Category: Blog

Categories
Band/Artist Profile

Artist of the Week: Mulatto

The first time I ever heard of Mulatto was one year ago when she released the music video for her single, B**** From Da Souf, and I absolutely LOVED it!!! Bad b**** music is my favorite type of music. Mulatto is so raunchy and real in her music and it’s a breath of fresh air to have someone playing the game like she is. I didn’t start listening to more of her music until recently and I wished I started listening to her sooner! She writes her own lyrics and her flow with lyrical word-play is so smooth! Her type of flow and style of vocals reminds me of how DaBaby writes and raps his music. Those two on a track would be fire!!

Alyssa Michelle Stephen born on December 22, 1998 is an American rapper professionally known as Mulatto. She chose this racial slur as her stage name because she is a mixed woman. Her mother is white and her father is African American. She wears her mixed race with integrity and lets everyone know where she comes from. She talks about her life being mixed in her songs claiming that she is “too white” or “too black” depending on who she is around and hangs out with.  When listening to Mulatto, you can hear the pain and struggles she had been through, especially on the song “No hook.” I love artists who are real in their songs and discuss things that they have been through and what is going on inside their head.

Stephens was born in Columbus, Ohio and moved to Georgia at the age of 2. She was raised in Clayton County, on the south side of Atlanta. She talks about where she comes from a lot in her songs. She is also repping the south side of Atlanta. In interviews, Mulatto has stated that where she grew up was in the country side and that they have a close community. While growing up, she used to go to and participated in drag racing. Mulatto started rapping at the age of 10 and she quit school later on in her life to focus on her music career.

In 2016, she became a contestant on the Lifetime reality show, The Rap Game, produced by Jermaine Dupri and Queen Latifah. This show was set up like a boot-camp where aspiring rappers would compete against one another for eight weeks. Mulatto was the overall winner of The Rap Game and was offered a recording contract from Dupri with So So Def Records but she turned down the deal claiming that it wasn’t enough money. She then decided and continues to be an independent artist. She talks about this event in her music as well, talking about why she didn’t accept the deal and honestly, I am proud of her for following her gut and doing what was best for her. She did not want to be consumed by the industry and she wanted to have control of her music and what she released.

Since being on The Rap Game, Mulatto has released albums, Eps, singles, and has some features with rappers that were on The Rap Game with her and also some other female rappers such as Saweetie and Trina. For an independent artist, she is killing the game and is making her name known. These past few years have been great for female rappers in the game and I can’t wait to see what they do next.

So, if you like boujee, confident, pretty girl music, then Mulatto is the girl for you!


Discography:

Miss Mulatto (2016)

Latto Let ‘Em Know (2017)

Mulatto (2018)

Hit the Latto (2019)

Big Latto (2019)


Favorite Songs:

He Say She Say

B**** From Da Souf

No Hook

Longway

See Sum

ATL Hoe

What is your favorite Mulatto song?

Stay Metal,

THE SAW

Categories
New Album Review

Album Review: JGM by Lemaitre

Album: JGM by Lemaitre

Best Tracks: Wondering If I’ll Ever Come Down, Eyes Wide Open, Stop Me Fast

FCC Violations: Eyes Wide Open, Stop Me Fast

Lemaitre is an electronic duo comprised of Norwegian artists, Ulrik Denizou Lund and Ketil Jansen. Their newest release, JGM, reflects on life’s ups and downs and the celebration of life. The electronic group switched things up in this EP, adopting an indie-pop style and an extensive use of organic instruments. JGM is inspired by Johannes “Joe” Greve Muskat, Lemaitre’s “third” member who passed in 2019. Even though the EP is based in sadness, all four songs in the collection celebrate life in a perfect way to pay homage to Muskat.

“Wondering If I’ll Ever Come Down” is the lead single and my personal favorite track. It has a more indie Grouplove vibe to me that reminds you to love the life you’re living, which is inspiring. “Eyes Wide Open” and “Stop Me Fast” also maintain an upbeat mood while talking about overcoming loss and their struggles with grief. The use of organic instruments and electronic elements, like guitars and drums mixed with soft synths add an extra layer of emotion that indie songs normally possess, which makes this EP that much more special.

“Joe” is a special song that talks about Muskat specifically and tells the story of him as the third member of the group. I think this track ties together the whole EP and produces a sense of empathy and celebration from listeners.

I think this EP is a powerful message to listeners to enjoy the life they have and to celebrate the people in our lives, whether here or not, because they “never really go away.”

I recommend JGM for fans of Rex Orange County, Grouplove, and Tame Impala.

Categories
Music News and Interviews

Black Contributions to Music: Bluegrass

Continuing with my series about Black contributions to music, I am highlighting a genre especially important to those of us who are Southerners: bluegrass. This genre of music is another that is often dominated by White men, but it has been influenced by Black musicians who are typically not recognized for their achievements. 

Many features of Appalachian bluegrass were influenced by or originated from African musical traditions, brought to America by African slaves. A key feature of bluegrass music is its instrumentation, including the fiddle, banjo, guitar, and more. The four-stringed banjo actually originated in Africa, most likely West Africa. In the 18th century the banjo and music inspired with themes of freedom and religion contributed to the spread of African-American music like gospels and spirituals, which was especially influential to the sound of music in the South. Black people in America were the first to learn and perform with the banjo. Another facet of bluegrass, “thumbpicking” or “thumb style” of guitar, popular in the bluegrass genre, is credited to Black instrumentalist Arnold Schultz. Schultz influenced both the bluegrass genre and many white guitarists. Another influence to bluegrass is the vocal tradition and tunes. Much of the powerful, emotive lyricism and vocal traits originate from African musical influence, and the dance tunes famous in bluegrass are very similar to those of the African musical tradition. There are also many European contributions to the genre, but the African, particularly West African, influences on bluegrass are just as essential. 

Bluegrass is such a unique genre of music and is especially important for Southerners and the Appalachian region. It’s important to recognize its roots and the incredible influence of Black musicians and African musical traditions which have shaped the genre. 

To further your understanding, check out these quintessential Black bluegrass artists: Joe Thompson, Victor Wooten, Kaia Kater, and Rhiannon Giddens. 

Miranda

Sources: I, II

Categories
Playlists

Friday Favorites (6/26)

This week’s Friday Favorites segment will highlight some of my favorite songs by talented Black artists from the mid-1900s. Often these artists had to fight to break into mainstream music and were working against discrimination and racism. Despite their struggle, these artists all created amazing music. 

Grandma’s Hands – Bill Withers

Most of us know of the talent and impact of Bill Withers as a musician. He is an incredible songwriter, and this song in particular echoes familial love and gratitude. Its emotional lyrics pair with a cool R&B beat to create a memorable track. 

Mama Said – The Shirelles 

This is a really excellent song by this successful group which defined female vocal groups and helped influence the popular blend of pop and rock with R&B. This song is fun and upbeat with beautiful vocals and harmonies. 

You’ve Really Got A Hold On Me – Smokey Robinson & The Miracles 

One of my favorite Black musicians is Smokey Robinson. Smokey Robinson & The Miracles created some of the most gorgeous music of the era, ranging from love songs to Christmas albums. The group is incredibly influential to R&B and this song is so beautiful. 

Ain’t Too Proud To Beg – The Temptations 

The Temptations were one of the most influential Motown acts of all time. Their vocals are extremely memorable and influential still today, and this song is a perfect example of why the group is remembered as one of the best of the 1960s. 

Please Mr. Postman – The Marvelettes 

This song is one of the best from The Marvelettes, a pop-influenced Motown girl group with gorgeous lead vocals and upbeat lyrics and song themes. This one is one of the most well-known by the group and has been covered by many artists since. 

As always, you can check out this week’s Favorites and all the songs from the past weeks on this playlist on WKNC’s Spotify. Hope you enjoyed! 

– Miranda 

Categories
Weekly Charts

Underground Charts 6/23

Artist Record Label
1 EARTHGANG Mirrorland Dreamville/Interscope
2 TUAMIE Emergency Raps, Vol. 5 Mutant Academy
3 ASAP FERG Floor Seats RCA
4 SUPA BWE Just Say Thank You Freddy Got Magic/Empire
5 TOBI LOU Live On Ice Empire
6 YOUNG RJ AND MEGA RAN 2HANDSUP Ne’Astra
7 YOUNG THUG So Much Fun 300/Atlantic
8 SOLANGE When I Get Home Saint Records/Columbia
9 CASHINOVA Big Dragon Stophouse
10 KASH DOLL Stacked Republic

Categories
Weekly Charts

Afterhours Charts 6/23

Artist Record Label
1 CARIBOU Suddenly Merge
2 LONE Not Seeing Is A Flower [EP] Ancient Astronauts
3 YVES TUMOR Heaven To A Tortured Mind Warp
4 GRIMES Miss Anthropocene 4AD/Beggars Group
5 JAMES MASSIAH Natural Born Killers (Ride for Me) [EP] Levels
6 COWGIRL CLUE Icebreaker Vada Vada
7 JESSY LANZA “Lick In Heaven” [Single] Hyperdub
8 CHRISTINE AND THE QUEENS La Vita Nuova [EP] Because/Capitol
9 INDIA JORDAN DNT STP MY LUV [EP] Local Action
10 BUSCABULLA Regresa Ribbon

Categories
Non-Music News

Black Owned Restaurants to Support

Father’s day was last weekend, so I hope you treated the father’s in your life to some good food. The best way to do this: buy from one of these black owned restaurants in the area. I’ll list a few here, along with a short description of what kind of food they serve. A longer list, containing more locations in North Carolina, is linked below.

Bestow Baked Goods located at 4208 Lassiter Rd, Holly Springs, NC 27540 – Since Bestow is known to make desserts for a special occasion be sure to place an order for that special father in your life. Cakes, cupcakes, cookies, breakfast and pies: all your desert needs can be met here.

Boss of Vegan located at 2161 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC 27603 – If you’re looking for a vegan burger look no further. If anyone in the family enjoys eating vegan this is a great spot to order from.

Chick-N-Que located at 420 S. Main St., Rolesville, NC 27571 – This restaurant serves 100% N.C.-raised ostrich burgers, I’ve never had one myself but I sure want to try…but if you aren’t ready for it they also have a large variety of other chicken dishes to choose from. And they have a food track that goes around town.

Dame’s Chicken and Waffles located at 1823 N. Harrison Ave., Cary, NC 27513 – A personal favorite of mine, you can never go wrong with their unique chicken and waffle dish. Dames is a one of kind experience, with their various waffle spread flavors and a menu full of various vegan and vegetarian options. Anyone in the family can find something to eat here, making it the perfect place to order from for a special occasion.

Joyce and Family Restaurant located at 129 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 – This family offers some of the best home style country cooking in the area. Everything is made fresh and daily, they put their hearts and love into every dish. They also offer catering services.

As I said these are only a few of the great black owned restaurants in the area, links to find more are located below. If you order out anytime soon, these all make fantastic choices~

More Black Owned Restaurants:

Google Sheet of black owned restaurants 

 Black owned restaurants in Raleigh NC

Until next time

Let’s stay psyched and support the Black Lives Matter Movement,

DJ Psyched

Categories
Weekly Charts

Chainsaw Charts 6/23

Artist Record Label
1 AVERSIONS CROWN Hell Will Come For Us All Nuclear Blast
2 BENIGHTED Obscene Repressed Season of Mist
3 JUSTICE FOR THE DAMNED Pain Is Power Self-Released
4 END Splinters From An Ever-Changing Face Closed Casket Activities
5 VADER Solitude In Madness Nuclear Blast
6 MINDFORCE Swingin Chords Choppin LordsTriple B
7 SEED OF PAIN Flesh, Steel, Victory… Plead Your Case
8 CURRENTS The Way It Ends SharpTone
9 BEHEMOTH A Forest [EP] Metal Blade
10 UPON A BURNING BODY “Built from War” [Single] Seek & Strike

Categories
Band/Artist Profile

Artist Highlight: Neon Dreams

 

After hearing the artists newest single ‘Sick of Feeling Useless’, released May 7th, I decided to look into the artists a bit more. I absolutely loved the anthem styled tune and it’s message. It seemed to me that this duo is full of heart and on a mission to spread truth and shed light on what it feels like to live in the modern world. It only took a quick visit to the artists Facebook page to see that that is definitely the kind of artists they are. 

The artist’s music can be described as blending elements of pop, rock, and hip hop. The theme of the music, as stated by the artists, is ‘I’m gonna do my best to make music for people to heal to’. The duo, from Nova Scotia, had a change of heart a few years ago on the kind of music they wanted to create. This was following a life changing retreat Kadillace went on, after which he said ‘they helped me understand who I am’. The singer, Frank Kadillac, said he didn’t want to make music that just made people feel sad or worse, so he decided to change the style and use his music to try and help people instead. Kadillac said music was an outlet he always used for healing, and it makes him feel good when people reach out and let them know that their music is having the same effect on them as it had on him.

You can definitely hear this in the track I mentioned above. The headbanging chorus ‘Sick of feeling useless’ is simple, but punches right in the relatable feelings. Anyone who relates to the sentiment will likely enjoy the artists other similarly themed music.

The duo is really rising right now, as their most recent album landed them a Juno nomination for Breakout Group of the Year. The artist also had their cinematic debut with the track ‘Shape of My Mind’ which played in the opening scene of the movie Dangerous Lies. The artist has also been featured in Spin magazine and is continuing to grow in popularity. I can’t wait to see what they come out with next.

Until next time

Let’s Stay Psyched about Music,

DJ Psyched

Categories
Music News and Interviews

Black Contributions to Music: Classical

As music listeners and lovers, we may forgot the importance behind the history of music. In lieu of the Black Lives Matter movement, I want to highlight some of the incredible influences by black musicians to music in general through this series. We will start by looking at some influential black composers and influences to classical music by black artists. 

  1. Chevalier de Saint-Georges

Saint-Georges was the first classical composer of African origin. He was also a violinist and conductor of a leading symphony orchestra in Paris. He’s most remembered for composing many string quartets and musical compositions for multiple operas. 

  1. George Bridgetower

Bridgetower was an Afro-European virtuoso violinist. He began as an extremely successful young musician who traveled across Europe performing. He was a protégé of Beethoven, but is often forgotten in history despite his talent, most likely because of his racial identity. He also created his own compositions. 

  1. Florence Price

Florence Price was the first African-American woman to have her composition performed by a major symphony orchestra. Living in Arkansas with her husband, she faced much racial discrimination. The couple moved north after racial tension led to a lynching nearby, to Chicago, where Price completed her first compositions. Price’s music combines traditional European classical with melodies inspired by African-American folk music. Price and her work are often overlooked based on her race, so most of her music is not available online, though you can hear some of her compositions on YouTube. 

  1. Thomas Wiggins

Thomas Wiggins, known as “Blind Tom,” was one of the most well-known 19th century pianists and composers. He was a musical prodigy and was the highest paid pianist of the 19th century by the age of 10. He created over a hundred piano compositions. Despite his relevance during this time, he is relatively unknown today, especially compared to his white musical counterparts. 

  1. George Walker

Walker was an African-American musician who broke ground in the musical world, known for influencing the world of black classical music. He was the first African-American to win a Pulitzer Prize for music, first black graduate of his college, and first black musician to play New York’s Town Hall. He’s known for his beautiful and moving string compositions. 

Today, there is still obvious evidence of discrimination clouding the talent of black classical musicians. There’s still a blatant lack of representation within classical performances. Artists like Florence Price have reshaped the sound of American classical music despite the many obstacles; as listeners we must acknowledge their contributions and work against the institutional racial bias within music. Next time you are in the mood for classical music, remember the contributions of black musicians that shaped music today. 

– Miranda