News
[WATCH] New Book “Trap History” Explores Gentrification, Drug Addiction And Mass Incarceration
A.R. Shaw’s new book Trap History delves into the past, present, and future of Trap music and the Trap and will be released on Halloween, Saturday, October 31.
In a new video interview, Shaw explains his motivation for penning the book that has been covered by REVOLT, The Source, The Hype Magazine, Day 1 Radio, and CashColorCannabis Podcast.
“I’m an Atlanta native, born and raised in Atlanta,” he says. “I saw the beginnings and rise of Trap music. I remember when Trap was just a slang term in Atlanta. It eventually became a music genre. I remember Techwood Homes. I remember the Miami Boys, and now I see gentrification. I witnessed all this stuff happening, and I wanted to be the one telling this story from an insider’s point of view. It goes deeper than just the glorification of just drug dealing, the glorification of getting money. There are real-life people who were affected by Trap. Real-life people who were affected by things that happened in the community. So I really wanted to highlight all this in the book and podcast form.”
The 230-page book and audio documentary feature Shaw’s curated interviews with dozens of history makers, including pioneering Atlanta artists, producers, music executives, and experts who witnessed first-hand the origins and rise of Trap music. The book also explores social issues such as gentrification, drug addiction, and mass incarceration in communities that inspired Trap music.
Rapper Kilo Ali recalls penning “Cocaine (American Has A Problem)” at the age of 16 in 1990 while serving time in the Fulton County Juvenile Detention Center. DJ Toomp recounts touring as the deejay for the 2 Live Crew in the late 1980s and producing early hits for Atlanta rappers Raheem The Dream and MC Shy D. Former Fulton County Assistant District Attorney John Turner explains how the Miami Boys drug gang began infiltrating the Techwood Homes housing projects in 1986, and Magic City strip club founder Michael Barney describes how the gentlemen’s club provided a viable platform for emerging rappers to promote their music. Shaw additionally interviews the likes of OutKast’s Big Boi, T.I., Khujo of Goodie Mob, Young Thug, Gucci Mane, Migos, Shawty Lo, Killer Mike, Zaytoven, Future, and 21 Savage as well as veteran Atlanta music executives Antonio “LA” Reid, Kawan “KP” Prather and Shanti Das.
The post [WATCH] New Book “Trap History” Explores Gentrification, Drug Addiction And Mass Incarceration appeared first on The Source.
Artist Spotlight
Phlo-osophy shares a new single, “Scientist Mind (Living My Life)”
Phlo-osophy’s “Scientist Mind (Living My Life)” is a thoughtful and relaxing meditation on intellect and existence, packaged with laid-back production that encourages both thought and comfort. The song starts with atmospheric synths and a low-key beat, creating a space that is the laboratory of contemplation.
Phlo-osophy’s lyrical style steers into tough concepts spontaneous physics of thought, the chemistry of emotion — and yet remains highly accessible. The production is the strength of the production: soft, warm textures, synth pads, muted guitar echoes, quiet electronic pulses, cohere into a hushed, private atmosphere.
The result is a song that teeters between heady curiosity and soulful expression. It’s not out to swamp us with complexity, but to suggest a room in which mind and emotion can cohabitate thoughtfully. “Scientist Mind (Living My Life)” serves as a signal of Phlo-osophy’s approach as an enlightening artist who writes not only with heart, but with mind and who welcomes the listener on its journey of self-discovery.
News
Police Scanner Audio Suggests Lil Nas X May Have Been Tased During Bizarre Studio City Arrest
Last week, an unexpected and surprising situation unfolded involving rapper Lil Nas X. Reports from police audio shared by TMZ reveal a dramatic scene where the Grammy-winning artist was allegedly found walking naked near Universal Studios. This led to police being called to intervene. According to the recordings, things escalated quickly, with indications that officers may have used a taser as Lil Nas ran towards them. As a result of this incident, Nas spent the weekend in jail and appeared in court on Monday, where he pleaded not guilty.
He was later released after paying $75,000 in bail. The details from the police recordings provide a rare glimpse into this intense moment that led to his arrest. Sharing a more personal view, Nas’ father, Robert Stafford, spoke to TMZ, reporting that his son is doing well. “He’s great. God is good, God has a plan. I think you all know everything that you need to know about what happened Thursday,” Stafford stated, showing his faith and support. He reassured fans that Nas is feeling remorseful about the incident, but emphasized that challenges can happen to any family.
He added that Nas is getting the help he needs and encouraged everyone to keep him in their thoughts and prayers. This unfolding story has gained a lot of attention, partly because it provides insight into a part of celebrity life that people don’t usually see. While news often focuses on the finished stories, these police recordings show events as they actually happened, making the situation feel more real and striking. As the legal process continues, many are watching to see what will happen next for Nas, both in his personal life and career.
The police audio serves as a strong reminder of how quickly life can take unexpected turns, even for well-known figures in music. With the support of his family and a focus on moving forward, Nas seems ready to handle this challenging time with responsibility and dignity. This unusual incident highlights the human side of celebrity news, reminding fans that there’s always more to a story than what’s seen in the headlines.
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