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If the lyrics to “It’s Hard Out Here For A Pimp” sound familiar, then it’s likely because of its connection to the 2005 film “Hustle and Flow,” starring veteran actor Terrence Howard. Critics and fans could argue that his portrayal in the Memphis, TN-based movie is one of Howard’s most recognizable roles. In it, he makes a solid effort to adapt to the culture and lingo of the mid-Southern city. “My ability to connect with an audience, I feel, was born in Memphis with ‘Hustle & Flow’ and what we shot,” Howard said ahead of the 2023 premiere of “Showdown at the Grand,” per The Daily Memphian. He continued, “Something about that city brings out the very best in me, and maybe it’s just because the city is no frills. It is what it is.” While “Hustle and Flow” may be a high point in his career, it is not the peak. Howard has starred in several films and television shows, including the drama series “Empire” (2015) and movies such as “The Best Man” (1999) and “Iron Man” (2008). The...
If you’re of a particular age, the movie “Space Jam” brings on a bit of nostalgia. From seeing NBA legends in their prime on-court era to a multi-verse collision between reality and cartoon land, the 1996 film is considered a classic among many. Beyond the lead acting from NBA legend Michael Jordan and Bugs Bunny, “Space Jam” also has an all-star-led soundtrack that gives life to pivotal moments in the film. One of the songs from that era was Seal’s “Fly Like an Eagle.” But Seal’s hit-making capabilities didn’t start or end with his contribution to the film’s soundtrack. Seal was born on the outskirts of London, England, and began performing in local clubs to escape his impoverished childhood. According to Britannica, Seal used those early moments of singing and songwriting to build his name, leading to a 1987 production deal. However, it was not until 1990, when his song “Killer” with Adamski (Adam Tinley) became a hit, that Seal would get his major break. The song received...
If you hear the phrase “Another one,” there is likely one person that comes to mind: Khaled “DJ Khaled” Mohammed Khaled. via GIPHY DJ Khaled’s Early Beginnings DJ Khaled is mainly known for his musical production and DJing skills. However, his success did not begin with the massive collaborations that made him famous. The son of two Palestinian immigrants, DJ Khaled and his family had early roots in Louisiana before moving to Orlando, FL. Based on a CNBC report, his time in Orlando sparked the beginning of his musical career. At the age of 13, Khaled began his work as a DJ in his parent’s garage. Those humble beginnings would lead to Khaled acquiring small gigs as a DJ, being occasionally invited to work at nightclubs and play music at local studios. This type of work would earn him about $100 per week. Although he was making it work, CNBC further reports that the small gigs were not enough to sustain Khaled, and he had to move back in with his parents in New Orleans, LA, after they...
When people think about famous music artists, Michael Jackson has set the proverbial standard of how an album can have an impact. His impact is realized simply by asking the question, “What is their (insert artist) ‘Thriller?'” Because of that album’s massive influence and popular success, there is unspoken but loud pressure to create a musical body of work that can be unique and legacy-informing for artists. While some entertainers are still chasing a project like Jackson’s “Thriller,” the culture has agreed that some artists have accomplished that goal. Usher Raymond is among those, with the 2004 release of “Confessions.” Nurtured early in Chattanooga, TN, but cultivated in Atlanta, GA, Usher has been a consistent voice in music across decades. Although “Confessions” may be considered his defining album, Usher entered the music space with a self-titled project in 1994. However, his sophomore effort, “My Way,” captured the hearts of music listeners. From that point on, the...
A few names will come up in conversations about musical GOATS. From Michael Jackson to Aretha Franklin to Beyoncé, music fans have decades of musical options to tap into. But one could argue that no list is complete without the musical variety of Prince. Prince Rogers Nelson, commonly known as Prince, displayed musical talents at an early age that defined his long career of creativity. Throughout his tenure, he recorded classic hits such as “When Doves Cry,” “1999,” and his biggest chart-topping single and album — “Purple Rain.” It is well documented that the artist was adamant about owning the music he produced. And when he was entrenched in a legal battle relating to ownership, he went to what some might consider extreme measures to get his point across and fight for the creative freedom he desired.
Not everyone gets the opportunity for a second chance at life, so Nyene Baker isn’t taking his for granted. The Trenton, NJ, native’s previous path of being in the system began when he was arrested at age 10 and found himself on probation in the sixth grade. By high school, he started to sell drugs and get involved in other illegal activity. Baker’s behavior at the time resulted in his parents sending him to Liberia. However, when he returned to the U.S., he found himself back in a life of crime.
There’s no rock and roll without recognizing the Queen. Following the announcement of her passing on May 24 at the age of 83 , we remember the talent and tenacity that made her a legend. Anna Mae Bullock was born on Nov. 26, 1939, in the small town of Nutbush, TN. Coming from a sharecropping family, she found herself leaning into her musical talents. The exploration led her to join Ike Turner and the Kings of Rhythm. Bullock hit her stride in the 1960s, and after marrying Ike Turner, the powerful vocalist started performing under the stage name Tina Turner with “Proud Mary” the highlight of their show.