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After Selling Over 3,000 Copies of His Debut, Darren Ogden Celebrates His Birthday with the Release of His Second Book in Six Months
NEW ORLEANS, LA — June 24, 2026 — Entrepreneur, media executive, and author Darren Ogden Sr. is celebrating more than another year of life—he's celebrating another major milestone in his entrepreneurial journey. On his birthday, June 24, 2026, the Nolazine CEO officially released his second book, 40 Ways To Build Leverage, Business Relationships & Gain Income, just six months after launching his debut bestseller, Speak Like a Media Mogul. Ogden entered 2026 with a clear missi
INTERVIEWS
The Notorious B.I.G. Was Supposed to Be in London — Not Los Angeles — When He Was Killed
#NOLAZINE - The tragic death of The Notorious B.I.G. on March 9, 1997, remains one of the most heartbreaking and mysterious moments in hip-hop history. But one detail that often gets overlooked is this: Biggie wasn’t even supposed to be in Los Angeles when he was killed. Originally, Biggie had plans to travel to London shortly after promoting his highly anticipated album Life After Death. The UK had become a strong market for his music, and overseas promotion was part of the
4 days ago
Why Nelly’s Band-Aid Became One of Hip-Hop’s Most Iconic Symbols
#NOLAZINE - At the height of his rise in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Nelly stood out instantly—not just for his smooth Midwest flow or crossover appeal, but for the small white Band-Aid he wore on his cheek. At first glance, it looked like a fashion statement. In reality, it carried a much deeper meaning rooted in loyalty, pain, and friendship. Before the fame and chart-topping hits, Nelly wore the Band-Aid to cover an actual injury on his cheek. It wasn’t meant to become
4 days ago
Otis Redding Died In A Plane Crash After Being Warned Not To Fly Due To Poor Weather Conditions
#NOLAZINE - Otis Redding is remembered as one of the greatest voices in soul music history, a once-in-a-generation talent whose passion and emotion reshaped R&B forever. But behind the timeless records and unforgettable performances is a tragic ending that shocked the music world and cut his life short far too soon. In December 1967, Otis Redding was riding the momentum of a career that was reaching new heights. Just days after recording what would become his signature song,
4 days ago
Meet Korey With A K: One Of The Most Consistent and Funniest Comedians on Social Media
#NOLAZINE - New Orleans has always been a city filled with personality, creativity, and natural humor. One comedian who continues to represent that spirit is Korey With A K, a New Orleans native who has become one of the most consistent and entertaining creators on social media. For years, Korey has dedicated himself to releasing comedy skits on a regular basis. While many creators struggle to remain consistent, Korey continues to show up, develop new ideas, and give his supp
4 days ago
The 26-Year-Old Who Brought The Saints And Almost Ruined the League: John Mecom Jr
#NOLAZINE - In 1966, the NFL shocked the sports world when it handed the keys to its newest franchise, the New Orleans Saints, to a 26-year-old oil heir named John Mecom Jr. At the time, he became the youngest owner in league history. What followed was a chaotic experiment that nearly destabilized the league—and ultimately changed how the NFL selects its owners forever. A Bid Born from Oil Money and Politics Mecom wasn’t a self-made businessman. His fortune came from his fami
6 days ago
How Caryn Johnson Changed Her Name to Whoopi Goldberg and Became a Famous Actress
#NOLAZINE - Before the world knew her as Whoopi Goldberg, she was Caryn Elaine Johnson, a young woman from New York City with big dreams and an even bigger personality. Over the decades, she transformed not only her name but also her career, becoming one of the most recognizable and respected entertainers in Hollywood. Caryn Johnson adopted the stage name “Whoopi” from the novelty whoopee cushion, a nod to her naturally comedic and unfiltered personality. The surname “Goldber
6 days ago
Joe Jackson Cried When His Sons Fired Him As Their Manager in 1983. Michael Was The First To Fire His Father In 1979
#NOLAZINE - The Jackson family’s story is one of incredible success, but behind the fame and fortune were also struggles, conflicts, and painful decisions. One of the most emotional chapters came in 1983, when Joe Jackson—the father who had managed his children’s careers since the beginning—was officially fired as their manager. Michael Jackson, the most successful of Joe’s children, was also the first to part ways with his father’s management. When Michael turned 21 in 1979,
6 days ago
Michael Jackson Dedicated "Remember The Time" to Diana Ross: A Hidden Love Story
#NOLAZINE - Michael Jackson’s 1992 hit “Remember The Time” stands as one of his most iconic songs — a smooth blend of R&B grooves, cinematic visuals, and nostalgic storytelling. But behind the infectious melody and legendary music video lies a lesser-known truth: the song was a tribute to someone very special in his life — Diana Ross. According to Michael’s older brother, Jermaine Jackson, the King of Pop penned “Remember The Time” with Diana Ross in mind. In his memoir, Jerm
6 days ago
Oliver "Power" Grant: The Visionary Behind Wu-Tang Clan & Wu-Wear's Empire
#NOLAZINE - Oliver “Power” Grant is much more than a behind-the-scenes figure—he's a visionary who helped architect the Wu-Tang Clan’s rise from Staten Island’s Park Hill projects to a global hip-hop and fashion phenomenon. As an entrepreneur, executive producer, and streetwear pioneer, Grant has built an enduring legacy at the intersection of music, culture, and business. Growing up in Staten Island, Grant was a childhood friend of Divine—older brother of Wu-Tang’s de facto
6 days ago
Honoring the Legacy of New Orleans’ King of Bounce Music: Who Was 5th Ward Weebie?
#NOLAZINE - Born on February 19, 1978, in the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana, 5th Ward Weebie—real name Jerome Cosey—was more than a bounce music pioneer; he was a cultural icon whose infectious energy, creative genius, and relentless drive shaped the sound and spirit of an entire genre. Known affectionately as the “King of Bounce,” Weebie’s legacy still echoes through speakers and second lines across the Crescent City. Weebie’s path to greatness was paved with an unshakeabl
6 days ago
Regina Belle Recorded "Baby Come to Me" in Just Two Takes — A Testament to True Vocal Mastery
#NOLAZINE - In an era where studio perfection often takes days or even weeks to achieve, legendary R&B singer Regina Belle delivered vocal excellence with remarkable ease. Her beloved hit "Baby Come to Me" was recorded in just two takes, showcasing her raw talent and seasoned musicianship. Released in 1989, "Baby Come to Me" quickly became one of Belle’s signature songs, a smooth and sultry ballad that showcased her powerful yet delicate vocal tone. The track climbed the char
6 days ago
Pimp Daddy: A Short-Lived Career with an Enduring Impact on New Orleans Hip-Hop And Cash Money
#NOLAZINE - The vibrant streets of New Orleans have long been fertile ground for hip-hop innovation, cultivating legends who shaped not just the local scene but influenced the genre on a national scale. Among these influential pioneers was Pimp Daddy—a charismatic rapper whose life was tragically cut short, yet whose contributions remain deeply embedded in the DNA of New Orleans hip-hop. Born and raised in New Orleans, Pimp Daddy emerged at a time when the city’s unique bounc
6 days ago
Who Is Mecca? The Voice Behind Jay-Z’s Classic Song "Feelin’ It" From His Album "Reasonable Doubt"
#NOLAZINE - When hip-hop fans talk about Jay-Z’s iconic debut album, Reasonable Doubt, one of the standout tracks that often comes up is the smooth and soulful “Feelin’ It.” While Hov’s lyrical brilliance is front and center, the song wouldn’t be the same without the ethereal vocals floating through the chorus — and that voice belongs to none other than Angela “Mecca” Redmon. Though her name might not be widely known to the public, her voice is unforgettable. At just 17 years
6 days ago
Remembering Young Capone, AKA Dopeboy Ra: The Lasting Legacy of Atlanta’s Slum Lord
#NOLAZINE - In the heart of Atlanta’s influential music scene, Young Capone—later known as Dopeboy Ra—stood out through his raw talent, street knowledge and unwavering dedication to his craft. Coming from East Atlanta, Ra developed an authentic voice that connected with listeners who understood the realities behind his music. Raised between Atlanta’s Zone 3 and Zone 6, Ra faced circumstances that required him to mature quickly. Those early experiences gave him the resilience,
6 days ago
Meet Rennix: A Rising Name in the New Orleans Music Scene
#NOLAZINE - New Orleans has always been home to artists who bring originality, confidence, and authentic storytelling to hip-hop. One rising talent who deserves more attention is Rennix, an artist representing the Westside of New Orleans—an area traditionally known as the West Bank. Although Rennix comes straight from the Westside, his name and presence extend throughout the entire city. By moving through different neighborhoods, connecting with people, and consistently repre
6 days ago
Grant Hill & Tamia Started Dating After Being Introduced By Anita Baker
#NOLAZINE - In a world where celebrity relationships often make headlines for their drama and short lifespans, the enduring love story of Grant Hill and Tamia is a refreshing reminder that true love still exists — even in the spotlight. Their journey began with a soulful introduction by none other than legendary singer Anita Baker, who saw something special in both of them and decided to play matchmaker. The pairing turned out to be serendipitous. Grant Hill, a rising NBA sta
6 days ago
Eddie Murphy Handpicked Lisa Lisa To Play In "Coming To America" But Her Husband Rejected
#NOLAZINE - Eddie Murphy’s iconic 1988 comedy Coming to America is remembered for its legendary cast, timeless humor, and unforgettable romance between Prince Akeem and Lisa McDowell. But what many fans don’t know is that the role of Lisa was originally intended for a different leading lady: Lisa Lisa, the chart-topping music sensation from Lisa Lisa and Cult Jam. At the height of her fame in the late 1980s, Lisa Lisa—known for hits like “I Wonder If I Take You Home” and “Hea
6 days ago
MC T Tucker and DJ Irv: Pioneering New Orleans Bounce and Shaping a Musical Legacy Forever
#NOLAZINE - Among the most influential figures to emerge from this vibrant musical landscape are MC T Tucker and DJ Irv, the architects behind a genre that would come to define an era: New Orleans bounce music. In 1990, MC T Tucker and DJ Irv unleashed a sound that would electrify dance floors and block parties across the Crescent City. With high-energy beats, rapid-fire call-and-response hooks, and a distinctive blend of hip-hop and dancehall flavors, bounce music was born.
6 days ago
Who Was Supreme AKA Kenneth McGriff? The Man, The Myth, The Queens Legend
#NOLAZINE - Kenneth “Supreme” McGriff is a name that echoes through the streets of South Jamaica, Queens — a figure etched into the annals of New York City’s underworld. Born on September 19, 1960, McGriff rose from the Baisley Park Houses to become one of the most notorious drug lords of the 1980s. His story, from kingpin to convicted felon, is one of power, influence, ambition, and ultimately, downfall. In 1981, McGriff founded The Supreme Team, a drug trafficking organizat
6 days ago
Tre-8: Remembering the New Orleans Rap Pioneer and True Knight of the Westbank
#NOLAZINE - In the rich history of New Orleans hip-hop, few artists represented the spirit, resilience and authenticity of the city quite like Tre-8. Born Walter McCallon, the talented rapper rose from the Christopher Homes development in Algiers and earned recognition as one of the Westbank’s most respected voices. Tre-8’s journey was more than a pursuit of fame. It was the story of a young artist who used music to document his surroundings, express his reality and contribut
6 days ago
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