Hip Hop and Hoops: Shaquille O’Neal x Damian Lillard collide in Reebok x Adidas 'Damenosis' Collab

Reebok and Adidas have confirmed the official release of their highly anticipated “Damenosis” collaboration, bringing together the worlds of hip hop and basketball through icons Shaquille O’Neal and Damian Lillard. “Damenosis” drops with two narrative footwear models: Reebok’s Shaqnosis and Adidas Dame 7 EXPLY “Damenosis”, launching globally beginning October 19 from Reebok.com and adidas.com respectively, and select local retailers. 

Following the brother brands’ summer 2020 hoops collaboration that brought together legendary guards Allen Iverson and James Harden, Reebok and Adidas basketball have partnered once again, this time to honor icons Shaquille O’Neal and Damian Lillard, two basketball icons who share a love for music and creative expression.

Adidas Dame 7 EXPLY basketball sneaker draws inspiration from Lillard's on-court and off-court passions. Each sneaker from the Adidas DAME 7 EXPLY series is presented as a musical "track” - the final being a surprise collaboration with Shaquille O’Neal, the only professional basketball player to release a certified platinum music album. Together, ‘Shaq’ and ‘Dame’ – with Reebok and Adidas – continue to blaze a trail for athletes with creative aspirations.

In “Damenosis”, Dame’s signature sneaker is brought to life in Shaq’s iconic “Shaqnosis” colorway, while Shaq’s historic Reebok Shaqnosis is presented in colors nodding Dame’s musical iconoclast.

Introduced in 1995, Reebok’s “Shaqnosis” embodied the larger-than-life, multi-dimensional persona of a superstar athlete, actor, and rapper, Shaquille O'Neal. This fifth signature shoe by Reebok, for Shaq, helped dispel the notion that big men couldn’t sell sneakers.

“I came in the era where the statement was made that big guys can’t sell shoes so when Reebok gave me my first opportunity, I just wanted to represent for the big guys, plus I always saw myself as a guard in a big man’s body,” said O’Neal in a recent video interview with Lillard. 

26 years later, “Shaqnosis” gets a reimagining in the form of the “Damenosis” linking O’Neal to an NBA guard in Lillard, who embodies the fierce competitive spirit of Shaq on the court and a shared love of music off the court.  

“For a legend who has done so well on and off the court being willing to attach his name to mine and connecting over a shoe, that’s a special honor,” said Lillard. 

Dame’s signature sneaker is brought to life in Shaq’s iconic “Shaqnosis” colorway. The “Damenosis” features a subtle fade on the upper and tooling, inspired by the iconic Shaq “Shaq Fu” hat image. In addition, there’s a special elevated toe box with both player and brand logos.  

Reebok’s Shaqnosis ($150, GX2609) and Adidas Dame 7 EXPLY “Damenosis” launch globally on October 19 from Reebok.com and adidas.com respectively and select local retailers.

Lyrical Chris Talks of Inspiration, Motivation, and what Drives his Success

Hip Hop’s self-proclaimed Grandchild and multi-talented rapper who dons the moniker of Lyrical Chris. The enigma is at the fulcrum of an evolving hip-hop scene. Lyrical Chris is a very different and uniquely wired musician who isn’t afraid to break the rules and push the boundaries of our perception with his deeply layered and well-crafted production. Born and raised in Georgia, his drive, focus, and tenacity will lead him to become a relentless and unstoppable force in the independent circuit. Lyrical Chris is making music that is driven by a desire to motivate, inspire, and tell his story his way.

How did you come up with a stage name?

I came up with the name Lyrical Chris during my days in high school. I wanted a stage name that sounded iconic and matched well with my style of music. Something that was simple but gets a hip-hop fan’s attention to want to listen to my music. I also prefer myself as "Hip-Hop's Grandchild." The fathers of Hip-Hop (DJ Kool Herc, etc.) have become grandfathers of Hip-Hop and the sons of Hip-Hop (Nas, Rakim, Jay-Z, Big Daddy Kane, etc.) have become the fathers of Hip-Hop. Now the grandchild has arrived with a new generation of hip-hop

Where are you from?

I am originally from a small town called Tifton, GA. It is a place where you don’t have many opportunities to thrive. If you want to pursue a career, you will have to move out to a bigger city to get those opportunities. I grew up in a very small home with my grandmother and my mother and 3 brothers. Lots of ups and downs and struggles trying to survive and make my way out. 

Where are you now?

I am in Gainesville, FL, and I have been in the North Florida area for 5 years now. I love it here. More cities, opportunities, and entertainment in Florida than in my hometown.

Why did you first start making music?

Number one thing, I have a passion for music and it’s been there since my early childhood. I wanted to make hip-hop music that’s iconic with great lyrics and beats that inspires and motivates people. I felt like today’s hip-hop is not providing listeners enough of that type of content. I also want to make hip-hop that even kids can listen to without having it to be a “clean version.” You still get the aggressiveness and head-nodding material and lyrics of hip-hop, just without the vulgar and negativity and explicit words. 

Who would you say inspired you the most, as an artist?

Icons such as The Wu-Tang Clan, Nas, Busta Rhymes, Mystical, Lil Wayne, Ludacris, Sade, and Lupe Fiasco as the pivotal influences in his music. I also draw inspiration from my Big brother, Farinzio, who rapped and helped me fall in love with Hip Hop at a young age.

What’s your latest release?

My latest release is Already Know which is also my first release. This track brings me back to my upbringing coming from a Dead End literally and mentally and how I used that to create who I am today. Real Hip Hop and guaranteed to have your head nodding and giving you that extra boost for your day whether you are at the gym, playing sports, at home, or out with friends. If you love songs with a banging 808, aggressive lyrics, inspiration, and motivation, then this song is for you. You will be able to relate to this.

Who do people say you sound like?

They always say I sound different and that I am my own person. They can tell that I am genuinely trying to be unique and bring a new generational hip-hop era.

How do you currently feel about the state of Hip-hop in general?

I feel like Hip-Hop needs artists like myself to bring a new generational change in Hip-Hop. We need more unique, uplifting, motivational, and inspirational songs that will encourage us to be the best we can be and not to be bothered by the critics and naysayers. More different-sounding songs with great instrumentals and lyrics.

What are you focusing your time on now (e.g., recording a new record, touring the Midwest, writing, etc.)?

I am working on my next single which will be released at the beginning of 2022 in early February or sooner. I will be introducing a new flow and rhythm pattern to the Hip-Hop world. The song is called “Know Thyself.” Get ready hip-hop fans. This is going to be monumental. I am also focused on getting ready and prepared for my show in Jacksonville, FL, and my show in Miami, FL in December. 

If you could only listen to 3 albums for the rest of your life, what would they be?

I would go with Nas – Illmatic, J Cole – 2014 Forest Hill Drive, and Weeknd – Beauty Behind the Madness. Illmatic is my favorite album of all time. 2014 Forest Hill Drive is an album I can play without skipping a track. I went with Weeknd’s Beauty Behind the Madness since it is my favorite R&B album and I don’t want to have hip-hop as the only genre of music I could play for the rest of my life. 

Lyrical Chris combines various unique and experimental sounds with his intricate wordplay and often dabbles in various contrasting flows resulting in Hip Hop centered fusions that are still firmly stitched together by emotive undertones. Lyrical Chris cites icons such as The Wu-Tang Clan, Nas, Busta Rhymes, Mystical, Lil Wayne, Ludacris, Sade, and Lupe Fiasco as the pivotal influences in his music. He also draws inspiration from his Big brother, Farinzio, who rapped and helped Chris fall in love with Hip Hop. This all culminates in Lyrical Chris producing an enjoyable, and easygoing musical experience that is authentic and grounded in reality. His overarching ambition is to empower people through his gift and to be remembered as a generational icon.

Follow Lyrical Chris on Spotify, Instagram, & YouTube.

Johnny Gillespie Hits No. 2 on iTunes Electronic Music Singles Chart

You just charted at No. 2 on iTunes Electronic Music Single Sales Chart with your single gravitating. How does that feel?

I’m still in shock. I’ve been holding on to this record for over a year and felt that it was time to put it out with all the momentum that we’ve been building on the charts. From charting at 21 to 11 and finally hitting the top 5 at number 2. I’m at a loss for words. I feel so much gratitude to everyone that has supported me in making this dream a reality. I couldn’t have done it without my support group. We have a tight circle that is strong. Special shout out to jin Wooh who has been a teacher and friend for many years making this record sound so epic.

What do you like most about making music?

I never really thought about this question. It’s just second nature to me. It’s a way to express my emotions when I don’t have any other outlet. Sometime words aren’t enough and the music grabs ahold of everything I’m aiming to convey. It’s very therapeutic to me and helps me come back to reality feeling accomplished when the track is done. 

What inspired you to start playing and making music?

You could say my old man installed music in my mind. Whether it was him playing his harmonica to me as a child or taking me to concerts or listening to music on long drives on family trips. It was always around me and it was fun to find my own way to contribute to the world. 

Describe your creative process when you write new music.

Normally I start with a riff whether that be a piano melody or guitar melody and then I sing lines that come to my mind and the rest is history. I get in the lab and start cooking up the rest of the song adding elements from all types of genres.

Who's your ideal musician to collaborate with and why?

I love the musician that can get in and out. Sometime music can be a rabbit hole that could be endless. We really need to stay focused and do what’s best for the song. 

Are there any musicians who inspire you? What qualities do you admire about them?

Ronnie king inspires me all the time. He’s witty and witty with his music. He goes in the track all stealth like and comes out bringing the heat. I admire his work ethic and his know how of how to do what’s best for the track. 

Describe your favorite venue for performing.

Any venue packed to the brim so we can all catch each other’s vibes and have a good time. 

Which skills have you gained that help you perform effectively as a musician?

Persistence. I always knew how to start a track and finish it. Whether that was with band mates or by me. It takes persistence and self determination to get the job done.

Which qualities do you think make a great musician?

I feel like an open mind to let the creative process in is a must. Persistence and the ability to do what’s best for the track. This is my recipe for creating music. It’s the ability to channel the creativity mixed with emotions that lay dormant in your heart backed with experience that one has gone through in a story telling manner.

Is there another musician you've mentored or trained? Describe what you've done to help them.

I recently produced my first record for another artist named Andy Magruder and it was amazing to give back to another great artist. And currently my producing a reggae project for another great artist named shadoe. 

What's the best piece of advice another musician ever gave you?

It’s more like life advice. It’s a numbers game. If you fail once. you try and try again until you hit. once you find that perfect hit. keep hitting until you strike out and try again. 

What's your process for dealing with anxiety?

As a musician that use to struggle with bipolar disorder. I realized that I needed a vice and that vice was my musical creations. I found that if I felt a certain way, I could capture it and take the power out of me and make it into something relatable so others can have something to listen to when their going through a similar situation or feeling. I capture my vibes and make them into timeless pieces of art.

Anyone you’d like to thank?

I’d like to thank This great universe in which I get to create in. My beautiful wife Cait and our little one Rickie. My friends and my family. Ronnie king for being a great mentor. Jin Wooh for bringing the hot sauce on the tracks. VIP recordings. Sony orchard. Sullen clothing. Clinton sparks. The believers and doubters they all helped me get to where I’m at. 

Verse Rare La'Flare's "Star Gazin" Tops the US and UK iTunes Charts

We are honored to speak with you today. You just recently hit the USA iTunes Hip-hop/Rap Single Chart at no. 78 and the U.K. iTunes Hip-hop/Rap Single Chart at no. 15 with your hit track “Star Gazin!” Why don't you give us some details about you and your success. How did you get to where you are today?

I’ve been grinding independently for 11 years faithfully. I made it this far by keeping faith, staying consistent, providing quality material, networking & genuine services.

I'm sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way? Finding the right sources to work with. And within the first month of my Instagram verification my Instagram account got hacked. I recovered it a month later through a live Facebook agent.

Let's talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?

I specialize in “putting pieces of the puzzle together”. I’m the plug to the plug. Outside of that, I’m one of the most creative artists I know in music. If you are willing to work with me, I’ll match the energy other than that I stay in my lane.

What's your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?

Put God first. Stay Consistent and treat life right!

Speaking of success, what does tIt's an honor to speak with you today. You just recently hit the USA iTunes Hip-hop/Rap Single Chart at number 78 with the your hit track “Star Gazin!”

Why don't you give us some details about you and your success. How did you get to where you are today? * Ive been grinding independently for 11 years faithfully. I made it this far by keeing faith, staying consistant, providing quality material, networking & genuine services.

I'm sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way? * Finding the right sources to work with. & within the first month of my instagram verification my instagram got hacked I recovered it a month later through live facebook agent.

Let's talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition? * I specialize in “putting pieces of the puzzle together”. Im the plug to the plug. Outside of that Im one of the most creative artists i know in music. If you are willing to work with me I match the energy other than that I stay in my lane.

What's your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life? * PUT GOD FIRST, STAY CONSISTANT & TREAT LIFE RIGHT.

What's next for you?

Millions. Possibly Billions…

Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?

Any and everywhere, @verserarelaflare

Rapper Xpression Hits Top 20 on iTunes Rap Chart

Rapper Xpression Charts Top 20 on the Hip-hop/Rap Albums Sales Chart

We were honored to speak with rapper sensation “Xpression” today who recently hit the USA iTunes Hip-hop/Rap Albums Chart at number 20 with the his hit album “The Write Path. “ We were fortunate for the Rap star to provide us some details about himself and his success. “My name is Juan Carlos Fajardo Jr and I'm from Indio, ca born and raised. I go by the artist name ‘Xpression.’ Since a kid, I fell in love with Hip-Hop that's always been my first choice of music. Listening to my influences Tupac, DMX, Eminem and Nas and more (in that generation) at such a young age is what made me at 10 years old start rapping. I would rap my first verse amongst family and friends and people were very impressed to hear me rapping at that age. I liked the attention I was getting and it motivated me to want to write more raps and continue to explore that realm.. At age 16 is when I first stepped into a studio to record my first song, with one of my close High School friends who had also been making music since his childhood. From 16 years old until now its been a non stop grind. Writing music, building connections, staying active on all my social media platforms, building up my brand , collaborating with different influencers and some of my personal childhood favorites, investing money into my craft, having a more professional sound and all around just growing into the artist I am today.”

The hardworking and talented phenom’s success has not come easily. He shared with us some of the most recent challenges he has had overcome along the way: “It took a lot of sacrifice, a lot of time away from family and friends to keep focused on my mission. I quit several jobs because it was interfering with my dreams and goals I had. I would always invest my last dollar into my music instead of buying a pair of shoes or something else that I felt I didn't need. None of it was as important to me than my music , and still to this day I'm investing in myself. I'm always trying to catch the next trend or stay ahead of the game. I’m never satisfied to the point I wanna stop building myself. I plan to keep going and my goal is to push until I can't no more. As long as I'm on this earth I will always contribute my arts to those who cherish it. I love music its my passion, my therapy, my first love. Some of the challenges I've had to overcome along the way are my battles with my mental health. When I was 15 I was diagnosed with bi-polar disorder and that's always played a crucial roll in life, especially in my high school years. A period of my life when I was homeless sleeping in the back of my friends car in another friends garage. Some nights in the park, it was rough but in the midst of all that I still stayed optimistic…I kept pursuing my music.”

“Xpression” recently hit the USA iTunes Hip-hop/Rap Albums Chart at number 20 with the his hit album “The Write Path.“

Xpression is passionate about the work he does. He specializes in songwriting and story-telling as he is consistently speaking from the heart in his music and doing charitable events in the community. His talent and work ethic put him over the top of the competition, but it is his positive attitude regarding collaborations that has also propelled his career. He explains: “I separate myself from the whole I'm better he's better thing I think people get to wrapped up in that image of trying to be the best and let their egos ruin the love for the craft. I love collaborations and group efforts on projects. I think when a group of creative people get together its a stronger force and when everyone is positive, motivated and focused the work and results will speak for itself. I let my grind and actions do the talking. and not only that I don't just focus on just rap. I incorporate so much into my over all image from music to poetry to photography, to social media to comedy to managing other artist to writing for other artist I do it all. I'm a jack of all trades. I don't just stick with one thing I try to expand on every idea. You gotta dominate every aspect in this business!”

The Hip-Hop artist is also an accomplished author and his book "The Write Path To Creative Self-Xpression” is a collaboration with his mother Psychotherapist, Angelica Guajardo. Xpression is a certified Hip-hop therapy specialist who also directs teen groups, motivating the youth and trying to inspire them to chase their dreams. The artist offers his best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life when he states: “The best piece of advice for people who desire to find success is don't wait for it to find you. You gotta get out there and make your dreams a reality. If you set the proper goals in place you can make it happen, don't live in fear or doubt. Believe in yourself and believe its possible. Stand out, make your presence known, speak up. Don't be afraid to ask for help, if you don't know the answer to something, do your research. If there's an idea you have share it. Be active on social media that's very important. Make sure you find balance cause you will crash if you exhaust yourself. Know when to take a break and know when its time to get back to work, but never quit!”

The chart topping Rap star has huge plans for what's next for his fans. He explains: “What's next for me is ‘The Write Path 2’ album. "‘The Write Path” was a major milestone for me in my Hip-hop career that now I wanna just follow it up and out do myself!

Fans can connect with Xpression @xpressionthemc on all social media platforms or on his website Xpressionthemc.com if they want to learn more.

iTunes Chart-Topper Johnny Gillespie Releases "Gravitating" Single

iTunes Chart-Topper Johnny Gillespie Releases "Gravitating" Single

Phenomenal multi-genre artist Johnny Gillespie announces the release of his incendiary single “Gravitating” on Black Friday 2021.  Distributed by Sony Music's The Orchard in association with VIP Recordings and Push Global Entertainment, the masterpiece fuses a modern country sound with an EDM twist.  A follow up to the #11 iTunes USA Pop Charting Album "How you like me Now?" and the #21 iTunes USA Pop Charting Album "Johnny Gillespie," "Gravitating" co-produced by Jin Wooh is that eclectic sound addition perfect to your favorite mainstream pop, electronica, and modern country playlists.  

Johnny Gillespie, a California native's music seamlessly blends the lines between alternative pop, country, and rock. The phenom draws inspiration from all genres and from influences such as Sublime’s Bradley Nowell and Marshal Mathers. The artist strives to maintain a sense of uniqueness in everything he creates. 

“I don’t want to sound like anyone other than me,” says Gillespie. Throughout the span of his career, Gillespie has worked with Ronnie King (Gillespie’s mentor) a record producer known for his work with legends like Tupac and Mariah Carey. Gillespie has also worked with Casey Sullivan (from Seedless) and collaborated with producer Bradley Denniston (G-Eazy, Gotye). After rediscovering himself and his mission in music when he became sober, Gillespie decided to make art that reflected the inspiration that people need in their darkest days. The singer dealt with health issues as a child and found through music his way of connecting with the masses.  A multiple charting iTunes artist, his music provides his fans and listeners worldwide a sense of uplifting motivation through lyrics and sound.

The Kings of Alternative Rock, RedrumSociety, Return with New Single, “It’s Too Late”

RedrumSociety is returning with their latest single “It’s Too Late”. According to the reports, the kings of alternative rock, RedrumSociety announced their single will be released on November 19 this year.

RedrumSociety is one of the most renowned blues and alternative rock bands, and they are still making waves in the industry. Recently, the band managed to reach new heights on the Billboard Music Charts with their hit release, “All Night”, debuting at #22.

The band’s lead singer Zach Cohen is entitled to lead the band towards glory and he’s doing it with style. The lead singer also stated that the latest song is funky and will be dealing with a retro vibe.

Fans are already eagerly awaiting the release of “It’s Too Late”. RedrumSociety has already released the cover art, and glimpses of the song’s official music video on social media and has received immense responses. The video clips display fashion and scenes from the early ’90s. Sources wanted to get more out of this amazing announcement and got in touch with the band. Apparently, the latest single was set to be released earlier. However, due to some changes the release was postponed until November.

In addition, the band’s lead singer Zach Cohen also shared some insights on the upcoming song. Although not much is known regarding the theme; however, the song will be covering the traditional alternative rock tunes mixed with the retro-themed music video.

As always, Zach is the one behind its composition and is bringing another RedrumSociety sensation for the fans. What is even more exciting is that this composition will be following the footsteps of its predecessors, but it will be mixed with a modernized musical touch.

After the success of “Seeing Things”, the band has been continuously performing on various platforms. Live concerts and performances have made RedrumSociety one of the fastest-growing bands in such a small amount of time.

Not to mention the composition ideas by Zach are amazing, which makes the songs communicative and engaging for the listeners. It seems that the alternative rock genre has truly been accepting the band and now they’re looking to create a series of successful releases before ending the year.

In conclusion, the band is also offering discounts for those that have made purchases for “Seeing Things”. Discount offers will be available on merchandise also. We are anxious to see how well their new single, “It’s Too Late” entertains fans and continues RedrumSociety’s success.

Visit his Website, and follow his movement on Facebook & subscribe to his YouTube channel.

Tanja Carol Releases Her New Single, 'Lost In Paradise'

Tanja Carol is a singer-songwriter from Switzerland. Her parents gave her entry into music as a child. She was born into a very music-loving family, that she will always be grateful for. After all, music is the language of the soul. She believes this is the full truth.

She got started in the music business in November 2021 with her new song "Lost In Paradise." Her songs are all part of her life in one way or another, sometimes sad and sometimes full of joy. She sings to touch people, no more, but not a little less. She would like to try many adventures, and with music, she has no idea where that will lead her, but she is sure it will come well.

For more information check out her Website.

She would like to say, “Thanks for listening my music. I am happy if even one of my songs finds its way into your heart, and also a bit into your feet (Let The Beat Go On…).”

Follow her movement on Instagram, and purchase her new single on Amazon.

Release Date For "Ridin High" Pushed Back to End of November

Ridin High The Compilation was set to be released on the 12th of November. This date has been pushed back to the end of November. Nonetheless, pre-orders remain open for fans to place their orders.

The DJ Grid has been gearing up for the release of this project for a while but made things official when they revealed the album’s cover art to the world. For Ridin High The Compilation, The DJ Grid decided to follow the trend of rappers using simple symbolism as album covers. But as explained in a recent interview, the CEO put a different spin on the idea by explaining why this picture is perfect. “We called the album Ridin High because that’s where we’re going… High! I promise, it’s that simple.”.

Predicted Platinum Catalogs (@DJGridUSA) has collaborated with GRIND Magazine for this star-studded album. We will keep fans updated with details here on Grind Weekly.

Meet PB Rio, The Face of an Influential Compilation Titled 'Ridin High'

Atlanta-based artist PB Rio was born in Davenport, Iowa, and developed his versatile style crossing the Midwest and the South. His personality flows straight through his fun and playful sound, mixing it up with hard-hitting and gritty lyrics that ring with reality. He was featured on multiple radio stations in Atlanta which landed him the opportunity to attend the Revolt Summit.

He has landed a spot on one of the most astonishing albums of the year. The project features big names like TI, Lil Baby, Gucci Mane, Fredo Bang, Joyner Lucas, Mykko Montana, Third World Don, Khao (Grammy Nominated Producer), and now PB Rio. This album was compiled by Predicted Platinum Records and is already creating huge waves in the industry.

PB Rio has been cosigned by OG Bigga Rankin and his single "S.P.O.T" was featured on the mixtape "Bigga Is Betta vol.11". He also landed a spot on the front page of the Atlanta-based magazine Grynd Report. He’s been featured and interviewed on iHeart radio’s, “Industries Most Wanted”, a podcast hosted by Tampa Mystic. PB Rio can also be heard on Shade 45, Chicago’s Fake Shore Dr., with DJ Kyung.

Follow PB Rio on YouTube & Facebook, and visit his Website for his latest music, press releases, interviews, and more.

Doc Marky T's New Single "Feelings" Ft. Myah Marie & MVP Mhad Hits No. 3 on iTunes Chart

This week, SS Global Entertainment releases a hit single produced by Doc Marky T, titled “Feelings” with 8 versions in total that soared up the iTunes Dance chart landing at number 3.

Doc Marky T is a former teacher, coach, and Rideshare driver that established numerous unofficial Rideshare world records in 2019 – coincidentally the year COVID relief programs would be calculated upon. After receiving nearly half a million dollars in COVID relief between 2020 and 2021, he purchased music studio equipment to reignite a dream of writing a Billboard hit record. After writing a song “Miss America” about a former Miss America but failing to get a response from her, he decided to take his first-ever music production course to professionalize his songwriting. During the course, he wrote the instrumental to “Feelings” while looking at pictures of Miss America for inspiration in the hopes of impressing her. The music was originally composed to a different vocalist and lyrics as part of the course but he later recruited Myah Marie from an online music source to write and sing new vocals to the instrumental as a break-up song.

The song wonders why we need feelings to being with that enable us to feel pain from imperfection in a relationship. - Doc Marky T

Ariel Chobaz, who engineered Drake, Rhianna, Justin Bieber, and Nicky Minaj among many other stars, said he was one of the greatest up-and-coming artists he’s worked with after engineering his first three initial songs including “Feelings.” Myah Marie is a former backup singer to Britney Spears and has #1 Billboards hits to her writing credits. MVP Mhad is a new and upcoming rapper from Englewood, Chicago whom he used to coach in high school track and field. He recruited MVP Mhad to write a rap to the bridge after it was apparent to him that his voice and lyrics would not be the best fit for the song.

“Feelings” is a song that everyone should be able to relate to from experiencing pain in relationships, romantic or not. And now it’s clear to the world of music and entertainment that it has reached the ears and hearts of their fans.

STREAM THE HIT SINGLE BELOW for your listening pleasure. There are also other versions for fans in the Pop, R&B, Dance, and Disco genres available.

Follow Doc Marky T on his social media profiles shown below to stay up with new music and projects he has coming soon.

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/doc_marky_t/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100073314895522
Twitter https://twitter.com/docmarkyt1

Natural Vybz Releases New Single “Tra La La” - Out Now

Natural Vybz is definitely giving us the feels with the new single “Tra La La”. It’s serving good vibes and creative love making. Natural Vybz can easily take the US scene by storm with this hip rolling, vibe creating sound.

Check out "Tra La La" single by Natural Vybz within the links below.

https://linktr.ee/Naturalvybz

Www.naturalvybzissential.com 

Tune in to the most recent iHeart radio interview he did via Vigilante Radio below,

Ronnie Raxz Releases New Single, 'Can’t Go Back'

The artist “Ronnie Raxz” AKA Bigg Raxz has been creating since he was 14 yrs old. Like most artists, Raxz had trouble with the legal system and was involved in a shooting that lead him to serve 10 yrs of incarceration. Now only being released 8 months and going strong he’s on a mission that isn’t complete until he says it is.

To find more music go to YouTube and follow his movement on Instagram

For features and bookings
Contact via email “realronnieraxz@gmail.com
Contact via phone “937-823-3963”

Eli Manna Releases New Single, 'Hidden Oaks'

Justin Elijah D’Anthony Reid (born March 16, 2001), professionally known as Eli Manna is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He is best known for being the first artist in history to record a 10 genre album. He was raised in Conyers, Georgia, but would later relocate to Jacksonville, Florida in his early teenage years. Justin would eventually go on to graduate from the multiple grammy awarded arts school, Douglas Anderson School of the Arts.

Following high school, Justin continued to train his vocals under vocal guru David Lee Brewer, best known for being Beyoncé’s first vocal coach in her early career. What sets Eli apart from your typical artist is his diverse catalog of music. Fluent in almost all genres and styles of music, there just simply will never be another artist like Eli Manna in history again.

Follow his movement on Instagram.

Gritty In Pink Founder Shira Yevin Appears on Forbes Books Podcast To Announce INPINK Beta Marketplace

Photo Credit Erica Vincent

New Network is for Music Industry Pros to Hire Diverse Women

Gritty In Pink Founder Shira Yevin is interviewed by host Joe Pardavila on the latest ForbesBooksRadio podcast, discussing the company’s new INPINK marketplace, as well as other exhilarating announcements. The ForbesBooks podcast offers stories, passion, and knowledge from top business thought leaders. Gritty In Pink, a company on a mission to achieve gender equality in the music business and beyond, is currently rolling out their beta platform of a new marketplace network called INPINK, connecting women who work within all aspects of the music business, to industry professionals who want to hire diverse women.

Gritty In Pink believes that achieving gender equality in the music business is not only the right thing to do, but it’s better for business. Currently, women are still missing from the music industry in staggering numbers: merely 21.6% of artists, 12.6% of songwriters and 2.6% of producers are women, and the ratio of men to women in popular music is 4:1. However, studies have proven that gender diverse teams perform better, and according to the Boston Consulting Group, startups founded or co-founded by women garner less investment but generate more revenue in the long run. The urgency for diversity, equity and inclusion in the music industry is greater now more than ever.

Despite the fact that women are still underrepresented, there is still a huge opportunity and talent pool. The market supply for women who work in all areas touching the industry including Public Relations, Photography, Writers, Creatives etc. is $1.3 M in the US alone, and the music industry’s total contribution to the US GDP is $170 B- $128 B of which comes from indirect services, such as freelancers. Company Advisor and Vans Warped Tour Founder Kevin Lyman noted the need for such a marketplace, saying “There’s a lot of women entering the business in the technical fields...finding jobs and placement for anyone is a help, it’s a transient business.” .

Currently, Gritty In Pink is accepting submissions from female freelancers to be part of the beta site at INPINK.com, which has already started onboarding listings of female music professionals, ranging from songwriting and audio production to styling and makeup. The listings are mostly for remote services, plus local services which are first launching in the LA area. The platform will continue to expand, with the company focusing on growing both supply and demand. “Our next step is onboarding strategic partners. These days everyone wants inclusion and diversity in their hiring practices, so it’s a very timely platform,” said Shira Yevin. “The big vision is to diversify to every industry.”

Shira was also excited to share more exciting news on the ForbesBooks podcast. Most recently, Gritty In Pink was accepted into the Long Beach Accelerator, a prestigious program that mentors and invests in growing startups, working with their funding partner Sunstone Management “Gritty In Pink provides a powerful solution to fill such a big demand in a largely overlooked market. Sunstone is thrilled to become one of its early-stage investors.” said John Shen, Principal of Sunstone Management.

Gritty In Pink was founded by Shira Yevin, who is also known as an Entrepreneur, Artist, and Activist. Shira studied Communications and Theatre Arts at the University of Pennsylvania. She’s been a featured speaker at SXSW and featured in Billboard, Alternative Press, NPR and The New York Times. After forming her all-female band Shiragirl, Shira became known for advocating for women in male-dominated spaces; Shira and her band crashed the Vans Warped Tour and created the Shiragirl Stage for female artists, which hosted 300+ artists including the rock icon Joan Jett.

Shira was also recently featured on My Warped Life and Babes Behind the Beat podcasts, both of which can be heard on Spotify and all major streaming platforms, in addition to the interview on ForbesBooksRadio.

For more information on INPINK and Gritty In Pink, please visit: www.grittyinpink.co.

Gritty in Pink is a new platform empowering women in music through performance, partnerships, and networking opportunities. Founder Shira Yevin has a legendary history of breaking down barriers and carving out a space for women, as the creator of the Vans Warped Tour Shiragirl Stage, which featured 300+ female musicians, including Joan Jett and Paramore. Gritty in Pink continues the legacy of providing community and a stage for female voices in a male-dominated industry, having showcased 175+ artists with a collective following of 5 million on Instagram and 13 million on Tiktok.

Follow @grittyinpinklife and @shira_girl on Instagram, contact team@grittyinpinklife.co, or visit the website grittyinpink.co for more info.

Media Contact: Aalaysia Pointer grittyinpinkpress@gmail.com

Taylor Swift Sings At Rock Hall Ceremony To Help Induct Carole King To Hall Of Fame

Taylor Swift had the first word at the 2021 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony Saturday night (Oct. 30) in Cleveland.

After opening remarks by Rock Hall CEO Greg Harris and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation President John Sykes, Swift took the stage at Rockey Mortgage Fieldhouse in a glittering, form-fitting outfit to sing a vibey, electronic-flavored rendition of Rock Hall inductee Carole King's “Will You Love Me Tomorrow,” the 1960 Shirelles No. 1 Billboard Hot 100 hit King wrote with her first husband, Gerry Goffin, and also recorded for her own Billboard 200 chart-topping Tapestry album in 1971. King and Goffin were inducted into the Rock Hall as songwriters in 1990; on Saturday, King was inducted a second time, as a performer. After Swift’s performance, King mimed wiping tears from her eyes and bowed in thanks.

In her induction speech, Swift spoke about being raised by parents “who taught me the basic truths of life as they saw it,” among them that “Carole King is the greatest songwriter of all time.” That included a father who once told a woman he was dating that King’s breakup ode “It’s Too Late” was a song that she reminded him of. Swift added that King’s lyrics “speak to the true and honest … It is only right for them to be passed down like precious heirlooms from parents to children.”

She also saluted King for “navigating the politics of an era that didn’t make space for a female genius. Slowly but surely Carole King worked to create one, and it will be hers forever.”

After thanking Swift “for carrying the torch forward” and calling her “like my professional granddaughter,” King paid tribute to Goffin and other collaborators and supporters, including Tapestry album producer Lou Adler and James Taylor, as well as musicians, managers and others.

“I keep hearing it, so I’m gonna have to try to own it, that today’s female singers and songwriters stand on my shoulder,” said King. “Let it not be forgotten they also stand on the shoulders of the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. May she rest in power – Miss Aretha Franklin,” she said, to a huge ovation from the arena crowd. King then introduced Jennifer Hudson, start of the Franklin biopic Respect, who delivered a powerhouse version of the King-written Franklin hit “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" (which King also later recorded for her own Tapestry).

Read more here.

Johnny Gillespie's New Album Scorches to No. 11 on the iTunes Pop Charts

We were honored to speak with Johnny Gillespie today who recently hit the USA iTunes Pop Albums Chart at number 11 with the hit album “How You Like Me Now?.” He gave us some details about his success in the music industry.

“Persistence is the name of the game! Surround yourself with a great team. The rest falls into place. I’m grateful for Ronnie king for being the executive producer on the album and really pushing me to make this project be the best that it can be. This man really took me under his wing and showed me the ropes. I’m grateful for the great mixes done by Radium Media for giving the sound an edge. My wife for being my backbone, sullen clothing for keeping me inspired to go big. I couldn’t have done it without surrounding myself with a great team! This milestone happened because of all of our efforts and is not to be taken lightly. Great things happen when you build together!”

For the dynamic Pop star, success has not come easily. He shared with us some challenges he had to overcome along the way. “I’ve been through the ringer but no matter when I fell I kept getting back up. Like I said persistence always wins. If you fail try again and again and again. When I fell I had a team to carry me and that’s why I’m so eternally grateful for them. Who would have thought a kid from Orange County California with all the odds against him could come this far? How you like me now world? We ain’t done yet!”

The collaborative work that Johnny produces specializes in reaching his audience’s depth of perspective and as a result he has surpassed considerable competition on the iTunes Pop charts. Johnny explains “People want to work with me because I’ll always give my best no matter what. Wanna know what it’s like to feel nothing and be at your all time low and come back? I come with so many perspectives from life from going through adversity that I bring experience to the table. Most time la I feel like I know how to do what’s best for the track and if I don’t I’m not afraid to ask for help. I learned that along the way. I love to collaborate with likeminded individuals who see a bigger picture for themselves and like to win together.”

Johnny is grateful and takes his success in stride stating “If you can dream it and believe it, you can achieve it. I remember going to Ronnie kings house and seeing his plaques on his walls that ran for miles and miles of just great records he was part of and 10 years later I get the opportunity to put some more on his wall. That was always a dream of mine. How you like us now? Success means to continue to progress when shit hits the fan! Don’t give up! Don’t stop grinding there’s no time to lose we’re all on borrowed time. 

So what's next for the pop charting artist? 

“Just wait and see! More to be revealed but if you like what I’m about Follow me on ig @johnnygmusic and get the latest scoop! And if you wanna work hit me up and join the team we’re here and ready to get some more projects going!”

Adele’s ‘Easy On Me’ Triumps Over The Billboard Global Charts

Adele's 'Easy on Me' Blasts to No. 1 on Billboard Hot 100

'Easy on Me' Vaults 195-1 on Global 200

Adele's "Easy on Me" is the biggest song in the world, as it hits No. 1 on the Billboard Global 200 and Billboard Global Excl. U.S. charts (both dated Oct. 30) following its Oct. 14 arrival.

Plus, and adding to British acts' highlights, Elton John and Dua Lipa's "Cold Heart (Pnau Remix)" reaches the Global Excl. U.S. top five, climbing from No. 6 to No. 5.

Adele’s ‘Easy On Me’ Set For Second Week Atop U.K. Singles Chart

Billboard's two global charts, which began in September 2020 and recently marked their first year, rank songs based on streaming and sales activity culled from more than 200 territories around the world, as compiled by MRC Data. The Billboard Global 200 is inclusive of worldwide data and the Billboard Global Excl. U.S. chart comprises data from territories excluding the U.S.

Chart ranks are based on a weighted formula incorporating official-only streams on both subscription and ad-supported tiers of audio and video music services, as well as download sales, the latter of which reflect purchases from full-service digital music retailers from around the world, with sales from direct-to-consumer (D2C) sites excluded from the charts' calculations.

"Easy" by London-born Adele flies from No. 195, where it debuted, to No. 1 on the Billboard Global 200. The song drew 178.2 million streams and sold 136,300 downloads worldwide in the Oct. 15-21 tracking week.

The ballad boasts the second-biggest streaming week since the Global 200 began, after BTS' "Butter" launched with 289.2 million streams on the June 5 chart. "Easy" scores the third-biggest sales frame, following "Butter" (248,600, June 5) and BTS' "Permission to Dance" (138,600, July 24).

Adele is the third British act to top the Global 200, after Ed Sheeran, whose "Bad Habits" led the July 31 list, and Coldplay, whose "My Universe," with BTS, rocketed in at No. 1 on the Oct. 9 chart.

Read more here.

Boosie Badazz Tweets Anti-Gay Rant Towards Lil Nas X

Boosie Badazz performs Aug. 15, 2020, in College Park, Ga.Paras Griffin / Getty Images fileHip-hop artist Boosie Badazz is coming under fire after tweeting an anti-gay rant targeting the rapper Lil Nas X. The message, which was shared Saturday, also urged the Grammy-winning artist to take his life.

“STOP TROLLING ME F----- LOL!!," the tweet said, in part. "IF YOU #commitsuicide YOU WOULD DO THIS WORLD A HUGE FAVOR NOBODY WANTS U HERE."

Twitter took down the rapper’s post for violating the company’s policy on hate speech.

Badazz's offensive remarks came shortly after Lil Nas X jokingly told fans on Instagram Live over the weekend that he would be collaborating on a new song with the 38-year-old rapper, who earlier this year threatened to "drag" and "beat" the 22-year-old singer, whose debut album "Montero" dropped last month.

Lil Nas X — who was honored as the Trevor Project‘s Suicide Prevention Advocate of the Year in September — responded on Twitter in jest, saying, “i am truly saddened. i have never been so mortified in my life. i can’t believe disney channel has yet to play halloween town this entire october.”

The remarks against Lil Nas X come after the "Old Town Road" singer revealed in February that he suffered from suicidal thoughts in 2019.

“I got news that my mom wasn’t doing so well in rehab with her addiction,” he wrote in a series of TikTok captions. “Also me and my boyfriend broke up. During this time old town road was still killing it while I was… spiraling. I found myself in a hotel room contemplating ending it all. But I didn’t.”

In the series of videos, Lil Nas X also said he was previously kicked out of his sister's home and experienced domestic abuse while living with one of his brothers.

The rapper has further addressed his grapples with suicidal thoughts in a music video for his single "Sun Goes Down," which depicts him uplifting a younger version of himself when he is struggling to come to terms with his sexuality.

On Saturday, fans were quick to come to Lil Nas X's defense.

"Boosie isn’t mad that Lil Nas X is queer," one user wrote on Twitter. "Boosie is mad that a queer Black rapper is doing better than him in an industry that has built its foundation in homophobia."

Read more here.

Tips For Building a Successful Music Program

Recruitment Tip

It’s never too late to get students involved in music so engage your more advanced students and make them as visible as possible in your school building so that others can see how much they enjoy performing. Can they perform during lunchtime on Fridays; play a fun version of “Happy Birthday” for the teachers in your building on their special day by bursting into one of their classes with a branded balloon or ink pen; or serenade the office staff (including counselors) during Thanksgiving or Valentine’s Day to thank them for their hard work? And don’t forget the elementary or middle school music teachers! Is there a way to arrange to have a few of your experienced students show up at their former music teachers' classrooms to serenade them as well during their largest classes? All of this takes some extra coordination, but remember, recruiting is a 24/7, 365-day-a-year process, and the more that non-music students and future potential students see how much fun your current students are having, the more they will want to be a part of it. 

Retention Tip

If you haven’t booked the first concert for your newbies yet, now is the time! Download the FREE First Performance National Day of Celebration Toolkit and get ready to share the joy of the very first music-making experience with your beginners, their parents, and your administration. This 20-25 minute, scripted concert event generates a lot of excitement for everyone and leads to increased retention overall. 

Success Tip

It goes without saying that being a music educator requires a multitude of various tasks and having assistance makes all the difference. Now is the time to recruit and engage the parents of your new students who may be able to lend a hand and just need a little guidance on what they can do. Not only does it help to increase your efficiency, but it is also the first step toward building relationships with those who care the most about your students — their parents! NAfME has provided a wealth of information on how parents can support a music program and the Music Travel blog provides guidance through suggested key steps on getting parents involved. Be sure to involve the parents of current students who may be your best resource on engaging new parents.

Read more here.