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Macklemore Calls Israel-Gaza War “Genocide”

The ongoing Israel–Hamas war has become one of the most polarizing political topics in the world, and Macklemore has decided to offer his thoughts on the extremely dangerous situation.

On Thursday (October 19), Macklemore posted a lengthy message on his Instagram page about the Middle East turmoil. The 40-year-old Grammy winner blatantly denounced the Hamas terrorist attack in Israel. In addition, he criticized the Israeli government for its treatment of Palestinian civilians.

“I have been in fear,” he began. “I have felt a literal lump in my throat and I cannot stay silent any longer. I condemn the murder of any human. The bombings, kidnappings and murder of the Israeli people carried out by Hamas was horrific in every way imaginable.”

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A post shared by BEN (@macklemore)

Furthermore, the Ben album creator called on both sides to agree to a ceasefire. Macklemore also suggested the United States is responsible for some of the casualties by backing Israel’s bombing and blockade efforts in the Gaza Strip.

“We are witnessing an unfolding genocide in Palestine at this very moment,” he continued. “A U.S.-backed human catastrophe in front of our eyes. Gaza is being demolished. Well over 1 million people have lost their homes. Schools, hospitals, places of worship obliterated.”

On October 7, Hamas militants conducted a coordinated surprise offensive inside Israel. Reports claim the attacks killed around 1,400 Israelis, including 260 people at a music festival near the Gaza border. Over 4,000 Gaza residents have reportedly lost their lives since the start of this latest round in a decades-old fight.

“By no means am I an expert on this conflict,” Macklemore concluded. “I am relatively new to this and learning as I go. [There are] 75 years of Palestinian occupation and deeply rooted pain on both sides, stemming back far before I was born. But there is no side to take when it comes to our collective human spirit. We all have a voice and a platform to stand for what is right and just. Even if it’s a one-on-one conversation with someone.”

Blueface Says He Saw Megan Thee Stallion’s Wounded Feet After Tory Lanez Shooting

There are still some people who express skepticism that Tory Lanez actually shot Megan Thee Stallion in the feet. “Thotiana” rapper Blueface is now claiming he got to see the physical aftermath from that 2020 incident.

The latest episode of Adam22’s No Jumper podcast features an interview with Blueface and his partner Jaidyn Alexis. At one point during the conversation, Blueface spoke about his alleged experiences with Megan Thee Stallion around the time of the shooting.

“When she got shot, I sent her a message, like, ‘Hey, you okay?’ We chopped it up, mixed and mingled,” recalled Blueface. When asked about Meg’s supposed injured feet, Blue responded, “I didn’t examine them. I seen them. It seemed like something occurred. I ain’t gonna say it looked like she got shot in the foot.”

In addition, Blueface said he received oral sex from Megan Thee Stallion around that time. He also talked about allegedly getting head from the Houston Hottie while sitting down with The Jason Lee Show. Meg has not confirmed nor denied those claims.

Megan Thee Stallion publicly named Tory Lanez as the person who shot her on the night of July 12, 2020. The “WAP” rapper later shared images of her foot injuries. She wanted to dispel the rumors that Lanez never shot her.

In December 2022, a California jury convicted Tory Lanez (born Daystar Peterson) of three felony charges: assault with a semiautomatic handgun, having a loaded and unregistered firearm in a vehicle, and gross negligence in discharging his firearm. A judge sentenced him to 10 years in state prison.

Public figures such as Meek Mill and Iggy Azalea continued to show support for Tory Lanez even after the Sorry 4 What album creator’s assault conviction. Industry insiders like DJ Akademiks and Wack 100 still expressed disbelief that Lanez actually fired a gun at Megan Thee Stallion.

Wale Drops “Max Julien” Single After Signing With Def Jam

Wale has a new label home. The Washington, DC native reportedly inked a deal with Def Jam Recordings.

According to TMZ, Wale signed with Def Jam several months ago. The iconic record company backed a brand new song by the 39-year-old MC born Olubowale Victor Akintimehin.

Wale’s “Max Julien” single arrived on October 20. The D-Woo-produced track sampled Missy Elliott’s “I’ve Changed (Interlude)” featuring Lil Mo from the 2001 album Miss E… So Addictive.

Wale first broke onto the mainstream music scene under the Interscope Records umbrella. His debut album, Attention Deficit, dropped in November 2009. That album failed to break into the Billboard 200’s Top 20.

After moving over to Warner Bros. Records, 2011’s Ambition became Wale’s first Top 5 entry on the Billboard 200 by landing at No. 2. He then scored back-to-back Number Ones with 2013’s The Gifted and 2015’s The Album About Nothing.

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A post shared by Wale (@wale)

The Every Blue Moon founder also built his personal brand as part of Rick Ross’s Maybach Music Group alongside Meek Mill, Stalley and others. MMG put out three Self Made compilations between 2011 and 2013.

Folarin II is Wale’s most recent full-length solo LP. That 2021 project was released through Every Blue Moon, Maybach Music Group and Warner Records. Folarin II peaked at No. 22 on the Billboard 200 chart.

NLE Choppa Reacts To Fans Saying He Fell Off

NLE Choppa released his second studio album, Cottonwood 2, in April 2023. The Warner Records-backed project hosted the successful singles “S### Me Out” and “Do It Again” featuring 2Rare.

Despite NLE Choppa scoring Top 40 hits and picking up Gold plaques, some X users believe the Memphis-bred rapper has fallen off. He responded to the online gripes in his own tweets.

“Folks pissing me off. What NLE y’all watching bug beg it up 😤,” posted Choppa in response to an “NLE fell off” tweet sent out on October 13, 2022. The 20-year-old also had more to say on the platform.

Another tweet from 2022 called for the “old” NLE to return. Choppa addressed that request this week. He fired back, “Y’all keep asking for old NLE like the music I ain’t been giving y’all recently ain’t getting plaques!”

“I’m tryna grow as [an] artist but y’all want me backtracking on BS. But bet that up. I’m on straight dirt y’all got me f##### up. One of the most streamed artists this year BUT BET,” he concluded.

In addition to earning Gold certification for “Do It Again” in May, NLE Choppa also received a 3x-Platinum Award in June for his contribution to 2020’s “Go Stupid” with Polo G, Stunna 4 Vegas and Mike WiLL Made-It

That same month, the RIAA certified Choppa’s 2020 debut album, Top Shotta, as Platinum. Back in August of this year, he declared, “I’M THE GREATEST. Y’ALL COUNTED ME OUT, NOW THEY LOST COUNT. I DO THIS TIME AND TIME AGAIN, HIT AFTER HIT, SONG AFTER SONG. DON’T PLAY WITH ME.” 

Timbaland Says Rick Ross And Meek Mill’s Upcoming “Masterpiece” Album Is “What We Been Missing”  

Timbaland has heard Rick Ross and Meek Mill’s upcoming joint album and believes they are sitting on a “classic.” 

The legendary producer opened up about the album while discussing the current state of Hip-Hop. According to Timbaland, Rick Ross and Meek Mill’s Too Good To Be True collab project is “what we been missing.” 

Timbo shared his thoughts during a recent appearance on Miami radio station 99JAMZ. He called the project a “masterpiece” due to Meek and Rozay doing what they do best rather than trying to emulate a new sound.  

“Ross giving you that Big Meech Ross,” he revealed. “And that’s all we want. We don’t want Ross to sound like Uzi Vert.” 

He continued, “That album says a lot to me because Meek is being Meek, whether you like it or not. It’s not dated, it sounds current, it sounds fresh, and it sounds like a classic. And you could tell the space they in, I don’t even need to talk to him and ask what space he in, you can hear it through the music.” 

Check out the clip below. 

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A post shared by 99JAMZ (@99jamzmiami)

The Maybach Music duo shared the second single from Too Good To Be True Friday (October 20.) “Lyrical Eazy” follows the previously released track “SHAQ & KOBE.” Watch the video below.  

Rick Ross, Meek Mill – Lyrical Eazy

Meek Mill and Rick Ross announced a fall release date for Too Good To Be True. A trailer, which includes cameos from Diddy and DJ Khaled, reveals the album is set to drop on November 10. 

“Nigas ain’t seen me or Ross around each other for a long time,” Meek said in the trailer. “We got back to the business, straight back to the family, love, and jumped right back in the studio immediately. So, y’all about to get that live and direct and what happens. Tune in.” 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CygPbDGOF2x/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Cardi B Has No Regrets After Wishing Death On Fan Who Questioned Her Work Ethic  

Cardi B says she doesn’t regret cursing out a Twitter user who said the “Bongos” rapper doesn’t work hard, explaining she clapped back after feeling overwhelmed.  

Earlier this week, Cardi B responded to a troll who branded her “the only Mexican I know that don’t work hard.” She fired back with “Hope you and ur mom die.” 

When another user warned karma would “come back on you,” Cardi B replied, “IDGAF F### y’all … y’all can call me Mexican, bring me down and hurt my feelings talk s### about everything that’s why I don’t release music.” 

Cardi then added a concerning follow-up tweet, writing, “I just want to put a bullet in my head.” 

https://twitter.com/olwestside/status/1714507719112056949?s=20

Cardi B Denies Being Suicidal

However, in an Instagram Live Thursday (October 19), Cardi B denied feeling suicidal, claiming she snapped after becoming overwhelmed by online hate. 

“When I burst, I’m very outspoken,” she explained. “When have one of my bad moments, I will literally get her and curse out everybody, and f###### be like, ‘I want you to die. B####, I wanna die. I don’t give a f###!’ Because that’s just how I’ll be feeling in the moment.”  

She continued: “I was just very overwhelmed yesterday. I was very sad. And, I don’t know — I feel like I was just having such a good week, and then, when I got home, and I started paying attention to so much s### that people were saying about me, and all the funny s### about me … I just started getting upset about it.” 

Check out the clip below and watch the full live at the end of the page.  

https://twitter.com/dabaddieog_/status/1714950665733033989?s=20

Elsewhere during the livestream, Cardi B said she has no qualms about cursing out internet trolls.  

“I don’t regret it,” she added. “Yeah I have bad days. All bad b###### have bad days, b####. Don’t take my vulnerable moments to make it a he-he moment.” 

Lil Wayne & 2 Chainz Share “Presha” Single & “Welcome 2 ColleGrove” Release Date 

Lil Wayne and 2 Chainz have released “Presha,” the first single from their upcoming joint album, Welcome 2 ColleGrove

Snippets of the single surfaced online earlier this week after Wayne teased the track on Discord. Hours before release, the duo shared a photo album of throwback pics of their friendship over the years. Check out the photos and watch the “Presha” lyric video below. 

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

2 Chainz, Lil Wayne – Presha

The duo is expected to perform the song live for the first time on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon this Friday. 

According to the Welcome 2 ColleGrove pre-release on Apple Music, the highly anticipated collaborative project is slated for release on November 17 via Def Jam Records. The joint LP follows Tity Boi’s 2016 project ColleGrove, which included eight Weezy features. The title is a mash-up of 2 Chainz’ hometown (College Park, Georgia) and Lil Wayne’s hometown (Hollygrove, Louisiana). 

The pair have already shot some visuals for the highly anticipated Welcome 2 ColleGrove. 2 Chainz opened up about reuniting with Lil Wayne during an interview with The Source last month.  

“We’ve already shot two visuals, the photo shoot is over,” he explained. “We’re in the process now of mastering records. All the records are mixed, so it’ll be coming soon. I’m so excited about it and I’ve been talking about it so long. I’m anxious at this point, to try to get it to the fans’ ears. Hear some of the hard work, and the blood, sweat, and tears that me and my brother put into this project.” 

Yung Bleu Says “I’m Completely Innocent” After Arrest For Allegedly Body-Slamming Woman  

Yung Bleu has spoken out following his arrest for misdemeanor battery after allegedly body-slamming a woman during a dispute, claiming he’s “completely innocent.” 

The “You’re Mines Still” hitmaker was reportedly arrested on Sunday (October 15) and spent a few days in jail. 

On Thursday evening (October 20) Yung Bleu took to Instagram with a statement declaring his innocence. He told his followers he would soon own his masters and has launched “a recording, Marketing distribution, media, and film company,” out of a “2 million dollar facility,” he built himself. “So y’all [know] the storm coming. The FAKE NEWS, the slander.”  

He continued, “I’m off this internet thing but I will take the time to tell all my ladies that may be a fan of Bleu, I cherish women and I’m completely innocent. Just [know] this about to be one of toughest times to be a fan of mine because I’m about to go into another bracket as an OWNER and entrepreneur and people hate and you [know] THEY hate that.” Read his statement below.  

Authorities charged Yung Bleu with misdemeanor battery after a woman claimed he attacked her during an argument at her home, according to TMZ. The woman claims a confrontation occurred after Yung Bleu showed up unannounced to pick up a 10-year-old child.  

She told Hall County Sheriff’s Office Bleu picked her up and threw her to the ground. He then left with the child but returned to the residence a short time later. He then left for a second time before authorities arrived.  

The woman claimed she suffered injuries to her hip and right arm during the altercation. She refused to be taken to a hospital.

A Bit Of Positivity: Singer Koryn Hawthorne Crafts A Classic With Media Mogul Munson Steed

Munson Steed, the publisher and proprietor of Rolling Out Magazine, recently collaborated on a gospel song with recording artist Koryn Hawthorne, which they released on September 15. This moving track showcases the talents of Koryn Hawthorne, a finalist from Season 8 of The Voice, who graces it with her remarkable multi-octave range.

Steed shared the story of how this song came to life and his aspiration to create more music. He expressed, “This song had been on my heart for years, and I feel truly blessed to have connected with a vocalist like Koryn Hawthorne who breathed life and love into it. I hope this song offers encouragement to everyone who listens, and I eagerly anticipate crafting more inspirational music.”

Koryn Hawthorne herself expressed her admiration for the song and gratitude for the many moments in her life where she can say, “Look at God.” She commented, “‘Look at God’ couldn’t be a more perfect song for me. I’ve experienced so many ‘look at God’ moments in my life, and I’m incredibly thankful. Working with Charles in the studio was a fantastic experience, and collaborating with Munson was a true blessing. I’m thrilled that the song and the video are now available for the world to hear and see. I encourage everyone to download it and watch the video. Look at God!”

Charles Jenkins, who co-wrote the song with Munson Steed, brought Koryn Hawthorne on board after hearing Steed’s vision for the project. Jenkins shared, “When Munson first pitched me the idea, we were sitting outside a restaurant in Chicago. I had tears in my eyes, and I knew it was a gem. I’m truly honored that he allowed me to collaborate on this hit and to executive produce this special moment. Now my superstar friend Koryn Hawthorne is sharing it with the world, receiving rave reviews.”

Take a listen below.

Lil Reese Was Not Shot

There was a powerful rumor that Chicago drill rap legend Lil Reese was shot six times. It was like a wave across the internet. But, before I could even get to it, it was squashed! Within an hour or so, there were several posts and reports shooting it down. No pun intended. Shout out to Lil Reese for being alive and well.

Lil Reese’s sister stepped up and squashed the rumors! You can tell she did not want any parts of the trash in circulation.

“Before y’all keep dm me and steady calling and texting me it’s nothing wrong with my brother that sh#t so old ppl just weird as hell out here!!! But y’all heard it from me he’s good at home with his feet up now I’m back off this sh#t!!!”

Of course, the internet had the jokes.





https://twitter.com/UpThaDraco/status/1715176800404349285

Shout out to all the POS fake blogs and media that posted he was dead or shot without a shred of evidence.

MTV EMA’s Scrapped Over Security Concerns Because Of The Israel-Hamas War 

The annual MTV EMA’s has been called off as a result of security concerns due to the “volatility of world events,” the organizers have confirmed.

The ceremony was scheduled for Sunday, November 5, in Paris. Taylor Swift led nominees for the event with seven nods, including Best Artist, Best Song, and Best Video. 

She is followed closely by Olivia Rodrigo and SZA, with six nominations each.

“Given the volatility of world events, we have decided not to move forward with the 2023 MTV EMAs out of an abundance of caution for the thousands of employees, crew members, artists, fans, and partners who travel from all corners of the world to bring the show to life,” a spokesperson for Paramount, which owns MTV, said in a statement.

The spokesperson continued, “The MTV EMAs are an annual celebration of global music. As we watch the devastating events in Israel and Gaza continue to unfold, this does not feel like a moment for a global celebration. With thousands of lives already lost, it is a moment of mourning.”

The organizers have confirmed that the event will return in November 2024.

France is currently on its highest state of alert after a school teacher was murdered and three others injured on October 13 in the northern city of Arras in a suspected Islamist attack.

On Wednesday, October 18, eight airports in France faced security alerts, and multiple were evacuated, according to the DGAC aviation authority. The Palace of Versailles was closed again due to its third security scare in five days.

Last year, the event took place in Duesseldorf, Germany, and was hosted by Oscar-winner Taika Waititi and singer Rita Ora. Taylor Swift dominated, taking home four out of the six awards she was nominated for.

Yung Bleu Accused Of Injuring Woman; Released From Jail After Posting Bond

Yung Bleu landed in jail for allegedly body-slamming a woman during an altercation in Georgia. According to TMZ, he was charged with misdemeanor battery.

The Hall County Sheriff’s Office reportedly received a 911 call from a woman on Sunday (October 15). The woman said Yung Bleu attacked her after the two got into an argument at her home.

Yung Bleu allegedly showed up at her place unannounced. He planned to take a 10-year-old child from the residence, which led to a confrontation. The rapper/singer allegedly picked up the woman and threw her on the ground. She told officers he left with the child before returning and quickly leaving for a second time.

The woman claimed she suffered injuries to her hip and right arm. She did not allow medics to bring her to a hospital.

Yung Bleu, whose real name is Jeremy Biddle, spent a few days in the Hall County Jail following his October 15 arrest. He was released on a $2,400 bond.

Last month, Yung Bleu abruptly canceled his Love Scars Tour. He apologized to fans and promised to perform free shows in all the cities he missed. The tour cancellation was preceded by cheating allegations and a feud with his former mentor Boosie Badazz.

Rick Ross Offers To Distribute Kanye West’s Album After Report Of Labels Backing Off

Rick Ross pitched Maybach Music Group as a potential distributor for Kanye West’s next project on Thursday (October 19). The MMG boss proposed a deal following a report about Ye seeking distribution for a new album.

“Imagine if Ye came and allowed MMG to distribute his new project,” Rick Ross said on Instagram Stories. “Imagine that. What’s your favorite Rick Ross, Ye collab? Imagine that. Imagine the artistic drive. And I got some amazing ideas for the Yeezy brand. Amazing ideas for the Yeezy brand! Let’s speak.”

Kanye is reportedly shopping a collaborative album with Ty Dolla $ign. According to Billboard, some labels refused to distribute the project due to Ye’s antisemitic remarks.

The antisemitic controversy was not enough to dissuade every label. Billboard’s report said he is considering five offers and expects to make his decision soon.

MMG might be an unlikely destination for Kanye, but Ye and Rick Ross have worked together in the past. The two teamed up for multiple songs, including “Devil in a New Dress” and “Maybach Music 2.”

Rick Ross is currently preparing for the release of a collaborative album with Meek Mill. The duo’s project Too Good To Be True is scheduled to drop in November.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LPnC18X2TZM

Megan Thee Stallion Finally Exits 1501; Settles Lengthy Legal Battle With Label

Megan Thee Stallion secured her release from Carl Crawford’s label 1501 Certified Entertainment. Lawyers revealed the two sides settled their longstanding dispute over her record deal on Thursday (October 19).

Billboard was the first report on the settlement. Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but a rep for 1501 said Megan and the label agreed to part ways.

“Megan Thee Stallion and 1501 Certified Entertainment are pleased to announce that they have mutually reached a confidential settlement to resolve their legal differences,” the rep said. “As part of the arrangement, both parties have agreed to amicably part ways. Both Megan and 1501 are pleased to put this matter behind them and move forward with the next chapter of their respective businesses. All of us at 1501 wish Megan the very best in her life and career.”

Megan signed with 1501 in 2018. Problems arose after she inked a management deal with Roc Nation in 2019.

The rapper sued 1501 in 2020. According to Megan, the label misled her into signing a one-sided deal and blocked the release of her music.

Both parties were embroiled in litigation over the past three years. Megan accused 1501 of refusing to let her out of her contract even though she completed the terms of her agreement with the label. She also asked a judge to appoint a third party to manage the label’s finances over concerns about 1501’s ability to pay any judgment awarded to her in the civil dispute. Crawford claimed she made the request in “bad faith and solely for harassment.”

Megan and 1501 reached a settlement a week after she told fans she was self-funding her next album. The Texas native said she was happy to be an independent artist again. She did not want to sign with a new label while working on the project.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAFPsGRX3ys

Tupac Shakur Murder Case: Lawyer Says Keefe D Intends To Plead Not Guilty

A Nevada judge allowed a second delay of Keefe D’s arraignment in the Tupac Shakur murder case on Thursday (October 19). Keefe D, whose real name is Duane Davis, needed more time to settle his legal representation in the case.

Attorney Ross Goodman appeared with Keefe D in court. Goodman asked Judge Tierra Jones for a continuance, telling the judge he was unable to confirm if he would be Keefe D’s lawyer at Thursday’s hearing.

“I’m going to give you two weeks, but in two weeks, we’ve got to get this case moving,” Judge Jones told Keefe D and Goodman, per the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

Goodman spoke to reporters after the hearing. He said Keefe D plans to plead not guilty to the 1996 murder of Shakur.

Las Vegas police arrested Keefe D on September 29. He was charged with one count of murder with the use of a deadly weapon and with the intent to promote, further or assist a criminal gang.

Prosecutors said Keefe D didn’t shoot Shakur but orchestrated the attack. Authorities accused Keefe D of providing the gun to the shooter, long believed to be his late nephew Orlando Anderson.

Keefe D revealed his involvement in Shakur’s death in a memoir and interviews. Goodman downplayed Keefe D’s admissions.

“If you don’t have a car, if you don’t have a gun, and you don’t have witnesses to corroborate what Mr. Davis said under those circumstances, I believe that there’s an obvious defense to that on why he made those statements,” Goodman contended.

Keefe D remains in custody. Goodman will ask for Keefe D’s release if retained as counsel.

Was Lauryn Hill Super Late—Again? Fans Say So

Lauryn Hill’s anticipated return to Essex County for a Fugees reunion in Newark on Tuesday (October 17) made it a momentous evening. However, her fans were left incensed when she reportedly kept them waiting for more than two hours before gracing the stage.

Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean and Pras took the stage at Newark, New Jersey’s Prudential Center, and I almost went to this. The performance was part of her 25th Anniversary Tour for The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, which kicked off in September.

The show was scheduled to commence at 7:30 p.m., but some concertgoers claimed Hill didn’t appear until nearly 10 p.m. We all know the deal—Ms. Hill has been notorious for her tardiness at performances for years. In fact, she rapped about it in a dope song with Nas.

My awareness like Keanu in The Matrix
I’m savin’ souls and y’all complainin’ ’bout my lateness
Now it’s illegal for someone to walk in greatness
They want the same shh, but they don’t take risks
Now the world will get to see it’s own reflection
And the anointed can pursue their own direction
And if you’re wrong and you’re too proud to hear correction
Walk into the hole you dug yourself, f#ck a projection

One fan said, “What a colossal disappointment tonight at the #laurynhill concert. Horrendous sound… kept waiting over 2 hours before the performance. Plus, we couldn’t even occupy our seats for an hour after the doors opened.”

Another person shared a text message that said, “It was a disappointment. The sound quality was terrible; I couldn’t discern any of the instruments or lyrics for most of the show. She remixed almost every song to the point of being unrecognizable. She sang the songs at a rapid pace, almost as if she was rushing, and omitted significant verses from the songs.”

Some people had jokes.

And some others said that the online chatter wasn’t actually accurate and at the same time…conceding the lateness was all facts.

But mostly, there seemed to be issues. You be the judge.

Lauryn Hill and the Fugees are scheduled to perform next at the Barclays Center in New York on Friday (October 20).

DJ Kool Herc To Host Hip-Hop 50 Jam In Jamaica With Sister Cindy Campbell

DJ Kool Herc and his sister, Cindy Campbell, are heading back to their homeland of Jamaica for a special event honoring 50 years of Hip-Hop. Per Loop News. the siblings are hosting a jam on December 29 and 30 at Plantation Cove in St Ann. The two have asked some of the most prominent figures in Hip-Hop and reggae/dancehall to attend.

“We are inviting the very best, both past and present, from the realms of Hip-Hop and Jamaican music,” Herc said. “We are immensely proud of our Jamaican heritage and want the world to share in our pride.”

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A post shared by Dj Kool Herc (@kooldjherc)

Herc and Campbell’s collective goal is to not only commemorate the 50th anniversary but also use it as a way to show respect to its Jamaican roots. The event follows Kool Herc’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on November 3.

Over the years, Herc has received the prestigious Order of Distinction Commander Class (CD) from the Jamaican Government in recognition of his contributions to the culture.

Herc and Campbell hosted a “Back To School Jam” on August, 11, 1973 at 1520 Sedgwick Ave. in the Bronx, which many consider the birthplace of Hip-Hop.

Lil Uzi Vert Lists California Mansion For Just Under $6 Million

Lil Uzi Vert has come a long way from the Francisville neighborhood of North Philly. In 2021, the chart-topping rapper has purchased his dream house for $4.4 million in 2021. Now, he’s reportedly putting the home on the market. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the five-bedroom, six-bathroom mansion, which has about 7,021 square feet of living space, is located in Bell Canyon, California and encased in glass walls.  The two-story home is set on a 1.35-acre parcel with a long driveway and motor court.

The house is part of the Bell Canyon Homeowners Association (whose motto is “Where country living meets city convenience”), meaning the new owner would have access to the HOA amenities like more than 70 miles of hiking trails, a Cliff May-designed equestrian center, a five-acre private park and tennis courts.

Bell Canyon has been home to a variety of celebrities throughout the years, including Chrissy Metz, Joe Rogan, Niecy Nash, Trey Songz, Alyssa Milano, Jhené Aiko, Holly Marie Combs and Shaquille O’Neal.

Lil Uzi Vert’s latest album, The Pink Tape, claimed the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 chart in July. Check out “Just Wanna Rock” below.

Jeezy Finally Breaks His Silence On Divorcing Jeannie Mai

Jeezy has publicly addressed his decision to divorce Jeannie Mai, his wife of two years. 

The couple, who became parents to a daughter just a year prior, have now chosen separate paths. Jeezy’s poignant statement captures the depth of his emotions and the gravity of the situation.

“The decision to end this chapter in my life was not made impulsively and comes with a heavy heart,” he said per TMZ. “Despite this, my love and respect for Jeannie remains, and the time we spent together holds a cherished place in my heart.”

Jeezy and Jeannie Mai married at their Atlanta residence in March 2021. They welcomed their first child, Monaco, in January 2022. However, the tides turned in September when Jeezy filed for divorce in Fulton County Superior Court. 

The documents revealed the couple had already lived separately for months. Furthermore, they had the foresight to have a prenuptial agreement. Despite the divorce, Jeezy seems adamant about co-parenting and doing what is best for their child.

“Our beautiful daughter is the best gift from our relationship, and I am committed to assuring she feels the love and stability she deserves. During this period, I kindly request that you respect our family’s privacy as we focus on healing,” Jeezy stated. 

Earlier this week, Jeannie Ma took to Instagram to reveal she was taking a break from social media to focus on her mental health so she could “heal” during the separation process. 

“Sometimes, you need to take a break and disconnect, to heal,” her handwritten letter read. 

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A post shared by Jeannie Mai (@thejeanniemai)

Eminem & DJ Premier Mourn The Death Of Legendary Flavor Unit DJ Mark The 45 King

Legendary Bronx DJ Mark The 45 King died on Wednesday (October 18) after celebrating his 62nd birthday just two days prior. While no cause of death has been specified, he had been sick for some time. DJ Premier is among the many paying tribute to the Flavor Unit legend. Moments after learning of his death, Preemo penned a lengthy Instagram caption outlining his many contributions to Hip-Hop culture.

“I never heard of Gang Starr until I heard DJ Red Alert play their 2nd single produced by Mark on 98.7 Kiss in NYC while shopping my demos looking to get a record deal,” he wrote. “Red Alert was playing ‘Bust A Move Boy’ cutting it up crazy and I heard Guru’s voice wondering who the f### is Gang Starr? I immediately went and bought the 12inch single to discover the label Wild Pitch Records. From there my friend Carlos Garza in Houston, TX told Stu Fine who owned Wild Pitch about me and I connected with them in 1988 when Guru was looking for a new DJ and a permanent Producer.

“Mark is responsible for so many classics and was a member of the Iconic Crew FLAVOR UNIT (Queen Latifah, Latee, Chill Rob G., Lakim Shabazz, Double J, Lord Alibaski, DJ Cee Justice, Apache, Naughty By Nature, Freddie Foxxx, Markey Fresh, Rowdy Rahz, Storm P and so many more members beyond whom I’ve mentioned please pardon me if I didn’t post your name).”

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Mark The 45 King (real name Mark Howard James) began making music in the 1980s. His name referred to his ability to make beats using 45 RPM records. After dropping “The 900 Number” in 1987, his big break came two years later when fellow Flavor Unit member Queen Latifah signed with Tommy Boy Records and released All Hail the Queen. The 45 King did extensive production on the album and earned countless accolades for the project. After wrestling with drug addiction throughout the ’90s, he cleaned up his act and produced “Hard Knock Life (Ghetto Anthem)” for Jay-Z in 1998. In 2000, he produced the platinum-certified track “Stan” by Eminem.

DJ Premier added a little context into his passing, revealing he got to talk to The 45 King one last time as he laid in the hospital the day before he died.

“His sound was unlike any other from his heavy drums and his horns were so distinct on every production,” he continued. “He got a huge Warner Bros. deal and remixed the Classic Madonna single ‘Keep It Together’ and the raw remix of Eric. B and Rakim ‘I Know You Got Soul.’ The ‘900 Number’ is a Super Classic, Queen Latifah’s ‘Wrath Of My Madness,’ ‘Ladies First’ w/ Monie Love, Chill Rob G’s ‘Court Is In Session,’ Latee ‘Cuts Got Flavor,’ the Historical Jay-Z hit ‘Hard Knock Life’ and Eminem’s ‘Stan’ to name a few of his catalog will forever ring bells.

“Beyond that, his vinyl releases of breakebeats are beyond any DJ of the 80’s/90’s Era, practically endless.Thanks Dave Lotwin (D & D) for Facetiming me Tuesday in the hospital to salute him 1 last time before he transitioned. I know he heard me loud and clear. Condolences to his brother Mike and his sister. It’s so much more to say but I’ll leave it here. Sleep Peacefully Mark thank you for all that you’ve done. Such a nice person.
You’re such a special part of our culture that is chiseled in the stone of the greatest parts of us. LOVE YOU MARK.”

Eminem also chimed in, tweeting, “Legends are never over. #RIP Mark Howard James aka The 45 King … I’m 4ever grateful!!!”

Van Silk offered an additional detail into his medical condition, telling AllHipHop, “I stayed in touch with him. He will definitely be missed. He is a brother that I have known on his come up. He from the Bronx and started carrying records from Brothers Disco Dj Breakout and Baron which is the family of the original Funky 4. He produced many hits many may not know about, including Jay-Z’s ‘Hard Knock Life.’ His memory was gone. He didn’t remember a lot of things.”

AllHipHop sends our condolences to Mark The 45 King’s loved ones. Find additional reactions below.