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.

By: Zenden Lavon

Rapper, singer-songwriter, and producer, Zenden Lavon has returned to the music scene with the official visual for his latest single, “Blue Dream“. As a current resident of Los Angeles, California, this creative credits his experience of  living in several different countries as the driving force behind many of his concept-driven projects.

Being heavily influenced by Bob Marley, Andre 3000, and Jay-Z, Lavon prides himself on creating songs that are lyrically sophisticated, while keeping the Jazz influence that was evident on his album ‘Be Vol. 1.’

The post Zenden Lavon Releases “Blue Dream” Single & Video appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

By: Truth Ali

California based Hip Hop artist Truth Ali has dropped off the PREMIERE of his latest visual for his “Wait A Minute” single. Having been compared to the likes of Eminem, Techn9ne, Ludacris, Busta
Rhymes, Twista and 2 Pac,  his raw creativity is relentless. As someone who prides themself on being real and authentic, he shows the world why he is the next big act coming out the west coast. His quick tongue and vicious bars are two elements of this release that take Truth Ali’s talent to new heights.

In this visual you will see the emcee dressed in an almost all black ensemble with a black background, conveying his seriousness. As he spits some of his heaviest bars, the California native comes correct, and hard. With a rapidly growing fan base this visual is exactly what a real hip hop lover is looking for. The man and woman moving in unison as silhouettes are really nice to touch an impressive body fo work.

Truth Ali does a great job bridging conscious lyrics over a booming thriving melody. Some bars that stand out the most on this song are “all I’m fearing is God, no longer afraid of my own strength, y’all ain’t wasting my time ain’t no refunding on that shit”. His on camera charisma and high energy delivery, gives him an edge over the other newcomers looking to shake up the music business.

The post RESPECT. Premiere: Truth Ali Releases “Wait A Minute” Visual appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Taking a moment to embrace the world of music, J.Cole steps away from his everyday environment to welcome broader horizons. In a short film presented by Bally, the profound lyricist steps out into the inviting scenery of Jamaica. As well as enjoying the island’s Blue Mountains, we see Cole experimenting with guitar, while leaving enough time to record music in Bob Marley’s studio. Watch as the “Forest Hills Drive” emcee becomes inspired by breathtaking surroundings.

The post J.Cole Ventures Into Bob Marley’s Studio appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Portuguese street artist Odeith has gone back to his native country to give back to his community through art. In the streets of Quinta do Mocho, Odeith has given tribute to one of the greatest musicians of our time, Bob Marley.

Huge, lifelike paintings are the norm for Odeith, so it’s not surprising he created this beautiful work of art using different shades of blue.

One love! Let us know what you think about this piece on a comment below.

The post Odeith Sketches Massive Bob Marley Tribute In Portugal appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

There is something incredible about Bashy’s music and background. The London rapper has come a long way since he swapped his day jobs as a postman and bus driver for a taste of the music charts, but you would never know this by his stance. He is modest, remarkably straightforward, and exceptionally engaging, which shows exactly why his 2007 introductory breakthrough, “Black Boys”, distinguished him as a fully formed force. The single garnered acclaim and saw him evolve into a rising rap star in a matter of two years. Even more impressive was that while he developed into a completely unique musician, with trademark flow and his own, idiosyncratic style, he also starred in movies.

He swings through all his tracks in a forceful and expressive way that is addictive and equally chilling. His music is not about drugs, money, politics, or materialism. It’s about providing inspiration. Perhaps one of the most obvious qualities about his sound has been his growth and reinvention, with no mixtape or album sounding anything alike. We spoke to the lyrical soprano at a moment when he is poised for a another great run. Read below to find out why he’s probably not going be tripping over any stones.

RESPECT: When we first met, you were a young, fresh-faced rising rapper. But within a few years, your life has changed. In your head, where are you right now?

Bashy: I guess in my head, I’m in the same place. I don’t really think about the achievements, but when I speak to someone and I’m reminded of everything, that’s usually when I look back and think how blessed I am.

You’ve seem to have developed an interest in time travelling since the last time I saw you.

Yeah. My new single, “These Are The Songs”, is about me looking back in order to move forward and really tuning in with where I’m from and making sure as an artist I’m constantly evolving and reinventing myself. In terms of being an artist, I’m in a comfortable place. I feel really creative and at the moment I’m dipping into grime, hip hop, jungle, and enthusing them all together with my style, while creating a lane for myself.

Do you think music is nature or nurture for you? Were you born an artist? Or were you raised to become one?

I think I was born to become one. There are pictures on my Instgram where you will see me as young as three with a microphone in my hand. In terms of nurture, I feel it’s around me and my mum more than anyone didn’t shy away from it. If I wanted to do something, she would encourage it. She wouldn’t force me to do anything as it was always down to what I wanted to do, so I think both nature and nurture has allowed me to do this.

So what kind of conversations did you have around the dinner table growing up?

There was always encouragement about doing whatever and being anything you want in life. My mum always said that she thought I’d do something special, she even told me before I had established myself. So, I guess this is my special thing.

Did you ever have any proper jobs, before you became a rapper?

I used to be a postman and after that a bus driver. I think some people in society don’t want to work because everything seems to revolve around their image, which is what everybody worries about.  Some people think it is uncool to work, but I just think if you need a job you should get one and not worry what people think.

You’ve also done some acting?

Yeah. I mean, I’m an actor first; that’s what I started out doing. At the age of 14, that was the direction that I wanted to go in but then the music took off.

What can you tell me specifically about “These Are The Songs”?

It’s a fusion of grime with a really nogalistic feel to it. I’m rapping about an era that meant something to me and I’m also referencing other songs from that era. Every so often, in the UK a really dope sound tends to emerge whether that be garage, grime or dubstep; things come out of this country that sometimes spark a global phenomenon.   I’m taking a snapshot of one of those episodes and just hitting it with fire, wordplay and delivery. First and foremost, I’m an emcee so I care a lot about lyrics and how things are structured and that was something I thought about including on this single.

Your past singles were less playful and much intense in content than “These Are The Songs”. How did you loosen up?

I think I’ve always been a happy person, but anyone who listens to my full body of work will tend to hear the conscious side of me. On the rear, there is another side to me, but maybe the singles that I have put out haven’t really reflected that as much. I feel more liberated with the direction that I’m now taking. I’m in a situation with a new management team [He is managed by his cousin], we’re just keeping it real and in the family. I think that for me in return contributes good music.

There’s this moment on “These Are The Songs” where you’re just talking to the listener, the bit about “I was a little man, chocolate boy and the girls knew the sugar was sweeter.“

No one has not done that yet, you’re the first person who has said those lyrics correctly [laughs]. If I’m honest, I’m just writing from the heart about stuff that comes to me. I think people can now relate more to me because I’m being real to myself. I believe if you’re real to yourself as a person, you’ll be able to feed off that.

I feel since you’ve emerged a cult following has grown around you. I want to talk to you about your debut single “Black Boys”. I love the message and the themes featured in that song.

I’m an independent artist and for the best part of ten years I’ve been doing this on my own, and I think that’s why people really believed in the song. We’ve never had a major label behind us and even up to this point we’ve done everything on our own. In terms of what “Black Boys” was representing; I wanted an inspirational song that people could always listen to and feel like they could go out and achieve whatever they want. I also wanted to send a message to black boys to know that there are other routes in life. They don’t need to be feeling down like how the media and society want them to feel.

As you mentioned, you release your music independently, but if you could make a record, with no limits on the budget, what would you try to make?

I would make a critically acclaimed album that is fully focused on music – no gimmicks. It would be straight talking material from the heart. I don’t think a big-name producer would be necessary, there are loads of people coming up who are also great.

In your music you sound like a defender of the underdog—someone who has constantly been on the side of working much harder than others. What has your crossover brought you so far?

I think if you believe in yourself, and you work hard you can literally achieve anything. I don’t want to say cheesy lines or anything, but I’m here giving hope to people. You don’t need to wait around for people to give you a hand – get up, work hard and do it yourself. That’s how I feel. I came from nothing, like a lot of other people have, but I just want to inspire people to shift society’s perception and believe in themselves. Even though, we’re living in difficult times people need to know it’s not the end.

You’ve talked before about wanting to merge different genres of music. What do you mean by that, and what does it mean to you?

It’s about me being as genuine as I can and using influences that first got me into music. I’m a lyricist so things that are interesting to me, I will talk about it. I don’t want to try to be another artist. I just want to be myself and make music for everyone.

But it takes someone with a great deal of front to knock down that wall for people to really take notice.

I think I’ve always been flying the flag for creativity and doing things myself. I always do the best for my career, pushing the boundaries and achieving more than what people would expect. I’ve always done that, so now I’m just going to continue to go even harder.  

Do you carry around a notepad with you to write lyrics?

It depends where I am because sometimes I’ll have my lyric book with me and if I don’t I’ll just record a voicenote. I think I’m quite creative in always finding a way to drop down my ideas.

What’s your ultimate dream collaboration?

Bob Marley. I loved everything he stood for musically, and I love the fact that his music is still relevant now.

Did this just feel like a therapy session?

Yeah. It was actually really hilarious because after each answer you were constantly saying, “Hmm”. [laughs] That was funny.

Bashy’s single ‘These Are The Songs’ will be released on September 8. For more info, click here.

The post Interview: Bashy, “The People’s Champ,” Discusses His New Single and Coming Up From Nothing appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

A new exhibit out of Milan is turning Compact Discs (remember those, kids?) into great works of art. “Piracy,” conceived by Mirco Pagano and Moreno De Turco, uses over 6,500 CDs and took more than 200 hours to complete.

The artists take musician’s greatest hits albums and use them in a collage to make up their portrait. The portraits include Michael Jackson, Jimmy Hendrix, James Brown, Bob Marley and others. You can view the entire exhibit here.

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