Interviews
@DJYEMI is the DJ you need to know
DJ Yemi is a successful DJ who’s come out of West Virginia, a state not known for its musical contributions to the hip-hop scene. He’s seen a lot in this industry, has worked with artists like Travis Scott, Ty Dolla $ign, and more, and has a story to tell as well as offer advice to others who wish to learn the craft.
Check out our exclusive interview with him below.
What’s the music scene like in West Virginia?
The music scene in West Virginia is very diverse. You have the country roots and then you have the hip hop and pop influence coming in by out of state talent.
What made you want to break out of it?
Traveling to other states and seeing opportunities made me want to expand.
How would you describe your approach to DJing?
My approach is all about connecting with the crowd. If I can connect with the crowd by making them feel every song and beat I have done my job.
Who are some inspirations that have helped you craft your performance aesthetic?
No one particular person has given me inspiration. I have just looked at live performances on YouTube and my experiences at my own gigs have helped me grow.
What was the moment that you knew that you could do this professionally?
There were lots of little moments that bubbled into knowing a DJ career was on the horizon. But one was years ago when I got an EDM gig and I was able to change my live set with that concert. I created a set made for the event and did so good they invited me back.
What’s the hardest thing about being a self-taught DJ?
Hardest thing I would say is keeping up with the different sounds of music! So many different genres of music to maintain. You always have to be tapped in what’s making people move on the dance floor.
How do you go about connecting with such big artists?
I often look for an unknown artist with good sound and lyrics. Then, I build a relationship with them regardless of how big they get. Some have gotten to Billboard. The connection always starts at the root.
How has growing up in the church affected your approach to music?
When in church, the music hits the soul and has more meaning than just anything that you listen to on a daily basis. So when I look for music that strikes my interests, I look for the same feeling. Soulfulness and meaningful lyrics that stand for something.
What’s your favorite DJing story with an artist that you’ve worked with?
Not a story, but one thing I have learned about the great artists is that they put in the work. Late studio nights, perfecting everything from lyrics to the sound
What tips do you have for aspiring DJs?
The tip I always give is consistency! No matter what be consistent! On-time and ready to do a great job at any gig!
What would be your dream gig?
Don’t have a dream gig but my dream is to be able to continue to work with music and provide for my family!
Interviews
Thomas “Bubba” Harrison, From Hip Hop To Major Flights, He Has Always Shined
Queens native Thomas “Bubba” Harrison has lived an exciting life. Thomas exemplifies perseverance and dedication to pursuing greatness from his time with the legendary rap group ONYX to landing various successful real estate deals and even starting a black-owned commercial flight business.
Dealing with a rocky First venture with a music imprint partnered with Sony that Harrison had to repivot out of due to unfortunate circumstances halting the deal and rekindling his passion for music. 1997 then came, and life changed for Thomas as he began writing under the name Bubba Smiff as he began recording with the ONYX. However, his love for real estate took off during that time, and he netted a quarter million in value from his first property purchases he used from his rap career money.
Now, Thomas started to become a real estate Tycoon and business genius. Throughout the early 2000s, Harrison accrued over fifty properties from New York to California. He used the immense network he gained in music to help maintain upkeep and boost expansion for his ascending real estate empire. He also established a successful credit repair business that helped people purchase the cars and houses of their dreams. Thomas even previewed his future ventures by influencing people to fly with Jet Smarter. This private airline company gave customers flights for quality at the time because it was his passion and dream to run a successful flight business, so he wanted to see the backend side of that business.
This man Thomas “Bubba” Harrison, originating from Queens, has a God-given acumen IQ, and this was only the start because years passed before the recent COVID era. Thomas and two colleagues pooled enough money to purchase a plane together. This motivated Harrison to enroll in Long Island Aviators School to work on his piloting certificate because he wanted to be more than an owner. Now, he is putting together his next ultra-successful business venture, Fly Flashy, which is progressing smoothly with a core base in Florida. Things are set in motion for it to become your new favorite airline soon. God fearing and passionate, hats off to Thomas Harrison for being a role model to artists worldwide and black men.
Features
Get To Know @Uknowflyboi Ahead Of The Release Of “Tokyo Drift”
Flyboi Rich is someone that we talk to frequently at 4ShoMag. He’s one of the best rising artists out of Detroit, and just a look at his consistency in releases over the last few years, plus his rising streams on platforms (he’s had millions of streams) shows that the world is realizing it too.
It’s been a while since we’ve caught up with what he’s doing, but, ahead of the release of his new single “Tokyo Drift,” we wanted to catch up with him quickly about where he’s been, what’s inspiring him, and what we can expect from “Tokyo Drift.”
Check out our brief conversation below.
Could you tell me a bit about where you’ve been since our last conversation?
I’ve been doing a lot of traveling studying planning buying real estate learning more about the business side of music and taking meetings with smaller labels. Ethika recently had me come in to talk.
How has your career elevated?
My streams have been going up and with that comes trouble. People have been hacking into my social media accounts so I’ve just been rebuilding them. I’m seeing streams go up over a million a month sometimes, so I appreciate whoever is listening to me and watching my videos.
What’s the inspiration for your new music?
My new releases are inspired by the drama that I’ve been going through, just life situations that I’ve been putting into the music. When you hear me, I’m putting my all so people who understand my struggles can identify with what I’m saying. I always make sure the punchlines and metaphors hit too, because that’s something I always focus on.
What’s the message behind it?
The message behind it is to really talk crazy and speak your mind. Don’t let your voice get shut out. Open up and do whatever you want to do and take chances for what you want to become Don’t take shit from nobody. And to be honest, it’s also my story of coming from the trenches as an underdog.
What are you working on beyond this that your fans can wait on?
The next thing that I’m working on is definitely more music — starting with the release of “Tokyo Drift.” I’m also working on new ways to present my brand to people — whether it’s more clothes and fashion lines on the way, or being featured on bigger blogs and radios. You’re going to be seeing a lot more of me in the near future.
Keep up with Flyboi Rich on Twitter and Instagram at @uknowflyboi.
Artist To Watch
R&B/Soul Music’s Newest Star: Oshanna Listeners on a Journey of Self-Discovery and Empowerment
Meet Oshanna Naomi Davis, the rising star in R&B/soul music. She hails from Toronto but grew up in Brampton, and is currently based in Vaughan. Oshanna draws her inspiration from some of the greatest musicians, including Michael Jackson, Lauren Hill, Alicia Keys, Kiesha Cole, Mary J. Blige, and Jhene Aiko. Her music is a unique blend of R&B/soul, chill, and alternative sounds that represent her perspective on life.
For Oshanna, music is more than just a hobby; it’s her passion and calling. It provides her with a safe space to express herself and connect with others. Oshanna’s music invites her listeners on a journey of self-discovery, vulnerability, and empowerment. Her latest project, “Energy,” is a testament to the power of authentic connections and the transformative nature of friendship. It’s inspired by Oshanna’s close friendship with someone who taught her the real meaning of unconditional love.
“Energy” is the first single from Oshanna’s upcoming EP, which is scheduled to be released in August 2023. Her performance at the NXNE Festival in Toronto in June will be something to look forward to. Additionally, as the first-place winner of the Coast to Coast Artist Showcase, Oshanna will be going to the finals in Miami on November 11th to perform some unreleased music.
Through her music, Oshanna hopes to inspire her fans to follow their dreams and conquer their challenges. Her message of self-love, authenticity, and vulnerability is a source of liberation and empowerment for her listeners. As a rising star in the world of R&B/soul music, Oshanna’s future is undoubtedly bright. Her music is a beautiful invitation for her listeners to embark on a journey of self-discovery, vulnerability, and empowerment.
Check out her new single “Energy” below.
-
Artist To Watch6 days ago
TJ Carroll Releases New Songs “Road Trip” & “Just Say That”
-
Audio4 days ago
Loso Tha Artist Delivers His Latest Project ‘Vibes Only’ EP
-
Audio4 days ago
Iz LaMarr and Kenny Dreams Tag Team On new single “WE AINT NUMB”
-
Artist To Watch6 days ago
Miles Minnick & Jon Keith Share New Song “Him”