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Tracy Haynes: The Rarebreed’s Journey from Gospel Harmony to R\&B Stardom

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Tracy Haynes, known in the music world as “The Rarebreed,” embarked on his musical odyssey at the tender age of 2, inheriting his talent from a gospel-singing father. The journey unfolded with the creation of the gospel group True Faith at 14, captivating audiences with their five-part harmony in churches across the region.

As high school beckoned, Tracy succumbed to the irresistible allure of R\&B, drawing inspiration from legends like Marvin Gaye and Sam Cooke, as well as his pastor. Enter “All Out,” a seven-member ensemble that enjoyed local success and radio play in Toledo and beyond. Despite early attention, Tracy’s greatest achievements lay ahead.

When the group transitioned to solo pursuits, Tracy propelled his career into overdrive. Focused on learning the business, innovating his craft, and building an audience, Tracy’s trajectory soared. The turning point came during a performance of his hit single “Pretend” at the Tom Joyner talent showcase, where he encountered his future manager and mentor from M3M Management.

The coalition formed in 2007 catapulted Tracy into the spotlight, earning him recognition as “Toledo Idol” on Fox News. This newfound popularity opened doors to share stages with major artists such as T-Pain, Trey Songz, and Drake. Notably, Tracy graced the largest urban beach party event in Northwest Ohio, The Bash at the Bay, alongside celebrities like Yung Juc and Pretty Ricky.

In June 2009, Tracy’s highly anticipated album “RareBreed” hit the airwaves, earning tens of thousands of rave reviews globally. Hits like “Go Live,” “Pretend,” and “If it Ain’t You” solidified Tracy’s status as a star musician. MySpace played a crucial role, amassing over 30,000 friends and 150,000 plays, expanding his influence across the Midwest.

The pinnacle of Tracy’s career arrived in 2010, marked by national recognition as a semi-finalist in Steve Harvey’s Radio Star Contest. New York witnessed Tracy’s pursuit of excellence at the legendary Apollo Theater and BET’s 106 & Park. His talents reached airwaves nationwide with a feature alongside Too \$hort in the song “Cuffin.” Tracy’s album “Rarebreed” earned a nomination at the Ohio Hip Awards, showcasing his impact on the industry.

Beyond music, Tracy’s philanthropic endeavors shine through Dunkin’ for Donations, a charity basketball game benefiting local foster kids. As Tracy works on his second album and releases singles like “Go Girl,” his short-term goal remains to impact the music industry with timeless music, driven by a desire to give back and inspire success. Tracy Haynes, “The Rarebreed,” continues to write his musical legacy with passion and purpose.

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Out Of Focus | Rob Louis – Gospel On The Green | Season 2 Episode 3

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In this episode of Out Of Focus, we sit down with Rob Louis — aka RC — the visionary founder of Gospel On the Green in Toledo, Ohio. A multi-talented entrepreneur, music producer, musician, and lifelong sports enthusiast, RC opens up about the inspiration behind the annual event that’s now in its fourth year. We take it back to the roots — reminiscing on our shared experiences in the church and the unforgettable Gospel Fests of the early ’90s that planted the seeds for what would become Gospel On the Green. Rob shares how those early memories, mixed with a desire to reach new audiences, influenced the way he’s reimagined the event to connect with people who may not be familiar with gospel music. This is more than a conversation about music — it’s about legacy, innovation, and creating a space where community, culture, and faith collide in powerful ways.

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Frankie Corleone: West Toledo’s Hip-Hop Powerhouse

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Hailing from the west side of Toledo, Ohio, Frankie Corleone has established himself as a cornerstone of the city’s music scene. A skilled rapper and engineer, Corleone’s journey in hip-hop began in 2003. Over two decades later, he has built a legacy as one of the most prolific and versatile artists in the region, crafting a career that merges artistry, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

With a discography that spans over 16 hours of music, Corleone’s dedication to his craft is undeniable. His extensive catalog showcases his dynamic style, storytelling ability, and versatility. Beyond his solo work, Corleone has collaborated with over 60 artists to date, solidifying his reputation as a sought-after feature and a team player within the music community.

Frankie Corleone isn’t just a rapper; he’s a pioneer who has taken his talents to the next level as a music engineer. Working in studios across Toledo, he has been instrumental in shaping the sound of many local artists. His technical expertise and creative vision have made him a trusted name in the city’s music industry.

In 2021, Corleone launched Baccwood Studios, his own recording space. This entrepreneurial venture reflects his commitment to not only advancing his career but also supporting the growth of other artists. Baccwood Studios has quickly become a hub for Toledo’s creative talent, providing a space where music and artistry thrive under Corleone’s expert guidance.

Frankie Corleone’s dedication to his craft, his community, and his entrepreneurial spirit continue to elevate him as a leader in Toledo’s music scene. As an artist, engineer, and business owner, Corleone is paving the way for the next generation of talent while keeping the spotlight on the 419.

To explore more of Frankie Corleone’s music and ventures, visit his Linktree.

The 419 Grind

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Brian Durst: Ohio’s Pop Sensation

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Ohio’s music scene is ablaze with the infectious beats and captivating melodies of local pop sensation, Brian Durst. With chart-toppers like “Long Goodbye” and “Never Let Go,” Durst has become a household name, captivating audiences with his unique sound. His viral hits, including “On The Outside Looking In” featuring Blind Fury and “Disappear” featuring Caskey, have catapulted him to fame, accumulating millions of views across various platforms. Now, with his latest single, “No Matter What Happens” featuring Seckond Chaynce, Durst continues to solidify his status as an independent artist with a global appeal.

In a recent interview with The419Grind.com, Brian Durst delved into his musical journey, motivations, and aspirations. Here’s a glimpse into the mind and soul of this rising star:

Q: When did you start in music, and what was your inspiration?

A: I started taking music seriously in 2017 with my debut single, “Long Goodbye.” My inspiration definitely came from the 80s and 90s. I grew up a big fan of Michael Jackson and Prince.

Q: What drives you to be the artist you are today?

A: The fear of failure and letting my fans/community down is a big factor in what drives me today to keep grinding and working hard.

Q: Being in the 419 music scene, how would you evaluate the talent?

A: I’m proud to say the talent pool in the 419 is absolutely absurd. I would put our area’s artists up against the best in Ohio with confidence. And that goes for all genres.

Q: What’s the overall impact you strive to have with your music on your community and the rest of the world?

A: As a music artist, I strive to create music that inspires, uplifts, and brings people together. I want my music to make a positive impact on my community and the rest of the world by spreading messages of love, unity, and positivity. I hope to touch hearts, spark conversations, and ultimately bring about positive change through my music.

Q: What are some of your favorite songs to perform?

A: My favorite songs to perform on stage would be “No Matter What Happens,” “Overcame it All,” “Myself Over Everything,” and “All My Life.”

With each performance and every new release, Brian Durst continues to enchant audiences with his dynamic sound and unwavering passion for his craft. As he blazes a trail in the music industry, his journey is one to watch, filled with promise, talent, and an unyielding commitment to spreading joy through music. Stay tuned for what’s next in the musical odyssey of Brian Durst.

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