In the course of a few months, Lil Xan has been taking off. The Southern California rapper has seen the success of his “Betrayed” single completely change his life, already tallying a whopping 87 million views on YouTube as of now. The track is being played on satellite radio, terrestrial radio and has catapulted him to the forefront of the anti-Xanax movement in rap right now. In a quick visit to New York, Xan stopped by MTV’s TRL to talk about how he got to this point and what he’s hoping to accomplish. Joined by Tyra Banks, he told the Times Square audience the story of how one tweet recently sent 2000 fans looking for him in his hometown of Redlands, CA and how in the end, it just started a riot. He also talked about what XANARCHY stands for and why his name is not Alexander. Mrs. Banks also taught him how to “smize” (see: smile with your eyes). And of course, he took the stage and performed his break-out song “Betrayed” for the crowd in attendance. 

As South Central rapper Bale preps for the release of his aptly titled project Hard Times Shaped Me, it’s impossible not to look back at this young emcee’s inexplicable and superhuman recovery from a nearly fatal shooting. In this video the young rapper will address the unfortunate shooting that riddled him with 28 shots from head to toe and the track will be featured on his aforementioned upcoming project. Breaking down the harsh realities of getting shot and his struggle to recovery Bale explains how music and his passion to tell his story would be the reason he survived. Now with the horrors of the past in the rear view, Bale takes fans on a trip to see what a day in the life looks like in South Central with his visual for “Check.” From the barber shop to the food spot to kicking back with his friends in the back of a pick up truck, Bale shows that he down to earth and humble, yet cool under the harshest of circumstances.  At his side and mentoring him along the way is West-Coast mainstay Krondon, who eagerly entered into a business partnership with the young South Central upstart who impressed him with his story and ability to create meaningful music.  The release of the project comes on the heels of Krondon’s premiere appearance and role as Tobias Whale in CW’s interpretation of the famed 1970’s DC Comic Black Lightning. 

Friday On Elm Street dropped last year but the two NYC vets give us a fire new visual to accompany the intro to the project. Peep it as Fab and Jada get their scary on shedding victims blood! ​ ​

“Sativa” (Remix) is the next single off Jhené Aiko’s newest project and features the addition of Rae Sremmurd’s Slim Jxmmi for the official remix. The track is uut now on iTunes and features an accompanying music video set for debut at 4:20 p.m. across the world.

​ Young Money’s latest signee, Jay Jones delivers his 2000 Hollygrove standout “Go Crazy” featuring fellow New Orleans native and mentor Lil Wayne. The Swede-produced (of 808 Mafia) collaboration, finds the seasoned rap veteran and the rising rap authority trading some top-tier bars for just over three minutes. Stream the single as well as the project in its entirety below and purchase it via iTunes here.

“Aren’t U Glad You’re U” is out now, and to coincide with the release Domo is sharing a video for “Me Vs. Me” taken from the new project. The previously unannounced “Aren’t U Glad You’re U” follows Domo’s last mixtape Red Corolla, released this past June, and his debut album Genesis which released in March of 2016. The new mixtape is executive produced by LA producer Evidence, who is noted for his past work with The Alchemist, Sid Roams, and Jake One. Watch “Me Vs. Me” above, and find full details on the new project below: Me Vs. Me Shaq Carried Kobe (feat. Phonte) Free Krik BBB Sing Me A Song Brake F### a Co-Sign (feat. Evidence) Hood Famous

​Known as Carol Rodriguez in the sports world as “The Fastest Women in Puerto Rico,” Carol Cake (her alter ego) is shifting gears as she preps for her music debut with ‘7 Candles’ EP in March. Teaming up with Atlanta songwriter and producer Omega Tha Kid and Chad Wells who serve as the project’s executive producers, Carol Cake readies the release of ‘Pay Up’ serving as the first single. Giving vibes of Lil Kim in the 90’s, Carol is out to win another race and is carving her own lane with her New Orleans, Hollywood and Puerto Rican influences. Set to add to the flare of new female Hip-Hop artists currently out, Carol Cake picks Chris Brown’s ‘High End’ to let the world know what she has in store on her debut project and that she can kill any track, musically and physically.

Skyzoo’s new project In Celebration of Us could be the most layered and most important work to date in Skyzoo’s distinguished career. The new album was produced by Illmind, Apollo Brown, Daringer, Marc Nfinit, Cardiak, Tuamie, Ave P###., Seige Monstracity, and Arte Mitchell. No rap features, Skyzoo got enough raps.

Returning to the scene amidst a turbulent political climate, Detroit-born rapper/producer Black Milk announces FEVER, his upcoming studio album. Black Milk’s sixth solo rap album, and his first since 2014’s If There’s a Hell Below. A cohesive 12-track project, listening to FEVER evokes the feeling of scrolling through an endless news feed, finding Black Milk reporting and commenting on the world’s problems with empathy, clarity, and wit. “Everybody’s temperature is up right now. The whole world is on edge. This album is my take on the issues I see as the cause for the high temp, and how I’m maneuvering through it,” Black Milk said. Check out the first single from Black Milk’s album FEVER titled “Laugh Now Cry Later”:

Planet Asia helped jump-start the West Coast independent hip-hop movement and has solidified himself as one of the most consistent and respected MCs in the game over his 20+ year career.    Asia releases the last leak from the project, “Fast Not Slow,” with an appearance by the legendary AZ.   Stream Planet Asia f/ AZ “Fast Not Slow”:

Listen now as the moms of two toddlers discuss everything from miscarriages, delivery stories, circumcision, recovery, weight-loss, seasonal clothes shopping, maternity leave, dealing with social media, baby savings plans, dealing with the grandmas, childcare, items they can’t live without, and more! Toya said, “This podcast means a lot to me because the content alone has a lot to do with the one thing I love most in the world, and that’s my son. I chose to do this podcast with Chanel because we were both blessed to experience the same blessings at the same time and it just made perfect sense to collab on this project.” “You dont have to be a mom to listen says,” says executive producer Andrew “Dominican Drew” Veras, ” This is real life.” Dominican Drew is also an Executive Media Producer at Beats 1 on Apple Music. “I’m excited to share these experiences with new moms so they never feel alone, no matter what the topic. Plus, it never feels like work when you’re doing it with your best friend.” Notable guests to include experts in psychology, healthcare, celebrity guests, and more.  Listen to A Mommy Cast Here > or via aMommyCast >

On a Thursday evening, in New York City, Axel Leon, rapper from the Bronx, held his Private Listening Event at Jimmy’s NYC located in Midtown. The event was hosted by Steve Rifkind of Loud Records in honor of Axel Leon’s latest project Juicus Christ and new mixtape Liv Loud.  Press and media filled the room at Jimmy’s NYC in anticipation for the evening. The event began with the serving of delicious hors d’oeuvres and refreshing beverages. Steve Rifkind provided a prudent introduction for Axel and his future in the music industry. “Jim Jones introduced me to Axel at the BET Hip Hop Awards and said to me, if you are going to start Loud Records again, I have the perfect artist for you,” said Steve Rifkind, “And that brings us here!” Axel Leon took the crowd through his Liv Loud mixtape which had the entire room locked into a vibe full of head nods to show appreciation of his talent. Shortly after, tracks from his recently released project, Juicus Christ were played and received the same gratification, with Axel rapping every word full of energy for his music.  Mecc of AllHipHop said, “One of the most exciting lyricists of the modern era. I expect great things.” “Axel has always been ahead of his time it’s such an amazing experience watching him flourish in this industry that feared his talent since he was a toddler,” said Buda the Future, “He’s just getting warmed up his work ethic and talent is alien like for years it’s been a disservice not being able to hear his music amongst the A-Listers but now it’s gonna be crazy his potential is great now I have to grab the popcorn and watch the masterpiece unfold.” “Axel visceral lyricism is a breath of fresh air during a time when bars are devalued. Every line from him feels like its leading up to something clever and impactful,” said Keith Nelson Jr of Digital Trends. Other notable guests included: Music Manager Jimbo, Owner of Fader Magazine Rob Stone, Head of Urban Programming Yomi Desalu, Recording Artist and Activist Mysonne, Recording Artist Younglord, DJ Michael Medium of Hot 97, Recording Artist Willy Dope, DJ NOE, Terrel Blair of HLM Media, Cynthia Horner of Juicy Magazine, Jakk Doe, Rocko Rathon, Johnny Nunez, and more.  Listen Now >

Directed and shot by the acclaimed Director X and French Montana, the cinematic visual depicts French as he goes home to Morocco. French partnered with Samsung to bring life to the video which explores the magic of the country and nuances of its culture as he introduces an overview of this inspiring landscape. Meanwhile, the simmering beat, slight North African twang, and unshakable chant—“I’ll always love you”—comprise the perfect soundtrack to these real moments in the artist’s life. It also amplifies awareness of his growing philanthropic efforts across the globe. During the production of “Famous,” he met with dignitaries and politicians in order to further humanitarian change in the country. Right now, he’s diligently working on implementing a social initiative to benefit Morocco similar to his recent success in Uganda. Joining forces with Sean “Diddy” Combs and The Weeknd, French impressively raised over $500,000 to benefit the Suubi Health Center in the community of Budondo. The Center services a community of over 300,000 people in need. As a result of this donation, the establishment now includes new staff quarters, a birthing house, and a prenatal care clinic, while salaries have been paid. Moreover, French ignited the start of another project, breaking ground on the brand new Suubi Hospital—details forthcoming.

The controversy caused by H&M putting a young black model in the “Coolest Monkey in The Jungle” hoodie wasn’t lost on the triple M crew. Before the parents of little Liam Mango came forward and revealed themselves as complete sellouts, @K_Lavenne & @mrmecc sat with former @LoveHipHopVH1 reality star and BBOD co-d @MsMoeMoney to talk race, relationships and more Check the technique! #HipHop #Music #MC #Meccahnism #BodyBawse #MMMKPodcast #HM #Monkey #hoodie #Model #Dreamdoll #Relationships #Advice #threesome #Melanin #Reality #LoveAndHipHop #Rap #Solo #Treach #NaughtyByNature #StevieJ #Fight #Boyfriend #Breakup #Booty #fight #Radio #Relationships #BBOD #ASAPMob #Group #GrammyAwards #NickyMinaj #LiamMango #TheWeeknd #Diddy #LeBronJames #GEazy ​

Ty Dolla Sign just dropped a new video called “Ex” with YG, directed by David Camarena. Take a look at the video.

You know, for someone who lives his life between a few different television shows, #SafareeSamuels has a lot of unknowns in his mix. Is he a genuinely a fun-loving good guy or genuinely a full-of-himself jerk? Does he honestly miss his ex or is he ready to move on to the next? (or both??) Is #RealityTV the dream or just part of a scheme? Is he laughing at #MeekMill’s mess or wishing him the best? Does he care about rapping or is this more about thirst-trapping? And will these rhyming descriptions ever end?? THAT ONE we have the answer to. For the rest, including who thought he was #gay, @IAmSafaree sat with @K_Lavenne & @mrmecc to empty the #FurCoatVol1 clip. Strap in, it’s a RIDE! Check The Technique Here! #HipHop #Music #MC #Meccahnism #BodyBawse #Safaree #LoveAndHipHop #LoveAndHipHopNY #LoveAndHipHopLA #ScaredFamous #MeekMill #NickiMinaj #Podcast #Relationship #Advice #Sex #Threesome #Aries #Taurus #Cancer

After a few sneak peeks and a lot of anticipation, Rare Sound’s official disc jockey, DJ Genius, has unleashed his debut album A ’98 Story, available now on all streaming platforms. The 15-track body of work includes features from K CAMP, Sonny Digital, Kap G, Hoodrich Pablo Juan, Eearz, Money Man, Sy Ari Da Kid, Ray Jr. and more. Production assistance came mostly from Rare Sound producers Bobby Kritical and Musik Majors, but there was added production from DJ Plugg, The Hybridz, JV and more In 1998, Genius migrated to the United States from Jamaica, making East Atlanta his new official home. Forced to adapt to a new world, Genius embraced Atlanta’s hip-hop culture and the music scene that came with, which reminded him of the live organic energy back home. This transition inspired Genius to release a series of collaborative albums: A East Side Story (2016) and A Come Up Story (2017), which now leads to his current release, A ’98 Story. Two years in the making, Genius has mastered the architect of creating records by fusing artists from different genres, while injecting his energy-filled vocals throughout each track.  The rest of this year will consist of more new music and new visuals from A ’98 Story, several show appearances for Genius and the Rare Sound team, and much more. Stay tuned!

Raised in Atlanta’s notorious section of Kirkwood, cousin to Future and Bossman Casino, the street poet has seen it all. That’s why he’s the perfect man to lead the youth. Today, Atlanta trap rapper 550 shares his personal story with his “All On Me” music video. 550 opens up about hustling in the streets and ending up in the penitentiary. His family kept him focused when he was down and motivated him to share his testimony through music. The against all odds song will appear on his forthcoming album Hoodlum releasing via CKP Records onJanuary 26th. Hoodlum features collaborations with Future, 21 Savage, Yung Mazi, Will A Fool, KC Da Beatmonster and more. 550 explains, “Prison was the closest thing to death… living without your family. All them sleepless nights in the hole, trying not to fight so I can get back to my kids. When I got out, my cousins Future and Casino encouraged me to get into music with them. It made me remember where I came from and how we grew up together. I counted my blessings and realized it’s All On Me.”

Enraged by yet another racist image of young Liam in the H&M ad and the disparaging narrative that America enforces on our black youth, Hip Hop Artist, Songwriter and Social Activist Chris Classic wants to ignite social change by rewriting his own story. For almost two decades Chris Classic has been behind the scenes working with dozens of award-winning artists, winning an American Music Award himself in 2008 for best Soundtrack along with both platinum and gold sales certifications. However, despite his overly impressive music talent, Chris is best known socially for being a shining example of black fatherhood, and for speaking up against police brutality and black oppression. In “Coolest Monkey in the Jungle”, Chris forces listeners to confront the hurtful narrative that has defined their own life, re-identify their own truth, and step into their own greatness. Chris enlists the inspiration of Oprah, Issa Rae, Ava Duvernay, Lena Waithe and Lebron James. He pays homage to the talent of Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Migos, Uzi Vert, Dave East, Lil Yachty and Cardi B alike, believing that no matter what your story or background is, greatness should be acknowledged and there is no need to tear down other Kings and Queens. Check The Technique Here. Check the Soundcloud Here ​

Rappers A$AP Rocky and Famous Dex came together once again to finally drop the long anticipated music video for their hot single, “Pick It Up.” The AWGE/Hidji Films directed visuals took place in New Jersey with Dex and A$AP submerged in an crazy flea market, surrounded with beautiful women and bootleg fashions.