Texas has long been a breeding ground for musical talent, and OG Kee is proving herself to be one of the state's brightest new stars. Today, she makes her debut on NOLAZINE with the release of her brand-new music video for "Swervin." From the moment we first heard OG Kee's music, it was clear that she possessed an incredible amount of talent and potential. What stood out most was her undeniable charisma—a quality that sets her apart from the crowd and makes her music something special. "Swervin" showcases OG Kee's unique style, blending confident lyricism with a flow that effortlessly rides the beat. The video, which complements the track perfectly, captures her energy and presence, further cementing her place as an artist to watch in the hip-hop scene. Since the early days of her career, OG Kee has continued to evolve and refine her sound, and "Swervin" is a testament to her growth and dedication as an artist. WATCH OG KEE INTERVIEW WITH NOLAZINE If you're looking for a fresh new voice in music, OG Kee is definitely worth your attention. Take a few minutes out of your Sunday to check out the "Swervin" music video, and if you're as impressed as we are, be sure to follow her on Instagram @ogkee5 to stay updated on her future releases. Texas has found a new gem in OG Kee, and we can't wait to see where her journey takes her next.

Kirsnick Khari Ball, known to the world as Takeoff, was more than just a rapper; he was a cultural icon whose influence on the hip-hop scene was undeniable. Born on June 18, 1994, in Lawrenceville, Georgia, Takeoff grew up in a close-knit family, raised by his mother, Titania Davenport, alongside his uncle Quavo and cousin Offset. Together, they would go on to form one of the most influential hip-hop groups of the modern era: Migos. Takeoff's journey into music began at an early age. He started making beats and developing rhythms as early as seventh grade, showcasing a natural talent for crafting sounds that would soon capture the attention of millions. However, it wasn't until 2011 that he, Quavo, and Offset officially burst onto the scene with the release of their mixtape "Juug Season," marking the beginning of their rise to fame. As the youngest member of Migos, Takeoff quickly made a name for himself with his distinct voice and effortless flow. The trio became known for their signature "triplet flow," a rapid-fire delivery that has since become a staple in hip-hop. Migos achieved widespread success, scoring multiple top-10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including tracks like "MotorSport" featuring Nicki Minaj and Cardi B, "Stir Fry," "Walk It Talk It" featuring Drake, and the chart-topping "Bad and Boujee" featuring Lil Uzi Vert. "Bad and Boujee" became a cultural phenomenon, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and solidifying Migos' place in hip-hop history. Throughout his career, Takeoff's contributions to Migos earned him two Grammy Award nominations, a testament to his talent and the impact he had on the music industry. Tragically, Takeoff's life was cut short on November 1, 2022, when he was fatally shot in Houston, Texas. His untimely death sent shockwaves through the music community and left fans mourning the loss of a rising star taken far too soon. Takeoff's legacy lives on through the music he created and the influence he left behind. He was not only a rapper but also a symbol of creativity and perseverance, inspiring countless artists and fans alike. As we remember Takeoff, we celebrate the life of a young man who achieved greatness and whose contributions to hip-hop will continue to resonate for years to come.

Memphis, Tennessee, is home to a treasure trove of musical talent, and Cyn is one of its brightest stars. Today, she's making her debut on our platform with the release of her brand-new music video for "No. 9." From the moment we first heard Cyn's music, it was clear that she possesses a unique blend of talent and potential. One of the standout qualities of her artistry is the charisma with which she delivers her verses—something that's increasingly rare in today's music scene. Since her initial introduction, Cyn has only continued to refine her craft, growing as an artist and honing her skills. Her latest release, "No. 9," is a testament to her evolution, showcasing her dynamic presence and the energy she brings to every track. Take a few minutes out of your Thursday to watch this fresh visual, and if you’re as impressed as we are, be sure to follow Cyn on Instagram at @cynnarco  to stay updated on her future releases. Cyn is undoubtedly a name to watch, and we can’t wait to see what she does next.

Soleil Ma'joi is making waves with the release of her brand new music video for "Assunder." From the moment we first heard her music, it was clear that Soleil Ma'joi possessed an extraordinary blend of talent and potential. What truly sets her apart is the charisma she brings to her performances—something that is increasingly rare in today's music scene. Since then, Soleil Ma'joi has only continued to grow as an artist, refining her sound and style in ways that have left a lasting impression on listeners. "Assunder" is a testament to her artistic evolution, showcasing a depth and maturity that suggests she's only just begun to tap into her potential. Take a few minutes out of your Thursday to watch the visually stunning music video for "Assunder" below. If you're captivated by Soleil Ma'joi's unique sound and presence, be sure to stay connected with her future releases by following her on Instagram @soleilmajoi .

Aliko Dangote, born on April 10, 1957, in Kano, Nigeria, is a name synonymous with industrial might and entrepreneurial brilliance. As the founder, chairman, and CEO of the Dangote Group, he has not only become a prominent figure in African business but also earned recognition as one of the wealthiest individuals in the world. With a net worth estimated at $13.4 billion as of August 2024 by the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, Dangote stands as the richest Black man globally and the 158th richest person overall. Early Life and Education Dangote's journey to becoming a billionaire began in a household deeply rooted in commerce. Born into a wealthy Hausa Muslim family, his mother, Mariya Sanusi Dantata, was the daughter of businessman Sanusi Dantata, and his father, Mohammed Dangote, was a successful businessman in his own right. This lineage of entrepreneurial success stretches back to his great-grandfather, Alhassan Dantata, who was the richest person in West Africa at the time of his death in 1955. Educated at the Sheikh Ali Kumasi Madrasa and later at Capital High School in Kano, Dangote pursued higher education at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business studies and administration. Building an Empire: The Dangote Group In 1977, Dangote established the Dangote Group as a small trading firm in Lagos. With a ₦500,000 loan from his uncle, he began trading in commodities such as cement, rice, and sugar. The Dangote Group has since grown into the largest industrial conglomerate in West Africa, with international operations spanning Benin, Ghana, Zambia, and Togo. The group now encompasses a wide range of industries, including sugar refining, cement production, flour milling, and more. Dangote’s companies dominate the sugar market in Nigeria, with his refinery supplying 70 percent of the country’s soft drink companies, breweries, and confectioners. The group also has significant investments in salt factories, flour mills, real estate, banking, textiles, oil, and gas, employing over 11,000 people across West Africa. The Dangote Refinery: A Game-Changer for Africa One of Dangote’s most ambitious projects is the Dangote Refinery, which was commissioned on May 22, 2023, in Lekki, Nigeria. This massive facility is situated on a 6,180-acre site in the Lekki Free Trade Zone and is supplied with crude oil by the largest sub-sea pipeline infrastructure in the world. The refinery is expected to transform Africa’s biggest oil producer into an export hub for petroleum products, marking a significant step forward in the continent’s industrialization. Philanthropy and Public Life Beyond business, Dangote is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has worked closely with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation on public health initiatives and has made substantial donations to combat Ebola, support Nigerians affected by the Boko Haram insurgency, and fight the spread of COVID-19. Despite rumors and public interest, Dangote has consistently stated that he has no intentions of running for political office. Instead, he has focused on using his resources and influence to promote economic growth and development in Nigeria and across Africa. Personal Life Dangote, who lives in Lagos, is known for his disciplined work ethic, reportedly working 12-hour days and maintaining a rigorous fitness routine. He is a father to three daughters and an adopted son and is also a passionate fan of Arsenal FC, with expressed interest in purchasing the club. Aliko Dangote’s journey from a small trading firm in Lagos to leading one of the largest industrial conglomerates in Africa is a testament to his vision, perseverance, and business acumen. As he continues to expand his empire, Dangote’s influence on Africa’s economic landscape is set to grow even further, solidifying his legacy as one of the continent’s most formidable entrepreneurs.

KashOutBanks, one of New York's rising stars, is making waves with the release of his latest music video, "Splash." A fresh face in the New York rap scene, KashOutBanks is quickly establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with. From the moment we first heard his music, it was clear that he possessed a unique charisma and undeniable talent that set him apart from the crowd. "Since the first time we heard KashOutBanks' music, we knew instantly that he had a ton of talent and potential," says the team at our website. "One of the first things we noticed is that he raps with a certain type of charisma that you just don’t see every day, and the wild part is, since then, he has improved as an artist." The "Splash" music video is a testament to KashOutBanks' growth and commitment to his craft. His delivery is sharp, his flow is effortless, and the visuals are nothing short of captivating. It's a release that promises to resonate with both his existing fans and those just discovering his music. KashOutBanks' journey is just beginning, but he's already showing that he's got what it takes to make a lasting impact in the industry. His ability to blend lyrical prowess with an engaging stage presence makes him a standout talent in New York's bustling rap scene. Take a few minutes out of your Thursday to watch the brand-new visual for "Splash" below, and if you're vibing with KashOutBanks' music, make sure to keep up with his future releases by following him on Instagram @kashoutbanks. The best is yet to come from this rising star.

Cecilia, Louisiana native Papi Zoo is making waves with his latest single, "Sports Mode," the lead track from his highly anticipated upcoming mixtape DayMare . The song has been gaining traction across multiple Louisiana radio stations and has already garnered over 8,000 views on YouTube, a number that continues to climb as more listeners discover his unique sound. Papi Zoo is one of Louisiana's hidden gems, and his return to the spotlight with the release of "Sports Mode" is a testament to his growing influence in the music scene. From the moment we first heard Papi Zoo’s music, it was clear that he possessed a rare combination of talent and charisma. His rapping style is both captivating and distinctive, setting him apart from many of his peers. In "Sports Mode," Papi Zoo showcases not only his lyrical prowess but also his ability to create music that resonates with a wide audience. The energy and confidence he brings to the track are infectious, making it a standout single that leaves listeners eager for more. WATCH PAPI ZOO INTERVIEW As we await the full release of DayMare , "Sports Mode" offers a promising glimpse into what Papi Zoo has in store. If you haven’t already, take a few minutes out of your day to check out the music video below. And if you're a fan of Papi Zoo's music, be sure to follow him on Instagram @_papizoo to stay updated on his future releases.

Atlanta has long been a breeding ground for musical talent, and SaluteChi is one of the latest artists to emerge from the city's vibrant scene. Today, she makes her debut on our platform with the release of her brand new music video for "Shake." From the moment we first heard SaluteChi's music, it was clear that she possesses an extraordinary blend of talent and potential. Her charismatic style of rap immediately stood out, something that isn’t seen every day. What's even more impressive is that SaluteChi has continued to hone her craft, showing noticeable improvement with each new release. "Shake" is a testament to her growth as an artist, offering a fresh and energetic vibe that is sure to resonate with listeners. Take a few minutes out of your day to watch this brand new visual, and if you find yourself vibing with SaluteChi's sound, be sure to keep up with her future releases by following her on Instagram @salutechi.

Photography by Notorious Lenses Karen Civil, also known as "KC," is a name synonymous with innovation in the digital media and music industries. Born on November 8, 1984, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Civil has carved out an influential career as a music executive, digital media marketing strategist, and public speaker. With a career that spans from building fan sites in her college dorm room to managing some of hip-hop's biggest names, Civil has become a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment world. Early Beginnings: From Fan Sites to Hip-Hop Mogul Civil's journey into the world of media and entertainment began in college, where she created fan sites for actor J.D. Williams and the Backstreet Boys. Her work caught the attention of industry insiders, including Williams' lawyer, which helped her establish connections that would later prove invaluable. After graduating from high school, Civil decided to leave community college to pursue an internship at Hot 97 with DJ Funkmaster Flex in 2002. This opportunity allowed her to gain hands-on experience and deepen her understanding of the music industry. Founding Always Civil Enterprise In 2008, Civil launched her own website, KarenCivil.com , and founded Always Civil Enterprise, a digital strategy agency focused on the hip-hop industry. Her first major client was none other than Lil Wayne, with whom she created the website Weezythanxyou.com , a platform that allowed the rapper to communicate with his fans while incarcerated at Rikers Island. This project not only showcased Civil's digital prowess but also solidified her reputation as a trusted figure in the music industry. Expanding Influence in the Music Industry Civil's entrepreneurial spirit and innovative strategies led to collaborations with a wide array of artists, including Mary J. Blige, Young Jeezy, Lee Daniels, Dave East, and James Harden. Her work extended beyond digital marketing as she took on roles such as general manager and executive vice president of Lil Wayne's Young Money Entertainment in August 2022. In addition to her work with Young Money, Civil co-founded the Marathon Agency and played a crucial role in the development of the "Marathon Clothing" smartstore alongside Nipsey Hussle and Samiel Asghedom. Her contributions to Nipsey Hussle's legacy were further highlighted when she helped plan his memorial service in April 2019, where she read a letter from former President Barack Obama that praised the rapper for his work in the community. Philanthropy and Social Advocacy Civil's impact extends far beyond the music industry. She has been an outspoken advocate for women's rights in the workplace and has used her platform to support various philanthropic initiatives. In 2015, she began building a playground in Haiti and later opened the Live Civil Computer Lab at the House of Hope Orphanage in 2017, donating 20 computers to the children. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including being named "Social Influencer of the Year" by Black Enterprise and receiving the Key to the City from Elizabeth, New Jersey. Civil has also been compared to Oprah Winfrey for her influence in the rap industry, a testament to her significant contributions to the field. A Legacy of Empowerment and Innovation Karen Civil's story is one of resilience, innovation, and empowerment. From her early days as a fan site creator to becoming a major player in the hip-hop industry, Civil has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible. Her work has not only shaped the careers of some of the biggest names in music but has also made a lasting impact on communities both in the U.S. and abroad. As she continues to break new ground in the digital and music industries, Karen Civil remains a powerful example of how passion, creativity, and a commitment to making a difference can lead to extraordinary success.

Jerome Temple, professionally known as DJ Jubilee, is a legendary figure in the New Orleans music scene. Hailing from the St. Thomas Projects in the 10th Ward of the city’s Lower Garden District, DJ Jubilee has not only helped shape the sound of Bounce Music but has also become an iconic figure in the genre. A graduate of Walter L. Cohen High School and Grambling State University, DJ Jubilee began his journey in music by DJing block parties in his neighborhood. In the early 1990s, DJ Jubilee's unique style of Bounce Music started to gain traction across the Gulf Coast region. He quickly became known as “The King of Bounce,” a title he earned by bringing the energy and rhythm of New Orleans’ streets to the forefront of Southern hip-hop. His 1990 cassette single, Do The Jubilee All  on Take Fo' Records, is particularly notable for being the first recorded use of the word "twerk," a term that has since become a staple in pop culture worldwide. DJ Jubilee's influence continued to grow, and in 1998, he released the album Take It To the St. Thomas  on Take Fo' Records, which debuted at #61 on Billboard’s Top R&B Albums chart. This achievement marked a significant milestone for Bounce Music, bringing the genre closer to mainstream recognition. In November 2013, DJ Jubilee made history once again by headlining the first Bounce show at New Orleans' prestigious Preservation Hall, accompanied by the Big Easy Bounce Band. This performance solidified his status as a pioneer of Bounce Music and an enduring figure in New Orleans' vibrant musical legacy. DJ Jubilee's contributions to the music world extend far beyond his neighborhood, influencing a new generation of artists and helping to popularize the Bounce genre. His legacy continues to inspire and shape the sound of New Orleans and Southern hip-hop to this day.

Lee Daniels, the acclaimed director known for his work on Precious  and The United States vs. Billie Holiday , has recently shared unsettling details about the eerie occurrences that transpired during the filming of his latest Netflix horror movie, The Deliverance . The film, which is based on a true story, stars Andra Day, Glenn Close, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, and Mo'Nique, and it delves into the terrifying experiences of a family haunted by malevolent forces. The Deliverance  centers on Ebony Jackson (played by Andra Day), a struggling single mother seeking a fresh start for her family. However, their new home soon becomes the site of strange and terrifying events, drawing the attention of Child Protective Services and plunging Ebony into a desperate battle to protect her children from an unseen evil. Daniels, who has a deep respect for the spiritual realm, initially hesitated to take on the project. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter , he revealed that he had first heard about the true story behind the film, which involves Latoya Ammons and her children, after making Precious . Despite being intrigued, Daniels chose to steer clear of the project at first. "I felt that I didn’t want to do another story about abuse," Daniels explained. "This woman was abusing her kids—or what defines as abuse, because she was hitting the kids. And two, I know how I work. I’m an open portal. And I know what I demand. And I know the spirit works through me. So what kind of spirits do I want on me?" Despite his initial reluctance, the story of The Deliverance  stayed with Daniels for years. He eventually felt compelled to tell the tale, especially through the lens of an African American woman—a perspective that he felt was crucial to explore in these challenging times. "I just felt we’re in such dark times, and I don’t think people really know how dark of times we are in," Daniels said. "And I felt like I needed to get reconnected to my higher power." However, the decision to move forward with the film came with its own set of challenges. During the production, several strange and tragic events occurred, leading Daniels to organize prayer circles on set in an attempt to ward off any supernatural forces. Despite these precautions, unsettling incidents continued to unfold. "My sister is in every movie that I’ve ever done as my good luck charm," Daniels shared in an interview with Sirius XM. "She was in the scene with Glenn in the chemo scene, and two days later, after being in the chemo scene, she was diagnosed with lung cancer—literally. My dog died on the set." The cast and crew were not immune to the eerie atmosphere either. Mo'Nique, who plays a social worker in the film, revealed that she was hospitalized after filming one particularly intense scene. The production also faced other disruptions, including unexpected deaths of cast members' family members and a sudden electrical fire that destroyed part of the set, prompting a priest to be called in to perform an exorcism. The Deliverance , which debuted on Netflix on August 30, is based on a 2014 Indianapolis Star article titled "The Exorcisms of Latoya Ammons," detailing the real-life haunting of Ammons and her three children by shadowy figures and swarms of black flies. For fans of horror films like The Exorcist , this new movie promises to be a chilling addition to their watchlist. Lee Daniels' experience on the set of The Deliverance  is a stark reminder of the power of the stories we choose to tell and the potential consequences of delving into the unknown. As viewers tune in to watch this harrowing tale, they may find themselves wondering just how much of what they see on screen could be a reflection of real, unseen forces at play.

The New York music scene is renowned for producing a seemingly endless array of talented artists, and Brooklyn is home to many of them. While icons like Lil Kim, Foxy Brown, and Nicki Minaj have long been associated with the city, there’s a new wave of artists making their mark on the underground level. One of the most promising talents emerging from The Big Apple is TheRealClarity. TheRealClarity has been working relentlessly over the past few months to perfect her craft. Though she might not yet be receiving the widespread recognition she deserves, her consistency and dedication are undeniable. Her latest music video for "Issues" is a testament to her talent and potential. As TheRealClarity continues to grind and refine her sound, it's only a matter of time before her hard work pays off and she secures her place in the broader music industry. In the meantime, fans and new listeners alike can check out her latest visuals and follow her journey on Instagram at @therealclarity .