FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Chicago, IL — September 2025 — Chicago has always been a city that shapes the sound of hip-hop, and now it has its official soundtrack. Internationally respected DJ and tastemaker @DJSmokeMixtapes unleashes Summertime Chi Vol. 1, a 46-track mixtape that brings together Chicago’s legends, rising stars, and street anthems in one powerful project.

From Twista’s rapid-fire flows to Chief Keef’s drill classics, from Jeremih’s R&B melodies to King Von’s storytelling, Summertime Chi Vol. 1 is more than a mixtape — it’s a celebration of Chicago’s culture, energy, and diversity.

Curated and mixed by DJ Smoke, the project blends hip-hop, R&B, and drill into the perfect soundtrack for late nights, block parties, and rooftop vibes.

📢 🚨 IT’S OFFICIAL 🚨 DJ Smoke is back with #MakeRappersRAPAgain Vol. 2—dropping soon! 🔥💨 This ain’t just a mixtape—it’s a statement. New 2Pac. New Kanye. New Gucci Mane. Plus, some of the hardest bars from G Herbo, Latto, Gunna, Rick Ross, Travis Scott, Redman, Juicy J, and more!

The wait is finally over! DJ Smoke is back with the highly anticipated Make Rappers RAP Again Vol. 2, bringing that raw, unfiltered energy straight into 2025. If you’ve been craving new music that’s packed with heavy bars and street anthems, this mixtape is for you.

This release is a true celebration of hip-hop culture, featuring a brand-new 2Pac track, fresh music from Kanye West, and a new single from Gucci Mane. But that's not all—Vol. 2 also features some of the biggest names in the game right now like G Herbo, Latto, Gunna, Rick Ross, Travis Scott, Redman, and Juicy J. Plus, you’ll find rising indie talent holding their own and adding flavor to this massive project.

From hard-hitting lyrics to smooth flows, Make Rappers RAP Again Vol. 2 has something for every hip-hop fan. Whether you’re vibing to the street anthems or nodding your head to the more introspective tracks, DJ Smoke has crafted a mixtape that’s guaranteed to keep you on repeat.

Here’s what you can expect from this fire mixtape:

• A brand-new 2Pac track that’ll hit you with that classic West Coast vibe.
• Exclusive music from Kanye West and Gucci Mane, adding to the already legendary lineup.
• Guest appearances from your favorite artists and a few indie rappers making waves in the scene.

So, what are you waiting for? Press play and let the bars speak for themselves. Don’t miss out on one of the hottest mixtapes of 2025—Make Rappers RAP Again Vol. 2 is here to set the tone for the year!

Listen to the mixtape when it drops and stay tuned for more drops from DJ Smoke.

💯 Who’s ready for real hip-hop?! Drop a 🔥 in the comments if you’re locked in! #MRRA2 #DJSmoke #RealRapOnly #MixtapeSeason

As an independent artist, standing out in today’s crowded music scene can be tough. We’ve all been there, right? You’ve got talent, you’ve got drive, but sometimes it feels like your music just isn’t reaching the right people. So, how do you get noticed? The answer lies in effective music promotion—and I’m here to share a few key tools that can help you make a real impact.

1. Playlist Placements: Your Music’s New Best Friend

Spotify is the #1 streaming platform for millions of music lovers, and landing on the right playlists can do wonders for your exposure. But it's not just about getting on any playlist—it’s about getting on the playlists that will put your music in front of the ears that matter.

Tip: Reach out to playlist curators in your genre, and don't be afraid to pitch your music. The right placement can mean a boost in streams, followers, and opportunities with DJs and influencers.

How I Help: I specialize in helping indie artists like you get their tracks on curated playlists with thousands of engaged listeners. If you want to maximize your visibility on Spotify, this is one tool you don’t want to overlook.

2. Mixtape Features: Get Your Music Heard by New Audiences

Mixtapes are a great way to reach people who may not have discovered your music otherwise. But how do you get your tracks on a mixtape? It's all about building relationships with DJs and music platforms that can feature your tracks.

Tip: Start by connecting with DJs and mixtape curators who specialize in your genre. They’re always looking for fresh music to feature, and this could be your chance to get in front of thousands of potential fans.

How I Help: Through my Mixtape Hosting service, I ensure your music gets the right spotlight, connecting you to the platforms and curators who will give you that much-needed exposure.

3. Social Media Engagement: Building Real Connections with Your Fans

You’ve probably heard it a million times: social media is essential for growing your brand. But here's the thing—it's not enough to just post content and hope for the best. You need to engage with your followers, respond to comments, share behind-the-scenes moments, and build genuine relationships.

Tip: Be consistent and authentic. Show up regularly on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter to keep your fans engaged. Use interactive features like polls, Q&As, and live sessions to make your followers feel involved.

How I Help: Social media is key to promoting your music, and I provide exposure across my own channels with over 10K+ followers. By tapping into my network, you can get your music seen and heard by the right audience.

4. Email Lists: The Power of Direct Connection

One of the most underrated tools in music promotion is an email list. When you have direct access to your fans’ inboxes, you can send them exclusive content, updates, and calls to action that social media platforms just can’t replicate.

Tip: Start building your email list now. Offer free downloads, exclusive content, or behind-the-scenes footage in exchange for sign-ups. Over time, this will become one of your most powerful tools for connecting directly with your fans.

How I Help: While email lists take time to grow, my services offer quick visibility on platforms that boost your streams, fanbase, and engagement—helping you build your list faster.

The Power of Getting Noticed: What’s Next for Your Music?

When it comes down to it, getting noticed as an indie artist is all about creating visibility. 

But it takes more than just talent—it’s about using the right tools to help get your music out to the right audience. 

Whether it’s through playlist placements, mixtape features, or social media exposure, every little piece adds up.

Let’s Talk About How I Can Help You: If you’re ready to level up your music career and gain real exposure, let’s chat. I offer a range of services designed to help indie artists like you get seen and heard. From mixtape hosting to Spotify placements, my goal is to help you grow your fanbase, build streams, and get your music in front of more people.

Want to know more? Drop me a message, and let’s discuss how we can take your music to the next level!

Let's Connect!

I'm here to help you take your music career to the next level! Whether you’re looking for promotion advice, playlist placements, or mixtape hosting, feel free to reach out. Let’s make sure your music gets the attention it deserves.

Contact Me Directly: 📧 Email: tophothitsUSA@gmail.com
📞 Phone/Text: 773-357-6651
💬 DM me on Instagram or Twitter for a quick chat about your music!

Follow Me on Social Media

Stay updated on the latest tips, music promotion strategies, and more!

📱 Instagram: @DJSmokeMixtapes
🐦 Twitter: @DJSmokeMixtapes
🎧 Facebook: DJSmokeMixtapes
📸 TikTok: @DJSmokeMixtapes

DJ Smoke is here to remind us what real hip-hop sounds like with his latest project, "Make Rappers RAP Again." This mixtape is not just a collection of tracks; it's a movement bringing the essence of rap back to the forefront. With an impressive mix of mainstream heavyweights and emerging talents, this compilation is setting the bar high for 2024.

Why You Need to Hear This Mixtape

"Make Rappers RAP Again" kicks off with an electrifying intro, setting the stage for a journey through hard-hitting tracks and fiery freestyles. From Trae Tha Truth and A$AP Ferg’s anthem "Rock Out" to Megan Thee Stallion's explosive "Like A G6 Freestyle," each track showcases the diversity and depth of talent in the rap game today.

But it's not just about the big names. DJ Smoke gives a platform to up-and-coming artists like Trio aka PROFIT and Skittles aka Ms Cash, proving that the future of rap is bright. This mixtape blends raw lyricism and authentic storytelling, taking listeners back to the gritty beats and powerful messages that defined the golden era of rap.

Streaming Everywhere

Major shout-outs to Livemixtapes for leading the charge with the most streams and front-page exposure. You can stream and download "Make Rappers RAP Again" directly on Livemixtapes. Other platforms like Audiomack, MyMixtapez, and Mixcloud are also featuring this fire mixtape, giving it the recognition it deserves.

Top 5 Highlights (In any order)

1. Don Trip - Top Floor Freestyle
2. T.I. Freestyles
3. Trio aka PROFIT - Call Me Profit
4. Larry June - Love of Money
5. Kanye - Like That Remix

Stream Now Don’t miss out on the mixtape that's redefining rap in 2024. Stream "Make Rappers RAP Again" on Livemixtapes and feel the pulse of real hip-hop.

"Make Rappers RAP Again" is more than just a mixtape; it's a declaration. DJ Smoke challenges the status quo and reminds us why we fell in love with hip-hop. Dive in, enjoy, and let’s keep the spirit of real rap alive. Peace, love, and hip-hop!

Arson RGM Ignites the Scene with "4 The Hell Of It The Mixtape" Hosted by DJ Smoke

The Windy City's music scene has always been known for its rich and diverse contributions to hip-hop culture. And with the release of his latest mixtape, "4 The Hell Of It," Chicago artist Arson RGM reaffirms the city's status as a hotbed for musical talent. Hosted by the acclaimed Dj Smoke, this mixtape is not just another project; it's a blazing testament to Arson RGM's skill and artistry.

From the very first track, it's clear that "4 The Hell Of It The Mixtape" is a force to be reckoned with. Arson RGM effortlessly weaves his distinct lyrical style over a variety of beats, each track showcasing his versatility and ability to flow seamlessly across different vibes. Whether it's the gritty realism of street life or introspective moments of self-discovery, Arson RGM leaves no stone unturned in his exploration of themes.

The mixtape, available for streaming and download on livemixtapes.com, opens a window into Arson RGM's world, offering listeners a glimpse of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped him as an artist and an individual. The beats pulse with energy, and the lyrics cut deep, painting vivid pictures of life in Chicago. From tales of survival to declarations of ambition, every track feels like a chapter in Arson RGM's life story.

Yolo Ru is an artist and former athlete born in Trinidad and Tobago, raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Yolo Ru, his mother, and younger brother Koon Ru relocated to America when he was a teenager for more opportunities.

Yolo Ru credits his mother and Jay-Z as his greatest influences and applied their principles of determination to teach himself how to record, mix, engineer, and developed a plan to release their music.

One day while recording, the police arrested Koon Ru for the murder charge mid song and he was handed 7 years. This prompted Yolo Ru to commit to keeping their dreams of being musicians active and the Ru Gang brand was born.

“Make Moves Quietly and Let The Impact Be Loud!!” This is a saying that Yolo Ru lives by and it is evident in his music. Yolo Ru’s most recent releases, “Got It On Me” and “Enemies” have amassed millions of plays on streaming platforms and YouTube, and he has worked with the likes of Duke Deuce, Toosie, Idontknojeffery, and DJ Swamp Izzo. 2022 will embark on the Ru Gang brothers” 12 plus year journey in music and they continue to self-fund their careers and brands.

FollowYolo Ru using the links below

https://www.instagram.com/yolorumusic/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTZYHcPp-H1ksyW8SX87dKw

https://www.facebook.com/YoloRuMusic/

https://open.spotify.com/track/2Do1ezNGMbRxnhanD3XfxE?si=3fca263647834f4f

https://music.apple.com/us/album/mm-mmm/1635804896?i=1635805049

https://soundcloud.com/therugang/mm-mmm?utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

https://audiomack.com/yolorumusic/song/mm-mmm

 

Watch The New Visual For "Six & Glizzy" On YouTube | @cglizzycglizzy

Despite the Title, JonPaul Wallace’s Single, “Love’s Not for Everyone,” Defines Contemporary Pop

DETROIT – After going viral with his rewrite of Lukas Graham’s “7 Years,” JonPaul Wallace has silenced any critics who muttered the phrase, “one-hit-wonder.” While Wallace’s graduation performance of Graham’s hit accumulated more than 20 million views across streaming platforms, Wallace has taken the popularity in stride, focusing on the future.  

“Honestly, it was completely unexpected,” said JonPaul Wallace. “I wanted to cover the song, but it says, 20 years, and I was only seventeen at the time. So, I changed up the lyrics to make it more suitable to me.” 

With a discography of cover songs, each with his take on it, Wallace is now focusing on songwriting and performing. His latest single, “Love’s Not for Everyone,” displays the Michigan native’s abilities to blend pop and soulful rhythms.  

In the slow and heavy melodic vocal tune, Wallace captures the feeling when a relationship ends. Instead of wallowing in the heartache, “Love’s Not for Everyone” is a declaration of acceptance and loneliness that comes after ending a relationship. The ballad which drops in December represents the softer side of Wallace’s contemporary pop style.  

“I definitely pull a lot of inspiration from Motown and old soul music and put that in there, especially with a lot of my background vocals and vocal performances,” he explained. “There’s a lot of old soul influence in what I do. It’s something about growing up around Detroit. Soul is ingrained in me.” 

Interestingly, Wallace did not write “Love’s Not for Everyone” in just one settling. After spending a few days in Northern Michigan on a solo writing trip, Wallace drove home when inspiration struck. “On my drive home, I was on I-75. I actually have a voice memo of me working on what became the bridge of ‘Love’s Not for Everyone,’” he said.  

Even though the bridge was done, he put it aside to work on other songs with faster beats and more dance-like tracks. However, something was nagging at him to finish the piece. So, in typical Wallace style, he stepped away from the up-tempo songs and finished “Love’s Not for Everyone.”

“Lyrically, nothing changed. It was almost like a first try in the studio,” he said, knowing that the song was perfect for him and his fans.  

With a finance and marketing degree from Oakland University, Wallace focuses full-time on being a singer, songwriter, and performer. “When I’m on stage, I’m always behind a guitar or piano. I just have a lot of fun on stage. I don’t try to be too heavy. I want to make music that takes you where you can forget about everything for a little while,” he said.  

While “Love’s Not for Everyone” is a departure from Wallace’s typical upbeat pop songs, it showcases his versatility and strength as a singer and songwriter. Taking a few cues from the legendary Stevie Wonder and Billie Eilish, Wallace said, “My original music brings a different sound to the table. It’s focused on background vocals in a soulful way. But a lot of the production and melodies come from a modern and contemporary pop-dance style. It’s pretty different from what’s out there now. It’s what I do best.” 

Make sure to stay connected to JonPaul Wallace on all platforms for new music, videos, and social posts. 

Website: https://jonpaulwallace.com/

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/jonpaul-wallace/1343124687 

SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/jonpaulwallace/loves-not-for-everyone/s-l4YV3AeSubs?in=jonpaulwallace/sets/next-ep/s-qAJgM8V1Gj3&si=cc60cc24bbf44e38a08bd55257cae571 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0tmMEHwUMgSApF23AkOsXs 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRX9reyGR7F6DepFEH9KD3g 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/jonpaulwallaceofficial 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jonpaulwallace

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jonpaulwallace?

Twitter: www.twitter.com/jonpaulwallace

Jamaican Vibes Come Alive on “Trap Caribbean,” as Al Rickjames Brings It 

ATLANTA – As trap music becomes more mainstream, many artists struggle to stand out among others. For Al Rickjames, the music speaks for it.  

Utilizing his Jamaican heritage and love for trap music, Rickjames combined both for a unique sound on his first album, “Trap Caribbean.” 

“I use my Jamaican culture with dancehall reggae music,” said Al Rickjames. “It is a mixture of trap music and dance. I mix both cultures and call it Trap Caribbean.” 

A Jamaican native, Rickjames is known throughout the club scene as a talented hip hop, dancehall, and songwriter who infuses the sounds from his hometowns of Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Atlanta. The result is a diverse collection of melodies and catchy hooks.   

While his discography is vast, “Trap Caribbean” is the first album the artist released, and fans are in for a masterpiece that throws down a nonstop vibe. Packed with fifteen singles, the album is on multiple streaming platforms and getting noticed as a fan favorite within days of its release.  

“Trap Caribbean” begins with “Anything You Want,” a mixture of all things Al Rickjames. This dancehall gem jumps off from the start and never lets up. “This song is like a metaphoric word for me because it can mean anything,” he said. “It could be talking about a woman, and it can also be talking about living in the street and how things can get crazy things. It’s about me just being a man, and I’m saying that I can give you anything you want.” 

Featuring fellow artist Jubee Kane, “Get Back There” is an afro reggae rap song that demonstrates Rickjames ability to blend genres and get a spectacular sound that no one in the industry can match. “I’m trying to be different. I’m coming at it in a way like nobody. When you listen to it, you just catch a vibe,” he said.  

While Rickjames is riding the current vibe of “Trap Caribbean,” life has not always been good. Struggling throughout his childhood, the 35-year-old artist landed in prison for ten years. Instead of allowing those ten years to become a life sentence of bitterness and regret, Rickjames spent the time educating himself and planning for a better future. “Ten years is a long time, man,” said Rickjames. “It made me come out as a positive person because I took the time and really changed myself so that I could come out as a positive person.” 

The evolution from leaving the hood to living a successful life is evident in his album. “As an artist. I’m trying to be positive in my music, not negative. Even though I’ve been through rough circumstances in my life, I still put out positive music,” he explained. 

Summing up “Trap Caribbean” and its vast array of separate genres and catchy vibes, Rickjames said, “People in the world want to hear different sounds. Nobody sounds like me. I’m creating my own sound. It’s a different wave. It’s my style.” 

Make sure to stay connected to Al Rickjames on all platforms for new music, videos, and social posts. 

Websites: www.alrickjames.com; https://unitedmasters.com/al-rickjames  

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/trap-caribbean-feat-jubee-kane-millye-trapmonstajugg/1591252003 

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/alrickjames 

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/5dI8mddyp8gug9cTOoNR3H?si=GO5ID8BlQIyYKKm2hInSqw&nd=1 

Tidal: https://tidal.com/browse/album/201766538 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzXYkpVRWbAzpeMiZ4lTADg  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rickjames876/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/al_rickjames/?hl=en  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/al_rickjames