Billboard Top Hip-hop
Rising Star: The Journey of Chaikey
Q. It’s an honor to speak with you today. Why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve always loved the arts and spent a lot of time reflecting, so I started off creating for myself. I was raised by my mother and family in a large, loving, and crazy Caribbean household. It’s challenging to find peace and privacy in that environment, so I’ve always looked for it everywhere I’ve gone and in everything I’ve done and created.
Growing up, I read, wrote, drew, painted – and of course listened to music and watched TV; these were and still are my outlets. Around my middle school years, people started telling me I should model. I didn’t think I could model, and even though I loved music and movies, I didn’t seriously consider or pursue a career in entertainment; I experienced some of my worst years of social anxiety and depression in my teens.
I dual enrolled in high school and graduated in 2017. I was still unsure what to pursue but I knew I wanted prove the negative voice in my head wrong. I did; I started modeling in fall 2018. I graduated from PBSC with my A.A. in Studio/Fine Art around that time. Over the years as I got into modeling, I continued painting and writing stories, poetry, and music, mainly for myself.
I got where I am today by creating from experience, being inspired by other artists, leaving my comfort zone, collaborating, networking, getting mentorship, and sharing creations – both mine and others’ – via social media and in person at local events.
Q. I’m sure your success has not come easily. What challenges have you had to overcome along the way?
Success hasn’t come easily and it’s still on its way to me, but the obstacles are lessons. Some of the challenges are juggling my hats, businesses, creations, mental health, and personal life/relationships while I’m healing and getting to know myself as an individual and a creative.
For years, I’ve had an unhealthy relationship with myself and others I’ve let into my life. I was smoking and getting into “situation-ships” by my teens. Most people haven’t known this side of me but it shaped a lot of my story.
Fall 2020-spring 2021, I started converting some of my poems and journals into music and scripts for my show/short film/ebook The Diary of An Anxious Black Girl. Throughout that same time period, I experienced an unexpected pregnancy and my grandfather’s passing.
Summer 2021, I recorded a song and performed for the first time. Before and after summer, I fell in and out of depression and slowed down on creating.
I went to therapy for a few months then stopped. Since the end of 2022, I’ve been working on being healthier.
Q. Let’s talk about the work you do. What do you specialize in and why should someone work with you over the competition?
I’m a Neo-soul artist and creative director. My creations follow a young black artist’s experiences – my experiences – with health, alter egos, and vices.
It’s about creating more than it’s about competition for me – though of course competition is a factor to consider in any industry or business.
Someone should work with me because I’m making a conscious effort to be my multifaceted, original, honest, and authentic self. I’ve made a lot of my life about creating this angelic image to make up for my insecurities and anxiety. Now I want my image and creations to be truer to me and what I’m living, not some wave, some trend, or what I think other people want.
Q. What’s your best piece of advice for readers who desire to find success in their life?
Put your health first – before relationships – not just romantic but also platonic. Put yourself before social media and your business; what you pour into you is what you get out of anything else.
Network, get mentors – especially in your industry – and use guidance to create/get to know your own standards and story before immediately just trying to live like your mentors. Be true to self, always. I’m working on all this myself; when I live by it, things flow best.
Q. Speaking of success, what does the word mean to you?
In my eyes, success means peace, happiness, and freedom in every part of my life. Success means getting up and being able to live, to exist knowing we have more than everything we need. It means thriving consistently; being alive beyond day-to-day survival. Success is being able to be.
Q. What’s next for you?
What’s next is creating my first EP, music videos, and short films, and curating events for their releases. My EP “Divine Intervention” will be about overcoming and living a happier, healthier life. I want to focus on having more fun with the process this time.
Q. Finally, how can people connect with you if they want to learn more?
People can connect with me and learn more via email, my website, or social media. Email is the best way to get in contact with me for any business-related questions.
Email: iamchaikey@gmail.com
Website: www.ichaikey.com
Instagram/Tiktok/Twitter/
Facebook: Chai Key
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.
VinChi Shakur, an official BMI member and major recording artist, has swiftly carved out a significant presence in the music industry within just two years of his release from prison. In this short span, he has impressively released one album, three EPs, 25 singles, and eight official music videos, demonstrating his prolific talent and unwavering dedication. His diverse portfolio includes movie sync licensing deals and substantial radio play on prominent stations such as Shade45, The Breakfast Club 105.1 & 102.1 LA, establishing him as a leading voice for Generation Z music.
As VinChi’s momentum builds, he has garnered attention through interviews with top digital radio stations and influential magazines. Notable features include appearances on @iHeartRadio, @TheRecBoys, @In_the_Den_with_Nala from @Power904, @The_Culture_Clvb, @RadioPushersTV, @HipHopSince_1987, @24Hiphop, and more. These interviews highlight his rising prominence and the broad recognition of his artistry.
Beyond his musical achievements, VinChi is the CEO of VSE VinChi Shakur Entertainment LLC and the host of “The VSE Live & Direct Music Review Show.” His multifaceted role in the industry underscores his commitment to hip-hop not only as an artist but also as a leader and influencer. Born in Jersey, VinChi initially gained recognition as an underground rapper, perfecting his energetic delivery and transforming his life stories into creative art forms. His dynamic performances have led him to open for notable artists like Rotimi from the hit show “Power” and perform at esteemed venues such as The Makinitmag Compound and SXSW.
VinChi has earned endorsements from respected figures in the hip-hop community, including DJ Envy from Hot 97.1 The Breakfast Club and Sheek Louch from L.O.X. (D-Block). His competitive spirit has shone through numerous victories in live review competitions hosted by PLAN-A-RADIO, MAKINITMAG, and TAYKELLEY LIVE. Recently, VinChi celebrated his first plaque award after reaching #20 on the Apple/iTunes Top 100 Hip-Hop Charts, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
VinChi Shakur exemplifies the resilience and passion of a true hip-hop artist, singer, and songwriter. He continues to push boundaries and inspire the next generation with his powerful music and unwavering drive, solidifying his place in the music industry.
In the ever-evolving world of hip-hop, few artists manage to capture the zeitgeist while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of the genre. Enter Young Miller Tha Don, the independent powerhouse who has been making waves since the release of his groundbreaking debut album, “Miller’s World.” With his unique sound and undeniable charisma, Young Miller is on a trajectory that promises to redefine the music landscape.
Fresh off the success of “Miller’s World,” Young Miller is diving headfirst into his next project, an album titled “Bet On Ya Self.” This upcoming release is more than just a collection of tracks; it’s a manifesto of self-belief and resilience. Set to drop in January 2025, the album is poised to inspire and motivate listeners across the globe.
The anticipation is already building for the first single from “Bet On Ya Self,” which is scheduled to hit the airwaves at the end of November. Produced by the legendary Harry and featuring the dynamic talents of Mike Notez, this track promises to be an instant hit. The synergy between these three artists is palpable, and their collaboration is expected to deliver a sound that’s both fresh and timeless.
Young Miller’s rise in the music industry is a testament to his talent and tenacity. As a top independent artist, he’s making significant strides, proving that you don’t need a major label to make a major impact. His work ethic and dedication to his craft have not gone unnoticed, earning him the endorsement of none other than Flavor Flav, the iconic hype man from Public Enemy. Flav’s co-sign is a powerful affirmation of Young Miller’s potential, with the legend himself predicting that Young Miller will soon take over the music game.
But beyond the accolades and the hype, Young Miller remains grounded in his mission to motivate and uplift. His music speaks to the dreamers, the hustlers, and anyone who’s ever been told that they can’t. With “Bet On Ya Self,” Young Miller is not just betting on his own success; he’s encouraging fans to believe in their own potential.
As we eagerly await the release of his new single and album, one thing is clear: Young Miller Tha Don is a force to be reckoned with. His journey is just beginning, and if his track record is any indication, the best is yet to come. So, keep your ears tuned and your spirits high, because Young Miller is about to take us all on an unforgettable ride.
Christmas on Crenshaw! Free Toys for the kids in the community
From Small Town Dreams to Entertainment Powerhouse: The Rise of Dominique Danielle
“VinChi Shakur: Rising Hip-Hop Star Making Waves”
NALA, 23-YEAR-OLD MILLIONAIRE WHO LIVES BY PASSION
Epilepsy Awareness Raised by Influencer Cruella Morgan
