On this debut episode of We Need To Talk joining the Black Effect Podcast Network, Nyla Symone sits with R&B sensations Dej Loaf and Jacques to discuss Jacquees and Dej being back together and the energy is unreal. Their first collab back in 2017 left fans wanting more, and now, with F*** A Friend Zone Two, they’ve reignited that creative spark. In the studio, they picked up right where they left off, navigating life’s ups and downs while keeping their musical chemistry strong. You can feel the growth—this project brings a new level of maturity and depth, showing just how far they’ve come.

Of course, we can’t talk about them without giving Detroit its flowers. The city’s hip-hop scene has been through it, but the grind is finally paying off. Detroit artists are getting the respect they’ve always deserved, bringing a sound that’s impossible to ignore. And with the ongoing creative exchange between Detroit and the Bay Area, we might be in for some legendary collaborations. Our convo dives into all of it—the personal stories, the struggles, and the wins that make Detroit’s music scene what it is today.

Dej Loaf and Jaquees' 'F**k A Friend Zone 2' is out now!

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Discover the unexpected journey of OMB Peazy, whose song "Lay Down" soared to new heights years after its original release, all thanks to the viral power of TikTok. Our conversation with OMB Peazy uncovers his transformation from a shy, camera-averse artist into a confident, multi-dimensional musician. He shares how his collaboration with Glorilla injected fresh energy into his work, while also emphasizing the importance of crafting music that stands the test of time. Join us as we navigate the whirlwind of fame and artistic growth, highlighting OMB Peazy's commitment to authenticity and his evolving musical style.

Journey through the complexities of balancing fame with personal growth. B-OMB Peazy opens up about the therapeutic role music plays in his life, offering him a way to express vulnerability amidst the challenges of public life. His stories reveal the lessons learned from fame, the importance of staying true to oneself, and how these experiences have enriched his personal and professional journey. We also share a light-hearted exchange about his fashion choices and personal anecdotes from life on tour, providing listeners with a glimpse into the playful side of this rising artist.

Reflect on the power of personal transformation with OMB Peazy as he talks about how personal style and family support have shaped his journey. A touching tribute to his grandma Daisy highlights the grounding influence of family in his life. We wrap up with a look into his latest album, "Drifting Away," and OMB Peazy's aspirations for future success, aiming for platinum records and achieving personal milestones by 2025. This episode promises a heartfelt exploration of growth, resilience, and self-discovery, offering listeners a chance to see the many layers of this talented artist.

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What happens when a passion for drumming transitions into a flourishing career in music production? This Is London, a talented artist with Nigerian roots currently based in London, joins us to share his captivating journey from choir singing in his hometown to creating dynamic beats across continents. Raised in a family steeped in church music, he found his rhythm early on and pursued drumming until he discovered the world of music production at 17. Our conversation with This Is London offers an intimate look at how his Nigerian upbringing, combined with a love for vintage shopping in places like LA and Paris, has influenced both his art and lifestyle choices.

Listeners will be transported into the vibrant world of This Is London, where cultural influences and a distinctive musical style come alive. Despite his strong connection to Afro beats, he talks about how his mother's eclectic taste in music, featuring legends like Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson, shaped his soundscape. His move to London opened new doors, allowing him to explore genres like rap and R&B and collaborate with artists who inspire him. This Is London's story is one of adaptability and ambition, as he shares his pursuit to expand his musical horizons and challenge himself creatively.

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Get ready to be inspired by the legendary Paul Wall as he takes us behind the scenes of the Houston rap scene, sharing stories that only someone of his stature could tell. Discover his initial skepticism about the iconic track "Still Tippin'" and how he transformed financial struggles into a booming business with Johnny Dang. As we navigate through Paul’s journey, hear about his admiration for emerging artists like That Mexican OT and the collaborative spirit that bridges seasoned musicians with the new wave of talent in the Texas rap scene.

Explore the rich tapestry of Houston's musical evolution, as we trace the history from Rap-A-Lot and Screwed Up Click to the global influence of Swishahouse. We celebrate artists like Megan Thee Stallion and Travis Scott, who have catapulted the Houston sound to international fame. This episode highlights the unique cultural blend of Texas, influenced by church, blues, and car culture, with a nod to key figures like Mike Dean and Pimp C for their foundational contributions to the region's iconic style.

We tackle the ongoing challenge of preserving regional music identities amidst mainstream trends, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's roots while embracing new influences. As Houston grows as a cultural hub, we express excitement over collaborations with producers like DJ Fresh and G-Luck, and the profound impact of artists like Zero. Paul shares lessons in gratitude and perspective, offering insights into parenting, faith, and seizing opportunities. Plus, don't miss our surprise album release announcement, promising fresh tunes and a reminder to pursue your passions.

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Discover the captivating journey of Akiya, a talented artist whose new single "F-A-F-O" is turning heads in the music world. Akiya takes us on a personal exploration, from her beginnings singing in church, supported by her mother and inspired by her DJ grandmother, to finding her sound amidst the vibrant musical landscapes of Los Angeles and Atlanta. Her story is a testament to how diverse cultural experiences and transitions—from Arkansas to Memphis and beyond—have shaped her unique artistic voice.

This episode promises a deep dive into Akiya's process of self-discovery through music, marked by transformative travels to Miami and LA. Through collaborations with Latin and Jamaican producers, Akiya uncovers the boundless possibilities of her craft, embracing her vulnerability with tracks like "Soft Girl Era," which channels feminine energy and emotional introspection. As she gears up for her next project, "Dumb, Crazy, Stupid," listeners are in for an inspiring ride through real-life emotions and universally relatable tunes. Follow her journey and connect with her artistry on Instagram @whoisakia for more updates and insights.

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What happens when an artist steps into her “villain era” not to spread chaos, but to reclaim her power and self-worth? Join us as we sit down with the talented Muni Long, who shares her journey of empowerment through her latest project, "Revenge." Muni opens up about the challenges she faces as a woman, especially a Black woman, in the music industry, and how she's learning to set boundaries and let others earn their place in her life. With candid reflections on self-care and authenticity, Muni offers a fresh perspective on navigating the pressures of success while staying true to oneself.

Motherhood often changes everything, and for Muni Long, it has reshaped her approach to personal boundaries and career choices. We delve into how parenting has sharpened her focus and assertiveness, redefining what truly matters in professional and personal spaces. Our discussion also takes a critical look at modern relationships for career-driven women, emphasizing the importance of balanced partnerships grounded in mutual respect and support. Muni shares her insights on the value of genuine connection and the shared growth that defy the unequal dynamics often faced by women in the pursuit of their dreams. And because life isn’t all about serious conversations, we wrap up with a fun segment of "Questions that Need Answers," where Muni offers humorous takes on personal growth, financial independence, and cultural heritage. From astrology and its influence on identity to her adventures in tracing ancestry, Muni's reflections mix laughter with thoughtful exploration. We round off the episode with exciting news about her upcoming projects, including Grammy nominations and new music, ensuring a captivating mix of empowerment, laughter, and cultural exploration.

00:41 Muni Long is in the building! - She talks about her revenge era her dreams, dealing with people doubting her, & fulfilling someone else's expectations.
07:41 Everybody always tells you you're on a clock but it's a fake clock.
10:23 Superpowers: Muni just wants to be held, even if it's at gunpoint 🤣
15:09 Muni Long & give their opinions on relationships, expectations of men and women, & how to connect with yourself.
21:55 Helping women find their voices when people try to project their ideas on them.
25:10 Questions That Need Answers: Muni Long Answers The Hard Questions!
27:32 Muni gives her 18 year old self some advice.
28:35 Finding out heritage and how difficult it is now knowing where you're from.
33:49 Embracing grammy season, singing at the White House, & another brand new album in the works.
35:17 Muni is okay with not having features but she DOES features. Hook-giving Muni is top teir.

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What happens when a rising star in the music industry steps out of his comfort zone and embraces the unexpected? You're about to find out as we sit down with DC the Don for a truly engaging conversation. From an unforgettable encounter with a homeless man in New York City discussing Mike Tyson to spontaneous adventures inspired by his Instagram followers, DC shares the stories that showcase his genuine connection with people and his adaptable spirit. We also uncover DC's thoughts on black culture and his dream of living in Tokyo, revealing how Asian influences are making a mark on pop culture.

As we navigate through cultural landscapes, DC sheds light on the music industry's vibrant hotspots, highlighting both the allure and the superficial challenges of places like LA and Atlanta. We delve into his latest work, "Rebirth," which DC considers his true debut album. It's an exploration of personal growth and artistic authenticity, featuring a meaningful collaboration with Ombre on the track "Knock Me Off My Feet." Our discussion paints a picture of DC's journey towards creative freedom, emphasizing his desire for genuine connections in an industry often filled with facades.

Wrapping things up, we explore the fulfilling side of creating art for oneself, inspired by Rick Rubin's philosophy, and DC's personal reflections on life and self-care. Through a playful game of "Questions that Need Answers," DC shares valuable life lessons and the joy of urban exploration, including the unique perspective of experiencing the city while on shrooms. Before signing off, we channel the excitement surrounding DC's latest release, "Rebirth," and offer ways for listeners to stay connected with him on social media. This episode is a blend of insightful narratives and heartfelt exchanges, capturing the essence of DC the Don's artistic journey.

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What if you could start fresh in a new city, or even a new country, and redefine your identity? Join us for an engaging conversation with Smino as he shares his personal journey with music, reflections on past projects like "Netflix and Duse," and the exciting evolution leading to his latest work, "Maybe a Nirvana." Smino opens up about the creative process, the upsides and downsides of independent artistry, and his plans for multiple album releases in 2024. The candid insights and humor provide a window into his unique artistic mindset and future ambitions.

Ever considered packing up and moving to a new city to escape reminders of a past relationship? We tackle the emotional and logistical challenges of leaving long-term relationships behind, with discussions about potential new beginnings in places like Los Angeles and Rio de Janeiro. We explore the cultural adjustment and the thrill of immersing oneself in new communities and music scenes. This lively and heartfelt exchange emphasizes self-empowerment and embracing one's identity, while recognizing the influence of family and finances when choosing bustling cities like London.

Chaos meets creativity at the Country Cousins Festival, where we envision transforming St. Louis into a year-round art hub. Our light-hearted discussions touch on unexpected confessions, humorous anecdotes, and even the playful idea of launching a hair care line inspired by Madam C.J. Walker. With shout-outs to hidden musical gems like Marco Plus's "Soulless" and nods to fan creativity, this episode is rich with laughter, appreciation, and the boundless connection that art and community bring.

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