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KilahNailedThat Interview: Beginnings, Working w/ Cardi B, What’s Next + More

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With the rise of social media, came the change of our status quo. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and others are essential in today’s world for practically any business to succeed, no matter how big or small. Additionally, as social media grew in popularity, so did the number of young, independent business people in a variety of industries, such as music, fashion, art, cosmetics, you name it.

Having said that, today we’re here to highlight Akilah Williams, a growing, young CEO in the field of nail technicians. She is currently based in Brooklyn, New York, with her own office for her brand, KilahNailedThat, that she launched in April 2021. Since then she has been flourishing tremendously.

Below is an exclusive 4shoMagazine interview with Akilah; she speaks on her beginnings, choosing the career path as a nail tech, working with Cardi B, and where she sees herself in ten years.

Check it out in full below! Then I suggest you ladies reading, to book your next appointment with Akilah — and as for you guys– you now know where to take wifey for her nails!

What made you pursue the nail technician industry, aside from say, hair, etc.?

Akilah: “It dates back all the way to my childhood. My fondest memories as a kid was the time I spent at the nail spa with my mother. I was instantly so fascinated with the nail art. So much so, my grandmother bought me a set of pedicure tools one Christmas and it was everything for me. I was painting everyone’s nails .. even my father’s [haha].

I also always gravitated towards art, so from high school on, my life was filled with a lot of drawing and painting. So looking back, I was always preparing myself for a career as a nail technician in some way.

When did you start to realize this was the right career path for you?

Akilah: “The pandemic for sure. Ironically enough, it really helped me launch my career. As all non-essential businesses, including nail salons, were shut down and with more time on my hands, I began watching Instagram reels and YouTube videos. My first thought was that I could do this. Then I made a list of all the supplies I’d need and ordered them from Amazon. I began practicing on myself and close family members. I came a long way from my first set [haha].

“Although I was really bad at first, I continued practicing and with time I improved greatly. My passion for nails brings me a sense of calm and peace, which is why I decided to launch my own brand instead of continuing to work at Wing Stop and Primark. I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, even though I was a little apprehensive at first.”

You have definitely come a long way! You recently worked with Cardi B. How did it feel?

Akilah: “Working with Cardi B was such a blessing. It is an opportunity that I will forever be grateful [for]. I appreciate Cardi B for giving an upcoming Nail Tech like myself the chance to shine. This experience showed me that I should always be true to myself and never give up on myself, even when others doubted me and my talent. Cardi was so fun to be around, and being called back for a second time was the icing on the cake.”

Where do you see KilahNailedThat in 10 years?

Akilah: “I’m setting very high standards for myself. I expect to be a high-profile, celebrity nail tech.. and a [very] successful business owner. To the point where I expand to [at least] five full-service luxury nail salons. I also want to teach what I know so by then I will have obtained my state accreditation. Aside from training, I also want to provide employment [of course] as well as start-up capital for those who want to start their own business.”

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Jursula’s Journey to ‘I’m Running Away’ – A Transformative Rendition of Kanye West’s ‘Runaway’

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In the realm of music, inspiration often strikes in the most unexpected places, weaving a narrative that resonates deeply with both the artist and their audience. For Jursula, the journey to creating “I’m Running Away,” a reimagined rendition of Kanye West’s “Runaway,” was nothing short of transformative, fueled by a series of serendipitous encounters and personal revelations.

 The genesis of “I’m Running Away” can be traced back to a chance encounter at an airport, where Jursula found herself drawn to the haunting melody of a piano rendition of Kanye West’s iconic track. As she approached the musician, little did she know that this moment would mark the beginning of a profound musical odyssey.

 “I first consciously heard it on my way from Africa to LA,” Jursula recalls, reflecting on the pivotal moment that sparked her creative journey. “Someone was keying it into a piano at the Airport in New Jersey as I was going to get to my flight. I stopped to ask him what he was playing, and he told me it was a Kanye West song.”

 For Jursula, who had always admired Kanye’s artistry, hearing the reimagined rendition of “Runaway” was nothing short of revelatory. “I thought Kanye was an out-of-this-world genius before, but this song instantly made me see him on a whole new untouchable God level as he claims to be,” she shares, highlighting the profound impact of the music on her perception of the artist.

 However, the journey from Africa to America took an unexpected turn when Jursula was informed that her flight was bound for the Dominican Republic instead of her intended destination, LAX. Despite the setback, she found solace in the vibrant atmosphere of the airport, indulging in the simple pleasures of a classic American burger amid the chaos of travel.

 It was amidst this backdrop of uncertainty and introspection that Jursula found herself drawn to the familiar strains of Kanye’s “Runaway,” echoing through the corridors of the airport. “Something in me just knew, it was something raw,” she recalls, recounting the moment she decided to freestyle over the instrumental, capturing the raw emotions of her journey in a spontaneous burst of creativity.

 As she poured her heart out in the impromptu freestyle, Jursula found herself grappling with a tumultuous mix of emotions, from the pain of a broken relationship to the exhilaration of embarking on a new chapter in her life. “I was crying both of sadness and joy during the freestyle to the point I didn’t even know what I was saying anymore,” she admits, reflecting on the cathartic release of expression.

 For Jursula, “I’m Running Away” became more than just a song; it was a testament to resilience, empowerment, and self-discovery. “It was such a release song for me. I felt ascended, empowered, and free to not needing anyone,” she shares, embracing her newfound independence with unwavering determination.

 As she continues to navigate the complexities of the music industry, Jursula remains steadfast in her commitment to authenticity and self-expression. “I want to do crazy things like Michael Jackson did, go to India to learn balance, yoga for performances,” she reveals, highlighting her insatiable hunger for growth and exploration.

 With “I’m Running Away,” Jursula invites listeners into a world of vulnerability and strength, where every note serves as a testament to the transformative power of music. As she blazes a trail of her own, Jursula’s journey is a reminder that inspiration can be found in the most unexpected places, shaping the course of our lives in ways we never imagined possible.

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BraveSoull Arrives With An AfroBeats Fusion “Hate Me Now”

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In the colorful and ever-changing world of Afrobeats, a genre-hopping artist emerges with a single that not only captures the essence of the movement but also reinvents it, offering listeners a musical experience that knows no boundaries. BraveSoull and his resonating new release, “Hate Me Now,” brings tradition and innovation together.

Unveiling the Artistry of “Hate Me Now”

Since “Hate Me Now” made its seismic arrival, the effects are still being felt. The record, which is accompanied by a visually stunning music video, has shed new light on the season, infusing the scene with a dynamic blend of Afro rhythms and powerful, trap-inspired sounds that are nothing short of captivating.

BraveSoull, the trailblazing artist behind this amazing audio, is no stranger to the spotlight. His earlier works were defined by an unwavering creative vision, and “Hate Me Now” builds on that tradition with an extra layer of grit and glory. It displays the artist’s artistic development and capacity to both celebrate and transcend the genre he represents.

The Fusion of Past and Present

At its core, “Hate Me Now” is a modern take on Nas’ legendary hit of the same name, a 90s Hip-Hop track that features Puff Daddy which resonated deeply with a generation and is now given fresh life in a universe of Afrobeats by BraveSoull. This blend of past and present is more than just an homage; it is a revamping that pays homage to its origins while boldly venturing into unexplored territory.

In fact, the trendy track’s throbbing tempo, underlined by hard-hitting percussion and complex instrumental layers, sets the setting for BraveSoull’s lyrical talent. His delivery is nothing short of powerful, with words that pierce the air like a hot blade, delivering a message of strength and resistance. The song, which is both powerfully raw and precisely composed, addresses individuals who have been doubted and bruised by life’s storms, resonating with universal themes of empowerment and self-belief.

For a new generation looking for a voice that expresses their struggles and goals, BraveSoull stands up to the plate with a signature sound all of his own. His refusal to compromise, unwavering pursuit of authenticity, and dedication to his craft are evident in every note, making “Hate Me Now” an essential addition to any playlist.

In an age when mass production and commercial formulas frequently eclipse the essence of art, BraveSoull’s solid spirit is a breath of fresh air. His music serves as a reminder that, beyond the layers of production and performance, a song’s heartbeat is its soul, and “Hate Me Now” has plenty of it. For now, get familiar with this trailblazing talent here at 4Sho Magazine! Lastly, let us know your thoughts in the comments!

CONNECT WITH BRAVESOULL ON SOCIAL MEDIA:

INSTAGRAM | APPLE MUSIC | SPOTIFY | YOUTUBE

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OnlyJahmez Heads To SXSW

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OnlyJahmez is on the rise in the music scene, and he’s not slowing down anytime soon. His hit “Thug” has been catching ears and eyes, racking up over 143k views on YouTube. That’s a clear sign his sound is resonating with people, marking a high point in his journey this year.

But the excitement doesn’t stop there. OnlyJahmez is gearing up for something huge – he’s heading down to Austin, Texas, for the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival. This event is a big deal in the music world, a melting pot of music, film, and interactive media where artists from all corners come to showcase their talents.

SXSW 2024 is buzzing with anticipation, set to feature more than 350 artists, including OnlyJahmez. Being part of this lineup is a testament to his rising star, offering him an incredible platform to share his music with new audiences and connect with other artists and industry pros.

OnlyJahmez’s journey to SXSW and the success of “Thug” highlights a pivotal moment in his career. It’s about more than just music; it’s about making an impact, telling stories that people can connect with, and stepping into the spotlight on some of the biggest stages. As OnlyJahmez prepares to take on SXSW, fans and new listeners alike are in for a treat. It’s an opportunity for him to showcase his talent on a grand scale and for us to witness the ascent of a music star in the making.

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/onlyjahmez/

TikTok – https://www.tiktok.com/@onlyjahmez_

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