Angelo Vivo, a rising star from the San Francisco Bay Area, stands out as one of the most dedicated independent music artists on the rise. In an era where the music scene is often flooded with artists relying on superficial talents and quick routes to stardom, Vivo's genuine passion and relentless work ethic shine brightly. He is steadily carving his niche in the competitive world of Pop and R&B. The contemporary music industry often feels overcrowded, with numerous individuals trying to gain recognition by any means necessary. Many artists resort to deceptive tactics and impatience, hoping for instant fame. In this landscape, Angelo Vivo is a breath of fresh air. He fearlessly invests his time and effort, refusing to succumb to shortcuts. His determination and refusal to be complacent set him apart from the crowd. . His commitment to his craft and his willingness to explore unconventional paths are truly inspiring, making him a beacon of authenticity in an industry often clouded by superficiality and impatience. Supporting independent artists becomes a truly rewarding experience when you encounter someone like Angelo, who genuinely values his craft and invests in creating a memorable journey for his listeners. I took a listen to Angelo’s most recent project entitled “Wild” and fell in love with the vocals, theme, and overall production of the song. This track will take you out of your comfort zone and make you want to get up and dance like no one is watching. Not many things are free in this world but last I checked likes, comments, follows and shares still are ,so be sure to tap in with Angelo Vivo on socials or at www.angelovivo.com. Socials: Instagram/Twitter/Facebook Stream "Wild" today!

To truly make a mark in the world, authenticity and unapologetic self-expression are key. AB Liva and Spade-O's album release party for "Glory" exemplified this unapologetic authenticity to perfection. The evening, meant to celebrate the creative brilliance of these two individuals, was not just about them; it was about the people. What stood out the most was the absence of egos in the room, defying the stereotype that Philly lacks support. Instead, attendees engaged in genuine connections, networking, and discussions about collaborations, debunking the myth that Philly doesn't show love. There's a palpable energy in the Philly air, indicating that the city is on the brink of a cultural explosion, and it won't be a surprise when Philly takes the lead. This event wasn't about superficial appearances; it was about the hustle, the grind, and most importantly, the music. Spade-O set the tone by emphasizing that the night was about the music, the very essence of why they entered the industry in the first place. "Glory" takes its listeners on a musical odyssey, from anthems that make you wave your lighter in the air to tracks with beats so infectious they make your face scrunch up in sheer admiration of the bars and lyricism. Liva and Spade-O aren't just your favorite rappers; they're the favorites of your favorite rappers, true legends in the game. The album displays a seamless transition from track to track, revealing the meticulous effort invested in its creation. Much like a live performance, designed to elevate the crowd's energy and then bring it down only to skyrocket it again, this album achieves this rhythm effortlessly. It establishes a deep connection with the listener, encouraging them to appreciate the entire record from start to finish. In an industry dominated by instant, easily digestible content, stumbling upon a hidden gem, a carefully crafted masterpiece like "Glory," is like savoring a meticulously prepared gourmet meal in a world obsessed with fast food. Amidst the flood of 15-second highlights, finding true authenticity in music, as showcased in this album, is profoundly refreshing. Artists rooted in Philly have a unique advantage. The city provides all the necessary elements for success. Instead of seeking opportunities elsewhere, artists should focus on becoming the force that generates the wave. Are you the spark or the explosion? Unless your name starts with "atomic," explosions are typically short-lived. But the spark, that enduring essence, remains timeless, always relevant and always burning. It's not just a Philly phenomenon; people often underestimate their own cities. There's a misguided belief that artists must leave their hometowns to make it big. However, Philly, as the sixth-largest city in the world's most powerful country, holds significant clout. It's a city built on hustle, innovation, risk-taking, and trendsetting. Embracing the distinctive Philly style, speech, and mannerisms is what sets the city apart. Philly doesn't need to mimic trends; being true to itself has always been more than enough. Gratitude is owed to AB Liva and Spade-O, who are pioneers in the game, reshaping the city's focus and reminding everyone to embrace the genuine cadence of Philly. You can purchase and listen to Glory on all streaming platforms Follow: Ab Liva @realabliva Follow: Spade-O @darealspadeo Watch & Listen to: AB Liva x Spade-O x Lihtz-Danergous (Official Video) #HIPHOP

If Samoht graces your city, prepare yourself for an incredibly inspiring show. What could be a more exhilarating way to kick off a new album tour than a sold-out performance at a private loft in Philly? Massive kudos to Quincy (follow on IG @quincyartt), Q, the host, and everyone on Samoht's team for flawlessly executing such a brilliant vision. Independent artists, take heed. From both a business and artistic perspective, the intimate atmosphere this tour offers makes perfect sense. Samoht's music and performances are akin to an art installation, a one-man show conducting open-heart surgery on himself. While his music is undoubtedly for his fans, I believe it's equally, if not more so, created for himself. This intrinsic authenticity in his writing and performances is what will captivate you as new fans. In a world drowning in fraudulence and fake news, witnessing someone unapologetically true to themselves is a beautiful spectacle. The emotional rollercoaster Samoht takes his audience on during his live performances is extraordinary, with every element, visually and sonically, meticulously crafted and manipulated, akin to a conductor directing an orchestra. Attending a show at a loft, as opposed to a conventional venue or bar, sets an entirely different tone, fostering a unique vibe and camaraderie among attendees. Overhearing conversations of what brought strangers together in the elevator and being greeted at the door by a host rather than a bouncer immediately establishes an atmosphere of respect and sets the tone for a show that's unlike any other. This event feels like the most stylish house party you'll attend all year. You'll undoubtedly feel like one of the "cool kids," sharing the experience on your Instagram story while your friends lament missing out on something incredibly cool. Attending an event at an undisclosed location in your city, only revealed post-ticket purchase, imparts a sense of exclusivity. When I witnessed Samoht perform in Philly, the first stop of his OMEN tour, I felt like I was at an exclusive Grammy after-party, reserved only for close friends and family. It was remarkable to be surrounded by strangers yet feel like I was among friends. Supporting artists at this stage of their careers is vital as fans, and it's incredibly gratifying. When the mainstream finally recognizes what you've known all along, their victories feel like yours too. Sharing photos or tales of "I knew Samoht way back when he was..." is immensely satisfying. Samoht is an artist you want to champion early because these moments are rare. Don't take for granted the access you have to an artist at this stage. As Samoht's career propels forward, these opportunities may become less frequent and certainly less intimate. I had the opportunity to chat with another concert-goer and learn about what brought him there and what about Samoht's music inspired him. He shared a poignant story about how Samoht's music moved him to tears, even at work. He also recounted a time when he messaged Samoht on Instagram and, surprisingly, Samoht responded with words of encouragement. Moments like these are the building blocks for higher elevation. This theme resonated throughout the night as people shared their stories of reaching out to express gratitude, only to have Samoht respond with comfort and gratitude. While one can't expect an artist to respond to every DM, especially as Samoht's popularity grows, it's incredibly heartwarming as a fan to see an artist appreciate their fans' support with more than just a double-tap or a heart emoji. Samoht's social media presence comes across as genuine, and I had the opportunity to speak with him one-on-one after the show. We chatted more as a fan than as a journalist, offering me a different perspective to write from. These moments and the subsequent ripple effects build fan bases and create unwavering loyalty among current and future fans. My introduction to Samoht's music occurred on Instagram when I stumbled upon his cover of "Evergreen" by Yebba Smith. In less than 20 seconds, the raw authenticity of his delivery grabbed my attention, leaving me intrigued and eager to explore more. Since then, I've been an instant fan. Many can sing and showcase vocal acrobatics, but not everyone possesses the substance and power behind their words. What grants a person longevity in the music industry is enduring authenticity. Imagine someone reading aloud their diary or journal, baring all their insecurities and vulnerabilities in front of friends, family, and strangers. The inspiration and freedom Samoht masterfully infuses into his music and performances create powerful moments. During his live performances, I observed fans putting down their phones, choosing to be fully present in the moment rather than recording, a testament to the magic he creates. Samoht's live performances of "Don't Wait" and "Let it Go" were so incredibly moving that the only thing missing was an offering bucket. In fact, someone in the audience spontaneously shouted, "Pass around the offering plate," followed by a few amens. During his performance of "Don't Wait," an impromptu call-and-response developed among the audience, creating a beautiful connection with the lyrics. Samoht's improvisations at the end of the song craft a delicate balance of tension, evoking sympathy, sadness, and empowerment, all within six minutes. It's nothing short of breathtaking. In "Let it Go," another personal favorite, Samoht instructed the audience to release their insecurities, making the process seem as easy as opening one's hand. It was a profoundly powerful moment. Watching him deliver these songs live provided a newfound appreciation for his vocal runs, the tone of his lower register, and the depth of his lyrics. It's challenging to categorize Samoht's music into a specific genre or compare him to any other artist, and that's a wonderful thing. Having a sound so unique that people can only describe you in a sentence is rare. I'd describe his songs as "RAW TRUTH," or as one concert-goer aptly put it during the Q&A session, "ratchet gospel" (said with the utmost respect). His new EP, titled "OMEN," exudes an inspirational and redemptive quality, allowing listeners to lose themselves in the music and be vulnerable, allowing themselves to be rebuilt. For booking inquiries of Samoht or to see where Samoht's next tour stop is visit: https://www.samohtmusic.com/ Purchase OMEN and other projects by Samoht on itunes at: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/omen-ep/1437072700 Follow Samoht on Instagram: @samohtmusic

What's my take on Cain's performance? Well, picture this: you're in the midst of a Philly crowd, and suddenly, you hear a collective gasp followed by an audible "Oh SHIT!" when Cain drops his verse. Philly crowds can be a bit peculiar, sometimes even bordering on the bourgeoisie when it comes to music. Just ask Desiigner about his experience performing at a 76ers game. As a fan, you need to believe in yourself because if you wait for a room full of strangers to validate your presence on the dance floor, you might as well call your Uber now. So, the fact that Cain had the entire audience grooving to his beats was genuinely impressive. Being an independent artist, managing a fan base, selling merch, creating content, and holding down a 9-5 job is challenging enough. But when you're faced with an audience that's there solely for their friends and some bouncing, winning them over is no small feat. If you can get that type of crowd to vibe with you, my friend, you're doing something right—you're unique, you're special (cue DJ Khaled's voice). To get love from a audience Philly Step 1: Be authentic Step 2: Perform like you give zero fucks It's as simple as that. You must immerse yourself in your performance to the point that even the folks who've been scowling and nursing the same lukewarm drink against the wall start feeling out of place. When you achieve this, know that you're leveling up. For me, observing the audience's reactions and body language during a performance, gauging whether they're in their own world or willing to let an artist move them, provides a unique perspective to write from. The moment Cain took the mic, I could see that he had their undivided attention. It may sound cliché, but it's true: "You only get one chance to make a first impression." If you're serious about your craft, you always need to bring your "A" game. In business, your appearance accounts for 80% of your effectiveness, so imagine the impact as an entertainer. Ever looked at someone and thought, "Wow, they look famous"? As an entertainer, striking the right balance between standing out and not trying too hard is a challenging tightrope walk. For some, knowing what to wear is second nature, while others can throw on anything and make it work (though they too must recognize that their casual approach works for them). Then there are those who struggle with their identity and fashion choices, and it shows. That elusive "IT factor," drip, sauce, swag, or whatever the kids call it these days—Cain possesses all of it. He can draw in and captivate an audience, and what's equally remarkable is that it doesn't come across as cocky; he simply moves differently, allowing him to immerse himself in his own world on stage. I'm trying to wrap my head around who Cain reminds me of to give you a clearer picture of his artistry, but strangely, I can't. Yet, what's equally fantastic is that it doesn't even matter. When I saw Cain perform his unreleased track, "Best Friend," not only was the beat fire, but, more importantly, you could tell this guy is a lyricist. There was something about the song, with its witty lines and unexpected twists, that drew listeners in and kept the audience engaged and on the edge of their seats. When was the last time you attended a show where someone yelled "Oh Shit!" because they didn't see that plot twist coming in a song? That was my "Oh Shit" moment, because even if people weren't dancing the whole time or crowding the front of the stage, it showed that they were truly listening. And when both the ladies and gents start pulling out their phones mid-performance, you know it's a certified banger. So, if you're thinking, "I want to hear the song right now," the only way to do so is by following @cainkerner on Instagram and keeping an eye out for his next show or single drop. Show some support, love and follows. Cain Kerner: Follow @cainkerner (on all social media platforms) Listen: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/7HazY7Ej36exysLBP20B1f Also I would be remised if I didn’t shout out Joey Stix one of the nastiest drummers and artists in Philly who sent me the invite to this show. Across the tri-state area Joey actually curates tons of shows giving a platform for artists like Cain to get exposure to new audiences. Joey is also the frontman for Joey Stix Experiment, 1/3 of the Illfated Natives and is hands down one of the hardest working cats in Philly, curating shows all over Philly putting on nothing but dope acts for the people. www.joeystix.com

If you believe that #FREEMEEK is solely about getting a person out of jail for a violation of probation then you missed the bigger picture. If you reference the antiquated philosophy of “if you can’t do the time then don’t do the crime” to decry the outpouring of support for Meek Mills you are misguided. There is no question that the attention that Meek is having is due to the notoriety that comes with the territory but if his encounter with the justice system can cause even a little bit of change, a little bit of progress or even just shed greater light the injustice within the judicial system to promote change why be against that? Even if Meek serves the full 2 years his misfortune may be the catalyst that aids the next average Joe to not experience a gave mishandling or misfortune of the court system. Where is the harm in that? We the people are the checks and balance for our government. Yes we know that Philly schools need help, yes there are a million other things that can be protested and yes we hear you and seen all 30 posts and reposts on Facebook of your cousin still in jail for similar problems but lets be like Michael and look in the mirror for a moment. First of all did you even vote on November 7th? But seriously who is the school commissioner? Can you name 5 people in your government that is not the Mayor or Police commissioner? The issues that people bring up that are “more important” than the #FREEMEEK movement to solve and address them first start with your elected officials just to be clear. Try speaking poetically to a melody with a beat and touch millions of people around the world AND to the point that they will use their discretionary income to support your dream to continue to speak your voice. This is bigger than Meek Mills the same way Colin Kapernick taking a knee to protest police brutality becoming a movement larger than the issue in which it was originally grounded in. When ever I debate I never look to change a persons mind I look for them to understand my perspective. Once a person can truly understands another persons point of view regardless if you have your own progress can be made. Being a spectator and telling someone on stage to go left remember even if they listened they would be going in the wrong direction, you need to speak from their point of view…trolls kindly exit stage left. #freemeek #meekmillz #philly #blacklivesmatter #freemeek #free #meekmillz #49ers #colin #kapernick #Stageleft