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Jhené Aiko Releases “Calm & Patient” Single

Jhené Aiko is ushering in a new era with the lush, powerful new single “Calm & patient.” The track is her first new solo song since 2021’s “Wrap Me Up.”

Over beds of synthesizers and minimal percussion, Aiko waxes poetically on the joys of life. She sings, “I’m satisfied with life/ I do not just get by, I thrive/ What a miracle to be up and alive/ Sending love to those who are stuck in the fight.” Listen to the uplifting new anthem below.

Jhené Aiko trended heavily in 2022, after announcing her second pregnancy. She had this child with Big Sean, as she’s been dating him since 2016. As a result, Aiko and Sean announced that this is a son, and went on to be born in November. They also unveiled that his name is Noah.

Aiko has been quiet, last emerging to celebrate the 10th anniversary of her debut mixtape Sailing Soul(s) by releasing the project on streaming services for the first time ever.

“This mixtape was a pivotal moment for me,” Aiko wrote on Twitter. She explained the story of Sailing Soul(s), saying: “When Was 12 I was signed to a label, singing songs I have no real connection to. Besides that, I had no real stories of my own to tell at 12. Then I took a break to focus on school. In my teens, I was signing demo records and taking meetings.

I met with one record exec who told me I needed to do a better job at ‘selling’ myself when I came into meetings. Dressing like myself, singing like myself, talking like myself… wasn’t enough. I thought, why do I have to sell myself? Why do I have to try to convince you of my worth? Of who I am?”

The cover art for Sailing Soul(s) features Aiko standing in the ocean holding onto chains that are wrapped around her wrists and waist. “I wanted the cover to express me breaking free from that narrative of having to “sell” myself. I wanted the broken chains to symbolize that freedom of feeling unanchored… free to be me, going with the flow… going with the wind like a sail boat… freeing my soul… “sailing” my soul instead of “selling” my soul.”

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Headlights is The Worlds FIRST Interactive Hip-Hop Network

HEADLIGHTS is a new platform that allows artists to compete against one another in a LIVE ACTION broadcast. This is NOT SOCIAL MEDIA. This is the new wave for music discovery. Headlights is the worlds FIRST interactive hip-hop network.

Headlights is the worlds FIRST interactive hiphop network. Every two weeks we run a 3-day LIVE ACTION broadcast on our app where we feature the hottest artists from around the country, and let YOU the fan decide who wins.

Winning artists get paid cash 💵, get connected with A&R from top labels, elite influencer platforms, and gain entry into exclusive tour and performance events.

This is NOT SOCIAL MEDIA. This is the new wave for music discovery.

Headlights

Our mission is to provide a platform where artists can showcase their talent. We’re not interested in seeing you dance, sing or rap; we want to see what makes you unique.

We believe that anyone can be an artist and anyone can discover new music. Our goal is to make the world a better place through music.

Our app allows users to upload their own content and vote on other user-generated content. This gives people the opportunity to provide their opinions and engage with their favorite artists.

Headlights’ mission is to help aspiring artists reach their goals by providing them with a platform where they can share their music and receive feedback from their peers in an entertaining way.

Let’s get it 💪
**
#rap #hiphop #chicago #detroit #miami #atlanta #memohis #toronto #oakland

https://headlightshiphop.com/

#GetSOM via @2offishall and check out more of the lifestyle and culture of Hip-Hop by clicking here.

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Grandmaster Flash Releases New Vignette Series

Grandmaster Flash
Photo Cred: Official Website of DJ Grandmaster Flash

THE GRANDMASTER IS BACK

Grandmaster Flash, the first DJ to ever turn turntables into a musical instrument, details his invention of a new tool that allowed records to move freely. Called a “wafer” at the time, his invention has become a world-renowned vital instrument for today’s DJ know as the slipmat! This first episode in a 10 part series features the forefather of Hip-Hop unzipping the reserved origins of the culture.

Grandmaster Flash

TUNE IN WITH FLASH

Viewers can also catch GMF tonight and each and every Thursday night on his QMT radio show from 8pm-9pm EST via Twitch.

#GetSOM via @essince & check out more Hip-Hop and Entertainment news by clicking here.

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SWAG 100 FM-Hip-Hop Radio For Indie Artist and DJ’s

What is SWAG 100 FM?

SWAG 100 FM is Philadelphia’s first non-stop Hip-Hop station for the indie artist. Dedicated to independent artists and DJs, it follows the footsteps of NYC based radio station HOT 97. Known to be the first hip-hop music-only station in the whole world. Starting off as an experimental station, HOT 97 swiftly developed into a pioneer in radio history. It is now the favorite station for trendsetters and influencers in the NY hip-hop scene.

SWAG 100 has the radio pioneers blueprint, implementing and carving it’s own stamp in the radio business. Having countries like Canada – Russian Federation and United Kingdom as their top listeners outside of the United States. It has become a staple in the city of Philadelphia and Tri-State area for independent artist and local businesses.

SWAG 100 FM - Hip-Hop Radio For Indie Artist and Djs
SWAG 100 FM Top 3 Listening Countries

Who Runs SWAG 100 FM?

The owner of SWAG 100 FM is Lee McIntosh III (SWAG 100). He’s a member of the worldwide Fleet DJs organization. With a network like the Fleet Radio Network ,their reach is over 1 million listeners worldwide.

Instead of only playing typical BillBoard hits and radio programed songs, SWAG 100 pushes independent music both nationally and aboard. This separates them from any other station in the business.

The Philly based station focuses on overlooked genres. Along with Hip-Hop they feature Drill, Grime, Afrobeats, Reggae, Reggaeton, R&B, Trap and Soul.

Having a wide variety of played genres, SWAG 100 decided to take on Disc Jockeys who specialized in these specific areas of music. SWAG has scouted DJs throughout the Untied States. This allows him to produce a well balanced radio station schedule.

The Personalities of SWAG 100 FM Radio

DJ PoohGeez “Philly Fleet DJs” Owner of “Tunnel Bangers Podcast” is a Philadelphia legendary DJ who focuses on old-school Hip-Hop and R&B mixes.

DJ L.E.S. Rico is a Florida Fleet DJs recruiter for the Latin division of Fleet. He is one of the most highly respected DJs in the East Coast. He airs on 19 radio station throughout the United States, focusing on Reggaeton, Reggae and Hip-Hop genres.

Dj NoPhrillz aka PHAMOUS PHRiLLZ mixtape – tour and radio DJ who’s the creator of (PSP) Philly Support Philly he’s a manager of “Philly Fleet DJs” Owner of “Official Street Radio” and “Xfinity Marketing”. PHAMOUS PHRiLLZ is a Philadelphia icon and staple to the hip-hop community of his city. NoPhrillz main focus is breaking independent artist alongside his Industry Hip-Hop radio mixes.

The Squad Runs Deep

DJ Breezer254 “Florida Fleet DJs” Radio DJ for K102 and SWAG 100 FM. He focuses on Tropical music like Reggae, Afrobeats, Amapiano, Soca, Dancehall, and Reggaeton. Giving Africans in the diaspora a reliable DJ that they can reach out to and count on to represent the African culture.

YoungChamp is a Massachusetts Fleet DJ and a Main DJ for 107.3 FM. He is also a featured DJ on Shade45‘s Drunk and Mix Show. He focuses on breaking the newest mainstream hip-hop industry hits.

T-Quest “Florida Fleet DJs” Owner of “Gotta Love Me Radio – GLM Designs”. She has a Podcast show that airs on SWAG 100 FM and around the U.S. on other stations titled The T-Quest Show with DJ ILL NINO. She specializes in givng artists, businesses and brands the exposure they need to further themselves.

DJ SWAG 100 ” Philly Fleet DJs” Owner of “SWAG 100 LLC – SWAG 100 Podcast and SWAG 100 FM”. DJ SWAG 100 is a mixtape – tour and radio DJ who’s committed and focused on breaking independent artist on the U.S. Billboard charts. He also airs the prized SWAG 100 Podcast segment known as “Goat Vibez” on SWAG 100 FM. He conducts high level interviews with Celebrities, Athletes, Industry Artist and Professionals who cater to the music business.

IN CLOSING

swag 100

SWAG 100 “Goat Vibez Interviews” is a heavily noted platform in the podcast world. Available on the top 18 major podcast distribution platforms. Independently established on iHeart Radio Apple PodcastSpotify PodcastTuneIn + AlexaPodcast Index Amazon MusicGoogle PodcastPodchaserPodcast AddictPocket CastsListen NotesPlayer FM – Deezer – Overcast – Castro – Castbox – Podfriend and Goodpods.

SWAG 100 radio spins are tracked through digitalradiotracker.com. This system reports to the BillBoard and allows artist & record labels access to view records for data and analysis.

SWAG 100 FM is Re-Branding HipHop Culture for independent music and over looked genres that the world loves. Visit swag100fm.org where you can listen to non-stop music 24/7. Watch or listen to podcast segments, shop for merch and more!

SWAG 100 FM - Hip-Hop Radio For Indie Artist and Djs

SWAG 100 FM - Hip-Hop Radio For Indie Artist and Djs
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Gunna Released After Pleading Guilty to RICO Charge

Gunna is a free man. He was released from jail after pleading guilty to racketeering and conspiracy charges. In a sweeping gang indictment, rapper Young Thug and several other alleged members of the Young Slime Life (YSL) criminal street gang.

The Atlanta rapper entered a negotiated plea. Also known as an Alford plea, it’s when a defendant doesn’t admit they committed the crime, but acknowledges that it’s in their best interest to plead guilty. The charge Gunna faced was one count of conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corruption Act (RICO).

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Gunna was sentenced to five years with one year served in prison. Upon the guilty plea, the one-year was commuted to time served. The four years remaining on his sentence were suspended. He will be subject to special conditions, including 500 hours of community service.

Gunna personally released a statement, saying:

“While I have agreed to always be truthful, Gunna wants to make it perfectly clear that he has NOT made any statements. I have NOT been interviewed. He hasn’t cooperated. He hasn’t agreed to testify or be a witness for or against any party in the case. I have absolutely NO intention of being involved in the trial process in any way.”

Gunna released after pleading guilty to RICO charge

WHAT EVERYONE IS SAYING

Artist and fans took to social media, expressing their ideas and thoughts on Gunna choice to take a plea deal. Some people are saying he has incriminated Young Thug and the YSL camp. He is now being titled a snitch amongst the Hip-Hop community.

Gunna released after pleading guilty to RICO charge
Young Thug – Gunna

Gunna’s lawyers made statements on social media. Regarding his decision they state that Gunna is not snitching or incriminating his label executives or label mates. Let us know what you think in the comments.

SWAG 100

#GetSOM via @swag100 and check out more of the lifestyle and culture of Hip-Hop here.

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Hip-Hop Legend Coolio Dies

Coolio
Coolio
Coolio, Night of the Proms, Ahoy, Rotterdam, Netherlands, 16th November 2000. (Photo by Rob Verhorst/Redferns)

Confirming multiple news reports, rapper Coolio has died. TMZ reports that Coolio’s manager stated that he went to the bathroom at his friend’s house, but when he didn’t come out after a while. The friend kept calling for him, and eventually went in and found him laying on the floor.

When EMT’s were called they pronounced Coolio dead on the scene. Coolio’s talent manager told TMZ, “We are saddened by the loss of our dear friend and client, Coolio, who passed away Wednesday afternoon. He touched the world with the gift of his talent and will be missed profoundly. Please have Coolio’s loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.”

Coolio

COOLIO TAKES US ON A RIDE

Born Artis Leon Ivey, Jr., Coolio was the epitome of West Coast Hip-Hop. It was in 1987 when he would ask the world “Whatcha Gonna Do?” with his first single of the same name. The artist and songwriter broke into the industry when he signed to Tommy Boy Records in 1994.

His first album It Takes a Thief received praise as view of gangsta rap that was more lighthearted and fun. It would also produce the hit single “Fantastic Voyage” that would reach #3 on the Billboard Hot 100. It would set Coolio on the path of being a household name in Hip-Hop.

A GANGSTA’S PARADISE

In 1995 Coolio would team up with R&B singer LV to release “Gangsta’s Paradise” which was featured on the Dangerous Minds movie soundtrack. This would his biggest hit to date, securing Grammys for Record of the Year and Best Rap Solo Performance in 1996. The song was also a nominee at the MTV Movie Awards for Best Musical Moment.

Straight Official Magazine extends our condolences to his family and friends. As a celebration of Hip-Hop, lifestyle and culture, check out my personal favorite track from Coolio down below. Rest in peace, king.

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia and check out more entertainment news here.
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PNB Rock Shot At A Roscoe’s Chicken & Waffles

Rapper PnB Rock was shot at a Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles restaurant in Los Angeles while dining with his girlfriend on Monday (Sep. 12.)

Law enforcement got a call to the Inglewood location of the restaurant at 1:23 pm for a shooting victim, per TMZ. The outlet obtained video footage of the incident that showed the “Fendi” rapper “fighting for his life.” Restaurant staff was reportedly seen panicking as the rapper lay on the floor. In the video, PnB Rock is still seen moving. His current condition is unknown. Prior to the shooting, the Philly native’s girlfriend Steph posted a photo of their meal on her social media. The shooter is still unknown, but witnesses say that they were trying to rob someone in the restaurant. TMZ also noted that PnB posted a video of himself wearing multiple chains prior.

DJ Akademiks took to Twitter to share a statement on the incident after interviewing the rapper a week ago. “Wow.. this PNB Rock situation crazy.. i just did a interview with him a week ago where he detailed how someone tried to rob him in LA recently while he was out with his girlfriend and daughter. Now.. this.. smh. Pray for PNB Rock,” he wrote.

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[NEWS] Pat Stay, Famous Battle Rapper Dies

Pat Stay
Pat Stay

PAT STAY, Canadian battle rapper has died. CNBC News reports that Stay was the victim of a fatal stabbing in downtown Halifax early Sunday. Halifax Regional Police have not identified Stay as the victim, but Stay’s brother, Peter Stay, confirmed the news to CBC.

The Nova Scotian MC was revered for his boasts, witty insults and lyrics. The acclaimed artist had won several rap battles over the course of his career. His most memorable took place in 2015 which was hosted by Drake and where he would secure his fourth victory in a North American competition.

Pat Stay
Photo Cred (IMDB.com)

Pat gained an immense following on social media recently. Just two days ago, Stay dropped a new track that has already amassed more than 50,000 views on YouTube. The video also includes the OVO God giving praise to Stay saying “Pat Stay’s definitely one of, if not, the best.”

Straight Official Magazine offers our prayers and condolences to his family, peers and fans. Check out one of our favorite videos down below of Pat Stay challenging The Game to a rap battle.

Pat Stay
#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia & check out more of the lifestyle and culture of Hip-Hop right here.
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The 2023 Southern Entertainment Awards

The Southern Entertainment Awards

The Southern Entertainment Awards has, is and will always be a staple in Southern culture, music and entertainment. From it’s humble beginnings the conference has grown into an annual celebration of the south’s artists and DJs. Based in Nashville, Tennessee, the annual awards show has grown substantially from its remarkable beginnings at Gibson’s Showcase in 2004.

Since its conception, the event was held Nashville, Tunica and Memphis. Over the years, there’s a consistent increase in attendance numbers, expansions of categories and nominations and media coverage. The SEA’s built a strong recognition of reputable and successful independent and mainstream professionals.

With names like Yo Gotti, Nicki Minaj, B.o.B., Conya Doss, Algebra Blessett, Rudy Currence and Big K.R.I.T. to emerge from the SEA’s, it’s clear their impact is something to behold.

SEA MISSION STATEMENT

The Southern Entertainment Awards strives to be a platform that showcases independent talent. Offering industry support and bridging the many gaps between music, arts and brands.  Through tailored efforts, initiatives and consistent outreach, the SEAs challenges themselves to provide a solid foundation for indie artist.

Entering its 20th year, the SEAs strive to be a well-known and respected venue and channel. It gives independent artists worldwide a platform. Far evolved from its desire to be an outlet used to acknowledge southern DJs, the SEAs were once viewed as a ‘regional event’. Now they are an esteemed as a recognizable brand throughout the world.

The Southern Entertainment Awards

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION

Going into it’s 20th year, The Southern Entertainment Awards will take place on May 28th, 2023. The event will be at the City Winery in Nashville. Voting for the event officially opened today. Straight Official Magazine has received a nomination at the event! The publication is up for Magazine/Publication of the Year.

In celebrating Hip-Hop, lifestyle and culture, we have been diligent in our quest to break the next new artist. Backed by The Worldwide Fleet DJs we are the home publication for the DJ coalition. Straight Official can’t WAIT to be apart of this spectacular event!

The 20th Annual Southern Entertainment Awards

Cast your vote for the 20th annual Southern Entertainment Awards here.

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia and check out more of the lifestyle and culture of Hip-Hop right here.

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Bottega Boyz | The Elite Liquor Ambassadors

BOTTEGA BOYZ ARE THE NEW LIQUOR ELITE

Liquor has become one of the most valuable marketing tools for artists. Some of the highest earning musicians in the industry makes majority of their money from liquor. A new brand has emerged and is determined to get their piece of the industry. That brand is Bottega Liquid Metals.

Bottega Boyz
BOTTEGA LIQUID METALS

WHO ARE THE Bottega Boyz?

The Bottega Boyz have been making their mark all around the country and building the brand awareness. If you are attending a high profile event more than likely it was sponsored by them. We’re talking concerts, private parties, rap battles, tours and clubs. The Bottega Boyz most likely have their hands involved.

Half The Hustler (CEO of Bottega Boyz) sat down with SWAG 100 for an exclusive interview. SWAG 100 is a celebrity podcaster/journalist that is personally sponsored by Half and also the newest member of the ambassador team.

Bottega Boyz CEO
CEO HALF THE HUSTLER aka BOTTEGA BOYZ HALF

Half The Hustler/Straight Official/Goat Vibez Questionnaire

SWAG 100: Tell us about yourself.

HALF THE HUSTLER: I’m Corey Michale, CEO of the BOTTEGA BOYZ. The streets know me as Half The Hustler. I’m a mover and shaker in the entertainment world. A brand ambassador for Bottega Liquid Metals. You could catch me in videos with French Montana, Benny The Butcher, Dave East and Fivio Foriegn to name a few.

Tell us more about the Bottega Boyz and the Bottega Babes.

Bottega Boyz and Bottega Babes is a company that I started to bring awareness to the brand. Sort of like what the Cîroc Boys do for Cîroc. We go out and turn the clubs up. Turn the VIP up, we get the bottles popping and create a buzz to where people start asking questions about the bottles. In return, people ask how can they acquire the bottles or become apart of the team. We are group of club promoters, DJs, photographers, models etc… A puzzle that I put together.

Why did you choose to work with Bottega Liquid Metals?

Because they reached out to me. They believed in me and what I had going on. It didn’t cost me any money. I always tell people if someone tells you they believe in you’ll know by what they’re willing to invest into you from the start. They believe in me invested in to me, told me what I’m worth and showed me what I’m worth. I’m rocking out with them!

GET TO KNOW THE NAME

How did you first hear about Bottega?

One of their reps reached out to me on Instagram and asked me how would I like to work with the brand.

Who were some of the first influencers to embrace you and your product?

Some of the first were Larry Tan, Gillie Da Kid, Eness, Black Ink Crew and Benny The Butcher. They showed love from day one and to this day. French Montana shows me love in all of his videos with the brand. Philadelphia was instrumental, Mikey – O a promoter started letting us come in and do some stuff. A big model from Philly name Desani Dawls show us love from the jump. It has been a long 6 years.

How were you able to put together a team of brand ambassadors from all over?

I’m very vocal and easy to talk to. I began to hold a interview in my head. Like, is this person fit for this brand. I look for artist and models. I look for DJs and photographers. I’m doing events. We have artist & celebs we’ve pushed. Like yourself SWAG. You have a podcast and the product is always present in the public eye when the viewers tune in. Every thing is conducted in-house. We’re able to circulate money within the our unit.

THE NEXT LEVEL FOR BOTTEGA

What’s the overall goal for the Bottega Boyz & Babes brands?

My endgame is to own my own liquor company. My owning branding company. To get get other brands to reach out to me for their needs. I’ve had several companies contact me. They weren’t willing to pay me my worth. I’m professional at staying grounded.

Who are some celebrities that have associated with the product?

From French Montana, Dave East, Black Ink Crew… The list can go on and on. Plenty of people have tasted & loved the product. We were able to get the product in video placements, most recently had the product placed in P Valley. It’s no ceiling to this we already blew the roof of this. Just to add some more Brett Michaels Jim Jones and a bunch of Love and Hip-Hop crew members, salute to you SWAG 100 for getting Mama Jones and the whole Jones clan involved. Shout to SWAG 100, the podcast we see y’all, you know he’s an official Bottega Boy.

Do you have a favorite bottle of Bottega? Which one and why?

That would be Bottega Rose’. I like the tartness of it. When it’s ice cold, served with cut-up strawberries. It releases nodes you need to taste. People drink to get drunk. I drink to taste and actually critique what it is I’m drinking. For me is the Bottega Rose’ Gold.

IN CLOSING

Did anything or anyone inspire you to get in this business?

Nothing really inspired me. A company reached out to me. A hustler in mind, a company offering me 100 cases of each flavor. I was able to sale the bottles and move on. It didn’t workout like that. It became something I loved doing. Being in the clubs popping bottles, to be able to flood a VIP section. I became inspired by the attention. Example my Instagram went from 700 -21k.

Shout to Swag 100 & Straight Official Magazine for having me and big ups to the whole team everyone world wide hustling and grinding providing for their families. This is a lifestyle.

#GetSOM via @swag100 & check out more of his content right here.

SWAG 100
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