Zmajor Mega Star
From childhood memories of pretending to be in a band with his sister and cousin to freestyling in cars with friends, Zmajor’s love for music has always been a constant. “I’ve loved music since I was a kid,” he says. “My sister Zoriyah and my cousin Ashley used to act like we were in a band—it was great times.” This early bond with music turned into something more serious as Zmajor grew older. “Me and my homies were freestyling in the car, and after one of those sessions, my homie KD was like, ‘We need to get in a studio.’ And boom, here we are.” Music wasn’t just a hobby—it became a way of life. Themes and Messages in His Music Zmajor’s work is deeply personal, rooted in the experiences that have shaped him. “Some songs are about what I’ve seen growing up, what I went through, or what I’m dealing with now,” he explains. Yet, his ultimate goal is to offer a more positive message. “I want to have more of a positive message in my music, and that’s something I’m working on,” he shares. Artistic Style and Process When it comes to his style, Zmajor prides himself on his creativity, especially when it comes to beat selection and wordplay. “I think I’m creative when it comes to beat selection and wordplay. I normally just go off the top of my head when I record,” he says. This improvisational approach allows him to capture raw, unfiltered emotion, making each track feel authentic and fresh. Influences in His Music While Zmajor doesn’t cite specific artistic movements, his musical influences are clear. “I listen to a lot of Kodak Black, Rod Wave, Young Thug, Gunna, and JayDaYoungan, so I guess you can say they’re the reason I like music,” he admits. These artists have inspired Zmajor’s unique sound, blending street narratives with melodic flows and emotional depth. The Most Challenging Song Creating music isn’t always easy, and Zmajor recalls one of his toughest experiences in the studio: “The song ‘Why You Lyin’ ft Kay/dee and Tré Si, on my new EP ‘Major Redemption,’ was probably the most challenging.” The challenge came when his friend Luke hosted an impromptu 3v3 song competition in the studio. “We had 10 minutes to find a beat and 10 minutes to record it to see who had the best song.” Despite the time pressure, Zmajor’s team came out on top, with “Why You Lyin” winning the challenge. “That experience taught me how to come up with lyrics off the top of my head and how to record songs quickly,” he reflects. Creative Process and Inspiration Zmajor’s creative process is grounded in his surroundings. “My inspiration is my surroundings. I talk about things I’ve seen, lived, or am living,” he explains. He often turns real-life experiences into art, adding humor or lightness to tough situations. “Some of my songs I make jokes out of my situations,” he shares. “Like if something happens, I’ll take a mental note or write it down and say, ‘Oh yeah, I’m going to talk about this right here.’” Advice for Emerging Artists For those just starting out in music, Zmajor’s advice is simple yet powerful: “Stay true to yourself and don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t. If you have a dream, go catch it and don’t get complacent.” He draws inspiration from basketball legend Dwyane Wade, saying, “My favorite basketball player, Dwyane Wade, once said, ‘My belief is stronger than your doubt.’ I live by that, so with that being said, keep going and don’t give up.” Connect with Zmajor To follow Zmajor’s musical journey, you can find him on Instagram at @Zmajor_3. With his dedication, passion, and authenticity, Zmajor is undoubtedly an artist to watch as he continues to rise. With his genuine voice, undeniable talent, and drive, Zmajor is carving his path in the music world, bringing his Broward County roots to the forefront. Expect more from this emerging artist as he continues to develop his sound and share his story with the world. https://www.instagram.com/zmajor_3?igsh=MW5oeTdoemFtcnN5cQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Jordan Cordel: A Rising Star with a Vision
Jordan Cordel’s musical journey began at an early age, with church performances at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church in his hometown of Port Arthur, Texas. “I began singing at age 8,” he recalls. “That’s where it all started for me.” As a teenager, he honed his craft, winning multiple talent shows throughout high school, even securing three consecutive state wins in UIL solo competitions. His passion for music grew during college at Stephen F. Austin State University, and he eventually started a band at Lamar State College Port Arthur. After graduation, Jordan’s father encouraged him to pursue music professionally, a pivotal moment in his journey. “I briefly lived in Los Angeles and then moved to Austin in 2020 to finish school and focus on music,” Jordan says. Since then, he’s released over four EPs, a compilation album, and multiple music videos with thousands of views, all while completing both his bachelor’s and MBA degrees from the prestigious McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin. His dedication paid off when he placed in the Top 10 of the Coast 2 Coast Live World Championship in 2021, standing out as the only singer among all the competitors. Jordan has collaborated with legendary producers like Zaytoven, D Billy, and Bryan Michael Cox, and in 2024, he had the honor of performing the National Anthem twice for Texas Athletics on ESPN. “I’ve accomplished all of this as an independent artist,” he shares. “I can’t wait for someone to give me a shot—I decided to create those opportunities myself.” Creative Process Jordan’s creative process is anything but conventional. “Sometimes, ideas hit me based on real-life experiences, other times I’m inspired by another artist’s music, or even a beat I hear,” he says. “I’ve woken up in the middle of the night with a melody in my head and rushed to record it in my voice memos so I don’t lose the concept.” Jordan thrives in spontaneous creativity, and some of his most authentic tracks were made in one take, particularly during “R&B freestyle” sessions with friends. As for his working environment, Jordan enjoys isolation when writing lyrics but also welcomes collaboration with positive, like-minded individuals. “Good vibes only,” he laughs, emphasizing the importance of the right energy when creating. Challenges and Growth The road to success hasn’t been without its hurdles. “Where do I begin?” Jordan jokes when asked about the challenges he’s faced. “The industry is all about streaming numbers and going viral. Sometimes it feels like talent takes a backseat to meeting certain criteria.” He’s had to contend with unfulfilling record deals and even had songs and concepts taken by more established artists. Despite these setbacks, Jordan has remained true to himself and his vision. “I decided to stop waiting for someone else to give me a chance,” he shares. “I started releasing my own music, creating my own music videos, booking my shows, and networking. Now, I move like a boss.” Jordan believes that sometimes setbacks are what set you up for your breakthrough. Connecting with Fans Jordan’s fans are at the heart of his journey. He connects with them directly through social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, using these spaces to share his music and engage with his growing global audience. “My favorite fan experience is looking into the crowd and seeing someone sing my song word-for-word,” he says. “It’s a beautiful experience that I don’t take for granted.” In Austin, Jordan also performs live to engage with the local community, steadily growing his fanbase. When releasing music videos, he uses targeted ads to identify where his audience is, ensuring his music reaches the right ears. Upcoming Projects Looking ahead, Jordan is gearing up to release his highly anticipated debut album, You Made Me This Way, later this year. “It’s been three years in the making,” he shares. “I truly believe it’ll be one of the best R&B albums of 2025. But I’ll let the world decide that.” He’s also excited about his upcoming tour, which will accompany the album’s release, and his performance of the National Anthem for Texas Athletics at the Moody Center—his biggest stage yet. “There are more amazing opportunities coming up, but fans will have to stay tuned,” Jordan teases. Musical Influences Jordan’s musical influences are as varied as his sound. He admires legends like Michael Jackson, Luther Vandross, and Whitney Houston, striving to emulate their excellence and precision. He also draws inspiration from contemporary artists such as Bruno Mars, Usher, Chris Brown, Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, Brandy, and Lucky Daye. “These artists have helped me become unafraid to experiment with different sounds,” he explains. “As a singer, they inspire me to keep perfecting my craft, from my falsetto to my runs.” Social Impact While Jordan believes that musicians don’t always have to address social issues directly through their art, he’s passionate about using his platform to speak up. “It’s important to stand up and shine a light on the issues that matter, whether through social media or interviews,” he says. “My music isn’t necessarily political, but I’m always going to advocate for peace and love.” Advice for Aspiring Musicians Jordan’s advice for emerging artists is simple but powerful: “You have to believe in yourself more than anyone else does. Invest in yourself and don’t wait for someone else to create opportunities for you. Express yourself freely, don’t settle for less than your worth, and trust that if you have what it takes, the world will notice.” Jordan Cordel’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and self-belief. From his humble beginnings in Port Arthur to becoming a rising star in Austin’s music scene, Jordan is on the fast track to greatness. His upcoming album promises to be a defining moment in his career, and his unwavering commitment to his craft ensures that his star will only continue to rise. Follow Jordan Cordel: Instagram: @jordancordel Twitter: @jordancordel YouTube: Jordan Cordel YouTube TikTok: @jordan_cordel
Everton “E-Dee” Dennis: From Jamaica to Hollywood—A Story of Passion and Persistence
Not every artist gets to make waves in both the music and movie industries, but Everton “E-Dee” Dennis has done just that. With his unique mix of dancehall beats, heartfelt lyrics, and captivating on-screen performances, E-Dee has proven himself as a versatile and inspiring talent. From his roots in Jamaica to the bright lights of Hollywood, E-Dee’s story is one of hard work, resilience, and a refusal to give up. E-Dee grew up in Toll Gate, Clarendon, Jamaica, surrounded by the sounds of reggae, dancehall, and hip-hop. These genres played a big role in shaping his musical style. Losing his mom at a young age was a huge challenge, but music became his outlet. It helped him process his emotions and find comfort during tough times. As a teenager, E-Dee’s natural talent shone through. Whether it was performing at school talent shows or entertaining at local events, he had a knack for connecting with audiences. Those early performances built the foundation for his future career. E-Dee Chasing the Dream in LA Determined to take his music to the next level, E-Dee moved to Los Angeles. He studied at the Musicians Institute in Hollywood and the Theatre of Arts, where he honed his skills in both music and acting. Being in LA exposed him to new opportunities and allowed him to collaborate with talented artists and producers. In 2004, E-Dee signed with Unseen Lab Recordings, a major step forward. This partnership opened doors, helping him release professional tracks and build a name for himself in the competitive entertainment world. In 2005, E-Dee dropped “R U Ready,” the single that put him on the map. The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy hook caught the attention of fans and industry insiders alike. Following that success, his debut album, JA 2 LA 2 DI World, showcased his ability to blend dancehall, reggae, and hip-hop in a way that felt fresh and authentic. Collaborations with artists like Irie Love and Ms. Triniti added even more flavor to the project. Making a Mark on Screen E-Dee’s talents don’t stop with music. In 2011, he made his acting debut in the film Out the Gate, a story inspired by his own life. The movie was a hit, showcasing E-Dee’s ability to bring depth and charisma to the big screen. This success led to more roles in films like GangLand the Musical, Mother-In-Law, and Chocolate City 3. Each performance demonstrated his range and reinforced his position as a multi-talented entertainer. E-Dee’s music has a way of breaking barriers. His songs have been featured in big-name films like I Think I Love My Wife, How She Move, and Like Mike 2: Streetball. On TV, his tracks have added energy to shows like Greek, Blue Bloods, and Bring It!. This crossover appeal highlights his ability to connect with different audiences, making his music as versatile as his acting. E-Dee’s hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. As a US Billboard artist, he’s achieved milestones that many dream of. His chart-topping hits and growing fan base reflect his global appeal. From Jamaica to Europe, Africa, and beyond, E-Dee’s music resonates with fans everywhere. Awards and Collaborations Over the years, E-Dee has earned accolades for his work. His song “Revolution” with Irie Love was nominated for Best Collaboration at the EME Awards, and his album Elevate was considered for a Grammy in the reggae category. Featuring stars like Wayne Wonder, I-Octane, and Glen Washington, the album highlighted his ability to collaborate with some of the biggest names in the industry. E-Dee’s authenticity is a big part of his appeal. His music often carries messages of hope, resilience, and personal growth. Whether he’s drawing from his own experiences or speaking to the struggles of others, E-Dee’s songs have a way of uplifting and inspiring listeners. His ability to blend traditional dancehall with modern styles creates a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. E-Dee’s journey from Jamaica to Hollywood is far from over. With his growing success in both music and acting, he’s poised to reach even greater heights. His story is proof that talent, combined with hard work and determination, can open doors to incredible opportunities. As E-Dee continues to push boundaries and connect with fans, one thing is clear: his star is only going to shine brighter. For anyone chasing their dreams, his journey is a powerful reminder to stay focused, keep learning, and never give up.
GG Payso: Unleashing Authentic Energy with Toxicity
Houston-based hip-hop artist GG Payso is starting 2025 with a bang, releasing his much-anticipated EP, Toxicity. Hailing from the gritty streets of Acres Home, GG Payso, a 34-year-old father of two, has carved a lane for himself in the music industry with his distinctive blend of raw storytelling and energetic soundscapes. Drawing from his personal experiences and inspired by the likes of NBA YoungBoy and Jay-Z, GG Payso brings depth, emotion, and authenticity to his music. With Toxicity, Payso delves into the themes of toxic relationships, self-reflection, and perseverance. The six-track project explores the highs and lows of love, life, and growth, offering fans a deeply personal yet universally relatable narrative. Tracklist for Toxicity Pepperoni Chalkboard Toxic Love Glad to Know Me Do This Relay Exploring the Themes of Toxicity GG Payso’s Toxicity is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a journey into the emotional and mental spaces that define life’s most challenging moments. The EP’s title reflects its central focus on the chaos, allure, and complexity of toxic relationships. This theme is perhaps most evident in the standout track, “Toxic Love,” which unpacks the push-and-pull dynamics of love that can be both captivating and destructive. In “Glad to Know Me,” GG Payso shifts gears to focus on self-reflection and growth. The track serves as an anthem for self-appreciation, celebrating the journey of overcoming adversity and embracing one’s true self. Meanwhile, “Do This” and “Relay” showcase GG Payso’s ability to balance introspection with high-energy vibes, ensuring the EP resonates with a wide audience. The EP also brings a playful edge with tracks like “Pepperoni” and “Chalkboard,” demonstrating Payso’s versatility as an artist. These tracks highlight his unique lyrical style and his ability to deliver a mix of humor and grit, making Toxicity a well-rounded project that caters to various moods and tastes. From Acres Home to the World GG Payso’s journey as an artist has been anything but easy. Growing up in Acres Home, one of Houston’s most rugged neighborhoods, Payso faced challenges that shaped both his character and his music. His ability to turn life’s trials into creative fuel is a testament to his resilience and determination. For GG Payso, music is more than a career—it’s an outlet. He describes the creative process as stepping into “a different realm,” allowing him to channel his emotions and experiences into something tangible and impactful. This ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level is what sets GG Payso apart in the crowded hip-hop landscape. Payso credits his unique sound to the influences of NBA YoungBoy and Jay-Z. From YoungBoy, he learned to experiment with different pitches and tones, adding emotional intensity to his music. Jay-Z, on the other hand, taught him the power of poetic lyricism, helping him craft songs that are both thought-provoking and relatable. A Legacy Built on Perseverance GG Payso’s resilience shines through not just in his music but in his personal life as well. He speaks openly about the struggles of pushing forward, especially during times when support felt scarce. “You gotta keep going and make them respect your movement,” he says, encapsulating the mindset that has driven his career. One of the most poignant moments in Payso’s journey was filming his first music video with his younger brother, CMK Chinio. That experience remains a cherished memory, especially following Chinio’s passing. Payso honors his brother’s legacy through his music, ensuring that his impact lives on. Payso’s family remains a significant source of inspiration. His son, who proudly calls him his favorite rapper, serves as a constant reminder of why he continues to push boundaries and strive for greatness. What’s Next for GG Payso? With Toxicity marking a strong start to the year, GG Payso has no plans of slowing down. Fans can look forward to the release of his next standout single, “Reveal,” which promises to be a game-changer. Additionally, Payso is already working on a new album set to drop later this year, giving fans plenty to anticipate. In addition to his musical projects, GG Payso is also focused on creating captivating visuals to accompany his tracks. Songs like “Target Practice” and “Shiesty Flow” have already set a high bar for his music videos, and fans can expect even more engaging content in the months ahead. Final Thoughts GG Payso’s Toxicity is a testament to his growth as an artist and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level. By blending raw storytelling with dynamic soundscapes, he has created a project that is both personal and universally relatable. As he continues to build his legacy, GG Payso remains a shining example of perseverance and authenticity in the hip-hop world. Whether it’s through his heartfelt lyrics, his energetic performances, or his unwavering determination, Payso is proving that he’s a force to be reckoned with. Be sure to check out Toxicity on all streaming platforms and follow GG Payso on social media to stay updated on his latest projects: Apple Music: GG Payso Instagram: iamggpayso YouTube: Target Practice | Shiesty Flow GG Payso is here to stay, and Toxicity is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting year for the Houston-based artist.