Artist To Watch
June Freedom signs artist partnership with Empire and highlight new collab album
Cape Verdean American Afropop/Worldbeat artist June Freedom announces he has signed an artist partnership deal between his label Flight Club Music Group and EMPIRE. This career milestone marks June as the first Cape Verdean to sign a partnership with a major American music company and comes fresh off the artist’s two wins at the 2022 Cabo Verde Music Awards—taking home Best International Rhythm and Best Male Performance for Anchor Baby lead single, “Andréia”.
“Freedom to create my own lane in this industry has always been one of my missions, and I love that EMPIRE supports this vision with all their artists,” said June in an announcement of his signing. “The evolution of our partnership was very organic and I’m eager to share more music with the help of my growing EMPIRE team.”
June’s excitement is reciprocated by EMPIRE’s executive A&R team. On the signing, Senior Vice President of A&R, Tina Davis says: “June Freedom is an incredible talent and a unique addition to our EMPIRE Africa roster. I’m excited to see him bring his artistic and authentic creations to the world.” Vice President of A&R and GRAMMY-nominated producer, Shama “Sak Pase” Joseph adds: “EMPIRE is home to some of the most trailblazing artists today. I look forward to working alongside June Freedom who is positioned to be one of the diaspora’s most unique artists.”
Equally thrilled to amplify June Freedom is EMPIRE Africa’s lead Project Manager, Titilope Adesanya. “Listening to June’s music for the first time was like being transported to summer, on a beach, or autumn, dancing in a lounge. He is able to capture and express a variety of emotions through his sound that is rich and feels ‘bright’ almost,” said Titilope on first discovering the artist and distinguishing his potential. “June and his core team have a precision approach to things that I respect and am inspired by.”
June also celebrates the news by unveiling that he will be one of the artists featured on EMPIRE Africa’s debut compilation album, Where We Come From, Vol. 1. The album—set to be released November 30th—will showcase an expansive range of African soundscapes, bolstering representation and cultural appreciation beyond West African Afropop. Other artists set to feature on the album include Fireboy DML, Olamide, BNXN, L.A.X, Cheque, Kizz Daniel, and more.
Long committed to expanding the commercial and mainstream breadth of Cape Verdean music, June amassed a loyal following with the independent release of his debut album, Anchor Baby, back in Summer 2021. The album, and its anniversary deluxe edition, garnered international critical attention from the likes of Rolling Stone USA, EuroNews, TimeOut Portugal, COLORS Listen, South by Southwest, Atlantic Music Expo and more. Most recently, GQ Middle East included June Freedom on their “Best Afrobeats Artists Who Are Pushing the Genre Forward” list—alongside Rema, Ayra Starr, Omah Lay and Tiwa Savage— attributing June’s rise to his “sensual” and “genre-bending” style derived from “his African roots [fused] with elements of electronic and Latin music.”
Far from being the conclusion of a successful artist launch, this official partnership marks the beginning of a new chapter for June Freedom worldwide.
Black Skywalker, the rising artist with an undeniable buzz, drops his debut EP, I Need Therapy.
The new project promises to usher in the new era of hip-hop. “Rap music is in a dark place and I came to bring the light,” said Skywalker. “The type of music I make is best described as Outer Space Jedi-level rap shit.”
Black Skywalker and Chris Rosa produced the debut EP featuring the focus track “Pills and Alcohol”. The single describes a man battling depression and anxiety with prescription medicine and champagne.
The EP includes hard-hitting 808s, crackling snares, and spacey synths. “We in Love” is a melodic record with a bouncy bass and drums. However, the lyrics depict a flawed relationship due to social media and porn addiction.
Black Skywalker’s ‘Pain of Letting Go’ has huge production and raw guitar. The lyrics express deep emotion and heartbreak, making the EP’s inspiration very clear.
“Therapy” is a song that touches on the struggles of life and the importance of seeking help. The production is interesting, with dark verses and uplifting hooks. The second verse highlights the benefits of opening up to a therapist and encourages others to do the same.
“Slide with Me” is a standout track from the EP with great production and an infectious hook. It narrates the story of falling in love with the woman of your dreams and has an upbeat vibe that sets it apart from the rest of the EP.
EP delivers a relatable conversation, amazing production, and intentional songwriting. Black Skywalker calls it outer space Jedi-level rap music.
Check out the full EP below.
Fast-rising Charlotte recording artist DeeYounginn makes 2024 his moment and it starts with his latest single, “Right Now.”
In the latest visual, he cruises the streets in a foreign rapping about his undeniable impact, living a lavish lifestyle, and more. After gaining popularity with previous hits, the latest release is the perfect origin point for newfound fans as DeeYounginn rises to the moment as one of the year’s hottest new stars in modern hip-hop.
“Right Now” sets up the rising star’s upcoming album arriving in 2024. Check out the new video below, and, afterward, follow the rising star on social media for daily updates and more.
SoFaygo-producer Trenton Kyle handles instrumentation duties for Alternative act Bailey Snow‘s latest single “Pink Diamonds.” Following the release of “5150” back in March, “Pink Diamonds” is a fun upbeat song with catchy flows that centers around simply wanting more for yourself.
In a press statement, the North Carolina native revealed: “Pink diamonds speak to my future existence. It depicts everything I see myself achieving. Definitely something you can play anywhere; your car, a party, or whenever you need to hear something inspiring.”
Combining the genres of Hip-Hop, EDM, Punk, and Rage, Bailey Snow has successfully cultivated a unique brand of sonics in just a few short years. With the canny ability to set the mood for a kick back while simultaneously having you reflect on your darkest moments, his music paints a picture with words that allow listeners to see the world through his eyes.
Stream “Pink Diamonds” on your DSP of choice below via Nu Nation / Vydia and watch the visual for “5150” | HERE.
Black Skywalker Drops Anticipated ‘I Need Therapy’ EP
DeeYounginn Releases New Visual “Right Now”
Bailey Snow Shines Bright Like A “Pink Diamonds”
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The New West Coast Festival: A Revelation in the West Coast Music Scene
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Ann-Derie Releases “Maximum Capacity”
JORDI WINS RED BULL BATALLA SAN ANTONIO QUALIFIER AFTER AN ELECTRIFYING
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Editorials3 days agoThe New West Coast Festival: A Revelation in the West Coast Music Scene
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Audio6 days agoPhilly’s Dell Corcetti Shares Melodic New Song “Priceless”
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Audio6 days agoNacho Soprano Shares “Mode”
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Music Videos6 days agoAnn-Derie Releases “Maximum Capacity”
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Features3 days agoJORDI WINS RED BULL BATALLA SAN ANTONIO QUALIFIER AFTER AN ELECTRIFYING
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Artist To Watch2 days agoBailey Snow Shines Bright Like A “Pink Diamonds”
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Artist To Watch19 hours agoDeeYounginn Releases New Visual “Right Now”
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Artist To Watch10 hours agoBlack Skywalker Drops Anticipated ‘I Need Therapy’ EP