Doja Cat’s 2021 studio LP, Planet Her, debuted with more than 109,000 units, so a possible 55,000-unit start for Scarlet seemed extremely low for the mainstream star. However, new projections have been revealed.
HitsDailyDouble now foresees Scarlet moving around 60,000-70,000 first-week units, although that likely won’t be enough for Doja to secure her first No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 chart.
The gold-certified Amala peaked at No. 138 in 2018. 2019’s Hot Pink made it to No. 9 before going 2x-platinum. Planet Her landed at No. 2 and was eventually certified 2x-platinum as well.
Even if Scarlet fails to top the Billboard 200 rankings next week, Doja Cat already secured a No. 1 single from the project. “Paint the Town Red” became the most popular song in America earlier this month.
Scarlet also hosts songs such as “Demons,” “Attention” and “Agora Hills,” which is doing well on the United States-based Spotify streaming chart. “Agora Hills” presently remains in the streamer’s Top 10.
The red carpet is one of the runway shows that almost everyone who’s into fashion looks forward to every year, and there’s always an outfit that steals the show at the end of the day. But it can be more than just clothes, the red carpet has also been a showcase of glamor and style, and one of the key elements that adds to the allure of this star-studded event is the dazzling jewelry worn by the celebrities.
In 2023, the red carpet was once again adorned with a stunning array of jewels, ranging from the elegantly classic to the outrageously eccentric. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best red carpet jewels of 2023 that left us mesmerized.
Elegantly Timeless – The Classics
Elegance knows no bounds, and several celebrities at the 2023 red carpet embraced the timeless beauty of classic jewelry pieces.
Diamonds never go out of style. When it comes to elegance, diamonds reign supreme. Stars like Emma Watson and Charlize Theron graced the red carpet in exquisite diamond necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Emma Watson’s choice of a simple yet stunning diamond choker necklace perfectly complemented her sophisticated look, while Charlize Theron’s diamond drop earrings added a touch of old Hollywood glam to her ensemble.
Here are some lab-diamond ring options that look strikingly similar to the ones that were sported by some of the celebrities on the carpet.
Pearls that are full of grace. Another classic choice that made waves on the red carpet in 2023 was pearls. Jennifer Aniston paired her chic black gown with a string of lustrous pearls that highlighted her natural beauty. Pearls have the unique ability to exude grace and sophistication, making them a timeless choice for any red carpet event.
Bold, Eclectic, and Post-Modern
Not all celebrities stuck to tradition in 2023. Some opted for bold and eclectic pieces that showcased their individuality.
Statement necklaces are back to stay. This turned out to be a huge trend on the red carpet this year. Zendaya, known for her fashion-forward choices, donned a jaw-dropping emerald and amethyst necklace that took center stage in her ensemble. The bold colors and intricate design of her necklace perfectly reflected her fearless style.
Unconventional gemstones took the show to the next level. Some celebrities chose to stand out by wearing jewelry featuring these gemstones. Lady Gaga, a master of eccentricity, sported a sapphire tiara with an oversized pear-shaped pink sapphire as the centerpiece. This avant-garde choice showcased her artistic flair and willingness to push boundaries.
Vintage Vibes with a Touch of Nostalgia
2023 also saw a resurgence of vintage-inspired jewelry on the red carpet.
Art Deco Revival jewelry made a strong comeback, with stars like Margot Robbie and Cate Blanchett embracing the geometric shapes and bold lines of this iconic era. Margot Robbie’s Art Deco diamond and onyx bracelet added a touch of 1920s glamor to her look, while Cate Blanchett’s emerald and diamond earrings were reminiscent of the elegance of the Roaring Twenties.
Victorian elegance came with a touch of old-world charm, with some celebrities choosing Victorian-style jewelry. Kate Winslet, for instance, wore a stunning Victorian-inspired sapphire and diamond brooch that added a touch of regal elegance to her ensemble. This choice showcased her appreciation for history and craftsmanship.
An Eclectic Mix of Metals and Styles
One of the most exciting aspects of the 2023 red carpet was the eclectic mix of styles and influences that celebrities brought to their jewelry choices.
Mixing metals was once considered a fashion faux pas, but is not embraced by many stars this year. Scarlett Johansson combined gold and silver in her statement earrings, demonstrating that rules are meant to be broken when it comes to fashion. The result? A unique and eye-catching look that set her apart on the red carpet.
Bohemian chic jewelry was also a standout trend in 2023. Stars like Zoe Kravitz and Florence Pugh wore jewelry featuring earthy elements like turquoise, feathers, and raw crystals. These pieces added a touch of bohemian chic to their red carpet-looks and showcased their free-spirited personalities.
Concluding thoughts
The best red carpet jewels of 2023 proved that when it comes to jewelry, there are no limits to creativity and expression. From the elegantly timeless to the boldly eccentric and everywhere in between, celebrities used jewelry to enhance their individual styles and make a lasting impression on the red carpet.
Whether you prefer the classic beauty of diamonds and pearls or the daring allure of statement pieces, one thing is clear: jewelry will always be an essential part of the red carpet magic. As we look forward to future red carpet-events, we can’t wait to see what stunning jewels will grace the stars of tomorrow.
Megan Thee Stallion stunned fans in her hometown over the weekend, joining Beyoncé for a surprise appearance at the Renaissance World Tour stop at Houston’s NRG Stadium.
The duo gave each other their flowers while performing “Savage (Remix)” three years after collaborating on the track.
“Don’t she make you proud?” Beyoncé asked the crowd after Megan Thee Stallion rapped. “She makes me proud. I love you, girl.”
“I love you, Beyoncé!” Megan replied as the crowd cheered on their performance.
“She make me proud. I love you girl”
— Beyoncé to Megan Thee Stallion at the Renaissance World Tour in Houston, Texas. pic.twitter.com/gajUcrALgJ
On Monday (September 25) the three-time Grammy Award winner took to Instagram to show off her Renaissance Tour outfit. She posted a carousel of stunning images featuring her camouflage bodysuit with a behind-the-scenes glance of her readying for the show.
While many in the comment section gushed over her good looks and curvaceous figure, other eagle-eyed fans responded to her caption.
“Thee real Htown Hottie,” Megan The Stallion wrote alongside her post.
“Not THAT megan… THIS MEGAN,” read several comments, referencing a remark Drake recently made while onstage in Houston.
During a break at his It’s All A Blur tour stop in the city last week, the OVO founder shouted out his longtime friend and photographer Megan Sumpton aka MegYuup.
“I gotta give a shout-out to somebody here that’s known me since the beginning of my career. Her name is Megan. Meg Sumpton. MegYuup. Whatever you know her as,” Drake said. “She’s been with me since day one like real s###. She built this s### with me. Real H-Town legend.”
“Shoutout to Meg one time. Not that Meg. This Meg,” he added while pointing at Sumpton.
Drake shouts out his long time friend and photographer The Megan during his latest concert
Many fans were convinced that this was more Megan Thee Stallion shade from Drake after he seemingly referenced her getting shot by Tory Lanez on the Her Loss cut “Circo Loco.”
In the realm of rap music, Worcester, Massachusetts has birthed a rising star by the name of Apollo The Boss. With a series of notable collaborations including Boosie Badazz, Stunna 4 Vegas, and Sean Kingston, Apollo The Boss has undeniably left his mark on the music industry. Today, we are thrilled to exclusively premiere his latest single, “Fame,” featuring the renowned New York rapper, Conway the Machine. Set to release on streaming platforms on October 8, 2023, this track is already generating immense anticipation. Strap in, as we take you on a journey through the rise of Apollo The Boss and the electrifying release of “Fame.”
Born and raised in Worcester, Massachusetts, Apollo The Boss had a tumultuous upbringing. His early years were marked by the harsh realities of street life, as he hustled drugs to make ends meet. However, this path eventually led him down a destructive road, resulting in a five-year sentence in federal prison. But Apollo The Boss used this setback as an opportunity for growth, honing his lyrical skills and penning over 20 albums during his time behind bars. His dedication to his craft and determination to turn his life around set the stage for his triumphant return to the music scene.
Apollo The Boss’s ascent to prominence in the music industry can be attributed, in part, to his ability to attract high-profile collaborations. Notably, he has already worked with the likes of Boosie Badazz, Stunna 4 Vegas, and Sean Kingston, solidifying his reputation as an artist to watch. Now, with the announcement of his collaboration with New York rapper Conway the Machine on “Fame,” Apollo The Boss raises the bar even higher. The fusion of their unique styles and lyrical prowess promises to deliver a track that will leave listeners captivated.
Today, we are proud to present the exclusive premiere of “Fame” by Apollo The Boss featuring Conway the Machine. As the first platform to showcase this highly-anticipated release, we invite you to experience the raw energy and unapologetic verses that define Apollo The Boss’s signature style. From the moment the beat drops, “Fame” hooks you with its infectious melodies and hard-hitting production. The chemistry between Apollo The Boss and Conway the Machine is undeniable, creating a sonic landscape that demands your attention.
Mark your calendars for October 8, 2023, as “Fame” hits streaming platforms worldwide. This is your chance to witness the evolution of Apollo The Boss’s sound and witness the culmination of his journey thus far. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this groundbreaking release and join the legions of fans eagerly awaiting the arrival of “Fame.”
Apollo The Boss has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry, and his latest single, “Fame,” featuring Conway the Machine, is a testament to his undeniable talent. From his humble beginnings in Worcester, Massachusetts, to collaborations with industry heavyweights, Apollo The Boss has proven his ability to command attention. With the exclusive premiere of “Fame” today, we invite you to join us in celebrating the rise of this extraordinary artist. Pre-save the song, mark your calendars, and get ready to be captivated by Apollo The Boss’s undeniable artistry. The journey to “Fame” starts here.
Houston may be where it all started for Drake, but Atlanta is where it’s at, with the OVO founder calling the city “the most important place in rap music,” bar none.
The It’s All A Blur tour rolled into the city for the first of two shows on Monday (September 25) at State Farm Arena. Drake paid tribute to the city and its contributions to Hip-Hop while addressing the crowd.
“Where would any of us be without Atlanta?” Drake mused. “All the love that you show, all the musicians that you birthed, all the contributions that you give. This is hands down the most important place in rap music. You should be proud of yourselves.”
Drake also noted the impact ATL and its artists have had on his own career. “All the artists that I’ve done the greatest work with, all the artists that I love, all the artists that inspire me, the majority of them come from right here in Atlanta. So y’all make some noise for yourselves tonight,” he added. “We celebrating you.”
The “Rich Flex” hitmaker also showed love to some famous friends in the building, giving a shout-out to his show opener, U.K. rap sensation Central Cee.
“Make some noise for my brother Central Cee killing this s### tonight,” Drake said before welcoming his other special guests. “Make some noise for my brother Kai Cenat one time in here, you know. And of course, make some noise for Trae Young in here one time tonight. Real A-Town s###, wassup!”
Will Smith is making his highly anticipated musical comeback on a collaboration album with his “favorite rapper,” Joyner Lucas.
The legendary rapper-turned-actor, who celebrated his 55th birthday on Monday (September 25), is returning to his first love with a collab project in the works, his first full-length body of work in nearly two decades.
Joyner Lucas took to Instagram Monday to wish his “hero” a happy birthday and to reveal their good news. He shared a video of them working on their new album and teased a snippet of something they’re working on.
“Dear hero. I never thought I’d ever meet you,” Lucas penned in the caption. “Still trips me out that I grew up idolizing you, to then me making a record about my admiration and respect for you, to then you asking me to create a whole album with you.”
Joyner Lucas was the last rapper to bring Will Smith back outside on the remix to his ADHD track “Will” in 2020. The initial track sees Lucas pay homage to Smith’s iconic TV and film career, including his breakout role as The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
Joyner Lucas & Will Smith – Will (Remix)
Earlier this year, Joyner Lucas dropped “Devil’s Work Part 2,” a track that envisioned a world where Will Smith did not slap Chris Rock at the Oscars alongside other reimagined pop culture events.
“Erase that Will Smith slap and turn him back around/ Or wait ’til they get backstage so they could have it out,” Joyner raps. “Or maybe make it so that Chris chose a different joke/ A different topic, somethin’ Jada won’t be mad about.”
Joyner Lucas will also join Will Smith on the silver screen in the upcoming Bad Boys 4 movie.
Introducing Scotty Huss, the rising star of the pop scene whose meteoric ascent is sending shockwaves through the industry. With an electrifying blend of lyrical prowess and magnetic charisma, Scotty Huss has captured the hearts and ears of millions, solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of hip-hop.
With an Instagram following that surpasses the 2 million mark, his presence on social media is nothing short of explosive. His captivating posts, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and infectious energy have created a devoted online fanbase that hangs on his every word and beat drop.
Scotty Huss made a splash on the music scene with his debut single, “I’m On Go,” a track that not only caught the attention of fans but also earned him a coveted spot on the Billboard charts. The song’s infectious beat and Scotty’s razor-sharp lyrics struck a chord with listeners, propelling him to the top of the pop game.
Scotty Huss is not just an artist who’s riding a wave of popularity; he’s shaping the future of pop. His unique blend of authenticity, storytelling, and lyrical dexterity resonates with fans of all ages, transcending boundaries and solidifying his status as a rap icon in the making.
With a rapidly growing fanbase, chart-topping success, and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Scotty Huss is poised for greatness in the pop game. Keep your eyes and ears locked onto this rising star because the best is yet to come from the one and only Scotty Huss. Get ready to witness the evolution of pop music, one electrifying verse at a time.
Follow @scottyy on Instagram for more exclusive updates
Offset turned the tables on Bobbi Althoff after joining the podcaster for the latest episode of her popular interview series, which has blown up after appearances from the likes of Drake, Lil Yachty and Tyga.
Althoff’s hilarious The Really Good Podcast interviews have gone viral, with viewers loving her awkward approach to talking to her guests, leaving them seemingly uncomfortable. However, her chat with Offset sees the Migos rapper flip the script despite him admitting to being unaware of who she is.
In a clip posted on Instagram Monday evening (September 25), the conversation started off innocently enough, with Althoff explaining that she interviews people because she wants to get to know them. However, things went left when Offset asked why she wanted to get to know him specifically.
“Umm, I didn’t,” Althoff replied dryly. “Your team reached out to mine.”
Offset Tells Bobbi Althoff He Had To Look Her Up On TikTok
Offset fired back, “Don’t cap. Let’s not cap about that. Let’s not flex for the Gram,” before Althoff eventually conceded.
“I honestly don’t know how this came about, I’m not gonna lie to you,” she admitted. “My team could have reached out to yours, I’m not gonna make you look bad.”
Offset then told Bobbi Althoff that his team had to show him who she was. “I thought they was talking about Bobby Boucher,” he quipped. When the host said she had “never heard of Offset in my life,” and had to Google him on the way,” the “Jealousy” rapper was quick off the mark again.
“I had to go on TikTok, I couldn’t even Google you. You’re not there yet,” he stated before sharing his optimism about her trajectory. “But you’ll be there,” he added.
“Coming Thursday, probably,” Althoff shared. Check out the clip below.
While Offset probably wouldn’t describe his Bobbi Althoff interview as his greatest, he did have a blast during his recent 24-hour stream with Kai Cenat.
“Thank you, bruh. I haven’t had fun like this in life for a long time, bro,” Offset told Cenat in a text message after the stream. “I needed that in my life, been so serious for so long. N##### goin’ through s### with no fun. Thank you.’”
A’NAMII just released her debut single, “Settle,” and we can’t stop listening!
The song not only serves as a female empowerment record, but it also showcases A’NAMII’s warm, dark, buttery vocals. Her lower tone has been compared to the likes of Beyonce, Jazmine Sullivan, and Summer Walker, always embodying that classic R&B texture we all know and love.
Born and raised in Durham, North Carolina, the rising star describes herself as a “down-to-earth girl.” She states, “I’m very much so down-to-earth. I’m fun. I’m nice. I’m a Gemini, so that is one thing. You can make your own definition of that. I’m giving. I’m caring. I’m a mama’s girl. I’m really close to mommy, and I’m an artist. Oh and I’m favored too. I’m really favored.”
On that note, “Settle” serves as A’NAMII’s debut single, after a two-year hiatus from doing music. Now, she’s ready to go full-fledged with her artistry. Her goal is to make timeless music, which directly feeds into her perfectionist spirit inside the studio.
AllHipHop spoke with A’NAMII alongside her go-to producer Go To (no pun intended). Read below as we discuss her roots in North Carolina, love for music, “Settle,” studio essentials, opening for Yung Bleu and Tank, and more!
AllHipHop: Being from Durham, North Carolina, what was that like growing up?
A’NAMII: Durham was fun. No matter where you go, home is home to you. Durham is home. It’s fun, it’s a small city. If you’ve ever been to Charlotte or even Atlanta, it’s just like Atlanta but on a smaller scale. Or just like Charlotte on a small scale. Not as big, but country. Not too country. Not country like horses and animals running around, but very fun.
AllHipHop: When did you fall in love with music?
A’NAMII: I’ve always sang. I’ve sang my whole life, but I used to sing around the house for fun. Listening to music, going to church. Singing with my foster sister, we used to just sing. I fell in love with music as a child, but I didn’t think I was going to pursue music until my adult life.
AllHipHop: What was the inspiration behind your name?
A’NAMII: Go To came up with my name. My real first name is Arielle, and my middle name is Iman. Iman backwards is NAMI. We added the ‘a’ in front of the NAMI, because A’NAMII. NAMII is cute too, but the ‘a’ comes from Arielle. So it’s my middle name backwards, then ‘a’ for Arielle.
AllHipHop: You just dropped “Settle,” who or what inspired this record?
A’NAMII: “Settle” is inspired by personal events. If you’ve watched the video, that tells the story of what occurred in my last relationship. That’s what inspired the video, inspired the writing of the song.
AllHipHop: This is your debut single?
A’NAMII: It is.
AllHipHop: Crazy, how long have you been making music?
A’NAMII: I’ve been making music on and off for about 7 to 8 years. I’ve never been as consistent as I am now with it, so about 7 years on and off. I’d do it, then take a break. Or get pulled in another direction, or just life. But on and off for about 7 years.
I just came off a two-year hiatus. GoTo (whose label Hubris Sound signed A’NAMII) and I restarted working at the top of this year. We’ve worked in the past, but I took a long break, about two years and just worked. Focused on getting money and taking a break mentally. We reconnected at the top of the year, so I’m back in it now.
AllHipHop: Why was the song the perfect song to debut your music?
A’NAMII: “Settle” was a perfect song for many reasons. For one, it was personal. It’s important to be vulnerable, as I am a growing artist to let people in. Let people know who I am, what I’ve been through, my story, so that people can connect. In dating, I’m sure it’s a lot of young girls out there, and even guys that can relate to a similar situation with their partner or ex-partners.
I want to let people know that you don’t have to settle, and that doesn’t just mean relationships. That’s at work, settling with friends. Sometimes it’s easy to feel like there’s nothing else out there. It’s like, oh well this is good. You weigh the pros and cons. Well, I guess I make decent money with this job. Or I guess she is a good friend. I guess she does pick up the phone when I call her, whatever the case may be.
But a lot of us settle in life, and life is so short that it’s never a good idea to become complacent. You have to get comfortable being uncomfortable. Something I want people to know is: I don’t want to settle. That’s the message that I wanted my fans and other young girls to also practice, is not settling.
AllHipHop: Best memory from that music video?
A’NAMII: The best memory was the car scene. If you’ve watched the video, the car scene is in the end. It was exciting because we were forced to get in our acting bag. That moment required the most acting, whereas everything else is cool. It didn’t require too much, maybe small little or whatever. But that moment was a very serious moment where we had to tap into our emotions.
Even the male lead or the male actors, that was something that was difficult for him. Seeing even him put his own whatever aside and tap into that for us, for the team… “we’re going to make sure this video was good.” This is what he told me: “I want to let you know, this is something I don’t do. I would never xyz. I’d never put my hands on anyone,” or “I have daughters.” But being able to tap into that is always really cool. I really respect actors and actresses for being able to tap into something that you’ve never experienced before. That’s still the most exciting part.
AllHipHop: 3 things you need in the studio?
A’NAMII: In the studio, I always need a hoodie. Even if it’s hot, I have to pull up with a hoodie. I’m very specific. For some reason, I’m OCD. I don’t know where I got it from, but I don’t like my ears touching the headphones. I’m like this on airplanes too. Whenever I travel, even in the summertime, I travel with the hoodie on. Because I don’t want my skin touching anything, very strange.
I have to have a hoodie. I have to have all the lights. I have tea all the time, hot tea with honey. I have to have my phone. What else? And socks. I have to have on socks. Even if I wear flip flops, I’ll still bring a pair of socks on the side. Just in case I want to get comfortable and walk without shoes on.
AllHipHop: What about your recording process?
A’NAMII: The learning process is really cool. We usually record in a home studio. I really prefer home studios. If I had to make a decision, I’ll always record in a home studio because it feels way more comfortable for me. There’s no pressure as far as timing, and I’m a person that likes to get everything perfect. A lot of times when you’re in studios, there’s a time slot because other artists have to come in behind you or whatever the case may be. But there’s a different type of energy or pressure to me in commercial studios, so a part of my process is definitely recording in a home studio.
Usually, I’m in some type of stool or chair. We always set the tone, set the vibes. It’s usually candles lit, it’s dark with some type of white lights or color. The colors are usually inspired by my mood. [10:10 mark], so green might be an earthy color or green might be a money color. Sometimes it may be blue. If you’re feeling bluesy, a little bit sad or down. Red could be sexy, if you’re making a sexy type of song.
My recording process is dope. I usually record things verse by verse or line by line, to make sure I get it perfect. We start with the first verse, then we add on background vocals and harmonies last.
How was the opening for Bleu?
A’NAMII: Opening for Yung Bleu was really exciting. That was our first show, literally in years. As I mentioned, I took a two year break. That was really exciting for our first show back, especially for such a big artist. It was a great opportunity. The crowd was really inviting, they were definitely there to have a good time. They weren’t stale. Sometimes a crowd can be stiff, especially for opening artists because they’re there to see who they want to see. But the girls were so sweet and inviting, everybody was smiling. It was a vibe. It was really exciting.
AllHipHop: What about opening for Tank and Charlie Wilson?
A’NAMII: These shows were one day apart. Yung Bleu show was on Thursday, then the Tank and Charlie show was on Saturday. That was amazing as well. We all grew up on Uncle Charlie, the Gap Band, Charlie Wilson. Years later, being able to open up for him — Tank as well, I also grew up on Tank. Middle school, elementary, high school, listened to Tank. Super dope, I learned so much from watching them. How they work, the crowd energy, the breath control, being in character as a performer. It was really great.
You also are reminded of timeless music, songs that you forgot about. That’s inspiring too because I want to make songs like that. We want to make timeless songs like that, where 20 years from now people say “oh, I grew up listening to A’NAMII.” 20 years later, the song still hasn’t change impact. But from the background dancers to the background vocalists, they put on a show. That was a great learning experience. Every time I hit the stage, it’s a learning experience. I take away something every single time that I’ll apply to the next show, so it was great. It was dope.
Also got the opportunity to meet Tank, that was really dope as well.
AllHipHop: Tank is hilarious.
A’NAMII: He is, he’s a character. I was excited that I got to meet him in person. When he got off the stage, I got to meet him. I was backstage, me and my team were backstage. His security was adamant about protecting him. No pictures for nobody, they’re going straight to the dressing room. But he saw us. When he saw me, he stopped, turned, and gave me a hug. I thought that was really cool. Anytime an artist goes around their security and says “it’s okay,” that’s a special moment. To just be acknowledged, that’s dope.
AllHipHop: Do you get nervous opening for big people like this?
A’NAMII: Yes and no. I say yes because no matter what show, I hold myself to a certain standard. I want to make sure I do good and that people like it. Always being concerned about what the crowd would think, does definitely create or generate a little bit of nerves. But I surprisingly was not nervous for the Tank show, Charlie Wilson, or even really Yung Blue.
This is where I am, this is where I’m supposed to be. This is what God has for me. It’s already for me, so I’ma go get it. I really wasn’t that nervous, that was cool. Because when I used to perform years ago, I’d be so nervous. My armpits would be sweating. I’d have those little sweat beads on my nose, I wouldn’t want to talk to anybody. Because in my mind, if I talk to somebody, I’m gonna mess up my voice. I’d need to preserve my voice. But this time, we just having a good time.
AllHipHop: Any goals for yourself at this point in your career?
A’NAMII: Of course, I’ll always have goals. The goals are endless, I don’t even know where to start with the goals. But to name a few, definitely excited about releasing a project EP soon. Being on Billboards, going on tour. Maybe going on tour with a bigger artist at first, then eventually having my own tour. The goals are endless for sure.
AllHipHop: Anything else people should know about you?
A’NAMII: Follow me on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook and all socials: @itsanamii. I’d love for them to be a part of this journey with me. It’s no fun doing it by yourself. I always think it’s really cool to watch artists grow from ground level. That’s how you really know artists. That’s how I grew up. Watching the artists that are still relevant today, we all saw them grow up. It’s cool. Again, it’s not fun doing it by yourself, so I’d appreciate people to ride this journey with me.
Jada Pinkett Smith paid tribute to her husband, Will Smith, to celebrate his birthday on Monday (September 25). The “Bad Boys” star turned 55, and to mark the special occasion, his loving spouse took to social media to express her gratitude.
“Willard, I am so glad you were born on this day,” Jada wrote on Instagram. “Without you I would not have experienced the greatest joy of my life… the love of our family.”
Jada’s post also included an old black-and-white photograph of her and Will Smith posing with their then-young children.
“On this Divine assignment we’ve chosen to walk together, I am grateful for the wells of laughter along the trails of tears we’ve shared,” she added. “Thank you for helping me learn to embrace it all … with a smile. Here’s to 100+ more birthdays full of growth, acceptance and joy.”
Jada and Will Smith were married in 1997 and have two children together, 25-year-old Jaden and 22-year-old Willow. Will also has a son, Trey, with his ex-wife Sheree Zampino.
The actor marked his birthday by recalling his experience of bungee jumping off a flying helicopter to celebrate turning 50.
“5 years ago today, somebody was trippin’!” Will wrote on Instagram alongside a video of the stunt.
Lil Yachty did not want any men to be part of his band for his Field Trip Tour. The Quality Control Music artist explained why he opted for an all-women backing band in an interview with Grammy.com.
“My life is surrounded by women — my two assistants, my mother as a manager, a lot of my friends are women,” Lil Yachty said. “Women really help me throughout my day. I just think that women are so powerful. I feel like they rule the world. They are the most important aspect to this world and they don’t get enough credit or shine, especially Black women. So that was my aura behind it. I just wanted to showcase that women can shred just as good as men.”
The rapper-turned-rocker hired bass player Téja Veal, drummer Monica Carter, guitarist Quenequia Graves, keyboardist Kennedy Avery Smith and two vocalists: Lea Grace Swinson and Romana R. Sainti. Lil Yachty praised the band members for their adaptability.
“They’re all so talented, so they all learned it very quick,” he said. “I gave [the music] to them early and gave them the stems. When it was day one, they all knew the songs. Even my new guitarist that came in later than everyone, she came in knowing the music.”
He added, “The rehearsal project for this tour was a little different because I’m reconstructing the whole album. I’m moving everything around and changing all the transitions and trying to make it trippy. So it’s a process of me figuring out how I want to do things. But they’re so talented and so smart, all I have to do is tell them what I want, and they’ll do it instantly.”
The North American leg of Lil Yachty’s Field Trip Tour runs through early November. European dates are scheduled for late November and December.
Calling Saweetie’s relationship with her nourishment a “food addiction” is Willy irresponsible—what she’s doing should be labeled “food abuse” or something worse.
I’m definitely over-whoopin’ right now, but something needs to said by someone. Something about these would-be cute food preferences are no-longer fun or worthy of recreating in a “challenge” of some sort. In fact, they kind of make the Icy Girl seem less like a “Foodie Princess” and more like a bing-craver by the looks of her plate.
Her latest crime against cuisines, you ask? A trip to what appears to be a McDonald’s abroad—during which I can say I have never witnessed a person mishandle french fries with blatant disregard the way Saweetie does in the clip. While neither I nor the sources here at AllHipHop can confirm whether the sandwich in the video is a Fish Filet or a McChicken, the amount of ranch, fries and barbecue sauce on top make the sandwich almost unrecognizable.
What’s even crazier about this concoction is the fact that it’s actually a mild creation when it comes to what she’s got cookin’ in the kitchen. I’ve honestly seen it all on Saweetie’s food Twitter—from pizza and M&M’s to Doritos and Sushi and or Beef-A-Roni and Cheetos. It’s a wide and wicked world over there my G—like macaroni and Lucky Charms is so crazy it has to be a pump fake. The texture and temperature difference alone would send me into cardiac arrest.
You can even hear her homegirl go “eww” as Saweetie smiles into the camera and she takes a bite of the fast-food monstrosity. I’m convinced she’s just secretly playing us all and riding the “pretty girl, ugly plate” wave until it crashes ashore. But then again, she did tell Kevin Hart she’s true to the game—not new to it.
Jeezy expressed interest in turning his new book Adversity for Sale: Ya Gotta Believe into a movie. The multi-platinum-selling artist discussed the possibility of creating a film based on the book in an interview with AllHipHop’s Chuck Creekmur and DJ Thoro.
“I would love that,” Jeezy said. “But in the way I would do it, it wouldn’t just be about me. It’d be about everything that was going on. Because music at that time, it was golden. The city was golden, the clubs was golden, the nightlife was golden. Atlanta was just—it just was a different city, like the vibe. So, it would just be about all that. It would be like a Paid in Full. When you watch Paid in Full, you just got to think about that city was lit back then.”
Jeezy’s book featured a whole cast of real-life characters who seemed ready-made for a potential movie. The rapper-turned-author said it was important for him to not make anyone look bad while telling his story.
“I want to be respectful,” he explained. “This is not me trying to throw nobody under the bus, get one up. It’s just a story, It was very therapeutic for me. Because it’s like Hip-Hop culture, we go through so much, man. We like Marines that came back from a war. We all got PTSD, we all paranoid, we all got our thing.”
He added, “For me, I was just unpacking that writing a book. And it was just like, ‘Damn, that did happen. Wow.’ And it’s just sometimes when you sit back, you’ve got to really just give God the glory because you’ve been through so much. And for a day like today, for me to officially be an author, who knew I had to go through all that s### to officially be an author.”
Check out Jeezy’s appearance on the AllHipHop podcast below.
Memphis Bleek has purportedly laid out the fall of Roc-A-Fella Records before our eyes during his appearance on the Drink Champs podcast.
While remarking on his 14-year-long involvement with the label, Bleek revealed to co-hosts N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN what he believes was the “final straw” resulting in the demise of the beloved New York Hip-Hop imprint. Apparently, it all went down during the “Change Clothes” video shoot, during which Bleek and Dame Dash became at odds with each other.
“When I knew the final straw was at the ‘Change Clothes’ video,” Bleek started off. “Yeah, me and Dame had a major argument cause he was telling something to Beans—me and Dame always argued—because it was like he used to be living on cloud nine and I was on reality. Like, I always say that, n###s in the industry will pop every pill under the sun but that reality pill.”
Bleek continued, suggesting he already knew a major shift was incoming. “These n####s don’t want to accept when it’s over,” Bleek said. “You know what I’m sayin’, n####s will be in denial and fight against that s###. And it’s like, bro you gotta accept it, n####s don’t f### with you dawg, it’s on. You gotta do something else.”
Bleek said things fully boiled over when Dame allegedly threatened to both shelve and drop him from the label. “And it was that he basically telling n####s, ‘Yea we gon fix this, we gone do that’ and I’m looking at him like ‘Bro this s### over,'” Bleek said in part. “And he looked at me and said, ‘Yo you always going against everything I said like you got a problem here—if you don’t want to be with Roc-A-Fella I’ll give you your walking papers.’
“And you know me ‘N###a you don’t got the power to do that, I’m not on Roc-A-Fella because of you, are you crazy?’ And I remember they broke it up and security came in there and cleared us out and then Hov got wind of what happened, and from there that conversation there I knew s### was over. Gotta make new plans now Blizzle.”
Memphis Bleek says that during an argument on the 'Change Clothes' video shoot, Dame Dash's threat to drop him from Roc-A-Fella Records was the last straw for Jay-Z.
He also suggests that Dame Dash was in denial and couldn't accept the reality that Roc-A-Fella Records was over.… pic.twitter.com/07oR6MFv1p
While it’s clear there were many other factors that caused the dismantling of Roc-A-Fella, it’s interesting to hear that this level of chaos evolved within the ranks during the label’s final days from one of the flagship artists. Not to mention it’s wild to see Bleek actually confirm Michael Jackson’s rumored “No ey contact” policy was a real thing. Check out the full interview below.
Tory Lanez spoke to his fans via a prison phone call on Monday (September 25). The Canadian rapper/singer insisted he was in “great spirits” in an audio message shared on his Instagram account.
“I’m talking to you live from prison right now, man,” he said. “I’m just happy to get out that b####### county jail. They was hating on a young fly n####, you heard? Had me on 24-hour lockdown. Half-sized cell by myself. No windows, no mirrors. N#### ain’t even seen himself in a whole year, yo.”
He continued, “But with all them disadvantages against me, my head has always been held high, man. And I want y’all to know I’m in great spirits. My drive and my ambition is growing stronger and stronger every day. And I’m so proud of how y’all been moving in my support, man.”
Tory Lanez claimed he was not scared of prison, contrary to reports suggesting he feared for his life. His audio message teased new music, including a deluxe edition of his Alone at Prom album.
“I know this feels like a scary time but don’t be afraid, man,” he said. “This s### don’t spark no fear in my heart whatsoever, at all. In fact, I’m more prepared than ever. The music, the videos and all the projects you wanted, they’re all ready to drop.”
Tory Lanez, whose real name is Daystar Peterson, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for shooting Megan Thee Stallion. He maintains his innocence.
Lawyers are appealing Tory Lanez’s conviction but failed to convince to judge to release him on bail. He was transferred from Los Angeles County Jail to North Kern State Prison on September 19.
Chrisean Rock apologized to Keke Palmer for misreading the actor/singer’s comments on the reality TV star’s struggles with parenthood. The two cleared up the misunderstanding after Palmer weighed in on the ongoing drama between the new mother and Blueface.
“Me and Keke talked,” Chrisean Rock wrote via X (formerly known as Twitter) on Monday (September 25).
She added, “I’m Gladd keke entered the chat. Other mothers should uplift each other instead other s###. I’m sorry keke I read it wrong n got to popping my s### cuz this s### so sensitive rn I’m just done with ppl speaking up against me through a sensitive situation rn.”
Palmer pleaded for someone to help Chrisean Rock in an Instagram comment. Palmer felt a need to speak out after Blueface shockingly exposed his newborn’s genitals on social media.
“This is so sad to me especially as a new mom,” Palmer wrote. “I didn’t wanna say nothing or involve myself on anything but my heart is breaking for all involved. This is exactly what maternal health care is about. It doesn’t matter how you feel about Chrisean before, now she’s a mother and for that BABY she needs help and proper CARE!”
She continued, “Why doesn’t anyone care about her or any of THE OTHER MOTHERS THAT ARE STRUGGLING! She is just ONE but the face of MANY! There are women out here that are beyond ‘judgment’ because their children need them.”
Chrisean Rock initially took issue with Palmer’s post. The Zeus TV personality wondered why Palmer didn’t reach out privately.
“Keke Palmer we got each other number u chiming in like we don’t [have] each other numbers is whatever,” she wrote in a since-deleted post. “Jr dad is just somebody that I have to really stay away from I gave him the benefit of doubt. But everyone that’s speaking on my behalf hit my dm or ask me for my number.”
But Chrisean Rock quickly changed her tune and expressed appreciation for Palmer’s remarks. Palmer responded by showing support on social media.
“I understand, you have a right to be sensitive you just had a baby!” Palmer wrote to Chrisean Rock. “Let’s keep praying for one another, no one can judge you. God has the final say .. now put a name on my # fr this time.”
Chrisean Rock gave birth to her son on September 3. Blueface, the child’s father, claimed she was an unfit mother in an online rant over the weekend.
I understand, you have a right to be sensitive you just had a baby 🥹! Let’s keep praying for one another, no one can judge you. God has the final say .. now put a name on my # fr this time 🤣
Under a video where the mogul Diddy discussed returning publishing rights to his former artists, Cassie’s husband, Alex Fine, casually called out her ex-boyfriend. Fine didn’t hold back, stating, “He’s so old and out of touch,” while using a rainbow flag and an elderly man emoji. This is not the first time he’s done this. Cassie and Diddy had a decade-long relationship that ended in 2018, AND THEN she found love with her current bae in 2019.
Diddy was explaining what is generally regarded as a good deed, reclaiming (or “giving back”) the publishing rights of writers and artists he had collaborated with. “Two years ago, I reassigned [the publishing], and then the lawyers had to work everything out,” he clarified. “It’s not a straightforward process. It’s called reassignment — I didn’t simply hand it over.”
But, there is a bit of a twist here. But, before that, here is the rumor! I know why you are here, people. A source with me tells me that Diddy has a song called “Homecoming” and it is rumored to be directed towards Cassie.
Here are some of the lyrics:
[Intro: Jozzy & Diddy]
“Baby, won’t you come on home, come on home
Baby, won’t you come on home, come on home
Baby, won’t you come on home, come on home
(I tried to get you out of my head)
Ooh-ooh, ooh-ooh-ooh, come on home, come on home
Home (I tried to get you out of my soul)
Home, home (Seasick)
Let me talk you
[Verse 1: Jozzy & Diddy]
Sweet little bird
Did you get you a chance to touch Heaven?
Ooh, yeah
Oh, have you hit your peak? (Oh, hit your peak)
Met someone that you never regrettin’, oh
Oh, yeah (Oh, yeah)
(I miss you)
I needin’ you in my happiness (Happiness)
You waited for all those years (All those years)
Ooh, ooh-ooh-ooh (I miss you)
And since (And since)
We could never (Never), find another to take each other’s place
Let’s keep it right here
[Pre-Chorus: Jozzy & Diddy]
If he’s not good to you (Not good to you)
Then I know, know a place you could run to (Come on)
If he’s not good to you
Then I know, know a place you could run to (Come on)
Girl, that’s right into my arms”
Thoughts?
It could be a general lyric or it could NOT be a general lyric. It sure sounds like he is talking to somebody.
I wonder what sort of NDA (non-disclosure agreement) Cassie is under. She never says anything, but her man is jumping up periodically to call Diddy “fruity” every so often. By the way, that is a no-no! Has Cassie been engaged in a bit of pillowtalk? Hmmm.
Danity Kane singer Aubrey O’Day recently said that Diddy had been pressuring past Bad Boy artists to sign non-disclosure agreements in exchange for music rights. Cassie may have done that before them all as a member of his tribe. I knew about this NDA situation before, but as it related to a rapper that was once signed to the lable. At that time, I opted not to say anything.
At any rate, this is great “stuff” for the rumors.
Pras of the Fugees is making some serious changes. I won’t even waste time, I’m going straight into this rumor. David Kenner, the legal eagle lawyer who represented the former Fugee rapper has been held in contempt of court. What does that mean? It could mean a number of things. It could mean that he was disrespecting the judge in the case of Pras. It could mean that he has broken some sort of law. Right now, I don’t have those details but they’re out there.
The crazy thing is Kenner is regarded as one of the best lawyers ever. But I’m not sure if he has been as effective recently as he has in the past. First of all, Tory Lanez is sitting in a jail cell right now, and Kenner was his attorney. Previous to that he had represented both Suge Knight & Death Row Records and Snoop Dogg. You might remember he won for Snoop and helped him beat a murder case! In his defense, he did join the Tory Lanez case late so the wheels might’ve been rolling before he got there. He actually joined after the trial began.
Nevertheless, my source says, “He was in over his head” in the Pras case. Now, Pras has an all-star team representing him. A former US Senator is on his defense team! That appeal is about to be poppin’! As you now, Pras was found guilty on 10 criminal counts in a Washington D.C. courtroom earlier this year. Pras was accused of helping Malaysian businessman Jho Low gain political influence in the U.S. in exchange for a cool $100 million. Pras was charged with conspiracy, witness tampering and failing to register as an agent of China, among other federal charges. He maintains his his innocence in the matter.
On a decidedly more positive note, The Fugees performed over the weekend at Global Citizens in New York City.
Saturday night marked a historic moment at the Global Citizen Festival in New York City, with the renowned hip-hop ensemble, The Fugees, reuniting on stage. The trio, consisting of Ms. Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, and Pras Michel, delivered a charged, energetic performance, featuring their well-loved hits like “Ready or Not,” “Fu-Gee-La,” and “Killing Me Softly.”
Beyond the music, The Fugees used their platform to convey a crucial message, advocating for sovereign nations to take control of their natural resources. Wyclef Jean stirred the crowd’s support for Haiti’s relief efforts, as the country grapples with political turmoil and instability. He stressed the importance of Haitians shaping their own destiny amidst foreign interests in the region.
Onstage, the three members exhibited remarkable chemistry and enthusiasm, hinting at the possibility of future tours together. As Wyclef addressed the audience, “I hate goodbyes, so regardless of what you hear, we gon’ always be the Fugees.” They come on at the 4-hour, 30 minute mark of the video below.
Nipsey Hussle’s brother, Black Sam, is upholding his brother’s activism by teaming up with the Los Angeles Marathon, one of America’s biggest charitable events.
According toThe Hollywood Reporter, the 2024 marathon is set for March 17 and will include the Nipsey-founded Neighborhood Nip Foundation as one of its charity partners. The collaboration will contribute a portion of the event’s proceeds to support the nonprofit organization’s community efforts.
“We are honored to be able to partner with the LA marathon,” Black Sam said. “It means a lot to us because it’s something that Nip spoke about and had an interest in being a part of. He told the whole team about it and how he wanted the brand to do something with the LA Marathon especially since it’s in L.A. Nip actually wanted to run the Marathon. He told us all to get ready and get in shape for it. That’s why it feels so good for this to be coming to fruition.”
Nipsey’s TMC brand will assemble a team of 15 or more for the marathon, with each runner raising funds for the Neighborhood Nip Foundation.
The organization was founded in 2019, not long after the artist was tragically murdered, the foundation supports underprivileged youth through community initiatives.
It’s perfect branding as one of the deceased star’s enduring themes in the music is the concept of the marathon.
The LA Marathon is excited to partner with NNF, with Charity Director Melissa Christian saying, “Nipsey Hussle’s iconic legacy is a beacon of inspiration for everyone in the City of Los Angeles and we are delighted to welcome the Neighborhood Nip Foundation as an official charity partner in March.
“The Los Angeles Marathon is so much more than just a race. It’s a platform to empower communities and this partnership truly embodies that spirit, uniting our neighborhoods in a shared commitment to build a healthier world while celebrating Nipsey Hussle’s enduring legacy of resilience in the city he loved.”
Those interested can register here. The foundation plans to sponsor those unable to cover marathon fees.
In the middle of 50 Cent’s sold-out Final Lap Tour, the rapper-turned-mogul is reportedly looking to make money by investing in a different lap—lap dances.
According to the Jasmine Brand, the artist who’s made millions in music, television and film and adult beverages, is looking to get into the adult entertainment game. The insider tells the outlet he’s gearing up to own a strip club in Detroit, not far from where the central characters from his hit show BMF actually started their empire.
The “In Da Club” chart-topper is not the only Queens native exploring the gentlemen’s club industry as a way to make major bank. Akinyele, most famous for his 1996 hit “Put It In Your Mouth,” has made a fortune with his King of Diamonds brand, which is now a popular Atlanta venue for battle rap artists and league owners. He’s now looking to open a new venue in Las Vegas. He plans to open his newest location, poised to top his legendary one in South Beach, during next year’s Super Bowl.
He took to his Instagram to make that announcement on Monday (September 18) saying that a stripper named Happen put the bug in his ear. “My name is Happen, and what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas,” he wrote, quoting the woman. “K.O.D Vegas….. let’s get back to the money.”