Makin’ It Magazine presents The Makin’ It Compound — The BIGGEST independent event during SXSW! Every year Makin' It Mag brings together:
- 1,000's of attendees
- 200+ DJs
- Media & Industry Tastemakers
- Artists ready to level up
ARTISTS — Perform During SXSW
Book your performance slot at The Makin’ It Compound. This is a curated showcase attended by DJs, media, and industry professionals — not just another open mic. http://www.makinitcompound.com/
Promoters and Brands — Host Your Own Event During SXSW
Book a time block at The Makin’ It Compound to host your own:
- Label Showcase
- Listening Session
- Panel
- Brand Activation
- Soundstage http://www.makinitcompound.com/
“The one thing we can do is not be afraid. It'll piss off everyone who wants us to be afraid — but then now everyone who's not afraid has the power” – Marquel With that single quote, Marquel defines the pulse behind his latest music video, BUR — a defiant musical and visual statement about breaking free from fear, control, and the invisible chains we inherit from trauma and circumstance.
The cinematic short, released under What Happens On Earth, pushes boundaries both emotionally and technically. Using FaceFusion and AI-powered visual storytelling, Marquel transforms himself through surreal layers of distortion and identity — creating a world that feels both human and dream-like, a reflection of this generation’s battle between truth and illusion.
In one of the video’s most talked-about moments, an AI-generated "Jefferey Epstien" appears — a haunting digital embodiment of power and manipulation. "Epstien is really a symbol of fear and this video is about confronting that fear. Through this confrontation, BUR challenges the audience to look directly at the face of control and choose courage instead.
While many artists use AI as a gimmick, BUR wields it like a weapon of truth. Every glitch, mask, and morphing frame carries emotional weight — each one telling the story of how Marquel confronted his trauma. The result is part short film, part inner revolution.
Produced under the visionary banner of What Happens On Earth, and supported by Marquel’s broader creative house 420 Live Entertainment, BUR stands as a visual rebellion — a reminder that fear only has power if we let it. You can follow him on socials at @itsmarquel on tiktok and instagram
Swazy Styles ft. Skyy and Karen Cáceres “Dembow” (available 11/13/25) is a high-energy Caribbean-inspired club record produced by Guido Beats. The track brings a vibrant mix of rhythmic percussion, catchy melodies, and a nonstop party groove that represents the true spirit of Dembow. Swazy delivers his signature flow while Skyy and Karen add smooth, melodic flavor that lifts the track and gives it a dynamic, international feel. This is the kind of record built for dance floors, street parties, and every moment that needs pure movement and good energy.
"Dembow" is a follow up to the recent single "On Go" featuring Fuega and Karen Cáceres available now on streaming platforms. Listen to the music below and follow Swazy on social media: @swazystyles
Traps-N-Trunks teams up with DJ Scream for the ‘Strictly 4 The Traps N Trunks Halloween 2024 Edition’ mixtape series. Follow on Instagram: @strictly4trapsntrunks @djscream
Hailing from Washington DC, K_Nemacis is an artist who masterfully blends the classic East Coast flow with a Southern influence, delivering punchline-heavy, metaphor-laden bars that resonate with audiences far and wide. Over the past five years, K_Nemacis has tirelessly honed his craft, transforming from a poet into a lyricist whose words are deeply rooted in personal experiences of hardship and resilience. His journey has seen him perform at local venues, premier PPV TV events, and even tour alongside the legendary Soulja Boy, while also collaborating with artists like Crip Mac.
The Journey from Poetry to Hip Hop
K_Nemacis's foray into hip hop began with poetry. This foundation allowed him to craft lyrics that are not only technically impressive but also rich in narrative and emotion. His favorite track, "No Love," is a poignant depiction of the struggles faced by single mothers, a reflection of a challenging period in his own life. Each of his songs starts with a concept, setting the tone for lyrics that seamlessly blend drill and trap with honest storytelling.
Breakout Tracks: "Pressure" and "Respekt"
March saw the release of "Pressure," a track that perfectly showcases K_Nemacis's ability to merge club-friendly vibes with introspective storytelling. The song addresses life's pressures with an unwavering determination that has resonated with fans and critics alike. Its success has solidified K_Nemacis's position in the hip hop scene, demonstrating his unique talent and relentless drive.
Not one to rest on his laurels, K_Nemacis released a new single, "Respekt," in June. He aims for "Respekt" to be just as solid as "Pressure," if not more. The anticipation for this track is high, with fans eager to see how K_Nemacis continues to elevate his wordplay and delivery.
Touring and Performing
K_Nemacis's recent performances have been nothing short of electrifying. Touring with Live Nation, he has had the opportunity to open for artists like NLE Choppa and Fredo Bangz. These performances have allowed him to connect with a broader audience, showcasing his talent and passion for hip hop on bigger stages.
A Passion for Elevation
As K_Nemacis prepares for the next chapter in his career, his passion to surpass his previous projects and connect with audiences nationwide is evident. His dedication to his craft and his ability to blend different influences into a cohesive and compelling sound set him apart in the competitive hip hop landscape. With each release, K_Nemacis reaffirms his place as an artist to watch, driven by a desire to leave a lasting impact on the genre.
"Strictly 4 Traps N Trunks: 4th of July 2024 Edition," hosted by the gritty OJ Da Juiceman, delivers a raw and unfiltered snapshot of Southern trap's cutting edge. Expect relentless flows and hard-hitting lyrics that embody the grind and resilience celebrated on the streets.
Follow on Instagram: @strictly4trapsntrunks @ojdajuiceman32
The East Atlanta Legend "P L A Y B O I I" drops his new music video "Mesmerize" featuring his blood brother @Ybt3fly as the first single from his new album "Heartbreak Playboii 2" coming soon.
New Video: Chinese Kitty – Buggin Featuring Connie Diiamond
Chinese Kitty Official Video ft. Connie Diiamond "BUGGIN" music video shoot collaboration with Nails Posh Studio located at 1570 St Nicholas Ave, New York, NY 10040. Go get your nails, hair and body done today at Nails Posh Studio. Checkout Chinese Kitty official music video ft. Connie Diiamond "BUGGIN" out now on all platforms.
DJ Scream hosts the latest edition of the ‘Strictly 4 The Traps N Trunks’ mixtape series. The Memorial Day 2024 Edition features new music from Starlito, Project Pat, OJ Da Juiceman, Moneybagg Yo, HoneyKomb Brazy, Icewear Vezzo, Trouble, Peewee Lo.
