#NOLAZINE - In 2009, it was nearly impossible to turn on a hip-hop radio station without hearing Dorrough’s unforgettable opening line: “Yeah, buddy, rollin’ like a big shot.” The Dallas, Texas, rapper raced into the national spotlight with “Ice Cream Paint Job,” an anthem celebrating customized cars, colorful paint and Southern automobile culture. The song became one of the biggest rap records of the year and introduced mainstream audiences to an artist who had already built

#NOLAZINE - New Orleans hip-hop has produced many unforgettable voices, but few are as instantly recognizable as Fiend. With his raspy delivery, emotional intensity and unmistakable “Whomp Whomp” ad-lib, Fiend became one of the most distinctive artists associated with No Limit Records during the label’s historic late-1990s run. However, his journey stretches far beyond his time as a No Limit Soldier. From recording with Big Boy Records to working with Master P, Ruff Ryders, T

#NOLAZINE - Michel'le Toussaint, known mononymously as Michel'le, is a seminal figure in the R&B and hip-hop world. Her journey, marked by incredible musical talent and personal adversity, is a testament to her resilience and determination. Michel'le's career began at the tender age of 16 when she met Dr. Dre, whose real name is Andre Romelle Young. She was called in to record vocals for the World Class Wreckin' Cru's track "Turn Off the Lights" in 1987, which later peaked at

#NOLAZINE - Richard Pryor did more than make people laugh. He transformed stand-up comedy into a powerful form of storytelling that could expose pain, challenge racism and find humor inside the most difficult parts of life. With his animated delivery, unforgettable characters and fearless honesty, Pryor became one of the most influential comedians in American history. His work opened doors for generations of performers who followed him, especially Black comedians seeking the

#NOLAZINE - When audiences watched Carl Weathers move around the ring as Apollo Creed in the original Rocky, he appeared to be a natural-born fighter. His footwork, confidence, speed and powerful physique made him look like a legitimate heavyweight boxing champion. However, Weathers later revealed something surprising: before being selected to play Apollo Creed, he had never actually boxed. In a 1979 interview, Weathers admitted that he exaggerated his boxing experience while

#NOLAZINE - Amy Winehouse possessed the kind of voice that could stop listeners in their tracks. Raw, smoky and filled with emotion, it sounded as though it belonged to another era—yet her music was unmistakably her own. Born Amy Jade Winehouse in London on September 14, 1983, the British singer-songwriter grew up surrounded by music. Jazz became one of her earliest influences, laying the foundation for the soulful style that would eventually make her an international star. T

#NOLAZINE - The 1990s produced an unforgettable generation of male R&B groups. Boyz II Men, Jodeci, Dru Hill, 112, Blackstreet and Jagged Edge all helped define the era, but another talented group briefly appeared with the vocals and potential to become just as successful. That group was Az Yet. The Philadelphia-based singers gained national attention with their 1996 debut single, “Last Night.” Powered by smooth harmonies, passionate lead vocals and production from Babyface a

#NOLAZINE - It is difficult to imagine anyone other than Halle Berry portraying Storm in the original X-Men movie franchise, but the Oscar-winning actress was not the only superstar considered for the role. Music icon Janet Jackson revealed that she was asked to play the powerful weather-controlling mutant in the 2000 film. However, Jackson was forced to turn down the opportunity because of her touring commitments. The role ultimately went to Halle Berry, who helped introduce

#NOLAZINE - Muhammad Ali was more than a legendary boxer. He was a cultural icon, humanitarian, activist and fearless voice who transformed the meaning of being a professional athlete. Known around the world as “The Greatest,” Ali captured the attention of millions with his speed, confidence, charisma and ability to predict his victories. Outside the boxing ring, he demonstrated an equally powerful willingness to defend his religious beliefs and speak out against racial injus

#NOLAZINE - Before Lil Wayne and B.G. became two of the biggest names connected to the legendary Hot Boys, the young New Orleans rappers formed a duo of their own called the B.G.’z, short for Baby Gangstaz. The group represented one of the earliest chapters in the history of Cash Money Records. Long before the label secured major distribution, produced platinum-selling albums and became an international powerhouse, Lil Wayne and B.G. were two young artists developing their so