Although Drake has certainly captured headlines and drawn massive attention this year, not all of it has been favorable. This time, the Grammy-winning rapper is in the spotlight not because of a diss track but for voluntarily sharing information. The creator of “God’s Plan” recently disclosed that his proposal for collaboration with prominent entrepreneur Jeff Bezos was turned down by the business tycoon.
Drake and “Gods Plan”
Regardless of any negative opinions an artist may face, their work should be acknowledged and celebrated when it deserves recognition. Drake’s song “God’s Plan” is a phenomenal piece with a strong message that cannot be ignored. Some may not realize that Drake had grander intentions for this project.
The “Drizzy” Giveaway
https://youtu.be/mFas2saqqgg?si=JN-Q1DXx8BN6kBpK
Recently, Drake collaborated with Adin Ross for a holiday stream, which many are calling one of the largest giveaways ever broadcast. His “God’s Plan” music video inspired the idea, yet the stream captured only a small portion of his vision. Drake planned an entire television series around this concept and pitched it to Jeff Bezos. Unfortunately, Bezos opted not to invest in the idea. As Drake stated during the stream, “This is something I’ve wanted to do since I shot [‘God’s Plan’].”
Drake Discusses Concept
Drake’s proposed show aimed to echo the format of the late Anthony Bourdain’s acclaimed series. Titled “God’s Plan,” the concept revolved around Drake traveling to significant locations and engaging with wealthy individuals. The plan was to distribute millions of dollars directly to those in need, showcasing a spirit of philanthropy. Yet, despite its promising premise, the project never materialized. Questions linger about its failure and why high-profile figures, such as Jeff Bezos, did not show interest in funding it. The reasons behind this reluctance remain ambiguous, prompting speculation that not everyone may be willing to embrace a wealth distribution model. This is merely the musings of a journalist, not something confirmed.
“God’s Plan” Always Works Out
Although his original plan did not come to fruition, Drake’s efforts were still successful and positively impacted many. He could have abandoned the idea altogether, but instead, he persevered with his available resources. This demonstrates admirable determination and deserves recognition. Other affluent investors may note his actions, share his vision and expand upon it even more. You never know—you often have to prove skeptics wrong in this world.
Props to Drake
In a world where the takers outnumber the givers, it is always encouraging to know some people continue to give out of abundance. Efforts such as Drake’s use of his platform to pay generosity forward to others are worthy of highlighting. For Drake’s fans who want to know what else the artist gave away on that stream, he provided an update on his upcoming collaborative project.
During the holiday season, charitable contributions become a focus. Recently, Nicki Minaj stood out as one of those givers integral to another’s story.
Geoffrey Owens’ Unforgettable Role
Almost everyone who grew up watching “The Cosby Show” knows Elvin, the character married to Sandra, the eldest Cosby child. Their storyline on the show was quite impactful. One of the most memorable episodes to include these characters was the birth of their twins.
Elvin’s overthinking and misguided misogyny created a rather comical dynamic. Despite not being a main character, Owens stole the show many times with his memorable portrayal. With such talent, many expected him to go far—not an unusual expectation for prominent cast members from successful shows. However, Owens’ career path after “The Cosby Show” took an unexpected turn, deviating from the trajectory many anticipated.
Owens After Hollywood and Nicki Minaj
After leaving The Cosby Show’s spotlight, his life turned to anonymity. He was not reintroduced to the public until he was discovered working at Trader Joe’s. News of his relegation to Hollywood’s fringes, once so famous and talented, quickly spread, causing disbelief.
His story resonated with many, including industry gatekeepers and influential figures determined to see him reclaim his former glory. One such figure was hip-hop artist Nicki Minaj.
Due to the generosity of others, Owens experienced a revival in his career and secured roles in different productions. His latest appearance was in the syndicated show “Poppa’s House.” However, what’s particularly noteworthy is his present financial status. Even with his comeback to Hollywood, he still faces financial difficulties.
“Every day is a struggle to make ends meet,” he confessed.
Some may find this surprising, as they often associate working in Hollywood with wealth and success. But what may be even more astonishing is that when Owens received a generous gift from Minaj that could have improved his financial situation, he selflessly gave it away.
Diving Into Geoffrey Owens Rationale
Some may find this act difficult to comprehend—how can someone in need let go of a potential lifeline? It’s a ponderous concept that may never make sense. But that is the complexity of human nature—no two individuals are alike, and each has their own reasoning. Owens, however, was resolute in his decision and knew exactly why he gave it all away.
A Reflective Decision
During the interview, the former star of “The Cosby Show” revealed,
“In that moment, it felt like the right decision.”
Despite his struggles, he recognized that others needed help more than he did. This selfless act reflected his core values and demonstrated his true character.
It demonstrated that he valued others higher than himself. Owens is not down and out. In spite of his struggles, he continues tirelessly pursuing his passions. No, he has not achieved complete financial stability, as some assume. He is wholeheartedly wealthy in opportunities and talent and can continue to dedicate himself to pursuing what he loves.
Selfless Acts of Owens and Minaj
This story reminds us that true wealth lies in our experiences and the potential to positively impact others. It’s a powerful message to carry into the new year.
Let’s not forget Nicki Minaj, who selflessly gave from her abundance to someone without attention or praise. This is commendable and, indeed, a type of selflessness that everyone should strive toward.
Curtis Jackson, “Fifty Cent,” appeared on Good Morning America on Friday, December 13, to discuss his latest documentary about Sean “Diddy” Combs. Many looked forward to this update, but was it what everyone expected?
Down The Rabbit Hole
A video released in May showed Combs violently assaulting ex-girlfriend Cassie, catching the public off guard. It wasn’t long before Diddy issued a public apology, acknowledging his behavior was inexcusable.
However, this was only a precursor to what followed. The public was stunned. Since then, the Diddy case has escalated, emerging as one of 2024’s most prominent topics, with developments snowballing daily.
Curtis Jackson Takes on Diddy
The scope of Combs’s allegations wasn’t the only surprising revelation. News that Jackson would spearhead a documentary on the artist was even more intriguing. With Jackson at the helm, it was clear it wouldn’t be boring. He was the mastermind behind some of TV’s most raw and gritty dramas like “Power,” “Raising Kanan,” and “BMF. ” So, as the media circus grew, people became more enthused to see what Jackson had to share.
Jackson on GMA (Good Morning America)
Finally, on Friday, December 13th, audiences got a bit more clarity on the project’s status from Jackson. According to Jackson, the project was much larger than anticipated, and as they dug deeper, more allegations surfaced. Jackson compared the findings to an octopus with its vast, complex tentacles. But that was not all the multi-magnate had to say on the topic. The mogul acknowledged that he never anticipated it would reach this extent, further stating that it wasn’t something anyone expected.
True Rivalry or Smoke and Mirrors
Curtis Jackson has long been rumored to be a rival of Sean Combs. The internet and social media have speculated about their supposed feud for years. Some have even speculated that this is part of what fueled Jackson’s decision to take on this project. However, when asked about it on Good Morning America, Fifty Cent clarified that there is simply a “competitive energy” between them—a professional way to describe tension or conflict for publicity or career advancement.
The Spiral
No one expected this documentary to be like the others. A Variety interview with Jackson and Stapleton confirmed this. As noted by both Jackson and Stapleton,
“This is a powerful story with far-reaching human impact. It spans over decades, not just the surface-level headlines or clips we’ve seen thus far.”
Given this project’s extensive scope, it is no surprise that it would take time to piece together. Approaching such a significant topic that sheds light on hip-hop culture and even Hollywood requires careful consideration.
A Ways to Go
The update met expectations. There wasn’t much to expect. It was reassuring to know the project was on track, but it would have been nice to know how close the project was to completion. Since that was not the case, it’s a matter of waiting and seeing for now.
Barkue Tubman-Zawolo, the Chief of Staff, Talent, and Diasporic Engagement for Essence Ventures, is launching a new women’s empowerment initiative. That is worth sharing.
Barkue Tubman, also known as Tubman-Zawolo, is recognized for her commitment to empowering individuals who strive to make a difference. This time, the dynamic leader is preparing to launch POWER WalkHER Global 25 and podcast “Boss Talk.”
Women’s Empowerment and Leadership Initiative
Power WalkHER Global 25. Image Source: EPI Media Group
The Power WalkHER Global 25 is a celebration of excellence, as highlighted in a press release announcing this new initiative. Tubman-Zawolo’s diverse industry experience makes her a valuable asset wherever she contributes. Currently, this enterprising leader is channeling energy into honoring exceptional women who drive innovation and change across various continents and sectors.
Her outstanding successes in connecting women across the globe and fostering growth-oriented ventures are immeasurable. And they serve as monumental examples and strong indicators of what her program can achieve for other ambitious women.
Barkue Tubman-Zawolo: Power WalkHER Global 25
Tubman-Zawolo is a leader committed to developing others. Her history highlights her dedication to excellence and impressive leadership background, including a notable venture in the music industry. According to the African Business Club,
“Tubman has made a name for herself in the music industry, contributing to the management teams of renowned international artists such as Outkast, Usher, NEXT, and Donell Jones, among others.”
A true entrepreneur at heart, she is also the visionary behind Peace Cafe, a unique establishment in Liberia that serves as both a cafe and a hub for entrepreneurship and creativity. Additionally, she is a member of the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Center for the Development of Women and Girls.
Barkue Tubman-Zawolo: A Trailblazer
The Black Business Club proudly highlights the extraordinary journey of the granddaughter of Liberia’s former President, William V.S. Tubman. Her insightful perspective on making impactful decisions underscores her strong commitment to personal growth and community success. This dedication inspired her to launch the POWER WalkHER Global 25 initiative, a program designed to foster growth and create meaningful change.
A Legacy of Leadership
In a recent press release, Tubman-Zawolo outlined the initiative’s bold mission: to empower future generations by establishing a robust, supportive network for influential women. This vibrant community will promote collaboration and drive significant change through engaging summits, retreats, and strategic roundtables. Additionally, a dynamic upcoming podcast set to launch in December will amplify voices, inspire action, and enhance the mission of empowerment and connection.
FM Hip Hop’s Role
FM Hip Hop seeks to empower readers by sharing insights about growth opportunities in our community, helping them fully utilize available resources. This also honors Tubman’s relentless dedication to uplifting others, setting a remarkable standard of excellence that inspires us all.
IHQ, a new streaming platform, will launch with a spectacular event on November 13, 2024. This highly anticipated event will celebrate the vision of IHQ’s founder, Mercer E. Prince, who seeks to make a meaningful impact by revolutionizing the streaming industry. The evening promises to be an unforgettable marker of a dreamer’s vision becoming a reality.
New Dawn
The streaming industry has seen an uptick in entertainment options geared toward the African American populace. In a world where diversity, inclusion, and equity are crucial in all sectors, the emergence of the IHQ network is poised to make a profound impact. But how will it do so? And why is this network’s creation so essential?
IHQ at the Forefront
IHQ’s mission is to support and uplift content creators and their audiences. As stated in a press release, IHQ’s goal is to
“Empower creators to own their content while providing uplifting, educational, and entertaining programming.”
This initiative is innovative and necessary in the current media landscape. So how does IHQ plan to achieve this? In an interview with Sheen, Prince explains that IHQ allows creators to share their stories while generating revenue through a sliding-scale system. This makes the IHQ platform an obvious choice for all involved parties.
The Heartbeat of IHQ
What inspired this vision? Prince, a seasoned professional in the entertainment industry, has gained insight into the inner workings of the entertainment sphere. With this experience, he has become well-versed in industry standards and routine business practices, such as negotiating contracts. Moreover, Prince understands content creators’ growing needs. He further explains in Sheen,
“IHQ was born from my own education and realization that influencers and content creators are not properly compensated for their work. This motivated me to gain more knowledge and create a platform where all parties can benefit.”
A Lot to Offer
While this innovative platform has a specific direction, it aims to be globally inclusive. The overall goal is to reach a broader audience. As noted,
“Our content will transcend borders, bringing our message to the masses. We strive to connect with individuals who may have a limited or misinformed view of success and provide them with an empowering perspective.”
IHQ: The Launch Party
Wednesday, November 13th, will be a celebration. This event boasts an impressive lineup, featuring well-known comedians, actors, reality stars, producers, and business owners. According to the release, “attendees can expect appearances from “comedian Bruce Bruce, R&B legend Keith Sweat, celebrity Michael Jai White, influencer Jamal Morton Sr., comedian Faizon Love, reality TV stars Mendecees and Yandy Harris, producer Jazzy Pha, CEO of Mixed Chicks Brand Kim Etheredge, and multi-platinum producer Drumma Boy.” The celebration will kick off at 7 p.m. and wrap up at 10 p.m. with a lively schedule that promises an unforgettable experience.
Attendees can expect a glamorous red carpet, a pre-event reception, and memorable performances at the event. There will also be a special sneak peek at IHQ’s upcoming content offerings. Tamika Scott of the legendary female R&B group Xscape will host the evening. Guests are encouraged to dress in “After Five” cocktail attire and arrive early because of limited parking. The highly anticipated event will take place at Modex Studio on Peach Tree Road in Atlanta, Georgia.
Toasts All-Around
Let’s raise a glass to progress and the increasing support for community, culture, and content creators in the entertainment industry. And a very special thanks to forward thinkers like Prince and platforms like Radiant TV who join forces to bring these pioneering ideas to life.
Today, November 4, 2004, the music world mourns the profound loss of the legendary Quincy Jones, a visionary producer, composer, and cultural icon, who passed away at the age of 91. We honor a remarkable life dedicated to artistry and innovation, celebrating his immeasurable impact on the entertainment industry and the countless lives he touched with his extraordinary talent.
The Beginnings of A History Maker
Jones grew up in less-than-desirable living conditions on the south side of Chicago. However, one thing that he didn’t lack was musical enrichment. Young Quincy Jones was surrounded by a vibrant musical landscape. And Chicago Blues and Urban Gospel Music were significant players in that surrounding culture. Those influences had a major impact on Quincy Jones’s artistry.
Nevertheless, it wasn’t until the age of eleven that music increasingly became his sanctuary, the force that propelled him forward. There was one event in particular that would become his “North Star” moment. In the book “Quincy Jones: His Life in Music,” Clarence Bernard reflects on an early experience with delinquency that became a transformative turning point for Quincy Jones. During this time, he discovered a piano on a small stage, which changed the trajectory of his life. This moment ignited a lifelong passion for music that profoundly shaped his future.
As Bernard notes,
“When he [Jones] played music, his nightmares ended, his family problems disappeared, and he did not have to search for answers.”
Music was an oasis.
Quincy Jones: From Piano Prodigy to Musical Maestro
The piano was just the beginning for Jones. He mastered various instruments and honed his musical talents in the school band, gaining a much greater depth of experience. His formative years were characterized by explorations into film scores and arrangements, which would prove invaluable in his future endeavors. Bernard noted that Quincy Jones recalled,
“I used to babysit for Joseph Powe, my early instructor. I’d look at his Glenn Miller arranging books, and it felt like stepping into fantasyland, just to see those charts with the trombones and how they worked.”
One thing is clear from his journey: Jones’s love for music went beyond simple appreciation. The complexity, underlying elements, and the synthesis of music and sound enthralled him.
Architect of Sound in Film and Catalyst for Musical Legends
Jones stands out as an unparalleled figure in the entertainment industry. His remarkable contributions have significantly shaped iconic films in cinema history. According to Reuters, Jones composed music for nearly 40 films, such as “In the Heat of the Night,” “In Cold Blood,” “Mackenna’s Gold,” “The Wiz,” and a portion of the television mini-series “Roots.”These credits are significant and illustrate the extent of his selfless contributions.
This phenomenal personality would not only make an imprint in the movie industry but an equal one in the music industry. Reuters continues to note.
Jones worked with people who would fill a jazz or R&B hall of fame: Basie, Gillespie, Tommy Dorsey, Dinah Washington, Nat King Cole, Sarah Vaughan, and Aretha Franklin.”
Few are unaware of Quincy Jones’ monumental contributions to “The Color Purple” and Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” both of which have left a lasting mark on history. However, this is only a part of the profound influence for which Jones is renowned.
Sadly, The Hollywood Reporter notes that Quincy Jones passed away on Sunday, November 3rd. Arnold Robinson, his publicist, shared the news and a press statement the family conveyed,
“Jones died Sunday night at his Bel-air home surrounded by his family.”
A Forever Influence
Without a doubt, Jones’s spirit lives on. He will remain a revered symbol of excellence and a profound influence on music for many years to come. So today, instead of saying goodbye, FM Hip Hop expresses its gratitude by celebrating the essence of a man whose music, scores, compositions, production credits, and creative genius have propelled and continue to propel the industry forward.
One of the most critical lessons Lizzo has learned about fame is that tough skin is required. However, the artist has experienced tremendous growth. Her imaginative approach to Halloween 2024 serves as evidence of this.
The Intersection of Artistry and Appearance
Throughout her career, Lizzo has been subjected to tremendous criticism regarding her appearance. Criticisms based on a person’s appearance should not have any weight when it comes to artistry. However, the concepts of rationality do not apply to everything. Regrettably, the two characteristics, appearance and artistry, frequently overlap. The performer has discovered that a significant amount of time is frequently spent on defensive posturing, which eventually becomes exhausting.
Lizzo has not always responded well to the negative feedback. She has been very public about her dissatisfaction with the emphasis on her weight. However, while she focuses on her personal development and attempts to be more comfortable in her skin, public scrutiny appears to increase.People spread rumors. This is regardless of whether she gains or loses weight.It is a zero-sum game
Lizzo Flips the Script
In recent years, the “About Damn Time” artist has garnered significant attention for her costume choices during this season. This year, she seized the chance to transform the negative commentary from critics into a vibrant celebration
According to news outlets, people who have noticed Lizzo’s weight loss have been circulating rumors about how she achieved it. One of those rumors indicated that the singer uses a diet drug called Ozempic, which explains her weight loss.
After trying to set the record straight, Lizzo took creative license to stunt on her haters. The “You’re Special” artist dressed as an Ozempic bottle, giving her detractors something more substantive to discuss. She utilized a classic strategy of flipping the narrative: if you can’t outdo them, join them. By doing so, she took the bite out of any existent criticism.
Lizzo Redefines Her Narrative
Lizzo’s struggles have not been hidden. The “Too Be Loved” crooner has been candid about her transformation journey. In an article in Today, a particular conversation regarding such vulnerabilities she experienced went to publication. As she expressed at the time,
“I’m working on music, myself, relationships with people and food, anxiety, my body, my business, and trust issues with the world…”
From these statements, it is understood that Lizzo is in the process of wholly working on her wholeness.
The songstress has done more than expel her intentions. She has provided documented proof of her putting in the work by sharing workout videos on social media. Although many may have overlooked this, it didn’t hinder her progress, and consistency and focus paid off.
No Explanation is Needed
While Lizzo does not have to explain herself, she has chosen transparency. And to step out and make such a choice as she did demands a great deal of willpower and self-esteem. This daring and accomplished woman powered forward with a display demonstrating her evolution. That is inspiring.
So, much success to Lizzo on her journey to wholeness.
When it comes to talking about Diddy (Sean Combs) and related subjects, many people have chosen to stay silent. Chad Moss otherwise known as “Bow Wow,” selected another route, risking criticism, and received it in spades. What can we learn from this?
Bow Wow Speaks Up
Bow Wow’s recent interview sparked surprise and controversy with his unexpected remarks. He openly discussed how he felt about the noticeable changes in the industry since Combs’ arrest. According to Bow Wow, the absence of Diddy’s signature parties has left a void in the hip-hop community. As Rolling Out among other publications, has reported, the performer expressed that without Diddy’s parties, the atmosphere just doesn’t feel the same.
Weighing the Reaction: Insensitivity or Lack of Maturity
Normally, a lot of people would have disregarded this statement, but that wasn’t the case in this instance. Moss received a plethora of negative responses, criticizing him for his insensitivity. One commenter went so far as to say,
“Bow Wow is the definition of “the lights are on, but no one’s home.”
So was this an instance of just shooting from the hip without careful consideration? Was Bow Wow intently being insensitive? Or was it a lack of maturity, as the poster contended?
The Root of the Pejorative Reactions
The barrage of revelations that continue to roll in has overshadowed much of what is happening in the Hip-hop industry. And parties are not a priority; thus, making such statements seem trivial and out of place. Moss has managed to stand out as an outlier in this space in time as there remains a hush across the industry. The widespread silence has led to much chatter about the reason for the absence of commentators on the matter. Without a doubt, it is for good reasons.
The alleged goings-on during Sean (Diddy) Combs’ parties are at the heart of the many charges against him. While there was much confusion regarding these bashes and the comprehensive guest list it is now clear that there were two separate types of parties, one being the “freakoffs.” The other was known as the primary party, the least exclusive of the two. Rosci Diaz the host, who was also present at a few of these gatherings, understood the assignment. In the interview with Moss, Diaz intently noted how long she lingered at the parties she attended. As most understand, when the flames are too hot typically people avoid the backdraft.
The Fragile Balance of Vocality: Bow Wow Walks the Line
Bow Wow was certainly bold, especially when there is so much speculation about the celebrities whose names might be indicated in Diddy’s pending lawsuit. Not only was his statement bold, but it was also risky, as it could potentially distance him from his collaborators. Many people are aware that sometimes mere association can implicate someone. Thus, no one seems to be voluntarily signing up to implicate themselves. Sometimes when one does not know what to say, it’s best not to say anything at all. In this case, even when clear distinctions are made your actions become even more scrutinized.
Fault Lines
Things have gotten so heated there seems to be a noticeable chasm opening in the hip-hop industry. The fault line between those being vocal and those remaining silent continues to widen. This is likely due to fear of fallout. One statement can result in unwarranted stigma. Dame Dash’s treatment post-interview and Moss’s experience both highlight this fact. It is foolhardy for one to forget that wounds are still fresh. There is a lot at stake for all parties involved.
Perspectives, Everybody’s Got One
Everyone has the right to hold their perspectives. However, having an opinion does not automatically make it right, make it hold weight, or make it worthy of dissection. Moss seems to have been expressing how he was most affected by this turn of events. That’s it. But that didn’t stop the listening public from being incensed.
Thoughtfulness in Time of Crisis
So, let’s dissect. Moss’s remark does indicate a lack of depth and certainly points to an absence of critical thinking. After tragedies, in the aftermath of disasters, or the shadow of intense pain, being sensitive to those impacted is critical. It is not the time to take the spotlight away from more pertinent matters. This understanding underlines the adage that there is a time and place for everything. Moss seemed to have not felt it necessary to withhold his sentiments, which seemed vainglorious against what is at hand. Unfortunately, in current times, one can never truly erase a statement once it is on record. That is why one must always engage in thinking before speaking.
Moss is likely to feel the repercussions of his remarks for a while to come. Whether he chooses to acknowledge and learn from the feedback is a topic for another discussion.
The Gatekeeper Dilemma: Reevaluating Influence in Hip-Hop Culture
Moss’s presumption of Comb’s role as the perceived gatekeeper of hip-hop needs acknowledgment. As Rolling Out reports, Bow Wow described Diddy as the “gatekeeper to the game,” highlighting how recent BET Awards weekends have lacked their usual excitement and energy. Bow Wow observed, It didn’t feel right because there was no motion.
Why is this a problem? If even a small percentage within the industry shares this attitude, we must consider how much influence Combs had. Additionally, we should reconsider Dame Dash’s earlier statements about the state of hip-hop after the Diddy Debacle.
This is not just about what artists claim to be, but also about what they demonstrate to the world. It is about what hip-hop symbolizes. If there was ever a time when hip-hop was on trial, it is now. If Hip-hop’s ambassadors are portraying Hip-hop as incomplete without one person, regardless of who, then something has gone very wrong. Hip-hop has always been greater than any individual artist.
From a young age, Lucky Daye felt that music was an essential part of his life. So he pursued his passion with zeal and hunger, hoping to succeed. However, life taught him about the harsh realities of pursuing a dream, and he recently spoke candidly about one of his darkest moments in an interview on the “Bars and Nuggets” Podcast.
Learning from Lucky Daye’s Journey
Chasing a dream necessitates a specific mindset. Frequently, our desires outpace our knowledge and resources. However, as Daye discovered from his experience, chasing a dream without fully understanding the challenges and sacrifices involved can have disastrous consequences.
On Bars and Nuggets, Daye reflected on the path that led to his current success as an artist. Daye experienced a bit of opportunity earlier in his pursuits. According to Afrotech, he secured a gig with fellow New Orleans musician August Alsina. Daye ultimately decided it was time to pursue his solo career.
Struggles and Resilience
Despite his optimism and drive, he quickly realized his knowledge was inadequate. When he arrived in Los Angeles, it became clear how much he still had to learn. As he put it,
“I came to LA and I realized I did not know sh-t.”
This was just the starting point. He still had some challenges to overcome. The young dreamer soon understood the importance of financial preparedness. And with no true support system to fall back on, things got really dark.
According to Daye, he didn’t have anything. In the interview, he was sure to clarify that his difficulties may not be comparable to others, but for him what he would endure was what he defined as, “a low point.” He admits,
“It got to the point where I ran out of friends, money, and hope.”
So, in those difficult times, he had no choice but to limit his diet to water, convincing himself that he was on a water fast. When his body reached a certain point of hunger, he used the limited funds to purchase celery, as it was the only food he could afford.
Lucky Daye Rekindles the Fire Within
Perhaps the most heartbreaking moment was when he wondered if he was on the right track.
“Ever since I was a kid, people have always said, ‘You’ve got a gift.’ I realized maybe music ain’t for me, and it hurt because I swore this is my thing. This is all I’ve got.
However, there was still this spark of determination to keep moving forward. When it came to a deciding point, he had to choose whether to give it his all or pack up and leave. He ultimately decided that he knew his purpose and was willing to go to any length to achieve it. So he rebranded, reconnected, and went to work.
The Path to Success
It paid off in the end. According to Afrotech, Daye’s first album received positive reviews from notable publications such as Rolling Stone, Complex, NPR, Essence, Hypebeast, and Billboard. Additionally, Daye won four Grammys. This is noteworthy as it speaks of his character, ambition, and certainly grit.
Insightful revelations like this can be harsh, but they help to keep things in perspective. They allow idealistic dreamers to truly comprehend the dedication and perseverance required to succeed in the music industry. Each artist’s journey may differ, but it is crucial to understand the
On April 12, Sam I (Sam Spiegel) and Shmuck the Loyal (Brennan Larsen) released “Lay It Down.”Lay it Down” is a track that blends hip-hop and electronica. More accurately, it is a demonstration of skilled musical alchemy. And the particulars follow.
TRY’s Debut: “Chapter One”: A Purposeful Fusion
According to multiple sources, TRY made its debut in 2022 with the release of “Chapter One.” This, however, was not a lengthy project. The release consisted of four songs with a run time of 12 minutes and 55 seconds. Like the most recent release, “Chapter One” was a creative fusion that a duo remixed, blended, and innovated, intending to release a purposeful project. According to Prelude Press,
[Chater One] was a project meant to provide uplift and optimism born from an inspiring and frightening time. TRY, chose the path of light, acknowledging the world’s flaws while choosing to find the beauty of the human experience.
To accomplish this, they enlisted the assistance of Killah Priest (a Wu-Tang affiliate), Camden, EARTH GANG, and Miette Hope.
Meet the Collaborators: Sam I And Shmuck The Loyal
Sam I, a DJ, producer, director, and composer from New York, constitutes one-half of the duo. Reportedly, Sam I boasts an impressive collaborative portfolio. Sam I is noted as having worked with artists including Kanye West, Lizzo, Sia, Busta Rhymes, Doja Cat, Anderson.Paak, M.I.A., Maroon 5, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and countless others.
Shmuck the Loyal, the other half of the duo, is a Nashville-based songwriter and producer renowned for his experimental music. As Discogs goes on to note, “His pursuit of maximalism and a deeper, more emotive side of electronica drives his idealistic approach to production.” Wonderfully, TRY is the result of their collaboration.
Eclectic Fusion Continues
The duo returns with yet another distinctive release. And, similar to the first release, which combines house music, synth-pop, and 2 Step, “Lay it Down” maintains a notable eclectic sound signature. But, this isn’t unexpected.
As Sam I noted in an earlier interview, “We have very eclectic taste, and the record reflects that.”
Therefore, this newest piece serves as further proof of Sam I and Schmuck the Loyal’s talent for seamlessly blending various sounds. This work notably features Dream Doll, an American hip-hop/R&B artist, and Jay1, a British drill rapper, who bring the piece together with their lyrical exchange, creating an energetic offering.
Rhythmic Mastery: “Lay It Down”
“Lay It Down” has a distinctive rhythmic edge. The music’s opening measure establishes the tone for a hypnotic, captivating, and energetic track. Remarkably, the song maintains its energy throughout. The winding rhythm propels an explosive uptick that complements the hook and punctuates the verse.
Successfully, all factors work together to deliver a magnetic offering that can not be underestimated.
“Lay It Down” Is Available For Streaming
“Lay It Down,” a collaborative project between Grammy-nominated DJ and producer Sam I and Nashville songwriter Shmuck the Loyal is out. For those looking for new music, the project is available for streaming on Spotify and other platforms.
