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Maurice Griffin Sends Across a Message of Hope Through Chart-Topping Single “Love Peace Happiness”

Music Observer Staff on February 6, 2021

No industry managed to remain unaffected by the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak. In particular, the music industry witnessed the halt of not only the endeavors of established artists but also the pursuits of aspiring musicians who were aiming to make a name for themselves doing something they love. Independent artists and those unsupported by the resources of major labels suffered the most as a consequence of the instability in the music scene. While it was definitely no walk in the park for Maurice Griffin, this rising artist paved his own path to success even amidst a global pandemic by creating opportunities for growth.

Worldwide, the government-imposed lockdowns and community quarantines forced people indoors. From making dalgona coffee to following exercise routines on Youtube, everyone coped with this unprecedented event to the best of their ability by engaging in different activities. In the case of Maurice Griffin, he spent his time penning songs. Instead of writing about the memories — specifically that of a relationship that ended badly — triggered by the pandemic, he chose to write about something else entirely. “I chose to write about self-care since I knew it was the only thing I had control over,” he expounds, and this decision led to the release of “Love Peace Happiness.”

Released last September, “Love Peace Happiness” — a song of hope — quickly made an impact among listeners globally. On top of gracing editorial playlists, this impressive track by Maurice Griffin gained over 9 placements with DSPs, racking up more than 500,000 streams. Additionally, its music video earned over 900,000 views shortly after its launch on Facebook January 6, 2021, and over 100,000 Youtube views. The heights that this song has reached so far are not surprising when one considers the skills of this multi-faceted personality. 

Maurice Griffin first made waves as a breakout star from the second season of BET’s Sunday Best, capturing the attention and gaining massive interest online with his incredible vocal range. Soon afterward, he catapulted into the music scene’s forefront, becoming one of the most sought-after worship leaders of Gospel Music Workshop of America, an international music convention. 

This talented go-getter is the creative behind the chart-topping single “Prove Me (I’m Yours,” which peaked at 26 on the Gospel Radio Billboard Chart and climbed to the top 15 on Gospel Mediabase Charts. Maurice Griffin, whose voice some people match to that of Aretha Franklin, James Brown, John Legend, Pharrell Williams, and more, also evolved into an influencer and trendsetter within the industry through his numerous initiatives. He stands at the helm of World Changing Entertainment, LLC, a music production company that seeks to enable the success of budding musicians and aspirants. 

Armed with his purpose-driven venture and meaningful songs, Maurice Griffin is bound to cement his position within the music scene even more solidly in the future. In addition, more songs that speak of the good things life has to offer can also be expected from this emerging powerhouse in the coming years. 

Learn more about Maurice Griffin by visiting his Youtube channel.

Cameron Hardy, an Up-and-Coming Artist Set to Debut in 2021

Music Observer Staff on February 5, 2021

Today, singer-songwriter Cameron Hardy awaits the highly anticipated release of his debut single. The forthcoming project—including co-writes from industry powerhouses such as Delacey (Halsey’s #1 hit “Without Me,” Zara Larsson’s “Ruin My Life”), ROLLO (Ava Max’s Certified GOLD “So Am I,” Noah Cyrus’ “Lonely”), Ryan Ogren (Maroon 5’s “Nobody’s Love”)—will hit streaming services this spring.

Collaborating with creative director Amber Park, the captivating debut video will unveil the world of Cameron Hardy, driven by expensive, elevated, iconic elements and overall luxurious visual identity. The video will premiere exclusively on YouTube Music/VEVO.

Of the debut track and forthcoming project, Hardy says, “It feels so good to finally be releasing the first single so soon! I’ve spent years locked in a studio, figuring out who I am as an artist and I’m ready to reveal that to the world. A theme that resonates throughout the project, ‘I Thought You were Lonely’ is about the pain that comes with losing someone after being at your most vulnerable. It also touches on the duality of the heartbreak and gratitude, something that you often go through at the end of a relationship.”

Cameron has a social following that reaches an audience of over 11.5 thousand on Instagram. Cameron teased the debut track on his Twitter. You can listen to it here. 

2021 sees Hardy commanding complete creative control through writing his own songs, producing and creating his own visuals—further solidifying himself as an embodiment of the modern-musical generation.

Learn more about Cameron Hardy through his website, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube channel.

2K Ponce Juno — The “Soul Man” Is Back with a New Remix

Music Observer Staff on February 5, 2021

Originality in the music scene is a dying attribute, but one artist from New York is putting in work to retain the originality in the music art. With a heavy influence of Caribbean sound on his Hip-Hop sound, 2K Ponce Juno creates a danceable tune that his audience has come to love over the years. His 2019 smash hit, “Go Pretty Girl” gave him massive traction, and he released a remix to the song on January 15, 2021. In the remix, 2K Ponce Juno teamed up with Jamaican Dancehall legend DJ, King Beenie Man and sultry Jamaican singer, Princess Double K.

2K Ponce Juno has put in work over the course of his career and has scored some collaborations with other talented artists. His latest song, “Go Pretty Girl Remix,” produced by Max, has generated a lot of buzz in the mainstream Jamaican media and entertainment space. His reputation as an internationally recognized artist signed to Sony Music Group has played a huge role in promoting his music and craft as a whole.

“Go Pretty Girl Remix” is a song for the women and according to 2K Ponce Juno, he featured King Beenie Man on the remix because he needed someone who appeals to the female audience and can give the song the boost it needs. After his first album, “Concrete,” it is nearly impossible to disagree with 2K Ponce Juno’s style and strategy to export as much Caribbean and Reggae vibes as possible.

Beyond music, 2K Ponce Juno is a fashionable musician. He puts a great deal of effort into his wardrobe and styling, and Jamaican media has recognized him often for his style. He was recently announced as an ambassador for Kim Birkedal Hartmann’ Revanche Cognac which he has admitted to be one of the few things that have gotten him excited recently. “I’m surprised about the recognition. I cannot describe how honored I feel, but I am extremely thankful that the company believes in me and thinks me worthy of this role,” he says.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic broke out, he was on the Sony/Orchard and Mo Thugs Family’s “Most Blunted Tour.” During the pandemic, 2K Ponce Juno kept working behind the scenes to create timeless and entertaining music. He has also been actively involved in helping people around him as he believes that anybody that gives is bound to win some time.

2K Ponce Juno’s goal for his music is to make people happy. He wants people to listen to Hip-Hop and feel good about it. In his words, “Music is good for the soul, and I want to make more music to help people feel good.” He is open to collaborations with both independent and mainstream artists over the next few years. With his new single, he hopes to cement himself as a force to reckon with in the Hip-Hop world and propel his brand to global status.

Learn more about 2K Ponce Juno on his official website. Also follow him on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter pages.

Santana Da Don Delivers a Fresh Sound into the Rap Community

Music Observer Staff on February 4, 2021

Rising up the ranks of musical significance is a feat that not many have accomplished in their lifetime. That’s why for the rapper and New Jersey artist Santana Da Don, gratitude is but the natural response. Through the years, the musician has overcome many hurdles and challenges to create a solid reputation as a high-quality, hard-hitting musician with a brand and sound of his own. 

Around 2007 to 2009 is when Santana first started building a crowd. At that time, the artist was pretty fresh in music, not to mention young. The rapper began performing when he was still a teenager and proved to be worthy of joining more prominent leagues as his music helped shape the local sound. Santana’s music would become a vital piece to defining the melodic and rhythmic signature that music lovers now brand New Jersey with all across the nation. 

Building his career up to where it is now was not an effortless journey for Santana Da Don. Early on, he faced a lot of challenges. The third child of a young mother, he had to learn how to fend for himself. Coming from trials hardened Santana and built him up to become resilient despite all mountains faced. 

The artist moved around a lot, transferring to thirteen different schools. Having no roots would prove a negative factor as he would struggle with the law on certain occasions. Santana faced legal problems and would spend some time in county jail. Upon his release, he moved to the state of Ohio to start fresh and do it right this time around. Today, he has turned over a new leaf and built a life with one passion and focus: music. 

Growing up, Santana Da Don picked up a lot from Jay-Z, who remains to be the artist’s most prominent influence to date. Despite taking inspiration from other artists, he seeks to always make his music his own. Santana aims to develop new songs and material that sounds different and becomes a source of influence and inspiration for other artists.

The artist’s most popular song to date is the track “Boss Bitch,” which continues to make rounds on digital channels. Santana is also easy to work with as his many collaborations with other artists attest to his commitment to building up a network of artists that deliver quality music all the time. He has worked on collaborations with artists like Kbreazy, King Mike Drilla, Scrooge, and many others. 

What makes Santana Da Don’s music special is the raw honesty he injects into his tracks. “My music explains it all,” shares the artist. Santana doesn’t hold anything back when writing about his life experiences and learnings, remaining authentic throughout. The artist finds no need being someone else, confident that his personality, sound, and presence can help him transform into a household name for rap fans all over. Currently, he has released his music across various platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, ITunes, YouTube, Amazon, Pandora, Tidal, Thriller, Twitch, Shazam, I Heart Radio, Tik Tok, and Google Play.

Santana Da Don aims for nothing less than music greatness, committing himself to become better and continually evolving his craft. He hopes to one day perform on big stages all over the east coast and beyond. 

To check out Santana Da Don’s music and life, visit his Spotify and Instagram.

Qonran Makes Waves With Unique Artistry and Discography

Music Observer Staff on February 3, 2021

Making oneself known in an industry already brimming with household names and prominent figures is a daunting task. In the music realm, establishing a reputable standing requires more than sheer talent and raw skill. As aptly shown by up-and-coming artist qonran, embracing authenticity and celebrating individuality have allowed him to share his outstanding beats, striking lyrics, and remarkable melodies with the world. 

As someone who has always been in tune with his creative side, qonran decided to tap into his musical flair and embarked on a journey as an artist. With how competitive and challenging it is, the music industry is not something most people would readily dip their toes into. However, the rising artist was armed with an incomparably dauntless mindset that compelled him to pursue his dreams. 

Being a multifaceted creator, qonran keeps an open mind and enjoys other activities like photography, hiking, camping, skateboarding, and many more. With his adventurous spirit, he also inspires many people to live life to the fullest and to give their endeavors the best with all they have. 

Standing at the helm of a flourishing career, qonran is making significant waves in the world of music with his discography. Although the artist is already gifted with an innate talent for music, he explains that his main weapon is his originality and authenticity. He expressed that his songs are products of his subconscious influence from different types of music. 

In an interview, qonran shared that his music is versatile and can range from various genres and vibes. Apart from being accompanied by amazing rhythms, his musical creations are also embedded with profound and meaningful messages. Indeed, the artist knows how to keep his fans on their toes by bringing something fresh and new to the table. 

By being true to himself, qonran is able to produce pieces that are unlike any other. In this way, he has not only managed to take center stage but he has also proven that being unique is a powerful tool in pursuing dreams and accomplishing goals. “I do my own thing and I am not a copy of anyone else,” the artist said. 

In the coming years, qonran seems himself at the pinnacle of his career. According to him, the legacy that he wants to leave in the industry is his determination to help success-driven individuals achieve their dreams by encouraging them to be relentless with their pursuits. The artist also wishes to continue exploring new styles of music and expanding his horizons. He even looks forward to starting a record label company geared towards aspiring artists. 

As one of the foremost advocates of bringing success to others, qonran is adamant about using his talent to give assistance and guidance. Aside from taking significant strides toward the forefront of the music industry, this must-watch artist also serves as the much-needed voice for those who wish to take their dreams to greater heights. 

Know more about qonran by streaming his music on Spotify or YouTube. 

Kweku Smoke Rising Above all Odds in the African Music Scene

Music Observer Staff on February 2, 2021

As a musician born in Africa, Kweku Smoke has his eyes set on joining the long list of musicians who have put Africa on the global map. On a musical journey with different influences, Kweku Smoke is steadily working his way up to fame and success. Born Paul Amankwa in Kumasi, Ghana, Kweku Smoke is one of the most highly rated rappers in Ghana, and his latest album, “Snoop Forever,” is a testament to that.

Early in his life, he set out to become a lawyer, a plan that was overridden by his brother’s influence. As a child, Paul followed his brother to the recording studio anytime his brother went to record songs. He would watch his brother closely as he rehearsed and recorded songs, and his interest in music was piqued. Soon, he began to listen to his brother’s music CDs and fell in love with Hip-hop and rap lyrics.

Everything about watching his brother create music played a huge role in his career, and as his passion for music grew, his interest grew too. In 2018, Paul Amankwa started dropping freestyles under the stage name YRS and started gaining some traction on social media. He changed his stage name to Kweku Smoke in 2019 shortly before he met famous rapper, Sarkodie who endorsed him on social media.

Meeting Sarkodie changed things for him, and they both created a song together titled “Yedin.” “Yedin” became a catchy anthem in Ghana, which gave Kweku Smoke some popularity in the Ghanaian music scene, and many people began to follow Kweku Smoke’s music. Since the collaboration happened, he has been working on building a name for himself and growing his brand as a musician. On the 18th of December, Kweku Smoke released his album titled “Snoop Forever,” an album dedicated to his late brother, who went by the name Snoop when he was alive.

Losing his brother, who single handedly influenced his entire career changed things for Kweku Smoke. According to him, he had other ideas for his album, but his brother’s death made him overhaul the idea to create an album that pays tribute to him.

“After my brother’s death, I went back to the studio to record all over again because all I felt at the time was keeping his memory alive. My brother is the reason I make music today, and naming my album after him was one of the least things I could have done to honor his memory. It relieves me that the album is out and doing numbers, and I know he will be proud and happy wherever he is,” Kweku Smoke says. 

The album addresses a lot of societal issues in Africa while also talking about the challenges he went through while building his career. Kweku Smoke is all about inspiring the next generation to be successful and showing them that they can achieve it if they truly want it.

Learn more about Kweku Smoke on his Instagram page, and watch his music video, “On the Streets,” here. His album is also available for streaming here.

Hollywood Turk Is the Rising Rapper Making a Significant Mark in the Hip-Hop Industry

Music Observer Staff on February 2, 2021

Leaving his hometown in North Carolina with no job and only $250 in his pocket, rising rapper Hollywood Turk had nothing with him except a vision he was determined to pursue. That vision was to make a significant name for himself in the industry through his powerful gift in music. Today, he finds himself in the process of transforming that vision into reality as his tracks gain traction in various places, impacting listeners with his sick beats and impactful lyricism. 

Born on August 18, 1986, Hollywood Turk was raised by his parents in a Christian environment in Forest City, North Carolina. Growing up in a small city with very few job opportunities, he knew that exploring bigger places was the only way he could achieve his grand aspirations in life. At the early age of 12 years old, he discovered his talent in rapping. Inspired by the late rap legend Tupac, Hollywood began to venture into freestyle rapping. By 2009, he created his first track but never really became fond of it. Following his first attempt at making a hit song, he collaborated with his cousin K Slay and produced a song that took off. This marked the beginning of his career in the music arena. 

It was 2010 when the rap artist finally decided to move to California with his close high school friend TJ. Driving to California in TJ’s Mercedes Benz, Hollywood Turk carried only $250 in his pocket. For two years, they lived with TJ’s parents and slept on their couch before finally being able to get their own place.  Although this journey was filled with challenges, Hollywood Turk had his eyes on pursuing his dream in the industry.

Ceoz Str8 Cash Dominating the Music Industry With Upcoming Single

Music Observer Staff on February 1, 2021

Ceoz Str8 Cash, born Michael Aalil, is a young drill rapper and all-song artist from Morocco but immigrated to the United States with his parents when he was five years old. The price of stardom sometimes may be steep and the path to success rough, but for Ceoz, his eyes have always been on the prize, and he has done everything possible to stay on course. He had a difficult childhood as he could hardly understand a word of English and got into countless trouble, going in and out of jail as he skipped school, smoked weed, and sold drugs.

Ceoz found his love for creating music through his trouble, although he did not take it too seriously. In 2015, he made friends in his neighborhood in Queens, NYC. His new friends were also artists, and they encouraged him to take his passion for music to the next level as a drill artist and later as an all-song artist. 

However, in 2017, Ceoz would experience another rough patch that would change his life. He was arrested for an attempted murder case and was sentenced to three years behind bars. Throughout his trial and jail sentence, Michael never lost hope and held on to music to comfort him. For those years in incarceration, he had a high level of optimism, and his love for music deepened as he crafted original pieces second to none and anticipated his return to the free world.

Now that Ceoz Str8 Cash is back, he dominates the entertainment industry with his music, going viral on digital platforms like YouTube and SoundCloud. He dropped his first song in July 2020 titled, Hold On Wait. The piece soon broke viral records as his unique sound captured music lovers’ hearts around the world. He soon followed his first single with another single titled, Top Opp. He also collaborated with other music artists in the industry, including Drizzy Juliano and OMB Jaydee. He has two songs with OMB Jaydee titled, What Happen, and This Party. He is currently working on his mixtape to be released soon. 

As Michael Aalil embarks on his musical journey as Ceoz Str8 Cash, great things await him because of his dauntless determination and his unwavering love for music. In a separate interview, Ceoz revealed the importance of music to him and shared that it took him away from all violent acts on the streets. He believes his only competition should be with himself as he continues to build his musical career. He is very transparent about his personal and professional journey, and fans and other artists appreciate his hard work.

The number of sleepless nights spent on mastering his craft and his dedication level is worth every accolade he receives. Ceoz Str8 Cash’s story will continue to inspire and motivate everyone. He rose from an immigrant child with a difficult childhood to an incarcerated man and finally to where he is now a musical icon.

To learn more about Michael Aalil music, you may visit his YouTube Channel.

Tony Mandeville Promotes Music and Fitness Amidst Health Crisis

Music Observer Staff on February 1, 2021

In the time of the pandemic, the coronavirus crisis made the world kneel, many people around the world have turned to music during this crisis. Some individuals put their headphones on for the entire day while some resort to YouTube. People do anything to connect to the world through art. This act can help maintain a sense of community.

Like other artists who shed light through sound, a new song titled ‘Come Together’ is being released by a rising artist Tony Mandeville. Kirkland, Washington-born, fitness model, and musical artist, Tony Mandeville created a song that speaks of positivity amidst these turbulent days in which the world was suffering from the global health crisis. The song ‘Come Together’ was created to promote peace. The negative effects and the horrible conditions of the coronavirus compelled him to produce a song that asks all to bind their hands and stand together in the face of the coronavirus as one.

Tony Mandeville continues to be involved in the areas of work he enjoys, apart from composing and creating music that encourages hope and optimism. He continuously releases new material by traveling and interacting with his groups to assist other people. The aspiring musical artist has always stemmed his life around art rooted in intention since then.

At the early age of 8 years old, Tony Mandeville discovered his passion for music and exercise. To sustain these areas, he has maintained a simple, disciplined, and consistent lifestyle. He has utilized the time to his advantage and now, aside from making art, by becoming their mentor, self-improvement instructor, and lifestyle model, he guides others to give priority to health and fitness.

“I have continued to be active in music and fitness for twenty years straight,” he says. “I am now 28 years old. Now I help others leverage time into personal growth and freedom. Delivering hope and purpose since 2001.”

Tony Mandeville calls for all to remain fit and safe in their place. He assumes that as long as individuals know how to come together, there is no end to optimism and intention.

In the time of the pandemic, Tony believes that it is vital for family members to take a supportive role in promoting physical activities that improve wellness. Stress-related to the growth of the COVID-19 pandemic have accumulated within every individual’s system of living. It can create a threat to health, and also our communities.

“I would say I stand out by being able to balance my professions while maintaining a healthy lifestyle for myself,” Tony says. “I have enough energy to still give back to the community.”

Tony knew how staying unhealthy can be dangerous to the overall wellness of a person. A dose of hope, passion, and positivity must be prioritized in the lives within the community.

The fitness enthusiast-cum-musician understood that supporting one’s society, especially the younger generation, can have a huge effect on the lives of the individuals in it. He ensures to continue releasing content through his song and being a fitness model that propels people to improve not just their physical aspect, but also their mental, moral, and emotional dimensions.

Learn more about Tony Mandeville through his Linktree account.

Ken Dior Brings Positive Vibes Through His Music

Music Observer Staff on January 28, 2021

Ken Dior is a young artist from Portsmouth, Virginia, who uses music to express himself for a better good. In a time of global crisis, music has become a haven and has provided warmth to a lot of people. Ken Dior also uses his voice for the people who are afraid to speak up. He believes that a positive voice is needed when people are enveloped with struggles.

What separates him from other rising artists is his vocals. Ken Dior gives a hundred percent of authentic and true vocals that other aspiring and rising artists, or even music superstars, struggle to achieve. He also creates a vibe that fits with any genre. Ken Dior achieved this because he had broken through his comfort zone and found himself, which resulted in bringing authentic music for the audience.

Ken Dior says, “I want to target the people that want to learn and overcome their problems and are willing to take any risk to reach their goals. I hope my story can help those that are looking for hope.”

Ken Dior does not aim for only one genre of music. He is open to all possibilities, as long as he can fully express himself through what he is truly passionate about: creating music.

He emphasized himself as a recording artist rather than a rapper, and his genuine style of music is rooted in his personal life. Like everyone else, he had overcome his challenges and turned the pain into music. His life before he focused on becoming an inspiring recording artist was filled with failures. He has also experienced living in poverty, which threatened his journey to achieving his dream.

“People give up every day on their dream because they feel trapped in a position they can’t get out of at the time or don’t know how to take the next forward towards their goals,” he says. “I believe in patience, timing, and just a persistent and nonstop work ethic, but lastly, having unwavering faith in what you believe in.” With faith, Ken Dior believes that a person can be unstoppable.

In the future, he sees his team performing at the Grammys or at halftime shows, but what is important for him is that through his music, he can help others to reach their dreams and be able to achieve things they never even dreamed of.

Times like these, where everyone is forced to stay at home to keep themselves safe, can give an intense feeling of detachment and lack of sense of belonging. Unfortunately, it can also lead one to lose their feeling of value in the community. Ken Dior’s music can help people to overcome this feeling. In this time, music can become a powerful instrument to uplift everyone who feels down and devastated. Recording artists like Ken Dior use their passion and energy to give warmth to the listeners for them to cope with what they have lost, and most of all, for everyone in this world to stay connected.