Grooves & Beats

This week, we're looking into the diverse world of production and soulful expression with Cookin Soul, Frank Dukes, and Brandon Banks. Cookin Soul takes the spotlight with his signature blend of smooth, jazzy beats and hip-hop influences, creating a laid-back yet compelling vibe that resonates with every listen. Frank Dukes, the mastermind behind countless hits, brings his knack for crafting genre-defying soundscapes that have shaped the sound of modern music. Meanwhile, Brandon Banks serves up his soulful vocals and introspective lyrics, blending R&B with a contemporary twist that hits right in the feels. Together, these artists showcase the limitless possibilities of music, each offering a unique take on rhythm, melody, and emotion.

Cookin Soul’s Sunrise Flavors

Cookin Soul

Cookin Soul, also known as David García, is a powerhouse in the world of hip-hop production, delivering a unique blend of classic beats with modern-day finesse. Hailing from Spain, Cookin Soul has made a significant impact on the global hip-hop scene, crafting soulful, sample-driven beats that embody the essence of boom-bap while staying fresh and contemporary. García has worked with an impressive roster of artists, including icons like Mac Miller, Nipsey Hussle, and The Game, highlighting his versatility and ability to adapt to different styles.

Cookin Soul’s production is characterized by its lush, jazzy samples, smooth drum patterns, and nostalgic soundscapes. Projects like the “Soulmatic” series showcase his talent for creating cohesive, vibe-heavy records that transport listeners to a timeless space. Recent instrumental releases continue to demonstrate his signature touch—balancing mellow grooves with intricate sampling techniques. For those seeking an authentic hip-hop experience that blends the past with the present, Cookin Soul's extensive catalog is an absolute must.

My Favorite Album:

• 4 Dilla, Vol. 3

My Favorite Songs:

• Knowmyname

• Fallin’

Afternoon Vibes With Dukes

Frank Dukes (Ging)

Frank Dukes, the Toronto-born producer and songwriter, has long been a driving force behind some of hip-hop and pop's most unforgettable hits. Rising from the underground scene with his raw, sample-based production, he evolved into a versatile maestro, shaping tracks for artists like Drake, The Weeknd, and Rihanna. His signature style—crafted through blending genres and creating unique sonic textures—has solidified him as a key architect in modern music. But what truly set him apart was his innovative use of his self-made samples. The legendary “Kingsway Music Library,” filled with original compositions, became a goldmine for top producers, allowing them to draw from sounds that felt classic yet refreshingly new.

Today, Frank Dukes is embracing a new artistic chapter under the name Ging. This transformation marks a personal and creative evolution, as he steps away from his former identity to explore more intimate and experimental projects. Under Ging, he's diving into his own artistry, focusing on solo music that delves into raw emotions and self-expression. His recent works, which he describes as more honest and vulnerable, showcase his vocal talents and songwriting abilities, revealing another layer of his multifaceted creativity. Though his focus has shifted, the impact of Frank Dukes’ past on the industry is still felt, and his new journey as Ging is already proving to be just as influential and boundary-pushing. For listeners who’ve followed his production journey, Ging represents a deeper, more personal side of an artist constantly reinventing himself.

My Favorite Album:

• The Way of Ging

My Favorite Songs:

• Hi, I’m Frank Dukes

• Funeral for a Prince

Brandon’s Evening Echoes

Brandon Banks

Brandon Banks is carving out his own space in the R&B and soul landscape with a sound that’s both raw and refined. This singer-songwriter effortlessly blends smooth, soulful melodies with introspective lyrics, creating music that hits on a deeply emotional level. His storytelling pulls from personal experiences, often exploring themes of love, struggle, and self-discovery. Banks' voice carries a unique warmth—soft yet powerful—that draws you into his world and keeps you there.

His debut project, Static, is a testament to his artistry, showcasing a rich mix of laid-back grooves, jazz-infused instrumentals, and vulnerable songwriting. Each track feels meticulously crafted, balancing polished production with the unfiltered authenticity of his vocals. Recently, he’s been releasing singles that continue to evolve his sound, adding elements of modern R&B production while staying true to his soulful roots. Brandon Banks is an artist to watch for those who crave substance in their music, delivering tracks that are as thought-provoking as they are smooth.

My Favorite Project:

• Static

My Favorite Songs:

• Pico

• Lucy

Playlist of the Week: 
Slowed & Reverb

This week’s playlist, "Slowed and Reverb," takes you on a dreamy, immersive ride through the rich sounds of artists like Jaden, Daniel Caesar, and FKJ. Experience their music in a whole new light as the tempo drops, and every beat, lyric, and melody becomes more profound. Jaden's atmospheric tracks gain new layers of emotion, Daniel Caesar’s soulful vocals become even more intimate, and FKJ's smooth instrumentals wash over you like a calm wave. It’s the perfect soundtrack for those late-night vibes or moments when you want to get lost in a slowed-down world.