Music

Russ Resurrects BET’s ‘Rap City’ In His ‘Who Wants What’ Video With Ab-Soul

Even Big Tigger makes an appearance to react to some of the harder-hitting punchlines. …

For a certain generation of hip-hop heads, BET’s Rap City (and later, Rap City: Tha Basement) were staples in their diet of new rap videos. New Jersey rapper Russ, who is promoting a star-studded new EP titled Chomp, resurrects the nostalgic Basement Booth set — complete with a cameo from Big Tigger(!) — for his first video from the EP, “Who Wants What” featuring Ab-Soul.

Russ provides a nostalgic, crate-digging beat reminiscent of the early ’90s New York hip-hop heyday as he and Ab-Soul roam the booth with a classic set-up from Big Tigger. During his verse, Russ throws a subtle salute to Cam’ron, whose money-counting antics during his 2001 freestyle became a fan-favorite and a lasting image in the minds of hip-hop fans who continue to share grainy videos of it on social media to this day.

Ab-Soul does what he came to do as well, spitting a ferocious flurry of punchlines that will leave permanent fingerprints on rewind buttons everywhere (I know how dated that reference is but, in this case, it works). The video is also cleverly mixed so that the track continues to play even as we get to listen in to Tigger’s reactions to some of the juicier lines.

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Russ teased Chomp via Instagram yesterday, sharing a tracklist that includes Benny The Butcher, Black Thought, Busta Rhymes, DJ Premier, and Kxng Crooked. No release date was shared but such a tape could go a long way toward revamping — or at least justifying — Russ’ holier-than-thou image.

Watch the “Who Wants What” video above.

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Artist Spotlight

Alwyn Morrison scales through with new single “Chained”

Alwyn Morrison’s new single, “Chained,” hits hard with its heartfelt message, offering an honesty rare in music today. Written while he was flying to Europe, this song comes from deeply personal experiences and showcases Alwyn’s most vulnerable side yet.

Teaming up with his longtime friend Michael Ales for songwriting and working with producer Michael Carey in Los Angeles, Alwyn creates a sound that feels both rich and simple. The guitar-driven music is full of warmth, exhaustion, and hope.

“Chained” plunges into the complex realities of loving someone who struggles with depression. Alwyn beautifully captures the heavy feelings that come with it, expressing the helplessness, loyalty, and quiet sadness often accompanying such love. His lyrics paint a vivid picture, inviting you to share the emotional journey of navigating the hidden struggles that can tie two people together.

The track’s raw honesty resonates with anyone who has faced challenges in love. It reminds us that sometimes love means standing by someone going through tough times. In “Chained,” Alwyn Morrison captures real human experiences and turns them into music that sticks with you.

For more information about Alwyn Morrison, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Alwyn Morrison’s “Chained” on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Alwyn Morrison | Instagram | Facebook |

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Artist Spotlight

Ava Valianti turns self-doubt into art with “Laugh Track”

In her new single, “Laugh Track,” Ava Valianti takes us on a peculiar journey through her thoughts and feelings, which many can connect to. With a mix of dark humor and raw honesty, Ava shares her experience of feeling like life is more of a series of awkward moments rather than a smooth story where she’s the star.

Drawing inspiration from movies and shows that explore deep emotions, like The Truman Show and How I Met Your Mother’s Ted Mosby, “Laugh Track” captures the unsettling feeling of always being on stage, even when nobody’s watching. It resounds with anyone who has sat alone and questioned whether the laughter around them is meant for them or at their expense.

The song combines deeper sounds with a light, catchy vibe, making its heavy themes approachable enough for dancing. Ava’s voice is strong and open, giving each line an authentic feeling that hits home.

“Laugh Track” is a stand-out because it embraces chaos. Ava doesn’t wrap up her insecurity and self-doubt in a tidy package. Instead, she celebrates the messiness of life and finds comfort in the imperfect characters we often see on TV and in ourselves. “Laugh Track” mirrors our experiences. Like the best comedy shows, it makes you laugh, feel uncomfortable, and reminds you that you’re not alone in your struggles.

For more information about Ava Valianti, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Ava Valianti’s “Dreaming“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Ava Valianti | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook |