Tag Archives: Eddy “Precise” Lamarre

Young Thug’s Plea Deal Collapses; Prosecutors Now Seek 25-Year Prison Sentence

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By Eddy “Precise” Lamarre

In a dramatic turn of events, Atlanta rapper Young Thug, born Jeffery Williams, was on the verge of securing a plea deal that would have granted him immediate release from jail under a 15-year probation agreement. However, negotiations faltered over the conditions of his release, prompting prosecutors to now advocate for a 25-year prison sentence.

Plea Deal Negotiations Breakdown

The plea deal, which had been meticulously negotiated over several weeks, aimed to resolve the charges against Williams stemming from a sweeping indictment in May 2022. The indictment accused him and 27 others of violating Georgia’s Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, alleging involvement in a criminal street gang known as Young Slime Life (YSL). Williams has consistently maintained that YSL is a record label, Young Stoner Life, and not a criminal enterprise.

Sources close to the negotiations revealed that the primary sticking point was the specific conditions of Williams’ probation. While both parties had tentatively agreed on the 15-year probation term, disagreements arose regarding travel restrictions, community service obligations, and associations with certain individuals. These unresolved issues ultimately led to the collapse of the plea agreement.

Prosecutors Seek Lengthy Prison Term

In light of the failed negotiations, prosecutors have shifted their stance, now recommending a 25-year prison sentence for Williams. This development marks a significant escalation in the potential consequences he faces if convicted. The prosecution’s decision underscores their commitment to pursuing substantial penalties in cases involving alleged gang-related activities.

Trial Proceedings and Co-Defendant Pleas

The trial, which commenced in January 2023, has been marked by numerous delays and legal maneuvers. Jury selection alone spanned nearly ten months, making it one of the longest trials in Georgia’s history. Throughout the proceedings, several co-defendants have opted to accept plea deals, resulting in reduced sentences in exchange for their cooperation.

Notably, on October 30, 2024, co-defendants Rodalius Ryan and Marquavius Huey entered guilty pleas to reduced charges. Ryan, already serving a life sentence for a separate murder conviction, pleaded guilty to a single count of conspiracy to violate the RICO Act. His ten-year sentence was commuted to time served, aligning with his existing life sentence. Huey pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including racketeering conspiracy and aggravated assault, receiving a 25-year sentence with nine years to be served in prison and the remainder on probation. citeturn0news18

These plea deals have left Williams and two other defendants as the remaining individuals standing trial. The prosecution’s strategy appears to focus on securing convictions against the primary figures alleged to have orchestrated the criminal activities attributed to YSL.

Defense’s Position and Public Reaction

Williams’ defense team has consistently argued that YSL is a legitimate music label and that the charges against their client are unfounded. They contend that the prosecution’s case relies heavily on circumstantial evidence and the testimonies of co-defendants seeking leniency.

The collapse of the plea deal and the subsequent push for a lengthy prison sentence have elicited strong reactions from the public and the hip-hop community. Supporters of Williams have organized protests, calling for an end to the trial and alleging that the charges are an overreach by law enforcement targeting prominent Black artists. citeturn0search8

Next Steps in the Legal Process

With the plea deal off the table, the trial is set to proceed, with both sides preparing for the next phase of legal arguments. The defense is expected to challenge the credibility of cooperating witnesses and the validity of the prosecution’s evidence. Meanwhile, the prosecution will aim to establish a clear link between Williams and the alleged criminal activities of YSL.

As the trial continues, the outcome remains uncertain. However, the recent developments have significantly raised the stakes for Williams, who now faces the possibility of spending a substantial portion of his life behind bars if convicted.

This article will be updated as more information becomes available.

Lil’ WeezyCon to Kick Off November 2, Expanding Lil WeezyAna Fest with a New Networking Platform

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By Eddy “Precise” Lamarre

On November 2, 2024, Live Nation Urban, in partnership with Culture Creators, will debut Lil’ WeezyCon—a dynamic addition to the annual Lil WeezyAna Fest in New Orleans. The inaugural event will take place at The Fillmore from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering high-level networking opportunities with thought leaders, creatives, artists, and young professionals.

The event encourages participation from college students, high school seniors, and community organizations, providing a platform to connect with industry leaders in sectors they aspire to join. Designed with empowerment in mind, Lil’ WeezyCon will feature professionals in entertainment and entrepreneurship who will share their expertise and insights. Students from Dillard University are taking part in producing the event, with volunteers from LSU, Xavier University, and other local schools helping ensure it has a lasting impact throughout the city.

Tickets for the event are free, and college students with a valid ID will receive VIP access.

“We knew we wanted to do something special with this year’s festival, and tapping the Culture Creators Foundation to help us create Lil’ WeezyCon felt like the perfect way to engage the community and bring college students into the mix,” said Brandon Pankey, Vice President of Live Nation Urban. “This partnership allows us to expand beyond music and create an experience that leaves a lasting impact on young professionals and emerging creators.”

Industry leaders from Amazon, Ebony, and SoundExchange will be among those offering insights to attendees through panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions. Topics on deck include music industry trends, media representation, and its cultural impact.

Lil’ WeezyCon will conclude with the Lil WeezyAna Fest Thank You Brunch on Sunday, November 3, at 10 a.m. at the House of Blues in New Orleans.

For more information and to register, visit www.lilweezyanafest.com.

Tyler, The Creator Returns With His Most Personal Album Yet on ‘CHROMAKOPIA’

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By Eddy “Precise” Lamarre

In an era where music drops like confetti on New Year’s Eve, Tyler, The Creator chose a Monday morning to gift the world “CHROMAKOPIA”, his most introspective and sonically ambitious project to date. The unconventional release time – reminiscent of the bygone Super Tuesday era – proved strategic, allowing fans to live with the music rather than rush through it during the weekend chaos. The strategy paid off; the album currently sits at No. 1 across all genres on Apple Music.

From the opening notes, it’s clear Tyler hasn’t just evolved – he’s ascended. The production on “CHROMAKOPIA” is nothing short of masterful, with layered instrumentation that rewards repeated listens. In an age where the bridge has become a lost art in music composition, Tyler deliberately weaves them throughout the project, creating textural depth that’s been sorely missed in contemporary hip-hop.

On “Thought I Was Dead,” Tyler channels Kendrick Lamar’s delivery while maintaining his distinctive voice, showcasing a technical prowess that proves he’s still pushing his boundaries as an MC. His flow switches are calculated and purposeful, each one serving the narrative rather than showing off for sport.

But it’s the personal revelations that make “CHROMAKOPIA” a watershed moment in Tyler’s discography. His mother appears throughout the album via interludes, dropping wisdom like bread crumbs leading to the album’s emotional core. On the gut-wrenching “Like Him,” Tyler confronts the void left by his absent father, while his mother offers an unprecedented apology for keeping his father at arm’s length. It’s a rare moment of vulnerability from an artist who’s typically guarded about this particular pain point, despite his well-documented close relationship with his mother.

The featured artists on “CHROMAKOPIA” feel less like guests and more like carefully chosen collaborators in Tyler’s vision. Daniel Caesar, Teezo Touchdown, Childish Gambino, GloRilla, Sexyy Red, Lil Wayne, ScHoolboy Q, and Doechii each bring their unique flavors to the table. The standout collaboration comes from Doechii on “Balloon,” where she delivers what can only be described as beautiful aggression, her energy perfectly complementing the track’s ambitious production.

“Take Your Mask Off” emerges as an early fan favorite, while “Judge Judy” showcases Tyler’s signature wit and wordplay. “Sticky,” featuring the powerhouse combination of GloRilla, Sexyy Red, and Lil Wayne, demonstrates Tyler’s ability to curate unexpected yet perfect collaborations.

The album’s title, “CHROMAKOPIA”, seems to reflect its nature – a spectrum of emotions, sounds, and experiences that paint a complete picture of an artist at his peak. The meticulous attention to storytelling, coupled with moments of raw vulnerability, positions this album not just as one of Tyler’s best works but as one of 2024’s strongest musical offerings.

When Tyler, The Creator first emerged as the wild-eyed leader of Odd Future, few could have predicted this level of artistic maturity. “CHROMAKOPIA” isn’t just an album; it’s a testament to growth, both personal and artistic. It’s the work of someone who’s mastered their craft while remaining unafraid to expose their scars.

What Tyler has created here isn’t just music – it’s a masterclass in vulnerability, production, and artistic evolution. As 2024 draws to a close, “CHROMAKOPIA” stands as a monumental achievement from an artist who continues to push himself and his art form forward.

Lil Durk Charged in Murder-for-Hire Plot: Chicago Rap Star’s Empire on the Brink

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Grammy Winner Faces Federal Investigation Amid a Violent Legacy

Chicago drill icon Lil Durk, born Durk Devontay Banks, has been arrested in Broward County, Florida, in connection with a murder-for-hire scheme. The shocking development comes just days after the rapper held a “Day of Prayer” in Chicago and received keys to the cities of Broadview and Bellwood, leaving the public stunned at the dramatic fall of one of rap’s biggest stars.

Federal authorities charged several members of Only The Family (OTF), Durk’s notorious collective, in the killing of a close relative of rapper Quando Rondo—a move the feds suggest was retaliation for the 2020 murder of King Von, Durk’s protégé and longtime friend. Von, whose real name was Dayvon Bennett, was gunned down in Atlanta, setting off a series of violent events that have escalated tensions within Chicago’s drill music scene and beyond.

The arrest on October 24 is the latest chapter in the saga of a rapper who has achieved both mainstream success and infamy in equal measure. Over the past two years, Durk has solidified his place in the industry with multiple platinum records and a Grammy win. Yet, his rapid ascent has been shadowed by relentless street conflicts that intertwine music, loyalty, and revenge.

A Tale of Violence and Vengeance
The allegations against Durk go deeper than just one murder. He now faces a civil lawsuit filed earlier this month, accusing him of orchestrating a plot to kill FBG Duck—another rapper whose death sent shockwaves through Chicago’s streets. Duck, born Carlton Weekly, was murdered in a brazen, daylight ambush in the Gold Coast neighborhood in 2020. According to attorney Roosevelt Allen, the lawsuit claims a $100,000 bounty was placed on Duck’s life, raising questions about just how far Durk’s influence reaches beyond the mic.

Duck’s murder has haunted Chicago’s drill community, with his mother, LaSheena Weekly, tirelessly demanding justice. The tension between Tookaville, where Duck was affiliated, and O Block, home to many of Durk’s allies, has turned into a deadly rivalry played out through music, social media, and the streets. Many believe King Von’s death further fueled this feud, leading to the retaliatory attack that now ensnares Durk in a federal investigation.

From City Honors to a Jail Cell
Durk’s arrest comes at a time when he appeared to be turning a new leaf. Just days before his apprehension, he hosted a public prayer event in Chicago, signaling a shift towards peace. Receiving keys to the cities of Broadview and Bellwood seemed to mark the beginning of a new chapter for the rapper—but the celebrations were short-lived.

The federal investigation has exposed the dark undercurrents of Chicago’s drill scene, where music often serves as both art and a battlefield. For years, Durk has walked the fine line between mainstream acclaim and street affiliations. Now, that balancing act appears to be crumbling under the weight of federal scrutiny.

Durk’s legal troubles add to the growing concerns over the drill genre’s impact on rising violence. The case against him and the OTF crew highlights the blurring of lines between artistry and street justice, forcing a reckoning within the rap community. As authorities untangle the web of revenge and retaliation, Durk’s future—and the fate of his empire—hangs in the balance.

This is a developing story.

Kamala Harris Unveils Ambitious ‘Opportunity Agenda’ for Black Men

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The plan proposes $20,000 forgivable loans to help Black entrepreneurs overcome systemic barriers.

Vice President Kamala Harris announced a comprehensive plan Monday aimed at addressing economic and social challenges facing Black men in America. The initiative, dubbed the “Opportunity Agenda for Black Men,” outlines a series of proposals designed to boost entrepreneurship, expand access to education and job training, and tackle health disparities.

Central to the plan is a commitment to provide 1 million forgivable loans of up to $20,000 each to Black entrepreneurs and others who have faced historical barriers to starting or growing businesses. The initiative aims to partner with mission-driven lenders and community-focused banks to distribute these funds.

“For too long, Black men have felt their voices go unheard in our political process,” Harris said in a statement. “This agenda is about unleashing the untapped ambition and leadership within the Black male community.”

The vice president’s plan also includes:

  • Expanding pathways to good-paying jobs in high-demand industries, with a focus on those not requiring a college degree
  • Creating a regulatory framework for cryptocurrency and digital assets to protect Black investors
  • Launching a National Health Equity Initiative addressing conditions that disproportionately affect Black men, such as sickle cell disease and prostate cancer
  • Legalizing recreational marijuana nationwide and creating opportunities for Black Americans in the emerging cannabis industry

Critics argue the plan’s scope may face challenges in Congress, while supporters praise its comprehensive approach to longstanding issues.

The announcement follows Harris’s nationwide Economic Opportunity Tour, during which she engaged with Black entrepreneurs about obstacles they face in accessing capital and growing their businesses.

Harris contrasted her agenda with former President Donald Trump’s record, citing job losses and business closures among Black Americans during his administration. The vice president’s campaign emphasized that a potential second Trump term could reverse recent economic gains for Black families.

As the 2024 election approaches, Harris’s plan represents a significant outreach to Black male voters, a demographic that has shown varying levels of support for Democrats in recent elections.

Political analysts note that the success of such initiatives could play a crucial role in key battleground states where Black voter turnout may decide tight races.

-Eddy “Precise” Lamarre

“When The Sun Shines Again”: The Visual Masterpiece Behind Common and Pete Rock’s Latest Hit

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Hip-hop heavyweights Common and Pete Rock are riding high on the success of their first full-length collaboration, “The Auditorium, Vol. 1.” The duo recently dropped a fresh video for “When The Sun Shines Again,” a standout track from the album released this summer to critical acclaim.

The visually striking clip, helmed by directors Marleaux Desire and ILLIMITEWORD, features guest appearances from neo-soul crooner Bilal and De La Soul’s Posdnuos. It’s the latest in a series of videos showcasing the album’s artistic vision, with Pete Rock’s signature boom-bap production providing the sonic backdrop.

Common and Rock wrapped up their 19-stop “The Auditorium Tour” last Friday with a bang, packing New York City’s Webster Hall. The tour’s finale capped off a whirlwind week in the Big Apple, which included a sold-out three-night, six-show residency at the iconic Blue Note Jazz Club.

The pair’s creative synergy hasn’t gone unnoticed by the industry. They recently snagged four BET Hip Hop Awards nominations, including nods for “Best Duo Group” and “Impact Track” for their socially conscious joint “Fortunate.” Common’s razor-sharp wordplay earned him a “Lyricist of the Year” nomination, while Pete Rock’s masterful beats landed him in the running for “Producer of the Year.”

“The Auditorium, Vol. 1,” out now on Loma Vista Recordings, marks a high point in both artists’ storied careers. Common’s introspective rhymes and Pete Rock’s soul-drenched production create a perfect storm of old-school authenticity and contemporary relevance.

Two of the genre’s most respected veterans serves as a potent reminder of rap’s enduring power. With “The Auditorium, Vol. 1,” Common and Pete Rock aren’t just nodding to hip-hop’s past – they’re carving out its future.

Watch Common and Pete Rock’s ‘Dreamin’’ Video and Catch Them on Their U.S. Tour

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Today, Common and Pete Rock released the music video for “Dreamin’”—watch it HERE. The video, filmed in New York City, features both artists alongside a collection of personal home videos from Common’s career, offering fans a unique glimpse into his life. It includes rare clips with legends like J Dilla, Dr. Maya Angelou, and Queen Latifah, as well as intimate moments with his daughter, family, and friends. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Raven Jackson and produced by Kristian King, Pulse Films, and There We Go Films, the video beautifully captures the theme of dreams becoming real and the song’s heartfelt vibe.

Tomorrow, Common and Pete Rock kick off The Auditorium Tour in Del Mar, CA, bringing their new album to life on stage. The tour includes 18 stops, hitting cities like Los Angeles, Dallas, Nashville, and Boston, before wrapping up with a three-night residency at the Blue Note Jazz Club in New York City from September 23-25.

The Auditorium Tour Dates:

  • Wed, Aug 28 – Del Mar, CA – The Sound
  • Thurs, Aug 29 – Los Angeles, CA – United Theatre
  • Fri, Aug 30 – Napa, CA – Blue Note Jazz Festival
  • Tues, Sept 3 – Tucson, AZ – Rialto Theatre
  • Fri, Sept 6 – Dallas, TX – The Echo Lounge
  • Sat, Sept 7 – Oklahoma City, OK – Tower Theatre
  • Mon, Sept 9 – Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl
  • Tues, Sept 10 – Charlotte, NC – Fillmore
  • Wed, Sept 11 – Atlanta, GA – Buckhead Theatre
  • Fri, Sept 13 – Norfolk, VA – The Norva
  • Sat, Sept 14 – Baltimore, MD – Soundstage
  • Sun, Sept 15 – Washington DC – 930 Club
  • Tues, Sept 17 – Red Bank, NJ – The Vogel
  • Wed, Sept 18 – Boston, MA – House Of Blues
  • Fri, Sept 20 – Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore
  • Mon, Sept 23 – New York, NY – Blue Note Jazz Club (2 shows per night)
  • Tues, Sept 24 – New York, NY – Blue Note Jazz Club (2 shows per night)
  • Wed, Sept 25 – New York, NY – Blue Note Jazz Club (2 shows per night)

Catch them live for a tour unlike any other!

Mayor Brandon Johnson officially designates May as Haitian Heritage Month in Chicago, celebrating the city’s rich cultural history

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In a significant stride towards recognizing the contributions of Haitian Americans, the City of Chicago has officially designated May as Haitian Heritage Month. This resolution honors the city’s founding by Jean Baptiste Point DuSable, a Haitian man, and his indigenous wife Kitihawa in 1780. Chicago, which was incorporated in 1837, now pays homage to its roots and the vibrant Haitian community within its bounds.

Mayor Brandon Johnson, in a celebratory address, remarked, “In our modern history, the city of Chicago has taken strides honoring the legacy of the incredible Jean Baptiste Point DuSable. Today, we continue to remember and uplift the contributions of Haitian Americans in our city through this resolution. This community enriches our neighborhoods, schools, local government, business, and by celebrating the culture and traditions, this is what makes Chicago stronger. It’s what makes Chicago a very vibrant place. I’m truly honored to celebrate alongside you all today and as mayor, I will always celebrate the diversity of our city.”

This new resolution is more than just a symbolic gesture; it is a testament to the enduring impact of Haitian Americans on the city’s fabric. Rolling Out reached out to Cyndee Montes Newman, Executive Director and Founding Member of Daughters of Haiti, for her insights on the importance of this recognition. Newman passionately responded, “Chicago was founded by a Haitian man. It is only natural that this city, which he built, should honor and recognize his descendants! We have done a lot of work in the city to showcase the great work of Haitian Americans today. This resolution shows the Haitian Americans living in Chicago that we are seen, that our work is recognized, and that our culture is valued. The resolution is a positive step in advancing the profile of our community in many areas and is key to continued growth as a vibrant and culturally diverse, world-class city.”

Patrick Brutus, Cyndee Montes Newman and Mayor Brandon Johnson presenting the resolution that recognizes May as Haitian Heritage Month in Chicago (Photo credit: Daughters Of Haiti)

Newman’s words highlight the significance of this recognition, especially in a time when Haiti faces political turmoil and widespread suffering. While the resolution celebrates cultural heritage, it also serves as an emblem of solidarity, with aspirations that these moments of recognition will translate into tangible support for Haitians, both locally and abroad.

The acknowledgment of Haitian Heritage Month in Chicago not only celebrates the historical significance of DuSable’s contributions but also shines a light on the current achievements and challenges of Haitian Americans. This resolution fosters a deeper appreciation of cultural diversity and strengthens the city’s commitment to inclusivity. As Chicago moves forward, the celebration of Haitian Heritage Month will undoubtedly enhance the city’s rich cultural tapestry, reaffirming the values of unity and community spirit.

Apple Music Reveals Their Top 10 Albums – and It’s Not What You’d Expect!

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After a week of building anticipation with their countdown of the top 100 albums, Apple Music has finally unveiled their list of the top 10 albums, and the results are surprising. While the usual legends make appearances, it’s Lauryn Hill’s “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” that claims the top spot. This choice might throw many for a loop, especially those who expected the likes of Michael Jackson or Stevie Wonder to dominate. Instead, Michael Jackson’s record-breaking “Thriller” sits at #2, and Stevie Wonder’s often-hailed best album of all time, “Songs in the Key of Life,” is placed at #6. These placements alone are sure to stir up controversy and conversation.

Crafting a list like this was undoubtedly a daunting task, and some of the greatest albums, like Kanye West’s “College Dropout” or “Graduation,” didn’t even make the cut.

“Putting this list together was a true labor of love, both in that it was incredibly difficult to do and in that we are all so passionate about it,” said Zane Lowe, Apple Music’s global creative director and lead anchor for Apple Music 1. “We were tasked with selecting the 100 best — that’s practically mission impossible. But as music fans, it was also amazing to really take a minute and sit and think about the music and albums and artists that we love so much in this context. If this list sparks more debate among fans outside of Apple Music and gets people talking passionately about the music they love, then we’ve done what we set out to do.”

Given her achievements, it’s not entirely shocking that Lauryn Hill would take the top spot. In 1999, she swept the GRAMMYs, taking home five awards for “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” including Album of the Year, Best R&B Album, Best New Artist, Best R&B Song, and Best Female R&B Vocal Performance – the latter two both for “Doo Wop (That Thing).” Hill has toured for nearly 30 years on the strength of one major release and continues to sell out shows.

Does Lauryn deserve the top spot? Let us know what you think. Check out Apple Music’s top 10 of the top 100 list below:

  1. The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill – Lauryn Hill
  2. Thriller – Michael Jackson
  3. Abbey Road – The Beatles
  4. Purple Rain – Prince & The Revolution
  5. Blonde – Frank Ocean
  6. Songs in the Key of Life – Stevie Wonder
  7. good kid, m.A.A.d city (Deluxe Version) – Kendrick Lamar
  8. Back to Black – Amy Winehouse
  9. Nevermind – Nirvana
  10. Lemonade – Beyoncé

Common and Pete Rock speak wise words on new single ‘Wise Up’

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Real rap is making a comeback. Off the heels of what might be the greatest rap battle ever between Drake and Kendrick Lamar (Kendrick took the win), super producer Pete Rock and the Grammy, Oscar, and Emmy award-winning Common have dropped a video for their single “Wise Up.” This track is the lead-up to a highly anticipated album from these hip-hop legends. Common has publicly said this project could be some of his best work yet.

“‘Wise Up’ represents the union of a New York producer and a Chicago MC doing the hip-hop we love. It embodies the spirit of where we come from—the boom bap, the basement—but it also feels fresh and new. We chose this as the first joint because it captures a new sound and a new light while speaking directly to our hip-hop family,” says Common.

To launch “Wise Up,” Common and Pete Rock teamed up with director Marleaux Desiré to create an inspiring and creative visual presentation. Many of the shots are in Harlem, in front of Allah School in Mecca, home of the 5% Nation. This setting strengthens the release’s message, as “Wise Up” is a mantra that brings about understanding, the best part of life.

The video captures the street-level community stories they represent in their new single, visually depicting the themes of the song. It features visual ideations from ILLIMITÉWORLD and still photography by creative director Alonzo Hellerbach.

Pete Rock says, “Working with Common was a breath of fresh air. We both connected to a higher power, which helped us tap into our greatest level of creativity. We constructed an amazing project! Common has an incredible soul, so it was easy to connect with someone on the same page as me.”