The Bronx’s own Ki Storii is back and she’s coming for everything that’s hers with her latest high-energy release, “Primetime.” Known for her unapologetic delivery, standout cadence, and sharp-witted bars, Ki Storii continues to carve out her lane in the game and this time, she’s got a hook so infectious that stands out.
Opening the track with a confident declaration— “Woke up this morning feeling blessed, gotta thank GOD / Bonnet sitting tight and I’m fine without makeup” Ki immediately sets the tone for an anthem that’s all about self-assurance, faith, and feminine power. Her signature punchlines cut through the beat with precision, while her flow keeps you locked in from start to finish.
Produced with a bass-heavy, head-nodding soundscape, “Primetime” is a reminder that Ki Storii isn’t just here to play, she’s here to dominate. Whether you’re getting ready to hit the streets or boss up on your goals, this record is your new soundtrack. Be sure to run it up and stream HERE on all DSP’s.
A troubling theft may have disrupted Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour. Atlanta police report that two suitcases filled with unreleased music and tour plans were stolen from a rental SUV outside Krog Street Market on July 8.
The luggage belonged to Beyoncé’s choreographer Christopher Grant and dancer Diandre Blue. Inside were laptops and hard drives packed with sensitive material—including audio files, draft setlists, and choreography notes for upcoming shows.
“Her hard drives for her upcoming show in Atlanta were stolen,” read the police report.
The SUV’s back window was smashed, and fingerprints were recovered from the scene. Police have issued an arrest warrant, but the suspect’s identity has not been made public.
With Beyoncé’s final Atlanta shows wrapping up on July 15, the theft raises serious security concerns for future tour stops. The Grammy-winning star is next set to perform in Las Vegas on July 25–26.
When you think of Death Row Records, the legendary label that gave us Tupac Shakur, Dr. Dre, and Snoop Dogg, the word “iconic” often comes to mind. But under Snoop Dogg’s leadership, Death Row is evolving, and at the center of this transformation is Jane Handcock—a soulful artist from the Bay Area who’s as versatile as she is extraordinary. Recently, Jane sat down with Sway on “Sway in the Morning” to discuss her journey, her music, and what it means to be the first lady of Death Row under Snoop’s reign. Let’s dive into her inspiring story. 🌟
From Church Choirs to the Big Stage
Jane Handcock’s story begins in Richmond, California, where she found her voice in the church choir at Saint John Missionary Baptist Church. “Church is where I developed early, without even knowing it,” she shared. “Singing in a great choir, seeing my mom shouting, and feeling all that energy—I knew I wanted to do this forever.” For Jane, the church wasn’t just a foundation for her vocal training; it was her introduction to storytelling and emotional connection through music.
It’s no surprise, then, that she credits her church upbringing for instilling the resilience needed to navigate the music industry. “When you get into this business, you’re going to face a lot of ungodly challenges,” she admitted. But faith and self-knowledge have been her anchors. “You’ve got to come into this field knowing who you are instead of trying to be somebody else.” Amen to that. 🙏
Snoop Dogg’s Vision and Death Row’s Revival
Snoop Dogg has big plans for Death Row Records, and Jane Handcock is a central part of this vision. “Snoop’s ear is crazy,” Jane revealed. “He’ll recommend a B-side track out of nowhere that’ll completely change your perspective. His energy is infectious, and he knows exactly how to guide you.”
Snoop’s belief in Jane’s talent is evident. He didn’t just sign her; he helped her embrace new dimensions of her artistry. “Snoop made it clear: ‘You’re gonna sing. No rapping. I want people to feel you.’” Jane’s latest project, It’s Me, Not You, is a testament to this guidance—a soulful album that balances funky Bay Area vibes with deep emotional introspection.
“It’s Me, Not You”: A Soundtrack for Growth
Jane describes her album as a reflection of a transformative period in her life. “This album was me trying to navigate who I was in a changing world—going from catching the bus every day to having my own apartment and lifestyle.” Tracks like “Can’t Let Go” and “Use Me” showcase her ability to blend vulnerability with empowerment. 🖤
On “Use Me,” Jane flips the narrative on being resourceful: “I’m okay with being used, just don’t misuse me. We’re all here to be utilized in some way.” This ethos of self-worth and boundaries resonates deeply, especially in an industry that often demands more than it gives.
Raphael Saadiq, Anderson .Paak, and the Power of Collaboration
Jane’s musical journey has been blessed with mentors and collaborators who believe in her talent. Raphael Saadiq, a music legend in his own right, has been instrumental in introducing Jane to industry heavyweights, including Snoop. “Ray told me, ‘Don’t sign anything. I’m gonna walk you into the right rooms.’ And he did.”
She also shared the story behind her collaboration with Anderson .Paak on the track “Stare at Me.” “I wanted to do something like ‘Funkin’ for Jamaica.’ Anderson and his team brought that vision to life in the studio. It was the first time I saw music created like that—on the spot. It was incredible.”
Facing Rejection and Rising Above
The path to success hasn’t always been smooth. Jane opened up about facing criticism in the industry for not fitting the mold. “I’ve been told I needed to lose weight or change my look. People said I wasn’t a Beyoncé or didn’t look like what the industry wanted. But those comments only fueled me.” She added, “I can’t let it dagger into me too long—I use it as fuel.”
Her resilience shines through both in her music and her outlook on life. “I’m ready for Season Two,” Jane declared, hinting at her next project. “It’s gonna be a little less insecure, a little more seasoned.”
The Future of Jane Handcock
What’s next for Jane Handcock? In addition to touring It’s Me, Not You, Jane revealed that a movie inspired by the album is in the works. Directed by Snoop Dogg, the film will bring her music to life in a whole new way. 🎬
And, of course, there’s more music on the horizon. Jane wants to amplify the Bay Area’s rich history of soul and R&B while continuing to honor her roots. “The Bay has so much soul. I want to amplify that.”
Conclusion: The One to Watch
Jane Handcock is more than an artist; she’s a storyteller, a fighter, and a beacon of authenticity. From her soulful upbringing in Richmond to her groundbreaking work with Snoop Dogg on Death Row Records, Jane is unapologetically carving her own path. “I want to do stuff that makes people feel,” she said. And she’s doing just that—one song, one story, one soul-stirring performance at a time.
What do you think of Jane Handcock’s journey so far? Are you excited about her role in the revival of Death Row Records? Let us know in the comments, and don’t forget to follow Jane on Instagram at @msjanehandcock to stay updated on her latest projects. 🚀
Los Angeles based lyrical singer and songwriter Honey Blu returns with her latest single, “Make U Mine,”a smooth and soulful offering that beautifully blends her signature style of hip-hop soul with heartfelt storytelling. The track arrives fresh off the heels of its official visual release, bringing fans even deeper into the world she’s created.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of a sunny day in L.A., “Make U Mine” captures the essence of modern romance from a confident yet vulnerable perspective. With melodic verses and relatable lyrics, Honey Blu opens up about the butterflies and bold intentions that come with falling for someone. Her poetic delivery and warm tone paint the picture of a woman who knows what she wants—and isn’t afraid to say it.
“Make U Mine”feels like a love letter to both her city and the possibilities of new love. As she continues to carve her lane in the R&B and hip-hop space, Honey Blu proves yet again why she’s one to watch.
Two of Hollywood’s brightest lights, Tisha Campbell and Wendy Raquel Robinson, recently joined “Sway in the Morning” for a lively, heartfelt conversation about their upcoming film, “Operation Aunties.” Premiering exclusively on AMC Network’s Allblk, this crypto-crime dramedy brings together comedy, drama, and real-world issues in a way that only these two powerhouses could pull off. 🌟
Celebrating Legendary Careers
The interview kicked off with a look back at the incredible resumes of Tisha and Wendy. From Tisha’s unforgettable performances in “Martin,” “Boomerang,” “School Daze,” and “My Wife and Kids,” to Wendy’s iconic roles in “The Steve Harvey Show” and “The Game,” both stars have made indelible marks on the entertainment industry. They’ve racked up Soul Train Awards, NAACP Image Award nominations, and even Emmy wins along the way. These women are more than just actors—they’re trailblazers and role models. 🎥
As Wendy shared, her journey also includes 28 years of running the Amazing Grace Conservatory, an institution that has nurtured the talents of stars like Issa Rae. For her, the arts have always been about “each one, teach one”—a sentiment echoed by Tisha, who credits her passion for acting to early mentors like Marla Gibbs, Melba Moore, and her own grandmother, who told her, “You have to be extraordinary to be considered average.”
The Heart and Humor of “Operation Aunties”
“Operation Aunties” isn’t just another movie—it’s a movement. As Wendy explained, the film tackles the dark realities of cybercrime and human trafficking, particularly their impact on Black women and youth. Blending intense drama with laugh-out-loud comedy, the film follows a group of fierce, intelligent Black women who go undercover to expose a criminal ring. Or, as Tisha calls it, “a crypto-crime dramedy with a little bit of everything.” 🎭
The project marks a new chapter for Wendy, who directed the film with a vision to highlight the strength, vulnerability, and love of Black women. “We wanted to show powerful Black women who are bold, beautiful, educated, and ballsy,” she said. Tisha added, “It’s not just funny—it’s thought-provoking. It’ll make you think twice before you hop into a ride-share.”
Sisterhood in Action
The bond between Tisha and Wendy is unmistakable. Having known each other since the 1990s, their mutual respect and admiration shine through every word. Wendy didn’t hesitate to direct “Operation Aunties” when Tisha signed on, and Tisha trusted Wendy’s storytelling so much that she agreed to the project before even reading the script. “I knew she was going to be an incredible director,” Tisha shared. “I trust her completely.”
Their camaraderie extends beyond the set. Both women emphasized the importance of uplifting others in the industry. “When one of my sisters wins, I win,” Tisha said, recounting her lifelong friendship with Tichina Arnold and their shared commitment to supporting each other’s careers. Wendy echoed the sentiment, adding, “We are here to serve others, not to be served.”
Lessons Learned and New Horizons
Despite their decades in the industry, both stars are still pushing boundaries. Tisha recently ventured into stand-up comedy, overcoming her fears to perform live. “I knew during COVID that I wanted to do everything I’d ever been afraid to try,” she revealed. Wendy, meanwhile, is thriving as a director, finding joy in bringing stories to life from behind the camera.
Their advice to aspiring artists? Be versatile. “You have to do everything,” Tisha said. “Take a writing class, create your own opportunities, and never stand in line for your career.” Wendy added, “Ask yourself if you love the art in yourself or yourself in the art. Passion is what will sustain you.”
Why “Operation Aunties” Matters
At its core, “Operation Aunties” is about more than entertainment—it’s about raising awareness and sparking conversations. With sobering statistics like Black women making up 40% of sex trafficking survivors, the film sheds light on issues that are often ignored. “We took bold, daring steps to tell this story authentically,” Wendy said. “It’s going to open eyes and hearts.”
Yet the film also celebrates joy, resilience, and community. “It’s a love letter to Black women and their strength,” Tisha explained. “It has something for everyone—comedy, drama, action, and heart.”
“Operation Aunties” premieres this Friday on AMC Network’s Allblk, and it’s a must-watch. Whether you’re drawn to its powerful storytelling, its humor, or its important social message, this film is sure to leave an impact.
As we celebrate the legacy of Tisha Campbell and Wendy Raquel Robinson, their inspiring words remind us of the power of art, the importance of sisterhood, and the joy of living with purpose. “Our seeds shall exceed us,” Wendy said, summing up their shared mission. “We’re here to water each other.” 🌱
What inspires you most about Tisha and Wendy’s journey? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to tune in to “Operation Aunties” this Friday. Let’s celebrate these incredible women and the stories they tell! 💬
Operation: Aunties Is the Bold, Cyber-Powered Action Film You Didn’t Know You Needed
Melissa De Sousa, Tisha Campbell, Amiyah Scott, and Kaye Singleton team up to dismantle a trafficking ring in this ALLBLK original premiering July 11.
In a world where digital footprints lead to real-world danger, Operation: Aunties emerges as a gripping, timely thriller that blends sisterhood, smarts, and cyber warfare into one unforgettable ride. Premiering July 11 exclusively on ALLBLK, the film stars powerhouse performers Melissa De Sousa, Tisha Campbell, Amiyah Scott, and Kaye Singleton in a high-stakes battle against a dark web trafficking operation exploiting women across the globe.
At the center of the story is Dr. Carol Cleavers (De Sousa), a renowned blockchain expert whose world is turned upside down when a family member becomes a target of a sinister cybercrime ring. Unwilling to let injustice slide, she links up with her best friend (Campbell) and an unlikely team of tech-savvy “aunties” who bring a new meaning to “ride or die.” Together, they hack into the shadows of the internet to fight back — not with badges or bullets, but with brains, bravery, and a relentless sense of purpose.
Directed by industry rising star Kaye Singleton, Operation: Aunties is a fresh take on the action genre — centering mature, Black female leads with agency, intellect, and heart. The film mixes suspense, sisterhood, and slick cyber-intrigue with sharp dialogue and empowering themes that reflect real-world issues of trafficking and digital justice.
The trailer just dropped, and it’s already creating buzz across social media with fans praising its originality, style, and unapologetic energy. From firewalls to firearms, these aunties are not to be messed with.
Make sure to tune in to Operation: Auntiesstarting July 11 — only on ALLBLK — and witness a new kind of hero rise from the cloud.
Congolese-Canadian artist Lu’ just slid through with a feel-good banger that’s got the streets and timelines buzzing. His latest drop, “Frisky” featuring TGETruth, is a high-energy blend of Afrobeats, trap, and straight-up global vibes. This joint is already going crazy on TikTok popping up in our algorithms heavy.
Lu’, coming off the wave of his debut EPGold Linen, keeps leveling up with a sound that’s both grounded and futuristic. Then you bring in TGETruth, lacing it with a little southern grit.
“Frisky is that instant spark — that unspoken connection,” Lu’ shares. “Seeing people catch that feeling and flip it into their own expression has been wild.”
This one’s for the ones who don’t gotta say much, the energy speaks for itself. Be sure to add it to your playlist, check out the visual below and stream Frisky available now on DSP’s HERE
Emerging hip-hop artist Vincent Manzullo, originally hailing from New Jersey and now planting roots in Los Angeles, steps into the spotlight with the release of his powerful new single, “Story That I Tell.” Blending alternative rap elements with introspective lyricism, the track is a meditative offering that aims to uplift and heal in a world that often feels chaotic and divided.
“Story That I Tell” showcases Manzullo’s ability to fuse raw emotion with poetic storytelling, all while staying grounded in a message of self-awareness and peace. Over a mellow yet genre-blurring instrumental, Manzullo delivers poignant lines like, “You have to learn to love yourself, preach good and spread wealth,” reminding listeners of the importance of inner peace and community upliftment. If you’re a new fan on Manzullo now is a good time to get familiar with the emerging artist.
Rising artist itsHoly is turning heads and commanding attention with his latest high-energy single, “Showstoppa.” A bold, uptempo record laced with confidence and charisma, “Showstoppa” is more than just a vibe, it’s a declaration of strength, self-belief, and triumph over adversity.
For itsHoly, this record holds deep personal significance. “This song means a lot to me because it was the very first track I recorded in my hometown with my family in attendance,” he shares. “If that wasn’t surreal enough, André 3000 stopped by my session while I was in the booth. That moment solidified the magic I felt while creating this song.”
Rooted in a spirit of perseverance, “Showstoppa” reflects the journey of overcoming life’s toughest obstacles and emerging with undeniable shine. It’s a sonic celebration of resilience—a soundtrack for anyone who’s ever had to grind their way through hardship and still walk with their head high.
PA The Writer cliqued up with the gang again to drop a video for their anthem “We The Nupes”. Catch the guys at an HBCU near you this fall as they will be performing at step shows, homecoming and much more.
