THE SRG-ILS GROUP (Virgin Music/UMG) Proudly Welcome Singer-Songwriter-Producer, KEITHIAN To It's Growing Label Roster and Releases (Performance Video) For The Infectious New Single, "MISSING OUT"…

New York, NY - Tuesday, April 15, 2025 - Excitement is in the air for music fans with the new single release, "MISSING OUT" from singer-songwriter and producer, KEITHIAN. The infectious new single is globally available now, via the new label partnership with the SRG-ILS Group (Virgin Music/Universal Music Group) imprint.

The SRG-ILS Group proudly welcomes their new signee', singer-songwriter and producer, KEITHIAN to it's growing roster. Keithian will be releasing his new LP, "Human x Sinner," later this summer under his deal with the label.

“I get a lot of music from new and established artists sent to me daily. Keithian stood out because he is an excellent writer and he comes from a deep musical background. His vocal delivery and phrasing is very original and I believe positions him well in the contemporary R&B marketplace. We look forward to great things from him with this new partnership," shares Claude Villani, CEO of SRG-ILS

“I’m incredibly proud and excited to join the SRG-ILS family. It’s an honor to be in the company of so many legendary and iconic artists on the roster. Claude and his team have been nothing but warm, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about supporting my vision. I’ve been waiting for the right partner to push the sound I call ‘Gumbo Music,’ and I truly believe this is it. I can’t wait for everyone to hear what’s coming next,” mentions Keithian.

"MISSING OUT" is the newly released single from Billboard chart-topping singer-songwriter-producer, KEITHIAN. The smash hit is already a Top 10 song on SiriusXM's Heart & Soul.

(PERFORMANCE VIDEO LINK) "MISSING OUT" by KEITHIAN

(AUDIO LINK) "MISSING OUT" by KEITHIAN

(DJ PACK) "MISSING OUT" by KEITHIAN

The infectious single was written by Keithian and produced by Olivier Delcros-Sainville. "Missing Out is a direct response to the attention that I got when I announced that I was going on tour, on the tour, and after the tour. I really engaged with my fans in every city to see and feel what they wanted from me. But as I continued on the journey I realized that I gained new fans that “jokingly” I felt missed the moment while I was in front of them. A Lot of them connected with me on social media and saved their favorite songs, but understandably didn't know who I was 'till after the show. But now I feel like they will be ready for what’s next," mentions Keithian.

Later this summer, Keithian, will be releasing his forthcoming anticipated LP, "Human x Sinner", the eight-song LP will be released under his new label partnership with the SRG-ILS Group (Virgin Music/Universal Music Group).

NEW MUSIC FRIDAY! (AUDIO LINK) Multi-Award Winning Singer-Songwriter-Producer, ERIC ROBERSON Releases New Single, "WHERE YOU GONNA GO" Featuring BJ THE CHICAGO KID…

R&B fans are in for a helluva treat for NEW MUSIC FRIDAYS!!! Pardon our excitement, but this week’s delivery comes courtesy of one our OUR favorite artists, and as an added bonus, features another of our favorites!

Below, find and enjoy the new single, "WHERE YOU GONNA GO" from multi-award winning singer-songwriter-producer, ERIC ROBERSON featuring Grammy nominated singer-songwriter, BJ THE CHICAGO KID. The beautifully-pended neo-soul tune, will be globally available on all streaming/download platforms on Friday, April 4th, 2025.

"WHERE YOU GONNA GO" was written by Eric Roberson, Bryan James Sledge and Rodney Jones and produced by Eric Roberson, and Rodney Jones for Art of Artez Productions. “Where You Gonna Go” is a song that explores simple extremes”, says Roberson. “It’s inspired by a question I ask myself to help the sunshine, even when facing storms.“ A lullaby hook blended with 70’s soul, Detroit hip hop, and 3/4 gospel undertones invite listeners to engage in everything from slow dancing with a partner to praying for them. The song’s mission is to enhance people’s self-worth and growth," he adds.

Being no stranger to driving emotions in the right direction, while blending soulful melodies with heartfelt lyrics that resonate with love, loss and reflection, Eric Roberson, continues to prove why he has been called the co-Captain of the Neo-soul movement for all of these years. Whether over the course of his seventeen beloved LPs (2001’s The Esoteric Movement to 2022’s Lessons) or through songwriting/production/vocal collaborations with the likes of Jill Scott, Dwele, Musiq Soulchild, Vivian Green, DJ Jazzy Jeff, DJ Spinna and others, fine-tuned R&B music ears have come to recognize and make a somewhat spiritual connection with his everyday relatable, multi-influenced vibe which mirrors their own lives and experiences. “It’s R&B and soul music, but I’m a hip-hop dude,” Eric replies, of his influences as it relates to his music’s appeal.

Indeed, nothing less than heartfelt gratitude for the blessing of being able to continue releasing music through his very own Blue Erro Soul Entertainment, as well as accolades which have included two successive Grammy nominations for “Best Urban/Alternative Performance” (for “A Tale of two” in 2010; “Still” in 2011), a BET J Virtual Award for “Underground Artist of the Year” (2008), being distinguished as the first independent artist to be nominated for a BET Award in 2007 and sold-out tours throughout the world is what makes Eric Roberson, "The Soul Man himself".

(AUDIO LINK) "WHERE YOU GONNA GO" by ERIC ROBERSON featuring BJ THE CHICAGO KID

(MP3 Format) "WHERE YOU GONNA GO" by ERIC ROBERSON featuring BJ THE CHICAGO KID

Multi-Award Winning Singer-Songwriter-Producer, ZACARDI CORTEZ Releases New Single, "WORK IT OUT FOR ME" And Readies The Release of Upcoming EP,"Ibhar: HE THAT IS CHOSEN (Chapter1)"…

It’s a great day of favor and reward, as the world is waking to the latest single release, "WORK IT OUT FOR ME" from multi-award winning singer-songwriter-producer, ZACARDI CORTEZ. The smash single, presented as an audio/piano session, is globally available now on all streaming/download platforms, via the ZetRoc Ent/BlackSmoke Music label imprint.

"WORK IT OUT FOR ME" was written by Travis Malloy and produced by Morgan Turner. “The song was submitted to me by my good friend Travis Malloy. When I heard it, I immediately locked in on it… I don’t know when he first wrote it, but I felt like the song was written just for me. I don’t even feel like I do it justice; it’s just a BIG song,” shares Zacardi Cortez.

"Work It Out For Me" is the lead single from Zacardi's anticipated forthcoming EP, "Ibhar: He That Is Chosen (Chapter 1)." The 7-song project, will globally release on May 9th, via the ZetRoc Ent./BlackSmoke label imprint. Taking the lead again on production, Zacardi crafts a masterful body of work, including features by Jekalyn Carr, Chrystal Rucker, Jason Nelson and Jonathan Nelson.

(AUDIO LINK) "WORK IT OUT FOR ME" by ZACARDI CORTEZ

(VIDEO LINK- PIANO SESSIONS Episode 1) "WORK IT OUT FOR ME" by ZACARDI CORTEZ

ZACARDI CORTEZ TOUR DATES

•4/11 Los Angeles, CA

•4/18 New Haven, CT

•5/2 Appleton, WI

•5/3 Cincinnati, OH I Hear Music Conference

•5/4 Little Rock, AR

•5/8 Salisbury, MD

•5/10 Baltimore, MD

•5/11 Atlanta, GA

•5/17 Houston, TX - Praise In the Park

•5/18 Phoenix, AZ

•5/25 Ft. Lauderdale, FL

ABOUT ZACARDI CORTEZ

One of the most talked about voices in gospel music belongs to Grammy Nominated, 3x Stellar and BMI Award-Winning artist Zacardi Cortez. Born in Houston, TX, Cortez hails from a singing family rooted in faith.

At the age of five he began singing in church and working in the Texas gospel circuit with his family, The Cortez Singers. At age 8, Pastor John P. Kee, adopted him as a spiritual son and began mentoring him. For a while, Cortez sang with Kee’s V.I.P. Mass Choir even singing a solo on the CD, Live at the Fellowship, in 2001. He later made guest appearances on recordings by Kurt Carr, Bishop Paul S. Morton and Pastor Gregg Patrick & the Bridge Project. During the early years of his career, Cortez’ big voice and spine-tingling vocal gymnastics distinguished James Fortune & FIYA’s radio smashes “Let Your Power Fall,” “I Believe” and “The Blood.”

Cortez’s current radio single “Work It Out For Me,” penned by Travis Malloy, rides the wave of his massive viral hit “Lord Do It Again” which has surpassed 35MIL streams. The current single comes from the May 9th ZetRoc Ent./BlackSmoke Music EP release of Ibhar: He That Is Chosen (Chap. 1). Taking the lead again on production, Zacardi crafts a masterful body of work, including features by Jekalyn Carr, Chrystal Rucker, Jason Nelson and Jonathan Nelson.

Zacardi Cortez has had four #1 Billboard Gospel Airplay singles; most recently “Lord Do It Again;” a song he penned for his album Imprint. His 2019 #1 Billboard single “You Don’t Know,” is also written by Cortez joined by James Fortune, composed by Marcus Calyen and produced by AyRon Lewis. Zacardi had a prior 12 week run at #1 on the same chart for the song “God Held Me (Together).” Other Top 10 radio hits include “YDIA,” “1-On-1,” and “One More Time,” and “I Made It Out” with the latter two songs with his Mentor, Pastor John P. Kee.

Zacardi Cortez has enjoyed appearances on major platforms including The Stellar Awards and Black Music Honors, along with releasing three Top 10 albums, The Introduction (2012), Reloaded (2014), Imprint: Live in Memphis (2022).

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Billboard Chart-topping Singer-Songwriter-Producer-Musician and Now, iHeart Radio Music Award Nominee For Best New Artist, JOSH X Releases Visuals For His New Song, "LIGHT"…

Billboard chart-topping singer-songwriter-producer and musician and now 2025 iHeart Radio Music Award nominee for (Best New Artist), JOSH X releases his beautiful and touching new single, "LIGHT." The song was written by Josh X and produced by TJ Da Beatman. "In the darkest moments, the light within us and the ones we love shine the brightest—it's not just about finding the light, it's about being the light for that special someone," shares Josh X. "LIGHT" is available on all steaming platforms now, via the KSR Group label imprint.

(VIDEO LINK) "LIGHT" by JOSH X

(AUDIO LINK) "LIGHT" by JOSH X

JOSH X was recently nominated as a 2025 iHeart Radio Music Award nominee in the Best New Artist (R&B) category at this years iHeart Radio Music Awards. "I am truly thankful and honored to be nominated as Best New Artist in the R&B category. It has been a longtime coming, but it feels amazing to be recognized. There are not enough words that can express my gratitude to all of the iHeart stations that have supported my music through the years. I thank them and I thank my KSR team for always holding me down," mentions Josh.

JOSH X is currently on "LIGHT" promotional tour in support of his newly released single. Upcoming cities includes; Washington, DC, Charlotte, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Baltimore, Houston and New Orleans.

This past summer, JOSH X secured his second Top 5 Billboard R&B song with the smash, "BREATHE." This was JOSH X's second Top 5 song on the Billboard charts in the last two years and his third Billboard R&B Top 10 song of his career. JOSH X continues to add finishing touches to his anticipated project, "THE X PROJECT", due this summer.

(VIDEO LINK) "LIGHT" by JOSH X

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ABOUT JOSH X

Chapter 1: The Early Years

Born as Joshua Exantus in the bustling borough of Queens, New York, Josh X's extraordinary journey into the world of music began with a humble upbringing. Raised by a single mother who worked tirelessly to provide for her five children, Josh X's deep love for music ignited at a remarkably young age. His mother recognized his innate talent and became a pivotal figure in nurturing his musical aspirations.

Chapter 2: A Pianist's Odyssey

At the tender age of six, Josh X's destiny took shape as he first laid hands on the keys of a piano. His innate talent and unwavering dedication quickly set him apart from his peers. His musical prowess was undeniable, leading to a life-changing opportunity—an esteemed scholarship to attend Juilliard's Summer Program. This early exposure to world-class music education would forever influence his artistic path.

Chapter 3: Inspirations and Collaborations

Josh X's artistry blossomed under the influence of musical legends like Stevie Wonder and Brian McKnight. His unique blend of R&B, hip-hop, and soul began to take form, catching the attention of the music industry's biggest names. As a proud signee of KSR Records, Josh X embarked on collaborations with industry heavyweights such as Cardi B, Nipsey Hussle, Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, and Swizz Beatz. Most notably, he became one of Stevie Wonder's cherished proteges.

Chapter 4: Billboard Triumph and Fan Favorites

Josh X's career reached new heights with the release of "I Miss You," a single that soared to Billboard's Top 20 R&B charts and garnered over half a million streams across various digital platforms. His signature song, "Heaven On My Mind," became an instant fan favorite, showcasing his incredible versatility as an artist. Collaborating with the illustrious Rick Ross on the hit single "All On Me" further solidified his presence in the music industry, with the music video accumulating over five million views.

Chapter 5: Unstoppable Talent

Even in the face of the global pandemic, Josh X's creative spirit remained undeterred. In the summer of 2021, he unleashed "Eskize Mwen," a street anthem featuring Haitian superstar BAKY, with the music video amassing over one million views on YouTube. The pandemic also saw Josh X stepping into the world of acting, where he portrayed the character Derrick in the Amazon Prime series, "Sister's Keeper." However, his enduring love for music continued to be his guiding star.

Chapter 6: Love Ballads and Chart-Topping Glory In November 2022, Josh X released "Forever Love," a soul-stirring love ballad that resonated with audiences worldwide. This marked another milestone in his career, showcasing his ability to capture the depth of human emotions through music. Additionally, "Love Takes Me Higher," released in April 2023, soared to the top 10 on the Billboard charts, cementing his status as a chart-topping artist. The lyric video for the same song accumulated an impressive 5 million views, a testament to his growing and devoted fan base.

Chapter 7: One Last Time and Beyond

In March 2023, Josh X continued to serenade his fans with "One Last Time," a heartfelt composition that tugged at the heartstrings of listeners. This marked another significant step in his musical evolution as he consistently delivered soulful and moving melodies. This biography chronicles the incredible odyssey of a young boy from Queens who, against all odds, transformed into a musical luminary. With each chapter of his life, Josh X continues to redefine the boundaries of his artistry, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music and entertainment.

In the summer of 2024, Josh X secured his second Billboard R&B Top 5 single with the song, "BREATHE." This accomplishment helped Josh celebrate his third Billboard R&B Top 10 single of his career. Earlier in 2025, Josh X was nominated as the 2025 iHeart Radio Music Award nominee in the Best New Artist R&B category. His anticipated EP, "The X Project" is schedule for a summer 2025 release.

Billboard Chart-topping Singer-Songwriter, J. BROWN Secures His 7th TOP 10 Billboard R&B Song With His Latest Single, "TRUE LOVE"…

Congratulations are in order, for rising star and Billboard chart-topping singer-songwriter, J. BROWN securing his 7th Billboard Top 10 single and his 8th Top 20 single on the Billboard R&B charts with his latest smash song, "TRUE LOVE."

"TRUE LOVE," the latest single by J. BROWN snags the 10th spot on this week's Billboard R&B charts, making it J. BROWN's 7th Top 10 Billboard R&B song in the last 5 years. This chart accomplishment also allows J. BROWN to celebrate his 8th Billboard Top 20 song on the charts.

"TRUE LOVE," a soul-stirring anthem of devotion and resilience. "Even if I'm the last man on the battlefield, I'll fight for True Love," J. Brown passionately declares. The track is a tribute to everyone who has ever stood tall for love—despite the odds, the wounds, and the battles. With gripping lyrics and undeniable passion, "True Love" reminds us all that love, in its purest form, is worth every struggle.

In 2024, J. BROWN scored (2) #1 Billboard R&B songs with "My Whole Heart" (spent three weeks at #1) and "If You Could See You," (which spent two weeks at #1). J. Brown recently released his highly anticipated third studio album, "JUST A MATTER OF TIME", to rave reviews. It is a masterful blend of soul, vulnerability, and raw emotion.

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(VIDEO LINK) "TRUE LOVE" by J. BROWN

J. Brown reflects on his creative journey for this project: "I wanted to create an album where I was in a space of total creativity. When Carvin Haggins GRAMMY® Award winning Producer & Songwriter Will Smith, Jill Scott, and Musiq Soulchild called and suggested we get back in the studio, we dove deep into honest conversations in music—something I feel is missing in today's R&B. Together with Carvin and his team, TheRing, we spent seven months crafting the right concepts, tackling real-life topics, and capturing the essence of love, pain, and growth." "Are You Still Mad" explores universal relationship tension with heartfelt authenticity. With lyrics like "It's been eight days, I gave space, I hate to fight with you, can we call a truce?" the song captures the ebb and flow of love's emotional battles, resonating with anyone who has ever navigated the complexities of connection.

J. Brown also teamed up with the extraordinary Elijah Blake, a longtime collaborator, and producer, Roark Bailey. He has produced hits for Saweetie, Summer Walker, Kanye West, and Chris Brown, who brought him the poignant track "MAH DEAR." With its nostalgic undertones reminiscent of Sam Cooke, the song is a heartfelt homage to timeless soul, delivering a fresh and familiar sound. The album's title, "Just A Matter Of Time", wasn't a calculated choice but an organic revelation. "As the project came together, it became clear that this was a story of the highs and lows of love—a man's journey of wanting, finding, and sometimes losing it. Naming the album Just A Matter Of Time just felt right, and I promise it will resonate deeply with listeners."

With this new album, J. Brown invites fans to witness his evolution—not just as an artist, but as a man. "Just A Matter Of Time" is a soulful and heartfelt chronicle of love, growth, and resilience, promising to captivate listeners and cement J. Brown's place as a leading voice in modern R&B. Prepare to be moved to the perfect blend of sound from the past greats of Philadelphia International Records and the Motown movement.

"JUST A MATTER OF TIME" (TRACKLISTING)

1. Luvalude

2. Mah Dear

3. If You Want It

4. More Than Just A Mood

5. Show Me Everything

6. My Baby (featuring M11SSION)

7. Forever

8. Madlude

9. Are You Still Mad

10. All The While

11. H.O.E. (Heaven On Earth)

12. True Love

13. Just A Matter of Time (featuring October London)

R&B Legend Gavyn Rhones Shares His Thoughts on Babyface’s Treatment at The Grammys, Expressing His Disappointment in the Ongoing Silencing of R&B Music..…..

February 03, 2025 - So; if you had an opportunity to watch the red carpet ceremonies for this past weekend’s Grammy Awards, you were witness to the unfortunate travesty with legendary R&B singer, producer, and executive Kenny Edmonds, know. ‘Round the world as Babyface! While being interviewed on the red carpet; which was swarming with celebrities in all areas, the singer was abruptly cut-off in answering a question when the two young AP reporters caught a glimpse of rising star Chappell Roan.

Fellow R&B legend Gavyn Rhones took a few moments to weigh in on the incident, for which the Associated Press has since released a statement and apology to Babyface following heavy criticism…

“It saddens me to see R&B continuously pushed further into the background. The genre still has a powerful voice, and whether you're a newcomer or a legend, you deserve to be heard. Babyface was the one who opened doors for me when I first started, and seeing an R&B icon set aside in favor of a new Pop artist only reinforces the ongoing disregard for R&B—as if it has no place in today’s culture dominated by Pop.

Babyface, we salute you and all that you've accomplished. As for that insincere apology on the red carpet by the AP—it wasn’t genuine, just an attempt to save face in my eyes.

Google Me, I stand with R&B”

Many people; from fans of Babyface to other industry professionals, shared the same sentiments!

Stay tuned to U.G. Digital Magazine for further coverage!

Grammy Award Winning Singer-Songwriter-Producer & Media Personality, RAHEEM DEVAUGHN Is Named New Host of The Legendary And Original Quiet Storm at WHUR 96.3

“The Love King of R&B and Soul, Raheem DeVaughn Takes the Helm of the Legendary Original Quiet Storm at WHUR 96.3”

(New York, NY - October 22, 2024)--What do you get when you combine R&B’s “Love King” with DC’s top-rated “Love Show?” The ultimate “Quiet Storm.” 96.3 WHUR proudly announces that beginning Thursday, October 17th, Grammy Award-winning National Recording Artist Raheem DeVaughn will be the new host of the legendary “Original Quiet Storm.” Tune in weekdays from 7:30 p.m. to 12 a.m. for an unforgettable musical experience.

The announcement comes as WHUR prepares to celebrate nearly 50 years of the iconic program, made popular by the late legendary Melvin Lindsey. Since 1976, the “Original Quiet Storm” on WHUR has guided listeners on a nightly journey of soulful slow jams and romantic melodies. “We are thrilled to launch this new chapter of the ‘Original Quiet Storm’ with one of the most talented creative artists in R&B, proudly representing Washington,” said Al Payne, Senior Director of Programming for WHUR.

Raheem DeVaughn is no stranger to radio. He has been hosting his own self-titled podcast since 2012. This evolution will further highlight his engaging hosting abilities and provide an opportunity for artists to connect with listeners in a unique and authentic way.  “I’m humbled and extremely excited about my partnership with the WHUR family.  The ‘Original Quiet Storm’ is a legacy brand and to be hand chosen as the new voice and face is an honor and a dream come true,” said DeVaughn.  

Working as the executive producer of the show will be WHUR Assistant Program and Music Director Traci LaTrelle. “I couldn’t be more excited to welcome Raheem DeVaughn. His soulful voice and deep connections to the DMV and R&B will bring a fresh intimate energy to the show, perfectly capturing the essence of the “Original Quiet Storm.”

WHUR's new fall weekday lineup is now set. Start your day with “The Steve Harvey Morning Show” from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m., followed by “Sunni and the City” from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. In the afternoon, tune in to the “Nina & Joe Show” with Joe Clair and Nina Brown from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Then, catch “The Daily Drum” with Harold Fisher from 7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Finally, unwind to “The Original Quiet Storm” hosted by “The Love King” Raheem DeVaughn from 7:30 p.m. to midnight.

LEGENDARY & ICONIC SINGER FRANKIE BEVERLY HAS DIED…

The world is in mourning; yet again, with the passing of legendary and iconic singer Frankie Beverly. Discovered by the late Marvin Gaye, Beverly; whose actual name was Howard Stanley Beverly, began releasing music as the lead singer of Maze in 1970.

Beverly’s death was confirmed by family via a posting on social media platform Instagram. Posted just an hour ago as of press time, more than 19.000 have already viewed and posted comments of respect and condolences.

Frankie Beverly and Maze have had numerous hits and classics throughout the past six decades; including “Before I Let Go”, “Joy And Pain”, “Happy Feelin’s”, and “Back In Stride”. They’ve been recognized several times over the last 15 years, beginning in 2006 with the Rhythm And Blues Foundation Pioneer Awards for Individual Artist, then in 2010 with the Trumpet Awards. They later were honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2012 BET Awards, and an NAACP Image Award in 2024.

Visit the Instagram profile @frankiebeverlyandmaze to read the full statement released by family. As always, we will report any updates as they are made available.