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Ice-T, Treach & Chuck D Join Dozens Of MCs For “Spit Or Quit” Tribute To DJ Kay Slay

DJ Kay Slay died unexpectedly in 2022, leaving the Hip-Hop community in a state of shock. At the time of his passing, his friends and family vowed to carry on his legacy.

Legendary New York City promoter Van Silk is among those people. Last week, Van Silk released the first volume of “Spit or Quit,” a nearly 50-minute exposé of some of the best MCs in the business. From Ice-T and Naughty By Nature’s Treach to Public Enemy’s Chuck D and Digital Underground’s Money B, there’s no shortage of talent displayed throughout the video.

Other contributions come from fashion designer April Walker, Def Jam Recordings first publicist, Bill Adler, Video Music Box co-founder Ralph McDaniels and The Furious Five’s Melle Mel.

“‘Spit or Quit’ is a spin-off of my brother DJ Kay Slay’s ‘Rolling Deep’ series of MCs, which I helped with,” Van Silk explains to AllHipHop. “So myself, Nero and Kay Slay’s partner The General decided to continue the legacy. My team Preacha Earl, Freedom Williams, DJ Kevie Kev Rockwell, Sweety G and videographer E-Boogie got Volume One done with production by The Furious Five’s Rahiem and DaNyA the OG.”

DJ Kay Slay, whose real name was Keith Grayson, was hugely influential as a DJ, record executive and music producer. He was known for his work in promoting and breaking new Hip-Hop artists and impactful mixtapes, which often featured exclusive tracks and collaborations.

Kay Slay’s influence extended beyond the mixtape scene. He was also a radio personality, hosting “The Drama Hour” on New York’s Hot 97, where he played a mix of mainstream and underground Hip-Hop. His nickname, “The Drama King,” came from his reputation for being involved in high-profile beefs and playing diss tracks during Hip-Hop rivalries.

He released several studio albums, including The Streetsweeper series, which featured a mix of established and up-and-coming artists. He was not only respected for his dedication to Hip-Hop culture but also his ability to bring together artists from different regions and styles.

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Kay Slay passed away on April 17, 2022 due to complications related to COVID-19. Following his death, Snoop Dogg, Ice-T, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, AZ, Run-DMC, Bun B, Big Daddy Kane, Coke La Rock, Kid Capri, Goodie Mob, B-Real, Memphis Bleek, Twista, E-40, Jim Jones and many more contributed to the biggest posse cut in Hip-Hop history, “Rolling 200 Deep.”

Released in November 2023, the track was divided into 16 parts spanning 62 minutes and featuring 200 rappers. It marked the fourth installment in DJ Kay Slay’s Rolling Deep series, which includes Rolling 25 Deep (2005) Rolling 50 Deep (2020) and Rolling 110 Deep (2021).

“I think Papoose oversaw the project once Slay passed,” Big Daddy Kane told AllHipHop at the time of its release. “I’m super glad that someone took this project over and got it out to truly send Kay Slay off with the honor and gratitude he deserves. He has always been a true supporter of authentic Hip-Hop and 200 MCs on the same track is a hell of a way to leave a legacy behind.”

Find a list of the contributors below and the audio here.

Intro
1. Rayvon
2. G Dep
3. Flowers!
4. A.L
5. International DJ Finesse
6. Omega
7. King Sun
8. Treach
9. Delateni Da Emperor
10. Contageous Funk
11. Tricky T
12. Sincere
13. Nero speaks
14. April Walker speaks
15. Sheri sher
16. Keith KC
17. Freedom Williams
18. Original Slick Rick
19. Bill Adler speaks
20. Sweety G
21. MCK Quess
22. Illuminate
23. Leyro$ee
24. El Sicario
25. Baby D
26. Johnny Wah
27. Rose Gang
28. Preacher Earl
29. Ice T
30. Ras Kass
31. Punchline
32. SilverFox
33. Head Krack
34. NTG
35. Most Supreme Raheen
36. Y.T. Shahee
37. Ralph Mcdaniels Speaks
38. Broc Out
39. Lord Koas
40. John Jiggs
41. Shortee Sha
42. Kasim Allah
43. Major T.M.W
44. Young Hump
45. Money B.
46. Melle Mel Speaks
47. Master Rob
48. Kevie Kev
49. Monia Amore
50. D. Lashon A.K.A DBanga
51. E-Boogie
52. Quita Da O.G
53. Danya The OG Speaks
54. Chill Rob G
55. Phaze Gwad
56. RD Smiley
57. Charlie Prince
58. Jessie West

A$AP Rocky & Ferg Reunite With Key A$AP Mob Members Amid Swirling Feud Rumors

ASAP Rocky, Ferg, ASAP Twelvyy and ASAP Illz may have effectively shushed the deafening buzz created by rumors about the demise of ASAP Mob.

On Monday (August 19), ASAP Illz shared a post on Instagram featuring several photos of himself, Rocky Ferg and Twelvyy casually hanging out on the block. Logistically speaking, It makes perfect sense that they all managed to link up at this specific window in time. Rocky was spotted recently filming a music video in Harlem with Dominican rapper Tokischa while Ferg has also made several appearances across the city throughout the summer.

Additionally, Rocky is readying his highly anticipated project Don’t Be Dumb while Ferg has been firing off a number of fresh releases, such as his “Hot Ones” single featuring Tia Corine and Denzel Curry.

“JUST ME N MY BRUDDAS,” Illz wrote in the caption of the post. “A$AP UP YOU HEARD MOBBING TILL THE CASKET DROP.”

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The reunion of the aforementioned ASAP Mob members certainly provides a silver lining to the cloud of uncertainty that has been hanging over the collective as of late. While it’s somewhat known that Illz and Rocky are very close associates, it has been widely speculated that there is a growing rift between certain ASAP Mom members.

Due to the viral clip of Kai Cenat speaking with Rocky through the connection of Illz, it’s been clear that the “Goldie” rapper is still maintaining his relationship with Mob members.

However, Bari recently called Rocky out, claiming he was never properly compensated for creating the ASAP Mob, and Ferg recently dropped the ASAP from his official stage name. Not to mention ASAP Relli and Rocky are currently locked in a legal dispute over an alleged 2021 shooting incident.

Not to mention the small tidbit that Drake fans believe he recently took a shot at what was presumed a weak spot in the armor of the ASAP Mob on his leaked track “It’s Up.”

“Knocking off the name brand n###as in your crew/Heard you missed your dogs now long live who? Idiot,” Drake raps on the track.

No matter the case, it appears as though the brotherhood of the ASAP Mob shall always strive and prosper on—even through the outside noise.

Check out the post above.

Diddy Accused Of Ruining Cartel Member’s Drug Smuggling

A New York judge dismissed a cartel member named Alfredo P. Gonzalez’s defamation lawsuit against Diddy. Judge Laura Taylor Swain deemed Gonzalez’s case to be frivolous and lacking legal standing, per court documents obtained by NewsNation.

Gonzalez claimed Diddy destroyed the cartel member’s drug smuggling business. Gonzalez said he refused an offer to engage in sex trafficking for the Hip-Hop mogul, resulting in the loss of all his contacts in New York.

Judge Swain refused to let Gonzalez seek damages for his illegal activities. She noted his “business is not alleged to be a legally protected interest” in her ruling.

“Plaintiff, without any legal bases, appears to assert claims of defamation against the defendants, seeking damages arising from injury incurred to his illegal drug smuggling and sales business caused by the defendants’ alleged defamation of plaintiff because he refused to arrange sex trafficking of underage children for the defendants, including what appears to be international sex trafficking,” the judge wrote. “Since there are no apparent legal bases for any of these claims, the court additionally dismisses plaintiff’s claims as frivolous.”

Gonzalez is incarcerated at the Centennial Correctional Facility in Canon City, Colorado. He wanted $666,000 in damages.

Diddy is under federal investigation for sex trafficking. Homeland Security raided his homes in March. He has not been charged with a crime thus far, but a grand jury was empaneled to hear evidence in the federal probe. He maintains his innocence.

Multiple lawsuits have been filed against Diddy over the past year. The civil cases include sexual assault and sex trafficking allegations.

The Bad Boy Records founder settled one case with his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura in November 2023. She sued Diddy for rape and years of abuse, among other claims.

Months after the settlement, the public saw footage of Diddy beating Ventura at a hotel in 2016. The video corroborated some of the details in Ventura’s lawsuit. Diddy said his behavior was “inexcusable” in a since-deleted apology on Instagram.

NBA YoungBoy’s Legal Troubles Get Messier With New Charge

The feds hit NBA YoungBoy with a new gun charge after he declared his intent to plead guilty in a separate weapon case. According to WAFB, he was charged with illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon stemming from his April arrest in Utah.

NBA YoungBoy was allegedly in possession of a Sig Sauer P365 9mm semi-automatic pistol when Utah authorities busted him for prescription drug fraud months ago. The Louisiana native is barred from possessing guns over his conviction for a 2016 shootout.

The 24-year-old rapper was indicted for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of an unregistered firearm after his 2020 arrest in Louisiana. A federal judge dismissed the registration-related charge in March.

NBA YoungBoy was allowed to stay on house arrest in Utah despite his federal gun case in Louisiana. He was arrested for illegally obtaining promethazine with codeine from pharmacies while out on bond. He is now in a Utah jail.

Last week, NBA YoungBoy sought to transfer his 2020 gun case from Louisiana to Utah. As part of the request, he agreed to plead guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

“I wish to plead guilty to the offense charged, to consent to the disposition of the case in the District of Utah in which I am present and to wave trial in the [Middle District of Louisiana],” he said in a court filing.

The request was granted, but NBA YoungBoy must plead guilty for the case to remain in Utah. If he changes his mind, the case will move back to Louisiana. A change of plea hearing is scheduled for September 4.

NBA YoungBoy faces dozens of charges for prescription drug fraud in Utah. His charges include forgery, identity fraud and obtaining a prescription under false pretenses.

SIGNS: Black Ring Mysteriously Appears In Virginia Sky & Stops Traffic On Busy Highway

An ominous black ring in the sky recently stopped Virginia residents in their tracks, literally, leaving them baffled as is vanished just as quickly as it appeared.

A mysterious black ring hovering ominously over a highway in Williamsburg, Virginia, has left locals scratching their heads and snapping photos. According to the New York Post, The eerie sight appeared around 11 a.m. on Tuesday, sending social media into a frenzy as stunned onlookers captured the floating phenomenon from various angles.

The ring, which many assumed was a plume of smoke, lingered in the sky for nearly 10 minutes before completely vanishing, according to witness Ron Stepp, who quickly shared his footage with local news station WAVY TV 10. Despite the ominous appearance of the dark circle, officials from the James City County Fire Department confirmed there were no reports of fires or explosions in the area, leaving the cause of the strange spectacle a complete mystery.

Ricky Mathews, a meteorologist for the station, offered a possible explanation, suggesting that the ring could have been caused by concentrated fire rising from pyrotechnics, perhaps staged for a film production. Another meteorologist, Steve Fundaro, speculated that the unusual formation might have been the result of industrial work or a controlled explosion.

The sighting has since taken social media by storm, with residents calling the spectacle “crazy” and questioning “WHAT THE…?” as they tried to make sense of the bizarre event.

This isn’t the first time an unexplained ring has appeared in the sky, leaving people bewildered. Similar phenomena have been reported in recent years, such as the infamous “smoke rings” that appeared over Kazakhstan and the UK, which were later attributed to accidental releases from nearby factories or pyrotechnic displays gone awry. Historically, there have been accounts of such atmospheric anomalies dating back to ancient times, often sparking fears of supernatural or extraterrestrial activity. Whether the Williamsburg ring was the result of pyrotechnics or something more mysterious, it certainly has people talking.

Fabolous Grants Raunchy Request For Meet & Greet Pose

Fabolous shared a ridiculous photo from a meet & greet at one of his concerts. The Brooklyn-bred rapper admitted fan requests are going overboard in an Instagram Stories post on Tuesday (August 20).

“The requested poses at MEET & GREET’s are out of control,” he wrote.

Fabolous added to the meet & greet discourse, which became a frequent topic surrounding Chris Brown in recent months. Various photos of Brown with fans have gone viral due to the intimate nature of the poses. One woman said her boyfriend broke up with her for closely posing with Brown.

The online chatter eventually received a reaction from Brown himself. He defended his fans and the viral photos.

“PSA!!!!” he wrote. “WHEN ARTIST (EVERYONE) DO CONCERTS, they all have something called a VIP package. I HAVEN’T DONE MEET AND GREETS IN OVER 7 years… I HAVE THE COOLEST FANS ON THE PLANET .. I APPRECIATE THE F### OUTTA THEM. THESE ARE MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST WITH THEM FOREVER. UNLIKE MOST OF THESE LAME ASS ARTIST THAT WON’T EVEN MAKE EYE CONTACT WITH THE PEOPLE WHO MADE IT POSSIBLE TO EVEN HAVE A CAREER. I ONLY EXIST BECAUSE THESE FANS SAW SOMETHING IN ME I NEVER THOUGHT WAS POSSIBLE.. SO I’MA GO ALL OUT FOR MY FANS!!!!”

Check out examples of Brown posing with fans below.

George Floyd Case’s Shocking Update: Ex-Cop Gets Out Of Prison

Thomas Lane, one of the former Minneapolis police officers responsible for George Floyd’s 2020 death, was released from prison on Tuesday (August 20). Ex-cop Derek Chauvin murdered Floyd during an infamous arrest in Minnesota. Lane assisted in the deadly restraint of the victim.

Lane is the first man involved in Floyd’s death to be released from prison. The former officer was convicted of violating Floyd’s civil rights in 2022. Lane was sentenced to two and a half years in federal prison. He was also found guilty on state charges of aiding and abetting manslaughter. A judge sentenced him to three years in prison with two years served concurrently with his federal sentence.

“The tragic death of George Floyd makes clear the fatal consequences that can result from a police officer’s failure to intervene to protect people in their custody,” Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division said. “Had this defendant and other officers on the scene with Derek Chauvin taken simple steps, George Floyd would be alive today. This sentence should send a message that protecting people in custody is the affirmative duty and obligation of every law enforcement officer, regardless of one’s rank or seniority.”

Lane’s federal sentence ended in February. He stayed in a Colorado prison to finish serving time for his state-level charges. He will be on supervised release for one year.

J. Alexander Kueng and Tou Thao, two other ex-cops convicted for their roles in Floyd’s death, are expected to be released from prison in 2025. Kueng and Thao were guilty of the same charges as Lane.

Chauvin received the harshest punishment for Floyd’s death. Chauvin was the cop who knelt on Floyd’s neck for roughly nine minutes. The disgraced officer was convicted of second-degree murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter. He was sentenced to 22 and a half years behind bars.

EXCLUSIVE: Diddy Mounts Vigorous Defense Over Decades-Old Assault Allegations

Diddy is fighting to have a rape and battery lawsuit dismissed, claiming the accusations are unfounded, baseless and barred by law.

Diddy is pushing back against the lawsuit filed by a woman named April Lampros, who accused him of multiple instances of rape and battery that allegedly occurred from the mid-1990s to the early 2000s.

The lawsuit, filed in the New York County Supreme Court, also names Bad Boy Records, Arista Records and Sony Music Entertainment as defendants.

“April Lampros filed this baseless lawsuit more than twenty years after the end of her romantic relationship with [Diddy] represented by an attorney who regularly sues celebrities and was recently chastised by a federal judge for ‘improperly fil[ing] cases to garner media attention, embarrass defendants with salacious allegations, and pressure defendants to settle quickly,'” Diddy’s lawyer Erica Wolff said.

Lampros alleges that Diddy offered to mentor her in the music and fashion industries but instead subjected her to a manipulative and abusive relationship.

Lampros detailed several alleged assaults, including an incident in 1995 where Diddy purportedly raped her in a hotel room after coercing her into drinking.

Another claim states that he forced her to perform oral sex in a parking garage.

In 1996, Lampros claims that Diddy compelled her and his then-girlfriend, Kim Porter, to take ecstasy and engage in sexual acts before raping her.

Further, Lampros alleges another assault happened at her apartment between 2000 and 2001. Diddy has denied all allegations, and his attorney has described the claims as “pure fiction.” The embattled mogul is now trying to get the lawsuit out of court.

“Lampros does not allege how or where [Diddy] purportedly touched her, nor does she claim she sustained any physical injuries,” Erica Wolff explained.

Diddy and Bad Boy Records seek to dismiss the lawsuit, citing various legal grounds. Diddy’s legal team argues that the claims are time-barred, meaning they were filed after the expiration of the statute of limitations for such allegations.

Furthermore, the lawsuit invokes New York City’s Victims of Gender-Motivated Violence Protection Law (GMVL) and the Adult Survivors Act of 2022 (ASA) to support the claims. ​Diddy’s defense team contends that the GMVL claim is not applicable retroactively, as some of the alleged incidents predate the law’s enactment.

Additionally, the lawsuit attempts to hold Bad Boy Records accountable for the alleged misconduct by Diddy.

However, Diddy’s lawyers argue that Bad Boy Records cannot be held liable for actions not within the scope of Diddy’s employment at the record label since none of the alleged incidents happened at the business.

Moreover, the legal team points out that the GMVL did not initially apply to corporate entities like Bad Boy Records, and the amendment expanding liability to such entities is not retroactive. ​Therefore, the claim against Bad Boy Records under the GMVL is deemed invalid. ​

Based on the arguments presented, Diddy and Bad Boy Records seek to dismiss the lawsuit. The legal battle continues as both sides present their case before the court.

Nelly Name-Dropped As Union President Reveals “Trump Is A Scab” Shirt At DNC

Nelly was unexpectedly quoted at the 2024 Democratic National Convention on Monday (August 19). United Automobile Workers President Shawn Fain referenced Nelly’s song “Hot In Herre” before revealing a shirt emblazoned with the phrase “Trump is a scab.”

“In the words of the great American poet Nelly, it’s getting hot in here,” Fain said.

Fain endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in this year’s presidential race. The union leader said the upcoming election offers a clear choice for working-class voters.

“For us in the labor movement, it’s real simple: Kamala Harris is one of us,” he declared.

President Joe Biden closed out the first night of the DNC. He reflected on his political career and showed his support for Harris.

“Kamala and Tim [Walz] understand that this nation must continue to be a place of possibilities,” he said. “Not just for a few of us, but for all of us. Join me in dedicating your whole heart to this effort. And with all my heart, I promise I’ll be the best volunteer Harris and Walz’s camp have ever seen.”

He added, “I’ve made a lot of mistakes in my career. But I gave my best to you. For 50 years, like many of you, I’ve given my heart and soul to our nation. And I’ve been blessed a million times in return for the support of the American people. I’ve really been too young to be in the Senate because I wasn’t 30 yet and too old to stay as president. But I hope you know how grateful I am to all of you … I can honestly say I’m more optimistic about the future than I was when I was elected as a 29-year-old United States Senator. I mean it.”

Harris will officially accept the Democratic presidential nomination on Thursday (August 22).

Gunna Teams With BMAC To Give South Fulton Families $1K Per Month

Atlanta rap star Gunna has joined forces with the Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC) to introduce the Gunna x BMAC 30349 Guaranteed Income Program.

The $500,000 initiative aims to bolster the financial stability of families in South Fulton’s 30349 zip code by providing them with $1,000 monthly stipends starting September 18.

Building on his previous philanthropic efforts—such as Gunna’s Drip Closet, a free in-school clothing store and the Goodr Grocery Store at McNair Middle School—Gunna is committed to uplifting the community.

Gunna explained his motivation behind the program, saying, “When I launched Gunna’s Great Giveaway, my goal was to uplift my hometown by providing resources that could make a tangible difference in at least one household. Partnering with BMAC to introduce the Guaranteed Income program in South Fulton is a significant step toward enhancing these communities and transforming the economic landscape of the city.”

It offers more than just financial relief; it provides comprehensive support services, including financial education and mental health resources.

South Fulton Mayor Khalid Kamau also endorsed the initiative.

“The partnership between Gunna, BMAC, and the City of South Fulton represents a transformative step in addressing the economic disparities that some of our residents face,” Kamau said. “The Gunna x BMAC 30349 Guaranteed Income Program is not just an investment in our city’s future but a powerful example of how we can create meaningful change through collaboration and innovation. I am proud to support this initiative and look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the families in our community.”

The initiative aligns with BMAC’s mission to fight poverty and create equal opportunities for Black and Brown communities nationwide. Beyond financial aid, BMAC will utilize its extensive network in the music, film, fashion and tech industries to provide mentorship to grant recipients.

“BMAC’s mission to achieve systemic equity must begin with economic justice. Black Americans are too often locked out of critical opportunities and pathways to climb the socioeconomic ladder despite being central to every cultural and financial movement in this country’s history,” BMAC CEO Willie “Prophet” Stiggers said. “Partnering with Gunna to bring needed financial relief and, more importantly, mentorship and other services leading to sustainable change is very powerful. Our organization will continue to partner with Artists and others looking to put equity in action so our community can tap into its fullest potential.”

The holistic approach aims to foster systemic change and economic empowerment, ensuring beneficiaries can thrive beyond the initial assistance.

By combining financial aid with essential support services, the initiative stands as a model for meaningful transformation and collaborative efforts to reduce economic disparities.

Will Beyoncé Open For Kamala Harris At Chicago DNC?

Well, I’ve got exciting news: we have a room for all of us! Beyoncé is set to open on Thursday and introduce us to Kamala Harris. As you already know, Kamala has been using Beyoncé’s song “Freedom” repeatedly throughout her presidential campaign. Now, Beyoncé is officially stepping into the political arena. She’s taking a stand, much like how JAY-Z stepped up for Barack Obama, to support the first Black female candidate for president.

What do you think about that?

I think it’s going to be incredible! The Democratic National Convention kicked off last night and, while it wasn’t star-studded, it featured some heavyweights in the political realm—though not quite like the Republican National Convention, which had Hulk Hogan. Ha ha ha! Last night, the Democrats had AOC and Jasmine Crockett, who are stars in their own right and actually have something meaningful to say. So when you consider the impact Beyoncé will have, remember that it’s a different vibe than, say, Amber Rose. 🙄

From what I’ve heard, Beyoncé won’t be doing any talking. She’ll just be doing her thing while Kamala walks out. I’m not exactly sure how it will play out, as usually a loved one like Kamala’s husband would do the formal introduction. But it seems Beyoncé will be involved in some way.

By the way, JAY-Z is reportedly in town too. He’s working with Michael Rubin, Meek Mill, and the REFORM organization. There’s another rumor that JAY-Z might make an appearance in Chicago, where the convention is being held. I wouldn’t hold my breath, but you can bet he’s nearby. Beyoncé is here for this historic moment, and while I wish JAY-Z would lend his voice to the cause in 2024, I understand he’s surrounded by a lot of Republican energy in the business world.

Sometimes, it’s best to stay low and focus on your business. But through Beyoncé, history will be made.

Beyoncé Launches Whiskey Brand SirDavis Honoring Moonshiner Great-Grandfather 

Beyoncé has added another venture to her growing empire, launching her new whiskey brand, SirDavis, in partnership with Moët Hennessy. 

After teasing the liquor on her website on Thursday evening (August 19) Beyoncé unveiled the brand the following morning.  

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A post shared by Beyoncé (@beyonce)

She captioned the post “Davis in my bones,” a lyric from Cowboy Carter song “BODYGUARD.” The Davis in question is Beyoncé’s paternal great-grandfather, who was a farmer and a moonshiner in the American South during Prohibition.  

“I’ve always been drawn to the power and confidence I feel when drinking quality whisky and wanted to invite more people to experience that feeling,” Beyoncé said in a statement. “When I discovered that my great-grandfather had been a moonshine man, it felt like my love for whisky was fated. SirDavis is a way for me to pay homage to him, uniting us through a new shared legacy.” 

She continued, “In partnering with Moët Hennessy, we have crafted a delicious American whisky that respects tradition but also empowers people to experience something new and unique in the category. You can taste it better than I could ever tell you — welcome, SirDavis.” 

In addition to honoring her great-grandfather’s legacy, Beyoncé is paying tribute to her Texas roots. SirDavis is finished, blended and bottled in her home state. 

According to Moët Hennessy’s parent company, LVMH, Bey’s whiskey has already bagged an award. SirDavis won Best In Class for American Whiskey from the 2023 SIP Awards after being anonymously submitted before launch.  

Adding to its credentials, five-time International Whisky Competition Master Distiller of the Year, Dr. Bill Lumsden crafted the blend. 

Fans can get pre-order a bottle of Beyoncé’s SirDavis whiskey for $89 via SirDavis.com

Tyrese Gibson Explains How Independent Film “1992” Defied The Odds

Photos By Stella Magloire

Tyrese Gibson and his unrelenting creative team have defied the odds with his latest film, 1992.”

AllHipHop.com and Lionsgate hosted a New York City screening where Tyrese opened up about the challenging journey of getting “1992″ made, the significance of the project, and how it was the movie nobody wanted. The audience included several notables like model Liris Cross, DJ Wiz, Leslie “Big Lez” Segar, FatBoy SSE, Safaree and others.

Tyrese’s latest film is not just another addition to his filmography, it is a abor of love. It almost did not get green lit.

According to the Fast and Furious star, “1992″ was not an easy sell in Hollywood. The film faced significant resistance from studios and streaming services, unwilling to confront the harsh realities depicted in the story.

“Nobody in Hollywood wanted to make this movie,” Tyrese stated emphatically, underscoring the difficulty of finding a home for a narrative that centers on the struggles of Black Americans in the early ’90s.

“Listen to me,” he told the audience. “I’m a movie star. I have $10 billion in box office on my name. When I attach my name to a movie, it happens. The reality of growing up Black is a harsh truth that some people at studios just don’t want to accept. So, we made the movie independently.”

The movie takes place on the day of the infamous Rodney King police brutality case and the eventual L.A. Riots that put South Central Los Angeles through the most tumultuous times in the city’s history.

The film was independently funded and produced, with Tyrese joining the project after it had already been struggling to gain traction. Tyrese told event host Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur and the audience he felt a deep connection to the story, which mirrors his own experiences growing up in South Central.

“This ain’t acting for me,” he said. “I lived this in ’92… I remember everything.”

The LA Uprising, as it has been redubbed, had a profound impact on Hip-Hop. Hip-Hop, a cultural force, chronicled these events with raw authenticity. The experience was captured through tracks like Dr. Dre’s The Day the Ni##az Took Over and Ice Cube’s We Had to Tear This Mothaf##ka Up,” immortalizing the struggle for justice and documenting the deep-seated systemic racism.

Even after the movie was finished, “1992” faced further hurdles that suggest much has not changed. However, perseverance paid off when Lionsgate eventually acquired the film. Tyrese gently pushed Lionsgate’s president Adam Fogelson— with whom he has a long-standing relationship – into having the film shown in 2,000 theaters.

“1992” is also the last offering of legendary actor Ray Liotta, part of the reason fans should see the movie on the big screen.

“Ray Liotta left us with his last piece of art. That’s like doing a movie with (Fast & Furious co-star) Paul Walker and they trying to go straight to DVD with it in the middle of a film. I’m not doing that, bro.” Tyrese said. Walker, who was friends with Tyrese, died in a car crash 11 years ago while filming “Fast & Furious 7.”

Tyrese just showed the movie in Chicago amid the Democratic National Convention festivities.

Russell Simmons Slams Attacks On His Friends After Taraji P. Henson Bali Trip Backlash 

Russell Simmons is demanding a stop to the attacks on his friends after Taraji P. Henson became the latest of his celebrity friends to be criticized for visiting him in Bali.  

The actress faced backlash over the trip due to multiple women accusing him of rape and sexual misconduct. However, Simmons, who denies the allegations, insisted he’s taken steps to clear his name and has never been investigated about the claims.  

“Still today, I have never spoken to a policeman about anything,” he stated. “I have never spoken to a judge, civil or criminal, about anything. From what I can tell Joe Biden, Bill Clinton and President Trump all have more credible claims against them that I do.” 

Russell Simmons Reiterates He’s Taken Nine Lie Detector Tests

“Again, I’ve never been charged,” Simmons said, adding that he “took nine lie detector tests, seven of which from the Chairman of the Polygraph Association,” unlike the others he mentioned. 

“Knock it off,” Simmons continued. “I love you, I just don’t want my friends attacked and I wish you all the best. But just leave my friends alone. Don’t attack my friends for visiting me.”

Elsewhere in the video, Russell Simmons rattled off a list of his contributions to uplifting the Black community.  

“But yet you stand next to Donald Trump. Knock it off,” he repeated. “I’ll be in New York next week. This idea that I’m hiding is stupid.” 

In an exclusive interview with AllHipHop in May, Simmons denied rumors he fled to Bali amid the allegations. 

“People saying that I somehow can’t come home when I’m there all the time wears on you,” Simmons said. “It wears on me after a while to keep hearing the same narrative, which is false. I’m always in L.A., I’m always in New York and Miami. And I’ve never had any reason to feel unsafe in America.” 

Lil Baby Buys Up Stores Where He Once Sold Weed 

Lil Baby has come a long way from his days hustling on the streets, so far in fact, that he plans to buy every store he used to sell weed in front of.  

In a recent video, Lil Baby showed off at least one such store undergoing renovations.  

“I’m buying every store I trapped in front of,” he declared while panning the camera to show the construction work underway. “Ain’t nothing wrong with buying chains and watches and s###, I got a lot of that stuff,” he said before adding there are other things he wants to spend his hard-earned money on. 

It appears Lil Baby wants to legitimize his weed-dealing past, turning the store into a smoke shop.

Lil Baby’s Hustler Past

Before becoming a rapper, Lil Baby sold weed with a clientele that included the QC roster, including Migos and Rich the Kid. During a 2017 interview with Rolling Stone, Lil Baby claimed he was making “real money,” by the time he was just 16 years old.  

“Needed the money, more than anything,” he says. “I knew all the drug dealers around my neighborhood. When I was like 10, 11, I was hanging out with a dude who was like 17. He was getting money to buy a car, having his own little spot. So he was a lot of my motivation, too.” 

After ditching high school, by the age of 17, Lil Baby was forking out $2,000 a month on each of his two apartments. However, he soon got in trouble with the law and went to prison before committing to a career in the music industry in 2017. 

While Lil Baby is in the process of renovating his stores, his Atlanta bachelor pad is stylish enough for an Architectural Digest feature. He recently went viral after giving the outlet a tour of his pad. 

This home is one of the things where I can see how far I came,” he explained. “It took a lot to get here.” 

Plies Reacts To Rep. Jasmine Crockett Blasting “Career Criminal” Donald Trump At DNC  

Plies was enthralled by Texas Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s rousing address at the Democratic National Convention as she delivered a scathing attack on Donald Trump.   

Like many tuning into the first night of the DNC in Chicago, Plies was impressed by Jasmine Crockett’s compelling address, writing on Twitter (X), “A Star Is Born In Jasmine Crockett!”

Kamala Harris also wowed Plies after surprising delegates by making an appearance on the first night.  

Legendary basketball coach Steve Kerr got a shout-out from Plies for his DNC address. Kerr praised Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz “coach to coach” before paying tribute to Kamala Harris and her running mate.  

During his speech, Kerr channeled NBA star Steph Curry, telling delegates in November, “We can tell Donald Trump ‘night night’.” 

During her speech, Crockett, a former public defender and defense attorney, highlighted the stark contrast between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. She pointed to their different backgrounds before slamming “career criminal” Trump. 

“She became a career prosecutor,” she said of Harris before turning to Trump. “While he became a career criminal, with 34 felonies, two impeachments, and one p### star to prove it. Kamala Harris has a résumé. Donald Trump has a rap sheet.” 

Crockett also gave a nod to her viral “bleach blonde, bad built, butch body” retort to Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene.   

“The question before us is, will a vindictive, vile villain violate voters’ vision for a better American or not?” Crockett asked as the crowd burst into laughter. “I hear alliteration is back in style.”

Flavor Flav Rolls Out Red Carpet For U.S. Women’s Water Polo Team In Las Vegas 

Flavor Flav is continuing his commitment to the U.S. Women’s Water Polo Team, treating the athletes to a Las Vegas getaway. 

Over the weekend, the Public Enemy member flew the team out to Sin City. Flav and the ladies had a blast staying at Conrad Las Vegas at Resorts World, dining at a swanky restaurant and taking in Carrie Underwood’s residency.  

Flavor Flav shared a video of the team partying in Vegas while paying tribute to the athletes. 

“So proud of all these women,” he captioned the video. “Look at all the support and attention brought to this sport and women’s athletics. We changing the game and that is something BIG to celebrate.” 

After previously agreeing to sponsor the team for five years, he reaffirmed his commitment.  

“Most of all thankx to USAWP and all the players for welcoming me on the team and accepting my sponsorship,” Flav added. “Paris was a special experience of my life and we just getting started,!! Thankx to Sam and Jared for hooking it up,!!” 

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A post shared by Flavor Flav ⏰ (@flavorflavofficial)

Meanwhile, Flavor Flav’s mission to help underprivileged athletes continues. 

He’s helping make dreams come true for Nick Mayhugh, a sprinter due to compete at the Paralympics this year. Flav supported the three-time Paralympic Gold-winning athlete’s GoFundMe campaign to bring his parents to the Games.  

Flav also revealed he “helped fully fund” 35 GoFundMe campaigns for Olympians and Paralympians. 

Cardi B Shows Off Baby Bump Amid Plans For Revenge Body Snap Back 

Cardi B shared a hilarious video making fun of her unborn baby’s appetite while showing off her blossoming baby bump. 

Earlier this month, the Grammy Award-winning rapper revealed her baby has a ravenous appetite and kicks uncontrollably until she feeds it, whether mom is hungry or not.    

On Monday (August 19), Cardi B unveiled her growing baby bump in a TikTok, reacting to her hungry little one. “Always want a little snack,” she captioned the post. 

@iamcardib

Always want a little snack

♬ Can jasper have a snek – JasperTheDoll✅

Cardi B recently revealed that while she isn’t concerned about gaining pregnancy weight, she is worried about her butt dropping as she can’t work out due to a pelvic injury. 

“I was doing so good, like, so good,” she said of her routine before the freak accident. “Exercising, f###### outfits were being put together, I had so much energy. Now I be in pain like a muthafucka. I can’t f###### wear heels I can f###### stand up, I can’t do s###.”  

She also explained she wanted a pregnancy waist trainer to maintain her shapely behind. 

While Cardi B has never cared about snapping back to her pre-pregnancy physique, she plans a revenge body this time. She called out body shamers criticizing her weight gain before she announced her pregnancy.  

“Y’all was making fun of me thinking that I was getting extra surgeries,” she snapped. “All along, I just gained 15lbs cuz I’m a pregnant hoe. 

Cardi B said her “naturally skin” frame means she’ll rapidly lose weight regardless. However, she’s working on getting “snatched” immediately. 

“The time as soon as I give birth I’m going to work out,” she said before turning the tables on the body shamers. “I remember how y’all made me feel in May, and y’all hurt my feelings,” she added. “Snap back is gonna be on a thousand.” 

Ice Spice Shuts Down Ozempic Rumors, Explains Weight Loss 

Ice Spice has had enough of the rumors that Ozempic is responsible for her new look after facing criticism for losing weight. 

Fans have scrutinized the “Munch” hitmaker’s body, pointing out she’s lost weight recently. Many accused her of taking the popular diabetes drug Ozempic to shed the pounds.  

However, Ice Spice is tired of the discussion around her physique and decided to set the record straight about Ozempic. On Monday evening (August 19), Ice Spice hopped on Twitter (X) Spaces to set the record straight. 

“I actually came on here to talk about that real quick,” she began. “Cuz I was like, b####, I wish y’all never learned the word Ozempic. That’s one thing I wish. Oh my God! Like what even is Ozempic? What the f### is that? Genuinely, what is that?” 

Ice Spice then revealed she’s been working out and eating healthily amid her grueling Y2K World Tour schedule. 

“You lazy ass b###### never heard of a gym?” she questioned. “It’s called eating healthy. It’s called being on tour. Like what the hell. Maybe if I was sitting at home all day it’d be easier to stay big.” 

Nonetheless, Ice Spice admitted that she was feeling under the weather and in need of “a little tea break” after recently smoking a giant blunt

“But I am a little sick, I’m not gone to lie. Can you hear it?” she asked. “Yeah that big ass blunt did my throat foul.” 

Hillary Clinton Rips Donald Trump Amid “Lock Him Up” Chants During DNC 

Hillary Clinton delivered a powerful speech in support of Kamala Harris at the Democratic National Convention on Monday (August 19), praising the vice president and slamming Donald Trump. 

Clinton addressed her former political rival and his attacks on Harris.  

“It is no surprise that he is lying about Kamala’s record, he is mocking her name and her laugh,” she said. “Sounds familiar? But we have him on the run now.” 

She also drew a stark contrast between Trump’s record as a convicted felon and Harris’s as a former prosecutor. 

“As a prosecutor, Kamala locked up murders and drug traffickers,” she stated. “Donald Trump fell asleep at his own trial.” The crowd erupted into chants of “Lock him up! Lock him up,” a throwback to Trump supporters taunting Hillary Clinton during the 2016 Presidential campaign.  

Kamala Harris made a surprise appearance on the first night of the DNC, emerging to Beyoncé’s “Freedom.” 

New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez also delivered a rousing speech in Chicago. She bashed Trump, branding him a “two-bit union buster” who would “sell this country for a dollar.” 

Ocasio-Cortez also addressed the war in Gaza, assuring that Kamala Harris “is working tirelessly to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and bringing hostages home.” 

Meanwhile, Texas Rep. Jasmine Crockett slammed “career criminal” Donald Trump in a moving speech. She also contrasted his record with Harris’s.

“One candidate worked at McDonald’s, while she was in college at an HBCU,” Crockett said. “The other was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, and helped his daddy in the family business: Housing discrimination.

“She became a career prosecutor, while he became a career criminal, with 34 felonies, two impeachments and one p### star to prove it. Kamala Harris has a résumé. Donald Trump has a rap sheet.”  

Crockett also shared how “the most powerful woman in the world wiped my tears and listened,” shortly after she was elected to Congress. 

Elsewhere during her speech, Crockett injected some humor with a nod to her viral “bleach blonde, bad built, butch body” retort to Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene. 

“The question before us is, will a vindictive, vile villain violate voters’ vision for a better American or not?” Crockett asked as the crowd burst into laughter. “I hear alliteration is back in style.”