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Remixes have long played an important role in music culture, giving artists the opportunity to breathe new life into existing records through fresh production, guest appearances, alternate arrangements, and creative reinterpretations. At their best, remixes don't simply recreate a song—they transform it, offering listeners a new experience while maintaining the heart and message of the original track. Just when listeners were still riding the wave of Josh Banton's original release of Stand On It, he reminded us that there is no expiration date on keeping an audience engaged. The remix proves that a strong song can continue to evolve and connect with listeners in new ways. A special shoutout goes to Akira Charles, whose production helps elevate the record to another level. The refreshed instrumental brings a smooth, laid-back energy that immediately captures the listener's attention. Beyond the beat itself, the remix showcases growth in Josh's delivery, as his wordplay, cadence, and overall flow feel refreshed and tailored to the new sonic landscape. While the original version carried a stylish confidence reminiscent of the energy found in Finesse by Bruno Mars and Cardi B, this remix shifts into a brighter, feel-good lane. The track evokes the nostalgic summer vibes associated with classic Will Smith records, creating a soundtrack perfect for warm-weather playlists, cookouts, and good times. Maybe a modern Willand Jazzy Jeff? What makes this remix stand out is that Josh didn't simply add a verse or tweak the production—he truly remixed the song. The updated arrangement gives Stand On It a completely different feel while preserving the uplifting message at its core. The result is a record that feels familiar yet brand new, proving that remixes can still be an art form when approached with creativity and purpose. In an era where many remixes feel like afterthoughts or marketing tools, Josh Banton's Stand On It remix serves as a reminder of what a remix is supposed to accomplish. By reinventing the sound, adjusting the energy, and creating a fresh listening experience, he transforms an already solid record into a summertime anthem with renewed life. It's a testament to artistic growth, thoughtful production, and the power of revisiting a song with a new perspective. If this remix is any indication, Josh Banton understands that great music doesn't just have a moment—it creates momentum.

The second visual released from Chris Brown’s new project is nothing short of cinematic. The first video, “Falling” featuring Leon Thomas, already hinted at a darker and more artistic direction, drawing comparisons to the atmosphere and visual storytelling seen in the film Sinners. One of the standout similarities came from the signature opening-style scene featuring Michael B. Jordan and the crew riding in the truck toward the gathering, creating an eerie and suspenseful tone. The visual eventually transitions into Brown performing alongside an old-school trio, blending vintage aesthetics with modern storytelling. However, the release of “For the Moment” takes things even further. While still maintaining a cinematic feel, the visual embraces darker themes and pushes them to a more intense level. From the Juggalo-inspired makeup to the shock-factor imagery throughout the video, Chris Brown steps far outside the boundaries of traditional R&B visuals and taps into a more experimental and artistic side of his creativity. In our opinion, the imagery reflects emotional masking and the tension between love, fame, heartbreak, and loneliness. The face paint symbolizes hidden emotions and internal struggles, while the horror-inspired fashion and industrial aesthetics push the music into an alternative lane. What stands out most is Brown’s willingness to evolve beyond the polished “clean-cut” image often associated with mainstream R&B artists. Instead, he continues to reveal different layers of his multifaceted artistry and creative identity. The expressions and performances throughout the video also showcase a more personal and introspective phase of his career. The visual blurs the lines between R&B and alternative rock, incorporating emo-inspired visuals, gothic performance elements, and darker storytelling aesthetics rarely seen within the genre. “With For the Moment,” Chris Brown proves that he is still willing to take creative risks and experiment with new artistic directions. Rather than relying solely on traditional R&B formulas, he embraces cinematic storytelling, alternative fashion influences, and emotionally layered imagery to create a visual experience that feels both haunting and expressive. The video not only highlights his growth as an artist but also demonstrates how modern R&B can continue to evolve by borrowing from rock, emo, and alternative culture. If this visual is any indication of where the project is headed, audiences may be witnessing one of the most creatively ambitious eras of Chris Brown’s career.

Firstly, we want to thank Sean Martin of the Quarantined for reaching out to us at Welcome to the Rawrrzone and Rawrrzone Media. His contact inspired us and fueled our passion to deliver more content from the alternative and rock community. While we have featured some content, as avid rock music fans who also enjoy hip hop, we realized we haven't offered much content beyond traditional entertainment media. In our quest to include more content, we came across the exciting news of Evanescence releasing the visual for Who Will You Follow. This follows the announcement of Evanescence launching a new project after a long hiatus and the emotional impact of their return with a tour this summer. Since the release of Bring Me to Life in April 2003, Amy Lee and the band have explored themes of grief, healing, resilience, inner darkness, and empowerment. Their reemergence in 2026 comes at a time when the world is experiencing widespread emotional burnout, influenced by political issues affecting our communities and the world. For those dealing with mental health challenges and trauma, seeking emotional refuge and survival, their music offers solace. It not only unites the older generation of rock fans but also connects with newer generations who find refuge in their music. At Rawrrzone, we often listen to the "Synthesis" project, where Amy Lee reimagined some of their greatest hits with an orchestra. Their return and new project highlight the relevance of expressive rock in today's media landscape, especially as Evanescence has always been distinct from mainstream rock and the MTV/TRL era. The video, released on May 15th, 2026, explores themes of identity and narrates a story set in a bustling city. It introduces the beginning of a narrative questioning whether we will continue to succumb to modern chaos, with Amy Lee embodying the determination to resist and inspiring others to do the same. Her iconic voice, which captivated us 23 years ago, is now presented from a more mature perspective. Evanescence’s return in 2026 feels less like a nostalgic reunion and more like an artistic reawakening. “Who Will You Follow” reminds audiences why the band has remained emotionally relevant for over two decades. At a time when listeners are searching for authenticity, healing, and emotional release, Amy Lee’s voice once again becomes a source of comfort and resistance against the noise of modern life. The visual not only introduces a new era for the band but also reinforces the enduring power of expressive rock music in today’s culture. For longtime fans, it is a reminder of why Evanescence mattered in the first place. For newer audiences, it serves as an introduction to a band whose music continues to transcend generations, pain, and time itself.

Welcome to the Rawrrzone pulled up to the PNSBC All Star Game to capture the energy, competition, and next generation of NYC basketball talent in action! From the 3-Point Shootout to the Skills Competition and the All Star Game itself, the atmosphere at the Sonia Sotomayor Center was electric. Big shout out to the players, coaches, families, and community that continue to make the a powerful platform for youth development, sportsmanship, and opportunity both on and off the court. Tap in with Rawrrzone On Location for exclusive moments, highlights, and behind-the-scenes coverage

Josh Banton is the epitome of “where there’s a will, there’s a way.” As a father, husband, and a hard worker constantly on the road, he continues to push forward through life’s trials and tribulations while remaining grounded in gratitude for every blessing that comes his way. In 2025, Banton made his presence felt with standout singles like “Temperature” and “Caribbean Girls,” records that captured his ability to create feel-good, Caribbean-infused vibes. He later surprised fans during the holidays with “A Truckin Christmas,” showing his versatility and willingness to step outside the box. But beyond the vibes, these releases laid the foundation for something bigger—growth. Now, we’re starting to see a more polished and refined version of Josh Banton emerge. Shoutout to The After Hours Show for dropping a mic stand performance video of Josh previewing his upcoming single “Stand On It.” From this early look, the record carries a powerful and uplifting message—no matter the obstacles, there is a greater force guiding and protecting you. Banton doesn’t just deliver that message—he stands firmly in it. Since the start of the new year, there’s been a noticeable shift in his presence. There’s a lighter energy, a clearer sense of direction, and a deeper hunger to explore the lane he’s stepping into. This isn’t just another release—it feels intentional. In his interview with Middle of the Fence, Josh shared that he’s finally creating music that truly feels like him, and that authenticity is beginning to shine through more than ever. Compared to the wave of “Caribbean Girls” and “Temperature,” which leaned heavily into vibe-driven records, “Stand On It” feels more grounded, purposeful, and emotionally connected. This is a more refined Banton—one who has found his pocket and is now elevating within it. We’re excited to see what happens when Josh Banton officially releases “Stand On It” in the coming weeks. If this preview is any indication, he’s not just making music—he’s stepping into his next level. Follow him on instagram now @joshbantonn

The year 2026 marks a significant milestone for Kehlani, as she earned her first two Grammy Awards for her hit single “Folded” in the categories of Best R&B Performance and Best R&B Song. In addition, she received the iHeartRadio Music Award for Best R&B Song of the Year and was honored with the Billboard Women in Music 2026 Impact Award. At the Femme It Forward Give Her FlowHers Gala, she was presented with the Alchemist Award and also recognized as an ASCAP Women Behind the Music honoree. The R&Bae artist’s relentless dedication continues to shine. Her next accolade? Debuting at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 with her latest release, a self-titled project that pays homage to traditional R&B while blending vulnerability, healing, confidence, and modern storytelling. The 17-track album is truly her most personal and intentional body of work to date. The project proves not only that Kehlani has a clearer sense of self, but also that she refuses to fall into the constraints of today’s fast-moving media culture. She has carved out her own lane and fully made it hers. In an interview with Billboard’s Lyndsey Havens during her Women in Music feature, Kehlani stated: “We want three verses and bridges and modulations and all the things — we want that too. We just didn’t think anybody else wanted it. I have an allegiance to the genre, and I’ll keep it there.” That allegiance is felt throughout the project. The album carries a smooth mid-tempo 90s and early-2000s R&B influence, especially on tracks like “Oooh,” bringing out everyone’s softer side. It highlights not only the homage Kehlani pays to classic R&B, but also how much her songwriting has evolved. Compared to her earlier projects, you can hear the transition from a hungry newcomer uploading music to mixtape platforms with looser songwriting and atmospheric synths, to the darker, more cinematic “Gangsta” era that introduced her to mainstream audiences. Back then, listeners saw how deep and emotionally chaotic she could get, embracing the toxic themes often found in R&B. In 2026, however, Kehlani sounds like someone who has finally found her place within the genre. Let’s get into what stands out most about this project. “Folded” The breakout hit that earned Kehlani her first two Grammy Awards is one of the most emotionally charged songs on the album, offering a modern-day perspective on breakup culture. The vulnerability feels deep yet controlled, and Kehlani does an incredible job making the song emotionally direct without becoming overly dramatic vocally or lyrically. The metaphor of folded clothes representing emotional distance and the end of intimacy within a relationship is simple but powerful. “Folded” feels timeless because it captures heartbreak in such a relatable and visual way. “I Need You” feat. Brandy As a lover of R&B, seeing Brandy and Kehlani collaborate was one of the highlights of the entire project. This track feels like a generational moment for R&B fans — almost as if the torch is being passed from one era to the next. The chemistry between the two artists is undeniable. Their vocal layering, emotional delivery, and back-and-forth energy create a powerful duet that honors classic R&B while still feeling fresh and current. There’s a confidence and emotional maturity in this record that makes it one of the standout collaborations on the album. “Back and Forth” feat. Missy Elliott I love a great Hip-Hop and R&B collaboration, and this track absolutely delivers. Missy Elliott brings her legendary charisma and larger-than-life personality to the song, while Kehlani matches the energy effortlessly. The production is playful, high-energy, and full of personality, creating that old-school chemistry many fans miss in today’s music. Kehlani proves she can keep pace with a Hip-Hop icon like Missy while still making the song feel authentically hers. It’s a fun switch-up in tempo and energy within the album. “Cruise Control” “Cruise Control” brings back the carefree energy that longtime Kehlani fans fell in love with during her earlier projects, while still showcasing her growth in confidence and presentation. Kehlani absolutely glides across this track. It feels like wind-in-your-hair, summer-night driving music — smooth, nostalgic, and effortless. The song captures freedom and emotional ease in a way that balances out some of the heavier moments on the album. “Unlearn” One of my personal favorites on the album — maybe because it hits extremely close to home. As the final track, “Unlearn” serves as the emotional culmination of the entire project. The song focuses on healing, accountability, and breaking toxic cycles, tying together all the themes of growth and self-awareness explored throughout the album. “Unlearn” feels like Kehlani reflecting on everything she has gone through publicly and privately. Everyone has experienced a relationship or situation that, in some way, changed or damaged them. The difficult part is confronting those lessons honestly and doing the uncomfortable work required to heal. That’s what makes this song so powerful. It speaks to anyone trying to rebuild themselves and step into a second act after pain, heartbreak, or self-destruction. Final Rawrrzone Take Kehlani’s self-titled album is more than just another R&B release — it’s a statement piece. It represents an artist who has fully embraced her identity, her influences, and her emotional growth without compromising herself for trends or algorithms. From the raw vulnerability of her early mixtape days, to the darkness and intensity of the “Gangsta” era, to the maturity and confidence displayed on this album, Kehlani’s evolution has been incredible to witness. She isn’t chasing moments anymore — she’s creating legacy. This project reminds listeners why R&B matters: honest storytelling, emotional depth, timeless vocals, and music that grows with you through every phase of life. Kehlani didn’t just make an album for this moment. She made one that feels like it will still resonate years from now. Subscribe to our website for music and more

Kendu 718, representing NY, unleashes the official video to his new single "Gritty," produced by Juxx Diamondz. Bushwick, graffit marked walls serve as Kendu's backdrop while he's mean mugging and spitting his signature blend of lyricism, storytelling, and slick metaphors. Watch this dose of intimidation and tap into the interview below with Kendu 718. MJ: Before we jump into your new single "Gritty," take a moment to let the world know who Kendu 718 is. Kendu 718: Kendu 718 is someone who really lives what he talks about. I come from the pain of the ghetto—both my mother and father struggled with drug addiction, and growing up, all I saw was crime, poverty, and hardship. That was my environment. But through God’s grace, I was able to change my life. I left the streets behind 17 years ago, and I’ve been clean and abstinent from drugs and alcohol ever since. MJ: When I think of gritty New York Hip Hop, you fit the mark. Define your lane in Hip Hop. Kendu 718: I’m part of the culture, this isn’t something I picked up, it’s something I’ve lived. Hip-hop is a lifestyle, not just something you do in the studio. I’m not chasing trends or trying to fit into what’s popular. I represent authenticity, experience, and real New York energy. I’ve been doing this for years, and my lane is staying true to the essence of the culture. MJ: Let’s talk about the new single "Gritty." What can listeners expect once they hit play? Kendu 718: The truth. Straight up. Real-life stories that reflect what I’ve been through and what I’ve seen in the streets. It’s raw, it’s honest, and it shows survival. When you hit play, you’re stepping into reality—no gimmicks, no filters. “Gritty” is my story. It’s everything I lived and everything I witnessed. But more importantly, it’s a message—just because we come from struggle doesn’t mean we have to stay there. We can grow, change, and build responsible, productive lives. Stream “Gritty” on preferred platforms - Gritty MJ: How did you link up with Juxx Diamondz and Back Block Music Group LLC? Kendu 718: That connection goes back. I met Juxx through a mutual friend—rest in peace to the OG Benny Hill from Harlem, who managed both of us around 2011–2012. That foundation built real chemistry, and from there, everything developed naturally. MJ: What is next for Kendu 718? What are you currently working on? Kendu 718: Right now, I’m working on my EP titled From God’s Mouth to Y’all Ears: The Sermon. It’s produced by myself and Juxx Diamondz, with additional production from SaulyOBeats, SkullzAngels, and my guy Dreadful Krueger. Everybody brought heat to the project. We also have some dope features on it. MJ: Give audiences a little more insight into the sound and movement behind the project. Kendu 718: We’re putting this out independently through Back Block Music Group, with distribution through Roc Nation. The project is a combination of strong lyricism, real-life storytelling, and powerful features. We represent that golden era sound—we’re keeping that foundation alive. And we’re always boots on the ground, staying connected to the people and the culture. MJ: Let everyone know where they can find your music and stay connected. Kendu 718: You can find my music on all digital streaming platforms. Follow me @Kendu_718 on Instagram to stay locked in. This is just the beginning—it’s going to be a hot summer. Peace. BONUS VIDEO

Mental health isn’t just a conversation—it’s a movement. 💜On this powerful episode of Middle of The Fence Podcast, Sarah Rose, founder of BPD Beautiful, sits down with Andre Spurel to share her journey navigating Borderline Personality Disorder and turning pain into purpose. From breaking stigmas to building a supportive community, Sarah speaks candidly about what it really means to live with BPD, how self-awareness becomes a superpower, and why representation in mental health spaces matters now more than ever. This episode isn’t just about awareness—it’s about empowerment, healing, and giving a voice to those who’ve felt misunderstood for far too long.

What started as an interview with a hip hop legend has blossomed into a profound and lasting admiration for his extensive body of work that has spanned over two decades. This artist's journey began in the vibrant and dynamic environment of hip hop's birthplace, where he emerged as a young DJ. His early days were spent spinning records at local house parties, where he honed his skills and developed a keen ear for music that would set the tone for his future endeavors. His passion for music was evident, but the path to success was not without its challenges. Eventually, he made the pivotal decision to move to Florida with his mother, a move that would prove to be instrumental in his career. In the bustling city of Miami, he took to the streets with his record crates in tow, going door to door in search of that elusive big break. His relentless pursuit of opportunities led him to promote music for generations of artists, including some of the most iconic names in the industry, such as Rick Ross and the powerhouse collective known as G-Unit. His collaborations did not stop there; he also had the privilege of touring with hip hop icons like 50 Cent, which further solidified his reputation in the music scene. His versatility as a DJ has not only earned him respect within the hip hop community but has also opened doors for him to perform at prestigious venues around the globe. Notable among these are gigs at New York's renowned Power 105 and Miami's WEDR 99 Jamz, where he captivated audiences with his unique style and infectious energy. In addition to his DJing prowess, he has taken his talents to the next level by producing his own show on LL Cool J's Rock The Bells Radio on Sirius XM, aptly named The Saturday Night Ride. This show, which airs from 9 pm to 1 am on Sundays, showcases his deep knowledge of music and his ability to connect with listeners, making it a must-listen for hip hop enthusiasts. This year marks a significant milestone for him, as he celebrates his 50th birthday, a momentous occasion that coincides with Rawrrzone's 9th birthday. Given this serendipitous alignment of events, we could think of no better fit for our April Rawrrzone Spotlight than the one and only, the legendary DJ Epps. His journey through the world of hip hop is not just a testament to his talent but also to his unwavering dedication and passion for the art form, making him a true icon in the industry. 1) Last time we spoke, you broke down your journey—now stepping into 50, what does this chapter represent for DJ Epps? That milestone represent a lot. It helps me look back at my pass to see what else needs to be done in the future with my brand such as personal Events, more music to put out help shape the culture to be better and more successful investments. 2. When you think about that 14-year-old kid rocking his first house party… what would he say if he saw you now? You did it, bro absolutely proud of the accomplishment and the legacy we built. 3. What’s something people still don’t understand about your journey to becoming DJ Epps? How important it is to leave a major stamp in this culture as one of the world famous biggest DJ that my kids could be proud of and hopefully keep the legacy going to their journey. 4. Over the years, your sound has evolved with culture—how do you stay ahead without losing your identity? You gotta stay humble and continue to be ahead of the game. Always be ahead of the game so that allows you to adapt with what you’re facing in the future. 5. You’ve been in multiple eras of hip-hop—what’s one shift in the culture that challenged you the most? One was the shift of the sound of the music that changed like twice in the course of my career. Another one was technology using Serato and going digital and leaving analog alone and last was the pandemic that made me realize everything could be gone in a snap of a finger but once again you have to learn how to adapt into the new world to move forward. 6. What habits or mindset changes helped you transition from “hot DJ” to “legend status”? All the hard work dedication and having a great soul to make sure your fan base ambience, friends family know that you made it to legacy Status. 7. You’ve built a reputation for breaking records—what separates a DJ who plays music from one who controls the room? Breaking Records allows you to be known as a person and introduction to a new sound or artist and once you balance that we’re rocking a party and doing radio stations shows how great of a DJ you are. 8. In today’s era of playlists and algorithms, what’s the value of a real DJ in 2026? I think it’s your performance everybody and anybody is all of a sudden at Dj but if you could perform and make people go on a journey on a ride and remember you for what and how you made them feel is the difference. 9. What’s a moment where you had to take a risk on a record and it paid off? One of my moments is when Rick Ross came to me with a CD and a black sharpie on it that said HUSTLIN’. This was an error and time where MUSIC was changing and I felt I had to take a risk on that change. 10. How do you approach blending global sounds into your sets while keeping hip-hop at the core? it’s always great to be open minded with an open format and not just Hip hop. I approach it by staying in tune with other genres of music and learn how to blend it throughout my performance. Photo by Katie Kay Photography 11. Being Haitian-American, how important is it for you to represent culture in your mixes today? It's just as important as the latin keeps Reggaeton in their music playlist Africans with Afrobeats etc. 12. What city outside of Miami or NYC surprised you the most energy-wise? It’s all in the European and middle eastern side. Like Dubai, Bahrain, Germany etc. they know how to party. 13. Hosting your show on Rock The Bells Radio—how did that opportunity change your career vision? That all happened in the pandemic when I was ready to hang it up and then a magical phone call from LL Cool J came through and offered me an opportunity to carry on my legacy and continue to do what I love to do. 14. What’s the difference between DJing live vs curating a radio experience? DJing live in front of people is like having a therapy session and making sure you’re creating a room with the clients in front of you which is a great feeling as for radio I know I’m DJing for over 1 million listeners that is also a great blessing and feeling When you finally run into the person and they are happy to meet you. 15 What do you want listeners to feel when they tap into “Saturday Night Ride”? As if there’s a party in the living room And they feel that energy through the box as if I’m right next to them. 16. What do you want the independent to understand or learn about the industry everytime they tap in with you for New Music Mondays or invest in promoting their music with you? That I am the DJ they need to help get their music or career jump started. That’s why I created the platform cause there is a lack of support and new music being exposed. That’s why I created NEW MUSIC AT 10 across my platforms. 17. At 50, what are you still chasing? Energy, Knowledge, Health & Wealth. Pour all that into my investments for the future of my family. 18. What does “legacy” mean to you now? It will forever be means my REPUTATION. 19. How do you want DJ Epps to be remembered in hip-hop history? As one of the greatest Dj of all time. 20. What’s a behind-the-scenes story you’ve never told that defines your career? My Family. Something I will always keep private but know that’s who I do it for. 21. If you had to pick one night that represents DJ Epps at his peak… what night is that? Sunday Night where I’m at peace and I recharge to my peak so I can do knock out the whole week again. 22. Finish this sentence: “At 50, DJ Epps is just getting started because…” YOU HAVEN'T SEEN ANYTHING YET, NO IM ABOUT TO #LTMFK Follow him everywhere @djepps

T-Roy, also known as Reezy, has just released the latest single from the much-anticipated "Cognac and Cufflinks" today, and it's got us grooving through our daily routines. As noted by Andrew Flanagan of Billboard, 1992 is considered the pinnacle of 90's music, with Columbia Music subscriptions introducing a new era of music distribution by sending free CDs to customers everywhere, delivering hits from the Beastie Boys, Dr. Dre, and others. The single takes us back to those glorious times. Upon our initial listen, we found ourselves captivated by the song's intro, which immediately struck a chord with us, prompting us to mention to T-Roy that it bore a striking resemblance to the distinctive style of Slick Rick. This comparison is particularly poignant as Slick Rick is renowned for his storytelling prowess and unique vocal delivery, which have defined a significant era in hip hop history. The way the intro unfolds transports us back to the vibrant and transformative early days of hip hop, a time characterized by innovative beats, lyrical creativity, and a sense of community that was palpable in the air. In addition to the homage to Slick Rick, we were also reminded of the iconic track "1999" by Prince. This classic not only encapsulates the spirit of celebration and revelry but also evokes a sense of nostalgia for a time when music was a unifying force, bringing people together to dance and celebrate life. The infectious energy of both Slick Rick's storytelling and Prince's euphoric soundscape resonates deeply within the fabric of the song, creating a rich tapestry of influences that enrich the listening experience. As we immerse ourselves in the music, we can't help but reflect on the importance of celebrating life with our loved ones. The lyrics and melodies invite us to gather together, to revel in the joy of shared moments, and to create lasting memories. In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, the ability to come together, to laugh, dance, and enjoy each other's company, becomes all the more precious. Let us cherish these moments and celebrate with our loved ones until we can no longer, embracing the joy of connection and the power of music to elevate our spirits and strengthen our bonds. The upcoming project Cognac and Cufflinks is a dedication to T-Roy's grandmother and it will be dropping in fourth quarter 2026. Follow him on Instagram @theofficialtroydpe

Source https://www.instagram.com/timhannrivera/?hl=en What a wonderful day to be a New Yorker as wrestling enthusiasts from all over the city came together for TimHann Rivera's SubwayMania, an interactive cosplay event created by fans for fans to experience wrestling in real time in the most exciting location of all—the MTA Subway. We always extend our gratitude to our friend Johnny @collecting_with_johnny for consistently providing us with opportunities to shine. Rawrrzone and Gorilla Talk's own Ivy was seen doing what she loves on TimHann Rivera's official Instagram. Attending the event was such an immersive experience that we occasionally forgot we were there as media. Being a spectator of the festivities and experiencing the warm welcome from the talent, such as Luxury Leah portraying Jade Cargill, was truly memorable. As a photographer and media professional, there have been numerous occasions at work where individuals are uncomfortable with a camera in their face, feeling overwhelmed or for other reasons. Luxury Leah approached everyone warmly and encouraged them by asking what they were waiting for, while everyone else was striving to be courteous. When we talked about this with her, she mentioned that taking photos is part of the job and advised us to enjoy the event. From push up contests to content opportunities it truly was a day to remember check out all the photos in our gallery below! Photos by KatieKay Photography Follow @gorillatalkpodcast @rawrrzonenyc @iamivy.xo_ @katiekay_photographyxo

Image : Getty Images After nine long years and several award-winning featured singles, Bruno Mars delivered what fans have been eagerly waiting for by releasing The Romantic just before Valentine's Day. This nine-track project, accompanied by a tour, showcases the Bruno Mars we all adore, with an added romantic flair. The album evokes the essence of 90s Michael Jackson, Prince, and Marvin Gaye. According to Variety, the album debuted at number one on the charts, marking his first full-length project to achieve this milestone. It sold 186,000 copies in its first month, charting faster than Unorthodox Jukebox did in 2013, which took three months. Bruno wasn't just expressing love in this project; he fully embodied it, infusing every note and lyric with a profound sense of passion and commitment. Musically, he brings back the art of serenading, crafting an intimate experience where the listener feels like the sole audience member in a private concert. His voice flows throughout the project with a remarkable fluidity, demonstrating vocal versatility that skillfully merges the rich sounds of 70s soul and funk with the timeless essence of classic crooner vibes. This combination provides the listener with a rich, warm, and intentional experience that resonates on multiple emotional levels. From the lead single I Just Might , which sets the tone with its infectious rhythm and heartfelt lyrics, to the fan favorite On My Soul , which draws nostalgic parallels to Michael Jackson 's iconic tracks like The Way You Make Me Feel and PYT , the project showcases Bruno's ability to channel the spirit of past musical greats while still carving out his unique identity. The way he crafts melodies and harmonies invites the audience to reminisce while simultaneously engaging them in the present moment of his artistry. Tracks like Cha Cha Cha and Dance With Me evoke the playful, exuberant energy of Kiss and 1999 from Prince, seamlessly blending those influences with the smooth, romantic essence of Rock With You . These songs are not merely throwbacks; they are modern interpretations that reflect Bruno Mars' evolution as an artist, finely tuned to represent where he is at this stage in his life. His growth is evident, as he navigates themes of love, joy, and self-reflection, all while maintaining a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly innovative. The production throughout the project complements his vocal prowess, layering rich instrumentation that enhances the emotional weight of his lyrics. Each track is a testament to his dedication to the craft, showcasing not just his technical skills but also his deep understanding of the music's emotional core. Bruno's ability to connect with his audience is palpable, as he invites them into his world, making them feel each beat, each word, and each heartfelt sentiment. This project is not just an album; it is a celebration of love in all its forms, delivered through the lens of an artist who has mastered the art of musical storytelling Our top picks from the project were Cha Cha Cha , Who You Wanna Fight , God Was Showing Off , and I Just Might . Each track delivered its unique allure, devotion, and conflict, encapsulating all aspects of a complete love story. They conveyed a sense of vulnerability while energizing us to dance to the music, reminiscent of the classic Bruno vibes that perfected the formula he introduced years ago.