DJ Chuck T The #1 Music Executive In The Carolinas

DJ Chuck T is a revered pioneer and trailblazer in the Carolina Hip-Hop music scene. Starting his musical journey in 1998 as a recording artist under the name Priest, he made waves with his debut album “843 Baller,” quickly gaining notoriety in South Carolina. Before hanging up his mic in 2001, DJ Chuck T collaborated with notable Southern artists such as Pastor Troy and Three Six Mafia, and even caught the attention of Epic Records A&R Joe Cerini. 

Transitioning from the mic, DJ Chuck T explored producing, engineering, and artist management for two years before landing a role as a production assistant at Charleston’s Hot 98 radio station. It was here that he discovered his passion for DJing. Investing in a pair of turntables, he immersed himself in the art, creating mixtapes, DJing parties, and earning spots on BET’s Rap City and MTV’s Mixtape Mondays. His mixtapes have been featured in the The Source Magazine, The Foundation Magazine, XXL Magazine, and Ozone Magazine.

Since 2003, DJ Chuck T has garnered over 35 awards for his DJing prowess. His “Down South Slangin’” and “Sexxxplicit R&B” mixtape series is a cornerstone of Southern Hip-Hop, solidifying his legacy. Even after 20+ years in the industry, DJ Chuck T continues to actively DJ and break new records. He’s played a pivotal role in helping artists such as DaBaby, Young Dolph, Yung Joc, Gorilla Zoe, Plies, Boyz-N-Da Hood, and Trey Songz go from being local superstars to multi-platinum superstars.

In 2019, he founded The Foundation Of Music, an initiative dedicated to educating aspiring artists about the music business. He travels across the Southeast, independently and within schools and colleges, to teach his class. In 2021, DJ Chuck T made history by organizing and hosting the NBA's first-ever Music Industry Night for the Charlotte Hornets, a highly successful event that continues to thrive.
In 2023, DJ Chuck T was inducted into the "Who's Who in Black Charlotte" Hall of Fame and was selected to be a judge for the BET Awards and BET Hip-Hop Awards. In 2024, he won the highly coveted "#1 DJ In The South" award at the Southern Entertainment Awards and “DJ Of The Year” at the Southern Plug Music Awards. DJ Chuck T also sits on the music industry and communications mentors board at two of the most prestigious Historically Black Colleges in the Carolinas, Livingstone College and Benedict College. DJ Chuck T's impact on the music industry remains profound, as he continues to innovate and inspire.

DJ Chuck T aka "The Most Powerful Man In Carolina Music"

- 9x Southern Entertainment Award Winner

- 5x South Carolina Music Award Winner

- 3x Southern Plug Music Award Winner

- 2x Queen City Award Winner (Best DJ & Best Mixtape DJ)

- 2x Gainesville Music Summit Award Winner

- 2x SMES Award Winner

- 3x Geechee One Magazine Award Winner

- Voted MTV's Best Mixtape DJ of 2006 

- Featured in The Source, Vibe, XXL, and The NY Times

Log on now to WWW.DJCHUCKT.COM

Miya Guggs Is The Industry's Newest Big Superstar

Unapologetic and focused are two words that describe singer and songwriter Miya Guggs. The qualities that allowed her to be an elite athlete on the basketball court now help the independent artist launch her music career. A woman of many gifts, Miya’s talents on the hardwood allowed her to earn a scholarship to her hometown college basketball team, Kansas City (Kansas) Community College. Nobody would have blamed Miya if she had pursued her hoop dreams to their logical conclusion – a college education, maybe attracting the attention of a Division One school and becoming a Lady Jayhawk and achieving the ultimate dream of being drafted into the WNBA. Miya, however had a different dream. It’s a dream that Miya first spoke into existence during late nights in the presence of her aunt, Denise. “We would sit there and watch music videos because me and her are night owls,” Miya recalled. “We would be up watching music videos, and I remember watching those videos and I was like, ‘I want to do that.” This is a part of the story where Auntee Denise tries to talk sense into the child by telling her about the steep odds she faces in trying to make it in the music business or describing the cautionary tales of heartache that befell those tried to make it in the industry and failed. However, Miya’s aunt encouraged her niece to follow her dream. “She was like, you can do this, and I was on my way,” Miya said. The singer and songwriter also received support from her parents to pursue the music that constantly played in her head and her heart – even when Miya was on the court. “It’s crazy because during halftime I would just think about music,” she recalled. “It was a hard decision to leave basketball because I do enjoy the game, but school and basketball kind of wore me down.”With the encouragement from those who cared for her the most, Miya was all in. “A lot of people expected me to have a back-up plan, but I don’t really believe in that,” she noted. “I’m just going to keep going and it was nice to hear encouragement, especially at a young age, because most people will tell kids to be more realistic. “I appreciate what my auntee told me and I feel like the universe spoke through her.” So, Miya decided to devote efforts to pursing her passion. The results can now be heard in a series of singles that showcases a vocal her range and diversity that allow her to move from sultry ballads like “Situationships,” to conversational rapid fire, hip-hop inspired delivery of “Bad Boy,” a club banger where Miya playfully and seductively where she lets a roughneck guy know that she can be his ride and die chic. “Bad Boy” pairs Miya with Richard Wingo, member of the legendary R&B group Jagged Edge. That track gave Miya an opportunity to work artist who made music that was a part of her mom and aunt’s soundtrack. “It was a very nostalgic feeling and I really enjoyed working with him,” Miya recalled. “He’s funny and a very talented person. And yeah, my mom and my aunt listened to Jagged Edge a lot, so they were really excited for me.” “Situationships,” Miya’s latest single, provides insight into her songwriting process. The song tells the story of a person trying to manage emotions and expectations in a relationship.“Iwas on Twitter one day and one of the topics that was really trending was situationships, and I was like I can talk about that because I’ve experienced that,” she recalled. “So I kind of put my little take on it – my little two cents and it became something really cool. “It was how I was feeling in that moment and it came out really great.” Miya takes her next step in her career when her EP, “Patterns,” drops later this year. “I’m excited for that and I am putting the finishing touches on it.” The EP will be a mix of new tracks and tunes from her existing catalog. She said that the album’s title tells a story. “It actually refers to the patterns in relationships that I’ve seen that are just negative and I am kind of making people aware of that.” That mindset of using music to seek truth shows that Miya is following a path laid down by singers like Amy Winehouse, SZA and Jazmine Sullivan. “All of those women are unapologetically themselves and that is what draws me toward them, and that is what inspires me to be unapologetically myself,” she said. “That is what it’s all about. “Following your own dreams and being an inspiration to others to achieve their dreams. The same thing that those artists do for me, I want to do for others.”

Artist Spotlite:

 

Lil Heavn is an american rapper and singer from Topeka, KS. Formally known as "Tione Jackson" Lil Heavns energy makes them a standout performer. Their sound is lively, quintessential hip-hop. From the beginning of their set, their volume and motion made their uniquely popular with the crowd. Lil Heavn performs with a spackling of backup instrumentalists, soundboard operators, and others. Their talent and raw energy electrifies the crowds from on stage. They are apart of both collectives G.O.T.H. GVNG & Vivid Zebra. 

Podcast Spotlite: The Core Queen Podcast

A podcast focused on the healing side of childhood trauma and relationships in the black community. Talking sh*t and getting fit, physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally. The Core Queen Podcast where we get to the CORE of your story, the CORE of your brand, and the CORE of the issues! The Core Queen Podcast Studios offers spaces for content creators to record, or to livestream their podcast. Whether you are an aspiring creator or you are a seasoned vet, the Core Queen Podcast Studios is here to serve you! The Core Queen Podcast Studios is a full service rental space with options to fit all content creator needs. Review our services and book your podcast time slot today. We are here to provide all of your content creator needs. Make sure you subscribe to the YouTube Channel and turn on the notifications.

MEET SC’S #1 RADIO BABE TAY SIMONE

Tay Simone is a Charleston SC native and Goose Creek High School Alumni. What you can easily observe and absorb from her is the bubble and excitement in her personality. She brings her ecstatic style and enthusiasm to the airwaves of Z93 JAMZ as the host of Saturdays nights. Tay Simone is a creative maven and versatile with a multitalented resume. She has been heard and voice overed many brand commercials televised and radio produced along with appearing in other branded content all over the internet. She has also worked with many big fish in the industry with film and photography, while also joining some tours of house-hold names whether hosting, interviewing, filming, or event coordinating. Tay Simone’s media career began in 2019 with a monetized YouTube channel which led to the radio career that began in 2021 as a radio personality at one of Charleston’s non-profit radio stations. She elevated to her Saturday night show on Z93 JAMZ in 2024 and excited to elevate with more to come. Spend your Saturday nights with Tay Simone! Tay Simone is not just here to hype you up but to also teach, encourage, and enlighten by providing gemstones, knowledge, and even shining light on our honor roll students all while playing your favorite tunes and some entertainment news. On Air: Weekends 7pm-12am.

Q. Hey everyone it’s ya boy Darren Southern Plug Brown, here with a mega Southern Plug Exclusive. Introducing to some, Tay Simone. So, tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do exactly. 

A. Tay Simone. I am a multimedia personality and radio personality for Z93 JamzFM radio in Charleston SC airing every Saturday night at 7pm. You can find me at some of your favorite festivals or concerts hyping the crowd up from the stage as your Emcee. But it doesn't just stop there, you may also find me hyping up the kids of the community at elementary schools and other children events. 

Q. So, what inspired you to start your journey in the radio game? 

A. I started my journey just having fun on YouTube, creating viral videos. Once I realized I could make income just genuinely "being myself" I searched for more ways to make my hobby into a career. 

Q. How and when did you coin your stage name and how do you feel that title fits you? 

A. Before calling myself Tay Simone I was referred to as Tavinci (ultimately because I considered myself an artist such as Da Vinci.) After maturing to radio I wanted to be perceived authentically and become more of myself so it was super easy just to go by my first and middle name which brought my stage name to Tay Simone in year 2021. 

Q. Do you have any upcoming projects or announcements to make? 

A. This year I will be dropping a new project that I will not be spilling any details on just yet, but keep up with me on social media so you don't miss out! Also, planning more kid friendly events this year, be on the lookout for a candy and costume event this October for the community of Charleston. 

Q. What would you say is the quote on quote secret recipe for your success? 

A. My secret recipe to my success would include a few ingredients but most importantly RESILIENCE, CONFIDENCE, AND CONSISTENCY! 

Q. What was your favorite part about hosting on the radio? 

A. My favorite part about working in radio and media is meeting so many wonderfiul people who play gigantic roles that you would often overlook. Networking and becoming friends or business partners with these role models definetly keep me motivated and knowing they will contribute to what I create is even more heart warming. 

Q. Name a time where you've faced adversity in your radio career? And, what impact did it have on you or your career? 

A. In every career you will eventually receive some type of criticism or even rejection. It was almost discouraging in the beginning being super ready to begin my own radio show with a bigger station, but I kept hearing from the other talents and even the program director that I wasn't ready. It only made me practice and show up more and of course prove everyone wrong. 

Q. Is there something in specific that you want people to know about you or your art? 

A. I would like people to know that even though I speak about things that are relatable, motivational, and even some gossip, I initially feel like I have this voice and platform to teach and wake up our community that is still asleep and allowing the world to live life for them. I would eventually like to reach those people and create an army of knowledgable people who will also teach the generations to come. 

Q. Okay, so its no secertyou are a very attractive person. Our men readers would like to know, are you boo'd up or what? If so spilLthe tea. Who's the lucky guy? 

A. I love my man, my man, my man! And that's all I'm going to say. Q. How do you juggle your personal life and professional life? A. Juggling the personal and professional life isn't hard at all when you love what you do for work and make it more personal. I honestly have times where I can't tell the difference between the two. 

Q. What advice would you give those wanting to start their journey in your field? 

A. Anyone interested in being on stages, on radio, or even helping kids and families in the community should just start. Find someone who you could consider a mentor and allow your wings to grow. Take that risk and do not be afraid of failure. 

Q. Who would you say is your biggest inspiration and why? 

A. I am inspired by all success black women. Generational wealth is my biggest inspiration. 

Q. Ok we do this every interview! What creatives would you absolutely die to work with? 

A. OMG! Like please put me in the same room with Pretty Vee and I got the rest! 

Q. Tell our readers how they can book you and connect with you on the world wide web and on the socials. 

A. Stay updated with me on my socials TAY SIMONE (facebook) @TAYSIMONEE (instagram) Whatever you would like to inquiry about your upcoming event or project email INQUIRY.TAYSIMONE@GMAIL.COM

Get To Know Opus & The Frequencies

 

Known for their energetic live shows, Opus & The Frequencies have earned a reputation as a must-see Columbia act. This reputation has seen them playing small clubs and bars in support of local or touring regional acts, as well as gracing bigger stages like the St. Pats Festival in Five Points, Columbia Food and Wine Festival’s Concert On The Runway, Solfest Rollfest, and USC legacy events (Tiger Burn, First Night Carolina) in support of bands like Hippo Campus, Illiterate Light, The Blue Dogs, Flipturn, lighthearted and Brook and The Bluff to name a few. The Frequencies harness an eclectic blend of influences— funk, indie rock, Latin grooves, and pop sensibilities—converging into a distinctive sound. This sonic alchemy flourishes whether they take the stage as a four-piece or an expansive ten-piece ensemble. The band found time between extensive gigging to record and release their first EP release, “You’re Trash Kid,” in early 2023. A largely self-recorded labor of love, the EP served as a crucible for their growth, offering invaluable insights into the intricacies of the recording process. Armed with this newfound wisdom, Opus & The Frequencies are currently in the process of recording "Euphoria" and "It's Time," two dancey funk-fueled singles primed for release in early 2024.

Southern Girl of the Month: Lil Cassy

Artist Lil Cassy broke into the industry as a video model and DJ in NYC under the name Casci Sade and was featured in major music videos alongside 50 cent, Lloyd Banks, Juelz Santana, Method man and various other established artist. She is a published print model with numerous publications and magazines. Smooth, Source, Feds, & now Southern Plug Magazine. She has since relocated to NC and transitioned into rapping with a diverse style that is a mix of New York swag with a bit of southern flavor. 

Q. Hey everyone it’s yaboy Darren Southern Plug Brown, here with a mega Southern Plug Exclusive. Introducing to some, Lil Cassy. So, tell our readers that may not be familiar with you or your work just who you are and what it is that you do exactly.

A. Hey what’s going on my name is Lil Cassy, I’m a rapper from Fayetteville, NC. 

Q. So, what inspired you to start your journey in the world of modeling and music? 

A. I’ve always had a love for music since I was young, I used to enter all the talent shows and programs from Elementary school on up, any opportunity to showcase my talent. I moved to NYC out of high school and was a very successful video vixen and magazine model, featured in numerous major publications as well as music videos with major recording artists, such a 50 cent, Rick Ross, method man, Trey songs, Lloyd banks, juelz Santana, Maino. 

Q. What was your favorite part about what you do? 

A. I love creating, just watching my ideas come to life is what I love, and I also love performing and interacting with a crowd or audience. 

Q. Name a time where you've faced adversity in your career? And, what impact did it have on you or your career? 

A. When I caught a case and had to go to prison, it was a big turning point in my life. Being able to finally do music again is a blessing.

Q. How and when did you coin your stage name and how do you feel that title fits you? 

A. Well it’s my name, I’m kind of small, so lil is where I got that from! But I’m a BIG presence! 

Q. Do you have any upcoming projects or announcements to make? 

A.I do have an EP dropping on NOV 29th, I’ve been working diligently on that. I’m excited for everyone to hear it! 

Q. What would you say is the quote on quote secret recipe for your success? 

A. I would say my resilience! Life has definitely threw me some curve balls! But I always bounce back, bigger and better.

Q. Is there something in specific that you want people to know about you or your art? 

A. I want people to know that I put my heart in everything I do. I try to stay true to myself and also just really have fun with it. Life is short. Sometimes you have to slow down and enjoy the view. 

Q. Okay, so its no secert you are a very attractive person. Our men readers would like to know, are you boo'd up or what? If so spilt the tea. Who's the lucky guy? 

A. Lol, I’m blushing, thank you for that. I would have to say. My lips are sealed. Shhhhhaha! 

Q. How do you juggle your personal life and professional life? 

A. I sometimes refer to myself as superwoman. I’m literally always in a few places all at once. I honestly don’t know how I do it, but it gets done! 

Q. What advice would you give those wanting to start their journey in your field? 

A. Never take no for an answer. You have to be your biggest cheerleader. Just keep going! One door closes then jump out the window! Let nothing stop you or sway you! 

Q. Who would you say is your biggest inspiration and why? 

A. My mother is one of my biggest inspirations, she used to take me to all my talent shows and make all my costumes and just put up with a lot for me to chase my dreams. I’m inspired by her life, her background and her resilience and tenacity.

Q. Ok we do this every interview! What creatives would you absolutely die to work with? 

A. I would love to work with Missy Elliott, Pharrell, Morgan Wallen, Cardi B, Ariana Grande 

Q. Tell our readers how they can book you and connect with you on the world wide web and on the socials. 

A. You can book me through my management casadripllc@gmail.com or wildoutent@gmail.com. My instagram is @cassaleynaaa. I do answer dms about booking inquiries. And I appreciate you guys interviewing me. It’s been a pleasure

SC Has A Superstar In Trap Dickey

South Carolina native Trap Dickey is buzzing via his freestyles on On The Radar Radio and 4 Shooters Only. With a story rooted in tragedy and triumph, Dickey is a product of the South Carolina streets he was raised on. Surviving street life and gun violence, Dickey is here to tell the tale of resilience. He uses his music to give a glimpse into his world and his own stories. His most recent releases include “I35”, “No Apologies,” and “Keep Forgetting” ft. Hardaway, and his recent release, “Blue Devils,” off his latest project ‘Trap Or Die.’ With more new music and visuals on the way, Trap Dickey is sure to prove why he is a 2024 Artist To Watch.

The Award Winning Finesse Band

Finesse Band is a sevenmember dance/party band from Columbia, SC that is comprised of the top musicians, vocalists, and entertainers in South Carolina and Georgia. They specialize in performing at Weddings, Corporate events, festivals, Concerts, and anywhere that people want to have a great time groovin' with great musical and entertainment! The Finesse band’s audience interaction at events is second to none with world class male and female front singers as well as a strong compliment of background vocalists. In addition to a broad selection of high

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“The Finesse band’s audience interaction at events is second to none with world class male and female front singers as well as a strong compliment of background vocalists”

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energy dance music, they can also provide a tasteful and classy Jazz set when requested. Finesse includes a DJ on all jobs who is truly a large part in each and every performance. He can provide recorded music before the band begins and keep the party going with the latest dance music and requests on any band breaks. Over the years, Finesse has become one of the Carolina's most requested bands for Weddings and Corporate parties. For a night of fun entertainment and dancing, you need to invite the Finesse Band to your next event! breaks. Over the years, Finesse has become one of the Carolina's most requested bands for Weddings and Corporate parties. For a night of fun entertainment and dancing, you need to invite the Finesse Band to your next event!

KARINA J IS THE NEW GREAT SC HOPE!

 

Karina J, a Columbia, SC native, has been passionate about music since childhood. Her musical journey began at just 11 years old, singing in choirs and performing in school choruses. This early exposure to music fueled her creativity and led her to start writing and recording her own songs before finishing high school. After high school, Karina took a different path and joined the military, where she continued to cultivate her love for music. It wasn’t until she retired from the service that she fully dedicated herself to her craft, hitting the studio and finding her unique voice. Karina J’s big break came when she caught a buzz with a viral moment—her standout performance in the “Women Run the World” Cypher went viral on TikTok, showcasing her skills and gaining her a massive following. Since then, Karina J has accumulated over 2 million streams, and her popularity continues to rise. With a powerful voice and a dedication to inspiring women everywhere, Karina J is a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.

Artist Spotlite: Dominique Hammons

Dominique Hammons is a young, dynamic violinist from Houston, Texas, known for his vibrant contemporary and jazz performances. He began playing classical violin at the tender age of 8. At this time his passion for music developed and his pursuit to achieve artistic excellence took off. Hammons attended the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, where he was a member of the school orchestra program for four years. This experience laid the foundation for him to gain the knowledge and direction needed to get on the path to musical greatness. Following high school, Hammons pursued higher education at the University of Oklahoma in Norman. He graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music Performance, with a jazz emphasis. Dominique Hammons exceptional talent has not gone unnoticed. He’s received numerous awards and recognition throughout his musical journey. One notable achievement includes winning the Houston Symphony’s prestigious “Young Artist Competition,” an honor that granted him the opportunity to showcase his skills on stage with the renowned orchestra. Additionally, he has excelled as a participant in NAACP “Actso” competitions, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the music world. Hammons has garnered attention for his unique ability to reimagine popular hits through the power of his violin. His covers of chart-topping songs, such as Chris Brown ft. Young Thug’s “Go Crazy,” TLC’s “No Scrubs,” NLE Choppa’s “Walk Em’ Down, and Calvin Harris x The Weeknd’s “Over Now,” have captivated audiences and showcased his versatility as a musician. His innovative arrangements and skillful performance adds a fresh and dynamic twist to these beloved tracks, breathing new life into the melodies. Hammons onstage presence is best described as charismatic and energetic. His passion for music radiates through every note he plays leaving an indelible mark on the listener’s heart. His interpretations merge the realms of contemporary and jazz music, creating a unique experience. With his distinctive artistic vision, Hammons seamlessly blends genres, showcasing the power and versatility of the violin as a vehicle for emotional expression. As Dominique Hammons continues to make waves in the music world, he remains committed to inspiring younger generations. In addition to his impressive performances, he actively engages in mentoring and educating aspiring musicians by sharing his knowledge and passion for the violin. Through teaching and community outreach, Hammons strives to ignite a love for music and empower others to pursue their own artistic dreams. For bookings and press, contact She L Robinson, Sr. Publicist, Robinson Squared LLC

The Self Proclaimed Greatest of All Time Omar Cunningham

Omar Cunningham has found his "swag" as an award-winning and highly sought after artist, songwriter and producer. His smooth, sensual, and strong vocals have gained him national recognition, with countless music bloggers referring to him as "The R. Kelly of the South". His backgrounds are silky and his lyrics are real. As an independent Soul & R&B artist, some of his biggest hits have become labeled "Southern Soul Classics", including: "Baby, Don't Leave", "Check to Check", "Hell At The House", "Beauty Shop", and "I'm In Love With A Married Woman." In 2020, he released his latest album,"Certified", which includes the soulful, head-bobbing tracks, "I Feel Like Making", "Call Me Daddy", and "On My Way to Memphis". Omar is also a voting member of The Recording Academy (Grammy Awards). Some may consider him as being the man with the golden pen, with colleagues commonly referring to him as "Omar The Hitmaker". Omar has been quietly behind the scenes writing songs for many of today's top artists. Omar was responsible for Billboard charting hits, "Put It On Me " by West Love and the hit single, "We Both Grown" by Willie Clayton who was joined by on the track by Grammy award winning artist, Dave Hollister. This song reached #23 on Billboard's Adult R & B charts. Omar also is the mastermind producer and is featured on the Southern Soul Juke Joint Sensation, "The Boots Song" with Big Yayo. He also wrote the title track for Mel Waiter's 2010 album, "I Ain't Gone Do It". Omar was also tapped to write songs for music powerhouses, Lenny Williams and Shirley Brown's, "I Don't Wanna Leave". He also played a major role in boosting Karen Wolfe's career by writing her two award winning hits titled "Man Enough" and "Stuttering". Omar also wrote the #1 soul song, as reported by the Soul and Blues Report, for Vick Allen titled "If He Can Beat Me Rocking".

Get To Know Death Ray Robin

Death Ray Robin is an Alt-R&B act featuring Black-Korean vocalist Desirée Richardson and a rotating cast of instrumentalists from Columbia, SC. Best known for her mellifluous soprano and straightforward yet poetic pop sensibilities, Richardson vacillates between genres, writing about themes of self-preservation, identity, revenge, forgiveness, and hope