Tag: hip hop

Hip Hop Artists Leading the Charge in Mental Health Awareness

Hip hop has long been a genre associated with raw emotion, personal storytelling, and social commentary. In recent years, hip hop artists have been at the forefront of mental health awareness, using their platforms to break down stigmas, share their own struggles, and offer support to fans.

One of the pioneers in this movement is Logic, who has been open about his own struggles with anxiety and depression. His song “1-800-273-8255” (feat. Alessia Cara and KAYTRANADA) became a anthem for mental health awareness, with proceeds from the song going to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Kendrick Lamar has also been vocal about mental health, addressing themes of depression, anxiety, and self-love in his music. His album “DAMN.” features the song “FEEL.,” which explores the pressures of fame and the importance of self-care.

Other artists like J. Cole, Chance the Rapper, and NF have also used their music to discuss mental health, sharing their personal struggles and offering messages of hope and resilience.

The impact of hip hop artists on mental health awareness cannot be overstated. By sharing their own experiences, they have helped to:

Break down stigmas surrounding mental health, encourage open conversations and vulnerability, provide support and resources for fans,  and normalize mental health discussions in marginalized communities.

Hip hop artists are also using their platforms to raise funds and support mental health initiatives. For example, Travis Scott’s Cactus Jack Foundation has partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to provide resources and support for mental health.

In conclusion, hip hop artists are leading the charge in mental health awareness, using their music and platforms to break down barriers and offer support. By sharing their own struggles and triumphs, they are helping to create a culture of openness and acceptance, and inspiring fans to prioritize their mental well-being.

Written By: Regina Gigi Rodriguez

Statue of Liberty

Lady Liberty was inspired by the end of the Civil War and emancipation. The connection to immigration came later.

Lady Liberty was originally designed to celebrate the end of slavery, not the arrival of immigrants. Ellis Island, the inspection station through which million of immigrants passed, didn’t open until six years after the statue was unveiled in 1886. The plaque with the famous Emma Lazarus poem wasn’t added until 1903.

“One of the first meanings [of the statue] had to do with abolition, but it’s a meaning that didn’t stick,” Edward Berenson, a history professor at New York University and author of the book “The Statue of Liberty: A Transatlantic Story,” said in an interview with The Washington Post.

Written by Dianne Washington

WTF DID YOU MISS: CLUB HIP HOP 50

If you are either a New Yorker, a Bronx native, and/or a hip hop head then you were definitely outside during the month of August. August 11th, as we all know, is the day of the fiftieth anniversary of hip hop culture. This year’s month of the fiftieth will go down in history as one of hip hop’s greatest times in New York and hip hop history. Besides the fact that The Bronx is the birthplace of hip hop, the entire state of New York and its boroughs coming together to celebrate hip hop culture is an unforgettable time. So many fiftieth celebration events happening back to back, it feels like one big party and/or club exclusively for all those who are part of the culture. Everyone who’s an artist, to bloggers, writers, interviewers, hosts, there was a space for those specifically involved in the culture to get outside, participate, and come together for the culture. All of the four elements: dee jayin’, emceeing, breakdancing, and graffiti, that make up hip hop culture were also fully present at these celebration events. Lots of great performances from our favorite hip hop artists and DJ’s are more in demand, people are showing up and dressing up in their freshest and best outfits and they’re coming out to dance and have a great time. All throughout the month of August, there’s been non stop celebration events happening in The Bronx. Summerstage’s Grandmaster Flash and Friends, The Mill Pond Park celebration, The Yankee Stadium, and most of all the Sedgwick Avenue celebration. On August 4th, 2023, Grandmaster Flash was the star of the show in Crotona Park for Summerstage; Also called the “Birth of a Culture: The 4 Elements Block Party.” He and a couple of other DJ’s including Pete Rock and DJ Chuck Chillout, put on an amazing four hour show that definitely showcased and celebrated the four elements. The show ended with an incredible line up of MC’s who rocked the mic; MC Sha Rock, KRS-One, Melle Mel, and incredible breakdancers who also showed out. On the day of August 11th, the actual day of hip hop’s fiftieth, The Mill Pond Park celebration happened and was the pre show for those who also attended the Yankee Stadium show. Mill Pond Park is on Exterior Street on 150th Street, in The Bronx, close by where the future first hip hop museum will be located. DJ Kevie Kev Rockwell on the music, MC Sha Rock hosting and performances by MC Shan, Milk Dee of Audio Two, Sweet Tee, Peter Gunz, Public Enemy, and more, just to name a few. Hit after hit, classic after classic, the people are clapping their hands, rapping along to the words, and making sure to capture every moment of classic hip hop bliss with their camera phones to savor the moments later on. The celebration continues that day at Yankee Stadium. Lots of people outside of the stadium selling t-shirts, artists rapping out loud to promote their own music, hanging out, and having a great time. Inside of the stadium, it is complete pandemonium. It is the world’s greatest hip hop show happening on the planet. Way more artists from all eras and decades of hip hop are on the stage. The stadium is completely crowded with people all over the place walking around, buying their food and beverages, sticking with their closed loved ones and even running into other loved ones, seats are filled, people are hanging out in the lanes between sections trying to get their way closer to the stage as possible and there’s a huge uproar from the stadium’s reaction to whoever’s on the stage coming from all sides of the stadium. Then there’s August 12th, 2023. The world return’s to the actual and birthplace of hip hop; 1520 Sedgwick Avenue. KRS-One is being followed around in admiration as he is in his element being “The Teacha.” There are food trucks, vendors, graffiti artists, DJ’s, surprise guests and artists, breakdancers, bloggers, interviewers, photographers, grassroots hip hop organizations in attendance and best of all, a stage further up past the 1520 building set for a huge showcase. Upcoming artists and legendary artists both attend the stage. Again, hit after hit, song for song, word for word, the world has attended yet another huge hip hop show and event on the planet. It was the ultimate hip hop show of the year and what better way to celebrate than at 1520. Fat Joe, CL Smooth, Mad Lion, Talib Kweli, Poor Righteous Teachers, Mr. Cheeks, Cold Crush Brothers, The Sugarhill Gang, Public Enemy and more. Anybody that claimed to be a lover of hip hop, a hip hop head, and part of the culture, you were supposed to be there or any of the fiftieth anniversary celebrations. August 2023 was easily the greatest year in hip hop in recent years. So much celebrating, so much fun. If you truly are a lover of the culture, you were granted your wristband or stamp to enter the club called HIP HOP 50. 

Director Vera Edwards honored with Citation

Vera Edwards (March 4, 1966) is an American director, screenwriter, producer, and actor. Born and raised in the South Bronx, New York City, Edwards began her career as an author and then graduated to write, direct, and produce television shows on a cable channel called Bronxnet. The show was titled “Street Line.” It was an entertainment show that not only showed what was happening in the streets, but showed celebrities as well as up-and-coming artists, dance, hip-hop, businesses, current events, and politics. The show revolutionized the urban community. In 2009, Edwards and her son Ricardo Cordero (director of photography) received several Beta Awards for their contributions to television.

In 2011 Edwards published her first book titled “BAND OF GOLD,” which was written by Vera Edwards herself. This was the start of her writing career which jumped started her in the direction of making movies.

One of the first female independent multimedia film director and producer in the Bronx, Edwards has captured the essence of urban life by utilizing members of the community by taking real-life experience and turning it into art. She has become a true pioneer in hip-hop culture and urban day living.

Edwards wrote, produced, and directed with her son Ricardo Cordero her first underground independent feature film, Chicken (2013); The film was an urban drama. The entire cast was first-time actors. The film received worldwide praise from parents, children, teens, and several educational institutions ranging from different fields of study that implemented different story elements into their own syllabuses. It was a scripted reality show at its finest. Chicken showcased unfortunate realism that many individuals face in urban communities even to this day. The movie Chicken sold-out not only at the theaters but also sold out as DVDs in stores. It became one of the most sought out underground urban movies till this day.

Her second film was a romantic love story titled “Waiting for 4 Mr. Wright” (2015), which won a Bronxnet Beta Award. It too had first-time actors, Anabel Castillo, and Hip-Hop artist, Mighty Mike C (Michael Clee), from the legendary hip-hop group, The Fearless 4. The film received a standing ovation which was played at the iconic Mist Theater in Harlem, New York; It also was a DVD hit.

This was followed in 2015 by Edwards’s first novella “Perate,” a movie drama that starred Artie Cordel and hip-hop legend Wilfredo “Tito” Dones, of the legendary group The Fearless 4. It was a challenge for Edwards to write and produce the life of a Hispanic dysfunctional family. Her daughter Bobbi Cordero(writer) helped create the movie, which won Edwards another Beta Award. The movie Perate also played in the iconic Mist Theater in Harlem, New York City.

In 2015-2018, Edwards directed her first web series that started out as a small pitch that led to a bigger series of its own name and a powerful relationship drama, “Rodent,” starring Seven and Antoinette “Toni Styles” Vereen. This was a drama that identified with personal relationships amongst friends and family. The web series had twists and turns. Rodent was in high demand on the internet but ended abruptly because of ‘unsettling’ events created only amongst actors based off their newfound popularity that was developed from the success of the Rodent series.

In 2016, Edwards produced and directed “PPRESSED,” based on the everyday life of battle rappers. The movie starred Karine “Sho-Time” Thornton and Michael Deering (Mikey D) from the legendary group, “Main Source.” Since its success and debut, it has become the anthem and blueprint of videography used in today’s hip-hop rap culture within television and feature digital movie format.

Edwards wrote, produced, and directed “A Teenage Story” (2020) starring LA Sunshine (Lamar Hill), from the legendary group The Treacherous 3, DJ and creator of scratch, Grandwizard Theodore (Theodore Livingston), Stevie D (Stevie Lundy), from the legendary Force Mds and first-time actor Justin Hines. The movie was shot during the COVID pandemic and was set for the theaters, but due to the worldwide COVID restriction lock-downs, the 1:49-minute movie was released on YouTube and generated over 800,000 views.

When asked in a recent interview on the podcast “SHO-TIME TV PODCAST,” the interviewer asked Edwards “How were you able to create so many hit movies in such a short time,” Edwards replied” I couldn’t have done it without my son Ricardo Cordero. He is an excellent cameraman. He and I work great together, I know him, and he knows me. He knows my vision. I leave all the camera work to him, and he makes it happen. I think he is the best director of photography I know. To be able to create and share time as a mother and son is priceless. I enjoy those moments”.

On March 26, 2023, Edwards was honored with a Citation by Senator Cordell Cleare for her work with the community as a Film director.

The Legacy of DJ Swanny River

For the first time since I’ve been doing these dope interviews on really dope individuals, I’m really proud and excited to do this one especially. This doesn’t mean I dislike the others but this one’s quite different from the rest. That’s because this one’s about a very dope OG whose been doing this shit for years. He’s a perfect representation of my favorite element in hip hop, which is the DJ. The DJ’s have always been my favorite in hip hop. They provide the sounds that can get the place rocking. Depending on the DJ themselves. Knowing the crowd is just as important because there’s a sense of connection between the DJ and the crowd. Just like the MC, they move the crowd, they’re the mic controller, the masters of ceremony, DJ’s are what gave birth to the MC’s, breakers, and dancers altogether. All thanks to the pioneers in hip hop, DJ Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, Grandmaster Flash, Grandmaster Caz (the first MC & DJ), Grand Wizzard Theodore, and Grandmaster Flowers. If it wasn’t for them we wouldn’t have all these different techniques in which DJ’s use to being dope on the 1’s and 2’s. It’s more than just playing music too. DJ’s are also producers too. Ali Shaheed Muhammad, DJ Premier, RZA, DJ Scratch, DJ Khaled, and so much more have given us quality production as well as great shows on the 1’s & 2’s. Being an artist in the entertainment field, you meet so many other dope talented individuals and even through other people and then y’all get to know each other more and realize there’s this magical creative connection that works and then there’s permanent bond that doesn’t go away. In this case, this guy has been introduced to me through someone else. It just so happens that he’s part of this dope group and he produced my first album. His name is DJ Swanny River. Born as John Figueroa on April 5th, a fellow Aries, a Brooklyn native who grew up in the Brownsville section. Swanny says, “Growing up in Brooklyn was hard. I grew up in a poor, but happy family. My dad worked and my mom stayed home and took care of us. As the youngest in my family, my mother made my clothes.” New York back in the days was a very different time. The economy, the environment, the music, the neighborhood, everything. You’re definitely a product of your environment whether you know it or not. What you adapt to becomes a big part of you. Speaking of your environment, Swanny goes on about his early days. “Hip hop & House Music inspired me. I went to my aunt’s house for a visit in The Bronx and as we approached the building, that’s when I saw Grandmaster Flash in front of my building DJ’ing; he was scratching. As a kid, that sounded amazing to me, so at that time, I decided that’s what I wanted to do! My childhood friend, Bobby Simmons, taught me how to cut up “Good Times” by Chic. After that, DJ Grave Yard was born and as time went on, I got better at it. I changed my name to Scratch Master Swann and then eventually, DJ Swanny River.” That’s an incredible story! Very raw and organic how you actually seen a hip hop pioneer in those early days who influenced you to become a DJ as well. This was a time where there was no social media and internet access. Everything was outside in front of the building while regular people just did what they normally do everyday. Nothing planned for success just everyday living with a soundtrack to match. A really dope soundtrack always reflects the times we’re in. Swanny then tells me about what he’s done. His music and catalog. “I have several. My first real mixtape is called ‘The Hood Report’ featuring the great Blind Fury. Then came my LGBTQ mixtapes. ‘It Is What It Is When The Beat Drops’, Volumes 1 & 2, featuring my favorite, and still up to this day, LGBTQ rappers and a few singers. I dropped a bunch of singles after that with various artists but today, the projects that I’m extremely proud of are with my team, The Alliyance. They are the crème de la crème of this thing we call OUT RAP. We have a brand new project in the works. Our first project is called ‘Introducing The Alliyance.’ You can find that on all your streaming sites. Plus there are some tracks on those sites that are not on the album but guaranteed bangers. We also have a mixtape called ‘The Prequel.’ That you can find on SoundCloud, just search The Alliyance. Wow! Serious resumé right there! All work, no play. Swanny continues, “To be honest, in my music life, I have no regrets. So far, things happened just the way I planned. Some good, some bad, but it’s okay. In life, you have to take the good with the bad. That’s how you learn to grow and accept things and just keep it moving.” Well said! A great message for the people to definitely hear and take in. In conclusion, Swanny also says, “Years from now?? LOL! I see myself living my best life like I am now. No worries, enjoying what I do and helping the future generation of singers and rappers. That’s another thing, I love giving the young one’s advice and helping them with their passion for music. Only if they are serious.” There you have it! DJ Swanny River himself ladies and gentlemen. You can follow him Instagram @srmg_rwsradio. 

Written by Jalen Hemphill 

The Rise of Dub Pudgy

I’m back at it again. It’s been a while. The pen been a little dry, well, not exactly, just been putting it to use on other projects but I’m back and it’s time for some new shit to be introduced. In my Craig Mack voice, “I’m kickin’ new flava in ya ear!” LOL! Anyways, there’s this particular artist. I met through family, so he is kind of like family to me too. Harlem’s finest and doing the damn thing as of lately dropping new dope music and music videos as well. I love to see people working, grinding, and shining. He goes by the name Dub Pudgy. Born as Michael Jordan, Jr. on October 9th, 1991, Pudgy’s another underground rap artist whose an up and coming talent whose been one busy individual. I’m very picky about talent and music but it’s the drive, dedication, and consistency that catches my eye. Let’s take it back to the very beginning of things, shall we?? Coming from Harlem, Pudgy’s family bond, in the beginning, was a really close one, and then things became different for him. He says, “At first, I had a family that was really close together, after more than a few deaths along with misunderstandings, that went away and it made things harder in the sense of being alone.” Unfortunately, family dynamics do change. Whether we want them to or not. A family, a foundation always shapes what type of adult the child will eventually become. It’s those unfortunate times that helps spark a young creative mind too. With the bad also comes with the good. Pudgy continues on about his days as a child and his inspirations and influences. “My elders, as in famous people, Tupac, Lil’ Wayne, and Will Smith, but mainly my Nana, grandmother and deep conversation with my brothers.” Having the love, support, and bond with our loved ones are very important just as much as our influences from entertainment. These things always reveal who we become as artists. Inspiration can come from anywhere outside of our main influences though. Energy never lies and what you associate with you will pick up. Even just minding your business walking down the street. Pudgy tells more about his where his inspirations come from. He says, “There’s something about being around people with good energy and when I just wrote something or performed, the reaction was so addictive and motivating that I became consumed in becoming great and making this a career.” No greater feeling than getting positive love, energy, and reciprocation back from those who are watching and listening. It’s what keeps an artist consistent and true to what they do. Speaking of doing, Pudgy is definitely doing the damn thing indeed. Music, music videos, collaborations, I love to see it all. My YouTube subscription box has Dub Pudgy music videos, he sends me texts of his links, it’s why I had to come back and give him his props for what he is doing. I asked Pudgy to speak more about his work and what he has going on currently. “My new single “Be Better” is out now on all platforms, the album “Harlem Legends”, and the video to “Be Better” will be out soon and we got more than music coming soon too.” Truly exciting. I love it all. Just wanted to make sure the people get into this as well. The sounds are very new school class of Harlem rap for the current generation. It’s all about the good times, good vibes, and positive energy. Youthful, hood, yet hopeful, optimistic, and fun Black-ness. When you reach a certain level and point in the field that you chose, reflecting on your progress and growth always humbles you. You also think about your life choices in the past because they definitely gave you the lessons you needed in order to get to where are you are currently. Any regrets at all?? Pudgy responds, “Every choice I’ve made got me to be the man that’s here today so no.” There you have it! No regrets. Full on confidence. He continues, “I see growth. You’re never too old to learn to be better.” Indeed. Never too old. Life goes on. To hear more from Dub Pudgy, you can find him on Facebook as MrNocap Withthehood and on Instagram @itz_justdub. 

Written by Jalen Hemphill 

Free Ya Mind: The Story of Demetrius Clayton


Patience is most definitely a virtue. It’s something I had to learn for majority of my life. I always hated waiting and I sometimes hate not being able to come across stuff on my own. Even worst when someone is trying to put you on to something or someone but they keep asking “Yo! Did you check it out yet?!” Then I’m like “No! Stop frickin’ asking me!” LMFAO!!! Anyways, I love to come across interesting new people and things all on my own. The experience is much different because it’s organic and authentic. Not saying that someone else introducing you to something or someone isn’t but it hits differently when you discover it on your own. Sometime a week ago, I was scrolling on my Instagram, regular thing, and this guy pops up on my feed. I don’t know how long I’ve been following this guy but I was glad to be able to finally go through his page real quick. I would like to point out that there’s a huge difference between a beat maker and a producer. See a beat maker just makes beats but a producer creates magic. They’re like magicians. They take those beautiful sounds they create and put together to create something much, much larger than life. A soundtrack for the perfect artist that depicts their aura presence so perfectly. I was going through this guy’s page and loved what I was hearing. Not your typical, monotonous, mainstream “turn up” sounds, this when you go downtown shopping in those random thrift stores and hear a Joey Badass or some other ill ass, dope, underground sounds that you never heard before. It’s super refreshing and original and most definitely captures your ear. Y’all should know already that I had to get at this guy and see what’s up. So I got the 411 on this dope producer. Turns out his stage name is Free Mind, born Demetrius Clayton on April 23rd, 1986 in Watts, California but raised in Los Angeles. A Taurus from the West Coast whose a dope ass producer. This is going to be really interesting right here. A’ight, so boom! I’m automatically thinking about N.W.A. This is the West Coast during the late 80’s. Never mind my thoughts right now, Clayton talks about his life growing up. “Growing up for me was like some real storybook shit. I grew up in the projects and It was crazy around my way. I saw and experienced things that cause PTSD in people. It wasn’t all bad though. There was definitely a balance.” Of course. Balance is key. Where there’s good, there’s also the bad. Gotta know how to maneuver through it. Obviously, music is the good in his life. He continues about his inspirations. “Musically, I was inspired by J Dilla, 9th Wonder, and the “old” Kanye West. If you listen closely you can definitely hear their influence and inspiration in my beats. And as far as inspiration in my life outside of music, I would have to say my children are my biggest inspiration. It’s because of them that I am who I am today.” Great inspirations right there and a father? Nice! It’s all good indeed, there’s always story of the beginning of when the good started. Clayton continues, “Music is a way to express what’s in your spirit and soul. It’s a way to communicate the intangible and immaterial. I just wanted to tell my story through my music. It was the only outlet I had at the time I first started. Not having anything gave me my start. I didn’t have the money or other things that keep people complacent and content with where they are. All I had was my will to be great and do something that would outlive me.” So relatable! It’s always the will power to be great in our heads and minds that pushes us to heights and levels to getting what we want and where we want to go in life. It’s a weird but scary and beautiful way of reaching for the stars that’s hard to explain. Sort of like a Super Mario Bros. video game, you have to go through all these obstacles in order to get to the goal at the end. You’ll often fall off, slip up, lose energy and power, all these things coming your direction to destroy you but you keep popping back up and you keep going. The best part is actually getting there. Then there’s this big sigh of relief like “Wow!” Then, the music actually comes in. Clayton talks about his work. “I just dropped “Soul Immortal 2”. That’s my latest instrumental album. It was released on December 31st, 2020. I have a lot of projects coming in the near future. I’ll keep that on the low until the time comes for the release of those projects.” Dope! Definitely have to check it out and stay on the lookout for those future projects. Lots of lessons that comes with a journey of an artist and how they got to where they are creatively in their careers and life; as well as regrets. Sometimes we regret not knowing enough earlier or not pushing ourselves or in Clayton’s case, none. He says, “I don’t have any regrets, but I would for sure do a lot of things differently. All I can do is learn from my mistakes and keep striving to become a better musician and most importantly, a better human being.” No truer words have been spoken. Beautifully said there sir! You’ve came this far and still have a lot to look forward to in the future. Many more years to come. Where do you see yourself years from now?, “I see myself happy! Living a life of purpose. I have a lot to contribute to this world. I plan on doing that before my demise.” Amazing. For music and more, keep up with Free Mind by following him on all his social media platforms. 

Social media handles:

https://www.instagram.com/3rdeyefree

https://freemindsoul7.bandcamp.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7hkdcwn2cNAWHKak8Ffkbw

Written by Jalen Hemphill

Greatness Speaks!: The Story of Hākeem Turé

As a person like myself whose incredibly in love with hip hop culture, I always stress how much I love meeting someone who has a similar mind, aesthetic, or vision as mine. It’s when they either open their mouths to express some incredibly dope talent or they say things in conversation that mirrors exactly how I feel. It’s like being in some sort of exclusive hip hop club for those who completely understand the root of the culture. For real tho, there’s this tall, dark, dope MC who followed me on Instagram some months ago; I’m not really sure how long ago. One day I finally went through his page and actually heard what he had to say on the mic. Every single photo, every single video of this guy on the stage, his style, his presence, his energy, his attitude, his overall aura screams HIP HOP!!! No fillers, no saturated over hyped, catchy hooks & simple “raps”, this isn’t to diss, this is what we call it in the culture, preserving or simply keeping it real. I was absolutely blown away and became an instant fan. He didn’t harass me with his links and about what he do. I naturally discovered how dope he is myself. I love that. Him being dope was just an extreme bonus for me. I had to hop on the opportunity to connect with this talented brother and give y’all this piece about the one and only Hākeem Turé. A Virgo MC born on September 21st, 1991 and raised in Harvey, Illinois. Turé begins to tell his story, “Life growing up for me was extreme neglect from family, teachers, and friends who didn’t know how to identify, nurture, or assist a young rebel and creative. I learned how to deal with black man hood through hip hop and Islam.” That definitely hits home! Sounds all too familiar. So many of us black men have a similar upbringing. It’s super cliché but it’s reality. It’s real life. This is everyday and the effects it has on us runs deep in both good and bad ways. With life experiences comes with inspiration. Ture continues, “My 6th grade poetry teacher Mrs. Garderner made me Walter in ‘A Raisin In The Sun’ and read to me an Amiri Baraka poem and told me I would be famous for my voice.” I remember “A Raisin In The Sun.” Not what it was about but actually learning and studying it. That was years ago. Also, there’s always that one person who changed your life with just a little bit of encouragement and a push. Feels good to be understood and supported in ways you don’t know could effect you in a very positive way. He continues, “Master P was the first rapper I heard no matter where I went or who I was with, so he stuck with me, BUT I knew I wanted to be a rapper when I saw Nas perform ‘Street Dreams (Remix)’ on “All That.” I remember seeing that performance with the black skully hat and crewneck sweater that Nas was wearing too. That’s one of my favorite songs from him as well and I prefer that version over the original. The MC then goes in about his start. “Man, I’m trying to hold on to and replenish the culture. Around my 7th grade year all my homies switched from east coast rap to down south rap and we became a product of a fatigued culture. Ain’t nobody reading no books, ain’t no body dropping the knowledge of self that I was raised on.” That’s what I’m talking about! Took me years to understand knowledge of self. I wasn’t raised on it but when I did my homework, it changed my life forever. It truly feels amazing to hear someone else talk about the culture in this way. A conversation like this nowadays can be refreshing. It’s like one big battle in hip hop between whose who and who represents what. It can be frustrating. Once you understand someone’s mindset in hip hop, that can tell you everything about the type of music that they make. I definitely wanted to know what this dope MC is working on and what he already created and put out. “I’m getting ready to drop my album “Will Rap 4 Dap” featuring Saba, Vic Spencer, and Gabe Gizz. I’m excited to let the world hear my story but also for the responsibility to cultivate some young black minds. After that, I’ll be dropping another album called “Blood In My 3rd Eye” that I wrote in solitary confinement.” Awww man! Definitely excited about this! It’s very rare that I get excited about new music anymore. Only real shit gets me excited. You can come a long way in life and might have regrets…. or not. “No regrets, just lessons learned. I’ve learned that you can not make anyone see greatness that they do not see in themselves. Many people have talent but few have the discipline.” Ain’t that the truth!!! We can go on and on about that. It’s a different time, a different era, a different world. Definitely gotta set an example that’s going to create a new world. “Years from now, I see myself using hip hop as a tool strengthen our Moorish-American influence throughout the African diaspora and reafrikanize not only our music but our youth.” Looking forward to that!!! Such an inspiration indeed. If you were inspired, you can find Hākeem Turé on IG @hakeemturespeaks.

Written by Jalen Hemphill

Trust In Yourself: The Story of Trust Tate

How well do we actually know a person? Whether you’ve known them for a short or long period of time, you never really know a person’s story until they actually tell you. Being talented is one thing but the story that comes with a person’s growth and perseverance is what makes you respect them even more. The first time meeting this guy, I was at a family reunion cookout and he was the photographer. That cookout was a lot fun and I instantly remember how cool this guy was. This guy also happens to be family, my older cousin. 6 months older. Social media taught me that this guy not only does photography but he actually makes music, he’s an artist. During those days, I remember him trying to get me out to his side to work on music but at the time, I didn’t have the money nor did I want him to pay for anything…. I know, weird. Why not let someone who believes in you help you out? Pride gets in the way of your opportunities. Something I quickly learned over the years but back to the real story at hand. Trust Tate, a 27 year old artist who was born in The Bronx, NY and then moved to Jersey City because of horrific incident that happened to him as a child. Shot in the arm accidentally by a man trying to aim at someone else, being pushed in a stroller by his grandmother. It’s both sad and shocking. It’s a story that made the papers in April 1994 but this time around, there’s a new story to tell.  Born on September 18th, 1993, Tate grew up with his father, stepmother, and a younger sister in Jersey City. He continues on about his childhood. “As a kid, I loved playing basketball, running track, wrestling, working out, writing poetry, acting, riding my bike and skateboard, watching cartoons, eating a bunch of snacks, and playing video games with friends. I went to Rafael De J Cordero public school from elementary to middle school, and then went to Cicely L. Tyson’s school of performing and fine arts where I studied TV/film. As of 2018, I am an Rutgers University Alumnus with my own home music studio chasing the dream!” Incredible! Super inspiring too. How can you not give props to that? Chasing our dreams in this world isn’t so easy. Definitely got to start from the ground up. Tate continues by telling me what inspires him. “Hip Hop inspires me, Rock inspires me, jazz inspires me… but I’m also so inspired by so many aspects of life that have nothing to do with music. Like the people I’ve met along my journey, the women I’ve loved, the laughs I’ve shared with loved ones, the friends & family I’ve lost due to drugs, guns, or prisons, and the racial inequalities taking place all over this country.” You can definitely tell a lot about an artist by what and who inspires them. It’s always in their presence and of course in their art. Our personal experiences definitely tells stories that not only help us but others who listen and pay attention to what artists have to say. You never know whose paying attention. Life in itself is the greatest form of inspiration. My personal favorite part about learning about artists is knowing what planted the seed inside them to do what they do today. Tate says, “I wanted to be free to express myself musically without financial or time restrictions. The only way I could do that was for me to be able to pay for the equipment, learn it, and then have enough space to fully utilize it. I started out just rapping. I would go to producers and engineers for their expertise then upload it to my SoundCloud. I got signed my sophomore year of college to T.O.G. Music Group, and they gave me financial & educational opportunities I’ve never been exposed to.” It’s the humble beginnings for me. I can personally relate. As artists nobody wants restrictions. Complete freedom to create is the greatest feeling in the world. You then reach a point as an artist where you actually succeed and create projects. Right now, Tate’s project “Saint Alexvnder-Beautiful Chaos” is out now on all platforms. To be a witness of someone’s growth and greatness, I always ask them where do they see themselves years from now. Tate replies, “I see myself still making music. Just with better equipment, a better bank account, a nicer crib, a clean whip, and a loyal team by my side to keep grinding!” Any regrets? “I wouldn’t change anything for the world.” And there you have it! A very dope, smart, and talented individual like Trust Tate can be found on social media. Follow him on Instagram @trust.a.tate, Facebook: Trust Tate, and of course, check out his dope music on SoundCloud.com/therealtrust.

Written by Jalen Hemphill

Hip Hop’s Next Future Mogul: The Legacy of C.E.L.L.Beatz

Hip hop has more than just artists and it is most definitely more than just being an artist. Artists can also have multiple sources of income from multiple avenues and talents that they possess and bring to the limelight and forefront. Moguls like Diddy, Jay-Z, Russell Simmons, Master P and much more have been perfect examples of businessmen who have worked to being the success that they are today. Although mainstream hip hop is where these men shine the most, when it comes to the independent and underground scene, there are most definitely up and coming people who are most definitely doing their thing and much more too. The next generation most definitely need their faces to be familiar with so they can know that they too can do it and put in the work to becoming just as successful and important in their fields as well. Speaking of hard work, hustle is everything this man represents. I met this man through mutual business partners and very close friends. His tall, muscular frame but a very charismatic funny man who can brighten up the room with his machismo but goofy personality, a very dope individual who handles his business, he goes by the name of Dameon Akeem James aka C.E.L.L.Beatz or just simply Celli. Born on May 12th, 1990, a true Brooklyn native from the East Flatbush and Canarsie area, growing up he was a kid who imitated what he saw happening in his environment. He says, “Growing up, believe it or not, I was very shy and quiet. I was always an observer and often imitated things that caught my attention. Activities from playing  basketball at the park, playing manhut in my neighborhood pitch black with my friends, waiting for the ice cream truck to get the goods etc. I’ve been through both public & private schools and I learned from both worlds, and it helped me get through college; mentally and socially.” Sounds like the typical day as a kid growing up in the NYC. The good old days but of course, a kid has their dreams and goals as well. Music is James’ dreams. Musically, he gives credit to Dr. Dre, Timbaland, DJ Quik, Nas, Tupac, Biggie and much more. Personally, it’s his late great mother, father, and sister. He continues on about his musical roots and inspiration. “I wanted to get into music as a whole way back for as long as I can remember. As a kid listening to sonically well produced records such as “Life After Death”, “All Eyez On Me”, “Doggystyle”, etc. I always payed attention to the instruments, specifically the percs, pianos, drums, and I remembered being so enamored and curious as to how those sounds were able to talk to teach other and how crisp and clear it sounded. Each genre fed me everything I needed to start my journey with music, Rapping and producing.” It’s definitely amazing how much a kid can learn, interpret, and pick up from what they hear. Like sponges, they can soak up just about anything and work on whatever it is they hear just get some sort of result of what they learned. Now comes the music. The man of the music. James then talks about his work. “Currently I have my solo album “Equator” out now on all streaming platforms as well as my instrumental album. My latest project, which is a compilation album with various artists all produced by me, “Cinematic Eardrum, Volume 1”, will be available on Friday, September 25th on all streaming platforms. Check out all of my music videos such as a crowd favorite “Taylor Port” , “Jigsaw”, “The Strip”, etc. On my YouTube.” I had the pleasure of seeing and remembering “Taylor Port.” James’ Song dedicated to the wine is an upbeat, fun, part record that gets everyone in the place up and dancing, hype, in the mood to drink some Taylor Port. I personally love it mixed with Ginger Ale or Sprite. LOL! Anyways, back to the topic of things. With so much on his plate and so much he has accomplished, James’ revisits his early days. He says, “My only regrets was not believeing in myself in my early years which could’ve catapulted me faster in music, but things happen for a reason. I would have definitely took my piano lessons more seriously, but all in all, no deep regrets because I wouldn’t be the person I am today.” No truer and greater words have been spoken by this entrepreneur. He continues, “Years from now, I see me having my brand in multiple markets, film, video games, wine, and spirits, media such as podcasting, an expansion of the C.E.L.L.BEATZ brand with more merch. Multiple sources of income, homeowner etc.” Dopeness and greatness destined for this man! A whole lot. If you want to keep up with this genius, you can follow him on Instagram @Cellmilli, Facebook – Dameon James/Cellbeatz Productions, Twitter – Cellbeatz25, and his Snapchat – Cellbeatz25.

Written by Jalen Hemphill