Artist Spotlight

Diddy’s Ex-Bodyguard Sounds Alarm on Biggie Smalls Catalog Sale

The legacy of The Notorious B.I.G., a legendary rapper, is facing a major controversy as reports surface that his publishing and publicity rights may be sold for an astonishing $100 million to $150 million. However, concerns have been raised by Gene Deal, a former bodyguard of Puff Daddy (Diddy), about the true motivations behind this deal. In a recent interview, Deal expressed his worries about the people involved in this high-profile sale, particularly Mark Pitts and Wayne Barrow, who were once closely associated with Biggie during his time at Bad Boy Records. Deal suggested that these individuals are not acting in the best interest of Biggie’s loved ones, especially as Biggie’s mother, Voletta Wallace, is reportedly in poor health.

He stated, “They’re making deals to sell Biggie’s publishing and marketing rights, everything related to him. But it’s not for Miss Wallace or Biggie’s kids.” These revelations have shocked many fans and industry insiders, raising important questions about who will truly benefit from the sale of Biggie’s music and legacy. If Deal’s claims are accurate, this could be another case of exploitation in the music business, where the estates of deceased artists are often caught up in complicated deals that prioritize profit over respect for the artist and their family. For fans, selling Biggie’s music is a mixed bag. On one hand, it ensures that his incredible music continues to be valuable and generate income.

But if that money isn’t going to Biggie’s family, it raises serious concerns about who controls his legacy and who should benefit from it. There have been no official comments from those involved, leaving the hip-hop community anxiously awaiting more information. Meanwhile, Deal’s comments remind us that the struggle over an artist’s impact and earnings continues even after they pass away. As this story develops, The Notorious B.I.G.’s legacy deserves to be treated with the respect and admiration that a hip-hop icon commands.

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Related Topics:Diddy Gene Deal The Notorious B.I.G.

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Honk Magazine

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.