The Highbridge The Label Rapper Only Has Time for the Real Ones in Latest Video
Critical Praise:
“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:
With over 5 million streams in the bank, 22 year old LilRekk (pronounced “Lil Reek”) captivates his listeners with his soul-baring anthems. Doing double duty by addressing the haters and the fakes, Rekk shares “Time,” his new video single. Rekk makes sure to call out the people who are only in his life when it’s convenient for them, saying: “I be tired of making time for em / They weren’t around when I was down / Don’t got no dime for em.”
In the JMO directed-video, Rekk keeps it lowkey in the backseat of his Cadillac before joining his crew on stage to perform for a fired-up crowd. Donned in a full Chrome Hearts outfit and rocking a chain with his name on it, Rekk emits confidence as he retreats to the venue’s dressing rooms to embrace his inner lone wolf. “Time” is the latest video single to come from Rekk, following his recent vulnerable banger, “Ooters,” which racked up over 1.2 million views on YouTube since its mid-November release.
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 StunnaGambino & YXNGK.A receiving over 2.3 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. Keep your ear to the ground for more major moves in 2022.
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.
Young Dolph Honored With Officially-Designated Street Name in Memphis
Located in Dolph’s Home Neighborhood of Castalia Heights, the Street Commemorates the Life and Legacy of the Iconic Artist
See Photos From The Ceremony Below
Young Dolph’s Loved Ones to Host “Celebration of Life” at FedEx Forum in Memphis on 12/16
With Words from Those Who Loved Him Best and Performances in His Honor from Paper Route Empire Artists, the “Celebration of Life” Pays Tribute to the Man and His Music
The Announcement:
Beloved in Memphis and beyond for his invigorating rap music and dedication to charitable efforts, Young Dolph made a major impact in his industry and his community during his too-short life. In an unanimous voice vote earlier this week, the Memphis City Council resolved to name a street in Memphis in Dolph’s honor. Revealed during a street naming ceremony earlier today, a section of street in Dolph’s home neighborhood of Castalia Heights will forever be known as “Adolph Robert ‘Young Dolph’ Thornton, Jr. Avenue.”
The new street, span of Dunn Avenue between Airways Blvd and Hays Road, will live on as a permanent reminder of Dolph’s lasting legacy as an artist and citizen. The City of Memphis also decreed that November 17th, the date of Dolph’s passing, will be a recognized Day Of Service in the city, honoring his lifetime of dedication to his community.
Councilman JB Smiley, Jr., who sponsored the honorary street name resolution, said, “It’s about celebrating our own. Young Dolph was truly one of us.”
Tomorrow, Dolph’s loved ones will host a “Celebration of Life” honoring the man’s life as a rapper, businessman, philanthropist, and family man. The service will include performances, words from his family, his Paper Route Empire team, and reminisces from philanthropy recipients Dolph gave to throughout the years. The event occurs Thursday, 12/16, from 11am-2pm at the FedEx Forum in Memphis, Tennessee.
Open to the public, free tickets for the event sold out in a matter of minutes. The event will stream live on REVOLT’s YouTube channel.
“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
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.
GLOBAL SUPERSTAR FARRUKO DROPS MUSIC VIDEO FOR “LA BENDICIÓN” FEATURING LENIER
The Announcement:
December 15, 2021 (Miami, FL) – Puerto Rico-born superstar Farruko is one of the most versatile artists in Latin music, incorporating the sounds of the music that he loves into his vast sonic tapestry. Today, he releases the latest video off of his critically acclaimed album LA 167, “La Bendición” featuring cuban artist, Lenier, highlighting their Caribbean roots with an iconic and festive salsa, produced by IAmChino and Mauro Silvino Betran.
Directed by Cristian J Aguilar and produced by HERO KIDS, the video for “La Bendición” is the ultimate kick-off to the holiday season. With scenes that capture the true essence of the song’s lyrics among dancers and a full blown party, both artists sing its chorus “Yo, no pararé, voy a seguir gozando, que aquí se vive una sola vez” (I won’t stop, I’m going to keep enjoying life, because you only live once), inviting their audience to enjoy life to the fullest.
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.
Social Media Following: Instagram (18.5 million), Twitter (4.7 million), Facebook (15 million likes), YouTube (13.7 million)
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”)
“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
“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
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.
The Brooklyn Native Sets a Vibe with Yung Bleu in Latest Video from Debut Album, UNTAMED
Critical Praise:
“A rumbling voice that could be picked up on a seismograph” – Pitchfork
“He’s going to be a force to be reckoned with, and he knows it.” – Lyrical Lemonade
“…hard-hitting rhymes that will surely be heard blaring over car stereos in Brooklyn.” – HotNewHipHop
The Video:
As 2021 comes to a close, DUSTY LOCANE has left no doubt that he’s the face of the future of Brooklyn drill. With the crown firmly secured on the Canarsie native’s head, DUSTY returns to remind us that every king needs his queen with steamy new visuals for the seductive street ballad, “WHAT YOU NEED.” Featuring an appearance from Mobile, AL artist, Yung Bleu, the track is a standout from DUSTY’s debut album, UNTAMED, released earlier this month.
The No More Heroes-directed visuals show DUSTY and Bleu maneuver through a strip club, serenading dancers as they ponder consummation and create precipitation. Though the video shows a new side of DUSTY, his distinct Brooklyn swagger is on full display in the video. It’s clear that he’s no less at home in the club with beautiful women huddled around him than he is in the streets surrounded by his suvies.
The last two weeks have put an exclamation point on what’s been a stellar year in the rise of DUSTY LOCANE. After releasing his debut album, UNTAMED, on December 3rd, DUSTY joined the exclusive ranks of artists like Olivia Rodrigo, Coi Leray, Pooh Shiesty, and many more, by being welcomed into the #RIAAClassOf2021 for receiving his first GOLD certification this year with his debut single, “ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN FREESTYLE” which racked up over 200 million combined streams. Meanwhile, his buzzing single, “ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN PT. 2 (PICTURE ME),” has been taking TikTok by storm, with over 130k video creations using the sound.
Beyond the hits, UNTAMED introduces new bangers like the apocalyptic, guitar-flecked “ICEDOUT,” and the Canarsie neighborhood theme song “FLOSSSTATEOFMIND.” Featuring appearances from Yung Bleu, OBNJay, RahSwish, and more, UNTAMED is available everywhere via EMPIRE.
UNTAMED Tracklist:
1. CHANGE YOU
2. ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN FREESTYLE
3. RUMBLE
4. MISFIT ft. OBN Jay
5. ICED OUT
6. DEADLY
7. FLOSS STATE OF MIND
8. CHEAT CODE
9. 5TH CLOCC FINEST ft. 3Kizzy
10. WHAT YOU NEED ft. Yung Bleu
11. ROLANDO (Caught In The Rain)
12. ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN PT. 2 (PICTURE ME)
13. BEST FRIEND ft. 8ANDITT
14. EDEN ROCC
15. A DAY ON THE FIFTH
16. REWIND
17. GET MONEY
18. BIG WOOS ft. Rah Swish
19. CLICC CLACC ft. KG MORE BREESH
20. CANES WORLD
“It was all in front of me; I just had to go get it,” DUSTY LOCANE says at the beginning of his viral drill heater, “Rolando (Caught In The Rain).” That’s an understatement: less than a year after he started rapping, the gruff-voiced, baby-faced Brooklyn spitter has experienced one of the most meteoric rises in recent rap history. He’s only released three songs, and he’s already a star: his breakout song “R60LLXN N CONTROLLIN” went viral instantly, and its follow-up “Rolando” garnered 1 million video plays and 1 million streams in its first week. The world is closely watching Dusty, and he’s ready to deliver.
TikTok Shares “Year On TikTok: Music Report” for 2021
The Report Reveals Key Stats, Emerging Artists, and Fascinating Stories From the Year in Music on TikTok
Packed With Data and In-Depth Analysis, TikTok’s Music Report Examines the Stars, Songs, and Stats That Defined a Another Massive Year as the App Grows Into a Dominant Force in Culture and the Music Industry
The News:
TikTok was the talk of the music industry in 2020, for its unprecedented ability to send previously unknown artists and songs to the top of the charts and the highest echelons of music stardom. In 2021, as artists and the industry, TikTok’s role expanded–it remained a supercharged engine for music discovery, but also became a kind of town square for music, where artists would share their new music and let the community do its thing.
To take stock of a massive 2021, TikTok shared its second-ever “Year On TikTok Music Report,” offering in-depth analysis, lists of top songs, genres, and artists, and other fascinating data and stories that defined music on TikTok this year. Below are some key takeaways from the report:
TikTok’s video views and creation numbers remain staggering! – Last year, over 175 songs reached 1 billion video views on TikToks that used their sound. In 2021, the number ballooned up to more than 430 songs that surpassed 1 billion views, with the most viewed among them approaching 20 billion video views.
Success on TikTok directly impacts chart, sales, and streaming success: As music lovers flock to TikTok as their platform of choice, a song’s success on TikTok increasingly correlates with improved streaming numbers and chart positions. Over 175 songs that trended on TikTok reached the Billboard Hot 100, many of which topped Billboard charts. That’s a twofold increase from last year, when nearly 90 songs reached the Hot 100.
Trending songs came from all over the globe: Trending songs from TikTok emerged from six continents and dozens of countries, crossing borders on the backs of worldwide trends. Some of the more notable international tracks to make an impact were CKay’s “Love Nwantiti” (Nigeria), Hoàng Read’s “The Magic Bomb” (Vietnam), and Mc Don Juan’s “Bipolar” (Brazil).
TikTok is the most vital tool for emerging artists of all genres to further their careers: TikTok is the ideal platform for exciting new artists to find and build an audience, without sacrificing creative autonomy or compromising their authenticity. The TikTok list of 20 emerging artists includes artists from ten different countries and multiple genres, but they were all able to find and expand their audiences by capitalizing on trending songs.
“Comeback” Songs–released between 5-25 years ago–play a growing role on TikTok – Oldies bring nostalgia and new music brings thrills, but what role do songs that don’t quite fit either category play? This year, TikTok gave those wayward songs a home, as a host of non-current, not-yet-classic songs reached trending status and gained second life as a result. Hits like Kid Cudi’s “Day N Nite” and Justin Timberlake’s “SexyBack” gained renewed attention, but less-famous singles by The Noisettes, Dr. Dog, and Lukas Graham inspired trends that brought their music to a new audience.
Latin music lives on TikTok.– Latin music was the fastest-growing genre on TikTok in the U.S., rising from 10th in 2020 to 6th this year. The TikTok Music Report spotlighted Latin music, revealing the top Latin artists on the platform, as well as the top Latin songs from 2021. The report reveals that TikTok creators enjoy Latin music of all genres and eras–they vibed with hits by reggaetoneros like Bad Bunny, regional Mexican music from Ivan Cornejo, Latin pop from Camilo, and EDM-flavored bangers from Farruko.
TikTok plays favorites: Megan Thee Stallion and Doja Cat repeated their reign as the #1 and #2 artists by catalog, solidifying their spots as defining artists of TikTok. Lil Nas X, who had one of the first and biggest TikTok hits with “Old Town Road,” was the most viewed artist (by video views on his page). Relative newcomer Olivia Rodrigo ascended into the ranks of TikTok royalty, as nearly every song from her debut album SOUR garnered over 100k video creations.
Women Dominated the U.S. Top Artist and Songs Lists: Four out of the top five artists of 2021 by catalogue creations were by female artists–Megan Thee Stallion, Doja Cat, Olivia Rodrigo, and Cardi B. TikTok has evolved into the most important platform for female hip-hop artists: 5 of the top 10 hip-hop songs in the U.S. came from women, including superstar entries like Megan’s “Cognac Queen” and Cardi B’s “Up,” but fiery cuts from emerging artists like Erica Banks (“Buss It”) and Kayla Nicole (“Bundles”).
Things Got Weird – memes, soundtracks, and more trended alongside pop hits: While you’d expect to hear songs by Doja Cat and Olivia Rodrigo when scrolling through the For You page, but many unexpected sounds captured the hearts of TikTok creators. For a couple months in 2021, it was impossible to spend 2 minutes on TikTok without hearing the sound of The Backyardigans, a 2000s-era Nick Jr. cartoon whose soundtrack snuck into the Top 20 artists by catalogue behind infectious bangers like “Castaways” and “Into The Thick Of It.” At the top of the year, #ShantyTok took over the globe, inspiring creative multi-layered interpretations of hundreds-year-old songs with the duet function. An ideal person to capitalize on TikTok’s convergence of music, comedy, and internet cultures, Bo Burnham scored several trending songs from his Netflix special Inside, a statement about life on the internet that may have resonated a bit too well with TikTok creators wading through the second year of a pandemic.
Day 2 in San Bernardino Brought J. Cole, A Rae Sremmurd Reunion, and a Moving Tribute to the Late Young Dolph
THE RECAP:
Bringing a constellation of rap stars to the Inland Empire, Rolling Loud California’s second day boasted a spectacular lineup packed with some of the genre’s hottest names. The festival’s second day brought slightly warmer weather and a busier slate of artists, all hungry to make their mark on the sold out festival crowd.
The night featured a headlining performance from J. Cole, who played songs from The Off-Season and performed with his Dreamville signee Bas, and an unexpected Rae Sremmurd reunion between Swae Lee and Slim Jxmmi, who connected on stage to perform their #1 hit “Black Beatles.” Rolling Loud hosted a tribute set for the late Young Dolph, featuring performances from his Paper Route Empire signees Snupe Bandz and Paper Route Woo, and a cameo from Curren$y to play his Dolph collab “All Work.”
Rolling Loud wouldn’t be Rolling Loud without a thrilling undercard, featuring red hot names like Jack Harlow and Aminé. Saturday brought performances from some of the most exciting women in rap, including Rico Nasty, who brought fierce energy, Kali, who performed at her first-ever Rolling Loud, and Kaash Paige’s cloudy euphoria, along with XXL freshman Lakeyah, TikTok sensation ppcocaine, and more. Scintillating sets from California local heroes like Bino Rideaux, AzChike, Rucci, and more.
Check below for photos from the action-packed day in the ‘Dino, and stay tuned for tomorrow’s finale, featuring a performance from Future and even more of the biggest names in the world’s biggest genre.
J. Cole caps off the fest’s second night, performing what he said would be his last show “in a while” (Photo credit: Rolling Loud / @sokrispy)
JACK HARLOW:
What was poppin on Saturday? Jack Harlow’s CIROC Stage set (Credit: Rolling Loud / @jessicapadover)
SWAE LEE:
Swae Lee brought up his brother Slim Jxmmi for “Black Beatles” and announces the upcoming SremmLife 4 Album (Photo credit: Rolling Loud / @frankievergara)
YOUNG DOLPH TRIBUTE:
The Rolling Loud crowd came out to pay tribute to Young Dolph in a set that featured appearances from Curren$y and Paper Route Empire rappers Snupe Bandz (right) and Paper Route Woo (Photo credit: Rolling Loud / @srodriguez92)
RICO NASTY:
Rico Nasty performs with passion (Credit: Rolling Loud / @jordankelseyknight)
AMINÉ:
The Portland rapper sparkles during his Punx Stage set (Rolling Loud/@alexxfigs)
$NOT:
The mysterious $NOT delivers one of the highest-energy sets of the festival at the Power 106 Stage (Credit: Rolling Loud / @themcdub)
SOFAYGO:
Michigan riser SoFaygo ascends to a higher plane of existence (Rolling Loud/@themcdub)
DUKE DEUCE:
Memphis’s most energetic rapper fires up the crowd with bouncy bass and profane ad-libs (Rolling Loud/@sokrispy)
TEEZO TOUCHDOWN:
Teezo Touchdown cuts a unique figure at Rolling Loud (Rolling Loud/@kadeeeem)
LEADING LADIES:
KAASH PAIGE (Credit: Rolling Loud / @jordankelseyknight)
LAKEYAH (Credit: Rolling Loud / @justnjames_)
ppcocaine (Credit: Rolling Loud / @frankievergara)
KALI (Credit: Rolling Loud / @kadeeeem)
CALI NATIVES:
BINO RIDEAUX (Credit: Rolling Loud / @justnjames_)
RUCCI (Credit: Rolling Loud / @JORDANKELSEYKNIGHT)
AZCHIKE (Credit: Rolling Loud / @shaunllewellyn)
SCENES FROM THE FESTIVAL:
(Credit: Rolling Loud / @edgar.xl)
(Credit: Rolling Loud / @edgar.xl)
(Credit: Rolling Loud / @srodriguez92)
Each performer received a custom Rolling Loud chain to commemorate California 2021. Here’s Wiz Khalifa showing his chain off after performing last night (Credit: Rolling Loud / @katialuu)
Critical Praise:
#4 on Pollstar’s List of 2020’s Top Livestreamers
“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
“Rolling Loud continues to prove its hip-hop tastemaking status is no fluke” – Pollstar
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 returns from a 18-month hiatus on July 23rd-25th, with the sold out Rolling Loud Miami 2021, its biggest event yet, bringing in over 75,000 fans per day to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL. With headliners Travis Scott, Post Malone and A$AP Rocky, Rolling Loud Miami 2021 is 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 kicks off a massive year for the festival brand, arriving ahead of Rolling Loud New York, headlined by Travis Scott, J. Cole, and 50 Cent, in October and Rolling Loud California, headlined by J. Cole, Kid Cudi, and Future, in December.
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.
Kid Cudi Headlines a Successful First Day of the Fest, Which Brought Highlight Performances From Cali Natives and Blog-Era Titans
THE RECAP:
Nestled in a picturesque mountain range approximately 60 miles East of Los Angeles, San Bernardino’s blend of rustic Americana and natural beauty provide the ideal setting for a West Coast hip-hop festival. Rolling Loud California 2021 rose to the occasion, with art installations that evoke SoCal skate culture and the region’s spectacular golden hour sunshine.
The first day of Rolling Loud California was highlighted by standout performances from blog era heroes. Kid Cudi closed out the night with his melancholy bangers, while Wiz Khalifa brought out special guests like Ty Dolla $ign and Problem that prove how well the Pittsburgh native has adapted to the women-weed-and-weather West Coast lifestyle. The day was heavy on local heroes, with Los Angeles melodists Ty Dolla $ign and Blxst turning in standout sets, and Sacramento hard-head Mozzy performing for a rapturous crowd. Check below for photos from these performances and many more, and stay tuned throughout the weekend for performances from J. Cole, Future, and more, plus special guests and more surprises.
Mr. Solo Dolo plays tracks from Man On The Moon 3 live for the first time, and announces a new album from the Rolling Loud stage (Photo credit: Rolling Loud / @itchyeyephotos)
WIZ KHALIFA:
Wiz and his band played classic hits and welcomed a host of special guests: Juicy J, Ty Dolla $ign, Problem, Rubi Rose, and Chevy Woods (Credit: Rolling Loud / @josh.sobel)
LIL DURK:
Durkio closes out a massively successful 2021 with a hit-filled set (Photo credit: Rolling Loud / @sokrispy)
TY DOLLA $IGN:
Ty Dolla $ign thrilled his hometown crowd with his ultra smooth vocals (Photo credit: Rolling Loud / @jessicapadover)
Two L.A. crooners unite as Blxst joins Ty to perform their smash hit “Chosen” (Photo credit: Rolling Loud / @jessicapadover)
2 CHAINZ:
2 Chainz digs deep into his bag of hits, including “I’m Different,” “It’s A Vibe,” and “Duffle Bag Boy” from his days in Playaz Circle (Photo credit: Rolling Loud / @justnjames)
FRENCH MONTANA:
The New Yorker travels coast-to-coast, bringing his boisterous attitude and Billboard hits (Credit: Rolling Loud / @henryhwu)
BIA:
The 2021 breakout star rocks designer as she performs her hit “WHOLE LOTTA MONEY” (Rolling Loud/@shaunllewellyn)
ACTION BRONSON:
The Queens-born multi-hyphenate bares his soul under the luminous Cali moon (Rolling Loud/@srodriguez92)
CALI NATIVES:
BLXST (Credit: Rolling Loud / @themcdub)
MOZZY (Credit: Rolling Loud / @jessicapadover)
RISING STARS:
YUNG BLEU (Credit: Rolling Loud / @justnjames_)
SPOTEMGOTTEM (Credit: Rolling Loud / @Eazypho)
SCENES FROM THE FESTIVAL:
(Credit: Rolling Loud / @justnjames)
(Credit: Rolling Loud / @jessicapadover)
(Credit: Rolling Loud / @itchyeyephotos)
(Credit: Rolling Loud / @katialuu)
Critical Praise:
#4 on Pollstar’s List of 2020’s Top Livestreamers
“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
“Rolling Loud continues to prove its hip-hop tastemaking status is no fluke” – Pollstar
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 returns from a 18-month hiatus on July 23rd-25th, with the sold out Rolling Loud Miami 2021, its biggest event yet, bringing in over 75,000 fans per day to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL. With headliners Travis Scott, Post Malone and A$AP Rocky, Rolling Loud Miami 2021 is 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 kicks off a massive year for the festival brand, arriving ahead of Rolling Loud New York, headlined by Travis Scott, J. Cole, and 50 Cent, in October and Rolling Loud California, headlined by J. Cole, Kid Cudi, and Future, in December.
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.
The Harvey, IL Rapper Struts His Stuff Over Beats From Songs by Chief Keef, Baby Keem, Kodak Black & More
Critical Praise:
“Ty is a lyrical rapper, but his dense thickets of wordplay are more concerned with depicting scenes and telling stories than drawing attention to their own cleverness.” – Pitchfork
“Ty Money hails from Harvey, Illinois, a suburb on Chicago’s South Side. He’s been recording for years, weaving subtly artful narratives about life in his far-flung, poverty-stricken city.” – Noisey
“Each volume has showcased what makes Money stand out: his vivid narratives of street life, freighted with pathos, delivered in a rush of syllables that cuts through the instrumentals like a souped-up car racing through a mountain tunnel.” – Chicago Reader
The Mixtape:
Specializing in gritty, true-to-life rhymes delivered with snappy wordplay, Chicago-area rapper Fat Money (fka Ty Money) is ready to turn heads. Starting a new chapter in his career, the artist shares Disruptive, a brand new mixtape. The new tape finds the artist flexing his lyrical muscles over well-known beats, ranging from Young Nudy‘s creeping “Mini Me,” to fellow Chicago rapper Chief Keef‘s fierce “Harley Quinn,” to Beanie Sigel & Jay Z’s classic soul-sampler “It’s On.” Earlier this year, Fat Money shared a video of his freestyle over Baby Keem & Kendrick Lamar’s “Family Ties,” an effort that shows Fat Money’s willingness to go toe-to-toe with the best rappers in the game. Dedicated to the memory of Virgil Abloh, Disruptive is available to stream on SoundCloud and YouTube.
Born and raised in Harvey, Illinois, an exurb 30 mins south of Chicago, Fat Money has built a loyal following since emerging onto the scene in 2011. He earned critical acclaim with his 2015 mixtape Cinco De Money, a dark and dense project that delivered street-level stories about his hometown. The artist kept the Cinco De Money mixtape series going for six years, each tape arriving on May 5th and each tape expanding Fat Money’s sonic world and stylistic palette. Now, Fat Money is ready to disrupt old patterns, and put the industry on notice—there’s no stopping his takeover.
Disruptive tracklist:
1. Mini Me (Young Nudy cover)
2. On God (BiC Fizzle ft. Gucci Mane & Cootie cover)
3. LLC (Money Man cover)
4. Family Ties (Baby Keem cover)
5. Harley Quinn (Chief Keef cover)
6. Super Gremlin (Kodak Black cover)
7. It’s On (Beanie Sigel cover)
Fat Money is focused on reinvention. Since the mid-2010s, the Chicago-born rapper has delivered lyrically sharp, narratively rich, and emotionally nuanced street rap as Ty Money. Each mixtape and the six volumes of his annual Cinco De Money series brought listeners to 147th St. and Sibley Blvd. in his hometown of Harvey, Illinois, the war-torn block where emptied clips lead to closed casket funerals and physical scars form long before psychological wounds heal. After years of prison stints and staunch independence, he’s free, working with SALXCO management, and signed to EMPIRE, creating the most emotionally affecting and stylistically versatile music of his career. The change to Fat Money, which everyone calls him in his hood, signifies Money growing into himself: personally, professionally, artistically.
Rolling Loud Reveals New Merch for California 2021, Including Collabs With Kappa and Designer Humans
Headlined by Kid Cudi, J. Cole & Future, Rolling Loud California Occurs at NOS Event Center in San Bernardino, CA This Weekend
The World’s Premiere Rap Festival Announces Partnership with Fanaply to Launch “Loud League” NFT Program–Fans Can Compete and Collect Them All
The Announcement:
Rolling Loud is known for its expert curation, both in its star-studded festival lineups and impeccable selection of merch. Today, Rolling Loud highlights the new merch and collabs created especially for Rolling Loud California 2021, occurring this weekend. Along with Rolling Loud’s own designs for hoodies, t-shirts, hats, and more inspired by the festival’s SoCal setting, Rolling Loud recently announced collaborations with Kappa and Designer Humans.
Inspired by the rolling hills and bright lights of Hollywood, the Designer Humans collection features a custom t-shirt and hoodie and will only be available during Rolling Loud California. Announced earlier this week, the collaborative RL x Kappa collection will include tracksuits, soccer and goalie jerseys, hoodies, sweatpants, bucket hat, snapback, and top-selling Mitel slides with distinctive Kappa x Rolling Loud branding throughout. The 7-piece limited edition capsule collection launched with a video featuring NorCal rap icon Mozzy, and follows the successful Kappa x Rolling Loud collaboration for Rolling Loud New York.
Along with the merch details, Rolling Loud announces that they’ve partnered with Fanaply, one of the leading developers of eco-friendly NFTs in music, sports and entertainment, to launch “Loud League,” Rolling Loud’s first-ever NFT program. During Rolling Loud California, the festival will release its first-ever NFTs, offered for free to Rolling Loud California attendees. Fans can earn these NFTs via QR code by checking in to stages or particular activations around the festival. Fans can check the Rolling Loud “Loud League” leaderboard to see where they stand. Collecting these free NFTs now will grant these fans rewards and access to other Rolling Loud events and to the larger “Loud League” program in 2022.
The fourth Rolling Loud to occur in Southern California, Rolling Loud California 2021 promises a mix of national names and local heroes that paint a picture of rap’s current moment while also nodding at the rich history of the bustling West Coast rap scene. The festival is headlined by Kid Cudi, making his first Rolling Loud performance, J. Cole, and Future. Beyond the headliners is a deep roster of rap’s hottest names, plus plenty of local Cali heroes to give the festival a truly West Coast feel.
During the festival, Rolling Loud will exclusively broadcast the livestream via Twitch. Hosted by Hakeem Rowe, Tallie Spencer, Jacques Morel, Sade Vanessa, and Brittany Renner, the livestream will feature the high production value of Rolling Loud’s previous “Loud Stream” virtual festivals, with a curated stream of live artists performances, exclusive interviews, behind the scenes content, and an active Twitch chat, which will remain open throughout the stream. Featuring performances from artists like J. Cole, Future, Playboi Carti, and more, plus appearances and commentary from special guests, the Rolling Loud California livestream airs from 3pm-11pm PT on Friday 12/10, 1pm-12am PT on Saturday 12/11, and 1pm-11pm PT on Sunday 12/12, only at Twitch.Tv/RollingLoud.
Rolling Loud California is the third Rolling Loud festival of the year. Rolling Loud triumphantly returned with the blockbuster Rolling Loud Miami 2021, which marked live rap music’s coming out party after a year stuck inside. Earlier this fall, Rolling Loud embarked on its second foray to the Big Apple, hosting Rolling Loud New York 2021 at Citi Field, with headliners including 50 Cent and J. Cole.
With Rolling Loud California, the biggest rap festival in the world closes out another successful year. Check back for more from the festival throughout the weekend.
In accordance with state guidelines in California, Rolling Loud will be requiring proof of other COVID vaccination or negative COVID test prior to entering the upcoming festival.
“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 $20,000 for VIP packages. Of course, imitators are cropping up.” – Pollstar
“…within five years Rolling Loud has grown into one of the biggest hip-hop brands in the world. Locally, it has surpassed rival events Ultra and III Points in stature and rivals prestige festivals like Coachella.” – Miami New Times
Founded by Matt Zingler & Tariq Cherif as a one-day Miami show, Rolling Loud has grown into a global festival phenomenon, putting on shows on both coasts and in multiple countries. Rolling Loud is the premier festival brand in hip-hop, known for its expert curation of wide-ranging lineups that reflect the state of the genre.
The festival returned from a 18-month hiatus on July 23rd-25th, with the sold out Rolling Loud Miami 2021, its biggest event yet, bringing in over 85,000 fans per day to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL. With headliners like Post Malone and A$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.
Audio: Dro Kenji – “FINDERS KEEPERS” ft. Internet Money & Scorey
The Internet Money & MiraTouch Golden Child Connects with Syracuse Riser Scorey on Love Ballad Banger
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 Song:
In an era when young artists are often thrust into the spotlight overnight and forced to learn and adapt along the way, Dro Kenji stands out as a rarity who came into the game fully prepared to dominate with his music on a frequent, consistent basis. Continuing that trend, Dro Kenji returns today to share “FINDERS KEEPERS,” featuring an appearance from Syracuse native and Polo G-signee, Scorey.
Featuring a lively, dynamic Internet Money instrumental, courtesy of Nick Mira, Nash & Taz Taylor, with catchy guitar loops and a bouncy bass line, the track sees Dro Kenji navigating his newfound success, maneuvering past his opposition while holding his lover close. Kenji 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.” “FINDERS KEEPERS” is the latest single from Dro Kenji’s upcoming album, WITH OR WITHOUT YOU, due to arrive in January 2022 via Internet Money Records/MiraTouch/10kProjects. The track arrives following lead single “Vanish,” which has amassed over 1.5 million Spotify streams since its late October release.
With his forthcoming album, Dro Kenji looks to kick off 2022 with the same high-octane energy he unleashed in 2021. This past year saw Kenji embark on his first headlining national tour, which he wraps up this weekend 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 (10 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.” With over 15.6 million streams on Spotify since its release in June, F*CK YOUR FEELINGS is available everywhere via Internet Money Records/MiraTouch/10k Projects.
Please consider Dro Kenji’s music when compiling your year-end lists and stay tuned for more from Dro Kenji in 2022, including new music released through Nick Mira’s MiraTouch imprint.
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.
“Bourne’s raps are wordplay-heavy, funneling boasts about money and fashion, flirtations with lovers, and the occasional autobiographical gem through the tried-and-true art of the metaphor.” – Pitchfork
“these are easily Bourne’s strangest and most thrilling designs. They can feel equal parts absurd and scintillating, like plugging a jailbroken Super Nintendo into a particle accelerator or rigging an augmented reality headset to convert the pixels of cartoon gifs into sounds.” – Pitchfork
The Album + Video:
December 10, 2021 — (Hollywood, CA) — Today, TM88 and Pi’erreBourne return with Yo!88, their sleek new highly-anticipated joint album laced with radiant production, infectious hooks, and features from WizKhalifa and YoungNudy. TM88 & Pi’erre Bourne combine their skills to create a masterpiece for their fans in time for the holidays fusing Pi’erre Bourne’s introspective rapping over full-production from TM88’s catchy anomalous crafted beats. The album is out today on Capitol Records / TaylorGang / InterscopeRecords / SossHouse and it arrives alongside the video for “Pop Out,” a stylish track that evokes all the effortless cool of its two creators.
Watch the Cam Busby (LilBaby, MeganTheeStallion, LilTjay) directed visual for “Pop Out” HERE.
On “Pop Out,” one of the album’s stalwart standouts, Pi’erre Bourne raps over retro synths and insistent trap percussion, bringing his vivid imagistic memories and free-associative flexes to fruition. “I’m on the South Side — Curtis Jackson,” a nod to fellow NYC Queens native 50Cent he raps, “Feel like a casting, n***** be acting when they be rapping.” The accompanying video looks like it was filmed through Pi’erre Bourne’s signature sleepy purple haze, and in the clip, Pi’erre Bourne and TM88 oscillate between the block and the highway as they pop bottles and celebrate their squad running the streets of Queens and Soho. Elsewhere on the album, the duo teams up with Taylor Gang affiliate WizKhalifa (“ChitChat”) and YoungNudy (“RicherDreams”) for tracks that push Yo!88’s luminous trap energy to totally new realms.
Yo!88 is a long time coming – the two hitmakers have been teasing the album in interviews and online for a while now. Naturally, that’s only led fans to speculate about what’s to come and, given the two artists’ genuine friendship and natural chemistry, it isn’t hard to see why. Fans got their first glimpse of Yo!88 when Bourne and TM88 released “Block Boy,” the glistening, energetic offering that received recognition from TheFADER, Pitchfork, Complex, HNHH and more. Now that Yo!88 is out, they’re only adding to the lengthy legacies they’ve each created individually.
For years now, these two have helped define an era of hip-hop. GRAMMY®/NAACP nominated, TM88 helped develop the vibrant aesthetic of trap music from the 2010s to now. In 2017, he produced Lil Uzi Vert’s “XO TOUR Llif3,” a song that’s been certified 7x platinum since its release. More recently, he produced “Way 2 Sexy,” a Future and Young Thug-assisted Drake song that peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. For his part, Pi’erre Bourne first left his mark as a producer. He kicked off his career working on massive singles for Playboi Carti (“Magnolia”), topped Billboard’s Hot 100 Producer chart working with Lil Uzi Vert (Eternal Atake), and eventually became a GRAMMY® Award winning producer (Kanye West’s Jesus Is King) – all the while establishing himself as a successful rapper in his own right with his solo critically acclaimed albums The Life of Pi’erre 4 and The Life of Pi’erre 5, which was recently listed as one of Complex’s“Top 50 Albums of 2021.” With their team-up and the vibrant Yo!88, it’s clear that these two rap greats are ready to make yet another seismic impact.
Rolling Loud Announces Set Times for Rolling Loud California 2021
The World’s Premier Rap Festival Heads to San Bernardino For Three Action Packed Days This Weekend
Watch the Livestream Exclusively on Twitch, Airing From 3pm-11pm PT on Friday, 1pm-12am PT on Saturday, and 1pm-11pm PT on Sunday
Headlined by Kid Cudi, J. Cole, and Future, Rolling Loud California Occurs at NOS Event Center in San Bernardino, CA on 12/10-12/12
The Announcement:
Bringing the world’s premier rap festival to the West Coast, Rolling Loud California 2021 promises three days of non-stop music from some of the genre’s biggest names and hottest rising stars. Today, Rolling Loud announces the set times and livestream details for this weekend’s festival, occurring 12/10-12/12 at NOS Event Center in San Bernardino, CA. All set times are subject to change.
Hosted by Hakeem Rowe, Tallie Spencer, and Jacques Morel and airing exclusively on Twitch, the livestream provides a premium, at-home experience for any fan who can’t be on the ground this weekend. The broadcast will feature the high production value of Rolling Loud’s previous “Loud Stream” virtual festivals, with a curated stream of live artists performances, exclusive interviews, and behind the scenes content. The Twitch chat will be open for the entire stream, and viewers will be able to vote on which artist performances they want to see in real time. Featuring performances from artists like J. Cole, Future, Playboi Carti, and more, plus appearances and commentary from special guests, the Rolling Loud California livestream airs from 3pm-11pm PT on Friday 12/10, 1pm-12am PT on Saturday 12/11, and 1pm-11pm PT on Sunday 12/12, only at Twitch.Tv/RollingLoud.
The Rolling Loud California 2021 livestream follows in the wake of previous “Loud Stream” virtual festivals that Rolling Loud hosted in partnership with Twitch. Rolling Loud hosted three multi-day “Loud Stream” festivals on Twitch, with headliners like Trippie Redd, Swae Lee, Gunna, Ski Mask The Slump God, Fetty Wap, and Lil Skies, drawing millions of unique viewers and landing multiple events in Pollstar’s Year-End Livestream Chart. Since the return of live music, heralded by the massively successful Rolling Loud Miami 2021, the Rolling Loud team have adapted what they learned during their livestreaming era to help enhance the Rolling Loud experience for viewers at home.
The fourth Rolling Loud to occur in Southern California, Rolling Loud California 2021 promises a mix of national names and local heroes that paint a picture of rap’s current moment while also nodding at the rich history of the bustling West Coast rap scene. The festival is headlined by Kid Cudi, making his first Rolling Loud performance, J. Cole, and Future. Beyond the headliners is a deep roster of rap’s hottest names, including A-listers, like Wiz Khalifa, Playboi Carti, Moneybagg Yo and Lil Durk, young superstars like Polo G,Rod Wave, Lil Tjay, Jack Harlow, and Ski Mask The Slump God, up-and-comers, like Toosii, 42 Dugg, Morray, $NOT, and Latto, and Cali heroes like Ty Dolla $ign, Drakeo The Ruler, Blxst, Kalan.FrFr,and Bino Rideaux, giving the festival a truly West Coast feel.
Rolling Loud California is the third Rolling Loud festival of the year. Rolling Loud triumphantly returned with the blockbuster Rolling Loud Miami 2021, which marked live rap music’s coming out party after a year stuck inside. Earlier this fall, Rolling Loud embarked on its second foray to the Big Apple, hosting Rolling Loud New York 2021 at Citi Field, with headliners including 50 Cent and J. Cole.
With Rolling Loud California, the biggest rap festival in the world closes out another successful year. Check back for more from the festival throughout the weekend.
In accordance with state guidelines in California, Rolling Loud will be requiring proof of other COVID vaccination or negative COVID test prior to entering the upcoming festival.
“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 $20,000 for VIP packages. Of course, imitators are cropping up.” – Pollstar
“…within five years Rolling Loud has grown into one of the biggest hip-hop brands in the world. Locally, it has surpassed rival events Ultra and III Points in stature and rivals prestige festivals like Coachella.” – Miami New Times
Founded by Matt Zingler & Tariq Cherif as a one-day Miami show, Rolling Loud has grown into a global festival phenomenon, putting on shows on both coasts and in multiple countries. Rolling Loud is the premier festival brand in hip-hop, known for its expert curation of wide-ranging lineups that reflect the state of the genre.
The festival returned from a 18-month hiatus on July 23rd-25th, with the sold out Rolling Loud Miami 2021, its biggest event yet, bringing in over 85,000 fans per day to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL. With headliners like Post Malone and A$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.
DUSTY LOCANE Named to the RIAA’s Class of 2021 Off the Strength of “ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN FREESTYLE”
The RIAA Class of 2021 Honors Artists Who Received Their First GOLD or PLATINUM Certification This Year
Culminating His Rise to the Top of the Brooklyn Rap Game, DUSTY LOCANE Released His Debut Album UNTAMED Last Week
Critical Praise:
“A rumbling voice that could be picked up on a seismograph” – Pitchfork
“He’s going to be a force to be reckoned with, and he knows it.” – Lyrical Lemonade
“…hard-hitting rhymes that will surely be heard blaring over car stereos in Brooklyn.” – HotNewHipHop
The Announcement:
DUSTY LOCANE emerged as a vital voice in Brooklyn’s rap scene, collecting hit after hit with his bone-deep voice and natural gravitas. This week, DUSTY revealed that he’s been named to the RIAA’s Class Of 2021, a group of artists honored for earning their first GOLD or PLATINUM certification from the RIAA in 2021. DUSTY LOCANE earned his first GOLD record this year–his song “ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN FREESTYLE,” an eerily melodic banger that generated over 200 million combined streams. DUSTY joins an exclusive group of artists including Olivia Rodrigo, Coi Leray, Pooh Shiesty, and many more as part of the RIAA’s inaugural class of newly-certified artists.
Last week, DUSTY shared UNTAMED, his hotly-anticipated debut album. Over the course of 20 tracks, DUSTY perfected his unique flavor of Brooklyn drill. DUSTY attacks beats with a sonorous sing-song flow, often backed up by ethereal and haunting vocal samples. The album benefits from the artist’s stark and aggressive lyricism, as he shows fierce loyalty to his suvies and promises a rough time for anyone who dares cross him.
The new album is home to “ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN FREESTYLE,” as well as follow-up smashes like “Rolando (Caught In The Rain)” and “RUMBLE” that dropped earlier this year and still can be heard blaring out of car stereos from Bed Stuy to Bay Ridge. DUSTY’s single “ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN PT. 2 (PICTURE ME)“ is currently scorching hot on TikTok, trending at #9 on the app’s list of Top Trending U.S. Songs last week. Just last month, DUSTY shared a hair-raising video for “CANES WORLD,” as DUSTY opened up about his life in the trenches and his motivations to leave that life in the past.
Beyond the hits, the project introduces new bangers like the apocalyptic, guitar-flecked “ICED OUT,” the thug love anthem “WHAT YOU NEED,” and the Canarsie neighborhood theme song “FLOSS STATE OF MIND.” Featuring appearances from Yung Bleu, OBN Jay, Rah Swish, and more, UNTAMED is available everywhere via EMPIRE.
With his debut album under his belt and the streets of Brooklyn on his back, DUSTY LOCANE is a great bet to reach the upper echelons of rap stardom.
UNTAMED Tracklist:
1. CHANGE YOU
2. ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN FREESTYLE
3. RUMBLE
4. MISFIT ft. OBN Jay
5. ICED OUT
6. DEADLY
7. FLOSS STATE OF MIND
8. CHEAT CODE
9. 5TH CLOCC FINEST ft. 3Kizzy
10. WHAT YOU NEED ft. Yung Bleu
11. ROLANDO (Caught In The Rain)
12. ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN PT. 2 (PICTURE ME)
13. BEST FRIEND ft. 8ANDITT
14. EDEN ROCC
15. A DAY ON THE FIFTH
16. REWIND
17. GET MONEY
18. BIG WOOS ft. Rah Swish
19. CLICC CLACC ft. KG MORE BREESH
20. CANES WORLD
“It was all in front of me; I just had to go get it,” DUSTY LOCANE says at the beginning of his viral drill heater, “Rolando (Caught In The Rain).” That’s an understatement: less than a year after he started rapping, the gruff-voiced, baby-faced Brooklyn spitter has experienced one of the most meteoric rises in recent rap history. He’s only released three songs, and he’s already a star: his breakout song “R60LLXN N CONTROLLIN” went viral instantly, and its follow-up “Rolando” garnered 1 million video plays and 1 million streams in its first week. The world is closely watching Dusty, and he’s ready to deliver.
The Bay Collides with The U.K. in Latest Video from Offset Jim’s Rich Off The Pack
Critical Praise:
“Offset Jim’s music feels current in the sense that it’s vital, loose, and alive, but it also feels totally unswayed by the creative winds of the moment. From production to slang to wobbling beats with stuttering drums, it’s aggressively, audaciously Oakland.” – Vulture
“Offset Jim keeps his voice low-key and contained, and somehow that makes his sh*t slap all the harder.” – Stereogum
“Jim prefers his deadpan snarl, firing off boasts and threats like poisonous darts… You’re probably not going to miss anything, but you’ll still want to run it back.”- Passion of the Weiss
The Video:
Today, Offset Jim once again reminds the world why he cannot be contained to the Bay, releasing visuals for his international banger, “Chinese K” featuring U.K. rap star, Aitch. While Aitch has become something of a household name in the U.K. in his own right, the pair first connected when the Manchester rapper posted an Instagram story of himself rapping Jim’s hit, “No Pressure,” word-for-word, hailing the Oakland native as a G.O.A.T. Finally reconnecting to drop Fred Focus-directed visuals, “Chinese K” shows the international duo flexing as usual while the rappers bounce their smack talk off one another: “Smoke blunts big as little n****s/Dior to the floor, you in Hilfiger,” spits Jim, and Aitch retorts, “From the Bay to the UK we got a shipment/Broski in the trap, but s***, he run it like a business.” “Chinese K” is just the latest addition in a series of recent high-production videos from Offset Jim’s critically acclaimed Rich Off The Pack, like “Thugs Cry,” “Off White Mikes” ft. EST Gee “Members Only,” “Face Card” ft. Kenny Beats, “Make No Sense” ft. Babyface Ray, and “Regular.”
The video for “Chinese K” arrives while Offset Jim wraps up a career year in major fashion. As he prepares for his set at Rolling Loud California this weekend, Bay Area fans have been buzzing with excitement since Jim’s friend and 3-time NBA Champion with the Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson, shouted Jim out on his Instagram live, urging fans to cop Rich Off The Pack.
“I like his music a lot,” said Thompson to The Ringer, “He’s just really the voice of Oakland. His storytelling, his ability with flow and talking about where he came from. The struggles, the obstacles he had to overcome to be the artist he is today. That’s why I like him a lot. Because he’s raw and he’s authentic to who he is.”
In a heavily populated Bay Area rap scene, Offset Jim has remained a standout since emerging alongside fellow Play Runners Association rapper ALLBLACK in 2018 and 2019. Hailing from the notorious Oakland neighborhood known as the Murder Dubs, Jim first made waves after back-to-back releases in 2019. The first was his solo effort, No Pressure, featuring the local hit titular track, which amassed over 3 million streams, and the second, 22nd Ways, a collab mixtape with ALLBLACK, featuring the Bay Area favorite, “Trip On It,” which amassed over 8 million streams. With the release of Rich Off The Pack, Offset Jim has put the nation on notice that he’s far more than just the Bay Area’s problem now.
Please consider Offset Jim’s music when compiling your year-end lists, and be sure to catch his upcoming performance at Rolling Loud California this weekend.
Video: Lil Gotit – “Walk Down” ft. Biggz, CEO Trayle & Lil Double 0
The ATL Trap Star Cleans House and Tosses Opps to Clear the Way for Upcoming Big Zone 3 Project
Critical Praise:
“The centerpiece of the mixtape is the hypnotic “Get N Dere Gang,” which I could see holding a permanent place on DJ sets throughout the summer.” – Pitchfork
“Lil Gotit is continuing to slither his way to the top of Atlanta’s new wave with the release of his latest project, Top Chef Gotit.” – Complex
“Since officially stepping into the Rap game in 2017, Gotit has been one of several standout stars to come out of Atlanta’s buzzing scene and he continues to impress with each new release.” – HotNewHipHop
“Lil Gotit is the heir to Atlanta’s rap throne” – The FADER
The Video:
After feeding the streets with Top Chef Gotit, Atlanta’s one and only “real hood baby” must have left the stove running. Continuing to cook up heat and icing any opp that can’t handle it along the way, Lil Gotit returns to share “Walk Down,” his new single and music video. Featuring a guest verse from rising rapper CEO Trayle, as well as spots from Gotit’s associates Biggz and Lil Double 0, the track sees Gotit in his musical element, flashing an unfazed flow over a frantic, menacing trap instrumental. His laid-back bars, juxtaposed with the urgent, booming beat on the track gives a sense that the threat of imminent danger is looming, but not for Gotit. Directed by ShotByWolf, the video finds Lil Gotit and company trading verse after verse, sending warning shots toward anyone bold enough to try them.
“Walk Down” arrives ahead of Lil Gotit’s forthcoming project, Big Zone 3, due for release in early 2022 via Alamo Records. Big Zone 3 follows behind the Gunna-executive-produced Top Chef Gotit, released early this past summer. Featuring multiple appearances from his brother Lil Keed, an additional verse from NAV, and additional guest spots from Yak Gotti, Millie Go Lightly, and Lil Pj, Top Chef Gotit marked Gotit’s ascension into the ranks of Atlanta’s trap elite, earning the official co-sign from his slimes like Young Thug. With Big Zone 3, Gotit looks to cement his legacy within ATL’s storied trap tradition.
Stay tuned for much more from Lil Gotit in early 2022.
“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.
Farruko Ends First Leg of US Tour Celebrating an Unprecedented Year of Successes
The multi-Platinum selling artist gave a showstopping and emotional performance to a sold out crowd of over 11,000 at Orlando’s Amway Center
The Puerto Rican Urbano performer’s LA 167 album and His Global Hit “PEPAS” made history this year, Time magazine, NY Times and Billboard include “PEPAS” in Top Songs and Albums of 2021 lists
Credit: Imagine It Media
The Announcement:
December 7, 2021 (Miami, FL) – Latin music’s most versatile and experimental artist, Farruko, wrapped up the first leg of his first US Arena tour this past Sunday at Orlando’s Amway Center to a sold out crowd. This was one of 8 sold out shows on this tour which included stops in California, Colorado, 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.
This year, the platinum selling artist continues to make history with the release of his critically acclaimed album LA 167 which includes the global phenomenon hit song “PEPAS“. Since its debut, “PEPAS” has encountered vastly monumental successes having charted No. 1 on Billboard’s “Hot Dance/Electronic Songs” (8 weeks in the top spot), “Hot Latin Songs,” “Dance/Electronic Digital Song Sales,” “Dance/Electronic Streaming Songs,” and “Latin Digital Song Sales” charts. The song was listed at No. 29 on Billboard’s Hot 100, currently ranks at No. 5 on Spotify’s Global Top 50 chart, and has over 830 million total streams (it has well over 236.9 million views on YouTube alone) and over 3 million daily streams. The recognitions did not stop there. Farruko’s LA 167 was included in The New York Times “Best Albums of 2021” list and “PEPAS” was named by TimeMagazine as the number 1 song of 2021 and Billboard recognized the global phenomenon song in the Top Ten Hot Latin Songs of 2021.
Farruko hit another milestone with “PEPAS” and was nominated for the 2021 American Music Awards in the “Favorite Latin Song” category. “PEPAS” continues to establish itself as a massive Latin crossover hit with Farruko’s late-night TV debut performance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Sony Music Latin and Carbon Fiber Music have also awarded the performer with commemorative plaques celebrating the song’s global success and the myriad of certifications it has received: Platinum in Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and Mexico; CAC Platinum + Gold; 2X Platinum in Peru; 3X Platinum in Spain; Gold in Italy, Switzerland, and the Netherlands; and 8X Platinum in the United States.
The Puerto Rican multi-Platinum selling artist’s success doesn’t end with “PEPAS” as his album LA 167 also debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Latin Albums chart. For this album, Farruko felt inspired by the nostalgia of his youth and named the album after the main highway that runs through his hometown of Bayamón, PR. Staying true to his nonconformist approach to music, LA 167 fuses and embodies the eclectic subcultures and genres that have inspired the singer-songwriter throughout his career. As an ode to both Puerto Rico and his late grandfather, the album is nostalgic, festive, vulnerable, and full of pride for the Urbano pioneer’s heritage. LA 167 features 25 expansive and unrivaled tracks that coalesce perreo beats, “pilita” (the EDM sounds popularized by the Dominican Republic), and reggae.
Farruko’s hit anthem “La Tóxica” also finds a home on the new album. “La Tóxica” debuted in the top 10 of Billboard’s “Latin Digital Song Sales” list, in the top 15 of “Hot Latin Songs,” peaked at No. 1 in nine countries, No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Latin Songs and Latin Streaming Songs, and scored him a 2021 Latin GRAMMY® nomination in the “Best Reggaeton Performance” category. Most recently the singer-songwriter released the video for his song “Amigos Nuevos No” with Fresy Franklin, which is also part of the album. The album also sees Farruko team up with Ñengo Flow, Myke Towers, Jay Wheeler, Brray, Secreto, Noriel, Luar, White Star, India Martinez, Lenier, Jamaican dancehall singer Mavado, and repeat collaborator Pedro Capó, who worked with the performer in 2019 for the 25x Platinum hit “Calma.” In February 2022 Farruko will kick off the second les 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.
Social Media Following: Instagram (18.5 million), Twitter (4.7 million), Facebook (15 million likes), YouTube (13.7 million)
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”)
“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
“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.
The Rapper Whips Through the Chicago Streets in Special Effects Filled Video Off of His F1LTHY-Produced WAKE UP LUCKI Album, Out Now via EMPIRE
Critical Praise:
“Lucki Can Tell Nothing But His Truth…Lucki is shameless about his pain. Whether the 22-year-old Chicagoan—born Lucki Camel Jr.—is rapping about his bouts with depression and anxiety, his role in sabotaging his romantic relationships, or his prescription drug addiction, he refuses to hide his flaws. His candor about his life lows has made him a relatable antihero to a loyal cult following of fans who regularly take to social media with comments like, ‘Lucki changed my life’ or ‘Lucki gets me’ whenever he releases new music or opens up about his struggles publicly.” – Pitchfork
“Lucki has been applying the truths of this life to his music for the better part of a decade.” – Complex
“Lucki has been building his resume for years, crafting understated, infectious tracks that have shades of fellow Chicagoans like Chief Keef and Supa Bwe, but a swagger and sensibility that is all his own.” – Pigeons & Planes
“Lucki’s music can feel like you’re about to be submerged in a swamp or like you’re about to fall asleep behind the wheel of the Lamborghini from Suicide Squad“ – The FADER
‘On this blessed day, we also get Days B4 III, the new full-length from Lucki, the muttering young cult-rap icon whose self-destructive lyrics have the power to punch you in your soul.” – Stereogum
The Video:
Forever marching to the beat of his own drum, LUCKI has an undeniable knack for crafting meditative rhymes, coupled with his attentive ear for production. Taking a look at his position as an underground icon, LUCKI shares “U.G.K,” his new LONEWOLF-directed video. The visual bounces back and forth between behind the scenes footage of LUCKI shooting the video then jumps to the Chicago rapper throwing down bars as he speeds in his foreign car. Full of addicting bars and flawless production, “U.G.K.” is a highlight track from the recently released WAKE UP LUCKI, a collaboration between LUCKI and F1LTHY.
Spanning 12 tracks, WAKE UP LUCKI continues the 25-year-old artist’s penchant for existential and starkly honest lyricism, with an added sense of urgency from F1LTHY’s video game-worthy beats. The new tape is home to the recent single, “NEPTUNE V.S INDUSTRY,” a bite-sized banger that examines LUCKI’s role as a “real geek boy in the industry,” and generated over 1.3 million views on its LONEWOLF-directed video. New highlights include “NEEDED,” which combines an instrumental that wouldn’t sound out of place on Dance Dance Revolution with LUCKI’s triplet-flow flexes and “LOVE IS WAR,” a heartbreaking tale of relationship failure and relapse.
WAKE UP LUCKI is the culmination of an action-packed 2021, packed with music and live performances. In the Spring, LUCKI released Almost Woke, a double-single meant to prepare fans for his WAKE UP LUCKI artistic direction, home to “LifestyleBrazy” and “No Joke,” with the former racking up over 1 million streams on Spotify. Prior to the two pack, LUCKI dropped the Lyrical Lemonade-approved banger, “Greed” featuring Lil Yachty. Since these three tracks were gifted to the public, LUCKI has kept himself busy, playing his soulful catalogue at major music festivals across the U.S. including Summer Smash in Chicago and Rolling Loud in New York. The artist took a step forward in his career by embarking on two headlining tours alone in 2021, the “Almost There Tour” and the “Wake Up Lucki Tour,” the latter ending with a hometown show in Chicago on November 27. LUCKI will conclude his live shows with a performance at Rolling Loud California next weekend.
With WAKE UP LUCKI, LUCKI releases one of the most complete artistic statements of his career. Stay tuned for much more in 2022 from the young artist, plus plenty more music videos before the year ends.
Cultivating an ever-growing following since he debuted in the rap game in 2013 at 17, LUCKI has earned glowing praise from both critics and industry figures, including shoutouts from Pharrell and Justin Timberlake. He’s collaborated in the past with the likes of A$AP Rocky, Chance The Rapper, Playboi Carti and many others. The rapper formerly known as Lucki Eck$ feeds his fans with a consistent output of boundary-pushing music that plumbs the depths of his soul.
LUCKI had a breakout year in 2019, during which Lucki collaborated with ChaseTheMoney and Earl Sweatshirt, released acclaimed projects Freewave 3 and Days B4 III, and earned praise from Pitchfork, who raved “Lucki’s music works so well in large part due to his ear for production, plodding hi-hats that make it feel like your brain is stuck in quicksand, and his eerie, doomsday melodies.” 2020 was another banner year for the young artist, featuring the release of his 12-track project Almost There, home to the fan favorite single “Faith.”
The Global list of songs emphasizes TikTok’s international impact, with songs from four different countries dominating For You pages across the globe, and further illustrates TikTok’s effect on streaming numbers and chart positions. Originally released in 2019, previously unknown Australian Masked Wolf’s “Astronaut In The Ocean” rode a wave of TikTok virality to the Top Ten of the Billboard Hot 100, while TikTok helped “Beggin” racked up hundreds of millions of Spotify streams and make Måneskin a household name. The rest of the list brought mega hits created by teenagers: 17-year-old ElyOtto crafted the year’s hyperpop anthem with “SugarCrash!,” which the Calgary-born artist created between homework assignments, and garnering the artist a new record deal at RCA. Meanwhile, The Kid Laroi (highlighted by TikTok last year as a notable emerging artist) scored a global chart-topper (7 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100, 11 weeks atop the Australian Charts) when he recruited Justin Bieber to polish up a snippet that had been floating around TikTok for almost a year.
Music is a major driving force behind creativity on TikTok, so it was inevitable that musical artists, moments, and trends popped up throughout the rest of the global results.
After setting records with his TikTok LIVE performance at the UEFA Euros, superstar singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran was highlighted as a “creator who sparks joy.”
Named a “Breakthrough Creator.” BTS made their presence felt on TikTok around the globe, sharing videos soundtracked to number one hits like “Butter,” “Permission To Dance,” and “My Universe,” a collaboration with Coldplay. Olivia Rodrigo and Taylor Swift were also named breakthrough creators for their success on and off TikTok.
Legendary Swedish pop group ABBA made a splash when they joined TikTok this year, and earned recognition in TikTok’s “The Throwbacks” category
Golden voiced Scotsman Nathan Evans earned recognition in the #FYFaves section for somehow making Sea Shanties the world’s hottest genre in early 2021.
Perhaps the most unlikely music moment in a year full of unlikely music moments, TikTok highlighted the soundtrack of Nick Jr.’s The Backyardigans for inspiring two of the year’s most enduring trends.
Stay tuned next week when TikTok reveals its “Year On TikTok Music Report,” full of charts, fascinating data, and in-depth analysis about music on TikTok and TikTok’s impact on the music industry at large.
TikTok Reveals Top 10 U.S. and Top 5 Global Songs, Part of Its “Year On TikTok: 2021” Rewind
Popp Hunna Tops U.S. List, While Masked Wolf Tops Global List
Stay Tuned For Much More Data and In-Depth Analysis When TikTok Releases Its Full “Year On TikTok Music Report” Next Monday, December 13th
The News:
After a 2020 that made the world take notice, TikTok remained a dominant force in music in 2021, paving the way for the next generation of superstars, enabling current stars to meaningfully interact with their fans, and opening doors to underground and DIY scenes, exposing them to a global audience. Today, TikTok shared “Year On TikTok 2021-of-a-kind,” a year-end recap, reviewing some of the most impactful moments on the platform from the last calendar year. Music is at the core of TikTok and has a presence throughout the recap, but most notably in ‘The Playlist’ category, which listed TikTok’s Top 10 tracks in the US and Global Top 5.
The U.S. list highlights America’s unabiding love for hip-hop, and is a testament to the creativity and influence of Black creators on the platform. Popp Hunna’s “Adderall (Corvette Corvette)” emerged from the streets of Philadelphia to spur one of 2021’s hottest dance trends, and LPB Poody’s “Batman” also put up gaudy numbers behind user-created dance challenges. Meanwhile, Kayla Nicole’s baddie anthem provided an empowering soundtrack for anyone in the mood for flexing. Coi Leray scored a few hits on TikTok this year (including “No More Parties,” and “Ocean Prime,” a collab with BfB Da Packman), but the bouncy and playful “TWINNEM” proved to be the most ubiquitous. Doja Cat continued to be a TikTok favorite, as her glistening pop jam “Kiss Me More” inspired multiple trends, including one that highlighted the guest verse from SZA. The rest of the top 10 is a constellation of stars, including established faves like Cardi B and newcomers like Olivia Rodrigo, whose TikTok fueled rise made her the biggest breakout star of 2021.
The Global list of songs emphasizes TikTok’s international impact, with songs from four different countries dominating For You pages across the globe, and further illustrates TikTok’s effect on streaming numbers and chart positions. Originally released in 2019, previously unknown Australian Masked Wolf’s “Astronaut In The Ocean” rode a wave of TikTok virality to the Top Ten of the Billboard Hot 100, while TikTok helped “Beggin” racked up hundreds of millions of Spotify streams and make Måneskin a household name. The rest of the list brought mega hits created by teenagers: 17-year-old ElyOtto crafted the year’s hyperpop anthem with “SugarCrash!,” which the Calgary-born artist created between homework assignments, and garnering the artist a new record deal at RCA. Meanwhile, The Kid Laroi (highlighted by TikTok last year as a notable emerging artist) scored a global chart-topper (7 weeks atop the Billboard Hot 100, 11 weeks atop the Australian Charts) when he recruited Justin Bieber to polish up a snippet that had been floating around TikTok for almost a year.
Music is a major driving force behind creativity on TikTok, so it was inevitable that musical artists, moments, and trends popped up throughout the rest of the global results.
After setting records with his TikTok LIVE performance at the UEFA Euros, superstar singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran was highlighted as a “creator who sparks joy.”
Named a “Breakthrough Creator.” BTS made their presence felt on TikTok around the globe, sharing videos soundtracked to number one hits like “Butter,” “Permission To Dance,” and “My Universe,” a collaboration with Coldplay. Olivia Rodrigo and Taylor Swift were also named breakthrough creators for their success on and off TikTok.
Legendary Swedish pop group ABBA made a splash when they joined TikTok this year, and earned recognition in TikTok’s “The Throwbacks” category
Golden voiced Scotsman Nathan Evans earned recognition in the #FYFaves section for somehow making Sea Shanties the world’s hottest genre in early 2021.
Perhaps the most unlikely music moment in a year full of unlikely music moments, TikTok highlighted the soundtrack of Nick Jr.’s The Backyardigans for inspiring two of the year’s most enduring trends.
Stay tuned next week when TikTok reveals its “Year On TikTok Music Report,” full of charts, fascinating data, and in-depth analysis about music on TikTok and TikTok’s impact on the music industry at large.
The Acclaimed Rapper/Producer and SossHouse CEO Connects with the Multi-Platinum Producer for a New Song From Yo!88, Their Collab Project, Out 12/10
Critical Praise:
“Bourne’s raps are wordplay-heavy, funneling boasts about money and fashion, flirtations with lovers, and the occasional autobiographical gem through the tried-and-true art of the metaphor.” – Pitchfork
“these are easily Bourne’s strangest and most thrilling designs. They can feel equal parts absurd and scintillating, like plugging a jailbroken Super Nintendo into a particle accelerator or rigging an augmented reality headset to convert the pixels of cartoon gifs into sounds.” – Pitchfork
The Song:
December 3, 2021 – (Hollywood, CA) – Today, Pi’erre Bourne and TM88 release “Block Boy,” a glittering new collaboration soaked with colorful synths mixed with bold lyrics, outstanding beats, and memorable shoutouts to their day ones. On Yo!88, fans can expect lustrous and unique lyricism from Pi’erre rapping over the beats crafted from TM88 taking the reins on the full production.
“Block Boy” serves as the first offering from their forthcoming joint album, Yo!88, which is set to drop on December 10 on Capitol Records / Taylor Gang / Interscope Records / Soss House. Listen to “Block Boy” HERE.
Coasting over the glossy production, Pi’erre Bourne lets loose, reminding people of his love of where he came from, and how far his hard work has carried him. “Everywhere, yeah, I go I bring my block with me,” he warbles on the hook. With celebratory bars, luminous production, and a message that resonates on blocks everywhere, “Block Boy” is an example of Pi’erre Bourne and TM88 operating on full throttle.
Yo!88 is a long time coming – the two hitmakers have been teasing the album in interviews and online for a while now. Naturally, that’s only led fans to speculate about what’s to come and, given the two artists’ genuine friendship and natural chemistry, it isn’t hard to see why.
For years now, these two have helped define an era of hip-hop. GRAMMY®/NAACP nominated, TM88 helped develop the vibrant aesthetic of trap music from the 2010s to now. In 2017, he produced Lil Uzi Vert’s “XO TOUR Llif3,” a song that’s been certified 7x platinum since its release. More recently, he produced “Way 2 Sexy,” a Future and Young Thug-assisted Drake song that peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. For his part, Pi’erre Bourne first left his mark as a producer. He kicked off his career working on massive singles for Playboi Carti (“Magnolia”), topped Billboard’s Hot 100 Producer chart working with Lil Uzi Vert (Eternal Atake), and eventually became a GRAMMY® Award winning producer (Kanye West’s Jesus Is King) – all the while establishing himself as a successful rapper in his own right with his solo critically acclaimed albums The Life of Pi’erre 4 and The Life of Pi’erre 5, which was recently listed as one of Complex’s“Top 50 Albums of 2021.” Now, the two are teaming up, and if tracks like “Block Boy” are any indication, their combined powers should position them to make another seismic impact with Yo!88.
The San Francisco Crooner Puts the Healing Power of Music on Full Display with New Album, Featuring Appearances From Babyface Ray, PnB Rock, Rexx Life Raj, Lil Bean & More
The Album:
San Francisco Native Lil Yee has consistently proven his mastery of forging intimate connections with his listeners with an authentic feel that’s equally as street savvy as it is heartfelt. Continuing to use music as a healing process for himself and fans alike, Lil Yee returns to share his new album, Unbreakable, available now via G-Affair/EMPIRE.
Unbreakable serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of a man and his music. The journey of Lil Yee’s most personal album to date was born in the wake of tragedy, as Yee’s uncle, role model and biggest supporter, ChiAli was murdered in San Francisco in 2020. “It took a toll on me. It made me buckle down on who I am, what I’m here for, and what I need to do,” he admits. It moved the Bay Area artist to halt his original release plans and create a new album that honored the life of the man who helped Yee transition from the streets to a life as an artist and father. Recognizing his own strength and dedication to fulfilling the promises he made to his uncle, Lil Yee proves that Unbreakable is more than an album — it’s a personal mantra.
Unbreakable arrives following the release of recent singles “Dead & Gone” ft. Lil Bean and “Going Crazy,” both of which received visuals this past month. Featuring additional appearances from PnB Rock, Babyface Ray, Shaun Sloan, Lil Pete, TEC, Rexx Life Raj, Unbreakable is streaming everywhere via G-Affair/EMPIRE.
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, Lil Yee reminds the world that he refuses to be stopped: “I’ve had a life, and I’ve been through a lot. But it ain’t break me, so I’m still prevailing through it all.”
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.
Culminating His Fast Rise to the Top of the Brooklyn Rap Scene, UNTAMED Finds the Canarsie Native Perfecting His Basso-Voiced and Melodic Flavor of Drill Music
Critical Praise:
“A rumbling voice that could be picked up on a seismograph” – Pitchfork
“He’s going to be a force to be reckoned with, and he knows it.” – Lyrical Lemonade
“…hard-hitting rhymes that will surely be heard blaring over car stereos in Brooklyn.” – HotNewHipHop
The Album:
DUSTY LOCANE‘s booming rasp reverberated throughout the Five Boroughs in 2021, the 22-year-old artist scoring hit after hit en route to over 250 million streams. Now ready to show the world the full extent of his artistic prowess, the Canarsie rapper shares UNTAMED, his hotly-anticipated debut album. Though he rhymes with plenty of force, DUSTY’s flavor of drill stands apart because of its deep musicality–DUSTY attacks beats with a sonorous sing-song flow, often backed up by ethereal and haunting vocal samples. Spanning 20 tracks, the album benefits from the artist’s stark and aggressive lyricism, as he shows fierce loyalty to his suvies and promises a rough time for anyone who dares cross him.
The new album is home to DUSTY’s GOLD-certified breakout hit “ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN FREESTYLE,” an eerily melodic banger that generated over 200 million combined streams, as well as follow-up smashes like “Rolando (Caught In The Rain)” and “RUMBLE” that dropped earlier this year and still can be heard blaring out of car stereos from Bed Stuy to Bay Ridge. DUSTY’s hit single “ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN PT. 2 (PICTURE ME)“ is currently scorching hot on TikTok, trending at #9 on the app’s list of Top Trending U.S. Songs. Just last month, DUSTY shared a hair-raising video for “CANES WORLD,” as DUSTY opened up about his life in the trenches and his motivations to leave that life in the past.
Beyond the hits, the project introduces new bangers like the apocalyptic, guitar-flecked “ICED OUT,” the thug love anthem “WHAT YOU NEED,” and the Canarsie neighborhood theme song “FLOSS STATE OF MIND.” Featuring appearances from Yung Bleu, OBN Jay, Rah Swish, and more, UNTAMED is available everywhere via EMPIRE.
DUSTY LOCANE has been rapidly climbing up the NYC rap ladder, powered by the success of “ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN” and its follow-up singles. DUSTY’s second single, the follow-up hit “Rolando (Caught In The Rain),”proved that the WOO-affiliated rapper’s success was no fluke, racking up over 1 million YouTube views and 1 million Spotify streams in its first week and earning praise from Pitchfork. Both “ROLLIN & CONTROLLIN” and “Rolando” peaked in the Top 5 of Rolling Stone’s Trending 25 chart, and his third single “INTRO 2 ME, PT. 1” peaked in that chart’s top 10. On just his first four singles, the rapper racked up over 250 million combined audio and visual on-demand streams.
With his debut album under his belt and the streets of Brooklyn on his back, DUSTY LOCANE is a great bet to reach the upper echelons of rap stardom.
UNTAMED Tracklist:
1. CHANGE YOU
2. ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN FREESTYLE
3. RUMBLE
4. MISFIT ft. OBN Jay
5. ICED OUT
6. DEADLY
7. FLOSS STATE OF MIND
8. CHEAT CODE
9. 5TH CLOCC FINEST ft. 3Kizzy
10. WHAT YOU NEED ft. Yung Bleu
11. ROLANDO (Caught In The Rain)
12. ROLLIN N CONTROLLIN PT. 2 (PICTURE ME)
13. BEST FRIEND ft. 8ANDITT
14. EDEN ROCC
15. A DAY ON THE FIFTH
16. REWIND
17. GET MONEY
18. BIG WOOS ft. Rah Swish
19. CLICC CLACC ft. KG MORE BREESH
20. CANES WORLD
“It was all in front of me; I just had to go get it,” DUSTY LOCANE says at the beginning of his viral drill heater, “Rolando (Caught In The Rain).” That’s an understatement: less than a year after he started rapping, the gruff-voiced, baby-faced Brooklyn spitter has experienced one of the most meteoric rises in recent rap history. He’s only released three songs, and he’s already a star: his breakout song “R60LLXN N CONTROLLIN” went viral instantly, and its follow-up “Rolando” garnered 1 million video plays and 1 million streams in its first week. The world is closely watching Dusty, and he’s ready to deliver.
LUCKI Locks In For WAKE UP LUCKI, Produced in Full by F1LTHY of Working On Dying
The Chicago-Born Cult Hero Spins Narcotic Flows Into Infectious Hits Atop F1LTHY’s Hyperactive Production in His Highly-Anticipated 12-Track Project
Critical Praise:
“Lucki Can Tell Nothing But His Truth…Lucki is shameless about his pain. Whether the 22-year-old Chicagoan—born Lucki Camel Jr.—is rapping about his bouts with depression and anxiety, his role in sabotaging his romantic relationships, or his prescription drug addiction, he refuses to hide his flaws. His candor about his life lows has made him a relatable antihero to a loyal cult following of fans who regularly take to social media with comments like, ‘Lucki changed my life’ or ‘Lucki gets me’ whenever he releases new music or opens up about his struggles publicly.” – Pitchfork
“Lucki has been applying the truths of this life to his music for the better part of a decade.” – Complex
“Lucki has been building his resume for years, crafting understated, infectious tracks that have shades of fellow Chicagoans like Chief Keef and Supa Bwe, but a swagger and sensibility that is all his own.” – Pigeons & Planes
“Lucki’s music can feel like you’re about to be submerged in a swamp or like you’re about to fall asleep behind the wheel of the Lamborghini from Suicide Squad“ – The FADER
‘On this blessed day, we also get Days B4 III, the new full-length from Lucki, the muttering young cult-rap icon whose self-destructive lyrics have the power to punch you in your soul.” – Stereogum
The Project:
A master of introspective hedonism, LUCKI entices with brutally honest rhymes, organized into mantra-like hooks. Known for his immaculate ear for production, the Chicago native connects with F1LTHY for WAKE UP LUCKI, his most energetic set of songs to date. A member of the WORKING ON DYING collective, known for producing hits for Lil Uzi Vert, Playboi Carti, Juice WRLD, and more, F1LTHY brings a blown-out, synth-heavy, and futuristic aesthetic, mixing booming percussion with carnival-esque synths and cavernous trance soundscapes. Deliberately sliding into the negative space as melodies dance in the background, LUCKI grounds F1LTHY’s flights of fancy, twisting his flows into cadences that toe tag the hyperactive percussion.
Spanning 12 tracks, WAKE UP LUCKI continues the 25-year-old artist’s penchant for existential and starkly honest lyricism, with an added sense of urgency from F1LTHY’s video game-worthy beats. The new tape is home to the recent single, “NEPTUNE V.S INDUSTRY,” a bite-sized banger that examines LUCKI’s role as a “real geek boy in the industry,” and generated over 1.3 million views on its LONEWOLF-directed video. New highlights include “NEEDED,” which combines an instrumental that wouldn’t sound out of place on Dance Dance Revolution with LUCKI’s triplet-flow flexes, “U.G.K.,” which explores the rapper’s position as a underground icon, and “LOVE IS WAR,” a heartbreaking tale of relationship failure and relapse.
WAKE UP LUCKI is the culmination of an action-packed 2021, packed with music and live performances. In the Spring, LUCKI released Almost Woke, a double-single meant to prepare fans for his WAKE UP LUCKI artistic direction, home to “LifestyleBrazy” and “No Joke,” with the former racking up over 1 million streams on Spotify. Prior to the two pack, LUCKI dropped the Lyrical Lemonade-approved banger, “Greed” featuring Lil Yachty. Since these three tracks were gifted to the public, LUCKI has kept himself busy, playing his soulful catalogue at major music festivals across the U.S. including Summer Smash in Chicago and Rolling Loud in New York. The artist took a step forward in his career by embarking on two headlining tours alone in 2021, the “Almost There Tour” and the “Wake Up Lucki Tour,” the latter ending with a hometown show in Chicago on November 27. LUCKI will conclude his live shows with a performance at Rolling Loud California next weekend.
With WAKE UP LUCKI, LUCKI releases one of the most complete artistic statements of his career. Stay tuned for much more in 2022 from the young artist, and plenty more music videos before the year ends.
Cultivating an ever-growing following since he debuted in the rap game in 2013 at 17, LUCKI has earned glowing praise from both critics and industry figures, including shoutouts from Pharrell and Justin Timberlake. He’s collaborated in the past with the likes of A$AP Rocky, Chance The Rapper, Playboi Carti and many others. The rapper formerly known as Lucki Eck$ feeds his fans with a consistent output of boundary-pushing music that plumbs the depths of his soul.
LUCKI had a breakout year in 2019, during which Lucki collaborated with ChaseTheMoney and Earl Sweatshirt, released acclaimed projects Freewave 3 and Days B4 III, and earned praise from Pitchfork, who raved “Lucki’s music works so well in large part due to his ear for production, plodding hi-hats that make it feel like your brain is stuck in quicksand, and his eerie, doomsday melodies.” 2020 was another banner year for the young artist, featuring the release of his 12-track project Almost There, home to the fan favorite single “Faith.”
BMAC (BLACK MUSIC ACTION COALITION) AND ROLLING LOUD PARTNER TO RAISE SOCIAL JUSTICE AWARENESS AT THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL IN CALIFORNIA
The Announcement:
(Los Angeles, CA December 2, 2021) – The Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) announces a new partnership with Rolling Loud, the world’s largest hip-hop festival, for Rolling Loud California, occurring at NOS Events Center in San Bernardino on December 10th-12th. Together, BMAC and Rolling Loud will prioritize activism, community, and awareness of social justice issues with a series of panel discussions, fundraising initiatives, and more, continuing their mission to fight against all forms of discrimination and inspire them to be the change they want to see in the world. The new partnership between BMAC and Rolling Loud arrives as more and more hip-hop artists feel compelled to raise their voices and speak out against inequality and injustice in the political landscape.
“The Artists community has the reach, the influence and the power to force this nation to live up to its promise. Artists have always provided the soundtrack that inspired or provoked change in this world. As others turn down the volume around the issue of racial and social justice, we salute a company who’s willing to keep the noise rolling LOUD!” –Prophet, Co-Founder/Co-Chair of BMAC
Throughout the 3-day festival, Rolling Loud and Black Music Action Coalition will host panel discussions featuring industry thought leaders, activists, and musicians who have used their platforms to advocate for change. Rolling Loud California will display curated art installations with messages promoting social change, will promote fundraising initiatives during the festival, and offer limited edition merch, with profits going to charity. Rolling Loud and BMAC look to foster an environment where fans can express themselves, explore new ideas, and advocate for whatever they believe in.
“Rolling Loud is proud to use our platform to help the Black Music Action Coalition in its mission to keep the fight for racial and social justice alive. Hip-hop is rooted in community, and it’s important for all members of the culture to do their part.” – Tariq Cherif, Co-Founder/CEO of Rolling Loud
“BMAC salutes Rolling Loud for stepping up and their willingness to use the platform to support racial equity and social justice. This is a bold and strong move from one of the leaders in the live space. We are moving past hashtags and into true action.” – Shawn Holiday, Co-Founder/Co-Chair of BMAC’s Executive Leadership Council
About ROLLING LOUD:
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 an 18-month hiatus with the sold-out Rolling Loud Miami 2021 in July, its biggest event yet, bringing in over 75,000 fans per day to Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL. With headliners Travis Scott, Post Malone and A$AP Rocky, Rolling Loud Miami 2021 is 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, headlined by Travis Scott, J. Cole, and 50 Cent, in October and Rolling Loud California, headlined by J. Cole, Kid Cudi, and Future, in December.
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.
About BLACK MUSIC ACTION COALITION:
Tuesday June 2, 2020, the music industry went silent for one day to join the fight for equality as part of #BlackOutTuesday…the day the show paused!. This movement spread beyond the business and inspired tens of millions worldwide to follow suit. Galvanized by this historic moment, close to 200 preeminent artist managers, attorneys, business managers, agents and other industry executives signed up to join forces, instituting and introducing the first-ever BLACK MUSIC ACTION COALITION.
Together, these individuals form one common voice, representing the interests of artists, producers, songwriters, and executives.
This illustrious cadre of industry heavyweights notably represents artists who comprise a majority of the industry’s revenue.
This advocacy organization endeavors to uphold and actualize the mission of Black Lives Matter in the music industry and reach racial justice not just across labels, publishers, agencies, distributors, and DSP’s but throughout society at large. BMAC works together with leaders from various business leaders to hold their companies accountable and implement a system of checks and balances to ensure change takes root. The group fosters and shepherds various educational, mental health, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, policing, social justice, and political causes that directly impact Black communities. In 2021, the BMAC released the first annual Music Industry Action report card that measured and assessed the music industry’s progress toward achieving racial justice and equity. To commemorate the report card, BMAC also held the inaugural Music In Action Awards Gala to honor musicians, activists and industry professionals who have used their platforms to enact change within the music industry and broader society.. The Weeknd, H.E.R., Ethiopia Habtemariam Ben Crump and more were honored for their contributions to change.
Real change begins now with BMAC. BLACK MUSIC MATTERS. BLACK LIVES MATTER.
The Highbridge Rapper Shows Why Talking Smack is an Ill-Advised Gamble in Latest Video from Recent Project, Double Or Nothing
Critical Praise:
“He’s tough, funny, powerful, and completely in control. In addition, every once in a while he’ll throw in a line that will completely change the mood and make things somber (such as his note that at his young age, he’s “been to more funerals than graduations”), before ramping back up into the energetic rhymes.” – Complex
“Don Q Is The New York Rap Hardass We Need…Don Q has one of those deep, grizzled voices that communicate a whole lot just through their grain and texture.” – Stereogum
“After taking some time away from the spotlight, Don Q is back with new music and it feels like he hasn’t missed a beat…The New York native reminds everyone that his pen game can match up with the best of the best in his generation.” –Def Pen
The Video:
Since returning to music after a three-year hiatus, BX’s own Don Q has yet to show any signs of slowing down. In just the past two months, the Highbridge the Label rapper has blessed listeners with the release of his latest solo project, Double Or Nothing, as well as five music videos, including “Slander,” which receives new visuals today. On the track, Don shows why he considers his misguided opposition as little more than a novelty while he focuses on maintaining his New York rap throne.
The Tony Picaso-directed video shows Don Q shooting dice in a high-stakes craps game, stating plainly that the riskiest bet is talking down on the Don in this rap game. Keeping one eye on security camera feeds and another on the money laid across the table, the Bronx baller raps, “I ain’t used to the slander/He try to break in, I go for the tool and the hammer/They ask me, ‘Don, why you move to Atlanta?/You got to come back and influence the scammers.’”
The Bronx-born-and-raised Don Q grew up idolizing NYC’s rawest rhymers like Jadakiss, Cassidy, Fabolous and Jay-Z, and he modeled his style after their hard-nosed, lyrical approaches. After cutting his teeth in the battle rap scene, he made waves in the streets with his mixtapes, eventually landing him a deal with Highbridge The Label in 2016. After teaming with fellow Highbridge rapper, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, on the popular Highbridge: The Takeover mixtape, the pair’s careers took off overnight, as Don Q caught the attention of a national audience with his highly-regarded Funk Flex freestyle. With mixtapes like 2017’s Corner Stories and 2018’s Don Talk, he would continue to cement his status in the New York scene.
In recent years, Don Q blessed the streets with more high-profile collaborations, such as “Flood My Wrist,” featuring Lil Uzi Vert and A Boogie, which has racked up over 42 million Spotify streams to date, and “Legends” featuring Buffalo-native Benny The Butcher. In 2021, Don reminded his fans that his freestyle game is as strong as ever with recent appearances on Funk Flex, as well as Charlie Sloth’sFire In The Booth. With the release of Double Or Nothing, Don Q put the rap game, in NYC and beyond, on notice that he’s leveled up in major fashion. Where he takes it from here, however, is up to the Don.
Double Or Nothing tracklist:
1. True King
2. Same Thing
3. Say That
4. Light Today
5. Come Find Us ft. B-Lovee
6. Slander
7. Some N****
8. Outta Here
9. Product
10. Artificial
The TikTok Community Puts a Spin on Christmas Classics, Vibes to an Alphabetical Breakup Anthem, and Excitedly Share Their Thanksgiving Plates During a Busy Week on the Platform
The News:
Each week, the TikTok Treats newsletter gives a snapshot of the state of music on TikTok, touching on trending hits, emerging artists, superstar moves, ascendant memes, and much more. This week’s TikTok trends reflect the ups and downs of Thanksgiving week, with some creators living their truth despite their family’s objections, others anticipating the arrival of Christmas, and some just salivating over the holiday’s feast. Take a look at some of the most notable trends this week, featuring two new songs reaching the charts, propelled by TikTok success:
The weather outside is getting frightful, and on TikTok, like in department stores across the nation, that only means one thing: it’s time for Christmas music. Several old chestnuts are trending throughout TikTok as the community gets into the holiday spirit. Leading the way is “Let It Snow! Let It Snow!,” the carefree classic popularized by Frank Sinatra himself. Some users delight in the song’s wintery vibes, but many more come through with a sarcastic spin on Sinatra’s drawn out delivery of “mmm delightful,” commenting on backhanded compliments, weird comments from customers, or unexpectedly low test scores. The other Christmas classic experiencing a resurgence is Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride,” with a trend that takes advantage not of its famous chorus and verse but its lesser-known instrumental passage. Enterprising creators create dance routines soundtracked by the song’s clopping hooves and whip cracks, while one creative user made a video about her unique take on an elf on the shelf.
TikTok consistently provides a space for creators to fully and authentically embrace, and take pride in, their identities. This week, creators throughout TikTok are reclaiming their power from those that didn’t understand or support them, proudly displaying their confidence in themselves and affirming their identity for the world to see. With over 46.6K creations, rock band CRAWLERS’ song “Come Over (Again)” is leading the way for this self-love trend. Creators are taking to the powerful lyric “Take her name out of your mouth” as they reflect on their journey to gaining the self-confidence and freedom to express their true selves. The song is inspiring creations from those proudly declaring their trans identity with their siblings and those advocating for body positivity. CRAWLERS’ lead singer Holly has even taken to the sound on the band’s page to reveal the song’s origin and emphatically thank fans on TikTok for their immense support.
“Do It To It” by ACRAZE, a house remix of former girl group Cherish’s 2007 “Do It To It,” was one of the most surprising EDM hits of 2021, with DJ Snake going as far as to call it “the song of the summer.” The song gained traction on TikTok earlier this year, but ever since Zedd released a new remix that incorporates the theme music from Squid Game, the song has exploded into the stratosphere. With over 1.3 million video creations, the song is the basis of a dance challenge that tests the knees and takes hours to master, but it’s crossed over into the wider world of TikTok viral videos, soundtracking memes about spilling beans, the lowering of a new roommate’s expectations, and much more.
The TikTok community was more than ready to express their excitement for the Thanksgiving holiday. After a successful food-related run on the app last year DJ Chose’s “#UNameItChallenge” (42.7K+ creations) made a comeback, establishing itself as the official TikTok Thanksgiving anthem. DJ Chose’s catchy, booming production paired with gospel legend Shirley Caesar’s recitation of some of the most popular Thanksgiving foods has made for a plethora of mouth-watering Thanksgiving-themed creations. DJ Chose’s track can be heard soundtracking delicious leftover recipes, public displays of eccentric dancing, and creative dinners for the cutest shelter pups.
The Charlotte Native Strives to Sharpen His Pen and Perfect His “Trap Punk” Style on Tireless New Project
Critical Praise:
“Be prepared to see a whole lot more of Jaah in the coming months as he continues his ascension.” – ELEVATOR
“I think there’s no question that he’s going to be the next big thing out of North Carolina sooner rather than later.” – Lyrical Lemonade
The Project:
With his meticulous mania and flair for ferocity, Charlotte’s Jaah SLT is poised to be the next North Carolina native to take the rap game by storm. After a year of growth and increased focus on his craft, Jaah returns in full-force to share One Year Later, his new project. Jumping from brutal bangers to melodic vibe-setters and everything in between over 12 tracks, Jaah’s attentive versatility and quality-over-quantity approach to music is evident throughout.
The project boasts a selective feature list highlighting Jaah’s support from his SLT family, with verses from his crewmates Loweye SLT and SleepWalkin SLT as well as an appearance from “Break S***” hitmaker, Jasiah. On Jaah’s deftest, most refined project to date, he continues to let his unpredictable, athletic flows shine while keeping listeners on their toes with his brutally candid, confident lyricism. Jaah’s originality and irreplicable swagger shine through on every second of the project, with ear-catching bars like, “I’m a JUCO dropout, turned to a standout/Racks in the safe, I ain’t never had a handout,” on standout track, “Hot Lil N****.” One Year Later is available everywhere via Alamo Records.
One Year Later arrives following the release of recent singles, “I Love It” ft. Jasiah, “For The Week,” “Rent Free,” “Toxic” and “Feeling Hot,” all of which appear on the project. The latest efforts from Jaah SLT follow in the wake of “In My Bag (Remix),” featuring Dallas diva Erica Banks. The original “In My Bag” gained particular traction in Texas, the home of chopped-and-screwed music, thanks to a TikTok dance trend set to a slowed version of the song, inspiring over 150k video creations. Before releasing the Erica Banks-featuring remix, Jaah shared a Houston-style remix of the song produced by club god BeatKing. With over 2.3 million streams on Spotify, “In My Bag” was the second TikTok hit for the North Carolina native, following 2019’s “Tuff” which hit 32 million streams on Spotify after generating over 250k video creations on the video platform.
With One Year Later, Jaah SLT looks to continue his upward trajectory and stake his claim as Charlotte’s next star. Stay tuned for more.
With uniquely animated vocalizations over trap-punk beats, rapper Jaah SLT—a nickname spawned from a mashup of Charlotte’s airport code, CLT, and a childhood fight club named SALT—first caught viral attention with his 2019 single, “Tuff.” With the song soundtracking playful Tik Tok videos and charting high on Spotify Viral Charts, Shazam Top 200 and Rolling Stone Charts, the North Carolina native is quietly emerging from the internet underground to solid hip-hop spotlight.
Miami Native Pouya Fights His Internal Demons in the Latest Video From His Blood Was Never Thick As Water Project
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 Video:
A staple in the packed South Florida rap scene for nearly a decade, Pouya’s rise and staying power is a testament to staying true to himself. Reflecting on his come up, Pouya shares “One Deep in the Fleetwood,” a new music video for a soulful and saxophone-drenched banger. Addressing those who think the Miami native betrayed his core values, Pouya raps “I see why they think I sold my soul / Really don’t know how deep this goes”–the haters don’t see the whole picture. Directed by MidVessel, the video echoes the song’s paranoid lyrics, as Pouya is trapped in a surveilled bedroom that’s impossible to escape, regardless of how many different ways he tries to break free. “One Deep in the Fleetwood” is a highlight track off of Blood Was Never Thick As Water, Pouya’s recent album, full of introspective anthems and mosh pit-ready bangers.
The new project is a versatile effort, allowing Pouya to flex his range and introduce himself to new fans. The album’s pre-release singles illustrate how the Miami artist has grown–on one hand, Pouya fights his demons while soul searching on the jazz-infused “The First Step To Becoming God Is A Bottle To The Face,” while on the other, he recruits fellow Florida native Denzel Curry for the bass heavy “Wig Split” to help him let the people know that he can’t be messed with. The album was executive-produced by Pouya’s longtime collaborator and friend, Mikey The Magician, and features additional production from Rocci and IvanRamirez, amongst others. Characterized by Pouya’s distinctive flow and versatile beats, Blood Was Never Thick As Water is available everywhere now.
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 three studio albums–Underground Underdog, FIVE FIVE and The South’s Got Something to Say–along with multiple mixtapes with fellow BuffetBoys rappers like FatNick and BoobieLootaveli. Earlier this year, Pouya made a triumphant return to RollingLoud, a festival at which he’s been a fixture since the very first event in 2015, firing up crowds with his vast catalog of anthems.
With Blood Was Never Thick As Water, Pouya bares his soul, fearlessly plumbing the recesses of his mind and daring fans and newcomers alike to accept him as he is. Making it clear that he sees himself as his only real competition, the 26 year old rapper is determined to show the world that he should no longer be seen as an underdog.
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 3.5 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 and The South’s Got Something to Say, 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 massive album with some big features from the Buffet Boys rapper – Pouya is a name you’ll be remembering.
The Two Flint Area Characters Urge Fans and DJs to Play Their Music Loud in Their High-Energy New Video
Critical Praise:
“”There is Bruce Wayne and Batman. Clark Kent and Superman. And now, YN Jay and the Coochie Man” – Pitchfork
“Flint, Michigan wouldn’t be one of the hottest scenes in rap without ‘Coochie,’ ‘Coochie World,’ ‘Coochie Scout,’ a mixtape titled Coochie Land, and Coochie Man, the floor-humping alter ego of YN Jay.” – Pitchfork
“‘Coochie’ is one of the funniest hip-hop videos of the last five years” – XXL
“The Flint native is one of the more eccentric rappers in Michigan, rapping about coochie, using very distinct ‘hold onnnnnnnnnnnnn’ ad-ibs, and starting off songs by asking the producer: ‘Why you always do that mannnnnnnn?’ I’m honestly not sure what these producers are doing while YN Jay is recording in the booth, but whatever it is, it’s working. The music is always wildly entertaining.” – Complex
“He raps in different voices, draws out words like they’re self-contained riddles. You never know if he’s entirely serious, but that’s the point.” – SPIN
The Video:
Ever since connecting for their cult hit “Coochie” in 2019 (32 million video views), true blue Michigan men YN Jay and Louie Ray have been one of rap’s funniest and freshest dynamic duos. Uniting once again to rouse those who try to tune them out, Jay and Louie share “Turn Me Up,” a hyperactive new banger. Produced by Flint-area sound architect YungWayne616, “Turn Me Up” gets its life from bouncing blasts of thudding bass and racing piano arpeggios, adding a sense of urgency to the duo’s tag team verses. Jay delivers animated ad-libs and rhythmic grunts as he hurls taunts towards his opposition and Louie grounds the proceedings with a more conventional flow, but equally colorful bars: “Go and do my dirty work for me, lil stuntman/My n****s ain’t that dirty, that’s your mans,” spits Louie. The new video highlights the brotherly dynamic between the two emcees, as both rappers take to the studio while decked out in blue streetwear.
The prolific YN Jay had a massive 2021, releasing multiple projects, starting several TikTok trends, and dropping a metric ton of music videos. “Turn Me Up” is the latest video to emerge in the wake of Coochie Chronicles, YN Jay’s acclaimed recent project. Home to recent singles like “Slow Motion” and the earlier “Triple S Remix” ft. Coi Leray, Coochie Chronicles ushers listeners into Jay’s sex-crazed mind, the Beecher, MI native wielding a slip-sliding, start-stopping flow as he unleashes a torrent of punchlines and outrageous boasts. Covered by Pitchfork, The FADER, and more, the project is also home to “Oxyyyyy,” a paean to Jay’s favorite narcotic, the ebullient opening track “Summer Time,” and his signature song “Coochie,” a collaboration with Jay’s close friend Louie Ray that has more than 30 million YouTube views. More recently, YN Jay shared the video for “Rock The Boat,” which is a vivid throwback to the days of disco, complete with dancers in dazzling sequins and roller skates. Featuring an additional appearance from Flint heavy-hitter Rio Da Yung OG, Coochie Chronicles is available everywhere via Alamo Records.
The recent release of Coochie Chronicles continues Jay’s steady rise to rap game notoriety. Jay is a nearly mythic figure on TikTok, generating millions of video creations on viral hits like “Kakashi,” “Coochie Land,” and “Coochie Scout,” and inspiring TikTok comedian @Nuhchez to splice YN Jay’s voice into Coolio’s “Gangsta’s Paradise” and create one of the platform’s most successful running jokes. YN Jay’s inimitable style earned him co-signs from Drake and Lil Uzi Vert, and last month, he made his festival debut when he performed at Rolling Loud Miami. Stay tuned for much more from the “Coochie Man” in 2022, including a collaborative project with Louie Ray and plenty of music to come.
Taking over the internet with his distinctive style and outrageous lyrics, YN Jay is well on his way toward mainstream stardom. Hold onnnnnn…YN Jay is coming for the throne.
“It’s scary how easy it is for me to make music,” admits 21-year-old rapper YN Jay. This is true of his 2020 hit “Coochie” and the follow-up album Coochie Land. “It was made in three minutes, easily, and the video did 30 million views. I’ve been writing songs to go a certain way my whole life, but it never worked. Now, I’m not overthinking it, and it’s making me a star.” After over a decade at the mic, the Beecher, Michigan native has given rap fans an alternative to music about violence and drugs.
Amid his rise, Jay got cosigns from Drake and Lil Uzi Vert. While Drizzy and Jay are exploring music, he recorded extensively with Uzi. The same night the two discussed collaborating, Jay stopped everything to drive to Philly. “I pulled up; we did damn near eight songs.” One track, the “coochie”-inspired “HOLD ONNNNN,” promises to release during an exciting 2021. Fresh off of Ninja Warrior—an album featuring Lil Yachty and Sada Baby that he conceptualized and recorded in a single day, YN Jay recently signed a deal with Alamo Records and is focused on showcasing his versatility and staying power. “I’m working on a few albums and letting the world know how big this is. Anybody can be a rapper; I’m trying to catch the culture and update the game.”
The Charlotte Native Spits Fire and Totes Flamethrowers Alongside Jasiah in Hard-Hitting Video Single from his One Year Later Project, out December 1st via Alamo Records
Critical Praise:
“Be prepared to see a whole lot more of Jaah in the coming months as he continues his ascension.” – ELEVATOR
“I think there’s no question that he’s going to be the next big thing out of North Carolina sooner rather than later.” – Lyrical Lemonade
The Video:
Charlotte’s Jaah SLT haunts the nightmares of the opposition like Freddy Krueger, and like Freddy, he’s able to compose himself and deliver an iconic, comedic one-liner right before he gets you. His music embodies that unpredictable intensity that makes it feel like he could snap at any second. That energy is omnipresent on Jaah’s latest video single, “I Love It,” featuring a high-octane assist from Ohio rapper Jasiah, whose unchained hostility makes him a perfect counterpart—the Jason to Jaah’s Freddy.
The video finds Jaah and Jasiah marauding around a red-lit warehouse, toting flamethrowers and raging out the window of a BMW as the visuals grow more and more distorted to match the track’s wicked, twisted atmosphere. Bouncing from shot to shot with frantic frequency, the video presents a sense of urgency which complements and highlights the eccentricity of Jaah’s flows and intonation. Like a ticking time bomb that could blow at any minute, Jaah SLT brings life to the track, as he transitions from the rabid repetition of the line, “I love it, I’m with it,” with increasing ferocity on the hook to kicking off the following verse, rapping, “I’m great, I’m straight, I’m doing good,” with the calm composure of someone who just woke up from a nap, only seconds later.
“I Love It” arrives in the wake of recent singles, “For The Week,” “Rent Free,” “Toxic” and “Feeling Hot,” all of which appear on his upcoming project, One Year Later, due for a December 1st release via Alamo Records. Jaah’s new project will follow in the wake of “In My Bag (Remix),” featuring Dallas diva Erica Banks. The original “In My Bag” gained particular traction in Texas, the home of chopped-and-screwed music, thanks to a TikTok dance trend set to a slowed version of the song which inspired over 157k video creations. Before releasing the Erica Banks-featuring remix, Jaah shared a Houston-style remix of the song produced by club god BeatKing. With over 1.5 million streams on Spotify, “In My Bag” was the second TikTok hit for the North Carolina native, following 2019’s “Tuff” which hit 27 million streams after generating over 250k video creations on the video platform.
With One Year Later coming later this week, Jaah SLT continues to make waves with his fiery, unapologetic personality while taking his career to the next level in the rap game. Don’t sleep, or Jaah might go Freddy Krueger on your ass.
With uniquely animated vocalizations over trap-punk beats, rapper Jaah SLT—a nickname spawned from a mashup of Charlotte’s airport code, CLT, and a childhood fight club named SALT—first caught viral attention with his 2019 single, “Tuff.” With the song soundtracking playful Tik Tok videos and charting high on Spotify Viral Charts, Shazam Top 200 and Rolling Stone Charts, the North Carolina native is quietly emerging from the internet underground to solid hip-hop spotlight.
The Prolific Michigan Native Connects with his TeamSESH Signee Lyson to Craft a Percolating and Diverse Collection of Songs
Critical Praise:
“The Michigan-born rapper was one of the earliest and most influential artists to rise through the SoundCloud ranks in the early 2010s thanks to a truly unique aesthetic, an aura of mystery and a sound that would go on to be mimicked by his genre for years to come.” – HYPEBEAST
‘Already one of the most influential artists in rap and the SoundCloud underground, Bones shows no signs of slowing down.” – HYPEBEAST
“O’Connor’s short tracks, creepy videos, and one-word tweets rack up millions of social media interactions from a cult following that helped him sell out shows in 25 cities on a recent tour. The hip-hop elite is taking notice.” – The FADER
“Elmo Kennedy O’Connor was in pre-school when he became obsessed with the Southern artists of No Limit and Cash Money. Later in life, he would adopt the rap moniker Bones and amass a significant cult following. His gothic lyrical style, allergy to songs longer than two and a half minutes, and lo-fi visual aesthetic have convinced a quarter million people to subscribe to the SoundCloud page of his rap collective, TeamSESH.” – HotNewHipHop
The Album:
His mind bursting with more ideas than he can count, underground hero BONES never stops working–he accomplishes in one year what many artists achieve in their entire careers. Coming through with his fifth full-length album of 2021, BONES shares Scraps, a 17-track new collection of songs. Created in collaboration with Lyson, a producer signed to BONES’s TeamSESH label who connected with the artist in 2020 for the fan-beloved Remains project, Scraps finds the Michigan native in his rap bag, unleashing triplet rhymes with ease before slipping into softly-sung choruses that hammer his points home. Lyson’s production is intricate and lush–he’s a master of arpeggios, twirling delicate melodies whether he’s using a mournful piano, a vibrant guitar, or a vintage synthesizer.
On songs like “MaryTylerMoore,” BONES taps into the nostalgic vibe, channeling emo vocalists for a hopeful and heartfelt paean: “We’re gonna make it after all.” That tender ballad segues seamlessly into the pitch black “DeadEnd,” which harkens back to BONES’ love for Memphis trap. Though stylistic leaps like those might cause whiplash in less-skilled hands, BONES and Lyson’s high level of craftmanship and sparkling chemistry makes each genre exercise feel natural. The immediate follow-up to ForbiddenImage, a collaborative album with TeamSESH’s cat soup, Scraps is available everywhere via TeamSESH/EMPIRE.
Scraps continues a remarkably busy year for BONES, marked by five full-lengths and more possibly on the way. October’s ForbiddenImage immediately followed July’s InLovingMemory, a dark and personal album that featured the recent single “WhiteBoyRick.” In March, BONES released PushingUpDaisies, a full-length collaborative album produced by TeamSESH producer Deergod. Featuring the single “PopRocks,” which earned praise from Stereogum, the album thrives on the impeccable chemistry between producer and rapper. Earlier this year, BONES shared hisBURDEN album and released albums recorded under the moniker surrenderdorothy onto DSPs for the first time ever.
Despite its title, Scraps is no throwaway–each song builds a carefully considered sonic world that listeners can dive into for minutes at a time. Don’t be surprised if BONES returns with yet another album in the coming weeks.
BONES has proven to be one of the most enduring, influential, and creative hip-hop artists to emerge in the early 2010s. The TeamSESH founder has recorded dozens of albums, racking up hundreds of millions of streams and feeding a fanbase that eagerly awaits his every move. Despite remaining fiercely independent and true to his underground roots, his music has permeated the mainstream–in 2015, A$AP Rocky sampled BONES’ song “Dirt” for “Canal St.” (124 million streams), and in recent years, BONES has performed in prime slots at festivals such as Rolling Loud as a member of Seshollowaterboyz (along with Xavier Wülf, Chris Travis, and Eddy Baker).
