Artist Archives - Page 13 of 26 - Straight Official Magazine

The Watchlist: Conversation With a Vision | CarlaG

on February 8, 2023 Artist Interviews add comment

Welcome to the Watchlist: Conversation With a Vision where Straight Official’s own DJ Gea chops it up with a purpose. CarlaG is a talented, energetic artist from the chi, that’s setting the tone for 2023.

Q&A WITH CarlaG

Dj Gea: Let our readers know where you’re from and how the city you lived in motivate and push you?

CarlaG: Iam from the south side of Chicago, wild hundreds to be exact. The south side of Chicago is considered to have the highest concentration of black people living in poverty in one area. That alone keeps me motivated because I want different. I want to be the one to make it and give those same people hope that they can do the same.

How did you get started in music? what was it about music that caught your attention?

My mom and my dad use to rap in the underground music scene in Chicago in the late 90’s/ early 2000’s so I’ve always been around music. The one thing that caught my attention with music is being able to express myself. I found music to be my outlet.

Where did the name CarlaG come from?

CarlaG is my nickname that a childhood friend gave me and it kind of just stuck.

I can be whichever part of me I want to be on songs.
CarlaG

SHIFTING GEARS

How long have you been doing music? What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?

I’ve been taking music seriously for about 3 1/2 years. My biggest accomplishment so far would have to be performing at “Smurkchella” and opening up for Lil Durk.

What do you bring to the game that no other artist is bringing?

For me originality has always been super important. I feel like it’s easy to get caught up in everybody’s sound to be liked by fans. My originality and energy stands out the most!

How do you plan to set the tone in 2023?

In 2023 I plan to set the tone by staying consistent by showing my fan base how versatile I can be.

MUSIC IN CarlaG’s WORDS

What is your style of music?

My style of music is like a modern day Chicago Foxy Brown/Lil Kim.

What’s your process to writing a song?

When I’m writing a song 9 times out of 10 I’m in my car. I always have the instrumental on repeat blasting and I just start freestyling. Once I come up with a hook I just go from there.

How do you feel about performing?

I’ve been performing live for the past 3 years. Over the past couple years my stage presence and performance has tremendously improved. I’m confident that I can rock any arena or stadium by myself.

I’m inspired to be more transparent in music. I always make club songs, but this year I plan to challenge myself with different sounds of music.
CarlaG

What single are you pushing now? Tell us about it.

I have two singles I’m pushing right now titled Freak Heaux and Yo Birthday. Both songs I wrote in my car just vibing out to instrumentals. @BallOnDaBeat produced Freak Heaux and @JonnyYayo77 produced Yo Birthday. Both songs have visuals out right now available on YouTube (@TheOfficialCarlaG)

IN CLOSING

So besides music, are there any other ventures you are currently sewing your seeds in?

Outside of music I am an entrepreneur and teacher. I just recently started in the transportation industry. I also have a lingerie/clothing line.

Where do you see yourself in the next 3 to 5 years?

In the next 3-5 years I see myself at the Grammys, all of the award shows and just being one of the main faces in music from Chicago. I plan to be the new hot topic in the music industry.

Let the people know how to get in contact with you?

You can find me on all social media @crazyyassgirl and also on YouTube @TheOfficialCarlaG

The Watchlist: Conversation With A Vision | Shani Shanell

on February 6, 2023 Artist Interviews add comment

Welcome to The Watchlist: Conversation With a Vision where Straight Official’s own DJ Gea chop’s it up with a purpose. SHANI SHANELL is a songstress that’s singing her way into our hearts.

Q&A WITH SHANI SHANELL

DJ GEA: Let our readers know where you’re from and how the city you lived in motivated and pushed you?

Shani Shanell: I’m from the country, a little town called New Iberia, Louisiana. Where I’m from you have to dream big so you don’t have that small town mentality. So being where I’m from motivated me by simply being the community that it is and i knew i had folks watching and routing for me even if they didn’t say it or show it.

How did you get started in music? What was it about music that caught your attention?

I’ve always loved music and it all begin at church, and to this day you still hear me singing on sunday. I went through a lot at a young age so writing songs in the 3rd grade and singing was my escape. I really believe God gave me music to help me stay sane.

Where did the name come from?

Well my real name is Shaniqua Shanell, so I went ahead and took the Qua off and shortened it up and Shani Shanell was born.

When you know you are destined for greatness you just know.
Shani Shanell

SHIFTING GEARS

How long have you been doing music? What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?

I’ve been creating music since 2007. I started to take it serious about 4 years ago. I believe my biggest accomplishment so far was getting a song placed in a movie called Clout and being able to tour last year.

What do you bring to the game that no other artist is bringing?

I bring me! I’m not like anybody else, my personality is lit and my music feels good. I’m uplifting women and men, while making people think about love again, with a fresh sound that has a 90s RNB flair.

In 2023 how do you plan to set the tone?
Simply by being seen. I plan to be in all the places where the moves is being made and drop plenty visuals. The unreleased music I have right now is out of this world and I want to make sure I allow people to not only feel my words, but see what I’m saying.

It uplifts, makes folks want to be in love, and it also expresses relatable topics.
Shani Shanell

MUSIC IN SHANI’S WORDS

Describe your style of music?

I really sing whatever God gives me but if I have to put a name on it, I’d call it R&B with a real uniqueness. I take words very seriously, so whatever I’m talking about in these songs can’t just sound good, it has to make sense and it has to be a groove.

What’s your process to writing a song?
You know it depends, Sometimes they come quick and sometimes it takes days. But the first step is making sure God and I are aligned and then the next step is making sure the beat is dope. Then magic just happens.

What are some things you inspire to do with your music?
My main goals is to give God all the glory, create timeless music and help people love love again. It’s simple but it’s real.

Have you had any live shows and if so tell me about your favorite performance?
Yes I actually did a lot of performing last year. My favorite may have been my performance at The Collard Green Festival in Atlanta. The stage was so big and I think at that moment it was stamped, that I really wanted this.

What single are you pushing now? Tell us more about it.
I am currently pushing my single called All You Need. This one of them songs that took no time to write. It’s like God was singing the lyrics in my ear and I was just writing them down. It’s produced by Nino Beige. A visual is on the way. Will be out in the next coming weeks.

IN CLOSING

So besides music, are there any other ventures you are currently sewing your seeds in?

I have a couple things in the works. I’m not at liberty to speak on them now because they are in the beginning stages and I like to talk about stuff when it’s at the stage where nobody can talk down on it because it’s done. However I can say be on the look out for merchandise and my YouTube channel.

Where do you see yourself in the next 3 to 5 years?
I see myself flourishing in my creative career and effectively giving back and helping others. Have music out that will stand the test of time and be completely happy doing my job because it’s not really a job to me. It more like life.

Let the people know how to get in contact with you

The best way to get in contact with me is by following on Instagram at @_shanishanell_ or by clicking this link and that way they can follow all my social media outlets and check out this dope music. @shanishanell | Linktree (https://linktr.ee/shanishanell?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=5d6f1fa2-537d-4ca0-be68-9f8811a7a75e)

Ace Infiniti Chops It Up With DJ Pressure

on February 6, 2023 Artist add comment

ACE INFINITI is a well-known Hip Hop artist from Knoxville, TN, whose style comes across very unique with more west coast and southern twist. He will be live on 02/07 @ 7 pm on Felicia’s Madcap Show steaming on all social media platforms.

You can follow Ace Infiniti on Facebook: Ace Infiniti, Instagram as Ace Infiniti, and on YouTube @infinitemusictv7828. He has a soon-to-be newly released EP which is a tribute to Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary and Ace Infiniti’s 6th musical project. Ace released 2 singles in 2022 Ol’ Skool Party and Take It Off.

Ace also believes that he has a calling that is far greater than music. His goals are to incorporate that into his future endeavors. Ace is an entrepreneur and an owner of 3 different branches of his contracting business.

He recently stated, “I want to motivate and inspire people that they can achieve their goals and dreams despite the circumstances that life may have subjected them to”.

Join Felcia’s Madcap Podcast on IG: DJPressure_FeliciasMadcap, Facebook: Felicia’s Madcap Podcast NG, and Youtube: Felicia’s Madcap Podcast to stay connected and updated on the latest interviews.

**#GetSOM via** @madcappodcast & check out more emerging artists by clicking here.

Artists You Should Know | Skypp

on February 5, 2023 Artist TenthLetterMedia add comment

WHO IS SKYPP?

SKYPP is a cultivator of Hip-Hop that resides from the east side of Indianapolis, Indiana. Throughout his career in music, he has been the voice of reason using his Sophisticated Street Music to captivate his audience. With witty bars and cautionary narratives, he’s been a constant in the evolving Hip-Hop scene in the Circle City.

His music is mixture of boom bap, trap prophecies and braggadocious flows over modern production. So far left from the modern day standard in Hip-Hop, Skypp is the breath of fresh air that the game needs more so than often. His messages that range from self awareness and empowerment to introspection are a far cry from most aspiring rappers.

Byron Horton’s been immersed in Hip-Hop since the sixth grade. While not so bold at that time, his talent would be exposed through an incident that took place in middle school. A group of girls stole one of his notebooks and read his raps in front of the class. The attempt to embarrass him would backfire.

“They probably expected me to be discouraged, but it motivated me to make these people believers.”

BODY OF WORK

Skypp has an impressive catalog with multiple successes including a Top 15 charting release on iTunes in 2020. His notoriety however, would begin years before that. In 2011, after securing over half a million plays on his Skypp Saturdays series on SoundCloud he was on the radar of the industry’s elites.

Skypp gained the opportunity to not only open for Yo Gotti, but the chance of a lifetime in another Naptown celebrity. Mike Epps approached him with a record deal and flew the MC out to Atlanta for a Tupac Anniversary Celebration. He would meet Meek Mill, Rick Ross and the late Afeni Shakur.

Although the label would dissolve and the deal never came to fruition, he again was not discouraged. As one door closed on Skypp, another would open. A change in management would bring Sid “Uncle Jamz” Johnson (Babyface, Field Mob, Mariah Carey) to his request. It’s been all gas and no brakes ever since!

NEW RELEASE

Skypp Sorry 4 My Trauma — Skypp- Sorry 4 My Trauma

Skypp is coming out of the blocks fast in 2023. His anticipated project Sorry 4 My Trauma released on February 3rd. The album is currently in the Top 40 US Hip-Hop Albums on iTunes (#6). This places him amongst the ranks of Mount Westmore, Eminem, Drake & 21 Savage.

The twelve track album consists of production from Zero the Composer & The Megalodon. One of the hit singles “My HLF” is also making noise. It’s a smooth track that caters to the ladies this time around. You can check out the single down below.

Some have labeled 2023 as Skypp’s breakout year. While the debate is up for discussion, he feels as if this is moment in time is a milestone in his career. In a press release he stated, “S4MT is some of the most important music I’ve ever made. The transparency is refreshing but the music is just elite. This album will be highly revered and an instant classic. I’m sure of it.”

I have made many albums, over 15 of them and I can say that I have never made music quite like this.
SKYPP

EDITOR’S PICK

Skypp has always been on my radar of the Hip-Hop landscape in Indy. At one point he was hard to avoid. As well as being an artist, he is also revered for his work in his community. This gained the attention of the city. Soon after I would see the homie on the side of IndyGo buses all over the city!

Make sure you download Sorry 4 My Trauma today on iTunes & Amazon Music. In anticipation of my full listen of the album, I’ll leave you with one of my favorite sessions of Skypp. Check out “Music In Transit” down below!

**#GetSOM via** @TenthLetterMedia & check out more emerging artists by clicking here.

The Watchlist: Conversation with a Vision | DO$E

on February 2, 2023 Artist Interviews add comment

Welcome to The Watchlist: Conversation With a Vision where Straight Official’s own DJ Gea chops it up with a purpose. DO$E is an trendsetting artist who is calling next in music and fashion.

Q&A WITH DO$E

DJ GEA: Let our readers know where you’re from & how did the city you lived in motivate you and push you?

DO$E: I’m from Dallas, Tx. I love being from Texas, I think it’s nothing like a great rapper from the south. It’s something about that southern accent and swag.

How did you get started in music? What was it about music that caught your attention?

I’ve always been a writer and I’ve always loved music. I wrote a lot of poetry and used to read a lot growing up. I’ve always had a passion for music as long as I can remember and I didn’t start writing raps until I was 18.

Where did the name come from?

My best friend came up with it, I had been going back and forth between a few names and nothing seemed to stick. Soon as she suggested Dose it stuck and has been my name ever since.

How long have you been doing music? What has been your biggest accomplishment so far?

I started writing raps at 18, but I didn’t start recording until I was about 20 years old and my biggest accomplishment so far is reaching 10k views on a video that I released called “Check On It.”

SHIFTING GEARS

What do you bring to the game that no other artist is bringing now?

I don’t want to ride a wave, I want to bring something new, and have my music motivate boss women all over the world. My goal is to bring back music videos that look like movies, and stand out as I get creative with each track and video I release.

In 2023 how do you plan to set the tone?

Consistency. I’ve been making music for about two years now, but I’ve never done so consistently. I feel I’ve taken enough time to duck off and work on my craft and sound. Now I’m ready to elevate and shake the game up with this Dallas swag.

What are some things you inspire to do with your music?

I inspire to be unpredictable. I want to keep my audience on their toes and engaged for a long time. One of the main things I want to do is be creative and think outside of the box for concepts and my work in the future.

LETS TALK MUSIC

Describe your style of music?

I would describe my style of music as one that incorporates wordplay and switching up my flow.

What’s your process for writing a song?

Typically I hear a beat and if I’m drawn to it, I can immediately write to it. When that begins I paint a picture in my head and catch a vibe.

Have you had any live shows and if so tell me about your favorite performance?

I’ve only had one so far. It was for a live contest. I was very nervous, but the crowd and judges received me well and it was an amazing feeling!

What single are you pushing and How did it come about? How long did it take you to write it? Who is the producer?
Is there a visual for the song?

I’m about to release my new single “Twelve” on January 31st. There is a visual coming out that I’m planning to drop in mid-February. I’m very excited to drop the visual, it’s my favorite so far. The song was produced by Migueleazy on Instagram. The song didn’t take long, it came to me naturally once I heard the beat, and 30 minutes later I had a hit on my hands.

IN CLOSING

Besides music, are there any other ventures you are currently sewing your seeds in?

I went to school and got a degree in Fashion Design and I put my fashion dreams on hold to focus on my music, but now I plan on revisiting that dream and exploring my clothing line. In every video I’ve posted either I or one of my video vixens are wearing original pieces hand sewn by me.

Where do you see yourself in the next 3 to 5 years?

In the next 3-5 years, I see myself finding success within my music and starting my fashion line.

Let the people know how to get in contact with you.

Theonlydose on IG
Dallas Dose for YouTube and Tiktok

World Premiere: Mr. Hubb Presents Legacy

on February 2, 2023 Artist Music add comment

Mr. Hubb teams with singer Penelope for his latest single, Legacy. The Newark, New Jersey native, rapper, mental health advocate and owner of The Hubb Arts and Trauma Center has a mission to bring positivity and understanding to the world and he does just that on this release.

Mr. Hubb is quoted as saying “Legacy was written as a way of highlighting a few questions that many have asked and are still seeking the answers to. What does Legacy really mean to people, and how do I say goodbye?

Too many times we experience loss and never get the closure needed to properly heal. This leads to depression, sadness and maladaptive behaviors to cope with our grief. In the song, Penelope serenades us with the chorus and a hypnotic melody that rings “Memories are on repeat” and it reminds us “That it’s ok to not be ok but we can’t stay stuck there!” These reminders can keep their legacy alive in our hearts. We wrote and recorded this song during a painful reality of several losses for me personally. We shared it as a gift to the world because it became a tribute to those who have lost loved ones, like we have, to remember that your loved one left a “Legacy” for you to cherish forever!”

Click the link and check out the brand-new single right here on straighofficial.com! SoundCloud Widget

Make sure to check out even more content from straightofficial.com, Uncanny and #GetSOM!

Artists You Should Know | Jai Humble

on January 24, 2023 Artist TenthLetterMedia add comment

WHO IS JAI HUMBLE?

JAI HUMBLE is an amazing talent in the world of R&B. Originally from San Diego, California Jai possesses both the swag and the energy necessary to catapult her to the top of the industry. While she is charming and laid-back, the girl next door also has a story to tell through her music.

From her humble yet structured beginnings, Jai was raised in a military family. I asked her what drew her to want to pursue a career in music. Humbly she replied “The ability to express myself and my experiences is what convinced me. I have a unique sound and I’m not just a brand. I’m also a lifestyle.”

As a child Jai had an unforgettable voice. She was the lead for her church choir before becoming a star athlete. As a basketball celebutante, she would experience tragedy before her senior year of high school. Losing her 15 year old brother Ziggy brought Jai to indescribable lows.

But as the Phoenix rises, so did Jai.

She would go on to Mississippi College where her skills were being recognized on a regional level. Jai said that she still wanted more. Then there’s that voice we talked about earlier. After gaining the attention of local entertainment figures, Jai would make the move to Dallas and never looked back.

BODY OF WORK

Since 2018 Jai has delivered on numerous tracks. The R&B songstress evolves on every track, giving her listeners different versions of her versatility. When I asked her where she draws inspiration to create she replied “different experiences and various situations led to an abundance of creativity.”

Jai has seen her share of success in her career. From her hit single “Loving Me Up” being featured on BET to receiving her first movie placement, she is observant of how she got here. “The accomplishments throughout my journey include the growth of my team and seeing where we came from and where we now stand.”

One of my personal favorites of Jai is her hit song “Whiskey On Ice.” This was my formal introduction to her while attending the 11th Annual Fleet DJs Music Conference. She performed live and her stage presence commanded the artists soundstage. Check out the subtle yet seductive introduction to Jai down below.

Never change who you are. Let what’s for you flow to you. Fall in love with the process.
Jai Humble

EDITOR’S PICK

Jai Humble blessed her fans early this year. She released her first project of 2023 titled “Stop Playing” today to rave reviews and replays! On a recent Fleet DJs Conference Call last week, she let us hear this and another unreleased track. While both songs resonated heavy, this song right here needs to be heard!

Produced by Mav Rock, Jai gives a side of her that hasn’t been displayed during her music career. Based on her life experiences she glides across the track and presents a powerful anthem for women. Check out the track down below and download and stream it on all music platforms!

Illy Octane & Tee Milly Release “I.N.D” Music Video

on January 24, 2023 Artist Music Videos add comment

ILLY OCTANE and TEE MILLY linked up and blessed us with a new visual for their hit anthem “I.N.D.” this week. The Naptown MC’s are a dope duo that were able to produce a track that further put the state on the map in terms of Hip-Hop representation.

The single is from the project Bar Budeez which is gaining streams on music platforms. The visuals capture several notable locations in Indianapolis, including Long’s Bakery and Lucas Oil Stadium. Octane & Milly ride the track while displaying Naptown swag.

Illy Octane Tee Milly IND video shoot — Visual from “I.N.D.” video shoot

The visual was shot by Justin Sutton (Planet 8 Productions) and it’s a track that deserves a replay. From the soulful sample to the intro of how they devised the hook, “I.N.D.” is a banger! Check out the official music video down below!

FOLLOW ILLY OCTANE & TEE MILLY ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Illy Octane

Instagram (@illy_octane) & YouTube (Illy Octane)

Tee Milly

Instagram (@_richermilly_) & Rich Harvest Music

If You Are an Independent Artist and Would Like to Be Featured on Straight Official Email us at StraightOfficialMag@gmail.com

DJ Whobeta presents Spencity & Tsunami Fly’s “Load Off”.

on January 17, 2023 Artist Music add comment

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DJ Whobeta has been a staple in the St. Louis music scene for well over a decade. His resume speaks for itself having worked with a who’s-who of local and national recording artists. After hosting various radio shows/podcasts/interviews and showcases, Whobeta has set his sights on the charts.

Teaming up with Mississippi crooner, Spencity and Pittsburg, PA’s own Tsunami Fly for his debut single Load Off. Hard work and consistency are the theme on this one. Whether you are a 9 – 5er or the ultimate hustler getting the load off is always the goal. Supplying quality music while maintaining authenticity is the plan for 2023, and this is just the start Whobeta was looking for. Inking a deal with VIP Records/EMPIRE has Whobeta in prime position to make the Midwest Connectz a household name.

Check out Load Off right here on straightofficial.com and let us know what you think about this new release.

Make sure to check out other great content from Uncanny and #GetSOM!

Neika Simone Is Here To Stay

on January 16, 2023 Artist Interviews add comment

We got the chance to catch up with R&B soulstress NEIKA SIMONE to get to know her better. We quickly learned why she’s the Queen of the current independent R&B scene.

Q&A WITH NEIKA SIMONE

How Did You Come Up With your Stage Name? Please tell us where you’re from and what first got you interested in the entertainment industry?

I’m from Kings Mountain, NC but currently live outside of the Richmond, VA area. My stage name Neika Simone came from trying to figure out if I should use my full first name (Toneika) or shorten it. I always knew I’d use Simone. I’m named after Nina Simone and thought about how Neika was similar to Nina and decided to go with that. I think I’ve always been interested in the music industry, but life didn’t align enough for me to move in that direction until a few years ago.

Who and/or what inspires you to create?

My life experiences have inspired what and how I create.

How would you describe your sound?

I think I have a unique sound. My voice is smooth with a quiet strength and full of range.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

What is your creative process like?

I write by either listening to music and allowing lyrics to come to me or either I hear music in my mind, and build the entire song from there. Sometimes I journal to fully explore where I want the song lyrics to go.

What artist(s) would you like to collaborate with?

That’s a great question! I love Lalah Hathaway! She would be my hands down first choice! I also love Maysa, Moonchild, Sade, and Kem. I could go on and on. There’s so many great artists out there!

If you could open a show for any artist who would it be?

I’d love to open for Lalah Hathaway or Kem!! That would be amazing!!!

Keep Going. Life throws all kinds of curveballs our way. Keep Going! Things won’t happen when or how you’d like but you’ll get there
Neika Simone’s message to her fans

SHIFTING GEARS

What is the most useless talent you have?

I guess I would say watching movies multiple times. I notice something different each time I watch the movie.

What would you be doing right now, if you weren’t doing music?

I have absolutely no idea! When I was younger I had a strong interest in medicine. I guess I’d probably be a nurse or nurse practitioner.

Who are some artists you admire and why?

The artist who made me fall in love with jazz is Ella Fitzgerald. Her story has always inspired me. One of her famous quotes says “It isn’t where you come from, it’s where you’re going that counts!”

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

I’ve been told to be true to myself. That can be a challenge in this industry. People will try to pull you in different directions. That can be scary because you don’t want to do something that could jeopardize success. Ultimately, remember who you are and be true to that. Being genuine will always shine through.

Remember who you are and be true to that. Being genuine will always shine through
Neika Simone on the best advice that she’s received

IN CLOSING

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

I dislike how people will try to take advantage of you. You really have to protect yourself and understand the business of it all. You need people around you who will be honest and will help point you in the right direction.

Congratulations on your latest project this year! Tell Us About It.

Yes, you’re correct! I released music for the first time and it’s been a fun ride! In February, I released an EP titled Beautiful Moments. The project has smooth jazz and R&B soul songs. In addition, I did two songs Picture Perfect and Tell Me that are R&B soul songs.

What’s next for you? Where would you like to see yourself in the next year?

In March I will release a new album called Point of View. I also have performances scheduled throughout the year. I’m looking forward to performing, making music and connections with fans.

What is your social media? How can people get in contact with you?

You can find me on my website at www.neikasimone.com, Instagram @Neika_Simone, Facebook @Neika Simone, TikTok @Neika Simone1, Twitter @Neika Simone

#GetSOM via @djspins and read about more emerging artists by clicking here.