Category: Featured Highlights

Featured Highlights is another way to recognize the many talented artists, influencers and entrepreneurs across the globe.  If you are interested in being featured on our website, feel free to contact us.

Email: TheArtistryEnt@gmail.com

Subject: Featured Highlights

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DJ YUNG NAS on The Rise.

Naseem Johnson a.k.a. DJ Yung Nas is a Disc Jockey & Producer from Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania. Born on March 4th, 1999. Nas started DJing at the age of 17 at house parties before eventually moving up to DJing at college parties and clubs. He has DJed for several internet radio stations which include Philly Jamz 95.3 FM,
NYC’s Way Up FM &  Chicago’s Fusion Radio. Getting his inspiration from DJ Diamond Kutz & DJ Camilo he practiced his dj scratches everyday until he felt he was ready to post his videos on social media. He now posts his DJ videos on Instagram & Tik Tok and currently DJ’s for The Lion 90.7 FM WKPS while attending Penn State University to pursue his career as a TV & Radio Personality.

Below you will find my interview with DJ Yung Nas and learn about what inspires him, his techniques as a DJ and more.

Pyro Da Arsonist: You were inspired by DJ Diamond Kutz & DJ Camilo. What was about them that inspired you?

DJ Yung Nas: What inspires me about DJ Diamond Kutz & DJ Camilo is the way they DJ. I like their style. DJ Diamond Kutz plays music at a fast tempo giving it energy, making it more
hype. DJ Camilo is different, he makes every song sound fire. He also doesn’t stay in
one genre, he’s very flexible with his music. He plays Hip hop, Afrobeats, Latin,
Reggaeton, etc. Just listening to them a lot inspired me to become a DJ and create my
own style.

Pyro: Mashups are not easy to get right so what is your thought proces when creating a mashup and do you mashup different genres of music together?

Dj Yung Nas: When making mashups, the first thing I do is look for a good instrumental or acapella. I do this just by scrolling through my library and listening to songs. Once I do that, I check the bpm just to make sure the sounds are not far off so that I’m able to mix them. After that I then practice the mashup of how I want the mix to go and then once I’m ready, I
begin to make the video. I have not attempted to mash up different genres of music
together but I am definitely planning on making one in soon.

Pyro: What artists would you like to produce for and why??

DJ Yung Nas: An artist that I would want to produce is Dababy. I like his flow on his music. I think he is
a unique rapper and it would just be a crazy experience to produce for someone like him.

Pyro: Do you think at this point in your career you can handle the pressure of DJing for a station like Hot 97 or Power 105? If so how would you convince them to hire you?

DJ Yung Nas: At this point, I am very confident that I can DJ for radio stations like Hot 97 and Power 105 because I have experience DJing On-Air and I also play the same music as them. I am currently DJing for The Lion 90.7fm Wkps every Friday at 11pm so I can finally say that I have experience DJing on local radio. Me actually going to power 105 or Hot 97
would mean a bigger audience. How I would convince them to hire me is that I would say
I have DJed on radio stations before, Two internet ones and one local station, I’ve also
worked at Cumulus Media in my hometown, and my mixes have gained a lot of attention
on mixcloud and soundcloud so I’m pretty sure if they actually listen to mixes they will
enjoy them.

Pyro: What would you say makes you stand out as a DJ?

DJ Yung Nas: What makes me stand out as a DJ is my progress from when I first started. I have been a DJ for sometime now but I have not been uploading my dj skills until the summer of 2019.I always felt that I wasn’t ready because when I watch other DJs, their scratch skills and mixing techniques were far too advanced and that its not possible for me to get to that level in my career especially on a Pioneer SB2. What made me change my mind was that I didn’t have the finances to get turntables and a high quality mixer so I decided that I was just going to have to make it work with what I have until I was ready to
upgrade. My first couple of videos I was doing regular transitions and scratches, now I
am doing combos and mashups. I have progressed so much within that time and I
believe that’s what makes me stand out.

Pyro: What do you feel about those who say that Controller DJ’s aren’t as skilled as Turntable and Record DJ’s?

Dj Yung Nas: People who say that DJs who use DJ controllers are not as skilled as DJs who use vinyl are crazy. What some people need to realize is that it’s not about what equipment you have it’s how you use it. All equipment has its pros and cons. I have watched youtube
videos of people making insane routines on DJ controllers and vinyl. Both can get the
job done if you practice enough. Now Is it hard to scratch and do certain things on a
controller than vinyl, maybe. It may require a lot of practice and it’s possible but that’s not
the case. Everyone has their own style of doing things the way they want too and that’s
all that matters.

Pyro: If you had a chance to put together a track with 3 major artist who would be on the record and why?

DJ Yung Nas: 3 Major artists I would choose for a record would be Drake, Young Thug and Quavo. I chose them because anything that they drop especially as a single is a banger or
something people can vibe too.

Pyro: What sets you apart from your competition?

DJ Yung Nas: What sets me apart from my competition is my creativity and passion. When I make videos I try to add at least one new thing to the video whether it’s a scratch or transition method, I never try to do the same technique every video. I may have multiple videos with the same concept but in each of them there are different ways of how I do things, whether it’s the beginning, the middle or end of a routine, I try not to do the same thing. Another is the fact that I’m doing these routines on a small DJ controller. Some people think that you need turntables to make cool dj routines for Instagram and by me
uploading my videos to instagram, I’m trying to eliminate that. I had no training only
youtube and it took time for me to progress and it can be the same for everybody else if
they put their mind to it.

Pyro: When it comes to your music library, how do you go about building it? Is there a research involved or is it off ear?

DJ Yung Nas: When I build my music library, it’s 50/50 research and off ear. The Research part is me looking to see who is dropping music every Friday at 12, another is going through my record pool seeing what is downloaded a lot and what is trending. Every song that I
download I listen to it first because I want to make sure it fits with the type of music I
play. I always ask myself, “will this keep the party going or will it die down if I play this”? I
can’t just download every song because at that point i’m just wasting storage for songs
that i’m only going to place once. So it’s very important to know your taste in music and
what you want to play.

Thank you for sitting down with us. We appreciate your time. 

Follow, Subscribe and check out DJ Yung Nas mixes below

Social Media Links

Instagram.com/djyungnas

Twitter.com/djyungnas

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Getting to Know Chrystyal Thoughts

We’re sitting down with the winner for The Artistry raffle Christyal Thoughts who is an artist and producer who graduated with a audio engineering degree from SAE. The Bronx native started writing music at the tender age of 11 years old and by the age of 16 she had joined a female rap group and started doing talent shows. After graduating she also started producing for local artists. In 2017 she dropped her first project IMF 1.
Christyal lost her mother to substance abuse when she was 3 years old and then was adopted and grew up in Bronx River Projects and she has shown that you can chase your dreams and persevere no matter what is thrown your way.

Christyal thank you for joining us.

Pyro Da Arsonist: What or who inspired you to start writing and making music?

Christyal thoughts: Listening to music such as Tupac, Bone thugs in harmony, No Limit Records and Cash Money records…really West Coast music inspired me to start writing and making music. They didn’t play it on the radio much and at the time I was lucky if they played Tupac so I went out buying a lot of West Coast music.

Pyro: Has the loss of your mother at a young age and being adopted affected your music style?

Christyal: Yes. It helps me to stay grounded, real and connected to my true self and inner feelings. Outside of my music career, I work with people who have gone through the same things that I have. I can relate so I put it in my music.

Pyro: How did you joining a female rap group come about and what happened to the group?

Christyal: I started at a young age 16. We all grew up in the same neighborhood in the Bronx and one of my best friends at the time had an Uncle who made beats so every weekend we were writing songs and preparing for a talent show. When I turned 18 back in 1999 we were suppose to sign to our Manager but we were getting older and decided to just go our own ways and live life. As far as the group we are all still friends to this day. Those were good times.

Pyro: Do you have a preference between making your music and producing for other artist?

Christyal: The end goal is to get a Publishing Deal and produce for other Artists but right now I am learning what it is like to be an Artist and i’m going through the process. It’s more to it than just making a song.

Pyro: What kind of feedback have you gotten from your music and how has it affected you?

Christyal: I have gotten feedback from my music such as it’s different and it sounds very therapeutic. I get feedback that i’m talking real talk and they can relate. Song wise people like MJ Bad, Rebellious, In along time, Cruel World…… its a few.

Pyro: Lastly what is your ultimate goal and where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?

Christyal: My Ultimate goal is to do shows and still get beats and song placements for other artists.

Thank you for taking the time to sit down with us and we wish you much success in everything you do.

Linktree: linktr.ee/ChristyalThoughts
Website: christyalthoughts.com
Twitter: @crisuptownbxoct

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristyalThoughts

Check out her Music Video 1981

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Notes 82- “Watch the View” Takes Fans On a Journey

Written by: Julz Mancini

It is seldom that we come across rap artists whose artistry shines differently than most. Many times we hear music that doesn’t have a clear message, leaving us questioning what the purpose of the song is. Today’s music is superficial, lacking true depth, intriguing lyrics, and obvious purpose. It is during difficult times like our society is experiencing, that a lot individuals yearn for music that soothes their anxiety and depression; music that speaks to them on a different level. Notes  82, a New York City native, has composed the perfect formula for someone who seeks true hip hop music. He takes story-telling and lyricism to the highest peaks allowing his listeners to watch the view from a perfect standpoint.

“The game is for the taking so your spot is just a myth. Brooklyn see we did it blue, yankee fitted drip. Welcome, watch the view. Thanks… for tuning in.” A proper introduction is a necessity. If you have never had the pleasure of listening to Notes 82, the intro to “Watch the View” will certainly give you a taste of his style, talent, and preparation for the songs that follow.

Throughout the song, “Shining Star”, Notes 82 explains how his talent supersedes other artists you have grown accustomed to hearing. “You know I am the best. I would never tell you lies. The bars, the hooks, the cadence in my rhymes.”  His confidence is contagious, luring in the listener and maintaining their focus for the duration of the song.

The track, “No Justice No Peace” is the perfect song to set your ears on. With relentless and systemic racism continuing to remain prominent in our society, Notes 82 delivered his lyrics with such passion and intent causing the listener to stand up elevating their fist in the air.

“Power to the people. I need y’all to listen real close to this. They’ll never catch me slipping. Hands in the air, these cops is really on a mission. Cams on the dash. Don’t give a f*ck about your feelings. Stand your ground. You see that sh*t is meant to kill us. Power to the people.”

Notes 82 utilizes his voice to speak on behalf of those who have found themselves victimized directly related to racism. He consistently displays his fearlessness and desire for change. It takes pure talent to have the ability to affect an audience with words. Notes 82 succeeded in doing so with “No Justice No Peace”.

There is nothing like experiencing love. But to experience love in the city that never sleeps hits a bit differently. “City love in the making, that’s just history. City love is the greatest; call it victory.” Notes 82 describes a love like no other in his song, “City Love”.  It is rare to listen to a man describe a woman, a love, in such a way that a female can envision and feel the love as if he is speaking directly to her. The hook is catchy, soulful, and soft…the perfect addition to the track.

As the album floods my speakers, “Perseverance”, touched my heart.

“I was forced to leave the city. Had to find my way. And my kids need a father that will keep them safe. And my queen keeps me solid when my mental breaks. Put together, see forever it’s a Nipsey race. Look they wanna see you win. That’s a big mistake. Look winning’s still a drug some will never taste. Will you break or just fold when the pressure’s on? Lots of evil in this world. Lots of losses too. Time to build your foundation with them solid troops. Go to war with yourself because the problem’s you.”

Notes 82 explains that he has a purpose in this world. He describes his losses that pushed him to thrive and overcome all obstacles that have stood in his way. His resiliency shines through each lyric he recites, touching the hearts of everyone who has ever been through hard times. This song is definitely one you want to stream; a guaranteed favorite.

As my ears continue to be blessed by Notes 82’s music, I came across the song, “Fly High”. This track brought out so much emotion as I listened. Painting a picture of his parents and lastly drawing a masterpiece of his own life while encouraging his audience to spread love and success.

“All alone in the cold world, forced his hand. Just a black man, gifted, needed purpose and he was only 17 on his own my man. See his first time free from all the segregation. Momma told him take a chance; teach the congregation. Didn’t notice at the time God was motivation. He would calmly come to God become a faithful servant.”

Have you ever read a book in which enabled to you to visualize the story as if it were happening right in front of you? The way Notes 82 transformed this song into a story, allowed me to form a motion picture right before my eyes.

Song after song, I listened attentively as Notes 82 delivered his masterpiece. The songs I have presented in this article are just touching the surface. I felt it imperative to leave you wanting to hear more from this amazing artist. “Watch the View” was strategically formatted to take the listener on a journey. Notes 82 is a rare talent that one I know you will become a fan of.

To become better acquainted with Notes 82, click the links below!

https://www.facebook.com/NotesEightyTwo/

https://www.instagram.com/notes82_/

https://www.twitter.com/NotesView33/

https://songwhip.com/notes82/watch-the-view

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AZIA- Multifaceted Brooklyn Artist Takes The Spotlight

Written by: Julz Mancini

Having the ability to develop one’s self into a quadruple threat in the entertainment business creates a recipe for success. As each ingredient is added, it helps increase the probability of making a name for yourself in an over-saturated industry. Mastering each talent you intend to showcase to the world is imperative, as it portrays your diligence, work ethic, and capabilities. When striving for the spotlight, executives seek to find the “it” factor; a marketable and unique individual who has the potential to rise to the top. We have been able to witness superstars such as Beyonce and Jennifer Lopez effectively dabble into singing, acting, fashion, cosmetics, and more. It is not surprising that recording artist, Azia, is heading in the same direction as the superstars mentioned. She is reaching heights that many can only dream of.

Usually the love for music flourishes throughout the duration of a person’s childhood. As a teenager, Azia strategically created a show on cable access T.V. titled, “Flex in Brooklyn” while also hosting parties that quickly became popular. As her buzz grew louder, the opportunities started to knock at her door. As a natural beauty, it was only a matter of time before the masses approached her to be featured in videos, television, etc. Her video credits include, “Panda” by Desiigner, “Change Your Mind” by Trey Songz, and “Pick It Up” by Famous Dex, to name a few. Azia’s energy, beauty, and talent glowed on camera allowing for more prospects to pour in. Kanye West’s “Yeezy Season” and Nike’s “Caribbean Pack” were her next ventures. Due to the amount of exposure Azia was receiving, it was the perfect time to allow the world into her sanctuary of music. She was able to prove herself, not only as model, but also as an artist when she released her debut album, “The Audacity”.

As Azia continued to soar through the entertainment world, she became the star of BET’s “Hustle in Brooklyn”. Coming from Brooklyn herself, it was a perfect match and helped her become a well-known socialite in the business. In addition to being a Brooklyn native, Azia is Haitian and Trini all of which she has showcased in her music and videos. In her single, “Pull Up”, she stayed true to her roots grasping the attention of her fans as they watched and listened. Azia recently released her single, “Eat It Up”. With sexy lyrics and unique word play, this catchy song is certainly a fan favorite. Not only is the song superstar quality, but the music video brings the viewer to Azia’s neck of the woods. As she dances on an ice cream truck, chills in the park, and flaunts her beauty and sex appeal, Azia portrays her true self. “Thirty-one flavors, never know what you can get. I got thick ones, slim ones, tall ones, red hair, brown hair, blonde hair, all fun. Now, how many licks does it take to get a stick…” “Eat It Up” definitely has a fun and flirty vibe that causes the listeners to seek more content from Azia.

While navigating through her website, iamazia.com, I noticed Azia is not only a model, recording artist, and popular socialite, but also a designer. She owns “Brownie’s Couture”, a cosmetic line in which offers lip gloss of many shades, enhancing the beauty of her customers. To ensure her customers will be happy with the products, Azia offers them free samples.

It is apparent that Azia is multi-talented and is eager to continue her journey in the entertainment business. With her fan base increasing and the opportunities piling up, she isn’t going anywhere. Her fans anticipate the release of her upcoming project titled, “A Whole Mood” due to be available this fall. Azia is someone you want to keep an eye on as the sky is the limit for her. She is a force to be reckoned with which is obvious with all of her accomplishments.

Click on the links below to follow Azia and her journey!

https://www.iamazia.com

https://www.instagram.com/azia.iam/

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DJ Big Inf- An Asset To The Music Industry

Written by: Julz Mancini

When the fans of a singer or rapper witness the artist’s career blossom and unfold, they are typically focused on the artist alone. Not realizing that behind the scenes there are many significant pieces to the puzzle, the fans see the artist as an entire package; music, style, interviews, touring, money, etc. One key component we mustn’t forget is the DJ. When artists are seeking a large audience to listen to their music, the DJ is the bridge that connects the two. Whether in the club or on the radio, it is imperative to learn the importance of the DJ’s role in the music industry and build relationships that will result in longevity. One of the greatest feelings as an artist is to see a crowd in the club moving in unison to your song. To hear your song hit the air waves and receive honest feedback is also an indescribable experience. With an outstanding resume, DJ Big Inf has certainly left his foot-print in the music industry as a major element for mainstream and independent artists.


In the beginning of his career, DJ Big Inf was given the opportunity to be M.O.P.’s tour DJ in 2007. It was throughout the duration of his G-Unit deal that DJ Big Inf toured the world with heavy hitters such as 50 Cent, M.O.P., Mase, Lloyd Banks, Tony Yayo, Spyda Loc, Mobb Deep, and Olivia. While touring, he worked diligently on two collaboration mixtapes with M.O.P. titled, “All Out War” Pt. 1 and Pt.2, which were released on all major platforms and Datpiff. Due to the success of both mixtapes, another opportunity came forward. DJ Big Inf secured placement on “Salutes The St. Marxsman”, M.O.P.’s album via E1 (formerly Koch Records). The “Project Revolution Tour” was next on Big Inf’s agenda. During this tour, he was able to DJ for Snoop Dogg, Ghost Face Killer, Linkin Park, and Korn. With the tour coming to an end, Big Inf planned to work on his new project, “Better Dayz Ahead” featuring artists such as, Camp Lo, Mims, Sadat X, AG of “Showbiz & AG”, DJ Doo Wop, and Snaggapus of the well-known, “Bounce Squad”.


With so many accolades to be proud of, Big Inf didn’t stop there. Internet Radio was his next endeavor. “Moscato Sundays” was a radio show created by Big Inf and his partner “Google the Name”. The show became a success with a two year run. Although the show was a victory, it abruptly ended due to contractual divergences. When one door closes, another opens. As the show came to an end, Big Inf was approached by M-Reck and Doggie Diamonds of “Forbez DVD”.


Becoming the resident DJ of “Forbezdvd/DoggieDiamonds’ No Filter” show on DTF Radio, was the next prospect presented to Big Inf. He had become a fundamental constituent to the team for five years. During this time, Big Inf continued to network and build connections while simultaneously gaining exposure in the New York hip-hop scene. In 2015, while continuing his hard work as a DJ, Big Inf stepped into a different industry to portray his skills as an actor. He displayed his talents in the urban drama, “True Story” while also obtaining placement on the soundtrack with his song, “Sucka Mcs”.


After Big Inf’s five year loyalty to DTF Radio, he released his next Album, “New Industry/The Playlist”. This project featured Dave East, Ali Vegas, Tribeca, Christion Dior, J-Hood, Trife Diesel from The Wu-Tang Clan, and General Steele of the rap duo “Smiff ‘N Wesson”. After touring the world, releasing multiple projects, and teaming up with others in radio, Big Inf made the life changing decision to create his own platform. Newindustrymusicgroup.com was created to display the talent of rappers worldwide and is very unique compared to other outlets for artists. Big Inf is passionate about, not only sharing music with his audience, but assisting artists in reaching people at a greater scale and building their fan bases. With his love for music and determination to shine the spotlight on talented creators, Big Inf became a curator and owner of a playlist titled, “Music To Rep NY” on Musicto.com. Making it his goal to have several ways to reach the masses, Big Inf has become the owner of a radio show on “Freshest FM” called, “New Industry Mondays”.

Although he is a busy DJ whom wears many hats, he continues to release projects for his fans. Big Inf has recently released the following singles: “Money Call” featuring Sonny Cheeba of Camp Lo, “I believe” featuring Mic Handz and Ali Vegas (produced by Fantom of the Beat), and a remix by famed Canadian producer, Ak Rockefeller, to his previously released song, “Strike Gently”.


While reading this article, the reader will notice that success does not come without hard work and dedication. It is crucial for you to acknowledge that you are capable of anything as long as you are willing to sacrifice, invest, and never give up. Big Inf has displayed pure passion and impeccable work ethic throughout his career, all attributes that any successful individual possesses, a perfect example for the reader to become acquainted with. Follow DJ Big Info by clicking on the links below! It is guaranteed that you will be inspired by his consistency and love for music.

https://instagram.com/djbiginf

https://m.facebook.com/DjBiginf/

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Who is Nicqua B?

I had the privilege to interview Nicqua B on her career and overcoming her struggles. Automatically, I noticed that Nicqua is a vibrant soul, soft spoken yet has a powerful delivery. A creator in many spectrums. A Spoken word artist, musically divine and her brutally honest poetry reflects on the joy and struggles of the modern world. She’s has been doing poetry since the third grade, having her teacher as motivation to pursue her writing career. She has an amazing way of expressing herself. However, as life threw curveballs, facing many challenges like anxiety & depression to losses in her life.  Losing people near and dear to her, Nicqua temporally put her passion on hold from time to time. Nicqua achieved her first hit with her breakthrough EP ‘Who I Am,’ which introduced a wider audience to her dazzling gift for language. As we know, I am a firm believer that passion is power and as time progressed Nicqua passion comes back with power. She made her comeback on a social media platform called “Smooth Lounge R&B and Spoken word artist”, hosted by radio host Lil Nat. She was chosen by her performance and began humbling accepting her comeback. Since the platform experience she kept pushing forward and never looked back. The Native New Yorker released her latest album “The Transition” on August 31st 2020. I’ve enjoyed her eccentric flow on “Use too” to her relatable message on “My Block”. I took a vibe to “Yummy Yummy” as she expressed her melodic pleasures as I was able to connect with her emotions. She is expressive with her words and it truly captivates the listener. You will find her music and social media below as you ready more on Nicqua.

V-Henny: Where in New York are you from?

Nicqua: I am from Uniondale/ Hempstead New York.

As a creator in this industry, has pandemic affected your craft? If so, How? 

Believe it or not, it has affected me in a way whereas it motivated me to write more – so many injustices & the pandemic put together basically gave me the passion to speak on it- we lost so many people due to this pandemic & the constant social injustice is heartbreaking.

Tell us briefly about your recent project ” The Transition”.  

Well, my ep “ The Transition” is actually showing different sides of me. How I am not just a poet – I am hip hop- I am R&B – like so many amazing artists such as Floetry, Common, Wale, Jill Scott, and many more. Also, it represents the growth in me as a spoken word artist ~ as a poet ~ and the phases I went through in life that I conquered. I thought I was dying without a disease besides anxiety – I literally was giving my husband instructions on what I want him to do once I died. So I have come along way thanks to poetry and my family. 

Other notables you have worked with?  

I had another EP called ” Who am I ” during my moments whereas I really down. A lot of written poetry on my page, collaborations with other amazing poets, being apart of a supportive tribe, currently working on a book where it has my poetry and speaks on where I was at mentally while writing that particular poem& I am trying to raise awareness for Mental Health Services. A blog for other artists to be able to have a safe space – creating an open mic night ( Tuesday Nights) coming soon and lastly, merchandise in the works. 

The ultimate goal within your artistry?   

Is to raise awareness for mental health illnesses, give people another form of spoken word artistry – and change people’s lives by making them feel good. 

Is there anything else you would like the world to know about you?  

I am a mother of four and a nurse. I also like to dance – mainly, I just love every goal I’m running towards. 

What makes you stand out from everyone else?

I have no problem touching different aspects of my craft- I’m not afraid to try new things as long as it makes me feel good in my spirit as well as makes my audience feel good as well. I talk about everything – social injustice – slavery – dancing – erotic- love – hip-hop- reminiscent type poems – I try to touch every subject.

What were some steps you took to get to where you are today?   

I stayed Consistent- took great care constructive criticism from other poet and none poets – still learning not to take certain things personally but I have gotten a lot better. Opened me up for open mics – to get more comfortable performing – did my own marketing and promotions- did collaborations with other artists – networking 

For more of Nicqua B follow her on All social Media Platform

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-transition/1529914345

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/5FlebQoxiAKTozAOLuJFJM?si=s2eWFnkNTcSdGx1mjmasjg 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicquab/

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Christyal Thoughts- Music is Therapy

As I learn more about talented artists such as Christyal Thoughts, I realize that many creatives suffer a great deal throughout life. Instead of allowing life-changing occurrences to break them, they turn their pain and past traumas into a path of flourishment and success.

The loss of a mother is one of the most devastating experiences a child can face. Not only does a child feel emptiness and confusion, but they then lack guidance, support, and the innate, natural bond they once held with their parent. Losing her mother to substance abuse at the age of three, Christyal Thoughts was then adopted and began on a new life venture.

Christyal quickly grasped onto her musical talents and began writing at the age of 11, using her pen and paper as therapy. As years passed by, Christyal’s writing improved and she felt like she was ready to take the next step in pursuing her music. Joining a female rap group at the age of 16, she was able to gain experience in working and collaborating with others while also gaining the ability to perform in front of large crowds.

In 2010 Christyal enrolled in college, seeking a business degree. During this time she met a gentleman who invited her to FL studio. This is where she learned about and grew a love for production. In 2013 Christyal graduated with an audio-engineering degree. With this under her belt, she was able to broaden her horizons and further her musical abilities. She began producing for local artists and started making a name for herself.

While producing music and engineering for other artists, Christyal continued to work on her own music. In 2017 she released her first project titled, “IMF 1”. After her first album, she didn’t stop there. She has also released “Confessions to Spring” and “Confessions to Summer”. Her music is both therapeutic and conscious.

While listening to “Confessions to Summer” I sensed feelings of love, sex, and change. When reflecting back to a summer where you spent every moment with that special someone, think about the good and bad times you experienced. This project puts you on a roller-coaster regarding disloyalty, transitions, intimacy, and lust. While listening to “Confessions to Summer”, I was intrigued by the track “No No”. Zia Bieu, the singer on this track, harmonizes well and while singing, also speaks. Her sexy tone combined with harmonies and relatable lyrics makes this song easy to resonate with. While searching through Christyal’s music, I also came across a song titled, “Cruel World”. “How your stomach felt when you ain’t get a meal. Ain’t none of my friends know I ain’t get a meal”…this line hit home. So many of us judge people based off of what we see on social media completely unaware of the predicaments that occur behind the scenes, from one post to the next. For Christyal, making music helps bring those situations to the forefront potentially allowing people to utilize her music as their medicine.

To stream Christyal’s music check out the links that follow.

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Cameron Jay- “Bank Rolls”

It’s time to open the vault and bring Cameron Jay’s new single “Bank Rolls” to the forefront. Delivering an up-tempo track with a catchy hook and witty punch lines is right up his alley. Expecting nothing less from this amazing artist, I wasted no time streaming “Bank Rolls”. Whether the listener is sacrificing everything and stacking their money or splurging on shopping sprees and a luxurious lifestyle, there is no doubt that they will be able to relate to this song. Cameron Jay carefully executed the creation of this song, ensuring that he portrayed the flashy side of himself while also reminding the listener of where he comes from.

It is during hard times that we are all currently witnessing, that many of us turn to music in hopes of feeling uplifted. Many listen to slow jams, something that keeps them in the moment. On the other hand, there are some who listen to upbeat songs that encourage them, keep them determined, and focused.

Think of the song that seeps through your headphones while you are at the gym; the one track that pushes you to finish the last rep. Envision hearing that one song when you’re feeling discouraged that completely transitions your mood from melancholy to inspired and enthusiastic. If you’ve ever heard the songs “Bring Em Out” by T.I. or “I Get Money” by 50 cent, do you remember the vibe you felt while listening? When listening to “Bank Roll” by Cameron Jay, I sense a similar vibe.

“In first place, ain’t really heard of second. Life’s so sweet. The money stacked neat. I can knock you out or put you on your feet”. Through Cameron Jay’s lyrics it is obvious that he is a confident, go-getter who will stop at nothing to remain at the top. His delivery throughout “Bank Rolls” will no doubt put the listener into a similar mindset.

Be sure to stream “Bank Rolls” by Cameron Jay, available everywhere! Check it out below!

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JAYR DION – SEEN IT HAPPENING

A perfect way to observe and analyze the work ethic of an artist these days is to check out their social media. With continuous promotion, content, and engagement with his audience, it is clear that JayR Dion takes his music seriously. It is known throughout the industry, that although talent is imperative, so are image, marketability, work ethic, and a good following. JayR Dion is the entire package. 

As mentioned, JayR never disappoints with consistently sharing new content and music. Behind the scenes footage, new songs, music videos, and graphics keep his fans on their toes, yearning for more. JayR recently released his new project “Seen it Happening”.  For those who have read my content, you know what time it is. As I write this article, I let the artist’s music consume my ears in hopes to present the best description of his project.

JayR begins with “Up to Something”, a perfect way to introduce this work of art. This track helps the listener visualize their goals and intentions for the future. “Momma working, she need a never ending break. That’s why I been working so she can count up all this cake. I’m for certain we gon’ be everything we say we will”. I can guarantee this song will resonate with many of you. The struggle, the grind, sleepless nights…we have all been there.

As I continue to listen to “Seen it Happening”, the song “Insomnia” captured my attention. The beat is soft and catchy perfectly embracing the lyrics. This track paints a vivid picture of the artist’s drive. You can tell a lot about an artist by paying attention to his/her lyrics. He asks questions like, “How you complain when you ain’t working? How you live without a purpose?” JayR creates music that makes a listener think but also has you moving to the beat simultaneously. 

In hopes that I have given the reader a well-rounded description of JayR Dion’s music, I encourage the reader to stream his new project, “Seen it Happening” to experience his talent for yourself.

“Seen iT Happening” Available everywhere!!!!


https://linktr.ee/jayrdion

Apple music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/seen-it-happening/1522380680

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/26tQAzXtcyMCS0cm7Gha8b?si=5deOEtO0RNKegvrb-j1Fyg

Tidal: https://tidal.com/album/147699982

Follow JayR Dion

https://Www.instagram.com/jayrdion

https://Www.facebook.com/jayrdion

https://Www.twitter.com/jayrdion

Written by JULZ

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