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Rising Star: The Journey of Chaikey

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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/Youtube: @ichaikey

Facebook: Chai Key

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Billboard Top Hip-hop

Bianca Ciocca Unleashes Passion and Rhythm in Her New Single “BED”

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Bianca Ciocca Unleashes Passion and Rhythm in Her New Single "BED"

Bianca Ciocca is back with an electrifying new single, “BED,” released on Valentine’s Day in collaboration with Chiato Records. This track is a mesmerizing fusion of Afro drill and sultry vibes, delivering a hypnotic rhythm that pulses with raw emotion and bold energy.

With lyrics like “Te busco y siempre estás, ya no hay marcha atrás” (I look for you and you are always there; there is no turning back), Bianca captures the essence of irresistible attraction and deep connection. The song’s smooth yet powerful beat makes it the perfect late-night anthem—whether you’re cruising through city lights or lost in an intimate moment.

🔥 “BED” is now available on all streaming platforms! Don’t miss out—stream, share, and spread the love.

💖 Listen Here: https://song.link/pwrggtx83z6vx


Bianca Ciocca: A Sonic Nomad Pushing Boundaries

Italian-German powerhouse Bianca Ciocca is more than just a musician—she’s a visionary artist whose creativity spans across singing, composing, acting, dancing, and fashion design. Based in Berlin, her music is a reflection of her nomadic soul, seamlessly blending elements of Hip-Hop, Trap, Latin, Dancehall, and Drum & Bass.

Her dynamic stage presence—whether performing solo, with a band, or as a DJ—has captivated audiences across the globe. Currently on a worldwide tour, Bianca is also preparing to unveil her upcoming album, “Bubble of Screams,” a deeply personal project inspired by her first Berlin winter, where she faced darkness, ghosts, and transformation through music.

With performances spanning Mexico, the USA, Europe, Africa, and India, Bianca has made her mark internationally, collaborating with acclaimed artists such as Tribuman, Nash, Maxi Roots, Sick Boy Simon, and Toy Selectah.

Following the success of her last album, “Jungle Tropical Feeling,” Bianca continues to break barriers, using her music as a force of empowerment—representing women, human rights, and fearless self-expression through the Girrrlx Power collective.

💖 Stay Connected with Bianca Ciocca: https://linktr.ee/biancacioccamusic
💽 Discover More at Chiato Records: https://www.chiatorecords.com

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WeslyNorth: The Eclectic Artist’s Journey from The New Hippie Nation to “I Take It Back”

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WeslyNorth

WeslyNorth was born in Salisbury, MD on the 3rd of December in 1988 as William Hudgins Named after his father, who was an army vet and later became a local DJ. William was raised in the church, as his mother is a devout Jehovah Witness who sung in the choir regularly.

Born into a musically inclined household, WeslyNorth developed a love for the art at a young age. At the age of 18, WeslyNorth started a collective of artists and musicians in DC called The New Hippie Nation. The collective grew into something that still thrives in DC where most know him as Willy Wesly.

His creative process consists mainly of views that allow his writing to flow. Bright rooms with windows, pops of vibrant color and tea with honey help him focus on curating the songs he’s known for, but don’t box him in. His style is eclectic as he pulls from artist inspiration he’s heard his entire life. Growing up listening to music from Fred Hammond, OutKast, De La Soul, J Dilla, Slum Village and Nate Dogg. Artists like James Fauntleroy, Jon Bellion, beaux nox, aldae, Isaiah Huron, Dijon and Sunsetto are just a few of the many he aspires to today.

His new album is titled “I take it back. An apology to those he has not shown his best to. It is a hopeful reverse of bad karma for anything negative he’s done or said. He sees this album as a way to say, “If I’ve ever hurt you or hurt myself..I take it back, maybe I meant it in the moment but I take it all back now.”

The album is a mix of melodic soul pieces that feature stadium sounds and choir harmonies. It is a cinematic, feel good, road trip, morning mood type of vibe that we cannot wait to hear.

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Lillian Michel: A Beauty Industry Icon and Empowerment Advocate

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Lillian Michel: A Beauty Industry Icon and Empowerment Advocate

Lillian Michel, also known as Lili’s Touch, is a powerhouse in the beauty industry with over 25 years of experience. A licensed cosmetologist and award-winning professional, Lili has established herself as a leading expert in beauty and transformation. Her exceptional career spans across high-profile television productions, entrepreneurial ventures, and influential authorship, making her a true icon in the industry.

A Legacy in Beauty and Entertainment

Lili’s work has graced some of the most notable productions in entertainment. She has contributed her expertise to hit shows such as Love & Hip Hop Miami on VH1 and Rap Sh!t on HBO. Most recently, she has brought her exceptional talent to the upcoming film Deb is BOSS, further cementing her reputation as a sought-after beauty professional in the entertainment world. She hosts a podcast call Obsessed With Building , Where They share conversations to uplift and empower their views.

Beyond her work behind the scenes, Lili has also made waves by hosting her own hair shows. Her dynamic presence and expertise have inspired audiences and professionals alike, setting the stage for her latest endeavor: Next Top Hair Artist. This highly anticipated competition is designed to spotlight emerging beauty talents, providing them with a platform to showcase their skills and elevate their careers. Lili’s passion for uplifting others shines through in this initiative, as she continues to create opportunities for the next generation of beauty professionals.

Entrepreneurial Excellence: The Relaunch of Raw Hold and Beauty Hub Suites

Lili’s influence extends far beyond the entertainment industry. A true serial entrepreneur, she has successfully launched and relaunched businesses that cater to the evolving needs of beauty professionals. One of her most significant recent achievements is the relaunch of Raw Hold, her exclusive hair product line. Known for its high-quality formulations, Raw Hold is designed to enhance styling longevity and nourish hair, reflecting Lili’s commitment to excellence in beauty care.

In conjunction with this relaunch, Lili is set to open The Beauty Hub Suites in February 2025. This innovative space is dedicated to supporting independent beauty professionals, offering them state-of-the-art facilities and resources to grow their businesses. More than just a workspace, The Beauty Hub Suites is a creative and empowering environment where professionals can network, innovate, and elevate their careers. Through this venture, Lili is fostering a new era of entrepreneurship within the beauty industry, ensuring that aspiring professionals have the tools and support they need to succeed.

A Voice of Inspiration: Author and Mentor

Beyond her work in beauty and business, Lili is also a thought leader and motivational figure. As a published author, she has written two influential books: Framing Your Mind for Success and Marriage Without The Fairytale. Both works delve into themes of personal growth, empowerment, and the importance of mindset in overcoming challenges and achieving success.

Through her writing, Lili shares valuable insights on resilience, self-discovery, and personal development, offering guidance to individuals seeking transformation in both their personal and professional lives. Her ability to blend beauty with empowerment is what sets her apart, making her an influential mentor for those looking to find confidence and purpose.

Lili’s Touch: More Than Beauty, A Movement

Lilian Michel’s impact transcends the traditional boundaries of the beauty industry. Whether she is working on a film set, mentoring aspiring artists, launching a new business, or inspiring others through her writing, her mission remains the same: to uplift, empower, and transform lives. Her dedication to innovation, entrepreneurship, and mentorship continues to shape the industry, leaving an enduring legacy of excellence and inspiration.

For those looking to follow Lili’s journey and stay connected with her latest projects, products, and publications, be sure to follow her on Instagram @lilistouch. With every new venture, Lili reaffirms her commitment to making a lasting impact, proving that beauty is not just about appearance—it’s about confidence, growth, and empowerment.

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