Search Results

In the spring of 2000, just as Destiny’s Child’s  album The Writing’s On The Wall  was gaining massive momentum, a tense showdown took place behind closed doors at Sony Records —one that would highlight the determination and boldness that defined the group’s rise to superstardom. According to Tina Knowles’  recently released memoir, Matriarch , Sony executives called an urgent meeting with Matthew Knowles , Destiny’s Child’s manager—and Beyoncé’s father. The reason? They didn’t believe Destiny’s Child would successfully cross over  into the pop market. Their reasoning was stunningly superficial: they claimed Tina’s homemade, Motown-inspired styling  was holding the group back . The executives reportedly criticized the group’s fashion, saying it wasn’t “something an average girl can go to the mall and just get for a date.” They labeled their look as "Motown"  and "homemade,"  implying it was too polished, too unique—and not commercial enough for broader appeal. Matthew Knowles didn’t miss a beat. In a now-legendary moment, he stood up, walked over to the light switch, flicked it on and off, and told the room: “Destiny’s Child is keeping the f cking lights on in here. Just don’t forget that.”* It was a bold reminder that Destiny’s Child —with their unmatched talent, infectious energy, and yes, their original style—was already driving Sony’s success , even if the executives didn’t fully appreciate it. Despite the criticism, Destiny’s Child stuck to their guns . They continued to wear Tina’s creative, often one-of-a-kind designs, celebrating individuality at a time when the industry pushed conformity. And the results spoke louder than any boardroom critique: The Writing’s On The Wall  sold over 7 million copies in the U.S. alone . It spawned major hits like “Say My Name,”   “Jumpin’, Jumpin’,”  and “Bills, Bills, Bills.” It firmly established Destiny’s Child as one of the defining girl groups of their generation. Matthew Knowles would go on to manage the group until their disbandment in 2006 , and Tina Knowles would continue to shape their iconic image through the late '90s and early 2000s. Today, The Writing’s On The Wall  stands not just as a hit album but as a testament to creative authenticity, family loyalty, and fearless self-belief . Thanks to Matthew and Tina’s unwavering vision—and Destiny’s Child’s unstoppable talent— they didn’t just keep the lights on at Sony; they lit the way for future generations.

Brooklyn has always been a hotbed for raw talent and authentic voices, and rising artist Mel Bands  is carrying that tradition forward with her latest release. Showcasing her lyrical prowess and magnetic presence, Mel just dropped the visuals for “Villan,”  delivered as an Im Like Dat Mic Performance  — and it's a performance you don't want to miss. In “Villan,”  Mel Bands brings a gritty, unapologetic energy  that reflects the realness of her Brooklyn roots. With sharp wordplay, confident delivery, and a no-holds-barred attitude, she commands attention from the very first bar. The minimalist mic performance format strips away distractions, allowing Mel’s raw talent  and stage charisma  to shine through. Her ability to blend storytelling with hard-hitting flows places her firmly among the next wave of New York artists  who are poised to make a major impact on the scene. If you haven’t already, now is the time to lock in with Mel Bands—because she’s definitely one to watch. 📍 Hometown:  Brooklyn, New York 🎥 New Visuals:   “Villan” (Im Like Dat Mic Performance) 📲 Follow her on Instagram:   @melbands_ Stay tuned—Mel Bands is just getting started.  🎤🔥

Atlanta has long been the heart of hip-hop innovation, and Lil Chez7o  is the latest name generating serious buzz in the city's thriving music scene. With the release of his brand-new visuals for "Pillow Talking,"  Lil Chez7o is proving why he’s an artist you need to keep on your radar. “Pillow Talking”  showcases Lil Chez7o’s signature style: sharp delivery, catchy flows, and an authentic voice  that reflects the hustle and raw energy of Atlanta. The visuals bring his storytelling to life, adding another layer of personality and grit to a track that already feels like a street anthem. With a growing fanbase and a work ethic that’s hard to ignore, Lil Chez7o is making it clear that he’s not just here for the moment— he’s here to build a legacy . If you’re looking for the next artist poised to break out of Atlanta’s crowded scene, look no further. 📍 City:  Atlanta, Georgia 🎥 New Visuals:  “Pillow Talking” 📲 Follow him on Instagram:   @lilchez7 Tap in now—Lil Chez7o is only getting started.

The Atlanta music scene has long been a breeding ground for some of the most influential names in hip-hop, and the next one making serious noise is Day1 Lil Willie . The buzzing artist just released the visuals for his new track “Apart Of This,”  and it’s clear he’s carving out a lane of his own. Known for his authentic lyrics , street-driven storytelling, and a voice that captures the heart of the South, Day1 Lil Willie has been steadily building a name in Atlanta’s competitive music circuit. “Apart Of This”  puts his raw emotion and sharp delivery front and center—an anthem for those who’ve been counted out, only to rise with something to prove. The visuals match the energy of the song, bringing to life the hunger, grind, and grit that define Day1 Lil Willie’s journey. With a growing fanbase and momentum building with every release, he’s without a doubt an artist you should put on your radar now . 📍 Hometown:  Atlanta, Georgia 🎥 New Visuals:  “Apart Of This” 📲 Follow him on Instagram:   @day1_willie Stay tuned—Day1 Lil Willie is only getting started.

The Houston music scene continues to thrive with fresh talent, and one rising voice making waves is Matthew Girma . The gifted music artist has just released the visuals for his latest single, “Lost Cause,”  and it's clear this is an artist worth your attention—and a spot on your playlist. With smooth vocals, emotional depth, and a sound that blends classic soul with modern R&B, Matthew Girma  delivers a heartfelt performance in “Lost Cause.”  The track explores the pain and vulnerability that comes with emotional disconnect, showcasing his storytelling ability and vocal control  in a way that hits home for listeners. The visuals match the song’s tone beautifully—moody, reflective, and cinematic—painting a full picture of love lost and lessons learned. It’s the kind of release that resonates deeply and reminds fans why R&B remains such a powerful genre. 📍 Hometown:  Houston, Texas 🎥 New Visual:   “Lost Cause” 📲 Follow on Instagram:   @matthewgirma Whether you're deep in your feelings or just love discovering new R&B gems, Matthew Girma is one to watch . Hit play, and get familiar—you won’t regret it.

In 1996, The Fugees  dropped their groundbreaking second album, The Score , an instant classic that redefined hip-hop’s global reach. But behind one of its most iconic tracks— “Ready or Not” —was a legal storm that nearly pulled the album from shelves altogether. The issue? The haunting instrumental that introduced “Ready or Not”  was sampled from Enya’s  ethereal track “Boadicea” —without her permission and without giving her credit. At the time, The Fugees—comprised of Lauryn Hill , Wyclef Jean , and Pras —were still navigating the business side of the industry. According to Wyclef, the group didn’t fully understand publishing and copyright clearance , and using the sample without clearing it was an honest, albeit major, misstep. Initially, Enya considered suing  the group, which could’ve led to the track being removed entirely from the album. But after hearing The Score  and realizing it was not gangsta rap , but rather thoughtful, socially conscious music, she chose a different path. Enya agreed to a reported $3 million settlement  and was finally given proper sample credit  on the track. In a 2016 interview with Forbes Magazine , she reflected on the situation with grace and clarity: “Oh absolutely, I think they’re wonderful musicians. We were both fans, but the way it just happened was the wrong way and I just felt I had to make a stand for what I believed in musically... All we expected was just a call to say ‘will you listen to this song?’” Enya pointed out that with other artists like P. Diddy , who sampled “Boadicea”  for Mario’s “I Don’t Wanna Know,”  the process was simple and respectful—a phone call and a request. For The Fugees, the situation became a valuable lesson in music publishing and intellectual property . As Wyclef Jean later put it, it was a learning experience that shaped how they approached their craft and business going forward. Despite the controversy, “Ready or Not”  remains one of hip-hop’s most haunting and beloved tracks , with Enya’s sample adding a timeless mystique that fans still rave about. Today, both The Score  and “Ready or Not”  are celebrated not just as cultural milestones, but as reminders of the importance of respecting artistry—both past and present . In the end, what could’ve been a disaster turned into a story of mutual respect and creative integrity—and it saved a song that continues to inspire listeners worldwide.

The Texas hip-hop scene continues to sizzle with undeniable heat, and one artist making his way to the frontlines is Leekobaby . With the release of his latest visuals for “Chess,”  the rising star proves that he’s not just playing the game — he’s moving with precision. Coming straight out of the Lone Star State, Leekobaby represents the new wave of Southern talent that’s pushing boundaries and capturing attention. The “Chess”  video is more than just a visual — it’s a statement of strategy, ambition, and lyrical finesse , wrapped in gritty, authentic storytelling. Whether it’s the calculated bars, cinematic visuals, or his commanding presence, Leekobaby delivers with a level of confidence that shows he’s been putting in the work. His momentum in the Texas music scene is building fast, and it’s only a matter of time before the industry as a whole starts taking serious notice. 📍 Artist:  Leekobaby 🎥 New Visuals:   “Chess” 📲 Follow on Instagram:   @leekobaby If you're not tapped in yet, now's the time — Leekobaby is playing to win. ♟️🔥

In the vibrant, gritty, and soulful hip-hop scene of New Orleans , few artists represent the city’s raw spirit quite like Awood Johnson Jr. , better known by his stage name Magic  or Mr. Magic . Born and raised in the Lower Ninth Ward , Magic rose from local street ciphers to national fame, becoming a voice for his city and a force within Southern rap. Magic’s journey into music began in the underground circles of New Orleans, where he polished his delivery through talent shows  and neighborhood collaborations. It wasn’t long before his talent drew the attention of C-Murder , a No Limit heavyweight and fellow NOLA native. Tracks like “Picture Me”  and “Watch Yo Enemies”  highlighted Magic’s gritty voice and street-hardened storytelling, earning him respect and setting the stage for his solo breakout. In 1998 , Magic released his debut album Sky’s the Limit , a landmark project that captured his voice and vision with clarity and passion. The album was powered by bangers like “No Hope”  and the hometown anthem “9th Ward” , peaking at #15 on the Billboard 200  and marking Magic as one of No Limit’s standout stars. His sophomore effort, Thuggin’ , released in 1999, doubled down on the success, delivering hits like “That’s Me”  and “Ice on My Wrist”  (featuring Master P). Magic’s charisma and authentic Southern style made him a fan favorite in an era dominated by regional rap expansion. After his third album, White Eyes , didn’t match previous successes, Magic parted ways with No Limit Records , signaling the start of a new chapter. In 2004 , he joined the group Body Head Bangerz , alongside Choppa  and former boxing champ Roy Jones Jr.  Their debut album delivered the hit “I Smoke, I Drank” , bringing Magic back into the national conversation and proving his versatility as an artist. Though he faced industry ups and downs, including a short-lived deal with TVT Records, Magic remained focused. In 2011 , he launched Banx Entertainment , determined to build something on his own terms. His ambition and resilience never waned. On March 1, 2013 , tragedy struck when Magic and his wife Chastity  were killed in a car accident in Hattiesburg, Mississippi . Their 12-year-old daughter survived , carrying the torch of her father’s legacy. The news sent shockwaves through the hip-hop world, especially in New Orleans, where Magic was more than just a rapper—he was family. Magic’s name might not be shouted as loudly as some of his peers, but his impact is undeniable . From his early No Limit days to his independent grind, Magic represented the heart of New Orleans hip-hop—resilient, passionate, and real. He was a voice for the streets , a beacon for his neighborhood, and an artist whose music still echoes in speakers from NOLA to nationwide. As the city continues to evolve and new artists emerge, Magic’s influence lives on . His music remains a time capsule of a golden era in Southern rap, and his story—full of dreams, success, setbacks, and determination—continues to inspire. Long live Mr. Magic. Lower 9 forever.

Before it became one of Drake’s most emotionally charged hits , “Find Your Love”  was actually written with Rihanna  in mind. The vulnerable, melodic track—produced by a powerhouse team including Kanye West  and No I.D. —was originally intended to be performed by a woman. But once Drake heard Rihanna’s version, he made a bold decision: he wanted the song for himself . In a 2010 interview with MTV , Drake explained the risk he took by keeping the song: “‘Find Your Love’ is an extremely vulnerable song. And it’s actually a huge risk. It almost feels like the song should be performed by a woman. I’m just hoping that men really hear the song and they’re honest with themselves. I know a lot of men feel that way.” Produced by No I.D. , who later recounted the story in a 2011 interview with Complex Magazine , the song marked a turning point for Drake. At a time when hip-hop was dominated by bravado and toughness, “Find Your Love”  stood out as open, melodic, and emotionally raw —a sonic blend that would go on to define much of Drake’s early career. The gamble paid off. Released as a single from his 2010 debut album Thank Me Later , the track became a chart-topping success , peaking at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. It helped cement Drake’s place as an artist who could blur the lines between rap and R&B—and who wasn’t afraid to show vulnerability. What began as a song for Rihanna ultimately became a defining moment for Drake, proving that sometimes the biggest wins come from taking the boldest risks .

Bronx’s own Cito Blick  is back at it, delivering hard-hitting bars and relentless energy with the release of his new music video, “Outta Lucc.”  A staple in the New York drill scene, Cito Blick continues to prove why he’s one of the most consistent independent artists  rising out of the city right now. Known for his authentic street presence and raw delivery, Cito blends intensity with storytelling, painting vivid pictures of life, loss, and loyalty through his lyrics. With “Outta Lucc,”  he channels the hunger and hustle that define New York’s underground rap scene, staying true to the gritty tone that fans have come to respect. The visuals match the track’s mood—dark, focused, and unapologetic—further solidifying Cito Blick’s position as a name to know in drill music. His work ethic and steady stream of releases have earned him a loyal fan base and growing recognition beyond the five boroughs. If you haven’t tapped in yet, now’s the time. Follow Cito Blick on Instagram @citoblick  and check out the video for “Outta Lucc” —because when it comes to real rap, Cito stays ten toes down.

In the rich and storied history of New Orleans hip-hop , few names carry the reverence and respect that Tim Smooth  does. Born Timothy Smoot , the legendary emcee became a pivotal figure in the early 1990s rap scene, using his lyrical brilliance and genuine love for the craft to carve out a lane that would influence an entire generation of Southern hip-hop artists. Tim Smooth recently passed away at the age of 39  after a courageous battle with cancer. As the New Orleans community reflects on his life and legacy, one thing is clear— his impact runs deep . Early Beginnings & Local Fame A graduate of L.W. Higgins High School  in 1989, Tim Smooth didn’t waste any time before launching himself into music. Just two years later, he released his debut single, “I Gotsta’ Have It”  in 1991—a track that quickly became a local anthem . With a laid-back flow, clever wordplay, and undeniable charisma, Tim separated himself from the pack and became one of New Orleans’ most respected lyricists . By the time his albums Straight Up Drivin’ Em  (1994) and Da Franchise Player  (1998) dropped, Tim had already solidified his place as a cornerstone of New Orleans hip-hop , known to many as "the Knight from Kennedy Heights."  His sound resonated far beyond the Crescent City, landing him collaborations with Houston's Rap-A-Lot Records  and other independent labels. A Mentor and Inspiration to Many Tim Smooth’s influence wasn’t just musical—it was deeply personal. He played a significant role in the development of fellow NOLA rap legend Mystikal , who once said, “Had I never met Tim, I would be a totally different artist. He even co-wrote the title cut with me on 'Mind of Mystikal.' Thanks for the memories.” That kind of mentorship and collaborative spirit was a hallmark of Tim’s career. He was never just in it for himself—he uplifted others, sharing knowledge and encouragement with the next generation of artists trying to find their voice. A Fighter with a Smile Even in the face of hardship, Tim Smooth remained a source of light. As he battled cancer, those around him marveled at his unshakable positivity . His sister, Nicole Smoot , recalled, “He never had a fight in his whole life, and he was 39 years old. He was a happy person. He was always cracking jokes, and even with the cancer, he never didn't have a smile on his face.” Despite not having health insurance, the New Orleans community rallied behind him , organizing benefit events and donations to support him during his treatment—a testament to the love and respect he earned through years of giving back. The Final Chapter Tim Smooth’s final album, “The Invisible Man”  (2004), closed the book on a career that was rich with creativity, innovation, and purpose . Though his time in the spotlight may have been brief compared to some, the legacy he left behind is lasting. His work helped shape the blueprint for the New Orleans sound— before the bling, before the bounce, there was Tim Smooth . Gone But Never Forgotten More than just an artist, Tim Smooth was a symbol of resilience, talent, and community . A mentor, a friend, a pioneer—he left behind more than music; he left behind a legacy of love, humor, and hope . As New Orleans continues to evolve musically, Tim Smooth's contributions remain at its core. His name will forever echo in the streets he repped, in the verses he penned, and in the hearts of everyone he inspired. Rest in peace to the Knight from Kennedy Heights—Tim Smooth. Your city will never forget you.

The Dallas music scene  is heating up, and one of the freshest names making waves is Rodo Foreign . With the release of his brand-new visuals for “800,000 Miles,”  the Texas native continues to build serious momentum—and if his current grind is any indication, he’s on track to become a name the entire music industry will be buzzing about by the end of 2025 . Known for his smooth delivery , authentic storytelling , and a signature style  that reflects both hustle and ambition, Rodo Foreign is turning heads and gaining respect with every release. “800,000 Miles”  showcases not only his lyrical skill but also his ability to craft music that feels personal and cinematic—taking listeners on a journey far beyond the streets of Dallas. The visuals are clean, captivating, and full of energy, offering a glimpse into the world Rodo Foreign is creating for himself and his fans. It’s clear he’s not just rapping— he’s building a legacy . 📍 Hometown:  Dallas, Texas 🎥 New Video:   800,000 Miles 📲 Follow:   @rodoforeign With consistency, talent, and a hunger that can’t be taught, Rodo Foreign is one to keep your eyes and ears on . Tap in now, because by 2025, he might just be everywhere.