Sham1016 Drops Cinematic New Single & Visual “Piss Me Off”

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South Central’s own Sham1016 is back with another one, delivering his latest single “Piss Me Off”, a track that blends raw lyricism with undeniable bounce. Produced by Walt Mansa, the record flips Sham’s sharp bars about “crashing out and taking fades” into a witty, head-nodding bop that feels both playful and hard-hitting at the same time.

To match the energy, Sham stepped behind the camera himself to direct the visual, bringing his vision to life alongside DP Drew Robinson. Shot mostly in black and white, the video carries a cinematic and theatrical feel that adds a whole new layer to the record. From the tone to the framing, the visuals pull you into Sham’s world while keeping the vibe cool and effortless.

With “Piss Me Off”, Sham1016 proves once again why he’s one of the most consistent and creative voices coming out of Los Angeles, always finding a way to turn his real-life stories into something you can ride to.

Charis & The Slims (C.A.T.S) Set to Release Debut Album “Unstoppable”

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In June 2025, singer-songwriter and powerhouse creative Charis Reese launched her next chapter with the formation of Charis & The Slims (C.A.T.S.) a bold new band born from her desire to fully embrace her artistry. The decision marked a pivotal shift after more than three years serving as intern-turned-COO for the legendary all-female group Klymaxx, under the mentorship of founding guitarist Cheryl Cooley.

As the first non-traditional African American woman to earn a full scholarship to The Los Angeles College of Music (LACM) for Vocal Performance, Charis set herself apart early on. Her tenure with Klymaxx was transformative, not only did she boost the band’s revenue by over $350,000, she expanded their cultural relevance by securing mainstream TV and radio appearances, managing publicity and social media, and curating visual assets from photoshoots to music videos. Most notably, she helped bring Cooley’s longtime dreams to life: producing Klymaxx’s first East Coast tour and brokering a residency at Las Vegas’ iconic Westgate Casino Resort.

Armed with those experiences, Charis made the intentional choice to invest in her own music. The results have been undeniable. She’s been a panelist for LACM at NAMM, spotlighted by Spectrum News One SoCal for her work in bringing DC’s Go-Go culture to Los Angeles, and even shared the stage with Angela Bassett in honoring Sugar Bear of EU for his timeless anthem, “Da Butt.”

Now, Charis & The Slims are preparing to share their debut body of work, the Unstoppable album, a 16-track collection that radiates energy, emotion, and authenticity. The project spans themes of love, betrayal, resilience, and joy, blending classic live instrumentation with modern edge. Earlier singles like “Unstoppable,” “Allergic” ft. Attinshun, and “Good Day” laid the foundation, while new collaborations with acclaimed producer Craig Brockman (credits include Alicia Keys, Aaliyah, and Mary J. Blige) add sonic depth on tracks such as “Don’t Leave Me Alone,” “Groove,” and “West Coast Shyt.”

The highly anticipated album drops August 23rd, 2025, accompanied by an album release celebration at Delicious Pizza & Vinyl (5419 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028) from 8:00 PM – 1:00 AM. With a lineup of feel-good songs built for both the stage and the soul, Charis & The Slims are ready to carve their lane and affirm why they are, indeed, Unstoppable. If you’re in Los Angeles or surrounding and want to catch a vibe, be sure to RSVP to the listening event HERE

BrickToYaFace Presents 909 Day – Inland Empire (California) Celebration Returns September 9th

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Riverside, CA – Inland Empire’s own Noa James x BrickToYaFace is bringing the city together once again for 909 Day, a yearly celebration of culture, music, and community pride. This year’s event goes down on Tuesday, September 9th from 7 PM to midnight at the RMA Garden Room (3485 Mission Inn Ave, Riverside, CA) and welcomes all ages for a night full of energy and love for the IE.

The evening kicks off with an Open Session (7 PM – 8 PM), giving local artists a chance to hit the stage and share their sound. Noa James will be co-hosting alongside Tanjint Wiggy, while resident DJs Dyesetta and Calligraphy keep the vibes flowing throughout the night.

This year’s lineup is stacked, featuring performances from Radio Base, Trizz, Pak Joko, Tspokes, El Segundo, Dirty Birdy, Eric Tucker, Audioking, Nick Anton, Pina, Ritual Fade, DXSKO, Teresa, Kingmak, Cam Gnarly & Midnight Snack, Judah 1, and plenty more.

On top of the music, guests can stroll through the Vendor Village, or level up their night with access to the VIP Lounge, offering a more elevated experience.

At its core, 909 Day is more than just a show, it’s a community gathering where the Inland Empire comes together to celebrate its creativity, talent, and culture. Purchase your tickets HERE

AJ McQueen & Foggieraw Deliver Nostalgic Vibes in “Blue Spirulina” Visual

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Masterful MC AJ McQueen has been carving his own lane in hip-hop for years, building a reputation for releasing timeless and purposeful music that resonates deeply with listeners. His latest project, When We Evolve, is another testament to his artistry, an album rooted in substance, connection, and growth.

One of the standout moments on the project is track #9, “Blue Spirulina” featuring Foggieraw, a record that carries a laid-back, jazz-infused vibration while delivering thought-provoking lyricism. The newly released video captures that same energy with a nostalgic aesthetic, showcasing two gifted MCs trading bars in effortless chemistry. With smooth visuals that complement the soulful sound, the track becomes more than just music, it’s a moment that feels both refreshing and timeless.

As AJ continues to connect with his audience one song at a time, the release of “Blue Spirulina” further solidifies his place as an artist to watch. And with his upcoming tour on the horizon, fans will have the chance to experience his artistry live and direct. Catch AJ McQueen in a city near you and witness firsthand the evolution of an MC who continues to inspire and elevate with every release.

Rexx Life Raj Announces the “Hella Slept On Tour” with Iman Europe & Kaelin Ellis

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Known for his introspective lyricism, silky melodies, and ability to bridge personal vulnerability with sharp social commentary, Rexx Life Raj has long been one of the Bay Area’s most respected voices. His music has carved a lane that sits comfortably between raw honesty and soulful innovation, making him a national force in every right. The Hella Slept On Tour aims to amplify that voice even further, spotlighting not only his own catalog but also two dynamic forces in music who are redefining the soundscape: Iman Europe and Kaelin Ellis.

Iman Europe, the singer-songwriter and visionary creative, brings a warm yet commanding presence that resonates across soul, R&B, and Hip-Hop and alternative spaces. Her ability to blend lush vocals with poetic storytelling has cemented her as one of the most underrated yet impactful voices of this generation. On stage, she delivers a performance that’s intimate yet powerful, with music that feels like honest and relatable.

Kaelin Ellis, the multi-genre producer, musician, and instrumental wizard, adds another dimension to the lineup. Known for his eclectic, cosmic beats and genre-defying production style, Ellis has worked with everyone from Lupe Fiasco to Kaytranada, solidifying himself as one of the most exciting music composers of today. His live sets transform into immersive experiences that intertwine with hip-hop, jazz and funk. This tour isn’t one to miss. Secure your tickets HERE Follow Iman Europe Follow Rexx Raj Life Follow Kaelin Ellis

Zoe Osama Releases “Mr. Nobody” A 20-Track Statement of West Coast Excellence

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West Coast heavyweight Zoe Osama is proving once again that he’s not just a name in the mix, he’s a force shaping the sound and spirit of LA rap. With the release of his new project, Mr. Nobody, the Empire-signed artist takes full control of his narrative, continuing the grind that has made him one of the region’s most consistent and exciting voices.

Across 20 tracks, Zoe Osama delivers a sonic soundtrack that blends street grit, and unfiltered storytelling. This isn’t a project you just skim through. Mr. Nobody is a full ride through Zoe’s world, stacked with features that enhance the energy without overshadowing his presence. Collaborations with Jayson Cash, Ab-Soul, Lil Vada, Kalan FrFR, Lefty Gunplay, and others make for a heavy tracklist.

But beyond the beats and bars, this release feels like a declaration. The title Mr. Nobody speaks to an underdog mentality, a reminder that even when the industry tries to overlook him, Zoe refuses to be boxed out. Every track is an argument for why he belongs in the conversation as one of LA’s top-tier rappers, and why his grind has earned him both respect and relevance. Be sure to stream Mr. Nobody available now on all DSPs.

Netflix Presents: “Songs From The Hole” A Raw, Redemptive Journey Through Music, Prison, and Forgiveness

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Netflix’s latest documentary, Songs from the Hole, is not just a story about incarceration, it’s an unflinching meditation on resilience, loss, and the transformative power of music. At its core is the life of JJ 88, a musician whose voice was forged in the most unlikely of places: a prison cell. Convicted of murder at the age of 15, JJ’s youth was swallowed by the justice system. But instead of surrendering to despair, he found a lifeline in creation composing raw songs that became both a diary and a prayer.

The documentary, directed and written by the masterful Contessa Gayles, alongside JJ-is more than a profile piece; it’s an emotional roller coaster ride. We witness JJ navigating the crushing grief of losing his older brother while still behind bars, a loss that could have hardened him further, but instead led him toward a deeper reckoning with himself. Through intimate interviews, prison recordings, and unvarnished moments of vulnerability, the audience sees a man wrestling with the weight of his past while battling to imagine a future defined by peace.

Music, in Songs from the Hole, is more than a soundtrack, it’s the bloodstream of the narrative. JJ’s songs emerge like spiritual testimonies, echoing through concrete walls and into the hearts of viewers. His art doesn’t shy away from pain; instead, it transforms it into something that can be felt, held, and ultimately, shared.

This is a film powered by collaboration. Alongside Gayles’ deeply human lens, producers Richie Reseda and David Felix Sutcliffe bring their own distinct commitment to justice-centered storytelling. The production team is a full list of creatives dedicated to amplifying marginalized voices, ensuring that JJ’s story isn’t flattened into a statistic but lifted as a full, breathing testament to possibility and hope.

Songs from the Hole isn’t just a documentary, it’s an invite to listen. You’ll hear a man reclaiming his life, one verse at a time. Be sure to check out this amazing story out now on Netflix. Photo Cred: Jerritt Clark

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 13: JJ’88 speaks during Netflix’s Los Angeles screening of documentary film “Songs From The Hole” at Netflix Tudum Theater on August 13, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Netflix)

JAMS The Flava Child Bets Big on Himself with Smooth Album “Roll The Dice”

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Chicago-bred, LA-based creative JAMS The Flava Child is back and he’s not playing it safe. His new 8-track project, Roll The Dice, feels like an artist fully stepping into his next chapter, fueled with witty bars, reinvention, and pure self-belief in his lifestyle.

Recorded front-to-back in Los Angeles with a fresh circle of collaborators, the album blends that Midwest grit JAMS came up on with the smooth polish of the West Coast. It’s a combination that gives Roll The Dice its own lane, grounded, yet authentic.

Tracks like “Mr. Macintosh,” “Riding On Chrome,” and “Cigars & Cappuccinos” show his range, moving from slick wordplay to laid back vibes without losing the thread of authenticity. It’s the type of project that co-exist with his roots while still pushing his sound into new territory.

With Roll The Dice, JAMS makes it clear he’s all in, and he’s making music that’s as fearless as the leap he took to create it.

Yya Makes a Bold First Impression with Genre-Blending Debut “Slide”

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Toronto born and rooted in Brazilian culture, Yya steps into the spotlight with “Slide”, a debut single that blends the bounce of Brazilian funk with the grit of Toronto’s hip-hop scene and the smoothness of R&B. It’s a track that feels fresh, confident, and full of life.

Beneath the groove, “Slide” carries a deeper meaning, one born from personal trials and hard-earned resilience. For Yya, music and poetry were more than creative outlets; they were lifelines. That honesty seeps into every lyric, making the song as real as it is catchy.

There’s a natural balance in her delivery with vulnerability wrapped in strength, coolness laced with grit. It’s the kind of debut that doesn’t just introduce an artist, it sets the tone for what’s to come.

With “Slide”, Yya shows she’s not here to blend in, she’s here to carve her own lane. Stream her new single Slide HERE on all DSP’s.

Melvin Bender Delivers Smooth Confidence on New Single “Fair Warning”

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Fresh out of Detroit and now carving his lane in Los Angeles, Melvin Bender drops “Fair Warning” a cool, confident record that sits right in the pocket between chemistry and caution.

The track captures that charged moment when you both know crossing the line could change everything. More like a mutual nod that you’re stepping into new territory. Melvin’s pen stays honest and relatable, his delivery feeling as lived in as the emotions he’s writing about.

This time around, he’s even more hands-on producing and arranging much of his own work while still linking with Grammy-winning producers for that extra layer of polish. The result is lush and modern, but never at the expense of the edge that makes his music feel so personal.

“Fair Warning” expands his Melrose universe, keeping the intimate storytelling intact while letting his style breathe in new ways. It’s smooth, it’s sharp, and it’s the kind of song that lingers after it ends.

With more music on deck, Melvin Bender is clearly in his lane and “Fair Warning” is proof he’s just warming up. Stream now HERE on all DSP’s