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Chicago Brings Unity In Hip-Hop, Twitter Brings Beef

(AllHipHop Rumors) The streets are ablaze from All-Star Weekend! The slam dunk contest showed that anything is possible! I don’t know what you all know about 50 Cent and Nas but they have a history of beefing with each other. Those days are LONG gone and they are now older and wiser. The linked up, along with “manager” Steve Stoute, to show that “Queens Still Gets The Money.” 

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A post shared by Steve Stoute (@stevestoute)

How dope is this? Now, below is something that isn’t as dope. 50 Cent talking about home he wanted to punch Meek Mill in the midst of the beef with Drake. 

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A post shared by The Shade Room (@theshaderoom)

OF COURSE Meek had to respond with a comment, suggesting he wanted some smoke. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8mxk_QpzVv

I know that 50 Cent has professed that he is not longer going to be beefing with people. It would appear that this is holding up. I hope so…we don’t need anything between Meek and Fif at this time. 

Lil Wayne And Dame Lillard Perform Before The Most Controversial Dunk Contest In NBA History

(AllHipHop News) Lil Wayne performed at the 2020 NBA All-Star Dunk Contest on Saturday night.

The Louisiana rapper took the stage alongside Portland Trail Blazers player and rapper Damian Lillard. Lillard whose rap name is Dame D.O.L.L.A., wore a “Mamba Forever” jacket in honor of the late Kobe Bryant.

He brought out Lil Wayne to perform their 2017 song “Run it Up.” “Number 8, 24, put your numbers up,” Wayne yelled to the crowd in remembrance of Bryant.

While Lillard performed on Saturday, he will not be participating in today’s NBA All-Star Game due to a groin injury.

Shortly after, DJ Khaled made an appearance and introduced the 2020 Slam Dunk competitors. With Dwayne Wade, Common, Chadwick Boseman, Scottie Pippen, and Candace Parker as judges, the contest led to a controversial ending.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGR-Qfeb88c

Aaron Gordon of the Orlando Magic and Derrick Jones Jr. of the Miami Heat went head to head as finalists.

Jones was awarded a score of 48, while Gordon earned a 47. Jones walked away as the 2020 Slam Dunk Contest champion, leaving many in the crowd and social media users in shock.

This is the second dunk contest where Gordon has fallen as runner-up. In 2016 the player was what many described as being “robbed” of the title against Zach LaVine.

Kandi Burruss Gives Update After Three People Shot In Her Restaurant

(AllHipHop News) Kandi Burruss has released a statement about a violent shooting inside of her popular Atlanta restaurant on Valentine’s Day.

The police are looking for a gunman who shot three people in Kandi’s Old Lady Gang restaurant in East Point, Georgia on February 14th.

Thankfully, all three victims survived what police believe was a targeted shooting.

Kandi Burruss took to Instagram to address the gunplay.

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A post shared by Kandi Burruss (@kandi)

“My family and I are truly saddened by the unfortunate events that occurred at Old Lady Gang (OLG) Camp Creek, on the evening of February 14th, an evening that was meant to celebrate love, unfortunately, turned into something quite different,” Kandi said.

“Our prayers and thoughts go out to the individuals that were harmed or in any way negatively impacted,” Kandi continued. “We are aware that this matter is being actively investigated by law enforcement and we are cooperating with law enforcement to bring to justice those involved.”

The cops are still trying to capture the perpetrator to figure out a motive for the shooting.

Kandi Burruss founded her Old Lady Gang restaurants in 2016, and the establishment has been prominently featured on “Love & Hip Hop Atlanta” and “Real Housewives of Atlanta.”

Da Baby Claims The Baby Ain’t His! 🍼

(AllHipHop Rumors) If you haven’t heard, Da Baby is expecting another child. We probably wouldn’t have known this tea if his daughter’s mother, MeMe, hadn’t put him on blast.

MeMe exposed screenshots of him and his alleged new baby’s mother conversation, as well as major jabs at him for being controlling.

An woman, who goes by the name of itslatoia, claims he impregnated her and tagged the rapper blog site, The Shade Room. 

Well, it looks like Baby has had enough of people spreading rumors about him and shut down Latvia’s allegations that he is the father of her unborn child. 

He took to Twitter to clear his name, saying he hates having to be put in a position to hurt someone’s feelings to defend himself. But, he gotta do what he gotta do!

EXCLUSIVE: Lizzo Wants Postmates Driver To Pay Her Legal Bill

(AllHipHop News) Lizzo is asking a judge to dismiss a lawsuit filed against her for attacking a Postmates driver on Twitter.

In September of 2017, the rapper called out a Postmates driver named Tiffany Wells, by posting her picture, in a rant accusing of stealing her food.

Lizzo may have apologized, but Tiffany Wells filed her lawsuit anyway, claiming the social media shenanigans pretty much ruined her life.

The rapper just filed her reply to the allegations and she believes she was well within her Constitutional rights.

“Defendant alleges that the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America and other protections for free speech bar this cause of action,” Lizzo’s lawyer Joanna M. Hill argued.

The beef between Lizzo and Tiffany Wells started when the rapper was staying at the Revere Hotel under the alias “Bonnie V.”

Lizzo worked up an appetite, so she used the Postmates app to order a feast from a restaurant called Luke’s Lobster in Boston, Massachusetts.

Postmates driver Tiffany Wells arrived with Lizzo’s food when she allegedly had some trouble contacting the rapper, so she left after 5 minutes to ensure the food didn’t get cold – as per company policy.

The miscommunication sent Lizzo into an angry rage and she accused Tiffany Wells of making off with her grub.

“Hey @Postmates this girl Tiffany W. stole my food she lucky I don’t fight no more,” Lizzo wrote. “The front desk told me she walked in, clocked it as delivered, then walked out with food in hand. Her phone never rang, Postmates couldn’t contact her either. She clearly knew what she was doing and I just don’t want someone else to get they s##t stole too.”

Lizzo eventually apologized when she realized her mistake, but by then, the damage was done.

“I apologize for putting that girl on blast. I understand I have a large following and that there were so many variables that could’ve put her in danger. Imma really be more responsible with my use of social media and check my petty and my pride at the door.”

But Tiffany sued the rapper in November of 2019, saying she was so traumatized by the incident, that she had to quit Postmates over death threats and out of concern for her safety.

Tiffany Wells is suing Lizzo for defamation and intentional infliction of emotional distress. However, Lizzo maintains her Tweets are protected by the Constitution of the United States.

Lizzo is asking a judge to dismiss Tiffany Wells’s lawsuit, in addition to making her fork over an undisclosed amount for her lawyer bill to fight the case.

Quavo Makes an Appearance on “Narcos: Mexico Season Two”

(AllHipHop News) Quavo has a starring role in season two of “Narcos: Mexico.”

The Grammy-nominated rapper plays a character who is a drug dealer from Los Angeles. His character travels to Tijuana to introduce crack to the Arellano Felix family.

In one scene, Quavo can be heard quoting the Migos record “Stir Fry” in the series while demonstrating how to cook crack.

The Migos member’s#### song “Narcos” was inspired by the Netflix series, making the feature a full-circle moment.

“Narcos” showrunner Eric Newman told Entertainment Weekly, “Those guys love the show, and I got to know their manager when they actually helped in the marketing of the last season because they just loved it so much, and they were like, ‘I want to be a part of this.”

Newman went on explaining that he wrote a scene for the group and they agreed. Quavo took one for the team and put his acting skills to work.

“Now, it was supposed to be all three of them, but the music world is a different business, and so only one of them showed up, and we’re like, ‘Cool, love it.’ I would have kept him around forever. I would do a show with him. It was really fun.”

Drake Sued For Stiffing Tour Stage Designer

(AllHipHop News) Drake is being sued by the set designer of his 2018 “Aubrey & The Three Amigos” tour.

According to a report by The Blast, the rapper is being sued for $108,000 for reportedly never paying the designer for the work.

Reps for firm Sila Sveta claims the company was hired to create visual elements for the stage via large screens, behind rapper as he performed.

The set design, which took three months to build, included a life-sized scorpion, a floating Ferrari, and colorful palm trees.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BnIgk_8ncss

It also featured an iPhone X home screen, a holographic projection of Drake, a basketball court, a lava display.

The company claims “they delayed the dates of the tour (requiring Sila Sveta staff to work of additional days)” and “radically changed the configuration, size, and shape of the screens on which the video content was to be played four times.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmaBj7XHXpo

The tour faced production issues which led to the tour being delayed twice and several tour dates being canceled.

After completing the work, the company says Drake’s team refused to pay the owed amount. Drake and his team have yet to respond to the Los Angeles County Court lawsuit.

Meek Mill To Perform At Roots Picnic For The First Time

(AllHipHop News) Meek Mill will be performing at The Roots Picnic in his hometown of Philadelphia.

Taking place on Saturday, May 30th, The Roots Picnic will be held at The Mann in Fairmount Park. The Philly native will take on the festival stage for the first time.

Summer Walker, DaBaby, Snoh Aalegra, and Burna Boy are among the many artists on the festival’s lineup.

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A post shared by The Roots (@theroots)

The Roots Picnic will also have a special R&B set curated by The Roots, titled SOUL.

It will feature special guests Brandy, SWV and Musiq Soulchild who’s celebrating the 20th anniversary of his album Aijuswanaseing.

The picnic will also feature an annual highlight of Back Thought and J Period’s “Live Mixtape” with rappers Griselda, as well as Wu-Tang Clan members Ghostface and Raekwon.

The Roots Picnic will have three different stages with “music, gaming, art, and dialogue.”

There will also be live recordings of the following podcasts on the podcast stage; Around the Way Curls Podcast, CRWN with Elliott Wilson, The Read Podcast, and Questlove Supreme Podcast.

Tickets for the festival are currently on sale here.

The Roots Picnic isn’t the only stage Meek is hitting for the first time. It was announced last month that Meek will be headlining Wireless 2020 in the U.K.

Common Named MVP Of NBA Celebrity All-Star Game

(AllHipHop News) Common was named MVP of Friday night’s All-Star Celebrity Game.

Repping his hometown of Chicago, Common took the trophy for the 2020 title.

With 10 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists, the rapper expressed gratitude for his team’s win and for being MVP in his hometown.

“Man I just feel good being home in Chicago. I just wanted to represent Chicago,” Common said after his standout performance.

Wearing a jersey with the number 25 to represent slain Chicago basketball star Ben Wilson who was murdered outside Simeon High School in 1984, Common thanked Chicago NBA natives such as Quentin Richardson, Isaiah Thomas, and Derrick Rose for their contributions to basketball.

Aside from Common, the Chicago home team, Team Wilbon, consisted of Bad Bunny, Hannibal Buress, Kane Brown, Jon Batiste, Alex Moffat, Jose Andres, Famous Los, Jidenna, Chelsea Gray, and Quentin Richardson.

The away team, Team Stephen A., included Quavo, Chance the Rapper, Lil Rel Howery, Taylor Bennett, Ronnie 2K, Katelyn Ohashi, A’ja Wilson, and Darius Miles.

Team Wilbon defeated Team Stephen A. with 62-47 win at Wintrust Arena.

Kandi Burruss Atlanta Restaurant Shot Up On Valentine’s Day

(AllHipHop News) A popular restaurant owned by “Real Housewives Of Atlanta” star Kandi Burruss was at the epicenter of a shootout last night in the city.

According to the cops, a gunman barged into Kandi’s Old Lady Gang in East Point and started shooting at a patron inside of the prominent establishment.

One man was targeted in the shooting, however, the gunman also hit two innocent bystanders during Valentine’s Day attack.

Kandi Burruss, who is also a member of the popular R&B group Xscape, has yet to comment on the shooting.

Kandi Burruss and her husband Todd Tucker opened Old Lady Gang in 2016 to serve up delectable Southern cuisine.

The reality star’s business was such a hit, she launched a second venue in 2018 and is planning for a third Old Lady Gang in Atlanta.

The restaurant’s unusual name was inspired by Kandi’s mother Joyce Jones, and her aunts, Bertha Jones, and Nora Wilcox

Old Lady Gang has also been a fixture on the popular reality show “Love & Hip Hop Atlanta.”

Police are still trying to figure out a motive for the shooting inside of Old Lady Gang, as they hunt for the suspect to shot up the eatery.

Markuann Smith Talks About “Godfather Of Harlem” Season 2 Renewal

(AllHipHop News) The Epix series “Godfather of Harlem” has been renewed for a second season and show visionary Markuann Smith couldn’t be happier. 

“People always ask me what’s the key to success: It’s believing in yourself, he told AllHipHop exclusively of his meteoric rise. “I turned my circle into squares a long time ago. I ride by myself. I’ll jump in the HOV lane and catch a ticket than go in the lane that everyone else is in. We only get one chance in life. It’s not like a video game where you get to start again. I’m just a person who wasn’t scared to dream big. Godfather Of Harlem season 2 is coming. Stay tuned.”

Forest Whitaker plays the role of notorious Bumpy Johnson in the 10-episode second season, which came to life in 2019. Johnson came to prominence in the 1960s after an 11-year prison bid only to have the Italian mob moving in on his native terrain. 

Chris Brancato and Paul Eckstein brought Smith’s 18-year-and-running dream to life.

Giancarlo Esposito, Lucy Fry, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Vincent D’Onofrio, Ilfenesh Hadera, Nigél Thatch, Rafi Gavron, and Antoinette Crowe-Legacy and even Smith act in the epic series.

“Godfather of Harlem” is a product of ABC Signature Studios and is executive produced by Smith, Nina Yang Bongiovi, James Acheson, and Joe Chappelle. Hip-Hop producer Swizz Beatz is the executive music producer and while Chris Brancato also acts as the showrunner.

Check out AllHipHop’s exclusive interview with Markuann Smith. 

Wiz Khalifa Gives New Instruments To Music Education Non-Profit Little Kids Rock

(AllHipHop News) Multi-platinum selling and Grammy-winning rapper Wiz Khalifa spent Thursday giving back.

The “Black and Yellow” rapper partnered with national music education nonprofit, Little Kids Rock and made a visit to the Eliot Arts Magnet Academy middle school in California.

The rapper showed up to impress upon the students the importance of music education in schools. Wize even bought the kids new instruments for the students to play.

“Music has always been a huge part of my life.” Wiz stated. “I want to make sure that the kids of today’s generation get the same if not better opportunities that I got. It has been great to make this happen with Little Kids Rock.”

While Wiz thought that he was surprising the kids with the gift of music, it was he who really blessed.

The students rocked out and serenaded him with his own award-winning and chart-topping hit, “See You Again.”

The school’s principal Lori Touloumian was grateful for Wiz Khalifa’s appearance.

“We are incredibly grateful to Little Kids Rock for bringing these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to our students and encouraging their endeavors in music education,” Principal Touloumian said. 

Missandei From “Game of Thrones” Yucks It Up With Kevin Hart And John Travolta In New Comedy

(AllHipHop News) “Game of Thrones” fans are about to flip their wigs while splitting their sides with laughter when alumna of the show, Nathalie Emmanuel joins Kevin Hart and John Travolta in the comedic action series, “Die Hart” to be distributed by the short-form mobile video platform Quibi.

The show starts production this month, February, in Atlanta and will essentially be a “fictionalized version” of Hart.

Motivation? Kevin Hart is tired of being the sidekick.

Writers Tripper Clancy and Derek Kolstad have created a hilarious storyline that moved Hart’s character from the second role to leading man status was contingent on him going to “action star school” and being taught by Travolta’s character- a raving maniac of a teacher.

This is where Emmanuel steps in… she is his nemesis in the class, working to outdo him in whatever over-the-top challenge the teacher has for them.

“Die Hart” will be the first production of its kind from Laugh Out Loud. Hart serves as executive producer with Candice Wilson, Bryan Smiley, and Jeff Clanagan.

Emmanuel is super busy in 2020, even as “GOT” is over. She will appear again in “Fast & Furious” as Ramsey. Emmanuel is repped by ICM Partners.

R. Kelly Indicted On New Sex Charges As Feds Seize Millions From Disgraced Singer

(AllHipHop News) R. Kelly’s hopes of getting out of jail during a scheduled bail hearing have just been torpedoed by a brand new indictment.

Earlier today (February 14th), the Feds announced five new charges against the disgraced R&B singer, over claims he abused another minor for four years, beginning in 1997.

R. Kelly allegedly befriended the new victim known as “Minor 6” when she was only 14-years-old, and he started a sexual relationship with the victim shortly afterward between 1998 and 2002.

The Feds are also targeting R. Kelly’s pockets for the first time as well.

According to the latest indictment, prosecutors are seeking to seize control of R. Kelly’s company Bass Productions LTD. They are also seeking a personal judgment against R. Kelly in the amount of $1,554,748.00.

The new charges against R. Kelly will certainly ruin his upcoming court date on March 5th, where the singer’s lawyer is planning to ask to release the singer on bail.

R. Kelly is currently facing hundreds of years in prison over three separate indictments in New York, Illinois, and Minnesota, for transporting minors across state lines with the intention of having sex with them. 

Check Out How Diddy, Blac Youngsta, Drake, Cardi & Offset & More Spent Valentine’s Day

(AllHipHop News) It is Valentine’s Day and just like everyone else, Hip-Hop elites are getting their romance on.

Well, maybe not like everyone else.

Our celebrities and influencers have taken the holiday to a whole new level, making it not just a day about love, red hearts, and candy but a day where some of them can make a little moolah.

Check out how these celebrities are putting it down with their loved ones, fans, and friends.

Sean Love Combs (yes, that is the man’s real name) is having a “Love Party” where according to the flyer, everyone is invited.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8h7VyVHEG7

Drake is setting the mood with some bubbly, as The Mod Collection from his pricey Blanc de Blancs Champagne drops right in time for loves to get lit, while they getting lit.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8fSJ2YFAon

Cardi and Offset remain Hip-Hop’s most favorite couple as they snuggle up in bed, giggling and cooing. Offset sings ever so sweetly in his young bride’s ear— and like the stans we are, we are waiting with bated breath to see the flicks from their Chicago trip that he promises Bardi at the beginning of the video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9v2sesPOfs

Another couple stunting on the gram were the Pettys. Nicki and her new beau, promise to share pics later but leave the Barbs with the couple matching in muted earth tones on this festive day.

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A post shared by Barbie (@nickiminaj)

Rappers are showing their mack game during this Black Love Day, by putting out music.

Chief Keef puts out a bop that seems to make you groove but does not inspire love and affection, contrary to Christian battle rapper Th3 Saga who drops “BeYOUtiful” to inspire women out in rapland to know their worth.

Blac Youngsta put his version of a serenade on the song “All I Want” featuring Jacquees, complete with a sexy girl and Blac dressed up like a lovesick nerd.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8iOdWen8QE

For a family man like DJ Khaled, his Valentine’s Day points to him celebrating the love for his children and Queen in the most elaborate way ever!

The “We The Best” King waited for them to arrive on a private jet and shares their reunion on social. The glimpse into his private-public life is endearing, but further pictures show this “Love Day” is more than just a Hallmark “get rich day” for Khaled.

Where ever you are and whomever you are there with, make sure that this Valentine’s Day is safe. #WrapItUpTigers

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A post shared by DJ KHALED (@djkhaled)

Rayan Of Mindless Behavior Explains Life After The Boy Band

Mindless Behavior will forever go down as one of the most iconic boy bands in history, best known for their hit singles, “My Girl” and “Mrs. Right.”

Insert Rayan Lopez (nicknamed Ray Ray at the time), who’s back on the music scene after a long hiatus.

With the group dismantling, Rayan needed to find his own footing as a solo artist — and he plans to take things to the next level.

Rayan describes himself as a “creative,” something he’s been his entire life.

Before he was immersed in music and dance, he actually thought he was going to be a drawing artist. While he was always drawing portraits, he eventually fell in love with music and all it encompasses.

He states, “Overall, my entire life revolved around ideas, just creating and being free.”

Rayan arrives at Coffee Commissary in Burbank a much more mature, knowledged, independent artist than Ray Ray was.

He wore his little brother’s gold ‘S’ chain, which stands for the Rolling 60’s neighborhood they both grew up in.

AllHipHop: You were only 13 when the band formed. What was life like then?

Rayan: It was a dramatic transition because I grew up in South Central Los Angeles, so I come from the hood. We moved to Compton, went to live with Keisha Gamble (she developed the group) for about a year, then instantly there was fame for us. It was a great experience. I loved being in the group, but it was something to adjust to and to wrap my mind around. Because from where I come from, that’s just a dream.

AllHipHop: How do boy groups compare today?

Rayan: I don’t think they’re the same at all. Back in the day, even as old as I am, Jackson 5, B2K, all these other bands, there was a lot of development that went into groups. That went into taking four, five, or however many members, and making them one. Nowadays because of social media, it’s different. People just be like “oh we’re a group now, let’s post.” They don’t put the hard work into it like they used to.

AllHipHop: Do you ever get sick of performing “My Girl”?

Rayan: When I was performing it, definitely. I got sick and tired of that song, just because it was the first single. I got tired of hearing it. I don’t perform it at all anymore. Honestly, I don’t touch any of the Mindless Behavior music at all. But during that time, oh I used to be sick of that song! That and “Mrs. Right.”

AllHipHop: What was life like after Mindless Behavior?

Rayan: Well when I left, I went through a hard time really realizing okay, now you have to focus on yourself. You’re a priority. Not this idea, brand of which you are, these other three members. I had to wrap my head around: you’re an individual and you have to take care of yourself. I went through hardships but it was a learning experience because now I’m in a better place. I’m more proud of being Rayan than Ray Ray. Or this image of Ray Ray, so it’s great. Life is beautiful right now.

AllHipHop: How much did it affect you?

Rayan: I left because of bad management, being taken advantage of, things like that. Because I was young and naive, I didn’t know any better. Leaving the group, I had a big downfall. I had to go back to where I was raised, etc. It was a learning lesson. I took my depression, my pain, the sacrifice I had to go through and realized you have to learn from it. You have to grow. You can’t become stagnant. It was definitely hard, but I appreciated it more than anything.

AllHipHop: Why the hiatus?

Rayan: Shortly after I left the group, I found out I was having a son. Also when I wasn’t obligated to post from my Instagram, I just realized I dislike social media. I’m not the biggest fan of it. I use it because I have to. I don’t get the idea of watching other people do things when you can do it yourself, or watch your favorite artist post money when you can go make that money. [chuckles]

Even now my phone, I have it set up to where I only get up to two hours on social media so I have to use my time wisely. You can set it up in Settings. For me, I was tucking away because not only did I not want my son in the limelight, but just to get away. It was healthy. I really got into meditation and doing yoga, really self-care more than anything. Social media can wait! For me personally, I know I’m talented. I know I got multiple gifts. When I’m ready to hit, it’s going to hit. That might just be the confidence in me, but it’s how I am.

AllHipHop: Do you think social media is important in today’s streaming era?

Rayan: Yeah, social media is very important with being an artist today. I read this article that 80% to 83% of all individuals on social media don’t read anymore. It’s only about the visuals, which is why Instagram’s so big. That makes sense because nowadays, everybody wants you to be visually attractive. If you drop a song, you must drop a video too. If you don’t have a video, you have to make a Triller or Tik Tok. They want to see you, so Instagram is definitely a huge part of developing and being a huge tool for major artists today. It helped so many celebrities, even from little memes. From Megan Thee Stallion to DaBaby, certain things catch on and then the internet just grabs to it.

AllHipHop: How has the music industry changed on your hiatus?

Rayan: Social media. [chuckles] Even if you’re a new artist, people expect you to have the same amount of financial image as the most popular artist. They just expect a lot of you. They want you to go Live, they want you to post every now and again, all these things. But back then, it wasn’t about that. You were posting for fun.

It’s totally different now with social media. I appreciate the industry now: because of social media, you’re allowed to be more free. You don’t have to sign to these bulls##t labels. You can be independent. You can be an individual now and you’re not judged for it. You don’t have to follow these rules. Overall, it’s a good change.

AllHipHop: Best part of being a solo artist?

Rayan: I don’t have to do choreography. [laughs] Nah. I don’t have to worry about three other individuals possibly ruining my career. At the time we were together, we had love for each other. As people, we grow apart. But it used to worry me sometimes being on tour. If this person messes up on the show, they don’t just go “oh hey, Roc Royal messed up.” They say “Mindless Behavior had a bad show.” Their flaws and their wrongs were also light on me, that’s something I really disliked.

AllHipHop: What inspired your new single “Right Now?

Rayan: Truthfully my younger brother, he’s from the streets. You see any idea of street gang violence, that’s my little brother. He’s really into that lifestyle so I have to look out for him. There was a situation where people who disliked him went after him, and my little brother was shot. I got a call, I pulled up on him and he was panicking. He was bleeding, this whole situation. There was a moment where I had to pull him to the side, me and him had a really deep one-on-one talk before going to the hospital.

But my anxiety is really bad. For the first time in my life, I felt I needed some sort of substance to calm me down. I’ve never felt that way before. Like I say in the song, I’ve never popped a pill. I’ve never done these popular drugs. Well, besides psychedelics. [chuckles] That’s the first time I felt that way so when I started writing, instantly that was the inspiration.

As a solo artist, I want to be able to tell my truth. I don’t want nothing about Rayan to be a gimmick. I want everything to be raw. I want everything to be real, and that’s something really close to me. That’s a real situation. I got the pretty face and the long hair, so people really don’t get that where I come from is serious. If you listen to the song: “If you trip, that’s on my brother. I’ll slide just like I’m him. I’ll ride just like I’m him. I’ll die because of him.” That’s true because that’s my family. We have that bond, we have that loyalty. That’s what I wanted to get across in that song.

AllHipHop: The “Rest in peace Nip” line stuck with me.

Rayan: The part of South Central I grew up from, the gang is Neighborhood 60’s. Rolling 60’s Crips, so my little brother is from the same hood that Nipsey’s from. I grew up in that hood my whole life. Being around, Nip was around. His homies, everything is six degrees of separation. When Nip died, yeah it affected the world, but people that came from that exact area, it triggered us differently. Because he didn’t deserve to go that way, it was such a traumatic experience.

Being there directly after, it just triggered us differently who come from that area. That was something I wanted to express. Not expressing it in a way where we were buddies or we were best friends, but just to let the world know: it’s always going to be rest in peace Nipsey. The utmost respect: he took care of his community. I know people personally that he took care of.

Though I grew up there, I never joined that gang. Back to the lines, I say “rest in peace Neighborhood Nip. That’s on Neighborhood Crip. I’m not from the set, but the Jackson’s where I live.” I’m really letting ya’ll know I come from there. Because Nipsey wasn’t supposed to go that way. Even thinking about it, it’s disturbing.

AllHipHop: What can we expect from your forthcoming EP?

Rayan: A lot of truth. Though the genre’s hip hop, it’s rap, I always have this melancholy tuck to me. I’m talking a lot about where I come from and a lot about women. I love women. I have so many different stories that I wanted to be honest about. No matter if you’re single or in a relationship, you’re always going through something. For you, it might be a man. For a man, it might be a woman.

Also with family, there’s constantly something happening. So a lot of truth, a lot of subtle feels. Even if the beat is hitting hard, I have my own world in music. That’s what I want to get across in the sound, which is why I’m naming the EP If Love Died Everyday. Not just about relationships, it’s about hardship and heartache. We all go through s##t and I just want to highlight that. I want to connect to people that way.

B.o.B Releases Valentine’s Day Episode Of “The BoBCast,” Featuring A Financial Dominatrix

(AllHipHop News) On Friday, B.o.B taps into taboo territory with the release of the second episode of his podcast on Valentine’s Day, featuring a popular dominatrix as his special guest.

As seen in Essence Magazine and Paper Magazine, Financial Dominatrix, Mistress Marley sits alongside the multi-platinum rapper and his “BoBCast” co-hosts Tiff and Cam for a conversation that leaves listeners on the edge of their seats. [A dominatrix, is defined as a “dominant woman who takes the dominant role in B### activities”].

Fans are introduced to another side of B.o.B as they discuss, sex, gender roles, financial dominance and the B### community. 

Born Bobby Ray Simmons, Jr., in Decatur, GA, the rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer has made a household name for himself with popular hit singles like, “Nothing On You” and “Airplanes.” 

After releasing his album The Adventures of Bobby Ray in 2010, the album quickly hit the US Billboard 200 and later was declared a 2x platinum album by the Recording Industry Association of America(RIAA) in 2016.

Back in 2018, B.o.B announced his last studio album would be Naga, but he proceeded to release his album Southmatic which showcased his strong southern roots in Hip-Hop. Despite his latest album release, fans have questioned B.O.B’s whereabouts over the last few years.

According to B.o.B, fans can expect to hear all about his hiatus when they tune into “The BoBCast” on YouTube each week. 

What he describes as “unapologetic, uninhibited, and unscripted” the guest line-up will range from producers and artists to reality stars and sex workers. 

Episodes will openly vary between topics like the dominatrix, relationships, life-experiences, and the entertainment industry as a whole. No topic is off limits and with this podcast, B.o.B plans to break social norms. 

Watch Episode 2 of “The BobCast” Here!

Deceased Funk Singer Rick James Sued For Raping 15-Year-Old In 1979

(AllHipHop News) Although Rick James has been dead for over 15 years, stories about his wild and abusive rock star life still emerge.

This time, the tale is not a funny bit told by master comedian Charlie Murphy on “The Dave Chapelle Show.”

It is a horrible allegation that seems to creep up more and more as people find the courage to speak out against sexual assault, abuse, and rape.

According to a new lawsuit, Rick James’ Estate is preparing to deal with a $50 million claim brought by a woman who asserts that back in 1979, she was raped by the “Super Freak” himself.

The anonymous accuser has hired the Manhattan firm Oddo & Babat to represent her and has detailed the alleged assault in an affidavit filed Thursday in Erie County Supreme Court.

In the affidavit, the woman says that when she was a teenager, 15-years old and living in a group home, Rick came to the residence to visit the house parents.

The funk singer was introduced to the young women, but because of his crude disposition and p#### mouth, she slid away, retreating to her room to read a book.

While resting on her stomach, she alleges, he came into her room uninvited. The then 30-something Funk singer allegedly climbed on top of her and penetrated her.

“I tried to fight him off, but he told me to ‘shut up and quit moving or I’ll cut you,’” she stated in the affidavit.

As an after fact, this woman’s life has been a living hell:

“I abused alcohol briefly as a young teenager, used drugs, suffered from low self-esteem, had serious thoughts of suicide, and had difficulty concentrating, all from Rick James’s rape,” the affidavit stated, adding that she also suffers from panic attacks, nightmares and flashbacks.

“This traumatic experience has caused me everlasting damage and I would like to preserve my privacy in this matter.”

So you are probably saying, that’s so many years ago. How can they prove anything?

Attorney David Oddo says his team performed “a very thorough and incredulous investigation into these allegations and determined that they are highly credible.”

Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty Line Accused Of “Deceptive Marketing”

(AllHipHop News) Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty lingerie company has been accused of “deceptive marketing” for signing customers up to a monthly subscription service “without clearly” disclosing all the terms and conditions.

A complaint has been filed with the Federal Trade Commission and the California District Attorney’s office for Santa Cruz County by non-profit watchdog group Truth in Advertising (TINA), who alleged the organization has been trying to dupe customers by promoting discounts that can only be used once they sign up for the $49.95-a-month VIP subscription.

“It deceptively promotes discounts and product prices that are only available to consumers who are bound to the company’s membership program without clearly and conspicuously disclosing this fact in its marketing materials,” TINA stated in its complaint.

According to the watchdog, they discovered that when using the Savage x Fenty online shop, the VIP membership is automatically added when a customer adds something to the shopping basket.

However, the monthly recurring fee isn’t included in the total amount, and shoppers are only made aware of it in the site’s small print during the checkout process.

It’s only if they know to remove the monthly membership from their carts that customers can see the normal price of items.

“By default, the company enrolls consumers into a negative option offer known as the Xtra VIP Membership without clearly and conspicuously disclosing all the material terms and conditions, such as needing to take affirmative action every month to avoid recurring monthly charges,” the complaint continued.

Following the complaint filing, Emma Tully, a spokesperson for Savage x Fenty, which Rihanna launched in May 2018, responded via email to CNN business, saying: “These accusations are false and based on misconceptions of our business. We are proud of our flexible membership program because it allows us to offer unparalleled quality and value to our customers.

“We believe strongly in transparency, which is why we provide multiple disclosures of membership terms throughout the shopping experience, within advertisements, and through our ambassador engagement policies.”

Tully added that Savage x Fenty hasn’t received any inquiries from the Federal Trade Commission as yet.

NBA To Pay Tribute To Kobe Bryant During Touching Ceremony Led By Jennifer Hudson

(AllHipHop News) Jennifer Hudson will honor the late Kobe Bryant during the 2020 NBA All-star Game on Sunday.

The former Los Angeles Lakers player died in a helicopter crash last month, alongside his teenage daughter and seven other victims.

On Thursday, the National Basketball League announced the Oscar winner will open the game with a special tribute to the sportsman.

Hudson previously paid her respects when news of his passing was announced.

“It’s like every time I go to sleep and then wake up somebody else is gone ! This news Hurts my heart so bad !” she wrote at the time.

Other artists are set to perform throughout this year’s All-Star Game broadcast, including Chance the Rapper, who will perform a halftime show along with Lil Wayne, DJ Khaled and Quavo.

Chaka Khan will sing the U.S. national anthem, with country music star Tenille Arts performing the Canadian anthem.

The format of the game itself will also be reworked to honor Bryant, with a fourth-quarter target score being introduced as opposed to the usual time limit.

The target score is decided by adding 24 points — in honor of Bryant’s jersey number — to the winning score after three quarters, with the first team to reach the goal winning the game.

The game will be held at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.