Entertainment
New Interview with Rising Artist NORD
We caught up with artist NORD, to get the scoop on his latest project and success in the music industry.
- First and foremost, I’m glad to have you here with us today. Could you tell us a little bit about your background and how you got started?
My name is Carter Davis, artist name NORD, and I am an 18 year-old Hip-Hop and R&B focused musical artist. I was born and raised in the Portland, Oregon (U.S.) metro area and first began creating music in my self-built bedroom studio in late 2021. I released my first single “INDUSTRY” in August of 2021, and since then it has caught the attention of hundreds of thousands of listeners globally. My music, including my latest single “SORRY”, is available to purchase and stream on all major platforms.
- Do you compose your own music and make your own beats? Is it typically a collaborative effort?
My music is typically created collaboratively, with the instrumental/beat production being put in the hands of a select few producers that I originally met online and have fortunately been given the opportunity to work with consistently since starting my music career. As far as lyric writing and ideas for songs, I typically brainstorm themes and write all of my lyrics independently based on a culmination of my current and past emotions, experiences, and inspirations. My philosophy has always been the idea of collaboration and working with others being a key part in composing music of any kind, so any music you hear from me has most definitely been contributed to in some way by somebody else, or even multiple people that I trust musically.
- Who were your initial musical influences? Who had the greatest overall influence on you?
My initial musical influences were the artists that I listened to the most at the time of beginning my music endeavors, and still listen to frequently to this day. These artists consist of Xavier Weeks, DIRTYXAN, and Kevin Powers. The music and style of these artists have always had a dramatic impact on my musical aspirations and decisions. However, apart from stylistic influence, I consider myself to be my biggest influence in my career.
- What do you believe are the essential stylistic qualities that help your music resonate with listeners?
The essential stylistic qualities that can be observed in my music that resonate with listeners the most would have to be the smooth, melodic instrumentals that still pack a booming kick paired with the punchy Hip-Hop influenced vocals that ride on topics which almost everyone can relate to in their own relationship experiences.
- What has been the most difficult event in your profession or life thus far, and how have you overcome it?
A recurring event that has been somewhat difficult to navigate so far in my career as an artist is commonly referred to as “writer’s block”. Consistently writing meaningful and catchy lyrics that are required to make new songs can be especially challenging at times especially when you’re not motivated and or are lacking inspiration, and working to overcome the fact that constantly writing new meaningful music isn’t a realistic expectation in my workflow has been a journey that I’ve been working on as a new songwriter and musician in the field. Going from having no prior musical experience to just starting composition and publishing of music within the past year has subjected me to a lot of lessons, both short-term and also ones that I’ll be continuously learning for the remainder of my career as an artist.
- On the other hand, what would you consider a high point in your career thus far?
A high point in my career thus far would have to be a very specific achievement; surpassing the milestone of 500,000 unique streams on Spotify. This had been a goal of mine ever since releasing my first single in August, and being able to achieve such a large number of listens in just under 5 months after the fact cumulatively between only the two of my released songs really proved to me that my potential as a musician and artist is not being tapped in anywhere close to its full potential.
- Could you tell us about your latest project, and what fans might expect to hear?
My next big project as an artist will be my debut album, which has yet to be announced, and will be releasing on all streaming platforms nearing the end of 2022. For updates, listeners should follow my Instagram and all of my artist streaming profiles. The songs featured on this project will be the next stepping-stone in establishing my sound as a musician and further expanding my already rapidly growing community of supporters.
From modest beginnings in Augusta, Georgia, Curstin Andrews has carved out a name for himself in the competitive world of acting. Now based in Atlanta, this 25-year-old artist is not just building a career—he’s building a legacy.
Starting from the Ground Up
Curstin’s first foray into acting came in late 2022 when he stepped onto set life as a background extra. While these early roles were silent, they were far from insignificant. They gave him a front-row education in the rhythm of filmmaking, helping him absorb the nuance, discipline, and dedication it takes to thrive in the entertainment world.
By March 2023, Curstin was landing speaking roles—stepping out of the background and into the spotlight. With each new project, his sense of purpose grew clearer: storytelling through character is not just a passion but his calling.
Sharpening the Craft
Determined to evolve as a performer, Curstin began formal training at Mann Robinson Studios under the instruction of Dale Jennings. His journey continued under the guidance of respected acting coaches like Louis Stancil and Lucky Johnson, both of whom helped him refine his emotional range, presence, and authenticity on screen.
On-Screen Journey
From emotionally charged dramas to intense thrillers, Curstin’s growing résumé speaks to his versatility and drive.
🎬 Feature Films
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Pure Pain (Lead) – Directed by Toine South
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Trapoligy (Lead) – Directed by Micheal
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My Killer Ex-Girlfriend (Supporting) – Directed by Johnathan Milton
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Ryder The Movie (Supporting) – Directed by Jaloni Jackson
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Illijah (Supporting) – Now streaming on Tubi
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House of Hope (Supporting) – Directed by Marques Womack
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Additional credits: Twisted Love, Bottle Girl, Callie, Three the Hard Way, and more.
🎥 Short Films
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Who’s There (Lead) – Directed by Alexis Morrison
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Blooming Hearts (Supporting) – Directed by Jasmine Alexander
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Love on Delay (Supporting) – Directed by Jayla Re’Shon
📺 Television
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Ms. Pat Settles It – Co-starred in an episode by 495 Productions
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BMF (Season 3) – Stand-in role on STARZ
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The House & Collective Trust – Co-starred
📣 Commercial & Music Appearances
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Appeared in an Old Spice commercial as a prom-going teen
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Starred in Derrico’s music video Do Not Disturb
Beyond Acting: A Visionary with a Business Mindset
More than just a performer, Curstin is an entrepreneur in the making. He’s the founder of a film production company and has future plans to build a full-service studio. His mission? To create access for underrepresented voices and open doors for new talent across the South.
What’s Ahead
With fame looming, Curstin remains focused on the bigger picture. While he strives for A-list status, his deeper goal is to be a catalyst for change—both on and off the screen. Whether through impactful stories or mentorship, Curstin Andrews wants to shape a more inclusive and dynamic entertainment industry.
Curstin Andrews is not just acting—he’s architecting a future. From breakout roles in Illijah, House of Hope, and Blooming Hearts to his ambitious behind-the-camera pursuits, this rising star’s journey is just beginning. And it’s one the film world will want to follow closely.
American Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, and Audio Engineer James Artissen also formerly known as James Worthy has long considered the name to be central to his life, and identity. It represents the dedication, and the passion towards his craft. Coming from New York, the musician attributes his hometown as a major influence on his style, and sound. Born James Allen Worthy on March 28, 1992 in Queens, New York, James began pursuing music at the age of 16. During that time period James had the opportunity to meet the late great Michael Jackson at Webster Hall in New York City which inspired James to fully pursue a career in the music business.
After moving to Atlanta, GA the singer, songwriter, and producers first musical experience was at his high school recording studio through a music mentoring program sponsored by Dallas Austin. His initial foray into music consisted of learning the art of songwriting which later turned into music production shortly after. Artissen was also highly influenced by artists such as: A Tribe Called Quest, Whodini, Kanye West, Miguel, The Weeknd, and Pharrell Williams. While studying those artists he began to teach himself how to sing in 2009. To further his education, he attended The Art Institute of Atlanta where he received a bachelor’s degree in audio production. This helped him begin working, and placing his work with mainstream acts, and songwriters.
Ty Dolla $ign
Tory Lanez
6LACK
PartyNextDoor
Khalid
The Weeknd
Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/
https://www.twitter.com/
https://www.facebook.com/
https://www.tiktok.com/@
Streaming:
https://www.youtube.com/@
https://www.soundcloud.com/
https://open.spotify.com/
Billboard Top Hip-hop
Marc “Mayjah” Payne Elevates in the game with New Album Levels of Payne, Featuring Rap Icon Shorty T and Kung Fu Rasta Sifu Bosco
LOS ANGELES, CA – Rising hip-hop artist and social media influencer Marc “Mayjah” Payne unveils his latest studio album, Levels of Payne, a boundary-pushing musical journey that blends West Coast lyricism, Southern grit, and Caribbean soul. With high-profile features from New Orleans rap legend Shorty T and St. Lucia’s reggae ambassador Sifu Bosco, this project solidifies Mayjah Payne’s position as one of the most dynamic new voices in global hip-hop.
Hailing from the West Side of Los Angeles, Mayjah Payne built his reputation not only as a gifted lyricist but also as a multi-talented producer and storyteller. Known for using hip-hop as his artform to speak on life, struggle, and ambition, he’s no stranger to growth. Levels of Payne reflects that evolution—a matured, sharpened sound fused with international influence and raw authenticity.
The album’s standout track, “Don’t Mean Nothin,” pairs Mayjah’s slick bars with Shorty T’s Southern bounce and storytelling, forming a gritty anthem about surviving through adversity and rising to the top. Meanwhile, “Ashes To Ashes, Dust to Dust” brings a melodic twist as Sifu Bosco’s reggae harmonies flow effortlessly with Mayjah’s laid-back delivery, celebrating heritage, unity, and peace through music.
With Levels of Payne, Mayjah Payne continues to expand his creative legacy. His previous projects have earned airplay on over 72 radio stations and charted Top 40 on 34 of them, and this latest release is already generating buzz across streaming platforms. Known for his high-energy performances and verified Instagram reach, Mayjah is taking this project worldwide to connect with audiences from California to the Caribbean.
Critics are already calling Levels of Payne his most complete and ambitious work to date. “This is for the art – this is for the culture,” says Payne. “It’s not just about where I’m from—it’s about where we’re all going. Music should bring people together. That’s what this album is all about.”
Levels of Payne is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, and TIDAL. For fans of authentic hip-hop with a global heartbeat, this album is a must-listen.
Follow Marc “Mayjah” Payne on Instagram and other social media platforms @MayjahPayne and visit www.mayjahpayne.com for interviews, bookings, and press inquiries.
Watch “The Streets Don’t Love You” from the project “Levels of Payne” here below on the @MayjahPayne instagram page.
https://www.instagram.com/
Curstin Andrews: Redefining Success in Film, One Role at a Time
The Music Industry’s Hidden Gem: James Artissen
Marc “Mayjah” Payne Elevates in the game with New Album Levels of Payne, Featuring Rap Icon Shorty T and Kung Fu Rasta Sifu Bosco
NALA, 23-YEAR-OLD MILLIONAIRE WHO LIVES BY PASSION
NOMADS are changing the landscape of the music business
