Original Content
How Joe Budden Taught Me Pain Doesn’t Last Forever
I write it all down, so one day maybe when life is all sweet, I’ll remember.
Assuming you probably don’t know me, I’ve been a Joe Budden fan since I was 13-years-old. However, his lyrics didn’t really resonate with me until my 14-year-old-self didn’t want to get out of bed anymore and cried every morning because I didn’t want to face another day at school. Some would tell me depression was a phase, but it had completely taken over my whole life. After a situation occurred (that I won’t explain for the protection of the other party and I’m honestly not ready to tell the world yet), I completely went damn shut down and went damn near insane. The girls who I thought were my friends withheld vital information that could’ve made this situation do a whole 360, I went from a straight A student to settling for B’s and C’s, I wasn’t eating which resulted in me losing 7 pounds a week and I literally felt like my own parents didn’t love me – and with those thoughts, I felt worthless.
The first Joe Budden song I ever heard was “Dear Diary.” Produced by WMS Sultan, I knew I was going to like the record off Budden’s delivery alone. He sounded so angry and I wanted to know why.
Joe Budden – Dear Diary
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Looking for sun, all I see is the hail/How I’m gon’ trust? All I see is betrayal/ It’s like they keep trying more and more to subdue me/ And only you understand, signed by yours truly
Now, I could’ve gone through every single line on this record and tell you how it related to my life, but then this editorial would never end; but what I can say is that I had finally found someone who understood me. Depending on the situation you’re in, you tend to push people away and feel like everyone’s against you once depression is in the mix. I was in it deep and really had no one in the end. So, I would literally go to school, come home, do homework and go to bed. It was the worst and most lonesome routine ever.
Since finding “Dear Diary,” I went back into Joe’s catalog and found the record that changed me forever.
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Music
Sometimes I need a hug, real shit, pain shared is pain lessened.
You’re probably wondering how in the world a 14-year-old had the mental capacity or intelligence to understand what a 20-something-year-old with an old soul was going through. Hey, I don’t know either; but, what I did know is, I wasn’t the only one who had a black cloud following them every step of the way.
Normally it’s just me and my lonely mind, everyone’s storm is different so this forecast is only mine.
Joe Budden – Black Cloud
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This record holds a special place in my heart. Not only because it once again correlated with my life perfectly, but I was able to watch Joe record this and more records through many late-night studio sessions aired on Blog TV. I bumped this record at least once a week for four years straight.
Fast forwarding to college, I finally felt like I could breathe again; and so, did Joe (kinda). It was like we were telepathically going through the same shit, just different scenarios. The drugs, the alcohol, all to feel numb and be happy like the people around us were. But, in the end, we felt nothing but alone.
However, going through what I went through and watching Joe go what he went through, I’ve learned that pain doesn’t last forever; and though he’s documented what he’s going/gone through via music, I’m sure he thinks all the time, “How the fuck did I get through all that?” I feel that way every time I read an old journal entry or a poem I wrote. But it’s nice to have it all written down, so when life is sweet, you’ll remember that if you could get through that, you could get through just about anything.
Joe Budden on Twitter: “Live long enough to contradict everything you ever thought. / Twitter”
Live long enough to contradict everything you ever thought.
As Joe Budden embarks on a new journey over at Complex, I get to prepare for all my summer fun before going to Boston University for Masters in Social Work (crazy, right?). Isn’t life bitter sweet?
Disclaimer: I was 17 in the video below, looking like a nerd (lmao). 22 in the Instagram picture.
@miixtapechiick onstage with Joe Budden @ SOBs 12.27.11
Mouse showing his love for the fans
https://www.instagram.com/p/BL7M_msBUpP/?taken-by=miixtapechiick
Culture
Nigerian Artists to Watch Out for in 2024
Afrobeats, a captivating fusion of hip-hop and electronic elements with West African rhythms, has become a global sensation in the music industry. Although well-known heavyweights like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido still dominate the scene, a new generation of gifted musicians is emerging and has the potential to propel the genre to new heights.
In recent years, we have witnessed the rise of stars like Rema, Asake, Tyla, Ayra Starr, Libianca, Fireboy DML, and a host of others armed with unique sounds, captivating lyricism, and undeniable stage presence, pushing the boundaries of Afrobeats by infusing it with elements of R&B, pop, and even alternative sounds.
This year, the Nigerian music industry is experiencing a surge in popularity from a new breed of talents. Let’s meet the Nigerian artists you need to know:
Qing Madi
Chimamanda Pearl Chukwuma, better known by her stage name Qing Madi, is a multi-talented Nigerian singer, songwriter, and performer who is shaping 4music with her distinctive blend of pop, soul, R&B, and Afrobeats. Her breakthrough single, “Why,” released in 2023, quickly gained popularity, marking her arrival in the Nigerian music scene. Her unique style and artistic ability are harmoniously blended in “Why,” a song that mixes melodicism and an irresistible rhythmic drive.
With her self-described Afro-R&B sound, Qing Madi has boldly carved out her own musical niche while elegantly following in the footsteps of famous Afrobeat giants. Qing Madi recently unveiled her latest project, inviting listeners to experience the unique melodies and lyrical depth woven into each track. The self-titled project “Qing Madi” showcases the artist’s dedication to her craft, further solidifying her position as a significant figure and one to watch out for in 2024. “American Love” is one track off the EP that is promising, and I suggest everyone take a listen. Listen here.
Oladapo
Nigerian musician Tonade Oladapo Adetunji, better known by his stage name Oladapo, is a multi-talented singer, songwriter, and performer. His sound, described as “Afro-fusion,” combines highlife and R&B melodies with unique contemporary elements, all artistically complemented with elements of his native Yoruba and Nigerian Pidgin. His listeners are taken on a never-ending musical journey by his soulful vocals and artistic vision.
Oladapo’s newest body of work, “IN CASE I NEVER LOVE AGAIN (ICINLA),” is poised to win hearts once more. A story of poignant intimacy, the 10-track project offers a cathartic journey for people who have felt the pain of unfulfilled emotional connections. Listen here.
Morravey
Daniella Daniel Ibinabo is a singer, songwriter, and creative who goes by the stage name Morravey. With her soulful vocals, this fast-rising R&B musician has undoubtedly captured the eye of the Nigerian audience, going from making covers to becoming an online sensation. Recognized for contributing her beautiful yet exceptional vocals on “In the Garden,” one of the most celebrated albums of 2023, “Timeless” by Davido.
The buzz surrounding Morravey’s debut EP, RAVI, which consists of five mesmerizing tracks, is growing. The EP, released on November 2, 2023, includes the top-charting track “Magician,” a collaboration with Davido. Listen here.
Winny
Winifred Ohili Adanu, popularly known as Winny, is a talented artist from Nigeria. With her unique vocal delivery and a sound that combines R&B/Soul, Afro, and reggae, the gifted singer offers her music a distinct edge. Inspired by artists such as Chris Brown, Wizkid, Chronixx and Kranium, Winny aims to convey love, compassion, self-awareness, and a sense of belonging through her music and songwriting.
Winny proves she’s one to watch with her breakout self-titled EP “WINNY.” Her breathtaking single, “Pretty,” is a lovely song with excellent writing and composition. It debuted in the Top 200 of the Apple R&B/Soul Chart in Nigeria, Kenya, the Congo, and the Gambia. Listen here.
Kold AF
Aninooritsewarami Alero Oritsesan, a Nigerian rising star with a unique voice and style who goes by her stage name Kold AF, has proven why she is a queen in her own world and deserves everyone’s time and attention. Through her popular song covers, the rapidly budding artist has gradually and steadily grown her fan base.
Her recently released body of work titled “KOLLIDE” showcases her genre-bending ability that shares the spotlight with her superb songwriting. Kold AF is making a difference with her distinct style in Nigerian music by experimenting with Pop and R&B, complemented with dancehall style. She is showing signs of being a force to be reckoned with. Listen here.
Culture
The Rise of R&B Music in Africa
The world’s music industry has always been inspired by Africa, the continent of rich cultural heritage. In the African music scene, R&B is experiencing a significant comeback, despite the historical dominance of Afrobeats, Amapiano, Gengetone, and other genres. This is an exciting development for the continent.
Africa’s R&B scene is proof of African musicians’ uniqueness, versatility, and creativity. R&B has always been associated with romantic themes and soulful songs, but African musicians are giving the genre a distinctive new direction by incorporating elements of their own cultures and musical tastes.
Africa has a never-ending love for good R&B; South Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Zambia, and Uganda have the highest R&B listenership on Spotify. Collaborations between international superstars and African musicians in the R&B genre are becoming more frequent than they were a decade ago, mostly due to this tremendous rise.
From the mesmerizing strains of “Big FU” by David Guetta, featuring Nigeria’s finest Ayra Starr, to the captivating melodies of “Sensational” by Chris Brown, Davido, and Lojay, and Travis Scott jumping on Tyla‘s “Water,” one of Africa’s breakout songs of 2023. Africa’s stars are shining bright on the world stage.
And now, African singers are also connecting with one another to release global hits all on their own.
Soulful vocals combined with modern production techniques, Afrobeat loops, and traditional African rhythms are being skillfully blended by musicians all throughout the globe. This blend produces a sound that not only resonates with listeners but also bridges the gap between the past and the present.
In Africa, R&B is growing in popularity more than ever. We see that the power of music transcends all borders, whether by location or generation, as this global journey spreads like wildfire.
Culture
Lil Durk Cancels Rolling Loud Performance & ‘Sorry for the Drought Tour’ Dates
Lil Durk has made the difficult decision to cancel his much-anticipated Rolling Loud Miami performance and a significant portion of his ‘Sorry for the Drought Tour.’
The announcement comes after the rapper was recently hospitalized for dehydration and exhaustion, as reported by TMZ. Lil Durk, whose real name is Durk Banks, expressed his regret at being unable to take the stage but prioritizes his health and well-being above all else. Despite the setbacks, the artist remains positive and is looking forward to resuming his performances as soon as he receives medical clearance.
“Since I’m still awaiting to get full clearance from my doctors to travel and perform again, I have no other choice but to cancel my headlining Rolling Loud performance.,” Durk said in a statement to Akademiks. “While I’m home resting, I am looking forward to my two homecoming shows on the 11th & 12th in Chicago. For the rest of the country, I’ll be announcing new dates soon. #StillHealing”
Despite the unfortunate circumstances leading to the tour’s postponement, there are still some bright spots for fans. Five of Lil Durk’s shows remain unaffected by the cancellation. Among the unaffected performances are two hometown shows set to take place at Chicago’s United Center, with one of them being an appearance at 107.5 WGCI Summer Jam on August 12.
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