Tour Magazine Spring 2017 by Tour Magazine

FEATURING Dae Dae WillThaRapper Interstate Snake Semore Buckz Veli Smallz

Spring 2017

Rookie Of The Year

Part 1

THEREALTOURMAGAZINE.COM

Rookie Of The Year Part 1

Spring 17

CONTENTS FEATURES 4

DEPARTMENTS 6 ARTIST SHOWCASE 26 INDIE GRIND 30 TOP 10 KEYS TO SUCCESS

HE SAID, SHE SAID

OUT HEREâ&#x20AC;¦PERSONALLY

F@%K IT UP

WHAT YOU MEAN?

THE GRINDERS

BROWN SUGAR

MIC CHECK

EDITOR'S NOTE VOL. 3 NO. 1 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Thomas “Supreme” Parsons EDITORIAL WEB DESIGNER

www.blazonco.com ART COVER ART GRAPHICS

Picante Creative DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Picante Creative CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Hao Nguyen CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ray Potter page 4-5 Michael Hoy page 7 VeeA page 8 Shaughn Cooper pages 10-13; Editor’s Note Crystal Guernsey 16-19; Cover 1 Hi Grade Agency pages 19-20 Ezra Ferguson pages 22-25 Ojizz pages 26-27 Brittany Graham pages 28-29; Cover 1 (edit) C I R C U L AT I O N SINGLE COPY SALES

Kevin Parsons PUBLISHED BY

TOUR: REAL PEOPLE, PLACES & THINGS MAGAZINE, LLC

eace. 2017 is well underway, and we are back and better than ever. This issue marks the start of our third volume, titled Rookie Of The Year. The Rookie Of The Year campaign consists of three installments, and is dedicated to many of the top young new artists in Hip Hop. As for the artists featured in this copy, some of them you know, like Dae Dae and WillThaRapper, whereas others such as Interstate Snake, Semore Buckz, and Veli Smallz you don’t—yet. However, they’re all quite talented. And, each of them will have an impact on Hip Hop this year. How much of an impact? Well, that’s up to you—the fans. But, it doesn’t stop with those five emcees. We also have spreads featuring the sexy model Jarohnya, Def Jam A&R Big K, and several other dope rhyme-sayers. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride!

OWNER

Thomas E. Parsons III E-MAIL

therealtourmagazine@gmail.com

www.therealtourmagazine.com

Thomas “Supreme” Parsons Editor-In-Chief @teparsons3

PRINTED IN THE USA

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HE SAID, SHE SAIDâ&#x20AC;¦ WITH SUPREME

COVERGIRL FEATURING

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Supreme: Tell us a little about yourself. C OVER G IRL : My name is CoverGirl. Some people call me CG for short. And, I am from Chestertown, Maryland. Supreme: How long have you been making music professionally? C OVER G IRL : I’ve been writing music for a very long time. But, I would say about a year professionally. That is about when I really decided to go for the gusto as a solo artist. Supreme: Has it been challenging trying to get your music out there being a female emcee from a small town? C OVER G IRL : No, not at all. I am very blessed to have people that support me and are rooting for me. In fact, if I take too long to produce new material, my fans will start inquiring. Whenever I drop a new song, I immediately get reposts, downloads, and performance requests. My fan base is comparatively small, but loyal. I feel like after my video for Tears Drop came out, people started checking for my projects even more. However, at this point, I’m just trying to reach a broader audience. Supreme: So, tell us about your music. C OVER G IRL : My style is glamorous, sexy, and urban. There’s like a hood celebrity/ superstar appeal to my music. People always tell me

that I don’t look like a rapper. And, when they hear me rap, they are shocked by the fact that my lyrics have so much sass and aggression. I believe that my sneak attack factor, or element of surprise, is part of what makes me unique. Supreme: Dope. What are you currently working on? And, are there new visuals on the way? C OVER G IRL : My latest single is Strike A Pose. The video is out now.

Supreme: When can we expect a full-length project? C OVER G IRL : I am releasing my first full-length project very soon. But, in the meanwhile, I will continue to be active and release new music and visuals. Supreme: Before you go, tell our readers how they can keep up with you. C OVER G IRL : You can follow me on Instagram, Twitter, and SoundCloud @covergirl400.

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ARTIST SHOWCASE

ENTER THE STAGE BY THOMAS “SUPREME” PARSONS

Big K, A&R of Def Jam Recordings, places the independent Hip Hop scene front and center with the Def Jam Ultimate Showcase. I was present at the D.C. Edition. There I got an opportunity to talk to Big K about the performance platform and its significance to independent artists. Here’s some of what he had to say.

Peace. How did you get your start in the music business? Big K: Kay Slay was like, “I want to introduce you to this guy named Rob Love.” Who was, at the time, the VP of Marketing at Def Jam. So, when

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I finally met Rob Love, Kay Slay told him, “Yo, he been out here for a whole year straight…he used to be sick and all.” Rob Love told me to come see him in January when the label opened back up. I went and saw Rob, and he hired me on the spot.

What is the Def Jam Ultimate Showcase and how did it get started? Big K: Well, The Ultimate Showcase is basically like—just a passion for the music. Me and my brother Fresh, and Tone we were basically sitting in our sneaker store one day—you know—just thinking of different ways of how we could help artists with a platform that’s legitimate. And, have people from the label really come out. I really work for the label. You know what I’m saying? And, the only thing we promise is what we can do. We don’t promise record deals, because that’s not real. You’re not getting a record deal out of a club. Where’s the lawyers at? We might do cash prizes. We might offer different things that’ll help you get to the next platform. And, then we bring out judges that have some type of credibility. It’s just not me sitting there. We brought out the Vice President of the label at one time. We brought out Smack. We brought out um—you know—different artists. We try to just really create a platform, cause we know there’s a lot of showcases. And, people are promising the world and they’re getting nothing. But, we can honestly say that everything we said we was going to do, we have done.

What cities have you held showcases in thus far? Big K: D.C., Raleigh, North Carolina, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Florida, and Atlanta.

Why do you think that it is important for independent artists to participate in Def Jam’s Ultimate Showcase? Big K: Well…again, we don’t promise record deals. But, if we see an artist that’s seasoned, that’s really out here pushing, promoting, really getting those numbers, really about that craft, and is dope—I’m going to see if we can get a meeting. I’m going to figure out how we can make this work. So, where most people can’t even get in the building, I walk through the building. And, can go into anybody office and see whoever I want to see. So, if I find something that’s worth me bringing, I’m going to take it up there. And, like I said, we have a lot of relationships with those that we have met along the way. And, we help them out if they want to get on blogs, if they want to get on TV, radio, we can help them out. Like I said, I legitimately have any connection you want. So, it’s a benefit by working with us on The Ultimate Showcase. Because, we can facilitate anything an independent artist needs.

How can our readers keep up with all things Big K? Big K: Instagram and Twitter @bigkdefjamnyc.

Tone left, Big K center, and CJ, CEO of Saykrid Ent., right TOUR MAGA ZINE

OUT H Raised in the war torn streets of Kabul, Afghanistan (That’s right —Afghanistan!), Interstate Snake is no stranger to adversity. The Virginia-based emcee has been grinding for what he wants all of his life. And, his approach to obtaining Hip Hop stardom is no different. Interstate Snake, AKA

Mr. Water Whippin, is one of the hardest working independent artists in Hip Hop. And, over the past six years he has established a loyal fan base. A fan base that is diverse and growing. Now, as he prepares to drop his fourth mixtape, Interstate Snake is looking to expand. So, I figured that this would be the ideal time to put him before the greater Hip Hop community. Take a moment to get familiar with the rapper.

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BY THOMAS “SUPREME” PARSONS

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HERE PERSONALLY How did you get started in Hip Hop?

Tell us a little about that.

Interstate Snake: Man, just really —you know—listening to the music that my older cousins were listening to. You know? I remember my cousin had the Doggystyle cassette tape. That was my first time ever really getting familiar, or really fucking with Hip Hop. You know what I’m saying? That Doggystyle album—Snoop’s joint— that joint, and the Enter the Wu-Tang joint, and the fucking Ready to Die joint, those were like the first few joints that I can vividly remember my cousin playing all of the time.

Interstate Snake: The joint’s called I’m Cookin, and it’s featuring my homeboy Doeboy Da Deacon. And, we are getting about three spins a day, in the D.C. market right now. You know what I’m saying? The video has gotten over 130,000 views on YouTube. We are actually getting spins worldwide on that record. We are getting spins out Australia. I actually did an interview on an Australian radio station not too long ago. We are getting spins out Paris, London, New Zealand. Yeah, that I’m Cookin joint is what really catapulted me to that next level.

Was it a challenge getting people to take your music serious— because of your heritage—early in your career?

So, what’s on Interstate Snake’s agenda for the remainder of 2017?

Interstate Snake: I really wouldn’t say it was an obstacle. I would say more or less it helped me out. Because people wanted to know my prospective. You know what I’m saying? I really never took the shit too serious myself, until about probably 7 or 8 years ago. Before that, I just did the shit for the art of it—for the love. And, once I started getting older I realized that I could really make some cheddar off this shit. You know what I’m saying? So, I think it really helped me. Because that’s what made me standout.

What has been your most successful record to date?

Interstate Snake: I’m Cookin. The I’m Cookin record.

Interstate Snake: For the rest of the year, man I’m just working. I just dropped a new record called Say Wzup, featuring Nino Man—which is Jadakiss’ artist. We are working on a video for that. We got that record going. Then, on top of that, I’m working on a new mixtape called Afghanimal. You know what I’m saying? Just bodying everything. I’m getting back to showcasing that penmanship—showcasing them bars and those punch lines. Like, originally, that’s what I was known for. But, I kind of dumbed my shit down. Cause a lot of the shit I was doing, was going over a lot of people’s heads. Everybody was telling me, “man, you gotta dumb your shit down a little bit. You gotta get more radio friendly blahzay blahzay.” Which was cool. It worked

out, because I started getting a lot of radio spins off the records that I was making. But, with this new joint I’m going to get on my animal instincts and just go in.

Are there any notable features on Afghanimal?

Interstate Snake: I definitely got Nino Man on there. I’m going to have that Say Wzup record on it. Which was originally titled Martin Lawrence, but I couldn’t use that name because iTunes wouldn’t let me. You know what I’m saying? And, I’ve been working with other artists, but I’m not sure if I’m going to put those records on that joint. Cause this mixtape is going to be a mixture of original music and me taking instrumentals and bodying em. You know what I’m saying? So, as of right now, I’m going to have Nino Man on there and I’m going to have my Official Grind camp. You know, everybody who’s on my team—all of the people that are under my same umbrella. That’s about it as far as right now.

Tell our readers where they can find you.

Interstate Snake: Oh yeah, it’s real easy to find me. All of my handles is @interstatesnake. My Instagram, my Twitter, my YouTube—all of it is just one word: interstatesnake. Also, be on the lookout for that We Out Chea Personally apparel. Be on the lookout for that website at www. weoutcheapersonally.com.

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F@%K By Thomas “Supreme” Parsons

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There was a time when one thought of Hip Hop cities, D.C. was pretty low on the list—if it made the cut at all. The city was better known for its unique Go-Go scene. But, artists such as Wale, Shy Glizzy, and Fat Trel have erased much of that perception. Now, D.C., and the surrounding DMV area, has become a hotbed for talented new Hip Hop artists. And, at the forefront of this lyrical wave is WillThaRapper. He’s raw, unapologetic, and just what Hip Hop needs. This became clear to me 5 minutes into my interview of the 20-year-old southeast D.C. bred rapper. I left DJ Social’s spot with a genuine respect and appreciation for the emcee. Read the interview, and get to know one Hip Hop’s young new stars.

How was it growing up in your hood? WillThaRapper: I ain’t really grow up in southeast D.C. My mother ain’t want me going to no D.C. schools. That’s understood though, because back then they were all garbage. So, she moved me to Maryland. But, you know, that’s when you find out it really ain’t no better. It just looks a little nicer. You know, houses are probably a little further apart. But, it’s the same shit once you bend that corner and enter into a

new neighborhood. It’s a hood. That’s exactly what it is. So, growing up out there was crazy. And, then it’s like—it’s like I felt out of place for a little bit, until I got in good with the peoples and shit. But, it was just weird though, because it was like… It ain’t really a beef, but it’s just a little bit of bad blood between D.C. and Maryland. You know? If you’re from Maryland, they are going to try and play with you when you go to D.C., and if you from D.C., they going to try to go hard on you when they catch you in Maryland. I served time with a lot of dudes from The District, and their thing was Go-Go. It was all about Rare Essence and Junkyard with them. Did you come up on Go-Go, or was Hip Hop always your thing? TOUR MAGA ZINE

Other than your own, who’s music are you rocking with? WillThaRapper: Industry wise… I listen to people that just came out. I can’t listen to people that’s been in the game too long. It don’t sound the same to me. You know? So, I listen to like newcomers like 21, NBA YoungBoy—you know, the niggas that— they just got that buzz. So, they still trying to crank out. They ain’t just making songs now just to stay in the loop. They trying to get their name heard. Like Kodak… people who come out speaking either some real shit or just some gangster. They crank to me. You know?

Your sound is unlike everything else on the radio. How would you describe it?

WillThaRapper: I love Go-Go man. That was my whole life when I was coming up. That’s what made me rap. Because I seen rappers in Go-Go’s. When the bands would switch, then the rapper would come out and do a little song or two. Bitches would go crazy. They would go about their business. They wouldn’t even stay. And, still had the bitches. But, Go-Go—man that shit was crazy! Man Go-Go was my life! I was at every club—every weekend. I was young. I always tell people, in the Go-Go days, I was old enough to go, but young enough that you couldn’t fuck with me—because it’s not cool. People would be like, “why you fucking with that little ass kid.” So, I was literally in there just in the mix. Without being in all of the drama though. But Go-Go, yeah I love Go-Go man. That’s all that I listened to at one point in time.

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WillThaRapper: Man, just some D.C. shit y’all ain’t heard before. I ain’t even going to say some D.C. shit. Some DMV shit y’all ain’t never heard before. I’m with the unity. So, some DMV shit that nobody never heard before. It ain’t no Wale, it ain’t no Glizzy, it ain’t no Trel. It’s the new young niggas coming up. And, then it ain’t even them. It’s Double S-O. It’s our corner. It’s that little side of the Earth that you ain’t never seen before. But, when you get there, you gonna be like, “goddamn these niggas is coming. Where the fuck we been at this whole time?”

Let’s talk about Pull Up Hop Out. How’d that record come about? WillThaRapper: I had to freestyle. I was in the studio… It’s another little rapper called Lil Nei, and he rapped like a little goofy-type flow back then. And, everybody kept comparing me to him. But, back then I was rapping on some old Meek Mill—straight lyricism, straight bars. I wasn’t really trying to pick no cool beats. You’d hear me on some sample shit. Like some Wayne/Jay Z-type shit. Before you would hear me on some club-type shit. But, you know, everybody kept comparing us. So—you know—back then, his name was a little bigger than THEREALTOURMAGA ZINE.COM

mine. I ain’t really chasing it, but it’s like after enough people said it, I’m like, alright, I’m going to make a song and mimic this nigga with like a little similar song. So, now if people compare us, it can make sense. It ain’t no, “it’s Will’s lyrics, and then the other cuz, he just got the good beats.” So, I found a cranking beat, and I went in the booth and literally said anything though. It was just to make a song so people could have something that’ll make sense the next time that I see them comparing us. So, I don’t be like, “what the fuck is they talking about?” Because, at first I felt like it was a nigga comparing—I’m not even trying to say as far as their status in the rap game—I’m just saying as far as how they rap. It was like a nigga was comparing—I ain’t even going to say no crazy name, to make it seem like I’m amping myself—it seem like a nigga was comparing a Meek Mill to a Lil Yachty. You know what I’m saying? Like bars to some dude that’s really not concerned with bars. He just want something that people can move to. So, I just went into his lane and made some shit. And, that became the best fucking song that I ever made. Then, that shit just went crazy. I freestyled it though. It wasn’t no, “aw man, this is going to be the one.” It was, ‘yeah, this sounds like a beat he’ll rap on.” You get me though?

So, now that you’ve introduced yourself to the world, what’s next for WillThaRapper? WillThaRapper: I’m going to keep em coming man. I’m going to keep cranking. I’m not even trying to be the best rapper in the world. I’m not trying to be the richest. I’m not trying to always be #1. I just want to be somebody’s favorite rapper. I want to be some little girl’s or some little boy’s favorite rapper that they listen to when somebody piss them off. That they listened to when they in a good mood. I just want to make music man. And, I hope that I can make a whole lot of money and make a whole lot of noise with it. But, that’s just going to come with it you know? Regardless, whether I blow or not man, I love making music. So, I’m going to make music. But, yeah that’s what’s next for me. I’m just going to keep working. Keep throwing them at em. Try to clean up my grind a little bit, so that it could mesh a little bit better with how the culture is set up. But, for the most part, I’m going to keep rocking man.

Do you have an album or mixtape on the way? WillThaRapper: I just dropped a mixtape called Nightmare Befo Khristmas. I got another mixtape called Street Runner 2. That’s the one that most people are anticipating. Because, you know, the Street Runner—that was my first mixtape, with Pull Up Hop Out on it. But, I’m trying to make sure that joint is perfect. I don’t want to drop it, and then they like, “the first one was better.” I don’t want to hear that. So, I’m trying to make sure that I know that joint is perfect. But, you know, that shit just takes patience.

One more thing, where can our readers follow you? WillThaRapper: Everything is WillThaRapper. Everything I’m on. YouTube WillThaRapper. Twitter WillThaRapper. Instagram WillThaRapper. TOUR MAGA ZINE

WHAT YOU MEAN?

By Thomas “Supreme” Parsons

bout a year ago, Dae Dae exploded onto the national Hip Hop scene with the street anthem “Wat U Mean.” Then, he followed up on the success of that record with the certified hit “Spend It.” Now, the promising young talent is poised for Hip Hop stardom. So who is Dae Dae? To some, he’s one of those rappers with the dyed-hair. But, unlike the rest of his colorful peers, this dude can actually spit. There’s no “mumble-rap” here. Just bars. I recently talked to the 24-year-old father of five—on the eve of the release of his third mixtape—in an effort to answer the aforementioned question and more. The contents of that interview are below. Check it out, and be sure to support this dope new artist. By now, most Hip Hop fans are familiar with your music. But, tell us a little about the man behind the hits.

Dae Dae: My name is Dae Dae. I grew up out of 4th Ward of Atlanta. I’ve been rapping since I was 16. I’ve been dreaming of it since I was 8, watching my Dad and brother freestyle. And, one particular Christmas, my daddy bought me a CD player, but I didn’t have a Cd. I had to find me a Cd to go with it the CD player. So, at that time, around my age, the only rappers that I could listen to were Bow Wow and Romeo. So, I listened to their music and I fell in love with their music. I fell in love with their style. I started dressing like them. I had

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Atlanta has become the cultural center of Hip Hop, and in some ways, entertainment as a whole. Do you think that the increased attention helps its new artists?

Dae Dae: Most definitely. I’m going to tell you why, because it’s always good to be hot in your city. It’s always good to be hot in Atlanta cause I feel like Atlanta is a hard market to get people to like your music. For example, if you have shows in Atlanta, Atlanta won’t turn-up like if you go to another state. You see what I’m saying? Atlanta is a hard market. So, if you have Atlanta liking your music, you most definitely got something.

the Allen Iverson braids. And, watching their careers made me want to rap as well. So, as I grew, I started getting into the studio and working on my craft. Also, I’m very inspired by my Daddy. Nah mean? My Daddy taught me everything. My Dad introduced me to everything—you know what I mean—as far as the streets and within rap. My dad pushed me as a rapper.

Let’s talk about the music. I found Wat U Mean motivational and Spend It, on the other hand, reckless in a carefree sort of way. Is your latest mixtape as layered and diverse?

Dae Dae: Yes, most definitely. Cause I want to hit my fans in different ways. I’m trying to reach everyone. You see what I’m saying? I’m trying to reach all of the fans. Ya dig? And, I like doing different types of music also. Ya dig? And, I know how to make it sound good and still be my style. Ya dig? Ya dig?

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Like as far as Wat U Mean, the world liked it. But, there were people that didn’t like it. I’m trying to touch those people that didn’t like it. I’m trying to reach them also. 5 Reasons is going to be very, very, very unique and creative. You know? The way that it’s put together and the hard work that went into it, is a sign of the struggle—you see what I’m saying—in certain situations.

While we are on the subject, what else can you tell us about your mixtape? What should the fans expect?

Dae Dae: My next mixtape that I’m dropping is called 5 Reasons, and that’s off of the 4 Reasons [theme]. 4 Reasons was the first tape that I dropped. And, the second tape that I dropped was called The DefAnition. This tape that I’m dropping now is the follow-up of my life. I’m speaking more of my story—what I have seen and experienced—and, all of the situations that I’ve been through. You know, the life that I’m living right now.

Were you surprised by the success of Spend It?

Dae Dae: No, because I knew Spend It was going to go regardless. You know? I dropped Spend It myself. I called my DJ the same night that I did Spend It, I called my DJ—Playboy—and I said, “man we got another one.” When Wat U Mean was hot, I was saying to myself that I ain’t want to be no one-hit wonder, or anything like that. So, I knew that I had to get into the studio and come up with another one. I went into the studio one late night, smoking that Moon Rock—high. I’m in there high. Came up with Spend It, called my DJ that same night. Sent it to him. He dropped it on his mixtape, and all of the DJs started loving it. So, they started playing it.

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Who produced Spend It?

Dae Dae: My guy named Trill Senio [aka Young Trill Beatz].

Who would you like to work with if given the opportunity?

Dae Dae: Anthony Hamilton. Yeah, I love him to death. I love his voice. You know, I love his craft. I love his story. You know? I grew up listening to him. My parents played a lot of his music and my grand mom. So, I had to like him. And, when I actually started to understand his music—finna love him. You see what I’m saying? So, yeah Anthony Hamilton ya dig?

Several young new artists, such as you, Lil Uzi Vert, and Lil Yachty, have colored hair. Uzi is from Philly, but for the most part it seems to be a southern trend. Can you explain it to those of us who aren’t from the south?

to—most definitely—be hands-on with the fans. I want to be everywhere. You see what I’m saying? I want to tour the schools. I’ve been hitting that market. Ya dig? I want to get into acting. I want to see if I can get some movie roles. I’m going to be working with bigger artists. You know what I mean? I want to connect with bigger artists like: J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, and Rick Ross.

What’s the best advice that someone has given you concerning this business that you’d like to pass onto up-and-coming rappers? Dae Dae: Keep pushing. You know what I mean? Keep working. Don’t

get frustrated. You have to be hands-on— you know what I mean—far as like getting your music in clubs. You have to get yourself into some “open mics.” You know? Make good music. Make your music mean something. Don’t just go out here talking about shooting and killing. You know what I mean? Talk about something. Speak your story family. Ya dig?

Before you go, tell our readers how to keep up with all things Dae Dae.

Dae Dae: You can follow my Instagram @ daedae. And, follow my Twitter @daedae. Follow my Facebook @DaeDaeATL.

Dae Dae: I don’t know where they’re from. I know where I’m from. I’m from Atlanta. You see what I’m saying? Yeah, I fuck with them—shout-out to them though. But, that’s just my style bro. You know what I mean? That’s just me. I see it as my image. I feel like they got their own image. I feel like artists are just trying set their own image. See what I’m saying? It’s just that trend that you set. I’ve got a lot of people dying their hair the same color as my hair. Dying it the same way that I got it. You know what I’m saying? It’s just something that—I don’t know—but they love it though. They eat it up.

2017 is poised to be your breakout year. What are your plans?

Dae Dae: I’m trying to reach every market. Ya dig? I’m trying

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Semore Buckz:

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So, is it safe to say that your style is reminiscent of the great emcees of Hip Hop’s Golden Era?

Semore Buckz: Yeah. I got like

a… I’m like a… Biggie was my favorite rapper as a little kid. I fuck with Pac too heavy. But, as a little kid, I didn’t really understand Pac. Cause I wasn’t going through his struggle. My Mom—my parents was, but I’m a little kid and they protected me from that. So, I gravitated to the flashiness, and the witty words, and the stuff I could understand as a little kid. What motivates you?

Semore Buckz: Man, my

family. And, just trying to get to the next level. I feel like I was put out here to break the cycle. Like…I come from a place of broken dreams. You feel me? Where a lot of people could’ve made it. You feel me? But, they let—you nah mean—other obstacles push them onto another path. I just stayed focused. I feel like—nah mean—once I show them that I can do it, everybody else who got those dreams—they’ll reactivate it and they’ll try theirs. The younger ones that’s coming up who don’t even know what their dream is, eventually, whatever it is, they’ll figure it out. And, have hope because they seen a person do it before them. No matter if it’s in a whole different lane though. Is it your goal to remain independent, or are you trying to establish a deal with a major label?

Semore Buckz: Honestly, I like the

independent side. You feel me? Eventually, when the opportunity comes—when I put in enough work, and they start banging on my door all crazy. Then, I’ll sit back and have meetings with them, and filter out the ones that sound alright. And, you nah mean, if it’s a nice little joint venture or something like that—I’m wit it. But, I’m not really pressed right now to get a deal. I feel like I’m going through the journey. I ain’t in no rush for nothing. I’m enjoying the process.

What are you currently working on?

Semore Buckz: I’m wrapping

up my One Connect Away mixtape. It should be out any day now. We just basically putting on the finishing touches—the icing on the cake right now. What’s the first single, and can you tell us about that?

Semore Buckz: Yeah. My first

single is this joint called Slim Dunkin. Like an acronym for “never broke again.” Like Slim Dunkin was this rapper from Atlanta, and he had a phrase called “never broke again.” So—nah mean—he never really got to spread it throughout the whole world. Cause that was a dope phrase, and I feel like Dunk was lit. You feel me? He wasn’t like my favorite rapper, but I fuck wit em. I had a level of respect for him. So, you know what I mean? I flipped the “never broke again.” Showed him love, and put him on the intro of it. You know, helped him keep his legacy going and then get my mentals out too. You feel me? Can you elaborate on the content of One Connect Away?

Semore Buckz: Basically, it’s just

me. I got a couple of dope producers on there. I’ve got Black The Beast on there. He produced for Chris Brown, Pharrell…a lot of people. I got like— maybe two features on there. I got this kid called Mone Corleone from Queens. He hot out here right now. And, you know the home team— Fatal and squad. You nah mean? That’s about it for real.

Sounds dope. I can’t wait to hear it. One more thing, plug your social media outlets.

Semore Buckz: You can check

me out on Facebook at Semore Buckz. And, @grizzydagrinder on everything: Twitter, Instagram. Or you can just Google Semore Buckz, and a couple of pages will pop up. You nah mean? And, it’ll point you in the right direction.

@ICEY MANE @ICEY MANE @ICEY MANE @ICEY MANE100

@TONY QUINTANA58 @TONY QUINTANA @1TONY QUINTANA @TONY QUINTANA

ICEY MANE USE TOO

TONY QUINTANA JACK BOYZ

@MANEEYAK _BROHAM @MANEEYAK @BROHAM MANIAC @MANEEYAK

@DAREAL YUNGPAPER @YUNGINN @YUNGINNFILMZ @YUNGPAPER @YUNGINN TRACKZ @YUNGINNZO

YUNG PAPER FRESH OUT DA SLAMMER TOUR MAGA ZINE

Brown S By Thomas “Supreme” Parsons

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Sugar Jarohnya STARRING

This is dedicated to the unheralded soldiers of the Hip Hop empire. I’m talking about the exotic dancers, urban models, and video vixens. This one’s for you. TOUR MAGA ZINE

â&#x20AC;¦never give up while facing difficult times.

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I love to be silly, but I’m al so very shy. Peace. Introduce yourself to the people and tell them what you do.

Jarohnya: Hello. My name is Jarohnya. And, I’ve recently relocated from Richmond,VA, to the Atlanta area. I am a full-time makeup artist and model. I love to be silly, but I’m also very shy.

From: Richm ond, VA Height: 5’3” Dimensions: 34-26-38 Age: 28 Social Netw Instagram @orks: Jarohnya

When did you start modeling?

Jarohnya: I started modeling in 2012. At first, I never saw myself as a model. But, I love that it grants me the freedom to come out of my shell.

Do you have other interests in the entertainment industry that you’d like to pursue? Jarohnya:For now, I’m focused on pursuing a career as a celebrity and film makeup artist.

Who’s your favorite Hip Hop artist of all time, and who are you currently listening to? Jarohnya: I don’t have a favorite, but I would probably say Tory Lanez.

Tell me something that people would be surprised to learn about you.

Jarohnya: Most people, who only “know” me through my social media accounts, wouldn’t think that I am an extremely shy person.

What’s the best advice you’ve received?

Jarohnya: Just to never give up while facing difficult times.

What are your plans for the remainder of 2017?

Jarohnya: My plans are to establish my name as a model and makeup artist, in the Atlanta area, to further my career goals.

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INDIE GRIND

BY THOMAS “SUPREME” PARSONS

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For this issue’s Indie Grind, I travelled to the legendary streets of West Baltimore. There, I found a seasoned emcee named Veli Smallz steadily making his way up the city’s Hip Hop echelon. Smallz has made a name for himself as a lyricist. So, I reached out to the brother to see what’s up. Here’s what he had to say.

Let’s imagine that all of Hip Hop is listening. This is your chance to sell yourself. Go.

Peace. Tell us a little about yourself.

It was called Before The Pictures Painted. And ah, it was mainly produced by Cochize and Ojizz. And, I had a few songs produced by Damond Lamont.

Veli Smallz: I’m Veli Smallz. From the Westside

Veli Smallz: I’m original. And, I dedicate my music to a worldwide core. Not just local, but a worldwide core. I’m more international than local basically. Tell us about your most recent project.

Veli Smallz: My most recent was last year, in August.

of Baltimore---Park Heights. I’m an artist and fashion designer.

Where can our readers find you and your music?

How did you get your name?

Veli Smallz: Well, you can find me everywhere

Veli Smallz: Well, basically I was being called Makaveli a long time ago. Then, my brother came home and was calling me Smallz. But, when I thought about it, it’s basically from two of my favorite artists that ever did it---Biggie Smallz and Makaveli, as far as Tupac.

@velismallz. At all social engines, just type in Veli Smallz.

How long have you been rapping?

Veli Smallz: I’ve been rapping since I was probably about 11. Tell us about your fashion line.

Veli Smallz: It’s called Vintage Series 1981. It’s basically like a t-shirt and hat line. Basically, giving you stuff from the 80s---late 80s, early 90s---70s. You know like, just to bring back that era when life was fun. Okay. Let’s get back to the music though. How would you describe your flow to someone who hasn’t heard you?

Veli Smallz: My flow is ah…diverse. Like, I can rap anyway. I’m versatile basically. You know? I’m in the make of the likes of Kanye, J. Cole, and Jay Z basically. Like in those lines.

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The MC… Master of ceremonies, Microphone Checker, the one who can move the crowd. To do it—and do it well—is a gift. Sure, there are countless rappers; but every rapper is not a MC. Unfortunately, far too many of our dopest MCs never truly get heard. We are going to try and change that one region at a time.

n this issue, we are focusing on two emcees from the mid Atlantic region. Namely, we took a look at the lyrically ferocious Fatal Da Cannon and the supremely conscious King Aboriginal. Two artists with varying approaches to the game, but both help to advance the culture. Check them out.

nal

NAME: King Aborigi ore of Virginia FROM: The Eastern Sh H Double M; RELEASES: PreAwakening; ) Freestyle Files Vol. 1 (mixtapes SOCIAL NETWORKS: tagram- kingaboriginal; Facebook - Chad King; Ins pchat - kaboriginal; Twitter - ChadKingab; Sna al YouTube - King Aborigin “…I’m looking to

do big things”

dcan be found on Soun (King Aboriginal’s music .) ck Ma , and Audio Cloud, YouTube, Spinrilla

What sets you apart from the countless other independent artists in the game?

Fatal Da Cannon: I would say the thing that

separates me from them is the uniqueness of what I bring to the table. I definitely feel as though it’s on my behalf to---you know---up my grind and just go that extra mile to make sure that I put myself in front of the people. But, I really think like my diversity and the amount of people that I can touch, and the different places---and make them relate---is what sets me apart from other independent artists.

King Aboriginal: Probably my subject matter. And, I feel as though my lyrics have a lot of content. Not saying that other artist’s don’t. But, I just don’t think that it rivals mine. And, I have my own signature sound, so to speak.

Tell us about your latest project.

King Aboriginal:

My latest project was Freestyle Files Vol. 1. It’s basically an accumulation of freestyles that I’ve done over the past

BY THOMAS “SUPREME” PARSONS 3-5 months, and I added a couple of new ones. And, I’m basically pushing that project as a preparation for The Awakening, which is my album that I’m dropping this summer. So, that was just like an appetizer.

just music, but writing screenplays and video treatments. I plan to take advantage of these promo and marketing opportunities. And, making sure I put myself in the right place, or at least in a position to win. I’m trying to level it up.

Fatal Da Cannon: Right now,

King Aboriginal: I’ve got a show-

I’m working on my first joint collaboration mixtape. It’s called Top Capers. It features myself and OG Bang from the TopSide Boyz. After that, we are going to start pushing the Hood Scholar project. That’s long overdue. I’ve really got to get that out, cause I’ve been like talking about that for a minute. I just got backed up with it. So, it’s going to be Top Capers, and right after that it’s going to lead straight into Hood Scholar Vol. 1, which is my solo mixtape. And, it’s basically me pushing myself back out here as a solo artist.

Lastly, what’s your next move?

Fatal Da Cannon:

I’m trying to definitely up my marketing and promo. Like, I’m really just trying to use this year to upgrade everything about my career---as far as music, as far as---you know what I’m saying---the work that I do. Not

case, in New York, on May 7th. And, I’ve got a meeting with Atlantic Records that month as well. So, hopefully that’ll go through good. I may be opening up for Gucci Mane, in Atlanta. That’s at the end of May. And, like I said, I’m dropping The Awakening, which is all original music. Also, I’m launching a clothing line. So, I’m looking to do big things.

NAME: Fatal

Da Cannon

FROM: Cambridge, Maryla

nd RELEASES: Fatal Attraction Vol. 1; Warning Shot; Life After College; Show & Prove (mi xtapes) SOCIAL NETWORKS: Facebook - Fatal Da Cannon Music Twitter/Instagram/SnapChat - @f ataldacannon

“I’m trying to level it

up.”

(Fatal’s music can be found on Reverbnation, SoundCloud, AudioMack, and YouTube.)

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MUSIC BUSINESS

BY HAO NGUYEN OWNER, STOP THE BREAKS stopthebreaks.com

Top 10 Keys to success for

Independent Hip-Hop Artists

The

independent route is a tough, long grind, no doubt about it. People look at the top independent Hip-Hop artists in the game today like Tech N9ne, Nipsey Hussle and Curren$y and see how they’re balling out of control, but they don’t understand just how much work these artists put into building their lifestyle. Tech and his business partner Travis O’Guin have been building Strange Music, Inc. from the ground up for close to 20 years. Nipsey got dropped by Epic Records before starting his independent grind. Spitta was hustling and learning about the rap game from No Limit and Cash Money since 2002. It’s never easy and takes a special type of person to succeed in the independent music industry. Someone who has the entrepreneurial spirit combined

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with the gritty fortitude to keep going no matter how hard it gets. As a digital platform focused on showcasing independent hip-hop artists from all over the world, Stop The Breaks has had the opportunity to talk with hundreds of artists about their grind and really get an understanding of what creates success in this industry. Here are our top 10 keys to success for independent artists. Or as Future would put it “I got the keys, the keys, the keys.”

1. Understand effective marketing

In its simplest form, marketing is raising the profile of a brand and its products or services in the public’s mind. So in that case, I would say all independent artists understand the basics of market-

ing their music---yes, even those rappers spamming SoundCloud links are doing some form of marketing. But notice that I wrote “understand effective marketing,” which makes all the difference in the world between success and failure. You can market your music by hitting up everyone on your Twitter feed with a link to your new single, or you can effectively market your music by creating a solid marketing strategy and executing it regularly.

2. Relentless

work ethic

There’s a saying: “Hard work beats

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talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” You’re not going to be successful at anything in this world without hard work and dedication, shout out to Money Mayweather. Look at all our case studies on successful artists---whether it’s superstars like Kanye West and Drake or independent grinders like Yo Gotti---the one constant factor is that they put in the long hours above everything else. How do you think Curren$y drops so many projects in one year (8 so far in 2016 and counting)? How do you think Gucci manages to flood the streets even when locked up? How do you think Fetty Wap scored a number one album and five Top 40 hit singles? It’s all about hard work guys. But not just about the music. In addition to putting in the long hours working on your craft, you also have to put in the hours distributing and promoting the music, fine-tuning your live performances, engaging with fans online and offline, and constantly educating yourself on the business side of things. Which brings us to…

3. Music industry knowledge

Like Rap Coalition founder and music industry veteran, Wendy Day, said: “I think the most important trait is seeking out the knowledge and experience to do this properly. You either hire the right people who have the knowledge and connections to help you succeed as an artist or you learn how to do this yourself.” Educating yourself thoroughly on the music business will make a huge difference in your success as an artist. Make sure you understand the fundamentals of music publishing and licensing your content, especially if you’re looking to set up your own independent record label.

4. Strong team around you

To Wendy’s point above, if you don’t have the experience or time to learn about the music business, then you need to make sure you build yourself a strong team to address your weaknesses. Just because you’re an independent artist doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone. There are only so many hours in the day and you have to be smart on which tasks you dedicate your time to and which tasks you delegate. Depending on what you’re missing in your arsenal, consider hiring a manager, marketing director or promoter, tour manager, graphic designer, lawyer and accountant. It doesn’t have to be right away, but you should definitely have a plan to slowly build up your team as you hit new levels in your recording career.

5. Effective social media presence

How many rappers do you know who are really active on Twitter or Facebook, but all they’re doing is spamming their followers with music links? There’s no genuine engagement with fans, no real interaction with followers, just blindly spamming link after link hoping they’re going to be the next big thing. Don’t do this. Trust me, it’ll do more harm than good. It’s good to be active on as many social media networks as possible, but only if you can manage them properly and engage with the fans regularly. Otherwise, don’t spread yourself too thin. It’s better to be active and effective on 3 platforms, rather than on all them and not using them properly.

6. Produce regular content for fans

We’re currently living in a super connected world where consumers are conditioned for instant gratification and trained to get everything, right away. As an artist, you have to try your best to

fulfill these consumer needs. There are only a few major artists out there who can get away with disappearing for months on end and coming back to commercial success. Kanye, Eminem, Drake and Kendrick, just to name a few. Everybody else needs to be continually creating and distributing content to stay in touch with fans. When I say content, I don’t just mean music. It can be social media updates, email newsletters, tour videos, blog posts, and guest articles. Whatever you need to engage with your fans.

7. Investing in building their brand

Investing the time and money to build up your brand now is the most important thing you can do for a long-term career in the rap game. Other artists can copy your ideas, fashion, music, and believe me, they will. The only thing they can’t copy is your brand. Think about the most successful independent artists in the game and how they communicate their brand to their fans. Curren$y has his Jet Life movement, Tech N9ne with his insane live shows and Technicians following, Chance The Rapper and his positive, Chicago music. Everything you put out contributes to building your brand, whether it’s positive or negative. Your new logo has just as much impact on your overall brand as how you perform on tour. It’s a long-term investment, but it’ll definitely pay dividends if you put in the effort now.

8. Focused promotion campaigns

Marketing is your overall strategy of raising awareness of your music and brand to your target audience; promotion campaigns are more tactical and focused. For example, releasing an album would be one promo campaign. To ensure you get the most out of your promotion budget, your campaigns need to be planned out and precise. Consider the best distribution channels for this project. Will it be online, offline or both? TOUR MAGA ZINE

Which platform will you be using--Bandcamp, SoundCloud, iTunes, etc.? Which publications and blogs are you going to be targeting? It’s better to pick out 10-15 to send out personalized press releases rather than spamming 1,000 people with a generic message. Once you have everything in order, hit the launch button.

9. High quality product

Let’s keep this one short and sweet. To be a successful independent HipHop artist, you need to have dope music. I don’t mean Grammy-award winning, critically acclaimed music. I just mean music that will build you a fan base. You need to make music that people want to listen to. Otherwise, it’s not going to work, period.

10. Create realistic goals

Being ambitious is one thing, having realistic goals is another. It’s great if you have ambitions to be the biggest rapper in the world, making the most money, winning awards, selling out stadiums, but having pragmatic, achievable goals is a much better way to approach your recording career. Let’s take a look at J. Cole. He went from posting songs online to standing outside JAY Z’s building, wanting to produce for the legend. Cole dropped mixtape after mixtape and it was only after Hov heard “Lights Please” that he decided to sign the rapper to Roc Nation. From there, he released a number one album, went platinum just last year, and is now selling out stadiums across the world with his very own HBO docu-

mentary and record label, Dreamville Records, financed by Interscope. Having goals is the best way to not drive yourself crazy, thinking that your career is going nowhere. Start off small, e.g., you want to perform in front of 25 people for the first time in your career, you want to drop a mixtape, you want to collaborate with an artist you like, etc. Create a list of realistic, achievable goals. Then, tick them off as you accomplish them. Keep grinding, keep working, keep putting out dope product, keep engaging with your fans and your dreams will come.

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