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United Masters GETS THE POWER PLAYERS FOR 5th installment of SELECT-CON!!!

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Reemo was on a media hot streak, and wrapping up he attends; United Masters’ SELECT-CON. A panel series conference that brings together industry experts, artists, creatives, and brands to share insights with the independent creative community. The conference includes: Fireside chats, Panels, Workshops, Upfronts, Performances. Also, they had an after party with selected independent music artist across the world who are hitting the charts, and making noise in the indy scene. Hosted By T.T. Torrez (HOT 97FM), Ivy Rivera, Dometi, Panelists: Earn Your Leisure, Davido, Love Renaissance Records, Tokischa, and Steve Stoute                                                                                                                                

Digiwaxx Media Correspondent Reemo Meerak Covers “Jack of All Trades” Event Honoring Bartenders in Brooklyn

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Brooklyn, New York – On Monday, October 16, 2023, the Margot restaurant, bar, and event space hosted an extraordinary gathering of mixology talents and cocktail enthusiasts. The “Jack of All Trades” event, presented by the renowned Jack Daniel’s and Punch brands, celebrated the artistry of bartending and paid tribute to the exceptional skills of bartenders Kat Foster and Marc Rodriguez. Digiwaxx Media correspondent Reemo Meerak was there to capture all the highlights and bring you the inside scoop on this memorable event. Bartending is an art that demands creativity, precision, and an unyielding passion for crafting libations. The Jack Daniel’s X Punch “Jack of All Trades” event was the perfect occasion to recognize these talents. The event opened its doors to an eager crowd of cocktail aficionados, industry professionals, and Brooklyn locals, who were excited to celebrate the exceptional talents of the evening’s guest bartenders, Kat Foster and Marc Rodriguez. Both of these award-winning mixologists have made significant contributions to the craft, earning their place at the forefront of the bartending world. Throughout the evening, attendees were treated to a delightful array of deliciously paired food and finely crafted cocktails. In addition to the food and cocktails, the “Jack of All Trades” event featured insightful discussions and presentations by industry leaders, bartenders, mixologists, and cocktail enthusiasts. Guest had the opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and inspiration from standout figures in the bartending world. The sharing of insights, techniques, and innovative ideas played a pivotal role in the bartending community and ensuring that the craft continues to evolve. Kat Foster, an innovator in the cocktail scene, showcased her impeccable mixology skills by preparing a selection of signature drinks, each a masterpiece in its own right. Her craft was a true testament to the art of bartending, leaving attendees in awe of her talents. Marc Rodriguez, a Brooklyn native, brought his unique blend of flavors and techniques to the event, proving that the borough continues to be a breeding ground for mixology greatness. The crowd applauded both Kat and Marc for their incredible work and dedication to their craft. As the event came to a close, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of camaraderie and appreciation for the craft of bartending. Attendees left with a renewed passion for mixology and a greater understanding of the dedication and artistry that go into every drink prepared by a skilled bartender. Digiwaxx Media correspondent Reemo was on the scene, capturing the essence of the “Jack of All Trades” event. Reemo’s coverage will provide a glimpse into the world of bartending and the dedication of individuals like Kat Foster and Marc Rodriguez who continue to elevate the craft to new heights. Cheers to the bartenders and the brands that make it all possible!

#rewindreview: Pete Rock ‘Return Of The SP1200’ (2019)

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  It’s 2019 and why not get a collection of past beats made on an SP1200 from the legendary Pete Rock. After starting the trend of putting out instrumental HOP albums on 2001’s ‘Petestrumentals,’ “PR” knows there is an audience that wants to hear that classic sound from him. On ‘Return Of The SP1200’ the audience will recognize a few familiar tunes of the past that were used, never officially came out, or have recently been resurrected. The Meccalicious heater ‘How You Feel’ is the beat for ‘Hope You World Don’t Stop,’ while we get the instrumental for the Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth’s ‘Death Becomes You’ off the ‘Menace II Society’ soundtrack. There is also a deep cut, ‘Street Dreams’ which is actually an unreleased Pete Rock remix for Nas’ ‘Street Dreams’ remix, Pete rock only played on a ‘Future Flavas’ show. While the track ‘Kool Jazz’ has been recently used by Paul Wall & Termanology on their track called ‘Recognize My Car.’ The usage of melodic samples and filtered basslines as loops are attributes that have captivated Pete Rock fans for years. This is classic Pete Rock beats and if you are fan of one of the greatest moments in his career, which was the mid to late 1990’s, one will be pleased and taken down a trip of days past. ‘Return Of The SP1200’ is not only a return previous production but a return of a feeling. What did you think of the album? Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

“So So Def Presents A 30th Anniversary Tribute Performance At The 2023 BET Hip-Hop Awards”

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Jermaine Dupri and So So Def marked a significant milestone, celebrating the label’s 30th anniversary with an unforgettable medley of their greatest hits at the 2023 BET Hip-Hop Awards. So So Def, founded in 1993, emerged as one of the most prominent record labels of its era, not just in the south. Initially propelled by Dupri’s success with the multi-platinum rap duo Kris Kross, the label went on to produce legendary acts such as Xscape, Jagged Edge, Bow Wow, and the first female soloist in rap to achieve Platinum status, Da Brat. Continuing its legacy into the 2000s, So So Def expanded its roster to include artists like the soulful crooner Anthony Hamilton and Atlanta-based rap groups like Bone Crusher, YoungBloodz, Dem Franchise Boyz, and many more. The performance began with Jermaine Dupri paying tribute to Kris Kross and their 1992 hit “Jump.” Wearing a backwards Atlanta Braves jersey as a nod to the iconic duo, Dupri took the audience on a nostalgic journey back to the birth of the So So Def era. He shared, “Back in 1991, I was sitting in my room, and I wrote this song,” before performing the opening verse and chorus. Ludacris then joined Dupri on stage for their 2002 anthem, “Welcome 2 Atlanta,” both donning Atlanta sports jerseys that electrified the audience. last year when Jermaine Dupri sat down with complex, he revealed that he was the youngest producer at that time to have a number one record and even was listed in the Guinness World Records. The set continued with Lil Jon taking the stage and thrilling the crowd with YoungBloodz’s 2003 track, “Damn!” followed by his own hit, “Snap Yo Fingers.” Bone Crusher brought his thunderous party starter, “Neva Scared,” to the performance, and Nelly made a surprise appearance, teaming up with JD for their 2005 chart-topping hit, “Grillz.” Throughout the performance, dancers dressed in Atlanta Braves jerseys and So So Def shirts added to the festive atmosphere as Dupri and his collaborators delved into their treasure trove of anthems. Dupri himself performed his breakout hit, “Money Ain’t a Thang,” and the mood shifted to a more intimate setting when Tyrese and Chingy joined him for “Pullin Me Back.” Dupri, 50 years old, proudly declared, “I write the songs that the whole world sings,” highlighting his extensive catalog and enduring career and how the songs he wrote still make us move to this day. The So So Def reunion wouldn’t be complete without the presence of Bow Wow and Da Brat, both of whom joined Dupri and Dem Franchize Boyz for a spirited rendition of the “I Think They Like Me” remix, concluding the performance on a joyous and nostalgic note. Babyface once told Jermaine Dupri that in order to make history, he would have to make magic in the studio consistently after the success of Kris Kross, needless to say 30 years later we are still dancing and celebrating all of So So Def’s hit records. “Jermaine Dupri Celebrates 30 years of so so def with star-studded Medley at 2023 BET Hip Hop Awards”. www.billboard.com. October 10, 2023. October 11, 2023. “Hip Hop Awards 2023: so so Def’s 30th Anniversary Performance Was a Trip Down Memory Lane”. www.bet.com. October 10, 2023. October 11, 2023.

#rewindreview: Lord Finesse ‘Return Of The Funky Man’ (1992)

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  The second album from the ‘Funky Man’ Lord Finesse was literally a return to what he had already given on his debut album ‘Funky Technician’ with D.J. Mike Smooth. By 1992 HOP music was becoming even more popular and with that comes a change in sound and content. The weird thing about that year was with the success of West Coast “gangsta rap,” rappers outside those borders had to shift and sound more edgy to compete. On ‘Return Of The Funky Man’ Lord Finesse seems caught in this quagmire which prevents this record from having the flare his previous album had by just being in the moment and having fun. This album at times felt like Finesse was trying to overcompensate for the change of hardcore content in HOP music. ‘Return Of the Funky Man’ is still a solid release but it also leans too much on what made the previous album work with certain songs sounding like a carbon copy of tracks off ‘Funky Technician.’ Production is handled by the D.I.T.C. crew which include Showbiz, Diamond D. and Lord Finesse himself, with some outside production from D.J. Aladdin and some early production work from Shafiq Husayn on ‘Save That Ish.’ Lord Finesse is really trying to make a statement with this album of being an elite M.C. The majority of the tracks are more competitive rap content but also the “underestimated” narrative most people can relate to whether it be in relationships or career success. It might not be Lord Finesse’s best album but the record opened the door for M.C.’s like Percee P., Shel Rumble, Harry-O and the up and coming D.I.T.C. member A.G. Lord Finesse clearly learned from this album and “trimmed the fat” for ‘The Awakening’ that would be released a few years later. Would did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Return Of The Funky Man’ & ‘Party Over Here’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

Is Drake Ushering In A New Era With The Release Of His Eighth Studio Album, Titled “For All the Dogs”?

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After months of eager anticipation from his fans, prolific Canadian artist Drake has officially dropped his eighth studio album, titled “For All the Dogs.” Previously, the acclaimed rapper had teased his social media followers with the promise of a release last month, only to face an unexpected delay, the reasons for which remained undisclosed. However, on Friday, October 6, the album finally graced streaming platforms. Drake, whose real name is Aubrey Graham, excitedly shared the news with his dedicated fan base through an Instagram post, featuring a striking picture of himself. “FOR ALL THE DOGS IS YOURS NOW,” he captioned his post, accompanied by a spotted dog emoji. Spanning an impressive 23 tracks, Drake’s latest album boasts a runtime of one hour and 24 minutes, solidifying its position as one of his lengthiest releases to date. This year, Drake has made guest appearances on songs by fellow rappers like J Hus, Central Cee, Young Thug, and Travis Scott. In his illustrious career, Drake has achieved a total of 12 Billboard No. 1 albums. Among these, two stand out from last year: “Honestly, Nevermind,” which delved into dance music and dropped in June, and “Her Loss,” a rap-centric project featuring 21 Savage, released in November. The question remains on whether it’s time for Drake to take a break, or will he be ushering in a new era with this album? In a recent candid interview, Drake has made it clear that his health is now his top priority. During an episode of the show “Table for One” on SiriusXM’s Sound 42, Drake announced that he will be taking a break from music to address health concerns that have been troubling him. Drake opened up about the “craziest problems” he’s been experiencing with his stomach, which have prompted him to make the decision to go on hiatus for what he estimates could be “maybe a year.” In a recent statement Drake said “I probably won’t make music for a little bit. I’m gonna be honest,” he confessed on the show. “I got some other things I need to do for some other people that I made promises to, but I probably won’t make music for a little bit. I’m gonna be real with you. I need to focus on my health first and foremost and I’ll talk about that soon enough.” Drake is undoubtedly deserving of a well-earned respite. In a span of less than two decades, he has shattered numerous longstanding records on Billboard’s charts, and he shows no signs of slowing down. At present, he holds the record for the Hottest 100 hits among all artists, boasting an impressive 299 entries on the chart, which includes an astounding dozen No. 1 hits and an unprecedented 70 top 10 placements. Additionally, he has achieved the remarkable feat of charting 12 No. 1 albums, and it appears that he’s on the brink of adding yet another to his already impressive list of accomplishments. “Drake releases new album For All the Dogs: Tracklist, features and everything we know”. www.independent.co.uk/us. October 6, 2023.October 6, 2023. Drake is taking a break from music: “I’ve been having the craziest problems for years with my stomach”. www.avclub.com. October 6, 2023. October 6, 2023

Outkast’s ‘Speakerboxxx/The Love Below’ Achieves The Title Of The Best-Selling Hip-Hop Album In History

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OutKast’s 2003 album “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below” has become the best-selling rap album of all time, surpassing 13x platinum with over 13 million units sold. This achievement places the classic hip-hop album, known for hits like “Hey Ya!” and “The Way You Move,” in the top position ahead of Eminem’s “The Eminem Show.” The album was originally a double album, with one solo disc from Big Boi and another from André 3000, marking a significant moment in their hip-hop career. Big Boi celebrated this milestone on Instagram, emphasizing Outkast’s enduring impact. The album was a massive success, with songs like “The Way You Move” and “Hey Ya!” reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Outkast won three Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, with “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below.” Lauryn Hill’s “Miseducation” is the only other hip-hop album to have won that award. “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below” is one of only seven hip-hop albums to be certified diamond, signifying sales of 10 million units or more. Other diamond-certified albums include 2Pac’s “All Eyez On Me” and “Greatest Hits,” The Notorious B.I.G.’s “Life After Death,” and Eminem’s “The Marshall Mathers LP.” Lauryn Hill’s “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” Beastie Boys’ “License to Ill,” and Eminem’s “Curtain Call: The Hits” have each sold 10 million units. Now what’s cooler than being cool? Ice Cold and best-selling of all time, obviously! “Outkast claim title of having best-selling rap album of all time“. www.11alive.com. October 3, 2023. October 4, 2023.

#REWINDREVIEW: KRS-One ‘Return Of The Boom Bap’ (1993)

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  This is how you know time must be moving faster these days because at the time of the release of this album, KRS-One was considered “old school.” This was thirty years ago almost to the date that ‘Return Of The Boom Bap’ blessed our ears. It is the debut album for KRS-One as a solo act and although all he did was drop the “Boogie Down Productions” moniker, this album felt like we had never heard this from him. KRS was in a zone on this record and it truly felt like he was in his “second childhood.” ‘Return Of The Boom Bap’ never lets up in terms of song interest and personally over the years the few songs I thought were the weakest initially, have grown to be my favorite tracks. There is a magic to what “The Teacha” has been able to do all these years and as simple as it may be to say he is one of the greatest it’s harder to pinpoint that said magic. KRS is one of the greatest orators in this hip-hop culture and he has been able to activate that trait on all of his releases, even the latter ones that might not have been received well. KRS knows that the ultimate battleground is the live stage so when songs like ‘Uh Oh’ are made it’s not just an album cut but crafted for the audience to be fully immersed in during a live show. This is why ‘Return Of The Boom Bap’ is not only a classic in KRS-One’s catalog but HOP music in general. The whole album could be performed live by itself. From ‘Outta Here’ to the uncontrolled energy of ‘I Can’t Wake Up,’ to the unexpected hit still heard in movies and shows today, ‘Sound Of Da Police,’ KRS amassed a selection of tracks that provide the perfect mix of “Edutainment.” Still available to serve you on the mic with ‘Mad Crew,’ the importance of black women on ‘Brown Skin Woman,’ questioning the religion handed to slaves on ‘Higher Level’ is The Teacha in his most prestigious moment on this release. To make this album more tight nit is the production of D.J. Premier, Showbiz, Kid Capri and KRS himself. A combination of names that in 1993 had no choice but to succeed. If it isn’t obvious by now I’ll say that this is one of my favorite albums, even before I started calling KRS-One the greatest. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Outta Here,’ ‘Sound Of Da Police’ & ‘Return Of The Boom Bap’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

#rewindreview: T-Love ‘Return Of The B-Girl’ EP (1998)

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  The West Coast B-Girl, T-Love touched down with a quick but heavy debut in ‘Return Of The B-Girl.’ My introduction to her was on D.J. Rhettmatic’s (Beat Junkies) ‘World Famous Beat Junkies Vol.2’ mixtape. The track ‘I’m Comin’ was this sort of spooky mix of raw HOP music with a ladies voice that was mixed and cut to perfection in which D.J. Rhettmatic is a professional at. Still it wasn’t until about a year later that I would hear a couple of other songs from T-Love during the beginning of internet streaming radio in 1999. Those cuts were ‘L.A. To Brooklyn’ featuring Siah & Yeshua Da PoED and the title track of this EP featuring Kool Keith, who at that time I was becoming a huge fan of due to his left of center rhyming and content. T-Love uses this twenty minutes of HOP music to showcase a “no fear” style of rhyming with a voice that commanded respect. Rapping alongside the aforementioned M.C.’s is a task and on ‘Wanna-Beez’ featuring Chali 2na (Jurassic 5) the two’s back and forth on the track makes one realize how as listeners we took for granted the effect of collaborations in a studio verses being emailed in. The record is produced by This Kid Name Miles (yes that’s his name) who provided T-Love with some awesome beats that although are well within the lines of “truskool” HOP music, do not sound the same or get stagnant. My biggest issue with this release as that it was only an EP. This is appreciated these days as so many releases leave listeners fatigued while a record like ‘Return Of The B-Girl’ made you wait with bated breath, only adding value to the project and one’s listening experience. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘I’m Comin’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

#REWINDREVIEW: Big K.R.I.T. ‘Return Of 4eva’ (2011)

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  For me Big K.R.I.T. was apart of that list or upcoming rappers that wiggled their way out of the internet in the latter part of the 2000’s. At this time that scenario turned me off to many acts because it was yet another wave of oversaturation that obviously got much worse since then. It might have been the video single for ‘Dreamin’ that made me finally give K.R.I.T. a listen. This track was not what I expected from younger acts at the time and definitely not what I expected to hear from someone from the state I was born in. What I got with ‘Return Of 4eva’ was not only a treat but glimpse into what the future could behold. At this time I am recognizing the likes of Kendrick Lamar and Joey Bada$$ and finally feeling like I can support younger acts. The common denominator with those three was that around this time they were putting out undeniable material. ‘Return Of 4eva’ is a sonic BOOM and Big K.R.I.T.’s influences are all over this album but only he mixes those influences to create his own original meal. It did not take the Meridian, M.S. rapper to get to his 40’s to talk about real life situations that the common man can relate to. From the ‘Highs & Lows’ of life, the feeling of soundbombing while riding in your car in The South to releasing stress brought on by reality. Big K.R.I.T. planted his flag with this album and although it is a full record with twenty-one songs you often forget the length when heat after heat is constantly playing. One of the most amazing attributes of this album is it’s completely produced by Big K.R.I.T. and is not feature heavy. Fellow Mississippian David Banner makes an appearance while Chamillionaire takes time from tech investments and Joi lends her Atlantic vocals adding to the southern feel of this record. Big K.R.I.T.’s longtime collaborator Big Sant joins him on ‘Made Alot’ which channels U.G.K. but the D.N.A. of Goodie M.O.B. is present and welcome on the most enlightening track ‘Another Naive Individual Glorifying Greed & Encouraging Racism.’ One can understand the acronym this song represents and for me only stamped my approval of K.R.I.T. much like when Cee-Lo broke down the meaning of Goodie M.O.B. on ‘Fighting.’ This album deserves more praise when talking about those early 2010 releases that were more than just place holders on peoples minds and ears for about a week. Big K.R.I.T. is a case study on how knowing what came before you can birth the best of what you have coming. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Dreamin’ & ‘The Vent’ Listen to QUANTUM LEAP RADIO every Saturday from 4-6p.m. CST & Thursday from 3-5a.m. CST on 90.1 FM KPFT Houston in HD2 Worldwide @kpft.org/listen/ & TuneIn app (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @fanlink.to/QuantumLeapRadio

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