New music
In an electrifying debut on “The Afternoon Hustle with Amir Diamond,” Houston’s emerging rap duo, Irish Twins, delivered an unforgettable interview that captivated listeners and viewers alike. Hosted by The Vibe, this exclusive session marked the first-ever on-air appearance for Pinky Menique (@meniquedadon) and Big Dawgg Tee (@dancequeentee), collectively known as Official Irish Twins. The sisters, whose bond is forged by being born just 11 months apart, shared their inspiring journey into the music industry. Sitting down with Amir Diamond ahead of their anticipated Spring Fest 2024 performance, Pinky and Tee radiated infectious energy and camaraderie, effortlessly finishing each other’s sentences and sharing identical reactions throughout the interview. Reflecting on their genesis as a rap duo, Irish Twins emphasized the importance of their unique sibling connection, drawing strength and creativity from their Irish Twin dynamic. Their upbeat presence in the studio resonated with listeners, as they imparted words of encouragement and wisdom, urging everyone to pursue their dreams with passion and determination. “Just Do It,” said Pinky, echoing their mantra of seizing opportunities without hesitation. Tee added, “It’s never too late to go after what you want…no regrets” Their optimism and resilience shone through as they shared insights into their musical journey that started less than a year ago. Their debut single, “Go Crazy,” dropped last week, on Juneteenth after much buzz and anticipation from their budding fan base. The Vibe is committed to uplifting and celebrating Houston’s culture, so highlighting the Irish Twins’ and their promising potential fell perfectly in line with our mission. As their interview continues to garner views on The Vibe’s YouTube channel, Irish Twins are poised to make a lasting impact with their music and empowering messages. If you missed this dynamic interview, check it out below! To hear their debut single, “Go Crazy,” follow the group on social media and check out the song on all streaming platforms. With their infectious enthusiasm and undeniable talent, Pinky Menique and Big Dawgg Tee are set to redefine the rap scene, one beat at a time.
Vocalist. Songwriter. Performer. Houston native Shaleyah is a recording artist who elegantly brings something fresh and relatable to every performance. Her unique vocal approach and stunning stage presence have placed her in front of R&B, Pop, Jazz, and Gospel audiences nationally and internationally. Her mother, who is a pianist and choir director, was her first musical influence and nurtured her interest in the arts. Shaleyah began dancing at the age of three with Darlette Johnson, the renowned instructor who taught Beyonce Knowles. Shaleyah and Beyonce attended the same classes and competed together in national competitions. The undeniable feeling that came over Shaleyah while singing and dancing confirmed that this was the path for her. Most notably, she performed at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in DC, the Blue Note and Apollo Cafe in NYC, and Hotel Cafe in LA, in addition to gracing the stages at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and Essence Music Festival. She has charted on Billboard as an artist and songwriter, and has opened for Lalah Hathaway, Avery Sunshine, Yolanda Adams, and Tank & The Bangas. The former lead singer of Water Seed also maintained a three-month residency at a premier venue in Russia. Shaleyah has a passion for yoga and wellness, and can be seen practicing the art on social media. Her most recent EP, “More than Enough” and recent single, “Natural,” are available on all streaming platforms, including Spotify and Youtube. You can also find more about her upcoming work on her website. Shaleyah’s philosophy is simple, saying “music has the power to heal, uplift, and unify people from all walks of life.” Website: Shaleyah.com Facebook: @Shaleyah Instagram: @Shaleyah Twitter: @Shaleyah
Actor, comedian and entertainer Lil’ Duval has released his new shockingly funny video “Call My Ex.” Expounding on a joke featured in Duval’s first music and comedy special, “Living My Best Life,” the video is a telling and rather catchy spin on “wanting that old thing back” and the lengths to get it. Directed by CreedLife & Executive Produced by Harrison Corwin (Shotclock), “Call My Ex” will leave you thinking dialing up that blast from the past might just be worth it. CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO ON YOUTUBE. WARNING – Graphic lyrics The full special can be seen on http://lilduvallivingmybestlife.com, where fans can purchase 1 week of unlimited streaming for $5.99. Lil Duval’s “Living My Best Life” takes an intimate and hilarious look at life, sex, relationships, and the world in his first stand-up special. Filmed before a star-studded, live audience in Atlanta, Georgia – the hourlong special also features appearances from actress Bresha Webb (NBC’s Marlon), comedians Gary “G Thang” Johnson and Navaris “Navv” Greene, and social media star Pretty Vee.
Rising Latin R&B singer ZTILO is thrilled to announce that his debut EP, ‘No Hard Feelingz’, will see an independent release via streaming/digital platforms on November 12th! The debut record will serve as a celebration of the Bay Area native’s self-described “boy band trap” offerings in 2021, featuring recent singles like “Peligrosa,” “Manera,” and “I Got You” from earlier this summer. A first-generation Latin American who transitioned from the rap game to pursue more R&B/vocal-influenced music, Ztilo partnered with LA-based mixing engineer Zach Steele (Travis Scott, Trey Songz, The Weeknd) to produce the tracks on the new record; with Steele co-writing on the project as well. Speaking about ‘No Hard Feelingz’, Ztilo shares, “2021 has been an amazing start to this new chapter in my career and this project puts it all in perspective. Whether my music reaches fans of Latin, R&B, or pop I pride myself in bringing them all together in one place. Tell the major labels I said hi 👋” [Do yourself a favor… LISTEN to this music and see the video] In addition to the upcoming release of his debut EP, Ztilo is pleased to share a very special acoustic version of his song “I Got You,” which was both filmed and recorded at the renowned Clive Davis Theater inside the Grammy Museum. An exclusive video of the performance premiered via GRAMMY.com over the weekend for their series ‘Positive Vibes Only’, while the audio version of the acoustic will appear on “No Hard Feelingz.” Looking back on performing “I Got You” in the illustrious theater, Ztilo remarked, “Some of the biggest acts in music have performed here, and I’m just honored to share the stage with them.” Follow Ztilo on Instagram.
Early this summer, DJ XO announced his “Big Dreams” interactive promotional tour which has been making stops in his hometown of Houston, Oklahoma City, Austin, and Dallas, and Atlanta. With the release of the platinum DJ’s new project “Big Dreams” on the horizon, today he releases the project’s first single/Banger “Hood Hop” which features Georgia Native, Foogiano. The intro to the song immediately grabs the crowd’s attention. Followed by a catchy hook & verses that deliver a crazy wordplay. In XO’s words, “Be prepared….It’s going to be crazy!!” Many may have seen DJ XO djing for Kirko Bangz, Young Jeezy, T Grizzley, Lil Durk, and many others, but the multitalented DJ is also an artist and producer that has worked with some of the music industries top notables such as 2chainz, 21 Savage, Lil Uzi Vert, YFN Lucci, Lil Baby, Slim Thug, Lil Keke, Dave east, Erica Banks, Jazze Pha, OTB Fastlane, Erica Banks, and Twysted Genius, to name a few. The multi-talented artist/ producer has had a busy couple of years signing a partnership deal with the legendary Rap-A-Lot Records in 2019 and producing a chart-topping song for Moneybagg Yo & Blac Youngsta, 1,2,3 in the Spring of 2020. The song reached the top 10 on the Billboard Charts and was certified Gold. DJ XO is currently on the Rodwave Soulfly Tour through the end of the year. Make sure to keep up with XO on IG: @xonosleep
Longtime friends Omarion, Bow Wow & Soulja Boy have reunited for a sexy, melodic new single “EX.” Produced by Grammy award-winner Greg Curtis (Keyshia Cole, Destiny’s Child) the single is the first collaboration from the trio in 14 years. Listen HERE The collaboration comes alongside the start of the 2021 Millennium Tour which features all three artists in addition to The Ying Yang Twins, Sammie, Pretty Ricky, Lloyd and Ashanti. The tour kicked off this past weekend in Los Angeles with special guests Chris Brown, Snoop Dogg, Lizzo & more. Tickets for the the Millennium Tour are on sale now. Millennium Tour Dates 2021 October 7th – Pittsburgh, PA October 8th – Baltimore, MD October 10th – Detroit, MI October 15th – Greensboro, NC October 16th – Atlanta, GA October 17th – Charlotte, NC October 22nd – Prairie View, TX October 23rd – Sugarland, TX October 24th – New Orleans, LA October 28th – Milwaukee, WI October 29th – Chicago, IL October 30th – Nashville, TN October 31st – Cincinnati, OH November 5th – Miami, FL November 6th – Tampa, FL November 7th – Jacksonville, FL November 12th – Newark, NJ November 13th – Hampton, VA November 14th – Columbia, SC November 17th – Baton Rouge, LA November 19th – St. Louis, MO November 21st – Memphis, TN November 26th – Las Vegas, NV
Multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning music mogul Lil Wayne recently announced he’ll be launching the “Tha Carter Singles Collection” 7” vinyl box set, which will feature 19 of Wayne’s biggest “Tha Carter” series hits on 45 for the first time ever. To commemorate the launch, Wayne also dropped the unreleased Tha Carter III era track “Ya Dig” on streaming services via Young Money Records/Republic Records. The track will also be featured in the box set, which will come complete with liner notes and a booklet of rare photos. Full tracklisting can be found below; additional details to come soon. The set will be available here. STREAM “YA DIG” HERE The announcement follows the release of Lil Wayne and Rich The Kid’s blockbuster collaborative mixtape, Trust Fund Babies (listen HERE). The chart-topping rappers also served up a new joint single and video entitled “Feelin’ Like Tunechi.” Earlier this year, Wayne released Tha Carter IV (Complete Edition) on streaming platforms in celebration of the critically acclaimed album’s 10th anniversary. Wayne also launched the specialty Tha Carter IV Topps trading cards – making him the first rapper to have his own trading card collection. “Tha Carter Singles Collection” Tracklist: 1A. Go DJ (Single Edit) 1B. Bring It Back (Single Edit) 2A. Shine (Single Edit) 2B. Fireman (Single Edit) 3A. Hustler Musik (Single Edit) 3B. Shooter (Single Edit) 4A. A Milli 4B. Got Money 5A. Lollipop (Single Edit) 5B. Mrs. Officer (Single Edit) 6A. Comfortable (Singe Edit) 6B. 6 Foot 7 7A. How To Love 7B. John (Single Edit) 8A. She Will (Single Edit) 8B. It’s Good 9A. Mirror 9B. Uproar 10A. Mona Lisa (Single Edit) 10B. Ya Dig
Houston-based rapper-producer BBY Kodie has recently released his powerful new single, “Children,” via True Panther/EQT/Motown Records. The provocative, richly cinematic official video for “Children” immerses Kodie in vibrant, visceral tableaux that reference the Baroque historical paintings of Caravaggio, capturing moments in history like the the Last Supper and the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The stirring video was helmed by directors Nyles Washington, Ross Constable and Elias Morrow Weinberg. The “Children” video follows “Korleone” which was named one of the best rap videos of 2020 by Rolling Stone, which said, “BBY Kodie seems quietly ascendant. With the attitude of someone who spent 2020 building in secret, ‘Korleone’ arrives almost fully realized. BBY Kodie has described himself as Houston’s answer to Drake and it’s increasingly clear how serious he is.” Born in Lake Charles, Louisiana in 2000, Kodie was raised by his biological mother’s adopted sister and her husband, who moved to Houston when he was two. There, Kodie grew up with jazz and soul blaring through the house. As a teenager, he discovered rappers Future, Young Thug and Lil Yachty alongside Houston legends like Lil Flip – and channeled his influences into his first beats on Fruity Loops. By high school, he was dropping a song a day on SoundCloud. He began throwing biweekly DIY shows with HVN, growing his fanbase locally and online. For the 20-year-old rapper-producer, putting words together is an art form based in the Texas lineage of flexing and freestyling. “When you grow up on that sh**, it just gets embedded in your skin,” BBY Kodie explains. “It’s like putting the ugliest words on the most beautiful beats.” Albums like 2018’s “Kodie Kardashian” and 2019’s “Vogue” marked gradual steps away from the innocent charm of his earlier songs towards a more polished artistic vision that coalesces on his forthcoming mixtape. Naming Kodie one of the best new artists, Pigeons & Planes said, “the budding talent operates on a high-octane field of his own, confident as hell and raring to bring the world to Houston.” Instagram: @bbykodie
Dropping what might be his biggest collaboration yet, rising superstar and multi-platinum singer Jacquees serves up a brand new single entitled “Not Jus Anybody,” featuring Future. As a stark piano drips in the background, he immediately captivates with his signature show-stopping vocal range on point. Meanwhile, GRAMMY® Award-winning multi-platinum hip-hop titan Future rolls through with otherworldly rhymes and a hazy melody. The track unites two Atlanta forces together once more, and the results immediately overpower in the best way. The music video, directed by Jon J, premiered recently on all streaming channels. Jacquees recently shared “Bed Friend,” featuring Queen Naija. Right out of the gate, it racked up over 2 million Spotify streams. HYPEBEAST named it among the “Best New Tracks,” and Vibe raved, “This composition is one that has bedroom burner written all over it.” Just prior, his single “Freaky As Me,” featuring Mulatto eclipsed 2.8 million Spotify streams and 2.1 million views on the video. Last month, Jacquees took the stage for a performance at the 6th Annual Black Music Honors hosted by Loni Love on Bounce TV, delivering a blockbuster tribute performance of honoree Ginuwine’s hit, “So Anxious.” Jacquees joined Cece Winans, Montell Jordan, Chrisette Michele, Zacardi Cortez, and more. As a testament to Jacquees’ unprecedented success and reign at the top of R&B, the talented singer has achieved several milestones: his debut album 4275 is RIAA gold-certified and has a string of top-selling hits including “B.E.D.”(double-platinum) and “At The Club,” featuring Dej Loaf (platinum) and “Your Peace,” featuring Lil Baby (gold).
GRAMMY® nominated rapper, dancer and singer-songwriter Raja Kumari has recently unveiled her new single, “Firestarter,” released via Mass Appeal India in partnership with Capitol Records. The record mixes trap beats with Indian classical music, continuing Raja’s mission to trailblaze a musical connection between the East and the West. The “Firestarter” video is directed by MTV VMA 2020 titleholder Michael Garcia. Emerging as a disruptive force in hip-hop, Raja Kumari received a songwriter award at the BMI Pop Awards, and is the host and curator of her own Apple Music Beats 1 show, The New India, where she spotlights some of India’s brightest new talents. Kumari is a series judge and mentor on MTV Hustle, India’s first rap-reality show, a global face of MAC Cosmetics, and the first female rapper to be signed to Mass Appeal India. Indo-American Kumari has been sought out for collaborations with Gwen Stefani, Iggy Azalea, Fifth Harmony, Knife Party, Fall Out Boy and more. “After the last 16 months that we spent in the pandemic it was important for me to put out something that represented what I was going through. I just love how universal the record is and how it’s for everyone. The song represents being reborn and rising from the ashes like a phoenix and the need to constantly reinvent yourself and not being fearful about it,” Kumari said. “This is my 25th music video and I have accepted now that it’s my job to make these visual pieces of musical art. It’s been almost two years since I’ve been on the set, specifically for my own independent music video, where it’s about the fashion and the production. This is the first time that I didn’t take the whole creation process too seriously as I wanted it to be fun and free flowing.”
