Rap Archives - Straight Official Magazine

Straight Official Sit Downs: Tona

on November 8, 2024 Artist Interviews Straight Official Sit Downs add comment

TONA sat down with our own DJ Pynk Dyamond of Straight Official Magazine affiliated with The World Wide Fleet DJs Coalition to discuss his new track he is pushing “OWTS” On With The Show which is now on all platforms and released his video for the track.

Tona, also known as Big Tona, is a prominent Canadian Hip-Hop artist from Toronto. Over the years, he has built a reputation for his thoughtful lyricism and distinct sound. Known for his ability to blend diverse styles while staying true to the roots, his recent projects showcase his versatility. For example, his 2024 album H.O.T.C. (Henny On The Congregation), which features the single “Fame,” produced by Y-Not. He also released “Sun Is Out” earlier in 2024 in collaboration with Sayzee.

PUTTING IN THE WORK

Tona, the JUNO Award-winning Canadian recording artist has been active with a series of releases and projects over recent years. In 2023, he introduced a new single called “L.E.S. (Lower East Side),” produced by Burd & Keyz, which followed his 2022 18-track album GE20. That album featured collaborations with notable artists like Kardinal Offishall, Shad, and others, focusing on themes of resilience and optimism amidst challenging circumstances.

In addition to his solo work, Tona has collaborated with various artists, including Kardinal Offishall and Shad. His 2022 album GE20 was well-received and includes collaborations with Jimmy Yitty and Rochester, among others. This album dealt with optimistic thoughts amid difficult circumstances, reflecting Tona’s introspective approach to music.

TAP IN WITH TONA

For his upcoming projects into 2025, while specific details are still emerging, Tona has continued to make strides in the Canadian Hip-Hop scene with his work often reflecting powerful narratives and high-profile partnerships. You can find more of his work on platforms like Bandcamp and Spotify.

Check out the full one-on-one with Tona & Pynk Dyamond down below!

#GetSOM via @djpynkdyamond & click here for more emerging artists!

Straight Official Sit Downs: The Rebirth of Hip-Hop Vol.2 | Lyrics @iamlyrics

on November 8, 2024 Artist Interviews Straight Official Sit Downs add comment

LYRICS is an aspiring Hip-Hop artist that stopped by our headquarters for this edition of Straight Official Sit Downs. This episode spotlights Lyrics and the

Redman Set To Release “Muddy Waters 2”

on October 13, 2024 Artist Music News TenthLetterMedia add comment

(Photo Cred: Scott Dudelson | Credit: Getty Images) THE FUNK DOC IS BACK REDMAN, the iconic New Jersey rapper, is finally gearing up to release Muddy Waters 2,

Verse Of The Month | Flaujae- Guns Down

on September 29, 2024 Artist Verse Of The Month (VOTM) add comment

Photo Cred: Atlanta Journal-Constitution FLAU'JAE the young sensational artist who dazzled on America's Got Talent is kicking off a new feature from Straight Official. Our

Shif-T Da Nightchild Shares The Story Of Her Journey

on August 14, 2024 Artist Interviews add comment

We recently caught up with D.C native Shif-T Da Nightchild to talk about his latest single as well as getting a chance to know the

Hip-Hop Turns The Corner at 51

on August 12, 2024 News TenthLetterMedia add comment

HIP-HOP TURNS 51: In 2024, Hip-Hop celebrates its 51st anniversary, marking over five decades of cultural and musical innovation. On August 11, 1973, when DJ Kool Herc threw a back-to-school party at 1520 Sedgwick Avenue in the Bronx. Here, Herc introduced his revolutionary “breakbeat” technique, laying the groundwork for what would become Hip-Hop.

Humble Beginnings: The 70’s

As the 1970s unfolded, pioneers like Grandmaster Flash, Afrika Bambaataa, and the Furious Five began shaping the genre. Introducing the world to 4 elements (emceeing, DJing, breakdancing, and graffiti). These four pillars defined the early culture, turning Hip-Hop into a powerful form of self-expression for the youth of marginalized communities.

Breaking The Glass Ceiling: The 80’s

The 1980s marked a critical period of expansion as Hip-Hop entered the mainstream. Acts like Run-D.M.C., LL Cool J, and Public Enemy pushed the boundaries of the genre, bringing it to larger audiences and exploring themes of social justice, inequality, and empowerment. This decade also saw the advent of Hip-Hop’s commercial success, with record labels recognizing its potential and investing in its growth.

The Golden Age: The 90’s

The 1990s are often considered Hip-Hop’s golden age, with artists like Tupac Shakur, The Notorious B.I.G., Nas, and Wu-Tang Clan delivering albums that remain iconic. This era not only marked the geographic spread of Hip-Hop, but also the rise of West Coast rap and Southern Hip-Hop. This would diversify the sound and stories being told.

The New Millennium: 2000’s

As Hip-Hop crossed into the new millennium, it continued to evolve, influencing global pop culture in ways unimaginable in its early days. Artists like Jay-Z, Eminem, and Kanye West became household names, while the genre’s influence spread to fashion, language, and lifestyle.

HIP-HOP AT 51

In its 51st year, Hip-Hop stands as the most popular and influential genre in the world. Its history is a testament to its power to adapt, evolve, and inspire. From the South Bronx to global domination, Hip-Hop’s journey is a narrative of resilience, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of expression. As it looks to the future, the genre continues to be a voice for change, innovation, and cultural unity.