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In the heart of New Orleans, where culture, struggle, and resilience meet on every corner, Kingg Tokyo  stood tall as a voice of the streets. Born Javon Johnigan , he was more than just another rapper trying to make it out—he was a product of the infamous Calliope Projects , and he proudly carried that legacy on his back until his untimely death. Kingg Tokyo came up during a vibrant yet volatile era in the New Orleans rap scene. He earned his stripes rapping in the Calliope and quickly gained recognition for his raw authenticity, lyrical storytelling, and undeniable presence. His early rise was fueled by his affiliation with Calliope Var's “Hood Star Entertainment,”  where he collaborated alongside talents like Calliope Bub  and others who were also repping the streets they came from. But even in a talented crew, Tokyo stood out . Whether on the block or behind the mic, Tokyo represented his hood with pride. His bars reflected the day-to-day realities of life in the Calliope—survival, loyalty, pain, and ambition. He wasn’t chasing mainstream fame. He was a voice for the voiceless, giving listeners an unfiltered look into the world that shaped him. Tragically, on September 3, 2016 , Kingg Tokyo was shot and killed , silencing a rising talent and shaking the community he fought so hard to uplift. His death was a painful reminder of the violence that too often cuts short the lives of young Black men with promise. But his impact didn’t die with him. To this day, Kingg Tokyo is remembered not only as a rapper but as a symbol of Calliope pride —a hometown hero who never turned his back on where he came from. His legacy lives on through his music, the people who knew him, and the fans who still bump his tracks in remembrance. Long live Kingg Tokyo.  His story is one of talent, loyalty, and a life that burned bright—even if it ended too soon.

Mississippi has a new rising star in its music scene—and her name is AnaDaBratt . Making waves with her unapologetic Southern pride and undeniable talent, AnaDaBratt is quickly becoming a name to know in the world of hip-hop and Southern rap. Her latest single, “Im So Mississippi,”  is more than just a song—it’s an anthem, a statement, and a celebration of everything that makes the Magnolia State special. Representing her home state with authenticity, confidence, and raw energy, AnaDaBratt holds Mississippi all the way down  on this powerful track. From the gritty beat to the Southern drawl in her flow, she captures the spirit of her roots while also carving out her own lane in today’s music scene. “Im So Mississippi” is now available on all streaming platforms , and it’s already catching the attention of fans who appreciate real lyricism mixed with Southern soul and flavor. With each bar, AnaDaBratt showcases why she’s not just another rapper from the South—she’s the next big artist to watch. Whether you’re from Mississippi or not, this track will make you feel the pride and passion AnaDaBratt brings to every verse. Her delivery is fierce, her presence is commanding, and her message is clear: she's here to represent her state—and she’s not letting up. Keep up with AnaDaBratt and her journey by following her on Instagram: @_anadabratt . Tap in now, because Mississippi’s got something to say—and AnaDaBratt is the one saying it.

In an industry that often leans on formulas and trends, VScript  is doing the unthinkable— creating a brand-new genre . The innovative songwriter and music artist  has introduced the world to “Afro Bounce,”  a groundbreaking fusion of Afrobeat  rhythms and New Orleans Bounce  energy. And he’s kicking it all off with his latest infectious single, "How You Move" , featuring Fly Boi Keno  and Luke Goliath . Blending the global grooves of Afrobeat with the raw, percussive pulse of Bounce music, Afro Bounce  is more than just a sound—it's a movement. With “How You Move,” VScript offers a taste of something refreshing and rhythmic, built to dominate dance floors and playlists around the world. From the vibrant Afro percussion to the signature NOLA call-and-response vibe, this track captures the best of both worlds and turns it into something entirely new. Joining VScript on the track are Fly Boi Keno , known for his New Orleans-rooted energy, and Luke Goliath , whose musical textures bring another dynamic layer to the song. Their chemistry on the record is seamless, making "How You Move" an anthem that demands attention. More than just a musician, VScript is a visionary , redefining genre boundaries and reshaping the soundscape. As he continues to carve out his lane, his innovation with Afro Bounce signals a new era of cross-cultural creativity in music. Add “How You Move” to your playlist now , and make sure to follow VScript on Instagram @vscript  to keep up with his journey as he pioneers one of the most exciting new sounds in music today.

Waco, Texas has a new voice turning heads in the hip-hop scene, and his name is BG Sambo . The rising rapper is making waves with his latest release, a music video for the track “Chicken Chaser” , and it’s already being hailed by fans and tastemakers alike as a potential summer anthem. With raw energy, street-savvy lyrics, and an unmistakable Southern flair, BG Sambo is quickly building a name for himself in the Lone Star State and beyond. “Chicken Chaser” showcases his charismatic delivery and confident presence, proving he’s not just another rapper in the mix—he’s a problem. From gritty bars to a catchy hook, the track captures the hunger and hustle of someone chasing success by any means. The visuals match the track’s energy, with vibrant shots and a street aesthetic that gives fans an authentic glimpse into Sambo's world. Whether you’re riding with the windows down or turning up at the function, “Chicken Chaser” is built to set the tone this summer. BG Sambo’s buzz has been steadily growing, and this release may be his biggest breakout moment yet. Waco has long flown under the radar when it comes to rap talent, but BG Sambo is changing that narrative one banger at a time. Keep your eyes on this Texas talent and check out the “Chicken Chaser” video now. Follow BG Sambo on Instagram @BG_litsam  and stay tapped in with the next big thing out of Waco.

In the grand narrative of hip-hop, few figures have embodied both the heights of commercial success and the gritty reality of street respect quite like MC Hammer. Born Stanley Burrell, Hammer burst out of Oakland, California, in the late 1980s with a sound and style that redefined the boundaries of rap. While many saw the flashy outfits, signature dance moves, and pop-friendly hits, few realized the man behind the music was someone whose name carried weight far beyond the charts. MC Hammer was not to be played with—something many in the industry learned the hard way. Hammer’s breakthrough was unprecedented. With the release of  Please Hammer, Don’t Hurt ‘Em  in 1990, he catapulted to superstardom. Powered by the infectious anthem “U Can’t Touch This,” the album went on to become the first hip-hop record to go diamond, selling over 10 million copies in the United States alone. His ability to cross over into mainstream America—suburban homes, Pepsi commercials, and prime-time TV—was both revolutionary and, for some in the rap community, controversial. While Hammer’s massive success brought rap into a new era of commercial viability, it also painted a target on his back. Critics within the culture began questioning his authenticity, accusing him of softening the genre for mainstream appeal. Hammer’s name became a lightning rod in an era of hyper-masculine, battle-ready rap. LL Cool J took offense to being name-dropped by Hammer in the 1987 track “Let’s Get It Started,” leading to lyrical shots and a backstage confrontation. Though the two legends would eventually squash their beef, it highlighted the kind of tension Hammer constantly had to navigate. Other critics weren’t so lucky. 3rd Bass’s track “The Cactus” included disrespectful references not only to Hammer but to his family—an unspoken red line in hip-hop. In response, Hammer didn’t just answer with lyrics. Reports circulated that his brother issued threats directly to Def Jam, and a bounty was allegedly placed on rapper MC Serch. The situation grew so intense that Russell Simmons himself had to intervene to prevent real-world violence. Then there was Ice Cube, whose video for “True to the Game” appeared to throw subliminal shots at Hammer. That didn’t go unchecked. Even Redman, then a rising star, was confronted after taking jabs at Hammer on his debut. In each instance, the message was loud and clear: behind the polished performances was a man who demanded—and commanded—respect. While his critics focused on his flashy image, those who truly knew Hammer understood he was a multifaceted figure. He wasn’t just selling records—he was building an empire. Hammer employed hundreds, gave back to his community in Oakland, and mentored upcoming artists long before it was trendy. His business acumen was ahead of its time, and his philanthropy made tangible differences in the lives of those around him. It’s also telling that Suge Knight, one of the most feared figures in the industry, never tried Hammer. That silence speaks volumes. Hammer’s reputation extended far beyond music videos and award shows—he was a man whose name carried real respect in rooms where respect mattered most. Today, the legacy of MC Hammer is more complex and respected than ever. He is no longer simply remembered for parachute pants and viral dance moves, but as a pioneer who redefined what was possible for a rapper on the global stage. He showed that you could sell millions of records, entertain the masses, and still remain true to your roots. Hammer’s story is one of contradictions—mainstream and street, polished and raw, approachable and intimidating. Yet, it’s precisely those contrasts that make his legacy so enduring. He walked a path that hadn’t been paved yet, and did so with strength, dignity, and an unwavering belief in himself. In the end, MC Hammer wasn’t just too legit to quit—he was too real to be disrespected.

Louisiana has long been a powerhouse in the world of hip-hop, producing legends who shaped the sound of Southern rap—from Lil Wayne to Boosie Badazz and Kevin Gates. Now, there’s a fresh name heating up the scene, and her name is Ms. Scrilla . Hailing from the heart of Louisiana, Ms. Scrilla  just dropped a fiery new music video for her latest single, “I Need A Hot Boii,”  and it’s already generating major buzz. With a blend of undeniable talent, raw charisma, and captivating beauty, Ms. Scrilla proves she’s not just here to ride the wave—she’s here to make one of her own. “I Need A Hot Boii” is a bold, bounce-infused anthem that pays homage to the iconic Hot Boys legacy while carving out a fresh, feminine twist. The visuals are vibrant, the bars are hard-hitting, and the energy is through the roof. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Louisiana hip-hop or new to the sound, this track demands attention. What sets Ms. Scrilla apart isn’t just her lyrical delivery—it’s her star presence. From the moment she hits the screen, it’s clear she has it : that rare combination of authenticity, confidence, and style that separates stars from everyone else. She's quickly earning her stripes in a male-dominated genre and proving she can hold her own with the best of them. With her foot on the gas and eyes on the throne, Ms. Scrilla is an artist you need to have on your radar . Check out her latest video “I Need A Hot Boii” now and follow her journey on Instagram: @ms.scrilla_ . The South has a new queen on the rise—don’t say we didn’t warn you.

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 .

Acclaimed vocalist, songwriter, and pianist Sheléa  returns to the spotlight with her powerful new single, “I Don’t Care,”  a soulful declaration of self-worth and emotional liberation. The Bakersfield-born songstress—known for her stunning vocal range and deeply emotive delivery—continues to carve out her unique space in the world of music, blending classical, jazz, R&B, and pop into a sound that defies categorization. Sheléa (pronounced shuh-lay-yuh ) is no stranger to greatness. Her artistry has graced the stages of the White House , Carnegie Hall , and the Kennedy Center , and she has performed for icons and dignitaries alike. From viral YouTube fame with her 10-song Whitney Houston tribute medley  to performing heartfelt homages to Aretha Franklin , Sheléa’s voice consistently pays tribute to legends while firmly cementing her own legacy. Her debut album Love Fell On Me  introduced her to the world with the track “I’ll Never Let You Go,” which climbed to #22 on the Billboard R&B charts . Since then, she’s worked with a roster of musical royalty, including Quincy Jones , Stevie Wonder , David Foster , Narada Michael Walden , Ricky Minor , and Dave Koz , each recognizing her as a rare talent whose vocal control, tone, and emotional depth set her apart. “I Don’t Care” is Sheléa’s latest offering—an anthem for anyone ready to release toxicity and stand confidently in their truth. Delivered with grace and fire, the track showcases the vocal mastery and lyrical clarity Sheléa has become known for. It’s a bold musical statement from an artist who continues to evolve while remaining anchored in soul. As anticipation builds for her upcoming album Pretty World: A Tribute to Alan and Marilyn Bergman , which will be accompanied by a star-studded PBS special, Sheléa proves once again that she’s not just an interpreter of great songs—she’s a force of nature with a timeless voice and a message that resonates across generations. Check out Sheléa’s new single “I Don’t Care” on all streaming platforms  and follow her journey on Instagram at @sheleamusic .

In the rich and evolving story of hip-hop, few artists embody the spirit of perseverance and innovation quite like Silkk The Shocker , born Vyshonne King Miller. Rising from the streets of New Orleans , Silkk transformed personal struggle into powerful storytelling and helped define an era of Southern rap that forever changed the genre’s landscape. Silkk’s journey began alongside his brothers Master P  and C-Murder , forming the group Tru  in the early 1990s. While Tru’s early albums gained regional traction, they laid the groundwork for what would become a music empire— No Limit Records . Under the visionary leadership of Master P, Silkk found the perfect stage to launch his solo career. With a unique off-beat flow  and raw energy, Silkk carved out a sound all his own. His debut album, The Shocker  (1996), was only a glimpse of what was to come. It was his sophomore project, Charge It 2 Da Game  (1998), that exploded commercially—featuring the hit singles “It Ain’t My Fault”  with Mystikal and “Just Be Straight With Me”  featuring Destiny’s Child. The album achieved platinum status , solidifying Silkk as a No Limit standout and a certified star. Silkk The Shocker’s rapid-fire delivery and bounce-infused tracks became signature elements of the late '90s Southern hip-hop wave. His collaborations with labelmates and other stars helped define No Limit’s golden era, a time when the label dropped multiple chart-topping albums back-to-back. But success wasn’t without its critics. Some questioned his unconventional flow, and as hip-hop tastes shifted into the 2000s, Silkk's commercial dominance began to wane. Still, he continued releasing music, acting in films like Hot Boyz  and I Got the Hook-Up , and staying involved in the entertainment industry while supporting his family’s ongoing creative ventures. Through it all, Silkk remained true to himself—never chasing trends, but instead building a lane that many imitated. His influence can be heard in today’s artists who blend bounce, authenticity, and fearless experimentation. Today, Silkk The Shocker stands as a symbol of resilience, originality, and independence . From platinum plaques to Hollywood roles, from rap battles to business moves, his legacy is one of a cultural trailblazer  who made an indelible mark on hip-hop. As new generations discover his catalog and influence, Silkk’s place in the hip-hop pantheon is secured—not just for the music he made, but for the doors he helped open. Salute to a true No Limit soldier.

The Lone Star State is no stranger to producing hip-hop powerhouses, and the next name buzzing out of Texas is Clxpatra . With a fiery presence, undeniable lyrical skills, and eye-catching charisma, Clxpatra is quickly becoming one of the most exciting new artists to watch. Her latest release, the music video for “Wop (Freestyle),”  shot by the talented Rich Taiste , proves that she’s not just a pretty face — she’s got serious bars to match. In “Wop (Freestyle),” Clxpatra attacks the beat with raw energy and confidence, delivering punchlines with precision while exuding a magnetic swagger that’s impossible to ignore. Her flow is sharp, her wordplay is clever, and her delivery commands attention from the first second to the last. The visual, equally bold, showcases her commanding on-screen presence — effortlessly blending style with street. What separates Clxpatra from the crowd is the rare combination of authentic Southern grit , lyrical prowess, and a modern-day rap goddess aesthetic. She embodies what it means to be multifaceted — equally powerful in performance and appearance, making her a threat in every direction. Texas is known for birthing trailblazers in music, and Clxpatra is ready to carry that legacy forward in her own lane. As her name continues to echo louder in conversations about who’s next up, it’s clear that this isn’t a one-off moment — it’s the beginning of something big. 🔥 Watch “Wop (Freestyle)” now and keep Clxpatra on your radar — she’s just getting started. 📲 Follow her on Instagram: @clxpatra .

New Orleans, Louisiana, has long been known as a breeding ground for musical greatness. From the jazz-filled corners of the French Quarter to the bounce-heavy streets of the 9th Ward, the Crescent City has produced some of the most iconic voices in hip-hop. Among those voices is Michael "Big Mike" Barnett , a New Orleans native whose story is one of raw talent, hard decisions, street politics, and the unwavering will to rise again. Big Mike first gained traction in the early '90s as one half of the Houston-based duo The Convicts , alongside Mr. 3-2. Their gritty lyrics and authentic street tales caught the attention of the Southern rap scene, and Big Mike was quickly recognized as a standout. Around the same time, West Coast giant Death Row Records  came calling, eager to bring Big Mike into their star-studded lineup. His relationship with Snoop Dogg , with whom he once shared an apartment, seemed to make the move a perfect fit. But Houston had different plans. J. Prince , the founder of Rap-A-Lot Records , managed to keep Big Mike in the South. When Willie D  briefly exited the Geto Boys, Big Mike was tapped to fill his shoes. He appeared on the group’s 1993 album, "Till Death Do Us Part,"  adding a unique New Orleans flavor to the already dominant Texas sound. However, internal tension—most notably a physical altercation with Scarface —led to Big Mike’s departure from the group and paved the way for Willie D’s return. Not one to be deterred, Big Mike launched a successful solo career. His solo albums, like "Somethin’ Serious"  and "Still Serious" , resonated with fans across the South. His authentic, hard-hitting storytelling and baritone delivery became his trademark. But as his fame grew, so did the friction behind the scenes. When Rap-A-Lot Records tried to lock him into a long-term contract, Big Mike demanded what he was owed before signing anything new. That decision would come with dire consequences. Big Mike’s refusal to sign led to increasing tension, which reportedly escalated to life-threatening threats. One incident—where bullets narrowly missed him—suggested things were far more serious than contract disputes. Pushed to the edge, Big Mike retaliated by attempting to burn down Rap-A-Lot’s studio and offices , an act that led to his arrest and a six-year prison sentence for arson . After serving his time, Big Mike returned to the world a changed man. His music today reflects a deeper perspective—still raw, still honest, but with wisdom forged from struggle. His legacy is a complex one. He’s an artist who stood on principle, even when it cost him everything. A New Orleans voice that helped shape Southern rap. A man who, despite facing betrayal, prison, and violence, never gave up on himself. In a culture that often glamorizes the street without telling the full story, Big Mike’s journey is a reminder of the real stakes. And for those who know, Big Mike isn’t just a Southern rap legend—he’s a survivor . Follow Big Mike’s journey and discography to understand a critical piece of Southern hip-hop history that deserves far more recognition.

New Orleans has always been a breeding ground for raw and unfiltered musical talent, and a new name is beginning to rise from the city’s underground scene— 1200TIGGA . While he’s been moving quietly under the radar, the momentum is building, and the young artist is now ready to make a serious statement in the game. After keeping fans waiting, 1200TIGGA dropped his debut mixtape "SRRY IM Late"  in 2024, introducing his unique sound and gritty storytelling style to the world. The tape served as a warning shot, signaling that a new contender had arrived on the New Orleans hip-hop scene with something to prove. Now in 2025, 1200TIGGA is picking up the pace. He kicked off the year with the release of "Ghetto Rockstars" with Baby Drak , a music video that showcased his energy, lyrical grit, and hunger to rise. Last month, he followed it up with a live performance of "Dirty Balenciagas" , further proving that he has the stage presence and authenticity to connect with listeners on all levels. What makes 1200TIGGA stand out is his ability to reflect the raw realities of life in New Orleans while still bringing creativity and ambition to the table. With his name starting to buzz and a new tape on the way , the timing couldn’t be better for fans to lock in with an artist on the verge of a breakout. Make sure you follow @1200TIGGA  on Instagram to stay up to date with all his latest moves—and don’t sleep on what’s next. New Orleans might just have its next star.