How PHRESHBUZZ Magazine Began — And Why 2026 Is the Year of the Next Wave

The Origins of PHRESHBUZZ Magazine — And Why 2026 Marks Its Resurgence

In 2009, PHRESHBUZZ Magazine was born from the grind, the culture, and the vision of its founder, Lonnie Neal. He was just stepping into the entertainment world as a beginner photographer, documenting the local music scene while connecting with artists throughout Los Angeles. Those early relationships shaped his eye, sharpened his storytelling, and laid the foundation for what would soon become one of LA’s most authentic voices in hip-hop media.

One of Lonnie’s greatest inspirations was his friend, the late Nipsey Hussle. Their creative conversations, mutual respect, and shared passion for uplifting the community pushed Lonnie to go harder — not only behind the camera, but as a writer and cultural observer. Nipsey’s influence ultimately ignited the first edition of PHRESHBUZZ Magazine.

PHRESHBUZZ in the Early Days — A Real Hip-Hop Magazine

Before the digital era took over, PHRESHBUZZ was printed and physically distributed in:

• 7-Elevens

• Local corner stores

• Barbershops

• Beauty supplies

• Mom-and-pop shops

The magazine quickly gained attention for featuring real rising artists, giving early shine to names who would later take over the industry.

Some of the iconic artists featured in the original PHRESHBUZZ included:

• Mann — known for “Buzzin’” and “Feel Like Money”

• Nipsey Hussle — groundbreaking LA legend

• Ray J — singer, entrepreneur, TV star

• YG — West Coast hitmaker and Def Jam artist

• Ludacris — Grammy-winning rapper and actor

• Rich Boy — known for the hit “Throw Some D’s”

• And many more rising and established artists

PHRESHBUZZ wasn’t just documenting culture — it was part of it.

But as the internet began dominating media, traditional print magazines struggled to compete with the speed and volume of online content. Eventually, PHRESHBUZZ stopped printing, but the mission behind it never disappeared.

2026 — The Digital Comeback: Bigger, Smarter, Fully Interactive

Now, in 2026, PHRESHBUZZ is returning stronger than ever. Not only is it back — it’s transformed into a fully digital, interactive, click-driven magazine built for today’s creators and audiences.

What makes the new PHRESHBUZZ elite:

• Clickable Social Media Profiles: Instantly link your Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

• Music Video + Streaming Integration: Artists can embed their videos, tracks, and reels directly in their feature.

• High School Student Spotlights: Journalism, photography, and creative arts students get their own monthly columns to develop their craft.

• Mom-and-Pop Store Features: Local businesses finally get the visibility they deserve.

• Konnect Youth Collaboration: A nonprofit that helps students build confidence, creativity, and leadership through media.

• Monthly Digital Releases: PHRESHBUZZ drops a brand-new, fully interactive issue once a month.

This is not just a magazine. This is a community builder, a creative platform, and a network for artists and entrepreneurs.

Where PHRESHBUZZ Will Live

The new digital PHRESHBUZZ will be displayed on QR stands and clear kiosks inside:

• Barbershops

• Salons

• Beauty supply stores

• Tattoo shops

• Dentist offices

• Medical clinics

• Mom-and-pop stores

• High schools & colleges

People can scan, read, watch, and connect instantly.

A New Era for Hip-Hop, Culture, and Community

PHRESHBUZZ officially relaunches January 1, 2026, with its first full digital issue dropping in February.

This new era is dedicated to:

• Showcasing who’s next up

• Giving real shine to independent artists

• Highlighting youth talent and school programs

• Strengthening community businesses

• Celebrating hip-hop and creative culture

Get ready for something fresh, something interactive, something PHRESHBUZZ.

2026 is the rebirth. And this time, we’re not competing — we’re leading.