Sean “Diddy” Combs is again pressing a judge to grant him a release from pretrial detention, asserting that recently surfaced evidence undermines the prosecution’s case and his ongoing confinement obstructs his ability to adequately prepare for trial.
The Hip-Hop mogul has been in federal custody since September 2024, facing significant charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking.
In a new filing, Diddy’s defense team submitted an enhanced bail package, unveiling fresh revelations weakening the foundation of the charges.
The defense immediately pointed to what they describe as problematic elements within the government’s case, including allegations of obstruction and witness tampering, which they argue are baseless.
“The new evidence confirms that the government’s obstruction and witness tampering allegations at the initial bail hearings lacked a factual basis,” the filing continues, making a strong case for Diddy’s release.
The legal team argues that the latest evidence challenges the government’s narrative.
Diddy promises to comply with stringent measures, including a $50 million bond, home confinement with electronic tracking, and round-the-clock security, as part of this new proposal.
“Mr. Combs proposes an updated bail package that is far more robust than the previous proposal,” the memorandum reads, emphasizing that these conditions will secure his cooperation with the court’s demands while keeping others safe.
Other restrictions he has offered up include no access to the internet or telephones, except for calls arranged by security and strict drug testing.
They argue that his detention severely challenges his ability to manage the overwhelming evidence provided in discovery properly.
The case files span more than 90 terabytes—a mountain of information they claim Diddy can’t sift through, given the restrictions on his access to necessary technology.
“There is no way Mr. Combs can review all this discovery during visits by his attorneys,” the memorandum states. “He needs a laptop so that he can work on his case as often as possible on his own time.”
Diddy’s legal representation detailed how repeated lockdowns at the facility exacerbate the issue, recounting a recent instance where law enforcement efforts triggered a shutdown, complicating his ability to organize critical defense documents.
These conditions, the team argues, violate his constitutional right to an adequate defense.
“Keeping Mr. Combs detained under the extraordinary circumstances here would leave him unconstitutionally handicapped in consulting counsel, searching for evidence and witnesses, and preparing his defense,” they argued in the court filing.
The defense also leaned into the imprisoned mogul’s track record of community involvement, emphasizing his philanthropic legacy that includes founding the Capital Preparatory Harlem Charter School and fundraising initiatives like those for COVID-19 relief efforts.
“Mr. Combs has never run from a problem,” the filing assures. “He has had more than his share of adversity, as he does now, and he has responded to every such challenge with integrity.”
3rd Bass is celebrating the 35th anniversary of their debut, The Cactus Album, which arrived via Def Jam Recordings/Columbia Records in November 1989. After years of not speaking, MC Serch and Pete Nice have seemingly mended fences to reunite for not just a show but an entire tour.
MC Serch shared the news on Instagram, writing, “Swipe right for the surprise of the night…@djcassidy has created a show to truly be proud of. We were glad when we were asked to perform.
“As we plan to tour North America next year, it was good to get on stage with Pete and do what felt the most natural for us to do. Which is perform our music for those fans who love our music. Everything has its time, and as we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the release of the Cactus Al/Bum, this is ours.”
The long-awaited reunion took place on November 8 at DJ Cassidy’s Pass the Mic event at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Several of MC Serch and Pete Nice’s peers hopped in the comment section of Serch’s post to express their excitement, including longtime Bone Thugs-n-Harmony manager Steve Lobel, Exile, Grandmaster Flash & the Furious 5’s Scorpio, Loud Records’ Steve Rifkind and DJ EFN.
“I have to credit my brother Van Silk for this reunion with Serch,” Pete Nice said in a statement to AllHipHop. “For the past 15 years his two pet projects have been to get The Furious 5 and 3rd Bass reunited, he finally did it. Thanks to DJ Cassidy for making it possible for us to perform tonight along with our brothers Melle Mel and Scorpio, the men who literally created emceeing and the blueprint for Hip-Hop, it is a great honor.
“I will have to work around my schedule as the curator at The Hip Hop Museum in the Bronx, but I look forward to the opportunity for our fans to see me, Serch and DJ Daddy Rich on stage performing together in the future.”
Following The Cactus Album, 3rd Bass dropped what would become their second and final album, Derelicts of Dialect, in 1991. The album was anti-pop and focused on the growing mainstream presence of rap. It targeted trends that the group believed threatened the culture’s integrity and featured several tracks critical of Vanilla Ice.
3rd Bass, which also included DJ Richie Rich (now DJ Daddy Rich), broke up due to “personal and creative differences” and growing disdain from living on the road for two years. Their final track was the theme song for the 1992 Cuba Gooding Jr. movie Gladiator.
Former NFL star Le’Veon Bell has responded in an unconventional way after a transgender woman attempted to expose him for soliciting her amid his staunch support of Donald Trump’s anti-trans health rhetoric.
On Thursday (November 7), a Twitter user whose handle is @lexishexx set out on an initiative to put men on blast for reaching out to her via direct messages, despite spewing transphobic remarks to their following. The user indicated that they were moved to call out the individuals, who are both everyday average Joe’s and celebrities, over their collective support for Trump.
“Outing all DL [down low] men including celebrities that ever hit me up and post about Trump idgaf,” Lex wrote in their initial tweet.
Outing all DL men including celebrities that ever hit me up and post about Trump idgaf
The first user Lex targeted was none other than the former Pittsburgh Steelers running back, who expressed a gender fluidity repressive remark while replying to an individual user appealing to other users to vote compassionately and considerate their daughters before casting their ballot for Trump.
In particular, the user asked voters to make decisions as if their “mother” or “daughter” were watching based on the issues of reproductive health that the Trump administration have revealed their controversial stance on.
Bell responded to the user, “I don’t want my daughter to have to compete or share a locker room with men.”
Lex used the tweet as a springboard to outing Bell as one of the users who are transphobic on their timelines, yet also allegedly fetishize her in private. In doing so, she shared a screenshot of a DM from him, and as a result, Bell became the sole perpetrator to be wrapped up in the campaign that has since gone viral.
“Spewing this rhetoric when…& yes this was on my nsfw page he knew I was a doll lol,” Lex wrote.
The tweet quickly racked up nearly three million views, causing Lex to announce she was pausing the initiative, due to its virality. However, that didn’t stop the scandal from leaking over to several other platforms, including Instagram where multiple media outlets covered the tea. In response to a post The Neighborhood Talk shared, Bell responded in the comments section claiming Lex had pulled a fast one on him.
“Tried to trick me .. but STILL, I don’t want men in bathrooms with my daughter,” Bell wrote.
However, in a response to a user trolling him over the incident, Bell appeared to lean into the allegations by promoting his personal OnlyFans account.
Several Hip-Hop and R&B artists have reacted to the release of massive nominations list for the 2025 Grammy Awards.
The concentration of both legacy and up-and-coming artists who have made their mark within the past year and are now represented in the nominations illustrates how impactful both of the genres have been within the music industry as of late, across the board. Legends such as Run-DMC and André 3000 will compete alongside fledging superstars such as J. Cole, Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, Doechii and more.
In celebration of the rich and diverse field of Grammy nominees, AllHipHop takes a moment to acknowledge the wave of artist feedback flowing in across multiple social media platforms.
André 3000
André 3000 is one of several artists nominated in multiple categories, including the coveted Album of tge Year. In a statement he released to Variety, the Atlanta rap veteran spoke about how “surprised” he was that his experimental flute album, New Blue Sun, was recognized with such a major nomination.
“I felt that we tried to campaign to see if we could get into the alternative jazz or ambient category,” André 3000 told Variety. “So this morning, when the album of the year category popped up, I was really, really surprised because I didn’t think that that many people even knew about it. So I’m just happy that the votes came in that way and that people were paying attention, more than anything.”
Run-DMC
The iconic Hip-Hop group Run-DMC reacted to receiving their first Grammy Nomination in 40 years after their television documentary series Kings From Queen: The Run-DMC was nominated in the category for the Best Music Film.
GloRilla expressed her gratitude to her fans, in addition to herself, after learning she was nominated in three categories, including Best Rap Song.
“S/O to God my team & y’all not to be cocky but shiiidddd S/O to MEEEE!!” GloRilla wrote in part. “3x Grammy nominated artist thank yall so much [fire emojis].”
S/O to God my team & y’all 🥳🥳not to be cocky but shiiidddd S/O to MEEEE!! 3x Grammy nominated artist thank yall so much 🔥🔥🔥🔥
After earning three nominations of his own, as well, Chris Brown took a moment to celebrate, and highlight the success of his recent 11:11 album via a post on Instagram.
“3 of them thangz,” Chris Brown wrote in the caption stamped with heart and prayer hands emojis.
After learning of the news that her Please Don’t Cry album was nominated for two Grammy’s, including in the category for The Best Melodic Rap Performance for her “3:AM” collaboration with Eryakah Badu, Rapsody gushed about how proud she was of the project in a touching IG post.
“Thank you to the voting members of the @recordingacademy!” Rapsody wrote in the caption. “Grateful to be acknowledged for the art I made with my friends! Some of the illest creatives to create! Thank you so much @symbolycone @erykahbadu @hitboy @jemarcusbridges @lonestarrmuzik @corbettmusic ! We made magic and timeless art. I’m so proud of Please Don’t Cry !.”
Though his nomination came by way of his contribution as an artist and producer on J. Cole’s Might Delete Later album, which was nominated in the Best Rap Album category, West Coast rapper Daylyt celebrated as if it were his own solo nod.
And rightfully so, per his hilarious Instagram video, in which he noted that he used to dismiss major awards such as the Grammys because he had never been recognized through this point in his career as a top “underground” rapper.
“First Grammy non rapper and producer at th same time Ayo @#naw is uppp,” Daylyt wrote in the caption.
While her mother Jada Pinkett Smith also reacted to the news, Willow and her father Will Smith’s reactions to her two Grammy nominations, including one for Best Arrangement, Instrument and Vocals for her song “Big Feelings” are especially poignant.
In the heartfelt post Will share, he congratulted his “bean” for persevering through her “struggling” and “rebuilding” in order to manigest her dreams — in turn, remarking on his pride in his role as her father.
“CONGRATS, MA BEAN!,” Will wrote in the post caption. “2 GRAMMY NOMINATIONS… WHOA! I’ve watched you Suffer: Crying, Falling, Struggling, Rising, Training, Learning, Changing, Quitting, Growing, Collapsing, Rebuilding… And Now… Manifesting Your Wildest Dreams! I am honored to be your Daddy..”
Willow reposted Will’s shoutout on her story, writing, “LOVE YOU DADDY,” in addition to remarking on the moment she created with her Empathogen project on her own terms.
Though he’s not necessarily nominated in a Hip-Hop or R&B specific category, we would be remiss to not acknowledge the colossal coming-out party Country music innovator Shaboozey is having amid earning six nominations in his first-ever Grammy Awards experience. Of the multiple nominations he’s received, including in the Song of The Year category for his anthem “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”, the recognition he received after being named as one of the nominees for Artist Of The Year held a truly special meaning for Shaboozey. Along with sharing the video of his reaction to being nominated in the category, Shaboozey shared a lengthy message about how “grateful” he was to have the opportunity to reap the rewards of his dedication and hard work.
“Today I woke up to 6 Grammy nominations!!!,” he wrote in part. “This moment is something I’ve dreamt about ever since I started recording music. Even with that said, nothing could’ve prepared me for the moment when I finally heard my name called today!”
Hey everybody! Drake is making a big effort to repair his relationship with the city of Atlanta. As I previously reported, he’s been rumored to be working actively to mend things with Future. Whether or not that’s fully materialized, there’s a new development.
Young Thug is out—well, sort of. He’s essentially on a form of house arrest that could last for decades. Any slip-ups, and he’ll go straight back to jail. For now, though, he’s out, and he seems relieved and happy about his newfound “freedom.” We’re happy for him too because we all need some good news this year. Plus, the state’s case against him was really weak.
Rumor has it that Drake went straight to see Thug as soon as he was free. Allegedly, within two hours of Young Thug’s plea deal, the Canadian Don paid him a visit. Word is that Drake even gave him $1 million to help him get back on his feet. Can you believe this? This move is bound to earn him some loyalty points in Atlanta, which is exactly what he needs. While Houston is one of his favorite cities, Atlanta is Atlanta. Drake needs a solid standing in Atlanta if he wants to work his way back into the culture there.
By the way, someone mentioned that a correctional officer robbed Young Thug of a watch. Whether or not that’s true is anyone’s guess, but I heard that the officer wore the watch in question in court while testifying against Young Thug. If that’s true, that’s wild!
Barbara Bregoli, the mother of Bhad Bhabie, confirmed her daughter’s cancer diagnosis on Friday (November 8). Bregoli spoke out after gossip blogger Perez Hilton claimed Bhad Bhabie might be faking it for attention.
“How dare you – you little vile p############ – say my daughter would lie about something like that,” Bregoli told Hilton on Instagram. “You’re a dad … How many children did you have through a surrogate? I’m not even sure. You need to focus on them and not mine. Go find another way to make some money instead of talking s### about other people. Is this the only way you can make money, talking s### about people? How dare you!
“And I pray to God one of your children never gets cancer. I’ve had it twice. How dare you say my daughter’s faking this, you vile piece of no good s###. God don’t like ugly. You need to remember that.”
Bhad Bhabie revealed she was being treated for cancer in an Instagram Stories post. She disclosed her health issues in response to fans questioning her weight loss on social media.
“I’m sorry my cancer medicine made me [lose] weight,” she wrote. “I’m slowly gaining it back. So stop running [with] the worst narratives.”
Earlier this year, Bhad Bhabie gave birth to her first child. She accused her baby’s father Le Vaughn of domestic abuse over the summer.
“I love that man more than I love myself and it’s honestly really sad,” she wrote. “But unfortunately this is real life. I know the easy way out is to leave and that’s better said than done. This doesn’t happen this extreme often, but LV definitely has a problem. He’s going to get the help he needs. Right now there’s no room for mistakes. And he knows that. Who ever says they are there for me will [be] supportive of me no matter what I choose to do. Y’all know I give a mf hell but there’s no excuse for that at all what so ever. My point in sharing this wasn’t to attack him, it was for him to see what he does is wrong and too take accountability and make a REAL CHANGE.”
Bhad Bhabie reconciled with Le Vaughn despite his alleged abuse. She also reconnected with her estranged father Ira Peskowitz.
Hip-Hop heavyweights are showing Lola Brooke mad love amid a renewed wave of her hit song “Don’t Play With It” trailblazing a path to the top and dominating TikTok’s algorithm.
On Thursday (November 7), Brooke shared a hysterical skit on her Instagram profile in which she attempted to re-create the viral videos circulating on TikTok that are combining cute videos of pet owners and their birds with a mashup version of 50 Cent’s “Candy Shop” and the remix to her hit song “Don’t Play With It.”
Though Brooke released the official remix to the track featuring Latto and Yung Miami last year in March, the track has found a new life on social media as pet owners attempt to get their birds to perform a portion of the explosive lyrics from the song along with them to satisfy a tricky, yet entertaining trend.
Attempting to get in on the fun herself, Brooke took a trip to her local park, where she tried to bully a bunch of pigeons into making a video with her while holding a loaf of bread hostage in their presence as a means of coercion.
Several New York rap figures immediately responded with pure joy and laughter in the comments, including Scar Lip, Kid Capri and activist Mysonne Linen, who all posted crying laughing emojis while cracking up in the comments. Brooke’s skit also quickly made its way to Houston, Texas and prompted a response from hometown hero Trae Tha Truth, who also busted up laughing at the funny video.
However, Dipset rap legend Jim Jones’ subtle co-sign of the skit appeared to hold the most weight as Brooke and the and Harlem native shared an exchange over one of the Brooklyn native’s hilarious one-liners from the vid. The line in particular that caught Jim’s attention captures Brooke asking the pigeons if they are cold and in need of Canada Goose brand puffer jackets.
“Nah who need a goose is wild niece,” Jim Jones wrote seemingly amused by the hilarious video.
Brooke replied, “yea I might of been outta pocket about that one,”
Brooked added an additional remark, referencing the aforementioned Brownville birds theory she joked about in the skit following fan discourse on the jab.
“I love Brownsville but I’m just saying how yall live by Central Park but yall from Brooklyn ?!” she questioned rhetorically “Rep or move out.”
Authorities are investigating a barrage of racist text messages sent to Black people across the U.S. following Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory. Trump supporters quickly concocted a conspiracy theory about the texts, dismissing them as a hoax akin to Jussie Smollett staging a hate crime.
Black children, college students and young professionals received marketing-style texts referencing slavery and “picking cotton” from unknown phone numbers. The hateful messages told recipients to report to their nearest plantation.
“The FBI is aware of the offensive and racist text messages sent to individuals around the country and is in contact with the Justice Department and other federal authorities on the matter,” the FBI said in a statement. “As always, we encourage members of the public to report threats of physical violence to local law enforcement authorities.”
NAACP CEO Derrick Johnson said it was no coincidence these racist messages were sent after Trump’s win.
“The unfortunate reality of electing a president who, historically, has embraced and at times encouraged hate, is unfolding before our eyes,” Johnson declared. “These messages represent an alarming increase in vile and abhorrent rhetoric from racist groups across the country, who now feel emboldened to spread hate and stoke the flames of fear that many of us are feeling after Tuesday’s election results.”
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries was one of the many public officials condemning the texts.
“Racist, vile and threatening text messages are being sent to young African-Americans throughout the country, including on college campuses,” he wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). “There are extremists in America who feel empowered. We will not be intimidated by anyone.”
MAGA users accused Jeffries and others of fabricating the story, labeling it a “Jussie Smollett hoax.” Smollett became a trending topic on X as Trump supporters sought to deflect blame.
A man sued Sean “Diddy” Combs for a 1996 assault amid the incarcerated mogul’s myriad of legal issues. According to court documents obtained by AllHipHop, DeWitt Gilmore claimed he was attacked by Diddy and others in New York. Gilmore sought $5 million in damages.
“On a night in the summer of 1996, Plaintiff DeWitt Gilmore was assaulted by Defendant Sean Combs and a group of his associates, including his bodyguard, on a street in New York City after exiting a club,” the lawsuit alleged. “Plaintiff, in the company of his friends Lance Calfe and Rico, approached his vehicle, an Isuzu Trooper, parked near the club. As Plaintiff and his friends prepared to leave, Defendant Combs and his associates pulled up in a gold convertible with Defendant Combs positioned in the passenger seat and his bodyguard driving. Defendant Combs initiated a verbal confrontation with Plaintiff, taunting him with derogatory language and escalating the situation with threats of violence. His words, including ‘What’s up, b####?’ were intended to provoke and intimidate Plaintiff.”
Diddy’s associates allegedly surrounded Gilmore’s vehicle then fired shots. Gilmore was able to escape danger in a car chase.
“The encounter rapidly intensified as Defendant Combs’ bodyguard and additional vehicles carrying armed associates joined to form an entourage, surrounding Plaintiff’s vehicle,” the lawsuit explained. “Defendant Combs and his associates blocked Plaintiff’s car, creating a sense of immediate danger. Defendant Combs’ associates brandished firearms and shots were fired. Fearing for his life, Plaintiff Gilmore, with Lance Calfe and Rico as witnesses, were aggressively chased through the dark city streets and managed to evade the scene by accelerating through traffic, narrowly escaping a potentially deadly ambush.”
Gilmore said he never pressed charges against Diddy to avoid harassment and retribution. Gilmore recently reconnected with Calfe, which “brought forth new insight and testimonial evidence surrounding the events of that night.”
Calfe’s account was “significant enough to reopen the case beyond the usual statute of limitations due to the unique circumstances of intimidation and safety concerns that delayed earlier action,” per Gilmore.
Gilmore sued Diddy for assault, battery and intention infliction of emotional distress. The Bad Boy Records boss remains in jail as he awaits trial for sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy and transportation to engage in prostitution charges.
Lil Durk faced two additional charges in a superseding indictment in his murder-for-hire case. Federal prosecutors announced the new felonies on Friday (November 8).
The drill rapper was charged with one count of conspiracy, one count of use of interstate facilities to commit murder-for-hire resulting in death and one count of using, carrying and discharging firearms and a machine gun and possession of such firearms in furtherance of a crime of violence resulting in death. Lil Durk, whose real name is Durk Banks, was previously charged via criminal complaint.
Prosecutors accused Lil Durk of ordering a hit on Quando Rondo, which led to the 2022 shooting death of Rondo’s cousin Lul Pab. Lil Durk’s co-conspirators Kavon Grant, Deandre Wilson, Keith Jones, David Lindsey and Asa Houston were indicted for their alleged roles in the murder-for-hire scheme.
“Mr. Banks is charged with orchestrating a cold-blooded murder that resulted in the death of a rival’s family member,” U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada said. “Not only that, the shooting occurred in the open, at a gas station at a busy intersection, endangering many others in the area. Violent gun crime of this sort is devastating to our community and we will have zero-tolerance for those who perpetrate such callous acts of violence.”
Lil Durk was arrested in Florida in October. Authorities said hitmen used his money to carry out an attack on Rondo in 2022. A close associate of Lil Durk allegedly coordinated and paid for his five co-conspirators to travel from Chicago to California a day before the murder.
“Don’t book no flights under no names involved [with] me,” Lil Durk told his associate, per court documents.
The hitmen tracked, stalked and attempted to murder Rondo. Gunfire erupted at a gas station in Los Angeles. The gunmen fired at least 18 rounds at Rondo’s vehicle, killing his cousin. Rondo was targeted in retaliation for King Von’s 2020 murder.
Lil Durk and his fellow defendants have not entered pleas in their case. They will be arraigned in the coming weeks.
Rihanna took a trip home to Barbados to celebrate the launch of her Fenty brand in the Caribbean, but fans fear she revealed her plans to quit music.
On Thursday (November 7), the billionaire singer-turned-entrepreneur marked the opening of the first two Fenty Beauty stores in her home country. The brand, launched in 2017, finally arrived in the Caribbean last month.
Fenty Beauty went on sale in nine Caribbean islands — Antigua, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Grenada, Sint Maarten and Saint Martin, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Amid the success of her brand and becoming a mother to two sons with rapper A$AP Rocky, the superstar songstress hasn’t dropped a project in nearly a decade. Fans have had a long wait for new music, clamoring for a follow-up to 2016’s Anti.
However, her speech at Fenty Beauty in Barbados led many fans to believe the album would not materialize because Rihanna is set to quit music.
“Music was the thing that got the attention, but God had other plans for me,” she said at the launch. “I was able to create in ways that were very sincere and genuine or organic and authentic to the things that I love. So it doesn’t even feel like a job.”
She continued, “I cannot express what this day means to me, to be able to celebrate with people that deserve it the most. Thank you to my country.”
Rihanna’s speech at Fenty Beauty’s Caribbean launch in Barbados: 🇧🇧
“Music was the thing that got the attention, but God had other plans for me. I cannot express what this day means to me, to be able to celebrate with people that deserve it the most. Thank you to my country.” pic.twitter.com/AS3Cr2ado1
Distraught fans shared the clip while expressing fears Rihanna is retiring from music.
“Yeah she’s done with music,” one fan wrote, while another added, “she is gone.”
A third fan suggested Rihanna “abandoned” her music fans, while others implored her to drop a farewell project. Check out the reactions at the end of the page.
Rihanna “Starting Over” On New Album
Meanwhile, Rihanna previously denied retirement rumors after fans got heated over a t-shirt slogan. However, she also revealed she had gone back to the drawing book with her ninth studio album.
“I’m starting over,” she said in June. “But I don’t want to neglect the songs that I have, so I actually want to go back and listen to stuff with new ears, with my new perspective and then see what applies and what I’m still in love with.”
Pioneering artist and business woman MC Lyte has been a part of our lives for decades but remains a bit of a mystery. In a recent interview with AllHipHop, the Brooklyn-born queen opened up about her highly anticipated album, One of One, and remarkable journey.
Speaking to Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur, who dives deep into MC Lyte’s creative process, she revealed the personal and introspective nature of this project. In a day of truly negative music, her goal is to share “inspiring and aspirational” songs for the culture. Ultimately, after many years of being dormant, she realized she was the only one who could bring this vision to life. Collaborations with artists like Stevie Wonder, Ghostface Killah, Lil Mama and Common and more add depth, bars and punctuate her commitment to artistic authenticity.
MC Lyte talks with candor. Her wisdom, grace and unwavering commitment to her craft shines. She blends personal stories with broader industry insights making the interview a must-read for any Hip-Hop fan. With the release of One of One, MC Lyte once again proves her status as a true icon and a trailblazer. Peer into into the mind and heart of a legend.
AllHipHop: What was your goal with this album? It’s been a long time coming.
MC Lyte: Yes, it’s been a long time—10 years. My goal was to create music that’s inspiring and aspirational. At some point, I realized only I could bring this vision to life. My friend Affion Crockett joined me in the studio and helped with a couple of tracks, including “All Right” and another called “Hire,” which will be on the next release. Eventually, though, I realized the album was becoming very personal and intimate, so I called him and said, “I love you, but I need to finish this on my own.” That’s when songs like “Thank You” and “King” took shape, which I hope listeners find impactful.
AllHipHop: For those who may not know, Affion Crockett is an amazing comedian and a huge Hip-Hop fan.
MC Lyte: He’s an MC in his own right!
AllHipHop: Speaking of collaborations, you worked with Stevie Wonder and Common. That track hasn’t been released as a single yet, but it’s already becoming a fan favorite. Why do you think that is?
MC Lyte: It’s interesting—people make assumptions, saying things like, “Oh, your demographic isn’t on DSPs.” But people don’t really know. Once we accept that, we can let the music speak for itself and let listeners find it naturally. For “Change Your Ways” to be the most-streamed song on DSPs was a surprise. The track was actually created by a producer named Concept from Inland Empire in Los Angeles, and it was his first release.
When I heard the beat, I immediately wanted to work with it. After writing my first verse, I thought of Common. Thankfully, he agreed and gave me an amazing verse. Stevie Wonder was the final touch. Our executive producer, Warryn Campbell, is one of his musical directors, so he helped connect us. Stevie and I have been friends, and he often calls me to share stories, which I love. Having him and his harmonica on the track was such a blessing.
AllHipHop: Thinking back on your journey, I wanted to ask—how has your experience been as a woman in Hip-Hop? The industry has changed a lot, and it’s been especially tough for women. You had three bodyguards at one point—that’s intense.
MC Lyte: Yeah, there was a lot going on. Not all three were with me all the time. Two of them, these young dancers from Alaska, were part of the team, and we had security to keep them safe too. It was wild back then, and we needed that support.
As a female MC, it’s a tricky question. I don’t want to say it was easy, but my team worked so hard around me that I didn’t feel the full weight of the challenges. My manager, Nat Robinson, our security, and my label really looked out for me as a young artist. I probably got away with things others couldn’t.
Well, I dressed the way that I wanted. I said whatever I wanted. I showed up no makeup. I just showed up as a kid from a Brooklyn block. And there was no scolding about it. I just was free.
AllHipHop: Did you realize you were making history when you dropped Lyte as a Rock?
MC Lyte: Maybe the management, Audio Two, the producers, and King of Chill did, but I didn’t. I was just there, having a great time and living out a dream.
AllHipHop: Who inspired you? Besides Salt-N-Pepa, were there others?
MC Lyte: Definitely. I listened to Sweet Tee, Sparky D, Roxanne Shante, Finesse & Synquis—all the female MCs. I wanted to see who was bringing what style.
AllHipHop: How did it feel when you had to go up against Roxanne?
MC Lyte: It didn’t feel good because it wasn’t really about her. It was driven by Grand Daddy I.U. or maybe his label (Cold Chillin’ Records). But I went to her ice cream shop in Queens, and we hugged and made peace. Since then, it’s been real. As you grow in this game, if you let it teach you, you gain wisdom. Conversations with Shante now are all about learning, and it’s great to be an OG but even better when you can learn from those who came before you.
AllHipHop: Yeah. I think about Self-Destruction all the time and how we took the reins to really try to control our destiny. Sometimes, I feel like we’re not in control now. I should ask—what are your thoughts on the evolution of hip-hop? There’s a lot to be said, both positive and negative. You mentioned the positive, but I do have concerns, especially with so many folks dying from drug overdoses, and just about everything you can name. Is that more an indictment of the culture—American culture—or is that something within our own subculture?
MC Lyte: You know what, I always say that art imitates life. So, the things we’re seeing that seem so hyper-sensationalized, if I can put those two together, are because there’s such a magnifying glass on hip-hop. But hip-hop is a reflection of what’s happening in the community. And then the community watches hip-hop, and it becomes magnified even more. So, unfortunately, yes, the drugs get glamorized. I recently saw Nicki do an interview where she said Future doesn’t even do drugs, and I was like, “Is this for real?” In my day, you didn’t fake doing drugs because drugs weren’t cool. So, in any case, I think people now are putting in hip-hop what they think people want to hear.
AllHipHop: Honestly, 50 didn’t drink or smoke either. So, he had us fooled for a minute.
MC Lyte: Right? Yeah, it’s really interesting. But then, in the end, they do.
AllHipHop: Now he does. I saw him once with at least maybe a little champagne.
MC Lyte: My style of presentation to hip-hop is—I don’t care what you really like to hear. I’m going to give this to you, and hopefully, you’ll like it, but I’m staying true to who I am now. And, of course, it took time for me to develop into that person. I call this record my ministry because I’m speaking truth to power, whether you like it or not. Hopefully, if I can catch you at the right time, I might be able to lead you somewhere different from where you’re being led to right now.
AllHipHop: Yeah, because your album One of One almost has—obviously, working with Warryn probably helps—but it sounds very gospel, like gospel hip-hop. It definitely starts out almost like a gospel record, and then you start, like you said, talking about different topics, pretty heavy subject matter as well. But that’s an evolution, right?
MC Lyte: Yeah, definitely. With “Thank You,” “Woman,” “King King”—very purposeful records. And it’s not until you get into the album, you’re like, “Oh, okay. She’s talking about that.” And that was one of the things A&R and I talked about. He was like, “Well, you don’t want to sound too preachy.” And I was like, “I’m not calling you back to the studio.” No. I was like, “Oh, okay.” Now, I’ve got to approach it like we’re having fun. I’m telling you who I am, but look at what I’ve learned in the midst of this. I mean, for somebody to get on record and say, “I was in the Devil’s Den,” and now I’m out, and I can speak the truth. I can tell you what it’s like in there, and if you give yourself over to God, you can make your way into the light—no pun intended.
Joe Budden is clowning Drake over his recent attempts to intimidate DeMar DeRozan at a recent game between the Toronto Raptors and Sacramento Kings.
Despite their long standing friendship, Drake and DeRozan have been on shaky ground since the former Toronto Raptors player made a cameo in Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” video and joined him onstage at the epic Pop Out concert.
Budden, who has been embroiled in his own well-documented feud with Drake for years, addressed the topic on the latest episode of his podcast.
Co-host Marc Lamont Hill said Drake mean-mugging DeRozan at the game was “the corniest s### that I’ve ever seen.” He explained that the OVO founder was right for being upset about the athlete “Crip walking in the video that calls [him] a pedophile.” However, he said that at some point, Drake should “actually do something about it.”
Budden agreed, adding, “It’s never the conflict. It’s the inability to navigate conflict.”
He continued, “But all that standing at the game the ice grilling, the face, the mumbling under his breath. We n##### and we’re respectful so we not gonna say it… but you a b####!”
After laughing, Budden continued. “I ain’t even about to try and sit here and do a bunch of unpacking,” he said. “You went to the game and cut his eyes. Ooh, these are the duck lips of death! Talk about Duck Tales. Yo, don’t come to my game and cut eyes at me, my n####. I’ll throw this ball at you.”
Check out the episode below. Joe Budden begins talking about Drake and DeMar DeRozan around the 1:34 minute mark.
While at the game, Drake said, “If you ever put DeRozan banner up, I’ll go up there and pull it down myself.”
Sacramento Kings owner Vivek Ranadivé later backed DeRozan when the Raptors came to Sacramento. He wore a shirt with the words “Not Like Us” at the game earlier this week.
Meanwhile, back in July, DeRozan addressed his appearance in K. Dot’s video, explaining that Lamar is “basically family.” He also insisted that his relationship with the Toronto superstar hadn’t changed, adding, “Drake’s still my man.”
Bhad Bhabie made an alarming admission about her health, leaving fans concerned she has cancer after calling out trolls body shaming her amid recent weight loss.
On Thursday (November 7), the 21-year-old rapper and model shared a health update on her Instagram Stories. While Bhad Bhabie did not say she had been diagnosed with the disease, she revealed she was taking “cancer” medication.
“I’m Sorry my cancer medicine made me [lose] weight,” she wrote. “Im slowly gaining it back. So stop running w the worst narratives.”
While Bhad Bhabie did not share any more information about her health, the mention of “cancer medicine” is concerning. Her post seemingly came in response to the comments on her most recent Instagram post.
She appeared visibly slimmer in a series of selfies posted last month, causing some fans to question if she was on drugs or shedding pounds due to recent stress with her partner, the father of her young daughter.
Bhad Bhabie recently accused boyfriend, Le Vaughn, of domestic abuse, although they appear to have since reconciled.
“My poor baby losing weight,” wrote one fan, with another adding, “I feel so bad you were looking so good now you seem really off and I’m worried.”
Others stood up for the OnlyFans creator, calling for the body shamers to back off.
“Y’all stop commenting on her physical appearance,” another fan said. “You have no idea what negativity or positivity she could be experiencing. Reminder that it takes a mother a MINIMUM of 3 full years for her body to regulate back to how it was before getting pregnant. Give her grace.”
Meanwhile, many flooded the comment section with support after Bhad Bhabie’s “cancer medicine” revelation.
Quavo had a blast with Kai Cenat and his streamer friends after joining the Twitch star for his Mafiathon 2 subathon streaming event.
On Thursday night (November 7), Quavo became the latest celebrity to appear on the non-stop 30-day marathon stream, following stints from the likes of Lil Uzi Vert, Kodak Black, GloRilla, DDG and more.
Like Black and DDG, Quavo was going viral following his on-air antics. He was tending among the Top. 10 in the country on X (Twitter) as users reacted to his high-jinx.
One moment in particular attracted attention, with fans claiming Quavo pressed DDG, who had returned to Cenat’s new Los Angeles mega-mansion. A clip from the stream sees Quavo poking DDG before asking him, “What’s up?” and questioning if he wants to box.
It didn’t appear they have any issue, with many putting Quavo’s actions down to him being “high.” Fans shared another funny exchange with Quavo and DGG debating who was too close to the other while playing a game.
Kai Cenat was confused until he realized Quavo was pressing DDG for getting to close to him 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/BkfLyTZnAx
Earlier in the evening, Quavo became emotional as he and Kai Cenat listened to his tribute to the late Takeoff. He also dropped off an inspiring motivational speech and an unreleased track. Check out some of the highlights below.
Quavo gets emotional giving a motivational speech on Kai Cenat’s live stream 🥲 pic.twitter.com/CK9FMbMiZ4
Meanwhile, Quavo’s fellow Migos rapper Offset previously joined one of Kai Cenat’s streaming marathons. After the broadcast, Cenat shared a message Offset sent thanking him for inviting him to his 24-hour stream.
“’Really thankful for the time and fun bro the whole gang, love them n##### like they my brothers,'” Offset wrote. “‘Thank you bro I haven’t had fun like this in life in a long time bro. I needed that in my life, been so serious for so long n##### been going through s### with no fun. Thank you thank you.'”
From “BIG STEPPA” to “City Girls and now ‘Jump Off” , the “Raging anthem” producer often shies away from the spotlight – until now.
Stevieknocks has racked up quite the production credit discography . One of the biggest lessons he has learned in the industry is to have an eye for what the game is missing.
Stevieknocks notched another major placement by linking up with Billyracxx once again on Jump Off Ft Killy with a Raging Anthem.
Stevieknocks, or as close family and friends know him – Stevie Hammock, isn’t just another name in the vast landscape of music producers. With a root deep in the vibrant streets of Lynwood, California, and a life molded by the rhythmic tales of Compton, this American music producer has painted his journey with grit, beats, and inspiration.
You’d wonder – what’s in a place? Well, for Stevieknocks, quite a lot. Growing up in Compton, he found his passion brewing in high school. However, it wasn’t until the age of 20 that the calling became clear. The road ahead was paved with dreams of music production, and at 23, there was no looking back.
Over the years, Stevieknocks’ studio has buzzed with a slew of renowned names. From Fivio Foreign, Og Maco, Billyracxx to Chris Brown and many more – it’s like a who’s who of the music industry. When you mix this with the dynamic and different sounds he describes his music with, it’s no wonder that he’s left an indelible mark on the ears of many.
So, what’s the magic potion? Perhaps, the influences that shaped him. Dr. Dre’s pulsating beats, Pharrell’s eclectic vibe, and Quincy Jones’ timeless resonance are the holy trinity for Stevieknocks. When you blend this with his innate drive, you get a sound that screams both – inspiration and excitement.
His association with powerhouses like Sony Records and Atlantic Records further accentuates his position in the industry. And when he mentions ongoing collaborations with talents like Billyracxx, Killy ,Maxo Kream, Famous Dex , and Fivio Foreign – you realize, this is just the beginning of a symphonic saga.
Stevieknocks isn’t just about producing beats, he’s about producing milestones. Landing on the iTunes Top 100 Charts at #1 5 consecutive Times, beating chart-toppers like Doja Cat and Nicki Minaj & Kanye West isn’t a feat everyone can boast of. But for Stevieknocks, it’s another day in his life – one where he relentlessly creates and innovates.
As fans eagerly anticipate what’s next, he has thrown a new Production our way October 2024 & is poised to be a musical treat with a solo project featuring powerhouses like Famous Dex and Billyracxx among other surprise features. And knowing Stevieknocks, he’s bound to deliver more than what’s expected.
Yet, amidst the glory and the beats, Stevieknocks stays grounded. He’s quick to shine the spotlight among producer stars he believes are set to blaze the industry. Billyracxx, Killy, and Maxo Kream – three names he sees gearing up for an explosive year ahead. And he’s not just an observer; he’s thrilled to be a pivotal part of their ascent.
In the grand tapestry of music, many threads weave stories of ambition, triumph, and passion. But very few threads manage to weave a legacy. Stevieknocks is well on his way, and as he crafts beat after beat, he’s not just creating music; he’s scripting history.
To stay updated on Stevieknocks’ symphonic journey, follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and his official website. For those craving his beats, find him on Spotify. One thing’s for sure – with Stevieknocks, the beat indeed goes on.
DDG is speaking out in defense of the mother of his child, Halle Bailey, as social media users chime in on the singer’s reaction to their baby Halo appearing on Kai Cenat’s livestream earlier this week.
Bailey faced backlash after saying she was “extremely upset” that DDG took the baby on the stream, although she later admitted that she may have overreacted.
However, DDG is asking fans to “leave Halle alone,” acknowledging her struggles with postpartum depression. He addressed the situation on his YouTube channel, denying it was a publicity stunt to promote his upcoming single, insisting he just knows how to flip negative attention.
DDG said that although he can withstand the “cyberbullying” he’s endured for several years and has developed a thick skin, he cannot abide fans hating on Halle Bailey.
“I don’t care if people think she wrong or not,” he said. “She could be going through something mentally after having a kid that I can’t understand as a man. So when situations like this happen, I try to handle it with as much grace as possible.”
DDG expressed their desire to create a “safe, fun and memorable” childhood for Halo. He added, “I wouldn’t have him, if it wasn’t for Halle. And for that reason alone, I got unconditional love and respect for her that nobody can really change.”
After previously declaring she was “extremely upset” and deactivating her social media, Bailey ultimately conceded, “maybe i did overreact,” and acknowledged that their son is “always safe” with DDG. Bailey added that she hated finding out her son’s whereabouts along with the public. The Little Mermaid actress also thanked Kai Cent for his gifts to Halo.
Young Thug’s sister, Dora Williams, is calling for clout chasers to back off, asking that supporters “shower” the rapper with love.
Thugger was released from jail last Thursday (October 31), after taking a non-negotiated plea deal following more than 900 days behind bars while on trial.
While fans are clamoring for Young Thug to make his first public appearance and are eager to hear new music from the ATL rap icon, his sister is asking fans to allow him time to process the trauma he’s endured.
On Thursday, a week after Thug’s release, his sister Dora Williams shared a message on social media.
“I really wish everyone value the fact that my brother is human & actually went thru a lot of trauma,” Williams tweeted. “As did his family.”
Williams clarified that Young Thug doesn’t want people around for “clout” and that he’ll return to the limelight in due time. In the meantime, she urged his friends and supporters to cloak him with love.
“If he’s asking for you to come around him it’s to just chill not gain clout,” she added. “You all will have that opportunity when he’s ready. Rn, shower him with love pls.”
Young Thug’s Sister Dolly Hints At Football Game Appearance
Thug was rumored to be stepping out on his first outing in public at a Colorado University football game. Young Thug’s sister Dolly White replied to Coach Prime’s son, Deion Sanders Jr. wish. He tweeted that it would be “LEGENDARY,” if the rapper came to one of the Buffaloes’ final games.
”We comin,” White replied. A short while later, Sanders Jr. revealed, “Talked to her and Thug on FaceTime last night…it’s happening.”
Although Young Thug is yet to be seen in public, T.I. shared a video of their recent meeting. Thug also made an appearance with his attorney Brian Steele via a Facetime call with a class of law school students.
Rashida Jones shared a precious memory of her late father, music legend Quincy Jones, in the wake of his passing at age 91.
On Thursday (November 7), the actress and filmmaker paid tribute to the legendary composer who produced Thriller for Michael Jackson and worked with many other legendary artists, including everyone from Ray Charles to Frank Sinatra.
She shared a throwback photo of herself as a baby with her father alongside a heartfelt message.
“My dad was nocturnal his whole adult life,” she explained. “He kept “jazz hours” starting in high school and never looked back. When I was little, I would wake up in the middle of the night to search for him. Undoubtedly, he would be somewhere in the house, composing (old school, with a pen and sheet music). He would never send me back to bed. He would smile and bring me into his arms while he continued to work.”
Rashida recalled, “There was no safer place in the world for me.”
Categorizing Quincy Jones as “A giant. An icon. A culture shifter” and “A genius,” Rashida continued.
“His music (and ALL of his work) was a channel for his love. He WAS love,” she added. “He made everyone he ever met feel loved and seen. That’s his legacy.”
Rashida concluded her tribute to Quincy Jones, “I was fortunate enough to experience this love in close proximity. I’ll miss his hugs and kisses and unconditional devotion and advice. Daddy, it is an honor to be your daughter. Your love lives forever.”
So, Waka Flocka has come out swinging as one of the loudest Donald Trump fans in the rap game right now. We already knew he was rocking with the Big Cheeto a little bit before, but we let it slide. Back then, it was like, “Okay, first Trump run, that was kinda an experiment.” But now? It’s different. This time, these dudes are really doubling down, and it’s getting… well, kinda weird.
I mean, it’s like they just don’t care about the culture or the people who got them where they are. The stakes are high right now, and folks are side-eyeing anyone who’s out here cheering for Trump. This is not the Super Bowl. It’s not just about politics anymore—it’s about loyalty to the hood.
There was this promoter (apparently a wine or liquor company or something) that booked Waka for a show. Then, out of nowhere, they pulled the plug. Why? Straight up, because of his political stance. They claim they had no idea he was riding for Trump and that they’re “not political” or even “a music person.” Bruh. How do you not know this? His customers were loud and they made it clear they don’t want Waka.
Anyway, they canceled his show, and they’re probably just gonna eat that deposit. One thing’s for sure—they’re definitely selling Uncle Nearest, that Black owned whiskey! Looks like they’re taking a stand against MAGA. I love it.
