Billboard Top Hip-hop
TORONTO-BASED ALTERNATIVE RAP NEWCOMER DICHOTOMI IMAGINES A BETTER FUTURE ON INFECTIOUS NEW SINGLE ‘STF 17’
Introducing Toronto-based alternative rap newcomer dichotomi with their brand new single titled ‘STF 17’. The soulful and infectious lo-fi rap track comes just in time to take over our summer playlists, and is the lead single for dichotomi’s upcoming debut EP that is set for release later this year. ‘STF 17’ is the anticipated follow-up to last year’s fan-favourite ‘plush’, which was a massive radio hit with the likes of CBC Music in Toronto, and Wave Of The Bay in Florida, to mention a few.
Produced by fellow Toronto musician Frizzy Astro, ‘STF 17’ is a catchy melodic rap offering, which sees dichotomi – who wrote the song when they were sick during the pandemic and couldn’t be outside – in a very hopeful mood, as they imagine better times and fantasize about being able to enjoy summer time in Toronto once again. Over lush synth keys and sparse lo-fi instrumentation, dichotomi showcases their infectious flow, clever lyricism, and carefree energy, to great effect.
Speaking about the inspiration behind ‘STF 17’, dichotomi says, “It was the first pandemic winter, and I was really sick… I couldn’t go outside because the weather, and I had no energy or motivation to make life inside more enjoyable because of the mental and physical effects of the pandemic. At a real low point, I started fantasizing about summers in Toronto and told myself that ‘everything will be better in the summer’ – as soon as I said it aloud, I felt compelled to write a song on that theme.
The track quickly took a political lean as I began to ruminate on the social, political, and economic forces that forced me into such a fragile position in the first place. ‘STF 17’ is most definitely a critique of our capitalist society, but with the added goal of offering some levity — allowing us to hope for a more equitable future. Be critical, be angry, be sad, but don’t let the state of this world keep you from turning your face to the sun every chance you get, and tirelessly seek the tiniest moments of joy”.
Highly recommended if you like the sounds of Noname, Tierra Whack or Chance The Rapper, dichotomi is for listeners that like to discover new things every time you listen to a track – they are for fans of lyricism, authenticity and exploring new sounds. Born in Florida and now living in Toronto, dichotomi burst onto the scene in 2019 with resounding music, led by good vibes and wholesome themes that are intended to inspire hope and validate their listeners.
CONNECT WITH DICHOTOMI
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamdichotomi
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/iamdichotomi
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iamdichotomi
Billboard Top Hip-hop
“Pulling Strings from the Bing” Ignites Buzz on YouTube With a Gripping Story,…and an Even More Powerful Reality
Independent filmmaking continues to prove that powerful stories don’t need Hollywood budgets to make a lasting impact. One of the latest projects generating excitement on YouTube is Pulling Strings from the Bing, a suspense-filled short film directed by Moe McCoy and Ladaro “Monsta Yo” Pennix II. With its compelling storyline, authentic performances, and emotional depth, the film is quickly capturing the attention of audiences who appreciate meaningful urban cinema.
Presented by Scrilla Guerillaz West in association with Hood Fades, Hood Smoker Podcast, and Fireproof A.I. TV & Films, Pulling Strings from the Bing is far more than a traditional crime drama. It is a powerful story about loyalty, ambition, betrayal, redemption, and the pursuit of a legacy that can outlive a lifetime.
At the heart of the film is Monsta Yo God, one of America’s most feared and respected street kingpins. Although serving a life sentence behind prison walls, his influence stretches far beyond the prison gates, with major decisions still flowing through him. His name commands respect from allies and fear from enemies, making him a force whose presence is felt even from behind bars.
But years of reflection begin to change his perspective.
Monsta Yo God realizes that real power isn’t measured by fear or financial success, but by the positive impact a person leaves behind. Determined to transform his empire into legitimate opportunities for future generations, he sets out on a mission to build something greater than himself.
Not everyone shares that vision.
As his plans begin to unfold, buried secrets surface, loyalties are questioned, greed takes hold, and betrayal emerges from within the very circle he once trusted. Every conversation carries weight, every alliance is tested, and every move could be someone’s last. The suspense builds with every scene, keeping viewers guessing until the very end. Adding even greater emotional impact is a powerful soundtrack featuring music from legendary West Coast recording artist Monsta Yo, whose independent career has inspired countless artists while helping redefine what can be accomplished outside the major-label system.
His music becomes the heartbeat of the film, adding intensity, emotion, and authenticity to every pivotal moment. Yet what truly makes Pulling Strings from the Bing extraordinary isn’t just the story on screen, it’s the remarkable story behind its creation.
In a powerful reflection of the film itself, co-director Ladaro “Monsta Yo” Pennix II filmed and helped create this project while still serving his prison sentence. Refusing to allow incarceration to define his future, Monsta Yo has continued building businesses, writing books, producing music, directing films, and collaborating with talented creatives on the outside to bring his vision to life.
That reality gives Pulling Strings from the Bing a level of authenticity that cannot be replicated. It stands as living proof that purpose has no prison walls, creativity cannot be incarcerated, and determination can overcome even the most difficult circumstances.
The partnership between Moe McCoy and Ladaro “Monsta Yo” Pennix II demonstrates the extraordinary possibilities that emerge when talent, vision, and perseverance come together. Together, they have created a film that not only entertains but inspires showcasing the strength of independent filmmaking and the limitless power of refusing to give up on a dream.As the buzz surrounding Pulling Strings from the Bing continues to grow across YouTube and social media, the film is rapidly becoming a must-watch for fans of suspense, independent cinema, and authentic urban storytelling. Rather than giving away its biggest surprises, it invites audiences to experience every twist, every betrayal, and every unforgettable moment for themselves.
Sometimes the greatest story isn’t the one unfolding on the screen, it’s the true story of the people who refused to let their circumstances stop them from creating it.
From novels to movies to music, Jimmy Dasaint has built a career defined by one word—hustle. And this year, the Philly native is proving once again why he’s considered one of the city’s most influential creative voices.
His latest novel, BLACK SCARFACE 5: Fear is Stronger Than Love, is the explosive conclusion to his award-winning series. Co-written with former L.A. drug kingpin Freeway Rick Ross, the book dives deep into themes of survival, loyalty, and betrayal—all told through the gritty lens of Philadelphia’s streets. Fans have responded with overwhelming support, driving the book to ️️️ Star5️ reviews on Amazon.
But Jimmy’s storytelling doesn’t stop on the page. On September 20th, streaming service Tubi will release his newest feature film, THE WRONG BITCH. With a cast of rising stars—Tera Alford, JaQuai Felton, and Mavia Barnes—the film becomes Jimmy’s 13th feature, a testament to his consistency and dedication to bringing authentic urban stories to the screen.
And then there’s the music. Earlier this summer, Jimmy dropped STILL A HUSTLER, an album that has caught the attention of The Source, AllHipHop, and Floss Magazine. It’s raw, powerful, and reflective of the same resilience that has carried Jimmy through every stage of his career.
Through it all, Jimmy remains true to his motto: “Bringing Hollywood to Philly.” With each project, he shines a spotlight on his city while inspiring the next generation of creators to believe that success doesn’t have to come from leaving home—it can be built right here in Philadelphia.
Follow Jimmy Dasaint’s journey:
Website: www.dasaintentertainment.com
Instagram: @jimmydasaint1
Music: Streaming on all major platforms
American Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer, and Audio Engineer James Artissen also formerly known as James Worthy has long considered the name to be central to his life, and identity. It represents the dedication, and the passion towards his craft. Coming from New York, the musician attributes his hometown as a major influence on his style, and sound. Born James Allen Worthy on March 28, 1992 in Queens, New York, James began pursuing music at the age of 16. During that time period James had the opportunity to meet the late great Michael Jackson at Webster Hall in New York City which inspired James to fully pursue a career in the music business.
After moving to Atlanta, GA the singer, songwriter, and producers first musical experience was at his high school recording studio through a music mentoring program sponsored by Dallas Austin. His initial foray into music consisted of learning the art of songwriting which later turned into music production shortly after. Artissen was also highly influenced by artists such as: A Tribe Called Quest, Whodini, Kanye West, Miguel, The Weeknd, and Pharrell Williams. While studying those artists he began to teach himself how to sing in 2009. To further his education, he attended The Art Institute of Atlanta where he received a bachelor’s degree in audio production. This helped him begin working, and placing his work with mainstream acts, and songwriters.
Ty Dolla $ign
Tory Lanez
6LACK
PartyNextDoor
Khalid
The Weeknd
Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/
https://www.twitter.com/
https://www.facebook.com/
https://www.tiktok.com/@
Streaming:
https://www.youtube.com/@
https://www.soundcloud.com/
https://open.spotify.com/
Don Che Is Turning Independent Ambition Into an International Movement
Daisy Close Uses Music to Inspire Healing, Self-Worth, and Honest Conversations
Leading Through Innovation: Xavier Aponte’s Mission to Educate the World About Cryptocurrency and the Digital Economy
NALA, 23-YEAR-OLD MILLIONAIRE WHO LIVES BY PASSION
NOMADS are changing the landscape of the music business
