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Jastin Martin Explains How Her Deleted Instagram Account Led To A Major Label Deal

By: Shirley JuCategory: Breeding Ground

Once you hit play on Jastin Martin’s music, it’s hard to stop listening. 

Born and raised in Houston, Texas, Jastin is a trap-soul singer, songwriter, and producer, boasting an undeniably soothing voice that separates herself from other artists in the music industry. Growing up to the likes of Bob Marley, Lenny Kravitz and Evanescence, the rising star pulls from a melting pot of influences — all of which mold her into the artist she is today.

In describing herself, she states she’s “extremely ambitious, as well as extremely outgoing. Very much a people person. Very free- spirited. I flow with the days.”

Fast forward to 2023, Jastin Martin unveils her highly-anticipated debut album titled Miss Me Yet? Clocking in at 10 tracks, the project perfectly showcases her minimalist approach, giving fans a front row seat into her world over evocative instrumentation. 

AllHipHop spoke with Jastin Martin, who was in high spirits in her hometown of Houston. Read below as we discuss her roots in Houston, favorite artists, signing to Def Jam, her debut album, studio essentials, goals, and more!

AllHipHop: How would you describe your sound?

Jastin Martin: I usually always like to say a mix between R&B and trap-soul. Neo-soul. It’s a mesh.

AllHipHop: Being from Houston, talk about your roots in the city. There’s a lot of music culture out there. 

Jastin Martin: So much, I love my city. I love being from Houston. I always say I’ll probably never move away. [laughs] But yes, so many different sounds. We have the Beyonce’s, the Travis Scott’s, the Don Toliver’s. It’s very easy to be heavily influenced by all the different sounds. I grew up listening to a lot of different music too, just influenced by what all my family was listening to. It mixed in with me also me from Houston.

AllHipHop: What was the moment you fell in love with music?

Jastin Martin: I loved music since under the age of eight years old. I remember I used to go to church. I was super young, seven or eight. I literally would cry when the choir would sing, because it’d touch my spirit. That’s around the time when I started writing songs and playing instruments. I played instruments pretty much my whole life until I turned 15. I got to high school, then I switched to choir. So I fell in love with music at a really young age.

AllHipHop: Who are your favorite artists?

Jastin Martin: One of my favorite artists is my labelmate, which is crazy. It’s Jhene Aiko.

AllHipHop: Talk about signing to Def Jam, that’s huge.

Jastin Martin: It’s so crazy for me. It’s still surreal, because Jhene is now my labelmate. I remember growing up, I was around the age of 10 when my mom put me on to her. The first song I ever heard by Jhene was “Stranger,” it was so different. I fell in love with her sound and sonically. It’s crazy to be signed to Def Jam, but also to know that some of the most amazing and talented artists are my labelmates is even more crazy to me.

AllHipHop: How did you find your way to Def Jam? Or how do they find you?

Jastin Martin: I posted a singing video. Funny story, I’ma try to make it quick. I’ve been building all of my social media platforms since I was in middle school, grade school. I was posting covers and remixes of me singing and I built my Instagram. One day, my Instagram got deleted. I was heartbroken because that’s where the labels and everybody was discovering me and reaching out. Because they were following on Instagram. So when it deleted, I was like oh my God. I made a new Instagram and I only had a thousand followers. I thought I’m never going to get seen, and that’s how I was found. Somebody that posted me off the smaller Instagram was followed by my A&R that first found me. That was crazy too. Alignment is crazy.

AllHipHop: Why did your Instagram get deleted?

Jastin Martin: Somebody reported it. It was one of those scams where it was “send me this much money or I’m reporting your Instagram.” I guess they reported it so many times, it deleted. It was crazy. 

AllHipHop: God got your back though!

Jastin Martin: Right, exactly. [laughs] I was heartbroken girl.

AllHipHop: Is Jastin Martin your real name?

Jastin Martin: Yeah, mmhmm. It is. I wish I would’ve went by Jas. Jas is my childhood nickname. Everybody calls me Jas. I’m like, why did I go by my whole name? [laughs]

AllHipHop: Congrats on the release of your debut album, Miss Me Yet? How are you feeling?

Jastin Martin: Yes, it’s my first debut album. I feel so good about it. It’s getting so much love and so much great feedback. I’m really happy. I also got to get that off mentally too. Now when I write these days, I don’t even write heartbreak songs and sad songs. I’m in a whole nother space, I think it’s because I finally got that off. Just going with the wind.

AllHipHop: What was the creative process behind the project? 

Jastin Martin: The creative process was my usual process. I have a couple of different processes. Three things I would do in the creation of Miss Me Yet?, I’d either go to the park with my guitar, start from scratch and write. That’s why quite a few of the songs on the album are just guitar. It’s acoustic because that’s how I made it. I fell in love with it just like that, super simple with no drums added. Also I’d write some songs in the bathroom. The remainder of the songs, I’d write on a rooftop, looking at my city downtown. 

AllHipHop: Why’d you name is Miss me Yet?

Jastin Martin: Basically the title, there’s two sides. There’s the side where you see now, I’m doing good. I’m signed, I’m getting discovered. I’m moving up. I’m chasing my dreams, gaining my success. Do you miss me now? You wish you was here, you wish you could been a part. Then it’s the other side that’s do you miss me? I might miss you, depending on if you say you miss me. It’s two sides: the emotional side and the ego.

AllHipHop: The title track is “Miss Me Yet?” Did a certain someone inspire that?

Jastin Martin: Definitely. The whole album mostly was about one specific relationship and experience.

AllHipHop: Does he know about him? 

Jastin Martin: I’m pretty sure. [laughs] I’m almost positive that they do.

AllHipHop: Do you have a favorite song off the project?

Jastin Martin: Yeah, my favorite song is “Up.” It was the last song that I made. I always like to throw out there that I made it on my Instagram Live, so it’s still up on my page when I first made that in my house from scratch. It’s my favorite one. It hits the hardest. It hits the most for me.

AllHipHop: Three things you need in the studio at all times?

Jastin Martin: Girl my red wine. Sweet red wine. Hot chips are my thing. Every studio I go to, they know I have red wine in the back and Hot Cheetos. [laughs] And my phone, because that’s where my Notes are. My lyrics.

AllHipHop: What is it you want fans to get from your story?

Jastin Martin: I really want people to be able to relate and feel it how their spirit wants to receive it. Feel it because I know how I feel and how other people’s music makes me feel. For example, Jhene’s music. I want it to be received however their spirit receives it.

AllHipHop: What do you like to do when you’re not doing music?

Jastin Martin: I love to workout. I’m a full workout head. I also box, that’s super fun for me. I like to go to the park. I live by the park, so I walk to the park. Play the guitar. I know that’s still music, but my guitar. That’s it. 

AllHipHop: Talking about linking with Maleek Berry on “Replacement.”

Jastin Martin: That was so crazy. Malik is one of my favorite Afro artists. I’ve been listening to him for years. Never once would I have thought that I’d have a song with him, so that’s crazy. I want to step into Afro because I’m super influenced by and love Afro. I made the song, now who could I get? What Afro artists would even want to get on the song? Because I’m a little American artist that just signed. Nobody really… and he jumped on. I’m super grateful for that, because he didn’t have to do that. 

AllHipHop: How’d you guys get in touch? 

Jastin Martin: See, my label. They’re good friends, so it worked out.

AllHipHop: Any goals for yourself at this point in your career?

Jastin Martin: I do have some goals. I’m vlogging behind-the-scenes and stepping into a new era of myself. That’s something that I love. I’m obsessed with growing and changing and transforming, constantly changing. One of our goals is to really start incorporating dance, because I made the soul ballads and the sad songs and heartbreak songs. But behind-the-scenes, I’m stepping out of that and stepping into more feel-good music and more sexy music. Just incorporate dance and yes, some some fun, exciting things. So be looking forward to

AllHipHop: Anything else you’re excited for?

Jastin Martin: I’m also excited, there is a deluxe version of my album that’s coming out very soon. It’s going to be pretty fun. Got some surprises coming for that too.

AllHipHop: Give us a feature!

Jastin Martin: [laughs] So we gon’ do a remix. We gotta do a remix. I’m also going to extend some of the favorites that are super short, because I’m the queen of doing one minute songs. One of the favorite ones, we’re going to extend and make it longer.

Joey Bada$$ Says Becoming A Girl Dad Made Him Soft “In The Best Way Possible”

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Joey Bada$$ explained how fatherhood changed him for the better during an appearance on Good Morning America. The Pro Era rapper discussed his life as a girl dad promoting his new mentorship program on ABC’s morning show.

“[Becoming] a girl dad has made me a very soft individual,” Joey Bada$$ said with a laugh. “But in the best possible. It’s made me have way more patience than I’ve ever had. It’s made me become a better listener and just become more of a gentle being.”

Joey Bada$$ was asked about his desire to help men of color through the creation of his Impact Mentorship program. He told GMA it was important to open a pathway for others to find professional and financial independence.

“I’m finding ways to give back,” Joey Bada$$ said. “I’m finding ways to create opportunities for other people who are not particularly represented or spoken for or have access to the resources. I feel like when I’m doing that, I’m living in my purpose the most.”

Applications for the free mentorship program close on October 29. The program offers opportunities to learn from Joey Bada$$, 9th Wonder, Young Guru, former Supreme creative director Tremaine Emory and more.

Tekashi 6ix9ine Released On Bail In Dominican Republic

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Tekashi 6ix9ine received bail in an assault case, allowing the controversial rapper to get out of a Dominican Republic jail on Tuesday (October 24). He was released on $500,000 bail, per Antena Noticias 7 in Santo Domingo.

Authorities arrested 6ix9ine in the Dominican Republic on October 15. He was accused of assaulting producers Cristian Anthony Rojas and Nelson Alfonso Hilario García at a studio. According to TMZ, 6ix9ine was allegedly upset about the producers spending time with his girlfriend Yailin La Más Viral.

6ix9ine, whose real name is Daniel Hernandez, reportedly tried to leave the country after the attack. He was stopped by a charter flight company, which checked him for outstanding warrants. Police apprehended the 27-year-old artist at the Hotel Balcones del Atlántico in Sanchez. Authorities transported him to the province of La Vega.

A La Vega court granted bail to 6ix9ine but issued a restraining order to keep him away from his alleged victims. He was also ordered to undergo anger management.

6ix9ine celebrated his release in a video posted on Instagram Stories. He thanked his Dominican supporters by speaking to them in Spanish. A large group of fans previously gathered outside of the jail to ask for his release.

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Kanye West Faces Copyright Infringement Lawsuit From Los Angeles Mission Volunteer

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

A homeless shelter volunteer sued Kanye West for copyright infringement stemming from his 2021 visit to the nonprofit Los Angeles Mission. According to Radar Online, volunteer Elijah Graham claimed a video he filmed of Ye’s visit was wrongfully used to promote the rapper’s fashion and music.

“[Kanye], without permission or authorization from [Graham], actively copied and/or displayed [Graham’s] video on the account and engaged in this misconduct knowingly and in violation of the United States copyright laws,” Graham contended in his lawsuit.

Graham called himself an “event planner” for the Los Angeles Mission, which offers shelter and meals to the homeless. Graham filmed Kanye’s speech when the unpredictable artist appeared at the nonprofit’s Thanksgiving event in 2021.

Kanye ranted about needing to “be back home” with his family at the event. He was going through a divorce with Kim Kardashian.

Graham sued Ye for unspecific damages. Graham accused Kanye of profiting off the video and ruining the potential value of the footage.

The copyright infringement lawsuit added to Kanye’s already extensive list of civil cases. Last month, his former project manager Tony Saxon sued the G.O.O.D. Music founder. Saxon claimed he was fired for not complying with a “dangerous” request to remove all windows and electricity from Ye’s Malibu home. Ye also faced lawsuits from former Donda Academy employees.

Lil Wayne Takes Sports Fandom To Next Level As Part-Owner Of MLP Team

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Avid sports fan Lil Wayne became a part-owner of a professional sports team. The diamond-selling rapper joined the ownership group of Major League Pickleball’s Texas Ranchers.

“Pickleball is the moment and I’m excited to be part of the Texas Ranchers ownership group,” Lil Wayne said in a press release. “I’ve enjoyed watching and couldn’t pass up the opportunity to join this team of owners.”

The Ranchers’ ownership group includes The Kid LAROI, country artist Zach Bryan and Dallas Cowboys star Micah Parsons, among others. Lil Wayne will serve as a strategic advisor for the Austin-based team.

“We’re so excited to have Lil Wayne on board,” Ranchers CEO Evan Floersch said. “From the get-go, we set out to build a team that, at its core, was centered in pop culture to support our mission of becoming one of the most recognized brands in American sports. Having Wayne’s guidance, along with the rest of this incredible ownership group, emphasizes our stance on redefining sports ownership and being a positive force for good in our local pickleball community and beyond.”

Lil Wayne’s ownership stake was announced as he prepares for the release of his ColleGrove 2 album with 2 Chainz. The collaborative project is scheduled to drop on November 17.

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Shyne Documentary, “The Honorable: Shyne,” To Be Produced By DJ Khaled

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

A Black-led affiliate of Disney and ESPN, Andscape and ColorCreative, is about to begin production on a documentary detailing the extraordinary life of controversial Bad Boy artist, Shyne. As previously reported, Shyne’s journey has taken him for a recording artist to an inmate to becoming the Leader of the Opposition in the Belize House of Representatives and leader of the Belize United Democratic Party.

Now, his life is being made into a film, The Honorable: Shyne. The movie will be directed by Marcus A. Clarke, the man behind projects such as Blood Brothers: Malcolm X & Muhammad Ali. He also worked on Future’s documentary, The WIZRD.

Per Billboard, the executive producers on the project are DJ Khaled, Ameer Collier, Carolina Groppa, Raina Kelley, James Shani and Talitha Watkins.

Watkins said she believes the movie “paints a comprehensive picture of a man who has overcome immense challenges, to redefine his life, make a positive impact on his community and reconcile with his past.”

Shyne also released a comment on the documentary and what it means to him to have the story of his life on the big screen.

“Immigrating from Belize to Brooklyn as a child left to survive and thrive in the concrete jungle of New York, Hip-Hop had a massive influence on my life, giving me the space and community to explore my creativity and amplify the voice of my pain and purpose,” he said. “The difficult decisions of my life have shaped me into the person I am today, steadfast in my desire to build a better life for the people of Belize and humanity.

“By bringing my story to audiences, I hope to inspire them to find the indomitable spirit within so they can overcome all adversities and be the best version of themselves positively impacting their part of humanity with their unique footprint as I have done through music, faith, and public service.”

Ice Spice Explains Why She Basically “Lives” In Hotel Rooms

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: News

Ice Spice recently sat down for an interview with Variety in which she explained why she spends a lot of her time in hotel rooms.

“The truth is, I’m everywhere,” she said. “I’m constantly moving,” she said. “I’m always moving because people are starting to notice me a lot, and things get weird and creepy really quickly. But I mostly be staying in hotel rooms; that’s really where I live.”

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Elsewhere in the interview, Ice Spice talked about why she prefers to keep her inner circle small.

“I like the core people to be my producer [RiotUSA],” she said. “Any type of obstacles we face we try to get over, because I don’t want to start over with somebody.”

Ice Spice, real name Isis Naija Gaston, shared she’s inspired by stars who have close and consistent relationships with the people they work with.

“And I kind of look up to people like Taylor working with Jack Antonoff, and Billie Eilish with her brother, Finneas,” she added. “People like that, it’s super cool to me when there’s a team and there’s some consistency there.”

The rapper noted that her manager, James Rosemond Jr., helps her to filter out the requests she receives from people who want to work with her.

Juice WRLD Estate & Producer Dr. Luke Hit With Federal Copyright Infringement Lawsuit

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

Producer Dr. Luke and the Juice WRLD estate have been hit with a lawsuit from artist PD Beats, according to Digital Music News. PD Beats, also known as Pierre Orpheus DeJournette, claims he produced “key elements” of their hit song “Not Enough.” Because of his contribution, PD Beats believes he should get residuals of the 2021 song, which was released two years after Juice WRLD’s death.

The producer’s lawyers filed his federal lawsuit on Tuesday (October 17) in a California court.

“Defendants have released, marketed, distributed, and monetized the subject song without accrediting or providing PD Beats his proportional share of the revenue,” the lawsuit stated. “Defendants have failed to meaningfully respond, necessitating this action.”

Per the complaint, the producer should’ve been credited as co-writer of the track. On the flipside, Dr. Luke and Juice WRLD’s estate maintain he didn’t work on the composition in a way that warrants him to participate in any revenue share.

The lawyers representing PD Beats said their client was key to the song being hot, breaking down the specifics of what he did on the project. As they explained, PD Beats was responsible for all of the “original guitar, performance, and production” and “writing the beats and programming the 808s” (the Roland TR-808 drum machine)” on “Not Enough.” They add the song would lack “key elements that form the basis of the subject song’s audience appeal” without PD Beats’ contributions.

PD Beats maintains he was credited as a co-writer in certain versions of the song’s credits, although the lawsuit doesn’t specify which versions or where to find them. PD Beats is seeking a judicial declaration of co-ownership and requests a court-ordered revenue accounting for the song. If that’s done, he demands equal ownership of the copyrights.

Just Face It—The Biebers Are Goals & Hailey’s Mantra On Matching Outfits Proves It

By: Devon JeffersonCategory: Rumors

If you haven’t noticed by now, Hailey and Justin Bieber are famous—like damn near Taylor Swift famous. Hailey’s latest feature for GQ has seemingly proven the aforementioned while also highlighting yet another factor adding to the monolithic lore of their relationship. Of course, there’s a sultry photoshoot accompanying Hailey’s new interview in which she discussed her own meteoric rise to fame as a supermodel, brand owner and entrepreneur.

Additionally, Hailey went on to discuss her and Justin’s shared stardom as husband and wife—and the idea they are a mismatched, match made in heaven. Yes, Hailey had time today for all you haters in the comments of her photos saying her and Biebs never match.

“It’s so funny because I see so many people talk about this…,” Hailey said in part. “He may want to wear baggy sweats to dinner, and I might want to wear a tiny little dress just because that’s how I’m feeling. We can’t sit there and be like, ‘So I’m going to wear this and you’re going to wear this.’”

Ladies, I humbly ask that you keep this same energy with your man, because honestly, the coordinated fits are getting kind of played out. I get it, we got Hypbeast and Hypebae over here gunning for couple of the year in matching Panda Dunks and Balenciaga t-shirts—but at the same time, that s### kinda tacky. Let your man express himself, even if that means he’s rocking a bedazzled Spongebob shirt. CLAIM YO LOVE!

Also, eat your heart out Selena Gomez fans! JK! That was uncalled for, Miss Gomez is thriving right now let me G###.

Ice Cube Initiates Federal Investigation Into NBA Over “Interference” With His Big3 League

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

Ice Cube has reportedly filed a federal lawsuit against the NBA. The N.W.A legend alleges the league has purposely interfered with Big3’s growth. According to TMZ Sports, the Justice Department is taking the complaint seriously and has been investigating the claims for months.

Earlier this year, Ice Cube and Big3 co-founder Jeff Kwatinetz accused the league of interfering with sponsorship deals, broadcasting negotiations with networks and implementing rules that restrict players from competing in the Big3, even though there are no overlapping seasons and they could play in other leagues.

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Ice Cube’s lawyers say they believe the basketball brand has been “unfairly targeted by the NBA.” But Mike Bass, a spokesperson for the NBA, says that’s absolutely “not true.”

“We have been supportive of the Big3 since its inception, but we declined to invest,” he said.

Should the NBA be found guilty of any antitrust violations, it will be tasked by the U.S. Department of Justice and mandated to pay a hefty fine.

Despite Ice Cube’s concerns about NBA interference, the Big3 league is still growing, albeit at a slower pace.

“We’re thrilled to see this continued interest and growth as we start season six,” Ice Cube said. “It’s a testament to the highly competitive and entertaining product we put on the court each week. This season is the best yet.”

Conway The Machine & Outlawz’s Young Noble —”Grow Through It”

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: Music

Critically acclaimed producer K-Salaam is back with a brand new bag, a new production partner, J.Dot.L, and a who’s who list of collaborators to close out the year.

The first offering from this new partnership brings the team of Conway the Machine and The Outlawz’s Young Noble together for a tale about surviving life’s many adversities called “Grow Through It.”

Against an impressive backdrop of soulful chord progressions, aggressive drums and complex arrangements the two lyricists wax poetic about weathering each storm, punctuated by a notable dose of turntable gymnastics.

“S### is fire, as you can expect.” Conway boasts of the release. “You (know) the names involved. It’s just that pain.” he continues. “Talking about how sometimes life comes at you from different directions but it’s a lesson it it all. You just gotta grow through that.”

Canadian-born, Minneapolis-raised producer, turntablist, and educator, K-Salaam is no stranger to the music media.

Along with his long-time partner, Beatnick, K-Salaam has produced for a who’s who list of critically acclaimed wordsmiths including Lil Wayne, Tech N9ne, Bun B, Freddie Gibbs, Smif N Wessun, Fashawn, Freeway, Nas (mixtape track), Dead Prez, Papoose, Lowkey, Talib Kweli, K’naan, and reggae artists such as Capleton, Sizzla, Luciano, Buju Banton, Junior Reid, Collie Buddz , Anthony B, and other artists of various genres: Keane, Trey Songz, Hollywood Undead, Femi Kuti, MayDay!, and many more.

The duo also famously did sound design for Lauryn Hill. – Creating custom-made synth sounds & samples for the keyboard player and drummer for her live shows. They also scored the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro via NBC, and their music was featured in “Fortnite,” as part of their Virtual Soundwave Series Concert (2022).

K-Salaam’s production skills and expertise are sought after by music professionals throughout the world (Vice TV [ Sao Paulo] New York’s Scratch Academy, Berklee College of Music, etc. He also has his own custom beatmaking class at Clive Davis School of Recorded Music in New York City, and teaches full-time at the Music Production & Audio Engineer Program (MTD) at Douglas College in Vancouver, BC.

Now teaming up with Las Vegas-based J.Dot.L., a skilled producer, songwriter, and audio engineer in his own right; the duo is ready to reveal their new creations alongside a roster of exceptional artists, starting off with Conway the Machine and Young Noble (Outlawz).

LeBron James, Peyton Manning & The Obamas To Produce NBA Docuseries

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

Netflix provided football fans a behind-the-scenes look into the world of quarterbacks. NBA fans could see their version of the Quarterback docuseries with an upcoming show from LeBron James, Peyton Manning, Barack Obama and Michelle Obama.

According to reports, 4-time NBA champion LeBron James and 2-time Super Bowl champion Peyton Manning are in talks with the former President of the United States and former First Lady for the unscripted program.

Manning’s Omaha Productions produced Quarterback for Netflix along with NFL Films and 2PM Productions. Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs), Kirk Cousins (Minnesota Vikings), and Marcus Mariota (Atlanta Falcons) appeared in the 8-episode series.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xlXTW5CuPY

In addition to Quarterback, Netflix has also streamed the sports-focused Formula 1: Drive to Survive, Break Point, Full Swing and Wrestlers. LeBron James’ SpringHill Company and the Obamas’ Higher Ground Productions have also been attached to the presently unnamed NBA docuseries.

The list of Higher Ground Productions-backed content includes American Factory, Becoming, We the People and The Michelle Obama Podcast. The American Factory film won Best Documentary Feature at the 92nd Academy Awards in 2020.

SpringHill Company previously presented series such as Starz’s Survivor’s Remorse and Netflix’s The Playbook. Lebron James also heads back to the basketball court when the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2023-2024 NBA season kicks off tonight (October 24).

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JT Fires Back At “Bandwagon” Fan For Making Fun Of City Girls’ Low Album Sales

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

The City Girls were one of the hottest rap acts for a minute. However, it seems the duo of Yung Miami and JT have lost some momentum with the general public.

According to unconfirmed reports, the City Girls’ third official album, RAW, will open with only 6,000-8,000 first-week units. The final numbers for the Billboard 200 chart will be revealed next week.

The low sales projections had online fans and haters debating the current popularity of the Miami natives. One person even called JT “miss bubbling under HOT100,” a reference to the Billboard chart that ranks songs that have not yet charted on the main Hot 100.

“I ain’t the only artist seen this chart & won’t be the last so I don’t get the joke self-proclaimed IT boy,” JT responded. Apparently, the person who runs the @kkashkkam X account is a long-time City Girls supporter, which led to JT firing another shot at the person.

The “No Bars” rapper then tweeted, “It be exactly like this! Bandwagon asf, probably don’t even know what bubbling under is. But wannabe Twitter cool. Y’all been giving me hell since I came home, I’m glad I ain’t easy to break!”

In addition, JT seemed to be content with RAW (an acronym for Real Ass W#####) possibly only moving around 6,000 units in its first week of release. She also posted, “I appreciate every single 6k of the [people] that purchased.”

RAW features Lil Durk, Muni Long, Juicy J, Usher and Kim Petras. Previously, City Girls secured their highest Billboard 200 chart entry when the City on Lock studio LP peaked at No. 29 in 2020. JT’s “No Bars” made the Bubbling Under chart but failed to enter the Hot 100.

Kevin Gates Catches Heat For Not Making His Daughter Wear A Seatbelt: “I Don’t Raise P######”

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

Some people online have an issue with one of Kevin Gates’s latest Instagram posts. Gates had no problem addressing the backlash.

The Baton Rouge-bred rapper shared a video of himself teaching his ten-year-old daughter, Islah, how to drive. That brief IG clip generated a lot of responses from other social media users.

“When you love what you have – you have everything you need,” wrote Gates in the caption. “These moments are the ones worth more than anything to a father, #islah says I’m a pretty 😎 cool dad – I love you all #onlythegeneralstour #alhamdulillah.”

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Several Instagram commenters pointed out that Islah did not have a seatbelt on while driving behind the wheel of the vehicle. One of those people got a response from Kevin Gates.

“This cool and all but bra put her seatbelt on,” commented the @tone_blessedsc account in response to the video of Islah. Kevin Gates fired back in his own comment section by posting, “I don’t raise [p######].”

Throughout his career as a public figure, Kevin Gates faced negative reactions to his words and actions on several occasions. For example, the “2 Phones” performer raised eyebrows in January for admitting he enjoys drinking his partner’s urine.

NLE Choppa Announces New Project Following “Missing” Reports

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

While some of NLE Choppa’s fans expressed concern that he supposedly went missing, the 20-year-old rapper prepared to release a brand new body of work.

Reports of NLE Choppa (born Bryson LaShun Potts) disappearing spread across the internet. His mother put out a statement seeking help to find him. Angeleta Potts stated that she had not heard from her son for hours at the time of her message.

“He plans on moving back to Cottonwood where we worked hard to get out of just for a mixtape SMH!” wrote Angeleta Potts on Instagram. She also added, “One thing I’ve always known about my son [is] he doesn’t go ghost for any reason.”

However, Choppa took to Instagram to shut down the rumors about his alleged disappearance. An Instagram Story post by the Cottonwood 2 album creator presented his side of the highly-publicized situation.

“I appreciate y’all showing concern but the missing narrative isn’t cool, especially knowing that people really do go missing [every day],” declared Choppa. “I took a little time to myself to get back to my roots, but trust I’m all good. Apologies to anyone that was worried.”

Apparently, NLE Choppa is ready to move on from the incident. In fact, the Warner Records artist announced a new EP will arrive on DSPs this Friday, October 27. A recent Instagram caption read, “He Back, Don’t Get Scared Now… #oldchoppa.”

The Cottonwood 2 studio LP dropped on April 14 of this year. Choppa’s current discography also contains projects such as 2020’s Top Shotta album, 2020’s From Dark to Light mixtape and 2020’s Me vs. Me mixtape.

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Lil Wayne’s “Young Money Radio” Set To Return For Season 2

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

Young Money Records founder Lil Wayne will once again take over Apple Music for his own broadcast. Season two of the BMI Icon Award recipient’s Young Money Radio debuts later this week.

According to Apple Music, the long-awaited return of Young Money Radio takes place on Friday, October 27 at 12 pm PT. New episodes will air bi-weekly after the S2 premiere.

Lil Wayne will present exclusive DJ mixes on his program. In addition, Young Money Radio will include special guest appearances from the worlds of music, sports and comedy. 

A teaser video for Young Money Radio features 2 Chainz. The Atlanta-bred rapper partnered with Wayne for the upcoming Welcome 2 ColleGrove project which is scheduled to drop on November 17.

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“In the industry, Wayne’s known to be a ‘unicorn’ and you don’t see unicorns — he’s not always ‘outside,’” stated Wayne’s manager, Mack Maine, in a 2020 interview about the launch of YMR.

Mack Maine also said, “If we can bring people of different walks of life together in this one place, you can help them get a breather from everything that’s going on.”

The first season of Young Money Radio highlighted conversations with Travis Scott, Lil Baby, Drake, Eminem, Lil Durk, Jamie Foxx, Mike Tyson, Nicki Minaj, Usher, 50 Cent, Chris Brown and more.

U.K. Drill Artist Digga D Becomes Youngest Rapper To Headline London’s Iconic Royal Albert Hall 

By: London JennnCategory: News

Digga D has made history with his performance at the famous Royal Albert Hall in London. 

The “Pump 101” hitmaker headlined a sold-out show at the iconic venue on Monday night (October 23), making him the youngest rapper to do so, according to the landmark’s official website. Digga D 

 also hosted a workshop tailored for young musicians before debuting on the Royal Albert Hall main stage.  

One video from the event caused concern among fans who believed Digga D had been arrested. A clip surfaced online appearing to show cops hauling the West Londoner offstage in handcuffs. 

However, concertgoers assured that the “arrest” was part of the act, likely referring to the harsh condition of the rapper’s Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO). The order, the first of its kind in the U.K., restricts who he can see, where he can go, and what he can rap about. Digga D must submit lyrics to the Metropolitan Police within 24 hours of release. 

Other footage from the event shows Digga D rocking the crowd with a string of previous hits.  

Meanwhile, Digga D recently reflected on his journey from street life to headlining the Royal Albert Hall.  

“I’ve spent most my teenage years in jail or on tag,” he shared on his Instagram Story. I used to do 24hr shifts and sleep in blocks. Everyone in grove will tell you that nobody wanted this s### more than me.” 

He shared his joy at transforming his life “for the better” and promised to “break records,” while continuing to drop “authentic” music.  

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Yung Miami Slams Haters Over City Girls’ “RAW” Album Sales Projections 

By: London JennnCategory: News

Yung Miami is hitting back at her haters. The City Girls rapper took to Twitter Monday (October 23) to share a selfie with her followers. While many fans praised her good looks and facial features in the replies, one troll decided to shade Yung Miami.  

“6-9k first week,” they wrote, referring to first-week sales projections for City Girls’ latest album, RAW.

Yung Miami fired back with a jab of her own, flipping the criticism levied against her in the past: “That’s good for a b#### who voice y’all hate and can’t rap.”  

Earlier in the day, Yung Miami told her haters to “Keep my name out y’all mouth” and warned she was keeping receipts.  

“All of a sudden everybody hate me, but I’m bookmarking everything,” she wrote. “I love to make a b#### eat they words!” 

City Girls’ new album RAW (an acronym for “Real Ass W#####”) is expected to move between 6,000 and 8,000 album-equivalent units in the first week, a drop from 2020’s City on Lock, which sold around 19,000 in the same period.  

In a recent interview, Yung Miami explained how she copes with the negative attention fame brings. 

“You just learn to deal with being a public figure. You know what comes with it as far as criticism, trending, people talking about you—it’s become natural,” Yung Miami told Elle. “It’s like an everyday part of your life. Everyday somebody’s gonna wake up and tweet about you; you’re a celebrity, you’re famous. It’s just one of those things, which is, if you get it, you get it. It don’t really faze us.” 

Lil Wayne Reacts To Viral Waxwork After It Was Dragged On Social Media  

By: London JennnCategory: News

Lil Wayne has spoken! 

The Young Money Records founder has shared his thoughts on a wax replica of him commissioned by The Hollywood Wax Museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. While the figure has been on display since last year, videos of the waxwork have recently been doing the rounds on social media.  

The clip has gone viral, with people unimpressed by the Lil Wayne waxwork, which features the rapper bare-chested in an arms outstretched pose, displaying his tattoos.  

“Tory Lanez escaping and posing as a Lil Wayne wax figure wasn’t on my bingo card,” one person joked, while another likened the figure to Trippie Redd. “Wax Statue Weezy Look like Trippie Redd dressed as Lil Wayne for Halloween.” 

Others saw the creation as an insult.  

“That Lil Wayne wax figure is so damn disrespectful lmfaoooo,” another person stated. ‘And why they did his hair like that?!?!! N#### had nice dreads they didn’t always look like they’re deteriorating. 

Meanwhile, Lil Wayne caught wind of the attention his waxwork received. He took to X (formerly Twitter) Monday (October 23) to weigh in on the viral video and he’s not impressed.  

“Sorry wax museum but dat s### ain’t me!” he said before praising the museum for attempting. “You tried tho and I appreciate the effort.” 

Meanwhile, earlier this week, another museum promised to fix a whitewashed waxwork of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.  

He took to social media to request the Grevin Museum in Paris, France update his figure “with some important details and improvements — starting with my skin color.” 

The museum told Deadline they would “remedy it as quickly as possible.” 

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Co-Executive Producers Pharrell, Timbaland and Swizz Beatz Heap Praise On Busta Rhymes Upcoming Album “Blockbusta” 

By: London JennnCategory: News

Busta Rhymes is gearing up for the release of his upcoming album with a video featuring the project’s legendary executive producers, Pharrell Williams, Timbaland and Swizz Beatz. 

Back in May, the team of Hip-Hop Icons revealed they were cooking up some new music. In their latest announcement, Busta Rhymes confirms a Black Friday release for Blockbusta with a video featuring all four heavyweights. 

“This project right here is executive produced by the f###### committee,” Swizz Beatz declared. “Pharrell the Pharaoh, Timbo the King, Swizz Beatz the student.” 

Timbaland then thanked Busta for the opportunity to create with him. “I’m so grateful that you chose me to be a part of your legacy,” he added before calling the album “timeless.”  

Meanwhile, Skateboard P heaped praise on Bus-A-Bus. “You genuinely feel illuminated. This illumination is good because I believe people gon’ be able to get and feel that,” Pharrell added. 

Busta Rhymes is set to release Blockbusta on November 24. Check out the clip below. 

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The album follows Busta Rhymes’ last solo studio offering, Extinction Level Event 2: The Wrath of God. The Billboard 200 Top. 10 hit included an impressive cast of guest features, including Eminem, Kendrick Lamar, Mariah Carey, Anderson .Paak, Q-Tip, Rick Ross, Mary J. Blige, Rapsody, Ol’ Dirty Bastard, Rakim, Pete Rock, Vybz Kartel and more.  

Busta Rhymes promised Blockbusta would “shift the culture” and warned the Hip-Hop icons were just heating up.  

“Wait till they hear how we are going to SHIFT THE CULTURE with this album,” he said in May. “It’s been an incredible process doing this every step of the way with you Kings and we ain’t Stoppin’ NO TIME SOON!! I’m a leave it at that!! Maximum love King!! Y’all better start rethinking all types a s###!!”