Category Archives: Hot Off the Press

Mitchy Slick x Sir Veterano “Keep Gettin Money” Official Video

Mitchy Slick and Sir Veterano team up again for new music. “Keep Gettin Money” follows the heels of their last hit “Dago Nights.” Futuristic funk looped with heavy basslines steers Mitchy’s uncut and raw lyrical deliverance. Watch the video and take heed of the message.

Twitter @ogmitchyslick

XXL Releases 2023 Freshman Cover

Rob49 Selected as an Official 2023 XXL Freshman Cover Artist

Rob49 is having an unstoppable year, kicking off the summer, releasing his album, 4 God II, alongaide being named as one of XXL’s Freshman Cover artists. The New Orleans star has been taking over the rap game with hard-hitting records and features with some of the top acts, including Lil Durk, Roddy Rich, Trippie Redd, Birdman and more.

Rob49 graces the cover alongside a host of burgeoning talent including – Glorilla, Finesse2Tymes, Lola Brooke, Sleazy World Go, Luh Tyler, Tia Corine, 2Rare, Real Boston Richey, DC Da Don, Fridayy and Central Cee.

Will Smith resigns from the Academy

The actor says he’s heartbroken for depriving others of their opportunity to be celebrated and will accept all consequences for slapping Chris Rock at the awards show.

Will Smith accepts the best actor Oscar at the Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on March 27. Courtesy of Blaine Ohigashi / A.M.P.A.S.

In the wake of slapping Chris Rock onstage at the Oscars, Will Smith said Friday that he is resigning from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

In a statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter, Smith said he was heartbroken and would accept all consequences for his conduct during Sunday’s ceremony.

“My actions at the 94th Academy Awards presentation were shocking, painful, and inexcusable. The list of those I have hurt is long and includes Chris, his family, many of my dear friends and loved ones, all those in attendance, and global audiences at home,” Smith said. “I betrayed the trust of the Academy. I deprived other nominees and winners of their opportunity to celebrate and be celebrated for their extraordinary work. I am heartbroken. I want to put the focus back on those who deserve attention for their achievements and allow the Academy to get back to the incredible work it does to support creativity and artistry in film.”

VIA: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com

Rising Rap Star Rob49 Hosts a Star-Studded Vulture Weekend Experience in His Hometown of New Orleans

Rising Rap Star Rob49 Hosts a Star-Studded Vulture Weekend Experience in His Hometown of New Orleans
G Herbo, Nardo Wick, Fredo Bang, Yungeen Ace and More Help the Louisiana Artist Celebrate the 2nd Annual Affair Alongside Release of Rob49’s “4 God II”

Photo Courtesy of Theorry Communications
📸: VEEZUS

New Orleans, LA – June 23, 2023 – Rob49, the renowned rap star hailing from New Orleans, brought a wave of excitement to his hometown with a series of captivating events held from June 15th to 17th for fans of all ages. This celebration marked the 2nd annual Vulture Weekend Experience, also in conjunction with the highly anticipated release of his latest musical masterpiece, “4 God II”. The weekend-long series of events serve as a testament to Rob49’s deep-rooted love for the city of New Orleans and his fans throughout.

The festivities kicked off last Thursday, June 15th, with a pop-up fan experience in partnership with iconic New Orleans restaurant – Cafe Du Monde. Rob49 and the Cate Du Monde food truck collaborated with New Orleans Recreation Development (NORD) to invite kids attending the youth summer camp at Milne Rec Center out to meet Rob49 and receive complimentary beignets. The energy at the fan experience was palpable as the young fans sang along to their favorite tracks while meeting the hometown star.

The following day, on Friday, June 16th, Rob49 demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the youth of the city by organizing his annual celebrity basketball game at McDonogh 35 high school, the rapper’s alma mater. Celebrities, musicians, influencers, and more joined forces to face off in a friendly yet competitive match up for the Vulture Weekend trophy. The Choppa City team, led by Rob49, took on the Vultures, led by emerging artist Neno Calvin, for a double overtime game naming Rob49 and the Choppa City team as this year’s champions. Highlights include Gillie Da Kings’ game winning free throws, as well as a dedicated performance by Rowdy Rebel on the Vultures team. Fans were able to see their favorite talent play including Fredo Bang, Gillie Da King, Yungeen Ace, Sleazy World Go, Rowdy Rebel, BenDaDonnn, Landstrip Chip, Zaire Rouege, FCG Heem, Loe Shimmy, Shoebox Baby, Larry Morrow and more.

The weekend culminated with a spectacular concert on Saturday, June 17th. Rob49 took over the Fillmore NOLA, performing fan favorites and new music off his recently released “4God II” album. He was joined by a lineup including G Herbo, Nardo Wick, Sleazy World Go, Treety, Anti Da Menace, and more. Fans danced and rapped along to the tracks while completely immersing themselves into the infectious rhythm of Rob49’s music. The burgeoning bayou rapper kept fans overjoyed, shocking them with surprise guests, including Florida rap star Yungeen Ace and viral act Fresh X Reckless. The concert showcased the city’s rich culture and the unity that Rob’s music can bring to his hometown.

Reflecting on the success of the weekend’s events, Rob49 expressed his gratitude to his fans and the New Orleans community. “This celebration was about more than just the music,” he said. “It was an opportunity to give back and uplift the place that has shaped me as an artist and as a person. I am humbled by the support and love I receive from my hometown.” Closing out the weekend, New Orleans Mayor, LaToya Cantrell, honored Rob49’s Vulture Weekend with an official proclamation from the city.

Rob49’s album, “4God II,” is now available on all major streaming platforms. Its release marks a significant milestone in his career, showcasing his growth as an artist and his unwavering dedication to create music that touches his fans on a personal level.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Andrea Hamilton
Theory Communications
Andrea@TheoryComm.com

Rob49 – 4God II
Retail: https://rob49.lnk.to/4GODIIAlbum
Amazon: https://rob49.lnk.to/4GODIIAlbum/amazon
Apple Music: https://rob49.lnk.to/4GODIIAlbum/applemusic
Audiomack: https://rob49.lnk.to/4GODIIAlbum/audiomack
Deezer: https://rob49.lnk.to/4GODIIAlbum/deezer
iTunes: https://rob49.lnk.to/4GODIIAlbum/itunes
Pandora: https://rob49.lnk.to/4GODIIAlbum/pandora
SoundCloud: https://rob49.lnk.to/4GODIIAlbum/soundcloud
Spotify: https://rob49.lnk.to/4GODIIAlbum/spotify
Tidal: https://rob49.lnk.to/4GODIIAlbum/tidal
YouTube Music: https://rob49.lnk.to/4GODIIAlbum/youtubemusic

Photos By Veezus

Janiya Announces The Release Of “Show Me More (Control)”

Janiya announces the release of her new single “Show Me More (Control).” The songstress delivers a romantic ballad over contemporary R&B melodies that emanate a feel-good vibe. Janiya’s tale is one of a woman who wants to love body to body and soul to soul. Stream the single and connect below.

Connect with Janiya

https://instagram.com/__janiya._?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Rhyme Assassin (UK) Prepares For “Rhyme Apostles” Single Ft. Hip Hop Legends – Interview

United Kingdom Hip Hop artist Rhyme Assassin tells all about his upcoming, major single release dropping everywhere on April 3rd, 2023. “Rhyme Apostles” features a handful of Hip Hop legacies including Crooked I, Craig G, Reks, Ruste Juxx, K Solo, Chino XL, Keith Murray, Chino XL, Canibus, AFRO, and Antlive Boombap with an intro by Jadakiss and Deep Voice on production. Just in time for Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary, Rhyme Assassin offers Hip Hop heads a record set to push the elements, essence, and culture of Hip Hop back to the forefront; when emcee’s did their part of moving the crowd. Rhyme Assassin talks in-depth about the single, bringing legacies together for this global collaboration, his contributions to Hip Hop, and more.

MJ: Before we jump into your upcoming release of “Rhyme Apostles” let everyone know who you are and where you’re from.

Rhyme Assassin: My name is Tichaona Brian Monera. I was born and raised in Zimbabwe. I migrated to the United Kingdom to explore opportunities for further education and personal development. An important part of that was pursuing a career in music. This is something that I have already been doing in Zimbabwe where I gained popularity with hip-hop in the early 90s. Freestyling with my homies after school, I was able to hone my craft to become a recognizable voice on the Zimbabwe music scene.  These were formative moments in my music career. These encounters earned me the name Rhyme Assassin which has become my official MCEE name. The name Rhyme Assassin resonates with the skillful poetic lyrical expression of the music and the excellence of execution of my craft. 

MJ: As a Hip Hop artist from the UK, tell us about the Hip Hop scene over there. 

Rhyme Assassin: Hip-hop has always had a firm grip on the UK music scene with a lot of drill dominating. Hip-hop artists like Stormzy have become household names, generating a huge following worldwide. My estimation is that the UK is on the brink of becoming a hip-hop powerhouse globally. There are many upcoming hip-hop artists….

MJ: What led you to begin a career in rap and lead a lifestyle true to Hip Hop culture?

Rhyme Assassin: The greatest influencers that kickstarted my rap career are the likes of all-time greats such as KRS ONE, Run DMC & Big Daddy Kane, BIG, and 2 PAC. I grew up listening to their music on cassettes and vinyl. Because of my experiences and encounters with these hip-hop moguls, I embrace the hip-hop culture and started living out and expressing this in my lyrical content. My inspiration to write was primarily from Canibus and Krs One. I can even recall the first day I listened to Gangstarr – Moment of truth, Dead Prez – Let’s get free and DMX – It’s dark and hell is hot. Those were the early days when hip-hop was not playing much on Zimbabwe radio. Our exposure to hip-hop was mainly from folks coming from overseas and bringing cassette tapes back home. I would use my pocket money to rent out hip-hop tapes for a couple of days or more so that I can just listen to the latest hip-hop beats.

MJ: Ok, let’s jump into your new single which will be available for download and purchase on April 3rd, 2023. How were you able to link with all the powerhouses and legends? Talk about the thought process of “Rhyme Apostles” to hand-picking features, to the production, and to the final canvas.

Rhyme Assassin: The initial idea was for Rhyme Apostles to have 4 artists. Later, drawing inspiration from the Bible, the thought of the 12 apostles of Jesus dawned on my mind and this became the womb that gave birth to Rhyme Assassin’s 12 apostles on the track. The new single is based on an idea that had been in for quite a while. My vision was to bring together some of the greatest lyricists and recognizable names in hip-hop. Being on the same record with the likes of Crooked I Canibus, Craig G, Keith Murray and a host of other renowned hip-hop legends is an incredible personal triumph. 

Achieving this was monumental. The journey was not a straightforward one. It was long and challenging, but an enjoyable one. The one thing that made it worthwhile is the caliber of people that I was targeting. These were real hip-hop heads, with a genuine love for true hip-hop culture. I was truly humbled by these guys’ acceptance and willingness to embrace me and work with me to bring my vision to fruition.

Every single one of them exhibited high levels of professionalism with such amazing humility. Each demonstrated a love and a passion to collaborate with emcees with roots in Africa. The emcees that made it on the record I those that reached out to and they were magnanimous enough to accept the invitation. 

Shout out to those emcees who believed in me and were keen to be part of the project but could not make the financial commitment in time and were unable to be featured. There will always be scope to do collaborative projects with them in the near future. Another noteworthy artist who made an enormous contribution to this project is Deep Voice, a UK producer who created the best used in the debut single. He created the beat some seven years ago along with other beats that I subsequently used. This particular beat was archived until now and it is just the right beat for the project. The bear will be mixed and mastered by yet another creative, P2doah, a Zimbabwean-based producer. We are also currently working on the video for the song.

MJ: What are you hoping audiences take away from the single? 

Rhyme Assassin: The single greatest desired outcome for this project is a greater realization but both artists and music lovers of the incredible power of collaborative music ventures across the industry. The single, Rhyme Apostles, is a clear and powerful demonstration of the synergy resulting from such collaboration. My wish for this single is that it will be timeless in its appeal and not just for a season.

MJ: It’s evident with the single, you are on a mission to conserve the authenticity of Hip Hop and push it to the forefront of music. Can you elaborate on that? 

Rhyme Assassin: I am a firm believer in the need for the conservation of the truest essence of Hip hop culture expressed through lyricism. The caliber of emcees on the track have mastered this art and is an inspiration to me as I climb to my place of significance in the game. 

My conviction is that hip-hop culture has a powerful potential to bring about societal and cultural cohesion globally. In that sense, the single has an apostolic assignment – to bring about a fresh crop of hip-hop artists whose focus is beyond their individual musical domains to champion a movement that will produce a generation of like-minded people. The talents and skill sets of the participating emcees are as diverse as their fingerprints are. It is this diversity that I value and celebrates the most in this project. The creative lyricism and different execution styles of the art make this project unequaled by any in hip-hop circles and that is what thrills me.

Connect with Rhyme Assassin

http://www.instagram.com/rhymeassassin

https://twitter.com/rhymeassasin?s=09

https://youtube.com/user/Nameless263

https://www.facebook.com/Rhymeassassin

Royal The CEO Takes Over Music & Entertainment With PR Services

Renee Mickens aka “Royal the CEO”  serves as CEO of her company called, “Royal Hustler Company” which is an entertainment proprietor that provides event planning, networking, and hosting for the urban classy habitués, marketing/promotions, and public relations services under her Royal Hustler Promotions Co brand. 

Royal has over 10 years of experience in marketing & promotions with magazines, indie music artists, fashion brands & fashion designers, podcast & radio shows, etc., as clientele.

Royal Hustler Company was featured in the hit YouTube web series, “Rodent, The Urban Soap Opera” episode 2 and Royal has been featured in Grinderzzz Magazine, SapphirEmerald Magazine, Respect My Royalty Blog by Lady Nicole and Incline Magazine, Respect My Royalty Podcast, I.A.S Live Music Review Publication and TV Show, 950 Lounge Podcast,  Scrilla Guerillaz Magazine and Violators Unlimited Radio Podcast and recently a co-host on Da Kontrol Room Podcast. Royal is also a published curvy/plus-size model and participates in the NYC Sexy Curvy Divas.

Royal currently serves as CEO of Royal Hustler Promotions, Director of Hip Hop Blvd Awards, and booking agent for various podcasts and magazines. Royal  Hustler Company was recently awarded 2022 Best of The Bronx Public Relations firm. 

More about Royal the CEO

Royal is a licensed Insurance Broker in NY, NJ, and PA and carries a Master’s Degree in Communications from NYIT. She is also a mom who enjoys watching movies, relaxing, traveling, and reading books

Connect on Instagram @royal.hustler.company

Indie Star Mari Delivers “The Cooldown” Single

A vibing R&B & Hip Hop nuptial drives Mari’s lyrical performance in his new single “The Cooldown.” The record is from his latest EP ‘Giving Summer.’ Immediately after pressing play audiences will learn that Mari is not here to glorify violence, street life, fast cars, or even faster women. Rather, his confidence and pride sway through his music with gripping content. Stream “The Cooldown” to experience Mari’s incomparable style and flow.

https://instagram.com/_marigramm?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Indie Hip Hop Artist Maine The Medicine Talks ‘S.O.A. (Son Of Alice)’ Album

Established, reputable indie Hip Hop artist Maine The Medicine gives an in-depth interview about his latest album ‘S.O.A. (Son Of Alice).’ The album is dedicated to his late mother. Maine shares high emotions creating the album, making his mother proud, the secret weapon for making timeless gems, and more.

MJ: I see you and Leadgeon are still going strong, talk a little bit about that chemistry.

Maine: Well with Leadgeon, that’s 30-year chemistry and brotherhood. I don’t have to tell him what kind of beats I need, he already knows. Now lyrically we always push each other with the pen. For us, that inner competition will always be there.

MJ: One thing I find when it comes to your albums it’s difficult to pinpoint one or even two favorite records. All your albums are theme-based and flow like a story from beginning to end, with no skipping. However, I do want to touch on “Pour Liquor” as that seems to hit hard and hit home with many fans and listeners.

Maine: Yes, “Pour Liquor” seems to be a popular one with the fans. I wrote that hook during the Covid,  because of all the friends and family I lost that year. I hadn’t gotten a chance to write a verse to it until the night of my dad’s funeral. I was already halfway through the album, but I needed to pay homage to my father. As for the feature, that’s my cousin Khali Hustle from the Bay Area. He, like myself, lost a few people, and almost lost his own life to an attempted murderer. So, I’m grateful he’s still here to jump on this record with me.

MJ: I want to take a moment to pull on heartstrings and ask how difficult it was to create “Momma” and the array of emotions you must feel hearing that song being played.

Maine: Yes, that song was hard to make, and at times was hard to listen to. My mom was my everything, and that void will never be filled. She was a single mom, worked 2 jobs, and tried her best to provide for my sister and me. She was a big fan of my music, even though she said I curse too much. But she would love to watch my videos on YouTube. So, I just wanted to honor her with this album, and make her proud. Maybe one day I can compose myself enough to perform it.

MJ: Both as a fan and professional in the music industry, I must say how refreshing it is to experience your growth as a man and artist with each album you release. There’s a manner in which you invite the world into your personal life experiences that allows us to authentically embrace and grip your emotions. Your use of lyricism and wordplay flows effortlessly over boom-bap cadences. What is it about Maine The Medicine that stands out from other artists?

Maine: I just try to be the best version of myself. I move off of the emotion and the vibe of the beat. Sure I have topics that I want to address,  but instead of forcing I wait for the right track to bring it out of me. I also know as an artist I can always get better. I can always make my sword sharper. I never convince myself that I made it because that can go to your head. I want to continue to keep that hunger for more.

MJ: Take us behind the scenes of the album ‘S.O.A.’  Let us in from the inspiration to creation to the final product. I know the album is buzzing with a social media frenzy and fans are listening on repeat with genuine compassion.

Maine: The creative part was fun and therapeutic for me. I mean, of course, it was some pressure because this album is dedicated to my mom. But at the same time, that’s what helped it flow. When I was listening to the tracks, I was thinking who could’ve made this dope? There are so many dope artists I know that I hadn’t worked with yet, so I wanted to link with them on this album. Plus I got the few staples that are always on my albums like Leadgeon, Suspect,  and Tysoul. But I listened to this album about a hundred times to make sure it gave me the same feeling as the first time. I can honestly say it most certainly did.

MJ: What is your secret to being able to stay afloat and create timeless music? In an era where music seems to fall into an abyss of one-hit wonders and what’s trending, there must be some challenges.

Maine: I make music on how I feel and the vibe the beat gives me. I put my all into my music, and I’m not afraid of being vulnerable about my life. I think artists fail when they force a hit or try to sound like what’s hot. The best thing to do is to let the music come naturally. In the process sometimes you end up with a hit that you didn’t know was going to be a hit.

MJ: I’m not sure what can top ‘S.O.A.’ but can you give us some inside scoop on other projects or endeavors you’re working on?

Maine: It’s going to be really hard to top ‘S.O.A.’ but I’m not really sure that I want to. Because it’s such a special album, I wouldn’t mind if this is my “Illmatic.” No album I do after this will ever be as special as this one. As for future projects, I will stick to the same formula I have been using and let the mood and the beat take me on a journey. I have a few projects coming up, like the Mercy Gang EP and an EP titled ‘Iron Horse Talk.’ Leadgeon and I have an EP as well. But for now, I’m just pushing the ‘S.O.A.’ album, and the tee shirt line we’re working on with Electric Frog Designs.

MJ: As we wrap up, take this time to let the world and fans know anything else about the album or Maine The Medicine

Maine: I want people to know that I put a lot of time and emotion into this album. I’m super honored about the response I’m getting off ‘S.O.A.’  The love and support make me feel like I succeeded in making my mama proud. The thing I want people to know about Maine is I love being creative. I’m going to always try to give you something different.

Katherine Swain Releases Compelling Vocals In “Changes” (Single)

Katherine Swain has taken the R&B charts by storm and her latest single is no exception. “Changes” features Hip Hop artist Rhymrcka with production by Bookowski for Fantom of the Beat.

A backdrop of 70’s soul and instrumental blends sways with Pam Grier vibes. Swain’s emotive vocals narrate a relative experience of broken promises, without actions to follow. Not willing to continue on this roller coaster, Swaine is preparing to make her own changes. Rhyrmrcka’s verse comes in strong to back Swain up as her ballad fades out, yet resonates. Stream “Changes’ and connect below.

Connect with Katherine Swain 

http://www.Facebook.com/thekswain
http://www.Instagram.com/thekswain
thekswainfantomusic@gmail.com

“Changes” Credits
Writers: Katherine Swain, Fantom of the Beat, Delmar Coward, Mobutu Evans aka Bookowski 
 
Produced by Mobutu Evans aka Bookowski for Fantom of the beat.
Mixed by A kid named Cus.
Mastered by Tim Boyce.
Additional vocal production by Pleasant Russell