Cocktails and Conversations: Key To Tha City | @key_tothacity

on September 23, 2021 Artist Cocktails and Conversations Da Butterfly Effect Straight Official Magazine add comment

#GetSOM via @mzkim2012

Unlocking The Man Behind Key to tha City

Hi my beautiful faces. Welcome to my Cocktails and Conversations Corner. Grab your favorite beverage and enjoy. The rules here are simple…have an open mind and remember, IT’S FIVE O’CLOCK somewhere.

I had a dream of me prospering with what I am doing…it’s music…I know I am on to something…
Key to tha City

At first glance you are not sure what to think of Key. He is quiet, very polite and not your typical artist. Most of the time he is wearing shades and a smile. I remember meeting him at the Fleet DJs Conference in Jacksonville this summer. He was sitting alone but I could tell he was taking in everything around him. Who knew a smart comment regarding my android phone would be the start of a great conversation. Despite jokes about how his iPhone was better than my Samsung, Key quickly gained my attention.

As a Memphis native with Mississippi roots, this now California artist, was working on a master plan. With his grandfather exposing him to the music industry at an early age, Key knew he had big shoes to fill. From there he went on to explain how stepping away from the game for a minute to get his thoughts and business together, and that he did. The conversation was very in depth because he is a young man that believes in his skills and don’t mind sharing his story.

Now, here we are in September, only a few months after the conference. I watched this quiet, dedicated, and humble artist take his rightful place in the music world. As he kept his fans updated on Instagram(key_tothacity) about what he was up to, my anticipation grew. Based off previous conversation it was only a matter of time when a single would drop. To my surprise one day I saw his new music was out. After a game of phone tag the date was set. The thought of the Cocktails and Conversations w/ Key to tha City had me excited.

I caught up with him after a fun filled day at Chuck E Cheese with his daughter for her pre birthday celebration. Cheering and an announcer could be heard in the background. Guess who was watching the Raider’s game? From my understanding the game was very intense. Raiders vs Ravens went into overtime. When he is not watching the Oakland Raiders, he enjoy supporting the Falcons and Auburn Tigers. After the game ended he was working on his Cognac and I a glass of wine.

Apparently my iPhone friend had been very busy. His new single “Get it Jumpin” is now on Spotify. He has a show coming up on Sept 25th in Cali. Key decided to focus on his music career full time. Giving more attention to his family and passion, is most important. As tough and stressful as things can be he remains humble and vow to have fun. Key plans to release the video his next single BEFORE the music drop. As the conversation came to an end he promised to make sure his fans receive the best of KEY TO THA CITY.

Get It Jumpin – Key to tha City

My take on Key to tha City is simple, he is going places. True enough he has lived in various cities but he is good at adapting while staying true to his skills. “Get it Jumpin” showcase the Memphis sound for sure. My favorite thing about him is, he always get to know artist before they work together. This is very important to him because he takes his work seriously. In the eyes of Key to tha City “having that personal relationship will help understand the music by the artist.”

Cheers my beautiful faces. Enjoy every moment life has to offer, most importantly drink responsibly. Be sure to stop by weekly for another round of Cocktails and Conversations. In the mean time connect with me on almost all social media platforms. Don’t be shy. Monday and Wednesday 8 – 10pm cst. https://www.power99damixx.com/ Download the Power99DAMIXX app. Facebook: Power99DAMIXX & Soulful Social Butterfly. Instagram: Mzkim2012

Prosecutors Rest Their Case Against R. Kelly After Weeks Of Testimony

on September 22, 2021 La Bodega 1 comment

#GetSOM via @djgojabean

Federal prosecutors have rested their case against R. KELLY following 19 days of allegations of sexual abuse and testimony from more than 40 witnesses about how the singer allegedly controlled the minute details of his accusers’ everyday lives. According to YAHOO! NEWS, since opening statements on AUGUST 18th, prosecutors have presented accusers, former employees and other witnesses who testified in BROOKLYN’s federal courthouse about how KELLY controlled the lives of his young “girlfriends,” who often lived with him.

The accusers, whose experiences with KELLY spanned the course of about 25 years until his JULY 2019 arrest, described how the singer pressured them into sex. One woman said KELLY sexually assaulted her just moments after meeting her backstage after a concert. Others described being “trained” in sex and living with the singer over the course of several years. KELLY also gave several of them herpes, they testified, without disclosing that he had the incurable disease.

KELLY has pleaded not guilty to all the charges against him. His defense attorneys are expected to begin presenting their own witnesses for about two days, before each team of lawyers presents their closing arguments.

As the trial heads toward its conclusion, the singer faces legal risk elsewhere. Federal and state-level prosecutors in CHICAGO each have pending cases against KELLY involving similar allegations, as does a district attorney’s office in MINNESOTA.

To read the full story from INSIDER, click here.

@StraightOfficialMag #LaBodgea #RKelly

The T-Quest Show: Ny’Aira Collins

on September 21, 2021 The T-Quest Show add comment

#GetSOM via @TQuestGLM

THE T-QUEST SHOW: NY’AIRA COLLINS is an R&B sensation who’s been in the game for a while and not stopping any time soon. Her voice is something special. I could listen to her sing all day! There’s many singers who can sing but Ny’Aira can SANG! She started singing professionally at age 6. Like many of us, she started singing in church, getting the hang of performing in front of people, learning how to work a mic, found her voice and what speaks to her. What sealed the deal was the movie Double Platinum featuring Diana Ross & Brandy. It was then that she realized singing is what she wants to do.

Your vibe attracts your tribe
Ny’Aira Collins

I had so much fun interviewing Ny’Aira Collins on The T-Quest Show and learning about her many accolades in the industry. Being a college graduate and having a background in audio production has really helped her polish her sound. Ny’Aira is another ultimate singer, blazing the stages singing original as well as LIVE cover songs. She’s out here doing what she loves and doing it well but she couldn’t do anything without her team Royal Court.

Ny’Aira Collins is currently pushing three singles entitled, “H.A.B.”(Hot Air Balloon), “Tyme” and “Thinkin'” which is streaming on all digital platforms right now! Watch the music video for “Thinkin'” below. Please support Ny’Aira by checking out her website https://www.nyairacollins.com/ where you can keep up with the latest, hear her music, book her for performances & more. Make sure you follow her on IG @NyairaCollins

CLOSING REMARKS

This is Ms. Gotta Love Me herself T-Quest & you’ve just been Questified! Show love by commenting, sharing & following me on social media @TQuestGLM Email me topics to discuss & QUESTions you may have. To learn more about the one & only T-Quest or to hear about certain topics in-depth please download my “T-Quest” app in your google play store & your app store. On the app, you’ll be able to hear Gotta Love me Radio 24/7. Visit my website www.GottaLoveMeWorld.com to buy any merchandise as well as my music.

Check out more of T-Quest articles here: https://www.straightofficial.com/?s=the+t-quest+show

Straight Official Magazine Sit Down: Lil Bae | @lilbae33

on September 21, 2021 Artist Interviews Music Music Videos Straight Official Straight Official Magazine Uncategorized add comment

#GetSOM via @djspins

Recently we got the chance to catch up with North Carolina recording artist Lil Bae who is heating & shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

DJ -What is your Stage Name? Please tell us where you’re from and what first got you interested in the entertainment industry?

LB – Lil Bae, from Fort Mill, SC. The entertainment industry interested me when I saw the different people you get to connect with. From producers, dancers, videographers, DJ’s, entrepreneurs and most importantly fans. Music is my passion, my life, but to meet people who can relate and love it is amazing to me.

DJ- Who and/or what inspires you to create?

LB- My inspiration is my life and experiences. I want my music to be a reflection of myself so my fans can actually relate. I make music with substance behind it. I just keep up with what is trending.

DJ- How would you describe your sound?

LB- My sound is simply authentic. Old school rap with a new Flava. My sound is who I am. My cadence separates me from most female artists out there. My sound resonates with the soul. It is refreshing.

DJ- What is your creative process like?

LB- My creative process is as follows every time; I start off working out early in the day to clear my head. I listen to different types of beats until one really grabs my attention. I write the hook and build from there. Once I’ve gotten the first verse and the hook down pack delivery-wise, I record a demo. Depending on the mood and the way “Life” goes I will finish it that day or come back to it in a week. Then it’s studio time.

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

LB- I would love to collaborate with Missy Elliott and Soulja Boy. I would be able to attack both generations at one time and the synergy would be amazing.

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

LB- If I could open up for any artist it would be Missy Elliot, of course. Also, I would say Lil Baby. The messages behind his music are deeper than most rappers and I respect that.

DJ- What is one message you would give to your supporters?

LB- “Find yourself and stay true to you. Every day is a test. Focus on passing that and just go with the flow of life. Remember, always smile.”

DJ- What is the most useless talent you have?

LB- My most useless talent would be playing the recorder. I learned how in elementary school and can really play but never do.

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

LB- If I was not doing music, I would be creating a skincare line for sensitive skin baddies like myself. Being the best esthetician and a BOMB MOM! Eventually, I would find the music.

DJ-Who are some artists you admire and why?

LB- Missy Elliott. She remained authentic. She was different coming out at that time and she accepted that. Her sound, style, creativity and poise. Ciara. She is a killer dancer. The way she markets her music by incorporating a dance with it has made her level up.

DJ- What is the best advice you’ve been given?

LB- “The only thing that matters is now. You cannot change your past, you are not in your future, but in this moment you have the ability to create everything you want. So focus.” I have been following this advice since the beginning of the year and I can say this last quarter has been great to me.

Find yourself and stay true to you. Everyday is a test. Focus on passing that and just go with the flow of life. Remember, always smile.
Lil Bae

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

LB- I would change everything about the industry. Artist development mainly. That would clear up the roster for ready independents.

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

LB- I will continue to make relatable, longevity music. Connecting with my fans and building myself as an artist. In the next year, I will be the artist everyone wants to meet. I will not only be busy and booked with shows and interviews, but I will also be speaking to the masses about mental health. Being the voice of the people in the music industry.

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

LB- @lil.ba33 on all platforms. Also linktr.ee/Lil.Bae will take you to any Social Media Link you need.

Check out Lil Bae’s latest single “Bad Bitch” below

The Lit Lounge Tour Is Coming To A City Near You!

on September 20, 2021 Journalist Bae Mocha Mondays Straight Official Magazine Uncategorized add comment

#GetSOM via @mochathemack

September 24-26, 2021 – The Lit Lounge Tour is set to kick off this weekend in Jacksonville, FL. In previous years, the tour was primarily focused on showcasing music, however this year it will include a one night only comedy show, club after parties, the introduction of Victor George Vodka, and an overall impactful message to share.

Theodore “Wildman Teddy T” Taylor, on-air personality and founder of “A Nu Foundation Trust”, has partnered with several Florida Fleet DJ’s at radio stations, nightclubs, and businesses to put on a successful tour. It will travel through various cities with the intention of educating people on the use of medical marijuana for health benefits and positive economic influence in communities. All of this will also be integrated in the upcoming docu-series, “Walk on the Wildside”.

We’ve been getting high from marijuana for years. Now we are creating a positive purpose for this healing instrument, so that people can help in its preservation. Let’s stay healthy to get wealthy.”
Wildman Teddy T

The Lit Lounge Tour launched back in March of 2020 in Plantation, FL and traveled to Miami Gardens with a pop up event. You can relive the latest tour dates here. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about medical marijuana from a variety of marijuana vendors and enthusiasts. The tour is set to stop in Jacksonville this Friday at Eva’s Sports Bar and Grill (736 A Philip Randolph Blvd). Additional tour dates will be released soon for cities like Gainesville, Tallahassee, Miami, and many more.

If interested, you can bring the Lit Lounge Tour to your city by contacting A Nu Foundation Trust at 775-773-8133. Click here to buy and/or register to perform.

‘Friday’ Star And Comedian AJ Johnson Dies at 55

on September 20, 2021 Entertainment News Straight Official Magazine add comment

AJ JOHNSON has died. Confirming multiple news reports, comedian ANTHONY JOHNSON has passed away. He was 55 years old.

Johnson, who was widely renowned for his memorable role as Eazel in the cult classic Friday, had 50 film and television show credits under his belt. The actor and comedian found success in the 1990’s doing stand up and was featured in the 90’s Hip-Hop classic film House Party.

TMZ reports that they were told by one of Johnson’s relatives that he was found lifeless in a store and was rushed to a hospital in Los Angeles, where he was pronounced dead. No cause of death has been announced.

We here at Straight Official Magazine are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of such a great talent. We offer our condolences to his family, friends and fans.

London Rapper Cherryibee Debuts New Hit Single “Did Me So Rotten” | @cherryibee_1

on September 14, 2021 Artist Music R&B Straight Official Magazine add comment

#GetSOM via @essince

UK recording artist CHERRYIBEE (pronounced “Cherry-bee”) released her debut single “Did Me So Rotten”. The single shares her experiences of navigating success through jealousy and being held back by the ones who should be supportive.

Cherryibee first began her career as a child by writing songs and eventually gained attention by performing at school assemblies and wherever she could. She found her voice combining styles of influential artists like Lil Kim, Movado, and Gucci Mane with the wide variety of music she grew up on from country to soul, and reggae.

Her debut single “Did Me So Rotten” (produced by Slayer Tracks and engineered by Startrex) was released through her Cherrybee Entertainment imprint and is available now digitally worldwide.

Listen to the Cherryibee’s single “Did Me So Rotten” at https://fanlink.to/DidMeSoRotten and follow @cherryibee_1 on Instagram.

#NewMixtape @DJEDubMixtapes x @SamHoody x @PhillyBlocks – B-tch I’m From Louisville

on September 14, 2021 Mixtapes Music Straight Official Magazine add comment

#GetSOM via @essince

DJ E-Dub, Sam Hoody & Philly Blocks come together to bring us this mixtape featuring Louisville’s top artists. The lineup on this project was put together nicely and sheds light on the Louisville area’s talent.

Let’s Talk King of Kentucky | @est.gee

on September 13, 2021 Artist Entertainment Mocha Mondays Straight Official Straight Official Magazine add comment

If I ain’t a young shiner then what do you call that?”
@est.gee

#GetSOM via @mochathemack

Earlier this year the “Bigger Than Life or Death” rapper was cited countless times as one of 2021’s breakout rap stars, and rightfully so. Signed to Yo Gotti’s CMG, EST Gee is credited doing features with the best of them – Lil Baby, Moneybagg Yo, Future, Lil Durk, and 42 Dugg just to name a few. People love EST Gee because he raps about some pretty dark topics, but in a way that truly embodies modern musicality.

We ain’t got no pro team in Louisville, this a brick town”
EST Gee

Now, most people who think of Louisville, Kentucky think of bourbon, racehorses, and Muhammad Ali. Lately in the 20’s, Jack Harlow and now EST Gee, have been running the Bluegrass State. Admittedly, I was not a fan at first, but I rooted for him anyway because we’re originally from the same city. It caught my attention listening to his collab with Moneybagg, which is one of my favorites in the game right now, but still I wasn’t convinced he was the star that Yo Gotti was making him out to be. I recently got a chance to really review the album and honestly, I was upset with myself for sleeping on him for so long. I did some further research and had a fan girl moment when I found out that his birthday is the day before mine – he’s automatically my favorite.

On a more serious note, the “young shiner” was described as being “apathetic” towards his fast rising career. I won’t quote it as a zodiac attribute, because like he said in a Pitchfork interview, “He’s seen it all and thought of it all.” When you get the chance to travel as much as he has, you realize that everywhere is really the same – some places are just flashier or more hood or country than the next. EST Gee has the potential to make it all the way. He used to play football before his rap career took off and let’s just say “he’s good at everything he does.”

TenthLetterMedia & Straight Official presents the #SaturdaySpotlight

on September 13, 2021 Saturday Spotlight Straight Official Magazine TenthLetterMedia add comment

Celebrating Hip-Hop, Lifestyle & Culture Straight Official Magazine & TenthLetterMedia presents the #SaturdaySpotlight

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia

For nearly a decade, Straight Official Magazine has been the source for your daily dose of hip-hop, lifestyle and culture. Serving as the home publication for the Worldwide Fleet DJ’s, SOMag has worked to both keep you up-to-date on the latest news in music and entertainment and breaking new artists. When TenthLetterMedia joined the team we began to work to discover the independent talent nationwide. Saturdays were ours as we connected like Voltron to bring readers a dope feature known as the #SaturdaySpotlight.

Perfect TIming

It was during that time the city of Indianapolis was on fire, with a plethora of artists that were making hip-hop more than just a weekend thing. The landscape became more diverse and at the same time, more business minded to change narratives and for some artists like Indianapolis rapper TRAJIK to reach unbelievable heights. The first artist that I covered early in my career that ended up gracing the cover of the city’s largest newspaper as the face of this movement is a testament to the change that he spoke to me about way back in the day. Before he snagged roles as an actor in Empire & Proven Innocent, we featured him in the magazine on the heels of his Welcome To Traptown album release in 2019.

From there, it was all gas and no brakes…

Within the same year, another major talent from Indianapolis began to make noise as producer Playbwoi Tha Great was signed to Bad Azz Music and we were right there with a feature about his dope visual for his single “It’s Clear To Me” from his RockSolidForever 2 album release. In ten years of music journalism, I have sat down with some of my favorite artists, but there’s something about doing so with not only hometown artists, but with friends that makes these features hit different.

Like when we got to chop it up with the homie Matthew “M-80” Markoff on the heels of his comeback to the mic with his “Done Done It” release and the amazing interview we had with the one and only T-Quest, we have had a niche for bringing you the brightest and most talented acts from across the land.

And we intend to keep a good thing going…

*Left: Matthew “M-80” Markoff, Right: T-Quest*

DON’T CALL IT A COMEBACK…

In coming back from a situation that was out of our control, we are formally introducing the weekend feature back to the masses! This time around, we are looking for more than just artists. We’re looking for business owners, models, producers, comedians… whoever you are we want to shine the light on you!! We’re looking to discover more dope artists like T. Harris, Dead Silence, Illy Octane & Ro Wilson.

*From Left: Dead Silence, Right Illy Octane*

*Ro Wilson (Photo Cred: TenthLetterMedia)*

As always, we thank you for rocking with Straight Official Magazine & TenthLetterMedia as we celebrate Hip-Hop, lifestyle and culture! If you are interested in being featured in the #SaturdaySpotlight then check out the flyer down below for more information. Stay tuned in for more dope content and remember, it’s the #DueSeason so #GetSOM!!!

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