May 2025 - DigiWaxx

Solo’s Way Drops New Video for “The Realest”

Posted on May 28, 2025 by

From the heart of South Bend, Indiana, Solo’s Way is breathing life back into the essence of street rap. Known as the “Voice of the Realest,” Solo has built his reputation on raw honesty, powerful storytelling, and an unflinching commitment to staying true to himself and those who’ve walked beside him. His latest EP, Loyalty Made Different, isn’t just another release—it’s a declaration. This project signals the arrival of a new era for Solo, one where authenticity is not just admired, but required. Each track on the EP feels like a confessional, giving listeners a front-row seat to the trials and triumphs of a man navigating life with integrity in a world that often rewards betrayal. From loyalty among friends to staying grounded through adversity, Loyalty Made Different captures the code Solo lives by. What sets Solo’s Way apart is his ability to articulate real-life experiences with emotional depth and lyrical precision. Whether he’s reflecting on personal loss, hard-earned wisdom, or the strength it takes to keep going, his voice resonates with those who’ve lived through similar battles. It’s not polished for mass appeal, and that’s exactly the point—it’s honest, unfiltered, and necessary. In an era where substance can sometimes take a backseat to spectacle, Solo’s Way is carving out a lane for those who still believe in the power of truth in music. Loyalty Made Different isn’t just an EP—it’s a testament to what it means to be real when the world expects you to fold. Check the video for the lead single “The Realest“.

#rewindreview: Elzhi ‘Seven Times Down Eight Times Up’ 2020

Posted on May 27, 2025 by

This Detroit rapper is often forgotten when talking about the best M.C.’s from that city. It could be due to his content not being about negativity all these years. It could be to the fact that he actually raps. It could be due to the amount of music he has(n’t) put out over the years. Regardless of the reason, on ‘Seven Times Down Eight Times Up,’ Elzhi gives one of his most consistent musical offerings yet. This album only features two acts in the vocalist Monica Blaire and rapper Fes Roc. All beats are provided by JR Swiftz who gives Elzhi the right production that fits and reminds listeners of the wheelhouse Elzhi comes from, that include producers like Waajeed and Jay Dee a.k.a. J-Dilla. All while not allowing the production to out shine Elzhi which makes for a “good combination” and satisfying listen. Elzhi has been an urban legend throughout the years due to his talent but lack of albums released; even with this record often forgotten due to it being released during the Pandemic. Although he has had critical acclaim for previous “mixtapes” in the past, ‘Seven Times Down Eight Times Up’ is the album release I have expected from the former Slum Village member all these years. What did you think of the album? Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 1-3a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @https://linktr.ee/QLEAPRADIO

Digiwaxx New Wednesday Showcases New Heat from Ron Browz, KenTheMan, INasX and Mya

Posted on May 22, 2025May 22, 2025 by

Digiwaxx turned up the volume yesterday afternoon with its signature New Music Wednesday, bringing DJs, tastemakers, and artists together for a hybrid experience full of exclusive music and authentic conversation. Hosted in-person at The Penthouse, a rooftop hotspot in Hell’s Kitchen, and streamed virtually to a national DJ audience, this week’s edition was a true celebration of what’s next in hip-hop and R&B. Taking center stage on the rooftop was Harlem’s own Ron Browz, the legendary producer behind tracks like Nas’s “Ether” and his own club anthem “Pop Champagne.” Browz used the occasion to preview music from his highly anticipated upcoming project, Ether Gang Vol. 1—a compilation that channels his classic sound while introducing a new wave of talent. Joining him were two featured artists on the project: Mak, a gritty lyricist from Brooklyn, and Izo, a rising voice representing Harlem. The exclusive music playback revealed tracks rooted in real-life experiences—pain, perseverance, and pride. Their verses brought the streets to the skyline, painting vivid pictures of the challenges and victories that define their respective boroughs. It was clear these aren’t just features—they’re statements. The virtual segment was just as compelling. KenTheMan, the Houston rapper known for her quick wit and fearless bars, came through with a sneak peek of new material that continues to push the boundaries of Southern hip-hop. Following her was INasX, a female R&B singer with a moody, melodic sound that blends soul, pop, and emotional depth. Her music stood out for its honesty and originality—proving she’s an artist to watch. Rounding out the afternoon was Grammy-winning icon Mýa, who debuted her new single “Face to Face.” With sultry production and emotionally rich vocals, the track reflects her maturity as an artist and her ability to remain relevant across generations. True to Digiwaxx’s mission, New Music Wednesday wasn’t just a listening session—it was a space where artists shared their stories, DJs gave real-time feedback, and genuine connections were made. From the rooftops of Manhattan to digital stages across the country, the event captured the pulse of the culture. With Ron Browz’s Ether Gang Vol. 1 setting the tone and standout contributions from Mak, Izo, KenTheMan, INasX, and Mýa, this week’s showcase proved once again: the future of music is in good hands—and it’s being curated right here.

#rewindreview: Sir Menelik a.k.a. Scaramanga ‘Seven Eyes, Seven Horns’ 1998

Posted on May 20, 2025 by

The entity known as Sir Menelik was an understudy of The Great Kool Keith. With that comes the propensity for stream of thought rhyming and multiple personalities when releasing music. ‘Seven Eyes, Seven Horns’ is Sir Menelik’s debut album but under the moniker of “Scaramanga,” a character loosely based on the James Bond villain that owned his own island and “the man with the golden gun.” My interest for this album peaked after numerous features he had with Kool Keith and 12″ inch singles that were released through Rawkus records. Listeners should expect that with “Scaramanga” one will hear the talent of polysyllabic rhyming but if trying to hone in on the meaning of these lyrics, you might be decoding them for years. The title of the album is steeped in the idea of perfect power and perfect vision as God would see it on earth. If one can cut through the abstract lyrics on this album they might be able to hear how Scaramanga describes his vision of lyrical perfection and insight as well. Again a challenge that can only be offered… Sir Menelik was often known to be more “sci-fi” in his content but under “Scaramanga” this album leans into the “streets” and “underworld” aspect one might compare to Raekwon’s ‘Only Built For Cuban Linx’ album or Nas’ “Escobar” era. What makes the album work is the combination of beats provided by Showbiz, Godfather Don, Scholarwise and Scaramanga’s delivery. Tracks like ‘Special EFX,’ ‘Alphabetic Hammer,’ ‘Shallah Magnetic’ and the title track are a reminder of how the independent, underground sound was at it’s best in the late 1990’s. My issue with this album, even still to this day, was more about the sequencing of songs, mainly toward the end of the project. ‘Death Letter’ has the original and remix added and the original’s production doesn’t hold up with the songs surrounding it while the remix might be better but should have been the last track on the album as a “bonus.” With all the time that has past this album gets better simply because of how rare it is and also how unabashed it was in it’s approach. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Special EFX’ & ‘Mind I.C. Mine’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 1-3a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @https://linktr.ee/QLEAPRADIO

#rewindreview: Sach ‘Seven Days To Engineer’ EP 1998

Posted on May 13, 2025 by

During the “file sharing era” I came across many hard to find or never officially released albums. For me that was the purpose of those days, to not simply pilfer off of rapper’s works but to find those gems that might have been lost but now found and digitized, to last forever. The Nonce was a west coast group who in my opinion never got the attention they deserved. Even with a cultural hit song called ‘Mixtapes” and an incredible debut album that song was attached to with ‘World Ultimate,’ Sach & Yusef Afloat were still limited to an “underground” fanbase. This meant if you were not in the general vicinity of the group, one might have missed releases they had. In 1998 Sach put out an EP ‘Seven Days To Engineer’ which by my own account seems to have been a slight “testing of the waters” on how he would a approach a solo release. This EP is about twenty minutes long and has a “demo tape” feel to it as songs don’t sound properly mixed with vocals often not matching the volume level of the music. What is enjoyable about this release is the obscure and often improvisational jazz style of beats that Sach really gets to display here. It would be another 4 years and an unfortunate passing of Yusef Afloat for audiences to get a proper presentation of the sound of Sach but for those who might have got this street tape or took advantage of the “file sharing era,” we were prepared to hear the continuation and genesis of a sound that took seven days to engineer. What did you think of the album? Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 1-3a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @https://linktr.ee/QLEAPRADIO

Inside the Breakdancing Community: An Electrifying Night at Red Bull BC ONE CYPHER

Posted on May 12, 2025 by

#MYCreatives stepping into the vibrant world of breakdancing for the first time, I found myself immersed in an electrifying atmosphere at the Red Bull BC ONE CYPHER in Chelsea, NYC. The Racket NYC Lounge was pulsating with energy as dancers from all corners of the breakdancing community gathered to showcase their skills in this iconic Dance Battle Competition. The night was a revelation, highlighting the raw talent and passion that fuels the Hip Hop events scene. As beats reverberated (Courtesy of DJ FLEG) through the venue and the crowd cheered with enthusiasm, each performance told a unique story, drawing me deeper into the captivating realm of street dance culture. Join me as I relive the unforgettable moments and vibrant spirit of this exhilarating night at the epicenter of breakdancing. Electrifying Atmosphere at Red Bull BC ONE The Red Bull BC ONE CYPHER in Chelsea, NYC was an explosion of sights and sounds. From the moment you walked into the Racket NYC Lounge, the atmosphere was palpable. A mix of anticipation and excitement filled the air, setting the stage for what promised to be an unforgettable night. This section delves into the initial impressions of the venue and the dynamic energy of the crowd. First Impressions of the Venue Walking into the Racket NYC Lounge was like entering an alternate universe where breakdancing reigned supreme. The venue exuded a raw and gritty vibe, perfectly complementing the street dance culture. The dim lighting and vibrant graffiti art on the walls added to the underground feel. Every corner of the space was buzzing with anticipation. As I found my spot, I couldn’t help but soak in every detail. The stage was set at the center, ensuring that all eyes were on the dancers. It was clear from the get-go that this wasn’t just any dance competition; it was a celebration of Hip Hop at its finest. The layout allowed for an intimate experience, letting the audience get up close and personal with the performers. It was easy to see why the Red Bull BC ONE events are revered in the breakdancing community and among Hip Hop enthusiasts. The Energy of the Crowd The crowd at the Red Bull BC ONE CYPHER was nothing short of electric. Enthusiasts from all over had gathered, each bringing their unique energy. The atmosphere was infectious, with cheers and chants echoing off the walls. As the night progressed, the energy only intensified. Each battle was met with roars of support, turning the lounge into a cauldron of enthusiasm. It was more than just spectators watching a dance battle; it was a community coming together to celebrate artistry. The diversity of the audience was striking. From seasoned breakdancers to curious first-timers, the melting pot of backgrounds added to the richness of the experience. It was a testament to how street dance can unify people from different walks of life. Breakdancing Battles Unleashed What truly set the night apart was the ferocity of the battles. Each dancer brought their A-game to the Red Bull BC ONE CYPHER, showcasing an array of jaw-dropping moves and unique styles. This section highlights the most memorable moments and standout performances that made the competition unforgettable. Shocking Upset: NEBZ def MANA — Not discrediting Nebz (Who’s absolutely the goods on the dance floor) I’m going off of first look basis, and just going into it a competitor in MANA, whom to my understanding was in the Olympics (I could be right or wrong on that) despite of pedigree and accolade…Nebz still brought it to the dance floor and got the victory. Top Matches: Swazi vs Kid Break — Most Intense!!!! Kid Break vs Pop — 2nd Most Intense!!! Nebz vs Lineage — REAL TALK Much Respect to the Youngin’ for non-stop bringing the action, and Nebz for showing love as a vet!!! Michiko vs BGal Niki V: Honestly the victory could’ve went either way Nebz vs MANA — Could’ve went either way, regardless of Upset victory Women’s Final Four: B Girl Magic vs KRAZY went there!!!!! Michiko vs BGal NIKI V — WAS a BATTLE to the END!!! Men’s Final Four: Kid Break vs Swazi (Kid Break def. SWAZI) Gravity vs NEBZ (Gravity def. NEBZ) MENS FINAL: Kid Break vs Gravity: No lie, I feel Gravity should’ve flipped his rounds because Kid Break from 1–3 was just flat out going ape sh__ and quite frankly was making it difficult for the judges not to decide unanimously the new young King Of NYC!!!! WOMEN’S FINAL: Krazy vs BGirl Niki V: YES, BGirl Niki V was giving a fighting chance, as well as staying the course as she did to reach the Finals….but the night just outright belonged to her opponent. KRAZY no questions throughout the BGirl Bracket literally left no rounds behind. Thus, reasoning of her to become the 2025 Champion. Final Results: Men’s CHAMP (B-Boy): Kid Break Women’s CHAMP (B-Girl): KRAZY Standout Performer and Styles Several performances stood out, each bringing something unique to the table. The diversity in styles was a testament to the richness of the breakdancing culture. From traditional power moves to innovative new styles, the variety was astounding. One dancer captivated the audience with a blend of classical and modern techniques, seamlessly transitioning between the two. Their fluidity and control were unmatched, setting a high bar for the rest of the night. Another standout was a group that incorporated storytelling into their routine. They used their performance to convey a powerful message, proving that breakdancing is not just about moves but also about expression. The innovation and creativity on display were truly inspiring. TOP Performers: First off, OMEGA S/o & #ReemoAproved to DJ FLEG….his selection and mixes were bar none TOP NOTCH, as well as really made the event feel complete with the level of what the competitors brought for the event….now onto the Performers!!!!! NEBZ: He made the Final Four for a reason, SWAG, MOVES, DETERMINATION, TECHNIQUE, and just flat out PERFORMER!!! SWAZI: REAL TALK A Potential TOP 5’er of his class to me and just off the first time ever seeing him. LEGIT undeniable T-A-L-E-N-T, showmanship and a half. Honestly, if not facing Kid Break in

Get in tune for Zeddy Will’s “Set The Tone”: Your Backstage Pass to the May 2025 Album Drop

Posted on May 11, 2025 by

What’s it dew #MyCreatives, and hip hop music fans! Ready to add some tracks to your playlist for 2025?!!!! Zeddy Will has his much-awaited album, “Set The Tone.” out now!!!! We got a sneak peek into his creative process, and trust us, it’s straight fire! Zeddy shares what inspired him and gives a hint of what each track might bring. His mix of raw energy and storytelling is something only he can pull off. Are you ready to peek into the mind of one of hip-hop’s rising talents? Let’s dive into this musical journey! Don’t forget to hit him up on Instagram. Creative Process Behind “Set The Tone” “Set The Tone” isn’t just another album for Zeddy Will — it’s a deep dive into his world. Let’s unwrap how he crafted his unique sound and storytelling vibe. Unveiling Artistic Inspirations Zeddy’s got influences from the legends of classic hip-hop to the fresh beats of today. His music is powered by personal stories and cultural moments. It’s like patching together a quilt made of hustle, success, and deep-thinking vibes for the Queensbridge Native. A major influence for Zeddy is the street’s pulse and city’s life, fueling his every beat and line. The live show buzz really gets his creativity flowing, powering a back-and-forth between him and his fans that makes his tracks hit home. According to Zeddy when asked about tracks he would perform at Rolling Loud? He replied, “Twerkin’, Back Back w/ French Montana, and Joe Budden Freestyle.” Also, what drives him to push limits and try out new sounds. For the #RugerSprayyyyyer, I feel: Back Back w/ French Montana Twerkin’ Want That, Need That Twisted I Got You feat Lil TJay Check out his Spotify page for more of his musical journey. Here’s the sitdown one on one interview: Musical Evolution and Themes Reflecting his journey, Zeddy’s taken his music to the next level with “Set The Tone.” This album shows off his big style evolution, blending old-school with new-school vibes. Diverse Soundscapes: From trap beats to soulful grooves, the album covers it all. Lyrical Depth: He tackles themes like identity, strength, and personal growth in his songs. Innovative Production: Cool new production tricks bump up the listening experience. Zeddy’s fearless in pushing his creative limits, making “Set The Tone” a must-listen for both loyal fans and new listeners. This album is about his growth as an artist, showcasing a rich sonic adventure. Already the buzz around town is Zeddy Will’s new album is off the charts. Fans are highly appreciated of the release. Press Runs: Zeddy’s keeping the hype alive with media days, as wellas appearances on major publications, and platforms. A couple of tracks released: Some lucky fans got to hear snippets of unreleased tracks on DSPs. Launch Events: Media Days, Meet & Greets, as well as guest appearances on media platforms. The anticipation was at an all-time high as the release date was near. Zeddy’s drive for going above and beyond hints that “Set The Tone” will meet the expectations. As per usual #MyCreatives, ON TO THE NEXT!!!! Author, Reemo Meerak Follow Me on Social Media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/reemomeerak_ X(Twitter): https://twitter.com/reemomeerak_ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@reemomeerak_ LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareemreemomeeraktyson Subscribe to The Podcast; Reemo Meerak: The C.U.T.S. https://www.youtube.com/@TheCUTS_ For Interviews, Cover your event, write a review, or Features: [email protected] OR [email protected]

#rewindreview: Little Brother ‘Separate But Equal’ 2008

Posted on May 6, 2025May 6, 2025 by

Initially released in 2006 for D.J. Drama’s ‘Gangsta Grillz’ mixtapes, is another project from the North Carolina team that was holding their ground during the mid 2000’s. After a critically acclaimed debut with ‘The Listening’ and a controversial but beneficial follow up album with ‘The Minstrel Show,’ Little Brother needed to keep their brand alive. They no longer had the hope of assistance with a major label and as a group they did not rely on drug raps are artificial street narratives to appeal to the masses. Having a ‘Gangsta Grillz’ tape was a huge thing for them as it put them in front of a crowd that needed (although they will never admit) the co-sign of a major label and want to hear that “ignorant sh!t” (c)Jay-Z. ‘Separate But Equal’ provides a different sound for “LB” that further closes the gap for an audience not keen on “truskool” HOP music. A good thing for that crowd but maybe not as good for day one fans. Hearing D.J. Drama scream his name through the transitions of these tracks was a personal turn off for me so it was a pleasure when the “Drama free” version was available a couple of years later. This release felt more like an album and I could appreciate the songs more but there was still an air of thinking this is not the best “LB,” in terms off songs one could get from the group. Production was provided by 9th Wonder and Khrysis with tracks from Illmind, D.R., The Kreators and Young Cee. All managed to give this release a more rugged vibe to suit the D.J. Drama crowd. Little Brother fans were familiar with featured acts like L.E.G.A.C.Y., Joe Scudda, Chaundon, Skyzoo, Supastition and Darien Brockington but there were a couple of shocking features like Bun B. and Mos Def. My personal issue with this release is the very apparent content and lyrics which saw Big Pooh being even more aggressive in his approach, which feels more like overcompensating for a certain audience than being authentic. For many who discovered Little Brother due to ‘The Minstrel Show’ or later, will probably appreciate this project more as it doesn’t do much in progressing the creativity Little Brother is known for. What did you think of the album? Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 1-3a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD11 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @https://linktr.ee/QLEAPRADIO

Stephanie Mills Shines at Digiwaxx New Music Wednesdays Live

Posted on May 5, 2025May 5, 2025 by

Stephanie Mills’ infectious energy and new music captivated fans at Digiwaxx New Music Wednesdays Live, kicking off her highly anticipated tour. Watch Mills’ Digiwaxx New Music Wednesdays Live interview after the recap! A Night of Joy and Music Stephanie Mills, the unmatched queen of R&B and Broadway, left an indelible mark at the recent Digiwaxx New Music Wednesdays Live event. The evening started with a heartfelt greeting from Mills, who radiated warmth and joy despite her busy schedule. As she took the virtual stage, her vibrant personality and soulful voice uplifted everyone tuning in. Mills captivated the audience with her contagious smile and engaging conversation as she shared valuable insights about her upcoming projects. In particular, she highlighted the highly anticipated “The Queens: 4 Legends, 1 Stage” tour. The tour kicks off in Las Vegas on May 9th, featuring musical legends like Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, and Chaka Khan. Mills, the youngest performer in the lineup, expressed gratitude for the honor of sharing the stage with these iconic artists. Fans can expect an unforgettable experience filled with remarkable performances. Reflecting on a Legendary Career The night revisited Mills’ career, highlighting her early days singing at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Brooklyn. She recalled her role as Dorothy in The Wiz and described her return to theater with Hadestown as a homecoming.”It was like going home,” she said, reminiscing on the welcoming atmosphere and support from fans. During her conversation, Mills gave recognition to the late Frankie Beverly, reflecting on their performances together. “He could do no wrong and sold out everywhere he went,” Stephanie Mills noted. This tribute blended seamlessly with her excitement for the upcoming tour, emphasizing her dedication to honoring musical legacy while continuing to innovate. Bridging Generations of Artists As the conversation progressed, Mills emphasized the importance of longevity in her career. “Believing in yourself, not listening to the noise, and staying focused” has been paramount, she stated. Reflecting on the current music landscape, she observed, “I don’t think young artists today have the same grounding as we did.” This candid admission sparked discussions about the realities faced by emerging artists in a rapidly changing industry. Mills humorously mentioned that the one item she can’t leave home without on tour is her son, highlighting her joy in balancing career and motherhood. She offered valuable advice for working mothers, stressing the importance of connection and love as Mother’s Day approaches. Furthermore, her insights highlight the significance of nurturing relationships, which can enhance both personal and family well-being. In addition, she encourages mothers to foster a supportive environment that strengthens these bonds; consequently, this creates a positive impact on their children’s lives. Moreover, it is essential to recognize that these relationships not only benefit families but also contribute to overall community health. Therefore, taking the time to build and maintain these connections can lead to profound and lasting effects on future generations. New Music and Collaborations The highlight of the evening was Mills’ introduction of her new single, a reimagined version of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” produced by Antoine Qua Richardson. The infectious energy of her new track demonstrates her adeptness at blending classic R&B with modern sounds. Mills expressed excitement about joining “the new wave of dance music,” honoring her roots while connecting with new generations. Artists praised her unmatched voice and inspiring presence at the event.”I grew up with your music,” one fan shared, a testament to Mills’ enduring influence across generations. She engaged warmly with the audience, returning love and gratitude as they shared personal stories. The Future Looks Bright As Digiwaxx New Music Wednesdays Live wrapped up, Mills inspired attendees with hope and excitement for the future. The event set the stage for her tour, “The Queens: 4 Legends, 1 Stage,” promising a performance filled with love and nostalgia. With multiple dates lined up across the country, Mills is set to bring her energy to fans old and new. The evening stood as a reminder of Mills’ rich legacy and bright future in music. As she prepares to hit the road, her profound impact continues to inspire, excite, and unite audiences around the world. Fans eagerly await her performances, excited to celebrate not just the music but the queen herself. In a world craving authenticity, Stephanie Mills shines as a symbol of resilience and artistry. Her new chapter promises an extraordinary display of talent that transcends genres and highlights her versatility and passion. Fans can eagerly anticipate a compelling narrative that weaves her experiences into her artistic evolution, creating an unforgettable experience. This transformation enhances her performances and deepens the connection with her audience, showcasing her enduring impact on the industry. Ultimately, her journey emphasizes the remarkable influence she has made. For more updates, check out Digiwaxx and follow Stephanie Mills on Instagram @iamstephaniemills.

Month: May 2025