Story

N.O.R.E Takes A Defiant Stand Against DJ Vlad

DJ Vlad has built up a sizable platform throughout the years, amassing interviews with many of the game’s rising rappers, not to mention countless conversations with OGs and veterans. And while some have criticized the media personality for a variety of reasons, many rappers have continued to sit down with VLAD TV, to the point where his platform boasts one of hip-hop’s most expansive archives. Recently, however, DJ Vlad has found himself on the receiving end of a widespread movement (arguably spearheaded by Royce Da 5’9″), one that recently found N.O.R.E taking a vocal stand against him.

N.O.R.E

Robin L Marshall/Getty Images

It started when Vlad made disparaging remarks about DJ Louis Farrakhan during an interview with D.L. Hughley, which went on to upset artists like Royce Da 5’9, Nick Cannon, and Lord Jamar, one of Vlad’s frequent collaborators. Though Vlad maintained that he had misquoted the Minister, many rappers felt that his statement was disingenuous, to the point where the narrative has since begun to turn against the interviewer. So much so that Noreaga has officially issued a public request that Vlad remove all videos involving him from the DJ Vlad YouTube channel.

“Vlad TV, I feel like he disrespected hip-hop,” says N.O.R.E. “I feel like he disrespected Louis Farrakhan, and he didn’t say sorry. So Vlad TV or anyone watching this, I would like you personally Vlad, to take every video with N.O.R.E that’s on your site, to take it off. I’m asking you that as a favor, I know I could have called you on the phone, but this is a public situation. Not a private situation. So this is your boy N.O.R.E signing off. I don’t want anything to do with that.”

Check out N.O.R.E’s request below, and sound off — do you think Vlad owes it to N.O.R.E to acquiesce with the request?

Tweet LinkedIn PinShares0

Artist Spotlight

The Real Mack The Knife honors memory and spirit with soulful release “Rio Grande de Loíza”

The song “Rio Grande de Loíza” by The Real Mack The Knife is a powerful tribute to Puerto Rico’s history, memory, and sacred spirit. The track transforms nature into something spiritual, intimate, and timeless, inspired by the legendary river and Julia de Burgos’ immortal voice.

The song “Rio Grande de Loíza” has an old, alive vibe from the beginning. River water, moonlight, desire, and cultural memory shape a song that seems to rise from the ground. The Real Mack The Knife uses the river as a living, symbolic being, unlike the original work.

Julia de Burgos gives the piece incredible depth. She sees the river as a witness, a mother, a wound, a mirror, and a prayer throughout the song’s emotional landscape. The literary and spiritual connection gives the track a haunting beauty beyond music.

Connect with The Real Mack The Knife on Spotify || Instagram || Facebook || Youtube

Tweet LinkedIn PinShares0

Artist Spotlight

Devan Ibiza adds soul and reflection on new release “Portland”

With “Portland,” Devan Ibiza creates a warm, thoughtful, atmospheric hip-hop record rooted in boom-bap’s deep, reflective energy. Soulful production and introspective mood make it a quiet moment of thought rather than a distraction.

“Portland” embodies classic hip-hop. Boom-bap gives it a rhythmic foundation, and warm, soulful production draws listeners in. This beat is perfect for contemplation, letting emotion and thought flow.

The single’s mood adds interest. Devan Ibiza values subtlety and atmosphere over loudness and trends. The song’s restraint is its strength. Late-night thoughts, personal memories, and quiet realizations make “Portland” contemplative.

Devan Ibiza’s release is well-paced emotionally. Since the song is never rushed or crowded, its atmosphere can naturally resonate. That patience gives “Portland” a timeless quality usually reserved for classic hip-hop stories and soulful underground records.

Connect with Devan Ibiza on Spotify || Instagram || Facebook || Youtube