King of Soul Music Festival Returns to Pay Tribute to Otis Redding and Recognize Jermaine Dupri's Musical Genius

Photo Courtesy So So Def Recordings

The Otis Redding Foundation is gearing up for the second edition of its annual King of Soul Music Festival, a two-day celebration honoring the legendary "King of Soul" on what would have been his 82nd birthday. The event, set to take place on September 8-9, aims to commemorate Redding's timeless musical legacy while raising vital funds for the Otis Redding Center of the Arts.

Ahead of the event, the foundation announced that it will be honoring So So Def Recordings founder Jermaine Dupri with the Otis & Zelma Redding Award of Respect. Karla Redding-Andrews, vice president, and executive director of the Otis Redding Foundation expressed enthusiasm for this year's festival, particularly in recognizing Dupri with the organization's highest honor.

"We have known JD since he was a young man visiting the Big ‘O’ Ranch with his Dad and are so proud of his remarkable contributions to the music industry as a songwriter, award-winning producer, DJ, CEO of So So Def, and entrepreneur," she said. "He was very close to my brother, Otis III, who passed away in April, and credits him with teaching him to make beats. JD aligns with Otis Redding’s spirit and the Foundation’s mission to inspire and empower young artists.”

For Dupri, the award holds profound significance, as it acknowledges the significant influence of Otis Redding III in shaping his skills in beat-making. In a humble response, Dupri expressed deep gratitude, recognizing the honor as a mutual appreciation between him and the Redding family.

"While I understand the family is honoring me, in my mind, I am also honoring them for all they have allowed me to do, see, and be a part of at a time when they didn't have to," said Dupri.

The festival will commence with "An Evening of Respect" concert at the Macon City Auditorium on September 8, featuring the Orchestra Noir. The performance will not only pay tribute to Otis Redding but also celebrate the rich cultural contributions of African American music pioneers across various genres, including classical, jazz, blues, hip-hop and R&B.

The festivities continue on September 9 with "The Big 'O' Homecoming Show & Dance" at the Capitol Theatre, boasting a diverse lineup of famed artists and musicians. Each act is set to deliver performances that honor the enduring musical legacy of Otis Redding.

Founded in 2007, the Otis Redding Foundation mission is to empower and inspire young individuals through innovative educational programs centered around music, writing and instrumentation. The foundation's annual Otis Music Camp, catered to ages 12-18, and Camp DREAM, designed for children aged 5-11, stand as shining examples of its commitment to nurturing aspiring talent

Redding achieved worldwide acclaim during the 1960s with timeless hits like "Sittin' On The Dock of the Bay" and "Try a Little Tenderness." Though tragically taken from the world in a plane crash in December 1967, his soulful voice and impassioned performances continue to inspire generations of artists.

For more information about the festival, ticket sales, and the Otis Redding Foundation, visit otisreddingfoundation.org.

Las Vegas Police Pursue New Leads with Search Warrant in Tupac Shakur Case

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department has executed a search warrant in Henderson, Nevada, as part of the ongoing Tupac Shakur homicide investigation.

The warrant's execution signifies a renewed focus on the case, which has captivated the music world since the legendary hip-hop artist's tragic death in 1996.

The LVMPD released a concise statement acknowledging the search warrant: "LVMPD can confirm a search warrant was served in Henderson, Nevada on July 17, 2023, as part of the ongoing Tupac Shakur homicide investigation. We will have no further comment at this time."

Shakur, also known as 2Pac, was shot multiple times in a drive-by shooting after stopping at a red light near the Las Vegas strip. Despite medical efforts, Shakur succumbed to his injuries one week later. The case remains unsolved, fueling numerous conspiracy theories.

The search warrant was executed at an undisclosed location in Henderson, Nevada, with the LVMPD providing limited details. Nevada's lack of a statute of limitations for homicide cases ensures that investigations can continue indefinitely.

The Tupac Amaru Shakur Foundation, overseen by the late rapper's sister, has not issued a statement regarding the recent developments.

Tupac Shakur's impact on the music industry is undeniable. He achieved five No. 1 albums, including "Me Against the World" in 1995 and "All Eyez on Me" in 1996. Tupac's influence extended beyond his record sales, as he became a symbol in the East Coast-West Coast rivalry, engaging in a public feud with Christopher Wallace, known as the Notorious B.I.G., who was fatally shot in 1997.

Recognized as one of the most influential and versatile rappers of all time, he received six Grammy nominations and was posthumously inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.

Chicken Wings Go Big Latto Style: Wingstop Debuts Exclusive Flavor Creation

Photo Courtesy Wingstop 

In a potentially mouthwatering partnership, fast-casual chicken brand Wingstop has teamed up with hip-hop artist Latto to introduce a unique culinary creation: Latto's Lemon Herb Remix. The dry rub, crafted by Latto herself alongside Wingstop's culinary team, is now available at all Wingstop locations across the nation for a limited time.

But the collaboration doesn't end with the new flavor. Wingstop and Latto are also unveiling The Latto Meal — a feast designed to bring Latto's preferred flavor experience to life. The Latto Meal features 21 classic wings, two dips and a large serving of seasoned fries.

"I had a blast crafting my very own Lemon Herb Remix flavor with Wingstop," Latto said in a statement announcing the partnership. "As a longtime fan of Wingstop, this collaboration is a dream come true. To enjoy The Latto Meal just the way I do, make sure to request all flats in my signature flavor and pair it with plenty of ranch. Trust me, it's so delicious that you'll find yourself fighting over the last wing, just like my sister Brook and I do."

This marks the artist's second collaboration with the brand. In 2022, she joined forces with Wingstop to support her Win Some Give Some Foundation's second annual Christmas in Clayco event, which aimed to provide local families in need with a Christmas dinner, gifts and essential items.

Big Holiday Energy🎄We teamed up with @Latto to give flavor to the kids of Clayco this season! pic.twitter.com/1Xi7PGp1Bh

— Wingstop (@wingstop) December 21, 2022

Latto, also known as Big Latto, has quickly risen to prominence in the music industry with her distinct style and captivating lyricism. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, she gained recognition after winning Jermaine Dupri's reality TV show "The Rap Game" in 2016. Since then, she has released a string of successful singles and mixtapes that have garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

Her debut album, "Queen of da Souf," made its impact in August 2020, introducing her unique style to the world. However, it was her second studio album, "777," that truly propelled her into the mainstream spotlight.

One of the standout tracks from "777" was "Big Energy," the album's lead single. The song made waves across the music industry, peaking at an impressive number three on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart.

To bring this collaboration to life, Wingstop has released a new commercial featuring Latto. The advertisement showcases Latto's infectious energy as she delivers hand-sauced and tossed Lemon Herb Remix wings alongside seasoned fries to a girls' night gathering, all while her hit song "Put It on Da Floor" provides the backdrop.

Anne Fischer, Chief Growth Officer of Wingstop, emphasized the shared passion for bold and flavorful experiences between the brand and Latto. "Wingstop fans are always seeking our unique taste, and Latto's emergence as a talented artist with her own distinct flavor perfectly aligns with our vision," Fischer explained. "We are thrilled to collaborate with Latto and present the extraordinary Lemon Herb Remix, inviting fans to savor the remarkable blend of Wingstop's expertise and Latto's creative touch."

The introduction of Latto's Lemon Herb Remix coincides with National Chicken Wing Day, an annual celebration of the beloved dish. To honor this occasion, Wingstop is offering a special treat to fans on Saturday, July 29. By using the code FREEWINGS during checkout on Wingstop.com or the app, customers can enjoy five free wings.