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Usher’s iconic Confessions  album is filled with unforgettable hits, but one track with a surprising backstory is "Can U Handle It?". While many fans know it as one of the album's standout slow jams, few may realize that it was actually written by fellow R&B artist Robin Thicke. Beyond just writing the song, Thicke also lent his talents to the track in more ways than one. He provided background vocals, adding his smooth touch to the already sultry vibe of the song. But that’s not all—his then-wife, actress Paula Patton, also contributed. Patton is the female voice heard on the track, helping to round out the sensual atmosphere that made "Can U Handle It?" such a memorable part of Confessions . This collaboration between Thicke, Patton, and Usher is just another layer to the legacy of an album that remains a cornerstone of early 2000s R&B.

On July 23, 1993 , at around 10:30 PM , DeVante Swing —the musical mastermind behind Jodeci—experienced a life-altering home invasion that left him permanently scarred. As DeVante slept, two armed intruders  slipped into his home through an open garage door . They blindfolded  him, tied his hands behind his back , and pistol-whipped him four times , fracturing his skull. The situation grew even more chilling when they forced a gun into his mouth  while holding another to the back of his head, threatening to kill him. The assailants ultimately stole $20,000 worth of jewelry  before fleeing the scene. Despite the violent attack, the thieves were never caught . Jodeci members were in the studio that night, working on their sophomore album, Diary of a Mad Band . Mr. Dalvin , DeVante's brother and fellow group member, recalled the night in a 2017 VLAD TV interview. He noted that DeVante’s absence  raised concerns, leading them to check on him—where they discovered the horrific aftermath. DeVante, despite his injuries, fought back , even managing to bite off one of the intruder’s fingers  in his struggle for survival. The trauma of the event deeply affected DeVante. Two years later, he told Vibe Magazine , “Shit made me want to fuck up a nigga. I’m in trouble for guns, but you won’t catch me not packing.” According to Mr. Dalvin, the two assailants were cousins , and karma eventually caught up with them— one killed the other , and the surviving attacker is currently serving time for murder . Though DeVante Swing never fully recovered from the incident , he remains an R&B legend  whose impact on music is undeniable. His genius production, songwriting, and influence on artists like Timbaland and Missy Elliott  continue to shape the sound of R&B and hip-hop today.

New Orleans has always been a breeding ground for elite talent—artists who bring raw emotion, authenticity, and a sound that can only come from the Crescent City. Among the newest wave of rising stars stands Allay Earhart , an American Hip-Hop artist whose name deserves much more recognition. Despite being one of the most slept-on artists in the city, Allay continues to prove he’s equipped with the drive, skill, and star power to go global. A New Orleans Artist With a Purpose Allay Earhart represents the heart of New Orleans—resilient, creative, and unapologetically bold. With a mission to Reach All People’s Ears , Allay approaches music with intention. His sound is uniquely his own, blending sharp lyricism with a charismatic delivery that instantly grabs attention. Every verse, every hook, and every performance reflects an artist who knows exactly who he is and where he’s going. A Standout Performer With Unmatched MC Skills What separates Allay Earhart from the crowd is his effortless stage presence . Whether performing for intimate crowds or larger venues, Allay commands the room with a confidence that can’t be taught. His MC capabilities are unmatched—smooth, sharp, and precise. That raw talent has earned him numerous performance opportunities across the region, where he consistently leaves audiences wanting more. Ambition That’s Hard to Ignore Allay’s grind speaks for itself. He carries himself like an independent artist who understands the importance of consistency, quality, and staying true to the craft. His sound is polished yet gritty, fresh yet familiar—a perfect reflection of New Orleans’ musical DNA fused with his own creative identity. As he continues to elevate and expand his reach, it’s clear that Allay Earhart is not just another rapper. He’s a storyteller, a visionary, and an emerging force in Hip-Hop. Stream the Music & Support the Movement If you haven’t tapped in with Allay Earhart yet, now is the time. His catalog is filled with music that resonates deeply with listeners and showcases his growth as an artist. Make sure you stream his latest releases and follow him on Instagram: @allayearhart. New Orleans knows real talent—and Allay Earhart is next in line to carry that torch.

When you talk about the foundation of New Orleans bounce music, the conversation isn’t complete without mentioning Ricky B —the St. Bernard–born artist whose influence helped shape an entire genre and preserve a culture. Known to the world as the voice behind the iconic 1994 anthem “Shake For Ya Hood,”  Ricky B (real name Rick Bickham ) is both a musical pioneer and a storyteller of a New Orleans that existed long before Hurricane Katrina reshaped the city forever. The Sound of New Orleans in One Anthem Ricky B’s signature hit, “Shake For Ya Hood” —also known as “Shake It Fo Ya Hood”  or the uncensored “Shake For Your Muthafkn Hood If It’s All Good” —quickly became a bounce classic. The song shouted out neighborhoods and housing projects across the city, instantly making it an anthem for pride, unity, and the raw energy that defined New Orleans street culture. Its beat, crafted with elements inspired by brass bands and even touches of Mardi Gras Indian chants, captured the heartbeat of the city. In a rare stroke of brilliance and foresight for its time, the track avoided copyright issues thanks to the producer replaying the melody of The Staple Singers’ “I’ll Take You There” instead of sampling the original. Because of that, “Shake For Ya Hood” remains one of the few early bounce records that can be legally reissued today. A Pioneer of Bounce and a Voice for the Community Growing up in the St. Bernard projects  in the 7th Ward, Ricky B pulled directly from his environment—its sounds, rhythms, struggles, and celebrations—to create music that truly represented New Orleans life. He became known not just as an artist, but as a cultural historian , capturing the essence of the city’s pre-Katrina housing developments and the people who lived there. His contributions have solidified him as one of the godfathers of bounce , standing alongside names like Big Freedia as a central figure in the genre’s rise. Life After Music: Preserving the Culture and Giving Back In recent years, Ricky B has expanded his legacy far beyond the stage. He authored a powerful book titled Shake For Your Muthafkn Hood If It’s All Good , reflecting on life in the now-demolished St. Bernard projects, documenting stories and memories that might have otherwise been lost to time. He has also remained deeply committed to community work. Ricky B founded a non-profit focused on helping families visit loved ones who are incarcerated, demonstrating his devotion to uplifting and supporting the people of New Orleans. Today, he continues to perform—often backed by live musicians—bringing bounce music’s rich history into the present and ensuring the culture remains alive for the next generation. A Legacy That Will Always Shake the City Ricky B’s imprint on New Orleans music and culture is undeniable. From creating one of the genre’s most timeless bounce anthems to preserving the stories of a lost era, he stands as a legend who helped define the sound and soul of the city. He didn’t just make people dance— he made them represent their hood. And New Orleans will always shake for Ricky B.

In the pantheon of Southern hip-hop legends, the name Tony Draper  stands tall—not just as a music executive, but as a trailblazing entrepreneur  who helped shape the sound and spirit of an entire era. From his humble beginnings in Memphis, Tennessee , to his rise as a music mogul in Houston, Texas , Draper’s journey is a powerful story of hustle, vision, and Southern ingenuity. While most teenagers were still figuring out their path in life, Tony Draper launched Suave House Records at just 16 years old —a feat that speaks volumes about his drive and business acumen. Growing up in a culture where “getting it out the mud” was a way of life, Draper soaked up the lessons of local hustlers and self-starters. Whether it was the candy lady on the block or kids flipping sneakers for profit, Draper was inspired by the entrepreneurial hustle that pulsed through the South. Draper’s early grind included working at Olive Garden , where fate would place him alongside future collaborator Big Mike . Their shared ambitions sparked something bigger. One day, after hearing Mike's demo in the car, Draper recognized the potential and encouraged him to get back in the studio. That moment was the spark that would light the flame for Suave House Records. Draper's ear for talent and his instinct for business led him to pass Big Mike’s demo to John Bido , a producer at the iconic Rap-A-Lot Records . This bold move initiated a powerful partnership that would bridge Suave House with one of the South's most respected labels, setting the stage for a major breakthrough. Though he was raised in Houston, Draper never forgot his Memphis roots. That duality gave him a rare perspective—he understood both the gritty soul of Memphis  and the bold energy of Houston , allowing him to market his artists with an authentic Southern voice. Long before the days of Instagram and viral campaigns, Draper was in the streets , moving units hand-to-hand and building relationships that mattered. His strategic focus on Chicago  helped expand Suave House beyond regional success. By personally traveling to the Windy City and connecting with tastemakers like Rapmaster Pinkhouse , Draper made Chicago the biggest market for Suave House music. This exposure was pivotal in catapulting the label’s flagship artists— 8Ball & MJG —into national recognition. Under Draper’s leadership, Suave House delivered some of the most influential Southern rap albums of the '90s. 8Ball & MJG  became household names in hip-hop, thanks to hits like “Comin’ Out Hard”  and “On Top of the World.”  Draper’s meticulous work ethic, business foresight, and personal investment in his artists allowed Suave House to stand toe-to-toe with powerhouse labels of the time. More than just a label executive, Tony Draper was a cultural architect , helping define the Southern rap sound and pushing it into the mainstream. Today, Tony Draper’s story is an essential chapter in hip-hop history  and a blueprint for young entrepreneurs everywhere. He turned a teenage dream into a full-fledged empire, built on raw talent, grit, and an unshakable belief in himself. In an age where viral moments come and go, Draper's legacy reminds us that longevity comes from groundwork —from investing in real talent, making real connections, and staying true to the vision . Tony Draper is more than a music mogul—he’s a Southern pioneer whose entrepreneurial legacy continues to inspire the next generation of artists, executives, and dreamers.

Hip-hop has long been a space for raw storytelling, street wisdom, and lyrical grit—but every now and then, it births a timeless love song that transcends the genre. One of the most iconic of those songs is "You're All I Need to Get By"  by Method Man  featuring Mary J. Blige —a track that not only shook the charts but also told a story rooted in real love. While fans praised the chemistry on the track and the soulful sample of Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell’s original, few know the deeply personal story behind the record. During a demanding tour schedule, Method Man found himself emotionally drained and missing his longtime girlfriend, Tamika , whom he hadn’t seen in over a month. In a move driven by longing and love, he flew her out just to be with her. That night, while she slept peacefully by his side, inspiration struck. Moved by the simple yet powerful presence of the woman he loved, Method Man began writing what would become a heartfelt tribute to their bond. That song—raw, passionate, and undeniably authentic—would evolve into the Grammy Award-winning "You're All I Need to Get By."  Blige's soulful vocals added another layer of depth, and together, they created one of hip-hop’s greatest love anthems. Beyond the music, the love between Method Man and Tamika is the real story. The couple has been together for 33 years , marrying in 2001 , and raising three children . Through the chaos of fame, the highs and lows of the entertainment world, and personal trials, their relationship has remained a pillar of strength. In an industry where love stories often fade as fast as they’re made, Method Man and Tamika’s enduring bond is a rare gem —a reminder that true love not only exists, but it can also inspire greatness. The next time you hear "You're All I Need to Get By," remember it’s more than a song—it’s a love letter from a hip-hop legend to the woman who’s stood by him through it all.

Few names hold as much cultural weight in the South as DJ Screw , born Robert Earl Davis Jr.  A native of Smithville, Texas , and raised in Houston , DJ Screw redefined the soundscape of hip-hop by pioneering the chopped and screwed  technique—a slowed-down, syrupy style that became emblematic of Houston's underground scene and, eventually, its mainstream influence. DJ Screw began experimenting with music as a child, inspired by the breakdancing film Breakin’  and his mother's old turntable. By the age of 12 , he was already scratching records, unknowingly laying the groundwork for a subgenre that would become a cornerstone of Southern hip-hop. What began as simple experimentation quickly evolved into something groundbreaking. By the early 1990s, DJ Screw had perfected his signature sound —slowing down the tempo of popular tracks, chopping them up with record scratches and skips to create a hypnotic, melancholic vibe that was both jarring and beautiful. His early chopped-and-screwed mixtapes, initially distributed hand-to-hand, exploded in popularity across Houston. These tapes gave rise to the Screwed Up Click (S.U.C.) , a collective of Houston rappers and DJs including legends like Lil’ Keke , Fat Pat , Big Moe , E.S.G. , and Big Pokey . The S.U.C. became a movement, and DJ Screw’s name was its flag. He would go on to release over 350 mixtapes , turning his unique sound into an empire. His storefront, Screwed Up Records and Tapes , became a Houston landmark and cultural hub for fans and aspiring artists. On November 16, 2000 , DJ Screw died from a codeine overdose  at the age of 29. The loss was devastating to the hip-hop community, especially in Houston, where he was revered not just as a DJ, but as a visionary and leader. His death also brought national attention to the dangers of codeine-promethazine syrup, commonly known as “lean,” a drug deeply associated with the slowed-down music he helped popularize. Despite his untimely passing, DJ Screw’s influence only grew. Artists like Drake , A$AP Rocky , Bun B , and Travis Scott  have cited Screw as a major influence. His posthumous album, 3 'n the Mornin' (Part Two) , remains a staple of Houston hip-hop and was hailed by the Houston Press  as one of the city’s best rap albums ever. Texas Governor Rick Perry  even recognized DJ Screw as an official Texas Music Pioneer , a rare and powerful acknowledgment of his cultural contribution. DJ Screw’s legacy is celebrated annually at DJ Screwfest , a music festival and car show that draws thousands of fans, also known as “ screwheads .” And with the upcoming biopic “All Screwed Up” , his story is poised to reach new audiences, cementing his place in hip-hop history. DJ Screw wasn’t just a DJ—he was a cultural architect , a sound innovator , and a Houston hero . His chopped and screwed technique altered the pace of hip-hop forever, and his voice still echoes in the genre’s deepest corners. In the words of many who knew and admired him, Robert Earl Davis Jr.  wasn’t just Screwed Up—he was ahead of his time . Follow DJ Screw's legacy and learn more through his historic mixtapes and commemorations by the Screwed Up Click and Houston’s hip-hop community. His music may be slowed down, but his influence? Forever timeless.

In the early 2000s, Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes, the fiery and spiritual member of the iconic group TLC, began experiencing chilling premonitions about her own death. According to those closest to her, these feelings were not fleeting anxieties — they were persistent and vivid warnings that something was coming. Lisa confided in her inner circle that she sensed a spirit was following her, an invisible force that she could not shake. Even her mother, Wanda Lopes-Coleman, had an unsettling vision of Lisa lying in a casket. In the days leading up to April 25, 2002, these eerie feelings intensified. Lisa, who had traveled to Honduras seeking peace, healing, and a deeper spiritual connection, documented much of her trip on camera. She spoke openly about the sense that her life was nearing its end, almost as if she was trying to make peace with her fate. Tragically, the premonitions came true. While driving a rented Mitsubishi Montero SUV in La Ceiba, Honduras, Lisa swerved to avoid a truck and then sharply turned left to avoid an oncoming car. She lost control of the vehicle, which rolled multiple times after striking two trees. The violent crash ejected Lisa and several passengers from the windows before the SUV came to rest in a ditch. Of all the occupants, Lisa was the only one fatally injured. Her cause of death was listed as a “fracture of the base of the cranium” and “open cerebral trauma.” Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes was just 30 years old. Her death was not just a tragic accident but, for many who knew her, an eerie fulfillment of warnings she had been voicing for over a year. Even now, decades later, her final days and the spiritual unease she expressed remain one of the most haunting aspects of her legacy.

Already capturing attention across the globe, Melbourne-raised and Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Elle Eliades  is quickly becoming one of the most compelling and refreshing voices in today’s R&B/Soul scene. With a unique tone, honey-coated vocals, and a gift for writing with raw vulnerability, Elle has carved out a space entirely her own—one that resonates deeply with listeners from all corners of the world. On October 24th, 2025 , Elle released her highly anticipated debut EP, Elora , a mesmerizing 7-track project that showcases her artistic depth and undeniable talent. Entirely self-written and recorded between Melbourne  and Los Angeles , the EP feels like an intimate journey—soft, dreamy, emotional, and beautifully layered. Each song is drenched in heartfelt lyricism, lush production, and the kind of soul-stirring vocal performance that has quickly positioned Elle as an emerging force in R&B. What sets Elle apart is her ability to blend tenderness with emotional intensity. Her soothing vocals and delicate penmanship allow her to tell stories that feel personal yet universally relatable. It’s this authenticity—and her effortless ability to transport listeners into her world—that has industry watchers calling her an “artist to watch.” With Elora , Elle Eliades proves she’s not just stepping onto the global stage—she’s claiming her space with grace, artistry, and undeniable talent. Stream her debut EP “Elora”  now on all platforms and stay connected with her journey by following her on Instagram: @elleeliades .

In the early 1980s, Vincent Price, already a household name in horror films, was approached to lend his iconic voice to a new, experimental track for pop sensation Michael Jackson’s upcoming album. The song, "Thriller," was set to include a spoken-word segment to enhance its eerie, horror-inspired theme, and Price’s legendary voice was the perfect match. What came next was a decision that would echo through music history: Price was offered the choice between taking a share of the album's profits or accepting a one-time flat fee of $20,000 for his contribution. Price, a seasoned actor with decades of experience in film and radio, opted for the $20,000 fee—a reasonable sum at the time. However, what seemed like a smart financial decision in the moment turned out to be a missed opportunity of a lifetime. Thriller , released in November 1982, went on to become the best-selling album in music history, selling over 70 million copies worldwide and cementing Michael Jackson's status as the King of Pop. If Price had chosen to take a percentage of the album’s profits, his earnings would likely have reached into the millions, given the unprecedented commercial success of the album. The voice-over itself became one of the most memorable parts of the "Thriller" experience. Price's distinctive, haunting voice narrates the chilling verse near the song’s climax, perfectly complementing the spooky atmosphere. The infamous evil laugh that closes out the track became a defining moment of the song, contributing to the theatricality that helped Thriller  transcend traditional pop music and establish itself as a cultural phenomenon. Price’s narration was a vital element in creating the cinematic, horror-movie feel that made the song’s accompanying music video legendary. In the decades since Thriller’s  release, Price’s decision to accept a flat fee has been the subject of much conversation and intrigue. While he could not have predicted the massive success that awaited the album, Price was already an established star, and it’s possible he saw the gig as a fun, creative one-off rather than a potential financial windfall. After all, at that point in his career, Price had little to prove. He had appeared in countless films, from horror classics to comedic parodies, and his voice work had been featured in a variety of radio programs, commercials, and cartoons. Despite missing out on millions in potential profits, Price remained gracious about his involvement in Thriller . In interviews, he expressed his amusement and pride in being part of such a monumental moment in pop culture. His contribution to Thriller  further extended his legacy beyond the horror genre, making him a key player in the success of the best-selling album of all time. The story of Vincent Price’s $20,000 choice serves as a reminder that even the most legendary projects can have surprising and unexpected behind-the-scenes stories. His voice remains immortalized in Thriller , and while he may not have reaped the financial rewards of its success, his contribution helped create one of the most iconic moments in music history, ensuring his place in pop culture for generations to come. Though the decision may seem like a misstep in retrospect, it also speaks to the unpredictability of the music industry and how no one could have foreseen the meteoric rise of Thriller . For Vincent Price, it was a decision he made with confidence, and ultimately, his voice continues to echo in the annals of both music and horror history, making his presence on the track invaluable, no matter the price tag.

R&B icon Usher recently opened up about a deeply personal chapter of his life, revealing that he once proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas of TLC, but she turned him down. During their highly publicized relationship in the early 2000s, Usher was deeply in love and ready to take the next step. However, Chilli reportedly declined his proposal, believing their marriage would ultimately end in divorce. In a candid reflection, Usher admitted that her rejection caused him significant emotional pain, leading to trust issues and reluctance to open up in future relationships. "She didn't believe that I was actually in love with her as much as I was. I went through a great deal of pain after that, not trusting women or wanting to open up,"  he shared. Three years after his split from Chilli, Usher went on to marry his first wife, Tameka Foster. His personal life has seen its share of ups and downs, with two divorces before finding love again with his current wife, music executive Jennifer Goicoechea. The couple, who have been together since 2019, share two children. Meanwhile, Chilli has moved on as well and is currently in a relationship with actor Matthew Lawrence. Despite their past, Usher and Chilli remain one of R&B’s most iconic former couples, with fans still reminiscing about their love story.

Alicia Keys’ powerful ballad “Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)”  has long been praised for its raw emotion, haunting melodies, and heartfelt vulnerability. Released in 2009 as part of her critically acclaimed album The Element of Freedom , the single became an R&B classic—topping the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart for an impressive 12 consecutive weeks and selling over 3 million units in the United States alone. But behind Alicia’s stirring vocal delivery lies a lesser-known truth: the song’s deeply personal lyrics were penned by none other than Drake , and they were inspired by someone close to his heart— Nicki Minaj . At the time, Drake and Nicki Minaj were rising stars in the Young Money empire, sharing undeniable chemistry both on and off the mic. While their relationship never officially moved beyond friendship, fans and insiders alike have speculated for years about the romantic tension that seemed to simmer beneath the surface. “Un-Thinkable”  was Drake’s quiet way of speaking what couldn’t be said publicly. The lyrics speak to the fear and excitement of stepping into unfamiliar emotional territory: “If you ask me, I'm ready…” That line, repeated like a mantra throughout the song, captures the vulnerability of someone willing to take a risk for love—mirroring the feelings Drake allegedly held for Nicki during their early days together. Though it was Alicia Keys who ultimately delivered the song, her voice served as the perfect vessel for Drake’s emotional message. The two artists worked closely during the creative process, with Alicia breathing life into the intimate words Drake wrote. The result? A timeless love song that resonated far beyond the context of its creation. Knowing that the lyrics were born out of Drake’s real-life connection to Nicki Minaj reframes the song entirely. What was once seen as a general ballad about romantic courage becomes a poignant snapshot of a complicated friendship that teetered on the edge of something more. More than a chart-topping hit, “Un-Thinkable (I’m Ready)”  is now remembered as a moment of quiet vulnerability from one of hip-hop’s most introspective artists. For Drake, it was a heartfelt letter cloaked in melody. For Nicki Minaj, it was a tribute hidden in plain sight. And for fans, it’s a deeper understanding of a song that has already stood the test of time. This revelation cements “Un-Thinkable”  as more than just an R&B gem—it’s a lyrical love note frozen in history, forever capturing the emotional crossroads of two of hip-hop and R&B’s most iconic figures.