Def Jam's new star August Alsina has finalized the release date for his upcoming debut album, 'Testimony,' which will drop on April 15, 2014.
Prior to the forthcoming effort, the New Orleans native laid the groundwork for his budding career by dropping five mixtapes starting with 'Untitled' in 2011. His biggest achievement to date came after landing the top spot on Billboard's R&B/Hip-Hop chart with his smash single "I Luv This Sh*t," featuring Trinidad James.
As far as his upcoming debut, the selection of the April 15th was important for August as it is the birth date of his older brother Melvin LaBranch III who was slain in New Orleans. The album is dedicated to his brother's memory.
Led by the single "Make It Home," featuring Young Jeezy and produced by the Featherstones, Testimony will explore personal hardships and "serious family issues including death, homelessness and addiction."
"I struggle with how much of myself to give to the people," Alsina said. "How much I want my personal business to be judged. I think the EP struck a good balance of who I am and what I've been through, but that was just the beginning. Nothing is held back on Testimony. When people hear my story, and see that I came from nothing, they'll see that it's possible for them too."
The project will also feature appearances and production from rapper Yo Gotti, frequent collaborator Knucklehead, Eric Hudson, Drumma Boy, Jasper Cameron, the Exclusives and Cassius Jay.
Leading up to the release of the album, August will join 2Chainz on the '2 Good To Be T.R.U' national tour. The show will kick off on February 4th in Boston and commence on March 24th in Washington D.C.
2 Good 2 Be T.R.U. Tour Dates – with 2 Chainz and Pusha T:
2/04 — Boston, MA @ House Of Blues
2/05 — New York, NY @ Roseland Ballroom
2/07 — Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theatre
2/08 — Milwaukee, WI @ Eagles Ballroom
2/10 — Denver, CO @ Ogden Theatre
2/12 — Boise, ID @ Revolution Center
2/13 — Seattle, WA @ Showbox SoDo
2/18 — Oakland, CA @ Fox Theater
2/20 — Santa Ana, CA @ The Observatory
2/21 — Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium
2/22 — Las Vegas, NV @ The Joint
2/28 — Saint Louis, MO @ Chaifetz Arena
3/01 — Indianapolis, IN @ Egyptian Theatre
3/02 — Cincinnati, OH @ Bank of Kentucky
3/13 — Dallas, TX @ South Side Ballroom
3/14 — Houston, TX @ Bayou Music Center
3/17 — Saint Petersburg, FL @ Jannus Live
3/18 — Miami Beach, FL @ The Fillmore Miami Beach at The Jackie Gleason
3/20 — Charlotte, NC @ The Fillmore Charlotte
3/22 — Upper Darby, PA @ Tower Theatre
3/24 — Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club
If you’re a fan of August Alsina, then you’re in for a treat. The singer has recently announced that he will be dropping his debut album on the birth date of his slain brother, Melvin LaBranch III. This is not just any ordinary release date; it holds significant meaning and importance to August Alsina.
Melvin LaBranch III was more than just a brother to August Alsina; he was also his best friend and confidant. Unfortunately, Melvin’s life was cut short when he was shot and killed in New Orleans in 2010. Since then, August has been carrying the weight of this tragic loss, but he has also been using it as fuel to pursue his dreams and make something out of his life.
By selecting the birth date of his late brother as the release date for his debut album, August is paying homage to Melvin’s memory while also celebrating their bond through music. It’s a beautiful way to honor someone who meant so much to him while also achieving a personal milestone in his career.
The Meaning Behind August Alsina’s Album Release Date
So, you’re probably wondering why August Alsina chose his slain brother’s birth date as the release date for his debut album, right?
Well, it all comes down to the deep emotional connection that he shares with his late sibling. The R&B singer has been open about how his brother’s death affected him and how it propelled him to pursue a career in music.
August Alsina’s brother, Melvin LaBranch III, was shot and killed back in 2010. This tragic event left a profound impact on the singer and inspired him to turn towards music as an outlet for expressing his emotions. In fact, many of the songs on his debut album ‘Testimony’ are dedicated to his brother and the struggles that he went through after losing him.
By releasing his debut album on his late brother’s birthday, August Alsina is paying tribute to Melvin in a very personal way. It symbolizes not only a celebration of life but also a recognition of how much influence Melvin had on August’s journey. This move showcases just how connected he still feels to his brother even after all these years have passed since Melvin’s untimely death.
The Impact of Melvin LaBranch III on August Alsina’s Life and Career
You can feel the weight of his brother’s absence in every note of August Alsina’s music, a constant reminder of the impact that Melvin LaBranch III had on his life and career.
Melvin wasn’t just August’s older brother; he was also his manager and mentor. He played an instrumental role in shaping August’s musical talent and teaching him the ropes of the industry.
Melvin’s untimely death left a void in August’s life that he’s struggled to fill. In many ways, releasing his debut album on the anniversary of Melvin’s birth is a tribute to his brother and a way for August to keep his memory alive.
The album is more than just music; it’s a testament to the bond between two brothers who shared a passion for creating art. As you listen to August Alsina’s music, you can hear the pain, love, and loss that he’s experienced throughout his life.
His lyrics are raw and emotional, reflecting the struggles he’s faced both personally and professionally. Through it all, however, one thing remains constant: the memory of Melvin LaBranch III. His influence on August will never be forgotten as long as there’s music in this world.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the reason behind August Alsina’s album release date is much deeper than just a random choice. The selection of his slain brother’s birth date holds an emotional significance for the artist and serves as a tribute to his late sibling.
Melvin LaBranch III had a profound impact on August’s life and career, inspiring him to pursue music and providing him with unwavering support throughout his journey. It’s heartwarming to see August use this album as a way to honor his brother’s memory while also showcasing his own talent and growth as an artist.
Overall, August Alsina’s debut album is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a testament to the power of love, loss, and perseverance. Through his music, he pays homage to the person who played such an integral role in shaping who he has become today.
We can only hope that this album brings comfort not only to August but also to those who have lost loved ones themselves.
Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
