Self Explanatory Rap Lyrics On Genius

Jae and Trey Richards of 4YE Media—better known as ‘4 Yall Entertainment’—are, in my humble opinion, the absolute funniest duo on YouTube. The Brampton, Ontario-born brothers truly believe in quality over quantity, which thoroughly explains their “lack” of skit releases on a back-to-back basis. They’re consistently going above and beyond to bruise the funny bone of fans (well over 612K on the popular video platform) so time is certainly necessary to strengthen their comedic blows.

One of the funnymen’s latest clips, titled “Self Explanatory Rap Lyrics On Genius” is a satire that effortlessly displays their knack for turning real life happenings into gut-busting events. The clip is a Genius parody, which features fictional down south rappers, Scuba Da Surfa and Sneaky Sammy, explaining their mind-blowing lyrics of their single, “Gettin’ Cash Everyday.”

Check out the hilariousness below and be on the lookout for the bros’ new skit that’ll be dropping shortly!

6lack's East Atlanta Love Letter

Staying true to his elusive nature, 6lack (damn, writing that name is equally hard as saying it) fled the scene after releasing his successful 2016 debut album, Free 6lack, to go on a seemingly never ending tour run, which left devout listeners distraught from the lack of new tunes. This year, the multitalented crooner has returned, not only with a clean cut (in the words of The Joe Budden Podcast crew, “he got a mean rebrand”), but a long awaited sonic body of work!

Coined, East Atlanta Love Letter, the rising hyphenate’s sophomore effort is filled with heartfelt tracks dedicated to his hometown patnas (use the urban dictionary for the meaning), friends, current lover, and of course exes. My favorite joint from the project is a song that was released just a few hours before it actually dropped called, “Pretty Little Fears,” featuring the incomparable J. Cole.

Man, 6lack and Cole both blacked on the smooth tune with their potent pen. Y’all might have to replay the song a couple times just to catch a few double entendres! Check it out below:

Yezzzir

I’m not one to hold on to the past, but gotdamn it’s difficult not to reminisce about the golden era of iconic streetwear brands, BAPE and Billionaire Boys Club/ Ice Cream. That particular period of time truly influenced me to become the man I am today. (Heck, I was blessed enough to work at BAPE NYC.) From NIGO’s lustrous kicks to Pharrell’s unorthodox, skateboard duder swag, the iconic style icons boosted my confidence to live my life unfiltered. Palm Angels’ latest collaboration brought the nostalgia right back!

You guessed it! The Los-Angeles based, skate culture influenced brand tagged team with Billionaire Boys Club to conjure up a kickflipping new varsity. Featuring an OG Ice Cream logo filled with Swarovski crystals, the letterman jacket is constructed from polyester and nylon. “Palm Angels” is written diagonally across the jacket’s chest, while pink and green stripped detailing can be found on the sleeves, collar and hem.

Unfortunately, there is no information on the piece’s official release date. I guess we’ll have to patiently wait in line like the true OG hypebeasts that we are (yeah, I’m excluding all you new n*ggaz…just kidding).

Kareem's Pick: Marco McKinnis

Marco McKinnis is on a major mission to bring back R&B at its most sensual state.  The soul singer burst on the scene last month with the release of his Underground EP.  Its very first song, titled "Still Waters," is a crystal clear display of the Virginia native's vulnerability, where he is requesting permission to properly care for his significant other. 

The reverb on the background vocals takes the tune to ethereal heights!  Check it out for yourself below:

Written by Kareem Hilaire

Vogue x Air Jordan 3 AWOK

Right on the heels of her Air Jordan 1 Zip High AWOK debut earlier this summer, Vogue's editor in chief Anna Wintour is running it back with the Jordan Brand to launch yet another stylish, high-flying sneaker for the ladies.

Utilizing the classic Air Jordan 3 silhouette, the Vogue x Air Jordan 3 AWOK is really an aesthetic piece inspired by the polarising fashion figure's affinity for tweed suits and big ol' designer shades.  The shoe's upper consists of a shimmering tweed, while its heel display Anna's signature, which signifies her ultimate approval--"AWOK" is actually an acronym for Anna Wintour Ok.  Furthermore, Wintour's second collaboration with Jumpman is equipped with a hangtag that reads, "Edited By Vogue."  Talk about a subtle flex, eh?

The red and black versions of the Vogue x Air Jordan 3 AWOK are expected to drop sometime next week (on the sixth, I believe).  'Tis the season to be boo'd up so fellas cop this joint for the shorty you really want to canoodle with.

Burberry's New Logo

I still remember the day seeing Ja Rule rocking the Burberry top with the matching bucket hat in the music video for his iconic single "Always On Time," featuring Ashanti.  It was the very first time I've been exposed to the brand, and I must admit, I wanted to get my hands on a piece, badly.  Who knew plaid could be so cool?  17 years has passed since the British luxury house's legendary cameo, and with time comes major change.  Recently, Burberry has ditched the classic checked pattern for a new logo and monogram ahead of its collection showing next month during London Fashion Week.

The historic maneuver was spearheaded by none other than Burberry's newly appointed Creative Director Riccardo Tisci.  Co-designed by Peter Saville--who is also responsible for conjuring up Calvin Klein's revamped emblem--the logo features the words "Burberry" with "London England" written underneath in an all caps, bold sans-serif text.  The British heritage brand's latest monogram, named after founder Thomas Burberry, is an interwoven 'TB' pattern in a red, honey-beige and white colorway.

What do you think of the brand's new look?  Do you want that old thing (logo) back? *JAY-Z voice*

Seven Is The Magic Number

As part of its Fall/Winter 2018 collection, Balenciaga is turning up the heat (literally) by releasing a coat with not one, not two, but a whopping seven layers for your ultimate cozy needs.

This is the type of parka that'll make you feel like Kanye West after he's been asked a demeaning question by the paparazzi about his possible venture into the fashion industry: "Do you see this coat?!  Come on, man."  Fortunately, being a style icon isn't a requirement to rock this jacket, but you better be sure to have a sufficient amount of funds in your bank account (or mattress, for the trappers reading this) to cop.  Valued at $9,000 USD, the luxury fashion house's prized outerwear piece consists of different garments, ranging from plaid shirts all the way down to fleece jackets.

Interested in upgrading your skier aesthetics this winter? Pre-order this item here.

In other news, my good friend Elisabeth Hadida is gearing up to leave Balenciaga after working there for almost a decade!  Revisit my Original Story on her by clicking the link: Elisabeth Hadida.

Tribe (Music Video)

"Is J. Cole Haitian?"  That's exactly what I searched on Google abruptly after viewing Bas' music video for his latest single "Tribe," featuring the Dreamville general.

Shot in Florida's Little Haiti, the Andrew Nisinson-directed clip finds the two rap pals reppin' my home country like no other as they're having a blast with the neighborhood's lively locals.  Unfortunately, Jermaine and Bas aren't fellow Haitians, but I'm extremely happy to see how much the two are embracing the culture.  Hey, after all, we're all one "tribe" anyway.

The vibrant track is from the 31-year-old Queens lyricist's album Milky Way, which dropped today!  Before you go and cop that, check out his latest vid below:

Kareem's Pick: Santigold

Santigold is far from underground but I felt this song, and her entire discography in general, deserves to be heard more.

The multi-talented songstress is one of the first black faces I personally saw in a genre other than R&B and Hip-Hop.  I am truly inspired by her authenticity in a musical space where African-Americans are rarely in.  Recently, Santi released her Dancehall mixtape, I Don't Want: The Gold Fire Sessions.  My favorite track from the project, "Run The Road," shares her honest opinions of being in the music industry.

Listen to the jam below:

Written by Kareem Hilaire

Nav and Trav Are Champions

As soon as I finished writing my previous post (see below), I gave Travis Scott's latest album Astroworld a proper spin, and I must say, it's truly one of the best projects released so far in 2018.  Kylie Jenner's baby daddy's winning streak continues as he is featured on the new scorching single from NAV.

Rightfully titled "Champion," the celebratory chune is from the XO rapper/producer's debut album Reckless. Its visual, directed by fellow XO member Amir "Cash" Esmailian, finds the two multitalented acts living splendidly in Hawaii with their all star crew.

Check out the clip below:

Stop Trying To Be God

Travis Scott wasted no time to unleash the cinematic clip for his Astroworld cut "Stop Trying To Be God."  Truth be told, I haven't heard the Houston emcee's latest offering yet, but from the sound of the aforementioned song, it seems promising.

As soon as my ears picked up on Cudi's heavenly hums, I knew this particular track would be awesome.  Also featuring James Blake, Earth, Wind & Fire's Philip Bailey and the legendary Stevie Wonder on harmonica, the mellow tune is all about Scott's budding god complex. 

Directed by Dave Meyers, the song's accompanying visual showcases a plethora of biblical imagery.  Check out the madness below:

It Is What It Is

The homie Diggy has just unleashed his first official single in a whopping six years!  A few articles ago, I mentioned that the multitalented 23-year-old rapper was gearing up to deliver some brand new sounds and he absolutely stayed true to his words.

Titled "It Is What It Is," (I bet you said that in your Drake voice), the uplifting track is minimalistic perfection featuring only a choir and violins.  When a lyricist is spitting fiery bars with a positive message an elaborate beat is optional.

Check out the tune's captivating visual below:

Got Friends

"All of my b*tches got friends!"  Fellas, you already know our hearts rejoice whenever we hear those words come out of a beautiful woman's mouth!  Well, Goldlink and R&B megastar Miguel made a song out of that statement to commemorate all of the baddies of the world and their fine ass cliques.

Aptly titled "Got Friends," the feel-good single is the very first track from the DMV spitter since he released his debut album At What Cost in 2017.  No one knows if this song is spearheading a new project campaign for Goldlink but it sure bangs.  The collaborative tune dropped right before the summer started, yet is still potent as we're slowly moving into the cool weather.  Just goes to show that good music is timeless.

Check out the scorcher below:

Get In Line (BAPE Edition)

Last Saturday, eager fans, parents and resellers alike stood up for hours on SoHo's Green street to get their beastly hands on the new items from BAPE's latest collaboration with adidas originals.  The homie Racks Hogan was in attendance with Complex to document the madness that ensued.

Pardon my bluntness, but I'm surprised BAPE still has crazy lines!  I'm not going to lie, though, the pieces from this particular release are fire.  Thank goodness I don't have to deal with the commotion anymore--don't get me wrong, I loved chopping it up with all of you, it's just that after eight hours of constant chatter, a brother gets tiyad! (had to break out the patois to fully express my emotion.)

In any case, I'm still in these lavish, cobblestone streets!  My new FRNDY LMRN stickers are posted throughout the beloved area so if you see one tag me on the gram.

For now, check out the humorous clip below:

Potato Salad

A huge smile creeped across my face when I heard the beat used in A$AP Rocky and Tyler, The Creator's new freestyle, oddly titled "Potato Salad." 

Most of you reading this article might be too young to remember, but the riveting instrumental is also found on legendary R&B singer Monica's 2003 hit "Knock Knock."  Reworked by Missy Elliot and Kanye West, the beat dates all the way back to 1976 as it initially appeared on The Masqueraders' single, "It's A Terrible Thing To Waste Your Love."

It's always great when rappers flex their knowledge of music beyond Hip Hop (specifically classic R&B jams).  Furthermore, the juxtaposition of braggadocious lyrics over a soothing sample is the perfect recipe for an eargasmic tune! 

Serving as a teaser for their rumored collaborative WANG$AP album, the visual for the Rap duo's surprise chune appears in a new AWGE 3 DVD.  While we patiently wait for that project to surface, check out the flossy clip below:

Marcato

Damn!  It's been a while hasn't it?  I'm really glad to be back writing for FRNDY LMRN.  I wanted to hold off on releasing this article because I knew all of the big things that were ahead for the person I'm going to write about.  I wanted to incorporate everything for you guys in this article so here we finally are.  Please allow me to introduce my longtime friend and latest interviewee, Marcato.

Meet Prince Nasir Dean, better known by his stage name, Marcato.  Nas is a budding music producer based out of Miami, Florida.  We have known each other since we were about six years old through our mothers.  We spent our adolescent years running the streets of Atlanta.  When Nas moved to New York in 2011, it was a huge change for the both of us.  A few years later, he relocated back to Miami and has been living bi-coastal ever since.  

Growing up, Nas was always involved in the music industry.  His father is the super successful music producer Swizz Beatz, so of course his musical influence is apparent.  Over the past few years, Nasir developed his musical passion and is currently on the journey of becoming a staple in the music business.  What I admire most about Nas is his relentless grind and passion to make it on his own.

Nas has gained tons of success in the last few months.  He received several hit placements with various recording artists throughout the nation!  Furthermore, Nas produced his first hit on IDK's latest single, "Star."  At the end of June, Nasir came to Atlanta to develop his music with several heavy hitters in the industry such as Lil Yachty, Trippie Redd, Rick Ross, Kodie Shane, Gwen Bunn, Black Metaphor and more.  Recently, Nas joined the A&R team at Epic Records!  I can truly say that as both a friend and his publicist, he is only going to the top from here.

While Nas visited Atlanta in June, we sat down to discuss life and his future.  Check out our conversation below:

JULIEN:  What's the origin of your stage name Marcato? 

NASIR:  The origin of my stage name stems from my self-development and self-discovery.  Marcato is a musical instruction indicating a note, chord or passage to be played louder than the surrounding music.  That's what I feel my music represents.

JULIEN:  What genre of music do you consider your work to fall in?

NASIR:  My sound fits in the Hip-Hop, Musical Theater, and Pop genres the best.

JULIEN:  Who influences you the most musically?

NASIR:  Michael Jackson, Jimmy Hendrix, André 3000, Kendrick Lamar, Travis Scott, J. Cole and Pierre Dutour influence and inspire me the most.

JULIEN:  When did your interest for music initially come about?

NASIR:  I first realized that I was interested in potentially pursuing a career in music when my dad gifted me my first beat machine for my 10th birthday. I didn't know what to do with it at first though.

JULIEN:  Have you ever felt any type of pressure to do music due to your father and step-mother's great amount of success?

NASIR:  No, never.  Truthfully, I feel as if I was born to do this regardless.

JULIEN:  Could you briefly describe your music-making process?

NASIR:  My first step in the process of composing music is constructing the melody, percussions then finally the 808's.  Other than that, a good amount of the process is mental preparation—thinking positively.

JULIEN:  What environment do you produce music the best in?

NASIR:  Everyone's different, but for me, I prefer to produce music in the nighttime and ironically at school.

JULIEN:  How has your sound evolved since you first began producing?

NASIR:  Over time I have unlocked many new abilities by introducing myself to new techniques through focus.  It usually comes naturally when I'm working on my craft alone in the solitude of my quiet time.

JULIEN:  What is your biggest challenge musically?

NASIR:  Currently, music theory is my biggest challenge.  It can be overwhelming to completely grasp.

JULIEN:  Do you ever get stuck?

NASIR:  All the time!  I can't imagine there being any artist who doesn't get stuck.

JULIEN:  How do you get your creative juices flowing when that occurs?

NASIR:  If I get stuck during the daytime hours, I shelf the idea for the night.  I work best at night and try to have a positive day with great vibes and energy.  Usually the outcome at night reflects the energy I put out during that day.

JULIEN:  Which artists would you like to collaborate with? and why?

NASIR:  I would like to work with J. Cole and Travis Scott because their records inspire me.  I listen to them repeatedly to decipher and understand what it is that I like about their particular song.  Music should make you think!  It's going to happen when the time is right.

JULIEN:  What are your favorite songs out right now?

NASIR:  Right now, my two favorite songs are "Kevin's Heart" by J. Cole and "Mo Bamba" by Sheck Wes.

JULIEN:  What is your favorite album of all time? 

NASIR:  It would definitely have to be Metallica's Master of Puppets album.  I listened to it at a very young age—It truly helped develop the love of music I have now.

co-JULIEN:  What is the ultimate direction that you wish to go in musically?

NASIR:  I want to become a music aficionado and leader of the next generation's musical youth prospects.

JULIEN:  Can fans expect an EP from you anytime soon?

NASIR:  Yes!  One is currently in the making, but in the meantime, check out IDK's latest song "Star," co-produced by myself.

JULIEN:  What goals do you want to accomplish within this upcoming year?

NASIR:  I would like to develop my own record label.  I am going to be under Sylvia Rhone at Epic Records, which is huge for me!  I have an amazing lineup of creatives that I'm working closely with.  I am eager to explore and develop the projects.

JULIEN:  In five years, where do you see yourself?

NASIR:  In five years, I see myself in Corsica, France with Scarlett Johansson leading my companies to its highest pinnacle and beyond.

JULIEN:  When it comes to success, how do you define it?

NASIR:  To me, success embodies the inspiration for all generations.  My musical expressions create freedom of the soul from my artistic expression.  That is success.

JULIEN:  What is the best piece of advice that you have ever received?

NASIR:  The best advice I ever received was from my mother Nichole.  She always reminds me to keep an open mind.

Written by Sir Julien George

Photographed by We Own The City

For any inquiries regarding Nasir Dean, feel free to visit Notemarcato.com or email 13th@notemarcato.com.

Mr. Postman

At first glance, one would automatically assume that Farren Allen is a self-centered and obnoxious pretty boy, but in reality he's actually one of the most down to earth individuals you could ever encounter.

I met the humble 26-year-old family man in 2013 through our great mutual friends, Jovan and Julio.  Prior to meeting Farren, I saw various photos of him subtly flexing on Instagram so I was aware of his stylish ways.  It's his personality I was unsure about.  Fortunately, after just one brief conversation with him on the second floor of BAPE, I instantly knew we would become good homies.

A month ago, while I was shooting the promotional video for my "Le Petit Prince" T-shirt in SoHo (peep it on my gram), I bumped into the fashion-forward father with his equally swagged out wife and daughter on Crosby street.  So much has changed in both of our lives since we last saw each other three years ago.  We spoke for a few minutes, but there was so much more to discuss.  Consequently, I asked him if he would like to continue our convo on my #FrendyOriginals platform and here we are!

Check out the transcript of our dialogue below:

FRENDY:  How was your workday, G?

FARREN:  My day was good!  I'm just always thankful for it.  After a holiday, work is usually hectic, but I kind of just rolled with it.

FRENDY:  I feel you.  Being grateful is always key—that's how all the blessings come around.  We really need to practice gratitude daily.  How's the fam?

FARREN:  Yessir—I'm very big on being thankful.  It's important to take a second to see how far we've come.  You eventually learn to be thankful for work, the day and the people involved in it. Yes, the family is good.

FRENDY:  Man, that's great to hear.  It's crazy how long we've known each other.  I knew you since you had them dreads flourishing in these streets!

FARREN:  Yeah man, it's been about 5-6 years!  That's a long time.  And you were around as I found myself as a man. Before the little buzz (no bragging).  So definitely humble beginnings.  You always had kind words and you were still the man then: "Frendy From BAPE."

FRENDY:  *Laughs* Appreciate you.  So fill me in, around the time we first met, were you in school or just working?

FARREN:   Yes, I was working at Pink (Victoria's Secret) doing their visuals.  During that time I was also attending BMCC (Borough of Manhattan Community College).

FRENDY:  Grinding!  Were you studying anything in particular at BMCC?

FARREN:  Well, I was leaning towards being a teacher at the time.  *Laughs*  Believe it, man!  But I was unsure.  So I was just kind of going with the flow—I wasn't sure about school.

FRENDY:  I totally understand.  Your gut feeling can never steer you wrong.  What made you so unsure about becoming a teacher?

FARREN:  *Laughs*  Man, just going to school and remembering the experience.  I was asking myself: "do I really want to put up with that?"  The answer later turned out to be "hell nah."

FRENDY:  *Laughs*  You ain't never lied!  My mom is actually a teacher so I give her all the credit in the world for putting up with that.  Did you complete your two years at BMCC?

FARREN:  *Laughs*  Shout out to moms.  And yeah, I did get my associates degree!  Honestly, I felt like I wasted my time because right after high school I went away to a school called UTI, but my dad ran into some trouble and I had to leave.  So all those loans I eventually got stuck with.

FRENDY:  Oh wow, where is UTI located?

FARREN:  Exton, Pennsylvania.

FRENDY:  Damn, I ain't never heard of that place in my entire life *Laughs*.  How long did you stay in that school?

FARREN:  It's an Amish town—It was bad there, man.  I stayed there for one year.

FRENDY:  You may not have seen it then, but I'm sure you learned a lot from just being there.  What did you end up doing after graduating BMCC?  Were you still working at Victoria's Secret?

FARREN:  Well, I thought things would have changed, but it [my degree] was just a piece of paper.  Not that I'm against school, I just thought it would have changed things.  Life just kept going like nothing.

FRENDY:  Did you stop working at VS?

FARREN:  No, I stayed there.  But of course in New York, well in any hood matter of fact, you want to make real money so I dipped in and out of the street life.  Nothing hardcore—I'm not a dude of that nature—but I carried little B.S drugs around.  Little drop offs.

FRENDY:   When did you stop doing these little drop offs?

FARREN:  Well, that went on for about 6-7 years.  I stopped right after my friend Richard got killed.  Different reason for his death, but I woke up and wanted to differ.

FRENDY:  My condolences.  The death of a loved one is the most potent wake up call.  Damn, I really had no clue you even remotely dealt with the street life.

FARREN:  Thank you, indeed it is.  And it was nothing major, it was just fast money.  Pick up, drop off.  Don't dare think I was in these streets like that  *Laughs*.  It was a sad time then.  As a younger dude, I was saying I need these designer [clothes] and whatever else I thought I needed—I wasn't trying to ask my pops.

FRENDY:  What did you do to get extra cash after that?

FARREN:  Well, I stopped once I started making money at the post office, which is around the same time my boy died.  It ended up working out in time for me!

FRENDY:  That's amazing.  Was it a long process to get the post office job?

FARREN:  Well, before that time I been quit VS and was working at AG Jeans on Greene street in Soho.  It was just some part time gig, not good enough money.  God was on my side because it usually takes a very long time to get hired by the post office—It only took me three weeks.  The following week my girl told me she was pregnant.

FRENDY:  Divine timing!  It takes a whole lot of heart to make money the legit route, rather than doing nonsense for easy bread.  Why did you choose the post office?  Was it a random pick?

FARREN:  Yes, man.  Perfect timing!  And it wasn't a random pick.  I have a dear friend of mine named Idenial who told me about it and convinced me to work there.

FRENDY:  What's a regular day like for you working for the US Postal Service?

FARREN:  I drive the trucks.  My route is on the west side of 42nd street.  It's pretty quiet and calm back there.  I deliver to Kristaps Porzingis and also Lance Thomas of the New York Knicks.  That's the pretty cool part.  There's lots of other perks, but overall it's calm.  It's just the source of income.

As a matter of fact!  Frendy my man, I'm going to hit you with a bomb.  Around the time I met you, I was actually homeless so your kind words of always telling me I'm dope and you feel like I'm going to do something great helped me tremendously.  You gave me words of encouragement and you never knew.

FRENDY:  That's crazy!  I'm glad I was able to have those deep convos with you. I always make sure to spread the good word, especially to the cats I know who are destined to do great things.  As a matter of fact, we all have greatness in us.  It's just that I can tell who is actually going to pursue what they really love to do in life and be dope at it.  It can be in the arts or whatever, you know—it's my gift I guess.

FARREN:  Yeah, man.  You're a good dude.  Always had the good words to help me get through things.

FRENDY:  I'm glad you told me that—It's all about authenticity.  Also, you never know who you're going to inspire with your truth.  Just like the kind words I said that helped you so much, you never know how your story will impact the readers.  If you don't mind me asking, what caused you and your pops to be homeless?

FARREN:  We lived in a basement and it didn't have a back door.  It's illegal to live in a place like that so the fire department came and told us we had to leave with the clothes on our backs.  At the time, my dad used his checks to pay rent, all the money went down the drain.

FRENDY:  Wow, was your mother around as well?

FARREN:  Well, I came to America from Guyana when I was 11 to live with my dad.  My mom is back in Guyana.

FRENDY:  Damn, that's another piece of information I didn't know!  I came to New York when I was seven.  Do you still keep in touch with mom dukes?

FARREN:  Yessir!  We are very close.

FRENDY:  That's great to hear!  When you got kicked out the basement did you have any thoughts of going back to Guyana with your dad?  Or that wasn't even the case at all?

FARREN:  No.  Not even a thought!  You know coming from a third world country—being homeless here is still living better than you would at your home country to a certain degree.  Over here in the states, there are more opportunities, 

FRENDY:  Yes, most def.  There was an article that covered you and your father's ordeal.  The Red Cross came to the rescue, am I right?

FARREN:  Yeah, they placed us in a hotel for about four days.  Then things got real!  The whole time in the hotel I'm saying this isn't so bad.  After the fourth day, we went to pick a shelter to live in.  Thank God the one we got into was on top of a YMCA.  It was like private rooms, just a bed and a closet.  I brought over my TV.  The room was about 28-35 feet.  There was a big bathroom downstairs with a shower and toilet.  Since I was so well-mannered, the YMCA gave me free access to everything.  There was a pool, a basketball court and a computer room.  It turned out kind of cool.  At times I forgot where I was.

To be honest, I buried this information for years because I was embarrassed.  I eventually learned to embrace it all.

FRENDY:  Were you working at PINK throughout the time living in the shelter?

FARREN:  Yeah, I was.  I had to work because money had to come in some kind of way.  Plus, I also felt embarrassed.  I felt like I had to maintain an image but working at Pink wasn't going to cut it.  That's where other things came into the picture.

FRENDY:  Totally understandable.  I'm glad everything is working out for you right now.  Sheesh, you have an entire family of your own!  When did you know your wife was the one?

FARREN:  Yes, I do.  But man!  a mutual friend introduced us.  She knew of me before I knew her because, of like, social media and dating other females.  When I met Destinie, everything was there.  I was just so curious about her and was simply impressed overall with her.

Being without a mother for so long, I lacked in showing emotions and she showed me (still is) how to love.  She's able to provide me with something that I've been missing for so long.  As weird as it may sound, she "babies" me *Laughs*.  She makes me feel like a man, but also like a kid being loved, if that makes sense.  I was raised by my dad so it was very emotionless.  Des filled that role I was missing for a while and that's how I knew she was the one.  It wasn't all sunshine, but we made it work!

FRENDY:  Beautiful.  How long were you guys dating before you popped the big question?

FARREN:  It was a year into our relationship.  Everything was going good—I wanted to show her that I was serious.  She knew my reputation for being with a bunch of girls.  Well, she gave me that label.  Even though I was like that, I wasn't a messy guy.  I always tried to make sure I kept a good name anywhere I went.  With a certain look, people tend to label you, but I wanted to be serious this time around and actually give the relationship an honest try.

I didn't propose all extra.  It was during a simple meet up in SoHo.  We were talking about clothes and buying vintage band tees and I popped out the ring!

FRENDY:  Too smooth, my man.  A year is relatively such a short time to realize your partner is "the one," but love is one powerful drug!  Especially when it's real.  Speaking of fashion, I see that your wife is really into it.  Can you tell me a bit more about her venture into the field?

FARREN:  Yessir! Love is beautiful.  When you feel it, you just know.  My wife started blogging.  She has a huge fashion sense.  She actually styles me sometimes.   This woman lives for fashion!  Her hobby is looking at clothes all day, I've never seen that amount of dedication to clothes in my life.

She eventually got into reselling designer threads, reworking vintage pieces and wholesale women clothing.  Her business has reached new levels!  Super proud of her.  From the early days I told her she would blow up and things are certainly heading towards that direction.

FRENDY:  It's a match made in heaven because you're so stylish yourself.  What are some of your favorite brands right now?

FARREN:  Yeah, man.  Because now I get styled by her, I don't have to think too much *Laughs*.  Nah man, seriously she's a beautiful individual.  Teaching me things every single day.  The fashion is a bonus for me.

Honestly, these days I've changed; I don't want to be so loud.  Most of the times you see me I'm in trousers or sweats with a vintage T-shirt.  Of course, I'm always wearing something heavy on the feet.  I really don't have a favorite brand, but I can say that I have tons of Saint Laurent in my closet.

FRENDY:  Would you ever consider getting into the modeling business?

FARREN:  I really don't think so because I love being behind the scenes.  I really love being low-key so it's honestly up in the air.

FRENDY:  I feel you.  Hey, at least you can live vicariously through your daughter being in the spotlight.  She's adorable, plus the gram loves her! *Laughs*.

FARREN:  Yessir! Thank you, man.  The people always show love to her, and whenever we're out, she is waving and blowing everyone kisses *Laughs*.

FRENDY:  That's hilarious.  She's a star!

FARREN:  "She get it from her mama!" *Laughs*.  I always thank God for her being a happy baby—She's always so joyful and it helps me get away from any worries I have.  With my past experiences, I'm always thinking about something.  Having a family is a great escape. I also have a chocolate labrador, her name is Heather.  She's great company too!

FRENDY:  A True blessing.  You're a young man with a stable income and an amazing family.  What else do you want to accomplish in life?

FARREN:  The next step is to move to New Jersey and get a house.  Before I moved to New York, I lived in Bloomfield, New Jersey for one year.  I did my freshman year at Bloomfield high school.  The school programs there are way better than New York's.  In the city, kids are forced to grow up really fast—there's 15 year olds taking the train to school alone.  They grow up and see so much in a fast pace.  I want all my kids to enjoy being a kid as long as possible because I didn't. 

Diggy Is Back

Not too long ago, I bumped into the lil' homie Diggy Simmons right in front of SoHo's Crosby Street Hotel.  It was such a pleasant surprise because I haven't spoken to him in years since I stopped working at the BAPE store.  We caught up for a few minutes, but my main concern was his music: "When are you dropping some new joints?"  I asked.  Fortunately, he told me to expect some jams in the coming months.

Fast forward to now, and here he is with a new verse out of the blue!  The young rapper turned actor-model hopped on Atlanta native KEY!'s bouncy tune "Dig it," which actually references Diggy's appearances on his legendary dad's MTV reality television show, Run's House.

Listen to Diggy's scorching bars below:

R.A.N. (Official Music Video)

If you ever find yourself in a little jam with a shorty that you're trying to holla at, just play this new record from Miguel for some extra motivation to seal the deal!

Titled "R.A.N." (an acronym for 'Real Ass N*gga'), the confident-boosting tune is found on the soundtrack for legendary music video director Director X's SUPERFLY remake, which is currently in theaters.

Its visual finds the "Coffee" crooner on some Bonnie and Clyde ish with his old lady.  Being the real n*gga that he is, Miguel takes all the smoke in order to keep his woman out of harm's way.

Check out the Lesean Harris-directed clip below:

Rocky and Skepta Praises The Lord

It's only right that I present this right after the epic interview with my VLONE-affiliated buddy Ryan Mulry.  I like to keep everything cohesive, you know?  In any case, ASAP Rocky has finally unveiled the much anticipated visual for his Testing album standout cut, "Praise The Lord (Da Shine)," featuring the grimiest of emcees himself, Skepta.

The trippy, split-screen and building bouncing visual finds the two rap comrades in their respective hoods, as they exchange fiery bars on the"Shutdown" spitter-produced banger (I'm talking about Skepta, if you didn't know).

Check it out below: