Chicago emcee-turned-podcaster and radio personality  Monsoon Staraw is back in his musical element with a new single, “Dat Auntie’s Joint.” Produced by the talented Deka Derse, the track marks Monsoon’s return to music after stepping away to focus on his podcasting platform, The S.H.I.T.T.S Podcast, which has gained significant attention in Chicago’s underground scene.

“Dat Auntie’s Joint” delivers a fresh energy that contrasts sharply with the aggressive and hard-hitting style of Chicago’s Drill music, which has dominated the city’s sound in recent years. While Drill’s dark, intense beats and raw lyrics have put Chicago on the map globally, Monsoon’s new track offers something entirely different: a feel-good, party-ready anthem that evokes the nostalgic vibes of family gatherings and good times spent with loved ones.

The song’s title, “Dat Auntie’s Joint,” immediately gives a sense of familiarity — a nod to the kind of soulful, funky music you might hear blasting from an auntie’s house at a family cookout or holiday party. Monsoon infuses the track with warmth, humor, and an old-school groove, showcasing his versatility as an artist. The upbeat rhythm and catchy hooks make it clear that  Monsoon Staraw isn’t just about the street narratives; he’s ready to celebrate and have a good time with your “auntie”.

This new direction represents a shift in Monsoon’s musical evolution. Initially gaining recognition as a solo artist and later as part of The Network Crew (alongside Marcgee, Bruce Blacc, Pr’ism, Streetwhyz, ILL4Real, and Kolossus), Monsoon has always been a storyteller. However, with “Dat Auntie’s Joint,” he’s trading in the street-centered, high-energy delivery of his past for a more uplifting, yet still infectious, sound. It’s a bold departure from Drill’s grim narratives, offering listeners a chance to dance and vibe without the heavy subject matter often associated with Chicago’s current mainstream music scene.

“Dat Auntie’s Joint” is a celebration of both  Monsoon Staraw ‘s return to music and a reminder that Chicago’s musical diversity goes beyond Drill. It captures the essence of Chicago culture: rich, multi-layered, and constantly evolving. Whether you’re a longtime fan of  Monsoon Staraw’s work or new to his sound, this single is sure to resonate with anyone looking for a new vibe to groove to in the Windy City.

Step into the cinematic world of “One Of A Kind”, a gripping secret agent story brought to life by pop-rap innovator Star2 and Thai superstar SPRITE.The music video follows SPRITE and Star2 as they take on the roles of stealthy operatives hired by a rich businessman to free his kidnapped daughter from shadowy captors. Dressed in tactical ninja attire that fuses street style with spycraft, they engage in a high stakes mission to track down their targets and bring the daughter to safety. Their daring escape unfolds on a longboat gliding through Bangkok’s iconic Chao Phraya River. SPRITE displays his rap talent and rapid-fire lyrics. Star2 complements him with his emotional delivery and trademark melodic style. Beyond the action packed visuals, their collaboration weaves a poignant narrative that reflects on shared struggles with poverty, early age responsibilities, and the challenges of rising to fame.

Star2, a fan of SPRITE, reached out to collaborate after releasing a single with Luh Kel called “I Wanna Get F’d Up” – coincidentally, SPRITE’s favorite artist since Luh Kel’s hit song “Wrong” – leading to an introduction and, as fate would have it, a collaboration in Thailand where the trio filmed “Where Would You Go?” (out on January 17, 2025), while Star2 and SPRITE also created “One of a Kind”.

Lil MC, the Latina powerhouse popping out of the Bay Area is back with Flex Máquina, a 15-track album that redefines genre boundaries. Known for her fierce lyrical dexterity and smooth bilingual flow, Lil MC’s latest project solidifies her place as a cultural force in the industry. Seamlessly transitioning between English and Spanish, she brings a vibrant energy to her art that few can match.

With standout singles like “CumBack” featuring Hd of Beardface, “They Don’t Need Me,” and “Tormenta” with ZZay and Zenaloa, Flex Máquina is a musical journey through beats, stories, and emotions that resonate with hip-hop heads and new listeners alike. Opening up October strong, Lil MC’s highly anticipated album arrives as a statement, an expression of resilience, and a testament to her indelible impact on hip-hop.

Emerging from Oakland’s dynamic rap battle circuit, Lil MC quickly carved out her space as one of the underground scene’s most prominent voices. Her commanding stage presence and quick-witted verses have set her apart, earning her spots alongside icons like Jacquees, Too Short, and E-40. Fans who have witnessed her ceiling-shattering career, have experienced an artist who is both authentic and unapologetic.

Lil MC is not only a top-tier lyricist but also a trailblazer in production, standing among the 3% of female music producers globally. Since 2018, her beats have enhanced her artistic reach, adding a self-produced edge that amplifies her impact. Her commitment to hip-hop goes beyond the studio; she’s a passionate advocate for education and empowerment. Through her Women’s Empowerment Hip Hop curriculum at the Oakland-based nonprofit Hip Hop For Change, Lil MC is inspiring the next generation, teaching kids to create beats with block coding, sparking creativity and confidence in young artists.

As an internationally recognized Cultural Ambassador of Hip Hop for the U.S. Embassy, Lil MC promotes Bay Area artists while advocating for women’s empowerment in music. In 2020, she founded Queens of the Underground, a platform uplifting women’s voices in the industry, and her role as a voting member of the Bay Area Recording Academy chapter highlights her deep commitment to the art.

From video game features to Billboard placements, Lil MC’s influence reaches far and wide. Now’s the time to dive into her latest lyrical offering, Flex Máquina. In doing so, immerse yourself into her world. With every beat and bar, Lil MC inspires, uplifts, and pushes the culture forward. Press play, and let Lil MC take you on a bicultural sonic journey that’s as powerful as it is personal.

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