Artist Archives - Page 5 of 26 - Straight Official Magazine

FWM Music Group Is Bringing You Nothing But Beatz

on February 13, 2024 Artist Interviews add comment

BROOKZ of the legendary FWM Music Group sat down with DJ Spins to talk about his latest project & catch up on his Musical Journey. An established producer, Brookz has worked with Waka Flocka & Bubba Sparks To Name A Few. He has landed numerous production placements that include BET, VH1, MTV, Fox, NBC, ABC & other major networks.

Q&A WITH BROOKZ

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.
BROOKZ is a combination of my last name. I’m from Lancaster SC. My father got me interested in the entertainment business. He played the guitar & I learned how to play the piano & organ. When I turned seventeen I started DJ’ing local parties & events.

Who and/or what inspires you to create?
I’m inspired by what I see & hear mostly. Sometimes it’s a new artist on the rise that I can hear on certain style tracks or it’s the times we’re living in at that particular moment.

How would you describe your sound?
Original. I like new & different sounds. Sometimes I might create an original composition from scratch based on what sounds I like intertwined with whatever genre of music I think will fit it whether it’s rock, pop, soul, hip hop, country, classical etc. But it all depends on what I’m making it for also.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

What is your creative process like?
Depends on the mood. At times I might start out with a melody. Other times I might feel like I need to hear the percussion first. If I’m scoring something for a trailer or movie it’ll be some soundscapes or some type of cinematic sounds.

What artist(s) would you like to collaborate with?
Artists that have moved past the hobby stage of their career.

If you could open a show for any artist who would it be?
I’d like to produce a Hip-Hop record with Nas, Dr. Dre or OutKast & maybe an R&B record with Usher, Tank or Keisha Cole.

LET’S SHIFT GEARS

What is one message you would give to your supporters?
Thanks for vibin out to my music. Your part of the reason why I keep pushing along with my family & friends.

What is the most useless talent you have?
Stone or rock skimming

What would you be doing right now, if you weren’t doing music?
I would probably be working a 9-5 as a graphic or web designer at somebody’s company.

Who are some artists you admire and why?
I admire a lot of old school artists because they had to be authentic in what they created. While some have remade other people’s songs, it’s only because the label asked them to.

Be you. Everybody’s different in their own way & that separates you from the crowd
Brookz

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
Leveling the playing field more. It’ll take more equality in order for that to happen but it’s needed.

WRAPPING IT UP

You dropped your latest release this year. Tell us about it.
I dropped two actually. We released a new instrumental mixtape project called “Nothing But Beats” with The Real DJ Spins. It’s a collection of ruff, rugged, raw & smooth Hip-Hop tracks that have the sound of yesterday all the way up to the new school sound of today. Since it’s release, the mixtape has gotten rave reviews & generating numbers globally.

I also have a series of workout releases called “Let’s Work It.” The latest is Vol. 7 which is on all streaming platforms & being used in all major gyms & workout centers like Flywheel, Peloton, Apple Fitness & Planet Fitness in the states & overseas.

Nothing But Beatz Vol 2 (Mixtape)

What’s next for you, where would you like to see yourself in the next year?
Doing what I like & love to do. Creating that next sound & working with more creative people that know what they want & have that desire to go get.No one is gonna give it to you. You’ve got to earn it.

STAY CONNECTED WITH BROOKZ

Visit our website at fiwatermusic.com, Social Media Pages Is facebook.com/fwmgroupllc, instagram.com/fiwatermusic & My email: fwmgroup@yahoo.com or brookz@fiwatermusic.com

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

Straight Official Sit Downs: Afro Preachah

on February 7, 2024 Artist Interviews TenthLetterMedia add comment

AFRO PREACHAH stopped by our headquarters for this edition of Straight Official Sit Downs where we spotlight emerging artists. @TenthLetterMedia got the opportunity to chop it up with him this time and the vibe was dope! Check out their one-on-one down below and click here for more Straight Official Sit Downs.

Q&A WITH AFRO PREACHAH

Introduce yourself. Tell us where you are from and what first interested you in the entertainment industry?

They call me Afro Preachah. I was born in Kansas City, KS and grew up in Missouri before moving to Minnesota. The name was given to me by my producer friend Griff. What interested me was watching music videos from Run DMC, Public Enemy, Morris Day, Bootsy Collins.

Who or what inspires you to create?

My first inspiration was my father and grandfather. Both are preachers. Growing up in church. The rhythm of music in general. Music, words and rhythm have been on auto play my whole life.

How would you describe your sound?

I would say it’s a fusion of then and now. Old and new. Hip-Hop, Funk, R&B, Soul and sounds of Gospel. So folks call is “Sexy Chuuch music”. It makes me laugh.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

Tell us about your creative process. What are your go-to’s for a session?

I like to just vibe out in my mancave when I get the music from my producers. Play video games, watch anime, smoke one. Surround myself with art. I basically “Nerd Out” (laughs).

What artists would you like to collaborate with?

Artists I’m a fan of.include Morris Day, Tech N9ne, Trinidad James, MC Lyte, Chris Brown, 69 Boys & Bootsy Collins.

The music is for you & them, not me. The real grassroot. I’m just the vessel. I could never say thank you enough. Living my dream to do music for folks that want it is a true blessing. Gratitude.
Afro Preachah’s words to his fans

LET’S SHIFT GEARS

What’s a skill/talent that you possess that no one knows about?

I practice five different forms of Kung-Fu & Martial Arts.

If not for music, where would you be in life right now?

That’s a great question. I’ll have to ask God and get back to you on that one.

If you could change the music industry in any way, what would you change and why?

Well, in a dream I had all labels support all artists from an independent artist aspect. Why that change? Speaking for myself, I’m an LLC. Yes, I’m an artist but business comes first. So, presenting any kind of business that would hurt personally is off the table.

Important things artists should know. How to balance their checkbooks, understanding sync licensing to running your independent artist website. Labels offer real music business education. In these past years in my opinion, we’ve had why to many negative outcomes in our African American entertainment community. Label can make just as much money by educating their artists to own themselves. Then I woke up! (laughs)

WRAPPING IT UP

Do you have a new project out? If so, tell us more about it and where we can hear it.

Yes, actually a couple projects. “Watch Me” produced by @Lstmusic and “Rap Caviar” by @flamesquadDJMC. You can stream, download and watch video on www.afropreachah.com

Give us your final words. Let us know where we can follow on social media.

You can find me @afropreachah YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and X. For all the content that doesn’t make it to social media go to www.afropreachah.com and subscribe.

Vinal Luciano Brings His “Aquarius” Album To Life

on February 1, 2024 Artist Music add comment

One of Midwest Hip Hop’s best-kept secrets, Vinal Luciano is back with his new album Aquarius. The album puts Vinal’s exceptional talent and creativity on full display. The album offers a unique blend of lyrical prowess and musical innovation. Short on run time at only 8 tracks, the project is packed with emotionally compelling and thought-provoking content.

“Aquarius” is more than just a collection of songs. It is a narrative that delves into various themes and deep feelings. From introspective tracks that offer a glimpse into Vinal Luciano’s personal experiences to socially conscious lyrics that address pertinent issues. Aquarius boasts stand-out tracks like “Monday Blues” and the lead single, “MIA” featuring Junior Pasare. Singles like these prove that Vinal has a penchant for creative songwriting and vivid storytelling.

To truly appreciate the Aquarius album, it’s essential to understand Vinal Luciano’s musical journey and the influences that have shaped his artistry. From his early beginnings to the development of his distinctive style, Vinal displays an immense amount of growth and comfortability with his craft that embodies how Hip Hop isn’t just something he creates but is a part of his makeup. Turning some of life’s biggest tragedies into some of his best music, Vinal leaves quite the impression with this first quarter release.

Check out the Aquarius album right here on straightoffical.com and drop a line about your favorite song. AQUARIUS by Vinal Luciano on TIDAL.

Also, make sure to tap in with Uncanny for more great content and #GetSOM!

Bozea Makes You Bounce With Latest Single

on January 23, 2024 Artist Interviews add comment

BOZEA is an up and coming Hip-Hop artist that sat down with @djspins this week to talk about his recent moves and new single. Check out their one-on-one down below and stay locked in with Straight Official Magazine as we celebrate Hip-Hop, lifestyle & culture!

Q&A WITH BOZEA

How did you come up with your stage name? Tell us where you’re from and what first got you interested in the entertainment industry?

The name BOZEA came from a close friend who used to say I was a deep story teller like a prophet. I’m from Cleveland, OH. I was always excited about Rap/Hip-Hop. As a child and started writing lyrics at age 14 due to the challenges and struggles I was facing in my environment. I wanted to put my life story on paper.

Who and/or what inspires you to create?

Seeing how far rap has gone and still striving keeps me motivated as well as the fans who support me.

How would you describe your sound?

My sound is a Cleveland lyrical grimy style full of truth.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

What is your creative process like?

I go with what my mind gives me in everyday life and what the track causes me to create afterwards.

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

I’m down to collaborate with both major and independent artists who are lyrically talented and serious about their craft.

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

I’m going to have to think big and say Jay Z, 50 Cent, Lil Wayne, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, and J Cole.

Always believe in yourself more than anyone else.
Bozea’s best piece of advice

LETS SHIFT GEARS

What is one message you would give to your supporters?

I’m going to always drop quality material with a solid flow and thanks for keeping me wanting to continue making music

What is the most useless talent you have?

Drawing. I have to say because I used to love to draw as a child and teenager but found it useless for me.

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

It’s hard to imagine not making music because it is my life.

Who are some artists you admire and why?

I admired 2Pac for his diversity in topics and Biggie for his creative wordplay.

WRAPPING IT UP

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

The unnecessary violence and cut throat industry professionals.

You Dropped Your Latest Release Earlier this Year. Tell’s Us About It

“Bounce To Wut Im Sayin” is a club banger to make people dance and have a good time while vibing to it.

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

Next for me is nonstop shows, a lot of new music and videos, and major radioplay to attract new fans.

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

Instagram is bozea, YouTube is BOZEA

Straight Official Sit Downs: NYREISHA

on January 22, 2024 Artist Interviews add comment

NYREISHA is an emerging R&B artist who took the hot seat this week for another edition of Straight Official Sit Downs. With @klassikceo serving up the questions, Nyreisha broke down her journey into becoming the next big star. Check out their one-on-one down below and click here for more Straight Official Sit Downs.

Q&A WITH NYREISHA

What is your Name? Where are you from and what first got you interested in the entertainment industry?

My name is Nyreisha and I’m from San Diego , CA. I’ve wanted to be singer my whole life so you could say I was born with the interest , lol. So when I discovered I had a talent for writing and singing, I knew there was no limit.

Who and/or what inspires you to create?

My music is heavily inspired by love. Whether it be newfound love, the loss of love, or the lack thereof, love is what inspires every song I write.

How would you describe your sound?

I think my sound is like old school rnb mixed w’ a little bit of the present. It gives you that feel good love song vibe that makes you feel something.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

What is your creative process like?

Most of the time it starts with a beat. When I hear a beat that speaks to me, the song pretty much writes itself, usually starting with the chorus. Other times it begins with a poem that I play around with to find a melody that I like and then I try and find a beat that fits it later on.

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

I actually have a list on my phone of dream collaborations. My number one was always Michael Jackson. As far as right now, I would LOVE to work with The Weeknd, Josh Levi, Chris Brown, Brent Faiyaz, Lucky Daye & the list goes on. If I’m honest, but we can leave it there for now (laughs).

What is one message you would give to your supporters?

Oh man, honestly, just thank you. Thank you for being here for the journey. It’s nowhere near as magical if I can’t share it with y’all. & always remember that life only goes one way and that’s forward, so always move forward with love.

Be intentional with your words. Speak only truth and love and positivity. You control the tongue, you control the world.
Nyreisha’s best piece of advice

SHIFTING GEARS

What is the most talent/skill you have that most people don’t know about?

I am REALLY good at modeling Sims characters after real people (laughs). I’m kidding, but a talent I possess is I’m really good at doing accents from around the world!

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

Two goals of mine outside of my music are to become a Licensed Music Therapist and a Licensed Master Esthetician. Lucky for me, all can be achieved while also pursuing my music career. There is nothing you can’t achieve when you believe in yourself.

Who are some artists/people you admire and why?

Honestly, I admire anyone who has a dream or a goal that they’re chasing after. It’s a challenge to let go of everything you know and let go of the fear and just believe you can and then do it!! Life is meant to be lived & the world is way too big to be stuck living in your head.

WRAPPING IT UP

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

I wish it would be more accessible to artists who actually have an overall passion for the music and not just to people who have a large following / fan base.

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

I couldn’t tell you what’s next for me. I know that I’m grateful for the moment and I’m enjoying every bit of it. In the next year, I see myself sharing more of my songs all over the world and connecting to people through my music.

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

My Instagram , TikTok , and X can all be found under @nyreisha__ (my name with two underscores)

Straight Official Sit Downs: LIL TMAC

on January 20, 2024 Artist Interviews add comment

LIL T MAC stopped by our headquarters this week for another edition of Straight Official Sit Downs. The Orange County artist chopped it up with our very own @klassikceo as we got to know the emerging artist. Check out their one-on-one down below and click here for more Straight Official Sit Downs.

Q&A WITH LIL TMAC

What is your Name? where you’re from and what first got you interested in the entertainment industry?

My name is Terrence Johnson (TJ) and I’m from Orange County. I’ve been interested in making music ever since I saw my potential with my first 2 songs “I’m So Precise” and “U Better Move.”

Who and/or what inspires you to create?

I get inspired to create music when listening to similar songs to my flow and cadence. My taste is very rare and not from my region so I enhance it and bring it to everyone attention to observe.

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

Artist I would like to collab with would be Young Thug, Jay Fizzle and Kanye West. I can make this happen soon. I rarely collab but that will change.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

What is your creative process like?

How I become creative is by finding the right sound and deliver it on queue and believable without saying it. Just sitting down and getting to business. I mostly write my music, but my last few tracks I’ve recorded were freestyles.

What is one message you would give to your supporters?

I would advise my supporters to try something your good at and become the best at it. Don’t compare yourself to others. Focus on your craft and those achievements will come.

What is the most talent/skill you have that most people don’t know about?

I’m pretty good at skateboarding. I skated for about 6 years but had a few injuries in the past. I’m picking it back up now.

SHIFTING GEARS

Have fun and work hard. Nothing in life should be taken for granted. Mind your own & stay in your lane
Lil TMac best advice to his followers

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

If I wasn’t doing music I would be listening to it. Just kidding (laughs) I would probably start a business, going to school for medical lab stuff driving my Benz.

Who are some artists/people you admire and why?

Some artist I admire are Big Scarr Rip. His music always was consistent and he’s stayed loyal to the fans. He got famous of one song. I’ll do it too, watch.

WRAPPING IT UP

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

If I could change anything about the industry it would be the gay stuff and selling your soul for clout. Nothing in this world is valuable enough to sell your soul for. I don’t push religion on people but seek God. He’s the way.

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

I see myself doing shows next year. I plan on selling merch and going on tours and helping out the people who helped me. Giving back, going strong and dominating my area in Orange County and the world.

STAY CONNECTED WITH LIL TMAC

Social media handles are @Tjohnsonn.3 on Instagram and on YouTube (Lil TMac Vevo). I respond back to any dm sent to my inbox. Peace.

Straight Official Sit Downs | Masta Edge of Soul

on January 11, 2024 Artist Interviews add comment

MASTA EDGE OF SOUL is the next contestant taking the hot seat for this edition of Straight Official Sit Downs. @klassikceo got the opportunity to chop it up with the emerging artist and you can check out their session down below. Stay tuned in to StraightOfficial.com where we celebrate HIp-Hop. lifestyle and culture!

Q&A WITH MASTA EDGE OF SOUL

What is your Name? Where are you from and what first got you interested in the entertainment industry?

My name is “Masta Edge of Soul” and I was raised in Suffolk Va. and Queens New York .

I guess my first interest in entertainment came at an early age. In my life I have known not singing. A song and music is who and what I am. I would say that my creativity and inspiration comes from the beautiful tones and the rhythm of music.

Who and/or what inspires you to create?

I can’t pick any one particular artist. It expands from James Brown, Nat Cole, Frank Sinatra, Frank Zappa! The Delfonics (my all time favorite group!) Motown , Phill International, Stax, The Beatles and many others.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

How would you describe your sound?

I would describe my sound as soulful, edgy, tender, caring and rhythmic. I love all colors of music

What is your creative process like?

My creative process is in the fact that it flows through in every moment! I believe the music is continuously flowing through me.

I truly love making music! I love performing for fans. I feel that I have a message that needs to be heard.
Masta Edge of Soul

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

In terms of artist that I would like to collaborate with, that’s really hard at this point. The music has changed so much. The TRULY great artist that I resonated with are no longer. That’s not saying that I don’t respect the new artists. I’m just from a different quality of creativity and sound.

LET’S SHIFT GEARS

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

What I would doing doesn’t exist without music. Again, there is something that’s moving and alive in me to be and make a difference in this world.

Who are some artists/people you admire and why?

I have a few that I admire. Some of my favorites include William Hart, Marvin Gaye Luther Vandross, EWF & Sly Stone.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?

To be aware of your every breath.

IN CONCLUSION

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

Next year is to far. Right NOW is all that matters.

12. What is your social media? How can people get in contact with and follow you?

You can go to my website at https://www.uniglobalrecords.com and look for me on Facebook (Uniglobalrecords2023)

Jet Santiago Sets The Bar With “You Coulda Been Here” LP

on January 11, 2024 Artist Music TenthLetterMedia add comment

JET SANTIAGO is set to release his anticipated album “You Coulda Been Here”this week and the bar has officially been set! The artist, producer and songwriter is creating his own wave as YCBH is unlike the standard rap album. Equipped with witty and poignant bars and a style that is unmatched, Jet intends to claim Best Rap album of the Year just 11 days into the new year.

Jet is no stranger to the digital pages of Straight Official. He’s headlined several #SaturdaySpotlight features as well as the Artist You Should Know section of the publication. If you don’t know him by now, you will!

Jet Santiago | You Could’ve Been Here

YCBH breaks down into four different acts. Act 1 includes the smash hit singles “Law Of Attraction” and “Money Mitch” featuring June10th. The second act titled The Break Up features “Melanin Mona Lisa” which features Maxie & “The Break Up” featuring Skypp & 4200Kory.

Act 3 features the bangers “Jet Li” & “Outta Mind” which highlights Jet’s lyrical prowess. Act 4 closes out the LP with selections that cater to the ladies. Songs like “Come Over” & “Maybe…It’s Me” displays his versatility and depth.

Jet has a couple of visuals on YouTube that compliment this well put together album. Check out “Money Mitch” captured by @ShotbyStillcannon down below. Also check out “You Coulda Been Here” by Jet Santiago NOW on all music streaming platforms. Let us know what you think down in the comments section.

As an added bonus, check out the dope visual for “Massacre on Mass Ave” which is another hot single from YCBH down below!

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

King Louie Delivers On His New Single “Let King Stand”

on January 9, 2024 Artist Music add comment

Chicago legend, King Louie is back with his latest single “Let King Stand.” This track has generated significant buzz and attention within the music industry and among his fan base. King Louie, also known as King L, gained recognition for his contributions to the drill music subgenre, which emerged from the South Side of Chicago. With his distinctive style and lyrical prowess, King Louie has solidified his position as a key figure in the city’s rap scene. His previous releases have garnered acclaim for their raw authenticity and unapologetic storytelling.

“Let King Stand” is a testament to King Louie’s artistry and evolution as a musician. The song showcases his adeptness at crafting compelling narratives and delivering impactful verses. The track delves into themes of resilience, perseverance, and empowerment, reflecting King Louie’s journey and experiences. Through introspective lyrics and captivating production, “Let King Stand” offers listeners a glimpse into the artist’s mindset and creative vision.

Upon its release, “Let King Stand” has sparked conversations within the music community. Its poignant message and infectious sound have resonated with both fans and critics. The song’s reception underscores Louie’s ability to connect with audiences on a profound level while maintaining his artistic integrity.“Let King Stand” has contributed to shaping the contemporary landscape of hip-hop, cementing King Louie’s influence in the industry.

Listen to”Let King Stand” right here on straightoffical.com . Drop a line to let us know what you think about the single.

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

C Doll Is Out To Prove She Meant That

on January 4, 2024 Artist Interviews add comment

C DOLL stopped by our headquarters this week to chop it up with @djspins. The vibe was indeed dope! Check out their one-on-one down below and click here to discover more emerging artists.

Q&A WITH C DOLL

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

I really wanted the letter “C” to start my stage name off because my real name starts with a “C”. At the same time, i wanted “Doll” or “Bratz” with my name as well. It literally took me 2 seconds to say “I’m going with C Doll because CBratz sounds horrible”. I’m from Arkansas & I’ve been interested in the entertainment industry since I was small. I love music. It’s a way to cope with a lot and help express yourself as well.

Who and/or what inspires you to create?

Knowing I have the potential and it’s what I love to do.

How would you describe your sound?

I would describe my sound as catchy and aggressive.

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

What is your creative process like?

I’ll write an entire song before I even find a beat. I can literally write 3 songs at a time. For example, I can be writing to one song and be like “nah this verse sounds good for the song” and be back and forth song to song.

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

Females: Latto & Lakeyah. Males: Big Homiie G & Luh Tyler.

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

Glorilla & Lil Baby

What is one message you would give to your supporters?

Thank you for being a source of inspiration and motivation.

SHIFTING GEARS

What is the most useless talent you have?

Most people wouldn’t know it, but I am pretty good at singing.

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

If I wasn’t pursuing a music career, I would be working in a field that matches my college degree.

Who are some artists you admire and why?

I admire Keyshia Cole. I admire her because she started off humble and confident with everything she did. Every song and video, you could literally feel everything she felt.

IN CONCLUSION

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

I would change the “want to be competition”. I feel like everyone in the industry is up, no matter if they have 500,000 compared to your 1M, they still making progress and out there making it happen.

You Dropped Your Latest Release Earlier this Year, Tell’s Us About It.

My latest release is called “Meant Dat”. It’s really about me expressing how i feel about certain situations and coming right after saying I meant dat in certain parts of the song. Meant dat in other words means i’m saying I mean it/I’m standing on business.

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

Few more singles to drop, then album mode! In the next year, I would like to see myself listed number 1, 1M + more views/listeners on all platforms, doing features with artists i’ll like to collaborate with, and living it up!

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

IG: @Itsreallycdoll , YT: Therealcdoll , Spotify: Cdoll , Twitter: @Itsreallycdoll , TikTok: @_therealcdoll

#GetSOM via @djspins