Author: UAA Staff

In the early ’90s, The Pharcyde emerged with a unique style in the gangsta rap-dominated West Coast scene, embracing a self-deprecating and quirky approach that set them apart. Their debut, Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde, flipped hip-hop conventions on their head, with hits like “Oh Shit,” “Otha Fish,” and “Passing Me By,” leading it to achieve platinum status and comparisons to De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest. Their second album, Labcabincalifornia, showcased their forward-thinking vision by featuring the young J Dilla and Spike Jonze’s direction for the “Drop” video. Decades later, The Pharcyde still tours, staying true to their original charm and artistry while continuing to influence new generations in hip-hop.

Scott Ialacci, professionally known as DJ Skribble, is a legendary figure in the music world, celebrated across generations for his dynamic presence and influential work in music and entertainment. Beginning his career with the Young Black Teenagers, he quickly rose to prominence by collaborating with Lauryn Hill and The Fugees. DJ Skribble’s longstanding partnerships with MTV, particularly on iconic programs like Spring Break and Total Request Live, alongside his contributions to Hot 97 FM, cemented his place in the industry. Known for his magnetic energy and skill, he became a familiar face and a trusted name in both hip-hop and electronic music scenes.

Versatile and visionary, DJ Skribble’s collaborations include an impressive roster of artists such as Taio Cruz, Britney Spears, and Tommy Lee. Over his three-decade career, he has continually explored and blended genres like hip-hop, house, and rock-electro to create unique, boundary-pushing music experiences. Beyond his work as a DJ, Skribble’s entrepreneurial spirit drives his ambition to support emerging talent and foster new concepts in music culture. His dedication to music and his ability to craft memorable live experiences have made him an enduring and celebrated figure in the industry.

Named by Entertainment Weekly as “a great magician” and Digital Journal as “the one to watch in magic,” Michael Grandinetti has captivated audiences worldwide with his innovative illusions. Performing on national and international television, in stadiums, arenas, casinos, and even at The White House, Michael has redefined magic’s mainstream appeal. His credits include starring roles on NBC’s The World’s Most Dangerous Magic II, five seasons of The CW’s Masters of Illusion, and performances on The Today Show, Entertainment Tonight, and SportsCenter. Known for blending magic with dynamic entertainment, he’s also performed for Fortune 500 companies, symphony orchestras, and major sporting events, creating unforgettable experiences.

Michael’s live shows, The Magic of Michael Grandinetti LIVE, showcase his signature illusions, from levitation and teleportation to thrilling escapes, brought to life for modern audiences. His interactive performances draw the audience into the experience, transforming legendary magic into visual, astonishing acts that blur the line between illusion and reality. Recognized for his unique style and high-energy presentations, Michael is dedicated to providing one-of-a-kind experiences that stay with audiences long after the show ends.

HOTEL CALIFORNIA “A Salute to the Eagles” was founded to fill the void left by the Eagles’ disbandment in 1982. Comprised of five highly skilled music industry professionals, the band faithfully reproduces the Eagles’ studio sound while delivering a high-energy show that bridges rock, R&B, and country. Their performances bring timeless hits like “Take it Easy,” “Heartache Tonight,” and “Hotel California” to life, along with select solo works by Don Henley, Glen Frey, and Joe Walsh, captivating audiences across generations.

Known for their exceptional talent and marquis appeal, HOTEL CALIFORNIA has become one of the most sought-after tribute acts worldwide, performing 150–200 high-profile events annually. From corporate functions and charity benefits to outdoor festivals, they consistently headline main stages and open for notable artists. This acclaimed group delivers the magic of the Eagles’ music in a modern, thrilling format that resonates with fans of all ages.

Russell Crowe, Rome’s 2022 “Ambassador to the World” and GQ’s “Global Icon,” is back in the U.S. with his music ensemble, the “Indoor Garden Party,” an evolving collective of musicians and storytellers. The show, which he describes as “an event, a band, a happening,” began in a London pub in 2009 and has since taken on a free-spirited, festival-like nature, highlighting The Gentlemen Barbers, a band he’s refined over four years. Crowe and longtime musical collaborators, some going back 30 years, deliver a mix of storytelling songs and lively grooves, promising an unforgettable night.

Afroman’s musical journey began in the eighth grade, when he started recording homemade songs inspired by his life experiences, such as his frustrations with a teacher who had him expelled for sagging his pants. His song about her quickly became popular among students and teachers alike, selling hundreds of copies and solidifying his presence in the school community despite his expulsion. Early on, Afroman also showcased his musical skills by performing drums and guitar in his church. In 1998, he released his debut album My Fro-losophy and later moved to Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where he collaborated with drummer Jody Stallone, keyboardist/bassist Darrell Havard, and producer Tim Ramenofsky (Headfridge). Together, they released Because I Got High in 2000, a song that humorously reflects the effects of marijuana on daily tasks and gained widespread attention after its mention on The Howard Stern Show.

Following the success of Because I Got High—which earned a Grammy nomination and appeared in films like Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back—Afroman joined Cypress Hill’s “Smoke Out” festival and signed a six-album deal with Universal Records, who released The Good Times in 2001. In 2004, he shifted to independently releasing music online, including the satirical holiday album Jobe Bells. Over the years, he continued making music, participating in events such as the 2010 Gathering of the Juggalos. In 2014, Afroman remixed Because I Got High to advocate for marijuana legalization. Recently, in January 2021, he signed with the label Cosmic Wire, owned by artist/producer BLAZAR, and released the single WHOLEthing as a preview of his upcoming album.

David Benoit, a GRAMMY®-nominated pianist, composer, and arranger, is regarded as one of the founding figures of contemporary jazz. Over his four-decade career, he has released 41 solo albums, including notable works like Freedom at Midnight (1987) and Every Step of the Way (1988). His compositions have earned him three GRAMMY® nominations, including Best Contemporary Jazz Performance, Best Large Ensemble Performance, and Best Instrumental Composition.

Benoit has collaborated with artists such as Patti Austin, Dave Koz, and Brian McKnight, and composed for film and television, notably for The Peanuts TV specials and films like The Stars Fell on Henrietta. A respected conductor, he has led symphonies worldwide, including the LA Philharmonic and London Symphony Orchestra. Benoit also hosts a radio show on KKJZ 88.1 FM and serves as Music Director and Conductor for the Asia America Symphony Association.

Pepa (Sandra Denton) is one half of the iconic American hip hop duo Salt-N-Pepa, formed in 1985 in New York City. Alongside Salt (Cheryl James), Pepa made history as part of the first female rap group to achieve gold and platinum status with their debut album Hot, Cool & Vicious (1986), featuring the hit single “Push It.” The duo’s success continued with albums like A Salt with a Deadly Pepa (1988) and Blacks’ Magic (1990), which produced hits like “Expression” and “Let’s Talk About Sex.” In 1993, Salt-N-Pepa’s album Very Necessary sold over 7 million copies, making it the highest-selling rap album by a female act at the time, with hits like “Shoop” and “Whatta Man.” Pepa’s trailblazing contributions to hip hop helped Salt-N-Pepa win a Grammy Award in 1995, solidifying their legacy as “The First Ladies of Rap.”