TenthLetterMedia Archives - Page 6 of 9 - Straight Official Magazine

Lizzo Under Fire, Faces Sexual Harassment Lawsuit

on August 3, 2023 Entertainment News TenthLetterMedia add comment

LIZZO is in the spotlight this week but for reasons not related to her musical talent. The Grammy award winning artist is facing sexual harassment charges filed this week. Three former dancers have come forward stating that Lizzo created a hostile work environment for over two years.

NPR reports the suit brought against Melissa Viviane Jefferson (professionally known as Lizzo) was filed at the Los Angeles County Superior Court. It paints a picture of an allegedly hostile work environment, in stark contrast to how she portrays herself to the public.

Widely known as the ambassador for body positivity, Lizzo faces serious accusations. They include both racial and religious harassment as well as false imprisonment.

WHAT’S BEING SAID

Arianna Davis, Crystal Williams and Noelle Rodriguez are the three former dancers that are seeking a jury trial against Lizzo. From May 2021 to May of 2023, the trio claims they endured horrible treatment from both the singer and her team.

A WCEL attorney stated “The stunning nature of how Lizzo and her management team treated their performers seems to go against everything she stands for publicly, while privately she weight-shames her dancers and demeans them in ways that are not only illegal but absolutely demoralizing.”

There has been no official statement from Lizzo or her team regarding these accusations. With nine total charges filed against her, it should be a matter of time before we hear a response about the situation.

WHAT’S YOUR TAKE?

While we await a reply from her camp, what are your thoughts on this situation? Let us know in the comments down below.

**#GetSOM via** @TenthLetterMedia & click here to see more entertainment news

CoChica Tequila Is Coming Soon

on July 11, 2023 Food & Beverages TenthLetterMedia add comment

WELCOME TO COCHICA

COCHICA Tequila is a new brand of tequila releasing soon. This unique brand has flavor and distinction. With 40% alcohol by volume, this new spirit will become a standard at bars, clubs and major events. CoChica has not only a distinct taste but a rich history that quenches anyone’s thirst to be free.

HISTORY OF COCHICA TEQUILA

Let me tell you a little about the origins of CoChica Tequila. For starters, the name CoChica comes from combining the words Costa and Chica. Costa Chica means “small coast” and refers to the region that has significant populations of Afro-Mexicans who settled in the area as escaped slaves.

However, most local stories about how Africans arrived in the area have to do with local shipwrecks, whether it was a slave ship or not. All tales end with the idea that they found freedom and refuge in the communities along the coast. Due to the isolation of the area and their desire to keep their freedom, little was written about their history.

Spanish landholders gave them protection in return for cheap labor, mostly tending cattle and curing leather, etc. Over time, there was significant interracial mixing among Europeans, indigenous people, and Africans.

MESSAGE FROM THE FOUNDER

“Today, we are highlighting this region and many regions alike throughout North America, South America, the Caribbean, and Europe. This rich heritage makes us all connected. With that in mind, we have developed a tequila that’s meant to be bold and full of flavor in celebration of who we are.”

“Don’t Hide Your Flavor”

FOLLOW ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Stay connected with CoChica Tequila on Instagram (@cochicatequila)

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

Ice-T & KRS-One Shoot On State of Hip-Hop

on July 6, 2023 Entertainment News TenthLetterMedia add comment

TWO LEGENDS SPEAK

ICE-T & KRS-ONE are not just legendary rap artists. They’re also gatekeepers to the genre. As Hip-Hop turns 50 this year, who better to speak on the culture and where the movement is going than these two pioneers. Ice is the original gangsta who helped to elevate Gangsta Rap and KRS would usher the Boom Bap style of rap.

Three days ago the Essence Festival of Culture took place in New Orleans. People Magazine reports that the two artists took time to speak with reporters. They spoke on the essence that is Hip-Hop, it’s meteroic rise and how it is undeniably the most influential genre of music.

KRS-One admitted to some foresight on the genre’s future saying “Fifty years ago, some of us knew this was going to happen, most of us did not know to the magnitude it would happen. But 50 years later proves that first of all, you can do anything with your mind and secondly, culture is probably the most magnificent strategy for human development known on the planet.”

Ice-T spoke on the longevity of the genre. He said, “When we started Hip-Hop was just a fad. It’s great. Hip-Hop has grey hairs. The beauty of it is that it’s still here, still flourishing and people still love it. Hip-Hop is a platform to express themselves and give insight to it’s listeners.

HAS HIP-HOP LOST IT’S WAY?

Over the course of fifty years, Hip-Hop has taken several turns that altered the appearance of the artform. It is a “young man’s game.” In that vein the consensus is whether or not that fact is making the genre lose it’s way. Ice-T was quoted saying, “I think people from my generation are really upset with what’s going on with the youngsters because every week somebody’s going to jail. People are dying off drugs, killing each other.”

He continued, “My generation, we lost Tupac, we lost Biggie and we got the memo. Everybody calmed down. We all figured this out. We [were] rapping to get out of the streets.”

KRS-One finds the transformation from Hip-Hop’s origins to the current state deplorable. “Real Hip-Hop is free. We ain’t with no corporations, none of that. Our culture was built from the center, now we’re billionaires. We don’t [care] what people think about us.”

WHAT’S YOUR TAKE?

Ice-T & KRS-One have spoken. How do you feel about the current state of Hip-Hop? Let us know in the comment section down below.

The 12th Annual Fleet DJs Music Conference

on June 25, 2023 Entertainment Events TenthLetterMedia add comment

The Fleet DJs Music Conference is an event that for over a decade has been the official open invite from the entertainment industry. Hosted by The Worldwide Fleet DJs, it is one of the major events that kicks off the start of the summer. This year the party takes place in Raleigh, North Carolina. As the chief editor of Straight Official Magazine, I attended last year’s conference and made it a point not to miss another one!

WHO ARE THE FLEET DJs?

A coalition of over 600 and counting, Fleet is a makeup of DJs, industry tastemakers, producers, models, bloggers and artists. This dynamic group is the top DJ coalition in the world, producing mixtapes that feature both major and independent artists. Fleet is well documented for for not only changing the industry, but the members that make up their amazing team.

The Fleet DJs Music Conference provides opportunities to artists and business owners through networking experiences unlike any other. Some events include a celebrity basketball game, a Sneaker Ball and a Panel Day. All attendees can also meet members of Fleet DJ’s as well. They can also gain knowledge from radio program directors and record label executives who will be in the building to assist artists in getting both seen and heard.

THIS YEAR’S ITINERARY

The itinerary for this year’s conference released this week and it will be UP! The event will last 4 days from July 20th to July 24th. Along with the DJ battles, private listening parties and music networking panels Fleet will be teaming with Hot 97.9 FM to provide both a festival & concert. This will allow the Fleet Artist Soundstage to be broadcast live in front of the city and the industry.

WHO TO EXPECT?

The guestlist continues to grow for the event! With more special guests slated to appear, this year’s music conference will be one that you will NOT want to miss!! You can take our word for it, or listen to Tisha Campbell tell you herself.

The Fleet DJs Music Conference is open to any and everyone. To be a part of the hottest event of the summer, log on to www.fleetdjs.com to register. Tickets are going fast so get yours today!

Klassik, CEO of the Fleet DJ’s welcoming all to the Fleet DJ’s Music Conference

Artists You Should Know | Jet Santiago

on June 24, 2023 Artist Interviews TenthLetterMedia add comment

MEET JET SANTIAGO

JET SANTIAGO is an quickly emerging artist holding down the culture of Hip-Hop from the nineteenth state. His approach is one that is built upon solid production and prominent lyrics. As a cultivator of the movement, Jetty realizes his position and what the genre means to him. “Hip-Hop is expression and perspective. It’s a way to tell stories from your point of view and let people into your view of life.”

There is always a driving force that makes a person commit to being an artist. For Jet, all it took was for him to attend a J. Cole concert in 2014. Speaking on the experience he recalls “It was his Forest Hills Drive Tour and I somehow snuck into the section right in front of the stage. Being able to hear and see one of my favorite artists up close gave me a different level of inspiration.”

Moments like that have inspired him to derive his own lane in his artistry. Jetty’s unique sound and delivery are not necessarily like your “run-of-the-mill” rappers. When asked about it, he replied “I had to develop my own flavor. I love all styles of music but I never compromise my sound to fit in with what’s hot at the moment.”

Music comes in waves. You can’t ride the wave. You have to be the wave.
Jet Santiago

BODY OF WORK

Since 2019 Jet has staked his claim in Hip-Hop. Releasing dope singles like New Age, Mood! and City of Dreams, he prepared us for his EP Le Jour de Anniversair. When asked about his creative process he replied, “I need to be inspired in order to create. I get inspiration from traveling, meeting new people and having new experiences. Once it’s there I lock in and won’t leave the studio until 5am.”

In 2020 Jet released his first album titled “Santiago Summers” to rave reviews. The 12 track project is full of gems but one in particular caught my attention. The track “Andy Bought A Basquiat” was not only #7 (my favorite number) but also my introduction to him as an artist. From the samples to the lyricism, Jetty flew high on this track!

The Hip-Hop scene in Indianapolis is growing. When I asked Jetty how he stands out amongst his peers, his response was brilliant. “I’m authentic, and original. I’m not promoting the destruction of our people, nor am I promoting killing each other in the streets or overly glorifying drugs. I have a message but I’m not preaching to you. With me you get a perfectionist who cares about music and the culture. You can party, laugh, cry, feel motivated and inspired when listening to my music.”

Jet Santiago (Video Cred: DJ Slikk’s Booth Action)

NEW MUSIC FROM JET

Jet’s upcoming release You Could’ve Been Here promises to be another impression of his craft and artistry. “It’s a culmination of my experiences over the previous 3 years since my last solo project. 10 songs with the vibe of the album being mostly upbeat. Not only my best project to date but the best rap album of the year.”

We shifted gears and spoke about the journey to get here. Jet spoke on the peaks and valleys to arrive here. “Being able to monetize what I create is a blessing. People actually invested in your art and waiting for you to drop music is the dopest thing in the world. I’ve gained people but also lost people. Overall it has shaped me and helped me grow as an artist and person. It’s all a part of the journey.”

I asked Jet what he would change about the industry from an artist’s standpoint. He spoke on an overhaul, “I would change the structure of deals. I’d make contracts easier to understand and fair to both sides. The wording in contracts however can trap an artist into more than they originally thought they signed up for.”

EDITOR’S PICK

I was fortunate to meet Jet way back when I was a blogger for this publication. Through another dope individual and friend, I listened to Jet and from jump knew this was something special. He alongside countless others from Indy would dominate my #SaturdaySpotlight & #NewMusicMondays features with great music.

YCBH is set to release on January 11th. I was able to hear a few tracks exclusively. No spoilers obviously, but my pick from what I heard was “Law of Attraction” which you can check out down below!

Read and be as knowledgeable as possible. The more you know, the more you will be able to talk about.
Jet Santiago

FOLLOW JET SANTIAGO ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Stay connected with Jet Santiago on Instagram (@jetsstayhigh)

“You Could’ve Been Here” to release soon on all music streaming platforms (Apple, Spotify, Tidal, YouTube)

**#GetSOM via** @TenthLetterMedia & click here to discover more Artists You Should Know

Harry Belafonte, Singer, Activist & Icon Dies at 96

on April 27, 2023 News TenthLetterMedia add comment

HARRY BELAFONTE, the beloved Caribbean singer that topped the charts and helped change the world has died. On Tuesday at his home in Manhattan’s Upper West Side, he passed alongside his wife. Forbes reports that according to his publicist Ken Sunshine, Belafonte succumbed to congestive heart failure. He was 96.

Harry Belafonte was more than just a performing artist. The Harlem native began his career singing in clubs. He would go on to become a champion for civil rights. His deep Jamaican roots enabled him to become the ambassador of Jamaica and it’s culture.

A LIFE WELL LIVED

Harry Belafonte was successful in all that he pursued in life. Well renowned for his iconic chant of “Day-O!” from The Banana Boat song, he took calypso music to unbelievable heights. In 1956 he released an album Calypso that would become the first LP from a solo artist to sell a million records.

Upon realizing he had a platform, he would follow in the footsteps of those who came before him. Belafonte became an activist for the Civil Rights Movement. “Out of Many, One People.” This Jamaican motto would become his mantra as up until his death, he was a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.

Harry Belafonte with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. & Coretta Scott-King (Photo Cred: Getty Images)

Straight Official Magazine offers our prayers and condolences to his family, fans and friends. In his memory, check out this touching tribute to the icon, activist and legend down below.

USA for Africa- Harry Belafonte Tribute

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

Magic Johnson Secures $6 Billion Deal

on April 14, 2023 News Sports TenthLetterMedia add comment

MAGIC JOHNSON is making news as the former Los Angeles Lakers legend continues to win off of the court. TMZ is reporting that he has teamed up with Josh Harris, owner of the Philadelphia 76ers to finalize a deal to acquire the Washington Commanders. The numbers on the deal were $6.05 billion.

Johnson adds another team to his gauntlet like he was Thanos going for Infinity Stones. The Commanders are the first non-L.A. based team he has vested in. Heavy.com reports that he has been adding to his portfolio of sports teams in recent years. These team include the Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Sparks & LAFC soccer teams.

Dan Snyder has agreed to sell the Washington Commanders for $6 billion to a group led by 76ers managing partner Josh Harris and including Magic Johnson, per @Sportico

It would be the highest price ever paid for a sports team. pic.twitter.com/xJDlSKSQyW
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) April 13, 2023

Photo Cred (Bleacher Report Twitter)

WILL MAGIC JOHNSON HELP RUN THINGS?

Former owner of the Commanders Dan Snyder agreed to sell the team Thursday. $6 billion dollars is a lot to invest in a team that hasn’t seen much of a turnaround since changing their name. Magic is involved in multiple business ventures to date. While it’s not certain, it would be interesting to see if Johnson would have any involvement in the day-to-day running of the team.

It’s a good look for Magic Johnson. Keep getting to the bag, sir!

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia & check out more of the site by clicking here.

SOMag Presents The Fleet Files With Fleet DJs: Thee Inkredible DJ Klasik | @djklasik504

on February 15, 2023 Interviews TenthLetterMedia The Fleet Files add comment

For over two decades, the fleet dj’s has grown from a small crew to a proficient coalition with over 500 members and counting. since 2001, THE WORLDWIDE FLEET DJ’s has changed the lives of both its members and the entertainment industry they have thrived in.

These are the members. These are Their Stories. THESE ARE “THE FLEET FILES”

Name: THEE INKREDIBLE DJ KLASIK

FLeet DJ Since: 2021

Location: New Orleans, Louisiana

Region: SOUTH REGION/Louisiana Fleet DJ’s

WHO IS THEE INKREDIBLE DJ KLASIK?

THEE INKREDIBLE DJ KLASIK is one of the newest members of The Worldwide Fleet DJs. Even before he joined the coalition in 2021, the concept of music and entertainment was instilled in him from a young age. Having a father who was also a DJ was a huge plus, and since the age of five he’s been connected to the culture.

I asked him what made him decide that this was the path you needed to take. He replied, “It’s been my passion since my teenage years. My love of music and rocking the crowd is what convinced me to become a DJ.” It’s why he is also known as “Your Neighborhood Vybe Pusha.”

Becoming a member of Fleet came by chance for Klasik. Rayshad Rogers was a student at JSU who would do weekly house parties as a hobby. He took his shot saying, “I saw that one of my friends from JSU was a member. I did my research on it and made the best decision in my DJ career so far.”

I’m Your Neighborhood Vybe Pusha.
THEE INKREDIBLE DJ KLASIK

GAME-CHANGING DECISION

COVID-19 was life-changing for all of us and in DJ Klasik’s case, the hobby would grow into something more. “I realized that life was extremely short and it was time to get into DJing. Get back into what I love.” It was then he founded 3Kingz Entertainment, LLC which was named after his mother’s three sons.

Klasik would join the Louisiana chapter of Fleet in 2021 and make moves quickly. After attending the annual Fleet DJs Music Conference last year, he would secure the Tre Boogie Rookie of the Year award. Soon after, he would be promoted to State Manager of the Louisiana chapter of Fleet!

Through Gumbeaux Radio on the Fleet Radio Network he rocks the airwaves with his blend of Hip-Hop and R&B. When I asked him how he finds inspiration to DJ, he spoke on his passion and partners in crime. “Besides my love of music there are a few DJs that inspire me. DJ Lil Walt, DJ P-Money and DJ Ill Nino to name a few.”

Consistency in key. Don’t give up when told ‘no’ because this industry is something you have to consistently work at.
THEE INKREDIBLE DJ KLASIK

IN CONCLUSION

I had to ask Klasik how he came up with his name. Most of the Fleet DJ’s have a unique story behind their name. “When I was in high school I was in an R&B group. Each of us had nicknames and mine was Klasik (Classic). I grew up in my grandparents house listening to classic Hip-Hop and R&B.”

He continued, “Now my name is THEE INKREDIBLE DJ KLASIK with the inkredible part for my favorite comic book character (The Incredible Hulk). I am THEE NEIGHBORHOOD VYBE PUSHA. That’s how they call the dope man (pusher man) and I provide the vybe for my audience.”

You can follow DJ Klasik on all social media platforms at @djklasik504. Tune in to the Fleet Radio Network to catch him on Wednesdays at 10pm EST and Sundays at 11pm EST on Gumbeaux Radio by downloading the Fleet DJ app.

I gave him the floor to shout out who he wanted. “Shout out to my wife Quinnel Rogers. Thank you for being my ongoing support system. To my team at Louisiana Fleet DJs, 3Kingz Entertainment LLC & my mama for birthing this greatness!”

**#GetSOM via** @TenthLetterMedia & check out more of The Fleet Files 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.

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!