Billboard Top Hip-hop
Osi Releases New EP Titled “Afgun”
Osi, an Afghan woman representing international women around the world, has made waves in the music industry with her talent and passion. As a visible minority, she has faced unique challenges in her journey to success. However, her determination and hard work have allowed her to pave the way for other like minded aspiring young female entrepreneurs.
With a Bachelor of Commerce (Hon) Degree, Osi’s education extends beyond music. She is well-versed in the fields of art and fashion, which has greatly influenced her creativity. She hopes to use her knowledge and experiences to inspire others in their entrepreneurial endeavors.
Hailing from Toronto, Ontario, Osi is a multitalented artist. She is a female rapper, lyricist, composer, singer, dancer, actor, and producer. Her versatility allows her to create music that resonates with a wide audience. Currently, she is working on her second mixtape titled ‘Afgun’.
‘Afgun’ is an EP that offers a glimpse into the world through Osi’s lens as a young woman in her twenties. It explores themes of love, heartbreak, addiction, and the struggles of being unable to be with the one she loves. The EP reflects her personal journey and the emotions she experienced during that time. Through her music, Osi aims to connect with listeners and convey the intensity of her feelings.
Despite facing challenges in the music industry, Osi has achieved notable success. She released her first mixtape titled ‘Self-Worth’ in 2019, which garnered positive attention. She has also opened for renowned artists such as Zoey Dollaz and RockaFella Freeway. In addition, she has been recognized for her songwriting skills and was nominated for ‘Songwriter of the Year’ at the Canadian Urban Television Hip hop Award Show in 2017.
Osi’s journey has taught her the importance of networking and building a strong brand. She has invested her own time and resources to establish herself as an independent artist. By collaborating with individuals in the hip-hop scene globally, she aims to expand her reach and become a respected professional in the entertainment industry.
With extensive knowledge in music production and recording, Osi works out of her own in-house studio and other studios in Toronto. She is well-connected within the industry, collaborating with a network of artists and producers. Osi takes a hands-on approach to her career, managing her online presence, creating her own website, and developing short-term and long-term plans for her music.
Beyond her own success, Osi believes in giving back to the community. She inspires other artists, fosters creativity, and promotes positive energy. She is a hardworking woman who is passionate, genuine, diplomatic, and empathetic.
Osi’s background, education, and dedication to her craft have positioned her as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Despite the challenges she has faced, she continues to make strides in her career and hopes to inspire and empower others along the way. With her talent and entrepreneurial spirit, Osi is well on her way to leaving a lasting impact on the international music scene.
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.