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Hip-Hop Icons Rakim, Big Daddy Kane & MC Lyte Rock Philly’s “Joy To The Polls” Voter Event

By: Chuck Creekmur (@ChuckCreekmur)Category: Exclusives

Philadelphia’s Overbrook Plaza is normally a parking lot or a shopping center, but it turned into an electric voting experience on Saturday (October 19). Joy To The Polls brought together an incredible blend of music, culture and community for a powerful cause: voter registration.

Hosted in the heart of Philly, the event delivered not just a massive turnout for voter registration but also a fun experience for attendees. The event offered food trucks with free meals, giveaways and even breakers. The atmosphere was pure celebration with a cause and folks could even vote early on the premises.

But the highlights? West Philly’s own DJ Jazzy Jeff took to the stage and rocked the crowd with an epic live set. After Jeff’s performance, Hip-Hop’s Golden Era celebration continued with MC Lyte, Rakim and Big Daddy Kane. Each of these legends delivered medleys of their greatest hits and reminded the audience about the importance of exercising their right to vote. Other notables present included DJ Lady B, Charlie Mack and the Major of Philadelphia, the honorable Cherelle Parker.

After the performances, the AllHipHop team headed backstage to capture some video and interview footage with these iconic figures. We heard stories and shared our appreciation for these trailblazers of Hip-Hop. Seeing goats like MC Lyte, Big Daddy Kane, Rakim and DJ Jazzy Jeff rock was nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Seeing them together, in their element, trading praise and showing love for one another, was a moment that hit deep for anyone who came up during the Golden Era. And then there were others like Charlie Mack and DJ Lady B, who are both luminaries in their own right.

Kane and Ra talked about the gravity of the moment and made sure that the importance was not missed amid all the fun.

Big Daddy Kane: Every one of y’all needs to understand just how important it is to make your voice heard. You know what I’m saying? Be sure to make your voice heard. Don’t wait until December to start complaining about what went wrong. Use the power you have right now to help get it right, you understand?

I’m not telling you who to vote for… well, yes I am, but I’m not. What I’m really telling you is to make sure that you vote. Make your voice heard, you know what I’m saying? And anything that you demand or want to see from your candidate, stay thorough with it. Stay on top of them to make sure they deliver. You understand?

Rakim: There’s a very good reason, man. I would have done this for free, for real. It’s important, you know what I mean? I was just telling the crowd—this is important because sometimes, you’ve got to think. You can’t put life on hold, even on stage. We’ve got to put things in perspective. We’re here to take care of our families and provide for them. Let’s not get it twisted. You can’t make decisions just because someone promises you a job you’re not going to get. Make sure you’re voting with what really matters in mind.

You already know what it is. We’re here trying to bring the people out, make it real easy for them. Voting places are set up right here on the premises. Everybody can come, enjoy themselves, listen to some music, and take part in something important at the same time. Harris.

Below are some images from the day.

Joy To The Polls is a “non-partisan Get Out The Vote initiative to energize community and mobilize voters to the polls, with music and culture leading the way.”

Photos By Ginny Suss

Man Shot On Lil Baby Video Shoot Files $600K Lawsuit

By: Nolan StrongCategory: News

A man shot during a Lil Baby music video shoot in Atlanta is suing several companies involved in the production, seeking over $600,000 in damages for alleged negligence.

Kevin Mares was working on the music video for the Grammy-winning rapper when two unidentified individuals opened fire near the set on May 14, 2024

Mares was hit in the neck during the incident, which occurred at a shopping plaza on Verbena Street in Atlanta.

The lawsuit claims Shotclock, LLC, the production company overseeing the shoot, and Quality Control Music, LLC, Lil Baby’s management company, failed to provide adequate security.

.It also targets two security firms hired for the event, Cannon Executive Protection Agency, LLC, and Tactical Elite Protection Services, LLC, for allegedly subcontracting security services without proper approval and failing to provide adequately trained personnel.

The complaint states that the defendants were responsible for ensuring the safety of everyone involved in the production, including Mares, but failed to do so.

The filing argues that the companies “negligently failed to exercise reasonable care in the performance, training, and staffing of the specific security services required for an international recording artist production” and that their actions led to Mares’ “severe and permanent injuries.”

Peter A. Law, the attorney representing Mares, claimed that the defendants had prior knowledge of the dangers in the area, which had a history of violent crime.

“Defendants knew or should have known that a significant number of violent crimes were committed in the surrounding area,” the lawsuit reads, adding that security personnel failed to prevent loiterers and trespassers from accessing the site.

Mares is seeking compensation for his medical expenses, which are expected to exceed $680,000 for damages, including pain and suffering lost earnings and diminished ability to work.

The lawsuit also seeks punitive damages, alleging that the defendants’ actions showed “a conscious indifference to consequences.”

Lil Baby is not named in the lawsuit.

Big Meech Photographed For First Time Since Federal Prison Release

By: Kyle EusticeCategory: News

The first photo of Big Meech since his release from federal prison has hit the web. On Sunday (October 20), a snap of the Black Mafia Family co-founder started making the rounds, showing him dressed in black with his arm around another person.

Big Meech was recently transferred from FCI Coleman Low to a community confinement center overseen by Miami Residential Reentry Management Office, where the photo was taken.

Meech was sentenced to 30 years in prison in 2008 after being convicted on several counts of criminal conspiracy and money laundering for his involvement in the BMF crime ring.

A judge released him on October 15, roughly three years early, but he must serve the remainder of his sentence at the halfway house. His projected release date is January 27, 2026. He’ll be placed on supervised release once his time is served there.

Big Meech, born Demetrius Edward Flenory in June 1968, co-founded BMF in Detroit, Michigan, but it had operations across the United States. Along with his brother, Terry Flenory (also known as “Southwest T”), Big Meech started the BMF in the late 1980s, primarily distributing cocaine. By the early 2000s, the organization was reportedly handling large volumes of drugs and earning hundreds of millions of dollars in illicit profits.

Big Meech became a prominent figure in the Hip-Hop world due to his connections with various artists, including T.I. and Jeezy, and the BMF name was often referenced in rap music. He was known for living a flashy lifestyle, throwing extravagant parties and mingling with high-profile celebrities.

In 2005, federal authorities dismantled BMF, and Big Meech, along with his brother and many others, were arrested. The BMF legacy was the inspiration behind 50 Cent’s popular TV series on STARZ, BMF. Big Meech has expressed interest in using his platform to mentor young people about the consequences of the lifestyle he once lived.

Cardi B Calls For Peace Amid Ongoing Divorce With Offset

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

Cardi B is calling for peace as she seeks to mend her relationship with rapper Offset for the sake of their children.

This is following turbulent weeks when the two exchange sharp words across social media.

The Grammy Award-winning artist addressed the situation during a conversation on X Spaces, stressing that her primary goal is a conflict-free co-parenting relationship.

“I don’t want to have beef with anybody that I love,” Cardi said during the discussion. “All the divorce things that happen, I want peace and I want friendship. I just want, like, a healthy co-parenting relationship.”

Cardi filed for divorce from Offset in July for the second time since their marriage began in 2017.

Despite trading accusations, including Offset suggesting that Cardi may have been unfaithful while she was pregnant, the rapper is now focused on maintaining a civil relationship for their children’s well-being.

The couple shares three kids: Kulture, 6, Wave, 3, and their youngest daughter, born in September.

During the discussion, Cardi opened up about how she wishes to emulate the amicable dynamic her own parents developed after their separation.

“I want to be like my mom and my dad,” Cardi explained, noting that while the two no longer interact as a couple, they successfully prioritized her and her sister’s needs. “They don’t f**k with each other, they just there for me and my sister.”

Cardi also reflected on her newly single status at 31.

While she admitted she enjoyed her independence, she recognized the need for balance.

“I’ve been having fun,” she said. “But I feel like me being single and me having fun, I have to stop it because I don’t want it to get in the way of my work.”

Cardi emphasized that her career remains a top priority and that she’s wary of distractions preventing her from staying focused.

“I’m paranoid to give people my time,” she added.

Taraji P. Henson Reveals Bold New Approach To Choosing Characters

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: News

Taraji P. Henson is now setting her sights on projects that push her boundaries as an actress.

At a point in her career where she can be selective, Henson, 54, has focused on choosing roles that challenge her, steering clear of characters she feels she’s already mastered.

She told U.S. Glamour, “I’ve played so many characters that now I get sent scripts and I think, ‘I’ve done this already.’ I need something that makes me uncomfortable or scared because that means it’s something I’m going to have to overcome.”

For Henson, fear has become a measuring stick for growth. “If I get a script and that s**t don’t scare me, I shouldn’t do it. It’s someone else’s blessing.”

The “Empire” star has often gravitated toward complex characters, but lately, those that spark genuine fear or discomfort seem to fuel her desire to transform onscreen.

“That’s what excites me,” she added. “Stuff that scares the s**t out of me.”

Taraji P. Henson, who has recently appeared in the TV show “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist,” has several upcoming projects on her slate, including the Tyler Perry film “Straw” and a gripping drama titled “Time Alone.”

These roles offer the kind of challenges she’s seeking, providing fresh opportunities for personal and artistic growth.

Yet, while Henson remains passionate about her craft, she also looks ahead to a life not consumed by acting.

“I’m ready to travel and stay on a yacht and tap in when something’s good,” Henson stated. “I see myself traveling more for fun. Not for work, not to make money, but just to enjoy the fruits of my hard work.”

Kamala Harris One-Up’s Trick Trick & Trump With Lizzo & Usher

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

Former President Donald Trump may have flexed when he brought out Detroit rapper Trick Trick at his campaign rally in Detroit, but Kamala Harris may have one-upped him with Usher and Lizzo.

The two superstars lent their voices and star power to a rally supporting Vice President Kamala Harris in Detroit on Saturday (October 19).

Lizzo, a Detroit native, spoke passionately about the importance of political engagement and supporting leaders like Kamala Harris.

“I’m proud to say that I voted, I voted early and I voted for Kamala Harris. They say voting is not a love letter; it is a chess move,” Lizzo said. “There’s a lot of people who feel like their vote doesn’t matter, but I say to that, if your vote didn’t matter, voter suppression would not exist.”

The rally comes as part of a broader effort by the Democratic Party to galvanize voters and secure votes for Kamala Harris ahead of the upcoming election cycle.

The support from cultural icons like Usher and Lizzo is seen as a way to connect with younger, more diverse audiences.

Meanwhile, Usher popped up on the stage at a Harris-Walz rally in his hometown of Atlanta, where he emphasized the importance of unity and perseverance during politically challenging times.

“This is a momentous opportunity for all of us,” Usher said. “We have an opportunity to choose a new generation of leadership for our country. I am supporting Vice President Harris because she fights for everyone’s rights – for freedom.”

Saturday’s rallies were designed to boost enthusiasm among voters in the city, which boasts a large African American population and played a pivotal role in the 2020 election.

Xzibit & Conor McGregor’s Collab Knock Outs Their Fans

By: Houston WilliamsCategory: Music

Xzibit is back with, “Play This At My Funeral,” the lead single from his upcoming album King Maker. Set to drop early next year, this highly anticipated project has fans buzzing about his return. But this comeback has an extra twist—Xzibit is now backed by MMA icon Conor McGregor’s new label, Greenback Records. McGregor, who launched the label in July, has already signed Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, and Xzibit on board, the momentum is undeniable.

In “Play This At My Funeral,” Xzibit wastes no time proving he’s still a force to be reckoned with. The gritty track reflects on his long journey since emerging in the late 1990s, showcasing his sharp, battle-hardened lyricism. His dope delivery and fire bars make it clear—Xzibit is back with a purpose.

Mariah Carey Planning To Reveal Grunge Alter Ego With Album

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: News

Mariah Carey, known to many as the voice behind iconic pop ballads, is considering reviving an entirely different side of her musical persona.

The singer revealed she’s open to releasing Someone’s Ugly Daughter, a grunge album she recorded under the alias “Chick” nearly three decades ago.

The project, punctuated by alternative rock influences, was conceived in parallel with her 1995 Daydream album but largely kept under wraps due to concerns from label executives about how it might affect her mainstream image.

During her appearance on the Las Culturistas podcast, Carey addressed fan inquiries about the long-lost album.

“I know, right?” she laughed when co-host Matt Rogers asked for an update. “I’m so mad that I haven’t done that yet… but who do I drop it with?”

Rogers and co-host Bowen Yang humorously suggested releasing it independently, offering, “We could start our label or post it on Garage Band like a grungy thing.”

Carey responded enthusiastically, calling the album “a good one” and hinting that she could make the project a reality.

Not only did Mariah Carey express her affection for the record, but she also reminisced about its creation.

“You will hear it,” she promised, revealing she initially took the lead vocals under the pseudonym “D. Sue” before label pressures forced her to step back to a background vocal role.

She recalled the experience fondly, calling it a much-needed creative escape amid the heavily controlled environment of her career.

“I had no freedom during that time. That was my freedom.”

During a 2022 interview with Rolling Stone Music Now, Mariah Carey offered more insight, explaining that some of her original vocal recordings were shelved but still needed to be recovered.

“Most people, I’d rather they don’t even know about it until we figure out exactly what happens with those vocals,” she said, noting how driving through upstate New York while blasting the album with her assistant was an emotional outlet. “It was my release. It was fun.”

Though physical versions of Someone’s Ugly Daughter are still available to collectors, streaming services have yet to offer the album.

Still, Carey’s recent comments signal that fans may only have to wait a little longer.

Denzel Washington & Snoop Dogg To Collaborate On Death Row Founder Harry-O’s Movies

By: Houston WilliamsCategory: News

Michael “Harry-O” Harris, co-founder of the legendary Death Row Records, is in talks with none other than Denzel Washington to bring his life story to life in Hollywood.

During a recent conversation with AllHipHop, Harry-O shared that his journey from the streets to the cell and back will be helmed by his old friend Denzel. And, with Snoop and Death Row films, he’d be working on “the most comprehensive documentaries” ever created about Death Row Records.

“I’ve been working on my story for a long time,” he said, stressing he wanted it to be a “cautionary tale.”

Also Read: Death Row Records Co-founder Harry-O Explains Why He’s Community First.

He confirmed Denzel’s involvement in the project, citing the two share a unique history. Harry-O worked with Denzel early on, giving him a start on Broadway. That opportunity eventually led to his many collaborations with Spike Lee, who used to attended the play.

“Denzel’s always been a friend to me, like a brother. It’s not about business, it’s about friendship and faith,” Harry-O said.

Harry-O also hinted at the possibility of these projects becoming a multi-part series to fully capture the full breadth of his experiences.

“We just trying to figure out how we want to deliver it to the world. But that story is coming and I’ve just been blessed,” he explained. “I thank God for that to have people that feel that my story should be told. And we just trying to figure out should it be a series or which way it’s going to be because we got some pearls to drop.”

Rising Swedish Streamer Marlon LuGa Breaks Down His Favorites in Hip Hop Right Now

By: Brxton LeeCategory: Music News

Marlon LuGa has quickly emerged as a global sensation in the streaming world. The 22-year-old Swede, famous for his engaging IRL streams, has amassed nearly two million followers across his social platforms. Whether he’s taking fans on hilarious daily adventures or diving into the latest gaming and music trends, Marlon’s down-to-earth vibe and sharp sense of humor keep his audience coming back for more. But beyond the screen, there’s another passion that drives Marlon’s creativity—music. For this rising star, music is more than just background noise; it’s a source of inspiration that fuels his daily grind.

We caught up with Marlon to get a glimpse of what he’s been listening to lately, and he shared some of his favorite tracks, artists, and albums that have been on repeat. Here’s what the Swedish streamer had to say:

Favorite Songs Right Now:

  1. “Today I Did Good” – Gunna
    “This track just has that laid-back vibe that I love. It’s all about feeling good about your wins, even the small ones, and that’s something I try to focus on every day.”
  2. “Free Mind” – Tems
    “I’m a big fan of Tems. Her voice is so smooth, and this song has this calm, reflective energy that helps me wind down after a long stream. It’s like therapy.”
  3. “Lay Up” – Future
    “Future is a legend to me. ‘Lay Up’ is one of those tracks that you just want to blast with your friends when you’re feeling on top of the world. It’s got that energy that hypes me up.”
  4. “No Chill” – PARTYNEXTDOOR
    “PARTYNEXTDOOR always knows how to create a mood. ‘No Chill’ is exactly that—there’s no chill when this song is on. It’s just pure vibes.”
  5. “No Love” – NBA YoungBoy
    “YoungBoy’s music hits different. It’s raw, and it’s real. ‘No Love’ speaks to that feeling of pushing forward, no matter what people say or do around you. That’s something I connect with a lot.”

Q-Tip Chokes Up Remembering Phife Dawg As Tribe Is Inducted Into Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame

By: Kyle EusticeCategory: News

Dave Chappelle inducted A Tribe Called Quest into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame on Saturday (October 19) at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland.

After commending Tribe on 1991’s album Low End Theory, Chappelle looked back on March 22, 2016, the night Phife Dawg passed away. He recalled he had tickets to a Prince concert but immediately ditched his plans to head to The Apollo for an impromptu memorial.

Along with Phife’s fellow Tribe members, several of their fellow Native Tongues headed to Q-Tip’s house, where they listened to old songs, watched old movies and did their best to share some laughs. Finally, Q-Tip played the last song Phife was on, which happened to be “Thank You For Service…We Got it From Here.”

“What you’ve done for our culture changed our lives,” Chappelle said. “But what you did for me changed my life. You invited me on to Saturday Night Live and it brought me back to television after 12 years in the cold.”

 










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When it was time for A Tribe Called Quest to accept the award, Jarobi grabbed the mic and reflected on his journey with Tribe. Q-Tip, standing there stoically, then stepped up to podium. As he thanked his family, he brought up Phife and tears quickly flooded his eyes.

“Rest in peace to our brother Phife Dawg,” he said. “I wish you were here.”

Phife Dawg’s father, Walt Taylor, finished up the speeches, reminding the crowd “Phife is all about family. We are here to support A Tribe Called Quest and to support Phife Dawg.” He sewed up his commentary with, “Cher, I got you babe.”

The Tribe segment concluded with an explosive performance boasting appearances by Queen Latifah, who performed “Can I Kick It?,” Pos and Black Thought joining her for “Check the Rime,” Common on “Bonita Applebum” and Busta Rhymes on, of course, “Scenario,” which introduced Bus-A-Bus to the rest of the world.

In fact, Busta Rhymes noted at the end of the performance, “Y’all gave birth to me, Tribe!” Watch a clip above.

A$AP Rocky Says His Kids Will Learn Both Humility & Confidence

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: News

A$AP Rocky says he’s carrying forward “crazy” lessons from his father on breaking societal norms as he navigates fatherhood with his partner, Rihanna.

Looking back at the impact of his upbringing, the Harlem rapper opened up about how his father, Adrian Mayers, and older brother, Ricky, influenced his outlook on life and success, ultimately teaching him to reject rigid boundaries.

“I don’t know if you call ‘the rules’ the law, but they broke the law a bunch of times,” the rapper said in an interview with W Magazine.

The emphasis on personal freedom and self-reliance became key cornerstones of his father’s philosophy, which Rocky said shaped how he approached his career and parenting.

Adrian, who died in 2012, instilled early values of “trust” in Rocky, yet his message carried unconventional methods.

A$AP Rocky described the approach as “crazy” but clarified it was precisely what he plans to bring into his experience raising his two young boys.

Rocky shares two children with Rihanna—2-year-old RZA and 14-month-old Riot—both of whom he aims to raise with a delicate balance.

“I want to teach them a little bit of humility… and cockiness when it’s time. Yin and yang,” he said.

The idea of balance resonates deeply with Rocky, who, after losing both his father and brother relatively early in life, now faces parenting from a perspective of loss and renewal.

“Once you’re a parent, you just embody that, no matter what,” he shared. “I’m so happy that I at least still got one parent,” he said, referring to the presence of both his and Rihanna’s surviving parents, whom he credits for their ongoing support.

Timbaland Compares Missy Elliott Banger To Metro Boomin-Produced Migos “Classic” Hit

By: Devon JeffersonCategory: News

Timbaland believes Metro Boomin produced a classic for the Migos that’s close to, if not on the same level, as one of the anthems he once produced for Missy Elliott.

In a recent interview with Rolling Stone, legendary producer Timbaland spoke with Metro Boomin about multiple topics, such as the creative process and the difference between creating hit songs and crafting timeless classics. Timbaland took the opportunity to praise Metro’s work on the Migos’ hit, “Bad & Boujee,” calling it a classic. He used the song to support his theory emphasizing the distinction between a song that simply tops the charts and one that withstands the test of time.

“Didn’t you do ‘Bad And Boujee'” Timbaland questioned, to which Metro answered, “Yeah.”

“That’s a classic. You do know that, right?” Timbaland said before adding, “It is a difference between hits and classics.”

He continued, using examples from his own career and experiences competing with other producers. Reflecting on how even though some of his own tracks reached number one, that chart success doesn’t necessarily define a song’s long-term impact.

“Even though the top 100 is a great thing, classics are still just different,” he said.

Metro Boomin chimed in, agreeing with Timbaland’s sentiment.

“It might be a classic that might’ve peaked at number 23 or something,” Metro said, highlighting that some songs might not achieve immediate commercial success but still become legendary.

Timbaland then circled back to Metro’s catalog, specifically highlighting “Bad & Boujee” as an example of a track that transcends its chart position.

“Play it today,” he urged. “People go crazy. I played it out here last night.”

Timbaland expressed his admiration for the song’s staying power, comparing it to his own experience with Missy Elliott’s “Work It,” another track he identified as a classic early on.

“So I go through you like your catalog, I’m like, ‘okay, how many classes you got?'” Timbaland said to Metro. “You got a lot of hits. What’s the classic? That ‘Bad and Boujee’ is it. Because I heard it again, it’s the same thing. When I did ‘Work it,’ I knew that I said this song. I played that last night too on everything and they went crazy. As soon as the beat dropped, I said ‘this a classic.’ I knew what a classic that one. I said, this going to be a classic.”

“Bad & Boujee,” released in 2016 by Migos and featuring Lil Uzi Vert, became an instant cultural phenomenon, reaching the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. The song not only dominated the airwaves but also amassed over a billion streams on Spotify and earned a quadruple platinum certification from the RIAA.

Check out the exchange above.

LL COOL J On Lil Wayne Super Bowl Snub: “Let Kendrick Get That”

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

LL Cool J wants Lil Wayne and the world to know: Let Kendrick Lamar enjoy his moment.

The Hip-Hop icon addressed the controversy swirling around Lil Wayne being passed over for Super Bowl LIX’s halftime show in New Orleans during an honest discussion with host Fat Joe on the latest episode of Fat Joe Talks.

LL Cool J clarified that while Lil Wayne is a top-tier talent, timing matters.

“Lil Wayne is one of the most talented dudes on the planet. Period. He’s one of our great artists,” LL said, emphasizing the rapper’s influence. “He’ll have his day. Let Kendrick get that. Let’s keep it moving.”

The Super Bowl halftime show, an event rife with high expectations, has often been a point of contention among artists and fans.

This year, the spotlight lands on Grammy-winning rapper Kendrick Lamar, who’ll take the stage for the 2024 championship game.

The announcement made some question why veteran rapper Lil Wayne had yet to secure his place on the iconic stage – especially in his hometown.

Even Lil Wayne expressed disappointment with the decision.

“I blame myself for not being mentally prepared for a letdown and for just automatically mentally putting myself in that position; like somebody told me that was my position,” Wayne said. “But I thought there was nothing better than that. That stage and that platform in my city. So that hurt. It hurt a whole lot,” Lil Wayne said.

For LL Cool J, the timing wasn’t personal and was more about understanding the cycles of opportunity within the industry.

“Look, your time will come,” LL added as he reflected on Lil Wayne’s accomplishments. “You’ll have your time. You can’t let that break you. And the only reason it makes me laugh is because I know how blessed he is. I know how successful he is. So he doesn’t need to worry about that moment. That’s just a moment bro. It’s just one moment. It happens.”

He reassured that Lil Wayne’s influence and legacy are solid despite the perceived snub.

Drawing from his own experiences, LL Cool J recalled how long it took him to receive accolades, including his induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

“It took what felt like 999,000 times before I got in,” LL joked, explaining that he remained unfazed throughout the process. “These are champagne problems. There’s guys who can’t get their demo listened to. So it’s like, I think we get a little bit, sometimes unintentionally, we get a little bit spoiled.”

The interview is part of Fat Joe’s STARZ weekly series, “Fat Joe Talks,” featuring candid and in-depth discussions.

Metro Boomin Reveals “Pickiest Artist” He’s Ever Worked With

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Metro Boomin called 21 Savage his pickiest collaborator in a conversation with fellow producer Timbaland for Rolling Stone. Metro mentioned how he and 21 Savage butt heads when Timbaland inquired about asking artists to redo their vocals.

“Me and [21] Savage get into that sometimes,” Metro said. “It’s the same thing you said with you and Missy [Elliott]: He’s the pickiest artist I’ve ever worked with, with the beats. I’ll play this man 35 or 40 beats before he wants to get in the booth. And it can be draining: He’ll go, ‘Next one, next one, next one, next one.’ But in return, I’m like, ‘OK, you’ve gotta overly bring it on this one. I’m not taking any OK s###, n####.’”

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Metro still named 21 Savage as his favorite artist to work with despite their disagreements in the studio.

“He’s definitely my favorite to work with,” Metro told Timbaland. “We’ll get on each other’s nerves, go back and forth all the time. But at the end of the day, we make each other better. If I play him 20 beats and he’s not really feeling them, I’m going home and cooking up. You need that.”

Timbaland peppered Metro with questions to learn about the younger producer’s creative process. Metro reflected on how developing a reputation that allows him to make bolder choices as a producer.

“After so many years, I feel that with a lot of trial and error and so many times it has worked, I think there’s a level of trust developed,” he said. “If I go to one of my frequent collaborators and go, ‘Let’s try this,’ and it’s way outside of what they’ve done, it’s not as much of a fight, because I’ve told them crazy s### before and it’s worked.”

Check out Metro and Timbaland’s entire chat below.

Lizzo Declares Only “God” Can Cancel Her

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: News

Lizzo has spoken out about being “canceled” after fans turned on her following several accusations.

The 36-year-old singer and actress went from body-positive pin-up to public pariah in 2023 when former backing dancers accused her of abuse.

Reflecting on her complex and changing relationship with the public, the “Truth Hurts” star said during a panel discussion with Forbes. “I’ve been canceled for everything at this point.

“Only God can cancel me now. I think that I talk about the things that are important to me, and I talk about the things that I can bring a difference to, and I think those are my boundaries now with the public.”

Lizzo was accused of sexual, religious, and racial harassment, disability discrimination, assault, false imprisonment, creating a hostile work environment, and fat shaming by a trio of backing dancers in August last year.

The star vehemently denied the allegations against her, saying in a statement shared via social media at the time, “Usually I choose not to respond to false allegations but these are as unbelievable as they sound and too outrageous to not be addressed.

“These sensationalized stories are coming from former employees who have already publicly admitted that they were told their behavior on tour was inappropriate and unprofessional.”

In February of this year, a Los Angeles court allowed the claims against Lizzo to move forward; however, the case is on hold as the singer has lodged an appeal.

Jvn Releases Highly Anticipated EP In Due Time, Reviving Traditional Hip-Hop

By: Brxton LeeCategory: Music News

Emerging hip-hop artist Jvn (@aapjvn), born Javion, is making waves with the release of his latest EP, In Due Time, available now on all streaming platforms. The EP marks a pivotal chapter in Jvn’s career, as he seeks to bring traditional hip-hop back to the forefront while solidifying his place in the rap game.

In Due Time showcases Jvn’s lyrical prowess and deep connection to the foundations of hip-hop. The project draws inspiration from his personal experiences and current creative mindset. “I feel like the music I was making and the space I’m in right now shaped the theme of this release,” Jvn explains. Confident in his ability, he adds, “I can rap my a** off, and I’m going for it when it comes to putting myself in the same space as the greats now and before me.”

The EP stays true to traditional hip-hop, a genre Jvn wholeheartedly embraces. With hard-hitting bars and a raw delivery, Jvn aims to capture the essence of the legends who came before him while keeping his sound fresh for today’s audience. One standout track, “B2B,” serves as the perfect introduction for new listeners, reflecting Jvn’s dedication to both lyrical depth and authentic storytelling.

Jvn’s music is influenced by some of the most iconic names in hip-hop, including Meek Mill, Jay-Z, 50 Cent, T.I., Nas, and Drake. Their impact is evident in his lyrical approach, as he combines timeless elements of hip-hop with modern flair, offering a balanced blend of classic and contemporary.

In addition to the release of In Due Time, Jvn is celebrating a major career milestone—performing as the only local artist selected for a sold-out arena show with Lil Uzi Vert and G Herbo at the Toyota Pavilion Center. This accomplishment highlights Jvn’s growing presence in the industry and serves as a stepping stone toward larger opportunities. With more new music on the way, Jvn hopes to join a major artist on tour, continuing to expand his reach and share his music with a wider audience.

As Jvn continues to hone his craft and build his name, In Due Time stands as a testament to his talent and determination to bring traditional hip-hop back into the spotlight. Follow Jvn on Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date on his journey and future releases.

Check out ‘In Due Time’ below.

Blueprint’s “Word Is Blog” Book Celebrates Eyedea Amid 14th Anniversary Of His Death

By: Kyle EusticeCategory: Exclusives

Blueprint has written a new book called Word is Blog: Volume One, 2010-2011, a collection of his blog posts that includes musings on his friendship with the late Rhymesayers MC Eyedea.

The beloved wordsmith died in 2010 at the age of 28 after suffering a drug overdose. According to the Ramsey County Medical Examiner’s Office, he succumbed to respiratory depression caused by opiate derivatives, although the specific drug was never disclosed to the public.

Eyedea’s death hit the underground Hip-Hop community hard and even 14 years later, his absence can still be felt. On Wednesday (October 16), the anniversary of Eyedea’s passing, social media blew up with tributes. Rhymesayers co-founder Sean “Slug” Daley wrote simply, “miss u mikey,” while his longtime collaborator and friend DJ Abilities wrote, “R.EYE.P.”

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Blueprint dedicates a portion of Word is Blog to remembering Eyedea. He shared a snippet of it in a recent Instagram post. It read: “During this time, we would see each other in other Midwest cities and always kick it. That’s when Eyedea and I realized we had the same kind of trouble-making instinct. It wasn’t trouble-making in terms of being destructive or disrespecting people, or even drinking or doing drugs, because neither of us did any of that at the time. Our thing was battling. We loved to find whoever thought they were the best and serve those fools. No matter what city we were in, before or after we played, we were probably in the biggest freestyle cipher we could find, letting cats know what it was.

“Later that year we were all at the Rocksteady anniversary in New York. Greenhouse & Illogic were in town doing some recording with our friends The Atoms Family. I didn’t even know Eyedea was there at first (this was before having a cell phone was normal), but once I saw him at the jam we were out!”

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Blueprint dives into plenty of other topics, including his own journey to sobriety.

“The inspiration behind this book was to start cataloging all the writings that I had been doing on my blog for the people who may not have seen them when they were initially published,” he tells AllHipHop. “This was particularly important to me due to some of the topics I was writing about at the time like getting sober, Eyedea’s passing and suicide. The book also has some chapters where the writing is more humorous and light-hearted so that it’s a very balanced read overall.”

Copies are currently available on Blueprint’s Weightless Recordings website. His next album, Chamber Music II, arrives on November 5.

EXCLUSIVE: Damon Dash Roc-A-Fella Auction Finally Set

By: Grouchy Greg Watkins (@GrouchyGreg)Category: Exclusives

It is official: Damon Dash’s one-third stake in Roc-A-Fella Records will hit the auction block on November 14, 2024, following a decision by the United States Marshal to set the authorized date.

Dash, the co-founder of the pioneering independent Hip-Hop label, is selling his shares as part of an ongoing legal dispute centered around child support, back taxes, and other financial obligations.

According to legal documents, the minimum bid for Dash’s stake has been set at $3.2 million.

Proceeds from the auction will be allocated to numerous creditors, including $193,000 earmarked for child support and over $1.7 million for unpaid state taxes.

Additional payments will go to civil litigants, including film executive Josh Webber, who is expected to receive $823,000.

Photographer Monique Bunn has a $12,000 claim, and further payments will be directed to cover Dash’s outstanding state tax liabilities, which exceed $7 million overall.

The auction comes amid persistent tensions with JAY-Z, one of Dash’s former business partners.

The pair have been embroiled in a separate dispute over control of the 1996 album Reasonable Doubt – Roc-A-Fella’s most valuable – and only asset.

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In the lead-up to the sale, Damon Dash accused JAY-Z of undermining potential bids by asserting that, beginning in six years, rights to Reasonable Doubt would revert solely to JAY-Z, which could ultimately decrease the value of Roc-A-Fella.

Despite the disputes, the auction was cleared to proceed after U.S. District Court Judge Robert Lehrburger declined to intervene in the arguments regarding the future of the Reasonable Doubt copyright.

Dash, who helped establish Roc-A-Fella in the mid-90s alongside JAY-Z and Kareem “Biggs” Burke, reportedly hopes to secure at least $10 million from the sale of his portion of the once-celebrated Hip-Hop empire.

Young Thug Attempts To Squash Feud Between Drake, Future & Metro Boomin From Jail

By: Devon JeffersonCategory: News

Young Thug is attempting to squash the alleged rap beef between his close collaborators Drake, Future and Metro Boomin.

In a tweet the Atlanta rap superstar shared on Friday (October 18), Thug directly calls out the pair of rappers and their shared superproducer counterpart in an apparent attempt to extend an olive branch between them. Thug’s message arrives as tensions between Drake and the rapper-producer duo Future and Metro Boomin have risen over the course of the last few months following an assortment of sneak disses and direct jabs sent from both parties.

While the beef reportedly stems from rifts that were exacerbated by creative and competitive rivalries that have simmered over the years, the feuds reached a fever-pitch this summer after Metro Boomin released the “BBL Drizzy” instrumental diss track following Drake’s reference of him on his Kendrick Lamar rap battle diss track “Family Matters” during which he told the St. Louis producer to “Shut your hoe a## up and make some drums n###a.”

Thug, who’s currently locked away in Cobb County Corrections fighting his ongoing YSL RICO case against the state of Georgia, has apparently seen enough and decided to call on his peers directly to move-on past their disagreements and come together.

“@Drake @1future @MetroBoomin we all bruddas. Music aint the same without us collabin,” Young Thug wrote in the tweet.

The issues between the trio of stars became more public upon the release of the song “Like That,” featuring Kendrick Lamar, which many believe was a subliminal diss aimed at Drake and J. Cole. Produced by Metro Boomin, the track highlighted Kendrick’s sharp lyricism and took aim at rappers who don’t write their own material—an accusation often leveled at Drake.

The song’s success further strained the relationship, as Future and Metro’s pair of collaborative albums which featured the track with Kendrick appeared to align them against Drake in his battle with his West Coast-bred rival. Drake also commented on the beef, saying he and “Pluto never really been through s##t” which further complicated their previous dynamic, given Future’s history of collaborative albums and chart-topping hits with Drake.

Coincidentally, Thug’s plea to his collaborators follows Drake’s recent social media post in which he implied he put money up for Thug’s legal case while also calling for his release from jail.

In addition to Future’s repost, check out some of the reactions to Thug’s tweet below.

https://twitter.com/RavensRing3/status/1847405716270731536