This really felt more like a victory lap. For every artist.
For Richmond, Flag on the Moon (FOTM) is more than an event — its the example of a thriving Hip Hop community built on expression, integrity and love. For Hip Hop, it’s the product of Radio B.’s vision and The Association of Great Minds’ dedication to elevating the art form. A few Sundays ago, authentic expression graced the stage of the Broadberry, holding it down for it’s ninth year, FOTM showcased emerging artist throughout the city, and state, for a stellar multi-hour long ascent to the moon, leaving an indelible mark on Richmond’s Hip Hop landscape.
Each performance was a statement — you could feel it.
A testament to the depth, and talent thriving in Richmond’s Hip Hop scene. From the ebullient energy of Zuri to the resonant stage presence of Noah-O & Big No, and the collaborative effort of the Live Mixtape Session, every artist held their own.
FOTM 9 felt like the perfect prelude to year 10. As the dust settles, we’re taking a closer look at a few standout artists who graced the stage — Michael Millions, Radio B., Cane, DuctTapeJesus, Illa Styles, Kaay Taurus, O-Z, Ronnie Luxe and T.R.I.G — diving into their reflections and what they have planned for 2025.
Michael Millions — “This time, it’s a new route in my journey.”
Michael Millions is gearing up for a major 2025, fresh off the cuff of a Grammy-nomination nod, as engineer for Mad Skillz Best Spoken Word album, The Seven Number Ones, he has personal releases slated for the first quarter.
“Although I’m featured on a lot of music and constantly working on released music for many other artists, it’s been a while since I dropped from my own personal catalogue,” he explained. “This time represents my new route in my music journey — all that I’ve learned and absorbed.”
Reflecting on Flag on the Moon 9, Millions was inspired by both the event’s collective energy and his own performance. “There were so many fire moments from Flag — seeing the rise of BDM and her journey, how much fun we had during the Live Mixtape, the headliners… all of it inspires me.” He added, “Personally, it was the first glimpse of people seeing DJ Harrison and I presenting upcoming music. Good times.”
As for 2025, Michael’s mission is clear: to innovate and elevate. “Every time I release music, my goal is to move the needle that much more. My goals are no different with this run — it’s going to move the needle and move your body.”
Radio B. — “The Internet is Fake, but the music is real.”
Kicking off 2025 with clarity, Radio B. is set to release The Internet Is Fake on January 1.
“I believe it is my best and most important work to date,” he shared. “It’s a true testament to dialing into my craft to document a moment in time that we are all currently experiencing. I pray it’s something that has a positive impact for all who come in contact with it.”
His performance at Flag on the Moon 9 was a pivotal moment.
“For me, it was my entire set,” Radio B. said. “I performed all new music from the upcoming album, and to share the stage with such talented musicians and vocalists who are featured was dope.”
As for the future of Richmond Hip-Hop, Radio B. hopes his work challenges and inspires his peers.
“I’m praying it will be impactful and that the influence pushes artists to test their boundaries, write from their hearts, and think about how they engage with the internet. I want them to use it as a more productive tool, coming from an authentic place.”
Cane — “Dropping Gems and Elevating the Scene”
For Cane, 2025 is all about releasing music consistently. “I’ve been teasing ‘Rose Water’ and ‘Get Up & Get It’ on social media — those will be the first singles to drop,” he shared. “This year, I’m focused on letting go and putting the music out.” Cane’s growth as a writer is reflected in his new material. “I’ve been doing this so long, and I just have more to write about now,” he added.
Reflecting on Flag on the Moon 9, Cane highlighted the live mixtape segment as a standout. “All those artists up there together brought a dope energy — no weak links. It felt unified, and I left inspired,” he said.
As he looks ahead, Cane is focused on giving back to the Richmond hip-hop community.
“Richmond welcomed me from the very beginning, and now it really feels like home. I’m surrounded by so many dope artists, and I only see our scene going up,” Cane said.
Please enjoy the baby battles by Cane.
DuctTape Jesus: Pushing Boundaries with Music and Film
DuctTape Jesus is deep into creating his next album, Chrome Witch, a project exploring his relationships with himself, friends, and the amazing women in his life.
“Almost like if the 69 Boyz wrote a rom-com. That’s been the feeling so far.”
He’s also excited about the deluxe vinyl release of Chester Skate Land. “Holding it just reminded me of being in Ty’s old tiny room ordering Bo Dillaz. It hit me kinda hard just seeing and holding it.” While the release date is TBD, he plans a big show to celebrate.
Beyond music, DuctTape Jesus is diving into directing. “I really love film… It’s another form of storytelling that words just can’t do.” Fans can support by snagging shirts or hitting up his Bandcamp.
Reflecting on his live performances, he highlights the crowd’s energy and his unique style. “Instead of asking people to come closer… I told myself ima come to you. It was beautiful.” Proud of his originality, he sees his music as an example of breaking norms. “One of my superpowers is that I’m not afraid of people. If you see a chubby nigga jumping around screaming, people will be like, ‘Oh shit… I can for sure loosen up a bit.’”
Illa Styles — “Hip-Hop isn’t a passion; it’s in my blood.”
Illa Styles is no stranger to evolution, and his upcoming 2025 collaboration album, Don’t Forget About The Babies, is a testament to his growth.
“We’re stockpiling records now and picking the cream of the crop,” Illa shared. “There’s a clear maturity in the messaging and overall theme of the music that you can only get from two seasoned emcees who care about the craft and community.”
Slated for a late summer/early fall release, the project promises introspection and purpose-driven storytelling.
Reflecting on his journey through Flag on the Moon’s history, he shared the event’s personal significance:
“The longevity the event exhibits is a big inspiration. Personally, I went from fighting at the first one to performing at four of them. I don’t have a passion for Hip-Hop, I BREATHE it. If you cut me open, I would bleed the Purple Tape.”
As for 2025, Illa Styles is raising the bar for live performances.
“My work will have a big impact on how artists approach their stage shows. It’s more than hitting the studio, cutting vocals, and rapping over 2-tracks on stage. Bare minimum will no longer cut it. We all have to elevate our games to become true entertainers, not just rappers or singers on stage.”
Kaay Taurus: Blending Jazz, R&B, and Hip-Hop into Timeless Music
R&B artist Kaay Taurus is set for a transformative 2025, marking a pivotal point in her career. “2025 is definitely a turning point for me… five years of being more consistent in my craft, growing as a producer, writer, and singer,” she shared. Graduating from LA Film School this upcoming March, she’s ready for her debut album later in the year, Kaay is excited to unveil her sound.
“The best way for people to support me is to interact with me on social media, seek me out at events, stream my music, and buy my new merch. I will be releasing my first album this year. Title will not be named until early spring 2025.
Performing at Flag on the Moon 9 symbolized her growth.
“A huge moment for me is that I’m now making music with people I started watching over 10 years ago… Having them collectively agree to put an R&B singer on their hip-hop show was a stamp of approval.”
Kaay aims to reshape Richmond’s music scene and showcase R&B’s legacy.
“Artists like Lauryn Hill, D’Angelo, and Jill Scott shaped my ear for sound… By the end of 2025, I’ll be booking larger festivals and opening for major artists. I want to show the world what Richmond has to offer.”
O-Z — “Revisiting the Roots, Redefining the Sound”
For O-Z, this next year is all about repurposing and reintroducing his past music with renewed intention.
“The focus is on what we already have and need people to embrace,” he explained. “Growth comes from showcasing that evolution, tapping into the nostalgia that shaped us.”
Fans can stay connected through his Instagram (@odashz).
One of the most memorable moments from Flag on the Moon 9 for O-Z was the mixtape session. “The talent on display was incredible, and the cohesiveness was unmatched. On stage, I could see the audience’s awe — even those standing still were clearly stunned.”
Looking ahead, O-Z plans to cement his place in Richmond’s hip-hop scene by blending nostalgia with fresh innovation. “I’m re-presenting my current art with purpose,” he said.
T.R.I.G — “On the Move, Pushing Richmond Forward”
For T.R.I.G, 2025 won’t see a solo album, but that doesn’t mean it will be quiet. Instead, he’s hitting the road, taking his latest project to a wider audience.
“I don’t foresee a full solo project this coming year. I’ll be on the road getting the world familiar with my latest project. A lot of features though.”
Reflecting on Flag on the Moon 9, Trig Lee found inspiration in two standout moments. “The live mixtape segment has me hopeful that 2025 will be a strong year for my peers,” he shared. He also found motivation in seeing Michael Millions and Radio B previewing their upcoming music. “Both giving us new music early 2025 — I’m excited for that.”
Trig’s vision for Richmond hip-hop is one of global influence and steady growth. “My upcoming work will change the world. Just gonna take my time.”
With Richmond’s Hip-Hop poised for a breakout, Trig is determined to be part of that push.
“Richmond hip-hop is geared to take a big leap into the forefront of the world. Whatever I can do to push that, I will.”
Trig’s last album, Arthur Ashe Blvd, can be experienced here.
Ronnie Luxe: The Soulful Architect of Change
Ronnie Luxe’s sound is a perfect blend of emotive, lyric-driven R&B with rich, soulful melodies. Her music is an honest reflection of growth, vulnerability, and self-discovery, crafted to inspire and connect with listeners on a deep level.
Ronnie Luxe blends emotive Hip-Hop with soulful melodies, creating music that reflects growth, vulnerability, and self-discovery. As she prepares for 2025, she’s set to release her debut album in January, followed by a Blues EPs with collaborator FanRan.
“Each track is a snapshot of my journey, filled with the lessons I’ve learned. It’s a deeper, truer version of myself and my sound. I feel like my expression has never been more free.”
A pivotal moment in her career came at Flag on the Moon 9, when she saw Ohbliv perform live. “His sound stopped me in my tracks — it felt both familiar and uniquely different.”
Looking ahead, Ronnie’s music aims to inspire change in Richmond’s music scene. “I want to bring a soulful wave to Richmond, infusing more depth, soul, and vulnerability into the music. My goal is to rekindle an appreciation for R&B and transparency in hip-hop, creating a more harmonious and limitless artistic landscape.”
Flag on the Moon 9 offered a glimpse into the heart of Richmond’s Hip-Hop community — a mix of established voices and emerging talent with stories that need to be told.
It felt like the victory lap they deserved, celebrating their journeys and resilience. As these artists gear up for 2025, their passion and creativity are paving the way for a groundbreaking year in Richmond.
Keep your eyes on The Seen.
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