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The first woman ever placed on the FBI’s Most Wanted Terrorists list was  Assata Shakur , a name that carries both controversy and historical weight. With a $2 million bounty on her head, Shakur’s story is one that continues to spark debate decades after the events that made her infamous. Born  Joanne Chesimard , she was a member of the Black Liberation Army in the 1970s, a time of intense political and social unrest in the United States. Shakur was convicted in connection with the 1973 killing of a New Jersey State Trooper, though she has always maintained her innocence. After escaping from prison in 1979, she fled to Cuba, where she was granted political asylum and has lived ever since. In 2013, the FBI named Assata Shakur the first woman on its Most Wanted Terrorists list, underscoring the government’s long-standing determination to bring her back to the U.S. Her bounty was set at  $2 million , making her one of the most high-profile fugitives of modern times. Adding another layer of intrigue to her story is her family connection: Assata Shakur is the  godmother of legendary rapper Tupac Shakur . The bond between them has often been highlighted as a symbol of the intersection between activism, struggle, and culture. Assata Shakur remains a polarizing figure—seen by some as a freedom fighter and by others as a dangerous criminal. Regardless of perspective, her legacy is cemented in American history as the woman who defied the odds and challenged one of the most powerful institutions in the world.

Rising rap artist  Dripp King  is making noise with his latest release  “Lil Shi,”  the first single from his highly anticipated upcoming album  “Switch Da Wave.”  The track is already turning heads for its energy, hard-hitting flow, and memorable hook—cementing Dripp King’s place as one of the next artists to watch. The  “Lil Shi”  music video, shot and edited by  WASTEDOPPS , brings the record to life with sharp visuals that perfectly match Dripp King’s raw delivery and charisma. It’s a showcase of both his artistry and his ability to connect with listeners through unapologetic lyrics and a confident presence. As the lead single from  “Switch Da Wave,”   “Lil Shi”  sets the tone for what fans can expect from the project: bold, creative, and full of energy. Dripp King is proving that he’s ready to step up in the rap game and bring his unique style to a wider audience. Stay connected with Dripp King and follow his journey on Instagram:  @bigdrippbusiness .

In 1999, Destiny’s Child was riding a wave of momentum after their hit single “Bills, Bills, Bills” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. But that momentum hit a snag with the underperformance of their follow-up single, “Bug A Boo,” which peaked at a modest No. 33. Concerned with the direction of the group’s second album The Writing’s on the Wall , Columbia Records was hesitant to release “Say My Name” as the next single. That hesitation almost cost the group one of the biggest songs of their career. “Say My Name” was a gamble.  It featured a bold, stuttering beat from producer Rodney “Darkchild” Jerkins and a complex vocal arrangement that was unlike anything else on radio at the time. But Beyoncé Knowles, who led the vocals on the track, delivered a powerhouse performance that perfectly captured the song’s themes of suspicion and heartbreak. When Columbia finally greenlit its release, “Say My Name” quickly soared to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100—becoming Destiny’s Child’s second chart-topping single and a cultural phenomenon. The track didn’t just save the group’s momentum; it catapulted their album sales from 2 million to over 9 million , transforming The Writing’s on the Wall  into a multi-platinum blockbuster. Darkchild himself has since called “Say My Name” his most culturally impactful record.  “I hear it everywhere I go,” he said, citing the song’s lasting power in commercials, remixes, karaoke bars, and playlists across generations. The track's crisp production, unforgettable hook, and dramatic storytelling made it an anthem—and a defining moment in the evolution of 2000s R&B and pop. “Say My Name” went on to win two Grammy Awards in 2000 —for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals and Best R&B Song—further cementing its place in music history. More than two decades later, “Say My Name” remains a staple of Destiny’s Child’s legacy and a reminder that sometimes, the biggest risks lead to the greatest rewards.

Oakland, CA native  Eternal Zion (EZ)  is stepping into her moment with the release of her powerful new music video  “Greatness of God.”  Known for her raw authenticity and lyrical depth, EZ is proving that her voice is one the world needs to hear. Born and raised in Oakland, EZ began exploring music in her early teens. Growing up in a challenging environment, she used songwriting as a positive outlet—channeling her emotions and experiences into her lyrics. By her late teens, she had already cultivated a loyal following across the Bay Area, performing at local shows and inspiring fans with her message-driven music. Since then, EZ has been creating milestones in her career. She won  1st place in the Coast2Coast Live music contest after performing her single  “On a Rocket.”  That performance earned her recognition from  Dwayne Wiggins , founding member of the legendary ’90s soul/R&B group  Tony! Toni! Toné! . The opportunity opened doors and connected her with key figures in the music industry, setting the stage for her growth as a professional artist. With the release of  “Greatness of God,”  Eternal Zion continues to elevate her artistry, blending her skills as both a rapper and a sound engineer to create music that’s uplifting, inspiring, and authentic to her story. Be sure to stream  “Greatness of God”  now and follow EZ on Instagram:  @eternalzion

In the world of R&B, few stories are as inspiring—and as bold—as that of Sisqó , the flamboyant frontman of Dru Hill  who transformed from group member to global solo star. But what most fans don’t know is that Sisqó’s journey into solo stardom didn’t come with industry support. In fact, Def Jam refused to back his idea to go solo . Faced with rejection, Sisqó did what many artists only dream of: he bet on himself—and it paid off in a major way. By the late 1990s, Sisqó had already proven himself as a powerhouse performer with Dru Hill, dominating the charts with smooth harmonies and high-energy stage presence. But when he pitched the idea of launching a solo career to Def Jam , the label wasn’t convinced. They doubted whether his unique style and bold personality could translate without the group dynamic. Rather than folding under the weight of doubt, Sisqó made a move that would change his career—and the music industry—forever. With no major label budget behind him, Sisqó borrowed money  and began crafting his debut album Unleash the Dragon  on his own terms. The stakes were high. He wasn’t just risking his reputation—he was putting his finances and future on the line. But he had a vision, and he refused to let anyone else define his potential. Released in 1999 , Unleash the Dragon  became a phenomenon. Fueled by the international smash hit “Thong Song”  and the soulful ballad “Incomplete,”  the album exploded onto the charts and quickly went multi-platinum . Sisqó’s style, charisma, and unapologetic performance energy broke barriers, making him one of the most talked-about artists of the early 2000s. The same label that once doubted his solo capabilities now had to watch as Sisqó became a household name without their early support. Sisqó’s story is more than a behind-the-scenes music industry tale—it’s a blueprint for believing in yourself when nobody else will . His journey underscores a powerful lesson: sometimes, the biggest success comes when you take the biggest risk . Unleash the Dragon wasn’t just an album—it was a declaration of independence, a middle finger to industry gatekeeping, and a masterclass in artist-led vision . More than two decades later, Sisqó’s story still resonates. In a time when independent artists are reclaiming control over their careers, his bold move to self-fund and self-believe is more relevant than ever. He didn’t wait for permission—he unleashed the dragon  on his own. From label rejection to platinum plaques, Sisqó proved that when you bet on yourself, you just might win big .

Chicago has always been home to some of hip-hop’s most influential voices, and the city’s newest rising talent,  JMill , is ready to make his mark. The Chicago, IL music artist just dropped the official music video for his latest track  “Chase” , and it’s a statement piece that shows exactly why he’s an artist to watch. The video for  “Chase”  captures JMill’s energy, determination, and authentic storytelling. With sharp lyrics and a confident flow, he delivers a performance that feels both relatable and powerful—cementing his potential to become one of the next stars to rise out of Chicago’s rap scene. JMill’s style blends the grit of the city with a modern, polished sound, giving him the versatility to appeal to both underground hip-hop fans and mainstream listeners. He’s carving out his own lane and proving that he has the drive, creativity, and voice needed to take things to the next level. Keep up with JMill’s journey and future releases by following him on Instagram:  @theerealjmill

Atlanta has long been a breeding ground for hip-hop stars, and the city’s next big name just might be  Chuchi . The rising rapper has officially dropped the visuals for his new track  “Crash Out” , and it’s proof that he has the talent, style, and energy to make serious waves in the industry. The  “Crash Out”  video showcases Chuchi’s raw delivery and undeniable presence, blending street authenticity with a polished sound that feels ready for the mainstream. His unique flow and confidence set him apart from the crowd, making it clear why so many are calling him one of Atlanta’s most promising new voices. With Atlanta’s rap scene continuing to dominate the culture, Chuchi is carving out his own lane and proving that he has what it takes to become the next star to rise out of the city. Stay locked in with Chuchi’s journey and watch his growth by following him on Instagram:  @dollarbillchuchi .

When Disney released  The Lion King  in 1994, the film instantly became a global phenomenon. But behind the scenes, a young actor and singer named  Jason Weaver —with the guidance of his mother—made a decision that would forever shape his future. Weaver, who provided the singing voice for young Simba, was originally offered a flat fee for his work. At the time, the upfront money seemed attractive, especially for a young talent. But Jason’s mother, who recognized the long-term potential of the film, pushed for a different deal. Instead of taking the lump sum, they negotiated for  royalties  on the film and its music. That choice turned out to be life-changing.  The Lion King  went on to become one of Disney’s most successful projects of all time, generating billions in revenue worldwide. Thanks to that savvy decision, Weaver continues to receive royalties decades later, a testament to both his talent and his mother’s foresight. In interviews, Jason has often credited his mom for being the real strategist behind the deal, proving that sometimes wisdom and patience outweigh quick rewards. His story has since become a lesson in business acumen for young artists navigating the entertainment industry. Jason Weaver may have started out as the kid who sang for Simba, but today, he’s remembered just as much as  the kid who outsmarted Disney .

Emerging music artist  Trim  is quickly making waves in the industry, and her latest release proves exactly why she’s someone you should have on your radar. Trim recently dropped the official music video for her track  “Pretty Skin” , and it’s already capturing attention for its unique style, catchy sound, and confident delivery. With a blend of fresh visuals and Trim’s undeniable presence, the  “Pretty Skin”  video showcases her artistry and personality in a way that feels authentic and exciting. It’s clear that Trim is carving out her own lane, bringing both creativity and charisma to the forefront. As her fanbase continues to grow, Trim is showing that she’s not just another name in the music scene—she’s an artist with real potential to break through in a major way. If you’re looking for someone new to add to your playlist, Trim is definitely it. Make sure you keep up with her journey and future releases by following her on Instagram:  @itsmstrim

New Orleans artist Peblo Da BG is keeping the city’s independent hustle alive with the release of his brand-new music video, “On My Grind All Day”, presented by Oaks Way Recordings. The track embodies the relentless grind and day-to-day struggle of turning ambition into reality, with Peblo Da BG spitting authentic bars rooted in the streets but inspired by his journey to find new, legal ways to provide for himself and his family. His lyrics carry the raw energy and determination that has long defined New Orleans’ underground hip hop scene. As part of the Oaks Way Recordings, Pen and Paper Music family, Peblo Da BG continues to showcase his ability to mix street smarts with music-making, carving out a lane that is both true to his story and relatable to listeners who understand the grind. His latest release isn’t just about music—it’s about the transition, the growth, and the investment in building a career independently. With “On My Grind All Day”, Peblo Da BG reminds fans why he’s a name to pay attention to. Authentic, unfiltered, and deeply connected to his New Orleans roots, he’s proving that success comes from consistency, dedication, and staying real. Check out the official video now and tap in with Peblo Da BG on Instagram @peblo_da_bg_music .

When John Singleton’s 1993 film Poetic Justice  hit theaters, it gave the world one of the most iconic on-screen pairings in Black cinema: Janet Jackson and Tupac Shakur. But what many people don’t know is that 2Pac’s role as “Lucky” wasn’t originally his — it was written for none other than Ice Cube. At the time, Ice Cube was already a rising star in Hollywood, fresh off his breakthrough performance in Singleton’s Boyz n the Hood . Singleton reportedly had Cube in mind for the role of Lucky, envisioning him as a natural fit to star alongside Janet Jackson. But Cube turned it down. Why? According to interviews, Cube admitted he couldn’t see himself playing a character who was “all lovey-dovey” on screen at that point in his career. Known for his hard-edged persona as a member of N.W.A and later as a solo rapper, Cube wasn’t ready to take on a softer, romantic role — even one written by a director he deeply respected. Enter Tupac Shakur. The role of Lucky landed in Pac’s hands, and the rest is history. His performance brought both vulnerability and strength to the character, making him relatable and unforgettable. Alongside Janet Jackson, Tupac showed a different side of himself — one that balanced charm, sensitivity, and his natural intensity. In hindsight, Cube’s refusal opened the door for Pac to deliver one of his most celebrated roles. Poetic Justice  not only showcased Pac’s acting chops but also cemented his place as a cultural icon who could command the screen just as powerfully as he commanded the mic. So while fans might wonder what the film would’ve looked like with Ice Cube, it’s safe to say Poetic Justice  wouldn’t be the classic it is today without Tupac Shakur.

On September 11, 2001, Genelle Guzman-McMillan’s life was forever changed. At 30 years old, she was working as an administrative assistant for the Port Authority on the 64th floor of the North Tower when two hijacked planes struck the World Trade Center. When the second plane hit, Guzman-McMillan and her coworkers rushed to the stairwell. Holding hands with her friend Rosa, she made her way down until an explosion around the 13th floor knocked them off their feet. “When we reached the landing on the thirteenth floor, I let go of Rosa’s hand to yank off my heels,” Guzman-McMillan recalled. “There was another loud explosion... Suddenly, everything went dark.” Buried beneath concrete and steel, with her body crushed and her right leg shattered, Guzman-McMillan was trapped for 27 agonizing hours. The only part of her body she could move was her left hand. “I was thinking I’m going to die... I just kept begging and praying, just asking God to show me a miracle,” she said. That miracle came the next day, on September 12, when she felt someone grasp her hand. “My name is Paul. Just hang on. They’re going to get you out of there,” her rescuer told her. Doctors initially considered amputating her leg, but after several surgeries, it was saved—leaving her with a limp, but alive. Guzman-McMillan shared her story in her 2011 memoir, Angel in the Rubble: How I Survived for 27 Hours Under the World Trade Center Debris , and has been featured in multiple documentaries, including Twenty Years Later: The Women of 9/11  and 9/11: One Day in America. Today, Guzman-McMillan serves as a supervisor for the Port Authority at LaGuardia Airport and works as a motivational speaker, inspiring audiences worldwide with her powerful testimony of survival, faith, and resilience. She remains a living reminder of hope rising from tragedy.