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Curly J: The King of Melodies Talks “On The Moon,” Signing With A Major And More

By: Shirley Ju Updated Category: Breeding Ground
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Curly J is the self-proclaimed “King of Melodies,” per his Instagram bio.

A fresh face out of Long Island, New York, the rising star is here to take over the music industry with his undeniable talent and unforgettable lyricism, straddling the genres of rap and R&B while making it into his own.

In describing himself, Curly states he’s “a melodic rapper that utilizes a lot of melodies, but mixes in a lot of bars as well that you’d typically hear. I want to go for J Cole type bars but in a more fun, melodic way.”

Exploding onto the scene with his smash hit “Bag Different,” which organically went viral on SoundCloud summer of 2019, Curly J has since taken matters into his own hands, doing whatever it takes to perfect his craft and turn his dreams into a reality.

After dropping out of school and promising his mom that he’d be on his way to superstardom, Curly let his actions speak for themselves… inking a major label deal with Warner Records.

Fast forward to December, 2021, Curly J reveals his two-song On The Moon bundle: “Who Ride” and “Moonlight” with new videos for each. A sonic evolution in the rapid rising trajectory of New York’s emerging star.

AllHipHop: When did you discover this melodic sound of yours?

Curly J: Sheesh. To be honest, I think I was in fourth grade. This is when Justin Bieber popped off with the song “Baby.” I remember I’d be singing and humming it, some girls overheard me in class and said “Whoa, you can sing.” From then on, I always loved melodies. I listened to a bunch of stuff, from hip-hop all the way to Justin Bieber, Replay, a lot of different stuff. I always took a liking to melodies. Drake’s my favorite artist, he does it really well.

AllHipHop: What’s your favorite Drake song?

Curly J: That’s tough. It changes depending on time and whatnot, but as of right now my favorite Drake song is “Can’t Have Everything.” It’s the album that has his father on the cover (More Life). It’s underrated too because it wasn’t one of the main focus songs of the project, but that song’s hard. “Can’t Have Everything” is hard.

AllHipHop: Being from Long Island, what was a young Curly J like growing up?

Curly J: Man, I was playing a lot of basketball. Running around the hood, going to the park all the time shooting hoops. Getting into a bunch of s### I shouldn’t have been getting into with people I was running around with. It was good times, luckily I was safe. I didn’t personally have too many crazy encounters. I know a lot of people that did, but being into basketball and music helped keep me grounded and not get into too much trouble. I only had one incident with the cops once, but I was young so nothing was on my record. I was playing a lot of basketball. At first I wanted to go to the NBA, that didn’t work out. But music was another passion of mine and that did.

AllHipHop: What was the turning point in your music career?

Curly J: When I was 14 or 15, I said “you know what, I’ma really start trying to make songs.” I remember I watched a Speaker Knockerz music video, it looked like he was having so much fun. I said “I can do this, this looks fun as hell.” So I started working, my songs were ass at first. I just put them on SoundCloud, they were garbage. I was so consistent with it though, I was putting out 3 songs a day on SoundCloud. I was going crazy. When it really got serious, I was in college. I only spent one year in college. The last couple months of college, I said, “You know what, I don’t really want to do anything that college has to offer. It’s not for me. I’ma use these last few months of having my dorm,” because they don’t kick you out unless you start failing classes. That’s not until the semester is over.

I said “f### going to class. I’m not going to any classes, I’m going to stay in my dorm and work on music for the rest of the time I have.” And it worked. I just locked in, was recording anywhere from 6 to 18 hours a day. Going crazy and really working on my craft. It worked. Once I put out songs after all that time of putting in work, they started going crazy. Millions of plays on SoundCloud, a bunch of fans started coming in from all platforms. I stayed consistent with it at that point because now I had a little bit of money coming in from there. I said “Okay, I know if I could start generating something and keep at it, it’ll multiply.” And that’s exactly what happened. I started getting label attention. Freshman year of college is when I took it really serious, and it was a wrap.

AllHipHop: When did “Bag Different” go viral?

Curly J: That was literally two weeks after I dropped out of college. That’s the song that I spent two months working on. Because everyone said, “I want to make a hit record,” but I needed to make my version of a hit record. It doesn’t have to be like anyone else’s, it needs to be my version. So I did a bunch of research, I looked at hit songs from different time periods. I’m really methodical. It was 2019 so I was looking at hit songs for that year. I was looking at s### from 2012, 2005, old school. I was looking at what they all had in common. I said, “Okay, how can I make my version of that?” What came out was “Bag Different” and it went crazy.

AllHipHop: How did you get your name?

Curly J: I was just Josh with the curly hair. My name’s Josh so girls would say “Josh with the curly hair.” I said Curly J, it was simple.

AllHipHop: Why did you decide to put “Who Ride” and “Moonlight” together and drop them as a bundle?

Curly J: I’m wrapping up 2021 with the release of “On The Moon”, giving the fans an effortless vibe-setting melody with “Moonlight” and an addicting rap song with “Who Ride.” These 2 songs help continue to showcase my stubborn effort to become as well-rounded as any rapper doing it.

AllHipHop: Why are you “One of The Best”?

Curly J: Out of all of the up and coming artists right now, I think I’m one of the best. Definitely really underrated because my ability to sing and rap… I’m not sitting here comparing myself to Lil Baby and Drake just yet. But in terms of the up and coming guys, I can sing with all of them and I can rap with all of them. That’s why I see myself as one of the best, and I know that the rest of the world will see it too.

AllHipHop: What is the reality of the grind?

Curly J: It’s perseverance really. In the song, I have a part where I say, “Please, do not dap me like one of your people.” Then I said “Remember they treated me like I was see through.” When you first start on certain goals or on certain things, people don’t give you the time of day. It’s really typical for people to not really believe, especially if it sounds far-fetched. But once results start coming in and they see a little limelight or a little something, oh s###! Now they want to hang out with you. Now they want to f### with you. Now all of a sudden they believe. It’s how it goes, you gotta believe in yourself before anyone else does. I’m talking about that in a cool way.

AllHipHop: Where was the video shot?

Curly J: In LA. I was on a trip out there, met with the label and had a listening session. Listening to records, recorded. I was recording like crazy. I was doing 12-hour sessions in the studio every day when I was out there, it was dope. I practically finished a whole project when I was out there for that week, pretty dope.

AllHipHop: What were the vibes in LA compared to where you usually record at?

Curly J: The vibes were dope. I’m not gonna lie though, I don’t f### with the hills. Every time I opened the car door, that s### was scratching on the street. Hell nah! Besides that, the vibes were dope for sure. Creatively, making music, it was really, really dope.

AllHipHop: What is it that you want fans to get from your story?

Curly J: I want them to understand that it’s possible for anyone to do it really. As a kid, you see certain celebrities or entertainers, you’d look up to these people like damn. Especially when you don’t really come from much, you think it’s not a possibility for you. It’s like those people were born into that, you can’t replicate it. With hard work, I know from experience now, because at first it’s tough. You’ll be working your ass off and you don’t know if anything will ever happen from it.

Now I was able to experience it and make something happen, okay I know for sure it’s possible. Anyone can do it with the work of putting that time in. Those two months I stopped going to class was a big sacrifice. That was me betting on myself. I wasn’t even going to the cafeteria to eat anymore, I was literally eating out of the vending machine for two months. I didn’t even I didn’t even want to leave my dorm’s building. It was there, and I’m right back to working on the music. That’s what I want people to understand. Now, I understand the difference between someone who wants something and someone who really wants something.

AllHipHop: You mentioned labels calling earlier. How did you land at Warner Records?

Curly J: At first, you know you want to pop off immediately. With “Bag Different” then I dropped the record “Kappa” after that, and that went crazy as well — I thought “oh, the labels should be running in any minute.” And it didn’t quite happen like that. It took a little while, about a year after “Bag Different” dropped. I stayed consistent though. I dropped almost a record every month, they were all performing great.

It wasn’t until about 8 months after “Bag Different” when labels started to trickle in. It started off slow but then once I did more, it went crazy. I was meeting with everybody. I took a bunch of meetings. After talking with Warner then I’m also with Blueprint, I really liked what they’re about. It was a good fit for the vision that I see for my career and the vision they had as well. It was the right spot for me.

AllHipHop: How did it feel to be part of the Madden game?

Curly J: That was really really dope. I’ve been playing Madden since Madden 07. I was asking for Madden every year for Christmas, that was a part of my life. It’s not even like “Oh cool, a game I don’t play.” Nah, I f### with Madden. I play that game that I’m on. [laughs] It’s really dope. Even if I wasn’t on it, I would’ve been playing it this year anyway so it’s dope. Hopefully 2K coming next.

AllHipHop: 3 things you need in the studio at all times?

Curly J: Water, warm cookies, and good beats. That’s it.

AllHipHop: How would you describe your fashion sense?

Curly J: I like to match with my shoes. My shoes are always going to match with the fit. If I have a crazy graphic T-shirt, then I keep the pants pretty simplistic, then the shoes matching with it. Or if I have some crazy pants and the shirt’s simplistic, just basic, nice color scheme.

AllHipHop: You’re only 21, what do you like to do for fun when you’re not working?

Curly J: Besides video games I f### with streamers. I don’t really stream, but I’m friends with a lot of streamers and YouTubers. I like to travel. I f### with amusement parks. I like Six Flags. I know a lot of people are scared of big ass rides, but that s### is fun as hell. I love amusement parks. I love traveling, beaches, going out. Going out to get a drink, you know city life. I’m a city boy at heart.

AllHipHop: Who are your top artists in rotation now? Anyone you want to work with?

Curly J: I don’t listen to a lot of different artists if I’m being honest with you. I f### with pretty much all genres but going out of my way to go pull up specific artists, there’s really not that many. Drake, Lil Baby… I don’t know, it’s heavy on that right now. Some Future, that’s it. A little while back it was a bigger rotation, but right now rotation is pretty tight. I definitely shrink it when I’m in project mode, I don’t listen to as much. My routine really is a lot of Drake. Before studio sessions, I listen to a bunch of Drake, all his albums. From the very beginning all the way to present, just a lot.

It’s not even about the hit records, a lot of the sleepers on the projects. It doesn’t matter if it’s not the hit record, he put that type of game plan around that song anyway. There’s so much to learn from his records. Not even “oh I want to sound like him, but “oh, he formatted the hook here. He did this here. He put this ad-lib in the back right here like this.” It’s really really dope. Besides Drake of course, that’s everyone’s dream, guys like Lil Tjay. I’d love to work with Lil Tjay out of New York. Kid Laroi is someone I definitely want to work with. Polo G, J.I. too. Some dudes that aren’t quite as big as them, YXNG K.A out a PA is going crazy. Stunna Gambino is dope. I’m in talks with Lil Baby’s team a little bit. Lil Baby would be dope, Rylo Rodriguez over there with 4PF too.

AllHipHop: What’re you most excited for next?

Curly J: The EP I’m coming out with around late October, I can’t wait for people to hear that. It’s so good. It’s so so good. My last EP did really good with my fans, but this next one is head and shoulders above the last one. That’s really what it’s all about: growth. The fans will definitely appreciate that. The people who follow you from the whole story, they’ll say “Damn, he’s grown so much.” I’m going to make a lot of new fans off of this so for them, that’s where the journey will start with me. But for the people that have been there, they’ll be very impressed and surprised at what they hear.

AllHipHop: Anything else you want to let the people know?

Curly J: I’ma have music dropping year round. I’ma have hit records that people will be bumping anyways, so you might as well tune in now.

50 Cent Goes IN On Madonna Again Over Singer’s New Rant As #LikeAVirgin63 Challenge Takes Off

By: Mike Winslow Updated Category: News
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Madonna went at 50 Cent again, but this time the G-Unit general was not in the mood to apologize! Check out the hilarious back and forth!

50 Cent trashed Madonna again after she bashed him for making fun of her recent bedroom photo series on social media.

Yesterday (December 11th), Madonna posted a lengthy rant directed at 50 Cent, who mocked a series of risque snaps of the “Like A Virgin” singer, which showcased her writhing around in bed. 

The last photo showed her bottom and legs – clad in fishnet tights – sticking out from underneath the bed.

50 Cent posted a photoshopped image of the still mashed up with a picture from “The Wizard of Oz,” showing Madonna’s legs sticking out from underneath Dorothy’s house, which crushed The Wicked Witch of the East in the film.

The rapper already apologized once for saying Madonna’s old ass was “shot out,” but the 63-year-old called his first apology “fake” and “b#######” in a 2-minute post on her Instagram account. 

“Your apology is fake. It’s b#######, and it’s not valid,” Madonna said before offering up four reasons why his apology was “invalid.” 

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Number 1: “It’s not hard to find footage of you and me hanging out,” Madonna said while showing a clip of 50 Cent hanging out backstage with her. 

Number 2: “What you should be apologizing for is your misogynistic, sexist, ageist behavior and remarks,” Madonna snarled. 

Number 3: “You didn’t hurt my feelings because I don’t take it personally. I could never take it personally cause you’re not coming from an enlightened place,” said an angered Madonna. 

Number 4: “You say that you’re not benefiting from it. Of course, you’re benefiting from it. That is what social media is all about. You do understand that, right? We post things about ourselves, and we use Instagram and other forms of social media because we want attention. We want people to buy our products. We want people to invest in our brands. We want people to listen to our music. We want people to go to our concerts. We want people to notice us. We want people to like us. There’s nothing wrong with any of those things but don’t kid yourself if you think you have an Instagram account and you’re not benefiting from it. Shut it down. 

“Stop lying to yourself, okay? So you’re reposting somebody else’s low level of consciousness. Postings that are meant to shame and humiliate other people. That’s f##### up. You are trying to put a limit on when women should be able to feel good about themselves,” Madonna said.

Finally, Madonna accepted 50 Cent’s apology. However, the Queens, New York rapper, was at it again after Madonna’s latest post directed at him. 

Fif wasted no time posting images from the “#LikeAVirgin63” challenge, which showcases people sticking their bottoms out from under their beds.

“What a positive influence you are,” 50 Cent shot back. “LOL #likeavirgin63 challenge. 🤷🏽‍♂️ I’m sorry, SORRY DIDN’T WORK ! 😳.”

50 Cent also made a customized movie trailer, clowning Madonna even further. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CXXQsy8Jlcs/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CXYHhNvD4b9/

Man, Listen: Dr. Dre Meets Anderson .Paak In The Metaverse On New Song!

By: illseed Updated Category: Rumors
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Dr. Dre is back.

We had it in the rumors before it dropped! And we knew about it way before then! I’ll just give you a tip: we’ve heard about Dr. Dre‘s new music for months and months. It’s no surprise, or rumor even, that Dr. Dre continually creates. However, he is such a perfectionist that a lot of that music ends up in a vault for no one to hear. He has solo songs, songs with other people, and songs by other people that are just sitting and collecting digital dust. However, it seems like Dr. Dre now has a method of distribution that works for him as well as collaborations that appease his ear.

There is a new track with him and Anderson .Paak that was recently released. And, it exists in the metaverse. Well, the metaverse in this instance is a video game. Grand Theft Auto seems to be the mode of distribution for Dr. Dre in 2021. And these guys are really good! What’s going to be particularly interesting is how they infuse the music and the story within the greater video game. And also, will the songs be released in full on various digital service providers like Spotify and Tidal? Also, how will the songs be portrayed in the upcoming Super Bowl festivities in with Dr. Dre will be anchoring a performance with Snoop Dogg, Mary J Blige, Eminem, and Kendrick Lamar. Furthermore, it looks like Anderson .Paak might be involved since he’s on this featured song.

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Nevertheless, people said it couldn’t be done, it wouldn’t be done and Dr. Dre would never release new music. Well, we can all say that 

the naysayers were absolutely wrong! You can also say that your man Illseed is on point once again! 

Breaking Rumors Is What I Do!!!!

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T.I. Selling Sweet Potato Pie, Killer Mike Pushing Homemade Biscuits At New Seafood Restaurant

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News
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T.I. and Killer Mike are finally restoring the Bankhead Seafood restaurant they purchased in 2019 and announced they would open in 2020.

This week, the two rappers filed to receive a building permit to rebuild Helen Harden’s eatery, which opened in 1968.

The Run the Jewels artist made the announcement on his Instagram.

“Me and @troubleman31 working hard! Salutes @shaybigga & @krystal_dynasty for getting the deal done! Ya’ll some real leaders!
#WhyRapperHatersNeverMentionThisStuff #WestSidePride it takes a TEAM! #TeamWorkMakeADreamWork Thank @chakacooks & All The Crew from The @bankheadseafood Truck Too. Ya’ll Grunt work has not been overlooked. Ya’ll are appreciated.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CXT6A78riBM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The restaurant, one of the most notable businesses on the city’s Westside for half a century, closed its doors in 2018, causing the chart-toppers to swing into full action with their community re-investment model that they have been promoting for years.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CXULBJZg1pS/

Helen Harden shared that despite meaning so much to the community, the business did not have the resources to continue with the same level of quality that it was used to providing.

“I felt like I wasn’t doing my customers a good service when they wait a little longer than they used to have,” Ms. Harden shared with 11 Alive.

It makes sense that customer service and quality were at the front of her mind, especially considering that Bankhead Seafood was the longest-running business in Bankhead and the witness of generations of Atlantans.

“They brought the children here, and they’re eating here,” she said. “That’s grandchildren, children, and parents. So, I must be doing something right.”

One of those families was Killer Mike.

“It’s been a part of my life as long as I’ve been on earth,” the “Reagan” artist said. “If you’re writing a show or a book about Michael Render and his family, (Bankhead Seafood) would definitely be one of the characters.”

According to WSB-TV 2, the childhood friends did not only obtain the building when they acquired the property. They also became the owners of the name, trademark, and the restaurant’s classic recipes (fried fish, hush puppies, etc.).

https://www.instagram.com/p/B7XdjnhnucJ/

The pair have plans to add some things to the menu like grilled and steamed options aimed to offer healthy plates to the dinners. Mike’s aunt and grandmother’s biscuit recipes will be a new side and T.I.’s sweet potato pie will be a plus to their already scrumptious dessert menu.

The Atlanta Business Chronicle reports that the building permit was filed on December 7th with the City of Atlanta.

Originally, they two had hoped to start the structural rehaul in January of 2020.

As reported by AllHipHop.com, Killer Mike took to social media to announce the move on January 15th, “Proud to bring back an Atlanta Landmark with my brother.”

The coronavirus global pandemic halted those plans. Now that the world is moving with more freedom, their plans are back in action.

Mercedes-Benz Unveils An Electric Maybach Designed By Virgil Abloh

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Mercedes-Benz has unveiled an electric concept version of their Mercedes-Maybach luxury vehicle designed in collaboration with Virgil Abloh, following the fashion icon’s death on November 28th.

After consulting with his family, the car brand revealed Project MAYBACH by paying tribute to Abloh by exhibiting the car at the Rubell Museum in Miami, Florida.

The Mercedes-Maybach show car exemplifies the possibilities of future design and is the result of an on-going cooperation with the polymath artist, architect, creative director, fashion designer and philanthropist; driven by a shared passion to enrich the conversation around luxury design.

A statement from the firm reads: “Now opening the world of our collaboration, and Virgil’s unique vision, to the public we want to respectfully celebrate the work of a truly unique design talent, who created endless possibilities for collaboration through his unbridled imagination and inspired all that knew his work.”

The design is unlike anything that has been developed by Mercedes-Benz, with every element of Project MAYBACH has been built from scratch.

Abloh, collaboratively with Gorden Wagener, has interpreted Mercedes-Maybach’s luxury identity with a new design language and pushed the boundaries of function, style, and collaborative creativity.

The 2-seater, battery-electric off-road coupé combines huge Gran Turismo proportions, large off-road wheels, and distinctive attachments.

Under the transparent surface of the show car’s front hood, for instance, solar cells increase the imagined range of the Project MAYBACH – despite the car being almost six meters long and being designed for outdoor adventure.

Bella Blaq Tells All With Her New Single “IDK”

By: Staff Writer Updated Category: Music
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https://open.spotify.com/track/1B4ZOh4cRomkuJusiow5sv?autoplay=true

Up and coming Hip-Hop artist Bella Blaq released her fire new single “IDK”. Packed to the max with a heavy brass sample and dominant 808s, “IDK” is the perfect tune to wake up listeners and turn the volume up. Accompanied by Bellas unique and captivating flow, “IDK” brings forth energy like no other.

Throughout this record maintains your attention from start to finish. Containing themes separating from things that hold you down to live with the choices you make, “IDK” encapsulates the idea of moving forward and not looking back. Reflecting on personal experience, the song follows Bella’s rise to popularity and fake friends she has been exposed to during that rise.  The song really speaks to how true relationships should be regardless of fame. 

Bella Blaq, an American Rapper is one the most talented and endeared rap artists coming out of Atlanta. Born as Shekira Snipes in Blakely GA, she quickly recognized her talent with words and performance.  Since basing her operations out of Atlanta she has achieved the impossible in her music career. For Bella, her family, her music, and her fans are what drive her daily.  Her passion and focus led her to work with multi-platinum producer Epikh Pro (Bryson Tiller-Dont, Pardison Fontaine & Cardi B-Backin It up) who is her main goto producer.

Her popularity rose to new heights as her previous release “Booty” went viral on TikTok. During which time she quickly amassed over 1.3 million followers eventually causing “Booty ” to stream over 250 million times on TikTok. This rise allowed her to gain partnership deals with several major companies and magazines.

Some of the companies she’s partnered with are Hallmark, Triller, TikTok, Popeyes, Amazon, Kopri Beauty, and more. Some of the magazines she’s appeared in are The Hype Magazine, ThisIs50, All Hip Hop, and BillBoard Hip Hop to name a few. She recently landed one of the lead roles in the highly dramatic film “Sin” to be released in 2022.

Bella Blaq perfectly embraces her black and beautiful pin-up girl style. With a bubbling career on the rise, and with focus and motivation driving her daily, it’s apparent that Bella Blaq is this industry’s wake-up call to the next big wave in the music game. 

Bella Blaq’s “IDK” single is now available on all digital music streaming platforms through TGMG. To stay up to date with Bella Blaq, follow her on all her socials

Twitter: @thebellablaq 

Instagram: @TheBellaBlaq

Tiktok: @BellaBlaq

Website: www.lotogang.com

BlocBoy JB Posts About Suicide, Depression, And Wanting To Die

By: illseed Updated Category: Rumors
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Prayers! Prayers! Prayers!

So many young people in Hip-Hop are in pain. Rappers are no longer super heroes and larger-than-life. They are human af. They are getting shot, overdosing, and suffering from mental health issues. Well, it seems like BlocBoy JB is the latest victim of the scourge of the community. He said he wants to die and go home to Jesus! Drake, help this man! That is how I knew who he was.

All of that is pointless now. BlocBoy JB said numerous things that got people worried about his health. He said, “[I] Wake Up Wanting To Live Go To Sleep Wanting To Die. Goin Thru Depression Is Alot.” He followed with that saying, “Jesus Please Take Da Wheel I’m Ready.”

Sources nearby said that BlocBoy is in a better space today, but I hope he goes on and gets help. Depression can slap you upside the head at any time!

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Jussie Smollett Plans Appeal Of Conviction Because He Is “100%” Innocent Of Staging Hate Crime

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Jussie Smollett’s defense attorney Nenye Uche has vowed to appeal the disgraced actor’s conviction.

On Thursday (December 9th), Jussie Smollett was found guilty of staging a hate crime against himself.

After deliberating for around nine hours, the jury found the former “Empire” star guilty on five felony disorderly conduct charges for staging the racist and homophobic attack on himself in Chicago in January 2019 and filing a false police report.

Uche is confident Jussie will be “cleared of all accusations on all charges” because he is “100% innocent.”

A post-trial hearing is set for January 27th, while Cook County Judge James Linn said he would schedule sentencing at a later date.

The 39-year-old was acquitted on a sixth count, relating to allegations that he lied to a detective in mid-February, weeks after the attack.

Throughout the trial, the prosecution accused Smollett of paying brothers Abimbola ‘Abel’ and Olabinjo ‘Ola’ Osundairo to orchestrate the attack, with each testifying that they were paid to ambush the actor.

The pair also alleged that at a dress rehearsal beforehand, the actor instructed them to use homophobic and racist slurs.

The prosecution argued that the motivation behind the attack related to the “Empire” production team not handling hate mail he received the way he would have liked.

When he took to the witness stand, he testified that the attack was genuine and that he had paid the brothers to help him with workout and nutrition advice ahead of a planned vacation.

Smollett was initially charged in March 2019 with 16 counts of disorderly conduct, which were later dropped before being revived by special prosecutor Dan Webb.

Each charge carries a maximum sentence of three years in prison, but experts predict Smollett will be given probation and community service instead of time behind bars.

London KOTC is the Juggernaut of Drill

By: Brxton Lee Updated Category: Music
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It takes just one decision to change your life’s trajectory. That decision can be anything that requires you to step out of your comfort zone to accomplish your goals. For example, artist London KOTC is one such musician who decided to step out of his comfort zone and share his music with the world. Little did he know his songs would be appreciated and garner international recognition from drill fan lovers worldwide. He owes all the success to hard work, close friends and family, and collaborators who have been his encouragement and support since day one.

Nowadays, it’s rare to rub shoulders with artists who bring worthy content to the table; talents like London KOTC have an intrinsic ability to bring people together by purposely intermingling themes of introspection in his lyrics that many can call home.  LONDON KOTC keeps fans entertained by his creative song-writing approach and aggressive cadence; it’s indisputable that his music reflects his life story and where he is on his journey. Musicians who find ways of engaging their fanbase beyond the music to add more social proof to their brand and foster more possibilities of long-term fan support.

London KOTC has worked meticulously on his craft to make his dream a reality, combining stunning visuals with uptempo vibes; he’s creating music in an untapped realm and bending the genres to fit the sound he has perfected.  London KOTC is committed to bringing his unique approach to the drill world, reminding listeners that there is no limit to coloring out of the lines and infusing one’s personality into the music.  He knows this mantle of responsibility, and he’s no stranger to the nuances of well-executed craftsmanship. While wearing many hats, it’s evident that he’s achieved much more than most artists in the game.

The Black Panther Is Reportedly Rebooting Totally, New Black Panther And All!

By: illseed Updated Category: Rumors
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The latest word on the street is that the Black Panther franchise is looking for a total reboot. With the tragic loss of Chadwick Boseman, the franchise was already in jeopardy before it started the sequel. “Wakanda Forever,” they are calling it. And then, after shooting about 70% of the sequel, actress Letitia Wright decides she doesn’t want to have anything to do with vaccination in our COVID-19 world. Well, whatever lengths she went, it went so far as for her to be reportedly removed from the movie altogether! WHAT! She’s self-deported by going back to London and then could not get back into the country due to her vaxxx statzzz.

On top of that, they say she has been highly problematic throughout the whole ordeal. Now giant freakin robot is saying that she is completely OUT. Mind you, she left the country because of an injury on the set. Now they are saying the injury on the set was not just a simple injury but something that has created major complications in her health. Not sure I believe, but let’s play along. And for this reason, they said that production would be on hold until 2022. However her not returning to the entire billion-dollar franchise, because she does not want to get vaccinated. Period. Letitia Wright is not talking at the moment so we cannot fully confirm this information, but it seems that that is factually based upon sources with giant freakin robot.

This seems to be a total self-destruction move. Shortsighted is what I would call it. At any rate, her role as Shuri in the movie was not meant to be a leading character anyway. So my sources are telling me that she is also exiting, which means we now have to wait for the franchise to completely reboot. I am hearing that they are going to now re-cast the Black Panther using Winston Duke aka M’Baku as the NEW lead.

One thing I will say about Letitia Wright is that she is a principled individual. And that supersedes money and power. I do think it may mark the end of her career in this super, megastar manner. I hope I am wrong! But the Marvel Universe is vast and impactful. Just ask Morton Downey Jr…I mean Robert Downey Jr.!

By the way, we’ll always love Chadwick! Long live T’challa, the King of Wakanda and the Black Panther. We will never forget you. Rest in peace.

Rod Wave Alarms Fans With Suicidal New Song

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News
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Florida rapper Rod Wave shook the internet after posting a song about suicide and deactivating his social media.

The song was titled “Nirvana.” The title alone is alarming as it references the 90s Silverlake grunge rock group responsible for the song, “Smells Like Teen Smith” and whose lead singer Kurt Cobain died by suicide on April 5th, 1994.

Though the artist has deleted the song, it has survived on YouTube after fans screen recorded it before he deactivated his presence on social media.

Lyrics in the song read like a farewell note to fans:

“If you hearing this it’s too late/ I been writing this since Tuesday/ Today’s Friday that means it’s dooms day/ Tried to fight the pain it ate me alive/ Sade to say I lost the battle, against my mind.”

“You should be happy for me no more suffering/ We all got a day. I guess we see each other then/ I hope that heaven’s real and someday we can reunite/ And don’t be crying for me, I lived a wonderful life.”

The artist posted the song on Friday, December 10th, eerily striking a nerve with concerned fans.

“Told the world how I was feeling/ my worst decision since this fame and all these millions/ they treat my different, tired of fake smiles and broken hearts it’s f### the world/ f### the money, and the cars, the jewelry, and the girls.”

The hardest portion of the song to listen hits at the end. He shares that his depression has been an ongoing experience since his childhood.

“I been this way for a while, lost as a child/Momma always telling me smile, she so in denial/Sick, wishing I had some help/ what the f### make a n#### go off and blast himself.”

Fans took to social media to express their concern.

“Yall Caught On To Rod Wave But Dont Ever Check On Yall Friends…”

“Prayers up for ROD WAVE.”

According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, 55% of Gen Zers, people born between 1995 and 2010, report that their mental health is less than very good. Things that add to their chronic depression are “school shootings, student debt, joblessness and even politics.”

Also, the access to technology and the internet adds to it.

“Growing up in a hyper-connected world can evoke intense feelings of isolation and loneliness in some youth. It can also fuel a steady drumbeat of negative news stories, a fear of missing out, and shame in falling short of a social media-worthy standard,” the study reports.

Ironically, since Cobain’s death in 1995, there has been a rise in death by suicide — 30% between 2000 and 2016, with a peaking trend in youth deaths in 2017.

Surprisingly, death by suicide for men in 2018 was 3.7 times more than women. The stats are staggering. And what is most pointed to is that Blacks and other people of color have difficulty expressing their depression or even acknowledging it with their peers.

One fan hit it on the nose.

“Rod Wave & Yb constantly cry out for help in their songs & y’all just be bumping, ignoring the cry.

We are all hoping that he is around people that love him and give him the support he needs.

Travis Scott Loses Major Business After Anheuser-Busch Cuts Ties With The Rapper

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News
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More financial ruin is coming to the front door of Houston rapper Travis Scott in the aftermath of the AstroWorld tragedy.

Aside from the hundreds of lawsuits that have been filed, businesses are falling back from the once endorsement-heavy rap star.

TMZ is now reporting that the hard seltzer product he put out with Anheuser-Busch has been discontinued.

Anheuser-Busch released a statement on Friday (December 10th), stating the following: “After careful evaluation, we have decided to stop all production and brand development of CACTI Agave Spiked Seltzer. We believe brand fans will understand and respect this decision.”

The outlet reports that this decision was made approximately two weeks ago, on November 30th. The decision was also mutual between the artist and the brand.

A rep for Travis also denied the split with Anheuser-Busch after the rapper held a controversial image with Charlamagne tha God, where he denied responsibility for the Astroworld tragedy, which killed 10 people and injured over 300 more.

“Travis was clear in his interview that he is not focused on business right now, and his priority is helping his community and fans heal,” the rep shared. “CACTI asked AB InBev to inform their wholesalers there will not be product at this time.”

Coupling this decision is the drop in the beer company’s hard seltzer earnings. According to FOX Business, during the summer, the company shared that the overall earnings this year on this product is lower than they originally forecasted.

Chris Brown Expecting Child With Model Diamond Brown?

By: Niki Gatewood (@THE_NikiG) Updated Category: Rumors
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Chris Brown is allegedly expecting his third child. Diamond Brown is supposedly carrying Brown’s son. Previously, the stunning model has been “sexually linked to Chris Brown,” as reported by the Jasmine Brand.

To add context to these claims, the gossips rag contends, “Chris has been spotted with this model a few times by the paparazzi.” This is when the “Loyal” singer allegedly gets terribly messy. “He even was seen under her photos flirting and liking pictures the day his second baby mother ‘Ammika Harris’ announced her pregnancy back in 2019,” so says the Jasmine Brand.

Thus far, Diamond’s pregnancy is progressing well. Since September, the stunning model has been chronicling her journey. Photographic memories capture time. From the first kicks to the final trimester Diamond is radiating beauty.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CTmv0vZl1wH/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CTsRHL8vgCX/
https://www.instagram.com/p/CW8q9gSvqCk/

So far, the “Undecided” singer has fathered two children. His eldest daughter, Royalty, was born in 2014. While, back in 2019 he welcomed his son, Aeko Catori.

To date, Brown has yet to address this issue. The rumor will be settled with a paternity test. Then congratulations may be in order for both Chris and Diamond Brown!

Nick Cannon Defends Himself Over Criticism For Returning To Work After Infant’s Death

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Nick Cannon has defended his choice to go back to work so soon after his five-month-old son’s death.

The 41-year-old presenter announced his son Zen had died on Sunday following a battle with brain cancer as he opened “The Nick Cannon Show” on Tuesday.

In a monologue for an episode of the talk show earlier this week, the host thanked his fans for their outpouring of support while addressing criticism he received for going back to work instead of spending time with Zen’s mother Alyssa Scott.

“A lot of people keep asking me like, ‘Man, why are you even at work?’ Especially my family members, ‘Boy you need to go sit down somewhere, you got too many jobs already. Allow yourself to just be yourself,'” he said. “And I appreciate that, all of that advice, and I know it comes from a place of care. But to me, this isn’t work, this is love.”

He continued, “People are wondering how (Alyssa) is doing. She is making it five minutes at a time, you know what I mean? You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only option. We here. We smiling through the pain. If I wasn’t here, I’d be probably be in bed, curled up. But you guys give me a reason to get up and get out of bed each and every day.”

The former “America’s Got Talent” host previously revealed that Zen had recently been diagnosed with hydrocephalus, or a build-up of fluid in the brain, as well as a malignant tumor, and had undergone surgery, but he took a turn for the worse around Thanksgiving last month.

“Ultimately, it was cancer in the brain, and the tumour began to grow a lot faster. And so, we knew that time was…,” he said, before sharing that he held his son for “the last time” on Sunday.

PART 2: Canibus Talks LL Cool J’s Historic Shoutout, Meeting With Jay-Z, Giving Up On Hip-Hop!

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: Exclusives
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Part 1:Canibus Returns: Talks Tech, LL Cool J, New Music, Jay-Z, Battle Rap, DMX, Missteps, MF DOOM, and MORE

Few have endured what Canibus has endured, but when he says in the next life, his biggest hit never happens, you get an idea of the toll it may be taking on him. “Second Round K.O.” is a classic song in which a younger version of himself would take on a titan in LL Cool J. Regardless of who won the battle, LL Cool J maintained his start and Canibus assumed a position as an underground fixture. Canibus helped define LL’s career. And for that, Cool J shouted his former adversary as he was inducted into the Rock-N-Roll Hall of Fame this year. Canibus also discusses a meeting with another hall of famer in Jay-Z in this exclusive interview with Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur. But, moreover, as in part 1 of this conversation, it is apparent that ‘Bis is disenchanted with the state of Hip-Hop, but why? He talks about the puppet masters as well as the people, both of which play a part in the direction the culture has taken. What do you think of his interview?

Click here to buy Canibus’s new album Kaiju or merch.

Dr. Dre is ‘Divorced AF’: Billion Dollar Legal Battle ‘Finalized’?

By: Niki Gatewood (@THE_NikiG) Updated Category: Rumors
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Is Dr. Dre actually divorced from Nicole Young? Recently (on Dec. 9), the music mogul makes a “finalized” announcement. So, the billion dollar battle is settled “in principal,” this according to TMZ.

First off, the marriage between the Good Doctor and Nicole Young lasted over 25 years. Out of that union two children were born. At times, the legal proceedings were contemptuous.

Nevertheless, a candid photo tells it all. An emphatic smile illuminates the platinum producer‘s joy. Behind the good Doctor golden balloons are situated. The balloon bouquet festively spells out, “Divorced AF.”

So, then Breyon Prescott details the event. The accompanying caption proclaims, “Hey Well My Brother @drdre Just Told Me It’s Final !!! Congrats Still Dre.” A champagne bottle, a goat, and a trio of flexed bicep emojis affirm the occasion.

Thus far, “sources with direct knowledge,” dish that “no deal has yet been signed.” These strategic snitches then add, “This whole thing could blow up again.”

Common Says The “Love” Was Not Dispersed After Break Up With Tiffany Haddish

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Common has cited busy work schedules as the reason for his split from Tiffany Haddish.

Late last month, it was revealed that the rapper/actor and the Girls Trip actress had broken up after just over a year of dating.

However, in a new interview, Common explained that the decision to part ways was “mutual” and that their jobs had prevented them from putting as much time and “as much energy” into their romance.

“I don’t think the love really dispersed. I think it was just like we weren’t feeding the relationship,” he mused. “I feel like both of us cherish and valued our relationship and both have come out better human beings.”

However, Common – real name Lonnie Rashid Lynn – insisted that he still remains great friends with Tiffany, 42.

“I want to say Tiffany, as you know, is for me, like, one of the best people I met in life. One of the best-hearted and most authentic and caring people that I met in life, and that’s what made me love her and be in love with her and want to be in a relationship with her and grow with her,” the 49-year-old gushed.

The pair first met on the set of the 2019 film “The Kitchen” but they didn’t embark on a romantic relationship until April 2020.

Culture Kings x Dennis Rodman Launch Collaboration

By: Jake Crates Updated Category: Lifestyle
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Recently Culture Kings teamed up for a collaboration with Dennis Rodman, one of the most enigmatic and eccentric basketball players of all time.

Showing love for “The Worm” -Culture Kings continue their North American expansion with the official Culture Kings x Dennis Rodman collaboration. The effort is a bold, colorful collection that extends Rodman’s legacy through fashion and culture.

Available exclusively on www.CultureKings.com, the fearless and eclectic Dennis Rodman earned his stripes through time as one of the most decorated members of the 90’s Chicago Bulls basketball dynasty. \


As his professional career went on, Rodman drew even more attention off-court with his rainbow-colored
hair, multiple tattoos, and his ability to push the boundaries of conventional fashion, solidifying his status
as a cultural icon.

The long-lasting fame of Dennis Rodman revels in his outsider image celebrated by
fans everywhere, a man who is as much an entertainer as an athlete. Created with Rodman, this new
Culture Kings-exclusive collection reflects that ethos at full volume.

“Dennis Rodman’s unconventional ways and fearlessness have earned him a reputation as one of the
most interesting people in the world, which aligns perfectly with the Culture Kings brand. With the design
process, we really wanted to stay true to Rodman as a living icon and capture his out of this world
persona and key iconic career moments through easy, wearable pieces that fans can incorporate into
their everyday style,” Isaac Metekingi, Creative Director of Culture Kings emphasized.

For more information check out the video below and got get the exclusive merch ASAP!

https://www.instagram.com/culturekings/

RZA Drops Flatbush Zombies Collab “Plug Addicts” & Partners With MNRK Music Group

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News
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RZA kicked off his business relationship with MNRK Music Group by dropping a collaboration with Flatbush Zombies.

The legendary rapper/producer teamed up with the trio for a new single titled “Plug Addicts.’ The song is RZA’s first single released through MNRK, which recently partnered with his 36 Chambers company.

“I’ve had my eyes on the Flatbush Zombies for some time now,” RZA said in a press release. “Their style of dark Hip Hop lyricism is reminiscent of my days in the Gravediggaz. This type of collaboration was overdue.”

Erick Arc Elliott of Flatbush Zombies added, “In a lot of ways, I saw RZA in myself as a fellow producer/artist. We are making history together at this very moment. The music he’s made over the course of his career had a lot to do with why I wanted to make music in the first place, it’s beautiful to see these things come full circle.”

The Wu-Tang Clan co-founder and Flatbush Zombies will drop another single, “Quentin Tarantino,” through MNRK on December 17. The label will also handle the release of RZA’s upcoming album Saturday Afternoon Kung Fu Theater with DJ Scratch as well as his next Bobby Digital LP.

“My creative roots are founded in music, not only as a performing artist but as an entrepreneur,” RZA said. “The MNRK partnership with 36 Chambers creates a wonderful opportunity to bring new music to the world. Aligning and reconnecting with longtime business friend Alan Grunblatt is sure to make this journey a great addition to my musical legacy.”

Watch the video for “Plug Addicts” above.

Megan Thee Stallion Gets Her Own Emoji For College Graduation

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News
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Twitter is celebrating Megan Thee Stallion’s college graduation with a special emoji.

The emoji features Megan Thee Stallion with a cap, sticking her tongue out in signature fashion. Fans can use it by tweeting a variety of hashtags over the weekend.

“Hotties have a cute lil emoji we can use allll weekend to turn up for thee #Hottiegraduation,” Hot Girl Meg wrote.

Megan Thee Stallion’s Twitter emoji works with the hashtags #HottieGraduation, #MeganTheeStallion, #MeganTheeGraduate, #HottieGrad and #HotGirlGraduation. She previously received her own emoji from the social media platform in 2019.

The multi-platinum selling rapper will graduate from Texas Southern University on December 11. She’s receiving a degree in health administration.

A week prior to graduation, Megan Thee Stallion was going to perform in her hometown of Houston. She opted to cancel the concert in light of the tragedy at the 2021 Astroworld Festival.

“Out of respect for the lives lost in Houston earlier this month, I have decided to cancel my show at 713 Music Hall on Dec 3,” she said in a statement. “Houston is still healing and it’s important that our community be given the appropriate time to grieve. My heart goes out to all the families that are suffering during this difficult time.”