In this energetic and purpose-driven episode of Beyond Balling, host LaLa Moten sits down with J Addo—recording artist, event curator, and DMV native—for a conversation that blends Afrobeats, community uplift, and legacy-building. Known for his infectious stage presence and commitment to giving back, J Addo opens up about how music, culture, and service shape everything he does.

🏀🎶 What You’ll Hear: ✔️ J Addo’s journey from children’s choir to viral DMV Afro-R&B sensation ✔️ How growing up in Silver Spring and his Ghanaian roots inform his sound and mission ✔️ The power of vulnerability in music—and why every lyric should reflect real life ✔️ Hosting his first-ever celebrity influencer basketball game on his birthday ✔️ Why it’s about more than hooping—it’s about youth engagement, legacy, and opportunity ✔️ Launching his nonprofit initiatives like For My Village to serve kids and creatives ✔️ What’s next: music, new performances, and continuing to lead with purpose

This episode is all about finding your lane, doing it with intention, and remembering it’s always bigger than you.

Follow J. Addo:

https://www.instagram.com/jaddo301/

https://lnkfi.re/J.Addo

🎙️ Follow LaLa Moten & Beyond Balling:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lala.moten/

Podcast Page: www.thexiidc.com/beyondballing

In this deep and dynamic episode of Beyond Balling, host LaLa Moten sits down with DMV-based rapper, producer, and musical genius Mawty Maw. From growing up with jazz legends in the house to producing the viral University of Maryland anthem “Gold Rush,” Mawty opens up about his journey through music, sports, and self-discovery.

🎶 What’s Inside This Episode:

✔️ Growing up in a musical household—son of jazz legend Marcus Roberts

✔️ Finding his sound by blending jazz, hip hop & DMV culture

✔️ His early sports connection and local roots at DeMatha High School

✔️ The making of “Gold Rush” & collaborating with UMD’s marching band

✔️ Creating music for community, culture, and black women empowerment

✔️ Why consistency, humility, and collaboration matter more than clout

✔️ Insight on navigating the music industry, staying intentional, and getting uncomfortable for growth

This episode is a masterclass in music-meets-mindset from one of the DMV’s most intentional voices. If you’re into production, purpose-driven art, and building legacy—press play.

🎧 Follow Mawty Maw:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/mawtymaw

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@mawtymaw

“Go Shawty” & more: www.linktr.ee/mawtymaw

🎙️ Follow LaLa Moten & Beyond Balling:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lala.moten/

Podcast Page: www.thexiidc.com/beyondballing

In this inspiring and revealing episode of Beyond Ballin, Lala Moten sits down with Jordan Smith, the standout Penn State cornerback turned recording artist, Usasfriends. They dive into his journey from the football field to the music industry, the struggles of reinventing himself after injuries, and the passion that fuels his artistry.

💭 Topics Covered in This Episode: 🔥 The transition from college football to music 🎶 How music became his therapy after injuries ended his career 🏈 The reality of being a D1 athlete & the sacrifices required 💡 The meaning behind his artist name ‘Usasfriends’ 📖 His songwriting process & inspirations behind his latest music 🎤 A live in-studio performance of his new song "003Rollercoasting"

This conversation is raw, real, and packed with wisdom for athletes, artists, and anyone chasing a dream beyond their first passion.

📺 Subscribe for more: [Insert Beyond Ballin YouTube link]

🎤 Follow Usasfriends (Jordan Smith):

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/usasfriends_/
• YouTube: www.youtube.com/@usafriends
• Spotify: www.open.spotify.com/artist/Usasfriends
• Latest Single – "003Rollercoasting" ft. Aden Simone: www.thexiidc.com/003

🎙️ Follow Lala Moten & Beyond Ballin:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lala.moten/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LawrenciaMoten Twitter/X: https://x.com/ayee__lala?lang=en