Killer Mike Dominates Grammy Awards
Killer Mike triumphs at the 2024 Grammys, winning Best Rap Album, Song, and Performance with an impactful 14-track project blending gospel, soul, and hip-hop influences. We discuss it here!
Killer Mike poses with one of his Grammy awards at the 2024 Grammys.
Photo Credit: Getty Images for The Recording Academy
By: Joshua Martin
Atlanta native and activist Killer Mike had an impressive showing at the 2024 Grammys, capturing the win for Best Rap Album, Best Rap Song, and Best Rap Performance. All thanks to Michael, a 14-track ensemble laced with influences from gospel, soul, and hip-hop. The Moorehouse graduate in an interview labeled the project an “come home moment musically” and as a way to honor the Civil Rights and the Abolishment movements.
Basking in the glow of his recent wins, the 48-year-old shared a bit of wisdom to the adulating audience.
“You can make one hit song, make 10 hit songs. The only thing stopping you, the only limitation you have is your imagination. It’s our opportunity; it is our must. It is our absolute responsibility to be grand in every action. For 20 years I’ve been saying, ‘I can do it, I can do it, I can do it.’ Then in the 20th year of Hip-Hop, here I am doing it.”
Later that evening, Killer Mike shared his thoughts on his remarkable feat during Black History Month and how he views Hip Hop as a whole. Calling his hometown of Atlanta,GA “the Capital of Black America” while also shouting out his city's legends who had a hand in producing Atlanta’s diverse musical sound.
“Whether it’s Kenny Mason, Killer Mike, Outkast, T.I., or Jeezy, we are giving you a plethora of styles that you should be listening to.”
KILLER MIKE Backstage At The 2024 GRAMMYs
During his acceptance speech, the “Scientists & Engineers” rapper let it be known that he intends to dominate Hip Hop and the Grammys again next year. Promising to work even harder and produce more groundbreaking music.
View his acceptance speech here:
Killer Mike Wins Best Rap Performance For "SCIENTISTS & ENGINEERS" | 2024 GRAMMYs Acceptance Speech
Sunday night marked Killer Mike’s first Grammy Award victory since 2003, when he won for his feature on Outkast’s “The Whole World” in the best rap performance by a duo or group category. He was also nominated for best rap song in 2018 for “Chase Me” by Run the Jewels, his hip hop duo with fellow rapper and producer El-P.
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21 Savage Announces New Album 'American Dream' and Biopic Set To Release
21 Savage is set to release his third solo album, American Dream, and a biopic starring Donald Glover and Caleb McLaughlin. We discuss it here!
21 Savage attends the Red Carpet at the 2018 Billboards Music Awards at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada USA on May 20th 2018
Credit: Jamie Lamor Thompson/Shutterstock
By: Omar Cook
It’s been since 2018 that Atlanta rapper, 21 Savage, released his last solo LP, I Am > I Was. For 21 Savage fans…the wait is over. Today, he announced the imminent release of his latest album, "American Dream," scheduled to drop this Friday, January 12. 21 Savage is looking to mirror the success of his last solo project which hit number one on the Billboard 200 chart and also was RIAA-certified Platinum in 2020.
The year is just beginning and 21 Savage is coming out with a bang. On Monday, 21 Savage revealed plans for a biographical movie titled American Dream: The 21 Savage Story, featuring Donald Glover and Caleb McLaughlin. This is pretty dope as a young artist to tell his story to the world.
american dream: the 21 savage story | Official Trailer
21 Savage’s last two projects were joint projects, including SAVAGE MODE II with Metro Boomin, and Her Loss with Drake which is currently in the running for Best Rap album at the 2024 Grammys. With a movie and a new solo album on the way, you can expect a heavy dose of success for 21 Savage this year and some hot new music on the way.
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Latto Generously Donates $500K at Her Third Annual 'Christmas In Clayco' Event
Latto spreads holiday cheer with her third 'Christmas in Clayco' event, donating over $500,000 in gifts and debuting a festive new single, 'Grinch Freestyle.' We discuss it here!
LOS ANGELES - Latto appears at the 2022 Billboard Music Awards at MGM Garden Arena on May 15, 2022 in Las Vegas, NV
Credit: Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock
By: Joshua Martin
In her efforts to spread a little holiday cheer this Christmas season, Atlanta based rapper Latto did just that and then some with her 3rd annual ‘Christmas in Clayco’ event in Atlanta’s Clayton county, which is also her hometown.
WE LOVE TO SEE IT🎄| Latto put in on da floor for kids with her 3rd annual ‘Christmas in Clayco’ toy drive! 👏🏾 pic.twitter.com/vj3zysjmHZ
— KenBarbie™ (@itsKenBarbie) December 17, 2023
The “Big Energy” hitmaker donated over $500,000 in gifts from brands she worked with recently, including UGG, Savage x Fenty, Apple, Liquid Death, Wingstop, Rap Snacks, HALLS, Camille Rose and more. This hefty donation was twice the amount she contributed a year prior.
The proceeds were presented by her Win Some Give Some foundation. Established in 2021, the organization lends a helping hand to at-risk youth, providing them with resources and self esteem support to achieve a lifetime of equal opportunity and success.
“We are ecstatic to bring back Christmas in Clayton for the third time. This event allows us to give back to Clayton County residents and children just in time for the holidays.”
Anderson thanked the rapper as the two greeted children and gave away toys at the Clayton State University Gymnasium.
“Words cannot express how amazing it is to have Latto return to Clayton County to help spread some holiday cheer throughout our community. Her generosity is sincerely appreciated for our children and our community.”
Sticking with the Christmas vibes, Latto also gave her fans new music. Teaming up with rising Florida rapper Luh Tyler to drop her single “Grinch Freestyle”.
Luh Tyler - The Grinch Freestyle (feat. Latto) [Official Music Video]
Last year, Latto was honored with a key to the city, while also receiving her own day coined “Latto Day” every Dec. 18th in Clayton county.
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Offset Returns for the 2nd Annual 'Toyz 4 The Nawf' Christmas Charity Event
Offset has joined forces with the Ann Cephus Family Fund Corporation to bring back his yearly Toys 4 The Nawf Christmas charity event. We discuss it here!
Offsett poses for a photoshoot during the 2023 Grammys. (Shutterstock)
By: Joshua Martin
In collaboration with the Ann Cephus Family Fund Corporation, Grammy nominated rapper Offset has announced his second annual Christmas charity event, Toys 4 The Nawf. The fashion influencer and philanthropist decided to bring back the event after a successful turnout last December, where he and his team were able to donate gifts, supplies and holiday cheer to families in need. One third of the iconic musical group Migos, Set, is set to return to Gwinnett, GA., on Saturday (Dec. 2) with a festive Christmas themed carnival and toy giveaway.
“We had a great turn out last year, and I’m hoping for an even better one this year. I’ve been so blessed this year, I’m excited to bless others. That’s the reason for the season.”
The event has supported over 248 families, including nearly 500 children per press release. This incredible feat was made possible by the assurance of over 80 community volunteers and organizations including the Lawrenceville Boys & Girls Club, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Last year Offset was presented with an Honorary Key to Gwinnett County and a key to the city of Lawrenceville, Ga because of the many contributions that totaled $35,000 in toys and logistical supplies.
This year, Offset has a more ambitious goal of doubling the number of families served from last year. By providing winter coats for families, offering on-site wellness checks, which will include immunizations and blood pressure checks, while bringing attention to the importance of Internet access for all through the Internet Affordable Connectivity Program. His team will also be providing barber services for kids and offer a festive Christmas carnival.
More information can be found on the Toys 4 The Nawf website that includes details on how to contribute and volunteer.
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T.I. and Tiny Reveal Their Affordable Housing Complex in Atlanta
T.I. and Tameka "Tiny" Harris have revealed their inaugural affordable housing complex, featuring over 100 units in T.I.'s former neighborhood. We discuss it here!
Atlanta, Georgia USA - September 30 2022: T.I AND TINY at the 2022 BET HIP HOP AWARDS
Credit: Franklin Sheard Jr via Shutterstock
By: Adonis Armstrong
T.I., the Atlanta rapper and mogul, along with his wife Tiny, has partnered with Missouri's Vecino Group to catalyze a transformative change in Atlanta's housing landscape. The unveiling of Intrada Westside, a completely affordable housing community, was commemorated with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by prominent figures, including Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Atlanta Housing COO Terri Lee.
Located at 2174 – 2176 Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway, Intrada Westside signifies a major achievement in Atlanta's pursuit of affordable housing solutions. Comprising 140 residential units, the development underscores inclusivity by allocating 25 units to permanent supportive housing (PSH) through Atlanta Housing’s HomeFlex-HAVEN initiative.
“The arts and entertainment industry in this city has been able to collaborate and be, I guess, profitable enough to offer the community so many things that are much-needed.”
Beyond housing, the development integrates commercial and retail spaces, bolstering local economic growth and fostering opportunities for nearby businesses. Intrada Westside also features community gardens, nurturing a sense of community and well-being among its residents.
Intrada Westside stands as a testament to the strength of community collaboration. With T.I.'s engagement and Atlanta Housing's dedication to addressing homelessness via supportive housing, this project represents hope and advancement in Atlanta's affordable housing sphere. It showcases how unified efforts and a joint commitment to fostering inclusive communities can drive substantial progress in meeting diverse housing needs and creating stronger neighborhoods in the city.
T.I. breaks bread in Bankhead, helping fund affordable apartments | FOX 5 News
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Gunna Sells Out Barclays Center in First Show Since Jail Release
Gunna's electrifying comeback show at Barclays Center sets the stage for his A Gift and A Curse Tour, featuring fan-favorite hits and a display of support for Young Thug. We Discuss it here!
Gunna performs in concert in the Netherlands
Credit: Ben Houdijk/Shutterstock
By: Joshua Martin
Gunna set the stage ablaze in his first sold-out show, 'The Gift,' since being released from jail, and the fans loved it. He performed every song off of his new LP from start to finish. The Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, was the site where the YSL affiliate graced the stage for the first time since his release in December 2022.
His set include hits songs like "Hot," "Back At It," and most notably the viral hit "F*kumean."
Gunna performs “fukumean” for the first time pic.twitter.com/YeV1hnkZzb
— YOUNG STONER LIFE (@YoungStonerLife) September 10, 2023
Gunna also showed support for YSL leader Young Thug, opening the show with a large sign that read “Free Jeffrey” according to reports. Young Thug’s legal name is Jeffrey Williams Jr.
Gunna performed Young Thug’s verse on “Hot” during his concert in Brooklyn tonight.
— XXL Magazine (@XXL) September 10, 2023
“Free Jeffery” pic.twitter.com/yB29vJCZV9
Gunna’s performance at the Barclays Center was the first of two shows he has scheduled for this month. His next show, 'The Curse,' will take place at the YouTube Theater in Los Angeles on September 28.
Gunna is currently on tour, promoting his latest project, 'A Gift and A Curse,' which has received mixed reviews due to allegations of him cooperating with his YSL co-defendants last year. This controversy explains why he has never performed the song live. Despite the criticism, the album has earned Gunna his first top-ten single on the Billboard Hot 100 as a solo artist with "F*Kumean," which peaked at number 3 in July.
Gunna also partnered with PLUS! and the nonprofit Goodr for 'The Gift.' $1 from every ticket sold was donated to the Goodr Foundation, an organization that, according to their website, "strives to end world hunger by cultivating countless resources." If his Los Angeles show draws a substantial audience, it wouldn't be surprising to see a full-scale tour in the near future.
YSL RICO Trial Update
While Gunna is free and performing, his YSL peers are looking at a much bleaker situation. Thug and seven other defendants are facing numerous charges relating to the group's operations in Atlanta. Despite the trail starting in January, jury selection is still ongoing. In spite of renewed pleas for Young Thug to receive bond, he and many of his peers remain behind bars. The trail is set to resume in October, with many legal experts projecting that the case could last another six to 8 months.
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Young Thug's Lawyer Looking to Remove YSL Polo From RICO Trial
The ongoing RICO trial of rapper Young Thug faces a motion by his lawyer, Brian Steel, seeking to remove codefendant YSL Polo (Codarius Dorsey) due to courtroom behavior concerns. We discuss it here!
Young Thug
Photo cred: Frank Schwichtenberg
By: Gentel Sharrie
The RICO trial is still underway for rapper Young Thug. On September 1st, Brian Steel, who is Young Thug's lawyer, filed a motion to have codefendant YSL Polo (Codarius Dorsey) removed from the trial due to his sporadic movement in the courtroom. Attorney Steel feels that YSL Polo was unprofessional and could cause an unfair trial for Young Thug. Ultimately, they want YSL Polo separated from the other co-inductees. Judge Glanville does not believe YSL Polo is seeking attention.
Young Thug was indicted on RICO charges on May 9th, 2022, in Georgia. Gunna and 26 other YSL members were also indicted and charged. If you’re not familiar with YSL, it stands for Young Slime Life. Authorities are accusing YSL of being a violent street gang created by Young Thug. The 56-count indictment includes charges of armed robbery and murder. They are also accusing Young Thug of being involved in attempting to murder YFN Lucci and renting a car that was involved in a 2015 murder.
Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffery Lamar Williams, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He gained popularity in the early 2010s for his unique musical style and unconventional approach to rap. Young Thug is known for his distinctive voice, genre-blending music, and fashion-forward image.
Born on August 16, 1991, in Atlanta, Georgia, Young Thug began his musical career by releasing a series of mixtapes that gained him a loyal fanbase. His breakthrough came in 2014 with the release of his mixtape "Barter 6," which featured the hit single "Stoner." Since then, he has released numerous successful projects, including albums like "So Much Fun" and "Slime Language."
Young Thug's music is characterized by his versatile rap style, incorporating elements of trap, hip-hop, and melodic singing. He has collaborated with many notable artists across different genres, such as Travis Scott, Future, and Camila Cabello. His unique and innovative approach to music has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
In addition to his music, Young Thug has made headlines for his fashion choices, often pushing boundaries and challenging traditional gender norms with his style. He has become a fashion icon, influencing trends and breaking barriers in the industry.
Young Thug continues to be a prominent figure in the rap scene, constantly evolving and pushing artistic boundaries. His impact on the music industry and his ability to captivate listeners with his distinct sound make him a highly influential artist in today's music landscape.
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Quavo Cares Foundation Partners with Tender Foundation for Back-to-School Giveaway
Quavo and his Quavo Cares Foundation collaborated with the Tender Foundation for the second annual Ultimate Back 2 School Giveback event. We discuss it here!
Quavo attended the 2017 MTV Video Music Awards at the Forum in Inglewood, USA, on August 27, 2017.
Credit: Tinseltown/Shutterstock
By: Adonis Armstrong
In collaboration with Quavo Cares and the Tender Foundation, Quavo recently organized the second annual Ultimate Back 2 School Giveback event. Held at The Gathering Spot in Atlanta, the day was filled with community involvement and entertainment, bringing together over 270 local Atlanta residents and creating a heartwarming experience.
In honor of the late Takeoff, Quavo and his family donned jerseys with the number 94 and 'Rocket Power' as a tribute. The event not only distributed essential school supplies such as backpacks, notebooks, and pencils, but also offered a diverse range of activities for both students and families. Among the highlights were balloon animal crafting, face painting, mini basketball, and a raffle for two iPad Minis. Students had the option to select fashionable apparel from Legends and Insoles, and could indulge in popsicles from Mocha Pops. The giveaway tables were customized for different school levels, while the addition of a DJ booth, sensory station, and various games added to the festive atmosphere.
The accomplishment of this event solidifies the strong bond between Quavo Cares Foundation and Tender Foundation, underscoring their unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of Atlanta families and nurturing the potential of young individuals through education. Quavo Cares is dedicated to fostering youth growth via sports, education, and the arts. Their partnership with Tender Foundation has previously championed initiatives like the guaranteed income program for Black single mothers. The present event extends their prior endeavors, including the inaugural Back 2 School Giveback held in 2022, further demonstrating their resolute dedication to effecting positive change within the community.
#RocketPower August 18 #Back2School pic.twitter.com/dIX9e2EK5t
— QuavoYRN (@QuavoStuntin) August 6, 2023
Quavo is also preparing for the release of his upcoming album, 'Rocket Power,' dedicated to the memory of the late Takeoff. Taking to Twitter, Quavo shared that the album requires some final adjustments before its release, hinting at the need for a bit more polishing. As a result, he revealed a new release date to ensure the album meets his creative vision.
As a prominent member of the acclaimed hip-hop trio Migos, Quavo's solo work has consistently demonstrated his prowess as an artist. 'Rocket Power' is poised to showcase his evolution as he explores new sonic landscapes and dives into personal themes. With its impending release, fans can anticipate a collection of tracks that exemplify Quavo's unique blend of creativity and charisma, making 'Rocket Power' a highly anticipated addition to his discography.
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Lil Baby Hosts Back To School Festival with Foot Locker in Atlanta
Lil Baby collaborates with Foot Locker for the Second Annual Back To School Festival in Atlanta, bringing joy and support to local youth. We discuss it here!
Lil Baby poses with the Foot Locker team in Westland Mall in Atlanta during his second annual Back to School Festival. (Footlocker)
By: Adonis Armstrong
Lil Baby teamed up with Foot Locker to host the second annual Back to School Festival, spreading joy among the youth in Atlanta before the upcoming school year. The event, which took place at the Foot Locker store in Westland Mall, saw Lil Baby and Foot Locker generously donating over $300k worth of sneakers and various products to support more than 1,500 students in the local community.
Beyond providing material gifts, the event offered much more to attendees, including complimentary haircuts by The Barber Shop II, thrilling carnival games, and engaging activations, ensuring a joyous and exciting atmosphere. In collaboration with Goodr, an Atlanta-based B Corp focused on combatting food waste and hunger, the festival served nourishing meals from American Deli to all participants, exemplifying a commitment to supporting the community in multiple meaningful ways.
A little baby poses at the second annual Back to School Festival in Atlanta. (Foot Locker)
Lil Baby, the hometown hero, once again demonstrated his generosity by giving back to his community during the back-to-school season. Recently, Lil Baby has made a significant contribution to Atlanta's restaurant scene, bringing new business opportunities. He recently launched The Seafood Menu Restaurant & Lounge in the city, paying tribute to musical icons like Prince, Marvin Gaye, Ray Charles, and others in its design. During the grand opening, the 28-year-old expressed admiration for restaurants' resilience during the pandemic, which inspired him to start his venture. Excitingly, he revealed plans to expand the concept into a franchise, with multiple locations across the area.
In the midst of ongoing challenges in his career, this recent community initiative at Foot Locker highlights Lil Baby's unwavering commitment to giving back to the people. While there were concerns and disappointments surrounding his tour due to date and supporting artist issues, the rapper is moving forward with a fresh creative team led by Teyana Taylor. With this positive development, it's hoped that his shows will be successful and enable him to connect with fans in even more meaningful ways.
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Lil Baby Calls For Change at Funeral of 16 Year Old Shooting Victim Bre’Asia Powell
Hip Hop star Lil Baby calls out for change at the funeral Bre’Asia Powell, a 16 year old girl who lost her life in a shooting in Atlanta. “What I do wanna say to the like the youth and the younger generation, as a we, because I’m with y’all. We gotta change.” We discuss it here!
Bre’Asia Powell
Credit: FOX 5 NEWS/YOUTUBE
By: Omar Cook
At a funeral held on Saturday, June 3, mourners gathered to honor the memory of Bre’Asia Powell, the 16-year-old girl who tragically lost her life in a shooting outside Benjamin E. Mays High School in Atlanta. Among those in attendance was rapper Lil Baby, who used the occasion to advocate for meaningful change in the city. Lil Baby has consistently spoken out for necessary change in the city.
Fox 5 Atlanta reported that on May 28, early Sunday morning, tragedy struck when Bre’Asia Powell was fatally shot during a gathering outside her school at approximately 2:30 a.m. The 16-year-old, a junior at the school, was an active member of both the basketball and cheerleading teams. As of now, the police have yet to identify any suspects in the case, and Crime Stoppers has offered a reward of $10,000 for information leading to a resolution of this devastating incident.
Lil Baby gave a speech to the youth during the funeral of a 16-year-old girl from Atlanta who lost her life following a fight at a graduation party 🙏🏽🕊️ pic.twitter.com/fpuL5IjT5j
— No Jumper (@nojumper) June 5, 2023
Family and Friends Mourn The Passing of 16 year old Bre’Asia Powell Credit: Jenni Girtman
The service has held at Jackson Memorial Baptist Church where a number of people close to to Powell spoke at the funeral including Kamira Garrett, one of her coaches. “She was a very well-mannered kid. She was very special to us all,” Garrett stated. Atlanta City Council member Andrea L. Boone shared her condolences as well stating that she grew up in the same community as Powell and that she also “attended L.P. Miles Elementary School just like young Bre’Asia.” Atlanta rap star Lil Baby expressed that he wasn’t just there to speak on the incident, but that he wanted some real change to take place and that he would be a part of the plan to make it happen.
“What I do wanna say to the like the youth and the younger generation, as a we, because I’m with y’all. We gotta change” said Lil Baby as he opened up his speech. “I’m only here to not speak but—we gotta come up with a plan, and I’m here to help the plan.”
Last Sunday, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens spoke on Bre’asia stating “This young lady was full of life.” He also stated that Bre’asia was set to work in Atlanta’s summer youth employment program which was set to begin Tuesday
“We’re always heartbroken when anyone loses their life in our city, but especially when it’s a young person the day after school lets out,” Dickens said. This is a tragic loss for the Atlanta community, but also a wake up call that there needs to be some real plans in place to stop gun violence, especially among teens.
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Future Opens Cutting-Edge STEM Lab for Atlanta Students
Future, through his Freewishes Foundation, has launched an innovative STEM lab in Atlanta, offering interactive classes and mentorship programs to empower Black and Brown students in pursuing successful careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. We discuss it here!
By: Adonis Armstrong
Grammy award-winning rapper Future has consistently demonstrated his commitment to giving back to the Atlanta community, with initiatives such as hosting a Christmas shopping spree, renovating his high school's weight room, and establishing a scholarship for incoming college freshmen. His most recent endeavor focuses on providing students in Atlanta with the necessary skills and resources to pursue successful careers in STEM fields.
Collaborating with the Freewishes Foundation, the acclaimed rapper known as Future Hendrix has opened a cutting-edge STEM lab aimed at providing Atlanta students with exceptional learning opportunities. This state of the art facility offers interactive classes and mentorship programs in the fields of science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics, promoting access to often neglected areas of study in underserved communities. Situated in Bessie Branham Park, Kirkwood, the same neighborhood where Future himself grew up, the lab is committed to supporting aspiring students who aspire to pursue careers in STEM.
The I Am A Dreamer S.T.E.A.M. Lab was revealed by the foundation, providing an exclusive sneak peek that was shared through a heartfelt Instagram post, which can be seen below. “Our soft opening was nothing short of amazing, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact that this will have on the community,” the caption stated. “We’re so excited to be able to share our new sleek and innovative lab with the students of Atlanta. The kids in the Kirkwood area will now have the opportunity to receive access to S.T.E.A.M. education.”
“It’s important that all students receive access to STEM education regardless of their background,”the rapper stated, per AfroTech. “Our Freewishes Foundation, with the support of the 2K Foundations, has helped make this possible in our Atlanta community. We’re thankful for their commitment to support our initiative.”
Sharing a similar viewpoint, Tia Wilburn, Executive Director of the Freewishes Foundation and sister of Future, expressed the logic behind incorporating arts education into the lab's curriculum alongside science and math, as commonly known as STEAM. Wilburn emphasized the importance of offering a well-rounded educational experience that recognizes the value of creativity and artistic expression within STEM disciplines.
“We are creating a science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics lab as an extension of Freewishes’ educational initiative,” Wilburn shared. “We wanted to add art because both Future and I support creativity.”
“Our objective in providing educational opportunities is to ensure inclusive and quality education for all students regardless of income and background,” she continued. “There is a major gap in STEM education that impacts marginalized communities, and we want to close that gap so that no child is left behind.”
It's dope that Future and his team are giving back to their community. That's what it's all about: giving back and providing necessary tools for Black and Brown kids to thrive.
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Ray Lavender Talks Building His Music Career, Lessons and Sacrifices, and Keys To Success!
R&B singer Ray Lavender hit the music scene in 2007 with his hit single “My Girl Gotta Girlfriend”! After over a decade in the music industry, Ray discusses the building of his music career, lessons and sacrifices throughout his career, and what it takes to be a successful artist! Check out the interview here!
“When you listen to Ray Lavender, I want you to feel me through my music. I want you to know that I love the craft, I love the art and I love that I am blessed with the gift of song.”
By: Omar Cook
In 2007, R&B artist Ray Lavender hit the music scene in a major way, dropping his debut album X-Rayted which featured his hit single “My Girl Gotta Girlfriend”. Ray Lavender was the first artist to be signed to Akon’s Kon Live Records, which was a joint venture with Geffen Records. Ray made his way Atlanta by way of Monroe, Louisiana where he began to pursue a successful music career. 13 years later since making his debut, Ray is still producing music and has also dived into the world of acting and is preparing himself to be a mogul with a record company owner and movie production company.
Ray Lavender - My Girl Gotta Girlfriend (Dirty Ray, Closed Captioned)
We talked with Ray Lavender in an exclusive interview, check it out below!
How long have you been making music and how did you break into the music industry?
I’ve been making music for a long time ever since I can’t remember. I remember when I was 12 years old and one of my favorite songs was a song called “Two Occasions” that was written by Babyface. That’s when I began the songwriting process. I can remember writing my first song when I was 12 years old and I recorded it with no music on a little tape cassette. The song wasn’t really that good but it was my first song and that’s when the writing process began. I broke into the music industry professionally at the age of 18 years old. That is what I met Akon and Dallas Austin.
What was the creative process behind your hit song “My Girl Gotta Girlfriend” and how did your career shift due to its success?
When I wrote “My Girl Gotta Girlfriend”, I was in a really creative space at the time. I was already signed with Interscope records and Akon‘s record label but at the time the single that they had for me wasn’t a single that I wanted. So I chose to go back in my life and pick out one of the highlights of my life and I wrote a song about it. The world ended up loving that song and it became my first single but the inspiration came from two young ladies and I thank them for putting me through that stress because now I have a hit single from it. Lol.
What projects can we look forward to in the future?
My future projects consist of my new EP Quarantine and Chill with my first single “100”. I’m also doing a lot of acting in stage plays and in movies coming up and am also writing a Christmas movie at this current time.
What motivates you and how do you define success?
What motivates me is knowing that I am very talented at what I do. I wake up every day trying to outdo what I did the day before. What also motivates me is knowing that my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ blessed me with an amazing talent and that’s the gift of song so that I can share it with the world. My definition of success is you being happy and doing what it is you love.
Ray Lavender - Stay
What do you believe is the formula to being a successful artist in today’s hip hop culture?
The formula to success is simple and that’s being creative and thinking outside of the box of whatever it is that you are seeking to do. But you have to work hard at it or else it’s not going to work. You have to understand that hard work really pays off and nothing is going to come to you. You have to do your best to make it work.
Who has been your greatest inspiration?
My greatest inspiration first and foremost ... is my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ because without him nothing will work. After that it’s my parents. They took amazing care of me and my siblings and they always told us to work hard to become great. So with that they are my inspiration. And I can’t leave out Sam Cooke for being amazing inspiration to me musically.
How do you generate new ideas for your music?
I generate new music ideas by what’s going on in my life at the time. I’m really creative, witty, and clever when it comes to writing and putting words together so when I think about my life and what I’m going through, I put them all in song because i’d rather be rapping or singing it.
What lessons have you learned over the course of your music career?
I’ve learned to make sure you read all of your contracts. I’ve also learned to make sure you know where all of your money is going at all times. I’ve learned that no one is really your friend when it comes to money and business and you have to separate the two. I’ve also learned that hard work will win every time someone tries to do you wrong.
What aspect of the music making process excites you most, and what aspect discourages you the most?
What encourages me to make music is that I am really talented at it. I love to hear a new song by me. It excites me to hear the end of the song and all the harmonies and all the runs that I selected to go into that song. Music is not just music to me, it’s a form of art and I don’t write songs, I paint them. I make moments in time and that’s what excites me. I get discouraged when I make these amazing records and then financially I’m cheated out of the money. When you work so hard on the composition, you want to be properly compensated for it and sometimes the people that you deal with treat you unfairly.
What sacrifices have you had to make, to build your career in music?
I’ve sacrificed a lot of time away from my family. A sacrifice finishing college and playing basketball. I sacrificed watching some of my kids be born because I had a show to do. I sacrificed a lot of time and a lot of my hard earned money to become successful.
What advice would you give to other up and coming artists or people looking to break into the music industry?
To upcoming artists trying to break into the music industry, my advice is to learn the music business. Learn your craft. If you’re trying to sing, go study the greats and figure out why they became great. Never give up no matter who tells you that you’re not good enough. Stay the course and you will win.
Where do you see yourself and your career in the next 10 years?
In the next 10 years I see myself as a big Music Mogul with the Wrecker company that has multi platinum Artists sign to it. I also see myself with a movie production company and producing my own movies.
Is there anything else you would like people to know about you or your music?
When you listen to Ray Lavender, I want you to feel me through my music. I want you to know that I love the craft, I love the art and I love that I am blessed with the gift of song. I want you to understand that I want to be great and I am going to be great. When you think of music, I should be one of the ledges that pop up in your head long after I’m gone. I need you to understand that that’s what I’m working on and that is what will happen. Just like fine wine, you have to wait for it to get the best taste from it. And I’m almost ready!!
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T. Mason Drops New LP "Got Home Late"
“Its overall message comes from me battling with infidelity and faithfulness in my relationship. The temptation from wanting success, as well as the things that tend to come with it.”
Rapper T. Mason dropped his highly anticipated LP Got Home Late! Check it out here!
“This project is not one to just skim through. You can appreciate and grow with over time. Especially if you have been in any relationship that was meaningful to you at one point in time. That could be a bad memory or a good one. The important thing is that it will spark conversation between both men and women. ”
By: Omar Cook
Rapper T. Mason dropped his highly anticipated LP Got Home Late! This is only his 2nd project release and it’s been a minute since dropping his debut project The T. Mason EP.
This release is somewhat similar in regards to sound, but different in terms of growth. It is a more polished sound with an actual narrative. This is only my second project to date so I wanted to solidify my lane and sound. I also wanted to give a product that listeners could grow with throughout my career. A controversial project that could rebuild or destroy your relationship. So kids use it wisely .
Got Home Late features 10 tracks and this is a can’t miss project as this is one of those projects you need to play all the way through. T. Mason brings a smooth vibe over mellow beats throughout the whole LP with lyrics that just about anyone can relate too.
Its overall message comes from me battling with infidelity and faithfulness in my relationship. The temptation from wanting success, as well as the things that tend to come with it. Like women smh. I’ve always battled with giving a relationship my all. There is always something I end up doing to F@!% it all up. This project is me telling that story.
T. Mason is definitely an artist that everyone should be on the look out for and this project is solidifying him as one of the most under the radar artists out right now.
The title in itself means so many things. It’s a phrase I’ve said many times to my significant others. Whether if I was out late actually working in the studio, or if I was out late with other women. It’s about the many arguments and fights I had. If I couldn’t speak to my girl or call her that night, I would just say it was because “I got home late. “
Every track on this project is dope, but a couple that stood out were “Act Right”, “Main Focus”, and “Bri’s Interlude”.
My personal favorite track is “Bri’s Interlude”. It came from a vulnerable place. It’s a song exposing my desires for love, as well as other women. But in the same breath, I am telling the love of my life that those are my old ways. I’m letting her know I’m a better man and she has nothing to worry about even though I’ve cheated before. That is why I say, “Temptation keep calling me, I don’t know if Ima call her right back. So many women who part of my past.” That track was a real conversation, just like the other 9 tracks on the project.
Check out the LP below and be sure to add it to your playlist!
T. Mason - Cruise Control
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