Intro: Every once in a while, an artist emerges who doesn’t just make music — they reflect the raw truth of where they come from. Broward County’s own Ricotana is one of those voices. With a background rooted in the hustle and a heart grounded in purpose, he speaks for those coming up from nothing, blending authenticity, pain, and passion into every bar. We caught up with him to talk about his journey, his sound, and what’s coming next.
For those just tuning in — who are you, and what do you represent through your music? I’m Ricotana just a product of my environment real thorough guy I represent the people from the bottom coming from nothing you know
What was the turning point that made you take music seriously as a career? I was always hustling in the streets couldn’t get past that hundred K mark because I’ll fuck the money up going to the strip clubs and making sure the guys around me is straight I was around a few well known rappers. I seen how easy they was making money in the music and the police wasn’t harassing them. I just wanted a change I said fuck it. I’m bout to do this for real.
How would you describe your sound to someone who’s never heard you before? My sound is unmatched I got up north and down south lingo. You can’t compare my sound to nobody else just my deliverance and tone of my voice is raw and addictive on these beats
What does a typical studio session look like for you — is it planned out or all off vibe? Honestly, I make the best music when I’m alone. It’s never planned out. However, I’m feeling that day. I just hit the studio and do what I do.
Which song or project of yours means the most to you, and why? I got a project. I’m working on right now. Call April fools every song on there is sentimental to me. I put my all into this. I was going through a lot in my life at the time of making this project so you’re gonna get a lot of pain music.
What’s something people don’t see behind the scenes of your grind? How much of a father I am I’m still a father at the end of the day while I’m chasing my dreams i gotta spend time with the kids. Cause you can’t get that back.
What’s been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned so far on your journey? It ain’t about what you know it’s not about how good your music is. It’s about who you know that could put you in position and once you get in you’re work ethic determines how long you stay in
What’s next for you — anything fans should be on the lookout for? Yeah, stay tuned for this project that I’m working on a lot of songs. A lot of features a lot of visuals.
Outro: Ricotana is proof that real stories, told with no filter, still cut through the noise. From the strip clubs to the studio booth, from fatherhood to the frontlines of hip-hop — his journey is just beginning. Keep your eyes locked and your ears open. This is one voice you won’t be able to ignore for long.
South Florida, stand up! Ricotana, one of Broward County’s most consistent voices, is back just in time to set the summer on fire with his new single, Easy To Love — and trust us, the title says it all.
Built on smooth production, addictive melodies, and Ricotana’s signature delivery, Easy To Love shows a more vulnerable and versatile side of the artist. It’s the type of track that hits hard in the car and even harder in the feels. Whether he’s talking about love, loyalty, or late-night vibes, Ricotana lays it down with realness and rhythm.
After making noise with past releases, Ricotana returns not just with another record—but with a record that sticks. Easy To Love is emotional, relatable, and still has that bounce Florida fans crave.
From Broward blocks to national playlists, this one’s ready to move.
Tap in. Turn it up. And let it play all summer long. Because with Ricotana’s Easy To Love, it’s not just a song— It’s a whole mood.
He’s worked with legends, represents three cities, and drops lyrics rooted in intellect, faith, and fire. B.Eveready’s new project The Crab Season EP proves once again he’s one of the most respected underground emcees on the East Coast. We caught up with him to talk about his roots, his evolution, and his mission to inspire and elevate.
1. The Foundation
Q: You were born in Boston, now living in Baltimore, and rooted in Barbados. How have those three places shaped your identity and your sound?
That’s a great question to start us off! Those are special places in my life & music. That’s the soil that nurtured & threatened my talent & future. I’m a first-generation Bajan immigrant, Black man from Mattapan — 02126 specifically. I love dancehall & battle rap, soca & synth wave, and everything in between. God gave us music, it’s never done me wrong.
2. The Crab Season EP
Q: Your new project The Crab Season EP just dropped—what’s the story behind the title, and what do you want listeners to take away from it?
I started working on this project back in 2021 — in the middle of COVID. I wanted to reach out & make some joints with the dope emcees in Baltimore that I hadn’t worked with yet, but always respected & was a fan of. Gentlemen like MC Bravado, Jay Royale, Ill Conscious, John Wells & Lonnie Moore. And I would be remiss to forget the Queen that is Jai Ivy! She does her thing on “Apocalypse Now” — it’s reminiscent to me of Rihanna on “All Of The Lights”. I want listeners to take that we take our craft seriously, & we can go toe-to-toe with any area that’s been blessed with more commercial success than Baltimore (and Boston & Pittsburgh).
3. The Craft
Q: You’ve worked with legends like Talib Kweli, Cappadonna, and The Last Poets. What have you learned from those collaborations, and how have they pushed your artistry?
I learned firsthand at an early stage in the game that you will get what you put into this. We opened up for Kweli in ‘03-‘04, and I saw 500 people levitate when he did “Shock Body” after “Get By”. You could FEEL the music. So I strive to bring the passion that will create that type of experience for my audience.
4. Lyrical Standards
Q: You clearly hold yourself to a high lyrical bar. What does being an emcee mean to you in 2025, and how do you stay sharp in a world that often favors quantity over quality?
Real talk, I mostly listen to the classics. The things that inspired me 20 years ago still do today. But there are some standouts. You’ve got the standard bearers like CyHi, King Los, Joey, Ab-Soul, Ray Vaughn, Daylyt, Royce, Lupe, Mickey Factz, Skyzoo, Action, etc., and then you have folks on the come up like myself. We just stay true to what got us in position in the first place: focusing on the bars & the music.
5. Soul & Substance
Q: Your music pulls from both soul and street—Stevie Wonder to Wu-Tang. How do you balance grit and grace in your sound?
It’s what I was raised on. You don’t play the same record in the club that you play when you want to think about life. So if you’re an emcee (in the real sense of the word), you have to be able to do it all. That’s literally what makes you an emcee. You can’t master the ceremony if a DJ can put on a beat that you can’t flow over or get the crowd moving to.
6. The Faith Factor
Q: As a Christian and a graduate of Carnegie Mellon, your faith and intellect both show up in your music. How do those parts of you influence what you create and how you move?
It’s really been about my growth as a Black man in America. I’ve always been very conscious of our challenges & our perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds as Black people. So that intellect piece is really from my parents. My mother & father poured into me for years — making me do book reports in the summer, pushing me to a private high school, and always telling me that I could do anything I wanted to if I was willing to work for it & put God first. They’ve been together for 47 years, and they really set the example that I try to live up to.
And then my girlfriend at the time (who is now my wife) introduced me to the Church of Christ, where her family has worshipped for 40+ years. And it made sense to me because they had a Bible answer for any Bible question I had. We base our lives on our understanding of God’s Word, and we do our best to do what God wants us to do. So that informs my music, but I am who I am because of who I was & who God is molding me to be.
7. Legacy in the Making
Q: You’ve got years of releases behind you—from The C.P.T. Mixtape to #GrindSeason and now The Crab Season EP. What do you think has changed most about you as an artist over time?
I think my ear for beats has improved a lot. I know what I want to express emotionally & I can search my archives or reach out to one of our producers (or make it myself) to communicate that correctly. Earlier, I was more concerned about what a beat made ME feel. Now I’m more interested in what it makes YOU feel.
8. Future Vision
Q: You’ve said you’re aiming to be one of the greats, and also want to help develop the next generation of artists. What does that mission look like to you in action?
I’ve always been about community action. I do my best to keep my ear to the streets for the next spitters, and I’m just starting to get back involved with the Baltimore Peace Movement (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qClPZqc6UEc) & Beats Not Bullets (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_yqCZoTXToY). I’ve been taking care of my wife for the last 4.5 years, so I’m just getting back outside, but you will definitely see a more active B.Eveready in the next 12 months. Our record label, Checkmate Entertainment, is actively cultivating a group of producers, and then we will start scouting for singers, songwriters & emcees in Baltimore, Pittsburgh & Boston. Nobody outside of those cities cares about the artists who are striving to make an impact in the culture, and my job is to amplify those voices & provide opportunities where I can. Essentially, if we link & can do good, above-board business, you have met The Plug.
9. For the Record
Q: When someone presses play on a B.Eveready track, what do you want them to immediately recognize or feel?
This ain’t that weirdo rap you summa-summas used to, word to our brother Nipsey.
10. Closing Words
Q: What’s one message you’d give to artists trying to balance purpose, skill, and staying true in today’s rap game?
I realized that I needed to pursue music while I was listening to “Reunited” by Wu-Tang in 2000. 25 years of blood, sweat, tears, & THOUSANDS of dollars later, this is what you see. If you’re not willing to essentially do a bid for this music, get out & do something else. Because the money isn’t what it was, and there’s so much trash in the game, they take up almost all of the oxygen for the real artists. If you’re willing to grind for YEARS with no promise of anything, and you have something to say, welcome to the best & worst time of your life. Keep God first, stay out of the way, and always take your vocals from every recording session — it’ll save you a lot of heartache later.
Peace to HipHopsRevival for always rocking with me — this was from 2017 (https://hiphopsrevival.com/sponsored/b-eveready-drippin-swagu-ft-emilio-rojas/)!!! Over here, we respect the real & we get it off the #SlowGrind — word to Isaiah Thomas (#4 not #11). Thank God for life, love & all these blessings. Check out Crab Season if you want a soundtrack for your summer.
Straight out of Trenton, New Jersey, Yung Croc is carving his lane in the game. With emotion, real-life experience, and heart in every line, Croc is here to talk to the people — not just say anything to them. We got the chance to hear directly from the rising artist himself.
The Beginning
Q: For those who don’t know you yet — who is Yung Croc? Where are you from and how’d you get into music? I’m from Trenton, New Jersey. When I first got into music, it was when I would watch a close friend of mine record. He was so good, it inspired me to give it a shot.
The Sound
Q: What would you say separates your sound from other artists coming up right now? What separates my sound from others is that you can feel what I’m saying. I’m trying to talk to the people, not just say anything to them.
Defining Track
Q: Is there a specific track or project you’ve dropped that you feel really defines you as an artist? Yes, the song is called “Stick By My Side.” I put emotion in there.
Creative Process
Q: What’s your creative process like — do you freestyle, write, or go off the vibe? I like to write and go off the vibe. I’ll freestyle sometimes to have bars to write.
Inspiration
Q: Who or what inspires you most when you’re making music? Who inspires me is my lost friend Big T Block. I only wanted to go to studio sessions for the vibe and to hear him make music, but he inspired me to try.
Biggest Challenge
Q: What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome in your journey so far? My biggest challenge so far is doing this independently. I invest in me and I support myself most of the time.
What’s Next
Q: What can fans expect from you next? Any upcoming releases, visuals, or collabs? I have a few upcoming releases, and I should be working on 2 songs with an artist from Houston — D-Rawww.
Stay locked in with Yung Croc — an artist driven by emotion, legacy, and the independent hustle.
In an era of ghosting, mixed signals, and emotional gray zones, SVNDAY flips the script with his latest single, “Distance”. This isn’t just another breakup track—it’s a deep dive into the invisible space that develops when closeness fades. With haunting melodies that echo the hollowness of fading relationships and storytelling that feels ripped from real life, SVNDAY captures the collective ache of an emotionally detached generation.
Raised between Baltimore and Columbia, SC, now based in Atlanta, SVNDAY pins the universal pain of distance into a verse that’s as catchy as it is heartbreaking. He doesn’t just sing — he confesses. He doesn’t just rhyme — he reveals. In a world that often masks pain, SVNDAY bares his.
This single isn’t a cry for sympathy—it’s a sonic therapy session wrapped in trap drums and atmospheric production. And at its core, “Distance” reminds us of a truth we try to avoid: sometimes, love fades, but the memories (and emotions) never do. Don’t believe it? Press play on the emotionally exhilarating release here at Hip Hops Revival. Lastly, let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Despite being behind bars, JumpOut Baby Keke is keeping the pressure on. With his new track “Momma Cita” featuring Lil Torrey dropping on June 17, 2025, the incarcerated artist is proving that his story — and his sound — can’t be stopped.
“The name of the track is Momma Cita feat Lil Torrey. This song is passionate to me because it’s about a lifestyle I’ve been through and about others that have been through the same. If you know what a 304 is, then you know exactly what I’m talking about in this song. Fans should expect excitement, and confidence in themselves when they listen to it. It’s also a summertime vibe that’s gonna have them repeatedly bobbing their heads to the realism of my music.”
The Fire Within
When asked what drives his passion for music, especially considering the circumstances, JumpOut Baby Keke keeps it all the way real:
“I’m currently in prison for an alleged attempted murder and the odds were against me in the system for fighting the case, so I’m spending time here making myself better with my craft. Every time I put on my headphones and listen to a song, I don’t discriminate on the kind of music I’m listening to. Music gives me a positive vibe and a clear glance of my future and what I’m looking to accomplish to be successful in this industry. It helps me express myself and when I hear people singing my songs, it gives me more motivation to keep going.”
Inspiration in Isolation
Even from a cell, inspiration finds its way in.
“I’m inspired by multiple artists like Mozzy, Kendrick Lamar, Bossman Dlow, Future and Mac Dre. I stay focused by secluding and surrounding myself with nothing but music/business oriented people. I’m an Aquarius and always had a creative mindset. But a good way to stay on top is doing everything you love and taking every opportunity… I just happened to become a great artist. I’m at a part in my life where everything I do has to count, be true to my profession, and get recognized. No more air balls, all nett! Don’t forget to check out that Momma Cita! Coming to all platforms June 17, 2025. No Kap!”
Past Work and Proud Moments
Before Momma Cita, there was PhoneBuzzinLike — a pivotal moment in Keke’s career.
“PhoneBuzzinLike is one I’m really proud of. That’s the song where I started getting into writing, recording, and producing my own music. You can listen to it on SoundCloud under the name BandBoyYigg$.”
Voice From the Inside
Keke’s grind doesn’t stop — not for anything.
“I want them to understand that even in the situation that I’m in now. There ain’t nothing that’s going to stop me from dropping music for my fans and trying to make it to the top for my loved ones and also for the friends that I lost and never see again.”
Legacy in the Making
His dreams reach beyond the mic:
“My goal is to be successful with my music and launch a clothing line to represent my brand. Ultimately make a living doing what I love.”
One Last Word for the People
Before signing off, Keke left a message that resonates far beyond prison walls:
“Yeah. Don’t let nobody or no situation stop you from what you want to do period, no matter what it is. I love and appreciate all my fans, and I want y’all to be successful as well. Thank you for supporting me. #KEKETHEBEST #MOMMACITA MORE MUSIC ON THE WAY.”
Don’t miss Momma Cita feat. Lil Torrey — dropping June 17 on all platforms. This one’s not just a song — it’s a statement.
With its new Roc Nation distribution deal, Endless Dreams Music is putting its roster front and center. Leading the charge is Pretty Blackkk, the label’s original signee and longtime star. Her commanding presence and lyrical depth have made her a standout since day one, and now she takes the lead into this new chapter.
Joining her are King Asa and Charlie Jacob, two artists with distinct voices and undeniable charisma. King Asa brings energy, edge, and authenticity—a new school sound grounded in old school principles. Charlie Jacob, meanwhile, offers a fresh lyrical perspective that blends storytelling with street-savvy substance.
Together, these three artists represent the future of Endless Dreams: fearless, multifaceted, and fiercely original. With the backing of Roc Nation and the guidance of a label that truly believes in them, their potential is limitless. The Dream Team has officially arrived. Keep locked at Hip Hops Revival for all things Endless Dreams Music and more!
CONNECT WITH ENDLESS DREAMS MUSIC ON SOCIAL MEDIA: INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE
Camo K is an artist who chooses to do things differently. Born in Albany, New York, and now living in Grand Rapids, Michigan, his journey into music started unexpectedly with a freestyle challenge among friends. Since that moment, he’s stayed focused on creating music without profanity.
His goal is simple: to prove you don’t have to act tough or play the “gangsta” role to be cool. Camo K wants to make music that’s real, positive, and enjoyable for people from all walks of life.
In this Hip Hop’s Revival interview, he talks about his upbringing, his unique approach to music, and what’s next in his journey.
Origin Story
Q: You were born in Albany but now live in Grand Rapids. How did those two cities shape your outlook—and your approach to music?
A:Growing up in Albany, New York, I had to grow up fast. My mom worked a 9-to-5 for the state, so I was often on my own. I saw things at a young age that many people never experience in their lifetime. Albany taught me how to navigate life—how to trust, how to protect myself, how to carry myself. It gave me street smarts and introduced me to music early on. My mom played classics like Aretha Franklin and Smokey Robinson, while my older brothers and cousins were blasting DJ Red Alert and DJ Clue mixtapes.
At 13, we moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan, because my mom wanted a better environment for us. That was a culture shock I’d never seen so much grass in my life. It opened my mind and helped me see life from a new perspective. Albany raised me, but Grand Rapids molded me.
Unexpected Beginnings
Q: Your music journey started with a freestyle challenge. What happened that day, and what made you say, “This is what I want to do”?
A:I was just hanging with some old friends, being honest—smoking a blunt. My friend loved to beatbox, and I decided to freestyle. To my surprise, it was actually good. My friends were shocked too. I had always thought of lyrics in my head but never had the confidence to say them out loud until that moment. That day changed everything for me.
Clean, Real, and Different
Q: You’ve made it a point to avoid profanity and the usual “gangsta” image. What inspired that decision, and how has it shaped your identity as an artist?
A:Too many people try to portray the “gangsta” image, but most of them aren’t living that life. I’ve been around real ones, but I never claimed to be one. I want my music to be accessible to everyone—from kids to grandparents. Even if someone doesn’t like my music, I want them to respect it.
Also, avoiding profanity makes things easier down the line. I don’t have to worry about radio edits or getting bleeped on TV. Artists who rely on explicit content often box themselves in. I want my art to open doors, not close them.
Staying True
Q: In a genre where toughness often gets the spotlight, how do you stay confident and authentic while going against the grain?
A:That’s a great question, it actually makes me laugh. Some rappers talk like they’re trapping, but they’re living in mansions. It doesn’t add up. For me, this isn’t an act. It’s in me, not on me. I’ve never followed trends. I like staying in my own lane there’s less traffic there.
Creative Process
Q: What does your creative process look like? Are there certain themes or feelings you aim to capture when writing?
A:First, I’ll smoke to clear my mind. Then I play the beat on repeat ,what I call “taking it for a test drive.” I listen to it hundreds of times before I write anything. I never settle for my first or second idea. I aim to capture all kinds of emotions. I can usually tell within 30 seconds if a beat speaks to me.
The Mission
Q: You said your goal is to make music that’s real, positive, and enjoyable for everyone. What do you hope listeners feel when they hear a Camo K track?
A:I hope they feel seen. Whether it’s stress, pain, joy, celebration, or healing I want my music to reflect real emotions. I want people to feel like I’m telling their story, not just mine. My goal is for people to relate, connect, and grow with my music.
Current Work
Q: What are you working on now? Any recent releases or upcoming projects fans should tap into?
A:I’ve got a 4-track EP called Built From Pain dropping June 13, 2025. It’s packed with raw emotion and energy. Right after that, I’m releasing another 4-track EP, Anywhere But Here, on July 18, 2025. It explores different styles and sounds, pushing my creative boundaries. I’m also working on two features I’m excited about—can’t reveal the names just yet.
Obstacles & Growth
Q: Have you faced challenges trying to do things differently in the rap game? How do you push through those moments?
A:Absolutely. I’ve faced rejection from labels, fake friends, and constant self-doubt. I’ve also been confronting my own mental health, which I’m finally taking seriously. To any other Black men out there please don’t be afraid to seek help. Therapy and healing are not weaknesses; they’re steps to becoming your best self.
I stay focused by staying true to myself and distancing from distractions and people who don’t share my vision.
Vision & Legacy
Q: Where do you want to be in five years, musically and personally? What’s the legacy you want Camo K to leave behind?
A:Five years from now, I want to be well-established in music, but I see music as just the foundation. I want to build connections and use my platform to support causes I care about especially helping kids and animals.
I want my legacy to be about authenticity. In a world where everyone’s trying to fit in, I want to be remembered for standing out and staying true to who I am.
Message to the Youth
Q: For young people watching who feel like they have to act tough or follow trends to get attention—what would you tell them?
A:Be yourself. If you’re naturally tough, cool. But if you’re just putting on an act to impress others, that’ll only take you so far. Be real. Talk less, listen more. Don’t let life control you take control of it. Your authenticity is your power.
Q: You’ve chosen to remain unseen in an era where visibility is everything. What inspired you to create from the shadows instead of the spotlight?
Mystic 2lit: Ima night crawler. It just kinda happened that way. No one seen God but he lit ain’t it. I want the focus to be on the music and my story. A deeper connection to vibes… like sex, orgasms.
The Name
Q: “Mystic 2lit” is both spiritual and fiery. What does your name mean to you, and how does it reflect your energy as an artist?
Mystic 2lit: Mystic describes my dark sexual energy. The unknown. The unseen. The mystery. The mystique. I’m lit by nature became a shadow out the dark world. My avatars represent me the best way possible with horn-like open legs symbol on my head, I birthed Sex Trap Music. Check out the cover art of Cooking Coochie Chowder;) My image is often mistaken as devilish… I’m a Mystic. A sexual creature.
Identity in Silence
Q: In never showing your face, you force the world to listen more closely. What do you hope people hear when they can’t see you?
Mystic 2lit: I want them to hear me. My sound. The magical energy created between a beat and a mystic. Whether its sexual, trapping, inspiring, you gonna feel me.
Creative Realm
Q: Can you describe your creative process? Where do your ideas come from—dreams, memories, spirits?
Mystic 2lit: A little bit of all that. I love music. I love beats. Alotta times its the beat talking to me. I’m just talking back. Shout to all beat makers I work with.
Hidden Inspirations
Q: Who or what inspires your sound, even if they’ve never seen your face?
Mystic 2lit: Its almost supernatural how that thang just create itself when the beat lit. My face is my music. You seen me. Its Mystic.
Music as Magic
Q: Your music feels like a spell—emotive, atmospheric, otherworldly. Do you see your songs as a form of ritual or expression beyond entertainment?
Mystic 2lit: Both. A different point of view from a female that’s hard. I’m beyond entertainment… I’m a deep connection to the mind and body on sound waves. I be having fun but wana have some purpose too. On my Sex Trap Music catalogs, you gone hear some of everything, trap, soul, rnb, alternative, you know.
Protecting the Spirit
Q: In a world that demands constant exposure, how do you protect your peace while still expressing so much?
Mystic 2lit: My expression is in my music. My art. My mind. I find peace in true peace. Stay away from bs and tainted energies. I find solace in my creative space. Do my thang on the daily and rap on the journey.
The Message
Q: If you could whisper one message to the world and vanish into smoke—what would it be?
Mystic 2lit: Hold up ima circle back on that
What’s Next
Q: What should your listeners expect next from Mystic 2lit? More music, visual art, a deeper dive into the unknown?
Mystic 2lit: All of the above really
Final Portal
Q: You exist in the space between presence and absence. How would you describe the experience of being Mystic 2lit?
Mystic 2lit: Each piece of me is in my tapes, Sex Trap Music. My musical presence doesn’t allow absence to be felt. Vibes must linger. Twang.
