Overall Grade/Rating: 9/10
Production: 9.6/10
Lyrics: 9/10
Melody: 9/10
Execution: 9/10
Subject Matter: 8.2/10
Replay Value: 10/10
Originality: 8/10
With the opening line, "I was built to lead a team, game it at the buzzer, winning circle, we don't f*ck with suckas" lets you know what time he's on and the stratosphere of where his confidence lies leading with a subtle arrogance that's needed to stand out and capture your ear right away.
The backbone of "Olympic 2020 Freestyle" lies in its exceptional production, featuring a lo-fi beat that sets the mood for the entire track. The choice of a lo-fi aesthetic adds a layer of authenticity, transporting the audience to the heart of the landscape where BeFlow's narrative unfolds. The beats are not just beats; they're a pulse, resonating with a palpable energy that's impossible to ignore.
What truly sets "Olympic 2020 Freestyle" apart is the use of hard-hitting drums that punctuate every verse, injecting an adrenaline rush into the listener's veins. BeFlow's strategic placement of these drum elements creates a sense of urgency and intensity, enhancing the overall impact of the song. The beats are meticulously crafted, demonstrating BeFlow's keen understanding of the genre and his commitment to pushing boundaries.
Lyrically, BeFlow proves himself as a wordsmith with a unique voice and an unapologetic attitude. "Olympic 2020 Freestyle" delves into the harsh realities of street life, offering listeners a glimpse into the artist's experiences and perspective. BeFlow's delivery is sharp and assertive, commanding attention with every bar. His storytelling ability is vivid, painting a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs faced in a concrete jungle with lines like "surviving in the trenches, but ain't have sh*t, got through hardship, gave a larger tip."
The track's overall production is a testament to BeFlow's artistic vision and dedication to creating an immersive sonic experience. "Olympic 2020 Freestyle" not only showcases his technical prowess but also highlights his ability to connect with his audience on a visceral level. The combination of the lo-fi beat, hard-hitting drums, and compelling lyrics make "Olympic 2020 Freestyle" a standout track that solidifies BeFlow's position as a force to be reckoned within the Hip Hop landscape -- "perhaps I have achieved a level they never will fathom is a fact."
In conclusion, BeFlow's "Olympic 2020 Freestyle" is a triumph in the world of Hip Hop, blending a nostalgic lo-fi vibe with contemporary energy. With this track, BeFlow cements his place as a rising star, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what he has in store for the future. "Olympic 2020 Freestyle" is more than a song; it's an experience that resonates with the streets and speaks to the soul of urban storytelling in Hip Hop.
Donny Block's style is an eclectic mix characterized as "something weird or experimental" but stays true to the essence of authentic hip-hop with lyrics that matter and subject matters that people can relate to and vibe with. He's not your "average rapper."
Block started writing music at around 15 years old but didn’t start recording until he met other musicians in high school. His creative process ranges from writing about things that happen in the typical day to day to more heavy concepts that hit the soul -- mainly issues that he "needs to get off his chest."
The beginnings of his career highlights influences like Mac Miller, Isaiah Rashad and Vince Staples but as he grew in experience and style, he became heavily inspired by the nuances of underground hip-hop and artists like King Krule, Mike, and Navy Blue among other underground hip hop artists. The sonic aspects of his music usually stem from traditional influences and topics but a great deal of it also leans toward more abstract and experimental sounds.
We have high hopes for Donny Block on his journey and look forward to big things in his future. His latest project is a sound collage/atmospheric project that is about the struggle and story of being lost in your 20s. He's also focused on sharpening his skills and crafting his pen to shoot to the top of hip-hop's royalty.
To hear more, listen here:
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/donnyblock/goober
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[Song]: Free Press
[Artist]: BeFlow
Overall Grade/Rating: 9/10
Production: 10/10
Lyrics: 9.7/10
Melody: 8/10
Execution: 9/10
Subject Matter: 8/10
Replay Value: 9/10
Originality: 9/10
Skip or Spin: Spin
The prolific Chicago rapper’s recent project features some of his heaviest hard-hitting production, sly wit, and clever lyricism to date.
Free Press makes it's entrance with pure grandiose. From the muttered intro that leaves listeners in anticipation to the monumental beat drop and drum rolls, we're put on notice that this track belongs in the vault of hip-hop's elite.
There's a spirit of renaissance that hollows over the single, a type of proclamation of BeFlow's lyrical ability that shows his fearlessness and brilliance like never before. His subtle vocal changes and inflections show him embracing the aspects of his vocal skills that are uniquely performed on the song.
Lines like "ask if they need real songs, they'll need more me" and "I will fall ever" demonstrates a level of confidence and self-approval all the while riding the beat effortlessly. On this track, we see BeFlow clearly marking his own territory and stamping out his own lane.
Perhaps the main gift of the song is captured in the meaning of the song's title, "Free Press for excuses given" - a bold declaration to the listeners.
The second verse takes on it's own feel -- replete with choppy lyrics that adds to the aesthetic alongside a raunchy tone -- a technique that's used by only the most prolific lyricists. BeFlow touches on a number of serious elements of society all the while staying relatable.
He remarks on topics that cover a wide spectrum from the "movement of feminists" to the "gunned niggas with innocence." "Free Press" makes a statement, line for line, no empty fillers, it's deep-rooted but still explores the experience of youth in today's time bringing up things like 'mental health' as well as the use of witty sports analogies, "this is how you market a star, ask Lavar'
"Free Press" is a signature timeless piece from BeFlow. Weighty material coupled with prodigious production. A moment of arrival.
Listen here:
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[Song]: Much More
[Artist]: BeFlow
Overall Grade/Rating: 8.5/10
Production: 8.5/10
Lyrics: 8.5/10
Melody: 8/10
Execution: 9/10
Subject Matter: 8/10
Replay Value: 9/10
Originality: 9/10
Skip or Spin: Spin
Straight from the beginning, "Much More" reeks of classic hip-hop: heavy bottom, deep baseline and a steady rhythmic hi-hat.
The dense and complex single is cautionary, theatrical, colorful, and at times sarcastic, but often all at once. Proclamations like "women want everything, therapy, better sex, I'll be an icon if I choose, refuse to lose" - a witty play on words as he connects two separate topics.
Like any artist who has a certain level of prestige as BeFlow does, he's greeted with high expectations as the stakes are even higher to deliver a flow that captivates -- and he obliges. "Much More" has the commercial potential backed with the depth of lyricism that makes it the perfect blend and a much needed mix of today and the sovereignty of hip-hop's glory days.
At times, the producer drops out the beat and allows the synths to just vibe and massage the listeners ears - the dramatics that sets itself apart from the long list of mediocre rappers and the monotony of their music.
"This song leave on replay, get much more gotta just keep straight" speaks facts. "Much More" is definitely the kind of song that you leave on repeat with BeFlow's slow, charismatic delivery sort of hypnotizes.
The song is jammed packed with so many lines that connects the dots to his versatile skills, it give you ample reason to stick around to listen to what point he'll hit next, "this means war, restrictions apply, legends never die."
Some of Beflow's best lines are elegantly arrogant and enemy-deflating ("Don't feel sorry when shit hit the fan, turn out to be your man"), but always filled with the dropping of wise gems. On "Much More," Beflow gives us room to breathe while carving out his space to shine and he shines through.
Listen here:
Overall Grade/Rating: 9/10
Production: 9/10
Lyrics: 8.5/10
Melody: 9/10
Execution: 9/10
Subject Matter: 8/10
Replay Value: 10/10
Originality: 9/10
Skip or Spin: Spin
From the very start, Saay Park's "Hobby" captivates with what seems to be reminiscent of a classic sample with voices layered on top of each other that add an undeniable richness to the track. "Hobby" overall boasts a mellow feel yet is equally elegant and beautifully emotive. The sample amplifies the catchiness of the production that smoothly breaks when Saay Park begins his verse.
The authenticity of his vocals ring out as he proclaims, "Tell me what you want from me" in a seductive way that the listener can't help but to believe his conviction. Saay Park meets his listeners with a bold artistic statement, "what I gotta do to make you love me... no need to take his slowly." He pleads his case in a way that commands yet is warm and intimate. He combines the heaviness of modern production with feel good vocals that makes "Hobby" the perfect blend of R&B.
He presents himself as not only a good vocalist but also a passionate songwriter that truly knows how to capture a voice. His uniqueness while staying true to the essence of R&B allows him to stand out among his peers while maintaining artistic integrity. Saay Park shows off both his extraordinary voice and his remarkable ability to turn basic phrases into impassioned declarations that makes his audience feel. "Hobby" is the song that establishes and declares his sweet spot... his place in between big sounds with catchy drums and melodic effects and delicate and smooth vocal.
"Hobby" is a part of his latest project, "While We Wait," which is truly worth the listen.
You can find it here:
https://open.spotify.com/album/1ToslNnDLw4ecsqYWLX7Nt
Find him on instagram, @saaypark:
]]>Overall Grade/Rating: 9/10
Production: 9.6/10
Lyrics: 9/10
Melody: 9/10
Execution: 9/10
Subject Matter: 8.2/10
Replay Value: 10/10
Originality: 8/10
Rarely these days do you hear a sound that captures the listener in the first second of playing... this is what Mike Sarge's 'No-Go' does in an effortless way.
The tone and commanding vocals has just the perfect tinge of the 'chopped and screwed' effect added that makes this intro an instant attention grabber. From there, Mike Sarge makes his presence known -- his energy and intensity is instantly felt from the start of the catchy chorus.
The passionate rapper’s debut single gives an honest and direct message about reality or lack thereof on top of production that forces you to nod your head in agreement. Mike Sarge gives voice to a large majority of people in today's climate who feel the same way but aren't skilled to vocalize it in the clever way that he does. Nonetheless his message resounds speaking to an entire generation as he exclaims "all that capping is a no-go."
Sarge rides the beat like a hungry artist who's waited his entire career for this exact moment to shine and he delivers. Unlike a vast majority of his peers, he paints a realistic picture of what he means to be hungry while maintaining the daily grind -- a relatability that is largely missing in hip-hop today. "Punching the clock, hitting the road, I go go like gadget," he raps with just enough conviction that makes you believe every word.
The breakdown after each verse slows the track down just enough to add versatility while simultaneously peaking your interest to see where it will go next as it lends the perfect build up back into the chorus.
At his best, Sarge straddles the line between his bravado and confident wit while finding the perfect balance between the two. Each verse packs the same high-powered energy and wordplay that assures the listeners he took no shortcuts. His punchlines are remarkable but what's more notable than the lines themselves is the stylish delivery and flow that makes him move lockstep with the best of the best.
He can be confidently vulnerable about his journey ("I'm the same guy, with the new vibe/Got the same heart, with the new mind") that fuels his passion to rap about his present.
Mike Sarge's, "No-Go" definitely has high replay value and gets our stamp of approval. To follow Mike Sarge, visit:
https://www.instagram.com/mike_sarge/
"No-Go" is available on all streaming platforms.
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Not every day do we get hip-hop artists who set a new flame in today's industry that can't be duplicated. Monti Korbelle is that. Standing solo in a lane carved out for him he announced his debut album, "Global Carbon Tax Economy."
This release could not come at a stronger time. It's politically-motivated nature makes the impact that we need. The musical depth of the project is noteworthy - featuring several vocalists and showcasing the various stylings of Korbelle's lyrical inspirations.
He dares to make a bold statement in a world where being politically incorrect is a taboo - he vividly proclaims his frustrations with "being bipartisan in an unpredictably polarized world." Music with meaning are rare gems in the current state of music - to be a musician who attempts to tackle these kinds of topics without any hesitation and pure authenticity puts Korbelle above his peers.
No stranger to making music, Korbelle rebranded himself after releasing several successful projects under the moniker Capricanno. "Global Carbon Tax Economy" is the world's introduction to the new performer - the new voice - Monti Korbelle.
Politics is the motivating factor for this release, he states, "as an American, I've noticed that politics in the US have been objectively crazy since the 2016 election. It is hard for me to not look away from the spectacle, but it's even more difficult to choose a side as many close to me have.” A subject, like the rest of the world, incites intense feelings in Korbelle that he does a powerful job at revealing through the gift of music. Not taking either side fully, he's able to bring the ideologies of both political parties in a way that intrigues a vast spectrum of listeners.
The epic and expressive sound created by Monti Korbelle comes from own vision alongside a collaboration of vocalists -- Esvi, Dora Pereli, Oh Well, Kayego, Jonny.II.X, Jemma, King Marino, Carson, and Bancsquiat.
"Global Carbon Tax Economy" is more than a song - it's a body of art - a statement and it's available now on Soundcloud, Apple Music and Spotify. To keep up with the artist that is Monti Korbelle, visit:
Hailing from Southwest Georgia and growing up in a strong faith-based family, his roots make him breathe life into his soulful pieces. Although he is a true craftsmen of R&B and soul, he knows no limits -- Léon's multi-octave vocal range reminscent of the legendary greats such as Prince, Stevie Wonder among others, allows him to effortlessly execute various musical styles and a range of genres.
Now is the time for us to experience an artist like Timothy Léon.
One who buries his soul deep within the essence of his work and births timeless music that will last us a lifetime. An artist that transcends time in an industry full of lackluster carbon copies and disposable artistry. We look forward to his musical journey and anticipate nothing but greatness.
Currently his latest piece, "You" is now streaming everywhere and is available to watch on Youtube.
Keep up with Timothy Léon here:
http://instagram.com/iamtimothyleon
R&B is somewhat overlooked in the grand scheme of the industry, despite having such an impressive 2019. So it's great to see an artist like you represent the genre in these major categories.
Her response was:
'R&B has always been about raw emotion, and I think the authenticity of it was missing. It was never dead -- we always listen to the classics that will remain timeless -- but we forgot what it meant to make [music] with real emotion that's inspired by rhythm-and-blues and soul. We've gotten back to our roots and real instrumentation on records. I did my own Lights On Festival last September and we literally sold it out in about 20 minutes. There were 14,000 all there to see R&B artists like Lucky Daye, Jhene Aiko, Summer Walker, Daniel Caesar and Ari Lennox. People were there to really feel the music, so I'm glad that authenticity is coming back. We're starting to see through the fluff and manufactured sound.'
There is a shift happening in the musical landscape and we at I Am The Industry are glad to be a part of it.
]]>What do you get when you blend rock with a classical twist? You get Melissa Harrison, a Kent based alternative pianist who۪s carving out her own lane in the music industry.
Her unique style puts her in a league of her own particularly, in an industry devoid of true musicianship, her authenticity bleeds out and her passion rains through.
She has been able to cultivate her gift of piano since the tender age of six when her fascination with the instrument got the best of her, in her own words she says it captured my imagination. Her life without the piano would be completely different. Not only is it her purpose but it is also her life long passion. The presence that music has played in her life is phenomenal it۪s shaped her mind, direction and inspirations. Being able to develop her skills at a young age has allowed her to stand out among the rest and has also given her the power to freely create without any rules or regulations.
Melissa is truly experimental artist in every sense of the word. Her music is encompassed by true creativity and originality, she states I just play whatever I actually feel and my imagination just takes over like wild fire. A rare skill to be able to create genuinely phenomenal pieces strictly from your own imagination.
Melissa is needed. In a mundane industry, we need a sense of freshness. But not just freshness alone, she۪s been able to blend both the traditional classicism of piano with modern vibes. A thing that should not be taken lightly. Taking the risk of blending traditionalism with new age feels is not a risk most would be brave enough to do but is one that she۪s willing to take and it۪s paying off.
She strives to touch the souls of her listeners and provide a connection deeper than just music, she wants to change the world and make a difference. From her remarkable perspective, she believes music is a universal language that can captivate the hearts of a nation as they feel that pain or power the artist had when they were writing the piece. Her journey is one that we have the utmost anticipation for and one that we believe in.
Her latest single Remember Me۪ is a dark rock Fantasia single, which takes you on a haunting and nostalgic journey of lost love. It is described as an epic piano experience_ a story based on lucid dreams. Inspired by modern classical artist Ludovico Einaudi, this track dives you in with a heavy rock anthem whirlwind of energy and magnetic performance.
She۪ll also be releasing an official music video for Remember Me as well as planning a live show.
To keep up with Melissa, follow her here: https://www.instagram.com/melissaharrisonofficial_/
]]>The world is drowning in brands. There are 28 millions small businesses in the United States and millions more if we count personal brands. The world is a saturted market and in order to compete you have to stand out.
And how do you do so:
Your brand must be original. Being a duplicate will not result in you being a leader in your category or even a true option. Your message won't resonate and consumers won't respect you. People value exclusivity.
As the saying goes, no risk, no reward. You want to give a message that most people are afraid or don't have the voice to give. The boldest brands aren't afraid to implement innovation and experimentation into their essence.
Powerful stories evoke emotion that generate brand loyalty in unexpected and lasting ways. Stories humanize your brand and give your tribe something to hold onto and draw a connection to in their own lives.
Commit to making a genuine connection with your tribe. Make a difference. People are attracted to positivity and depth. Be disruptive, challenging, revolutionary, make an impact and your audience will follow you. Most people still want to be a part of the greater good, let your brand do so.
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Hip-hop, soul artist, Anderson Paak has taken the music world by storm. His road to fame while seeming like an overnight success was a long, hard one.
With the lyrical skills of a top-notch rapper, along with the soulful vocals reminiscent of a 60's legend, Anderson Paak is unlike any other. He's risky, dazzling and inventive persona teaches us a few things about standing on your own a part from outside opinions. His actions are a recipe for branding greatness.
Here's what we learned:
In a hip-hop world full of duplicates and redundant trap and mumble rappers, Anderson Paak chose to be an actual lyricist and incorporate live instruments into his music.
Always keep in mind, in order to stand out as a brand you have to make a bold statement.
Remember, you want your brand or product to elicit a powerful reaction from a strong message. Don't let your inhibitions win.
Oftentimes, record labels and executives force artists to relinquish their creative freedom for dollars. Their sole focus is to make money off creating you to be a duplicate of what already makes money. Anderson Paak was unwilling to compromise his identity while pressured to do so. He recalls, They wanted me to make Lil Jon crunk stuff. _ I didn۪t want to be that guy that was just chasing sounds.
He didn۪t. By staying true to himself, he has made himself a much needed cultural force.
Don't dilute or compromise your identity. Your tribe wants authenticity.
The funk. The soul. The spectacular lyrics over gorgeous melodies.Everything that puts .Paak in a lane of his own The hip-hop bars. The funk. The soul. The flow. The phenomenal melodies over spectacular production put Anderson Paak in a lane of his own. He crafted his own fusion of every genre under the sun and ended up with a cultish fanbase. He took pieces of different elements and reconfigured them to make it is own. And it was purposeful.
Greatness means refusing to follow the crowd.
]]>Cooper Phillip, the Russian born, Los Angeles based singer has been consistently captivating the music world for the past few years. Her meteoric rise in popularity and notoriety is astonishing and yet is so deserved. Standing in a league of her own, the singer pours sultry, soulful vocals on top of pop, infectious beats that hypnotizes her listeners and keeps them wanting more.
"Low Key" her latest release is quite frankly a 'must-hear.' The production on the track is refreshing - featuring a blend of electronic dance drums and an urban vibe complete with a compelling kick drum that pushes the song forward and keeps our ears avidly tuned in. "Low Key" is a merge of hard pop electronics with a touch of R&B giving it it's own unique feel. Cooper's vocal delivery is as fierce as it always is and every lyrics is full of conviction that makes us believe every word she sings.
Cooper has recruited some heavy-hitters for this release. The music video for "Low Key" is set to release in July and features a celebrity actor who has yet to be named. The true excitement is that we get to see Cooper in rare form as she will be dancing in the video and performing choreography by the renowned, G Madison, who is a choreographer for Mariah Carey.
Aside from music, Cooper has delved into other realm of creativity. As the consummate singer and professional she is, she has expanded her talents and has begun teaching master classes internationally, which features her original breathing technique, called Biophinics. In less than a year and close to one thousand students later, she has not only helped other singers but also has helped those suffering from conditions like asthma and stuttering to experience 100% improvement.
Cooper Phillip continues to build a phenomenal brand and prove that her talent is wholly undeniable. She's written an album full of material and will be giving us a new release every month, she never stops working! Be sure to listen to "Low Key" and check out the video when it is released. We look forward to the spectacular endeavors Cooper continues to gift us!
Follow her journey on Instagram, @cooperphillip.
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Overall Grade/Rating: 8.6/10
Production: 8.5/10
Lyrics: 8/10
Melody: 9/10
Execution: 9/10
Subject Matter: 8/10
Replay Value: 9/10
Originality: 9/10
Skip or Spin: Spin
Raw vocals, passionate lyrics, beautiful harmonies, and hypnotizing production are the first things that come to mind when you first hear '#1 Fan' from rising R&B songstress, Eileen. Nostalgia seeps in and #1 Fan makes you reminiscent of the 90s, the glory days of R&B, when the genre felt authentic and pure.
Throughout#1 Fan, Eileen explores the spectrum of vocal range and stylistic techniques that make the emotions captured in the song ring out. Her sensual yet equally punchy delivery flows smoothly over the hard-hitting drums, resounding claps and enigmatic synths that make the composition an overall success. Her vocals ooze sincere passion and yearning for her man who she professes "will be her #1 fan" once she dances for him. Eileen paints an alluring picture in the minds of the listener who relate to the story in their own lives.
#1 Fan is sexy. It's genuine and seductive vocals ("Now don't be naive/I'm twice as bad and you can have what you see) coupled with the swirls of enigmatic synths let you know that you're in for a real ride. Vocally, Eileen is as open and vulnerable. There aren't many artists in R&B that are executing at the level that Eileen is on #1 Fan. With each passing metaphor, you feel more and more drawn by the lyrics until you start to think of yourself as one of the characters in the piece.
Eileen's performance is remarkable. A breath of fresh air that advocates the beautiful nature of free love and sensuality, topped with a touch of classiness that sets it a bar above the rest. In today's climate, #1 Fan is in a league of its own. We look forward to seeing what more Eileen has in store as she currently works on a 5-song EP, titled "Redemption" slated to be released in June and produced by Eidall Music.
Also, be sure to follow her promising journey on twitter @eileen_isrnb or on facebook @eileenisrnb.
]]>Edge, newness, pizzazz are all words to describe how Melissa Harrison transforms the classical piano into a force of beauty and vivacity in this music world that desperately needs it.
In a music industry, that lacks artistic integrity, skill and musicianship, Harrison is a breath of fresh air. Her stage aura is one that captivates and puts you in a stupor as she strikes each key and plays each chord with a confidence that mesmerizes.
She illuminates on camera, playing with dramatic flair, sparking viewers interest while tempting them to learn: Just who is this extraordinary pianist?
It won't be long before Melissa Harrison makes the mainstream remember just how important classical piano is to the soul of music. She's providing a new pulse to an art that deserves its' just due while she, in her own words, "slays the piano."
Combining energetic performance with raw talent, Melissa Harrison is paving the way as an influential musician and establishing a growing classical/contemporary niche in the music industry. As a new artist, Melissa Harrison continues to captivate new listeners with her fierce passion, and unique way of revolutionizing the musical language of classical music, making it more appealing to modern audiences. In her debut release this May, she is covering the piece A Thousand Years۪ by Cristina Perri in a classical/pop style, which truly lets her true colors and personality flourish into her music.
I Am The Industry caught up with Melissa to get a personal perspective and to hear what excitement is next:
My main influences I would say are Ludovico Einaudi and Tokio Myers. Myers really inspired me as artist from young, showing how music has no limitation or box, and that classical music is still relevant, embracing both old and new styles.
I discovered the piano when I was 5 years old. It instantly captivated my imagination. I was classically trained but as I developed my skills, I soon found a strong desire to make classical music more modern and intriguing for all audiences by combining it with pop/rock. I have another cover song release, 'Video Games' by Lana Del Rey, which has a fierce pop/ rock edge.
My music style is mainly pop/classical. I plan to release some other cover songs and some original work soon, which has a much darker edge. My piece 'Remember Me' has a gothic, rock, classical vibe whereas 'A Thousand Years' has a more upbeat and lighter vibe. I look forward to embracing both sides of myself as an artist with my audience.
As a new-age, classical pianist, I have been in collaboration with different artists, singer-songwriters and rappers and also learning how to connect with modern audiences and embrace my versatility. I also have been writing a film piece for 'Don't Blame Jack,' which will be out this October. I have a poignant and nostalgic classically-driven piece called 'Lonely Hearts Club in the style of Hanz Zimmer but for now I am very excited to be releasing my debut track 'A Thousand Years' set for release the 26th of May this year.
We look forward to what ferocity Melissa Harrison will bring this upcoming year to the music industry. She is headed in the direction of greatness! Follow her journey on Instagram, http://melissaharrisonofficial_!
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Overall Grade/Rating: 8.4/10
Production: 8.5/10
Lyrics: 8.5/10
Melody: 7/10
Execution: 9/10
Subject Matter: 8/10
Replay Value: 9/10
Originality: 9/10
Skip or Spin: Spin
A rapper, lyricist, and vocalist, the Chicago native BeFlow puts all of his diverse talents to work on his single, "Stardom" that is a bold, influential artistic statement.
Immediately upon turning "Stardom" on, you are hit with a certain suspense. The dramatic opening of cackling sounds in front of the eerie echo, smoothly leads you to the hard-hitting beat drop for a perfect introduction.
The mellow feel of the track is contrasted by the depth of his impactful lyrics speaking on the issues and cultural climate affecting impoverished minorities. "Life never seemed so important, foolish kids/ Section 8 he residing, his dad doing bids" speaks to the hearts of many that relate to the struggle of growing up in urban, low-income and often crime-ridden neighborhoods.
In "Stardom," BeFlow is a showman that exhales his words with a calculated, almost suspicious confidence. He seamlessly transitions between topics like romance, his own bravado, life in general as well as societal issues which makes this track a well-balanced demonstration of his lyrical skill.
BeFlow is consistently thought-provoking. He is content to capture a mood while making "Stardom" a work of art that places high emphasis on clever lyrics and one-of-a-kind flow that captures the energy of the 90's boom bap culture. Overall, "Stardom" is more than just a song, it's a story and as soon as you get comfortable with one topic, BeFlow launches rhythmic grenades that keeps you hanging on.
The Chicago artist continues to cultivate his own lane in a hip-hop industry filled with mediocrity and duplicates and subpar lyricists. His contribution to the culture is duly noted and will almost certainly lead to his glorious chance at "Stardom."
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Overall Grade/Rating: 8/10
Production: 7.5/10
Lyrics: 8/10
Melody: 7/10
Execution: 9/10
Subject Matter: 7/10
Replay Value: 9/10
Originality: 9/10
Skip or Spin: Spin
With no time wasted, Saay Park's Twisted has an energy that pulls you right in. Ironically, as the title of the song states, the poppy, upbeat production driven by insistent synths does indeed take you on a 'Twisted,' sensual ride.
A song like Twisted centers around a simple melody and Park's pulsing electric drums, creating a hypnotizing aura over the course of the song as the melody lodges itself in your brain. The R&B upstart, Saay Park has fully mastered what it takes to entice his listeners through storytelling and creating a sense of suspense, as he glides through his lyrics telling his subject, "Tell me that you love me baby, tell me that you love me baby, tell me that you love me baby..." each time enhancing his conviction.
Because the production and vocal style is anything but generic, we get to experience the airy, sensual and lazily cool flow and inflections that may potentially become his signature sound.
The tantalizing rhythm, bouncy percussion allows it to compete with while separating it from the vast majority of club-oriented R&B. Saay Park cooly breaks the rules of what a fusion of R&B, pop and a tad of electronic-dance looks like leaving us to anxiously want more.
Check out the single below:
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Overall Grade/Rating: 8.9/10
Production: 9/10
Lyrics: 9/10
Melody: 9/10
Execution: 10/10
Subject Matter: 8/10
Replay Value: 9/10
Originality: 8/10
Skip or Spin: Spin
From the moment Waltz In The Dark begins, up until the second it ends, Matt Nakoa captivates and draws you into a whirlwind of passion and beauty.
The smooth, soothing tone of his vocals united with the slight raunch embodies the magic of falling in love that rings true throughout the piece. Nakoa paints a picture for the listeners that feels effortless - a beautiful canvas full of tranquility made complete with the one you love.
What's strongest about Waltz In The Dark is the execution and authenticity of Nakoa's vocals that lead you to wholeheartedly believe that each and every lyric comes from a real place in time. It is pure. It is honest.
As he proclaims, "There's nothing I'd rather do than to waltz in the dark with you..." the background fades away triggering a lucent image of two stargazing lovers to fill your imagination.
The polished production features a magnetizing guitar melody, crisp drums and a spellbinding bass that gives the song it's crisp, clean sound while taking you on an alluring journey. Nakoa's emotional openness and vulnerable reflection are admirable, and his technical skill is purely undeniable.
Matt Nakoa's exceptionally versatile vocals add purity, depth and texture to every lyric that leaves him. Waltz In The Dark captures your attention and moves you -- and in its' stillness, at the core, is something deep and powerful.
Listen below!
]]>Nipsey Hussle would go on to have one of the most impressive independent runs in hip-hop history that cumulated with the release of Victory Lap in February 2018.
It would be his only album. Thirteen months after Victory Lap was released, Nipsey Hussle would be shot and killed in Hyde Park, Los Angeles.
A renowned artist, independent music pioneer, investor, revolutionary - he will be sorely missed.
His legacy will live on.
]]>Hailing from McKeesport Pennsylvania, and destined to make it big time, Braemere Arik is your next great artist.
The rapper's roots in hip-hop, R&B, and classic slow jams, made have the perfect transition into his own as a new age rap/sing artist. Taking both his music and his business into his own hands, he is the CEO of his own Record Company called Only Speak Real Records.
His journey into music first came about at the tender age of 7, when Braemere Arik was dubbed B-Money, a name further alluding to his future business acumen. It's when he turned 18, however that is passion began to take a strong hold recording music and becoming the ultimate freestyler among his peers. Unlike most artists, he honed his skills to compete with the best and it's evident.
One of his rituals include listening to his favorite artists to gain the confidence and inspiration to start his own creative process. Braemere Arik's influences include hip-hop heavyweights like J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Jay-Z, Tupac and many more. His R&B influence allows him to add a smoothness and melodic feel to his repertoire standing out among the rest. In his own words, his style his best describes as "creative flows mixed with meaningful lyrics." His music wreaks of great storytelling with R&B melodic moments of his life as a young black male poverty stricken yet well-known. To perfect his art and widen his appeal, he implements a mix of old school and new school hip hop.
We expect to see great things from Braemere Arik in the upcoming year. His goals include being signed to Roc Nation, releasing an album and going on tour.
Follow his journey on instagram @braemerearik!
]]>In times like today, we need artists who are authentic, who don't mind bearing their souls in their lyrics and who can touch your spirit in a way that allows you to overcome the hardships that life brings. Chris D. Staples delivers and he does with conviction. Each of his songs is a piece of his heart turned into a melody, chorus and culminating as a song. He has perfectly mastered the blend between country and pop and offers a grand statement of purpose in his song Miracle.
This is the sound of an divine messenger sent to deliver the message of hope and love. He also pursues his purpose and gives that same message in the capacity of being a school teacher. His modesty is the key to his very appeal, an artist created not for the moment but for the long haul. With much anticipation and intrigue, we expect Chris D. Staples to have a breakthrough year in music and you can continue to follow his journey,@chrisdstaplesmusic_!
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