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K Johns Talks Roots In LA, “Do Better” & Nipsey Hussle’s Influence

By: Shirley Ju Updated Category: Breeding Ground
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Los Angeles is home to many greats, and K Johns plans to be one of them. The rising star is a Westmont District native, born and raised in South Central LA. Whether he’s spitting about overcoming obstacles or soothe-talking the females, K Johns creates from a real place, with lyrics inspired directly by real life experiences. 

In describing himself, K Johns states he’s an “authentic, real person. Solid, just a stand up guy. Real. Real is a cliche word, but that’s really how I describe myself. I’m real because I’m straightforward. I’m honest. I’m blunt sometimes, maybe too blunt. But it’s real. It’s no facade, I’m not doing it for no points or nothing.”

Most recently, K Johns unveiled the official music video to his new single titled “Do Better,” showcasing his most polished and refined version of his artistry yet. The record serves as a message to all females out there that they deserve more than their current relationship, reminding them of their worth.

Fans can also look forward to the release of his new project titled One of Them Ones, dropping July 28th.

AllHipHop spoke with K Johns in downtown Los Angeles to discuss his roots in Los Angeles, how he started rapping, the inspo behind “Do Better,” Nipsey Hussle’s influence, goals, and more!

AllHipHop: Growing up in Westmont District, what was that like?

K Johns: To me, it was normal. Because I didn’t really get to see other environments until I started playing sports. I started having other friends from different places, I started going to spend the night at each other’s houses. Once I started doing that, I started seeing like damn, my friends don’t live like me. They might have a bigger house or they may have a nicer car they driving in when they go to school, or they may have a better neighborhood and better things to do around their neighborhood. That’s when I started realizing it was a difference, in certain places that you went. At least in the city that I was from, because I hadn’t really started traveling until I got older. At least where I was from, I thought everybody was living the same way. As a kid, you’re not used to that.

AllHipHop: When did you fall in love with music?

K Johns: As a kid forreal. My first music video I remember seeing was an Usher video, “You Make Me Wanna…” The first real rapper video that made me excited over rapping was Hot Boys, Lil Wayne. “Back That Azz Up,” that video. I’m like, what the f###? That s### blew my mind. [laughs] As I got older, my dad was a big fan of Lil Wayne. When I was in middle school and Lil Wayne was really hot, him rapping just blew my mind. It made me a big critic on music at first. Eventually, I always played around with rapping for fun, but I never thought I could be a rapper. But I for sure was always into music, always liked different types of music. 

AllHipHop: When did you realize you could start rapping?

K Johns: I realized I could start rapping when I was in college forreal, me and my friends used to freestyle every Thursday. We used to have fun, get drunk and freestyle. One time, we started doing it at a party. We gathered a little crowd around because they seen what we were doing. I start rapping at the party. I was playing around like we usually do, but the reaction that I got surprised me. Damn, my friends were telling me that I was good. But once I got a reaction from a bunch of people that I didn’t know, it made it more like okay damn, they’re not lying. They’re not just telling me that because they my friends, other people feel the same way. But I was playing football at the time, so I didn’t really take it serious. I wasn’t really thinking “I’ma start making music because of this.” It was a thought in the back of my head, like maybe I can make music one day.

AllHipHop:How would you describe your sound?

K Johns: My sound is LA. Fun. Informative, bouncy, catchy. I like to say cool too. Growing up, people used to say I think I’m cool. Me being calm in my raps, it displays that. My personality.

AllHipHop: How’d you get your name?

K Johns: My name came from my real name. It’s the first letter of my first name, then the first four letters of my last name. I’ve been calling myself K Johns since forever, before I started rapping. So I just stuck with it.

AllHipHop: You just released “Do Better.” Did a certain female inspire this record?

K Johns: That’s more so a general track to all the girls, because I know there’s a lot of talk on the internet about relationships. That’s a big topic through the different platforms, whether it’s Twitter, Instagram, podcasting. It’s a big topic. Nowadays in this generation, it’s a lot of b####### going on. It’s motivation for the women to do better. S###, you could do better. You don’t have to put up with no b#######, it’s a lot of people out here. Because in my mind, I feel the same way when I deal with women. I’m not gonna put up with no b####### because it’s a lot of people out here. If I can do better, I’m gonna do better. If you know better, you’re gonna do better. If I tell you, if I remind you like hey you can do better, you’re gonna do it.

AllHipHop: What inspired the video?

K Johns: The video idea came from the song concept really. It’s basically a girl comes to my show, she got her dude blowing up her phone up. I convince her throughout the show to do better, which is me. I ended up leaving with her. [laughs] Smooth, real player. 

AllHipHop: What can we expect from your upcoming EP, One Of Them Ones?  I

K Johns: S###, the title! It’s one of them ones. I dropped a couple projects so far, probably four. Not all ful projects, couple of small EPs. But this is literally one of the ones, the best. I’m calling it the best project of 2023. When people bring it up, that’s gon’ be what they say: it’s one of them ones. It’s one of them tapes, one of those ones that you want to go listen to. That’s what it is.

How does it showcase your artistic growth?

K Johns: It showcases my artistic growth through the diversity in the songs. I used to make a lot of music tailored to people like me. Usually when I make a project, I try to make the project well-rounded as far as trying to hit in all angles. Music for the ladies, music for my crowd, music for other listeners. But I don’t really always reach it to the aspect that I’m supposed to, I don’t reach the full potential. On this project, I actually did that. I tapped into my female crowd, which is most of my fanbase. I was more diverse, I did a better job of doing it.

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

K Johns: To be yourself, that you can win by being you. Literally. The fact that you’re an individual and we’re all different, that’s what makes you special. You can win if you hone in on whatever that is that makes you special, compared to everybody else.

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

K Johns: Water for sure, some Fiji water. Some weed, and quiet. I need it to be quiet, a smooth environment. At least when I’m working. When I’m not working and we might be listening to the music, it’s cool. But while I’m working, I don’t like all the partying. Peace and quiet for. I want to work, I want to create. Be able to think clear.

AllHipHop: What sets you apart from the other West Coast artists?

K Johns: What sets me apart from the other West Coast artists is I don’t gangbang. [laughs] It’s not important to us as it is to the outside world, but I know that it’s a big thing nowadays. Because a lot of n*ggas don’t make it, unless they gangbang. So the fact that I don’t, it’s harder for me to maneuver around. But that’s what makes me different, and the fact that I’m comfortable with it. I’m not trying to attach myself to nothing at all, I’m an artist. I’m a creator, I got “creator” tattooed on my face. I like to make s###.

What do you have tattooed in your neck? Because that looks painful.

K Johns: This for Nip, the Marathon.This side is the chess player, this side is the Sagittarius. 

What was Nipsey Hussle’s influence on you? Rest in peace.

K Johns: Nipsey’s influence is big man, rest in peace for sure. The Marathon mixtape, that was the Bible for me when I first heard it. When I first discovered it. I started listening to Nipsey, Bullets Ain’t Got No Name – Vol. 2. I can’t say I was super into that project, it was a couple of songs off that project that had my attention. But once I heard The Marathon, I really was like oh yeah, this is the best s### I’ve ever heard. At the time, I was chasing the football dream. NFL dream, that s### motivated me to another level. I was so locked in, it was all from his words. 

I was raised by my pops, but my pops taught me a lot of s### visually. We didn’t sit down and have a bunch of talks like you see in the movies. He showed me, I just had to watch him. I learned a lot from that. But Nipsey, listening to his music, I got to learn a lot of s###. It was like reading a book because he was literally talking to me and telling me s### I should be doing. It played a big role, I got him tattooed on my chest.

AllHipHop: Favorite Nipsey song?

K Johns: Damn, that’s hard. I never been asked that question, f###. Probably “Creep,” or one of the unreleased songs. It don’t have no official title, but it’s one of the unreleased songs.

AllHipHop: What about favorite project?

K Johns: The Marathon fasho, because it meant the most to me. All his projects, like X-Tra Laps, they got quality music. Me personally, I liked all his s###. That’s not to be biased, I was a big fan of bro. I liked all the s### that he was dropping. The Marathon meant the most to me, so I’ma say that’s my favorite one.

AllHipHop: How much did it hurt you when he passed?

K Johns: Man, that f##### me up. Not gonna lie. I hate to say this because this gon’ sound bad, but I got family that passed away I didn’t shed a tear about. I shed a tear when he died, because he played a big role in my life. I came across Nipsey one time and it wasn’t even no big conversation. It wasn’t no we got to really chop it up, we wasn’t friends, none of that. But his music meant that much that it was like damn! It’s selfish to say, but I’m not gon’ be able to get no more game. He was teaching me, he was giving me the blueprint. He was showing me s###, he was giving me the direction. For sure, so it f##### me up. The whole city was outside. We rolled around the city for sure I was outside the whole day.

AllHipHop: Do you have any goals for yourself?

K Johns: Hell yeah, I want a Platinum record for sure. I want to take my family on tour. I want to be able to travel like that. My family, my friends, I’ma take them on tour. I want property, I want to be able to move my family to a better situation. I literally pray to be put in a position that I can put others in position, so that’s really my main goal. A lot of people said that’s not really a goal, but to me it really is. That’s all I work for.

AllHipHop: When you’re not working, what do you like to do for fun?

K Johns: I like to play the game with my friends, like a little kid. That’s how I escape from all the s### that I’m doing. I paint, that’s damn near my job. I do murals on walls. I do canvases, I do shoes. I’ve done clothes before. I like to create like I said, I got “creator” on my face. I like to make s###. I’m not an outside type of person. I don’t really be outside like I used to, as far as the club. I like to go out to eat, I like to travel.

AllHipHop: What can we expect next? 

K Johns: I’ma line up some shows. A lot of my fans, they be asking about shows. I’ma line up some shows after I drop his tape. I should be performing soon, I’ll be announcing that. I’m dropping the tape on the 28th. I’m already working on my next project. Of course these song been done, so I’ve been recording this year. I got a new project on the way, drop it around the end of the year. I got more music coming. I’m trying to keep working, keep putting as many shots up as I can. 

MYA Hookah Unveils Street-Inspired “D’or Especial” Hookah Case

By: Brxton Lee Updated Category: Music
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Since 1863 MYA Hookah has been a pioneer in the hookah industry, and with the creation of the “D’or Especial” Hookah Case by national artist Juan Pineda, MYA is once again trailblazing a new take on a classic accessory.  The “D’or Especial” Hookah Case is the first glimpse at what will soon become a street-inspired line of MYA Hookah Cases.

“I love the sound, the feel, and the energy of the street and the world of hookah – it’s part of me,” said renowned Dominican American music artist and songwriter Cristion D’or. “To have MYA Hookah capture both on a Hookah Case is incredibly special.  Crazy special.  D’or Especial. There is nothing like this in Washington Heights, on Fifth Avenue or in the world, and I have the only one.” 

The “D’or Especial” Hookah Case was created as a gift by MYA Hookah CEO Mahmoud Badawi in appreciation for Cristion’s commitment to the hookah and music communities. Cristion is best known for songs like “Spinnin’” (feat. Lil Durk) from the Fast & Furious Soundtrack, “City of Gods” (feat. Fivio Foreign, Kanye West and Alicia Keys) and the “Hookiviri Remix” with Tyler River & Cito on the Beat. 

The hookah case, coordinated by Pipkin Creative, was designed by award-winning artist Juan Pineda whose distinct style is characterized as urban-contemporary/street art. Juan has been recognized by “The Washington Post” for positive impact within the Latino community. 

“It is exciting for MYA to evolve in the industry and look at new ways to connect with our audience through products and with influencers,” stated  MYA Hookah CEO and President Mahmoud Badawi. “Building the D’or Especial Hookah Case for Cristion was great fun, and an ideal way for MYA to prepare for the upcoming launch of MYA’s line of street-inspired Hookah Cases.”  

MYA Hookah can be found on social media at www.instagram.com/myasaray or on-line at www.myahookah.com   

FAA Approves Flying Cars For “Exhibition, Research & Developmental Purposes”

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News
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The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has moved the United States from the Flintstones to the age of the Jetsons with one major decision.

According to the BBC, the FAA—a division of the U.S. Department of Transportation responsible for efficient aerospace travel—has issued a Special Airworthiness Certificate to a flying car model developed by Alef Aeronautics, which will allow the vehicle to fly in limited locations for exhibition, research and developmental purposes.

The founders of Alef Aeronautics, a California-based company, started working on the concept in 2015 and within four years, created its first full-size flying-car prototype, a huge leap for a study called Advanced Air Mobility (AAM).

AAM is reportedly an umbrella term used for highly automated passenger or cargo-carrying flying aircrafts, typically referred to as air taxis or vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircrafts.

“Our flights were very limited without this certification,” an Alef Aeronautics spokesperson told Flying Magazine. “This certification now gives us the ability to fly in locations we need (for example, near our headquarters in Silicon Valley) and [for] purposes we need (like exhibition, for example),”

“We’re excited to receive this certification from the FAA,” the company’s CEO, Jim Dukhovny, said to Big Think. “It allows us to move closer to bringing people an environmentally friendly and faster commute, saving individuals and companies hours each week.”

The name of the flying car the company is pushing is Armada Model Zero, a fully electric vehicle that takes off and lands vertically.

A couple of people took to social media to weigh in. One wrote, “I just realized flying cars would be so crazy like there’s a bunch of people flying their cars in the air with no traffic lights then all the sudden you flying out your car to your death cause you got in a crash, then flying at night would be even worse.”

But that reality is far from coming to fruition—the technology for flying cars isn’t there yet. The approval will allow Alef Aeronautics to do its first public demonstration of flight.

A problem, outside of getting them from the road to the air without taxing like a small plane’s take-off, is making the cars sleek and relatively quiet. Manufacturers will work with NASA as they consider how these flying cars will impact noise pollution.

Air pollution is also a factor. The only cars that have been green-lit are gas/electric hybrids.

Alef Aero Model A Promo

Still, everything will be moving fast after this approval.

Alef Aeronautics plans to begin manufacturing in 2025 or early 2026, however, people can already pre-order the cars for $300,000. That’s just for now. After a while, the expensive price tag will drop and the average “His Boy Elroy” will be able to get one for $35,000.

Pete Buttigieg, the nation’s Secretary of Transportation, isn’t rushing to get one. As he told News Nation, “Certainly I’m not planning on switching the family minivan to a flying car anytime soon.”

2Pac Murder Investigation: Warrant Reportedly Served At Keefe D’s Nevada Home

By: Kyle Eustice Updated Category: News
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The Las Vegas Police Department served a warrant on a Nevada home this week as part of the ongoing investigation into Tupac Shakur’s 1996 murder. While very few details were available on what transpired, 8 News Now has provided an update. According to the outlet, the warrant was served at the residence of Duane “Keefe D” Davis.

Detectives served the search warrant at the Henderson home near Interstate 11 and Wagon Wheel Drive on Monday (July 17). It wasn’t determined how Keefe D was connected to the address. Police were looking for personal notes, photos and other documents related to 2Pac’s death. Someone initially told a reporter and photographer they had the wrong address. They later threatened them, saying “things would escalate” if they didn’t leave the public road.

Keefe D is the uncle of Orlando Anderson, the primary suspect in the case. Anderson, who identified as a gang member, was fatally shot in 1998, two years after 2Pac’s murder. Since then, Keefe D has made several incriminating comments about his role in the murder. Consequently, investigators have had their eyes on him for years.

In a 2021 interview with Bomb1st, former bodyguard Reggie Wright Jr. suggested investigators were looking into Keefe D’s involvement and could possibly haul him off to jail for the crime.

When the interviewer mentioned there’d been an “uptick in activity” between the LVMPD and Keefe as law enforcement tries to “further the investigation,” Wright suggested Keefe D has cause to be nervous while confirming the police are in the midst of an active investigation.

“Let’s put it this way, I bet Keefe D [has] been having the runs for the last two weeks,” Wright responded at the time. “Because yeah, they are knocking on doors and there’s some activity.”

Keefe D himself copped to being an accomplice and in the car when Anderson allegedly fired the fatal shots during a 2021 sit-down with The Art Of Dialogue. Former Los Angeles Police Department detective Greg Kading reportedly found it “unfathomable” Keefe D hadn’t been arrested for 2Pac’s death.

“There is adequate probable cause to arrest Keefe D on conspiracy to commit murder charges, based on his numerous public confessions,” he told The Sun. “It would then be a decision of the District Attorney’s office to determine if the evidence is strong enough for prosecution. The police department can absolve itself from their responsibilities by arresting Keefe D and putting the responsibility on the DA, where it belongs.

“He’s making a mockery out of the justice system and the public perception is that Tupac’s murder case is of little interest to the LVPD. The optics on it are horrible. For history’s sake and for the sake of their own reputation, they ought to arrest Keefe D, clear the murder case and place the burden of responsibility onto the shoulders of the DA’s office. It’s that simple.”

Lil Kim Co-Signs GloRilla’s Recreation Of Infamous “Hard Core” Album Pose

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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Lil Kim is one of the most influential female rap artists in history. The Queen Bee has inspired modern-day acts like GloRilla who recently recreated Lil Kim’s iconic pose used as promotion for the Brooklynite’s classic 1996 debut studio LP, Hard Core. In addition, Glo quoted the “No Matter What They Say” single off The Notorious K.I.M. album.

“If I didn’t have a deal I’d still be worth some mills LEO SEASON APPROACHING,” GloRilla wrote as the caption for her Instagram photo carousel.

Lil Kim saw GloRilla paid homage to her on the social media platform. The Grammy winner responded to the online tribute in GloRilla’s Instagram comment section with a few emojis.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cuzl11cO40m/?img_index=2

GloRilla isn’t the first female rapper to re-enact Lil Kim’s famous photo. Before becoming an international superstar, Nicki Minaj promoted her 2008 Sucka Free mixtape with a Lil Kim-esque image.

Azealia Banks seemingly channeled Lil Kim for a Paper magazine cover in 2012. Recently, Coi Leray appeared to draw inspiration from the former Junior M.A.F.I.A. member for her self-titled sophomore album artwork.

GloRilla has been racking up co-signs from other female rap stars. In addition to Lil Kim publicly showing her love, Cardi B hopped on Glo’s “Tomorrow 2” record, a Top 10 hit in the United States.

2022’s “F.N.F. (Let’s Go)” served as GloRilla’s breakout hit. Latto and JT later jumped on a remix of the Grammy-nominated song. Plus, Glo and Latto linked up for “FTCU” last year as well.

Lil Kim’s comment on GloRilla’s Instagram Page

Snoop Dogg Backs Hollywood Strike, Questions How Streaming Companies Pay Musicians

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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Members of the Writers Guild of America (WGA) went on strike May 2. The Screen Actors Guild (SAG–AFTRA) joined on July 14. Now, Snoop Dogg is weighing in on the labor dispute over residuals from streaming services and other concerns.

As reported by Deadline, Snoop Dogg discussed the so-called “Hollywood Double Strike” at an event hosted by the Milken Institute. The Baby Boy actor called out the streaming platforms over their payouts to creators.

“The streaming gotta get their s### together because I don’t understand how the f### you get paid off of that s###,” Snoop Dogg reportedly said. “I mean, can someone explain to me how you can get a billion streams and not get a million dollars? That s### don’t make sense to me.”

He also added, “If you sold a million copies, that means 999, $9 million, you get this percentage, that’s what it is. So if I sell how many streams, how much money do I get? It’s not being translated and it’s not working for the artist right now.”

Snoop Dogg Says Music Acts Need To Follow WGA Writers’ Lead

Conversations about music streaming companies not properly paying artists for their work have been taking place for years. In 2014, Aloe Blacc scolded streamers after only making $4,000 on a song that collected over 168 million domestic streams.

“We need to figure that out the same way the writers are figuring it out—the writers are striking because [of] streaming, they can’t get paid,” Snoop Dogg said. “Because when it’s on the [streaming] platform, it’s not like in the box office.”

The Emmy Award winner added, “In the box office, if it does all these numbers you make it up, ‘Oh, it did this many, here’s another check.’ But on streaming, you got 300,000 hours that somebody watched your movie, where’s the money?”

Ebro Addresses Calling Out Drake For Not Speaking On Racial Issues: “That’s Not Who He Is”

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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Apple Music and Hot 97 personality Ebro Darden recently went viral recently for his remarks about Drake. The conversation centered around whether the Canadian rap superstar does enough to confront racial injustice.

Darden and his Rap Life Review co-hosts discussed Drake dissing Childish Gambino’s “This Is America” single. In particular, Darden took issue with Drake taking aim at a song that covered serious topics like race-related violence.

“Drake, who has never shown up, and y’all know I’m the biggest Drake fan on this show,” Darden said. “Drake has never shown up to have anything to say about anything going on in society with Black folks or anything other than himself.”

Social media users then began reacting to Ebro Darden’s comments. The longtime rap insider decided to further address the situation involving Drake on his Hot 97 morning radio show on Tuesday (July 18).

“By the way, I don’t know if I even want [Drake to give social commentary in his music],” Darden said. “That’s not who he is. I don’t think an artist is obligated, if you have a platform… but in this context, you’re talking about a song that did… now you’re in the fray.”

He added, “We love Drake for who Drake is. Drake’s talking about love, he’s very transparent personally. From what we can tell, he’s a nice person. He’s not a mean-spirited person. None of that. We don’t need him to be some social activist.”

Ebro Darden went on to say he felt the need to speak on Drake’s apparent lack of activism because of the “This Is America” takedown. Darden expressed, “Don’t come for the song that was saying something when we needed somebody to say something.”

Latto Partners With Wingstop For New Wing Flavor & Meal Bundle

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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Alyssa “Latto” Stephens continues to have a standout 2023. In addition to breaking streaming records, the Atlanta-raised rapper adds corporate partnerships to her list of accomplishments.

Latto is now one of the faces of the Wingstop chicken restaurant chain. The partnership includes a new wing flavor called Latto’s Lemon Herb Remix. Plus, Wingstop introduced The Latto Meal.

“You can’t beat this flavor don’t play with me!!! I crafted my very own Lemon Herb Remix flavor with Wingstop and it’s 10/10,” said Latto. “I’ve been obsessed and eating Wingstop for years.”

She added, “To order The Latto Meal just how I do, go with all flats in my signature flavor and all the ranch. It’s so good that you’ll be fighting over the last wing, just like my sister Brook and I do.”

Wingstop’s The Latto Meal features twenty-one classic wings in three flavors, a seasoned fry, and two dips for $26.99 nationwide. Plus, the 777 album creator appeared in a commercial for the brand.

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Latto’s “Put It On Da Floor” Is Now A Wingstop Anthem

“Wingstop fans crave our differentiated flavor, and as an emerging artist, Latto has brought her own differentiated flavor to the music industry,” said Anne Fischer, Wingstop’s Chief Growth Officer.

Anne Fischer proceeded to say, “We’re thrilled to bring this collaboration to life with Latto to bring flavor fans into Wingstop through big, bold flavor with the Lemon Herb Remix.”

Latto scored a Top 20 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Put It on da Floor Again” featuring Cardi B. This week also saw Latto earn the biggest streaming debut for a rapper in global Spotify history as a guest feature on “Seven” by Jung Kook.

Wingstop used Latto’s “Put It on da Floor Again” as the soundtrack for the Lemon Herb Remix ad. The single peaked at No. 13 on the Hot 100 chart. “PIODFA” placed at No. 6 on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and No. 3 on the Hot Rap Songs chart.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cu17BZTLFSB/?hl=en

Kevin Durant Helps Reveal 2023 All-RapCaviar Teams Featuring Drake, 21 Savage & More

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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13-time NBA All-Star Kevin Durant and his Boardroom media company announced the return of the All-RapCaviar teams. The annual campaign highlights some of the top rap stars who dominated Spotify’s premiere Hip Hop playlist.

“I love the opportunity to bring the sports and Hip Hop worlds together, and getting to bring Boardroom into the mix with this year’s All-RapCaviar campaign was a no-brainer,” stated Kevin Durant.

The former NBA Most Valuable Player added, “It was great to get the chance to mix it up with Taylor [Rooks], Boi-1da, and Hit-Boy, and I can’t wait to see the debates fans have about this year’s list.”

This year’s All-RapCaviar 1st Team consists of Metro Boomin, Drake, 21 Savage, Lil Uzi Vert, and Lil Baby. The 2nd Team is made up of Tyler, The Creator, Coi Leray, Lil Durk, Ice Spice, and Youngboy Never Broke Again.

For the 3rd Team, Spotify and the Boardroom named GloRilla, Central Cee, Nicki Minaj, Don Toliver, and NLE Choppa. Fans will also have the chance to vote for MVP and Rookie Of The Year beginning on July 19.

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RapCaviar Looks To Spark Conversation Among The Hip Hop & Basketball Communities

“All-RapCaviar is one of the ways we can contextualize the RapCaviar playlist and share our larger point of view on Hip Hop culture,” said Carl Chery, Spotify’s Creative Director and Head of Urban Music.

Carl Chery also added, “With our partners Kevin Durant and Boardroom, we’re celebrating the most notable artists on Spotify and sparking conversation within the Hip Hop and basketball communities.”

J. Cole, Polo G, Lil Durk, Drake, and Lil Baby made the 2021 First Team for All-RapCaviar. The 2022 edition included Kendrick Lamar, Future, Drake, Gunna, and Lil Durk as First Team selections.

In addition, Spotify has been celebrating Hip Hop culture’s 50th anniversary throughout 2023. For example, Post Malone, Drake, and the late XXXTENTACION topped the platform’s 50 Most Streamed Rap Songs list.

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Lil Durk Cancels Tour Dates & Rolling Loud Miami Appearance

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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Lil Durk had some of his fans concerned after the Chicago-bred rapper entered a hospital on July 6. Apparently, he needed treatment for severe dehydration and exhaustion.

“My fans mean everything to me, you’re the reason why I do this… I’ve become severely dehydrated and advised by my doctors not to travel due to exhaustion,” Lil Durk told TMZ last week. He also added, “Once I get my full energy back, it’s back to business which I’m looking forward to.”

There is now more unfortunate news for Lil Durk’s fanbase. According to multiple reports, the 30-year-old rhymer canceled dates of his “Sorry For The Drought Tour” as well as a booking at the Rolling Loud Miami festival. 

However, five tour dates have not been removed from his schedule. Durk is currently still on track to return home to Chicago in August for shows in the United Center. DJ Akademiks posted a statement from Lil Durk.

“Since I’m still [waiting] to get full clearance from my doctors to travel and perform again, I have no other choice but to cancel my headlining Rolling Loud performance,” read Lil Durk’s remarks.

The Almost Healed album creator continued, “While I’m home resting, I am looking forward to my two homecoming shows on the 11th & 12th in Chicago. For the rest of the country, I’ll be announcing new dates soon. #StillHealing.”

Almost Healed came out on May 26. Durk’s eighth studio album debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart by earning 125,000 first-week units. The project hosts the Billboard Hot 100 Top 10 hit “All My Life” featuring J. Cole.

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Son Of John Amos Faces Terroristic Threats Charge Amid Feud With Sister Over “Good Times” Actor’s Health 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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The son of John Amos has been arrested and charged with making terroristic threats towards his sister, Shannon.  

K.C. Amos was reportedly nabbed by police last weekend after sending troubling text messages to his sister, Shannon Amos. In documents obtained by TMZ, the 83-year-old actor’s daughter claims she feared for her life after receiving the DMs, which included images of guns.  

In addition, Shannon Amos claims her brother spoke on his supposed gang affiliations in the texts and sent a video showing off his shooting skills. “Gonna sleep much better tonight big sis,’ he wrote alongside a video of himself firing a handgun.  

A spokesperson for the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office stated that Shannon reports her brother has bipolar disorder. She claims the condition led K.C. to believe she hired somebody to kill him, and now she fears he may seek revenge.  

The family feud erupted last month amid concerns over the beloved “Good Times” actor’s heath. In a June 8 Instagram post, Shannon Amos claimed father’s life was “hanging by a thread” and was being treated in intensive care. She also leveled accusations of “elder abuse and financial exploitation,” urging her followers to donate to “a trust fund” she had set up for her father through GoFundMe.  

John Amos And Son Deny Shannon Amos’s Claims

However, her father later refuted her claims, denying he was in intensive care or that he was close to death. His son K.C. Amos also shot down his sister’s allegations in multiple social media posts. He claimed his father never organized the Go Fund Me and announced his upcoming documentary “America’s Dad.”  

In one video, John Amos is on the phone with an unidentified person. He tells the caller that his daughter “has taken advantage of me,” and says his previous health issues “had been corrected, or at least addressed.” He added, “She’s one that I would attribute my elderly [sic] abuse to.” 

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In a press release last month, Shannon Amos claimed that her brother no longer has the authority to make medical decisions for their father. 

“My priority has always been the safety, stability, and well-being of my father,” she said.   

“Removing Mr. Kelly K.C. Amos as medical power of attorney is an important step in the healing of my father and family. While I had hoped that this family matter could remain private, recent allegations accusing me of elder abuse and other false statements have forced me to take legal action.” 

K.C. Amos has not commented on news of his arrest. However, in an Instagram post Sunday, he thanked those “who stood by our side during the hurricane.”  

New Lil Baby Snippet Has Fans Debating Whether The ‘Yes Indeed’ Rapper Fell Off  

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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Lil Baby shared a snippet of a new song which sparked a debate amongst his fans on Twitter, with many suggesting his music isn’t hitting like it used to. 

Earlier this week (July 17), Teyana Taylor revealed she is working with Lil Baby as creative director of his It’s Only Us Tour on Monday (July 17). The announcement came just days after multiple tour dates were canceled. The move led to speculation that the dates were axed due to poor ticket sales. 

A day after Taylor announced her new role, Lil Baby reportedly lost one of his opening acts. The outlet claimed The Kid LAROI backed out of the tour without citing a reason.  

The past week hasn’t been all bad for the “Do We Have A Problem?” hitmaker, though. He received a boost over the weekend when soccer superstar Lionel Messi chose Lil Baby’s “The World Is Yours to Take” as his entrance music during his unveiling at Inter Miami Sunday night (July 16). 

However, after sharing a snippet of a new song, Lil Baby began trending on Twitter, but for all the wrong reasons. One suggested he was “0/8 this year,” with another stating he’s “been on a downward trajectory since Harder Than Ever.” 

https://www.instagram.com/p/Cu2gHH8vgxR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
https://twitter.com/RiscoSPM/status/1681434558032404480?s=20

Baby was trending alongside his former friend and collaborator Gunna, with fans comparing the two artists. While they were once close, they recently exchanged subliminal shots in their songs.  

“As a Gunna fan, watching y’all turn on Lil Baby is a little satisfying,” one said, while another insisted Baby will always be the better artist. “Gunna will never ever ever be better than Lil Baby,” one loyal fan added. Check out those tweets and other reactions below.  

https://twitter.com/JSP4PF/status/1681452706148544512?s=20
https://twitter.com/RiscoSPM/status/1681434558032404480?s=20
https://twitter.com/Unnnnnnnnck/status/1681459658702356488?s=20
https://twitter.com/JSP4PF/status/1681413256622100480?s=20
https://twitter.com/JSP4PF/status/1681438005930917888?s=20

Drake Declares Sexyy Red His “Rightful Wife” After Kissing “Pound Town” Rapper During Concert 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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Drake can’t decide whether rising St. Louis rapper Sexyy Red is his girlfriend, wife or future baby mama, but one thing is for sure, he likes being close to her.  

The “Pound Town” hitmaker was at the Brooklyn stop of Drizzy’s “It’s All A Blur Tour” Tuesday night (July 18). The rap superstar spotted her in the audience as he walked through the crowd while performing “God’s Plan.”  

Drake stopped to acknowledge her, pulling Sexyy Red in for a hug. “Look, they got my baby mama in here tonight,” he announced before planting a kiss on her cheek. He also shouted out his “brother,” Lil Yachty and “Twin,” U.K. rapper Central Cee. Check out the clip below. 

Meanwhile, after the show, Sexyy Red joined Drake backstage, and the two got pretty close. The St. Louis rapper shared a pair of photos from their intimate meeting on social media featuring the two rappers sharing a seat. Drake planted another smooch on Sexxy Red in one image and poked his tongue out for the camera in another.  

The “Rich Flex” hitmaker shared the photos on his Instagram Story and warned eager fans that his “girl” has her eyes on them. “If my girl see ya’ll backstage being thirsty it’s gonna get smokey,” he wrote. 

Instagram/Drake

However, Drake soon replaced the caption after upgrading Sexyy Red from girlfriend to spouse. “Just met my rightful wife,” he shared.

While Drake appears to be playfully teasing, it’s hard to be certain as he’s considered at least 42 other women as his potential other half. He memorialized each ex he once considered popping the question to in diamond form, commissioning a 351.38-carat white gold and diamond he branded “Previous Engagements.” 

Lil Jay Denies Kissing Inmate In Prison Video; Claims Footage Leaked To “Tarnish” Him After King Von Video 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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King Lil Jay is addressing the rumors surrounding his sexuality after a pair of videos surfaced online allegedly featuring the Chicago rapper kissing another inmate sitting on his lap. 

The clips were shared Tuesday evening (July 18), hours after the late King Von’s sexuality was called into question. Bodycam footage emerged online of Von behind bars asking to be placed in protective custody because of his sexual orientation. 

Lil Jay began trending on Twitter as users shared the leaked prison footage. In the video, an inmate with their hair in bunches sits on the lap of another inmate. They pair exchange tender touches before sharing a kiss. Many claim the seated inmate is King Lil Jay.  

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However, in a video shared on Instagram late Tuesday (July 18), Lil Jay denies being the man in the viral video and claims efforts are being made to “tarnish” his name in light of the recent allegations against King Von.  

“Soon as y’all put dude up actually saying some gay s### y’all would try to put me on there. Look at that s###,” Lil Jay stated. “Face don’t match, tattoos don’t match, body don’t match.” 

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The “Bars Of Clout 3” hitmaker spent several spells behind bars, most recently for a brief stint last April. Lil Jay was arrested and held on a $400K bond in 2015, charged with irresponsible firearm discharge. He was sentenced to 12 years in prison for that charge in 2019. He was released in 2022.

This isn’t the first time Lil Jay faced questions over his sexuality. He addressed the rumors in a 2022 video, insisting he is straight.  

Fans React After Fabolous Calls Out Music Industry For Not Supporting All Women In Rap

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News
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Fabolous grew up in the County of Kings during a time when female rappers were heard not just on the radio but also on mixtapes. So when he said the current landscape of music is pigeon-holding women in rap, he might have been on to something.

Over the course of his career, he has hopped in the studios with multiple female rappers, including fellow Brooklynites Lil’ Kim and Foxy Brown as well as Missy Elliott and Nicki Minaj.

On Sunday (July 16), Fab wrote on his Instagram Stories, “Love hearing the female rappers talking some real s##t. Women are so strong, [they] have so many stories and perspectives that we need to hear in pure form.

“No disrespect to any of the female rappers out, but I think there’s only one style of female rap/hip hop being promoted, programmed, and looked at as successful now.”

Fans started commenting on his opinion.

“He’s on point with this but, that’s what’s hot right now and as long as people buying it they going to keep selling it. Can’t knock the hustle,” one Twitter user commented.

While they agreed he was on point, people wanted to see what’s next.

“Y’all say this every 3-5 business days promote and support the women you want to see,” a young lady wrote.

“Okay can he share some artist he thinks are worth the attention? I’m sure he knows plenty..he could give them a platform rather than low key come for ppl not paying him any mind,” another person asked.

He obliged and rattled off names like Tierra Whack, Lady London and Rocky in his Instagram Stories.

One person hit him with, “Thanks for the thoughts gramps.”

But Fab isn’t hung up on how it was back in the day. He recently dropped a banger with Diddy, A Boogie Wit da Hoodie and Jeremih, representing three generations of rap. Check it out below.

Snoop Dogg And E-40 Bring Fans Into Kitchen With Collaborative Cookbook

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News
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Snoop Dogg connected with E-40 to cook up something other than music.

The legendary rappers created a new cookbook titled Goon with the Spoon. Chronicle Books will release the book on November 14.

“E-40 is my big homie, my brother, my mentor,” the Doggfather wrote in the foreword, per PEOPLE. “Watching him expand his love for food and cooking over the years to his many successful businesses is some boss-level s###. Which is why Snoop Dogg Presents Goon with the Spoon had to be the next cookbook, ya dig?”

The cookbook serves as the follow-up to Snoop Dogg’s From Crook to Cook: Platinum Recipes from Tha Boss Dogg’s Kitchen, which sold more than 1 million copies. His book with E-40 features 65 recipes for desserts, drinks, main dishes and more.

Snoop Dogg and E-40 most recently worked together as part of the supergroup Mount Westmore. The two joined forces with fellow West Coast icons Ice Cube and Too $hort to form the group.

Mount Westmore’s debut album Snoop Cube 40 $hort dropped in 2022. The project spent one week on the Billboard 200.

Goon with a Spoon is available now for pre-order. The cookbook continues Snoop Dogg’s food ventures, which include his Snoop Cereal line.

Metro Boomin Just Might Save Nicki Minaj Fans From New Music Drought

By: Devon Jefferson Updated Category: Rumors
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Nicki Minaj’s fans may be in for a treat amid her months-long album delay thanks to Metro Boomin. The multi-platinum producer has been web-slinging his way from within the Spider-Verse into the realm of all things Barbie by championing the Queen of da Barbz to cook up with him.

“Let’s make more [fire emojis],” Metro Boomin tweeted at Nicki Minaj seemingly out of nowhere on Monday (July 17).

While it appears Minaj is unaware of the request for her presence, as it most likely has subsided on her timeline under a sea of pink-tinged Barbie-related mentions, Young Metro’s persistence is bound to catch her eyes. But just how likely is it that the Atlanta native can reach the veteran New York rapper before she enters a reclusive spell? Breaking it down, the odds appear in his favor.

Metro’s most recent beaconing call to the Queen lyricist follows his inclusion of her bars on Young Thug’s chart-disrupting BUSINESS IS BUSINESS album via the Juice WRLD-assisted record “Money.” Nicki Minaj also just came through for Lil Uzi Vert for his colossal Pink Tape album cut, “Endless Fashion.”

The rapport between the pair is also already there, considering Metro Boomin showed out alongside Zaytoven in 2014 on the track “Want Some More,” which notably features lyrics from Metro’s iconic producer tag embedded within the chorus of the record—which lives on Nicki Minaj’s album The Pinkprint.

In essence, leaving Metro Boomin in charge of deliverables in the form of new music from Nicki Minaj for the masses might be our best bet. Even in spite of her bombshell announcement late last month that her Pink Friday 2 album will now arrive in November.

Barbz, y’all go do your thing, now.

Travis Scott And His “Peculiar Rituals” Cause Controversy In Egypt

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News
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Live Nation insists Travis Scott will perform in Egypt despite reports of Egyptian officials revoking his concert’s license.

Travis Scott is scheduled to perform at the Pyramids of Giza on July 28. Live Nation denied any cancellation on Tuesday (July 18). The concert promoter spoke out after the Egyptian Musicians Syndicate announced it would not grant permits for the event.

“There have been no changes to Travis Scott’s show in Egypt; any reports to the contrary are false,” Live Nation declared. “We can’t wait to celebrate ‘Utopia’ with you in Egypt – Live Nation & @Ticketsmarche @trvisXX.”

Egypt’s Musicians Syndicate, which issues licenses for concerts, revoked the license after a social media campaign sought to cancel Travis Scott’s concert. The syndicate raised concerns over his “peculiar rituals,” including supposed ties to Freemasonry.

“After examining social media opinions and feedback, as well as the news circulating on search engines and social media platforms, which included authenticated images and information about peculiar rituals performed by the star during his performance, contradicting our authentic societal values and traditions, the Syndicate’s president and board of directors have decided to cancel the license issued for hosting this type of concert, which goes against the cultural identity of the Egyptian people,” Dr. Mohamed Abdullah said in a statement translated by Egypt Today.

Travis Scott’s Egyptian concert quickly sold out this month. He planned to debut his Utopia album at the event.

YNW Melly Opts To Not Testify In Murder Trial; Defense Rests Its Case

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News
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Witness testimony wrapped up in YNW Melly’s double murder trial on Tuesday (July 18).

The defense rested its case after calling just one witness, YNW Melly’s friend Adrian Davis. The rapper decided to not testify on his own behalf.

YNW Melly is accused of killing YNW Juvy and YNW Sakchaser in 2018. The 24-year-old artist pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder charges.

Prosecutors said the rapper, whose real name is Jamell Demons, shot his friends while they were all inside the same vehicle. He allegedly staged a drive-by to cover up the murders.

YNW Melly’s defense claimed he was sleeping at home at the time of the murders. Davis insisted he was with the rapper at the time. Davis said the two woke up to the news of YNW Juvy and YNW Sakchaser’s deaths.

Leondra Phillips, the mother of YNW Juvy, scoffed at Davis’ testimony in a Facebook post.

“Sad case,” she wrote. “N#### get your lying ass off that stand.”

Closing arguments in the double murder trial take place on Thursday (July 20). The jury will be sequestered until they reach a verdict.

YNW Melly faces the death penalty if convicted. His alleged accomplice YNW Bortlen will be tried separately in October.

Wiz Khalifa Says He Was High On Mushrooms Before Throwing Pirates’ First Pitch

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News
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Wiz Khalifa told his Twitter followers he planned on being high when he tossed out the first pitch at Monday’s (July 17) Pittsburg Pirate game. Known for his appetite for cannabis, the “Black and Yellow” rapper didn’t care who knew he was going to be blitzed at the game.

“Finna get stoned af and throw this first pitch at the pirates game,” he tweeted before the game.

Khalifa followed up the tweet with another post, writing, “Shroomed out throwin a baseball is crazy.”

Wiz Khalifa’s hometown team was playing against the Cleveland Guardians at PNC Park. Throwing out the first pitch is a longstanding tradition in the Major Baseball League bestowed on someone worthy of tribute. But apparently, instead of being high off the honor, Khalifa wanted to zone out on psychedelics. And that he did.

Shortly after the pitch, he let his followers know he completed his “work for today.” He added a photo of some of the snacks he had to fulfill his munchies, including a box of Cracker Jacks.

As Khalifa threw out the first pitch, it seemed like he was spacing out and looking at everything all around him, seemingly keeping his Shroom High promise.