by Jonathan P-Wright | Oct 4, 2024 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Image credit: Jamie Lamor Thompson / Shutterstock.com
In the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop, few artists have carved a path as remarkable as Tee Grizzley. Hailing from the gritty streets of Detroit, this rapper’s ascent to stardom has been nothing short of extraordinary. His breakout single, “First Day Out,” a poignant anthem for the formerly incarcerated, catapulted him into the limelight nearly a decade ago, solidifying his multi-platinum status.
Since his meteoric rise in 2017, Grizzley has consistently delivered a steady stream of projects, alternating between albums and mixtapes. While his musical offerings have garnered varying levels of commercial success, with his 2018 debut album “Activated” peaking at an impressive No. 10 on the Billboard charts, and his most recent release, “Coney Island,” charting at No. 65, one thing remains constant: Tee Grizzley’s unwavering commitment to using his art as a conduit for personal expression.
Rap as Therapy: Grizzley’s Lyrical Catharsis
Contrary to the notion that rappers are solely driven by financial gain, Tee Grizzley’s motivation stems from a far more profound place. In his own words, “I wasn’t ever doing it for the money, you know what I’m saying? I wasn’t never in it for a check.” For Grizzley, rap serves as a therapeutic outlet, a means to vent and connect with those who can relate to his experiences.
This candid approach to his craft is the driving force behind his forthcoming album, aptly titled “Post Traumatic.” As the name suggests, the project delves into the lessons Grizzley has learned from navigating through life’s most challenging circumstances, offering a raw and unfiltered glimpse into his personal growth.
“Post Traumatic”: A Cathartic Exploration of Trauma and Resilience
Set for release on October 4th, “Post Traumatic” promises to be a powerful testament to Grizzley’s resilience. One of the album’s lead singles, “Blow For Blow,” features a remarkable collaboration with none other than J. Cole, a rapper whom Grizzley considers one of the greats.
The track finds Grizzley holding his own against Cole’s formidable lyrical prowess, trading bars over a Pierre Bourne-crafted beat. While Cole’s verse boasts his signature bravado, interpolating The Notorious B.I.G.’s iconic “Mo Money Mo Problems,” Grizzley remains steadfast in his approach, refusing to alter his verse in an attempt to outdo his esteemed collaborator.
“I ain’t one of them artists that’s going to change my verse,” Grizzley asserts. “I feel how I feel about it, and this is what I really wanted to say. So when Cole sent his shit back and it’s overly crazy, I’m not changing my verses. I don’t look at it like I’m trying to outdo somebody. I’m trying to get thought off and my feelings off in this track. And no matter what nobody else do, this is how I think and how I feel.”
Embracing Vulnerability: Grizzley’s Therapeutic Journey
Throughout the album, Grizzley’s lyrics delve into the profound impact of trauma, a theme that resonates deeply with his personal experiences. On the track “Swear to God,” he candidly acknowledges the need for therapy, rapping, “All this shit I seen, got too much trauma, I need therapy.”
While Grizzley has previously sought professional help for other aspects of his life, such as marriage counseling and couples therapy, he admits to having only attempted therapy for his trauma once. This vulnerability and willingness to confront his past demons head-on is a testament to Grizzley’s growth as an artist and a human being.
Future Collaboration: Tapping into Boundless Creativity
In addition to his collaboration with J. Cole, “Post Traumatic” also features a guest appearance from the inimitable Future on the track “Swear to God.” Grizzley’s experience working with the Atlanta rapper proved to be a revelatory one, as he was struck by Future’s seemingly endless creative reservoir.
“What surprised me is he don’t run out [of bars],” Grizzley marvels. “A lot of people be like, ‘All right, it’s time to go.’ He could go. Nothing else really surprised me, I knew it was going to be a great experience. I look at Future as one of the greats.”
Soulful Production: A Sonic Tapestry of Emotion
Complementing Grizzley’s raw lyricism is the album’s soulful production, which draws heavily from soul samples. Tracks like “Blueprint” and “All I Wanna Do” are prime examples of this sonic direction, a deliberate choice that aligns with Grizzley’s thematic intentions.
“Because I knew what I wanted to talk about,” Grizzley explains. “My goal around this album…I want to give back. Especially in the Midwest where I come from, a lot of people is in need here and a lot of people don’t give back here. So I just wanted to run around and give back, and with those thoughts in mind, that’s what helped me come with those songs. I wanted you to feel it deep. I want a person to listen to that and feel like they need to go give something to somebody.”
Rap as a Calling: Grizzley’s Unwavering Commitment
Despite finding financial success outside of rap through his gaming endeavors, where he has reportedly earned six figures, Grizzley’s passion for music remains undiminished. His motivation transcends monetary gain, as he explains, “I [do] this because I need somewhere to let this stuff out. I need a place to vent. I need a place to just connect to the people who can relate to me.”
This profound connection with his audience is the driving force behind Grizzley’s relentless pursuit of his craft, fueling his desire to continue releasing an infinite number of albums, as he puts it.
J. Cole Collaboration: A Meeting of Kindred Spirits
The collaboration with J. Cole on “Blow For Blow” was a long-awaited opportunity for Grizzley, one that required patience and a shared understanding of the creative process. As Grizzley recounts, “It’s crazy. When you talk about somebody processing how they work, J. Cole is somebody who the process means everything [to him]. Process mean everything, the energy mean everything. The vibe, if it ain’t right, it’s like ‘We can’t do it.’ So it kind of took us a while because we had to find the right thing that was perfect for us to do.”
Once the perfect beat and vibe were established, Grizzley knew he had to bring his A-game, acknowledging Cole’s immense talent. “And once we found it, bro, I just knew it was the one, and I know that Cole is super talented, so I couldn’t half-step when it came to how I performed on the song. So I gave it my all.”
The two artists initially connected over FaceTime while Cole was on tour with Drake, and their first in-person meeting took place in Buffalo, New York. Grizzley’s admiration for Cole’s humility and professionalism is evident, as he remarks, “It’s so easy working with Cole. It’s so crazy. You would take somebody like Cole and he could be so easy to work with, so humble and gracious, and you’ll run into these niggas that ain’t nowhere near his level and you got to chase these motherfuckers around. I don’t understand it.”
Success Redefined: Grizzley’s Unwavering Authenticity
As Grizzley continues to navigate the ever-changing music landscape, his definition of success remains rooted in his ability to create on his own terms. “Success to me look like I want to do it, I don’t have to do it,” he muses. “I am comfortable, I’m cool. I have everything I need. You know what I’m saying? It is more blessings just coming in. I’m setting myself up to just be as secure as possible. So anything that I’m doing is because I want to do it. The energy I’m giving when I do stuff, you going to tell, ‘OK, he wanted to be there.’ Some people have to be there.”
This unwavering authenticity and commitment to his craft have solidified Tee Grizzley’s place as a force to be reckoned with in the hip-hop world. With “Post Traumatic,” he invites listeners on a deeply personal journey, one that promises to resonate with those who have faced their own battles with trauma and adversity.
Conclusion: Grizzley’s Enduring Legacy
As Tee Grizzley continues to bare his soul through his music, his impact extends far beyond the confines of the recording studio. By fearlessly confronting his past and using his art as a means of healing, he has become a beacon of hope for those grappling with their own demons. With “Post Traumatic,” Grizzley solidifies his status as a true artist, one who prioritizes authenticity and vulnerability above all else. His unwavering commitment to his craft and his willingness to share his truth with the world ensure that his legacy will endure, inspiring generations of artists to come.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Feb 2, 2024 | Latest, Music News |
Image credit: Arturo Holmes / Shutterstock.com
Good music doesn’t come cheap, and when it comes to a verse from Meek Mill, that statement takes on a whole new level. The Philly-born rapper recently let slip his price tag for featuring in a song, and the quotations are enough to make anyone’s jaw drop.
Markdown quote:
“Every time I do a verse I charge 250k and up if you got 150k on sight and I like the song we can swap it outtt!!!!” – Meek Mill
The Industry Standard
In an industry where talent is abundant, the stakes are high and the prices even higher. Meek’s asking price aligns with his contemporaries. However, it’s worth noting that Meek’s pricing far outweighs that of rapper J. Cole.
In a surprising revelation last year, J. Cole dispelled rumors of him receiving $2,000 per word for his verses. His approach to music features is rather humble and passion-driven, unlike the industry’s norm.
Markdown quote:
“Yo, bro, it’s just a bar, bro…I don’t even charge n***a for the verse, I’m doing this shit because I’m inspired to do it.” – J.Cole
More Than Just a Verse
Meek further elaborated on his pricing, emphasizing that artists paying for his feature receive more than just a verse. The benefits extend to exposure to Meek’s expansive audience, which includes his 50 million followers with real engagement.
Markdown quote:
“Some of these artists need others’ platforms to get their point across, and I offer them data and fanbase opportunities along with mass marketing” – Meek Mill
Investing in Land
So, what does Meek Mill do with all that hard-earned money? It seems he’s eyeing an expansion of his real estate portfolio. The rapper recently expressed his desire to acquire 15 acres in south New Jersey. However, he’s clear on one thing – no wetlands.
Markdown quote:
“Looking for 15 Acres in south nj no wetlands tho help me out” – Meek Mill
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, while the figures may seem astronomical to some, it’s clear that the music industry operates on a different financial scale. Whether it’s Meek Mill’s $250,000 verses or J. Cole’s passion-driven approach, the price of a verse in the rap world is more than a monetary figure; it’s a reflection of an artist’s value, reach, and influence.
by Fabiola Noel | Sep 20, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Image Credit: Franklin Sheard Jr / Shutterstock.com
Renowned rapper French Montana has stepped forward to extend a helping hand to his native land, Morocco, which was significantly affected by a severe earthquake earlier this month. The musician revealed his plans for philanthropy during the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), demonstrating that his heart is as large as his talent.
The Announcement
As he took to the stage to present the award for Best R&B, Montana seized the opportunity to shed light on the devastating situation in Morocco and announce his contribution. In collaboration with global humanitarian organizations, Global Citizen and CARE, French Montana pledged to set up an emergency fund to aid the victims of the calamity.
“I want to spread some love and light to Morocco. They’ve been hit with a big earthquake,” Montana expressed. “I’m setting up an emergency fund with Global Citizen and I will be donating myself.” Drawing attention to the plight of his homeland, he pledged a generous donation of $100,000 towards the cause.
The Emergency Fund
The emergency fund is an initiative planned to assist the most vulnerable groups, including women, children, youth, and other disadvantaged demographics. The fund will focus on providing immediate relief in the form of food, water, shelter, and medical aid.
In addition to his monetary contribution, French Montana’s announcement serves to raise awareness about the dire situation in Morocco and encourage others to contribute. He urged people to extend their support by making a donation.
The Impact of the Earthquake
The earthquake, measuring 6.9 on the Richter scale, wreaked havoc in Morocco. The disaster claimed the lives of at least 2,901 individuals and left over 5,530 injured. Rescue teams from Britain, Spain, and Qatar collaborated with the Moroccan military in search-and-rescue operations. However, as time passes, the chances of finding more survivors are diminishing, as per NBC News.
French Montana: The Man Behind the Music
Born and raised in Casablanca, Morocco, French Montana immigrated to the South Bronx with his family when he was 13 years old. Despite having to face language barriers, as he only spoke Moroccan Darija Arabic and French at the time, he managed to learn English and carve a successful career in the music industry.
His connection to his homeland remains strong, and this isn’t the first time Montana has used his platform for philanthropy. In 2017, he collaborated with Global Citizen for the first time when he traveled to Uganda to film the music video for “Unforgettable” featuring Swae Lee. Following his visit, he donated $100,000 to the Suubi Health Center and launched the #2BStrong petition with Global Citizen, advocating for universal health coverage within the African Union.
Conclusion
French Montana’s generous gesture is a shining example of the music industry’s potential to effect positive change. His contribution will not only provide immediate relief to those affected but also inspire others to contribute towards the cause. As we continue to follow this story, we hope that Montana’s actions will bring much-needed assistance and hope to the people of Morocco.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Jul 28, 2023 | Latest, Social Justice |
Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash
A significant chapter in the fight for justice and accountability has been written as New York City reaches a historic settlement with hundreds of George Floyd protesters who faced unlawful tactics at the hands of local police during the turbulent events of 2020. The proposed agreement, recently filed in a Manhattan federal court, represents a groundbreaking moment, with the city agreeing to pay over $13 million in the largest class-action settlement ever awarded to a group of protesters.
As reported by CNN, a historic settlement has been reached, representing a monumental outcome in response to a class-action lawsuit brought forth on behalf of an impressive number of approximately 1,380 protesters. These individuals were arrested by the New York City Police Department during a series of 18 fervent demonstrations held across the city during the period of May and June in 2020. The successful resolution of this lawsuit stands as a testament to the power of collective action and the unwavering determination of those seeking justice and accountability for alleged misconduct. With this momentous settlement, those impacted by the events surrounding these protests may find solace and recognition, as the legal process takes significant strides towards addressing the grievances and concerns raised during this tumultuous period in the city’s history. The landmark nature of this settlement not only reaffirms the rights and liberties of peaceful protesters but also underscores the importance of holding authorities accountable for ensuring that those rights are upheld and protected in any civil society. This pivotal case serves as a beacon of hope for others seeking redress and serves as a critical milestone in the ongoing journey towards fostering a more just and equitable society for all. The terms of the agreement will provide eligible individuals with compensation of $9,950 each, pending approval by a judge.
The lawsuit sheds light on a series of troubling allegations against the authorities, accusing them of employing aggressive tactics that violated protesters’ rights. Among the accusations were claims of corralling protesters into confined spaces, using excessive force with batons and fists, indiscriminately deploying pepper spray, and arresting demonstrators without lawful justification or fair warning.
The protests of 2020 were a visceral response to the tragic killing of George Floyd by former police officer Derek Chauvin, an event that sent shockwaves throughout the nation and reignited the Black Lives Matter Movement. Hundreds of people from diverse backgrounds united on the streets of cities and towns across the country, standing in solidarity against police brutality and racial injustice.
In the heart of New York City, a powerful wave of voices rose, demanding an end to systemic racism and the urgent need for police reform. The demonstrations were marked by a spirit of unity and a shared commitment to driving societal change. However, the resolve of the protesters was met with an alarming response from law enforcement, who, according to the class-action lawsuit, employed unlawful tactics that violated the constitutional rights of the demonstrators.
The impact of this settlement transcends monetary compensation; it sends a resounding message about the significance of accountability in a just society. By acknowledging and redressing the harm done to protesters, the city of New York takes a crucial step toward recognizing the importance of protecting citizens’ constitutional rights, even in the face of public dissent.
While the road ahead may be long, this landmark agreement offers hope and encouragement to those who continue to advocate for meaningful police reform and an end to racial injustice. As New York City takes this historic step towards healing and reconciliation, it sets a powerful precedent for other cities and communities grappling with similar challenges. The legacy of the George Floyd protests will endure, as the voices of those who took to the streets continue to echo, demanding a future where equity, justice, and compassion prevail.
by Samantha J Rice | Nov 20, 2021 | Business News, Latest |
The Rising Trend of Mobile Banking
Every day, the smartphone in your pocket becomes more and more essential in our daily lives. It has become an indispensable part of modern technology – not only for connectivity but also for convenience. Ever since banking became mobile through the invention of the smartphone, it’s been clear that smartphones were paving the way for digital monetary transactions.
Because they are already able to handle emails, browsing, messaging, GPS mapping, and listening to music or watching movies anywhere at any time.
The trends in mobile banking
Mobile banking has taken a massive jump since its debut. In 2014 it got even bigger after Apple launched the Apple Pay software that provides retailers with mobile cards and payment options. There are lots of trends in mobile banking today. To start would be the push to mobile apps. Mobile apps are making financial transactions simpler for everyone. Another trend that would be news to you is the rapid growth of mobile wallet adoption. A survey in 2017 showed that 51% of smartphone users have used a digital wallet in the past year, up from just 27% in 2013, when it was dubbed “m-payments.”
Why do people use mobile banking?
Enabling mobile banking may not just help people achieve convenient, quick tasks. The potential for establishing 4-hour banking during weekday evenings to account for current work schedules is also being recognized. With the increasing time that consumers spend on smartphones and tablets, more and more bank customers are seeing the need to go mobile whenever possible for simple transactions such as deposits and withdrawal requests.
Why do people use mobile banking?
Enabling mobile banking may not just help people achieve convenient, quick tasks. The potential for establishing 4-hour banking during weekday evenings to account for current work schedules is also being recognized. With the increasing time that consumers spend on smartphones and tablets, more and more bank customers are seeing the need to go mobile whenever possible for simple transactions such as deposits and withdrawal requests.
What features you should add
Banks are adding features like custom borrowing limits, reasonable interest rates, and improved handling for their mobile app to compete in the fast-paced digital banking market. Mobile banking has become a phenomenon and is rapidly growing.
As we live life on the go, it makes sense for this new kind of technology to exist and permeate throughout our daily life. Mobile banking is quickly becoming one of the best ways for banks to keep up with customer needs.
With apps offering an array of critical banking solutions, people are relying not only on their online banking accounts but also on their mobile devices. The key takeaway is that apps will continue to provide essential banking tools and help make banking convenient. Almost every bank has set out to make its offerings more personable and less cumbersome.
How do banks gain loyal customers with mobile banking
Scattered around the world, many banks are now offering free banking features to customers-for example, sending money through their mobile phones. The rise of mobile banking shows that the market is anticipating a much-needed change in finances for people with very busy lives. Banks can take advantage of this trend by reallocating resources and providing benefits unique to the evolving trends of our fast-paced society.
Conclusion
The demand for personal information and the growing convenience of mobile banking has led to mobile transactions to increase. Bitcoin has seen a steady rise in market value, with one Bitcoin currently worth over $10,000 USD.
The most common mobile payment services include Visa Checkout, Apple Pay, Android Pay, PayPal Payments, Amazon Payments, and Samsung Pay.
This article was penned by Jonathan P. Wright. Jonathan is a freelance writer for multiple mainstream publications and CVO of RADIOPUSHERS. You can read more of his work by clicking here.
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