Wow, can you believe Summer is already coming to an end?! I must say, I spent the whole summer getting things in order and my mind together, so Fall is going to be LIT. Any who, i'm bringing you all of the end of Summer vibes in this playlist. From saying farewell to all of the friends you never got to hang with, to setting the mood for "cuffing season", there's something for everyone.
You know what to do, hit shuffle, press play & vibe your way into a new season!
In honor of this weekends annual "San Francisco Pride" celebration, it was only right that I introduce you to SF-native & multifaceted artist 'Micahtron". While she creates club friendly, bass thumping tracks that make you want to dance, she's balances it out with her social/politically conscious lyricism.
From playing at small clubs, rocking out on main stages at Pride, and taking Europe by storm; it's safe to say Micahtron is definitely making a name for herself. Simultaneously dropping her first EP "Haven" along with a mixtape "Mood" earlier this year, Micah has been riding the residual waves of her recent splash. From hosting her own parties, performing at huge events like Austin's "SXSW" and the upcoming "SF Pride" celebration, you can bet your money that this hard-working bad ass has no plans on slowing down anytime soon.
Keep reading for more about this talented, independent & International Queer artist.
You’re pretty much a “one-stop-shop".-Produce, Engineer, Write etc…
What caught your attention first? What made you expand?Can you describe what type of music you make for those that are new to you?
- I would say it was all organic, and in a way I was unconsciously learning all of those things at once. I fell in love with music at a young age, and by the time I turned 13 in 2000. I was recording my own mixes on cassette tapes. My mother bought me a karaoke machine, and I would download beats from online onto CDs. Then I'd put the CD into the Karaoke machine and freestyle over the beats and record it all onto cassette. As time and technology grew, I grew musically. Learning all three elements of music but focusing solely on writing and recording. I didn't know many people with studio access so I had to learn to be my own producer and engineer. I would describe my music as a Hip-Hop Hybrid, I grew up listening to so many different genres and I think that shows in my music, but it is no doubt Hip-Hop rooted!
The past few years, you’ve been putting in major work.
-European Tour: Berlin, Australia, etc
How did you end up in Europe?
- In 2014, I was booked to perform at a women's festival in Italy that got cancelled on short notice, but i decided to take the trip anyway. The day I flew out I got an offer to open for The Internet in Berlin which was the city I was flying into, to then travel to Italy. From that 9 day trip I met some great artists and people who immediately encouraged me to come back to visit. So months later I found myself quitting my day job to follow up on some show opportunities back in Berlin. What was supposed to be a months trip turned into 6 months, allowing me to play a number of shows in Germany and surrounding countries before I was set to play in Australia on NYE 2015. Quitting my job at that time was the best decision for me and it allowed me to open up so many doors! I will be heading back to play some shows in Berlin this April and Australia again later this year!
Decision to go independent.
-Importance of protecting the integrity of your craft
- While under contract with my management I'm still a independent artist. I've never been signed to a label, and have never had that sort of backing. So releasing my music by myself with no help is first nature for me. I had been waiting for help and opportunities that Never came so I decided fuck it I need to put this music out! Which allows me to move forward and create more new music.
You’ve been featured in many publications such as East Bay Express, SF Gate & more. You display such a sex positive, confident queer, politically sound ‘Jill of all-trades’.
Could you elaborate of the importance of breaking free of the ‘norms’ and what a “Lesbian/Rapper” etc should look like.
- I'm one for encouraging others to live their lives without regards for anyones opinions and feelings. You only have one life, why spend that time hiding who you really are and who or what you love. If you are a homosexual Musician, say that and share you experiences! No mater who rejects your identity or sound, there is always a crowd that will love you and relate to your lyrics. No matter what the content, people will relate. And being open and honest about who you are is always best. I don't think it should look like anything other than what is within. If you not true to you than your music won't be either. As artists we have the platform to stand up and speak for those who are afraid to, and that's what we all should be doing.
What does it mean to be YOU. Why is it important to use your voice and have it heard.
- Having that open identity means everything to me, it's allowed me to life without caring what people think of me, and it has allowed me to channel that into music.
I know were both big on thrifting and flea markets; they truly help me uphold my own unique style.
How would you describe your style and do you have any influences or people of whom style you also like.(Importance of originality?)
I would say my style is a mix between the old and the new. I've been a vintage head for over 10 years now, and have collected so many pieces that remind me of my childhood! I'm heavy on vintage sports wear, jerseys of all sports. Some of my favorite ball players actually influenced my style along with a lot of my favorite artists growing up. People like TLC, Queen Latifah, Spike Lee, Michael Jordan, Dione Saunders. Their style in the 90s is probably what my style looks like today. Lol. But what strikes me most about vintage clothing is originality, some items I have were only released once and never made again! But also I love knowing that the chances of someone wearing the same thing as me is slim to none. Its priceless.
It’s so easy to get over stimulated by all of the outside influences and lose sight of your authentic desire. I always ask thriving creatives, “what are 2 or 3 methods/things that keep you motivated and in alignment with your big picture?
- Past, present and future. I always look at things in terms of what my life has already been. I was born into a struggling and sometimes homeless family. I made a way for myself simply by teaching myself more about the world and setting goals to get out and see that world, that is my present. And what I visualize as my future, is almost a fantasy. But if I continue to set goals, stay motivated, accept failure, and always thrive for better. I could be there, and I will get there. Because all fantasies are but a mere projection of the life you have worked so hard for, and the life you feel you deserve. Right?
Be sure to check her out & follow her around!
YouTube
I'm baaaaackkk!! Due to a heavy work/school load, a hiatus was very much in order. Although I've been out of sight for a few months, I haven't been completely out of the loop. These past few months have produced so many songs I love to keep on repeat. From It's definitely been a great build up to what's in store for summer.
I found the perfect time to pop back up. I mean, it's only right that an Aries would bring you fire tracks to kick of a blazing summer. (see what I did there lol)
You know what to do.. hit shuffle, press play, vibe out.
Rounding up the hottest new tracks from the last couple of weeks.
So much great music has been released & you can find a lot of it here.
From Kehlani's new bangin album 'SweetSexySavage' to local rapper J.Hurt with "Lost My Soul in Pasadena"; you can count on hearing a couple of songs from "trap-masters" Migos, as well as a few tracks from Compton's very own, Problem. Lets not forget new music by The Strokes called "Drag Queen" and my personal favorite song for the moment, "Electric" by Alina Baraz ft. #Khalid.
Seriously, there's over two hours of great music. Hit the link, press shuffle & vibe your way into a new month.
After holidays & finals, I find my way back to Monday. Thank goodness the show doesn't stop & new music is constantly making it's way out. The exciting part about this new week is that it also a new month... the last one of the year at that! Not only do we get to gear up for round 2 of holiday season, but we also can start rounding up the year. No better way to kick off the week with a hot new playlist. Considering I didn't curate a playlist the last couple of weeks, I doubled back to a few new singles that dropped before turkey day, all while including a few hot new releases.
There's truly been so much great music being released, it's hard to sit still. Be sure to check out a couple of albums also kept in rotation; from Quin's fantasy soul-tastic "Galactica", to "Free 6lack" evoking "ex problems", and the latest from mutifaceted Donald Glover, aka Childish Gambino, "Awaken, My Love!"
Back at it with a booming playlist to help get you through the week! Once again, bringing you some of the latest and hottest tracks from a few of your favorite artists. Not to mention, all of the newbies that made their way into the mix. This weeks mashup includes "War Ready" from Vince Staples and his new album "Prima Donna", a sick EDM/Trap mix-up of Rihanna's "You Needed Me" by ELJAY, as well as my summer anthem "OOOUUU" by Young M.A.
Whatever your pleasure is, there's a high chance you'll find at least one new favorite out of the mix. If infact you don't come across something that excites you, let me know! Feel free to send me suggestions of artists and music from any genre of music. The purpose of doing "NMM" is to be able to continuously provide a platform for those coming up and or new music coming out. I don't only aim to give you ear candy, I aim to open up your mind to sounds you may otherwise dismiss. My playlist helps you step outside the box, even if only for a second.
Hit shuffle, press play, VIBE OUT!
Back at it with your "New Music Monday" fix! After giving you over two hours of heavy hitting, bass thumping, summer vibes with the Hello August playlist, I wanted to mellow you out with something you can groove to. This weeks playlist is mostly curated of songs suggested by "word of mouth".
The older I get, the more I realize that I'm no good with small talk and conversation fillers. There is one universal subject that I use to help break any type of ice, and that gem is MUSIC. I may fumble over my words asking "What do you like to do for fun?", or even draw a blank when you tell me you go to college & I forget to ask "What are you studying?" With music, I pull up the "notes" in my phone, hand it you, and ask for you to "put me on".
I won't go so far as to say that music makes the person, but I can say it's a great way to get a glimpse into the different worlds we let ourselves get lost in. As for me, the excitement of discovering new artists and melodic mix-ups, far surpasses the discomfort of breaking the ice. So, if you're ever at a lost for a conversation piece, start asking about music & be open to what you receive.
Thank you to everyone who contributed their amazing suggestions!
Until next time.
-Twanie
xoxo
Here we are in the thick of summer, time sure does fly by! It's been about a couple of months since I've brought you a new playlist to help you get through the week. Fortunately, I've been building an extensive playlist of new & hot songs, as if your summer wasn't warm enough. From Kehlani letting you know she may be a little "CRZY" to emerging artists Leaf ft. Lil Yachty hitting you with "Nada", you can expect to feel all types of vibes. The best part about this playlist is the amount of new names & sounds. I don't just aim to bring you new music from artist you know/like, I hope to open other doors for you to explore as well. So dive in, hit shuffle, & vibe out!
Ready to kick off a new week with a new month just around the corner? It's been two weeks since i've brought you a "New Music Monday" playlist, so you know I had to follow up with some hits. Every day that I come up on a new sound or new artist, my love for music gets stronger & deeper. I hate to hear when people say "good music is dead". Yes, i'm a huge fan of the older music, but there are original sounds emerging everyday. Whether you're looking to 'turn up', wind down, zone-out, or take it back, my goal is to bring you a taste of all that you need & more every Monday! Some of it you'll like, & some you won't, but there's something for everyone... so enjoy!
*P.S.: Chance The Rapper: Coloring Book (let that sink in)
Wow, is it really May already? Time definitely seems to be flying for me. I remember when I had way too much time on my hands, & now I can't seem to find enough to get everything done. No qualms over here. I figure, if Beyonce can do it... no excuses. Haha.
This week, I got lucky with some last minute releases from a few upcoming artist. A couple of those gems actually dropped just a few hours ago; MAMA ft Dani Leigh, Kreesha Turner & Brooke Valentine & Noel Scales with "Time to Fly". I've added a spice of Bay Area native MicahTron, with her version of "Summer 16", along with a few new names, I can't forget the sexy new single from one of my favorites, Verse Simmonds with "Let Me Know".
Plug in, Press Play, & get to groovin!
Click play & enjoy!
Ooops, I did it again! I'm late posting this weeks 'New Music Monday', so you know it's going down on a Tuesday. Nonetheless, it's my birthday week, so I had to make sure that this playlist was something I can celebrate too.
This week, I start you off with my favorite song for the past 3 weeks or so, 'All The Way Up' by Fat Joe ft Remy Ma & French Montana. The moment I heard this song during my trip in NY, I knew I would be putting someone on in the West. While there are plenty of songs to celebrate to including new pop sensation Riley Biederer, with her song "Out Of My Mind', or a more sexy reggae vibe with new artist Ramriddlz ft. Justine Skye 'Come C Mi'; this weeks playlist also includes a smooth alternative band from the UK, a new vibe friendly song from Kid Cudi, some hard hitting Hip Hop/Rap from A$AP Ferg ft. Schoolboy Q, and much more! You don't know to miss out.
Ready for some New Music!!
This week's playlists features upcoming West Coast artists Candice Pillay with her own version of Yo Gotti's "Down In The DM", as well as E.Cov, with his latest track "Hall Of Fame". Not to mention a taste from the south with Two-9, or heat from the East Coast to keep you warm, while you "Make It There" with Shake070.
Along with the mentioned songs, i've thrown in a few bangers from artist you probably already know.
Let me know what's your favorite song on the playlist!
Until next time,
-Twanie
If you didn't get a chance to check out Pt. 1 of my Spring Break & want to see Miami through my eyes, Welcome to Miami!!
Alright, alright, I know what you're thinking... "How are you just gonna hit me with "New Music Monday" on a Tuesday?" Simple... just like that.
I figured, i'm better late than never right? Hopefully, I can make up for it by giving you not only a playlist of hot singles, but a full album from a man with an awesome sound.
This week brings you a slew of variety. Whether you're tryna "Whip It" with Bia aka Perico Princess, visit Cloud 9 with Euroz & his smooth single "Cannabis", or get inside the vibes with 9192, as they bring you their new single "Autumn", your music palate should be satiated.
Grab your earphones & get to vibing, because it's going up on a Tuesday!
Alright, so I know I've been slacking on the new music. In effort to make it up, I've brought you a nice variety of sounds to check out. Truthfully,YesJulz has been keeping me busy with her playlists. Unfortunately, SoundCloud recently shut her page down on some BS. Hopefully, she'll be back up with the exclusives on her "New Music Monday". Until then, check out her agency's page...& If you haven't heard of her, GOOGLE.
THE OLD
This first track, isn't quite new but new to me. Here's the Finessin remix by Baby E ft. Kevin Gates & Lil Bibby. Head over to SoundCloud to hear the original version as well as additional remixes.
THE NEW
Next up, I've got something for you Bryson Tiller lovers. He teams up on Sy Ari Da Kid's new single, 'Priorities'. All I can say is, make it a priority to check out this song. This is r&b goodness you don't want to miss.
THE LOCAL
Thank goodness for friends who like good music. When asking for music suggestions, a friend told me to check out this artist named D. Niro. I trust her musical judgment, especially adding that "he was a young dude from my hometown, killin it... Definitely up next". I'm going to second that motion. I'm diggin his sound & can't help but love that he's a left-coaster. (West-Coast)
Did you like what you heard?! What's your favorite track? Don't forget to head over to SoundCloud to hear more from these great artist. Until next Monday... make this week YOURS!
-Twanie
Welcome to a new week folks!
Hopefully you're ready for some new music, especially from none other than the man Drake, himself. I'm sure you've heard of the controversy brewing between him and Meek Mill. Apparently Meek indulged in a little Twitter rant, including calling out Drake for using a ghost writer. To further messy-fy (totally not a word) the situation, Meek went on to name drop the so-called ghost writer for Drake.
Unfortunately, I couldn't tell you much more about this ongoing situation & to simply put it in Tyga's words "I'm not here for the tea." Guess you'll have to check out the gossip blogs for that. ;-)
What I can provide for you is Drake's official 'diss' track to Meek called 'Charged Up', which was released over the weekend along with a few other new songs on his new 'OVO Sound Radio'. Mr. OVO takes a couple shot's at Meek & Nicki as well as addressing the rest of the messiness in the rap game.
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*UPDATE: Looks like Drake felt the need to "body" Meek Mill with a follow-up diss freestyle called "Back To Back". OUCH!
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This next track might be my new jam to play on repeat. Hotline Bling (Cha Cha Remix) is the perfect chill song. Of course Drake is talking about another ex that may have blossomed after him, but i'm here for it. I'm loving the whole feel of this track. Grab a drink and two-step your way around the house.
Let me know what you think of these new songs?
Until next time...
-Twanie





















