Music Videos

Roc Nation Signs HDBeenDope with Brand New Freestyle “Paper Planes” Freestyle

Published

2 years ago

September 7, 2022

Weasel

Roc Nation Label has announced the signing of Brooklyn-native HDBeenDope. From penning clever raps over his own high-octane production, to self-directing many of his music videos, HD underscores his place as the next big artist to trailblaze through this year’s hip-hop scene with a new sound embodying the city of New York.

“As an executive, when you know, you know.” said Shari Bryant, co-president of Roc Nation label. “Between the charisma, the style, the energy, the lyricism, and his unique creative approach, it was clear to us that we needed HD to be a part of what we were rebuilding here at the Roc Nation label. We are excited for the world to see what he has to offer.“

“HD represents everything a Roc Nation artist should be: creative, dedicated, hands on and most importantly consistent,” said Roc Nation label co-president Omar Grant. “His approach to music and all creative aspects are intentional. He has a sharp attention span for detail which you see embedded in his musical storytelling and across his visuals. We’re thrilled to have him on the team and show the world what’s to come.”

“I’m a writer and artist from Brooklyn signed to Hov. Those of you who love hip hop like I do understand how special that is,” says HDBeenDope. “I’d love to tell you it just happened out of nowhere but the truth is the intent has been consistent through and through. I think they call that serendipity,” HDBeenDope said. “I’m here for legacy, living in the now and creating for the future. That’s what I’m about, that’s what Roc is about. That’s what we are about.”

In celebration of the new record label deal, HD has dropped his brand new “Paper Planes” free verse produced by Dizzy Banko and video directed by Erikson Corniel. The visual showcases HD in his home studio spitting raw lyrics over captivating beats as he drives through his hometown of Brooklyn before landing at the Roc Nation’s New York headquarters to pay homage to the new partnership.

Sharpening his craft at the top of 2022, HD produced weekly freestyles called “FreeVerses” embedded with sly introductions to his alter ego VLLE, over sonically pleasing instrumentals from popular and local North East emerging artists. The “Paper Planes” freestyle is the 22nd installment to his steady stream of weekly freestyles dropped consecutively in the first six months this year, underscoring HD’s unparalleled consistency and drive as an artist.

Later this week, HDBeenDope will be releasing his first single as a Roc Nation label signee, “Wake Em Up” also produced by Dizzy Banko. The Brooklyn rapper previewed the track release earlier this month during his headline show at The Meadows which featured special, surprise appearances from Dizzy Banko, Tyler Loyal, Niko Brim, Kai Ca$h, A.C. XZA, Lola Brooke, Devon Terrell and more. The Meadows is the latest of the marquee stages HD’s has performed on, which includes one of the nation’s largest festivals, Rolling Loud.

In 2021, the multi-faceted powerhouse released his highly anticipated project Side A: The Preface, with multi-platinum producer Earl On The Beat which included collaborations with fellow Roc Nation artist Maeta and Landstrip Chip.

Drawing influence from his city’s rich history of hip-hop culture and East Coast legends like Big L and Notorious B.I.G, the New York-native dropped his second project BrokeN Dreams in 2020 featuring the hit single “Die With Me” which cultivated critical acclaim from HYPEBEAST, DJ Booth, XXL, before releasing the song “Top,” which was featured in Madden NFL 21, NBA2k & across sports blogs. HD’s massive hit “BYRD” has amassed over 28 million streams and counting to date.

Music Videos

Multifaceted Artist and Professional Athlete Lu’, Shares New Afrobeat Vibes “Over”

Published

21 hours ago

May 4, 2024

Weasel

Lu’ (@ottawasveryown) is back with another one! He has been shaking things up in the music scene since his ground-breaking debut “FEVA,” released earlier in February this year. Now, he returns with another highly-anticipated single, “Over,” out now. This offering is accompanied with a music video & solidifies Lu’s mark in the music game with his captivating storytelling and infectious sound.

“Over” is another compelling feel good single that highlights Lu’s artistic identity and capability. “Over evokes pure enjoyment and immaculate summer vibes,” he says. He invites listeners into an irresistible musical experience through the Afrobeats sound. Drawing inspiration from English and French-speaking artists, as well as Congolese artists, he sets himself apart from the industry as a multilingual artist. The accompanying music video was shot in Lagos, Nigeria and offers a setting of African greatness, luxury, and an overall great time.

Originally hailing from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, and now making waves in Phoenix, Arizona, Lu’ is a renowned Arizona Cardinals linebacker who made his musical debut earlier this year with his debut single, “FEVA.” Fighting the notion of “shut up and dribble,” Lu’ has shown that he’s far more multifaceted than just an average athlete. He shares, “The narrative of ‘shut up and dribble’ is one I’ve fought internally for a very long time. I want my audience to grasp how passionate I am about chasing my wildest dreams. You can’t let another person tell you, your dreams are too far unattainable.” Lu’ has been able to perfectly parallel his passion and dedication of being a talented athlete as well as a talented artist.

It’s worth noting that Lu’ is a definite powerhouse to keep an eye on as he continues to break barriers in both sports and music. His transition from sports to music is a prominent testament to him embracing his versatility, following his dreams, and reaching new heights. The unfolding musical journey of this rising Canadian artist is a must see.

Watch the video for “Over” HERE.

Stream “Over” HERE.

Music Videos

ChinaTownRunner x $tupid Young x Star2 Shares “FWM”

Published

5 days ago

May 1, 2024

Weasel

Asian-American rappers Star2, ChinaTownRunner, and $tupid Young release the new single / video entitled “FWM”. The single precedes Star2 and ChinaTownRunner’s upcoming EP and sets the bar high with haunting cavernous beats and dark melodic flow.

Each of them affirm that they are “about money” in their separate verses and all ask listeners to “come and F*** With Me.” The music video for “FWM” captures Star2, ChinaTownRunner, and $tupid Young in a graffiti-stroked garage full of sports cars and women. Leaning into the sheer magnitude of the track itself, the visuals for “FWM” zero in on each rapper for an intense performance.

Star2 and ChinaTownRunner are preparing to embark on a summer tour with $tupid Young set to appear at multiple dates. Additionally, Star2 and ChinaTownRunner will perform on July 6th in support of the annual Ka-ren Soccer Tournament and Concert in South Dakota.

Star2 is a refugee artist from the Mae La refugee camp in Thailand. Star2’s documentary, RETURN TO KAWTHOOLEI: A Refugee Rapper’s Journey to His Homeland in Burma will be screened at the New Media Film Festival in LA on June 6th. So far, the documentary has been awarded with “Best Short Documentary” at the Malaysian Film Festival, “Best Documentary” at the Busan New Wave Short Film Festival in S. Korea, “Best Web and Media” at the IndieX Film Fest in LA, and “Exceptional Merit in Docu-drama Short & Human Spirit” at the Documentaries Without Borders Film Festival. Star2 returns to Thailand in May for his second trip.

Music Videos

Ann-Derie Releases “Maximum Capacity”

Published

2 weeks ago

April 23, 2024

Weasel

Hollywood, Florida native Ann-Derie presents the official video for “Maximum Capacity”, the new single from I Am Only Human, her forthcoming album which also spawned “Just Us”, produced by Alvin Speights (R.I.P.), the engineer behind tracks for India Arie, TLC, Keith Sweat and many more. Shot in New York City, the “Maximum Capacity” clip comes on the heels of Ann-Derie’s tour of the East Coast (watch her interview with 99JAMZ). “Maximum Capacity” is out now on Dxnna Music Group.

Check it out!