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Category: Features

  • 2026 Grammy Awards: Urban Genres Steal the Spotlight

    2026 Grammy Awards: Urban Genres Steal the Spotlight

    The 68th Annual Grammy Awards delivered a powerhouse night for urban music, with rap and R&B categories showcasing innovation, raw lyricism, and soulful vibes. Amid a diverse field of nominees, artists like Kendrick Lamar, Kehlani, and Leon Thomas emerged as the evening’s urban MVPs, sweeping key honors and underscoring the genres’ enduring cultural pulse.

    Rap’s Royal Sweep: Kendrick Lamar Reigns Supreme

    Hip-hop’s throne was firmly claimed by Kendrick Lamar, who dominated the rap field with a staggering four wins, cementing GNX as a critical darling. The Compton visionary took home Best Rap Album for GNX, a genre-bending project blending introspective bars with experimental production. He also secured Best Rap Song for the gritty “tv off” featuring Lefty Gunplay, Best Melodic Rap Performance for the haunting “luther” alongside SZA, and contributed to Best Rap Performance on Clipse’s “Chains & Whips” (with Pusha T, Malice, and Pharrell Williams), a nostalgic yet fierce collaboration that nodded to rap’s golden era. Lamar’s haul highlighted his versatility, from melodic introspection to hard-hitting posse cuts, while nominees like Cardi B (“Outside”) and Doechii added fierce competition but couldn’t dethrone the king.

    In a broader nod to rap’s evolution, albums like Clipse’s Let God Sort Em Out and Tyler, the Creator’s CHROMAKOPIA contended for Album of the Year, signaling urban sounds’ mainstream crossover power.

    R&B’s Soulful Renaissance: Kehlani and Leon Thomas Shine

    R&B brought emotional depth and fresh voices to the forefront, with Bay Area songstress Kehlani leading the charge. She clinched Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Song for “Folded,” a vulnerable anthem co-written with Darius Dixson and others that captured heartbreak’s quiet storm. Leon Thomas, the multi-hyphenate producer-turned-solo star, matched her energy with dual victories: Best Traditional R&B Performance for the smooth “VIBES DON’T LIE” and Best R&B Album for MUTT.

    Durand Bernarr rounded out the R&B triumphs with Best Progressive R&B Album for BLOOM, an eclectic fusion of funk, electronica, and soul that celebrated the genre’s experimental edge.

    Latin Urban’s Global Beat: Bad Bunny’s Timely Victory

    Extending urban’s reach, Bad Bunny snagged Best Música Urbana Album for his fourth Grammy in the category, delivering a poignant acceptance speech on cultural representation amid global conversations on Latinx identity. This win reinforced reggaeton and Latin trap’s Grammy foothold, blending street anthems with polished artistry.

    Overall, urban genres claimed over a dozen wins across fields, with crossovers like SZA and Pharrell bridging rap and R&B. The night pulsed with performances—imagine Lamar’s meditative “luther” set against Kehlani’s raw “Folded” stage moment—proving these sounds aren’t just surviving; they’re reshaping music’s future. As the dust settles, 2026’s urban haul feels like a victory lap for authenticity in an AI-saturated era.

  • Bad Bunny To Headline Super Bowl Stage

    Bad Bunny To Headline Super Bowl Stage

    Seahawks-Patriots rematch ignites Bay Area fireworks, with Bad Bunny set to steal the show.

    Kickoff at 6:30 p.m. ET

    Fresh off a Grammy win for Debí Tirar Más Fotos—including Album of the Year—the Puerto Rican kingpin (Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio) storms the Apple Music Halftime Show. Teased as a “huge party” in his Ebro Darden sit-down, Bunny’s 13-minute set is estimated to start approximately 8:00–8:30 p.m.

    Tune in on CBS, Paramount+, or Univision for the gridiron grind, then let Bad Bunny’s beats reset the vibe. Seahawks for the revenge sequel, or Pats for poetic closure? One thing’s certain: By confetti’s fall, the Bay will buzz louder than a Bunny drop. ¡Que comience el espectáculo!

  • Ranking Top-7 Lines From Curren$y’s 8/30

    Ranking Top-7 Lines From Curren$y’s 8/30

    One time for the Aries. EASTSIDE!

    For a nigga signed to Cash Money I can not remember them days nor records and I feel like I been the biggest blood since Cash Money took over around 99-2000. 

    How does this nigga Curren$y have so much music out. JETLIFE!? Hell is that. Saw it on a couple jackets once in my life. Long story short: you can answer that for me. 

    While the bangers stick out it’s Curren$y airlines” schtick on this album that are hilarious and bring energy to the production.

    Here are seven of the best lines from Curren$y latest project. (Non-ranking)

    Rich Uncle Intro (song) #WHOLETHANG

    1. “Full-time job not to kill ’em, somebody else’ll get ’em

    I tried to help some niggas, but I’ma be selfish with it

    That’s more healthier, n***a, that’s self-care, my n***a

    Generational wealth”

    Song- Combination

    2. “Minimize the problems, maximize the money

    I hoped out my Impala, hit switches, makĐľ it sit funny

    Leanin’ to the side, stylĐľ wild drunk monkey
    Gorillas in the mist, and the YNs hungry

    They pull up and get some change and a whole lot more game from me”

    Song- Blog Air (feat. Wiz Khalifa)

    3. “I never conspired with liars, I had me a younger Mariah

    And she was just takin’ me higher, keepin’ my pocket and mind right

    She even told me keep it P, and she never wanted the limelight

    She told me she watchin’ TV, ’cause she know that’s where she’ll find Mike”

    Song- Kush Clouds (feat. Killer Miker)

    4. “It’s been parked up for a month, we can’t find the joints

    I’m finna fire up a joint as I score more points

    Stackin’ up these golden coins, Jet Life I’m enjoyin’

    Errybody can’t go, sucka niggas can’t join

    Song- Saratoga Races

    5. “You better go find a hustle. Rinse and repeat.”

    Song- Store Owners (feat. LES)

    6. Not talking to nobody just enjoying the feeling 

    I’m silent but I’m plotting on dividing a million 

    With my nigga on his 1’s[?] I think I know where to get it

    Song- Due Diligence

    7. “Ganja in a chalice, reclinin’ on fabrics

    Smokin’, anticipatin’ the next challenge

    They went with there’s, we got right back at ’em”

    Song- Vision Board

  • Target Electronics to Bring Back Midnight Releases with Exclusive Taylor Swift Physical Album at Midnight. Find out how to get your copy inside Monroe County – NY

    Target Electronics to Bring Back Midnight Releases with Exclusive Taylor Swift Physical Album at Midnight. Find out how to get your copy inside Monroe County – NY

    Taylor Swift’s 12th album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” drops on Friday, Oct. 3, around the world.

    Still have a CD player? How about a first listen of Taylor Swift new album with a physical copy of the project. 

    According to a press release from Target Corporate, select stores will open their doors at midnight on October 3 to give Swifties the chance to be some of the first to hold the physical copies of the album. And in Monroe County, the Henrietta Target is that store!

    Officials said fans will have the chance to shop four exclusive products: a pressing of “The Life of a Showgirl” on a limited edition vinyl, as well as three exclusive CDs with posters included.

    Now for the logistics: Physical or digital tickets will be distributed in the electronics section of the the Target stores Thursday starting at 10 p.m. Officials said that will reserve guests’ product for purchase. Once a guest has their ticket, they can continue shopping in the store and return to the designated queuing location at 11:45 p.m. to make their purchase at midnight.

    Due to high demand, there will be a purchase limit of four per item, per guest.

    Henrietta Target is located at 2325 Marketplace Dr, Rochester, NY 14623

    via. News 8 wroc

  • Hamilton Takes Rochester by Storm: A Revolutionary Fall Awaits West Herr Auditorium Theatre

    Hamilton Takes Rochester by Storm: A Revolutionary Fall Awaits West Herr Auditorium Theatre

    In the crisp embrace of a Finger Lakes autumn, where the leaves whisper secrets of rebellion and the Genesee River hums with untamed energy, Rochester is about to become the stage for history’s boldest remix. Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton: An American Musical—the Tony, Grammy, and Pulitzer Prize-winning juggernaut that fused hip-hop fire with Founding Fathers’ fury—returns triumphantly to the West Herr Auditorium Theatre from November 18 to 30, 2025. This isn’t just a tour stop; it’s a homecoming for a show that redefined Broadway, now electrifying the heart of upstate New York with its pulse-pounding score and razor-sharp storytelling.

    Miranda’s genius—equal parts Notorious B.I.G. swagger and Sondheim precision—transforms the Revolutionary War into a rhythm that gets under your skin, challenging you to rap along to the Constitution while questioning who gets to write the narrative of a nation.

    As the Angelica Company (the tour’s powerhouse ensemble) takes the stage, expect sold-out nights where local history buffs mingle with first-time theatergoers, all rising to their feet for that iconic “The Room Where It Happens.” Shows evening curtains at 7:00 p.m. and matinees at 1 p.m. on select days—prime for a weekend escape or a midweek revolution.

    Snag yours now via Ticketmaster or the official RBTL site, starting at around $78 (though premium seats command a Founding Father’s fortune). Whether you’re a “Helpless” romantic or a “Non-Stop” history hound, this is your shot. Don’t throw away your ticket—Rochester’s revolution starts November 18. Who lives, who dies, who tells your story? In the Flower City, it’ll be you.

  • OBK REACTS: EGO DEATH AT A BACHELORETTE PARTY

    OBK REACTS: EGO DEATH AT A BACHELORETTE PARTY

    Get the tambourines. 

    Hate to tell you if you are miserable no one will ever know. 

    “Okay voices” — OBK on Glum

    Let’s be honest, going into IAM wondering which is going to be the next R&B banger 🫵🏼 wish you knew about earlier. BUT why the autotune. 

    Haley Williams plays with multiple genres, Ego Death At A Bachelorette Party was no- different. 

    Even when she does not want to appear too poppy it’s the catchiness in the lyrics that you can spin your grandma around and she will ignore the explicit sign while continuing her two-step while you wait patiently for the song to end.

    Now if you wonder if she keeps the same outside energy on her solo records refer to any line on the album title track. Ask a black person to explain the line if you are uncertain language. 

    5 playlist adds from Me 2 🫵🏻

    1. Ice In My OJ
    2. Brotherly Hate
    3. Ego Death At A Bachelorette Party 
    4. Negative Self Talk
    5. Love Me Different 
  • Get Ready, Buffalo: T-Pain’s TP20 Tour Hits Outer Harbor Live on October 10!

    Get Ready, Buffalo: T-Pain’s TP20 Tour Hits Outer Harbor Live on October 10!

    Get Ready, Buffalo: T-Pain’s TP20 Tour Hits Outer Harbor Live on October 10!

    Buffalo’s music scene is about to get a massive dose of nostalgia and high-energy vibes as Grammy-winning artist T-Pain rolls into town for a can’t-miss performance at Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B. Mark your calendars for Friday, October 10, 2025—this stop on his TP20 Tour: Celebrating 20 Years of T-Pain promises to be an epic night of hits, auto-tune magic, and unbreakable party spirit. 

    For those who grew up blasting tracks like “Buy U a Drank (Shawty Snappin’)” or “Bartender,” T-Pain needs no introduction. The Florida-born rapper, singer, and producer revolutionized the game in the mid-2000s with his innovative use of auto-tune, turning it from a studio tool into a cultural phenomenon. Over two decades, he’s racked up collaborations with everyone from Kanye West and Lil Wayne to Taylor Swift and Flo Rida, earning two Grammys along the way for smashes like “Blame It” with Jamie Foxx and “Good Life” with Kanye. But T-Pain’s story isn’t just about the charts—it’s about resilience. After facing backlash for his signature sound, he stripped it away on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert in 2014, proving his raw vocal talent and sparking a career renaissance. Now, at 40, he’s hotter than ever, with viral TikToks, a Twitch streaming empire, and fresh music that bridges generations.

    The TP20 Tour is T-Pain’s way of saying thank you to fans who’ve stuck with him through the highs and lows. Announced earlier this year with a heartfelt video message, the tour highlights his evolution from club anthems to introspective bangers, complete with surprise guests and deep cuts.  Expect a setlist packed with classics like “I’m Sprung,” “Chopped ‘N’ Skrewed,” and “Can’t Believe It,” alongside newer gems from his 2023 album On Top of the Covers, where he reimagines hits by artists like Sam Cooke and Journey. And if his recent shows are any indication, T-Pain’s live energy is infectious—he’s known for crowd-surfing, impromptu freestyles, and turning venues into massive sing-alongs.

    Joining T-Pain on stage in Buffalo are rising stars EarthGang and Armani White, adding layers of hip-hop flair and fresh sounds to the lineup.  EarthGang, the Atlanta duo signed to J. Cole’s Dreamville, brings their eclectic mix of soulful rhymes and psychedelic beats, while Armani White’s viral hit “Billie Eilish” promises to get the crowd hyped early.

    The venue couldn’t be more perfect for a fall night out. Outer Harbor Live at Terminal B, nestled along the shores of Lake Erie at 901 Fuhrmann Boulevard, is Buffalo’s go-to spot for outdoor concerts with stunning waterfront views.  Part of the Seneca Casinos Outer Harbor Live Concert Series, this amphitheater-style setup holds thousands and has hosted big names like Wallows this summer. 

    Gates open around 6:30 PM, with the show kicking off at 8 PM—plenty of time to grab drinks, snag merch, and soak in the sunset vibes.  Pro tip: Dress in layers for that crisp October air off the lake.

    Tickets are on sale now, starting at about $55, and they’re moving fast— Whether you’re a longtime fan reliving the glory days or a newcomer discovering his catalog, this concert is set to be a highlight of Buffalo’s 2025 music calendar.

    T-Pain’s ready to turn up; are you?

  • Freddie Gibbs Brings “Alfredo: The Tour North American Edition” to Life: A Celebration of Grit and Groove this Fall

    Freddie Gibbs Brings “Alfredo: The Tour North American Edition” to Life: A Celebration of Grit and Groove this Fall

    Hip-hop fans, mark your calendars—Freddie Gibbs, the relentless storyteller from the streets of Gary, Indiana, is hitting the road with “Alfredo: The Tour North American Edition.” 

    This fall trek celebrates the release of Alfredo 2, the highly anticipated sequel to his 2020 Grammy-nominated collaboration with producer The Alchemist. Kicking off in September and winding through major cities across the U.S. and Canada, the tour promises high-energy performances blending Gibbs’ razor-sharp lyricism with The Alchemist’s soulful, sample-heavy beats. Supporting acts like Jalen Ngonda, MAVI, and Sven Wunder will join on select dates, adding layers of R&B, rap, and instrumental flair to the lineup.   

    Born Fredrick Jamel Tipton on June 14, 1982, in Gary, Indiana, Freddie Gibbs grew up on the city’s east side amid challenging circumstances. He briefly attended Ball State University on a football scholarship but was expelled, leading him to enlist in the U.S. Army at age 19 as part of a pre-trial diversion for theft and gun charges—only to be dishonorably discharged after eight months for marijuana use. Turning to music, Gibbs connected with local producer Finger Roll and joined the No Tamin Entertainment crew, releasing his first mixtape, Full Metal Jackit, in 2004. A short-lived deal with Interscope Records in 2006 ended without an album due to label shakeups, but Gibbs persevered independently.

    His breakthrough came in the 2010s with mixtapes like Cold Day in Hell (2011) and Baby Face Killa (2012) during a stint with Young Jeezy’s CTE World. After parting ways in 2013, he founded his own label, ESGN, and dropped his debut album of the same name. Gibbs’ solo discography shines with projects like Shadow of a Doubt (2015), You Only Live 2wice (2017), Freddie (2018), Soul Sold Separately (2022)—which peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard 200—and You Only Die 1nce (2024). His collaborative work stands out, including three with The Alchemist (Fetti with Currensy in 2018, Alfredo in 2020, and Alfredo 2 in 2025). Alfredo earned a Grammy nod for Best Rap Album, while Gibbs’ uncredited feature on Ye’s “Back to Me” (2024) hit No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100. Beyond music, he’s ventured into acting with roles in Power Book IV: Force (2022), Bust Down (2022), and the film Down with the King (2021). 

    “Alfredo: The Tour” draws from the raw, introspective vibes of the Alfredo series, where Gibbs grapples with personal growth, street life, and moral ambiguities over The Alchemist’s intricate production. Expect sets heavy on tracks from both albums, plus fan favorites from Gibbs’ catalog. The tour spans from Philadelphia on September 20 to San Francisco on November 10, hitting theaters, ballrooms, and iconic spots like Red Rocks Amphitheatre.  

    For fans in and around Rochester, New York, the nearest stops offer prime opportunities to catch Gibbs live without a long haul:

    The closest is Toronto, Ontario, on October 19 at History, just about 160 miles away—a quick drive across the border. Tickets start at around $75.   

    Next up is Cleveland, Ohio, on October 17 at Agora Theatre, roughly 220 miles from Rochester, with tickets also starting near $75.   

    Detroit, Michigan, follows on October 18 at the Masonic Jack White Theatre, about 330 miles away, where prices begin at $79.

    If you’re up for a bit more travel, the Brooklyn, New York, shows on September 21 and 22 at Brooklyn Paramount (around 340 miles) have tickets starting at $75.  

    With Gibbs’ reputation for electrifying live shows—fueled by his unfiltered delivery and crowd command—this tour is a must-see for anyone craving authentic hip-hop. Tickets are available now via major outlets like Ticketmaster, but act fast as high-demand stops could sell out. Whether you’re drawn by the beats, the bars, or the backstory, “Alfredo: The Tour” is set to serve up a feast of hip-hop excellence.  

  • Rascal Flatts to Ignite Buffalo with 2026 Life Is a Highway Tour Finale

    Rascal Flatts to Ignite Buffalo with 2026 Life Is a Highway Tour Finale

    Buffalo Country music fans in Western New York are gearing up for an unforgettable night as Rascal Flatts brings their “Life Is a Highway Tour” to the KeyBank Center on February 28, 2026, marking the grand finale of their 21-city trek. The iconic trio—Gary LeVox, Jay DeMarcus, and Joe Don Rooney—will cap off their much-anticipated 2026 tour with a high-energy performance, joined by special guests Lauren Alaina and Chris Lane, promising a night of nostalgic hits and heartfelt harmonies.

    Following a sold-out 2025 tour celebrating their 25th anniversary, Rascal Flatts is back to “keep the party going,” as DeMarcus enthused, with a setlist packed with fan favorites like “What Hurts the Most,” “Bless the Broken Road,” and, of course, their anthemic “Life Is a Highway.” The tour, named after their 2006 hit and recent Life Is a Highway: Refueled Duets album, showcases the trio’s signature blend of soaring vocals and arena-ready energy, reimagined with collaborations from artists like Blake Shelton and Kelly Clarkson. 

    Fans in Buffalo can expect a nostalgic yet fresh performance, with Alaina and Lane adding their own chart-topping flair to the evening.

    The KeyBank Center show, set to kick off at 7:00 PM, is already generating buzz, with tickets starting at $39 on Ticketmaster and VIP packages offering premium seats, exclusive merchandise, and access to the Rascal Flatts VIP Lounge. After a five-year hiatus, the trio’s return has been met with overwhelming fan enthusiasm, and Buffalo’s passionate country music scene is ready to deliver a raucous sing-along to close out the tour.

    Don’t miss your chance to see Rascal Flatts light up Buffalo on February 28, 2026. Tickets are on sale now at RascalFlatts.com and VIPNation.com. With a limited run of shows, this is one highway you’ll want to ride to the very end.

  • JID’s “God Does Like Paradise Tour” North American Leg Preview

    JID’s “God Does Like Paradise Tour” North American Leg Preview

    Atlanta rapper JID, born Destin Choice Route, is set to ignite stages across North America with his “God Does Like Paradise Tour,” the North American leg of his expansive “God Does Like World Tours.” This blockbuster run, supporting his critically acclaimed fourth studio album God Does Like Ugly (released August 8, 2025, via Dreamville/Interscope), kicks off October 15, 2025, in Virginia Beach, VA, and wraps with a two-night finale at Brooklyn’s Paramount on December 15 and 16. With fellow Atlanta native Young Nudy as a special guest for most U.S. dates, alongside additional acts like Baby Kia, DC The Don, and Kai Ca$h, JID is poised to deliver a high-energy celebration of hip-hop that showcases his lyrical dexterity and electrifying stage presence. For fans in and around Rochester, NY, the tour offers several nearby shows to catch this rising star in action.

    JID’s Background: From East Atlanta to Global Stages

    Born on October 31, 1990, in East Atlanta, JID grew up immersed in his parents’ collection of classic funk and soul LPs, which shaped his eclectic musical palette. Influences like OutKast, Goodie Mob, Lil Wayne, and Wu-Tang Clan fueled his passion for hip-hop, while his fluent rapping style and intricate wordplay have earned him widespread critical acclaim. JID first gained recognition with independent projects like Route of Evil (2012), Para Tu (2013), and DiCaprio (2015). His big break came in 2017 when he signed with J. Cole’s Dreamville Records, releasing his debut album The Never Story, which featured the standout single “Never.” Subsequent projects, including DiCaprio 2 (2018) and The Forever Story (2022), solidified his reputation as a lyrical powerhouse. His 2021 single “Enemy” with Imagine Dragons, the theme for Netflix’s Arcane, became his highest-charting hit, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot 100.

    JID’s latest album, God Does Like Ugly, has been hailed as one of 2025’s strongest hip-hop releases, with critics praising its ambitious production and introspective storytelling. Featuring heavyweights like Clipse, Vince Staples, Ciara, and Westside Gunn, the album reflects JID’s evolution as an artist who carries “the weight of Atlanta’s past, present, and future” on his shoulders. The tour’s title, God Does Like Paradise, nods to the album’s themes of resilience and redemption, promising fans a live experience that’s both raw and reflective.

    Tour Highlights and Rochester, NY Proximity

    The North American leg of the “God Does Like Paradise Tour” spans 31 shows across major cities, with Young Nudy bringing his signature trap energy to all U.S. dates (except Canadian stops). The tour’s itinerary includes stops in Chicago, Seattle, Miami, and more, but for Rochester, NY, fans, three nearby shows stand out:

    •  October 22, 2025 â€“ Toronto, ON @ REBEL: Just a three-hour drive from Rochester, this show at the 2,500-capacity REBEL nightclub offers an intimate setting to experience JID’s dynamic performance. Note that Young Nudy will not appear at this Canadian date, but JID’s solo set, likely featuring tracks like “WRK” and “Surround Sound,” will keep the energy high.

    •  October 24, 2025 â€“ Montreal, QC @ MTELUS: A four-hour drive from Rochester, this stop at the 2,300-capacity MTELUS venue promises a vibrant atmosphere. Like the Toronto show, it’s a Young Nudy-free performance, but JID’s reputation as a “notorious live performer” ensures a memorable night.

    •  December 15-16, 2025 â€“ Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Paramount: Approximately a five-and-a-half-hour drive from Rochester, these back-to-back shows mark the tour’s grand finale. The 2,700-capacity Brooklyn Paramount will host JID and Young Nudy, delivering a high-octane close to the North American leg.

    What to Expect from the Tour

    JID’s live shows are known for their raw, unfiltered energy, transforming venues into “high-octane, crowd-shaking celebrations.”. Additional acts like Baby Kia and DC The Don will bring fresh voices to the stage, amplifying the tour’s appeal. JID’s promise of a special Atlanta hometown show (date TBD) underscores his commitment to his roots, but for now, Rochester fans can plan road trips to Toronto, Montreal, or Brooklyn to catch him live.

    Tickets for North American shows are available through Ticketmaster.

    His journey from East Atlanta to global stages mirrors the hustle and heart of his music, making these shows a must-see for fans of lyrical precision and authentic storytelling. Whether you’re vibing to “151 Rum” or reflecting on the personal narratives of God Does Like Ugly, JID’s “God Does Like Paradise Tour” is set to be a defining moment in his career—and a thrilling experience for North America

    For more details and tickets, visit www.jidsv.com.