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Harry Martin: Re-Aligning Roller Disco & Hip-Hop

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Long before roller disco and hip-hop were even a thought, the trend of roller skating was beloved worldwide. The first ever pair of skates were designed in 1760 by John Joseph Merlin but would ultimately fail due to an inefficient structure. However, the potential of the new skatewear was quickly realized, and by 1819, French inventor M. Petitbled patented the three-wheel inline model.

It wasn’t until 1863 that Petibled would forever “revolutionize the roller skate” and introduce the quad skate that we all know and still use today. From then on, mass production would start, quickly followed by the opening of the first-ever skating rink in 1866 at a resort in Rhode Island.

For the next century, roller skating would be considered an activity everyone can enjoy: no matter age, gender, or race. However, as popular as it was, not even roller skating could break the white-and-black separation barrier. Even after the Civil Rights Act of 1964, skating rinks would still follow segregation precedents.

This would cause the black community to adopt certain venues as their own, including three legendary rinks in New York City. The Skate Key (Bronx), the Roxy in Manhattan, and the most legendary one of the all, EMPIRE in Brooklyn.

[Photos by Patrick D. Pagnano (1980)]

Ironically enough, a new genre of music in the urban world was rising in popularity in the mid-1970s within the City that included deejays and break-dancing with a more up-tempo sound; Hip-Hop. With roller skating slowly starting to lose its edge around this time, a revolution was needed once again, and the rising, new rhythmic was the exact piece necessary — and by 1979, roller disco was born.

The two sub-genres would help elevate one another tremendously. Roller disco transitioned rinks to upgrade their sound systems with DJ booths — and Hip-Hop would rely heavily on the fresh new atmosphere to showcase talent and break records. For years, the skating rink was the new nightclub, and similar to all other hotspots, that setting can attract just as much bad as good.

Violence would start to plague the roller disco world, and by the late 1990s, rinks were being forced to close. In 2007, the birthplace itself, EMPIRE, officially closed its door as well, marking the end of an era. And with the rise of technology and other sports such as baseball, basketball, and football fully thriving, roller-skating/disco was fading into a past-time hobby.

Nonetheless, a young entrepreneur by the name of Harry Martin is here to change that. Growing up in Crown Heights, Brooklyn, and once an avid skater at EMPIRE himself, Harry was there to experience it all. The rise and downfall.

Like many others, Harry would lose his passion for roller skating following the closure of venues and not skate for years.It was until a company party nearly a decade later at Lakeside Prospect Park, that Harry would rediscover his love.

[source: instagram/harryjrmartin]

From that point forward, Harry’s mission was to revive that feeling for everyone else; by 2016, he founded The RollerWave. Initially, the concept was pop-up rinks, as he hosted multiple sold-out events at Webster Hall, the Hudson Hotel, and the W Hotel.

Although he was finding much success, Harry’s ultimate goal was to provide a concrete outlet he and many other Black Americans once depended on. And what better place than in his neighborhood of Brooklyn?

On February 11th, 2023, Harry officially opened the flagship Roller Wave location in Atlantic Terminal Mall, directly across the street from Barclays Center. The 24,000 square venue houses a 9,000-square-foot skating rink, along with modern amenities and aesthetics.

Furthermore, Harry also made it a point to include elements of what started it all—art, disco lighting, and most importantly, the music: Hip-Hop.

[source: instagram.com/rollerwavenyc]

Hip-Hop started in the streets of New York City, just like roller disco. The two are synonymous with one another. We used Hip-Hop as an outlet to escape our troubles. It helped people tap into a source of light that’s inside all of us. 

It gave us a sense of confidence… and brought our communities together. That, in turn, started a lot of movement to fight the systems that keep us down. Everything successful is based on community.”

[cont.]

“Roller-skating has the same effect. It makes people feel whole again. Even as outcasts, we can find a tribe of people going through the same daily struggles and cope together in a fun, positive way.”

Harry has hosted multiple events synced with Hip-Hop in just four months of being open. Whether it’s with an artist or DJ such as Alicia Keys and Roxanne Shante, to the finale of Hulu’s Wu-Tang: An American Saga series with the cast, the trendy CEO always makes it a point to implement the soundtrack of the culture in some shape or form in the hottest new rink of the millennium. 

So the next time you’re in the mood for fun, fitness, and hip-hop, be sure to visit The RollerWave in Brooklyn- and lace up!

CONNECT WITH HARRY MARTIN

Official Website | Instagram

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Artist To Watch

Kerstin And Her Path To Solo Stardom Revealed Through “So Deep”

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Kerstin, an emerging artist in the R&B landscape, is captivating audiences with her latest single, “So Deep“. Known for her soulful voice and compelling songwriting, Kerstin is carving out a unique space in the music industry. Her new release marks an exciting chapter in her career, showcasing her talent in both vocal performance and dance.

Who is Kerstin?

For those unfamiliar with Kerstin, she is an artist whose roots are deeply embedded in music. Having spent her entire life on stage, she brings a wealth of experience and passion to her craft. She describes the studio as her “safe place,” where she can fully immerse herself in the creative process. This dedication is evident in every note she sings and every lyric she writes.

“So Deep” is more than just her latest single. In fact, it’s a glimpse into Kerstin’s creative world. She has always been committed to letting her music speak for itself, but with this release, she is stepping out from behind the shadows. When asked why she decided to show more of herself, she explained, “I really just wanted to focus on the music. Releasing music as a writer is important to me“.

The Visual Experience of “So Deep”

The official music video for “So Deep” is as mesmerizing as the record itself. It offers fans a preview of what to expect from Kerstin’s upcoming project, set to release sometime in summer 2024. The official visuals highlight her skills as both a vocalist and a dancer, presenting a bold and confident image that resonates with viewers.

Nonetheless, in her recent video for “So Deep,” Kerstin makes a powerful statement. The visuals are breathtaking, showcasing her talent and confidence as a solo artist. She had fun shooting the video, and this joy is palpable. The video provides a sneak peek into her forthcoming project and signals her intention to make a lasting impact on the R&B scene.

The Journey from Untitled to “So Deep”

Kerstin’s second project, Untitled, featured a moody green cover with a mysterious silhouette. Fans were enthralled by the medley of songs, drawn in by the allure of the unknown artist behind the music. Then, she had her single “Eyes” which served as a standout track, captivating listeners and leaving them yearning for more. With “So Deep,” Kerstin steps out of the shadows, revealing more of herself and her artistry.

With that being said, Kerstin’s dedication to her music is unwavering. She has been honing her skills for years, and her efforts are evident in her polished performances and heartfelt lyrics. Her ability to express emotion through her music is a testament to her talent and hard work. For now, get familiar with the trailblazing talent! Don’t miss out on the chance to witness the rise of an R&B sensation. Press play on her most recently released visuals and step into “So Deep”.

CONNECT WITH KERSTIN ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

Instagram | Apple Music | Spotify | YouTube

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Bravesoull Releases New Video For Drill Drop “Back A Wraith”

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Hailing from the concrete jungle and ever-evolving hip-hop scene of New York, Bravesoull is back with a brand new banger, “Back A Wraith“. Bravesoull’s hot new track not only stays true to the drill sound that has swarmed the industry as of late, but also carries a deep emotional undertone that pays homage to the artist’s journey and those he has lost along the way.

Staying True to the Drill Sound

Since its inception, Drill music has lured listeners in with its hypnotically boomin’ beats and infectious lyrics and Bravesoull brings these same yearned for sounds in his latest offering. Bravesoull has embraced this genre with open arms, infusing his unique style and energy into every track he releases. “Back A Wraith” is no exception. The song’s bouncy rhythm is designed to ignite a fire within listeners, making it impossible not to nod along or get up and move. 

What sets “Back A Wraith” apart from other drill tracks is its emotional depth. Bravesoull takes this opportunity to pay homage to those he has lost, including his cousin TDot, the creator of the Woo Walk, a dance that has become synonymous with the drill movement. The song is laced with references to staying solid as one rises through the ranks, a powerful message for any and everyone navigating through their journey of life and career.

Infectious Rhythm and Powerful Lyrics

The track’s infectious rhythm is one of its standout features. The production is top-notch, featuring pulsating beats that grab your attention from the first note. Bravesoull’s dynamic style and delivery shine through, making “Back A Wraith” a track that transcends boundaries. His powerful lyrics resonate deeply, reflecting the struggles and triumphs that come with the pursuit of success.

The backdrop of “Back A Wraith” is a masterclass in production. The beats are meticulously crafted to create a hypnotic atmosphere that draws listeners in. Each element, from the bassline to the hi-hats, is perfectly balanced, allowing Bravesoull’s vocals to take center stage. The result is a track that is both sonically pleasing and emotionally impactful.

At its core, the new release is about resilience and loyalty. Bravesoull’s lyrics are raw and unfiltered, providing a glimpse into his world and the experiences that have shaped him. He speaks candidly about loss, perseverance, and the importance of staying true to oneself. It’s a message that resonates with anyone who has faced challenges and emerged stronger on the other side.

Bravesoull: A Dynamic Artist

Bravesoull is no stranger to the spotlight. Known for his dynamic style and delivery, he has consistently delivered music that captivates and inspires. His ability to blend hypnotic melodies with hard-hitting lyrics has set him apart in the crowded hip-hop landscape. With “Back A Wraith,” Bravesoull continues to prove that he is a force to be reckoned with.

For those who are passionate about music, especially the pulsating beats and raw lyricism of drill music, this release is a must-listen. With that being said, if you haven’t already, be sure to check out Bravesoull’s latest video for “Back A Wraith”. It’s a banger that promises to leave a lasting impression and solidify Bravesoull’s place in the halls of hip-hop greats.

CONNECT WITH BRAVESOULL ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

INSTAGRAM | APPLE MUSIC | SPOTIFY | YOUTUBE

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Features

JORDI WINS RED BULL BATALLA SAN ANTONIO QUALIFIER AFTER AN ELECTRIFYING 

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FINAL ROUND BATTLE AGAINST FELLOW TEXAS MC CUBAN, BOTH ADVANCING TO THE NATIONAL FINAL IN MIAMI

This past weekend at San Antonio venue Paper Tiger, Jordi from Eagle Lake, Texas won the Red Bull Batalla San Antonio Qualifier, beating out 15 others to earn not only bragging rights, but automatic entry to compete at the National Final in Miami in October. Red Bull Batalla is the largest Spanish-language freestyle rap battle in the world, and this marks the 2nd time the26-year-old winner qualifies for the National Final.  

As the first U.S. qualifier event of the 2024 season, over 1,100 fans rallied to support MCs from the local Texas region and beyond. In a thrilling final battle, Jordi squared up against local Texas MCCuban, igniting the crowd’s excitement to see which hometown freestyler would take the trophy. Though Jordi takes first place, Cuban will also advance to the National Final along with runners up Boss fromLA and Yenky One, a former World Final qualifier who resides in Utah. Houston rapper Bo Bundy closed out the event with a performance followed by Mexico’s Tornillo who serenaded the crowd with hits like “Morena,” “Un Die Todo Se Termina,” and a new unreleased track. 

All eyes now shift to New York City where Red Bull Batalla will hold its first titled event in the Big Apple on July 13th with the second and final Red Bull Batalla U.S. qualifier event of the season. A new cast of 16 MCs will prove themselves for the ultimate prize – a chance to represent the U.S. on the world’s biggest stage for freestyle battle rap at the sold-out International Final at the WiZink Center in Madrid, Spain in November. 

For photos and assets from the Red Bull Batalla San Antonio Qualifier visit Red Bull Content Pool. For fans looking to catch the action, the full event replay can be streamed across Red Bull Batalla social channels including Twitch tomorrow, April 23 at 4pm PT / 7pm ET.

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