Uproxx Music 20: Elmiene Is A Simple Man Learning To Appreciate The Past So He Can Thrive In The Future

Elmiene 'Uproxx Music 20' interview
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Elmiene (pronounced el-mean) is just a few months removed from completing the biggest year of his music career. In 2023, the 22-year-old British singer released two EPs, El-Mean in March and Marking My Time in October, before setting out on the road for a North American tour with stops in major cities like Toronto, New York City, and Los Angeles. In between all of that, Elmiene made his live performance debut beside Robert Glasper and Yasiin Bey for Louis Vuitton in Paris, made his debut at England’s legendary Glastonbury Festival, and collaborated with stars like Stormzy.

With all of that in mind, you can understand the concept behind Marking My Time. It was a moment for Elmiene to acknowledge and absorb his surroundings all before the whirlwind of building a successful music career yanked him away into a new reality. “When my life started speeding up massively,” he said after releasing the EP, “I had to learn how to keep an eye on both sides — appreciating the past in order to do the future the right way and do it justice.” And that future is looking extremely bright for Elmiene.

The British singer launched his 2024 campaign with his new single “Crystal Tears.” The record exquisitely grapples with loss, whether it be through death or the end of a relationship, and the regrets that follow their departure. Elmiene’s grief and pain seep through the 2000s R&B-inspired production as he pleads for a second chance, one that deep down he knows he’ll never get. With that, Elmiene is left to accept the new reality, something he captures with a pair of lines that show the strength of his pen. “Afraid to hold the glass I know I’ve broken,” he croons. “Take back all the notes I know I’ve chosen.”

Ahead of another tour that begins on April 4, Elmiene took a moment to speak with Uproxx to share his inspirations, interests in and outside of music, and how he hopes to be remembered.

See Previous UPROXX MUSIC 20 Interviews:

What is your earliest memory of music?

Listening to “7 Days” by Craig David on my cousin’s old music hard drive.

Who inspired you to take music seriously?

D’Angelo was definitely the first person that made me start listening to music more intently and seriously.

Do you know how to play an instrument? If so, which one? If not, which instrument do you want to learn how to play?

I’ve recently started to learn the keyboard and I’m completely obsessed, forever chasing Stevie Wonder.

What was your first job?

Making car breaks in a factory in Frankfurt. Old dark days.

What is your most prized possession?

The hundreds of voice notes on my phone of me working on music. I genuinely have nightmares of accidentally deleting them.

What is your biggest fear?

Being alone.

Who is on your R&B/rap/afrobeats Mt. Rushmore?

Joe, K-Ci from Jodeci, Dino from H-Town, and Usher.

You get 24 hours to yourself to do anything you want, with unlimited resources: What are you doing? And spare no details!

I would hunt monsters on Monster Hunter for 6 hours with breakfast then play keys for lunch at a restaurant that has a piano. Drink freeway peach ice tea by the river. Go home and play Street Fighter 6 ’til the end of the day for dinner.

What are your three most used emojis?

🧞🤖❤.

What’s a feature you need to secure before you die?

D’Angelo.

If you could appear in a future season of a current TV show, which one would it be and why?

One Piece live-action. I really, really wanna be Kuma.

Which celebrity do you admire or respect for their personality and why?

Katt Williams. He just doesn’t seem to let anything ever really bother him.

Share your opinion on something no one could ever change your mind about.

No one could convince me that Zangief isn’t the best character on Street Fighter.

What is the best song you’ve ever heard in your life and what do you love about it?

“Another Star” by Stevie Wonder is one of the best songs I’ve ever heard in my life. It’s the rhythm the beautiful poetic lyrics and the energy that make that song what it is.

What’s your favorite city in the world to perform, and what’s a city you’re excited to perform in for the first time?

New York City is my favorite to perform in, the energy there is infectious. I’d love to perform in Stockholm, D’Angelo did an amazing performance there.

You are throwing a music festival. Give us the dream lineup of 5 artists that will perform with you and the location where it would be held.

For a festival lineup, it would have to be D’Angelo, The Roots, Lewis Taylor, Stevie Wonder, and Lauryn Hill and it would be in Falmouth.

What would you be doing now if it weren’t for music?

Pub security.

If you could see five years into the future or go five years into the past, which one would you pick and why?

100% go to the past, I’d rather really take in and refresh on everything that’s happened rather than skip and miss out on 5 years of my life.

What’s one piece of advice you’d go back in time to give to your 18-year-old self?

It’s okay to pick up the phone and call back.

It’s 2050. The world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?

I’d like my music to be remembered as an honest diary of my life and character, like a really good time capsule of all the important chapters of my life.

Marking My Time is out now Polydor Records/Def Jam. Find out more information here.

Air Jordan 1 High OG “Green Glow” Updated Release Date

The Air Jordan 1 High OG is a beloved shoe adored by fans worldwide. First released in 1985, Nike designed these kicks for basketball legend Michael Jordan, and they quickly became a cultural hit. With its classic high-top style, the Air Jordan 1 High OG offers both fashion and comfort. Its leather upper ensures durability while maintaining a sleek look. With a sole made for excellent grip, these shoes perform well on the court and in everyday wear.

Featuring a wide range of colors, the Air Jordan 1 High OG allows wearers to showcase their unique style. From the timeless “Bred” to the iconic “Chicago” color scheme, there’s a design for everyone. Over time, the Air Jordan 1 High OG has moved beyond its athletic roots to become a fashion staple, embraced by sneaker enthusiasts and streetwear fans alike. Whether you’re shooting hoops or walking around town, these kicks are sure to turn heads and enhance your style.

Read More: Nike Air Max 1 “White/Alchemy Pink” Coming Soon

“Green Glow” Air Jordan 1 High OG

Air Jordan 1 High OG
Image via Nike

These shoes feature a bright green rubber sole and a clean white midsole, creating a noticeable difference. Made with a white leather base, they are decorated with overlays in black and glowing green leather, improving their appearance. The famous wings logo, done in black, appears on a panel of glowing green leather, adding a bit of elegance. Nike branding on the tongue finishes off the look in a vivid green glow color. Famous for their classic design, these shoes are poised to impress in the sneaker world with their new green glow color scheme.

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Sneaker Bar Detroit reports that the Air Jordan 1 High OG “Green Glow” is going to drop on April 20th, 2024. Also, the retail price will be $180 when they drop. Let us know what you think of this sneaker, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the latest news and updates from around the sneaker world. We will be sure to bring you the biggest releases from the biggest brands.

Green Glow
Image via Nike
Air Jordan 1 High OG
Image via Nike

Read More: Nike GT Cut 3 “Easter” Retailer Photos Revealed

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Stevie J Wants To Fight 50 Cent Over Recent Claims About Diddy

This week there have been a lot of celebrities online sharing thoughts about Diddy. That’s because at the start of the week two of his residences were raided by the feds. They revealed that the raids were in connection with sex trafficking allegations. That came just a few weeks after a lawsuit from Lil Rod made some evocative claims about the rap mogul having sex with other male celebrities and musicians like Stevie J. That one aspect became one of the most talked about details of the entire Diddy saga.

While plenty have been rushing to get their thoughts in recently, 50 Cent has been talking about Diddy nearly nonstop for months. Dating all the way back to Cassie initial lawsuit last year, which broke the dam of accusations against the rap mogul through, 50 has been talking. He was posting on Instagram nearly daily trying to find new ways to take shots at Diddy. Unsurprisingly, that never really slowed up and it’s kicked into overdrive in the past few days. But he might have taken a step too far with one particular post that drew the ire of Stevie J and even resulted in a threat aimed back at him. Check out the post and response below.

Read More: Stevie J Flexes Muscular Physique, Declares 50 “The New 30”

Stevie J Wants To Fight Diddy

After seeing 50 include his name in grooming allegations, Stevie J clapped back. In a video he shared he called out the rapper directly. He doesn’t hesitate in straight up saying he wants to fight him in a televised bout. Stevie claims he wants to “shoot the fade” with the rapper following his newest allegations. He then makes it very clear that he believes in himself not just to start the fight, but win it.

What do you think of Stevie J threatening to fight 50 Cent over claims he made online? Do you think 50 needs to be careful with who he speaks about publicly? Let us know in the comment section below.

Read More: How Many Kids Does Stevie J Have?

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Adidas Crazy 8 “Philly” Receives Drop Details

The Adidas Crazy 8 is gearing up for an exciting new release with its upcoming “Philly” colorway. This iteration of the iconic basketball sneaker boasts a vibrant white and red color scheme, accented with striking blue details. Designed to pay homage to the city of Philadelphia, also known as the City of Brotherly Love, the “Philly” Crazy 8 captures the essence of the city’s rich basketball culture and storied sports history. With its bold colorway and eye-catching design, this sneaker is sure to turn heads both on and off the court.

Whether you’re hitting the hardwood or navigating the city streets, this sneaker offers superior support and cushioning to keep you moving with confidence. With its bold design and unmistakable style, the “Philly” Crazy 8 is set to make a statement in the sneaker world. Sneaker enthusiasts and basketball fans alike can look forward to adding this iconic silhouette to their collection. Stay tuned for more updates on the release date and availability of the Adidas Crazy 8 “Philly” colorway.

Read More: Nike Air Max 1 “White/Alchemy Pink” Coming Soon

“Philly” Adidas Crazy 8

Adidas Crazy 8
Image via Adidas

The sneakers feature a thick sail and blue rubber sole and an interesting midsole. Also, the midsole almost extends into the upper and features an all-sail. Further, the uppers are constructed of red and sail suede material with more blue details. The Adidas logo can be found on the tongue and also on the heels. Overall, the sneaker features the color scheme of Philadelphia. Get ready for the drop of these colorful kicks.

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Kicks On Fire reports that the Adidas Crazy 8 “Phily” is releasing on April 27th. Also, the retail price of the sneakers will be $150 when they drop. Further, make sure to let us know what you think about these kicks in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for the most recent updates and news from the sneaker community. We’ll make sure to offer you the newest products from the most notable brands.

Philly
Image via Adidas
Adidas Crazy 8
Image via Adidas

Read More: Nike GT Cut 3 “Easter” Retailer Photos Revealed

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Kat Graham Net Worth 2024: What Is The Actress Worth?

Kat Graham is an actress, singer, and dancer who has built an impressive career that spans television, music, and film. Her career has culminated in a net worth of $3 million by 2024, as reported by CelebrityNetWorth. Best known for her role as Bonnie Bennett on the popular TV series The Vampire Diaries, Graham has showcased her acting and made her mark in the music industry with her unique sound and style. Her journey from a child performer to a multifaceted artist in Hollywood speaks volumes about her talent, work ethic, and the diverse paths she has navigated in the entertainment industry.

Beyond her entertainment achievements, Graham has leveraged her platform for activism, notably in her advocacy for refugee rights and the empowerment of young women. This underscores her commitment to making a difference on and off the screen. This narrative explores the dimensions of Kat Graham’s career, her contributions to the arts and philanthropy, and the attributes that have defined her success.

A Multifaceted Talent

kat graham
ATLANTA, GA – NOVEMBER 09: Actors Nina Dobrev and Kat Graham attend The Vampire Diaries 100th Episode Celebration on November 9, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Rick Diamond/Getty Images for Warner Bros)

Born in Geneva, Switzerland, and raised in Los Angeles, California, Kat Graham’s artistic journey began at a young age. She broke into the entertainment industry with commercials and television guest spots. Later, she gradually built a name for herself. Her role on The Vampire Diaries brought her international recognition. It showcased her acting range and solidified her status as a rising star in Hollywood. Graham’s portrayal of Bonnie Bennett, a powerful witch, was a cornerstone of the show’s success, endearing her to fans worldwide.

Her music career, marked by the release of her debut album Roxbury Drive and the single “1991,” has further demonstrated her versatility as an artist. Graham’s musical endeavors reflect her eclectic taste and dedication to crafting a sound uniquely her own, blending R&B, pop, and 90s influences.

Advocate & Innovator

kat graham
WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA – FEBRUARY 26: Record producer Quincy Jones (L) and actor Kat Graham attend the. 25th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation’s Academy Awards Viewing Party at The City of West. Hollywood Park on February 26, 2017, also in West Hollywood, California. (Photo by Michael Kovac/Getty Images for EJAF)

Further, Kat Graham’s impact is equally noteworthy. Her work with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and outspoken support for LGBTQ+ rights highlight her commitment to advocacy and social justice. Graham’s efforts extend beyond mere celebrity endorsement. She also actively participates in campaigns, raising awareness and funds for those in need.

Moreover, her innovative approach to fashion and her role as a fashion icon has made her a regular on red carpets. She uses her visibility to promote messages of inclusivity and self-expression. Graham’s influence as a public figure transcends her artistic achievements, making her a powerful voice for change.

Future Projects & Legacy

kat graham
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 04: (FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY). Kat Graham attends the 66th GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on February 04, 2024, also in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

As Kat Graham looks to the future, her career trajectory points toward continued diversity in her roles and projects. With a net worth of $3 million in 2024, she is poised for further accomplishments in acting, music, and beyond. Fans eagerly anticipate her upcoming projects in film and television. This promises to add new dimensions to her already impressive portfolio.

Kat Graham’s legacy, however, is not merely defined by her wealth or fame. It is also highlighted by her impact as an artist and activist. Through her work, she inspires a generation to pursue their passions, stand for their beliefs, and make a difference in the world. Overall, her journey reflects a commitment to growth, creativity, and philanthropy, setting her apart as a true icon of her time.

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Travis Scott Requested To Be Dismissed From The Astroworld Festival Lawsuit, Saying He Shouldn’t Be Responsible For Safety Or Security Concerns

travis scott
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After being named as a defendant in the hundreds of combined lawsuits stemming from the 2021 Astroworld Festival disaster, Travis Scott has at last asked out of future proceedings. According to Billboard, Travis’ attorney Daniel Petrocelli filed a motion to dismiss him from the suit on Monday, asserting that ensuring safety and security at live events is “not the job of performing artists” — even ones whose album tiles grace said events.

The motion reads in part, “Like any other adrenaline-inducing diversion, music festivals must balance exhilaration with safety and security—but that balance is not the job of performing artists, even those involved in promoting and marketing performances. Which only makes sense: Performing artists, even those who engage in certain promotional activities, have no inherent expertise or specialized knowledge in concert safety measures, venue security protocols, or site-design.”

Even so, the defense writes, Travis did make concessions to alleviate crowding issues when they were brought to his attention during the planning phase. “When, during festival planning, concerns arose about the risk of a stampede occurring in the festival site, the Scott defendants supported festival organizers’ efforts to eliminate that risk by agreeing to remove certain rides and other attractions at the site,” Petrocelli wrote. “Then, when the Scott defendants were told to end the show after Mr. Scott’s guest performer finished performing, they did just that—ending the show as directed.”

Travis is, of course, only one of the named defendants, which included Drake (who has also since requested dismissal from liability), Apple Music, Live Nation Entertainment, and the venue and security companies involved. The nearly 300 cases were combined into a single case in January 2022, and proceedings have have gone relatively slowly since. Scott, after a year out of the spotlight, returned to performing in 2022 and released the follow-up to Astroworld, Utopia, in summer of 2023.

Diddy’s Shares In Revolt TV Were Reportedly Bought By ‘Essence’ Magazine Owner Richelieu Dennis

richelieu dennis
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Amid personal and business turmoil arising from “Me & U” singer Cassie Ventura’s sexual assault lawsuit against him, Sean “Diddy” Combs has seen his fortunes take a tumble. In addition to stepping down as Chairman of his company Revolt Media (and its television network, Revolt TV) and relinquishing his ownership of DeLeón Tequila, he also sold all his shares in Revolt to an undisclosed buyer earlier this week.

It didn’t take long for the buyer’s identity to be revealed, though; according to Page Six, Essence magazine owner Richelieu Dennis is the new owner of the network founded by Diddy in 2013. Dennis was recently profiled in Forbes as “the Godfather of Black business” after selling his company Sundial Brands, LLC — the parent company of SheaMoisture — to Unilever in 2017 and bought Essence the next year. In the interview, he talked about being “bullish on media” in response to rumors he wanted to buy Vice or BET.

He’s been a controversial figure since those splashy moves, with AfroTech noting that some Black culture critics view him as a “sellout” for selling SheaMoisture to the British consumer goods giant. Meanwhile, last year, Business Insider published a report detailing a “dehumanizing” culture at Essence after speaking with twenty then-current and former employees about the brand’s “extremely unhealthy work culture.”

Lil Yachty Launches His Label Concrete Rekordz, Backed By Quality Control And K-Pop Machine HYBE

Lil Yachty has been everywhere lately, collaborating with both major stars like Drake and J. Cole and rising stars like JID and Nemzzz. Now, he’s taking yet another step in furthering his rap dominance, announcing the launch of his new label, Concrete Rekordz. The label is named after his crew, Concrete Boys, who also comprise the roster, and is backed by the label that originally signed Yachty, Quality Control Music.

An additional wrinkle is that Quality Control is now owned by HYBE America, the stateside arm of the Korean entertainment company responsible for the success of K-pop groups like BTS, New Jeans, Seventeen, and Tomorrow X Together. In other words, there’s some serious muscle behind Concrete Rekordz, which accompanied the launch with the release of their new video for “Family Business.”

The Concrete Boys crew consists of Camo!, DC2TRILL, Draft Day, and Karrahbooo, who accompanied Yachty on his 2023 Field Trip Tour.

In a press release, Quality Control COO “Coach K” Lee said, “Yachty has always had profound vision since the day we met and to see him take his curatorial magic and expand it to discover and enhance other artists is exciting to me.” Meanwhile, his co-founder, QC CEO Pierre “P” Thomas, said, “I’m excited to see Yachty step into the role of executive alongside being one of the most formidable creatives in the world with such an eye for talent. Karrahbooo is a star and they are all going to be the new wave of cool that can bring something different to the culture that is so badly needed.”

You can check out the video for “Family Business” above.