Music travels seamlessly across the barriers of time, distance, beliefs, choices, color, creed, race, and more, offering us humans an experience that touches the very core of our existence.
So, when ace musician MB Longmoney belts his thought that music brings masses closer and builds harmony, he only spills out what we all feel when we immerse our senses into our favorite melodies.
“Music truly has magic that effortlessly induces togetherness and love. And only those who have experienced it can speak of its wonders”, states Longmoney.
MB Longmoney adds, “Smile your most magical smile at strangers, and they may not respond. Play some great music, though, and you will soon have a crowd of unknown souls dancing away with you.” That’s how wonderful music can be!
From penning powerful lyrics to awaken the masses to even sounding the clarion call for a peaceful rebellion, musicians have wielded the power of music across centuries to bring the groups closer – all in the hope that harmony will prevail.
As per MB Longmoney, while listening to the powerful words of Bob Dylan while he sings Blowin’ in the Wind, urges us to share the song with all those around us in the hope that cannonballs are forever banned. Watching the Woodstock documentary with friends has us marvel at the milestone event in music, evoking collective sighs and “we wish we were there” and “we wish there were more” moments.
MB Longmoney rightly sums up all these feelings when he says that music breaks down even the most rigid boundaries and brings about a sense of peace and harmony.
If only the humans of this world paid a little more attention to the musical ways of life, we would have far fewer wars and more music festivals!
All this, in the hope of breathing in life and all that it offers. With smiles on our faces and music in our hearts. We were always meant to be together, and MB Longmoney signs off in harmony.
Tristan Thompson is allegedly expecting his third child, this according to the Daily Mail. The contentious paternity suit, sought by Maralee Nichols, is proving to be ever salacious. She seeks financial assistance to help cover pregnancy-related medical bills. Plus, the ex-trainer, is suing for an unspecified amount for child support.
These two agree on very little. Both parties acknowledge that they were intimate. However, the number of times and the seriousness of their encounters is what is in question. Thompson contends, that during the time he was in Houston, to celebrate his 30th birthday, were the only times that he smashed. According to him, the sneaky links only happened twice.
Listen, to that notion, Nichols could not wait to call b#######. She vehemently admits that “five months before” the birthday sex and for many months after, their relationship continued. Yep, hand to God, she refers to it as a whole relationship; okay.
Both of these sexy timelines prove one thing. Tristan was less than faithful to reality star, Khloe Kardashian. Previously, the pair dated. Now, they work to proactively co-parent their daughter, True. So, today (Dec. 3), as the internet continues to sling news of Tristan’s mess, Kardashian could not wait to protect her peace.
Any day now, Nichols is due to deliver her son. To be a protective mother, she too understands the requirements. Far before her due date, Maralee, allegedly met with the notion that Tristan suggested she abort the pregnancy. RadarOnline reportedly has secured text messages.
In them, a nonchalant Tristan Thompson gives the expectant mother the blues. To secure an abortion, he supposedly offered her a $75,000 lump sum payment. TT is with the s###. Through his legal counsel, he told the court that he believes Nichols is of an unscrupulous character.
Motivated by money, Tristian alleges that’s the reason why Maralee would come to California. Below, check out the alleged screenshots of text messages that were sent from Tristan to Maralee.
Given Tristan’s unsolicited candor, what should be Maralee’s next move?
Grandmaster Jay, the leader of the NFAC, isn’t about to let some fed charges stop him from celebrating his birthday. He appeared in court on his birthday, December 1, but opted to celebrate this weekend in Louisville, KY – the same city he was accused of pointing a gun at five lawmen perched atop buildings during a military formation.
He vehemently denies those allegations for a myriad of reasons.
Grandmaster Jay, real name John Fitzgerald Johnson, heads up The Not F###### Around Coalition, or NFAC, the largest Black militia in the history of America. Last month, the feds indicted him on five counts of wanton endangerment in the first degree, a felony. Oddly, the officer that shot and murdered Breonna Taylor in her sleep was charged with the same offense.
Grandmaster Jay and the NFAC mobilized on Louisville two times in the tragic aftermath of Breonna Taylor’s. The second took place at the same time as the 2020 Kentucky Derby in September. In December 2020, months later, Grandmaster Jay was charged with the crime of pointing a rifle at LMPD, FBI, and Secret Service agents during the September outing as they stood on the roof of the Jefferson County Grand Jury Building.
Despite these charges, Grandmaster Jay seemed relaxed, yet spirited and ready to celebrate his birthday this weekend in Louisville. He talked to AllHipHop’s Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur in an extended interview that will drop next week.
Grandmaster Jay said the celebration would allow him to bring his now-legally forbidden social media offerings to real life. This live event included his popular IG series “Factz Ova Feelings,” which is still posted all over other people’s social media. It will all take place at The Old Walnut Plaza, a renovated strip mall that now houses numerous Black-owned businesses.
“I’ve partnered with the department of recreations…we’re going into the Black community that’s already been gentrified…they got all Black businesses inside of [The Old Walnut Plaza],” he said. “They want people to come in and patronize the place. That’s where I am going to have my celebration. That’s where I am going to have the NFAC Awards.”
That’s correct: there’s an awards ceremony that will correspond with the birthday celebration.
Additionally, the music played will be a decidedly old-school affair.
“It’s old school. I don’t mean old school R&B, I mean old school Hip-Hop. We going in. We grown folks. I’m up there now (at 58 years old). The new school might tip-toe up in there,” Grandmaster Jay said. “Polo might tip-toe one time. Kendrick might come around the corner. Drake might slide through there, but it’s an old school party nonetheless.”
GMJ has pleaded not guilty to five counts of wanton endangerment and, if convicted, he looks at a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. This will not stop the celebration of life on December 4.
Skillz has decided not to release a “Rap Up” song for 2021.
The veteran rapper announced he wouldn’t drop a “2021 Rap Up” on Friday (December 3). Skillz didn’t provide a reason why he’s stopping the yearly recaps.
“Ain’t gonna be no 2021 Rap Up from me,” he wrote on Twitter and Instagram. “I’m done with em.”
Skillz began his yearly recaps with the “2002 Rap Up.” The songs quickly became an annual Hip Hop tradition that fans came to expect every year.
Prior to his announcement, Skillz hinted he was done with “Rap Up” concept. A few hours before he made it official, the Virginia native tweeted a video of Magic Johnson’s infamous “I’m not gonna be here” quote in reference to the “Rap Up.”
“I for sure gotta be on my way to being the most influential, imitated, concept rapper of all time,” he wrote alongside the clip. “Hope you enjoyed 20 years of raps ups bcuz come this time next year?”
Unless Skillz changes his mind, the “2020 Rap Up” will be the final release in his series. Uncle Murda has done his own version of the yearly recaps but received strong backlash – including a diss track – from the concept’s originator.
Michel Kawski, better known as Trae K, is an independent music artist from Hamburg, Germany. He is making great strides in going global by making his music available worldwide across continents. Trae K has been a part of this music industry for the last three years and had his first project released on 19th November 2021, “F### you for Judging.” He is the definition of hard work and hustle due to the fact that he is self-made with nothing handed to him.
Even though Trae K has worked globally with multiple producers, he is currently represented by Fas Beats from Germany, and they are working on some great projects together. There is too much buzz around his songs, such as Real 1s, Menergy, Let’s Go, Okay Trae, and many more, which we recommend you to check out. According to the young artist, his genre of music is ‘eye-opening’ as he addresses real-world issues through his musical talent. Trae K mostly listens to Bob Marley, Thugger, and Juice Wrld as he connects with them on a whole new level and aspires to be as great as them.
His loyal fanbase is highly dedicated to his work and always shows their support using social media. The debut project, “F### you for Judging,” launched on 11/19/2021, and the fans have shown a great response to it. Determined to preach his message to society, the young artist works hard to bring his visual concepts to life in his music videos. His inspirations include Bob Marley, Thugger, and Swae Lee. Currently, Trae works independently, but he plans to build his own personal brand called ML4L (Money Long 4 Life).
Trae K firmly believes that one should always believe in themselves no matter what and ponder over their life. He wants to get his listeners thinking about what matters and plans to redefine the existing music industry. He is here to be a leader of a revival movement of music and has asked his fans to listen to his track “F##### up World” on his new album then think about it. Trae K can be the next big hit, and his revolutionary music is here to modify the music industry. We recommend you listen to his music to understand the hype yourself. Make sure to check out Trae K’s new music project, “F### you for Judging,” released on 11/19/2021.
Follow Trae K on his social media to keep yourself updated on his gigs!
MC Lyte is a bonafide legend in the rap game, and now she’s taking her talents into the film world.
During a time where female rappers are recognized and respected more than ever, it’s important to recognize the greats that came before us. Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Lyte carries endless achievements and accolades, including being the first solo female rapper to drop a full-length album (Lyte as a Rock back in 1988).
Fast forward to 2021, MC Lyte is excited as ever to be releasing her own sitcom titled Partners In Rhyme, a 7-episode original series that premiered on AMC Network’s streamer, ALLBLK.
Teaming up with director Bentley Kyle Evans, who’s worked on legendary television shows such as “Martin” and “The Jamie Foxx Show,” the light-hearted show stars the rapper as Lana Crawford and is loosely based on MC Lyte’s own personal and professional career.
After Lana is dropped from her label and facing major debt, she shifts her focus into managing her niece, Lucious T, an upcoming Instagram rapper. Of course, the big gap in generations cause ripples in any situation, as both try to navigate working and living under the same roof.
AllHipHop: How are you feeling? How’s everything?
MC Lyte: Oh my goodness, I’m so excited! This is new terrain that I have actually been waiting for all of my life. This TV show many, many years ago, when I was with William Morris, we were working on a TV show. Because of that, it was very disappointing when I left to take my performance to another agency. William Morris said “No, no, you gotta have everything here if you’re gonna have anything here. I said, “I made the decision to go with the other company.” And it was great.
I toured my butt off all throughout the 90’s and the 2000’s. It was really great but because I was with a performance agency, they didn’t really deal with theatrical. So I didn’t really get a chance to work that muscle. Here we are with a TV show where I’m executive producing, co-created, and acting in. It’s everything all rolled in one.
AllHipHop: You’re known to be one of the pioneers of females in Hip Hop. How did it feel to bring your talents over to the film world?
MC Lyte: Oh man, it felt fantastic. Really, I’ve been acting professionally since ‘91. I did an off-Broadway play that had Wyclef Jean, Lauryn Hill, Darrin Henson, it was a bunch of us in a great Off-Broadway play here in the city. I did another movie, I can’t even remember the name of it, but it was fairly okay. But then, I went and got some lessons.
I went to school in LA for two years. After that, I was on a train. [snaps] Kept going until I stopped in 2008, then I came back to it in 2017 or 2018. It’s been great. That’s why I only really do projects that I’m producing. [laughs] Unless you’re inviting me in!
I’ve got a Christmas movie coming out where the EPs Jamie Foxx and Datari Turner said, “We want you to play in this role.” I said “Okay, I’ll be there.” But most times, I’m trying to put energy into the projects that my company is creating.
AllHipHop: How did you come up with the name Partners in Rhyme? So clever.
MC Lyte: Well I’d love to say I came up with it, I didn’t. I just had the idea. Once you start talking to people who write, they start coming up with a bunch of titles. Partners in Rhyme actually was the first title. I said, “Ehh, it sounds too much like partners in crime.” They said, “Yeah, that’s the point.” I said “Oh, okay!” It grew on me.
AllHipHop: How did you prepare for this role?
MC Lyte: Life. My entire life I’ve been preparing for this role, because the role is loosely based on a woman who’s been rapping and she has legendary status. However, the record label is no longer interested in putting out her music, but would much rather see her go in the direction of teaching all that she knows to someone younger.
Someone who they can put out and not have to work hard to sell, and I know that game. It was really just my life that prepared me for it. As it leads to the actual dialogue, we had a coach on set that would run lines with me. I’ve been on many sitcoms, but never my own.
I’ve never had to learn as much dialogue as I had to learn with this role. He’d come in and read with me and it made it that much easier for a schedule that we had. It was a really routine schedule.
AllHipHop: What was the schedule like? Because I know filming hours can be really rigorous. You’re there all day on set.
MC Lyte: I would be giving away Bentley Kyle’s secret recipe if you knew how we actually shot this, but we shot several episodes congruently. It was always “What’s the sentiment? What just happened?” Okay, because we were always out of order. I had to be on my P’s and Q’s.
AllHipHop: What goes behind executive producing, and starring in your own sitcom?
MC Lyte: Work! [laughs] Being involved in every little bit of it. Bentley and I are the writers: we sat down, we created it, we wrote the first episode. We created all of the storylines, then had to meet with all of the writers continuously through the process of it. I didn’t want any profanity.
With an SVOD, they told us “you can do whatever you want. You can curse, dah dah dah.” Every time one of the writers would try to put in a curse, I said “nuh uh, that’s not what we’re doing here.” “But they said we could!” Just because they said we could, doesn’t mean we should. It was keeping a watchful eye on it all.
One day, it was getting out of hand. I said “Okay listen, let’s have the talk. Let’s have the conversation. First off, I’ve been in this thing for 30 years. There’s a reason why ALLBLK bought this show without a script, because they trust me!
They trust that what I’m bringing is what they want. They trust and value my opinion and my perspective, and the women who are tuned into this SVOD are MC Lyte fans.
They’re right in my spectrum of listenership, viewership, so I wanted to take care of them.” I also said to them, “you may not have ever gotten an Image Award, but I certainly want this show to be in the running for anything possible. We don’t want to get counted out before we even start.” So it takes work. As my CEO says: inspect what you expect.
An NFT collector paid over $450,000 to be Snoop Dogg’s virtual neighbor.
Earlier this year, the Doggfather teamed up with a cryptocurrency metaverse game called The Sandbox to create his own Snoopverse. The legendary rapper recreated his mansion inside the game, giving fans a chance to become his virtual neighbors.
A user named P-Ape purchased one of the three estates offered in the Snoopverse LAND sale, obtaining a spot next to Snoop Dogg’s virtual property. P-Ape spent 70,903.8222 SAND, which is equivalent to $458,038 in the Ethereum-based game’s native tokens, to own the NFT.
Snoop Dogg reacted to the hefty price paid by his new neighbor on Twitter.
“Won’t u be my neighbor,” he wrote alongside the staring eyes emoji.
Fans don’t have to break the bank to enjoy the Snoopverse though. Cheaper NFTs are also available as part of The Sandbox’s collaboration with Snoop Dogg.
“I’m always on the lookout for new ways of connecting with fans and what we’ve created in The Sandbox is the future of virtual hangouts, NFT drops and exclusive concerts,” Snoop Dogg said in September. “We’ll have a fresh set of Dogg style NFTs that players can integrate into the game experiences to take this online experience to the next level for sure.”
Young Dolph, the rapper slain outside of a cookie shop in Memphis in the middle of November, will be getting a street renamed in his honor.
Memphis City Councilman J.B. Smiley will sponsor a resolution for the honor on December 7th.
According to Fox 13, the politician is moving swiftly to change the corners of Martin Luther King Avenue and Elvis Presley Boulevard to Young Dolph’s name before the Christmas Holiday.
His office hopes to have the ceremony for the name change by December 15th.
The rapper’s family released a statement thanking Councilman Smiley for the gesture.
“Castalia Heights community, in particular, bestowing this honor is not only a way to celebrate his contributions, but it also continues to serve as a remembrance for the people of this community, of someone who made themselves a relatable example of hard work and perseverance. He sent the message that someone who went to the same schools as them, and walked the same streets that they do, was able to not only create a successful legacy for himself but also prioritize family and community,” the statement reads.
“In short, he was a role model and beacon of hope. And he took this responsibility very seriously. Beyond the philanthropic efforts and acts of community building, Adolph also spoke with community leaders about his plans to build music education centers where young people would be able to gain access to the training and resources often unattainable to under-served and under-represented communities,” the statement continued.
“It was always his mission to bridge those gaps and create pathways for the people of his city. Countries and communities all over the world have been honoring his life with murals and dedications, and these public acts of love are received warmly by our family. But how much more meaningful would it be to have his very own hometown do the same,” Young Dolph’s family said.
There is something about the brotherhood of Hip-Hop.
With all of the hood posturing that New York rappers exude in their rhymes, concepts of comradery and loyalty — grown man s##t overwhelms the spirit of the culture. This sense of brotherhood transcends the “the streets don’t owe you nothing” mindset that requires the daily uniform of Timbs and fitteds to drip the landscapes of each borough (and outer boroughs). It is far bigger than the “I gotta get mines, you gotta get yours” mentality that compromises cooperative economics, divides the hood into sets and crews, has grandmothers hanging out the windows over the bodegas, and telling the homies to get off the block. This brotherhood of Hip-Hop is simply the “tribe” in A Tribe Called Quest, the common “enemy” in PE, the “clan” in the Wu-Tang Clan, and the engine that “runs” RUN-DMC.
It is why Russell Simmons, Ralph McDaniels, and Luther Campbell are all of our uncles.
The brotherhood is rooted in the trust an emcee has when he offers his pen to a beat— masterfully altar-ing it for the prayer of perfection. It is why Mobb Deep and The Lox are two of the best rap groups to ever pick up a mic.
So, when Prodigy died on June 20, 2017, we cried for his partner-in-rhyme, Havoc, in more ways than one.
Of course, we cried because a life was lost and because the group that we have loved since Juvenile Hell would no longer be what it was. But our hearts also broke because we knew that this “brotherhood,” that we watched develop from childhood, had entered into a cycle of completion that neither emcee nor fan was ready. In a culture that rejects the comforting spirit of family, isolated by five or so districts on a map that none of us have defined, and makes everyone feel like the world is not a friend — we shed tears for what, at least musically, would be an unmatched loneliness for the QB lyricist and producer.
But then … we are revived with a reminder of that brotherhood … years later … in the August 1st Verzuz series.
We saw Dipset, reunited and dripping like Harlem do. But, in a flash of brilliance that is far more superior than the average “you had to be there” moment in this rap s##t, we saw The Lox.
We all saw them. United as brothers, who had easily four decades of relational honesty, creative ingenuity, and economic prosperity undergirding their flawless victory in this unconventional song battle.
And we thought … for a moment … like an ill Hip-Hop dream that you might ask the Good Lord to make come true … “What if …”
… Hip-Hop was birthed out of “what ifs.” And so was Wreckage Manner.
Wreckage Manner
Wreckage Manmer is the collaborative project between Mobb Deep’s Havoc and The Lox’ Styles P. Produced by Hav, each song contains the skillful wordsmithing that anchored both juggernaut groups. Nikki Duncan-Smith sat down with the two to explore the concept of brotherhood in Hip-Hop at the video shoot for the first single off the project, “Nightmares 2 Dream.”
They talked about the craft of emceeing, the kinship of their era, and why this project is a must-have in any music lover’s stream library.
Moreover, it is the adoption of the brother left alone by the cruel abandonment of death, to be reborn as a stronger and more evolved man. Mostly, figuring it out on his own, but also through the friendships of another brother.
AllHipHop: How did y’all come up with the idea for you guys to collaborate on a new project?
Havoc: I was just showing me thinking about my own most favorite emcees and you know, one of the first people that came to mind was Styles P. Styles is one of my favorite emcees of all time. And I said to myself, “Damn, I want to do a project with son.” So, I gave him a call. I texted him up. And the rest is history.
AHH: What made you decide to want to work with Havoc (directing the question to Styles P)? Was it just because of your friendship?
Styles P: It’s Havoc. I mean come on … it’s Havoc from Mobb Deep.
I’m a lyricist. I love my genre. I love music, period. So, you know, it’s an honor and a privilege for me to be able to work with Hav. I’ve worked with him in the past. We have two incredible joints together: Big’s “Last Days” and “This Is How I Live” on my sophomore album. It was just our rapport over the years that made me want to do it. How he works and what he means to the culture. For me, anytime you get a chance to do something historic in your career, where you know you will look back and say, “I achieved that and I did that,” I feel it is mandatory to make that happen.
AHH: Is rapport important? How important is rapport when it comes to creating magic? People create stuff all day … but MAGIC is something different.
SP: I think rapport is important in your personal relationship and how you work. But as far as creating magic … magic only happens when it’s meant to be … meant to happen. You can’t invent chemistry. You can’t invent good chemistry. You can put two of the greatest artists in the world together, if they don’t have chemistry it is not going to work. It just won’t come outright. It will come out inauthentic. It will come out as some kind of b#######, really, to put it in layman’s terms.
AHH: There has to be some sort of methodology to it. Both of you are part of legendary groups and have had classic albums, how does this keep happening to the two of you over and over again? What is it? There has to be some sort of system, not chemistry … but some sort of formula for that to happen.
SP: The formula is respect. The formula is shared respect and admiration. Like, although he is more talented than be … because he can rhyme and produce. I just rhyme.
HV: Don’t listen to him.
SP: For me, in real terms, we’re the same age but he provided an option and a hope for me.
He was on first. I think, in this thing of ours, we often forget those who paved the way. Even though they may be our peers, he’s my parent. I’m grateful that he acknowledged me as a peer, but I still remember. I’m a guy who remembers the past a lot, so I remember working a stock job … leaving the stock job … hitting the block … moving work, and watching what they were doing. Just by them being able to do it, made me know, I had a chance at doing it.
Also, we are from the Golden Era. There’s not a little a lot of people you can say from the Golden Era … that made Golden Era s##t. Especially in New York City. It is this the f###### toughest space in the world. We got the most crucial critics that you will ever meet. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. And we were able to be dominant in that era and we are still alive, lasting, and relevant to the culture until this day. So, working with Hav was easy because I look at him with admiration and will always give him that nod of respect.
AHH: He’s been around for about 26 years just killing the game.
HV: The reason why I’ve worked with Styles is because I remember hearing about them and going, “Uh Oh!” When an artist can make you go “Uh Oh,” and make you get on your game … I’m a permanent fan. And I never forgot that feeling.
AHH: What was the first Mobb Deep song that you heard? And where were you when you first heard it … if you can remember?
SP: Definitely. I want to say around 12 grade. I don’t know if you know … but before they made Bob (Bobbito and Stretch Armstrong), they were talking s## on Buckshot s##t. At that time, they had a few s##ts underground that I knew. I can’t remember, but that’s how much we know about The Mobb.
God bless the dead, my homie Amari. He’s in heaven now, but his energy is here. He was a Hip-Hop connoisseur. We were coming up, you couldn’t just find music. Hip-Hop is different now because of the internet … But back then … what made you really Hip-Hop was when you were fishing to find a dope s##t first. Hearing for yourself who was gonna be them n#####. Fishing … Who you heard was killing it in ciphers and in the studios and other places? So, they (Mobbs Deep) were ringing. I knew about them before they actually made it. I knew about them by the time “Shook Ones” came out. When you’re a Hip-Hop head, you knew about them. We knew they were coming when they were talking s##t on buckshot s##t. They had a couple of things already circulating.
AHH: Where were you when you first heard The Lox joint? Or their voice … since people knew their voices before their project came?
HV: It was a little different for me. Because this was going to be the first time I was going to do a beat for Big.
So, I do the beat for Big. I have no idea who’s gonna be on the record. But then when I finally heard the record, The Lox were on the record. So, that’s the first time I heard, The Lox. So, I’m listening. And I’m like, “Uh, Oh!” It was one of those things like, “Yo, these are dope emcees expanding the board.”
They were from Yonkers, and I was like, “Oh, s##t. I thought he was from where I’m from.” That’s how dope they sounded. That’s not to take anything away from Yonkers. But it had me saying, “Do these n##gas live on the next block?” Because we are talking about the same s##t. I still feel like that to this day. When they rap … I’m like “Damn, you sure we not from the same place? The same neighborhood?
AHH: There is an energy that these young guys got to see for the first time with the Verzuz. There was a fire in your eyes. A hunger in your eye that was absent from all the other Verzuz. Hav, what did you think when you watched the Verzuz and saw The Lox up there against another sound group from the Golden Era?
HV: First of all, I already knew that they were gonna win. Not to take anything away from Dipset. I spoke to Styles after that, like maybe like a week or so, and I said to him, “Yo, you mutherf##kas are superheroes!”
AHH: what are the things that people may never think about Styles in the studio, that you were able to peep?
HV: What I peeped about Styles P is that he works fast. You send him a track, he’ll send it right back. I am sure if the track is wack, he probably won’t send it right back. (laughter) I did send a dud and it didn’t come back.
SP: it wasn’t on the vibe we were on.
HV: But that’s what keeps you sharp as a producer, you feel me? So I love that.
AHH: What do you say that most people will never think about Hav as a producer and emcee that you peeped?
SP: His hunger. As an emcee, it always was interesting to me that he was an emcee and a producer.
I always feel like he has an incredible talent. It’s hard to explain this, but he has a soulful ear that matches every time-era. He is sending me joints and I am like “I got to show up, this is Hav.”
I work at a pretty nice pace for an emcee. But it’s something about when somebody sends you some s##t and it just sends you in a zone … that is different. It’s no longer work. It’s more like a tap-in. I have days where I go to work and I have to find the zone. I have to dig through the beats and then by the third beat, I got something. But that wasn’t what this was or felt like. It was like if we run it up the court and I already know where to go on the court for the win. I know what he’s gonna give me. I know where to stand. I know I can catch it and I know that I can work with what he’s gonna give me.
I always think about how people are going to feel when they hear the music.
That’s my biggest thing? I felt like what he was sending was tapping into our era and the new generation. He is able to do that. I don’t know how but he was able to give us the golden era, and still was able to bring it into the now. As an emcee, if you hear my last few projects, I searched for that. I searched for young people who are able to tap into that old feeling.
AHH: You guys are emcees’ emcees. Were you trying to best each other lyrically?
SP: We went into the project like that. This is where you can see what I mean when I say “he’s the driver,” because he’s doing both. I had an easier job than he had. He said something that woke me up as an emcee that’s complimentary and was a compliment. He said, “I’m up. You got me back where I needed to be. I’m up. I’m on it.” Then I heard what he was saying … and was like “Ooo … we have a mission to complete.
AHH: Havoc… How do you do that? How do you rhyme on something that you created? While you’re making the beat? Are you thinking, “Oh, I am gonna say this here … or does it come later?”
HV: It comes later. Because, by that time, I am so used to the beat it is like cooking. After you finish cooking, usually you don’t want to eat. When you make the beat, you don’t really feel like f##king writing. But, then when you hear somebody else, another artist rapping on it … one that you appreciate … It kind of puts the fire to you. Then you are like, “Oh, s##t, I gotta write some s##t.”
I work best with dope emcees. I don’t work good by myself. I need something to put it against you Working with Prodigy, I always understood that it was f###### crazy, and then working with Styles, it’s the same f##king thing: two extraordinary emcees. By nature, they will just lift the skills of anybody else around.
AHH: That’s a great transition. When talking about Mobb Deep, people will always bring up Prodigy as an ill emcee. People always bring up Jada Kiss, in this conversation of the Top Five Dead or Alive. Do you think that sometimes, people front on either of your pens? Do they forget how dope both of you are?
SP: I think it depends on how you look at your fan base. I think if you look at your fan base from an egotistical point, you could get caught up in that. I get people all the time to come up to me and say, “What up, P. I love you. Kiss my dude.” “Yo what up, P? I love you. I f##k with Sheek more?”
I’m not on that thing. I am a grown man. I know that if you tap into what they’re saying, you tap into what I’m saying. We are from the same crew. We brothers. Still, we all are just approaching this from a different angle. I don’t really get caught up in that. When you are able to make a name for yourself throughout all of that, it makes you even hungrier. It makes you get into your bag more.
People have asked me, “Yo, how do you feel like being so underrated?” I’m not underrated. I’m not for everybody. You got to be on a certain kind of vibration to tap into what I’m saying. I’m comfortable with that.
AHH: And even that. … you are for a lot of people. That’s a real grown man answer. There are a lot of different types of people but they are all needed to make this Hip-Hop thing dope. And then there are these lists …
SP: As an emcee, I’ve been talking about these lists for years. Nobody ever really says anything to me about them so I’m comfortable in my position. Not only that, when you run alongside the best … if you’re comfortable. Our lists, me and Hav, of who we’ve rhymed alongside. And that’s pretty solid. You don’t just get to rhyme next to Big. You don’t get to rhyme next to these people if you don’t do this.
AHH: Talking about grown man s##t. You guys are both extremely health conscious. Does that help you keep your stamina when you guys go into a project like this? Did you both know that you all shared this interest?
HV: Styles, probably didn’t know what kind of tip I was on, but I definitely knew about him. Being health-conscious is a responsibility. You got kids. You are gonna have grandkids. Even if you don’t, we still want to be here for a while. So, that’s one thing that you just have to pay attention to. Regardless of who you are.
SP: Nah, I knew. Because Kiss told me about you and your bike. We check-in.
HV: (Laughter) I forgot about that. I see Kiss out there doing his thing. We know about the juices. We know about veganism and in fact, my mom cooks vegan food and all that. That was another reason why I wanted to connect with him. Even though I didn’t vocalize that (or that was like a focal point). Just on the strength that he is conscious like that, he was somebody I could f### with. We are on the same frequency.
SP: Facts.
I think that’s just part of life, not even so much making music. I think where our community is heading, for me, is bigger than making music. As a Black man, Brown man, Black King, Brown King… whatever you want to call it … I think it’s important. One, you don’t really know. I could walk out of this building right now, and get hit by a f###### car or slip on the M&M and break my neck.
But I think the message that you leave to people who are watching you is that it is a message that is important for your community. I think that’s the most important thing for the Brown community to understand is that you don’t get a shot at all this good s### and nice s### and then can’t enjoy it.
People think if you’re healthy, you got to be a tree hugger. You got to be eating granola and just got your fist up in the air. You can’t like Rolexes, foreign cars, and fashion. No, being healthy is just being healthy. It doesn’t change the perspective or your persona of who you are. You will grow as you’re getting healthier. I always felt like there was a stigma within the Hip-Hop community; somebody has to be either Rasta, a doctor, a tree hugger, a granola, college-educated to be on some family s### … but the reality is in the hood … is something different.
What’s the number one important rule in the most ghetto places in the world? Survival. That said … survival, the 10 toes down survival is about figuring out how to get out of situations and be the best that you can be. I’m saying go on plant-based but I’m nine years in on Nov. 31.
I still do Turkey drives because I’m from a poor community and the people are hungry and that’s what they will eat, and I’m pretty sure when God made animal he knew somebody was going to eat it. But I’m gonna tell the people that I don’t eat it and for them to stop eating it. I will also say that if they don’t stop, to get a free-range one. It’s more so a balanced thing. Because the reality of it is, we have a lot of s### we already have on our shoulders and our back. Besides that, we got to understand that the inside of our bodies is as important as the outside of our bodies.
These are lessons, we have to engage and fight for that survival for the next generation. So that’s why I’m really passionate about it … and I’m African.
AHH: As we wrap up, can you say something to Hav that you don’t think he knows you feel about him? And you say something to your
SP: I tell Havoc I love him. He knows I love him. I told Hav that I admired him. I looked up to him before I got here. I respect him. Everything about his work ethic is amazing. Oh, but I didn’t tell him this … I’m jealous because he could rhyme and make beats very well! Man, I can’t produce. I was gonna ask him for a producing session.
And one other thing I wanted to say, and this goes to my son too if he’s paying attention, I definitely want to bring my son around Hav … just so he can be able to sit down let him soak up the energy.
My son’s a dope producer. He’s made a lot of dope s### for me and I’m proud of him. And he got that golden era in him. He does fire, s###. But I want him to sit with Hav.
HV: I think I heard him. I heard you say that on the track.
SP: So, I would love that. I look up to this man for what he’s done for the culture and I admire his strength. I admire how he was able to hold that legacy down. He was in a two-man group and he’s half of the group now, but he represents both very well. He holds the legacy in the world and he’s continuing with the legacy.
HV: And for me, I admire his outspokenness. Show me how to be outspoken like that, because when I’m in the crowd I’m always quiet.
SP: You know … I just don’t know how to bite my tongue.
HV: I am hoping that rubs off. I am gonna be in another room somewhere when no one is around and I am like ‘shut the f### up. When I am with him, it rubs off on me. This brother is so outspoken. I just love that he has never changed. Stay like that.
Wreckage is a synonym for Havoc. Manner is a synonym for Styles. The combination of both spirits is something that the culture needs. The whole culture. Whether they know it or not. And it is more than just a pet project from two of the most prolific legacy artists in the culture … it is. … a road map to the agency that Hip-Hop has over generations. It is textured by street culture, peppered by consciousness, and altogether wrapped in heart.
Hip Hop rockstar Rek Banga is unapologetically ascending to greatness and making his presence known as his name resonates throughout Hollywood.
His lengthy signature red locks and deep, raspy voice sets him apart from his peers in the industry, giving way to a new vocal sonority that many others are sure to emulate.
His latest hit, “City of Bompton” he’s dropping keys on the protocols of visiting the legendary city of Compton, California.
“Don’t be an opp and always remain consistent, or the consequences will be unpleasant for the violator,” raps Rek.
This record also pays homage to the classic Hip Hop record, “Nuthin’ but a G Thang” showing production influenced by iconic producer, Dr Dre.
The track features labelmate, Almighty Breskii, who borrows from Snoop Dogg’s 1,2,3,4—lyrics, but continues with an original flow.
The New Jersey native continues to set trends by continually thinking and performing outside of what all other artists are doing, setting him on a path of success and longevity.
The rock star Marilyn Manson will no longer be included on the GRAMMY the best rap song nomination with Kanye West for the song, “Jail” off his latest album, titled after the rapper’s mother, DONDA.
Manson was dropped from the list off a technicality.
The record that he co-wrote on was actually “Jail pt. 2.” This song, which also features the North Carolina rapper DaBaby, has been ruled by The Academy to be a separate song.
According to Billboard, the one that is being considered in the version played at the very first listening experience at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, GA.
As reported by AllHipHop.com Jay-Z hopped on the track a few hours before the epic listening party.
Hov’s verse was layered, and GRAMMY-worthy, as he spits, “God in my cells, that’s my celly/ Made in the image of God, that’s a selfie. Pray five times a day/ so many felonies. Who gon’ post my bail? Lord, help me/ Hol’ up, Donda, I’m with your baby when I touched Rome/ Told ’em stop all of that red cap, we goin’ home/ Not bein’ with all of these sins, cast the stones/ This might be the return of the throne.”
Don’t feel bad for Manson. He will still be considered for the Best Album GRAMMY award, as “Jail pt. 2” appears on the album and is nominated in that category.
Drake can relentlessly wield his Power and his Petty. Recently, the understanding “Fair Trade” wordsmith gave, YK Osiris, an opportunity to escape his $60,000 debt. But, how? Why, a quick serenade of “Worth It,” proved priceless.
The Certified Lover Boy insists, “You owe me sixty bands. And, you have to perform the song, right now, in the crib. What are we talking about.” As Drizzy continues to politely apply pressure, he adds, “I’m giving you an out. “I’m not Baby, I’m not Boosie. You don’t owe me two racks; or, five racks. You owe me sixty bands. And, I’m playing the song right now, you ready?”
As with any investment, Drake wanted the most for his money. He then demands, “You won’t owe me no money. Right now; I swear. I need a full performance though; the real s### though.”
Knowing a good deal, YK, would soon oblige. The “Money Keep Calling” singer instantly transforms into performance mode. Unyielding passion, sweeping gesticulations — and, of course — signature ad-libs were included in the impromptu delivery.
Yes, this really happened. Check out the video .
https://www.instagram.com/p/CW_XyfqJFXd/
“This is what happens when u owe 60,000.” – YK Osris
Americans can watch Don’t Look Up on Netflix beginning December 24 or in theaters beginning December 10. Before the Adam McKay-directed movie is available for viewing, the public can listen to Scott “Kid Cudi” Mescudi and Ariana Grande’s new song from the film.
“Just Look Up” hit DSPs on Friday, December 3. An official lyric video for the song also landed on Ariana Grande’s verified YouTube channel on that same date.
Both musicians hopped on Twitter to share links to “Just Look Up” on various music streaming platforms such as YouTube, Apple Music, Spotify, and Tidal. Ariana Grande and Kid Cudi also praised each other in their respective tweets.
“RiLello forever 🔭🔭🔭. So incredibly honored and thrilled to have done this with you!” declared Ariana Grande about working with Kid Cudi on the record. Cudi responded, “[Are you kidding] me?? I AM honored!! This is only the beginning! RiLello forever. 🙏🏽🥰.”
Kid Cudi also recently delivered “Guns Go Bang” with Jay-Z for the Roc Nation-produced The Harder They Fall soundtrack. The Cleveland-bred rapper’s 2021 featured collaborations with Kanye West for “Moon” and Drake for “IMY2” as well.
Netflix’s Don’t Look Up black comedy stars Oscar winner Jennifer Lawrence as an astronomy graduate student and Oscar winner Leonardo DiCaprio as a college professor. Plus, the cast includes Ariana Grande, Kid Cudi, Rob Morgan, Meryl Streep, Jonah Hill, Mark Rylance, Cate Blanchett, Tyler Perry, Ron Perlman, and Timothée Chalamet.
Director Jeymes “The Bullitts” Samuel’s The Harder They Fall is a major success for Netflix. The Westerntopped the Nielsen U.S. Streaming Chart for the week of November 1 to November 7.
According to Deadline, The Harder They Fall amassed 1.2 billion minutes of streaming views during the tracking period. Netflix’s You series came in at #2 with 994 million minutes of viewing.
The Nielsen Media Research firm calculates TV streams from Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Apple TV+, and Amazon Prime Video for its chart. Nielsen releases the information the following month.
The Harder They Fall debuted on the Netflix streaming platform on November 3. The film stars Jonathan Majors, Idris Elba, Zazie Beetz, Regina King, Delroy Lindo, Lakeith Stanfield, RJ Cyler, Danielle Deadwyler, Edi Gathegi, and Deon Cole.
Carter also helped oversee the movie’s soundtrack which featured contributions by Kid Cudi, Ms. Lauryn Hill, CeeLo Green, Jadakiss, Conway The Machine, and others. “Guns Go Bang” and “King Kong Riddim” included Jay-Z verses.
“One of the most exciting things is the music. You don’t think of how Westerns influenced the world,” stated Jay-Z. “It was the only thing on TV. You can see the reach when people in Jamaica were dressed in full Western cowboy regalia.”
He added, “The Westerns influenced the musicians of the time and now musicians are influencing the genre. Now, this music is informing the film and the Western. It’s the full circle.”
The Harder They Fall peaked at #2 on Netflix’s Global Top 10 chart for November 1 to November 7. That same week saw the critically-acclaimed motion picture top Netflix’s Top 10 chart for the United States by bumping Army of Thieves to #2.
Chicago rhymer Polo G is back with 14 additional tracks for his #1 album Hall of Fame. The deluxe version of the project arrived on Friday, December 3.
The original Hall of Fame debuted atop the Billboard 200 chart in June by earning 143,000 first-week units. It became the 22-year-old rapper’s first No. 1 album of his career.
The Recording Industry Association of America certified the Hall of Fame album as Gold (500,000 units) on July 1. 2019’s Die a Legend and 2020’s The Goat have already reached Platinum status.
Polo G’s “Rapstar” spent two weeks at #1 on Billboard‘s Hot 100 chart. The Hall of Fame single is currently certified 3x-Platinum by the RIAA.
In addition, Polo G launched his “Hall of Fame Tour” in Cincinnati on October 8. He is scheduled to perform in his hometown of Chicago tonight (December 3) at the Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom.
The 2021 Atlanta mayoral race is officially over, but a political fight in the city is still playing out. City Council President Felicia Moore partially blamed Hip Hop recording artist Clifford “T.I.” Harris for her loss in the election.
“T.I. put out a very salacious lie, just point-blank lie and misinformation, saying I wanted to close strip clubs. I never even discussed strip clubs since the general election,” said Felicia Moore.
Yesterday, T.I. responded to Felicia Moore with an Instagram video. The Grand Hustle founder expressed that the “creatives” of Atlanta run the town, and he argued that Moore is not fit to be the mayor of Georgia’s capital.
“I wish her the best, and I hope she finds a position that she’s better suited for, but it was not this,” stated T.I. about Moore’s ambitions to be mayor. “It simply was not. You were out of touch.”
T.I. also got some backing from another 2021 candidate and former Atlanta mayor. TMZ caught up with Kasim Reed to ask him about Felicia Moore claiming celebrities such as T.I. and Isaac Hayes III cost her the mayorship.
“I just think you have to trust the voters. The election wasn’t even close, the margin was so great. T.I.’s voice is important, so is Isaac Hayes’s voice,” answered Kasim Reed.
He continued, “But at the end of the day, I think the voters picked who they wanted to be the next mayor, and congratulations to Councilman [Andre] Dickens on his win.”
Andre Dickens defeated Felicia Moore in the November 30 run-off election by a 63.7% to 36.3% margin. Kasim Reed only managed to secure 22.4% of the ballots in the first round of voting on November 2 before being eliminated from the race.
Fans of NBA YoungBoy were left confused when all the rapper’s videos were suddenly removed from YouTube.
As the channel’s most viewed U.S artist with a following of over 10 million subscribers, his absence made little sense to his fans who couldn’t understand why the channel was purged of all its videos.
One of the popular rumors anticipated something big on the way from YoungBoy. Speculation suggested it could be his upcoming mixtape With Birdman. “From the Bayou” had an expected release date of December 3. Birdman confirmed this sharing the release date and artwork on social media.
The Cash Money Records boss took to Instagram to announce, “FROM THA BAYOU #STUNNA and TOP this FRIDAY 12/3 NEVA BROKE AGAIN #RICHGANG 🦅🐊”
Now, NBA YoungBoy has dropped a song and video from the project, though the mixtape is yet to be released. “Heart & Soul / Alligator Walk” appeared on YouTube last night and has amassed over a million views already.
The mixtape was slated for a midnight release however, at the time of going to press, it is yet to materialize. Birdman teased the tracklist via social media on Thursday and confirmed fans would have the tape as scheduled.
He added, “When that lil’ boy get his mind right and he comes from under this bulls*ht and understands who he is, you know, Thug and all them, they’re up in age, they’re 30, this n*gga 20. And you put a n*gga behind the wall, they become smart.”
In the meantime, while fans are waiting for the collaboration for YoungBoy and Birdman to drop, they can watch the new video.
The year 2021 is coming to an end with an online beef between Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and Madonna. The two celebrities went back and forth on social media on Thursday.
50 Cent’s latest troll attack took aim at the legendary Queen of Pop. The Queens-bred Hip Hop mogul clowned Madonna for an Instagram photo of her wearing fishnet stockings.
“👀 Yo this is the funniest s###! LOL. 😆That’s Madonna under the bed trying to do like a virgin at 63. She shot out if she don’t get her old ass up. LMFAO😆😆😆😆,” wrote 50 Cent on IG.
Madonna then fired back at 50 Cent on her own Instagram Story. The 7-time Grammy winner uploaded a picture of herself with 50. The caption called out the G-Unit boss for being a fake friend.
“Here is 50 Cent pretending to be my friend. Now you decided to talk smack about me!” posted Madonna. “I guess your new career Is getting attention by trying to humiliate others on social media.”
She continued, “The least elevated choice you could make as an artist and an adult. [You’re] just jealous you won’t look as good as me or have as much fun when you are my age! Too bad there are no sour grapes [emojis] 😖 @50Cent.”
Madonna’s Instagram message led to 50 Cent responding to her on Twitter. 50 even offered an apology for his original IG post which has since been deleted from his account.
“👀 I must have hurt Madonna feelings, she went and dug up [an] old MTV photo from 03🤷🏽♂️. Ok I’m sorry I did not intend to hurt your feelings. I don’t benefit from this in [any way]. I said what I thought when I saw the picture because of where I had seen it before. I hope you accept my apology,” tweeted 50 Cent.
The Verzuz battle between Bone Thugs-N-Harmony and Three 6 Mafia got a little fractious as water bottles were thrown and a scuffle broke out on stage last night (Dec. 2).
Bone Thugs did not take kindly to Three 6 mocking them as they were performing and the groups began hurling insults and then water bottles at each other. Though the situation escalated quickly, security intervened immediately and the competition resumed after a brief intermission. Thankfully, the groups patched things up as they came back out and Bizzy apologized.
Bizzy Bone Apologizes
Now, Bizzy Bone has taken to Instagram to double down on the apology and explain why he got so heated during the Verzuz battle.
“I feel as a man there is a time to apologize and be the bigger person. Even if you do not feel wrong,” he wrote. “@melyssa_lp @triller @verzuztv thank you for everything. But when u a man you understand there is a time to be the bigger person. Mistakes will be made. This is Hip Hop , if we was posed to be perfect then we wouldn’t even be here.”
He mentioned Verzuz co-founder Swizz Beats specifically and said, “Swizz needed to be called and spoken to as well, even though he told me it was ok. Ol beautiful n####.”
He continued, “When i got back on stage i meant what i said. I really hope you guys understand my passion for music and my seriousness about GOD. I really believe in what i say. Im a artist. I came back because i know a lot of people depended on me.”
Fortunately, the issues were smoothed over and the Verzuz was able to continue. After taking responsibility, the Bone Thugs rapper acknowledged, “It was not scripted but it ended perfect. A toast to Hip Hop. Sht gets a lil crazy sometimes. @juicyj @djpaulkom @missyeahoe @realcrunchyblack #ripkoopstanicca #riplordinfamous hopefully i gave you enough hell to know what HEAVEN can be like. You guys did a HECK of a job and embracing me after that took class as well. This is real. I am real. God bless you all.”
Swizz Beats Rants In The Comments Throughout the Verzuz
Swizz Beats went through a range of emotions before and during the Verzuz, taking to the comment section to address the lack of professionalism on camera and behind the scenes.
Creating a successful career in the music industry calls for passion and love for the craft. It is a competitive and challenging journey, not for the faint-hearted; one must be determined and resilient enough to overcome all the challenges that might come their way to emerge successfully. Some well-established mainstream artists say that their passion and love for the industry helped them remain resilient, especially in the early days.
Statistically, there are many more botched music dreams than success stories. Many desire the music lifestyle, but only a few have the ‘calling.’ It takes something special for someone to drop a thriving career to return to pursue their music dreams. Though cases like this are few and far between, they do exist, and Taylan is an example.
Taylan is a talented up-and-coming artist, songwriter, and producer in the US with a unique and refreshing sound. He is known for his bold electronic music that’s crazy, sexy, elegant, and nostalgic. Taylan is also gaining massive traction on various music streaming platforms with over 25,000 monthly Spotify listeners. He recently signed with Steyoyoke Recordings and Space Tale Records for his upcoming tracks, which he believes will help cement his position in the industry.
Unbeknown to many, Taylan is a certified surgeon with years of experience in practice. He had been practicing medicine for years before choosing to take the leap and return to his childhood love of music. He had been drawn to music from a young age, and he would try to make mash-ups of songs without even having the proper equipment. They all ended up sounding ‘silly,’ but Taylan would listen to them for days on end. At the time, he was his number one fan, and he was also DJing small parties around Los Angeles.
Taylan later transitioned and started playing at parties and clubs where he often got fired for playing some of his tunes, as electronic music wasn’t popular in the area yet. Finally, he got a break after a couple of club owners saw him perform at a small house party and were intrigued by the sound. They offered him a job for Monday nights, their slowest night. As expected, there were only about 20 people at the club the first night, most of whom were Taylan’s friends, but the line was around the block after two months. He became a sensation. He was attending USC grad school then, and needless to say, he missed most of his Tuesday morning classes.
It was after graduation that he dropped his music passion for a career in the medical world. But after years of absence from the music scene, Taylan is making a comeback as an even stronger artist; he has already hit the ground running with numerous hits to his name.Taylan is currently collaborating with a few talented artists, and he’s keen on collaborating with others like Kamilo Sanclemente, Miss Monique Stan Kolev, and Hannes Bieger. His long-term goal is to collaborate with Nora En Pure and sign with Purified Records and Armada Music. He now aspires to play at major events and festivals such as Tomorrowland and Ultra Music Festival, and it’s only a matter of time before he makes this dream a reality.
