hiphop Archives • The Artistry

April 2, 2021April 2, 2021

Meet The Other Shade

The Other Shade is a multifaceted artist in which he is known to be a talented R&B singer, a producer and owner of his own clothing brand. Pushing his artistry to become a notable powerhouse, the Virginia native is making a name for himself as he set the tone throughout the industry. Pyro Da Arsonist had the pleasure of interviewing him as you learn more on who is The Other Shade.

Pyro Da Arsonist: Please introduce yourself to our readers and tell us what do you do and where you are from.
T.O.S: Thank you for having me, I’m an R&B artist named T.O.S. Also known as The Other Shade. I own a clothing company called KALIFRAGALISTIC, and I also produce beats for movies and musical artists of different acclaimed levels.
Home used to be Fairfax, Virginia, in my early life I moved around different areas in the same county till I came to college in Morgantown at WVU.
Pyro Da Arsonist: Why did you choose The Other Shade as your stage name?
T.O.S: I remember I was making my first Instagram account in the middle of 7th grade and I wanted to make a name no one will think of but that represents me. To me the other shade offers colors and the shade between the lights of things. Basically I’m just always the other aspect.
Pyro Da Arsonist: What or who inspired you to become an artist?
T.O.S: Big L, Rick James, The Weeknd, Tupac, and Nas were the biggest influences when it comes to greats in music. I had two close friends that passed at the beginning and the end of 2020, those two were my most physical influences which is what pushed me to be the no look back artist I am today.
Pyro Da Arsonist: How would you describe yourself as an artist and describe your sound?
T.O.S: As an artist I see myself as very detailed and extremely personable. It’s always been hard to show my emotions but I found the easiest way to express is through music because I can only judge myself. The sound that comes out is very cinematic and has been compared to films more than day to day music.
Pyro Da Arsonist: What project are you currently working on and what kind of feedback have you received from your current single?
T.O.S: So I’m working on my studio album called “D’evils of beauty” that I’m recording at IMI studios throughout the month of April. My current single “All in Ones” will debut and mark the first release of the project. After submitting to music reviewers I’ve had nothing but positive feedback, the most negative comment was a better mix-down which IMI studios will undoubtedly take care of in April.
Pyro Da Arsonist: What is one of your most memorable performances and why?
T.O.S: I would say my very first one at 123 pleasant St. in Morgantown. It was a beat battle and we had a whole promo and everything for the area. It was my first taste of the life I always felt needed me.
Pyro Da Arsonist: Have you ever had a bad performance and if so how do you move past it without letting it affect your confidence?
T.O.S: My second beat battle had more of a randomness to it, my competitor had lost their father just a few days before so it kind of dulled the atmosphere. I noticed I felt sympathetic but I realized no matter what music is music and pushed forward.
Pyro Da Arsonist: In this age of social media what do you feel is more important in an artists success, talent, number of followers or an investor?
T.O.S: In this age I would say investors for sure, money makes the world work that much faster for you. Social media makes chances more available for the everyday artist but no matter what money comes into play at some point.
Pyro Da Arsonist: What words of wisdom would you give to those who want to start a career in music?
T.O.S: My best advice would be that if it’s been your gut feeling over multiple years and you keep ignoring it? Don’t. That’s how history gets lost. Those artist with a natural tug to them are the ones to watch out the most for because they’re usually behind the scenes till they realize they are the scene.
Thank you for sitting down with The Artistry and we wish you lots of success in all you do.

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January 16, 2021January 18, 2021

Hickman L.A.- Gaining “Momentum” in the Industry

Written by: Julz Mancini

Have you ever heard a music artist and felt their lyrics so deeply that you immediately knew they were destined to be a creative who reaches success? There are a plethora of talented artists, whom continue to struggle to pinpoint their unique sound and style; that struggle to let go and allow their gift to flow naturally. However, there are individuals who allow their soul to leak through their pen, blessing the paper with the privilege of grasping their captivating lyrics.

Hickman L.A. is an artist who spits fire, conveying his confidence, talent, and purpose. Through his music, Hickman makes a statement; he is here to make a stand as a prominent rapper in the music industry. Writing his first original, well-structured song at the age of fifteen, Hickman mesmerized his audience. As his talent progressed, so did the opportunities to stand in the spotlight. Touring and having the honor of blessing stages with heavy hitters such as Wale, Kid Ink, and Juicy J, to name a few, further opened Hickman’s eyes to the life he was meant to live.

During 2020, while the world was facing the most difficult of times, Hickman utilized the obstacles to create music. Releasing his album titled, “Momentum”, he was able to develop several songs gifting his fans with witty word play, punchlines, relatable topics, and catchy hooks. As I dove into the project, I was lured in by the first track titled, “Momentum”.

“Young grenade, I explode when I pull out the pen. No coke. I am dope flow hallucinogen.”

“Shooting lyrical harpoons. You riding waves. Now you looking like shark food. Screaming my accomplishments. But I ain’t gonna taunt you. I’m just gonna pray that the spirit of hustle haunts you. The win is mine. I’m taking spots. No sympathizing. I’m L.A. after the track, my momentum’s rising.”

“Momentum” is the perfect song to introduce the album as it displays all of the components this talented artist consists of. I couldn’t help but play the track multiple times as I was enchanted by Hickman’s lyricism and delivery.

The second song on the album titled, “Being Black” is one of my favorites due to Hickman’s openness and willingness to invite people into his world. As he describes the life he lives as a Black American, the listener can envision what it is like to walk in his shoes. For those who are culturally and racially diverse, “Being Black” will draw certain emotions from you allowing you to, not only listen to the lyrics, but deeply feel them. For the listeners who have ever wondered what it is like to be black in America, this track will surely open your eyes to the harsh realities the black community faces on a daily basis.

“Being black is being confused. Erase history so you don’t know you. Being black is living out every day mad. Working twice as hard just to have half. Being black is feeling like a lab rat. Tuskegee experiment; google that. Being black is scrolling through your T.V. and you don’t ever see your skin tone. In your own residence still not at home. Black America’s a warzone.”

“She Wanna” is a song for the ladies. Hickman lures in female listeners with this track as he shows his understanding and sexy side. This song provides the listener with another side of the talented rapper.

“I can tell you real by your conversation. You be going through a lot. I applaud your patience. Bit her lip so I know she want that penetration. And trust I can keep a secret. Baby, I ain’t gon’ say sh*t.”

As I continued through “Momentum”, I came across the song titled, “Living Dreams”. This track shared a very strong message. As the listener embraces the lyrics, they will notice that Hickman is willing to work hard to accomplish his goals. He does point out, however, that many want the end result but are not willing to trudge through the mud to obtain it.

“Everybody wanna ball. Everybody want the green. Everybody want the palace gates. Everybody wanna succeed. But don’t nobody wanna crawl. They just in it for the greed. We ain’t in it for the accolades. We just out here living dreams.”

Hickman certainly paints a vivid picture with his lyrics portraying how real, assertive, and unwavering he truly is. As my journey through “Momentum” came to an end, the song “Better with Time” began to play. During this song, it became noticeable that Hickman is very observant of others, learning strengths and weaknesses of his opponent as well as himself.

“I’m from L.A. Forever CA my state. Ya’ll n**** too reactive. I watch and calculate. Ya’ll hotheads, proper and easy like paper plates. The way I apply pressure, no wonder why ya’ll n***** break. You might overlook me but you’ll never overcook me.”

“Momentum” is a clear sign that Hickman L.A. has gained momentum and has no plans of stopping. Through his lyricism and creativity, it is obvious that he will most definitely obtain the highest peaks within the music business. I am eager to see what his next project will entail. To get better acquainted with Hickman L.A. and his music, please click on the link below!

CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW AND STREAM HICKMAN L.A.

January 11, 2021January 11, 2021

Brxtn and Marc Dinero Collaborate For Upcoming single “Timid”

Written by: Julz Mancini

A new single is about to emerge from the independent music vault. When a new song is brought to my attention, I am always eager to listen, hopeful to hear something with edge; something different. It is known that hip hop and R&B are the perfect couple when it comes to song presentation. Both genres connect with one another similar to two inseparable soulmates. Reflect back to the 90’s and early 2000’s; the days when music grabbed your soul. Now, add the musical sounds of today’s industry to that image; perfection!

“Timid” by Brxtn featuring Marc Dinero is a captivating new song filled with heart touching lyrics, melodies, and word play. Both artists make it apparent that they have put everything into this enchanting track. The song begins with a piano, drawing in the listener as they are unsure of what to expect next. Brxtn begins singing the catchy hook, allowing the audience to sing along with him.

“Been trying to remedy, remedy ohhh, to make you feel better. Quit moving timidly, timidly my love cause I’ll love you better.”

While Brxtn conveys his unique sound, I also captured a glimpse of heavy hitters such as Chris Brown. Not only does Brxtn sing, but he also raps…another surprise within this hit song. Being dually talented will surely assist this artist in reaching success as he will be deemed a double threat in the industry. As Brxtn rapped, I held onto every lyric:

“I’d rather roll around with you than watch some Netflix. Spend a band and put your name up on my necklace. Used to have the block locked down like it’s Tetris.”

As the song continued to play, it became obvious that the artists were attempting to persuade their love interests to leave the men they are currently with so they can experience what a real man is. Marc Dinero does an amazing job at portraying empathy towards his love interest while describing what it would be like if she were in a relationship with him.

“You may not be that outspoken. I see your emotions. You’re mentally tired. But please let me show you that ni*** you with…He don’t know you and he cannot meet your desires. Really you know that I’m that ni***. Put me in position to be your provider.”

Brxtn and Marc Dinero may have a hit on their hands! “Timid” is everything a listener seeks in a song; relatable, catchy, melodic, and touching. This is certainly one of the best tracks I have set ears on recently. I cannot wait for you to hear it! “Timid” is due to be released on January 29th! Be sure to click on the links below to be certain you don’t miss the premier of the single!

Brxtn on Spotify
Follow Brxtn on Instagram!
Marc Dinero on Spotify
Follow Marc Dinero on Instagram!

January 5, 2021January 7, 2021

Gramzunkut- Creating Music Through Adversity

Written by: Julz Mancini

Facing numerous adversities throughout one’s life can either create a downward spiral effect or a flourishing journey of success. The person who utilizes these adversities in a positive light develops thick skin, a head strong attitude, and an unstoppable work ethic in which catapults their drive to achieve their goals.

Growing up in the streets of New York City, Gramzunkut was faced with many adversities in which molded him into the successful artist and entrepreneur he is today. It was during the most difficult times that Gramzunkut sought after music to release and share the harsh realities he faced throughout his life. For three decades, this talented artist has persistently strived to lure in listeners with his raw and intransigent lyrics. During the current times we are all facing, the truth behind struggle and sacrifice is what many listeners seek. As the listener peels back the layers of this creative, they will realize the artist’s transparency in his music is an open invitation into his life.

Through hard work, sacrifice, and consistency Gramzunkut has had the opportunity of being heard on two of New York City’s major Hip Hop radio stations; Power 105.1 and Hot 97.1. Being featured in prominent publications such as “The Source” and “Hip Hop Weekly” assisted Gramzunkut in reaching larger audiences and acquiring additional accolades as well.

Gramzunkut recently released “Sin” featuring Mikey Polo, a catchy track from beginning to end. “Sin” reveals the struggle the artists have faced in life while currently fighting to avoid drama, haters, and a repeat of the past. The hook is catchy, allowing the listener to sing along with the lyrics while fully embracing the meaning behind the story.

“N***** is hatin on me. N***** hatin for no reason. I watch how I move so I won’t get caught up in the sh*t I keep hearing.”

As I moved through Gramzukut’s music catalog, I came across the song, “Lyrical Therapy”. Beginning with a single guitar and a male vocalist, the track immediately introduces a different sound to the listener. “Where do you go to, when all of the world is crashing around you. I think that I know you. The look on your face, I finally found you.” This song paints the perfect picture of Gramzunkut’s trials and tribulations.

“When thugs die there’s blood on the pavement. Moms tearing. Flowers on the casket. What you kill my n**** for? Choked him out. Took his flesh but his words live on. Eric Garner, you the heart of the game. We all gon’ die, we bleed from similar veins.”

“Lackin’” featuring K.O. is another song that lures in the listener. With a combination of raw lyrics, unique delivery, and great production, this song has a catchy swag that will surely have listeners moving to the beat while reiterating the hook. Gramzunkut describes how he makes his moves while making it apparent that he does not mingle with those who do not possess similar traits.

Gramzunkut has made it very clear that it is possible for an artist to remain relevant in the music industry while still remaining true to one’s foundation. Experimenting with different sounds, delivery methods, and production, Gramzunkut has succeeded in providing his audience with a plethora of options as evidence by his profound catalog. He is a prime example of a consistent music artist. He continuously releases content, allowing his listeners to remain engaged throughout his musical journey. To become better acquainted with Gramzunkut, click on the links below!