MUSIC

Legendary music mogul L.A. Reid sat down with Tank and J. Valentine for Episode 142 of the R&B Money Podcast, delivering an insightful conversation about his iconic journey through the music industry. From his early days as a drummer for the R&B band The Deele to leading powerhouse labels like LaFace, Arista, and Epic Records, Reid shared behind-the-scenes stories of discovering and shaping some of the biggest artists in the world.

Throughout the episode, Reid discussed his keen ability to spot talent, his role in shaping the careers of superstars such as Usher, TLC, OutKast, and Toni Braxton, and how he continues to influence the industry today. His reflections on creating timeless R&B and hip-hop records give fans a rare look into the mind of a true visionary.

https://youtu.be/9Z1W1oB1T1o?si=csS_ZcdkiaeQ6pWk

In an exciting reveal, Reid introduced two rising stars from his new label, MEGA: JayDon and Paradise. Both artists took the stage to perform their latest singles, leaving a lasting impression with their fresh sound and undeniable talent. With MEGA, Reid aims to continue his legacy of discovering groundbreaking artists and redefining the music landscape.

https://youtu.be/ivT3O10xUVs?si=gTJBNo67nB-QUs1t

For anyone passionate about music, artist development, and the business of entertainment, this episode is a must-watch. Catch the full conversation on the R&B Money Podcast and witness the insights of one of the most influential figures in the game.

Watch the full episode now and see why L.A. Reid remains a defining force in the industry!

The hip-hop world is reeling after news broke that Irving Domingo Lorenzo Jr., better known as Irv Gotti, has been declared dead at 54. The legendary producer and co-founder of Murder Inc. Records suffered a devastating stroke just days ago, resulting in a brain bleed. While details remain scarce, his passing comes after years of health struggles, particularly his battle with diabetes, a fight he candidly spoke about in his later years.

A Life Dedicated to Hip-Hop

Gotti’s impact on the culture is undeniable. As the mastermind behind Murder Inc., he played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of early 2000s hip-hop and R&B. With a roster that boasted heavyweights like Ja Rule, Ashanti, and Lloyd, he crafted timeless hits that dominated the charts and radio waves. From Always On Time to Mesmerize, his signature sound blended street grit with melodic sensibilities, defining an era of music.

Beyond his work as a producer and label executive, Gotti was a polarizing yet influential figure. His business acumen, relentless hustle, and deep industry ties made him a force in entertainment. Even amid legal battles, federal investigations, and industry shifts, he remained steadfast in his love for hip-hop, expanding his empire into television and storytelling with the Tales series on BET.

A Struggle With Health

Despite his success, Gotti’s personal struggles became increasingly public in recent years. In early 2024, he opened up about the toll diabetes had taken on his life, admitting that the disease was deteriorating his body. Photos surfaced of him appearing frailer, walking with a cane—a stark contrast to the vibrant mogul who once commanded stages and boardrooms.

His recent stroke served as a wake-up call, prompting him to overhaul his lifestyle. Reports indicated that he had begun prioritizing his health, embracing a stricter diet and more mindful living. However, the damage may have already been done.

Speculation and Uncertainty

As news of his death circulates, social media has erupted with speculation. Some reports claim that Gotti was in a vegetative state and on life support before his passing. Twitter (X) has been flooded with posts from fans and industry peers mourning the loss, though official statements from his family and representatives have yet to surface.

While the circumstances surrounding his final days remain unclear, one thing is certain “hip-hop has lost a giant.

A Legacy Cemented

Irv Gotti’s contributions to music and culture are immeasurable. His ability to merge rap and R&B, create anthems that resonated across generations, and build an empire that stood alongside hip-hop’s greatest labels solidified his place in history.

As tributes pour in, it’s clear that his influence will live on. Whether through the artists he helped break, the records he produced, or the stories he told, Irv Gotti’s legacy is forever woven into the fabric of hip-hop.

Rest in power, Irv Gotti.

In a match made in condiment heaven, Heinz has teamed up with Grammy-winning producer Dijon “Mustard” McFarlane to create a special-edition sauce that’s set to shake up the mustard game.

Announced on February 3, the collaboration officially debuted with a commercial during the Grammy Awards on February 2, crowning Mustard with a new title beyond his chart-topping beats: Chief Mustard Officer.

“Real ones know there are only two legendary mustards — ahem, MUSTAAAAAAAAAARRRDs — out there,” Heinz declared in a press release, playing off the producer’s signature tagline.

The hitmaker, known for producing Kendrick Lamar’s Grammy-winning “Not Like Us”, as well as “tv off”, which sparked a viral meme, is now bringing his creative genius to the kitchen. While fans may know him for his signature West Coast sound, Mustard has long had a passion for grilling—and he’s finally turning that love into something everyone can taste.

https://youtu.be/xqZhvgvcbEs?si=I3xNwSCRpniZ3zT4

“This collab coming to life is a big deal and something that has been decades in the making for me,” Mustard shared. “Everyone knows me for my beats and sound, but what they don’t know is that cooking and grilling is a huge part of my life. I’m on the grill every chance I get. I’ve been using Heinz since I was a kid, so partnering with them is something I’ve always wanted to do.”

His love for the brand isn’t just talk—he’s even been spotted rocking a diamond-encrusted Heinz Mustard chain, proving his condiment loyalty goes way beyond the kitchen. Now, in his role as Chief Mustard Officer, he’ll be remixing exclusive recipes, hosting events, and bringing his unique flavor to the Heinz brand throughout the year.

But the real excitement? A secret sauce, co-developed by Mustard and Heinz, is on the way. According to Heinz, this marks the brand’s first national mustard innovation in nearly a decade—and if Mustard’s track record is any indication, it’s going to be a hit.

One thing’s for sure: whether in the studio or on the grill, Mustard knows how to bring the heat.

Day 26 discussed the challenges and trauma experienced by group members, including issues with management, mental health struggles, while signed to Bad Boy and the need for accountability and support for those in the entertainment industry. The group reflected on how hurt people can hurt others, and the importance of understanding the complexities behind public figures’ actions.

https://youtu.be/iowPMOgLu1A?si=yDNOhEAgd0qdC0L9

Ye, the artist formerly known as Kanye West, is finding new creative inspiration these days, thanks to his 11-year-old daughter, North West. The rapper, producer, and fashion mogul took to Instagram early Tuesday (Jan. 21) to share how North has sparked his renewed love for music.

In a series of Instagram posts, Ye revealed that he’s been hard at work in the studio, crafting beats for both North’s debut project and his upcoming Bully album. One standout post featured a black-and-white photo of North, with a heartfelt caption: “This little girl made me love music again. She asked me to make beats for her. I got back on the ASR, chopped up beats for her album, and chopped every beat with my bare hand for BULLY.”

A Family Affair
Ye’s creative process has been a collaborative family effort. Clips from the studio showed North actively participating in the sessions, alongside Ye’s cousin and frequent collaborator, The Wrldfms Tony Williams. Ye also received praise from his longtime collaborator Malik Yusef, who commented on the post, “I’ve been a witness. Seen it with my own two eyes. It’s really good to see the young God YE doing pure magic!!!!”

Even industry heavyweights like Swizz Beatz chimed in with support, adding to the flood of love in Ye’s comments section.

North’s Growing Influence
This isn’t North’s first foray into the spotlight. Last year, she contributed to Ye’s Vultures series, assisting on tracks like “Talking” and “Bomb” from V2. It’s clear that the eldest daughter of Ye and Kim Kardashian is carving her own creative path while continuing to inspire her father.

What’s Next for Ye?
On his own musical journey, Ye is preparing for the release of his highly anticipated Bully album. Earlier this month, he teased the project alongside his reunion with legendary producer Mike Dean, hinting at a return to the innovative sounds that defined his career.

Before wrapping up his Instagram spree, Ye took a moment to pay homage to one of his idols, No Limit Records CEO Master P. “MY HERO,” he captioned the post, adding his signature humor: “Ok, that’s my last post for 12 hours. But when I come back, it may be 20 posts, so don’t trip.”

The Legacy of Ye and North
Ye’s artistic resurgence, fueled by his bond with North, reflects a new chapter for the music icon. From crafting beats for his daughter to pushing boundaries with his own work, it’s clear that Ye’s creative fire is far from burning out.

Stay tuned to NStyleAtlanta.com for the latest on Ye, North, and their exciting musical ventures.

TI and Tiny Harris, the dynamic duo known for their music, reality TV fame, and entrepreneurial spirit, scored a major legal win in September 2024 when they sued MGA Entertainment for trademark infringement. The case revolved around the claim that MGA’s dolls copied the designs and name of the Harris-backed girl group OMG Girlz. A federal jury ruled in their favor, awarding the couple a staggering $71 million.

But the celebration was short-lived. On January 6, U.S. District Judge James Selna made a preliminary ruling that significantly reduced their payout. According to Selna, there wasn’t enough concrete evidence to prove that MGA willfully copied OMG Girlz’ designs or violated the Lanham Act, which governs trademark law. As a result, the couple’s punitive damages were slashed, leaving them with $17 million instead of the original $71 million.

While this decision is undoubtedly disappointing for TI and Tiny, it’s still a win—and a meaningful one. Tiny reflected on the journey in a heartfelt statement to People Magazine:

“We wanted to thank the jurors for just seeing us through this,” she said. “And just believing in what we said. They heard our story and they knew we wasn’t lying. It’s amazing.”

TI also shared his thoughts, emphasizing the bigger picture:
“I think it’s a testament to the relentless resilience of my wife, daughter, and nieces. We’re just happy we were able to come out on top and fight for creatives and our intellectual property.”

Why This Case Still Matters

Even with the payout reduced, this case is a reminder of the ongoing fight for creatives to protect their work and ideas. TI and Tiny’s victory highlights the importance of standing up against large corporations to safeguard intellectual property.

This battle also serves as inspiration for small creators and entrepreneurs who may feel powerless in similar situations. The Harris family’s relentless pursuit of justice proves that it’s possible to challenge big players and make your voice heard.

Stay Updated with Us!

Want more updates on this case, exclusive celebrity news, and entertainment industry insights? Follow our website to stay in the loop. TI and Tiny’s fight isn’t just a headline—it’s a conversation about creativity, ownership, and perseverance. Don’t miss out on what’s next!

Click that follow button and join the discussion today! @nstyleatlanta

Shoniqua Shandai Talks New Music, Creative Vision, and the Return of Harlem

Shoniqua Shandai is a force to be reckoned with. The NAACP Image Award-nominated actress and powerhouse R&B songstress sat down with us to give an exclusive look into her exciting year ahead, and trust us—you don’t want to miss a word of what she shared.

In our interview, Shoniqua opens up about her two highly anticipated singles: “Feel My Love”, dropping January 6, 2025, and “Black”, a soulful anthem set to release on February 7, 2025, just in time for Black History Month. She dives into the creative inspiration behind these tracks, blending her personal experiences, cultural pride, and artistic evolution into music that’s sure to move your soul.

But it doesn’t stop there. Shoniqua also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her journey as an actress, teasing the hotly awaited return of Harlem Season 3, premiering January 23, 2025, on Prime Video. Reprising her fan-favorite role as the unapologetic and hilarious Angie, Shoniqua shares how this season will show new sides of her character while delivering the humor, heart, and sisterhood fans love.

From music to acting, Shoniqua’s talent is unstoppable, and her passion is contagious. Ready to hear her thoughts on blending art forms, staying true to herself, and creating art that resonates with millions?

📺 Click the video below to watch our full interview with Shoniqua Shandai on On The Verfe with Skyebutterfli and get a front-row seat to her world of music, acting, and unshakable confidence. Don’t forget to like, comment, and share—it’s one you’ll want to revisit again and again!

https://youtu.be/yb9VfCJvNcE

On behalf of Grammy award-winning gospel artist Le’Andria Johnson, we want to share

that she has voluntarily checked into a rehabilitation center near Nashville. At this time,

she is taking the time to prioritize her health and heal past trauma. She is committed to

this journey, looks forward to the positive transformation it will bring, and anticipates

returning to the stage in the future.

Le’Andria would like to thank her fans, friends, and family for your continued support.

We ask that you respect her privacy and keep her and her family in your prayers as she

takes this important step. Her management team at 615 JJ Entertainment is thankful for

Le’Andria and for her commitment to her health.

For any questions, please contact Jimmy Maynes

Chris Brown sold out two consecutive shows in Johannesburg, South Africa, performing for over 90,000 attendees each night, showcasing his musical talent and receiving immense love from the crowd.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BROWN (@chrisbrownofficial)

Despite facing opposition from women’s rights activists who petitioned against his show due to his past history of violence, Brown’s concert sold out in less than two hours and received support from fans and attendees who appreciated his performance.

The 39th Stellar Gospel Music Awards took place in Las Vegas at the Orleans Arena on Saturday, July 20th Co-hosted by Emmy Award-winning TV personality and comedian Loni Love, alongside Marconi Award-winning radio/TV personality and comedian Rickey Smiley. 

Winners included multiple wins for Tye Tribbett including the “James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award”, Kim Burrell received the “Aretha Franklin Icon Award”, and more…

The 39th annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards will premiere on the Stellar Network on Saturday, August 3 at 8PM and 11PM EST and in broadcast syndication from August 10, 2024 – September 8, 2024. BET will air the 39th Stellar Gospel Music Awards on Sunday, August 4 at 8 PM ET/PT. The Red Carpet Xpecial will be available via Xumo Play on-demand on August 10. The 39th Stellar Gospel Music Awards to be available on September 9.

Hailing from Brooklyn, singer-songwriter Bonita Jalane has been captivating audiences since 2012. Not only has she graced the stage alongside musical powerhouses like Chris Brown, Monica, and Fantasia, but her vocals have also enriched recordings by artists like Cam’ron.

Now residing in Atlanta, GA, Bonita continues to make waves. She’s known for selling out local shows at renowned venues like City Winery. Her talent has garnered recognition from major media outlets like FOX News, Upscale Magazine, and Huffington Post.

Get ready to be swept away by her latest single, “So High,” produced by Gregory ‘Grams’ Moore. This fan favorite is quickly gaining momentum, and a captivating music video is on the horizon. Check out her interview with Skyebutterfli HERE

Visit Bonita on IG @BonitaSings

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Killer Mike was detained at the Grammy Awards on Sunday after the rapper and activist won three Grammy awards including his first in more than two decades.

In a video posted by the trade website The Hollywood Reporter, Mike was escorted in handcuffs by Los Angeles police at Crypto.com Arena after some joyous moments for him at the Grammys’ Premiere Ceremony on Sunday, where he won his awards in quick succession.

Police spokesperson Officer Mike Lopez said Mike being detained stemmed from an altercation inside the arena around 4 p.m.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hollywood Reporter (@hollywoodreporter)

A representative for Mike did not immediately respond to emails or text messages requesting a comment.

“The only thing that limits your age is not being truthful about your age or what you’re doing,” the 48-year-old Mike said backstage. He won for best rap performance, rap song and rap album.

“At 20 years old, I thought it was cool to be a drug dealer,” he said. “At 40, I started to live with the regrets and the things I’ve done. At 45, I started to rap about it. At 48, I stand here as a man full of empathy and sympathy for the things I’ve done.”

Mike’s first win came after he won for best rap performance for “Scientists & Engineers,” which also took home best rap song. The single features Andre 3000, Future and Eryn Allen Kane.

He won best rap album for “Michael.”

Before Sunday, Mike’s last Grammy came in 2003 when he won for “The Whole World” won for best rap performance by a duo or group.

When he collected his third award, the Atlanta-based rapper shouted out, “Sweep! Atlanta, it’s a sweep!”

As a member of Run the Jewels, Mike, along with producer El-P, pumped out four critically acclaimed albums. He made noise outside of music as a social-political activist who has spoken out against inequality for Black people, race relations and became a vocal supporter of Sen. Bernie Sanders’ 2016 U.S. presidential campaign.

The Grammy-winner hosted Netflix’s “Trigger Warning with Killer Mike,” a 2019 documentary series about issues that affect the Black community. He also made an emotional plea to calm a protest against police brutality that turned violent in Atlanta.

Jay Z accepts the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award at the 2024 Grammy Awards and shades the recording academy for never giving Beyoncé “Album of the Year” despite winning 32 Grammy awards. 

https://youtu.be/W6dBQ2UM6JI?si=BM0Plpmt4sH2FpXT

SILVER SPRING, MD – January 9, 2024 – Today, Urban One announced that GRAMMY™ and EMMY Award-winning singer, OSCAR®-nominated actress and legendary Queen of Hip Hop Soul, Mary J. Blige will be recognized as the prestigious Entertainment Icon Honoree at “URBAN ONE HONORS.” The two-hour “URBAN ONE HONORS: Best in Black” event premieres during Black History Month on Sunday, February 25, 2024 at 8p/7c, on TV One and simulcast on CLEO TV.

Mary J. Blige is one of the defining voices of the contemporary music era. With a track record of eight multi-platinum albums, nine Grammy Awards (plus a staggering 32 nominations), an EMMY award, two Academy Award nominations, two Golden Globe nominations, and a SAG nomination, among many other accolades, Blige has cemented herself as a global superstar. Influenced at an early age by the music of Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, and Gladys Knight, Blige brought her own gritty, urban-rooted style—fusing hip-hop, soul, and honest, frank lyrics—to the forefront on her 1992 debut album “What’s the 411?” The multi-platinum set quickly spun off several hits, including two No. R&B No. 1s: “You Remind Me” and “Real Love.” Blige helped redefine R&B and began forging a unique niche for herself on the more personal second album, 1994’s “My Life.” She is loved for her passionate, chart-topping hits like “Be Without You,” “No More Drama,” and “Family Affair,” all of which have made her a force in music. Over her career, Blige has released 15 studio albums, in addition to starring in films and television programs such as “Mudbound”, “The Umbrella Academy”, “Respect”, “Power Book II: Ghost” and more. 

“Urban One is thrilled to honor the incomparable Mary J. Blige as our 2024 Entertainment Icon. Mary’s immeasurable talent and award-winning music has shaped our culture and has had a profound impact on artists and music across all genres, but most notably the elevation of female artists in both R&B and Hip Hop across generations. She fully personifies the ”Best in Black” theme of this year’s Urban One Honors,” says Michelle L. Rice, President of TV One and CLEO TV.”

Blige joins previously announced esteemed honorees:  Dionne Warwick, recognized as the Lifetime Achievement Honoree; Chlöe, celebrated as the Generation Next Honoree; Frankie Beverly, honored as a Living Legend, and Donald Lawrence, acclaimed for his Inspirational Impact. 

Teyana Taylor, Bebe Winans, Damon Little, Angie Stone, October London, alongside a reunion featuring KeKe Wyatt, Chanté Moore, and Nicci Gilbert (cast of R&B Divas) round out the star-studded lineup of performers and presenters. GRAMMY™ Award-winning singer and actress LeToya Luckett returns to host the event’s “Backstage Pass,” featuring exclusive interviews with the show’s honorees, performers, and presenters.

Sponsors for Urban One Honors include Ally, P&G, Rocket Mortgage, Subaru, Intuit TurboTax, Walt Disney World® Resort, and Walmart.

“URBAN ONE HONORS” is the ultimate celebration of Black Excellence, acknowledging  individuals whose remarkable achievements and significant contributions have left an indelible mark on the arts, media, music, and the community. Presented by TV One, the 2024 “URBAN ONE HONORS” is the official kickoff celebration for TV One’s 20th Anniversary, marking two decades of excellence in entertainment. 

“URBAN ONE HONORS” is produced for TV One by James Seppelfrick of The Cheat Code. Marilyn Gill is the Executive Producer. Myriam Leger will serve as Director and Daniel Moore as Music Director. Kashon Powell is the Vice President of Programming for Radio One and Susan Henry is the Executive Producer in Charge of Production for TV One. 

ABOUT TV ONE NETWORKS

TV One Networks is the hub of black culture and entertainment with a broad offering of original programming and classic series, serving both diverse audiences for TV One and CLEO TV. Launched in January 2004, TV One currently serves 44 million households and CLEO TV, launched in January 2019, is the sister network with a 41 million household reach. Each network has a unique audience that serves viewers with fan favorites from TV One such as Unsung, Uncensored, Fatal Attraction, Payback, Tough Love: Atlanta, Never Would Have Made It: The Marvin Sapp Story and Urban One Honors. While, CLEO TV, a lifestyle and entertainment network targeting Millennial and Gen X women of color, delivers content that uplifts and inspires today’s modern-day woman. Viewers of CLEO TV can expect award-winning content in both original and acquired series including Boss Girl’s Guide, Culture Kitchen, New Soul Kitchen, Just Eats with Chef JJ, Global Gourmet, Living By Design, Tia Mowry’s Quick Fix and All Things Adrienne House to Home. Both networks are solely owned by Urban One, Inc., formerly known as Radio One, Inc. [NASDAQ: UONE and UONEK, http://www.urban1.com], the largest African-American owned and operated multi-media company.

ABOUT URBAN ONE

Urban One Inc. (urban1.com), together with its subsidiaries, is the largest diversified media company that primarily targets Black Americans and urban consumers in the United States. The Company owns TV One, LLC (tvone.tv), a television network serving more than 44 million households, offering a broad range of original programming, classic series and movies designed to entertain, inform, and inspire a diverse audience of adult Black viewers. As of September 30, 2022, we owned and/or operated 66 independently formatted, revenue producing broadcast stations (including 55 FM or AM stations, 9 HD stations, and the 2 low power television stations)  branded under the trade name “Radio One” in 15 urban markets in the United States. Through its controlling interest in Reach Media, Inc. (blackamericaweb.com), the Company also operates syndicated programming including the Rickey Smiley Morning Show and the DL Hughley Show. In addition to its radio and television broadcast assets, Urban One owns iOne Digital (ionedigital.com), our wholly owned digital platform serving the African American community through social content, news, information, and entertainment websites, including its Cassius, Bossip, HipHopWired and MadameNoire digital platforms and brands. We also have invested in a minority ownership interest in MGM National Harbor, a gaming resort located in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Through our national multi-media operations, we provide advertisers with a unique and powerful delivery mechanism to the African American and urban audiences.

(ATLANTA) – November, 22, 2023 – On November 19th, the 2023 Media Girls On Tour Series– powered by Media Girls Network and Media Girls Marketing PR – hosted their annual multi-city tour stop in Atlanta, bringing in 200+ industry professionals during the annual social. In a groundbreaking event that echoed with the beats of hip hop and reverberated with media excellence, the Media Girls on Tour 2023 celebrated a momentous occasion in Fulton County. Led by the visionary Jelisa Raquel  and the Media Girls Network, the tour marked the establishment of the inaugural Black Media & Entertainment Day—a historic proclamation from Fulton County, the largest county in the state.

https://youtu.be/FIahADxLsiA?si=TKinuo1NsB2pFIvR

MGOT 2023 celebrated Atlanta’s TOP media mavens across media and entertainment industries: Hip Hop, TV, film, radio, production, content creation, and editorial/print media. Some of ATL’s best were recognized and honored with proclamations; such as Dina Marto, Ray Daniels, Yung Joc, Deelishis, Chelsea Alexandra, Lia Dias, Liz Smith, Jazmyne Byrd, Lia Dias, Dr. Rashae Barnes, Lalaa Shepard, AR Shaw, Manni Supreme, Aleesha Carter, Belinda Sanders, Antwan Williams, and Latoya Forever!

Attendees received vital information, gems, and tools to gain access and build a career in the entertainment and media industries from some of the most powerful creatives in the industry! This empowerment series included amazing networking, pink carpet interviews by Ellori Nicole, music by DJ E, and DJ A-Rod, plus complimentary beauty touch ups by Slayed by Blades, & Jazz Alexis! The event included plenty of photo ops, delicious bites by Mo Flavorz, Omni Coffee and Eggs, Teranga City and tasty cocktails sponsored by Bomade Vodka, Belaire, and Jade! The MGOT media panels were moderated by April B. & Jasmyne Flowers! MGOT attendees enjoyed exclusive vendors, and VIP Gift bag merchandise provided by sponsors, plus more! The tour is set to travel to New York next for NYFW 2024!

The Media Girls on Tour 2023 Hip Hop and Media Celebration in Fulton County was more than an event—it was a cultural milestone. Through the recognition of 22 creatives and the establishment of Black in Media Entertainment Day, the tour left an indelible mark on the landscape of media and hip hop, paving the way for continued growth, diversity, and empowerment in the industry.

For information on upcoming events, follow the network on Instagram @mediagirlsnetwork, @mediagirlsontour and visit our website at mediagirlsontour.com.