February 21, 2025 (Atlanta, GA) — WHATUPRG’s latest track, “Z99”, has quickly gained viral success in Mexico and across Latin America, making waves with its innovative blend of traditional corridos and contemporary sound. The single not only reinvents a classic style but also delivers a message of positivity and redemption.
The anticipated song was inspired by his trip to Guatemala with the non-profit International Justice Mission, which focused on protecting vulnerable communities from violence. Grounded in Zechariah 9:9, the piece reflects resilience and hope, themes drawn from his experiences with trafficking survivors.
“Z99” also positions WHATUPRG to deepen his bond with the Latin audience and expand his reach as an influential voice. More than just a song, it’s a declaration of strength, paving the way for a new chapter in his artistry.
Over the past few days, the singer-songwriter traveled to Mexico City, where he had a series of meaningful encounters. From a press tour with key media outlets like TV Azteca, MVS, Grupo 7, CBN, and more, to an exclusive pop-up event, he’s been actively promoting “Z99” and making his mark in the Mexican industry. This milestone reflects the intentional creation of cultural resources and music that have brought him to the country, connecting with both the partners and figures who have supported his journey and the loyal community that has consistently stood by him.
This trip became even more memorable when he performed the song live for the first time, following a set of his most successful tracks, a Q&A, and meet-and-greet with around 100 fans. “Mexico City has been wonderful. Meeting all the fans, meeting all the people who support us here, has been a dream come true,” shared the artist with gratitude. “People have been asking me “hey, when are you coming to Mexico?” And well, finally meeting everyone and hearing their stories has been an honor. Memories that I will always carry with me.”
The reactions have been overwhelming, especially since WHATUPRG announced the release and engaged with his followers on social media, who played a role in choosing the single’s cover art. The teaser garnered 1 million views in less than a week, adding to the excitement of this one-of-a-kind performance. He hopes to “return soon with more dates and more music to give it my all. Mexico is amazing!”
During his stay in Mexico, the artist also visited Santa Martha Acatitla, a women’s penitentiary, where he shared music and uplifting conversations, offering encouragement and a moment of evangelism, love, and light in a space often overlooked.
ABOUT WHATUPRG
WHATUPRG, born Raul Garcia, is a Mexican American artist signed to Reach Records and a trailblazer in faith-based music. Known for his innovative blend of hip-hop, raw authenticity, and his Latin heritage and unique creative aesthetic, RG has built a loyal global following through hits like “Drip Lee,” “God Made A Way,” and “PRAISE.” His music, which has gone viral across social media platforms, transcends traditional genre boundaries while carrying a deeply spiritual and personal message. As a first-generation Mexican American, RG brings a unique cultural perspective to his art, infusing his lyrics and visuals with themes of faith, identity, and resilience. This perspective allows him to connect with listeners across the Western Hemisphere, from the United States to Latin America, where his influence continues to grow. Beyond viral singles and sold-out shows, RG is on a mission to change the narrative around Christian art, striving to make it widely viewed as the greatest art in the world. His authenticity, bold vision, and commitment to his faith challenge stereotypes and inspire fans to see art as a reflection of the Creator’s greatness. Whether through his music, visuals, or live performances, RG seeks to push the boundaries of what faith-driven art can achieve, elevating it to new heights.
ABOUT REACH RECORDS
Reach Records is an Atlanta based independent hip-hop label founded in 2004 by Lecrae and Ben Washer. Long before acclaim, awards, plaques, chart positioning, and radio play, the two started the label because they both love hip-hop and Jesus. Reach Records was launched with no strategy, no funds, no big players, but they made big moves! Today Reach Records is a trailblazing label with a roster of nearly 10 artists and a staff of 20 who are unashamed about sharing their faith and passionate about hip-hop. Reach Records is committed to building a movement that combines faith with music and popular culture.
Tamara Young-McCoy is the founder of ArtSoul Konnect Entertainment Media, home to ArtSoulRadio.com, and a Radio Host/Journalist whose work has appeared in Ebony, Jet, Blavity, and other publications. With a background in TV, film, and digital media, she is dedicated to bridging faith, culture, and entertainment through storytelling and media innovation. She is passionate about mentoring young creatives, amplifying diverse voices, and advancing the Christian music industry while expanding its mainstream reach. Follow her on social media or learn more at www.tamarayoungmccoy.com.
After a three-city string of private listening events and insightful new interview with Sway In The Morning, Miami’s own Aklesso unveils his deeply personal album Still Lonely, released via Rodney Jerkins’ Alienz Alive. A follow-up to his praised 2024 album Lonely, the project solidifies him as one of Hip-Hop’s most honest storytellers.
Produced by Okay.Benny, William Soolua, and GLEECE, Still Lonely is a vulnerable, atmospheric exploration of fatherhood, faith, abandonment, and generational healing. The album expands the emotional universe introduced through his recent singles, including the Lecrae-collaborated single “Lonely” and the Darrel Jones–directed “Range!” featuring 1K Phew.
Listen to Still Lonely in its entirety below and watch his intimate conversation with Darkchild below:
“Aklesso’s story, his culture, and his sound all carry a weight that this generation needs to hear. From Miami to Haiti to the global stage, he’s not just making records, he’s making an impact. At Alienz Alive, we’re about building legacy, and Aklesso embodies that. I couldn’t be more excited to walk this journey with him.”
The Haitian lyricist, Aklesso, shares:
“This is the most honest project I’ve ever made. It’s not about perfect answers, it’s about presence. It’s about realizing God was with me even in the moments I felt the most alone.”
Be sure to stream and purchase this latest release – Now Available everywhere where music is sold.
Aklesso and Jon Keith — both artists signed to legendary producer Rodney Jerkins’ label Alienz Alive — have released fresh visuals for their collaborative single, “Freedom.” The record blends hard-hitting Hip Hop energy with smooth, melodic vocals, creating a sound that feels emotionally raw while remaining sonically intentional.
While both artists are often categorized as Hip Hop, Freedom exists beyond strict genre lines. The collaboration reflects a layered musical identity — Hip Hop at its core, but shaped by vulnerability, reflection, and a willingness to confront real-life struggles head-on.
At the heart of Freedom is a conversation many artists — and listeners — are quietly having: how do you break generational cycles without becoming consumed by them?
Aklesso’s verses pull listeners into an unfiltered space, addressing trauma, fear, and mental health battles that often go unspoken. Lines wrestling with destiny, survival, and internal conflict give the song its emotional weight, while the repeated declaration — “Promise you, promise God, I will never repeat the trauma” — stands as both a confession and a commitment. It’s not framed as perfection, but as responsibility.
Jon Keith’s chorus offers balance and resolve, reframing freedom as something that requires intention and partnership. “There’s freedom if we try… if we fight” positions healing as an active process — one that involves effort, faith, and community rather than isolation. The repeated refrain, “It’s you and I,” underscores the idea that freedom isn’t achieved alone.
The visuals echo that same tension between struggle and hope. Clean, focused imagery allows the message to lead, reinforcing the song’s core theme: freedom is not just personal — it’s generational. Choosing healing today shapes what gets passed on tomorrow.
In a cultural moment where conversations around mental health, faith, and generational healing are becoming more urgent, “Freedom” lands as more than a collaboration. It’s a statement — one rooted in honesty, faith, and the courage to choose a different path forward.
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE:
WATCH: ArtSoul Radio’s Exclusive Interview with Aklesso & Jon Keith on “Freedom”
Chicago was the backdrop for a moment you couldn’t script any better: GRAMMY®, Dove, and Stellar Award-winning powerhouse Jonathan McReynolds linking arms with American Idol Season 23 winner Jamal Roberts to deliver a live ballad that hits straight to the soul. Their new single, “Still,” isn’t just another worship record—it’s a reminder that God’s love is the one thing that doesn’t shift when life does.
Recorded live in McReynolds’ hometown, the song is lifted from his forthcoming project Closer—an album already carrying heavy anticipation. What unfolds in “Still” is classic Jonathan: heartfelt storytelling, layered with rich theology, now elevated by Roberts’ fresh, unshaken voice.
Jonathan McReynolds has carved out a lane few can touch—an artist who makes Gospel feel as real as your group chat confessions. His catalog has always balanced honesty and worship, bringing Sunday morning depth into everyday playlists.
Enter Jamal Roberts: the new voice America fell in love with on American Idol. His win wasn’t just about vocal ability—it was about heart, authenticity, and the kind of presence that feels rare. Pairing him with McReynolds doesn’t just make sense; it feels prophetic. It’s the kind of intergenerational link-up that keeps Gospel fresh while honoring its roots.
The Vibe
With “Still,” Jonathan McReynolds and Jamal Roberts don’t just give us another Gospel single—they give us a soundtrack for resilience. It’s raw, it’s soulful, and it’s proof that the future of faith-based music is in good hands. Expect this one to be on repeat long after the Stellars.