No. 7 Lil Baby

Atlanta’s hip hop scene has been a breeding ground for talent, consistently producing artists who have redefined the genre and left an indelible mark on the music industry. From trap music to chart-topping hits, Atlanta has been at the forefront of hip hop culture. Here, we celebrate Lil Baby, one of the Top 10 Kings of Atlanta Hip-Hop who have helped shape the city’s vibrant music landscape.

Lil Baby received the Jul-Aug 2023 Cover Issue because we appreciate his ability to tell real-life stories in his colorful and industrious style, great charm and charisma, steadfast ability to not waver in the face of adversities, respect for commonality, and partiality. After all, he’s our favorite rapper, being Atlanta based, nationally, or internationally.

Lil Baby emerged as a breakout star in the Atlanta hip hop scene in the late 2010s. His melodic trap sound, coupled with introspective and gritty lyrics, have resonated with a new generation of hip hop fans. Lil Baby’s impressive rise to fame, with hits like “Drip Too Hard” and “The Bigger Picture,” has solidified his status as one of Atlanta’s rising stars. His ability to deliver captivating storytelling and emotional depth sets him apart from his peers.

Lil Baby has not only helped to shaped the city’s music landscape but have also made a significant impact on the genre as a whole. Through his unique style, innovative sound, and captivating performances, he has helped to elevate Atlanta’s hip hop scene to global recognition, solidifying the city’s status as a powerhouse in the music industry.

The Music That Made Lil Baby Who He Is

Lil Baby’s rise to stardom can be attributed to several standout songs that have solidified his status as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

One of the songs that propelled Lil Baby to stardom is “Drip Too Hard,” a collaboration with fellow rapper Gunna. Released in 2018, the track showcases Lil Baby’s melodic flow and infectious energy. The catchy chorus and memorable verses captivated listeners and introduced them to his unique style, leading to widespread acclaim and commercial success.

Another notable song that contributed to Lil Baby’s rise is “Yes Indeed,” a collaboration with Canadian rapper Drake. This high-energy track, released in 2018, showcased Lil Baby’s ability to hold his own alongside one of the industry’s biggest names. The song’s catchy hooks, clever wordplay, and Lil Baby’s confident delivery propelled it to the top of the charts, further solidifying his presence in the music industry.

“Freestyle” is yet another song that played a pivotal role in Lil Baby’s ascent to stardom. Released in 2017, the track highlights his lyrical prowess and storytelling abilities. With its introspective lyrics and raw emotion, “Freestyle” resonated with audiences and showcased Lil Baby’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level.

Additionally, “Woah” became a massive hit for Lil Baby. Released in 2019, the song features a captivating beat, infectious hooks, and Lil Baby’s trademark flow. The track’s popularity further cemented his status as a rising star and introduced his music to an even broader audience.

These songs, along with many others in Lil Baby’s discography, have helped him carve out a unique space in the hip-hop landscape. With his distinctive style, captivating storytelling, and ability to connect with listeners, Lil Baby has undoubtedly made a lasting impact on the industry. As he continues to release new music and push creative boundaries, there’s no doubt that his star will continue to shine brightly in the years to come.

Life and Time of Lil Baby: From the Streets to Superstardom

Dominique Armani Jones, professionally known as Lil Baby, has rapidly emerged as one of the most prominent and influential figures in contemporary hip-hop. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Lil Baby’s journey from a troubled past to becoming a chart-topping artist is nothing short of remarkable. This comprehensive article delves into the life and times of Lil Baby, tracing his extraordinary rise in the music industry, his impact on the rap landscape, and his ongoing legacy.

Lil Baby was born on December 3, 1994, and grew up in the rough neighborhoods of Atlanta. Like many aspiring artists, he faced significant challenges and obstacles growing up, including involvement in street activities and multiple encounters with the law. However, it was during a prison sentence that Lil Baby discovered his passion for music and began honing his skills as a rapper.

Lil Baby’s breakthrough came in 2017 when he released his debut mixtape, “Perfect Timing.” The project gained traction and caught the attention of Quality Control Music, a renowned label responsible for launching the careers of artists like Migos and Lil Yachty. Recognizing his raw talent and authenticity, Quality Control signed Lil Baby, catapulting him into the spotlight.

In 2018, Lil Baby released his debut studio album, “Harder Than Ever,” which showcased his unique blend of melodic hooks and hard-hitting trap beats. The album featured hits like “Yes Indeed” featuring Drake, which became a chart-topping success. Lil Baby’s ability to seamlessly switch between introspective storytelling and infectious anthems resonated with audiences, propelling him to newfound fame.

As Lil Baby’s career progressed, his growth as an artist became increasingly evident. He continued to release successful projects such as “Street Gossip” (2018) and “My Turn” (2020), both of which solidified his position as a leading force in hip-hop. Lil Baby’s versatility shines through as he seamlessly navigates between introspective tracks that reflect his personal experiences and energetic bangers that dominate the airwaves.

Lil Baby’s lyrical content often delves into the challenges he faced growing up, the perils of street life, and the importance of hustling and maintaining resilience. His ability to convey vulnerability and authenticity has resonated with fans worldwide, making him a relatable figure in the rap game.

Beyond his music, Lil Baby has used his platform to address social issues and advocate for change. He released the powerful single “The Bigger Picture” in response to the police brutality protests that swept the nation in 2020. The song addresses racial inequality, police violence, and the need for societal reform. Lil Baby’s willingness to speak out and use his platform for social awareness has earned him respect and admiration from both fans and peers.

Lil Baby has expanded his influence beyond music, venturing into various business endeavors. He has launched his own record label, 4PF (Four Pockets Full), which serves as a platform to nurture and promote emerging talent. Additionally, Lil Baby has collaborated with major brands, such as Nike and Puma, solidifying his presence in the fashion world.

Collaborations have played a significant role in Lil Baby’s success as well. He has worked with a diverse range of artists, including Drake, Lil Wayne, and Gunna, among others. These collaborations have not only expanded his fan base but have also showcased his ability to adapt to different styles and genres.

Lil Baby’s journey from the streets of Atlanta to becoming a rap superstar is a testament to his resilience, talent, and unwavering dedication. His ability to authentically convey his experiences and emotions through his music has resonated with millions of fans worldwide.

As Lil Baby continues to evolve as an artist, his impact on the rap industry and popular culture remains undeniable. From his powerful lyricism to his social consciousness, he has become a voice for a generation. Lil Baby’s legacy as a storyteller, trendsetter, and influential figure in hip-hop is solidified, and his ongoing success will undoubtedly shape the future of the genre for years to come.

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Once a member of the duo group Black Buddafly with sister Jazz, Aminata “Amina Buddafly” Schmahl, life as an artist is a story that is all too familiar. She has had the bad record deal – Def Jam Records. Her marriage with hubby and music producer Peter Gunz is tumultuous at best and a familiarity that is identifiable to many – Hip-Hop or conservative. Through it all, Buddafly has remained optimistic and is very appreciative of her role on VH1’s “Love & Hip-Hop New York” and the direction her music career is heading.

Get a little in debt with Amina as she field some questions from USL.

Which music artist inspired you while growing up?

Mariah Carey was my main influence, and I learned so much just by studying her vocally. I do not think I know anyone who knows her music as much as I do. Lol. Especially the 90’s and early 2000’s, Mariah’s music is still playing on my iPod, while working out and in my car… Also, I was influenced by a lot of 90’s R&B female singers and groups like En Vogue; Brownstone, TLC, Zhane, Brandy, Monica, Deborah Cox and the list continues… However, I am not a one-genre kind of person; I love a great pop song… Alanis Morisette, The Bangles, Linda Perry, all had a big part in me becoming an artist and getting me to where I am today….

Your parents are also passionate musically, what are your favorite musical memories with them?

My favorite music memories were with my dad when me and my sisters were very young.. Probably 2, 3, or even 4-years-old.. we would sing and dance around the house all the time. My dad would play the guitar and sing with us or put on some salsa or classical music for us to dance to. Every night after bath time it was like a naked-party situation in the living room.

How did Black Buddafly help you to become a solo artist?

Well, let’s just say, without Black Buddafly, I would not be where I am or who I am today. My sisters and that group are the reasons I even came to America 12 years ago. All the great experiences we have had and all of the downfalls… I would never trade for anything because it shaped me and taught me a lot.

How did you feel when you were first signed to Def Jam and J Records?

We all felt very excited… It was our journey and the moment… we did not realize how big it was… It was what we had always dreamed. However, being signed seemed so normal, and we went with the f low. It was great to be around all the legends like Jay-Z, Russell Simmons and L.A. Reid on a regular artist, exec type situation. I was just very young, and we thought this was our time… It didn’t turn out the way we wanted it, but the experience was still a huge accomplishment for three innocent girls from Germany.

How did you get introduced into the “Love & Hip-Hop” franchise?

It was because of my husband. The producers found him very appealing, funny and interesting, as that is what kind of person he is. So they wanted to know more about him and his life… Also, his love life, which I was part of, like me, and him was already married – on the low… He introduced me to the producers and being that I was a musician and artist, they thought it would be a great fit for the show. At first though, I was like me? “Love and hip hop?” Never! Then I was like, “I don’t know…” That soon turned into “hmm maybe, what else am I doing?” Let’s do it!” How do you feel about your experiences on “Love & Hip-Hop NY” and what have you learned from them?

My experiences with the show have been bitter sweet… I still feel I am not necessarily the person for a reality show… I like to think I am a little weird.. A real musician.. who might not be outgoing enough. I might sometimes be a little too boring for the average viewer. However, it has brought me a whole lot of new fans whom I love and appreciates. I have sold more records, and I am not even signed to a major record label. Overall I have had more success thru “Love and Hip Hop,” than ever in my life, and it just gives me a certain level of fame, that I can use in my favor. My goal was to promote my music, and it worked. On the f lip side, it was one of the hardest things to go through emotionally, because it is real life at the end of the day. We live this! We don’t just film it and then go home… no, our life is what you see (plus a lot more of course), but the point is, it was very draining at times. I have learned just to keep reminding myself of who I am. That is what saves me!

What does love meant to you and how have your relationship with Peter Gunz progressed?

Love means understanding one another in all areas. It means trust and dedication; love has never been an easy thing in my life, or let me say relationships have not been an easy thing in my life… I’ve been through a lot with men. Love hurts! Even though, it should not… However, when I love someone I give my all, with no limitations. Our relationship has definitely been rocky but is getting better with time, as I think it should. We are still happily married, excited for our baby on the way, and people are going to have to tune into Season 5 to see the details. 🙂

After you had sung on the “Love & Hip-Hop Reunion” show, your music did well on iTunes. Are there plans for a tour or spot gigs?

Yes. As I had said before, my sales went up to where I hit number 3 on the iTunes R&B Charts. I release my music independently, so that was definitely a win for me, especially since I did not only write but also produce the track, “Don’t Wanna Be Right.” As far as tour, that would be something to talk about next year after the next season since I will be a new mom and in mommy mode for the rest of the year. However, my new album is in the works! Where do you get your motivation and inspiration while writing songs? Sometimes I am not motivated… then I don’t write, because it is frustrating… I wanna create all the time, but I have to wait til I get inspired. I never know when it happens or where the push comes from, that inspires me. But, I like to say my music is real, honest and free… Those three words discern it best. Also, when I do get inspired it is most likely a real situation that I am dealing with at the time.

If you could work with any artist, who would it be and why?

I would write a song with one of my favorite artist and songwriter, Sara Bareilles, or another great writer I love, Gary Barlow. Another person I would wanna write and sing with is a young artist named Tori Kelly.

What’s next for you?

Well, I am giving birth to my first child in a month so I think a lot of beautiful, stressful and memorable moments are in my near future… Filming Season 5 of “Love and Hip Hop” and recording and writing my new album should be enough for now. 🙂

Connect with Amina  Buddafly at www.twitter.com/aminabuddafly. Interview by Patrick Kelly @PrettyBoyPK for USL Magazine. Special thanks to Amina Buddafly.

Everybody in hip-hop knows who Big Tigger is, and if he or she does not know, he or she has been sleeping under a rock for the past 15 years. Darian “Big Tigger” Morgan was the host way back when “Rap City: Tha Basement” brought us the hottest hip-hop artists who were relevant then. Tigger was and is a staple at BET (the only national African American cable network), hosting shows like BET’s number one music show “106 and Park,” “BET Style,” “BET Uncut,” and most recently, the “BET Awards 2012 Post Show.” Tigger has also had a wealth of successes as a host and DJ in radio and syndication. He has deejayed at WPGC (95.5) in Washington, D.C. and 92 Q in Baltimore, Md., as well as Power 105.1 (New York’s Hip-Hop & R&B Station) and now V103, “The People’s Station,” in Atlanta, Ga.

Being from B-More (Baltimore), I remembered how Tigger use to rock at WPGC and 92 Q. Working at two of the top radio stations in the region, man, the brother use to pull out all the stops. I remembered one night I was listening to one of his mixes, and I kid you not. This kat was hitting so hard that I pulled my little blue 1987 Toyota Camry to the side of the road, got out, and started dancing my ass off on the edge of the road. Lol!

I have had an affinity for Big Tigger since then, but the deal was sealed when the crew and I met him during Ne-Yo’s Malibu Red event in the “A” (Atlanta) last summer. You know, sometimes people get a little fake when they are in the spotlight. However, you could tell this brother was genuine. He was not aware of who we were, yet he still gave us the time of day. He was cool, really down-to-earth, and just funny as hell. Moreover, that is why I gave Big Tigger the cover, not because he is Big Tigger (well, a little bit), but because at the end of the day he remains true to who he is, and he is not bad on the eyes. You know I cannot have no “Mitch” on the cover.

Now, I had the opportunity to interview him personally and just to bullet-point without giving up all the details… I asked him to give me five things he would tell an artist to look out for if they are trying to get into the biz, and he said, “Get a good lawyer/manager cuz these dudes is shady!” Now that is all five things right there. Lol! It is that real! My interpretation is that no matter what, at the end of the day, it is about getting and keeping your business tight; nothing else matters. So it is true; some of these dudes and chicks out here are wicked. You gotta “keep ya game up!”

So during the interview, Big Tigger talked about the type of woman he likes; of course, we had to get that in for the ladies and those haters out there. He also talked about his passion and love for his work, his style of deejaying, his most memorable experience as a DJ, his favorite nightclubs, and what he has coming up for 2014.

Most people can explain explicitly what their love or passion is for why they do what they do. For example, a dancer could say, “When I dance, I transcend into my state of euphoria.” What experience do you feel when you’re at the height of your game (artistry)?

Tigger: There’s no better feeling than when you are in the zone, and whatever you say or play puts other people into their zone! Whether I am Deejaying or hosting, it is incredible to know whatever you do makes an impact in someone’s daily life!

How would you describe your style of deejaying?

Tigger: In a word, flexible! I can spin at clubs, NBA games, bah mitzvahs, on air, or at weddings. I can mix old-school hip-hop and r&b, pop, EDM, and trap music, and nobody will be mad at it. I can turn up in the club or keep it sexy!

So how’s the love life? What’s your type? What piques your interest?

Tigger: Love life is awesome! A woman of class, intelligence, drive, goals, inner and outer beauty, and a humorous/silly side to her are all desired qualities in a woman. I love a flexible woman who can turn up in hood environments and navigate corporate events. Add “lady in the street and a freak in the bed, ” and you have perfection!

Would you still do it if you were not paid to DJ or create music?

Tigger: I would. I have been deejaying since age 15! I do not get paid for my podcasts, but I love doing them. I have done 49 FREE podcasts (available on iTunes) in the last two years and 2.9 million downloads later, and I am still excited every time I drop a new one!

Sometimes entertainers create a persona that’s not their true self. What elements make up who you are, and are the persona and you as a person one within the same?

Tigger: I have been blessed to be very successful while being myself. Big Tigger is my more outgoing side, but it is still the real me. I am kind of quiet when not out in public.

Was there ever a time when you doubted who you were or what you wanted before your current successes?

Tigger: I never doubted who I was. I still have doubts about the future from time to time about everything. It is human nature.

What is your most memorable experience while deejaying at nightclubs and events?

Tigger: I opened for Kid Capri at the NBA Players’ official ball when All-Star was in D.C. with Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Dr. J, and others in the building, and I smashed! It was dope to have Magic Johnson come up to me and say, “Boy, you were rocking!” Also, back in the days when No Limit was crazy, I Deejayed a homecoming party in Virginia State, and when I dropped “Make Me Say Uhhhhh” after about three other No Limit joints, the illest fight broke out cuz people got too damn hyped! They almost threw a dude from the 2nd floor!

Of all the acts you have worked with, who is the most enlightening about artistry?

Tigger: I haven’t Deejayed for many artists, but I recorded, shot a video, and performed on tour with R. Kelly! Amazing to watch him work on four songs at once!

Tell us about your upcoming projects.

Tigger: I am re-launching my website BigTigger.com and started my new Big Tigger Foundation! The Big Tigger Celebrity Classic began in June 2014, and this time it is in Atlanta for its 10th year! I am the new official DJ of the Atlanta Hawks, and I have some other things in development, but can’t let that out yet!

What is your perception of the progression of dance and electronic music in North America? Where do you see it in the next five or ten years?

Tigger: EDM is HUGE! I am good at it but wish I was exceptional at it… I see DJs spinning in front of 10,000 to 30,000 in stadiums and wish I could get down like that. If I applied myself, I could get to that level, but I am not passionate about it like Hip Hop & R&B! I think it is here to stay but will evolve as it already has with Trap-House, etc.

Remixes and nightclub appearances are the bread and butter for any DJ. Also, successful remixes help build a DJ’s status and provide more work and opportunities. Which of your projects would you say was the most successful (in overhaul experience), and what was the most important lesson learned from that project?

Tigger: I would say the five years I spent as DJ for the Washington Wizards! It gave me exposure to different groups of people and corporations! That exposure allowed me to spin for the Redskins, Maryland Terps, Kentucky Wildcats, Macy’s, and others. Corporate checks are awesome!

What are your top-7 party venues?

Tigger: In no specific order: Reign in Atlanta, Bamboo in Miami, Park in DC, Beamers/Prive in Dallas, LIV in Miami, Dream in Miami, and Rehab in Vegas.

What would you tell them if you could mentor any young man or woman out there wanting to get into the music business?

Tigger: Get a good lawyer/manager cuz these dudes are shady!

Connect with Big Tigger:
Twitter: @BigTiggerShow Facebook: BigTiggerShow Instagram: @BigTiggerShow Podomatic: BigTiggerShow

Interview By Patrick Kelly | Twitter: @PrettyboyPK
Photo By: Insana Collins

To have fame and success in the music industry on an international level is an accomplishment every artist wants to achieve, but it is also a great challenge. With songs topping the charts from Canada, to Japan, as well as multiple awards such as the MTV Europe Award for Best Arabian Act, Karl Wolf has definitely achieved that goal. His hit single “Africa” went four times platinum in Canada and he has worked with Three 6 Mafia, Mary J. Blige, Jay Sean, Snoop Dogg and countless others.

So sit back, grab a drink, smoke or whatever you need to chill-out and calm down, because we are talking with Karl Wolf about his humble beginnings, his push to become where he is today and how he plans to bring his world-famous sound to the America. Karl also has a hot new single available on iTunes called “Go Your Own Way,” which is a take from the 1976 hit “Go Your Own Way” by the British/American band Fleetwood Mac. “Go Your Own Way” features Block Squad Monopoly’s artist Reema Major and is gen-pop certified. GPC means it is hot as hell,  we love it, want to dance to it and are promoting it as you are reading this article. So, without further a-due, Karl Wolf.

So Karl, what made you want to get into the music business and how did you get your start?

My parents were both musicians. I grew up in Dubai because my parents left the civil war in Lebanon in the 70’s. My dad used to play the drums in a band, and my whole family pretty much had musical talents. When we came to Dubai, there wasn’t a big outlet for music like there is today. So when I arrived in Canada, that is when I got into production. I started producing and writing for different artists. That is how I got my start in the business, and after selling about a million records as a producer/ songwriter, I decided that it was time to be recognized for my musical talents instead of just writing for other artists. One thing leads to another, one record to another, and now I am here today four albums in and over 2 million records sold worldwide.

Who were some of your main inspirations?

Obviously, Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder had a big huge influence on me, since I also play the piano. Prince, Chicago, Boyz II Men, 112, Naughty By Nature and pretty much everybody from Hip Hop and R&B to Pop and Rock & Roll influenced who I am today.

Which major artist gave you your first real big break and what was it like?

My first big break was opening up for Mary J. Blige in Dubai. That was my first big concert. She was cool and sweet to me, which was very surprising because everybody was telling me about how she is tough and not cool with people. So that had me a little scared, but she was really nice! She sat down with my parents and me, and we all talked. She told me how everybody was telling her about my music and that she liked what she heard. So yeah, she pretty much gave me that big break, and it was just a snowball effect from there.

So you have opened up for big names like Mary J. Blige and Lauren Hill. You have also worked with many other big name artists such as Snoop Dogg, Jay Sean, and Three 6 Mafia. Out of all of the artists, you have worked with, whom did you enjoy working with the most?

I definitely enjoyed working with Juicy J from Three 6 Mafia. That is my boy. Dude is mad funny; mad cool. We shot the video in L.A. for our single “Mash It Up,” and he is just a riot. He is fun to be around; he is a real good dude. I also enjoyed working with Snoop Dogg as well.

Your people say that you are coming out with a new single and album soon. You have already had international success with past albums, do you think that this next one will bring that same success to the America?

I think so. America and I have been flirting back and forth with my music for quite some time. I think it is just a matter of the right song for the market and support behind me. There’s also a growth of interest happening with my music in America. Earlier this year, I did the New York City show for Pop Explosion, and it was a big success. So I might be on maybe 20 dates per tour in American cities. I am working in the studio on some crazy stuff and thinking about working with some major artists. I do not want to say any names right now, but I am thinking of some major rappers who are hot in the industry right now. I might be working with Mavado on something in Miami soon.

Speaking of working with other artists, Drake and Justin Beiber have gained their popularity mostly in America. Are you considering working with one of them since you are bringing your brand to America?

Me and Justin Beiber actually did a show in Toronto when Usher brought him out. He came up to me and told me he was a big fan. There’s a connection; a Canadian connection. Maybe I will call him up on something. However, I do not like using people; just calling them up to say “let’s do a record.” I am not gonna call them up and just go out on a limb and say “Hey, I am working on a record. Help me out.” It has got to come out of love. It has got to come from them. So if they want to work with me, they will reach out. I am in my lane, so if they come through, more power to that.

“Africa” is one of your biggest hits thus far, but is it one of your favorite songs?

“Africa” is probably my favorite songs to perform when I am on stage. However, one of my songs that I love is one from an older album called “My Ethnicity.” That is a really good one that I like. It reminds me of my parents and where they came from. They came to North America because it really wasn’t safe where they were. My parents sacrificed their lives to give me a better life here, and I will never forget that. That was the whole concept of that song, never forgetting where you come from.

So what is it like having this level of success in your career and what life lessons did you learn from it?

As an artist, you never work hard just to fail, and it is rare when things really work out. The success of “Africa” was a real shock to me. It was my biggest single, but the story behind that is really interesting and made me learn a lesson. Nobody really believed in it, and no one wanted to sign me at the time. I bought the rights to the original song from Toto, recorded my own version, and borrowed almost $200,000 to make the whole project happen. Every label from Universal, Sony, and Warner Bros just told me that I did not have what it takes to make it. They did not want to give me a chance until I hired a radio promoter. “Africa” got on the radio, and it blew up in Canada. BMI called me soon after, offered me a record deal, and the song went four times platinum in Canada. So, one of the lessons I learned is to stick to your guns. The guys at the top really did not know anything about the music. I mean, if all of these guys at the top rejected this song, but it became my biggest selling song, how can you have faith in these guys when it comes to what’s good music or not? So for artists out there, don’t listen to the bigwigs telling you what’s not going to work because they really don’t know. You have to go back to your fans. I pretty much said “Screw the labels” at that point, and decided to let the people decide. That is when I learned that success comes from your fans. When you promote and build your fans, that is when the big labels will respond.

How do you feel about your female fans? Are you single, or do you have a special lady that’s inspiring your music?

Ha, ha, ha! I love them! The more, the merrier. It is all fun, but I use my music for inspiration. I am single because it is hard having a girlfriend in this industry, especially with all of the traveling and the long nights. It is less drama that way!

For more on Karl Wolf, visit his website at www.karlwolf.com and follow him on Twitter @KarlWolfs.

Article By Christopher Mobley
Photography By Steve Haining