Grammy winning, multi-platinum selling superstar Ciara has released her new single “Run It Up” featuring BossMan Dlow via her very own label, Beauty Marks Entertainment. Written by Ciara, Theron Thomas, and Courtlin Jabrae, and produced by JR Rotem, The song is an anthemic club banger that amplifies the idea of Leveling Up.
Of the song Ciara states, “Run It Up is about staying focused on the hustle and grind to achieve your dreams while remaining unbothered and blessed.”
Bossman Dlow adds, “She’s the greatest, run that sack up crazy.”
The track arrives in the midst of the critically acclaimed OUT OF THIS WORLD Tour – Missy Elliott’s first ever headline tour, joined by Ciara, Busta Rhymes, and special guest Timbaland. The tour will hit Newark, NJ at the Prudential Center tonight, before concluding later this month on August 22, in Rosemont, IL.
Multi-platinum, 12-time Grammy Award-winner John Legend today announced that he will release My Favorite Dream, an album of sing-alongs and lullabies for children and families, via Republic Records: Kids & Family on August 30.
Produced by singer-songwriter-multi-instrumentalist Sufjan Stevens, the project features nine original tracks written by Legend. As part of a collaboration with Fisher-Price, the album also includes three bonus tracks with covers of songs from their beloved toys. In conjunction with the album announcement, Legend shared the lead single from the project titled “L-O-V-E.” The bright, up-tempo anthem, featuring his wife (Chrissy Teigen) and two oldest children (Luna and Miles Stephens) on backing vocals, with single artwork created by Luna.
“I’m right in the thick of fatherhood,” says Legend, father of daughter Luna (8), son Miles (6) and two toddlers, daughter Esti and son Wren. “My parents loved to sing around the house, making up bedtime songs for us and songs to motivate and inspire us. And Chrissy and I also love singing to our kids. We make up little jingles and ditties for them all the time. In our home, music is very important to the way we interact and communicate with them.”
And that’s what sparked My Favorite Dream. At his wife’s suggestion, Legend played his own interpretation of one of his babies’ favorite songs, “Maybe” — the hit single about a Purple Monkey in a Bubblegum Tree from the award-winning Fisher-Price Kick & Play Piano Gym. Teigen and Legend later shared a video of him serenading their daughter Esti at the family piano. The heartfelt moment inspired fans to encourage Legend to release an album of children’s songs and lullabies.
“Once I started thinking about it, I decided I wanted to write a whole new children’s album,” recalls Legend. “I just took it on as a challenge to write some original lullabies and children’s songs that I would want my kids to hear, something we could share with kids and parents all over the world.”
Regarding the album’s lead single “L-O-V-E,” Legend said, “Love is the central theme in so much of my life from family to music to philanthropic work to everything I do in business,” he adds. “This song captures the spirit of what I always wanted this album to be. I wrote it as an anthem to celebrate our common humanity and bring a smile to people’s faces. I hope this song is uplifting and inspiring for everyone.”
On this day 51 years ago (August 11, 1973), Kool Herc threw his legendary back-to-school basement party, which would go on to create the foundation for Hip-Hop music through the “breakbeat” DJ technique he used to keep the party rocking. Many aspiring emcees at the time paired ‘the break’ with the rhymes flowing through their minds, jumpstarting a sound and movement now considered the most popular genre in music; Hip Hop.
Many are familiar with the story of the 1520 Sedgewick Avenue Recreation Center and how Jamaican-born Herc attracted the youth from the community and other boroughs that had already made names for themselves in other aspects of the culture (B-Boying, Graffiti, and MCing). The climate in NYC has often been omitted from history, where the city was on the brink of bankruptcy while crime and “white flight” was at an all-time high. These were the circumstances in which the culture of Hip Hop was born and thrived throughout the city for about a decade before it became recognized by the mainstream.
Salute to the pioneers of the era, such as Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, Coke La Rock, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, The Funky Four Plus 1 More, The Magnificent Seven, and a host of others who were there at the foundation. Thank you for giving us what we can document now as Hip Hop history!
On this day in hip-hop history 25 years ago, the management company and label imprint Violator released their first compilation album, entitled Violator: The Album. Showcasing the management team’s star-studded talent roster, this album is full of rarities, making it a must-have for any self-proclaimed “Hip Hop head.”
For those out of the loop, Violator was a multi-dimensional entertainment conglomerate run by Chris Lighty until his untimely passing on August 30, 2012. Thriving mainly from 1999 to the early 2000s, Violator represented some of Hip Hop’s most known titans including Mariah Carey, Busta Rhymes, Q-Tip, Missy Elliot, Nas, Mya, 50 Cent, Mobb Deep and LL Cool J to name a few.
Violator: The Album was the first release from Violator Records, in collaboration with Def Jam. Due to Chris Lighty and Violator’s expansive resources, this album was jam-packed with talent from all sides of Hip Hop. With production handled by The Beatnuts, DJ Scratch, Diamond D, Havoc, Q-Tip, and Swizz Beatz, it is hard to dispute that this album is not one of the best-produced projects of 1999; and, as prolific as the production team for this album may be, it still in no way outshines the artist performances. With features from Busta Rhymes, LL Cool J, Mobb Deep, Ja Rule, Hot Boys, Noreaga, Fat Joe, Big Pun, 8Ball, and Cam’ron, this album can be considered one of the best-orchestrated compilation tapes to date.
Commercially, the album was quite successful, peaking at #8 on the Billboard 200 chart and #1 on the Top R&B/Hip Hop chart. The project sold very well and was certified gold within one month of its release.
Regardless of its sales or star roster, what makes this album a piece of Hip Hop history is the first single released from the project,A Tribe Called Quest’s Q-Tip’s solo debut. “Vivrant Thing,” which peaked at #26 on the Billboard Hot 100 was released in promotion for Q-Tip’s debut solo LP Amplified. This track marked the evolution of Q-Tip’s career, marking his transition to independence.
Following the success of this album, Violator went on to release a sequel two years prior. Violator: The Album 2.0 had a similar response but failed to be as popular as its predecessor.
On this date in 1984, the Kings from Queens released their first self-titled album on Def Jam Recordings under Rush Management.
This monumental album put Daryl McDaniels (DMC), Joseph Simmons (DJ Run), and Jason Mizell (Jam Master Jay) on the map, and launched one of the most successful careers Hip-Hop has ever seen.
With songs like “Sucker MCs,” “It’s Like That,” “Hard Times” and “Rock Box,” the record was an accurate reflection of the lives of three ambitious kids from Hollis, Queens in New York City in a time before the crack epidemic.
Simmons and McDaniels used to hang around Two-Fifths Park in Hollis in late 1980, hoping to rap for the local DJs who performed and competed there. The most popular one just happened to be Mizell, then known as “Jazzy Jase” because of his flashy wardrobe and b-boy attitude. Eventually, Simmons and McDaniels rapped in front of Mizell at the park, and the rest is history.
As a group, they soon strapped on a pair of Adidas, threw on a rope chain and topped it off with a Kangol hat. Little did they know, they were crafting a signature style, one that has stood the test of time and is widely recognized around the world.
Run-D.M.C. went on to release six more albums, including 1985’s King of Rock and 1986’s Raising Hell. Tragically, Mizell was gunned down on October 30, 2002, at his recording studio in Queens. Countless fans left Adidas sneakers, albums and flowers for the legendary DJ outside of the studio, where the murder occurred. The homicide has yet to be solved.
Run-D.M.C. was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2009, making them one of only two Hip Hop acts given that honor at the time.
Grammy Award-winning artist, producer, songwriter, entrepreneur and global cultural icon T-Pain has released a 3D-animated video for his latest single, “On This Hill.” The song about self-love and standing up for yourself, which showcases the innovative artist’s powerful vocals and dynamic voice, was animated by T-Pain himself after he recently taught himself how to use Blender 3D animation software.
“The ‘On This Hill’ performance video was a fun jam session so I decided to kick it up a notch and get a choir together to help me bring this 3D vision to life,” said the 30-year-old Tallahasseean. “It was a huge undertaking, and I faced a few technical difficulties along the way, but I was able to edit this while on tour and I’m pretty happy with how it turned out.”
Multi-award-winning Ghanaian artist Stonebwoy, known for his dynamic fusion of Afrobeats, dancehall, and reggae, continues his musical journey with the release of his latest single, “Pray for Me,” featuring the legendary Haitian-American artist Wyclef Jean. The track, produced by the acclaimed Sammy Soso (known for Tyla’s “Water”), marks a powerful and spiritual collaboration that underscores the importance of persistence and resilience.
As Stonebwoy nears the release of his highly anticipated sixth studio album, this soulful offering showcases his ability to blend deep, introspective lyrics with captivating melodies. “Pray for Me” serves as a testament to his growth as an artist and his unwavering commitment to creating music that resonates with listeners on a profound level.
Stonebwoy’s collaboration with Wyclef Jean is a natural fit, as both artists share a deep connection to their cultural roots and a passion for using music as a vehicle for change. “Pray for Me” weaves together elements of Afrobeats, reggae, and spiritual sounds, creating a sonic experience that is both uplifting and reflective.
“I wanted to create a song that speaks to the struggles we all face, and the importance of keeping faith even in the darkest times,” says Stonebwoy. “Working with Wyclef on this track has been an incredible experience. His energy and vision brought a new dimension to the song.”
Today, multi-platinum rapper Kodak Black unveils a hard-hitting and hypnotic new single and music video entitled “Hit Stick.”
A cinematic string sample swoons in and out of focus over the track’s tense beat and loose bass line, setting the tone. Off the rip, Kodak’s signature delivery instantly transfixes as his woozy flow practically snakes through the production. His charisma, cleverness, paranoia, emotion, and energy charge up “Hit Stick,” giving it a fascinating element of complexity and affirming him as the culture’s most enigmatic presence once again.
He kickstarted the summer with his record label Vulture Love’s first official project, Vulture Love Presents: The Last Zombies On Earth. Beyond generating millions of streams, it received tastemaker acclaim. XXL& The Source plugged it, and HotNewHipHop praised, “where this debut album succeeds is giving these up-and-coming artists a great platform to make their voices hard.” He then later followed up the compilation with a sold-out show at LA’s NOVO.
Alongside Kodak, the label compilation boasts contributions from VVSNCE, Lil Crix, G6reddot, GorditoFlo, Big Fredo, Jay Dirty, Taji Akeil, Project Pooh, NFL Tuewop, Jit4 Stan, Yung Mula, and JME Tmoe. Production credits include SkipOnDaBeat, ATL Jacob, Xairr, Dr. Zuez, Ayo B, and more. In short, the talent on display on Vulture Love Presents: The Last Zombies On Earth is nothing short of show-stopping. Listen HERE.
Following the success of his recent Hot 100 hit “Tough” with Lana Del Rey, GRAMMY nominated artist Quavo (Quality Control Music/Motown Records) is back with another impressive release, “FLY.” This single offers a fresh take on Lenny Kravitz’s classic 1998 track, enhanced by Quavo’s distinctive style and melody. Quavo’s lyrics, “Flyest in the room, who Flyer than you? / Flyest in the room, you just past the moon?” are complemented by Kravitz’s newly recorded vocals, bringing a renewed energy to the song.
The accompanying video, directed by Jake Nava, showcases Quavo and Kravitz as a dynamic duo, delivering a captivating performance. Their synergy is palpable, creating an electrifying atmosphere that translates through both the music and visuals. Quavo and Kravitz’s collaboration follows their connection earlier this year when Quavo honored Kravitz at the BMC dinner. Kravitz, a celebrated rockstar, continues to make waves in the industry with his latest album, *Blue Electric Light*, released earlier this year.
Earlier this month, Quavo released “Tough,” a pop-infused track with Lana Del Rey. The song, which explores new musical territories for both artists, has been well-received by major outlets like Rolling Stone, Complex, and Billboard. Currently, “Tough” is holding strong at No. 61 on the Billboard Hot 100. Quavo also made headlines in Atlanta recently when he appeared alongside Vice President Harris at a rally, supporting her stance on gun control and endorsing her run for the presidency. Quavo’s new white cognac, White X, created in partnership with Sazerac, makes a cameo in the video upon the brand’s nationwide launch. Quavo’s latest foray into the spirits industry is just another step for him to become one of music’s preeminent entrepreneurs.
Grammy® Award-Nominated, chart-topping, global superstar Spice,is heating up the Summer as she unveils the arrival of her highly anticipated third studio album, ‘Mirror 25’ releasing today, Friday, August 9, 2024 via Spice Official Entertainment with distribution through Empire. The chart-topping album debuts as the #1 album on Reggae iTunes chart, #2 in the USA and UK all genres, #1 in Israel all genres, and #3 in Canada for all genres charts, within just minutes after its release–debuting as the highest charting album for a Jamaican artist on iTunes this era!
Executive produced by Spice, ‘Mirror 25’ is an iconic 25 trackalbum showcasing Spice’s legendary sound infused with a unique kaleidoscope of rhythmic tracks intertwined with a melting pot of genres; further reinforcing the powerhouse performer’s signature influence in the genre of Reggae/Dancehall and beyond; cementing her presence as one Jamaica’s most versatile and creative artists of today’s time.
Across 25 tracks, ‘Mirror 25’ is a unique body of work serving as Spice’s raw, open diary of her past trials and tribulations– with each track revealing a vulnerable part of her life. The album title, ‘Mirror 25’ symbolizes reflection and self-discovery, marking a new era for Spice to artistically showcase her growing pains and lessons learned as an artist and as a woman.
Spice’s previous singles from her ‘Mirror 25’ album–“Gangster”featuring Chronic Law, and her empowerment anthem,“Ex Boyfriend,” were well received; along with her controversial single, ‘2085 Tea’ followed by her breakout hit,‘Round Round,’ the infectious party anthemfeaturing12-time Grammy® Award-Nominated Rapper, Busta Rhymes; with both reaching #1 on iTunes Reggae charts.
