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Interview with Artist,Producer Dope Gawd

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Hi! How are you?

I’m Good.

Tell us about your background, what has gotten you to where you are today?

Mostly due to my musical background, growing up around music and making music since I was young is what molded me into the composer I have become today . alongside that i accredit my successes to my experiences and being able just to watch and see it takes work .

Where are you from?

I’m from the  east side of houston texas , Graduated c.e. king class of ‘11 , Sometimes referred as the beast side or “east up” , is stomping ground for artists that are on today , like kirko bangz lil jairmy and  queendom come .

 

When did you start music?

I started on the saxophone at my aunty school in 5th ward, and had to be in the 2nd grade  . I was very competitive so I wanted to be  the best and made sure they knew it . I always wanted to rap but from this I gained knowledge for the craft  .

How did you get into music?

Anybody can tell you it was just always in me , from just since birth , and stayed with me throughout my life . I remember for christmas during my 11th grade year , i got pro tools le 8 and haven’t  looked back since.

Who inspires you the most musically?

I’m inspired by various artists for different reasons. My love for music is not genre based, it’s just based on feeling . “How does the song make you Feel” . I may like some more than others but the question remains “How does it make you feel?” I place that same principle into my music .

But as far as the most definitely Kanye west and Daft Punk , their music transcends race and time

What do you want people to take away after listening to your music?

I want people to feel motivated to do something great , cuz the spark is all we need to build that fire to flame . i’m fine with being the spark r match to start somebody do r start they etc… My music just all around just makes you want to move .

Any new music coming out soon?

I just finished releasing my album , on 10/08 called “Dope Tales” , critics are calling it “Must Hear” . Which features appearances buy various artist that influenced my music along the way  The Album tells tales of life that anybody can relate to  

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E-Dee Releases Powerful New Single “Young Legend”

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E-Dee Releases Powerful New Single “Young Legend”

E-Dee: From Kingston Roots to Hollywood Dreams

Born in Jamaica and driven by an unshakable passion for music and storytelling, E-Dee, also known as Yung E-Dee, is a rising force in the global reggae scene. Blending authentic roots reggae with modern influences, E-Dee has carved out a unique lane that reflects both his Caribbean heritage and his journey through the entertainment world in the United States. Beyond music, he has also pursued acting and filmmaking, bringing a multidimensional creative vision to his artistry. His work consistently highlights themes of perseverance, cultural pride, and ambition, making him one of the most compelling voices among the new generation of reggae artists.

E-Dee Releases Powerful New Single “Young Legend”

Los Angeles, CA – May 26, 2026 – Rising reggae artist E-Dee (Yung E-Dee) has officially released his highly anticipated new single, “Young Legend,” now available on all major streaming platforms via Clarendon Records.

A heavy roots reggae track infused with authentic island energy, “Young Legend” tells the inspiring true story of E-Dee’s remarkable journey—from his humble beginnings in Jamaica to pursuing his dreams in Hollywood. The song captures the struggles, sacrifices, and determination required to overcome obstacles and transform vision into reality.

With its rich, soulful riddim and heartfelt storytelling, “Young Legend” delivers a powerful message of resilience, ambition, and cultural pride. E-Dee’s lyrical authenticity and commanding delivery make the track both deeply personal and universally relatable, resonating with listeners who appreciate conscious reggae music with a modern edge.

The single stands as a testament to E-Dee’s growth as an artist and his commitment to representing his roots while pushing boundaries in the global music landscape.

The official release date for “Young Legend” is Friday, May 29, 2026. The track is now available for streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, YouTube Music, and all major digital platforms.

With this release, E-Dee continues to solidify his place as a rising voice in reggae, inspiring a new generation to dream big, stay grounded, and embrace their journey.

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Jonathan Barfield: Turning Setbacks Into a Lasting Legacy

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Jonathan Barfield: Turning Setbacks Into a Lasting Legacy

Journalist: Can you share a moment in your basketball journey that truly shaped who you are as an athlete today?

I was cut from my high‑school team, which forced me to confront failure and rebuild. That summer I attended an unsigned‑seniors camp in Memphis (2008) and earned a partial scholarship to Lambuth University that same summer. Years later I played a season with Team London in the Euroleague (2020). Those setbacks and opportunities — plus the work ethic I developed — drove me to found Inspired Athletes, a skills‑development company built on relentless preparation and service to players.

Journalist: Every player has a signature mindset — what’s yours when stepping onto the court?

I stay calm and present. When the game gets chaotic I let missed shots and bad calls go immediately so I can focus on the next play. As a coach I bring a quiet confidence: we balance enjoyment with pushing limits, outwork and outthink opponents, and keep God first.

Journalist: What was the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your career so far, and how did you overcome it?

Finding consistent gym space early on was a major obstacle. I overcame it by building relationships with facility owners and partners — for example, St. Paul Christian Academy and West Nashville Church provided reliable access for years. That persistence required personal sacrifice (less family and social time) but ultimately created stability for my programs.

Journalist: Who has influenced your game the most, and what lessons did they teach you?

My grandmother, Ann Marie Jones (a Memphis educator for 35+ years), was my greatest influence. She emphasized education, character, and discipline; after she passed on May 30, 2023 I’ve continued to live by those principles. Her encouragement helped launch Inspired Athletes (founded October 5, 2022) and inspired me to major in Education in college.

Journalist:  How do you balance physical training, mental preparation, and personal life during the season?

I keep a strict schedule: up at 5:45 a.m. for long workouts (typically 3 hours), then handling business tasks — emails, calls and bookings. Coaching at the school level helps me stay grounded. I give myself Saturday evenings off to rest and prevent burnout, and I take holidays to spend time with family and friends.

Journalist: What part of your game are you focusing on improving right now, and why?

I’m expanding my coaching credentials and exposure: I accepted a role with Vanderbilt’s youth summer program with intent to join their staff full time. I’ve received multiple offers (25 total from different programs) and will decide this fall after summer evaluations. I’m focused on relationship building, learning from collegiate/overseas/NBA staff, and sharpening player development techniques to prepare athletes for scholarship opportunities. While also working with AAU and school  programs

Journalist: Fans see the wins, but not always the grind — what does a “day in the life” look like for you during peak training?

Typical training days start 5:45–8:30 a.m. (season and off‑season), with workouts 5–6 days per week depending on schedule. I’m in the gym nearly every day and assist an adult league on Thursdays. After training I handle administration — emails, bookings, coaching prep — and take Zoom courses (e.g., Get In The Game 101) to advance my coaching knowledge. Scheduling is often booked months in advance.

Journalist: Looking ahead, what legacy do you hope to leave on the sport and the next generation of players?

I want athletes to use sport as a pathway to education and character development. As assistant coach at Montgomery Bell Academy I’ve helped many players secure academic and athletic scholarships; I aim to scale that impact — coaching at the collegiate or NBA level, expanding Inspired Athletes internationally, and eventually owning a gym to serve underprivileged communities. Since founding Inspired Athletes I’ve trained over 650 athletes and aspire to grow into a CEO who creates opportunities beyond basketball.

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Ladaro “Monsta Yo” Pennix II: Turning Pain Into Power With “Let Me Go” Featuring Stevie Stone

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Ladaro “Monsta Yo” Pennix II: Turning Pain Into Power With “Let Me Go” Featuring Stevie Stone

Ladaro “Monsta Yo” Pennix II continues to prove why his name carries weight far beyond music. A man of purpose, vision, and relentless determination, Monsta Yo has built a legacy rooted in inspiration, leadership, and real-life transformation. From the streets to the stage, from motivational speaking to community activism, he has consistently used his voice to empower others while remaining authentic to his journey. Now, with the release of his latest single, “Let Me Go” featuring Stevie Stone, Monsta Yo is once again capturing attention and making major noise across the music world.

“Let Me Go” is more than just another song—it is an emotional and powerful reflection of pain, perseverance, struggle, and growth. The track delivers raw honesty wrapped in hard-hitting lyrics and passionate energy that listeners everywhere can relate to. Monsta Yo’s ability to connect real-life experiences with meaningful storytelling is exactly what separates him from many artists in today’s industry. Teaming up with Stevie Stone only amplified the intensity of the record, creating a collaboration that fans are calling unforgettable.

The buzz surrounding “Let Me Go” continues to grow rapidly. The song has been making waves not only on radio stations but also across streaming platforms and independent music charts. Fans have gravitated toward the authenticity behind the record, praising Monsta Yo for speaking directly to the struggles many people silently face. Whether it’s overcoming trauma, fighting through adversity, or refusing to give up despite life’s obstacles, the message behind the song resonates deeply with audiences from all walks of life.

What makes Monsta Yo truly unique is that his artistry is backed by purpose. He is not simply creating music for entertainment—he is creating music that heals, motivates, and inspires. As a published author, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and advocate for community change, Monsta Yo has spent years building a platform dedicated to uplifting others. His commitment to helping people break cycles of violence, incarceration, and hopelessness has earned him widespread respect both inside and outside the entertainment industry.

The momentum behind “Let Me Go” is also helping solidify Monsta Yo’s growing influence within hip-hop culture. Industry insiders are beginning to recognize that his movement is much deeper than music. Every project he releases carries a message, every performance carries emotion, and every word carries intention. Fans continue to support him because they see someone who has truly lived through hardship and turned pain into purpose.

As his name continues climbing charts and gaining recognition worldwide, Ladaro “Monsta Yo” Pennix II remains focused on one mission: using his gifts to inspire change and leave behind a lasting legacy. “Let Me Go” stands as another powerful chapter in that journey, a record that not only sounds impactful but feels impactful. With undeniable passion, authenticity, and vision, Monsta Yo is proving that his voice belongs among the strongest emerging forces in music today.

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