(AllHipHop News) There were a lot of questions directed at The Breakfast Club for conducting a simulcast with Rush Limbaugh. The on-air discussion with the über-conservative radio personality took place as the country was dealing with the murder of African-American George Floyd by white Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin.
Veteran broadcast journalist Soledad O’Brien was a guest on a recent episode of The Breakfast Club. O’Brien immediately asked DJ Envy, Angela Yee, and Charlamagne Tha God why they chose to provide a platform to a person critics believe purposely downplays white supremacy and anti-black racism.
“What happened was, we all work for iHeartMedia. So being that we all work for iHeartMedia that was a corporate call,” admitted Charlamagne. “Corporate convinced us that it would be a good idea because Rush had the whole thing about George Floyd [being killed] was wrong and police need to be held accountable and he wants this to change, he wants George Floyd to be the last one. They were like it would be like a building of bridges, two different worlds coming together.”
The Breakfast Club/The Rush Limbaugh Show conversation made national news headlines, but not for promoting unity. Media outlets focused more on Limbaugh claiming that white privilege and white supremacy does not exist and his specific partisan targeting of liberals and the Democratic Party.
Charlamagne also told O’Brien, “The problem with somebody like Rush is he doesn’t want to deal with the reality of white privilege and the reality of systemic racism and white supremacy. So, therefore, you can’t ever get to what the real issue is.”
Angela Yee added, “It wasn’t us pitching like, ‘We would love to get Rush on the show.’ But the idea was we are all interested about what happened to George Floyd and wanting to make sure that those police officers do end up getting charged. So the idea was we all believe that this should happen, so it was supposed to be just about that one thing we do agree on – those police officers need to be charged. And [Limbaugh] wanted to have us on [his show] because he doesn’t engage with people like us.”
(AllHipHop News) Teyana Taylor season is almost upon us. The Harlem-raised singer/songwriter/dancer/actress/director is bringing the heat this summer with new music and new makeup.
Def Jam Recordings revealed Taylor’s forthcoming project, titled The Album, will be released on June 19. The studio LP is set to feature her daughter Junie, her husband Iman Shumpert, Rick Ross, Erykah Badu, Quavo, Kehlani, Missy Elliott, Future, Big Sean, Ms. Lauryn Hill, and more.
The Album is the official follow-up to 2018’s K.T.S.E. which hosted the songs “Gonna Love Me” and “Rose in Harlem.” Taylor’s discography also includes 2014’s VII. Both previous bodies of work peaked in the Top 20 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Additionally, Teyana Taylor collaborated with M·A·C for a new line of cosmetics. The upcoming collection was inspired by the 29-year-old New Yorker’s love for classic fashion and beauty from the 1990s.
“I’m very excited to be partnering with a company like M·A·C who I’ve watched collaborate with strong women of color over the years. I’ve been a fan of M·A·C ever since I was 15 years old and started experimenting with makeup, it was the first brand that made me like makeup,’ says Taylor.
The Teyana and Iman reality showstarcontinues, “I’m so grateful and excited to be sharing this beautiful collection I created with the M·A·C team but also hoping to inspire other young women that anything and everything is possible.”
Ukonwa Ojo, Global Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President, Global Marketing for M·A·C Cosmetics, adds, “As a longtime friend of the brand, we’ve grown to know and love Teyana for having a style unlike anyone else. She’s fierce, bold and unapologetically herself, no matter what she’s wearing – all qualities we stand for at M·A·C, and are so excited to bring to life through this new collaboration.”
A Twitter user tagged Cardi in a tweet that said, “Hey… we’re ready for new tunes.” She replied, “I’m coming.” Another user asked, “okay but when sus i’m desperate.” The rap superstar responded, “It’s coming. Its going to hit too!!!”
As far as songs, Cardi has been relatively quiet in 2020. “Press” was her last lead single. That record was released in May 2019. The Top 3 hit “Please Me” with Bruno Mars also came out last year.
In 2019, Cardi appeared on other tracks like Offset’s “Clout,” Ed Sheeran’s “South of the Border” with Camila Cabello, French Montana’s “Writing on the Wall” with Post Malone, and Fat Joe’s “Yes” with Anuel AA. In addition, Cardi and Anuel showed up on the “La Bebe Remix” in May of this year.
(AllHipHop News) It looks like some of the celebration for Tekashi 6ix9ine and Nicki Minaj’s “Trollz” music video was premature. After reports initially stated the visuals set a new 24-hour views record for Hip Hop acts, that claim is now being pulled back.
According toXXL, a YouTube representative confirmed that “Trollz” was actually 6.4 million views short of the record. In May, 6ix9ine’s “Gooba” collected 38.9 million views in its first 24 hours on the platform breaking the record set by Eminem’s “Kill Shot” (38.1 million).
Minaj wrote on her Instagram page about supposedly pulling in 46 million plays for the “Trollz” video on its first day of release. 6ix9ine also uploaded an IG message about supposedly setting a new YouTube record, but he has since deleted that post.
The discrepancy in the numbers for the “Trollz” video (32.5 million versus 46 million) appears to be connected to “paid advertising views.” YouTube’s 24-hour record debut policy reads:
Videos eligible for YouTube’s 24-hour record debuts are those with the highest views from organic sources within the first 24 hours of the video’s public release. This includes direct links to the video, search results, external sites that embed the video and YouTube features like the homepage, watch next and Trending. Video advertising is an effective way to reach specific audiences with a song debut, but paid advertising views on YouTube will no longer be considered when looking at a 24-hour record debut.
Both 6ix9ine and Nicki Minaj have been heavily promoting “Trollz” on social media. They have also offered different versions of YouTube content related to the track. Multiple merchandise/digital download bundle options – such as hoodies, vinyl, and cassettes- are also available for what seems to be a major push to get the record to #1 on Billboard‘s Hot 100 chart.
(AllHipHop News) Two of the most successful new rappers are once again sitting atop the Hot 100. DaBaby’s “Rockstar” featuring Roddy Ricch spent a second straight week in the pole position of Billboard‘s main song chart.
“Rockstar” also held onto the #1 spot on the Streaming Songs chart (35.7 million streams) for the fourth week. The Blame It on Baby single is #1 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs and Hot Rap Songs charts as well.
Roddy Ricch has dominated the Hot 100 in 2020. His solo record “The Box” led the rankings for 11 weeks from January to March, giving him a total of 13 weeks at the summit.
The rest of this week’s Top 5 includes Megan Thee Stallion’s “Savage” featuring Beyoncé (#2), The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” (#3), Doja Cat’s “Say So” (#4), and Justin Bieber’s “Intentions” featuring Quavo (#5). “The Box” remained at #9.
Michael Epps is quickly becoming a favorite in the entertainment industry, not only through the small screen but also with music. The child star on the rise is best known for playing Jake on Showtime’s award-winning series The Chi, created by the one and only Lena Waithe. The show follows a group of locals on the South Side of Chicago who come together through the need for connection and redemption. Fans of The Chi can look forward to Season 3 slated to premiere on June 21st of this year.
Born in Virginia, Michael moved to Chicago before he could even talk or walk. Regardless, Michael always knew he wanted to follow in his mother’s footsteps and act. His first audition resulted in an extra role on FOX’s Empire. Last year, he also released his debut single “Drip,” proving there’s no limits when it comes to doing what you love.
AllHipHop caught up with Michael Epps via Zoom to discuss his experience filming The Chi, his character Jake, working with Luke James, and more!
AllHipHop: How’s quarantining over there in Chicago?
Michael Epps: I’m doing alright. I get to stay in the house all day, that’s the good part about it. I like working on set too, but I also like staying in the house. If there’s nothing to do, I want to get out.
AllHipHop: How did you get your start in acting? I know your mom played a big influence.
Michael Epps: I started acting real young. It started with a small Youtube series that my mom was originally on. She saw how well I took directions on the series, she asked me “what about acting?” I never thought about acting, so I said “nah, but we could give it a try.” She decided to dip my toes in that and now here I am. This is how Jake was created.
AllHipHop: What were you doing on Youtube series?
Michael Epps: I was on one episode, I had a small little part. I played my mom’s son. I came in from school one day, I was sitting on the table doing homework. Real small. If it was in the real acting world, it’d be like an extra role.
AllHipHop: How has your experience been filming The Chi?
Michael Epps: It was a great experience! The Chi was the first thing I ever booked, my first big role! It was a new experience, I got to meet new people. It was real fun because it’s something I’d never done before, something I’d never ever thought I’d see myself doing. When I actually got to experience it, I was real shocked. It went by so fast. We filmed for probably 4 to 6 months.
AllHipHop: How would you describe your character Jake for those who haven’t seen the show?
Michael Epps: Jake is a kid who struggles to find the right guidance in life. He doesn’t really know what he wants to do in life, because he doesn’t have a good father figure to look up to. His brother had been raising him, but his brother hasn’t been doing a real good job raising him because his brother has him in the streets. To Jake, being in the streets is something cool. That’s what he wants to grow up and do. But to his other friends and people looking from the outside, they’re like “that’s not it.” Jake doesn’t know it’s not a good thing because that’s what he grew up on and was around his whole life, but now he knows. Coming up in the new season, you’ll see all that.
AllHipHop: What’s your relationship w/ Lena Waithe?
Michael Epps: I have a real cool relationship with Lena, we all do. We barely see Lena around. In this upcoming season, she guest stars and we all got to be around her more. It’s great, we all have a good relationship with Lena.
AllHipHop: How was filming with Luke James?
Michael Epps: It was real fun! So fun shooting with Luke James because he comes on set with the biggest energy in the world. He has the most energy out of everybody. It could be 4 in the morning, 5 in the morning, everybody’s walking on set and they’re all tired. Here comes Luke singing about everything! His response, everything’s a song. He makes a song out of everything. It’s amazing shooting with Luke, it really is.
AllHipHop: What can we expect from Season 3?
Michael Epps: You can expect a lot of cliffhangers, real things that go on in the real world. It’s a lot. You have to stay tuned and watch season 3.
AllHipHop: Last year, you released your debut single “Drip.” Did music or acting come first?
Michael Epps: Music just came in the picture, it’s something I wanted to try. We got in the studio, we’re messing around and we made “Drip.” We wanted to see how far music could go. We wanted to give myself different things.
AllHipHop: What’s the creative process like in the studio versus on set?
Michael Epps: In the studio, I was more comfortable. I got comfortable faster in the studio than on set because when we’re in the studio, it’s with a family friend. Plus the studio I recorded in was a closed room, so nobody could see me. It’s just me in there, I got settled in way faster than I did on set.
AllHipHop: Are you still making music?
Michael Epps: Not at the moment because of quarantine. When quarantine’s over, most definitely. I’ll be back in the studio.
AllHipHop: Who’s your Top 5?
Michael Epps: Lil Baby, Lil Durk, G Herbo, Polo G, and Moneybagg Yo.
AllHipHop: Goals for yourself as an actor/artist at this point in your career?
Michael Epps: A goal for me as an actor, I want to get so big in the acting world that I don’ t even have to audition anymore. They just call my phone offering me the role. “Hey, we got this movie for you. We’re offering you this much.” I don’t even have to go in and audition! In the artist world, same thing. I have labels calling my phone. Artists calling my phone to do features for me, I don’t have to reach out to them. It’s a lot, I have a lot of goals.
AllHipHop: What do you think it’s going to take to get to the point where they’re just calling you up?
Michael Epps: It’s going to be a process to get there. It’s going to take a lot of hard work, a lot.
AllHipHop: How was the auditioning process before you finally landed the role as Jake?
Michael Epps: I wouldn’t say hard. My very first few auditions were in pilot season, that’s when I got the audition for Jake. I was auditioning for 3 straight days and The Chi was one of them. Originally I went to audition for Coogi, but they sent me back for Jake. That next day, I got the call back for that. The very next day, I went in for the second audition. Some weeks later, they called my phone saying I’d got it.
AllHipHop: Do you have any advice for somebody who wants to do what you do?
Michael Epps: My advice for upcoming actors is you have to have perseverance. You have to be consistent with it. You’re not going to get your first role ASAP, right off the bat. It’s going to be months, probaby years! You never know. You have to keep going. You can’t be quick to give up, because you’re going to get a role eventually.
AllHipHop: What can we look forward to next?
Michael Epps: When quarantine is over, more music. Thinking about dropping a clothing brand, some merch. Right now, what we have in mind for the name is Crown Me. We’re working on it. I was meant for this crown!
AllHipHop: How excited are you for Season 3 to air?
Michael Epps: I am so, so excited! This is going to be the best season yet, because of everything they touch on. I’m so excited for season 3, you don’t understand! Oh my gosh, can’t wait!
(AllHipHop News) There is something heartbreaking about the reality of Hip-Hop.
Like there is a real pain that you feel when you realize that all the jewelry and cars in most of the videos that you see YouTube … are rented.
The collective WTF you bark once you find out that the millions of albums that your favorite rapper sold and the ca-zillion of times you heard your jam played on the radio (or even worse streamed on your phone) only profited him or her a couple of thousand dollars.
The disappointment found when the blinders are ripped from your eyes —and the truth about the lucrativeness rap industry (or the lack thereof) —is laid out in front of you.
It indeed is tragic. When a big-time rapper like Young Buck with millions of fans is launching a “1 Buck for Buck” campaign on either CashApp or GoFundMe.
It indeed is what the Hip-Hop community felt when they not only saw that former G-Unit rapper Young Buck filed for bankruptcy (and so what that means nothing because we know that is a tool of the rich), but that he only had about $100 to his name.
As noted in the previous report, he allegedly made about $100,000 over the last three years. Still, Uncle Sam is scratching at his door for $415,892.04 for back texas accumulated over half a decade (2014 – 2019).
While his former boss, 50 Cent wants an undisclosed amount for business, the “10 Bricks,” “10 Bodies” and “10 Bullets” rapper did with G-Unit.
But according to new documents, he does not have anything. When he was moving around, the court papers said that he was living off his woman and that he had no property or assets of note. The rapper has $100 worth of clothes and $100 worth of jewelry.
Now, what kind of Osh Kosh B’gosh does this fool think we will believe? You believe that a grown rap star has $100 worth of jewelry and where did he get it …Etsy?
Well, it might be true.
Son jumped online and asked fans to give him at least one buck in a GoFundme campaign. That just had to make you think that it’s been a long time since the Tennessee rapper famously rapped, “Money in the Bank.”
On a video, he is seen humbly petitioning support:
“Listen up world, I just seen in the headlines what they were saying, I only got $100 in my pocket, I only got $100 worth of clothes, $100 worth of jewelry — s##t like that,” said the rapper in a new video. “I figure now is the perfect time to go there and start a GoFundMe. Send me $1, that’s all I need. Just $1, man.”
Well over the weekend, he posted another response on Instagram stating that the money raised was not actually to help him personally but to start a not-for-profit he is starting.
That’s good to know. Here is another tip that Run from RUN-DMC told Russell Simmons about philanthropic work, and it may really help Buck moving forward, “You can’t help the poor if you are one of them.”
(AllHipHop News) It seems that Los Angeles Confidential is not losing sleep over an order to pay what he weighs for an alleged sexual assault.
Reality show actor, Priscilla Rainey is about to be a millionaire after a judge ordered West coast rapper, The Game to pay her $7.13 million in damages for an alleged sexual assault perpetrated in 2015 during the raping of the VH1 dating show, “She’s Got Game.”
Quite a pretty penny, but to the “My Life” rapper, he says “I’d still be good & happy … money ain’t s##t.”
Originally Rainey sued the rapper, whose real name is Jayceon Terrell Taylor, for $10 million. However, that number was reduced.
The case never actually played out in court as The Game never showed up to defend himself. As a result, the judge made a ruling, ordering him to pay $7.1 million for damages that she was seeking.
And yup … if The Game refuses or tries to stop her from getting the money awarded to her he might be held in contempt of court and face jail time.
The Game expressed that he was not concerned about Rainey or the courts in a comment to one of his followers.
“Even if I did lose $7 million which I haven’t I’d still be good & happy,” Game wrote on social media. “Money ain’t s##t but thin wood and doesn’t matter in my life…I’ve had it, sent it thrown it, and given it.”
(AllHipHop News) If Black people drank the Kool-Aid of Post-Racialism, 2020 reminded them that despite how good it might have tasted — that s##t wasn’t real juice.
The fraudulent drink, mostly made of sugar, food coloring, and water is just as nutritious to the African American community as the myth that after a Black president, systemic racism was a thing of the past.
If three and a half years of President Trump was not enough, perhaps the entire first half of 2020 did the job.
Between the tragic deaths of Pop Smoke, Little Richard, Andre Harrell, Minnie from “Little Women of Atlanta” (Pastor Troy’s jawn), Betty Wright, Bonnie Pointer, Bill Withers, Kenny “MutherFlubbin” Rogers who is Black by default for making “The Gambler” and “Lady” with Lionel Richie, Thelma from “Good Times,” The Rock’s Daddy Poppa Rock Johnson, and Kobe Bryant and the COVID-19 that killed the economy and so many people from the community, it seems that the year has something out for our people.
Now the amplification of police-involved (or police-adjacent) violence against people of color caught on camera has sparked a global revolution displayed by civil unrest, protest, and riots.
It has also unearthed the ugliness of white supremacy and national blue fear.
While the names of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George “Big Floyd” Floyd, Javier Ambler, and now Rayshard Brooks are seared in our consciousness (mostly because we saw them die in front of our face) … it is quite simply hard for the average person to breathe.
The Brooks family had a press conference adding their voice to the tragic song of 2020.
One cousin said, “If you ask how this young Black man was, look at your children when you see them laugh. That innocence. That joy. That pureness of soul. Then you will have a glimpse of what we lost. You will have a glimpse of what it feels like because tomorrow we are going to have to deal with it again. We gonna have to bury him. We gonna have to say we miss you.”
“And if we didn’t have to say, ‘I love you’ enough, we gonna have to apologize to him for not telling him that we loved him that much.”
While those heartfelt words were powerful, it was his wife, Tomika Miller’s plea to have the protesters demonstrate peacefully that resonated responsibly.
As she stood there with their three small children, she asked everyone to remember her man positively and thanked people and strangers that she never even knew, for their prayers and support.
Miller never thought that she too, would be thrust into the toxic memory of the first half of the year, but with the powerful vibration of justice that is arising, perhaps her tears and advocacy, the legacy of Brooks’ life and the promise of his children will be a part of the change that is sure to come.
(AllHipHop News) On May 20th, BET announced that despite the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, the network will still have their annual awards ceremony.
On June 28th, the 2020 BET Awards will continue its tradition of celebrating the very best in Black music, during the month dedicated to its salute.
In a statement, BET offered earlier this Spring, “Using an array of innovative techniques and artist-generated content, the show will continue, allowing the audience to join in a celebration of Black love, joy, pride, and power with an all-star lineup.”
But they did not announce the nominees … not until today!
And let each year, the people up for the coveted awards are sure to spark conversation, high fives, and gas faces across the culture.
Leading the nods is Mr. OVO himself, Drake.
The Champagne Papi’s six nominations include best Male Hip-Hop Artist, Video of the Year, and two opportunities at the Best Collaboration and Viewer’s Choice, for his features with Future (“Life Is Good”) and Chris Brown (“No Guidance”).
Also basking in a pool of accolades are Nipsey Hussle protégé Roddy Ricch and Houston native Megan Thee Stallion. The two newbies both share five nominees apiece.
The “Savage” emcee is up for Best Female Hip Hop Artist, Best Collaboration, Album of the Year, and Video of the Year. Ricch finds himself up against Drake for Best Male Hip-Hop Artist. He will duke it out with Meg on Album of the Year.
All three are fighting to get that Video of the Year trophy.
Ricch made his mark this year as a new artist and will challenge some other movers and shakers that have established themselves as stream sensations: DaniLeigh, Lil Nas X, Pop Smoke, Summer Walker, and YBN Cordae.
Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Chris Brown, DaBaby, and Lizzo have four nominations for their hard work last year.
Even with the adjusted format, fans will still get to see all 21 categories that highlight Black excellence in music, sports, film, and television.
While nominations have been revealed, the hub that Stephen Grant Hill built still has some tricks up its sleeve. The brand will announce this year’s Humanitarian and Lifetime Achievement honorees in the near future.
(AllHipHop News) Rapper/actor T.I. joined protesters on the streets of Atlanta, Georgia over the weekend to demand justice for another African-American man shot and killed by police on Friday night.
Rayshard Brooks had fallen asleep in his car at a Wendy’s drive-through restaurant when he was approached by a white police officer, who was responding to a call about a possible driving under the influence (DUI) incident.
According to Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, the arresting officer in question has been fired, while the city’s Police Chief Erika Shields has stepped down over the incident, which occurs amid ongoing Black Lives Matter demonstrations calling for police accountability following the death of George Floyd at the hands of a white Minnesota police officer in late May.
T.I. was among the activists in Atlanta on Saturday, when he addressed those at the rally and called for unity to continue the fight to end police brutality.
Discussing Brooks’ death, he said, “I don’t give a damn what your opinion is of the person. I don’t give a damn what he did. The man didn’t deserve to die like that. And any policeman out here who stands behind that s**t your ass in trouble too.”
“We are going to have to organize,” he continued, according to video footage obtained by Radio.com. “We’re going to have to demonstrate but we are going to have to do it with purpose. And when I say purpose, I mean direction. We’ve got to go where we need to go and do what we need to do in those areas.”
The “Live Your Life” hitmaker wasn’t the only Atlanta hip-hop icon to condemn Brooks’ slaying.
Run the Jewels star Killer Mike shared his distress at the young man’s death in a lengthy post on Instagram, writing in part, “#RayshardBrooks should be alive this morning. He should be waking up (hungover or drunk in the tank depending on whether he was apprehended) and not dead.”
“I’m mad as hell and I am saddened beyond consolation,” he added.
Earlier today (June 15th) Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms announced she is signing a series of orders to reform the use of force.
Now cops will be required to try de-escalation tactics before they can use deadly force on a suspect. The officers will also be required to intervene if they see another cop acting out of line.
“This is the beginning of a great deal of work that lies ahead of us to make sure that we do all we can do to protect our communities,” Bottoms said. “It is very clear our police officers should be guardians and not warriors within our communities,” Mayor Bottoms said.
(AllHipHop News) Stormzy has urged the British public to never forget the Grenfell Tower fire in an emotional message to survivors on the third anniversary of the tragedy.
The massive blaze claimed the lives of 72 people back in 2017 after cladding attached to the outside of the west London social housing block caught fire.
The British rapper, who has long campaigned for justice for the victims, took part in a virtual memorial service marking the anniversary on YouTube on Sunday and told those who lost loved ones that he will never forget them and will continue to fight for their cause.
“I said I was just gonna put the camera on and just talk from my heart instead of trying to prepare anything, I didn’t want this to sound like it came from anywhere other than my heart,” Stormzy said.
“To all the people of Grenfell, we’re still mourning with you, so to anyone watching this let’s use this time, let’s use today to stand in solidarity with them and say that we ain’t forgotten you. We love you, we’re here for you.
Slamming the British government for failing to fully help those affected three years on, he added: “When the Government and powers that be have turned their back on you, we’re here. We’re here, we’ve got you, we’re not letting this go.”
Some former Grenfell residents are still yet to receive permanent new homes, while the government has also been criticized for failing to remove dangerous cladding similar to that which caused the tragedy from all other British tower blocks.
Urging Brits to continue to speak up about Grenfell, the Shut Up hitmaker went on: “It’s become my duty – and everyone else’s duty – to make sure we never forget this.
“Let this be a constant reminder, let this be a constant dark stain on British society in terms of that many lives lost and the world kept moving. There’s not been any justice. Let that be a constant reminder.”
Also taking part in the same ceremony was north Londoner Adele, with the superstar singer also calling for “answers and action.”
(AllHipHop News) Kanye West looks to be planning a foray into cosmetics after filing to register some related trademarks.
According to new legal papers obtained by TMZ, Yeezy bosses recently filed for a trademark in the company’s name which would cover beauty and skincare products, including make-up, facial masks, nail polish, moisturizers, hair care products, and perfumes, along with other items like toothpaste and deodorant.
It wouldn’t be the first attempt at a cosmetics launch for Kanye – back in 2017, he filed similar papers to secure the rights to DONDA brand cosmetics, named after his late mother, but the project never took off.
The star is no doubt encouraged to build his empire further, after Forbes chiefs named him the highest-paid musician globally in 2019 earlier this month, having banked $170 million thanks to earnings from his Yeezy sneakers deal with Adidas.
Kylie bagged the earnings chart’s top spot, with experts valuing her income at $590 million after she pocketed $540 million before tax by selling 51% of her Kylie Cosmetics firm to beauty retailer Coty.
(AllHipHop Features) Just when Hip-Hop has seen it all, the first bounty hunter enters the fray. Bounty Tank hits the hood with “Street N#99a” on June 15th and he’s got a clip-full of dreams to go with it. The Shad Hitz-produced song features Chip The Ripper. Bounty Tank and Chip hail from Cleveland and they tear into images and even stereotypes of street life. “This song are true stories of individuals losing their lives to the street and is really meant to change lives,” Bounty Jack says. “We are pushing for a change. It’s straight fire and has a deep message behind it.” says Bounty Tank.
But a bounty hunter in Hip-Hop? How does that work in a world of Black Lives Matter, rampant police brutality and also a music industry that allows Tekashi 69 prosper? Strange times, but Tank flips the coin back and back again as a badge-wearing bounty hunter and a Black man in America.
AllHipHop: You are a bounty hunter by trade, what made you decide to do that as a line of work to start?
Bounty Tank: I fell upon bounty hunting by happenstance. I finished nursing school but I knew that wasn’t what I wanted to do. I wanted a career that would allow me to put my alpha traits to use while still allowing me to help others. Initially, I looked into becoming a U.S. Marshall but at the time there was a hiring freeze. The opportunity to bounty hunt arose and I tried it out in a freelance matter and fell in love with it. I was good at it and it felt good and the rest is history.
AllHipHop: We have movements against police brutality in 2020 what is your stance on this as it relates to your line of work?
Bounty Tank: I am 100% “Black Lives Matter”. I agree that a change is needed and for as long as I can remember I’ve felt this way. I’ve witnessed and experienced officers abusing their power or using excessive force when they didn’t need to. I also stand on the side that drastic measures are the only way that change will happen. This does not mean I condone the way things are currently going; In my opinion, violence begets violence, but unfortunately, I don’t have the answer to the “best” way when so many ways have already been tried and proven unsuccessful. I believe that more training with different cultures and ethnicities would be beneficial moving forward amongst several other things that training should include. Excessive force and violence isn’t always necessary which I show in my videos.
AllHipHop: Have you ever thought this is similar to the “slave catchers” of old, especially when you say you are “hunting”?
Bounty Tank: Absolutely not. I’m not going after these people for fun or to get a kick out of it nor because I’m on some power kick. I only apprehend fugitives who I have loaned money to and they have missed court. This is also very different in a sense that I do not go after any one particular race or ethnicity. I go after anyone who I’ve loaned money to and they’ve failed to follow through with the contract they signed. Another thing is, I explain in very blunt language the consequences of missing court and so to speak my money being on the line. I’ve learned to not sugarcoat and to put things in plain language to make sure I’m understood. Once they miss court, they know what’s coming because I have told them and their family member(s).
AllHipHop: What is the difference between you and the cops that kick in the door?
Bounty Tank: There are a couple of differences. One big difference is that I don’t need a warrant. The laws that we follow as bounty hunters are different and specific to our field. Another difference is that we are not required to announce ourselves before nor upon entry here in Ohio. Different states have different guidelines. I am also only concerned with people who have skipped bail opposed to police who are either responding to a crime or serving a warrant.
AllHipHop: What got you into Hip-Hop and rapping and how do you think you will be received, buy Black people?
Bounty Tank: I’ve always been into rapping and beats. It’s mostly been a way for me to release, but as I come across more and more young people in trouble, ruining their lives my desire to help has grown. One thing I noticed is their love for music and how much they use it to relate to themselves and circumstances so I figured this would be a good way for me to reach them. With all music, there’s some who love it and some who hate it, overall I believe the response will be good.
AllHipHop: How has your job been impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic?
Bounty Tank: Covid-19 has slowed down things a lot. The jails are working to keep it as clean as possible and therefore only accepting very serious charges. They also are releasing a lot more people on their own recognizance.
AllHipHop: What made you jump into rap and what is your history with this genre?
Bounty Tank: Hip hop is the genre that I’ve related to the most. I listen to many different genres, but I feel this is the one I’m the best at and the one that would serve the most purpose for what I’m trying to attain.
AllHipHop: What message are you trying to get across to people?
Bounty Tank: My goal is to show that you can be multi-faceted and follow your dreams.
AllHipHop: You think you may be “hunting” any rappers? Every now and then, a rapper goes on the lamb.
Bounty Tank: I have hunted a couple local rappers. They’re no different from anyone else who misses court and puts my money on the line.
AllHipHop: Would you work with a rapper like Tekashi 69, who is considered to be outside of the lines in Hip-Hop?
Bounty Tank: Not if he gon tell (laughs).
AllHipHop: Do you anticipate that people in the rap game will have an issue with you and your profession?
Bounty Tank: Initially, I do believe some will until they understand exactly what I do and why I do it. Almost always, I’m perceived along the same lines as cops which I am not.
AllHipHop: Talk about your new song, “Street N#gga” and what you are trying to get across?
Bounty Tank:In this song, I am speaking to the fact that you don’t have to pretend to be someone or something you are not and that pretending can be quite “costly”. The people I talk about in this song didn’t have to be in the streets nor know-how which cost them their lives.
AllHipHop: Any final words?
Bounty Tank F##k racism.
“Street N*gga” will be available worldwide through every major music outlet, including Spotify and Apple Music, on June 15th, 2020.
Rising Albuquerque based Hip-Hop artist, Dremon, has released his Neo-Tokyo inspired, animated music video for his new single, “No Exaggeration.” The video is a throwback to late 80s – early 90s anime, featuring grainy video, a red flying car and a dark Neo Tokyo world. The video was directed and animated by Omar Nadir
At the age of 28, Dremon has persevered through a long and turbulent music career. His 2012 Great Escape street LP, earned him a meeting with Jimmy Kang, CEO of Str8up Ent and VP of Wu-Tang Management.
Eventually, Dremon would earn 3 years under their management. During this time Dremon learned valuable lessons about the industry and turned inward to refine how he wanted to continue his career.
(AllHipHop News) Eminem’s name is likely on a significant number of people’s short list of GOAT Hip Hop artists. But which emcees does the Detroit spitter consider among the greatest of all time?
On Sunday, Em shared a list of some of his favorite rappers. He took to Twitter to reply to the No Life Shaq account posting a YouTube video titled “Who is the GREATEST RAPPER of ALL-TIME!”
The Music to Be Murdered By album creator named Lil Wayne, 2Pac, Royce da 5’9″, Jay-Z, Redman, Treach, Kool G Rap, The Notorious B.I.G., KXNG Crooked, Redman, LL Cool J, Nas, Joyner Lucas, Kendrick Lamar, J. Cole, André 3000, Rakim, and Big Daddy Kane.
“For me, in no particular order… Toss up between wayne, pac, royce, jay, redman, treach, g. rap, biggie & king crook….,” tweeted Eminem. He returned to Twitter a few minutes later to add, “Plus redman, LL, nas, joyner, kendrick, cole, andre, rakim, kane…”
For me, in no particular order… Toss up between wayne, pac, royce, jay, redman, treach, g. rap, biggie & king crook….
(AllHipHop News) Michael “Killer Mike” Render has become one of the most recognizable voices on the subject of police brutality and systemic racism. His passionate Atlanta press conference speech following the death of George Floyd went viral.
The incident has caused division in the city and around the country. Surveillance video appears to show Brooks grabbing an officer’s Taser and pointing it at the pursuing cop before getting gunned down in a Wendy’s parking lot. The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office listed the 27-year-old man’s death as a homicide.
Atlanta Police Chief Erika Shields resigned as a result of the June 12 shooting. Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms stated she believes theuse of deadly force was not justified in this situation. OfficerRolfe was fired and could possibly face criminal charges.
Killer Mike posted the following statement about Brooks’ death on Instagram:
#RayshardBrooks should be alive this morning. He should be waking up (hungover or drunk in the tank depending on whether he was apprehended) and not dead. If I’m the Wendy’s worker who called the police, I feel like sh*t this morning because a call for a man sleeping in a car should not have ended with his killing. If I’m the people with the child in the car, I feel helpless and hurt. If I’m that child, I’m scared sh*tless of anyone with a uniform and a gun. If I’m the angry white or black guy who was filming and saying, “I watched y’all for twenty minutes,” I’m wondering what else I could have done? I am mad as hell and I am saddened beyond consolation. At a minimum, we need a law that prevents shooting a person while they’re fleeing. If there is no weapon, fleeing from an officer should be a foot chase and radio race. If a person gets away, they get away. As I have said before, I will continue to look to and support grassroots organizations who are doing the work, day in and day out. If there are groups who you know are organizing to end police killings, @ them so we can follow and support. ⚫️ Let us Continue to #PlotPlanStrategizeOrganizeMobilize! If you are in ATL and want to know who is doing the work already brother Kalonji Changa (@whohetalkingto) is. His org is Commumitymovementbuilders.org. A true organizer he ain’t polite! He is effective! His org does the work. Please @ others that do as well!
(AllHipHop News) Numerous recording artists have spent the last few weeks using their art to shine a light on what is happening in society at the moment. Singer/songwriter T-Pain released the new record “Get Up” as #BlackLivesMatter protests against police brutality and racism spread across the globe.
“This song was actually meant to come out at the end of March, but I decided to switch it out last minute and release ‘Wake Up Dead’ with Chris Brown first,” says T-Pain. “We had all of the artwork and marketing assets created months ago.”
He continues, “It’s very ironic because it all has so much more meaning to it now with everything going on in the world. I thought it was silly to hold this song. I want people to be motivated, inspired, and to continue to Get Up and push forward.”
“Get Up” opens with a snippet from a speech by Malcolm X. Proceeds from sales and streaming revenue of the single will be donated to the Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice organization.
(AllHipHop News) Reality television shows such as Cops and Live PD have been canceled in response to the global Black Lives Matter movement against law enforcement violence and systemic racism. One police-focused scripted show is apparently still ready to air its 22nd season.
NBC’s Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is preparing to once again rip stories straight from the headlines by presenting an episode addressing police brutality. Executive producer Warren Leight stated, “Presumably our cops will still be trying to do the right thing but it’s going to be harder for them and they’re going to understand why it’s hard for them.”
Tracy “Ice-T” Marrow plays one of those fictional officers – Odafin “Fin” Tutuola – on SVU. Ice-T spoke to Entertainment Tonight about the crime drama deciding to tackle the topic of police brutality following the death of George Floyd. The 46-year-old black man was killed by Derek Chauvin after the then-Minneapolis cop held his knee on Floyd’s neck for nearly nine minutes.
“That’s what the writers are going to do. I think if they’re touched by this, it’s going to show up in their writing,” said Ice-T. The veteran emcee later added, “As actors and actresses, we have to address it.”
The Law & Order: SVU season 17 episode titled “Community Policing” centered around New York Police Department officers killing an innocent, unarmed black man. The incident causes racial tension in the city as Assistant District Attorney Rafael Barba (Raúl Esparza) clashes with the NYPD over possibly indicting the cops involved in the shooting.
Besides appearing on SVU for over 20 years, Ice-T also recently starred in and produced Equal Standard. The Brendan Kyle Cochrane-directed movie about an off-duty cop getting shot also features Naughty By Nature’s Anthony “Treach” Criss and Onyx’s Fredro Starr.
(AllHipHop News) A lot of media attention is back on the city of Atlanta following another police shooting. Rayshard Brooks was shot and killed by an Atlanta Police Department officer on June 12.
According to reports, Brooks fell asleep in his vehicle while in a Wendy’s restaurant drive-through line. Two cops eventually showed up at the scene and questioned the 27-year-old African-American.
One officer then decided to arrest Brooks for allegedly driving under the influence. The officer attempted to handcuff the suspect and a scuffle ensued as Brooks attempted to resist. He apparently took an officer’s Taser before trying to flee on foot.
Police body cams filmed most of the interaction. The actual shooting was captured by surveillance video from the Wendy’s. It appeared to show Brooks turning back towards the officer with something in his hand before falling to the ground.
The Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office concluded Brooks died from two gunshot wounds to the back as he was running away. The ME listed his death as a homicide. Officer Garrett Rolfe was fired on Saturday. Officer Devin Brosnan was placed on administrative duty.
Protests broke out in Atlanta in response to Brooks’ death. The Wendy’s where the incident took place was set on fire. Authorities are said to be looking for a white woman as a possible arsonist.
Brooks’ death comes after weeks of demonstrations in Atlanta following the murder of George Floyd by now-charged Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin. Earlier this month, Atlanta also made international news when six APD officers were charged with using excessive force during an arrest of two college students following a Black Lives Matter protest.
Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms said the police shooting of Brooks was not a justified use of deadly force. Fulton County District Attorney Paul Howard is supposedly considering murder, felony murder, or involuntary manslaughter charges against Rolfe. Atlanta Police Chief Erika Shields resigned over the shooting.
