by Jonathan P-Wright | Jun 13, 2025 | Latest, Music News |
Image credit: lev radin / Shutterstock.com
In a cultural crossover few anticipated but many celebrated, Grammy-winning rapper and pop culture icon Megan Thee Stallion has announced she is developing her own anime series. The surprise revelation came during her appearance at DreamCon, a convention that celebrates anime, gaming, and the contributions of Black creatives in fandom spaces. Megan, a longtime anime enthusiast, took the stage dressed as Yoruichi Shihōin from the anime classic “Bleach” and unveiled her collaboration with acclaimed producer Carl Jones, known for his work on “The Boondocks” and “Black Dynamite.”
This project, which will debut on Prime Video, is not just a vanity experiment or a branding gimmick. It’s a full-scale anime series created by someone who grew up loving the medium, finally seizing the opportunity to contribute to it in a meaningful way. This announcement has sparked widespread excitement among anime fans, hip-hop heads, and anyone who understands the power of creative cross-pollination.
Megan’s personal connection to anime has been well documented. Over the years, she’s made her fandom a central part of her public identity. Whether through Instagram cosplays, interviews, or her previous Crunchyroll collaboration, Megan has shown time and again that she isn’t jumping on a trend—she’s been living it.
In 2020, Megan teamed up with Crunchyroll to launch an anime-inspired streetwear collection. The capsule line included t-shirts, hoodies, and tote bags, all adorned with anime versions of the rapper. The pieces also referenced her hit song “Savage,” tying her music and anime love into a cohesive visual identity. It was a moment that underscored her genuine affection for anime culture and her desire to merge it with her brand in an authentic way.
Beyond fashion, Megan has also spoken at length about how anime has inspired her life. In a 2020 interview with Crunchyroll, she shared:
“I’m half anime character, half rapper. I like how you see a character, and it starts off, he’s not really the strongest, he might be a little weak, but he has to go through all this training. You grow with the character. You see all the trials and tribulations they go through. Then you meet new people along the way that help them become the person he needs to be. I apply that to my life a lot.”
That quote encapsulates the essence of what anime represents to so many fans: growth, resilience, friendship, transformation. For Megan, these are not just themes she appreciates as a viewer, but values she embodies as an artist. From her early days releasing freestyles on YouTube to her meteoric rise in the rap industry, Megan has lived the anime protagonist arc in real time.
So what can fans expect from this new anime series? While specific plot details remain tightly under wraps, the creative partnership between Megan and Carl Jones suggests a show that will be both visually dynamic and narratively deep. Jones is known for blending satire, social commentary, and stylistic flair. His work on “The Boondocks” helped redefine Black animation, while “Black Dynamite” pushed boundaries with its bold visuals and biting humor.
Combining Jones’ experience with Megan’s vision and charisma has the potential to produce something groundbreaking. Given Megan’s emphasis on character growth, strength, and identity, the anime is likely to reflect those themes in a futuristic, action-packed, or even magical girl format. It could be a story rooted in hip-hop aesthetics or draw on more traditional shonen or seinen influences with a feminist twist.
The significance of Megan creating an anime cannot be overstated. Anime has long suffered from a lack of diversity, both in front of and behind the screen. Black characters are often sidelined or stereotyped, and the industry has historically struggled with cultural representation. By taking on the role of creator, Megan is helping to rewrite that narrative. She is placing a Black woman at the helm of a genre that’s often been criticized for its lack of inclusivity.
Moreover, Megan is not alone in this movement. Other artists like Michael B. Jordan and Pharrell Williams have also stepped into the anime and animation space, reflecting a broader cultural moment where Black creatives are reclaiming genre storytelling. Megan’s anime isn’t just entertainment—it’s a statement.
This creative expansion also dovetails with Megan’s larger entrepreneurial pursuits. Just one day before her DreamCon appearance, she launched her new swimwear line, Hot Girl Summer, at PARAISO Miami Swim Week. The 18-piece collection, featuring vibrant bikinis, monokinis, one-piece swimsuits, and cover-ups, is now available at Walmart, Megan’s own website, and other outlets. Prices range from $16 to $28, making it both stylish and accessible.
In her press release, Megan said, “Everyone knows I love being near a pool or a beach, so I finally decided to turn my passion into a business and create my own swimwear brand. It was only right that we kick off Hot Girl Summer with this launch and provide Hotties of all body types with the official Hot Girl uniform. I used to shop at Walmart growing up, so it’s a full circle to have my own line available at Walmart and I’m so grateful for their support.”
This move reflects a broader trend among celebrities who are expanding their personal brands into fashion, beauty, and lifestyle sectors. But again, what makes Megan stand out is the intentionality behind her ventures. Whether she’s creating a swimsuit or an anime, she does it with the aim of empowering others, particularly young Black women who rarely see themselves reflected in these spaces.
Her swimwear line and anime series are two sides of the same coin: bold declarations of autonomy, creativity, and representation. They show that Megan isn’t content to be boxed in by industry expectations. She is forging her own path—not just as a rapper, but as a mogul, storyteller, and icon of modern femininity.
The response to Megan’s anime announcement has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media buzzed with excitement, fan art, and speculation about the show’s storyline. Anime fans expressed their joy that someone with genuine love for the medium is finally stepping into a creator role. Meanwhile, hip-hop heads celebrated Megan’s continued ascent as a cultural powerhouse.
This isn’t just another celebrity project—it’s a cultural moment. It shows the power of fandom to inspire real-world creation. It shows how being a “nerd” or a “fan” is no longer a weakness or a quirk, but a strength. It shows that representation matters, and when people are given the tools to tell their own stories, they create magic.
As Megan continues to rise, her ventures in music, fashion, and animation serve as a blueprint for how to build a legacy that’s both personal and revolutionary. She is not just contributing to pop culture; she is reshaping it in her own image.
In the months ahead, fans will be eagerly awaiting more details about the anime—its name, characters, plot, and release date. But even now, before a single frame has aired, the project is already a triumph. It affirms that anime can be a space for everyone, and that when artists bring their full selves into their work, the results are nothing short of extraordinary.
Stay tuned for what promises to be one of the most exciting creative projects of the year. Megan Thee Stallion’s anime journey is just beginning—and the world is watching with anticipation and applause.
by Laghe Andrews | Jun 13, 2025 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Photo by KOBU Agency on Unsplash
After more than 15 years of silence as a duo, Clipse—made up of brothers Pusha T and Malice—is finally breaking their musical hiatus. The Virginia-bred rap pair is gearing up to release a brand-new album titled Let God Sort ‘Em Out, marking a highly anticipated reunion that has been years in the making.
The official announcement came on Thursday, May 29, shaking the hip-hop world to its core. The iconic duo not only revealed the album’s title but also confirmed its release date: July 11. To make the announcement even more thrilling, Clipse dropped their lead single, “Ace Trumpets,” at midnight. Produced by the legendary Pharrell Williams, the track is already stirring up buzz across streaming platforms.
This album marks Clipse’s fourth official studio release and follows a long period of speculation, surprise appearances, and hints dropped over the years. Their return is not just a musical event; it’s a cultural moment loaded with nostalgia, reinvention, and legacy.
The Power of Reunion: Clipse & Pharrell Reunite
One of the most electrifying aspects of this release is the return of Pharrell Williams as producer. As one-half of The Neptunes, Pharrell was instrumental in crafting the sound that made Clipse a household name in the early 2000s. His work on Lord Willin’ and Hell Hath No Fury helped define the gritty, minimalist sonic landscape that became synonymous with the group.
With Pharrell back at the helm, Let God Sort ‘Em Out promises to tap into that same raw, authentic energy while also evolving to meet the moment. Pharrell’s production style, always ahead of the curve, brings a fusion of classic Neptunes grooves and modern innovation. Early listens of “Ace Trumpets” suggest a return to form that stays true to Clipse’s roots while pushing their sound into new territory.
Exclusive Merch and Strategic Rollout
The rollout for this album is already signaling a broader cultural play. Fans can now pre-order the album in multiple formats, including vinyl LP, CD, and digital download. Pre-orders are available via the official site LetGodSortEmOut.com and at the Complex Shop.
Alongside the music, a limited-edition line of merchandise has launched, featuring visual direction from renowned artist KAWS. Known for his iconic characters and contributions to the worlds of fine art and fashion, KAWS lends a fresh visual identity to the Clipse comeback. The merchandise includes exclusive apparel and collectibles, making this not just an auditory experience but a lifestyle drop.
And that’s not all. The team behind Let God Sort ‘Em Out has hinted at even more collaborations with heavyweights in the streetwear and design industries. This strategic move positions Clipse not just as artists, but as brand architects navigating the intersection of music, art, and culture.
The Journey Back: Building the Hype Over Time
This reunion didn’t happen overnight. Fans who have been closely following Clipse know the signs have been there. Back in 2022, Malice made a surprise appearance alongside Pusha T at the BET Hip-Hop Awards, reigniting hopes that the brothers might collaborate again. That moment sent social media into a frenzy, with speculation swirling about a full-scale reunion.
The momentum continued into 2023 when Clipse performed together at Pharrell’s Something in the Water Festival. Their chemistry on stage was undeniable, and the crowd’s reaction only amplified the demand for a new project.
In more recent months, Clipse has been strategically inserting themselves into the fashion and cultural zeitgeist. They appeared together at the Louis Vuitton Spring/Summer 2025 runway show—a showcase directed by Pharrell himself. Rumors of an upcoming collaboration with John Legend further fueled speculation. Every appearance, every whisper, added fuel to the fire, building a crescendo that has now exploded into the official album announcement.
Dual Journeys: Where Pusha T and Malice Have Been
To understand why this album matters so much, it’s important to look at where the Clipse brothers have been over the last decade and a half. After releasing Til the Casket Drops in 2009, the duo went in different directions—both creatively and personally.
Pusha T embarked on a successful solo career under Kanye West’s G.O.O.D. Music label. His solo discography, including Daytona and It’s Almost Dry, has earned critical acclaim for its sharp lyricism, minimalistic production, and thematic consistency centered around street narratives and introspection. Pusha cemented his place as one of hip-hop’s most revered wordsmiths.
Meanwhile, Malice underwent a profound personal transformation. He changed his name to No Malice and turned to Christian rap, focusing on themes of redemption, faith, and moral reflection. His solo work took on a more spiritual tone, reflecting his changed worldview. For many fans, this shift seemed to signal the end of Clipse as a unit.
That’s why Let God Sort ‘Em Out carries such weight. It represents not just a musical reunion, but a reconciliation of personal evolution. Two artists who took divergent paths are coming back together—bringing with them a depth of experience, a maturity, and a renewed artistic vision.
Backed by the Best: Roc Nation & High-Caliber Creative Team
Clipse’s new era is fortified by the backing of Roc Nation, the influential entertainment agency founded by Jay-Z. Roc Nation will handle marketing and distribution for the album, ensuring that the project receives a high-profile rollout in both digital and physical spaces.
This strategic partnership signifies Clipse’s intention to return not just with quality music, but with the infrastructure and resources to make a significant impact. It also suggests a savvy understanding of how modern music marketing works—from playlisting to experiential branding to cross-platform storytelling.
Add to that the creative input of Pharrell and KAWS, and you have a team that blends sonic mastery, cultural relevance, and artistic credibility. It’s a dream team assembled for a comeback that’s anything but ordinary.
The Cultural and Musical Landscape
The hip-hop world Clipse is returning to is vastly different from the one they left. In the 2000s, lyricism, storytelling, and street authenticity were paramount. Today’s landscape is more diversified—dominated by streaming metrics, viral moments, and evolving subgenres.
Yet, in many ways, Clipse’s return feels perfectly timed. There’s a growing appetite for substance in hip-hop. Artists like Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, and Griselda have proven that lyrical dexterity and authentic storytelling still resonate deeply with audiences. In this climate, Clipse isn’t an outlier—they’re a necessary return to form.
Moreover, the duo’s influence has only grown in their absence. Their unique blend of street realism, philosophical undertones, and avant-garde production has inspired a new generation of rappers and producers. Their return is likely to both challenge and elevate the current state of the genre.
What to Expect From the Album
While full details of the album’s tracklist remain under wraps, “Ace Trumpets” offers some clues. The track combines haunting instrumentation with punchy lyricism and layered meaning—all hallmarks of classic Clipse. Fans can expect themes of morality, survival, street economics, and personal growth, all delivered with the precision and intensity that have defined the duo’s sound.
Given the involvement of Pharrell and the duo’s new perspectives, the album is also likely to experiment with new sonic textures and thematic angles. It’s not just about recreating the past; it’s about reinterpreting it for the present.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy Reawakened
Let God Sort ‘Em Out is more than an album. It’s a cultural reawakening, a bridging of eras, and a statement about the enduring power of authenticity in music. For longtime fans, it’s a dream realized. For new listeners, it’s an invitation to experience the power of masterful storytelling.
Clipse isn’t just coming back—they’re reasserting their place at the top of hip-hop’s lyrical elite. July 11 marks the beginning of a new chapter, but also the continuation of a legacy that never truly went away.
In a world increasingly dominated by fleeting trends, Clipse is offering something rare: a moment of permanence, crafted with intention, and driven by artistry. And as the album title suggests, they’re leaving the judgment to a higher power. All we have to do is listen.
by Jonathan P-Wright | May 30, 2025 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Image credit: Jgphotographydetroit / Shutterstock.com
Awrd season has become an almost year-round affair for Kendrick Lamar. The celebrated rapper, known for his sharp lyricism and thought-provoking storytelling, continues to dominate the music awards landscape. Most recently, the 2025 BET Awards nominations were revealed on Thursday, May 8, and true to form, Kendrick Lamar once again led the pack with a staggering 10 nominations. This feat is a testament to his enduring impact on hip-hop and contemporary music as a whole.
Kendrick’s reign at the awards shows has become something of a routine in recent years. Before this, he led the nominations at the 66th Grammy Awards, the music industry’s most prestigious event, and is also a frontrunner at the upcoming 51st American Music Awards (AMAs). Yet, what sets the BET Awards apart this year is the broader recognition of his body of work. While his diss track “Not Like Us” — a powerful and confrontational song that sparked major conversation — remains a significant factor in his continued success, his nominations at the BET Awards go well beyond that single release. They reflect a multifaceted appreciation for his artistry, both as a solo performer and as a collaborator.
Central to his nominations is his latest album, GNX. The album is nominated for Album of the Year, a category that is notoriously competitive. His main competitors include none other than Beyoncé, with her highly praised project COWBOY CARTER, Drake and PARTYNEXTDOOR’s collaborative album Some Sexy Songs 4 U, and Doechii’s highly anticipated debut Alligator Bites Never Heal. Each of these albums has made waves in their own right, pushing creative boundaries and resonating deeply with audiences. This sets the stage for a truly thrilling contest where any one of these artists could walk away with the top prize.
In the realm of collaborations, Lamar’s presence is particularly dominant. He is nominated for three separate songs in the Best Collaboration category. These tracks include “luther” featuring SZA, a moody and soulful number that has been praised for its chemistry and lyrical depth; “Like That” by Future and Metro Boomin, which showcases Kendrick’s ability to seamlessly blend with other top artists and producers; and “30 For 30,” another collaboration with a close TDE (Top Dawg Entertainment) associate. Notably, “luther” and “Like That” also appear in the Viewer’s Choice Award category, which reflects fan enthusiasm and the cultural impact of these songs. Alongside them is “Not Like Us,” demonstrating that Lamar’s diss track is still very much in the conversation with fans and critics alike.
The influence of “Not Like Us” extends beyond audio recognition; the music video, directed by the renowned Drake, is also nominated for Video of the Year. This visual component is crucial, as it amplifies the song’s message and artistic impact. The nomination also shines a spotlight on Lamar’s role behind the camera, with both he and his frequent creative partner Dave Free earning nods for Video Director of the Year. This highlights Kendrick’s growing presence not just as a performer but as a visionary who shapes the aesthetic and narrative of his work.
Rounding out his impressive slate of nominations is the Best Male Hip Hop Artist category. This recognition is emblematic of Lamar’s consistent excellence and influence within the hip-hop genre. He’s not just nominated for isolated pieces of work; he is celebrated for his overall contributions to music throughout the year.
Given all this, the question naturally arises: is there anyone who can stop Kendrick Lamar’s award show streak in 2025? The short answer is that it seems unlikely—unless Lamar himself opts to step back from releasing new music this year. The anticipation for a deluxe version of GNX remains high, and fans are eager for any new content from the artist. His ability to maintain such a strong presence across multiple major awards demonstrates not only his talent but also his strategic approach to his career.
Other artists are certainly in the mix and deserve mention. Drake, for example, is preparing for his next solo project and remains a formidable competitor. His influence and track record of success mean that he is always a threat in any award category. Doechii is another rising star, with her debut album generating significant buzz. She represents the new wave of talent that could shake up the status quo. However, despite these challengers, Lamar’s established legacy and current momentum give him a considerable edge.
Beyond the nominations and potential wins, Kendrick Lamar’s career trajectory offers a glimpse into what it takes to stay relevant and influential in the modern music industry. His ability to evolve artistically while maintaining authenticity resonates deeply with fans and critics. He’s not just chasing awards for the sake of accolades; his work often carries social and cultural commentary that adds layers of meaning to his art.
The BET Awards nominations underscore the respect and admiration Lamar commands from his peers and the industry. Leading the nominations in such a prestigious event that celebrates Black excellence in entertainment is no small feat. It cements his status as one of the most important voices in hip-hop and modern music.
Looking ahead, the landscape of music awards is always evolving. New artists will emerge, and established ones will innovate. But as of now, Kendrick Lamar’s streak seems poised to continue. His commitment to quality, willingness to collaborate with a diverse range of artists, and ability to connect with audiences through both his music and visuals place him in a league of his own.
For fans, the upcoming BET Awards and other ceremonies will be exciting to watch. Will Lamar continue his dominance, or will fresh talent rise to challenge his throne? Only time will tell, but for now, Kendrick Lamar remains the benchmark by which excellence is measured.
by Laghe Andrews | May 30, 2025 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Image credit: Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com
The film Sinners has rapidly become more than just a movie—it’s a cultural moment. Its mix of vampire mythology intertwined with profound themes of racial reckoning has drawn extensive attention, but perhaps the most powerful element lies in its music. At its core, Sinners pulses with the spirit of the Delta Blues, a genre whose influence extends far beyond the American South and reverberates worldwide.
The standout musical piece in the film is undoubtedly “I Lied to You,” delivered with raw emotional power by actor and musician Miles Caton, who plays Sammie “Preacher Boy” Moore in the movie. This soulful track was written by the legendary Raphael Saadiq during a studio session alongside Oscar-winning composer Ludwig Göransson—known for his work on director Ryan Coogler’s Black Panther films. Saadiq brings to the table a career that spans almost 40 years, including three Grammy Awards and a legacy of collaborations with artists like Beyoncé on “COWBOY CARTER” and Solange on her critically acclaimed album A Seat at the Table.
Though Saadiq is widely celebrated for his deep roots in R&B, his connection to the music of Sinners goes beyond genre—it touches on his own story. In a Billboard interview published on May 2, Saadiq revealed that he shares a similar background to Sammie, the film’s complex character. Discussing the tension between Sammie’s secular music passion and his church upbringing, Saadiq explained, “That really resonated with me because that’s exactly how I grew up. Playing R&B music, I was told it was the devil’s music, so I completely understood where Sammie was coming from.”
This personal tie to the story allowed Saadiq to bring an authenticity to the songwriting process. He also noted how the project reconnected him with his Baptist roots, particularly the vocal traditions of his childhood church: “Even the humming on the track—I pulled that from Union Baptist Church. It’s a type of devotional singing that’s deeply ingrained in me.”
The Power of Miles Caton’s Voice
When Saadiq composed “I Lied to You,” he had not yet heard Miles Caton sing it. “That voice is something else,” he said. “I wrote the song imagining how I would sing the blues, but when I finally heard Miles sing it, I was blown away.”
Despite Saadiq’s own musical prowess, he felt the song belonged solely to Miles Caton’s voice. Even though there was an offer for Saadiq to release his own demo alongside the film’s soundtrack, he declined, preferring listeners to experience the track exclusively through Miles’s powerful performance. “The movie is so incredible that when people go to streaming platforms, they should only hear Miles. His voice is incredible,” Saadiq emphasized.
For Saadiq, this wasn’t simply an act of humility; it was a recognition that Miles’s voice perfectly embodied the emotional truth of Sammie’s character and the film’s themes.
A Hook Born from Real Life
The phrase “I Lied to You” is far from a random lyric. It originated in Saadiq’s own experiences. Reflecting on his youth, Saadiq recalled a moment when he was struggling to tell his girlfriend the truth about a difficult situation. Instead, he told her, “You know what would make a great blues line? ‘They say the truth hurts, so I lied to you.’”
That line lingered in his mind for years as a powerful blues hook. “I’ve always had blues ideas,” Saadiq admitted. “I’d often come up with blues hooks because they’re some of the best hooks in music.”
For the film, Saadiq initially believed that Sammie was lying to his father, which inspired the song’s title and lyrics. However, as the character developed, it became clear that Sammie was actually trying to tell the truth, even if it wasn’t fully accepted. This emotional complexity added layers of meaning to the song and resonated deeply with Saadiq’s own reflections on truth and deception.
Collaboration with Ludwig Göransson and the Birth of the Track
The creative synergy between Raphael Saadiq and Ludwig Göransson was critical in bringing “I Lied to You” to life. Göransson’s background in cinematic scoring and Saadiq’s mastery of rhythm and blues fused to create a track that was both haunting and cinematic. This collaboration enhanced the film’s emotional landscape, anchoring key scenes with music that felt timeless and authentic.
Experiencing the Song in the Film’s Premier
Saadiq first heard the full version of “I Lied to You” performed by Miles Caton at the Sinners premiere in Oakland, California, on April 16, 2024. Watching the song come alive on the big screen, amidst the movie’s powerful narrative, was a moving moment for Saadiq. Two days later, the film was released worldwide in theaters, including IMAX formats, and quickly garnered box office success. By early May, the film had grossed over $185 million, according to The Numbers, proving both commercial and critical acclaim.
The Delta Blues: Music as Cultural Legacy
The choice to center Sinners’ soundtrack around Delta Blues is a deliberate and meaningful one. Blues music originated from the deep South of the United States and is a genre that has long communicated the pain, resilience, and spirit of African American communities. It is often considered the foundation of much of American music today—from jazz and rock to R&B and hip-hop.
By placing blues music front and center, Sinners pays homage to this rich cultural legacy and reclaims it within a modern narrative. This musical choice creates a bridge between the struggles of the past and present, weaving history into the film’s contemporary themes of identity, power, and redemption.
Raphael Saadiq’s Artistic Journey and Personal Connection
Raphael Saadiq’s career has been marked by his ability to navigate various musical styles with authenticity. Whether producing smooth R&B or venturing into soulful gospel and blues, Saadiq’s work always reflects deep emotional honesty.
In Sinners, his songwriting reconnects him to a foundational part of his own life—his church upbringing. He described how the devotional humming in the track reminded him of singing in church as a child, a spiritual practice that left a lasting imprint on his musical sensibility.
Moreover, Saadiq confessed he had always admired the blues but doubted his own ability to sing it authentically. “I’ve had blues ideas for years, but I never thought I had the voice for it,” he said. The chance to write for Sammie and hear Miles Caton bring that voice to life fulfilled a personal and artistic desire for Saadiq.
The Emotional Core of “I Lied to You”
At its heart, “I Lied to You” is a song about the complicated nature of truth. The title suggests deceit, but the deeper story involves the pain and vulnerability that comes with honesty, especially when it challenges relationships and expectations.
This tension aligns with the film’s larger themes of identity and conflict—Sammie’s struggle to reconcile his secular music passion with his religious roots mirrors broader societal struggles around cultural and racial identity.
Saadiq’s lyricism captures this perfectly, creating a song that feels both personal and universal. Listeners don’t just hear a character’s confession—they hear echoes of their own experiences with love, fear, and self-expression.
Conclusion: A Song That Transcends the Screen
The creation of “I Lied to You” for Sinners is a remarkable example of how music can elevate storytelling. Through Raphael Saadiq’s masterful songwriting and Miles Caton’s unforgettable voice, the track transcends its role as a film song and becomes a powerful expression of cultural memory and emotional truth.
In connecting his own history with the blues and gospel traditions of his youth, Saadiq crafted more than just a soundtrack. He contributed a living piece of art that honors the blues’ enduring legacy—its capacity to tell stories of hardship, redemption, and hope.
As Sinners continues to captivate audiences worldwide, the haunting refrain of “I Lied to You” stands as a reminder that music isn’t just entertainment—it’s a vital thread that binds us to our history, our emotions, and each other.
by Jonathan P-Wright | May 23, 2025 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Photo by Hanny Naibaho on Unsplash
Memphis rapper Key Glock stands at a pivotal crossroads in his career, ready to usher in a new chapter that honors his past while boldly embracing the future. As he gears up to release his much-anticipated album Glockavelli, fans are also buzzing about a treasure trove of unreleased music he recorded with the late Young Dolph—his mentor, friend, and a legendary figure in the hip-hop community.
For years, Key Glock built his career on the foundation of independence. As an artist who valued creative control and authenticity, Glock defied the conventional industry path by thriving without a major label’s backing. His steady rise became a blueprint for independent artists striving to make a name for themselves in a saturated market. Yet even with all his success, Glock knew his evolution required something more. He was clear-eyed about the next level of his career ambitions, and those ambitions extended beyond streaming numbers and independent accolades.
In an interview with Billboard, Glock openly reflected on his journey, saying, “I feel like I exceeded my goals as an independent artist.” This statement captured the essence of his accomplishments to date, but also hinted at his hunger for growth. For Key Glock, success isn’t just about where he is now—it’s about the heights he’s determined to reach next. “At this point, I’m just working with people that have been operating on the level I already saw myself on,” he shared. His vision includes platinum records and more industry recognition—achievements that come with strategic alliances and bigger platforms. “In this next chapter, I’m planning on getting platinum albums and more plaques.”
The decision to partner with a major label, specifically Republic Records, marked a turning point. Yet, unlike many artists who sign major deals chasing fame or quick cash, Glock’s choice was deeply personal and profoundly influenced by the late Young Dolph. The bond between Dolph and Glock went beyond mentorship—it was rooted in brotherhood, trust, and shared dreams for success on their own terms.
Dolph’s tragic death in Memphis in November 2021 sent shockwaves through the music world. But even before his passing, Dolph was preparing Key Glock for the future. Glock recounted a powerful conversation that took place just one week before Dolph was killed. “The week before Dolph passed in Memphis, him, Daddy O, and a couple more of our circle just had a regular talk, a round table talk,” Glock remembered. “And it was so crazy—Dolph said, ‘If anything go left, like, if anything happens to me, take Glock to the majors.’”
This moment wasn’t just a casual suggestion; it was a directive laced with foresight and urgency. Dolph, who had carved out a legendary status as one of the biggest independent rappers in the game, knew the value of autonomy. Yet, he also recognized the advantages that could come from strategic partnerships with major labels—resources, exposure, and the financial muscle to elevate careers to new levels. “There was always me and him in talks anyway,” Glock explained. “I never wanted to be the biggest independent artist. That was his thing… I never wanted to take that away.” But both understood the reality of the business: “We always knew how much money we could make with a major.”
Signing with Republic Records was not a decision taken lightly. Glock emphasized that it wasn’t about desperation or abandoning independence out of necessity. “It wasn’t even needed now,” he clarified. “It just was okay. I know bruh wanted me to do this, and he didn’t say it for no reason, and it wasn’t no coincidence he said it like a week before.” There’s a bittersweet weight to that timing, but also a profound sense of destiny.
Key Glock’s rise to prominence isn’t just a story about a rapper gaining fame—it’s a narrative about legacy, resilience, and the complex realities of navigating the music industry as an independent artist who eventually embraces a larger platform. His last major project, Glockoma 2, released in 2023, was met with both critical acclaim and commercial success. Songs like “Sucker Free” and “Let’s Go” showcased his distinctive style—raw, unapologetic, and undeniably Memphis in spirit.
But the story doesn’t end there. Beyond his solo success, fans have long been eager to hear more from the duo of Glock and Dolph. Their collaborations have become essential parts of the Memphis rap canon, blending Dolph’s charismatic leadership with Glock’s fierce energy. The vault of unreleased music they left behind is described by Glock as “unlimited.” This cache of material holds the promise of extending Dolph’s legacy and offering fans more insight into the creative synergy they shared.
Speaking with The Breakfast Club, Glock teased the imminent arrival of this music: “It’s en route. I’ma just let y’all know, it’s en route.” Despite his eagerness to share this work, Glock also highlighted the importance of timing and strategy. “Really, it ain’t up to me,” he admitted. “You ask me, I’ll drop a tape every month. That’s how much music I got, but you just gotta be strategic with stuff.” This statement reveals his growing understanding of the music industry’s intricacies—releasing music too quickly can undermine its impact, while carefully timed drops maximize reach and resonance.
Early in his career, Glock’s approach to releasing music was much more immediate. “I never understood that s**t,” he said candidly. “Like, my first two, three years in the game, as soon as I recorded something, I was ready to put it out.” This impatience is common among emerging artists driven by passion and the desire for validation. However, over time, Glock has learned to balance creativity with patience. “But I didn’t understand the industry at the time like I do now.” This shift from impulsive release to deliberate strategy marks his maturation as an artist and entrepreneur.
What’s compelling about Key Glock’s journey is how it reflects a broader narrative in hip-hop—the tension between independence and mainstream success. Many artists pride themselves on staying independent, controlling their own careers, and owning their masters. But the realities of the industry—marketing power, distribution reach, and financial backing—often push artists toward partnerships with major labels to scale their success.
For Glock, this partnership is also a tribute to Dolph’s vision. It’s about honoring the mentor’s belief in him and continuing the mission they started together. Dolph’s legacy isn’t just the music he made, but the path he paved for artists like Glock to thrive on their own terms.
The upcoming Glockavelli album symbolizes this duality. Its title alone evokes a sense of homage and evolution—melding Glock’s identity with the reverence he holds for hip-hop legends like Tupac Shakur, who was famously nicknamed “Makaveli.” Fans can anticipate a project that’s not just a collection of tracks but a carefully curated statement of where Key Glock stands today as both an artist and a businessman.
The broader impact of this album and the unreleased Dolph collaborations extends beyond Memphis or even hip-hop. It’s a narrative about mentorship, legacy, and the ways artists navigate grief, ambition, and industry pressures. For a generation of listeners who grew up watching Dolph and Glock rise, this music offers more than entertainment—it’s a connection to culture, history, and resilience.
Key Glock’s story also highlights the emotional weight artists carry. Losing Dolph was a devastating blow. But instead of letting grief stall his career, Glock channels that pain into purpose. “We had this whole plan,” he shared. “We knew where we could go if we played our cards right.” The music and strategic partnerships are the realization of that plan, an homage to the past and a beacon for the future.
As Glockavelli prepares to drop and the unreleased tracks with Young Dolph approach release, the hip-hop community watches closely. Key Glock’s evolution from an independent artist to a major label contender embodies the complexities of modern music careers. It’s a testament to growth, perseverance, and the enduring power of mentorship.
In a world where artists often face pressure to sacrifice their creative vision for commercial success, Glock’s journey offers a blueprint for balancing both. It’s about honoring your roots while adapting to new realities—an essential lesson for any artist navigating the ever-changing music industry.
Looking ahead, Key Glock’s mission is clear: to cement his legacy, elevate Memphis’s voice on the global stage, and keep the spirit of Young Dolph alive through every verse, every beat, and every project.
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