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Lupe Fiasco Shares “AUTOBOTO,” the First Video from ‘DRILL MUSIC IN ZION’

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Known for his layered metaphors and perceptive point-of-view, Lupe Fiasco often sounds happiest when he lets loose and spits. Giving the visual treatment to one of the verbose tracks from his new album DRILL MUSIC IN ZION, Lupe shares the music video for AUTOBOTO.” Released as a single last month, “AUTOBOTO” is a mischievous, playful, and deceptively dense single that finds Lupe weaving his precise barbs around Soundtrakk’s arpeggiating guitars. In the hook, Lupe compares himself to a Porsche Carrera, a finely-tuned, performance-focused sports car that tears up the road like Lupe tears up the mic. In the “AUTOBOTO” video, Lupe drives around his hometown of Chicago in that vehicle, before parking the vehicle in view of the city’s iconic skyline. For the song’s final minute, Lupe beams out of frame and cedes the spotlight to Nayirah, who closes the clip with her melodic mastery.

The product of a burst of thoughtful spontaneity, Lupe created DRILL MUSIC IN ZION over a short period, diving into a folder of beats sent by Soundtrakk and emerging with a fully-realized album in just three days (“Sometimes deadlines are lifelines,” says Lupe). The album is home to highlights like “NAOMI,” in which Lupe fuses playful political analysis with poignant emotional resonance, and “MS. MURAL,” which continues a series of songs that started on 2014’s Tetsuo & Youth (“Mural”) and continued with his last album DROGAS WAVE (“Mural Jr.”), and the jazz-inflected title track, which slyly comments on how art created amidst strife becomes commodified entertainment for the masses. Released last week, the ten-track album earned praise from NPRComplexThe FADER, and many others, including Vinyl Me Please, who wrote “At their best, Lupe’s bars are as visually and phonetically pleasing as popped bubble wrap.”

DRILL MUSIC IN ZION is Lupe’s first new album since 2018’s DROGAS WAVEbut the proud Chicago native has already had a busy 2022, marked with sold out shows, new music, and much more. Last week, Lupe shared Galveston,” an Apple Music-exclusive track that explores the origins of Juneteenth. Lupe recently closed out his “Food & Liquor Tour,” a series of performances in which he plays his debut album in full. He paid tribute to his hometown in the reflective, self-produced 100 Chicagos,” and dug into the archives to share “Hustlaz,” a previously-unreleased song originally recorded before the release of the now-classic debut album Food & Liquor.

Lupe recently launched his “LFT” program, a new NFT program that allows fans to get closer than ever to Lupe. Unlike many NFTs, which solely exist in the digital space, the “LFT” program offers token-holders an array of online and offline benefits. The benefits start with a generative art profile pic–each LFT holder gets a unique digital artwork inspired by Lupe’s album Lupe Fiasco’s The Cool, which celebrates its 15th birthday this year. Beyond music, Lupe continues to focus on the community organizations he founded, including We Are M.U.R.A.L, The Neighborhood Start-Up Fund, Society of Spoken Art, and his cross-cultural content venture, Studio SV.

With DRILL MUSIC IN ZION,  Lupe starts another chapter in his illustrious career, but he’s not done growing.

“Your whole life you’re physically growing, and as an artist, I feel like I’m taller now,” says Lupe. “Not that I’m at a higher place of morality, it’s that my vantage point and perspective is higher. I can see further.”

DRILL MUSIC IN ZION is available everywhere via 1st & 15th/Thirty Tigers.

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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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Fat Trel & Millyz Drops “Airplane Mode”

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DMV titan Fat Trel goes on “Airplane Mode” with help from Beantown barsmith Millyz. Accompanied by a matching music video, the Kidd Slopes produced collaboration from the east coast emcees follows Trel’s previous releases “Right Or Wrong” featuring Kash Doll’s husband Tracy T and Sada Baby assisted single “Steppa.” Serving as the latest leak from his forthcoming album ‘Boosa’s Keeper,’ expected to be released towards the end of the Summer, the HD-clip finds the pair trading verses about everything from loyalty to downside of fame.

Fat Trel has nurtured and grown his organic storytelling ability with creative word play and pulverizing flow. Taking a raw approach to music, some would say as graphic and grimy as the streets of DC, but equally memorable and captivating nonetheless. He holds no punches and tells each story with such relativity they appear verbatim, in a matter of fact nature, that illustrates he is genuinely home grown and not caught up in the idea of being from the streets.

Martrel Reeves PKA Fat Trel was a child far more ambitious and cognizant of his surroundings than the norm. At age seven, he professed ambitions to be a rapper, while peers delivered the proverbial “I have a Dream” Speech about aspirations to be nurses, doctors, lawyers, and fire fighters. As peers sat excited by the endless possibilities of the future, Fat Trel sat perplexed by the harsh realities of DC; the place he called home. Fat Trel exited high school at age 15, caught up in the lure and necessity of street life; a road more traveled when the have-nots impose an immediate call to action. Unconvinced high school education would support his family or cultivate his ambitions, Fat Trel hit the ground running in pursuit of being an emcee and has not stopped running since.

Press play on the Nick Sheehan directed visual for “Airplane Mode” and stream the official audio on your DSP of choice below via ONErpm.

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Artist To Watch

Harlem’s Rising Star EB Sarr Unveils Captivating Debut Single and Short Film “Bitter Escape”

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EB Sarr

Meet dynamic new artist EB Sarr (@ebsarr). Hailing from the vibrant streets of Harlem, New York, he’s truly a multifaceted creative that understands how to get deeply personal with his audience. He just released his debut single and short film for “bitter escape.” Out now, stream here.

“Bitter Escape” is a funky, upbeat track that showcases EB’s skills as an artist who doesn’t fit in one box. On the making of this track, EB revealed that “The song reflects a relentless chase and the ways we try to escape it.” He continues by adding that it’s a song that “Everyone can relate to” on their pursuit of love, success, or other goals,” and various types of coping mechanisms, both healthy and unhealthy, amidst the chaos.

EB’s authenticity shines through not only in his music but also in his artist name, which is simply his real name shortened. “EB being short for Ebrahima. It’s true, it’s authentic,” he affirms. “I aim to honor my parents’ legacy through my craft and ensure my family name resonates for generations.”

Describing his sound to first-time listeners, EB promises the unexpected with a touch of funk. “Though I’m inspired and a product of so many things, expect me to bring on the funk,” he asserts.

With influences ranging from Michael Jackson to The Weeknd, EB Sarr is poised to make a lasting mark on the music industry. “I want to be the best, I want to do my best, I want to make an impact, and I want to do it with joy,” he declares.

As for what’s next, EB hints at more music and ideas coming to life, promising a new and distinct sound from Harlem’s newest pop sensation. “Expect flowerland. Expect EB Sarr,” he teases.

In closing, EB leaves fans with a simple yet powerful message: “Welcome to flowerland.”

For more updates and to connect with EB Sarr, follow him on social media:

Stream the new single HERE and watch the visual HERE

About EB Sarr:

EB Sarr, a visionary artist hailing from the vibrant streets of Harlem, New York, embodies a fusion of eclectic sounds and captivating visuals that transcend traditional confines. With a musical palette influenced by generations and genres, EB introduces a refreshing perspective to the realm of pop music. His journey through the industry promises an unforgettable experience, as he seamlessly blends elements of funk, soul, and contemporary pop into a unique sonic tapestry. 

EB’s artistry extends beyond the auditory realm, as his visually striking aesthetics complement his music, creating a holistic sensory experience for his audience. With each release, EB Sarr invites listeners into his vibrant world, inviting them to explore the depths of his creativity and imagination. As he continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, EB Sarr emerges as a beacon of innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of music.

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