Original Content
(REMIIX).TAPE with Marisa Mendez
Coming from the streets of New Jersey, Marisa Mendez is a media personality behind the digital groundwork for some of your favorite artists. Getting her start as a writer on Funkmaster Flex‘s In Flex We Trust, Mendez soon became a radio personality on Hot 97‘s Ebro In The Morning and later a co-host on Joe Budden‘s I’ll Name This Podcast Later.
Since her departure from both ventures, Marisa began lifeistremendez.com and started her own podcast Marisa Explains It All, before relocating to Los Angeles.
As she continues to maneuver her way in the entertainment industry, Marisa Mendez took some time out of her digital duties to answer questions about the mixtape culture.
If you remember, what was the first mixtape you ever listened to?
The first mixtape I ever listened to was Diplomats Vol. 2. It was the summer after 10th grade (so 2002) and my best friend’s dad took us shopping on 125th St. in Harlem. It was a big deal because it was my first time in Harlem, and having fallen in love with Juelz/Dipset from “Hey Ma” and “Oh Boy” and then Cam’s album, I was not-so-secretly hoping I’d run into them. As we were walking into Jimmy Jazz (a store I’d seen in the “Oh Boy” video so again, excited!), I saw a man outside on the sidewalk with a blanket full of CDs and DVDs. I had never heard of a mixtape before, but I saw a CD with a picture of Jim Jones and Cam on it and had to buy it. I had no idea I’d just purchased my first mixtape, but the rest was history!
What is your favorite mixtape of all time and why?
My favorite mixtape of all time is the one I first bought (Diplomats Vol. 2.) Aside from the obvious sentimental value of it, it has so many of their classic songs on it. It’s like a frozen moment in time too, because it was the height of their beef with Nas and there’s disses and interview clips on there that make it so nostalgic.
How has the mixtape game inspired your career in journalism?
The mixtape game made me fall even more in love with music than I previously was. A mixtape was such a more intimate look into the artists lives as they were recorded and put out way faster than an album and there was always super current subject matter and much more raw subject matter. The skits, the DJ shouts and best of all the freestyles over beats of hit songs were so fire! It made me want to know every single person they were shouting out, learn the details of every topic they rapped about.
Describe your ideal mixtape. Who’d you want on it and over what instrumentals?
My ideal mixtape right now in 2018 would be a tape that takes it back to the essence of what mixtapes were. I want freestyles over current hits! And really I’d want it from Nicki Minaj. I miss mixtape Nick – she was so raw! I think she needs to put out another Playtime is Over and really win the streets back before she releases her album.
Top five mixtapes of all time?
In no order they are:
Dipset – Diplomats Vol. 2
Nicki Minaj – Playtime Is Over
Mike Posner – The Layover
Lil Wayne – Drought 3
Lil Wayne – Dedication 5
What’s your view on the industry trying to profit off mixtapes versus selling it for free?
I hate it! Leave them to be a promotional tool like they once were. It devalues the importance of their albums and it waters down the content of the tape because then they have to worry about sample clearances and all of that.
Do you think mixtapes are still a source of discovering new artists?
Not like they once were. Now it’s really just playlists and SoundCloud that are the real tool in helping discover new people.
Does a lane for mixtapes and its DJs still exist?
You know – I don’t know. I think so. Maybe not with all the loud DJ shouting but in some capacity, I think we’ll always love these samples of artists’ raw talent with no extra gimmicks of big-budget albums and rollout plans.
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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