There were a lot of beloved celebrities who passed away in 2020. For many fans of Chadwick Boseman, the loss of the acclaimed Black Panther actor was one of the year’s most difficult news stories to grasp.
Boseman died on August 28 after a long, unpublicized battle with colon cancer. Before his death, the 43-year-old Howard University graduate filmed his final on-screen role in a movie titled Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.
Beginning today (December 18), Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom is available for streaming on Netflix. The George C. Wolfe-directed motion picture is an adaptation of two-time Pulitzer Prize winner August Wilson’s 1982 play of the same.
Academy Award winner Viola Davis (Fences) stars as 1920s-era Blues singer Ma Rainey. The late Boseman appears as cornet player Levee. Two-time Academy Award winner Denzel Washington (Glory, Training Day) is credited as one of the producers for Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom.
Colman Domingo, Glynn Turman, Michael Potts, Taylour Paige, Dusan Brown, Jeremy Shamos, and Jonny Coyne are also part of the Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom cast. Ruben Santiago-Hudson adapted the screenplay. Jazz legend Branford Marsalis provided the score.
In the end, TikTok became one of the preferred social media applications for the under-21 crowd. It helped spark worldwide trends that put instant spotlights on international music artists through viral dance challenges and lipsync performances.
Top 10 genres on TikTok in 2020.
TikTok has now released its “Music 2020” recap. Rap was overwhelmingly the most popular genre on the platform by a wide margin over Pop, R&B/Soul, and Electronic. Plus, Hip Hop acts dominated the app’s year-end lists.
Megan Thee Stallion came in at #1 on the 2020 tally of the ten most viewed artists on TikTok. The Houston rapstress was bolstered by two Billboard Hot 100 #1 singles – “Savage Remix” with Beyoncé and “WAP” with Cardi B. The rest of the Top 5 includes Doja Cat (#2), Pop Smoke (#3), DaBaby (#4), and Roddy Ricch (#5).
When it comes to the fastest songs to hit a billion video views on TikTok, once again Hip Hop was at the pinnacle. Drake’s chart-topping “Toosie Slide” generated a billion views in just three days, and Cardi B’s “WAP” featuring Megan Thee Stallion achieved that feat in two weeks. Ying Yang Twins’s “Say I Yi Yi,” Sada Baby’s “Whole Lotta Choppas,” and Pop Smoke’s “Mood Swings” also landed in the Top 10.
In addition, TikTok named Ying Yang Twins’s “Say I Yi Yi”, Run DMC’s “It’s Tricky,” and J. Cole’s “No Role Modelz” as “catalog hits” that had a major impact with users in 2020. 24kGoldn, Flo Milli, ppcocaine, The Kid Laroi, and 11 other musicians were highlighted by TikTok as emerging artists this year.
TikTok’s Top 10 Most Viewed Artists By Catalog For 2020:
Megan Thee Stallion
Doja Cat
Pop Smoke
DaBaby
Roddy Ricch
Melanie Martinez
Don Toliver
Dua Lipa
24kGoldn
Lil Uzi Vert
TikTok’s Fastest Songs To A Billion Video Views For 2020:
Herbert “G Herbo” Wright III and his alleged co-conspirators were indicted on several federal charges. The U.S. Attorney’s Office of Massachusetts is accusing the Chicago-bred crew of a nationwide conspiracy that allegedly defrauded numerous businesses and individuals.
Herbo surrendered to federal authorities in California on December 3. He pled not guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft via remote video conferencing. The 25-year-old PTSD album creator is reportedly free on a $75,000 bond.
The other defendants named in the indictment are Antonio Strong, Demario Sorrells, Steven Hayes, Terrance Bender, and Joseph “Rockstar Rodie” Williams. They were all charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Hayes and Bender were each charged with two counts of aggravated identity theft. Sorrells was also charged with one count of aggravated identity theft, Strong was charged with nine counts of aggravated identity theft, and Williams was charged with three counts of aggravated identity theft.
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After his legal issues became public, Herbo posted photos on Instagram suggesting that he was unbothered by the case. A week later he released a new song titled “Statement” which appears to address some of the federal government’s criminal allegations against him.
“Let’s talk about this paper. Let’s talk about them jets. Let’s talk about Jamaica. Ask about me, I ain’t never been a fraud. I went hard from the start,” he raps on “Statement.” Herbo and the five other men are accused of using stolen credit card account information to illegally purchase private jet charters, exotic car rentals, luxury hotel accommodations, designer puppies, and more.
Later in the song, Herbo says, “Rollies for my brodie though. Barely know Joe Rodeo. Heard they looking for me. I’m like, ‘Oh, I’m on the way.’ Bond money, know I’m straight. I spent a 130K at the gate. They like, ‘Swervo stay safe.’ I’m like, ‘Man, y’all late.’ Y’all like, “Free me.’ I’m like, ‘I’ve been in the crib all day.’ I’m in Cali thinking how I come from pissy hallways.”
If convicted of wire fraud conspiracy and wire fraud, Herbo faces a sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison, up to five years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. The aggravated identity theft charges provide for a mandatory two years in federal prison.
The COVID-19 pandemic did not slow down Cardi B from making money moves. Her global smash single “WAP” featuring Megan Thee Stallion became a cultural phenomenon. Plus, the former Love & Hip Hop cast member built business relationships with Balenciaga and Reebok.
This week, Cardi revealed that she has also been filming a new series titled Cardi Tries. The eight-episode reality show presents the Grammy-winning rapper attempting to do different activities and professions such as stunt car racing, making sushi, and teaching kindergarten.
“Even if you had a good year when it comes to money, a job, or if you had a baby, there was just a lot of sadness to see people dying with coronavirus. Seeing a lot [of] people sick and seeing a lot [of] people losing they jobs. [And] a lot of artists getting their lives taken from them. I just want this show to bring a little bit of happiness and good humor to everybody,” Cardi told BET.
The first episode, which premiered on the entertainer’s Facebook page, featured legendary actress/choreographer Debbie Allen giving Cardi dance lessons. “Cardi Tries Ballet” has already garnered more than 1.7 million views, 181,000 reactions, and 18,000 comments on the platform.
“Get ready yall! My new show ‘Cardi Tries ____’ launches today! Watch me try ballet, stunt car racing, and basketball to name a few. Check it out every Thursday on @messenger and @instagram video chat #WatchTogether!” tweeted Cardi on Thursday. She later revealed her ballet class with Allen actually inspired one of the poses for her Billboard 2020 Women of the Year Award photos.
New installments of Cardi Tries will premiere each Thursday. Viewers can watch the program via Facebook Messenger’s Watch Together feature which is now available on Messenger, Messenger Rooms, and Instagram. Cardi B’s husband, Offset, as well as Fast & Furious franchise star Michelle Rodriguez and Portland Trail Blazers All-Star Damian Lillard, will make appearances on the show.
It’s this one! 😂Fun fact :Debbie Allen inspired this post ……you guys will find out how soon 😉 pic.twitter.com/V76o8Q2pAf
Dominique “Lil Baby” Jones is undoubtedly one of the hottest rappers on the planet at the moment. The last year has seen the Quality Control Music representative elevate his career to another level.
Lil Baby’s sophomore album, My Turn, is listed as the top-selling music project of 2020. The LP moved more than 2.5 million units since its release in February and has been certified 2x Multi-Platinum by the RIAA.
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All of his success over the last 12 months led to Apple Music naming Lil Baby as the company’s Artist of the Year. To celebrate this accomplishment, the 26-year-old Atlanta native performed a 13-minute set of his songs for the streaming service.
“This year has changed me a lot. Now that I’m an artist, I feel like my voice can get heard through my music and I needed to say something. And my fans listened. So thank you to my fans and thank you to Apple Music for giving me a special way to connect to my fans,” says Lil Baby.
Fellow Hip Hop stars Roddy Ricch and Megan Thee Stallion were also 2020 Apple Music Award winners and performers. Ricch received Top Song of the Year (“The Box”) and Top Album of the Year (Please Excuse Me for Being Antisocial). Megan was crowned Breakthrough Artist of the Year.
Back in January, Eminem dropped his 11th studio LP, Music to Be Murdered By. The Detroit-bred emcee is ending 2020 by releasing a deluxe version of the album.
Music to Be Murdered By: Side B is an additional 16 tracks. DJ Premier, Ty Dolla Sign, and Em’s longtime musical mentor Dr. Dre are guest features on the new collection of songs.
The original version of the project featured Young M.A, Royce da 5’9″, Ed Sheeran, Black Thought, Q-Tip, Anderson .Paak, the late Juice WRLD, and more. Music to Be Murdered By opened at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart with 279,000 first-week units.
On December 17, Eminem also let loose an official music video for “GNAT” via Lyrical Lemonade’s YouTube channel. Cole Bennett directed the visuals for the DA Got That Dope-produced record.
Rap star Mystikal caught a huge break this week after a grand jury decided to dismiss rape charges against the rap star.
Mystikal, real name Michael Tyler, and a friend named Averweone Holman had been charged with first-degree rape and second-degree kidnapping, stemming from an incident in a Casino back in October of 2016.
The case grew more complicated when a woman named Tenichia Wafford was indicted for obstruction of justice charge concerning the alleged assault, for trying to get the woman to drop her case against the pair.
Mystikal, 50, maintained his innocence the whole time but he still spend 18 months locked up over the allegation. He pleaded not guilty to the charges in December of 2017. He was eventually released on a $3 million bond.
According to the D.A., there was not enough evidence to take the “Danger” singer to trial, so a grand jury dismissed the entire case.
“Additional evidence and information were discovered and the case was resubmitted to this second grand jury in the interest of justice,” a rep for the D.A. said in a statement. “Based on the grand jury’s decision, the Caddo Parish district attorney’s office will dismiss the charges pending against Mr. Tyler.”
Sean Kingston’s love for jewelry is ending the singer’s 2020 on a bad note.
According to reports, Sean Kingston is wanted by the police for an unpaid jewelry tab. Apparently, the “Beautiful Girls” hitmaker ordered a bunch of pricey bling, and never paid for it.
As a result, the cops are on the lookout for Kingston, and when they catch him he could be sent to jail. Sean has had multiple problems with his jewels over the last several years.
In June of 2016, Sean Kingston ended up in a war with rapper Meek Mill after he was robbed of his bling at a club in Los Angeles in June of 2016, which roped the Philly rapper into a beef with Game, who claimed he snitched to the cops.
Kingston was also sued multiple times over unpaid bills for pricey items like necklaces and watches. In August of 2016, Sean Kingston was sued by a New York jeweler after he bounced a check for nine pieces of jewelry he purchased.
In December of 2016, Sean Kingston was ordered to pay $44,000 to Haimov Jewelers in Florida for a bunch of jewels he ordered and never paid for.
And in February of 2018, Kingston was ordered to pay $301,000 for running off with two diamond necklaces and two watches.
Sean Kingston did not seemed phase by the arrest warrant. He took to the gram to flaunt his mansion, a lamborghini SUV, his Maybach, an iced out watch and a $300 face mask!
Pharrell Williams has called on music industry heavyweights to change the way they do business and allow artists to own the rights to their songs.
The “Happy” hitmaker was asked for his opinion on the nasty spat between Taylor Swift and music mogul Scooter Braun, who snapped up the rights to her back catalog after acquiring the singer’s former record label, during a recent Variety chat, and he insisted the Svengali did nothing wrong.
That said, he believes Swift should have been given the opportunity to buy her own master recordings.
“There’s no other industry out there in the world where a start-up gets off the ground and doesn’t own the trademark – it just doesn’t make sense,” Pharrell says. “It may be legal, but it’s still a crime. If a bank walks away with ownership of a company and the trademark, how much should a creator really be participating? The artist should always have the lion’s share of their creation.
“It’s really unfortunate, you know. There was room for him (Braun) to make his acquisition because that’s just the way the business is, and I felt for her (Taylor) and not being able to be in control of it. There’s a system in place that’s just all wrong.
“He’s a businessman and he also represents artists, so from his point of view he’s just making an acquisition of something that he felt would be a good investment. But the artist should have the opportunity (to retain ownership)…
“I just know that the system is wired in ways that is oftentimes not always fair to the creator. I think it should be the norm that the creators retain their rights.”
The authorities also confiscated drugs, and 14 guns, along with NBA Youngboy’s cash. In a ruling today, a local judge agreed that the seizure of NBA Youngboy’s cash was “illegal and unconstitutional.”
According to The Advocate, prosecutors did not provide enough evidence to prove the rap star’s cash was contraband.
Investigators are still reviewing the evidence collected during the September 28th raid.
So far, no one has been charged with any crime in connection to the bust.
While Hip-Hop is typically a genre made for the rough and rugged, rappers do fall in love (or deep like at the very least). AllHipHop.com teamed up with Atlanta’s own DJ MARS to come up with some of the best Hip-Hop love songs ever recorded. There were so many dope songs that could fall into this category, we have to create two lists.
This first list overlaps four different decades and envelops not only songs about falling for that special someone but looks at basic attraction and heartbreaks.
Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele have never been afraid to use their television series to put a comical spotlight on serious social issues. Following in the tradition of Saturday Night Live, In Living Color, and Chappelle’s Show, Comedy Central’s Key & Peele often plays like a live action political cartoon disguised as a sketch comedy show. It’s an exploration of the human condition wrapped in humor.
For four seasons the two MADtv alumni have challenged viewers to question their views on often contentious topics like race, homophobia, and politics. The upcoming season finale continues the program’s tendency to blend comedy and social commentary.
Key and Peele open the finale with a Crossfire-esque sketch that points out the über-partisan lunacy often displayed on cable news channels. Other spoofs in the episode titled “Terrorist Meeting” include amusing takedowns of ISIS, gang culture, sibling rivalry, and movie dates.
The future for Key and Peele is set to feature a reboot of the 1980’s movie Police Academy. Before the Peabody Award winners jump into forthcoming motion picture endeavors, AllHipHop.com wanted to get Key and Peele’s thoughts on their past inspirations.
Every comedic genius stands on the shoulders of legendary performers that previously broke down doors in TV, film, and stand-up, so discover which funny men make Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele’s respective lists of comedians that left a memorable mark on them.
Statik Selektah will forever go down in history as one of the most legendary producers to grace the rap game. Looking back on his 25-year long music career, the Boston, Massachusetts native and Roc Nation signee gives us hope that real hip-hop will always stand the test of time. From his teenage days DJing high school functions to professionally touring the world and working with all the top MCs, Statik is an inspiration to all those who aspire to turn their dreams into a reality.
Now, Statik returns with his highly-anticipated ninth studio album titled The Balancing Act, speaking volumes to his own responsibilities as an artist, a producer, a DJ, and most importantly, a father. Similar to his previous projects, the 16-track project is STACKED with features including Nas, 2 Chainz, Killer Mike, Jack Harlow, Method Man, Dave East, Westside Gunn, Conway the Machine, Benny the Butcher, Black Thought, Joey Bada$$, Bun B, Paul Wall, and more.
AllHipHop caught up with Statik, who was cooking pasta with his adorable 5-year-old daughter in his home in Brooklyn. He states, “shout out to Johnny Cupcakes, he made his own logo pasta. I got the Premium Pete tomato sauce, all my friends are making pasta now.”
AllHipHop: How are you holding up with everything happening?
Statik Selektah: I’m just relieved the album’s out. It was a challenge to get it finished up in these crazy times, but a lot of moments on the album happened because of what we’re going through. Getting people in the studio, most of this album was done via email. I don’t really like doing it like that, but no choice.
AllHipHop: What moments happened because of COVID?
Statik Selektah: The Jack Harlow record, what he’s talking about on there. That’s a big one. The Nas, Joey record came out different than we intended. They were going to be in the studio together originally, but it didn’t happen. Joey came to me, then we sent Nas the open parts and he did it.
AllHipHop: How’d that collaboration come together?
Statik Selektah: We met up back in January Grammy weekend, I was with Nas and Peter from Mass Appeal. I texted Joey like “yo we over here, come talk about this situation.” Because Nas and Joey been talking about doing a record for a while, but I don’t think Nas ever met Joey until that night. This was January 24th. He came through, we chopped it up. I had to be so clear I needed this as my single. I know each one of them probably wanted to do something for the album. I said “nah, I need this as my first single on Mass Appeal.” It’s full circle for me having Joey who’s my little brother and Nas my big brother. When we had the meeting, man COVID turned the world upside down and the record didn’t get done for months. But it got done and I love it, so it’s all good.
AllHipHop: What does a song like “Keep It Moving” mean during these times?
Statik Selektah: The only way to get through this year is keep it moving. I’ma keep it a buck, we replayed the sample and this girl Tina G who sings on the song came up with that part and sang it. You know what, I’m going to name the song that.
AllHipHop: How was playing it for Dave Chappelle?
Statik Selektah: I went out to Ohio a couple of times in the summer for Camp Chappelle. It was a real dope escape man, what Dave was doing out there for comedy, for music, everything. People already know how great he is, but he saved my year. Very therapeutic going out there, I was going through some personal things at the time. It was everything. First time I went out there, I saw a picture of Nas and Gary Clark Jr. on the wall in his shack. The last night, I told Dave about the record and he said “man I can’t wait to hear it.”
I left the next day and didn’t even know I was going to go back out there, but I got the opportunity another week later. First thing I said when I got out there was “yo I brought the record.” We’re back at his garage, he throws parties at the shack. It’s 2am, he said “can we play it?” There’s already a no phone rule anyways, so yeah why not? He interrupted the party, I think Questlove was DJing. We played it and the whole room — Chris Rock’s there, Louis C.K., everybody’s going crazy to the record. It was the illest way in the world to premiere a record.
AllHipHop: What was it like seeing everyone react to it?
Statik Selektah: It was a moment, it was really dope. She’s putting altoids into salt, what are you doing baby? [talks to daughter]
AllHipHop: She’s so cute! How do you deal with the cuteness?
Statik Selektah: She’s one of one, that’s my best friend right there. Right Harley? You’re my best friend. She’s wearing the Michael Jackson jacket, she loves Michael Jackson. [laughs]
AllHipHop: She playing “Thriller” a lot?
Statik Selektah: 20 times a day. [laughs] She’s on the album. She’s on the last song as Harley Harl.
AllHipHop: Is she usually in the studio with you when you’re cooking up?
Statik Selektah: Nah, she goes there occasionally. She knows her way around the studio.
AllHipHop: Ninth studio album, how are you feeling?
Statik Selektah: I feel good, this album has a certain connection to people. Everybody had a balancing act of a year, it came out at the right time. Timing’s everything, I really appreciate all the love.
AllHipHop: You got legends, you got the current hot artists. Everyone from Nas to Jack Harlow to Bun B, how do you choose who to include?
Statik Selektah: It’s all really the homies. Everybody I got on my album, I consider a friend. I’m obviously a fan of all of them. I didn’t want to force nothing, didn’t want to chase nobody around. It was a very organic album.
AllHipHop: Talk about the cover art and all the layers that it embodies. You’re holding your daughter, I see New York, I see dice.
Statik Selektah: It’s all the different elements, because life is definitely about balance. I live a crazy life. Obviously this year has been more calm because I haven’t toured as much but even before this I’d be with Harley until 8:30pm, then go to the studio and the club. Repeat the next day. On one hand is the dice, the DJ equipment, the city, the bright lights, but at the end of the day, this one‘s the priority. It’s the balance, all parents can relate to that. Especially this year with the homeschooling, which is brutal.
AllHipHop: Besides “Keep It Moving,” What songs mean the most to you and why?
Statik Selektah: Jack Harlow hit a certain note with “Time” definitely, especially when he talks about Mac Miller. “Way Up” is a really personal record because it’s about Pimp C and Prodigy, Havoc hasn’t really touched on that since Prodigy died. When I sent it to Havoc, he got chills. He hit me back like “I needed this.”
AllHipHop: How’s it feel to have a mural in New York?
Statik Selektah: There’s a couple, it’s great. Shout out to Monster Energy and Mass Appeal for making it happen. They got over 700 wheatpastes in the city, it’s everywhere. A billboard went up today in Bushwick, it’s cool.
AllHipHop: Do you miss Boston?
Statik Selektah: I miss certain things. Obviously I miss my family up there, the food. I love the food in Boston, but I’m much more of a New York lifestyle speed. It’s a lot faster here, been here for 16 years.
AllHipHop: You say the album reminds us of how powerful hip hop is. What was the moment you fell in love with hip-hop?
Statik Selektah: Absolutely, A Tribe Called Quest “Scenario” video. I must’ve been 9 years old, whatever that is I want in. I’d heard hip hop before that, but that’s the moment I got sucked into the game. I decided I want to be a DJ when I was 13. Originally, I was buying KRS-One and Tribe Called Quest. As a kid I had the MC Hammer’s, but my favorite was Tribe. To this day, the fact that I’ve got to tour with Q-Tip around the world. When Busta’s part comes on in “Scenario,” I do the verse which is hilarious.
AllHipHop: You’re rapping it?
Statik Selektah: Yeah. That’s part of Tip’s rules, whoever’s DJing has to do the verse when it comes on in “Scenario.” It’s really been me and Scratch, besides Ali Shaheed Muhammad.
AllHipHop: Do you use any analog gear anymore?
Statik Selektah: I’m not good at it, but besides that, not really. Everything’s digital. Vinyl, I sample off records obviously.
AllHipHop: How much do you miss deejaying live?
Statik Selektah: I still DJ every week. I DJed a festival last month, it was really bizarre upstate New York. It was a cult of hippies, mad weird but it was fun. I DJ on my own a lot. Obviously my radio show, I’ve been on Shade 45 for 15 years now.
AllHipHop: I’ve been wanting to show you this! I have a tattoo, it says “Love Is Only A Feeling.”
Statik Selektah: You do? It’s crazy because I thought it was such a sleeper. I looked at the Spotify numbers, that song has 60 million on Spotify. I couldn’t believe that.
AllHipHop: I love that song, can you bring us back to when you made that record?
Statik Selektah: It’s actually a really cool story. We’re in Canada on tour, the driver’s bringing us in an artist van to the show: me, Joey, Kirk Knight. The song’s on the radio, everybody looked at each other like “yo this is fire. What is this?” We Shazamed it, nothing came up and the song ended before we could try to Shazam it again. Oh no! I asked “what radio station is this?” The guy told me. I Googled the radio station, called the station, asked the DJ. It’s a college radio station, the DJ told me what it was. I went home, chopped it up.
While we’re on tour, we rented out Tree Sound in Atlanta. A very young and unheard of at that point, Westside Gunn drove us in the studio from the show, Joey didn’t know who he was. We went in there and did the song, put it out as part of a 3-pack. Everybody loves “500 Benz,” but we really thought “Too Lit” and “500 Benz” were the ones. “Love Is Only A Feeling” performed a lot better. It’s a great song though, shout out to the original group Homeshake too.
AllHipHop: How has your relationship with Joey evolved over the years?
Statik Selektah: I’m so proud of that kid. He’s an old soul. He’s 13 years younger than me but at times, I’ve learned from him. I don’t usually learn from younger cats like that. Joey’s a great dad, he’s an amazing actor. He’s killing it, I’m proud of him. I’m excited for people to hear the new album.
AllHipHop: When’s that coming?
Statik Selektah: It’s like Detox, there’s 40 versions of it. It’s coming. We had a blast making it, we went out to the Bahamas on this top secret trip. We’re riding around with golf carts in this private community. It was shut down because it was hurricane season, the place was deserted. We’re there for 8 days working on the album, incredible experience.
AllHipHop: Someone asked how did you Dreamlife for the first time? Both of them are his biggest inspiration.
Statik Selektah: I met Dreamlife through CJ Fly, he saved a lot of my music. There’s been situations with either Joey, Wiz Khalifa, The Lox, different people and we couldn’t clear a certain sample. Every time he replays it and does something incredible. A lot of this album came out with Vintage Vxndals which is Dreamlife’s crew, original samples so I didn’t have to worry about clearing the samples because it was all original.
AllHipHop: Goals you have for yourself at this point?
Statik Selektah: I got a couple I can’t talk about, the ball’s rolling on them. Definitely more movies and TV stuff as far as scoring and video games. Definitely this 2 Chainz album finally wrapping up, we’ve been working on it for so long. Everybody that hears it goes crazy. I produced 2 Chainz whole album, I’m happy about that. He’s an independent artist now too. Me and Black Thought got something coming.
AllHipHop: I know he’s on the intro track to your album!
Statik Selektah: Yeah, I had to beef with him about that. He wanted to use it for something else and I said “bro, it’s the perfect intro.” I had to send him the last couple of seconds of the song going into the next song, I said “look how perfect it is!” He’s like “since you got it all figured out already…”
AllHipHop: When are we going to see Statik Selektah on Broadway?
Statik Selektah: [laughs] That ain’t my scene. Shout out to Hamilton, I did a remix for one of the songs. I don’t think it got used, but I got to work over there. Shout out to Riggs who put all that together.
AllHipHop: What’s one thing you want fans to get from the project?
Statik Selektah: I want it to be timeless to the point where people hear it and remember what we’re going through now and be appreciative of everything. This year, a new value of life was acknowledged by people. Life is fragile. Hopefully when people go back and listen to these songs years from now, they’re like “oh wow, what a time that was.” It really timestamps 2020.
AllHipHop: Anything else you want to let us know?
Statik Selektah: Appreciate all the love. Keep streaming it. Keep buying it. It’s all love. I really appreciate everybody. The love has been crazy with this album.
Through hustle, resolve and a magnetic persona, Dubbo has transcended Texas’ competitive ranks to command the New York-based label’s attention. The burgeoning rapper has cultivated a strong regional reputation by maximizing his immediate resources and surroundings to manifest his artistic vision. Dubbo’s online music presence is formidable, anchored by boisterous singles, spirited local concerts, and a collection of provocative videos co-starring his close friends and collaborators.
As a part of his deal with Babygrande, Dubbo has struck a joint venture label deal for his Texas-based imprint, Double O Records, which will be helmed by indie executives Donnie Cash and Cady Falkner.
In tandem with Double O Records, Babygrande has also signed producer Zack Ingraham (PKA “Bird”), and his production and studio footprint, The Bird House. Not only is Bird Dubbo’s lead sonic architect, his The Bird House operation is a multifaceted music hub that will supplement Double O Records’ potential through its studio capabilities, artist development arm, content prowess, and more. Under the The Bird House banner, Bird will also be producing a series of producer albums for Babygrande.
Double O Records and The Bird House are two movements that impart a palpable synergy, evidenced by Bird and Dubbo’s extensive collaborative catalogue. The Babygrande expansion comes at an auspicious time for the company, as 2021 will mark the independent label’s 20th anniversary.
“Dubbo is an extraordinary talent and businessman. He built a true machine at The Bird House with his producer Bird and Donnie Cash. It feels great to empower like-minded entrepreneurs that have already demonstrated that they know what it takes to be successful. Babygrande’s role is to nurture and enhance what has already been built. Our network and history in Texas, in Austin and at SXSW dates back decades. This is a great fit for all involved,” says Babygrande CEO, Chuck Wilson.
Commemorating the robust signing, Babygrande Records has released Dubbo’s premiere single and video with the label, “Ben10.”
The raucous Bird-produced record is an apt microcosm for Dubbo’s aesthetic: it’s menacing, ominous, assertive — and it’s incredibly infectious. On “Ben10,” Dubbo personifies the eerie, booming instrumental by delivering a barrage of haunting bars that take the listener down the precarious path of his everyday life. The bubbling rapper’s belligerent flow and cadence vividly depict his reality. Dubbo is well-versed in the trappings of the trenches.
After earning his stripes in Austin, Dubbo is poised to claim his place atop Texas’ iceberg of talent. He’s clawed his way up the ladder, and has a singular mission in mind: to make his Texas Double O movement a worldwide phenomenon. By the sound and vision of his premiere Babygrande Records offering, coupled with his seat at the head of Double O Records’ table and ongoing working relationship with The Bird House, Dubbo’s goals are within sight.
Zeus Rebels Waters leads his new album Long Way From Home with the blazing new single LUV. This powerful new song has speaker moving production along with lyrics that the “real” will “LUV”. Be sure to check out the LUV video on YouTube and streaming everywhere!
Zeus Rebel Waters is an American hip hop artist/songwriter, entrepreneur, single-dad,
community leader and philanthropist. The St. Louis native brings a distinct sound and style to
hip hop known simply as Gumbo – a gritty blend of all genres mixed with melodic cadence and eclectic rhymes.
The indie rapper brings a raw energy to the stage and unleashes it to all his fellow Rebels making his live show an experience of high-intensity, positive vibes. His breakout record “Like This” from the album Escaped Off The Chains received placement in TV commercials, NFL games, the Rogue Pictures film Waist Deep, and hit drama series The Sopranos.
From humble beginnings, Waters has become a major player throughout the bi-state region. Now, the deity rapper is setting his sights on the global market. With business ventures in fashion, film, and community development, Zeus’ imprint goes far beyond bars and tracks. Make no mistake, Zeus Rebel Waters is here!
Tayla Parx is far more than just a songwriter, she’s a recording artist in her own right. Having lent her strong pen game to Ariana Grande’s“7 Rings” and “thank u, next,” along with
Panic! At The Disco’s double-Platinum “High Hopes,” the Dallas, Texas native knows a thing or two about hit records — and she’s applying it to her own artistry.
Most recently, Tayla unveiled the official music video to her new single titled “Ain’t A Lonely Christmas Song,” in perfect timing for the holidays. AllHipHop was present for the watch party sponsored by Jack Daniels.
Speaking on the inspiration behind the record, Tayla states, “This is one of the first times that I’m spending a Christmas with somebody that really, really means a lot to me — outside of my family, of course. But in a relationship sense, this is our second Christmas together now. I’m like, “Okay! This is awesome. Here we go again’.”
When asked about her favorite iconic Christmas song from one of the greats, she answers with Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas.” She explains, “I grew up singing that record, it was one of the records I remember hearing every single holiday in my home.”
Chancelor “Chance The Rapper” Bennett has partnered with Facebook’s Oculus Venues for a special concert experience. The three-time Grammy winner will present the 1-hour Chi-Town Christmas film in virtual reality.
Chi-Town Christmas will also be available for streaming on YouTube and Instagram. Chance’s ode to the holiday season and his hometown follows the release of the joint album, Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama: The Gift That Keeps on Giving, with R&B singer Jeremih.
Theconcert film will include visuals and live vocal performances from Merry Christmas Lil’ Mama: The Gift That Keeps on Giving. Filmed entirely in Chicago, Chi-Town Christmas was written and directed by Chance. Keith Walker is credited as the cinematographer.
What started as playful banter on social media could actually lead to a biographical television series. Soul legend Dionne Warwick has been using her Twitter account to entertain her followers by interacting with modern-day musicians like Chance The Rapper and The Weeknd.
Teyana Taylor was also one of the contemporary stars that got the Twitter-finger co-sign when Warwick acknowledged the two vocalists closely resemble each other. The 80-year-old superstar then took it a step further by directly tagging Netflix in a tweet about wanting Taylor to portray her in a potential biopic.
“This is a case for @netflix. Please don’t ask who I would cast to play me as it would obviously be @TEYANATAYLOR,” tweeted Warwick along with a video of her asking her fans if they would actually watch a scripted program covering her life and career. The verified Netflix Twitter account replied to Warwick by writing, “taking notes.”
Teyana Taylor, who starred in TV shows such as The Breaks and Hit the Floor as well as Netflix’s The After Party movie, seemed open to the idea of portraying the “I Say a Little Prayer” singer. Taylor simply posted ten raising hands emoji as a quote-tweet reply to Warwick’s video. She also tweeted a clapper board emoji in response to Netflix.
The E-40 and Too Short Verzuz matchup is set to take place this Saturday, November 19. Before fans get to experience the two Bay Area icons present their respective music catalogs, both rappers joined forces to release a bundled album on December 18.
Too $hort will be releasing his 22nd solo studio album, Ain’t Gone Do It, via Trunk Productions. E-40 will be releasing his 27th solo studio album, Terms and Conditions, via Heavy on The Grind Entertainment. Both efforts are dropping as one packaged 20-track project.
Ain’t Gone Do It will feature E-40, G-Eazy, Mistah F.A.B., Guapdad 4000, and more. Terms and Conditions will feature Too $hort, Freddie Gibbs, G-Eazy, Brent Faiyaz, and more. The AGDIT/TAC bundle follows E-40 and Too $hort’s collaborative History double album from 2012.
The next Verzuz event is scheduled to begin streaming on Instagram and Apple Music at 8 pm ET/5 pm PT. To promote the forthcoming friendly faceoff, $hort and E-40 also filmed video spots with Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry and Portland Trailblazers star Damian Lillard.
Too $hort’s Ain’t Gone Do It Tracklist:
“Ain’t Gone Do It” ft. E-40 (produced by ProHoeZak)
“Oaklandish” ft. Guapdad 4000 and Rayven Justice (produced by Ekzakt)
“Digital Trick” ft. Mistah F.A.B. (produced by Ekzakt and Syrum)
“Pimpin’s All I Know” ft. Tiny MD (produced by AyDiosMio)
“10k Remix” ft. Bosslife Big Spence & G-Eazy (produced by Drew Banga)
“Real Oakland” ft. Reg Black (produced by Kamoshun)
“Triple Gold Sox” ft. E-40 (produced by Any Banks)
“Good P-ssy Walk” ft. Rayven Justice (Produced by Nonstop Da Hitman)
“I Stay Up” ft. Zyah Belle (produced by Ryan Hartung)
“F-ck Yo Speakers” (produced by Bosslife Big Spence)
E-40’s Terms and Conditions Tracklist:
“Making a Play” ft. Turf Talk & Stresmatic (produced by Rick Rock)
“MOB” (produced by The Mekanix)
“Still” ft. Blxst & Drakeo the Ruler (produced By OG Parker & Smash David & Bass Charity)
“Pass the Chalice” ft. Symba & Capolow (produced by Helluva)
“Girl I See You Winning” ft. G-Eazy & Gashi (produced by Mally Mall & Diego Ave)
“Swangin” ft. Brent Faiyaz & Too $hort (produced By Lil Rece)
“Dapper Don” ft. Freddie Gibbs, Larry June & Kid3rd (produced By Scoop DeVille)
“Dress Like a D-Boy” ft. Stresmatic (produced By Rick Rock)
“Tricks” ft. Too $hort & Pimpin Ken (produced by Ekzakt & Julia Lewis)
“P’s and Q’s” ft. Trae Suave (produced By Bedrock)
2020 was a breakout year for Roddy Ricch. He won a Grammy award for his contribution to Nipsey Hussle’s “Racks in the Middle,” spent 18 total weeks at #1 on the Hot 100 chart, and his Please Excuse Me for Being Antisocial project moved 1.7 million units.
Ricch was also recognized twice at the Second Annual Apple Music Awards. He won the streaming service’s Top Song of the Year for “The Box” and Top Album of the Year for Please Excuse Me for Being Antisocial.
In celebration of his Apple Music wins, Ricch performed a 16-minute set of his biggest hits. The Compton-raised emcee ran through “War Baby,” “Start Wit Me,” “Rockstar,” “The Box,” “High Fashion,” and “Ballin’.”
“My first phone was the iPhone. It’s crazy making music could get me to the point where a platform like Apple could honor me or put me on a pedestal. I just appreciate Apple Music to the farthest extent,” said Ricch.
The 22-year-old Atlantic recording artist continued, “Winning this award motivates me to work even harder. This is confirmation that I am on the right track and doing what I gotta do to be the greatest in my own right.”
