Xzibit recently opened up about his strong support for Conor McGregor and the origins of their professional relationship.
The former Pimp My Ride host spoke about McGregor during his recent appearance on the Bootleg Kev podcast, which follows the UFC fighter’s conviction in a civil sexual assault case in Ireland in November 2024. The West Coast rapper, who signed with McGregor’s Greenback Records last year, shared insights into what makes their collaboration unique and why he stands by the MMA superstar despite his recent legal issues. Xzibit began by describing how the partnership came to be, recounting a trip to Ireland where he met McGregor’s team.
“We went out to Marbella, Spain, well, first we went to Ireland and I met the team of people that he [McGregor] wants to form Greenback Records with,” Xzibit explained. “These people have worked in the buildings. They’ve been in there. They’re music people with the business people. So I wanted to check that out. I was like, okay, cool. That makes me feel a lot better.”
Xzibit speaks on signing to Conor McGregor's Greenback Records and makes it clear he's stayin' down with Conor McGregor despite him losing a civil lawsuit, where he was ordered to pay $250K to a woman who claimed he r*ped her.
The meeting led to further discussions with McGregor himself, culminating in Xzibit witnessing the bare-knuckle boxing scene in Spain. “That’s basically how it happened,” he said. “When we came home, it was just like, okay, it’s time to go. We’re gonna push go and we pushed the button. That sh*t’s working.”
Xzibit emphasized that McGregor’s approach to the music industry is what sets him apart from other athletes who have tried to launch record labels. “We’ve seen athletes try to do the label thing. But usually, it’s like football players and basketball players that also kind of want to rap,” he said. “No, he’s not trying to rap whatsoever. He’s approaching it differently and he’s not jaded by any other record politics that we all know about. He’s literally looking at this like fight promotion.”
This innovative perspective resonated with Xzibit, who admitted that the fresh approach to the business excites him. “We’re talking about approaching it like that, really building it in that fashion,” he said. “And that’s exciting to me. Again, the risk versus reward, I’ve never been afraid to step out on faith.”
When discussing McGregor’s personal character, Xzibit acknowledged the controversies surrounding the fighter but made it clear where he stands. “I gotta look at it like this; If you can’t stay down with the people in their dark times, you don’t deserve to stand up with them in the light,” he stated. “From what I’ve seen, the dude is doing the best he can. Great businessman too. His whiskey’s huge.”
Xzibit also addressed reports of McGregor’s whiskey company distancing itself from him, calling it a surprising move given the brand’s success. “It’s crazy because without him, there’s no [Proper No. Twelve]. But it is what it is,” he said. “I stay down. I don’t desert my people in their time of need.”
Last year, McGregor was on the receiving end of a major legal loss in a civil sexual assault case, where he was ordered to pay €250,000 to accuser Nikita Hand. His rival Jake Paul wasted no time throwing verbal jabs at the UFC star and UFC president Dana White in a disparaging remark on Twitter.
Ice-T was pulled over in New Jersey last May while driving his Porsche 911 without a front plate.
Upon further inspection, the officer discovered his license and registration were expired, which led to a heated exchange with the Law & Order: SVU star. Now, the body cam footage of the interaction has been released—and Ice-T does not mince words.
In the clip, Ice-T is seen sitting in his car as the officer runs his plate. Once he gets the information that he’s been riding illegally since 2021, Ice-T explains he was heading to the Department of Motor Vehicles to straighten out his paperwork.
The officer says, “You know your registration has been expired since 2021,” to which Ice-T replies, “That’s where I’m going. I’m headed there.” Officer says, “When did you decide?” and Ice-T answers, “I went yesterday.”
The officer continues, “But what I’m saying is, it’s been expired since 2021.” Ice-T claims, “Car’s been parked,” to which the officers asks, Are you sure?”
Ice-T snaps back, “Yeah, of course I’m sure. That’s why I’m trying to get this car set up. Yesterday I went to the DMV and they said their system was down. I got seven cars, I’m trying to get them all straight.”
The conversation starts to take a turn when Ice-T suggests the officer follow him to the DMV and tells him, “You don’t gotta be that serious about this.” He adds, “I mean you can, but you don’t have to.”
As the officer continues to press Ice-T and look through his paperwork, the officer tells him he’s going to tow his vehicle.
“You’re not finna to tow my f###### vehicle,” Ice-T says. “Let me park my car right here.” Once the officer demands his keys, the West Coast gangsta rap icon gets visibly heated. He hands over the keys and says, “If I’m not under arrest, I’m getting out of the car.”
That’s where things go left and Ice-T snaps, “Give me my paperwork you f###### a######. Give me my f###### paperwork.” He then looks right at the camera and says, “Get this on camera. This muthafucker…I’m a foot away from the DMV. You’re an a######.”
The cop maintains Ice-T was the “a######.” He replies, “How am I the a######? I showed you all my paperwork. Let me start recording your dumb ass.”
Once the cop’s superior showed up, the officer who pulled him over places the blame solely on Ice-T. The Body Count powerhouse ended up with four tickets, including one for driving with a suspended license, but he was ultimately allowed to leave with his car—much to the chagrin of the uptight officer.
A viral video of Young Thug teasing new music has been met with both excitement and backlash on social media.
In a post AllHipHop shared on Instagram on Thursday (January 2), Thug’s fans turned up in droves in response to the snippet that Atlanta rapper shared of himself vibing to an unreleased cut he’s presumably recorded since he was released from jail in October.
As Thug’s diamond shine in the dark, his face is completely blacked out as he can be heard over the studio speaker rapping, “Never associate with a rat/Go and get some money and get a pack/Hit her in the car at the Saks [Fifth Avenue].” Given his cryptic tweet-and-delete spree months ago in which he called on Lil Baby to drop a song on these rats, fans began speculating online if the bars could be a jab at Gunna.
“Homeboy is beefing with his best selling artist,” a user wrote in the comments section of the snippet post.
Another user chimed in with a lengthier remark, criticizing Young Thug’s judgement of the situation at large when it comes to the YSL RICO case.
“I mess with me Jeffery but he’s gonna have to take real responsibility for his actions,” the user wrote. “Gunna was/is his artist an he should’ve protected him better before and during that whole ordeal. Streets and business never mix well.”
“Thought he told judge he was going positive and let his music inspire kids,” a user wrote in another remark stamped with a crying laughing emoji.
One user suggested Thug may not even be talking about Gunna and just deep in his cadence bag, writing, “No he’s not talking about Gunna because he told the judge he wants to continue to work with him.”
“He talking about Woody,” another user added.
Judge Whitaker slapped Young Thug with a 40-year sentence, with the first five years commuted as time served. She also sentenced him to 15 years of probation and thousands of dollars in fines. Additionally, he must complete 100 hours of community service each year, including delivering four annual presentations on gang and gun violence at a school or boys or girls club.
Thug is barred from the Atlanta Metro area for the first 10 years of his probation, save for attending a funeral, wedding or such event of a close family member.
Trae Tha Truth has started off the New Year with his heart full after making his blended family whole again following months of turmoil.
On Thursday (January 2), the Houston native posted a heartwarming video of his reunion with his six-year-old daughter Truth. Last month, Trae revealed he was in need of help finding his missing daughter, who he alleged was “kidnapped” by her mother following a visit over four months ago.
Though he didn’t go into the specifics of the circumstances in which his daughter was returned, he did share how the high-stress situation afforded him the opportunity to learn an immense lesson on the power of faith in the caption of the post.
“Never Let No One Tell You GOD Aint Real!!!!” Trae started off in the lengthy message. “The First Day Of 2025 I Received A Call That I Couldn’t Believe… (THEY SAID SHE WAS FOUND) I Know GOD is the ONLY REASON I Held On when I wanted to Give Up…. I Had To Let Go And Trust Him, Tho it was Hard in these Last Past Months I was Completely Broken and Empty… I Learned To Have Faith….”
As he continued, he praised the higher power for allowing him to find a path to enlightenment throughout the ordeal. “Tho i didn’t know where Truth Was , I Knew God Was Protecting Her so that was The Beginning Of My Understanding Faith….” he wrote. “I Have to let tha world Know GOD IS THE ONLY REASON IM REUNITED WIT MY TWIN AND HEART!! God put the Right People In Place, GOD Place the Right Eyes To See, GOD Put it on Peoples Heart To Assist And GOD Aligned Every Person That Prayed and Heard They Cry!!”
Trae concluded the message by offering words of wisdom and encouragement to parents who may have experienced similar situations.
“Thank You God!!” He wrote. “To Everyone Goin thru similar situations with their Children, Use Me As A Example That GOD Can Make Miracles and Shake Up Tha World!! DONT GIVE UP , Just Believe, Pray and Keep Faith!!! He Told Me No More Sad And Depressed Days, He Told Me To Celebrate and Smile, So i will Obey And Make This Year Bigger And Better Than Ever!!!! This will Be My Season!! #TruthIsBack 💙 @iambabytruth”
Trae’s reunion with Truth caps off what was an emotionally draining saga which began for him on August 16 when he dropping his daughter with her mother in Houston for her “first visitation” after a judge granted him full custody of the child at the beginning of 2024. This incident, however, isn’t the first time he’s dealt with issues related to custody of his children. Trae Tha Truth opened up about his custody struggles during an interview with AllHipHop in 2022.
“It’s a process,” the rapping philanthropist shared. “It’s taking its wear and tear on me just trying to be an actual father.” He explained the “stressful situation” has thrown him off. He added, “I’m supposed to be promoting the music, but it’s overtaking everything.”
2024 was an insane year for Hip-Hop. The year showed us there are no boundaries to the culture. We found that the old-school artists came out in force and helped shape the narrative that there is no age limit on what is largely considered to be a youth-oriented sport.
Conversely, artists such as GloRilla proved that there are oftentimes preconceived notions that can be proved wrong. Lastly, numerous artists expanded the creative possibilities in Hip-Hop culture. Tyler, The Creator, JPEGMAFIA, Ka, MC Lyte, Ka and—of course—Kendrick Lamar, were many that expanded the universe of rap.
Although there was no shortage of drama, stress and weakness, we realized that musically it was overall a really good year for music. In fact, it set the table for an even better year in 2025.
Common and Pete Rock – The Auditorium Vol. 1
In The Auditorium Vol. 1, Common and Pete Rock united (or reunited) their towering legacies to deliver a masterpiece. This collaboration was a long-overdue reunion of lyricism and masterful production. Hip-Hop Hooray! Common, the Grammy-winning voice multi-hyphenate, proved his three-decade career has only gotten better.
Pete Rock, an architect of ’90s East Coast Hip-Hop, seamlessly blended jazz, funk, and boom-bap. This is a gem with guests like Jennifer Hudson on the spiritual “A God (There Is)” and Posdnuos of De La Soul on the reflective “When the Sun Shines Again.” But the duo is the centerpiece. The Auditorium Vol. 1 never feels like nostalgia—it’s timeless.
Released: July 12, 2024.
GloRilla – Glorious
Lovers of “Real Hip-Hop” tried to act like GloRilla did not do that sh#t in 2024, but they would be wrong. GloRilla’s Glorious was a standout. Glo’s charisma, unapologetic Southern style, and introspective storytelling make her one of rap’s most exciting voices. She won everybody else over.
Glorious isn’t perfect, but it’s a powerful debut that sets the tone for a promising career. She offered a lot. She had “Procedure” (featuring Latto), “How I Look” (with Megan Thee Stallion) and even “Rain Down on Me,” a gospel-like track featuring Kirk Franklin. It was tracks like “Let Her Cook” and “Hollon” that sealed the deal. Features by Bossman Dlo and Sexyy Red actually detracted from the album’s allure. With Glorious, GloRilla proves she’s here to stay. The best part? She’s only getting started.
Ka’s The Thief Next to Jesus is more than Hip-Hop. The opus is a masterful meditation on faith, morality and survival. The Brooklyn MC’s legacy had long been solidified as one of Hip Hop’s most profound voices. This project was released months before and immortalized him, highlighting his ability to present minimalist and deeply resonant art. Tracks like “Beautiful” and “Tested Testimony” showcase his signature style.
Ka’s career was defined by thematically rich, but musically restrained projects. In The Thief Next to Jesus, he deepened his exploration of spirituality as we were about to lose him. The Thief Next to Jesus is not just a standout in Ka’s catalog but a landmark in Hip Hop. It is a cohesive, introspective work that will be studied for years. It demands and rewards deep listening. Lastly, it is a fitting farewell to one of our best creators.
Released: August 19, 2024.
Skyzoo – Keep Me Company
Skyzoo’s Keep Me Company is a Hip-Hop masterpiece. The music is hearty and the lyrical depth she raise the bar. It dropped in November and realigned year-end lists immediately. Skyzoo represented an MC at peace with his craft, but not satisfied with the state of affairs. This is not about reinvention or change but refinement of his own art. He embraced jazzy, soulful production and story-telling. There aren’t a lot of co-conspirators, but Chuck D pulls up on “Courtesy Call.“
“Record Store Day” is one of the strongest tracks with a charm with nostalgic feel that evokes love of vinyl culture and that special someone. Deeply personal tracks like “Sleeping Beauty” and “Wins of the Father” delve into further into family and gratitude. Keep Me Company is a timeless project that will keep getting played in 2025.
Released: November 29, 2024.
Cavalier – Different Type Time
Different Type Timeis a beautiful reflection on life and a love letter to Hip-Hop. It is showcased Cavalier’s masterful storytelling and lyrical superiority. Producers like Quelle Chris, Ahwlee, and Messiah Musik, give a seamless experience ever over 21 songs. Cavalier’s introspective journey dives deep into life’s complexities but feels natural and unfettered by anything. A hidden gem, Different Type Time invites listeners to hit play, put on headphones, and let Cavalier guide them through a musical journey.
Released: April 19, 2024.
Tyler, The Creator – Chromakopia
Tyler, the Creator’s Chromakopia somehow managed introspection and chaos. Reflection and maturity were on the menus for one of Hip-Hop’s most enduring characters. Drawing from electronic music, jazz, soul, R&B, and Hip-Hop, Tyler’s latest felt like Flower Boy (2017) but through a darker. Tyler lyrically confessed about adulthood, fame, relationships, and even fatherhood.
Tracks like “Take Your Mask Off” and “Noid” confronted themes of vulnerability and the pressures of fame. Conversely, “Darling, I” and “Like Him” delve into family ties oozing sincerity. The production balanced his musicality and Tyler’s lyrics. Collaborations with artists like Doechii and Schoolboy Q add thick layers to Chromakopia.
Tyler’s mother narrated the album, making it feel personal and grounded. Chromakopia leaps between chaos and calm. A layered, authentic exploration of growth, this album was a freer, more vulnerable chapter in Tyler’s evolution
Released: October 28, 2024.
Slum Village – F.U.N.
In 2024, Slum Village came back. The Detroit duo of T3 and Young RJ, continued their legacy with a new chapter. The album kicks off with “Welcome,” featuring Chi-town’s Brittney Carter, where she says “We might have been through hell, but we together in these slums.”She’s the opening act for Slum Villiage’s for a bold return. Tracks like the funky “All Live” and its sequel, “All Live 2” featuring Phat Kat, bring energy and Detroit swagger, while “To the Disco” grooves with warlord-level confidence. Karriem Riggins, Cordae, Larry June, and others joined the celebration. Detroit pride was in full swing, on F.U.N., cementing a triumphant return after eight years.
T3 and Young RJ stayed true to their signature sound while collaborating with other legends and fresh talent. They proved their resilience and Slum Village’s overall relevance in Hip-Hop.
Released: May 3, 2024
Logic – Ultra 85
Logic’s Ultra 85 was a heartfelt conclusion to his decade-long story. From the explosive 9-minute opener “Paul Rodriguez” to introspective tracks like “Teleport” and “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” Logic’s flows are razor-sharp. He skates effortlessly over jazzy beats crafted by him and 6ix.
Logic dives deep in, talking anxiety and self-reflection, delivering mature and emotional bars. With an hour-plus runtime, Ultra 85 can get repetitive. Overalll, as a sequel to The Incredible True Story, Ultra 85 stands strong. It’s a fitting addition to Logic’s recent streak of great projects like No Pressure, Vinyl Days, and College Park. If you’ve been a fan from day one, this one’s definitely for you. If you are a newb, get to digging.
Released: August 9, 2024.
Benny The Butcher & 38 Spesh – Stabbed & Shot 2
Benny the Butcher and 38 Spesh reunite for Stabbed & Shot 2, delivering a gritty sequel that surpasses both the original and maybe Benny’s recent Everybody Can’t Go. This project reaffirms their dominance in street rap.
Kicking off with “Still Better” and “1st of April,” V Don’s boom-bap beats set the tone as the duo flex their street credibility. Tracks like “High Stakes” and “Thruway Music 2” continue the dark, cinematic vibe, while “Who Really the King?” and “Center Stage” explore loyalty and street life over Harry Fraud’s soulful production. Singles like “Jesus Arms” featuring Busta Rhymes and “Brick Specials” highlight their ability to craft vivid, mobster-themed narratives.
Collaborations with Dave East, Ransom, and Elcamino on tracks like “Coke Runs” and “Power” add depth, while “Hometown Hero” pays homage to their Buffalo and Rochester roots. Over six years, Benny and Spesh have honed their craft, creating a sequel that not only lives up to the original but sets a new standard.
Stabbed & Shot 2 is a triumphant return to Benny’s underground roots, delivering one of the year’s finest street rap projects.
Released: October 18, 2024.
Mach-Hommy – #RICHAXXHAITIAN
#RICHAXXHAITIAN (2024) is a standout addition to Mach-Hommy’s discography, solidifying his reputation as a master of abstract lyricism and gritty production. Following acclaimed projects like H.B.O. (2016) and Pray For Haiti(2021), this 17-track album delivers a rich blend of sharp bars, multilingual flows (English, French, Haitian Creole), and immersive beats, hinting at an artistic evolution.
The production is stellar throughout, with soulful contributions from Quelle Chris and Georgia Anne Muldrow, alongside haunting soundscapes by Conductor Williams and August Fanon. Jazz, reggae, and other influences enrich the instrumentals, perfectly complementing Mach-Hommy’s signature slow flow. Guest features from Black Thought, Roc Marciano, and Drea D’Nur further elevate key tracks.
Tracks like “COPY COLD” and “HOLY ____” showcase catchy hooks alongside elite lyricism, while the album’s second half shines with innovative song structures and thematic depth. Haitian identity and social issues serve as the album’s core, with Mach-Hommy weaving poignant commentary into his narratives.
#RICHAXXHAITIAN a rewarding listen that demands attention.
Released: May 17, 2024
JPEGMAFIA – I LAY DOWN MY LIFE FOR YOU
JPEGMAFIA continues to push boundaries in I LAY DOWN MY LIFE FOR YOU, delivering a bold, unpredictable project that cements his reputation as one of Hip-Hop’s most innovative artists. Known for fearless experimentation on albums like Veteran (2018), All My Heroes Are Cornballs (2019), and LP! (2021), “Peggy” takes another daring step forward, blending chaos, introspection, and genre-defying production.
The album opens with “i scream this in the mirror before I interact with anyone,” setting a confrontational tone with a Dillon Brooks comparison. His production is a kaleidoscope of glitchy electronics, metal riffs, and eclectic samples, from Succession to Brazilian funk. Tracks like “it’s dark and hell is hot” and “vulgar display of power” are nods to DMX and Pantera. And that his just the first half of the album.
The second half shifts to a peer within. Tracks like “loop it and leave it” feature string-heavy instrumentals. Lyrically, JPEGMAFIA is unapologetically sharp, addressing industry critiques and politics. Standout moments include Vince Staples on “New Black History,” which tackles cultural commodification. Denzel Curry’s explosive performance shines on “JPEGULTRA!”
With its mix of raw energy, emotional depth, and inventive production, I LAY DOWN MY LIFE FOR YOU is a testament to JPEGMAFIA’s versatility and fearless artistry, reaffirming his place as one of music’s most dynamic voices.
Released: August 2, 2024.
Lupe Fiasco – Samurai
Lupe Fiasco’s ninth studio album, Samurai, is a creative concept project inspired by neo-soul singer Amy Winehouse. Get this: Wasalu Muhammad Jaco imagines the late, beloved singer as a battle rapper. It is a compelling, but at times imperfect listen.
Highlights like “Samurai” and “Cake” feature minimal, jazzy beats that perfectly complement Lupe’s dense rhyme schemes. The standout track is “No. 1 Headband,” a lyrical masterpiece. A terse eight tracks and 30-minute runtime, there is little room for error on Samurai.
Nevertheless, Samurai surpasses Drill Music in Zion (2022) but doesn’t quite reach the heights of Tetsuo & Youth (2015), Drogas Wave(2018), classics like albums, Food & Liquor (2006). Despite its flaws, it’s an awesome addition to his discography, warranting repeat listens.
Released: June 28, 2024.
Kendrick Lamar – GNX
The man of the year did something he had not done for quite some time – shocked us. Seriously, Kendrick Lamar’s GNX is a surprising departure. The album delivers a loose, visceral project that feels more like a West Coast mixtape than a conceptual opus. While it showcases his clever wordplay, fiery delivery, and hard-hitting beats, it lacks the ambition of To Pimp a Butterfly or Good Kid, M.A.A.D City. That is not a bad thing. He sounds relaxed and at peace, if war was peace.
Opening with “wacced out murals,” Kendrick fires shots at the industry with pounding drums and ominous strings. Standouts like “reincarnated” delve into soulful introspection, while tracks like “gloria” and “luther,” enhanced by SZA’s smooth features, add depth. However, not all experiments land—“gnx” and “dodger blue” suffer from weak production, a recurring flaw.
Less cohesive than his previous works, GNX feels like a snapshot of Kendrick’s current mindset: mature, reflective, and unconcerned with perfection. It’s not groundbreaking, but it doesn’t try to be. Engaging and oddly transformative, GNX proves that even a looser, relaxed effort from Kendrick is leagues ahead of the competition.
Released: November 22, 2024.
Freddie Gibbs – You Only Die 1nce
Freddie Gibbs delivered another solid project with You Only Die 1nce, proving his consistency and lyrical prowess. This solo effort stands strong even though it does not hit the heights of his Madlib collaborations like Piñata (2014) or Bandana (2019). Gibbs worked with a range of producers, creating a smooth, cohesive sound that lets his relentless flow and lyrics shine.
Over chill beats, Gibbs dives into his past and pays homage to fallen homies. The production is understated, keeping the focus on his bars. At 37 minutes, there are no features or gimmicks. This is a tight, grounded effort that showcases Freddie’s personal growth and talent.
You Only Die 1nce does not reinvent the wheel, but it’s a testament to Gibbs’ status as one of Hip-Hop’s most consistent voices. With this album, he keeps fans eagerly anticipating what’s next—especially Montana with Madlib.
Released: October 31, 2024.
Doechii – Alligator Bites Never Heal
Alligator Bites Never Healis the debut mixtape from Tampa emcee Doechii, marking a bold step forward in her career. Emerging in 2019 with her EP Coven Music Session, she gained momentum with Oh the Places You’ll Go and Bra-Less, eventually signing to Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE)/Capitol Records in 2022. That year, released she / her / black b#tch. Now, she returns with Alligator Bites Never Heal, a project showcasing her unyielding creativity and raw talent.
The mixtape, which is nominated for a Grammy, begins with “STANKA POOH,” a haunting opener that sets the stage for a backward narrative, followed by “Bullfrog,” a bass-heavy boom bap track targeting online bravado. “Boiled Peanuts” maintains gritty kicks and snares, while “DENIAL IS A RIVER” channels DJ Premier-inspired production to reflect on Doechii’s rise over the past five years.
“CATFISH” cements her as the “Ruler of the Swamp,” blending boom bap and hardcore energy, before the trap-heavy “SKIPP” sees her swiftly dominating competitors. “HIDE N SEEK” pairs atmospheric production with introspection, and the moody “BLOOM” explores personal growth.
Tracks like “WAIT” advise patience over cloudy production, while “DEATH ROLL” reintroduces a trap flair with a relentless edge. “Profit” pledges allegiance to financial growth through soulful layers, and “BOOM BAP” humorously jabs at critics with drumless chipmunk soul.
The mixtape shifts gears with “NISSAN ALTIMA,” blending trap and pop rap as Doechii demands her due, and “G###,” featuring kuntfetish, aggressively clears the path for her dominance. Tracks like “Huh!” and “Slide” showcase her versatility, balancing playful and sultry tones.
Alligator Bites Never Heal solidifies Doechii’s place as a force to be reckoned with and established her as 2024’s disruptor. If this is the mixtape, the album will be beyond classic.
Released: August 30, 2024
Blu & Evidence – Los Angeles
Los Angeles by Blu and Evidence is a heartfelt homage to the City of Angels, uniting two of its finest talents to craft a vivid sonic portrait. Blu’s introspective lyricism and Evidence’s versatile production come together to capture the city’s gritty yet sun-drenched essence. For Blu, whose breakthrough with Below the Heavens cemented his place in underground Hip-Hop, this album marks a triumphant return to form, showcasing some of his strongest work in years.
“54th,” the opening track, is a stripped-down tribute to the neighborhood. It also sets the tone for an authentic journey through L.A.’s streets. Tracks like “The Land” and “3 Wheel Motion,” featuring legend Kokane, deliver a vibe perfect for unwinding. “Heaven” blends gospel-infused production with poignant storytelling, and “L.A. Traffic,” featuring Cashus King and Self Jupiter, literally discusses the town’s famous gridlock.
Collaborations elevate the project, with highlights like “Lights at Night,” featuring Domo Genesis and Navy Blue, painting a striking picture of L.A. at night, and Evidence stepping to the mic on “Wish You Were Here” for a soulful performance. Evidence’s production shines throughout, seamlessly blending jazz, boom-bap and psychedelic elements, creating the perfect backdrop for Blu’s thoughtful delivery. Los Angeles is a masterful tribute to the city and a testament to Blu and Evidence’s artistry.
For fans of introspective lyricism and expertly crafted beats, this album is a must-listen, offering an authentic and engaging ode to the City of Angels. It’s a standout project that resonates with both longtime fans and new listeners alike.
Released: July 12, 2024
ScHoolboy Q – Blue Lips
After a five-year hiatus, ScHoolboy Q returns with Blue Lips, his highly anticipated sixth studio album—and it was well worth the wait. This project masterfully balances dualities, blending jazzy, soulful vibes with menacing beats, and mixing mature introspection with sharp trash talk. A significant step up from CrasH Talk (2019), Blue Lips rivals Q’s best work, including Blank Face LP (2016).
Blue Lips radiates Q’s signature darkness while pushing inventive production. Beat switches and soulful samples complement his dynamic delivery perfectly. The first half is strong, with standout guest appearances from Freddie Gibbs, Ab-Soul, and Rico Nasty.
Q’s willingness to experiment shines. The second half of Blue Lips doesn’t fully match the intensity of the first, but the album remains cohesive and engaging. Blue Lips is a bold, modern rap album that cements ScHoolboy Q’s place as a compelling voice.
Released: March 1, 2024
MC Lyte – 1 of 1
MC Lyte’s 1 Of 1 marks the return of one of the culture’s queens. The BK native delivered a cohesive 50-minute album after a decades-long absence. Her best work in a very long time, this project reasserts her presence in Hip-Hop. Balancing bars and R&B-infused hooks is not easy in this environment. Produced by talents like Warryn Campbell, Nottz, and DJ Scratch, the album follows 2015’s Legend and features standout features with Queen Latifah, Big Daddy Kane, Stevie Wonder, and more.
The album opens with the reflective “Thank You,” featuring Muni Long and Mary Mary, and explores themes of success with a heavy gospel vibration. There are also empowerment tracks like “Life & Luxury” and “King King.” Lyte’s vintage style shines in “To Rock the Mic” and “1-5,” while “Alright” and “Music Is” offer introspective wisdom. Highlights include “Change Your Ways” (her most streamed song) with Common and Stevie Wonder, and the lead single “Woman,” featuring Big Daddy Kane and Cheryl “Salt” James.
Lyte’s influence, spanning decades and collaborations with icons like Janet Jackson and Beyoncé, continues to inspire with 1 Of 1. More than a comeback, it’s a powerful statement of her enduring relevance and skill in Hip-Hop.
Released: September 20, 2024.
Rapsody – Please Don’t Cry
Five years after her acclaimed album Eve, Rapsody returns with her fourth studio LP, Please Don’t Cry, an introspective project that blends soulful production, razor-sharp lyricism, and newfound vulnerability. Highlights include the Hit-Boy-produced “Asteroids,” showcasing Rapsody’s skills. “3:AM,” a favorite, featured Erykah Badu. Tracks like “Look What You’ve Done” delve into the challenges women face in the music industry.
Comparable to classics like Little Simz’s Sometimes I Might Be Introvert and Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly, Please Don’t Cry offers a rich mix of introspection, social commentary, and boundary-crossing musicality. Despite its length, the album flows seamlessly, reflecting Rapsody’s growth and emotional depth. It’s a genuine and powerful addition to her already stellar discography. While slightly overlong at 22 tracks, the album’s standout moments more than compensate for its minor missteps.
Please Don’t Cry solidifies Rapsody’s place as one of Hip-Hop’s most skilled storytellers.
Released: May 17, 2024
Boldy James & Nicholas Craven – Penalty Of Leadership
Boldy James kicked off 2024 with Penalty of Leadership, his second full-length collaboration with Nicholas Craven. After a quiet 2023 due to a serious accident, this album was highly anticipated, and it delivers a solid addition to Boldy’s discography. Craven’s soulful sample-driven production creates a rich sonic backdrop, perfectly complementing Boldy’s signature deadpan delivery.
While not his absolute best work, Penalty of Leadership showcases Boldy’s strong pen game and maintains his consistent tone. Tracks blend candid reflections on his accident with classic braggadocio, offering depth and authenticity. This release signals a strong start to the year for Boldy and Hip-Hop alike. For the record, Boldy’s The Bricktionarywith Harry Fraud is pretty darn dope too.
Released: January 12, 2024.
Kota the Friend – Lyrics to GO, Vol. 5
The birthplace of Hip-Hop continues to produce top-tier lyricists, and Kota the Friend is no exception. While he’s a bit more introverted than his legendary BK brethren, Kota again delivers fantastic storytelling and introspection with Lyrics to GO, Vol. 5. His latest full-length project is another notch in the beloved series that began four years ago.
True to Kota’s style, the tracklist is lean and focused, leaving no room for error—and he nails it effortlessly. His flows feel natural and unforced as if the beats conform to him rather than the other way around. This is a rare quality among today’s rappers. With standout singles like “YUMA” and production credits from heavyweights like Hit-Boy and Statik Selektah, along with Dakun, Exile, and Sango, Vol. 5 is another testament to Kota’s lyrical and musical prowess.
Released: January 25, 2024
Vince Staples – Dark Times
Vince Staples gets deeply personal on Dark Times, his most introspective album since 2015’s Summertime ’06. With a slower, atmospheric production style influenced by jazz, the album explores past struggles, present challenges, and themes of religion, societal pressures, and personal growth.
While Dark Times prioritizes cohesion over catchy hooks, standout tracks like “Black & Blue” and “Freeman” showcase Vince’s sharp storytelling and lyricism. The subdued vibe may leave some missing the energy of his earlier work, but this mature and thoughtful project cements Vince as one of modern Hip-Hop’s most compelling voices.
Grounded and honest, Dark Times is a reflective journey and one of Vince Staples’ best works in years.
a powerful blend of his gritty storytelling and top-tier production split between Hit-Boy and The Alchemist. With two decades in the game and iconic projects like Tana Talk 3 and The Plugs I Met under his belt, Benny delivers a versatile album that solidifies his place in rap’s upper echelon.
Tracks like “Jermaine’s Graduation” and “Bron” set a triumphant tone, while collaborations with Lil Wayne on “Big Dog” and Stove God Cook$ on “1 Foot In” showcase his chemistry with peers. Highlights include “T.M.V.T.L. (Trust More Valuable Than Love),” which explores loyalty over love, and “Pillow Talk & Slander,” featuring Babyface Ray and Jadakiss, addressing the pitfalls of success.
With standout features from Conway the Machine, Snoop Dogg, and Armani Caesar, Benny’s major-label debut balances introspection, Classic Hip-Hop, and even some trap influences. This album is a testament to perseverance, growth, and skill. The Butcher doesn’t miss.
Released: January 26, 2024
Mutant Academy – Keep Holly Alive
What if Wu-Tang came from Richmond, Virginia? Mutant Academy. The collective project Keep Holly Alive is a celebration of their decade-long grind. The nine-man crew, led by Fly Anakin, Big Kahuna OG, and Henny L.O., delivers smoke-session bars over soul-sample-heavy, gritty East Coast beats reminiscent of Golden Era Hip-Hop.
Known for their solo and joint mixtapes (Holly Water and Ohbliv’s beat tapes are standout gems), Keep Holly Alive showcases their lyrical prowess and deep roster of producers, who provide a rich, cohesive sound. It’s a testament to Mutant Academy’s dedication to keeping their scene alive and thriving.
Released October 8, 2024
LaRussell & P-Lo – Majorly Independent
P-Lo’s Majorly Independent beats are a soulful tribute to Bay Area rap, blending the legacy of Too $hort’s pimp tales, Mac Dre’s hyphy energy, and HBK Gang’s block-party vibes. His thumping drums, funky basslines, and inventive sample flips create tracks that demand booming sound systems and bring fresh life to nostalgic sounds.
LaRussell, known for his ultra-positive energy and backyard residency performances, perfectly complements P-Lo’s production. As an archivist of Bay Area hip-hop, he bridges generations, with moments like Oakland legend Richie Rich freestyling on a busted knee adding to the project’s vibrant, cross-generational appeal. Majorly Independent is a joyous celebration of Bay Area culture.
Released: July 7, 2024
Per usual, we left the last slot open for YOU to give us your favorite album of 2024. With hundreds of projects, albums and EPs being released in 2024 alone, there are plenty that could have been included.
Tyrese and his girlfriend may not be on the same page when it comes to their relationship timeline, and according to the 1992 film star its because of his previous romance.
In a candid and playful Instagram livestream with his girlfriend Zellie Timothy, the R&B singer and actor gave fans a glimpse into the quirky dynamic of their relationship during an eyebrow-raising exchange. As the couple bantered about traveling and marriage, Zellie playfully accusing Tyrese of not wanting to tie the knot after a fan insitigated the conversation.
“He doesn’t want to marry me,” Timothy teased, prompting Tyrese to respond with a mix of humor and clarity. “I don’t want to marry you? What do you mean, babe?” he asked, laughing off her comment before addressing the real reason behind his hesitation.
“It’s not true,” he said. “I’m just waiting on my divorce to be finalized so I can get into this new paperwork.”
Despite the back-and-forth, Tyrese emphasized his love for Timothy, brushing off the playful tension.
“She’s just talking sh#t,” he said, lightheartedly attributing her remarks to the effects of Tequila. The couple continued to share affectionate exchanges, with Timothy adding, “I love you,” to which Tyrese replied, “I love you.”
The livestream concluded with Tyrese offering fans his signature words of wisdom.
“Appreciate the love, y’all,” he said. “Happy birthday, happy new year. Be safe out there. Do the best you can with what you have, man. Keep love alive,” he said.
Though it appears as though the subject of marriage could dbe causing some friction in their relationship, Timothy would be smart to follow her partner’s lead — given his two previous experiences with the sanctity of holy matrimony between man and woman. Tyrese first married Norma Mitchell in 2007. They ended up calling it quits in 2009, though they share a daughter together named Shayla. Additionally, Tyrese’s ongoing divorce from fitness influencer Samantha Lee has been making headlines since their split in 2020. The two share a daughter, Soraya, and have been navigating the complexities of co-parenting while finalizing their divorce proceedings. With the legal process still underway, Tyrese’s lighthearted comments about “new paperwork” suggest he’s eager to move forward while respecting the current chapter of his life.
Bobby Shmurda gave some valuable words of wisdom based on his personal experiences during his recent visit to a New Jersey High School.
On Thursday (January 2), the “Hot N*gga” rapper shared an Instagram post chronicling his experience as the Principal For The Day with Hot 97 at East Orange High School. Packed with snapshots and video of Shmurda interacting with the young minds at the school, the post shows the New York rapper clearly enjoyed himself. In the caption he expressed his gratitude for the opportunity while remarking on the irony of it all in one fell swoop.
“Principal for a day ha ha ha Principal Shmurda,” Shmurda wrote in part. “So why this is super interesting to me, is because I never graduated from junior high school yeah I know I started early anyway so it is a honor for Principal Whitaker, to allow me to become principal of East Orange high for the day it was a amazing experience yall go check it out YouTube @hot97 principal for the day #PBC.”
In addition to the post he shared, Hot 97 also released a 39-minute episode of Shmurda’s Principal For The Day school visit that also captured his lengthy motivation speech to students during an intimate question and answer session.
Reflecting on his meteoric rise and subsequent fall, the rapper offered a candid account of his transformation, starting with the moment he went from being one of the hottest names in music to facing prison time. He started off in 2014, when Shmurda’s breakout single “Hot N*gga” dominated charts and sparked viral dance trends. But just four months into his success, his world came crashing down.
“I was Bobby Shmurda for like four months, 120 days, then I got locked up,” he recalled. Shmurda admitted that his troubled past as a juvenile delinquent caught up with him.
“I used to get locked up a lot,” he added. “First time I got locked up, I was about 12 years old, 2007, for crack cocaine. My friends were four or five years older than me, and my mom, she used to just cry all day.”
The rapper’s time in prison was marked by chaos and self-destruction. “The first three, four years, I was running around, gang banging, smoking weed, cutting people, doing all types of dumb sh*t,” he admitted.
His behavior led to frequent transfers and disciplinary actions. He continued, “They kicking me out of here, they kicking me out of there, everywhere.”
A pivotal moment came when Shmurda met a notorious figure in the New York criminal world, Nicholas “Fat Cat” Minucci, who’s been incarcerated since 1985. Fat Cat’s words struck a chord with the young rapper.
“This guy that 50 Cent and everybody rap about, his name is Fat Cat, Nicholas Fat Cat, right,” he said. “And he has 40 to life, right? He has 40 to life. He told me, ‘Bobby, you’re like the smartest, stupidest muthaf*cka I ever met.’ I’d be like, ‘Yo, what you mean by that?’ And he’d say, ‘You come up with these whole smart plans to get money, to do this and that, and then you just f*ck it all up for somebody else.'”
Fat Cat’s insight forced Shmurda to confront a hard truth about himself. “I had to stop making people define my behavior,” he explained. “Every time I was about to go somewhere, a miserable person could just define my behavior. If my behavior ain’t going to get there, I’ll do something, and I’m in jail now. You can never prosper with that.”
Check out the video of Shmurda’s speech to the youth in the post below.
Charleston White is back on Twitter and already stirring the proverbial pot just two days into 2025.
During a recent Spaces conversation, the outspoken internet personality was asked about gangs and his thoughts on older men who are still gangbanging. Par for the course, White didn’t hold back and said shared his controversial opinion.
“A n#### 30 years old doing what?” he asks in the clip, to which someone off-camera replies, “Still Crippin!”
White fires back, “Oh, he’s a fa####. N#### Crippin’ past 22 is a [intelligible]; he likes boys. One thing I will say about a n#### that’s still gangbanging—whether you a Crip or Blood—you wake up every day looking to go be with another n####. Every day, you wake up looking to go be with another n####. All day, every day. N####, you a homosexual. That’s a whole definition of a homosexual.”
White then calls both the Bloods and Crips a “fa#### organization like the NBA.” He continues, “The Crips and the Bloods is an organization like the NBA—fa####. Ain’t nuthin’ wrong with being that, but don’t try to come play like you not that. Stop trying to play gangster and you secretly got homosexual tendencies. Come on out the closet, n####. Come on out, cuh. I like an open homosexual, a n#### that’s with the s###.”
Of course, White has spoken on gangs before. In June 2024, he spoke on the ongoing beef between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. Lamar, who shot the “Not Like Us” video in his hometown of Compton drew huge crowds, including rival gang members.
White emphatically stated the only reason Kendrick Lamar invited the rival gang members to “The Pop Out: Ken & Friends” concert was for the optics—not because he necessarily wanted to broker peace in his community. He also insinuated Kendrick’s concert did nothing to stop gang violence from continuing.
“Kendrick did that for a video shoot,” he said. “He didn’t do that to bring n##### together. Them n##### just found something to dance to.”
White went on to insist Drake is the superior artist, saying, “Let me just say this. Drake a way better rapper. I know Drake’s songs. I ain’t never heard a n#### in Texas pull up bumping Kendrick’s s### or nothing. I was just going against the grain. Let’s be clear. Kendrick can’t compare unless you like twisting your fingers up like the retarded people. That’s the only way you gonna like Kendrick, you’ve got to be retarded.
“Sensible people don’t gravitate to that b#######. So, so what he gave theses up and coming artist the spotlight for the day. Most of them will be dead tomorrow due to the gang politics. California, Compton or whatever you want to call it, homie is not [inaudible]. Why would go shoot somewhere where nothing grows, everything dies? For what?”
White’s latest commentary is just another one in a long string of inflammatory hot takes that get the internet riled up. Watch it above.
UPDATE: Well, it looks like Waka Flocka is saying “AH-HA” about the assault claims. According to him, nobody reached out to his team to confirm the story. He’s pointing a finger at the media—but hold on a minute.
This guy sat in front of a phone and lied about getting beat up. Why would the media need to confirm something if he’s the one telling the lie? We assumed he was telling the truth. Even then, we filed this under our rumor section. We didn’t believe him from the start! Silly rabbit! Tricks are for kids!
By the way, this isn’t an indictment of the media. This is about Waka Flocka clearly not understanding how media works. I find it hilarious that some people are actually going to believe what he says. But smarter minds know better. This is no more an indictment of the media than Waka rapping about being a killer. It simply means he lied—and people took him at his word.
Now, when he actually does get beat up again, which will inevitably happen, just like it has in the past—nobody will care. And then he’ll complain nobody reported on it.
Just in case you wanna see Waka get stole on anyway, see another assault below
I’ll be the first to say that nothing on the internet feels entirely real these days. But here we are, navigating through the noise. Over the weekend, reports surfaced about Waka Flocka being assaulted by a group of people. However, by the end of his admission, Waka suggested the whole ordeal might have been fake—a prank involving makeup. Looking at the initial photos of his supposed injuries, it’s hard to believe they’re just makeup effects.
Southside, a prominent producer, rapper and songwriter from Atlanta, chimed in on the situation. Known by his Instagram handle “Mafia Boss,” Southside has built a reputation as someone who speaks his mind without apologies. When Waka Flocka discussed the incident, he mentioned that no one stepped in to help him during the alleged attack. But Southside responded with a comment implying something different, essentially saying, “Stop playing with people—nothing happened to you.”
This raises questions. My sources claim the altercation did happen, allegedly fueled by alcohol and hot tempers. Southside’s comment could mean a few things: maybe it didn’t happen at all, or perhaps the story is exaggerated. Maybe it wasn’t a group of ten people, but one, two, or three individuals involved. For now, it’s unclear how this will unfold, but it seems Waka might have taken a loss.
One thing is certain: public perception of Waka Flocka has shifted, and many people in the comments are unsympathetic. His unwavering support for former President Donald Trump has alienated parts of his fan base.
What do you think about all this? Share your thoughts below.
With two shows remaining in his Las Vegas residency, a viral review has already sparked widespread attention for its scathing critique.
On New Year’s Day, Ja Rule reposted a clip from blogger Jennifer Gay, who’s better known as Vegas Starfish to her 1.7 million TikTok followers.
Gay claimed to have seen 50 Cent make “pure magic” decades ago but panned his In Da Club show.
“The sound was balanced poorly making it impossible to hear the performance,” she noted. “His hypemen were unrelenting and overbearing making it difficult to hear anything but their echos.”
According to Gay, promoters promised “an unforgettable night full of surprises and energy,” but she says it was anything but.
“The only surprise was the lack of energy. There was almost no crowd engagement,” she added. “This was the worst live performance, for any artist, I’ve ever attended.”
I’ve seen 50 Cent perform in warehouses in Memphis, TN (where I’m from) decades ago and it was pure magic. His limited time residency in Las Vegas was the opposite of that. The sound was balanced poorly making it impossible to hear the performance. His hypemen were unrelenting and overbearing making it difficult to hear anything but their echos. The stage design and graphics felt like they were organized 15 minutes before the show with a Chat GPT prompt for “90’s hip hop images”. During the build up to this show, 50’s publicists suggested this would be an unforgettable night full of surprises and energy. The only surprise was the lack of energy. There was almost no crowd engagement, the calls for an “encore” began 63 minutes into the performance and he returned to do another 15 minutes before unceremoniously leaving the stage without so much as a Thank You. This was the worst live performance, for any artist, I’ve ever attended. I understand that he’s successful and doesn’t need a residency, so why do it if he doesn’t want to put any effort into it? #vegas#lasvegas#vegasstarfish#50cent#gunit#vegasshow#vegasnews
Ja Rule also swiftly clapped back at detractors in his replies.
“Where is your residency ?” one person asked. “At least he booked, busy and getting paid.” Ja replied, “As usual, I did it first…” and went on to argue that he not only did it better but also sustained it with longevity.
His criticism of 50 Cent’s Vegas residency comes just days after Ja Rule slammed 50 Cent over a longstanding rumor.
Fif previously claimed he bought out the first four rows of one of Ja’s concerts leaving the front rows empty.
“You believe this dumb s###???” he tweeted before calling 50 Cent a “a fat f###### LIAR.”
Boosie has made a habit of buying luxury vehicles for his children, so this latest gift should come as no surprise.
However, while many praised the lavish present, critics also scrutinized Boosie. Some questioned if he could take the car back after previously seizing the pink Mercedes-Benz he gifted daughter Toriana Hatch for her 16th birthday in 2023.
Boosie fired back at the critics, defending his parenting in a lengthy social media post.
He blasted the naysayers, telling them to “Be happy” for his daughter. “SHES A 16 YEAR OLD STRAIGHT A STUDENT WITH A 2025 PORSCHE THATS PAID FOR,” he stated.
Boosie then referenced the controversy over daughter Tori’s vehicle. Back in 2023, Boosie and his daughter clashed in a heated online spat. He went on to diss Tori and her mother on the song “Ungrateful” and even went as far as removing his daughter from his will.
Boosie Defends Taking Daughter Tori’s Car
Nonetheless, Boosie proudly boasted he’s only taken one car back out of the five he’s given his children.
“SOME KIDS PHONES GET TAKEN WHEN THEY MESS UP,” he continued. “N SOME KIDS CARS GET TAKEN WITH THEY MESS UP ,ITS CALLED #parenting.”
He added, “SO YALL WORRY BOUT THEM ANDRIODS N IPHONES N IM GO WORRY ABOUT THESE PORSCHES , BENZES N AUDI TRUCKS LOL N ONE MO THANG ‼️WHAT DID YOUR BABYDADDY GET YOUR CHILD FOR HER 16th? WHAT DID YOUR DADDY GET YOU FOR YOUR 16th ? WHERE IM FROM DOING FOR YOUR KIDS IS [‘Keeping it Gangsta’].”
Meanwhile, Boosie recently revealed he’s expecting his ninth child. The rapper and his fiancée, Rajel Nelson, are expecting a little girl.
50 Cent is trolling his old rival Kanye West over recently released footage from Ye’s deposition in a 2020 lawsuit.
Clips from A&E’s Interrogation Raw: Celebrity Under Oath, recently went viral, but the G-Unit mogul still finds humor in them.
On Wednesday (December 1) 50 Cent kicked off the new year by sharing his reaction to Kanye West’s bizarre deposition.
The clip begins with Kanye West, who covered his face with a mask, asking if he’s going to jail over the complaint. However, attorney Michael Popok quickly intervenes, firmly advising West to limit his responses to directly answering the questions posed.
“No I’m asking,” West interjects. “Ekwan, can I go to jail off of anything related to this lawsuit?”
Popok attempts to repeat himself, but West cuts him off again.
“What you mean I can’t ask my lawyer a question,” he stated. “You crazy. You don’t know who you talking to. I’m not some slave of yours, boy.”
50 Cent found the encounter entertaining, noting that while he admires some of Kanye West’s antics, they aren’t moves he would make himself.
“I be liking some of the s### Yeezy be doing, but I’m not doing it,” he wrote in the caption. “I don’t understand why he do it . LOL.”
This isn’t the first deposition clip the “Man Men” hitmaker has reacted to. Last month, 50 Cent posted another clip of Kanye West declaring himself the “richest Black person in the history of America.”
Meanwhile, in other 50 Cent news, a review of his Las Vegas residency is going viral. Local blogger Jennifer Gay — known as Vegas Starfish to her 1.7 million TikTok followers — panned the In Da Club shows.
She called the set “the worst live performance, for any artist, I’ve ever attended.”
I’ve seen 50 Cent perform in warehouses in Memphis, TN (where I’m from) decades ago and it was pure magic. His limited time residency in Las Vegas was the opposite of that. The sound was balanced poorly making it impossible to hear the performance. His hypemen were unrelenting and overbearing making it difficult to hear anything but their echos. The stage design and graphics felt like they were organized 15 minutes before the show with a Chat GPT prompt for “90’s hip hop images”. During the build up to this show, 50’s publicists suggested this would be an unforgettable night full of surprises and energy. The only surprise was the lack of energy. There was almost no crowd engagement, the calls for an “encore” began 63 minutes into the performance and he returned to do another 15 minutes before unceremoniously leaving the stage without so much as a Thank You. This was the worst live performance, for any artist, I’ve ever attended. I understand that he’s successful and doesn’t need a residency, so why do it if he doesn’t want to put any effort into it? #vegas#lasvegas#vegasstarfish#50cent#gunit#vegasshow#vegasnews
Offset is seemingly putting his marriage to Cardi B behind him, kicking off 2025 with a bevy of beauties in Dubai, pausing his performance to plant a kiss on one.
The former Migos rapper rang in the New Year with a celebration in the United Arab Emirates. Footage from the event shows Offset partying with a group of women, paying special attention to a blonde woman seen getting handsy with him on multiple occasions.
In one video, Offset pauses his performance of the Migos hit “Straightenin” to kiss the mystery blonde standing on the side of the stage.
Offset also went live on Instagram from the party, showing off the women dancing around him.
“I ain’t begging for nothing, p####! I’m him! Y’all n##### done forgot!” he told fans in the comments. “Yeah, Set popping P! Hello!”
Offset also appeared to dismiss suggestions he was “hurt” over his split from Cardi B.
“I’m hurt?” he said, clutching his mystery lady, who shielded her face from the camera. “Please! I have them joints! I have them joints!”
Despite his remarks about Cardi B, Offset launched into a rant about the mother of his youngest children just minutes before midnight struck on January 1.
“Sent me a pic of a N#### attacking you from the back [crying laughing emoji],” he tweeted. “Your friend been smacked too.”
Offset also shared several follow-up tweets, insisting he doesn’t want Cardi B and announcing he’s got a “new joint.”
Offset shares a few messages while entering the New Year with a few ladies in Dubai: “dese folks getting f*cked idgaf, new joint hello.” He also responded to a Twitter user claiming he was crashing out because Cardi B doesn’t want him anymore — “Don’t want the hoe you trippin.”… pic.twitter.com/nKzt1Lc1qr
Cardi B meanwhile rang in the New Year at a nightclub where Offset’s ex-Migo counterpart Quavo was also celebrating. The pair were spotted sharing a shot to toast to the late Takeoff.
Joey Bada$$ kicked off the new year in attack mode with a new freestyle that has fans wondering if the Brooklyn lyricist is sending shots at Kendrick Lamar.
The NYC native is determined to put East Coast rap back at the forefront following a dominant year from West Coast rappers.
The title of the freestyle, “The Ruler’s Back,” serves as a homage to NYC legends Jay-Z and Slick Rick. Jay-Z’s single of the same name was itself a nod to Slick Rick’s iconic album.
“I was sittin’ back, watchin’ from an eagle eye,” he raps. “Tryin’ not to react, just give me one reason/ I swear I’m on full attack, East Coast n#### ’til I die/ It’s clear who the heir, apparent king of NY, n####,”
Joey Bada$$ also throws some shade with a quote from Hov’s “Reasonable Doubt,” referencing the line “Too much West Coast dick lickin,’” from “22 Twos.”
Elsewhere in the freestyle, Joey Bada$$ declares: “This that black Air Force energy” and “This ain’t boom bap,” which many online have taken as allusions to K. Dot’s “Watch the Party Die” cover image and GNX cut, “peekaboo.”
The track sparked controversy on X (Twitter) with fans debating whether Joey Bada$$ dissed Kendrick Lamar or if he was just repping the East Coast.
“If Joey Badass didn’t reference Kendrick in that freestyle, no one would’ve cared about it,” one critic asserted. “They all lack originality. They use Kendrick lingo/bars/flow. It’s like they are too egotistical to admit that they are influenced so they start to attack him to feel like they are #1.”
If Joey Badass didn’t reference Kendrick in that freestyle, no one would’ve cared about it.
They all lack originality. They use Kendrick lingo/bars/flow. It’s like they are too egotistical to admit that they are influenced so they start to attack him to feel like they are #1. pic.twitter.com/MSwqBwrzUM
Others expressed a more nuanced opinion, with another person stating, “Not all competitive rap is based off of animosity. Sometimes being competitive is about wanting to be the best. And the best rappers want to be the best while knowing and respecting the culture. Kendrick Lamar and Joey Badass are not enemies. Both can be great and can coexist.”
Not all competitive rap is based off of animosity.
Sometimes being competitive is about wanting to be the best. And the best rappers want to be the best while knowing and respecting the culture.
ok i’m ngl i don’t see why y’all are mad at joey badass for what he said. hip hop is a competitive sport at the end of the day, i promise kendrick’s feelings aren’t hurt abt this. kendrick most likely respects joey for what he did pic.twitter.com/4Msq4OukBt
I’m kinda surprised ppl are looking at this Joey Badass and Conductor track as a Kendrick diss, the whole title is a homage to Jay-Z and Slick Rick, it just seems like he’s telling NY hip hop to step up.
— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod 🇸🇴 (@big_business_) January 1, 2025
Waka Flocka sparked concern after sharing an image of his apparently battered and bruised face on social media, claiming he was jumped by a group of 10 assailants.
On Wednesday (January 1), Waka took to social media with a graphic photo showing off his injuries. A pair of black eyes and multiple bloody abrasions on his face indicated a nasty beating.
He recounted the incident in the caption, claiming he was attacked and complaining that no one intervened.
“Can’t believe nobody helped me fight ten nixxas off,” Waka shared. “But I’m still standing ten toes marks.”
He followed up on his Instagram Stories with a black and white video showing the same injuries.
Nonetheless, Waka Flocka got little sympathy from fans in the comment section.
“Maybe you should have used those ten toes and ran,” one fan shared. “Aren’t you too old for this fighting crap, JS.”
Another also highlighted his age, adding, “You too old to be posting this. Too old to not have people around you to help you. (You might be the problem if you are who you are and not one person helped you lol)Too old to be in a position like this. Bad for the brand. Self reflection 2025.”
Others still referenced his support for Donald Trump, taunting the rapper with remarks like, “Tell the MAGAs to help you next time.”
However, it appears Waka Flocka pranked his fans about getting jumped, and the apparent injuries were likely stage makeup.
Just two hours after complaining about being jumped, Waka posted a video on his Instagram Stories showing off his unblemished face.
“Crazy y’all n##### believe that s###,” he said, laughing.
At least 10 people have been injured in a shooting outside the Amazura nightclub in Queens, New York on Wednesday night (January 1).
According to an NYPD press conference, officers received multiple reports of a shooting at around 11:18 p.m. on New Year’s Day.
Approximately 90 people were attending a private event in the upstairs area of the club, while around 15 others were outside waiting in line to enter as the event had reached full capacity.
Authorities report four males approached the venue on foot. At least three of them opened fire in the direction of the group waiting to get inside the venue. The gunmen fired over 30 times, striking multiple victims.
The suspects then fled on foot westbound on 91st St towards 143rd Pl, where they entered a light-colored sedan with out-of-state plates.
Ten victims—six women and four men—all thought to be between 16 and 20 years old, were identified and transported to the hospital. Officers report all of the victims are expected to recover with non-life-threatening injuries.
The NYPD confirmed the incident was not a terrorist attack. However, officers said it is too early to determine if the shooting was “gang-related,” amid rumors the party was to celebrate the birthday of a gang member slain last October.
The shooting in Queens, New York, comes in the wake of the terror attack in New Orleans hours earlier on New Year’s Day.
Local and state police were on high alert, with New York Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York City Police Department stating there were no credible threats to the state or the city.
Ice Cube may have inspired comedian Mike Epps to branch out following their collaboration for the West Coast veteran’s latest album.
Last November, a video of Cube and Epps in the studio with producer Zaytoven made its rounds on social media. At the time, it appeared as though Epps was simply fooling around with the “No Vaseline” hitmaker and freestyling over Zaytoven’s patent trap production.
However, that same month Ice Cube released his latest album Man Down, which is home to the track “No Cap,” a collaboration with Epps and Zaytoven. In an Instagram post Epps shared on Wednesday (January 1), he reacted to Cube’s recent interview with Sway Calloway by thanking the multi-platinum MC for giving him the opportunity to appear on the project.
“S/o to @icecube for putting me on his new album MAN DOWN iam rappin like a mf and I write my own raps on the track,” Epps wrote. “s/o to my guy @djfunkyatl and creating the beat with @zaytovenbeatz #alltheironsinthefire slid the picks !!!! COMEDY ALBUM COMING SOON.”
The new collaboration between Ice Cube and Epps marks the beginning of yet another triumphant chapter in their decades long friendship. Last March, Epps recalled how Cube helped him navigate a tough time in his life when he battled his addiction and mental health while filming their favorite movie All About The Benjamins.
“I’ve been on drugs, I’ve been through hell,” Epps told Barnes and Jackson. “I did most of the movies on cocaine. All About the Benjamins, I was—man, I used to sit in Ice Cube’s trailer in the morning and be crying tears. He like, ‘Mike, wipe your face, man. You a king, n####. Stop doing this s### to yourself.’ I’m sitting there wiping myself ‘cause I was really, really, really—I had survivor’s remorse.”
The legal battle between rap legend JAY-Z and Jane Doe has tumbled into 2025 as Jane Doe’s attorney, Tony Buzbee, unleashed a sharp critique of JAY-Z’s motion to dismiss her sexual assault lawsuit.
The high-profile case, stemming from allegations of a 2000 assault, has seen JAY-Z’s defense team mount a multi-faceted argument for dismissal. But Buzbee is firing back with equal ferocity, trying to dismantle the foundation of the rapper’s claims.
Buzbee’s response, filed on behalf of his client, portrays JAY-Z’s legal strategy as misguided, premature and inconsistent with the law’s intent. He argues that the law is on his client’s side, and he’s not afraid to pick apart every element of the business tycoon’s defense.
One of JAY-Z’s key defenses is that the New York City Victims of Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Act (GMV Law) doesn’t apply retroactively, as the alleged assault occurred in September 2000—three months before the law was enacted.
However, Buzbee argues that this interpretation undermines the very purpose of the statute, which he claims was a federal civil remedy for gender-motivated violence. He cited the legislative history of the GMVA, which he says was designed to give victims a pathway to justice—even for incidents that occurred before the law’s enactment.
Buzbee dismissed JAY-Z’s reliance on lower-court rulings as unconvincing, pointing out that neither the Second Circuit nor the New York Court of Appeals has definitively ruled on the retroactivity of the GMVA.
JAY-Z’s team also contends that the GMVA claims are time-barred under the Child Victims Act (CVA), which preempts overlapping statutes. Not so, argues Buzbee.
He pointed to prior court decisions where similar preemption arguments were rejected.
“Local anti-discrimination laws are generally not preempted by state law in New York,” Buzbee asserted, adding that JAY-Z’s reliance on this argument is legally flawed.
JAY-Z’s final line of defense is geographic. His team claims the alleged assault took place outside New York City, making it ineligible under the GMVA.
Buzbee, however, called this argument both premature and procedurally improper and urged the court to deny the motion on these grounds, emphasizing that discovery hasn’t yet begun.
“The GMVA was designed to help survivors, not to give alleged perpetrators a loophole,” Buzbee seethed.
A Tesla Cybertruck exploded in flames outside the Trump Hotel Las Vegas on Wednesday (January 1), killing one person and injuring at least seven others. Videos taken by witnesses inside and outside the hotel showed the vehicle exploding and flames pouring out of it outside of the hotel.
The incident occurred just hours after a man drove a truck into crowds of New Year’s Day revelers in New Orleans, killing at least 10.
“Obviously a Cybertruck, the Trump hotel — there’s lots of questions that we have to answer,” Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Sheriff Kevin McMahill said at a press conference.
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Tesla CEO Elon Musk and an adviser to President-elect Donald Trump claims the blast was unrelated to the Cybertruck itself.
“We have now confirmed that the explosion was caused by very large fireworks and/or a bomb carried in the bed of the rented Cybertruck and is unrelated to the vehicle itself,” Musk said in a post on Twitter (X). “All vehicle telemetry was positive at the time of the explosion.”
A person was found dead inside the 2024 model-year Cybertruck and seven people sustained minor injuries from the explosion, McMahill said. News reports said the fire was being investigated as a possible terrorist act. The FBI is also investigating.
“We’ve got a lot of questions,” special agent in charge Jeremy Schwartz said. “We’re deploying resources. We will continue to do that until we get to the end of this and figure out exactly what happened and why.”
Offset and Cardi B’s relationship drama is spilling over into 2025 and now Quavo has been dragged into the mix.
Precisely four minutes before the proverbial ball dropped ringing in the new year, the former Migos rapper unleashed a scathing tweet targeting his estranged wife. In the short yet piercing message, Offset appeared to accuse Cardi B of sending him a picture of herself being intimate with another man. Along with the aforementioned accusation, the Father Of Four rapper alleged that mystery man wasn’t the only individual who Cardi had recently been with.
”Sent me a pic of a N#### attacking you from the back [crying laughing emoji] your friend been smacked too,” Offset wrote in the tweet.
Offset didn’t stop there and continued to go off in a series of tweets.
“Dees folks getting f#cked idgaf,” he wrote in a remark before adding in another, “F#ck the OPps idc. I’m back to me offset f### ya.”
Further complicating matters, a video began circulating on social media of Cardi B and Offset’s ex-Migo counterpart Quavo taking shots together at what appeared to be a New Year’s Eve event at a nightclub. While it appeared as though the pair were simply sharing a toast together and nothing more, the internet immediately ran with the opposite narrative.
A media outlet on Twitter (X) shared a video of the interaction between the pair in a tweet, writing, “Ex stripper Cardi B on her revenge tour to get back at her husband by hanging wit offset cousin ‘Quavo’.”
Though it’s unclear if Offset’s tweets were at all directed at Quavo, it’s worth noting that the pair of rappers appeared to be on a path to reconciliation throughout 2024. Though Quavo previously described Cardi and Offset’s drama as a “soap opera” in September 2023, he seemingly patched things up with Set last March. Offset actually opened up about the state of their relationship during an appearance on Gillie Da Kid and Wallo’s Million Dollaz Worth of Game podcast.
“I don’t feel like I owe it to people to show how much me and bro love each other,” he explained. “We went through something. We don’t have to show you smiles on faces … so stop doing that.”
Offset explained there’s no animosity between he and Quavo, and they celebrate each other’s successes.
“We aint on no sucker s### with each other. We both came in this s### together and we both knew that, we understood that, and we lost our brother,” he continued. “I still go through s###; I know bro go through s###. N##### love each other though at the end of the day. We men, we real brothers, and we cool with it, so be cool with it.
