Cozz, the 31-year-old rapper from South Central Los Angeles and a signee to J. Cole’s Dreamville label, is entering a new era—one rooted in clarity, accountability and growth. In a recent conversation with EBONY at Dreamville Fest, the rapper opened up about his evolving creative process, finding freedom from past constraints, and the personal reckoning […]
In 2009, Keri Hilson’s remix of “Turnin’ Me On” ignited controversy due to lyrics perceived as disses toward fellow artists Beyoncé and Ciara. The backlash from fans, particularly Beyoncé’s dedicated Beyhive, was swift and intense, casting a long shadow over Hilson’s burgeoning solo career. Despite her talents as a singer and songwriter, the incident led […]
In collaboration with Wyclef Jean and TIAA, Pusha T showcased his lyrical presence on the track “Paper Right,” which speaks on the topic of gaps in retirement savings and generational wealth. Joining Pusha T and Wyclef Jean on the track are Lola Brooke, Capella Grey, and Flau’jae each contributing their unique talents to the project. […]
Ciara returns with “Ecstasy,” a steamy new single released under her Beauty Marks label via Warner Music/ADA Worldwide—and the black-and-white visual that accompanies it reminds fans exactly why she’s still a force in R&B. Sleek, minimal and dripping with sensuality, the video plays like an homage to her past iconic visuals while reaffirming her presence […]
Joe Kay doesn’t just DJ—he curates worlds. For over a decade, the co-founder and head of Soulection has helped shape a global movement rooted in discovery, intention and community. What started as a radio show has grown into a cultural institution, where genre-fluid sounds and emotionally rich storytelling come together to connect people across borders. […]
After a 13-year hiatus since her 2012 album The MF Life, Toronto-born R&B songstress Melanie Fiona makes a compelling return with her latest EP, Say Yes, released on April 4, 2025. Known for emotive hits like “It Kills Me” and “4AM,” Fiona’s new project reflects her evolution as an artist and individual. The journey between […]
After a sun-drenched opening day, Day Two of Dreamville Fest arrived with a welcome breeze that seemed to shift the entire atmosphere—cooler air, familiar routes and a crowd now fully in rhythm with the grounds of Dorothea Dix Park in Raleigh, North Carolina. Unlike the tentative curiosity of Day One, Sunday felt like a homecoming. […]
The legacy of one of hip-hop’s most influential rap collectives is far from finished. In an exclusive interview with EBONY at Dreamville Fest 2025, Turk of the Hot Boys confirmed that the pioneering group will hit the road for a 30-city “Hot Boys Reunion” tour, alongside a separate “Cash Money 30th Anniversary” celebration. The upcoming […]
In a recent press conference on Apr. 3, 2025, Raleigh city officials and Dreamville Fest organizers unveiled plans for a new music festival set to commence in 2026 at Dorothea Dix Park. This announcement comes as the original Dreamville Fest, founded by North Carolina native J. Cole, executes its final iteration this weekend. Sascha Stone […]
Raleigh, NC turned into a vibrant epicenter of Black creativity and communal energy this weekend as Dreamville Fest 2025 officially kicked off. Long before the gates opened at Dorothea Dix Park, the Dreamville team laid the foundation for more than just a festival—they curated a cultural experience rooted in accessibility, education, and joy. The festival […]
