Author: Tampa Mystic

Get to know music artist Xica

INTERVIEWS

What’s going on Xica Simone, please introduce yourself.
My name is Xica (pronounced Sheeka)

Tell us about life growing up in your city.
I was born in Milwaukee Wisconsin and raised in Rockford Illinois. I am the baby of my family so I always felt like the only child. My sister and brother are 12 and 13 years older than me. I started singing in church and never stopped.

How did Music become your passion?
My older sister was a singer too! Unfortunately she was murdered in Rockford in 2008. She would always push me to sing anywhere at any time. Seeing her sing at her high-school graduation is what made me say “I wanna be on stage singing” because the crowd went crazy when she finished.

Tell us one or two of your musical influences.
I love neo soul and r&b music. A lot of my influences are old school like Anita Baker, Sade, Gap band, Chaka Khan, Erykah Badu and Mary J Blidge.

What’s the most recent single you released & where is it available?
My most recent singles are “Roc Wit Me” and “Session” these songs are available on all music platforms.

What are you doing to make sure that you stay engaged with your fans?
I call people supporters not fans but I try to stay active as I can and do live performances so I can actually be in person with people. I respond quickly to messages and I’m always open to collaborations.

Which of your songs mean the most to you and why?
I wrote a song called “tribute” in honor of my sister, dad and grandmother who have all passed away. Writing this song helped me with my grieving so it’s emotional but it was something I needed to get off my chest.

What is your creative process when making new music?
When I’m creating or writing it must be a zen type vibe and I have to really feel the music. My lyrics aren’t just word play, they are my feelings, emotions or true experiences.

Outside of music what else can we catch you doing?
Outside of music I’m an actress as well. I’ve done several plays, small commercials and videos. I am a mother and a wife before anything else. I also host different shows or events when given the opportunity.

What’s next for you?
What’s next for me is booking more events to get my music out more. I have some shows coming up in the summer that I’ll be doing. Follow my social media for more updates.

Where can we follow you on social media?
I am mostly on Facebook but I am also on tiktok, Instagram, reverbnation and YouTube.

Anybody you want to shout out?
I want to shout out my friend and advisor singer Tina Renee. She is my rider and she always makes sure I’m on point with my brand. I also want to shout out to my loving husband who is always there protecting and supporting my every move. He is my rock.

Get to know Wisconsin artist Big Guapo

INTERVIEWS

What’s going on Big Guapo, please introduce yourself.

My name is Big Guapo. I’m 24 years old and I am a rapper/producer from Beloit Wisconsin.

Tell us about life growing up in your city.
Growing up in Beloit was a little hard for our family I was raised by a single mother who worked 2 sometimes 3 jobs with two other siblings and lived 4 or 5 houses down from the corner of Randall and porter which wasn’t a bad place to live at first but eventually got worse over the years with drugs and gun violence.

How did Music become your passion?

Music became my passion when I was young my older brother used to freestyle with all his friends in our room and eventually I joined in when I was about 13 or 14 years old after that I would write poems to my mom for Mother’s Day and sometimes to some girls I dated in high school and everyone said that I was good so It became something fun to do like a hobby.

Tell us one or two of your musical influences.

Two artists that influenced me the most growing up were project pat and Young Dolph

What’s the most recent single you released & where is it available?

I just dropped Hot Sauce Chronicles last month it’s available on all platforms Spotify/YouTube/ and Apple Music

What is your creative process?

My process when it comes to making a new song is just to go in the Studio and speak my mind whatever I got going on at the time I put it in my music and just have fun with it

Outside of music what else can we catch you doing?

You can catch me at the trampoline park or something with my kids when I’m not with them I like to go to the gun range

What’s next for you?

I’m going to be dropping a collaboration album with my homie Crispy Chris soon. The project will be called Stepper Brothers all production will be done by me so keep an eye out for that.

Where can we follow you on social media?

@bigguap0608

Anybody want to shout out?

S/o to IL Boi for reaching out to me to perform at his birthday bash and s/o my brother Crispy Chris my cameraman.

Chicago artist Young Dashawn releases his latest single ‘Shake Dat’

MUSIC
Chicago-based artist Young Dashawn has recently released a new single titled “Shake Dat” produced by Hazimake. The song was released on November 18th, 2022, and has already been making waves on social media.
The motivation behind this song was to showcase his versatility as an artist. Young Dashawn believes that being able to switch up styles and vibes is essential in the music industry. He wanted to experiment with a sound that is different from his previous releases to see how it would be received by the industry and his fans.
“Shake Dat” is a radio hit according to Young Dashawn, and he is excited to see how far it can take him. The song is a fun and upbeat track that is perfect for the club. Young Dashawn’s vocals are smooth and complement the catchy beat produced by Hazimake. Overall, “Shake Dat” is a promising release from Young Dashawn, and we can’t wait to see what he has in store for us in the future.
Follow Young Dashawn on Instagram @no_capshawn

Get Familiar With Playas Club Music Group CEO Clay James, Hip-Hop’s Next Mogul

INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT

Clay James has been making a name for himself in the entertainment business for quite some time. James burst onto the scene and was immediately recognized because of his different style and sound. The southern playa rapper provided a since of nostalgia and a breath of fresh air in a game that is currently dominated by drill and trap artists. Due to the over saturation of drill and trap artists, James and his team are able to stick out like a sore thumb. Clay James released a series of mixtapes on Datpiff and LiveMixtapes to help build his buzz in Atlanta. These mixtapes have recently been re-released on all digital streaming platforms for your listening pleasure. This uniqueness of his music has garnered Clay James co-signs from rap legends Big Boi, Snoop Dogg, and Missy Elliot.

In 2013, Outkast member Big Boi was the first major co-sign James received, he became somewhat of a mentor to the rising Savannah artist, and they’re good friends til this day. In 2016, James performed at SXSW and caught the attention of some associates of Snoop Dogg. Snoop took a liking to James and gave him a record deal with Doggystyle Records. Since James was based out of the south he later became apart of Doggystyle South Records which was ran by CEO Papa Loc and President Snoop Dogg. After that, Clay James started his own label Playas Club Music Group which he released his first single ‘Can’t F Witchu’ and this song was tweeted out by hip hop legend Missy Elliott. In 2019, Clay James made an appearance in Missy Elliott’s ‘DripDemeanor’ music video. James did a freestyle over Missy’s ‘DripDemeanor’ beat which went viral on Instagram and was reposted by Missy.

Over the years Clay has garnered millions of streams and views on multiple platforms, headlined his own national tour with Dream More Events, made multiple appearances on MTV & BET, and received the award for ‘Best Rap Song’ by the Indie Music Channel for his song ‘Hallelujah’ produced by super producer 30 Roc. James has started to put more attention on building up his Playas Club Music Group imprint. The PCMG roster includes: King Elway, Charlise J, Big Smitty, Young Bo, Respekk, and Pimpin Pablo. PCMG just left from SXSW in Austin, Texas where multiple artists on the roaster including Clay James had stellar performances during the festival. King Elway had a stand out performance on Scotty ATL & OG Ron C’s ‘Young Legends & OG’s’ Stage at Soho Lounge. Charlise J left the room in awe during her performance on the ‘Blazy House’ Stage at Tellers sponsored by Ethika. Both Charlise J and King Elway were featured artists on ‘Clay James’ & Friends’ Stage alongside Harlem rising star Neek Bucks and Ethika Music’s latest signee Paperboy Casino.

Outside of music Clay James has ventured into acting. He recently had a role in ‘Out On A Lim’ starring The Wire’s Tray Chaney and Notorious’ Jamal Woolard. James is currently shooting a film with hip hop legend Webbie entitled ‘It’s A Cold Ass World’. PCMG’s Pimpin Pablo and Pimp Sweet Tooth also have roles in this movie alongs side Clay James and rising star Elijah Lamar. ‘It’s A Cold Ass World’ written by Tony Snow and directed by Drop And Roll Films is set to release this summer in select theaters and streaming platforms. Clay James and his business partner Pimp Sweet Tooth are seeing success in the fashion industry as well. Their new clothing brand ‘Playas Only Clothing Co.’ is becoming one of Atlanta’s favorite indie street wear brands. In a span of 5 months, the duo has sold over 1000 hats straight out the trunks of their cars and doing pop up shops. If you know James’ story then you know the fashion industry was the first place he saw major success as the Vice President of Bliss Skate Company alongside CEO/President Darius Graham. Clay James is also the co-owner of ‘Sound Lynk Studios’ with Roger Vidal and Chad Hampton in Decatur, Georgia. Sound Lynk is becoming a recording hot spot for upcoming and major talent in the Atlanta metro area. Current and past clients include: T-Rell, Gold Mouf, Akbar V, Translee, Robyn Hood, Money Mu, Runway Richy, Ali of the St. Lunatics, and more. Currently James is preparing to release his next single ‘How I Rock’ featuring Pimp Sweet Tooth and produced by Fki’s Saucelord Rich.

To stay in tune with Clay James and the entire Playas Club Music Group, follow @PlayasClubMG on all social media.

iamtheHOPEmusic ft. DJ GinJar – Strangers

MUSIC

If you pay attention it’s easy to identify the artists who were born for and are most comfortable on the stage. From the early age of five years old, iamtheHOPEmusic has been crafting and fine tuning her performance style, while releasing her own unique blend of Pop, Hip-Hop, and Rnb music over the last eleven years. She studies consistently in a committed effort to produce top-tier quality music, and to make every performances better than her last one! This determination has already afforded her a spot on the iTunes Hip-Hop/Rap Albums Chart with many more accomplishments to come!

She is continuing her musical endeavors with the release of her newest single entitled “Strangers featuring DJ GinJar”! Inspired EDM icons such as Loud Luxury, Zedd, The Chainsmokers, to name a few, iamtheHOPEmusic effortlessly taps into the Dance-Pop genre while capturing the essence of love being both found and lost. She loves the ability that this style of music gives her to speak on things in a fresh and relatable context, and to give her a listeners an opportunity to escape and decompress, when they need to.
Be sure to check out “Strangers featuring DJ GinJar” and stay tuned for a full-length album soon to come!

A big thanks goes to DJ GinJar, for all his help with everything from production, mixing and mastering, photography, editing, and even cover art. Additionally The rising artist gives her gratitude to everyone at the JaHMa management team for all of their hard work in preparing her music for proper release and distribution. Check out the single and other music from iamtheHOPEmusic here:

https://www.iamthehopemusic.com/

Oakland Rap Vixen Ms. Kash Drops New Single “Hold Me”

MUSIC
The Oakland Vixen is back with the new, and if you know anything about Ms. Kash, you know it’s nothing short of perfection. Fresh off a brief hiatus, Ms. Kash is back with her Saul-produced new single “Hold Me“. This is Kash’s first single since her 2021 viral hit “2FACED“. Check it out below.
 

Keep Up With Ms. Kash

World Wide Hustle – “F’em Up Fridays”

ALBUM

Worldwide Hustle LLC is a ground-breaking label based in Saint Louis that has made a name for itself by constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in hip hop. With their dynamic and innovative approach to music production, they have become one of the most respected labels in the industry today. The label dropped one of the most unique compilation EPs in history titled F’em Up Fridays. Founded and run by CEO @607unc, the EP is a testament to @607unc’s unwavering commitment to discovering and promoting the most talented artists in the game. With six different artists and six different tracks, this project is a true showcase of the label’s commitment to excellence and dedication to staying ahead of the curve in a constantly evolving industry.

Kaine 3k is a lyrical powerhouse with a commanding flow and razor-sharp lyrics. He has made a name for himself as one of the most promising young talents in hip-hop today. His contribution to the F’em Up Fridays EP, “Takin’Off,” is a hard-hitting track that kicks off the project on a high and showcases his unique style and uncompromising vision. An artist to watch in the coming years, and his presence on this EP is a testament to his undeniable talent.

The second track is an emotional rollercoaster that features Devoo who effortlessly blends trap, R&B, and soul into his music. His contribution to the F’em Up Fridays EP, is a smooth and melodic interpretation of emotion titled “Hard To Get Out” which tells a relatable story that will resonate with audiences across the globe cementing Devoo and Worldwide Hustle’s innovative spirit and unwavering dedication to the craft of making fearless hip hop music.

The midpoint of the EP is ushered in by the enigmatic King B with his banging “Knew Better” single. A melodic rapper with a unique cadence and immediately identifiable tonality and inflections and is quickly gaining a reputation for his hard-hitting lyrics and infectious beats. King B is an artist that is unafraid to take risks and push the envelope, and his presence on this project is a testament to his bold and uncompromising vision.

NWM Cee Murdaa and TG WOP are two powerhouses who joined forces on the smash hit “Head Tap,” in what can only be described as some of the most exciting hip-hop music around. Head Tap will have you bobbing your head in your car or at the club and NWM and TG’s unique chemistry and talent shine through in a very unexpected and serendipitous way.

The penultimate single is titled “Thx I Get” by the rising star known as Karma2zz. The rapper brings a raw and unfiltered approach to hip-hop, and will surely quickly gain a reputation as one of the most authentic voices in the game. His track on the F’em Up Fridays EP is a gritty and uncompromising look at life exhibiting an unwavering commitment to stay true to his roots.

The big finale doesn’t disappoint as the immovable character of Shawn Ferrari shows us his versatility with the track titled “Walk It”. Young Rari plays with the tempo and syncopation allowing his vocals and impeccable lyricism and storytelling to round off the project with introspective thoughts while remaining true to the roots and culture of Hip Hop.

Worldwide Hustle LLC is bringing the hottest talents in the country to the fore and the landscape of the hip-hop industry is about to change. Follow all these artists on IG as well as the visionary CEO @607unc

Connect:

@Kingb314
@Karma2zz_
@_mia_devoo_
@Nwmceemurdaa_
@Official.tgwop
@Shawnferrari_
@Kaine3k

De Banks Talks Music And More

INTERVIEWS

Please describe any unique characteristics of your company or its products and services that you feel would be newsworthy? 

My rap style is a unique sound in the Atlanta melodic scene and drill scene. I really talk about real life scenarios that’s happening to me and those around me or what I see majority of my lyrics is not cap I feel like that’s what make me stand out more

Who is your target audience? 

People that can relate that’s incarcerated or over came they form of struggle or currently going thru In other words I write a lot of pain music on uptempo beats

What separates you from your competition 

I don’t cap in my rap. I really have been through it all.

What motivated you to build your own brand?

The love I had for music my whole life: 50 cent, Lil Baby, Chief Keef, all the R&B and early 2,000s and late 90s music. I also loved the YMCMB era.

Where do you see yourself/your company 5 years from now?

Still rapping, perfecting my craft and at a superstar level.

How would you want the readers to benefit from learning about you? 

By paying attention to what I do and how I talk so they won’t make the same mistakes that I have made in the past. I’m from Queens NY, Springfield to be exact but I’m putting on for Allentown Pennsylvania.

Atlanta’s Pimpin’ Pablo Joins Playas Club Music Group

INDUSTRY SPOTLIGHT

Buzzing Atlanta rapper and actor Pimpin’ Pablo is the newest edition to the Playas Club Music Group roster which is the home to some of the dopest independent acts in the Southeast. A roster lead by rising stars Clay James and A Pimp Named Sweet Tooth, PCMG is also the home to: King Elway, Big Smitty, Young Bo, and R&B sensation Charlise J. Pimpin’ Pablo has made quite a name for himself in the city of Atlanta by putting out a slew of mixtapes and singles as well as his own movie entitled “Pimp Or Die”.

Speaking of movies, it’s rumored that he will make an appearance in “It’s A Cold Ass World” starring hip-hop legend Webbie, BMF’s Elijah Lamar, Clay James, and A Pimp Named Sweet Tooth. This movie is currently being shot in Atlanta and is set to release later this summer. Pablo is gearing up to drop his next single “That’s Cold” featuring Clay James and A Pimp Named Sweet Tooth. This track is produced by KJBeatz who is a long time collaborator of Pablo. “That’s Cold” will be featured on “Its A Cold Ass World” movie soundtrack and will release under Pablo’s Boss Status record label in conjunction with Playas Club Music Group.

Until he starts releasing his new music please check out Pimpin’ Pablo past works which are available on all digital streaming platforms and YouTube. He has music out featuring Skooly, Joe Green, Boosie, Young Dro, Pimpin Ken, and more. Catch Pimpin’ Pablo performing live March.15th at Haveli Lounge in Atlanta for the Playas Club Music Group Showcase powered by Dream More Studios at 8pm as well as SXSW during the Clay James & Friends stage March.18th at Soho Lounge in Austin, Texas 12pm.

Follow @OfficialPimpinPablo