Category: live blogs

Jenso ‘JP’ Plymouth, a Haitian American producer/ engineer hailing from Brockton, Massachusetts, has left an notable mark on the music industry. With numerous industry-level placements alongside well-known artists, including Chris Brown’s 11:11 project that dropped 11/10, JP’s journey from his humble beginnings in Brockton to his current residence in California is a testament to his unwavering dedication to music.

The Brockton native’s introduction to music came through learning to play the guitar and piano. His early experiences with these instruments ignited his creative spark, as he began composing his own music at the tender age of six or seven. Even at such a young age, he demonstrated a natural inclination for music, experimenting with songwriting and playing the guitar, laying the foundation for his future career.

JP’s journey into the music industry took a significant step forward when he began working with local artists in Massachusetts. Among the artists he collaborated with Alan, a talent from Milton, and Bobby Brown Jr, son of the famous Bobby Brown, stood out. These collaborations marked the beginning of his professional career, with JP sending beats and recording songs for these artists. It was with artists like these that he developed his skills, nurtured his creative talents, and cultivated the relationships that would prove essential in his journey.

In his pursuit of a career in music, JP decided to move to New York, enrolling at St. John’s University to get closer to the heart of the music industry. His time at St. John’s provided the necessary proximity to the industry that would shape his future. His educational background in business also provided a solid foundation for his future endeavors in the music world.

St. John’s University played a pivotal role, serving as a springboard for JP’s career. It was being in New York where he got his opportunity to intern at Crosby Collective Recording Studios. JP worked his way up at the studio and eventually moved to California on the studio’s behalf and landed his first big break .

His first big placement was on Young Thug’s “So Much Fun” and “Slime Language 2”. These accomplishments catapulted his career to new heights, cementing his position as a sought-after producer in the industry.

During JP’s time at Crosby Collective Recording Studios, he assumed various responsibilities, including hospitality, maintenance, customer service, and inventory management. At this studio JP had the opportunity to study the main engineer, gaining valuable insights into the intricacies of the trade.

JP worked his way up from intern to studio manager at Crosby’s New York location. His dedication and passion for music led to an enduring relationship with the studios, where he continues to collaborate with them at their California branch, crediting the studio for securing many of his placements as part of the team. Those placements include works from Rich The Kid, DaniLeigh, Ciara, Chris Brown and more.

JP’s journey is a testament to the advice he now offers to aspiring musicians: study music, seek mentors, learn from experienced professionals, and find your place within the music community. His dedication and persistence have allowed him to thrive in a competitive industry.

The seasoned producer mentioned that his favorite part of making music is witnessing the creative process from start to finish. He finds inspiration in those moments when the music flows effortlessly, with little effort, turning the studio into a realm of artistic brilliance.

Looking back on his journey, JP would advise his younger self to focus on honing his musical craft and building a personal brand early on, emphasizing the importance of personal and artistic growth.

While California is now his home, JP returns to Massachusetts occasionally to visit family and celebrate the holidays. He takes pride in the fact that his home state is increasingly making an impact on the music industry. He salutes fellow artists like Lord Felix and the Van Buren team from Brockton, as well as Bia, who have all been making waves on the music scene. Jenso ‘JP’ Plymouth’s remarkable journey from Brockton to California stands as a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of one’s dreams in the music industry.

Boston’s live music scene in 2023 has been a melting pot of diverse sounds and genres, and two recent shows highlighted the vibrant creativity within black music. Afro beats artist Bnxn, formerly known as Buju, and the rising star Sexxy Red brought their unique styles to separate stages, proving that the city’s music scene is as eclectic as ever.

Bnxn, with his charismatic and smooth delivery, took the stage at The Sinclair in Cambridge on October 17. The event was organized by Ethio Boys Ent and MTP Management, with music provided by the talented DJ King Collins and DJ Wonka. Despite being low-key, the night was a treat for all attendees.

The crowd at The Sinclair was treated to an array of songs by Bnxn, showcasing the artist’s Afro beats sound and his ability to connect with the audience. Bnxn’s performance was a testament to the power of international music, demonstrating the global appeal of Afro beats and its influence on the Boston music scene.

On the other end of the spectrum, Sexxy Red brought an entirely different vibe to Boston’s live music scene. Her show at the Paradise Rock Club was a high-profile affair, drawing crowds from all corners of the city. The “Pound Town” lyricist arrived in all her pregnant glory, and the audience was ecstatic to welcome her.

Sexxy Red’s performance was a testament to her star power and the impact she’s had on the music industry. The audience enthusiastically sang along to her legendary tracks, creating an electric atmosphere in the venue. Her Boston show served as the kickoff for her 24-show tour, setting the bar high for the rest of her performances.

In a surprising twist, Sexxy Red also brought out “Area Code” rapper Kalii, who was fresh off a tour with A Boogie wit da Hoodie and Toosii. This unexpected collaboration added an extra layer of excitement to the already dynamic performance.

Both Bnxn and Sexxy Red represent the rich diversity of black music in 2023, each with their unique style and appeal. Boston’s music scene is thriving, with artists like these two setting the stage for a year filled with unforgettable performances.

As we continue to witness the state of black music in Boston, we’re excited to see what the future holds. With such remarkable shows in the area, it’s clear that the city’s live music scene is on the rise. Stay tuned for more updates and explore the sounds of Boston as they evolve and captivate audiences with their diversity.

BNXN Photo cred: @arsalaanishaq 📸

SEXXY RED Photo cred: @50cal_turf 📸

On the evening of Friday, October 6th, Road Runner Boston became the epicenter of Boston’s vibrant music scene, thanks to the skillful hands of DJ Ricky Felixx, who kicked off the night with an electrifying opening set.
The stage was set, the crowd was buzzing with anticipation, and a lineup of talented artists was ready to deliver an unforgettable performance. Vasjan, a rising star in the Boston music scene, was the first to take center stage, and from there, the night only soared to greater heights.

What followed was a mesmerizing showcase of Boston’s finest artists, each bringing their unique flavor to the stage and leaving the audience craving for more. Vasjan, not one to disappoint, brought out some of his talented friends, including Lord Ju, Big Sosa, and Yaya Gabbana, creating an electric atmosphere that set the tone for the night.

The Gorgeous Gangster, Lord Ju, not content with just being a guest, later rocked her own set, showcasing her individual prowess and captivating the crowd. Per usual she killed her set and had everyone paying attention. Ju has been making her own noise as she just signed to Jim Jones’ Vamp Life Records. We are excited to see what she is cooking up and has in store for the fans.

 Rebel Mafia’s Brandon James Big Super, Kye Bills, and Messy Money Sav followed, reaffirming the tight-knit bond and immense talent within the Rebel Mafia family. This squad of four consist of 3 siblings and a fourth wheel being Kye Bills. Their hardcore lyrics, beat selection and stage presences left the audience wondering about where they can find more of their music. We have featured interviews with Big Super and Kye Bills in the past. Hopefully in the future we’ll have the chance to link up with Messy Money Sav and Brandon James, the two other members.

Each opening act added their own flair to the evening. Rising Mission Hill artist King Brickz took the stage alongside 8Zipp and a live band. His set was impressive as he went through a host of songs with the Frank Beats band supporting his vocals in the background. It was dope to see 8Zipp in action as it was our first time seeing him perform. Zipp is a star in the city that has been making some noise for sometime now. He’s an artist we definitely like to interview.

Besides 8Zipp, Bricks brought out a couple artist to perform on his set. Those artist include Grimey Gurt, GBGFLEE and Annunciation Blue. King Brickz’s regal performance left a lasting impression, not to mention he brought his whole court (aka his hood) with him. The set was impressive and entertaining to watch, we are looking forward to see the direction King Brickz goes with his career.

Brickz set was championed by JAMN 94.5’s DJ E Dubble, who made his unwavering support for Brickz known.

DJ Foreign, another talented DJ from JAMN 94.5, kept the energy high and the ladies hyped with his electrifying set. He even treated the audience to a twerk contest, ensuring that the party atmosphere was in full swing.

The headline acts didn’t disappoint either. Luh Tyler, a young and swaggy trap artist, effortlessly delivered his nonchalant yet captivating songs, leaving the crowd in awe. He moved across the stage grace and poise as he delivered his unorthodox flows and hard knocking beats. The crowd stared backed at him performing with a reaction that was hard to put a finger on. It was a mix of bewilderment and amazement, lol. Not exactly sure but it definitely was a pleasure to see Luh Tyler in person and get an idea of where his sound is coming from.


The Super Smash Bros, known for their afrobeats vibe, switched gears to cater to the trap scene of the night and kept the audience engaged while the anticipation for the main event built. Their set kept the party going with great tracks and high energy engagements with the crowd. The Brothers kept the crowd entertained and hyped as they were a great precursor to the main event.

And then, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived – Atlanta’s trap legend, Gucci Mane, took the stage. Mr. Woptober himself delivered a performance for the ages, blending classic tracks that long-time fans adore with his latest and biggest hits, including the crowd-favorite ‘Both’ featuring Drake.

It seemed like clock work 1017 general. Gucci’s performance was high packed and well polished. He performed with much ease and seemed to be in his mode the whole night.

Gucci Mane’s presence was electrifying, and he left no doubt that he still reigns supreme in the world of trap music.

Kudos to Cedar Tree Entertainment for orchestrating such a fantastic show, and a big shoutout to everyone who came out to vibe and support the artists. Special thanks to the talented photographer Corey (@madeby.rts on IG) for capturing the night’s memorable moments through his lens.

The show at Road Runner Boston on October 6th was a testament to the thriving music scene in Boston, featuring a mix of local underground stars, a promising young talent in Luh Tyler, and the trap legend himself, Gucci Mane. It was a night that showcased the diversity and dynamism of the music community in Boston, leaving everyone in attendance with lasting memories and a desire for more.

In the vibrant city of Toronto, where art and culture thrive, a rising star has emerged in the world of photography. At the young age of 26, Sinthia has already made a significant impact in the world of visual storytelling. We had the opportunity to sit down with this talented photographer to delve into her journey, experiences, and aspirations.

A Remarkable Start

Sinthia’s journey into photography began just over a year ago, in March, to be precise. Remarkably, in this short span of time, she has achieved a level of expertise that would make one believe she’s been in the field for years. What’s her secret? Well, her background in painting and her unique approach to networking.

Before transitioning to photography, Sinthia had a deep-rooted passion for painting, and her journey into the art world started as early as nine years old. However, it was during the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 that she decided to take her artistry more seriously. Sinthia gained recognition by creating intricate paintings that caught the attention of artists such as Pink Sweats, 070 Shake, and Nav, leading to unique opportunities and collaborations.

From Canvas to Camera

Sinthia’s artistry soon extended beyond painting. She transitioned into concert photography, and her journey took an exciting turn. Her love for live music and her knack for capturing the essence of these performances led her to a new passion. Sinthia’s ability to convey the emotions and energy of live concerts through her lens is nothing short of captivating.

Her approach to concert photography is unique. She doesn’t just capture the artists on stage; she captures the entire experience—the connection between fans and musicians, the raw emotions, and the unity that live music brings. Sinthia’s work provides a window into the soul of these performances.

Artistic Inspiration and Aspirations

When asked about her artistic influences, Sinthia mentioned her admiration for The Weeknd. Hailing from Scarborough, Toronto, just like The Weeknd, she feels a special connection to his music and success story. Covering a show by The Weeknd is a dream for Sinthia, one that she hopes to fulfill in the future.

Advice for Aspiring Photographers

Sinthia’s journey from painting to concert photography is a testament to her determination and passion. Her advice for aspiring photographers is simple yet profound: Just do it. Whether you’re starting with a phone camera or professional equipment, building a portfolio is essential. Don’t hesitate to send those emails, reach out to artists and managers, and put yourself out there. Success may take time, but it’s the shots you don’t take that you’ll regret.

Looking Ahead

In the next five years, Sinthia envisions herself traveling the world, capturing the magic of music festivals and shows in different countries. She hopes to turn her passion for photography into a full-time career, leaving her part-time nursing profession behind. Her goal is to immerse herself in diverse music cultures and share her unique perspective with the world.

Sinthia’s journey from painting to concert photography is a remarkable testament to the power of following one’s passion. Her story is not only an inspiration to budding photographers but also a celebration of the vibrant arts scene in Toronto. We can’t wait to see where her lens takes her next and the incredible stories she’ll continue to tell through her photography.

In the heart of Boston’s City Hall Plaza, a rhythmic storm of beats and lyrics recently swept through the city, celebrating the essence of hip-hop culture. GLD FSTVL, a one-of-a-kind event, paid homage to the genre’s rich history while showcasing the talents of both emerging and established artists. With soulful performances and a true boom-bap feel, it was a fitting celebration for the 50th year of hip-hop’s enduring legacy.

The lineup for GLD FSTVL was nothing short of extraordinary, featuring a diverse array of hip-hop artists. The stage came alive with the likes of Oompa, Latrell James, Van Buren Records, STL GLD, Donald Grunge, KEI, Billy Dean Thomas, Dead Prez, and headliner Earth Gang. Each artist brought their unique style and lyrical prowess to the forefront, captivating the audience with their powerful performances.

 
It wasn’t just the artists who stole the show; the local DJs spinning the beats added an extra layer of energy to the event. DJ E Dubble, renowned for his work with JAMN 945, DJ Why Sham, DJ Split Wax, and DJ Bobby Bangers kept the crowd grooving throughout the day. Their skillful mixing and track selection added to the authenticity of the event.

While the music was undoubtedly the star of the show, GLD FSTVL also had something for everyone. Vendors lined the venue, offering attendees the opportunity to purchase hip-hop-inspired swag and other goods. From SparkFm to Jas Joyeria and Sewpreme Seams, there was a wide array of unique and stylish merchandise to choose from, allowing fans to take a piece of the festival home with them.

No festival is complete without delicious food, and GLD FSTVL didn’t disappoint. Food trucks lined the perimeter, serving up a delectable variety of dishes and refreshing beverages. Whether you were craving classic comfort food or exploring culinary delights, there was something to satisfy every palate.

Behind the scenes, producer Val Bee played a pivotal role in bringing GLD FSTVL to life. Her dedication and tireless efforts were evident in the event’s success. It’s thanks to her passion for hip-hop and her commitment to celebrating the genre that this festival became a reality, allowing fans and artists to come together in the name of music and culture.

As the sun set over City Hall Plaza, and the music continued to echo through the city, it was clear that GLD FSTVL had made its mark on Boston. It was more than just a music festival; it was a tribute to the roots of hip-hop and a celebration of its vibrant future. For those in attendance, it was an unforgettable experience that showcased the power of music to bring people together, transcending boundaries and uniting souls in the name of hip-hop. Kudos to Val Bee and everyone involved for creating a truly remarkable event that will be remembered for years to come.

Photo cred: @ya__z @nephshooter 📸 📷

Rolling Loud Miami 2023, held amid a year of struggling chart positions for Hip-hop, proved to be a triumphant testament to the genre’s enduring dominance and widespread appeal.

With an electrifying lineup featuring iconic artists like TRIPPY RED, DON T’OLIVER, NLE CHOPPA, THE CITY GIRLS, KODAK BLACK, LIL TJAY, A$AP ROCKY, TRAVIS SCOTT, LIL UZI VERT, and more, the festival treated fans to an unforgettable experience.
Despite a decrease in attendance compared to previous years, the show’s headliners, including PLAYBOI CARTI, TRAVIS SCOTT, and A$AP ROCKY, delivered stellar performances with boundless energy and captivating stage presence. This article dives into the highlights of Rolling Loud Miami 2023 and the celebration of Hip-hop culture it offered.

In 2023, Hip-hop faced its lowest charting year in nearly a decade, raising concerns about the genre’s future. However, Rolling Loud Miami 2023 proved that Hip-hop’s influence and popularity remain unwavering. The festival served as a vibrant showcase of the genre’s resilience, featuring top-tier artists who brought their A-game to the stage and reaffirmed Hip-hop’s position at the forefront of music culture.

The star-studded lineup of Rolling Loud Miami 2023 left no room for disappointment. Fans were treated to mind-blowing sets from a diverse range of artists, each bringing their unique style and charisma to the stage.

From the explosive energy of Travis Scott to the Booty Trap party Lil Uzi Vert brought to the stage, the performances were nothing short of spectacular. The festival was a testament to the versatility and artistry within the Hip-hop genre, showcasing its ability to captivate audiences with diverse tastes.

Established in 2015, Rolling Loud has grown to become one of the world’s largest and most celebrated music festivals, and its unwavering dedication to Hip-hop sets it apart. With every passing year, the festival continues to attract music enthusiasts from around the globe, drawn to the allure of witnessing their favorite artists perform live on one stage.

While previous editions of Rolling Loud Miami boasted an estimated 210,000 attendees in 2019, the 2023 event saw a notable decrease in numbers, with around 80,000 people in attendance. Despite this decline, the passion and enthusiasm of the fans who did attend remained unwavering. The atmosphere allowed for a personal and immersive experience, forging a lasting connection between the artists and their devoted fans.

To immortalize the magic of Rolling Loud Miami 2023, the festival organizers once again provided a fantastic video recording of each performance on YouTube. This gesture allowed those unable to attend the festival in person to relish the experience virtually and witness the incredible talent on display.

Several talented photographers were present at the festival, capturing the electrifying moments on stage and the contagious energy of the crowd. Their stunning photos showcased the essence of Rolling Loud Miami 2023 and added an artistic dimension to the festival’s narrative.

Rolling Loud Miami 2023 was a triumphant celebration of Hip-hop, reaffirming its unwavering dominance in the music world. Despite a challenging year for the genre, the festival’s star-studded lineup, electrifying performances, and dedicated fans created an unforgettable experience. Rolling Loud continues to be a beacon of Hip-hop culture, uniting artists and fans alike in an annual extravaganza that celebrates the genre’s enduring legacy. As the performances and memories from this year’s event continue to circulate virally, the influence of Rolling Loud Miami 2023 will undoubtedly resonate for years to come.

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  Photos by: @selfmadedanny @jordankelseyknight @creizycrei @eyesofd2 @tonyrichhhh  @antgonz0 @illwill17 📸 📷

This summer has been filled with a myriad of cultural attractions, and one particularly exciting highlight was the release of a movie that offered a truly unique viewer experience.

Marvel has been captivating superhero fans for generations, and this year, they treated us to a sequel that felt refreshingly novel. “SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE” presented a new direction for the Marvel brand.

While this is the second film in the “SPIDER-VERSE” series, featuring Miles Morales as Spider-Man, it felt remarkably distinct from other Marvel movies. Two key components set it apart: the animation format chosen and the fact that Miles is a black superhero. Both elements are relatively new for the Marvel team, bringing a fresh tone to the screen. The movie’s marketing recognized the opportunity to connect with the urban and hip-hop market.

Enter Metro Boomin..

Miles’ character was complemented by a soundtrack that perfectly embodied the spirit of this new SPIDER-VERSE. The highly regarded and relatively young music producer, Metro Boomin, was tasked with creating a sound for Miles and the new version of Spider-Man. Though it might not seem like a big deal, it truly is. The entire movie and its packaging exude hip-hop vibes.

The film and its soundtrack served as a platform that seamlessly blurred demographic lines. Miles, a black Hispanic teen from New York, brought a captivating energy to the screen. Metro Boomin curated an eclectic group of artists, blending Hip-hop, Afrobeats, reggaeton, and pop into a brilliant album. Listening to the soundtrack, you get a sense of traversing different worlds, as it’s hard to pinpoint a single genre. The album feels fresh and timeless, appealing to audiences of all ages.

It makes you contemplate the direction of American culture as a whole. Hip-hop has undeniably dominated the charts for the past couple of decades, but witnessing its influence in the world of film is truly exhilarating. We’ve had the POWER dynasty that 50 Cent created through STARS, marking a new turning point for Hip-hop and entertainment. However, a young Black superhero’s impact feels even more profound. While the Black Panther films hinted at Marvel’s awareness of their audience’s diversity, these Spider-Man movies further emphasize how dominant Hip-hop has become.

The soundtrack mainly features Hip-hop artists in their mid-20s. In contrast to Miles, who is 14, the music bridges the gap to connect with an older audience, making the movie even more appealing and offering a fresh experience, unlike anything previously released.

It truly feels like a new era is being ushered in—one that is more free, relaxed, and expressive. “SPIDER-MAN: ACROSS THE SPIDER-VERSE” was an exhilarating thrill that’s definitely worth experiencing. Kudos to Metro Boomin for providing a timeless album that all ages and demographics can enjoy. If you haven’t yet, we highly suggest you tune in and immerse yourself in the SPIDEY-VERSE and all its cultural richness!

Photos provided by @shotby_daniel 📸 📷

Drake had the entire city buzzing this week as his “It Was All Blur” tour made its mark in Boston. Tickets were expensive, but people from all over the region flocked to witness the 6 God’s performance.

The set design was simple yet visually stunning, leaving a lasting impression. With the BackOutsideBoyz by his side, Drake had everyone hyped and clearly at the peak of his career.
Of course, what’s a Drake show without the ladies going crazy for the Certified Lover Boy? Even those who couldn’t attend the concert caught glimpses through social media, as timelines were flooded with posts from the event.

The Canadian rapper graced Boston with his presence for two consecutive nights, giving those with excuses a chance to see him. The entire city seemed to revolve around Drake, as everything paused for his show. In a fitting move, he brought out 21 Savage to perform a few tracks from their latest project, “Her Loss.”

Boston marked the tour’s third stop, and Drake didn’t hesitate to show his appreciation for the city. On the first day, he had a doll, mistaken for a hologram, donning a Red Sox jersey, while he wore a Bruins’ jersey on the second day. He even had Jason Tatum emerge from the tunnel with him, driving the crowd wild.

The icing on the cake was Drake’s heartfelt story about performing at UMASS Lowell nearly two decades ago for just $1,200! He even wore the hoodie seen in Rihanna’s “What’s My Name” video.

The concert itself featured flying objects that heightened the experience. Drake had a flying UFO, a Grim Reaper figure, and a twerking, partially naked woman suspended in the air during parts of the show. It evoked a similar vibe to Meek Mill’s concert at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn a few years ago, blended with some of Kanye West’s iconic stage performances. It’s safe to say Drake learns from his rivals.

In any case, it was an incredible show. And while everyone went wild for it, it’s worth noting that T-Pain and Afrobeats sensation Davido were also in town this week, attracting sizable crowds to their respective concerts.

We wish Drake and the entire OVO team the best for the rest of the tour! We’re sure there will be more unforgettable moments and massive successes to come. “Six God lurkin’… come out that booth and bring that energy in person.”

photo credits goes to @photobyastral 📸 📷

Over the past few years, the Boston community has shown a united effort to promote culture and social activities. This article focuses on the 14 League and the individuals driving this movement.

As Boston undergoes physical changes, its culture is also evolving. The emergence of new venues and nightclubs in the seaport area exemplifies the fresh vibes in Boston. It appears that the city is actively appealing to young adults to make the town more dynamic and captivating.

This summer, numerous events are taking place, including festivals, concerts, nightlife, and sporting events. The city seems dedicated to catering to the overall cultural scene in town.

While Boston has always been known for its competitive sports teams, Aiden Marshall, Trey Davis and Marcus Smart are revolutionizing the scene with a unique sporting event for the city.

The first tournament of the 14 League took place this past weekend. The league offers a fresh take on competitive basketball, attracting professionals from various backgrounds within the sport to compete for a $20,000 prize. We had the opportunity to interview Aiden Marshall, one of the people responsible for organizing the event. He shared some insights about himself and explained the motivation behind the tournament.

Aiden hails from Marlborough, MA, a town near Boston, where his love for basketball developed. As a youngster, he played for the local AAU team and occasionally volunteered for tasks like keeping score.
His passion for the sport extended to basketball apparel and fashion. By the time Aidan reached high school, he was designing custom sneakers for his classmates and anyone interested. This trade honed Aiden’s business acumen.

Aiden’s custom sneakers opened doors for him to collaborate with prominent sneaker boutiques in Boston, such as Concepts. Through partnerships, Aiden expanded his craft beyond the local community and into the broader Boston area.

Through his sneaker ventures and his passion for basketball, Aiden had the opportunity to meet Trey Davis, a Texas native, European basketball player and founder of YGC Global. Aiden met Trey while he was at the University of Massachusetts.
YGC Global is a clothing brand that emerged during the Covid epidemic. The aim of the brand is to connect people through basketball and fashion. Marcus Smart, a former Celtics player, joined forces with Trey in this endeavor. Smart uses the full acronym as his Instagram handle @youngamechanger. 

During a trip to New York’s legendary Rucker Park, where they attended the annual TBT Tournament, the trio felt inspired to bring a similar event back to Boston. Combining Trey’s love for the sport, Marcus’ NBA exposure, and Aiden’s business savvy, the trio conceived The 14 League. The number 14 holds significance because 6+1+7 (Boston’s area code?) equals 14, and Marcus Smart was drafted in 2014.

The inaugural 14 League tournament took place on July 1st and 2nd at the Dana Barros Basketball Gym in Stoughton, MA. While basketball was the central focus, Aiden was keen on incorporating music and fashion into the show. One of the 14 League’s main objectives was to connect people not only through sports but also through music and fashion.

The event was hosted by the charismatic Herv Gotti (@successismycologne) and Chin (@chingotjuice). DJ Famous (@musicbyfamous) provided the music, and the lineup included acts such as AVENUE (@avenueblvd), MS. $PEAKS (@nay-speaks), LUKE BARS (@lukebars), MOSA (@heartbreakmosa), and KEI (@keiweifruit).

Overall, the event was a resounding success, offering entertainment and a platform for networking and connecting with others. Aiden shared some plans for next year and left us with the impression that the 14 League is just getting started and will continue providing more events for the community in the future!

We’d like to congratulate Aiden and his team for coming up with the idea and putting together their first successful tournament. We are excited about the direction the city is going in are looking forward to seeing what the 14 League as in store for the community!

Shout out to @emartinezflics, @sjp2ca_lowermills, @50cal_tur for the great flicks of the event! 💯💯🎞️📸

Catherine T. Morris has done it again by putting together Boston Arts & Music Soul festival for the fifth consecutive year. This time around BAMSfest was ment with rain showers, ponchos and a healthy crowd of people from all over.

Vendors, musical acts and an audience alike came to Franklin Park to enjoy the festivities. The crowd was a diverse group of wellness and cultural fans coming to enjoy themselves in a celebration of community and joy.

The whole festival went from Thursday June 23 to Saturday the 24th, both days at Franklin park. The festival hosted vendors of all ages and genres, dance workshops, sponsored drinks, two stages with back to back acts and food trucks, and that’s just to name a few attractions.
Can’t forget the kids zone where parents could leave kids to play under supervision and the street artists that we’re creating murals throughout the event.

BAMSfest is not only a festival but also a non-profit that is focused on helping black individuals and organizations make it through hardships and attempting to “create ‘a knowledge-passing mechanism’ between Boston artist [installing] a sense of community and solidity” as Julian E.J. Sorapuru described in The Boston Globe.
It is said that thousands of artists apply to perform at BAMSfest every year but only a few out of the thousands are chosen.

This years artist included Nate Nics, kei, and Notebook P., The Visionaries, Tori Tori, headliner Grand Master Flash and more!

Kara Elliott-Ortega from the mayor’s chief arts and culture office said, “spaces aren’t truly public until we feel welcome there, like we can be ourselves, and truly relax and enjoy each other and our culture. BAMS is actively creating that sense of belonging.”

The crowd was a good sport as they communed together in commerce and beverage, ponchos out and all. Climax of the night is when DJ GRAND MASTER FLASH blared ‘Can I kick it?!’ Through the speakers.
Shout out to Catherine for putting together a great festival, we don’t get enough of them in the city! Big salute to @theblueprint39_ for providing the awesome pictures featured in this blog!