Troubled rapper NBA YoungBoy may have scored a small victory in his upcoming federal firearms case.
The court has agreed to suppress footage from the set of one of his music videos that shows him in possession of a gun.
The judge said the reason why she decided against allowing it is because the prosecution did not provide an “indication” that “the camera contained evidence of crimes.”
The Advocate reported that Louisiana native, whose real name is Kentrell Gaulden has been accused of illegally possessing guns in Baton Rouge in September 2020 and in Los Angeles last March.
The federal weapons case is related to his Sept. 28, 2020, arrest on Chippewa Street. The artist, his team and his entourage (a total of 15 other people outside of him) were arrested during a video shoot without permit on a vacant lot.
After a Baton Rouge federal grand jury indicted him for possession of a firearm as a felon and possession of a firearm not registered to him in a federal database last March, his legal team moved to video of two guns found on the scene of the crime.
The rapper was caught brandishing a gun and prosecutors caught him in the act on video. A gun was also found in an Acura sport utility vehicle at the scene.
In addition to having the videos suppressed, the artist’s team wants the guns not allowed as evidence either.
In addition to having the videos suppressed, the artist’s team wants the guns not allowed as evidence either.
The Chief U.S. District Judge in Baton Rouge assigned to the case is Shelly Dick.
Dick gave a split decision on Thursday, Feb. 24 regarding what video footage can be played, what will not, what guns will be admissible as evidence and explained his reasoning why.
She said that the guns found on the scene had to be used as evidence in the case but agreed to suppress footage from the cameraman’s video camera that has the artist with the weapons … because … he was shooting a video and puts in to question ownership and use.
The judge said in a 48-page ruling, “when a camera is found at the scene of a suspected possession crime, but it is unknown which of several suspects possessed the contraband, is there probable cause to search the camera for photographic evidence of who possessed the contraband?”
She continued, “In this case, the question is narrowed because the … affidavit contains nothing to indicate that the camera contained evidence of crimes.”
“The mere fact that a camera was recovered at the scene of an arrest does not generate a ‘substantial probability that evidence of a crime will be on that camera,” Dick said about the decision. “Additionally, without an allegation that the camera was in use when the alleged crimes occurred, the assertion that the camera contained evidence is purely speculative.”
She asserted that the federal prosecution needed to show probable cause to use the video.
“These facts,” she said. “Would open the door to law enforcement searches of media on a cell phone whenever a cell phone is found at the scene of an arrest solely on the basis that a cell phone was found.”
“The fact that an arrestee possessed a device capable of capturing photographs and videos at the time of his arrest cannot, in the absence of other facts, generate probable cause to search that device,” she said.
In addition to this break, after being arrested, AllHipHop.com reports that he has been placed on house arrest in Utah, a place of his choosing. And he has done well with his music. His most recent album landed at No. 1 on the Billboard charts when it was released in October. It received the honor by streaming close to 186 million times and selling about 10,000 copies.
Overall, more than thirty years are invested into his craft. So, longevity continues to smile upon Aaron Yates. In fact, he makes the Cash Kings List. Of course, Tech N9ne is the highest paid independent artist of 2021!
After all, the former Forbes editor, Zack O’Malley Greenburg, is responsible for creating the “Hip Hop Cash Kings” list. Recently, he pivots and releases the highest-paid rappers of 2021. So now, his website, Zogblog, affirms Tecca Nina’s stunning accomplishment.
Generally speaking, Hip-Hop is the United States most popular musical genre. Moreover, its demand roughly equates to the combined popularity of Country and Rock music, as reports MRC Data. All things considered, Mr. K.C., MO is putting on for his city.
Regardless, of the pandemic’s financial strain, the Everready MC proves that he understands how to generate and to sustain wealth. So, as an astute lyricist and a shrewd businessman, he is winning. Needless to say, the “previously unreported digital-only catalog deal that added eight figures,” soundly secures his entrenched standing.
Although, he embraces the Indie grind, the Strange Music boss ties with two other major label artists. Accordingly, in 2021, Birdman, Doja Cat and the platinum wordsmith each respectively earns $25 million. As can be seen, the ASIN9NE entertainer is worth his weight in lyrics.
Mr. Yates’ Accomplishment.
10. Tech N9ne — $25 million 10. Doja Cat — $25 million 10. Birdman — $25 million 9. J. Cole — $27 million 8. Eminem — $28 million 7. DJ Khaled — $35 million 6. Travis Scott — $38 million 5. Wiz Khalifa — $35 million 4. Drake — $50 million 3. Diddy — $75 million 2. Kanye West — $250 million 1. JAY-Z — $470 million
Donny’s Future.
Although, his impressive list of enduring collabs boasts everyone from Tupac Shakur to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Mr. Yates continues to strive for greatness. Check him out live in the flesh. Certainly, the Tech N9ne, ASIN9NE Tour 2022 will be epic. In addition, X-Raided, ¡Mayday! and Joey Cool will be performing.
Former Forbes Senior Editor Zack O’Malley Greenburg released his rankings of the highest-paid Hip Hop artists for 2021. The Substack contributor listed Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter ($470 million), Kanye “Ye” West ($250 million), Sean “Diddy” Combs ($75 million), and Aubrey Drake Graham ($50 million) as the leaders of the pack.
O’Malley’s Zogblognewsletter got picked up by other outlets, including the Boardroom. Drake jumped into the sports business publication’s Instagram comment section to share his reaction to the estimated financial hierarchy.
The Certified Lover Boy album creator did not write any actual words under the Boardroom Instagram post. Champagne Papi simply left a single “😂” emoji which collected more than 1,100 likes from other IG users.
Zack O’Malley Greenburg spent over ten years at Forbes before launching his Zogblog in April 2021. The author of the Jay-Z biography, Empire State of Mind, previously curated the annual “Highest-Paid Hip Hop Acts” column for the century-old business magazine.
According to Vibe, Wiz Khalifa ($45 million) made O’Malley’s Top 5 too. The rest of rap’s leading earners reportedly include Travis Scott ($38 million), DJ Khaled ($35 million), Eminem ($28 million), J. Cole ($27 million), Birdman ($25 million), Doja Cat ($25 million), and Tech N9ne ($25 million).
Zack O’Malley Greenburg’s calculations differ from numbers presented by Forbes. A February 9 article written by Lisette Voytko approximated Jay-Z’s 2021 income at $340 million not $470 million, Kanye West’s income at $235 million not $250 million, and Diddy’s income at $90 million not $75 million.
Jamaican musician Shenseea is on the verge of having a breakout year in the United States. DSPs, publications, and pundits continue to shine a light on the rising Dancehall recording artist.
For example, MTV’s Music & Talent US & International teams named Shenseea as the Global Push Artist for the month of March. That special recognition coincides with the release of her debut studio album, Alpha, on March 11.
Alpha will host the singles “Blessed” with Tyga, “Lick” with Megan Thee Stallion, and “R U That” with 21 Savage. The project also features Offset, Beenie Man, and Sean Paul.
“When I go to make a song, or try to catch a vibe on a beat… being from Jamaica I have a vision and I will not lose myself to get that vision,” Shenseea told MTV.
The Mandeville-born, Kingston-bred performer added, “I still try to infuse a bit of my Patois in my music, and it’s what makes me unique and it’s what makes my sound.” Shenseea joined Atlanta rapper, Big Latto, as an MTV Global Push Artist.
https://youtu.be/9zT4bWW37_I
“I want my fans to feel bold when they listen to ‘Lick,’ you know? Don’t shy away. If that’s what you want, let him know. If you’re not ready to let him know, just play my song, I’ll do it for you,” Shenseea stated.
Scott “Kid Cudi” Mescudi is a co-owner and Chief Creative Officer for the interactive live music app Encore. Filmmaker Ian Edelman (President) and technology entrepreneur Jonathan Gray (CEO) are also part of the Encore leadership team.
This week will see Kid Cudi perform live on Encore for the first time. Lyrical Lemonade founder/music video director Cole Bennett (Famous Dex, Lil Durk, Ski Mask the Slump God) is directing the showcase.
In February, Kid Cudi announced the viewer with the most “claps” at the event will win an all-expenses-paid trip for two to a future Cudi tour date. Plus, the top ten clappers on the Encore leaderboard will also win a Members of the Rage t-shirt.
Hey Cud Fam!! Got some tasty news for u! The person w the most claps at my show on March 7th on Encore will recieve an all expenses paid trip to one of my tour dates this year for you and a friend, and we'll also meet after the show!! Sign up now! 🥰https://t.co/EopAPk6cy6
The “Kid Cudi: Live on Encore” event will begin at 8 pm on March 7. V.C.R., Sham1016, The Late Ones, Harun, and Airplane James have upcoming live shows on the app as well.
Additionally, Encore hosts video interviews with The Cool Kids, SSGKobe, and DC The Don. The company’s stated mission is to “help more artists and creators make a living from their music by empowering them with new ways to directly monetize and engage and grow their fanbase.”
2020’s Man on the Moon III: The Chosen is Kid Cudi’s most recent studio LP. The 38-year-old rapper/actor’s catalog also includes other albums such as 2009’s Man on the Moon: The End of Day and 2010’s Man on the Moon II: The Legend of Mr. Rager.
Last night, Billboard magazine held its annual Women in Music ceremony. Normani was on hand to present Doja Cat with the Powerhouse Award.
Billboard‘s Chelsea Briggs caught up with Normani before the show, and the R&B songstress spoke about her appreciation for Doja Cat. The pink carpet moment also included Doja cordially crashing the interview.
“I’m just going to put it out there. I think you guys should do a collab together,” suggested Chelsea Briggs. Normani responded, “We’ve talked about it.” Doja Cat added, “We should.”
Both Doja Cat and Normani released successful all-female collaborations in 2021. Doja teamed up with Top Dawg Entertainment singer SZA for the Grammy-nominated “Kiss Me More.”
Normani tapped Hip Hop superstar Cardi B for a feature on “Wild Side.” That Hot 100 Top 20 hit earned wins at the UK Music Video Awards (Best R&B/Soul Video – International) and the Soul Train Music Awards (Best Dance Performance).
It appears Trippie Redd recently inked another big deal. The Ohio-raised rapper announced a new contract with 10K Projects founder Elliot Grainge.
“Just signed to @elliot for 30 million. 🤍 Now it’s time to start [dropping A Love Letter to You 5] songs,” wrote Trippie Redd on Instagram. According to the 22-year-old Midwesterner, the agreement with Grainge does not include touring, merchandise, or sponsorships.
In addition, Trippie informed his Instagram followers that he is reportedly pulling in $250,000 to $400,000 per live show. His “Trip At Knight Tour” kicked off in 2021 and continues through July in Oslo, Norway.
Elliot Grainge, son of Universal Music Group CEO/Chairman Lucian Grainge, founded 10K Projects in 2016. The record label is also home to Iann Dior, Internet Money, Lil Boom, and other acts.
When Swizz Beats and Timbaland created their Verzuz platform two years ago this month, few could predict how successful it would become.
What began as lockdown era entertainment transformed into a not-to-be-missed series that has given us some of the best moments in live hip-hop and R&B of the last two years.
Now, Verzuz creators Swizz and Timbaland have linked with Lena Waithe and Amazon to create a documentary inspired by the brand.
According to Deadline, Gifted & Black will explore the history and traditions of Black music. The film will examine the growth of Verzuz and the role music plays in uplifting and uniting the Black community, particularly in times of crisis or racial strife.
“When we first started this mission the entire world had hit rock bottom. People were going through so much and Tim and I felt we should do something to help folks escape,” Swizz Beatz explained. “The rest is history.”
“Swizz and I are excited to show the world everything that took place behind scenes during the process, while celebrating the artists that helped us build Verzuz,” said Timbaland. “Verzuz came from our love of culture and our love of music and the fact that it has become the force it is today is way beyond anything Swizz or I could’ve imagined.”
The movie is co-produced by Lena Waithe via her production company Hillman Grad Productions. “I’m grateful to Swizz and Tim for trusting us with something so historic,” she said. “Verzuz is more than just two artists going song-for-song. It’s a testament to the power of Black people. It’s the joyful celebration of legacy that we all needed.”
A release date for Gifted & Black has not yet been announced, but it will be coming to Amazon Prime Video.
Tyler, The Creator is not alone in asking the question: “What the f### is a NFT?”
While “non-fungible tokens” have been around for about a year, many are still confused by the rise of web 3.0. Despite the fact that hip-hop artists like Snoop Dogg have dived headfirst into the craze, some remain unconvinced.
Tyler, The Creator is one such skeptic. He shared his thoughts on the issue during an appearance on Converse’s 2022 All Star series. His first thought is shared by many not tech-savvy enough to understand the concept.
“What the f### is a NFT?” he asked when the conversation ventured onto the topic.
“I paint at home, I play instruments,” he said. “I have a friend who’s making me speakers by hand right now. What the f### is a NFT?” Though he understands the idea of an NFT as “like art or something,” he fails to see the value in them.
“None of the examples I’ve seen is, like, beautiful art,” Tyler explained. “It’s a f###### monkey in a Supreme hoodie.”
Elsewhere during the conversation Tyler, The Creator discussed artists who leak snippets of their songs, saying they lack confidence.
“When artists let the crowdsourcing of opinion dictate if they’re gonna put it out…how do you not like your own song enough to put it out?”
Tyler, The Creator on having confidence in your work: "When artists let the crowdsourcing of opinion dictate if they're gonna put it out…how do you not like your own song enough to put it out?" pic.twitter.com/4Spv4jjY4P
Meanwhile, Tyler, The Creator announced the latest collaboration between his Golf Wang fashion line and Converse. The Golf Wang x Converse Chuck 70 Python sneaker is due to arrive on Friday, March 4.
Kanye West explained why he threw his microphone aside mid-performance during his DONDA 2 listening experience last week.
Many assumed Ye was frustrated at the sound issues which plagued the second half of his show at Miami’s LoanDepot Park. Things got so bad during Kanye’s performance of “Jail” with Marilyn Manson and DaBaby that he tossed his mic away.
However, as Kanye West explained to a couple of fans on Wednesday (Mar. 3), he was “forced” to perform in the first place.
“It wasn’t about the sound,” Yeezy explained. “It was the fact that I was told, one thing I was told was that I had to write the word ‘performance’ on the piece. But what I was giving you guys was performance art. I did these listening sessions when I dropped my album where I put a mask on and I give you this listening session and it’s an installation.
“And they basically forced me to mix Taco Bell and KFC. They basically forced to mix tequila with cognac. So right when I did the song and I saw myself grabbing this mic and it wasn’t my original idea, I was like, ‘I’m gonna throw this mic. Why am I doing this?’”
“I’m in control of me,” Kanye added. “To have the ability to sell out a stadium, 50,000 seats in 5 days. Then to be told by a promoter ‘still grab that mic, boy.’”
Meanwhile, fans of Kanye West will have the opportunity to see him perform live this summer. The multihyphenate was announced as Friday night’s headliner at Rolling Loud Miami on July 22.
Rising star Young Fresh is South Carolina’s new musical frontrunner.
The multifaceted young phenom is taking the industry by storm with his versatility and unique style.
Inspired by some of the industry’s greats, Fresh discovered his love for music at a young age. He began his career in a group with his childhood best friend, but soon after realized the solo route was best for him.
After spending countless hours recording, Young Fresh finally released his debut mixtape,‘Road to Fame Vol 1‘.
Years later, Fresh continued to perfect his craft, and grow his fan base, leading him to collaborate with various major artists.
He is now making his return with his highly-anticipated single, “I Gotta Crush Pt. 2.” The single features Kirko Bangz and Tiffany Evans, and is currently making its rounds with over 26,000 plays to date.
The Game had our ear and now he’s got our eye. Compton, California’s spitter has released his newest song “Eazy” with Kanye West. The song is a nod to the late, great Eazy E, the founder of Ruthless Records. However, West and the bipolar bear bounce on a minimalist track that really bumps.
King of rumors, “Kanye West” actually kidnaps and beheads Pete Davidson in the animated video. This is certain to get the Internet and blogosphere speaking about the song, which is in all black and white. West made headlines when he threatened the comedian that happens to be dating his estranged wife Kim Kardashian. Now, if you look closely, I don’t think Kanye West actually appears in the video. But his representative is there.
Kanye West did post a video and offered a message to boot. ” “EVERYONE LIVED HAPPILY EVER AFTER/EXCEPT SKETE YOU KNOW WHO/JK HE’S FINE.” Whatever, man!
There are new credits to the video, but I am sure the Internet sleuthes will determine who directed it.
All mess aside, the song is dope and The Game spits hot fire:
Started in my Cutlass clutchin’ heat like it’s an open oven
Puffin’ chronic, Puff and Biggie out the window, speaker subbin’
Run into the Crips, it ain’t no discussion
Bullet wounds drenched in Hennessy and teaspoons of Robitussin
Head up faze, got a few concussion, yeah
Compton’s amazed, Dr. Dre percussion
God, please grant my n#### eternal life, we need the beats
Aftermath wherе you fall asleep, you do not eat
And my belly is full, gorilla ridin’ the bull
Banana clips in thе pool, swan dive in Clase Azul
The opps, I’m on they ass, grandmama whoopings in school
This Wilmington and Brazil where n##### die in they jewels
Too many Problems, too many YGs
So many ties to dollar signs, easy to end up on E
I got shot up like Columbine, the Crips descended on me
Sign my name on the dotted line, that was vengeance on beats
Saweetie won 2022’s Game Changer award at the Billboard Women in Music Awards on Wednesday night (Mar. 2).
“My frequency of gratitude is definitely vibrating at an all-time high right now,” Saweetie revealed as she accepted the award. She dedicated her win to “all of the game changers,” the brave ones, the fighters, and the “disruptive innovators who bet on themselves when no one else would.” She concluded, “They can doubt us but one thing they can’t do is ignore us. I would rather keep changing the weather than report it.”
Saweetie Says Pretty B–ch Music Will Arrive Before Summer
Saweetie fans are eager for her to deliver her long-awaited debut studio album Pretty B–ch Music. “I’ve put my foot down. I’m going to finally lock in to record this album,” she told Billboard earlier this week. She promised that it’s coming “definitely before the summer.”
When a fan on Twitter complained about the wait, Saweetie responded, “u want soul food or fast food 🧐”
However, fans will be given a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the album as Saweetie revealed she has been filming the process and plans to release a documentary.
“My goal is to be omnipresent,” she says. “When I collaborate with these brands, it’s strategic. It’s to be ubiquitous. It’s to make sure that my name, my music and my message is known globally.”
She continued: “I want Icy to be so successful that when I’m long gone, my great-great-grandchildren are running it. It’ll be generational wealth,” she says. “I want Icy to supersede Saweetie.”
Mary J. Blige has partnered with Lifetime to turn her hit single “Real Love” into a movie.
Lifetime plans to release a made-for-TV film titled Real Love, which is inspired by Mary J. Blige’s song of the same name. The Queen of Hip Hop Soul will be one of the movie’s executive producers.
“I wrote ‘Real Love’ based on my real life experiences and my fans connected to it in a deeply personal way.” Mary J. Blige said in a press release. “It’s exciting to now use this song and my music to create a new story by way of film, continuing to build on a pillar of the foundation of my production company, Blue Butterfly. My passions for acting and music now include developing diverse stories with music as the backdrop. I am grateful to Lifetime for their partnership in the story of Real Love.”
Lifetime’s EVP of scripted content Tanya Lopez added, “Mary is one of those phenomenal talents that can do it all, and we are so thrilled to be able to partner with her again on this new opportunity to bring her music to life in the form of a movie that we know audiences will love.”
The film version of Real Love is described as “coming-of-age romantic drama.” Sony Pictures Television will be the movie’s distributor.
Mary J. Blige released her song “Real Love” in 1992. The track was certified gold that same year and became her first Top 10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100.
Gen Z Hip-Hop is an American hip hop and entertainment website, it was founded in 2021. Generation Z (or Gen Z for short), colloquially also known as zoomers, is the demographic cohort succeeding Millennials and preceding Generation Alpha. Researchers and popular media use the mid-to-late 1990s as starting birth years and the early 2010s as ending birth years. Most members of Generation Z are children of Generation X.
Gen Z Hip-Hop plans to continue to allow new age music in 2022 and still promote many different generations of music. We all know the difference between the early 90s and mumble rap. Gen Z Hip-Hop is a worldwide blog; that covers mainstream media, indie music reviews, interviews with upcoming artists, and all other content. Generation Z Hip-Hop or short for Gen Z Hip-Hop;”The Next Generation Of Hip-Hop In The Digital Age!
Coming from Yorba Linda, California, high charting artist, The Band Sebastian, is a huge musical powerhouse. By studying music since the age of four, studying at Kathleen Bradley, composing classical piano works, and being signed to Amada Records, The Band Sebastian has quite a long track record with his music.
The Band Sebastian is an ever-growing artist that has been met with huge honors for his work in music. As he was recognized for an album, he had made with his son, reaching #9 on the Classical Crossover Album Billboard Charts. A self-producing, self-writing artist, The Band Sebastian carries many talents and continues to inspire. As a great artist, father, and inspiration, The Band Sebastian continues to create amazing work.
Currently, we’re waiting on his next big releases under the name “True Love”. A dance track with Latin soul intricacies. Being romantic, upbeat, and groovy, we can’t wait to get our hands on The Band Sebastian’s new music. When it comes to previous releases, the work speaks for itself. The Band Sebastian’s releases reach many as he holds hundreds of thousands of streams on his Spotify artist page. The Band Sebastian holds a beautiful sound throughout all of his releases, with huge notes of inspiration from revolving cultures, The Band Sebastian is incredibly versatile and is certainly worth the listen. With lots more in the works and even more to come, The Band Sebastian is a renowned artist that is forever growing and doing what he does best, making amazing music.
Be sure to keep up with The Band Sebastian on his official Instagram page here, as well as listen to his most recent releases on his Spotify artist page here. You can also keep up with all current works from The Band Sebastian on his official website, here.
Yung Craka, an upcoming Irish rapper with a unique background and creative prowess made his debut in the industry at the age of 21. Becoming a recording artist was a dream come true for a young man living in the countryside with nothing but views and hopes. One day all of that changed as he embarked on his journey to becoming that which was thought to be impossible.
Growing up with musical influence from Joji and Kanye West, Yung Craka created his own lane in the industry which would ultimately land him the amazing opportunity to work with the renowned Shotgun Willy. After making strides to network with established artists to get more leverage in the game, Yung Craka reached out to Shotgun Willy and sent a song he was ready to release.
After hearing Yung Craka’s masterpiece, Willy decided to direct Yung Craka to delete the verses and offered to jump on the record himself. Skyrocketing the TikTok charts, their newly founded creation, “Oreo” climbed the charts bringing in massive exposure solidifying Yung Craka’s position in the industry.
With much success, Yung Craka continues dropping songs that were looked upon as gems including his hit single, “Buy U” released in 2019. Yung Craka is developing new songs as we speak gearing up for another major release in the near future.
To stay up to date with Yung Craka and his latest projects, please follow him on Instagram via
J. Cole has recruited multiple Hip Hop stars for the return of his Dreamville Festival.
The chart-topping rapper announced the lineup for the 2022 Dreamville Festival on Wednesday (March 2). J. Cole and Lil Baby headline the two-day event, which will take place at Dorothea Dix Park in Raleigh, North Carolina on April 2-3.
“Went crazy on the lineup,” J. Cole wrote on Twitter. “Dreamville Fest 2 days this year. April 2nd and 3rd. See you in NC.”
The upcoming festival will feature the entire Dreamville Records roster, Ja Rule, Ashanti, Rico Nasty, Wale, T-Pain and more. Lil Baby is scheduled to headline the first day of the event while J. Cole will close out the festival.
J. Cole has also enlisted DJ Drama for a special Gangsta Grillz set. Lil Wayne, Jeezy and T.I. have been booked to perform alongside Drama.
The 2022 Dreamville Festival will be the first edition of the event since 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic forced J. Cole to cancel the festivities in 2020.
Check out the entire lineup for the 2022 Dreamville Festival below.
SATURDAY, APRIL 2
Blxst
EarthGang
Fivio Foreign
Ja Rule & Ashanti
J.I.D
Kehlani
Lil Baby
Lute
Mereba
Mikhala Jené
Morray
WizKid
SUNDAY, APRIL 3
Ari Lennox
Bas
Bia
Cozz
DJ Drama’s Gangsta Grillz Featuring Lil Wayne, Jeezy & T.I.
Raiche is the definition of a music-lover, someone who spends her waking hours in the studio perfecting her craft. Wearing her heart on her sleeve with each release, the Pittsfield, Massachusetts native creates her own version of modern-day R&B, reeling in soulful influences with her smooth, sultry vocals that demand confidence and positivity. Her love for instrumentation makes her ballads anthemic, and that’s the kind of energy we are on all 2022.
After moving to Boston at age 19 and meeting DJ Knock Out, she eventually caught the attention of Prince Charlez and Chris Jones who signed Raiche to their Island Prolific label in partnership with GDE and Atlantic Records. Since then, she’s only grown, discovering not only herself but what she wants to accomplish in the music industry.
Most recently, Raiche unveiled her “Complicated (Remastered)” single, redoing the original from 4 years ago. This arrives on the heels of her previous single “Burn Your Clothes,” a smooth-sailing track that embodies the struggle of love and going back and forth with your lover. Both songs hold fans over until the release of Raiche’s forthcoming album LOVELAND, slated to be released sometime this year.
AllHipHop: How are you liking LA?
Raiche: I love LA. I actually used to hate LA, I didn’t understand it. I want to move here. When things open up and when the right time is for me, I’m really a go with the flow type of girl. Not trying to rush or stress things if it’s not meant to be. Things are opening up over here, I was just working with a bunch of great producers. Literally so good, out of here. Out of this freaking world. I guess I never really truly understood it because I’m new to the business. But lately, I was just working with The Stereotypes yesterday. Insane! Also Sebastian Kole, he’s a writer. He wrote Alessia Cara’s “Here.” So sweet.. He’s the realist person I’ve ever met.
AllHipHop: What does it mean to be working with such big producers?
Raiche: I literally came home last night and was like [gasps]. I’m really always so go go go, I don’t normally stop and understand how dope that really is.
AllHipHop: Did you learn anything from that session?
Raiche: I’m learning in general as I’m creating. Sebastian’s main advice is to be as expressive as possible in your writing. Now that I’ve grown older, I understand more things. You have to say exactly how you’re feeling, tell exactly what you’re going through and don’t leave anything out.
AllHipHop: What inspires you the most when you’re in the studio?
Raiche: My relationships. Sebastian pointed out a whole new perspective. I told him about the situationship I’m in and he made me see it from a different perspective. I’ve been digging to figure It out, he’s like “oh it’s this.” I’m like oh s###, it is that! It made me step back and get a better grip on my love life.
AllHipHop: Do the guys you date know they’re songs about them?
Raiche: They have to. That’s one thing I think about. [laughs] How can I not write about my life. I wouldn’t know what else to say. I like my music to be relatable for others while making them feel in control of themselves.
AllHipHop: You recently dropped “Complicated (Remastered),” what made you redo this record?
Raiche: I wanted it to feel younger. There were big breaks in between and before the verses. It was just very long. People just want to consume it quickly. We changed the beat and I re-cut the vocals. It feels a lot fresher and fun.
AllHipHop: When did you put out the original one?
Raiche: Like 4 years ago on my debut EP DRIVE.
AllHipHop: What was Raiche like then?
Raiche: Young, she didn’t know herself. She was trying. A young state of mind where I was easily swayed and controlled.
AllHipHop: How was it doing the in-studio performance?
Raiche: It was fun! I love performing. I’ve grown so much.
AllHipHop: I saw your post saying “Shout out to ya if you chose peace instead of running back to your ex on Valentine’s Day.” Is that what the song did for you?
Raiche: Yes, exactly. I used to be like that. Just one little text and I’d be there. It took me 6 years. The guy that this song’s about, it was forever ago. I’m so over it now, thank God. It was awful. I realized how small-minded he was. I like to grow, I like to expand. If a man’s not doing that for themselves, it’s a turn off to me. It took a hot minute for me to get over that phase of coming back and being at their beckon call.
AllHipHop: You recently covered Ari Lennox, what did that mean? She’s so beautiful!
Raiche: She’s so beautiful and incredible. I love her originality. Ari doesn’t give a **** about anybody and I respect that. She’s so raw. I love that real gritty raw, that’s something I’m so into. I saw her perform at a Grammy party in Atlanta. It was the night that I recorded “Burn Your Clothes.” I took a little break and went over, she was there performing with a big fur coat on. Simple, she killed it. Baby Rose was there too, it was beautiful.
AllHipHop: Any updates on the B.o.B single?
Raiche: Oh dude, we just wrote another one. I need to get back to Atlanta and finish it. But definitely coming, for sure.
AllHipHop: How was the second time around?
Raiche: Good! He’s a friend. He’s so dope. We just vibe like that. We’ll create whatever, whenever.
AllHipHop: When you’re in the studio with these legends who have made their mark, do you ask for any advice?
Raiche: I ask questions all of the time. Oh my God, I picked his brain. The first time I met him, I was a little held back, reserved, respectful. Feel out the vibe. The second time, he’s always got tricks and it’s a little party vibe at his house. The vibe was more open there. I picked his brain about everything, it was really awesome. He gave me a lot of good insight.
AllHipHop: You turned 26 in January, how’d you celebrate?
Raiche: This was the saddest birthday I’ve ever had. I was breaking up with my boyfriend and I was moving that day. We lived together and I needed to get out. I finally got a spot and was ready to be out. It was awful, I was crying the whole day moving. I was packing up, it’s raining too. It was awful. [laughs] After that, [whistles]. Everything opened up. Breath of fresh air. I literally feel like an entire new person. It feels really good, I’m just trying to stay grounded. Keep on that path.
AllHipHop: What do you want fans to get from your forthcoming project, Loveland?
Raiche: A bunch. It’s really an expression of different types of love in my life.I just want people to feel.
AllHipHop: You spend the majority of your days working, what do you like to do for self-care?
Raiche: I’m a Capricorn. The main thing for Capricorns is breath work, so I’ve been really working on that. That’s grounding. I’ve been working out too. Also taking time to literally set my phone for 10 minutes, this is what I’ve been doing. Trying to clear my mind and work through whatever else I’m going through.
AllHipHop: What’re you most excited for next?
Raiche: I’m making such good music! I am so happy, I’ve grown so much. I’ve been able to grow. The right people around me have really nurtured me to grow right now, I am thriving. Just to make lots of great music. I’ve been working with some really incredible people, my mind is blown that I’m even in this position. Really trying to be grateful. Sometimes I’m very much a workaholic and will do, do, do and never see the progress of it. So taking a moment to really appreciate them, it’s very gratifying and exciting.
AllHipHop: Any advice for someone who wants to do what you do?
Raiche: Take advice, but don’t depend on other people’s advice. When I was younger, I really depended on it. It led me to be controlled in this weird bubble where I wasn’t even myself. My advice would be to just trust yourself, still listen to other people’s opinion, and get a good lawyer.
AllHipHop: Anything else you wanna let the people know?
Raiche: I want a sphynx cat, a hairless cat. Slap some fake tattoos on it, put a little coat on it. Oh my gosh. I’m just really excited. Thank you, you’re so awesome!
Jacques Laine is a highly skilled rapper from Newburgh, New York and he’s an artist you should have on your radar if you don’t already. The quickly-rising rapper and lyricist has released the first track off his highly-anticipated upcoming album — the single is called “Piano Riff.” The new tune has received impressive traction so far, leaving audiences wanting more from Laine and eagerly anticipating his album.
“Piano Riff” was produced by Just Da 1 and samples Mike Dean’s piano keys from Jay-Z’s Magna Carta album on the classic track “Somewhere In America,” (originally sampled from Jimmy Norman’s “Gangster of Love”) and presents Jacques from a vantage point reflecting on his triumphs and tribulations. Authenticity is a rare yet sought-after attribute among today’s artists, serving as the fuel that may build or ruin a career. It’s clear that authenticity comes naturally to Laine, and it plays a big part in his self-described “fresh, New York sound.”
Jacques Laine said in a recent interview that growing up in Newburgh, NY definitely played a role in the type of music he makes and his sound today.
“Content-wise, my upbringing in Newburgh plays a big role in the things I discuss in my music, whether it’s my stories or those of the people I grew up with and care about,” he says. “I have to use my gift to shed light on a lot of the things we’re going through but either don’t have a platform to use or are too uncomfortable to speak on. I’m a very blunt and straightforward person and I think that shows up in my music in a relatable way.”
“And in areas they claimed I couldn’t go, I fell in love with some ladies who said they wouldn’t leave,” he raps on the beat.
“‘Piano Riff’ being the first single has a special place in my heart and it’s really me in my full lyricist bag with no hook or anything. Just bar after bar,” he continued. “I wrote it towards the end of summer when there were a lot of things going on back home.”
While fans steadily wait for Jacques Laine’s upcoming project, “Piano Riff,” is available to stream on all platforms. Stay tapped in with him @845jacques on Instagram.
