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02.02.2022
Highbridge’s Lil Rekk Mixes Business With Pleasure In “Confetti” Video

Press Release

Highbridge’s Lil Rekk Mixes Business With Pleasure In “Confetti” Video

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2.1.2022

Video: Lil Rekk – “Confetti“

The Highbridge The Label Rapper Makes It Rain With His Heavy Stacks Of Cash In New Video From Recent Project, 1ONE

Critical Praise:

“Hailing from Philly, the 22-year-old is putting himself in a position to turn into the following breakout star from Highbridge The Label, with the help of his label mates A Boogie wit da Hoodie and Don Q. “ – No Jumper

“Lil Rekk is only getting more popular with each video that he drops and while he is sitting atop the New York underground scene at the moment it is only a matter of time until he is pushed into the mainstream’s focus.”- Lyrical Lemonade

The Video:

Crafting the ideal mix of soul-baring lyrics and heavy trap beats, Lil Rekk has his sights set on dominating 2022. Coming through with a flex-heavy visual, Rekk shares, “Confetti,” a new video for the opening track from his new mixtape, 1ONE. Filled with booming 808s and smooth flows, “Confetti” finds Rekk’s confidence shining through as he addresses his path to the top of the rap game. Rekk makes it known that he’s singularly focused on growing his bankroll, rapping: “I ain’t tryna make new friends, been on some business s***.”

The BTK Visuals-directed video sees Rekk and his crew pulling up to a club with their thick stacks of cash, ready to make it rain inside. Always bringing the heat with Chrome Hearts long-sleeve and Off-White hoodie, the North Philly riser waves his heavy namesake chain in the camera’s face, signifying that his name won’t be forgotten. “Confetti” arrives in the wake of the recent video for “Kiddin’ Me,” a highlight from Rekk’s recent project, 1ONE, available everywhere now via EMPIRE/Highbridge the Label.

Born and raised in North Philly, Rekk only started focusing on his musical career in 2019 after he watched one of his friends get into the rap game. Inspired by his friend’s hustle, Rekk found his own footing in the industry and released two full-length albums, The Ticket in 2019 and World Plus in 2021. The latter album has found mainstream success with Rekk’s “So So Dangerous” featuring Stunna Gambino & YXNG K.A receiving over 2.4 million views on YouTube. Now signed to Highbridge The Label and with 1ONE under his belt, Lil Rekk is ready to feed his ever growing fanbase with confident and relatable street music.

Watch “Confetti”: https://youtu.be/M1PuT_N2rkM

Buy/Stream 1ONE: https://music.empi.re/1one

1ONE tracklist:

Confetti
Get Money
Game Time
PTSD
Acting Strange
Ooters
So Bipolar
Dog S***
Kiddin’ Me
Outta Control
Double Tap ft. 42 Dugg
Time

https://youtu.be/M1PuT_N2rkM

Please contact Michelle or T ‘Keyah for more info.

The Background:

Born Tyreke Curry in Philadelphia, PA, Lil Rekk was forced to grow up fast. The absence of his father and childhood trauma introduced him to the harsh realities of life. Fortunately, Hip-Hop gave Lil Rekk an outlet to express himself. Music would eventually become his salvation. He began calling himself Lil Rekk and released his debut mixtape The Graduation, in 2018. The 20-year-old artist who is signed with Platinum Recording Artist A-Boogie Wit Da Hoodie’s Highbridge The Label went on to release an increasingly impressive series of singles, remixes, and albums which accumulated over 5M streams in the process. Influenced by modern Hip-Hop and R&B sounds, his music inspirations include Drake, Lil Durk, Boogie and Lil Baby. His upcoming project will showcase the sound of an artist confidently stepping into the spotlight. With his ever growing catalog of compelling tracks, it’s clear that Lil Rekk is on the journey to stardom.

Underground King Pouya Announces 2/11 Mixtape, Shares Thoughtful New Single

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2.1.2022

Pouya Announces dirt/hurt/pain/, His Next Mixtape, Out February 11

Pouya Keeps His Pockets Fat On Lead Single “Never Enough” Featuring Lu Baby

Featuring Five Thought-Provoking Tracks, The New Mixtape Finds The Independent Phenom Digging Even Deeper and Collaborating With Lu Baby, BAKER YA MAKER, and MAIKA

Critical Praise:

“He’s one of the most creative minds in music right now. His songs are always versatile and complex considering he fills them with a plethora of true stories and experiences, and his music videos never disappoint even slightly.” – Lyrical Lemonade

The Announcement:

One of Florida rap’s underground kings, Pouya has been keeping his hungry fans fed with versatile flows and heavy bass beats for the better part of a decade. Taking a step back to slow down and look within himself, the Miami native announces dirt/hurt/pain/, his next mixtape. The five-piece collection offers the perfect combination of Pouya’s dark and brooding lyrics mixed with upbeat melodies and booming 808’s, courtesy of Mikey The Magician, Rocci, and more. Featuring appearances from BAKER YA MAKER, Lu Baby, and MAIKA, dirt/hurt/pain/ arrives on February 11th, independently released, as always, by Pouya himself.

On lead single, “Never Enough,” Pouya links up with Lu Baby, a frequent collaborator who Pouya most recently brought on the lead single “Walk In” from Blood Was Never Thick As Water Tour this past fall. The track opens with Lu’s voice emulating the sound of a choir before Pouya comes in with his heavy bass beats. Providing an introspective look at what it currently feels like inside his own mind, Pouya raps, “They say to live in the present but at the moment I’m stressing / Too many pressure building situations I’ve been dealing with daily.”

Prior to his new mixtape announcement, Pouya released videos for “Stuck In Admiration” and “One Deep In The Fleetwood,” both off of his latest full-length album, Blood Was Never Thick As Water. Packed with mosh pit-ready bangers and introspective anthems alike, the project is a versatile effort, allowing Pouya to flex his range and introduce himself to new fans. The album was executive-produced by Pouya’s longtime collaborator and friend, Mikey The Magician, and features additional production from Rocci and Ivan Ramirez, amongst others.

An iconoclastic figure who’s collaborated with everyone from $uicideboy$ to Juicy J, Pouya grew a massive fanbase with SoundCloud singles, independent albums, and visceral live performances. The prolific artist has released four studio albums–Underground Underdog, FIVE FIVE, The South’s Got Something to Say, and Blood Was Never Thick As Water–along with multiple mixtapes with fellow Buffet Boys rappers like Fat Nick and Boobie Lootaveli. In July 2021, Pouya made a triumphant return to Rolling Loud, a festival at which he’s been a fixture since the very first event in 2015, firing up crowds with his vast catalog.

With dirt/hurt/pain/, Pouya bares his soul, fearlessly determined to show the world that he should never be underestimated. Stay tuned for more from Pouya as 2022 moves along.

Pre-order/Pre-save dirt/hurt/pain/: https://smarturl.it/DIRTHURTPAIN

Stream/Buy “Never Enough”: https://smarturl.it/pouyaneverenough

dirt/hurt/pain/ tracklist:

The Wages of Sin is Death
Serpent
all my days feel the same ft. BAKER YA MAKER
Never Enough ft. Lu Baby
Don’t Trip (promise me the world) ft. MAIKA

Please contact Michelle or Kevin for more info.

The Background:

To be fully independent as an artist in this day and age is to know your musical & creative worth; trusting the process and fully believing in your project. For Miami native Kevin Pouya, better known as Pouya, there’s been no hesitation as he’s climbed through the ranks from his humble Soundcloud beginnings to upwards of 3.9 million monthly Spotify listeners, a number that’s consistently growing.

With a devout fanbase and the constant itch to not only make great music, but the love of helping his community and giving back, Pouya is becoming a household name. Ever-expanding through genre defying beats, he’s leaving no stone left unturned as he creates music to be angry to, to get hyped to, to be sad to and every emotion in between – vocally exuding his story & becoming more and more relatable – building and unbreakable bond between him & his fans.

With the success of his previous albums, Underground Underdog, FIVE FIVE, The South’s Got Something to Say, and Blood Was Never Thick As Water alongside multiple mixtapes with underground veterans Fat Nick & Boobie Lootaveli, multiple international tours under his belt, and working with stars such as Juicy J, The Ying Yang Twins, J.I.D & more – this is truly just the beginning for the young rapper. Be on the lookout for yet another project from the Buffet Boys rapper – Pouya is a name you’ll be remembering.

Dro Kenji Turns Foes into Weepers in “FINDERS KEEPERS” Video

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2.1.2022

Video: Dro Kenji – “FINDERS KEEPERS” ft. Internet Money & Scorey

The Internet Money & MiraTouch Prodigy Teams with Syracuse Sensation Scorey for an Ethereal Adventure in the Latest Video from New WITH OR WITHOUT YOU Project

Critical Praise:

“South Carolina rock-infused rapper Dro Kenji has been on a tear since last August when he received a call from the Internet Money team. Releasing project after project, Kenji has been showcasing his impressive vocals and emotion-filled lyrics. With his newest project, “F*CK YOUR FEELINGS”, we see Kenji’s most confident and cohesive work.” – Earmilk

“Once he selects a beat, the melodies and lyrics flood over him like an epiphany. The result is raw and heart-sinking music, meant to be a guiding light to fans.” – Audiomack

The Video:

Fresh off the release of his full-length debut album, Dro Kenji continues to make wistful waves with his poignant pen and mellifluous melodies. After kicking off the weekend with the release of WITH OR WITHOUT YOU, Dro Kenji returns to keep the momentum rolling into the week with new visuals for the album’s trending single, “FINDERS KEEPERS.” Featuring glossy, dynamic Internet Money production courtesy of Nick Mira, Nash & Taz Taylor, and an infectious hook from Syracuse riser, Scorey. The single finds Dro Kenji navigating his newfound success while maneuvering past opponents to keep his lover close, as he croons, “Got a lot of evil energy, but it’s not mine/Got a lot of evil enemies, and that’s all fine/But you’re the only thing I worry ‘bout when I’m not high.”

The heady Logan Meis-directed visuals (Meis’ other credits include Trippie Redd, Trevor Daniel, Iann Dior) establish a sense of continuity with the otherworldly fantasy aesthetic seen in the video of the album’s lead single, “VANISH,” with each seemingly offering a peek into the longing, imaginative mind of Dro Kenji. As Kenji voices his diaristic serenade, he’s seen standing alone on a floating island of rock opposite that of his pursued interest as she nears, pulled into his orbit by the gravity of weighted emotions.

WITH OR WITHOUT YOU arrives after a banner year for the young artist, which saw him embark on his first headlining national tour, which he wrapped up with a performance at Rolling Loud California. 2021 also saw Kenji release two new mixtapes, including EAT YOUR HEART OUT, this past spring, featuring “KILL CUPID” ft. $NOT (12 million Spotify streams), which received an animated video, and the early summer’s F*CK YOUR FEELINGS, which saw the rapper flex and reflect over 16 tracks of expansive Internet Money production, and features highlights like “SUPERSTAR” and “TRANCE.”

Never one to rest on his laurels, Dro Kenji is only just starting his rise. Stay tuned for much more from the prolific artist as he continues his ascent to the highest echelons of the rap game.

Watch “FINDERS KEEPERS” ft. Scorey & Internet Money: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HQ3aMQGPE4k

Buy/Stream WITH OR WITHOUT YOU: https://DroKenji.lnk.to/WITHORWITHOUTYOU

WITH OR WITHOUT YOU tracklist:

PUSH2START
VANISH
TIGHTROPE
BOTTLE 4 BOTTLE
NEED YOU RIGHT NOW ft. HIGHWAY
DISASTER
USED2KNOW
FINDERS KEEPERS ft. Scorey & Internet Money
PRISON IN MY HEAD
SEE MY REASON
MOVING ON
OUR TOXINS
AUTOPILOT
NOT THE HALF OF IT
MORE THAN EVER

Photo credit: Daniel Prakopcyk

Please contact Michelle or Kevin for more info.

The Background:

Dro Kenji’s rise is a testament to the power of the internet. Last year, the 19-year-old artist was a senior in high school in South Carolina, releasing a string of captivating singles and mixtapes on his SoundCloud. Now, he’s preparing to release his debut album on Mira Touch/ Internet Money Records/ 10K Projects, collaborating closely with the label’s team of platinum-certified producers, and hoping to earn some plaques of his own. A true child of the digital age, raised on video games and the lo-fi sounds of rap’s online underground, he has a remarkable ability to capture both the apathy and aspiration of his generation in his songs and a spellbinding voice with which to tell these stories.

View his full bio at audibletreats.com/dro-kenji

Chino Cappin Does His Best to Hide the Pain in “Permanently Scarred” Video

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2.1.2022

Video: Chino Cappin – “Permanently Scarred“

The Alamo Records Signee Shares a Video for the Title Track from His New Album, a Mature and Melodic Effort with Appearances from Jacquees, PopLord & More

Critical Praise:

“It seems Chino Cappin’ has found his own lane, and he performs best when he puts his impressive voice to use.” – HotNewHipHop

“He explores his relationships with his loved ones on the deeply personal track” – UPROXX

“Dirty South influences and driving top lines set Chino Cappin apart” – Dummy Mag

“Chino Cappin has been a consistent force over the past several years, setting the standard for Georgia artists coming up outside of the Atlanta metro and developing as a vocalist and writer through the entire process.” – Lyrical Lemonade

The Video:

Armed with a golden voice and a determination to succeed, Chino Cappin emerged from rough circumstances to become one of the most promising artists in the Georgia hip-hop scene. In his new video for “Permanently Scarred,” Chino reveals that he didn’t escape from the trenches unscathed. Emoting over bluesy guitars with a melodic rasp, Chino resolves to work hard through his trauma to support his family: “I done seen some sh*t I can’t say, left me traumatized,” sings Chino. Directed by BPace, the new video portrays the duality of Chino’s high-flying lifestyle and the pain that he can’t help but feel even in his most triumphant moments.

“Permanently Scarred” is the title track from Chino’s new project Permanently Scarred, which dropped last week. Armed with his signature raspy tenor and agile delivery, Chino drifts seamlessly between colorful melodic runs and hard-biting triplet flows, detailing romantic situations with aplomb and flexing whenever neccessary. The new project is home to buzzing singles like “Last Time,” his yearning collaboration with fellow ATL native, PopLord, nearing 1.5 million views on YouTube, and “Ed Edd Eddy,” a fiery collaboration with 21 Lil Harold that earned a shout out from 21 Savage himself. With an additional appearance from kindred spirit Jacquees, plus vibrant production from Jacquees’ frequent collaborator Nash B, Permanently Scarred is available everywhere now via Alamo Records.

2021 was a busy year for Chino Cappin, as he continued his rise out of his small hometown of Fort Valley, GA on his way to the top of the ATL hip-hop scene. The artist shared Ladders, his first project released by Alamo, characterized by his relatable lyricism and infectious vocal lines which drip with the bravado of a man confident in his abilities. In June, Chino shared F*CC It BaCC To The BasiCs, a mixtape that finds Chino rhyming over instrumentals from all eras, focusing on R&B and rap from the early ’00s, including samples of songs by Moneybagg Yo, Usher, and more. As he built buzz, Chino earned praise from UPROXX and Dummy Mag, told his story in an interview with Dirty-Glove Bastard, and accompanied K Camp on his “Float Tour” in the fall.

Permanently Scarred marks a turning point in Chino’s rise, which is only gaining speed from here. With Chino SZN in full effect, stay tuned much more from the burgeoning rap star in 2022.

Watch “Permanently Scarred”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZSsbKMFRzk

Stream Permanently Scarred: https://lnk.to/ChinoCappin-PermanentlyScarred

Permanently Scarred Tracklist:

Been A Minute
Permanently Scarred
Toxic
Runnin
Ed Edd Eddy ft. 21 Lil Harold
Demon
Inside Ya Head
Money Crazy ft. PopLord
Till The Morning
Morning Prayer
Say My Name
Last Time ft. PopLord
Disrespectful ft. Jacquees
Where You At?
Letting You Go

Please contact Michelle or T’Keyah for more info.

The Background:

Chino Cappin is a lyricist and singer of many hats. First and foremost, he’s the voice of the streets, with a background in the slums that has given him the creative drive to progress in the packed hip-hop industry. But in addition to his rough and gruff image, he’s a fun-loving goofball, intense creative, and mastermind of charisma. With co-signs from No Jumper and the UK’s Dummy Mag, it’s clear many people from around the world have begun to tune in to hear what Chino’s been saying and continues to say. To date, Chino has amassed over 1.1 million streams, 900,000+ views, and an Instagram following of 28k+. These are authentic, consistent numbers that reveal a fanbase genuinely attracted to Chino in all capacities. His impact can be attributed to his authentic approach to rap and, surprisingly, his process of making music which is a unique take on two well-tested methods. He typically looks to select beats that evoke emotion and then lay down melodies and write to them. However, he also enjoys going off the top with whatever he’s feeling in the moment as well.

Rolling Loud Links With The Clermont Twins and Bloody Osiris For New RL Productions Thermal Collection

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1.28.2022

Rolling Loud Recruits the Clermont Twins and Bloody Osiris to Unveil RL Productions – Thermal Collection, a New Drop Ready to Heat Up the Winter Season

The Latest Capsule Collection From the World’s Biggest Rap Festival Prioritizes All-Day Warmth and Fashionable Relaxation

The Announcement:

Rolling Loud Productions launches “RL Productions – Thermal Collection,” a new limited set, cut for warmth and comfort. Offering breathable, cozy waffle thermals for at-home lounging or everyday moves, the latest Rolling Loud Productions-branded set includes a long sleeve shirt, shorts, and leggings offered in mint, cocoa, and black colorways. The RL Productions Thermal Collection was curated by Rolling Loud co-founder Matt Zingler, designed by Ed Hume and Ray Guilbault, and creative-directed by Smith Durogene.

Recruiting the Clermont Twins and Bloody Osiris to model the new capsule for their lookbook, Rolling Loud continues to prove their consistency with providing a premium product, whether that be in street wear or live music. Built to last with premium construction, the RL Production shorts and sweatpants come with side pockets, an elastic waist, long drawstrings, and a relaxed fit for all-day warmth. The long sleeve shirt is also built for comfort, offering an oversized fit that will ensure warmth. Each piece in the Thermal Drop comes with a price point of $65 and is available for purchase now.

Known as tastemakers in its role as the world’s largest hip-hop festival, Rolling Loud is building a similar reputation in the world of street fashion. Along with its coveted collections of festival merch, Rolling Loud offers limited edition, themed Cut N Sew collections, notable for bold design and premium craftsmanship. Past Cut N Sew collections include the Moto 20 collection and the Open The Pit collection.

Buy RL Productions clothing here: https://shoprollingloud.com/

Please contact Michelle, Kerry, or Kevin for more info.

Critical Praise:

“In four and a half years — beginning small in Miami, and now promoting Coachella-sized events around the country — Rolling Loud has established itself as a playground for the young…This time last year, many of the rappers now drawing crowds of several thousand were barely known.” – The New York Times

“Rolling Loud is the be-all of hip-hop festivals.” – Billboard

“The Rolling Loud New York experiment was a success—one which will likely earn it a return trip to the city in future years. Far from a traditional NYC rap experience, it was a two-day event that catered to the genre’s youngest fans, with an eye squarely focused on the future.” – Complex

“In only its fifth year with four major destinations and more in the pipeline overseas, athletes, celebrities and others are forking over as much as $20,000 for VIP packages. Of course, imitators are cropping up.” – Pollstar

“…within five years Rolling Loud has grown into one of the biggest hip-hop brands in the world. Locally, it has surpassed rival events Ultra and III Points in stature and rivals prestige festivals like Coachella.” – Miami New Times

The Background:

Founded by Matt Zingler & Tariq Cherif as a one-day Miami show, Rolling Loud has grown into a global festival phenomenon, putting on shows on both coasts and in multiple countries. Rolling Loud is the premier festival brand in hip-hop, known for its expert curation of wide-ranging lineups that reflect the state of the genre.

The festival returned from a 18-month hiatus on July 23rd-25th, with the sold out Rolling Loud Miami 2021, its biggest event yet, bringing in over 85,000 fans per day to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL. With headliners like Post Malone and A$AP Rocky, Rolling Loud Miami 2021 was a triumphant return for live rap music, and a coming out party for risers and new superstars eager to play in front of a festival crowd. Rolling Loud Miami kicked off a massive year for the festival brand, arriving ahead of Rolling Loud New York 2021, and Rolling Loud California, headlined by J. Cole, Kid Cudi, and Future.

During the pandemic, Rolling Loud expanded into much more than just a live festival company. With no in-person show possibilities in sight, Rolling Loud pivoted to become a heavy-hitter in the world of Livestreaming, drawing millions of unique viewers and landing multiple events in Pollstar’s Year-End Livestream Chart. In June 2021, Rolling Loud launched Rolling Loud Presents, their first venture into tour promotions, taking the Rolling Loud experience on the road with a series of tours headlined by some of the biggest stars in hip-hop, including Rod Wave, Trippie Redd, Jack Harlow, and more to be announced.

SOSSHOUSE Artist Kura Opens Doors Full of Possibilities in “HOLD IT UP” Video

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1.28.2022

Video: Kura – “HOLD IT UP”

The Detroit Rapper and Producer Reflects On Living His Dream Life In New Video Single, Produced By Pi’erre Bourne

The Video:

Finding the perfect combination of versatile flows and sonic beats, Kura is determined to be the next rapper/producer to blow up out of Detroit. Coming through with a creative new visual, Kura shares “HOLD IT UP,” his new video single. Fully produced by GRAMMY Award-winning rapper/producer, Pi’erre Bourne, the track is characterized by an entrancing beat paired with Kura’s cool, calm, and collected flow. Showcasing his persistence to achieve his goals, Kura raps, “If s*** get tough, it’s gonna be alright because we got another day.”

In the video, Kura stands in front of a free-standing door that is always by his side regardless of how many different locations he’s transported to when he walks through. The 18 year-old rapper finally ends up in a big city surrounded by skyscrapers where he pauses a moment to take it all in. Never hesitating to find out what’s behind a new closed door, Kura shows that he’s prepared and excited to handle whatever might come his way.

Speaking on his experience working with Pi’erre Bourne for the new track, Kura explained: “Being in the studio is a whole new environment for me so it was an experience. Even though I was out of my comfort zone recording with an engineer that beat felt right for me and it just clicked. After he made the beat and the engineer pulled it up everything else was a blur because I was so focused. I woke up the next day so geeked over the song.”

The new track demonstrates the direction the Detroit rapper is taking sonically and offers a preview for an upcoming project Kura has coming later this year. With its vocal harmonies and uniquely dark and hypnotic production, the future project promises to be a refreshing divergence from current trends, and an entirely new take on Kura’s previous sound.

Even though he’s only 18, Kura feels like he can stay grounded as a newcomer in the industry, saying, “Everything for me is about balance. Knowing how to work hard and play hard. Since music is something I’m so passionate about and I’m young enough to still learn but also get tired, I give myself time to breathe. You gotta learn what you can handle especially at a young age like me because if I overwork myself or even stop working for a period everything spirals.”

Now signed to SOSSHOUSE, Kura looks to make a name for himself with his elastic flows and swift melodies. Stay tuned for much more to come from the young artist as he keeps dreaming big.

Watch “HOLD IT UP”: https://youtu.be/dbdQTomsuFA

Please contact Michelle or Kerry for more info.

The Background:

At 14, Kura began producing, rapping, songwriting, and engineering himself from his bedroom in Michigan. Inspired by the music of the Sex Pistols, Aphex Twin, and Pi’erre Bourne, he quickly gained recognition for his confident vocals, versatile flows, and dizzying melodies. Younger than all of his artist peers, Kura’s lyrics not only portrayed the rockstar life he was about to have, but also the reality of what he currently lived.

Kura’s music style continues to develop, reflecting his ever-evolving lifestyle, mindset, and taste. His DIY process garnered him millions of SoundCloud plays, thousands of Spotify listeners as Blockboy K, and the attention of some of rap’s biggest names. At just 17, Kura was offered the opportunity to work alongside one of his idols: Grammy award-winning rapper/producer, Pi’erre Bourne. He signed a record deal with Pi’erre’s label, SOSSHOUSE, and has since teased a collaboration project with the historically influential artist. Kura also has music set to release with artists such as Babyface Ray and Veeze, as well as features from Chavo, Sharc, and more.

Chino Cappin Puts Heartbreak in High-Res on ‘Permanently Scarred’

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1.28.2022

Georgia’s Chino Cappin Shares Permanently Scarred, A New Full-Length with Guest Spots from Jacquees, PopLord and More

Chino Cappin Sharpens His Pen, Delivers Kaleidoscopic Melodies with New Full-Length Project, His Most Mature and Refined Effort To Date

Critical Praise:

“It seems Chino Cappin’ has found his own lane, and he performs best when he puts his impressive voice to use.” – HotNewHipHop

“He explores his relationships with his loved ones on the deeply personal track” – UPROXX

“Dirty South influences and driving top lines set Chino Cappin apart” – Dummy Mag

The Project:

A rising star in the ever-competitive Atlanta scene, Chino Cappin has carved out his own lane with true-to-life lyricism and R&B-flavored flows. Improving on his craft as he continues his come-up, Chino Cappin delivers an impassioned exploration of the pain that molded him with his new project, Permanently Scarred. Armed with his signature raspy tenor and agile delivery, Chino drifts seamlessly between colorful melodic runs and hard-biting triplet flows.

Displaying an emotional maturity beyond his years, Chino displays the strides he’s made as a storyteller and songwriter on the new project, exploring his determination to weather the pain of his troubled past on tracks like “Been A Minute” and recent single, “Permanently Scarred,” while disrupting the vulnerable progression with upbeat bangers like “Money Crazy” and “Toxic,” in which he poises himself as ATL’s most eligible bachelor. The new project is home to buzzing singles like “Last Time,” his yearning collaboration with fellow ATL native, PopLord, nearing 1.5 million views on YouTube, and “Ed Edd Eddy,” a fiery collaboration with 21 Lil Harold that earned a shout out from 21 Savage himself. Featuring an appearance from his kindred spirit Jacquees, plus vibrant production from Jacquees’ frequent collaborator Nash B, Permanently Scarred is available everywhere now via Alamo Records.

Permanently Scarred marks a turning point in Chino’s rise, which is only gaining speed from here. With Chino SZN in full effect, stay tuned much more from the burgeoning rap star in 2022.

Stream Permanently Scarred: https://lnk.to/ChinoCappin-PermanentlyScarred

Permanently Scarred Tracklist:

Been A Minute
Permanently Scarred
Toxic
Runnin
Ed Edd Eddy ft. 21 Lil Harold
Demon
Inside Ya Head
Money Crazy ft. PopLord
Till The Morning
Morning Prayer
Say My Name
Last Time ft. PopLord
Disrespectful ft. Jacquees
Where You At?
Letting You Go

Please contact Michelle or T’Keyah for more info.

The Background:

Bigg Unccc Looks Skyward with Somber Gratitude in “Letter To Flippa”

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1.28.2022

Audio: Bigg Unccc – “Letter To Flippa“

The South Memphis Spitter & PRE Signee Pays Homage to His Mentor with Booming Tribute

The Song:

Of the many vocations that encompass Young Dolph’s lasting legacy, the Paper Route Empire independent label of hungry, talented artists hand-picked by Dolph continues to honor his vision and life’s work by bringing the greatness he saw in them to fruition. South Memphis’ Bigg Unccc is the latest PRE artist to eulogize his mentor on a track with the release of his single, “Letter to Flippa.” The track sees Bigg Unccc wrestle with his grief, yet remain dedicated to fulfilling Dolph’s belief in him, delivering hard-nosed bars with his uptempo flow and dressed-down Southern delivery.

“Letter to Flippa” is a standout among dedication tracks for its raw groundedness in reality, as Unccc calls out those who hyperbolize their grief for clout while grappling with vengeful temptations of his own. Yet, he realizes those inclinations would only have him regress into the life Dolph helped him out of, rapping, “I was just f****d up and starving/But you had reached out and you came and saved a n****/You told me to rap and you told me be patient, n****.”

The track closes out with a touching clip from Young Dolph that echoes Unccc’s sentiments while seemingly passing the torch, commissioning Unccc to go finish the work he started, as Dolph raps, “Trust nobody, ‘cause I’m cold-hearted/My young n**** Bigg Unccc, b****, he the hardest.”

Stream “Letter To Flippa”: https://music.empi.re/flippa

Bigg Unccc / Photo Credit: @IThinkEthan

Please contact Michelle or Kerry for more info.

Ace Hood Announces 2/25 M.I.N.D. EP, Shares New “Glory” Single

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1.28.2022

Ace Hood Announces New EP, M.I.N.D. (Memories Inside Never Die), Arriving 2/25 via Hood Nation/EMPIRE

The Platinum-Selling Rapper Rises Above Expectations on “Glory” Single

The Broward County Veteran Continues His Reign of Independent Dominance with New Single from Upcoming EP, M.I.N.D. (Memories Inside Never Die)

The Announcement:

Since he bought out his major label contract to take control of his art and direction, Ace Hood has tapped into the full potential of his mental, spiritual, and physical power. Today, Ace Hood channels that energy, kicking off the year with the announcement of his upcoming EP, M.I.N.D. (Memories Inside Never Die), along with the release of its new single, “Glory.”

The Olivier Bassil & MakeTheNoises-produced and Holla Fame-engineered “Glory” finds Ace reflecting on the great many obstacles and expectations that stood in the way of the success he was able to achieve, as well as the impediments standing between the Black community and an equitable future: “The blacker the berry, you know ain’t no sort of compassion/Had to study their tactics/We living gods, and they trying to bury our magic/In a devilish fashion,” raps Ace. However, Ace assures listeners that those challenges can be overcome with the focus and dedication he aims to inspire.

“Glory” is the second single to arrive from M.I.N.D., following the glowing, self-assured “Little Light,” released in late 2021. The EP, arriving on February 25th via Hood Nation/EMPIRE, kicks off what is poised to be a career year in the artist’s independent reign.

Amid a career in which Ace Hood earned gold and platinum plaques, Top 10 albums, and A-list collaborations, Ace Hood solidified his legend as the first rapper from Broward County, FL, to reach national prominence, paving the way for artists like Kodak Black, YNW Melly (about whom Ace Hood narrated a podcast), and more. This new path was not easily forged for Ace, who made immense personal sacrifices to invest in himself while reinventing his artistry. Ace’s journey to inhabit his new self began with his physical and mental health–he devoted himself to training (he started a supplement brand called Ace Blend to help people realize their gains), meditation, family time, and self-love.

Though there were some bumps on his road to self-reliance, Ace always knew he was on the right track. “I am in a space where I’m creating the best music of my life,” says Ace. The success of his 2020 album, Mr. Hood, and its hit single, “We Ball” (75 million streams), have proven that statement, and this year, he’s on a mission to sustain, even grow, his independent empire.

With M.I.N.D. arriving next month, stay tuned for much more music and mindfulness from Ace Hood in 2022.

Stream “Glory”: https://music.empi.re/glory

Please contact Michelle or Myles for more info.

Dro Kenji Ascends to New Melodic Plane on Debut Album ‘WITH OR WITHOUT YOU’

Go to Post

1.28.2022

Album: Dro Kenji – WITH OR WITHOUT YOU

Featuring 15 Emotionally-Charged Tracks, Including Recent Singles “Finders Keepers” and “VANISH,” Plus 1, WITH OR WITHOUT YOU Finds the MiraTouch/Internet Money Artist Expanding His Vocal Range and Collaborating with Peers Like Scorey and Highway

Critical Praise:

“Once he selects a beat, the melodies and lyrics flood over him like an epiphany. The result is raw and heart-sinking music, meant to be a guiding light to fans.” – Audiomack

The Album:

A tireless worker who wears his heart on his sleeve, Dro Kenji chronicles his tragedies and triumphs in diaristic bursts of soaring melody. After cutting his teeth with four mixtapes, all released before he turned 20-years-old, Kenji levels up on WITH OR WITHOUT YOU, his official debut album. The South Carolina native is a startling vocal talent with a well-developed sense of drama–he switches from sweet singing to raw nerve bursts of emotion at a moment’s notice, his intensity rising and falling along with the beats in his narratives. Spanning 15 tracks, the new album finds Kenji exploring the ins and outs of young love, the album moves from intoxicating infatuation in early songs like “BOTTLE 4 BOTTLE” and “PUSH2START,” to the slow drift apart in songs like project highlight “USED2KNOW,” to the inevitable devastation of love’s end in songs like “OUR TOXINS” and “NOT THE HALF OF IT.”

Throughout the album, Kenji finds the perfect accompaniment in beats from Nick Mira, Census, and other members of Internet Money, who mix organic instrumentation (melancholic piano, gently-plucked guitar) with rage-ready synth lines and thumping low-end. On tracks like recent singles “VANISH” (2.9 million Spotify streams) and “FINDERS KEEPERS” ft. Scorey (4 million Spotify streams), Kenji slides through the negative spaces in the beat with fast-talking flows and smooth melodic runs, displaying a collaborative chemistry that elevates both artist and producer. Featuring an additional appearance from Seattle rapper Highway, WITH OR WITHOUT YOU is available everywhere via Internet Money Records/MiraTouch/10k Projects.

Kenji’s debut album arrives after a banner year for the young artist, who achieved multiple career milestones while elevating his artistry. 2021 saw Kenji embark on his first headlining national tour, which he wrapped up with a performance at Rolling Loud California. 2021 also saw Kenji release two new mixtapes, including EAT YOUR HEART OUT, this past spring, featuring “KILL CUPID” ft. $NOT (15 million Spotify streams), which received an animated video, and the early summer’s F*CK YOUR FEELINGS, which saw the rapper flex and reflect over 16 tracks of expansive Internet Money production, and features highlights like “SUPERSTAR” and “TRANCE.”

Never one to rest on his laurels, Dro Kenji is only just starting his rise. Stay tuned for much more from the prolific artist as he continues his ascent to the highest echelons of the rap game.

Buy/Stream WITH OR WITHOUT YOU: https://DroKenji.lnk.to/WITHORWITHOUTYOU

WITH OR WITHOUT YOU tracklist:

PUSH2START
VANISH
TIGHTROPE
BOTTLE 4 BOTTLE
NEED YOU RIGHT NOW ft. HIGHWAY
DISASTER
USED2KNOW
FINDERS KEEPERS ft. Scorey & Internet Money
PRISON IN MY HEAD
SEE MY REASON
MOVING ON
OUR TOXINS
AUTOPILOT
NOT THE HALF OF IT
MORE THAN EVER

Photo credit: Daniel Prakopcyk

Please contact Michelle or Kevin for more info.

The Background:

View his full bio at audibletreats.com/dro-kenji

Icewear Vezzo Stirs the Pot in “Richer Than My Opps”

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1.27.2022

Video: Icewear Vezzo – “Richer Than My Opps“

The Detroit Rap Trailblazer Flexes on His Foes in Menacing New Banger

Critical Praise:

“The King of contemporary Detroit rap” – HYPEBEAST

“‘Champions’ is arguably the best single out of Detroit this year” – Pitchfork

“As a Detroit hip-hop veteran, Icewear Vezzo has earned his position in the city’s hierarchy. With his first mixtape, The Clarity, dropping in 2013, and turning into a series, along with his presence in Detroit, the groundwork he’s put in over time is respected.”- XXL

The Video:

Having carved out a name for himself amongst Detroit rap royalty with his effortless bravado, offhand slick talk, and casual delivery, Icewear Vezzo has entrenched himself as a fixture of the city as both a rapper and entrepreneur. The competitive mentality and devoted persistence required to excel in each of those fields as Vezzo has are abundantly evident in his latest video single, “Richer Than My Opps,” available now. Driven by the infectious repetition of its titular hook and punchline heavy verses, the track finds Vezzo putting enemies on notice that they could never make flexing look so easy, so they might as well stop trying.

The video sees Vezzo posted in a kitchen that would look a scene from a ’50s sitcom if it weren’t for the racks, double-cups, and baking soda on the breakfast table. Flanked by posse at times and trapping by his lonesome at others, the visuals mirror the journey Vezzo took to become “Richer Than My Opps.” Though Vezzo flaunts the spoils of his success alongside his team, it’s his hands that stir the point, and what he cooks up can’t be replicated.

“Richer Than My Opps” kicks off Vezzo’s year in bold fashion as it arrives in the wake of his recent mixtape, Rich Off Pints 2, in September. The sequel to the Pitchfork-praised Rich Off Pints, ROP 2 explores Vezzo’s evolution from hustler to entrepreneur, elucidating the artist’s competitive mentality one track at a time. The 14-track project boasts over 65 million US streams to date, along with 4.2 million streams across catalog last week. ROP 2 follows Vezzo’s high-profile collaborations, including “Tear The Club Up” ft. Future and “Up The Scoe“ ft. Lil Durk, with the latter boasting over 13.6 million YouTube views and 42 million streams to date. Featuring additional appearances from Moneybagg Yo, Rio Da Yung OG, RMR, Babyface Ray and more, Rich Off Pints 2 is available everywhere via Iced Up Records.

With Vezzo staying consistent, 2022 is his year. Stay tuned for more from the prolific rapper and entrepreneur.

Watch “Richer Than My Opps”: https://youtu.be/dfoJD9vmUx4

Buy/Stream “Richer Than My Opps”: https://foundation-media.ffm.to/richerthanmyopps

Tap in with Icewear Vezzo: https://linktr.ee/IcewearVezzo

Please contact Michelle or T’Keyah for more info.

The Background:

Respected from The A to The Bay and everywhere in between, Icewear Vezzo helped build the Detroit rap scene into the flourishing behemoth it is today. Since releasing his first mixtape The Clarity in 2013, Vezzo built a large and loyal fanbase in The Mitten and beyond, feeding the streets and his 131k YouTube subscribers with high-quality releases and representing for Detroit on tracks by Big Sean, G Herbo, Drakeo The Ruler, DJ Mustard, Zaytoven, and many others. The 31-year-old artist frequently collaborates with other major figures in the Detroit scene, including Peezy and Babyface Ray, who he featured on his street hit –in just the past two years, Vezzo made waves with songs like “Meg Thee Stallion” ft. Babyface Ray, GT & Veeze (7.8 million YouTube views. named one of the Best Songs of 2020 by Passion Of The Weiss), “The Sit-Down” ft. Babyface Ray (6.2 million views), and “Dog Action” ft. Rio Da Yung OG (10 million YouTube views).

In addition to his heavy stature in the rap game, Vezzo makes moves as an entrepreneur in multiple industries. He’s the owner of his own label Iced Up Records, recently launched the Iced Up Films, a production company whose first film Price Of Love (starring Vezzo himself) is available for rent on Amazon, and is the CEO of his own clothing company Drank God Clothing. Though he’s a self-made man, Vezzo never forgets to give back–his company Iced Up Realty focuses on providing affordable housing in the Detroit community in which he was raised, and he teamed up with his mom to start The Detroit Rappers Organization, which is heavily involved in seasonal giveaways and field trips for Detroit’s youth.

Lil Rekk Laughs His Haters Off in “Kiddin Me”

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1.26.2022

Video: Lil Rekk – “Kiddin Me”

The Highbridge The Label Signee Sets the Record Straight in Street-Savvy Slapper from Recent Project, 1ONE

Critical Praise:

The Video:

North Philly native Lil Rekk’s laid-back bravado and lyrical authenticity have poised the young riser for a major level-up in 2022. After kicking off the year with his recent project, 1ONE, earlier this month, the Highbridge The Label signee returns to address the critics of his come-up with new visuals for project highlight, “Kiddin Me.” Despite their resentment, Rekk makes it crystal clear that he can handle any hater single-handedly, rapping, “I don’t gotta say sh*t/They know who, it’s me/I’m the main ooter/I don’t need nobody to oot for me.”

The JetpackTV-shot and edited video sees a solitary Rekk posted up on an empty block of the New York streets, pouring water on his iced out namesake chain, and even taking over cashier duties at a local bodega, all the while radiating the cold, coarse confidence of a lone wolf. “Kiddin Me” arrives in the wake of the recent video for “PTSD,” which was released alongside 1ONE, available everywhere via EMPIRE/Highbridge the Label.

Born and raised in North Philly, Rekk only started focusing on his musical career in 2019 after he watched one of his friends get into the rap game. Inspired by his friend’s hustle, Rekk found his own footing in the industry and has since released two full-length albums, The Ticket in 2019 and World Plus in 2021. The latter album has found mainstream success with Rekk’s “So So Dangerous” featuring Stunna Gambino & YXNG K.A receiving over 2.4 million views on YouTube. Now signed to Highbridge The Label, Lil Rekk is ready to bring his confident and relatable street music to his ever growing fanbase.

With 1ONE, Lil Rekk proved that he’s next out of Philly, and ready to follow his Highbridge labelmates A Boogie and Don Q to stardom in 2022.

Watch “Kiddin Me”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o89XSLhBFQQ

Buy/Stream 1ONE: https://music.empi.re/1one

1ONE tracklist:

Confetti
Get Money
Game Time
PTSD
Acting Strange
Ooters
So Bipolar
Dog S***
Kiddin’ Me
Outta Control
Double Tap ft. 42 Dugg
Time

Please contact Michelle or T’Keyah for more info.

The Background:

Links:

instagram | twitter | youtube | spotify

“Kiddin Me”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JcvyeuELQ5Q

Buy/Stream 1ONE: https://music.empi.re/1xabmnj

“PTSD”: https://youtu.be/MgKytRcuTlw

“Confetti” (Live): https://youtu.be/Lu8FUZ-e3n0

“Time”: https://youtu.be/wuAvhG3owIg / https://youtu.be/wuAvhG3owIg

“Ooters”: https://music.empi.re/ooters / https://youtu.be/VSXzYcCWNJs

“Game Time”: https://music.empi.re/gametime

END

That’s Not My Name,” creators reveal their nicknames given to them by others. Boasting over 486k+ creations, the catchy track finds TikTok users sharing the funny nicknames they gave their dog, listing every nickname they’ve had over the years, and revealing what they call their significant other. In other creations, TikTok users make it clear how to spell their name correctly, using the emphatic line, “That’s not my name.” Drew Barrymore even joined in on the trend, reflecting on the iconic roles she’s played throughout her acting career.

Recapping a busy year of music on the platform, TikTok shared its “Year On TikTok: 2021 Music Report” in mid-December, offering data and in-depth analysis about the platform’s biggest songs and most impactful trends. View the full report here: https://newsroom.tiktok.com/en-us/year-on-tiktok-music-report-2021

Check TikTok’s newsroom for more noteworthy stories: newsroom.tiktok.com

For more info, please contact:
Michelle McDevitt, Kerry Harrison, Destiny Riley, T’Keyah Hayes, Audible Treats
Leah Linder, TikTok

The Background:

TikTok is the leading destination for short-form mobile video. Their mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy.

TikTok has global offices including Los Angeles, New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, Jakarta, Seoul, and Tokyo.

Links:

TikTok’s Newsroom: https://newsroom.tiktok.com/en-us

Check out previous editions of TikTok Treats, a weekly newsletter about the most interesting music happenings on TikTok:

“Pushin P,” Papa Roach, “Pompeii” and More Music Trends from TikTok
We Need to Talk About “Bruno,” And Other TikTok Music Trends
TikTok Rings In The New Year with Bad Bunny, Drill Remixes, and R&B Hits
Christmas Songs, Squid Game Remixes, and More TikTok Music Stories
For Your TikTok Turkey Day Soundtrack: Taylor Swift, Regina Spektor, and More
Taylor Swift Turns TikTok ‘Red,’ ‘Tis Mariah Carey’s Season, Lady Gaga Makes A Grand Arrival & More
O n TikTok: U2 Closes Out #Rocktober as Kanye West and Afropop Lead New Trends
Led Zeppelin Joins TikTok, While Adele and Luke Combs Spark New Trends
D wayne Johnson, George Michael, and Jack Stauber Inspire New TikTok Trends
On TikTok: A Bee Gees Remix, A Very Juggalo Halloween, and Some Rising Hitmakers
Rosalía, Coi Leray, and MCR Highlight the Week in TikTok Music
Balvin, Doja, and Mariah Lead a Star-Studded Week on TikTok
Sam Smith, Ciara and Breakout PinkPantheress Highlight the Week on TikTok
Lizzo Starts “Rumors,” bbno$ Eats “edamame,” and More Hip-Hop TikTok Stories
#AltTikTok, Alt-J, and All-Time Rap Classics Define Music on TikTok This Week
Cats, Babies, & Vietnamese Techno Highlight the Week in TikTok Music
On TikTok: Normani, Reba, and a Gas Station Star
The Kid Laroi Meets Bieber, Drake Runs Thru The 6, and More From TikTok
BIA Meets Nicki, Stromae Slows Down, and More TikTok Trends
On TikTok: Music Trends Inspired by Kanye, Young Nudy, and…Meryl Streep?
Avril Lavigne, Bo Burnham, and Gucci Mane Lead The Week in TikTok Trends
TikTok Summer Madness: Lorde Leads a Pack of New Trending Songs
Swae Lee, WILLOW, Mitski & More Inspire Trends on TikTok
Only On TikTok: Lil Durk & City Girls Trend Alongside…The Backyardigans?
On TikTok: BTS Army Takes Over, Carti Demands Silence, and Fans Anticipate F9
Olivia Rodrigo Catches Fire, Miguel Helps Users Catch Feelings, and More TikTok Stories
Saweetie, Calvin Harris, and Bella Poarch Highlight The Week in TikTok
Another One? DJ Khaled, Lizzo, and More Make the Week in TikTok
Doja Cat, Little Simz, and El Alfa Inspire TikTok Trends
Britney Spears, Chloe Bailey, and Diplo Make Waves on TikTok
Dua Lipa, Drake, and Bell Biv DeVoe Make Waves on TikTok
DMX Gets His Flowers, Silk Sonic Reaches #1, and More TikTok Stories
TikTok Unveils Music-Powered Filters, Lil Nas X Debuts At #1, and More TikTok Stories
Bieber Tops The Charts, Young Thug Premieres New Music, and More TikTok Stories
Demi Lovato Kicks Off TikTok’s New Livestream Series Headstream
Rock Music Thrives on TikTok, Just Ask Yungblud, Beach Bunny, and More
Shania Hops On Board, Kid Cudi Tosses and Turns, and More TikTok Stories
On TikTok: Kali Uchis and Coi Leray Hit the Charts as Bobby Shmurda Comes Home
Rihanna, Brent Faiyaz, and Giveon Lead TikTok’s R&B Moment
T-Pain, Hyperpop, and Anti-Valentine’s Anthems Take TikTok By Storm
Cardi Goes Up, Uzi Goes Down (to Sleep), and More TikTok Stories
Black History Month Kicks Off, Mark Ronson Duets, and More Music Stories From TikTok
Cardi Goes Up, Uzi Goes Down (to Sleep), and More TikTok Stories
Dave Grohl, Migos, Miley, and More Happenings on TikTok
This Week on TikTok: Olivia Rodrigo Hits #1 as Memes & Mashups Flourish
New Year, New TikTok Trends: Alicia Keys, Remembering MF DOOM & More
Paul McCartney, Holiday Celebrations, and New Year’s Eve Live on TikTok
TikTok Releases First U.S. Music Report: Here Are Some Key Insights
How TikTok’s Top 10 Songs of 2020 Impacted the Industry

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01.26.2022

Act Like You Know: Time Machines, The Ting Tings, & More on TikTok

01.25.2022

Xavier Wulf Tunes Up His Ride And Sharpens His Rhymes In “Pressure Gauge” Video

Press Release

Xavier Wulf Tunes Up His Ride And Sharpens His Rhymes In “Pressure Gauge” Video

Go to Post

1.25.2022

Video: Xavier Wulf – “Pressure Gauge“

The Hollow Squad Head Honcho Juices Up His Whip In Latest Video Off His Quintin Lamb-produced GARAGE PUNK EP

The Video:

Always keeping a pedal to the floor whenever he jumps on a track, Memphis underground king Xavier Wulf is also one of the game’s prime purveyors of premium wheels. Today, he returns with a new video for “Pressure Gauge” which puts his love of souped-up, street-race-ready whips on full display. A highlight from Wulf’s recent GARAGE PUNK EP, produced in full by Quintin Lamb, a producer and member of Wulf’s Hollow Squad, “Pressure Gauge” is a headbanging heater that showcases Xavier’s acute ability to attack Lamb’s haunting, sinister production with ease and finesse. In the video, we find Xavier prepping his whip for a night of drifting, hitting the gas station to refuel before heading to the shop for a quick tune up. “Pressure Gauge” follows up his recent video release of “TOP DEAD CENTER” which finds him shutting down a car show with his fellow Hollow Squad brethren.

Produced in full by Quintin Lamb, the efficient 5-track, 9-minute GARAGE PUNK EP is perfectly suited for repeat listens, as Wulf sheds his sheep’s clothing and achieves a sinister symbiosis with Lamb’s horror film instrumentals. The follow-up to 2020’s RUDE DOG, a full-length collaboration between the two artists, GARAGE PUNK closed out 2021 for Xavier Wulf, a year in which he released popular loose singles like “Silver Fang Wulf“ (also produced by Lamb), and collaborated with the likes of BONES, Eddy Baker, IdonKnowJeffery, and Mikey Rotten. Earlier this month, the Memphis native dropped a new collection of merch inspired by GARAGE PUNK, designed by Wulf himself as part of his Moonstone brand.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, and deeply steeped in his home city’s musical tradition, Xavier Wulf had a hand in nearly every major underground rap movement in the past decade. Wulf was one of the first rappers to build a following on SoundCloud, helping make the platform the go-to for aspiring rappers and establishing it as a hub of hip-hop innovation. Throughout his career, Wulf has criss-crossed the invisible line between underground and mainstream, racking up hundreds of millions of streams, and playing to sold out crowds across the country.

Pushing his sound forward with every release, Xavier Wulf is not even close to finished with his artistic journey. Stay tuned this year for more videos, an upcoming tour, and of course, plenty of new music.

Watch “Pressure Gauge”: https://youtu.be/wLOBUrG6Rx4

Buy/Stream GARAGE PUNK: http://ffm.to/garagepunk

Buy Xavier Wulf merch, including the new GARAGE PUNK items: https://moonstonecove.com

Please contact Michelle and Kevin for more info.

The Background:

Xavier Wulf is a man possessed. When he has a dream or sets a goal, it consumes him. When he hears a beat, it takes over his body, commanding him to speak, shout, and let out the rage. As an artist and a person, he is quite literally driven by something beyond himself — maybe that’s a little on the nose for a rapper known for his deep love of street racing and drifting, but it’s also an apt description for his process. When Xavier clicks with an instrumental, he closes his eyes, puts the lyrical pedal to the floor, and lets it all out, following whatever road feels right.

These days it’s fashionable to look down South for samples and sounds, but as a native of the 901, Xavier Wulf has been making hardcore Memphis music since long before it was cool to remake Three 6 Mafia classics. His sound is classic underground Memphis to the bone, but it’s not at all stuck in the past or cashing in on nostalgia. Xavier takes spare parts from the music he grew up with and puts them under a sleek new hood, the muscular engine of a candy-painted Cadillac in the body of a Japanese drift car. The city’s distinctive car scene is often forgotten when talking about Memphis rap—the thick 808-heavy beats of Hypnotize Minds and 8Ball & MJG were designed with trunk speakers in mind. In addition to his childhood love of Fast & Furious and Need For Speed, Xavier grew up going to car shows in Memphis and eventually got turned onto the customized and turbo-charged Nissan Skylines and Honda S2000s of the underground drift world.

When Xavier’s enthusiasm for anime led him to the cult series Initial D, about a phantom driver who drifts in the mountains outside Tokyo, everything shifted into a different gear. It’s not just the Initial D samples or car references but an extra boost of nitro to his bass-driven sound, which begs to be heard from the biggest car sound-system you can find. YouTube and SoundCloud may be where Xavier Wulf made his name, but it’s in the garage and the literal streets where he’s found a true lane of his own: now he dreams as much about becoming the world’s greatest drifter, having his own trailer and a pit crew, and eventually teaching his kids to drive as he does rapping.

Xavier might be one of rap’s reigning underground kings, but he readily admits that he didn’t get to where he is alone. His name and image might suggest a lone wolf, but Xavier has always run with a tight pack: first as one of the original architects of the infamous and influential Raider Klan collective, and later as a core member of SESHOLLOWATERBOYZ along with BONES, Eddy Baker, and Chris Travis. There’s an incredibly real connection between Xavier and his fans, who he prefers to call “supporters,” which you can feel in the raucous atmosphere of his shows and see in the countless producers and rappers out there who have been inspired by his music. That mutual respect between artist and audience runs deep, because Xavier isn’t just using his listeners as a stepping stone to larger celebrity or clout. He cares deeply about how his supporters respond to his music: “I take my music seriously and I want it to be heard in the right way. I didn’t put my face out there when I was starting out because I needed people to hear the music, not see me.” In a very literal sense, his music might not exist if it wasn’t for the audience; Xavier lets the music come to him, opening up his inbox to beat submissions from fans, a way of giving back to his supporters while also finding new styles and undiscovered voices. “When I was growing up listening to Three 6 Mafia and Memphis music, I wanted to get my own piece of that sound. Now kids listen to my music, and they want their own piece of it, they want to make something like that too.” For over a decade now, Xavier Wulf has been consumed by a spirit outside himself to create—his music possesses, haunts, and pushes his listeners too.

Links:

“Pressure Gauge”: https://youtu.be/wLOBUrG6Rx4

“TOP DEAD CENTER”: https://youtu.be/X5iaGAhtRAI

GARAGE PUNK: http://ffm.to/garagepunk

“SILVER FANG WULF”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUaIuRxNB6Q

RUDE DOG: https://music.empi.re/rudedog

END

01.24.2022

Kenny Muney Remembers His Mentor in “Role Model” Video

Press Release

Kenny Muney Remembers His Mentor in “Role Model” Video

Go to Post

1.24.2022

Video: Kenny Muney – “Role Model“

Paper Route Empire’s Kenny Muney Remembers Dolph as a Brother, Leader, and Mentor in the Latest Video from Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph

The Video:

Young Dolph hand-picked the roster of his label Paper Route Empire, selecting artists who shared his work ethic, hunger, and love for the art of rhyming. Even before signing to PRE, Kenny Muney had a special relationship with Dolph, who plucked him out of the Memphis streets and gave him hope, guidance, and an opportunity to become a successful rapper. Today, shortly after the release of Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph, Kenny shares the video for “Role Model.” Adorned with lush harmonies and a heartbreaking, earnest feel, “Role Model” finds Kenny baring his soul, the South Memphis native audibly emotional when he mourns Dolph with equal parts grief and gratitude for the time they spent together: “You ever lost a part of your heart and can’t nothing soothe it?/Have you ever been sad at the ending of a good movie?”

The video for “Role Model” opens with a clip of Dolph in an interview, discussing his plans for the future of PRE to be much grander than its founder, before giving a shoutout to his latest signee, Kenny Muney. The clip appears on the big screen of a movie theater in which Kenny sits alone, remembering his mentor while displaying a range of emotions: sadness, frustration, and the motivation to use the gifts Dolph gave him and keep moving.

Remembering the tireless grind with which Dolph mentored him before eventually signing the young artist, Kenny said, “Any time I wanted some information, he never hesitated to give it to me. That’s real, and people don’t do that these days.”

Released last week, Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph features contributions from almost every artist on the label, from rising stars like Key Glock to relative newcomers like Paper Route Woo. Spanning 8 tracks, the project points to a bright future for the label that the King of Memphis built from the ground up. The project is home to “Proud,” a moving and defiant new single from Key Glock, which earned over 4 million views in its first 3 days of release and garnered praise from The New York Times, among others, and “Love For Me,” featuring a new verse from Young Dolph. With additional appearances from Memphis standouts Big Moochie Grape, Kenny Muney, SNUPE BANDZ, and Paper Route Woo, as well as Brooklyn’s Joddy Badass and Chicago’s ChiTana, who point to the diversified vision Dolph developed for PRE that extends beyond his hometown, Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph is available everywhere via Paper Route Empire.

Long Live Dolph is reflective, but it is also triumphant; Paper Route Empire will continue building on the foundation that Dolph laid. Keep an eye on the young and hungry PRE roster, as nearly every one of them plans to drop plenty of music this year. 2022 is Paper Route Szn. First up: Kenny Muney, and his imminent Time Is Muney, coming February 11th via Paper Route Empire.

Watch Kenny Muney – “Role Model”: https://youtu.be/7tlGdW2CTOk

Buy/Stream Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph: https://music.empi.re/longliveyoungdolph

Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph tracklist:

Long Live Dolph (Jay Fizzle)
Role Model (Role Model)
In Dolph We Trust (Big Moochie Grape)
Proud (Key Glock)
Fully Equipt (PRE Woo)
I Like (Joddy ft. Snupe Bandz)
Love For Me (CHITANA ft. Young Dolph)
I Know Why (Snupe Bandz)

Coming soon from Paper Route Empire:

Kenny Muney – Time is Muney (February 11th)
Key Glock – Yellow Tape 2 (Deluxe) (March 4th)

Coming in 2022:

Snupe Bandz & Paper Route Woo – Boyz in the Hood (release date TBA)
Big Moochie Grape – East Haiti Baby (release date TBA)
Jay Fizzle – DonnaFizzle (release date TBA)
Young Dolph – Paper Route Frank (release date TBA)
Joddy Badass – Who TF is Joddy (release date TBA)
Bigg Unccc – Rich Young Villain (release date TBA)
Chitana – TBD title (release date TBA)

Please contact Michelle or Kerry for more info.
Links:

Key Glock: twitter | soundcloud | instagram | spotify

Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph: https://music.empi.re/longliveyoungdolph

Key Glock – “Proud”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NeFPEAu9CA

PAPER ROUTE iLLUMINATi: https://music.empi.re/preilluminati

END

01.21.2022

Daddy Yankee, Anuel AA, Farruko Among Headliners for Baja Beach Fest 2022

Press Release

Daddy Yankee, Anuel AA, Farruko Among Headliners for Baja Beach Fest 2022

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1.21.2022

Baja Beach Fest Reveals Star-Studded Lineup for 2022 Festival; Tickets Available Now!

Daddy Yankee, Maluma, Farruko, Wisin Y Yandel, Anuel AA, & Banda MS to Headline the 2-Weekend Event

Bringing the Hottest Talents in Latin Music to Rosarito Beach, MX, North America’s Biggest Latin Music Festival Promises Performances From Reggaeton Legends, Rising Stars, and Local Mexican Heroes

Critical Praise:

“Baja Beach Fest (BBF) presented some of reggaeton and Latin trap’s biggest names, cementing the beachside event as a top-tier celebration of música urbana” – Billboard

Featured article: Baja Beach Fest Founders Aaron Ampudia And Chris Den Uijl Discuss Their Reggaeton Festival’s Cross-Border Business – Pollstar

Best New Festival in North America – USA Today’s 10 Best Reader’s Choice 2019

The Announcement:

With its beautiful beachside locale and immaculate feel-good vibes, Baja Beach Fest provides the perfect opportunity for Latin music and reggaeton fans to see their faves. Today, BBF reveals the lineup for its 2022 festival, offering the fest’s most expansive and diverse array of talent to date. Headlined by Daddy Yankee, Anuel AA, Farruko, Maluma, Wisin y Yandel, and Banda MS, Baja Beach Fest returns to Rosarito Beach, MX on August 12th-14th, 2022 and August 19th-21st, 2022. Tickets are available now on BajaBeachFest.com.

Check out photos from the 2021 Festival HERE

For its fourth annual edition, and second as a 2-weekend event, Baja Beach Fest branches out, catering to Latin music fans of all ages and tastes. As always, BBF plays host to some of the hottest names in modern reggaeton, including headliners Anuel AA and Farruko, and heavy-hitters like Sech, Jhay Cortez, Myke Towers, Jay Wheeler, Mora, and more. The 2022 lineup adds even more to love for longtime fans of the genre, promising the first-ever BBF performance by Daddy Yankee, a headlining set from Wisin y Yandel, and sets from Arcangel and Jowell & Randy. Fans of Latin Pop can enjoy Maluma, while Dembow diehards can perfect their perreo to the sounds of El Alfa and Tokischa.

The 2022 lineup reflects the festival’s proud Mexican origins, showcasing Mexican stars from different generations in prominent timeslots. Last year, Sinaloa icons Banda MS made for one of the most memorable moments in the festival, when they took the stage along with Becky G. This year, Banda MS gets a whole headlining set to themselves, and they’re looking to bring the same energy. Baja Beach Fest 2022 also marks the Rosarito debut of Natanael Cano, one of the nation’s most promising stars, who will bring his corridos tumbados to the Playa.

Baja Beach Fest 2022 follows a massively successful 2021, headlined by Anuel AA, J Balvin, Ozuna, and Karol G, along with a red hot undercard led by Rauw Alejandro, Farruko, Jhay Cortez, Becky G, and many more. A triumphant return for live Latin Music after a long absence due to the pandemic, Baja Beach Fest 2021 overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles to become the first Latin American music festival to return last year. In addition, BBF was the first festival in any location to be granted permission by local government to successfully and safely complete a second weekend in 2021. Earlier this month, Baja Beach Fest shared the two-part 2021 aftermovie, allowing fans to relive the event’s best moments.

Watch the Baja Beach Fest 2021 Aftermovie: Pt. 1 | Pt. 2

Founded by Chris Den Uijl and Aaron Ampudia as a single-day festival before expanding to two weekends in 2021, Baja Beach Fest is already an institution in global music industry, with plans of even greater expansion in the near future.

Could a stateside (maybe, lakeside?) festival be on the horizon? Stay tuned to find out which way the wind blows.

Buy tickets for Baja Beach Fest 2022 @ bajabeachfest.com

Visit BajaBeachfest.com for more info.

Baja Beach Fest Founders Aaron Ampudia (left) and Chris Den Uijl (Credit: Baja Beach Fest/Caesar Sebastian)

Please contact Michelle, Kerry. Kevin, or Myles for more info.

The Background:

When Ozuna and Mark B sang “El día está pa’ playa y arena, la vamos a pasar muy bien” in 2016, they very well may have been foreseeing the launch of the Baja Beach Fest two years later. After a remarkable inaugural year, Baja Beach Fest is back for its sophomore year, celebrating the Latin community, beach vibes, and young Latin trap/reggaeton music. The first and only festival of its kind –– Baja Beach Fest Fest is held on the sand of the oceanfront resort of Rosarito, creating an all-encompassing experience of music and coastal feels. It was imagined into existence by two friends, Chris Den Uijl and Aaron Ampudia, and dedicated to the local community who wanted to bring the world’s most streamed artists together for a weekend of music. The 2021 edition of Baja Beach Fest bought an expansion from one two-day weekend to two three-day weekends, and featured performances from headliners Anuel AA, J Balvin, Ozuna, and Karol G. Just announced, the 2022 edition brings returns Anuel AA and Farruko as headliners, and adds luminaries like Daddy Yankee, Maluma, Wisin Y Yandel, and Banda MS to the mix.

Links:

official website | instagram | facebook | twitter

Buy tickets for Baja Beach Fest 2022 @ bajabeachfest.com

Watch the Baja Beach Fest 2021 Aftermovie: https://youtu.be/EJowF7REXIQ

END

Colors.

Buy/Stream “Flossin'” ft. YoungBoy Never Broke Again: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/flossin

Internet Money’s upcoming album continues the collective’s journey from type-beat titans to in-demand kingmakers. Just last year, Internet Money earned over 40 RIAA plaques on songs they produced, including hits by Juice Wrld, Polo G, Lil Tecca, and The Kid Laroi. In addition to the new wall full of plaques, IM producers Nick Mira and DT earned a GRAMMY nomination for their work on Lil Nas X’s MONTERO. Internet Money found success as lead artists with the GOLD certified “His & Hers,” a sparkling collab with Don Toliver, Gunna, and Lil Uzi Vert, which debuted at #67 on the Billboard Hot 100, racked up over 26 million views on the Cole Bennett-directed video, earned a spot as one of the Top Global Tracks on TikTok, and received recognition from Complex, who named it the 26th best song of 2021. “His & Hers” was a worthy follow-up to “Lemonade” ft. Gunna, Don Toliver & NAV, the triple-Platinum, Billboard Top 10 2020 hit from B4 The Storm, Internet Money’s star-studded first full-length.

After two years cooking up hits and armed with a brand new studio in Santa Monica, CA, Internet Money is ready to show the world how much they’ve grown. With a guest list that mixes the rap game’s biggest stars with its most notable rising names and über-talented Internet Money Records signees, the next Internet Money album looks to be the biggest step yet toward achieving Taz Taylor’s industry-conquering ambitions. Stay tuned for much more.

Watch “His & Hers” ft. Don Toliver, NAV & Gunna: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bth7ViGGpeY

Watch “Lemonade” ft. Don Toliver, Gunna & Lil Uzi Vert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0opZqh_TprM

For more info, please contact:
Audible Treats: Michelle, Kerry or Kevin
10K Projects: Hannah

The Background:

Internet Money Background:

Starting as a type-beat factory and growing into a global powerhouse, Taz Taylor and Internet Money have earned 3 Grammy nominations, 58 platinum plaques, 33 gold, and 14 Billboard #1 hits since 2018. The collective is behind some of the biggest rap and R&B hits of the past few years, including Juice WRLD’s “Lucid Dreams” (1.3 billion Spotify streams), Trevor Daniel’s “Falling” (#1 Billboard Mainstream Pop, 37 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100 with #17 peak), Lil Tecca’s “Ransom” (700 million Spotify streams, #4 Hot 100), and XXXTentacion’s “Fuck Love” ft. Trippie Redd (the most-played song in SoundCloud history). With 2020’s B4 The Storm album, and its double-platinum single “Lemonade” ft. Gunna, Don Toliver & NAV, Taz Taylor and Internet Money confirmed their status as the music industry’s most powerful hitmaking collective.

Internet Money was born out of necessity, a hybrid company that has filled in the gaps between the rap industry, the producer community, and the online marketplace. Disillusioned with the industry, and the way he saw rap producers being taken advantage of, Taz Taylor formed the collective in 2016 as a way to share the knowledge he’d gained from years spent selling his “type beats” online and navigating the internet’s ever-growing impact on the production landscape.

Four years in, Internet Money has expanded as a collective, including Grammy-nominated producers like Nick Mira and JR Hitmaker, and produced for Drake, Trippie Redd, Juice WRLD, and many more. “When you’re in Internet Money, you get the same opportunities that I do, you’re gonna be working with the same artists that I’m working with, and getting credits with them,” Taylor says. “Instead of working with a bunch of people we don’t know, we just have our own network that’s one big family.” Following their success breaking major artists like Trevor Daniel, and co-producing his multi-platinum hit “Falling,” Taylor and Internet Money partnered with Elliot Grange’s 10K Projects in 2019 to launch their own label.

Taz Taylor Background:

Taz Taylor has never cared about fame or clout. To hear the multi-platinum producer and Internet Money founder tell it, everything he’s done — from turning his online production hustle selling “type beats” into a $500,000 per year business to forming his own label — has been born out of necessity and guided by intuition. “I’ve been so tunnel vision during the last five years to make sure I got to this point,” he says. “It was just like, Let’s keep building.”

Though the 27-year-old has only been in the industry for a few years, his accomplishments in that time have come at a staggering pace, notching, by his estimation, over 500 placements and around 200 gold and platinum plaques between himself and the other producers on his Internet Money team. As their leader, Taylor has quickly become a new sort of rap mogul, one who’s built his steadily growing empire from a deep knowledge of the ways music moves online, and he’s done it all from the humblest of beginnings.

Links:

“Flossin'” ft. YoungBoy Never Broke Again: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/flossin

“His & Hers” ft. Don Toliver, Gunna & Lil Uzi Vert:
https://internetmoney.lnk.to/hisandhers / https://youtu.be/bth7ViGGpeY

“JETSKI” ft. LIl Mosey & Lil Tecca: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/JETSKI

“Blast Off” ft. Juice WRLD & Trippie Redd: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omGrk9CdjfQ

“Lemonade” (Remix) w/ Anuel AA: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/Lemonade-Remix

“Lemonade” (Remix) w/ Roddy Ricch: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/lemonaderemix

B4 The Storm: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/b4thestorm

“Thrusting” ft. Swae Lee & Future: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/Thrusting

“Lemonade” ft. Don Toliver, NAV & Gunna: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/lemonade

“Somebody” ft. Lil Tecca & A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/somebody

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01.21.2022

Internet Money Nabs YoungBoy for “Flossin’,” Heralding Another Huge Year

Press Release

Internet Money Nabs YoungBoy for “Flossin’,” Heralding Another Huge Year

Go to Post

1.21.22

Audio: Internet Money – “Flossin’” ft. YoungBoy Never Broke Again

Critical Praise:

“[Internet Money] grew into a music industry powerhouse that helped break stars like Juice WRLD and Lil Tecca, racking up dozens of Billboard hits and platinum plaques in the process.” – Complex

“The group of beatmakers is dominating music-streaming services” – Billboard

“It seems only inevitable that these guys are just going to continue to take the world by storm, one hit at a time.” – MTV

“Even if you aren’t familiar with L.A. production collective Internet Money, you’ve heard their beats. The group’s sounds have powered some of hip-hop’s biggest records in the past couple years, from Rich the Kid’s “Plug Walk” and Juice WRLD’s “Lucid Dreams” to Drake’s “Blue Tint.” The group is helmed by Taz Taylor, a Florida native who — true to his collective’s name — has accumulated a fortune primarily through the internet.” – The FADER

The Song:

Stacking Platinum and Gold plaques by the dozen, Taz Taylor’s Internet Money has emerged as the rap industry’s dominant artist-producer collective. Coming through with their opening salvo in another banner year, Internet Money recruits YoungBoy Never Broke Again for “Flossin’,” a brand new single. Produced by Bryceunknwn, JRhitmaker, its2ezzy, Y2Tnb, & Taz Taylor, “Flossin'” takes YoungBoy’s bayou-bred sound and gives it the 4K treatment, layering glistening pianos over booming 808s and crisp handclaps, creating an ideal backdrop for the Baton Rouge native to talk his smack. YoungBoy sics himself on the track like a pit bull, alternating bluesy croons with snapping cadences as he explains how his high-flying lifestyle invites hangers-on and makes it hard for him to figure out who to trust. “Flossin” is available as a standalone single and as a bonus track on YoungBoy’s new mixtape Colors.

Buy/Stream “Flossin'” ft. YoungBoy Never Broke Again: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/flossin

Watch “His & Hers” ft. Don Toliver, NAV & Gunna: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bth7ViGGpeY

Watch “Lemonade” ft. Don Toliver, Gunna & Lil Uzi Vert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0opZqh_TprM

For more info, please contact:
Audible Treats: Michelle, Kerry or Kevin
10K Projects: Hannah

The Background:

Internet Money Background:

Taz Taylor Background:

Links:

“Flossin'” ft. YoungBoy Never Broke Again: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/flossin

“His & Hers” ft. Don Toliver, Gunna & Lil Uzi Vert:
https://internetmoney.lnk.to/hisandhers / https://youtu.be/bth7ViGGpeY

“JETSKI” ft. LIl Mosey & Lil Tecca: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/JETSKI

“Blast Off” ft. Juice WRLD & Trippie Redd: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omGrk9CdjfQ

“Lemonade” (Remix) w/ Anuel AA: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/Lemonade-Remix

“Lemonade” (Remix) w/ Roddy Ricch: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/lemonaderemix

B4 The Storm: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/b4thestorm

“Thrusting” ft. Swae Lee & Future: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/Thrusting

“Lemonade” ft. Don Toliver, NAV & Gunna: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/lemonade

“Somebody” ft. Lil Tecca & A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie: https://internetmoney.lnk.to/somebody

END

01.21.2022

Paper Route Empire Honors Young Dolph and Puts Stamp on 2022 with Heartfelt Project

Press Release

Paper Route Empire Honors Young Dolph and Puts Stamp on 2022 with Heartfelt Project

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1.21.2022

Paper Route Empire Honors Founder/CEO Young Dolph with New Mixtape, Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph

The First Release of a Busy 2022 for the Premier Indie Label Features Key Glock’s New Single “Proud,” an Unheard Verse from Dolph, and Songs by Big Moochie Grape, Snupe Bandz, and the Rest of the PRE Roster #LongLiveDolph

The Mixtape:

Leading by example, Young Dolph never stopped working to secure the futures of his family, his community, and the artists he took under his wing. Today, Dolph’s talented roster of artists at Paper Route Empire unite for Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph, a new compilation project that pays tribute to the legacy of the King of Memphis.

Spanning 8 tracks, the project features contributions from almost every artist on Paper Route Empire. Jay Fizzle, PRE’s longest-tenured signee, leads the tape with the Ricco Barrino-assisted, gospel-inflected “LLD,” a tribute to the man who he credits with helping his 16 year-old self escape the streets. Kenny Muney offers a plaintive remembrance of his mentor using one of Dolph’s signature phrases on “Role Model,” and Big Moochie Grape defiantly claims his intention to take Paper Route Empire to new heights on “In Dolph We Trust.” On recent single “Proud,” Key Glock declares “F*** that humble s***, let’s go, you know I’m spazzin’ out ‘bout mine.”

Long Live Dolph showcases the talents of PRE artists, pointing to a bring future for the label that Dolph built from the ground up. Artists like Memphis natives Snupe Bandz and Paper Route Woo demonstrate the cold calculation and drawled-out bars that fit the label’s established aesthetic. Meanwhile, like Brooklyn’s Joddy Badass and Chicago’s ChiTana point to the diversified vision Dolph developed for PRE, one that extends beyond his hometown. Dolph himself makes his presence felt on the mixtape, through interview snippets, lyrical references, and “Love For Me,” a newly-released song that pairs Dolph with ChiTana.

“Of the many definitions of the word ‘Empire,’ the one that stands out the most is ‘a large conglomerate, ruled by a superior authority, especially an Emperor.’ And Dolph was just that. He moved through this earth with the grace of a King. He led us through this industry with strategy, knowing that there were obstacles. And with his foresight, those obstacles were, and will continue to be unsuccessful.

In this life, the measure of a man isn’t what you managed to acquire, it’s how you treated other people. Did your life have meaning. Did you give more than you received. We are so grateful that his legacy has been solidified not by what he had, but what he accomplished. Since his passing, the outpouring of love and support has been overwhelming. And for this we are eternally grateful.

As a family, we are grieving. As an organization, we have never been stronger or more prepared to continue building on the foundation that Dolph set for us.

Every artist on the label–Key Glock, Jay Fizzle, Moochie Grape, Kenny Muney, Joddy Badass, ChiTana, Big Unc, Snupe Bandz, and Paper Route Woo–were all hand picked, because beyond talent, he saw in them the same hunger and determination he saw in himself. He spent time cultivating them as artists, and mentored them until they discovered their own greatness. Each one is more than ready to fulfill their destiny. And they have the support of this entire Empire behind them.

PRE is unstoppable. And we have proven this time and time again. We thank you all again for your love and support as we continue forward.

“LONG LIVE YOUNG DOLPH. LONG LIVE THE MIGHTY PAPER ROUTE EMPIRE”

— Daddyo, Paper Route Empire CEO

Buy/Stream Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph: https://music.empi.re/longliveyoungdolph

Watch Key Glock – “Proud”: https://youtu.be/8NeFPEAu9CA

Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph tracklist:

Long Live Dolph (Jay Fizzle)
Role Model (Role Model)
Proud (Key Glock)
In Dolph We Trust (Big Moochie Grape)
Fully Equipt (PRE Woo)
I Like (Joddy ft. Snupe Bandz)
Love For Me (CHITANA ft. Young Dolph)
I Know Why (Snupe Bandz)

Coming soon from Paper Route Empire:

Kenny Muney – Time is Muney (February 11th)
Key Glock – Yellow Tape 2 (Deluxe) (March 4th)

Coming in 2022:

Snupe Bandz & Paper Route Woo – Boyz in the Hood (release date TBA)
Big Moochie Grape – East Haiti Baby (release date TBA)
Jay Fizzle – DonnaFizzle (release date TBA)
Young Dolph – Paper Route Frank (release date TBA)
Joddy Badass – Who TF is Joddy (release date TBA)
Bigg Unccc – Rich Young Villain (release date TBA)
Chitana – TBD title (release date TBA)

Please contact Michelle or Kerry for more info.

Links:

Key Glock: twitter | soundcloud | instagram | spotify

Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph: https://music.empi.re/longliveyoungdolph

Key Glock – “Proud”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8NeFPEAu9CA

“Long Live Dolph”: https://music.empi.re/longliveyoungdolph

PAPER ROUTE iLLUMINATi: https://music.empi.re/preilluminati

END

01.21.2022

Lil Tati & CJ Bring Dreams to Life Behind Suicide Doors

Press Release

Lil Tati & CJ Bring Dreams to Life Behind Suicide Doors

Go to Post

1.20.2022

Video: Lil Tati – “Came Up” ft. CJ

Miami’s Hottest Newcomer Teams with Staten Island’s CJ on Silky, Drill Banger from Tati’s Debut Project, NiNET33N

Critical Praise:

“It’s as if his voice is an instrument, incessant but laid-back, finding hidden pockets within his sonic palette that maintain a feeling of cohesiveness. Nothing about Tati’s creative process feels forced, teetering between a melodic drawl and soft-spoken croons to accentuate his natural talent.” – Dirty Glove Bastard

“NiNET33N serves as an exercise in versatility, as Tati expertly morphs his sound and delivery with each track.” –OnSmash

The Video:

Closing out 2021 with the release of his 10-track debut, NiNET33N, Miami up-and-comer Lil Tati is showing no signs of slowing in the new year. Seated comfortably between his Rolls-Royce suicide doors on the road to bigger things, Lil Tati returns to reflect on the winding path of obstacles overcome in his rearview mirror with new visuals for “Came Up.” Featuring an appearance from “Whoopty” hitmaker, CJ, the track is a standout from the CFMB Records signee’s debut effort which sees Tati floating like a feather over a filmy, drill-infused instrumental.

The Jolo-directed visuals shows Tati soaking in the spoils of his stellar breakout year in the back of a Rolls-Royce, atop a leather-clad throne and with ten toes down, flanked by a flock of lovely ladies each step of the way. Despite the two artists’ shared Puerto Rican heritage, each brings their own unique sound and set of influences that transcend regionality. Tati’s velvetine vocals and fastidious flows combine with CJ’s dogged, dynamic delivery to create a vibey, layered experience with wide-ranging musical flavors and a chemistry on record which seamlessly translates to the screen in this drill-tinged mosaic.

“Honestly it was truly a blessing doing this record. CJ is really close with our label, so you already know it was like family. Then I saw him in the studio one day and it was history from there. It was really exciting making the video with my boi CJ, it was truly a movie!” – Lil Tati

“Came Up” is the latest track from NiNET33N to receive visuals, following the video single for his collaboration with dancehall legend, Movado, “Up Late.” Available everywhere via CFMB Records, NiNET33N marks both Tati’s coming-of-age and a legacy coming full circle. The album’s title comes from the significance of the number nineteen, which not only marks Tati’s age upon his debut release, but the age his father was when Tati was born.

Music has always dominated Tati’s life, before he was even making it himself. He watched his father, Frank Miami, go from cutting hair at a barber shop to managing then-bubbling acts Farruko and Lary Over to later forming Carbon Fiber Music in 2014. The label is a Latin music powerhouse, home to the aforementioned acts, along with a number of heavy hitting artists and producers. While it’s inevitably a new era for Carbon Fiber Music as it extends its English-speaking-focused Billionaire arm, it’s a new era for Lil Tati as well. He is an extension of a legacy that has been cultivated over the last decade, only now he is a part of it on his own terms with his own sound.

With NiNET33N, Lil Tati stamped out a name for himself as the stars align for this undeniable talent. Stay tuned for much more in 2022.

Watch “Came Up” ft. CJ: https://youtu.be/V_ZKaWGA_N0

Buy/Stream “Came Up” ft. CJ: https://liltati.lnk.to/cameup

Buy/Stream NiNET33N: https://liltati.lnk.to/ninet33nan

NiNET33N tracklist:

Blah Blah Blah
Fed Up
Gucci Slides
Came Up ft. CJ
Turnt
She Got It ft. Farruko
Who Is The One
Handstand
Ball Out
Up Late ft. Mavado

https://youtu.be/V_ZKaWGA_N0

Credit: luievilleandcompany

Please contact Michelle or K erry for more info.

Links:

instagram | tiktok | spotify

“Came Up” ft. CJ: https://youtu.be/V_ZKaWGA_N0

NiNET33N: https://liltati.lnk.to/ninet33nan

“Up Late”: https://liltati.lnk.to/uplps / www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGKgUOxlDpQ

END

01.19.2022

“Pushin P,” Papa Roach, “Pompeii” and More Music Trends from TikTok

01.19.2022

Lil Yee Flirts and Fibs in New “Lie Together” Video

Press Release

Lil Yee Flirts and Fibs in New “Lie Together” Video

Go to Post

1.18.2022

Video: Lil Yee – “Lie Together“

San Francisco’s Lil Yee Raps About Love, Loss, and Life in the Streets in Latest Video from Recent Project, Unbreakable

The Video:

Using music as an outlet to reconcile with the trauma of his past, Lil Yee has made his name in his hometown of San Francisco with his unique, melodic spin on musical lament. Through his deeply personal lyricism and earnest delivery, Lil Yee has established a relationship with his listeners that makes each release feel less like a rap song and more like a late night phone call with a dear friend. Carrying his momentum from the December release of his latest project, Unbreakable, into the new year, Lil Yee returns to share the video for his lilting lovesick ballad, “Lie Together.”

Directed by Esoteric, the visuals closely mirror the themes of the track, opening with a relationship vignette: Yee on a FaceTime call with a lover who falsely accuses him of lying about being at the studio. As the track begins, Lil Yee’s mind meanders through the grief he can’t escape: the loss of loved ones, the love of lost ones, and the inescapability of the streets. Cutting to and from scenes of Yee standing alone in the shadow of darkness, surrounded by homies in the light of day, and even rapping beneath his hometown’s billboard advertising his project, Unbreakable, the video perfectly captures the full spectrum of emotions that Yee exhibits on the track.

“Lie Together” is the third music video from Unbreakable, following clips for “Going Crazy” and “Dead & Gone” ft. Lil Bean. Unbreakable is the first full-length release from Lil Yee since 2019’s Live 4 It, Die 4 It, which saw the Bay Area rapper expand his sound beyond the traditional Mob music styles of his hometown into the melodic trap stylings of Atlanta and the snapping West Coast sound favored in L.A. and the East Bay. In 2021, Yee featured prominently on trap superproducer Zaytoven’s compilation mixtape, Zaytoven Presents: Fo15, dedicated to the city of San Francisco and exclusively featuring the city’s hottest artists.With Unbreakable, available everywhere via EMPIRE, Yee proved that his blend of pain music can stand up to anyone on the West Coast and beyond.

Watch “Lie Together”: https://youtu.be/D0wCE8N-1iY

Buy/Stream Unbreakable: https://music.empi.re/unbreakable

Unbreakable Tracklist:

Going Crazy
Unbreakable
Next To Me ft PnB Rock
Detroit to Divisadero ft Babyface Ray
Dear Chi
Free the Homie Team ft Lil Pete
4 Eva Ride
Come From ft Shaun Sloan
Dead & Gone ft Lil Bean
HTF? Ft TEC
Lie Together
Wavy
Flawless (ft Rexx Life Raj)

Please contact Michelle or T’Keyah for more info.

The Background:

San Francisco rapper Lil Yee’s first three songs all reached more than a million people before he ever signed a record deal. “So Lost,” “We Livin’ Hopeless,” and “War” built a dedicated fan-base. From the historic Fillmore District, Yee is influenced by 1990s greats from his neighborhood such as San Quinn, Rappin’ 4-Tay, and Messy Marv. This rapper of Black and Puerto Rican heritage raps about loss, reaching for a better lifestyle, and a Bay Area underbelly that goes overlooked. 2019’s Live 4 It, Die 4 It built on that story, with production by Zaytoven and features from Mozzy, E-40, and FMB DZ while his 2021 album, Unbreakable, further cements his determination against all odds with features by PnB Rock, Babyface Ray, Rexx Life Raj, and more.

Links:

youtube | soundcloud | instagram

“Lie Together”: https://youtu.be/D0wCE8N-1iY

“Dead & Gone” ft. Lil Bean: https://youtu.be/sG6Q30imsYc / https://music.empi.re/deadandgone

“Going Crazy”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YqQA3GgvYfQ

Pre-save Unbreakable: https://music.empi.re/unbreakable

Bio, photos, and streams available here: https://audibletreats.com/lil-yee/

END

01.19.2022

Paper Route Empire Announces 2022 Releases, Shares Key Glock’s “Proud”

Press Release

Paper Route Empire Announces 2022 Releases, Shares Key Glock’s “Proud”

Go to Post

1.18.2022

Paper Route Empire Releases Key Glock’s “Proud” + Announces 2022 Release Schedule

2022 Albums Include Young Dolph + Full-Lengths From All PRE Artists

Starting Friday with the Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph Compilation, Paper Route Empire Honors Dolph’s Legacy By Doing It Big in 2022

#LLD

A STATEMENT FROM PAPER ROUTE EMPIRE’S CEO:

As a family, we are grieving. As an organization, we have never been stronger or more prepared to continue building on the foundation that Dolph set for us.

PRE is unstoppable. And we have proven this time and time again. We thank you all again for your love and support as we continue forward.

LONG LIVE YOUNG DOLPH. LONG LIVE THE MIGHTY PAPER ROUTE EMPIRE”

— Daddyo, Paper Route Empire CEO

The Announcement:

Always hustling hard to put on talented artists who lived up to his high standards, Young Dolph dedicated his career to building a Paper Route Empire in his hometown. His roster of Paper Route Empire artists are carrying his legacy in 2022 and beyond. Today, Paper Route Empire announces their upcoming slate of releases, demonstrating why it’s one of the most successful independent labels in music. Today, PRE releases the heartfelt song, “Proud” by Key Glock.

To start 2022, Paper Route Empire takes the time to honor the King of Memphis with Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph, a compilation dedicated to the legendary rapper, label’s co-founder, and CEO. The upcoming mixtape features contributions from the full PRE roster, including Key Glock, Big Moochie Grape, Kenny Muney, Jay Fizzle, Joddy Badass, Snupe Bandz, Paper Route Woo, and Chitana. Dolph’s presence blesses the entire album, whether in snippets of old interviews or on tribute tracks like “LLD” by Jay Fizzle, the album’s first single, which dropped last week. Long Live Dolph also features an unheard verse from Dolph himself, on a collaboration with one of his PRE artists. Following up last summer’s PAPER ROUTE iLLUMINATi, a project that affirmed Dolph’s imperial ambitions and showcased the wide-ranging talents of his disciples, Long Live Dolph releases this Friday, January 21st, via Paper Route Empire.

Long Live Dolph is reflective, but it is also triumphant; Paper Route Empire will continue building on the foundation that Dolph laid. 2022 is Paper Route Szn.

Pre-order/Pre-save Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph: https://music.empi.re/longliveyoungdolph

Buy/Stream Key Glock “Proud”: https://music.empi.re/longliveyoungdolph

Watch Key Glock – “Proud”: https://youtu.be/8NeFPEAu9CA

#LLD

Coming soon:

Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph (January 21st)
Kenny Muney – Time is Muney (February 11th)
Key Glock – Yellow Tape 2 (Deluxe) (March 4th)

Coming in 2022:

Snupe Bandz & Paper Route Woo – Boyz in the Hood (release date TBA)
Big Moochie Grape – East Haiti Baby (release date TBA)
Jay Fizzle – DonnaFizzle (release date TBA)
Young Dolph – Paper Route Frank (release date TBA)
Joddy Badass – Who TF is Joddy (release date TBA)
Bigg Unccc – Rich Young Villain (release date TBA)
Chitana – TBD title (release date TBA)

Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph tracklist:

Long Live Dolph (Jay Fizzle)
Role Model (Role Model)
In Dolph We Trust (Big Moochie Grape)
Proud (Key Glock)
Fully Equipt (PRE Woo)
I Like (Joddy ft. Snupe Bandz)
Love For Me (CHITANA ft. Young Dolph)
I Know Why (Snupe Bandz)

Please contact Michelle or Kerry for more info.

Links:

Watch “Proud” by Key Glock: https://youtu.be/8NeFPEAu9CA

Pre-save Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph: https://music.empi.re/longliveyoungdolph

END

01.19.2022

Xavier Wulf Goes Dumb at a Car Show in “TOP DEAD CENTER”

Press Release

Xavier Wulf Goes Dumb at a Car Show in “TOP DEAD CENTER”

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1.18.2022

Watch Xavier Wulf Perform “TOP DEAD CENTER” at Cali Car Show

The Hollow Squad Chieftain Thrills Fans Amidst a Collection of One-Of-One Cars in a Recap Video Scored by a GARAGE PUNK EP Highlight

The Recap:

A cult figure known for building bridges between the underground and mainstream, Xavier Wulf proudly charts his own path through the rap game. Today, Xavier Wulf shares a new recap video from his latest performance, where he brought out a cadre of devoted fans to a SoCal car show. The new recap video is set to the sounds of “TOP DEAD CENTER,” a highlight from Wulf’s recent GARAGE PUNK EP. Produced by Quintin Lamb, a producer and member of Wulf’s Hollow Squad, “TOP DEAD CENTER” is an ominous slapper equally suited for lowrider cruises, video game water levels, and haunted house waiting rooms. Economically annihilating the beat in a lightning quick 70 seconds, Wulf works a lockstep triplet flow as he annihilates his opposition in record time: “I remember when you didn’t wanna see me win/Now you pretend and lie to them as if we been friends.” The new “TOP DEAD CENTER”-scored recap video finds Wulf rocking a rabid crowd at a rare vehicle show, as the camera pans from close-ups of the Hollow Squad die hards to loving shots of the custom whips on display.

Watch “TOP DEAD CENTER”: https://youtu.be/X5iaGAhtRAI

Buy/Stream GARAGE PUNK: http://ffm.to/garagepunk

Buy Xavier Wulf merch, including the new GARAGE PUNK items: https://moonstonecove.com

Please contact Michelle or Kevin if interested in talking with Xavier Wulf.

Links:

“TOP DEAD CENTER”: https://youtu.be/X5iaGAhtRAI

GARAGE PUNK: http://ffm.to/garagepunk

“SILVER FANG WULF”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUaIuRxNB6Q

RUDE DOG: https://music.empi.re/rudedog

END

01.14.2022

Highbridge’s Lil Rekk Lays His Heart On The Line With ‘1ONE’ Project

Press Release

Highbridge’s Lil Rekk Lays His Heart On The Line With ‘1ONE’ Project

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1.14.2022

**Lil Rekk Shares 1ONE, Out Now via Highbridge The Label/EMPIRE**

The North Philly Native Leaves His Doubters Behind With “PTSD” Video

The Highbridge The Label Riser Wears His Heart On His Sleeve For 1ONE Project, Featuring An Appearance from 42 Dugg

Critical Praise:

The Project + Video:

With the combination of upbeat tempos and authentic lyrics, Lil Rekk (pronounced “Lil Reek”) is ready to be the next North Philadelphia rapper to step into the limelight. Showing that he’s ready to run with the big dogs, Rekk shares 1ONE, his new project. Titled after a nickname Rekk was given by his homies in North Philly (pronounced “one-one”), 1ONE puts forth 12 tracks that each offer a glimpse into the different facets of Rekk’s personality. Lil Rekk’s version of “pain music” is not only meant to be therapeutic to his fans, but also an affirmation to himself that he’s moving forward in the right direction.

The new project is home to two recent singles, “Time” and “Ooters,” the latter of which has racked up 1.5 million views on YouTube since its mid-November release. The project provides a good mix of emotional songs and street-savvy slaps. On tape highlight “Bipolar,” Rekk shouts out anyone who’s been through the ups and downs of a relationship rapping, “One day you say that you love me / the next day you hate me / baby you so bipolar.” He lets his casual bravado shine through over booming 808s on “Get Money,” a bright and confident hustler’s anthem. 1ONE stands as a statement of growth, showing that Rekk is truly one of a kind. Featuring one guest appearance from 42 Dugg, 1ONE is available everywhere now via EMPIRE/Highbridge The Label.

Along with his new project, Lil Rekk shares “PTSD,” his new Watsynfilmz-directed video. Showing that his charisma doesn’t only shine through in the studio, the video finds Rekk performing live to hundreds of his screaming fans. The video frequently catches Rekk pointing to the sky as he lets his loyal fans know that the only place he’s going is up. Laced with heavy bass beats, Rekk lets it be known that he’s always looking over his shoulder, rapping: “Ain’t no love in the street no more, gotta watch my heart / my b**** say she love me but she ain’t been playin’ her part.”

Born and raised in North Philly, Rekk only started focusing on his musical career in 2019 after he watched one of his friends get into the rap game. Inspired by his friend’s hustle, Rekk found his own footing in the industry and has since released two full-length albums, The Ticket in 2019 and World Plus in 2021. The latter album has found mainstream success with Rekk’s “So So Dangerous” featuring Stunna Gambino & YXNG K.A receiving over 2.4 million views on YouTube. Now signed to Highbridge The Label, Lil Rekk is ready to bring his confident and relatable street music to his ever growing fanbase.

With 1ONE, Lil Rekk is ready to prove that he’s next out of Philly, and ready to follow his Highbridge labelmates A Boogie and Don Q to stardom.

Buy/Stream 1ONE: https://music.empi.re/1one

Watch “PTSD”: https://youtu.be/MgKytRcuTlw

1ONE tracklist:

Confetti
Get Money
Game Time
PTSD
Acting Strange
Ooters
So Bipolar
Dog S***
Kiddin’ Me
Outta Control
Double Tap ft. 42 Dugg
Time

Please contact Michelle or T ‘Keyah for more info.

The Background:

Links:

instagram | twitter | youtube | spotify

Buy/Stream 1ONE: https://music.empi.re/1xabmnj

“PTSD”: https://youtu.be/MgKytRcuTlw

“Confetti” (Live): https://youtu.be/Lu8FUZ-e3n0

“Time”: https://youtu.be/wuAvhG3owIg / https://youtu.be/wuAvhG3owIg

“Ooters”: https://music.empi.re/ooters / https://youtu.be/VSXzYcCWNJs

“Game Time”: https://music.empi.re/gametime

END

01.14.2022

Chino Cappin Prepares for ‘Permanently Scarred,’ Drops Cinematic “Ed, Edd, Eddy” Video with 21 Lil Harold

Press Release

Chino Cappin Prepares for ‘Permanently Scarred,’ Drops Cinematic “Ed, Edd, Eddy” Video with 21 Lil Harold

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1.14.2021

Chino Cappin Prepares for Permanently Scarred, His Next Project, Coming January 28th via Alamo Records

The Sweet-Singing GA Native Connects with 21 Lil Harold for a Crime Caper in the Cartoon Network-Referencing “Ed, Edd, Eddy” Video

Chino Cappin Looks to Put His Stamp on 2022 With His Upcoming Full-Length, Home to Buzzing Singles like “Demon” and “Last Time” ft. PopLord

Critical Praise:

“It seems Chino Cappin’ has found his own lane, and he performs best when he puts his impressive voice to use.” – HotNewHipHop

“He explores his relationships with his loved ones on the deeply personal track” – UPROXX

“Dirty South influences and driving top lines set Chino Cappin apart” – Dummy Mag

The Announcement:

Rising in the ATL scene with his silky smooth blend of hard-nosed rap and tuneful R&B, Chino Cappin is ready to take his next step on the ladder to stardom. Detailing his life as a burgeoning star as he explores the pain that made him who he is, Chino announces Permanently Scarred, his next project. The 21-year-old artist is blessed with raspy tenor and a nimble delivery that allows him to switch seamlessly between acrobatic vocal runs and triplet rhymes. On Permanently Scarred, Chino levels up his songwriting, combining his supreme vocal skills with a refined lyrical approach: on songs like “Been A Minute” and recent single “Permanently Scarred,” Chino displays the determination that allowed him to escape a troubled past, and on uptempo numbers like “Money Crazy” and “Toxic,” he proves why he’s one of the most eligible bachelors in the Atlanta area. Home to buzzing singles like “Last Time,” a collaboration with Atlanta’s PopLord that has over 1.4 million views on YouTube, and “Demon,” which has over 470k of its own, Permanently Scarred arrives on January 28th via Alamo Records.

Along with the official announcement of Permanently Scarred, Chino shares the video for “Ed, Edd, Eddy,” his latest single. Originally shared as a live performance on 4 Shooters Only and a snippet that earned an IG shoutout from 21 Savage, the new single is an uptempo and braggadocious heater, as Chino talks his smack with an infectiously rhythmic flow: “Count a hunnid with my eyes closed, tell me how that feel now?” The Cartoon Network-referencing single adds a verse from 21 Lil Harold, who weaves between bass blasts with a casual menace. In the video, directed by BPace & Nash B, Chino and Lil Harold command a squadron of masked baddies, ordering them to teach a lesson to a former friend who squealed to the feds. Switching between color and black-and-white and juggling multiple timelines, the video is a stylish confirmation of Chino’s rock-solid street bonafides.

2021 was a busy year for Chino Cappin, as he continued his rise out of his small hometown of Fort Valley, GA on his way to the top of the ATL hip-hop scene. The artist shared Ladders, his first project released by Alamo, characterized by his relatable lyricism and infectious vocal lines. Home to recent videos like the Willie Hutch-sampling “Money On My Mind” and the playful “Still Loading,” Ladders drips with the bravado of a man confident in his abilities. In June, Chino shared F*CC It BaCC To The BasiCs, a new mixtape that finds Chino rhyming over instrumentals from all eras, focusing on R&B and rap from the early ’00s, including samples of songs by Moneybagg Yo, Usher, and more. As built buzz with singles like the sultry break-up anthem “Fake Love” and the Metro Marrs-featuring “Hot Sh*t,” Chino earned praise from UPROXX and Dummy Mag, told his story in an interview with Dirty-Glove Bastard, and accompanied K Camp on his “Float Tour” in the fall.

On the upcoming Permanently Scarred, Chino shows that he’s ready to explode out of his hometown in rural Georgia and draw new connections between rap and R&B on a national scale. Be prepared: 2022 begins Chino Cappin Szn.

Watch “Ed, Edd, Eddy” ft. 21 Lil Harold: https://youtu.be/LgtGUY2VqcU

Buy/Stream “Ed, Edd, Eddy” ft. 21 Lil Harold: http://lnk.to/ChinoCappinEdEddEddy

Please contact Michelle, Kevin, or T’Keyah for more info.

The Background:

Chino Cappin is a lyricist and singer of many hats. First and foremost, he’s the voice of the streets, with a background in the slums that has given him the creative drive to progress in the packed hip-hop industry. But in addition to his rough and gruff image, he’s a fun-loving goofball, intense creative, and mastermind of charisma. With co-signs from No Jumper and the UK’s Dummy Mag, it’s clear many people from around the world have begun to tune in to hear what Chino’s been saying and continues to say. To date, Chino has amassed over 1.1 million streams, 900,000+ views, and an Instagram following of 28k+. These are authentic, consistent numbers that reveal a fanbase genuinely attracted to Chino in all capacities. His impact can be attributed to his authentic approach to rap and, surprisingly, his process of making music which is a unique take on two well-tested methods. He typically looks to select beats that evoke emotion and then lay down melodies and write to them. However, he also enjoys going off the top with whatever he’s feeling in the moment as well.

Links:

instgram | twitter | youtube | soundcloud | spotify

“Ed, Edd & Eddy” ft. 21 Lil Harold: https://youtu.be/LgtGUY2VqcU

“Ed Edd & Eddy” (Live): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kLBkeZBh500

“Last Time” ft. PopLord: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PB0C-R-WaQU

“Demon”: https://youtu.be/BhvWizA85FI

“Money On My Mind”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PQ0euPk48zU

Ladders: http://smarturl.it/ChinoCappinLadders

“Still Loading”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDF7g0rnQBo

“Hot Sh*t” ft. Metro Marrs: http://smarturl.it/HotShitChinoCappin / https://youtu.be/OXwn5jZWgT0

F*CC It BaCC To The BasiCs: https://soundcloud.com/chinocappin/sets/fucc-it-bacc-to-the-basics / https://mymixtapez.com/album/244350

“ZaKeisha”: https://youtu.be/nOrnGO2V3vs

“On My Last”: http://SmartURL.it/OnMyLastChinoCappin / https://youtu.be/nOrnGO2V3vs

“Shine”: http://lnk.to/ChinoCappinShine / https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qmy1SABv3RI

“Fake Love”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43UaRZedBeA

“Lap Dance”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cc5nwbQZifw

“NaNaNa”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EbSuagXCqaw

END

01.14.2022

Wiz Khalifa & Larry June Chill with Sledgren in a New Video

Press Release

Wiz Khalifa & Larry June Chill with Sledgren in a New Video

Go to Post

1.14.2022

Video: Sledgren – “Chill With Me” ft. Wiz Khalifa & Larry June

Taylor Gang’s Top Producer Recruits Two Masters of Mellow for a Weeded-Out New Jam

Critical Praise:

“Pittsburgh-born producer Sledgren builds a sonic story using video game sounds and vintage records.” – DJ Booth/Audiomack

“Sledgren has probably produced one of your favorite Wiz Khalifa — who he’s known since the artist was a teen — records” – REVOLT

“The Taylor Gang producer has not only been around since Wiz’s early beginnings, he also helped shaped the sound of some of Wiz’s smoother cuts.” – HipHopDX

The Video:

A trusted source for wavy clouds of sound for more than a decade, Pittsburgh producer Sledgren excels at crafting expansive worlds for your favorite rappers to inhabit. Teaming up with two of his favorite collaborators, Sledgren shares “Chill With Me,” a new song with appearances from multi-platinum selling, Grammy and Golden Globe nominated recording artist Wiz Khalifa and Larry June, available everywhere via Taylor Gang Ent./EMPIRE. Layering sweeping synths and subsonic bass over clicking percussion, the immersive “Chill With Me” brims with colorful details–notice the way the piercing synth melody gradually morphs into a wistful flute as the song proceeds, mimicking the pleasant fade from reality that accompanies a successful trip. The rappers seamlessly fit the vibe–Sledgren was inspired by Roy Ayers’ seminal hit “Everybody Loves The Sunshine” when he made the beat–as Wiz stacks easygoing flexes and Larry reminds fans that he’s just a phone call away if they want to chill.

Directed by David Camarena, the luxurious new video perfectly translates the song’s inviting atmosphere. Posting up in an ornate mansion, the two rappers and producer gather a crew and show us how they chill. Wiz holds court with a cigar-sized blunt, while a bucket hat-clad Larry sips orange juice as he and Sledgren hotbox the mansion’s study.

A close confidante of Wiz Khalifa’s since the two were high school students in Pittsburgh, Sledgren’s blissful beats came to define the sound of his city, through his work on classic projects like Wiz’s Kush & Orange Juice and Mac Miller‘s GO:OD AM, Sledgren’s supreme chill and fastidious attention to detail have earned him the respect of the game’s finest rappers, with luminaries such as Curren$y, Babyface Ray, Starlito, Doe Boy, and more rhyming over his production. Signed to Taylor Gang for more than a decade, Sledgren showed off his artistry on a series of instrumental tapes–including last year’s Enigma and Sagittarius Luv 2–which fully explore his impressive ability to create immersive and atmospheric soundscapes. Last month, Sledgren connected with Wiz and Cardo Got Wingz for Wiz Got Wingz, a full-length project produced entirely by Sledgren and Cardo, in which Wiz returns to the sound that defined his 2010 mixtape, Kush & Orange Juice.

“Wiz and I create the same way, we just live in two different places,” says Sledgren. “Our chemistry is still the same, our process still the same. We might just work over the net more now.”

The founder of Glitch Realm, a lifestyle brand and collective of like-minded producers, Sledgren never stops working. With more singles and a solo project on the way, the Pittsburgh native looks to earn proper recognition as one of the most talented producers in the game today.

Watch “Chill With Me” ft. Wiz Khalifa & Larry June: https://youtu.be/p0gRoOLp1kQ

Buy/Stream “Chill With Me” ft. Wiz Khalifa & Larry June: https://music.empi.re/chillwithme

Credit: Daniel Kelly

Please contact Michelle or Myles if interested in talking with Sledgren.

Wiz Khalifa Contacts:
Dvora Englefield Dvora.Englefield@ledecompany.com
Courtni Asbury Courtni.Asbury@ledecompany.com
Chris Iacullo Chris.Iacullo@ledecompany.com

The Background:

About Sledgren

Sledgren is a Pittsburgh-based producer with over twenty years of experience working with artists of varying levels. He first launched his career while producing for the Taylor Gang rapper Wiz Khalifa and continues to tour and create with the team to this day. While he’s been behind the scenes touting production credits for Taylor Gang for years, Sledgren found himself working on projects including the GO:OD AM album by Mac Miller and Wiz Got Wings by Wiz Khalifa and Cardo.

About Wiz Khalifa:

Multi-platinum selling, Grammy and Golden Globe nominated recording artist Wiz Khalifa burst onto the scene with mainstream success with the release of his first major label debut album, ROLLING PAPERS in 2011. ROLLING PAPERS spawned the hugely successful hits “Black and Yellow,” “Roll Up,” and “No Sleep” and gave Wiz the platform to win the award for “Best New Artist” at the 2011 BET Awards and “Top New Artist” at the 2012 Billboard Music Awards. As a follow up to ROLLING PAPERS, Wiz Released O.N.I.F.C. in 2012. This album featured tracks “Work Hard, Play Hard” and “Remember You” featuring The Weeknd. His third studio album released in 2014, BLACC HOLLYWOOD, debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top 200 album chart and included hit single “We DemBoyz.” Soon after, Wiz’s track, “See You Again,” off the FURIOUS 7 soundtrack, catapulted to the top of the charts across 95 countries. Holding the #1 spot for 12 consecutive weeks, “See You Again” broke records by being Spotify’s most-streamed track in a single day in the United States and in a single week in 26 countries. In addition to winning 3 Teen Choice Awards in 2015, “See You Again” continued its success by winning a Critics’ Choice Award in the “Best Song” category, winning two Billboard Music Awards in the categories “Top Hot 100 Song” and “Top Rap Song,” earning three Grammy Award nominations in the categories “Song of the Year,” “Best Pop Duo/Group Performance,” and “Best Song Written for Visual Media,” and a Golden Globe nomination in the category “Best Original Song – Motion Picture.” Wiz released his album, KHALIFA, in February 2016 as a thank you to fans which included the tracks “Bake Sale” featuring Travis Scott and “Elevated.” In June of the same year, Wiz collaborated with Juicy J and TM88 to debut TGOD MAFIA PRESENTS: RUDE AWAKENING and embarked on his co-headlining “The High Road Summer Tour” with Snoop Dogg. On April 20th, 2017, Wiz launched his mobile app, Wiz Khalifa’s Weed Farm, which has garnered over 10.1 million downloads and is currently being played in over eight countries and six languages. Later that year, Wiz’s mixtape, LAUGH NOW, FLY LATER, was released in November and featured the chart-topping hit, “Letterman.” His latest studio album, ROLLING PAPERS 2, which is certified gold, was released in July 2018. Following the release, Wiz and rap duo Rae Sremmurd hit the road for their “Dazed and Blazed Tour” throughout summer 2018. In February 2018, Wiz partnered with Sovereign Brands to create McQueen and the Violet Fog, an Award winning gin and rated by the NY Times as the “Best Gin”. In April of 2019, Wiz released his 5-part docuseries with Apple Music, “Wiz Khalifa: Behind the Cam,” which gives viewers an exclusive look into his life and career. In the summer of 2019, Wiz went on his “Decent Exposure Summer Tour” with French Montana, Moneybagg Yo, Chevy Woods, and DJ Drama. In November 2019, Wiz starred in Apple TV+’s “Dickinson,” as the re-occuring character of Death alongside Hailee Steinfeld. The third and final season will debut on Novemeber 5, 2021. Wiz is also a series regular in Fox’s animated sitcom, “Duncanville” which premiered February 2020 and is current airing it’s second season. On 4/20 of 2020, Wiz released his latest project, The Saga of Wiz Khalifa, which features his tracks, “Contact”, featuring Tyga and his latest single, “Still Wiz”. In October of 2020, Wiz, along with Nextbite, launched his latest business venture, a delivery only restaurant chain, HotBox by Wiz. The restaurant is now in all major metro areas. In February of 2021, Wiz released his latest playlist, Taylor Nights. Most recently in December of 2021, Wiz released his project, Wiz Got Wings. Wiz has also joined the Professional Fighters League World Class Ownership Group. In his advisory role, Khalifa will collaborate with the league on integrating various elements of pop culture – from music integration and content creation to MMA lifestyle apparel.

Links:

“Chill With Me” ft. Wiz Khalifa & Larry June: https://youtu.be/xuUwIDpM8Uk / https://music.empi.re/chillwithme

END

– Rolling Stone’s Best Latin Albums of 2019 (Gangalee)

“Whether or not you realize it, this Puerto Rican rapper is one of the most popular artists in America right now.” – Vice

“Luckily, a few artists have taken on the task of ensuring [reggaeton’s] origins aren’t suppressed or forgotten. Farruko is one of the few at the forefront, doing so in the most overt fashion…Farruko, who has over a decade of experience in the music industry, has been a part of that time of reinvention for reggaeton, trap en español, and now reggae…Taking on the advice of the wise, Farruko more often than not says the least but does the most, pouring out his thoughts, emotions and vision for the future of Latin music into extended albums and tracks.” – Remezcla

The Background:

About Farruko
Farruko is recognized as one of the most important musical phenomena in the Latin music industry. Thanks to his fantastic artistic versatility and his excellence on stage, the multi-platinum artist and two-time Latin GRAMMY winner has managed to conquer massive audiences around the world, becoming one of the most innovative exponents of the reggaeton genre. With eight successful studio albums and multiple collaborations with international artists of different genres, his success has impacted the Hispanic American community, in such a way that his career has been recognized by HBO with a documentary, “Farruko: En Letra de Otro.”

His latest album Gangalee debuted #2 on Billboard’s “Top Latin Songs” chart, entered the “Billboard 200” global chart, and was certified 7x multi-platinum. This album presents essential singles like “Nadie,” “Inolvidable,” “La Cartera” with Bad Bunny, and “Delincuente” with Anuel AA. Likewise, his single “Calma – Remix” with Pedro Capó became an iconic hit of popular reggaeton, which not only received a Latin GRAMMY award but has also been certified as platinum by the RIAA. Additionally, the song received an ASCAP 2020 award and has almost two billion views in its music video. Farruko is characterized by his highly-adaptable skills across musical genres, and his ability to break international barriers with his unique talent. Constantly demonstrating his musical evolution, Farruko reaffirms his position as an artistic powerhouse in the Latin music industry.

About Carbon Fiber Music
Carbon Fiber Music, Inc. (CFM) is a record label specializing in the international Latin market, established in 2014 and founded by international superstar, Farruko, and his manager/entrepreneur Franklin Martinez. Today, Carbon Fiber Music is one of the most respected independent record labels in the music industry and is responsible for the internationalization of multiple artists such as: Farruko, Ankhal, Lary Over, Milly, Akim, Lil Tati, Josephlee, and producers and songwriters: Sharo Towers, K4G K LO K, Ghetto, White Star.

The label is characterized by its mastery of a wide variety of musical styles, which reflect the constant evolution of the Hispanic American youth thanks to its wide and successful catalog that has taken it to win multiple Latin GRAMMYS and tour the world with its artist roster.

Carbon Fiber Music has always distinguished itself for its consistency and the quality of its releases, leading it today to become one of the most recognized and significant brands in Latin Urban music, with more than 3.97 million followers through its social networks and more than one billion views on its official YouTube channel.

Links:

“Embalao” ft. White Star & J. Cross: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MF1tl5O7sr0

“La Benedición” ft. Lenier: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BD9rJ5e5V9E

“Amigos Nuevos No” ft. Fresy Franklin: https://youtu.be/xZofUAyzwXQ

PEPAS EP: https://farruko.lnk.to/PepasFarrukoEP

“Baja Cali”: https://youtu.be/FR3o7LZAIKw

“PEPAS” (Remix) ft. Tiësto: https://farruko.lnk.to/PepasTiestoRemix

Watch Farruko perform on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon: https://youtu.be/7V2aGXbaiJo

LA 167: https://Farruko.lnk.to/La167

“El Incomprendido”: https://youtu.be/Zpi7CTDvi1A

“PEPAS” (Remix) ft. David Guetta: https://Farruko.lnk.to/PepasRemix

“PEPAS”: https://farruko.lnk.to/Pepas / https://youtu.be/y8trd3gjJt0

Buy tickets for “LA 167” Tour at www.farruko.com

“PREMIUM”: https://smarturl.it/FarrukoPREMIUM

“La Tóxica”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puugRJxgdt4

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01.14.2022

Farruko Raves in the Wilderness in “Embalao” Video

Press Release

Farruko Raves in the Wilderness in “Embalao” Video

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1.13.2022

Farruko Shares “Embalao,” His First New Video of 2022

Featuring White Star and Produced by J. Cross, “Embalao” is a Highlight from LA 167, Farruko’s Acclaimed 2021 Album

The Video:

Incorporating a vast tapestry of influences into his singular blend, Farruko is one of the most versatile and successful artists in Latin music today. Today, the global superstar shares a new video for “Embalao,” a club-ready house track from his LA 167 album. With a title that alludes to maintaining a perfect buzz, “Embalao” is an uptempo party anthem, following in the footsteps of his mega-hit “PEPAS,” aided by a guest verse from White Star and J. Cross’s trance-y production. Directed by FramexGod, the video deposits Farruko and White Star in the forested wilderness, the two artists rocking their finest winter attire as they rock out to the song and race ATVs. The video intercuts the two artists’ ATV adventure with clips of Farruko performing to enthusiastic sold out crowds.

“Embalao” is the latest in a long line of high quality visuals from LA 167, immediately following “La Benidicón,” an iconic and festive salsa. Few artists of any genre are able to show such range with two consecutive video releases, a testament to the confidence and versatility displayed throughout the album. The album was one of Farruko’s most successful albums to date, and one of the blockbuster Latin releases of 2021, boasting singles like “PEPAS” (#25 peak on the Billboard Hot 100), “La Tóxica” (#95 peak on the Hot 100), and “El Incomprendido.” Farruko’s LA 167 was included in The New York Times “Best Albums of 2021” list and “PEPAS” was named by Time Magazine as the number 1 song of 2021, hailed by NPR as one of the 100 Best Songs of 2021, and recognized by Billboard in the Top Ten Hot Latin Songs of 2021.

Recently, Farruko wrapped up the first leg of his first US Arena tour with 8 sold out shows which included stops in California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and Texas. Farruko delivered an electrifying show night after night, giving fans an unforgettable experience and demonstrating why he is one of the most celebrated artists of our time. In February 2022, Farruko will kick off the second leg of his tour starting at his nativo Puerto Rico. He hit a career milestone and made history by selling out Puerto Rico’s renowned Coliseo arena during a presale for 2 nights for his upcoming homecoming shows of “LA 167 Tour” on February 4 and 5th, 2022.

Watch “Embalao” ft.White Star & J. Cross HERE

Stream LA 167: https://farruko.lnk.to/La167

Download promotional images HERE

Please contact Michelle or Kerry for more info.

Farruko Stats & Accolades:

Social Media Following:
IG: 19.7 million followers
Twitter: 4.9 million followers
Facebook: 21 million followers
YouTube: 16.7 million subscribers

2x Nominee at the 2021 Latin American Music Awards (vote here until 3pm ET on March 23rd)

Winner – Premios Juventud 2021 (La Mezcla Perfecta)

2x Latin GRAMMY Award Winner (2016, 2019)

ASCAP Latin Songwriter of the Year (2018)

Latin Billboard Award Winner (2015)

Nine Latin Airplay #1 Hits (including 2020’s “La Toxica” and 2021’s “PEPAS”)

“After his 2017 single ‘Krippy Kush’ became the first Latin trap song to reach the Hot 100 singles chart, Farruko did the unexpected by shifting his next album away from the burgeoning format and returning to urbano’s reggae roots. Eschewing tough rap braggadocio in favor of tuff gong vibrations, Gangalee makes Carribbean connections via cuts like the breezy ‘Quédate’ and the throwback ‘Pórtate Mal.'” – Rolling Stone’s Best Latin Albums of 2019 (Gangalee)

“Whether or not you realize it, this Puerto Rican rapper is one of the most popular artists in America right now.” – Vice

The Background:

Links:

“Embalao” ft. White Star & J. Cross: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MF1tl5O7sr0

“La Benedición” ft. Lenier: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BD9rJ5e5V9E

“Amigos Nuevos No” ft. Fresy Franklin: https://youtu.be/xZofUAyzwXQ

PEPAS EP: https://farruko.lnk.to/PepasFarrukoEP

“Baja Cali”: https://youtu.be/FR3o7LZAIKw

“PEPAS” (Remix) ft. Tiësto: https://farruko.lnk.to/PepasTiestoRemix

Watch Farruko perform on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon: https://youtu.be/7V2aGXbaiJo

LA 167: https://Farruko.lnk.to/La167

“El Incomprendido”: https://youtu.be/Zpi7CTDvi1A

“PEPAS” (Remix) ft. David Guetta: https://Farruko.lnk.to/PepasRemix

“PEPAS”: https://farruko.lnk.to/Pepas / https://youtu.be/y8trd3gjJt0

Buy tickets for “LA 167” Tour at www.farruko.com

“PREMIUM”: https://smarturl.it/FarrukoPREMIUM

“La Tóxica”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puugRJxgdt4

END

01.14.2022

AFROPUNK Announces the Black Fashion Accelerator Program Class of 2022

Press Release

AFROPUNK Announces the Black Fashion Accelerator Program Class of 2022

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1.13.2022

AFROPUNK Announces Black Fashion Accelerator Program, Created in Partnership with Shopify

Meet the Nine Fashion Entrepreneurs That Comprise the Black Fashion Accelerator Class of 2022

With the Program Mentor Christopher Bevans, Creative Director of DYNE, the BFA Class of 2022 Will Complete a 6-Month Intensive Program En Route to a Fashion Show in June

The Announcement:

Since its inception over sixteen years ago, AFROPUNK has been dedicated to eliminating obstacles to entrepreneurialism and creative expression in marginalized communities. Channeling that spirit with the goal of elevating aspiring Black fashion designers and growing their businesses, AFROPUNK partners with Shopify to found the Black Fashion Accelerator, an intensive program that will help prepare nine promising talents for long careers in the industry.

The Black Fashion Accelerator spans six months, offering the inaugural BFA Class access to experts and resources–including Program Mentor Chris Bevans, creative director at DYNE, plus three guest mentors who will help guide the process–as they journey through a top tier curriculum that allows them the opportunity to bloom as artists and build successful, sustainable, and profitable businesses. The program culminates in a fashion show to be held in June. Check AFROPUNK.com and AFROPUNK and Shopify social channels to track the Founders on their journey from the classroom to the runway.

Stay tuned for more information and announcements and be sure to check AFROPUNK.com and AFROPUNK socials for the latest updates.

Read about the Black Fashion Accelerator: https://afropunk.com/shopify-black-fashion-accelerator/

Didn’t get a chance to be a part of the Black Fashion Accelerator? Shopify is now accepting registrations for their 1 Million Black Businesses program (1MBB). Through 1MBB Shopify is working to remove barriers and encourage more aspiring Black business owners to start and scale their businesses. Whether you’ve been thinking of launching that side hustle or need support getting your existing business off the ground, 1MBB is here to help your business flourish.

MEET THE CLASS OF 2022:

Last week, AFROPUNK announced the Black Fashion Accelerator Class of 2022, selecting nine exceptionally talented entrepreneurs who AFROPUNK knows will make a major impact on the future of the fashion industry. See below for details on the companies:

Bronté Laurent (Founder, Par Bronte Laurent): par Bronté Laurent is a luxury womenswear fashion brand that creates classic, chic, and minimal designs that offer comfortability and opulence in each piece. Constructed for women to live unapologetically lavish this label is 70% sustainable by using dead-stock materials being sourced and made in Ghana.
Archie Clay III & Tajh Crutch(Founders, WEAR BRIMS): Wear Brims is a luxury hat and accessory company that is founded on the principles of faith, family, confidence, which are at the core of every decision and every design we make. We understand the importance of being your best self internally, and how that translates into how you express yourself fashionably. Our goal is for everyone to present to the world their most confident self. Be the most confident in the room. “Wear Brims. Wear Confidence.”
Corin Lindsay (Founder, CORIN DEMARCO): Corin DeMarco is a lifestyle and apparel brand that provides premium- quality, culturally relevant apparel, and accessories for Historically Black College and Universities (HBCU). Addressing an issue that has long plagued the HBCU apparel space – the availability of premium-quality apparel that is also stylish and tailored to the preferences of the HBCU community of students, alumni, and fans, the Corin DeMarco brand’s super quality and fabrics reflect respect for both the institution and the wearer.
Sophia Danner-Okotie (Founder, BESIDA): Besida is a crafts women’s clothing brand made from bold African print textiles and motifs. It is inspired by its West African origins where all its garments are ethically crafted in Benin City, Nigeria. Besida builds passionate connections to the homeland for black and brown women in the West who seek garments that express their cultural background and native roots. The brand’s unique sustainability approach wins over its customers as a brand to look and feel good in. The brands’ multifunctional designs promote sustainability by increasing the possibility of clothing styles and extending the service cycle of its garments. With its “No Waste” initiative, Besida transforms leftover fabric pieces into stylish hair accessories.
Melissa A. Mitchell (Founder, ABEILLE CREATIONS): Abeille Creations (ABL) is a wearable art & custom design house that offers fashion apparel, athleisure gear, home décor, and fine art. ABL’s ideal audience are those who live life to the fullest and don’t mind standing out in the crowd. The core values are innovation, inclusion, individuality, and inspiration. Every piece that comes from ABL radiates an undeniable light that shifts the brand from just art and apparel to empowerment and (positive) energy transfer.
Paakow Essandoh (Founder, MIZIZI): MIZIZI, meaning “roots” in Swahili, is the official athleisure brand for the African Diaspora. Founded in 2015, it began as a reminder that taking pride in one’s roots is an integral part of self-actualization and has since transformed into a global movement inspired by various cultures revolving around black heritage. MIZIZI’s sport jersey collections have always been designed with the values: connection, celebration, and representation, in mind. Forever and always, the goal is to #StayRooted.
Sylvester Ndhlovu (Founder, RUVAAFRICWEAR): RuvaAfricWear is a lifestyle brand that celebrates The Culture through everyday functional clothing. RuvaAfricWear is changing the narrative by rejecting Eurocentric fashion standards and empowering people to wear a brand that celebrates them, and clothes that have an intrinsic value.
Valerie Blaise (Founder, VAVVOUNE): Vavvoune is a fashion brand focused on bags and leather goods. Inspired by moods, culture, and moments of nostalgia, all our products are designed and produced in New York City. We create passionately made leather accessories while hinting spunk and individuality. We aim to introduce a new tier of luxury, not defined by price points but by experience and intentionality. Our vision is to diversify the market and evolve every season.
Jelisa Smith (Founder, House Of Fleek): House of Fleek offers ready-to-wear and made-to-order high fashion women’s apparel. that offers bold and trendy one-of-a-kind fashions. One of our proudest accomplishments is our commitment to size inclusivity, offering up to size 3X.

These talented creators and entrepreneurs combine innovative ideas with fresh eyes for design, serving underserved markets and inspiring their fellow creators with their ingenuity. AFROPUNK and Shopify hope that these creators will help demonstrate that business and commerce exist to benefit all people, not just a privileged few.

Please contact Michelle. Kerry, or Destiny if interested in talking with AFROPUNK.

The Background:

About AFROPUNK

AFROPUNK IS THE MICROPHONE OF THOUGHT AND A LENS OF PERSPECTIVE

AFROPUNK is an integrated media platform and global music festival platform giving voice to the unwritten, unwelcome and unseen. AFROPUNK is redefining the modern multicultural experience through its mission to unleash freedom of expression and to honor the power of individuality while strengthening our community. AFROPUNK creates an anchor for its growing audience of multicultural youth through its annual music festivals, which span three continents and five cities around the globe (Brooklyn, Paris, London, Atlanta, and Johannesburg), while continually enhancing engagement and promoting conversation through content, commerce, and community.

About Shopify:

Shopify is a leading provider of essential internet infrastructure for commerce, offering trusted tools to start, grow, market, and manage a retail business of any size. Shopify makes commerce better for everyone with a platform and services that are engineered for reliability while delivering a better shopping experience for consumers everywhere. Proudly founded in Ottawa, Shopify powers over 1.7 million businesses in more than 175 countries and is trusted by brands such as Allbirds, Gymshark, Heinz, Staples Canada, and many more. For more information, visit www.shopify.com.

About Black Fashion Accelerator Program Mentor Christopher Bevans

Christopher Bevans is the Creative Director of DYNE, a liminal menswear brand that he launched in 2015. A native of New York, Bevans began his career apprenticing at a local tailoring house, of which he became the owner at the age of 19. His roots as an expert tailor developed into a passion that carried him to the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). From 2003 to 2007, he was the Design Director of Nike’s Blue Ribbon Sports Division and was instrumental in initiating Roger Federer’s now-famous “RF” logo. In 2013, he was named a Massachusetts Institute of Technology Media Lab Director’s Fellow.

Bevans then proceed to work with top brands such as Billionaire Boys Club, Head (Tennis), Sean John, Yeezy, Smithsonian, New York Cosmos, and the MacArthur Foundation. Bevans also created bespoke designs for clients such as Jay-Z, Pharrell Williams, LeBron James, and John Legend. He also consults for companies such as Save The Duck, SPYDER, and BeastMode.

In the past few years, DYNE has been recognized globally as a leading menswear label, honored with multiple awards, including the 2017 Woolmark Innovation Prize. He was also a finalist for the 2017 CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund.

Links:

official site | instagram | twitter | facebook | youtube

Black Fashion Accelerator: https://afropunk.com/shopify-black-fashion-accelerator/

END

We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” a soft-spoken tango that has become one of the most successful Soundtrack songs in TIkTok history. With over 145k video creations and over 470 million video views, “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” inspired fans to praise the representation in the film, search for hidden easter eggs, and even add their own vocals to the animated sequence (they get points for trying). Encanto’s creative team is emerging from behind the scenes, including actress Stephanie Beatriz and, @Kai_Martinez__, one of the film’s choreographers, gave fans a peek behind the scenes at the choreography for “Bruno” and some of the film’s other musical numbers. Propelled by the TikTok community, “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” jumped 45 spots on the Billboard Hot 100 this week, clocking in at #5, marking the highest placement for a Disney song since “Let It Go” from Frozen in 2014. Currently sitting at #1 on the Billboard 200, four other songs from the Encanto soundtrack are also charting on the Hot 100: “Surface Pressure” (#14, 49k video creations), “The Family Madrigal” (#62, 46k creations), “What Else Can I Do?” (#67, 19k creations), “Waiting On A Miracle” (#82, 7.3k creations), and “Dos Oruguitas” (#83, 9.3k creations).

Another week, another star joins TikTok and makes his presence felt. Late last night, the platform marked the arrival of Mr. Solo Dolo himself, Kid Cudi. In his first video, which already has over 1.7 million video views, Cudi profanely greeted his fans on the app, goofed around with silly voices, and sang along to Haddaway’s classic “What Is Love.” Given time, there’s no doubt that Cudder will become a formidable force on the platform.

Australian rock band Men at Work’s 80s hit, “Down Under” recently received a remix makeover by Aussie producer Luude, and creators can’t seem to get enough of it. Boasting over 81.3K platform and user-generated creations, the song connects creators across the globe as they do the Philly-originated #ShakeDat dance to singer Colin Hay’s emphatic line, “He just smiled and gave me a Vegemite sandwich/And he said, I come from a land down under.” In other recent creations, creators use the melodious flute-heavy track as background music for their painting videos, innovative exercise ideas, and documenting their days in COVID-19 isolation. Luude’s “Down Under” remix is currently charting on Australia’s ARIA pop charts and in the Top 40 of the UK’s Official Charts.

TikTok provides a space for creators to showcase their artistic sides and clever senses of humor in equal measure. In recent weeks, a new “draw yourself” trend, soundtracked by German chanteuse Nico’s 1967 folk-pop classic “These Days,” (615.6K+ creations) has taken off on the platform. In most creations, such as in Billie Eilish’s (110 million views), as well as Rico Nasty and her adorable son’s, creators look into the camera and trace a sketch of their face on the screen as the tune’s somber string arrangement plays. In other creations, TikTok users add a touch of humor to the trend as they sketch away their third wheel blues and admit they didn’t know they were supposed to draw themselves for the trend.

The TikTok community is, quite literally, making strides this week, as they strut their stuff to the tune of psychedelic funk musician Thundercat’s Isley Brothers-sampling “Them Changes.” After initially trending in 2020, the sound is regaining steam as creators are using a distorted video filter that makes their stride appear extra wide while they walk in different locations to the groovy track. With over 210.7K total creations, including more than 23K creations in the past week alone, the song is inspiring creations from those who enjoy taking strolls around the city, excitedly walk through the house as their dad films, and hilariously attempt to walk to the bathroom while they’re intoxicated.

This week, Caroline Polacheck of former indie pop band Chairlift is the source of a bubbling dance trend on TikTok. Inspired by a video of her dancing to her 2019 pop song, “So Hot You’re Hurting My Feelings” (29.7K+ creations), the TikTok community share their own renditions of the lively dance. While many rise to the occasion by showing off their best moves and ability to balance, others share their hilarious mishaps as they try to attempt the routine. Additionally, the upbeat song soundtracks creators’ home improvement projects, book recommendations, and baking videos.

Canadian singer-songwriter Elijah Woods built a large audience on TIkTok with his songwriting skills and cheeky sense of humor. He made the jump from bedroom TikToks to late night TV with his latest song, which takes James Corden’s romantic story about meeting his wife and turns it into a punchy banger. “Nothing Into Something” became an instant hit, racking up over 400k views and earning the attention of Corden, who demanded a full version, supported the song on Twitter, and blessed Elijah with a follow, putting him in elite company. Elijah is currently preparing to release the full song onto DSPs, but in the meantime, he’s creating songs based on romantic stories by other celebrities, and gently suggesting to his new follower James Corden that he should be the next guest on Carpool Karaoke.

Check TikTok’s newsroom for more noteworthy stories: newsroom.tiktok.com

For more info, please contact:
Michelle McDevitt, Kerry Harrison, Destiny Riley, T’Keyah Hayes, Audible Treats
Leah Linder, TikTok

The Background:

TikTok is the leading destination for short-form mobile video. Their mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy.

TikTok has global offices including Los Angeles, New York, London, Paris, Berlin, Dubai, Mumbai, Singapore, Jakarta, Seoul, and Tokyo.

Links:

TikTok’s Newsroom: https://newsroom.tiktok.com/en-us

Check out previous editions of TikTok Treats, a weekly newsletter about the most interesting music happenings on TikTok:

For Your TikTok Turkey Day Soundtrack: Taylor Swift, Regina Spektor, and More
Taylor Swift Turns TikTok ‘Red,’ ‘Tis Mariah Carey’s Season, Lady Gaga Makes A Grand Arrival & More
O n TikTok: U2 Closes Out #Rocktober as Kanye West and Afropop Lead New Trends
Led Zeppelin Joins TikTok, While Adele and Luke Combs Spark New Trends
D wayne Johnson, George Michael, and Jack Stauber Inspire New TikTok Trends
On TikTok: A Bee Gees Remix, A Very Juggalo Halloween, and Some Rising Hitmakers
Rosalía, Coi Leray, and MCR Highlight the Week in TikTok Music
Balvin, Doja, and Mariah Lead a Star-Studded Week on TikTok
Sam Smith, Ciara and Breakout PinkPantheress Highlight the Week on TikTok
Lizzo Starts “Rumors,” bbno$ Eats “edamame,” and More Hip-Hop TikTok Stories
#AltTikTok, Alt-J, and All-Time Rap Classics Define Music on TikTok This Week
Cats, Babies, & Vietnamese Techno Highlight the Week in TikTok Music
On TikTok: Normani, Reba, and a Gas Station Star
The Kid Laroi Meets Bieber, Drake Runs Thru The 6, and More From TikTok
BIA Meets Nicki, Stromae Slows Down, and More TikTok Trends
On TikTok: Music Trends Inspired by Kanye, Young Nudy, and…Meryl Streep?
Avril Lavigne, Bo Burnham, and Gucci Mane Lead The Week in TikTok Trends
TikTok Summer Madness: Lorde Leads a Pack of New Trending Songs
Swae Lee, WILLOW, Mitski & More Inspire Trends on TikTok
Only On TikTok: Lil Durk & City Girls Trend Alongside…The Backyardigans?
On TikTok: BTS Army Takes Over, Carti Demands Silence, and Fans Anticipate F9
Olivia Rodrigo Catches Fire, Miguel Helps Users Catch Feelings, and More TikTok Stories
Saweetie, Calvin Harris, and Bella Poarch Highlight The Week in TikTok
Another One? DJ Khaled, Lizzo, and More Make the Week in TikTok
Doja Cat, Little Simz, and El Alfa Inspire TikTok Trends
Britney Spears, Chloe Bailey, and Diplo Make Waves on TikTok
Dua Lipa, Drake, and Bell Biv DeVoe Make Waves on TikTok
DMX Gets His Flowers, Silk Sonic Reaches #1, and More TikTok Stories
TikTok Unveils Music-Powered Filters, Lil Nas X Debuts At #1, and More TikTok Stories
Bieber Tops The Charts, Young Thug Premieres New Music, and More TikTok Stories
Demi Lovato Kicks Off TikTok’s New Livestream Series Headstream
Rock Music Thrives on TikTok, Just Ask Yungblud, Beach Bunny, and More
Shania Hops On Board, Kid Cudi Tosses and Turns, and More TikTok Stories
On TikTok: Kali Uchis and Coi Leray Hit the Charts as Bobby Shmurda Comes Home
Rihanna, Brent Faiyaz, and Giveon Lead TikTok’s R&B Moment
T-Pain, Hyperpop, and Anti-Valentine’s Anthems Take TikTok By Storm
Cardi Goes Up, Uzi Goes Down (to Sleep), and More TikTok Stories
Black History Month Kicks Off, Mark Ronson Duets, and More Music Stories From TikTok
Cardi Goes Up, Uzi Goes Down (to Sleep), and More TikTok Stories
Dave Grohl, Migos, Miley, and More Happenings on TikTok
This Week on TikTok: Olivia Rodrigo Hits #1 as Memes & Mashups Flourish
New Year, New TikTok Trends: Alicia Keys, Remembering MF DOOM & More
Paul McCartney, Holiday Celebrations, and New Year’s Eve Live on TikTok
TikTok Releases First U.S. Music Report: Here Are Some Key Insights
How TikTok’s Top 10 Songs of 2020 Impacted the Industry

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01.12.2022

We Need to Talk About “Bruno,” And Other TikTok Music Trends

01.10.2022

Paper Route Empire Honors Young Dolph with ‘Long Live Dolph’ Mixtape, Coming 1/21

Press Release

Paper Route Empire Honors Young Dolph with ‘Long Live Dolph’ Mixtape, Coming 1/21

Go to Post

1.10.2022

PRE to Release Compilation Mixtape Honoring Memory of Founder/CEO Young Dolph on 1/21 Entitled Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph

Jay Fizzle, PRE’s Longest-Tenured Artist, Shares Title Track “Long Live Dolph,” a Heartfelt Tribute to His Mentor

Long Live Dolph Features New Music from Key Glock, an Unheard Verse from Dolph and Songs by Big Moochie Grape, Snupe Bandz, and the Rest of the PRE Roster

#DoItForFlippa

Critical Praise:

“If a community has to share its pain, then its success must be shared as well.” – Pitchfork

“Eleven years after it was founded, Young Dolph’s Paper Route Empire record label is in the process of living up to its name like never before.” – XXL

“Key Glock, Snupe Bandz, Big Moochie Grape, and others take a prominent role in making PAPER ROUTE iLLUMINATi sound dope” – HotNewHipHop

The Announcement:

The world lost a legend when Young Dolph passed away in November. Similarly to other leaders of his magnitude, Dolph left behind lasting legacy. That legacy includes Paper Route Empire, a thriving independent record label and video production company with a talented and hungry group of artists eager and equipped to fulfill their mentor’s vast vision. Today, Paper Route Empire announces Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph, a compilation mixtape dedicated to the memory of the label’s co-founder and CEO.

The upcoming mixtape features contributions from the full PRE roster, including Key Glock, Big Moochie Grape, Kenny Muney, Jay Fizzle, Joddy Badass, Snupe Bandz, Paper Route Woo, and Chitana. Though he’s no longer with us, the Dolph’s presence blesses the entire album, whether in snippets of old interviews or on tribute tracks like “Long Live Dolph” by Jay Fizzle. Long Live Dolph also features an unheard verse from Dolph himself, on a collaboration with one of his PRE artists. Following up last summer’s PAPER ROUTE iLLUMINATi, a project that affirmed Dolph’s imperial ambitions and showcased the wide-ranging talents of his disciples, Long Live Dolph releases on January 21st via Paper Route Empire.

“My best friend, brother, and loyal business partner, Dolph was loved and admired by people all over the world,” says Daddyo, Paper Route Empire’s CEO. “He led by example and influenced so many people both near and far. The world will never be the same without Dolph but I know he’d want me to continue his legacy by working hard to push all our artists to the next level and make PRE an international brand. I hope his fans love it as much as I do.”

Along with the announcement of the tape, PRE shares “Long Live Dolph,” a moving single by Paper Route Empire’s longest-tenured artist Jay Fizzle. Adorned with lush harmonies from a gospel choir, “Long Live Dolph” finds Jay Fizzle baring his soul, the South Memphis native audibly emotional when he relays his remembrances. Fizzle raps over dramatic piano chords and faint percussion, speaking on the lessons he learned from his mentor about beats, rhymes, and life, recalling how Dolph noticed his talent and rescued him from the block, expressing gratitude for Dolph’s generosity and giving spirit, and resolving to carry on in Dolph’s name: “Got your face tatted on my back cause you always had me regardless/You took me out the ‘partments and since then I ain’t been starving.” When the emotion becomes too much to bear, singer Ricco Barrino belts out a gospel-inflected verse that pays proper respects to the King of Memphis.

Long Live Dolph is reflective, but it is also triumphant–a statement of resolve from Paper Route Empire and its artists that they will continue building on the foundation that Dolph laid for them. Stay tuned for much more music and announcements in the coming weeks and months.

Pre-save Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph: https://music.empi.re/longliveyoungdolph

Buy/Stream Jay Fizzle – “Long Live Dolph”: https://music.empi.re/longliveyoungdolph

Photo credit: @IThinkEthan

Please contact Michelle or Kerry for more info.

Links:

Jay Fizzle: instagram | twitter | youtube | spotify

“Long Live Dolph”: https://music.empi.re/longliveyoungdolph

Pre-save Paper Route Empire Presents: Long Live Dolph: https://music.empi.re/longliveyoungdolph

PAPER ROUTE iLLUMINATi: https://music.empi.re/preilluminati

END

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