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Trav Talks Moving Past Beef With 50 Cent, Working With Tory Lanez, Meek Mill And More

By: Shirley JuCategory: Features

If 50 Cent posts you, you must be doing something right, right?

The G-Unit rapper shared a photo of New York artist Trav to his 25.4 million followers on Instagram, dragging him with the caption: “This guy is not a tuff guy, he is a good kid trying to make music. I’m sorry it didn’t work for him and his big brother, I hope they can figure something out.

Trav has been making music for years, and actually used to hang with 50 Cent. Trav’s older brother had a tight bond with the “In Da Club” rapper, which led to their close association with 50’s famed G-Unit collective.

Fast forward some years, Trav wanted to focus on his artistry.

But a long-standing beef with Rick Ross, and Trav’s tight relationship with Meek Mill, who is part of Rozay’s Maybach Music empire, are among the issues that have put a strain on Trav’s relationship with the G-Unit general.

Trav is currently under management with Sal, who manages The Weeknd.

AllHipHop caught up with the EMPIRE Records signee to discuss what exactly went down with 50, as well as his own plans for a successful solo career.

AllHipHop: You’re in New York amidst the COVID-19. You staying safe?

Trav: Yeah, I’m good. I mean, I’ve survived worse. I hope I survive. [chuckles]

AllHipHop: Being from Queen, NY, what was your upbringing like?

Trav: It wasn’t the greatest, but I was raised in the heart of Jamaica, Queens with 2 immigrant parents from Jamaica. It turned out alright I guess, I’m here now.

AllHipHop: At what point did music become real for you?

Trav: I loved music because my uncle used to make music, but it wasn’t hip-hop how I make hip-hop. They make reggae music. I got introduced to really the lifestyle of hip-hop, really seeing what hip-hop could do for an artist when my brother started to co-manage 50 [Cent].

AllHipHop: That’s how your relationship with 50 developed?

Trav: Yeah, I was the youngest one around out of everybody. When 50 came out, I was 13 years old going on tour.

AllHipHop: What were you doing on tour?

Trav: It was crazy. 50 and them had got on, he ended up getting crib right there where Yayo, Banks, and them had a condo. Right there on 333 Rector Place, across from the Twin Towers. Every weekend after school, I’d take car service. Because they didn’t want me in the hood, they knew I’d get into a lot of trouble when they weren’t around. They weren’t really understanding the pressure of being the young one around. I go to school, then I could be at 106 & Park. You feel me?

They didn’t understand the pressure for me being so young around them. It was real stuff going on. I was still in school, I was in high school. To keep me out of trouble from going to little hood parties, they’d have me come to the house. Every weekend, get out of the hood. One day, it was a Sunday. Every Sunday, I’m supposed to go home because school’s on Monday. I just stayed. I got on a tour bus. My moms called, I was in Ohio. [chuckles] She’s like “where are you?” I said “ma, I’m on the tour bus. This bus is not turning around.” I fell in love with the life. This is what I was already doing, this is what I was made to do.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAdL1_f1MSQ

AllHipHop: So what happened recently?

Trav: To be honest, that ‘s something I never spoke about. Recently, I don’t know what really hit him. I guess me and the producer Young Chop coming into Live, and we’re having an argument. The kid that’s going crazy online. He came into my Live out of nowhere, he’s like “I respect you, but your man Meek is a cop.” Some crazy s##t like that. He tried to disrespect my man, dumb s##t. I don’t know what he was trying to get at ,but he knew he’d never say no s##t to me like that in my face. Some troll s##t.

AllHipHop: Were you guys tight?

Trav: I don’t know that guy for nothing. 50 ended up seeing the recording of that Live. In that Live, the only thing he could’ve said was “damn you coming at Meek, but you ain’t coming at 50.” If you really know me, you wouldn’t even be speaking no s##t like that. Because I’ll come at you and him. I don’t have no picks, I don’t pick and choose. Somebody disrespect me, I’m coming. I wasn’t raised — I’m not getting bullied by nobody.

This was lingering. This is from f##king 7 years ago when me and him got into that s##t on stage. A lot of people never knew, like “why the f##k did that just happen?” They didn’t know what happened. Something on the internet, nobody knew. Nobody ever spoke on it. I left it like that because at the time, I looked at it as family. For him to antagonize it right on his page like I’m this good kid, is cap. That’s cap. You know me. I’m the good kid who did everything he never did. He rapped about my life, you rapped about the s##t we did. To be clear, I never said anything because I’m living my life. I have new music out, a song with Tory Lanez called “You Choose.” I’m not focused on what people are doing, nobody’s worried about that.

AllHipHop: What made 50 post that photo of you?

Trav: I really don’t know. I think he was trying to be funny. I never would’ve went crazy… once he put me up, I went crazy because I had to defend myself. But I would’ve never went Live and stated anything if he took it down at 8 o’clock. He tried to be funny and took it down at 8:05pm.

AllHipHop: What’s the significance in 8pm?

Trav: Because 8pm was when I was going Live. Alright, here’s the thing. If I was your homegirl, we’re bros. We’re homies right, you should never try to disrespect your friends in public, then apologize behind closed doors. That doesn’t work. I don’t think that works on any levels. It was to the point I was tired of it. Even when I went Live at 8 o’clock and everybody’s saying “yo he took it down,” it’s 8:05pm bro. Stop playing. If nobody likes to stand up, I’ma stand up. I’m not one of them. I’m going to stand up for myself.

AllHipHop: Have you guys talked at all?

Trav: No. What’s there to talk about? I moved on. What I was saying, I’ve moved on from him. The questions they ask me, they should ask him. “How’s the people around you doing bro?” That’s the question you should ask.

AllHipHop: Do you foresee this getting worse?

Trav: I’m with whatever, but I’m really focused on what I got going on. That s##t’s like beating on a f##king dead horse. He knows me for real. All the peace he’s given is because he doesn’t have anybody around him. He has to get peace. He has to give nothing but peace to everybody. Everybody you ever disrespected, you have to give peace to because you’re lonely. You’re going to have to pay police, real security. You don’t have the guys you have from the neighborhood with no money involved, and they’ll risk their life. Freedom, you don’t have that any more. The love is gone, he destroyed it. Bad leader.

AllHipHop: I mean, he did just get a Hollywood star though.

Trav: Nah, let me explain something to you. Outside of somebody being a successful artist, I learned a lot from him. But that doesn’t change somebody’s ways. R. Kelly is one of the greatest R&B artists in the world, that doesn’t change his way. If he actually did the s##t… you get what I’m saying? Let me ask you a question, who’s your favorite artist?

AllHipHop: I really been on G Herbo’s album that just dropped.

Trav: Cool, I really f##k with G Herbo. You know what type of person is because he’s so social right? Suppose he wasn’t a social guy and somebody said he’s a deadbeat. You’d be like “no, he loves his son.” Does that take away from his music? If you actually think about the person you’re talking about, that’s all I’m saying. I’m speaking on what’s real.

I understand he has a star. He has 10 million records, Diamond. I’m not taking anything away from that. I’m not here to discuss him truthfully. I don’t care about him. He posted me up, I had to expose the real. He can’t be mad. The greatest thing I’m happy he did say was that I make tough music. I make good music, because then I’d have to expose something else.

AllHipHop: 50 being 50, did he influence your artistry at all? Did you learn from him?

Trav: The greatest thing is we learned things from each other. Because I did learn. If you learn from somebody, then somebody starts learning from you. Which is crazy, isn’t it?

AllHipHop: How’d you link with Tory Lanez on “You Choose”?

Trav: Tory’s the bro man. That’s my f##king brother, from another. Me and Tory ended up doing 2 or 3 records. That one stuck out the most for real. We had another one that had a Lil Boosie vibe, that he redid. The Boosie and Webbie vibe he’s really f##king with. This one was speaking out a bit more to me, felt more of a vibe. We flew back to Miami to shoot the video.

AllHipHop: Who inspired the record? You got a lady in your life?

Trav: Ladies inspired the record. I’m definitely quarantined with my lady right now.

AllHipHop: How do you know Meek Mill?

Trav: I knew Meek for years. I met Meek from when he was a hot battle rapper. The braids Meek. If you remember, one time 50 went to Philly. This is the other thing, I know all these artists. I’ve even brought J Cole to the house, before anybody ever heard. Any time I’d go to Philly, I’d hit Meek “yo, I’m coming to Philly.” “Pull up on me.” We locked in like that. He used to come to Queens, just become family. Come to his house, he came to my house. We met when he had the braids though.

AllHipHop: How did you find your way to Sal (The Weeknd management)?

Trav: Cash and Sal, they’ve been my family for years. A lot of people don’t know that Belly was shaking before The Weekend. When Belly first came to NY, he’s tuned in with us. He’s on some street s##t but f##king with us. Our relationship always been strong. Through the years, Belly would always give me advice. Cash and Sal would always give me advice. They never really knew my situation.

Again a lot of people would see me and think “oh you still with 50,” because I’d never speak on it. They thought I’m out here by myself. I’m doing my thing out here on my own. They started seeing me work, seeing my progression. We sat down: me, Cash, and Sal ended up putting it together. The rest was history. I did the song with Nav and went on tour.

AllHipHop: What was the best memory on tour?

Trav: I went to Chicago, this was last tour. I didn’t know my fanbase there was actually tuned in. Chicago and St. Louis when we went, they were crazy. They went crazy.

AllHipHop: What are some goals for yourself as an artist at this point in your career?

Trav: An empire that doesn’t fold. I’m learning from others’ mistakes. I want a real legacy to be left, to be honest.

AllHipHop: Who’s in your Top 5?

Trav: J. Cole, Tupac, Biggie, Nas. God bless the dead, Prodigy. Prodigy and DMX would be battling. Because X was really my dog, he got me through some rough times. People don’t understand music, I didn’t understand music until I started to make music. I was able to express myself like “oh, this is what the f##k it is.”

AllHipHop: What can we expect next?

Trav: Expect nothing but bangers. Video out now: “You Choose” with the man Tory Lanez. I’m going to drop this song called “Streets Still Love Me” and touch the streets. Give a message to all the trenches. Anybody from the slums, from the bottom who can relate to real s##t. There’s a clear message.

AllHipHop: Are you going to expand more than R&B bangers?

Trav: Oh no, I got banger bangers. If I’m going to do a record with an artist, I want something that fits both of us. My side of how I am when it comes to the ladies and they can give their side. I got some bangers, nothing but bangers. On my project right now, I got Slime on there. I put together a whole project, definitely on the way. It’s time for it right now.

Jimmy Bolt Taps Lil Keed For “Wolves”

By: Shirley JuCategory: Music

Jimmy Bolt is back with a brand new single titled “Wolves,” this time tapping Atlanta’s newest superstar Lil Keed. 

Hailing from Houston, the 21-year-old describes the inspiration behind this record as his journey as an up and coming, independent artist trying to make it.

When it comes to his creativity, Bolt admits his biggest challenge to be discovering his sound and which direction he wants to go when it comes to his music. 

His ability to both sing and rap stems from Bolt’s father whom is the reason he loves music to this day. He fondly remembers listening to legendary artists such as Anita Baker and Otis Redding in the household growing up. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-IunNxBqXK

Soon, he’d fall in love with hip-hop — a genre of music he’d have to sneak off to listen to because he wasn’t allowed.

Jimmy returns after a 3-year hiatus from music, fueled by real-life experiences and obstacles he had to overcome. 

In 2016, he lost his sisters and 5 days later, his dad passed away also. 

While losing family members is never easy, Bolt states it taught him how to “react in times of the unexpected” and remain the strong person he’s always been.

Last year, Bolt released his online clothing brand called YAZY, premiered with his latest single by the same name “YAZY.” 

The new collab with Lil Keed “Wolves” arrives with a bold, neon lit cover art depicting his own face alongside Keed’s. “Wolves” is a tribute to his crew and the real ones in his life.

Shoreline Mafia, Fans Mourn The Murder Of Mac P Dawg

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

(AllHipHop News) After hours of waiting, uncertainty remains.

Fans from all over are awaiting official confirmation on whether or not Los Angeles rapper Mac P Dawg was murdered.

News of his death arrived with sadness when friends started paying tribute on their social media platforms for the fallen soldier.

No Jumper founder, Adam Grandmaison was one of the first to speak on the “death” of his artist on Twitter.

@adam22 stated that “Shoreline Mafia associate Mac P Dawg was gunned down in LA tonight. Rest In Peace.”

Group member Ohgeesy hit the ‘Gram to give his remarks with a caption the read, “LUV U FOREVER, JOSHYWORLD”

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A post shared by OHGEESY. (@ohgeesy)

While his words were short, the image was powerful and gushed with a true glimpse into their brotherhood.

As Mac lights a smoke, fire cupped in his hand, it is almost as he was serving as a foundation to Ohgeesy, either carrying him on his back like a real brother is supposed to do —with Ohgeesy simultaneously sharing that he will always have his guy’s back.

It is all very heartbreaking as he was so young – just 24 – and full of promise at the very beginning of his journey — remarkably as tragic as the recent loss of Pop Smoke just a few years his junior.

Former Shoreline Mafia member Fenix Flexin posted an image on IG saying: speechless bro love u always, macpforever

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-q4Lczg9yW

And even followed up with a heart-felt Insta-story. There he wrote over an image of his bro in some Jordans, a white Tee-shirt and adorning outspread angel wings, “Ima make u mo then proud I know you right here w me I can feel yo energy even tho u gon yo energy gon live thru me 4 ever.”

There has been no word from the Los Angeles Police Department surrounding the alleged shooting that is rumored to have taken his life.

Read AllHipHop.com’s exclusive Q&A with Mac P Dawg from June of 2019. 

Fetty Wap Sued For Punching A Woman In The Face And Choking Her

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

(AllHipHop News) Newark’s own Fetty Wap, the sing-songy rapper that dominated the charts in 2014 and 2015, is being sued by a young lady who alleges that he beat her up while she was over at his house in Los Angeles last June.

The unnamed woman claims that Fetty punched her in her face and strangled her during the assault. She also said that he threatened to kill her.

Her complaint claims that “during the course of the night, Fetty Wap consumed numerous alcoholic beverages culminating with (Fetty) drinking tequila directly from the bottle.”

The liquor allegedly made Fetty Wap become aggressive for no reason and started getting physical with a variety of people at the party, including the woman who was beaten.

Fetty keeps getting mangled in violent allegations.

Last fall Fetty Wap was arrested on suspicion of assaulting three employees at a Las Vegas Strip hotel-casino called The Mirage.

Those charges were dropped, as was a lawsuit against the rap star for allegedly beating up a girl inside of a mansion in the Hollywood Hills during an altercation in June of 2019. 

EXCLUSIVE: Judge Denies R. Kelly’s Freedom Despite Fear Of Death

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: Exclusives

(AllHipHop News) R. Kelly can forget about getting a taste of freedom any time soon.

That’s because a judge just shot down the jailed singer’s attempt to get out of the MCC prison in Chicago, over his fear of catching the coronavirus.

R. Kelly’s lawyer Steve Greenberg insisted his client was languishing in prison as he awaits trial for racketeering, for allegedly overseeing a sex enterprise that exploited teenaged girls and women.

R. Kelly claimed he was at a high risk of catching the coronavirus because of the unsanitary conditions inside of the jail, where he said it was “impossible” to practice social distancing.

To make matters worse, the 53-year-old is still trying to recover from a hernia operation he underwent behind bars in January of 2020.

United States District Judge Ann M. Donnelly acknowledged R. Kelly’s justifiable concerns for his health, but the fear of God was not enough to get the “I Believe I Can Fly” singer uncaged, especially since there have been no cases of COVID-19 at MCC.

“While I am sympathetic to the defendant’s understandable anxiety about COVID-19, he has not established compelling reasons warranting his release. At present, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 at the MCC in Chicago,” Judge Donnelly said.

The judge also told R. Kelly to forget about using his hernia operation as an excuse to argue he is at a higher risk of contracting the deadly disease.

“Although the defendant has had surgery during his incarceration, he does not explain how his surgical history places him at a higher risk of severe illness,” Judge Donnelly wrote.

And most importantly R. Kelly could attempt to threaten the witnesses in his case or even worse, simply vanish if he is released back into the population, pandemic or not.

“The defendant here has not demonstrated an analogous change in circumstances that would alter the Court’s conclusion that he is a flight risk and that he poses danger to the community, particularly to prospective witnesses,” Judge Donnelly ruled as she denied the singer’s motion for release. 

Megan Thee Stallion Donates Supplies To Houston Nursing Facility

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

(AllHipHop News) Megan Thee Stallion is giving back to her hometown during the current  COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. The “Savage” performer took to Instagram to announce a philanthropic partnership with Amazon Music.

“Hey hotties I partnered w/ @amazonmusic 2 support Park Manor Skilled Nursing Facility in Houston Texas [It’s] so important to #stayhome!” wrote Megan in the caption of her IG video post. 

According to Thee Stallion, she is donating supplies and money for the residents and staff at Park Manor. A contribution of Amazon Fire tablets will also help the senior citizens contact their loved ones that are practicing self-distancing.

Several Hip Hop representatives have taken charitable action during the coronavirus outbreak which has shut down large sections of the entire world. Jay-Z, Meek Mill, Kanye West, Cardi B, Ludacris, Quality Control Music, Lecrae, and others have committed to assisting individuals and communities affected by COVID-19.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-pYliulB85

Audiomack Announces Rod Wave As Its First #UPNow Emerging Artist

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

(AllHipHop News) The music streaming platform known as Audiomack launched a new emerging artist program called #UPNow. Rising St. Petersburg, Florida rapper Rod Wave is the first selection for the campaign.

“Coming from where I come from, we don’t take support for granted. Audiomack has been helping me get my music out there from the very beginning before people really knew who I was. Continuing to work together with them is part of staying true to my core fans as I take the next step of the journey,” says Rod.

Audiomack Senior Director of Marketing & Brand Strategy, Jason Johnson adds, “Rod embodies #UpNow. He’s already proven himself as a formidable voice, and we’re excited to amplify that voice as much as possible.”

Rod Wave appears on the cover of Audiomack’s #UpNow playlist. The Pray 4 Love album creator already amassed over 300 million plays and clinched a spot in the Top 5 “Most Searched Artists” for the past five months on the platform. 

A minimum of three artists per quarter across all genres will be chosen for #UpNow. Each act will receive specialized marketing, editorial programming, social promotion, playlisting, custom videos, and experiential events.

“For the last seven years, Audiomack has been a music discovery platform for emerging artists to connect directly to their fans and promote their music globally,” says Johnson. “We worked with some of the top global superstars earlier in their careers such as Chance The Rapper, Migos, and A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, to name a few where we provided them trending, playlisting, content, and marketing support before other DSPs.”

He continues, “As we grow as a streaming platform servicing artists at all levels, we will continue to be an incubator for emerging talent and a place for fans to discover the next big superstar. What’s up next in culture is actually what’s #UPNow on Audiomack.” 

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The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” Remains At No. 1 On The Hot 100 For A Second Week

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

(AllHipHop News) Last week, The Weeknd ended Roddy Ricch’s 11-chart winning streak atop the Hot 100. The Canadian singer-songwriter’s “Blinding Lights” remained at #1 for the second straight week.

The Weeknd also has the top-charting album in the country right now. After Hours controls the pole position on the Billboard 200 for two tallies in a row. That LP brought in another 138,000 units in week two.

“The Box” holds onto the #2 spot on the Hot 100. Post Malone’s “Circles” jumps back up to #4. Future & Drake’s “Life Is Good” (#5), Doja Cat’s “Say So” (#7), and Justin Bieber & Quavo’s “Intentions” (#8) live in the Top 10 region too.

“Blinding Lights” is facing tough competition for the leader of next week’s Hot 100 chart from Drake’s new single “Toosie Slide.” The Toronto rapper’s dance challenge-inspired track is already #1 on both Spotify and Apple Music’s daily U.S. streaming charts.

Lupe Fiasco Blasts Atlantic Records Executives & Lyor Cohen During Conversation With Joe Budden

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

(AllHipHop News) Joe Budden was on an anti-label crusade for years. The emcee-turned-podcaster admitted to once being bitter about his treatment while signed to Def Jam as a soloist and Eminem’s Shady Records as a member of Slaughterhouse.

Lupe Fiasco is another Hip Hop artist that struggled with the major company that was funding his music. His battle with Atlantic Records included fans protesting in support of the Lasers album and the hacktivist group Anonymous allegedly forcing the release of the Tetsuo and Youth album.

Budden and Fiasco connected for a conversation on Instagram Live. Part of the discussion focused on both rappers’ respective issues with the music industry. Budden was adamant that he and Lupe’s reputations were damaged by the powers that be.

Lupe said he had to “fight the good fight” during the time period after the release of The Cool album and his contractual separation from Atlantic. The “Hip-Hop Saved My Life” rapper blasted some Atlantic executives while recognizing the contributions of others.

“My only beef at Atlantic Records has always only been with three people – Craig Kallman, Mike Caren, and Mike Kyser,” stated Lupe. “The rest of the building – beautiful. Julie Greenwald is an amazing executive and in some cases a wonderful person. Very supportive. Marsha [St. Hubert] is amazing. The whole staff.”

The 38-year-old 1st and 15th Entertainment head went on to talk about how he still feels the need to “sh*t on” the people “that’s f*cking the game up” without being called bitter. He specifically called out former Warner Music Group CEO and current YouTube Global Head of Music Lyor Cohen.

“If you really, truly want to change the business… you gotta point out people that ain’t sh*t, that’s hiding behind the success of other people, that’s really f*cking the game up, are really the reason that the game is f*cked up,” declared Fiasco. 

The Chicago spitter continued, “Lyor is a big part of the game being f*cked up and how n*ggas move and how n*ggas are getting f*cked over. They don’t really give a f*ck about the well being of the artist. When are they? And what’s going to make them do that?”

Again, Lupe made it clear he did not have a problem with every higher-up in the music business. He even credited some of the success in his career to his relationship with Atlantic.

“When I say Atlantic Records, I say Craig Kallman, Mike Caren, Mike Kyser. I don’t say the whole f*cking building when it’s time to really break it down and get into the nitty-gritty of the conversation of who did what, as well as Lyor Cohen,” explained Lupe.

The Midwesterner born Wasalu Muhammad Jaco added, “I’m not throwing the whole f*cking building under the bus. My picture is still up there on the wall. For good reason. You bring 14 Grammy nominations and a Grammy into the building and you sell three, four, five million records.”

Plus, Lupe Fiasco accused Kallman of telling a radio station to stop playing “Kick, Push” out of spite for not having an equity stake in the single. He then told the story of Atlantic executives supposedly purchasing Celeste Legaspi’s original master recording that was used for Lupe’s breakout hit.

“You know what they did? They flew down to the Philippines to find the woman who we sampled the record from and bought the entire record from her,” Fiasco told Budden. “They actually own the song that ‘Kick, Push’ is sampled from. That’s what they did.” 

Lupe also conceded, “It’s genius. On some gangsta sh*t, Atlantic doesn’t double-dip. They triple-dip. It’s f*cking genius. It’s cold-blooded… I’m from the streets. I’m a streets n*gga for real. The sh*t’s genius. Grow it, sell it, and own the pawnshop that’s n*ggas is stealing the TVs and selling it back to you. Genius.” 

Cardi B’s ‘Invasion Of Privacy’ Becomes First Debut Female Rap Album To Spend 2 Years On The Billboard 200

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

(AllHipHop News) Cardi B released her first studio album, Invasion of Privacy, on April 6, 2018. Two years later, the critically-acclaimed body of work still remains on the Billboard 200. 

Invasion of Privacy is now the first debut album by a female rapper to spend at least two full years on the chart. It currently sits at #86 on the most recent Billboard rankings of album unit sales. 

Yesterday, #2YearsofIOP was trending on Twitter as the Bardi Gang celebrated the project’s two-year anniversary. Cardi commemorated her firstborn musical “baby” on social media as well.

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A post shared by Cardi B (@iamcardib)

“Happy Birthday Miss INVASION OF PRIVACY. My first baby. [I’m] [working] on her sister so I can birth her this year. Thank you everybody who support and still supports my album. Till this day is charting on Billboards 200,” wrote Cardi on Instagram.

Cardi’s breakout LP is currently certified 3-time Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America. Every song on IOP has been certified Gold or Platinum. “Bodak Yellow” (9x Platinum) and “I Like It” with Bad Bunny & J Balvin (8x Platinum) are on the road to Diamond status.

Invasion of Privacy made history when it became the first album by a solo woman to win the Grammy Award for Best Rap Album. At the time of its release, IOP also collected the most audio streams ever in a single week by a female artist. It is now the most-streamed female rap album of all-time on Spotify. 

Drake Claims He Didn’t Know “Toosie Slide” Would Be A Dance Song

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

(AllHipHop News) Drake is now in full promotional mode. After releasing his latest TikTok-ready single, “Toosie Slide,” the OVO megastar has shown up on several other users’ Instagram Live broadcasts.

Over the weekend, Drake linked up with former rival Joe Budden on the podcaster’s IG Live. Last night, OVO Mark’s Instagram account featured another Drizzy sighting.

Drake discussed “Toosie Slide” during the virtual meet-up with OVO Mark. However, the Grammy winner seemed to contradict what social media influencer/dancer Toosie said in a recent interview.

“Shout out to Toosie because when I first made that song I was only talking about The Moonwalk,” said Drake during the Live. “But Toosie made a dance to that sh*t. So it’s popping now. I didn’t know it was going to be a dance song like that. But it is what it is.”

Previously, Toosie stated that Drake personally requested that he create specific choreography for the track. The Atlanta area dancer said, “Drake hit me up and was like, ‘Yo, I need your help.'”

Toosie also added, “So he sends the record. It was just an idea at the time. It was just the hook and a verse. I came up with this dance. [Drake said,] ‘What you think? You think you can come up with a dance for this song that I made?’”

In addition, Toosie insisted that he had “receipts” in the form of text messages from Drake that confirm the interaction about creating a clear-cut dance associated with “Toosie Slide,” seemingly to tap into the ongoing TikTok craze. The Chinese video-sharing service became a launching pad for successful records thanks to dance challenges that go viral on the platform.

Fred The Godson Tests Positive For Coronavirus

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

(AllHipHop News) As of press time, over 360,000 people in the United States have contracted the COVID-19 coronavirus. Several celebrities are among those individuals that have tested positive.

New York rapper Fred The Godson revealed he is currently fighting disease. On April 6, he tweeted, “I’m in here with this COVID-19 sh*t! Please keep me in y’all prayers!!! #GodIsGreat.”

The Twitter message included a photo of Fred The Godson with a breathing apparatus over his face. The 2011 XXL Freshmen Class member has not provided an update since posting the tweet.

#FreeJuelzSantana Campaign Started Amidst Coronavirus Pandemic

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

(AllHipHop News) There are a lot of entertainers trying to get out of jail amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and depending on whom you ask, the consensus is that they could/could’ve stayed right where the judge left them.

But then there are others… like Dipset Lieutenant, Juelz Santana…

For this emcee, there seems to be an overwhelmingly wave of support wanting him to be released.

And instead of only going through the traditional means of submitting the request through the courts, his friends, and family have set up through change.org petition to see if public support can help persuade authorities to let him out.

The father of two, the husband and beloved Harlemite was locked up after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm and controlled dangerous substance after getting caught with a gun going through a TSA checkpoint at Newark Liberty Airport in March of 2018.

For these crimes, Juelz Santana has been serving his two-year prison sentence, which started at the beginning of March 2019.

Having served a year of his term, his Dipset brother Jim Jones has taken to IG to make fans aware of the #FreeJuelzSantana campaign and how they can bring him home… if for no other reason than he could possibly be in danger of contracting the virus while incarcerated.

El Capo posted the link and captioned on IG, “Let a real one out early we can use everybody’s help to bring #KingJuelz back home to his wife and kids his family the James family”

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The petition is simple. It says:

“#FreeJuelzSantana AKA Laron James needs to be freed during this pandemic to be with his family. He is currently on lockdown for 2 weeks because of the COVID 19 virus outbreak. He has served 13 months at FCI Petersburg and should be allowed to serve the rest of his sentence on home confinement. BOP & Honorable Judge Chesler can make this happen for Laron. He is a good husband, father, son, brother, friend and has a positive media influence as a legendary rap artist. We need you to sign this petition to get Laron James aka Juelz Santana home.”

Fans are encouraged to click here and sign the petition that will be made available to the proper authorities after their goal is met.

While Jim’s motives are pure for his brother, the caption is drenched with the sting that while his brother is still behind bars, federal informant Tekashi 6ix9ine and cheese connoisseur is home on house arrest.

During his trial, Tekashi 6ix9ine spoke on Jim Jones by identifying his voice on a recording after the Dipset boss called for the rainbow-haired rapper to be super violated. 

URLtv Drops Epic East Vs. West Hip-Hop Battle In New ‘Quarantined’ Series

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

(AllHipHop News) In the new era of battle rap, the crowd is super important to the outcome of a successful event. At least, that is what the industry thought.

That was until several innovative players in the culture stepped up to figure out new ways to give fans the same fire content, while they are sheltering-in.

One of those innovators would be the cats over at the Ultimate Rap League and the new series on their app called “Quarantined.”

The first battle released last week was Tay Roc and Mike P.

Many thought because it was just a “one rounder,” the bars would be -ehh…, since the rappers were giving their all for a battle that would not yield them the hefty bags that they would get on bigger cards.

Nothing could be further from the truth. Both platinum-tongue lyricists came with blood in their eyes and victory on their minds.

This was a perfect set up for the second battle with Compton’s own Geechi Gotti and Brooklyn’s beloved, Jerry Weiss.

Like Roc and Mike P, these two didn’t come to play either.

But what did you expect? Gotti never takes a break — without giving any of the spoilers out, Gotti (like any good battle rapper) made use of some of Wess’ most recent contests and interviews.

Gotti verbally unpacks two points: Wess’ desperation to get on and his lack of discernment as a street dude. Gotti gave us classic Gotti.

Now, Jerry Wess also came to this battle with the tools in his warehouse that makes him exceptional. Slick talking.

Clever gimmicks (especially the one that looked like a stumble or flub but turned out to be just a fire set up for a dope punchline).

Style and swag— his performance reminds us that he is from the same streets that built JAY-Z, Biggie, Fabolous and Maino.

Together, the two give their fans a dose of good entertainment and reason to a) download the SMACK/URL app and b) look out for the next “Quarantined” series.

Who Tried To Ambush And Kill Young Chop?

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: Rumors

(AllHipHop Rumors) Producer turned rapper, Young Chop has a been popping off a lot lately.

It almost seems as if the coronavirus has made him extra ballzy or borderline crazy.

Evidence of how his rants while sheltering-in has gotten him in trouble can be seen in his latest video, shot apparently after an attempt had been made on his life.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWIfqmPdsqA

While riding around in an Uber in Atlanta, some unnamed shooters allegedly busted at him—crashing bullets through the car service’s window.

The Chicago rapper immediately took to his social media platform of choice, IG Live, to tell his fans about the incident, “They need to go hire some more shooters, bro.”

“Really bro? Y’all let off that many shots and ain’t hit me, bro?” Chop taunts. “And their car sped off. I can’t make this s##t up.”

In the video, you can see that the window is clearly blown out.

He also shared with his followers that he was not hit… and that it is about to get “treacherous out here.”

Chop offered to compensate the driver for the windows, asking for his CashApp to send him the bread.

The producer has been digging a hole for himself for the last week. He has been on social media shooting at rappers and influencers like Meek Mill, Gillie Da King, Queens Flip, French Montana, 21 Savage, Jay Z, French Montana, and Diddy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1lhWRvaJkc

While many are just ignoring him, some are not playing with him, even if he is shooting dice.

In a video that has surfaced on the world wide web a few days ago, Chop can be seen letting off a few rounds outside of his residence.

Someone calls the “I Don’t Like” producer’s name and he responds with a “what’s up” and a bang-bang from his own pistol.

He has said that the attempts on his life are from 21 Savage, however, there is no proof of these allegations. 

COVID-19 Victim YNW Melly Begs Judge To Release Him From Jail

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

(AllHipHop News) Suspected murderer, YNW Melly has contracted the coronavirus while awaiting his murder trial for the alleged killings of two of his friends, Anthony Williams and Christopher Thomas, Jr.

The rapper, who is rapidly deteriorating, is now asking the judge for a release to house arrest because he fears that he stays where he is, he may die inside of his cell.

According to TMZ, his lawyer Bradford Cohen filed a legal doc detailing his symptoms and asking for the court’s mercy.

Because the prison’s medical team is not on their jobs, and not checking on him every hour, his health is failing. His attorney says that currently, the 20-year-old rapper weights 114 lbs.

It has also been revealed that his celly has the disease also, and because accurate information is not adequately shared in the penal institutions (as it is not on the outside), they are afraid that the virus will be mutated and passed back and forth between the two.

Like the other prisons and thousands of civilians serving medical institutions, supplies are scarce.

“They have not given them masks, or cleaning supplies that would be beneficial regarding his recovery. This is against all recommendations of the Surgeon General and CDC.” States Cohen.

Melly is hoping that the judge is lenient and grants him the leave to stay on a specially termed house arrest. Should that happens, he says that he would pay all of his medical expenses.

Jeezy Gets Engaged To Jeannie Mai Of “The Real”

By: IllseedCategory: News

(AllHipHop News) Jeannie Mai and Jeezy went and got engaged in a quarantine. The pair have confirmed Jeezy “put a ring on it” in late March as the international pandemic swept the globe. 

“Jeannie and Jay were set for a trip to Vietnam this April. What Jeannie didn’t know is that Jay was planning to propose,” a source told People magazine. “quarantine date night in his home filled with Vietnamese food and decor.” 

The pair made their love for each other official in September of last year, but the “digital streets” started talking well before that, around January of 2019.

Jeannie was married to Freddy Harteis for 10 years of marriage before it dissolved into divorce in 2017.

Jeezy has kept his feet rooted in the culture.

The 42-year-old Georgia native released Twenty/20 Pyrex Vision late last month. 

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Will Smith Goes Into Self Isolation For New Series

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: News

(AllHipHop News) Will Smith has teamed up with Snapchat to film his own series documenting his family and others’ time in self-isolation during the coronavirus pandemic.

The new 12 episode series, “Will From Home,” launched on Snapchat on Friday (April 3rd).

The new clips feature the “Independence Day” star hanging out in his garage and home talking to his family, stars like Tyra Banks and members of the public who are also staying home due to social distancing measures.

Snapchat’s head of original content Sean Mills told The Hollywood Reporter that Will had the idea for the show as he felt creatively frustrated while cooped up at home like many other Americans.

“Will was feeling a lot of pent up creative energy and was excited to do something with it in a new and different way,” Sean says.

The actor and rapper has made shows for several online platforms including YouTube and Instagram, and also starred in Will Smith’s “Bucket List” for Facebook and will produce stand-up comedy show “This Joka” for Quibi.

He is executive producing “This Joka,” which will feature stand-up shows from on-the-rise comedians and interviews conducted by Smith, alongside his wife, Jada Pinkett Smith – who also has her own successful Facebook Watch show Red Table Talk.

Will From Home will air on Mondays, Fridays and Wednesdays. 

Vybz Kartel Loses Murder Conviction Appeal In Jamaica

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: News

(AllHipHop News) Reggae star Vybz Kartel has lost his appeal of a 2014 murder conviction.

Jamaican lawmakers upheld the original verdict and dismissed appeals from the dancehall star and his co-defendants, Shawn Campbell, Kahira Jones and Andre St. John, during a teleconference hearing in Kingston on Friday (April 3rd).

Vybz Kartel, real name Adidja Azim Palmer, and his associates were charged with the murder of Clive ‘Lizard’ Williams in 2011.

Williams’ body was never found and the co-defendants maintained their innocence throughout a 64-day trial.

Campbell and Jones were sentenced to a minimum of 25 years in prison before becoming eligible for parole while Kartel and St. John were handed a minimum of 35 years and 30 years, respectively, behind bars.

The four men appealed their convictions in 2017, citing, among other things, the impact of publicity on the fairness of the trial.

The appellate judges found no evidence to suggest publicity tainted the trial.

Vybz Kartel’s attorney has yet to respond to requests for a comment, but reports suggest his client is planning to appeal Friday’s court decision.

EXCLUSIVE: Judge Bans Tekashi 6ix9ine Affiliate From The Internet For Partying After Early Prison Release

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: Exclusives

(AllHipHop News) Tekashi 6ix9ine better learn a lesson from his old gang buddy Kooda B., who thought it was a good idea to hop on social media to celebrate after he was released from prison due to the coronavirus spreading in New York’s prisons.

Kintea “Kooda B.” McKenzie was being held at the Manhattan Correction Center as he was scheduled to be sentenced to prison on May 6th for his role in a racketeering conspiracy involving the Nine Trey Gangsta Bloods.

Like Tekashi 6ix9ine, Judge Paul Engelmayer decided to free Kooda, since he too suffers from asthma, and was afraid of catching the deadly virus,.

Kooda was allowed to come home early as he awaited sentencing for taking a shot at Chief Keef in Times Square on behalf of Tekashi 6ix9ine in June of 2018.

So after his release on March 30th, Kooda decided to hop on social media to post a video celebrating his release, which was a terrible idea.

An unknown individual also sent the NYPD footage of wild party Kooda B hosted at his house on April 1st, where men smoked weed and referred to themselves as Bloods.

Judge Paul Engelmayer took a look at the video and was far from amused. He has officially banned Kooda from social media until his sentencing date which has been pushed back until June.

“To obtain release, he had misled the Court by feigning genuine concern about contracting COVID-19, disrespected his counsel [Lisa Scolari], who with dedication and sincerity had advocated for his release, unaware that her client, once released, would behave recklessly with respect to contracting the disease,” Judge Paul Engelmayer fumed.

“[Kooda] mocked the efforts of other high-risk inmates in the MCC and elsewhere who without ulterior motives are today desperately seeking release from jail to reduce their risk of contracting this virulent disease that has killed thousands” a furious Judge Engelmayer continued.

Kooda is barred from leaving his apartment, and he cannot have any visitors to his Brooklyn apartment, except for his two brothers, his mother, and her boyfriend.

Kooda’s video pretty much guaranteed a longer sentence than the 4.5 years he was originally facing for trying to kill Chief Keef.

“Based on this dishonorable conduct, it is considering varying at sentencing above the guidelines range of 46-57 months imprisonment that the parties have agreed is applicable and from which each before this episode had agreed not to seek a variance,’ Judge Engelmayer ruled.