Pittsburgh-based independent label Arucca Flyboy is making waves as Stone Soup Vol. 1 climbed to No. 17 on the iTunes Hip-Hop/Rap Albums chart just one day after its release.
Independent music continues to prove that major moments are no longer reserved for major labels. Just one day after its release, Stone Soup Vol. 1, the latest compilation from Pittsburgh-based independent label Arucca Flyboy, climbed to No. 17 on the iTunes Hip-Hop/Rap Album Chart, marking one of the label’s strongest chart performances to date.
The project debuted at No. 40 before quickly rising through the rankings, demonstrating strong early support from listeners and further strengthening Arucca Flyboy’s reputation within independent hip-hop.
An Independent Release Making an Early Impact
For founder Antjuan “Tjuan Benafactor” Washington and the Arucca Flyboy team, the chart achievement represents another milestone in the label’s steady growth since its founding in 2007.
According to the chart rankings, Stone Soup Vol. 1 reached No. 17, placing it alongside releases from hip hops biggest artists & labels and illustrating the growing reach of Tjuan Benafactor & his Arucca Flyboy imprint in today’s streaming and digital marketplace.
The rapid climb reflects the enthusiasm surrounding the project and the loyal audience the label has cultivated over nearly two decades.
A Compilation Built on Collaboration
The 11-track project brings together a diverse roster of artists from across the Arucca Flyboy family and its collaborators.
Featured performers include Tjuan Benafactor, CyCy Couture, Nahligebone, Chickii Chick, DeeHerm DaVoice, Gutta Reese, Slim, Lil’ Flip, and others, creating a compilation that highlights multiple voices while maintaining a cohesive hip-hop sound.
Production is handled by DJ Banger, Tjuan Benafactor, Mixking Magic, Anno Domini, Joe November, and additional producers, giving the album a variety of musical styles while remaining grounded in authentic hip-hop production.
Continuing a Legacy of Independent Success
Stone Soup Vol. 1 follows two previous Arucca Flyboy compilation projects that helped establish the label’s presence in independent music.
The label’s first compilation, 80’s Babies hosted by DJ Vlad, introduced its collaborative approach, while Gone But Never Forgotten reached the iTunes Hip-Hop charts upon release. With Stone Soup Vol. 1, Arucca Flyboy continues building on that foundation by bringing together artists from across its expanding roster & network.
The album’s title reflects the well-known concept that great things can be created when everyone contributes something meaningful. That philosophy carries throughout the project, with each artist adding a distinct voice to the overall collection.
Representing Pittsburgh’s Independent Music Scene
Beyond the chart position, the release highlights Pittsburgh’s continued contribution to independent hip-hop.
“We dropped this yesterday and we’re already at No. 17 on iTunes,” said Cory Eaux, Arucca Flyboy’s Director of Artist Relations. “This is for Pittsburgh. This is for independent music.”
The early success demonstrates how independent labels can build national audiences through consistent releases, artist development, and direct engagement with listeners.
Expanding the Arucca Flyboy Catalog
Founded in 2007, Arucca Flyboy has developed into an independent record label and music distribution company with releases distributed through companies including Island Def Jam, Capitol Music Group, Intercept Music, KVZ Music, 1RPM, and Empire Distribution. The label has also established working relationships with Showoffgang Music and V.I.P. Records, while continuing to focus on authentic hip-hop releases.
As Stone Soup Vol. 1 continues its rollout, its early chart performance adds another chapter to the label’s history of independent releases finding commercial success without relying on major-label backing.
For Arucca Flyboy, the achievement is another reminder that independent artists and labels continue to shape today’s music industry, one release at a time.
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