Billboard Top Hip-hop
Don Jones Is One Artist That Should Be On Your Playlists
The United Kingdom has yet again blessed the world with a musical sensation who goes by the name Don Jones. Don has a sound that is unlike any other in the industry. His style is compelling and draws in listeners with his futuristic nostalgic aesthetics. Music started for him at a young age. He knew that music was his calling and his place of refuge where he could totally be himself. 2006 was the pivotal year he made the bold decision of becoming a full time creative. At this point no one was aware of his music talent and this was his moment of realization, he had to step out of his comfort zone and make the masses aware of his music. He states “Taking that first step can be tough, but you just gotta go for it . . . and not worry about what others will think. You have to show them your vision.”
His enigmatic yet uplifting personality shines through in every single word and line he delivers, leaving you satisfied and wanting more at the same time. In 2018 he actually began releasing music. Don Jones joined the Always Active Media group in 2019, and in 2020 also became part of 3AM. These teams have become known for pushing the artistic boundaries of Hip-Hop and Pop culture, their authentic visual approach along with best-in-class marketing and management continues to set new standards in the ever developing creative and entertainment industries. By passionately creating music and art, Don Jones unlocks the drive for success in his many talented fans and followers. You’re not just listening to Don Jones, you’re experiencing this breathtaking upward ride alongside him.
Don Jones is set to surprise his fans with a new release at the end of the season. The project is titled “Sunset Season”. When hearing this project for the first time, the listener is initially greeted with Don Jones’ familiar vocal editing style and eclectic beat selection. However this project comes off as more polished and professional than past seasons. The tone of Sunset Season is one of re-birth and perseverance. With songs such as
Angel Time, that speaks directly towards the artist’s personal drive and work ethic. Each track carries its own aesthetic, which is to be visually displayed within the music video productions. He states “If there’s one thing I want my fans to take aways from listening to this project, it’s that I’ve been working non-stop to make sure the quality, delivery, and overall vibe of these songs are in alignment with my personal standards of integrity.” “I want to make sure the fans are getting the absolute best! Every time.”
This latest project, called Sunset Season. (Proceed of course, by Apollo and Libra season, which were really, transitional albums, lynch pins on which the whole saga turned, paving the way to pick up the wreckage of the emotional trauma expressed in the hurricane seasons and move to a fresh new, exciting seasons of musical growth and prosperity). This last album in the series is the close out, and after this, the theme of seasons is finished (at least for now), as he moves forward into a new saga. Don Jones’ unique authenticity makes him one of the game’s most exciting artists to watch. If you have not already, get familiar with his brand and be sure to add him to your playlist.
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.