by Pharron Fields | Jun 7, 2021 | Business News, Latest, Music News |
THE WORLD’S FIRST-EVER NFT AUCTION OF AUTOMOTIVE ART WILL BE HELD BY RICK ROSS IN CRYPTOCURRENCY
With the release of his history-making debut, Rick Ross is the latest hip-hop star to make a splash in the cryptocurrency market.
In a report from Forbes, the music mogul and producer duo Cool & Dre teamed up with Porsche 911 art car designer Rich B. Caliente to create an NFT.
As Rick Ross wrote in an email, “Painting with the can as art is both a way to express the culture and to do something new and creative.”
In sum, Caliente stated, “We had a lot of synergy and energy while doing this project.” A tangible asset is created when all of our relationships and passions are brought together.
Slashdot, a management consulting firm affiliated with the NFT, helped launch the Bitcoin collaboration. In contrast to most NFTs, the Porsche auction also included ownership of the art and the purchase of the car.
Forbes reports that Producer Dre from Cool & Dre said that NFTs will prosper in the music space. Being able to keep our creations is satisfying and exciting.
Based upon the Metaverse and 3D animation the Porsche 911 NFT was built upon, Slashdot co-founder Brad Flaherty described the Porsche 911 NFT as a virtual reality creation that will “come to life inside of a digital world.”
A portion of the proceeds from the NFT auction, reported by Reuters last Friday (June 4), went to the South Florida-based Irie Foundation. Up until June 14, blockchain cryptocurrency, Ethereum, will be accepted as payment for the NFT.
With the market getting bigger and bigger, music-cryptocolumbia collaborations represent a huge opportunity. In addition to the NFT space, hip-hop artists such as Waka Flocka have also gotten involved as a way to return money and ownership back to creatives.
Among the musicians who have entered cryptocurrency and NFT are Lil Yachty, Akon, Quincy Jones, and many others.
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.
by Pharron Fields | Jun 7, 2021 | Business News, Digital Mogul, Latest |
FORMERLY THROWN AWAY AT A DUMPSTER, FREDDIE FIGGERS BECAME A MILLIONAIRE TECH ENTREPRENEUR DESPITE ALL ODDS
It doesn’t have to be your circumstances that define you.
Freddie Figgers found out when he was eight that his biological mother abandoned him near a dumpster shortly after he was born, according to BBC News.
“Listen, Fred, I’m going to tell you the truth. I adopted you out of foster care because I didn’t wish to send you through foster care.” Freddie recalls his father telling him, “You are my son.” Your biological mother threw you away, and you and Betty Mae adopted you out of foster care.
He describes the thoughts that went through his mind after finding out that his adopted parents found him near a dumpster.
He told me that and I felt unwanted and that made me feel trash.” said Freddie. I remember he grabbed my shoulder and said, “Listen, don’t ever let that bother you.'”
Although Freddie continued to be plagued by the circumstances surrounding his adoption throughout his youth, he persevered.
I was called a lot of names when I was younger, including ‘dumpster baby,’ ‘trash can boy,’ ‘who wants you,’ and ‘you’re dirty.'” said Freddie.
In 1989, Nathan and Betty Mae were living in Quincy, a rural community in North Florida, when Freddie was born.
After fostering many children, they chose to adopt Freddie when he was just two days old.
It was always my father’s intention to help others, stopping by the roadside to help strangers and feeding the homeless, he said. The reason I wanted to be like him was because he adopted and raised me.”
In the meantime, Freddie and Nathan would do “dumpster diving” on the weekends, looking for old things that could still be useful.
Freddie wanted a computer.
“I was always fascinated by computers, and there is an old saying that ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure. During that time, gateway computers weren’t in our budget.”
At the age of nine, Freddie found a broken Mac while browsing in a Goodwill store with his father. The rest is history.
“When I got home and the computer wouldn’t turn on, I took it apart,” said Freddie.
His determination would not let up until he was able to get the computer up again.
“When I inspected it, I found some damaged capacitors. Using parts I had from my father’s radio alarm clock, I built a circuit board.” I used my father’s soldering gun and I also had radios and alarm clocks.
A few attempts later, the computer powered on, and Freddie was convinced that technology was what he wanted to do the rest of his life.
In today’s world, Freddie Figgers is a millionaire inventor of inventions that include a GPS tracker, designed as a result of the Alzheimer’s disease his father, Natham, suffered from.
Within a month of selling the tracker rights, he lost his father.
Freddie continues to break into the tech industry, and he is married to attorney Natlie Figgers. Instilling this advice into their daughter is something he says he will do together as a couple.
The world may seem cold, but you must never give up.
The trajectory of Freddie Figgers’ life could’ve been very different if he’d given up.
He also offers this piece of advice for others: “Don’t allow your circumstances to define you.”
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.
by Fabiola Noel | Jun 5, 2021 | Latest, Social Justice |
Survivors from the 1921 Tulsa race massacre will each receive $100,000 following the centennial.
A Tulsa-based nonprofit will give a monetary gift to the three surviving witnesses of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. In an article in the Washington Post, it was reported that Viola Fletcher, Lessie Benningfield Randle, and Hughes Van Ellis would each be given $100,000 as part of the centennial commemorations.
Foundation founder and executive director Damario Solomon Simmons said the donations demonstrate the foundation’s commitment to ensuring justice for Black communities in Tulsa and across the country.
It is “a significant step on the long-overdue path to justice” and “a show of resistance to Greenwood’s attempts to erase” its Black community.
As a result of experiencing the bloodshed 100 years ago, all three men have talked openly about their experiences to preserve the story.
He recalled when white men and boys were entrusted with the duty of setting the city on fire following rumors of a white girl being assaulted by a Black teen. Some of [the buildings] were set ablaze. It was some of them that they tore up,” she said. “I will never want to see another event like that again.”
In his memoir, Ellis noted how he served his country as a soldier, but upon returning home he realized his skin color would remain a hindrance to progress.
“In my home country, I did not find any of those freedoms I had fought for overseas. Even though freedom was ripped away from me at home, I fought for freedom overseas,” he said “Both my community and home were destroyed. As far as I am concerned, America will be able to resolve this conflict in the long run. In the aftermath of the war, I discovered this freedom I fought for overseas was no longer there. My skin color prevented me from getting GI Bill benefits like white servicemen.”
A highlight of the testimony was Fletcher’s testimony before House members on the continued fight for reparations. While Simmons recognizes that the $300,000 gift pales by comparison to the survivors’ desired compensation, she hopes it offers some comfort and hope.
He expressed his excitement about doing his part to correct these injustices. As we continue to call for reparations, we must alleviate the financial burdens left behind by not only the massacre itself but also systemic racism that followed the massacre. In order to ensure enduring injustices are actively challenged, we have to tell their stories, confront our past, and learn from it. Tulsa Race Massacre changed the course of American history forever. The Tulsa Race Massacre is a prime example of how America continues to struggle with systemic racism.
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.
by Fabiola Noel | Jun 3, 2021 | Editorial Pick, Latest, Trending |
On September 17, 1967, in the crime-ridden and drug-infested ghettoes of the Bronx and Harlem, a gift from God was delivered: Malik Yoba. No silver spoon, white picket fence, house on the hills, or any type of relief during his early years of childhood—the streets of NYC in the 60s and 70s were vicious, and only the strong survived. By the age of fifteen, he had cheated death when a bullet was lodged in his neck. The bullet was removed, and Malik Yoba’s journey was just getting started.
Labeled as a “misunderstood child” during his early years, he possessed unusual compassion for inner-city youths and categorized many as the victims of widely held racial and social misperceptions. Malik Yoba engulfed himself in volunteering, mentoring, and inspiring the lives of the future leaders of tomorrow. Most people are totally unaware that Malik Yoba taught inner-city youths in the areas of acting and music.
Before he launched his illustrious career in Hollywood, the seeds of his success were already being planted within the youths of NYC.
In 1991, Malik Yoba auditioned for the blockbuster comedy movie Cool Runnings. Yoba’s role as a feisty and hot-tempered member of the Jamaican bobsled team was significant and necessary for the chemistry of the film. Movie critics were not convinced and panned the movie as merely average. However, audiences disagreed, and Cool Runnings soared in theaters, exceeding 68 million dollars. Malik’s flight of success took off and never came back down.
Soon, he landed the coveted role of J.C. Williams on the runaway FOX TV series “New York Undercover.” Playing alongside Michael de Lorenzo (as Eddie Torres), the show enabled viewers to see Harlem, crime, NYPD, rap music, and the entire City of New York from a whole different perspective. New York Undercover is one of the most successful TV shows in FOX TV history. The most important factor is its impact on pop and hip-hop culture. Celebrities worldwide craved to be a part of the show.
Everyone from Tyra Banks to Taye Diggs appeared on the show, and fame followed everyone. The show was the perfect balance between real-life issues and Hollywood drama. Viewers connected emotionally with each character, and public reaction was overwhelming. The essence of J.C. Williams was the talk of every local barbershop, beauty salon, and family BBQ everywhere. Malik Yoba and Michael de Lorenzo were the best duos in Hollywood since Earvin “Magic” Johnson and James Worthy. FOX and Malik Yoba were the new sensation on television, and the rose was growing through the concrete jungle. New York Undercover lasted four seasons and wrapped in late June 1998.
At around the same time, Yoba returned to activism with full force, helming a series of interactive lectures for troubled urban youth called “Why Are You on This Planet?” The program combined exercises in reading, writing, art, music, and visualization to teach children self-empowerment and the wisdom of solid decision-making. “Why Are You on This Planet?” qualified as an instant, triumphant success and continued seemingly without end; in the meantime, Yoba perpetuated his dramatic efforts as well, with contributions to innumerable motion pictures. In addition, he gave a pair of small, impressive performances in two very different 1997 indie dramas—first as Detective Carson in James Mangold’s all-star New Jersey policier Cop Land (1997), then as a studio engineer in George Tillman Jr.’s ensemble comedy-drama Soul Food, alongside Vivica A. Fox and Vanessa L. Williams.
From 2011 to 2012, Yoba appeared as former FBI Special Agent Bill Harken on “Alphas,” a science fiction drama series about a team of people with special abilities who belong to a secret department attached to the DOD. In 2013, Yoba joined the cast of “Revolution” as Jim Hudson, a former captain of the Monroe Republic. In 2015, Malik Yoba made history alongside FOX once more as he was cast as Vernon Turner, Lucious Lyon’s business partner and chairman of Empire Entertainment in “Empire.”
Yoba’s role is dynamic, challenging, inspiring, dark, and vintage Hollywood showmanship. Being the unsung hero of the Lucious Lyon Empire is a very intricate role and the perfect balance between obedience and power. When you watch Malik Yoba on the screen, you can hear, see, and feel his journey in every scene. Malik brings you directly into the moment, and he always leaves his audience wanting more. When you think of the impact of Malik Yoba not just in Hollywood but on the inner-city youths of NYC, the reflection of his power shines brightest.
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.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Jun 2, 2021 | Editorial Pick, Latest, Trending |
“FRIEND OF MINE” BY KELLY PRICE
“THE THINGS YOU DO [BAD BOY REMIX]” BY GINA THOMPSON FEAT. MISSY ELLIOTT
“HONEY” BY MARIAH CAREY
“SUMMERTIME” BY BEYONCÉ FEAT. DIDDY
“BREAKDOWN” BY MARIAH CAREY FEAT. BONE THUGS-N-HARMONY
“MO’ MONEY MO’ PROBLEMS” BY NOTORIOUS B.I.G.
“LOVE @ FIRST SIGHT” BY MARY J. BLIGE FEAT. METHOD MAN
“LET ME BLOW YA MIND” BY EVE FEAT. GWEN STEFANI
“Can’t NOBODY HOLD ME DOWN” BY PUFF DADDY FEAT MASE
“CAN’T LET HER GO” BY BOYZ II MEN
“ONLY YOU” BY 112 FEAT. NOTORIOUS BIG
“NEVER LEAVE YOU” BY LUMIDEE
“I’LL BE MISSING YOU” BY DIDDY FEAT. FAITH EVANS AND 112
“SPENDIN’ MONEY” BY R. KELLY
“YOU DON’T HAVE TO WORRY” BY NEW EDITION
Puff Daddy ft. Busta Rhymes and The Notorious B.I.G. “Victory,” No Way Out
Puff Daddy ft. Carl Thomas, Ginuwine, and Twista “Is This the End,” No Way Out
Puff Daddy ft. Foxy Brown “Friends,” No Way Out
“Niggas Bleed,” “Notorious Thugs,” “Another,” “Playa Hater,” “Nasty Boy,” “You’re Nobody (till Somebody Kills You)” from the album Life After Death.
Brian McKnight: “You Should Be Mine (Don’t Waste Your Time)” from the album Anytime
I’m sitting in my living room listening to the album “Personal Conversation” by Case (S/O to Case, your music is the perfect tempo to create a classic article) and watching one of my favorite TV shows, “Jeopardy.” The “cool factor” of Jeopardy is even if you don’t know the answer, it’s super intriguing to find out the absolute truth of the question. So when I research all of the “true” classics Stevie J has produced or contributed to, I find myself in another episode of jeopardy.
Hidden genius is a beautiful quality because it doesn’t seek attention, superficial attraction, or seeks its own interest; the motivation is fueled by passion and relentless ambition. The characteristics of Stevie J are a perfect blend of God-given vision, gargantuan inner drive, unflinching confidence, and an ounce of insanity. Ok, I love Case, but the “Red Berry” Ciroc is kicking in, so I fast-forward to “Can’t nobody hold us down” off the “NO WAY OUT ALBUM.
“Normally, when you hear a sampled song, it doesn’t reinvent itself; however, that’s part of the secret formula for Stevie J. Stevie J has an amazing ability to complement a track with an untraceable production approach and signature melodic finish.
The footprints of legends can only be followed and not duplicated, and that’s why his trademark sound will and must be publicly declared. I’m so amped right now!! Music is the soundtrack to life, and when “VICTORY” comes on, so many visions and thoughts are racing through my mind. I’m pacing through my condo rapidly like I’m in the ring of a championship fight.
Yo, the sun don’t shine forever
(You can turn the track up a little bit for me)
But as long as it’s here then we might as well shine together
(All up in my ears)
Better now than never, business before pleasure
(The mic is loud, but the beats isn’t loud)
P-Diddy and the Fam, who you know do it better?
Timeless music!! How did Stevie J know what to add or cut from this sample and then make it work? Success has different outlooks, but the ingredients are always consistent. Stevie J hears a sound only he can ascertain and develop. When he enters into a studio, the room feels, smells, looks, and resonates with an ambrosial atmosphere.
Every great performer, athlete, entertainer, and etc has this creative arena within their mind which enables supernatural results and unfathomable heights of a phenomenon. I just finished listening to “PAIN” and “Is This The End” blares through my speakers like a Hip Hop symphony. Ginuwine, Twista, & Puff Daddy own this track like it is a birthright, and it flows like a sonic motion picture in “HD”.
Who could make “death” sound so good? Stevie J!! The overall instrumentation and sonic delivery of this track are matchless in this current era. My adrenaline is wearing off a little, so as I sit by red berry Ciroc self-down, I flip over to the track “HONEY” (Bad Boy Remix). This universal track connects with every race, gender, and a hater! Jadakiss rips it from the beginning, Styles P supplies his signature gritty undertones, Mase provides the perfect god-flow finger roll, Puff is simply being Puff, Mariah is like cool whip.
She’s good on top of any dessert! Stevie J’s behind the scenes influence is visible throughout each verse, hook, string, chord, and baseline. Stevie J is James Worthy on the fast break, and nobody finishes better. Who can make a pop record cross over to streets better than Stevie J along with the Hitmen production team.
Stevie J understands the language of music, and that’s an inborn God induced gift. Possessing the ability to coordinate over 7 instruments simultaneously, manage sound, tones, voice inflection, intonation, and most importantly, artistic chemistry.
I stop and do a 100 quick push-ups to get my blood flowing and raise my adrenaline. I switch to “Mo Money More Problems” from the 10X platinum “Life After Death” album. Once Big said ”
Uh, uh, B.I.G., P O, P P A, no info, for the, DEA
Federal agents mad cause I’m flagrant
Tap my cell and the phone in the basement
My team supreme, stay clean triple beam lyrical dream
Man, need I say more about this classic record that Stevie J was a part of during the meteoric rise of Notorious B.I.G. How many producers/people would Sean Combs trust with the music and career of B.I.G?
How many producers possess the patience, instinct, and overall musical acumen to deliver for arguably the greatest MC of all time (Its always a toss-up between B.I.G & Tupac). Stevie J’s catalog is responsible for the biggest hits during an entire decade only and not to mention after the 90’s.
When I think about the song “I’ll be missing you” and the impact the record has made worldwide and continues to assist in healing the emotional wounds of people, I often wonder the metal state of mind he commanded during those studio moments.
Knowing that B.I.G. was recently buried and the entire world was waiting and needed this record for their eternal playlist. Stevie J, Puff, Faith, 112, & Sauce Money engineered one of the greatest songs of unity in the league of “We are the world.” Everyone in the world felt compelled to mourn and be inspired at the very exact moment.
Once again, the beautiful mind of Stevie J provided the finely detailed production assembly of emotion, chords, guitar strings, blissful sounds, and undertones of Faith and 112 and made history again. But, unfortunately, most people admire, detest, applaud, aspire to, and reject Stevie J every Monday night via VH1.
The television showcases a very small portion of his life. Stevie’s life is an authentic soundtrack, and we’ve only heard a few tracks of his life. In 2016, Stevie J will ascend to new heights and release new musical jewels for the world to love again.
Stevie J is mentally, physically, and spiritually in the best shape of his life, and he’s leaving no stone unturned. Multiple movies, TV shows, business ventures, and more occupy his current and 2016 roll-out calendar.
The infamous Stevie J bus has turned into super-ultra RV, and more people have come aboard for apparent reasons. But, when you closely examine his catalog, journey, sound, music production, Faith, and God-given talent, there can only be one title: “LORD OF THE STRINGS.”
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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