Search Results

The vibrant streets of New Orleans have long been fertile ground for hip-hop innovation, cultivating legends who shaped not just the local scene but influenced the genre on a national scale. Among these influential pioneers was Pimp Daddy—a charismatic rapper whose life was tragically cut short, yet whose contributions remain deeply embedded in the DNA of New Orleans hip-hop. Born and raised in New Orleans, Pimp Daddy emerged at a time when the city’s unique bounce sound was beginning to gain momentum. Known for blending the rhythmic pulse of bounce with the grit of gangster rap, Pimp Daddy quickly distinguished himself. His first taste of the spotlight came via Lil Slim’s “The Game is Cold,” a track released through the then-fledgling Cash Money Records. But it was his 1993 single “Got To Be Real”  on Pack Records that truly marked his breakout. The song featured a bounce-infused sample of Undisputed Truth’s “(I Know) I’m Losing You,” a nod to both New Orleans roots and West Coast influence—specifically Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre’s hit “Deep Cover.” The track was a local hit and built anticipation for his 1994 debut album, “Still Pimpin’.”  That project showcased his lyrical skill and streetwise charm, solidifying his status as one of the most promising voices in the city. More than just a rapper, Pimp Daddy was a cultural symbol. His name and image adorned walls in the form of graffiti, a testament to his connection with the streets. He was affectionately referred to by peers as one of the “original Hot Boys,”  a title that predates the later Cash Money supergroup of the same name. His style, charisma, and authenticity were emblematic of an era and movement that would go on to produce megastars like Juvenile, B.G., and Lil Wayne. On April 18, 1994 , the New Orleans hip-hop community was shaken by tragedy when Pimp Daddy was shot and killed in the Florida Projects. He was just 18 years old. The details surrounding his death have long been clouded by rumor and speculation—allegedly involving a romantic entanglement and tensions with fellow bounce artist Cheeky Blakk. The exact motives remain unclear, but the loss was deeply felt. According to close friend and collaborator Lil Slim, the aspiring artist had faced multiple personal struggles leading up to his death. Cash Money Records, recognizing both his talent and potential, paid for his funeral—a small yet telling gesture of the respect he had garnered in such a short time. Though his career lasted only a few years, Pimp Daddy's impact on New Orleans hip-hop remains immeasurable.  His fusion of bounce and gangster rap helped lay the foundation for the unique sound that defines the city’s music scene to this day. His early association with Cash Money Records places him at the genesis of one of hip-hop’s most influential dynasties. More than three decades later, Pimp Daddy’s name still resonates—among fans, artists, and historians of Southern rap. His story is a sobering reminder of both the promise and peril faced by young artists navigating fame in a turbulent environment. But it’s also a story of innovation, passion, and cultural imprint. Though gone far too soon, Pimp Daddy lives on through the music, the memories, and the legacy he helped build —an icon whose voice still echoes through the streets of New Orleans.

There’s a new name buzzing through the streets and heating up the underground rap scene — Nunu Mo’nae, and she’s making it crystal clear that she’s ready to take over. With the release of her brand-new single “Make Em Go Krazy,” Nunu is showing fans, critics, and the industry alike that she’s not here to play — she’s here to dominate. A bold blend of confidence, charisma, and raw talent, Nunu Mo’nae possesses the kind of energy that makes you stop and pay attention. Her latest single is a perfect example of what sets her apart. “Make Em Go Krazy” is more than just a song — it’s a statement. Over a hard-hitting beat, Nunu delivers slick bars and infectious hooks that showcase her unique style, effortless flow, and undeniable star power. But it’s not just about the music — Nunu Mo’nae has the beauty, the presence, and the aura of a superstar in the making. Whether she’s commanding the mic or lighting up your Instagram feed, she exudes the kind of natural star quality that can’t be taught. With a growing fan base and a sound that blends street edge with feminine flair, she’s quickly carving out her own lane in a crowded field. As more and more fans discover her sound, one thing is certain — Nunu Mo’nae is next up, and she’s coming for everything she deserves. Be part of the movement early and watch her rise. Follow her journey on Instagram: @nunumonae_ Don’t sleep — tap in now and check out “Make Em Go Krazy” on all platforms.

From the heart of Uptown New Orleans’ 12th Ward comes a voice that refuses to be boxed in — an artist who’s done more than evolve; he’s transformed. Formerly known as J Tha Hotboy, he’s now reintroduced himself to the game as Rich Hottie aka Onion Boy 28 aka Pop Brazy — a self-proclaimed 3 Headed Monster who’s ready to show the world just how deep his artistry runs. His latest release, “3 Sides 2 A Story,” is more than just a tape — it’s a full display of versatility, reinvention, and identity. Each persona represents a different energy, a different flow, and a different perspective — but together, they form a powerful trifecta of creativity that makes Rich Hottie one of the most dynamic emerging artists in the game right now. The Reinvention of J Tha Hotboy At one point, he was known simply as J Tha Hotboy — a name that carried weight, but eventually felt like a shell of what he was truly becoming. Real growth demands real change, and for Rich Hottie, that meant starting over. “I had to reinvent myself,” he says. “I cut off my hair. I had to revamp my whole image. I couldn’t just be who I was — I had to become who I really am.” That transformation birthed not just a new name, but three distinct rap personas: Rich Hottie: the polished, confident hustler with game and delivery. Onion Boy 28: the layered lyricist with gritty street tales and raw emotion. Pop Brazy: the unpredictable wildcard, full of energy and unfiltered truth. “3 Sides 2 A Story” — A Look Into Every Layer On this new tape, listeners get to experience all three sides of the artist. One minute, he’s melodic and introspective; the next, he’s delivering hard-hitting bars over heavy drums. The project showcases his ability to shape-shift through flows and emotions — all while staying true to his New Orleans roots. What makes this tape even more powerful is the authenticity behind it. This isn’t a gimmick — it’s a real-life reflection of an artist with multiple layers, multiple pasts, and multiple futures all rolled into one voice. If you haven’t tapped in yet, now’s the time. 🎧 Stream “3 Sides 2 A Story” on all platforms 📱 Follow Rich Hottie on Instagram: @rich_hottie This is more than just music — it’s a rebirth. Rich Hottie aka Onion Boy aka Pop Brazy isn’t playing by the rules — he’s rewriting them.

When Jay-Z was in the process of crafting what would become one of the most iconic tributes to New York City—his 2009 hit “Empire State of Mind”—he was nearly moments away from making a very different decision that could’ve changed the song’s legacy. According to a 2010 interview with the Miami Times , the Brooklyn rap mogul revealed that his original choice to sing the song’s unforgettable hook wasn’t Alicia Keys—it was R&B legend Mary J. Blige. Jay-Z shared that he was “just two seconds away” from calling Blige, the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul, to lay down vocals for the anthem’s chorus. Known for her gritty emotion and soulful delivery, Blige seemed like the perfect match to embody the heart and hustle of New York City. And given her long-standing musical relationship with Jay-Z, the collaboration would’ve felt organic. However, as he reflected further, Jay-Z pivoted. He decided to go in a different direction and reached out to Alicia Keys instead. That decision would prove monumental. Alicia Keys brought more than just her voice to the table. Her signature blend of soulful vocals and classical piano added an uplifting and powerful tone to the record. The result? A timeless anthem that resonated deeply with New Yorkers and fans worldwide. "Empire State of Mind" soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and became a cultural milestone—arguably one of the greatest modern odes to a city. Though Mary J. Blige didn’t end up on the record, Jay-Z’s decision didn’t come from a lack of admiration. In fact, it was the weight of Blige’s legendary status that made the choice so difficult. Still, the pairing of Jay-Z’s lyrical homage and Alicia Keys’ melodic grace became the perfect storm, solidifying “Empire State of Mind” as a career-defining moment for both artists. In hindsight, fans can only imagine how different the song might have sounded with Blige’s iconic voice—but there’s little doubt that Jay-Z made the right call. Sometimes, it just takes a bit of instinct—and a little hesitation—to strike gold.

Hailing from the streets of Covington, Louisiana, DodgeCityQ is quickly emerging as one of the most authentic voices in independent Southern hip-hop. With a raw sound and a message grounded in real life, he’s making serious noise with a string of hard-hitting singles and a growing fanbase that stretches well beyond his hometown. An independent artist in every sense, DodgeCityQ has been steadily grinding—building his name track by track. Among his standout releases are “Lifetime,” a reflective yet gritty anthem that touches on perseverance and survival, and “Everyday Thuggin,” which captures the realities of daily hustle and the weight that comes with it. His latest single, “Knock Knock,” continues that momentum, showcasing a confident delivery and Southern edge that’s impossible to ignore. The track is available on all major music platforms and continues to gain traction among fans of street-rooted, story-driven rap. What sets DodgeCityQ apart is not just his lyrical content, but his authenticity. He doesn’t chase trends—he tells his story. And that raw honesty is resonating. For those just discovering him, DodgeCityQ is not just another rapper from Louisiana—he’s a voice for his city and a symbol of what independent hustle looks like when it’s fueled by purpose. Keep an eye on his journey, because it’s just getting started. Follow him on Instagram to stay tapped in: @dodgecity_q Music streaming now on all platforms.

North Carolina’s own Jai Jemini is carving her name into the future of hip hop and R&B with the release of her latest single, “Blessings.”  More than just another emerging artist, Jai Jemini is a genre-bending force—fusing sharp lyricism, soulful vocal delivery, and cinematic storytelling into music that both moves and heals. Her newest release is a prime example of the raw talent and emotional depth that’s setting her apart. Raised in church and steeped in gospel music, Jai began her musical journey at the age of six, singing alongside the legendary Barnes Family. Her upbringing laid the foundation for a sound rooted in spirituality, emotion, and authenticity. But it was her father—who introduced her to iconic artists like Lauryn Hill, Erykah Badu, and Kanye West—who shaped her understanding of music’s power to guide, comfort, and transform. Jai Jemini doesn’t just write songs—she writes truth . From conscious rap to sensual R&B, she showcases versatility and vulnerability with each new track. Her breakout moment came with “Letter to Self,”  a deeply personal single originally written as a poem in her debut novel, The Caged Bird is Missing.  That song, a meditation on self-hatred and healing, proved that Jai’s music isn’t just entertainment—it’s therapy. Her path hasn’t been easy. After years of keeping unreleased music to herself, she finally dropped her debut album—just two days before her father passed from cancer. That release became a moment of catharsis and tribute to the man who believed in her most. Now, with “Blessings”  making waves and over half a million followers watching her rise, Jai Jemini stands on the brink of something special. Her goals are ambitious—performing at Rolling Loud, collaborating with J. Cole, sharing a stage with Beyoncé or Doja Cat—but her talent makes them feel not just possible, but inevitable. Jai Jemini is more than a name to watch—she’s a truth-teller, a chameleon, and the voice of a generation in bloom. Follow her journey on Instagram: @justjaijemini  and don’t forget to stream her powerful new single “Blessings.”

T.T.G A.E.R.O is turning up the heat with his latest release, and the streets are paying attention. The rising music artist just dropped the visuals for his new single “Above The Rim,” and it’s already making waves with fans of raw, authentic street music. Known for his high-energy delivery and unapologetic lyrics, T.T.G A.E.R.O brings intensity and grit to everything he does. “Above The Rim” is no exception—it’s a hard-hitting track that speaks to ambition, survival, and staying ten steps ahead in a world full of pressure and competition. The video captures that spirit perfectly, showcasing his presence and hunger to rise above it all. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or just getting introduced, now is the time to lock in with T.T.G A.E.R.O. His consistency and determination are setting him apart from the crowd. Follow him on Instagram @iamhim_guyaero  and stream “Above The Rim” today. This is an artist you want to keep on your radar.

Port Arthur, Texas continues to make its mark on the music scene with rising talent Whip The Rapper leading the charge. The bold and unapologetic artist has just dropped the official music video for her latest single “Pimpin,” and it's already making waves for its raw energy and Southern flair. Known for her confident delivery and streetwise lyricism, Whip The Rapper brings a fresh perspective to the rap game, repping her city with pride. “Pimpin” is a standout track that blends gritty production with her signature no-nonsense flow, capturing the essence of Southern hustle and independence. The accompanying visuals match the energy of the record—slick, bold, and authentically Texan. From the streets of Port Arthur to the lens of the camera, Whip is unapologetically herself and clearly has no plans of slowing down. Make sure to follow her on Instagram @whiptherapper  and stream the “Pimpin” music video now on all major platforms. Whip The Rapper is proof that the South still has something to say.

In the golden era of late '90s R&B, few groups made an impact as swiftly and beautifully as Divine . Formed in 1995, the all-female trio captivated audiences with powerful vocals and a classic soul sound that stood out among their peers. Best known for their 1998 chart-topping hit "Lately,"  Divine seemed destined for long-lasting success. But behind the scenes, a series of business missteps and industry pitfalls would bring their promising journey to an early end. Divine was composed of Kia Thornton , Nikki Bratcher , and Tonia Tash , three young women hailing from various parts of New York and New Jersey. Brought together by managers Nathan Garvin  and Gillian Manigat , the group’s talent was undeniable from the start. At the time of their breakout, Bratcher and Tash were just 18, while Thornton was only 17. Yet their youth didn’t stop them from delivering emotionally charged harmonies that struck a chord with R&B lovers around the world. Their debut single “Lately”  skyrocketed up the charts, eventually hitting No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 . With its timeless melody and heartfelt lyrics, the track became an anthem for love and longing in the late '90s. Despite their musical chemistry and sudden fame, Divine’s story serves as a cautionary tale of what happens when artistry isn’t matched with strategic business decisions. Most notably, the group failed to trademark their name , a crucial step for long-term brand protection in the music industry. This oversight left them vulnerable and without full control over their brand identity. Additionally, their record label went bankrupt , pulling the rug out from under what could have been a flourishing career. Without strong business infrastructure or ownership of their group name, Divine had little legal or financial recourse. They released a cover of George Michael’s “One More Try” , but it didn’t receive the same acclaim as “Lately.” Soon after, the group disbanded in 2000—just five years after forming and two years after their biggest hit. Though Divine’s career was short-lived, their influence is still felt in the genre. “Lately” remains a nostalgic gem for many who grew up during that era, and it’s a reminder of the incredible voices and potential that the group possessed. Their story is also a powerful reminder of how important ownership, trademarks, and proper management  are for artists—especially young, emerging ones. Divine had the talent to stand among the greats, but without the proper support and protection, even the brightest stars can fade far too soon. While the members have kept relatively low profiles in the years since Divine’s disbandment, fans continue to celebrate the legacy they left behind. Kia Thornton, in particular, has continued to sing and was even a contestant on American Idol . Though Divine as a group may be no more, their music continues to live on in playlists and R&B history. Divine may not have gotten the credit or longevity they deserved, but their contribution to R&B is undeniable.  Their story is one of talent, missed opportunities, and the ever-changing tides of the music industry.

Back like he never left, New Orleans-raised and Dallas-based artist Lamar Adot Thomas  is revving up the summer with his latest single “Krackin”  — a high-octane release loaded with bounce, lyricism, and undeniable confidence. Dropping July 30, 2025, the track is a bold statement piece from the 9th Ward native who continues to carry the torch for lyrical excellence and Southern authenticity. Produced by rising talents Nick B.  and Loop288 , “Krackin” thrives on rapid-fire metaphors, infectious rhythm shifts, and triple entendres that showcase Lamar’s sharp pen and charismatic delivery. The synergy between the beatmakers and the emcee is electric, providing a soundscape that feels both gritty and elevated. “This one’s all about tempo and texture — we matched the rhythm of the streets with storytelling and confidence,”  says Lamar Adot Thomas. Known for his deep storytelling and wordplay, Adot brings all of that and more to the table on “Krackin.” The single follows the momentum of his well-received May 2025 album “A Day Off Work” , and fans will recognize his signature style — only this time, it’s turned up a notch. The single’s cover art, full of personality and humor, shows Lamar joyriding through Dallas, while a behind-the-scenes photo offers fans a peek into the creative process with producers Nick B. and Loop288 in the studio. But beyond the music, Lamar Adot Thomas is a legacy artist . Hailing from the 9th Ward of New Orleans , he’s released over 10 albums and proudly upholds the lyrical tradition of greats like Mr. Magic . His story, which includes surviving Hurricane Katrina  and being adopted, adds a deeper layer of authenticity to his work — it’s not just music, it’s a lived experience. With “Krackin” , Lamar proves once again why he’s not just a rapper, but a force. As he continues to put on for both New Orleans and Dallas, it’s clear that his pen, presence, and passion are as sharp as ever . “Krackin” 🎧 Available Everywhere July 30, 2025🎙️ Produced by Nick B. & Loop288 Follow Lamar Adot Thomas: 📸 Instagram: @lamaradotthomas ▶️ YouTube: Lamar Adot Thomas Tap in — the 9th Ward is Krackin

R&B fans, get ready—Nyah Grace is back and she’s raised the bar. The Manchester-by-way-of-Oregon soul singer has just dropped her latest single titled “Down” , a deeply moving and confident new offering from her album, Divinely Devoted . And if this track is any indication, we’re witnessing an artist fully stepping into her own. It’s been five years since Grace’s ballad-heavy debut turned heads with its tender emotion and raw promise. Now, with “Down,” she delivers a sound that’s smoky, sultry, and searingly honest—an evolved version of herself that feels both new and deeply rooted in soul tradition. Her vocals glide effortlessly over the slick, emotionally textured production, speaking directly to listeners who crave realness in their R&B. The single was co-written and produced by the gifted De’Jour Thomas , known for his work with artists like Chlöe, Fousheé, and Monaleo. Together, Grace and Thomas create a bold new sonic world that’s rich in atmosphere and full of storytelling power. “Down” is a strong indicator that Nyah Grace is not just building on past potential—she’s reshaping the conversation. With a personalized brand of confessional R&B that blends sassy undertones with deep emotional resonance, she’s carving out her lane in today’s ever-evolving R&B landscape. Whether you’ve been following her since the beginning or you’re just discovering her now, there’s no better time to get familiar. Follow Nyah Grace on Instagram @nyahgraceee  and stream “Down”  on all major platforms today.

When you talk about New Orleans rap royalty, you can't forget the influence of the Magnolia Projects — a neighborhood that birthed some of the city’s most iconic names. But one name that deserves more recognition is Tokey Hefner . Hailing straight out of the legendary Magnolia Projects , Tokey has been holding it down since his early days. More than just a neighborhood staple, he’s an affiliate of the famed Cash Money Records , and he’s been steadily feeding the streets with consistent music for years. Whether it’s gritty street tales or high-energy bangers, Tokey has built a catalog that speaks for itself. Despite not always being in the spotlight, Tokey Hefner has carved out a loyal fanbase , stretching from the streets of New Orleans to the city of Atlanta. His grind is undeniable, and his independent hustle is starting to catch fire  in a major way. While others chase trends, Tokey stays true to the culture, dropping music that reflects his environment, struggles, and victories. Let’s be real — Tokey doesn’t always get the credit he deserves , but that stops today. We see the work. We hear the bars. And we recognize the movement. If you’re not tapped in yet, now’s the time. You can stream Tokey Hefner’s latest releases on all major platforms , and stay up to date by following him on Instagram at @tokeyhefner . New Orleans has another legend in the making — and his name is Tokey Hefner.