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Louisiana has always been home to some of the most influential sounds in music, but few genres carry the energy, culture, and authenticity of New Orleans Bounce . And right now, one of the brightest rising stars carrying that torch is none other than Papiana . Since stepping onto the scene, Papiana has been on fire , earning attention from supporters all over the South and beyond. Her confidence, charisma, and natural ability to ride a beat have made her one of the most exciting new faces in the bounce movement. She isn’t just making music—she’s pushing the culture forward. Bounce music has been steadily climbing its way into the mainstream for years, but artists like Papiana are accelerating that momentum. With her sound, her style, and her relentless work ethic, she’s proving that Bounce deserves just as much space on the global stage as any other genre. At this pace, hearing bounce tracks on the radio every other song  may soon become the norm. Recently, Papiana dropped a remix to Kehlani’s “Folded” , and she did not disappoint. She infused the track with her signature bounce flavor, turning it into something fresh, vibrant, and unmistakably hers—a reminder that she can take any song and make it a certified hit. If Papiana keeps applying pressure like this, a worldwide takeover  is only a matter of time. Stay tapped in with her journey—follow her on Instagram @itspapiana . This is an artist you’ll want to watch closely.

Before he became one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars, Will Smith  had a serious money problem. Long before the blockbuster films, Grammy wins, and global fame, the young rapper-turned-actor was drowning in IRS debt. In the late 1980s, Smith rose to fame as part of the rap duo DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince . While they scored hits and even won a Grammy, Smith admits he didn’t handle his money wisely. Lavish spending and poor financial management left him owing the IRS a reported $2.8 million . When NBC came calling with The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air  in 1990, Smith saw it as a lifeline. But there was a catch: the IRS took 70% of his paycheck for the first three seasons of the show  to cover his back taxes. That meant while Smith was starring in a hit sitcom and becoming a household name, the majority of his earnings were being funneled straight to the government. Looking back, Smith has called it a tough but important lesson in financial responsibility. Despite the struggle, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air  launched his acting career, giving him the platform to become one of the biggest stars in the world. It’s a reminder that even icons like Will Smith had to overcome serious setbacks before achieving legendary success.

Marrero, Louisiana has a rising star on its hands, and her name is Booqoo . Quickly becoming one of the most talked-about new artists in the region, Booqoo is building major momentum—not just from her growing fanbase, but from the powerhouse team behind her. She is currently managed by Fee Banks , New Orleans’ own and well-known manager of NBA YoungBoy, under Good Money Global , a company with a proven track record of developing serious talent. What makes Booqoo stand out is her versatility . She isn’t a one-lane artist—she adapts her style to whatever vibe the song demands. Whether she’s delivering hard-hitting bars, melodic flows, or raw emotional content, Booqoo shows she can do it all. That unpredictable range is exactly what keeps fans tuned in and waiting for her next move. The buzz around her name is only getting louder, and industry insiders are already placing bets on her becoming one of Louisiana’s next breakout stars. With talent, a strong team, and undeniable star potential, Booqoo is positioning herself for a major run. Make sure you tap in early— stream her latest music  and follow her on Instagram @b00q00 . This is an artist you’ll want to watch.

In a city where jazz and brass are deeply embedded in its cultural DNA, New Orleans  gave rise to a gritty, unfiltered voice in hip-hop during the early 1990s— The Ghetto Twiinz . Composed of twin sisters Tonya and Tremethia Jupiter , the Ghetto Twiinz emerged as a powerful force in Southern rap , blending streetwise storytelling with fearless authenticity. Their rise from the streets of New Orleans to the Billboard charts  cemented their place in hip-hop history as one of the most impactful female duos to ever touch the mic. Born and raised in the heart of New Orleans, Tonya and Tremethia were no strangers to struggle. In 1991 , the sisters formed the Ghetto Twiinz as a way to channel their experiences through music , offering a raw, unapologetic look at life in the city's neighborhoods. Their lyrical honesty set them apart—these weren’t just catchy hooks and club anthems; this was real-life pain, survival, and sisterhood  poured into every verse. Their big break came in 1994  when they signed with Big Boy Records , a key player in the city’s emerging hip-hop scene. Two years later, they dropped their debut album, “Surrounded by Criminals,”  a gritty, fearless project that resonated with people across the South  and beyond. Their unique perspective as women navigating a male-dominated, street-centric world of rap added a much-needed voice to the genre. Following their breakthrough, the Ghetto Twiinz leveled up by signing with Rap-a-Lot Records  and Noo Trybe Records —home to some of the most influential names in Southern hip-hop. In 1997 , they released “In That Water,”  continuing to build on their momentum with vivid storytelling and southern bounce-infused production. The project landed on the Billboard charts , proving their sound had both reach and relevance. In 1998 , they followed up with “No Pain No Gain,”  a title that reflected their journey through adversity. With themes of struggle, survival, and strength, the album solidified their reputation as lyrical powerhouses unafraid to speak their truth . They would release one more album, “Got It on My Mind” (2001) , before taking a step back from the spotlight. After 2001, the Ghetto Twiinz went on a hiatus, leaving behind a noticeable void in the Southern rap scene. But in 2010 , they made their highly anticipated return, performing live at House of Blues New Orleans , opening for Mystikal , with a special appearance by the legendary Mannie Fresh . In 2011 , the sisters made their official comeback with the release of the EP “Them People Coming.”  The project served as a reminder of their unmatched chemistry, lyrical depth, and unwavering presence  in the game—even after a decade away. The Ghetto Twiinz have carved out a legacy that goes far beyond their discography. As Black women in hip-hop , particularly in the South, their success and longevity broke barriers and inspired generations  of female artists to follow. Their music addressed hard-hitting topics —poverty, violence, addiction, and injustice—while still maintaining a sense of empowerment, resilience, and pride  in their roots. Their impact on New Orleans hip-hop culture cannot be overstated. They were among the few female acts who stood toe-to-toe with their male counterparts , bringing a fresh, necessary perspective to a genre too often dominated by one voice. Today, the Ghetto Twiinz continue to build on their legacy. With an enduring fanbase and a renewed passion for their craft, Tonya and Tremethia Jupiter remain symbols of strength, survival, and authenticity in music . They’ve shown that the voice of the streets isn’t confined to gender, and that storytelling—when real and raw—can stand the test of time. Their journey is far from over. For longtime fans and new listeners alike, the Ghetto Twiinz’ music serves as a powerful reminder of where hip-hop came from—and where it’s going. Discover More: Follow the Ghetto Twiinz on social media and streaming platforms to stay updated on new music, performances, and more. Instagram:   @ghettotwiinz From the heart of New Orleans to hip-hop history, the Ghetto Twiinz are a legacy built on truth, talent, and tenacity.

Los Angeles–born singer-songwriter Nahima  is stepping deeper into her artistry with the release of her vibrant new single “Go At It!” , taken from her freshly released self-titled EP Nahima . With a voice shaped by gospel, soul, and even childhood memories of Radio Disney, Nahima brings a refreshing blend of innocence, depth, and modern R&B flair to today’s music scene. Raised along the scenic beaches of L.A., Nahima began releasing music straight from her childhood bedroom—bedroom pop infused with poetic lyricism and youthful optimism. Her sound quickly set her apart, eventually catching the attention of Grammy Award–winning production duo STARGATE , who took her under their mentorship. With their guidance, Nahima sharpened her songwriting skills and musical identity, creating opportunities to write for both independent and major label artists. Now, her new EP Nahima  showcases her full artistic range. The project weaves together elements of bedroom pop, indie R&B, and soulful melodies, all while maintaining a sound that feels authentically and unmistakably hers. “Go At It!” stands out as one of the EP’s most compelling tracks—confident, expressive, and full of emotion. Nahima is carving her path with intention, talent, and undeniable charm. Her self-titled EP is available now on all streaming platforms. Be sure to follow her journey on Instagram @nahima.mp3  and stream Nahima  today.

When people talk about the foundations of Southern rap, names like UGK, Outkast, and Master P often dominate the conversation. But one of the most influential records that shaped the sound of the South doesn’t come from Atlanta, Houston, or New Orleans—it comes from Hollis, Queens, New York . In 1986, teenage duo The Showboys , made up of Orville Hall (Can Can)  and Phillip Price (Phil D) , recorded a track that would quietly become one of the most important songs in hip-hop history: “Drag Rap.”  Though the world now knows it as “Triggerman,”  its origin story is as unexpected as its legacy is powerful. The birth of “Drag Rap” was inspired by a random moment. Hall walked out of his house and heard the Dragnet  theme playing on TV. That little melodic idea stuck with him. Combined with influence from Doug E. Fresh’s “The Show” and a drumbeat made by pounding on a Jeep’s hollow top, the Showboys had a six-minute track on their hands—part comedy, part crime drama, and all raw hip-hop. With help from Profile Records and studio time at Manhattan’s Greene Street Recording, “Drag Rap” debuted on Mr. Magic’s Rap Attack . It made some noise in NYC, but faded quickly. It could’ve ended there—but the South had other plans. The track migrated south thanks to Memphis DJ Spanish Fly , who stumbled on the record through Profile’s catalog. He didn’t know exactly what it was—but the hard-hitting 808s and wild percussion struck a chord. Soon, he was sampling it on underground tapes, and “Triggerman” became a staple in Memphis clubs, gangsta walk circles, and with rappers like 8Ball & MJG , Project Pat , and Yo Gotti . Meanwhile, in New Orleans , DJs and MCs put their own stamp on it. Tracks like “Where Dey At?”  by MC T. Tucker and DJ Irv reworked “Triggerman” into something new: bounce music . With its contagious rhythms, chopped-up vocal samples, and celebratory, raw energy, bounce would eventually fuel global tracks like Drake’s “Nice For What”  and Big Freedia’s entire catalog . “Drag Rap” may not have topped the charts, but it’s been sampled and referenced over 160 documented times —and likely many more. Its iconic elements—the xylophone run, the syncopated snare hits, the “Yes!” and “Alright!” vocal drops—became the DNA of Southern rap . Like James Brown’s Funky Drummer , “Triggerman” became a rhythmic backbone, a toolkit for producers building everything from bounce to crunk to trap. And yet, the Showboys never intended to spark a cultural revolution. They were just playing with an 808 and a melody, making music for the love of it. What they called “the bones” ended up as the foundation of the South’s sound . Though Orville Hall and Phillip Price didn’t become household names, their creation shaped generations of Southern artists . “Triggerman” became the pulse of club scenes from Memphis to New Orleans , influencing how people dance, party, and even talk. It’s not just a song—it’s a cultural artifact, passed down, sampled, flipped, and reborn time and time again. As we look back at the roots of Southern rap, “Drag Rap” deserves its flowers . It’s more than a forgotten New York track—it’s a blueprint, a bridge between coasts, and a beat that still knocks in 2025. And while the world may have slept on the Showboys when they first dropped it, their work continues to live on in the heart of every bounce beat, every 808, and every Southern anthem that moves the crowd. From Queens to the Big Easy, from mixtapes to Billboard—Triggerman changed the game.

A new voice is making noise in the rap scene, and his name is DeeBlack1Thou . The buzzing rapper just dropped the visuals for his latest track “Plates” , and it’s already turning heads. From his delivery to his storytelling, DeeBlack1Thou is showing early signs of star potential. We recently discovered his music, and it didn’t take long to see that he’s coming with hunger, talent, and a style that stands out. “Plates” showcases his sharp flow, raw authenticity, and the kind of presence that makes you want to keep watching. If he keeps applying pressure like this, DeeBlack1Thou is well on his way to becoming one of the next rising stars in the game. Make sure you tap in early, check out the new music video, and follow him on Instagram @deeblack1thou .

At just 16 years old , Red Top defied all odds, amassing a fortune that made her a teenage millionaire  and leaving a mark on Harlem’s history that still resonates today. Known for her extravagant lifestyle, she was a striking sight, often arriving at school draped in fur coats, confidently boasting to her teachers that she could make $300,000 in a single month . Her generosity matched her wealth — she frequently treated teachers and classmates to lavish shopping sprees, sharing her good fortune with those around her. Red Top’s meteoric rise was fueled by her close ties to Harlem’s underworld power players. Earning the respect of kingpins Frank Matthews  and Frank Lucas , she was given an unusual mark of authority: the right to stamp her work with “DOA” — Dead on Arrival . Her beauty was equally as legendary as her hustle, sparking envy and even tensions between prominent figures like Peewee Kirkland  and Freddie Myers . She moved effortlessly among Harlem’s elite, rubbing shoulders with names like West Indian Chuck , Stevie Baker , and Cisco Kid , cementing her reputation as a true player in the game. But her life, as vibrant as it was, met a tragic end. In a cruel twist of fate, Red Top was accidentally caught in the crossfire  between Black Sunday  — the bodyguard of drug lord Nicky Barnes — and a man who owed Barnes money. The bullet that took her life ended the reign of Harlem’s young queenpin at just 17 years old . Her funeral was a grand affair, befitting her status. Nicky Barnes spared no expense, even paying Sammy Davis Jr.  to perform, while Harlem’s most notorious figures came to pay their respects. After her passing, her family discovered $4 million  hidden in one of her Riverdale condos, along with two Cadillacs — one sleek black and the other with striking white-and-red interiors — symbols of the empire she had built before adulthood. Maxine “Red Top” Walters’ story is one of ambition, charisma, and tragedy — a rare tale of a young woman who conquered Harlem’s streets in an era dominated by men, only to fall victim to the same world that made her a legend. Her name still echoes in Harlem’s history as a reminder of both the allure and the dangers of the game.

When people talk about Louisiana’s rap scene, cities like New Orleans and Baton Rouge usually dominate the conversation. But Monroe, Louisiana  has a new voice demanding attention — and his name is Li Danger . Emerging as one of the hardest young rappers from the area, Li Danger is determined to put Monroe on the map. Coming from a smaller city often means having to grind twice as hard, but that pressure has only sharpened his hunger. With every release, he brings raw authenticity, undeniable energy, and a sound that reflects both his upbringing and his ambition. Li Danger isn’t just rapping for himself — he’s representing his entire hometown. His mission is clear: broadcast Monroe, Louisiana to the world and prove that stars can rise from anywhere. And if he continues dropping heat and staying consistent, it’s only a matter of time before he becomes the next breakout artist to carry Louisiana’s legacy. Keep your eyes on Li Danger — Monroe’s next big star in the making. Follow him on Instagram: @lidanger_frmdarvisville

In the world of hip-hop, some figures make waves not just with their presence on the mic, but with the power they wield behind the scenes. One such figure was Killa Stone —a name well-known in New Orleans’ streets and music circles alike. Though many associate the Cash Money classic "Still Fly"  with the Big Tymers, few know that Killa Stone played a pivotal role in writing the track that became one of the label’s most iconic hits. Born and raised in New Orleans, Alvin Nelson aka Killa Stone earned early recognition not through music but through his boxing abilities. His reputation for breaking jaws and dominating fights in juvenile detention spread throughout the Magnolia Projects. Stone wasn't just feared—he was respected. But his story took a creative turn when he entered the rap game, influenced heavily by his affiliation with New Orleans legend Soulja Slim . His lyrical talent and streetwise insight made him an invaluable contributor to Cash Money Records , where he would eventually contribute to the platinum-selling anthem “Still Fly.” Stone’s street persona extended far beyond muscle. He was known to make calculated decisions. One well-known story recounts how he prevented a potentially deadly situation involving a plot by Gangsta (another prominent New Orleans figure) to rob and murder some visitors from New York. Stone opposed the idea, understanding the consequences that could arise if things went wrong. It was a moment that showed not only street code but street wisdom . Still, the streets remained dangerous territory. After Gangsta stole bricks from Stone’s stash house, retaliation came swiftly. Stone reportedly torched Gangsta’s Infiniti truck right in front of his mother’s house—just days before Christmas. It was a move that demonstrated Stone’s willingness to defend his name at all costs. Time and reflection have a way of softening even the hardest hearts. When Gangsta was later incarcerated on federal charges, he and Stone eventually reconciled during a conversation while both were facing time. Unfortunately, Killa Stone’s journey would come to a premature end. He died behind bars due to natural causes, closing the chapter on a life that was as turbulent as it was influential. While Killa Stone never became a household name, his pen game and street legend live on. His contribution to “Still Fly” helped define the early 2000s sound of New Orleans and gave voice to a generation navigating fame, struggle, and survival. In the streets and studios of New Orleans, Killa Stone's name still carries weight. Whether remembered for his raw energy, his writing, or the life he lived on his terms, Stone’s legacy remains etched in Southern hip-hop history. Rest in Power, Killa Stone .

Singer and prolific songwriter Journey Montana  is back with a brand-new release, and this one is already turning heads. Her latest track, “My Man,”  is a smooth, confident, and emotionally charged record that showcases exactly why she’s considered one of the most unforgettable rising voices in today’s R&B scene. Journey Montana has a rare gift — her voice carries a cool, effortless tone, while her lyrics remain deeply authentic and relatable. It’s a combination that makes her music linger long after the song ends. From heartbreak to healing, from self-reflection to empowerment, she knows how to translate real emotions into melodies that resonate across generations. With “My Man,” she continues to elevate her sound. The track is vibrant, catchy, and layered with the signature storytelling that fans adore. Whether you’re discovering her for the first time or already familiar with her growing catalog, this newest release is impossible to ignore. Journey Montana is clearly an artist destined for greatness — and this new single is just another step in her rise. Make sure you stream “My Man”  on all platforms and follow her on Instagram @JourneyMontana  to stay tapped in with her journey.

In the shadows of 1970s Harlem, Leroy “Nicky” Barnes  reigned supreme. A charismatic and calculating figure in New York City’s criminal underworld, Barnes built a drug empire that earned him wealth, power, and the nickname “Mr. Untouchable.”  But while many law enforcement efforts tried and failed to bring him down, it was a single magazine cover —bold, defiant, and unforgettable—that ultimately triggered his downfall. Barnes’ journey from a small-time hustler to a heroin kingpin  was marked by strategy and street smarts. As the head of a powerful syndicate, Barnes oversaw a tightly controlled heroin distribution network across New York, known as The Council —a criminal organization modeled after the Mafia, with strict rules and ruthless enforcement. He wasn't just a street dealer; Barnes styled himself as a businessman, often dressing in designer suits and flaunting his wealth. His larger-than-life persona made him a legend in the streets, a figure both admired and feared. In 1977 , Barnes agreed to be featured on the cover of The New York Times Magazine , a decision that would prove catastrophic. The publication had planned to run a story on the drug epidemic, and when they couldn’t secure his cooperation, they threatened to use a mugshot. In an effort to control his public image, Barnes agreed to a professional photoshoot, donning a red, white, and blue tie —perhaps a symbolic attempt to appear patriotic or respectable. But the cover had the opposite effect. It enraged President Jimmy Carter , who was reportedly shocked by the glamorization of a known drug dealer on the front of a national publication. The photograph sent a clear message: Nicky Barnes felt untouchable. The photo ignited a political and legal firestorm. By January 1978 , Barnes was arrested, tried, and sentenced to life without parole . Yet, despite the sentence, his grip on The Council remained intact—until betrayal shattered his world from within. While behind bars, Barnes learned that Guy Fisher , one of his top protégés, was romantically involved with Shamecca , Barnes’ longtime mistress. In the code of the streets, this was the ultimate betrayal. Feeling disrespected and abandoned by the very men he had once mentored, Barnes made a shocking move: he turned informant. He provided federal authorities with detailed testimony about The Council and other criminal operations. His cooperation helped dismantle one of the most powerful drug organizations in the country. In exchange, Barnes was granted a reduced sentence  and placed in the witness protection program , living out the rest of his life under a new identity. Leroy “Nicky” Barnes died in 2012 , far from the fame, power, and notoriety he once knew. His death was not publicly reported until 2019, a reflection of the life of secrecy he lived after turning government witness. Though removed from the limelight, Barnes' story continues to captivate popular culture , inspiring books, documentaries, and films. Barnes' legacy is one of contradictions— brilliance and betrayal , power and paranoia , loyalty and revenge . His downfall, sparked by a single magazine cover, serves as a poignant reminder of how ego and exposure can be just as dangerous as any rival on the street. In the end, it wasn’t the drugs, the law, or a gang war that brought Nicky Barnes down—it was a photograph , and the hubris behind it. A kingpin’s rise and fall captured forever in ink and paper, symbolizing the fragile line between power and self-destruction.