Joshua Braggs is a sophomore here at the University of Houston. He is studying digital media and uses these skills for his blog, the Rap Hotline. This is the best place for quick and easy rap news. Braggs hopes that his blog can lead to an industry job in the future. When it comes to musicians, he advisers Jay-Z the most. He stated, “he's living proof of the American dream. The obstacles he had to go through to get where he at today is inspiring... Like him, now I'm in a position where I can be the greatest to ever do it.”
Braggs, pictured to the left, was raised in Longview, TX. He says 50 Cent, Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, The Neptune’s, Kanye West, OutKast, and Wu-Tang help shape his identity. He says hip hop news is important because it creates awareness. The Rap Hotline is all about rap appreciation and giving an authentic hip-hop experience.
Favorite artist?
“Westside Gunn beats selection is the greatest. It's like you're walking into heaven for the first time. His lyrics are like expensive living. JustBrae music is therapy. Feel sad? Play JustBrae. Feel blessed? Play JustBrae. He's also local.”
Who's behind the page?
“Cameron Veal With our upcoming podcast. Kallie Stockton the playlist queen. Najee Hurte provided footage from music events. As we grow I'm also looking to expand.”
Who has tapped into the Rap Hotline?
“I got a long list. My favorites are Big Boi from Outkast, Wu-Tang, Jay Versace, Big Sean, YSL Records, Slim Thug, and Musiq Soulchild. Some just like and view, others repost and share.”
So Joshua, what makes The Rap Hotline so hot?
“The people that like, share, and comment on my posts. It lets me know I earned their trust with this account. My page consists of rare things that will blow your mind. The Rap Hotline is just a different account they never seen before. Shoutout to everyone that’s been supporting the account since day one.”
What do you say to the people who think hip hop is corrupting the youth?
”I don’t think rap is corrupting generations, but there are some areas that needs to be addressed. If we’re talking about how it influences kids to do bad things, that’s on parents and their way of raising their kids… I think about when NWA came into the rap scene. Their lyrics where harsh but real. That’s life. They were frowned upon by the public because what they said was true.”
How do you serve the black community with your business?
“Before im some guy behind a rap account, I’m a black man. A black man living in America. Crazy stuff happens in our community every day especially in the music scene. I try my best to create awareness on what’s going on. Especially if it needs to be addressed.”
Where do you see this brand going in the future?
"I see the brand growing and improving day by day in the future. I also want more opportunities to connect with fans that love rap as much as the next and others all around the world..I want to explore more of the unknowns about rap/hip-hop as well."
What do you want to say to other Black creators?
“No matter how long it takes you to blow up and get noticed, don’t quit. Don’t give up. Rome wasn’t built in a day. As long as you got the passion inside you and you know that you’re unstoppable, its a scary sight! Especially with the right people in your corner. If you have any doubters that love to count you out and don’t think you can do it at the highest level, do it in front of their face so they know your different“
Next up for the Rap Hotline: Podcast
Follow The Rap Hotline on IG to stay tuned!
IG: @theraphotline
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