The Museum of Graffiti is proud to present “Samuel Sumak’s Visions,” a compelling exhibition that explores the story of Samuel Sumak, a graphic artist and muralist whose life and work have shaped the Chilean graffiti scene. The opening reception will take place on Friday, October 18, 2024, from 7 PM to 10 PM at the Museum of Graffiti, located 276 NW 26th Street in Miami’s dynamic Wynwood Arts District.
This exhibition, the result of the U.F.O. (Unión, Fuerza, Objetivo) collective’s workshop, includes a wide array of media such as paintings, drawings, installations, and graffiti. At its core, the exhibit tells the powerful story of Samuel Sumak, who was persecuted during the 1990s and forced to live underground as a vagabond, adopting the name Bultisam. This deeply personal narrative is depicted in a large triptych, which Sumak has been painting over the past three years, capturing his journey of resilience, transformation, and artistic expression.
In addition to the visual journey presented by Sumak, the evening will feature a live musical performance by Foex, a prominent Chilean music producer and founding member of the U.F.O. collective. Known for his genre-defying sound, Foex blends Hip-Hop, Soul, and Electronica, infusing his music with experimental creativity. As the founder of Potoco Discos, Chile’s pioneering urban music label, Foex has earned recognition for his cutting-edge approach to music production. His performance will provide a rich auditory backdrop to the exhibition, enhancing the evening’s immersive experience.
One of Philadelphia’s most beloved ever Philadelphia transplants is joining two or its loudly heralded natives sons for a Voter Registration and Town Hall in the City of Brotherly Love. Allen Iverson headlines a list of names that include Beanie Sigel and Freeway converging on Philly today at the Liacouras Center.
The organization Vote Or Else has been spearheading campaigns to get people
To register and go out to the polls come Election Day. They have also organized this event where athletes and luminaries from the hip-hop community have an open dialogue with themselves and amongst the people where they will speak on the upcoming election as well as issues facing the community they want to see addressed not just by the next President, but by state and local officials.
NFL legend Michael Vick, Nipsey Hussle’s brother and the head of The Marathon Brand and Blacc Sam, broadcasting Hall of Famer Angie Martinez, Killer Mike, Havoc of Mobb Deep, Jadakiss, Icewear Vezzo, and Star of Power Book II: Ghost, Michael Rainey, are among those coming to participate.
“Many of us in the hip-hop community have always been leaders for the Black community in general and it’s only right we come together, start organizing and discuss these issues,” Beanie Sigel said. “Of course everything can’t be solved overnight, but the more we dialogue and build with each other, the closer we get to coming up with solutions.”
Beanie started a journey to get better educated himself and educate others as well when it comes to voting earlier this year. His great friend and head of the organization Mobilize Justice Marvin Bing, urged him to get more involved.
This summer Sigel aligned himself with Mobilize Justice as well as organizations The Black Church PAC and AAPI(those three entities have banded together to form Vote or Else, with anti-gun violence, anti- voter suppression, and anti-Mass incarceration as main initiatives) to get active. Him and Bing helped recruit artists and activist to not just go on the communities and talk to people about the the absolute need to vote, but last month, Sigel was joined by a assortment of Detroit MCS such as Icewear Vezzo and Baby Money as they went door to door in various Motor City communities and registered those eligible to vote.
“I’m not telling people which politician to vote for,” Sigel advised. “I’m telling people they should get informed about candidates’ policies, not just Presidential, but state and local. Then you go to the polls and make an informed decision. You can affect change sitting on the sidelines.”
Sigel and company have already been to Detroit with Philly locked in for today.
Grammy nominated, NY Times Best Selling Author, Jay “Jeezy” Jenkins is set to host the 4th Annual Sno Ball Gala, a night of glamor and giving back, on Thursday, October 3, 2024. This highly anticipated event will take place at a private location, with proceeds benefiting The Street Dreamz Foundation.
The evening promises to be a spectacular affair, featuring a star-studded guest list, gourmet dining, and entertainment. Comedian Mike Epps will serve as the master of ceremonies, bringing his signature humor to the gala. Guests will dance the night away to the beats of the renowned DJ Cassidy.
A highlight of the evening will be the silent and live auctions, offering attendees the chance to bid on exclusive items and experiences while supporting a worthy cause.
The Street Dreamz Foundation, founded by Jeezy, is dedicated to empowering underprivileged youth through education, entrepreneurship, and community development programs. All proceeds from the Sno Ball Gala will directly support the foundation’s initiatives.
“The Sno Ball Gala is more than just a night of entertainment,” says Jeezy. “It’s about coming together as a community to make a real difference in the lives of young people who need our support. I’m grateful for everyone who contributes to making this event a success year after year.”
Snoop Dogg has been a trailblazer since his debut album Doggystyle hit the charts, and his laid-back persona, distinctive rap style, and business savvy have solidified him as one of the most recognized rappers in the world. But Snoop isn’t just a music legend—he’s built a successful empire through creative endorsements and partnerships, aligning with his authentic, larger-than-life personality. One of the most enduring and surprising collaborations in his portfolio is with none other than lifestyle icon Martha Stewart.
Journalist Courtney Brown recently caught up with Snoop Dogg where they discussed his latest collaboration with Stewart: the launch of the “Hold the Phone” Case by BIC EZ Reach Lighters. Just in time for the holiday season, this new venture continues to showcase the playful chemistry between the two while offering a product that’s as stylish as it is practical.
The “Hold the Phone” Case: Where Style Meets Functionality
The limited-edition “Hold the Phone” Case is BIC’s latest release, designed for iPhone 15 users who want to keep their phones—and their favorite BIC EZ Reach Lighter—close at hand. Priced at $49.99, the phone case comes with two custom lighters, each reflecting Snoop Dogg and Martha Stewart’s distinct personalities and signature designs. It’s a fun yet functional way to ensure you’ve got your lighter within reach at all times, whether for lighting candles or sparking up the grill.
Snoop shared his inspiration behind this collaboration: “Martha and I know how to kick it and have a good time, so whenever we get the chance to link up and work together, I’m all in. If you haven’t peeped my BIC EZ Reach Lighter series yet, you better slide through and check them out. They’re a vibe and the ‘Hold the Phone’ Case was inspired by my BIC EZ Reach designs.”
This isn’t the first time Snoop and Martha have teamed up with BIC EZ Reach Lighters. The duo has been collaborating for years, turning ordinary items into must-have accessories by adding their unique flair. Snoop emphasized that, for him, it’s always about balancing style with utility: “I always like to keep it fly, but I also need to keep it functional too. That’s something Martha and I have always connected on – why settle when you can have both style and functionality? That’s exactly what the ‘Hold the Phone’ Case by BIC EZ Reach brings to the table.”
The Dynamic Duo’s Chemistry
Snoop and Martha’s unlikely friendship has long been a source of fascination and joy for fans. Their collaborations—from cooking shows to product lines—highlight their easygoing chemistry and mutual respect. With the “Hold the Phone” Case, BIC continues to tap into this dynamic, blending both Snoop’s cool factor and Martha’s impeccable sense of style.
“We enjoy working together. It’s real and genuine,” Snoop said. “We keep coming back because it’s enjoyable to do this all as a team.”
Jeany Mui, Marketing Director at BIC Flame for Life, echoed this sentiment, expressing excitement about the latest collaboration: “The ‘Hold the Phone’ Cases by BIC EZ Reach Lighters is another fun and playful idea celebrating our longstanding partnership with Martha Stewart and Snoop Dogg. Their chemistry continues to inspire trendy and practical accessories, and we’re thrilled to launch another must-have ahead of the holiday season.”
The Perfect Blend of Practicality and Fun
Martha Stewart also shared her enthusiasm for the partnership, noting how it brings a touch of flair to an everyday essential. “I keep one of my own BIC EZ Reach Lighter designs in nearly every room of my home, and with the launch of our ‘Hold the Phone’ by Case by BIC EZ Reach Lighters, I can easily bring my favorite lighters with me on-the-go. Why not make your everyday items fashionable too?”
With its 1.45-inch extended wand, the BIC EZ Reach Lighter is perfect for those hard-to-reach places, offering both ease and safety. And with the “Hold the Phone” Case, you’ll never have to worry about misplacing your lighter again.
A Must-Have for the Holidays
Starting Friday, October 4, consumers can head to BIC’s website to purchase the limited-edition iPhone 15-compatible* Martha Stewart or Snoop Dogg-themed “Hold the Phone” Cases. Each case, priced at $49.99, comes with two BIC EZ Reach Lighters and is available while supplies last. With the holiday season just around the corner, this collaboration is sure to be a hit, combining convenience, creativity, and a whole lot of personality.
Snoop Dogg’s ability to continually reinvent himself through partnerships like this one is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. From his iconic debut album to collaborations that span industries, Snoop remains a model for artists and creatives looking to merge authenticity with innovation. Whether it’s his music, his culinary ventures, or his work with BIC, Snoop Dogg’s impact goes far beyond the mic. And as long as there are opportunities to innovate, he’ll be there, lighting the way—sometimes literally.
Since its birth over 50 years ago, hip-hop has undergone a series of transformations, largely in part due to the many musical and cultural influences that have impacted it. While Hispanic artists have naturally had a great deal of influence on hip-hop music, so have the DJs and producers that have used their sound to influence hip-hop or utilized key elements of hip-hop in their sound. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, below are some of the well-known and up and coming Hispanic DJs and producers.
Sinego
Sinego, from Bogotá, Colombia, gained recognition with his house bolero songs, revitalizing traditional Latin sounds in tracks like “Verte Triste” and “No Soy De Aquí.” Collaborating with artists like Sofi Tukker and Bomba Estéreo, he aims to push Latin EDM with his upcoming album, Alterego, which blends bolero, cumbia, samba, tango, and mambo, along with a techno-influenced “Noche” version. Sinego describes Alterego as a sonic journey merging Latin traditions with electronic music’s possibilities.
Gordo
Gordo is bridging Latin and electronic music, gaining traction in both English and Spanish markets. After collaborating with Drake on Honestly, Nevermind, he’s returning Spanish tech house to its roots with tracks like “Hombres y Mujeres” featuring Feid and “Parcera” with Maluma.
Deorro
Deorro blends his Mexican American heritage in music, performing globally at major festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza. His album Orro features regional Mexican influences, collaborating with artists like Los Tucanes de Tijuana and Eslabon Armado. He values collaboration for inspiring new sounds.
The Martinez Brothers
The Martinez Brothers, DJs and producers from The Bronx, are renowned for their long residencies in Ibiza and Miami as well as their performances at major festivals such as EDC and Tomorrowland. Named Mixmag’s DJs of the Year in 2014, they blend house, techno, and hip-hop. Their musical journey began in church, leading to mentorship by Dennis Ferrer and a thriving international career.
Coco & Breezy
Coco & Breezy are another set of siblings making splashes on the charts. The twin sisters Corianna and Brianna Dotson, have expanded their eyewear brand into a lifestyle, DJing at festivals and producing music that blends house, R&B, and pop influences.
Bizarrap
Argentina’s Bizarrap launched his BZRP Music Sessions in 2018, initially featuring freestyle rap over hip-hop beats. Recent sessions highlight pronounced house elements which have put him on global charts across multiple genres.
Des & Del
Des & Del, friends for over five years, began playing techno and house shows in Miami, quickly gaining support from artists like Michael Bibi and Cloonee. Their standout track “Like This” and their party concept “Groove State” showcase their unique blend of Jackin’ House and progressive techno influences.
Mareels
Mareels, a Spanish DJ and producer, has rapidly risen in the music scene within just a year, earning support from artists like Wade, Cloonee, and Michael Bibi. His sound resonates at major festivals worldwide, including EDC, ElRow, and Amnesia.
Juan Dileju
Juan Dileju from Cali, Colombia, transitioned from a childhood fascination with drums and piano to creating electrifying Tech House beats. Signed to major labels like Spinnin’ Records, he’s gaining international recognition, supported by DJs such as Armin van Buuren and Hardwell.
The late summer months of August and September celebrate both the anniversary of hip-hop as well as Hispanic heritage, a fitting combination since Hispanic culture and sound have had a significant impact on the evolution of not just Latin Hip-Hop, but hip-hop in general, in a story that tells a dynamic journey reflective of the interplay between cultural identities, socio-political contexts, and musical innovation.
Emerging in the late 1980s and early 1990s following the introduction of rap and hip-hop into mainstream music, Latin hip-hop as we know it today began as a powerful voice for Latino communities in the United States, not just in New York City and Los Angeles, but throughout the country and the world.
While the original roots of Latin hip-hop can be traced to the influence of pioneering African American hip-hop artists, Latino artists, inspired by the burgeoning hip-hop culture, began to incorporate their unique cultural elements, such as Spanish lyrics and traditional Latin rhythms, into their music. This fusion gave birth to a distinct genre that resonated with Latino youth, who saw it as a means to express their experiences and challenges.
Early Latin hip-hop artists like Mellow Man Ace and Cypress Hill played a pivotal role in popularizing the genre. Mellow Man Ace’s 1989 hit “Mentirosa” blended English and Spanish lyrics, showcasing bilingualism as a signature of Latin hip-hop. DJ Charlie Chase, the DJ for the hip-hop group the Cold Crush Brothers, fused elements of salsa with hip-hop in New York in the 1980s. In 1992, Mesanjarz of Funk was the first Spanish rap group signed to a major label (Atlantic Records).
As the genre evolved throughout the 1990s, a new wave of artists emerged, diversifying Latin hip-hop’s sound and reach. Like hip-hop in general, Latin hip-hop didn’t have a uniform sound. While each region and artist had their distinct sound, all of the artists were instrumental in shaping the Latin American hip-hop scene, addressing social issues and personal struggles through their music.
Oakland-based group Lighter Shade of Brown adopted a distinct Bay Area sound, while artists such as Frost, Cypress Hill, and others from Southern California had a distinct LA sound. Chino XL of New Jersey made a splash with his unique sound influenced by Cypress Hill and East Coast hip-hop artists of the mid-1990s. In 1998, New York’s Big Pun became the first Latin solo artist to reach platinum sales for his 1997 album Capital Punishment, which included the classic hit “Still Not a Player.” Jennifer Lopez further brought elements of Latin music into the hip-hop and pop genres, solidifying herself as one of the most successful Latina musical artists in the United States.
The evolution of Latin hip-hop wasn’t limited to the continental United States. Acts like Control Machete from Mexico and Vico C (often known as the “father of Spanish rap”) and Lisa M (sometimes referred to as “the queen of Spanish rap”), both from Puerto Rico, introduced regional styles and narratives, broadening the genre’s appeal. In Puerto Rico, Tego Calderon was also one of the first artists to blend hip-hop and reggae elements, paving the way for artists such as Daddy Yankee and giving rise to reggaeton. This genre fused hip-hop, dancehall, and Latin rhythms. Lego Calderon and Daddy Yankee’s success quickly demonstrated Latin urban music’s commercial viability on an international scale- especially when the internet quickly allowed culture to transcend global boundaries.
In the 2010s and beyond, Latin hip-hop continued to evolve, embracing new influences and technologies. Artists like Mochakk, Jessica Audiffred, Geo, Carolo,ARTIX!, and more have pushed the boundaries of the genre, integrating EDM into their distinct sounds. Snow the Product established herself as one of the most versatile female artists in the genre, while Becky G established a strong crossover presence on both the Spanish charts and mainstream American Top 40 charts. These artists have achieved massive global success, breaking language barriers and solidifying Latin hip-hop’s place in the mainstream music industry.
Today, Latin hip-hop reflects a rich tapestry of influences and is a powerful medium for storytelling, cultural expression, and social commentary. Artists such as Karol G, Peso Pluma, Bad Bunny, and more continue fusing Latin and hip-hop elements into mainstream American music. In contrast, international artists from Central and South America continue to build global fanbases. Through it all, Latin hip-hop stands as a testament to the resilience and creativity of Latino artists. It will likely continue to evolve, remaining a dynamic and influential force in the global music landscape.
While dozens of hip-hop artists have expressed appreciation of Taylor Swift‘s talents (with several such as Ice Spice and Post Malone going as far as to collab with her), one rapper is definitely not a fan of the songstress.
Lil Pump took to Instagram over the weekend to show him donning a t-shirt that said “F*** Talor Swift.” In an Instagram post, which Pump captioned “JUST A QUICK REMINDER FOR THE SWIFTIES” (complete with a middle finger emoji), he can be seen taking off his t-shirt and trading it for a simple white t-shirt with red letter that read “F*** Talor Swift” on the front as well as on the back.
He appears in the video with an unnamed Asian woman at what appears to be a shopping center in Hong Kong (he says “I love Hong Kong” in the video).
This is not Pump’s first shot at Swift. On September 15, he tweeted “Taylor Swift….go f*** yourself” before criticizing her endorsement of Kamala Harris for president. Pump is an outspoken Trump supporter, going so far as to wrap a vehicle with Trump’s likeness and posting it on Instagram with the caption “Pump for Trump.”
As of Sunday night, Taylor Swift had yet to respond to Pump’s choice in attire.
Despite all the so called ambiguity around Drake post rap beef and all that jazz, his brand seems to still moving forward. Specifically, Drizzy’s clothing brand, October’s Very Own (OVO), just dropped a collaboration with Yale University for a limited-edition merchandise collection. Where can you find it? Well, it’s out now and available both in-store at the Yale Bookstore and online at the OVO website.
Get this, the collection includes four items, with the “Campus Varsity Jacket” being the priciest at $678, while the “Campus T-shirt” and “Campus Sportcap” are priced at $68 each.
Not too bad. Just depends on your tastes when it comes to these type of capsule collections.
Here’s what Deron Michael, general merchandising manager at the Yale Bookstore, said about the collection, breaking down how it caters to a youthful, urban aesthetic: “Drake is all about hip-hop, and the kids love hip-hop, so it’s really catering to the aesthetic that the kids are looking for: oversized, urban flare, eye-catchy.” The collaboration was made possible through Barnes and Noble College, which operates the Yale Bookstore.
Now despite the high price tag, although we doubt most Yale students are worried about that part, Michael noted the collection’s growing popularity since its launch on September 20, stating, “Like any other expensive brands we have as well, nothing goes off the shelves, but it’s catching eyes, and the pieces that he created are eye-catching and really nice.” The bookstore has already sold one jacket, several hoodies, and a few shirts.
A key component to making this happen was a green light from Yale’s department of marketing and trademark licensing. They approved the use of the Yale logo for the OVO collection, according to Paul Murawski, director of the department. The collection marks a significant collaboration between the Ivy League school and a popular cultural brand, following Drake’s previous mention of Yale in his 2011 track “Make Me Proud.”
Interestingly, Matt Letourneau, a Yale student and campus manager for Fresh Prints, believes the collection will appeal more to alumni than students, due to its high price point. He noted, “I think that it’s good for Yale’s brand to appeal to pop culture like that. I think it’s a smart step for Yale because it offers a reputable designer that they know people are going to like here at school.”
Oh but wait, Yale isn’t the only higher education to benefit from the collab with OVO. In addition to Yale, OVO has released similar collections for Stanford, the University of Cambridge, the University of Toronto, and the University of Western Ontario. While Barnes and Noble is facilitating the sale of OVO merchandise at Yale, other schools have received apparel from Travis Scott’s “Jack Goes Back to College” collection, which was released earlier this year. However, Scott’s collection, which includes a wider range of items, did not feature any Ivy League schools.
As you can expect, OVO’s “Campus Varsity Jacket” and “Campus Fleece Hoodie” from the University of Western Ontario collection have already sold out online, reflecting strong demand for the brand’s university-themed collaborations.
Looks like it’s business as usual for OVO and feels like they’re winning on this front.
Just a friendly reminder that last September, almost a year ago plus a couple weeks, and before becoming the Democratic presidential nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris hosted a celebration marking hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, reaffirming her connection to the culture.
On September 9, 2023, Harris welcomed some of hip-hop’s pioneers and stars, including Common, Jeezy, MC Lyte, and Roxanne Shante, to the vice presidential residence for the event.
ICYMI, Hip-hop’s 50th anniversary, was widely celebrated in 2023, traces its origins to an August 11, 1973 back-to-school party in the Bronx, where DJ Kool Herc first introduced the genre’s signature sound. Reflecting on the significance of hip-hop, Harris remarked, “Hip-hop is the ultimate American art form” and that it “shapes every aspect of America’s popular culture.” She emphasized, “Hip-hop culture is American culture.”
Harris who has been vocal about her respect and love for Hip Hop, also acknowledged the genre’s global impact, its role in social and racial justice movements, and its influence as a multibillion-dollar industry built on generations of artistic expression.
Quoting Public Enemy’s Chuck D, she said rap serves as “Black America’s CNN,” adding, “It has always channeled the voices of the people. It tells the stories that don’t make the news.”
That part.
That 2023 celebration featured performances and was a collaboration with the Recording Academy’s Black Music Collective and Live Nation Urban. Harris’s husband, Doug Emhoff, also embraced the spirit of the event, declaring, “This is a hip-hop household!”
While the celebration underscored Harris’s connection to the genre, the event highlighted the lasting impact of hip-hop on both American and global culture.
Curious. What did Trump do to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop? We’ll wait …
Remember when Diddy received the key to the city of New York, awarded by Mayor Adams?
Combs, once a globally celebrated figure in music, business and the culture had been honored with the prestigious key to the city earlier this year in recognition of his contributions to the arts, culture, and community. At the time, Mayor Adams praised Diddy’s impact on New York and his influence as a global icon, calling him “a symbol of resilience and entrepreneurial success that embodies the spirit of this great city.”
But in an unprecedented turn of events, Diddy was actually asked to return the key by Adams after Diddy’s notorious hotel hallway abuse video surfaced where he was on surveillance camera kicking and brutalizing Cassie.
In a brief statement, Combs acknowledged the request, saying, “I respect Mayor Adams’ wishes and have returned the key. New York City is my heart, and I will always be dedicated to supporting my community, no matter the circumstances.”
As the world knows, the disgraced mogul is now under federal detention as he awaits trial.
Get this, a few months after the disgusting Cassie video, Mayor Eric Adams honored Fat Joe by presenting him with the Key to New York City. It was well deserved in our opinion. ”I gotta thank the pioneers,” Joe said after he accepted the key. “From Melle Mel to KRS-One, LL COOL J, Heavy D, and the list goes on. I want to shout out everybody here because we in the Bronx and I know I know all of you. Everyone last one of you. I love you.”
Now with the key to city representing integrity and contributing to the foundational principles of New York, old images between Diddy and Adams have caused a stir across the city now that Mayor Eric Adams has himself been indicted by federal authorities.
Many questioning the impact of the indictment on Mayor Adams’ legacy and his relationships with high-profile figures like Combs.
Adams, who had positioned himself as a leader with deep ties to both the political and entertainment spheres, now faces growing scrutiny from both the public and federal authorities.
Was Adams request to Diddy hypocritical? Just a few months ago, Adams was under fire from the feds seizing his devices and he was taking aways keys like he wasn’t being investigated by the feds.
Now he’s potentially facing serious charges as the first mayor of New York to be indicted while serving as Mayor. Wild stuff.
As the legal proceedings are just kicking off, it remains to be seen how this development will affect Mayor Adams’ standing in the city, as well as the broader political landscape.
Meanwhile, Diddy is facing a litany of charges and if it goes one way, he might never see the streets again. One thing is for sure, we doubt he cares about keys to any cities in federal lockup.
