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Red Bull Brought The Knockturnal to Miami to Explore the World’s Largest Freestyle Competition – and it did not disappoint

by Catherina Gioino
written by Catherina Gioino

Attendees during Red Bull Batalla Miami Qualifiers at Skatebird in Miami, Florida on 26 of August, 2023 // Ian Witlen / Red Bull Content Pool

 

 

 

 

 

 

We all know Red Bull gives you wings, but did you know that it can also help people spit out fire? 

That was the case in Miami this weekend when the top Spanish-language lyricists from all over the country delivered some brutal and precise lines at the Red Bull Batalla Regional Qualifier. 

Now celebrating its 16th year, the Red Bull Batalla boasts the largest freestyle competition in the world, and the talent that flocked to Miami for the Regional Qualifier had The Knockturnal questioning if we were at the National Final instead. 

Sixteen rappers, freestylers, dancers, and artists all around compete in three different regional qualifiers–with the previous qualifiers taking place in Los Angeles in July and Houston in August–to test their quick-witted rhyming strengths and prove why they should advance to the National Final in Dallas in November. The winner of the National Final will test their chops with top MCs from all over the world in the Red Bull Batalla World Final, taking place in Bogotá, Colombia, on December 2. 

Sara Socas performs during Red Bull Batalla Miami Qualifiers at Skatebird in Miami, Florida on 26 of August, 2023 // Ian Witlen / Red Bull Content Pool

Ahead of the Miami Qualifier, Red Bull welcomed several journalists from across the country to stay in the art mecca neighborhood of Wynwood in Miami. This year’s contestants stayed at the Arlo Wynwood, a hotel with killer views of Wynwood Walls murals, and a gorgeous rooftop pool complete with occasional guest DJ parties. With the surrounding area of Wynwood full of art, culture, and great food, and with the influx of murals, graffiti, dancing, and Spanish-speaking hip-hop heavyweights intersecting at every corner, the stage was certainly set for the world’s largest freestyle competition.

In between graffiti workshop classes and Asian-Latin fusion dinners, the stage was also certainly set at an unsurprising venue where often these subcultures intersect: a skatepark. That’s right: the Red Bull Batalla Miami Regional Qualifier was set right in the middle of a half-pipe ramp, letting the crowd there certainly match the energy of the contestants freestyling for the Red Bull red, yellow, and blue-colored Batalla trophy, featuring a recording mic. 

Apache performs during Red Bull Batalla Miami Qualifiers at Skatebird in Miami, Florida on 26 of August, 2023 // Ian Witlen / Red Bull Content Pool

The weekend started with a graffiti workshop class at the Miami Art Society, which detailed how the Wynwood neighborhood came to be, artists works in the gallery, and how graffiti often intertwined with hip-hop and freestyling. This was then followed by a graffiti lesson by Entes, a Peruvian-born graffiti artist who not only enlisted in the help of Red Bull staff and reporters to ultimately make a freestyling avian he cheekily called “Rooster,” but also created a spot-on Red Bull logo just by using his naked eye. 

The night concluded with an Asian-Latin fusion dinner at El Chinito, just down the block from both Arlo Wynwood and the Miami Art Society. The dinner consisted of mixed fusion dishes such as carnitas shumai and watermelon “tuna” pizza; and Red Bull-inspired drinks such as the Chinito Summer (Red Bull Red Edition– watermelon – Tanqueray Gin, Peach Schnapps, lime juice, and simple syrup) and Buru Loko (Red Bull Coconut Berry, Tequila Blanco, Peychaud’s Bitters), as well as the standard Red Bull Vodka. 

Before the show started on Saturday evening, several emcees chatted about their upbringings and how they got into freestyle, as well as what they had on their minds ahead of the competition. The scene was set once the show began: Red Bull brought out the Secret Walls crew to enter a real-time live painting battle during the qualifier. Artists Ruth Burotte Tamfee (@rutamfi) and Marlon Pruz (@marlonpruz) battled it out against artists @chnkfondue and @zoegen, unveiling an emcee-inspired work of art.

Judges for the qualifier included MC Snow, Chester, and Sara Socas, with co-hosts Racso White Lion and Sonja La Makina

Sourius competes against VNZ during Red Bull Batalla Miami Qualifiers at Skatebird in Miami, Florida on 26 of August, 2023 // Ian Witlen / Red Bull Content Pool

Leading the show and accompanied by DJ Cesar’s mixing abilities at the turntable. After the emcee was crowned the winner of the Miami Regional Qualifier–with a special guest appearance by El Misionero right before the final round–a Venezuelan rapper Apache gave the crowd a closing performance. 

The fantastic weekend truly showcased the opportunity for young emcees to hone in their craft at the Red Bull Batalla and unite emcees from not only all over the country but around the world as young emcees in the United States make their way to the global stage. 

Read our interviews with AdonysX, JD, and Crown here.

And our interview with Jay_Co “El Leon” and linked here.

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EntertainmentFeaturedTV

“POWER BOOK III: RAISING KANAN”: Third Season Premire December 1, STARZ ANNOUNCES

by Julian Cannon
written by Julian Cannon

The excitement reaches a fever pitch as STARZ announces the long-awaited return of “Power Book III: Raising Kanan,” with its third season set to debut on December 1.

Fans can mark their calendars for the thrilling journey ahead, as STARZ reveals tantalizing first-look photos that offer a glimpse into the riveting narrative. The highly anticipated new episodes of “Raising Kanan” will be available for streaming on the STARZ app and on-demand platforms, while also captivating audiences on linear television in the U.S., Canada, and internationally on the LIONSGATE+ premium streaming platform in the U.K. and Ireland.

In the heart of Southside Jamaica, Queens, the main character’s tumultuous journey resumes right where it left off after season two. The aftermath of the Mob’s relentless assault on Raquel, Marvin, and Lou-Lou reverberates through the narrative, leaving emotions high and the stakes even higher.

As the captivating drama unfolds, viewers can expect the introduction of new cast members who will further enrich the storyline. Wendell Pierce and Erika Woods take on the roles of “Snaps” and “Pop” Henry, while Grantham Coleman steps into the shoes of “Ronnie.” These fresh faces join the ensemble, adding depth to the already gripping ensemble.

Returning to the screen are familiar favorites, including the incomparable Patina Miller, reprising her role as “Raquel Thomas,” and MeKai Curtis, captivating audiences once more in the titular role of “Kanan Stark.” The engaging narrative promises to explore the intricate web of relationships and challenges that continue to shape the Thomas family’s destiny.

As anticipation builds, “Power Book III: Raising Kanan” is gearing up for a new chapter filled with twists, turns, and unmissable moments. With the premiere date locked in, fans can look forward to being transported back into the vibrant and gritty world of Queens, where loyalties are tested, alliances shift, and the pursuit of power knows no bounds.

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FeaturedTV

Power Book IV: Force Season 2, Episode 1 Review

by Julian Cannon
written by Julian Cannon

In the highly anticipated second season of Power Book IV: Force, there are no brakes on the thrilling ride that awaits.

Tommy Egan, now a hunted man, faces threats from both the Flynn family and the relentless police force, the stakes are higher than ever. His unexpected alliance with a key character from the previous season proves to be a perfect match, adding layers of intrigue to the unfolding narrative.

This season takes a creative turn by using social media as a covert tool for product promotion, showcasing the dealers’ inventive methods of spreading their message. However, the consequences that accompany this approach promise a gripping journey throughout the rest of the season.

The sibling rivalry between Jenard and Diamond escalates, adding an exciting dynamic to the storyline. Both characters undergo substantial development, especially Jenard, who transforms from a one-dimensional figure into a driven individual with a compelling motive.

The early mourning of Gloria and Liliana’s deaths leaves Vic grappling with grief. The impending impact on his family dynamics, especially considering Claudia’s apprehension about Tommy, adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding drama. The ominous threat to the Dahlia recipe intensifies the suspense.

Tommy’s quest for justice following Liliana’s death unravels a gripping mystery, introducing new characters that promise to play pivotal roles throughout the season. The narrative unfolds seamlessly, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

Overall, the first episode of Power Book IV: Force’s second season not only meets but exceeds expectations. The core cast delivers exceptional performances, with every line and scene feeling remarkably natural and authentic. The episode leaves audiences eagerly expecting more, setting the stage for an exhilarating season ahead.

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EventsFeaturedLifestyle

Bryan Greenberg and Jamie Chung Host G.H. Mumm Perfect Pairing Event in the Hamptons

by Sanjana Sarna
written by Sanjana Sarna

Bryan Greenberg and Jamie Chung hosted a splendid evening of champagne indulgence, christening the “Perfect Pairing,” courtesy of G.H.Mumm Champagne. The event unfolded at the charming Sunset Beach in the Hamptons on August 16, 2023. Attendees were treated to an intimate gathering featuring champagne tasting, caviar delights, and the breathtaking allure of sunsets.

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AutomotiveFeaturedLifestyle

I Spent a Weekend with Ford’s Largest and Most Unruly

by Ishan Wankavala
written by Ishan Wankavala

When you picture a pickup truck, it is typically in its natural habitat: on a road snaking through a cornfield, carrying bales of hay, or hauling metal beams from a construction site, or towing a trailer filled with cows. At least that’s what I imagine it to be doing, anyway, considering how I have never really used such a vehicle before. In any case, it’s definitely not parked in suburban Queens, NYC, with me, a skinny city kid with no use for such a vehicle whatsoever, sitting in the driver seat, staring in awe at the dials and switches on the console like I was being suddenly asked to pilot a WWII aircraft. Yet, here I was, and there it was, and I was absolutely loving it. I would be able to use this Ford F-150 Raptor 4×4 Supercrew for a whole weekend, and take it wherever and use for whatever. The possibilities were endless. So this is not going to be a review of what it’s like to use this truck for work, or how it increases productivity, or what’s under the hood, or horsepower or torque. Oh no. This will be a review of what it’s like for someone who has no knowledge of these things whatsoever, probably won’t care about these things, and who will most likely never live in a place or do anything that would practically require such a truck.

First impressions were impressive. I was just blown away by the sheer size of it, a behemoth of a vehicle. The wheelwell came all the way up to my bellybutton, and even just seeing the whole vehicle required me to step back a couple of feet. Painted in a bright orange paint, it was immediately noticeable, and stole the show from any of my neighbor’s puny Kias and Teslas. Climbing into it required hoisting yourself up using the built-in pull handle just inside the door, and stepping onto the metal stepper. Sitting within, I was immediately struck by how high I actually was. I was looking at the roofs of SUVs as they passed by, peeping at the bald spots of their drivers for the first time. The cabin within was exceptionally comfortable, with ample space for the driver, passenger, and anyone in the rear seats (from overwhelming positive receptions). A spacious interior was to be expected, however; what wasn’t were the myriad of tech features. CarPlay and Android Auto were wireless and seamless, and dash controls, power management, and comfort settings were all extensive and highly customizable, all ready for 2024 and beyond.

Pondering what my first stop would be, I first decided to drive to the houses of a couple of my buddies, and convince them that I had just bought a brand new truck. Driving the truck was a whole challenge in and of itself. I had to retrain my mind to account for the massive size of the body, and readjust my knowledge of where I believed the right side of the vehicle was and how close I would be to parked cars. It was extremely stressful, and very close to what I imagine it would feel like to drive a blimp down a small two-way street. Once I got the hang of it, I arrived at my friends’ houses, and put on the performance of my lifetime (“I had to take out three loans, but it was worth it! Yeah okay, so what if it only gets 12 miles per gallon and I’m not a contractor?”) After their bouts of jealously and of disbelief that I had done something so financially cavalier, I headed to my local gym, where I knew several muscle bros hung out in the parking lot in their slightly smaller trucks, spewing masculinity upon the afraid and undeserving. I pulled into the lot and drove past, specifically setting my exhaust settings to Sport to achieve the most massive rumble, and got a kick out of the look on their faces. There was a new big dog in town (for the next two days).

I decided to plan a miniature road trip with some of my homies to get the full American experience out of the truck, and we couldn’t decide on anything more American than an afternoon at a gun range. We found one in the less-liberal state of Pennsylvania that allowed us to rent a couple firearms without a license, and set on our way. Blasting music for hours, we were astounded by the quality of the truck’s superior surround-sound speaker setup (say that three times fast). We put on Travis Scott’s new Utopia album, and were amazed at the smallest intricacies and details in the tracks that we had completely missed on other listens. It was like we were finally hearing the album the way La Flame had intended, and cuts like Hyaena filled our ears with pure, unadulterated sound. Kanye’s Yeezus was next, and the speaker setup became one of my favorite features from the truck.

A late-night photoshoot

Later at night when we were returning, and driving through lonely and foggy Pennsylvania forests, the truck’s features really began shining, literally and figuratively. One of the best was an adaptive high beam, which only turned on when we needed it around low-visibility turns or steep hills. The multitude of cameras on the vehicle also helped immensely, as we were able to see all around us at all times, including the bed of the pickup. I felt extremely self aware, and finally felt like a pro at parking. The weekend was also filled with several realizations, such as how embedded in car culture trucks really are. We were stopped by several other pickup truck drivers, who gaped at our setup and asked how powerful our rig was and how much we paid for it (which we obviously didn’t know the answer to.) I also connected several dots after I realized the rear flap that opened was called a tailgate (“Like the party? Like when someone gets too close behind you while driving??!”) I of course realized that I had been the ignorant one in terms of the origin of words.

The weekend ended up being an incredible one. Getting the opportunity to use such a hardy vehicle simply for entertainment without having to purchase it is a rare one, and I valued every second with it. Between having the McDonald’s drive thru operator hand us our food by stretching himself up to our extremely high window, and my friend messaging me at 6am in the morning asking if I could please help him transport several huge packages he absolutely needed to drop off at UPS within the hour, every experience was amazing and I truly appreciated how the Ford F-150 got us through it all. An extremely powerful vehicle with off-road capabilities and an incredible road presence, if this Raptor was made with all of the bang but without the pickup aspect and without the $115k price tag, I would love to give it a try again and possibly even purchase one in the future (I’m looking at you, Bronco.)

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FeaturedMusic

Rellz Talks ‘Best Kept Secret’ and Working With Beyoncé

by Bianca Alysse
written by Bianca Alysse

Ascending R&B star Rellz is making his rounds following the success of the inaugural Paramount Music Showcase, and the Long Island native is bringing nostalgic love songs to his listeners. Born Terrell Kiser, 28, the New York University Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music graduate has been preparing for his moment and learning from business icons.  

“My love for music began as a means to entertain people. My mother’s family is Haitian. Caribbean folks have a different way of turning up. They helped me navigate my musical gifts, but it was not until I got into NYU that I was actively around people in the industry,” the singer explained. 

Honoring his dancer mother, who studied ballet, jazz and hip-hop, Rellz followed in her footsteps by beginning dance lessons at the age of 12. And though he also took an interest in the trumpet during his formative years, singing Chris Brown songs to girls on a school bus transitioned his path toward educational achievements, which broke barriers in the Tri-state area. “My friends said, ‘Oh, my God! You sound great. You need to join the chorus,'” Rellz laughed. After auditioning for his school’s music teacher, Rellz set a course for advanced placements academically and a teenaged viral song cover that preceded an acceptance letter into his dream institution. 

As a freshman, the crooner won a collegiate competition covering Rihanna’s song “Diamonds” with his peers. This student experience reminded Rellz of his professor’s lectures on the power of collaboration and even led to him meeting Rihanna on her Diamonds World Tour. In time, that feat became a talking point during his introduction to his mentor — Roc Nation’s marketing director, Bianca Edwards. 

“I may not have seen it at the time, but each opportunity opened the door for the next. Some of my darkest moments in the city illuminated my brightest moments musically,” Rellz detailed. “Little by little, I found my way. That is the thing about being consistent on social media — you never know who is watching.”

A scouting director contacted him via Instagram DM concerning a forthcoming video shoot. Upon arriving at his first casting, Rellz did not know who he would be dancing for — until an undeniable voice came through speakers. “I couldn’t believe it,” he said. The remake of The Lion King was in theaters, and The Lion King: The Gift soundtrack was making waves internationally alongside Parkwood Entertainment and Columbia Records. The woman at the helm of its creative vision was Beyoncé. And with this, Rellz’s life changed on set.

The Knockturnal caught up with Rellz to discuss life after his songwriting mentorship with Katie Vinten of Columbia Records, what he learned while recording Best Kept Secret, and how he hopes to bring people together through feel-good artistry.

The Knockturnal: Your new album Best Kept Secret is on streaming service platforms. What went into bringing this 10-track release to fruition?

Rellz: The majority of Best Kept Secret was inspired by where I have been personally for the past year and a half. I wanted to hone in on my sound. I wanted to give more authenticity. The album is something that feels like me now. It feels good. I have been releasing music independently since 2017.

Within these past couple of years, I have hit my stride. I am saying things I want to say and curating a new vibe. This project is a reintroduction to fans and a place where they can return and have a home base. This [exemplifies] what my sound can potentially be.

The Knockturnal: What led you to music?

Rellz: Music was something I was having fun with. I started off rapping. I was dancing a lot. I listened to Michael Jackson, Chris Brown, and Usher when I was younger. When I got to high school, I started to find things I could call my own.

I had a friend who knew I was singing in the chorus. He encouraged me to take it a bit more seriously. It ended up becoming an outlet for me. It enabled me to have my own therapy with the process of all that was [happening] around me. Music gave me a voice and purpose.

The Knockturnal: How did NYU’s Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music program aid you?

Rellz: It aided in a big way. It placed me in the same rooms as some of the best creatives from around the country. Some kids were trying to look at music the same way I was. My peers did not want to make music a hobby! They were trying to figure out how they could sustain themselves off of music.

We know how risky the business is. A program like Clive’s is good for putting you in the same rooms and conversations as like-minded people. From a macro lens, my education helped me better understand who I was as an artist. I knew my brand and who I could potentially compete with. It made me think about music beyond saying, “I like how this sounds.”

The Knockturnal: Describe your time on the “ALREADY” set.

Rellz: The “ALREADY” set was life-changing. It was spiritual because, at the time it happened, I saw it as a sign from God. I needed to keep putting my two feet forward. It was eye-opening because I witnessed Beyoncé’s work ethic and star power. I got a taste of why she is who she is and how Beyoncé obtained the impact that she [has]. I met other young men in the area that I did not meet until leaving NYU.

They are also prominent within the New York space in terms of being creative in the arts, and their energy was high. Before coming, we had no blueprint for what the music video would look like. The information we were given beforehand was unrelated to how the video came out. It was good to be in a situation where you work on the fly.

You had to stay present and maintain a certain level of focus and confidence. I was on the set for 12 hours. I feel like somebody who is not hip to how that day could go or what this industry brings; it could have been a breaking point for a lot of people. Having a large group of guys around me and being on the same page allowed us to encourage each other.

The Knockturnal: For context, can you speak on the breaking point you acknowledged? From your perspective, would you say that adaptation is essential within the music business?

Rellz: Yes, it is like what you are saying, being adaptive. You have to be knowledgeable. In the role I served, I was just a dancer. I could not get hung up on [timing]. I can only speak for myself as an artist and creative, but when you are in a situation like that, someone [else] is the musical priority. They are the prize, especially someone on her level. 

You have to find ways to be confident in what you are doing and read the room. You have to be able to say, “Oh! Okay, they seem to be trying to get this kind of energy. So, maybe I should try to curve my approach here.” On another end, you learn to be more vocal. Because I knew so many people were there, I told myself, “Remember to advocate for yourself.”

The Knockturnal: What would you like new listeners to know about you?

Rellz: I would love new listeners to know I am 100% dedicated to this and life in general. I am figuring it out! I am trying to find the best way to communicate what I have learned to the people around me. 

I want to communicate in a way that is tangible musically and on a human level. I want people to connect. I feel like everything I do is to inspire and motivate. I look outside of myself with this art.

The Knockturnal: How did you become involved with the inaugural Paramount Music Showcase?

Rellz: That was brought by one of my friends. He heard about the showcase. At the time, we had a batch of music that we were getting a great response on. Essentially, this led to my new project. Yes, we were getting good feedback. So, we decided to take a step forward and try to apply for a slot. That has been the story of my life. 

Even with the Beyoncé shoot, that was not something I had planned. It happened by someone messaging me. I did not know too much about it. Again, it is always my inner compass. [The showcase] worked out where we were contacted by Paramount about a month after we had applied. 

Once we were chosen, it was pretty much set. I am truly grateful to the Paramount staff and the MTV staff. Bianca Edwards helped me focus on my live show. I reflected on how my childhood inspirations, Chris Brown, Usher, and Ne-Yo, set me on my path. So, she gave me the idea to do an introductory monologue to convey my journey better.

The Knockturnal: What is en route with Best Kept Secret?

Rellz: I have more videos coming out. I want to do more shows in the next couple of months. Best Kept Secret is just me opening up the world of Rellz. I think it is the start of a fun few years. I am excited.

The project was an introductory step for me. I have more projects coming later this year. I want to get more momentum and keep the ball rolling. I am taking my time to really introduce myself to one fan at a time for what I believe will be a long time here.

 

 

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