Exclusive: “Soul Ties” Music Video: Nejma Nefertiti Featuring 80 Empire

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“Soul Ties,” the latest official video and single from Hip Hop luminary Nejma Nefertiti, embarks on a captivating journey, tracing the evolution of her artistry. Collaborating with videographer and fellow Hip Hop virtuoso NorKin4life, this cinematic masterpiece delves deep into the intricate narratives surrounding women in Hip Hop.

Related: The Wu-Tang Clan American Saga Final Season: A Celebration of Hip-Hop with Sway’s Universe

Profound symbols and evocative imagery eloquently explore themes of love, soul connections, and the enduring nature of the human spirit. With the addition of 80 Empire on the hook, “Soul Ties” provides a refreshing and dynamic perspective within the Hip Hop landscape, maintaining unwavering authenticity while pushing the boundaries of creativity. A testament to the pinnacle of Hip Hop Culture, this video stands as a transcendent, inspirational, and audacious manifesto that nourishes the spirit and elevates the heart—a celebration of remembering love.

The canvas and rhythmic foundation upon which the vibrant tales of “Soul Ties” are vividly painted is brought to you by Trife for JunkiesAtl, and is the second single off Nejma Nefertiti’s upcoming album, which he produced entirely.

Watch “Soul Ties” below.

D-Dot aka The Mad Rapper Drops Black Rob’s Life Story 2

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Black Rob fans, rejoice! The posthumous album “Life Story 2” just dropped, and it is a must-listen. Executive produced by none other than Deric “DDot” Angelettie a.k.a The Mad Rapper, the album features collaborations with Black Thought, Faith Evans, Kid Capri, Diddy, Smoke Dza, and many others. In a recent interview on Sway In The Morning, D-Dot spills the tea on working with iconic musicians, his role in shaping Bad Boy’s distinctive sound, and the captivating stories behind Black Rob’s latest album.

D-Dot is a legend in hip hop, and rightly so. He has been an essential producer, songwriter, and performer in the industry since his early days working with heavy hitters like Mary J. Blige. His unique bond with Black Rob goes way back, and he talks about it candidly in the interview with Sway. D-Dot details how they met, how he came to work on Life Story 2, and the creative process behind some of the album’s standout tracks.

One of the most exciting parts of the interview is when D-Dot takes us behind the scenes of Bad Boy’s iconic sound. He explains how he and other producers created the beats that became instant hits, like “Hypnotized” and “All About the Benjamins.” He also talks about the label’s willingness to take risks and experiment with new sounds. D-Dot emphasizes how vital it is for musicians to innovate and break boundaries, and his work with Bad Boy proves that he walks the talk.

In the interview, D-Dot is also very honest about the highs and lows of the industry. He talks about the intense pressure and competition that musicians face and the importance of staying resilient and focused on your craft. He shares personal stories of adversity and comeback, giving insight into the gritty reality behind the glamour of the music world.

Finally, D-Dot gives us a sneak peek into the making of Life Story 2. He talks about the artists who collaborated on the album and their unique contributions, discussing how the different styles melded together to create a potent musical cocktail. He shares his thoughts on Black Rob’s legacy and the impact of his untimely passing.

D-Dot’s interview with Sway is a must-watch for hip hop lovers and anyone interested in the music industry. His candid reflections on his life and work are inspiring and informative, and his insights into creating iconic tracks are beyond fascinating. Black Rob’s Life Story 2 is a fitting tribute to the rapper and serves as a reminder of the profound contribution he made to the world of music. D-Dot’s work on the album is nothing short of genius, and his willingness to share his process and stories with us is a true gift. So, go check out Life Story 2 and listen to D-Dot’s interview – you won’t regret it!

JODECI Is Coming To Las Vegas! | Get Ready For An Epic House Of Blues Residency!

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For R&B fans, there’s nothing like a live performance from one of the genre’s greatest acts. And now, Jodeci, one of the most influential R&B groups of all time, is set to begin their Las Vegas residency at the House of Blues Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino starting in March 2024. JODECI – THE SHOW, THE AFTER PARTY, THE VEGAS RESIDENCY is set to kick off on March 15th, 2024, with tickets going on sale to the general public on December 16th, 2023. Fans can secure their seats during the fan pre-sale beginning on December 13th, 2023.

Jodeci’s residency is set to be nothing short of spectacular, offering fans a much-anticipated opportunity to see the legendary group perform live. The residency is scheduled for ten shows in total, with the initial performances taking place in March and July.

For Jodeci fans who want to secure their tickets early, there are a few pre-sale opportunities available. Fan pre-sale tickets will be available beginning Wednesday, December 13th, at 10 a.m. PT. Citi is the official card of Jodeci’s Las Vegas residency, and Citi cardmembers will have access to pre-sale tickets for Jodeci beginning on the same day at 10 a.m. PT through the Citi Entertainment program.

On December 14th at 10 a.m. PT, House of Blues, Live Nation, and Ticketmaster customers will gain access to a pre-sale for Jodeci’s residency. All pre-sales will come to an end on December 15th at 10 p.m. PT.

Here are the dates for Jodeci’s Las Vegas residency:

• Friday, March 15
• Saturday, March 16
• Wednesday, March 20
• Saturday, March 23
• Sunday, March 24
• Friday, July 5
• Saturday, July 6
• Wednesday, July 10
• Friday, July 12
• Saturday, July 13

As Jodeci prepares to begin their Las Vegas residency at the House of Blues Las Vegas, fans are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to see this legendary group perform live. So, mark your calendars and get ready for JODECI – THE SHOW, THE AFTER PARTY, THE VEGAS RESIDENCY beginning in March 2024!

Queens Legend Royal Flush Reveals His Battle With Lymphoma Cancer

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Renowned Queens NYC hip-hop artist, Royal Flush, recently paid a visit to Sway In The Morning to discuss his latest project, “The Royal Price Show”. This collab album is a tribute to the late great Sean Price, an influential figure in the hip-hop industry.

The album features contributions from established names such as Cassidy, J.Sos, Ali Vegas, Tragedy Khadafi, Nature, and Grafh, cementing its status as a must-listen for any hip-hop fan.

In addition to “The Royal Price Show”, Royal Flush released a solo album this year titled “The Sit Down”, further solidifying his footprint in the hip-hop scene.

However, the conversation took a serious turn as Royal Flush shared his ongoing battle with Lymphoma Cancer. This condition has led to the development of more than 180 tumors in his body, a daunting health challenge that the artist is bravely confronting. In response to mounting medical expenses, Royal Flush has established a GoFundMe campaign to assist with hospital bills.

Let’s rally around one of our legends in this testing time, reminding him that the hip-hop community stands together in the face of adversity.

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25 Must Have Books This Holiday Season

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The Sway’s Universe Team has compiled an enticing spread of 25 must-read books for this holiday season. Our list spans a variety of genres, from youth books to biographies, cooking, drama, financial literacy, inspirational, instructional, and sensory books.

Youth Books:

  1. ‘Raising Kings: 10 Principles of Manhood’ by Mysonne Linen and Heddrick McBride: A powerful guide for young men navigating their path towards adulthood.
  2. ‘Magic Hair’ by Raquel Hudson: A celebration of identity, embracing and loving one’s natural hair.
  3. ‘Nubia: The Reckoning’ by Omar Epps: A thrilling superhero story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
  4. ‘Little Daymond Learns to Earn’ by Daymond John: A delightful book that teaches the value of money and hard work.

Biographical Books:

  1. ‘Omegle Bars 100’ by Harry Mack: A book full of freestyle rap adventures from the renowned freestyler Harry Mack.
  2. ‘The Upcycled Self’ by Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter: A deep dive into the journey of reinvention and self-discovery.
  3. ‘Behind The Hits’ by Christopher ‘Drumma Boy’ Gholson: Chronicles of his musical journey and the creation of his greatest hits.
  4. ‘Chronicles of the Juice Man: A Memoir’ by Juicy J: An intimate insight into the life and times of Juicy J.
  5. ‘Unbroken’ by Dr. Trisha Bailey: An inspiring story of resilience and determination.
  6. ‘Tupac Shakur: The Authorized Biography’ by Staci Robinson: An authorized biography that provides an inside look into Tupac Shakur’s life and legacy.
  7. “Dilla Time”: The Life, Legacy, and Musical Genius of J Dilla by Dan Charnas: A detailed account of the life and career of the late hip-hop producer J Dilla.

Cooking Books:

  1. ‘Goon with the Spoon’ by Snoop Dogg and Earl “E-40” Stevens: A fun and flavorful journey into the kitchens of Snoop Dogg and E-40.
  2. ‘Eat Smarter Family Cookbook: 100 Delicious Recipes to Transform Your Health, Happiness, and Connection’ by Shawn Stevenson: A collection of wholesome, family-friendly recipes.

Drama Books:

  1. ‘Flipping Boxcars’ by Cedric The Entertainer: A riveting tale of resilience, despair, and redemption.
  2. ‘Laws of Annihilation (Martyr Maker, 3)’ by Eriq LaSalle: The third installment in the Martyr Maker series, filled with intrigue and suspense.

Inspirational Books:

  1. ‘Adversity for Sale: Ya Gotta Believe’ by Jay “Jeezy” Jenkins: A book on overcoming adversity and achieving greatness.
  2. ‘The Streets Win: A Triumph of Hip-Hop Culture’ by LL Cool J: An insightful exploration of hip-hop culture’s triumph over adversity.
  3. ‘Unbothered’ by Omarion: A guide to achieving peace and tranquility amidst chaos.
  4. ‘The Urgent Life’ by Bozoma Saint John: A look into embracing life’s urgency in the pursuit of success.

Instructional Books:

  1. ‘When We All Get Together’ by Alexis H. Moore: When We All Get Together is a guide designed to help a host/hostess tap into a deeper level of cultivating intimate gatherings.
  1. ‘Chump Change Big Gains Right Games’ by Patrick “DJ Ampz” Adams: A guide to financial success through smart investments.
  2. ‘The Ten Dad Commandments’ by Esteban Serrano: A must-read for fathers seeking to balance fatherhood and personal growth.

Sensory Books:

  1. ‘Curious Sounds’ by Chef Roger Mooking: A sensory delight, combining cooking and soundscapes.

Financial Literacy Books:

  1. ‘Why Should White Guys Have All the Wealth?’ by Cedric Nash An eye-opening exploration of the racial wealth gap in America.

History Books:

  1. ‘Precolonial Black Africa’ by Cheikh Anta Diop: A comprehensive look into the ancient civilizations of Black Africa.

These books not only make for great reading, but also serve as wonderful gifts for loved ones this holiday season. Expand your mind and broaden your horizons with these 25 must-read books, carefully curated by Sway’s Universe Team. Happy reading! Happy Holidays from the Sway’s Universe Team! Keep checking our website for more book recommendations and updates on all things entertainment, culture, and lifestyle.

Pink Friday 2: Nicki Minaj’s Gift to Fans

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Attention all Barbz! The wait is over. Nicki Minaj’s highly-anticipated album, Pink Friday 2, has finally arrived. With an extensive 22 tracks and features from some of the biggest names in the industry, including Drake, J. Cole, Lil Wayne, and Future, this project promises to be nothing short of epic. In typical Nicki fashion, the Queen of Rap has declared that this will be “one of the greatest albums of ALL TIME.” Nicki Also announced the Pink Friday 2 World Tour. See dates below.

Pink Friday 2 is everything that Nicki Minaj fans could have hoped for and more. It’s a testament to her talent and versatility as an artist, and a gift to her fans on her 41st birthday. From the production to the features to the sequencing of tracks, everything about this album is top-notch. Nicki’s claim that it will be “one of the greatest albums of ALL TIME” might be bold, but it’s not unfounded. If you’re a Barb or a fan of hip-hop in general, do yourself a favor and give this album a listen. You won’t be disappointed. Listen Below.

The Secret Record Leak: Lil Kim & Nicki Minaj’s Untold Story! 

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In this explosive video, music industry titan D-Dot shares the inside scoop on a secret record that could have changed the course of hip-hop history. Imagine a world where Nicki Minaj, then known as Nicki Mirage, joins forces with Lil Kim under the guidance of a hip-hop maestro. It nearly happened, and the details are just a play button away.

Witness the candid conversation that uncovers the one that got away – a track featuring two of the fiercest female MCs in the game. This revelation is more than just a ‘what if’ – it’s a peek into the early days of #MixtapeNicki and the opportunity that slipped through the cracks. Delve into this controversial narrative and learn why this groundbreaking collaboration was never meant for our ears, yet still echoes in the halls of hip-hop lore. Don’t miss out on more unprecedented interviews and exclusive content from Sway’s Universe – the authority on all things music and culture.

Director Rashidi Harper Lights Up The Film Scene with ‘Headliners Only’

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Renowned Director and Producer, Rashidi Harper, recently joined the team at Sway In The Morning to discuss his latest cinematic masterpiece, ‘Headliners Only’. This documentary-style film is set to shake the Netflix platform and viewers’ hearts alike on its premiere this December 12th.

‘Headliners Only’ is a captivating exploration of the comedy scene featuring industry titans, Kevin Hart and Chris Rock. As the title suggests, this film is all about the elites, the top-tier jesters who have perfected the craft of making people laugh.

Harper’s film is not just a documentary, but a captivating journey that follows Kevin Hart and Chris Rock as they descend upon New York City for a week of sold-out shows. This illuminating narrative captures the comedic geniuses in their element, showcasing their unique ability to captivate audiences and fill rooms with laughter.

The film aims to provide a front-row seat to the world of stand-up comedy, offering viewers a glimpse into the sometimes glamorous, often demanding, and always entertaining life of headlining comedians. It’s a rare opportunity to witness the magic and the madness behind the curtain, and a chance to see two comedy legends in action.

Mark your calendars, because ‘Kevin Hart & Chris Rock: Headliners Only’ is hitting Netflix globally on December 12. Prepare for a roller coaster of emotions and non-stop laughter, as these comedy icons take the stage. In the meantime, let’s hear it for Rashidi Harper, the creative mind who brought this project to life and is sure to leave a lasting impression on the film industry.

LL COOL J Presents The Streets Win: A Triumph of Hip-Hop Culture

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In celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, a genre that has spurred an influential culture, redefined sound, and given an edge to American music, comes a momentous volume, ‘LL COOL J Presents The Streets Win’. Co-authored by hip-hop luminary LL COOL J, esteemed journalist Vikki Tobak, and Rock The Bells’ editorial director Alec Banks, this volume not only commemorates the inception of hip-hop but also charts its meteoric rise and continual evolution.

These authors present an intimate and detailed journey into the heart of hip-hop through a visually arresting collection of rarely seen photographs. From humble beginnings at block party performances to high-energy recording studio sessions, the genre’s journey is captured in all its vibrancy. The images, an artistic blend of street shots, parties, and intimate sessions, are punctuated by first-person recollections from key figures within the hip-hop community.

Recounted stories reveal the experiences of hip-hop’s MCs, B-Boys, graffiti artists, and DJs – their initial encounters with hip-hop, their breakthroughs in the industry, their style inspirations, and their thoughts on the genre’s culture and music. These narratives are woven from the experiences of luminaries such as DJ Kool Herc, Salt-N-Pepa, MC Lyte, KRS-One, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Grandmaster Flash, Run-D.M.C., Beastie Boys, De La Soul, Slick Rick, Public Enemy, Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Nas, A Tribe Called Quest, Big Daddy Kane, Fat Joe, DJ Khaled and many more.

The pages of this commemorative volume are a visual feast, showcasing images by renowned hip-hop photographers like Joe Conzo Jr., Ernie “Brother Ernie” Paniccioli, Jonathan Mannion, Janette Beckman, Estevan Oriol, Jamel Shabazz, Mike Miller, Clay Patrick McBride, and others. Sprinkled throughout are fascinating ephemera, including album covers, notebook sketches, lyrics, party announcements, street scenes, clothing, and graffiti art.

‘LL COOL J Presents The Streets Win’ immortalizes the past fifty years of hip-hop, making it a must-have keepsake for both music and photography enthusiasts as it encapsulates the most important origin stories from a half-century of hip-hop culture.

BUY HERE

Legends Only x Art Basel Weekend in Miami: A Celebration of Hip-Hop Culture

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Get ready to immerse yourself in a three-day cultural extravaganza filled with music, art, and all things Hip-Hop. Legends Only x Art Basel Weekend is coming to Essentials Gallery in Miami, FL, from December 7-9, 2023. This event is a celebration of urban culture, bringing together diverse artists from different elements of Hip-Hop, DJ, and Art. With performances by legends such as DJ Paul and Freddie Gibbs, as well as rising superstar Stove God Cooks, this weekend is not one to miss.

Hip-Hop has been a dominant force in the world for more than four decades, and Legends Only x Art Basel Weekend captures the essence and energy of this vibrant culture. The event is designed to bring a sense of community to artists from all walks of life, promoting peace, unity, love, and fun. With three days of immersive art, dance, DJ demonstrations, and live music, Legends Only x Art Basel Weekend is the place to be, where you can truly live and breathe the Hip-Hop culture.

While many events focus solely on music, Legends Only x Art Basel Weekend offers more. Visitors can participate in live art events and immersive experiences that will engage all the senses. This contemporary event will highlight Hip Hop’s significance as a cultural movement and a thriving force in the world of entertainment.

On the first night of the celebration, attendees can witness a dynamic performance from Memphis Hip-Hop legend, DJ Paul. He will set the tone with his signature style of DJing that will bring people together from all walks of life. The next day, Grammy-nominated artist Freddie Gibbs will take center stage with a rare headline set. The final day of the event boasts a performance from Stove God Cooks, a rising star who is making waves in the Hip-Hop scene.

Throughout the event, organizers will include special guest performances and appearances to add to the excitement. Legends Only x Art Basel Weekend is not only an extravaganza for Hip-Hop lovers, but also a family-friendly event that welcomes people of all ages.

Legends Only x Art Basel Weekend is a cultural experience that will take you on an unforgettable journey of music, art, and freedom. This event is the perfect destination for anyone wanting to engage with the Hip-Hop culture in a meaningful and immersive way. So, seize the opportunity to be a part of this celebration and experience the full depth of what Hip-Hop culture has to offer. Individual day and three-day passes are now available here. Do not miss it!