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Sam Cooke: The First Black Artist to Own a Record Label & The Mysterious Circumstances of His Death Sam Cooke was more than just a legendary singer—he was a trailblazer in the music industry. As the first Black artist to own a record label  and publishing company , Cooke shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations of artists to gain control over their own music. However, his groundbreaking success also made him a target  in an industry that was not ready to see Black artists wield such power. Shortly before his untimely death, Cooke discovered that his manager, Allen Klein , had secretly transferred ownership  of his record label, Tracey Limited , into his own name. With no legal will in place, Klein took full control  of Cooke’s music catalog, ultimately profiting from his work while his family received little in return. Tragically, Sam Cooke was killed in December 1964 , under circumstances that remain controversial to this day. His death left many questions unanswered, fueling speculation that his rising influence—and his fight for ownership in the industry—may have played a role in his demise. Despite the injustice, Sam Cooke’s legacy lives on.  His music and contributions to the business side of the industry continue to inspire artists who seek ownership and control over their own artistry.

Hip-Hop’s newest sensation, Pdiorr , is making a name for himself with his latest release, “No Soy Igual.”  With a unique flow, undeniable charisma, and raw storytelling, Pdiorr is carving out his own lane in the highly competitive rap scene. The visuals for “No Soy Igual”  bring his energy and authenticity to life, further cementing his growing presence in the industry. As his fanbase continues to expand, Pdiorr proves he’s not just another artist— he’s a force to be reckoned with. With momentum building and industry insiders taking notice, Pdiorr is on track to becoming one of Hip-Hop’s most promising rising stars. Follow him on Instagram @officialpdiorr  and check out “No Soy Igual” on all streaming platforms.

Frankie Lymon, the boy wonder  who once captivated audiences with his youthful voice and infectious energy, met a heartbreaking fate at just 25 years old . The former frontman of Frankie Lymon & The Teenagers , best known for the hit “Why Do Fools Fall in Love,”  tragically died of a heroin overdose  in 1968, marking a somber end to what could have been an enduring legacy. From Stardom to Struggles Lymon’s career took off in the mid-1950s when he and The Teenagers  stormed the music charts, changing the landscape of doo-wop and R&B . However, in 1957 , at just 15 years old , he left the group to pursue a solo career —a decision that would lead to declining fame and personal struggles . As he aged, the music industry moved on from his youthful image , and his career faltered. Meanwhile, his heroin habit , which began when he was introduced to the drug by a woman twice his age, took a stronger hold. Legal Troubles and Military Service By 1966, Lymon had been arrested for heroin possession  and was facing jail time. Instead, he was given an alternative: enlistment in the United States Army . During his service, he was able to stay clean , but his troubles resurfaced when he returned to New York City  two years later. A Fatal Celebration In 1968 , Lymon signed a new record deal with Big Apple Records , hoping for a comeback. To celebrate, he relapsed , taking heroin for the first time in years. The celebration quickly turned tragic—he was found dead in his grandmother’s Harlem bathroom , a syringe by his side . A Lasting Legacy Despite his untimely death, Frankie Lymon’s influence on R&B, doo-wop, and pop music  remains undeniable. His trailblazing success as a young Black artist  paved the way for future generations. While his story serves as a cautionary tale of fame, addiction, and industry pressures , his music continues to inspire. Rest in peace, Frankie Lymon— gone too soon, but never forgotten.

Nigerian music sensation FAVE  has once again captivated audiences with a raw and soulful  performance of her song "Juju" on Bar4Bar TV. Known for her hypnotic vocals  and deeply personal songwriting, FAVE’s artistry continues to solidify her place as one of Afrobeats' brightest stars. From Viral Sensation to Afrobeats Powerhouse FAVE’s rise to fame began with minute-long Twitter videos  that took the Afrobeats community by storm during the early days of the COVID-19 lockdown . Her talent was undeniable, and what started as short performances quickly transformed into a full-blown career. Born into a small family of five , FAVE—whose real name is Godsfavour Chidozie —grew up in eastern and southwestern Nigeria . Her musical journey started in the church at the age of six , and by 19, she was a law student with a passion for songwriting , having only released one single, “M.O.M.M.S.”  before gaining internet fame in 2020. A Unique Sound and Artistic Identity While FAVE has dabbled in various genres like Dancehall, Afropop, Afrobeats, Dance, and R&B , she ultimately considers herself a “pop” artist . Her poetic approach to songwriting prioritizes vulnerability , crafting vivid narratives that evoke a whirlwind of emotions—often accompanied by groovy beats and high-energy drum patterns. The Future of Afrobeats After the success of her chart-topping hit "Baby Riddim" , FAVE was named "Rookie of the Year"  at the 2022 Headies Awards  and received multiple nominations at the Afrima Awards  and Soundcity Music Video Awards  for Best New Artist and Most Promising Artist . With each new release, FAVE continues to prove why she is touted as the future of Afrobeats . Be sure to follow her on Instagram @faveszn  and stream her latest song "Juju"  to experience the magic for yourself!

Bob Marley's timeless classic, "Waiting In Vain,"  is rumored to be inspired by his relationship with Cindy Breakspeare , the Jamaican beauty queen and mother of his son, Damian Marley . Their passionate affair, which lasted from 1976 to 1980 , unfolded during Bob’s marriage to Rita Marley  and remains one of the most talked-about love stories in reggae history. A Love That Inspired Music "Waiting In Vain" is a deeply emotional song about unrequited love, longing, and devotion , leading many to believe it was Marley’s way of expressing his feelings for Breakspeare. Though neither Cindy nor Bob ever publicly confirmed the song’s inspiration, the lyrics align with the timeline of their romance. A Lasting Legacy Despite the complexities of their relationship, Bob and Cindy remained close, sharing a deep bond through their son, Damian Marley , who would go on to become a Grammy-winning reggae artist himself. Their love story continues to be a significant part of Marley’s legacy, proving that his music was often a reflection of his personal experiences. Bob Marley’s influence transcends generations , and songs like "Waiting In Vain" serve as timeless testaments  to his depth as both an artist and a man driven by love, passion, and emotion.

Texas continues to solidify its reputation as a hip-hop powerhouse , and Dallas’s own Lil 6  is proving why he’s next up. With the release of his latest visuals for "Biggest" , Lil 6 is showcasing his undeniable talent, sharp lyricism, and commanding presence  in the rap game. A Rising Star in the Texas Rap Scene Lil 6 has been steadily gaining momentum, standing out with his authentic sound and raw delivery . "Biggest" further cements his place in the industry, highlighting his ability to craft music that resonates with fans while staying true to his roots. Building a Legacy With Texas continuously producing top-tier rap talent , Lil 6 is proving he has what it takes to be one of the next big names to emerge from the state. As he continues to drop heat, his buzz is only growing stronger. Follow Lil 6  on Instagram @noigsix2  and check out the visuals for "Biggest"  now!

New York’s very own Celly Cels  is making a name for herself in the music industry, and her latest release, "Lovin On Celly,"  is a testament to her star power. With a bold, confident, and unapologetically authentic presence, Celly Cels is proving why she’s one to watch. A Music Video That Matches Her Energy The visuals for "Lovin On Celly"  perfectly encapsulate the essence of her persona— fearless, charismatic, and full of attitude . Inspired by the legacy of an iconic wrestling legend, Celly Cels brings a unique flair to the industry, blending music and personality in a way that commands attention. Celly Cels: A Star on the Rise As she continues to carve out her own lane, Celly Cels is showing fans and critics alike that she’s here to stay. With her magnetic presence and raw talent, she’s not just another artist—she’s a force to be reckoned with. Stay Connected Be sure to check out the visuals for "Lovin On Celly" , streaming now, and follow Celly Cels on Instagram @celly.cels  to stay updated on her journey.

Remembering Al Jarreau: A Legendary Voice Silenced Too Soon The world lost a musical icon when Al Jarreau  passed away at the age of 76  from respiratory failure , just five days after announcing his retirement . The Grammy-winning singer had been hospitalized for two weeks  before his passing, leaving behind an incredible legacy that spanned jazz, R&B, and pop music. A Voice Like No Other Al Jarreau was a one-of-a-kind talent , known for his distinctive vocal style  and ability to seamlessly blend multiple genres. His career, which spanned over five decades, earned him seven Grammy Awards , making him one of the most celebrated jazz and R&B vocalists of all time. A Lasting Legacy Beyond his musical achievements, Jarreau was cherished for his warm spirit and unwavering passion for music . His contributions to the industry continue to inspire countless artists and fans alike. Jarreau is survived by his wife of 40 years  and his son , who now carry forward his memory and legacy. Though he may be gone, his music will forever remain a timeless testament to his brilliance.

Rising rapper Jperk  is back with another hard-hitting release, dropping the visuals for his latest track, “Beast.”  Known for his authentic storytelling, undeniable charisma, and unique flow , Jperk continues to solidify his presence in the competitive rap scene. A New Level of Energy and Passion “Beast” is a powerful display of Jperk’s raw talent and artistic vision . The track captures his signature style—gritty lyrics, a commanding delivery, and an unshakable confidence that sets him apart. The accompanying music video brings the song to life, reflecting the hunger and ambition  that fuel his artistry. Making Waves in the Hip-Hop Scene With each release, Jperk continues to build momentum, attracting both fans and industry attention. His ability to connect through his music has made him one of the most promising new names in Hip-Hop . If “Beast” is any indication, Jperk is only getting started. Stay tuned for more from this rising star, and be sure to follow him on Instagram @jperk24st  to keep up with his latest moves.

Bell Biv DeVoe’s “Poison”  is one of the most iconic New Jack Swing anthems of all time, but what many fans don’t know is that the song was originally intended for R&B singer Al B. Sure! . Why Al B. Sure! Passed on the Hit At the time, Al B. Sure! was fresh off the success of his 1988 debut album, In Effect Mode , which featured hits like “Nite and Day”  and “Off on Your Own (Girl).”  When presented with “Poison” , he reportedly felt that the track’s sound was too similar to what he had already explored in his music. Believing it wasn’t the right fit for him, he decided to pass on the opportunity. Bell Biv DeVoe’s Biggest Success This decision turned out to be a game-changer for Bell Biv DeVoe . The group, formed by New Edition members Ricky Bell, Michael Bivins, and Ronnie DeVoe, took on the track, and it became their biggest hit to date . Released in 1990, “Poison”  dominated the charts, peaking at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100  and No. 1 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart . With its infectious beat, edgy lyrics, and signature New Jack Swing production by Dr. Freeze , “Poison”  remains a timeless classic that continues to influence generations of artists and fans alike . What Could Have Been? Al B. Sure!’s decision to pass on “Poison”  was bold, but it ultimately paved the way for Bell Biv DeVoe to carve out their own lane in music history. Though Al has since acknowledged the song’s massive success, fans can only wonder what “Poison”  would have sounded like in his signature smooth style. Regardless, Bell Biv DeVoe made the song their own, creating a cultural phenomenon that still gets people on their feet over 30 years later .

In 2001, Oprah Winfrey dedicated an episode of The Oprah Winfrey Show  to showcasing rising African American female artists, particularly those in the Neo-Soul movement. The episode proved to be a pivotal moment in the careers of several artists, including India Arie, Alicia Keys, and Jill Scott. By bringing these talents to a national audience, Oprah played a crucial role in elevating their visibility and shaping the early 2000s music landscape. Alicia Keys, who was just beginning to gain mainstream attention, later described her appearance on the episode as a life-changing moment in her career. The exposure from Oprah’s platform helped solidify her position in the industry, setting the stage for her multi-platinum debut album, Songs in A Minor . Similarly, India Arie and Jill Scott, both known for their rich storytelling and soulful melodies, benefited greatly from the recognition, which led to wider appreciation for the Neo-Soul genre. However, not all artists received the same opportunity. Angie Stone, a veteran singer with deep roots in the genre, later revealed that she had been excluded from the episode. According to Stone, music mogul Clive Davis made the decision to leave her out, allegedly due to her weight. This revelation was heartbreaking for Stone, who had already established herself as a powerful force in R&B and Neo-Soul with hits like No More Rain (In This Cloud)  and Brotha . Stone’s exclusion sheds light on the ongoing struggles of body image and industry gatekeeping, particularly for Black women in music. Despite her absence from the episode, she continued to make a lasting impact on the genre, influencing generations of artists who followed. Oprah’s episode remains a significant cultural moment, one that both uplifted Neo-Soul and exposed the biases that have long plagued the music industry. For many, it was a night of celebration and new opportunities. For others, it was a painful reminder of the barriers that still existed, even for the most talented artists.

Rising music artist Lil Pak  is making waves with the release of his latest visuals for "Anthem"  featuring Big Boogie . With his unique style and ability to connect with fans on a deeper level, Lil Pak is proving that he’s a force to be reckoned with in the industry. A Rising Star with a Distinct Sound Lil Pak’s music stands out for its authenticity and raw energy, setting him apart from the crowd. His collaboration with Big Boogie on "Anthem"  showcases his lyrical ability, confidence, and undeniable potential as an artist. "Anthem" – A Statement Track The release of "Anthem"  is more than just another single—it’s a statement. The track brings hard-hitting bars and an infectious rhythm, creating a vibe that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners. The visuals further enhance the song's impact, bringing Lil Pak’s vision to life in a compelling way. Follow Lil Pak’s Journey With each new release, Lil Pak is solidifying his place in the rap scene  and proving that he’s here to stay. Be sure to check out the visuals for "Anthem" , streaming now, and follow Lil Pak on Instagram: @lilpakman  to stay updated on his latest moves.