Entertainment
LEx Lidia Has Released New Songs Titled “ALL ALONE” And “RIDE 4 ME”
Here at Leonard Magazine we had the amazing opportunity of interviewing Lex Lidia. LEx Lidia is a vocalist, songwriter and humanitarian. LEx has spent the past few years of his career experimenting with sound, genre, and collaboration to create his own style entirely. Now striving to create a more unified world through music, LEx utilizes his platform and voice to build community and connect people worldwide. Melting jazz, soul, hip-hop, and reggaetón influences throughout his sound, LEx doesn’t identify with a singular genre. Instead, he creates music that speaks to his soul and experiences as an individual.
1. Can you tell our readers about what really inspired you to write music?
I was always fond of writing stories and expressing ideas through art. Before beginning my journey in the world of music, I sought to invoke feelings and moods through visual art. Once I started producing music in high school, I began to listen to music from all areas around the world. I immersed myself in worlds of melodic motifs. I was hooked; what truly inspires me to write music is my passion for putting sounds together because it makes me happy, and I love seeing it bring people together.
2. When did you realize you were going to make music professionally?
The first time I involved myself in music was through a school choir. I was in eighth grade, and we were set to perform at Carnegie Hall with other schools. Our instructor thought it would be a great idea for us to sign up for solos. I had never done anything like that, so I was hesitant but gave it a shot. We submitted a performance, and surprisingly I was accepted to sing a solo at Carnegie Hall. I remember the butterflies fluttering around in my stomach as I walked onto the stage in my queue. As I took a deep breath and started singing, my nervousness washed away, and the shock of adrenaline pulsed through my body. I was where I was supposed to be, and I have never looked back ever since then. I realized then that music made me feel whole. It was the vessel that harnessed my soul.
3. Tell us what is so unique about you and your music?
I would say that what makes me unique is that I had a hard time finding out my identity as I grew up. Coming from a Mexican household in Southern California, I had several musical influences. I struggled to find a sound because it seemed that genres rotated like fashion for me in my youth every couple of months. I was in a punk band playing bass, and I was studying contemporary opera another day. I started producing and recording with talented hip-hop/rap producers and soon began programming Jazz ensembles and symphonies. I’ve ventured into creating music in my mother tongue, recording Reggaeton, and Spanish trap songs. Only recently did I find out that it’s ok to feel lost. People can push you around and say that what makes you unique is a weakness because there’s no “target audience” for someone who wants to relate to multiple genres. The only reason genres like jazz evolved to bluegrass, then to blues and rock ‘n roll was a thirst for expression to liberate people of their shackles set by society. Expression with no limits. A vast sonic world of infinite possibilities is the realm in which my mind lives. I make music that’s true to who I am and how I feel at the moment when I record it.
4. Can you tell us about your latest releases and what inspired you to create them?
My latest releases are two songs called ALL ALONE, and the other one is called RIDE 4 ME. ALL ALONE describes a story of the feeling that we all seek company from others, whether a loved one or a significant other. Growing up can be challenging and unpredictable. You don’t know what’s right or wrong; you just have to follow your heart. The song describes feelings of regret from self-sabotage in a relationship, which leads to repairing a broken heart. It features a sonic background that varies on the spectrum of hip-hop and vapor-wave.
The song RIDE 4 ME was written as a serenade to my loved one, explaining to her my concerns about growing together as young adults. The song delivers the question if love has the power to keep people together while pursuing their individual passions. In conclusion, you must first love yourself for intimacy with others. Seeking and demanding something from someone else will never give you the satisfaction you want. This song was performed on a hip-hop-style production with a solemn lead flute melody to set the scene.
5. Can you give us a brief insight into your upcoming projects?
I have recently shot three music videos with JR Visuals and moods BMP. My next release is ST4R GIRL, which will drop in late June. This new song is by far my favorite. We’ve taken the idea that a star girl is “the main significant other in your life that you would do anything for” and have distorted this idea into a sci-fi thriller music video. We’ve collaborated with Apple, and Makie Dawson, renowned Hollywood FX makeup artists, to bring to life the idea we conceptualized. They transformed our Star Girl, Effy, into a stunning inter-dimensional being. I really can’t wait for you guys to see this music video.
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.
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.
Entertainment
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.
E-Dee Releases Powerful New Single “Young Legend”
Jonathan Barfield: Turning Setbacks Into a Lasting Legacy
Ladaro “Monsta Yo” Pennix II: Turning Pain Into Power With “Let Me Go” Featuring Stevie Stone
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NOMADS are changing the landscape of the music business
