Storii believes that relationships are everything in the music industry. You don’t have to be the best singer or communicator to make it big in the game. However, establishing a network of peers, friends or other professionals who believe in your abilities goes a long way in boosting your motivation and improving your status in any place. This is Richard Scarborough, aka Storii, a humble songwriter. His rise to fame is a story of resilience and dedication but, most importantly, fostering new relationships with the right people.

Akon is an iconic musician who has used this talent to impart positive values in the lives of people; Storii agrees with this fact. Akon was his idol while growing up. He remembers listening to some of his hits, and he couldn’t fail to appreciate his composure and lyrical stance. As he started his career as a recording artist and songwriter, he envisioned working with Akon in the future. We had a chance to sit down with Storii for a candid interview, check it out below.

How did you get in contact with Akon?
I got in contact with Akon through another writer named Kaydence. She’s an established songwriter in the industry. We worked on a bunch of music together, and Akon just happened to pick a record that we had worked on to use for his project.

Did you work with him directly right away?
No. But believe it or not, I manifested it. For the longest time, my main goal was to work with Akon. In college, I would try to get in contact with him in any way possible. I wanted to partner with him; this was my dream. Deep down, I knew that one day I would finally connect with Akon and do some work together. If that’s not manifestation, then I don’t know what is.

What does Akon mean to your career?
It means a lot. He was my idol for a long time and still is—a true legend. Working with him is like winning a championship for me because it was on my top ten bucket list.

Do you hope you hope to work with Akon again in the future?
I hope so. He is a rare talent and person. It felt good to interact with a music legend. Admittedly, I don’t think he’s finished with music, so hopefully, he keeps on doing this for everyone who looks up to him for inspiration.

Aside from his music career, Akon is an active philanthropist, always dedicating his time and effort to help disadvantaged people in the society. Storii admires this, and he is working hard to align his endeavors to that of his favorite music icon. He is using his talent as a songwriter to remind humanity of hope and perseverance, aspects needed to counter any challenging ordeal.

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A post shared by Richard "Storii" Scarborough (@storiimusic)

The post How Songwriter Storii Started Working with Akon Konnect appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Equal parts country and soul, Camino’s sound is definitely in a lane of his own. After performing on the Warped Tour at 16 years old, The Mississippi native knew, despite the odds, that he was destined for greatness.

The Warped Tour experience led to the singer working on a song for B.o.B, Camino linked up with Konvict Music CEO, Akon, who groomed the soul signer for two years, earning him a deal with Akon through Konlive in 2015.

After being introduced to Polow Da Don, who fell in love with Camino’s record “Riot,” Polow introduced Camino to DJ Mormile, who signed him to Columbia Records in 2016. Despite the four year hiatus, Camino has been putting the finishing touches on his debut album, which is slated to drop later this year and features appearances by legendary musicians Abe Laboriel Jr., who plays drums for Paul McCartney, and Abe Laboriel Sr., who played bass for Michael Jackson. His unique fusion of pop, soul, and folk have earned him comparisons to the modern-day Johnny Cash, a title that Camino doesn’t take lightly.

“My life has changed in an amazing way. I’ve gained more opportunities to be able to do what I love and create. I’ve learned a lot these past few years and have grown as a person and artist,” Camino said. “New music is coming in the near future. I’ve been working hard in the studio to be able to say this with confidence.”

In regards to advice for newcomers, Camino reveals that consistency and intention are key.

“Work hard, be patient, take accountability and don’t give up on your dream,” Camino said. “Make sure you always remember why you started making music and that feeling you get from it. There are going to be ups and downs but keep a strong mentality and foundation, and surround yourself with people that motivate and inspire you to push through.”

Camino’s music is just like he is: raw, unfiltered, southern, and soulful. His soul-piercing ballads are unparalleled and Camino does an amazing job of translating his unwavering faith into his records, connecting with and inspiring listeners to do the same.

To stay up to date with Camino online, follow him here.

Check out the video for his latest release, “Riot” below.

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The post RESPECT. Check-In: Singer Camino Talks Hiatus, New Music and Soul appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

By: R. City

Hitmaker Theron “Uptown” Thomas is one half of the brother duo R. City, who is responsible for some of Pop music’s biggest records to date. Having worked with the likes of Rihanna, Lizzo, Jennifer Hudson, Adam Levine, The Pussy Cat Dolls and Akon to name a few, this living legend plans to impact the careers of many more hotshots in the new year.

I had the pleasure of catching up with this hotshot for a candid interview to discuss finding longevity, creating music with his brother and working with some of Pop music’s most notable acts. Check it out below.

Theron Thomas Interview 

Respect: How did you get your start in the music business?

Theron: I officially started in the business in 2007. My brother and I were in a big group in the Caribbean especially the United States Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. We got famous over there and then moved to the states in 2000 to try to make it. It took us 7 years to finally get in. We got in as songwriters but we were trying to make it as artists. A song we wrote in the 7th grade called “The Rain” got us that foot in the door. We didn’t even know that people wrote songs for other people.

So my best friend who was and is still Akon’s DJ let me know that Akon was working on his next album. So he played a few songs for me, and me being young and arrogant I said I can write a better song than the ones he had played. He then asked me to play the song I had in mind. I played “The Rain” and he loved it. My friend called me and told me Akon wanted the song but I was like “why would he sing a song we wrote?”

He then said people write songs for people over here in the states and Akon bought our song for $5000. That was the most money we had ever received at that time. I had a daughter catching the bus so for me I could not believe people paid that much money for a song. After working with Akon people started hitting us up asking us if we wrote songs and it just went on from there.

Respect: What is it like creating music with your brother and how R. City came about?

Theron: Making music with my brother is fun. We both respect each other’s talent and allow each other to lead in the areas that we are experts at. The good part is that sometimes we clash and the music is better because of that. Sometimes I want to do this and he wants to do something else and that friction creates this unique sound.

How we got our name R. City is because we are from St. Thomas, which is known as “Rock City”. We couldn’t legally release music under the moniker “Rock City” so we dropped the Rock and called ourselves R. City, which stands for Rock City.

Respect: When did you catch your big break? 

Theron: I would say linking with Akon is when I caught my big break for sure because it opened up a door that never closed. It was a small opening and once it opened we kicked the door down and bum-rushed our way in. The door never closed on us after that point.

Respect: Can you describe the relationship between R. City & Adam Levine of Maroon 5?

Theron: It is good! Adam Levine embraced us and Maroon 5 took us on tour with them. They are the nicest guys. I feel like I am in their debt for life if you ask me. He did not have to do a song with us, he did not have to take us on tour, nor did the band have to agree with him to allow us to come along. Our relationship is good and will remain that way.

Respect: How did working with the Pussy Cat Dolls on their “I Want To Grow Up” release come about and how did it impact you career?

Theron: That was our first hit record. We did it with Rodney Jerkins and it was originally for Britney Spears but it did not fit the space she was in musically at that time. We were signed to Interscope and my A&R at the time Erica Grayson knew we wrote songs so we sent it to her and she loved it. She sent it to Jimmy Lovine and the rest is history. We had a hit “When I Grow Up” and that was the first time people gave us our respect for charting. That led to us getting more big opportunities, so that was a big deal for us. 

Respect: As you have worked with some of pop music’s biggest stars, who are some artist’s career you have heavily influenced?

Theron: I would say people who we have worked with since the beginning of their careers such as Jennifer Hudson who’s This Isn’t Love Album we worked on. It was a Grammy-winning album. Ne-Yo did “Spotlight” and we did “This Isn’t Love “ the single. Lizzo I would have to say as well. I worked on her current album that is out. She was nominated for 8 Grammy Awards.

Out of the 8, she walked away with 3 awards. She is amazing and a really good person. I knew she was special and a star from the day I met her. At the time I was working with Rihanna on her new album, flying back and forth to Paris and London for 2 and a half years not working on anything else. But at the same time, I knew I wanted to work with her because she was so dope and did.

Respect: How has being from the Virgin Islands influenced your music career and taste in music?

Theron: We do not have segregated radio in the islands. Like in America you all have urban radio, pop radio, rhythmic radio meaning that you all have separate genres. In the Virgin Islands, we don’t. If there is a Bob Marley, Aerosmith or Little Keed song they all play on the same radio station. Growing up as kids we never really saw genres because the lines were blurry. It influenced us in a way where we would put hip hop, r&b, soul, pop and rock all in one like gumbo.

Obviously, people thought it was weird at first but then they realized that is what makes R. City unique. One time we were writing a song for Gwen Stefani and she told me that she loved the R&B melody. I didn’t even know that it was an R&B melody. I just liked it because it sounded cool.

Respect: How important is it as an artist and songwriter to have creative freedom? 

Theron: It is very important because with your art you want to make sure people see your vision. I write songs for other artists that I won’t sing so my vision is important. I might write the most gangster hood song for DJ Khaled’s album and then for my album take a completely different direction because that is simply just not who I am. Feel like in the music I want to make sure people are getting to know me as much as I can as well as my brother. We just want people to see what we stand for and what we are into and rock with it.

Respect: What Advice would you give any creative looking to break into the industry as a songwriter?

Theron: Practice makes perfect. Keep on writing and learn how to accept advice. But do not let the advice control you because everybody’s story is different. Like no one no matter what will have my story I don’t care how they try. Nobody is going to move from the Islands with $35 in their pocket. No matter what advice I give you, you have to walk your path. As cliché as it sounds, the best advice anyone can tell you is to never give up. The only people that actually who lose are the people that quit and that is for real.

Respect: What are you currently working on? 

Theron: A kid named 11:11, my good friend Dr. Luke, Mario, Usher, Lordes, A1 LaFlare (singer/songwriter) and I’m currently in the studio with Saweetie. So much love for her and her drive and work ethic. I have a different level of respect for her being in the studio with her seeing her create.

I am also working with Doja Cat on her new album. I did her records “Rules” and “Like It” Feat. Gucci Mane. I am in a space where I want to work with new people and be responsible for ushering in a new wave of talent. Kim Petras is one of the best pop voices in the world. I am super excited about her. That is where I am mentally. It is all about working with new artists.

My son Sumo and I did a kid’s album that we will release this year. He is 7 years old and I am truly excited about that. It’s called Sumo World. I am just in a great space. When I first started music I did it because I had a daughter, I was broke and wanted to take care of her my way. Now money is not an issue, and I’m making music that I love and that I want to hear.

I am ecstatic to also announce that new R. City music is coming soon!! 2020 will be a crazy year!!! 

 Be sure to follow Theron on IG @therontheron_ as he continues his reign over the music business. .

The post Theron “Uptown” Thomas: Pop Hitmaker You Need To Know appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Brazilian Multi-platinum producer, João “JD On Tha Track” Duarte, is a hitmaker influencing the hip hop game in a major way. Backed by Sony Music Entertainment his distinct sound has afforded him the opportunity to collaborate with music hotshots such as Lil Tjay, Polo G, Gunna, Lil Baby, NBA Youngboy, and Rick Ross to name a few.

I caught up with the hitmaker for a candid interview, as he openly discussed transitioning to America, creating hits with Lil Tjay and having an original sound. Check it out below!

JD On Tha Track Interview 

Respect: Who is JD on the Track?

JD: Just a person that had a dream to become one of the greatest producers ever. I’ a person who made it out Brazil that wanted to change the world in a positive way, being a motivation to people and someone to help people through music. I want people to feel my beats in their hearts and souls and change their lives for the better.  I want to my music to make people’s day. I want to change the world. I want to be the best producer ever.

Respect: When did you realize you wanted to pursue a career in music as a producer?

JD: I realized around 2011 when I was listening to Wiz Khalifa’s  “Cabin Fever” album or something like that and I told myself,  “I want to be apart of this” because when I saw the producing credits of the producers, I knew I wanted to make something like this. So that is when I first realized, I wanted to do that. 2012 was the year I actually started making beats. I always loved music.  Since I was a kid, I always listened to Eminem, 50 cent, Akon, The Game, everybody back in the day. I always had that passion for music especially Rap and Hip-Hop.”

Respect: How did you get your start in the music business? When did you catch your break?

JD: I think it was when TJAY dropped “Brothers” and that song started doing well. After “Pop Out”, everything was getting better.”

Respect: Do you mind giving some insight on what it’s been like working and creating with Lil Tjay?

JD: We the got chemistry. Since I met him, we just kept going hard. We have so many songs that are not even out yet and every song that we have could go platinum. Every song that we have a good response from the fans and everybody.

Respect: How does it feel like having a record charting on billboard at the number 11 as one of your major accomplishments?

JD: It feels amazing. Just a blessing.

Respect: How has being a multi-platinum producer changed your life?  

JD: It changed my life on how I see things. I have become so mature. I have learned so many new things.

Respect: As you are a producer who has found your way in the industry, how would you best describe your production style?

JD: I think my production style is melodic with some hard drums. It’s very unique. When people come to me, they want that “JD on the track” style. When they hear it, they will know it is me on the beat once my tag line drops on every song. That is really important for a producer. Producers need to have their own sound and style.

Respect: What prompted your move to America from Brazil as you have recently relocated?

JD: I have only been living in the US for 3 months. Music made me move to the US to pursue my dreams and goals. Respect: What is up next for JD on the Track as the new year is underway, and what are you most excited about in 2020?

JD: I have a lot of songs with a bunch of new people. I am not going to disclose any names but it is a lot of people and you all will see when it drops. You can expect so much more hard work, many more plaques, and an album. I want to drop an album with all my producing credits. You can expect a lot from me in 2020.

Respect: What prompted your move to America from Brazil?

JD: I have only been living in the US for 3 months. Music made me move to the US to pursue my dreams and goals.

Respect: How have things been since moving to America?

JD: It was tough in the beginning but after a while, I have definitely gotten used to it.

Respect: What advice would you give a person looking to break into the industry as a producer?

JD: Just keep going hard. Keep doing what you doing. Do not listen to what anyone has to say about it. Do not lose faith. Just keep going, no matter what.”

To learn more about JD On Tha Track and his future success, be sure to follow him one social media @jdonthatrack.  

The post JD On Tha Track Talks Being A Hitmaker, Working With Lil Tjay & Transitioning To America appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

By: Kris J

Atlanta rapper Kris J has released a frre new single titled “Ya Dig“. Having opened up for the likes of Akon, Trinidad James, Kap G, Rob $tone and Starlitto, this rising star is ready for the big leagues. This release will appear on his forthcoming project “7 Days A Week” set be released later this week.

“Ya Dig” is the perfect summer record. Produced by Atlanta influencer and Shade 45’s DJIceberg, the smooth melody flows well with J’s confident bars. You will hear him talking about rolling dice and placing bets as the popping beat propels your ears to musical bliss. Some notable lyrics from this release are “roll the dice on her had to place all the bets, I know some n****s from my city who ain’t wish they the best”.

His clever lyricism and stacked word play comes full circle on this single. This is by far J’s best work together. As he and DJ Iceberg have teamed up to release their first ever collaborative effort, this is simply a taste of what is yet to come. Press play below to stream Kris J’s “Ya Dig“.

The post Kris J Releases New Single “Ya Dig” Single appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Photo Taken By Tony Trott

In 2017 we witnessed what some may consider a resurgence of R&B music, with new acts like Khalid, Brent Faiyaz, H.E.R., and Daniel Caesar making a huge impact in the culture. Outside of Grammy nominated songstress, SZA, we have yet to see many singers emerge from the Garden State in recent  years. However, Camden, New Jersey-based singer/song-writer, JDope intends to make 2018 his breakout year.

Throughout high school, JDope excelled in multiple sports, where he was one of the of top prospects in the South Jersey area. He went on to attend Delaware State University, but like many students of color, he struggled to survive due to lack of funds and resources. JDope eventually left school to follow his dreams and became a member of New Jersey Hip-hop group, BlakGang. After several years within the group, JDope is now pursuing a solo career.

RESPECT. had a chance to connect with JDope and learn a bit more about his inspirations, growing up in Camden, and premiere the gritty, official music video for his Kenif Muse-produced “Cold” single. Read JDope’s RESPECT. interview below.

When did you first realize that you should pursue a career as a singer?

JDope: High school is when I first started to play with music but around 2012 / 2013 is when I decided I wanted to pursue a career in music, doing a mixture of singing and rapping.

How did you feel your time with BlakGang prepared you for your solo career?

JDope: BlakGang taught me a lot. How to structure music, how to move, how not to move, how to value relationships and how to make real music. Blakgang taught me what I know today, which made me who I am today.

What was it like growing up in Camden?

JDope: When I was young, growing up in Camden was fun honestly.. playing jailbreak, kicking trash cans, cap gun fights etc… My grandfather and uncle lived on the same block for over 30 years Kenwood Ave in Parkside.

What are some of the biggest obstacles you face as an R&B act in Camden?

JDope: Camden is a city full of crime, so it’s a place where trap and hood music is most respected. I feel that it will take the city a couple songs to adapt to my diverse artistry.

We notice a handful of your singles have a breezy, tropical feel. How intentional is this, and overall, how would you describe your music?

JDope: Island vibes are my favorite type of music to make, although I have many vibes and wouldn’t want to categorize my style to one. I can make any type of record.

How do you feel about recent comparisons you’re receiving to Akon?

JDope: My new record “Cold” flips Akon’s hit single “Locked Up” Ft. Styles P. Akon is a legend.. I’m still impressed by the music he gave to the world . He’s very diverse and I want my catalog to give the same effect.

When it comes to R&B, who are you some of your inspirations?

JDope: My inspirations are Chris Brown, Drake, R. Kelly, Ne-Yo, Trey Songz, Omarion, Akon, of course, and many more.

“eXposed” is one of your most popular releases to date. What was the creative process for this track, and did you expect it to do this well?

JDope: eXposed was record I wrote shortly after a break up. I felt like the relationship was not based around trust and it turned out my partner had not been the most honest with me. So I titled the song “eXposed” because what you do in the dark will always come to the light. I did not expect it to do as well as it did being one of my first solo singles while still being in a group but I appreciate all the fans who have listened to the record and continue to listen.

What can listeners expect you to release next? Do you have any upcoming shows?

JDope: For my next release, listeners can expect something great from me. No upcoming shows just yet I have been working hard focusing on my first body of work. A ton of upcoming material so stay tuned!

Watch the EazyMelow X Plum Creek Productions-directed “Cold” music video above, and keep up-to-date with all things JDope by following him on Instagram here.

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The post RESPECT. Premiere: New Jersey Singer, JDope, Channels His Inner Akon for “Cold” Visual appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

On Konvict Kartel Vol. 2, the creative visionary crafts the artistic prowess of Konvict Music signees Tone Tone, OG Boo Dirty, Tre Carter, Demarco, 1st Broadcast and Upstairs. The 10-track definitive collection is both well rounded and cohesive, inviting listeners on an experimental adventure that caters to their tastes for genre-bending music. Offering poetic rap, club anthems and radio-friendly hits, the Konvict regime never disappoints.

Give it a listen at the top of the post and feel free to drop us your thoughts.

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The post Akon Unleashes New Mixtape: ‘Konvict Kartel Vol. 2’ appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.