homepage

A Tribe Called Quest Named 2024 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame Inductee

A Tribe Called Quest is among the eight performers being inducted into the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The news arrived via American Idol on Sunday (April 21) with co-hosts Lionel Richie and Ryan Seacrest unveiling this year’s class. Other inductees include Peter Frampton, Mary J. Blige, Cher, Dave Matthews Band, Foreigner, Kool & the Gang and Ozzy Osbourne.

Alexis Korner, John Mayall, Big Mama Thornton,  Jimmy Buffett, MC5, Dionne Warwick and Norman Whitfield will be inducted in separate categories, while former Motown executive Suzanne de Passe will receive the annual Ahmet Ertegun Award.

Phife Dawg’s mother, Cheryl Boyce-Taylor, tells AllHipHop, “I cried, screamed and jumped up and down when I heard the news. I’m thrilled for ATCQ, they truly deserve this. This group of young men changed the trajectory of Hip-Hop. So proud to call my beloved Malik, son.”

The nominees were originally announced in February. To be eligible for nomination, an individual artist or band must have released its first commercial recording at least 25 years prior to the year of nomination. Ten of the 15 nominees were on the ballot for the first time, including Mariah Carey, Cher, Foreigner, Frampton, Kool & the Gang, Kravitz, Oasis, O’Connor, Osbourne and Sade.

It means, however, Eric B. & Rakim won’t get in this year—despite this being the second time they were nominated. Speaking to AllHipHop at the time, Eric B. was hopeful, saying, “Maybe it’ll happen this time. I feel great about it. Let me tell you, anytime anybody nominates you or thinks about you, you should feel great. I think it’s a long time coming. We’re all righteous guys and girls, so it’s on God’s time, not our time. I’d be just as appreciative if I won it the first time, so it’s great.”

While Eric B. & Rakim fans will cross their fingers for next year, A Tribe Called Quest is presumably celebrating. After all, it’s overdue. The legendary group’s debut album, People’s Instinctive Travels and the Paths of Rhythm, arrived 34 years ago in 1990, well within the range for consideration. ATCQ joins other Hip-Hop acts like the Beastie Boys, Public Enemy, Grandmaster Flash & the Furious Five, Kool Herc and LL COOL J, among others.

This year’s ceremony takes place on October 19 in Cleveland and will once again stream live on Disney+ with a special airing on ABC at a later date. It will be available on Hulu the next day. The 2023 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony streamed live on Disney+ for the first time ever; the special on ABC reached more than 13 million viewers across linear and streaming.

Nicki Minaj Criticized For Throwing Object Back Into Crowd After She’s Almost Hit

Nicki Minaj is under fire once again after she decided to throw back an object that nearly hit her into the crowd. Video of the rap superstar, who’s currently on The Pink Friday 2 Tour, started making the rounds on Saturday (April 21). In the clip, Minaj is seen rapping onstage at a stop in Detroit before something narrowly misses her head. Instead of letting it go, she picks up the object and throws it back into the audience.

While many people applauded the move, others thought it was reckless. As one person wrote, “Why she would throw it back in a crowd of people not knowing who threw it or who she actually hit?” Another said, “Well that was stupid!! What are the odds that she hit the same person who threw it. Most likely it was an innocent bystander who got hit that will now sue.”

Whatever the case, Minaj clearly wasn’t too bothered by it and continued the show.

The Pink Friday 2 Tour has been going well thus far. Although last week Nicki Minaj she alleged she was targeted by somebody intent on sabotaging the run. On Wednesday evening (April 17), moments before she was due to hit the stage, Minaj fired off a complaint about an alleged conspiracy to prevent her from performing in Montreal.

“Yesterday my flight scheduled for midnight shut their plane down @ 12:58pm,” she began a lengthy post. “Never in 15 years have I heard of anything like that. A 70K G4 and thought we were going to PAY THEM for that flight as well as whatever flight I’d have to get on next. They thought wrong. For a 930pm show in Canada. When we got to the plane, they then said they were ‘STILL FUELING.’ At 630pm, they said they were ‘still fueling’ (for an hour & a half flight).”

She followed up with another post in a Spaces chat on Twitter (X), insisting she was almost a victim of sabotage. She continued, “The plane had to time out and they wouldn’t be able to start until 6 A.M. The plane has to time out for a less than two-hour flight? You thought that you were going to be able to scam some money? They on they last legs, chile. A lot of people, they don’t really have a sure thing anymore. So, that’s why the desperation is starting to kick in.”

In any event, watch the new debacle above.

Nicki Minaj & Future Unknowingly Used In Major Concert Fraud That Scammed Millions

A multi-city Hip-Hop tour scam involving big names like Nicki Minaj and Future has led to the arrest of a Dallas man who defrauded investors out of millions of dollars for his own personal use.

Nicki Minaj and Future were falsely advertised by headline performers for a multi-city tour that never materialized, leading to Carlos Desean Goodspeed’s indictment on wire fraud in Dallas, Texas.

Goodspeed, 43, claimed to be responsible for organizing a concert tour featuring prominent artists such as Nicki Minaj and Future, which prompted investors to pour substantial funds into the venture.

Victims expected lucrative returns from Goodspeed, who promised them through his illegitimate promotions company, “Straight Like That Entertainment.”

He convinced them to invest with the allure of quick financial gains only to divert the money for personal use, such as lavish shopping and premium living expenses.

The financial ramifications of Goodspeed’s alleged deceit were staggering.

His deceitful practices extended to organizing fictitious events featuring other big names in Hip-Hop, including Tyler, the Creator and Ludacris.

After the initial fraudulent event went unchallenged, the deceit deepened with further promises of additional concerts utilizing the credibility of these well-known artists to secure more funds from hopeful investors.

In one instance, he acquired $400,000 from an investor, promising to turn it into $650,000 within four months by financing a concert tour.

However, those funds were diverted towards personal gains, including luxury shopping and upscale living expenses.

Another victim was persuaded to wire an additional $130,000 with the lure of future concerts, only to have those funds also misappropriated.

Collectively, the victims of Goodspeed’s fraudulent scheme faced losses in the millions.

The authorities began investigating after multiple complaints were lodged by the deceived investors, leading to Goodspeed’s arrest at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

Despite his appearances and promises made to investors, he was taken into custody, reflecting the gravity of his crimes, encompassing deceit, exploitation, and a stark abuse of trust within the entertainment industry.

Goodspeed’s case is now moving through the legal system with hopes of justice for the defrauded parties and reparative measures to fortify investor protections in the future.

Lil Mosey Embraces Health & Fitness Following Acquittal

Lil Mosey’s recent acquittal in a rape trial has catalyzed a transformative shift in his lifestyle, steering the rapper toward sobriety and physical fitness.

After being charged with second-degree rape in 2021, Lil Mosey, born Lathan Moses Echols, faced intense scrutiny and stress.

This high-profile legal battle reached its climax in March 2023 when a jury found him not guilty after seven days of courtroom deliberations.

After being exonerated, the experience was a wake-up call for Lil Mosey, prompting him to reassess his life choices and health habits.

In an interview with AllHipHop, Lil Mosey said he has given up liquor, nicotine, and marijuana. He shared his journey toward health and sobriety.

“I definitely play a lot of video games [laughs]. But I’ve been in the gym. Around this same exact time last year, right after I was found not guilty: alright, now I got some stress off my shoulders, I need to lock in and get healthy. Because I felt so unhealthy. I was smoking nicotine all day, every day,” he mentioned concerning his new lifestyle.

His motivation to sustain a healthier lifestyle became a priority when he realized the detrimental impact smoking had on his health.

“My lungs [were] starting to not feel the same…so I stopped hitting that s###. I started getting on the treadmill. I started running. It went from I couldn’t even run a mile, I couldn’t at all, now I run three miles every day almost,” Lil Mosey added.

Today, Lil Mosey’s career continues to progress. His latest single, “Thug Popstar,” features his signature style and reflects his renewed focus and discipline.

The rapper’s journey from legal turmoil to a healthier, more grounded existence offers a fascinating glimpse into the redemptive power of personal crises.

Young Buck Bankruptcy Drama Ensues Over Huge Amount Of Back Child Support

The drama in Young Buck’s bankruptcy saga now involves the mother of his children and not just former G-Unit boss 50 Cent. 

Two women with children from Young Buck are fighting with the bankruptcy trustee over who should get direct access to the whopping amounts the rapper owes to both women. 

One woman, Shannon Robertson, claims Young Buck owes over $153,000 in back child support. The trustee overseeing the rap star’s bankruptcy claims the actual amount is $81,471.70.

Another woman named Deatrice Blackwell is also trying to wrangle $28,000 worth of back child support from Young Buck. 

Instead of paying the women directly, the bankruptcy trustee is asking a judge to route the payments through the State of Tennessee, DHS Child Support.

The money would go to the State Disbursement Unit, which would ensure that Young Buck’s financial responsibilities are addressed as he navigates his complex legal and financial challenges.

Young Buck’s financial turmoil was exposed when he filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in 2020, reportedly to evade debts owed to various creditors, including rapper 50 Cent and the mother of his children.

Young Buck has contended that his bankruptcy filing was primarily to extricate himself from financial obligations tied to his G-Unit contract, which includes a contentious $250,000 purportedly owed to 50 Cent.

While 50 Cent asserts that this sum was an advance requiring repayment, Young Buck’s legal team argues that it was not explicitly outlined as a loan that needed to be repaid in the contractual agreements. 

This dispute has led to a strenuous legal battle between the two artists, which has yet to be resolved.

Young Buck’s catalog was recently sold for $800,000, which should cover the rapper’s debt and allow him to emerge from bankruptcy successfully. 

Pharrell Sued Again – This Time P!nk Is Battling Over P.Inc Trademark

P!nk has filed legal action against Pharrell Williams over his proposed P.Inc. trademark.

The “Cover Me in Sunshine” singer’s lawyers have sued Pharrell Williams, citing the brand name’s similarity to her stage name.

The legal paperwork filed on the singer’s behalf shows that she officially registered the ‘PINK’ trademark in 2001, and they now believe that Pharrell’s attempt to use a comparable brand could harm her business.

“P.Inc mark is similar to the PINK marks in sight, sound, meaning and commercial impression,” the suit claims. “(The) goods and services are identical and/or closely related. … (P.Inc) is likely to market and promote its goods through the same channels of trade and to the same consumers as (P!nk).”

P!nk’s reps have asked the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board in the US to consider their appeal.

The pseudonym P!nk was first born out of an embarrassing moment at camp, but later came to life as a reference to a “Reservoir Dogs” character.

“It’s just a nickname that’s been following me my whole life,” she told CNN in 2001.

Pharrell Williams is also currently in a legal dispute with his former Neptunes partner Chad Hugo, after Hugo accused him of seeking sole control over the group’s trademarks without consulting him.

P!nk is set to take her “Summer Carnival” tour back to the UK, Ireland and Europe this June and July, before embarking on a string of North American dates.

Kanye West Allegedly Hit Wrong Person During Twin Mix-Up At Disney World

Ye may have assaulted the wrong person in an attempt to protect his wife’s honor during a family outing to Disney World.

The case of mistaken identity involves one-half of a pair of well-known Los Angeles twin restaurateurs.

On April 16, the Los Angeles Police Department began looking into Ye as a suspect for battery following the reported altercation over claims the rap star assaulted a man.

Initial reports suggest that the altercation began when a man supposedly pushed or grabbed Censori, West’s wife.

In a bizarre twist of fate, the rap star allegedly hit the wrong twin.

Eyewitnesses told TMZ the initial claims made by West’s team that Bianca Censori, Ye’s wife, was sexually assaulted after one of the twins reportedly groped her.

Instead, they reported that one of the men West struck had merely bumped into Censori accidentally amid the bustling hotel environment.

Further investigations reveal that police have not found evidence to support West’s account that the man in question physically and sexually assaulted Censori.

The ongoing probe leaves many details up in the air, including which twin was initially involved in the interaction with Censori.

The alleged victim did not seem to need medical attention, but law enforcement plans to interrogate West.

This isn’t the first controversy involving West and allegations of battery.

The music mogul had previously been sued by an autograph-seeking fan and later, in 2023, a paparazzi also filed a lawsuit against him for assault and battery.

Despite these legal entanglements, Ye and Censori moved swiftly past the incident. 

The day following the alleged confrontation, they were observed enjoying themselves at Disneyland, seemingly unaffected.

Rapper Chris King Shot & Killed In Nashville

Rapper Chris King was fatally shot in Nashville, Tennessee and now friends like Justin Bieber and Trippie Redd mourning publicly.

Thanks to his deep ties to other well-known musicians, Chris King became a recognized figure in the music industry.

Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances that led to the fatal incident, but preliminary reports suggest King was in Nashville working on an upcoming music project when he was shot.

He also in town to perform at Cannafest, according to one of his final posts on Instagram

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chris King 👃🏾💦 (@whoischrisking)

His fellow artists and collaborators have deeply felt the loss, expressing their shock and sadness over King’s untimely passing.

Trippie Redd took to Instagram to commemorate Chris King, saying, “I am so hurt rn I can’t even think I love you bro come back!!!!!”

@whoischrisking 💔I can’t catch a break”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Main Character Syndrome (@trippieredd)

Having lived with Justin Bieber for over a year, King formed a bond that was evident in their personal interactions.

Bieber shared his sentiments on Twitter, stating, “Can’t believe you’re gone. You will be missed brother. Prayers to Chris’s family during this devastating time.”

The investigation into Chris King’s death is ongoing, with authorities piecing together the events that led to this tragic loss.

Eminem Crosses New Sobriety Milestone Almost 17 Years After Near-Fatal Overdose

Drugs almost killed Marshall Mathers in 2007. Mathers, better known as rap juggernaut Eminem, developed an addiction to pain killers while filming 2002’s 8 Mile. While in the grips of the disease, Eminem took it too far one December evening and wound up in the hospital. He had been taking up to 20 pills a day before he got the wake up call he needed. Although it took him until April 20, 2008 to finally quit, he’s maintained his sobriety now for 16 years.

Eminem celebrated the milestone by posting a photo of his Alcoholics Anonymous coin to his social media accounts on Friday (April 20), although he didn’t include a caption. His peers, however, had plenty to say. Danny Boy of House of Pain, who also has several years of clean time under his belt, wrote, “God is good. Well done!” while longtime manager Paul Rosenberg said, “Sweet 16. Proud of you.”

Large Professor, photographer Kevin Mazur and actor Michael Pierino were among the many others congratulating him in the comment section of his Instagram post.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Marshall Mathers (@eminem)

Eminem opened up about his decision to get sober and how it affected his music during a 2022 episode of Rosenberg’s Paul Pod podcast.

“I remember when I first got sober and all the s### was out of my system, I remember just being, like, really happy and everything was f###### new to me again,” he said about making his 2009 album, Relapse. “It was the first album and the first time that I had fun recording in a long time. It was like the first time I started having fun with music again, and re-learning how to rap, you remember that whole process. It took a long time for my brain to start working again.”

Eminem certainly hasn’t had any trouble getting back in the studio in recent times. He’s released multiple albums over the course of the last several years, including 2018’s Kamikaze and 2020’s Music To Be Murdered By. In the meantime, he continues to be a beacon of hope for others who are struggling with the same plight.

Mark Zuckerberg Hints At Music Collab With T-Pain After Bearded Photo Goes Viral

Hip-Hop fans might witness the birth of an unexpected duo as T-Pain’s 2011 Facebook-inspired tattoo potentially foreshadows a future collaboration with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.

On his new social media platform Threads, Zuckerberg hinted at a musical partnership after his bearded image went viral, stirring considerable excitement among users.

Responding to jokes about him releasing a diss track, Zuckerberg playfully quipped, “Might have to actually do the T-Pain collab now.”

Post by @zuck View on Threads

The saga began after an edited photo of Zuckerberg with a beard circulated widely across social media platforms.

Many noted how closely he resembled rapper Jack Harlow.

The image appeared shortly after Mark Zuckerberg introduced the latest iteration of Meta’s AI in a video.

As the bearded depiction gained traction, especially on the rival platform x.com, commenters quickly associated his new rugged look with a musical alter-ego.

T-Pain, who famously got a tattoo in Hawaii that showcases the Facebook “like” button with the phrase “You Don’t Have to Like Me,” has long admired the social media giant.

This historic fondness may come full circle with Zuckerberg’s acknowledgment of a potential collaboration on Threads.

Although Zuckerberg has not confirmed any plans to grow a beard or venture into music production, his engagement with the idea has undoubtedly intrigued fans of both the tech and Hip-Hop communities.

SZA To Be Honored By Songwriters Hall Of Fame

SZA is set to be honored by the Songwriters Hall of Fame.

The “Kill Bill” hitmaker will receive this year’s Hal David Starlight Award. 

Established in 2004, the award recognizes “gifted young songwriters who are making a significant impact in the music industry with their original songs,” according to the announcement.

SZA, 34, will be presented with the award at the 53rd Annual Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards dinner, which will be held at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City on Thursday, June 13.

Previous winners of the prestigious award include Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, Lil Nas X, Drake, Alicia Keys, Nick Jonas, John Legend, Ne-Yo, Benny Blanco and last year’s recipient, Post Malone.

“This is such an exciting time for songwriters and music. Phenomenal artists like Beyonce and Taylor Swift are pushing the envelope of what success looks like, but who could argue that the last 2 years belong to SZA,” said Nile Rodgers, SHOF Chairman.

“Incredible songwriting, incredible performances, incredible artistry. She so deserves to be the 2024 recipient of the Hal David Starlight Award!”

During the ceremony, songwriters Hillary Lindsey, Timbaland, R.E.M., Steely Dan and Dean Pitchford will be inducted into the Hall of Fame, while veteran hitmaker Diane Warren will be honored with the Johnny Mercer Award.

P Wilson: A Hip-Hop Journey Through the California Streets

In the concrete jungles of California, under the relentless gaze of the sun, echoes of the rhythm of life intertwined with the gritty authenticity of the streets. Amidst this urban symphony emerges a voice that encapsulates the very essence of hip-hop. Known to the world as P Wilson, Patrick Bleak, with his raw talent and undying passion, has carved a niche for himself in the music industry, captivating audiences far and wide.

P Wilson’s journey into the realm of music was not propelled by the allure of fame or fortune but rather by an unwavering love for hip-hop. His commitment to the craft, evident in every beat and rhyme, speaks volumes about his dedication. Throughout his illustrious career, P Wilson has collaborated with renowned figures such as DJ Silk and Crooked I, cementing his status as a force to be reckoned with.

When questioned about his distinctive style and sound, P Wilson’s response is unequivocal. His music serves as a mirror to the streets, unpolished and authentic, yet laced with an underlying message of empowerment. This authenticity strikes a chord with his audience, forging connections that transcend mere admiration for his artistry.

Despite his self-reliant nature, P Wilson recognizes the power of collaboration. Drawing upon his vast network, he endeavors to create music that defies boundaries and resonates with listeners on a profound level. Moreover, his personal struggles, including battles with addiction, have only served to fuel his creative fire, transforming his music into a beacon of hope and resilience.

In the digital age, social media serves as a gateway for artists to engage with their audience, and P Wilson does so with finesse. Through his compelling narrative, he invites fans into his world, sharing not only his music but also his triumphs and tribulations, thereby forging bonds that transcend mere fandom.

As he sets his sights on the future, P Wilson remains unwavering in his pursuit of excellence. With his upcoming single, “Moving On Us,” poised to make waves, and the possibility of a lucrative distribution deal on the horizon, the trajectory of his career knows no bounds.

For aficionados seeking more than just music—a story, a journey, a glimpse into the soul of California’s streets—P Wilson stands as a beacon of inspiration, an artist poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of hip-hop.

Lil Uzi Vert Humps Stage In Controversial Coachella Fit—Gets 50 Cent’s Attention

Another day, another social media outrage. As Coachella Weekend 2 kicked off Friday (April 19), some of Lil Uzi Vert’s fans were left perplexed by the rapper’s choice of attire during the set.

Rocking a red leather crop top with puffy shoulders, belly button ring, matching red pants and a white Kelly Berkin bag, Lil Uzi Vert danced seductively for the crowd and, in the process, raised a few eyebrows—especially when he started “vogueing” à la Madonna circa 1990. Shortly after the performance concluded, Twitter (X) blew up with reactions to Vert’s outfit.

Comments like “I miss 2016 Lil Uzi vert like WTF is this” and “Someone has to explain to me what Lil Uzi Vert is doing at Coachella right now?! What is happening?!” Another fan noted, “This new trend of rap is making men weak. First it was all about drugs sex and violence. Then it was satanic imagery. And now it’s feminizing us. When will you all wake up?”

But evidently Lil Uzi Vert has a strong fanbase. Several of Uzi’s fans flooded Twitter (X) with positivity, saying things like, “[THEY] SUCH A BADDIE!” and “HE DID GOOD!” Still, there seemed to be more people who were disturbed than impressed. “The industry fell off,” one person wrote, while another wrote, “That’s not right what lil uzi vert doing bra that’s gay as hell.”

Of course it wasn’t long before 50 Cent caught wind of Lil Uzi Vert’s antics. He shared a headline that read, “Lil Uzi A City Girl: Onstage w/ His Nails Painted & Carrying a Purse!” He wrote in the caption, “Something in the water? What makes you do that, bro?”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 50 Cent (@50cent)

Styles P added his two cents as well, writing on Instagram, “Rap game gets weirder by the week. I’m a cool weirdo but it’s the weird weirdo s### going on so I’m lost. It’s some type of agenda going on and they ain’t fill me in on it!!!” He added, “imm just gonna stay outta the way and stay golden!”

Lil Uzi Vert likely isn’t sweating the negative attention and, most likely, hanging out girlfriend JT while counting his Coachella cash.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mrdavidstyles.com (@stylesp)

Mark Zuckerberg Doesn’t Know Who Turned Him Into Internet Jack Harlow

Mark Zuckerberg has caught wind of his Jack Harlow-facing, A.I.-generated transformation, and his reaction appears to be that of one mixed with confusion and/or frustration.

Apparently, the tech puppeteer of Meta, Facebook and Instagram wasn’t feeling any of the #ZaddyZuck or #ZuckHarlow alter egos created from his likeness in the latest viral A.I. scandal. For those of you who may have missed it, A.I. savvy trolls repurposed screenshot from a video Zuck originally posted on his official Instagram account and gave the screengrab the “Churchill Downs” treatment. Coincidentally enough, the original video served as an announcement for launch of Meta A.I.’s latest update.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mark Zuckerberg (@zuck)

The disingenuous A.I. deepfake hit social media and spread like wildfire, with one tweet showing a before and after comparison of Zuckerberg reaching more than 19 million viewers on Twitter (X). Zuckerberg wasn’t intrigued, though—well ,at least in the same way millions of social media users were. His reaction in the comments section of an Instagram post that shared a side-by-side comparison from the video juxtaposed next to the A.I.-generated image is a tell-tale sign he’s had it with social media’s un-seriousness.

“Okay who did this?” he wrote in the comment section of the post.

It’s hard to tell if buddy is actually really upset about the whole ting or if he’s more-so just curious as to why whoever did it actually did it. No Diddy! In my humble opinion, I think Zuck should gon’ head and just let the internet do what it does and go with the flow. Just imagine if Zuckerberg linked up with Harlow for a video using Meta A.I. and they drop that joint and it goes No. 1. That’s an easy lick, Zuck!

Peep the post below for a glimpse of the alterations which manifested Zuck Harlow.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by DROPS (@dropsmedia)

NLE Choppa Re-Creates NSFW 2Pac Flicks In Duck Boots Promo Shoot

NLE Choppa is once again pressing the boundaries of modern masculinity amid the rollout of his recent release, “S### Me Out 2,” in addition to the launch of his signature duck boots.

On Wednesday (April 17), the Memphis native commemorated the release of his upcoming duck boot collaboration with Fctry Labs by sharing the raunchy flicks from the promotional shoot on his Instagram. The photos, which essentially feature him completely naked with merley his genitals being covered by jewelry and gold chains, was inspired by 2Pac, according to the post.

“If I Was A Duck Boot I’d Wanna Wear Me Too [Duck and tongue emojis] #2Sexy#SLUTSZN -SIR. F*CKALOT,” Choppa wrote in the caption.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NLE Choppa (@nlechoppamusic)

Believe it or not, NLE Choppa’s timing is promptly impeccable, considering 2Pac’s original photoshoot occurred in April 1996. 2Pac collaborated with renowned photographer David LaChapelle, who notably trended in 2021 upon photographing Travis Scott’s ASTROWORLD cover artwork.

Held during a turbulent period in his life, just months before his tragic death, the shoot captured 2Pac in a raw and vulnerable state, juxtaposed with elements of opulence and extravagance. The images from this session not only served as a visual testament to 2Pac’s enduring legacy but also challenged conventional notions of masculinity and authenticity in the Hip-Hop world.

NLE Choppa recently challenged toxic machismo in the industry during the early stages of the rollout for “S### Me Out 2” in a similarly racy Instagram post in which he criticized Black men for what he perceives as their inability to have fun.

“Hey man, say man this is a PSA from Sir F##k A Lot himself,” he said in part in the video. “Hey man I got an inspiring challenge for all the real n###as, the confident n###as, not the insecure n###as that want to uphold a thug image all day and be dry and don’t want to have fun like Black men used to have fun back in the 70s and the 80s. This not for you.”

Check out the revealing post above and view behind-the-scenes footage of 2Pac’s shoot with LaChapelle below.

Chingy Says Transgender Slander Continues To Impact His Career

Chingy said his career continues to suffer due to long-standing rumors about an alleged affair with transgender model Sidney Starr, despite her admission that the claims were false.

Chingy had his professional world rattled in 2012 when Starr claimed they had been romantically involved.

Chingy climbed the ranks of the Hip-Hop scene with hits like “Right Thurr” before the scandal broke.

The situation, which Starr later confessed was a fabrication, led to significant professional setbacks for the rapper, including losing a record deal.

Chingy openly discussed the severe impacts of the rumor on his career trajectory with TMZ.

“When that happened, I lost a lot of stuff based off a lie, which was just the most oddest thing I’ve ever seen. Ain’t nothing good happen from that for me… That situation hurt my career like I’m just gonna be honest about it,” Chingy stated.

Despite Starr’s eventual retraction and apology, the damage was done, casting a long shadow over his subsequent musical endeavors and public image.

Since the incident, Chingy has occasionally spoken out against the pitfalls of the industry and the challenges of maintaining a clean and truthful narrative in the public eye.

However, the rapper is pushing forward with his music career. He just dropped a new single aptly titled “Nu Beginnings.”

Take a listen below.

Was NBA YoungBoy Inspired By Brazilian Woman To Hit A Lick?

Either NBA YoungBoy was inspired by the film Weekend At Bernie’s or the world is incredibly small, and he and a Brazilian woman share a common interest in the identities of the deceased.

In case you missed it, court documents obtained by AllHipHop revealed an investigator determined the 24-year-old rapper was posing as an elderly woman named Gwendolyn Cox to get prescription drugs. As a result, a motion was filed to revoke his pre-trial release on April 18 and YB, who was already on house arrest awaiting trial in a gun case, was reportedly transported to Louisiana to serve his sentence.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by AllHipHop (@allhiphopcom)

In an even more bizarre turn of events, Brazilian woman Erika de Souza Vieira Nunes was caught on camera attempting to use the identity of a deceased person for her own personal gain, much like NBA YoungBoy. Nunes was recorded wheeling her deceased uncle into a Rio de Janeiro bank in a desperate attempt to secure a loan, rather than prescription drugs, in his name. The eerie footage shows the woman trying to coerce her limp uncle into signing paperwork, despite his obvious lifelessness. She’s seen pleading with him, asking if he can hear her and even attempting to hold his head upright as it continually slumps.

Bank employees grew suspicious and alerted the authorities, leading to her arrest. The victim, identified as Paulo Roberto Braga, had been dead for hours before being dragged into the bank. Nunes now faces charges of theft through fraud, embezzlement and abuse of a corpse. As police investigate the circumstances surrounding his death, the shocking incident raises questions about the extent of family involvement in the macabre scheme.

Now, it’s obvious that NBA YoungBoy acted on his own accord, but it’s certainly worth noting the fact that two isolated incidents of identity theft of the deceased happening in essentially the same week is mad wild! Like, are folks really committing fraud like that? Apparently NBA YoungBoy and Nunes are—allegedly, that is.

Watch footage of the occurrence involving Nunes below.

DJ Quik Surprises Crowd With Rodney O Performing Future’s “Like That” Inspiration

As self-anointed “influencers” and millennials high on Molly twirled around to manufactured DJs at Coachella, Hip-Hop heads in Colorado were witnessing history. On Friday (April 19), AEG Rocky Mountains hosted Ice Cube, DJ Quik, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony and Living Legends at Red Rocks Amphitheater for its annual 4/20 event—in an unexpected yet somewhat predictable spring snow storm.

Living Legends (minus Murs) hit the stage early, warming up the crowd with material from the West Coast collective’s latest album, The Return, and other underground classics.

Bone Thugs were up next, although only three of the five could make the trek: Layzie Bone, Wish Bone and Flesh-N-Bone. Backstage, they took photos with their fans, did a bizarre Quizno’s ad (free drinks and sandwiches included, of course) and touched on Krayzie’s absence.

In a text to AllHipHop, Krayzie revealed a show in Boston had left him unable to use his voice due to wafts of weed smoke overpowering the venue. Considering his near-death experience last year, it was smart for him to stay behind, especially when it’s a 4/20 show in Colorado. After sailing through iconic songs like “Look Into My Eyes” and “Tha Crossroads,” the shivering temperatures sent them back to their dressing rooms to warm up.

DJ Quik, who introduced AllHipHop to Rodney O of the duo Rodney O & Joe Cooley prior to his set, soon stepped on stage to bring his signature West Coast gangsta rap to the freezing audience. As a welcomed surprise, Rodney O unexpectedly grabbed the mic to perform the 1988 single “Everlasting Bass” from the album Me & Joe. With the bravado of a seasoned vet, Rodney murdered his verses and elated those who knew their Hip-Hop history. (Those who didn’t, well, let’s hope they learned a little lesson.)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kyle Eustice (@therealkyleeustice)

Rodney O is currently experiencing an exciting career resurgence after Future & Metro Boomin sampled “Everlasting Bass” for their No. 1 single “Like That” featuring Kendrick Lamar (the now-infamous diss). DJ Quik and crew then made the wise decision to play the We Don’t Trust You track for the sold-out crowd, almost like “yeah, kids, we were first.”

Speaking to AllHipHop outside of DJ Quik’s dressing room, Rodney O briefly spoke about the sample of “Everlasting Bass” being used for the biggest song in the country.

“It’s amazing,” he said. “For something I made when I was 16, 17 years old to come back and be bigger than it was, ‘Hey, I’m all in!’ Keep it moving. Y’all keep listening!”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kyle Eustice (@therealkyleeustice)

Hitting the stage 15 minutes ahead of schedule, Ice Cube put on a stellar performance as usual, expertly executing fan favorites such as “Friday, “Check Yourself” and “It Was A Good Day.” But the highlight was seeing the camaraderie behind the scenes, a reminder of just how tight-knit the Hip-Hop community really is.

Layzie, Wish and Flesh were taking photos with DJ Quik, Quik was clearly ecstatic to bring out Rodney O and Living Legends member The Grouch couldn’t hide his enthusiasm when crossing paths with the “Tonite” legend in the hallway.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kyle Eustice (@therealkyleeustice)

For those unfamiliar with Rodney O, like he says in his Instagram bio, you “betta ask somebody!” In the late 1980s, he and Joe Cooley were signed with Egyptian Lover’s label, Egyptian Empire, for the aforementioned debut, Me & Joe. Subsequent tours included bills with MC Lyte, N.W.A, Kool Moe Dee and Grandmaster Flash. Interestingly enough, they gained more popularity in South Florida and played a pioneering role in the Miami bass scene.

Rodney O still retains 50 percent of the rights to “Everlasting Bass,” meaning the Future & Metro Boomin track is putting some well-deserved money in his pockets. After all, “if it don’t make dollaz, it don’t make sense.”

Jeezy Eases Custody Request ln Divorce War With Jeannie Mai

Jeezy has revised his custody request for his young daughter with T.V. host Jeannie Mai, aiming for shared custody amid their ongoing divorce proceedings.

Initially demanding full custody due to Mai’s extensive work commitments, documents filed in Atlanta’s Fulton County now reveal a plea for equal parenting time.

Jeezy’s main issue with Jeannie Mai centered around his struggle to maintain a consistent presence in his daughter’s life since the couple’s split in late 2023.

He alleged his limited access to Monaco, aged 2, has strained his relationship with his daughter due to Mai’s abrupt move and communication blockade.

According to the freshly filed court papers, Mai has also blocked Jenkins from contacting Monaco via FaceTime, further complicating his relationship with the toddler.

The documents state, “(Jeezy) has consistently been an invested and active father. The unilateral decision by (Jeannie) to leave the marital home and restrict access to the child did not prioritize the well-being of their daughter.”

The development in the custody battle trails the couple’s publicized divorce filing in September, which ended their marriage of approximately two years.

The legal documentation paints a picture of a father desperate to remain integral to his daughter’s upbringing amidst a turbulent separation.

During this period of adjustment, both parents have continued their professional engagements.

Mai hosts the television show “How Do I Look?” while Jeezy pursues various projects in the music industry.

The court has yet to decide on the custody arrangement, but both parties have expressed their commitment to co-parenting amid the ongoing legal challenges.

Curren$y Gaining On Master P As NOLA Top Entrepreneur With New THC Soda?

Just in time for 4/20, Curren$y has released a fizzy, flavorful trip into the stratosphere of refreshments, which could give him the edge over New Orleans’ food industry hometown hero.

Curren$y, in cahoots with Crescent Canna, has unveiled the all-new Jet Life THC Soda, “the ultimate THC-infused elixir.”

“It’s the highest level of refreshment,” Curren$y declared.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Crescent 9 Seltzer (@crescent9seltzer)

Crafted in the heart of New Orleans, Jet Life THC Soda draws inspiration from Spitta’s favorite O.G. strains and the nostalgic flavors of grape lemonade. Melding together top-tier, hemp-derived THC extract with vegan ingredients and all-natural flavors, the soda boasts a tantalizing blend of grape sweetness, lemony zest and the subtle allure of terpenes, all encapsulated within each can’s mighty 50 mg THC punch.

“It’s been a wild ride working alongside the Jet Life crew,” Joe Gerrity, Crescent Canna’s CEO, beamed. “Elevating cannabis beverages to Curren$y’s celestial standards is the ultimate honor for Crescent Canna.”

In addition to Jet Life THC Soda, the Jet Life THC Collection also boasts Jet Life Grape Lemonade THC Gummies, each packing a potent 8 mg THC per piece.

Expanding his empire beyond the studio, Curren$y established Jet Life Recordings in 2011 and Jet Life Apparel in 2012, in partnership with his longtime confidant Mousa Hamdan, propelling the brand into the stratosphere with high-profile collaborations alongside the New Orleans Pelicans, Reebok, and NASCAR.

With this latest venture, both Crescent Canna and Jet Life are poised to soar to new heights, ready to take the world by storm.

“We’re thrilled about our alliance with Crescent Canna,” enthuses Mousa Hamdan, Jet Life’s co-founder and CEO. “We’re about to reach cruising altitude!”

Additionally, Spitta’s Jet Life partnership with popular New Orleans restaurants We Dat’s elevates his push into the food industry even further. And in a sense, he’s getting up there with Master P, whose entrepreneurial journey in the food industry has been nothing short of remarkable.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by spitta_andretti (@spitta_andretti)

Starting with Rap Snacks in the early 1990s, Master P revolutionized the snack game by featuring popular rap artists on the packaging. The move not only appealed to Hip-Hop fans but also showcased his keen understanding of branding and marketing.

Building on this success, Master P expanded his culinary empire with ventures like Uncle P’s rice and pancake mix, offering quality products at affordable prices. Through his relentless work ethic and business acumen, Master P has proven himself as a force to be reckoned with in the food industry, setting an inspiring example for aspiring entrepreneurs everywhere. And now, Curren$y is taking the reins and doing the same for the generations beneath him. New Orleans, stand up!