Billboard Billy Might Be Next to Blow from NYC with New Song, “Not My Problem”

Industry Spotlight, Single

New York’s Billboard Billy has remained pretty consistent over the years, dropping slap after slap. Today, the Dominican giant drops off his latest offering in “Not My Problem.”

Sampling Laila’s “Not My Problem” and grabbing inspo from New York heavyweight Cash Cobain, Billy and producer Stability deliver a familiar yet dope laid back track to vibe to. 

“Song was inspired by artist named Laila! and Cash Cobain..I’m all for the new sexy drill scene, it has a twist of new age jazz and trap,” Billy shares with us. 

Stream the viral track via Soundcloud below!

Song Link: https://soundcloud.com/billybanksss/billboardbilly-not-my-problem

Connect with Billboard Billy:

Instagram / YouTube / Photos 

ABOUT:

Born in the Dominican Republic, raised in Queens, NY (South Jamaica) rapper, producer, and engineer Billboard Billy has been steadily making a name for himself since 2017. 

At first, living in NYC was a culture shock but Billy and his family knew they had to adapt to life in the concrete jungle quickly. In NYC, Billy learned that he would need to hustle hard to make it out of his gritty environment. Often mistaken for a professional ball player, Billy stands at 6’8 feet tall. At a young age, Billy was known in his hood as the kid talented at basketball. From making  layups to laying vocals down, Billy’s first introduction to music was at the age of 11 playing with instruments. 

Present day, Billboard Billy is known for his melodic, catchy hooks and versatile rap style. With thousands of streams across his songs and videos and features on Daily Loud, Respect Magazine, Daily Chiefers, and more, Billy has not let his foot off the gas, dropping over a dozen songs this year alone. 

“2 DOOR” is one of Billy’s most popular songs, and perfectly captures his care-free, yet candid style of music. He is sure to be an artist on your radar in 2025.

Introducing Rising 14 year Old Freshman Tashawn Fambro Jr from Northeast Ohio

Industry Spotlight

Check out 14 year old Tashawn Fambro Jr from Warren, Ohio. This 6’5′ emerging freshman has been creating a buzz. Since the season started, the Howland Tigers have started the new power forward. One of the highlights is his 22 point, 11 rebound, 10 assists game against the Boardman Spartans, the young power has begun to gain the attention from teams across the state of Ohio. Looking up to star players like Lebron James, Anthony Edwards, Kyrie Irving, and Kevin Durant you can see how they have inspired his game. In his spare time Tashawn likes to play video games, some of his favorite games are NBA 2K, Madden, and Rainbow Six Siege. In the next 5 years he would like to play college basketball for some of his favorite schools like Ohio State, Duke, North Carolina, and Michigan . Growing up playing in the Boys and Girls Club Fambro Jr has a giving heart so it’s important for him to always give back to his community.

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Artist Spotlight: Zieta Eve – A Journey of Growth, Love, and Unapologetic Self-Expression

Industry Spotlight

Hailing from the vibrant streets of Queens, New York, Zieta Eve is carving her path in the music world with a blend of authenticity, versatility, and raw emotion. Inspired by legends like Hayley Williams, Alicia Keys, Madonna, Donna Summer, and Teena Marie, she effortlessly bridges the gap between timeless influences and modern innovation. Refusing to be confined to a single genre, Zieta Eve explores a dynamic range of sounds, from R&B and Afro R&B to indie rock, rap, and pop. For Zieta Eve, music is not just a craft—it’s a journey of connection, growth, and self-expression.

Her journey in music spans seven years of creating, performing, and evolving, but her connection to music has been lifelong. Zieta Eve has never shied away from challenging expectations, and her body of work reflects her relentless passion and creative fearlessness.

Zieta Eve’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary. She’s shared stages with some of the industry’s most iconic names, including Remy Ma, The Lox, Fat Joe, Jim Jones, and more during Pretty Lou’s 3rd Annual Charity Concert. Her electrifying performances have also graced Bronx Pride twice, amplifying messages of love and inclusivity. Beyond live shows, she’s made waves in the studio with a hit Gauracha track in collaboration with DJ Pereira and showcased her versatility by winning the 5BORO Showcase. Even local recognition like being named “Artist of the Week” by Saucey Pizza in Long Island City reflects the buzz surrounding her artistry.

For Zieta Eve, motherhood became the turning point in her artistry. Her upcoming project, “Love Is… V2,” is the continuation of her debut EP, “Love Is…,” and it represents her newfound confidence, personal growth, and understanding of love. Reflecting on her journey, she shares,
“The irony of dropping an EP called ‘Love Is…’ while simultaneously beginning my journey of learning what that is for myself is just perfect. My journey now understands love through motherhood as well as self-love. This is the most I’ve ever accepted myself as I am, so this project has no essence of second-guessing. It’s me in all forms—completely loved and seen by myself as my biggest critic.”

This newfound self-assurance has allowed Zieta Eve to embrace every part of herself—the vulnerable, the strong, the loving, and the unapologetically real. Her music reflects her truth, inviting listeners to connect deeply with their own stories of love, resilience, and transformation.

As 2024 comes to a close, Zieta Eve is preparing to release a special track titled “Mindless,” which she describes as a bold step into a new chapter of sound. Looking ahead to 2025, she plans to bring her vision to life with an array of creative projects. Fans can expect captivating visuals that showcase her talents in acting, dancing, and choreography, as well as intimate live productions that weave storytelling into her music. Beyond her music, Zieta Eve aims to expand her creative impact through photography, using her platform to empower women and fellow artists to build confidence and express themselves freely.

The artist attributes much of her inspiration to her 2-year-old son, Anthony Ruiz Jr., who she credits as the driving force behind her most recent work.

Zieta Eve also extends her gratitude to SwagStudios, the birthplace of “Love Is…”, and to Karel and Nicole Rogers for taking her live performances to the next level. She credits her parents for their unwavering belief in her talent, always reminding her that every song she creates is a hit.

But what truly sets Zieta Eve apart from other artists is her unapologetic authenticity. She embraces everything that makes her unique:
“What sets me apart from other artists is simple: I am who I am, and that is ‘too much,’ ‘too sensitive,’ ‘too understanding’—and I claim it all. The good, the bad, and I write about it. I live it. I’m here for the music as well as true human connection. Anyone can connect to me. It’s like being both a beautiful piece of art and a blank canvas at the same time.”

With a career rooted in self-discovery, resilience, and human connection, Zieta Eve proves that the most powerful art comes from being unapologetically yourself. From her powerful performances to her heartfelt music, Zieta Eve’s journey is just beginning, and her fans are invited along for the ride.

Stay tuned, because Zieta Eve is ready to redefine artistry in 2025 and beyond.

https://linktr.ee/ZIETAEVE?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=b68a7a7d-eda3-4832-9aef-7a806be85421

Ohio Hip-Hop Group “The Council 2432” Signs Major Distribution Deal

Industry Spotlight

Ohio has long been a fertile ground for unique musical talent, producing renowned acts such as Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Machine Gun Kelly, Killarmy, Stalley, Trippie Redd, Illogic, DaBaby, Hi-Tek, Copywrite, and Ray Cash. Adding to this legacy is the state’s next emerging powerhouse, The Council 2432.

The group is gearing up for a groundbreaking 2025 after securing a distribution deal with Dominion Hill Records, a New Jersey-based label, and Roc Nation Distribution. Their rise to prominence began with a buzzworthy performance by their lead artist, Jag Da Apostle, during a rap cipher in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event, part of an after-party hosted by Killarmy-Supreme and Mook of the Wu-Tang Clan, featured appearances by Wu-Tang affiliates Dom Pachino of Killarmy, Rugged Monk of Black Knights, Cappadonna, and Inspectah Deck.

Billy Blaize, CEO of The Council 2432, is not only a driving force behind the group but also a major player in the legal cannabis industry. Leveraging his influence, Blaize has secured opportunities for the group to perform at prominent festivals and cannabis events across Ohio and the Tri-State area, further solidifying their presence in the industry.

The Midwest-based group comprises artists Jag Da Apostle, Mall Black, Manny Devise, Matthew Cooper, Zach Wright, and Billy Blaize. Notably, Jag Da Apostle doubles as a dynamic producer, as showcased on the group’s self-titled mixtape, The Council 2432.

“Midwest Hip-Hop has its own identity,” says Rhasun of Dominion Hill Records. “What sets it apart from New York and the East Coast is that the market here isn’t as oversaturated. New York, being the birthplace of Hip-Hop, naturally has more artists, producers, and DJs who grew up in the culture. In New York, you often have to convert other artists into fans, which isn’t easy since everyone views you as competition. The Council 2432 has a unique advantage by cross-promoting their music through cannabis festivals and events.”

The Council 2432 is set to release their debut album, currently untitled, in the first quarter of 2025. With their distinctive sound and innovative approach, this group is poised to leave a lasting mark on Midwest Hip-Hop and beyond.

Visit Dominion Hill Records for Artist Signings and Label News

Dominionhillrecords.com

Artist Spotlight: C MiLLi – Reflective Hip-Hop and R&B Soul

Industry Spotlight

Hailing originally from Uniondale in Long Island, New York, and now based in Queens since 2020, C MiLLi has been carving out his unique path in the world of music. Rooted in a blend of Hip-Hop (Boom-Bap) and R&B/Soul, his artistry reflects both his spoken word beginnings and a deep introspection that resonates with fans across the board.

C MiLLi draws inspiration from legendary acts like A Tribe Called Quest, Nas, Wale, J. Cole, Kanye West, and Musiq Soulchild. These influences shine through in his reflective lyricism, soulful melodies, and grounded storytelling. His musical journey began in 2011, but his first commercial release came in 2019—a testament to the patience and perseverance that define his approach.

For the past four years, C MiLLi has headlined his own live show series, “C MiLLi Live,” across NYC. Each show is a fully curated experience, with 1-3 artists performing their own 15-minute sets, followed by C MiLLi’s 35-60 minute headlining performance. From behind-the-scenes planning to on-stage execution, he’s built a reputation for creating shows that captivate and inspire audiences.

C MiLLi’s latest project dives into self-reflection and his experiences as an independent artist. “Reflection on my life and this musical journey,” he explains. “As independent artists, we face unforeseen challenges that mold us—sometimes for the better, sometimes not. It’s important to give ourselves grace, to cherish how far we’ve come, and embrace what lies ahead.” His message is one of perseverance, gratitude, and hope.

Fans of C MiLLi have plenty to look forward to in the coming year. He’s preparing to release new music, likely in the form of an EP, along with visually stunning music videos in collaboration with a trusted director. His upcoming YouTube series, “MiLLi Bought It,” will debut next year, showcasing his creativity in a fresh format. Season 2 of “MiLLi Merch” has already launched, and the line will continue to expand into 2025. Additionally, his “MiLLi Vision”newsletter offers a closer look at his journey—available for subscription on his website, cmillivision.com.

C MiLLi gives special recognition to several key contributors to his recent project: producer DJ Flipside, engineer RM808s, and visualizer director Rafa Diaz. Their efforts have helped bring his vision to life, elevating the quality and depth of his work.

What truly makes C MiLLi stand out is his spoken word foundation and his thoughtful, reflective writing style. His artistic awakening began in high school, where he performed Gil Scott Heron’s “The Revolution Will Not Be Televised.” That experience profoundly shaped how he approaches conveying messages in his music. “I’ve believed things were bigger than me for a long time,” he says. “I keep that mindset in my writing so others can resonate in their own ways.”

C MiLLi’s music is more than entertainment—it’s an invitation to reflect, grow, and connect. As he continues to evolve, his fans can expect nothing less than authenticity, creativity, and a deeper glimpse into the mind of an artist who’s here for the long run.

For more updates, merch, and to listen to his latest music, visit his website: cmillivision.com.

Bone The Mack and Nkese Williams-Hayes Release a Stirring Single “Surviving Andre”

Industry Spotlight

Bone The Mack and Nkese Williams-Hayes, dropped a new track, Surviving Andre, on November 22, 2024. Produced and engineered by Rock Ali, the song serves as a single for the forthcoming documentary Surviving Andre Part 2. This emotionally charged piece directly addresses Andre Vann, with the powerful line “Jeremaine Is Not your dad” encapsulating the personal and confrontational essence of the song. Bone The Mack and Nkese Williams-Hayes heartfelt delivery and raw lyricism make this track an unmissable part of the documentary’s narrative.

Dr. Karren Dunkley awarded Jamaica’s National Honour, The Order of Distinction in the rank of Officer

Industry Spotlight

Dunkley previously served as Global Jamaica Diaspora Council member for the United States Northeast region. Reacting to the news of her national honour, Dunkley said in a statement, “It is with profound humility and immense gratitude that I accept the Order of Distinction for service to the Jamaican diaspora. This honour is not just a personal achievement but a testament to our community’s collective efforts and unwavering dedication to advancing Jamaica’s national development.” She said she would dedicate the honour to her beloved mother, Barbara Carmeta-Dunkley, “whose support and love have been my guiding light. I also share this recognition with the many deserving sons and daughters of our soil”. Dunkley said Jamaica’s greatest asset is its people and she was honoured to continue this collaborative work of upliftment and unity for our community and country. Dr. Karren Dunkley is a Jamaican born social justice activist, an internationally recognized educator, speaker and leadership coach.

Dr. Karren Dunkley
https://kndconsultinggroup.com
https://www.instagram.com/drkarren
https://www.facebook.com/DrKarren
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-karren-dunkley-od-5929305b
https://www.reachedsolutions.com/meettheteam/project-two-6shft

Damola Idowu of Toyz Electronics Honored with Strategic Service in Stem Award

Industry Spotlight

Toyz Electronics, Inc. 

4620 Henry St., Pittsburgh, PA 15213 

https://toyzelectronics.com/ 

Maria Keenan, Marketing Intern 

Email: Mckeenan14@gmail.com 

Damola Idowu Honored with Strategic Service in STEM Award 

Pittsburgh, PA – Founder of Toyz Electronics, Inc., Damola Idowu, has been awarded the Strategic Service in STEM Award by the PBGH HBCU Collaborative. This award regognizes Idowus work in creating educational ecosystems designed to empower economic mobility through education, STEM and gaming. 

Toyz Electronics, Inc. is an organization dedicated to providing opportunities for STEM education for underrepresented communities, equipping individuals and students with essential skills for todays job market and technology driven economy. Idowu, a Howard University alumni, channels his commitment to educational innovation through programs that bridge a gap between technology, culture and accessibility. Through his leadership, Toyz Electronics, Inc. has developed tools and programs aiding students who struggle in traditional learning environments. 

The company thanks key supporters including the Swarts Center for Entrepreneurship, the Richard King Mellon Foundation, Innovation Works, The Heinz Endowments, The Pittsburgh Foundation, the Grable Foundation and Hyundai Motor America for their support. These organizations have been instrumental to Toyz Electronics mission to drive educational innovation through STEM initiatives. 

“This award is not just acknowledging our past achievements but is Sa motivator for what is to come,” said Idowu. “Our mission is to foster a future where education and technology go hand in hand. I am honored to be a Howard University Bison and represent the values of the university as we move forward with our mission.” 

This award solidifies Toyz Elecrtronics, Inc. and Idowu as leaders in the STEM and education industries. Their ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected through this recognition. 

###

ABOUT TOYZ ELECTRONICS, INC. 

Toyz Electronics, Inc. is a company driven by culture and leveraging technology to create economic mobility through education. By working with univiersitys in creating accessible programs, Toyz Electronics aims to create a platform for underrepresented communities in 

STEM, providing transformative learning experiences allowing these individuals to succeed in a technologically motivated world. 

MEDIA RELATIONS CONTACT: 

Maria Keenan, Marketing Intern 

Email: Mckeenan14@gmail.com

Discovering A Kay A: The Rising Star from Valrico

Industry Spotlight

Discovering A Kay A: The Rising Star from Valrico A Kay A, originally from Valrico, Florida, is making waves in the music industry with her unique blend of pop and R&B infused with Caribbean influences. With a heritage rooted in Jamaican culture, her upbringing has profoundly shaped her songwriting and artistic identity. Drawing inspiration from iconic artists like Janet Jackson, Beyoncé, Jazmine Sullivan, and Britney Spears, A Kay A’s sound is both familiar and refreshing. This year has been particularly monumental for her: she won a Lucille Lortel Award for her performance in the Off-Broadway play (pray), opened for 50 Cent at Club Nebula, and shared the stage with Danity Kane’s D Woods at Joe’s Pub in the East Village.

Each of these achievements highlights her versatility and talent as both an actress and a musician A Kay A’s sophomore EP, Re/Aligning Me, delves into the complexities of relationships—especially with those who hold the power to hurt us the most: family, friends, and romantic partners. She encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives, examining whether their relationships align with who they truly want to be. This introspective approach invites fans to explore their vulnerabilities and consider the impact of their connections. Looking ahead, fans can expect exciting visuals to accompany her music. With eager fans anticipating these visuals, A Kay A is poised to deliver an unforgettable experience. A Kay A’s journey as a songwriter began at the tender age of nine. Even then, she poured her emotions into music, crafting songs about friendship, love, and the ups and downs of life. This emotional depth continues to resonate in her work today.

Creating music is never a solo endeavor, and A Kay A is grateful for her dedicated team. Special shout-outs go to Project Coordinator Meech for his networking prowess, Braulio at Music Goals, and Dom at Mansion Studios for their engineering expertise. She also appreciates the support of her sponsors, GameGlory and Uptown Merch Solutions, whose contributions have been invaluable. What truly sets A Kay A apart from her peers is her captivating story and the effort she invests in her live performances. She emphasizes the importance of athleticism in her artistry, dedicating hours to rehearsals, breath control, and stage presence. This commitment has helped her find her unique magic on stage, making her performances not just entertaining, but transformative. As A Kay A continues to evolve as an artist, she invites her fans to join her on this exciting journey. With her rich storytelling and vibrant performances, it’s clear that A Kay A is a rising star to watch in the coming years.

Crafting Imagery Through Sound

Industry Spotlight

Emerging artist CL Sounds  is making a notable mark with his unique approach to music, where vivid imagery and abstract ideas come alive through sound. A writer at heart, sound’s creativity spans various forms, including literature, film, and video games. His music is characterized by its ability to paint intricate pictures in the listener’s mind. While many artists today focus on themes like sex, drugs, and pain, CL strives to explore a wider array of human experiences, infusing his melodies with both a distinct urban edge and a broader emotional range.

Sounds musical style defies easy comparison, a fact he embraces, preferring others to determine which artists he might resemble. In the next three years, he envisions expanding his reach, continuing his current artistic endeavors, and engaging a larger audience. He remains dedicated to his craft, evidenced by his ongoing web series, *Anarchy*, and his work on a new, untitled music project. His goal for 2024 and beyond is to forge deeper connections with other artists and audiences, focusing on sharing his ideas rather than perfecting them.

A creative force beyond music, CL is also developing a sci-fi series and other innovative projects. His nickname,  “Sounds,” originated from a serendipitous encounter in North Carolina, where an engineer praised his unique sound. The moniker reflects his broader artistic vision, with “CL” standing for “Cameras Lights,” highlighting his multifaceted approach to creativity.

Hailing from New Jersey, CL’s formative years were marked by frequent relocations, which he believes shaped his networking challenges in the music industry. Despite this, his early involvement with the Newark Boys Chorus School and his experiences traveling the world—highlighted by meeting Nelson Mandela—have been profound sources of inspiration. These experiences, combined with his admiration for influential figures like Jimi Hendrix, Pharrell Williams, and Timbaland, continue to drive his artistic journey.

CL’s most recent project, the “Colliding Hearts EP”, explores the complexities of relationships, emphasizing personal growth and learning from experiences. His perseverance and dedication to his craft are his greatest accomplishments, reflecting his commitment to an ever-evolving journey in the music industry. As he continues to impress and inspire, CL Sounds remains a compelling figure to watch in the world of music and beyond.