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#SaturdaySpotlight Featuring Trajik | @big_trajik

on May 25, 2024 Artist Music TenthLetterMedia add comment

MEET TRAJIK

TRAJIK is an Indianapolis artist who’s a household name in the Hip-Hop landscape. The Traptown MC has a career that spans over a decade and includes milestones that most artists dream about. Always standing on business, Trajik delivers with gritty, impactful lyrics that highlight his well-documented rise to fame.

From gracing the cover of The Indianapolis Star as the face of Hip-Hop to appearing in hit FOX TV shows like Empire & Proven Innocent, Big Trajik has what it takes to break the glass ceiling.

TRAJIK-TO KILL A GOAT

Trajik’s latest release To Kill A Goat is ten tracks of his raw and uncut delivery. He links up with Naptown’s own Skypp for the single “My Truth” and Parris Ladame on “Me and My Bitch” that further cement the notion of talent in Indy.

The first single on the album “Goated” is where Trajik turns his thoughts into poetry. He spits, “cuz I was devoted/wise words been quoted/I took my pain an turned it into poetry/ready for the world ain’t no hoe in me/they act nonchalant but they notice me”

Check out the official video for “Goated” down below. To Kill A Goat is available now on all music streaming platforms.

EDITOR’S TAKE

Trajik is not only a veteran in the game, but also a dope friend. We’re both native to the east side of Nap and I have covered his career since the beginning of mine. I remember our first sit-down interview years ago while writing for Scoop The Entertainment Source magazine. He would then go on to grace our pages years later.

I reflect back to what I asked him in that interview about his future. No joke, he spoke on doing more than just rap. He had aspirations to become an actor, brand ambassador, etc… and it’s dope to see all of that come full circle!

Stay locked in with Trajik via social media on Instagram @big_trajik and give a listed to “To Kill A Goat” TODAY!!

**#GetSOM via** @TenthLetterMedia & click here for more emerging artists.

The 13th Annual Fleet DJs Music Conference

on May 24, 2024 Events Music TenthLetterMedia add comment

The Fleet DJs Music Conference is an award-winning event that for over a decade is the official kick-off to summer. A multi-day festival of music and entertainment, the conference is an independent artists’ dream as they will be able to network and build relationships with the most important aspect to the genre of Hip-Hop- the DJ’s.

This year’s event marks the 13th year of the conference. As an official sponsor of the conference, we can tell you from previous experience that it’s an event that you DON’T want to miss! Come party with DJs, producers, record execs, models and tastemakers in addition to Fleet DJs worldwide!

Klassik CEO invites you to the Fleet DJs Music Conference

WHO ARE THE FLEET DJS?

A coalition of over 600 members and counting, Fleet is a collective of DJs, industry tastemakers, producers, models, bloggers and artists. This dynamic group is the largest DJ coalition in the world producing feature mixtapes for both national and independent artists. Fleet is documented for not only changing the industry, but the members that make up this amazing team.

The Fleet DJs Music Conference provides the opportunity for artists and business owners to experience networking experiences unlike any other. An artist soundstage, private listening sessions and a media panel day are just some of the events that will make Orlando seem like a movie!

THIS YEAR’S ITINERARY

The itinerary for this year’s conference released this week and it will be UP! The event will last 4 days from July 18th to July 22th. The events include artists listening parties, business and music networking panels and community based events. In addition, Fleet will have an artist soundstage that gives artists the opp to prove their skills.

WHO’S GONNA BE THERE?

The guestlist continues to grow for the event! You never know who might pop out for the conference this year! But don’t take our words for it. You should be there for an unforgettable experience. Listen to some of our friends tell you all about it down below!

The Fleet DJs Music Conference is open to any and everyone. To be a part of the hottest event of the summer, log on to www.fleetdjs.com to register. Tickets are going fast so get yours today!

**#GetSOM via** @TenthLetterMedia & click here to celebrate Hip-Hop, lifestyle and culture.

#SaturdaySpotlight featuring Dead Silence | @deadsilence9

on May 11, 2024 Artist Saturday Spotlight TenthLetterMedia add comment

MEET DEAD SILENCE

DEAD SILENCE is an artist who while his moniker interprets his approach as quiet is the polar opposite. The Indianapolis MC has been making his rounds as of late. From hosting the How You What? Sophomore Cypher last month to appearances on CBS News affiliate morning shows, Silence is quiet as kept a staple in the Indy Hip-Hop community.

Dead Silence has both the talent, mind and heart to thrive as an artist. With his music featured on segments for both ESPN and The NBA on TNT, he has unique star quality. On the eve of his new project Thru The Fire being released, he invited us for a unique experience. Silence held a TTF listening session & video shoot for the smooth single “Vanilla Bean.”

Upon first listen, TTF is a no-skip project. It serves as both a story being told and background music for any facet of life. He then would tell us that the project was engineered to play as such, which is mind-blowing!

DEAD SILENCE-THRU THE FIRE

Thru The Fire is a 9 track EP that is designed to please. Dead Silence links with Naptown’s own Foxd’legnd on “Been Thru Hell” and provides the most relatable feeling to anyone listening. With production from DJ D Nyce & Zero The Composer, TTF is a vibe that needs to be experienced.

EDITOR’S PICK

Dead Silence is yet another deserving artist from Indianapolis who along with his counterparts continue to chip at the glass ceiling. Dubbed as the Morgan Freeman of Hip-Hop by his fans, his smooth delivery and cadence helps cater to the notion of music making a comeback this year.

My pick from TTF is the single “Vanilla Bean” which is making noise both here and across the pond. The single has made streaming platforms in Germany and helped expedite Silence to over 250,000 streams on Spotify.

But don’t take my word for it. Check out the lyric video for “Vanilla Bean” down below and stay tuned for the official music video featuring a cameo or two from yours truly!

Thru The Fire available NOW on all music streaming platforms!

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia & click here to celebrate Hip-Hop, lifestyle & culture!

Dame Dash Emerges With New Artist Kittii Red

on April 6, 2024 Entertainment News TenthLetterMedia add comment

Dame Dash Presents Kittii Red

Dame Dash, co-founder of Rocafella Records is making headlines after introducing his newly signed artist Kittii Red. Dash recently sat down in an interview with Red and talked about a variety of topics. The Indianapolis femcee was poised as Dame moderated an in-depth look into his new acquisition.

In an episode of “Relate To Great”, Dame and Kittii spoke on her journey in music. The conversation included Dame’s personal relationship with Congressman Andre Carson as well as Kittii’s take on authenticity in art and talent discovery. Check out their one on one down below.

Courtesy of America Nu Network

Red is a Naptown veteran that has established herself as a talented artist. To celebrate the new venture and her soul day, Kittii released a track called “Birthday Song” that is trending and giving more recognition to the Circle City. It will be the first song released under Dame Dash’s BluRoc Records label.

NEW MUSIC FROM KITTII RED

Kittii Red released her first single under the BluRoc Records umbrella this week. Produced by Micha D’vinci, “Birthday Song” is an appropriate debut song for her.

Kitti Red-Birthday Song

EDITOR’S TAKE

Another win for Naptown!

Dame signing Kittii just confirms what I have known for over a decade. The talent in the nineteenth state was always here, just not effectively promoted and cultured. But those days are fading fast. With social media platforms, DJ coalitions and publications aiding the fight the industry has no choice but to come here.

Kittii Red and numerous artists like her are here to continue to chip away at that glass ceiling. Dash choosing to implement a platform for artists in Indianapolis also proves his ear for music. If he so happens to be reading this, know that there is a whole fleet of DJs here as well that need to connect with you. Let’s work!

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia & click here to celebrate Hip-Hop, lifestyle & culture.

#SaturdaySpotlight featuring T.G.I. Free | @iamtgifree

on March 23, 2024 Artist Music Music Videos TenthLetterMedia add comment

MEET T.G.I.FREE

T.G.I.Free is quickly becoming a force to be recognized in Hip-Hop. The Naptown MC from The Far made his presence felt at Chreece Nap City All-Star last month performing alongside Jet Santiago and Skypp. A few weeks later, the city was scrutinized for a cypher that made it’s rounds.

Free alongside 4 other far eastside artists were the city’s “Redeem Team” as the How You What? Sophomore Cypher was the take that did not miss! T.G.I. took the anchor of that track meet and with powerful, gritty punchlines he closed it out like Michael Jordan in Game 6.

CURRENT MUSIC

“Set You Free” is a 7 track production that highlights Free’s raw delivery and lyricism. From “10th Street” featuring Skypp to “Take My Crown” Free rode every track with purpose and precision over soulful samples from Isiah Darty (Zero) & Trashbaggbeatz. T.G.I. Free has the follow up to “Set You Free titled “Trust In Free” on the way later this year.

With the city of Indianapolis becoming the next city to produce the next big artist, Free has his cap in the circle and it ain’t safe! Check out T.G.I. Free alongside Jet Santiago in “Danger Zone” down below.

STAY CONNECTED WITH T.G.I. FREE

Stay tuned for “Trust In Free” from T.G.I. Free coming soon. Stream music on Apple Music & Spotify. Follow on social media:

Instagram-@iamtgifree

X-@iamtgifree

Youtube-@iamtgifree

TikTok-@iamtgifree

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia & click here to discover more emerging artists.

Skypp Releases “Sorry 4 My Trauma Too”

on March 17, 2024 Artist Music TenthLetterMedia add comment

SKYPP is riding a few waves going into this weekend. The Indianapolis MC is a year removed from releasing “Sorry For My Trauma” which debuted at #6 in the world. He also alongside 4 other Naptown artists released the “How You What? Sophomore Cypher 8 days ago. At nearly 20k in views and rising, this push is coming at an ideal time.

SORRY 4 MY TRAUMA TOO | SKYPP

On Friday, Skypp released “Sorry 4 My Trauma Too” to the masses. The project is anticipated to be a “sophomore effort” to the SMFT series. With Skypp there’s never been a need to worry about a jinx of any kind. He’s a multi-time iTunes charting artist with placements that keep him around the names of Drake & 21 Savage on most occasions.

His music is mixture of boom bap, trap prophecies and braggadocious flows over modern production. So far left from the modern day standard in Hip-Hop, Skypp is the breath of fresh air that the game needs more so than often. His messages that range from self awareness and empowerment to introspection are a far cry from most rappers today.

SKYPP during the "How You What? Sophomore Cypher (Photo Cred: Kaymakay Designs) — SKYPP during the “How You What? Sophomore Cypher (Photo Cred: Kaymakay Designs)

Skypp-Sorry 4 My Trauma Too

STAY CONNECTED

Skypp (Photo Cred: Kaymakay Designs) — (Photo Cred: Kaymakay Designs)

Follow Skypp on social media on Instagram, YouTube & Spotify

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia & click here to discover more emerging artists.

The 21st Annual Southern Entertainment Awards

on March 15, 2024 Events Music TenthLetterMedia add comment

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 Southern 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 21st 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.

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATON

Going into it’s 21st year, The Southern Entertainment Awards will take place from Friday, May 17th through Sunday, May 19th. The event will be at the City Winery in Atlanta, GA. For the second year in a row, 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!

While voting for the event has come to an end, we appreciate each and every one of you who gave us your vote. If you’re going to be in Atlanta in May, you should tap in and #GetSOM of the 21st annual SEA Awards!

To learn more about tickets and events at this years SEA Awards, click here.

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia & click here to celebrate Hip-Hop, lifestyle & culture!

SOMag Presents The Fleet Files With Fleet DJs: DJ Starline | @djstarline.edm

on March 14, 2024 Interviews TenthLetterMedia The Fleet Files add comment

For over two decades, the fleet dj’s has grown from a small crew to a proficient coalition with over 500 members and counting. since 2001, THE WORLDWIDE FLEET DJ’s has changed the lives of both its members and the entertainment industry they have thrived in.

These are the members. These are Their Stories. THESE ARE “THE FLEET FILES”

Name: DJ STARLINE

FLeet DJ Since: 2007

Location: MILFORD, CONNECTICUT

Region: NORTHEAST REGION/CONNECTICUT Fleet DJ’s

WHO IS DJ STARLINE?

DJ STARLINE is an accomplished member of the Worldwide Fleet DJ’s. Since joining the coalition in 2007, she’s been acknowledged and awarded for her dedication. From her three nominations at the 2022 Fleet DJs Awards to securing the 2023 Fleet DJ Raheem MVP Award, Starline has put in the work!

I asked her when was the moment that convinced her that she wanted to be a DJ. “When I saw videos of DJ AM (R.I.P.) and A-Trak putting on a show like no other, it inspired me to do the same. Their superhuman talents, charisma and energy convinced me (an introvert at the time) that I as a DJ can grow personally and professionally while developing new skillsets and talents.”

Affectionally known as Nina, Starline was vested in becoming a DJ four years prior to joining Fleet. Seeking to know the art of DJ’ing she attended and graduated from the Scratch DJ Academy in 2006. When I asked her what drove her to join Fleet, she spoke on a conversation while working with another Fleet DJ.

“I was working on a mixtape with a Vegas DJ, King Nade. He was telling me about this new DJ crew he joined and he was going on about how awesome it was to be part of a team like this. He asked me to join, specifically saying that there were no females on the team. We got on AIM. Messenger if you could remember that (laughs). Nade, Klassik the CEO, and his partner chopped it up. Then we had a few phone calls shortly after. Each time I spoke with them I could hear the passion in their voices as they explained their vision for the organization.”

She added, “Their drive to put the DJ in the forefront, especially newer DJs, really resonated with me.”

My mission is to make the world dance while forgetting about the drama. Let’s go!
DJ Starline

GAME-CHANGING DECISION

While originally spinning Hip-Hop, Starline made a choice that would alter the course of her journey. In 2010 she would transition to electronic dance music. “I eventually made the move to electronic dance music (EDM) as the 2010s approached and to put it simple, I never looked back! I don’t regret the decision at all, just when I made that pivotal move it was only a matter of time before the actual EDM boom occurred between 2011-2013.

Currently she is the Assistant Manager of the EDM division of Fleet. In addition, Starline is the lead organizer of the Fleet DJ Raid Trains on Twitch. She remarked on her accomplishments early into her joining Fleet. “I joined the Fleet DJs and continued working while getting many opportunities to do projects with other DJ’s and artists. I provided monthly mix shows to popular stations of the time, such as, Sprint/Nextel Radio, Nokia Radio, Move Radio, Focus on the DJ and WWACN.”

When I decided to DJ the first person I told was my sister. She was so excited she jumped on her laptop and started creating a logo for me. She ended up with a star and an electric line going through it. So we came up with Starline
DJ Starline on how she got her name

OUTSIDE OF THE BOOTH

DJ Starline is more than just a DJ. Outside of making the world dance she works in the medical field in the Orthopedic and Pain Management specialties. She added, “I’m also a web and graphics designer and video editor.” I asked her about some of the takeaways of being a DJ. She spoke on the experience that she’s given her clients.

“Giving memorable moments to happy clients and party goers during their special occasions as well as giving my loyal listeners, on digital platforms, a in-real-life inspired experience right at home or while they’re out n about. This always means the world to me!” She added, “business relationships I’ve developed during my journey as a DJ. I’ve crossed paths with other talented DJs and music industry professionals that have open doors for me in the business world and beyond!”

When she’s not listening to hit songs like Get Lower by Steve Aoki and Lil Jon, Starline finds inspiration by simply being a watcher of the game. “From watching the world’s best DJs, I learn by observing their mixing styles and stage presence. I also gain inspiration from the Fleet DJs that I work with every day!”

IN CONCLUSION

As we came to the end of our interview, I asked Starline if she had any words of wisdom for aspiring DJs. “Anyone trying to make a name in any industry, especially the music industry, must embrace the concept of networking. It’s simple, just put yourself out there and network like crazy! Always be open to meeting new people and creating relationships, more importantly you have to MAINTAIN those relationships, follow-up regularly!”

I gave her the floor to give her roses. “Big shout out to Straight Official Magazine & Radio, TenthLetterMedia, FLEET DJS, THE FLEET EDM DJs, K102 DIGITAL, TASTE/DASH RADIO, CHICAGO 77.3, FLEET EDM RADIO, CTVIBE101, THE FLEET RAID TRAIN DJs, COMMUTER TRAX, URBAN $OUND, DAPLAYLISTER, EVERY ONE I WORK WITH ON A DAILY BASIS, AND OF COURSE THE STRAIGHT OFFICIAL READERS, MY LOYAL LISTENERS, FOLLOWERS AND SUPPORTERS — THERE WOULD BE NOTHING FOR ME TO DO WITHOUT YOUR LOVE AND SUPPORT, I’M TRULY GRATEFUL FOR EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU GUYS!

STAY CONNECTED

Make sure to follow all updates on my official page at starlinedj.com

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia & click here for more editions of The Fleet Files

How You What? Naptown Delivers With The Sophomore Cypher

on March 8, 2024 Music Music Videos TenthLetterMedia add comment

HOW YOU WHAT? SOPHOMORE CYPHER

The city of Indianapolis became a hot topic during last month’s All-Star weekend. Not just for basketball, the Hip-Hop world took notice to the first take of the All-Star Naptown Cypher presented by Asia & Co Productions. The consensus was that it was not a representation of the culture in the Circle City. Surely there would be a follow-up, right?

That effort dropped today as the How You What? Sophomore Cypher was released after a teaser was dropped this week via Instagram. Hosted by Naptown’s own Dead Silence, the cypher consisted of 5 MC’s, all of which are from or reside on the far east side. DJ Strick spun the instrumental for Nas’ “Oochie Wally” and the rest is history!!!

How You What? Sophomore Cypher

Jet Santiago would kick off the first leg with bars that set the tone for the cypher. Going absolutely silly over the track he solves the question about that infamous chicken. “Call me your excellency/evidently I’m a better MC/that chicken crossed the road and ran into me.” Femcee TVT The Rapper took the mic and rode the track while clearly showing that she wasn’t pressed being the only woman in the cypher. She spits “Put me in a box so blind niggas I’ma make ’em see/always the one doing the breakups/call me the referee.”

Leg 3 of the cypher went to PBT Ace. His gritty, lyrical ride included both ties to both love and loyalty over these bitches. The next MC up was Skypp. Stating the obvious he spits “Yeah, took y’all long enough/Y’all know they couldn’t “rap rap” but they songs tough/I’m so NAP like the shit that makes a comb get stuck/what mufuckas ain’t puttin on like us.”

T.G.I. Free would take the anchor of the cypher. I had the opportunity to see Free perform during All-Star Weekend for the first time alongside Jet & Skypp. He closed it out like Michael Jordan in Game 6 with powerful punchlines like “Steven Jackson in the stands/bitch I’m smacking shit/and cut me off they know I got it like I’m Kaepernick.”

As a native of Indianapolis and correspondent of Hip-Hop, THIS is how you do a cypher! But please, don’t take my word for it. Check out the official video for How You What? Sophomore Cypher down below. Let us know in the comments what you think.

Special shouts out and appreciation goes out to everyone involved with this outstanding cypher. Coco Michelle (@coco_michelle_ on IG), DarkkUstupiD | Music Production (@darkkustupid_), Craig Allen (@craigallenfilms), June (@june1oth), Kennedy MaKay Weaver (@kaymakaydesigns), Asia Ellis of Asia&Co Productions (@asiacoproductions) and all the artists involved #HowYouWhat?

#GetSOM via @TenthLetterMedia & click here to celebrate Hip-Hop, lifestyle & culture.

Justina Valentine Wilds Out With Jadakiss On Hot New Single “Mo’ Money”

on March 3, 2024 Artist Music TenthLetterMedia add comment

JUSTINA VALENTINE known world wide for role on the hit improv show Wild N’ Out is making it known she has bars! The singer, television host & actor has the collective ear of Hip-Hop with a new release “Mo Money” that features Hip-Hop icon Jadakiss.

Ever since her early release “Candy Land” featuring Fetty Wap, Justina has been able to hold her own lyrically. While not adhering to the labels that come with female emcees, it allows her to focus her talent and energy on tracks with some of the game’s prominent male counterparts.

Justina Valentine feat. Jadakiss- Mo’ Money

We got to chop it up with Justina on the Fleet DJs Celebrity Corner a few weeks ago. We listened to the song and knew right away that she has bars indeed! This was definitely the right track for Jada to hop on and a dope collaboration.

Valentine has both a style and uniqueness that is a different take from the evolving female presence in Hip-Hop. It’s dope to see music make it’s way back to the front of all this noise out here currently.

Check out the official music video for “Mo’ Money with Justina Valentine feat. Jadakiss down below! Let us know what you think of the track in the comments down there as well!