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Drake Announces “It’s All A Blur Tour” With 21 Savage

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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Hip Hop stars Drake and 21 Savage will head out on a 29-date arena run together beginning this summer. The “It’s All A Blur Tour” kicks off in New Orleans on June 16.

Drake and 21 Savage also plan to hit Houston, Dallas, Miami, Montreal, DC, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and other cities. The rappers scheduled two dates in locales such as Atlanta, Chicago, Boston, New York, and Los Angeles. A Toronto stop will be added in the near future.

“It’s All A Blur” marks Drake’s first return to touring in North America since headlining the “Aubrey & the Three Migos Tour” in 2018. That trek reportedly grossed over  $111 million, becoming one of the most successful Hip Hop tours of all time.

Drake and 21 Savage’s “It’s All A Blur Tour” supports the Toronto/Atlanta duo’s Her Loss collaborative project. Her Loss opened at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart with 404,000 first-week units. The OVO Sound/Republic Records release features Travis Scott.

Previously, Drake put out eleven other chart-topper albums, including solo efforts like 2010’s Thank Me Later, 2011’s Take Care, 2016’s Views, and 2022’s Honestly, Nevermind. Plus, he teamed up with Future for the No. 1 collaborative mixtape What a Time to Be Alive in 2015.

21 Savage currently has three Number Ones on the Billboard 200 chart. The London-born rhymer’s I Am > I Was in 2019 and Savage Mode II with Metro Boomin in 2020 also made it to the pinnacle of the weekly album rankings.

Tickets for Drake’s “It’s All A Blur Tour” with 21 Savage will be available starting with Cash App Card and Sprite presales beginning Wednesday, March 15. General tickets go on sale beginning Friday, March 17 at 12 pm local time on drakerelated.com.

Drake & 21 Savage’s “It’s All A Blur Tour” Dates:

Fri Jun 16 – New Orleans, LA – Smoothie King Center

Mon Jun 19 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena

Wed Jun 21 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center

Sat Jun 24 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center

Wed Jun 28 – Miami, FL – Miami-Dade Arena

Sat Jul 01 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena

Sun Jul 02 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena

Wed Jul 05 – Chicago, IL – United Center

Thu Jul 06 – Chicago, IL – United Center

Sat Jul 08 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena

Tue Jul 11 – Boston, MA – TD Garden

Wed Jul 12 – Boston, MA – TD Garden

Fri Jul 14 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre

Mon Jul 17 – Brooklyn, NY – Barclays Center

Tue Jul 18 – Brooklyn, NY – Barclays Center

Tue Jul 25 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden

Wed Jul 26 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden

Fri Jul 28 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena

Mon Jul 31 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center

Sat Aug 12 – Inglewood, CA – Kia Forum

Sun Aug 13 – Inglewood, CA – Kia Forum

Fri Aug 18 – San Francisco, CA – Chase Center

Mon Aug 21 – Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena

Tue Aug 22 – Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena

Fri Aug 25 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena

Mon Aug 28 – Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena

Fri Sep 01 – Las Vegas, NV – T-Mobile Arena

D.L. Hughley Defends Chris Rock Against Critics Saying He Attacks Black Women

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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The conversation about the infamous Oscar Slap involving Chris Rock and Will Smith continues. Smith assaulted Rock on stage after the Emmy winner made fun of Jada Pinket Smith’s bald head from alopecia areata.

That incident from the 94th Academy Awards received even more attention recently following the debut of Chris Rock’s Selective Outrage comedy special on Netflix. Rock used the show to finally publicly address Will Smith hitting him in the face at the 2022 Oscar ceremony.

Some Selective Outrage viewers praised Chris Rock for responding to the Oscar Slap through stand-up comedy. Critics, such as The Root Senior Writer Candace McDuffie, took issue with the comedian referring to Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, as a b####.

“He spilled some tea but guess what: he focused strictly on a Black woman for all of his problems: Jada! He’s always focused on Black women in his comedy and his b####-laden live sketch was straight up mean and no different,” wrote McDuffie in an article titled Chris Rock Still Deserved to Be Slapped by Will Smith.

The 50 Rappers Who Changed the World author also wrote, “Antagonizing Black women has always been part of Rock’s approach to comedy and TikTok users have continuously pointed that out. Some even stated Rock had that hit coming.”

D.L. Hughley: It’s Ironic To Justify The Oscar Slap & Complain About Chris Rock’s Routine

TMZ spoke to fellow comedian D.L. Hughley about Chris Rock’s Selective Outrage and Candace McDuffie’s op-ed for The Root. The host of The D.L. Hughley Show radio program defended Rock against the backlash for his jokes.

“If you thought the slap was justified and you think the comedy was too far, I think that’s ironic,” said D.L. Hughley. “I think that it’s ironic that you think one response to a joke was violence and that’s justified.”

Hughley added, “Here’s the problem. [Rock] talked about one Black woman. There are millions of them… I don’t know how you extrapolate that to his perspective about every single Black woman. That’s kind of a non-starter for me.”

Chris Rock also caught heat for a Selective Outrage bit about the late Michael Jackson. 3T singer/MJ’s nephew, Taj Jackson, blasted Rock for comparing his uncle to convicted child pornographer R. Kelly. Michael Jackson was acquitted of child molestation charges in 2005.

Joe Budden Blames The Media, Liars & Himself For Receiving Online Hate

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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It has been a rough couple of weeks for Joe Budden. The outspoken social commentator found himself in the collective internet’s crosshairs for a few of his controversial takes.

For example, social media users dragged Joe Budden for calling out Michael B. Jordan. The Creed III actor/director made news for reminding a red-carpet correspondent that she made fun of him when they attended the same school as kids.

“You being Michael B. Jordan, today, allegedly [the] sexiest man alive, all of these blockbuster movies, during your highlight week. You’ve probably never been more visible than you are right this second. And that’s what you do to her?” Budden complained on his self-titled podcast.

The 42-year-old New Jersey native added, “And if I bring back those white girl rumors, then it’s gonna sound even crazier… Because why are you talking to our sisters like that on the red carpet when you don’t talk to white b###### like that?”

People online were quick to point out that multiple women accused Joe Budden of being abusive during their relationships. Others emphasized Budden’s dismissive treatment of Megan Thee Stallion after she named Tory Lanez as the man who shot her in 2020.

Joe Budden Recently Vilified Hip Hop Stars J. Cole & Logic

Then Joe Budden upset J. Cole fans and BTS fans by suggesting Cole’s “On the Street” collaboration with BTS member J-Hope was just “pandering.” Budden stated, “My point ain’t about whether I like it creatively or not. My point is just recognizing what it is.”

Last week, Logic became Joe Budden’s latest target. The College Park album creator’s cover of Ice Cube’s classic “It Was a Good Day” from 1993 caused Budden to go on a rant, calling on Logic to retire from making music.

Hip Hop figures such as Hot 97 radio host Peter Rosenberg and Budden’s former Slaughterhouse groupmate Kxng Crooked publicly defended Logic. Apparently, Ice Cube also co-signed the Maryland rapper privately.

Following those polarizing opinions from Joe Budden, a Twitter user asked why the “Pump It Up” hitmaker garners so much hate. Budden quote-tweeted @ayo_nick704 and offered his own thoughts on the constant negative reactions he receives.

“Internet rumors, media manipulation & lying w#####…. (& a lot of bad decisions from the one & only lol),” posted Joe Budden. As of press time, that tweet from March 12 collected 486 likes, 69 retweets, and 55 replies.

Jim Jones Hails Drake As The Greatest Rapper Of All Time 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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Jim Jones said Drake’s unparalleled hit-making record makes him the greatest rapper of all time. 

The Harlem native is the latest artist to weigh in on the debate following Billboard/Vibe‘s recent G.O.A.T. rapper list.  

“I would say he’s the greatest of all time,” Jim Jones declared of Drake during an interview with Complex. “There’s a lot of people from the beginning and people that invented hip hop, I know… the relevancy that he keeps showing year after year, hit after hit, record after record. Any song that he has put out has seemed to go multiple platinum. That’s never happened before in history.”  

 He added, “I just got to give credit where credit is due, and [I’m] not taking away from nobody else.” 

Jim Jones also recognized Hov’s “astronomical,” achievements in music. However, according to the Dipset member, Jay-Z has moved on from music, whereas Drake is thriving. 

“What [JAY-Z] has done to this game is astronomical. He’s like Michael Jordan for what he has put on and what he has done since he came in the game and where he’s at right now,” he explained. “But JAY exited music a long time ago. And that space, that void, I don’t know if it’s a void, but Drake has not exited, and he’s still going strong to this day, and it doesn’t seem like he’s stopping no time soon.” 

Check out the clip below.

Jim Jones Names Drake The G.O.A.T. Rapper

Elsewhere in the interview, Jim Jones reflected on the love Drake showed The Diplomats when he brought them on stage while performing at the iconic Apollo Theater earlier this year.  

“Drake has a lot of respect for [us] coming up listening to Dipset music,” he explained. “So, it just was a full circle [moment], you know what I mean? It was dope. He gave us our flowers that a lot of people don’t give us — that we deserve.” 

Meanwhile, Jim Jones dropped his fourth album in little over a year last week. He joined Hitmaka on Back in My Prime, which includes features from Ty Dolla $ign, Jeremiah, Stefflon Don, and more.  

Logic Says Ice Cube Has No Problem With His “It Was A Good Day” Cover

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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Plenty of people have commented on Logic’s cover of “It Was a Good Day” by Ice Cube over the past week—and a lot of the feedback was negative.

For example, Joe Budden slammed Logic for remaking the 1993 classic. The MC-turned-podcaster even used his show to demand the Maryland-bred rapper retires from the record business.

“Logic, I beg of you, I’m pleading with you. Please join me in retirement,” Budden said. “Never step near a recording device again. Throw your phone in the ocean. Be allergic to microphones. Promise your fans nothing.”

While Budden and other critics were not fans of the “It Was a Good Day” cover, the original creator of the track apparently didn’t have a problem with that version of the song. Logic addressed the backlash to his remake on TikTok.

Logic Collaborates With Hip Hop Legends

One of Logic’s followers suggested the former Def Jam Recordings artist should make an entire album of cover songs. That suggestion led to Logic responding to the online criticism for remaking Ice Cube’s biggest hit.

“It’s funny you should say that because I thought about doing that. Wouldn’t that be cool? Everybody’s all p##### off at me because I did a f###### Ice Cube cover,” Logic explained. “Meanwhile, I texted Ice Cube and he’s like, ‘Man, keep on doing you brother.’ Like, who gives a f###? Who gives a f###?”

He added, “You’re right. I should do a whole f###### album, and just do a whole album of f###### hard-ass ’90s records and call it Logic Greatest Hits, and get all them paid and publishing, and take care of all the legends and the GOATs and the greats from the ’90s. And f###### do a covers album. Who gives a f###?”

The College Park studio LP features several Hip Hop legends. RZA, Redman, and Bun B contributed to the project. Throughout his career, Logic also collaborated with Pusha T, Lil Wayne, Eminem, DJ Premier, Tech N9ne, Juicy J and several other Hip-Hop stars.

@logic

Replying to @evil.morty.420 logic greatest hits coming soon!

♬ It Was A Good Day – Ice Cube

Ruth E. Carter Makes History As First Black Woman To Win Multiple Oscars 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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Ruth E. Carter has made history as the first Black woman to win two Oscars. 

The costume designer received her first Oscar in 2019 for designing the costumes for the original Black Panther movie. At Sunday’s ceremony (Mar. 12), she scored the historic victory as costumier on the Marvel film’s sequel, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. 

“Wow, nice to see you again,” Ruth E. Carter began her acceptance speech. “Thank you to the Academy for recognizing the superhero that is a Black woman. She endures, she loves, she overcomes. She is every woman in this film. She is my mother. This past week, Mabel Carter became an ancestor. This film prepared me for this moment. Chadwick, please take care of Mom.” 

During a presser following her Oscars win, the costume designer reflected on the struggles she faced as a Black woman in the industry.  

“I pulled myself up from my bootstraps,” Carter stated before adding, “I started – single-parent household.”

She revealed, “I wanted to be a costume designer. I studied, I scraped, I dealt with adversity in the industry that sometimes didn’t look like me, and I endured.” 

Ruth E. Carter also shared her hopes that the Oscars win inspires young designers who don’t fit the standard mold to reach for the stars.  

She continued: “So I feel that this win opens the door for other young costume designers who may not think that this industry is for them. Hopefully they’ll see me and they’ll see my story and they’ll think that they can win an Oscar too.” 

The nomination was the fourth for Ruth E. Carter. Outside of her Black Panther wins, she received her first nod in 2992 for Malcolm X, then in 1997 for Steven Spielberg’s period drama Amistad. 

Rihanna Gets Standing Ovation For Moving Oscars Performance But Misses Out On Award 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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Rihanna had members of the Oscars audience and viewers at home teary-eyed with a touching rendition of her Black Panther: Wakanda Forever song, “Lift Me Up.” 

The song, co-written by Ryan Coogler, Tems, and Ludwig Göransson, is a tribute to late Black Panther star Chadwick Boseman. Rihanna dazzled in a custom-made bedazzled bra and matching pants by Maison Margiela by John Galliano as she performed the ballad, highlighting her growing baby bump.  

The simple but mesmerizing performance had the audience rising to their feet for a standing ovation. A proud A$AP Rocky stood front row and saluted the soon-to-be mother of his two children.  

However, despite wowing the audience, Rihanna lost out on the Oscar, which went to “Naatu Naatu” from the Indian drama RRR.  

The performance marked the Roc Nation artist’s second this year following a five-year absence from the live stage. Rihanna unveiled her pregnancy during her first appearance for the coveted Super Bowl Halftime Show.  

Fans are eager for the long-awaited follow-up to 2016’s Anti, but it may not come this year, although Rihanna would like it to.  

“I want it to be this year,” Rihanna admitted during her interview with British Vogue. “Like, honestly, it’d be ridiculous if it’s not this year. But I just want to have fun. I just want to make music and make videos… And I need the right background music with the visuals.” 

Meanwhile, earlier this month, Rihanna shared a sweet post poking fun at her little boy who had to stay behind for the Oscars. 

“My son when he found out his sibling is going to the Oscars and not him,” Rihanna penned in the caption. “Swipe for tb of my fat man.” 

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Swaggertown Records: A Real Indie Label or a Scam?

By: Staff Writer Updated Category: Music News
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There have been some questions and doubts raised about Swaggertown Records, a record label that has been in the music industry for several years. Some people have been wondering if it’s a real indie label or just a scam. However, the label’s CEO, Jake Strain, has come out to defend the label and clarify any misunderstandings.

One of the allegations against Swaggertown Records is that someone claiming to be affiliated with the label was selling industry contacts for just $80. This raised suspicions that the label may not be genuine. However, Strain was quick to dismiss these allegations, stating that Swaggertown Records would never sell their connections, nor would anyone else in the industry. He also pointed out that the person claiming to be from Swaggertown Records had not provided any proof of their affiliation with the label.

Swaggertown Records  Text

Strain went on to emphasize that good publicity is crucial for artists, and Swaggertown Records works hard to control the narrative and ensure that their artists are seen as legitimate and credible. He revealed that there have been several cases of people pretending to be Swaggertown Records on the internet, which is why the label has been verified on Instagram and Twitter. Strain urged people to only trust the official Swaggertown Records Instagram and Twitter accounts, which are @swaggertown and @swaggertownroad, respectively.

The label has been in the industry since 2016 and has helped many artists launch their careers. However, it’s important to note that not everyone who claims to be affiliated with the label is genuine. Strain warned against trusting anyone claiming to be from Swaggertown Records who is not officially recognized by the label.

Furthermore, Swaggertown Records has an “OG gmail” account at sw*****************@***il.com and two public phone numbers at (518) 914-9341 and (518) 935-7748, which people can use to contact the label. However, it’s crucial to note that only official contacts should be trusted.

It’s important to be aware that scammers are out there using the name “Swagger Town Records,” which is incorrect. The real indie label is called Swaggertown Records, and it’s one word. One way to spot these scammers is by noticing that their emails often have grammatical errors and sound like they were written by a bot. To avoid being scammed, never send your money to anyone who can’t provide a verified payment method such as PayPal or Venmo. Always confirm who you’re talking to, and only trust the official profiles and personnel associated with Swaggertown Records, such as CEO Jake Strain, Kyle, Scott, Tim, Vanessa, Nick, and other verified staff members.

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Lil’ C. Corleone – The Lyrical Hybrid Artist Taking the Music Industry by Storm

By: Staff Writer Updated Category: Music News
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Chris Peterson, also known as Lil’ C. Corleone, is a rising star in the music industry. Hailing from Smithfield, North Carolina, Chris has been making music for years and has recently gained a significant following. His biggest musical influences include Drake, J Cole, T Pain, and Eminem, which has influenced his style and sound.

Lil’ C’s musical style is lyrical and melodic, making him a hybrid artist who can go from traditional hip-hop to R&B and even bend genres to create unique sounds. He uses his creative process to ensure that he stays true to himself and delivers a message of confidence, accountability, and honesty about his life experience.

His latest single, “In The Bag,” is a testament to his life’s ambition to win, and he continues to inspire fans with his authentic style and individuality. Despite not having any major collaborations or features to date, C has stayed motivated and inspired by using daily affirmations and understanding that life is short.

Lil’ C. Corleone uses social media and online platforms to promote his music and engage with fans by consistently posting and interacting with as many people as he can. He maintains his authenticity and individuality by putting his own spin on things and remembering that not everyone can be him or do what he does.

Lil’ C. Corleone continues to balance his personal life with his music career, he remains focused on his long-term goal of becoming the biggest artist in the world and having platinum and diamond projects. His ultimate hope is that his listeners take away his authenticity and ability to style switch well, making him a one-of-a-kind artist in the music industry. Check out his music! 

https://music.lilccorleone.com/inthebag-2

Follow him on Instagram @lilccorleone

https://instagram.com/lilccorleone

Forget Everything You Know About Genres and Embrace the New – Welcome to the World of Zoot.

By: Staff Writer Updated Category: Music News
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Zoot is an artist who straddles the line between various styles. His music combines the edge of pop-punk with the melody of trap, finding the perfect balance between these different styles and making for a genuinely unique formula.

Persian-born artist, producer, and entrepreneur Zoot found his passion for music at a young age. With limited freedom in Iran leading him to move to the United States when he was just 13 years old, it didn’t take long before he started recording songs on his iPhone – allowing him to share unique sounds that have resonated with listeners since then. While struggling with isolation and culture shock during this transition period impacted Zoot’s mental health, too; however, through those difficulties came an understanding of how musical healing can genuinely change someone’s perspective, which is now reflected in his work today.

BASIQ, the artist’s most recent visual, is immersive and endearing from the moment you hit the play button. This collaboration with MOP Head is a perfect example of what Zoot’s music is all about.

The sound of this artist has a very recognizable flow. Zoot values the listening experience of his fan base. His music makes for a unique mood setter, offering some of the best of both worlds in terms of pop-punk and trap vibes. The artist’s music has a melodic introduction that’s instantly gripping. A few seconds later, the visual truly takes off, hitting the listener with a dreamy soundscape that’s cinematic and atmospheric.

The visual has a very diverse, cinematic power to it. His work also feels like an opportunity to experiment with different styles and genre blends. In addition to the creative freedom, the quality of the production on Zoot’s music is notable. His work is sonically pristine, reflecting exactly what the audience might expect from a world-class artist that wants to find an audience on a global stage.

Zoot is all about making uncompromising, spontaneous, and direct music. He is about increasing his artistic vision and sharing his personality with the audience.

Some artists are natural-born entertainers, but Zoot is so much more than that: he wants to create a true community with his music, reaching out to people from all walks of life with a sound that is always engaging, inspiring, and easy to relate to.

Please find out more about this artist, and take advantage of his most recent single, BASIQ, featuring MOP Head.

Mo’Nique Still Waiting For Apologies From Oprah And Tyler Perry

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Mo’Nique wants public apologies from Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry over their long-running feuds.

During an interview for The Hollywood Reporter, the actress/comedian – real name Monique Hicks – recalled how she fell out with the media moguls, as well as director Lee Daniels after she chose not to take part in a promotional tour for the 2009 drama “Precious,” for which she won numerous awards, including the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress.

Mo’Nique also criticized Oprah for allegedly inviting her whole family to appear on her talk show in 2010, even though she had only permitted the TV host to speak to her brother Gerald – who had sexually abused her as a child.

“I see the show, and I can tell that my mother is trying to make a dollar. I know my family,” she recalled. “I reached out to everybody I could to try to get to Oprah. No. Nothing. It just went dead.”

According to editors at The Hollywood Reporter, the tension between Oprah and Tyler remains unresolved, and she “still demands and expects public apologies from Winfrey and Perry”.

Representatives for the stars have not yet responded to Mo’Nique’s comments.

However, the 55-year-old has made amends with Lee after he secretly helped edit her film “The Reading,” thanks to some assistance from rap star 50 Cent.

Later, the filmmaker cast her in his new project, The Deliverance.

The upcoming horror-thriller, also starring Andra Day and Aunjanue Ellis, is set to premiere on Netflix this year.

Souls Of Mischief Provides Update On Stolen ’93 Til Infinity Tour Jacket After Exposing Thief

By: Kyle Eustice Updated Category: News
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Souls of Mischief can breath a sigh of relief. Last week, the legendary Bay Area Hip-Hop group revealed someone had swiped one of their tour jackets. The incident happened on Friday (March 10) as they were performing at The Jazz Cafe in London. Tajai, Phesto, Opio and A-Plus immediately put the thief on blast, threatening to expose the surveillance footage of him/her in the act.

Sure enough, they did but with the person’s face mostly obscured. It looks like the Instagram tactic worked, and the group got the jacket back. Souls of Mischief took to Instagram on Saturday (March 11) and shared the good news with their followers.

“Thank you @thejazzcafe for retrieving our jacket!” the caption read. “Without you this was not possible! Thank you London for another incredible night and having our back!”

Many of Souls of Mischief’s friends and peers celebrated in the comment section, including Peanut Butter Wolf, DJ Rhettmatic and Shortkut.

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A post shared by Souls of Mischief (@soulsofmischief)

Souls of Mischief can now continue their 93-date tour in honor of the 30th anniversary of their seminal album, 93 Til Infinity. The run makes a brief stop in Falmouth, U.K. on Sunday (March 12) before heading back to London on Monday (March 13). From there, the foursome heads to the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Finland, Denmark and Norway. Souls of Mischief finally returns to the states on May 27 after a few weeks off. It wraps up at the historic Red Rocks Amphitheater in Morrison, Colorado on September 17.

Usher Explains How Las Vegas Made His Creative Juices Flow

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Usher says he feels more creative when he’s based in Las Vegas.

In 2019, the “Burn” hitmaker teased his ninth studio album and hinted that it will be a sequel to his 2004 best-seller Confessions.

However, the more he worked on the record, the less interested he became in making a Confessions follow-up and he subsequently hit a creative wall.

“I can’t be who I was. I don’t want to be who I was. I want to be better than what I was,” he explained to GQ. “That might be a problem.”

Usher moved to Las Vegas in 2021 for his first residency, and he found relocating to Sin City, which he saw as a place of renewal and rebirth, helped get his creative juices flowing again.

“Las Vegas is very important because it actually speaks to my career, to be in a place where I can dream, where I can incubate ideas,” the R&B star shared. “A place where I can be creative.”

The “Yeah!” star is currently in the middle of his second Vegas residency, “My Way,” at the Park MGM resort and is working with L.A. Reid, the producer behind his first four albums, on new music for the first time in almost two decades.

Reflecting on their full-circle moment, Usher said, “His system is what created that expectation for me, as a young artist. So now, damn near 25 or some odd years later, we feel inspired to go out and create more artists.”

The duo revealed in the interview that they are starting a new record label together, with Usher being its first artist on the roster.

South African Rapper Costa Titch Dies Hours After Collapsing Onstage

By: Kyle Eustice Updated Category: News
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South African rapper Costa Titch died over the weekend, just hours after collapsing onstage during a music festival. The family of the artist, whose real name is Constantinos Tsobanoglou, confirmed the news on Sunday (March 10).

“Death has tragically knocked at our door,” they wrote via Instagram. “Robbing us of our beloved son, brother and grandson Constantinos Tsobanoglou, who South Africa had come to love and idolize under the stage name Costa Titch. It is with deep pain that we find ourselves having to acknowledge his passing at this time. We are thankful for those emergency responders and all those present in his last hours.”

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A post shared by COSTA TITCH LEGACY | 🇿🇦 | (@costatitch)

Footage circulating online shows Costa Titch fall over onstage before being lifted up by someone beside him. He gets up briefly and tries to continue the performance before collapsing again.

Costa Titch was at the forefront of amapiano, a style of music characterized by deep house, log-drum driven basslines and soulful piano melodies. His rap style combined South Africa’s culture, style and indigenous languages with international rap sub-genres like trap music.

“Big Flexa” catapulted him to stardom in Africa after becoming a TikTok hit. The YouTube video featuring C’buda M, Alfa Kat, Banaba Des, Sdida and Man T has amassed more than 45 million views. The rapper had recently partnered with a music label started by Akon, who was featured featured on a remix of the track.

Just three days ago, Costa Titch shared photos of his “Spread The Love” campaign with Converse South Africa. Costa Titch’s family didn’t disclose his cause of death, but one theory suggests the rapper, who allegedly suffers from epilepsy, died from a seizure due to the strobe lights. He was 28.

https://twitter.com/billymiltons/status/1634681726034214917?s=20

Latto Slams Body-Shamers Over Her “Pointy Butt” & Talks Pressures Female Rappers Face

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Latto recently spoke out against body shaming and the pressure women face to look perfect all the time.

In an interview with Angie Martinez, Latto addressed the criticism she received on the internet regarding her body, particularly her “pointy butt.”

I had to post some footage for them like ‘oh baby, don’t forget Rolling Loud, don’t forget the birthday bash. Baby I gave the video evidence from all angles. This thing claps for real,” Latto said.

Latto’s candid remarks shed light on the tremendous pressure women face to conform to certain beauty standards, which can have a profound impact on their mental health and self-esteem.

“I’m very confident, don’t get me wrong, but at the same time, I’m very in my head a lot too,” Latto said. “So, when they be like, ‘Oh, she gained weight,’ I’d be like, damn, I need to get on a treadmill. That stuff does mess with your head. Even not even as a woman. It’s just women in general. We’re held to a standard like you gotta look like you just stepped off a magazine at all times. It’s just like, dang. It’s a lot.”

Even in the midst of her success, Latto admitted to struggling with body image issues, which is something many women can relate to.

“I know all about it. Like, I take a million pictures,” she continued. “I got good people around me that don’t let me go too hard on myself. Like, I overanalyze everything. And I know it’s because of the industry I’m in, and social media. Before I post something, I’m like, ‘Oh, I know they’re gonna say this, or I shouldn’t post that.’ I’m trying to stop doing this. But we’re human. We’re human. It’s hard.”

Latto’s experience is a reminder that women, no matter how successful or confident they may seem, are still susceptible to the negative effects of body shaming and societal beauty standards.

It’s crucial that we continue to challenge these harmful beliefs and support women in their journeys to self-love and acceptance.

NBA Youngboy, Birdman Tap Clifton Bell For “Baller Blockin’ 2”; Director Lays Out Vision

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Birdman and NBA Youngboy have announced more plans for the release of the sequel to the 2000 cult classic film “Baller Blockin’.”

The upcoming film, titled “Baller Blockin’ 2,” will once again be set in New Orleans’ Magnolia Projects and will depict the events of life in the area.

The movie’s release date has not yet been announced, but Birdman and NBA Youngboy first teased its arrival on their social media pages in October.

To ensure the success of “Baller Blockin’ 2,” Birdman and NBA Youngboy have brought on noted film and video director Clifton Bell to direct the film.

Bell is known for directing music videos for J. Cole, Rick Ross, Bobby Shmurda, Gucci Mane, and many others.

Bell’s goal is to surpass the original film’s classic status while still paying homage to the first movie.

He aims to deliver “an even grander cinematic masterpiece” that both fans of the original and new viewers will enjoy.

“Baller Blockin’ I’ has undoubtedly achieved classic status among many,” Bell said in a statement. “With ‘Baller Blockin’ 2’, I aim to deliver to fans of the original as well as fresh viewers alike, an even grander cinematic masterpiece.”

The original “Baller Blockin'” was a low-budget film that went straight-to-DVD and was released by Cash Money Records in 2000.

It starred several members of the record label, including Birdman, Lil Wayne, B.G. and Mannie Fresh, and featured a soundtrack by Cash Money’s top artists.

Despite its limited budget and production, the film developed a cult following among fans of the label and the New Orleans rap scene.

“Baller Blockin’ 2” promises to bring back the same energy and vibe that made the original film a classic.

With the addition of Clifton Bell as director and the involvement of NBA Youngboy, the sequel is poised to be even more successful than its predecessor.

Michael B. Jordan Still Feels Like An “Underdog” In Hollywood

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Michael B. Jordan still feels like an “underdog” in the film industry.

The actor is currently one of the most sought-after names in Hollywood, having starred in movies like “Black Panther” and “Creed” and recently made his directorial debut with “Creed III.”

Earlier this month, Jordan was also presented with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but during an interview for Variety, he admitted that he will never get to grips with his status.

“I still feel like an underdog,” the 36-year-old insisted. “I feel like I just got here, like I’ve just arrived, and I have the tools and the things around me to really be on the offensive a little bit. I’m not ignorant of the blessings and opportunities that I’m given. At the same time, I still feel like I have something to prove. I still feel like I want to make people proud. I want to make myself proud – so I’m constantly trying to raise the bar.”

As for trying his hand at filmmaking, Jordan noted that he was able to use the process as a “therapy session”.

Yet, he isn’t about to rush into another directing gig.

“I’m still kind of wrapping up this chapter right now, which has been a transformative experience for me – as a man, as a director, as an actor, as a son, as a brother,” he added.

Toosii Accuses Police Officer Of Pulling Gun On Him: “You Was Dead Ass Finna To Shoot Me!”

By: Kyle Eustice Updated Category: News
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Toosii had what he says could’ve been a fatal interaction with police on Saturday night (March 11). Taking to Instagram, the Capitol Records signee accused a North Carolina police officer of pulling a gun on him.

“I did not pull no gun on him,” he argued in the video below. “My gun fell on the ground…no it was not in my hand, bro, it fell out my car.”

Toosii explained he picked up the weapon and put it in the car, but when he put his hands up, he said a police officer still brandished his gun without probable cause.

“You was dead ass finna to shoot me,” he told the officer, adding, “This n-gga said, ‘gun, gun, gun’ as if someone was finna to like, what the f###?”

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CprLJuoJG5J/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading

The officer denied it was him who yelled “gun, gun, gun,” but Toosii emphatically disagreed. He accused the officers of being the only one who pulled a gun on him. Several officers join in the conversation and started arguing with Toosii.

Toosii wrote in the caption: “Mind you I live in the state of North Carolina! An OPEN CARRY STATE where I am also LICENSED TO CARRY. You would think officers are more trained for situations like this. Instead you get officer d###### who pulls his gun out on me because he‘a so in fear for his life and ready to kill an innocent man and take him away from his family!

“I’m in disbelief at how someone who could have went throhhh so much training could have honestly reacted this way… I could have senselessly lost my life tonight because some coward was too afraid and doesn’t know how to do his job [thumbs down emoji].”

The video cut off before the incident was resolved. He did ask the officers if they were going to give him a ticket for “dark tint.” And at one point, they asked his rapper name to which he replied, “Toosii.” It’s unclear if that helped or hurt his predicament.

EXCLUSIVE: Rapper OMB Bloodbath Accused Of Aiding Violent Gang In Murder

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg) Updated Category: Exclusives
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OMB Bloodbath, a rising female rapper from Houston, Texas, has been indicted on a RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) charge for her alleged involvement in aiding her gang, the 100% Third Ward, in committing a murder.

Investigators claim that OMB Bloodbath, whose real name is Alexandra Elizabeth Nicks, is a leader of the 100% Third Ward and relayed messages from an imprisoned 103 leader to 103 gang members on the Houston streets.

They allege that she also organized and directed violent crimes committed by the gang.

According to court documents, on October 16, 2017, OMB Bloodbath and others murdered Sam Johnson on behalf of the 103 gang.

Johnson was found lying in the front yard of a residence in Houston, Texas, with shell casings scattered in the nearby street. Another victim, identified as a rival gang member with the Young Scott Block (YSB), was also injured in the shooting.

Investigators obtained video footage from nearby surveillance cameras, which depicted two people, including Johnson and the injured victim, walking towards a residence when a stolen Mazda drove by and began shooting.

The victims tried to run for cover, but the shooters continued to fire from the vehicle, even as it crashed into a drainage ditch. Four men jumped out of the Mazda and ran down the street towards a motel, firing their weapons toward the residence.

Three of the shooters then physically threw a woman and her infant out of a Kia Sedona that had been idling in the street before fleeing in the car.

Following the shooting, investigators reviewed jail calls of known 103 gang members and obtained jail calls between OMB Bloodbath and a known 103 gang leader who was incarcerated in Harris County Jail.

During the recorded calls, OMB Bloodbath and the gang leader discussed drive-by shootings conducted by a rival gang and planned retaliatory attacks.

OMB Bloodbath also told the incarcerated leader about her upcoming record deal and said she would pay the “youngins” to shoot. She further discussed finding a car for the shooters and said she did not want to “just dry shoot at windows.”

“You’re going to have some good news in the morning when you turn
on channel 13,” OMB Bloodbath told the gang leader the night before Johnson was murdered.

Upon further investigation, Houston Police Department (HPD) officers obtained search warrants for the suspects’ Instagram accounts, where they discovered conversations between OMB Bloodbath and some of the shooting suspects that preceded the murder of Sam Johnson.

OMB Bloodbath, who is signed to Love Renaissance and Interscope Records, has been indicted on a RICO charge for aiding and abetting the murder of Sam Johnson and other crimes committed by the 103 gang.

The case against OMB Bloodbath is ongoing.

EXCLUSIVE: Cop Who Made Rap Song About Killing People & Setting Them On Fire Claims Retaliation & Wrongful Termination

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: Exclusives
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Hip-Hop news, crime

Controversy surrounding rap music has found its way into a legal dispute between Police Lieutenant Gregory Drew, the Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA), and William J. Sheldon, a former CMHA police officer.

Sheldon, who is African-American, has filed a lawsuit alleging that he was retaliated against and wrongfully terminated by the CMHA, and Drew, who is Caucasian, because of his rap music, specifically his song “Headshot.”

According to Sheldon’s complaint, he had complained about racial disparities in his treatment at work. Months later, he reported matters of public concern and complained of harassment and retaliation by Drew.

Sheldon claims that as a result, the CMHA, under the color of state law, retaliated against him by terminating his employment and interfering with at least two different job opportunities he sought outside the CMHA.

The CMHA, in turn, upheld Drew’s retaliatory actions.

Drew allegedly targeted Sheldon for termination because “Headshot” depicted a mock shooting of a homeless person and violence.

Sheldon’s rap music could be classified as gangster rap, with lyrics depicting violence and sexual themes. However, Sheldon claims that his rap music was created on his own time, out of uniform, and off-duty, without any reference to the CMHA or his job as a police officer.

Sheldon’s supervisor, Sergeant Smiddy, had heard some of Sheldon’s music and encouraged him in his rap music production.

Sheldon had also shown some members of the CMHA Police Department his rap videos, which were published on YouTube. Some department members had even purchased copies of Sheldon’s rap videos.

However, Drew urged Chief Andres Gonzalez to act against Sheldon because of the videos, which were Shelton’s First Amendment speech.

Supervisors in the CMHA Police Department were aware of Sheldon’s music. However, before his termination, the CMHA or Chief Gonzalez informed Sheldon that his rap music or videos might violate CMHA policy or CMHA Police Department policies.

The CMHA and Drew have known since at least 2019 of Sheldon’s rap music content. The CMHA reviewed nearly twenty rap videos produced by Sheldon but only five, including “Headshot,” were considered as justification for his termination.

Sheldon claims that his termination by the CMHA was causally connected to his speech and EEO workplace harassment complaints. Following arbitration of whether Sheldon’s discharge was justified, Sheldon was reinstated to his CMHA police officer position on September 22, 2022.

However, he alleges that his employment opportunities with other law enforcement agencies have been negatively impacted by the actions of Drew and the CMHA, specifically citing how Drew showed Sheldon’s “Headshot” video to the City of Bedford Heights, Ohio, during the hiring process, which he claims negatively impacted his employment opportunity.

The legal dispute highlights the tension between free speech and employment and the controversial nature of rap music.

While Sheldon’s rap music and videos may be offensive to some, the First Amendment protects his right to express his ideas and thoughts through his music, even if it is not in line with the values of his employer.

It remains to be seen how the lawsuit will be resolved and its impact on the intersection of free speech and employment.