Hip-Hop is still alive, you just have to know where to look. El Camino & Friends was the kind of underground Hip-Hop show that reminds you what rap and Hip-Hop is supposed to feel like. If you didn’t grow up in the era when Hip-Hop was formed in basements and parks with DJs scratching records by hand, you may of thought that part of the culture disappeared with time. What El Camino & Friends  brought to Crate Diggaz on South Street in Philadelphia felt like stepping into a modern version of what that era of Hip-Hop felt like to show you that it is still here. Real MCs, real bars, real stories, and real music. A Tour Built for Real Hip-Hop Fans If you attend an El Camino show near your city it's not going to be one of those shows where you walk out saying, “ yeah...that was cool. ” This is the type of show that makes you leave the venue thinking, “Hip-Hop still got a heartbeat." We know Philly doesn’t clap for just anybody so when Philly shows love you know its real. By the end of the show you could hear the fans reciting his lyrics right back at him. The Venue Switch Would’ve Killed Most Independent Artists One of the most impressive parts of the night wasn’t even the performance it was the fact that the show still happened at all. With a last-minute venue switch just days before the event, most artists would’ve cancelled completely. That kind of change throws off everything, promotion, ticketing, logistics, and trust. Especially without the cushion of presale tickets, a venue switch can easily kill the turnout. However, people still showed up and hella deep, and that says everything about the connection he’s built. Crate Diggaz on South Street was the perfect backdrop for the night. The show going on signaled El Camino has real fan loyalty. It was proof that his fan base aren't just casual listeners, they’re supporters who respect the grind and show up for the culture. It also goes without saying that El Camino’s team work ethic is a perfect example of what it looks like when a solid unit moves with purpose. When everybody knows their role and plays their part, everybody eats. Setbacks are just obstacles, not endings. El Camino’s Put His People On El Camino showed real love to his people. Too many artists treat the stage like a throne. They get so consumed with themselves that even if the homie is talented, they hesitate to let them shine too bright. But El Camino did the opposite, he gave his people space to perform, be seen, and build. From GatorMoney hosting, to Duck coming out all the way from Alaska, to one of my other favorites Focus The Truth on the lineup, everybody held their own. Everybody had presence. Everybody brought something different. And you could feel new fans being created in real time. That’s what a real movement looks like. This Crowd Didn’t Fit One Box Looking out into the audience, El Camino connected with multiple demographics. White kids in line buying vinyls from the merch stand. Spanish fans in the crowd shouting back his lyrics. The crowd had good vibes, no drama, no weird energy, just dope people coming together for music. That’s what underground rap does when it’s done right. It doesn’t have to force community. It naturally creates it. Love After the Applause After the show, it didn’t feel like an industry performance where the artist disappears into a sprinter van the second the last song ends. El Camino stayed and showed love to the fans that came out. And in the underground, that matters. Because the truth is, independent artists don’t survive off radio play or corporate marketing budgets they survive off fan support, consistency, and connection. This the type of love you can’t buy or fake. This night on South Street it wasn’t just a show, it was proof that Hip-Hop is still here. You just gotta know where to look. To stay tapped in with El Camino & Friends, follow El Camino on Instagram at @elcaminosway . .

To truly make a mark in the world, authenticity and unapologetic self-expression are key. AB Liva and Spade-O's album release party for "Glory" exemplified this unapologetic authenticity to perfection. The evening, meant to celebrate the creative brilliance of these two individuals, was not just about them; it was about the people. What stood out the most was the absence of egos in the room, defying the stereotype that Philly lacks support. Instead, attendees engaged in genuine connections, networking, and discussions about collaborations, debunking the myth that Philly doesn't show love. There's a palpable energy in the Philly air, indicating that the city is on the brink of a cultural explosion, and it won't be a surprise when Philly takes the lead. This event wasn't about superficial appearances; it was about the hustle, the grind, and most importantly, the music. Spade-O set the tone by emphasizing that the night was about the music, the very essence of why they entered the industry in the first place. "Glory" takes its listeners on a musical odyssey, from anthems that make you wave your lighter in the air to tracks with beats so infectious they make your face scrunch up in sheer admiration of the bars and lyricism. Liva and Spade-O aren't just your favorite rappers; they're the favorites of your favorite rappers, true legends in the game. The album displays a seamless transition from track to track, revealing the meticulous effort invested in its creation. Much like a live performance, designed to elevate the crowd's energy and then bring it down only to skyrocket it again, this album achieves this rhythm effortlessly. It establishes a deep connection with the listener, encouraging them to appreciate the entire record from start to finish. In an industry dominated by instant, easily digestible content, stumbling upon a hidden gem, a carefully crafted masterpiece like "Glory," is like savoring a meticulously prepared gourmet meal in a world obsessed with fast food. Amidst the flood of 15-second highlights, finding true authenticity in music, as showcased in this album, is profoundly refreshing. Artists rooted in Philly have a unique advantage. The city provides all the necessary elements for success. Instead of seeking opportunities elsewhere, artists should focus on becoming the force that generates the wave. Are you the spark or the explosion? Unless your name starts with "atomic," explosions are typically short-lived. But the spark, that enduring essence, remains timeless, always relevant and always burning. It's not just a Philly phenomenon; people often underestimate their own cities. There's a misguided belief that artists must leave their hometowns to make it big. However, Philly, as the sixth-largest city in the world's most powerful country, holds significant clout. It's a city built on hustle, innovation, risk-taking, and trendsetting. Embracing the distinctive Philly style, speech, and mannerisms is what sets the city apart. Philly doesn't need to mimic trends; being true to itself has always been more than enough. Gratitude is owed to AB Liva and Spade-O, who are pioneers in the game, reshaping the city's focus and reminding everyone to embrace the genuine cadence of Philly. You can purchase and listen to Glory on all streaming platforms Follow: Ab Liva @realabliva Follow: Spade-O @darealspadeo Watch & Listen to: AB Liva x Spade-O x Lihtz-Danergous (Official Video) #HIPHOP

Angelo Vivo, a rising star from the San Francisco Bay Area, stands out as one of the most dedicated independent music artists on the rise. In an era where the music scene is often flooded with artists relying on superficial talents and quick routes to stardom, Vivo's genuine passion and relentless work ethic shine brightly. He is steadily carving his niche in the competitive world of Pop and R&B. The contemporary music industry often feels overcrowded, with numerous individuals trying to gain recognition by any means necessary. Many artists resort to deceptive tactics and impatience, hoping for instant fame. In this landscape, Angelo Vivo is a breath of fresh air. He fearlessly invests his time and effort, refusing to succumb to shortcuts. His determination and refusal to be complacent set him apart from the crowd. . His commitment to his craft and his willingness to explore unconventional paths are truly inspiring, making him a beacon of authenticity in an industry often clouded by superficiality and impatience. Angelo Vivo - "Wild" (out now on all platforms) Supporting independent artists becomes a truly rewarding experience when you encounter someone like Angelo, who genuinely values his craft and invests in creating a memorable journey for his listeners. I took a listen to Angelo’s most recent project entitled “Wild” and fell in love with the vocals, theme, and overall production of the song. This track will take you out of your comfort zone and make you want to get up and dance like no one is watching. Not many things are free in this world but last I checked likes, comments, follows and shares still are ,so be sure to tap in with Angelo Vivo on socials or at www.angelovivo.com . Socials: Instagram / Twitter / Facebook Stream " Wild " today!

One of the most underrated parts of seeing independent artists perform is the intimacy of the experience. Small rooms create a kind of closeness you don’t get later without a VIP wristband and a rushed photo. When the distance between the stage and the crowd disappears, the connection feels real, unfiltered, and alive in the moment. I had been hearing the name Mona & Kat come up through friends and across my feed, so when I finally had the chance to catch them live, it felt like the right move. Walking into the venue without expectations made the experience even better. The room was filled with familiar faces, a reminder of how tightly woven the Philadelphia music scene really is when you’re tapped in. Mona & Kat blend R&B, house, and pop into a sound that feels intentional and uniquely their own. Music made for spaces where people come not just to listen, but to move, have fun, and enjoy themselves. That’s what makes local the local music scene special, it’s not only about discovering new artists, but about the community, the spontaneity, and the moments that only happen when people show up in real life. In rooms like this, a casual night out can turn into genuine connection and memories that stick. What stood out most wasn’t just the performance, but everything happening around it. Conversations sparked easily. Introductions felt organic. The energy in the room stayed light and open. These are the types of nights that remind you why seeing up-and-coming artists early matters. Not for bragging rights, but for the shared experience of being present while something is still growing. Character Matters as Much as Talent After the set, I had the chance to talk with Mona and Kat, and the same energy carried through. Both were down to earth, approachable, and easy to talk to. Nothing felt transactional or forced. It felt familiar, like running into people you already know. That kind of interaction says just as much as the music itself. Talent draws people in, but character is what makes them stay. Supporting artists who put real care into their craft has always been my baseline. Mona & Kat deliver quality without losing humility, staying grounded while remaining open to connection and collaboration. It’s refreshing to see artists this present, approachable, and not too cool for the room. If you’re looking for a good time and want to tap into what’s happening on the ground floor of the independent music scene, give Mona & Kat a follow and catch them live when you can. Instagram: @mona_and_kat

Wale’s latest album, Everything Is A Lot , is a rare thing, a true album designed to run from start to finish, uninterrupted. This project feels different. It’s an album with the polish of someone twenty years in the game, but with the passion of an artist introducing themselves to the world for the first time. It must be listened to in sequence, the order of the tracklist itself is part of the experience. It’s the kind of project we almost forgot the industry was capable of producing...A curated, intentional, a sonic art exhibit where everything matters. And while Wale has nothing left to prove, his name is already in the rafters. This feels like someone choosing expression over expectation and in the process, landed on a classic. THE MOMENT THE ALBUM LOCKS YOU IN From the first few tracks, you can feel this album is on a mission. You’re meant to feel something, and that intent becomes undeniable when you reach the Michael Fredo record. It doesn’t arrive gently. It hits sharp, sudden, undeniable. The kind of hit that pulls a reaction out of you before you even register the sound. Your face curls into that involuntary stank face and your body rocks, not because you decided to move, but because something inside you is trying to keep up with what just landed in your ears. By the time the Michael Fredo track ends, your hand is already drifting toward the rewind button, your mind racing: “Nah, run that back.”  But the album has its own timing and doesn’t wait for you. Before your thumb even makes contact, the next track “Power and Problems”  drops in, smooth, sudden, and controlled. Like a plane breaking out of turbulence into clean air. This isn’t just Wale performing. He’s conducting and guiding every rise and fall, shaping every emotional swing with the precision of someone who knows exactly where he wants to take you and exactly how he wants you to feel when you get there. REAL INGREDIENTS IN A PROCESSED ERA Part of what makes this album feel alive is the instrumentation. We’ve all been fed algorithmic, over-compressed, and now AI-flavored music for so long that real ingredients almost shock the palate: Real piano. Real bass. Real drums. Real arrangements. Real lyrics. Real rapping. Real music. Shout out to all the producers and musicians who contributed to this classic. This is hip-hop. This is Wale at his most dialed-in. THE CROSSROADS OF DREAMING & BECOMING Everything Is A Lot  confronts the pressure we’re conditioned to ignore, the emotional crossroads athletes describe after winning a championship. Once the confetti settles, the question no one prepares you for appears: What now? The truth is, life’s complexity and heaviness don’t disappear just because things look stable on paper or because your dreams finally became “reality.” There’s a hunger in this album that echoes the first version of falling in love with something the purity before expectations, before pressure, before anyone else’s voice enters the room. It’s authenticity at its rawest. This is why the album hits so deeply. It taps into that early joy of the craft, the first clean swish, the first time you beat your older brother 1-on-1, the moment where achievement feels weightless and all that matters is the love of the game. Creating for passion, not validation. Everything Is A Lot  reaches back into pure origin energy with beats that transport you back to banging your hands on the cafeteria table for the lunch time cyphers. As the album moves toward its final stretch, “Survive”  stands out as an emotional center, the moment where truth and exhaustion sit together in the dark and decide to keep going. And ending with the track “Lonely”  feels highly intentional and poetic, a quiet hallway exit from the art exhibit, the space where you’re still processing everything you just experienced. Everything Is A Lot  is now streaming on all platforms.For updates, follow Wale on social media and visit his official site for tour dates, merch, and new releases.

It was one of those nights that started without a plan. Just landed in Nairobi and somehow found myself at Koda, tucked away in Westlands, for R&B Night curated by @nairobirnb . From the moment I walked in and heard KARRL spinning, I knew this wasn’t just another set. His set was very intentional, every blend, every drop, every look he gave the crowd carried purpose. This wasn’t someone hiding behind a “good playlist.” This was an artist performing on stage. A Night with KARRL in Nairobi I’ve seen a lot of DJs, but few make you stop dancing just to watch them work. KARRL has that presence. No mic-talk, no forced hype, just pure crowd control, commanding the room to dance and move to the rhythm he sets. The way he layered riddims and folded new tracks into familiar grooves was poetry in motion. One minute he was deep in 90s R&B, the next he had us vibing to something fresh out of Nairobi’s underground. I kept catching myself pulling out my phone just to Shazam song after song. There was this one moment, when Karrl dropped Nviiri the Storyteller’s track “Niko Sawa”  featuring Bien. I couldn’t even tell you how he got there, I think it was off a Keyshia Cole or Tevin Campbell track, but either way it was unexpected. All I know is when that beat landed, I froze for a second, laughed to myself, and silently mouthed, “Who the fuck is this guy?” and I meant that with full respect. From that moment on, I wasn’t just listening; I was fully locked in. KARRL didn’t just play for  the crowd, he moved with  us. You could see it in how he built the tension in his transitions, how he made you guess what was coming next, then flipped it in a way that still made perfect sense. Every transition was a reminder that DJing is like playing an instrument and when done right, its like an act of storytelling. It’s that rare mix of intention and instinct that separates a playlist from a performance. Be Present for the Music For a time, everything disappeared in the crowd, no phone in hand, no recording, just sound, light, motion and presence. Watching KARRL reminded me why being in the moment still matters. There’s nothing like catching that look on someone’s face when the beat hits and the collective release when the crowd has when they move as one, that’s the magic we all as artists chase. Those subtle moments, when crafted with intention, are what turn a good DJ into a great one. It’s not always about playing what’s trending to spark a crowd. I have to believe there is greater satisfaction when you take risks and pop an underground song into a set and cause the crowd to have no clue why they starting vibing even harder to something “unfamiliar”. KARRL has that spirit. You can tell he’s not chasing clout; he’s chasing craft. Koda Nairobi Energy Koda was the perfect backdrop, minimalist, raw, the kind of place where the music does the heavy lifting. Upstairs, an open bar overlooked a dance floor full of people who weren’t too cool to move with tons of sections and VIP areas. Maybe it was the R&B crowd, but the night felt communal, like everyone came to exhale together. Shoutout to @nairobirnb for curating a night that gave space to up and coming artists. The night felt like a reflection of what “real music” can do when given space to breathe. Anytime we at Sheddin find ourselves in a place that lives and moves in the spirit of our ethos " where real music happens ” it hits home. Stay Connected Follow @iam_karrl for a glimpse into his world.If you’re in Nairobi and want to feel the city’s rhythm and blues, tap in with @nairobirnb and @kodanairobi .

There’s a vulnerability that comes with performing—a unique exposure that intensifies when an artist bares their heart on stage. At World Cafe Live’s Philly Rising open mic, that vulnerability transforms into power. For Angel Concepcion ( @arconcepcion ), this night was more than just another performance; it was a full-circle moment. When she first arrived in Philly, she shared how the Philly Rising stage at World Cafe Live became her safe space—a place to refine her craft and strengthen her confidence. Now, she stood on that same stage, commanding the room with ease, charisma, not as a random act but as a featured artist. Open mics are the place where artists grow and evolve. But performance isn’t just about talent—it’s about connection. Comfortability on stage is something many up-and-coming artists struggle to master, but Angel made it look effortless. Before she even began to sing, her personality shined causing an immediate audience connection where you sat there feeling like you were watching a good friend perform. Storytelling, Humor, and a Song About a Donut A standout moment of the night occurred when Angel gave the Philly Rising audience an exclusive sneak peek of her new song, “Yum” (which, at the time of this article, has yet to be released). She recounted an interview with WXPN, the radio station at The World Cafe Live, where they asked, "What was the strangest or funniest inspiration for a song?" Her answer? A donut. But “Yum” wasn’t just a playful jingle—it was a song layered with emotion, struggle, and the internal battle between temptation and discipline. Angel took a deeply personal yet universally relatable experience from her own weight loss journey and transformed it into a song that we can’t wait to hear when it’s released. Her intro to the song was a perfect mix of humor, personality, and authenticity, delivered with the timing of a comedian setting up their punchline. She shared a humorous memory: after losing 20 pounds, she heard her mom walk into the living room and, mimicking her mom’s Filipino accent, say, “Angel, I got a box of your favorite donuts.” The room erupted in laughter. But beneath the humor was a song that resonated deeply—a reflection of the struggle we all face when trying to resist what we know isn’t always good for us. Even before singing a note, Angel had the crowd completely locked in, hanging on to her every word. By the time she began to sing, we were hanging on every lyric. A Rising Star to Watch Beyond her storytelling and stage presence, Angel Concepcion’s musicianship and the fully loaded pen with ink in it is what truly sets her apart. Performing her own songs with her guitar, her original melodies feel both fresh and familiar, her soulful vibrato carrying echoes of that Philly magic that tends to bless those that spend time in the city. There’s no doubt—Angel is one of those rising stars. It won’t be a surprise to us when she graces bigger stages, and it’s only a matter of time before she becomes one of those undeniable voices in Philly’s music scene. Be on the lookout—Angel Concepcion is on the rise. Be sure to follow Angel Concepcion on socials: @arconcepcion. You don’t want to miss what’s coming next.

Philadelphia’s live music scene is alive and well, and Seraiah Nicole is a name you need to know. The singer-songwriter took the stage at South Jazz Kitchen last night for another sold-out, soul-infused performance that left the audience captivated from the first note to the last. With Southern-inspired cuisine in one room and a world-class jazz experience in the other, South set the perfect stage for a night where music, culture, and community came together. Backed by an all-star band, including Dan Rouse ( @drouse ) on keys, Sunny Dee ( @sunnydeedrumma ) on drums, and Tim Ragsdale ( @timonbass_ ) on bass. Supporting her powerhouse vocals were Dise Diasonama ( @disemusic ) and Maya Belardo ( @mayabelardo ) weaving harmonies that wrapped around the room like a warm hug. Seraiah’s Live Show Feels Like Family One thing about a Seraiah Nicole concert—by the time you leave, you’ll feel like family. Her set was an emotional journey, effortlessly moving between soul-stirring originals and reimagined classics. Standouts of the night included her stunning takes on "At Last" and "Over the Rainbow," each performed with the kind of passion that makes you hear the lyrics in a whole new way. You could feel her gospel roots shining through every note, creating an atmosphere that felt as warm and welcoming as a Sunday service or a family gathering. But it’s more than just the music—it’s the way Seraiah connects with her audience. Between songs, she shares personal stories, cracks jokes, and makes it feel like she’s singing directly to you. There’s an authenticity to her delivery, a rawness that reminds you that great music is not just only about how great one sings but it’s about making people feel something real. Whether you walked in alone or with friends, by the end of the night, you were swaying, singing, and vibing like long-lost cousins at a cookout. If you’re looking for a live music experience in Philly that blends soul, jazz, and genuine connection, Seraiah Nicole is an artist you need to follow. Her shows sell out fast—so grab your tickets early and prepare for a night you won’t forget. Follow @SeraiahNicole on socials or at www.seraiahnicole.com  and don’t miss out on the next unforgettable performance.

From the creative minds of Joey “Stix” & Terrance “Mac” comes Move Something, a live music dance party / concert experience held at Brooklyn Bowl in Philadelphia in partnership with Live Nation. Stix and Mac are really on to something special with this one. When coming to a Move Something dance party expect to encounter an elevated elevated club / concert experience, with a lineup personally curated by Stix and Mac featuring the best local DJs, Musicians and Artists alike ready to party. Hosted by Queen Jo who was just super fun the entire night and a great ball of energy. Sheddin was able to sit down with Queen Jo for a quick interview to give her thoughts on the event, you can check out or interview with Queen Jo and a few of the other featured acts that were on the main stage below. From covering a lot of events wether you’re an artist or DJ no one likes playing to a dead crowd full of wall flowers but with the structure of Move Something featuring DJs and not just as an interlude between bands setting up they were able to always keep the energy high and the people engaged and that was just so refreshing to see. Looking into the crowd we saw every shade in the crayon box represented, and its just something really fun about the power of music and how it can bring all types of people together. Here are our quick take aways from Move Something For artists / DJs Move Something great platform to showcase your talent at a notable venue to network and get new fans. Tired of the typical “club scene” but want to get dressed up to have a fun night of partying Move Something is your spot Get on the bandwagon now, it would be dope to see this event tour at all the other Brooklyn Bowl locations Theres always something entertaining going on, wether its talking to a vendor or just grabbing some shoes to go bowl there’s plenty to do for fun at Brooklyn Bowl. Cant wait for the next one! We didn’t get a chance to connect with everyone that took the stage but want to also shout out the co-sponsors of the event Soundroom and REC Philly. Special shout out to all the artists that stopped by our cameras to chat, be sure to follow them on instagram! Check out the videos below of the artists we were able to chat with during the event.

Split sheets are essential documents for musicians, especially in situations where multiple individuals collaborate on creating a musical work. Here are several reasons why musicians need split sheets: 1. Clear Documentation of Contributions: Split sheets provide a clear and written record of who contributed to the creation of a song. This includes songwriters, composers, lyricists, and anyone else involved in the creative process. 2. Ownership and Copyright Information: They specify the percentage of the song owned by each contributor. This is crucial for establishing ownership rights and determining how royalties will be divided in the future. 3. Avoids Disputes and Misunderstandings: Having a written agreement prevents disagreements and misunderstandings among collaborators regarding their respective contributions and entitlements to royalties. 4. Simplifies Royalty Distribution: Split sheets simplify the process of distributing royalties. Performance rights organizations and other royalty collection agencies rely on these agreements to distribute payments accurately. 5. Facilitates Future Dealings: When a song becomes successful, there might be future opportunities for licensing, covers, or collaborations. Having a clear record of ownership makes negotiations with third parties much smoother. . 6. Preserves Creative Relationships: By clearly defining each person's contribution and ownership stake, split sheets can prevent disputes from arising, preserving creative relationships between collaborators. 7. Reference for Credits: Split sheets serve as a reference for album credits, ensuring that all contributors are properly acknowledged for their work. In summary, split sheets are crucial because they provide transparency, prevent conflicts, ensure fair compensation, and help maintain positive and professional relationships among musicians and collaborators. They are a fundamental tool for establishing a clear understanding of the business aspects of music creation.