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Rayna Bass And Selim Bouab Named As Co-Presidents Of 300 Entertainment

In what marks the company’s first major in-house move since its acquisition by Warner Music Group in December of 2021, Kevin Liles, Co-Founder and CEO of 300 Entertainment, announced

Rayna Bass and Selim Bouab have been promoted to Co-Presidents of the entertainment brand.

Liles said, “My philosophy is to always surround myself with amazing, dedicated, passionate people, and I’ve been truly blessed to have Rayna and Selim at my side for the past eight years. This dream team has been dominating the hip hop space for a decade with an artist-first, independent mindset.”

“With deep experience across all lines of our business, Rayna and Selim have been essential players in building our company from the ground up, and I know they are destined for great things as we begin a new chapter in the ever-evolving book of 300,” he continued.

According to a news release, both Bass and Bouab are longtime employees of 300 Entertainment, joining the company in 2014.

Bass was 300 Entertainment’s first marketing hire in 2014 after a stint as a Marketing Assistant at Island Def Jam.

Her performance at the company earned her a promotion to Senior VP of Marketing in 2019. Bass has helmed innovative and highly successful marketing campaigns for label artists such as Megan Thee Stallion, Young Thug, Gunna, Mary J. Blige, Fetty Wap, Migos, Tee Grizzley, and others.

She said, “It’s always been our mission to serve artists at the highest level and to remain culturally driven. This has been the north star in our development as executives and leaders. We have a team of innovative and passionate individuals and I’m incredibly excited for the future.”

Bass has to accolades to back up the confidence Liles has placed on her shoulders. has won Libera, Webby, Clio Music, Shorty, and Telly awards for her work in marketing. She has been recognized on Billboard’s Women in Music, Hip Hop Power Players, 40 Under 40, and Indie Power Players lists, as well as Variety Magazine’s Hitmakers and Women’s Impact Lists.

“We’ve both had the fantastic experience of being part of the evolution of 300,” said Bouab.

An industry veteran, Selim Bouab will take the head of 300’s A&R department. In his portfolio, he can boast signing and developing some of the label’s biggest talents, including Megan Thee Stallion, Fetty Wap, and Tee Grizzley. Bouab has also facilitated notable releases from Young Thug, Gunna, Mary J. Blige, and others. Bouab is also the founder and head of the Unauthorized Entertainment record label, which operates under the 300 umbrella.

“Under Kevin’s brilliant guidance,” Bouab continued. “We’ve signed and developed artists who’ve topped the charts moved culture, and made a difference in the world.”

Bouab has previously worked with Def Jam, Asylum, and Sony Music Entertainment.

This mid-Black music month move-up promises to make the label an even more competitive force in the market.

Kendrick Lamar Reflects On His Initial Reluctance To Therapy

Kendrick Lamar recalled his hesitancy to go to therapy in a new Spotify mini-documentary.

K. Dot discussed multiple topics and spent time with locals in Spotify’s “A Day In Ghana with Kendrick Lamar.” The multi-platinum selling rapper mulled over his journey with therapy after mentioning a line from his new album Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers.

“We grew up where our parents don’t know about that,” Kendrick Lamar said regarding therapy. “Our grandparents don’t know about that. You live and you experience the s### that you go through and you deal with it right then and there. Or you don’t never deal with it.”

He continued, “We learn to hold all our s### in. S###, I’ma keep it 100 with you – that wasn’t my forte when people mentioned it to me. I’m still stuck how my pops think. ‘The f### I need therapy for?’ To challenge myself to go to therapy, s###, that’s like a whole new step in a whole new generation. That’s growth.”

Spotify’s mini-doc also showed Kendrick Lamar visiting the Freedom Skatepark in Ghana. The late designer Virgil Abloh was involved in the park’s creation before he passed away in 2021.

Watch the Kendrick Lamar mini-doc below.

‘Houston We Have a Problem!’: J. Prince Calls For Justice In Khylie Sorrells Murder

Hip-Hop mogul and all-around O.G. J Prince is letting it be known that he is not ok with the alleged actions of the Houston gang member charged with capital murder and aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in the shooting death of nine-year-old Khylie Sorrells.

Houston police have arrested 22-year-old Jeremiah Jones following an extensive manhunt and are pointing to him as the triggerman in the Sorrells murder. 

According to sources, law enforcement believes Jones killed Sorrells as possible revenge over the girl’s mother breaking up with him several months prior.

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A post shared by J Prince (@jprincerespect)

J Prince, founder, and head of the legendary Houston-based record label Rap-A-Lot Records, captioned in an Instagram post, “Houston we have a problem. We can’t have clowns like this running around purposely killing our babies and be ok with it. Stand with me on preventing this sick individual from harming another baby.”

“I’m not advocating violence, but we have to protect our kids,” he continued. “I don’t care what gang he’s with. They are no match for Us. H-Town.”

Some of the comments were in agreement.

One person said, “Needs to be handled in the streets, honestly if he really is a gang member where his big homie at bc that’s a major violation.”

Another said, “There’s a special place in hell for people who hurts kids!”

Yet another stated, “Catch him she needs justice.”

J Prince is known as a man not to be messed with, so his input on this will undoubtedly carry weight with many in the city of Houston.

Doja Cat Undergoes Throat Surgery And Shares With Fans

Rapper Doja Cat loves her fans and is sharing some intimate photographs with them. 

While many would like some flicks that are a little saucy, that’s not what is going to be given. The Grammy award winner shared the process of her having throat surgery to remove an abscess.

The mass has caused the “Say So” singer a lot of pain, which will soon be gone. 

The 26-year-old tweeted out pictures of her recovery from the hospital. Donning a white and black floral gown, she snapped away from her recovery bed and showed that she was ok.

https://twitter.com/DojaCat/status/1537514109922447360?s=20&t=MipOPMjk5jnL68Rz1rgS1g

As reported by AllHipHop.com, the singer had to drop off The Weeknd’s tour because her tonsils were infected. She had restorative surgery on her throat but discovered the problem was even more profound.

The “Kiss Me More” artist explained to her fans, saying, “Hi guys, I wanted you to hear it from me first. Unfortunately, I have to have surgery on my tonsils asap. The surgery is routine but the recovery is going to take awhile due to swelling.”

“That means I have to cancel my festival run this summer as well as The Weeknd tour. I feel horrible about this but can’t wait for this to heal and get back to making music and create an experience for y’all.”

https://twitter.com/DojaCat/status/1527737897809432576?s=20&t=fMXT-N3uJxMRUsiEJPjz7Q

After the operation, she made another post, where she can be seen rapping lyrics to Trey Songz’s “Bottoms Up.” 

The artist takes a stab at Nicki Minaj’s verse despite her voice being weak from the operation.

https://twitter.com/DojaCat/status/1537544802408861696?s=20&t=5WSIZeqlJKxMTle85tEnKg

This may be the final procedure to have the abscess removed. When a fan asked her on Twitter when she was going to have the surgery, she responded, “did it already.”

https://twitter.com/DojaCat/status/1537515415122825217?s=20&t=Nz6ZxFx7cSmC9ocNJ7eFLQ

We hope you feel better.

Eminem Protegé Obie Trice Locked Up For Harassment, Contempt of Court

Detroit rapper Obie Trice has found himself behind bars thousands of miles from his hometown.

The Oakland sheriff’s office says the emcee, originally put on by Eminem, was arrested and arraigned in a 48th District Court in Bloomfield Hills and admitted into an Oakland County jail on Thursday, June 16 at 5 p.m.

According to The Detroit News, Obie Trice was charged with a harassment count where it is alleged that he used his telephone to threaten someone.

Court records show the crime is a misdemeanor punishable by a $1,000 fine, six months in jail, or both. He is also being held on a $10,000 bond.

Obie Trice is also being held for contempt of court.

The Oakland County Circuit Court issued a complaint against him after he allegedly violated a personal protection order. That case remains pending and was reassigned to a different judge in May.

This is not the first time Obie Trice has been in trouble with the law.

AllHipHop.com reported in 2020 that he was in trouble after pleading guilty to a felonious charge, where he was in possession of an unregistered gun after drunkenly shooting his girlfriend’s 18-year-old son in Commerce Township. 

Eminem has not spoken out on any of Trice’s legal problems, despite the two being close.

A few months ago, Trice spoke about their relationship in an interview, saying, “Em is cool. That’s my brother, man anything that I need, anything that I need to deal with, or any type of situation for us in the industry, I can hit Em up. That’s my bro, and he will be for life.” 

Eminem Says Rapping About His Mental Health Is Therapeutic

Eminem discussed his history of rapping about mental health during an appearance on SiriusXM’s Sway in the Morning.

The Shady Records founder reflected on his willingness to address mental health in his music while talking to Sway Calloway. Eminem championed rap as a therapeutic outlet for himself and other artists.

“I think that’s one of the great things about rap music is that, you know, you could put so much of your life in it,” he said before a pause in the conversation.

He added, “It’s therapeutic and that’s how it’s always been for me.”

Eminem also made a point to praise his artist Westside Boogie’s new album More Black Superheroes, which dropped on Friday (June 17).

“But with this album, with this new Boogie album – the title, everything is f######, everything’s great,” he told Sway. “And it’s like watching him just keep getting better and better and better is incredible too. And he’s got so much of his life weaved in this album. You know what I’m saying? Like, I think that it’s therapeutic.”

Eminem released new music this week as well, unleashing a CeeLo Green collaboration titled “The King & I” on June 16. The song will appear on the soundtrack for Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis Presley biopic.

Bali Baby Drops Highly-Anticipated New Mixtape “BALIPRINT”

Bali Baby is the definition of lit, and you can hear it in her music. Hailing from Atlanta, Georgia, Bali has been steadily building her brand and presence in the music industry, best known for her signature “MUAH!” tagline. She’s sweet, she’s charming, and she’s beautiful.. but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t come with the bars!

Exploding onto the scene with her 2016 breakout single “Designer,” Bali has been putting in the work, releasing project after project for her fans. Today, she returns with her highly-anticipated new tape titled BALIPRINT, inspired directly by the fact that rappers have been stealing her sauce from the jump.

In an exclusive quote to AllHipHop, she states, “I was out the game for about 2 years being a milf, and just started back getting in the studio around December 2021. In about 5 months, I’ve recorded over 30 songs and picked out the absolute hardest ones. I really was in my super cocky, bossy mood for these 6 months, I’ve only recorded on certain style beats! The ones that scream I’M THAT B#### & YOU’RE NOT.”

She adds, “I was also traveling around with my Playgirls on our mini-tour so I pulled inspo from all the partying and money spending that I was partaking in.”

Clocking in at 10 tracks, BALIPRINT is paired with a cover art that sees labels in a factory trying to recreate Bali Baby, when in the end she’ll never sell her soul!

Having spent 2 years out the game being a MILF (becoming a mother), Bali immediately returned back to the studio with a vengeance.

Tom Francis Teases new single with Maybach Music Artist Gunplay

New Zealand Rapper Tom Francis teases a new single in collaboration with Maybach Music signee – Gunplay. Tom posted on Instagram a video of both artists together in a Miami recording studio working on new music.

We first heard a preview of the new music via @TomFrancisSound Instagram with the defiant “Maybach Music” tag at the start of the preview. This will be the first collaboration from a New Zealand rapper to work with anyone from the Maybach Music Roster.Tom Francis has been known for working with artists like Snoop Dogg, Joyner Lucas, Royce Da 5’9, Twista, King Los, Daz Dillinger, Traffic, T.F, Demrick, Dizzy Wright and now Gunplay.

Maybach music group is the label owned, operated and founded by rapper Rick Ross with artists that have either been or are still signed under their roster such as Meek Mill, French Montana, DJ Khaled, Wale, Omarion, Stalley, Rockie Fresh, Annuel AA, Fat Trel and Triple C’s. We have been told the release of this song will be sometime very soon.

TheGabeDias : Rapper, Visionary and Trendsetter

As is often the case with many of the best rappers (and artists in general), sincere music often stems from difficult moments in our lives. Nevertheless, our experiences through life can drive our artistic efforts in a vulnerable way that echoes our creative output. It’s safe to say that genuine lyricism is what will most likely turn a listener into a fan.

One of these dreamers is TheGabeDias. He is an incredible artist who comes from Miami Florida. TheGabeDias is a rising star in the rapping world and loves creating hip hop / rap music. He has been making music since the tender age of 18. Music is his one true passion and he has refused to give up.

TheGabeDias has hit-making potential, with each hit gaining more attention. The rising star has the potential to be one of 2022’s true breakout artists, with radio-ready, impossibly catchy debut singles like “Heartless” still circulating. 

His deep commitment to music has enabled him to develop his own distinct style and contribute something fresh to the music world. He communicates a distinct hue mood and heavenly energy with each tune he releases. TheGabeDias’s music is real and one-of-a-kind in every sense, providing a tremendous experience for both himself and his listeners.

TheGabeDias states “I will always have something I am working on, and I am always aiming to be more consistent with my output, no matter what.” With this being said it is no doubt that he will be one of the next rising artists to watch. 

TheGabeDias strives to be a forward-thinking artist who never compromises his values. He’s always paid homage to his roots, and it’s one of the main reasons for his influence’s success. Fans want to connect with musicians outside of their music and TheGabeDias does an exceptional job at making sure he wears his heart on his sleeve. Labels pump out artists on a monthly basis, so creatives must pay particular attention to their songs’ structure to stay nuanced and visible in a fast-paced music market.

Even though 2022 knocked many off their feet, TheGabeDias has kept an upbeat approach from the start. This season, he honed his skills to add to his ever-growing 2022 collection. TheGabeDias is undeniably a game-changer, a surefire talent who is quickly gaining acclaim, and one thing is certain: his star power will keep on growing.

22Gz Released On Bail Following Arrest For Attempted Murder

Brooklyn drill rapper 22Gz is no longer behind bars.

According to New York City Department of Correction online records, 22Gz was released on bail on Thursday (June 16). The Atlantic Records artist was arrested for attempted murder on Sunday (June 12). His bail was set at $500,000.

Kodak Black, who signed 22Gz in 2018, celebrated his Sniper Gang member’s freedom on Instagram.

“Can’t Hold Da Snipe Back @22gzofficial,” Kodak Black wrote. “I’m Ready To See You Take The Whole New York Rap Scene Over Brother !!! Snipin & Twirlin.”

Prosecutors accused 22Gz of shooting three people in Brooklyn on March 6. A grand jury indicted him on charges of attempted murder, criminal possession of a weapon, assault and reckless endangerment.

22Gz, whose real name is Jeffrey Alexander, allegedly shot two victims in their legs. The other victim suffered a wound to the foot.

“This shooting not only wounded the victim but endangered the lives of everyone in a crowded club,” Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said. “Senseless gang rivalries fuel much of the gun violence in our communities and I remain committed to vigorously prosecuting anyone who engages in this criminal conduct.”

Police arrested 22Gz after his plane landed at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. He was scheduled to perform at Hot 97’s Summer Jam festival.

Drake Teases Another ‘Scary Hours’ Pack

Drake plans to keep supplying his fans with new music following the surprise release of his Honestly, Nevermind album.

The 35-year-old artist revealed a third Scary Hours pack on his SiriusXM show Table For One. Drake didn’t announce a release date for the project, noting that he wanted to give listeners time to digest his latest album.

“I got another Scary Hours pack coming too in a little bit,” he said. “Maybe not right now. I need you to just take this in right now. But I have a Scary Hours. I’m gonna slap some head tops off with a Scary Hours pack. I love this s###.”

Drake released the original Scary Hours in 2018. His Scary Hours 2 pack dropped in 2021.

The OVO star’s Honestly, Nevermind album got a mixed reception on social media. Drake addressed his critics in a brief Instagram clip.

“It’s all good if you don’t get it yet,” he said. “It’s all good. That’s what we do. We wait for you to catch up. We’re here though. We caught up already. On to the next. My goodness.”

Honestly, Nevermind puzzled some fans because it’s a dance album. Black Coffee, who won the 2022 Grammy for best dance/electronic album, served as one of the executive producers for Drake’s new LP.

Listen to Honestly, Nevermind below.

Big Sean Big Sean and Jhené Aiko Reportedly Expecting Their First Child 

Big Sean and Jhené Aiko may be taking their relationship to the next level and bringing a new addition into the world. The longtime partners sparked pregnancy rumors earlier this week when the R&B singer was spotted out in public, apparently with a noticeable baby bump.  

The news was then shared on social media. “I jus saw Jhene Aiko and Big Sean at Whole Foods and she’s very pregnant. [I know that’s right] Sean,” a Twitter user wrote.  

The tweet was later picked up by several blogs, igniting speculation that Big Sean and Jhené Aiko are welcoming a child.  

Furthermore, according to The Neighbourhood Talk, “This fan is not the only person to allude that Jhené is pregnant. Sources close to the couple have also confirmed that a baby is, for sure, on the way.” 

While Big Sean and Jhené Aiko have yet to comment, the rumor mill has gone into overdrive. Meanwhile, the singer’s recent Instagram posts have only fuelled further speculation. Jhené Aiko is pictured wearing very baggy clothing in her last few posts with her stomach nowhere in sight. 

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A post shared by iCON Billingsley. (@icontips)

Jhené Aiko’s Instagram Stories may also provide a further hint that she and Sean are expecting a child. “Protecting my peace & minding my business,” was one of the inspirational quotes she shared with her followers.  

If Big Sean and Jhené Aiko are expecting, their baby will be the rapper’s first child and the singer’s second. She already has 13-year-old Namiko Love Browner from a previous relationship. The pair began dating in 2016 before splitting and later reconciling in 2019. 

The “Sativa” songstress is among the performers for CNN’s Juneteenth Concert Special on June 19. She joins a star-studded setlist for Juneteenth: A Global Celebration for Freedom at Hollywood Bowl, airing live on CNN. The show will be hosted by Don Lemon and aims to highlight “African-American advocates, trailblazers and creators.” 

Who Wins A Verzuz Between Memphis Bleek And Juelz Santana?

Memphis Bleek. Juelz Santana.

A fight broke out. Memphis Bleek and Juelz Santana have been going back-and-forth on social media, in an attempt to drum up interest in the Verzuz battle.

I will be honest, and say that I don’t think anybody wants to see this. But since the back-and-forth continues, let’s talk about it. First things first, Juelz Santana was a part of the Dipset battle with The Lox and that didn’t turn out too well.

However, Juelz had to share the stage in the hits with his Harlem Homies. That was not just him. So now he wants to take on either Lloyd Banks or Memphis Bleek. They attempted to play Memphis Bleek on the weak side and move straight to Lloyd Banks. When I say, I mean him and Jim Jones. But, Memphis Bleek would have no parts of it. He lashed back! And he said bring your rhymes, not your jewels. 

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A post shared by @HipHopSince1987 (@hiphopsince1987)

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A post shared by Memphisbleek (@memphisbleek)

Now, I ask you. Who do you see winning this potential battle!?

First of all, I see Memphis Bleek as a member of a great dynasty in Hip-Hop: Rocafella Records. That means he has hits that extend way beyond his solo catalog. His solo catalog yields a number of bangerz as well. We cannot overlook some of the sleepier songs and albums that he’s done, but the quality of the music is really there. Most people regard him as Jay Z‘s little guy, but people like myself know better.

Juelz Santana is also regarded as the youngest member of Dipset. He has a solo and star quality of his own. And so therefore, he’s experienced tremendous highs as a solo act. I must say after the Dipset and D-Block battle, I don’t know for sure that this will go Juelz Santana‘s way. I could be wrong, but are already seeing Jim Jones in the mix a little too much already. To me, this doesn’t bode well for him standing on his own two feet. If it’s Juelz Santana versus Memphis Bleek, let the big Homie stand down. We know Jay-Z is not coming into this. Neither is Cam.

Verzuz has apparently put a contract and some bread on the table. So, the ball seems to be squarely on Juelz. Bleek is down. There have been a lot of jokes, but that could be just trolling to cause a social media furor. That is working.

What do you think?

Denzel Curry Addresses His Controversial Comments About Drake & Kanye West

Florida-raised recording artist Denzel Curry’s critique of recent albums by two Hip Hop heavyweights caused a stir online. Apparently, Curry was not a fan of Kanye “Ye” West’s Donda and Drake’s Certified Lover Boy.

Donda and CLB could’ve been better yall n##### rich and got the greatest musicians at your disposal,” tweeted Denzel Curry on May 14. More than 80,000 users liked that particular Twitter post.

A few minutes later, Curry shared another take about the two chart-topping studio LPs. The “Clout Cobain” performer also added, “The artwork for both projects were booty.”

Apple Music 1’s Ebro Darden caught up with Denzel Curry to discuss his contribution to the “Juneteenth 2022: Freedom Songs” collection. The streamer included Curry’s “1st Quarter” single with Reason on the playlist.

Denzel Curry Expresses Love For Ye & Drake But Doesn’t Back Down From His Opinion

The conversation between Denzel Curry and Ebro Darden also featured the 27-year-old songwriter addressing his past statements about Donda and Certified Lover Boy. He doubled down on his tweets.

“I wasn’t dissing the m############, I love them. I love Kanye,” said Denzel Curry before going on to complain about how XXL allegedly published an interview with him around the same time Kendrick Lamar released “The Heart Part 5” in May as a way to gin up controversy.

Curry then added, “I said what I said about Kanye and Drake. N####, y’all got money. Y’all are the best musicians I’ve ever heard in my m############ life. And on top of that, you did not deliver. I’m delivering and I have less resources. What the f###? Period. I love y’all. Don’t get it twisted. I’m not hating on y’all.”

Denzel Curry let loose his own fifth studio LP, Melt My Eyez See Your Future, on March 25. Robert Glasper, Saul Williams, T-Pain, 6lack, Rico Nasty, JID, and others appeared on the album. The project received critical acclaim. A deluxe “director’s cut” version of Melt My Eyez See Your Future is currently in the works.

Kid Cudi Announces Moon’s Landing Event With Pusha T, Bone Thugs & More

Scott Mescudi is the latest Hip Hop recording artist to host his own curated festival. Better known as Kid Cudi, the Cleveland-born performer is bringing Moon’s Landing to his hometown.

Kid Cudi announced Moon’s Landing via a tweet posted on June 17. The Man on the Moon: The End of Day and Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager album creator will headline the star-studded event.

In addition, the Moon’s Landing lineup features Playboi Carti, Haim, Pusha T, Don Toliver, Jaden, Dominic Fike, 070 Shake, Mike Dean, Chip Tha Ripper, Strick, and DJ E-V. Fellow Cleveland rap legends Bone Thugs-n-Harmony will be at the show as well.

Kid Cudi’s Entergalactic Animated Series Will Stream On Netflix

Moon’s Landing will take place on Saturday, September 17. Kid Cudi’s next full-length album, Entergalactic, is expected to drop around that same time. There is also a Kenya Barris-produced Entergalactic adult animated series headed to the Netflix streaming service later this year.

“First taste of Entergalactic!!! Music produced by Dot Da Genius and Plain Pat, 2022 only on NETFLIX 😈 @netflix,” wrote Kid Cudi on Instagram in September 2021. The IG post included a snippet from the forthcoming program.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CT2iX5wp6yr/?utm_source=ig_embed&ig_rid=23ac7c9a-9983-4813-a7f6-b26d413b65aa

“Do What I Want” Dropped Earlier This Month

The Entergalactic studio LP will follow Kid Cudi’s 2020’s Man on the Moon III: The Chosen. That project opened at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart with 144,000 first-week units.

Cudi earned his first career #1 song on Billboard‘s Hot 100 chart as one-half of The Scotts with Travis Scott. The Hip Hop duo reached the pinnacle of the Hot 100 with “The Scotts” single in 2020.

The new track “Do What I Want” arrived on June 10 of this year. Kid Cudi also contributed “Stars In The Sky” to the Sonic the Hedgehog 2 soundtrack. Last year, he collaborated with Jay-Z for “Guns Go Bang” off The Harder They Fall soundtrack.

Fans Accuse Joey Bada$$ Of Delaying His Album To Avoid Drake

Before Thursday, supporters of NYC-based rapper Joey Bada$$ expected his third studio album to drop on June 17. The Pro Era frontman took to Twitter to announce the project tentatively titled 2000 has been pushed back.

“Man, I got some terrible news, my album won’t be coming out tonight due to sample clearance issues 🤬,” tweeted Joey Bada$$ yesterday morning at 11:38 ET.

The 27-year-old rapper/actor added, “Right now, it’s unclear how long I’ll have to postpone it but my hope is no more than 2 weeks. I wanted to have a new date before I told you guys but it’s out of my control 😞.”

Did Drake’s Surprise Announcement Cause Joey To Change His Release Date?

Some Twitter users began to speculate if there were other reasons why Joey Bada$$ decide to hold off dropping 2000. Later in the day, Drake revealed he was releasing his Honestly, Nevermind album on Friday which ignited more theories about Joey’s delayed project.

“Nah, Joey Bada$$ lying about not having a sample cleared because he found out Drake was dropping the same night as him is way too funny 😭😭,” tweeted the @wowthatshiphop Twitter account at 6:32 pm ET.

More than 30,000 users liked King Wow’s tweet about Joey Bada$$ and Drake. It also garnered more than 2,700 retweets. Other posts questioning Joey’s reasoning saw heavy engagement on the social media as well.

Earlier This Week, Joey Bada$$ Confessed To Misinforming His Followers

The fact that Joey Bada$$ recently admitted to misleading the public in the past strengthened some of the skepticism directed at him now. On June 14, the former Wu-Tang: An American Saga cast member tweeted about using “eye damage” as an “excuse” to remove himself from a tour with Maryland-bred rapper Logic.

As far as 2000 not dropping, Joey Bada$$ promised to keep his fans informed on its progress. He tweeted, “I’ll keep you guys updated obviously, I’m almost certain I’ll have a new date by Monday. On the bright side, me and Chance’s new song drops [tomorrow].”

Meanwhile, Joey Bada$$ will be part of the performance lineup for the 2022 BET Awards on June 26. Bada$$ also began promoting his upcoming summer tour. The North American outing will begin on July 1 in Boston.

BET Awards Tap Chance The Rapper, Jack Harlow & More To Perform

The 2022 BET Awards will air live on Sunday, June 26 on the BET network at 8 pm ET/PT. Several high-profile entertainers from the world of music will be in attendance to perform at the ceremony.

Chance The Rapper, Jack Harlow, Joey Bada$$, Roddy Ricch, Latto, Lizzo, Chlöe, Muni Long, Doechii, GIVĒON, Ella Mai, Maverick City Music x Kirk Franklin, and Fireboy DML will all hit the BET Awards stage that night.

R&B icon Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds is listed as a performer as well. In addition, up-and-coming acts GoGo Morrow and OGI will grace the BET Amplified Stage inside the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

Many of the scheduled performers are coming off the release of brand new projects in recent months. For example, Kentucky’s Jack Harlow dropped Come Home the Kids Miss You in May. Los Angeles-bred rapper Roddy Ricch’s Live Life Fast arrived last December.

In other cases, some of the music stars for the BET Awards are preparing to present projects in the near future. Lizzo’s Special will make it onto DSPs on July 15. Brooklyn emcee Joey Bada$$ has been teasing that a new body of work is coming soon.

https://twitter.com/BETAwards/status/1522214650015739905?s=20&t=BpdzAw252YPaJJXvB-1efA

Doja Cat Goes Into The BET Awards With The Most Nominations

Academy Award-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson will serve as the host for the 2022 BET Awards. Plus, BET will present Hip Hop mogul/recording artist Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

“Diddy has always been a pioneering force in our community, breaking barriers, achieving unprecedented heights, blazing new trails, and, in so doing, raising the bar for all of us,” stated Scott Mills, BET CEO.

Genre-blending musician Doja Cat earned the most nominations for this year’s BET Awards. The “Kiss Me More” hitmaker scored 6 nods, including Best Female Hip Hop Artist. R&B vocalist Ari Lennox and Hip Hop superstar Drake followed Doja Cat with four nominations each.

Did Drake Respond To The Hate For ‘Honestly, Nevermind’?

Global superstar Drake dropped a new Dance surprise album on Friday morning. Going by sections of the internet, some listeners expressed disappointment in Drizzy’s Honestly, Nevermind.

Drake is currently the #1 trending topic on Twitter. Many of the tweets are critical takes about Honestly, Nevermind. Numerous commenters took issue with the project’s sound.

Apparently, the musician born Aubrey Drake Graham got wind of the criticism for Honestly, Nevermind. Video of the Canadian singer/rapper seemingly addressing the people calling his latest LP “mid” made its way to the internet.

“It’s all good if you don’t get it yet. It’s all good. That’s what we do,” said Drake. “We’re waiting for you to catch up. We’re here though. We caught up already. On to the next. My goodness.”

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As of press time, it is not clear when Drake posted the clip or where he was located at the time he filmed it. The video has started to spread on social media and on YouTube over the last two hours.

Drake’s Honestly, Nevermind follows 2021’s Certified Lover Boy. That studio LP was also met with mixed reviews. However, CLB became a huge commercial success.

Certified Lover Boy debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart with 613,000 units. The album spent five non-consecutive weeks atop the rankings. The Record Academy nominated CLB for Best Rap Album at the 2022 Grammy Awards, but Drake pulled the project from contention.

Drake Marries 23 Women In New Video Featuring Tristan Thompson As Best Man 

Drake broke the Internet on Thursday (Jun. 16) when he announced he would be releasing a new album. As if that wasn’t enough of a surprise, Drizzy only gave his fans a few hours’ warning before releasing the project. 

Honestly, Nevermind is the Canadian rapper’s seventh studio album. It follows the release of Certified Lover Boy, less than a year ago. 21 Savage is the only featured artist on the 14-song record. 

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However, Chicago Bulls center-forward and reality TV star Tristan Thompson makes an appearance in the visuals for one of the new album cuts. Just a couple of hours after surprising fans with the album, Drake dropped a video. 

Drake Does Marriage Differently

In the “Falling Back” visuals, Tristan Thompson plays best man at his friend Drizzy’s wedding. Drake confirms, “I’m ready to settle down. I’m in love,” before Tristan responds, “you only get married once.” 

However, this is no ordinary wedding as the Certified Lover Boy is betrothed to almost two dozen women. Furthermore, he ties the knot with each in an equally unorthodox fashion. Each bride approaches Drake at the altar to receive her wedding band. Along with the customary ring, the bride(s) and groom also exchange another personal token of their love – a basketball-style handshake. 

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The nearly ten-minute-long video also features another special woman in Drake’s life, his mother. “I think he’s really taking these ones seriously,” she remarks to a guest. An 80’s style tribute band delivers a rendition of “Best I Ever Had” for the reception before Drake hit the dancefloor with his new wives.  

Drake also delivers a message to Young Thug, Gunna, and the rest of the YSL collective currently fighting RICO charges from behind bars. The words “Free YSL,” appear on screen at the 1:53 mark. Check out the video and listen to Honestly, Nevermind below. 

Celebrating Artists and Preserving their Music with QR Codes

The music industry can be a tough place to enter since there are many aspiring artists worldwide, each with their own unique sound and personality. And when they do break through, they must find innovative means to promote and celebrate their artistry and preserve it as part of their legacy.

One such innovation that’s being used in the music industry is a free QR code generator online. Artists can use this advanced software to create QR codes and promote their discography.

QR Code Use-Cases For Music Artists

Here are some ideas on how artists can use QR codes for their music:

1. Generate website traffic

Artists can create a URL QR code that links to their website. After scanning the code, fans and users will land on the embedded web page. Fans can then check the website for tour schedules and official merchandise. During a concert, artists can easily post a QR code where people can find more details about their album, or a link to buying their merchandise.

2. Playlists

Music streaming platforms such as Spotify can help an artist reach more listeners and build a solid fan base. Singers and bands can make playlists of their top hits, or create playlists for various moods, which they can embed in a Spotify QR code.

3. Credits and acknowledgment

When musicians release albums, they often add printed dedications to their fans and a list of producer and co-writer acknowledgments.

Printing paper can be quite wasteful, and using them is just not sustainable in the long run. Since most releases are done digitally these days, music artists can use a PDF QR code to redirect users to a digital file containing these dedications. When a fan scans the code, their device will automatically open the PDF file.

4. Increase social media following

Social media platforms can affect a music act’s popularity and audience reach. This is also the first place where they promote their new music. A social media QR code can help them increase their followers on various social accounts. This dynamic QR code can save and display multiple social media handles on a single landing page.

5. Boost YouTube views

Reaching millions or billions of views on YouTube is a noteworthy milestone for any musical act. A YouTube QR code can help them achieve this feat. They can copy the link of their music video on YouTube, embed it in the code, and encourage fans to scan it.

Real QR Code Use-Cases For Music Artists

1. Redeemable NFTs at the BBMAs

The Pepsi Mic Drop x Billboard Music Awards “Winners’ Club” became a highlight at the 2022 BBMAs held last May 15th at the M.G.M. Grand Arena. It was a collection of limited edition NFTs that fans could redeem for free. 

As fans at home watched the live telecast of the event, QR codes flashed on their screens for each award category. The code redirected them to the Billboard ChartStars, where they could redeem the NFT. 

If you wish to create a Pepsi Mic Drop exclusive QR code for your music, a QR code generator with logo software can help. Customize the design, add your logo and call to action to it and attract more people to scan. 

2. Music preservation

Microsoft partnered with Elire Group to preserve worldwide music within glass plates that can survive wear and tear and last 10,000 years.

While the Global Music Vault considers this initiative, it has also experimented with using QR codes on long-lasting optical film that can store multitudes of data.

3. The Notorious B.I.G.’s 50th birthday event

A biggie tribute for the late rap icon took place on May 21st to celebrate his 50th birthday. The event used a QR code that routed fans to an Instagram filter that showed Biggie’s life and legacy.

4. QR codes for NFT authentication

An article by VentureBeat, Inc. explained how artists can create NFT membership tokens for their patrons. These tokens will give fans access to an artist’s exclusive content.

To prove the authenticity of these tokens, patrons can simply scan a QR code that will connect to their digital wallet apps.

QR Codes as an Effective Tool for the Music Industry

The music business has always adapted to the latest technological changes, allowing record labels and artists to experiment and ride with new trends on the market.

Since gaining a massive worldwide use two years ago, QR codes have become a top-rated tool for providing a convenient digital solution to its users. And from what it looks like, they’ll be good for the artists and music industry as a whole, too.