Harlemite and Hip-Hop Veteran G Dep Performs New Album “Lessons Never Losses,” at I9ine Bistro in the South Bronx

(Photos by @Rawnyc) On Friday, February 28th, Harlem-born hip-hop artist and veteran G Dep performed his new album, Lessons Never Losses, at I9ine Bistro in the South Bronx. This marks G Dep’s first album since being released from prison, where he served 14 years of a 15-year sentence for a robbery that tragically resulted in the death of John Henkel who was shot in chest in 1993. G Dep, whose real name is Trevell Coleman, turned himself in for the crime in 2010, seeking to clear his conscience. In 2024, he was granted clemency by New York State Governor Kathy Hochul, allowing him to return to society and his music career earlier than expected. The listening party for Lessons Never Losses was a celebratory event, attended by a mix of influencers, family, friends, and longtime supporters. G Dep, also known as “The Deputy,” performed the entire album live, showcasing his resilience and growth as an artist and individual. The album’s intro, “Exodus,” sets the tone for the project, focusing on overcoming obstacles and embracing a brighter future. This theme of redemption and personal evolution resonates throughout the album. Some standout tracks include: “How Can I”: A soulful track that samples Lisa Fischer’s 1991 classic “How Can I Ease the Pain,” G Dep reimagines the song to convey how he provides comfort despite his own sorrow and struggles. “That’s the Old Me”: A reflective and catchy tune where G Dep sings on the hook, emphasizing his personal growth and transformation. “Highly Motivated”: A track that highlights his faith and determination, produced by G Dep himself. “Put That on a Shirt” : A creative and entrepreneurial anthem where he shares his hard-earned wisdom and lessons through merchandise-inspired lyrics. The album’s production is cohesive featuring contributions from various producers. Despite being incarcerated for over a decade, G Dep’s cadence, and delivery remain sharp. The event was a triumph, with attendees getting an exclusive first listen to the album before its official release on all major streaming platforms on March 4th. G Dep’s gratitude and faith were palpable as he raised a glass of champagne to celebrate the occasion, embodying the lessons he’s learned through his losses. As he often says, “Praise the Creator,” a testament to his spiritual journey and newfound freedom. Lessons Never Losses is another special delivery for G Dep.      G Dep performing music off his album Lessons Never Losses.  ( Photos by @Rawnyc).  

“Crash The Industry”: Hip-Hop Show Spotlighting Legends and Rising Stars

Mr. CEO, Shanti Mann interviewing  acclaimed producer Amadeaus on ” Crash the Industry.”   “Crash The Industry,” the innovative hip-hop series created by Shanti Mann (aka Mr. CEO) and executive produced by his wife, Queen Nat, is making waves in the entertainment world. Filmed at BronxNet’s state-of-the-art studios in the heart of the Bronx—the birthplace of hip-hop—the show offers a unique blend of inspiration, education, and entertainment by spotlighting the journeys of both established icons and rising stars. The series delves into the behind-the-scenes stories of individuals who have “crashed” their way to success across various industries, from music and fashion to entrepreneurship and politics. By featuring a diverse range of guests, including record executives, politicians, rappers, singers, and designers, “Crash The Industry” provides a platform for voices that might otherwise go unheard. A standout feature of the show is its “Pass the Torch” segment, where seasoned professionals mentor emerging talent, creating powerful moments of wisdom and opportunity. This segment underscores the show’s mission to bridge the gap between legends and the next generation of stars. Since its debut, “Crash The Industry” has already hosted an impressive roster of guests. Legendary Bronx-born producer Amadeus, known for his work with J.Lo and French Montana, shared his insights, while Kim Osorio, Executive Producer of “Love & Hip Hop” and “Black Ink Crew,” offered her expertise. Hip-hop heavyweight Agallah The Don also made an appearance with his rising protege M. Tundra.   The next wave of  artists like Maury Haze, Nay Blanco, TDI Musik, and Keen Streetz, who is signed to Jim Jones’ Vamp Life Records have also made appearances.  The show’s dynamic format keeps audiences engaged with live performances, fashion shows, comedy stand-ups, and deep dives into industry trends. Aspiring artists, entrepreneurs, and creatives are encouraged to submit their bios and performance-ready tracks (clean versions, MP3/MP4) to crashtheindustrytv@gmail.com for a chance to be featured. For exclusive behind-the-scenes content, follow “Crash The Industry” on Instagram (@crashtheindustry_tv) and YouTube (Crash The Industry TV). Tune in every Saturday at 6:30 PM on www.Bronxnet.org to catch the latest episodes and witness the fusion of hip-hop culture, mentorship, and innovation.        

NEMS Levels Up to a Higher Plateau with his album America’s Sweetheart

At first NEMS is challenging to figure out. At one end he is joking on folks on his Instagram posts, and spitting menacing disrespectful bars, as he yells “Fuck Your Life.” But the more you hear his music, you notice there is teddy bear quality to him. As he expresses his vulnerabilities, such as the pain of the death of his father due to AIDS on “Keep on, “on his last album Rise of the Silverback. And the murder of his two cousins on the track “Cousins,” on his 2021 release Congo. You get different layers from him; sensitivity, intelligence, pain, and humor.  His latest album “Americas Sweetheart” which was cleverly marketed and dropped on Valentine’s Day is fitting. As on the album cover, he is smiling but also delivering two middle fingers. The great sarcastic contrast. It is like a Larry David episode, you do not know what he has gotten in store next. Some might confuse Nems as a childish antagonist, but he is difficult not to love. His talent and respect for the craft of hip hop is undeniable. He makes you want to root for him. And root they do on the lead single “Go Fat Boy,” which is an underdog head nodding anthem. The production is solid throughout, serving as a  proper backdrop for his calculated lyrics. Tracks like “CTE, “is bar heavy, and “My Side,” featuring Millyz out of Boston is catchy as the chorus steals the show.  While “Gunther,” is a hilarious toxic exchange with a woman who has gotten to his very last nerve, as he showers her with the opposite of compliments.  And “Coney Island Part 1 or 2,” is dedicated to his neighborhood, which is known for its amusement park, beach, and history of professional basketball players.  “God’s Hands,” has him reflecting on his hurdles and thanking his blessings,  while “Afuera,” is a heat rock with Tony Touch as they exchange urban slang expressions in Spanish and will be a warm weather anthem and played heavy at the New York City Puerto Rican parade. The closing track “Viral,” shows a focused Nems emphasizing his goals, as he avoids any pitfalls or distractions on his way to higher plateaus.   On America’s Sweetheart NEMS continues to level up, as Coney Island’s Mayor is expanding his grasp through America and Beyond. But there is nothing sweet about his barz, Go Fat Boy! 

Reunited: Snoop Dogg’s  “Missionary,” Album Review

Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre will forever be figuratively attached to the hip. The success of Dre’s epic 1992 LP(Long Play), The Chronic, showcased the then-young Snoop’s distinct and stylish flow, with stand out verses on “Nuthin’ But A “G” Thang,” and “F*ck Wit Dre Day.” The following year, Snoop’s debut Doggystyle helped solidify the West Coast’s emergence on the national hip-hop scene. Over 30 years later, Snoop’s Missionary LP,  is the closest fans will get to Dre’s signature stadium sound on an entire album. While this LP does not have the mystique of the long-anticipated and unreleased Detox, and has its moments of braggadocios commercialism, overall it’s sonically pleasing, and experiments with various genres while keeping Snoop’s signature sound intact. The thumping “Outta Da Blue” highlights Snoop and Dre exchanging bars over invigorating production. On “Hard Knocks,” Snoop describes his penchant for defying the odds and overcoming hurdles to reach the finish line and remain in the winner’s circle. The Tom Petty and Jelly Roll-assisted “Last Dance with Mary Jane,” presents a refreshing merger of country and hip-hop. While this might not be what hip-hop purists expected, it’s a delightful fusion. And “Another Part of Me,” featuring British rock star Sting, is a feel-good track that makes you appreciate the present, especially with Sting’s lyrics, “There’s no better time than today.”   Snoop and Dre together on an album is exactly what fans wanted and what hip-hop needed. It shows that some brotherly bonds are unbreakable, and the people you started your career with will always have an influence on you. If you’re fortunate enough, you can come back years later with a more worldly and mature perspective and do it all over again. The album title is a clever play on words, as Missionary refers to both a sexual position (a nod to Snoop’s Doggystyle) and the idea of a missionary—a charitable hero, whose mission is accomplished. And there you have it—mission accomplished, fellas! In a world of ever-changing sounds, Missionary reminds us that some musical bonds are timeless, and Dre and Snoop are still at the top of their game.   Words By David Lopez

Can Glorilla’s new album; “Glorious” draw Hip Hop Album Of The Year honors in 2025?

#MyCreatives what it dew…. Once again, Hip Hop Music in 2024 has really taken it this far with the jammed packed filled of multi-talented music with a mixture of current, and veteran artists really bringing the pain with quality, and well produced music for listeners. Now, we have one of the more known Hip Hop stars entering the mix with; Glorilla. Already with historical first week sale numbers, and popularity like no other. One or many will start coming to terms that “Glorious” could be stamped for high honors and awards in 2025. Make no mistake about it, Glorilla’s unique style, and tone makes her music not only relatable, but even a non-fan will have no choice to “bop” to her music. Her personality is a compliment to her already talented, as well as determination approach of being one the best in the industry and it shows heavily. Glorilla has some heavy competition in Hip Hop Music for her album to be crowned “Best Female Hip Hop Album Of The Year”. From Rapsody’s “Please Don’t Cry”, Nicki Minaj’s “Pink Friday 2″, Doechii‘s Alligator Bites Never Heal, Doja Cat‘s Scarlet 2 (Claude), Latto‘s Sugar Honey Iced Tea, Megan Thee Stallion‘s Megan, Sexyy Red‘s In Sexyy We Trust, Tierra Wack; “World Wide Wack”, that come to mind for me when it comes into 2025 possible selections for honors and awards. Now we know, and have come to terms that the Recording Academy sees things differently. For me, as a media figure, contributor, and fan of the culture this year has been one of the most fun-filled, and enjoyable displays of music within the culture. The parity is displayed heavily, as well as the contrast between the current younger generation talent, and the veteran artists is not a large gap by any means. The production quality amongst the albums are highly impressive and notable, as well as going into Grammy & American Music Awards season has never been this intense in a while. Don’t take my word for it, or feel I’m against Glorilla (I have no win in that race, or feel she is not talented). YES, I feel her latest album is a quality, and very diverse album. Definitely amongst the middle of the album where she goes deep with a few tracks, as well as the features with Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, Chandler Moore, Muni Long, FRIDAYY, and T-Pain along with getting a Megan Thee Stallion feature shows that she wanted this project to be different than what she has already presented with her music. My Favorite Tracks: Procedure Featuring Latto TGIF Stop Playing Rain Down On Me feat Kirk Franklin, Maverick City Music, Kierra Sheard, and Chandler Moore Glo’s Prayer How I Look Featuring Megan Thee Stallion Let Her Cook (Grew on Me, but is still a “Вор”) I LUV Her Featuring T-Pain (Interesting) Queen Of Memphis Featuring Fridayy (A Solid track to close out) I will say, if she’s able to be victorious with “Glorious” in 2025 and receive multiple honors and awards, then for sure she will be cemented on the path of Greatness, and in a quick succession rate like no other. 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_ Subscribe To My Vlog Channel; Reemo Meerak: ReemTV: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzeBLMMZerckVQ9LJa93oZw For Interviews, Cover your event, write a review, or Features: ReemoMeerak1@reemomeerakbrand.com Shop The Merch: https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com

The Consequences of Meeting Rapper Consequence

Me and Consequence the day we recorded “Hip Hop Unpacked,” podcast. Damien DWI Williams,  Caiden the Crown Holder, and Consequence May, 2023 at listening party for earlier version of Nice Doing Business With You. I attended a listening party in May 2023 for Consequence’s studio album “Nice Doing Business With You,” at Platinum Sound Recording Studios in New York City. It was a fan’s, writer’s, and media coordinator’s delight. Here I was, getting an early listen to the album from one of the premier songwriters of our time — someone who has worked with Kanye West, Beyoncé, and a member of arguably the greatest hip-hop group of all time, A Tribe Called Quest. I took a liking to the album, with heat rocks including the Amerie-assisted “Blood Stain,” and a witty track that spoke to the difficulty of co-parenting with Sheek Louch, “Baby Moms.” He also provided social justice content on tracks like “Who Shot Jamal,” with his son Caiden the Crown Holder, which describes the impact of gun violence in inner-city communities, and a feature from Chuck D on “What Has America Done for Me?” which dives into effects of slavery and the history of racial oppression in the United States. The album felt necessary. It’s hip hop — entertaining, but also filled with commentary that challenges the status quo and moves the conversation toward change. You can imagine the joy I felt on Friday, September 27th, 2024, the day the actual album dropped — a whole year and four months after that listening party in New York City. I was hyped, finally going to listen to the official album from one of NYC’s elite emcees, an artist I had sung along to as a teenager on his epic standout appearance on “Stressed Out” off ATCQ’s “Beats, Rhymes, and Life,” album. This excitement turned into disappointment when several of the songs I heard weren’t on the album. I felt cheated. Hearing the album, which on first listen felt more R&Bish than the version I heard with several singing choruses gave me more New Edition vibes than Hip Hop, and had me confused. I shared this confusion with a well-respected media friend, and he shared that with Consequence. It was relayed to me that the Queens rapper respected my thoughts about the missing songs and that a deluxe version was actually coming out in a few weeks with some of the tracks I heard at listening party. He connected me to the rapper and  Consequence himself wanted to personally show me the video for the track with Chuck D, “What Has America Done for Me,” which will be included in the deluxe version of “Nice Doing Business With You.” And this is how I set up my first podcast interview ever with the illustrious Consequence. I asked my good friend Damien “DWI” Williams, to co-host, he is known as the pioneer of podcast production in hip-hop circles in New York City, and he provided his studio to watch the “What Has America Done for Me” video and interview Consequence. It had been a while since I interviewed anyone in person, and it was my first time having it recorded. I was a little nervous. I’m good at preparing questions and passionate about writing and booking artists for other radio shows, but I was not sure how I’d do on a podcast. I came up with the name of the pod the day before we recorded, “Hip Hop Unpacked,” because I wanted to create a podcast in which I delved deeper into the root and inspiration for creating hip-hop. Consequence showed up to the pod, and we were ready to rock. We spoke briefly, and I asked why the album took so long to be released, considering I had heard a version of the album in May 2023. He explained that he was taking his time to get the right distribution for the album. My follow-up question was, “What happened to all the other songs I heard at that listening party that didn’t make the album?” He said he would be releasing the deluxe album within a few weeks, with songs like “Who Shot Jamal” and “What Has America Done for Me.” Then he showed me the video for that song featuring Chuck D. The video is moving — an exposé of the atrocities and inhumane treatment given by the United States power structure to African Americans. We spoke with Consequence for an about an hour about different topics including the health scare he endured with lupus and diabetes, and how he had to change his diet which altered his outlook on life. He even selected an album cover to show him in a successful, celebratory state in a Maybach, wearing a Rolex, to show him living life fully when just a few years ago he was concerned about surviving. I quickly learned how passionate he is about his art. He recited his lyrics when explaining the meaning of songs like “Overdose.” On the track that features YNW Melly, you can hear the pain he lived through during the 80’s crack era. The album is full of mature content that makes you think about the effects of drug abuse, mass incarceration, and relationship struggles. I’m happy to see Cons get this moment. He has always been hungry and talented, but on this new album, he finally gets to shine as a solo artist as he and his son are the only ones who rap on the entire album. During the podcast interview, we spoke about how much his cousin Q-Tip liked the project, and how he had a full-circle moment — close to 30 years in the music business, and getting praise from his cousin was like Coach K awarding him the championship. After better understanding the challenges he’s overcome, and discussing his growth as an artist and human being, Cons is hard to root against. He’s tackled life, music industry hurdles, and is still competing for his proper place in the hip-hop pantheon. And next up for him is

10 Iconic Tracks That Showcase Fatman Scoop’s Signature Hype

Fatman Scoop, known for his booming voice and energetic style, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. He’s contributed to many chart-topping hits across different genres, particularly in hip-hop and R&B. Here’s a look at some of the iconic tracks that feature his signature hype: 1. “Be Faithful” – Fatman Scoop featuring The Crooklyn Clan (1999) This track is arguably Fatman Scoop’s most well-known hit. It features a catchy blend of hip-hop beats and infectious chants, sampling Faith Evans’ “Love Like This.” “Be Faithful” became an anthem in clubs around the world and topped charts in the UK and Ireland. 2. “Lose Control” – Missy Elliott featuring Ciara and Fatman Scoop (2005) Teaming up with Missy Elliott and Ciara, Fatman Scoop brought his high-energy vocals to “Lose Control.” This song, with its danceable beat and memorable chorus, became a massive hit, earning a Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video. 3. “It Takes Scoop” – Fatman Scoop and DJ Felli Fel (2005) Sampling the iconic 1988 track “It Takes Two” by Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock, this collaboration with DJ Felli Fel showcases Fatman Scoop’s ability to revive classic hits with a fresh twist. His energetic vocals breathed new life into this beloved song. 4. “Put Your Hands Up” – Fatman Scoop featuring Crooklyn Clan (2004) Another party anthem, “Put Your Hands Up” is characterized by its call-and-response style, which Fatman Scoop excels at. The track became popular in clubs and was often used as a hype track at events and sports games. 5. “Drop” – Timbaland featuring Magoo and Fatman Scoop (2001) This collaboration with Timbaland and Magoo features Fatman Scoop’s energetic ad-libs and shout-outs, which perfectly complement Timbaland’s signature production style. “Drop” is a testament to Fatman Scoop’s versatility and ability to adapt to different musical styles. 6. “It’s Like That” – Mariah Carey featuring Fatman Scoop (2005) While not as prominently featured as in other tracks, Fatman Scoop’s voice adds an extra layer of hype to Mariah Carey’s “It’s Like That.” His contribution helped the song become a staple at parties and a hit on the Billboard charts. 7. “So Excited” (Remix) – Janet Jackson featuring Fatman Scoop, Fabolous, Khia, and JD (2006) On the remix of Janet Jackson’s “So Excited,” Fatman Scoop’s energetic ad-libs added a vibrant layer to the track, blending seamlessly with Janet’s sultry vocals. His hyped-up style perfectly complemented the song’s playful, upbeat vibe, making it a standout remix. 8. “Beyonce Before I Let You Go Remix” – (Official) Fatman Scoop/DJ Kazzanova (2019) In this remix of Beyoncé’s “Before I Let Go,” Fatman Scoop teams up with DJ Kazzanova to bring his signature hype and energy. His powerful chants and commands elevate the track, making it a popular choice for dance floors and celebrations. 9. “It’s Your Birthday (CN Remix)” – Fatman Scoop featuring Pitbull In “It’s Your Birthday (CN Remix),” Fatman Scoop collaborates with Pitbull to deliver a high-energy birthday anthem. With his trademark chants and a danceable beat, this track quickly became a favorite at parties and clubs, celebrating life and good times. 10. “(Official) Gangnam Style Remix NYE 2013” – Ft. Fatman Scoop Fatman Scoop brought his unique energy to the global phenomenon “Gangnam Style” with the NYE 2013 remix. His hyped-up vocals and crowd-commanding style added an extra layer of excitement to Psy’s hit, making it a perfect anthem for New Year’s Eve celebrations. Fatman Scoop’s unique ability to hype up a track and get people on their feet has made him a staple in the music industry. These hits not only showcase his vocal talent but also his impact on the world of hip-hop and beyond. His presence will be greatly missed, but his legacy will continue to live on through the music he helped create. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his remarkable talent.     Britney Cherry is a multimedia journalist, personality, producer, and radio host based in Chicago. She is the host of “The Social Media Rewind” on 104.3 Jams Chicago and serves as a media host for Digiwaxx. With a passion for storytelling and connecting with audiences, Britney covers a wide range of topics from entertainment to lifestyle, bringing her unique perspective and energy to every story.

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:ReemoMeerakBrand.info@gmail.com Shop The Merch:https://reemomeerakbrand.myshopify.com

“Music at the Height of Social Media: What Do We Stand to Gain and Lose?”

Music in The Past I remember years ago when I was first introduced to Khia, the Philadelphia-born rapper with a lot to say about sex, clubbing, and independence. No matter how I felt about the content of the lyrics, it didn’t matter, I was 20 and the song had a catchy hook that reminded me I was young and carefree. In 2024 now a woman in her 30’s of course my outlook on music has changed but so has everything about the music landscape. Why do we not give grace to the 20-year-olds of today who enjoy music from Ice Spice, Sexxy Red, Glorillia, lotto, and Meg the Stallion? Have we become so cynical that we forget about artists like Lil Kim, Foxxy Brown, Khia, Adina Howard, and many others whose music was sexually charged and liberating to women in the culture? What about the new school that’s not the same? Has the Ratchet sound become too dominating over all other types of music? And has social media influenced us to not care about album sales and only about the personality and relatability of the artist? What About Album Sales? Let’s dive into some numbers and a bit of history. In 1996, Lil’ Kim released her debut album, “Hard Core,” which sold over 5 million copies worldwide and earned a double platinum certification from the RIAA when she was just 22 years old. In contrast, Ice Spice, at a similar age, sold around 28,000 units with her debut album, “Y2K!” Social media has had a profound impact on album sales, how music is marketed, consumed, and perceived. One major change is that artists who take advantage of social media now have access to global audiences with a single swipe. Artists can promote their music directly to millions of fans, so why are album sales so low? In theory shouldn’t it be higher? While physical sales have decreased, digital sales have skyrocketed replacing the need for physical copies. Without the help of social media Lil Kim sold 5 million physical copies with her debut album, yet Ice Spice streamed 90 million in digital streams through DSPs like Spotify. It’s impossible to know how many streams Lil Kim would have racked up for her debut album, but something should be said about the hard work required to sell 5 million physical copies. What’s Changed? Social media has drastically transformed the way we consume music in several keyways. Social media has brought changes that would have been unimaginable decades ago. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter have made discovering new music quicker and more effortless than ever before. Artist can share snippets of their latest tracks, which can go viral within hours. TikTok has become especially influential with many songs gaining massive popularity thanks to user-generated videos and dance challenges. Ice Spice for example gained her fame from posting a TikTok video to the “Buss it” Challenge in 2021 that went viral, she used her newfound internet fame to launch her SoundCloud song “Bully” and that fostered her deal with Capitol Records. Lil Kim’s career began after meeting Notorious B.I.G on a street corner where she performed an impromptu rap. No followers, no frills just a talented artist at the right place and right time. Direct connection with the artist is one of the most significant changes brought by social media. Back in 1996, unless you were invited into spaces that allowed you to have a more personal experience with the artist, there was no way to know what the artist did behind the scenes. Through platforms like Instagram Live or Twitter Spaces, we can feel way more connected to the artist without having to purchase anything or attend live events. Next, we must discuss Streaming and Playlists with the integration of social media. This transformation has made it so easy to hear new music, download it, share it with friends, and even use it to create your social media content. We all discover new music without really having to invest time in searching for it. Has this impacted our level of excitement for new music even from our favorite artist? Before social media there was so much anticipation for that latest single or album from an artist. With the music industry being so concentrated with new music on our algorithms, it’s hard to tell what new music we should be excited about. The Pros and Cons Although music has changed, we still have a lot to gain from utilizing social media like increased accessibility and exposure to global audiences, direct artist-fan interaction, viral marking opportunities and campaigns, real-time feedback on projects, and collaboration opportunities. On the flip side, there are downsides to music streaming and the social media influence, like short attention spans, the decline of album culture, buying physical albums and owning  intellectual property, the pressure artists are under to constantly produce content, and the authenticity of the artist, when everything is for the approval of social media how do we know when we are getting the real version of the artists or some sort of manufactured industry pleaser? Social media has undeniably changed the scope of the music industry offering many benefits but also presenting challenges that can impact artistic integrity and the traditional music experience that we have grown up with. There is a balance that can be reached, so let’s give grace to the new artist and the seasoned professionals attempting to navigate these unpredictable times. Sources: Lil’ Kim: Biography, Rapper, Musician Ice Spice Reacts To Her Debut Album ‘Y2K!’ Sales (rap-up.com) TikTok has changed music — and the industry is hustling to catch up : NPR Britney Cherry is a multimedia journalist, personality, producer, and radio host based in Chicago. She is the host of “The Social Media Rewind” on 104.3 Jams Chicago and serves as a media host for Digiwaxx. With a passion for storytelling and connecting with audiences, Britney covers a wide range of topics from entertainment to lifestyle, bringing her unique perspective and

The Impact Kendrick’s “Not Like Us,” has had on Pop Culture

Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us,” and its references have appeared in TikTok dances for middle school proms, marching bands, and even utilized  by a weatherman. The  hysteria has consumed popular culture, creating a line in the sand on what’s authentic and what’s disingenuous . With Kendrick’s “The Pop Out,” concert in Los Angeles on Juneteenth, the entire West came out to support and give resistance to Drake’s claim that he got more love than K. Dot in his own city. When Doctor Dre whispered “ I see Dead People,” over the DJ Mustard produced hit, and NBA Basketball star Russell Westbrook and YG danced all over the “ Not Like Us,” set which he performed five times for good measure. Hip-Hop fans understood we were witnessing Drake’s public crucifixion and funeral. In an article I published on May 5th for Diggiwaxx,https://digiwaxx.com/drake-vs-kendrick-whos-ahead-on-the-score-card/ I had this mega battle with Drake and Kendrick Lamar being close. At the time I had Drake’s “Family Matters,” as the best song in the combat exchange. And though I knew K. Dot came on strong with four songs in one week. I felt like Drake won points for seeming more truthful. Kendrick’s accusation of Drake having a daughter and being a pedophile had no supporting evidence and I felt at the time it came across as a desperate attempt to defame Drake. My article  did not age as well as I anticipated.   The  public and internet declared  Kendrick as the decisive winner. The impact of “Not Like Us,” changed everything for Drake and the outcome of this battle. So the question is what is it about “Not Like Us” that made it such an anthem and viral sensation? Here are 10 reasons I mustered up, get it ( DJ Mustard). Ha Ha, I crack myself up sometimes, lol.  DJ Mustard gifted Kendrick a taunting piano chord that was the perfect backdrop for Kendrick’s expose of Drake’s fraudulent ways.  Kendrick picked Drake apart by highlighting his close proximity to Atlanta rappers for cultural acceptance, even going so far to call him a “colonizer.” The “Ov Ho”side to side dance is hilarious. The clever connections to Karl Malone, Tekashi 69, and Bill Cosby all either guilty or accused of inappropriate sexual assaults on women is genius. The line about beating Drake and hiding the Bible if God was watching has shock value that only elite emcees can bring to the table . He lived up to certified boogeyman mystique, Kendrick is not one to play with. “Not like Us, “becomes an anthem, at a perfect time while people are outside, the summer. It felt like we got more music from K. dot in a week than we got all of 2024. Just when Drake was looking like Thanos, K.Dot not only stole his thunder he sent him to Hip- Hop exile for the foreseeable future. K. Dot utilized the diss moment at ” The Pop Out” to unite the West Coast gangs in a sign of celebration and  unity. It feels good to finally admit my wrongs, and to see what the majority saw quite early on. Kendrick  created a significant hip hop moment, highlighting Drake for clout chasing artists when beneficial, and unified what seems like the entire world in ensuring the rapper who created the song “God’s Plan,” was instead destined to be exposed as a “liar.” Drake is as quiet as a church mouse these days with music right now, let’s see if he can reincarnate out of the  pet cemetery Kendrick Lamar buried the For All The Dogs  pop Star in.   By David Lopez Follow on Instagram @DLopez_718

WP Twitter Auto Publish Powered By : XYZScripts.com