Music

Tekashi 69’s Kidnapper Has Reportedly Been Sentenced To 24 Years In Prison

Getty Image Anthony ‘Harv’ Ellison was also a member of the Nine Trey Bloods gang. …

Tekashi 69’s legal troubles were lessened significantly when the rapper was granted an early release from prison this April. But others involved in his case are just now being put to justice. Anthony “Harv” Ellison, a member of the Nine Trey Bloods gang and the man who Tekashi accused of kidnapping and robbing him, has been reportedly served a 24-year prison sentence.

Ellison’s sentence was served Wednesday by Judge Engelmayer, the same judge who heard Tekashi’s original case, according to HotNewHipHop. Matthew Russell Lee, an independent journalist who has covered Tekashi-related legal matters closely, was present for the hearing. He live-tweeted the proceedings and claimed Ellison stood behind his actions and told the judge. “I’m not an angel,” Ellison said. “But I’m not a monster either.”

Ellison: I'm not an angel. But I'm not a monster either. The moment comes when you understand your purpose, sort of like a blessing.
— Inner City Press (@innercitypress) November 4, 2020

Upon announcing Ellison’s sentence, the judge reportedly commented on his gang affiliation. “This was not a book club that you chose to affiliate with,” Judge Engelmayer said. “The gang inspired fear with shooting, including in Manhattan.” Judge Engelmayer also added that the 24-year sentence could have been longer if he hadn’t taken into account the “harsh conditions of imprisonment during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Judge Engelmayer: Mr. Ellison, let me say it may not feel that way, but you are still a young man. With 15% good time, you'll be out in your early 50s. I was impressed by the letter, including from prison staff. I wish you well. We are adjourned.
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— Inner City Press (@innercitypress) November 4, 2020
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Tekashi 69 originally took the stand to testify against Ellison and name the associate as one of his kidnappers in September of 2019. Ellison’s lawyer said he was potentially facing life in prison in a statement following Tekashi’s testimony, so a 24-year sentence is much lighter than originally anticipated.

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Album Review

Dian Sheng explores identity, life and love with “Sid” album

Dian Sheng releases his long-awaited first English-language album, “Sid,” a genre-defying collection of songs that includes pop, rock, electronic, and jazz. “Sid” is a deep, meditative exploration of identity, relationships, and self-growth, spanning 29 minutes and 12 seconds across eight tracks. This album is a personal exploration of the complex emotions of mankind and the vitality and jubilation of life.

From the opening track, “Right Now,” Dian Sheng establishes a sense of urgency and reflection. The upbeat song “I Come From Far” examines the connection between the self and one’s environment. It has joyful beats and layers that make you think and feel like part of the narrative.

The jazz ballad “Undecided Love” delves into the complexities of modern romance, featuring tender vocals and instrumentation that showcase Sheng’s delicate touch as a songwriter. “It Will Be Alright” is an empowering anthem about overcoming life’s biggest obstacles, combining electronic beats with a rock influence.

“Seventeen” is bursting with youthful energy, and its production captures the restlessness and emotionality of adolescent life. Two introspective songs with similar atmospheres, “The Way Before” and “This Life,” match chilling melodies with moving lyrics that touch on bygone relationships, self-awareness, and the quest for meaning we all experience.

The album concludes with “Shining As Your Name,” and the final few minutes of this piece alone evoke a strong sense of hope. Dian Sheng demonstrates his ability to join emotional depth with new styles. “Sid” is an invitation into the rich musical universe of Dian Sheng, where you can both consider yourself and feel influenced.

Written by:

Faith Koch

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Artist Spotlight

Feel the vibe with Sporty-O’s new EP “The P.L.U.R. Project,” a blend of emotions and sound

“The P.L.U.R. Project” begins like a rush of light across a crowded dance floor as jubilant, purposeful, and very human. This seven-song, 29-minute journey from the EDM pioneer Sporty-O is a cultural reset built around peace, love, unity, and respect.

Sporty-O establishes the emotional timbre for the entire project from the first track of its lead single, “Spirit Higher.” The song is anthemic, its purposes well outlined despite a high-gloss production. It’s a centerpiece that establishes the mood of an intensive exploration of sound and self-awareness.

“The P.L.U.R. Project” is just as much about managing your feelings as it is about moving. Sporty-O creates each record with intention, writing things that make people think on the dance floor. Another high-energy song is “Happy Together,” with Lorme and Chris Willis, pulsing warmth and togetherness. “SOLD!” has a clean, feel-good sound that embodies the community spirit of EDM culture.

Sporty-O embraces a multi-genre EDM palette on the EP, fusing forward-thinking sounds with uptempo beats. Tracks like “Revolution” with Specimen A and “Geek’d Up” with Baby Sweet provide lots of energy and edge. “Piece Of My Mind” is more introspective, while “Cheveyo” features a diverse array of collaborators and culminates in a rich, layered sound, all while maintaining a global welcoming spirit.

What makes this project unique is that it serves both and reminds people of the origins of dance culture. Sporty-O aims to help people rediscover the heartbeat of the community. “The P.L.U.R. Project” is an EDM experience that reaches beyond the speakers, colorful and thoughtful about meaning in music-based culture.