Mary J. Blige Partners with Pepsi For The Third Annual Strength Of A Woman Festival

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In the heart of New York City, a celebration of strength, talent, and empowerment takes shape under the auspices of Mary J. Blige and Pepsi. The third annual Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit, forged through the partnership of these titans with Live Nation Urban, promises an unforgettable three-day showcase of music, comedy, and empowering sessions designed to uplift and inspire. With the iconic cityscape of the Big Apple as its backdrop, the festival not only marks a homecoming for the Queen of Hip-Hop Soul but also stands as a beacon of female power and unity.

Set against the vibrant celebration of Women’s History Month, the festival is a clarion call to all seeking inspiration, community, and entertainment. With an all-star lineup featuring performances by legends such as Mary J. Blige herself, 50 Cent, Jill Scott, and a host of others, the festival is poised to once again sell out swiftly, continuing its legacy of iconic moments and community engagement. Beyond music, the event’s rich tapestry includes comedy showcases and a soul-stirring Gospel Brunch, all curated to foster an environment where women’s voices and achievements are celebrated in grandeur.

Mary J. Blige’s vision for the Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit extends far beyond mere entertainment; it’s a mission to amplify and empower BIPOC women through an immersive experience that spans music, wellness, technology, beauty, and financial literacy. This initiative is more than a festival; it’s a movement towards fostering a world where women, especially those underrepresented, find joy, community, and empowerment. Supported passionately by Pepsi, the festival also shines a spotlight on local Black female restaurateurs, enriching the experience with culinary excellence.

The Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit is not just an event; it’s a testament to the enduring power of community, music, and the indomitable spirit of women. As it gears up to take New York City by storm this spring, it beckons us to join in solidarity, celebration, and empowerment.

Friday, May 10, 2024

Comedy Show @ The Apollo Theatre – Performances by Tiffany Haddish, Don’t Call me White Girl, and Paris Sashay

Jazz Concert @ Blue Note Jazz Club – Performance by Robert Glasper

Saturday, May 11, 2024

Strength of a Woman Summit @ The Glasshouse (Hosted by Angie Martinez)

Strength of a Woman Concert @ Barclays – Performances by Mary J. Blige, 50 Cent, Jill Scott, Fat Joe, Jadakiss, Muni Long, Lola Brooke, and Funk Flex

Sunday, May 12, 2024

Gospel Brunch @ Brooklyn Chophouse in Times Square (Hosted by Mary J. Blige)

Gospel Concert @ Brooklyn Paramount – Performance by The Clark Sisters with Femme It Forward

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ElCamino & Real Bad Man Team Up with Boldy James for “No Fighting”

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This season, all eyes are on a dope collab that’s about to shake up your playlist. ElCamino & Real Bad Man, along with Boldy James, have come together on the new single, “No Fighting.”

This track offers a deep listening journey, blending ElCamino’s raw storytelling with Real Bad Man’s creative beats, with the signature Boldy James’ sound. It’s a mix that’s captivating and thought-provoking, inviting you into a world where every verse and beat hits home.

“No Fighting” is just a taste of their upcoming joint project, “The Game Is The Game,” dropping on March 15th. This single sets the stage for what’s bound to be a game-changing album, showcasing the duo’s incredible chemistry and shared vision.

In a world hungry for real music, “No Fighting” shows the power of influential artists coming together. Hit play, pop it on your favorite playlist, and dive into the music that’s about to take over the airwaves.

DJ gWiz Sway In The Morning Mix 3-5-2024

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DJ gWiz, a Mount Vernon, NY native with over 15 years of experience in the industry, recently showcased his talent on Sway In The Morning. Known for his electrifying mixes, gWiz has graced top platforms like Hot 97, SiriusXM Radio, and more.

He’s spun tracks for big names like Notorious B.I.G. and Old Dirty Bastard. Plus, he hosts the DJ game show competition Turn the Tables with Pretty Lou.

Press play on that mix ASAP.

The Ultimate Survival Guide to Rolling Loud Festival

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Ladies and gentlemen, hip-hop heads, and festival aficionados, mark your calendars because the world’s premier hip-hop festival, Rolling Loud, is gearing up to shake the grounds of Hollywood Park in Inglewood, California from March 14th to 17th. With a lineup that reads like the Who’s Who of the rap game universe, this isn’t just any festival — it’s a pilgrimage for anyone who eats, sleeps, and breathes beats.

The Bold and The Loudest

The pulse-pounding festival, known for its unwavering energy and memorable performances, is promising an extravaganza featuring more than a hundred hip-hop artists across three jam-packed days and three electrifying stages. For those looking to immerse themselves in an auditory adventure like no other, here’s how each day is slated to unfold.

Thursday – Kickstarting the Madness

Day one will be the starting gun, with Ye & Ty Dolla $ign leading the charge from 5 PM to 10 PM, setting the benchmark high for the rest of the weekend.

Friday – Volume To The Max

On Friday, the intensity rises as Nicki Minaj, YG, Tyga, and a slew of other titans hold court from 3 PM to 11 PM.

Saturday – Underground To The Mainstream

This is the day where underground legends shine alongside mainstream heroes like Post Malone, Summer Walker, Big Sean, and Larry June, keeping the beats alive from 1 PM to 11 PM.

Sunday – A Legendary Finish

And finally, Sunday caps it off with an all-star cast including Future, Metro Boomin, Don Toliver, Bryson Tiller, and Chief Keef, ensuring that the energy doesn’t dim from 1 PM to 10 PM.

The Nitty-Gritty of Rolling Loud

But to thrive in this festival jungle, you need more than a mere ticket. You need a survival guide worthy of the event. Here’s how to ready yourself for the head-spinning days ahead.

General Tips for Survival

What to Know Before You Go

Before you even step out the door, here’s what you need to know. Rolling Loud California doesn’t budge on age — you have to be 16+ to feel the vibes. And a word to wise, steer clear of scalpers and scammers; the only legitimate place to buy this experience is through official channels.

What to Bring – Acceptable Items

Your preparation doesn’t stop with the lineup. Pack these festival-appropriate items, including your best dance moves. Think eye drops, hats, ponchos, medication (sealed and labeled), and a single non-metallic water bottle (32 oz, and make sure it’s empty upon entry).

What to Toss – Prohibited Items

This event means business when it comes to prohibited items. Hoverboards and chains are as welcome as a storm in a paper cup. Leave your full face coverings, gladrags, and glass containers at home. And while you might need them after a mind-blowing set, selfie sticks and thermal mists are on the no-go list.

The Not-So-Fine Print but Important

Get familiar with the fine print — no re-entry allowed, no camping grounds, and absolutely no weapons of any kind will be tolerated. Make sure any questionable items are left behind, or you might be the one to miss the show.

Personal Safety and Enjoyment

Stay Hydrated and Protected

With the relentless beats and the California sun, staying hydrated is key. Keep your empty water bottle ready for refill within the premises, and slather on non-aerosol sunblock to avoid any impromptu sunburn-inspired dance-offs.

Look Out for Each Other

Travel in packs, watch out for each other, and have a designated meeting spot within the grounds. This way, even if you’re separated by a wall of vibing fans, the tribe is a call or a dance sign away.

Festival Fun Without a Worry

Immerse yourself in the festival’s spirit while being mindful. Leave the stash at home, the moshing to the hardcore metal fans, and the final towels in the car. With the festivities in full swing, all other worries can be set aside.

Post-Festival: Memories and Cleanups

The Memories

Festivals like Rolling Loud craft indelible memories, so make sure your smartphone or cameras are charged to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments.

The Cleanup

Finally, remember that with every epic event comes a responsibility. Keep your festival footprints light; if you brought it in, bring it out. Keep Hollywood Park legendary in its cleanness as it is in its festival performance.

Prepare for the time of your life at Rolling Loud, where music is a rite of passage, and satisfaction is a sonic beat away. Be informed, be prepped, and most importantly, be ready to lose yourself in the music, amongst a sea of kindred spirits. And remember, the ultimate survival guide is the ticket to an ultimate experience.

Rolling Loud isn’t just a festival; it’s an institution, a legacy, and above all, an auditory testament to the very best the culture has to offer. It’s more than music; it’s a movement. Now, are you ready to roll loud? This handbook should’ve set the stage for a festival experience that’s both exhilarating and worry-free. Get ready to roll into the loud; the California grounds await your presence.

Unpacking the Vibes: Reggae Rise Up Florida 2024

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For the lovers of good music and good vibes, Reggae Rise Up Florida 2024 promises to be the very essence of what Reggae stands for — a soul-stirring amalgamation of rhythm, harmony, and conscious messages. Set against the backdrop of the sun-kissed wonderland of St. Petersburg, the four-day extravaganza beckons both the seasoned Reggae afficionado and the casual groove-seeker. It’s all about the music — and it’s in every beat, every note, and every strum.

The drums start rolling at Vinoy Park on March 14th, with a lineup that reads like the ‘Who’s Who’ of the Reggae and related genres, ready to cast a spell that will last long after the last chord fades away.

Musical Journey Through the Days

Thursday March 14th

From the moment the gates swing open at 4:00 PM, the inaugural day welcomes you to ease into the festival with tunes from artists like the Dirty Heads and Lupe Fiasco. This mellow opener is the perfect way to wind down and tune in to the spirit of unity that Reggae represents.

Friday, March 15th

Kicking things up a notch, Friday starts the musical marathon early at 12:00 PM. The day is set to feature energetic performances from favorites such as Rebelution and SOJA, ensuring that the crowd is on its feet, swaying to the upbeat tempo that echoes the festival spirit.

Saturday, March 16th

For those who wish to immerse themselves fully, the festivities start at noon, with much-anticipated shows by Slightly Stoopid, and Iration. A surprise addition to the lineup is Yelawolf, who brings a fresh, cutting edge to the Reggae canvas, igniting the audience with a genre-defying performance that underlines the festival’s inclusive philosophy.

Sunday, March 17th

The final day of the festival is a crescendo, a grand celebration of all things Reggae. The monumental lineup includes legends like Damian Jr. Gong & Stephen Marley, and the iconic Burning Spear, who deliver performances that echo the genre’s rich history while keeping an eye on its dynamic evolution.

Fest Prep and Survival Guide

Packing Essentials

Your festival checklist should include essentials like blankets or a yoga mat for seating, a refillable water bottle, and limited snacks to keep the good-energy levels high throughout the day. Comfort is key, so pack sunscreen, bug spray, and a hat. Musical instruments may not be allowed, but your good vibes certainly are! Remember to charge your phone fully and consider packing a portable charger so you can keep snapping and sharing the memorable moments.

Dress Code

Festivals are more than just about the music; they’re a celebration of tribal togetherness. Dress the part, with flowy and comfortable clothing, or go all out with the traditional Red, Gold, and Green colors of the Rastafarian flag. Footwear is crucial — opt for something sturdy yet comfortable as you will be dancing all day and night.

Hydration and Stamina

Staying hydrated is non-negotiable, especially under the Florida sun. Festival organizers ensure there are water stations, so you can keep your bottle filled. To maintain your stamina, plan short breaks, visit the food vendors offering a variety of cuisines, and take part in the occasional chill-out jam found in the shaded chill spots throughout the park.

When the Music Stops

Festival Nightlife

While the park hosts the official after-parties, if you’re up for more, St. Pete’s local scene is brimming with energy. From local bars with live music to renowned clubs playing the hottest hits, the city knows how to keep the beat going until the sunrise.

Recovery and Reflection

After the final show, take a moment to breathe and reflect on the moments that defined your Reggae experience. Indulge in some local cuisine, visit the city’s landmarks, or simply unwind on the beach and listen to the waves, letting the soothing sounds erase the last remnants of festival fatigue.

Spreading the Good Vibes

Reggae is not just a genre; it’s a way of life that emphasizes love, unity, and a fight for social justice. The festival encourages sustainability, and as a participant, you contribute to the preservation of the environment. Engage with the community, support local artists, and spread awareness about the causes championed by the Reggae movement.

Lose yourself in the music, find yourself in the movement – Reggae Rise Up Florida 2024 is more than just a festival; it’s a cultural testament that binds people through the universal language of music, promoting greater harmony and understanding. Make sure to book your tickets for this transformational experience that promises memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime. After all, in a world that tends to get too heavy, it’s the rhythm that lightens the load.

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BSF’s Sule Drops New Video for “Courtesy Inn”

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With the drop of “Courtesy Inn,” SULE once again grabs attention in the music scene, blending storytelling and rhythm that set him apart in hip-hop circles. Found in his latest project, Written On Wides Corner, this track isn’t just music; it’s a vivid story pulling you into SULE’s artistic world. Check out the video below.

Written On Wides Corner is SULE’s dedication shining through. Teaming up with talents like Benny The Butcher, Inspectah Deck, Fuego Base, and Sy Ari Da Kid, this project is a mix of diverse voices enriching the album. Each artist adds their unique touch, elevating the listening adventure.

The “Courtesy Inn” video isn’t just a new drop; it’s an adventure. SULE dives deeper into his music’s narratives and themes through visuals, giving a rich experience for hip-hop fans worldwide. His skill in spinning tales through lyrics and visual storytelling makes “Courtesy Inn” a must-see.

To sum up, SULE’s “Courtesy Inn” is more than a music video. It’s a compelling story in the heart of hip-hop culture, and Written On Wides Corner is the perfect stage for this tale. For those into deep lyrics, energetic beats, and captivating visuals, SULE hits the mark. This release shows he’s a standout in the genre, and his project is a gem for hip-hop lovers everywhere.

Shantel May Releases New Single “Love It Here” Lola Brooke

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In the evolving landscape of R&B, few names sparkle with as much promise as Toronto’s own Shantel May. With her latest offering, “Love It Here,” featuring the dynamic New York rapper Lola Brooke, May not only cements her place in the hearts of her growing fanbase but also announces her grand entrance into the US music scene. This track, which marks May’s debut with MNRK Music Group, is produced by the talented duo SK & K Major, and it stands as a shimmering testament to the singer’s vocal range and storytelling prowess.

“Love It Here” is an intoxicating mix that perfectly captures the essence of modern R&B while still nodding to its rich history. The collaboration with Lola Brooke adds an edgy, lyrical dimension to the track, creating a perfect balance between May’s sultry vocals and Brooke’s razor-sharp verses. Together, they explore themes of love, self-assurance, and the complexities of relationships, all wrapped up in a production that’s both polished and deeply emotive.

Shantel May’s voice, rich and intoxicating, intertwines beautifully with the track’s smooth beats, illustrating her ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. The chemistry between May and Brooke is palpable, offering a glimpse into the potential of future collaborations that could further uplift both of their careers. “Love It Here” is not just a song; it’s an experience, a declaration of independence, and a love letter to the vibrancy of feeling confident and unapologetic in one’s own skin.

Behind the scenes, the skilled hands of producers SK & K Major have sculpted a soundscape that’s both innovative and respectful of the genre’s roots, proving that “Love It Here” is not just a standout track but a harbinger of the future of R&B. Shantel May, with her unique blend of confidence, vulnerability, and artistry, is certainly a name to watch. As she steps into the limelight of the US music scene, “Love It Here” serves as a powerful introduction to an artist poised for greatness and a reminder of the universal language of music—a language where Shantel May is undoubtedly fluent.

Spice 1 Drops “Gangsta Shhh” Featuring Snoop Dog, Rick Ross & Q Bosilini

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Spice 1, the venerable titan of West Coast rap, is at it again, solidifying his legacy with the much-anticipated announcement of his sequel album, Platinum O.G.2, slated for release on May 3, 2024. This project is not merely a follow-up album but a monumental collaboration featuring a constellation of hip-hop’s elite, including Snoop Dogg, Rick Ross, Conway The Machine, and many more, casting a wide net over the genre’s landscape. The lead single, “Gangsta Shhh,” sees Spice 1 joining forces for the first time with Snoop Dogg alongside Rick Ross and Q Bosilini, setting the stage for an album that promises to blend gritty narratives with velvet-smooth flows.

What sets Spice 1 apart in the saturated realm of hip-hop is not just his undeniable skills on the mic or his deep-seated history within the genre, but his ability to tell the raw, unvarnished tales of street life, etching him into the halls of hip-hop royalty. With Platinum O.G.2, Spice 1 isn’t merely releasing another album; he’s weaving together stories that pulsate with the lifeblood of the streets, underscored by masterful production from N.O. Joe and Ryan Elder. Elder’s dedication to preserving and elevating Spice 1’s legacy is palpable, promising a sequel that not only rivals its predecessor but surpasses it, ensuring Platinum O.G.2 isn’t viewed as a mere continuation but as a stellar evolution of Spice 1’s storied career. With the album already available for pre-order, fans await what is poised to be an epochal moment in hip-hop, ready to be inked into the annals of the genre’s history.

Rap Dads Episode 8: Kid Capri talks Daddy Daughter Duty

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In a world where hip-hop often focuses on struggle, resilience, and triumph, “The Rap Dads Show” hosted by Esteban Serrano gives a unique look at the family side of influential figures. An episode with DJ Kid Capri sheds light on fatherhood insights rarely seen.

Girl Dad Insights: Kid Capri discusses his role as a father to daughters, stressing setting a positive example and guidance. His views on father-daughter relationships in the music industry provide a heartfelt look at values passed down through generations.

Real Parenting: Capri’s parenting style values honesty and realness, crucial in life’s complexities. He also emphasizes discernment as key for personal and professional challenges.

Nuanced Nepotism: Kid Capri’s support for his daughter’s music path shows acknowledgment of talent over mere family connection. It’s a refreshing take on industry nepotism.

“The Rap Dads Show” delves into fatherhood and hip-hop, offering a deeper view of artists. This episode with DJ Kid Capri reveals the complexity behind public personas. For those into rap, music, and family narratives, “The Rap Dads Show” provides engaging content beyond traditional hip-hop discussions.

Two Decades of Juvenile’s 400 Degreez with Exclusive Digital Deluxe Release

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It’s a throwback celebration for all hip-hop aficionados! The iconic and genre-defining multiplatinum rapper Juvenile announces a special treat with the digital deluxe release of his monumental album, “400 Degreez,” presented by UMe.

This isn’t just any release; we’re talking about a groundbreaking record that has stamped its beats in the annals of rap history. The 4x Platinum RIAA-certified “400 Degreez” will now include the unforgettable hits like “Ha” and “Back That Azz Up,” plus we’re getting bonus tracks that you haven’t heard before — “Party” and “We Be Blowing Money,” pumping fresh blood into our playlist.

Mark your calendars for March 29th for this deluxe digital drop! And the celebration doesn’t stop there. Come April 26th, grab the chance to own a part of music history with the reissue of “400 Degreez” on a collector’s 2LP color vinyl.

Blast “400 Degreez” and be engulfed by the same fervor that it sparked back on November 3, 1998. This album not only became Juvenile’s best-seller but also clinched the title of “the best-selling album in Cash Money Records history,” rocketing to 4x-platinum status.

Rekindling that excitement, Juvenile left fans electrified last year with a sensational performance on NPR’s “Tiny Desk” Concerts – one that went down as among their most viewed. The stage was owned by New Orleans legends, including Mannie Fresh, Jon Batiste, and Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews, bringing the heat and soul of The Big Easy live.

Ready for a nostalgia trip with a modern twist? Keep an eye out for a thrilling new music video for the album title track “400 Degreez” that’s about to hit the scene!

In the meantime, relive that landmark “Tiny Desk” Concert [(right here)](http://linktoconcert.npr.org). This is a must have collectors item.

400 DEGREEZ TRACKLISTS

DIGITAL DELUXE 

  1. Intro
  2. Ha
  3. Gone Ride With Me
  4. Flossin’ Season
  5. Ghetto Children
  6. Follow Me Now
  7. Cash Money Concert
  8. Welcome 2 Tha Nolia
  9. U.P.T.
  10. Run For It
  11. Ha – Remix Version (Hot Boys)
  12. Rich Niggaz
  13. Back That Azz Up
  14. Off Top
  15. After Cash Money Concert
  16. 400 Degreez
  17. Juvenile On Fire
  18. Ha – Remix Version (Jay-Z)
  19. Party
  20. We Be Blowing Money

2LP COLOR VINYL

Side A

1. Intro

2. Ha 

3. Gone Ride With Me

4. Flossin’ Season

Side B

1. Ghetto Children

2. Follow Me Now

3. Cash Money Concert

4. Welcome 2 Tha Nolia

5. U.P.T.

Side C

1. Run For It

2. Ha – Remix Version (Hot Boys)

3. Rich Niggaz

4. Back That Azz Up

Side D

1. Off Top

2. After Cash Money Concert

3. 400 Degreez

4. Juvenile On Fire

5. Ha – Remix Version (Jay-Z)