Billboard Top Hip-hop
Virginia Native Tay Kelley drops gems in the industry adding value to his community
Journalist : Tell us a little about yourself?
Well I’m an artist first so music is and has always been my passion… for the most part I don’t go a day without creating a new chorus, Verse, or Concept that describes my life experiences. Pouring into My Craft has been a major part of my life and now I’m pouring into other artist careers as well since I have grown a large platform to do so. I’m really just a humble down to earth man who is for the people.
Journalist : How did you come up with your artist name?
Tay is Short for my first name which is Monte’ …. My Last Name is Kelley but not like R Kelly…. it’s an extra E On the end.
Journalist : How long have you been in the music industry?
10 years plus
Journalist : How did you get started in the music business in the first place?
Making Good Music that began to go Viral got the attention of a lot of executives. That’s when I made my first Powerful Relationships
Journalist : How would you describe your latest single?
It’s the 3 F’s For me: Fun, Fire, Fierce… lol
Journalist : When can fans expect the visuals for the single?
Probably Never… Some of the best Drake Songs never had a visual. Same thing in this case
Journalist : Who are your inspirations in the music industry?
Jay-z, Dame Dash, Kanye West, and Drake. There’s many more but i’d like to say those guys had the most impact off the top of my head.
Journalist : How do you go about writing a song and what is your process?
It Starts with the beat most of the time. I see Colors when I hear a beat… The beat usually tells me what I should give to it.
Journalist : What is the concept behind your forthcoming project if working on one?
Really just motivation and inspiring people who follow my movement to win… At this point it’s Win or Die For me because I hate losing.
Journalist : Any plans on touring to promote your latest single?
Maybe maybe not. I have my hands in So many things.I guess we’ll just have to see what God and the Fans want me to do.The universe has plans for me as well, you know? Let’s see where the art takes me.
Journalist : What are must haves when you’re in the studio working?
Hmm good question. But I’m really simple when it comes to that… A Great Engineer is and Ac is Really all I need… but having people in the studio that I respect musically is definitely a Plus!
Journalist : Will you be collaborating with any other artists in the future?
Only time will tell, I work with who wants to work with me…. it’s gotta be dope though.
Journalist : What was the last album you listened to?
NT4 Dub Hostile Takeover
Journalist : Where can the fans follow your journey?
Fans Can Follow me at
Youtube.com/iamtaykelley
Taykelleylive.com
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.