Thank God for streaming or we might have never heard this track. Just happened to tune in to KMEL one day and there it was. A perfect blend with some other R&B song of the moment (probably R.O.D. or some shit) and J. Cole swooped in.

I about pressed mute, ’cause I’m not really into dude like that, but then Miguel got to doing his thing. After about a minute more into the track I announced, “I like this shit.”

It’s a shame certain markets (Atlanta) are being deprived of music like this… at least on stations that don’t fall into the underground radio format. I can’t remember hearing it on V103 or 107.9, both of which claim to play the hottest shit out.

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A Taste Of Talent
Words: Malika S. Flowers

Despite being a visual Odd Couple Terry Walker and Gardy Balerme know what it takes to be a winning team. Gardy has a teddy bear-like quality that matches his baby face and bright smile. Terry, on the other hand, is slightly more slender with a manly face and bedroom eyes that belie his alert nature. Together, they make up Tastemakers Management Group.

Tastemakers is a company that prides itself on its star making ability. Walker and Balerme use their marketing and promotional skills to provide artists with the complete package to make themselves hit-worthy.

The two are responsible for arming artists with the sounds, looks, promotions, graphics and anything else to make them marketable in an ever-evolving music industry. (continue reading…)

THE POWER OF DECEPTION
WORDS: N. ALI EARLY

Krave is all about illusion.

Composed, jovial and polite, they clearly enjoy each other’s company. They’re respectful of one another’s opinion and even seem to have designated members – Jazzy (politics, sports, etc.), Shan Q (hip hop) and Chanel (industry buzz, etc.) for varying topics of discussion. The newest understudy to Devyne Stephen’s empire, Upfront Megatainment, they are clearly being groomed for stardom. However, given their relaxed demeanor and equally common garb, they’re no more intimidating than three random girlfriends out to lunch.

Within minutes though, it becomes glaringly clear that they are grown ass women with opinions and presence that may ultimately work to define Atlanta’s new star.

The meek impression of them you might have assumed at first sight, is quickly overrun by an engaging discourse that exceeds expectations. They willingly move from the standard rigmarole of girl group fodder, to address topical issues that include the historic 44th Presidency of the United States, Lady Gaga, award shows (BET vs. MTV) and Serena Williams’ stumble at the Open.

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Nipsey Hussle is putting in work like he wants to be the next big thing from the Coast. Not only did he drop a bomb ass mixtape to round out the third installment of his popular Bullets Ain’t Got No Names series, but he’s releasing a video from the collection only a week later.

Balance & Options
Words: N. Ali Early

Jimmie Reign is truly a ‘different person.’ When most would have folded under the pressure of having a child, she looked at the birth of her son as an opportunity to push harder. In and out of the industry for years as a writer and part-time performer, she weighed the options and decided to give it one last shot.

“After you have kids, it pretty much shuts things down and I wanted to say that I at least tried,” Jimmie lends, noting how much a joy raising her 3-year-old son has been. “It made me want to try my dream at least one more time and see if this is what I was supposed to be doing.”

In opting not to cower, Jimmie’s reign officially took its course and soon after, Mprint Music & Management stepped in to help guide her career. With their influence and some help from key players at KMEL, the Bay Area started to pay attention. And The First Lady of the Bay hasn’t looked back since.

(continue reading…)