Artist Archives - Page 5 of 26 - Straight Official Magazine

#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.

Skypp Releases “Sorry 4 My Trauma Too”

on March 17, 2024 Artist Music TenthLetterMedia add comment

SKYPP is riding a few waves going into this weekend. The Indianapolis MC is a year removed from releasing “Sorry For My Trauma” which debuted at #6 in the world. He also alongside 4 other Naptown artists released the “How You What? Sophomore Cypher 8 days ago. At nearly 20k in views and rising, this push is coming at an ideal time.

SORRY 4 MY TRAUMA TOO | SKYPP

On Friday, Skypp released “Sorry 4 My Trauma Too” to the masses. The project is anticipated to be a “sophomore effort” to the SMFT series. With Skypp there’s never been a need to worry about a jinx of any kind. He’s a multi-time iTunes charting artist with placements that keep him around the names of Drake & 21 Savage on most occasions.

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 rappers today.

SKYPP during the "How You What? Sophomore Cypher (Photo Cred: Kaymakay Designs) — SKYPP during the “How You What? Sophomore Cypher (Photo Cred: Kaymakay Designs)

Skypp-Sorry 4 My Trauma Too

STAY CONNECTED

Skypp (Photo Cred: Kaymakay Designs) — (Photo Cred: Kaymakay Designs)

Follow Skypp on social media on Instagram, YouTube & Spotify

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

Young Pope Is Here To Stay

on March 11, 2024 Artist Interviews add comment

Young Pope recently sat down with DJ Spins to talk about the latest shows, his upcoming plans for the year & much more! We got up close & personal to Know Young Pope in this exclusive 1 On 1 interview with Straight Official Magazine.

Q&A WITH YOUNG POPE

How did you come up with your stage name?
My stage name was brought to me by a dream I had one night where I was in front of a big crowd and the background of the place I was at was a church. I then looked down and I saw that I was wearing a robe/pope robe. Since then I came up with the stage name “Young Pope”

Please tell us where you’re from and what first got you interested in the entertainment industry.
I was born in Mexico but have lived all my life in Houston, TX. What got me interested in the entertainment business was the spotlight an artist gets, that being the money, the fame and the thought of millions listening to my music and being real lifetime fans.

Who and/or what inspires you to create?
Great Artists like Bad Bunny, J Balvin and Drake are some who inspired me to create my music. Also, it inspires me to create knowing any song that I make can go to the top of the charts with one single clip on social media. That drives me to keep creating new music.

How would you describe your sound?
I would describe my sound as a Mainstream radio / Latin trap sound. If i can use a word to describe my sound i would say “Trendy”

THE CREATIVE PROCESS

What is your creative process like?
I start by playing beats on YouTube. On another phone I press record on my voice memos and I freestyle to different instrumentals. Once I have a base or a chorus/rhythm to the verses I go back and listen to the recording of the freestyle session and plug in words if needed and create as I listen back to the sessions

What artist(s) would you like to collaborate with?
Bad Bunny, J Balvin, Young Miko, Rauw Alejandro, Feid, Drake & Travis Scott

If you could open a show for any artist who would it be?
It would have to be either bad bunny or Drake since I make both genres.

What is one message you would give to your supporters?
Never stop believing in your dreams even if nobody else believes in them. If you can visualize your dream in your head then you can make that come true. Stay focused and disciplined towards your goal because it will not come easy. Time is running out day by day so don’t waste it.

SHIFTING GEARS

What is the most useless talent you have?
The most useless talent is being able to overthink myself into thinking I have a rare disease.

What would you be doing right now, if you weren’t doing music?
The same thing I would be doing now but minus the music and that would be having a high income job with multiple streams of income from other sources of income.

Who are some artists you admire and why?
Drake and J Balvin are two of the biggest artists I admire due to breaking the records beyond what anybody would ever think was possible and continuing to stay relevant for so long.

What is the best advice you’ve been given?
Invest in your craft, invest in yourself, and invest in your knowledge.

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?
It would be to open more doors for more artist to get the major spotlight big labels give to an artist.

IN CLOSING

Tell us about your latest release.
I just released 2 new singles, the latest one is “Tocar a ti” . It’s a Latin reggaeton song. My other release is “DMLQTQ” which is another Latin reggaeton song. Both of these records mark my lane to the Spanish side of my music career and they are the base of the hits I have in store coming.

What’s next for you, where would you like to see yourself next year?
I have more music I want to release, more singles and an EP. I got English/Hip-Hop songs coming as well with visuals. Next year I would like to see myself on bigger platforms performing at bigger shows and expanding my fan base worldwide.

STAY CONNECTED WITH YOUNG POPE

My Instagram is @realyoungpope, Twitter is @ IYoungPope, YouTube is Officialyoungpope and lastly my TikTok is imyoungpope

#GetSOM via @djspins & click here to celebrate Hip-Hop, lifestyle and culture.

Ness: The Philly Bad Boy

on March 9, 2024 Artist Goat Vibez Interviews add comment

Lloyd Mathis, known by his stage name Ness, is a talented American rapper and battle MC from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He rose to prominence through his participation in Diddy’s MTV reality show, Making the Band 2, from 2002 to 2004.

Ness’s journey continued as he signed with Bad Boy Records. He earned songwriting credits on Diddy’s 2006 album, Press Play. During his time on MTB2, Ness became known for his intense on-camera battle rap with Da Band member, Jae Millz. This battle became a notable example of a cappella battle rap in mainstream media at the time.

Ness later returned to his battle rap roots in 2010. He would captivate audiences with his stage presence, writing skills, and fast-paced flows unique to the vibrant Philadelphia rap scene.

Since then, he has showcased his talent on some of the biggest platforms in the battle rap culture, including King of the Dot, URL, Rare Breed Entertainment, Don’t Flop, Gates of the Garden, and Grind Time Now.

New Ventures

Throughout his career, Ness has faced jokes about his infamous task of fetching a cheesecake for Diddy during his Making the Band days. However, in a remarkable turn of events, Ness has redefined the cheesecake joke by launching “Ness Philadelphia Cheesecake”, a brand that has gained popularity within the music industry and hip-hop culture. This demonstrates his ingenuity and ability to transform a seemingly negative experience into a successful venture.

Since the Covid 19 days, Ness has been on a relentless mission to redefine himself. I have personally witnessed his remarkable rebranding journey. I have had the privilege of building a strong relationship with Ness, to the extent that he would visit my studio to write his rounds for upcoming battles, create reference tracks, or simply hang out and relax.

One thing that Ness consistently does is break the algorithm on Instagram every week. Since 2019, he has been dropping unique freestyle videos that go viral, showcasing his impressive rhyme schemes and captivating the attention of fans worldwide.

There was a time when the Philadelphia hip-hop industry felt that Ness was being overlooked or even blackballed. However, as of 2024, there is no denying the mainstream and underground presence of “Lew,” also known as the “Lockness Monster.” Ness’s relentless branding efforts and innovative business models have paved new lanes for him and garnered the attention and recognition he deserves.

Checkout The Latest Music From Ness

#GetSOM via @swag100 & click here to celebrate Hip-Hop, lifestyle and culture.

Justina Valentine Wilds Out With Jadakiss On Hot New Single “Mo’ Money”

on March 3, 2024 Artist Music TenthLetterMedia add comment

JUSTINA VALENTINE known world wide for role on the hit improv show Wild N’ Out is making it known she has bars! The singer, television host & actor has the collective ear of Hip-Hop with a new release “Mo Money” that features Hip-Hop icon Jadakiss.

Ever since her early release “Candy Land” featuring Fetty Wap, Justina has been able to hold her own lyrically. While not adhering to the labels that come with female emcees, it allows her to focus her talent and energy on tracks with some of the game’s prominent male counterparts.

Justina Valentine feat. Jadakiss- Mo’ Money

We got to chop it up with Justina on the Fleet DJs Celebrity Corner a few weeks ago. We listened to the song and knew right away that she has bars indeed! This was definitely the right track for Jada to hop on and a dope collaboration.

Valentine has both a style and uniqueness that is a different take from the evolving female presence in Hip-Hop. It’s dope to see music make it’s way back to the front of all this noise out here currently.

Check out the official music video for “Mo’ Money with Justina Valentine feat. Jadakiss down below! Let us know what you think of the track in the comments down there as well!

They say more money more problems/I’ll say I’ll deal with the pain.
Justina Valentine

STAY CONNECTED

All streaming platforms

instagram.com/justinavalentine

tiktok.com/justinavalentine

facebook.com/justinamusik

youtube.com/justinavalentine

twitter.com/justinamusic

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

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)