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Rising female artist Gigi Banks  is turning heads and catching ears with her latest release, “Get It Lit.”  The track showcases her star potential, combining raw energy, undeniable talent, and the type of confidence that could easily propel her into the spotlight as one of music’s next breakout stars. With a style that blends catchy hooks and powerful delivery, Gigi Banks is proving that consistency and drive are key ingredients to success. “Get It Lit” is more than just a song—it’s a statement that she’s ready to make her mark on the industry and isn’t afraid to shine while doing it. Fans and new listeners alike can expect Gigi Banks to keep delivering hits if she continues on this path. With her charisma and determination, it’s only a matter of time before her name is mentioned among the next wave of female stars taking over the music game. Stay locked in with Gigi Banks by following her on Instagram @realgigibanks  and check out the official music video for “Get It Lit” —a track guaranteed to live up to its name.

Florida’s own Smiles Official  is proving once again why his name continues to ring louder in the southern rap scene. His latest release, “Stand On It” , has the streets buzzing and solidifies his reputation as one of the rising forces in hip-hop. Known for his raw delivery, street authenticity, and undeniable energy, Smiles Official has been steadily putting on for Florida and building momentum throughout the South. “Stand On It”  captures his trademark style — confident, gritty, and unapologetically real. It’s the type of record that demands respect, showing listeners that Smiles isn’t just talking the talk, he’s walking it. With every release, Smiles Official is expanding his reach and turning casual listeners into loyal fans. His ability to mix street storytelling with hard-hitting production makes him stand out in today’s competitive rap scene. If you haven’t already, make sure to follow him on Instagram @smilesofficial  and check out “Stand On It” . This is only the beginning for Smiles Official — the buzz is growing, and he’s proving that he’s here to stay.

Bam DaDoll is quickly proving herself to be a name you need to remember. With her latest release, “You Getting Thick” , the rising star has the internet buzzing and fans vibing to her infectious energy. The track has all the elements of a hit — catchy, bold, and full of confidence — solidifying Bam DaDoll as one of the next big female artists to watch. Her style blends charisma with raw talent, creating music that resonates with both the streets and the mainstream. “You Getting Thick” is more than just a single; it’s a statement that Bam DaDoll is here to claim her spot in the game. The momentum she’s building with this release has us convinced that she’s only scratching the surface of her potential. If you’re not already tapped in, now is the time to get familiar. Keep Bam DaDoll on your radar because her rise is inevitable. Follow her journey on Instagram @bamdadoll_  and check out her latest release, “You Getting Thick” , now.

Mobile, Alabama has been a hotbed for rising talent in the South, and one name that continues to stand out is B$C Ziggy . Known for his raw energy and authentic Southern sound, Ziggy has been consistently building his buzz over the past few years. Now, he’s back with a brand-new music video for his single “Tonight” —and the streets are already talking. The visual for “Tonight”  captures Ziggy’s charisma and hunger as an artist, solidifying why he’s quickly becoming one of the most talked-about names in his city. His ability to connect with listeners through both storytelling and hard-hitting delivery has made him a favorite among fans in Mobile and beyond. As his reputation continues to grow, B$C Ziggy proves that he’s more than just a local artist—he’s a rising Southern voice ready to break through on a larger scale. With his consistency, undeniable talent, and strong presence, it’s clear Ziggy is carving out his own lane in the rap game. Be sure to watch the official video for “Tonight”  and tap in with B$C Ziggy on Instagram @bsc_ziggy  to stay updated on his journey.

When hip hop fans think of the Southern anthem “Wipe Me Down,”  most recall Boosie Badazz and Webbie — but there’s another key voice behind the record that helped make it a timeless hit: Foxx. Jonathan Reed, better known by his stage name Foxx , was born on June 6, 1983, and hails from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Signed to the city’s powerhouse label Trill Entertainment , Foxx carved out his own lane in the mid-2000s Southern rap wave. His breakout came with “Wipe Me Down,”  a collaboration with label mates Lil Boosie and Webbie, that went on to become a cultural staple across clubs, parties, and college campuses nationwide. In 2007, Foxx dropped his debut album Street Gossip , showcasing his gritty yet charismatic delivery, which resonated with fans of Baton Rouge’s raw street rap scene. While the spotlight often shined brightest on Boosie and Webbie, Foxx’s contributions to the Trill legacy and to “Wipe Me Down”  in particular remain undeniable. Despite not receiving the same mainstream recognition as some of his label counterparts, Foxx’s work represents an essential chapter in Baton Rouge hip hop history. Today, he continues to connect with fans and share his journey through social media. Follow Foxx on Instagram @foxxamilliyone3  and revisit the voice that helped bring one of hip hop’s most iconic anthems to life.

On June 1, 1998, professional wrestling lost one of its most beloved and charismatic stars. Sylvester Ritter , better known to the world as the Junkyard Dog (JYD) , tragically passed away at just 45 years old in a car accident near Forest, Mississippi. What made his death even more heartbreaking was the timing—he was returning home from one of the proudest moments of his life: his daughter LaToya Ritter’s high school graduation . According to reports, Ritter fell asleep at the wheel on Interstate 20. His car rolled three times after veering off the road, ending a life that had inspired countless fans both inside and outside the wrestling ring. Born on December 13, 1952, in North Carolina, Sylvester Ritter excelled as a student-athlete. He played football at Fayetteville State University , earning All-American honorable mentions before graduating in 1975 with a political science degree. In 1976, he briefly signed with the Green Bay Packers before a knee injury ended his NFL dreams. Instead of football glory, Ritter turned to professional wrestling in 1977. He worked across the United States, Germany, and Canada—where he wrestled for Stu Hart’s Stampede Wrestling as “Big Daddy Ritter”—before settling into Mid-South Wrestling . It was there that booker “Cowboy” Bill Watts  gave him the now-iconic moniker: Junkyard Dog , inspired by Jim Croce’s song “Bad, Bad Leroy Brown.” With his signature dog collar, long chain, and infectious charisma, JYD quickly became the face of Mid-South Wrestling. Fans adored him for his strength, his larger-than-life personality, and his relatability. His devastating powerslam, known as the “ Thump ,” became a fan-favorite finisher. JYD’s popularity skyrocketed in the 1980s. He regularly headlined sold-out shows, including the Louisiana Superdome, and became the first Black wrestler to headline a major wrestling promotion in an era where African American wrestlers were often relegated to supporting roles. In fact, a survey conducted among New Orleans schoolchildren in the early 1980s revealed that JYD was the athlete they most wanted to meet—beating out local sports legends like Archie Manning and “Pistol” Pete Maravich. In 1984, JYD joined the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) , where he continued his meteoric rise. He competed at the inaugural WrestleMania  in 1985, won The Wrestling Classic  tournament later that year, and feuded with legends like Ted DiBiase, Harley Race, and The Funk Brothers. His ring entrances, often set to Queen’s “Another One Bites the Dust”  or George Clinton’s “Atomic Dog” , made him a fan favorite across the country. Even after his WWF run, JYD continued wrestling in WCW and various independent promotions, where he mentored younger talent—including future WWE star Rodney Mack . JYD’s sudden passing in 1998 left the wrestling world stunned. A man who had dedicated his career to entertaining and inspiring fans was gone far too soon. Yet, his impact endured. In 2004, Sylvester Ritter was posthumously inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame , forever enshrining his contributions to the sport. WWE author Brian Shields  described him as “one of the most electrifying and charismatic wrestlers in the country, particularly during his peak in the early 1980s.” To this day, JYD’s memory lives on in the hearts of wrestling fans who remember not only his power and energy in the ring but also his ability to connect with people in a deeply personal way. What was meant to be the happiest day of his life—celebrating his daughter’s graduation—ended in tragedy. But Junkyard Dog’s story remains one of perseverance, trailblazing, and unforgettable charisma.

In a world where overproduction often overshadows authenticity, Jastin Martin  is redefining what it means to make music from the heart. The Houston-born singer-songwriter and producer has been captivating audiences with her minimalist trap-soul sound —a style that feels as intimate and unfiltered as the bedroom where she writes and records most of her music. A self-taught creative, Martin has been making music since the age of nine, turning everyday emotions into slippery beats, sharp lyrics, and silvery guitar riffs. Her work ethic is relentless—rarely letting a day go by without creating something new. From her days at Grambling State University  to Houston’s open mic circuit, Martin’s journey has been one of steady grind and fearless vulnerability, ultimately landing her a spot on the Def Jam roster . Her breakout singles, “Again”  and “Reassurance,”  introduced listeners to her signature mix of soft-spoken sultriness and hard-hitting honesty . Those tracks struck a chord online, helping her build a loyal fanbase drawn to her hushed confessions and deeply relatable storytelling. Now, Jastin Martin is preparing for her biggest moment yet—her debut album, Miss Me Yet?  The project promises a collection of fresh songs that showcase her vulnerability, versatility, and growth as both an artist and a person. Though she remains fiercely independent in her process, Martin has also begun collaborating with producers she once admired from afar—some of whom have credits on her upcoming work. Her creative process is organic and raw: writing lyrics in the park, experimenting with melodies on her rooftop, or crafting beats from the solitude of her bedroom. As Martin herself puts it, “If I’m gonna give something of myself, I might as well give all of it.” With a unique sound, fearless authenticity, and undeniable work ethic, Jastin Martin is quickly becoming one of the most exciting new voices in R&B and trap-soul. Follow her journey on Instagram @jastinmartin .

David Le Chaine Hollister, born on August 17, 1968, in Chicago, Illinois, is a renowned American singer who gained fame in the 1990s as a member of the R&B group Blackstreet. After his success with Blackstreet, Hollister launched a solo career that further solidified his place in the music industry. Hollister is best known for his 2000 gold-certified album, "Chicago '85... The Movie," which featured the hit singles "One Woman Man" and "Take Care of Home." This album showcased his smooth vocal style and storytelling ability, earning him widespread acclaim and commercial success. In addition to his solo work, Hollister made notable contributions to the music scene by collaborating with other artists. He was featured on 2Pac's hit singles "Brenda's Got a Baby" and "Keep Ya Head Up," further demonstrating his versatility and appeal across different musical genres. Hollister also joined the band United Tenors, where he continued to showcase his vocal talent alongside other accomplished singers. His journey from being part of a celebrated R&B group to establishing a successful solo career highlights his enduring talent and adaptability in the music industry.

Atlanta has long been the heartbeat of Hip-Hop, and the South Side continues to produce talent that turns heads and sets trends. Rising rapper Yung M0tion  is the latest to step into the spotlight, and his new single “My Wrist”  has the streets buzzing. With his raw energy, undeniable charisma, and street-rooted authenticity, Yung M0tion is quickly making a name for himself in Atlanta’s competitive rap scene. “My Wrist”  captures his signature style—hard-hitting flows, catchy wordplay, and a confidence that proves he’s here to stay. The single showcases not only his skill as a rapper but also his ability to connect with listeners who know the hustle and ambition it takes to rise from the bottom. Yung M0tion’s sound represents South Side Atlanta to the fullest, keeping true to his city’s DNA while carving out his own lane. Fans and newcomers alike are already calling him one to watch, and the momentum behind “My Wrist”  is proof that Yung M0tion is only getting started. Be sure to tap in with Yung M0tion and stream “My Wrist”  now. Stay connected with his journey by following him on Instagram @yungm0tion_y5 .

Melvin "Magoo" Barcliff, renowned for his pivotal role in shaping hip-hop as one-half of the dynamic duo Timbaland and Magoo, has tragically passed away. The Virginia Chief Medical Examiner confirmed this heartbreaking news on Monday, although the cause of his untimely demise remains undisclosed. Magoo, a luminary in the rap world, was 50 years old at the time of his passing. Magoo's musical journey began in his hometown of Norfolk, Virginia, where he crossed paths with Timbaland during their teenage years. Together, they forged a formidable partnership, with Magoo bringing his raw talent to the table despite his initial experiences covering songs by Ralph Tresvant and New Edition in local talent shows. Their collaboration burgeoned into a legendary hip-hop alliance, marking them as pioneers within Virginia's burgeoning rap scene. With contributions from influential figures like the Neptunes, Clipse, and Missy Elliot—whom Magoo famously introduced to Timbaland—their influence transcended regional boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. During the early 90s, Timbaland and Magoo also ventured into music under the moniker Surrounded by Idiots (SBI), where they collaborated with Pharrell Williams, whose verses graced numerous deep cuts that have since gained widespread recognition online. Their musical journey reached new heights after signing to Blackground Records, where they produced their most commercially successful single to date, "Up Jumps Da Boogie" in 1997. Featuring Aaliyah and Missy Elliot, the track soared to No. 12 on Billboard's Hot 100 chart, solidifying their status as hip-hop heavyweights. Magoo and Timbaland's collaborative efforts continued to resonate with audiences, as evidenced by the success of their subsequent albums, including "Welcome to Our World" (1997), "Indecent Proposal" (2001), and "Under Construction, Part II" (2003). Despite their triumphs, Magoo ultimately chose not to pursue music further following Timbaland's solo endeavors. In an interview with Billboard, he candidly expressed his reluctance to embark on a solo career, emphasizing the profound friendship and partnership he shared with Timbaland. While Magoo's musical journey may have reached its conclusion, his legacy as a pioneering figure in hip-hop endures. His contributions to the genre, alongside Timbaland, have left an indelible imprint on the rap landscape, shaping the sound and style of generations to come. As the hip-hop community mourns the loss of a true visionary, Magoo's spirit lives on through his timeless music and enduring impact on the culture he helped shape.

Toronto has long been a breeding ground for talent, and among its rising stars is singer/songwriter Yarah , who has just released her latest single, “Foot in the Door.”  Known for her ability to blend soulful melodies with the raw essence of her city, Yarah is quickly carving out her place in the music scene. While Toronto is often described as cold and dark, Yarah brings warmth and brightness to her sound. Her music explores themes of love, lust, and desire , each track pulling from personal experiences that have shaped her artistry. With “Foot in the Door,”  she not only showcases her vocal range and lyrical depth but also gives listeners a glimpse into the vulnerability and strength behind her journey. Emerging in a competitive city with a thriving music culture, Yarah stands out by balancing modern R&B influences with storytelling rooted in authenticity. Her latest release is a testament to her ability to connect with audiences on a deeper level, reminding listeners why Toronto remains a hub for musical innovation. Stream “Foot in the Door”  on all platforms and keep up with Yarah’s journey by following her on Instagram @yarah .

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! . 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. 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 . 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 .