Check out our vlog to see behind the scene footage of what happens when black owned businesses and personnel come together to form something great. The video shoot itself was formulated on the theme of boy meets girl, and was shot in three different locations with very distinct vibes which proved to be essential for the shoot. The first location was Chesapeake Bay where the models shot the laid back, bool, beach scene. In this scene models sported bikinis, shorts, and GLEAMING melanin as they strolled down the boardwalk and strutted through the sand. The second location was more grungy and shot in Georgetown overlooking the water, and in various shops. For this scene the models wore more chill but looks were definitely still being served. The final location was at a former plantation house (I know) where the fireworks scene was shot. Overall the shoot was an enjoyable experience. We got the chance to meet and work with a lot of great people so shout out to them for having us.
This video shoot was brought together by a variety of clothing lines such as Enlightened Ent (IG: @Enlight3nedENT), EAT. (IG:@AllHomage), The Rebels (@TheRebelsDMV), Behind the Facade Clothiers (IG:@BTFClothiers), and Rare Creations (IG:@ShopRareCreations). Styling for this shoot was done by Brittney Joelle (IG: @britt.joelle), an up and coming stylist and designer who has worked with Lil Mama, Chance the Rapper, and other talents. Look out for the shoot when it comes out by following the social media for all the different brands and models, as well as keeping up with our IG @whoisplug. #ItsNotOverYet
Smino is another young musical talent at the forefront of the Midwest music scene. His latest project “blkswn” is the culmination of years and years of hard work and determination. It sounds like growth, it sounds southern, it sounds raw and uncut, but more than anything it sounds like he really took his time with this project and settled for nothing less than a masterpiece.
I’ve been watching Smino for just over a year and what I’ve noticed more than anything is his calculated strategy and the mutual love given to and received from his fans and closest supporters. Some of his biggest supporters are Midwest creative and musical geniuses’ in their own right. This list includes but is not limited to – Drea Smith, Bari, Saba, Jean Deaux, Ravyn Lenae, Monte Booker, Noname, Via Rosa, Akenya, Mick Jenkins, and more! Many of whom were featured on “blkswn.”
My First Impression
My first impression of the album was “wow this is a melting pot of so many different sounds, feelings, textures, thoughts, ideas, and cultures.” Some of my favorite takeaways (and not just because of the brilliant song names) are “Netflix & Dusse” – “Glass Flows” – “Father Son Holy Smoke” – “Amphetamine” – “Long Run” – “blkswn” – and believe me it’s super hard to stop there but if I added another it’d have to be 2 and then 3… Smino reminds me slightly of another midwestern artist that’s been on the tip of tongues quite a bit lately. Chance the Rapper’s “Acid Rap” knocked down the door for artists like Smino to feel confident that having good music with a message and careful strategy was enough to break into an industry largely dominated by a select few gatekeepers. In the age of information and networking, generating a profitable business is a more attainable goal then ever before. Smino’s ‘Zero Fatigue‘ clique encompasses many of the artists featured on the project and several of them have projects out of their own…
In Conclusion…
I’m thoroughly impressed with what I’ve been hearing out of the Midwest lately and in my opinion Smino just released the most complete musical project that I’ve heard of recent. The only other project I’ve been listening to as much lately is Masego’s “Loose Thoughts” and Cornrow Kenny’s “DAMN.” but that’s a post for another day. Check out “blkswn” below and feel free to comment your thoughts, opinions, reactions, and first impressions, I’m really interested in hearing what you guys think! & of course share this article freely! 😉🔌
Smino is currently on his “Swanita” tour. For all of our D.C. readers come vibe with us at Songbyrd on the 7th of May to hear his amazing work in the flesh. Note: He’ll also be at Broccoli Fest on the 6th.
One week ago today Yancy E dropped “Flower 17′.” It’s a continuation and evolution of his eccentric and impressively individualistic sound. Spring is naturally a time of birth and symbolizes growth and new life! “Flower 17′” is refreshing to say the least. It’s imbued with culture, passion, emotion and a drop of anxious anticipation. The rich music history of the DMV area in which Yancy resides is an obvious inspiration for his eclectic sound. Mixing rock elements with hip-hop is nothing new yet Yancy finds a way to make it all sound refreshing, inspiring, and innovative. Listen below
