Local artist Cole Larravide calls himself indie rock but his shows are undeniably unique for their eclectic sound. Speaking with City Paper on his rising success, Larravide acknowledges “It’s the genre blending that sets us apart.” bit.ly/3XrKGOd

For these local Black entrepreneurs, promoting the culture, and making their customers feel seen, is a big part of why they do what they do. bit.ly/3DzIGLK

D.C.'s long history of Black entrepreneurship has led to a thriving Black business community, one that spans fashion, food, music, wellness, and other areas. If you're looking for places to shop during Black History month, here are some suggestions: bit.ly/3DzIGLK

Sébago Jean-Charles, a 28-year-old Haitian rapper based in Lake Arbor, Maryland released his debut EP today, Feb. 14. He views his tracks almost like love letters and tells City Paper contributor Dorvall Bedford, “Pink Tape is me at my most genuine." bit.ly/3k4jNRT

it was an honor to speak with the great, Dorvall, on the meaning of “Pink Tape” (produced by @johnnyjon_), the influence of my Haitian roots in this creation, & of course, Lake Arbor! go read the full article on @washingtoncitypaper !

On Valentine’s Day, Sébago Jean-Charles, a Haitian rapper based in Lake Arbor, Maryland, released his EP, Pink Tape. The album is a collection of love songs that, for him, function almost like love letters. Dorvall Bedford profiles the artist at the link. bit.ly/3k4jNRT

Coming off his March 3 release of “GARDEN,” Darius Johnson, known as DaJohn, plays at the Selina hotel in Union Market this Saturday, March 18. Dorvall Bedford spoke to the 24-year-old hip-hop artist and producer about his 11 years of making music.bit.ly/3Tavofi

DaJohn is one of many stand-out artists from Frederick, but he tells Bedford that a lack of community events forces area musicians to move operations to D.C. The recently profiled Asa Weeks, “the people’s champion,” headlined his first D.C. show last fall. bit.ly/3UXJy3r

Local artist Maurice James Jr. is featured in three galleries around the DMV. His art explores themes of Afrofuturism in both its past-tense and future forms, and works to create "a new Black mythology,” James tells City Paper. bit.ly/3nsMPfC

This Friday, March 31, GWU band Home Remedies headlines Songbyrd. The local indie-rock band has seen immense growth since their debut album, Live from Before, was released in November 2022. Dorvall Bedford speaks to Home Remedies at the link. bit.ly/3YzKk8m

"In a world that is filled with turmoil,” DMV artists see Spring Silver's bassist Reid Williams "reaching for positivity." The local musician's band, Dorinda, release their debut EP April 1, ahead of their—now sold out—show at the Pocket that same day.bit.ly/3G7XNxq

The apocalyptic imagery behind new band Endlings’ name isn’t meant to be entirely gloomy. “It’s a transformative thing,” says lead singer Shady Rose. Dorvall Bedford speaks to the new band ahead of their debut show Saturday, April 8 at Quarry House Tavern.bit.ly/3KdDoZ9

Dorvall Bedford describes Endlings' music as rock that borders on psychedelic. But, he notes their genre evolves with their inspiration, creating a sound that bassist Frankie Hellfire calls "limitless." Endlings plays Quarry House Tavern Saturday, April 8.bit.ly/3KdDoZ9

“I felt like the boss of the room—the youngest boss in the room.” Ramsey Renée speaks with City Paper’s Dorvall Bedford about winning the Wammie for Best Youth Artist, performing at the Howard Theatre, and what comes next for the 17-year-old singer. bit.ly/3WbcSox

Although Jeff Draco moved to D.C. only six months ago, he has already made his mark on the city's music scene. In September 2021 he became the first musician to headline Songbyrd's Union Market location. Draco plays at D.C.'s Union Stage on June 17. bit.ly/3CihobT

After 10 years away from D.C., Paula Mans returned to find her Takoma home unrecognizable. “It’s very clear to me that I’ve been pushed to the margins,” she says. Surviving gentrification is central to her art exhibit, See Me, at Homme Gallery June 16-30. bit.ly/42HLIaw

At just 26, MLLN has a level of control over his music that allows him to heighten its emotional impact; his songs stick with people. The R&B singer has been all over the D.C. music scene recently, but he hosts a release party for a new solo album June 30. bit.ly/3r9rz0b

The eight-member musical collective 242 is undergoing an evolution. Originally hailing from College Park, 242 is bringing their fusion of hip-hop, pop, and R&B to the District. Dorvall Bedford speaks to the group ahead of their Songbyrd debut this Friday. bit.ly/43xCezk

The Dap Project aims to uncover and reveal the significance of “the Black man’s handshake,” co-creator Rhonda Henderson tells WCP. A new exhibit, Dap Is a Love Language, now at Creative Grounds DC, educates viewers on this integral part of Black culture. bit.ly/43RW8oD

Saturday's Mosh Madness was a one of a kind event that makes you proud to call D.C. home. Dramaviolet de Velvet Blurple recaps with photos from Dorvall Bedford for Washington City Paper washingtoncitypaper.com/article/756185…