Viral Los Angeles rapper HoodTrophy Bino and influencer artist Chrisean Rock just released a new hit single titled “Proud Of You“. The artists turn a gritty, melodic street anthem into a vulnerable thank-you note to God, trading raw confessions, scars, and small victories over a chant-ready hook built for late nights, long drives, and testimony-style captions. Together they blur the line between hood war stories and healing, channeling the chaos of their pasts into something unexpectedly uplifting and deeply personal.
Bino’s upcoming album Made A Way drops May 1st, with collabs from Lefty Gunplay, NoCap, Quando Rondo, Kai Bandz, Big Sad 1900, and more. Bino was recently cast on “Deja Vu” on Now That’s TV, appearing alongside cultural heavyweights Gucci Mane, Diamond The Body, Cuban Da Savage, and Mel. He is set to perform at this year’s Rolling Loud in Orlando on May 8th and on the “School’s Out” Tour with Shordie Shordie. Word is out that he is collaborating with Hit-Boy on a new album and gearing up for his own TV show “Coming Up In Miami” with Jamaican star Safaree.
From gang life to global stages, Hoodtrophy Bino’s journey is one of transformation. After meeting Soulja Boy while incarcerated and later joining S.O.D.M.G., he turned adversity into ambition — touring nationwide and sharing his story through the acclaimed documentary Breaking the Generational Curse. His recent performances include touring with Soulja Boy, appearing alongside him at Rolling Loud Los Angeles, opening for Trippie Redd at the Toyota Arena, and for Chris Brown in Las Vegas. Bino has also been featured on major platforms including The Breakfast Club, On The Radar, HotNewHipHop, Lyrical Lemonade, and No Jumper. Breakout singles “I Want Her” featuring Kalan.FrFr and “Falling For You” further solidified his national presence, earning airplay across SiriusXM The Heat, Power 106, Power 105.1, and 96.1 The Beat, among others.
Houston R&B group Sentury has officially reached the top of the mountain. Their single, “Forever,” has ascended to No. 1 on Billboard’s Adult R&B Airplay chart, completing an extraordinary climb to the summit and taking the place of Olivia Dean’s “Man I Need” in the process. The achievement places Sentury among a rare class of artists, with “Forever” marking the group’s second consecutive No. 1 on the Adult R&B Airplay chart, following their previous chart-topper, “Only Human,” and cementing the Houston group as one of the most consistent and dominant forces in R&B radio today. As the first R&B group in 25 years to achieve a No. 1 on the Billboard charts, these 9x Billboard-charting artists continue to prove they know exactly how to connect.
“Forever” has been featured on major editorial playlists including Apple Music’s Tearjerkers, Day One, Smooth & Easy; Amazon Music’s Adult R&B; Pandora Music’s Today’s R&B and Old School, New R&B, and many more. The group performed at last year’s Essence Festival and has received acclaim from the likes of Billboard, Rated R&B, Great Day Houston and many more.
With roots deep in Houston, TX, R&B powerhouse Sentury is carrying the torch for the Golden Era of modern R&B. Their music nods to the legacy of classic groups, with rich layered harmonies and heartfelt storytelling combined with a sleek modern edge. Together, Leo, CJ, AJ, and Rico deliver what they proudly call “grown man R&B.”
Sentury’s origins trace back to church, with all four teen members finding one another while singing at services and fellowships. The group initially began in 2011 with a tight musical bond between Leo, AJ and Rico, but they knew they needed a special fourth to complete the group. When they discovered the enormous talent in CJ, they wasted no time. After getting a seal of approval from CJ’s mother, the magic of Sentury was formed.
Sentury’s style is silk in motion. They embody rich harmonies, vintage cool, and unapologetic soul draped in smooth suits and dimly lit desire. Blending smooth velvety vocals, swaying basslines, and rich live instrumentation, their sound is seductive yet understated, emotional yet resilient, and classic while still fresh.
The hitmakers have nine Billboard charting songs. Initially signed with a major label, they made the decision to go independent when Leo of the group founded his own record label, Gateway Records. This decision let Sentury obtain full creative and promotional control, fueling their success. Their 2025 single “Only Human” is a fresh but faithful reimagining of the Jeffrey Osborne classic. The single climbed to #1 on Billboard’s Adult R&B chart and electrified audiences nationwide, garnering praise from industry legends including the original hitmakers themselves. The achievement cemented Sentury as not just carriers of the R&B tradition, but as innovators shaping its future. Sentury’s latest release “Forever” is an emotionally-charged track celebrating the themes of enduring love, devotion, and commitment. The song’s harmonies and melodies beautifully convey the passionate feelings of finding someone who brings pure joy and completes your world.
In an era filled with disposal dating, Sentury stands for something deeper – genuine romance, real connection, and music with meaning. They aren’t just reviving R&B; they’re redefining it for a generation craving authenticity, proving that true soul never goes out of style.
International recording artist Flipstyle is gaining worldwide momentum with his latest single “This Is Life,” featuring vocalist Mel Mova and emerging Australian saxophonist Lachie Eggert. The official music video has surpassed 1 million views on YouTube within its first month of release, marking a major milestone for the independent release.
Released through Street Music Records, the single achieved multiple chart placements in the United States between January and February 2026, reaching #58 on the Billboard Top 100, #43 on the iTunes Top 100, #26 on the Amazon Best Sellers chart, and #19 on Spotify’s Local Pulse Toronto chart. The track also charted internationally at #80 on the iTunes UK Top 100 Pop Singles Chart, reflecting strong engagement across global markets.
Written by Flipstyle and Mel Mova, “This Is Life” blends cinematic hip-hop production with motivational lyricism centered on perseverance, ambition, and resilience. The track combines polished production with live instrumentation to create a cross-genre sound that resonates with audiences worldwide.
A defining element of the song is Mel Mova’s powerful vocal performance, which delivers emotional depth through soaring melodies and layered harmonies. Her vocal delivery anchors the track’s message and contributes to the song’s broad cross-cultural appeal.
The production is further elevated by Lachie Eggert’s live saxophone performance, adding warmth and expressive musical texture while bridging contemporary hip-hop with live instrumental artistry.
Executive production was led by Stephen Movafaghi, the artist behind Flipstyle. The official music video was produced by Stephen Movafaghi and Melissa Movafaghi of Contego Media, delivering a cinematic visual narrative that reinforces the song’s empowering theme.
Stephen Movafaghi, professionally known as Flipstyle, is also the founder of Pulse Musica, an all-in-one music creation SaaS platform built to support independent artists at every stage of the creative process. The platform enables users to produce music, record vocals, mix and master tracks, design cover artwork, and create music videos within a single, unified system, further expanding his role as both an artist and entrepreneur within the evolving digital music landscape.
With chart placements across multiple territories, strong international streaming engagement, and continued media recognition, “This Is Life” continues to build global momentum for the independent artist and his collaborators.
Las Vegas based artist Ryan Nicorecently released his debut full-length projectUrban Cowboy, alongside the music video for focus track “Nevada.”
Urban Cowboy is an 8-track album where Ryan Nico carves out his own sonic identity at the intersection of pop-country, hip-hop, and R&B, blending hard-hitting rhythmic production with melodic, anthemic songwriting that feels equally at home on a country radio playlist and in a club setting. The album moves fluidly between themes of hustle and self-made ambition, romantic entanglement, resilience, and the kind of road-worn, forward-looking introspection that defines great American storytelling. What ties it all together is Ryan Nico’s distinctly versatile artistry and a vocal delivery that can shift from smooth R&B crooning to a commanding, rap-adjacent cadence without missing a beat. “The meaning behind Urban Cowboy describes me as an artist and person. I grew up in the city, but I have deep Country roots.”
The focus track “Nevada” delivers an anthemic, feel-good sound that fuses sleek pop-country textures with a driving hip-hop beat, capturing the neon-soaked, larger-than-life energy of the Las Vegas Strip – a place of endless possibility, where “all it takes is one roll of the dice, you never what could happen might change your life.” Shot against the dazzling backdrop of the Las Vegas Strip at night, Ryan Nico’s “Nevada” visual follows the artist moving between luxury cars and glowing neon casino signage.
“Urban Cowboy“ Track Listing:
Nevada Square Up She’s On Fire Soul Ties Earn What You Get Blue Collar Cowboy Through The Fire Long Road Up Ahead
Las Vegas based music artist “Ryan Nico” is a breath of fresh air, infusing country with rock, blues; and pop with elements of contemporary/alternative R&B that gives his listeners a sound that uplifts and inspires.
Ryan Nico found his passion for music during his time in college, using it as a therapeutic outlet to write down his experiences in a musical format. He got his start participating in and winning freestyle contests, which led him to put his own spin on popular songs, adding his own lyrics over the instrumentals. He credits this experience with helping to form his own style and hone his writing skills, working through trial and error. Nico has a diverse appreciation of all types of genres.Having spent the last decade writing music, Ryan Nico is working to fulfill his goal of creating a sound and brand that is recognized worldwide. Best described as “Good Vibes,“ Nico creates a headspace with his music that will leave his listeners floating on cloud nine.
Born in Long Beach, California to parents who were both born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, this artist is the product of two powerful worlds colliding. His upbringing was shaped by contrast, culture, and hard lessons learned early in life. Raised primarily in Long Beach, his childhood took a major turn after his parents divorced. From that point on, he was influenced by two very different father figures—each leaving a lasting imprint on who he would become. His biological father lived a fast, complicated life. Known as a hustler, businessman, and street figure, he moved in and out of jail and represented the raw realities of survival, ambition, and risk. On the other side stood his stepfather, a hardworking, dependable family man who maintained a full-time job and provided structure, discipline, and stability until the day he passed away. May he rest in peace. Growing up between these two influences created an internal conflict that would later become a source of wisdom and depth.
As a young man, he and his stepbrother were drawn to the image and lifestyle of the streets, wanting to mirror the toughness and independence they saw in their biological father. As adulthood arrived, perspective followed. He came to understand that real strength lies in balance—knowing the streets, but not letting them define you; building a stable career while still honoring where you come from; creating a foundation not just for survival, but for family and legacy.
Music was never a phase—it was present from day one. Inspired early by artists like KRS-One, LL Cool J, N.W.A., and others who spoke truth through sound, he saw music as both an outlet and a future. What some may call unlikely or unrealistic was simply reality to him. Music became the language through which he could tell his story honestly and without compromise.
In addition to his Long Beach roots, he spent half of his life living in Memphis, deepening his connection to Southern culture, storytelling, and soul. That blend of West Coast grit and Memphis influence defines his sound and perspective.
He carries a big story—one of loss, growth, survival, and clarity. Rather than explain it all at once, he chooses to let the music speak. Each record is a chapter, each verse a truth. This is more than music; it’s a lived experience.
Tune in now to check out his music in rotation here on Global Urban Radio!
DL, a multi-talented artist hailing from the gritty streets of Queens, NY, has carved a unique path in the world of hip hop, acting, and entrepreneurship. With an unyielding commitment to authenticity and being the “genuine article,” DL has emerged as a true force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.
Rising to prominence, DL’s breakout role came in the cult classic film “King of Paper Chasin’,” where he showcased his acting chops alongside his underground banger, “Bossman.” The film not only captivated audiences but also solidified DL’s position as a multifaceted talent. It was in this defining moment that DL’s artistry began to transcend traditional boundaries, capturing the essence of the streets and the struggles faced by many.
DL’s journey has been marked by setbacks and personal tragedies, including the sudden loss of his younger sister. These hardships have served as powerful catalysts for his artistic expression, allowing him to channel raw emotion into his music and performances. Through his art, DL offers a glimpse into the depths of human experience, delivering messages of resilience, hope, and triumph over adversity.
In his music, DL seamlessly blends his Queens upbringing with his passion for hip hop, creating an unmistakable sound that resonates with fans worldwide. His song titles reflect his diverse range, from the introspective anthem “Good 2 B Here” to the infectious energy of “Off Da Books.” With his latest single, “DAF,” DL introduces a fun and sexy vibe, showcasing his versatility as an artist.
Beyond his individual accomplishments, DL has established his own entertainment company, Triplebeam Worldwide. The name “Triplebeam” serves as a powerful reminder of DL’s roots, ensuring he never forgets where he comes from. It also carries a message of motivation and inspiration for those seeking a way out of their circumstances, a testament to DL’s unwavering belief in the transformative power of music and art.
Driven by a deep desire to give back, DL recently founded the Triplebeam Dreams Foundation. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to uplifting and inspiring the youth who face daily struggles similar to those DL encountered as a young man in the inner city. Through various initiatives, the foundation aims to provide resources, mentorship, and opportunities for personal and artistic growth, empowering the next generation to overcome obstacles and chase their dreams.
DL’s magnetic presence, coupled with his genuine passion for his craft, has garnered him a dedicated fan base that stretches far beyond his hometown. Whether he’s captivating audiences on screen, delivering captivating performances on stage, or making a difference through his philanthropic efforts, DL continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
In a realm often characterized by pretense, DL’s commitment to authenticity shines through, making him a true beacon of inspiration. Through his artistry, resilience, and philanthropy, DL embodies the power of the human spirit, reminding us all that no setback is insurmountable and that dreams can become a reality.
In DL’s latest release, “Copy”, the artist steps into the part of the journey people never repost. The nights where the wins slowed down. The moments when support disappeared. The times he was counted out, overlooked, underestimated—and expected to fade like everybody else who almost made it.
This is where the imitators stopped watching.
Because copying the image is easy. Copying the pressure isn’t.
Copying the confidence is easy. Copying the doubt you have to beat in private isn’t.
When the momentum shifted and the spotlight moved somewhere else, the question wasn’t whether people believed anymore.
It was whether he still believed.
And that’s where the separation happened.
Beam II is about surviving the silence…staying solid when nobody’s calling…and finding the will to keep building when the world already moved on.
Some people tried to copy the look.
Nobody could copy the endurance.
Check out “Copy”, out now on all platforms, and make sure you follow DL on social media for his latest releases.
Dough the Freshkid (DTFK) is a Los Angeles–based recording artist and creative visionary from the Crenshaw District. Known for his cinematic storytelling and authentic voice. He is also a well recognized community leader and co-owner of Tal’s Cafe in South Los Angeles.
Dough merges artistry with impact, earning recognition for both his cultural influence and dedication to uplifting underserved communities.
His new album, “It’s Not Hate It’s Envy,” is his sixth studio album, which explores themes of resilience, perception, and personal growth.
Check out “It’s Not Hate It’s Envy” out now on all platforms and make sure you follow Dough the Freshkid on social media for his latest releases.
MONÉT MERCHAND is breaking into international charts without a major label co-sign—and the industry is taking notice. With entries on the UK iTunes Top 100 and a rapid climb into Canada’s Top 50, she is building a multi-market presence powered entirely by independent infrastructure through Victory Note Records. In an era where visibility is often manufactured, MONÉT MERCHAND’s rise is being earned in real time—stream by stream, country by country.
More than momentum, MONÉT is proving that independent artists don’t need permission to chart globally—they need strategy, consistency, and audience connection. She is actively converting global attention into measurable impact, building a cross-border legacy that extends far beyond a single release or moment.
Emerging as one of the most disruptive independent pop artists in today’s global music landscape, MONÉT MERCHAND is redefining what chart success looks like. Fueled by cinematic sound and undeniable presence, she is demonstrating that chart impact no longer belongs exclusively to major label systems. As the First Lady of Victory Note Records, she continues to build a cross-continental footprint with precision, strategy, and organic audience pull.
Following the release of Spring Fever (Be Mine) and KOKORO, MONÉT MERCHAND entered the UK iTunes Top 100 and is now breaking into the Top 50 in Canada—marking consecutive international chart movement across key markets. This multi-country traction reflects a rare form of growth driven not by industry placement, but by direct listener engagement, repeat consumption, and global discovery.
Operating outside traditional label systems, MONÉT MERCHAND represents a new class of artist—one who controls her narrative, distribution, and expansion across territories. Her catalog, recognized across streaming platforms and film placement circuits, continues to expand while maintaining a distinct cinematic pop identity.
As the music industry shifts toward data-driven discovery and globalized audiences, MONÉT MERCHAND is not simply keeping pace and positioning herself ahead of the curve. With chart entries stacking and new markets opening simultaneously, her trajectory is no longer emerging—it is establishing.
MONÉT MERCHAND isn’t chasing the charts she’s rewriting how they’re reached.
Asian-American artists Star2 and Young Henny release a new single and video, “Ring Ring.” The melodic trap track spotlights the rising influence of Southeast Asian voices in hip-hop, fusing West Coast production with cultural elements inspired by the Ka-ren people. The bilingual nature of the song stems from Star2, who was born in a Thai refugee camp and is of Ka-ren descent, and who uses his verses to bridge his heritage with his American life. “Ring Ring” frames success through metaphor, using unanswered phone calls to symbolize the emotional tradeoffs that come with ambition. The music video features polished drone cinematography with a gritty, local-block feel, perfectly complementing the track's melodic trap energy.
Star2 continues to bring this perspective to his music, curating collaborations that feel both global and deeply personal. From working with acclaimed artists including Soulja Boy, Sprite, $tupid Young, Mozzy, MBNel, Luh Kel, Lil Poppa, HoodTrophy Bino, and YSN Flow, to carving out his own lane alongside fellow artists from his hometown in Thailand, he continues to bridge cultures while expanding the sound and visibility of a new generation.
EL-JAY is a 3x Billboard-charting R&B/Pop artist, 3x award-winning performer, actor, and dancer-carving his own path as the son of platinum R&B legend Rome (“| Belong to You”).
Known for his high-energy style and smooth blend of Neo-Soul, R&B, and Pop, EL-JAY has made waves globally with his hit EP “Letter 2 Self,” led by its powerful title track. Produced by Multi Platinum Producer Achilles, Branden Woodz, and ADG. This EP marks growth and self-reflection.
His songs on TikTok have already reached over 5k plus dance videos and radio stations and college radio are already picking his records up. He will also be performing at the IGM AWARDS March 21st in Hollywood at the Directors Guild Of America, where he will be performing his new hits of his EP. You will be able to catch his performance on Tubi and Apple TV.
As an actor, EL-JAY stars in the upcoming feature film “Triumph” (which he also Executive Produced, wrote the story, and wrote the script with his partners from Hit Entertainment and Savant Entertainment).
With over 10M views across music video appearances and growing recognition on screen and stage, EL-JAY is a rising star redefining what it means to be a multi-hyphenate entertainer.
Major shout to his home record label Starz Music Group Entertainment.
Craig, formally known as Mr. Craig, is an globally recognized artist specializing in R&B, hip-hop, and rap, who was raised in Queens, New York, and aspires to convey his stories through his music. He possesses experience across multiple media and entertainment sectors, which encompass audio, video, voice-over, acting, mastering, producing, and A&R.
Craig finds inspiration in the legends of authentic hip-hop. Figures such as LL Cool J, 2Pac, Nas, Big Daddy Kane, Biggie, Wu-Tang Clan, Rakim, Run-DMC, Jay-Z, and DMX have significantly influenced his artistic perspective, enhancing his commitment to the art form.
Currently, Craig is recognized as a skilled musician who creates music that reflects his aspirations, dreams, and personal experiences. His work serves as a potent vehicle for self-expression and a means to engage with listeners on a deeper level. Rooted in the realities of daily life, Craig’s music acts as a mirror to his deepest thoughts and feelings.
Craig has transformed into an exceptionally adaptable musician, effortlessly merging his abilities across a range of both popular and niche genres. His carefully crafted lyrics and superior production quality guarantee that he will leave a lasting mark on the music industry, owing to his diverse approach to artistry.
The artist is set to release his highly anticipated single “Against Tha World” on 4/20, which is also his birthday. Make sure you pre-save it now and follow Craig on social media for his latest releases.
