Episode-95 Music Culture Update

We would LOVE to hear what you think. Please drop a line. In the Driver’s Seat — Nina & Jayden Take the WheelShoutout to Hosts Infinite and Brick, who pass the mic to the dynamic duo of Nina and Jayden for a headlining cut of Season 2’s finale energy. Episode 95 is a Next-Gen vibe-packed ride through the latest and greatest in music culture, with fresh takes, sharp trivia, and a peek at what Season 3 holds.What to expectNew drops & hot albums:** The freshest releases and what they mean for the culture right now.Music news in a minute:** Quick hits, big headlines, and the moments that actually matter.Music trivia knowledge:** Brain-bending facts, tidbits, and playful challenges to test your melodic muscle.Artist spotlight — Benny the Butcher:** A deep dive into the craft, the grit, and the impact of Benny’s catalog.One-hit wonders:** Nostalgia trip or sneaky comeback potential? We break down the bangers and the nostalgia.Music artist birthdays:** Celebrating the milestones that shaped the soundscape.AI in music culture:** How AI is weaving into creation, production, and vibe — and what it means for artists and fans.Season 3 tease from Jayden:** Insight into what you can expect when Jayden steps up as the Season 3 co-host — fresh perspectives, new formats, and elevated energy.Why you’ll want to tune inNina brings a fearless, fast-paced cadence, pairing sharp analysis with playful banter. Jayden brings a keen ear for trend + technique, ready to drop insider takes and a clear roadmap for what’s next in the season triangle. It’s a high-energy, hip approach to keeping you in the loop, laughing, and learning as the culture moves.Listen forDope track breakdowns and album breakdownsQuick-fire trivia challenges you can play along withHonest opinions, not industry fluffA forward-looking segment that hints at big Season 3 changesStream Episode 95 now and ride with Nina and Jayden as they steer the conversation, salute the artists, and set the tempo for what’s coming next.Support the show

We would LOVE to hear what you think. Please drop a line.Welcome to the latest episode of our music-forward show, hosted by Nina with guest hosts Jayden and Janitza. In this lively installment, the trio dives into a medley of musical curiosities and interactive fun:Musicians’ birthdays**: They explore notable birth dates.Music history moments**: A quick tour through pivotal eras, landmark stories that shaped genres.Music knowledge sparks**: Each host shares hidden gems, fun facts, and oddball anecdotes that only true music aficionados would love.Fun music multiple-choice game**: A playful, engaging round where Nina, Jayden, and Janitza test their chops and compete for bragging rights—and maybe a few surprises along the way.Whether you’re a casual listener or a serious music nerd, this episode serves up a blend of education, nostalgia, and high-spirited banter. Tune in for lively discussion, collaborative energy, and a soundtrack of moments that prove music history is not just in the past—it’s happening every day.Segment HighlightsBirthdate breakdowns and birthday shout-outs to legendary musiciansDeep dives into pivotal music history momentsQuizzes, fun facts, and rapid-fire knowledge checksAn interactive multiple-choice game with friendly competitionMeet the HostsNina (Host)**: The steady guide through conversations, bringing curiosity and warmth.Jayden (Guest Host)**: Nina's replacement for season three of the All About Me Podcast.Janitza (Guest Host)**: Who brings her fiery Personality to add flavor and energy to the episdoe.Support the show

We would LOVE to hear what you think. Please drop a line.Join hosts Infinite and Brick for a powerhouse conversation with Reggie Braxton, as he steps into the spotlight to play new tones into our hearts. Hailing from Detroit—the original Motown sound hub—Reggie brings a lineage of rhythm and soul that runs through his blood, from a family deeply rooted in music to a production pedigree that reads like a who’s-who of the industry.In this episode, Braxton shares:A deep dive into his debut EP, “The Brax-Tone Experience,” a six-track kaleidoscope of jazz-infused, soul-soaked, sensual R&B.How his Detroit lineage and a family connection to The Temptations shaped his voice and his craft.Collaborations and production magic with heavy hitters like J. Poww (UNV), Grammy winner Christopher Bivins (BuddaWolf), and engineering by Jezreel Santos, whose work spans Kem, Gregory Porter, and Mali Music.The journey from the local Detroit jazz scene to stages at Dummy George’s, Intermezzos, Birmingham Jazz, Toronto Caribbean Festivals, and casinos across Detroit.The influences that color his sound—from Luther Vandross to Nat King Cole, and from Dionne Warwick to The Whispers’ Scotty and Walter.Key tracks and moments:The single “I Pray It’s You” lighting up the Billboard Jazz chart.“Love Guarantee” peaking at 39 on MediaBase charts.A candid discussion about his grandmother Gladys English, his Temptations cousin, and the village of piano greats and horn men who shaped his path.Episode highlights:A heartfelt explanation of Braxton’s signature Brax-Tone sound and how it marries classic influences with contemporary mood.Stories from the road and studio—collaborations, challenges, and the discipline behind crafting intimate, seductive, soul-forward performances.A look at Detroit’s enduring influence on modern R&B and jazz and how Reggie aims to carry that legacy forward.Quote from Reggie Braxton:“Here in Detroit, we are music critics by nature. Our history laid the foundation for R&B, with innumerable classics that still stand the test of time, so we take a special pride in bringing our A-game to the table. The Brax-Tone is my debut expression of musical inheritance, and I hope it will establish my own stylistic sound that music lovers will appreciate for years to come.”Whether you’re a longtime Detroit soul fan, a jazz purist, or a lover of contemporary R&B, this interview with Reggie Braxton promises depth, warmth, and a slow-burn sensuality you won’t want to miss. Tune in to hear brazen honesty, studio magic, and a path forward carved from a legendary lineage and a bright, new tone.Support the show

We would LOVE to hear what you think. Please drop a line.The Sync Soundtrack with Marcus MandersonMarcus Manderson (@dafingaz) is a composer and producer who specializes in sync licensing, trailers, and custom music for global brands. His dynamic work has graced STARZ’s BMF and shined across MTV, BET, Bravo, the NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB, and more. Recent highlights include a Netflix trailer placement and the musical opening for the Lil Jon x Pitbull world tour.Beyond creation, Marcus is a leading voice in the sync and production music community. He hosts panels at SXSW, NAMM, AES, and other major events, runs global writing camps with Level Up Music Productions, and leads workshops that bring music production education to students around the world.At the core, Marcus believes music is more than sound. It is strategy, storytelling, and connection—and his mission is to help creators and brands unlock that power.Join the conversation as he breaks down the art and science of music for media, reveals behind-the-scenes insights from high-profile placements, and shares practical guidance for navigating licensing, composition, and collaboration in a fast-paced industry.Support the show

We would LOVE to hear what you think. Please drop a line. 3rd Annual CT Music Fair Wrap-UpWelcome to a special episode of All About Me Podcast — the backstage pass to the 3rd Annual CT Music Fair, held at the legendary Webster Theater in Hartford, CT. Hosted by Litty Blanco and presented by CT Allstarz, with the radiant Rich Nijah steering the energy, this episode dives deep into an unforgettable night of sound, soul, and community.What to expect:Backstage interviews with a roster of talented artists who took the Webster stage that nightPersonal insights into who they are, what to expect from their performances, and their plans for the rest of the year and beyondBehind-the-scenes stories that capture the vibe, the hustle, and the magic of a live music fairConversations that highlight the CT music scene, collaboration, and the moments that made this fair stand outHighlights:Electrifying performances and crowd energy from the Webster TheaterCandid conversations with artists about their journeys and upcoming projectsUnfiltered reflections from Litty Blanco and Rich Nijah on the event’s impact and future directionsTaglines:TAP-IN, LETS TALK MUSICGreat episode, in the midst of a great music fair with great energyIdeal for:CT music fans, aspiring artists, and anyone who loves live performance storytellingListeners who want backstage access and artist perspectives beyond the stageTune in for a tightly curated, high-energy episode that captures the heart of the CT Music Fair and the voices shaping its future.Infinite and Brick Host of All About ME PodcastSupport the show

We would LOVE to hear what you think. Please drop a line. HypeFest 2025 — Independent Hip Hop PulseDive into the heartbeat of underground hip hop with our post-festival episode on HypeFest 2025. Recorded at The Webster in Hartford, Connecticut, this episode unpacks a day of raw energy, artistic hustle, and community-building that defined the independent scene on Sunday, September 7, 2025.Go To @GTVBLP on IG to see live performance snapshots from a diverse slate of indie artists who brought the Webster stage to life.Get the inside scoop on standout moments, crowd reactions, and the creative process behind the music.Exclusive insights from special guests, including Fuego-Base Joe Banga and others, plus a whole lot of backstage interviews from the artist themselves.A visual of the Hip Hop Cypher on @GTVBLP on IG—its flow, creativity, and what it signals for upcoming artists.Vendor and community vibes: what local creators, brands, and supporters contributed to the festival atmosphere.The mission in focus: how HypeFest 2025 aimed to elevate emerging artists and foster a tight-knit hip hop community.If you’re obsessed with the culture, chasing the grind, or just love hearing authentic conversations about independent music scenes, this episode is for you. Subscribe for more event coverage, artist interviews, and cultural deep-dives from the world of hip hop and music as a whole.Support the show

We would LOVE to hear what you think. Please drop a line. “VMA Vibes with Nina, Jayden, and Janitza”Join co-host Nina, with special guest hosts Jayden and Janitza, as they dive into the 2025 VMAs—MTV’s iconic Video Music Awards. Hosted by LL Cool J, this year’s ceremony dazzled with unforgettable moments, surprise appearances, and a galaxy of music superstars.What you’ll hear in this episode:A candid recap of LL Cool J’s hosting moments, opening riffs, and standout moments from the show.In-depth discussion of Lady Gaga’s award moment, her emotional acceptance, and how her night evolved as she headed to MSG for a blockbuster concert.Highlights from standout performances and the night’s most talked-about wins.The overall vibe: energy, tributes, surprise collaborations, and the evolving VMAs format in 2025.Key segments:“Host Spotlight”: LL Cool J’s hosting era and the ceremony’s rhythm.“Gaga Moment by Moment”: Lady Gaga’s acceptance, the crowd’s reaction, and the transition to her MSG concert.“Red Carpet Rewind”: fashion notes, memorable entrances, and favorite looks.“Top Wins & Snubs”: who took home trophies, what surprised us, and what left us wanting more.Why listen: the smaller, human moments that made the night memorable. Like the dedication to Ozzy Osbourne.A light, energetic, and informed chat that captures the pulse of 2025’s VMAs and what it means for the music awards landscape moving forward.Tune in for the full breakdown, spoiler-free for those who haven’t caught up yet, with spoilers alert only for major moments. Whether you watched live or followed the buzz, this episode will bring the 2025 VMAs to life in your earbuds.Support the show

We would LOVE to hear what you think. Please drop a line.Infinite and Brick sit down for a deeply informative conversation with industry veteran Jesse Flores. With decades of experience and a strategic, artist-first mindset, Jesse brings a wealth of knowledge on music distribution, development, and the evolving landscape of the industry.About the EpisodeDiscover Jesse Flores’s journey from leadership roles at Virgin Music Group, Lyric Financial, EMI/Capitol Music Group, and more.Hear how his strategic vision has empowered artists and independent labels to navigate an ever-changing music economy.Explore the art and science of artist development, commercial marketing, and growth across major and indie ecosystems.Learn behind-the-scenes insights into high-profile artist collaborations and the leverage points that drive successful partnerships.HighlightsJesse’s role in securing and managing relationships with artists such as Stephen Marley, Slum Village, Royce Da 5’9″, DJ Premier/Gang Starr, Carla Morrison, Dax, and others at Virgin Music Group.How he spearheaded artist acquisitions and built over $20 million in new business through partnerships with Tyrese, Ice Cube, Raekwon, Trina, E-40, and more at EMI/Capitol Music Group.The trajectory of Universal Music Group and PolyGram Group Distribution in shaping artist development, marketing, and sales strategies.Practical takeaways for artists, managers, and label executives navigating distribution, monetization, and development today.Who Should ListenEmerging and established artists seeking smarter paths to distribution and development.Label and management professionals aiming to strengthen artist partnerships and revenue streams.Fans and industry observers curious about the mechanics behind artist growth and music business strategy.Why This Episode Stands OutThis conversation pairs Infinite & Brick’s insightful storytelling with Jesse Flores’s proven track record in both major label ecosystems and independent contexts. It offers actionable guidance, real-world examples, and B2B perspectives that illuminate how to empower artists in a rapidly evolving music industry.AvailabilityCatch this episode on all major podcast platforms. Subscribe to stay up-to-date with future conversations at the intersection of music, strategy, and artist empowerment.Support the show

We would LOVE to hear what you think. Please drop a line. Infinite and Brick sit down with the one-and-only Wave McKenzie for a conversation that dives deep into artistry, hustle, and the story behind the sound. In this episode, music meets platform hosting as Wave brings his unique perspective as both an artist and a curator of culture, sharing the moments that shaped his journey from Hartford’s North End to the edge of a breakthrough moment.Episode HighlightsWave McKenzie’s origin story: from writing rhymes in a sixth-grade notebook to shaping a distinctive boom-bap sound.The influences that color his lyricism: Wu-Tang Clan, AZ, Jay-Z, The Diplomats, State Property, The LOX, Fabolous, Nas, and Slick Rick.The creative process that fuels his craft: word-first verses, beat-first construction, and the art of meticulous revision.Sonics and production: a love for gritty, obscure sounds and sampling soul, rock, jazz, and old-school R&B to craft an authentic vibe.Beyond the mic: Wave’s hands-on approach to his career—co-producing beats, directing visuals, and running a YouTube channel that reviews classic hip-hop and spotlights Connecticut artists.The path to becoming a household name: building a brand and label, earning recognition on the right terms, and making music that lasts.About Wave McKenzieWave McKenzie is more than a name—it’s a statement. Taking his last name and pairing it with “Wave” symbolizes an undeniable flow, representing a sound so strong it needed a surname. Hailing from Hartford’s North End, his music blends a golden-era aesthetic with modern expression—a fusion of raw lyricism, introspection, and nostalgia designed to inspire and motivate.Hip-hop has been his lifelong passion, from early notebook rhymes to first beat tapes.Early influences include legendary artists and storytellers who shaped his ability to paint vivid pictures with words.His creative process is dynamic: sometimes sparked by a single word, other times by a film or a moment in time.Sonically, he gravitates toward gritty, obscure sounds and soulful, jazzy, and old-school R&B samples for that authentic boom-bap feel.He is deeply hands-on: co-producing beats, directing visuals, and curating a YouTube channel that spotlights Connecticut artists and reviews classic hip-hop.His five-year vision? To be a recognizable household name, lead his own brand and label, and have his music live forever—earned on merit and authenticity.Why ListenGain a rare insight into the mind of a self-sufficient artist who handles production, visuals, and curation.Hear the intersection of classic influence and modern craft that defines Wave’s sound.Discover the Connecticut hip-hop scene through Wave’s perspective and spotlight.Get inspired by a roadmap of ambition, persistence, and a clear vision for longevity in the industry.Tune in to hear Infinite and Brick pull back the curtain on Wave McKenzie’s journey, philosophy, and the craft that makes his music resonate long after the track ends. If you love authentic storytelling, meticulous production, and a frontline look at a rising force in hip-hop, this episode is for you.Support the show

We would LOVE to hear what you think. Please drop a line.Emerging onto the scene with a bold, authentic voice, she uses music to inspire change, delivering thought-provoking lyrics that empower and resonate across generations.Her recent journey into music was unexpected but deeply personal. She picked up the guitar to bond with her foster son, igniting a passion that quickly evolved. By February 2024, she was performing her first gig as an acoustic artist, and by December, she released her debut single, "THE FREEDOM TRAIN."A powerful anthem inspired by global events, THE FREEDOM TRAIN fuses timeless reggae influences with a contemporary edge. Fueled by a passion for social justice and an unshakable belief in music’s power to transform, DANNYELLA invites listeners to reflect and engage in creating a more harmonious future.With THE FREEDOM TRAIN, she embarks on a journey that is only just beginning.Influences: Bob Marley, Black Uhuru, Nina Simone, Lennon, Tina Turner, Ren, Lauren Hills, Stevie WonderSupport the show