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Universal Attractions Agency Launches Corporate Events Division

 

Universal Attractions Agency (UAA) has announced the formal launch of its Corporate Events Department, a dedicated division designed to meet the growing demand from brands and organizations seeking world-class talent for corporate functions, private events, and branded experiences. UAA partner Adam Zagor, based out of the New York office, will oversee department operations and strategic relationships.

UAA has a long history of collaborating with brands, companies, and private clients to provide exceptional talent, including renowned artists such as Flo Rida, TLC, The I Love the 90’s Tour, Vanilla Ice, Rick Ross, MC Hammer, and Doug E. Fresh, DJ Jazzy Jeff, among many others.

The newly minted dedicated division will see Adam spearheading a more structured approach that positions Universal Attractions Agency as a leader in experiential entertainment for brands.

“For years, Universal has worked closely with companies and organizations to bring live entertainment to their events,” said UAA general manager Nick Martucci. “By formalizing this department, we’re committing additional resources and focus to deliver not only talent, but the kind of lifestyle-driven, experiential moments today’s brands and audiences are looking for.”

Martucci continued adding: “With this launch, we’re taking a natural next step. Adam’s leadership and experience in both artist relations and corporate partnerships make him the ideal person to guide this new chapter of growth for the agency. For 17 years now, Adam has been one of the most trusted voices here at Universal. Adam has our full support, and we are looking forward to future success.”

About Adam Zagor:

Adam Zagor is a graduate of the Fame school, Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School for Music & Art and Performing Arts, and went on to earn both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music Performance from New York University. After working as a freelance musician for several years, performing at venues ranging from Carnegie Hall to festivals worldwide, Zagor began his career at UAA in 2009.

Zagor quickly came to realize that his passion for the music business was behind the scenes – helping to organize and arrange concerts, events, and tours. In 2017, he became the first agent promoted to partner by Epstein and Allen. Zagor currently represents K. Michelle, Marsha Ambrosius, Floetry, Mary Mary, Erica Campbell, Tina Campbell, Fred Hammond, Raheem DeVaughn, MC Lyte, Jeffrey Osborne, and David Benoit.

Brian Lottermann Promoted to West Coast Casino, Fair, Festival Agent at Universal Attractions Agency

 

Universal Attractions Agency has promoted Brian Lottermann to the position of West Coast agent for casinos, fairs, and festivals, based in the agency’s Los Angeles office. This promotion follows Ricky Regalado’s recent elevation to Co-Head of UAA’s casino, fair, and festivals department last month.

Brian joined Universal Attractions Agency in November 2021, where he quickly moved up to the agency’s trainee program and subsequently became the executive assistant to co-owner Jeff Epstein. In February 2023, he was promoted to West Coast agent (capacity 1,500 and under).

As the responsible agent for numerous UAA acts, Brian represents artists including Afroman, Doug E. Fresh, Goodie Mob, King George, The Pharcyde, Twista, and others. As Afroman’s agent, Brian has overseen the “Adventures of Afroman” tour, which has played out over 80 dates this year.

Additionally, Brian represents the acclaimed Southern Soul Explosion Tour, featuring King George, Sir Charles Jones, Calvin Richardson, TK Soul, Nellie Tiger Travis, and Ronnie Bell. Last month, the Southern Soul Explosion show at the Mercedes-Benz Amphitheater grossed $216,459.

Jeff Epstein spoke on Brian’s promotion saying: “I’m so proud of Brian to see him come up through the ranks — from my Assistant to working as the West Coast small-cap agent, to being responsible agent with me for Doug E. Fresh and Afroman, as well as the Southern Soul

whisperer. He’s come a long way and earned his spot as the new West Coast Casino, fair, and Festival agent.”

UAA’s general manager Nick Martucci added: “Since joining UAA, Brian has demonstrated exceptional growth and quickly established himself as a valuable member of the team. His professionalism, drive, and integrity have earned the respect of both his artists and colleagues, positioning him for continued success in his new role within the Casino, Fairs, and Festivals department.”

Outside of his career as an agent, Brian initially entered the business as a musician, booking local gigs as a bass player. He credits his time as a touring musician with shaping his current role as an agent, stating, “I did some small national tours in my college days and that has proven invaluable in my current position dealing with touring acts and routing dates, as well as understanding the artist’s mindset and life on the road.”

About Universal Attractions Agency / UAA:

Celebrating 80 years in the music business and founded in 1945 by Ben Bart, Universal Attractions Agency (UAA) is a leading talent agency headquartered in New York City. With a rich history that includes launching the career of legendary soul singer James Brown and representing him for over 40 years, UAA has been at the forefront of the entertainment industry for decades.

Today, UAA continues to guide the careers of prominent artists and entertainers. The agency represents over 250 artists, facilitates performances worldwide, and maintains its status as an industry leader under the leadership of Jeff Epstein and Jeff Allen.

UAA’s commitment to personalized attention and professionalism has solidified its reputation as a trusted partner in the entertainment sector, consistently adapting to the evolving landscape of the live music and entertainment industries.

Ricky Regalado Promoted to Co-Head of Casino, Fair & Festival Department at Universal Attractions Agency

Universal Attractions Agency has announced the promotion of Ricky Regalado to Co-Head of the Casinos, Fair & Festival Department, based in the New York office. Ricky will join the current head of the Department, Joel Brandes, in spearheading the Department’s operations. UAA’s Casino, Fair & Festival Department has experienced significant growth in 2025, marked by notable signings, including Chippendales, GenX -The Comedy Takeover Tour, Deal Or No Deal Live!, and The Brotherly Love Podcast.

Ricky joined UAA in 2018 as part of the internship program and quickly progressed through various positions, including agent trainee and executive assistant. In 2021, he was promoted to agent, where he has since overseen bookings in the East Coast territories. He has also served as the Responsible Agent for numerous artists and programs, including Johnny Gill, Chippendales, GenX – The Comedy Takeover Tour, The Stylistics, Deal or No Deal Live!, 70’s Soul Jam, and more.

As agent, Ricky has brokered high-profile bookings, including Erykah Badu’s 2024 headline performance at Afropunk Blktopia in Brooklyn, NY, Ludacris’s sold-out performance at The Big E! in West Springfield, MA, the national broadcast of the “I Love The 90’s” Tour for “The Fourth in America” segment on CNN, and most recently, a sold-out performance by R&B singer Joe at MGM’s stunning Beau Rivage Resort and Casino in Biloxi, MS.

On the promotion, UAA co-owner Jeff Epstein said: “I’m so proud of Ricky and everything he’s accomplished.” I’m honored to be working with him, and it’s been a pleasure to see him come up through the ranks from being an intern to being my assistant to helping develop and grow our Casino, Fair, and Festival Department. He’s one of the most tenacious people I know, and there’s no stopping him. Congrats, Ricky, on the well-deserved promotion!

UAA General Manager Nick Martucci added: “Ricky has grown into one of the most trusted voices at UAA. His work ethic and commitment to our artists make this promotion well deserved, and I’m excited to see what he and Joel accomplish together.”

The Casino, Fair, and Festival Department at Universal Attractions was established in 2014, when veteran agent Joel Brandes was appointed to lead the division at the agency’s newly opened Los Angeles office. In 2017, Chase Edwards joined the agency and was later promoted to West Coast casino agent in 2023. This year, the department has begun expanding into new genres—including comedy, Latin, pop/rock, and the emerging podcast space. Ricky and Joel will oversee the growth of these areas, guiding both the development of talent and the management of future projects within the department.

About Universal Attractions Agency / UAA:

Celebrating 80 years in the music business and founded in 1945 by Ben Bart, Universal Attractions Agency (UAA) is a leading talent agency headquartered in New York City. With a rich history that includes launching the career of legendary soul singer James Brown and representing him for over 40 years, UAA has been at the forefront of the entertainment industry for decades.

Today, UAA continues to guide the careers of prominent artists and entertainers. The agency represents over 250 artists, facilitates performances worldwide, and maintains its status as an industry leader under the leadership of Jeff Epstein and Jeff Allen.

UAA’s commitment to personalized attention and professionalism has solidified its reputation as a trusted partner in the entertainment sector, consistently adapting to the evolving landscape of the live music and entertainment industries.

The Smithereens Sign With Universal Attractions Agency

 

Universal Attractions Agency (UAA) has signed iconic alternative rock band The Smithereens for exclusive North American booking representation. Ryan Slone will act as the responsible agent for the band. The signing further strengthens UAA’s pop & rock division, founded in 2023, which has also seen the recent addition of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Booker T. Jones, Nine Days, and more.

 

The Smithereens, formed in 1980 in Carteret, NJ, achieved their breakthrough with the release of their debut album, “Especially for You,” in 1986. This album featured acclaimed tracks such as “Blood and Roses” and “Behind the Wall of Sleep,” which became staples of the alternative rock genre, receiving heavy rotation on MTV and college radio stations nationwide. Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, the band continued to enjoy success with hits like “A Girl Like You,” “Blues Before and After,” and “Too Much Passion.”

 

Throughout the years, The Smithereens have maintained a prolific touring schedule, performing over 2,500 live shows where they have shared the stage with rock & roll titans including The Ramones, Tom Petty, Lou Reed, and The Pretenders.

 

For upcoming shows, special guest vocalist John Cowsill will join The Smithereens. See below for October-November tour dates.

 

Speaking on the signing, UAA Rock & Pop agent Ryan Slone said: “The Smithereens are rock and roll royalty. We are all proud to work with a band with an incredible legacy and a loyal fan base that spans generations!”

 

Upcoming Smithereens Shows

10/9 – Brookville, NY – Krasnoff Theater

10/10 – Saybrook, CT – Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center

10/17 – Ardmore, PA – Ardmore Music Hall

11/7 – Falls Church, VA – State Theatre

11/8 – Richmond, VA – Tin Pan

11/14 – Boston, MA City – Winery Boston

11/15 – Greenwich, RI – Greenwich Odeum

Tickets for upcoming shows can be purchased at: officialsmithereens.com

About The Smithereens:

Founded in New Jersey in 1980, The Smithereens have been creating electrifying, original rock’n’roll for 45 years. Jim Babjak (guitar), Dennis Diken (drums), and Mike Mesaros (bass) grew up together in Carteret, and the lead singer, the late Pat DiNizio, hailed from Scotch Plains. The band paid its dues in clubs all over the NYC tri-state area, from Kenny’s Castaways in Greenwich Village to the Court Tavern and Stone Pony in NJ. As The Smithereens’ fame escalated, they were in heavy rotation on MTV and appeared on The Tonight Show, Conan O’Brien, and Saturday Night Live.

The Smithereens have resonated with fans worldwide over the course of 17 albums and more than 2,500 live shows. Their most recent release, “The Lost Album,” features 12 previously unreleased songs recorded in the fall of 1993 when the band was in between contracts with Capitol and RCA.

After the 2017 passing of Pat DiNizio, the surviving members have decided to persevere and carry on their shared musical legacy. Utilizing guest vocalists such as Robin Wilson (Gin Blossoms), Marshall Crenshaw, and John Cowsill (The Cowsills/The Beach Boys), they continue to entertain and rock fans throughout the U.S. and the world.

About Universal Attractions Agency / UAA:

Celebrating 80 years in the music business and founded in 1945 by Ben Bart, Universal Attractions Agency (UAA) is a leading talent agency headquartered in New York City. With a rich history that includes launching the career of legendary soul singer James Brown and representing him for over 40 years, UAA has been at the forefront of the entertainment industry for decades.

Today, UAA continues to guide the careers of prominent artists and entertainers. The agency represents over 250 artists, facilitates performances worldwide, and maintains its status as an industry leader under the leadership of Jeff Epstein and Jeff Allen.

Rick Ross Unveils The RR22 Collection, A Collaboration With Edition22

edition22 

Rick Ross is many things, a rapper, an entrepreneur, a cultural icon. Now, he is adding a luxury bag line with Edition22 to his long list of accomplishments.
 

On Friday, he unveiled the RR22 Collection with the brand Edition22 at the G7 Rooftop in Fort Lauderdale, boasting vegan leather backpacks, duffle bags, sling bags, crossbody bags, and more. Embedded with the “RR22” logo, the collection comes in various colorways, from black to baby blue, an olive green and an ochre yellow.

The collection is rooted in giving back, as Edition22 has a Bag-4-Bag Initiative, where a backpack is donated to someone in need for every bag that is purchased. Edition22 is part of the Bugatti Collections, the parent company of luxury bags and luggage. A notable co-owner of Edition 22 is Etienne Boulay, a retired football player.

HOLLYWOOD, FLORIDA – AUGUST 08: Rick Ross, Etienne Boulay, Andrew Hattem, James Raymond Hattem and guest attend RR22 Launch Event With Rick Ross at G7 Rooftop on August 08, 2025 in Hollywood, Florida. (Photo by Romain Maurice/Getty Images)

“From the beginning, it was a priority for us at Edition22, and for Rick Ross, that the RR22 Collection had a meaningful impact beyond just fashion,” said Andrew Hattem, President of Edition22 and CEO of The Bugatti Group. “The Bag-for-Bag initiative reflects that shared commitment: for every bag sold, we donate a backpack to someone in need. It’s about giving back, empowering kids, and making a difference.”

Motivation is part of Ross’ legacy in hip hop and entrepreneurship. He recently celebrated the 19-year anniversary of his debut album Port of Miami, which was released in 2006, signing a multi-million-dollar deal with Jay-Z on Def Jam Recordings.

Rick Ross and Etienne Boulay pose for the RR22 X Rick Ross shoot for Edition22.

edition22

In line with Ross’ legacy, RR22 Collection bag has an inspirational quote inscribed on the brand labels. The quotes are chosen by Ross. From “You can’t hustle and sleep at the same time,” to “I’m a boss, I don’t follow trends, I set them” and “The game is going to test you, never fold. Stay 10 toes down,” they encapsulate his legacy.

When he isn’t performing onstage, hosting parties or dishing business advice on Instagram, Ross is busy. His entrepreneurial empire includes Bumbu rum, Luc Belaire sparkling wine, Belaire champagne, the Maybach Music Group record label, which he founded in 2008, signing artists like Meek Mill, French Montana and Omarion, among others. He also founded Maybach Films. He invests in dental brand Smiles by Mario Montoya, Hempacco, Ewing Athletics and various restaurant franchises, Checkers and Rally’s and Wingstop.

edition22

Why would he continue to expand his empire into a lifestyle brand collaboration with Edition22? “’Why wouldn’t I’ is the question,” said Ross. “Let me tell you something; when you’re in South Florida, this is the number one spot in the world for entrepreneurship. 95% of my businesses are launching South Florida Takeoff. When you have an opportunity to work with Bugatti Collections, Edition 22, it’s too easy. They have the most amazing team. They’ve made history with other celebrities with collaborations they’ve done. Now we just finna take it our way. Let’s take it to the real, to the streets.”

He saw his rise in hip hop in a very different, pre-digital era. It’s different now, with social media as a major player in a rapper’s success. His advice for today’s young artists is that “Everything is possible.”

edition22

Ross explains: “That’s what I would have told myself as a young artist. Even when it looks the darkest, when it looks like you have no opportunity there, or you could be sitting there just wanting to be a songwriter and you wake up one day and you’re in the studio with Rick Ross and Rihanna, Beyonce, Jay-Z, DJ Khaled, you have to be prepared for that. And once that opportunity presents itself, you got to accept that challenge and turn up.”

Ross often talks on podcasts and social media about mediocrity and how artists can stand out from the crowd. Its about rising above it, having a vision and making a bold statement. “Rising above mediocrity is too easy, really. You have to love what you’re doing. And when you love what you’re doing, you put everything into what you’re doing. And when you put your everything into what you’re doing, it’s hard for somebody to touch you.”

Ying Yang Twins’ Hits-Packed Performance at SeaWorld Goes Viral

 

Ying Yang Twins.

Credit : Stephen J. Cohen/Getty

 

Ying Yang Twins still have that boom boom.

 

The hip-hop duo, composed of Kaine and D-Roc, was spotted performing at SeaWorld in San Diego on Saturday, June 28, and the energetic performance has since gone viral. They took the stage at Bayside Amphitheater as part of the park’s Summer Spectacular series.

 

The duo performed several of their hit songs, including “Salt Shaker” and “Shake,” Vibe reports. Fans of the pair were seen jamming out to their performance.

 

In the comments on a video clip posted on X, one user wrote, “They had everyone out of their seats moving though.” Another user wrote, “Sea World & the Ying Yang Twins is a hilarious collab.”

  

Meanwhile, one quipped, “Dang i didn’t know Sea World got lit like this!” A different comment read, “All the parents dancing holding their babies..straight up millennial energy.”

Ying Yang Twins.

Credit: Scott Legato/WireImage

 

Ying Yang Twins are particularly nostalgic for millennials. The group rose to fame after hits like 2000’s “Whistle While You Twurk” and their 2003 collaboration with Britney Spears on the song “(I Got That) Boom Boom.” They quickly became household names for their ability to craft electric party hits.

 

Another video shared to X showed a view from the crowd. “Ying yang twins got everyone cutting up at Seaworld LMFAOOOOO,” the user wrote.

 

The duo most recently took the stage at the 2025 BET Awards on June 9 in Los Angeles. Earlier this year, they embarked on the Millennium Tour, joining a packed lineup of hip hop, R&B and rap artists who defined the 1990s and 2000s.

 

 

The Summer Spectacular Series will continue throughout the summer. The lineup includes Soulja Boy and Bow Wow on July 12 and Waka Flocka Flame on July 26. The full schedule of performances and further event details are available on the official website.

Talib Kweli Sets 26-Stop North American Tour

Legendary Brooklyn rapper Talib Kweli will tour clubs and theaters across the U.S. and Canada this fall.

Kweli’s 26-stop fall and winter tour begins Sept. 11 at House of Independents in Asbury Park, New Jersey, and includes stops in Toronto, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Nashville and more, before wrapping Dec. 5 at the Merry Widow in Mobile, Alabama. Kweli will also play three U.K. dates in November with Black Star.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased via talibkweli.com/shows.

Kweli recently signed with Universal Attractions Agency where he is repped by Ben Sauberman and Jeff Epstein.

2025 Talib Kweli North American Tour Dates:

Sept. 11 – Asbury Park, NJ – House of Independents
Sept. 12 – Ardmore, PA – Ardmore Music Hall
Sept. 25 – S. Kingston, RI – Ocean Mist
Sept. 26 – S. Kingston, RI – Ocean Mist (SOLD OUT)
Sept. 27 – Burlington, VT – Afterthoughts
Sept. 28 – Portland, ME – Oxbow Live
Oct. 10 – Sudbury, ON – The Grand
Oct. 11 – Waterloo, ON – Maxwell’s Concerts and Events
Oct. 12 – Toronto, ON – Horseshoe Tavern
Oct. 14 – Cleveland, OH – Mercury Music Lounge
Oct. 15 – Lansing, MI – Grewal Hall at 224
Oct. 17 – Milwaukee, WI – The Miramar Hall
Oct. 18 – Ferndale, MI – The Loving Touch
Oct. 22 – Reno, NV – Alpine
Oct. 23 – San Diego, CA – The Holding Company
Oct. 24 Los Angeles, CA – Venice West
Oct. 25 – Leonardstown, MD – The Rex Theater
Nov. 5 – Omaha, NE – The Waiting Room
Nov. 7 – Columbia, MO – Blue Note Columbia
Nov. 9 – Louisville, KY – Mercury Ballroom
Nov. 11 – O2 Academy Brixton – London, United Kingdom (U.K. Black Star Date)
Nov. 15 – O2 Victoria Warehouse – Manchester, United Kingdom (U.K. Black Star Date)
Nov. 16 – O2 Academy Birmingham – Birmingham, United Kingdom (U.K. Black Star Date)
Nov. 23 – Baltimore, MD – Baltimore Sound Stage
Nov. 28 – Atlanta, GA – The Loft
Nov. 29 – Birmingham, AL – Workplay Theatre
Nov. 30 – Nashville, TN – City Winery Nashville
Dec. 3 – Ponte Vedra, FL – Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
Dec. 5 – Mobile, AL – The Merry Widow

Gen X: The Takeover Comedy Tour Signs With UAA

L-R – The Real Slim Sherri, Justin Rupple, Jon Wellington, Kelly Manno, Nick Harrison

 

The “Gen X: The Takeover Comedy Tour” has partnered with Universal Attractions Agency (UAA) for exclusive representation. UAA’s Ricky Regalado will serve as the responsible agent. This collaboration marks the group’s entry into the touring circuit with their debut North American tour.

Created by renowned content creators such as The Real Slim Sherri, Kelly Manno, The Dadbod Veteran (Jon Wellington), and Professor Nick Harrison, the group has gained a massive following, with their combined social media presence exceeding 20 million followers. For the tour, actor Justin Rupple joins them as the host.

The first-ever Gen X: The Takeover Comedy show took place in September 2024 and became an instant hit. Now, the Gen X: The Takeover Comedy Tour is set to kick off its inaugural North American tour for 2025-2026. The tour will kick off this Friday, August 8, at Caesars Atlantic City. The first leg of the tour will run throughout the fall, visiting cities such as Cincinnati and Tacoma (Seattle). They will conclude 2025 by joining the sold-out six-night GenX Takeover Royal Caribbean cruise in November. Dates and cities for the 2026 leg of the tour have been announced, with details about venues and ticket on-sale dates to be revealed soon.

UAA Casino agent Ricky Regalado spoke on the upcoming tour, saying: “Working alongside such a talented group of influencers on Gen X: The Takeover Comedy Tour has been an incredibly fun and inspiring experience. I’m extremely proud of the creativity and collaboration this team has brought to the table. Each influencer brings a unique voice and a deep connection with their fans, and we’re excited to share that energy with fans across the country as the tour rolls out.”

Justin Rupple added: I’ve worked in live production for nearly two decades, and the team at UAA has been the most professional I have ever worked with. As a comedian, it’s hard to find a team that understands the performance side and production like they do.”

For tickets and more information, visit: genxtakeover.com

2025-2026 Gen X: The Takeover Comedy Tour Dates

Aug 8, 2025 – Atlantic City, NJ – Caesars Atlantic City

Aug 9, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH – Hard Rock Cincinnati

Aug 22, 2025 – Medford, MA – Chevalier Theatre

Sept 13, 2025- Charles Town, WV – Hollywood Casino Charles Town

Oct 9, 2025 – Tacoma, WA – Emerald Queen Casino

Oct 26, 2025 – Charleston, SC – North Charleston PAC

Nov 9-15 – GenX Cruise (SOLD OUT)

Jan 31, 2026 – Detroit, MI – Hollywood Casino GreekTown

Mar 1, 2026 – Charlotte, NC (Venue TBA)

Mar 6, 2026 – Baltimore, MD (Venue TBA)

Mar 7, 2026 – Buffalo, NY (Venue TBA)

Mar 15, 2026 – Indianapolis, IN (Venue TBA)

Mar 20, 2026 – Oklahoma City, OK (Venue TBA)

Mar 22, 2026 – Mesa, AZ (Venue TBA)

Mar 29, 2026 – Omaha, NE (Venue TBA)

June 13, 2026 – Mulvane, KS (Venue TBA)

Aug 21, 2026 – Mashantucket, CT (Venue TBA)

About Gen X: The Takeover Comedy Tour:

Welcome to GenX Takeover – where authenticity meets nostalgia. Our community is fueled by the vibrant voices of iconic creators like The Real Slim Sherri, Jon Wellington (The Dadbod Veteran, DBV), Nick Harrison (The Professor), and Kelly Manno, your best friend in your head. Each of them brings their unique flavor of humor, resilience, and unapologetic realness, making GenX Takeover the ultimate destination for those who celebrate life’s quirks and the power of being yourself. Join us as we embark on this exciting adventure, and stay tuned for future events.

About Universal Attractions Agency / UAA:

Celebrating 80 years in the music business and founded in 1945 by Ben Bart, Universal Attractions Agency (UAA) is a leading talent agency headquartered in New York City. With a rich history that includes launching the career of legendary soul singer James Brown and representing him for over 40 years, UAA has been at the forefront of the entertainment industry for decades.

Today, UAA continues to guide the careers of prominent artists and entertainers. The agency represents over 250 artists, facilitates performances worldwide, and maintains its status as an industry leader under the leadership of Jeff Epstein and Jeff Allen.

UAA’s commitment to personalized attention and professionalism has solidified its reputation as a trusted partner in the entertainment sector, consistently adapting to the evolving landscape of the live music and entertainment industries. To find more information about Universal Attractions and the agency’s roster, visit the official UAA website.

Paul Wall and DJ.Fresh Keep It Smooth on “Riding With The Top Down”

Paul Wall and DJ.Fresh Keep It Smooth on “Riding With The Top Down”

Paul Wall never left—he just hit cruise control. The People’s Champ has teamed up with DJ.Fresh for “Riding With The Top Down,” a slow-burning, Houston-laced track that’s equal parts homage and evolution. This latest single sets the tone for their upcoming collaborative album The Tonite Show, and if the rest of the project rides like this, it’s going to be a proper soundtrack for everything from summer chill-outs to slab parades.

 

While the title may hint at a simple pleasure—rolling through the city with the roof peeled back—what Wall and Fresh deliver here is a masterclass in regional finesse, musical maturity, and laid-back charisma.

 

Back in His Element

Paul Wall sounds right at home on this track, gliding over the beat with the confidence of someone who’s lived every bar. His delivery is relaxed, but don’t mistake that for laziness—this is seasoned storytelling. Wall’s verses balance light-hearted flexing with real-life reflections, hitting that sweet spot between self-aware and self-assured. One moment he’s tipping his fitted hat to the South’s cruising culture, the next he’s dropping lines about longevity and growth.

 

And then there’s that hook: “Ridin’ with my top diine.” It’s the kind of line that feels effortless but sticks like candy paint on chrome. It taps into the deep tradition of Southern ride-out anthems while letting Wall’s signature drawl do the heavy lifting. This is the Paul Wall that fans fell in love with—the one who can make slab talk sound like poetry without ever breaking a sweat.

 

DJ.Fresh Lays the Foundation

Behind the wheel of the track is DJ.Fresh, who proves once again that he knows exactly when to drive and when to let the artist coast. The production is understated but full of detail—a bass-heavy backbone carries the groove, while soft piano loops add just enough sparkle to elevate the vibe. The drums move slow, but they hit, echoing the DNA of Houston’s chopped-and-screwed legacy without copying it note for note.

 

What’s impressive here is how Fresh manages to create something that feels timeless without sounding dated. It’s a throwback in spirit, but one that’s been meticulously updated for 2025 ears. You could ride through Third Ward with this on blast just as easily as you could stream it at home with your AirPods in and still catch the vibe.

 

This isn’t a beat you shout over. It’s one you live in. And that’s exactly what makes “Riding With The Top Down” work so well—it gives both artists the room to breathe.

 

A Love Letter to Houston

If you know, you know. Houston’s car culture isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character. And Paul Wall’s music has always been rooted in that world, from the candy-painted rides to the neon glow of undercarriage lights on a slow Saturday night cruise. With this track, Wall and Fresh bring all of that back into focus, not by rehashing old tropes, but by refreshing them.

 

The references aren’t heavy-handed; they’re woven into the DNA of the song. Whether it’s nods to perseverance or subtle hints at the highs and lows of staying in the game, there’s a maturity to Wall’s pen that underscores just how far he’s come—and how grounded he’s stayed. “Riding With The Top Down” isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s about ownership—of style, of legacy, and of the lane both artists are carving out together.

 

Building Momentum for The Tonite Show

If this single is the warm-up lap, then The Tonite Show is shaping up to be a full-on cruise through Southern hip-hop at its most refined. Both Paul Wall and DJ.Fresh are seasoned vets with cult followings and collaborative instincts, and the synergy on this track hints at something more than just a one-off link-up. There’s intentionality here—a clear understanding of sound, culture, and pace.

 

It’s also a smart move strategically. In an era of short attention spans and hyper-compressed bangers, “Riding With The Top Down” dares to slow it down and stretch it out. And it works. It’s not just a vibe—it’s a lane. And right now, Wall and Fresh are riding it with the top down, sun out, and no traffic in sight.

 

For fans of Southern hip-hop, car culture, and music that knows how to chill with purpose, this track isn’t just a must-add—it’s a mood setter.

 

The Tonite Show is coming. Until then, slide into “Riding With The Top Down” wherever you stream, and get ready for more heat from two of the smoothest to ever lace up a track.

 

Raheem DeVaughn Releases ‘The Love Experience (20th Anniversary Mixtape)’

Grammy-nominated R&B singer Raheem DeVaughn celebrates the 20th anniversary of his debut album, The Love Experience, with a commemorative mixtape.

The special set, hosted by DJ Lil Mac, incorporates remixes and exclusive commentary that brings back that classic mixtape feel.

Speaking on The Love Experience (20th Anniversary Mixtape), DeVaughn shares, “This mixtape is a love letter to my day-one fans and a reintroduction to a project that changed my life. Working with DJ Lil Mic again brought everything full circle.”

The Love Experience was released June 28, 2005, via Zomba Recording. It debuted at No. 9 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.

 

The album was preceded by the lead single, “Guess Who Loves You More,” produced by Kenny Dope. The cult classic album also included fan-favorite jams like “You,” “Believe,” “Ask Yourself” and “Is It Possible,” among others.

The latter song was originally written for Dwele‘s 2005 album, Subject.

DeVaughn told Hugo Lunny in a 2005 interview, “I actually wrote that record for Dwele to perform and there’s actually a recorded version of the song where he recorded it. It’s floating around. I think he’s real dope, he’s a friend of mine and we’ll probably do some stuff down the pipeline in the future.”

Since The Love Experience, DeVaughn dropped released Love Behind the Melody (2008), which included his Grammy-nominated singles “Woman” and “Customer,” and The Love & War MasterPeace (2010), also nominated for a Grammy, A Place Called Love Land (2013), Love Sex Passion (2015), Decade Of A Love King (2018), The Love Reunion(2019), What A Time To Be In Love (2020), plus a host of mixtapes and other collaborative projects.
 

DeVaughn, who also hosts WHUR’s Quiet Storm, is showing no signs of slowing down, with new music reportedly coming soon.

The Love King is currently on his Quiet Storm Lover Tour with upcoming stops in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Cincinnati, Detroit and more. (A list of tour dates is available below.)

Stream Raheem DeVaughn’s The Love Experience (20th Anniversary Mixtape) below.

 

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