ewarded with longevity, Juicy J, is a living legend. While reinforcing his legacy, this Trap architect has discovered the way to remain relevant. He is dope. Recently, The Juiceman blessed the game and dropped his mixtape, Highly Intoxicated. The introductory track, “Highly Intoxicated,” finds an animated J with an intricate flow. The Crazy Mike-beat is reminiscent of classic Three 6. Do …

rooklyn’s Blakeley continues to reinforce her artistic integrity. The amped whimsy of her latest single, “Caffeine & Nicotine,” from the upcoming EP of the same name, invites one to join her on a subversive journey; convention’s monotony is confronted.  Her emphatic voice effectively melds with the rigorous  instrumentation. Sound becomes an adrenaline-drenched heart pumped by Blakeley’s vocal ability. Stay tuned; Blakely has teamed up …

o many adjectives. Rapsody is raw. Rapsody is an MC. Rapsody is Hip-Hop. Recently, the North Carolina narrator dropped her anticipated endeavor,  Laila’s Wisdom.  Named for her Big Mama — from whom she learned many valuable lessons — the album serves as an effort in excellence. It demonstrates that an  innate essence will always trump a fleeting notoriety. From amorous to angst, …

nvested in empowerment, Lachi, sings her truth. The self-reliant, singer/songwriter personifies progress. Her talent has compelled several record labels to distribute her music. Esteemed outlets like Oprah Radio and PBS Radio have lauded Lachi’s inherent artistry. Whether it’s EDM, Pop, Dubstep, or Dance this New York City-based chanteuse is known to deliver.  The latest single, “Living A Lie,” showcases a tremendously tender …

xpression, an additional appendage for Michael P Cullen, is demonstrated through his art. Outfitted with the Soul Searchers, the Aussie artist is submerged in sound; he’s living the dream.   Live at Lazybones,  the most recent EP added to the collective’s creative canon, dropped back in July. With “Black Coffee and Cigarettes” banal retrospect tortures a beautifully morose Michael. Restrained percussion, pained keys, …

ushing waxed pictures, V Don, makes words become movies; he scores tracks.  “Bipolar,” the recent collab which features the verbal dexterity of Dave East is menacing. Art amplified by an amalgamation of action, “Bipolar,” fuses stripped keys with an emphatic drum. It reverberates against ostentatious and harrowing sixteens. Dave East is diligent. The Harlem native recently dropped this unattached single, “Bipolar.” …

rom Party of 5IVE to their present duo of, The Peanut Gallery, Orlando and Flee Jones remain determined. The New Jersey natives have tasked themselves to accentuate Hip-Hop’s authenticity. The duo’s creative collision will soon be displayed in their debut album, Tales From The Basement.  The leadoff single, “Deep Thoughts,” showcases Orlando’s unorthodox artistry. For more from The Peanut Gallery stay tuned. …

nfluenced by Golden lyricism, Jesse “Jay Hunna” Bland, turns to his pen for cathartic release. A child of Chicago, he has lived the have-not existence. Following the 2015, unprovoked death of his cousin, Sandra Bland, music was one of the things which helped to assuage his restless soul. On September 8, his debut album, Better Days  was released. The “Good Ol’ Music” visual displays …

ip-Hop is ever-evolving.  Redman demonstrates its progression. While wielding voraciously lyrical sixteens, he along with respected turntablist, JAYCEEOH, melt wax. Together, they are 1000volts.  “Monster,” the dubstep mingling of Firepower Records labelmates, 1000volts and Datsik, melds frenetic energy with simplistic storytelling. It’s electric!   Niki GatewoodI write.

ersonified artistry is Lupita Nyong’o. The Francesco Carrozzini-directed, “MaNyfaCedGod” visual, is heightened by the harmonies of  James Blake. Measured movements become lyrical expression.  An effortless pen chronicles the emotional evolution of the 13- time platinum MC. Damned good job, Jay Z; thanks for 4:44.   Niki GatewoodI write.

Photo Credit: Emma Swann agic is real.  Jorja Smith possesses an incredibly contemporary voice that nudges at a ’90’s nostalgia . Project 11, her introductory EP further proves this point. With “On My Mind,” an incredible assist from production virtuoso, Preditah, succinctly pushes the track to the sublime. You’re welcome.   Niki GatewoodI write.

ll gold everything! Can it be?  GoldLink continues to prove that Hip-Hop is alive and well.  Teaming up with the vocal savant, Jazmine Sullivan, and the sonically enigmatic, KAYTRANADA, the trio came together and created the refreshing, “Meditation.” GoldLink challenges his competitors. The visual captures a compelling night where lust challenges life. Recently, his debut studio album, At What Cost, has earned a …

usic is the universal language in which both Troyton Rami and Rupee are fluent. Throughout their respective careers, these two students of sound have attained a plethora of accolades. Earlier this year, Rami — half of Black Shadow,  the Grammy award-winning production duo — teamed up with the esteemed Rupee to create the summer smash, “Tipsy.”  To emphasize their creative dexterity, the single’s welcomed …

eeming with dreamers, New York City is delicious as any red apple and explosive as Hughes’  “Harlem.” Magnetized by creativity — creators, like Matteo Scher — are drawn to the steel exterior of Gotham City. Here, while yearning to stand out, they seek solace in their art. Possessing a nostalgic, and a contemporary quality to his music, Scher, is the consummate singer-songwriter. …

rayers and action used to confront challenges, Lecrae, pours life into his lyricism. Following the success of “Blessings,” the Grammy-Award winning wordsmith recently dropped, “I’ll Find You.” He contemplates how doubt threatens to swallow one into its consuming abyss. The single may appear on the creative entrepreneur’s upcoming eighth studio album. On the track, the Houston MC is assisted by Tori Kelly.  Wading …

xploring the dichotomy of being a responsible father, and being aware of dire decisions, Avery LR, knows the importance of his actions. Earlier this year — the Utah transplant who now calls Maryland home — dropped his mixtape, Surviving. The expansive endeavor chronicles everything from encountering hubris-filled humans to reflecting over racial wrongs. A son of Hip-Hop, the Murderland MC …

ubmission coincides with power. Within the J.A.C.K.-directed visual for “Hard To Love,” Kacy Hill, uses her cultivated perspective of self to connect. Subjected to bondage and graffitti, her body, a sponge, eloquently absorbs the provocative degradation. Under Kanye West’s devout leadership, this G.O.O.D. music protégée is combining her cognizant awareness of her sexuality with her innate creativity. On June 30, her album,  Like A …

earching for love, only to discover self, “Lord Knows,” is the lyrical manifestation of attaining self-worth. Amid a soothing timber, producer NaCion, creates the fluid backdrop to which Chris Rivers and Dyce Payne complete the reflective ditty. Faith challenged by façades, the journey to dispel doubt is long, but ultimately it may be a rewarding one. Delorean — the début album, into which The Dragon …

hroughout  the visual for, “Wrong,” smudged expressions aboud.  A$AP Rocky and A$AP Ferg confess for their respective infidelities. Wrapped in white, these poignant apologies are an attempt to atone for their romantic transgressions.  Delivered upon holy ground, their altar-call sentiment is reinforced by contrite lyricism. Stay tuned, Cozy Tapes Vol. 2.,  the anticipated sophomore album from A$AP Mob, is slated to drop in 2017.   Niki GatewoodI write.

hrouded in sadness,  the opening visual from the Mathew Cullen-directed, “First Time” displays a mournful Ellie Goulding. Met with the charred remains of Kygo, the English chanteuse contemplates over his amazingly precarious life. Enriched by an ability to arouse fire, Kygo is seen learning to control and create with the mysterious flames. Consumed by frustration, and unrelenting rage, he momentarily loses control and is …

s art personified, Teyana Taylor, continues to captivate the masses. In her latest single, “Drippin,” the GOOD entertainer employs a carnal and a controlled crooning. Following the earned success from her introductory LP, VII, and sizzling appearance in Kaye’s “Fade,” TT is seemingly unstoppable. As Migos come onto the scene, a meandering desire explodes against the Harmony beat. Rhymes about that good, and the better things …

Photo Credit: Roarin Lion nrelenting artistry exudes from Elijah Hosein. Motivated by the classic showmanship of Michael Jackson, and the contemporary allure of Bruno Mars, the “Below The Moon” singer / songwriter is determined to make the world respect his voice. Tribulation, talent, and triumph continue to caress his perspective. Shaped by Brooklyn streets, the Flatbush native is working to ensure …

Photo Credit: Johnson Haynes ubmerged in sound, Big Brown, grew up with music intertwined within his DNA. A son of Jazz, it was only natural that the Harlem-born individual would grow to become an adept MC. Last month, on April 20, the Alabama-bred artist dropped his lit ‘tape SSB Chronicles, Vol. 2. From that endeavor, the Rainy-directed “ActiVisa” visual is emerging as a fan-favorite. It …

he big homie Oscar Wilde believes, “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness.” In seeming subscription to that belief, a recent remix for Lil Uzi Vert’s “XO Tour Llif3” appeared on the internet. Here homage is paid to a Golden Era giant. Should Hip-Hop be applauded for contemporary artist’s willingness to celebrate classic lyricism? Is …

elebrated for his classic lyricism and his contemporary voice, Big Boi, is a curator of cool. His penned perspective continues to inspire and motivate millions of listeners. As he preps for his third solo album,  Boomiverse, the Epic-signee continues to craft hits. The lauded lyricist’s second single, “Kill Jill” features both Killer Mike and Jeezy. Boomiverse — a cornucopia of creativity — drops on June 16. …

apable of emphatically melding hubris with humility, Killa Kyleon, is always busy. The Houston MC is working to ensure that Hip-Hop respects his art. With the recent release of his conceptual endeavor —Lorraine Motel — the Team Run It cappo uses his voice to speak on the embedded complexities which African-Americans encounter. “Killing Over Jays,” the initial visual from this recent release delves into the …

hink of a body wrapped in warmth, think  of eased creativity, think Sunny & Gabe! When Gabe Niles and Sunny Moonshine come together art happens. A snippet of “Vacay”—their recent release—was nationally featured in a Coke commercial. Arousing a tropic air, Gabe worked flawlessly to create an enticing track filled with horns and drums. Together with Sunny’s controlled, yet light vocals, the …

ropelled by the sentient artistry of producer Tae Beast, “Lord Don’t Fail Me Now” depicts an ominous ode from Ash Riser. Within this Left Brain feature, twisted sixteens tantalize and taunt the listener. The Zenith Division visual captures Ash’s angst-driven ride to cement his creative success. Ghosts — Riser’s debut album, into which he’s invested his life — will drop on July 7, 2017.   Niki GatewoodI write.

n instantaneous vibe helped to solidify fate.  Cocooned by a silky  soulfulness, “My Space Baby,” is an effortless gem by DJ Premier and Cherub. TTT (To The Top) — Premiere’s personal imprint — recently dropped the worldwide release. Preemo’s timeless, and talented touch, has enriched many of Cherub’s musical memories. When the opportunity presented itself to work with one of their creative heros, the Nashville …

ith the “eye of the tiger and the heart of a lion,” Runway Richy is on a journey to share his message. Shaped by an East Atlanta perspective, the emerging artist was pleased to discover that Gucci Mane hopped on his latest track, “Switchin Sides.” Wrapped with sincerity, Runway Richy explains, “it’s a huge honor for me working with him.” The FKi Sauce production is a …

or the pursuit of music an emerging love was interrupted. Eli Wesse, understands the sacrifice demanded to realize one’s artistic aspirations. Born to Congolese parents,  on “Small Talk,” the Michigan musician amplifies his thoughts of an abandoned relationship. Prodded by his passion, he left New York City and returned to the Midwest. Since returning home he’s been fully focused on elevating his art. This …

Photo By: Annie Lesser ack in 2013, Ben Thatcher and Mike Kerr reconnected and formed, Royal Blood. Since then the British blokes have gone on to earn international acclaim. Their unabashed creativity, combined with their innate talent, are factors which helped to secure their upcoming headlining U.S. tour. Although, the stateside tour doesn’t start until June, they are still working to satisfy …

n Friday (May 19), The God Box — the anticipated album from David Banner — will be available for public consumption. Throughout this artistic endeavor Banner challenges the listener. With the introductory song, “Magnolia,” he astutely utilizes personified metaphors to tell the tale of an enslaved and dehumanized people. Both CeeLo and Raheem Devaughn appear on the poignant piece. Lead by the Mississippi MC, this talented trio kicks …

uckle up and get ready for a smooth trip through time. With the crisp cadence of Emilia Cataldo — and nostalgic, yet refreshing production of Craig Levy — New York’s Nehedar propels its latest release, Hello Abyss to a bubbling, cult acclaim. Traveling from the ’60’s to the present, Hello Abyss, is a contemplative account of being in love and everything in between. Beginning with …

ow is the time to enjoy a delicious treat. Last month on April 25, Australian import — Michael P Cullen & the Soul Searchers — dropped the ever-palpitating “Black Dog.” The emphatic dynamo is now prepping for the release of the upcoming project, Live at Lazybones.  This narrative account is wrought with intense attention to detail. Here creativity and consciousness collide against a tattered …

ntimately acquainted with strife, Avery LR , uses lyrics encased in pain to provoke feeling. A childhood where love was interrupted by death and distance, the emerging artist uses his growing perspective as a man to share his personal insight. From his recent visual for “Never Surrender,” he raps, “…Yeah, I believe in God, but do God believe in me…;” conflicted thoughts assaulted …

ombie is prepping for the release of its upcoming album, Super Cell. The anticipated project is set to drop next month. Three previous EP’s have helped to garner success for this New York City-based rapcore crew. Formed back in 2010, the efforts of lyricist Atom Crews, string punishers Robert Fishkin, “Cadillac” Mike Martabano, Roy Galvan, and — percussion perfectionist — …

rom financially humble beginnings to reinforcing a priceless soul, E-40 personifies longevity. Back in the mid-80’s, 40 Water smoothly transitioned from being Click’ed up to solely standing steady atop his ten toes. A witty wordplay, in conjunction with a keen business acumen, has allowed the Magazine vet the ability to attain both professional and personal success. As he moves past millions, this Golden …

escending from The Heights, Dark, continues to use his penned prowess to earn Hip-Hop’s respect. By maintaining his integrity, and sharing his perspective, the former Team Hot MC is fully focused on serving humbled hubris. With this unique remix designed for the masses, “Outlet” showcases Dark and includes a feature from Manolo Rose. United on the Vinylz-produced track, the New York narrators push …

compelling comfort bookends Phases by BONOMO.  The February release, beautifully showcases the cohesive creativity of the band’s core members, Andrew Renfroe and Adam Bonomo. These Brooklyn-based musicians conjure sheer magic. Sans any incantations,  to please the public the duo relies upon its inherent artistry. Opening with familiar Folk sensibilities, “Home” astutely foreshadows the album’s trajectory. The mix of compelling chords from Andrew with Adam’s soothing voice proves …

es, “oh Baby,” you already know the hook!  Fred The Godson taps Jaquáe for the assist. The result, a Les Visual-directed video which combines simplistic cinematic shots with intricate bars. The public continues to show its support, although Gordo — the anticipated mixtape from Fred — has yet to receive a concrete release date. The Bronx wordsmith proves that an astute penmanship and easy delivery …

ast June, Fame School dropped Get Well Soon.  From that ‘tape, on “Bag,” the Brooklyn duo is aided by the provocative podcaster, Taxstone. Through the creative lens of director, Gee-Lock, the accompanying visual is a methodical depiction that represents the Fool’s Gold fam. Here, Telli and Slim present their collective psyche. Unadulterated  artistry ensues; do enjoy!   Niki GatewoodI write.

hicago’s creative connoisseur , iLL Brown, is focused on the future. He remains driven by a relentless repertoire of artistic integrity; it includes producing, emceeing, and engineering.  And now, the HawkLyfe Records CEO, is prepping for the fall 2017 release of his EP,  Don’t Forget The Dope.  The project possesses unreleased songs from an array of Hip-Hop artists. On “Friends” the TeamBackPack producer unites with …

rt that provokes discussion is essential. With comfortable lyricism that compels the public, Chance The Rapper, is in the midst of erecting his legacy. His third mixtape, Coloring Book — which dropped last May– continues to earn critical acclaim.  Yesterday, (Feb. 6), via Facebook Live, the innovative MC debuted the video for “Same Drugs.” A cursory listen may lead one to believe that Chance is merely reminiscing …

y spitting classic lyricism that’s reinforced with the profound depth to remain contemporary, Raekwon, will always remain relevant. On March 24, The Chef is scheduled to drop his seventh solo album, The Wild.  To bolster the anticipation, the John Colombo-directed visual for “This Is What It Comes Too” recently debuted. The WU wordsmith is in supreme form. As the supple Xtreme …