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Alex Tumay Thanks Metro Boomin For Giving Him His First Shot

Those who appreciate the work that occurs in the studio likely know the name of Alex Tumay. Having worked on music with Young Thug, 21 Savage, Travis Scott, T.I, Kanye West, Metro Boomin, Future, Gunna, and more, Tumay has solidified himself as one of hip-hop’s most trusted sound engineers. With today marking the seven-year anniversary of Metro Boomin’s iconic mixtape 19 & Boomin, the project that actually served as Tumay’s big break, the engineer took to Twitter to share a few words on the occasion.

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“7 years ago today @MetroBoomin announced the tracklist for his first project and gave me my first real shot at mixing/exec producing a project in the industry,” he writes, posting an image of the tracklist in question. “Without Metro or this project who knows where I’d be right now. Forever grateful.”

It goes without saying that the recording engineers are an integral piece of the puzzle, and in many cases, they remain the game’s unsung heroes. Having contributed to shaping the sound of soo many modern rap superstars, Tumay certainly deserves his flowers — especially given the stellar work he did in bringing Young Thug’s catalog to life. Should you be interested in hearing more about his story navigating the industry, be sure to check out our exclusive interview from a few years ago. Congratulations to Alex Tumay on this latest milestone achievement.

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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.

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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.

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