#NOLAZINE - Few artists in hip-hop history possessed the raw energy, passion, and intensity that DMX brought to every record he touched. Whether he was barking on a track, delivering emotional lyrics, or commanding a stage, DMX had a presence that could not be ignored. That's why many fans were surprised to hear stories about legendary music executive and producer Irv Gotti initially having concerns about X's energy on one of his biggest records, "What's My Name?" The song, released in 1999 as the lead single from DMX's third studio album, ...And Then There Was X, would go on to become one of the standout records of his career. Produced by Self Service and co-produced by Irv Gotti, the track showcased everything fans loved about DMX—his aggressive delivery, larger-than-life personality, and undeniable charisma. However, according to stories that have surfaced over the years, DMX wasn't exactly happy when he learned that Irv Gotti had reservations about his approach and energy during the creation of the record. For a rapper who built his entire career on being unapologetically himself, hearing criticism about the very thing that made him unique didn't sit well. Anyone who followed DMX throughout his career knows that he never backed down from expressing how he felt. X was known for being brutally honest, whether he was speaking in interviews, on stage, or directly to people within the music industry. If he felt disrespected or misunderstood, he wasn't the type to stay quiet. What made DMX special was that his energy wasn't manufactured. It wasn't created by a marketing team or designed to fit radio trends. His intensity came from real-life experiences, pain, struggles, and triumphs. That authenticity became the foundation of his success and helped separate him from many artists of his era. Ironically, the same energy that some may have questioned early on became one of the biggest reasons fans connected with him. Songs like "What's My Name?" didn't just sound different—they felt different. When DMX barked into a microphone, listeners believed every word. His performances carried an emotional weight that few rappers could match. Despite any disagreements they may have had, the relationship between DMX and Irv Gotti played a major role in hip-hop history. Gotti was instrumental in helping bring DMX to Def Jam and was one of the executives who believed in his potential when many others weren't fully convinced. Industry accounts have credited Gotti with pushing hard for DMX's success during the late 1990s. Still, DMX was never afraid to challenge people around him—even those who helped him. That was simply who he was. He demanded respect, trusted his instincts, and stood firmly behind his artistic vision. Looking back today, it's hard to imagine "What's My Name?" without the same energy that made DMX a superstar. The record became a fan favorite and remains one of the most recognizable songs in his catalog. What some may have viewed as too intense ultimately became one of the defining characteristics that made DMX a legend. Sometimes the very thing that people criticize is the exact thing that makes an artist unforgettable. For DMX, that energy wasn't a weakness—it was his superpower. More than two decades later, fans still celebrate his music, his authenticity, and the passion he brought to every performance. And if history has proven anything, it's that DMX's energy wasn't the problem. It was the reason the world knew exactly who he was.

#NOLAZINE - Before Usher became one of the most successful R&B artists of all time, his career was hanging by a thread. In the mid-1990s, long before sold-out arenas and diamond plaques, Usher was on the verge of being dropped by LaFace Records — a reality few fans would ever imagine today. Usher released his self-titled debut album in 1994 at just 15 years old. Despite strong vocals and industry support, the album failed to make a major impact commercially. At the time, LaFace Records, led by L.A. Reid and Babyface, was under pressure to deliver hits, and Usher was still struggling to find a clear musical identity. Internally, the label questioned whether the young singer could truly break through in a competitive R&B landscape. With his future uncertain, Usher was given what many consider a last chance to prove himself. That moment came when he connected with Jermaine Dupri, who would become a key architect of his sound and career. Dupri understood how to balance Usher’s vocal ability with a street-leaning, youthful edge that resonated with late-’90s audiences. The result was My Way, released in 1997 — an album that changed everything. Powered by hits like “You Make Me Wanna…,” “Nice & Slow,” and “My Way,” the project catapulted Usher into superstardom. The album went multi-platinum, dominated radio, and established Usher as the new face of male R&B. More importantly, it saved his career. My Way didn’t just deliver hits; it defined an era. Usher’s confident persona, emotional vulnerability, and undeniable star power finally came together, proving LaFace’s doubts wrong and setting the stage for a legendary run that would include 8701, Confessions, and beyond. Looking back, Usher’s near-drop from LaFace Records serves as a powerful reminder that timing, growth, and the right creative partnerships can change everything. What once looked like the end of the road became the starting point for one of the greatest careers in R&B history.

#NOLAZINE - Faith Evans has always been celebrated for her soulful delivery and heartfelt songwriting, but one of her most emotional records carries a surprising backstory. Her 2001 song “I Love You” was actually co-written by Jennifer Lopez and was originally intended for Lopez’s sophomore album, J.LO. At the time, Jennifer Lopez was transitioning from movie star to full-fledged pop and R&B powerhouse. As she worked on J.LO, she collaborated with a wide range of writers and producers, contributing creatively to several songs behind the scenes. “I Love You” was one of those records—written with Lopez in mind and shaped around themes of vulnerability, devotion, and emotional honesty that fit her artistic direction during that era. However, the song ultimately found a different home. Faith Evans, fresh off personal and professional growth, brought the track to life in her own way. With her signature gospel-rooted vocals and raw emotion, Faith transformed “I Love You” into a deeply personal ballad that resonated with listeners on a different level. Her version felt intimate, mature, and reflective—qualities that aligned perfectly with her artistic identity at the time. The song became a standout moment in Faith Evans’ catalog, proving how the right voice can redefine a record’s destiny. While many fans associate “I Love You” solely with Faith, knowing that Jennifer Lopez helped co-write it and initially planned to record it adds another layer of intrigue to its legacy. This behind-the-scenes story is a reminder of how fluid the music industry can be. Songs often travel unexpected paths before reaching the artist who truly makes them timeless. In this case, what began as a J.Lo album cut evolved into one of Faith Evans’ most memorable performances—showing that sometimes, music finds exactly where it belongs.

#NOLAZINE - When most people think about enjoying an authentic Philly cheesesteak, they immediately think they need to travel all the way to Philadelphia. However, A Real Philly Jawn is bringing that same bold flavor and cheesesteak experience directly to the New Orleans area. Located at 7007 Saint Claude Avenue, A Real Philly Jawn offers a delicious variety of cheesesteaks that can leave you speechless after the first bite. From the flavorful meat and melted cheese to the fresh toppings and perfectly prepared bread, every part of the sandwich comes together to create a satisfying meal. Here at Nolazine, we decided to take the ride and find out what all the hype was about. We are happy to say that A Real Philly Jawn did not disappoint us at all. The food was flavorful, filling, and worth the trip. What makes this restaurant stand out is its variety. Customers can choose from different cheesesteak options depending on their tastes, making it a great destination for anyone looking to experience something beyond an ordinary sandwich. A Real Philly Jawn proves that you do not have to book a flight to Philadelphia to enjoy a good cheesesteak. Authentic Philly flavor can be found right here in the New Orleans area. If you are a cheesesteak lover—or simply looking for your next great meal—we recommend taking the ride and trying A Real Philly Jawn for yourself. Visit A Real Philly Jawn at 7007 Saint Claude Avenue and follow @arealphillyjawn on Instagram to see the menu, food selections, and latest updates.

#NOLAZINE - One of the most iconic hip-hop tracks of the late 1990s, “You Got Me” by The Roots, took home a Grammy Award, yet not everyone who contributed to the song received recognition. Among those overlooked was Eve, the Newark-born rapper who helped make the hit unforgettable with her distinctive flow and commanding presence on the track. Released in 1999, “You Got Me” featured The Roots, Eve, and Erykah Badu on vocals, blending live instrumentation, sharp lyricism, and soulful hooks—a combination that set it apart in the hip-hop and R&B landscape of the time. The song’s narrative of love, loyalty, and trust resonated with fans and critics alike, earning The Roots widespread acclaim and ultimately a Grammy for Best Rap Performance by a Duo or Group in 2000. Despite her vital contribution, Eve was never officially credited or awarded alongside The Roots and Badu. The omission sparked conversations about how guest artists and collaborators—especially women in hip-hop—were often overlooked in award recognitions, even when their performances were integral to a track’s success. Eve, already carving out her own path as a formidable rapper with hits like “Let Me Blow Ya Mind”, didn’t publicly dwell on the snub, instead continuing to focus on building her legacy in music, film, and entrepreneurship. Yet for fans and music historians, her absence on the Grammy certificate remains a glaring oversight. “You Got Me” remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its lyrical brilliance, live instrumentation, and collaborative energy. While Eve didn’t receive the formal award, her contribution to the track is undeniable, proving that sometimes impact outweighs official recognition, and her voice on that song continues to inspire fans decades later. Follow Eve’s journey through music and culture, and remember her as one of the voices that helped define a generation of hip-hop.

#NOLAZINE - Richard Pryor, one of the most groundbreaking and influential comedians of all time, lived a life filled with both genius and chaos. While he broke barriers in comedy with his raw honesty and unfiltered reflections on race, class, and life in America, his personal struggles with drug addiction became just as legendary as his talent. Among the most startling accounts of his drug use came from actress Pam Grier, his girlfriend during the 1970s. Pryor and Grier were one of Hollywood’s power couples for a time. Both were at the height of their careers—Pryor dominating comedy stages and Grier redefining Black cinema as the queen of blaxploitation films. Yet behind the glamour, Pryor’s escalating cocaine habit was straining their relationship. According to Grier, the extent of his use became frighteningly clear after a visit to her doctor. She later revealed that her gynecologist found traces of cocaine in her cervix during a routine exam. The shocking discovery suggested Pryor’s drug use was so severe that it was being transmitted during intimacy. Pryor’s cocaine addiction was notorious. He openly discussed his use in his stand-up, often turning painful experiences into comedy. His battles led to erratic behavior, health scares, and even his infamous near-death incident in 1980 when he set himself on fire while freebasing cocaine. For Grier, the revelation about her own health was a breaking point. She reportedly confronted Pryor, making it clear how his addiction wasn’t only destroying him but also putting others at risk. Their relationship eventually unraveled, though she remained one of the few who spoke candidly about the darker side of Pryor’s genius. Richard Pryor’s story is often told as a cautionary tale: a man whose brilliance on stage was matched only by the depth of his struggles off it. The episode with Pam Grier underscores how his addiction reached beyond himself, affecting even those closest to him in shocking, invasive ways. Despite the chaos, Pryor’s legacy as a comedy icon endures. His willingness to bare his soul, even about his addictions, changed the art of stand-up forever. But his life remains a stark reminder of how devastating substance abuse can be—no matter how bright the star.

#NOLAZINE - The story of Fee Banks is one of resilience, hustle, and evolution. Known today as a powerhouse in the music industry, Fee Banks’ journey began in the gritty trenches of hip-hop—DJing for Lil Wayne and playing a key role in the legendary Sqad Up crew. From those early days of being featured on music, hitting the road, and managing the chaos of tour life, Fee Banks has steadily carved out a lane for himself that goes far beyond the turntables. With more than a decade in the game, Fee transitioned into artist management and quickly proved that he had both the vision and business acumen to help shape stars. His earliest management credits include working with Kevin Gates and Flow, but it was his work with NBA YoungBoy that truly cemented his status as a force. Fee was instrumental in securing YoungBoy's first platinum hit, the breakout single “Untouchable,” which helped catapult the young rapper to national fame. Today, Fee Banks stands tall as the CEO of Good Money Global, a label that's not only a breeding ground for new talent but also a respected name in the industry. His latest success story is Mexican OT, an artist quickly gaining momentum under Fee’s guidance. With a joint venture with Interscope Records in place, Fee is proving he's not just managing careers—he’s building empires. Fee Banks’ track record speaks volumes. From the mixtape days with Wayne to the platinum plaques with YoungBoy, and now guiding the new generation, he’s stayed ten toes down and ahead of the curve. His influence is felt across multiple levels of the music industry, making him not just a manager but a mogul in the making. Follow @feebanks_ on Instagram and keep your eyes on Good Money Global—because when Fee Banks is involved, greatness is never far behind.

#NOLAZINE - James Rosemond, better known in the entertainment world as Jimmy Henchman, once stood among hip-hop’s most influential and enigmatic figures. A Brooklyn-bred music executive, entrepreneur, and activist, Rosemond climbed from the rough streets of Flatbush to rub shoulders with industry giants, athletes, and political leaders. But what began as an inspiring come-up story quickly spiraled into one of the most cautionary tales in hip-hop history—darkened by drug trafficking, violence, and one of rap’s most notorious unsolved mysteries. Born in 1965 in Harlem, Rosemond was raised by a single mother after his parents’ divorce. Determined to make something of himself, he leaned into New York City’s cultural ecosystem and quickly earned a reputation as a connector. In 1992, he co-founded the "How Can I Be Down" music conference—an event that became a launchpad for new talent and a networking hub for rising executives. His vision extended beyond music. In 2002, Rosemond helped negotiate the Lennox Lewis vs. Mike Tyson heavyweight boxing match, securing a deal that split the purse evenly after one million pay-per-view buys—a testament to his negotiation savvy and reach. Through his company Henchmen Entertainment, later renamed Czar Entertainment, Rosemond built a powerhouse management roster including The Game, Brandy, and Sean Kingston. He moved through the industry with calculated finesse, often aligning himself with social justice causes. Alongside Russell Simmons, he lobbied for the reform of New York’s Rockefeller Drug Laws, positioning himself as both businessman and activist. But behind the executive polish lay darker chapters. In one of hip-hop’s most explosive revelations, Rosemond allegedly confessed during a 2011 proffer session—a legal negotiation in which statements are protected from prosecution—that he played a role in the 1994 ambush and shooting of Tupac Shakur at Quad Studios in New York. According to journalist Chuck Philips of the Village Voice, court filings referred to the “defendant’s own admission,” though no official transcript has ever been released. The incident left Tupac shot five times and robbed, deepening the East Coast vs. West Coast beef that would later claim the lives of both Tupac Shakur and The Notorious B.I.G. Tupac had long suspected Rosemond's involvement, famously calling him out by name on his track "Against All Odds": “And did I mention / Promised a payback, Jimmy Henchman?” The alleged confession further clouded Rosemond’s legacy and permanently tethered him to one of rap’s darkest turning points. In 2010, Rosemond’s empire began to unravel. He was arrested and charged with running a multimillion-dollar cocaine distribution network, using music industry ties to funnel drugs coast to coast. Charges included money laundering, witness tampering, and intimidation. In 2012, he was convicted and sentenced to life in prison. But the legal trouble didn’t stop there. In a separate case, Rosemond was convicted of orchestrating the murder of Lowell “Lodi Mack” Fletcher, an associate of rapper 50 Cent. The hit was allegedly payback for a previous assault on Rosemond’s son. After multiple trials, he was handed a second life sentence—this time for murder-for-hire. The duality of Jimmy Henchman continues to spark debate. Was he a visionary entrepreneur and community advocate who was unfairly targeted, or a power-hungry kingpin who blurred the lines between legitimate business and street crime? At one point, he stood as the embodiment of hip-hop’s rags-to-riches ethos: a man who rose from nothing to command influence in music, sports, and politics. But the very ambition that fueled his rise may have hastened his fall—alongside a desire for respect and control in both boardrooms and the streets. Now serving multiple life sentences, James “Jimmy Henchman” Rosemond’s name remains divisive. Some regard him as a fallen mogul, others as a cautionary tale. But no one can deny his impact on hip-hop culture—and the high price of power pursued without limits. In the ever-evolving story of hip-hop, Henchman's tale is a stark reminder: no matter how high you rise, the past always catches up.

#NOLAZINE - Hafree is proving that his talents extend far beyond music. The New Orleans artist has successfully transformed himself into a serial entrepreneur, community supporter, and businessman who continues to make major moves throughout the city. Here at Nolazine, we were first introduced to Hafree as a music artist in 2018. His talent and presence immediately caught our attention, but as the years passed, we began to see that Hafree was a man of many hats. While continuing to build his name and brand, he expanded his vision beyond the entertainment industry and became involved in several businesses across New Orleans. Hafree is part of Heard Dat Kitchen, a popular New Orleans restaurant located at 2520 Felicity Street. Known for its creative approach to local cuisine and authentic New Orleans flavors, Heard Dat Kitchen has become a respected destination for residents and visitors looking for a memorable meal. He is also one of the co-owners of Smersh Store, located in New Orleans’ historic French Quarter. His involvement in multiple businesses demonstrates his entrepreneurial mindset and willingness to create opportunities in his hometown. What makes Hafree’s journey even more meaningful is his commitment to giving back. He has consistently shown love and support to the youth of New Orleans by organizing annual back-to-school drives and helping provide young people with the supplies and encouragement they need to succeed. Hafree does not simply talk about supporting the community—he puts that support into action. He understands the importance of embracing the city’s youth, serving as a positive example, and showing the next generation that it is possible to turn creativity, ambition, and hard work into successful business ventures. We at Nolazine are proud of everything Hafree has accomplished. We want to give him his flowers for evolving from a talented music artist into a respected entrepreneur while continuing to invest his time and resources into the New Orleans community. Hafree’s journey is far from finished. With his passion for business, love for his city, and dedication to uplifting the youth, there is no telling what he will accomplish next. Make sure you follow @hafree__ on Instagram to keep up with his latest moves, businesses, and community work.

#NOLAZINE - R&B fans know Keyshia Cole’s breakout hit “I Should Have Cheated” as one of the most emotional and empowering songs of the 2000s — but what many don’t realize is that the song wasn’t originally written for her. In fact, it was meant for singer Nivea. “I Should Have Cheated,” released in 2005 as part of Keyshia Cole’s debut album The Way It Is, became an instant classic. The track captured the pain and frustration of being accused of infidelity in a toxic relationship — delivered through Cole’s powerful, soulful vocals that helped define her early career. However, behind the scenes, the song had a different path. It was initially intended for Nivea, who was already known for hits like “Don’t Mess with My Man” and “Laundromat.” The songwriters believed her soft yet emotional tone would fit the record perfectly. But for reasons that were never fully disclosed — possibly label decisions or creative direction — the song ended up in Keyshia Cole’s hands instead. And the rest is history. Keyshia Cole took “I Should Have Cheated” and made it her own, turning it into an anthem for women fed up with being wrongfully accused. The record became one of her signature songs, helping solidify her place as one of R&B’s most authentic voices. It’s one of those fascinating “what if” moments in music history — because while Nivea would’ve no doubt delivered a strong performance, it’s hard to imagine anyone else bringing the raw emotion and conviction that Keyshia Cole did. Sometimes, songs find the artist they were meant for — and “I Should Have Cheated” is the perfect example of that.

#NOLAZINE - The world lost a true musical icon on August 16, 2018, when Aretha Franklin passed away at the age of 76 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. Known globally as the “Queen of Soul,” Aretha Franklin’s voice, influence, and legacy remain unmatched, continuing to inspire generations of artists and music lovers years after her passing. Born on March 25, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee, and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Aretha Franklin was immersed in music from an early age. The daughter of legendary preacher C.L. Franklin, Aretha honed her powerful voice singing gospel in church, laying the foundation for a career that would redefine soul, R&B, and popular music as a whole. Aretha’s rise to superstardom came in the late 1960s with timeless hits like “Respect,” “Natural Woman,” “Chain of Fools,” and “Think.” Her music was more than just entertainment—it became the soundtrack of the Civil Rights Movement and a voice for empowerment, particularly for Black women. With every note, Aretha sang with raw emotion, strength, and authenticity, demanding respect not only in her lyrics but in her life and career. Throughout her legendary career, Aretha Franklin earned 18 Grammy Awards, sold over 75 million records worldwide, and became the first woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. Her influence crossed genres, touching gospel, jazz, pop, and soul, while her unmistakable voice set a standard few could ever reach. Despite her global fame, Aretha remained deeply connected to her roots, often returning to gospel music and staying closely tied to Detroit. Even in her later years, she continued to perform with the same passion that made her a star, leaving fans in awe every time she stepped on stage. Aretha Franklin’s death from pancreatic cancer marked the end of an era, but her spirit lives on through her music, her impact, and the countless artists she inspired. She was more than a singer—she was a cultural force, a symbol of strength, and a voice that demanded to be heard. Though she is no longer with us, the Queen of Soul will forever reign through her timeless music and unforgettable legacy.

#NOLAZINE - Whitney Houston’s 1985 smash hit “How Will I Know” is one of the most recognizable pop records of the 1980s, helping cement her status as a global superstar. However, what many fans may not know is that the song was originally written with another music icon in mind: Janet Jackson. “How Will I Know” was penned by hitmakers George Merrill and Shannon Rubicam, members of the band Boy Meets Girl. At the time, the upbeat, synth-driven track was crafted for Janet Jackson, who was in the early stages of redefining her sound before the release of her breakthrough album Control. For various reasons, the song never made it to Janet, leaving it open for another artist to bring it to life. That opportunity ultimately landed in the hands of Whitney Houston. As her label, Arista Records, searched for the perfect follow-up sound to showcase Whitney’s vocal versatility, producer Narada Michael Walden recognized the potential in “How Will I Know.” The song was reworked to better fit Whitney’s powerful yet youthful voice, blending pop, R&B, and dance elements that perfectly matched her image at the time. When released as a single from Whitney’s self-titled debut album, “How Will I Know” became an instant success. The record climbed to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986 and was heavily supported by its colorful, high-energy music video, which played in constant rotation on MTV. The song not only expanded Whitney’s crossover appeal but also helped break racial barriers on pop radio and music television. While it’s fascinating to imagine how Janet Jackson might have sounded on the track, there’s no denying that Whitney Houston made “How Will I Know” her own. The song remains one of her signature records, capturing the innocence, excitement, and emotional vulnerability of young love. Decades later, “How Will I Know” continues to be celebrated as a pop classic, a reminder of Whitney Houston’s unmatched vocal talent—and a rare behind-the-scenes story that highlights how sometimes the biggest hits find their true home in unexpected ways.