Blackway’s “What I've Been Missing” Album Bridges Ghanaian Roots and Brooklyn Grit
Blackway’s What I've Been Missing album masterfully combines his Ghanaian heritage with the dynamic energy of Brooklyn, offering a unique blend of hip-hop and Afrobeats that narrates a cross-continental journey." We discuss it here!
By: Jayla Smith
Let me tell you about an album that's been on repeat for me lately—Blackway’s latest masterpiece, What I've Been Missing. This album is more than just a collection of tracks; it’s a journey that beautifully merges his Ghanaian heritage with the unmistakable energy of Brooklyn. If you’re a fan of hip-hop with a twist of Afrobeats, this is the album you’ve been waiting for.
A Personal and Musical Journey
Blackway has outdone himself with this one. "Sika Mami," the standout track, is a perfect example of his genius. It’s a seamless blend of melodic Afrobeats and sharp hip-hop, showcasing his incredible versatility. This album is Blackway’s most personal work to date, a heartfelt homage to his roots and experiences.
And he didn’t do it alone. The album features some heavy hitters like Nasty C, Feyi, and his longtime collaborator, KoKo. Each artist brings something special to the table, making this LP a rich tapestry of sounds and stories.
Notable Achievements
Blackway is no stranger to success. He’s been named a Tidal Rising Artist and graced the cover of Rolling Stone in December for the Bacardi x Rolling Stone A.I.bum with Boi-1da. If you’re into hip-hop, you’ve probably heard his killer track "The Return of Mansa Musa" with Busta Rhymes and Swizz Beatz from the album BlockBusta.
Remember "What Up Danger" from Marvel’s Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse? That was Blackway, and it’s racked up over 297 million streams. He even brought Shaq out of rap retirement for "King Talk" in May 2023. Talk about making waves!
Blending Cultures Through Music
“What I've Been Missing” is a celebration of Blackway’s dual heritage. It’s an album that transcends borders, blending the vibrant rhythms of Ghana with the gritty beats of Brooklyn. Each track invites you to step into Blackway’s world, where cultures collide in the most beautiful way.
Connect with Blackway
If you’re not following Blackway on Instagram, you’re missing out. Catch up with him at @iamblackway for all the latest updates. And trust me, you’ll want to listen to “What I've Been Missing” here. It’s an album that’s sure to resonate, whether you’re an Afrobeats aficionado or a hip-hop head.
Blackway’s What I've Been Missing isn’t just an album; it’s a narrative that bridges continents and cultures, offering a fresh take on contemporary hip-hop infused with the vibrant energy of Afrobeats. Don’t sleep on this one—it’s a testament to Blackway’s artistic genius and a must-listen for anyone who loves music that tells a story.
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DJ Kay Slay Gets Top Honor With Street Named After Him in Harlem
Legendary DJ Kay Slay honored in Harlem celebration, remembering his impact on hip hop and influence on artists. We discuss it here!
DJ Kay Slay
Credit: Johnny Nunez/WireImage
By: Adonis Armstrong
The legendary DJ Kay Slay name was forever stamped on 105th Street and First Avenue in his hometown of Harlem, New York this past Sunday. A celebration took place on the late hip-hop pioneer’s old stomping ground where a large group of family and friends filled up the streets between 109th and 105th street and First Avenue in NYC. Some of Kay Slay’s peers were also in attendance including Busta Rhymes, Terror Squad, Papoose and more.
DJ Kay Slay died last April due to complications with COVID-19. He began his hip-hop career as a graffiti artist under the name “Spade”. Once graffiti became less popular within hip-hop culture, Kay Slay turned to DJing where his career went to another level.
Kay Slay rose to prominence following the release of his first major label project entitled Streetsweepers Vol. 1 on Columbia Records. That project allowed him to play a part in the rise of some of the most iconic MCs in Hip Hop. 50 Cent, Dipset, Kendrick Lamar and so many more were able to hop on Kay Slay’s mixtapes, get radio play and open shows for him.
Slay’s impact still lives on till this day. Papoose took to Instagram to honor his longtime friend and collaborator as well.
During a heartfelt speech to the crowd, Papoose let listeners know how much of an impact Kay Slay had on his career. The head of Hip-Hop at TuneCore also dropped a release date for his latest project.
“Slay gave me my first opportunity. Now that I’m head of Hip-Hop at TuneCore I’m going to make sure that happens. September 15th, we releasing 200 Deep.”
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Lil Wayne, Dr. Dre, and Missy Elliott received the Recording Academy’s Global Impact Award
Lil Wayne, Dr. Dre and Missy Elliott received the Recording Academy’s Global Impact Award at the 2023 Black Music Collective’s BMC Honors. We discuss it here!
SACRAMENTO, CA - AUGUST 28: Rapper Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr. aka Lil Wayne performs in concert as part of America's Most Wanted Tour at Sleep Train Arena on August 28, 2013 in Sacramento, California.
Credit: Randy Miramontez via Shutterstock
By: Joshua Martin
Black Music icons took center stage at the annual Recording Academy Honors hosted by the Recording Academy’s Black Music Collective in celebration of this year’s Grammy Awards at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles. Spearheaded by CEO Harvey Mason Jr, The Black Music Collective was formed in 2020 by prominent industry leaders to promote Black representation and inclusion.
Hip Hop legend Lil Wayne took home the Recording Academy’s Global Impact Award, which was affectionately renamed the ‘Dr. Dre Impact Global Award’ in honor of the West Coast music legend.
During his acceptance speech, Wayne reflected on his career in the music industry and the adversity he faced becoming a success hailing from Louisiana.
“I don’t get honored. Where I’m from, New Orleans, you’re not supposed to do this.”
Preceded by emotional video tributes by Drake and the new Colorado head football coach Deion Sanders, the night of celebrations continued for Wayne as his peers, 2Chainz and Tyga, performed some of Wayne’s greatest hits on a night where the past, present and future of Black music were being honored.
Followed by a lively performance by West Coast legend Snoop Dogg, Ty Dolla Sign, and Kurupt. During his speech, Dr Dre. spoke about his hip hop origins and how music changed his life.
“The birth of hip-hop completely changed the course of my life. Just imagine where a lot of Black men, including myself, would be without hip-hop. I was in junior high school when I had ever heard hip-hop for the first time. I heard mixing and scratching, I couldn’t get enough of that sound. And once I got my hands on the turntables, I knew I had found my wings and I was determined to know how to fly.”
Before being introduced by longtime manager Mona Scott-Young and Ciara, Elliott was praised by super producer Timbaland and fellow singer, rapper Lizzo with heartfelt video tributes. Emotionally herself, Missy exclaimed how important this award means to her.
“People don’t understand that this is a Global Impact Award. It’s not just neighborhood, it’s global. So it hits different when you stand up here, knowing that when you get something like this, you gotta know that you’ve been through a lot.”
She also gave a powerful tribute to fellow winner, Epic Records CEO Sylvia Rhone. Later, Swiss Beatz commanded a packed house to give “Sylvia Rhone the Great” a standing ovation before presenting her with the Global Impact award.
“It’s been a lot of years for me in hip-hop, and it’s even more special to me amongst this elite group of artists with Dr. Dre, Missy Elliott, Lil Wayne, each of whom I’ve had the privilege of working with throughout my career.”
Additional musical acts included Chloe Bailey, Busta Rhymes, and Tweet.
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