Business
In an Insider’s Look: Amro Shihadah Predicts Music Will Drive Blockchain Into the Future
The future of Non-Fungible Tokens or NFTs in this economic downturn is not one that we can see, with profile pictures and generative art. It will be one that we can hear. Since he first learned about the underlying technologies powering NFT blockchain technology, he always stated that Music will be the catalyst that proves to the world that it is much more than a niche or a bubble.
Music and NFTs will provide unprecedented ways for artists, fans and experiences to be revived. The days of waiting for your favorite record, CD, or concert are now at every fan and artist’s fingertips. This is greatly due to the adoption of blockchain technologies by artists in the Web 3.0 space.
To highlight he provided a few reasons that support to this claim:
- Music NFTs will be the contributing factor to connecting fans with their favorite artists both musical and album art (a thing of the past) while connecting musicians, artists and technology together in ways that never before existed.
- Protecting artists, in that gone are the days of 360 deals where artists would be exploited by labels to earn as much as possible while under the most favorable terms for the label. Smart contracts can eliminate that and present artists with an opportunity to not only own their masters but determine how they are distributed and how the revenues from the sales are shared with the fan base creating the most intimate experience for any fan around the world.
- The first use-case brings us outside of the Web 3.0 ecosystem. With solutions such as templatized smart contracts such as the Ethereum based ERC 721 and ERC 1155, artists can customize their distributions; by song, by album, by concert, by tour and allow their fans to not only buy their music in NFT and digital streaming format but also share in the success of that same art. This is something that has never been done before and truly exemplifies the core philosophical giving that define the ecosystem,
In short, for the first time it is now in the control of the musician, not the industry, with labels moving as slow as molasses. In doing so the community forward approach has shown how much passion is reciprocated by artists to their fans and not just in tours, autographs, and shoutouts. But in actually delivering a share of the revenue from the fan-supported art that is produced by each musician, across genres and socio-economic situations. Lowering the price, and barrier to entry, and bringing new experiential frameworks to a broken system.
The outlook is bright for Web 3.0 and as Spotify brings NFTs to beta in sales associated with artist stream this only further supports the case that music will bring adoption across industries with the saying holding true. Adapt or die.
Amro Shihadah is a Web 3, AI, Cloud, and Entrepreneurship Subject matter expert, and he does not hold any positions in music NFTs and provides this insight to expand the perspectives of those yet to explore the web 3 space.
He will encourage anyone who is interested to reach out to his socials:
Twitter (@ashihadah) for free education and 3x a week Web 3 News brought to you by the fastest growing community-driven news outlet Watcher Guru https://linktr.ee/ashihadah.
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.
Business
Christmas on Crenshaw! Free Toys for the kids in the community
Fast Food Chicken Chain “WestCoast Wingz N Sliderz” team up with Hip-Hop Artist Marc “Mayjah” Payne and Baldwin Hills Lawyer Chris Allen and Malcolm Jordan for a Secret Santa Toy Giveaway Extravaganza in South Central Los Angeles
Los Angeles, CA – December 2024** – This holiday season, South Central Los Angeles experienced an unforgettable gift of joy and community spirit, as a popular upcoming restaurant @wingznsliderz teamed up with the incomparable hip-hop artist Marc “Mayjah” Payne and Top 40 black local legal advocate “Baldwin Hills Lawyer” to host a Secret Santa Toy Giveaway Extravaganza for the children in the Crenshaw neighborhood. The event took place on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at the restaurant’s flagship location in the heart of South Central.
The giveaway of over 250 toys was created in order to bring a sense of holiday cheer and community unity to local families, especially those who are struggling during these challenging times. The experience was a heartwarming celebration of generosity. The event featured a surprise toy distribution for children, along with live entertainment, music, good vibes, great food, and special appearances by Marc “Mayjah” Payne and Baldwin Hills Lawyer, who were both on hand to distribute gifts and engage with the community.
WestCoast Wingz N Sliderz, known for its commitment to quality and community outreach did a remarkable job with Marc “Mayjah” Payne and Baldwin Hills Lawyer, a well-respected local attorney known for his dedication to improving the lives of South Central residents. Together, they used their platforms and influence to spread holiday cheer to children who might otherwise go without toys this Christmas.
“We wanted to create an event that embodies the true spirit of giving this holiday season,” said Chris Allen. “By teaming up with Marc ‘Mayjah’ Payne and West Coast Wingz & Sliderz, we are able to not only provide toys to children in need but also build stronger bonds within our community. This is about more than just gifts—it’s about coming together and making a positive impact.”
Marc “Mayjah” Payne, best known for his hit songs “Shh”, “Down for the Cause”, and “Temptations” ft G Eazy was in high spirit during the event. With his community-driven initiatives, he shared his excitement for the event, saying, “I’m honored to partner with such a strong community-focused restaurant and my brother, Baldwin Hills Lawyer, to make Christmas special for kids who deserve to feel the magic of the holiday. We all know how hard the holidays can be, and if we can bring a smile to even one child’s face, we’ve done our job.”
Malcolm Jordan, a staunch advocate for social justice and local empowerment, added, “This is the season of giving, and it’s important that we, as a community, support each other. I’m excited to be a part of this event and to help give back to the children of South Central, who are the future of this city.”
The event featured a variety of fun activities for kids, including holiday games, music, and special holiday-themed meals from the restaurant. The toy giveaway was fully stocked with a wide variety of toys, from educational games to action figures, dolls, and sports equipment, ensuring that every child left with a smile on their face.
The Secret Santa Toy Giveaway Extravaganza was open to children of all ages in the South Central Los Angeles area. Families are encouraged to attend next year and participate in the festivities as they celebrate the season of giving and unity.
For more information about the event, or to stay up to date for future events, please reach out.
West Coast Wingz N Sliderz
@wingznsliderz
(323) 403-2038
*About West Coast Wingz N Sliderz*
@WingzNsliderz is a black family-owned fast food chicken chain dedicated to providing quality food and outstanding customer service. With a strong focus on community outreach and local engagement, West Coast Wingz N Sliderz has become a staple in South Central Los Angeles, serving delicious meals and supporting local initiatives.
*About Marc “Mayjah” Payne*
Marc “Mayjah” Payne is an accomplished hip-hop artist/producer, philanthropist, and community advocate known for his positive influence in the entertainment industry and his dedication to giving back to the community. Follow him @mayjahpayne or www.mayjahpayne.com.
*About Baldwin Hills Lawyer*
@BaldwinHillsLawyer is a respected attorney and advocate for social justice, focusing on providing legal support and community empowerment in South Central Los Angeles. @AllenLawWins is committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of local residents.
Business
Free Thanksgiving Dinner on Crenshaw!
WestCoast Wingz & Sliderz collaborate with West Coast artist & producer “Mayjah Payne” for a Thanksgiving Holiday Food Drive in the heart of Los Angeles.
“Today was a good day” on Crenshaw boulevard, as a long line filled of all ages were given free thanksgiving dinner for the holiday season.
“We just wanted to give back to the community,” @MayjahPayne commented when asked why the event was put together.
On November 27, business owners from WestCoast Wingz & Sliderz organized an impromptu free dinner give away for the residents of the Crenshaw area. Promoted through social media and word of mouth, WestCoast Wingz & Sliderz brought together local business owners, entrepreneurs, artists, and volunteers to give out cooked meals to the community.
The event was held in the Crenshaw area “District 10” and brought together the residential community alongside family members from all walks of life. With 20 plus volunteers from all ethnicities it was a groundbreaking day for Crenshaw. People ate, talked, laughed, and walked away with free groceries! https://www.westcoastwingzandsliderz.com/
WestCoast Wingz & Sliderz is located in the Baldwin Hills Mall Food Court and the business is committed to the unity and empowerment of the residents in the community. Follow @wingznsliderz on instagram and visit https://www.