Entertainment

Los Angeles Artist Presidentrj Details the Ups and Downs of His Career to This Point

Published

3 years ago

December 24, 2020

“Every day is a hustle to survive,” shares south-central Los Angeles rapper Presidentrj. The recent success of his 2020 project, STREET PRIEST, has opened doors for Presidentrj that he did not even know ere in front of him. Rising to this level of success has not been easy for the young hip-hop artist, though. Still, he is not about to let his past or any future hardships slow him down from achieving his goals. Currently producing the follow-up to his 2020 release, Presidentrj is looking to break out of the LA underground scene and name himself throughout the entire rap industry.

Born and raised in the south-central area of LA, Presidentrj began his pursuit for success in the rap industry back in 2018. Connecting early with his now frequent collaborator, Atlanta producer Kutta Beats, Presidentrj established himself as a force in the city’s underground scene with his natural storytelling ability and melodic style of rapping. However, all of the rapper’s promise was put on hold when he faced eviction from his LA apartment in March of 2019. “A lot of sleepless nights; a lot of wondering if I would make it home,” the young artist shares of his life after eviction. Struggling to make ends meet, Presidentrj focused more on his writing ability, as he could not afford beats and studio time. The work he was able to put on paper during that time, though, would turn into what is now the already released STREET PRIEST and the soon-to-be-released STREET PRIEST II.

Finding himself back on his feet by the start of 2020, the young rapper had a plethora of new life experiences that he could pour into his rapping. “My songs give listeners an idea of what life is like in the streets and what a lot of people have to go through to survive,” shares Presidentrj. With the release of his 2020 project, STREET PRIEST, the young rap hopeful explored the topics of homelessness, struggling with trust, and the ups and downs of relationships. Following up that project with its sequel, STREET PRIEST II, which is set for release in January, Presidentrj is hoping to further expand upon the groundwork he laid with his first project. “I want people to understand the process I took to get where I am at today.”

To hear Presidentrj’s music, check out his Spotify and follow him on Instagram for updates on STREET PRIEST II.

Entertainment

“The Firing Squad”: I Cried Buckets of Tears

Published

1 week ago

April 25, 2024

Jonathan Grilli

Sitting in the dimly lit theater, I had no idea what to expect as the opening credits of “The Firing Squad” began to roll. Little did I know that I was about to embark on an emotional journey that would leave me reaching for tissues and struggling to catch my breath.

The film follows the true story of three Christians facing execution by firing squad in a third world country. Directed by Timothy A. Chey, it features a stellar cast including James Barrington, Kevin Sorbo, and Cuba Gooding Jr. Each actor brings their character to life with such authenticity and depth that it’s impossible not to be fully immersed in their struggles and triumphs.

As the plot unfolded, I found myself drawn into a world of despair and desperation, but also one of unwavering faith and hope. The characters’ journey from darkness to light, from despair to redemption, resonated with me on a deeply personal level. I couldn’t help but be moved by their courage and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.

But it was the performances that truly stole the show. James Barrington’s portrayal of the protagonist’s internal turmoil was nothing short of mesmerizing, while Kevin Sorbo and Cuba Gooding Jr. delivered powerhouse performances that left me in awe.

And then there was the message of the film—that no matter how bleak the circumstances may seem, there is always hope. That even in our darkest moments, faith has the power to transform lives and bring about redemption. It was a message that hit me like a ton of bricks, leaving me with tears streaming down my face and a renewed sense of purpose.

As the credits rolled and the lights came up, I found myself struggling to put into words the impact that “The Firing Squad” had on me. All I could manage was, “I cried buckets of tears.” And I wasn’t alone. As I looked around the theater, I saw others wiping their eyes and exchanging emotional glances.

In the end, “The Firing Squad” wasn’t just a movie—it was an experience. An experience that left me feeling inspired, uplifted, and profoundly grateful for the power of cinema to touch the soul. And for that, I will be forever grateful.

The movie is set to premiere in the theatres worldwide on August 2, 2024. And this is definitely a must watch movie, reminding people of the strength of faith.