Music
Lil Wayne Snubs Cash Money Reunion at Essence Festival for Solo Spotlight

Lil Wayne didn’t join his former label mates at the Essence Festival, opting instead for a solo performance after their set. Fans expecting a Birdman, Cash Money, and Hot Boys reunion were left wanting more when Wayne took the stage alone, replacing the Cash Money logos with his Young Money insignias.
The Cash Money reunion at the Essence Festival in New Orleans on Friday (July 5) featured a star-studded lineup, but Lil Wayne was notably absent from the group performance. He appeared separately, performing for about 20 minutes starting around 1:30 AM local time, and was not seen backstage with the group. This separation hints at ongoing issues within the camp, which might be logistical or perhaps driven by lingering tensions.
The Cash Money reunion saw appearances from former New Orleans mayor Marc Morial, who presented a National Urban League proclamation to Cash Money co-boss Ronald Williams, Birdman’s brother. Recently, Birdman and Ronald were honored with a street naming ceremony in their city. The live performance included acts from Juvenile, Mannie Fresh, Birdman (Stunna), B.G., The LOX, Bun B, Scarface, and 2 Chainz. Turk, another Hot Boys member, hinted at “business” issues preventing his appearance, raising further questions about internal conflicts.
Lil Wayne kicked off his solo set with “Uproar,” proclaiming, “My name is Tunechi. I’m here on behalf of Young Money f***ing Records,” clearly distancing himself from his former Cash Money affiliation. Young Money members joined him to perform “Every Girl,” after which he left the stage before Birdman, Mannie Fresh, and B.G. returned for the Big Tymers’ “Still Fly.” This move suggests that Weezy remains outside the loop of the Cash Money reunion or possibly chose to stay away from it.
During the performance, Birdman reflected emotionally on his past and the loss of his mother, Ms. Gladys. “Every day I did this st it was painful for me, because I lost Ms. Gladys as a youngster and I never recovered from that,” he shared. “I was just trying to bless some young nas who were headed in the direction I was headed. I swear to God on everything I love, and I love nothing more than Ms. Gladys, I would never let my city down and be a py a n***a for nobody.”
Lil Wayne’s decision to perform separately highlights ongoing rifts within the Cash Money camp, leaving fans wondering about the future of their reunions.
Artist Spotlight
“Rainbow Family” by Dryadic evokes a luminous folk-pop anthem of mutual bonding

“Rainbow Family” is a hallmark composition by the folk ensemble Dryadic, co-founded by Zora McDonald and Joanna Dziecelska, who previously achieved acclaim with The Tatsmiths. Since its establishment in 2017, Dryadic has cultivated a singular sonic identity that resonates profoundly with individuals who identify as outsiders. This track is a mesmerizing tribute to the resilience of interpersonal bonds forged through adversity, focusing on themes of chosen families, misfits, and unanticipated communities articulated in a sonic landscape that feels particularly poignant on a chilly evening.
Composed during a lockdown period, Zora McDonald conceived “Rainbow Family” while living on a canal boat in rural Gloucestershire. The piece delves into the transformative aspects of isolation and the pursuit of solace amidst trying circumstances. The single’s introduction features a complex melodic framework that gradually envelops the listener within a rich acoustic tapestry. The instrumental is meticulously constructed, incorporating intricate fiddle lines, a grounding double bass, and stomp percussion that evoke a dynamic sense of motion akin to a flowing river.
Lyrically, the song is steeped in authenticity, effectively capturing the intricate nature of human connections within a fragmented social milieu. Zora’s heart-soaring vocal execution showcases vulnerability and assertiveness, imbuing each lyric with considerable emotional resonance. The accompanying music video, highlighting members of her queer community, visually reinforces the thematic core of love, resilience, and chosen kinship.
Musically, Dryadic draws from an eclectic array of influences, notably the stylistic echoes of artists like The Levellers, while weaving elements of European folk traditions into their compositional approach. This intermingling demonstrates how folk music transcends temporal constraints, embodying narratives that reflect historical inclusivity and evolving cultural stories. “Rainbow Family” emerges as a meticulously crafted anthem for marginalized communities, inviting listeners to unite, celebrate shared identities, and collaboratively foster a sense of belonging. This track is a must-listen for those seeking deeper connections within their communities, embodying the notion of finding a home through one another.
For more information about Dryadic, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Dryadic’s “Rainbow Family“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Dryadic | Instagram | Facebook |
Indie
Catlea stirs an anthemic fiery of love and self-discovery in her recent release “Why Them?”

Something is intoxicating about how indie pop artist Catlea evokes a mesmerizing anthem of self-discovery with her hypnotic latest single, “Why Them?” Written by Dylan Skylar Rippe and produced by Jason Boshoff, the track dives headfirst into the intricacies of love, exploring themes of jealousy and the ever-complicated journey of self-evolution. The result is a stunning emotional whirlwind that resonates with many.
From the first pulsating beat, “Why Them?” captures the audience’s attention and refuses to let go. Catlea’s voice smolders and soars in equal measure, delivering a relatable and deeply personal narrative about love, confusion, and the universal struggle of finding oneself amid romantic chaos.
The production, split between Cincinnati and Barcelona, is sleek and dynamic, with driving beats that mirror the track’s restless energy. The song’s pulsating rhythm and infectious melodies are irresistibly catchy, and her sensual yet vulnerable vocal delivery glides effortlessly over the vibrant instrumentals, allowing listeners to feel every word. Catlea masterfully portrays the push and pull of tumultuous relationships, where insecurity and longing battle for control.
Lyrically, “Why Them?” is both introspective and anthemic. It questions the wisdom of directing affection toward someone else when you desperately need to understand yourself first. The song is a flicker of frustration and aching desire for clarity, culminating in an empowering statement of self-reliance. It resonates with anyone learning to prioritize themselves, especially after a challenging breakup.
If you’ve ever felt lost in love or overwhelmed by emotional uncertainty, “Why Them?” is your new anthem. Through this release, Catlea continues to demonstrate that she is not merely making music; she is crafting moments of truth wrapped in unforgettable melodies that last long after the last note fades.
For more information about Catlea, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Catlea’s “Why Them?“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Catlea | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | Facebook |
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