Kanye West is finally pushing back from all of the backlash he’ss received over the Donda Academy, the school he created in tribute to his late mother. According to RadarOnline, the music mogul is asking a judge to dismiss claims from two of his former employees, who’ve sued him for wrongful termination.
“Plaintiffs have haphazardly tossed a meritless and barebones guilt-by-association theory into their complaint to garner press attention and the resulting settlement pressure that comes with it,” Ye snapped in his reply.
As AllHipHop previously reported, Chekarey Byers and Cecilia Haley were the names of the teachers suing. The lawsuit details bizarre rules and practices at the academy, such as students eating sushi on the floor without tables or chairs, a ban on crossword puzzles and coloring sheets and Ye’s refusal to let students use forks or utensils or the second floor of the building because he’s supposedly scared of stairs.
Furthermore, the school allegedly lacked a janitor, school nurse and proper disciplinary procedures, resulting in unchecked bullying and physical assaults. Yeezy vehemently disputes all of the allegations leveled against him by Byers and Haley, the only “African American Teachers” who worked at the school.
Haley said while they were employed at the Donda Academy, they were both discriminated against because of their race. They also said the defendants, Ye and three directors at the newly formed institution fired them in retaliation for being outspoken concerns about education, health, safety code violations and violating the labor code.
No word on if the judge has dismissed the lawsuit.
Rap keeps rewarding Nicki Minaj‘s perspectives and her sharp wit is often lauded by her fans. Recently, she used her keen wordplay to blast Ben Shapiro regarding his “Pound Town 2” diss.
Yes, that is right. The booked and blessed rapper definitely allocated the time to address the scathing commentary. So Shapiro, a conservative columnist and political commentator, takes aim at what some are calling this summer’s anthem. Both facetious and condescending, his tone is not lost on the veteran entertainer.
As a matter-of-fact, the talking head attempts to spit Sexyy Red’s verse. Of course, it was trash. The mere attempted impersonation leaves a lot to be desired. In fact, Nicki Minaj refused to mince words.
Via her official Twitter account, she wrote, “Roman said leave his ass out of it sir! No pun intended,” a candid tweet forewarns. Of course, the outspoken artist has a bit more to offer.
Next time I’ll be sure to add my dick. So you can suk it. Love you 😛🥰😘 https://t.co/8DhIsoOLj2
Finally, this lyrical heavyweight pushes past all pleasantries and truly lays out her growing disdain. She offers, “Next time I’ll be sure to add my d***. So you can suk it. Love you.” A series of lovingly romanticized emojis are used to emphasize her point.
There it is. Nicki Minaj has never had an issue with expressing her opinion.
Monica is the latest recording artist to jump into podcasting. The Grammy Award-winning vocalist has just announced the launch of her MoTalk Radio show.
Monica’s MoTalk Radio will stream on Apple Music’s global live-streaming radio station Apple Music Hits. The limited radio series will focus on R&B from the 1990s and 2000s.DJ Baby Yu will curate the mixes.
“MoTalk is an outlet for artists, entertainers, musicians, politicians, athletes, and others to share their story, their way!” Monica said. “Being interviewed over the years has given me insight that allows me to tell the story respectfully, our truths are often diluted and distorted for the gain of others.”
The Miss Thang album creator added, “MoTalk brings that to an end, and gives creatives back their stories. Discussing hard topics, creating change, and highlighting the greats is key for me.”
Monica joins fellow Atlanta-bred recording artist Latto as a recent addition to the Apple Music podcast roster. Latto’s 777 Radio premiered in March with an interview with singer/actress Chlöe Bailey (Grown-ish, Swarm).
Monica Chats With An NBA Legend & A Country Music Star
The first episode of Monica’s MoTalk Radio features 4x-NBA champion/Basketball Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal. Country/R&B performer Mickey Guyton shows up on Episode 2 to talk about her Remember Her Name album.
Prior to taking on the role of MoTalk Radio host, Monica established herself as one of the leading voices of the 1990s and 2000s. She has three No. 1 singles in her catalog, including “The Boy Is Mine” with Brandy. That duet spent 13 weeks in the Billboard Hot 100’s No. 1 position.
“I’ve realized over the years that some people actually believed the record was true, shout out to Brandy, one of the greatest voices of our time, mine and Brandy’s tastes are complete polar opposites, so there was never really a boy for this song to be over,” Monica said during her show. “People believed there was a lot of history prior but there was not. A lot of the narrative that you saw was formulated based on the song and then it spewed into our real lives, but it never existed prior to.”
Coi Leray caught some heat from social media users for her Freshmen Freestyle and Freshman Cypher performances two years ago. Evidently, that sentiment still pops up on the Twitter timeline in 2023.
XXL announced the official 2023 Freshman Class on Wednesday (June 22). With the magazine presenting a new crop of rising stars, some people online began reflecting on previous selections for the coveted cover.
For example, one Twitter user posted, “Can we discuss why Coi Leray has the worst XXL Freshman Cypher ever?” The @Southside_Gunn account also uploaded a clip of Leray’s widely panned verse.
“And the only one who [is] top 10 global in the world right now with 3 songs on the Hot 100,” Coi Leray fired back at her critic. “This didn’t determine my journey, I always knew I was destined for greatness. Now look at me. Swimming in hits baby. Y’all [too] busy worried about what someone has to say. Clearly IDGAF.”
And the only one who top 10 global in the world right now with 3 songs on the hot 100. This didn’t determine my journey, I always knew I was destined for greatness . Now look at me. Swimming in hits baby. Y’all to busy worried about what someone has to say. Clearly IDGAF 🥰 https://t.co/R8YXI4FWbH
Coi Leray’s “Players” Became A Hit Around The World
Since 2021, Coi Leray managed to score several Top 40 entries on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Players” became her highest-charting song to date in America when it peaked at No. 9 in April.
2021’s “No More Parties” featuring Lil Durk made it to No. 26. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) has already certified “No More Parties” as 2x-platinum. Additionally, “Players” peaked at No. 17 on the Billboard Global 200 chart and No. 25 on the Billboard Global Excluding U.S. chart.
Coi Leray will release her sophomore studio LP, Coi, on Friday (June 23). That forthcoming project follows 2022’s Trendsetter, which only spent one week on the Billboard 200 chart after debuting at No. 89.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CsjX22wR0TK/?hl=en
Leray Previously Clapped Back At Critics Of Her Freestyle
This wasn’t the first time Coi Leray responded to negative critiques of her 2021 XXL Cypher and Freestyle. The New Jersey-raised entertainer also addressed the backlash around the time those videos made their way to YouTube that July.
“Somebody had to be the best and somebody had to be the worst. I just feel like, if I’m not gonna be the best freestyle, I’m just gonna have fun with my s### and do whatever makes me happy,” Coi Leray said in 2021. “If you put me in the booth with anybody on that XXL [cover], I guarantee ain’t nobody seeing me in the f###### studio, and that’s on me… I feel like people depend on XXL, that’s like their moment. I’m here forever. When you’re a superstar, it’s bigger than that.”
Why are the Hip-Hop police allegedly targeting Boosie Badazz? Well, these callous streets have a lot to say. In fact, they’re doing a lot of interesting talking.
Thus far, the tumultuous life of the enduring rapper is more than hectic. Yes, it rivals that of any Hollywood blockbuster. So, what should an artist do when his verisimilitude is too entrenched?
Keep in mind, this is the issue the Baton Rouge native must contemplate. Within Hip-Hop, the notion of keeping it real is paramount. However, when a prosecuting district attorney wants to use creativity to convict, confusion usually follows.
Be that as it may, the Louisiana lyricist is learning to stay within his artistic lane. While his actions reinforce his booth’s perspective, at the end of the day, he’s still an entertainer.
Currently, a plethora of previous problems seem to be plaguing Boosie. For some reason, even after paying a $50,000 bond, the rapper remains behind bars. Somebody ask Sway, what’s going on—after all, he allegedly does have all the answers, right?
Moreover, the F.B.I. may have Boozilla in its sites. Is a confidential informant, with some sort of crucial information, at the crux of this case? Additionally, the good folks at Hip-Hop Buddha do an in-depth exploration on what may be happening with Boosie.
Be sure to check out the video in its entirety. Are the Hip-Hop police, relying on confidential informants to set up Boosie Badazz?
Fans of 1980s-era R&B had the opportunity to see two of the biggest stars from that time period—Anita Baker and Babyface. That was until apparent friction led to so-called “R&Beef.”
Babyface addressed the situation during a recent episode of The Jason Lee Show. The 67-minute conversation included the 11x-Grammy winner taking the high road when discussing his musical contemporary.
“Well, that was a complicated evening,” Babyface said about the day he learned he would no longer perform on Anita Baker’s tour. “First of all, I have no problem being a support act for Anita Baker. I have much love and respect for her art. And it was her show.
“I have no issue with that. I think that I was looking as forward to watching Anita Baker every night as well because I love her as a writer and as an artist. It’s a beautiful experience.”
Babyface also denied supposedly gaslighting his online followers to cyberbully Anita Baker. Additionally, the co-founder of LaFace Records went on to announce his own headlining tour is on the way.
“Yeah, we’re putting something together because everybody’s asking for it. So let’s do that,” stated Babyface on hitting the road in the near future. His ninth studio album, Girls Night Out, arrived in October 2022. Ari Lennox, Kehlani, Queen Naija, and other female artists appear on the project.
“After silently, enduring [cyberbullying]/verbal abuse and threats of violence from the fan base, of our special guest/support act, in the interest of personal safety, I will continue ‘The Songstress Tour’ alone,” Baker tweeted on June 13.
In response, Babyface posted, “I am saddened by the news that Anita Baker has decided to remove me from ‘The Songstress Tour.’ It’s unfortunate and disheartening to see how things have played out via social media. While I was looking forward to the rest of the dates, I have nothing but love and respect for Anita and I wish her the best for the remainder of her tour.”
Ice Spice catapulted herself from viral sensation to Met Gala attendee in a matter of months. With three Top 10 songs in 2023, the Bronx native is an early contender for the year’s Best New Artist.
Ice Spice broke out last year with her “Munch (Feelin’ U)” track. By June 2023, the songs “Boy’s a Liar Pt. 2” with PinkPantheress (No. 3), “Princess Diana” with Nicki Minaj (No. 4) and “Karma” with Taylor Swift (No. 2) made it into the Billboard Hot 100’s Top 10 region.
It may have come as a surprise for some Ice Spice fans when they learned she wasn’t included in the 2023 XXL Freshman Class. According to TMZ, the 23-year-old Capitol recording artist passed on the chance to be part of the magazine’s annual cover.
Ice Spice reportedly made the decision to miss being a Freshman due to her busy schedule, which includes upcoming festival dates and guest feature appearances.
Ice Spice could join a list of prominent up-and-comers who missed out on the XXL Freshman issue but still went on to reach superstar status. Drake, Nicki Minaj, Tyler, The Creator, Post Malone, Cardi B and others never made it onto the cover for various reasons.
While Ice Spice seemingly rejected the 2023 XXL Freshman Class opportunity, the magazine recognized several other rising rhymers. Finesse2tymes, Lola Brooke, Rob49, Fridayy, GloRilla, 2Rare, SleazyWorld Go, Central Cee, Real Boston Richey, Luh Tyler, TiaCorine and DC The Don make up the 2023 class.
Meek Mill has a lot of people on social media reacting to one of his takes once again. This time, the Philadelphia-bred rapper went viral for sharing his thoughts on the lost OceanGate submarine.
OceanGate provides undersea travel to view the wreck of the Titanic ship using submersibles. According to reports, the United States-based company’s Titan submersible disappeared off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada on June 18.
Five people are said to be on board the Titan, including British-Pakistani businessman Shahzada Dawood and his 19-year-old son Suleman Dawood. News outlets from around the world have been covering the incident over the last four days.
Meek Mill apparently took issue with how the press is reporting on the Titan and its missing passengers. The 36-year-old Expensive Pain rapper tweeted his response to some of the latest information about the incident.
“I can’t see a wealthy man doing this with no extreme backup plans… with your son, not saying it’s fake but the way y’all run the same clips in [the] media not even working on the average minds anymore… all types of stuff going on in the world, y’all headlining with no real info lol,” posted Meek Mill.
The United States Coast Guard, United States Navy and Canadian Coast Guard have been taking part in search and rescue efforts for OceanGate’s Titan. It’s possible the submersible’s breathable air supply will run out by Thursday morning (June 22).
I can’t see a wealthy man doing this with no extreme back up plans….with your son, not saying it’s fake but the way y’all run the same clips in media not even working on the average minds anymore…all types of stuff going on in the world y’all headlining with no real info lol https://t.co/ekr2NbY3ej
When the notoriously social media-phobic Stormzy returned to Instagram earlier this week, his fans began eagerly anticipating the arrival of something exciting, and the British rap legend didn’t disappoint.
After a lengthy hiatus, Stormzy popped back up on Instagram Monday (June 19) with a photo dump. Among the images was a snippet of a new track, the first hint that fresh music is incoming.
“Wagwannnnnnn you lil pussyholes,” he captioned his post.
Stormzy returned two days later to tease a new song. He shared a clip of the audio captioned only by the talking head emoji.
“If I see a boy with the same kettle as me then I toss that thing in the safe/Won’t wear it again ’cause you made it (Bait), Stormzy raps on the snippet. “If your name ain’t Fred then you can’t relate/If your name ain’t Santan, you ain’t my mate/If your name ain’t Stormz then you ain’t the (Meh-eh).”
Then on Wednesday (June 21), the “Mel Made Me Do It” hitmaker finally announced his new single, “Toxic Trait” featuring fellow U.K. rap star Fredo. The track is scheduled for release on Thursday (June 22) and will be accompanied by a video.
In a clip shared by the duo, Fredo sits opposite a therapist while discussing his toxic traits. “I just got too many man, I don’t even know where to start,” he admitted. “I feel like I don’t make things easy on myself to be honest. Whether that’s big things like the company I keep or small things like not using toenail clippers.”
Missy Elliott is opening up about her mental health in a candid interview, discussing her battles with anxiety and depression and imploring others to be more vocal about their struggles.
In an Essence cover story published on June 20, Missy Elliott said that while “a lot of things were brushed up under the rug for me growing up,” the isolation of the pandemic meant she “had so much time to just think of childhood stuff, and all kinds of stuff.”
The 4x-Grammy Award winner also reflected on a two-year low period she experienced over a decade ago, exacerbated by her battle with the autoimmune condition Graves’ disease.
“Now I’m fine with being like, ‘Hey, I got anxiety’ or ‘I went through depression,’” Missy stated. “Even the biggest artist, or just the regular everyday working person, we all go through s###. We all do. And it’s okay to say, ‘Hey, I’m not okay today.’ Probably we would keep a lot of people around if we were that open, because we would be able to uplift each other.”
She continued, “We’d know that I’m not going to look at you crazy if you say, ‘Hey, I’m having a rough day.’ Maybe you’re thinking things that you shouldn’t think, or whatever the case may be.”
Missy Elliott Discusses Her Mental Health Battles With Her Peers
Missy Elliott also revealed an unnamed male peer (“Timbaland is my brother, but it’s not him”) is a source of support.
“I had a peer of mine say, ‘Hey, look, I’ve been through the same thing,’” she added. “And he was just like, ‘Next time I see you, I’m going to put a mirror in front of your face, so you can remember who you are and all that you’ve done.’”
In 2015, Missy Elliott admitted her anxiety was so crippling that she had a full-blown panic attack and required medical attention before her Super Bowl halftime cameo performance the same year.
“Like, IVs in my arm, everything,” she told Billboard. “Nobody knew.”
Cardi B and the stepson of a billionaire missing on the Titan submersible, Brian Szasz, got into it on social media after the Bronx rapper voiced her opinion on reports the man was out enjoying a concert during the rescue mission. A search is currently underway for the five passengers on the submersible, who have been missing since Sunday (June 18).
The stepson of one of the passengers received a lot of attention online after revealing he went to a blink-182 concert. In a now-deleted Facebook post, Szasz acknowledged “It might be distasteful” but claimed his family “would want” him to attend the show. He also made headlines for shooting his shot with an OnlyFans model, responding to a racy request.
Cardi B Blasts Szasz For Attending Concert
Cardi B was unimpressed at the man living his best life while his stepfather and the others are lost.
“Yes, you supposed to be at the house sad,” Cardi B said during an Instagram Live Wednesday (June 21). “You’re supposed to be crying for me, you supposed to be right next to the phone waiting to hear any updates about me.”
She continued, “Isn’t it sad that you a whole f###### billionaire and nobody gives a f### about you? Like, you missing, and m############ is ready to shake d#### at concerts. That’s crazy. I’d rather be broke and poor but knowing that I’m loved.”
Brian Szasz caught wind of her comments and took to Twitter to fire back at Cardi B.
“What a pos trashy celeb,” he wrote. “Cardi B trying to get clout off me and my families suffering. I went to a Blink 182 concert for coping rather than sitting at home and watching the news. Shame on you Cardi get some class!”
He also added a follow-up tweet. “Cardi B we know all your latest releases are trash. But is your career this desperate for attention now??”
Cardi B responded to one post, accusing the man of clout chasing.
“The point was the whole world is praying for these people in the submarine and this man son is online shaking d#### for girls off onlyfans and going to Blink 182 concerts,” she said. “You was looking for clout all along. Nobody knew who you were until you said that was ya stepdad!!! This is why people hate you spoiled brat billionaires yall soo desensitize.”
The point was the whole world is praying for these people in the submarine and this man son is online shaking d#### for girls off onlyfans and going to Blink 182 concerts. You was looking for clout all along, nobody knew who you were until you said that was ya stepdad!!! This is… https://t.co/FQ8pfR55Ob
Cardi B and Tasha K are beefing again on social media despite settling their dispute in court last year.
In a Twitter Space chat, The “Tomorrow 2″ hitmaker accused Tasha of “embezzling.” Cardi claimed she hired a private investigator to look into Tasha K’s financial affairs after a judge ruled the YouTuber must pay $4 million in the defamation lawsuit.
“You’re embezzling!” Cardi yelled. “Yeah b####, you embezzling. You’re going to go to jail!”
The feud reignited on Wednesday (June 21) when Cardi B weighed in on the missing Titanic submersible passengers. She called out the stepson of one of the passengers for attending a concert amid the rescue mission.
“People was like, ‘Uh what is he supposed to do, be sad at the house?” she tweeted. “Is he supposed to go look for him himself?‘ Yes. You supposed to be at the house sad. You supposed to be crying for me, you supposed to be right next to the phone waiting to hear any updates about me.”
However, her nemesis soon added her own opinion, citing Cardi’s reaction to Takeoff’s death last year.
“Wasn’t she posting guns right after Takeoff died?” Tasha K wrote in The Neighborhood Talk comment section. “And on the internet, cutting up not long after his sudden takeoff? I’m just asking…Everyone grieves diff.”
When Cardi B caught wind of the tea blogger’s response, she clapped back, furious at the mention of Takeoff. She also accused Tasha K of financial skullduggery to avoid paying the $4 million.
“And Tasha K with your despicable ass.. to bring up Takeoff to prove a fake ass point is disgusting,” she began. “I lost weight, I couldn’t eat, I couldn’t sleep, me and my man STILL dealing wit that to to this day. I’m a rapper, we targeted all the time so of course I have guns for protection. But since you wanna be funny for comments, ima make sure your kid don’t go to college. You think my lawyers don’t know you hiding money in Africa? Ima make sure I get every red cent of my 4 mill. DONT EVER PUT TAKEOFF NAME IN YA MOUTH.”
And Tasha K with your despicable ass.. to bring up Takeoff to prove a fake ass point is disgusting. I lost weight, I couldn’t eat, I couldn’t sleep, me and my man STILL dealing wit that to to this day. I’m a rapper, we targeted all the time so of course I have guns for… pic.twitter.com/pCGYonz6zq
Cardi B also took to The Neighborhood Talk comments section to clarify her tweet.
“Y’all saying I’m talking about people kids.. I’m talkin about how her mouth is going to affect financials for YEARS all because she can’t stop talking,” Cardi wrote. “But I’m wrong for saying that but it’s cool for her to bring up my family we lost less than a year ago? Yall saw me waving a gun after take passed or literally months later on put it on the floor music video? But let me guess I’m wrong as always.”
Meanwhile, Tasha K continued trolling Cardi B over Takeoff. She posted a video of herself on Instagram hiding behind a door. She added the slain rapper’s name in the caption and even used “Messy” by Takeoff and Quavo as the backing track.
Boosie Badazz is calling for action from behind bars, accusing prosecutors of “total misconduct” for what he claims is a refusal to respect the judge’s decision to grant him bond in his federal gun case.
The Baton Rouge, Louisiana native was arrested on June 14 and held on multiple gun charges. Among them, “felony possession of a firearm and transporting firearms across highways.”
Boosie was expected to be released from federal custody after Judge Allison Goddard awarded bail on June 20.
But Boosie is still locked up, and he’s blaming the prosecutor, who he claims is “racist” and has “evil intentions” towars him. In a desperate plea on social media, Boosie called for his followers to protest his continued detention.
“After the judge has granted me a bond, and I paid my full cash amount the prosecution refuse to respect the judges decision to let me go,” Boosie wrote via Twitter on Wednesday night (June 21). “They showed no evidence of me being a flight risk or a danger to the community.”
Boosie Badazz Calls For Protests And Prayers
Boosie Badazz added, “The prosecutor Mr. wheat looked at me singing Wipe Me Down, wiped his shoulders and shook his head with a look of evil in his eyes. This is total misconduct from a prosecutor. He is racist and has evil intentions. Now they filed an appeal asking another judge to keep me in prison. I need the people of San Diego outside the court tomorrow to protest the injustice that is being done to me.”
Boosie then called on “ALL prayer warriors across the world” to pray for the prosecutor’s removal. “Even my attorneys have never seen nothing like this in their career. Help Me Fight this Injustice and say a prayer for my freedom tomorrow.”
Read his entire statement below.
After the judge has granted me a bond, and I paid my full cash amount the prosecution refuse to respect the judges decision to let me go. They showed no evidence of me being a flight risk or a danger to the community. The prosecutor Mr. wheat looked at me singing Wipe Me Down,…
André 3000 apparently has a solo album in the works that’s nearly ready to see the light of day. During a recent interview with Sway Calloway, Killer Mike—who collaborated with 3 Stacks on the single “Scientists & Engineers” from his new solo album Michael, confirmed the almost unbelievable news.
In a clip making the rounds on Instagram, Calloway says, “What I’m hearing is Dre got an album coming,” to which Killer Mike replies, “Yeah, I think we fly out in a couple weeks to go listen to it.”
Calloway says, “Wow, that’s amazing. André 3000 got an album coming.” When someone mentioned he thought they were joking, Calloway says, “Nah, he said he played him nine tracks of stuff he already he had. That mean Dre sitting on volumes of songs.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/CtxFpqnOtt8/?hl=en
André 3000 and Killer Mike’s Dungeon Family cohort and Goodie Mob member Big Gipp re-shared the post from an account called Butter.ATL and got his Hip-Hop peers understandably excited.
The D.O.C. commented, “It has begun,” while DJ Hurricane of Beastie Boys fame wrote, “Good news.” Needless to say, word is spreading across the Hip-Hop community—and quickly. After all, André 3000 has been wandering around the globe playing his flute and minding his own business, seemingly set on leaving his rap career behind him.
Outkast, meanwhile, hasn’t released an album since 2006’s Idlewild, following a run of albums that includes multiple hip-hop classics—from Southernplayalisticadillacmuzik (1994) and ATLiens (1996) to Aquemini (1998) and Stankonia (2000).
Swipe on the Instagram post above to watch the clip.
Philthy Rich avoided a prison sentence for making a false statement in acquisition of a firearm. According to the Mercury News, Judge James Mahan sentenced the Bay Area rapper to two years of probation in a Nevada court on Wednesday (June 21). Philthy Rich, whose real name is Phillip Beasley, pleaded guilty to a federal gun charge in May.
“We’re very gratified that the judge recognized the many contributions that Mr. Beasley has made to the community and the fact that he has remained trouble-free over the two-and-a-half years since this event occurred,” his lawyer David Chesnoff said.
Philthy Rich recruited a woman named Jasmine Garcia to illegally purchase guns from a Las Vegas shop in 2021. A prior conviction didn’t allow him to possess firearms.
Garcia accepted a plea deal and was sentenced to time served. Prosecutors sought a 30-year prison sentence for Philthy Rich. The prosecution said he was “no stranger to the criminal justice system” and complained about sentencing for his past convictions.
“Despite his persistent criminal conduct, Beasley has been repeatedly awarded lenient sentences,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Frierson wrote in a sentencing memo.
The judge sided with Philthy Rich’s attorneys, who pushed for no time behind bars. The veteran rapper praised his lawyers on Instagram Stories.
It’s not every day Drake shouts you out ina livestream, but LAVI$H makes it look real easy.
Hailing from Zambia but raised in Winnipeg, the rising star arrives on the scene with his own unique sound, style, and swag. While he’s been enthralled with music since he can remember, it wasn’t until he was discovered by Chubbs from Drake’s OVO Sound imprint when things really started to kick into gear… and he’s incredibly humbled by it all.
While LAVI$H used to rap, Drake’s “Headlines” was the first ever Hip Hop/R&B song he ever heard. He now describes his sound as “timeless and refreshing, sometimes even genreless.” LAVI$H explains, “You can’t really pinpoint the genre of music that I make sometimes, I don’t like to be put in one thing.”
Now, the 25-year-old signs to Def Jam, releasing his highly-anticipated debut project titled You Made A Big Mistake. The seven-track project is spearheaded by lead singles “Big Mistake” and “World In My Hands.”
AllHipHop spoke with LAVI$H virtually, who was located in Toronto. Read below as we discuss his love for music, how Chubbs discovered him, Drake shouting him out, the new project, opening for PARTYNEXTDOOR, goals, and more!
AllHipHop: When did you fall in love with music?
LAVI$H: Honestly, I fell in love with music when I was 10, 11 years old. My first time ever hearing music, any artist of any genre, it was Billy Talent. I was introduced to Drake by my sister. “Headlines” was the first ever Hip Hop, R&B melody type of music that I ever heard from any artist. That’s cool that we have a connection now, he was the first ever R&B type rap artist that I’d ever heard.
AllHipHop: I know Chubbs discovered you, but before that, when did you know you wanted to do music for a living?
LAVI$H: So in my African community back in Winnipeg, we throw a lot of parties. Our parents would throw a lot of parties, whether it’s somebody’s birthday or somebody’s graduation. You just always loved throwing parties. African parties go forever, until 4 o’clock in the morning. While the party’s going on, I’d always see my cousins freestyling by some stand, or somewhere outside or beside the building. I never wanted to jump in because I was always so scared.
One day, I jumped in. It was terrible, but they were super nice to me. My two cousins had a studio and I knew they were artists. First of all, I asked their parents if I could come over to the house and make music, because I knew they would say no. The first song I ever made was at their house. I gave myself a name. I called myself Kid Crew, because I wore a lot of crewnecks when I was younger. [laughs] That’s when I first started falling in love with music.
AllHipHop: How’d you get the name LAVI$H?
LAVI$H: I gave myself the name LAVI$H after 1500 names. It’s more so the voices that I’m able to sing in. I can sing in a deeper voice, in a high voice, in a falsetto voice. I can do all different sorts of things with my voice, and also my heart. I take pride in being a good person. It’s more so what’s inside that is lavish, rather than outside. It’s not the whole lavish lifestyle thing. It’s more so what’s inside of me, that makes me LAVI$H.
AllHipHop: How did Chubbs discover you? What did that mean to you?
LAVI$H: It was crazy. I have my friend, business partner, and photographer Astral, and this other guy works at OVO named Whoa. It was 2019, they were shopping my music around to different people. I had no idea, I didn’t know they were doing this. One of the people that they’d sent music to Chubbs. They were sending him rap records, R&B and trap records. One day just before New Years, they sent him the song I did back in my parent’s basement called “Somebody.”
It was the first song I ever sang in falsetto. It wasn’t the best singing, but I made it feel like there was the best singing because I knew how to mix and master. I knew how to do this, so I made it sound amazing. He heard that from Astral and Whoa. He hit me up on New Years of 2020 like, “whenever you’re ready to work, I’m here, I’m ready to go.” At first, I didn’t believe it was him. Because why is this guy that works with this other guy that I looked up to, the first artist that I ever heard, why is he hitting me up? What do I have that’s so special? It was surreal.
But going back to the messages, looking at the name and putting two and two together, yo this is Chubbs. This is happening. From there, he invited me over to a pool party. It was somebody’s birthday. Before I knew Chubbs, I knew him as this strong, standoff-ish Chubbs. The Chubbs that we know. I met him at the pool party, the way he said hi. His voice was just a shock to me. He’s like, “hey man, how you doing?”
I stood back like wait, this is not the same person. But it was. He flew me to Drake’s properties and we started working there. Worked there for a couple months, that’s when we started building EP out. We started working on the EP, working on the songs and forming a relationship.
AllHipHop: As someone that listens to Drake, what did that mean to you?
LAVI$H: It was surreal. Either before or after I signed to Chubbs, we were at a house in LA. It was a party. Chubbs texted me like “yo, Drake’s coming.” He comes, I go find somewhere to sit. By myself, because I don’t want anyone around me. If he comes up to me, by myself. No distractions, but not thinking it’s going to happen. Next thing you know, I get a tap on my shoulder and it’s Drake.
I don’t know why I did this, I look up and then I look down. Then I look up again. [laughs] He’s like, “what’re you doing?” We had a little conversation. I introduced myself, we had a great talk. That right there meant everything to me. Not that meeting Chubbs and building a relationship with Chubbs didn’t make it real, but meeting Drake and all the other guys that made it even more real.
AllHipHop: I saw Drake shout you out recently, how did that feel?
LAVI$H: He was on Live with Stake, doing the betting that he does. He mentioned some artists that he’s listening to, I was one of the artists that came up. That was almost… it didn’t feel real. Because, in the moment, he’s saying my name. I kept repeating that in my head, I’m trying to take it in. It was so much, I couldn’t take it in until the next day. You got everybody hitting me up, you got management saying this. You got people commenting, “Drake shouted you out!” Oh my goodness, it was a lot. But it felt amazing. I’m finally doing something and somebody I look up to sees what I’m doing as valid.
AllHipHop: Definitely want to talk about You Made A Big Mistake, debut EP out now. Why did you name it that?
LAVI$H: People think it’s for a specific reason, I guess it is. I really named it that title for people to relate to. That title and the songs are for people’s perception, however they relate to You Made A Big Mistake is how I want them to. Because it’s such a broad, vast term that it’s easy for people to relate to.
AllHipHop: Who or what inspired “World In My Hands”?
LAVI$H: “World In My Heads” was inspired by someone very special, very close to my heart. A special somebody.
AllHipHop: A girl?
LAVI$H: Yeah. [laughs] A girl. A woman.
AllHipHop: How does she feel that the song’s about her?
LAVI$H: She loves it, one of her favorite songs. She couldn’t wait until it was out. She’s been asking me to put that out forever, but we had to deal with the paperwork. Now, she finally gets to listen to it. Because I played it for her before, but I couldn’t really send it. [laughs]
AllHipHop: How was it opening for PARTYNEXTDOOR?
LAVI$H: I did DVSN first, then PARTYNEXTDOOR a couple weeks ago. That was my most nervous nervous show I’ve ever had. Right before I’m supposed to go on, I had no idea that Drake was there. I had no idea Baka was there. I thought it was just me, my friend Savannah Re, that’s it.
AllHipHop: I love Savannah!
LAVI$H: Right before I go on, they show me whoever’s on the bill. They show me that and this rainfall of anxiety poured onto me. I’m walking out on stage, I was shaking. I’m gripping the mic with my dear hands. But once I was out there, it was amazing. I have to do this, it doesn’t matter who’s here. This is my opportunity to shine, to show them under pressure. It was amazing. Super amazing.
AllHipHop: Any goals for yourself?
LAVI$H: Definitely, to become everything I’ve always ever dreamt of. I want to sell out Madison Square Garden one day. I want to perform alongside a lot of these artists that I look up to. I want to do an album with Adele, an album with Morgan Wallen. I want to do an album with Drake, a full body of work. I want to take care of my loved ones, I want everyone to be good. I want to be that for everybody else. I want to be the person they can come to. Whether it’s personal or financial, I’ll be there.
AllHipHop: What are you excited for coming up?
LAVI$H: I have a tour. I’m going on tour with Tamia in South Africa. Very, very soon. We’re going to Cape Town, Johannesburg, and somewhere else in front of 10K people. I’m super nervous, so wish me luck. While I’m there, I’m going back to Zambia to see my family. Back to Congo to see my other family, so that’s super exciting. I’m going to the UK. I have a Toronto show coming up, I’ll give you the details on that too. It’s a lot of exciting stuff.
AllHipHop: Last question, how’s your family reacting to all this?
LAVI$H: You know, not to say they weren’t supportive before. They’re always going to be supportive, parents are always going to support the kids. But now that this is the only thing I’m doing and it’s good music. [laughs] For one, it’s really good music. Before, I wasn’t making the best music. I’ll take that. But now it’s really really good music. They’re seeing me with these celebrities, in the spotlight. They love it, they’re very supportive of it. I get calls from kids 12 years old talking about “can I have some OVO gear? Can I meet Drake? Can I meet Sevyn Streeter?” [laughs] It’s amazing.
CFN Denero, a talented hip-hop artist from Oak Cliff, Dallas, Texas, has overcome adversity to create music that is both raw and authentic. Born and raised in this neighborhood, he has experienced first-hand the struggles that come with growing up in a tough environment. However, his passion for music has always been a constant in his life, and after a three-year incarceration, he emerged with a renewed focus on his art.
CFN Denero is the founder of Came From Nothing Muzik Group, and he is poised to make his mark on the hip-hop world. His music is characterized by its honesty and authenticity, and he is quickly gaining recognition for his captivating sound. His lyrics are infused with personal experiences, and his unique style sets him apart from other artists in the industry.
Despite his setbacks, CFN Denero has remained determined to succeed. He is standing on business and focused on his music, using his experiences as inspiration for his work. He is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of hard work. With his raw talent and captivating style, CFN Denero is ready to claim his place in the world of hip-hop.
As he rises from the ashes of his past, CFN Denero is a shining example of what it means to overcome adversity and achieve success. His music is a testament to his strength, and his story is an inspiration to others who may be facing their own struggles. Watch out for CFN Denero as he takes the hip-hop world by storm.
Coi Leray claimed she would turn down an opportunity to work with Eminem unless she received the blessing of her father Benzino, who feuded with Slim Shady for years.
The Republic Records artist discussed her dad’s beef with Eminem on Math Hoffa’s My Expert Opinionpodcast. Coi Leray was asked what she would do if Eminem asked her to collaborate, prompting her to reflect on the hypothetical scenario.
“I would sit down with my father, first of all, and bring it up to him,” she said. “I wouldn’t even ask. I’d be like, ‘Yo, listen. This is what happened. I’m not even expecting an answer. I just need to tell you right away.’”
Coi Leray continued, “Me and my father could never be speaking for f###### years. If that was to happen, I’d be like, ‘Hold on, let me just tell you this. Let me bring it to your attention.’ And hopefully, he’ll be like, ‘Yo, you know what? Do it.’”
The 26-year-old rapper called rap beef “corny” while admitting she wasn’t old enough to completely understand her father’s problems with Eminem. Coi Leray maintained she’s not an Eminem fan but praised 8 Mile and recalled liking a few of his songs.
Cam’ron mocked Scottie Pippen over a report about the former NBA champion’s ex-wife Larsa Pippen, who allegedly secured a cut of the basketball great’s retirement plan.
Killa Cam said Scottie Pippen gave the Dipset member O.J. Simpson vibes in an Instagram post on Wednesday (June 21). Cam’ron taunted the Basketball Hall of Famer in reaction to aRadar Online story, which revealed divorce settlement details. The report claimed Larsa Pippen received 50 percent of her ex-husband’s 401k from his playing career with the Chicago Bulls.
“Nah we gotta watch scotty he on a mission!!” Cam’ron wrote. “After having to give up half, he put on Black AF1’s?! (Tried to throw us off with the bubble gum bottom…nahhh homie) Spotted at the airport carousel? N###as better check that bag he getting. #Beware Scotty giving me #OJvibes.”
Cam’ron and Ma$e previously clowned Scottie Pippen on an episode of their sports talk show It Is What It Is. The rappers laughed at Scottie Pippen for discrediting Michael Jordan’s career after MJ’s son Marcus Jordan started dating Larsa Pippen.
“He aging bad off this s###!” Killa Cam said regarding Scottie Pippen. “His skin is starting to get craters and s###. This s### is f###### him up!”
Check out Cam’ron and Ma$e discussing Scottie Pippen below.
Ne-Yo was reportedly hit with a $3 million lien in back taxes from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). According to Radar Online, the singer and producer responsible for songs by Rihanna, Jennifer Hudson, Beyoncé, Mario, New Kids on The Block, Pitbull and so many more, owes the government $3,166,811.68 for the year 2020. Though the hits are still coming in, Ne-Yo—whose estimated net worth is $9 million— simply can’t keep up with his finances.
This IRS lien is separate from the lien he and his ex-wife Crystal Smith received from Crowe Custom Countertops. The company claims the couple never paid them for work they commissioned on their Alpharetta, Georgia property and the $4,000 lien they received from the City of Atlanta.
For years, Ne-Yo has been openly voicing his financial woes, as noted by AfroTech. Last year he said he “lost approximately $400,000 in wages associated with public appearances, professional bookings and promotional efforts related to the promotion of his new musical project” because of unfavorable interviews with TMZ and television producer Carlos King.
His financial insecurity comes only a few years after the recording artist was able to get $6.4 million from his accountant and business manager, Kevin Foster. In 2019, Foster was found guilty of a slew of white-collar crimes including wire fraud, money laundering and tax evasion by the Department of Justice. In addition to paying Ne-Yo, Foster also paid $151,675 to another singer, Brian McKnight.
