Tag: Music

Ju Jilla’s “Reach Higher” Sets the Bar for Summer Hip Hop

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Ju Jilla’s Reach Higher stands out as one of the best hip hop projects to drop this summer. From start to finish, the body of work is carefully arranged, creating a seamless listening experience that feels intentional and elevated. Each track flows into the next without losing momentum, showcasing Ju Jilla’s skill in curating not just songs, but a complete story.

Listen to the project here and let me know in the comments what you think 🤔

The features are thoughtfully chosen, adding depth and variety without overshadowing Ju Jilla’s presence. His lyricism is sharp yet effortless, with true to life storytelling delivered in a way that feels both authentic and aspirational, almost like high fashion for the ears. The project blends grit with elegance, reminding us that hip hop can be both raw and refined at the same time; that it’s ok as a man to need a therapist to elevate.

Reach Higher isn’t just music; it’s a statement. It’s the kind of project you replay, not only for the beats and bars, but for the craft that went into making it a cohesive, memorable piece of art.

Ju also dropped another project.

Easy O’Hare Brings Nightmare O’Hare to Life on Friday the 13th 😈

Culture News, Entertainment, Hip Hop, Culture, and Political Tricks

Chicago – On the notoriously eerie date of Friday the 13th, Easy O’Hare fused horror and hip-hop in a way only he could, with the release of his latest album, Nightmare O’Hare. Held at The New Jo’s Bar and Grill in Merrillville, Indiana, the release event transported fans and peers into an immersive experience where sound collided with storytelling in a night full of adrenaline, ambiance, and authenticity.

But what’s the big deal with Friday the 13th?

For centuries, the number 13 has carried a reputation for bad luck, and when it lands on a Friday, that superstitious energy hits different. The fear is so widespread it has its own name: paraskevidekatriaphobia. Pop culture took it even further in 1980 with the horror classic Friday the 13th, introducing Jason Voorhees; the silent, masked killer who haunted Camp Crystal Lake and slashed his way into horror history. Since then, the date has come to symbolize fear, suspense, and rebellion; making it the perfect backdrop for Easy O’Hare’s latest creative strike.

His statement? It’s giving serial killer energy.

And he’s killing these other rappers especially when it comes to the way he curates his musical projects.

Nightmare O’Hare captures that chaotic yet calculated vibe. It’s raw, cinematic, and deeply unsettling in the best way. The album rides moody production and vivid lyricism, exploring the gritty realities of urban life, survival, and the kind of darkness you face when you’re moving a certain way.

When I rap it gets scary for the competition and we chose a beat selection that fit the mood of how scary it can actually get. With this project I was showing I can pop up outta nowhere with new music at any given time after my listeners hear Nightmare O’Hare they’ll definitely go download the past projects to get all the way tapped in with me.


The theme originated from a past rap beef where I had to switch forms from Easy O’Hare to nightmare

-Easy O’Hare

The Performance

Easy’s stage presence brought the music to life with gritty emotion and undeniable power. And the supporting acts? Just as heavy. The room was charged with energy, filled with people who came to show love and stayed to be moved. It was a whole vibe and yes, the chicken was fire too.

The Artist

  • Rico Moneyy
  • Kdoug Jr
  • Aboog
  • D’kno Mr.KNOITALL
  • ESC Deez
  • Fly cool club
  • Big Nastee
  • Easy O’Hare
  • Coldhard

The Bigger Picture

With Nightmare O’Hare, Easy doesn’t just drop music, he curates experiences and releases projects with precision. He proves that there’s room for 40-year-old rappers who trap 🏚️🪤 with strategy, successfully. This isn’t a moment; it’s a method.

Nightmare O’Hare is now streaming on all major platforms.

Stay tuned for visuals, BTS moments, and more drops by following him on Instagram: @easyohare_

Easy O’Hare Is Still Taking Flight ✈️ : From Cabin Pressure to Young Bulls

Culture News

Chicago-Easy O’Hare, a standout voice in Chicago’s hip hop scene, teamed up with producer Uncle JoNH III to release Cabin Pressure, a tightly crafted 9 track album that dropped in 2024. Known for its gritty sound, sharp lyricism, and unapologetically Chicago feel, the project showcased Easy’s ability to turn personal stories and city life into immersive music. From soulful samples to streetwise bars, Cabin Pressure solidified his rep as an artist with staying power.

Single from Cabin Pressure

One of the album’s highlights, “KeepItTall,” featuring ESC Deez, has received new attention with a freshly released visual that captures the raw chemistry between the two. Watch the new video below 👇🏽. It’s a reminder that real art doesn’t fade, it grows with the artist.

Adding to the momentum, Easy O’Hare and ESC Deez recently joined forces again for “Bs,” the official theme song for the upcoming TV series Young Bulls. Promoted globally by Milwaukee’s own KB The Playmaker, and executive produced by industry veterans Stan Sheppard and Glasses Malone, Young Bulls shines a spotlight on Midwest talent, and Easy’s voice leads the charge. Check out the “Bs” video here, and you’ll see why this duo continues to demand attention.

From the Cabin Pressure cockpit to television soundtracks, Easy O’Hare is flying on his own frequency and the culture is catching up.

Listen to Cabin Pressure on all platforms and click here to listen.

Stay tune for Cabin Pressure Reloaded & catch him performing this summer.

Fat Money Levels Up: From Donda 2 Collaborator to CincoDeToven with Zaytoven

Culture News, Economics, Entertainment, Hip Hop, Culture, and Political Tricks, What's Good?

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.

The Reality of Pursuing a Rap Career After 40: Strategy, Success, and Longevity

Culture News

In the hip-hop industry, timing is everything. While some artists establish their careers early and maintain relevance into their 40s, others enter the rap game later in life. Understanding these trajectories provides valuable insight into the realities of success, longevity, and sustainability in hip-hop.

As a communications strategist and brand positioning expert, I’ve worked with artists and brands to help them navigate their careers effectively. The truth is, pivoting at 40 can be a power move, one that allows artists to transition into more sustainable careers rather than chasing an unrealistic dream.

Artists Who Achieved Success Before 40 and Sustained Their Careers

Many renowned hip-hop artists built solid careers before turning 40, allowing them to maintain longevity and evolve over time:

Mainstream Veterans with Decades of Longevity

  • Jay-Z (born 1969) – Released his debut album Reasonable Doubt at 26. By 47, his album 4:44 was critically acclaimed, showcasing his ability to evolve with age.
  • Eminem (born 1972) – Gained fame with The Slim Shady LP at 27 and has continued to release successful projects well into his 40s.
  • Snoop Dogg (born 1971) – Dropped Doggystyle at 22 and remains a cultural icon with a multi-faceted career.
  • Freddie Gibbs (born 1982) – Released his debut ESGN at 31, but had been grinding for over a decade prior, showcasing how sustained effort pays off.

Griselda and the Boom-Bap Resurgence

  • Westside Gunn (born 1982) – Co-founded Griselda Records in 2012 and released Flygod at 34, proving longevity is possible with a solid foundation.
  • Benny the Butcher (born 1984) – Gained prominence with Tana Talk 3 at 34, but had been building his craft long before mainstream recognition.
  • Boldy James (born 1982) – Released his debut at 31, showing that staying consistent and working with strong producers can keep an artist relevant.
  • Armani Caesar (born 1989) – Entered the industry young but gained widespread attention after signing with Griselda in 2020.

These artists had one thing in common: they put in the work before turning 40, building organic fan bases, networking, and proving their worth in the industry long before mainstream success.

Artists Who Started Their Rap Careers After 40

While less common, some artists have attempted to launch rap careers after 40. The challenge is immense, breaking into an industry that thrives on youth-driven content, energy, and cultural trends is not easy.

Artists Who Started Their Rap Careers After 40

While less common, some artists have attempted to launch rap careers after 40. The challenge is immense, breaking into an industry that thrives on youth-driven content, energy, and cultural trends is not easy.

  • MF Doom – While active in the 1990s, his career saw a resurgence in his 40s due to his underground cult following.
  • Money Man (born 1986) – Gained recognition later in his career, but his financial literacy and business acumen helped sustain his relevance.

Why Pivoting at 40 Can Be a Power Move

For artists pushing 40 who have not built a solid foundation, pivoting is not giving up, it’s a strategic transition. Here’s why:

  • Sustainability – If rapping hasn’t become a full-time career by 40, it’s wise to explore other avenues in entertainment such as A&R, production, executive roles, or brand partnerships.
  • Diversification – Many successful artists over 40 expand into businesses, podcasting, film, and other ventures to maintain financial stability.
  • Authenticity – A 40-year-old artist competing with young rappers on trends that don’t match their lifestyle can appear inauthentic. Instead, mature artists can embrace storytelling, mentorship, or niche audiences.

Hip-Hop Career Realism in Conclusion

The hip-hop industry favors those who lay their foundation early. While there are always exceptions, it is rare for someone to start rapping at 40 and achieve financial success. However, this doesn’t mean music must be abandoned, it just means rethinking the approach.

For those truly dedicated to hip-hop, transitioning into executive roles, branding, or a genre shift (e.g., jazz, spoken word, podcasting) can be a power move rather than a loss.

Hip-hop is about evolution, understanding when to pivot can be the difference between chasing a dream and building a lasting legacy.

The Latest in Hip-Hop: Diddy & Jay-Z Faces Explosive New Lawsuit Over Alleged Sexual Assault of a Minor in 2000

Culture News, Entertainment, Hip Hop, Culture, and Political Tricks
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

The Accusations in Context

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 Communications
Lawyer 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.

Sources: NBC News, CrimeOnline, People,

Benny The Butcher In Chicago, Live at Promontory: Tana Talk 4

Culture News, Entertainment, Hip Hop, Culture, and Political Tricks, What's Good?

This is a developing story, I have more to share.

Mr. Butcher is now added to my list of street artists, thanks to Covert Operations. His storytelling is impeccable. Once I saw my cousins, Charles and Paris in the mix, I knew that he had to be something decent but I had no clue he was going to be something this valuable to hip hop culture. Not that I was even expecting anything less because my people have good taste in music and culture, but just like the old head said. “Would you rather have one Maybach or 5 Acuras? He was framing the context of quality music from conception to modern flowing art. I wasn’t aware of who he was but I know now.

Press Associate Kash Photography of New York

“The concert atmosphere was lit. He could have done more songs”

Benny The Butcher Guest

I enjoyed the hip-hop enthusiast vibes and the game from a mid-range perspective. First day back outside, and this gives me clarity of the beats I need to be on for reviews, interviews, and media mixing.

The opening talent was solid, Enos and King Drive is whom I remember. I missed a few artists performing, but I did meet some artists backstage that was graceful, Corey St.Rose & Kid Flvsh. The event was sold out three days before the live show, with guests filling the venue from wall to wall. To walk to the bar was a tour, bumping into fellow peers and natives of the culture.

I look forward to seeing more of Benny The Butcher in the city. If you’re looking for high-end urban culture subscribe to Covert Operations for events, booking, and management. First time in Chicago? Need a social place? The Promontory is a good choice for established social services and food in the heart of the Chicago Culture. 

@theestallion, Contracts, and the Business of Music at a Young Age

Culture News, Hip Hop, Culture, and Political Tricks
Megan Thee Stallion
Erik Voake/Getty Images for Roc Nation
I do not own the copyrights to this image.

Megan Thee Stallion is in for a big lesson when it comes to finance and contracts. March 1, Megan shared a video via Instagram dishing her contract details with 1501 Entertainment, and its CEO Carl Crawford, who’s an ex Major League Baseball player. She stated that she didn’t understand or know the verbiage that was in the contract that she signed at 20 years of age (now 25), and when she finally got a real management team with lawyers through her management deal with Roc Nation, they brought the details up to see if she understood the terms. She stated she didn’t and wanted to renegotiate. The label isn’t in favor of her releasing new music but is being sued by the artist who is seeking the termination of her contract and a temporary restraining order that has been granted by a judge in Harris County, Texas, to allow her to release new music.

Megan has accused the defendants of common law fraud, breach of contract, fraudulent inducement, fraud by non-disclosure, tortious interference with prospective business relations, violation of the Deceptive Trade Practices Consumer Protection Act, negligent misrepresentation, breach of fiduciary duty and negligence. The plaintiff is seeking a temporary and permanent injunction and a declaration that her contract is “unconscionable, unenforceable and/or void.”, according to the court documents obtained by E! News.  The restraining order will expire March 16, 2020 at 11:59 PM.

What can we learn from this?

It’s important to ask questions when negotiating agreements and understanding all the terms. If you can’t afford a lawyer, it’s important to consult with people in the industry. It’s better than signing something then later having to renege on your business deal.

Yes Megan was young, and I do side with her being taken advantage of because it’s a painful history of artist being incarcerated in deals that do not serve them but those who invest in their capital to record, release, promote, and distribute their art deserve a return (ROI). I hope that this situation can be worked out because everyone deserves an accurate return based on their investment.

Rapper “Pop Smoke” Dead at 20.

Culture News

Rapper Killed In a Alleged Home Invasion ‼️

Bashar Barakah Jackson, known professionally as Pop Smoke, was an American rapper and songwriter whom home was invaded by two men with hoodies who fired multiple shots critically wounding Pop Smoke, as it was reported by TMZ. He was signed to Victor Victor Worldwide and Republic Records and released his first single “Welcome to the Party” in April 2019.

According to TMZ, this incident happened around 4:30 AM in the Hollywood Hills and he was rushed by Ambulance to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in West Hollywood where he was pronounced dead. His home was believed to be rented, and was owned by Real Housewives of Beverly Hills Star Teddi Mellencamp‘s husband, Edwin Arroyave who owns several homes in LA.

One suspect was handcuffed but later released as he was determined not be involved. No one has been caught or identified; as far as we know according to TMZ. Unidentifiable source says his brother is one of the main suspects, allegedly.

Rest In Peace Pop.

Featured Image Credit: SUZANNE CORDEIRO/AFP via Getty Images)

Updated Story

Mike Dee, Pop’s Brother speaks out against the allegations from speculators and “public investigators”.

Pop Smoke 💨 murder also appears to be a target according to TMZ’s recent report as they share information supported by the surveillance footage.

“… you see 4 men approach the home at around 4:30 AM and sneak around back. A couple minutes pass before 3 of the 4 walk back up the side of the home to the front. The 4th apparently walked in the backdoor but no camera was trained on it. The next time you see the man, he exits through the front door of the house.”

It was reported that it was multiple shots fired inside the home only to have struck Pop Smoke according to the evidence provided to TMZ, there were no other victims.

Continue reading “Rapper “Pop Smoke” Dead at 20.” →

Chicago’s Legend in Making @FBG_DUCK Has Self-Confessed Chicago’s Legends

Culture News

FBG Duck, a Chicago Musical Illustrator, published a video recorded by Money Strong TV on his channel two days ago on Dec. 7, 2019; and with the apparent loss of legends from the City of Chicago, who are without a doubt gone too soon because of various tragic situations; he proclaims their affects in and on culture. In his illustrated story he mentions Jojo, Pappy, Zack TV, Lil Marc, Dooski, Nuski, Fredo Santana, LA Capone, Lil Mister, and Smylez. With the current loss of another great Chicago Legend Juice Wrld; and Famous Dex being recently hospitalized to recover from seizures, there is no concrete word if he has been released, there is much to be concerned about.

The murder and drug epidemic of Chicago has depreciated the circulation of producers in culture from the city, putting the ideas out there to be mocked by upcoming or lurking seasoned artist to develop from other markets. Every artist mentioned has a different level of success, impact, trade, and skill that contributed to the identity of who Chicago is in the urban culture world. A legend is someone who creates or develops a traditional story, who taps into their genius, and sculps a path for others to follow or to observe only to be influenced by their impact. No matter how well known the legend is globally, it can be very well known in pockets or wide areas to be proclaimed a legend.

Watch FBG Duck Declare Chicago Legends.

Subscribe to FBG Duck’s channel for more content.

This brings attention to the social issues that we need to solve in Chicago, and beyond, that deal ultimately with poverty, civic engagement, health, and the brotherhood of humanity. His piece of art pushes towards conversations that need to be had to better our community and restore unity between the gangs or just those who are conflicted and need to heal in order to let go of past conflicts or traumas. In the words of FBG Duck, “just to show yourself a better you”, is worth the participation in helping leaders like him carry messages like this far and wide in the diaspora to help appreciate the progress made in the culture.

I’d like to send love and light to all of the families of our lost and slain ones, even those we lost to non violent tragic situations because we are all still suffering from a bigger issue. Our health, wealth, and our mind state suffers or take constant hits (Urban Dark Hue Beings) because we are in a constant state of oppression while walking dead. We must prescribe a remedy to our ignorance, discipline ourselves, and love one another because the world is depending on it. We are depending on it. You existence is dependent on it.

We don’t die we multiply, so rest peacefully Juice Wrld , Jojo, Pappy, Zack TV, Lil Marc, Dooski, Nuski, Fredo Santana, LA Capone, Lil Mister, and Smylez . We love and wish you all where still among us but we will continue to push y(our) energy, that will never be destroyed, into the world with love.