Music Videos
DUSTY LOCANE and KitschKrieg Connect for “Ratchets”
A mysterious collective with a black-and-white aesthetic and a militaristic dedication to the cool, Berlin’s KitschKrieg are ready to remake the American music scene in their own image. Their first stop: Brooklyn, one of the chief outposts in the global ascension of drill music. Connecting with one of the borough’s hottest rising stars in DUSTY LOCANE, KitschKrieg shares “Ratchets,” an ice cold video single out now via SoulForce Records.
Combining the sliding 808s of NYC/UK drill with insistent house kick drums and horror movie strings, “Ratchets” strives to create the kind of banger that can shutdown clubs across the globe. DUSTY LOCANE sinks his teeth into the mutating instrumental with his snarling basso voice, switching up his flow, turning to rapidfire triplets, lockstep rolls, and invigorating chants as the beat shifts from BK drill to Jersey club and back. He reminds his fans that even though he’s working with some international flavor, he’s still a hometown hero: “In a town overseas, you know we got flavors/Fizzle came with the beam, we call that the laser/Hot grabba spliff, came straight from Jamaica (weh yuh deh pon)/And I’m still on the fifth, you can’ call me the Mayor (you gon’ call me the Mayor).”
“Ratchets” arrives along with a slickly stylish video that imports the KitschKrieg aesthetic to DUSTY LOCANE’s home city. The video is filmed in crisp black and white, and the figures on screen wear fits that reflect the monochromatic color palette–as DUSTY says, “black hoodie, black mask, matching.” Splitting its action between the Lower East Side and the East River waterfront, the video finds DUSTY mobbing with ski-masked Suvies and staring directly into the camera as he delivers his bruising bars. Look closely for a glimpses of KitschKrieg band members Fizzle and Fiji Kris, who plant their flag on the shores of the East River, signaling their impending domination of the American scene.
Animated by a sharp aesthetic, exquisite sound design, and a dedication to brutal minimalism, KitschKrieg created a sound of their own, drawing influence from influences that range from the holistic approach of Bauhaus to the steely soundscapes of grime to the electronic music of their hometown of Berlin–all while staying out of the way and letting the vocal breathe. A trio comprised of Fizzle, Fiji Kris, and elusive photographer °awhodat°, KitschKrieg rose steadily over the past five years to become one of the biggest acts in German music. KitschKrieg, their 2020 debut album, spawned two #1 hits, generated over 400 million streams across platforms, and featured guest spots from international names like Vybz Kartel and Modeselektor and local heroes like Peter Fox and Trettmann, a star German rapper signed to KK’s SoulForce Records. They’re known for their exquisite taste in streetwear–their new offerings sell out in hours–and have partnered with brands like Nike, Carhartt, and Monopoly.
With their sights set on conquering new worlds and an album on the way–called German Engineering, the album promises guest spots from some of the hottest artists in the U.S. and beyond–KitschKrieg is determined to continue their war on disposable art on foreign shores. “Ratchets” is merely the opening salvo–stay tuned for much more.
Watch “Ratchets” ft. DUSTY LOCANE here!
Music Videos
J. Abram and Louie Valentino Unleash Bold New Visuals for Hit Single “Shake”
Bay Area’s J. Abram and Vallejo native Louie Valentino have turned up the heat with the release of the official video for their hit single “Shake.” The track, which dominated the summer playlists since its July release, now comes with a fresh set of steamy visuals that elevate the song to another level.
Directed by Kayso, the video brings viewers into an intimate, high-energy environment, featuring skilled dancers performing captivating pole routines and seductive choreography. The strip-club-inspired scenes are filled with flashing lights, sleek movements, and a sense of intensity that mirrors the electrifying vibe of the track. The choreography is fluid and enticing, perfectly matched with the song’s infectious beat, making it hard to look away.
“Shake” made an immediate impact over the summer, becoming a favorite for its hypnotic rhythm and catchy lyrics. The new music video continues that momentum, giving fans a visual experience that complements the track’s seductive sound. J. Abram and Louie Valentino’s dynamic collaboration shines through both in the music and the visuals, offering something that’s bound to resonate with fans and newcomers alike.
Now available for streaming on all major platforms, “Shake” and its bold new video are a must-watch, promising to keep the track on everyone’s radar well beyond summer.
Artist To Watch
Kyle Banks Celebrates City Life in New Single ‘Fantasies’ Featuring Eric Bellinger
Today marks a significant moment for R&B enthusiasts as emerging West Coast artist Kyle Banks releases his highly anticipated single, “Fantasies,” featuring the legendary Eric Bellinger. Set against the backdrop of California’s vibrant music scene, this collaboration is sure to resonate with fans who crave the smooth, infectious sounds that define West Coast R&B.
“Fantasies” immerses listeners in the exhilarating energy of city life, where fun and romance take center stage. Kyle Banks explains the inspiration behind the track: “Overall, the message of the song is having fun in the city. We’ve all caught feelings for a dancer before.” This sentiment encapsulates the playful yet relatable essence of the song, making it an anthem for those who embrace the nightlife and all its possibilities.
The partnership between Banks and Bellinger is particularly noteworthy. For Kyle, collaborating with Eric Bellinger represents a significant milestone in his career. “This song stands out to me because it’s with someone I used to listen to all the time coming up. It’s dope to finally release a song with one of my favorite artists,” he shares. Bellinger’s influence on Banks is evident, and this synergy shines through in their performance, creating a track that feels both fresh and deeply rooted in the R&B tradition.
Eric Bellinger is not just a collaborator; he’s a pivotal figure in the West Coast R&B scene. With a career spanning over a decade, Bellinger has consistently pushed the boundaries of R&B, blending contemporary sounds with traditional influences. His work as a songwriter for numerous artists and as a solo performer has established him as a key architect of the modern R&B landscape. Songs like “Focused on You” and “Treat Yourself” have solidified his reputation as a go-to hitmaker, and his ability to craft relatable narratives makes him a beloved figure in the genre.
The production of “Fantasies” is handled by the dynamic duo Meez & Louie Ji, who infuse the track with a polished yet lively sound. Their production style complements the artists’ vocals beautifully, creating an infectious groove that invites listeners to dance and unwind. The track’s vibrant instrumentation and catchy hooks encapsulate the spirit of celebration that Kyle and Eric aim to convey.
To visually complement this release, the official music video—directed by Koby—captures the carefree essence of urban nightlife. The visuals reflect the excitement and allure of city life, enhancing the song’s narrative and providing a stunning backdrop to the lyrics. Expect vivid imagery that showcases the dynamic energy of nightlife, making the video a feast for the senses.
As “Fantasies” makes its debut today, it signals a bright future for Kyle Banks and underscores the importance of Eric Bellinger in shaping the West Coast R&B sound. With this collaboration, Banks not only honors a musical hero but also establishes himself as a rising star in the genre.
Don’t miss out on this exhilarating new track—stream “Fantasies” now and immerse yourself in the magic of city life and love!
Artist To Watch
HussleBoyFetti & Ralfy The Plug Release New Single “Unfollow”
Quickly becoming one of the hottest new acts in West Coast hip-hop, Los Angeles’ HussleBoyFetti follows up his breakout singles “Liar” and “Energy” with a new collaboration with Stinc Gang frontman Ralfy The Plug called “Unfollow.”
The new hit is about distancing yourself from the clout chasers and leechers. Overall, the duo preach self-made qualities to succeed. Fetti delivers more of his charismatic laid-back flow blended with street lingo that creates magentic attraction for listeners both new and old.
He raps: “Sticking to the plan like I’m pose too / cup half full but that money is my coaster / It always gives me closure / I don’t really need to much exposure / Tell me what you want, what you really want, baby all I want is the money and the throat…”
Ralfy Da Plug displays a swavy demeanor as he coaches listeners on how to play the game without cheat codes that won’t make you an imitation of others. “Told them paid in full and I beat a couple RICOs / I can show you how to play the game with no cheat codes / Only thing I can’t stand is a bitch that freeloads,” raps Ralfy.
The new collaboration appears on HussleBoyFetti’s latest album, For The City, a six-song EP featuring Joe Moses, K. Ross, Xavii, and Chef Boy. Fetti’s journey has been a rollercoaster ride that has modified him to the exciting new star we witness today.
“Unfollow” has received tremendous praise across social media. A YouTube user commented, “Certified banger [fire emoji],” while another wrote, “King in the making [fire emoji] [crown emoji].”
Watch the new video below, and afterward, follow HussleBoyFetti on social media for daily updates and more.