Billboard Top Hip-hop
Exclusive Interview With Alix Lone
Alix Lone is an up-and-coming rap artist. He wrote his first rap in 7th grade and has since been producing music that reflects his life experiences. Alix has been influenced by rap from an early age, listening to rap and hip-hop music from artists such as Andre 3000, Frank Ocean, and Drake. He has always had a deep appreciation for lyricism and storytelling in music, heavily influencing the style of his music. The inspiration that kept Alix moving was the idea that he could create music that would make people feel something. His musical talents and interests are displayed well on his new project “Heartache & Headaches” which includes two songs “200m” and “Section 8”. Let’s talk to him in person and get to know about his experiences and work.
What inspired you to write your latest single?
ALIX: So for 200m, it was my little brother. Actually, he’s a senior at Long Beach Wilson and a track star who holds the new state record in the 300mh. For song Section 8, it was just a song to remind me that I’m already successful no matter how low I feel. I want to remind my listeners that no matter how bad things get, you can still be successful if you take the necessary steps to make it. With 200m, it’s a bit more of a personal story for me because it speaks of my brother’s struggles and how he’s overcome them. It’s sort of like an ode to him and his accomplishments. Both songs are meant to be motivational in their own ways.
What was it like bringing your vision to life with this record?
ALIX: It was gratifying knowing I set out to do this specific stadium-sounding record and executed it on my first go-round. The horns make everything better, lol. I wanted it to sound like a group of athletes coming together and just getting prepared for the big show. This was my first time playing around with the horns, and I think it turned out really well. It was a lot of hard work between the producers, engineers, and myself, but seeing the end result was worth it. The process is a learning experience, and I can’t wait to keep pushing boundaries with my music.
Could you please share a glimpse of the creative process you endure while making a new record?
ALIX: Yeah, so I either get sent a pack of beats from a producer, or sometimes I go find them, but once I hear one I like, I brainstorm a melody. Once I have that, I put words to it. I usually come up with a hook first, and once I put words to it, I build the verse from that. I like to incorporate bits of storytelling and uplifting lyrics in my songs. After I’ve written the song, I take it into the studio to record it. Once I’m done recording, I take it to the mix engineer, who gives it that extra polish and fine-tunes everything.
What are you hoping your audience takes away from the music you’re making?
ALIX: I hope they can relate to me as I do them. I want them to know it’s still regular people out here, and I speak for them through catchy music and creative videos. I want them to get a sense of release for the 2 minutes while listening to my songs and know they’re enough. Do I have everything? No, but I do know I have enough of what I need. Hopefully, they take away the same thought and just know that it’s all part of the process, no matter how bad it may seem or look. If you keep pushing, everything will eventually work out. At the end of the day, it’s all about perspective & I just want to motivate people to stay positive and keep going.
What has been your personal favorite release of 2023 so far? Why?
ALIX: I would say 200m only because it’s inspired by my little brother as he finishes up his high school career, and he’s actually on the tail end of the song, so yeah. Section 8 was more of a personal thing for me, and 200m is more like something I wanted to do for him. Seeing it come together was great, and I was proud of the final product. It was awesome coming out with a song that’s so close to home for me, and I know it also has special meaning for him.
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.