Tag: Bandplay

  • Starlito’s ‘Not The Country You Know’ Film

    When you think of Nashville, what comes to mind? For many, it’s the Grand Ole Opry, Music Row, and the bright lights of Broadway. But rapper Starlito, a proud native, knows there’s so much more to his city than the country music clichés. He’s teamed up with producer Bandplay to showcase the vibrant Black culture of Nashville in their new short film, ‘Not The Country You Know.’

    Beyond the Postcard: A Tour of Black Nashville

    This 12-minute documentary, filmed by Willie C. Robinson, is more than just a visual accompaniment to Starlito and Bandplay’s collaborative albums, ‘Unhappy Hour’ and ‘Last Call.’ It’s a personal tour of Starlito’s hometown, highlighting beloved monuments and, crucially, Black-owned businesses that are the lifeblood of the community. He wants to broaden the horizons of how people see Nashville.

    As Starlito cruises through the city, he shines a light on Nashville’s rich heritage. He points out significant landmarks like the Citizens Savings Bank and Trust Company, the oldest African-American bank in the nation, and introduces viewers to various Black entrepreneurs. Businesses like Alkebu-Lan Images, Ed’s Fish House, Dukos and Makeshift, and the popular Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria are featured, offering a glimpse into the local flavor.

    Music and Community Intertwined

    Interspersed with these cultural snapshots are behind-the-scenes glimpses of Starlito and Bandplay in the studio, working on tracks for their new albums. You’ll see them crafting songs like ‘Walk Away,’ ‘How You Wanna Play,’ and the title track, ‘Not The Country You Know.’ The film also features appearances from other artists who contributed to the project, including Young Buck, Grady “Dirty” Block, Robin Raynelle, and Chano.

    This film serves as a powerful reminder that music often springs from the environment and experiences that shape an artist. By showcasing the real Nashville, Starlito and Bandplay are not only sharing their music but also celebrating the community and heritage that inspire it.

    Have you seen ‘Not The Country You Know’? What are your favorite hidden gems in Nashville or your own hometown? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • New Music Friday: 50 Hip-Hop & R&B Drops

    Happy New Music Friday! If your weekend playlist is looking a little sparse, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Today marks the release of a massive wave of new tracks and albums from the worlds of Hip-Hop, R&B, Reggae, Dancehall, and Afrobeats. Get ready to press play and dive into some fresh sounds!

    Must-Hear Albums and EPs

    This week’s releases are packed with heavy hitters and exciting new projects. Flying Lotus drops his latest offering, ‘Big Mama,’ promising his signature experimental sound. Meanwhile, Gnarls Barkley returns with ‘Atlanta,’ and Ty Dolla $ign delivers ‘girl music vol. 1,’ hinting at a collection of smooth, R&B-infused tracks.

    For those craving more, Fredo Bang unleashes ‘Most Hated 2,’ while Nettspend presents ‘early life crisis.’ Don’t sleep on Icewear Vezzo’s ‘Ladies Free Til Midnight,’ Shabaka’s ‘Of The Earth,’ Trae Tha Truth’s ‘Farewell,’ and Don Cannon & The Cool Kids’ ‘Gone Fishing (Extra Credit).’ Plus, Joey Cool’s ‘Time Will Tell’ and Swavy’s ‘FOR THE GIRLIES’ are also on the radar.

    Standout Singles and Collaborations

    Beyond full projects, there are plenty of singles making waves. Cash Cobain kicks things off with “WISH,” while Nia Smith and DESTIN CONRAD team up for “Tough.” Mike WiLL Made-It enlists Travis Porter and Monaleo for “Standing O,” and Cypress Hill collaborates with Alemán on “Wacha Trucha.”

    Denzel Curry features 1900Rugrat and Key Nyata on “MUTT THAT BIH.” Omarion is back with “Fantasy,” and kwn offers “hopeless romantic.” Jeremih also drops a new track, “N.O.M.A.,” and the late Juice WRLD teams up with Marshmello for “We Don’t Get Along.” Keep an ear out for 1 Umbrella featuring Larry June on “Off Top.”

    The collaborations continue with Jeremih, Kevin Gates, and MadMaxx on “Stroke U Up.” Ayra Starr asks “Where Do We Go,” while Hus KingPin, Raekwon, and Kurupt present “Hang Glide Samurai.” Sauce Walka is back with “Streets Ain’t The Same No More,” and Ama features Brent Faiyaz on “Need it Bad.”

    Sleepy Hallow and Sheff G join forces for “Baby I,” and DJ Paul brings in Yelawolf and Young Buck for “3 The Hardest Way.” Luhh Dyl’s ‘Till Then’ is out, and Isaiah Falls shares “Taboo.” DaniLeigh drops “G.O.D,” and Kamal. features Keaton Henson on “no friend, no lover.”

    More Gems to Discover

    The list goes on! Starlito and Bandplay feature Skeez on “Walk Away,” while Skrilla drops “Bazin.” Naomi Sharon shares “Miss That,” and Karrahbooo delivers “No Hook.” October London taps Tonio Armani for “Touch On Me (Remix),” and Arima Ederra presents ‘A Rush To Nowhere.’

    JNR CHOI is back with “PICK UP,” and Channel Tres offers “Medicine.” Jack$ features Thickney on “Hottie.” Also, look out for tracks like “NSD” by Sk8star featuring Teezuz and diamond*, “MANDEM” by Ayox featuring DeCarlo, and “Outta Time” by Aklesso, Kaden Jordan, and Aha Gazelle. Finally, Alvin Garrett’s ‘Talk To Her Like This’ and Sha Summers’ ‘Why Do Fools Fall In Love’ round out the extensive list.

    Which of these new releases are you adding to your playlist first? Let us know your top picks in the comments below!