There’s something undeniable about Chicago. The rhythm of our streets, the depth of our history, and the influence we hold in shaping urban culture across the nation and internationally, it runs deep. From house music and footwork to conscious rap and drill, Chicago has been a cultural cornerstone, birthing movements and voices that echo far beyond city limits.
That’s why moments like GloRilla giving Queen Key her flowers 💐 hit different. It’s more than just a viral moment, it’s recognition of legacy, talent, and the resilience of a city that has long been under credited and over influential.
Queen Key has always represented raw, unapologetic energy, the essence of what it means to be from the Chi and its surrounding communities. For another artist to publicly uplift her on tour is a powerful testament to sisterhood and respect in hip hop, especially amongst women at that young women, in an era where the city’s women are claiming space louder than ever.
Chicago isn’t just on the map, we are the map. The artists, the culture, the style, the stories, we influence the world, and it’s about time that legacy is consistently honored.
Chicago–Fat Money (formerly Ty Money), a prominent Harvey-Chicago rapper and lyricist, continues to make significant strides in the hip hop scene. Renowned for his sharp lyricism and deep rooted Chicago influences, Fat Money has been a consistent presence in the industry since 2014, releasing multiple studio albums and mixtapes.
In 2022, Fat Money collaborated with Kanye West on the Donda 2 album, contributing as a co-writer and recording several reference tracks for both released and unreleased songs. This collaboration not only showcased his versatility but also solidified his position among hip-hop’s elite with a sought after swag & sound. He’s also worked with Snoop Dogg & Dr. Dre.
Building on this momentum, Fat Money has unveiled his latest project, CincoDeToven, a collaborative effort with legendary producer Zaytoven. This release is part of his annual CincoDeMoney series, traditionally launched on Cinco de Mayo. CincoDeToven blends Fat Money’s incisive storytelling with Zaytoven’s signature trap symphonies, offering a fresh yet familiar soundscape for fans.
Meanwhile, Kanye West’s Donda 2 has been at the center of several legal disputes. The album, initially released exclusively through West’s $200 Stem Player device, faced challenges due to its unconventional distribution method. Producers like ATL Jacob, who worked on tracks such as “Pablo,” “Keep It Burning,” and “Louie Bags,” have reported not receiving payment for their contributions, citing confusion over royalty distributions stemming from the album’s release strategy.
Additionally, West faces multiple lawsuits over unauthorized samples used in Donda 2. Notably, Ultra International Music Publishing sued him for allegedly sampling Marshall Jefferson’s 1986 track “Move Your Body” without permission in the song “Flowers.” Another lawsuit by Artist Revenue Advocates LLC claims that West misused music created by several artists in his songs “Hurricane” and “Moon” without proper authorization.
Despite these controversies, Fat Money’s trajectory remains upward. His collaboration with Zaytoven on CincoDeToven and his involvement in high-profile projects like Donda 2 underscore his growing influence and commitment to pushing creative boundaries in hip-hop. Listen, purchase, and save the project here.
In today’s world, it’s not enough to blend in and play it safe. The secret to standing out isn’t in chasing trends or shouting louder than everyone else, it’s in being unapologetically authentic.
As a transformational branding consultant, I specialize in helping businesses and professionals unlock their unique voice and energy to create authentic initiatives, messages, and content that don’t feel like ads but still get results. It’s about crafting experiences that resonate deeply with your audience, building trust, and creating lasting connections.
Chris Do of The Futur with a a strategy that will transform your business this 2025!
Here’s what I believe:
💡 Authenticity automatically sets you apart. When you embrace who you truly are: your values, your purpose, your vision; you don’t need to force attention. Your uniqueness is your advantage.
💡 Strategy beats energy leaks. Stop scattering your efforts across trends that don’t align with your goals. Instead, channel your energy strategically to amplify your strengths, attract the right opportunities, and build sustainable momentum. (Note to self!)
💡 Purposeful messaging over flashy ads. Consumers can spot insincerity a mile away. I help my clients design branding initiatives that not only feel real but are real, not forced, aligning every word, visual, and action with the heart of their brand.
If you’re ready to break free from the noise, create authentic impact, and build a brand that speaks for itself, let’s connect. Together, we’ll transform your brand into a bold, strategic, and authentic reflection of your purpose.
In today’s fast-paced digital world, email remains one of the most essential tools for building connections, driving initiatives, and closing deals. Whether you’re a social entrepreneur pitching your latest venture, a college student reaching out to a professor, or a business owner collaborating with partners, mastering email etiquette is critical to making a strong and lasting impression.
As a communications generalist and account executive with experience in branding, marketing, and public relations, I know how vital it is to communicate effectively, especially when representing yourself or your organization. Below are actionable tips tailored to those looking to elevate their email communication.
Be Intentional with Your Subject Line
Your subject line is like the headline of a news article—it needs to grab attention while being clear and concise. • For Entrepreneurs: “Collaboration Opportunity: Enhancing Community Impact Together” • For Students: “Request for Feedback on Internship Proposal”
A strong subject line sets the tone for the email and helps the recipient prioritize your message.
Use a Friendly Yet Professional Greeting
Address your recipient by name whenever possible. Personalization shows effort and respect, especially when reaching out to someone new. Example: “Dear Dr. Johnson,” (formal) “Hi Alex,” (semi-formal) “Hello Team,” (group email)
Avoid generic greetings like “To Whom It May Concern,” which can feel impersonal.
Get to the Point Quickly
Whether you’re proposing a collaboration, asking for advice, or updating someone on a project, respect their time by getting straight to the point. • Before: “My name is Briyana Kelly, and I’m writing to introduce myself and share a little about my background and why I think we’d be a good fit to work together.” • After: “I’m Briyana Kelly, the founder of FEED THE HOOD NFP. I’m reaching out to discuss a potential collaboration on {Specific Project}. Let me know if you’d be available for a 15-minute call this week.”
Show Your Value
When reaching out to potential collaborators, mentors, or clients, briefly explain why you’re reaching out and what’s in it for them. • For Social Entrepreneurs: “Our nonprofit specializes in workforce development for marginalized communities, and I’d love to explore how we can partner with your organization to expand your impact.” • For College Students: “I admire your work in [specific area] and would appreciate the opportunity to learn from your experience through a brief informational interview.”
Be Polite and Mindful of Tone
Your tone can make or break your email. Strike a balance between professionalism and approachability. • Use polite phrases like: • “I would appreciate it if…” • “Would you mind sharing…” • “Thank you for your time and consideration.” • End with a positive closing, such as: • “Looking forward to hearing from you!” • “Thank you for your support!”
Proofread for Clarity and Grammar
A polished email reflects your attention to detail, which is especially important for entrepreneurs pitching ideas or students applying for opportunities. Before hitting send: • Check for typos or grammatical errors. • Ensure your tone aligns with the purpose of your email. • Confirm you’ve included the correct names, dates, and attachments.
Include a Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)
Your recipient should know exactly what you need from them and when.
Examples of CTAs:
• “Please let me know if you’re available for a meeting next week.” • “Kindly review the attached proposal and share your feedback by Friday.” • “I’d appreciate it if you could connect me with someone from your team who handles partnerships.”
Attach Files and Links Thoughtfully
If you’re including an attachment or link, mention it in the body of your email so the recipient knows what to look for. • Example: “I’ve attached our most recent annual report for your review. You’ll find details on our impact metrics on page 5.”
Always double-check that you’ve attached the correct file or included the right link before sending.
Use “Reply All” and CC Sparingly
If you’re part of a group email thread, only use “Reply All” when everyone truly needs to see your response. Avoid clogging inboxes with unnecessary replies.
End with a Professional Signature
Your email signature should be simple but informative, especially if you’re an entrepreneur or college student looking to establish credibility. • For Entrepreneurs: [Your Full Name] Founder, [Organization Name] [Phone Number] | [Email Address] | [Website] • For Students or Recent Graduates: [Your Full Name] [University Name], Class of [Year] [Email Address] | [LinkedIn Profile Link]
Timing is Everything
Send your emails during regular business hours to increase the likelihood of a timely response. If your recipient is in a different time zone, consider scheduling your email accordingly.
Why Email Etiquette Matters for Your Audience
For social entrepreneurs, college students, and emerging leaders, every email is an opportunity to build relationships, showcase professionalism, and leave a positive impression. Thoughtful, well-crafted emails not only demonstrate respect for the recipient’s time but also position you as someone worth engaging with whether you’re pitching a new idea, applying for an internship, or seeking mentorship.
By following these tips, you’ll enhance your communication skills and open doors to meaningful collaborations, funding opportunities, and career growth.
Would you like personalized examples or templates tailored to your industry? Let’s take your email communication to the next level!
Jay-Z Diddy I do not own the rights to these images
In the latest chapter of what’s quickly becoming one of the most shocking scandals in entertainment, Sean “Diddy” Combs & Jay-Z is facing new legal trouble. A civil lawsuit filed under New York’s Adult Survivors Act alleges that Diddy & Jay-S raped a 13-year-old girl during a post-MTV Video Music Awards party in 2000.
The anonymous plaintiff, now 37, claims she was drugged at the party and later assaulted by Combs and another unidentified male celebrity. According to the suit, a well-known female celebrity allegedly stood by and watched the attack happen. These are serious allegations that have cast an even darker shadow over Diddy, who’s already been accused of sexual abuse in multiple other lawsuits over the past
This latest case isn’t an isolated incident, it’s one of several lawsuits filed against Diddy under New York’s Adult Survivors Act. The law, which temporarily extended the statute of limitations for survivors to bring forward cases of sexual abuse, has opened the floodgates for long-hidden accusations in the entertainment world.
Diddy is also grappling with federal sex trafficking charges and remains in custody after being denied bail twice. While his legal team continues to deny all allegations, the number of claims stacking up against him paints a troubling picture. The story is still unfolding.
What About Jay-Z?
Reports didn’t mention Jay-Z in connection with earlier filings on October 20, but the latest refiled lawsuit on December 8 naming Jay-Z, does directly implicate him in this case. This leaves questions hanging about whether other figures in the industry will be dragged into the legal drama.
His legal team released a statement via Roc Nation on X:
PR Team’s CommunicationsLawyer of Plaintiff ‘s Response via X.
Why This Matters
For years, the hip-hop industry (and many others) have been dogged by rumors of abuse, exploitation, and unchecked power. Now, with lawsuits like this coming to light, the culture and society are being forced to reckon with its darker side. The allegations against Diddy don’t just implicate him but they raise concerns about how power, wealth, and influence have shielded people from accountability for decades.
As this story develops, it’s clear that these accusations are bigger than Diddy & many in power, it’s a human rights issue.It’s about a systemic issue that has harmed too many people for far too long.
We’ll be watching as the court proceedings unfold. Justice, it seems, is finally knocking at the door of the elite but let’s hope it doesn’t just clean out the predators in Hip Hop only.
Atlanta, Apr. 9, 2019-Old news but new to me and maybe to you too, Seven people were indicted at Fort Valley State University for prostitution allegedly led by Alecia Jeanetta Johnson, 49 with six men who were also indicted including Ernest Harvey (Assistant Principal at Middle School), 47, Kenneth Howard (City Manager for Hinesville, GA), 56, Ryan Jenkins, 35, Charles Jones (Director of Corporate and Government Affairs), 57, Arthur James Nance Jr (County Commissioner)., 46 and Devontae Little (Former Employee at Youth Center), 26. They supposedly were trying to raise money for pledge fees of the Alpha Beta Chapter of AKA.
Image Source: Peach County Sheriff’s Office (provided by Rollingout Dot Com)
“At the center of these allegations is Alecia Johnson, who resigned from her position at Fort Valley State as an executive assistant working in the office of the president(Rollingout, 2018). According to media outlet WSB-TV, Johnson is not only an AKA but also served as the faculty advisor for the Fort Valley chapter (Rollingout, 2018). She had been an employee at the school since 2004 and at the time of her resignation earned around $64K a year (Rollingout, 2018).”
Alecia Johnson accused of being a part of sex misconduct of sorority pledges (Photo Source: Fort Valley State University Website now deleted image provided by Rollingout Dot Com)
The chapter’s privileges have been withdrawn until the completion of the investigation. My only remark is they wild ass hell.
You know Albert “Prodigy” Johnson as 1/2 of Mobb Deep. The Infamous, Mobb Deep who brought you “Shook Ones” and “Quiet Storm”. The Hip Hop Community has definitely lost a real one but gained a “G” angel 😇.
Prodigy comes from rich “African American” history. His great-great-great grandfather 👴🏽 ,William Jefferson White, is responsible for founding Morehouse College along with three other fellas. He started the prestigious college in his church basement from humble beginnings.
Images are subject to copyrights. I do not own these images
His grandfather 👴🏽 Albert “Budd” Johnson was an “African American” saxophonist and clarinetist. He has worked with Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, Dizzy Gillespie, and Earl Hines. He’s worked with many more music 🎶 pioneers of his time. As you can see below he reseambles his grandfather.
Images are subject to copyright. I do not own this image. This image is subject to copyright. I do not own this image
Many celebrities and culture enthusiasts from the Hip Hop Community have shared their memorable moments of Prodigy. Here’s some below.
Nas, 50 Cent, and many more shared there condolences.
The ancestor and late Hip-Hop artist Prodigy, one half of Mobb Deep, spoke up consistently about his experience and knowledge of the forces running society. He was critically autonomous and dropped seeds at a consistent yet subtle rate to build up a space for ones to have an open conversation about things we don’t question or seem to think about. It is in insult to make us think he died from choking on a boiled egg.
We like to think that conspiracies are just theories but ones must be mindful of the base word without the second term added to it because you can possibly make an ass out of yourself when you are being guided by governmental agencies and agents who do not care about you being well and prosperous but you being in poverty because it gives them the space to provide solutions to problems they’ve caused members in society to react to. Then seemingly at a later date you find out that those conspiracies were true like who killed Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, and Fred Hampton or even that “blacks” are being conspired against to be exterminated through eugenics. At one point all these subjects were labeled as conspiracy theories.
It’s important in this new age to be informed (and not ill informed) because information is readily available to us at the drop of a finger if we seek and ask the right questions. You have to be open mined and not bias when doing the research and reviewing artifacts because you may not understand, comprehend, like, or believe the information you discover because some of the things you may find may seem unreal or not possible by a group of people or an individual; or aligns with what you have already been programmed with. As humans we are super beings in this reality and we can so anything.
The Bavarian Illuminati and Founder
The Hegelian Dialect , according to Real News Australia, is a philosophy that means all reality is capable of being expressed synthetically, creating a false sense of unity within a system.
Edward Snowden has opened our eyes on one of those categories that reveals what this looks like in modern time, exposing us to the “higher ups” invading our privacy.
“How your cell phone spies on you”
The Golden Age of Civilization relies on Indigenous ones in America and beyond.
Hi Family and friends, we’re inviting you for a Father’s Day celebration 🎉 join us, Mić & BK, for the fight where Gervonta Davis versus 🆚 Frank Martin presented by Premier Boxing Champions 🥊. We will have wings and tequila for tastings. You can bring your drinks and smoke 💨 if you would like to. If you smoke 💨 cigarettes or cigars, we have a deck and patio area available.
Chicago, IL-The three-day weekend was informational and rewarding spent supporting violence prevention, interruption, and peace efforts. I attended events where I learned about the importance of a new approach to violence and other social conflicts that is creating a new industry for social entrepreneurship.
First, I attended a symposium about the pathways to building and sustaining healthy communities through community violence intervention work. Afterward, I walked for peace with ALSO and their community partners.
Flyer for symposium on mental health
Walk For Peace in Humboldt Park
I went to shop and stumbled across live music in the park and so I decided to walk through the park to observe the entertainment. There were people getting sun, doing tai chi, playing soccer and enjoying family time.
We can end gun violence and family supporting #livingforisaiahHumboldt Park Fiestas Patronales PuertoriqueñasChicago Avenue Community Network Foundation Members.Crowd by the mobile gaming platform at the walk for peace.No Kids Die In The Chi nonprofit with the children.The stage area at the Walk for Peace.The crowd of community partners, staff and participants.Channel 7 news parked by the My future My Chi tent.The crowd in Humboldt Park was full of community residents, family and friends.Play area for the children when bouncy houses.ALSO tents with different supporting organizations greeting and gifting guest.Pictures from the Walk For Peace
Communications Generalist | Cultural Strategist | Data & Business Analyst 