J-Dubb Tha King Is Building His Next Chapter on Passion, Purpose and Real-Life Music

Atlanta Wire Staff on September 18, 2026

By: Mark Bailey

For J-Dubb Tha King, music has never simply been about making records. It is personal. It is emotional. And, perhaps most importantly, it is meant to connect.

“I represent the people,” J-Dubb says. “I’m a very eccentric, passionate artist. I put my real life and real feelings into my music, and it relates to the people and engages with them.”

That connection is becoming increasingly important as the independent artist enters what he describes as one of the most monumental periods of his career. With a growing team, expanding visibility, new music and bigger goals ahead, J-Dubb is positioning himself for a new level of recognition within the industry.

A Career Gaining Momentum

The road to this point didn’t happen overnight, but several recent developments have helped shift the trajectory of J-Dubb’s career. “This year has been very monumental in my career, starting with the representation of my publicist, Desirae L. Benson, who has been wonderful in positioning me on big stages like the various red carpet events I attended during the BET Awards weekend,” he says.

Those opportunities have also allowed him to expand his industry relationships and creative résumé. Among the highlights has been the opportunity to produce and perform with Yukmouth of the legendary hip-hop group The Luniz.

Now, with Ryan Katz handling booking and management, J-Dubb sees an even greater opportunity to build upon that momentum. “We’re taking my career to the next level,” he says. Turning Real Life Into Music.”

J-Dubb’s creative process doesn’t follow a strict formula. A beat can spark an idea. So can lyrics, a personal experience, or simply a feeling. “Literally all of the above,” he explains. “I can’t say that one comes before the other. It really just depends on the mood, the environment, and the motivation. They all go hand in hand.”

What remains consistent is his willingness to draw from his own experiences. “A lot of my music is based on real-life emotions and situations,” J-Dubb says. “I put it all together because it might help someone going through a similar situation.”

That philosophy also shapes what he wants listeners to take away from his current music. Whether someone needs encouragement, motivation, or a song that makes them think about someone special, the goal is to create an experience that leaves them feeling good.

For J-Dubb, that emotional connection is part of the purpose behind creating.

Determination, Drive and Passion

Talent may open doors in the music business, but longevity often requires something more. J-Dubb points to three things that have carried him through periods when his career wasn’t progressing as quickly as he wanted: determination, drive and passion.

“Music is embedded in my DNA,” he says. “And since it’s a form of therapy, passion always motivates and drives me. ”That perspective has helped him remain focused on the bigger picture rather than allowing temporary setbacks to define his journey.

And while he wants his artistry to be remembered, J-Dubb also wants audiences to understand the man behind the music. “I’m pure at heart,” he says. “I’m a very humble individual and very family-oriented. I try to enjoy every day like it’s my last, whether with my family or on stage.”

Creating Music That Outlives the Moment

As his career expands, J-Dubb already has a wish list of artists and producers he hopes to work with someday. Snoop Dogg, E-40, Musiq Soulchild, Lola Brooke and October London are among the artists on his list, while Battlecat, Timbaland and Swizz Beatz are producers he would welcome the opportunity to create alongside. But he isn’t interested in collaborations simply for the names attached to them. His vision is bigger.

“We would create timeless, generational music that our kids’ kids could still play forever,” he says. That focus on longevity aligns with how J-Dubb defines success. His fundamental vision hasn’t changed; what has changed is the infrastructure surrounding it.

“My vision for success remains the same,” he says. “Moving forward, I want to leverage my team to bring that vision to life on a much larger scale.”And he has already placed a major goal on the calendar: a charting single in 2027. Beyond the charts, he has his sights set on becoming a household name.

What Comes Next

For J-Dubb Tha King, the next chapter is already underway. “Just be on the lookout for great music,” he says. Alongside upcoming music, he has launched an official merchandise store, giving supporters another way to connect with the J-Dubb Tha King brand. His official website also serves as the central destination for his music, social platforms and exclusive releases.

But underneath the expanding brand, growing team, and ambitious career goals remains the same foundation that J-Dubb says has guided him all along: real experiences, real emotion, and a genuine connection with the people listening.

The stages may be getting bigger, but J-Dubb Tha King’s mission remains personal: make music people can feel, build something that lasts, and leave behind more than a moment.

Find out more about J-Dubb’s upcoming events and more by visiting his website. For media and publicity requests, contact Desirae L. Benson.

Devin Steel: You Can’t Tell the Story of Memphis Hip-Hop Without Him

Atlanta Wire Staff on September 17, 2026

By Lennard James

Every music city has people behind the scenes who help determine what the world eventually hears. They recognize talent before the spotlight arrives, understand audiences before trends become obvious and create platforms that allow artists to move from neighborhood recognition to broader success. When it comes to Memphis and its unmistakable contribution to hip-hop culture, Devin Steel belongs in that conversation.

Simply put, you cannot talk about Memphis hip-hop without talking about Devin Steel.

For more than 30 years, Steel has built a career in Urban and Hip-Hop radio as a DJ, on-air personality, programmer and executive. His journey has taken him from college radio to leadership positions at major stations, but Memphis remains an essential part of his professional story.

Steel spent nearly two decades at K97 (WHRK-FM) in Memphis, where he served in several significant capacities, including afternoon host, Program Director and eventually Senior Vice President of Programming for iHeartMedia’s Memphis cluster and Delta Region. Those years placed him at the intersection of radio, music, artists and the culture of a city whose influence on hip-hop would eventually reach around the world. Memphis has always had its own sound.

Long before the current generation of Memphis artists achieved national and international recognition, the city was developing a musical identity built around distinctive production, unapologetic storytelling, street culture, Southern rhythm and authenticity. Radio played an important role in connecting that music to audiences, and Steel became one of the professionals who helped make those connections.

His importance was never limited to sitting behind a microphone.

Programming a major urban radio station requires understanding far more than music. It requires knowing the audience, recognizing emerging trends, evaluating records, developing personalities and maintaining a station’s relationship with the community it serves. A successful programmer has to understand what listeners want today while developing an instinct for what they may want tomorrow.

Steel developed that instinct over decades.

As Memphis hip-hop grew, so did his reputation as someone who understood both the business and the culture. He became a familiar figure to artists, DJs, executives and aspiring entertainment professionals trying to understand how records moved from studios and clubs into radio rotation and larger markets.

His influence also came through mentorship.

The music business can appear glamorous from the outside, but behind every successful artist, DJ or personality are countless lessons about preparation, relationships, professionalism and consistency. Steel has earned respect for sharing his experience and helping emerging talent better understand those realities.

That willingness to develop people may ultimately be as important as any playlist he programmed.

A great programmer can help create a successful station. A great mentor can help create an entire generation of professionals.

Steel’s career has also demonstrated his ability to evolve.

Radio has undergone enormous transformation during his three decades in the industry. Traditional broadcasting has been challenged by streaming services, podcasts, social media, digital platforms and dramatic changes in how audiences discover music. The days when listeners depended exclusively on radio to hear a new record are gone.

Yet radio still possesses something algorithms cannot fully reproduce: a connection to the personality and culture of a city.

Steel understands that relationship.

For Memphis, radio has historically been more than entertainment. It has been a community gathering place. The voices coming through the speakers become familiar. DJs introduce records, promote events, recognize local accomplishments and provide artists with opportunities to connect directly with their hometown.

Steel spent years helping shape that experience.

His professional journey has now brought him to Atlanta, another city with an extraordinary hip-hop legacy. In 2026, Steel became Program Director of Hot 107.9 (WHTA), placing his decades of experience behind one of Atlanta’s prominent urban radio brands.

The move represents another chapter in a career built on understanding audiences, developing talent and recognizing the relationship between radio and culture.

Steel’s programming philosophy has emphasized listening to the audience rather than simply following industry assumptions. He has also spoken about the importance of personal relationships and face-to-face networking in a business increasingly dominated by emails, social media messages and digital communication.

That philosophy makes sense for someone whose career was developed during an era when relationships were essential currency in the entertainment industry.

Technology changes. Platforms change. Formats change.

Relationships still matter.

Steel’s career is evidence of that.

His journey from college radio to Memphis, from on-air personality to senior programming executive and now to leadership in Atlanta demonstrates both longevity and adaptability. Remaining relevant for more than three decades in an industry that constantly reinvents itself requires more than talent. It requires discipline, curiosity and the willingness to evolve.

But regardless of where his career takes him, Memphis remains an important chapter in the Devin Steel story, and Devin Steel remains an important chapter in the story of Memphis music.

The city’s modern hip-hop history is filled with artists, producers, DJs, executives, promoters, radio personalities and cultural tastemakers who collectively helped create a movement. Steel was positioned in the middle of that ecosystem during an important period of its development.

He heard the records.

He knew the artists.

He understood the audience.

And he helped provide a platform where music and community could meet.

Today, a younger generation of artists can release a song online and potentially reach millions of people almost immediately. But the infrastructure that helped establish Memphis as a nationally recognized hip-hop city was built over decades by people who believed in the city’s sound before the rest of the country fully understood its significance.

Devin Steel is one of those people.

His story represents more than radio. It represents longevity, relationships, mentorship and an understanding of culture that cannot be manufactured.

After more than 30 years in the industry, Steel continues to influence what audiences hear while helping develop the people responsible for what comes next.

You simply cannot mention Memphis hip-hop without mentioning Devin Steel. His fingerprints are on an important era of the city’s musical journey, and as his career continues in Atlanta, the influence of those Memphis years travels with him.

Ashley Puckett Refuses to Quit, and Maybe That’s the Whole Point

Atlanta Wire Staff on September 17, 2026

By: Cole Harrison

There is a particular species of mythology that the music business loves selling us: somebody picks up a guitar, writes three songs, gets discovered in a bar, signs a contract, and six months later is staring down from a billboard while everybody pretends destiny had the whole thing scheduled.

Ashley Puckett’s career is not that story.

Thank God.

Puckett comes from North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, outside Pittsburgh, which isn’t exactly the first place the average country-music executive circles while hunting for tomorrow’s Nashville sensation. But Puckett grew up with country music in her bloodstream while Pittsburgh’s broader musical culture surrounded her with everything else. She listened. She absorbed. And eventually she started singing.

There were vocal competitions, community events, open mics, bars and clubs, the unglamorous places where performers discover whether they actually want this life or merely like imagining it.

At 16, Puckett picked up a guitar and began writing.

Then life happened.

This is the part usually deleted from artist biographies because careers supposedly aren’t allowed to contain blank spaces. Puckett had years when she barely sang or wrote. Music wasn’t moving forward because sometimes nothing moves forward.

She has admitted regretting those years.

But music came back.

Or maybe she came back to music. The distinction hardly matters.

What matters is that when Puckett returned, she didn’t treat the whole thing like some nostalgic hobby. She went after it. Working with producer Bryan Cole and engineer Doug Kasper, along with a collection of accomplished musicians, she eventually made the record whose title now seems almost comically appropriate: Never Say Never.

Released in 2020, the album planted a flag.

“Medicine” gained national attention. Then came “Bulletproof,” a song Puckett would later identify as one of those moments when this ridiculous, improbable dream suddenly began resembling an actual career.

That’s the dirty secret about musicians: sometimes they need proof, too.

Fans imagine artists moving through the world fueled by unlimited self-confidence. Nonsense. Artists wake up wondering whether anybody cares. They stare at streaming numbers. They play rooms where somebody is talking through the quiet song. They wonder whether they’ve started too late or haven’t moved fast enough.

Puckett kept moving.

“What’s Her Name” followed. Then came “Tequila,” a self-written song that reached the Music Row Country Chart and demonstrated that Puckett wasn’t interested in being merely the voice at the microphone. She wanted ownership of the stories.

And then came “Anchor.”

Now we’re getting somewhere.

“Anchor” wasn’t merely another release. Puckett has described it as a turning point because she allowed genuine heartbreak into the writing instead of putting emotional bubble wrap around it.

That’s where songs become dangerous.

Not dangerous in the leather-pants, smashed-television, rock-star sense. Emotionally dangerous. The songwriter puts something real into the world and loses control over who gets to hear it, misunderstand it, love it, or recognize themselves inside it.

People responded to “Anchor.”

And Puckett learned the lesson every worthwhile songwriter eventually learns: listeners can smell emotional dishonesty faster than musicians think they can.

So she stopped sugarcoating.

Which brings us to “Stone Cold Broken Heart.”

Puckett entered 2026 apparently not expecting some massive creative eruption. She wasn’t planning another album. Then songs started arriving.

The forthcoming single began while she was driving a familiar winding road with too much on her mind. She passed a “10 Ton” marker she’d seen countless times and suddenly thought that ten tons were nothing compared with the weight inside her head.

Boom.

Song title.

“Stone Cold Broken Heart.”

That’s songwriting at its best, not twelve people in a conference room analyzing playlist metrics, but one human being driving down a road when language suddenly collides with experience.

Puckett says this new material feels different. More personal. More authentic. More her.

Good.

Because that’s where her entire career seems to have been heading.

From Never Say Never through “Bulletproof,” “Tequila,” and “Anchor,” the trajectory isn’t really about somebody gradually becoming famous. It’s about somebody gradually becoming less afraid of sounding like herself.

There’s a difference.

And Puckett isn’t pretending she’s finished.

She wants the Grand Ole Opry. She wants a Billboard hit. She wants a Grammy. She’s even talked about recording a duet she’s written with Joe Nichols.

Why shouldn’t she?

The music industry is populated by people constantly telling artists to be realistic right up until something unrealistic happens.

Ashley Puckett’s story is therefore less about arrival than refusal.

Refusal to accept the years away from music as the ending.

Refusal to believe geography determines who gets to make country records.

Refusal to let heartbreak remain something privately endured instead of creatively transformed.

And, increasingly, refusal to hide behind safer songs.

Maybe “Stone Cold Broken Heart” becomes another career milestone. Maybe it becomes the doorway to the album Puckett never expected to make. Nobody knows yet.

That’s the beautiful part.

The road remains unfinished.

Ashley Puckett is still driving it.

And this time, she’s paying attention to the signs.

Robert Ross Finds the Heart of Southern Romance on “For You Girl”

Atlanta Wire Staff on August 15, 2026

By: Caleb Perkins

There is something about Atlanta that makes a good country song sound a little different. Maybe it is because the city has never respected genre boundaries as much as the record bins would have you believe. Drive twenty minutes in almost any direction, and you can move from hip-hop bass rattling a storefront to Southern rock pouring from a pickup truck, gospel harmonies coming through an open church door, and country radio carrying a three-minute story about somebody who finally figured out what matters. Atlanta understands hybrids. More importantly, Atlanta understands songs with heart.

That makes Robert Ross’ “For You Girl” feel perfectly at home.

Ross isn’t trying to reinvent the romantic country song here. He is doing something harder: making one feel believable.

“For You Girl” works because it approaches love without irony, apology, or unnecessary decoration. In an era when plenty of modern country records sound engineered for fifteen-second clips and arena-sized catchphrases, Ross reaches toward an older Southern ideal, the singer standing behind the microphone with something he genuinely needs another person to hear.

The result is warm, direct, and refreshingly human.

From the opening moments, the production gives Ross enough room to inhabit the lyric. Nothing feels desperate to elbow its way into the foreground. The arrangement serves the vocal instead of competing with it, allowing the song’s central sentiment to become its hook. This is country music built less around spectacle than conviction.

That distinction matters.

Atlanta has always had an interesting relationship with country music. Georgia helped give the genre some of its most recognizable voices, yet the state’s musical identity stretches far beyond Nashville conventions. Southern rock, soul, R&B, gospel and blues are embedded deeply in the region’s musical DNA. “For You Girl” fits comfortably into that broader tradition because Ross sings with the understanding that emotion comes before category.

You can imagine this song playing on a Saturday-night drive up I-75, downtown Atlanta disappearing in the rearview mirror as the skyline gives way to Georgia darkness. It has that particular combination of polish and familiarity, a record that works on the radio but still feels like somebody might have written it sitting alone at a kitchen table.

Ross’ vocal is essential to that impression. He doesn’t oversell the sentiment. There is no theatrical pleading or vocal gymnastics designed to prove how deeply he feels. Instead, there is steadiness. His delivery sounds like the voice of somebody who has been around long enough to understand that devotion is rarely about grand gestures. It is about showing up.

That maturity separates “For You Girl” from the endless procession of country love songs built around pickup trucks, tequila and temporary attraction.

Ross is interested in commitment.

There is an old-school quality to that approach, though “For You Girl” never feels like cosplay. Ross isn’t dressing himself in vintage country clothes or attempting to recreate some mythical honky-tonk past. The recording is clean and contemporary. What feels traditional is its emotional architecture: melody, sincerity, storytelling and a singer willing to let vulnerability carry the record.

That approach should connect particularly well with Southern listeners because the song taps into something country, gospel and soul have always shared. A voice does not need to be perfect if the emotion behind it is convincing.

Ross understands that.

There are moments when “For You Girl” almost brushes against Southern soul, not necessarily because of the instrumentation but because of its attitude toward romance. Love here is not treated as disposable. The woman at the center of the song is not merely a character placed there to complete a rhyme. She feels like the reason the singer is singing.

That sounds obvious until you consider how many songs forget it.

The strongest thing about “For You Girl,” ultimately, is its lack of cynicism. Ross allows himself to mean what he says.

That might be the song’s quiet rebellion.

Country music currently exists in one of its broadest eras, absorbing pop, rock, hip-hop, Americana and indie influences while simultaneously seeing renewed interest in traditional sounds. Atlanta itself mirrors that musical collision every night. Somewhere around town, somebody is playing trap, somebody is playing bluegrass, somebody is playing blues, and somebody is sitting in a songwriter room trying to find the one line that makes strangers recognize their own lives.

Robert Ross belongs in that conversation because “For You Girl” understands what survives every shift in fashion.

A good melody survives.

A believable voice survives.

And a love song that actually sounds like love survives.

“For You Girl” doesn’t need fireworks to make its case. It just needs Ross, the song, and enough space for the feeling to land.

From Nashville to Atlanta and every Southern highway between them, that is still plenty.

Lil Baby Hosts Sixth Annual Back to School Fest, Serving 4,000 Atlanta Students

Atlanta Wire Staff 2 on July 30, 2026

Lil Baby and his nonprofit organization The Jones Project hosted the sixth annual Back to School Fest on Saturday, July 25, at West End Production Park. Over 4,000 Atlanta students received free school supplies, clothing, uniforms, haircuts, food, and gift cards at the day-long event in the West End neighborhood where the rapper grew up.

Key Takeaways

Lil Baby’s nonprofit The Jones Project hosted the sixth annual Back to School Fest on July 25, 2026, at West End Production Park, serving over 4,000 Atlanta students with free school supplies, clothing, uniforms, haircuts, food, and gift cards.
The Atlanta rapper has distributed 200 bicycles, 2,000 winter coats, established a $150,000 scholarship fund at his former high school, and covered college tuition for several students across his years of community giving.
Corporate and nonprofit partners including The Athlete’s Foot, Fanatics, NextEra Energy, and The Period Abundance Foundation supported the 2026 festival, which took place in the West End neighborhood where Lil Baby grew up.
Streetz 94.5’s FlexGangSlim hosted the event, which drew several Atlanta leaders including Fulton County Commissioner Khadijah Abdur-Rahman, Atlanta City Council Member Michael Bond, and Judge Penny Brown Reynolds.

The festival represents sustained philanthropic investment from one of Atlanta’s most successful recording artists. For six consecutive years, he has directed resources back into his hometown neighborhood. That consistency offers students a dependable bridge across one of the sharpest economic barriers families face at the start of each school year.

What Did Students Receive at the Festival?

Families picked up backpacks, notebooks, pens, new clothes, school uniforms, gift cards, and haircuts throughout the day. Games and giveaways ran continuously. Students grabbed what they needed while younger children played before classes resumed in the coming weeks.

The event took place at West End Production Park, a venue in the same neighborhood Lil Baby spent his childhood years in. Several Atlanta leaders attended, including Fulton County Commissioner Khadijah Abdur-Rahman, Atlanta City Council Member Michael Bond, and Judge Penny Brown Reynolds.

Corporate and nonprofit partners supported the operation: The Athlete’s Foot, Fanatics, Dr. Bombay, Dude Wipes, NextEra Energy, The Period Abundance Foundation, and West End Production all contributed resources. That partnership model allowed the nonprofit to scale distribution across thousands of students without charging admission or requiring registration.

How Does This Fit Into Lil Baby’s Broader Giving?

The Atlanta rapper has channeled earnings from his music career into direct community aid for years. In 2020, he donated proceeds from his single ‘The Bigger Picture’ to various charities. Last December, he organized a holiday toy giveaway. Earlier this year, he hosted a Mother’s Day pop-up where children created custom bouquets and cards for their moms.

children receiving gifts community event — Photo Credit: Unsplash.com

He partnered with Foot Locker to renovate basketball courts at Oakland City Park and cleared out an entire store location so local students could get new shoes. Across multiple campaigns, Lil Baby has given away 200 bicycles to neighborhood children, provided 2,000 winter coats to families, established a $150,000 scholarship fund at his former high school, and covered college tuition for several students.

‘Giving back to my city is everything,’ Lil Baby said in a statement. ‘You need the right tools to build your future. We’re keeping the next generation fresh, locked in, and motivated to learn.’

The direct aid avoids intermediaries. Students and families walked away with tangible goods on the same day rather than waiting for grants or vouchers to clear administrative channels.

Why Do Back-to-School Costs Create Such a Barrier?

School supplies, uniforms, shoes, and clothing represent a concentrated expense that hits families in late summer. Many households are managing vacation costs and preparing for fall budgets. The expense arrives on a fixed calendar, giving families little flexibility to spread purchases across months.

Events like Lil Baby’s festival remove that pressure by distributing essentials at no cost weeks before the first day of class. Students enter classrooms with the same materials as their peers, eliminating the stigma or distraction that comes from lacking basic supplies.

The festival also consolidates resources in one location for a few hours. That makes access easier for families juggling work schedules or transportation challenges. Parents don’t need to navigate multiple stores, compare prices, or track down specific items on school lists.

What Makes This Model Work Across Six Years?

The Jones Project has now hosted the festival annually since its first edition. That builds institutional knowledge and community trust. Families know when and where to show up. Corporate partners return year after year, streamlining sponsorship and donation logistics.

Streetz 94.5’s FlexGangSlim hosted the 2026 edition, adding local radio promotion and a recognizable voice to the day’s activities. That media partnership extends the event’s reach beyond the West End, drawing families from other parts of metro Atlanta.

Lil Baby’s continued presence in the music industry keeps the initiative visible. His latest single ‘Dead Fresh’ hit number one and climbed to the top hip-hop spot on its platform. The track pulled in more than 400 million TikTok views across 130,000 videos. Produced by Pharrell Williams, it premiered at the Louis Vuitton Spring-Summer 2027 Men’s Show. Its music video crossed two million views and ranked as the number one trending video on YouTube.

That commercial success generates revenue and attention the rapper redirects into local giving. It creates a feedback loop where national fame funds neighborhood infrastructure. Artists with similar reach could replicate the model in their own hometowns, provided they commit to the same multi-year consistency.

What Happens Next for Students and the Nonprofit?

The festival equipped 4,000 students for the start of the 2026-27 school year, but the broader economic challenges those families face remain. Rent, utilities, groceries, and healthcare costs continue throughout the year. A single distribution event cannot address systemic poverty.

The Jones Project’s track record suggests the organization will return next summer with a seventh edition, assuming funding and partnerships hold. Whether the nonprofit expands into year-round programming or launches additional initiatives in other Atlanta neighborhoods is not yet public.

Other Atlanta artists and entrepreneurs are watching. Lil Baby’s sustained investment in the West End shows how individual wealth can address localized need without waiting for government programs or large foundations to act. The model works because it’s simple: identify a concrete barrier, gather resources, and distribute them directly to the people who need them most.

FAQs

What Is the Jones Project?

The Jones Project is Lil Baby’s nonprofit organization that organizes community aid events in Atlanta. The organization has hosted the annual Back to School Fest for six consecutive years, along with other initiatives including holiday toy giveaways, Mother’s Day events, and scholarship programs.

Where Did the 2026 Back to School Fest Take Place?

The festival was held at West End Production Park in Atlanta’s West End neighborhood, the same area where Lil Baby spent his childhood. The location allows the event to serve families in the community where the rapper grew up.

How Many Students Has the Festival Served Over Its Six-year History?

The 2026 edition alone served over 4,000 students. The sources do not provide cumulative attendance figures across all six years, but the consistent annual format suggests tens of thousands of students have received support since the festival began.

What Other Charitable Work Has Lil Baby Done in Atlanta?

Beyond the Back to School Fest, Lil Baby has donated song proceeds to charity, renovated basketball courts at Oakland City Park, provided students with new shoes, distributed 200 bicycles and 2,000 winter coats, established a $150,000 scholarship fund, covered college tuition for several students, and hosted holiday and Mother’s Day events. He partnered with Foot Locker to clear out an entire store location for local students.

Will the Back to School Fest Return in 2027?

The sources do not confirm whether the festival will return next year. However, the event’s six-year track record and sustained community partnerships suggest The Jones Project is likely to host a seventh edition in summer 2027, assuming funding and corporate sponsorships continue.

How Can Families Access the Festival?

The sources do not specify registration or eligibility requirements for the 2026 event. The festival’s structure as a one-day distribution event suggests families showed up at West End Production Park during the scheduled hours, but details on advance sign-up or walk-in access are not public.

Singer Sterling Lights Up Atlanta While Championing Women’s Empowerment

Atlanta Wire Staff on April 22, 2026

By: Plugstar entertainment

Atlanta’s entertainment scene continues to thrive as a cultural hub for music, influence, and innovation, and this year, Singer Sterling added another defining moment to his growing career. Taking the stage at the prestigious Glitz and GirlPower Awards 2026 in Atlanta, the rising R&B star delivered a powerful performance in celebration of Women’s History Month, leaving a lasting impression on attendees and industry insiders alike.

Known for his dynamic vocals and undeniable stage presence, Singer Sterling used this moment not just to entertain, but to uplift. Performing in a room filled with influential women, creatives, and leaders, his set became more than music, it became a message. Rooted in love, respect, and empowerment, his performance aligned perfectly with the event’s mission to honor and celebrate women making an impact across industries.

Singer Sterling’s journey to this stage is one defined by dedication and versatility. Beginning his career at just 14 years old in the Gospel music world, he honed his craft singing background for legendary artists such as Yolanda Adams, Earnest Pugh, and Mary Mary. Those early experiences shaped his sound and instilled a deep sense of purpose that continues to guide his artistry today.

As he transitioned into R&B, Singer Sterling quickly began making waves, earning recognition for his music and expanding his reach far beyond his Gospel roots. His career has since evolved into a multifaceted journey that includes roles as a background singer, music road manager, solo artist, and reality TV personality. Each step has contributed to his growing influence in the entertainment industry.

His presence at the Glitz and GirlPower Awards also reflects his ability to move with ease among elite circles. From connecting with Megan Thee Stallion to traveling alongside Nick Cannon and celebrating with GloRilla, Singer Sterling has built relationships that continue to elevate his platform. Yet, despite these high-profile moments, he remains grounded in his mission.

“My goal is to use my voice to spread love and positivity,” he shares. “This moment in Atlanta, during Women’s Month, means everything because it’s about giving flowers to women who inspire and lead every day.”

Locally known as the “Turn Up King of Houston,” Singer Sterling brings a unique energy wherever he goes, but what truly sets him apart is his authenticity. His passion for music is matched by his commitment to faith, gratitude, and perseverance. He lives by the belief: “Never accept a no from anyone or anything and live your life for you,” a mindset that continues to fuel his rise.

Looking ahead, Singer Sterling has his sights set on global impact. With aspirations to collaborate with international artists, expand into more television opportunities, and take home multiple Grammy Awards, he is positioning himself as a force to be reckoned with in the years to come.

For those in attendance at the Glitz and GirlPower Awards, his performance was more than just a highlight; it was a reminder of music’s power to inspire, connect, and empower. And for those watching his journey unfold, it’s clear that Singer Sterling is not just building a career, he’s building a legacy rooted in purpose and passion.

As Atlanta continues to celebrate culture and excellence, moments like these prove that the future of R&B is in capable hands, and Singer Sterling is leading the charge.

DZOL’s ‘Go Out And Get It’ Rattles the System with Unfiltered Street Poetry and Relentless Hustle

Atlanta Wire Staff on April 24, 2025

By: James Brown

If hip-hop’s golden era had a heartbeat, it’d pulse through DZOL’s veins. The Baltimore-bred lyricist, once known as Pimp Dzol, has resurfaced with Go Out And Get It—a track that doesn’t just demand attention, it snatches it by the collar. Released in late 2023 under We Rollin’ Records, this gritty manifesto has clawed its way to No. 3 on the DJ Digital Chart, trading blows with titans like Drake and Cardi B. For those who still believe in hip-hop as a survival guide, DZOL’s latest is a hard-hitting statement drenched in sweat, asphalt, and the kind of raw ambition that made crews like N.W.A. and Mobb Deep sound like prophets.

Discovered in 2004 by We Rollin’ Records founder Sharon Ford while grinding at a Maryland manufacturing job, he spent years sharpening his blade in Atlanta’s studios with producers like Don Vito (Future, Ciara) and CSP’s Sam Peezy. His early tracks like—Turnt Up, Own That—packed enough bass to rattle strip club walls, but Go Out And Get It is different. This ain’t music for the champagne spray – it’s for the ones counting crumpled bills under flickering streetlights. DZOL’s baritone growl cuts through like a switchblade.

The track’s magic lies in its refusal to sugarcoat. DZOL’s lyrics paint Baltimore as both battlefield and birthright—it’s a chiaroscuro of innocence lost and codes learned. Producer Sam Peezy, whose résumé includes work with Beyoncé and Mariah Carey, wisely avoids trendy trap flourishes. Instead, he crafts a soundscape that feels excavated from a ’94 stash of DAT tapes, all dusty kicks and haunting keys. This is music that smells like cigarette smoke and ambition, where every snare hit echoes the slam of a project door.

Stream ‘Go Out And Get It’ – https://music.apple.com/us/album/go-out-and-get-it-single/1724720851

DZOL’s ‘Go Out And Get It’ Rattles the System with Unfiltered Street Poetry and Relentless Hustle

Photo Courtesy: DZOL

In a recent Dirty South Radio Q&A, DZOL name-dropped Tupac as his muse, and it shows. Like Tupac, he blurs the line between rapper and raconteur, turning street sagas into scripture. When he barks, “I ain’t bragging, just keeping it real,” it’s less a boast than a vow. Even his ad-libs carry the weight of a man who’s dodged more curveballs than a big-league slugger.

But let’s be clear: DZOL isn’t chasing ghosts. His flow—a freight train of freestyled grit—feels urgent, now. There’s no labored pen-and-pad here; his words spill like a confession, raw and unrehearsed. It’s a skill honed opening for legends like Ja Rule and Ashanti, where he learned to command crowds with nothing but a mic and a chip on his shoulder. At the Electric Factory in Philly, he turned skeptics into believers by sheer force of presence, a trick he credits to Ja Rule and his own Baltimore-bred brass.

The track’s success—1.6 million impressions and still counting isn’t just a win. It’s a middle finger to an industry obsessed with overnight virality. This isn’t algorithm-friendly fluff; it’s a slow burn, the kind of track that seeps into your bones after the third listen. Hip-hop today often feels watered down for mass appeal, but Go Out And Get It hits like a shot of moonshine—harsh, potent, and unapologetically real.

As DZOL preps an unreleased EP in collaboration with CSP Music Group and eyes Billboard’s summit, one thing’s certain – The man’s hunger hasn’t dimmed. Whether he’s recounting hard-drive crashes that nearly derailed him or vowing to “turn a pound to a mill,” his message stays rooted in the struggle. “Dreams come true with patience, perseverance, and faith,” he says, and you believe him. Hip-hop’s heart is still in the trenches, and DZOL’s here to show us it’s alive and well.

Follow DZOL and We Rollin’ Records for more information: https://www.instagram.com/wrrecords5

Published by Mark V.

Killa Hill Documentary Showcases Levitation and J Wils’ Sound

Atlanta Wire Staff on April 15, 2025

The upcoming documentary “Killa Hill” on Tubi TV will feature rising artists Levitation and J Wils, showcasing their track “Outside” while exploring Staten Island’s Park Hill neighborhood and its hip-hop legacy.

The Significance of “Killa Hill”

Directed by Gerald “Gee-Bee” Barclay, known for his work with Wu-Tang Clan, and executive produced by RZA, Raekwon, Herman Dawson, and Gano Grills, Killa Hill offers an in-depth look at Staten Island’s Park Hill neighborhood. The documentary highlights the cultural impact of the area, widely recognized as the birthplace of Wu-Tang Clan, while also featuring contemporary artists like Levitation and J Wils.

Their collaboration, Outside, has gained traction on Hartford’s Hot 93.7 FM, further amplifying their presence in the hip-hop scene. The inclusion of their music in Killa Hill marks a key moment in their careers, aligning them with a legacy of influential artists.

Park Hill’s Enduring Influence on Hip-Hop

Park Hill has long been a hub for creativity, fostering talents like Wu-Tang Clan in the 1990s. The documentary examines how the neighborhood’s cultural environment shaped one of hip-hop’s most iconic groups while continuing to inspire new generations.

Today, artists connected to Wu-Tang’s legacy, including the children of its members, are carving their own paths. Levitation and J Wils represent this evolving narrative, blending East Coast hip-hop traditions with fresh perspectives. Their upcoming performance at Flowery Fest alongside Chey (Method Man’s daughter) and Weather Park (Old Dirty Bastard’s son) underscores this cross-generational connection.

Levitation and J Wils: A Dynamic Collaboration

Hailing from Connecticut’s thriving hip-hop scene, Levitation and J Wils have gained recognition for their authentic sound. Their collaboration on Outside reflects a mix of personal storytelling and cultural resonance, qualities that align with Killa Hill’s themes.

J Wils brings decades of industry experience, having produced Fat Joe and Terror Squad’s platinum record My Kinda Girls in 2001. As the CEO of LaSmouve Records, he continues to shape emerging talent while expanding his own artistry. Levitation, known for his dynamic presence, complements this partnership, creating music that resonates with diverse audiences.

Their recent singles, Ride The Wave and Loving You, have further solidified their growing influence, supported by radio play across the East Coast.

Upcoming Appearances and Performances

Beyond Killa Hill, Levitation, and J Wils will attend the Season 2 premiere of MTV’s Family Legacy Series, which explores hip-hop dynasties, including Wu-Tang Clan. This appearance reinforces their connection to hip-hop’s heritage while positioning them as part of its future.

Additionally, their headlining performances on the All Stars Tour showcase their ability to engage audiences across multiple states, from New York to Washington, D.C. The tour provides a platform for regional artists to connect with fans and media, strengthening the Northeast’s hip-hop community.

How to Engage with Their Music

Fans can stream Killa Hill on Tubi TV starting April 15 and request Outside, Ride The Wave and Loving You on stations like Hot 93.7 FM (Hartford), Power 105.1 FM (New York), and The Beat 96.1 FM (Atlanta).

For updates on Flowery Fest, the All Stars Tour, and other appearances, follow Levitation and J Wils on their official platforms:

Levitation:
- Website– Hip Hop and R&B Music Blog – J Wils
- Instagram– iamlevitation_
- Youtube– IamLevitation – YouTube
- Spotify– LEVITATION | Spotify

Artists interested in joining the All Stars Tour can reach out to LaSmouve Records for booking details.

The inclusion of Levitation and J Wils in Killa Hill highlights their rising influence while honoring the enduring legacy of Staten Island’s Park Hill neighborhood. Their music bridges past and present, offering a fresh take on hip-hop’s evolving story.

Published by Jeremy S.

EnZo Gyseppe on the Rise: Independent Artist Sees Growing Interest for “Bussin”

Atlanta Wire Staff on March 31, 2025

By: Lennard James

In a music industry that often prioritizes major-label-backed artists, EnZo Gyseppe is demonstrating that independence is not a limitation—it can be a strength. With his latest single Bussin gaining growing momentum internationally, particularly in South Africa and beyond, EnZo is positioning himself as a rising force in the global music scene. His ability to blend raw lyricism, soulful melodies, and innovative production has earned him a steadily expanding fan base that spans continents, reinforcing the idea that authentic artistry has the potential to transcend borders.

A Movement, Not Just a Song

EnZo’s latest single is not just another release, it feels like the beginning of something larger. From the moment Bussin dropped, the song began picking up traction, resonating with listeners across diverse cultures and backgrounds. Fans in South Africa have especially embraced the track, with radio stations and DJs reportedly adding it to their rotations, and social media showing signs of excitement. The song’s themes of perseverance, ambition, and self-discovery have appealed to audiences who relate to EnZo’s journey as an independent artist forging his own path in a challenging industry.

Streaming numbers have increased significantly, and what started as a grassroots movement is now gaining traction on an international level. Music lovers in the UK, Nigeria, Ghana, and parts of Europe are also catching on, suggesting that EnZo’s reach may be expanding beyond U.S. borders. Bussin is more than a hit—it is a reflection of the potential of independent artistry and global connectivity.

The Power of Authenticity in Music

What sets EnZo apart from many artists in today’s industry is his commitment to authenticity. His music is not manufactured to fit a mold; it’s a reflection of his experiences, struggles, and victories. This realness is what makes his sound so compelling. Instead of relying on gimmicks or trends, EnZo focuses on delivering powerful storytelling, honest lyricism, and genre-defying sounds that highlight the essence of his journey.

Bussin is a prime example of this. It’s not just a catchy tune; it’s a declaration of ambition and resilience. It is the kind of track that can inspire listeners, making them feel like they, too, can break barriers and pursue their own version of success. In a world where music often feels disposable, EnZo is creating art that aims to resonate, leaving an impression on those who connect with his message.

Why South Africa? The Cultural Connection

The fact that Bussin is making waves in South Africa is noteworthy. The country has a rich and diverse music culture, known for embracing international artists who bring something fresh to the scene. South African fans have a deep appreciation for artists who pour their heart and soul into their craft, and EnZo’s raw, emotional approach to music appears to align well with that ethos.

Moreover, South Africa has been a hotspot for genre fusion, with artists blending hip-hop, R&B, Afrobeat, and house music to create something unique. EnZo’s ability to merge different sounds and cultures into his music makes him a natural fit for this audience. His willingness to step outside of his comfort zone and connect with listeners worldwide is what makes his growing visibility so exciting.

The Independent Artist Blueprint

EnZo Gyseppe on the Rise: Independent Artist Sees Growing Interest for “Bussin”

Photo: Unsplash.com

EnZo’s success is not just a personal victory, it’s a potential example for other independent artists looking to break into the industry without the backing of a major label. His journey suggests that with strategic planning, quality music, and an authentic connection with fans, an artist may be able to thrive on their own terms.

Unlike many industry newcomers who rely on label funding and promotional machines, EnZo has taken an entrepreneurial approach to his music career. He’s actively engaged in every aspect of his brand, from creative direction to marketing strategies. His ability to leverage social media, collaborate with international artists, and tap into global streaming audiences has given him a distinct advantage.

The success of Bussin in South Africa, the UK, and other markets highlights the importance of thinking beyond one’s home country. EnZo appears to understand that music is universal, and by embracing a global mindset, he is creating opportunities for a sustained presence in the industry.

What’s Next for EnZo Gyseppe?

With Bussin continuing to gain traction, the future looks promising for EnZo. He has already hinted at upcoming collaborations with international artists, which could help further expand his presence in Africa, Europe, and beyond. Live performances, strategic partnerships, and possibly a tour in South Africa and other key markets might be on the horizon.

More than just a musician, EnZo Gyseppe is emerging as an innovator, a storyteller, and a potential global force. His ability to reach new audiences with his music is a testament to his hard work, talent, and fearless approach to the industry. As he continues to rise, one thing is clear—this could be just the beginning of EnZo Gyseppe’s international journey.

Follow EnZo Gyseppe’s Journey

For fans eager to stay updated on his music and international progress, follow EnZo Gyseppe on social media:

Instagram: @enzogyseppe
Streaming Platforms: Available on Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, and more
Mixtape: Memphis Nights featuring Bussin – Listen Here

Bussin is more than just a hit—it’s a motivational anthem for those who believe in their dreams, no matter the obstacles. And as EnZo Gyseppe continues to explore new ground, the world just might be taking notice.

Published by Joseph T.

Demi Lowrell Sets the Stage for Stardom with Debut Single ‘Show Me Love’

Atlanta Wire Staff on February 10, 2025

By: Lennard James

The music world is abuzz with anticipation as rising R&B star Demi Lowrell announces the upcoming release of her debut single, “Show Me Love” featuring Prince DJae. Dropping on all major platforms in February 2025, the single will be accompanied by an electrifying music video that promises to captivate fans and establish Demi as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.

Hailing from the vibrant and soulful streets of Memphis, Tennessee, Demi Lowrell’s musical journey began at a young age. Her undeniable vocal talent quickly set her apart, earning her recognition within her community and planting the seeds for her future in music. With its rich musical history, Memphis served as the perfect backdrop for Demi’s early years, inspiring her sound and laying the foundation for her outstanding career.

Now, with the release of her debut single, Demi is ready to take her place on the global stage. Her passion, authenticity, and artistic vision shine through in “Show Me Love,” giving fans a glimpse of the raw talent that defines her artistry.

“Show Me Love” blends sultry tones with irresistible rhythms to create a track epitome of contemporary R&B. The song’s smooth melodies and heartfelt lyrics invite listeners to embrace authenticity and celebrate individuality. It’s a message of self-expression and empowerment, delivered through Demi’s soulful vocals and magnetic energy.

“Show Me Love” has been gaining traction on national radio, steadily climbing the charts and highlighting Demi’s growing presence in the music industry. With its relatable themes and hypnotic production, the track has struck a chord with audiences, offering a fresh yet nostalgic take on the R&B genre.

Demi’s rise to prominence is not just a story of musical talent; it’s a testament to her resilience and determination. After building her foundation in Memphis, Demi took a bold step. She relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, immersing herself in a thriving music scene that would allow her to grow and refine her craft.

Her journey from Memphis to Atlanta reflects her dedication to pursuing her dreams. Demi’s story inspires aspiring artists everywhere, proving that hard work, perseverance, and a genuine love for music can overcome any obstacle.

As the release date for “Show Me Love” approaches, the excitement surrounding Demi Lowrell is palpable. Her soulful voice, compelling storytelling, and magnetic stage presence have earned her a dedicated following. Industry insiders and fans are calling her one of the most promising artists to emerge in 2025.

Demi’s debut marks the beginning of a journey that will leave an indelible mark on the R&B landscape. With her passion, talent, and drive, she is set to join the ranks of artists who define her generation and inspire listeners worldwide.

Fans can follow Demi Lowrell’s journey and stay updated on her latest news by connecting with her on social media:

Instagram: @demilowrell
Twitter: Demi Lowrell (@demilowrell) • Instagram photos and videos
Facebook: Facebook

The wait is almost over! Get ready to experience the brilliance of Demi Lowrell’s debut single, “Show Me Love.” Through her soulful melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and empowering message, Demi is ready to light up the R&B world and capture hearts everywhere.

Join the countdown and prepare to witness the rise of a true star. With “Show Me Love,” Demi Lowrell takes her first step toward becoming a defining voice in the music industry. Don’t miss out—be part of the journey as Demi takes center stage and delivers music that resonates deeply and inspires endlessly.

Published by Drake M.