Ro James is an emerging contemporary R&B singer and songwriter based out of New York City. The son of a military veteran, James was born in Stuttgart, Germany and spent portions of his early life in New York, Indiana, Hawaii, Oklahoma, and Texas.

James later signed to major-label RCA, where he released the Willie Hutch-sampling single “Permission,” a collaboration with Soundz and Verse Simmonds, in 2015. El Dorado, James’ debut album, was issued the following May.

“…. Stay true to your artistry and craft.” – Ro James

In the short interview above, the good folks over at HYPEFRESH, Inc. asked James to give his top tips for today’s aspiring youth striving to succeed in the music industry. Watch as he spills the secrets to accommodate the young and hungry for success.

Young people – pay very close attention.

In a vast media world driven by abstract creatives, we all can agree—it takes more than just “skills” to succeed in the music business. Competition is at an all time high nowadays.

Head over to iTunes today to buy Ro James’s debut LP here.

The post Ro James Gives His Top Tips To Aspiring Youth In Music appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Who doesn’t love an exquisite piece of jewelry, especially one so beautifully designed with raw crystals and gold elements. RESPECT. Mag has partnered up with the New York-based brand, Aether 79, to give away one of it’s unique Citrine necklaces to one lucky winner.

Debuting in late 2014, Aether 79 has created a one of kind unisex jewelry collection from raw crystals and gold elements. Its unique take on the quintessential hip-hop chain and pendant has quickly made it a favorite amongst musicians and NYC club kids. With support from artists such as Ro James, Bridget Kelly, Chaz French, Chynna, and Kiesza, Aether 79 blends the worlds of metaphysics and urban culture in a way that has never been done before.

The retail value of the Citrine necklace is $265.00 and if you’re  interested in becoming the lucky winner all you’ll need to do is

1. Follow RESPECT. Mag @respectmag IG account
2. Follow @aether79 IG account and like 10 of their pictures with the hashtag #Giveaway

If you’re interested in learning more about the unique jewelry line please visit

Aether 79 Website

Aether 79 Instagram

Aether 79 Twitter

Aether 79 is also set to release its second collection in Fall 2016.

Suggested Articles:

RESPECT. Ticket Giveaway: Royce da 5’9″ At Baby’s All Right (6/11)

Christina Milian, Matt Barnes, Cassy Athena & More Celebrate E-Motion Art Show

The post RESPECT. Giveaway: Aether 79 Necklace appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

The Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk has finally opened up to the public after four years of planning, work and delayed construction. Mayor Bill de Blasio marked the official grand opening of the Amphitheater on June 29^th, 2016 with an honorary ribbon cutting ceremony, just in time for the annual 4^th of July holiday weekend. The $60 million investment venue, developed by iStar is expected to bring new affordable housing to the Coney Island area, more open space and should provide over 240 living-wage jobs.

The Amphitheater will be operated by LiveNation and assisted by Brooklyn Sports and Entertainment in programming and branding of the theater, the same company that oversees the Barclays Center’s business operations. The theater which already has a series of events lined up for the summer can seat up to 5,000 individuals. The main stage of the theater is built into the southern side of the landmarked Childs Building, which is set to be finishing off renovations on a new restaurant and a 400,000 square-foot greenspace set to open sometime next year in 2017.

Here’s a list of the ongoing performances at the Amphitheater for the month of July:

July 1: Impractical Jokers/ The Tenderloins

July 3: Sting & Peter Gabriel

July 4: The Beach Boys

July 9: Maxwell with Ro James

July 10: Hollywood Vampires Alice Cooper, Joe Perry, Johnny Depp

July 15: Jane’s Addiction with Dinosaur JR. and Nothing

July 16: 311 with special guest Matisyahu

July 17: The Kids Bop Kids

July 23: Slightly Stoopid with Sosa, Zion I, The Grouch, Eligh

July 26: Travis Scott with Metro Boomin

July 29: The art of Rap festival featuring Public Enemy, Ice-T, Naughty by Nature, Mobb Deep and more

July 30: Andrew Dice Clay- back in Brooklyn

July 31: Dark Star Orchestra

Suggested Articles

Rihanna Brings ‘Star Trek’ to Life in Visual for “Sledgehammer”

Kid Cudi Hints at Possible Pharrell Collaboration

The post The Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island is Finally Open appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

While Asher Roth isn’t necessarily the one you would think of when the word “sultry” comes to mind, he makes an appearance here on singer Ro James’ new smooth tune. The record is the first single off his upcoming EP, Jack, which is the follow-up to Coke. Blended Babies handle the production here for the ode to Lisa Bonet. Jack will be available August 19.

The post New Music: Ro James Feat. Asher Roth – “Lisa” appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.