What’s good, y’all? It’s Double A, the founder of Black Ronin Sounds, and today I’m switching things up. I’ve been all about the grind lately, pushing beats and hustling hard to build this brand. But there’s something important I want to talk about today that gets overlooked a lot when we’re so focused on our music careers. I’m talking about fitness.

You see, before I was deep into making music, my first real passion was working out. Yeah, you heard that right—I was all about those dumbbells and heavy bags long before I ever touched a beat machine. I was in the gym, grinding through sets, clearing my mind, and building my body. But somewhere along the way, I got distracted. I got caught up in the grind of being a producer, and my fitness routine took a backseat.

I’ll be real with you—I haven’t been as consistent with working out in the past few months. Life, work, wife, kid, and the hustle all took over, and I let my fitness goals slip. But here’s the thing: when I was at my best physically, I felt better mentally, and my creativity was through the roof. So, it’s time to get back at it, and I want to encourage you to do the same.

Exercise does wonders for your body, sure, but it also does wonders for your mind. When you’re working out, you’re not just building muscle—you’re clearing your head, letting go of stress, and opening up space for new ideas to flow. There’s something about getting your heart pumping and your body moving that just sparks creativity. Ideas flow easier, you think clearer, and suddenly, the next fire beat you’ve been struggling with comes together effortlessly.

And it’s not just about getting in shape physically—it’s about discipline. Working out regularly teaches you commitment and consistency, traits that are essential when it comes to music production. If you can push through a tough workout, you can push through those tough days when the music just isn’t coming together. It’s all about developing that mental toughness that’ll help you keep going, even when the grind gets hard.

Now, I’m not here to preach a perfect workout routine. I’m not about to tell you to go sign up for a marathon or do 100 pushups every morning (unless that’s your thing—no judgment!). But I do want to remind you that your body and mind are connected. If you take care of both, you’ll be amazed at how much more productive and creative you can be. Whether it’s going for a run, hitting the gym, or doing some yoga—just move. Your brain will thank you; your beats will thank you, and your future self will definitely thank you.

So, here’s the deal: I’m getting back into my workout routine, and I want to invite you to join me. Let’s set some fitness goals together—no pressure, just progress. Let’s balance the grind of making beats with the grind of taking care of our bodies. Who knows? Maybe that next fire loop will come to you mid-squat, or you’ll have your best melody idea after a long walk. You’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain.

And just like with music, the key is consistency. Whether it’s 10 minutes a day or an hour three times a week, just make it part of your routine. You’ll be amazed at how much it helps with your focus, creativity, and overall mood.

Remember, your music career isn’t just about what you make; it’s about how you feel when you make it. And working out is an easy way to feel good and get your mind in the right space to create your best work.

So let’s do this—get moving, get motivated, and get creative. You’ve got the tools to succeed both in the studio and in the gym. Let’s level up together.

Until next time, keep working hard, keep staying healthy, and keep making those beats that make people say, “That’s the one.”

This is Double A, signing out. Peace.

In a genre defined by authenticity and evolution, REASON’s journey serves as a masterclass in resilience and artistry. With his latest single, “Not What You Think”, featuring Dreamville’s very own Bas, REASON is stepping into a new chapter of his career—and he’s making sure his voice is heard loud and clear.

The TDE Era: A Legacy of Growth

For seven years, REASON was a cornerstone of Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), one of hip-hop’s most respected labels. From his contributions to the Kendrick Lamar-curated Black Panther soundtrack to his critically-acclaimed studio projects, REASON built a foundation that showcased his lyrical prowess and raw storytelling ability. During his TDE tenure, he released standout projects like There You Have It and Porches, cementing himself as a talent who could hold his own in a label stacked with heavy hitters like Kendrick Lamar, SZA, and ScHoolboy Q.

But, like many artists navigating the complexities of the music industry, tensions arose. Following the rollout of Porches, it became clear that REASON’s artistic vision was ready to take a new shape. In the summer of 2024, he made the bold decision to leave TDE, a move that shocked fans and critics alike. While his exit could have been clouded with controversy, REASON approached the transition with grace, expressing nothing but gratitude:
"The last 7 years have been incredible, and I've appreciated all the time and experiences that have come within that span of time."

“Not What You Think”: The Bounce of a New Beginning

“Not What You Think” isn’t just a song—it’s a statement. The track introduces us to REASON’s forthcoming album, I Love You Again, slated to drop on February 28, 2025. For REASON, this song is more than a lead single; it’s a reflection of his mindset after stepping away from TDE. In his own words:
"‘Not What You Think’ was a cadence and bounce I came up with right after splitting with TDE. I had no words. I just knew I wanted the bounce to be in a certain pocket, and I wanted to speak on situations where artists/entertainers aren’t always what the public thinks they are."

This theme hits home for many in the industry. Fans often assume they know their favorite artists—how they live, what they think, and why they make the decisions they do. REASON flips that narrative, peeling back the layers of misconception with honesty and vulnerability. Collaborating with Bas only amplifies the song’s impact, as their chemistry creates a dynamic blend of introspection and energy.

Bas Adds Depth to the Narrative

Bas, known for his sharp lyricism and smooth delivery as a key figure in Dreamville, is the perfect partner for this track. His contribution not only complements REASON’s flow but also strengthens the song’s message. Together, they explore themes of identity, perception, and the struggle to remain authentic in an industry full of projections and expectations. Bas’s inclusion also speaks to REASON’s ability to align himself with artists who share his commitment to artistry over hype.

A Glimpse Into I Love You Again

While we only have a taste of what I Love You Again will offer, “Not What You Think” suggests that this album will be deeply personal. It’s not just about music; it’s about REASON’s transformation, both as an artist and as a person. This project seems poised to delve into the highs and lows of his career, shedding light on the challenges he’s faced and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

The February 28 release date feels monumental, marking a new chapter not only for REASON but for his fans, who have been eagerly awaiting a deeper look into his post-TDE world.

A Message for the Culture

REASON’s journey is a reminder that growth often requires tough decisions. His departure from TDE wasn’t a sign of failure but rather a testament to his willingness to evolve. “Not What You Think” captures this perfectly, blending slick production, a hypnotic cadence, and thought-provoking lyrics to tell a story that resonates far beyond hip-hop.

As REASON gears up for the release of I Love You Again, one thing is clear: he’s not here to prove anything to anyone—he’s here to remind us of what authenticity sounds like. So, while fans may think they know him, this next chapter is sure to challenge those perceptions, offering a fresh perspective on one of hip-hop’s most thoughtful voices.

Get ready for February 28—because REASON isn’t just dropping music. He’s dropping truths.

What’s good, fam? It’s your boy Double A again, founder of Black Ronin Sounds, and today I’m shifting gears. We’ve been talking a lot about the grind, the hustle, the sleepless nights, and all the struggles that come with chasing your dreams. But guess what? It’s time to flip the script and talk about something way more important: your wins.

That’s right, this post is all about celebrating YOU. You’ve been putting in the work, and whether you realize it or not, you’ve already accomplished so much this week. So, let’s take a moment to give you some props, because you’ve earned them.

Maybe this week, you finally made that beat you’ve been thinking about for weeks. Maybe you finished a track you’ve been sitting on for months. Maybe you didn’t get the recognition you hoped for right away, but guess what? That’s not what matters. What matters is that you kept going. And for that alone, you deserve a round of applause.

Let’s be real: as producers, we can be our own worst critics. We’ll tweak, mix, and rework a beat until we’re blue in the face, and then still feel like it’s not quite there. But this week? This week, you kept pushing through. Maybe you created something new, or maybe you learned something new. Either way, you’re leveling up. And that’s what I want to focus on today: your growth.

Think about it: when you started this journey, you were just figuring things out, right? You were experimenting with sounds, learning the ropes, and maybe feeling a little lost in the process. But now? Now you’re here. You’re creating at a level you didn’t even think possible when you first picked up your gear. You’ve improved your skills. You’ve built your sound. And you’ve grown as a producer. That’s no small feat, my friend.

And I’m not just talking about music here. I’m talking about you as an artist, as an entrepreneur. Maybe you’ve taken steps this week to build your brand, whether it’s posting more on social media, networking with other creatives, or even getting your beats on platforms where more people can hear them. You are actively creating your future. That’s huge.

So, let’s pause for a second and give yourself some credit. You didn’t let self-doubt stop you. You didn’t give up when it got tough. Instead, you showed up—day after day, beat after beat—and you got better. You made something that’s uniquely yours. And that’s worth celebrating.

I know it’s easy to get lost in the hustle and forget to give yourself credit for the wins. But not today. Today, we’re celebrating everything you’ve accomplished this week, big or small. Whether you made your best beat yet, found a new sound, or just kept pushing forward even when it felt like things weren’t moving fast enough—you are winning.

And hey, let’s not forget: the hustle is a marathon, not a sprint. There’s no finish line in sight. You’re building something that will last, brick by brick. And this week, you laid down a few more bricks in your empire. So, let’s take a moment to appreciate that.

Now, if you’re ready to level up even further (and who isn’t?), don’t forget—Black Ronin Sounds is here to help. I’ve got sample packs that are designed to inspire and help you bring your vision to life. From Boom Bap to Trap to R&B, I’ve got what you need to keep that momentum going. It’s time to take your beats to the next level. So, hit me up, grab a pack, and let’s keep making that magic happen.

Remember, you’re not just a producer. You’re a force in the making. And this week? This week, you took another step forward. Keep shining, keep creating, and most importantly—keep believing in yourself.

Until next time, keep making those beats that make people stop, listen, and say, “Yo, that’s fire.” You’ve got this.

This is Double A, signing out. Peace.

As a fan of Alligator Bites Never Heal, I’ve been following Doechii’s journey closely, and seeing the mixtape climb to No. 9 on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart is such a well-deserved moment. This project has been a constant in my playlist—a collection of tracks that are bold, thoughtful, and unapologetically unique.

Doechii’s ability to blend alternative hip hop, R&B, and trap makes her stand out in today’s music scene. She’s proving herself to be a standout member of the Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) family, and that’s no small feat considering the label’s history of extraordinary talent. Her rise feels natural, not forced, and her sound is refreshingly original.

Take Nissan Altima, the lead single from the mixtape. It’s catchy, confident, and earned a well-deserved Grammy nomination for Best Rap Performance. The track feels like it was made to be sung (or yelled) in the car during late-night drives—a vibe that’s hard to come by these days.

Then there’s Denial Is a River, one of the most interesting tracks on the mixtape. It’s a perfect example of Doechii’s knack for storytelling and her ability to infuse humor and depth into her lyrics. The song paints a vivid picture of digital-age drama while blending playful beats with sharp, self-aware commentary. It’s the kind of track that makes you laugh, nod, and maybe even double-check your own DMs. It’s one of those songs that sticks with you because it’s as entertaining as it is relatable.

Her recent Tiny Desk Concert was another defining moment. Doechii took her tracks to new heights with live instrumentation and a performance style that’s as engaging as it is effortless. It’s clear that she’s just as captivating live as she is in the studio.

As an artist, Doechii has this incredible ability to push boundaries while staying true to herself. Alligator Bites Never Heal is a perfect example—it’s creative, thoughtful, and full of personality. She’s not afraid to take risks, and it’s paying off in a big way.

Now, on the off chance Doechii herself is reading this (hello!), let me shamelessly shoot my shot: I got heat Doechii, so come holla at me! Whether you’re working on your next mixtape, album, or even just experimenting with new sounds, I'm down to work. Hit me up—your artistry deserves the best, and I’m ready to bring it.

For fans like me, watching Doechii rise has been nothing short of exciting. With this momentum, it’s clear she’s just getting started, and I can’t wait to see what’s next. If you haven’t given Alligator Bites Never Heal a listen yet, do yourself a favor and dive in—you’ll see why it’s turning heads.

What’s your favorite track from the mixtape? Let’s talk about it below!

What’s good, y’all? It’s Double A, founder of Black Ronin Sounds (like you didn't already know), and today I’ve got something real for you. I’m talking about the grind. You know, that thing where you wake up at 2 a.m. with a great idea for a beat and a slight existential crisis. But guess what? That’s the grind, and it’s real. It’s what makes you keep going even when you’re sitting there like, “Did I just spend 12 hours tweaking this one hi-hat?” (Spoiler alert: Yes, yes you did.)

Being a producer isn’t just about making beats and hoping they’ll sell themselves. It’s about building something bigger than just the music. You’re not just a “beatmaker” anymore; you’re a creator, a brand, a whole business. And when you start to think of yourself that way, the world is more likely to start taking you seriously. It’s not just about putting together loops and calling it a day. It’s about building a legacy, one beat at a time.

Now, the grind can be tough. Some days, it feels like you’re running in circles trying to find that one sound that just clicks. It’s not always easy, and sometimes it feels like no one’s even listening. But here’s the truth: it’s all part of the process. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it, right? The struggle, the mistakes, the sleepless nights—they’re all part of what makes your success so sweet. You’ve got to stick with it. Every time you feel like giving up, think about how far you’ve already come. You didn’t get here by accident. You got here by grinding it out.

Now, this is where it gets important: you’ve got to take control. The music industry is tough. It’s full of ups and downs, twists and turns, and more than a few closed doors. But here’s the thing—no one is going to hand you the keys to success. You have to grab them yourself. And you do that by being your own boss. Don’t wait for someone to give you permission. Be a self-made artist, and take control of your career.

This is where the “Ronin” part of Black Ronin Sounds comes in. A Ronin is a samurai without a master. He’s independent, he’s carving his own path, and he’s not waiting around for anyone to tell him what to do. That’s the mindset you need to have as a producer. You don’t need to follow anyone else’s blueprint. Make your own. Build your own brand, and don’t let anyone else define what’s possible for you. The world is out there, and it’s yours for the taking if you’re willing to put in the work.

And speaking of putting in the work—if you need some high-quality, royalty-free sample packs to get your beats to the next level, check out Black Ronin Sounds. I’ve got packs that cover everything from Boom Bap to Trap to R&B. These aren’t the same tired sounds you find everywhere else. They’re fresh, custom-made, and crafted by someone who’s been in the trenches. So, if you’re looking for that next level sound to inspire your next hit, grab a pack and start creating. (Okay, okay, I admit it—shameless plug, but hey, it’s my website, so why not?)

The bottom line here is simple: Don’t let the grind get you down. It’s tough, it’s frustrating, and some days it feels like you’re not making any progress. But trust me, you are. Keep building, keep creating, and most importantly, keep moving forward. You’re not just a producer—you’re a business. And businesses don’t wait for permission. They make their own opportunities.

And hey, if you need the tools to help make your own opportunities, don’t forget to check out Black Ronin Sounds. I’ve got you covered. Let’s make something great together.

Until next time, keep grinding, keep learning, and keep making those beats that make people say, “Damn, I need that in my life.”

This is Double A, signing out. Peace.

The music industry: a glittering world of fame and fortune—or so it seems. Beneath the surface lies a beast of a business that often prioritizes profit over people. R&B singer Emanny, known for his collaborations with heavyweights like Joe Budden and Rick Ross, is tired of the system. He’s speaking out against the predatory practices that have plagued artists for decades, and his solution is as bold as it is overdue: an artist union.

“This Is a Predatory Industry”

Let’s face it: the music industry hasn’t exactly been known for its warm and fuzzy treatment of creators. Contracts with fine print that might as well be in another language, revenue splits that leave artists with pennies, and the constant threat of being shelved or dropped—this is the harsh reality for many musicians.

Emanny’s been around the block enough to see the ugly side of the business. In a recent interview, he made it clear: “The business is never not going to be predatory unless we create some level of union and have a standard for how we are treated.”

And honestly, he’s got a point. Think about it—without the art, what’s left? A bunch of empty conference rooms and unused mixing boards. Emanny sums it up perfectly: “There is no business without the art. We have to make that clear.”

Artists Unite: A Radical Idea? Not Really

The idea of unionizing isn’t as radical as it sounds. In fact, hip-hop veterans like KRS-One and Chuck D have already started paving the way with the Hip Hop Alliance, a group focused on advocating for artists’ rights. But even that initiative, as impactful as it is, falls short of a full-fledged union.

Emanny’s vision? A collective effort that establishes baseline protections for artists—something that goes beyond just advocacy and gets into the nitty-gritty of fair treatment.

And let’s be real: the timing couldn’t be better. AI is making waves in the industry, from AI-generated beats to synthetic vocals. While technology opens doors, it also brings new risks. Emanny warns, “If you think it’s bad now, just imagine how much worse it’s gonna be in the next 10 years when the technology gets even better.”

Translation? If artists don’t band together soon, the industry might get a whole lot messier.

“We Just Want a Fair Shake”

What Emanny is asking for isn’t outrageous. He’s not demanding yachts and mansions (though who wouldn’t take that?). All he—and countless other artists—want is fairness. “We ain’t greedy,” he says. “We just want a fair shake and a fair hand at the table.”

Picture this: You pour your heart and soul into creating an album. It’s raw, it’s real, it’s everything you dreamed it would be. The label loves it, they release it, and… crickets. You’re dropped. No promotion, no follow-through, just a pat on the back and a “thanks for playing.”

This isn’t some sob story—it’s real life for many artists. Emanny recalls a friend who faced this exact scenario. It’s stories like these that highlight just how badly the system needs an overhaul.

The Bigger Picture

Emanny isn’t just speaking for himself; he’s speaking for every artist who’s been chewed up and spit out by the machine. He’s pushing for something that could change the game for generations to come.

His rallying cry? Protect the art first. “You have nothing to push if you don’t have actual art first. So let’s protect that first. And then we’ll figure out the business.”

It’s a simple idea, but one that could shift the entire industry’s power dynamic. And honestly? It’s about time.

Final Thoughts

Emanny’s call for an artist union is more than just a pipe dream—it’s a necessary step toward equity and sustainability in a notoriously cutthroat business. Whether or not this vision becomes reality depends on whether artists are willing to unite and demand better.

In a world where technology and corporate interests are rapidly reshaping the creative landscape, Emanny’s message is clear: the time to act is now. Because if we don’t protect the creators, who will?

So, what do you think? Is the music industry ready for an artist union, or is this just another utopian dream? Drop your thoughts in the comments—this is a conversation worth having.

In a world where hip-hop often finds itself misunderstood or underappreciated in academic and cultural circles, Lupe Fiasco is breaking barriers and reshaping narratives. The Grammy-winning rapper, known for his intricate lyricism and socially conscious storytelling, has stepped into yet another groundbreaking role: a visiting professor at Johns Hopkins University's prestigious Peabody Institute. And honestly, this is exactly the kind of energy hip-hop needs right now.

Hip-Hop in Academia: A Long Time Coming

Let’s face it—hip-hop has long been deserving of a seat at the academic table. It’s more than beats and rhymes; it’s a powerful art form rooted in storytelling, innovation, and cultural expression. Lupe Fiasco’s new role at Peabody is a major win for the genre. As a professor, he’s set to teach students about the art and science of rap, merging his firsthand experience with the intellectual depth hip-hop deserves to be recognized for.

This isn’t Lupe’s first foray into academia, either. From 2020 to 2023, he served as a visiting scholar at none other than MIT, co-teaching a course called "Rap Theory and Practice." Yes, MIT. Not only did he explore the structure and function of rap, but he also collaborated on creating a computer rapper capable of improvising verses. That’s right—Lupe is out here blending hip-hop with cutting-edge technology.

Why This Matters

Lupe Fiasco’s transition from studio to classroom is a reflection of hip-hop’s evolution. For decades, the genre has been criticized for everything from its lyrics to its cultural impact, while its deeper layers often go overlooked. Having someone like Lupe—a lyricist’s lyricist with accolades to back it up—legitimize rap as an academic discipline is a major step forward.

Hip-hop has always been a form of education, from the streets to the global stage. It’s taught us about resilience, systemic issues, and the complexity of human experience. By bringing rap into institutions like Johns Hopkins and MIT, Lupe is ensuring that hip-hop gets the respect it deserves as both an art form and a scholarly pursuit.

Highlighting the Wins

This appointment is also a reminder that we, as a hip-hop community, need to do a better job of celebrating moments like this. Lupe’s work extends beyond music charts—he’s also the co-founder of the Society of Spoken Art (SOSA), an educational guild for rappers focused on the science of linguistics and semiotics. Add to that his collaboration with Google on TextFX, an AI tool designed to help creators explore the creative potential of language, which earned him three Webby Awards.

These aren’t just accolades; they’re proof of how versatile and impactful hip-hop can be. We’ve seen countless examples of artists using their platforms for change, but when those contributions intersect with academia and technology, they elevate the genre to a whole new level.

Why We Need More Lupe Fiascos

Hip-hop needs more pioneers like Lupe Fiasco—artists who aren’t afraid to step into new spaces and challenge the status quo. His journey from crafting classic albums like Food & Liquor to teaching the next generation about rap’s intricacies is inspiring. It shows that hip-hop isn’t just entertainment; it’s a culture, a discipline, and, yes, a science.

We should be amplifying these moments more often, making them front-page news, and using them as a blueprint for the future. Hip-hop is already global, but opportunities like these ensure it continues to grow in depth, complexity, and respect.

So here’s to Lupe Fiasco, the rap professor we didn’t know we needed—but absolutely do. Let’s hope this is just the beginning of hip-hop’s takeover in the academic world, because if one thing’s clear, it’s that the culture has a lot to teach—and a lot of room to grow.

What’s up, everybody? I’m Double A, the founder of Black Ronin Sounds, and I’m here to tell you the story of how this sample pack company came to be. Spoiler alert: it’s a tale of music, family, and leaving corporate America behind in favor of chasing my passion full time.

Let me give you a little background—I'm from the Windy City, Chicago, where I’ve been crafting beats, loops, and sounds for over a decade. Yeah, you read that right—over 15 years of making music. (I know, I’m getting old!) But during that time, I always had one foot in the music world and one foot in the corporate grind. For 10 years, I worked a 9-5 job, trying to juggle the two. But here’s the plot twist: in June 2024, I had a son, and everything changed. No, I’m not talking about changing diapers (although I do that too); I’m talking about how my son became the driving force behind everything I do now.

While all this was going on, life had a way of throwing me a curveball. My entire department at work was let go—just like that. No warning, no “Hey, here’s a new role for you.” They didn’t even offer us another position. So, after I spent years grinding at a job that I didn’t love, I got the wake-up call I needed. It was time to go all-in on my music.

And that’s when Black Ronin Sounds was born. It was a combination of hard work, inspiration, and the desire to provide something that I wish I had when I first started making beats—high-quality, royalty-free sample packs made by a producer who gets it. Whether you're creating Boom Bap, Trap, or R&B, I wanted to offer something that would help producers like YOU bring your sound to life.

Why the name "Black Ronin Sounds"? I’ll admit, it sounds a little mysterious, but here’s the thing: "Ronin" refers to a samurai without a master—someone who's carving their own path. And that’s exactly what I’m doing now. I’m creating my own path, no longer tied to a corporate desk job, but instead, building a legacy for my family. My son is my motivation now. Every beat I make, every loop I design, it’s all for him. I’m going full force into this, and I’m not going back to the 9-5 life. Trust me, corporate America had its chance. But now, it's all about the music.

When I started Black Ronin Sounds, my goal was simple: deliver top-quality, professional sounds to producers worldwide. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, my sample packs will give you the tools to make beats that stand out. From Boom Bap to Trap to R&B, I’ve got a little something for everyone. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill, recycled sounds you can find anywhere. These are curated with care and built from the ground up by someone who’s been there, done that, and is still grinding every single day.

So, why should you check out Black Ronin Sounds? Because I’m not just selling you a product—I’m selling you an experience. Every pack, every loop, every MIDI file is crafted with the kind of passion and dedication that only comes from doing what you love. I’m all about giving producers the tools they need to create, inspire, and succeed. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want to make their beats sound like they came straight out of a studio in Atlanta or Brooklyn? That’s what I’m here for—to make your music sound like the professionals.

As for me? Well, I’m excited to see where this journey takes me. But one thing’s for sure: I’m not looking back. I’ve found my calling, and I’m committed to helping producers around the globe do the same. I’ll be here, offering fresh and innovative sample packs, loops, and sounds—so stay tuned because this is just the beginning.

Thanks for reading and supporting the movement. If you’re ready to elevate your production game, check out our latest packs and join me on this journey to create something epic. I'll be posting blogs every Monday and Thursday so stay tuned for more content. Feel free to leave a comment below so we can stay connected. I'll always to my best to reply. Let’s make some noise together! Black Ronin Sounds—where quality and creativity meet.