The award-winning voice of North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, Georgia.

The Chant
The award-winning voice of North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, Georgia.

The Chant
The award-winning voice of North Cobb High School in Kennesaw, Georgia.

The Chant
Ivan Mendoza

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor

Ivan Mendoza is a senior at NC and has been a part of The Chant staff since 2022. Since his adolescence, he always pursued reading and writing and felt that The Chant provided the perfect outlet for him to write about whatever he wanted. From music reviews to thorough investigations to award-winning documentaries, Mendoza is not afraid to expose his thoughts and opinions on the world around him. Whenever he’s not writing for The Chant, Mendoza is either filming a video, biking or wasting his entire paycheck on amazing novels, memoirs or superb vinyls. Find him on Instagram at @ivans.interludes.  

All content by Ivan Mendoza
Magnet senior Kameron Harvey practices for the upcoming orchestral renditions of music from iconic films such as “La La Land.” As the school year comes to a close, NC Orchestra members will perform at an upcoming concert in the Performing Arts Center. While numerous seniors count down the days until they join the ranks of their future universities, Orchestra seniors practice with their string instruments and prepare themselves for their final movements.

NC seniors prepare for their orchestral finales

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
May 2, 2024
As prominent rappers Drake and Kendrick Lamar throw shots at each other through subliminal disses and ruthless lyrics, hip-hop fans debate who stands out as the superior artist. From his creative writing to his energetic cadence, Lamar separates himself from his peers as one of the most critically acclaimed artists of the current generation. With releases such as “Like That” and “euphoria”, Lamar continues to showcase his pengame and dedication to music.

“The big three”: Kendrick Lamar remains the greatest artist of the generation

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
May 2, 2024
As the generations of colonization and forced removal of Indigenous populations remain ingrained in United States history, Native Americans continue to struggle from their historical trauma and it results in multiple disparities they face in comparison to the rest of the US population.

[Photo] Roots of Inequality

Rose Ordonio, Page Editor
April 28, 2024
When Metro Boomin and Future released “WE DON’T TRUST YOU” March 2024, hip-hop fans became enamored with the energetic production and the hidden features. As fans anticipated the influential duo’s next collaborative effort, the famous rapper and producer announced their next album would be released April 12. While “WE DON’T TRUST YOU” contains hard-hitting instrumentation and harsh deliveries, “WE STILL DON’T TRUST YOU” features mellow performances with retro undertones.

Future & Metro Boomin collaborate once again with “WE STILL DON’T TRUST YOU”

Ivan Mendoza, Editor
April 26, 2024
Nationally-ranked No. 37 and No. 4 in the state, junior Keira Beaumont takes the lead as NC hosted their fourth track meet in two years on both April 17 and 19. As schools around Cobb County battled each other for a spot in sectionals, the NC track team brought their best and placed among the various events. As NC senior athletes showcased their abilities for one of the last time, the growing track program looks forward to a bright future.

Speedy Strides: NC hosts Track and Field regionals

Ivan Mendoza and Rose Ordonio
April 24, 2024
As people continue to rely on music for escapism and relatability, musicians utilize their talents to create amazing albums and captivating tracks. Music benefits people in various ways: it helps reduce stress and anxiety while boosting an individual’s energy and creativity. From critically acclaimed singers to influential producers, people can create and discover an endless amount of music to provide unforgettable experiences.

5 spectacular and underrated albums of the 2020s to listen to

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
April 22, 2024
Ever since America earned its independence, nativism and anti-immigrant rhetoric have built divisions between political parties and promoted hatred of innocent immigrants; in the wake of Laken Riley’s death, and the 2024 election, media outlets and politicians continue to paint foreign-born residents and citizens in a negative light.

American immigrants and the dilemma of political pawns

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
April 19, 2024
April 1, prolific basketball player LeBron James entered the NC auditorium and surprised the NC varsity basketball team. While players rushed to James for his autograph and his aura, the athlete wanted to challenge the team to a game of 21. After the NC team expectedly lost to the glorious king, Principal Matthew Moody thanked James for his arrival and designated the Lakers player as the temporary NC principal for April.

LeBron James ruthlessly destroys NC varsity basketball team

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
April 1, 2024
With the emergence of new AI programs such as ChatGPT, artificial intelligence (AI) has sprouted numerous headlines for its rapid abilities. As AI programs design images based on an individual’s prompt, people have started to utilize digital art in harmful ways. From spreading misinformation about upcoming events to non-consensual explicit content, AI images will continue to worsen due to people typing immoral prompts into search engines.

The increasing danger of AI-generated images

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
March 1, 2024
February 22, 2024, tragedy struck one of America’s highest-ranking universities with the homicide of Laken Hope Riley. After a friend reported that Riley failed to return after a morning run, police officers found her body behind a lake at UGA. Shortly after, police arrested Jose Ibarra and charged him with eight criminal charges. As UGA members grieve the loss of a brilliant student, politicians have used Ibarra’s undocumented status as a talking point for immigration reform.

Former University of Georgia student murdered on campus

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
March 1, 2024
As February 1 marks the start of Black History Month, people worldwide recognize Black history and their remarkable achievements, mainly in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. During February, people support Black businesses, visit historical African American sites, learn about prominent Black figures and read Black literature. While people continue to spread awareness about Black history, the efforts of strong Black individuals still linger today, most of which contribute to our everyday lives. In honor of Black History Month, The Chant has composed an article on several inventions made or improved by creative Black innovators.

Beyond boundaries: The legacy of Black inventions

Lauren Lee, Callie Kinsinger, Valentina Gonzalez, Nathaniel Jordan, Callie Kinsinger, Ciara Whimbush, Ivan Mendoza, Jasmyn Mitchell, Mia Kirkwood, Mackenzie Blanco, Addie Hill, Jacey Cuffie, Rosalyn Schwanke, Jameson Johnson, Rose Ordonio, and Jasmina Buranich
February 14, 2024
As Americans live in the comfort of their suburban homes and listen to news broadcasters discuss Hamas and Israel, Palestinian journalists courageously showcase the massacre that innocent civilians routinely endure in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. At a time when prominent American organizations may avoid discussing the ethnic cleansing of Palestinians, listening to the journalists in Gaza remains important and Americans should amplify their voices. Although individuals may identify calls for Palestinian freedom as anti-Semitic language, exposing the reality of Palestinians constantly under attack does not convey hatred toward Jewish people.

Why Palestinian journalists deserve recognition

Ivan Mendoza and Rose Ordonio
January 29, 2024
January 23, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences finally revealed the year’s nominees for their 23 film-related categories. Movies such as “Poor Things,” “Oppenheimer” and “Killers of the Flower Moon” dominated this year’s nominations, and movies such as “Barbie” and “Maestro” also received recognition from the Academy. Native Americans also make their mark in the Oscars as Lily Gladstone became the first Native American to receive the Best Actress nomination.

2024 Oscars nominations finally release

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
January 27, 2024
Since the 18th century, Mexicans have utilized corridos to illustrate stories with colorful language and string instrumentation. Corridos tell heroic stories about romantic love or combine accordions and guitars with somber lyrics about heartbreak. From prominent groups such as Los Tigres del Norte to legendary individuals like Chalino Sánchez, corridos have transformed into various sub-genres while still maintaining the concept of narrative writing.

From Chalino Sánchez to Peso Pluma: the current state of Mexican corridos

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
January 22, 2024
2023 became a frightful year for both Cobb County School District (CCSD) students and educators; as teachers face possible penalties for their book recommendations or participation in book-related events, students feel restricted in their abilities to read from CCSD libraries. As a result of powerful organizations such as Moms for Liberty and political figures such as Ron DeSantis, school districts have removed numerous books regarding racial and LGBTQ+ issues at an alarming rate. However, students strongly advocate for the end of book censorship and showcase how controversial books may leave a positive impact on them.

The relentless removal of books in America

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
December 19, 2023
In the literary world, memoirs exist so influencers can open up about difficult moments in their lives and chronicle their issues through writing. However, various celebrities have published their stories after the tumultuous pandemic, leading audiences to feel conflicted about their memoirs. Celebrities such as Jada Pinkett Smith have embarrassed themselves in order to promote their autobiographies, and the poor writers within Hollywood have ruined the general expectations of celebrity memoirs.

The current issue with celebrity memoirs

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
December 14, 2023
The NC Swim and Dive team entered the Pope Plunger meet with hopes of beating their personal records and successfully achieving the county cut. After the team finished their dryland exercises and swam swiftly in the Cobb Aquatic Center, the boys and girls both placed 4th in their respective competitions. Dylan Pham, the sole diver for the NC team, successfully outperformed all participating schools and earned 1st place.

Making a splash: NC swims at the Pope Pungler meet

Ivan Mendoza and Rose Ordonio
December 14, 2023
Kanye West stands out as a pioneer in hip-hop, whose older works inspire several current artists in their journeys. West built a name for himself with his chipmunk soul production to his memorable lyrics and moments in pop culture. However, with the release of underwhelming tracks and controversial statements, longtime fans feel conflicted about his creativity as an artist.

The old Kanye will never come back

Ivan Mendoza, page editor
December 14, 2023
The current generation of teenagers grew up listening to artists such as Tyler, The Creator and Lil Yachty. Christian Isaac Limardo took generational musical influences and added them to his unique sound. From drawing visual arts to performing melodic rap over beats he finds on YouTube, Limardo showcases immense talent with his creative endeavors. Limardo stands out as an underrated Hispanic visionary at NC who deserves acknowledgment for his musical capabilities.

The musical creativity of Christian “Isaac” Limardo

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
December 13, 2023
As TikTok users rave about their favorite novels and curate edits for their book recommendations, people view “A Little Life” as a classic in 21st-century literature. TikTokers and book fanatics also describe it as a saddening book with realistic depictions of people and heartbreaking prose. From play adaptations to approval from critics, Yanagihara wrote a heart-wrenching book with a powerful message.

“A Little Life” stands as a contemporary classic among readers

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
December 12, 2023
As numerous battle royale games have become popular in the video game industry, Fortnite has remained a powerful force for gamers worldwide. From its stellar collaborations with commercial franchises to its nostalgic gameplay, the game continues to maintain popularity years after its initial release. Epic Games incorporates several creative modes within the world of Fortnite, and their marketing will consistently attract new and old players like moths to a flame.

“Fortnite” continues to thrive as a game with endless possibilities

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
December 11, 2023
The multi-talented artist Zack Fox returned to Atlanta November 11 to perform for his North American tour. Fox performed various fan favorites and even teased new songs for his fans who attended the Masquerade venue in downtown Atlanta. Throughout the entire concert, Fox provided his fans with comedic bits and outlandish energy that left his fans with jubilee.

Zack Fox seamlessly blends comedy and music in Atlanta performance

Ivan Mendoza, Page Editor
December 2, 2023
As several second-immigrant children try to find their identities in America, they rely on books and stories to help them navigate their heritages. From reading about assimilation to learning about dangerous journeys through the Sonoran desert, Hispanic people indulge themselves in modern literature that intertwines their ethnicity with poignant writing.

[Photo] Phenomenal books to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

Ivan Mendoza, Editor
October 15, 2023
The Toronto-based rapper needs no introduction, as he continuously breaks musical records and stays on the Billboard charts. With his eighth studio album “For All The Dogs” finally released after multiple delays, fans expected an eclectic project reminiscent of “Her Loss” and his older projects. Instead, Drake released a subpar album with a bloated tracklist and a handful of excellent songs.

Drake lets all the dogs down

Ivan Mendoza, Editor
October 12, 2023
Former football president Luis Rubiales currently faces potential fines or jail time and has caused worldwide hysteria for his inappropriate actions toward football player Jenni Hermoso. Up until his resignation September 10, prominent leaders and courageous female players spoke out against Rubiales. Ever since the incident, Spain has experienced nationwide protests reminiscent of the #MeToo movement and growing critiques regarding the wage gap between male and female football players.

Luis Rubiales officially resigns as Spanish soccer president

Ivan Mendoza, Editor
September 17, 2023
With comparisons to artists such as Mitski and Chet Baker, Laufey recently garnered recognition in the mainstream world of music because of her talents. By single-handedly reviving old genres and singing with a mesmerizing voice, she quickly became the face of modern jazz music with her debut LP. Now, with a new album under her belt, she continues to ascend into popularity, and fans feel enthralled with her songwriting and singing.

Laufey bewitches her fans with majestic studio album

Ivan Mendoza, Editor
September 15, 2023
Released August 25, 1998, Lauryn Hill’s breakout album “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” became an instant classic for its catchy choruses and beautiful lyricism. As the album turns 25 years old and fans buy tickets for her upcoming anniversary tour, her only studio album continues to inspire music enjoyers across the world.

How Lauryn Hill brilliantly miseducated the world of Hip-Hop

Ivan Mendoza, Editor
August 24, 2023
In early May, “The Good Doctor” began to grow in popularity across TikTok’s massive platform. With users posting certain clips out of context, the cable television show recently turned heads for its absurdity and dramatization. The show also faced criticism for its depiction of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), even though the show does an excellent job in its portrayal.

The resurging debates about “The Good Doctor”

Ivan Mendoza, Entertainment Editor
May 17, 2023
Due to recent outcries regarding critical race theory (CRT) and LGBTQ+ representation, parents and schools have started to enforce rules on the books children and students can read. As a result of vague policies and misinterpretations, books with powerful writing and messaging have become inaccessible to students across America.

Banned books to read over the summer

Ivan Mendoza, Entertainment Editor
May 15, 2023
Five years have passed since the initial release of “Die Lit”, and Playboi Carti has continued to evolve as an artist and his music impacts a plethora of artists such as Yeat and Ken Carson. However, “Die Lit” contains numerous infectious melodies and earworms within its runtime, and the songs can range from mellow performances to punk-inspired anthems. The album also features prominent artists such as Lil Uzi Vert and Young Nudy which helped elevate the listener’s overall experience.

Revisiting the energetic experience of Playboi Carti’s “Die Lit”

Ivan Mendoza, Entertainment Editor
May 11, 2023
As polarizing activists such as Angela Davis and Queen Yonasda protest against the Atlanta Public Safety Training Center, the 85-acre property continues to divide local residents and stir up controversy amongst a plethora of communities. After the brutal death of one of their own activists, the movement against Cop City will only continue to grow and people will continue to retaliate by any means necessary.

Why Atlanta needs to stop Cop City

Ivan Mendoza, Entertainment Editor
April 17, 2023
Grammy-winning singer Daniel Caesar continues to shake the frame of R&B music with his soothing vocals and eloquent songwriting. After making his fans wait nearly four years for his third album, “NEVER ENOUGH” showcases Caesar at a moment of vulnerability and his artistic talents certainly improved over the years. This long-awaited endeavor features prolific artists such as Omar Apollo and Ty Dolla $ign, complimenting the otherwise mellow musician.

“NEVER ENOUGH” by Daniel Caesar remains an ethereal and smooth project

Ivan Mendoza, Entertainment Editor
April 14, 2023
JPEGMAFIA and Danny Brown have formed themselves into catalysts within the experimental hip-hop genre, and fans only anticipated their efforts as a collaborative duo. When this album initially released March 24, 2023, it provided a stellar project with unique production and the amazing energy that quickly solidified itself as an essential album for experimental hip-hop listeners.

JPEGMAFIA and Danny Brown debut a surreal collaborative project

Ivan Mendoza, Entertainment Editor
April 13, 2023
Ice Spice graced the NC Performance Arts Center (PAC) on March 31. As she performed popular songs such as “Munch (Feelin’ U)” and “Bikini Bottom,” students and teachers alike erupted the auditorium with cheers and applause. As NC attendees left the PAC, they left with a change of heart and will never forget her remarkable songwriting.

“In Ha Mood”: Ice Spice does a special guest performance on the NC stage

Ivan Mendoza, Entertainment Editor
March 31, 2023
Known for his crude humor and interactions with prominent artists, Adin Ross reigned over Twitch with seven million followers and millions of dollars in revenue. However, after collaborating with the controversial figure and former kickboxer Andrew Tate, his beliefs have shifted immensely and his content continues to spiral downward.

How Adin Ross descended into madness

Ivan Mendoza, Entertainment Editor
March 12, 2023
Columbian-American music artist Kali Uchis slowly solidified herself as a talented curator in the musical hemisphere. From her collaborations with prominent artists such as SZA and Tyler, The Creator to her Grammy-winning performances, Uchis has always sung with heaven-like vocals and mesmerizing choruses. With the release of her latest album, she does not disappoint her fanbase whatsoever; rather, she continues to improve her natural talents.

Kali Uchis unveils love and beauty in “Red Moon in Venus”

Ivan Mendoza, Entertainment Editor
March 7, 2023
With the help of social media platforms such as TikTok to build loyal fanbases, Ice Spice and PinkPantheress continue to shock the music industry with their vibrant personalities and ability in crafting short and replayable music. As Ice Spice called out the munches of the world and as PinkPantheress curated addictive earworms, their song together certainly proved itself as a collaboration music listeners did not know they needed.

The unlikely stardom of Ice Spice and PinkPantheress

Ivan Mendoza, Entertainment Editor
February 13, 2023
the unheard voices.

The Unheard Voices

Ivan Mendoza, Entertainment Editor
February 10, 2023
Florida governor Ronald Dion DeSantis transformed into a spectacle within the political hemisphere for his aggressive fight against a woke agenda and left-leaning ideologies. But over time, his words and actions have added extra setbacks for several POCs and minorities in Florida and America. From his anti-abortion campaigns to the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ bill to abusive power toward undocumented Americans, DeSantis only rises in popularity alongside his fractured mindset.

The fractured politics of Ron DeSantis

Zioni Moore and Ivan Mendoza
February 10, 2023
Lil Yachty released “Let’s Start Here.” on January 27, a mesmerizing album layered with hypnotic vocal performances and lush instrumentation. For years, people would only view Yachty as a rapper who mumbled and as an artist that prioritized melodies over lyrics. However, he recently broke the mold with this new project where he takes heavy influence from Pink Floyd but fuses his own charisma and artistry into the mix.

Lil Yachty redefines himself with “Let’s Start Here.”

Ivan Mendoza, Entertainment Editor
February 1, 2023
The genre of hip-hop remains a powerful force in the music industry. Hip-hop stemmed from turntables and mixings of different genres, and it slowly transformed into a vessel where Black Americans can vocalize their issues of social injustice. However, as the genre rose in popularity and as it dispersed into various subgenres, Americans grew to view their words as violent and autobiographical. Now, rappers on trial face critical conditions as prosecutors present their fictional lyrics to jurors.

How America constantly prosecutes rap

Ivan Mendoza, Reporter
December 8, 2022
“Atlanta” aired its final episode on November 10, 2022, marking an end to one of the greatest shows on television. Donald Glover created a series that blended surrealism with emotional value; with the help of creative minds such as Hiro Murai and Stephen Glover, they told a unique story that depicts success in the rap industry and America as a whole.

The brilliance of “Atlanta”

Ivan Mendoza, Reporter
November 17, 2022
“Her Loss” marks the first collaborative album between the two artists Drake and 21 Savage; it acts as an hour-long rollercoaster with its ups and downs. From their unmatched chemistry to their memorable lyrics, in addition to superb features from Travis Scott and Lil Yatchy, this recent addition to their discographies offers great music for returning fans and new listeners.

Drake and 21 Savage curate an eclectic experience with “Her Loss”

Ivan Mendoza, Reporter
November 16, 2022
Kanye “Ye” West always made headlines for his achievements and controversies, but he recently shattered his public image with his hostile comments about the Jewish community. As his statements reach antisemitic hate groups and cause public outrage, the topic of Ye becomes complex once people recognize his bipolar disorder as a factor in his actions.

The exploitation of Kanye “Ye” West

Ivan Mendoza, Reporter
November 3, 2022
Released October 22, 2012, Kendrick Lamar’s concept album “good kid, m.A.A.d city” remains a potent experience where the renowned artist reveals his upbringing in a climate of gang violence and police brutality. With features from artists such as Drake, Dr. Dre and Mary J. Blige, the listener follows Lamar’s journey in Compton, a city that he adores but resents simultaneously.

Revisiting the m.A.A.d city of Kendrick Lamar

Ivan Mendoza, Reporter
October 22, 2022
Working with artists such as A$AP Rocky, Mac Demarco and Earl Sweatshirt, Jean Dawson made a name for himself in the underground music landscape. His ability to blend genres and unique instrumentation catches the attention of multiple indie rock fans. After a two-year wait for his previous album, CHAOS NOW*, an album full of audible landscapes and interesting experimentation, finally released October 7, 2022.

Exploring the chaos in Jean Dawson’s new album

Ivan Mendoza, Reporter
October 11, 2022
For years Dan Schneider curated several television shows that would resonate with several childhoods. However, the curtain behind the scenes seemingly revealed itself and now Schneider faces severe backlash for his heinous actions. As the renowned producer went on to create beloved shows such as “iCarly” and “Zoey 101”, he abused his power over writers and child actors in both verbal and sexual ways.

The Perversion of Dan Schneider

Ivan Mendoza, Reporter
October 6, 2022
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