XV

In the evolving world of Hip-Hop, few have made the leap from a Midwest city to the heart of a digital revolution like Donavan “XV” Johnson. Hailing from Wichita, Kansas—a city known more for its quiet streets than its Hip-Hop scene—XV became an underground legend during the Blog Era. Now, with his new album "Blog Era Is Dead," crafted with long-time producer MIKE SUMMERS, XV is set to honor the era that made him while launching into a new phase of his career. XV’s rise began in the late 2000s, a time when blogs and digital platforms like DatPiff and LiveMixtapes reshaped the music industry. These platforms allowed artists to bypass traditional barriers and connect directly with fans. XV’s clever lyrics, pop culture references, and unique individuality quickly made him a standout in this new era. His mixtapes, including "Square In The Circle," "Everybody’s Nobody," and "Zero Heroes," featured artists such as Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean, Talib Kweli & Kendrick Lamar. Tracks like "Awesome (feat. Pusha-T)," featured in NBA 2K12 and Verizon commercials, highlighted his ability to create hits that reached beyond the Hip-Hop community. After a lengthy break, XV returned in 2019 with "The Dude with the Strap Back Dad Hat," reaffirming his presence in an ever-changing Hip-Hop landscape. But it’s his upcoming album, "Blog Era Is Dead," that brings his journey full circle. This project not only honors the past but also reflects on the growth experienced since the Blog Era.