Ogden Payne is a Recording Academy/GRAMMY.com contributor.
A large percentage of the globalization of hip-hop can be traced back to Texas. Nestled between the influential hubs of Los Angeles and New York, Texas has grown from being a state that produces local rap celebrities to one that superstars call home. Multiple cities within Texas’ borders have consistently churned out stars over the past few years, making it…
While the ripple effect of COVID-19 has limited, if not eliminated, the possibility of hosting in-person events for some, Downtown Music Holdings has found a way to keep its commitment to providing quality education and opportunity to the next generation. In place of their on-site internship program, the company has announced its inaugural Downtown Summer School, a free, week-long series…
Anthony Hamilton's voice has always been used as an instrument for change. Throughout his nearly two-decade career, his lyrics have served as the soundtrack behind some of the most intense emotions people around the world experience daily. But with the recent tragedy of George Floyd's death and the resurgence of conversations surrounding police brutality, Hamilton is using his influence to…
The foundation for Tulsa's hip-hop renaissance was laid nearly 100 years ago. Amid segregation in the early 1920s, the Greenwood District was the epicenter of African-American culture, entrepreneurship and wealth. It was labeled as Black Wall Street. However, its legacy and impact were larger than a single strip of asphalt. Four square miles were littered with black-owned businesses, from barbershops…
There is a distinct difference between beat-maker and a producer in the music world. While the former might get one’s foot in the door, the latter will determine the length of the stay. A seasoned veteran such as Swizz Beatz knows the importance of mastering both crafts. Born Kasseem Dean in The Bronx, N.Y., Swizz’ production has permeated generations of…
When Ann Mincieli began building Jungle City Studios, everything, and everyone, around her tried to convince her that she was making a mistake. The music industry was still combating music piracy and struggling to turn a profit. The combination of budget cuts and technology advancement meant that state-of-the-art recording facilities were now viewed by some as unnecessary luxuries compared to…
For Jay Z, timing is everything. Throughout his two-decade-long career, his affinity for punctuality has trickled down to his fans, largely due to the extensive timepiece collection he often references, and the titling of his latest album. Privy to this detail, festivalgoers at Austin City Limits 2017 sprinted across Zilker Park to ensure they did not miss the opening notes…
As the echo from resounding applause faded in Staples Center, Kanye West scanned the well-dressed attendees at the 47th GRAMMY Awards, gold gramophone in hand. He took a deep breath and then embarked on a lengthy but heartfelt acceptance speech. "If you have the opportunity to play this game of life, you need to appreciate every moment," he said. "I…
