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New Orleans has always been a city full of musical gems, and rising singer-songwriter 4FUN.  is quickly proving he’s one to watch. The talented artist just released his latest single, “Angel Eyes,”  a smooth and heartfelt track that showcases his vocal range, creative style, and undeniable star potential. 4FUN. isn’t new to hard work or legacy. As the son of legendary New Orleans jeweler Sol of Sol’s Jewelry , he’s grown up around hustle, entrepreneurship, and excellence. While contributing to the family business, he has also been consistently grinding in the studio, sharpening his sound and building his identity as an artist. “Angel Eyes” is a standout record — melodic, polished, and crafted with the kind of emotion that sticks with listeners. It’s the type of song that makes you hit replay, and we believe it has all the makings of a hit. If 4FUN.  continues at this pace, the sky is truly the limit for him. His talent, work ethic, and growing fan base are lining up perfectly for a breakout moment. Make sure you stream his new single “Angel Eyes”  on all platforms and follow him on Instagram @doingit4fun  to tap into what's next.

Warren Mayes stands as one of the true pioneers of New Orleans hip-hop, remembered not just for his talent but for blazing a trail no one had walked before. As the first rapper from New Orleans to sign a major record deal—with Atlantic Records—Mayes played an instrumental role in shaping the city’s rap identity during a time when the South had yet to be recognized as a serious force in hip-hop. Raised in the 9th ward but made his name in the 4th Ward’s Iberville Projects alongside eight siblings, Warren Mayes was immersed in a world of raw rhythm and cultural richness. He came up during an era before bounce music exploded and long before Cash Money and No Limit Records became household names. Mayes’ sound was both polished and gritty—bridging the gap between the streets of New Orleans and the mainstream. Before the city had a well-defined hip-hop sound, Mayes was creating music that turned heads far beyond Louisiana. His early work, including his debut “Doin Them Right” , was self-produced yet sonically on par with East Coast productions, leading many to assume he hailed from New York. Alongside fellow local legend Sporty T, Mayes helped put New Orleans rap on the map with authenticity and hustle. His defining moment came with the release of “Get It Girl” , a track that became an undeniable anthem in the city. DJ Captain Charles recalls being handed the cassette directly from Mayes—a moment that would change the local music scene. The song's debut during a community event at A.L. Davis Park caused an eruption of excitement, confirming Mayes’ status as a local star and catching the attention of Atlantic Records. But Warren Mayes wasn’t just a rapper. He was a true entrepreneur—show promoter, producer, and businessman. His daughter, known as G Baby, remembers her father not just as a music icon but as a multi-faceted visionary who never stopped pushing boundaries. Tragically, Warren Mayes' life was cut short on July 31, 1999, when he was shot and killed while leaving a club. The city mourned the loss of a rising star, but his legacy didn’t end there. G Baby has since stepped into the spotlight, continuing her father’s legacy while shedding light on the man behind the music. Contrary to earlier reports, Mayes was the proud father of 21 children—his influence runs deep both in music and in life. Warren Mayes will forever be remembered as a trailblazer, a visionary who paved the way for generations of New Orleans rappers. From his roots in the Iberville Projects to his groundbreaking deal with Atlantic Records, his story is etched into the foundation of Southern hip-hop history. His legacy is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep love for the culture that shaped him.

Ricky Donnell "Freeway Rick" Ross is a man whose life story could rival any Hollywood script—and arguably has. Once known as a notorious drug kingpin during the height of the 1980s crack epidemic, Ross has since undergone a transformation few could have predicted. Today, he's an advocate for critical thinking, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment. His life has not only influenced pop culture, including the hit TV series Snowfall  and the namesake of rapper Rick Ross, but also stands as a powerful testimony to redemption, resilience, and real reform. Ross's early years were defined by both promise and hardship. A talented tennis player, his dreams of a college scholarship were cut short due to illiteracy. But his ambition didn’t fade—it simply took a detour. Introduced to crack cocaine in 1979, Ross found himself immersed in an underground world that would soon reshape American cities and politics. Between 1982 and 1989, Ross earned his infamous moniker “Freeway” due to the properties he owned along Los Angeles’ Interstate 110. During this time, he built one of the largest drug empires the country had ever seen. Federal prosecutors later estimated his operation generated more than $900 million  in gross revenue. He became a central figure in the narrative of America’s War on Drugs—a period where systemic inequality, politics, and poverty intersected violently in urban communities. In 1996, Ross’s reign came to an abrupt halt when he was sentenced to life in prison under the “three strikes” law. But his story didn’t end there. While incarcerated, Ross taught himself to read and study law—eventually discovering a loophole that led to his release in 2009. Investigative reporting during this time uncovered the now-infamous links between Ross’s suppliers and the CIA's involvement in the Iran-Contra affair, further complicating the legacy of the drug epidemic in America. Since his release, Freeway Rick Ross has become a powerful voice for those society often overlooks. He speaks openly about his past not to glorify it, but to warn against it and to inspire change. He believes the FX television series Snowfall  is a thinly veiled version of his life story—crafted without his consent or proper recognition. Yet, instead of focusing on legal battles, Ross channels his energy into uplifting others and telling his story his way. Ross’s mission today is rooted in empowerment. He champions reading, entrepreneurship, and mental discipline as tools for transformation. Books like Think and Grow Rich  and The Richest Man in Babylon  are among his recommended reads for anyone looking to escape cycles of poverty and oppression. He speaks at schools, prisons, and community centers, advocating for critical thinking and self-belief as the keys to long-term success. Looking ahead, Freeway Rick Ross is focused on leaving behind a legacy that empowers. His website offers merchandise, community contests, and a platform to continue sharing his truth. He remains deeply connected to his followers through social media and public speaking engagements, proving that even the most troubled paths can lead to purpose and progress. Freeway Rick Ross’s story is more than a tale of crime and consequence—it’s a blueprint for redemption. From illiteracy and incarceration to legal brilliance and community activism, Ross has become a living example of transformation. His influence has stretched into music, television, and public discourse, but his most significant work is being done in classrooms, boardrooms, and neighborhoods across the country. In reclaiming his narrative, Rick Ross is redefining legacy—not just for himself, but for generations to come. Follow Freeway Rick Ross: Instagram: @FreewayRicky Website: www.freewayrickyross.com

In the ever-evolving world of R&B, one artist’s twist of fate can often become another’s golden opportunity. This was precisely the case when legendary songstress Anita Baker found herself stepping back from a project due to her pregnancy—unintentionally helping to launch the career of one of R&B’s most iconic voices: Toni Braxton. Originally written by Babyface, "Love Shoulda Brought You Home" was penned with Anita Baker in mind. The track, brimming with emotional intensity and romantic lament, perfectly fit the rich vocal style Baker was known for. However, when the opportunity arose to record the song, Baker was expecting a child and decided it wasn’t the right time to commit to the project. Rather than let the song disappear into obscurity, Baker made a pivotal suggestion. She recommended a young singer who had recently recorded the demo version of the track—none other than Toni Braxton. Impressed by Braxton’s vocal ability and emotional delivery, Babyface followed Baker’s lead and handed the song over to the promising new talent. The result? A career-defining debut. Released in 1992, "Love Shoulda Brought You Home" became Toni Braxton’s breakout single. The song’s success helped solidify her as a rising star, introducing the world to her sultry voice and setting the tone for a series of chart-topping hits that would follow. It also served as a standout on the soundtrack for the film Boomerang , where it was first introduced to audiences. Toni Braxton would go on to become a Grammy-winning artist known for classics like "Un-Break My Heart," "You Mean the World to Me," and "Breathe Again." And yet, the catalyst for her meteoric rise can be traced back to Anita Baker’s selfless recommendation during a transformative period in her own life. What could have been a missed opportunity for one legendary singer became the beginning of another’s legendary legacy. It’s a powerful reminder of how women in music can uplift each other, even in moments of personal transition. Anita Baker’s intuition and generosity gave birth to a moment that changed R&B forever—ushering in the era of Toni Braxton.

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

In the 1990s,  Rafael Pérez  became one of the most infamous names in Los Angeles law enforcement—a man whose actions would ultimately inspire Denzel Washington’s Oscar-winning portrayal of Detective Alonzo Harris in the 2001 crime thriller  Training Day . Pérez’s career, which began with the prestige of a badge, spiraled into one of the most notorious police corruption scandals in U.S. history. A  former U.S. Marine , Pérez joined the LAPD in 1989 and quickly earned a reputation in the  Rampart Division —a gritty, high-crime area just west of downtown LA—for his bold, aggressive style. Assigned to the “buy team” in the department’s anti-narcotics unit, he was tasked with going undercover, purchasing drugs from street dealers, and building criminal cases. But over time, Pérez blurred the line between officer and outlaw. By the mid-1990s, that line had completely vanished. Instead of turning in seized narcotics as evidence, Pérez began  stealing and selling the drugs himself . His corruption escalated to the point where he was pilfering pounds of cocaine—not just from street busts, but directly from LAPD evidence rooms. Off duty, he was seen in the company of  Bloods gang members , partying with the very criminals he was supposed to be putting behind bars. The façade crumbled in  1998 , when Pérez’s activities came to light, triggering the now-infamous  Rampart Scandal . The fallout was massive: over  70 LAPD officers  were implicated in misconduct, ranging from evidence tampering to false arrests. The revelations shattered public trust in the department and exposed systemic flaws in oversight and accountability. Pérez’s downfall and moral collapse became the blueprint for Washington’s Detective Alonzo Harris—a charismatic but deeply corrupt cop whose manipulation of power blurs the lines between justice and criminality. Washington’s portrayal was so compelling it earned him the  Academy Award for Best Actor , cementing the film’s place in pop culture history. Today, Rafael Pérez’s story stands as a  grim cautionary tale —a reminder that unchecked authority can breed corruption, and that even those sworn to protect and serve can become the very criminals they once pursued.

Legendary singer Chaka Khan , known for her powerhouse vocals and timeless hits, has never been one to hold back her opinions — and that includes her thoughts on other artists covering her classics. One of the most talked-about moments in recent R&B history came when Chaka candidly admitted she wasn’t a fan of Mary J. Blige’s version of “Sweet Thing.” The song, originally recorded by Rufus featuring Chaka Khan  in 1975, became an R&B staple and one of Chaka’s signature tracks. So when Mary J. Blige  released her own rendition on her 1992 debut album What’s the 411? , it was meant as a tribute to the Queen of Funk herself. However, Chaka didn’t quite see it that way. In a now-infamous interview, Chaka Khan openly stated that she felt Mary J. Blige “f’d the song up,”  expressing disappointment in how her classic had been reimagined. Her blunt honesty sparked waves of discussion in the music community, with some fans agreeing that the original remains untouchable — while others defended Mary’s soulful, raw interpretation as a heartfelt homage. Despite the controversy, both women have continued to command immense respect in the music industry. Chaka Khan remains an icon of funk, soul, and R&B whose influence spans generations, while Mary J. Blige is celebrated as the “Queen of Hip-Hop Soul,” inspiring countless artists with her emotional depth and authenticity. In later years, Chaka clarified that her comments weren’t meant to tear Mary down, but to express how protective she felt over her work — especially songs that carry deep personal meaning. And truthfully, both versions of “Sweet Thing”  have earned their place in R&B history — one as a groundbreaking original, and the other as a bold reinterpretation that helped define an era. Whether you prefer Chaka’s silky original or Mary’s gritty, heartfelt cover, one thing is undeniable: “Sweet Thing”  continues to be one of the most beloved love songs in soul music — proof that true classics never fade, they just evolve.

New Orleans East native Eastside Kidd  is back and making noise with the release of his brand-new album, “Eastside 2” , a 10-track project that further cements his place as one of the city’s most promising artists. Packed with energy, raw emotion, and authenticity, this album showcases exactly why Eastside Kidd deserves far more recognition than he’s been getting. For years, Eastside Kidd has been grinding nonstop, building his name in the streets and carving out his own lane in the New Orleans music scene. Despite the talent he brings to the table, he remains one of the city’s most underrated artists — but “Eastside 2”  proves that he’s ready to change that narrative. Every track on the album captures the essence of New Orleans East, blending grit, passion, and real-life storytelling. Eastside Kidd’s hunger is undeniable, and his growth as an artist shines throughout the project. With the right consistency, there is no doubt he has the potential to be the next major artist to break out of New Orleans . If you haven’t tapped in yet, now is the perfect time. Stream “Eastside 2” on all platforms  and follow Eastside Kidd on Instagram at @_eastsidekidd  to stay updated on his journey.

Rising star SIA AMUN  is back with her brand new single “Somebody’s Somebody” , and it’s already making waves—landing on four major playlists across Apple Music and Tidal . The track is a smooth, emotionally charged offering that highlights her ability to blend sensuality, spirituality, and truth into one unforgettable sound. Known for her velvet voice and fearless honesty , SIA AMUN continues to establish herself as one of the most authentic voices in modern R&B. Every lyric she pens carries weight and emotion, pulling listeners into her world of love, growth, and self-discovery. SIA’s journey hasn’t been an easy one. After facing eviction at just 15 years old , she made the bold choice to pursue music instead of the streets , channeling her pain and resilience into her art. That decision led her through countless studio sessions and writers’ rooms  with some of the industry’s biggest names, shaping her into the refined artist she is today. Now stepping into her spotlight, SIA AMUN is ready to claim her place as one of R&B’s most compelling storytellers. “Somebody’s Somebody”  is more than just a song—it’s a statement of self-worth and emotional honesty that resonates deeply with anyone who’s ever wanted to feel seen and loved. Stream SIA AMUN’s new single “Somebody’s Somebody”  on all platforms and follow her journey on Instagram @siaamun .

In one of the most bizarre high school sports scandals in recent memory, a 25-year-old man named Sidney Bouvier Gilstrap-Portley  was accused of posing as a 17-year-old student  to join a Dallas high school basketball team. Authorities say Gilstrap-Portley, originally from the Dallas area, claimed to be a Hurricane Harvey evacuee  to gain sympathy and access to Hillcrest High School. Using this false identity, he was able to enroll as a student and quickly made his way onto the school’s basketball team. Standing out on the court, the 25-year-old dominated against teenagers, raising suspicions after his stellar performances drew more attention than expected. Investigators later confirmed that Gilstrap-Portley had graduated years earlier, making his return to high school both fraudulent and alarming. While no one was harmed physically, the incident raised serious questions about school security, enrollment processes, and the safety of students . Parents voiced concerns over how someone of his age could have bypassed multiple checkpoints in the school system. Gilstrap-Portley was later arrested and charged with tampering with government records , among other potential charges. The case serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of vigilance in verifying student identities. Though this strange scheme temporarily gave him another chance at a basketball career, it ultimately ended in scandal and legal trouble — reminding everyone that, in sports and in life, there are no shortcuts to success.

Few tales capture the mix of heartbreak, controversy, and scandal quite like the union between R&B legend Bobby Womack and Barbara Cooke, widow of the iconic soul singer Sam Cooke. Their story, which stirred widespread media frenzy and public outrage, is a testament to the deeply personal trials faced by artists navigating the intense pressures of fame and tragedy. The timeline leading up to Bobby Womack and Barbara Cooke's marriage could easily be mistaken for a dramatic film plot. Only 77 days after Sam Cooke’s shocking death in December 1964, 20-year-old Womack and Barbara, then 10 years his senior, took the bold step of attempting to marry. Adding fuel to the already raging fire, Womack chose to wear one of Sam Cooke’s suits to the courthouse, a gesture many viewed as a brazen disrespect toward the memory of the beloved musician. The couple faced an initial setback when the courthouse denied their marriage application due to Womack’s age and his lack of parental consent. However, they persevered and wed on March 5, 1965, the day after Womack’s 21st birthday. But instead of a new beginning, this marriage set off a whirlwind of animosity and judgment that reshaped Womack’s life and career. The music industry’s response was swift and unforgiving. Once a respected guitarist and a core member of Sam Cooke’s band, Womack became a pariah. DJs who once championed his music turned against him, while audiences and colleagues shunned him. The backlash extended to Cooke’s family as well, resulting in a physical confrontation with Cooke’s brothers, Charles and David, who lashed out at Womack for what they saw as a betrayal of Sam’s memory. This scandal solidified the public’s worst suspicions about the opportunistic side of the music industry, where grief and tragedy seemed to be overshadowed by shocking relationships and controversies. Though Womack maintained that his initial intentions were to console Barbara in her grief, the public and industry figures remained unswayed, further isolating him. Womack and Barbara’s marriage remained rocky, and in 1970, their relationship hit an even darker note when Barbara discovered his affair with her daughter, Linda Cooke. The revelation led to a heated confrontation in which Barbara, in a fit of rage, fired a gun at Womack. Though he narrowly escaped the altercation unscathed, the incident ultimately signaled the end of their marriage, and they divorced in 1971. The fallout of this affair strained the family’s relationships, particularly between Linda and Barbara, adding another tragic layer to an already complex story. The controversial marriage of Bobby Womack and Barbara Cooke remains an indelible, turbulent chapter in the world of soul music. It sheds light on the intense pressures faced by those in the limelight and the intertwining of personal and public lives in a way that leaves lasting scars. This saga stands as a cautionary tale of the consequences that can emerge from moments of vulnerability, grief, and emotional volatility.

Born in California and raised amid the vibrant rhythms of South Florida, YNTRA  has just dropped her highly anticipated new album, “I Owe It 2 Myself” , featuring 11 captivating tracks  that showcase her growth, soul, and musical brilliance. Currently based in Broward County , YNTRA continues to carve out her space in today’s music landscape, blending passion, authenticity, and artistry into every note. From an early age, YNTRA was inspired by the legendary Alicia Keys , whose artistry and emotion ignited her own creative journey. That influence shines through in YNTRA’s sound — a fusion of soulful melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and empowering energy  that captures the listener from start to finish. “I Owe It 2 Myself”  isn’t just an album title; it’s a statement of self-belief and resilience. Each song reflects YNTRA’s dedication to her craft and her determination to stay true to who she is. It’s a body of work that speaks to anyone chasing their dreams while overcoming life’s challenges. With this release, YNTRA continues to prove that she’s a force to be reckoned with — an artist who not only creates music but tells stories that resonate deeply with her audience. Make sure to stream “I Owe It 2 Myself” on all major platforms  and stay connected with YNTRA’s journey by following her on Instagram @yntra.wav .