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Billboard Top Hip-hop

Virginia Native Tay Kelley drops gems in the industry adding value to his community

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Tay Kelley

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

instagram.com/iamtaykelley

Youtube.com/iamtaykelley

Taykelleylive.com

 

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Billboard Top Hip-hop

The Music Industry’s Hidden Gem: James Artissen

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James Artissen

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. 

 
In 2017, James transitioned from music production to artistry and began recording himself. He joined a duo group named Kings X2, and released their debut single “Wine For Me” in september of 2017. The single peaked at #10 on the US Billboard Hot Single Sales Chart for 5 weeks. Later in 2018 the group disbanded, and James released his debut solo single “Move” which features the rap group Whodini. Following up to 2019 James released his anticipated EP “Blu Leisure” which became critically acclaimed upon its release.
The project included guest appearances from: Tony Terry, Sonna Rele, Kalenna Harper, and Whodini. After its great success he released his sophomore EP “Kaleidoscopes”, and in 2023 he joined forces with rapper Big Gipp of the rap group Goodie Mob to release their collaborative EP “Gipp N Worthy”. The lead single “TOTW” peaked at #91 on the US Billboard R&B Digital Sales Chart also charting at the #1 position on the Amazon Best Sellers Chart. Within all of James’s work he has been nominated for several Grammy Awards by working with names such as: Meek Mill, Justin Bieber, Robin S., 112, Raphael Saadiq, and so many others to name. In 2024 James launched his own label imprint Humble Sound Record in conjunction with Sony Orchard. The label houses artists such as: B Angie B, Robin S., Tynisha Keli, Sophia Habib, Shaynah, and Truth Hurts.
Related Artists:

Ty Dolla $ign

Tory Lanez

6LACK

PartyNextDoor

Khalid

The Weeknd 

 

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/jamesartissen/

https://www.twitter.com/jamesartissen

https://www.facebook.com/jamesartissenmusic

https://www.tiktok.com/@jamesartissen

Streaming:

https://www.youtube.com/@jamesartissenmusic

https://www.soundcloud.com/jamesartissen

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1cP5EevOlhJqtyk75ZEvMO?si=hLxyQlduShqK_1H26n_qqQ

https://music.apple.com/us/artist/james-artissen/1820494478

https://jamesartissenmusic.bandcamp.com

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Billboard Top Hip-hop

Marc “Mayjah” Payne Elevates in the game with New Album Levels of Payne, Featuring Rap Icon Shorty T and Kung Fu Rasta Sifu Bosco

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Marc “Mayjah” Payne Elevates in the game with New Album Levels of Payne, Featuring Rap Icon Shorty T and Kung Fu Rasta Sifu Bosco

LOS ANGELES, CA – Rising hip-hop artist and social media influencer Marc “Mayjah” Payne unveils his latest studio album, Levels of Payne, a boundary-pushing musical journey that blends West Coast lyricism, Southern grit, and Caribbean soul. With high-profile features from New Orleans rap legend Shorty T and St. Lucia’s reggae ambassador Sifu Bosco, this project solidifies Mayjah Payne’s position as one of the most dynamic new voices in global hip-hop.

Hailing from the West Side of Los Angeles, Mayjah Payne built his reputation not only as a gifted lyricist but also as a multi-talented producer and storyteller. Known for using hip-hop as his artform to speak on life, struggle, and ambition, he’s no stranger to growth. Levels of Payne reflects that evolution—a matured, sharpened sound fused with international influence and raw authenticity.

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The album’s standout track, “Don’t Mean Nothin,” pairs Mayjah’s slick bars with Shorty T’s Southern bounce and storytelling, forming a gritty anthem about surviving through adversity and rising to the top. Meanwhile, “Ashes To Ashes, Dust to Dust” brings a melodic twist as Sifu Bosco’s reggae harmonies flow effortlessly with Mayjah’s laid-back delivery, celebrating heritage, unity, and peace through music.

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With Levels of Payne, Mayjah Payne continues to expand his creative legacy. His previous projects have earned airplay on over 72 radio stations and charted Top 40 on 34 of them, and this latest release is already generating buzz across streaming platforms. Known for his high-energy performances and verified Instagram reach, Mayjah is taking this project worldwide to connect with audiences from California to the Caribbean.

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Critics are already calling Levels of Payne his most complete and ambitious work to date. “This is for the art – this is for the culture,” says Payne. “It’s not just about where I’m from—it’s about where we’re all going. Music should bring people together. That’s what this album is all about.”

Levels of Payne is now available on Spotify, Apple Music, and TIDAL. For fans of authentic hip-hop with a global heartbeat, this album is a must-listen.

Follow Marc “Mayjah” Payne on Instagram and other social media platforms @MayjahPayne and visit www.mayjahpayne.com for interviews, bookings, and press inquiries.

Watch “The Streets Don’t Love You” from the project “Levels of Payne” here below on the @MayjahPayne instagram page.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIwPzkCpCYF/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

 

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https://youtube.com/shorts/4qYqCxgD4aw?si=fJSKbSiN4j3_kPci

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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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