Culture Archives - Page 4 of 19

Jermaine Dupri Drops Club-Ready Single “Turn Around” with T.I., 2 Chainz & Young Dro

Posted on July 5, 2025 by

Jermaine Dupri shared with Digiwaxx that before creating this record, he would reach out to DJs and tastemakers to see what the club was missing – and then he’d go right in the studio and deliver exactly that. That’s why he’s always been ahead of the curve. Now, the GRAMMY®-winning producer, Songwriters Hall of Famer, and true cultural icon is back with another banger. His new single “Turn Around,” featuring Atlanta rap royalty T.I., 2 Chainz, and Young Dro, is out today via on all platforms including the Digiwaxx record pool! Serving as the lead single from his highly anticipated full-length album inspired by the upcoming STARZ docuseries Magic City: An American Fantasy (executive produced by JD and premiering August 15, 2025), “Turn Around” is a full celebration of Atlanta’s influence on music and strip club culture. The bass-heavy, club-ready anthem is unapologetically Southern, encouraging women to smile, let loose, and “turn that thing around.” The high-energy video, debuting June 13, captures ATL’s strip club scene in all its rawness, featuring cameos from Bow Wow, 21 Lil Harold, and other local legends. When we interviewed Jermaine Dupri about his new Magic City project and his latest single “Turn Around,” he shared powerful insight into his creative process. Speaking on the writing and production of the track, he told me, “I believe good music is good music.” He went on to explain how he approaches his work with intention, saying, “I see a void, and when I see a void, I try and fill it at all times.” It’s that mindset that has kept him at the forefront of music for decades, always listening to the culture and giving the people exactly what they didn’t even know they were missing. The full project, dropping August 15 alongside the docuseries, brings together an all-star lineup of Atlanta artists, marking the first time a producer from the city has curated an entire album exclusively featuring Atlanta talent across generations and genres. It’s a historic moment, with JD and So So Def once again pushing the culture forward. Fans can expect an immersive listening experience that captures the essence of Atlanta’s iconic strip clubs while honoring the roots, legends, and lasting impact of Magic City on hip-hop and pop culture. As someone who’s witnessed JD’s passion up close, it’s clear he’s always stayed tapped in with his city – showing up for his own with an unshakable sense of hometown pride. With the summer heating up, “Turn Around” is just the start. Get ready for an Atlanta takeover led by one of its founding architects. It’s an Atlanta Summer.

#rewindreview: Camp Lo ‘Short Eyes’ EP 2001

Posted on July 1, 2025 by

With a solid debut album under their belt and a certified hit, Camp Lo needed to make sure they were able to survive the “new millennium.” In comes a very rare “taste test” of a release in an EP called ‘Short Eyes.’ If one listened to the last remaining college radio shows around this time or knew D.J.’s who were in support of HOP music, a track or two from this release might have been heard like ‘Sunkiss’ or ‘Baby Mother.’ Otherwise you might have needed to be in Japan or perusing online outlets like ‘sandboxautomatic’ to own this EP. Much like the records title the listener is granted a short collection of new music from Camp Lo. The group continues their signature raps that often can seem to need a translator but still keep it as “fly” and stylish as they can be while paying homage to 1970’s black films. Although the film this references is much darker in contrast to the vibes one hears on the release. Camp Lo manages to keep the party groove throughout the twenty minutes of this EP and they seemed to assimilate easy into the “cha cha” sound that came with popular music from about 1999 to 2002. The record is consistent and gives insight into where the group was heading musically but it does not break any ground or has those obvious moments of greatness their debut album has. For the Camp Lo fan they would be satisfied, and even the fly by night listener of HOP music, if they could understand their lyrics. What did you think of the album Singles include: ‘Army’ & ‘Baby Mother’ 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

#reemoapproved Review: Deep Dive on “Soak” – Ferrari Francheyez ft. Alicia Nicole

Posted on June 29, 2025 by

Ferrari Francheyez stays cooking—this time he brings a nocturnal gem called “Soak”, featuring Alicia Nicole on the vocals. This joint isn’t just another track—it’s an immersive experience that drips in late-night mood. Production & Sonic Texture Right from the jump, “Soak” opens with atmospheric pads that feel drenched in echo, then jumps into a groove that walks the line between chillwave and neo-R&B. Percussion is sparse but sharp—kick tight, snare crisp, layered over a low-end that gives you space to nod your head or close your eyes and lean in. The transitions? Seamless. The drops? Subtle but powerful. It ain’t your loud club banger—it’s that midnight zone vibe, where the speakers hum in the background while your mind wanders. Alicia Nicole Brings the Juice Alicia Nicole’s voice—smoky, effortless, dripping with bite and honey at the same time. In the verses, she whispers confidence; in the chorus, she swells and soars. And that bridge? Emotional fireworks. Those layered harmonies got me hitting replay—the kind of vocal texture that colors the whole atmosphere. Lyrics & Themes On the surface, “Soak” is a sensual rocker—about letting someone else pull you in, letting feelings soak in like rain. But the writing’s got layers: an invitation to immerse yourself not just in the moment, but in emotion, memory, and atmosphere. Lyrics weave between desire and introspection—”let me soak in your world,” “let me feel every drop of truth”—you feel the water metaphors dripping. Genre-Blending & Vibe Crossover This ain’t locked into one lane. It rides the fine line between neo-soul, alternative R&B, and indie pop, with just enough swagger to slide into hip hop playlists. This is that track you vibe with through headphones at 2 AM or push through your subwoofers while cruising city streets. 🔄 Bringing in the Reemo Flavor If you peeped Reemo’s recent podcast—check him here—you know he’s about introspection, vibe, and lyrical wave. “Soak” definitely aligns. Production choice? Check. Emotional depth? Check. That modern-meets-soul edge that keeps it fresh? 100 %. Track Reference Here’s the straight-up link to stream “Soak”—plug in, lean back, and soak it all in: https://open.spotify.com/track/2tQSUUnNuxFN57iYLbOXoF?si=70ecfadc27e24ea1 Final Verdict – #ReemoApproved Let me say it plain—“Soak” is #ReemoApproved. It holds that essential balance: slick production, profound lyricism, and a hook that grabs you but still keeps that introspective soul intact. Alicia Nicole’s voice seals the deal, while Ferrari Francheyez’s sonic architecture gives you space to absorb it all. Put this on heavy rotation, drop it in your nighttime and late‑drive playlists—it’s built for vibe consumption and mood immersion. 🔗 All the Links for Your Playlist Stream Alicia Nicole: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7ySJVHZduPd5H2B0JFVug9?si=Kv2Bmm–ShyL-KmNnlYUSw Hit the track: https://open.spotify.com/track/2tQSUUnNuxFN57iYLbOXoF?si=70ecfadc27e24ea1 Cash-in with Francheyez: https://open.spotify.com/artist/25BMF4NeHRTkcut0BkvMvn?si=d1jfHsYbR3yXW8fDnggZ5g Stream Reemo for full vibe and PODCAST synergy: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ufZwa4vy53itfA3N2LVe1?si=1022dddeab794a35 Drop me your thoughts—what part hit hardest? The flicker in the chorus, the way Alicia lands that hook, or those atmospheric breakdowns? Let’s chop it up. As per usual, #MYCreatives ….onto the next!!!! 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: Ali Shaheed Muhammad ‘Shaheedullah And Stereotypes’ 2004

Posted on June 24, 2025 by

My expectation for a solo album from Ali Shaheed Muhammad, the third member of A Tribe Called Quest, was it would be a compilation record, with a myriad of different artist. Instead the solo debut ‘Shaheedullah And Stereotypes’ is “Ali’s” moment to get on the mic and rap as well as “try” to sing. It’s been twenty years since this album dropped which flew a bit under the radar. After solo albums from Q-Tip and Phife Dawg, and a reunion tour happening with no new “Tribe” record in sight, Ali took to the studio and created a very hefty album with some surprising creatives. I always thought growing up that Ali was the man behind the beats for A Tribe Called Quest but as it turns out the main person was Q-Tip so on ‘Shaheedullah And Stereotypes’ he takes the main floor for production along with Houston T.X.’s own Chris “Daddy” Dave. The two put together an album that initially was a bit of a “head scratcher” but over time this album has aged well and let’s just say with today’s current events, the content seem prophetic. Ali Shaheed Muhammad enlist rappers such as Chip-Fu from the Fu Schnickens and Kay who also has been a veteran staple in the Houston Hip-Hop music scene. This album is not all HOP music and gives Ali a chance to satisfy the short lived Lucy Pearl era with some soul, R&B and dance music. On this release the legendary Stokley Williams of Mint Condition assists along with an up and coming Sy Smith, and Wallace Gary. On paper this album seems to have a lot going on but as it has aged, it also is very clear that these names mentioned were a tight nit group that put this album together and made it feel like a moment for “Tribe’s” third member. For me personally this album was special because of it’s hefty connection to HUEston. With A Tribe Called Quest being one of my favorite groups and arguably the greatest group in HOP music, it was inspiring to see a legend like “Ali” recognize and work with the talent that is often overlooked and underappreciated in this city. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Elevated Orange’ & ‘Banga’ 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: Punk Barbarians ‘Sex, Props & Cream’ 1996

Posted on June 17, 2025June 17, 2025 by

In the 1990’s HOP music was at it’s strongest point because it was building on the decade before with rappers and the music discovering it’s potential. Labels were taking chances, media was exposing acts and listeners were hungry for the next new thing. With all of that innovation the genre also witnessed a lot of acts that were “one and done.” This was usually caused by those acts never being that good or the consolidation of media and record labels by 1997. Here we have Punk Barbarians who debuted in 1996 from the Long Island area of New York. They consisted of four rappers Sunny Cheeba, Bam Bam, Doozer and Renegade (a.k.a. Shine On). My initial introduction to them was a song called ‘Bubblin’ which I remembered seeing the video but never got into the song. ‘Blast Off’ I happen to catch one the few times it was played on Rap City and I was loving this track, to which I didn’t realize this was the same group with the ‘Bubblin’ song. Fast forward at least seven years, I find this album to give it a listen and I was blown away by at least the beats. ‘Sex, Props & Cream’ is an album that highlights those elements which seem to drive HOP music at that time and arguably still today. The subtext of this album is “the drama in between” which is what the group claims to deal with on the record. What listeners will hear from the group is a lot of free flowing ideas, mixed with a bit of comedic presence, but not much in substance for content. The music provided by Poisoned Ivy is the highlight and glue that keeps this album afloat. Ironically the ‘Bubblin’ track they released as a single is a different version than what’s on the album, which had they used I might have been in support much earlier. If one is a fan of the swing bass and heavy thump the mid-1990’s provided, they will be or were satisfied by this release. To this day I still don’t understand the meaning of the groups name which just adds to the macabre nature of their “one and done” moment in HOP music. I do however appreciate this album and it’s always a fun listen whenever I return to it. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Blast Off,’ ‘Bubblin’ & ‘Hooptie Car’ 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 Showcase Brings Emerging Talent to the Rooftop Stage in Midtown Manhattan

Posted on June 13, 2025June 13, 2025 by

Zaecinco rocks the crowd at Digiwaxx New Music Wednesday showcase. Digiwaxx hosted a vibrant showcase spotlighting emerging talent at The Penthouse, a sleek rooftop venue in Midtown Manhattan, on Wednesday night, June 11th. The event was a collaborative effort with DWI of Damatrix Studios and Terrell Blair of Military Grind Entertainment, hosted by Bee Ex with DJ Epidemik on the turntables, and sponsered by Don Londres Tequilla. Among the standout performers was Zaecinco, who energized the crowd with catchy tracks like “Rock Star Shit” and “Rain,” delivering an engaging and interactive set that helped set the tone for the evening. Yah-Sin, a Wu-Tang Clan affiliate, followed with razor-sharp bars and a commanding stage presence that captivated the audience. Femme fatale Miranda Writes kept the momentum going with a confident performance of her rising single “That Girl,” met with an enthusiastic response from the crowd. Other highlights included hip-hop act Benny Milano, who delivered seductive performances of “Freak 2” and “Chedda,” and BkSyren, who moved the audience with “City of Syrens,” a heartfelt ballad dedicated to the urban experience. Producer-emcee duo SignalCoast offered a refreshing change of pace with their enigmatic style and introspective verses. Veteran emcee Agallah the Don riled up the crowd with high-energy performances from his latest album Black Rich Port 2, including “Fuegito” and “Nuyorican Flex.” During his set, he introduced his protégé M-Tundra, whose poignant verses focused on unity within hip-hop culture. Emcee X-YLE brought raw intensity to the stage with the track “Run it Up,” while Naaybaybee turned the energy up another notch with her infectious track “Litty Again.” KLD Wave followed with a spirited verse that showcased his lyrical arsenal, adding another layer of dynamic wordplay to the night. The showcase came to a memorable close with crooners Stevie K and Tee Xscape, who ended the evening on a high note, leaving the rooftop crowd buzzing with excitement. With the city skyline glowing behind them and a hungry crowd soaking in every beat, the Digiwaxx rooftop showcase was more than just a night of performances—it was a statement. From gritty lyricism to smooth melodies, each artist brought a unique flavor to the stage, reaffirming that New York’s underground scene is not only alive but evolving. As the night came to a close, it was clear: this wasn’t just a showcase, it was a launchpad. If you weren’t in the room, you missed a piece of the future. But don’t worry—Digiwaxx is just getting started!

#rewindreview: Kool Keith ‘Sex Style’ 1997

Posted on June 10, 2025 by

This Bronx M.C. has had one of the most interesting careers in HOP music that he has been in complete control of. From Ultramagnetic M.C.’s to a spaced out horrorcore act as Dr. Octagon, Kool Keith created a lane for an acquired listener, while paving a path for the “alias” within the existing character, music acts already portray. ‘Sex Style’ is the debut solo album for “Kool Keith” and if one is not familiar with the rapper EVERYTHING about this album, from it’s cover art to the content will feel confusing or cheap. How do I know this, because I was that outsider at one point. I would constantly see this album in stores and look past it as around this time the era of “bad cover art” (certain record labels shall remain nameless) was in full effect along with horrible rappers on those albums. Kool Keith’s name I knew of in passing but did not KNOW him like that. At the time a college radio show I listened to was playing tracks like ‘Sly We Fly,’ ‘Lovely Lady’ and ‘Plastic World.’ These songs all seemed strange and I could not wrap my head around their purpose. Ironically around this time is when “Keith” was appearing on different projects and it was almost destined for me to delve into his back catalog up to this point. I finally get around to ‘Sex Style’ and between understanding the Kool Keith brand and hearing those songs I initially heard on college radio, I can appreciate the album for what it is. The record is an “anti-underground Hip-Hop” album that plays (or jokes depending one’s point of view) on the over sexualized corner of HOP music. In the many personas of Kool Keith we get the pimp that controls all the prostitutes of the industry (rappers) and has them doing the wildest acts while also getting songs of comedic filth that goes against the grain of any “truskool” HOP music listener. Kool Keith has always been about disruption and destroying barriers within HOP music while also being one of the most abstract acts in the genre. ‘Sex Style’ creates the sound of Kool Keith and his many personas from the Kut Master Kurt and T.R. Love production but beware when “soundbombing” this album while driving in your car or in your residence. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Don’t Crush It,’ ‘Wanna Be A Star,’ & ‘Plastic World’ 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: Boogie Down Productions ‘Sex & Violence’ 1992

Posted on June 3, 2025 by

Around the age of twenty I began to go back and dig into the Boogie Down Production catalog. I was always a fan of the singles that were released and KRS-One as a rapper but by the year 2000 certain HOP music sounded outdated, or so I thought. Finding the BDP ‘Live Hardcore Worldwide’ release, sparked my motivation to go down the rabbits hole to which I eventually got to ‘Sex & Violence.’ Upon my initial listens back then I didn’t think it held much weight, especially among the previous albums. Like music should do though, ‘Sex & Violence’ appreciated over time. This is due to it’s very raw approach but also the sound was the biggest it had been for a Boogie Down Production album. Pal Joey, Kenny Parker, D-Square, Prince Paul and KRS-One himself, provided music that could compete with a new hardcore era of HOP music in the early 1990’s. More importantly the songs on this album were like a time capsule for anyone who forgot or did not live through 1992. From the conversation of Mike Tyson’s assault case, to the Gulf War, “KRS” pinned some incredible songs with parallels to reality. ‘Drug Dealer,’ posing a question or solution to the ever growing street pharmacist about how to invest in the community if you are going to sell to that community. ‘Questions & Answers’ is one of KRS’ most creatively executed songs as he interviews himself on why his music takes the stance it does. Nas who has been known to look up to ‘Tha Teacha,’ took a page from this album with his track ‘Destroy & Rebuild,’ attacking his rap antagonist as on ‘Sex & Violence’ ‘Build & Destroy’ is KRS-One’s response to X Clan’s criticism about his ideology and being “pro-black.’ enough. The album as I initially stated is one that can not simply be glossed over as I might have done on my first listens. It deserves more credit and to be understood as a real examination of an era. Over the last decade narratives have been made about the song ’13 & Good’ which were not present when this album was released and years after it’s release; causing the song to get lost in context possibly due to a generation who was not there or have an agenda against KRS-One. The track clearly does not promote predatory actions toward minors but instead the issue of adult establishments, at that time allowing for minors to frequent these venues and the consequences that were attached with it. Another form of storytelling from ‘Tha Teacha’ in congruent with tracks like ‘Loves Gonna Getcha.’ With this being the last Boogie Down Productions album and KRS-One’s first solo outing coming the next year, ‘Sex & Violence’ almost gets lost in the overall discography. It is however one of the most conscious rap albums in the genre from the cover artwork to the content. What did you think about the album? Singles include: ’13 & Good,’ ‘Duck Down’ & ‘We In There’ 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: 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.

Category: Culture