In anticipation of her debut album ‘To Enjoy Is The Only Thing,’ Australia-native Maple Glider turns pain into beauty with her latest single ‘Swimming.’
Detailing the events leading up to the end of a romantic relationship, ‘Swimming’ provides a feeling of reflection and intimacy.
In the process of making the record, Maple detailed navigating between mixed emotions of joy and sadness. It ultimately brought her to a place of acceptance that establishes the genuine nature within the music.
Amidst the collective unrest of the pandemic, Maple took the time to reconnect with herself and her surroundings.
The result would only bring her closer to her passion as a musician along with a heightened sense of self.
“I personally had a lot of time to be still and reflect. I’ve also come out of it pretty much working on music full time… I think like everyone, there have been really low points, and times where I’ve felt so uninspired. I appreciate that I was given the time to be able to sit and work through those feelings, and I think that definitely shows up in my songwriting.”
Maple Glider
Visual inspiration in Maple Glider’s work
The accompaniment of the vintage aesthetic of the music video contributes to the vibe of the record in a seamless fashion.
Every video was shot one-on-one with her roommate Bridgette, and Maple thus described the experience as being very personal. Besides the comforting feeling that the Super 8mm camera creates, working with her friend made the process truly special.
“We both love the feeling of film, the warmth and richness, the anticipation you have when you send it off to the lab and patiently wait for the result. To be honest, it wouldn’t matter so much what camera she had, I just really enjoy the experience of making things with friends, and making things with Brid is really special.”
Maple Glider
To Enjoy is the Only Thing
In regards to the music, Maple can grab inspiration from all aspects of life. Stumbling upon a piece of Graffiti art that reads “To Enjoy is the Only Thing BTCH$,” Maple spun its superficiality.
Considering the heavy subject matter throughout the entirety of her debut, the title represents the brighter side of life.
Working towards the release, Maple describes her debut album as a moment that she has waited a long time for.
“When I was recording with Tom (Iansek) I found myself in this moment where finally I was recording my debut album, something I had been working towards for close to a decade. I feel like I’m attached to music… I kind of felt like I found somewhere I loved, to fit. It was really nice.”
Maple Glider
Look out for Maple Glider’s debut project “To Enjoy Is The Only Thing” releasing June 25.
If you aren’t familiar with the work that Baton Rouge/Atlanta-based producer & engineer Mannie íl is doing within hip-hop, you might not be as musically tapped in as you thought.
Working with the likes of highly revered artists like Kevin Gates, Young Dolph, Key Glock, and also executive producing YBN Nahmir’s latest album Visionland, Mannie’s portfolio is in a substantial place.
My conversation with Mannie revealed that regardless of the current success gained through his craft, it was not earned overnight.
Growing up in Baton Rouge, LA, Mannie was exposed to music early on as a musician in the church.
This would lead to his first spark of inspiration, witnessing a local Gospel group in his community go platinum. Furthermore, recording music with his cousins built Mannie’s comfortability with the studio at an early age.
Mannie took off running with this inspiration to sharpen his craft and then never looked back. At 14 years of age, the burning passion that Mannie had for music led him to an opportunity of a lifetime, recording and also producing for Kevin Gates.
While many people would have grown complacent from such an experience early in their career, Mannie stayed true to his grind.
Mannie íl adapting to an odd year
With the current interpersonal restrictions that the pandemic has prompted, Mannie expressed how this has benefitted his working habits.
The newfound intimacy of modern-day studio sessions has prompted stronger connections for Mannie. He thus has credited the quality of his work to the personal settings of studio sessions which brought him closer to artists.
“Surprisingly the pandemic has been amazing for me because it made sessions intimate. A lot of (YBN) Nahmir’s album was recorded at his house in LA… As a result, I’ve gotten to work with a lot of dope artists in settings that enhanced the quality of our sessions.”
Mannie íl
Mannie further explained how these intimate work settings put him in the same rooms as rap’s most talented musicians from Young Thug and Future to Metro Boomin.
Eliminating the clutter, Mannie’s creative and ambitious mindset raised to a higher frequency…
The Atlanta producer is expanding his talents
The process of producing YBN Nahmir’s debut album Visionland reminded Mannie of his resilience as a producer and musician overall. With multiple joint projects planned in the near future, Mannie believes executive production will be a common aspect of his musicality.
Wake Up
He recently worked closely with Key Glock & Young Dolph on their latest album Dum And Dummer 2.
Earning placements on three tracks (#9,18 & 19) on the joint project, the Atlanta producer’s hard-hitting production seamlessly complimented the Memphis MC’s.
Considering Young Dolph’s Recent announcement of retirement from Rap, Mannie has cemented himself in rap history. Gaining industry experience through the connections Mannie has made highlighted his love for the creativity that comes with making music.
Remaining creative with the craft
Expounding on his prior involvement in handling the business aspect of music, Mannie felt a stronger appreciation for his craft.
“I had to take a step back from the business side of the industry and remain creative… Now I’ve put together a team where I don’t even need to talk about the business anymore… I caught myself early in this journey all about the business with myself and it was affecting my creativity and my beats. It brought back the genuine connection because I really care about the vision of artists that I work with.”
Distinguishing the business from the craft, Mannie has been able to manifest more meaningful relationships with artists.
It allows him to decipher those who truly care about the music and those looking for a financial come up. In light of the success Mannie mentioned the vitality of the mentorship he’s received.
Guided by super producers Dun Deal (onthetrack), Mixed By Tillie & Bandplay who have produced for superstars from the Migos to French Montana, Mannie was in good company.
Mannie has used this mentorship to foster the career of his artist Tajiah Gary whose hybrid sound of R&B and Hip-Hop is making noise in Atlanta.
Amidst an era where the representation of Black female musicians is as robust as it’s ever been, Detroit native Siena Liggins seeks to put her stamp on the movement. She is the rising artist of our time.
With the release of her single ‘Dirty Girl’ with Yung Baby Tate and recently ‘No Valet’, Liggins has created a unique lane for herself.
Dirty Girl Video
Unlike many rising artists, the diverse pop sound that she brings to the records provides a modern twist on the influences she grew up listening to.
In doing so, Liggins maintains her genre-bending artistry fostering a refreshing yet organic perspective on pop music.
In the visuals that accompany both singles, Siena displays her vibrant personality as a queer Black woman, which enhances the songs’ listening experience.
Having the chance to speak with Siena about her music and her experience as a rising artist thus far has shown me how intentional she is about her art.
No Valet
No Valet Video
In regards to the creation of ‘No Valet’, Siena Liggins harkens back to an inspirational stint of music listening pre-covid.
The rising artist details her inspiration from a spontaneous deep dive into Timbaland’s catalog with her producer Nidgel.
“We were both randomly on this ‘Cry Me a River’ Timbaland kick a week before… We were spazzing out over how in the pocket he was with the artists he worked with… Hopefully, when you hear the track you can see the influence”
The momentum gained from ‘No Valet’ would lead Siena to complete her upcoming album. Liggins brought up that her project would have a visual aspect to go along with the album.
Nostalgic inspiration
Reflecting back on her childhood watching BET’s 106 & Park, Liggins gained an immense reference catalog.
She further explains that the nostalgic TV classic played a large role in her influences for the videos. As a rising artist, she said, it’s important for her that her fans learn where she and her inspiration comes from.
Growing up Siena’s musical influences from her parents planted the seed of inspiration in her brain.
Naming artists like Brandy, Usher, Tupac, and more, Liggins’ influences are diverse.
As Siena Liggins gained experience within the music industry, she spoke about how her perspective on music changed.
A change of perspective from a rising artist
Considering the millions of music listeners in America alone, Liggins is committed herself making music she is proud of.
While musical awards such as The Grammys are important to her, she prioritizes the quality of her music.
“I think that when you don’t have the inside scoop on the industry a lot of things seem to appear as crafted out as they are marketed… When I started out the Grammys seemed like the utmost accolade you could get and I was shooting for that… I desired this idea of what I could be at my greatest but I didn’t realize how important it is for me to recognize myself as the greatest.”
Siena Liggins
As the rising artist prepares for the release of her album, ‘No Valet’ is an exciting sample for what is yet to come.
Aside from the music, Siena will be a light in the music industry as her career continues to ascend.
Be sure to check out her latest single and look out for her upcoming album set to release in April.
Amidst the modern-day renaissance leading creatives to realize the power of ownership over their work through cultivating their own brand, New York City-bred artist T$unami811 and his record label ‘Bad Genes’ seeks to contribute towards the cause in a unique fashion.
T$unami looks to take advantage of his momentum in 2021 following his Foreword EP, “Gokunami: Power Up,” and single “Bittersweet Harmony” released last year.
My conversation with the NYC artist about his label’s newest project revealed the pure intentions that he puts toward his music and collective…
T$unami811
Influenced by the blues, jazz, and gospel he grew up on, T$unami developed an eclectic music taste at an early age.
Eventually adding hip hop legends like Kanye West and 50 Cent to his palette, music from his upbringing set the foundation.
The soulful nature of T$unami’s music taste also evoked a profound cognizance regarding the energy he puts into his music…
“Through many different experiences, I realized that I needed to treat myself with love not only for myself but for listeners who hear my music… In the last project (Bittersweet Harmony) I wanted to show that side of me through my story.”
Despite an erratic 2020, the NYC artist credits his effectiveness to prioritizing his time to reflect and sharpen his craft.
T$unami explained his drive to max out his potential, still referring to complacency as the biggest roadblock people are faced with.
“One of the worst things we do as artists and human beings overall is to box ourselves in, we love to give ourselves titles and that’s cool but what else… Our minds have the capacity to achieve so much but we limit ourselves because of what society has in mind for us.”
T$unami811
Allowing his talent and imagination to guide the way, ‘Gokunami’ and ‘Bittersweet Harmony’ also proved to be his best projects yet.
With tracks like ‘Stairway to Hell,’ ‘Fantasy,’ ‘Later 2020,’ ‘GIFT/CURSE,’ and ‘BUILDING WITH BOB,’ T$unami811 displays his artistic versatility.
It’s necessary to mention that the Lower East Side native produced all of these tracks. Both projects also show that T$unami is an artist whose music reflects his feelings rather than what’s trending.
Bad Genes
The NYC artist focused his energy towards expanding his collective and record label ‘Bad Genes.’
T$unami went in-depth about the collective’s inspiration, stemming from people’s potential to cultivate the lives they want to create.
“The idea behind it is good kids, bad genes… Your life is what you make it to be. And music is one of the purest forms of manifestation. So you can create what you want in your life just by saying it and ultimately doing it.”
One NYC music collective is able to encapsulate what many young creatives are feeling right now: Acknowledging the difficulties of a tumultuous year, while still being optimistic about the state of creatives right now.
I had the opportunity to interview both artists on their musical processes, as well as provide a helping hand by photographing the cover art for the single.
In doing so, I got an in-depth look at the care that NYC artists Lincoln and MJangles have regarding their music collective, the music specifically, and who they work with.
In light of the eventful year that 2020 was, Lincoln and MJangles used this as a time of reflection regarding the situation in the U.S. for BIPOC.
At their inspirational peak, MJangles made the trip from Harvard University to Lincoln’s residence in Harlem, NY to work on the single.
Lincoln and MJangles wanted to make a song that represented the tumultuous times in a manner that was prideful rather than taking the popular perspective of pessimism in relation to the year.
“We had a song that made us feel a common thread of empowerment and excitement so we didn’t want to take away from the joy that the beat carried… Rather than writing a song about being upset with the nation we were trying to reclaim our pride about being in the nation.”
Lincoln Hart
With ‘Nation’ entirely produced by the artists, the two provided a sound that encapsulates their diverse musical pallet with its classical chords and jazz samples mixed with modern hip hop drums.
Together the production conveyed an upbeat feeling that matched their lyrical content fostering the anthemic nature to the song.
“When it came time to write the song last summer at the height of the protests related to George Floyd, we felt like it was time to write it… I think we struck the right balance between art and politics.”
MJangles
In its entirety, the song upholds the brand of musical content that Lincoln, MJangles, and Tobias Defoe have consistently released over the years.
MJangles and Lincoln are a perfect pairing with a unique sound
With their collective EP ‘Harlem Nights’ which released last year along with Tobias Defoe’s single Road Trip featuring MJangles, Maybe There’s Life is seemingly allergic to making the same song twice.
When it comes to the inspiration behind the multifaceted sound, Lincoln attributes it to MTL’s love for music and the desire to innovate in a way that has yet to be done.
“So much of how we think about our craft is all the music that came before us which has impacted our lives in such a profound way… We try to tap into what we find are the greatest elements of all different kinds of music and create something new for the modern context.”
While uniformity is a trend, it is one MTL refuses to follow. MJangles and Lincoln uphold their habit of collaboration in relation to the cover art as well as the promo.
In preparation for the release of Nation, MJangles and Lincoln reached out to me to shoot the cover art for their single.
The exchange of ideas and perspectives regarding the photoshoot also highlighted the importance of collaboration within your network, and the finished product speaks for itself.
“As a musician, I feel like you have a better appreciation for other forms of art than anyone who isn’t an artist even if it’s not your own medium.”
MJangles
Maybe There’s Life NYC music collective
With the pending release of their performance video for ‘Nation,’ as well as solo projects from all three members of Maybe There’s Life, MJangles and Lincoln have set the tone for the quality of music that will be coming from the NYC music collective this year.
Be sure to continue streaming ‘Nation’ which is now available on all streaming platforms and be on the lookout for what’s to come from MJangles and Lincoln.
Big city photographers have something new and beautiful to capture every day. It is becoming ever clearer that NYC photographers and others from big cities like LA have a price that is steadily on the rise.
Even during the pandemic, urban photographers have had the opportunity to step outside and at a moment’s notice, capture anything.
The diversity in photographer content from music, sports, and everyday lifestyle has fostered refreshing energy in the space.
Among many things, the eventful (borderline cinematic) year that was 2020, has shown the power and importance of photographers who make the effort to immortalize the stories of our culture through pictures.
Why do big city photographers of color deserve fair prices?
Whether in LA, NYC, or another big city, photographers have found ways to exceed the expectations, making some of the best work in their respective catalogs.
NYC photographers and others from big cities have a price that is going up. Collectively, the photographer community has set a strong tone for the decade.
As the times continue to change one can assume that the quality of photography will only adapt and improve. In light of the great work being produced, here are 10 big city photographers with a promising 2021 to look out for…
Brandon Hicks (LA Photographer)
LA-based photographer Brandon Hicks had a captivating 2020. Capturing photos of his subjects in their intimate states of being, Hicks’ photos truly highlight the diverse essence of human beauty.
From his inspired work with the New Yorker to the cover art for Ciara’s single Rooted, LA photographer Brandon Hicks has set himself apart.
(Cred: @brandonhicks)
The LA photographer’s pictures are nothing short of brilliant, with vibrant colors often balancing the complex emotions of the police whose portrait is taken.
(Cred: @brandonhicks)
Kanya Iwana (Bi-Coastal Photographer)
Kanya Iwana has truly shined through 2020. She filmed and produced the video ‘Let It Go’ for Erick Arc Elliot of the Flatbush Zombies.
Iwana’s creativity as a big city photographer has been prevalent in a variety of ways.
Maat aka Young Eggz (NYC Photographer)
@youngeggz, as they go by on Instagram, had a strong showing of consistency throughout 2020.
Displaying a mixture of content from their friends to artists like Lil Tecca, Kaytranada, G Herbo, and Lucki to name a few, the big city film photographer clearly shoots what they are passionate about, hence the diverse catalog.
(Cred: @youngeggz)
(Cred: @youngeggz)
Maya Iman (Chicago Photographer)
Maya Iman describes her work as an “intimate view of her community and a means to unlock the general essence of humanity.
And undisputedly, Maya Iman’s work does just that.
Capturing intimate photos of her subjects, Iman’s big city photography brings out the best in them as they are displayed in a powerful fashion.
(Cred: @mayaiman)
Iman has taken pictures for New Yorker Magazine and has worked with companies such as Nike, Twitter, AT&T. Look out for the bright artist in 2021.
(Cred: @mayaiman)
Pierre aka Visuals by Pierre (NYC Photographer)
Documenting the events of his life in New York City, Pierre’s work truly encapsulates the very things that make NYC special…
This NYC photographer’s price is going up. Pierre’s work is certainly unconventional, and we appreciate his unique takes documenting the life he lives.
(Cred: @visualsbypierre)
Jon Lopez (NYC Photographer)
Looking at Jon Lopez’s photos from past Nike EYBL tournaments, there are countless photos of NBA stars who are positioning themselves to be the next superstars of the league. Lopez captured Trae Young, De’Aaron Fox, and Ben Simmons, to name a few.
2015 JBC. LUCKY STRIKE BOWLING.
Lopez’s love for Basketball and Photography is apparent which has resulted in his inspiring catalog.
Jeremy Neal (NYC Photographer)
The film photographer has gotten off to a blazing start this year with photos of A$AP mob members such as A$AP Rocky, YG Addie, A$AP Nast, and more.
(Cred: @jare.rah.mee)
Neal is also only 19, so look for the talented urban photographer to make even bigger strides in 2021.
Adeline Lulo (NYC Photographer)
Inspired by her Dominican roots, Adeline Lulo’s work highlights images of unity and beauty within the Bronx. The NYC photographer’s price is steadily rising with the poignant pictures she is able to paint.
Capturing the essence of New York’s prominent hip hop scene is what Apex Visions does. And looking deeply at the NYC photographer, perhaps better than anyone.
NYC photographers like Apex have a price that is going up. Especially while many of us are stuck inside, powerful images will never be obsolete.
(Cred: @apex.visions)
Apex has captured artists like Rowdy Rebel, King Combs, Jay Critch, and the late great legend Pop Smoke. Apex Visions is among the best in the city as a big city photographer. And make no doubt about it: their price is going up.
Badmon, the proclaimed “product of NY” was consistently applying pressure throughout 2020. The NYC photographer did not let the odd year affect his progress, something we can all aspire to.
(Cred: @badmon._)
With candid photos of rap stars like Fivio Foreign, Lil Tjay, Young MA, and the late King Von, Badmon showed out as a big city photographer.
And plans to go even harder in 2021.
(Cred: @badmon._)
Big city photographers’ prices are going up
While there are new photographers that emerge with unique work every year, the big city photographers listed above have proven themselves on countless occasions.
With 2021 in full bloom, we look forward to seeing what LA, NYC, and other big city photographers have in store. NYC photographers have a price that may exceed others. LA photographers may have the same.
But one thing remains clear above all else: these big city photographers’ prices are going up.
When it comes to iconic moments rapper Lil Wayne has many and the photos to prove it…
For Lil Wayne, 2020 was a year that landed him in more media headlines than he may have intended.
From his record-breaking mixtape No Ceilings 3 and his political interests to new gun charges and possible prison time, the legendary rapper has had a memorable year.
Lil Wayne was federally convicted on possession of drugs and a firearm while flying from Los Angeles to Miami in December of 2019.
On December 11, 2020, Weezy pleaded guilty to the possession of the firearm where his trial was projected to take place in early January of the new year.
Given the fact that the rap legend has pled guilty to the charges as a convicted felon, the offense has the potential to land Lil Wayne in prison anywhere from 10-15 years in prison.
With thoughts and prayers that Lil Wayne will be able to beat this case and continue exercising his passion as one of the greatest rappers ever, it is important to acknowledge the iconic moments that he created throughout 2020 and before.
With the latest information being that Lil Wayne could face 10 to 15 years in prison for drugs and a firearm charge, we decided to review 13 iconic moments of the rap GOAT, to honor him before what could be a devastating curtain call on his time in the spotlight.
1. We’ve been here before
Lil Wayne photographed by Carlo Allegri after leaving a court hearing in a firearms possession case in Manhattan, NY – February 09, 2010
In 2009, rapper Lil Wayne pleaded guilty to a felony charge of attempted gun possession. He was sentenced to one year behind bars. According to CNN, Tuneci was arrested in New York City in 2007 after police found a .40-caliber pistol on his tour bus.
After serving 8 months of his sentence, Lil Wayne was released early for good behavior.
In a statement to the New York Times, Lil Wayne’s defense attorney argued the law barring convicted felons from ever owning a gun again may not be constitutional:
Carter is charged with possessing a gold-plated handgun in his luggage on a private plane. There is no allegation that he ever fired it, brandished it, used it, or threatened to use it. There is no allegation that he is a dangerous person. The charge is that because he was convicted of a felony in the past, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm.
Although the Supreme Court has not yet decided the constitutional question, Justice Amy Coney Barrett recently wrote an appellate dissenting opinion in which she stated that ‘Absent evidence that he either belongs to a dangerous category or bears individual markers of risk, permanently disqualifying [a felon] from possessing a gun violates the Second Amendment.
2. The photo of GOATS Lil Wayne and Kobe Bryant
The 2020 BET awards, which took place in June, was an important moment for not only Lil Wayne but for Black culture in light of Weezy’s highly spirited tribute performance for the late great NBA legend Kobe Bryant.
Weezy performed an updated version of his classic song ‘Kobe Bryant’ that he released after the LA Lakers victory over the Orlando Magic in 2009.
BET Awards 2020
Considering the fact that the song was a loose single that had not been featured on any Lil Wayne projects initially, the inspired performance showed his respect and gratitude for Kobe.
Photo by Kenneth Cappello via
Furthermore, the two have expressed their respect for one another on many occasions for the similarities they have regarding each other’s work ethic and desire for the mastery of their respective crafts.
This Lil Wayne photo with the late great Kobe Bryant shows game recognizes game.
3. Lil Wayne and Birdman photographed at Lil Wayne’s Funeral listening party
MIAMI, FLORIDA – FEBRUARY 01: Birdman and Lil Waune attend Lil Wayne’s “Funeral” album release party on February 01, 2020 in Miami, Florida (Photo by Gerardo Mora/Getty Images for Young Money/Republic Records)
By the end of summer 20’, Lil Wayne took a trip back into his vault of classic albums and mixtapes to re-release No Ceilings. It is perhaps one of his most iconic mixtapes to date making it available on all streaming platforms.
But it also makes us think about Lil Wayne’s career through the years, from starting with Hot Boys, to signing with Cash Money Records, and all of his agreements and disagreements with Birdman over the years.
This Lil Wayne photo was taken in 2020, during a less contentious time in the relationship of these two rap moguls. And it serves as a staunch reminder of the prowess of the two of them as a pair.
4. His run with the Hot Boys
Juvenile & Lil Wayne photographed by Erin Patrice O’Brien during a portrait session – 2000
Let’s throw it back real quick. This photo of Lil Wayne and Hot Boys OG, Juvenile, reminds us of the humble beginnings of Lil Tunechi.
He looks young and naive to the undercurrents of the rap world. Before he could fly, Wayne had to run with this group.
And run they did. Running so fast it helped propel Wayne to the heights he now achieved.
5. Mama Wayne knows best
Lil Wayne & his mother photographed by Sarah A. Friedman during a portrait session for Blaze Magazine – February 2000
There are countless bars where Lil Wayne thanks his mama. This photo of the great rapper and his mother reminds of why he’s dedicated so many songs to her.
“It’s just me and my Momma how it’s supposed to be/And I make sure she paid like she wrote for me…”
(Left to Right) Lil Wayne, Nicki Minaj, and Drake at the BBMAS 2017. Photo by Kevin Mazur via Getty Images.
Ah, everyone’s favorite love triangle.
Drake, Nicki, and Lil Wayne have given us some inspired music over the years. And this photo is a reminder of the star power this trio presents.
Young Money, from when many of us remember them all cooking it up in the studio together. Though they may have grown apart, this photo will live on as iconic forever.
6. “We Are the World” recording sessions
Lil Wayne performs at the “We Are The World 25 Years for Haiti” recording session held at Jim Henson Studios on February 1, 2010 in Hollywood, California. Photo by Kevin Mazur via WireImage.
Lionel Richie, Wyclef Jean, and Lil Wayne stand here in this iconic image during recording sessions for “We Are the World 25 for Haiti.”
Lionel Ritchie, of course the songwriter for the original 1985 hit “We Are the World” is an icon himself. Wyclef Jean’s Haitian ties are well-founded. And Lil Tunechi’s recording acumen solidifies this photo as evergreen and iconic.
7. A reminder of Wayne keeps it Bape’d up
@liltunechi
Let’s not forget who the king of this drip sh** is. Here, Wayne models the Bape x Ugg collab.
Everything Bape. Lil Wayne also stands as the GOAT in these throwback jawns of him in the og Bape.
Lil Wayne photographed by Lester Cohen at the 2005 BET Awards in Hollywood, CA – June 28, 2005
Lil Wayne, no matter what one thinks about him or his music, has swag in abundance.
They don’t look the slightest bit sober, nor in Wayne’s case, like they give af about that. Rap and culture legends.
This photo is iconic because of the duo’s relationship and how authentically it captures Wayne in his natural habitat.
9. Lil Wayne and Blink-182 collab
(Courtesy of Randall Slavin)
Blink-182 and Lil Wayne’s collab-tour should stand as a model for any group looking to collab with another.
Their sounds are starkly different, yet they were able to collaborate on an entire tour. And while they may have had their problems along the way, this image sticks in your head the moment you see it.
10. He was a skater boy…
LAS VEGAS, NV – AUGUST 20: Lil Wayne performs at the 1 OAK Nightclub at The Mirage Hotel & Casino on August 20, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Bryan Steffy/WireImage)
An acronym for “The Reason U Kill For IT,“ TRUKFIT hit the mainstream in 2012. At first it was little weird to see a rapper other than Lupe fiasco step into the skateboarding space, but now it’s just a part of the culture.
Lil Wayne even pulled up to his deposition rocking his the brand. Talk about LEGENDARY.
Now one of the most recognizable skate boarding brands out there, TRUKFIT is definitely one thing to remember about the icon.
11. I can’t feel my face…
Lil Wayne and Juelz Santana circa unknown
The I Can’t Feel My Face era was a good one. An unmatched duo, Juelz Santana and Lil Wayne changed the course of hip hop with this legendary mixtape.
It’d be really nice to get a part two. But we know how that goes…
12. Good ‘ol Uncle Snoop
Snoop Dogg & Lil Wayne photographed by Kevin Mazur while attending the Direct TV 7th Annual Beach Bowl in New Orleans, Louisiana – February 02, 2013
Homies, rivals, family are all words that identify these two. Snoop has always had a high respect for the New Orleans rapper. In June, Snoop actually pressed Wayne about going on a VERZUZ battle.
“That Verzuz battle, when they gon’ get you in there?” asked Snoop. “You the young GOAT! You birthed the second generation of rappers. Dem is yo babies out there. You deserve to be in the race.”
“If they start me, they ain’t gon’ stop me,” Weezy replied. “They gon’ have to ring the bell, ‘Tune stop!’ I can’t stop.”
Snoop even compared Tunechi’s rap career to the basketball career of the late Kobe Bryant. “Kobe played half his life in basketball,” he told Wayne.
“Half your life has been in rapping. I just wanna see you in there because I love what you do and I know what you bring to the table. You the young GOAT, you understand me? A lot of people say that they GOATs, but they not GOATs.”
Hopefully, this is still something we’ll see before Lil Wayne goes to his prison sentence hearing.
13. Where it all began
Lil Wayne photographed by Marcus Hänschen during a portrait session for Murder Dog Magazine at age 15 in Hollywood, CA – 1997
At this point in his career, it is clear that Lil Wayne is at the point in his career where he is releasing bodies of work with the sole purpose of fulfilling his love for rapping.
Regardless of how one feels about the Young Money CEO, there is no denying the fact that Lil Wayne is one of the most talented and enigmatic artists to ever grace a microphone in music.
Looking at the severity of Lil Wayne’s gun possession case and possible jail time there is a great deal of uncertainty regarding the future release of music and most importantly his freedom.
How do you think 2020 contributed to Lil Wayne’s rap career? Where do you think he will land in the GOAT conversation when it’s all said and done?
One of the more unique trends circulating in the music industry today is the emergence of hip hop holiday music. Specifically hip hop and R&B artists, but musical talents in general, are recognizing the lucrative opportunities the holiday season presents.
Holiday music is not a new occurrence in hip hop. On the contrary, legendary artists like Run DMC, Snoop Dogg and Death Row Records have all had successful efforts before.
Despite this fact, it seems like the pandemic’s ability to keep us indoors has sparked the inspiration for a resurgence.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVkg5FM59NA
Santa Claus Goes Straight To The Ghetto
Hip hop holiday music in 2020
Chance The Rapper and Jeremih’s Christmas album Merry Christmas Lil Mama dropped earlier this year. Although it came out on Soundcloud in 2017, the artists have officially made the project available on the other streaming platforms.
Although the album is essentially the same project as the original with the exception of a few songs, it could be that the artists plan to carry out the project in the future.
Are U Live
LVRN has banked a lot on its talent in holiday rap music
LVRN (Love Renaissance) collectively dropped a nine-track project of Christmas music.
With songs featuring 6lack, Summer Walker, Shelley fka D.R.A.M, Westside Boogie, and Eli Darby, the album has an array of different sounds that differ from the traditional Christmas album.
Maintaining themes of classics like Feliz Navidad, Santa Baby, and This Christmas, LVRN’s renditions of the holiday classics produced a unique take on music that has been sung for decades.
Santa Baby
Considering the diversely talented roster on LVRN, this project thus opened a window for the label to contribute to a positive musical tradition.
Pornhub joins the hip hop holiday music trend
Following Valentine’s day xxx album, Pornhub has chosen Christmas as its next hip hop holiday album release. The star-studded tracklist features artists like A$AP Ferg, Rubi Rose, Sukihana, and Mila J shows that Pornhub has a presence in music.
The platform has a long-winded history working with the range of artists. From Kanye West and Wacka Flocka to Blac Chyna and Asian Doll, Pornhub will continue to release compilation projects.
Playboi Carti to drop Whole Lotta Red on Christmas Day
As Carti Christmas approaches and we look to Whole Lotta Red to close out 2020, how has other holiday hip hop music kept us inspired?
Christmas rap songs and other holiday music will help us push into 2021
While the release of Christmas albums and music may not be the most anticipated bodies of work during the year, it is a unique way for artists to make light-hearted music with the intentions of happiness behind it.
These hip hop holiday projects have therefore been a good way for artists to express their personalities over classic songs that have been done for years.
As new artists continue to push the boundaries in music, the tradition should make for new classics soon.
What do you think of the hip hop holiday music albums or Christmas rap songs that have been released this year? Do you think this decade will bring new holiday classics?
In the complicated yet beautiful life of the creative, the concept of artists creative ownership is perhaps the most crucial.
With this conversation being particularly prevalent in the world of music, it is clear that a new awakening is taking place amongst artists. A plan for maintaining musical ownership rights is paramount for upcoming stars.
From Kanye West expressing his desire to break hip hop artists free of record label bondage, through multiple streams of consciousness on Twitter. To NBA Youngboy seeking to buy back his masters from his label, artists are understanding the worth in their creativity.
Artists’ creative ownership in the age of quarantine
If there is one thing that quarantine has shown us about the music industry in regards to the consumer, it is the fact that talent will always attract engagement.
Despite the uncertainty in regards to releasing music going into quarantine, music sales seemingly remain unaffected. This is one of the many aspects that highlight how the musical artistry in 2020 is nothing less than a business.
As this fact becomes more of a realization, not only in hip hop, but within the entire music industry, the perception behind the idea of the independent artist will change.
The question remains: what will the music industry look like as more artists seek the independent route as opposed to signing?
The idea of independence may seem daunting to some artists for its initial lack of stability. But many OGs within the rap game such as Swizz Beats, Kanye West, Jay-Z, Steve Stout, Future and many more have dropped gems for upcoming artists to take notice of.
Here are a few clips of Hip-Hop legends giving advice on the music industry and the importance of maintaining ownership over your work…
Future breaks down issues for artists and creative ownership
Future On The Music Industry
Future breaks down the nuances of the way record labels distribute wealth. He then speaks of the artists’ advance money and goes into detail about how this situation can lead artists on a path of financial instability.
With the assistance of record labels, music license companies, and management, artists are forced to distribute their money in many different directions. This thus leaves them with a fraction of the money they rightfully deserve. So much for an artists’ creative ownership.
OG business king Jay-Z gives advice
Jay-Z on Ownership
This clip of a young Jay-Z from the early 90s shows that he was built for creating an empire.
From the very beginning, Jay-Z understood the importance of having ownership over his work and the value that his words would have in the grand scheme of his career.
Furthermore, being one of the more commonly-sampled voices in hip hop has benefitted Jay-Z greatly as he receives the revenue for any and everything associated with his name. As a result, he stands as one of the most successful artists in music history.
When Nipsey talks, we listen
The Legend Nipsey Hussle
Known for his savviness regarding his music business, creative ownership was a concept that was not new to the late great Nipsey Hussle. Being an artist with musical ownership rights was essential to the OG.
Owning 100 percent of his masters and creativity was one of many inspiring aspects of Nipsey Hussle as an artist. His influence continues to permeate throughout hip hop being instrumental in furthering the conversation of creative ownership.
Kanye West speaks on the current state of the industry
In the current music climate, Kanye expressed how obsolete the industry has become over time.
An artist’s creative ownership has always been a complicated conversation. There is almost always a dependency on the record label. And that has gotten in the way of artists’ ability to reap the benefits of their work in its entirety.
Know your ownership rights
GIPHY
There is a constant expansion of accessibility to music. And thus, artists and their audiences continue to grow.
Creatives are gaining more liberty in controlling their modes of monetization.
Ultimately, as the internet continues to create new ways in which artists can utilize their art in a manner that benefits them entirely, an artists creative ownership become more of a common occurrence in the music industry.
What are your thoughts on creative ownership in 2020 and how it will evolve? How do you think the conversation of creative ownership has progressed? Do you think a music industry without major labels is possible?
It is no doubt that 2020 is a year that will be remembered for its erratic and emotional nature but the biggest takeaway might just be the hip-hop albums produced during the pandemic.
As many of these memories are rooted in negativity, one of the more positive aspects was the undeniable plethora of great music that was released this year.
With the occurrence of the pandemic locking the world indoors, questions were raised about how the production and distribution of music, especially hip-hop, would be affected.
Given the numerous factors in our current society that would be perceived hindrances towards creativity artists have risen to the occasion.
2020 has also been a representation of the bright new talent as artists like Liv.E, Kenny Mason, Giveon, and Abby Jasmine amongst many more who have emerged with substantial projects.
Collectively, this pandemic year has produced countless albums that have set the tone for hip-hop music to come for the rest of this decade. So what exactly has made hip-hop so strong in the midst of the extreme solitude at hand?
While the possibility stands that most of the hip-hop music released was made over a period of time that began before 2020, this year played a hand in its inspiration.
In light of 2020’s occurrences, this year has been a time of introspection for artists to reconnect with their music and ultimately their purpose.
Big Sean bodies hip-hop during the pandemic with his Detroit 2 album
Expressed in the highly coveted release of his album Detroit 2, Big Sean has expressed how his time away from music and quarantine has helped him reconnect with his spirit.
Feeling as though he was reaching a point of burnout by the constant urge to release music as a means to stay relevant rather than to progress artistically, Big Sean decided to step back and reflect.
In doing so, he returned this pandemic year to drop one of his most vulnerable and arguably best body of hip-hop music to date.
BTS of Detroit 2
Besides his prolific lyrical ability that has always been an integral piece to his music, it’s the apparent spiritual growth that is prevalent throughout the project that makes the album so special.
Trippie Redd keeps it Pegasus fly during the pandemic
Trippie Redd is another great example, with the recent release of his album Pegasus. Not only was this one of his most cohesive albums to date from a listener’s standpoint, but the concept within the album also highlights his maturity as an artist.
Highlighting the Pegasus as a symbolic guardian angel who accompanies him throughout the listening experience, Trippie’s effort to convey this message is exceptional with his implementation of Spooky Sounds EP.
Explaining in an interview with Zane Lowe that his album was a process that extended over a year, Pegasus serves as a testament to that.
Jhene Aiko keeps the vibes going
Three-years after her last album Trip, Jhene Aiko approached her latest album Chilombo with healing as her intention behind its creation. Released at the very beginning of the lockdown in early March, the album released right on time for those who were in need to heal.
Over the duration of her album Jhene studied the nuances of sound healing to implement sounds in her music that resonated with certain parts of the human body. The end goal was to evoke feelings of positivity through sound.
Jhene Aiko on Sound Healing (5:40)
Abby Jasmine dropped an album and used her hip-hop artistry to navigate negative vibes in the pandemic
Staten Island, NY native Abby Jasmine has used this time to eradicate negativity from her creative space as a way to create her best music yet. With the release of her deluxe album Who Cares?, Jasmine put her versatility on display with influences of Hip-Hop, Dance and R&B throughout.
In talking about what contributed to her creating a project that was true to the entirety of her sound. Understanding that music will always come accompanied by opinions of others, Abby Jasmine chose to do things her way.
In attending her press conference with °1824, Jasmine gave insight on the makings of her album. Having the opportunity to ask her about what she does to maintain her creativity in between the process of making her album.
Highlighting activities that stem outside of the music, Abby Jasmine attributes painting, gaming, cooking and being around friends in keeping her mentally balanced.
Music has been one of the most important aspects of this year for its healing properties during a time where mental, spiritual, and physical health was at an all time.
The wide range of great albums released across all genres released has shown the many ways in which hip-hop plays a vital role in our society today. Music is a part of our culture that has multi-faceted purposes for people whether that be entertainment or momentarily escape from our pandemic reality.
Considering the variety of talented artists that have released meaningful hip-hop albums with a substantial meaning behind it during the pandemic, music listeners around the world have are left with no other option but to be excited for what’s yet to come this year and beyond.
What are your thoughts on the music that has come out this year during the pandemic? What do you attribute to the high quality of music? How do you think this will transfer over into 2021?
