International Artist Iakopo Talks Collaborating w/ Ne-Yo, 2 Chainz & More!

International Artist Iakopo Talks Collaborating w/ Ne-Yo, 2 Chainz & More!

Iakopo is an international recording artist who brings his good energy and vibrations anywhere he goes. Born in California but growing up in Upolu, Samoa, Iakopo deems himself a mix between a Cali boy and an island boy. Speaking fluent Samoan and Japanese, he also boasts a heavy Japanese influence in both his personal and professional life.

In fact, Iakopo’s wife Sakura da Patra works directly with him on his visuals, choreographing and producing his new single and visual titled “Roll It.” The song is dedicated to both the art of rolling weed, as well as rolling your hips on the dance floor.

When it comes to his sound, Iakopo prides himself in his tropical, reggae music. He also blends the genres of reggae, dancehall, and Hip-Hop, creating his own melting pot that distinguishes him from the others.

Iakopo has standout features with 2 Chainz, Ne-Yo, and an unreleased record with the legendary Snoop Dogg. “Roll It” arrives in perfect timing for his forthcoming album, slated to release in November.

The Source caught up with Iakopo in downtown Los Angeles to discuss his recent releases, working with 2 Chainz, new single with Ne-Yo, unreleased Snoop Dogg collab, the independent grind, and more!

You’re shooting a music video in LA?

We’re shooting a music video on Monday. For my new single that just dropped called “Roll It.” It’s a reggaeton, upbeat party song. We shot half of the video in the desert, in Lancaster area. We’re shooting the rest of it in LA.

What inspired “Roll It”? 

To be honest with you, the song came out as a freestyle. This record label called No Genre invited me to the studio. They’re mostly reggaeton, it’s what they specialize in. They’re based in LA, I really love them. They invited me to do a couple of tracks with them. When I got the studio, they said “Oh, we have some producers we think would be perfect for you.” They brought some people in. The first track they played was that one. I lit up a joint and I freestyled the song. It was one of about five or six songs that we did. I basically smoked the joint. It was reggae vibes, so it was really easy for me. I just got in the pocket. “Roll It,” it‘s a double meeting too. Because I’m telling the girl roll your hips. So roll your joint or roll your hips, both. 

Hip-Hop celebrates 50 years this year, what was the moment you fell in love with Hip-Hop?

I remember listening to Jay Z’s first big album, The Blueprint. And Tupac’s album was there. When I heard the Tupac song “Changes,” that definitely touched my heart and touched my soul.

Favorite artists of all time? 

I’d definitely put Bob Marley in there, John Lennon in there. There’s an artist named Vaughn Benjamin, he’s a singer for Midnite. Definitely not a very well-known group, but that guy was the most prolific songwriter/artist I’ve ever met in my life. His lyrical approach and the information that’s coated in his music, I never came across another artist that did it so well like he did. 

What was the highlight from working with 2 Chainz? 

I really got to know 2 Chainz more than I did previously. I was very impressed with his creativity and the vibe that he comes with, because he’s very intelligent. He’s very eclectic. I was very

honored to work with him. The more that I got to know him and his music, the more I cherish and value our songs together for sure. The song itself, it’s been doing amazing. “Top of the Hill.” 

How did you end up connecting with Ne-Yo on “Feels”?

We connected through my manager. We did the song about a year and a half ago. I had the song and I was waiting for the right time to release it. We recorded the song in Dallas, Texas. We got in the studio two or three times before we completely finalized it, then we mixed it out here in LA. 

How does it feel for it to chart?

Today, that song for the Spotify charts is #21 in Dallas. That’s funny, because we recorded there in Dallas. Also today, it hit #9 in Chicago. It’s done more than that. But today, that’s where it’s at.

Talk about “Sparrows” going viral.

“Sparrows” was really my lucky — I’ve been having a lot of great success with the music after I came here to the States. But “Sparrows” was definitely one of the big songs. For me, especially was one that I did by myself. It hasn’t stopped. It’s been viral for a year, thousands of dancers and clubs doing videos today. That was cool too because at that time, I just left my label. I didn’t have any marketing, I didn’t have budget. I didn’t have nothing behind it. I got lucky with that one. Everybody loves “Sparrows.”

How’s the independent grind? 

It’s great. It’s really busy, I have to wear a lot of different hats. Doing two, three songs a minute kind of thing. But I do have a team now in a way. I’m operating somewhat independently in that I’m calling all of my own shots. I’m making all of my own moves and choices, according to my own preference. But I do have a team, shout out Music2DNA. My manager Lake Davis. I love you bro, he’s really awesome. 

Whatever happened to the song with Snoop Dogg?

That’s one that I have in the vault. We’re looking at releasing the top of the year, because I have an album also titled Feels dropping in November. A lot of stuff going on. 

Talk about doing events with your wife.

Tomorrow, we are hosting the Ttt Time event. It’s an event, dance company. Every two or three months, we do a tour in Japan with hundreds of different dancers. Maybe incorporate dance battles and choreography with the live show. We’re doing our first one tomorrow in Torrance 

at View, Music Bar & Lounge. That’s going to be our first one. We have about 20 or 30 girls fly out from Japan to join us.

What’s one thing fans may not know about you?

I’m vegetarian.

Anything else you want people to know about you?

I love y’all. To my fans, I really do appreciate all the love and support and energy you guys bring. I’m here to give you guys good music and hope y’all continue to enjoy it. Keep rocking with me.

We got a lot of stuff coming in. We got a new album. We got a new song with Snoop Dogg coming as well. It’s going to be an eventful year for sure. Stay tuned, keep watching, and keep it love. 

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Sarz, Skrillex, and Crayon Unite for “Yo Fam!” Single

Sarz, Skrillex, and Crayon Unite for "Yo Fam!" Single

Nigerian music maestro, Sarz, has dropped the highly-anticipated music video for his latest single “Yo Fam!” featuring the renowned dubstep and EDM DJ-producer Skrillex and Nigerian singer/songwriter Crayon. Now available through UnitedMasters, this track is the debut single from Sarz’s forthcoming album, set to hit the airwaves early in 2024.

The music video beautifully complements the song’s rhythm and vibe, capturing the essence of Sarz’s signature afro-fusion style. With a blend of music, dance, fashion, and art, it pays homage to Nigeria’s rich culture, the birthplace of Afrobeats.

The video’s atmospheric production seamlessly transitions from day to night, mirroring the essence of the track, which celebrates life, freedom, and authenticity.

Sarz is the creative genius behind global chart-toppers like Beyoncé’s “Find Your Way Back” and Drake’s “One Dance.” In “Yo Fam!” the video showcases Sarz’s artistic prowess and exceptional production skills while spotlighting the authenticity of those propelling the Afrobeats movement.

With this latest release, Sarz continues to make his mark as a trailblazing figure in the global music scene. Fans can immerse themselves in the captivating visuals and infectious rhythms of “Yo Fam!” while eagerly awaiting the arrival of his upcoming album.

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Pharrell Williams to Headline SOUNDSTORM in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Pharrell Williams to Headline SOUNDSTORM in Riyadh

SOUNDSTORM, the colossal multi-genre music festival, is set to return to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this December, and it’s making waves worldwide with its star-studded lineup. The 4th edition of SOUNDSTORM, known for pushing boundaries, will feature Grammy award-winning producer, singer, and songwriter Pharrell Williams as the headlining act.

With a career spanning decades, Pharrell is a luminary in the music and entertainment industry. Renowned for chart-topping hits and innovative collaborations, he’s set to deliver an unforgettable performance.

While Pharrell’s ‘Phriends’ and the complete 2023 lineup are yet to be revealed, tickets are selling fast. Last year, SOUNDSTORM hosted over 600,000 fans, featuring 260 hours of live music by 200 artists. The festival’s international appeal has made it one of the world’s must-attend events.

Don’t miss out on the chance to witness a phenomenal performance by Pharrell and other top artists at SOUNDSTORM by MDLBEAST. Secure your tickets and be part of this global phenomenon that continues to captivate music enthusiasts worldwide.

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U.S. Secretary of State Launches Global Music Diplomacy Initiative to Promote Peace and Democracy Worldwide, Quincy Jones  Receives Inaugural Peace Through Music Award

Global Music Diplomacy Initiative

U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken has officially unveiled the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, a groundbreaking global effort designed to harness the power of music as a diplomatic tool for promoting peace democracy and advancing broader U.S. foreign policy objectives. This initiative seeks to expand economic equity and the creative economy, foster societal opportunity and inclusion, and enhance access to education through the medium of music.

The Global Music Diplomacy Initiative aspires to foster public-private partnerships, leveraging the support of American companies and non-profit organizations to strengthen connections with people worldwide, convey American leadership, and respond to global challenges.

In the company of senior officials from the Biden-Harris Administration, a bipartisan group of Members of Congress, distinguished figures from the music industry, influential leaders in the arts and humanities, and alumni from the Department’s music diplomacy exchanges, the Secretary unveiled several significant initiatives. These include the introduction of the American Music Mentorship Program, the establishment of the Fulbright-Kennedy Center Visiting Scholar Award in Arts and Science, and a commitment to disseminating American music and lyrics in classrooms worldwide as part of the United States’ extensive investment in global English-language education.

Moreover, in a collaborative effort between the Department and the Recording Academy®, U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken, along with Recording Academy Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Harvey Mason, Jr., presented Quincy Jones with the inaugural Peace through Music Award. This prestigious accolade recognizes and celebrates the invaluable contributions of American music industry professionals, artists, or groups who have played a pivotal role in fostering cross-cultural exchanges and advancing global peace and mutual understanding through their musical endeavors.

Key highlights of the initiative’s launch include:

  1. American Music Mentorship Program: This partnership between the U.S. Department of State and the Recording Academy will bring mid-career music industry professionals, including musical artists, to the United States for mentorship and networking opportunities. The program aims to cultivate a professional music industry ecosystem, support creative talent, and bolster the global creative economy.
  2. Fulbright-Kennedy Center Visiting Scholar Award in Arts and Science: In collaboration with the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Fulbright Program will introduce a new fellowship for foreign scholars that explores the intersections of arts and science. This fellowship focuses on the role of the arts in individual and global health, well-being, and the environment.
  3. Boosting English-Language Learning Through Music: To promote English-language learning, especially for youth and underserved communities, the Department will integrate music into its existing $40 million investment in English-language learning worldwide. The Sing Out Loud program, in collaboration with American Music Abroad, will bring music and lyrics into classrooms globally.

This initiative follows the bipartisan Promoting Peace, Education, And Cultural Exchange (PEACE) Through Music Diplomacy Act signed by President Biden last year.

The launch event featured live performances by American and international artists across various music genres and was supported by generous private-sector sponsors.

Additionally, the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative includes many programs worldwide, such as Arts Envoys traveling to the Middle East and the People’s Republic of China, American Music Abroad, the Next Level hip-hop program, and the Harmundi International Music Summit, among others.

The Global Music Diplomacy Initiative embodies a powerful commitment to the role of music in fostering understanding, diplomacy, and peace on the international stage, making it an essential component of U.S. foreign policy efforts. For more information, visit www.state.gov/musicdiplomacy or contact [email protected].

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Jay Park Sings His Favorite Tupac Song & Launches Won Suju In The US

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Jay Park made history when he partnered with Roc Nation back in 2017, serving as the first Asian artist to sign to the imprint. 

Born in Seattle, Washington, Jay Park fell in love with Hip-Hop at a very early age, getting his start writing raps and breakdancing in high school. In 2004, Jay’s mom had him try out for an audition with South Korean’s JYP Entertainment, eventually selected to become a member of a Korean boy band as an idol. There, he’d train to become the superstar he is today.

But throughout his career, Jay Park has never forgotten his love for Hip-Hop. In 2013, he launched his own hip-hop label called AOMG, based in Seoul, Korea. 

Now, he continues to break down boundaries — this time, launching his soju brand, Won Soju, into the United States. Boasting 2.8 million followers on Instagram alone, Jay Park even changed his IG handle to @moresojuplease. A+ for marketing!

The Source had the pleasure of attending Jay Park’s Won Soju release party at Intercrew in Los Angeles. 

How excited are you to have Won Soju hit the US market?

I’m very excited. The goal in the beginning was to have it next to vodka and tequila. Because everybody knows sake, but not a lot of people know soju. And the people who do know soju, all think that the green bottles only at pochas and stuff like that. I wanted to let people know that there is a more higher quality premium soju that wanted to introduce to people.

What’s the meaning behind Won Soju?

Obviously, it’s the currency won. The Korean currency’s won. In English and in Korean, there’s a bunch of different meanings like one. Or won is circle in Korean, or won like victory won. So it translates very well globally. 

How much soju you are you drinking in a day?

In a day? Oh Lord. A week, maybe three or four bottles a week.

Favorite food to have with Won Soju?

To be honest, I like to just have fruits. You know, I gotta watch my weight. 

I see those abs!

That’s what I’m saying, it’s because I eat it with fruit. The Korean pear, the bae. I love that.

Favorite thing to do when drinking soju?

To be honest, I don’t really like going to clubs anymore. I just like to have conversations with homies. I have a lot of Won Soju with my employees, so we talk about work. Stuff we want to do. Try to stay motivated, inspired.

I heard soju in Korea usually sells for $1. What was your reasoning behind the higher pricing?

Well, it’s made completely different. For Won Soju, first of all the ingredients are more expensive, because we’re using real rice from Wonju-si. Also it’s like Hwayo Soju or Andong Soju, where it’s traditional distilled soju. There’s no preservatives. There’s no sweeteners. There’s no MSG. It’s not made from a huge factory. You can’t mass produce it. 

Hip-Hop celebrates 50 years this year. What was the moment you fell in love with Hip-Hop?

Second grade: Warren G, “Regulate.” Regulators. My cousin had it in his Walkman. I heard that, that’s when I was like “Yo, what is this?!” I immediately fell in love with it.

Last question, favorite Tupac song?

How many brothers fell victim to the streets? Rest in peace young homie, there’s a heaven for G. Be a lie if I told you that I never thought of death. My homie, we the last ones left. But life goes on! [sings Tupac]

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Nigerian Star Patoranking Talks Kanye West Influence, Ludacris Collab & ‘World Best’ Album 

Press Photos by Michelle Hèlena Janssen Dropbox

Patoranking is here to spread nothing but good vibrations from Africa to the rest of the world. Boasting 8.7 million followers on Instagram alone, the Nigerian recording artist is best known for his feel-good blend of dancehall and Afrobeats and songs that will have you undoubtedly moving and grooving on the dance floor.

First getting his start as a dancer, Patoranking is a walking testimony of someone who made it out the ghetto and now lives out his dreams on the daily. 

In describing himself, Patoranking states, “Patoranking is easy-going. Patoranking, aka World Best. Patoranking, the people’s champion. Patoranking, Wilmer and Welda’s dad.”

Over the summer, Patoranking unveiled new music, including “Tonight” featuring Popcaan,” raking in over 2.5 million Youtube views for its video, and more recently the celebratory anthem “Higher.” He also shared an accompanying visual for “Higher” on his IG debuting his two beautiful daughters for the first time ever. 

Both songs are from Patoranking’s brand new studio album titled World Best, with features from Ludacris, Kizz Daniel, and Beenie Man.

The Source spoke with Patoranking during his two days in Los Angeles, taking a break from his time in the studio after putting his finishing touches on World Best. Read below as we discuss his name, love for Hip-Hop, touring with Lauryn Hill, “Higher,” his latest album, fatherhood, and more!

How’d you get your name?

I remember I met a guy at the beach who was playing his guitar. I was vibing to what he was playing. He said, “My youth what dem call you?” I said, “Patrick.” He said “Pato a who? Are you from Puerto Rico?” And we would laugh. He said he has respect for my music and he sees a future for me. He’s going to attach “Ranking” to “Pato,” since my name is Patrick. I’m like “yeah, Patoranking. I love it for me.” The first time I heard it, the sound: “Bam bam, Patoranking. Can’t leave music for banking” [he sings]. It was easy to rhyme with.

Hip-Hop celebrates 50 years this year. Talk about your love for Hip-Hop.

I love Hip-Hop. For me, I want to take it back: the whole revolution of Hip-Hop, because it’s gone through phases. There was a time Hip-Hop was the only platform for people speak their minds. You got conscious rappers as well, that speak for the people. For me, I learned my writing skills from a rapper. 

Who?

I learned quite a lot. My rhyming skills, I learned a couple of things from Kanye. So many rappers that I listen to that I like: Drake, Kendrick Lamar. All of them.


Did you work with Kanye? Or just listening?

I listened to Kanye. I haven’t worked with Kanye. I’ll work with him soon, and Drake.

What’d it mean to tour with Lauryn Hill? 

Talking about Hip-Hop, that’s someone else you can’t miss out of that list. She’s the GOAT. perform. Have you seen her perform? Touring with her was a learning process. I needed that time in my life because I wanted to learn quite a few things, and it really helped me. She’s a wonderful woman, and I’m thankful for that opportunity. 

How did that happen?

At first, she was working with someone that’s a friend to us, that suggested us. I don’t even know how it happened, to be honest with you. I just know I got a call from a friend: “Lauryn Hill wants you on the tour.” 

How excited were you?

Super excited. Super.

Were you nervous? 

No, not at all. 

Love your new song, “Higher.” Talk about recording this song. 

“Higher,” a thanks giving song. I live the life of a thanks giver. Everyday of my life is a blessing. Every day above ground is a blessing, so you have to give thanks. A song like “Higher” is an expression of how I feel, my everyday life. Which is giving thanks.

Love seeing your kids on your instagram, they’re so cute!

Thank you. I have two daughters, Wilmer and Welda. Just vibing. I just posted Welda online for the first time, because I try to put them around something iconic. Wilmer had an album around that [titled after her & released in 2019]. She inspired me to do so many, many great things around the album.

What can we expect from your album, World Best? Are you saying you’re the world best?

I am, all the people say I am. My friends call me World Best. If they say that’s who I am, then I am. Musically, I’m going to prove that. Just brace yourself for great music. Eargasm, that’s the feeling.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CqL4RjRIWNR/

How was it hanging out with Ludacris in Ghana? 

It was good. Shout out to Luda, I had a great time. Great energy, he’s a good guy. Family guy, family-oriented. Spent some time with him, it was good. The vibe we did, madness! 

How did you end up linking with him?

You know what, I was just chillin’ and someone called me. Two people called me. Somebody tried to reach us through my manager. The same friend that connected us to Lauryn Hill, was the same person who called me.

How often do you eat jollof rice? 

Always. It’s part of the culture. 

Best memory from doing “Tonight” with Popcaan?

The best memory was the video. We shot a video somewhere in London. Popcaan and I have been friends for a while, so we talk more often.  After the video, we went somewhere. He had jollof rice, and I had eba and egusi soup, so that was one moment that I can take from that. It’s good.

What do you need in the studio at all times? 

First of all, I need God’s presence, to make sure the environment is good and no evil spirit. I need my producer. Whenever I’ll be there, I just want the energy to be right. That’s all.

How did fatherhood change your life? 

If I was a good man, it has made me a better person. If I was good before, now I’m better.

How old are your kids? 

Wilmer will turn five on Sunday, on the 20th of August. Welda will be three in November. 

How are you going to celebrate her birthday? 

How she wants it. She already told me what she wants. Definitely make it up to her.

One thing you want people to get from World Best

If there’s one thing I want you to get from the album, just enjoy it. Enjoy it, because I enjoyed myself creating it. To be honest, just enjoy it. That’s all.

Would you like to do on your day off, when you’re not working? 

Play football [soccer].

Are you good? 

Super good. I thought I was going to be a football player.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Clj6yTbMU32/

How was it performing at FIFA? 

It was good. Been waiting for such moments. When the opportunity came, smashed it.

Any goals for yourself at this point in your career? 

Yeah, just touching lives. Nothing more. Service to humanity, being a blessing to people.

Anything else you want to let the people know? 

Big shout out to The Source. We give thanks to God for the profit and the loss. It could have been worse, but right now we’re chillin’ on The Source. We’re blessed.

Patoranking’s fourth studio album World Best is available now on all platforms.

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NPG Records And Paisley Park Enterprises Drop Unreleased Track “Cream(Take 2)”

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Today, NPG Records and Paisley Park Enterprises, in partnership with Sony Music Entertainment and Warner Records, releases “Cream (Take 2)”, a previously unheard recording from Prince’s legendary vault, taken from the upcoming expanded reissue of Prince & The New Power Generation’s 1991 classic Diamonds And Pearls, to be released on October 27th. 

This stunning sonic artifact provides a never-before-heard view into Prince’s creative process as he and the New Power Generation craft what eventually became a number one Billboard smash hit. Featuring inspired performances from drummer Michael Bland, bassist Sonny Thompson, keyboardist Tommy Barbarella, guitarist Levi Seacer, Jr. and percussionist Kirk Johnson, “Cream (Take 2)” sees Prince experimenting with alternative arrangements for the now-revered track – and offers the listener an opportunity to glimpse at the real-time experimentation of one of music’s great icons. 

Recorded at Paisley Park Studio A and engineered by Michael Koppelman and assisted by Tim Penn, “Cream (Take 2)” was mixed by GRAMMY-nominated Prince collaborator Chris James exclusively for this collection. 

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Stephen Marley Announces New ‘Old Soul’ LP To Debut In September

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His first full-length project since 2016, Stephen’s highly anticipated fifth solo album Old Soul comes as a complete revelation. With his well-earned reputation as a studio perfectionist, “Ragga” – as he’s known to friends and family – is a consummate live performer with a knack for spontaneity. Old Soul leans into those strengths, and opens up the artist as never before. 

Released earlier this summer, the retrospective music video for the album’s title track “Old Soul” features unseen family images and a montage of Jamaican musical heritage. A warm acoustic narrative, the song carries listeners through Stephen’s evolution, intertwined with the Marley legacy. Lyrics such as “April 1972, my mom and poppa brought me through,” give a nod to his lineage and early years. Originally penned by Jamaican artist Omi, Stephen adapted the song to reflect his personal journey, suggesting a familiarity with past life experiences. Echoing his father’s sentiments, Stephen’s core message promotes mental freedom and unity.

 

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Vybz Kartel Sparks International Collaboration w/ “Taxi Man,” ft. Camidoh, Miss LaFamilia & DJ Lara Fraser

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This is a true example of the power of collaboration.

In a refreshing blend of global talents, BET Award nominee Camidoh, dancehall maestro Vybz Kartel, UK’s rising star Miss LaFamilia, and award-winning DJ Lara Fraser unite for a sparkling new single titled “Taxi Man.” With production from UK’s famed Toddla T and Ghana’s Streetbeatz, the song perfectly merges dancehall and afrobeats, aiming to brighten up the last summer days.

“Taxi Man” thrives on iconic dancehall vibes, enriched by Camidoh’s R&B and afrobeats blend, harmonized by Miss LaFamilia’s alluring vocals, with Vybz Kartel cementing the track’s core with his signature touch. To complement the audio delight, an insightful portrait-style music video directed by Amane Akbaraly provides a backstage look into the artists’ day at Zap Studios in London’s Camberwell.

Vybz Kartel, the Jamaican dancehall powerhouse who already boasts of hits such as “Dull Colour,” continues to dominate the music scene this summer. Meanwhile, Miss LaFamilia’s recent “Harder” is gaining momentum as a UK summer favorite. Camidoh isn’t trailing behind either. Following his nominations at the BET Awards and The Headies, and the success of his debut project L.I.T.A, he’s marking his territory in the music industry. Together with DJ Lara Fraser, this ensemble promises an enchanting auditory experience with “Taxi Man.”

DJ Lara Fraser shared her enthusiasm for the song, highlighting it as a “feel-good summer vibe about love and loyalty.” Miss LaFamilia echoed the sentiment, noting the joy in creating the track, while Camidoh emphasized the honor of collaborating with a legend like Vybz Kartel.

In an industry where collaborations are frequent but not always impactful, “Taxi Man” stands out as a testament to what happens when diverse talents synergize. It’s more than just a song, it’s a celebration of music without borders.

Watch the music video for “Taxi Man” here!

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Venezuelan Drug Lord Gets Zipped Tied, Tossed Into Ocean

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A fugitive Venezuelan drug trafficker known as Taliban has been dumped alive in the ocean with his hands zip-tied and an anchor around his waist in revenge for stealing 450 pounds of cocaine and cash from a cartel.

In the shocking video shared online, Reinaldo Fuentes, 68, is seen with blood stains on the back of his head before his killers struggle to lift him over the side of a boat into the Caribbean Sea near Martinique. Fuentes is then dumped overboard and left to drown.

It was gathered that Fuentes, a middleman for the Venezuelan Clan del Cartel, earlier had dumped a shipment of narcotics worth $10 million at sea and fabricated a fake Coast Guard pursuit to explain not bringing the drugs back to his bosses and kept the cash.

He then went back out on the water to collect the cocaine, repackaged it, and took it to another Caribbean island.

Veteran journalism Rafael Tolentino revealed Monday on ‘Esto No Es Radio,’ a daily morning show in the Dominican Republic, that Fuentes obtained a fake national identification document that allowed him to live under the name of Miguel Fulcar in the Dominican Republic, making it impossible for him to be detected by authorities.

Fuentes allegedly controlled drug dealing in the Bonao neighborhood of Buenos Aires, where he picked up the ‘Taliban’ nickname due to illicit dealings with Middle Eastern drug traffickers.

Sources told Tolentino that Fuentes was murdered because he had been involved with stealing a multi-million-dollar cocaine shipment destined for Tortola, the largest of the British Virgin Islands.

Fuentes left his Dominican home and was lured to a cartel meeting at an unknown location on July 17. That is when he was kidnapped and dumped at sea later in the day.

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