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Teen Rapper Baby K Receives 25-Year Prison Sentence In Baltimore

By: Mike WinslowCategory: News

Baltimore rapper Baby K has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for attempted murder for his role in a 2023 attempted murder on a Prince George’s County school bus.

The stiff sentence is controversial because Baby K is only 16 years old.

The grim details were recounted. Baby K, who was 14 at the time, along with two associates, confronted another 14-year-old on the bus, aiming to execute a deadly plan.

Two teenagers restrained the victim while Baby K attempted to fire a gun three times, but technical failures spared the intended target’s life.

He pleaded guilty to various charges, including attempted first-degree murder, and faced the court’s strictest penalty.

“Anybody that saw the video and saw how close we came to losing a life on a public school bus, I’m sure was horrified, I’m sure that they were frightened when they saw this….I hope that this sentence brings some measure of peace and some measure of closure to the victims as well as the community,” Deputy Chief James McCreery said during a press conference.

Judge Michael Whelan emphasized Baby K’s past transgressions and the premeditated nature of the crime as pivotal factors in the sentencing.

Despite previous engagements with the juvenile justice system and orders for mental health and substance counseling, the teen had repeatedly failed to comply, which further justified the judge’s decision to try him as an adult.

The decision to sentence him as an adult also stemmed from a belief that the juvenile system had been ineffective in rehabilitating him.

“25 years—that is a significant sentence; it’s top of the guidelines and it was appropriate in this case because of the planning, the deliberation, the execution of what he wanted, which was to murder a child,” State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy added.

DJ Quik Fires Back at Stevie J’s Allegations Against DeVante Swing

By: Devon JeffersonCategory: News

DJ Quik isn’t going to stand for any DeVante Swing slander on his watch and has issued a message in response to Stevie J’s recent shady allegations about the vocalist.

In a recent Facebook post, DJ Quik came out swinging in defense of his longtime friend and R&B legend, dismissing recent allegations made by Stevie J. In an explosive interview, Stevie J claimed that Swing had assaulted one of his artists—a charge DJ Quik was quick to label as baseless. In the message he shared from Swing’s official FB page, Quick took Stevie J to task for alleging the Jodeci producer has ever, or would ever, put his hands on someone—let alone another artist.

“I gotta share my two cents on what Stevie J shared in an interview about DeVanté Swing slapping his artist—that s##t sounds made up.” DJ Quik wrote in the post. “I think Stevie J’s got some serious jealousy issues when it comes to DeVanté’s talent and success.”

Quik, who has know Swing for years and considers him a close friend, was adamant about the ill-willed nature of Stevie J’s claims as he continued. Given his allegiance to the 90s R&B savant, he didn’t hold back in criticizing Stevie J, suggesting that the allegations stem from deeper issues the producer-turned-reality-tv-star has with the limelight Swing has experience throughout his illustrious career.

“DeVanté’s a genius, man. He’s produced some of the biggest hits in R&B history, and he’s been doing it for decades,” he wrote. “Stevie J, on the other hand, has had some success, but he can’t touch DeVanté’s level of genius.”

Quik’s post went on to accuse Stevie J of having long-standing vendetta against Swing, which he believes has motivated him to speak negatively about him any chance he gets.

“Stevie J’s been trying to discredit DeVanté for years. He’s always talking trash about him in interviews, trying to make him look bad,” he claimed. “But at the end of the day, DeVanté’s still the one with the hits, the awards, and the respect of the industry.”

In closing, DJ Quik reassured his fans, “So, to all my fans out there, don’t believe the hype. Stevie J’s just a hater, and DeVanté Swing is the real MVP.”

The roots of the feud trace back several years, marked by competitive tensions and public spats between the two producers. In 2017, Stevie J appeared on the Drink Champs podcast where he alleged Swing smacked Missy Elliot, Timbaland and Ginuwine when they were all a part of his imprint Mob label.

Check out the full Facebook post above.

Nicki Minaj Recruits Cardi B’s Enemy For Second Leg Of Gag City Tour

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Nicki Minaj announced the openers for her Pink Friday 2 World Tour’s second leg on Friday (August 16). The diamond-selling rapper enlisted Tyga and Bia, who released a Cardi B diss track two months ago, for the Gag City Reloaded Tour.

“#GagCityReloaded will be a beautiful, magical dream come true,” Minaj wrote on Instagram. “Better than the 1st half & that wasn’t easy to do. New looks, set list changes, other secrets, ummmm new music? Lemme think about it. Thank you to the team doing this with me again. They’re simply the best. To the guest artists who will come out in their cities, thank you in advance; and to these 3 TALENTS (who I have so much love & respect for) for taking the G6 to #GAGCITY just for the Barbz & me. @tyga @bia @skillibeng. THANK YOU!!!!!!!!”

She added, “Barbz, we’ve already made history prior to LEG 2. TOP 10 in HIPHOP TOURS OF ALL TIME already. To everyone who came out on the first leg to support: GOD BLESS YOU. I LOVE YOU. I DO. Come back.”

Nicki’s booking of Bia added a new wrinkle to the Harajuku Barbie’s longstanding issues with Cardi B. Bia enraged Cardi B by allegedly spreading infidelity rumors. Cardi B threatened to sue Bia.

“I’ma sue you and you got to come with receipts,” Cardi B declared. “And not social media receipts, court receipts. I will get every little f###### red penny that you ever f###### make b####. Every money that you make off your publishing. So, find something safe to do.”

Bia responded by releasing the diss track “SUE MEEE?” in June.

“Put it on your hubby since you love lying on your vows/I write all my verses, I can do this s### for hours/I be damned I let a n#### f### a b#### inside my house/Your money long and you split that, your n#### saying that’s ours,” Bia rapped.

Cardi B hasn’t filed a lawsuit against Bia as of yet.

Tyrese Claims DJ Envy Banned Him From “The Breakfast Club”

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Tyrese revived his feud with DJ Envy to promote the upcoming album Beautiful Pain on Friday (August 16). Tyrese accused DJ Envy of refusing to let the singer on “The Breakfast Club” in a trolling video on Instagram.

“DJ Envy wouldn’t let me in,” Tyrese wrote over footage of him struggling to open a door with an iHeart Radio logo. “I’m still here stuck at the door…. I guess The Breakfast Club don’t want me to tell anyone about #BeautifulPain.”

He added, “C-The God please come open the door King.”

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A post shared by TYRESE (@tyrese)

DJ Envy and Tyrese’s issues went public when the latter appeared on “The Breakfast Club” in 2023. DJ Envy claimed Tyrese disrespected the radio host’s wife.

“I never talked to your wife in a disrespectful manner and you talked to mine in a disrespectful manner,” DJ Envy told Tyrese. “And I never told nobody that. And you can saw you were on those psych meds and you can say that you weren’t. But as a man, some of the things that you said, Tyrese, deserve me to box your mouth.”

Tyrese denied DJ Envy’s accusations. DJ Envy responded by inviting his wife on “The Breakfast Club” to elaborate on their fallout with Tyrese. The Fast & Furious star defended himself in several posts on social media.

“What I’m NEVER gonna do until I take my last breath is let anyone question my integrity, attack my character and be out here reckless on some random f### s###,” Tyrese wrote. “I would strongly suggest you tread lightly…. I don’t do cease-and-desist letters. I don’t deal with lawyers I don’t snitch…. I don’t gaslight I wanna f### up and I’ll make a mistake. I can tell my own self under the bus….. you decide on your own what level we’re gonna take it to from here…. I want all the smoke beige nigha.”

Tyrese’s latest jab at DJ Envy occurred days after the singer’s bizarre performance at the Los Angeles Rams vs. Dallas Cowboys preseason game. Tyrese wore a fake beard and wig in a questionable attempt to channel Marvin Gaye while singing the national anthem.

SIGNS: Bronx Boy On Feeding Tube Starves To Death After Mother Overdoses

By: Devon JeffersonCategory: Rumors

A special needs boy was found dead in a Bronx apartment, along with his mother, who authorities allege overdosed and left the boy helpless.

According to the New York Post, the heartbreaking incident occurred inside a 5240 Broadway apartment the mother shared with her son, who was on a feeding tube and appeared bedridden. The unfortunate and morbid discovery has left the city reeling after a preliminaty investigation has determined the special needs boy may have potentially starved after his mother died from a suspected drug overdose.

The boy’s death has sparked outrage due to the family’s history with the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS). The 39-year-old mother had been investigated for abuse and neglect, with the boy being removed from her care at one point, only to be returned later, sources revealed. This grave mistake has angered many, including elected officials and investigators.

“If you investigate a parent and return a child who later dies, that is a crime, and someone needs to be held accountable,” an investigator told The Post. “You can’t hide behind bureaucracy: ACS needs a total overhaul. This happens too many times, and one time is too much because we are talking about defenseless children.”

Tragically, this wasn’t the only child death under ACS scrutiny in the Bronx on Wednesday night. An 11-month-old girl was found dead after her mother called the police and said she drowned in the bath tub. Similarly, the 30-year-old mother of the deceased girl had previously been investigated by ACS and her father reportedly had an open case with the organization at the time of her death. The disturbing trend of oversight failures has cast a dark cloud over the agency, with Councilwoman Diana Ayala calling the boy’s death “heartbreaking” and vowing to investigate further.

“I will follow up to see what happened here,” Ayala stated.

Similar incidents have occurred across the city, with ACS facing harsh criticism for repeatedly returning vulnerable children to homes with questionable care. In recent years, there have been multiple cases of children dying under similar circumstances, sparking calls for reform and greater accountability within the agency.

Gunna Ignores Snitch Accusations & Celebrates Young Thug’s Birthday Amid Trial

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Gunna celebrated his embattled collaborator Young Thug’s birthday amid the YSL RICO trial on Friday (August 16). Gunna posted photos of the two on Instagram Stories while Young Thug was stuck in court for another day of testimony from key witness Kenneth “Woody” Copeland.

Young Thug, Gunna and 26 other defendants were indicted on RICO charges in May 2022. Gunna avoided trial by pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to violate Georgia’s RICO Act. He was released from jail in December 2022.

“I have chosen to end my own RICO case with an Alford plea and end my personal ordeal by publicly acknowledging my association with YSL,” he said in a statement. “An Alford plea in my case is the entry of a guilty plea to the one charge against me, which is in my best interest, while at the same time maintaining my innocence toward the same charge.”

Gunna was widely accused of snitching after accepting a plea deal. YSL Mondo, a co-founder of the alleged gang, was among the many people calling the rapper a rat. YSL Mondo recently expressed regret over his comments about Gunna.

“I’m man enough to say I should’ve never spoken about the Gunna situation cause technically he didn’t rat he just kinda folded under pressure & should’ve just stayed down with his mans til everything was over,” YSL Mondo wrote on Instagram Stories. “All the originals know he ain’t did nothing, wasn’t even around from the beginning so he wasn’t gone do no real time regardless. I feel bad cause now a n#### who literally is a real live rat is running round the city getting glorified & smiling like he didn’t just send multiple n##### to jail.”

YSL Mondo’s reference to a “real live rat” was directed at Copeland, who is testifying in Young Thug’s trial — unlike Gunna. Copeland was involved in a secret meeting with Judge Ural Glanville and prosecutors that derailed the trial for weeks. Judge Glanville was eventually forced to exit the YSL RICO case amid calls for a mistrial. Judge Paige Reese Whitaker is now presiding over the trial.

EXCLUSIVE: Charlamagne Tha God Emerges Victorious Over Sexual Assault Accuser

By: Justin IveyCategory: Exclusives

A New York judge sided with Charlamagne Tha God’s co-defendant Simon & Schuster in his sexual assault accuser’s lawsuit against him and the publisher. According to court documents obtained by AllHipHop, Judge Ona T. Wang granted Simon & Schuster’s motion to dismiss Jessica Reid’s defamation and intentional infliction of emotional distress claims on Wednesday (August 14).

Judge Wang said Reid’s claims against Simon & Schuster failed on several procedural grounds. The judge cited Reid’s reliance on New York’s Child Victims Act as one example.

“The CVA does not apply to plaintiff’s defamation and intentional infliction of emotional distress claims against [Simon & Schuster] because defamation and IIED arising out of the publication of a book do not constitute a sexual offense under New York criminal law,” the judge wrote.

Judge Wang added, “Second, even if the CVA did revive time-barred defamation and IIED claims that arise out of an alleged sexual assault, plaintiff’s claims were not timely. Courts have uniformly found that the two-year revival period for claims brought under the CVA ended on August 14, 2021. Plaintiff filed her complaint on December 19, 2022, more than a year following the end of the revival period.”

Reid accused Charlamagne, whose real name is Lenard McKelvey, of sexually assaulting her at a party in 2001. She was 15 at the time.

Charlamagne wrote about the incident in his book Black Privilege, which was published by Simon & Schuster in 2017. Reid sued Charlamagne and his publisher, but Judge Wang saw no merit in Reid’s defamation claim.

“McKelvey’s recounting of the assault and its aftermath is entirely compatible with plaintiff’s account of the assault except for plaintiff’s allegation that she was able to see McKelvey’s face prior to his sexually assaulting her,” the judge determined. “In any event, McKelvey’s account, although self-serving in its version of events, does not ‘expose’ [Reid] ‘to hatred, shame, obloquy, contumely, odium, contempt, ridicule, aversion, ostracism, degradation or disgrace.’”

Judge Wang said Reid did not “sufficiently allege [Simon & Schuster] acted with actual malice or with negligence in publishing McKelvey’s account.” The judge noted Reid “failed to allege that defendant either exhibited any form of extreme and outrageous conduct or intended to cause plaintiff severe emotional distress.”

Charlamagne was arrested for “willfully, unlawfully and feloniously engaging in penile/vaginal intercourse with a 15-year-old child minor” in 2001. The rape charge was dismissed. He pleaded guilty to contributing to the delinquency of a minor for underage drinking at his party. “The Breakfast Club” host denied sexually assaulting Reid.

BeatKing Cause Of Death Revealed As Rap Community Continues To Pay Tribute

By: London JennnCategory: News

BeatKing reportedly passed away in hospital with his two daughters by his side after suffering a pulmonary embolism. 

The Houston rapper, producer and DJ known for his club hits was just 39 years old. His manager, Tasha Felder, confirmed the tragic news earlier this week. 

A new report from TMZ reveals a rep for BeatKing confirmed he died in a Houston hospital on Thursday (August 15). He was rushed to hospital after fainting while doing a morning radio show but passed hours later with his two daughters beside him.  

The rep added, “It is truly sad, we loved him so much.” 

Tributes flooded in from the HipHip community from peers and former collaborators, including 2 Chainz, who featured on BeatKings’ “SDAB.” 

He posted an image of BeatKing on Instagram, writing, “My condolences @clubgodzilla God Bless your soul and family.” 

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A post shared by 2 Chainz Aka Tity Boi (@2chainz)

Three 6 Mafia’s Juicy J took to  X (Twitter), adding, “Rip BEATKING damn this one hurt.” 

Bun B also paid tribute to BeatKing on Instagram. “It’s always the good ones,” he shared. “Damn this s### hurt. Just a great spirited person. We lost a talented artist and father. Prayer for @talameshia and his loved ones. RIP @clubgodzilla.” 

Meanwhile, local radio station 97.9 The Box dedicated their morning show to the late artist. 

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A post shared by 97.9 The Box🤘🏽 (@979thebox)

USHER Dealt Huge Blow: Forced To Postpone More Shows Over Neck Injury 

By: London JennnCategory: News

USHER has more bad news after leaving fans devastated when he canceled the opening night of his Past Present Future Tour earlier this week. 

The R&B icon was set to kick off the tour in Atlanta on Wednesday (August 14). However, he scrapped the concert just hours before the scheduled start time.  

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A post shared by Usher (@usher)

In a further blow, USHER has now revealed that doctors have advised him to postpone two more concerts. On Thursday evening (August 15), the singer revealed he was forced to cancel additional shows due to an unhealed neck injury. 

In a statement posted to social media, USHER revealed he suffered a neck injury during rehearsals, leading to the first cancellation.  

“My hope was that with physical therapy and medical treatment, I would be able to overcome the injury and be ready for opening night,” he wrote. “Unfortunately, the injury has not healed yet, and my doctors have instructed me not to perform any shows this week.” 

However, USHER had some positive news, assuring ticketholders he’ll have recovered in time to kick off the tour next week. 

“The good news is that the doctors are saying that with appropriate rest and treatment, I should be ready to commence the tour in Washington DC on August 20th,” he added. “I love my fans and thank you for understanding that this injury must be healed so that I can give you the 100% excellence that you expect from an USHER show and that I will be on stage in your city very soon.” 

He also advised fans of the rescheduled State Farm Arena dates. The three postponed shows on August 14, 16 and 17 will now go down on December 9, 10, and 12. 

Dame Dash Accuses JAY-Z Of Hating: “Trying To Devalue” Roc-A-Fella Shares  

By: London JennnCategory: News

Dame Dash is responding to JAY-Z’s legal filing regarding the master recordings of his debut album, Reasonable Doubt, amid the upcoming sale of Dame’s Roc-A-Fella shares.  

Earlier this week, TMZ reported JAY-Z filed a notice claiming that the rights to the 1996 album will revert to him in 2031. One-third of Dash’s Roc-A-Fella Records shares will be sold by the U.S. Marshal at a public auction on August 29 in Manhattan. 

On Thursday evening (August 15), Dame Dash hopped on Instagram live in response to Jay-Z’s latest move. He appeared to accuse his former partner of hating and trying to “devalue” his shares in the company he co-founded with JAY-Z and Kareem Burke ahead of the sale. 

“This business that’s in plain sight,” he began. “Y’all get a headline and y’all read it stupid, I don’t know why. But I think everyone should be logical, do the math and just wonder like, why y’all wanna hate on the man and how much money he gone get. Why?” 

He continued, clarifying, “It’s really Roc-A-Fella Inc. that’s for sale. Reasonable Doubt is the only asset there” before returning to Hov. 

“But like I said, I don’t know why n##### is making announcement trying to devalue the muthafuckin masters. Well I do know why,” he added before answering his own question. “Cuz certain n##### got first right of refusal.” 

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A post shared by Dame Dash (@duskopoppington)

Dame recently made a post in response to JAY-Z’s filing.  

“They can say what they want, this s### is still for sale,” he wrote. “You’re not buying a copyright, you’re buying a piece of a company ROC A FELLA INC. Please only serious inquiries only!” 

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A post shared by Dame Dash (@duskopoppington)

Donald Trump, Fivio Foreign, Kodak Black Drop Bombshell Track “ONBOA47RD” 

By: London JennnCategory: News

Donald Trump has linked with Fivio Foreign and Kodak Black on a surprise new song called “ONBOA47RD.” 

Shortly after midnight on Friday (August 16), Fivio stunned music fans with a new collab single with Trump and the rapper he pardoned in 2021. 

Fivio Foreign launched the track on Twitter, tagging Trump and Kodak Black. “Surprise,” he captioned his post, in what could be the understatement of the century.  

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A post shared by The Real Fivio Foreign ❄️ (@fivioforeign_8fs)

Donald Trump is credited as a writer on “ONBOA47RD” and the track features snippets from his first public speech following the assassination attempt. 

“I’m not supposed to be here tonight,” Trump says in his RNC address. “I’m here today to announce a brand-new plan to deliver more opportunity, more security, more fairness.” 

The track opens with Trump declaring, “I will fight for you with every breath in my body and I will never ever let you down.” 

Fivio raps about his demons and “fighting for the cause” while Black brands himself a “drug dealer turned diplomat” and reflects on his relationship with Trump. 

However, the song was not popular with fans in the comment section, with some claiming the song cost Fivio supporters. 

“S### like dis is why you fell off. siding wit the oppressor is crazy work,” one person wrote. Another branded the track “The sunken place theme song,” while a third said it was the “corniest s### I seen in a minute. Oof.” 

“You’re telling me Fivio Foreign and Kodak Black just dropped a song featuring Donald Trump?? We live in a simulation,” one X (Twitter) user shared. 

Meek Mill Claims Michael Rubin Spoke Up About Black Culture Where Black Men Fell Silent 

By: London JennnCategory: News

Meek Mill is weighing in on Michael Rubin’s controversial remarks about Black culture amid the backlash. 

The Fanatics founder faced intense criticism over his comments in a recent interview. Although he has since apologized after being checked by a friend, Meek Mill said Michael Rubin has a point.  

The Philly rapper took to X (Twitter) on Thursday evening (August 15) to address the topic. Although he conceded that his co-chair at The REFORM Alliance shouldn’t have voiced his opinion “out loud,” he insisted the substance of his remarks was accurate. Moreover, Meek claims Rubin said what Black men have failed to express.  

“Rubin shouldn’t be saying that type stuff out loud,” Meek began. “Black man suppose to but nobody saying it…. Its like we only collab on songs women and parties… he be hearing my friends getting murdered like why meek, I can’t explain it to him in a sensible way!” 

However, his statements divided opinion, with some claiming Rubin was justified in voicing his opinion. Others called Meek out for failing to explain the wider issues to his friend.  

“Explain systematic racism to him,” one person replied, adding, “How Philly schools are underfunded. How kids don’t have things to do. How the media you contribute to glorifies that life.” 

Another person added, “Structural racism and poverty are great places to start. Please do not perpetuate the notion that Black people are inherently at conflict. This is a part of the delusion that white supremacy incites!!!!”

Schoolboy Q Reacts

Schoolboy Q also shared his objections, slamming the “Black on Black hate” narrative. 

“NO SUCH THING AS BLACK ON BLACK ANYTHING,” he declared. “WTF.”

During his interview on The Breakfast Club, Rubin, who is Jewish, discussed his concerns with so-called “Black on Black hate.” 

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However, he later walked back his statements amid the backlash. According to Rubin, a respected friend told him “it’s not my place to speak on Black culture.” 

Kendrick Lamar Overtakes Archenemy Drake in Latest Spotify Numbers

By: Staff WriterCategory: Uncategorized

The old rivalry between Drake and Kendrick Lamar has a long back story that goes back more than 12 years. Today, the two former friends are still battling each other for fans, making subtle references to each other in their music. 

It’s safe to say that they hate each other, but this was not always the case. Let’s dive into the Drake-Lamar controversy and look at why Lamar has recently bested his archenemy, according to Spotify’s latest stats.

Spotify Speaks for Itself 

Spotify allows artists of all kinds to share their music on the platform, making no distinction between those who have record deals with music agents and those who choose to remain independent. A Spotify promotion allows aspiring musicians to make a name for themselves starting from scratch, leaving the judgment of what good music is to the listeners who have the app. 

And the people have indeed spoken. As per Spotify’s latest statistics, Lamar has a larger audience than Drake! The rivalry between these two very different hip-hop artists has culminated in a perceived win for Lamar, giving him a massive foothold to possibly win the Song of Summer award later this year.  

Their Rivalry in a Nutshell 

Lamar and Drake started out as friends back in 2011, with Drake, in a sense, taking Lamar under his wing and even featuring him in one of his tracks. But two years later, fans started to debate which of the two was better. 

This resulted in a more competitive relationship between the two, which was exasperated by ‘dissing’ in interviews. It wasn’t long before comments began to be included in each of their respective lyrics, which announced a full-on rivalry between the two artists. 

The Difference in Their Music

It should be noted that Drake and Kendrick Lamar have two very different styles of music creation. Drake is known for his ‘high life’ lyrics, emphasizing money, cars, and living like a rich and famous person. Kendrick Lamar (known as the artist who saved hip hop) raps about where he came from, his humble beginnings, and the brutality of life. 

Hip-hop fans relate more to Lamar because his music avoids the commercialization of hip-hop and focuses more on the roots thereof. Whichever one you prefer, it isn’t surprising that Spotify shows a larger fan base for Lamar as opposed to the ever-declining audience of Drake. For some, the music of both artists is good and they are unaware of the past rivalry between these two. But for true hip-hop fans, this beef is just another in a long line of hip-hop history rivalries. 

Hip Hop as a ‘Beef’ Platform 

Although this rivalry between Drake and Lamar is officially said to be over, there have been some lasting effects on Drake as an artist. We only need to look at some of the past hip-hop rivalries to see that, in some cases, the rivalry itself lended to the popularity of both artists involved. 

Some examples of this include:

These rivalries were excellent publicity campaigns for the artists involved, and many of them resulted in a soap opera of drama that translated to higher album sales. But for Drake, this rivalry has visibly hurt his career, because the respective music styles of these two artists are so different and evidently oppose each other. 

How Has This Affected Drake’s Career? 

Despite these statistics, Drake seems determined to win the Song of Summer award with one of his two latest releases. ‘Sideways’ and ‘Healing’ have recently taken the world by storm, and only time will tell if either of them will trump Lamar’s releases.

Drake has been visibly affected by this beef between himself and Kendrick Lamar and has lost many of his loyal fans. Today is the start of his decline in music sales as his older hits make way for newer ones released by Lamar.  

Wrapping Up 

A question worth asking ourselves is, “Does Spotify’s numbers reflect the overall opinion of hip-hop fans across the globe?” These two artists are very different despite their shared music genres. 

Spotify is arguably the most popular music streaming app in the world, meaning these numbers are significant in what they translate. Fans are clearly more inclined to Lamar as the greatest hip-hop artist of our time, and it seems Drake will soon be left in the dust by his former rival. 

How Hip-Hop Artists Curate Their Iconic Fashion Styles

By: Staff WriterCategory: Sponsored Posts

Some Hip-Hop artists are known for their bold, distinctive fashion that helps them stand out and amplify their personal brands. From Run-DMC’s adidas tracksuits in the 1980s to the blinged-out chains and grillz of the 2000s, rappers have long used clothing as a form of self-expression and to showcase their success. Their ensembles are carefully crafted to reflect their personas and complement their music. For today’s Hip-Hop stars, fashion is much more than just throwing on whatever is lying around—it’s an integral part of their artistry and public image.

Developing a Signature Look

One of the keys to a Hip-Hop artist’s fashion is developing a signature look that instantly calls them to mind. This often starts while they are up-and-coming, homing in on a style that feels true to their identity. For example, A$AP Rocky made a splash with his eclectic, high-fashion takes on streetwear when he emerged on the scene. His taste for distinctive pieces gave him a standout look that fans could associate with his music. 

Looking for Clothes That Make Them Stand Out

Hip-Hop artists are not trying to blend in with subtle, understated looks. They want clothing that makes them the center of attention and amplifies their star power. One way they achieve this is by wearing one-of-a-kind pieces no one else has. This could mean getting custom apparel made just for them or seeking out exclusive designer collaborations, limited edition sneakers, or vintage finds no one else can replicate. 

Showcasing Success

The fashion of Hip-Hop artists also conveys their success and status. Expensive designer brands are a must – the bigger the name, the better. Labels like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Balenciaga and Givenchy frequently appear in rappers’ wardrobes, often covered in prints. For many artists, spending big is a sign they have made it and want to share their wealth. 

The Rise of Hip-Hop Jackets

In recent years, jackets have become a ubiquitous part of Hip-Hop fashion. Artists like 50 Cent and Kanye West have made bomber jackets, leather coats and other outerwear popular style statements. Jackets allow rappers to layer on an extra dose of flair. 

Rappers also love customizing jackets to match their personal brands. 50 Cent took military-style bombers to the next level by covering them in dollar bills or having his G-Unit logo engulfed in flames. Kanye West put his own twist on classic leathers by embellishing them with metal studs and eccentric patterns. He has taken streetwear staples and made them fashion-forward. Other artists go for more sophisticated looks with velvet blazers or custom tweed jackets in vivid colors and prints.

Paying Homage to Hip-Hop History

While setting trends is important, the best hip-hop fashion also shows respect for the culture’s roots. Many artists incorporate retro sportswear like tracksuits, leather bomber jackets, or Kangol bucket hats as a nod to classic Hip-Hop style. Today’s stars want to push boundaries while still honoring the aesthetic foundations of the genre.

Fashion allows Hip-Hop artists to express their identities and attitudes through their clothing. For rappers building their brands, having a distinctive sense of style is critical. Their ensembles showcase their success and give them an iconic image fans can instantly recognize.

Snoop Dogg Appears To Confirm Jaw-Dropping Paris Olympics Earnings 

By: London JennnCategory: News

Snoop Dogg was a highlight of the 2024 Paris Olympics and rumored to have earned an eye-watering amount for his coverage of the Games. 

While the initial $500,000 a day plus expenses speculation was unconfirmed, Snoop Dogg appears to have corroborated the figure. 

On Thursday evening (August 15), the West Coast rap icon re-shared a video praising him for bringing eyes to the event. The clip also labeled Snoop the “main star” of the Games and justified his staggering daily fee, claiming he earned “nearly $9 million” but increased viewership by a whopping 79 percent. 

“Snoop also lives and parties in Paris for free, all to bring more attention to the Olympics,” the caption read. “Almost every top broadcast features Snoop. He attends all major Olympic events. For 17 Olympic days, he’ll earn nearly $9 million.” 

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NBC hired Snoop Dogg as a primetime correspondent and credited the rapper with helping boost ratings. An average of 34 million daily viewers tuned in for the first five days, up 79 percent from the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, according to an NBC Sports release.  

Snoop Dogg was a mainstay of the Games, from carrying the Olympic torch through Paris to closing out the handover ceremony with Dr. Dre. His unique commentary, sideline antics and hilarious segments went viral throughout the event. 

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Dr. Dre recently gave Snoop his flowers following their performance of “The Next Episode” at the closing event.  

“Really, Snoop, he’s the superstar,” Dr. Dre said. “I’m the co-star when we get on stage. It’s different when we’re in the studio, you know? I’m the captain when we’re in the studio, but when we go outside, Snoop is the guy.” 

The super-producer also revealed his upcoming album with Snoop Dogg is some of his best work. 

Rimanist Braces For Manifestation Heading Into 2025

By: Staff WriterCategory: Music News

Image above: Major Recording Artist Rimanist performing live at the WE BUILT DIFFERENT Conference on South Beach, Miami. Photo credit: Dorian Ash

Grasping your vision without any concessions is a profoundly surreal experience in life. Maturing involves intense self-reflection, identifying inner flaws, honing inherent weaknesses, and embarking on unconventional paths.  Pursuing your vision often means a solitary journey, as others might struggle to grasp or follow your unique thought patterns. Crafting brilliance is a multifaceted endeavor involving risk, bravery, uncertainty, and impeccable timing.

Embracing your vision allows one to truly understand their identity and limitations. Few individuals are prepared to push themselves to the critical junction of now or never. Transforming the world demands that a person becomes at ease with discomfort.  Living a life characterized by constant change, innovation, growth, and refinement is essential. Genuine fulfillment in life is found in the ongoing process of elevating personal achievements to new heights. Contentment is closely related to failure.

Artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist RIMANIST deeply understands both the depths of his struggles and the power of his innate talents. His life narrative encompasses every challenging and motivational aspect imaginable. Growing up in the harshest environments exposed RIMANIST to life-threatening situations, which helped him forge a unique mental survival strategy and a champion’s mindset.

Music was a significant part of RIMANIST’s upbringing from a young age. The genres of R&B, Jazz, and Hip-Hop played crucial roles in shaping his mentality. During his teenage years, he began writing lyrics in a personal notebook, drawing inspiration from the gritty streets of Detroit. For RIMANIST, storytelling and converting thoughts into empowering words come naturally.

In 2013, RIMANIST launched a multimedia company that includes various divisions such as TV/Film, a clothing line, and a record label. His company has released over 10 commercial music projects, amassing more than 500,000 streams across all digital streaming platforms. Looking ahead to 2025, RIMANIST’s production company plans to debut a docuseries about his life on Amazon Prime.

RIMANIST’s record label has slated three new music projects for release in 2025, and he is set to be a prominent headliner at the WE BUILT DIFFERENT Conference in Los Angeles, California this November. His innovative dual-gender apparel company, Unrestricted Takeover, LLC, is on track to surpass $30,000 in annual sales by 2025.

Unrestricted Takeover, LLC is more than just a clothing brand; it captures the vibrant energy and fervor of Generation Z. As we look toward 2025, RIMANIST’s influence in both music and lifestyle continues to grow significantly. He also plays a pivotal role as a Culture Curator for 99.7 DA HEAT MIAMI on iHeartRadio and serves as a Brand Advocate for RADIOPUSHERS and MUSICHYPEBEAST.

Joe Bone: From Louisiana to Taking Over the Southern Rap Scene

By: Brxton LeeCategory: Music

Born Joseph Sellers circa 1980s Monroe, Louisiana, Joe Bone has officially dropped into the southern rap like a meteor on unsuspecting listeners. Already known by many for his simply distinctive intermingling of his trademark rapid Midwest flow and his heart-stopping hardcore southern style, Joe Bone’s latest single, “Let Me In,” is raw evidence of his incredible resilience and utter grit in the faces of extreme adversity and a myriad of industry challenges.

In essence, Bone’s journey — intensely rooted in as much hustle as passion — is a story of grit and tenacity, put on along the streets of Monroe, Louisiana. Born in the 80s and raised in the 90s, Bone brings a sound that mirrors his life as the embodiment of a natural-born hustler.

With the spirit of a relentlessly driven magnate and profound in his pursuit of success in the music industry, Bone kicked off his career with Backwoods Productions. Here, he worked to hone his craft, effectively developing a reputation for bringing a genuinely unique style to his lyrics, scheme, and flow. Over the years, Bone has released a series of hit mix tapes, including “Street Grinders Mixtape,” “American Way Mixtape,” and his acclaimed album “Turnt Up.”

“Let Me In” has been announced as what essentially amounts to a cry for recognition. At the center of Bones’ most recent single, “Let Me In,” is a tremendously vulnerable and deeply personal narrative. Produced in collaboration with Marcus Puckett, aka T-Boy, the track goes far beyond what we know of mere music, full-on into a powerful anthem that can only result from years of struggle and perseverance. The title speaks volumes about Bone’s path through the industry, as he passionately asserts his well-deserved recognition and acceptance in a realm that frequently overlooks raw talent in favor of quick sensationalism.

In his own words, Bone describes the latest track as an intimate reflection of the pain and aggression accumulated over years of striving to break through barriers. “Let Me In” effectively states the rapper’s deepest intentions and operates as a rallying cry for recognition. Its infectious beat quite simply works together to tell the story of an artist who refuses to be sidelined.

His greatest dreams and aspirations will travel with him as Bone moves ahead. The rapper foresees a future where he spreads his influence far beyond the southern rap scene to become a household name in the industry and inspire other artists to achieve their own greatness. Beyond his success, Bone supports and nurtures emerging talents because he prefers to pay forward the opportunities that helped shape his life in music.

Connect with Joe Bone and stay updated on his latest releases by following him on TikTok and Instagram. Check out his latest single, “Let Me In,” on Songwhip, and listen as he continues to reimagine the boundaries of southern rap as you know it.

Mazi VS “Take All Bets” Feat. Jim Jones Hits Top 25 On I-Tunes ! 

By: Brxton LeeCategory: Music News

On August 15th, rising artist Mazi VS unleashed his latest single, “Take All Bets,” featuring Jim Jones across all major platforms. The track wasted no time making an impact, shooting straight onto the iTunes charts upon its release. Currently, the song is holding its own, bouncing between the Top 50 and Top 25, as listeners continue to vibe with its infectious energy.

“Take All Bets” stands out as a powerful showcase of Mazi VS’s lyrical prowess, set against a gritty New York-style beat that pays homage to the genre’s roots. The anticipation for the official music video is building, with fans eagerly waiting to see the visual interpretation of this dynamic track. As Mazi VS continues to climb the charts, “Take All Bets” is solidifying his place in the music scene. 

Be sure to wait for the official drop on Mazi’s YouTube page!

Aussie “B-Girl” Digs Deeper Hole With Olympics Defense: “I Gave My All”

By: Kyle EusticeCategory: News

Macquarie University lecturer and part-time breaker Rachael “Raygun” Gunn, who ignited a firestorm of controversy with her 2024 Paris Olympics performance, addressed the backlash in an Instagram video on Thursday (August 15).

While she took a moment to acknowledge the people who’ve been supportive in the wake of her viral routine, she soon focused on the negativity that’s been funneled her way ever since.

“I just want to start by thanking all the people who have supported me. I really appreciate the positivity and I’m glad I was able to bring some joy into your lives,” she began. “I didn’t realize that that would also open the door to so much hate, which has frankly been pretty devastating.”

Gunn also insisted she wasn’t competing as some kind of troll job or a social experiment as many have suspected online. She continued: “While I went out there and I had fun, I did take it very seriously. I worked my butt off preparing for the Olympics and I gave my all. Truly.”

Toward the end of the clip, Gunn begged the press for privacy and asked for her circle to be left alone. She added, “I’m going to be in Europe for a few weeks for some pre-planned downtime but I’d really like to ask the press to please stop harassing my family, my friends, the Australian breaking community, and the broader street dance community. Everyone has been through a lot as a result of this, so I ask you to please respect their privacy.”

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But Gunn’s explanation was quickly picked apart, with many confused by her lack of accountability. They were also surprised she didn’t offer a simple apology for what many believe (including the judges) was a subpar performance. The comment section lit up with reactions like, “Nice try but obviously you haven’t accepted what you did” and “I think people would respect you more if you just owned up to your performance ..rather than defending just own up to the fact that hey, maybe you weren’t prepared and shouldn’t have been at the Olympics.”

Other comments included, “Playing the victim card…… just apologize on how bad you were and prob gain more respect” and “What a lack of honest self reflection. Pretty childish.”

One person really laid it out with, “I do not hate you but I stand by my right to criticize your selection and this performance. You have to own up to a bad result. Your response is narcissistic. Please try to be humble and accept that a lot of people felt you did not represent this country as best you could or better than other breakdancers.

“I don’t agree with a petition however I believe your response to criticism is causing so much angst. Is it not possible for you to say your performance was not good because you received no points? I believe your response to criticism is causing people to feel you think you are beyond criticism. And no one is. I believe you are playing he victim in this.”

The petition the person mentioned is in reference to a since-deleted Change.Org petition that was launched to hold Gunn and Anna Meares “accountable for unethical conduct.” Addressed to Anthony Albanese, the petition argued that the inclusion of Gunn and the green-lighting of her performance at the Games raises serious concerns about the integrity of the selection procedure. The petition alleged that Gunn manipulated the selection process to her own advantage, arguing that more talented and qualified breakdancers such as “G Clef” and “Holy Molly” were unfairly overlooked.

“We demand a public apology from Rachel Gunn and Anna Mears for misleading the Australian public and attempting to gaslight the public and undermining the efforts of genuine athletes,” it read. “We also call for a full investigation into the selection process, an audit of Dr. Gunn’s business dealings, and a global public apology to the breaking community for the unethical behavior that has tainted this sport.

“Rachel Gunn’s lack of ethics and morals raises serious concerns about her fitness to teach and hold any position of authority in the sport or university. Australia must do better by its athletes and ensure that the principles of fairness, transparency, and integrity are upheld in all aspects of Olympic selection.”

Houston Rap Community Mourns After BeatKing’s Manager Confirms His Death

By: Kyle EusticeCategory: News

Houston rapper BeatKing, who was the voice behind the viral songs “Then Leave” and “Thick,” has died. His manager, Tasha Felder, confirmed the news in an Instagram post on Thursday (August 15).

“Today August 15, 2024 we have lost @clubgodzilla. BeatKing has been the best part of the club for over a decade,” she wrote. “He has produced and worked with so many artists, that his sound will forever live. He loved his daughters @clubgodparenting, his music and his fans. We will love him forever.” She added in the caption, “Forever,” alongside a black heart emoji.

Bun B, UGK legend and a pillar of the Houston rap community, expressed his condolences on Instagram. He wrote, “It’s always the good ones. Damn this s### hurt. Just a great spirited person. We lost a talented artist and father. Prayer for @talameshia and his loved ones. RIP @clubgodzilla.” His post elicited a flood of reactions from his peers, including Hi-Tik, Skratch Bastid, Goodie Mob’s Big Gipp, Three 6 Mafia, Buckshotz, Juicy J and Young Noble

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BeatKing, whose real name is Justin Riley, was a rapper, producer and DJ. He emerged in the early 2010s and is known for his high-energy, bass-heavy music that often features humorous, raunchy lyrics. BeatKing’s style is heavily influenced by Houston’s club culture and Southern Hip-Hop and he often incorporates themes of nightlife, strip clubs and party life into his music.

BeatKing gained significant attention with his breakout mixtape Club God, which led to the popular “Club God” series. One of his most well-known tracks is “Throw Dat Ahh,” a hit in the club scene. Over the years, BeatKing has collaborated with various artists, including DJ Chose, Queendom Come and the late Gangsta Boo. In addition to his solo work, BeatKing is recognized for his work as a producer, having crafted beats for various artists and projects.

BeatKing was just 39 years old. AllHipHop sends our condolences to his loved ones, especially his children.