Will Francis is a music artist from North Carolina USA. He does original folk, blues, singer/songwriter and Americana music. Currently, he is releasing singles, building a catalog and rehearsing a live set that includes original and some cover material. His music has been receiving regular rotation on radio and social media. Furthermore, he's been getting feedback and critique from curators, influencers, labels and sync supervisors for promotion and placements. Will's music has been featured on radio, blogs, playlists and TV. His music is available worldwide. Will tries to focus on quality and creativity His music is real, straight up, loud, smooth, energetic and composed. At some point, Will began to evolve as a composer with emphasis on lyric writing and song structure. This was the beginning of his journey or process of becoming a songwriter and finding his true voice. He discovered that the craft of songwriting, producing and engineering is ongoing. Furthermore, he believes that music has a way of re-inventing itself. Will Francis has been writing and performing music for about 11 years in North Carolina. His musical influences are quite eclectic from the world of rock, to folk, country and Americana music. ABOUT "GOT THIS CHILL": An Americana song about a man that wakes up from a dream about being with his ex-girlfriend again. The dream was so real that he didn't know where he was for a minute when he woke up. He had this chill in his bone from being in a cold sweat. He felt like a skeleton that was left out in the cold. His frozen limbs took a couple minutes to thaw out from the freeze and chilling vapor of loneliness. This song is very string instrumental and features background gospel singers. Very roots, Americana and authentic in its delivery... Currently "Got This Chill" is connecting - receiving radio airplay, playlisting success, and press coverage from multiple curators and other music critics...people are resonating.

Mississippi Rapper RashadSoFly Makes Noise With Viral Single “Where You From,” Putting the Magnolia State in the Spotlight

2026-10-12T00:05:36.167-05:00

ATLANTA, GA — Mississippi-born rapper RashadSoFly is bringing attention to the Magnolia State with his latest single, “Where You From,” a record that is gaining traction across social media and inspiring listeners to represent the cities, hometowns, and communities that made them who they are.

What started as a song rooted in personal experience has grown into a movement of Mississippi pride. As clips of “Where You From” circulate across TikTok and Instagram, people from across the state are joining the wave, creating videos, repping their hometowns, and helping push Mississippi culture into a bigger spotlight.

For RashadSoFly, the record is about more than making a catchy song. It is about identity, upbringing, and the experiences that shape a person long before the world knows their name.

Growing up in Mississippi, RashadSoFly experienced firsthand how much your environment can influence your journey. In sharing the story behind the record, the rapper has opened up about walking to school with his mother and moving between places during his childhood, experiences that sometimes made him feel different from the other kids. Those memories helped shape the perspective behind the song, giving “Where You From” a personal meaning that listeners can connect with.

Now based in Atlanta, RashadSoFly continues to represent his Mississippi roots while building his career as an independent artist. Rather than focusing solely on himself, he is using the momentum behind the single to bring attention to the people and places that helped shape him.

The response has extended beyond individual posts, with Mississippi women, creators, and supporters joining the trend and helping spread the record online. The growing participation reflects the song’s central message: where you come from is part of your story, and there is pride in representing it.

RashadSoFly is also using the moment to encourage unity across Mississippi. With the state’s different regions, cities, and area codes—including 601, 662, 228, and 769—“Where You From” creates an opportunity for people to celebrate their hometowns while coming together behind a common cause.

As an independent artist, RashadSoFly is building on the momentum through consistent social media content, music promotion, and efforts to connect with new audiences. His approach reflects a larger goal of creating opportunities without waiting for a major label to put his name on the map.

With “Where You From,” RashadSoFly is making one thing clear: representing Mississippi is bigger than one artist. It is about the culture, the people, the stories, and the hometowns that deserve recognition.

Mississippi is getting its moment—and RashadSoFly wants the world to know exactly where he comes from.

Listen to “Where You From” by RashadSoFly and join the movement.

Follow: @onesofly
Hashtags: #RashadSoFly #WhereYouFrom #MississippiBaby #MississippiMusic #MississippiRap

M-Dot (@MDotBoston) & Co-Defendants f/ Big Twins (Infamous Mobb) (@BIGTWINSQB) - "Out Of Paris" (Video)

2026-10-11T13:59:33.608-05:00

M-Dot and Co-Defendants (Benefit & IAmProfit) return with visuals for their single “Out Of Paris,” featuring legendary Infamous Mobb member Big Twins. The video shot by PWeezy Visuals in the Paris Las Vegas area, sets up the perfect backdrop for the aptly titled street anthem. In addition to handling microphone duties alongside Benefit, Profit and Big Twins, M-Dot also takes the reins behind the boards, crafting a haunting and hard-hitting soundscape that pays homage to the golden era while remaining firmly rooted in the present. The track is taken from their critically acclaimed "Sky Reign" EP and will also be featured on the Co-Defendants upcoming project "Co-D's 4 Eva" (Coming Soon - Date TBA)

Rick Ross Returns With New Hit Single “Loaded” ft. Kemar McGregor

2026-10-10T00:59:03.221-05:00

Blending island riddims with cinematic rap swagger, this track delivers a glossed-up anthem centered on royalty, luxury, and global influence. This is a collaboration with Jamaican-American producer Kemar McGregor, known as “The Billboard King” for his chart-topping reggae records, and his touch is all over the song’s island bounce. Warm basslines and staccato synth hits set a breezy backdrop for unapologetic flexes of million-dollar rings and fast cars. Beneath the jet-setting bravado, however, is a classic rags-to-riches story, contrasting early days eating bully beef with the undisputed reign of being self-made.

Hip-Hop Icon • Serial Entrepreneur • Cultural Icon

Rick Ross—born William Leonard Roberts II—is far more than a music legend. He’s a Grammy nominated rapper, empire builder, luxury tastemaker, community leader, and cultural powerhouse whose vision has helped shape hip-hop’s evolution over the last two decades. From his deep baritone to his commanding presence in music and business, Ross has become one of the most influential multi-hyphenates of his generation.

Ross exploded onto the scene in 2006 with his breakout hit “Hustlin’”, which went platinum before he even had a major record deal. He followed with a string of critically acclaimed albums including Port of Miami, Trilla, Deeper Than Rap, Teflon Don, God Forgives, I Don’t, and

Richer Than I Ever Been. His catalog is both sonically lush and lyrically vivid, built on themes of power, perseverance, and wealth.

Over the span of his career, Rick Ross has earned ten Grammy nominations, collaborated with the biggest names in music—Jay-Z, DJ Khaled, John Legend, The Weekend, French Montana, Lil Wayne, Nas, and many others—and has consistently landed at the top of Billboard charts, cementing his status as one of rap’s true heavyweights. As the founder of Maybach Music Group (MMG), Ross helped usher in a new generation of stars including Meek Mill, Wale, and Omarion, proving his eye for talent and executive prowess.

Off the mic, Ross is a mogul in every sense of the word. His portfolio includes:

• Luc Belaire: Ross is a longtime brand partner and equity ambassador for this ultra-premium French sparkling wine, aligning the brand with luxury and hip-hop culture.

• Slippery Soap: In 2024, Ross launched this high-performance automotive cleaning line, now available in over 400 AutoZone stores across the U.S., making a major play in the billion-dollar auto care industry. This partnership was a full-circle moment for Ross in his ethos. At 13, he began working at a local car wash in his hometown, where he honed his skills and nurtured his love for automobiles. Gaining an appreciation for the intricacies of vehicle maintenance and detailing, he began to immerse himself into the world of cars. Learning about different models, makes, and the art of keeping them pristine. This hands-on experience not only shaped his work ethic, but also fuels his ambition for success in the automotive industry. In essence, Ross’s journey from working at a car wash in Miami to partnering with Slippery Soap underscores his unwavering dedication to his passions and his relentless drive to succeed. His love for cars remains a central aspect of his ethos, serving as both a source of inspiration and a testament to his journey from humble beginning to entrepreneurial triumph.

• Wingstop & Checkers Franchises: Ross owns multiple locations across the country, bringing jobs and economic development to underserved communities while scaling profitable business ventures.

• Smiles by Mario Montoya: In 2025, Ross entered the healthcare space, partnering with celebrity dentist Dr. Mario Montoya to open a luxury dental practice in Sandy Springs, GA, offering cosmetic and general dentistry services to high-end clients.

• The Rick Ross Car & Bike Show: What started as a personal passion project has become one of the most anticipated annual automotive and lifestyle events in the country. Held at his sprawling 235-acre estate in Fayetteville, GA, known as The Promise Land, the show draws

thousands of car enthusiasts and hip-hop fans. Now in its 4th year, the show has secured major sponsors including Harley-Davidson, Rockford Fosgate, Monster Energy, and more, further establishing Ross as a lifestyle curator.

• Other ventures include Rap Snacks, High Tolerance, and Rick Ross Boss Up Conference. Ross has also made a name for himself in film and television. He’s appeared in popular shows such as Coming 2 America, DAVE, The Vince Staples Show, and Magic City, and has multiple

projects in development as a producer and actor.

In 2019, he released his memoir, Hurricanes, which became a New York Times bestseller. The book offers an unfiltered look at his journey from Carol City to the top of the rap and business world, earning critical acclaim for its honesty and inspiration. In 2021 Ross returned to the New York Times bestseller list, penning the inspirational The Perfect Day to Boss Up: A Hustler’s Guide to Building Your Empire. Ross’s influence is not only felt through music and business—it’s recognized by the community.

In 2022, the City of Miami honored him with the Key to the City and named multiple streets in his honor based around his lyrics, with his hometown celebrating his role as a cultural ambassador and entrepreneur who’s given back to his roots. From platinum records to real estate holdings, from food franchises to premium brand partnerships, Rick Ross has built a sprawling empire rooted in hustle, excellence, and vision. He is not only a hip-hop icon but also a blueprint for modern Black entrepreneurship. Whether he’s on stage, in the boardroom, or hosting tens of thousands at his estate for his car show, Rick Ross continues to expand his legacy—bold, unfiltered, and unforgettable.

Connect:

About Kemar McGregor:

Kemar McGregor “The Billboard King” is an acclaimed Jamaican-American music producer, songwriter, and CEO of FM Records. Renowned as a pioneer of the modern pop-reggae movement, McGregor has spent over two decades producing hit records and multi-platinum tracks that seamlessly blend traditional roots reggae and dancehall with mainstream pop, R&B, and hip-hop. His extensive production portfolio features collaborations with some of the industry’s biggest global icons, including Snoop Dogg, Sinéad O’Connor, Musiq Soulchild, Rick Ross, and Gyptian. Boasting multiple number-one albums on the Billboard Reggae charts, consecutive JUNO Award nominations, and millions of records sold worldwide, McGregor remains one of the most influential and chart-dominant forces in contemporary reggae music.

Connect:

INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK

Unc Doe (@UncDoe_) – "Pick Up What I’m Droppin'"

2026-10-08T12:41:19.200-05:00

Hailing from Youngstown, OH, independent hip-hop artist/producer Unc Doe returns with his latest single, “Pick Up What I’m Droppin’,” a hard-hitting new track produced by Unc Doe himself. Built around sharp lyricism, confident delivery and that raw DIY independent spirit, “Pick Up What I’m Droppin’” finds Unc Doe putting his skills front and center and challenging listeners to catch every bar. The self-produced track showcases Doe’s ability to handle both the microphone and the boards while delivering another dose of authentic hip-hop. “Pick Up What I’m Droppin’” is available now on all major streaming platforms.

Wadena “Denagirl” Hits #38 On iTunes R&B/Soul With “Smoke-n-Chill” As “Wadena vs. Wadena: Back Outside” Builds Major Post-Release Momentum

2026-10-07T18:38:01.572-05:00

“SMOKE-N-CHILL” CLIMBS TO #38 ON iTUNES R&B/SOUL FOLLOWING THE EP RELEASE, WHILE WADENA’S UNRELEASED “GLAD I’M OVER YOU” FEATURING TURNER WITH HOOD LOVE CONTINUES ITS IMPRESSIVE RUN ON THE UPCOMING 100 MUSIC CHARTS

LONG ISLAND, NY — October 2026 — Independent recording artist, songwriter, and vocalist Wadena “Denagirl” is celebrating a powerful new chapter following the release of her latest project, Wadena vs. Wadena: Back Outside, released August 28, 2026.

The post-release momentum is already making noise. Following the release of the EP, Wadena’s “Smoke-N-Chill” climbed to #38 on the iTunes R&B/Soul chart, adding another major milestone to the record’s growing story.

At the same time, Wadena continues to make an impact on the Upcoming 100 Music Charts with “Glad I’m Over You,” an unreleased track featuring Turner with Hood Love. The record has spent 56 weeks on the Upcoming 100 Music Charts, reaching as high as #7 and currently sitting around #32.

The EP itself has surpassed 24,000 Spotify streams, while Wadena’s catalog continues to gain traction with listeners discovering the versatility, energy, and story behind her music.

One of the project’s standout records, “Smoke-N-Chill,” a Wadena collaboration with her sister LT and Grammy Award-winning, legendary hip-hop producer Zaytoven, has surpassed 150,000 streams across multiple platforms and continues to build momentum.

“Smoke-N-Chill” has also remained on the Upcoming 100 Music Charts for more than 52 weeks, reaching as high as #3, further demonstrating the record’s staying power.

Another major collaboration, “Bum Busta,” produced by Grammy Award-winning, legendary hip-hop producer Zaytoven, continues to build momentum as well. Originally released February 14, 2026, the record has surpassed 100,000 streams across multiple platforms and has now passed 19,000 Spotify streams following the EP release.

Wadena’s catalog continues to demonstrate that her music cannot be placed into one box. Moving between Hip-Hop, R&B, Pop, Melodic Rap, and Club Music, she continues to show a willingness to experiment while maintaining her own recognizable sound and personality.

A COMEBACK BUILT THROUGH ADVERSITY

Behind the numbers is a story that goes far beyond music.

Wadena’s return to recording followed a traumatic brain injury that forced her to fight to regain portions of her long-term and short-term memory, as well as the ability to fully express herself through speech, movement, music, and performance.

Her return to the professional recording environment became a personal milestone.

Traveling from New York to Atlanta, Wadena stepped back into the studio and began creating again — including working with Zaytoven and his team. What she did not initially realize was just how significant that moment would become.

Then came even more personal challenges.

Wadena experienced the loss of her father on Mother’s Day, while her elderly mother has also faced serious medical emergencies and hospitalizations. At the very moment Wadena was attempting to maximize the promotional campaign surrounding her EP, family circumstances required her attention.

Yet the music continued to move.

Fans continued to stream.

Media continued to show love.

And the industry continued to take notice.

WHEN THE MUSIC SPEAKS LOUDER

Wadena says the response has reminded her why she never stopped writing and creating.

She has also described facing what she believes were inappropriate law-enforcement inquiries surrounding her music and travel, including scrutiny of the lyrics to “Smoke-N-Chill.” Wadena maintains that the song is music and creative expression, not an endorsement of drug activity, and says the experience only strengthened her determination to continue creating.

Rather than allowing adversity to define the story, Wadena is choosing to let the music define what comes next.

A MESSAGE TO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY

Following the release of Wadena vs. Wadena: Back Outside, Wadena says she has received attention and outreach from major-label representatives, A&Rs, artists, celebrities, producers, and industry teams.

She wants to thank everyone who has reached out, listened, shared her music, offered guidance, or expressed interest in working together.

And her message is simple:

The door is open.

Wadena is looking for serious creative relationships, strategic marketing opportunities, playlist support, media opportunities, additional production, collaborations, and the right industry partnerships to help take her music to an even larger audience.

«“This isn’t about beef. It’s about love. Love conquers more than hate ever will. I want to continue creating, writing, singing, recording, and giving people music.”»

Wadena says she has always been writing and singing with the future in mind — and she believes she has an entire catalog waiting to be heard.

She describes herself as being “hungry like a little kid in elementary school” when it comes to sharing her music, connecting with audiences, getting back into the studio, and creating the next chapter of her career.

She also hopes to return to the studio with Zaytoven and continue building on the creative chemistry that helped fuel this latest chapter.

THE STORY ISN’T OVER — IT’S JUST BEGINNING

For Wadena, Wadena vs. Wadena: Back Outside represents much more than an EP.

It represents survival.

Creativity.

Resilience.

Growth.

And the decision to keep going.

With more than 24,000 Spotify streams for the EP, more than 150,000 streams for “Smoke-N-Chill,” a #38 iTunes R&B/Soul chart placement for “Smoke-N-Chill” following the EP release, and continued Upcoming 100 Music Chart momentum for “Glad I’m Over You” featuring Turner with Hood Love, Wadena believes this is only the beginning.

“Wadena vs. Wadena: Back Outside” is not the end of the comeback. It’s the beginning of what’s next.

PLAY WADENA’S MUSIC

Wadena invites fans, DJs, media, playlist curators, artists, producers, A&Rs, labels, and music professionals to continue supporting the movement.

Stream the EP. Share the music. Add the songs to your playlists. Tell somebody about Wadena.

And most importantly:

#PlayWadenasMusic

Wadena “Denagirl”
Artist | Songwriter | Vocalist
For Media, Booking, Interviews, Collaborations & Industry Inquiries:

Bang Hitz Entertainment

phone: (516) 462-6421

email: Banghitzpublishing@gmail.com

Connect:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denagirl1

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/186Y3dYSjA

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@wadenanow?si=YrizuFR78Z1b8CIs

Website: www.wadenanow.com

Massiah Kaine – "Ground 0 Freestyle" (Video)

2026-10-05T22:47:36.536-05:00

Western, MA emcee Massiah Kaine returns with visuals for his “Ground 0 (Freestyle),” a raw and deeply personal new single produced by Farrari Beats, accompanied by a powerful music video directed by Designer Films. Stripped down to its foundation, the track finds Kaine confronting the pain, fear, family trauma and personal choices that have shaped his journey—while taking full responsibility for the role he has played along the way. Written in blood, faith and tears, “Ground Zero” is not about returning to who Massiah Kaine once was. Instead, it represents the destruction of what no longer serves him and the determination to rebuild something stronger from the ground up. The accompanying visual from Designer Films brings that internal struggle to life, reinforcing the song's themes of reflection, accountability, destruction, and rebirth. “Ground 0” serves as both a reckoning with the past and a statement of purpose for what lies ahead. This is where the past ends—and the foundation for his upcoming project "Midnight Mass" (Date TBD) begins. Check out the video now on YouTube and the single on all platforms!

Goldie Gabbana Drops Highly Anticipated Single “In & Out”

2026-10-05T12:20:10.863-05:00

Goldie Gabbana AKA Geezo drops his highly anticipated single “In & Out”. The Jersey native hailing from Burlington County takes you and an immersive speaker knocking track that will have you pressing the replay button for sure! This track like many to come was completely produced & arranged by Goldie.

This is the first single from an EP that has been in the work for 2+ years. Coming off his last project “The Difference Is Super”. This single is a continuation of Geezo’s hard work and dedication to his craft.

Goldie explained to us his life hasn’t been smooth sailing the last couple of years. He was dealing with legal troubles, online battles, and even facing homelessness while making this project.

Staying locked in wasn’t easy, but making it out the storm has given him a new found purpose in life and this is phase 1 of the transformation.

In the following months, you can expect new music videos, reels, and merch dropping late December.

Connect:

https://www.instagram.com/goldiegabbana

Star2 Drops New Concept Album 20-Something (In Love) ft. Young Henny Chinatown Runner, Ler Mu Dex, Lil BK & Seko

2026-10-04T00:04:57.889-05:00

Following a massive 500K-video TikTok viral wave for “M.O.B.” and 1.2M YouTube views for “Never Again,” the San Diego-based Asian American hip hop trailblazer returns with his most personal and collaborative project yet

Asian American rapper and S2MG Records founder Star2 is back with his new album 20-Something (In Love). Anchored by the success of his viral hit “M.O.B.” and the melancholic visualizer for “Never Again,” which rocketed past 1.2 million views on YouTube, his new project is a definitive sonic statement on modern romance, vulnerability, and resilience.The album boasts an impressive lineup of genre-fluid collaborators, including long-time creative partner Young Henny, chinatown runner, Ler Mu Dex, Lil BK, and Seko. Together, this ensemble creates a rich sonic landscape that captures the chaotic emotional highs and lows of navigating love and ambitions in your twenties.“This album is for everyone trying to figure it out,” says Star2. “We brought together a family of artists to tell stories about late-night longing, heartbreak, and moving forward. It’s the most collaborative and honest work I’ve ever put out.”

Born in a Thai refugee camp before migrating to San Diego, Star2 has systematically built a loyal global following. 20-Something (In Love) marks a significant evolution in his artistry, seamlessly blending raw, melodic trap with West Coast R&B sensibilities.With a deep baseline catalog now featuring 5 albums, 4 EPs, and critical acclaim from hip hop tastemakers, Star2 continues to break boundaries for Asian American representation in mainstream music.

About Star2:

Star2 began his life in a Thai refugee camp where he was forced to flee genocide from the Burmese army in Myanmar who burned his village to the ground. A lottery in the camp brought him to San Diego with his grandmother and her four children, where he began a new life. Under the mentorship of esteemed producer Chico Bennett, his collaborations with acclaimed rappers include Soulja Boy, $tupid Young, Mozzy, MBNel, Luh Kel, Lil Poppa, HoodTrophy Bino, YSN Flow, and MarMar Oso to name a few. While not on tour, he documents his journey in the popular ‘Adventures of Star2’ series on YouTube. As an influential figure in Asian-American music, Star2 entwines heartfelt stories with captivating visuals, chronicling a tale of resilience and ascent. Esteemed platforms like Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam, GQ, HotNewHipHop, Ones to Watch, BET, and Lyrical Lemonade, among others, have celebrated his contributions.

Connect:

TIKTOK

YOUTUBE

INSTAGRAM

About Young Henny:

Young Henny was born Mookpolosoe in the Nu Po refugee camp on the Thai-Burma border. His Karen family had fled the Burmese military, hiding in the jungle until they reached the camp. In 2008, at nine years old, he landed in Akron, Ohio, in the middle of winter, seeing snow and a city for the first time. He grew up on the city’s North Side, where he taught himself English by watching PBS Kids before school and dealt with bullying and hate that hit close to home. A local church gave him a way forward. He picked up guitar and drums there and was leading worship by 14. After losing his father, he moved to Denver to chase music. There he met Star2, Ler Mu Dex and Chinatown Runner, and Star2 later flew him to San Diego to start work on the new album 20-Something (In Love). Now a husband and father living in Minnesota, Henny puts all of it into his music: the struggle, the faith, and the love that got him through. His message is simple. No matter how many times you hit rock bottom, pick yourself up and keep going.

Connect:

INSTAGRAM

YOUTUBE

Sufia Giza Carries the Dub-Poetry Tradition Forward on New Roots Reggae Album “Echoes of Freedom”

2026-10-02T22:02:34.501-05:00

Produced by Jah-Eye and featuring veteran reggae musicians Carlton “Santa” Davis and Lesterfari Simbarashe, the nine-track set begins its rollout on Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

Indigenous author, historical researcher and dub-poetess Sufia Giza launches the rollout for her forthcoming nine-track roots reggae album, Echoes of Freedom, with the October 12 premiere of her “Quantum Nonsense” video trailer in observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day.

CHARLESTON, S.C. — Indigenous author, historical researcher and dub-poetess Sufia Giza first entered the media spotlight with her 2018 book, Moundbuilders of Ancient America: A Legacy Reclaimed, which explored her ancestral roots and the legacy of ancient mound-building cultures. Now, Giza will mark Indigenous Peoples’ Day with the October 12 premiere of her “Quantum Nonsense” video trailer. The premiere launches a multi-stage rollout for her forthcoming nine-track roots reggae album, Echoes of Freedom. Through poetry and music, the project extends her historical and cultural work while creating space for intergenerational conversations about identity, remembrance, resistance and healing.

The video trailer draws from the album track ‘Quantum Nonsense,’ which examines the complex history of Black people in Indian Country and invites a deeper conversation about the intersections of Indigenous and African American history.

Following the trailer premiere, Giza will pre-release one album track, the ethereal “I Went to Church Today,” on November 2, the Day of the Dead. Written while she was grieving her mother’s death, the song opens the campaign on a day associated with remembrance and honoring those who have passed. The complete digital album is scheduled for release December 31, 2026, on Unity Works Music, coinciding with Kuumba, the Kwanzaa principle of creativity. CDs will follow in 2027, with a vinyl edition also under consideration.

“Echoes of Freedom is my way of bringing the voices of the past into the conversations we are having right now. Releasing the ‘Quantum Nonsense’ trailer on Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a way of honoring Indigenous history while setting the tone for an album rooted in reverence and restoration,” said Giza.

Of Muskogee Creek and Gullah-Geechee heritage, Giza lives between Charleston, South Carolina, and Tobago, Trinidad’s sister island. Her work as a spoken word artist follows the dub-poetry tradition of artists who place politically and culturally conscious verse over music, including Linton Kwesi Johnson, Nikki Giovanni, the Watts Prophets, the Last Poets and Mutabaruka. With Echoes of Freedom, she pairs positive, reflective lyrics with a mellow roots reggae foundation, using song as a bridge between lived memory and contemporary questions.

The album is produced by Jah-Eye and features veteran musicians including drummer Carlton “Santa” Davis of Soul Syndicate, whose credits include work with Peter Tosh and Ziggy Marley, and guitarist Lesterfari Simbarashe of King’s Music. Their instrumentation supports Giza’s measured vocal delivery across a collection recorded over a period of years.

Echoes of Freedom includes work that has already reached audiences through film and publishing. “Cape Fear Massacre” appeared on the soundtrack to Christopher Everett’s award-winning 2015 documentary Wilmington on Fire, while “Softly Walking” was published in the 2016 Routledge anthology Emergent Possibilities for Global Sustainability: Intersections of Race, Class and Gender.

Other selections explore grief, consciousness, perseverance and self-worth. Alongside “I Went to Church Today,” the album includes “Indigo Moods” and the inspirational “Keep It Movin’.” “Reflection of Love” examines low self-esteem, while “Quantum Nonsense,” the visual entry point for the campaign, considers the history of anti-Blackness in Indian Country.

“Dub poetry allows me to place history inside rhythm, where it can be felt as well as heard. I want this music to open conversations between generations and encourage people to look more deeply at the stories that have shaped us,” Giza added.

The “Quantum Nonsense” trailer combines desert drone footage with photography edited by Giza. It premieres October 12, 2026, in observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day and can be viewed at https://youtu.be/ov9IyUT7L6g.

Additional music and album details will be announced at https://sufiagiza.com.

About Sufia Giza

Sufia Giza is an Indigenous Muskogee Creek and Gullah-Geechee spoken word artist, dub-poetess, author and documentary filmmaker whose work explores history, culture, identity and the African diaspora. She is the author of the 2018 book Moundbuilders of Ancient America: A Legacy Reclaimed, which documents her decades-long exploration of her family’s Indigenous ancestry and the ancient mound-building cultures of the Americas.

A native of Riverside, California, with roots in South Carolina and the Caribbean, she holds three degrees, including a master’s degree in bilingual and cross-cultural educational counseling. Her creative catalog also includes two poetry chapbooks and five documentaries, among them REGGAE MILITIS The Bizness of Reggae Music and ethnobotanical films examining medicinal plant traditions across the African diaspora. Echoes of Freedom is her second release on Unity Works Music.

Visit https://sufiagiza.com.

Brent Hample - "Rotting Bounty" (Video)

2026-09-30T11:55:15.414-05:00

Brent Hample is an acoustic singer-songwriter whose music grows from faith, human experience, and a belief in every person's dignity. Born and raised among the tall firs of Oregon, Brent's musical journey began at home with his father and older sister singing and playing guitar. By the age of four, he was strumming the old acoustic guitars that filled his childhood home. He found his early voice singing hymns in church, Sunday school, outdoor camp, and in public-school choirs. In his rebellious teenage years, he was gifted an electric guitar and explored heavy rock like KISS and RUSH with his brother and friends. Throughout high school and college he took up the trumpet and dove into the worlds of jazz greats such as Lee Morgan and Miles Davis playing in big bands and improv combos, as well as the classical greats like Mozart and Brahms while playing in symphonies and pep/marching bands. Before working as a college camp counselor one summer, he bought a $100 used Yamaha acoustic guitar - which remains one of his favorites to this day. Also in college, he began writing his first songs. More recently, he developed a deep love for traditional Irish music, as well as contemporary Celtic groups like Flook, Väsen, and Lúnasa. Over the years, Brent continued to write songs and brought his music to audiences from California to Minnesota, and as far away as India. His song writing has picked up the last few years, as he discovered the power of communal inspiration and workshops at the Sisters Americana Song Academy. Brent writes when inspiration calls, listening closely for what the song wants to become. His work reaches toward something beyond himself, drawing from the shared stories and yearnings that bind people together, connection, laughter, and gratitude. Brent has played guitar and sang for college band Habakkuk 3:19b, the silly Holden Village based Lentil Monsters of Rock, the wedding band Rough Draft, and the trad Celtic band Faroe Rum. Today, he channels his passion for classic roots folk-rock music as a member of the band Sassafras! For Brent, music is more than just a craft—it’s a lifelong passion of the soul and a bridge that connects cultures and people, all while seeking to generate an atmosphere of joy. ABOUT “ROTTING BOUNTY”: "Rotting Bounty" is a haunting, heartfelt folk-rock ballad by Brent Hample that weaves religious imagery with modern political grief. Anchored by acoustic guitar, fiddle, upright bass, and rich vocal harmonies, the song speaks to the labor of undocumented workers, the pain of family separation, and the withering promise of abundance in America’s farmland. Poignant and reflective, it echoes both protest songs of the past and the urgency of now. This video was shot almost exclusively on Brent’s iPhone at locations such as his backyard and on his hikes to some of the beautiful waterfalls that can be found throughout his lush home state of Oregon.