Artist Archives - Page 4 of 26 - Straight Official Magazine

#SaturdaySpotlight Featuring Trajik | @big_trajik

on May 25, 2024 Artist Music TenthLetterMedia add comment

MEET TRAJIK

TRAJIK is an Indianapolis artist who’s a household name in the Hip-Hop landscape. The Traptown MC has a career that spans over a decade and includes milestones that most artists dream about. Always standing on business, Trajik delivers with gritty, impactful lyrics that highlight his well-documented rise to fame.

From gracing the cover of The Indianapolis Star as the face of Hip-Hop to appearing in hit FOX TV shows like Empire & Proven Innocent, Big Trajik has what it takes to break the glass ceiling.

TRAJIK-TO KILL A GOAT

Trajik’s latest release To Kill A Goat is ten tracks of his raw and uncut delivery. He links up with Naptown’s own Skypp for the single “My Truth” and Parris Ladame on “Me and My Bitch” that further cement the notion of talent in Indy.

The first single on the album “Goated” is where Trajik turns his thoughts into poetry. He spits, “cuz I was devoted/wise words been quoted/I took my pain an turned it into poetry/ready for the world ain’t no hoe in me/they act nonchalant but they notice me”

Check out the official video for “Goated” down below. To Kill A Goat is available now on all music streaming platforms.

EDITOR’S TAKE

Trajik is not only a veteran in the game, but also a dope friend. We’re both native to the east side of Nap and I have covered his career since the beginning of mine. I remember our first sit-down interview years ago while writing for Scoop The Entertainment Source magazine. He would then go on to grace our pages years later.

I reflect back to what I asked him in that interview about his future. No joke, he spoke on doing more than just rap. He had aspirations to become an actor, brand ambassador, etc… and it’s dope to see all of that come full circle!

Stay locked in with Trajik via social media on Instagram @big_trajik and give a listed to “To Kill A Goat” TODAY!!

**#GetSOM via** @TenthLetterMedia & click here for more emerging artists.

Journalist Bae | Lil Nas X Shades Beyonce

on May 24, 2024 Artist Entertainment Journalist Bae add comment

“I’m gonna take my horse to the old town road. I’m gonna riiiide ’til I can’t no more!” These are words we could not get out of our heads in 2019. Fast forward 5 years and enters Beyonce on the country music scene. Reportedly, Lil Nas X is “happy” for her success. However, he wishes he could’ve been a part of it. Sounds like a hater to me, on the low. He said this publicly so it’s not really that low anymore.

I love playing Devil’s advocate (no pun intended), but this time – I can’t go for that. What’s interesting about this story is that the boy has not made another country song since “Old Town Road”. Which, might I add, was removed from the Country charts for not being “country enough”. That may be a sentiment Beyonce can relate to given the backlash from the CMA amongst others. The difference is, she still stood 10 toes down for her art.

Standing On Business

Let me make it make sense. Though this is the first country album that Bey has released, this is not her first time being associated with the genre. During the ‘Lemonade’ era, she did perform her song “Daddy Lessons” with the Dixie Chicks and it wasn’t necessarily well received by the country community. They frivolously accused her of appropriating their culture. She let it rest with Renaissance. Then comes Cowboy Carter where the Texan doubles down on her country attempt. I guess you can say she’s 20 toes down at this point.

Lil Nas X Started Country Music For Black People

Lil Nas X had ONE single that was country-like, but transitions to collaborating with Doja Cat, Jack Harlow, and Megan Thee Stallion for his first studio album. I don’t know but the lineup isn’t screaming country music. As far as I’m concerned, “Old Town Road” was a one-off. At this time, when we mention his name, do you really think about his music or do his internet antics come to mind?

This makes me think of when JT scolded Suki. “You go viral for shock value content, but it’s never shocking or of any value.” That’s really what it’s giving, chile. It will be interesting to see if Lil Nas makes a return to the country scene. Baes, what are your thoughts? Is he reaching or does he deserve a little credit for “opening the doors” of hip-hip/R&B/Country fusion?

#GetSOM via @Mochathemack & click here for more from Journalist Bae!

Journalist Bae | New Music Friday

on May 24, 2024 Artist Journalist Bae add comment

Hey Baes! Monday is my favorite day of the week, but Friday follows right behind! Obviously, because TGIF, but also because we get a ton of new music weekly. Here are new songs and/or albums released the week of May 24th, 2024.

#1 Coi Leray x Lemon Cars

The young star releases a 6 track EP in the wee hours of May 24th. This project features Mike WILL Made-It and Skilla Baby. Personally, not my vibe but the 5th track stands out for me. Let me know your favorite!

#2 Shenseea x Never Gets Late Here

Jamaican star, Shenseea releases a 14 track album featuring Wizkid, Anitta, Coi Leray, etc. According to her in an interview with Apple Music, this album is giving timeless music. “Die For You” seems to be a crowd favorite, but I’m a little partial to “Work Me Out”. Just in time for Summer!

#3 Sexyy Red x In Sexxy We Trust

Controversial rapper, Sexyy Red has released a 14 track mixtape with features from the likes of Drake (U My Everything) and Lil Baby (Lick Me). The project is only about 30 minutes long which may be a blessing (or a curse) for some. The internet is already going crazy over the Drake feature. As for my personal recommendation, most of them were skips for me, but if I had to choose one – it would “Outside”.

#4 Payroll Giovanni x Have Money Have Heart

Another EP from the Detroit rapper. Detroit music has a certain sound and Gio nailed it. This project is only 6 tracks long, but if you’re a part of the hustle hard, grind time culture this will be perfect for you. In my opinion, vibes only get better with each track ending with crowd favorite “Cashout”. I’m not sure who produced this body of work but go ahead and give the man his flowers because the production is what makes it what it is for me.

#5 Please Don’t Cry x Rapsody

This album was released last week, but it’s soooo good I feel as if it is worth mentioning. It’s real rap, real vibes, from a real female rapper. Everybody from Lil’ Wayne to Erykah Badu to Alex Isley and more appear on this project. I won’t even be bias to any particular track. All I will say, LISTEN TO THE WHOLE THING! It’s 22 tracks, but all 65 minutes of it are worth it!

What did I miss? Let’s talk about it! I can’t wait for next week!

#GetSOM via @Mochathemack & click here for more from Journalist Bae!

Journalist Bae | JT Is Not The One

on May 23, 2024 Artist Entertainment Journalist Bae add comment

With the resurgence of diss tracks in 2024, the women are not excluding themselves. We’ve seen some drama pop off between JT, her former bandmate Yung Miami, and the ratchet woman’s favorite ratchet woman, Sukihana. First of all, I want to say I told you all last fall that the City Girl Era was coming to an end. Y’all didn’t believe me, maybe next time you’ll listen. Any who, JT, the self-proclaimed “City Cinderella”, has been doing her big one with these singles “Sideways”, “OKAY”, and “No Bars”. She became a cultural phenomenon practically independently and overnight. I mean how many individuals have you seen say or post “*muah* no bars”? That’s JT!

City Girls Go Head to Head

So boom, the girl is just as, if not more, successful than when she was a part of a group. For some reason, Yung Miami has been expressing that she basically feels as if JT’s been shady her whole career. We get to see them go back and forth for a while on twitter until the women agree it’s best settled off the internet, especially since they had spoken on the phone amidst the animosity and the energy was not same as it was “for the fans”. Now, I’m not one to choose between sides when I personally know ZERO parties involved. However, my girl JaTavia ate this up.

I have no doubt that Caresha is going through a rocky period, but what I experienced myself is that people will tell you to have empathy before you speak while not maintaining the same standard. We might not be going through the same thing but talk to me nice or I will come to you crazy. That’s not playing victim. That’s an equal energy exchange as far as I’m concerned. But I digress…

Is It Clout Chasing?

It’s either me or Cardi B, because she chipped her tooth too…”
@sukihanagoat

Moving on to the feud with Coochie Girl, Sukihana. She alleges that JT is dissing her in her song “OKAY”. According to Suki, the fans were tagging her and Cardi under one of JT’s posts where she mentions a woman chipping her tooth while eating crab legs. I guess JT took too long to respond and clear things up because Suki hits back with diss track “COCAINE”. JT says, there would be no reason to get in the booth and even think about her. I don’t know but Jatavia been eating the girls up lowkey.

Who’s side are you on?

#GetSOM via @Mochathemack & click here for more from Journalist Bae!

Journalist Bae | Cam’Ron on Diddy

on May 23, 2024 Artist Entertainment Journalist Bae add comment

For the longest, we’ve all been discussing “The Diddy Allegations”. My question is, what would you say if you had to appear on national television for commentary? One person that can answer that question is rapper, Cam’Ron, of the Diplomats (no political affiliation, which makes this all the more ironic).

Diddy has been in the news so much from being raided to alleged sex trafficking. The thing that we’re no longer alleging is that Mr. Man did indeed, put his hands (and feet) on longtime girlfriend, Cassie Ventura. Since the video evidence has surfaced, Diddy has issued an apology. Remember that this comes several months after discrediting women making allegations against him.

Earlier this week, Cam’Ron took to CNN for an interview. He apparently did not know that Diddy would be the topic of conversation, being that he’s not associated with him at this time. Cam made is clear on his podcast “It Is What It Is”, that even if the call from CNN was genuine – they should’ve checked his track record which news outlets. See what he says right here:

Some are saying this behavior is very immature and uncalled for, while others are saying it’s just “the New York” in him. Nonetheless, the anchor actually handled this as she should, in my opinion. I’m no one to judge, but baes, what are your thoughts? Let me know in the comments or head over to instagram and follow us @straightofficialmagazine for more updates.

#GetSOM via @mochathemack & click here for more from Journalist Bae!

#SaturdaySpotlight featuring Dead Silence | @deadsilence9

on May 11, 2024 Artist Saturday Spotlight TenthLetterMedia add comment

MEET DEAD SILENCE

DEAD SILENCE is an artist who while his moniker interprets his approach as quiet is the polar opposite. The Indianapolis MC has been making his rounds as of late. From hosting the How You What? Sophomore Cypher last month to appearances on CBS News affiliate morning shows, Silence is quiet as kept a staple in the Indy Hip-Hop community.

Dead Silence has both the talent, mind and heart to thrive as an artist. With his music featured on segments for both ESPN and The NBA on TNT, he has unique star quality. On the eve of his new project Thru The Fire being released, he invited us for a unique experience. Silence held a TTF listening session & video shoot for the smooth single “Vanilla Bean.”

Upon first listen, TTF is a no-skip project. It serves as both a story being told and background music for any facet of life. He then would tell us that the project was engineered to play as such, which is mind-blowing!

DEAD SILENCE-THRU THE FIRE

Thru The Fire is a 9 track EP that is designed to please. Dead Silence links with Naptown’s own Foxd’legnd on “Been Thru Hell” and provides the most relatable feeling to anyone listening. With production from DJ D Nyce & Zero The Composer, TTF is a vibe that needs to be experienced.

EDITOR’S PICK

Dead Silence is yet another deserving artist from Indianapolis who along with his counterparts continue to chip at the glass ceiling. Dubbed as the Morgan Freeman of Hip-Hop by his fans, his smooth delivery and cadence helps cater to the notion of music making a comeback this year.

My pick from TTF is the single “Vanilla Bean” which is making noise both here and across the pond. The single has made streaming platforms in Germany and helped expedite Silence to over 250,000 streams on Spotify.

But don’t take my word for it. Check out the lyric video for “Vanilla Bean” down below and stay tuned for the official music video featuring a cameo or two from yours truly!

Thru The Fire available NOW on all music streaming platforms!

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia & click here to celebrate Hip-Hop, lifestyle & culture!

King ZG Celebrates 25 Year Anniversary of “Enemy of the Break”

on May 5, 2024 Artist Music add comment

Blog cover art featuring cover art for the re-release of the classic bboy-inspired album "Enemy of the break" by Pikaso and King ZG (formerly P-Kid and Zulu Gremlin).

King ZG and Pikaso, formerly known as P-Kid and Zulu Gremlin, are celebrating the 25th anniversary of their collaborative album “Enemy of the Break”. The special digital re-release contains a slightly modified tracklist. The dynamic duo used the name S.W.A.T. which stands for Street Wise Art Technique. They’re reintroducing this iconic album to the digital realm through VIP Records/Empire.

Recorded back in 1999 in Daly City, California, “Enemy of the Break” was a product of the creative minds of P-Kid and Zulu Gremlin, produced under Zulu Gremlin Publishing BMI. The album features notable guest appearances from breaking legends like Ken Swift and Mr. Wiggles, embodying the essence of bboy culture.

Breakbeats

The original vinyl release has more songs, which consisted of breakbeats produced by Zulu Gremlin. But he has since released those as part of his “B-Boy Music” series. The Cambridge dictionary defines breakbeats as “a type of electronic dance music that includes parts of funk and soul songs”. During parties, the DJ would loop the drum beat, without the vocals, so people could dance to it. Breakdancers would often dance and battle over those part of the songs. Later artists and Bboys like Zulu Gremlin would specifically create music to for dancers, like the breakbeats in his series.

Reflecting on the album’s inspiration, King ZG shares, “The album was inspired by our mission of being the last Bboys. This album was made in the late 90s with bboy mc legends of the 80s on it as a last collaboration after we left Rock Steady Crew, started our own companies, and pursued our next missions in the music industry.“

Standout Singles

One standout track from the album, “I’m Sayin Though,” which features Ken Swift became a bboy anthem and was featured in the breakdance documentary film “The Freshest Kids.” The documentary was produced by Quincy Jones III’s QD3 Entertainment. The song was also recently used in an underground breakdance battle in Tokyo. You can watch the battle here (at the 1:15 mark).

The title track, “Enemy of the Break” has started taking off again being added to a few playlists recently as fans reconnect and new fans discover the classic sound.

“Enemy of the Break” is now available digitally worldwide on most major platforms via VIP Records/Empire. Relive the magic of this timeless album by listening now at https://swat.fanlink.tv/Enemy.

#GetSOM via @essince & click here for more emerging artists

Khujo Goodie Unleashes New Single ‘Showtime’ via Maverick Global

on April 20, 2024 Artist Music add comment

Renowned as a cornerstone of the Atlanta Hip-Hop scene, Khujo Goodie has cemented his legacy since his emergence in 1995. As a founding member of the illustrious Goodie MoB collective, he honed his skills alongside industry giants like The Lumberjacks, OutKast, and the Dungeon Family. Now, with a renewed vigor, Khujo Goodie introduces his latest single, “Showtime,” produced by DJ Papi.

Reflecting on the inspiration behind “Showtime,” Khujo Goodie shares, “Showtime is about being ready for whatever. It’s reintroducing Khujo Goodie as a top-tier MC that transcends all generations of hip hop. Showtime motivates the listener to want to win in whatever game of life they are playing. It can also serve as an anthem for a team needing that extra push to overcome adversity.“

Initially conceived for the upcoming football season, “Showtime” underwent a transformation at the hands of DJ Papi. While the original version featured sports references, they opted for a version with broader appeal, aligning with the universal themes of perseverance and triumph.

Khujo Goodie’s artistry extends beyond mere entertainment; it embodies a profound connection to his roots. Atlanta-born and bred, he recognized his destiny within the realm of Hip Hop from an early age. Co-founding Goodie Mob alongside Big Gipp, CeeLo Green, and T-Mo in 1994, the group fearlessly tackled societal issues such as racism, discrimination, geopolitics, and gentrification, leaving an indelible mark on Hip Hop’s landscape.

Despite facing adversities, including a near-fatal car accident, Khujo Goodie persevered. He solidified his solo career with releases like “The Man Not The Dog,” which graced the Billboard Top 100 charts. The reunion of Goodie Mob for albums like “Age Against The Machine” and “Survival Kit” attests to their enduring legacy.

Looking ahead, Khujo embarks on a series of new singles, building upon recent releases and his new position as Global Ambassador of new music distribution company Maverick Global.

Experience the empowering vibes of “Showtime” by streaming it on your favorite platform here.

#GetSOM via @essince & click here for more of my content

Payne Escobar Out To Prove He’s Next Up

on March 25, 2024 Artist Interviews add comment

PAYNE ESCOBAR of Bottom Boi Musik recently sat down with DJ Spins to talk about his viral single “Dirty Diana” The convo was dope and you can check it out down below. For more content from @djspins on other emerging artists, click here.

Q&A WITH PAYNE ESCOBAR

How Did You Come Up With your Stage Name?

Payne Escobar, meaning Pure A** Young N**ga Eaten with Escobar add for the Dope raw Lyrics.

Please tell us where you’re from and what first got you interested in the entertainment industry?

I’m from a little town called Blackstone VA but I move to Richmond where I became a known artist. I been interested since a child coming up in the Hip-Hop world. I knew then this is what I wanted to do.

Who and/or what inspires you to create?

My family is big in doing music so I just followed up. I created my own wave and made an impact in the game.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

How would you describe your sound?

Raw, gritty and impactful. A way different vibe than most.

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

I’ll rock with Jadakiss, Rick Ross, Finesse 2tymes and many more

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

Lil Wayne because that would be major! I love his work effort.

Get up and do it yourself. Time waits for no man. I use that in everyday life. Get up and go to it.
Payne Escobar

SHIFTING GEARS

What is one message you would give to your supporters?

Thanks for supporting me and believing in my craft. I promise to never fall off and keep giving y’all the music you enjoy.

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

Acting in movies. I also I have a movie that I’m starring in called Black Sheep airing on Tubi Tv and Prime Video.

Who are some artists you admire and why?

B.G because bro came home from doing like 13 years in prison. Came back in the game like he never left. He never gave up on the dream.

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

I wouldn’t change anything. I really don’t see any changing at this point. Its a lot going on in Hip-Hop today from my standpoint just being honest.

IN CLOSING

You dropped your latest release earlier this year. Tell us about it.

“Gorilla Season” I was basically me given the people me, who I was and what was going on in my life. It’s a really dope tape. I really put my life behind it. I also have the Real DJ Spins hosting the tape, so yeah I hope you enjoy listening.

As of Friday I dropped my new single “Dirty Diana” which is my first release thru my new distribution deal with Wild Dogs Ent.

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

Next is my new mixtape Gorilla Season 2 hopefully I can hit the road to do a tour. Next year it’s just gonna get better and better.

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

You can find me @OfficialPayneEscobar :IG

PAYNE ESCOBAR :Facebook

PayneEscobar :SC

#SaturdaySpotlight featuring T.G.I. Free | @iamtgifree

on March 23, 2024 Artist Music Music Videos TenthLetterMedia add comment

MEET T.G.I.FREE

T.G.I.Free is quickly becoming a force to be recognized in Hip-Hop. The Naptown MC from The Far made his presence felt at Chreece Nap City All-Star last month performing alongside Jet Santiago and Skypp. A few weeks later, the city was scrutinized for a cypher that made it’s rounds.

Free alongside 4 other far eastside artists were the city’s “Redeem Team” as the How You What? Sophomore Cypher was the take that did not miss! T.G.I. took the anchor of that track meet and with powerful, gritty punchlines he closed it out like Michael Jordan in Game 6.

CURRENT MUSIC

“Set You Free” is a 7 track production that highlights Free’s raw delivery and lyricism. From “10th Street” featuring Skypp to “Take My Crown” Free rode every track with purpose and precision over soulful samples from Isiah Darty (Zero) & Trashbaggbeatz. T.G.I. Free has the follow up to “Set You Free titled “Trust In Free” on the way later this year.

With the city of Indianapolis becoming the next city to produce the next big artist, Free has his cap in the circle and it ain’t safe! Check out T.G.I. Free alongside Jet Santiago in “Danger Zone” down below.

STAY CONNECTED WITH T.G.I. FREE

Stay tuned for “Trust In Free” from T.G.I. Free coming soon. Stream music on Apple Music & Spotify. Follow on social media:

Instagram-@iamtgifree

X-@iamtgifree

Youtube-@iamtgifree

TikTok-@iamtgifree

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia & click here to discover more emerging artists.