3x Grammy Nominated Producer James Worthy Reemerges With Edgy New Song, “In The Dark”

Written by: Julz Mancini

When coming in contact with successful musicians, they typically pinpoint several memories, accolades, and performances that helped catapult their drive to pursue a career in the music industry. For James Worthy, a huge turning point in his life was having the honor of meeting the “King of Pop” himself, Michael Jackson. Webster Hall, a well known venue in NYC, was where the two met for the first time. James recalls Michael Jackson stating, “You are going to be influential in the entertainment industry one day.” This phrase changed everything for the talented artist as he utilized it as the driving force behind his passion. 

The Queens, New York native was surrounded by the diverse sounds throughout the birth place of hip hop. Once James’ interest was sparked, he made certain to study well known musicians and song writers. As he attentively focused on the structure of songs, he soon blossomed as a producer and songwriter with his own unique sound. 

James is the perfect example of an artist who never gives up. Due to his determination, talent, and intelligence related to, not only music, but business, James Worthy embedded his mark in the music industry as one of the most sought after producers and songwriters. His resume and discography are impeccable, portraying his versatility in production, style, and artist selection. Some of your favorite artists have had the honor of working with James Worthy such as, Justin Bieber, Bobby Brown, Whitney Houston, Fetty Wap, J. Holiday, Drag-On, Kurupt, Robin S., to name a few. 

Not only does the prominent producer create music for others. He has continued to work diligently in the studio on his highly anticipated debut album, “Once a Fairytale” due to be released this summer. The first official single from this amazing album is “In the Dark” which is due to be released on April 2nd. The song will surely lure in listeners as James displays his sexy side. “In the Dark” is a metaphorical term within the song, as James speaks on fictional and non-fictional ways of making love.

During a conversation with James, I learned of his inspiration behind his upcoming single. He stated, “In the Dark is more of a spin off of my last single “Goldmine”. It basically talks about spicing things up sexually.” The distinguished artist mentioned that the album “Once a Fairytale” is a theme based project that is more musical and eclectic than any of his previous projects. As we continued our discussion, James elaborated on his creative process while in the studio. “I usually start with melodies then turn them into words. Perfecting the production comes last and a lot of times the content is from real experiences.” 

I have mentioned several times throughout the articles I have written how important consistency is. James Worthy, a three time Grammy nominated musician also shared some words of wisdom to aspiring artists. “Always keep integrity within your craft no matter what. Consistency and passion always win. Continue to work hard at it.”

James Worthy has created a longevous career for himself in music. It’s not every day you come in contact with someone whose passion seeps, not only through their art, but through their entire being. To truly make it in anything you do, you must breathe your calling. James Worthy has made it crystal clear that music is everything to him and his audience apprehensively awaits the release of his new single “In the Dark”. Click on the links below to get better acquainted with James Worthy and his gift. 

CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW JAMES WORTHY ON INSTAGRAM!

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT HIS OFFICIAL WEBSITE!

CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW HIM ON TWITTER!

CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW JAMES ON FACEBOOK!

CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW JAMES ON LINKEDIN!

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.

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!

Stigity- From Behind The Lense To the Spotlight

Written by: Julz Mancini

It is no secret that we are all products of our environment, to a degree. The people, sounds, predicaments, lifestyles, and even music that we are surrounded by on a daily basis directly affect and mold us into the individuals we eventually become. For some, growing up in hostile and dangerous environments prove problematic as they struggle to thrive and blossom in deteriorating circumstances. Many whom have grown up in these conditions have experienced the revolving door of incarceration. And some have prevented this fate from occurring by never crossing that marginal line. Stigity, a New York native and music artist, is one of those people.

As gun shots, violence, and struggle awaited Stigity on the other side of the door, he managed to wiggle out of the grasp of the streets and into college. During his college years, he became a cameraman in which assisted him in obtaining opportunities to work with some of the rap industry’s heavy hitters such as, A$AP Mob, Vado, Fred Da Godson, and Pro Era. Having the ability to watch such amazing talent through his lens helped Stigity realize that he belonged in the spotlight.

Hard times enhanced Stigity’s capability to write. With his refusal to succumb to depression at an all-time high, Stigity turned to music to release his inner demons which eventually landed him in the studio to record. Trading in his camera for the microphone, Stigity has been working diligently to provide his audience with music that demonstrates his life prior to college and currently. From love, struggle, and everything in between, Stigity is able to create vivid pictures of his life through his lyrics.

As I streamed the songs within Stigity’s catalog, I came across songs that were both appeasing to my ears in addition to being applicable to real life situations many experience.

“These hard times got me stressing. I’m just tryin to find a better way. These hard times was a blessing. So I’m tryin to stay up out the way. These hard times was a lesson.”

Everyone needs a song that brings your current predicament to the forefront, forcing you to face it head on without interruption. A smooth and heartfelt beat, with simple yet strong lyrics maintains the listener’s attentiveness, eventually singing along with the catchy hook.

As I continued to search through Stigity’s music catalog, I came across another catchy track titled, “Keep It Pushin”. With an aggressive delivery and another appealing hook, this song hits the listener hard.

“Put on for my city, I run through these streets and I grind every day. Came from the block with the realest gorillas. We up in these streets and we grind every day. Call the promoter. He got the connect. Cut me the check.”

Stigity recently released a single titled, “Mackin’ Like a Villain” showing his audience that he is coming for the kill, relentless and ready for what’s to come. To get better acquainted with Stigity and his music, click on the links below!

Follow Stigity on Instagram!

https://www.instagram.com/Stigity__/

Check out Stigity’s website below!

http://www.stigity.com/

Stream Stigity’s music on Soundcloud!