NYCE PICK: Rocky Banks – “Parkin Lot Pimpin” [WATCH]

Houston has a lot of young rappers with plenty of star potential. Rocky Banks falls in that category and has shown it with a handful of recently-released bangers. His most recent “Parkin Lot Pimpin” is an undeniable hit and he accompanies with a solid video that pays homage to H-Tine’s late producer and founder of the Chopped & Screwed movement, DJ Screw.

Watch and listen below.

TWITTER: @IAMBNYCE
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New Music: Rocky Banks – “Lessons” [LISTEN]

My boy Rocky Banks has been grinding all year and it’s paying off with the release of some dope chunes. Focused on ending the year on a solid note, Rock drops his new Gooney Tunes-produced single, “Lessons.” On the vibey track he lays it all on the line and talks about the lessons he’s learned, while letting it be known he isn’t tripping on the haters.

Listen below.

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Rocky Banks Discusses His ‘Big Little Brother’ Album & More W/ B-Nyce [WATCH]

I went to go see the homie Rocky Banks’ first headlining show out in his hometown of Houston, Texas, and I must it was mighty lit. The crowd was going wild and signing along word-for-word and it really showed he’s ready for the next level.

While I was there I sat down with him and talked about his ‘Big Little Brother’ album which is out now on all platforms. We also dissected some singles off the project and the meaning behind them, as well as his musical inspiration and who he wants to work with.

Watch the full interview below.

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New Video: Rocky Banks – “Dopeman” [WATCH]

The H-Tine homie Rocky Banks drops the visuals for his NWA-inspired “Dopeman” single off his recently-released ‘Big Little Brother’ album. Drawing further inspiration for the visuals from Hype Williams and his directed urban Nas and DMX-starring classic “Belly.”

STREAM ‘BIG LITTLE BROTHER’ HERE

Watch the dope video below.

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New Video: Rocky Banks – “Tony Hawk” [WATCH]

Talented Houston rapper, Rocky Banks has been on a tear and doesn’t appear to be stopping anytime soon. With his ‘Big Little Brother’ album coming next month, Banks unleashes his newest Mufasa Enzor-produced single “Tony Hawk,” along with the music video.

The eye-catching clip shows Rocky dancing around yellow smoke and playing the part of an 80’s fitness teacher, that is extra handsy with the ladies. Another scene shows Banko viciously assaulting “President” Donald Trump with a flurry of punches.

“Tony Hawk” will land on Rocky’s ‘Big Little Brother’ set to be released Friday, February 2nd.

Watch below.

TWITTER: @IAMBNYCE
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New Video: Rocky Banks – “Through The Phone” [WATCH]

Houston rapper Rocky Banks starts the rollout for his forthcoming ‘Big Little Brother’ album by dropping the visuals for “Through the Phone.” The thumping track preaches how everybody thinks they’re popping on social media, but really not and the video further captures that.

‘Big Little Brother’ is slated for release next month.

Watch below.

@IAMBNYCE

18 Artists To Watch In 2018 [PEEP]

Every year there are artists that emerge and turn themselves into household names. Last year we saw artists like SZA, Cardi B, Playboi Carti, Khalid, 6lack, and others blow up right in front of our faces. I’ve compiled a list of 18 artists that are destined to blow up in 2018.

This list is in no particular so please hold your slander.

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MOZZY

Sacramento’s Mozzy has been bubbling for a while now and on the cusp of taking his career to the next level. Last year he released his ‘1 Up Top Ahk’ album, in which he showed exactly what he’s made of. His lyrical abilities are nearly impeccable and his delivery is up there with some of the hottest spitters in the game. Mozzy also isn’t afraid to use his platform to address social issues and the fact that he speaks his mind makes him even tougher.

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PHORA

Being from Anaheim, Phora has always had a strong following in Southern California. Last year he really took off with his debut album ‘Yours Truly Forever’, and in doing so gained a national cult-like following. After releasing his debut album, Phora showed exactly how big his following is by selling $2.2M in merch sales in only 24-hours! I see him surpassing the success 2017 brought him and it will start on G-Eazy’s “The Beautiful & Damned Tour,” which he will be an undercard for.

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MAXO KREAM

Houston rapper Maxo Kream began to gain recognition with co-signs from A$AP Mob members a few years ago. That really gained him public attention, which he since has fully taken advantage of. He’s already worked with the likes of A$AP Rocky, Joey Bada$$, Playboi Carti, amongst others. Maxo has that gangsta rap persona and his street cred adds substance to all his bars. Last Friday he released his debut album, ‘Punken’, which is filled with certified bangers.

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REXX LIFE RAJ

2017 was a big year for Rexx Life Raj, as he accomplished so much in so little time. I remember linking up with him at SXSW in March and by November he had hopped on songs with G-Eazy, Russ, P-Lo, and the legendary Goapele. Just about every song he dropped last year was absolutely fire and warranted a listen. With a striking bars and a quick melodic flowing style, this guy is destined for greatness.

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G-HERBO

I caught up with G-Herbo a few weeks ago at Rolling Loud SoCal and we talked about his plans for 2018. He told me there’s about three projects he’s ready to release and it will start with his collaborative ‘Swervo’ project with Southside. Herbo was a problem last year and he will only continue to climb to the top with his lyrical prowess.

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88GLAM

Toronto’s 88Glam is looking to continue the success other artists from the 6ix like Drake, The Weeknd, Belly, Tory Lanez, Nav, and more have had. In 2017 they went on a viral tear with singles like “Bali” featuring Nav, “12,” and “Big Tymers.” They’ve already secured co-signs from the XO camp and Riccardo Tisci, so the stamp is there. If they keep their pedal on the gas, there’s no telling how far they’ll get.

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GASHI

New York rapper Gashi scratched the surface of success last year with his “No No No” and “Turn Me Down” singles. Having a deal with Jay Z’s Roc Nation in place will definitely help  pair him with the right producers and collaborators. His flow is already next level and with the anticipation of his debut album coming in 2018, you will see him level up.

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SYLVAN LACUE

Miami’s Sylvan LaCue is long overdue on the blow up front. He consistently makes music that is infectious, soothing and will undoubtedly touch your soul. His way of story-telling is reminiscent of Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, m.A.A.d city’ album and comes with a mystique that makes you want more. With a balance of smooth vocals and formidable cadence, he shows he’s ready for the next level. His recently-released ‘Apologies In Advance’ album is drawing a lot of attention and rightfully so.

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BRENT FAIYAZ

GoldLink had one of the hottest songs of 2017 in “Crew.” My personal favorite part of the song was the catchy chorus, which was melodically delivered by Brent Faiyaz, who often goes overlooked on the track and in the industry. That chorus earned him a GRAMMY nomination and I’m sure he will use that as motivation to kill sh*t in 2018. The Baltimore, Maryland product has a style that is reminiscent of the 90’s golden era of R&B.

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CALEBORATE

I’ve been following Bay Area rapper Caleborate for a cool minute now. In 2016 he showed his love for hip-hop with his ‘1993’ tape and last year he released his relatable album, ‘Real Person’. He really has a superlative talent and his powerful lyrics will certainly play a major role in breaking him into the mainstream. With a hunger for more and a relentless approach, I see him going far this year.

 

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G PERICO

Traditional West Coast gangsta rap has really disappeared in this era of mumble rap. If that is the style of hip-hop you yearn for, you’re guaranteed to vibe with LA rapper, G Perico. G takes a story-telling approach with swift style of rapping. Watch him rise this year.

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ROCKY BANKS

Houston rapper Rocky Banks is probably the most slept on artist in his region, if not the entire continent. His ability to blatantly express his emotions on a track is really intriguing and draws you in. Last year he dropped his ‘Trust In Banko’ album, which is definitely a must listen, that breezes from front-to-back. He’s already drawn comparisons to Big K.R.I.T. and an early version of Kendrick Lamar. Next month he will release his forthcoming ‘Big Little Brother’ album, and it will be a problem (TRUST ME I’VE HEARD IT). This guy is about to blow up. DON’T SLEEP.

 

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DICE SOHO

Being the first artist signed to Mike Dean’s M.W.A. label, Dice Soho already has an upper hand. Upon talking to Mike Dean I quickly found that Dice’s hardwork and dedication, coupled with his undeniable talent is a reason he will reach stardom. This year he will release his ‘You Could Have’ EP, which promises to include a plethora of bangers. His newest single “Giraffe” has been going off in clubs and should be followed with more heat.

 

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COZZ

Dreamville signee Cozz is a crazy lyricist, who often times goes unnoticed, unless he’s on a track with Cole or Bas. If you pay attention you will quickly learn that this guy can spit with the best of them and doesn’t need any features to create fire sounds. For Cozz the talent is there, we just need a full-length album to solidify it and it appears we will get it this year.

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03 GREEDO

Since coming into the music scene, 03 Greedo has been surrounded with buzz. He is the kind of artist that can breakout with an infectious banger at any given moment and that makes him a special talent. The Watts native has an uncanny, unorthodox style, which draws people in. The “living legend” should definitely be around for years to come and this year I expect him to reach the kind of stardom previous LA acts like YG, Ty Dolla $ign, and others have. Keep an eye on him.

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SIR

Inglewood’s SiR was able to secure a deal with TDE in early 2017, but was quiet for most of the year. His recent “Something Foreign” single with ScHoolboy Q has been opening a lot of eyes, as more folks are getting hip to SiR. Being on the TDE roster should pair him with the entire talented powerhouse roster, and create some solid music. That along with the fact that SiR has an utterly unique talent should be enough to show that he is poised to rise in the industry. His debut album will arrive in February. Stay tuned.

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MICHAEL MILLIONS

Virginia has nurtured several spitters like Pusha T, Malice, and Nickelous F to name a few. Next up and ready to carry the torch is Michael Millions. As of late he’s been bubbling with his recent ‘Hard To Be King’ project, which showcases his lyrical abilities and there is surely more where that came from.

 

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ZOLO

If you’re looking for a different sounding R&B act that is experimental and stands out from the rest, Toronto’s Zolo is the talent you’re looking for. His ability to bless a track with a unique cadence should put him on a fast track to stardom.

HONORABLE MENTION:

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DARNELL WILLIAMS

Going from a film director to a rapper probably isn’t the easiest thing to do. Detroit’s Darnell Williams is making it look easy by using his film skills to direct his own videos like in the case of his gritty “Coney Island” visuals. The “Coney Island” single is only a sample size of Darnell’s potential. Watch him match that single and stay consistent throughout the year.

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Nyce Pick: Rocky Banks – “Yellow Hearts, Pt. 2 (I Know)” [LISTEN]

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Houston rapper Rocky Banks is getting ready to release his next album, which remains untitled. The album will follow his slept-on ‘Trust In Banko’ album, which remains his strongest body of work to date. To hype the upcoming album, Banko revisits his ‘Trust In Banko’ single, “Yellow Hearts” with a part 2 that is produced by Daud Leon and zJethro.

Listen below.

@IAMBNYCE

New Video: Rocky Banks – “Don’t Talk Nice To Me Now” [WATCH]

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LA Leakers Indie Pick of the Week alumnist, Rocky Banks flosses out in his new video for “Don’t Talk Nice To Me Now.” The braggadocio cut is off Rocky’s slept-on, ‘Trust In Banko’ project, which you should definitely slap from beginning to end if you haven’t already.

Watch the visuals for “DTNTMN” below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbyLy868_YQ&feature=youtu.be&a=

@IAMBNYCE

New Leak: Rocky Banks – “Mini Me” & “Through The Phone” [PREMIERE]

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Houston rapper Rocky Banks sent me two fire ass songs called “Mini Me” and “Through the Phone.” After pressing play on the tracks, I felt an obligation to drop them. His last project ‘Trust In Banko’ continues to be slept on, but Rock should wake them up with this one-two punch.

On the first single “Mini Me” produced by Louie JI and Darius 1500, the Indie Pick of the Week alumnist sons all his enemies that envy him in a Austin Powers fashion. Rocky delivers scathing lyrics over the thumping bass-heavy instrumental, that is guaranteed to make you bop your head. Listen below.

The second single “Through the Phone” produced by Daud Leon, has Rocky getting his mojo back, while letting go of distractions and regaining his focus. Rocky says “Through the Phone” goes through the motions of a point in time where he felt the need to work harder after getting a bit complacent.

“I didn’t have my blinders on in the race and started slowing down. Paying attention to a bunch of false advertisement and falling for the propaganda. This was me doing a self check and pretty much laying it out for the listener,” he said.

Listen below.

@IAMBNYCE

New Video: Rocky Banks – “Skrt Off/New New” Feat. Mufasa Enzor [WATCH]

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With yellow smoke lingering in the air, Houston rapper, Rocky Banks skrts off in a new, new whip for the “Skrt Off/New New”  video directed by PSDNYM.

The Mufasa Enzor-produced single is off the rapper’s recently-released, ‘Trust In Banko’ project. The song talks about the fulfilling lifestyle Rocky lives after overcoming a bad drug addiction. The joy displayed in the video is really motivating for anyone who is fighting any kind of addiction.

Skrt off with Rocky in his new, new video by pressing play below.

Next up for Rocky is SXSW in Austin, Texas, where the rapper will be performing at two showcases. Get more information HERE.

@IAMBNYCE

17 Artists To Watch At SXSW 2017 [PEEP]

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The 2017 edition of  the South by South West, music conference in Austin, Texas kicked off over the weekend. Although there was some performances, the real action doesn’t begin until this week with several music showcases from Def Jam, Dreamville, HotNewHipHop, The Source Magazine, Atlantic Records, TIDAL, and others.

From signed musicians to up-and-coming independent artists, I’ve compiled 17 artists you absolutely should NOT miss if you are attending the annual music conference. Check it out below.

RICK ROSS

With his 9th studio album, ‘Rather You Than Me’ dropping this Friday, you know Rick Ross is going to light up the VIBE Magazine showcase with new songs and special guests. The performance will take place March, 16th at The Mazda Studio from 12:35 am to 1:05 am.

More Info

DREAMVILLE

One of the most successful teams in the industry, Dreamville, will have their own showcase at Old School on March, 16th, beginning at 8:30 pm. Catch performances from the team’s own: Bas, Cozz, Ari Lennox, Omen, J.I.D, Lute, Ron Gilmore, and a set from DJ Nitrane.

More Info

2 CHAINZ

A staple in hip-hop, 2 Chainz, has an extensive catalog that is sure to turn a party up. The Atlanta rapper has been one of the most consistent artists of this era. You could see Chainz at EMO’s on March 16th at 10:45 pm.

More Info

MIKE WILL MADE-IT

Mike WiLL has been in the studio heavy working on his forthcoming project, ‘Ransom 2’. The mega-producer, has produced for the biggest names ranging from Rihanna to Drake. With two showcases scheduled, the producer may just drop some new shit off the upcoming ‘Ransom 2’.

More Info

METRO BOOMIN’

Responsible for many of the hits topping the charts, Metro Boomin’ is an absolute can NOT miss. Metro will be doing a 1-hour set at Antone’s on Friday, March 17th. You know he’s guaranteed to bring special guests out.

More Info

DJ ESCO

Future’s sidekick, DJ Esco, has had been very influential figure in music. The electrifying DJ always keeps the crowd going as he plays different trap sounds, while rocking the audience. Find Esco at Empire Garage March 15th and Mohawk Outdoor on March 18th.

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A$AP FERG

The Trap Lord had a very successful run through last year’s SXSW showcases. This year he’s minimized his work load to one show, but it is sure to be worth it. Ferg will be at 800 Congress March, 15th at 1am.

More Info

TY DOLLA $IGN

Get ready to get ratchet with Ty Dolla $ign. The LA superstar will perform as part of Atlantic Records showcase with TIDAL at Stubb’s on Saturday, March 18th. Ty will go on at 11:10 pm.

More Info

DAVE EAST

Dave East is one of the most lyrical new artists out. The New York-product displayed his deadly lyrics on his L.A. Leakers freestyle, which you can watch HERE. East will also perform at Stubb’s March 16th.

More Info

KENT JONES

DJ Khaled’s artist, Kent Jones, broke out last year with the single, “Don’t Mind.” Kent dropped a new single over the weekend. Catch the Miami-representative performing at Empire Garage on Thursday, March 16th at 10:30 pn.

More Info

MAXO KREAM

Maxo Kream has a nice blend of sounds that is influenced by the south. The Houston-born rapper will close things out at the Palm Door on Sixth Patio on March, 16th at  1:30 am.

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KAP G

Atlanta has one of the most influential sounds in the industry. Atlanta rapper Kap G is keeping the scene alive with his trappy sound. Since his single, “Girlfriend,” the Mexican-American rapper has been on the up-and-up. See Kap G at the Atlantic Records, “Make Trap Great Again” showcase.

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G. PERICO

Los Angeles rapper, G. Perico, has stayed true to the traditional West Coast sound. If you haven’t yet, listen to his recently-released ‘Shit Don’t Stop’ project. G will perform at the 512 Rooftop on March 16th at 12:30 am.

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DON MYKEL

Uptown, New York’s Don Mykel has been bodying freestyle after freestyle and consistently putting out quality music. Don will show off his skills at two Source Magazine showcases, being “Respect the Plug” on March 15th and “Legally Loud 4” on March 16th.

ZOEY DOLLAZ

FreeBandz rapper, Zoey Dollaz, is one of the nicest new rapper out of Florida. His new single “YAYAYA” featuring Future and Koly P is a party-starter. Catch Zoey performing at The Source Magazine showcases, “Respect the Plug” on March 15th and “Legally Loud 4” on March 16th.

ROCKY BANKS

One of the hungriest up-and-coming rappers, Rocky Banks, was one of my “Indie Picks of the Week” last year and has really continued to develop. His recent project, ‘Trust In Banko’ proves he will be a mainstay in hip-hop for years to come. Rocky will do two showcases. See Rocky at The Palm Door on Sixth for the “Welcome to tha South” showcase on March 15th and March 16th at the “Fresh Picks” showcase at Club 512 Rooftop.

More Info

SAINT JHN

Brooklyn’s SAINt JHN, is an emerging rapper/singer who has a different sound than other New York artists. After going on tour with Post Malone last year, SAINt is destined to show the world he’s a force to be reckoned with. See SAINt’s melodic performance Saturday, March 18th at Empire Control Room.

More Info

@IAMBNYCE

 

 

New Music: Rocky Banks – ‘Trust In Banko’ [LISTEN]

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Maturity is one of the major keys to success in an artist’s development. Houston rapper and L.A. Leakers “Indie Pick of the Week” alumni, Rocky Banks, has definitely matured as a person and as an artist on his new project ‘Trust In Banko’.

The maturity and change began to become evident in his 2016 mixtape, ‘In Other News I Don’t Do Drugs Anymore’, where Rocky vowed to make major changes in his life like kicking drug habits to the curb and focusing on music.

“I’ve grown from the last project,” he humbly said. “I’m just trying to be a better person, I wanna be a better person and artist than I was last year.”

‘Trust In Banko’ highlights that change with “big boy” bars where Rocky explicitly tells anecdotes about different experiences in his life and being in the music industry.

“When I say big boy bars I mean I’m having bigger conversations now and rapping about more important things,” he shared.

The project boasts a total of 14-songs, that sound like a younger version of Kendrick Lamar mixed with Big Sean and sprinkled with Chance The Rapper’s soulfulness.

The EP was primarily produced by longtime contributor, Mufasa Ensor, who Rocky credits for creating his current sound and musical vibe.

“Mufasa touched every single track on there,” he said. “Me and him created this sound together and I haven’t felt a need to make any changes because if it ain’t broke you ain’t gotta fix it.”

The sound will only continue to improve and get better for Rocky, who seems to be in the studio creating everyday. Someone should include this man in the conversation for XXL’s Freshman list.

“This is me graduating from all the hard taught lessons in my life,” he said. “I’m independent, I’m the leader of the Yellow Hearts collective and I’m going to continue to get better.”

Stream ‘Trust In Banko’ below via SoundCloud.

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@IAMBNYCE