Billboard Top Hip-hop
Breaking News: Legacy City’s Historic Grammy Nomination Shocks Music Industry! See Why Everyone’s Talking!
In the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry, few stories resonate with the essence of true grit and determination quite like that of Legacy City, the independent artist who has not only captured the hearts of his fans worldwide but has also carved a niche for himself in the competitive realm with his latest album, “Standing On Business”. This year, his relentless pursuit of excellence has culminated in a prestigious Grammy nomination, a testament to his undeniable talent and entrepreneurial spirit. Legacy City’s journey has been anything but conventional. Eschewing the traditional pathways of the music industry, he has remained fiercely independent, a decision that has not only defined his career but has also allowed him a level of creative freedom seldom seen in today’s heavily commercialized music scene. This independence has fueled his rise, making his Grammy nomination not just a personal victory but a victory for independent artists everywhere. “Standing On Business,” Legacy City’s newest album, is a compelling blend of poignant lyrics, innovative beats, and a rawness that is increasingly rare in today’s music.
It serves not just as a collection of tracks but as a manifesto of Legacy City’s ethos – a blend of resilience, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to his craft. Through this album, Legacy invites listeners into his world, sharing stories of triumph, struggle, and the relentless pursuit of success against all odds. What makes Legacy City’s Grammy nomination especially significant is the path he’s chosen to reach this point. In a world where music often feels mass-produced, Legacy City’s work stands out for its authenticity and depth. His business acumen, akin to his musical talent, is equally impressive. Moving with a militant zeal, he has made key business moves that have not only cemented his place in the music industry but have also showcased a blueprint for success without compromise. As an independent artist, Legacy has navigated the complexities of the music industry with strategic precision. From marketing his music, managing his brand, to even charting the distribution paths for his albums, every step is a calculated move that reflects his mantra: standing on business. His approach to the music industry is emblematic of a changing tide, where artists are now at the forefront of innovation, not just in their art but in their business models as well.
Legacy City’s Grammy nomination is more than just an acknowledgment of his musical talent; it is a recognition of his resilience, his entrepreneurial spirit, and his ability to inspire. It signifies a shift in the music industry’s values, highlighting the importance of authenticity, hard work, and the courage to carve out one’s path. As we celebrate Legacy City’s achievements, his story serves as a beacon for independent artists everywhere. It underscores the fact that with passion, perseverance, and strategic business sense, barriers can be broken, and dreams can become reality. Legacy is not just standing on business; he is redefining it, proving that even in the most militant movements, there is melody, and in independence, there is a path to unprecedented success.
Billboard Top Hip-hop
“Ashwin’s Spectacular NBA Debut at the Intuit Dome”
On February 4, 2025, Ashwin, a talented artist, will grace the Intuit Dome with a remarkable performance as the opening act for the highly anticipated game between the LA Clippers and the LA Lakers. Directed and choreographed by the brilliant Destiny Frye, this visual spectacle promises to be extraordinary, showcasing a groundbreaking concept within the state-of-the-art $2.1 billion stadium.
This performance marks a significant milestone for Ashwin as it will be his debut appearance at an NBA event. The excitement surrounding this first-ever NBA performance is palpable, with fans eagerly anticipating the innovative and electrifying presentation that Ashwin is set to deliver.
Destiny Frye, the visionary behind this event, is the owner of Hip Hop Dreamz and the Origin Performing Arts Dance Studio. With a decade of experience in orchestrating NBA primetime performances, Destiny is celebrating her 10th anniversary of collaboration with the NBA, making this event even more special.
Destiny and her team are thrilled to bring Ashwin’s music to the forefront, promising an unforgettable experience for the audience. Although this is Ashwin’s inaugural NBA performance, it marks the beginning of a promising journey, and fans can expect many more captivating collaborations in the future. Ashwin is recognized as a trailblazer of his generation, and the anticipation for his future projects is already building. This event is not just a performance; it’s a celebration of artistry, innovation, and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for Ashwin and Destiny Frye in their creative endeavours.
Billboard Top Hip-hop
Platinum Audio Engineer & Award-Winning Writer Mark “Savage” on Entering Management and Tackling Patriarchy
For years, Mark “Savage” Sanders bold, dynamic mixing style has landed him work behind the boards of major tours and hit records alike. Working with artists like Shordie Shordie, Lizzo, Coi Leray, Kevin Gates, Fetty Wap, Kelly Rowland and more, Mark sports an ever-expanding discography of cutting edge of popular music. We spoke with Mark to get insights into his career arc, workflow, and to understand how his unique sound is built upon a firm foundation of technical skill, knowledge and deep listening.
For starters, could you tell me how you got into engineering?
So at my high school they had an early college program where you could get your associates or a certificate by graduation. I wasn’t looking to be an audio engineer. I don’t even think I really knew what an audio engineer was, which makes it all the more crazy. I saw music production schools, but I went for audio engineering at Full Sail University.
What boards were you working on when you were doing live sound?
It was whatever the house had. Working on Mackie boards or Yamaha boards that only had seven inputs that worked—Avid and Midas consoles, the M32s, the Behringer X32, a lot of different stuff. Being a live sound engineer taught me so much signal flow and having to adapt to different spaces and different gear all the time. If I’m on tour and we’re generally using the same board, we’re probably never using the same monitors for front-of-house. The rooms are bigger or smaller—different places have different problem areas—being in a stadium or doing a festival where you have delays and all that stuff is just insane.
So you were ghostwriting, engineering, producing, and rapping in the beginning?
Yes I did it all except play an instrument.
Now today you’ve received a BMI Award, 2x Platinum, and over 12,000 sync placements how does it feel?
If I had to be honest I don’t care about any of it anymore. I want to see my Son win big like this. I’m more into family these days. I did everything I wanted in life and overachieved. I’m good!
We see you have Royalty ENTERTAINMENT & managing as far as entertainment goes what else can we expect?
Whatever God does. I’m not chasing anything anymore. Focused on living life, family, and wealth/health. Definitely support my DJ, DJ King, Ashley Blaire, and Pretty Liyah. Other than that I’m about to be out the way. (He laughs) I’m so burnt out. I’m chilling.
Last question, seeing that you did everything you wanted is there anything left that you haven’t 2025 going forward?
No just travel more that’s it. Like when I say I’ve given life everything I’ve had. I’ve given it everything. Plus I think most people are waiting for me to be famous or something which I’m avoiding and praying never happens.
Billboard Top Hip-hop
From Small Town Dreams to Entertainment Powerhouse: The Rise of Dominique Danielle
Dominique Danielle’s journey from the slums of Alton, Illinois, to becoming a multi-talented entertainer is a testament to perseverance and passion. As a preteen, her mother moved her to Atlanta, Georgia, in pursuit of better opportunities in music and entertainment. This bold decision would set the stage for Dominique’s remarkable career.
Her love for music led her mother, who also acted as her manager, to approach Atlanta’s top hip-hop radio station, Hot 107.9. This serendipitous move unexpectedly launched Dominique’s career in radio. Under the mentorship of industry professionals, she became a skilled board operator, producing shows for renowned personalities like Michael Baisden and Rickey Smiley.
Over the next decade, Dominique expanded her repertoire, becoming a radio personality and hosting music-driven TV shows. Her ambition drove her to explore various facets of entertainment, including club events and college parties. She even worked as a personality for Streetz 94.5 before fully committing to her music career.
Relocating to Los Angeles, Dominique conquered the prestigious high school tour as a singer, rapper, and entertainer. Her talents extended beyond music, as she delved into theater, film, and social media comedy. Notable achievements include co-hosting CBS’s music variety show “Trap City ATL” and garnering recognition for her acting and comedic timing.
Dominique Danielle’s story is one of relentless pursuit and adaptability. Her diverse skill set, coupled with unwavering morals, hard work, and resilience, continues to propel her forward in the entertainment industry. As she expands her horizons, there seems to be no limit to what this multi-faceted talent can achieve.