Paul Hoover – Totally Tubed

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“Totally Tubed” Rides the High on Streaming Platforms, Showcasing Dale Bushka’s Songwriting Techniques 

SAUGUS, CALIFORNIA – Dale Bushka is a versatile songwriter stepping out into the limelight with his original song, “Totally Tubed,” and getting noticed for his melodic lyrics and ability to appeal to listeners in numerous genres.  

“I am very creative,” said Dale Bushka, who’s been writing songs for 50 years. “When you listen to today’s songs, and, believe me, I’ve been listening to the newer songs. A lot of these songs are formulated. They’re the same song over and over again. But my songs are all different.” 

Bushka’s writing style is multifaceted, allowing his songs to extend into multiple genres. Pop, Christian, Rock, and Country songs are found in his songwriting discography. 

However, he is not looking to fill a particular musical style but related to fans with original music and heartfelt lyrics. Unlike other artists who write, sing, and produce their work, Bushka is a songwriter seeking a singer, band, and producer. Previously he worked with a friend who produced, sang, and performed on his songs. However, as life would have it, his friend pursued other career opportunities leaving Bushka, a songwriter, without a band. Not letting that stop him, Bushka is promoting the songs that have been produced in hopes of connecting to musicians looking for a songwriter.  

“Totally Tubed” is a fun pop song featured on YouTube that showcases Bushka’s songwriting abilities. Keeping summer alive throughout the year, the piece focuses on a surfer facing a giant wave who bails out ‘fore he wipes out. Not letting the wave get the best of him, he jumps back on his board and prepares for the next big wave.  

With a strong chorus and catchy beach-like vibe, the song is packed with fun. “It is just like surfing. It’s about enjoying and loving life. ‘Totally Tubed’ brings back that kind of fun and enjoyment everybody can relate to,” he said. 

In addition to “Totally Tubed,” Bushka is getting noticed with “Badass Jesus.” While the song title may indicate a negative take on Christianity, the opposite is true. “Badass Jesus” is an edgy punk rock song that strikes a chord with listeners. “Instead of being a passive song, it shows Jesus as a strong person and teaches us to be strong,” said Bushka.  

While Bushka is not seeking fame and fortune from his songwriting, he is passionate about his craft. “I create music, and I want to put it out there for everyone to enjoy. It is what I do and love.”


Make sure to stay connected to Dale Bushka for new music. 
 
Badass Jesus: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhyQrI7kfgM 
 
Totally Tubed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lc9DjJEbYQ8 

Joju – I’ll Miss You Too (Ft. Olivia Randle)

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Joju Merges Folk and Pop Melodies Mixed with Heartfelt Lyrics in “I’ll Miss You Too” 

FAYETTEVILLE – There are not many army drill sergeants who are musicians. Furthermore, most musicians are not U.S. Army drill sergeants. But for Joju, the combination works, and the result is musical magic on full display in his first studio album, “I’ll Miss You Too.”  

Intertwining traditional folk with today’s pop is at the foundation of Joju’s sound. Inspired by the early sounds of Mumford & Sons sans a drum set while adding an electric guitar, the signature Joju music is created. This, coupled with unforgettable hooks and relatable topics, compile the seven track album.  

Referring to a conversation with a friend, Joju said, “We were talking about how life is a powerful thing and sometimes, you make something into a song or put an experience into a song, and it gives words to people that don’t have any. Every voice is different – and this is mine.” 

The album’s self-titled track, “I’ll Miss You Too,” is a soulful folk reflection on life after a relationship ends. “A lot of times when someone moves on, whether you want them to or not, they have a big impact on your life,” he said. “There’s some people you’re going to think about long after they’re out of the picture.” 

Whether referring to a former lover or deceased family member, “I’ll Miss You Too” lets listeners know memories never die. 

Picking up the tempo, the party song “Callin’” has a classic old-school Mumford & Sons vibe. With the verse: “the rhythms knocking on my door telling me to get down on the floor,” “Callin’” focuses on living life on the edge. “This song is about a completely new experience and doing things that you’re not used to doing,” he said. “There are just some things that call out to you, whether it be something extreme like skydiving or something very simple. I want to connect with people who are trying something new and tell them sometimes just to go for it.” 

Perhaps “Callin’” is representative of Joju, a California native who attended business school, enlisted in the U.S. Army, was stationed in Alaska as a paratrooper, and now is an Army Reserves drill sergeant. Taking chances and following your dreams is the story of his life. 

While currently wrapping up work on music videos for numerous “I’ll Miss You Too” singles, Joju said, “Every time you hear a song, there’s something special in it. I’m not making music to be famous; I just love to make music.” 

Make sure to stay connected to Joju on all platforms for new music, videos, and social posts. 

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/joju/1592840330 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7pokjuvsX2n80blkRMY7ys 

YouTube Music: https://music.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_kZOsM2EY_r0l0jH8oEV0dvWmJUzYxtd_4 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joju_officialmusic/ 

Shocks Band – One Hit Wonder

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Shocks Band Blends Pop and Jazz in “One Hit Wonder” Album 

FLAGLER BEACH – The term “one-hit wonder” usually refers to an artist that has a hit and never releases another single to reach the previous song’s popularity. That is not the case for Shocks Band and their latest album, “One Hit Wonder.” 

The ten-track LP is packed full of fan-favorite original songs written and performed by Eric Whitman.  

“There really wasn’t anything new out in 2020 and 2021,” explained Eric Whitman. “So, I figured this was a good time for me to do an album because, with the pandemic, I was stuck home. So, I wrote all the songs.” 

“One Hit Wonder” is 100% studio work compared to the Shock Band’s 2011 album, “A Dedication to Alan Zill,” containing live tracks.  

Mixing pop music with some New Orleans style jazz, Whitman’s latest album hits all the right notes and gains popularity on streaming platforms and CD sales. While many fans enjoy the ease of streaming music, the “One Hit Wonder” CD is unique with its hand-drawn cover art by Whitman’s daughter Danielle Whitman. Additionally, liner notes credit the musicians who play on the album’s tracks, which fans do not get to see when streaming music.  

“I had music producers Nicole and Courtney with me in the studio, and I played with several other young musicians on the saxophone and lead guitar,” explained the Miami native who plays rhythm and bass guitar on the album.  

With its signature guitar riffs and some sweet melodies, the single “I Don’t Know (Voice)” is getting the attention of pop and rock lovers. The album contains two versions because when it’s good, why choose just one version – right?  

“Everybody seems to like it. It’s a really good song,” said Whitman. “I wrote the song because every time I turned the news on, there were all these unknowns. We don’t know about this; we don’t know about that. The song just came to me, and I knew I had to record it.” 

When asked if he got any of his questions answered, Whitman replied with a chuckle, “You’ll have to listen to the song; maybe it’ll explain it.” 

While “I Don’t Know (Voice)” is picking up traction on streaming platforms, Whitman said it is not the only “One Hit Wonder” song getting noticed. The album’s diversity appeals to music fans who enjoy rock, pop, and jazz.  

“It all depends on how I wake up in the morning. It’s like whatever comes. It’s just mine. I play it,” explained Whitman about his writing style. “I just go with the flow.” 

“One Hit Wonder” also contains “New Orleans,” a jazzy tune with a haunting tenor sax, while “Starlite” showcases a mandolin that “kicks butt.” But Whitman does not put his writing into a box to please fans.  

“When people see the ‘One Hit Wonder’ cover, they want to play it. I want them to have fun and enjoy the music.” 

Make sure to stay connected to Shocks Band on all platforms for new music, videos, and social posts. 

Website: https://ericwhitmanshocksband.hearnow.com/  

Amazon Music: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09HHLDLPK?linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1&tag=fndcmpgns-20  

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/one-hit-wonder/1588098924  

Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/us/album/262484202 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/4uNDVRQOBBDxvEwjTcJ4Ul 

Nikell Ariel – Only God

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‘Only God’ Hits Home with Nikell Ariel, Showcasing Raw Honesty

ATLANTA – Never losing sight of who she is, Nikell Ariel gets honest with fans in her latest single, “Only God,” which focuses on being truthful with yourself and your circumstances.

The charismatic, soft-spoken singer and songwriter embraces her past by sharing her struggles and melodic undertones throughout the song. “I’m into just keeping it honest. I’ve been through a lot, so my music is displaying things that I’ve been through, things that I’ve learned throughout my life,” explained Nikell Ariel.

When Nikell Ariel was a young child, her parents died from HIV AIDS. Instead of letting that define her life, she persevered by turning to music. “I prefer my music to be positive because I have just been through so much, and it is good to shed light on different experiences. God has been a big influence in my life because of the things that I have been through,” she added.

Many times, hearing the word “God” and music indicates a “preachy” gospel song, but that is not the case with “Only God.” In fact, “Only God” is a confident rap anthem that garners attention on streaming platforms. The music video is the perfect accompaniment to the song as it shows how life’s ups and downs affect people, such as drug use, domestic violence, and poverty. Meanwhile, Nikell Ariel looks on, rapping that life is what it is, and you must take responsibility for your actions, and “Only God” can and should make judgments.

“I wrote ‘Only God’ in the summer during the pandemic,” she said. “It was a chance to look at myself and what I’ve been through, what I struggle with, faith in His learning, and that I just need to depend on God. I want to express my struggles and let you know that we all just struggle with different things. When we recognize that, we see that we are all human – nothing is really that different.”

While “Only God” is a rap song, it is a testament to Ariel’s confidence, in-your-face charismatic hooks, and melodic undertones that showcase her ability to harmonize and change her voice.

Describing her latest hit, Ariel said, “It’s original, and it’s authentic. It’s just me. I’m not ashamed of what I’ve been through. It has made me who I am today. If I can get it out there, it’ll help somebody, even if it’s just one person – I’m OK with that.”

While Ariel is not planning on slowing down, she is releasing her latest single and music video. “I love doing music. It doesn’t matter about the money. I have just to keep it going ‘cuz it’s something that I love,” she said.

When asked about the song’s title, she replied, “I’m the coolest person that loves God that you ever (will) meet. And you know what? At the same time, I’m not here to judge anybody ‘cuz I’m dealing with the same things you’re dealing with right now. I just rap about it.”

Make sure to stay connected to Nikell Ariel on all platforms for new music, videos, and social posts.

SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-166964536

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2gNnD7T5QTn42fg6XKIc1c

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SiENjDvuU60

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nikellarielmusic/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikellariel/?hl=en

Twitter: https://twitter.com/nikellariel?lang=en

Bros Inc – Hide

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Bros Inc tap into pain of the streets on inspiring new EP ‘Bully Way Living’

BALTIMORE, MD – Ma’el and Yasha Muhammad – AKA Bully Boy and 410 YDB – are biological brothers who make up the dynamic duo known as Bros Inc. This powerhouse hip-hop duo is lighting up the East Coast with their unique swag and standout style, which is featured on their new album “Bully Way Living,” for which they already have a deal with RMG Music/Sony. Featuring 10 songs that showcase their hometown of Baltimore City, the album is one part an introduction to the natural talents of these two brothers, and another part a display of such originality that many industry insiders are starting to sit up and pay attention.

The songs on the album are inspired by real life situations from the lives of these two brothers. The way they weave stories and rap about how they feel about what’s going on today is inspiring and thought-provoking. Their style is also entertaining and ready-made for chilling with friends or having a fun night out on the town. In fact, it’s that kind of carefree lifestyle mixed with hard work and perseverance that these brothers say equates to “Bully Way Living.”

“It’s about doing your thing and living life how you want,” Bully Boy said. “Just do what you want to get where you want to go without taking anything from anyone. We living the Bully way, and this album is us letting them know what’s going on.”

The debut single from the project is a song called “Hide,” the video for which just hit YouTube on Oct. 14. It’s a song about people who talk the talk but don’t walk the walk. According to the brothers, there have been too many occasions in their lives in which someone has promised to do something for them, but then never made good on that promise. They don’t walk the walk. This song, therefore, is a challenge to anyone listening that “You gotta stand on what you got going on,” they said.

“All this Internet talk won’t get you nowhere,” said 410 YBD. “You gotta stand on it, because if you don’t we’ll find where you hide.”

Born and raised in the violent drug-infested streets of Baltimore City, these two brothers have experienced their fair share of pain and hardship. They’ve lost three older brothers – one of them killed by Baltimore police, one murdered by gang violence and one passing from a drug overdose. That pain and struggle comes through in every single lyric and vibe they create through their music. In fact, it’s rap and music at large that helped them cope with the hardships of their lives, and by using that artform as a natural outlet they discovered a unique ability to connect with others.

“We feed off that everyday life we’re living,” Bully Boy said. “When we go in that booth it’s like two people with one mind, and we’re rapping about things we’re really living out. Ain’t no fake. Ain’t no script to this. That’s why it’s so authentic. It’s so real and raw. It’s like we uncut. The game ain’t uncut anymore, but we’re giving the real out.”

“Hide” is currently available across all streaming platforms.

To listen to Bros Inc., or to follow them on social media, please visit the following links:
https://open.spotify.com/album/3NgfL6Uerg6y9jHi9oxJBo?si=LC29sM3bRUy80xluVS8KOQ&utm_source=copy-link
https://open.spotify.com/track/5BLi4ahPH2sRrPxPgao5ht
https://youtube.com/channel/UChG36MBB7QnDaGAit-ha8nw
https://soundcloud.app.goo.gl/ByYQp
https://www.facebook.com/BullyMusicRecords/

Instagram @
@Bullyboy.mael
@410ydb

Purzia – Sacrifice

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Purzia’s Debut Single, “Sacrifice” Focuses on Inner Demons

PHOENIX, AZ – With raw vocals and mesmerizing lyrics, American singer-songwriter and music video producer Purzia is making a big splash with her debut single, “Sacrifice.”

Dubbed as the WestsideMermaid, a nickname from childhood, there is nothing childlike about this 25-year-old artist. Purzia has the uncanny ability to blend her creative side with evocative lyrics to capture listeners’ imaginations and communicate emotions that many artists cannot fathom exploring.

Influenced by strong, independent female musicians, Purzia’s voice combines a husky but edgy Stevie Nicks and a sultry Billie Eilish sound. Her debut single, “Sacrifice,” dropped on Oct. 31, allowing fans to hear the alternative pop and folk melodies of Purzia.

“I love to dive deep into my mind and soul for inspiration,” said Purzia. “A lot of people struggle with addiction, anxiety and demons. They have to fight with an everyday struggle. ‘Sacrifice’ is about fighting that certain demon, that, no matter what happens, you need just to fight it. But everything’s going to be OK in the end.”

In addition to the single’s release, the “Sacrifice” music video dropped on Oct. 31. The video is a dark representation of a person’s inner demons. Coincidentally, dropping on Halloween, the video is not based on the spooky holiday. Purzia says, “In the video, the Devil comes out, and it’s about the Devil taking my soul away, but it’s not about the Devil.”

Using the Devil as a metaphor for addiction or inner demons, “Sacrifice” showcases Purzia’s ability to dig below the surface for an emotionally, in-depth song that translates into relatability with her fans.

“Everyone needs to know that it’s OK to be yourself,” said Purzia. “It’s OK to be authentic, unique and different.”

Demonstrating her versatility, Purzia’s second single, “Calling,” will drop in December and is quite different from “Sacrifice.” The upbeat pop song “Calling” is a fun track that shows Purzia’s unique ability to appeal to a broad spectrum of fans.

Connecting to her fans, Purzia is electric during performing. From exhibiting “crazy energy” while on stage to her Harajuku-style attire, Purzia is living her life her way, making a definite footprint in the industry.

Currently residing in Arizona, Purzia spent most of her childhood in a single-parent home in Turlock, CA. Citing her mother as her biggest supporter, Purzia said, “She supports me in my dreams, ever since I was little. That’s also where the mermaid name comes from. She said I had hair like a mermaid and a soulful voice.”

Coupled with the fact that she lived on the westside of Turlock, the WestsideMermaid nickname was born and continues to identify Purzia on her social media accounts.

Looking ahead to the future, she enjoys interacting with her fans and is eager for them to hear “Sacrifice.”

“I love my supporters for always pushing me to be a better me because this was not easy to do. Coming from where I came from, they’re the reason why I’m writing music and why I want to continue singing,” Purzia said.

Make sure to stay connected to Purzia on all platforms for new music, videos, and social posts.

SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/westsidemermaid

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo41vbRA39grVAELHSM8odQ/videos

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/westsidemermaid

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westsidemermaid

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@westsidemermaid

Pretty Tony – My Pocket Got Money

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Pretty Tony, the King of Memphis Hip Hop Returns to His Throne With “My Pocket Got Money”

LOS ANGELES, CA. – Pretty Tony is a legend in the Memphis rap scene. His beats, hooks, and style laid the groundwork for rap music that exploded into mainstream music in the 1990s. The classic rap song “GetBuck” was the theme song for “gettin’ buck” as fans were introduced to Memphis rap – and it was Pretty Tony who wrote, recorded, and produced the megahit.  

Currently, Pretty Tony is introducing another generation to his iconic sound with his latest single, “My Pocket Got Money,” which is on fire on streaming platforms.  

Inspiration for “My Pocket Got Money” came while Pretty Tony was surfing the internet during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I saw Lil Boosie talking about how much money he was making a month,” explained Pretty Tony. “He is one of my favorite rappers, and he’s talking about all this money. The guy next to me said, ‘he’s got a lot of money.’ And that got me thinking.” 

Hearing the comments and thinking about it, Pretty Tony knew he was on to something as he came up with a beat and booked some studio time in LA. “My Pockets Got Money” has re-ignited the reign of the King of Memphis Hip Hop.  

“With ‘My Pockets Got Money,’ I just want people to be inspired and let them know, don’t give up on your dream and not be motivated,” Pretty Tony said. “Stay motivated, and you can make it. You just got to believe in yourself and stay focused – and your pocket is going to have a lot of money.” 

Even though Pretty Tony is living in California, Memphis hip hop runs through his hooks and beats. Memphis rap has returned to the mainstream with its occasional lo-fi sound and minimal synth melodies, and fans cannot get enough.  

Growing up in a house filled with music, Pretty Tony knew he wanted to make his mark in the industry but wanted to do it on his terms, thus creating Memphis rap.  

“I knew I wanted to create my own style, and I’m going to go down and history,” he explained. “I knew I was going to make me and my friends famous.” 

In fact, it was Pretty Tony and his killer song, GetBuck,” that jumpstarted the careers of many rappers. Every platinum rapper out of Tennessee remixed my song GetBuck,’ and that’s what got their career going. Without Pretty Tony’s “GetBuck, you wouldn’t have Yo Gotti, Project Pat, Young Buck, 3 6 Mafia, or MC Hammer, who sold the first diamond selling CD – 10 million copies, after remixing my song’ GetBuck. These are all facts that you can Google. My song GetBuck was event remixed on the movie Hustle & Flow by Memphis rapper Al Kapone. I am the real first king of Memphis. 

In addition to the signature Memphis rap groove, Pretty Tony is well-known for his dance moves with swinging elbows and deep steps on stage while performing. “I’m a little bit wild and a little bit different, and it caught fire,” he recalled.  

While many mainstream rap artists have used his beats and licks, Pretty Tony has not received credit for it, but that has not stopped him. “I’m the rapper that they go to when they want to go platinum,” Pretty Tony quipped. “I write my own music, and I don’t use samples. Everything that you hear from me is authentic Pretty Tony.” 

In addition to writing, rapping, and producing, Pretty Tony is an entrepreneur with his own record label, Verse Drop LLC, and a clothing apparel line. But his music continues to define this southern rapper. With nearly 500,000 Spotify streams for his latest single, Pretty Tony is taking off again, proving that being over 50 does not matter when you are the first King of Memphis Hip Hop.  

“I’m back, and I’m in the rap game,” promised Pretty Tony.  

Make sure to stay connected to Pretty Tony on all platforms for new music, videos, and social posts. 

SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.app.goo.gl/SNSzN

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5aZ56ggl8rnFCNN3jokMHF

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0C0HTMEqgX6Sl6Nc-jW1mw

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prettytony.davis

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/CVBvEXRFpvv/?utm_medium=copy_link

Dolo Fibonacci – Cujo (Buss Out Da Trap)

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Southern Rapper Dolo Fibonacci Perfects Soul Trap Music with “Cujo”

BIRMINGHAM – Diversity is the critical ingredient for Southern rap, and Alabama’s own Dolo Fibonacci is expanding that signature trap rap sound with “Cujo,” his latest album.

“My music is strictly out for feeling and emotion,” said Dolo Fibonacci. “My songs provide that. Rapping in the South, I have an opportunity to create a voice.”

The voice that Fibonacci creates with each single on “Cujo” demonstrates his authority for hard rapping hooks and lines followed by a soul-pounding beat that always has a consciousness under each rhyme.

“‘Cujo’ is really an alternative perspective of trap music,” explained Fibonacci. “This is the equivalent to what urban legend is about, and it is my music. If you look at any other previous things that I have, at least one has been about me showing my artistry regarding my delivery. It involves more perspective bass traps where I’m trying to spin and be lyrical.”

Those “barriers” are how Fibonacci relates with his global fanbase. “I am not being a braggadocious rapper who’s just trying to sell you. I’ve been living through some shit, and I want you to listen and hopefully be with me in a way that I can get you through some of the shit. You can take my transitions, my struggles, and tribulations and being broken down on your ass, not knowing how to get out of those situations, and know that I’ve been there in your same situation,” explained Fibonacci.

Taking inspiration from a childhood surrounded by music greats such as Sam Cooke and Marvin Gaye, Fibonacci expanded his musical scope to include rap legends like UGK and Outkast to set the foundation for his unique style takes listeners on a journey. “I was always around music, and it was always nearby,” he said.

The connection between music and this Southern rapper led to his name. “I got the name Dolo from being comfortable making moves by myself. I added Fibonacci as a reference to say, ‘Dolo Forever’ because the Fibonacci sequence is never-ending and a part of all things,” he revealed.

And “forever” in the industry is what Fibonacci plans to be. “I’m just a normal person, and I go through shit like everybody. I deal with the same emotions and feelings that every normal person in the world does, but I’m resilient, and I don’t stop until I get what I want. I’m going to keep on fighting no matter how many times I get punched and land on my ass. I get up every time,” he said.

The Southern-bred native continues to take steps to improve his life, and each song sends a clear message to fans that hope is ahead. Additionally, Fibonacci is a mentor for up-and-coming rappers through his record label Innovative Visions. “We’re just trying to build each other up at the same time. With ‘Cujo,’ I’m just making some really dope music that the people can vibrate.”

Make sure to stay connected to Dolo Fibonacci on all platforms for new music, videos, and social posts.

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/thewholethang

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/dolo-fibonacci/1386564927

SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/dolo-fibonacci

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/65afmbcMiu86pN1IH0IaDc

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzWnRWf9-YuHN47ca6viIIA

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dolofibonacci/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/fibonaccidolo

Mic Nickels – Rappers Don’t Smile

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Music industry vet pokes fun at the ‘scowling rapper’ with upbeat new track ‘Rappers Don’t Smile’ 

NEW YORK, NY – With more than two decades in the music industry, Mic Nickels has become an inspiration for underground indie artists. His latest hit single is a nod to that pedigree and an homage to the rap lifestyle. “Rappers Don’t Smile” is an upbeat, fun track that examines the phenomenon of the scowling rapper. Debuting as the first single from his forthcoming “Bars For Days” album, the song features a bright piano melody laid against an energetic and playful beat. It’s a fun track that pokes fun at the “scowl” for which many rappers around the world have become known. And the video – directed by Luis “Fuego” Moya – utilizes cameos from many underground rappers showing off their meanest “ice grills,” including Blacastan, Masai Bey, BMS, L.I.F.E.LONG, Mr. Cord, J SWISS, Whichcraft, Discrete, Brimstone, Emaculit, Quest the Unborn Child, Saint Joseph, Dik Dastardly, Keith Elite, Rude 100, Odyssey Fluxx, and Ekym 1536. Produced by the notorious Colombeyond, the song is easily one of the most fun and upbeat hip-hop tracks fans will ever hear. 

“For me, hip-hop was meant to be fun,” Nickels said. “It’s a break from the struggle. Somehow over the years it became the struggle, but I wanted to bring back that feeling of fun. I’ve gone to a lot of open mics, and everyone is always so hard and angry. I wanted to examine the phenomenon of the scowling rapper and break that down. The irony is that when I was writing the song I was taking a creative writing class and the teacher wanted me to talk about smiling. In my head I was like, ‘Man, rappers don’t smile!’ And I realized it was pretty hilarious and perfect. And then the beat Colombeyond sent me was called “Smile” – which he paired with this old, obscure sample from South America from the 70s that was light and fun – and it just came together for me all in one sitting. That happens sometimes for me. Those are the magic moments – when you’re inspired and you can just do the whole track at once. I’m really proud of the song. It fits in the boom-bap vein, which kind of encapsulates who I am. And if you just randomly met me one day you might catch me smiling because I’m generally a positive dude.” 

Nickels said he plans to drop a couple of singles from “Bars For Days” before releasing the full album on Dec. 10. “Rappers Don’t Smile” will be released across all streaming platforms on Nov. 5, followed by “Sky City” on Dec. 3. 

To listen to Mic Nickels’ music, or to follow him on social media, please visit the following links: 

https://youtu.be/_VQgqcMR6eE 

https://soundcloud.com/micnickels/sets/mic-nickels-bars-for-days-demo/s-JYgyZYvWsxS?si=65c30310fa96457a9e4fd88f25c4b3d8 

IG – @micnickels

https://www.facebook.com/micnickelshiphop

www.youtube.com/micnickels

Twitter @micnickels

https://soundcloud.com/micnickels

Dez Mac – Know About It

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Dez Mac uses trials of the past to spur others on toward achieving their dreams 

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – Hard circumstances make for tough lessons learned, but sometimes it’s those hard times that end up defining the legacy we leave. That’s the case for West Coast artist Dez Mac, whose time living in a homeless shelter for a few months after first moving to San Francisco became the spark of inspiration he needed to pursue his dreams.  

Originally from Youngstown, Ohio, Dez Mac moved to San Francisco about four years ago with an idea to pursue his passion of making music professionally. He’d graduated from college with a degree in electrical engineering, but never found a job in that sector – instead settling for a job as a plumber. He hated it, and one day decided to make the leap and move to San Francisco. But he had no money and no support, and so the first three-and-a-half months in that new city were spent in a homeless shelter. But it was there that he found his muse, so to speak, writing about his experiences and sharing his songs with the other residents of the shelter. 

“I initially wasn’t sure people would like my music, but the people there loved it so much and one girl took me to a place called The Sunset where I did a recording, and everything just took off,” Dez Mac said. “Since then I’ve done more than 50 shows and I did my own tour in Atlanta and Las Vegas. I’ve been offered distribution deals. I’ve worked with producers like Zaytoven and DJ Fresh. I’ve been featured on Bow Wow’s mixtape. I went from living in a shelter to being a successful artist and touring all over the world. It’s been a crazy journey and experience, but it has all lead me to being able to invest in my music and live this dream.” 

Dez Mac is set to release his newest hit single on Oct. 22 when he drops “Know About It.” Inspired by the gun violence and police brutality of recent years, the song explores a number of social ills and challenges listeners to do something about the wrongs they see around them.  

“My goal is to spread peace and love through my music,” Dez said. “In all of my songs I’m trying to get across a message. This one has more of an up-tempo beat and it gives you a real feel and a good look inside my life. It’s powerful because it’s relevant in what’s going on in the world and what’s going on in people’s lives. It’s lyrical and enjoyable, but it also has that wow factor that people are going to recognize as something different than anything else they’re hearing out there right now. Mostly, though, I’m just trying to bring a positive vibe that inspires people to go for their dreams and to realize that no one is perfect, but we can all strive to be better.” 

To listen to Dez Mac’s music, or to follow him on social media, please visit the following links: 

https://www.instagram.com/dez_mac/?hl=en
https://youtube.com/channel/UCmvoX_5FQx7TlKzoDZXWuDA
https://www.dezmacmusic.com
https://linktr.ee/Dezmac