Entertainment

THE HARDEST WORKING LABEL IN CHICAGO: THE RISE OF DREAM GLOBAL RECORDS

The music industry is constantly changing, but the Lawrence brothers try to stay ahead of the curve by adapting to and embracing new trends in music and not being afraid to pivot from the old ways. In 2021, Music Executives and siblings D. Lawrence, 31, and Tayski Lawrence, 29, relaunched Dream Global Records, an American record label and management agency.

The pair has a knack for spotting talent and artist development. The formula is simple: Locate talented artists nationally, throw all the resources they have at these young musicians, and build them into the hottest acts out of their cities. That is home to artists like former 1017 records signee RoBoy and Bando Pop, whose latest single, “flights” featuring Lil Baby, garnered over 13 million listens on Spotify.

Following the rise of Dream Global Records, we wanted to dive into how the label functions and how two highly motivated individuals are helping shape the next generation of musicians. With the music distribution arm of Roc Nation, Equity Distribution, distributing Dream Global Records’ music catalog, D. and Tayski Lawrence have been able to run the company while still managing the day-to-day operations of the various artists on their roster. This is a tailor-made experience, and both music Executives know that they have to be creative and steadfast to run the label.

“We pride ourselves in what we do here at Dream Global Records with artist development. Everyone is just catching these one-hit wonders or TikTok moments. Nobody is creating real superstars because everybody got away from artist development. Nobody wants to invest and put the time into artists to build something special.”

“One of the major things about my brother and me is that we always try to teach entrepreneurship to our Artists and everyone around us. We always tell our Artists the same thing: Some music styles don’t trend or last forever. Use your name, your platform, and the money you’re making to invest in other things that can be long-term financial gains to secure you and your children’s futures,” D. Lawrence said. The pair have taken their advice, branching into music management, distribution, and publishing worlds.

You can connect with Dream Global Records on Instagram| Facebook|

Connect with D. Lawrence and Tayski Lawrence on Instagram.

Tweet LinkedIn PinShare1

Artist Spotlight

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 makes a stand for afrobeat against corruption on latest release Na Dem feat. Tom Morello.

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 deliver a powerful afrobeat statement with “Na Dem,” Featuring Tom Morello and produced by Femi Koleoso. The track has been a fan favourite even before its official release, and comes with the unmistakable spirit of protest, truth-telling, and social accountability that have long characterized Afrobeat’s most impactful moments.

The song’s heart is a direct challenge to corruption and the abuse of power. Instead of singling out one profession or institution for its critique, “Na Dem” identifies a larger culture of dishonesty, targeting bad lawyers, bad doctors, bad politicians, and anyone who would sell their integrity for personal gain. The message is sharp and uncompromising and delivered with the urgency that has become a hallmark of Seun Kuti’s artistry.

The inclusion of Tom Morello adds another level of intensity to the record. His presence adds to the song’s rebellious energy, creating a powerful intersection between the rhythmic activism of Afrobeat and the confrontational edge of rock. The result of the collaboration is a track that is both timeless and of the moment.

The song’s dedication to principle is what rings true. The moral center of the record is Seun’s statement that he would never prostitute his conscience for money. It turns “Na Dem” from a critique into a declaration of personal values, responsibility, and resistance.

Connect with Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 on Spotify || Instagram || Facebook || Youtube

Tweet LinkedIn PinShares0

Artist Spotlight

Marsha Bartenetti reinvents in her own style “New York Minute”

Marsha Bartenetti’s latest release, “New York Minute,” written by Don Henley, Danny Kortchmar, and Jai Winding, offers emotional depth, turning a timeless look at life’s fragility into a reflective, cinematic journey. Stephan Oberhoff’s arrangement perfectly frames Bartenetti’s voice, and Kevin Bate’s expressive cello adds a warm resonance that makes the track feel like a movie.

The way each instrument sounds makes it feel planned, which lets the listener stay in the fleeting moments the song so beautifully describes. Bartenetti’s singing is the best part of the song. She shows an openness that feels real, as if she has lost something and still fully embraces love and presence with complete honesty. Her choice of words and small changes in tone make the lyrics feel even closer.

“New York Minute,” is a new version that pays tribute to the original while showcasing Bartenetti’s own style. The movie-like instruments and heartfelt vocals make the song feel both personal and universal. It makes us think about how hard it is to let go and hold on.

Connect with Marsha Bartenetti on Spotify || Facebook