Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow on HYFIN

On the latest installment of our podcast series, YESTERDAY, TODAY, TOMORROW we chop it up with exemplary Milwaukee MC, NileXNile. From his early days beatboxing in the lunchroom at Atlas Preparatory Academy to becoming a "Crown Jewel" of the Milwaukee music scene, NilexNile’s journey is a masterclass in staying true to your creative pulse. In this episode of Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, the Fat Nerds co-founder reflects on the "aha" moments that defined his path—from witnessing the power of rhythm to captivate a rowdy crowd of students to the pivotal realization that he wanted to be a star after singing along to Usher as a child. His sound is a diverse "gumbo" of influences, rooted in his mother's love for icons like Whitney Houston and Beyoncé and his father's collection of raw hip-hop legends like NWA and Snoop Dogg.Despite early struggles as a "bad student" in a traditional academic setting, Nile found a lifeline through teachers like Mr. Myers, who recognized his notebook full of raps as a sign of true passion rather than a lack of discipline. This encouragement led to a life-changing pivot to the Milwaukee High School of the Arts, where he successfully auditioned with a rap and began proving his skeptics wrong. Today, Nile remains grounded by an "underdog" mentality, balancing his artistic evolution with the reality of a part-time gig to "feed the beast" of his creative career while staying focused on health and his signature "Pastel Views".

In this edition of Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, Milwaukee’s own 414 Big Frank (@414bigfrank) sits down for a conversation that balances viral superstardom with the grounded humor of the North Side. The interview moves chronologically through Frank's journey, beginning with his upcoming performance alongside Bossman DLow on February 28th, where he admits he still gets "the butterflies" before hitting the stage. He reflects on his early roots on 49th and Locust, describing how childhood sessions cleaning the house to the Gap Band and Isley Brothers instilled a "feel-good" rhythm in his DNA—though he jokingly notes the soul legends didn't use as much profanity as he does today. Frank also credits the young success of Bow Wow as his primary inspiration to start rapping at age nine, leading to a career where he now "crowdsources" his creative process by DMing fans directly to ask what they want to hear next.The conversation takes a hilarious turn as Frank details the "real-life" facts of his success, from his self-admitted "bad habit" for casino gambling to his refusal to pay $98 for a couple of oxtail orders at local spots. He shares the wild story behind his massive hit "There It Is," revealing that he actually lied to producer Sonny Lou for days about finishing the track before finally recording it entirely at home. Frank gets candid about his "Yesterday" challenges, including a year-long Instagram ban that occurred right after Lil Uzi Vert DMed him for his number, and his drive to provide a "realistic" path for his two children. Closing out with a look at "Tomorrow," Frank teases an upcoming experimental album and emphasizes that his ultimate goal isn't just viral fame, but making sure the world knows the genuine, positive person behind the music.

In this episode of Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, State Senator LaTonya Johnson joins Anthony Foster for a powerful conversation that tracks her journey from a three-room shack in rural Tennessee to the upper chamber of the Wisconsin State Capitol. Senator Johnson shares many jewels and gems of a life lived with authenticity, from her grandmother’s humor about taking half their small town with them when they moved to Milwaukee, to her college days at Tennessee State University where she navigated the culture shock of her first HBCU experience. She offers a raw look at her decade as a 24-hour childcare provider, explaining how her personal mission to support working families eventually led her to trade her daycare center for a seat in Madison.The discussion also dives into the "ass-backwards" way she entered politics—winning her first election with no money and no professional flyers, but a whole lot of heart and door-knocking. Senator Johnson opens up about the "imposter syndrome" she felt early on and why she believes her lived experiences with poverty and community struggle are her greatest assets as a legislator. Whether she's reminiscing about the first record player in her family home or describing the shock of winning her seat without an official victory party, Senator Johnson proves that she is a leader who truly understands the rhythm and the reality of Milwaukee’s Sixth District.An immersive, fun, revealing and honest conversation with a true crown jewel of our community, only on HYFIN!

In this episode of Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow, Milwaukee’s own Johnny Franchino takes us on a journey through his deep-rooted musical DNA, starting with a childhood household that served as a "melting pot" of legendary sounds. He credits his diverse palette to his parents—his mother, who possessed a "beautiful voice," and his father, a former house DJ who infused house music into Johnny's blood long before he was born. This early exposure to greats like Anita Baker, The DeBarge family, Tevin Campbell, Keith Sweat, and James Brown laid the foundation for his later obsession with lyrical heavyweights. Franchino admits he was so consumed by music that his high school composition books were filled with bars instead of math equations, eventually leading him from battle rapping and poetry into a professional career defined by an relentless DIY work ethic.Franchino’s evolution as an artist is marked by a series of ambitious projects and high-level collaborations that bridge the gap between street lyricism and experimental "spacey" vibes. He famously recorded his 40-track double album, Moon Rocks—split into "Mars" for the fellas and "Venus" for the ladies—in a single weekend, fueled by the influence of Nas, Big Pun, Tupac, and Outkast. Throughout the interview, he shouts out a constellation of collaborators who helped shape his sound, including his "ace" Infamy, producers KC Beats, Laser Smith, and SD Producers, as well as his rock band, The New Grey. Now focusing on his Aesthetix series with Mystic Music, Franchino is eyeing the global stage and major festivals, proving that his "seasoned with Lawry’s" approach and energy are ready for a worldwide audience.

Lafayette Crump, Milwaukee’s Commissioner of City Development, joined the Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow podcast to share a vision for the city that blends urbanist policy with a deep-rooted cultural heartbeat. Growing up on 27th and Burleigh, Crump’s early memories of Milwaukee are intertwined with the "cassette era" of radio, where he honed his musical ear by recording tracks like "Planet Rock" straight from the airwaves. Today, he translates that same passion into his professional work, advocating for a city of one million people that prioritizes "human infrastructure" and racial equity. By staying connected to Milwaukee’s evolving sound through platforms like HYFIN, Crump maintains an aspirational outlook—discovering new artists like Doechii and Chappell Roan while working to ensure that Milwaukee remains a vibrant, inclusive destination where the city's rich musical history and its future growth harmonize.

Thanks for tuning in to YESTERDAY. TODAY. TOMORROW. for this special edition with Milwaukee County Executive, David Crowley, and let me tell you, this gentlemen and his work ethic are something to marvel! He's out here doing the impossible: juggling running Milwaukee County, running for Governor, and still being a present husband and girl-dad to three daughters! Luckily for us, he kept it a buck, shouting out his "better three quarters," Erica Crowley, for holding down the whole entire fort, proving that you gotta marry up to be successful. But the real foundation, the why behind his grind, started with the youth program URBAN UNDERGROUND back in high school. That place taught him how to love his community and, most importantly, how to love himself. He's firm on his belief in Milwaukee, choosing to stay rooted here instead of leaving for bigger opportunities like so many do. His message to the young kings and queens out there: Embrace that individuality. A man of quotes, he lives by the credo of: "Do or do not, there is no try!" Before the political life, David Crowley was deep in the MKE music scene with his crew, the legendary "Two Random Entertainment!" Yes, they got that name because they were just too random with the house parties off 53rd and Locust and throughout the city of MIlwaukee. These guys were filling a void while having fun and bringing the community together, throwing events at places like Escape and Club 414, creating the vibe the 21-30 set needed, and connecting with future stars like Ray Nitti, Ray Rizzy, DJ Willie Shakes and others who have grown into incredible talents in their own right. He even considered getting into music production because he had a serious ear for the craft. Where did that come from? Saturday mornings listening to his mom playing the legends—Anita Baker and Al Green—and playing the trumpet in middle and high school under the tutelage of the legendary Sam Belton, which taught him to listen for those subtle samples and sounds. From Gospel (Kirk Franklin was his first CD!) to the Cash Money/No Limit wars, to Hip Hop icons Nas, JAY-Z and Big L (R.I.P.) music was always integral to his life and learning. We cover it all! Take a moment and enjoy the man, the myth and the Milwaukee legend, County executive David Crowley!

We are back with another edition of the HYFIN podcast series YESTERDAY. TODAY. TOMORROW. Our guest for this one: Nehemiah "Nemo" Edwards, an award-winning artist, a remarkable creative, and a proud representative of Milwaukee.Although he is a graduate of UW-Madison with a degree in electrical engineering, Nemo's life is defined by his passion for the arts, which he considers his authentic "purpose work" and his means of expressing his true self. He approaches life with a deep spiritual philosophy, believing individuals are dual entities — more spirit than human — and that one must tap into this spiritual self, which is nothing but "pure love." Nemo's personality is characterized by a drive to live in "creator mode," finding value in vulnerability and honesty, and ultimately desiring a legacy tied to the genuine feeling of saying "I love you." Nemo's life journey has been marked by a constant creative itch, starting with a childhood love for drawing and then evolving into music production, with an early goal of becoming a producer using Fruity Loops. Currently in a transitional period, his primary goal is to forge his own path and live an abundant life as a creator. His aspirations are global and universal: He desires significant financial wealth to achieve a particular lifestyle and, most importantly, to "serve others" and help his family and community. Nemo views his work in the arts as the place where he can have the "most amount of impact on people" and hopes to be a "walking example" of what's possible for those who share his background. Enjoy this great conversation full of humor, honesty and most importantly LOVE!

Tarik Moody is one-of-one. An expression we have used and heard used countless times and this case it actually applies. Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia and living and growing in 8 different cities before making Milwaukee his home, Tarik has been responsible for many thngs in his lifetime and we touch on all of those things here on another edition of YTT.We are also excited to celebrate 20 years of his syndicated radio show, RHYTHM LAB RADIO. The show began in Minneapolis in 2005 and has grown into a reputable staple in Transforming the Urban Sound. The tapestry of artsts that have been featured on this program is mmense as the show has explored countless genres of music and artists in its 20-year run.Tarik also shares his journey to Milwaukee and being one of the RadioMilwaukee OGs, as he has been with the organzition since its inception. We explore his various roles over the years at RadioMilwaukee and talk about his passion and drive that brought us HYFIN. Wisconsin's only urban alternative radio station.Tarik shares hs visions and plans for the future while remaining firmly entrenched in the now.Enjoy!!!

YESTERDAY. TODAY. TOMORROW. returns with another engaging episode as we welcome guests, co-Executive Directors of TrueSkool, Shalina Ali and Fidel Verdin, celebrating their long-standing presence in the community and their upcoming "Summer Park Jam Weekend 2025." The event, kicks off on Friday, August 8th, with exclusive CEO Sessions. An opportunity for networking among creatives, media makers, young professionals, and entrepreneurs. A highlight of these sessions will be an exclusive convo with hip-hop legends EPMD (Eric Sermon and Parrish Smith), who will share their extensive expertise on topics ranging from production and publishing to longevity and touring in the music industry. The event seeks to provide immense value to attendees, particularly artists and creative industries in Milwaukee, with limited seating available through RSVP at trueskool.org/summerparkjam.Shalina and Fidel share their personal inspirations for dedicating themselves to this work. Fidel attributes his drive to his parents, who instilled in him the importance of action and creativity, fostering an artistic environment where "everything was creative as possible." Shalina, whose mother was a seamstress and cook and her father a "serial entrepreneur," learned resourcefulness and resilience. She also highlights her experience growing up in a "highly racially charged childhood" as a mixed-race individual (Pakistani father, Mexican mother), which fueled her "love for culture, diversity, and flavor" and led her to find healing and community through poetry, photography, and hip-hop culture. Their early engagement with hip-hop, from breaking and graffiti to forming crews and understanding its power to mobilize, laid the foundation for their commitment to fostering community and education through TrueSkool.Enjoy this fun, rollicking and informative conversation that delves into our subjects, yesterday, today and tomorrow!!

This week on YESTERDAY. TODAY. TOMORROW on HYFIN we bring you an exquisite conversation with the one and only Angela Mallett, proprietor of iconic Honeybee Sage and Wellness,@honeybeesageandwellness the go to holistic apothecary and world class vibe inducing shop on MLK JR DRIVE in the Historic Bronzeville neighborhood of Milwaukee. The award winner, massage therapist, doula and multi-faceted entrepreneur (we love ‘hyfin’s around here) spills quality tea about her life, the time she has spent back and forth between here and Mississippi, and everywhere in between. Revelatory moments from her youth, family history, and details on her career path and time as an MPS student. Angela shares the juxtaposition between expectations and reality and how they have united to put her in the place she lives today. Not to mention a lot of humorous moments and grown up situations that are inspiring, real and honest, and as always on YTT, good music and good laughs. Peep game and the full conversation at hyfin.org or anywhere you get your podcasts!…Peace and Love!!!!

In this episode of 'Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow,' the host introduces their special guest, Brittany Freeman-Farr also known as Be Free—a multi-talented musician and creative force. The discussion revolves around Be Free’s journey from Milwaukee to California, detailing her early experiences in music and education. She vividly recounts her transition from singing and playing flute to producing her own music, even during a challenging period when she lost her voice due to a severe throat infection. Despite facing numerous obstacles, including a critical surgery and the physical and psychological toll it took, Be Free highlights her perseverance and adaptability. Her first project, 'Open Mic, Open Heart,' emerged from her self-taught production skills, and her sophomore album was an emotional exploration of her relationship with her voice during its recovery. Be Free also touches on her role as the program director of Grace Weber's Music Lab, emphasizing its mission to nurture young talent and provide them with unique opportunities to develop their artistic skills. She reflects on the importance of giving back to the community and expresses her aspirations for future projects and continued growth as an artist and mentor.

This edition of YESTERDAY. TODAY. TOMORROW explores an engaging interview with the esteemed MC, Brother Ali, a steady and solid presence in the hip-hop game for decades. The conversation kicks off with praise for Ali's impressive career, boasting seven LPs, four EPs, and numerous collaborations since his debut in 2000. Based now in Istanbul, Turkey, Ali reflects on his independent journey of over two decades, expressing gratitude for making a living doing what he loves and cherishing his current inspired and blessed stage of life.We also delve into the meaning behind Ali's music, particularly his line about not rhyming to escape reality from his new album, "Satisfied Soul." He elaborates on the diverse landscape of hip-hop he encountered, from joyful and fun artists to those focused on street life, artistic excellence, education, and even purely sexual expression. Ali contrasts this with the mainstream music industry's later focus on a narrower spectrum, which led to the rise of the underground and independent scenes where artists like him aim to explore deeper meanings rather than provide escapism.We cover a lot here, per usual, for YTT and unearth some fascinating insights, and anecdotes from the brother himself, as well as some funny moments and stories throughout his illustrious career. You can also bear witness to his sprawling LIVE show as he will be gracing the stage tomorrow, May 9th at Shank Hall along with the insanely

Another special edition of YESTERDAY. TODAY. TOMORROW with spectacular guest, SHONN HINTON .From rocking the drums in his grandfather's church as a kid in Milwaukee to sharing a stage with legends, Shonn Hinton's musical journey is pure inspiration. This 414 native, a ridiculously talented bass guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer, Shonn has been making waves globally with his undeniable musical gifts. Even back in sixth grade, while his peers were navigating the awkwardness of teenage years in Milwaukee, Shonn was already mastering the guitar, a sign of the extraordinary talent that was to come. Fast forward to today, and Shonn is riding high from a flurry of recent releases along with his latest album, "Khadijah,” a project born from a fun, lighthearted space, inspired by Queen Latifah's iconic character from "Living Single." Unlike his previous more personal projects, "Khadijah” was a burst of creative energy, written and recorded in a mere three weeks! This album, which he playfully considered naming "Me and Big Booty Judy" before settling on the more musically-focused "Khadijah,” is a testament to his ability to create incredible music when he lets loose and wilds out a bit. The lead single, the infectious "Too Much Shaking Going On," is already making serious noise, and with Shonn having played all the instruments on the album himself, it adds a whole new layer of appreciation for his artistry. Shonn's talent isn't confined to his solo work. This Milwaukee maestro has an impressive history of collaborating with a who's who of the music industry, a journey that surprisingly began before he even released his own recordings. His first big break came through a chance encounter at Summer Fest with Rex Hardy, who was playing for Jersey Ave. A VHS tape showcasing Shonn's skills led to an unexpected call and a gig with the legendary Dave Hollister! From there, his reputation as a phenomenal musician from the 414 only grew, leading to incredible opportunities and collaborations with artists like Mary J. Blige, Jill Scott, John Legend, Patti Labelle and a myriad of others. Grounded in his early experiences playing in church and fueled by the timeless sounds of artists like Earth, Wind & Fire and Heatwave, Shonn Hinton is a force to be reckoned with, and his dedication to leaving his artistic well "empty" promises even more amazing music to come.

Join us as Milwaukee's own IshDARR sits down with HYFIN to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of his groundbreaking debut project "Old Soul, Young Spirit." In this revealing conversation, IshDARR traces his journey from recording with friends using a digital camera to performing at Summerfest and landing a role alongside Matthew McConaughey in "White Boy Rick."Discover how his father's DJing and the Wu-Tang Clan sparked his musical ambitions, and how his experiences in Milwaukee schools shaped his artistic vision. IshDARR opens up about the formation of his first groups, the creation of Milwaukee anthems, and navigating the music industry while staying true to his authentic sound.Don't miss this intimate look into one of Milwaukee's most respected and prolific MCs as he reflects on a decade of music, unexpected acting opportunities, and what's next in his remarkable creative journey.

In an intimate conversation with Milwaukee's hip-hop pioneer Antoine "Twan Mack" Mack, recorded just months before his untimely passing, listeners are granted unprecedented access to the reflections of a visionary who helped shape the genre's evolution from its nascent stages to its contemporary form. This profound dialogue, captured for HYFIN's Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow podcast, traverses four decades of hip-hop history through the lens of an artist who witnessed its transformation from urban phenomenon to global cultural force.From his early experiences in 1979 New Jersey to his groundbreaking work with Kali Tribe and later advocacy for "Adult Contemporary Hip-Hop," Mack's narrative weaves together personal history with astute cultural analysis. The conversation explores the nuanced dynamics of generational dialogue within hip-hop culture, examining how age, experience, and artistic maturity intersect in an ever-evolving genre.Recorded as Mack prepared for hip replacement surgery while touring with Arrested Development, this interview serves as both historical document and forward-looking manifesto. His insights on ageism in American hip-hop, contrasted with international perspectives, offer a compelling examination of the genre's cultural dynamics. Through candid reflections on his role as Milwaukee's hip-hop ambassador and his vision for the genre's future, Mack provides a masterclass in artistic integrity, community responsibility, and the importance of preserving hip-hop's foundational values while embracing its evolution.This episode stands as a testament to Mack's enduring legacy and his commitment to creating space for every voice in hip-hop's ongoing narrative. His final recorded thoughts now serve as both a celebration of his pioneering spirit and a blueprint for future generations of artists and cultural stewards.

In this episode, we sit down with the eclectic Jean Dawson, an artist redefining boundaries with his latest album, Glimmer God. Dawson shares the deeply personal inspiration behind the project—a tribute to his mother, a Mexican immigrant who used music to learn English—and how it blends influences from legends like Prince, Michael Jackson, and Radiohead. He reflects on growing up in a multicultural household with a Black father and Mexican mother, highlighting how their experiences shaped his artistry. From his recent collaboration with Lil Yachty to performing in Milwaukee for the first time, Dawson discusses the connections between his cultural roots, family, and creative process. This intimate conversation showcases the vibrant spirit and authenticity that make Jean Dawson a voice of the present and the future.

Here's a podcast description for the interview with Kelly Finnigan:Join us for an intimate conversation with soul sensation Kelly Finnigan on HYFIN's Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow podcast. In this episode, host Anthony Foster delves deep into Finnigan's musical journey, from his early days as a DJ to his current status as a celebrated solo artist and producer.Finnigan shares exclusive insights about his upcoming album "A Lover Was Born," set to release on October 18th. He discusses the inspiration behind the album title, his creative process, and the diverse range of soul styles listeners can expect.Get a behind-the-scenes look at Finnigan's work with Monophonics, his collaborations with other artists, and his perspective on the music industry. He opens up about the importance of versatility in today's music scene and offers valuable advice for aspiring musicians.Finnigan also talks about his upcoming tours, including a special West Coast run with soul legend Lee Fields, and shares heartwarming stories about his interactions with the late Charles Bradley.Whether you're a long-time fan of Kelly Finnigan or new to his soulful sound, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and mind of one of today's most passionate and versatile soul artists. Tune in for an hour of music, memories, and inspiration!

Yes indeed, another edition of YESTERDAY, TODAY, TOMORROW and our guest is none other than Leo Novati, also known as DJ LEO NEO, a Burundian entrepreneur and creator of AfroCharts, a platform that promotes African music globally. AfroCharts provides a space for African artists to share their music and engage with a wider audience.As a DJ and music enthusiast, Leo Neo has contributed significantly to the Afrobeat and African music scene, amplifying diverse genres from the continent. His work emphasizes cultural expression through technology and innovation, connecting artists and listeners across the globe. In this wise ranging piece, we discuss Leo’s life and upbringing, his acclimation to the USA.We discover and explore the revelations and experiences the marvelous DJ and creative has encountered in this joyous and raucous conversation. DJ LEO NEO brings the AfroBeats vibes to our palatial RadioMilwaukee HQ on Sunday, September 29th! Tickets available at afrocharts.com/ticket

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Milwaukee's culinary sensation, Chef Dane Baldwin. From nearly missing high school graduation to winning the prestigious James Beard Award, Baldwin's journey is a testament to perseverance and passion. In this episode, we explore his rise through Milwaukee's vibrant restaurant scene, from his first cooking job at Gill's Cafe to opening his acclaimed restaurant, The Diplomat. Baldwin shares insights on leadership, creativity, and the challenges of running a top-tier restaurant. He also offers a unique perspective on Milwaukee's evolving food landscape and his excitement for the next generation of chefs. Whether you're a food enthusiast, an aspiring chef, or simply love a good success story, this episode serves up a hearty dose of inspiration with a side of culinary wisdom. Tune in to savor the flavors of Dane Baldwin's remarkable culinary journey.

Tune into a captivating episode where we sit down with the multifaceted former Judge Derek Mosley. From his rhythmic nights fueled by house music on Chicago's South Side to reshaping Milwaukee's justice scene at the tender age of 31, Mosley shares his exceptional story. Beyond his storied legal career, discover how his passion for community, culinary adventures, and unifying conversations continue to shape his beloved Milwaukee.Join us as we unravel the symphony of experiences that make up Mosley's life and learn how he wields his diverse passions to script a narrative of hope and connection. This is not just a journey through the chambers of law but an exploration of the heart and soul of one of Milwaukee’s most cherished voices.