Ricky Bats: “How Real Is That?!!!!” Music Review

What makes Ricky Bats continue? The Bronx is heavily known within the Hip Hop Culture, and Music for having hard working and impactful figures that captivated many with their skillset, creativity, and energy. Most def’n had the opportunity to chop’it up with one of the best in the independent circuit with Bronx Native; Ricky Bats. He has a new album coming soon, and currently just dropped the single and music video; “How Real Is That?!!!” Ricky Bats, beloved definitely appreciate you giving us your time, off the rip with that funny yet, serious line; “N_____s be Suckin’ their teeth, you got a slow leak, what you got a flat?!!!!…” do you feel Hip Hop Music has lost its way with having “Fun” in the bars, or it’s the sign of the times it’s returning with the way the lyrics have been written by artists as of late? RB: Hip Hop was based off of having fun. Once it started getting into the gangsta style of music, it turned more into the street music, and with the modern day rap music, I hear less witty lines in it. With you directing, and editing your own music video, do you feel artists should go more that route, or is it one of those “If Need be” type decisions? RB: I think as an artist you need to know everything in this music industry in order to understand it better. It’s just more than studio and recording your records. There’s understanding the business. I’m still learning the business aspect to it. I got into directing and shooting my own videos, because I feel like no one could express my vision more than me. And plus my life is so random. That a video guy or director is not gonna be around at all times with me and capture certain moments. So whoever’s with me at the time, I’ll give them the camera and they can record and get thos random moments. How was it working with Hip Hop Legend; Fredro Starr on the track, what was the over/under with the beat selection? RB: It’s always a dope experience working with Dro. Shit he’s a legend! If we’re not recording in the studio together, he will send me a batch of beats, and I go through them. “How Real Is That?!!!!” on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/7pBiUWoLkQQqCs1I7BO05d?si=7M3osTpSTZ6p7NBTr3EMXw For your upcoming album; “100 Bats” what should we expect, and any chance you lets us know of the surprising features? RB: I have no major features on this album. Other than Fredro Starr (Producer), I have two artists that are on this project l’ve worked with, Brigavelli she’s a dope R&B singer. She’s on four records on the album, and I have this young artist i’ve been working with as well, R Hoody. Now being the vet in Hip Hop, as well as a potent figure in the Independent Circuit, what else do you feel is needed for you to still maintain your stance in the culture? RB: Just growing!!! Not staying stagnant at the same level. Take a chance and being creative with music, marketing and promoting. Staying consistent. ‘Cause once you stay consistent, you could notice the difference with everyone else that isn’t consistent. Do you feel streaming numbers can hinder an artist’s talent, and with that could be the one of the factors why some music that’s out today seems “Mediocre”? RB: I don’t think streaming numbers can hinder talent. Talent is talent and numbers’ are numbers…  Again, it comes down to marketing and promoting. Streaming is not paying artist what we they deserve. It’s a different day and age with this music industry. Gotta invest your money into your project to maximize the potential growth. Streaming is one aspect of the industry. Talent is another. What’s your take on the current state of Hip Hop Music vs the Hip Hop Culture? RB: Nowadays, Hip Hop Music is what the radio stations are making it to be, the same style  songs, and not enough talent being pushed to the public. I really don’t like what’s going on now, and it seems to be an agenda pushed behind it. Also, the underground market is “flaming up” on a good note. I like that role for authentic Hip Hop Music to be displayed within the CULTURE. Last, what’s the most impactful thing you want your fans to take away from your music career? RB: Everything is not glitz & glamour. There’s a lot of work and grind that needs to be put in behind the senes. Consistency is the key and you have to put the work in regardless if there’s support or not. Now #MYCreatives, I’ve listen to the track about 4 times, and it’s definitely a #ReemoApproved track, as well as honestly can’t wait to hear his upcoming album; “100 Bats”. On that note #MyCreatives, ON TO THE NEXT!!!! Follow Me on Social Media: Instagram: 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_ Subcribe To My Vlog Channel; Reemo Meerak: ReemTV: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzeBLMMZerckVQ9LJa93oZw For Interviews, Cover your event, write a review, or Features: [email protected] Shop The Merch: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com

Can “Rated R” be the next Superstars from Jersey?

Rated R is on the scene!!!! #MYCreatives what it dew, I’m back at it again with another #ReemoApproved Artists Spotlight, and of course had to reach out to Jersey’s own rising duo of Kiara and Jade which make; RATED R. Now if you follow “The Social Dw33b of Hip Hop” as of late since 2022 been covering artists from the Garden State, and shockingly been put under the “Burner” after the light was sparked by Fetty Wap, and many legends prior. Can the light and time within the industry shine bright for Rated R to take? I chopped it up with them to see do they have what it takes to make an impact in the culture!!!! Being a woman duo, how can you separate from the possible stigma being placed as a “City Girls” type of group? Rated R: I mean, the only thing they can compare when it comes to the City Girls is kind of the look. Other than that, we both do our own things and don’t step on each other’s toes. I bring the sweet she brings the heat. Right now I can’t think of any successful duos out who do opposite things and mix as well as we do.   Now, New Jersey has a heavy influence of talent involved in the music and entertainment industry. Do you feel the pressure of carrying on the legacy of your state, or its truly focusing on what Rated R has to offer? Rated R: If you want to make a diamond, you can’t do it without pressure. We’ve been saying for the longest that Jersey has a lot to offer. We don’t feel burdened by it we embrace it as we embody Jersey pride. We’re here to show the world what Rated R is all about. We from Big Jersey, The Grind Hard state. Women in the culture are heavily taken over and in a large number, what does that do for the group, as well as what would you want to let future young women coming into the game to understand? Rated R: Our motto is EMPOWERMENT. We want to inspire young women to embrace their authenticity in the way they see it. You just gotta worry about what it looks like to you. You can be who you are and be a fly boss. It’s crucial for the industry to shine a light on women because we have powerful stories to tell. IT’S WOMEN right now leading the conversation from music to presidential seats. We’re rarely in the conversations let’s continue to keep us apart of it.   On your music journey, how important is having a team to support you? Rated R: Having a team on your journey in this music industry can either make you or break you, but having the support of a great team can only make you better. A lot of people be trying to take advantage, and ownership of things that are not theirs. Gratefully our team is genuine and supportive of what we want to do. I think it’s necessary, especially for artist who are serious about the careers.   We’re in the 3rd Quarter of 2024, how will you close out 2024, and what’s in store for us in 2025 from Rated R? Rated R: We will definitely be outside for the rest of 2024, continuing to pop out. In 2025 expect music, exciting events, and plenty of engagement from us! We are excited for what we have planned for 2025.   How important is music production for you when making the music, and how selective are you when choosing the right producer to work with? Rated R: Music production is crucial in creating our music. If the sound and mix aren’t right, it just doesn’t feel right. We can’t move on to visuals or performances without truly feeling the mix. I don’t know how many times we listened to “Bad Guy” just to make sure it was exactly what we wanted to deliver to our fans. It honestly starts when selecting a producer, it’s all about the sound and vibe they bring to the table. Who influenced you the most when starting your music career? Kiara: Ella Mai has been a huge influence for me. I admired how she stayed true to herself throughout her career, focusing on the authenticity of her words and music. That’s the path I aspire to follow. Jada: When I started making my own music, Nicki Minaj was a huge influence. I was a super fan and loved the feminine energy she brought to the industry.   What’s the one thing you want to let your growing fan base know? Kiara: Remember that nothing in life comes easy. If you want something, you have to put in the hard work and hustle for it because no one else will do it for you. Jada: No dream is too big. If you believe it, you can certainly achieve it! All in all, I must say the duo is poise to make sure JERSEY is definitely on the map, as well as the industry will not forget their name….. “RATED R!!!!” On that note #MyCreatives, ON TO THE NEXT!!!! Follow Me on Social Media: Instagram: 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_ Subcribe To My Vlog Channel; Reemo Meerak: ReemTV: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzeBLMMZerckVQ9LJa93oZw For Interviews, Cover your event, write a review, or Features: [email protected] Shop The Merch: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com

#rewindreview: K-Rec, Checkmate & Moka Only ‘Inference And Hearsay’ EP 2024

  This is a Canadian takeover with Vancouver British Columbia’s Moka Only and Checkmate free flowing over a diverse amount of beats from K-Rec. ‘Inference And Hearsay’ is a fifteen minute EP of showing HOP music ages like fine wine. Moka Only still sounds as fresh as when one first heard him throughout his storied career. K-Rec provides some standout moments with this release like the infectious title track and a sort of “180” moment of the sounds you expect to here from the D.J./producer with ‘Way2Lit.’ I initially thought Checkmate was a newer act, yet I began to realize his name was associated with Canadian Hip-Hop but could not quite put my finger as to where. Then low and behold the track that most Americans became introduced to Canadian rap artist was ‘Northern Touch,’ a posse cut of acts from Canada that got some lengthy rotation on B.E.T.’s ‘Rap City.’ Checkmate was on that track and now this EP comes full circle (no pun). With the length of this release, one will not waste their time, but the initial two tracks are a personal favorite while the last three are a bit darker in tone. K-Rec gives the tracks added flavor with cuts and scratches making ‘Inference And Hearsay’ in “fact” a solid addition to an incredible year of HOP music from it’s veterans. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Love Keep pt.2’ & ‘Inference And Hearsay’ 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 (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @

Lola Brooke feat. Jeremih; “No One Else” Music Review

Ohhhhhhhhhhh, #MYCreatives the HOT STREAK CONTINUES for your Neighborhood #RugerSprayyyyyer and Social Dw33b of Hip Hop!!!! This time, I’m doing the latest review of Lola Brooke and Jeremih’s latest HOT TRACK!!!! Lola Brooke and Jeremih just dropped their new track called; “No One Else” and it’s the smooth blend of street and R&B vibes we didn’t know we needed. Lola, known for her gritty Brooklyn flow, does what she does best here — talk her talk, unapologetically. She’s got that confidence in her verses, spitting something soulful, and her “get the mood” right bars that show she’s not waiting on anyone to make her feel good. It’s all her, all day!!!! Jeremih, on the other hand, slides in with those signature silky vocals that we’ve come to love from him. His hook brings that sexy, late-night vibe, making the track perfect for a mix of chilling and vibing. The contrast between Lola’s hard-hitting, as well as soulful delivery and Jeremih’s smoothness is a win, creating this dope balance that keeps you coming back to the track. I had the opportunity to sit down with the Brooklyn Native, to really find out the scoop on the music video: Overall, “No One Else” is that joint you’ll have on repeat, whether you’re cruising through the city or just kicking back. Lola Brooke’s aggressive energy paired with Jeremih’s laid-back charm? Yeah, that’s a combo that works. Juuuuuuu’alreadyyyyy Know #MyCreatives, ON TO THE NEXT!!!!! Follow Me on Social Media: Instagram: 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_ Subcribe To My Vlog Channel; Reemo Meerak: ReemTV: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzeBLMMZerckVQ9LJa93oZw For Interviews, Cover your event, write a review, or Features: [email protected] Shop The Merch: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com

Hip Hop Caucus “Underwater Projects” Premiere — Art, Activism, and Climate Wake-Up Call – Movie Review

          The other night, I had the chance to catch the premiere of “Underwater Projects”, and let me just say — this isn’t your typical film. You know how some documentaries hit you in the gut and then linger in your mind long after? Yeah, that’s exactly what “Underwater Projects” does. It blends hip-hop culture, environmental justice, and the very real threat of climate change into one visually stunning, thought-provoking piece of art. The Hip Hop Caucus has a way of making activism feel accessible, and this film was no exception. It’s raw, authentic, and honest, diving into the disproportionate impact climate change has on communities of color, especially those along the coasts. The message is clear: rising sea levels and environmental disasters are here, and they’re hitting Black and brown communities first and hardest. But this isn’t just a doom-and-gloom documentary. Underwater Projects feels like a call to action — or more accurately, a shout. It’s driven by sharp visuals and a killer soundtrack that weaves together hip-hop beats with real, hard-hitting facts. The film features a range of artists, activists, and everyday people talking about their experiences, struggles, and hopes for a future where we can fight back against climate change. The blend of personal stories and large-scale issues creates a powerful emotional pull. Here are interviews with; Rev. Lennox Yearwood, Elizabeth Yeampirre, and the Director of the film; Liz Havstad: One standout moment? When the film zoomed in on New Orleans, post-Katrina earlier on to show the contrast. It was heartbreaking, but seeing how the community still comes together to rebuild, resist, and thrive was incredibly moving. You could feel the resilience and the fight in every frame. If you’re a fan of hip-hop culture, you’ll appreciate how it’s woven into the fabric of this film, not just as a soundtrack but as a form of resistance and a platform for change. It’s clear the Hip Hop Caucus knows exactly how to speak to their audience — and man, do they make a lasting impression. At the end of the day, “Underwater Projects” is more than a movie. It’s a wake-up call for those of us who aren’t paying attention, and a rallying cry for those already in the fight. Do yourself a favor — watch this film. It’s an eye-opener, a reminder, and a motivator all in one. Trust me, you’ll leave the theater ready to take action. As per usual, ON TO THE NEXT #MyCreatives 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_ Subcribe To My Vlog Channel; Reemo Meerak: ReemTV: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzeBLMMZerckVQ9LJa93oZw For Interviews, Cover your event, write a review, or Features: [email protected] Shop The Merch: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com

#rewindreview: Thonio & D.J. Kefran ‘In My Dreams’ EP 2023

  QUANTUM LEAP RADIO was new to this duo when we received a promo of ‘In My Dreams’ EP. Thonio, who is from Buffalo, New York and D.J. Kefran from Paris, France provide a short twenty-five minute release compatible to Spring and Summer seasons. On this release Thonio raps about relationships, be it with women, social circles or himself. Rhymes are not too complicated and although this would be an underground release, it fits a more mainstream rap music audience. Thonio’s influences seem to be that of Young Jeezy, Lupe Fiasco etc., while D.J. Kefran provides a more basic music palette that fits the style and content provided by Thonio. ‘In My Dreams’ might not have the appeal to the “super-rap” fan but could garner some spins at the neighborhood backyard barbeque or kickback event. 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 (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @

#rewindreview: Moka Only ‘In And Of Itself’ 2023

  The Canadian “Energizer Bunny” never stops even when one thinks he is over rap music. Moka Only has… a lot of albums and it seemed that during and post COVID, the Vancouver BC, M.C. might have slowed down production of music. In 2023 he popped up again with ‘In And Of Itself,’ which for those who have been fans of Moka Only for the past 25 years, got that signature sound and feel that compliments him and listener’s ears. Moka Only always finds that balance between vibes and head nodding sounds that seems to uplift the frequency within one’s self, if not for a moment of euphoria, that never seems to get old. This album’s consistency tracks with what Moka Only does for his projects where there are not many moments you might feel one part of the album is better than the other. Although ‘I Do Rap’ is one of those merry moments Moka Only traps listener’s with snares, drums and subtle sounds, while using his own voice as an instrument to make one rewind the track multiple times. ‘In And Of Itself’ can be added to the pantheon of “Moke’s” albums but it really is a standout release among his latter chapter of projects. 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 (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @

#rewindreview: Example ‘impulses’ EP 1997

  When talking about Hip-hop in Houston certain names will always come up by default. Those names are just one side of what the great city has to offer though. For those like myself who grew up in the 1990’s surrounded by a certain sound from the city it was a surprise and proud moment to hear Example when listening to a local college radio show in Houston. ‘Slow Motion’ sounded like anything one would expect to hear on a college radio show back then but the difference was this song mentioning certain places in Houston. In 1997 this was rare to my ears and made me look into who this was. Kay, who went by “Dekay” at the time and D.J. Cipher made for this group Example, that seemed like they were speaking for that part of me that didn’t have a loud enough voice at the time. The music was what I wanted to hear, the content was relatable and for a younger me in my last couple of years in high school, there was a sense of the music not taking itself so serious but still having a positive frequency to it. For almost half a decade I didn’t hear this full release but when I did hear it, realized I actually heard all the tracks just in different spaces. This took nothing away from experiencing the eight track EP and simply made me appreciate the idea of being dedicated to releasing HOP music like this, as a physical medium, in a market not designed for the music provided. This really is a stepping stone for Kay as one can see how his rapping and production abilities have advanced over the years but nothing to look back at and be ashamed of. It’s more likely the reason ‘impulses’ has been re-released in the last couple of years, as for it to not be forgotten and display how a critical part to Houston Hip-Hop has evolved over the years for a particular generation. 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 (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @

#rewindreview: Roc Nation Presents ‘Humble Soles’ 2023

  The lineage of what started from Jay-Z’s ‘Reasonable Doubt’ is still trying to branch out, regardless of the controversy, member changes and time itself. Roc Nation which has been a management avenue since the break up of Roc-A-Fella Records in the 2000’s, has had some great success but going into the 2020’s there’s a need for “new crop.” In 2023 Emory Jones who has been a long time collaborator and friend with Jay-Z, appeared on The Breakfast Club to talk about a project that would serve as way to introduce the newer acts under the Roc Nation flag. This would be described as a sort of “mixtape” which is hosted by D.J. Clue and in collaboration with Puma sneakers. For listeners that can appreciate or grew up on the sounds of HOP music in the 2000’s this compilation release will be a lot easier to digest, as much of the music is derivative of that time with added basslines and hi-hats to match current sounds. ‘Humble Soles’ vehemently provides exposure to a new crop of rappers not known to the public but have made names for themselves among a younger crowd like Kalen frfr and KenTheMan, while heavily spotlighting Huey V, RJAE and Tyre Hakim. Some familiar names provide grounding for this release like Vic Mensa, Rueben Vincent and Rapsody. I personally appreciated this release providing some insight to newer acts and their sounds but the “voice is an instrument” and many of the new acts on this release don’t possess a unique instrument yet. The music is standard for this time so maybe younger ears might look to this project over the years to come as their ‘Lyricist Lounge.’ or ‘Soundbombing,’ but those releases seem to connect with listeners due to the rarity of voices and ideas not just lyrical ability. If ever there was a time to find out if the new generation can rap, look to ‘Humble Soles’ for a few answers that might get the luxury of longevity in HOP music. What did you think of the album? Singles include: ‘Tale Of 2 Legends,’ ‘Vic Chops,’ ‘Outsiders,’ ‘Cypher,’ ‘Derek Jeter’ & ‘Love Answers All’ 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 (under “kpft in HD2”) Catch past episodes by searching and following @

Directorial Debut of Angie Martinez’s God’s Favorite DJ: DJ Clark Kent Preview

God’s Favorite DJ: DJ Clark Kent Preview; Directorial Debut of Angie Martinez Angie Martinez Drops Her First Doc: “God’s Favorite DJ” Angie Martinez, the Lady OG of Media aka “Voice of New York!!!” is leveling up from the airwaves to the director’s chair with her debut documentary, God’s Favorite DJ. If you’ve been rocking with Angie, you already know she’s been deep in the game for years. Now, she’s putting the spotlight on a real legend: DJ Clark Kent. DJ Clark Kent: The Architect of Hip-Hop “God’s Favorite DJ” isn’t just another flick — it’s a tribute to one of the most important kats in hip-hop history. DJ Clark Kent isn’t just a DJ; he’s the dude who helped build the sound of an era. From putting Jay-Z on the map to producing straight fire for Biggie and Mariah, Kent’s been making moves behind the scenes for decades. This doc is gonna break down why DJ Clark Kent is a name everyone respects. Angie Martinez: Storyteller Turned Director Angie’s been the go-to for hip-hop’s biggest names, getting them to spill the real on the mic. Now, she’s flipping the script and taking her storytelling to the screen. With “God’s Favorite DJ”, Angie’s not just telling a story — she’s documenting the culture, the history, and the man who played a major role in it all. What’s the Documentary going to be about? This isn’t just a “get to know” piece — it’s a ride through hip-hop’s evolution, all through the eyes of DJ Clark Kent. Expect rare clips, untold stories, and appearances from the heavy hitters who owe a lot to Kent. This one’s for the real heads who appreciate the roots of the culture. World-class DJ and producer takes us through his four-decade journey in Hip-Hop, influencing icons like Jay-Z, Notorious B.I.G., and Lil Kim, while leaving an indelible mark on pop culture through his music and fashion collaborations. Courtesy of the Director debut of world known Media , and Radio Hall of Fame Figure; Angie Martinez. Why You Gotta See It? If hip-hop runs through your veins, or if you just vibe with a real story, God’s Favorite DJ is a must-watch. Angie’s keeping it raw and real, making sure the culture gets the shine it deserves. The doc’s dropping later this year, and you already know it’s gonna be something special. Don’t sleep on it. As per usual #MyCreatives, ON TO THE NEXT!!!! Follow Me on Social Media: InstaGram:  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_ Subcribe To My Vlog Channel; Reemo Meerak: ReemTV:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzeBLMMZerckVQ9LJa93oZw For Interviews, Cover your event, write a review, or Features:[email protected] Shop The Merch:https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com

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