“The chicks like Usher, but you don’t see him flaunting chicks. I guess he was married for a long time. I just thought it would be cool to put him in this context that I’ve never seen him in: Women like this dude; let’s put him in between a girl’s legs. I don’t know if Jonnetta, his mom, would be happy, but it made sense to me. The girl was a random model who shot for editorial for GQ, but they never used that shot. I was looking at the print and I was like, ‘This looks like where Usher should be.’”

Usher photo by K. Capello featured in RESPECT #2 published 2010.

About Kenneth Cappello

While working as a “drunk barback,” he “began building sets as a hired carpenter for this guy named David LaChapelle,” he shares. “I had no idea how huge he was when I got hired. I got onto his set and was like, Oh, shit, this is where photos come from—this is a photo studio, this is a stylist, this is where photos are made. That really cracked my head open to take what I had always done just as ‘this thing’ to another level.”

RESPECT.

The post Flash Moment: USHER by Photographic Wiz KENNETH CAPPELLO appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

By: Yung Zu

Atlanta rapper Yung Zu returns to the scene with his new single titled “Fire“. As he has captured the attention of his whole city, his authentic sound reaches new heights like never before. With the support of Atlanta music legends such as Usher, T.I., 2 Chainz, and Hip Hop super producer Jermaine Dupri, Zu has put in the work to be respected as a contender in the Hip Hop game.

Produced by June James(June The Jenius) and LilJuMadeTheBeat, this record solidifies Zu as one of the hottest newcomers in the game. His Atlanta upbringing and southern roots play out in his raw lyrical prowess. In the video, you will see this young rapper partying in a warehouse surrounding by beautiful woman playing with fire. One element of this release that is most notable is the shot of Zu walking out of a house burning and grass burning. That scene gave the song a more authentic feel.

You will hear this emcee say things such as “I’m lit you better not play with me I keep the K on me, cook a n***a  a** up like hibachi, I swear I’m on fire be hot like an arson”. His conscious tongue over trap beats, is a big part of why is original sound is reaching new heights in 2020.

Being heavily influenced by Hip Hop icons Jay Z, Lil Wayne, and Master P, Zu is on path to one day join the ranks of some of his favorite musical artists. “Fire” is proof that he has what it takes to make it big time in the music business.

Press play below to view Yung Zu’s newest video for his “Fire” single.

The post Atlanta Rapper Yung Zu Releases New “392” Single 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.

After LA weekly asked its readers last week if he holds the crown as the “reigning king of R&B,” and a recent social media feud on the topic (fueled by an IG video featuring Bellinger and Usher in the studio), Eric Bellinger didn’t hesitate to bring his A-game to the packed Avalon theater. The “legend” label was well-earned by both headliners as Ro James rocked the house with a lit live band and Bellinger gave the crowd hit after hit while they shouted out requests for their favorites. LT Hutton, producer of the “All Eyez on Me” Tupac biopic (and former head of A&R for Interscope Records), was honored as a legend as well, as he accepted an award for his excellence in the film and music industry. Everyone who attended is no doubt counting the days until the next installment of the show that just set a new standard for R&B concerts in Hollywood. It was indeed a legendary night!

The post Young Legend Nights with Eric Bellinger and Ro James Draws a Star-Studded Crowd to Hollywood appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

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Quavo – Quavo Huncho

Image credit: Quality Control/Motown/Capitol

Following Culture II at the top of the year, Migos‘ own Quavo has officially stepped out on his own with his debut solo album Quavo Huncho. The project is packed with 19 songs and features from all of your A-list favorites — Drake, Madonna (definitely need to check out the back story on that one), KiD CuDi, Cardi B, 21 Savage, Lil Baby, (his alleged boo) Saweetie and more. Of course, Offset and Takeoff contribute to their mate’s project as well.

Shy Glizzy – Fully Loaded

Image credit: 300/Glizzy Gang

Following last year’s well-received Quiet Storm, Shy Glizzy returns with his new album titled Fully Loaded (whether or not this is what used to be the long-awaited Ain’t For Everybody or a separate release is yet to be seen). Fully Loaded clocks in at 19 tracks with additional appearances from Rick Ross, Young Thug, (“Do You Understand” cohorts) Gunna and Tory Lanez, Q Da Fool, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Lil Uzi Vert, Smokepurpp and more.

Belly – Immigrant

Image credit: Roc Nation

I’m still vibing to Mumble Rap, but I’m happy that Belly has even more music for the masses today (especially that of the socially and politically-charged variety). Check out the 11-track offering Immigrant, which sees additional appearances from Meek Mill, Metro Boomin, The Weeknd, NAV, Yo Gotti, M.I.A. and more. Check that out below, along with a really dope interview Belly did with Hot 97.

Usher – “A”

Image credit: Brand Usher/RCA

Probably the most surprising big release out of the bunch comes from Usher, who — since the release of the sub-par Hard II Love back in 2016 — has found himself in the headlines for non-musical reasons. Now, he teams up with Zaytoven to deliver “A”, an 8-track project that sees appearances from Gunna and Future, making for a presumably more Trap-style release. The artwork looks to take inspiration from Virgil Abloh‘s now-popular Off-White labeling as well.

Ella Mai – Ella Mai

Image credit: 10 Summers/Interscope

After delivering some dope EPs and shattering records with her smash singles, Ella Mai (finally) drops off her self-titled debut album, which contains 16 tracks and appearances from Chris Brown, H.E.R. and John Legend. Check it out below.

WSTRN – DOU3LE 3AK

Image credit: Atlantic UK

From 3 to 2, WSTRN continue to keep it moving with great music. Today, they deliver a new project titled DOU3LE 3AK, which consists of 14 tracks and sees Haile and Louis Rei alonside the likes of Stefflon Don, Tiwa Savage, Mr Eazi and Skrapz. Stream below, along with a new visual for the Skrapz-assisted cut “Round Here.”

Keith Ape – Born Again

Image credit: 88rising

After blasting his way to the top of urban music with “IT G MA” (along with other notable collabs), Korean rapper Keith Ape finally delivers a new project titled Born Again. The 8-track offering sees additional features from wifisfuneral, Chief Keef and Yung Bans.

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The post NEW ALBUM FRIDAY: Quavo, Shy Glizzy, Ella Mai & More appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.

Chris Brown has been heavily promoting his new song “Party,” featuring Usher & Gucci Mane, which came out today. Just as soon as the track dropped, along came an official music video as well.

The video starts with Breezy trying to gain access into an underground club. But first, he must impress the gatekeeper with his dance moves. He wins them over with his song “Kriss Kross,” and once he enters, he continues to show his amazing dance skills.

Usher appears showing off a Cleveland Cavaliers NBA Championship ring on his finger. He then slides down the escalator to show off his choreography. This is just before Gucci Mane comes out stating “Party, party, party, like a n***a just got out of jail.”

The video was directed by Chris Brown himself and is the lead single off his eighth album, “Heartbreaks on a Full Moon,” due next year.

Join the “Party” below!

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The post Watch Chris Brown “Party” Feat. Usher & Gucci Mane appeared first on RESPECT. | The Photo Journal of Hip-Hop Culture.