#Tupac influence

[trapangeles]

Gat Wesson: Pomona’s Rising Star Blending Realness and Party Vibes

Emerging from the city of Pomona, California, Gat Wesson is a rapper with a story to tell. Grounded in his upbringing and driven by his passion for music, Gat Wesson crafts tracks that reflect his life, his environment, and the experiences of those around him. With his latest single, “See Me,” Gat is proving why he’s a name to watch in the ever-evolving world of hip-hop.

Born From Experience

For Gat Wesson, music isn’t just a craft—it’s a mirror of his life. “Any project or song I lay down is based either on the life I live or a moment I’ve experienced or seen my people go through,” he says. Growing up in Pomona, his surroundings shaped not only his content but also his drive to create music that resonates.

His love for music began at 15, inspired by a scene in Training Day featuring a Dr. Dre instrumental. “It was the first time I’d heard a beat without lyrics,” he recalls. From that moment, he was hooked, diving into beats and eventually penning his first song.

The Story Behind the Name

Gat Wesson’s name is a nod to his beginnings and the energy he brings to the mic. “People would tell me, ‘Yo, my boy, you shot that!’ or ‘You be shooting that shit on the mic.’ That’s where ‘Gat’ came from,” he explains. The “Wesson” was added as a creative spin, inspired by the iconic Smith & Wesson brand, symbolizing precision and impact.

Crafting “See Me”

Gat Wesson’s latest single, “See Me,” is all about fun and energy. “I wanted to create something fans and the audience could turn up and vibe to,” he shares. The track came together effortlessly when an acquaintance sent him a beat pack. “As soon as I heard the beat, I knew what I was about to do,” he adds.

The music video for “See Me” captures the lively essence of the song. Shot in downtown Pomona, the video features a memorable moment when the DJ played the track for a live crowd at a club. “The crowd was really feeling it in a real way—that, for me, was the best moment,” he says.

Influences and Evolution

Gat Wesson’s music is shaped by both legendary and contemporary artists. “Tupac was one of the first artists I listened to, and Lil Wayne has also been a huge influence,” he says. Modern inspirations include Bravo the Bag Chaser, MoneySign Suede, Lil Pete, and Lil Maru. These artists, alongside his daily life experiences, help shape the sound and content of his music.

While Gat is firmly rooted in rap, he’s eager to explore singing and melodies in his future projects. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to try,” he reveals.

The Bigger Picture

Gat Wesson isn’t just about making hits—he’s about building a legacy. “Music doesn’t always have to be serious; sometimes you can just have fun with it,” he says. But he’s also focused on creating a lasting impact. “It’s not about numbers but the mark and legacy you leave behind.”

Short-term, Gat is focused on building a larger fan base and performing live. Long-term, he dreams of starting his own record label and influencing the next generation of artists. “In five years, I hope to be selling out shows, going on tours, and maybe even starting a clothing line,” he says.

Advice to Aspiring Artists

For those looking to follow in his footsteps, Gat Wesson has one clear message: “Keep pushing and don’t let your failures discourage you. Use them as motivation. You’re going to go through moments where you feel like giving up, but put in the work, and your time will come!”

What’s Next?

Fans can expect more from Gat Wesson in the near future. With a vault full of content and a hunger for collaboration, he’s ready to make waves. “You’re definitely going to see a lot more music and collabs,” he promises.

Gat Wesson is a testament to the power of perseverance, authenticity, and staying true to your roots. With “See Me” setting the tone, the future looks bright for this Pomona native.

Have you been spending all your money and time on making music and shooting videos, but still not getting any exposure? Tired of just spinning your wheels? You know to get exposure you need to get featured on blogs, radio stations, playlist, and get your music e-mail blasted out to the masses. Need help getting all that done? Then check out the Package we’ve made available for you below!

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[gpstudios]

Celebrating Rap Music Day: Honoring the Rhythm, Rhymes, and Culture of Hip-Hop 🎤🔥

Happy Rap Music Day! 🎤🔥 Celebrate the rhythm, rhymes, and culture of rap music. Create your own rap, host a listening party, or explore the genre’s history. Here’s to the power of rap! #RapMusicDay #HipHopCulture

Introduction Happy Rap Music Day! 🎤🔥 Celebrated annually on August 2nd, Rap Music Day is a special occasion dedicated to honoring the powerful influence of rap music and its profound impact on culture, society, and the music industry. From its roots in the streets of New York City to becoming a global phenomenon, rap music has transformed the way we express ourselves and tell our stories. Today,…

[thunkdeep]

The Eternal Echo of 2Pac: Beyond Justice and into Myth

2Pac's legacy is a rich tapestry that invites us to look beyond the surface of conspiracy theories and delve into the deeper, more meaningful aspects of his contribution to culture and society.

Disclaimer: The following content is speculative and represents the thoughts of ThinkTank Theorium. While grounded in cultural observations, it’s essential to do your own research and form your own opinions. Introduction: “ 2Pac still haunting those that love him and those that hate him,” a sentiment echoed by many, reverberating through the streets and across online forums, even 27 years after…

[sankofaspirit]

Tupac Amaru Shakur (June 16, 1971 – September 13, 1996), also known as 2Pac, was an iconic American rapper, actor, poet, and activist. Widely regarded as one of the greatest rappers of all time, Tupac’s music and persona transcended entertainment, making him a powerful voice for social justice, cultural pride, and resistance against systemic oppression. Born in Harlem, New York, and later raised in Baltimore and California, Tupac’s artistry often explored themes of poverty, violence, racism, and inequality, alongside messages of hope, resilience, and love.

Tupac’s upbringing was deeply shaped by his family’s political activism. His mother, Afeni Shakur, was a prominent member of the Black Panther Party, and this exposure to revolutionary ideals profoundly influenced his worldview and creative output. Tupac’s discography includes groundbreaking albums such as Me Against the World, All Eyez on Me, and The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory, with songs like "Changes," "Dear Mama," and "Keep Ya Head Up" becoming anthems for social consciousness.

Tupac’s life and work often reflected Pan-Africanist themes. His name itself, "Tupac Amaru," honours Tupac Amaru II, an 18th-century Peruvian revolutionary who fought against Spanish colonial rule, symbolizing a connection to struggles of liberation across the African diaspora. Tupac frequently expressed solidarity with African and Black struggles worldwide, emphasizing unity among oppressed peoples.

In his interviews, Tupac referenced African history and liberation movements, drawing inspiration from figures like Marcus Garvey, Malcolm X, and Kwame Nkrumah. His political consciousness and advocacy for the empowerment of Black communities resonate with the Pan-Africanist ethos of global Black unity and self-determination. Furthermore, his posthumous influence continues to inspire activism and cultural pride in African-descended communities worldwide.

[ravenhatesu]

PJO MUSIC HEADCANNONS??

I fear I haven't read all of the books yet (I'm on the 1st book of toa!) BUT I love thinking abt what everyone would listen to (if they could have spotify and stuff)

These may be very niche but I highly suggest listening to all these songs because they're all really good!

Percy

Indie pop

Like this man probably listens to Wallows and that's a hill I'll die on

But also I feel like he'd love a good song by Plain White-T's, or hozier

BUT EVERYONE HAS THEIR ROOTS. And his, my friend, was definitely country, definitely Sally's influence. Zach Bryan and Luke combs (beautiful crazy, specifically) are definitely on his playlists

He doesn't listen to country a lot anymore, but when he's homesick and missing home he'll put some on

Probably has one of those portable CD players or those old Apple music players (are those allowed??? Rick isn't specific about what technology they can use)

Annabeth

Honestly? I don't feel like she listens to music super often, but I could see her listening to classic rock.

David bowie, The Rolling Stones, ToTo, Fleetwood Mac. Stuff like that

Definitely listens to Music to study

Definitely has a vinyl player as well as a collection (post The last Olympian)

LEO

Everything 2000s party music. From Kesha, to eminem, to Miley Cyrus.

Fergie. He definitely listens to Fergie.

Strong believer in Leo listening to Justin Bieber. He's not a belieber by any means, but if you play "Baby" he's definitely singing along

PITBULL. LEO LOVES PITBULL.

Probably listens to 90s rap too, like Tupac, Ice cube, ect.

Unironically listens to the song "Birthday Sex"

Nico

Also, I don't think he'd listen to midwest emo but I think "Fine, Great" Fits him well in a few different ships (Valgrace. LITERALLY VALGRACE.)

Made his own makeshift mp3 player

This one is kinda obvious but he's my FAVOIRTE to think about for these kinds of headcannons.

Slipknot, skillet, Evanescence, ALL OF ITTT

Anything from classic rock to screamo really.

But when he first started adjusting to modern life? The new music was a whiplash.

That's all I have for now

At the same time, anything that's an Italian classic will make Nico nostalgic

Vinyl, mainly because he already knew how to use jt

Lmk if you want more tho!

[rabiosantologia]

⸻ 𖤓 | VEDIC ASTROLOGY MASTERLIST (Vol. 3)

→ Volume 1 | Volume 2

A BASIC GUIDE TO VEDIC ASTROLOGY

WEAK SUN IN A VEDIC CHART

IN WHICH HOUSES DOES THE SUN FEEL WEAKENED?

VEDIC ASTROLOGY OBSERVATIONS: MARS DOMINANT MEN

THE TOP “MEAN GIRL” PLACEMENTS IN ASTROLOGY

♃ · JUPITER DOMINANT MEN

VEDIC ASTROLOGY OBSERVATIONS: KETU DOMINANT MEN

ROHINI AND S3X SCANDALS

MRIGASHIRA: ALWAYS ON THE RUN | THE PRICE OF SPEAKING THE TRUTH |OBSESSIVE & OBSESSED OVER | THE TRUTH IS SUBJECTIVE? |

ELIZABETH TAYLOR'S MARRIAGES: A BRIEF ANALYSIS REGARDING YOUR CHART

ASHLESHAS & ASHWINIS AND BLOOD

ROHINI NAKSHATRA AND ENVY

ROHINI-MRIGASHIRA & PURVA BHADRAPADA-UTTARA BHADRAPADA

DASHA PERIOD ANALYSIS SPECIAL - PLANETS ACTIVATED BY NAKSHATRA RULERSHIP

4TH AND 10TH HOUSE

MINI ANALYSIS OF ASHLESHA LAGNA NATIVES 🐍

A BRIEF EXPLORATION OF THE: ATMAKARAKAS || AMATYAKARAKAS |

— VEDIC ASTROLOGY OBSERVATION (BASED ON SHOWS/FILMS): PART · #1 | #2 |

VENUS AND SATURN: PLANETARY FRIENDSHIP

THE CORRELATION OF PARVATI AND HASTA

MULA NAKSHATRA: THE PRIMORDIAL COSMIC FORCE

THE STRICTNESS OF SATURN: GIGA CHADS, SCAMMERS & SPIRITUAL GURUS

SATURNIAN WOMEN: BAD GIRLS TO TRAD GIRLS?

WALKING THROUGH THE LABYRINTHS OF PUSHYA

MOMAGERS, STAGE MOM'S & MAMA'S BOYS: THE DYSFUNCTIONAL MOON CHILD

JUPITER & RAHU INFLUENCE AMONG POPSTARS

NAKSHATRA LORDS AND THEIR INFLUENCE

BASIC THEMES OF NAKSHATRAS

THE ESSENTIAL FUNDAMENTALS OF ALL 27 NAKSHATRAS

RESULTS OF BHAVAT BHAVAM (HOUSE TO HOUSE TECHNIQUE): AN ALTERNATIVE PERSPECTIVE

SHATABHISHA & THE RAHUVIAN URGE TO LIE

• SNAKE YONI: MRIGASHIRA & ROHINI | ASPECTS IN VEDIC ASTROLOGY

• → DRISHTI

TUPAC: UTTARA BHADRAPADA MOON

PURVA BHADRAPADA

♃ PHOEBE BUFFAY IS A PUNARVASU ICON

♓︎ | THE PISCES HEART OF CINDERELLA

SATURNIAN WOMEN DOMINANT

🎨 THE ASTROLOGY OF MUSES · A VEDIC EXPLORATION: PART 1 |

— PUNARVASU & SWATI: COSMOGONY, REALITY & CONSCIOUSNESS

— UTTARA BHADRAPADA & REVATI: PSYCHIC INSIGHT, TIME TRAVEL & DREAMS

WHICH HOUSE IN ASTROLOGY IS FOR HAPPINESS

EXPOSING YOUR STELLIUM

ASTROLOGY OF SEX

REVATI'S MYSTERY & MAGIC

YOUR FAV RAPPERS ARE JYESTHA PLACEMENTS

★ 10TH HOUSE · THE FAME RELATED HOUSES IN ASTROLOGY: PART 1 |

12H SYNASTRY

SPOUSE’S APPEARANCE IN VEDIC

DARAKARAKA THROUGH THE HOUSES

🗡️ • KRITTIKA WOMEN · OBSERVATIONS: PT 1 | PT 2 | PT 3 |

KRITTIKA OBSERVATIONS

VISHAKHA OBSERVATIONS

ASHWINI OBSERVATIONS

VISHAKHA: THE DOUBE-HEADED, DOUBLE-LIFED LADIES

— ♂ | MARS, SEX & CELIBACY

MARS DOMINANT WOMEN: BEING UNAPOLOGETIC & SEXUALIZATION

THE FLAMBOYANCE OF MOON DOMINANT MEN

THE PATH OF EVOLUTION OF NAKSHATRA YONIS

CROWS AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP WITH SOME NAKSHATRAS

MERCURY GIRLS AND MOMMY ISSUES

FROM ROHINI/MRIGASHIRA TO JYESHTA: MORGAN LE FAY AND THE MORRIGAN

HASTA & THE FINAL GIRL TROPE IN HORROR FILMS: A (MINI) ANALYSIS

KETU (SOUTH NODE) AND YOUR SPIRITUAL POWERS

IT GIRLS: MARS AND MERCURY

MERCURY DOMINANT THEMES

JUPITER WOMEN AND HUSKY/DEEP OR EVEN SMOKY VOICES | +additional comments

♄ · SATURN DOMINANT THEMES

⎔ THE OUTCASTE NAKSHATRA URGE TO BE ANTI-ESTABLISHMENT: PART 1 || PART 2 ||

• RANDOM ASTROLOGY OBSERVATIONS

☾ MOON DOMINANCE & MANIPULATION: PART 1 / PART 2 /

RAHU & KETU: THE MYSTERY OF BEING | ABUSE & ADDICTION | THE NODAL URGE TO REBRAND | RAHU: OBSESSION, ABUSE & STALKING |

THE ASTROLOGY BEHIND: THE 27 CLUB

PLACEMENTS WITH CREATIVE ENERGY AND APPEAL

ASHWINI, MAGHA AND MULA: DESTRUCTIVE FEELING OF EMPTINESS

INTERACTION RAHU-KETU NAKSHATRAS

INFLUENCE OF THE ASCENDANT LORD

FRANKENSTEIN'S MONSTERS: KETU AND JUPITER NAKSHATRAS

THE BEAST'S NAKSHATRA: PUNARVASU

ANIMALS AND KETU NAKSHATRAS

[moth-and-astras-follower-ev]

CONGRATS!!!

🌃 and 🎸? The character is James Potter

astra:

🎸: what's up aiden!?? thanks so much! so james would probably be a massive fan of the kinks, at least if we're taking about him from a 1970s perspective. modern james? i can see him listening to rap (tyler the creator, tupac, etc) but he also probably knows abbas complete discography because he's a secret superfan.

🌃:

moth !! :

🎸 : (mix of canon & modern au ->) i fear he's a basic bitch who listens to popular shit 😓 he loves hozier, guns n roses, the velvet underrgound, bruno mars, the weeknd, arctic monkeys, anuv jain, bon jovi, bowie, led zeppelin, james taylor & queen ! (he's also sung the entirety of reputation when drunk but that was "lily's influence" shh)

🌃 :

[gamerdiaries7]

My Top 5 Rappers of All Time 🎤🔥

Rap isn’t just music—it’s a movement, a voice, and a reflection of culture. There are some OGs who are missing the list, but had to keep it short!!

1. The Notorious B.I.G. (Biggie Smalls) 🕶️🎶

Biggie’s storytelling was unmatched. From gritty tales of the streets to smooth flows that defined East Coast rap, Biggie’s influence still echoes today. Songs like Juicy and Big Poppa are timeless classics that remind us why he’s the King of New York.

Iconic Line: "It was all a dream, I used to read Word Up! magazine..."

2. Tupac Shakur (2Pac) ✊🎙️

Tupac wasn’t just a rapper; he was a poet, activist, and visionary. His music spoke to struggles, hope, and resilience, resonating far beyond hip-hop. Tracks like Changes and Dear Mama prove his depth and enduring legacy.

Why He’s Legendary: His ability to blend raw emotion with political commentary.

3. Ice Cube ❄️🔥

One of the pioneers of gangsta rap, Ice Cube turned raw street stories into powerful anthems. His work with N.W.A. redefined hip-hop’s impact on culture and politics. Post-rap, Cube showed his versatility as a filmmaker, but his music will always be iconic.

Bangers: It Was a Good Day and Straight Outta Compton.

4. Eminem (Slim Shady) 🎭⚡

Eminem changed the game with his wordplay, storytelling, and unapologetic honesty. From The Marshall Mathers LP to Kamikaze, his ability to push boundaries while staying true to his craft is incredible.

Why He’s Untouchable: No one rides a beat or delivers multi-syllable rhymes quite like Em.

5. J. Cole 🎩📜

The modern storyteller of the bunch, J. Cole’s lyricism bridges old-school rap with today’s sound. His introspective bars and socially conscious themes make him a standout in this generation. Albums like 2014 Forest Hills Drive cemented his place in hip-hop history.

[entelekee]

Blog Post 1 (Introduction & Starting a Blog)

Entelekee: My Journey into Poetry

Hello everyone, welcome to my blog! I’m Entelekee, and I’m excited to share this poetic journey with you. As I dive into exploring poetry more deeply, I see it as a powerful medium to communicate thoughts—especially philosophical ideas and reflections on life, identity, and society.

My exposure to poetry has primarily come through the voices of influential Black poets like Tupac Shakur, Maya Angelou, and Nikki Giovanni. Their words resonate with me, blending raw emotion with sharp insights into culture and humanity. Interestingly, much of the poetry I connect with stems from hip-hop and R&B love songs—genres that often use lyrical storytelling to convey poetic narratives.

I’ve noticed that my familiarity with white poets is limited, which might be seen as unconventional. Admitting this feels surprising, even to myself, but it's part of acknowledging the gaps and unique influences in my own poetic education.

One unexpected poetic source I enjoy is the Book of Psalms from the Bible. While I don't engage with it from a strictly faith-based perspective, I find its verses helpful in exploring and understanding self-expression.

I look forward to expanding my poetic horizons and engaging in conversations about the diverse voices that shape this timeless art form. I am looking forward to this journey but I am also shaking in my boots thinking about others reading my poetry, or at least my stab at it.

[thestupidhelmet]

In what ways would you say the T90S gang don't feel like 90s teenagers at all? The scene where Gwen is like: "let's just say it: masturbation" out loud in the Hub comes to mind, but I am sure there's more. I am curious what your take is.

"Speaking as a child of the nineties ... " -- Eddie Vedder, "Habit"

Kurt Cobain's suicide was a traumatic and divisive tragedy that impacted '90s teens significantly and in a variety of ways. That '90s Show begins a little over a year after his death, yet no one mentions him or Nirvana. Watching Courtney Love read portions of Kurt's suicide letter, hearing her voice, was a collective experience. Many teens grieved deeply. Some contemplated suicide, some attempted it, and some sadly succeeded.

Insensitive teens reacted with ridicule, contempt, and glee to those who grieved his passing.

The Pacific Northwest rock scene (dubbed grunge as a joke, but the name stuck), its meaningful lyrics and '70s-classic-rock- and punk- influenced music, and the social activism of bands like Pearl Jam had a profound impact on teens in the '90s. That influence is wholly missing in That '90s Show.

East Coast and West Coast gangsta rap was also a big part of teen culture in the '90s, including the deadly feud between the two groups (granted, Tupac's murder occurred in September 1996, and T9S season 2 ended in August 1996).

At the most positive end of the 1990s social spectrum, kids grew up with a diverse group of friends and peers -- not only in terms of race, ethnicity, religion (or the lack thereof), sexuality, and gender, but also personalities, life backgrounds, music preferences, and all levels of academic and emotional intelligence (from Kelso to the direct opposite of Kelso 😂).

Multicultural clubs were a thing, where people shared their cultures (e.g., food, family history, religious rituals, etc.) and empathized with one another as humans first.

Differences of all kinds were points of connection, not division. This inclusive, accepting majority of students across grades 9-12 stood in sharp contrast to the small group of exclusionary, (hard) drug-addicted white kids who believed in a Jackie-esque social hierarchy / popularity. They'd ruled in middle school, but the majority of high school students didn't fit their ideal.

Gay-straight alliances were also a thing, with openly gay teachers running them. Teen drag queens performed at school talent shows. Gay teens brought their same-sex romantic partners to Prom.

But, as I said, this was the positive end of the spectrum. At the most negative, '90s kids grew up with other kids who had neo-nazi leanings and felt pressured to join for fear of becoming isolated and/or a target. X-ethnicity or X-race kids vs. Y-ethnicity or Y-race kids was a thing, with both being victim and perpetrator depending on the school. Homophobia was normal, as was ableism.

The '90s teen experience was not homogeneous.

Many teens had troubled family lives with some level of instability. At the worst, teens became emancipated from their parents before the age of eighteen and financially supported themselves. Some teens lived in trailer parks with Edna-esque mothers and absent fathers. Others lived with their adult boyfriends by choice. Still others were kicked from their mom's house because Mom was bipolar and unmedicated or teen was addicted to speed; these teens found shelter at their best friends' more stable homes.

Teens could be politically active or ignorant, but they weren't necessarily dogmatic in their political leanings. They debated each other respectfully.

Shows like Saturday Night Live, The Simpsons, Beavis and Butthead, Ren and Stimpy, the WWF/WWE, Seinfeld, and My So-Called Life were consistently referenced and discussed.

People living with AIDS visited schools and spoke about their experiences, as did Holocaust survivors.

School sports teams, whether small scale or large, were very much a part of '90s teen life. Either one was in a team, a cheerleader or step dancer, or had friends on the teams.

But teens' sense of safety and place in the U.S. was different than today. Again, it wasn't homogeneous, but it did have an essence specific-to-the-decade -- and this essence is not portrayed in That '90s Show. The '90s for teens was a combination of urgency, seriousness, self-importance, self-sacrifice, narcissism, empathy, kids having life experiences (due to parental neglect or willful ignorance) that were far too dangerous for them to have.

The Internet was only starting to be used by teens, and it consisted of message boards and twenty-five cent emails. Then chat rooms.

Playing video and computer games together, in the same room, was a common pastime.

Sexual activity was discussed among the closest of friends, as was masturbation, but in private and generally one-on-one. But teens made out in school stairwells. Couples had arguments in school stairwells. They broke up in school stairwells. 😂

Parties at teens' houses included everyone from freshmen to seniors. Freshmen binged forties, bottles of malt liquor. Lots of kids smoked pot on the balcony. Sex happened in bedrooms. Teens danced drunkenly.

Some girls went to age-appropriate clubs, and others used fake IDs to get into twenty-one-and-over clubs ... got into vans with men twice their age and survived the experience. Sexual consent was dubious at best but, in reality, non-existent. Lots of statutory rape of drunken teens who didn't view or understand what happened as rape.

Schools were filled with a measure of high functioning alcoholics and stoners (both academically-minded and not), kids who did hard drugs like speed and heroin -- and sadly didn't survive the experience.

They were also filled with academically-focused students who were relatively straight-edge. They were friends with the stoners and high-functioning alcoholics -- and were never pressured to join in on their drug and alcohol use (yet again, not a homogeneous experience).

Some students (of all races and ethnicities) were drug dealers.

That '70s Show, while the era is part and parcel of the characters and stories, captures the essence of what '90s teens experienced to a good degree. It successfully explores the seriousness of teenage struggles while also being funny.

The superficiality of That '90s Show and its characters is why I didn't connect with it deeply. For example, Leia's '90s Lisa Loeb fantasy is funny but fluff. I didn't want or need her to be a high-functioning alcoholic who's also class president with a GPA of 3.7. 😅 She also didn't have to be bisexual or gay.

But the reasons given for her struggles as a teen in Chicago are flimsy. She comes across as somewhat depressed in T9S's first episode. She's portrayed as having two loving and emotionally stable parents, as well as an equally loving and stable extended family. Being an outcast at her Chicago school because she's on the debate team and in band -- it's possible but unlikely.

Higher emotional stakes were necessary, and they would've made the humor more impactful. Perhaps Leia actually suffered from depression, likely reactive as it's portrayed on the show. It clears up once her friendship with Gwen (and Gwen's friends) begins. Why? What about her life in Chicago is so painful? Not fitting in with her peers, sure, but give a deeper and more realistic/tied-to-the-'90s reason.

As I've discussed previously, I would've written her as bisexual or gay. But she could also have a learning disability -- and frustrated, emotionally disregulated reactions to it that established a reputation among her school peers from first grade, a rep she couldn't shake even as she learned tools to work with her learning disability.

Or maybe her group of best friends excluded her once they reached middle school because their interests no longer aligned. They moved fast toward older activities (e.g., sex, drinking, drugs) while she remained focused on academics and being twelve and thirteen. And/or became invested in what was going on in the country and the world.

Or she was bullied at school from day one with a headmaster who didn't care.

Or Eric and Donna's parenting style put too many limits on her.

Or anything that carries some weight.

Gwen's character in season 1, by comparison, is more connected to the '90s era. Not by much, but her home life is a strange mix of stable and messy. She has riot grrrl vibes, but the show doesn't dive deeper into this aspect of her. Instead, they make her rebelliousness generic and not specific to the feminist movement of the time. The show should've embraced the specificity of the '90s instead of sprinkling it on like glitter.

Jay is a modified Kelso clone who says bro with Nate to the point of torture. He and Nate resemble Joey Lawrence's character on Blossom to a degree, a '90s sitcom produced in the '90s (and used the Pinciotti kitchen set before T7S did). But Jay and Nate are both cartoonish, Nate less so in season 2, and they could be plucked out of the 1990s era and placed into today's without any consequences for their characters.

The above is true for all the T9S kids. Nothing about the '90s era is fundamental to who they are.

[floof-ghostie]

I can't stop thinking about Watch the Party Die, how it ties into Kendrick's upcoming Superbowl performance and how this is about to be a major moment for hip hop as a genre. Watch the Party Die is a warning for what's ahead; people consider this another diss, or the end credits for the beef between him and Drake (and I get where this is coming from) but this is bigger than that. This is a diss towards the whole industry, from the rappers whose hearts are not in the music (making a quick buck), who abuse/oversexualise women and preach drug use/materialism and negatively influence their young audiences, to the influencers like Akademics that dickride these artists for favours and clout.

I think it was a strategic choice to have this song drop AFTER Kendrick's Superbowl performance. I think we all were expecting Kendrick to come out blasting Not Like Us (not saying it's not gonna happen), and dancing on Drake's grave for the second time, but this kind of shook up our perceptions of it. He's done beefing with Drake. He's clipped off the rotted branch that's contaminating hip hop. It's time for him to nurture and heal the art form that he loves so dearly. This is not going to be your average performance.

Take what I've said with a grain of salt; I genuinely think that this is something that Kendrick is going to have to be very careful with. This is still the Superbowl, and he was chosen by Jay Z, aka the face of black capitalism. He can't exactly come out the gate swinging with this, but he has a golden opportunity to make a supreme impact. I don't think this is an opportunity that he's going to play around with.

This brings me back to that one lyric from Like That (the song that kicked this shit off); "It's up, lost too many soldiers not to play it safe". It's almost like Kendrick's intentions were made clear from the beginning of this beef; with wisdom from artists he enjoys like Lecrae, and Tupac, his friends who passed away, and his own healing journey, this makes me think this entire beef was Kendrick killing the rot that has infected hip hop. He's started with Drake, and now he's letting the industry know that its time is limited.

So no, Watch the Party Die is not the end credit scene of his beef with Drake. This is the opening sequence to the second act.

[jrat226]

For this hot takes blog imma count down the top 6 most annoying music fan bases

1. Swifties (I don't have to explain)

2. Eminem stans (omg we get it he was good back in the day please STFU we get it he's a legend we understand admit he's washed up a lil and move on get the dick out your mouth)

3. Army (BTS fans) (you people are some of the most annoying people to ever exist, all their songs sound the same, y'all act like they're the best thing ever when there are several kpop grounds better than them

4. Kanye West fans (yes he's influenced a lot of people but at the end of the day, he's a semi solid rapper who hasn't made a good album in a solid 5 or 6 years, he's washed and y'all need to accept it, also supporting a man that said "slavery was a choice" and "hitler was right"... Get help

5. Kendrick Lamar fan boys (as of recently y'all won't shut up, yes he's amazing give it a break, You're making me hate him more than he hates drake just chill please, and not every line has to be a quadrupole entendre, so please shut it)

6. Any boom bap/ 90 rapper old heads and kids (for the old heads yes, they we're great for their time and changed the game forever, and we're thankful, but stop acting like they didn't talk about the same shit today's rappers do, they talked about gangs, drugs and bitches too, where do you think today's rappers got it from, your favorites laid the ground work, and beats and styles change over time, stop acting like lyrical is dead, you're just to lazy to look for it and bitch about what's on the radio, and as for the literal infants glazing tupac, stfu, you weren't alive, continue watching dora bro)

[cyberpunkonline]

The Power of Names...

In the shadow-drenched alleys of cyberpunk landscapes and the rhythmic beats echoing through urban streets, names carry weight far beyond simple identifiers. This essay delves into the powerful role of street names and pseudonyms in cyberpunk and rap cultures, while also exploring how names function within magical practices as symbols of power and transformation.

Identity Concealed, Power Revealed

In cyberpunk, a genre steeped in advanced technology and societal decay, pseudonyms act as both armor and weapon. These names provide anonymity and protection from authoritarian eyes and hint at a person's technological prowess or hacking skills. For example, Case from William Gibson's *Neuromancer* uses his name as a shield, safeguarding his real identity while suggesting his expertise in navigating cyberspace.

Rap artists adopt pseudonyms to craft personas that resonate deeply with their personal narratives and artistic ambitions. These aliases, like Tupac Shakur’s Makaveli or Notorious B.I.G.’s Biggie Smalls, serve as both protective veils and powerful branding tools, encapsulating the essence of their bearer’s style and story.

The Magical Power of Names

Names hold significant power in various magical traditions across the world. In many cultures, knowing the true name of an entity or person is believed to grant control over them. This concept is evident in historical grimoires and modern magical practices, where summoning spirits or casting spells often requires the true names of entities to effectively harness their power. This belief underscores the idea that names are not just labels but containers of essence, imbued with the ability to influence and alter reality.

Within both cyberpunk and rap, the act of naming can be seen as a form of modern magic—creating a persona that can protect, define, and empower its holder, much like how witches and wizards use names to control supernatural forces. This symbolic practice emphasizes the transformative power of names, echoing ancient traditions while remaining firmly rooted in contemporary cultural expressions.

Rebellion and Reclamation Through Renaming

The practice of adopting pseudonyms in cyberpunk and rap stems from a need to stand out and declare autonomy from societal norms. In cyberpunk, names are tools of rebellion against oppressive systems, helping characters avoid detection and persecution. Similarly, in rap, pseudonyms empower artists to shape their identities and articulate their resistance to socio-economic marginalization.

Unity and Identity in Subcultures

Pseudonyms in cyberpunk and rap transcend their functional use, becoming symbols of unity within these cultures. These names forge bonds among individuals who share similar struggles and values, creating a shared identity that strengthens community ties. Similarly, in magical practices, groups or covens often adopt magical names that signify their spiritual connection and collective power, enhancing the group’s cohesion and shared magical efficacy.

Conclusion: The Enigmatic Power of Names

As digital and physical worlds increasingly intersect, the relevance of pseudonyms drawn from cyberpunk and rap only intensifies, paralleling the enduring significance of names in magical traditions. These practices illustrate a universal truth across cultures and epochs: names hold the power to protect, define, and transform. Understanding the depth of this power offers insight into not only cultural and subcultural dynamics but also the fundamental human need to define and control our identities and destinies.

[hiphopvibe1]

Sheryl Crow slams Drake for using AI Tupac vocals

Sheryl Crow speaks about Drake for using AI Tupac vocals   The increase of artificial intelligence in music production, is causing some musicians to speak out against the tool. In a recent interview with the BBC, Grammy-winning artist Sheryl Crow didn’t hold back when discussing the rising influence of artificial intelligence in music. Specifically, she took aim at Drake and his controversial…

[thepopcultureramble]

Now, lemme ramble a little bit.

I wasn't born in the 1990s, but its cultural impact remains. I'm here to talk about the music and cultural impact, in particular, because many would argue that it was the golden era. I got my glimpse through TV shows and music videos. 'The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air' was on heavy rotation in my household, as were Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston.

That was my introduction: my mom singing 'I Will Always Love You' while MTV music videos replayed in the background.

But the impact it has on pop culture today, 34 years after its emergence, is what really gets me. You can see its fingerprints all over contemporary music, fashion, and even internet memes. It's as if the '90s created a blueprint for coolness that refuses to fade away.

I can't imagine what hearing TLC's 'Creep' live right when it dropped would have been like, or being in the crowd when Kurt Cobain was scream-singing 'Smells Like Teen Spirit.'

It's that era that birthed groups and acts like Flo and Olivia Rodrigo.

You know, there's something about the rawness of '90s music that just hits different. It was a time when artists weren't afraid to push boundaries and speak their truth. Take Tupac Shakur, for example. His lyrics were like poetry, tackling issues like racism, poverty, and social injustice head-on. And then you had the Notorious B.I.G., spinning tales of street life with unmatched skill and charisma.

These were more than just songs; they were snapshots of life in the '90s, capturing the struggles and triumphs of a generation.

But it wasn't all serious stuff. The '90s also gave us some of the catchiest pop hits of all time. From the infectious beats of Spice Girls to the smooth grooves of Boyz II Men, there was something for everyone on the airwaves. And let's not forget about the rise of boy bands like *NSYNC and Backstreet Boys.

Ballads ruled the charts, with artists like Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, and Brian McKnight belting out love songs that still give us all the feels today. Whether you were nursing a broken heart or falling head over heels, there was a '90s jam for every romantic occasion.

Adele was kind of a product of that too.

Now, let's switch gears and talk about fashion. The '90s were all about self-expression, and nowhere was that more evident than in the clothes we wore. Grunge was king, with flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and Doc Martens becoming the unofficial uniform of rebellious youth everywhere. And let's not forget about the rise of streetwear, with brands like Tommy Hilfiger, FUBU, and Supreme making a splash on the scene.

But perhaps the most iconic fashion statement of the '90s was the rise of the supermodel. From Cindy Crawford to Naomi Campbell, these runway goddesses epitomised glamour and sophistication, setting the bar high for fashionistas everywhere.

So yeah, the '90s may be a thing of the past, but its influence? It still lives here.

This was a ramble by,

The PCR.

[hit-song-showdown]

Year-End Poll #47: 1996

[Image description: a collage of photos of the 10 musicians and musical groups featured in this poll. In order from left to right, top to bottom: Los del Tio, Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men, Celine Dion, The Tony Rich Project, Mariah Carey, Tracy Chapman, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Donna Lewis, Toni Braxton, Keith Sweat. End description]

More information about this blog here

A lot of major moments to talk about this year. Like my birth. I was born out of the Macarena Summer.

In 1996, the Bayside Boys remix of Los del Rio's Macarena became a cultural phenomenon as well as an incredibly popular song (I'm clarifying it's a remix, because the non-Bayside Boys version also reached the Hot 100 at number 98). The track's record for longevity in the Hot 100 would only be broken almost two decades later by Adele.

Speaking of record-breaking songs, One Sweet Day, the duet between Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men, is a towering R&B number. At 16 weeks, the song held the record for most weeks at the number one spot until Lil Nas X came out with Old Town Road in 2019.

One Sweet Day is a song about grief, specifically the track was inspired by the ongoing AIDS epidemic. It's not the only song on this poll related to this issue. Bone Thugs-n-Harmony wrote Tha Crossroads to honor Eazy-E, one of the establishing figures behind the West Coast rap scene who passed away from AIDS-induced pneumonia in 1995 when he was just 30-years-old.

Sadly, the stretch between 1995 and 1996 would be marked by several losses among legends in rap and hip-hop. In 1996, The Notorious B.I.G. and Tupac Shakur would be murdered with only a few months between their deaths. These losses will be relevant in a direct manner when we get to the next poll, but it's not an exaggeration to say that the music world was shaken by their deaths. There were those who were quick to make bad-faith arguments blaming the violent subject matter of the music itself. And while the coast-based rivalries did get extremely intense, I think this is a reductive conclusion to come to. To many, however, this moment in music history felt like a nation-wide wake up call.

As rap became more mainstream and started to absorb more of pop music influences into its sound, the genre was bound to change. We've already seen this with the increasing number of R&B fusions and rap verses on pop songs. But some mark this year as another turning point for the genre, as the gangster rap era starts to fade in the mainstream music scene. Even outside of rap, after this point pop music starts to feel a lot sunnier, for lack of a better term. Whether this is due to coping with these recent tragedies, a larger demographic of younger music listeners dictating the majority taste, people gearing up for the new millennium, the record industry reaching record numbers in profits, or genuine positivity and optimism (think that might have been still a thing lol), the times are certainly about to change.