Editorials
When Collaborating With Other Artists, Don’t Settle
Dick Grayson first suited up as Robin, Boy Wonder in Detective Comics # 38. Batman took the 8-year-old child under his wing, adopting him as a legal ward of the state. The Caped Crusader would morph the child into a valuable asset for the former’s everlasting battle for Gotham’s streets; forging a partnership that has withstood the test of time (the original comic came out in 1940). The relationship — up until Robin chose to become Nightwing — consisted of Batman taking the lead and Robin following accordingly. With Batman in charge, the two-man team soundly defeated ghoulish and criminal entities time and time again.
There was a reason for the duo’s continued success; besides the creativity of the comic’s authors penning the storylines. With the stronger hero and personality in charge, being Batman, Robin followed suit; finding ways to emulate Batman’s success and grow as a hero. This made proceedings fairly predictable but effective. Their track record, nearly unblemished, goes to show that someone taking the lead is much more effective than meeting somewhere in the middle ground.
In rap music, this kind of relationship doesn’t exist. In a genre defined by fake relationships, the concept of fraternalism becomes that much more important. The age-old mantra gifted to the public time and time again is that the industry is fake, rappers are bogus, and relationships are strictly for business purposes. It’s why genuine friendships constructed through industry experiences are celebrated by the media; Drake and Future’s unlikely connection — previously on the outs because of the latter’s comments about being better than the Canadian crooner — was the subject of many memes in its heyday. Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole, two artists of a similar ilk, are known to be close associates. Just recently, Lil Durk and Tee Grizzley publically declared their brotherly love for each other, becoming best friends in the process.
These types of relationships that form inside and outside of rap usually lead back into it in the form of collaborative projects. Friends, eager to celebrate and capitalize from their peers’ successes, hop in the booth together and give fans what they want from both; a best of both worlds collective effort that’ll surely knock the socks off of fans worldwide. Only, in nearly every case so far, results have been lackluster across the board.
Huncho Jack is perhaps the latest example of collaboration albums that stunk. Both artists have collaborated on a number of occasions, most notably on“Pick Up The Phone” from the former’s Birds In The Trap Sing Brian McKnight; Scott also credits Quavo for inspiring the name behind the album. Both have startlingly different recording styles; Scott uses autotune to support his zany rap-singing mix and warbles affectionally over constantly changing production while Quavo is silky smooth, primarily a trap aficionado who can drop a tone or two when necessary. The two’s consummation was heavily anticipated by fans worldwide, finally releasing on Dec. 21. While it does contain some bangers that will carry fans throughout the winter, the general consensus of the tape is that it is a missed opportunity. There’s a little bit of both worlds, but ultimately not enough of either one to be considered memorable.
When multiple star-level forces collide to create music, it often times results in a success — see “biebs in the trap” by Travis Scott and Nav or “Motorsport” by Migos, Cardi B, and Nicki Minaj. On single songs, the primary artist taps the other to meet them at their aesthetic, crafting their vocals to match their song’s intensity and style. The problem arises when artists come together to create a body of work without establishing a lead. A middle meeting ground solves nothing, only complicating the sonic message that both artists are trying to portray.
Drake and Future’s What A Time To Be Alive lacked the staying power to warrant it as anything but a passing fad. Drake’s intimate singing and rapping style contrasted heavily with Future’s more direct, yet spacey, method of warbling. The beat choices used on the project, a jarring mix of both’s preferred styles, only exaggerated this point, leading to some great recordings that followed into questionable ones. “Jumpman” was a rare feat that captured both artists in their best lights, while the following track “Jersey” lacked Drake entirely, presumably because he wouldn’t fit in on the Monster-esque production. On the very next track, “30 for 30 Freestyle,” Drake chimes in for a solemn outing, backed by softly-strung piano keys and muted bass. The contrast between the three tracks highlighted the fact that individually, both artists are amazing, but together, when trying to strike the right mix of both aesthetics, the two suffer considerably.
Perhaps the camaraderie that exists between artists is harder to marriage on wax then they let on to be. This would explain why Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole’s long-rumored project has never come to fruition. Or why artist and producer projects like Gucci Mane’s DropTopWop and Big Sean’s Double or Nothing — both featuring Metro Boomin as the projects’ beatsmith — often fair better critically than two artists collaborative works. Producers cater to the needs of the artist versus finding common ground. The latter would lead to some less than worthy results. Without the proper lead, the arrangements feel empty and barren. By this time next year, neither of these projects will remain remembered.
The enduring success of Batman and Robin as an iconic team, able to defeat nearly any villain in the history of the heroes’ lore, should encourage musicians to rethink their approaches to crafting collaborative projects. Huncho Jack should have been the talk of the town but has already received an alarming dropoff in appreciation so soon after its release because of the two powerhouses being unable to establish whose setting the stage for the other to join. It’s not about showcasing bravado or taking the backseat to the other’s arrangements — it’s about creating something wholesome that will be memorable for fans everywhere.
Stunna Sandy is one of the most exciting new acts coming out of New York City. The rising emcee has been solidifying herself by creating endless content and unapologetically being herself. Her swag and effortless charisma have made fans and supporters without worrying about what anyone else has to say.
Coming into her own with her latest drop, “No Waist,” the talented creator has been inspired by legends like Lil Wayne, Drake, Tyga, and the rest of the Cash Money/Young Money crew. Outside of Hip Hop, the up-and-coming rapper looks significant in other spaces.
Check out her exclusive interview below!
Introduce yourself to the world who does not know who you are yet?
My name is Stunna Sandy and I’m an artist from Brooklyn, New York.
What is the mindset behind your newest single?
When I recorded it I was just vibing and talking my shit. After I finished recording I really actually hated the song until we switched out the beat for a new one. It’s a different vibe for me because the lines are short and witty and that’s why I love it.
What do you want fans to take from your new effort?
It makes me happy to hear that people feel good to my music and just vibe. All my fans are growing with me so i’m excited for them to hear the different things i’m doing.
Where are you from? Also, how does your city help shape your sound?
I’m from Brooklyn, New York. That has a lot to do with my sound because I have a lot of influence from New York drill artists. That’s who I grew up listening to. I try to keep that New York sound but switch it up and hear it on all types of beats instead of just drill beats.
Who are some artists that influence your creative output?
I loved the aesthetic of rappers when I was growing up. I loved watching music videos from Cash Money or Young Money. But I also get inspired by a lot of the icons in music, like Rihanna. I love her style and how she carries herself. My influence is just a mix of what I grew up on.
What is your goal with music in general?
I’m just having fun making music that I love. I’m happy knowing that other people enjoy what I make.
Who are some of your dream collaborators?
I’m a big Drake fan so he’s definitely a dream collab. I also think Glorilla is hard and I would love to do something with her.
What’s coming up in the pipeline release wise?
I have so much music that I can’t wait for everyone to hear. Im experimenting with different sounds and i’m so excited to put it out. The summertime is my favorite time of the year so I’m planning a vibe for that. It’s definitely going to be a Stunna Sandy Summer.
Where can we follow you on social media?
@stunnasandy on Instagram and tiktok
@thestunnasandy on X
Making music ain’t just something you do for a day and call it quits — you’ll never take off like that. It has to be a lifelong journey, filled with dedication that makes you love what you do. Omega The Poet’s obsession with the craft, which began as a child, has evolved into a career full of creativity that’s been driven by his years of experience. From his early beginnings to owning a record label and his lofty plans in the future, Omega’s had and has it all figured out.
Everyone has a unique way that they discover music. For some, it’s experiencing what their parents listened to. For others, it’s randomly vibing to a song on the radio. Omega’s origins had a bit of a holier beginning. “I got into music by attending church,” he shares. “My introduction to music was unique in the sense that most of my ‘music-making’ abilities came from reading and the development of that skill.”
From there, he participated in a children’s choir, learning about different vocal registers—soprano, alto, tenor—and understanding the foundations of music theory. These formative years gave him an understanding about song structure that would prove pivotal to his development as an artist in later years.
Soon, Omega became a lyricist that didn’t find inspiration in whatever was on the radio. He studied musical legends for their craft and their personalities to discover what kind of artist he’d want to be — specifically André 3000, Wale, Frank Ocean, and Kanye West (before he was a dickhead). “I enjoy how unapologetically unique these artists are, how they push boundaries sonically, and their undeniable influence on the culture,” he explains.
In recent years, his inspirations have expanded to include experimental artists like Solange, Steve Lacy, Childish Gambino, and Daniel Caesar because of their fearless approach to music-making. “These artists have this ability to merge genres and create something truly special,” he says. “I want to bring that same level of originality and fearlessness to my own work.”
After the release of his debut EP Eros in 2020, Omega took a step back from releasing music — but now, he’s back with a reinvigorated sense of purpose. “Recently, I’ve been releasing songs that I’ve had stashed in the vault since Eros,” Omega explains. “My goal is to release one song of mine every month for the whole year.”
This consistent rollout strategy isn’t just about holding on to the huge and organic momentum that he’s building — it’s also about evolving and wanting his fans to experience his growth and versatility in real time. As he’s doing this though, he’s also working with others to develop their talent in an exciting way. “I plan to introduce the music of artists under my publishing company and record label, For The Record.”
Working as an executive producer and record label founder, he’s bringing something special with For The Record. “I drew inspiration from Kanye West’s former label, G.O.O.D. Music,” he says. “I loved the grandeur and exclusivity that surrounded that label.”
However, as he matured, he realized that creative vision alone wasn’t enough. He wanted to combine artistic innovation with solid business practices founded in realness. “It was a true step-by-step journey toward creating and solidifying my record label,” he explains. “But the idea was developed incrementally, and it’s like God revealed each piece I needed at the perfect moment to allow the business to flourish.”
Today, For The Record is home to a growing roster of artists, including Nylo Cash, Tajé, 7Reazon, and JSavv, with more names coming soon. They’re set to takeover this year, so stay tuned for this exciting new chapter.
With so much on Omega’s plate, he (and his label) are destined to make a definitive impact in an industry that often is only focused on making a splash. “I want to create music that resonates, that stands the test of time,” he reveals. “And I want to help others do the same.”
Hip-Hop thrives not only through the lyrics and instrumentals of its artists, but also thanks to those behind the scenes who uplift the culture. Managers, promoters, publicists, and—crucially—the media work together to amplify artists’ voices and ensure the heart of Hip-Hop continues to pulse. In today’s rapid-fire digital age, where trends come and go with each passing day, media figures hold a vital role in bridging the gap between audiences and the authentic stories driving the music.
One prominent voice in Hip-Hop media is Jacina Love. Hailing from the culturally rich neighborhood of Brooklyn’s Roberto Clemente Houses in New York, Jacina has become a force within the industry. Her deep connection to Hip-Hop began in the heartbeat of New York City, where the rhythm of the streets fueled her passion. Growing up surrounded by creativity, Jacina developed a love for the art that eventually led her to a respected career in the Hip-Hop media world.
Jacina’s journey wasn’t without its share of struggles. Overcoming personal challenges, she turned each obstacle into a source of strength and motivation. Her resilience shines through her work, especially in her interviews, which have become known for their depth and empathy. These qualities earned her a platform on DTF Radio, where she hosted her own show, bringing fresh talent and emerging voices to listeners.
Building on her success in radio, Jacina’s influence has continued to grow. She quickly became a sought-after host for music showcases throughout New York City, creating opportunities for countless artists to perform live. Expanding beyond radio, she brought her candid, engaging interview style to video and digital platforms, collaborating with renowned media outlets like Thisis50, Still Got The Juice, and Keep It A Stack w/ Biz Podcast, further amplifying Hip-Hop voices.
Currently, Jacina Love channels her dedication into her solo project, “The Pull-Up Show.” This platform offers raw, unfiltered interviews that give fans an intimate look into the personalities and stories shaping Hip-Hop. Her impressive lineup of guests speaks to her skill in sparking authentic, meaningful conversations that highlight Hip-Hop as not just a genre but a lifestyle, a movement, and a cultural phenomenon.
In a media landscape crowded with voices, Jacina authenticity and storytelling talent have solidified her as an essential figure in Hip-Hop media. She stands as a passionate advocate for the culture, ensuring that Hip-Hop’s true essence reaches its audience. As her platform continues to grow, Jacina Love remains a beacon for the artists, narratives, and music that make Hip-Hop a powerful, ever-evolving cultural force!
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