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T.I. Explains Defending His Catalog Against 50 Cent “Verzuz” Trolls
The second season of Verzuz is upon us, but until the powers that be give us more information about what to expect, we’ll just have to make do with the mysterious posts from Swizz Beatz and Timbaland. The pandemic made 2020 a cluster as everyone globally grasped at some sense of normalcy, but one thing that seemed to bring people together was music. DJs spun in late-night jam sessions, artists performed at-home concerts, and Verzuz matched up some of our favorite entertainers in a way that had never been done before. Plenty of artists have thrown their hats into the ring as they’ve called for their turn on Verzuz, including T.I. who recently engaged in a war of words with 50 Cent.
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It’s unclear if the two music icons will face off on the popular online series, but T.I. spoke with The Breakfast Club about his motivation behind the request. “Don’t let nobody talk you out of your victory. If you lose, let it be because you showed up and got beat. Don’t beat yourself [and] don’t let nobody else beat you with they opinion,” said T.I.
The rap mogul spoke directly about trolls and naysayers who came after his catalog once he challenged Fif. “There were people who said, ‘Who’s ever asked to put on T.I.?’ Yo mama. And that n*gga that thought enough of her to nut in her. That’s who said, ‘Let’s play some T.I.’ They only feel that way because in their young lives, what have I done beside from be on their television and social activism.” While we await news on T.I.’s potential Verzuz appearance, check out his interview below.
Artist Spotlight
Billy Chuck Da Goat finds his flow on new release “Vibez”
Billy Chuck Da Goat’s latest release, “Vibez,” has a laid-back, hypnotic bounce that makes it easy to listen to without ever feeling empty. It makes a place where calmness and quiet confidence come together.
“Vibez” was made on purpose, but it also sounds simple. Billy Chuck’s smooth delivery flows through the production without rushing or pushing anything. Instead, he lets the rhythm breathe, allowing people to get into the song at their own pace. This laid-back energy is the best part of the song, nothing feels forced, which is exactly what it’s trying to do.
The track changes to fit whatever you need it for, like a late-night drive, a focused workout, or a way to unwind after a long day. It has a quiet edge of confidence, it’s not loud or bragging, but it’s steady and sure of itself.
Connect with Billy Chuck Da Goat on Spotify || Instagram || Facebook || Youtube
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François Marius and Bérénice creates a tender acoustic pop confession with “Billie Jean”
François Marius’ latest release, “Billie Jean (Acoustic Version),” cuts to the quick and lets raw emotion take over. What you get, ultimately, is a personal pop experience that feels closer to a secret than to either a spoken-word show or a performance. The initial soft strum of an acoustic guitar creates a mood that is soft, sweet, and quietly interesting. It’s a full-throated, backbones-out piece, and every note is screaming its potential. It’s simple but riveting, and it proves that sometimes less is more.
François Marius and Bérénice’s voices sound right together, their voicings intermingle so naturally that they seem accidental or spontaneous, harmonies that emerge from nowhere. The way they speak to one another is very, I mean, they really love each other. That even makes the track seem like a conversation about feelings.
The two artists are clearly close. Romance and Eros are not just ideas, and they inhabit every note that lingers and every minuscule shift in tonality. The harmonies soar effortlessly over the acoustic foundation, a blend of sweetness and strength. It’s a sign of strength and also of a willingness to be hurt.
“Billie Jean (Acoustic Version)” is stripped of any fancy production or theatrical effects, it wins you over with its frankness and forthrightness. Sandy François Marius’s impersonation is fresh and real, endowed with depth and softness thanks to Bérénice’s presence, which definitely makes everything more perfect. This acoustic performance serves as a stark reminder of the elements that do connect people: the singer, his guitar, and a story from the heart.
Connect with François Marius on Spotify || Instagram || Facebook || Youtube || Twitter || Soundcloud
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