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Young Thug Releasing New Album From Behind Bars With Help Of Metro Boomin

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News

Young Thug awaits trial in the YSL RICO case, but his legal troubles aren’t stopping him from dropping music.

The embattled rapper revealed the imminent release of a new album titled Business Is Business on Thursday (June 22). He tagged Metro Boomin in the announcement.

“BUSINESS IS BUSINESS TONIGHT,” Young Thug declared via Instagram. “@metroboomin let’s go.”

Metro Boomin confirmed the album’s release in his own Instagram post.

“BUSINESS IS BUSINESS THE ALBUM AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE TONIGHT!!” he wrote. “DROP SOME [fire emojis] IF YOU READY. #FREETWIN I LOVE YOU BRO.”

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A post shared by Young Metro 3 Times 💔 (@metroboomin)

Last week, Young Thug teased the project by sharing a QR code on social media. Business Is Business will be his first album since 2021’s Punk.

Young Thug remains in jail with no start date in sight for the YSL RICO trial. Jury selection began in January, but no jurors have been seated over the past six months.

The 300 Entertainment artist was one of 28 people named in the original indictment against YSL members. Gunna, Young Thug’s brother Unfoonk and others accepted plea deals in the RICO case.

Young Thug is one of the eight defendants left in the YSL RICO trial. Several co-defendants had their cases severed during the slow-moving jury selection process.

Killer Mike Admits He Was “Stoned Out Of His Mind” When He Made André 3000 Album Claim

By: Kyle Eustice Updated Category: News

Killer Mike is walking back claims André 3000 has a new solo album on the way. During a recent interview with Atlanta radio station V-103, the Run The Jewels juggernaut was asked about the comments he made during an interview with Sway Calloway. He quickly copped to playing with fans’ emotions.

“I was stoned out of my mind playing, teasing with y’all,” he said. “Y’all done took the joke too seriously. But you know, [Andre 3000’s] always making music. He’s never not making music. So I got a chance to hear a lot of cool stuff… If you want to hear Dre though, I know where you can. It’s this album called Michael that’s out right now. There is Dre, Future, and Killer Mike.”

Outkast fans, of course, were losing their collective minds following Killer Mike’s revelation. In a clip making the rounds on Instagram, Calloway said, “What I’m hearing is Dre got an album coming,” to which Killer Mike replied, “Yeah, I think we fly out in a couple weeks to go listen to it.”

Calloway said, “Wow, that’s amazing. André 3000 got an album coming.” When someone mentioned he thought they were joking, Calloway said, “Nah, he said he played him nine tracks of stuff he already he had. That mean Dre sitting on volumes of songs.”

Of course, Killer Mike could simply be covering his tracks and 3 Stacks could very well be on the verge of dropping new music. Outkast 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).

André 3000’s verse on Killer Mike’s Michael single, “Scientists & Engineers,” has stoked the flames though, and many Hip-Hop fans are clamoring for more from the elusive Atlanta-bred MC. André 3000 has been spotted out and about playing his flute in recent years, seemingly without a care in the world. Fans will have to wait and see if he’s been cooking new solo material in the studio—as difficult as that is. In the meantime, listen to “Scientists & Engineers” featuring André 3000 and Future below.

Saucy Santana Sparks Controversy By No-Showing $30K Booking Involving City Funds

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News

Memphis officials raised questions about a nonprofit’s use of city funds to book Saucy Santana for an HIV testing event, which the rapper no-showed over the Juneteenth weekend.

One Memphis One Vision founder Devante Hill claimed he recruited Saucy Santana to help draw a crowd for an event designed to help homeless people with HIV. Hill said he booked the rapper for $30,000, but Saucy Santana missed a flight and never appeared at the event.

“It wasn’t just, ‘Let’s have a party and celebrate Pride!’” Hill told WREG. “No, there was actually a mission and an objective behind actually booking this particular talent.”

Hill accused Saucy Santana of pocketing an advance and threatened to sue the rapper. But Hill may have bigger problems on his hands since the funds allegedly came from grant money, which wasn’t meant to be used to hire a celebrity.

“One Memphis One Vision was given a grant for their Juneteenth weekend through the Department of Housing and Community Development for HIV testing and to rehab two blighted homes to combat homelessness among youth 18-24 who test positive for HIV as part of a matching grant with Lowes,” Memphis communication officer Allison Fouche explained in a press statement. “This grant was not intended to hire entertainment for the event.”

Hill denied any wrongdoing.

“It was clear when we asked for the grant and applied for the grant that we wanted to create a very large testing event and that we needed to compel a specific demographic of people, and we had a solution as to how we were able to do that,” he told WREG.

Saucy Santana told TMZ he only received half of the deposit for the event. He alleged One Memphis One Vision was trying to paint him as a villain even though he still offered to come after missing his flight.

Memphis officials asked Hill to provide documentation on his use of the grant money.

Hip-Hop Duo dead prez Announces First Album In 11 Years Features The Roots’ Black Thought

By: Kyle Eustice Updated Category: News

M-1 and stic—collectively known as dead prez—haven’t released an album since 2012’s Information Age, but that’s about to change. On Wednesday (June 21), dead prez MC stic revealed a new detail, announcing the duo’s upcoming album will feature The Roots’ Black Thought.

He made the reveal via Instagram, writing, “Ya heard? Spread the word! New @deadprez x @blackthought on the way! #albummode #deadprez.” He included a photo of himself, fellow dead prez member M-1 and Black Thought who appear to be posted up at a studio.

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A post shared by dead prez (@deadprez)

Black Thought is decades into his career but seems more prolific than ever. In addition to his regular gig with The Roots in the house band for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, he’s been pumping out albums like a machine. In 2022, he released the gorgeously layered Cheat Codes album with Danger Mouse. Eight months later, he followed up with Glorious Game, his joint project with El Michaels Affair. He also managed to help produce The Roots Picnic, which took place June 2-4 in Philly.

As for dead prez, the duo spoke to Rock The Bells about their next album last October.

“The camaraderie in the group is hot,” stic said at the time. “I think the ‘hiatus’—which it isn’t really; we’ve each been doing crazy s### in between time individually—was needed. We needed to take a pause, rest, let it breathe, process, let other people speak, learn, live. When the energy feels right and the inspiration is not forced and there’s nothing compelling you to do it except the energy itself, that’s when you feel it.”

M-1 added, “I can’t give away too much, but I can say the team is back, the band is back together and the boys are back in town. We’re working with some of the people we’ve worked with over the years to cultivate the sound. We’re working with some really formidable guys. From the Loud reunion, I had the chance to speak to some of the best producers—people like Juicy J, RZA and Pete Rock, a Loud affiliate. They got really excited. Everybody wants to throw us some production.”

stic also revealed they are working with several longtime collaborators, including Sean C. He continued, “We working with mentors of ours and the homies—ain’t no ‘yes folks’ around us. There’s enough people in the room saying, ‘Make sure you got some s### like this ‘cause that’s what we want!’ Don’t worry—we got you covered.”

Dax Talks “To Be A Man,” Hitting One Billion Views On Youtube & More!

By: Shirley Ju Updated Category: Breeding Ground

Dax has a lot to celebrate, but he’s nowhere near where he wants to be. Hailing from Ottawa, Canada, the singer, songwriter, and rapper prides himself in creating impactful music, even deeming it its own genre. Whether he’s rapping or singing, Dax aims to leave his mark on the earth in the most positive way possible, creating from a heartfelt and vulnerable place each and every time.

Most recently, Dax unveiled his critically-acclaimed new single and visual titled “To Be A Man,” who’s official music video clocks in over 9 million views in just two months. With an affinity for country music, Dax continues to showcase his versatility, even performing the song live on national television at the Canadian Country Music Awards. He then launched an open verse challenge on socials, recruiting his 10 favorite ones to come to Los Angeles to shoot the video for the song’s remix.

“To Be A Man” joins Dax’s catalog of hits, including “Depression,” the Gold-certified “Dear God,” and the Platinum-certified “Dear Alcohol” released last year. He also recently hit one billion views on Youtube, giving hope to all independent artists around the world that they too can follow in his footsteps. 

AllHipHop spoke with Dax in downtown Los Angeles to discuss his tattoos, the new release, journey on YouTube, his top 5 artists in rotation, goals, upcoming music, and more!

AllHipHop: How you been since the last time we spoke? 

Dax: It’s been years. I’ve been good man, trying to stick to myself and do my thing. Continuously I have my lane and carving out space in it, then just building a comfortable life. Now I’m trying to continuously add peace into that, family wise. Help the ones who were older than me, like my parents who are now retiring. My dad actually retires in a week, so gotta handle all that stuff.  It’s cool, gaining more responsibilities while also trying to create a legacy of my own.

AllHipHop: What does your hand tattoo say?

Dax: This one says, AMEN. I’m always blessed, because I’m left-handed. So whenever the left hand makes contact [places hand on shoulder], everyone’s blessed.

AllHipHop: What’s on your other hand? This one, so

Dax: This one, “YourWorthIt.org” was a song I had with Hopsin.

AllHipHop: Fast forward, “To Be A Man” out now. What inspires you to do a country record?

Dax: I’ve always said I do whatever comes naturally when the beat comes on. “Dear Alcohol” was my first singing single, but I had sung before. I’ve lived in Wyoming. I’ve lived in Montana. I’ve lived in Kansas. I’ve spent a lot of time in Mississippi because my dad worked there, so I’ve always had this influence. I was born in Newfoundland, which is very small and little, so I’m used to those small places. 

It’s crazy, my first artist name was almost Cowboy. Never ended up happening. That’s just my monotone singing voice. “I got wasted…” [sings] But in terms of the song itself, s### being a man inspired it. As I get older, I have more responsibilities and more people I have to take care of. So the realization of dang, this is what I have to do. Might not be appreciated for it, but it is what it is. Also seeing my dad, how he’s aged. I know he feels oftentimes unappreciated, so growing into that. I’m about to be 30…

AllHipHop: Still super young. 

Dax: Is it? I’m 29 now, but sometimes because of the things I’ve lived and been through, I feel like I’m older.

AllHipHop: Did you expect “To Be A Man” to do what it did?

Dax: When I first made “To Be A Man,” okay there’s eight billion people on earth. Well at least half of them are men, or close. So any man who hears this song is going to resonate in some type of way. And any woman who hears this song may not resonate with it in terms of her intimate relationship with the man she’s with, but she may relate in terms of her father. I think this song is going to do well because whoever hears it, they’re one person away from relation to what’s been said.

AllHipHop: What was the message you were trying to convey in the music video?

Dax: We went back to Kansas, which is where I spent 4 years of my life. I went to college, I did high school out there for a bit. I wanted to make it real. I didn’t want to have no actors, so everyone in the video is essentially people who actually do those jobs. The truck driver, the welder, the construction worker. All those different things, it was people who do those jobs. I wanted to make the video authentic and relatable.

AllHipHop: Best memory from shooting the video?

Dax: S###, it was such a hectic 3 days. We all went to dinner somewhere, I hadn’t been to dinner in a minute, I don’t go out a lot. We’re sitting at this Asian restaurant, it was dope. Everyone was talking, I was chillin’. It felt so natural. I felt like I was back in high school or college again. That was my greatest memory, dinner with everybody.

AllHipHop: Talk about the open verse challenge you’re doing.

Dax: I did the open verse challenge on socials, and I chose 10 people. My 10 favorite verses. I flew them out, got them a hotel, and we filmed the official music video for the remix that dropped right before Father’s Day. 

What I think is so crazy, it’s no shade. There could be a kid in Istanbul who’s more talented than some of the best artists in the music “industry.” It’s amazing I could do an open verse challenge. Who are all these people we’ve never heard of? But they’re more talented than some of the people we hear on the radio. The songs. It’s a beautiful masterpiece. I’m doing the hook and they all do their verses. I love when people see that because wow, there’s really talent everywhere. But sometimes, people don’t get the opportunity.

AllHipHop: What can we expect from that video? 

Dax: Man, the video is amazing. I’m really excited to see what people think. We had a whole studio and every single person got their own set, even the few who couldn’t make it in person are in it. The video is amazing, I think it’s going to really touch a lot of people.

AllHipHop: How’d it feel to have “Dear God” go Gold?

Dax: It felt great. I have multiple plaques: “She Cheated Again” is Gold, “JOKER RETURNS” is Gold. Because I finally did a publishing thing. Now that I’m doing a publishing thing for my songs, okay now they can get me my Gold thing. When you don’t have that it’s very hard to acquire these things. It feels good, because the way it went Gold to me is what I liked the most. Dropping it independently and all these dope things, so it feels good.

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A post shared by Dax (@thatsdax)

AllHipHop: I love that you say “my genre of music is called Impact.”

Dax: Yes ma’am, that’s the genre for real. I don’t know why I don’t have “impact” tatted on me somewhere.

AllHipHop: Next tat?

Dax: Yeah, it’s gotta be.

AllHipHop: You signed to Columbia, right?

Dax: I signed to RECORDS, it’s a small division of it. They’re attached to Columbia, and that’s attached to Sony. 4 months after “Dear Alcohol” dropped, I’m like man, this song needs to be on the radio. Let me figure out how I can try to make that happen. So I signed that song to RECORDS, and I’m doing an EP with them. Once I signed that, I woke up like oh s###, RECORDS is attached to Columbia. Oh s###, that’s Sony Music. Now I’m a part of Sony Music Canada. I signed with this small Records, all of a sudden it’s attached to this. Attached to that, G#####, that’s wild. You wake up, all of a sudden you’re attached to all this other s###.

AllHipHop: How‘d it feel to get one billion views on YouTube? 

Dax: One bill feels good. It’s a lot of people, a lot of views. What I like most about views, every single view, it’s an individual person living their own life. That’s cool. I discovered this word called “sonder” about a year ago. It basically means everyone’s living a separate life with a separate story that you know nothing about. So the billion is wow, there’s that many people from different walks of life who have seen something I’ve made. It’s cool.

AllHipHop: What are your tips for YouTube?

Dax: Hashtagging is important. YouTube shorts are really doing well now, I’ve tried to start dabbling into that. YouTube was the last thing I did. I started on Facebook, Instagram. Essentially what I do for YouTube, I try to think okay, what’s big on YouTube is people who react to stuff. That’s big on there, music wise. Audio channels. Really the titling is important.

AllHipHop: When you post, that’s important?

Dax: Not as much with the way YouTube is now. It’s really more about the titling of it and engaging, what is the clip? 

AllHipHop: Top 5 artists in rotation?

Dax: Who do I listen to a lot? Top 5 artists in rotation, besides myself, I listen to a lot of Chris Stapleton. He’s a country artist. I listen to a lot of Lily Rose, she’s a country artist too. I listen to that song, “I got a fast car…” [sings] People would probably never think this, I listen to Lil Baby a lot. “California Breeze,” I listen to that on repeat when I workout. I listen to Burna Boy. I listen to that one song, NBA Youngboy and Migos “Need It.” No one would expect that. When I’m working out, I play that one on repeat.

AllHipHop: What‘re you most excited for next? 

Dax: My next songs. I’m doing Blues Fest, Calgary Stampede. I got a Canadian Tour, then American tour. To continue building, doing more shows. I got crazy songs coming out. Insane, impactful songs. I got a song coming out called “God’s Eyes,” that’s gonna be crazy. Man, I got a song called “Life” coming. I got a song called “The Abyss.” I got a song called “Divorce. There’s so many dope conceptual songs I’m excited to drop.

AllHipHop: Any goals for yourself? 

Dax: I’m excited to continue to fight to get my music the recognition it deserves. I’d like to do more “music industry” things people who make good music get the chance to do, so putting myself in a position to do more things. That excites me. Get respected for the work I do. I’d love to win a Grammy, a CCMA, all these different cool things.

AllHipHop: How did it feel to get all that recognition in the country genre?

Dax: It felt dope. What’s dope about it is I didn’t try to make a country song. “Dear Alcohol” was a poem I wrote when I was in college, when I was drinking. I was still drinking when I wrote the actual “Dear Alcohol” poem. I like it because it’s a real thing. It just happened that my voice sounded that way, then it was put in the country space.

Everyone’s super nice. The writing in country music is amazing. Every single song has a plot, a theme, metaphors, ways to describe it that connects cyclically. I really like what they promote: family, beer. [laughs] Nah I’m kidding. 

AllHipHop: Were you nervous to do the TV performance at the Canadian Country Music Awards? 

Dax: That was the most nervous I’ve ever been for sure. 

AllHipHop: Anything else you want to let the people know?

Dax: Man, keep chasing your dreams. Get in the gym, workout. If you’re a man, do some push ups. Girls do push ups too. Workout, get the blood flowing. Life is better caffeinated, just control your caffeine intake. I tried both. I like life with a little bit of coffee. Pray

Boosie Badazz Secures Bail; Second Judge Shuts Down Attempt To Keep Him In Jail

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News

Prosecutors failed to convince a judge to deny bail to Boosie Badazz in a federal gun case.

According to NBC San Diego, Judge Cathy Bencivengo denied the prosecution’s request to keep Boosie in jail on Thursday (June 22). The judge agreed with a previous ruling made by Judge Allison Goddard, who granted the rapper bail on Tuesday (June 20).

Prosecutors appealed Judge Goddard’s decision, claiming Boosie was a danger to the community. Judge Bencivengo rejected the appeal but raised Boosie’s bond to $100,000.

Last month, police arrested Boosie following a traffic stop in San Diego. He was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The state gun case was dismissed on June 14.

Federal agents apprehended Boosie on the same day as the state’s dismissal. The feds also charged with him being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Earlier this week, Judge Goddard allowed Boosie to be released on a $50,000 bond in the federal gun case. But the outspoken artist remained in jail while prosecutors appealed the ruling.

“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,” he wrote on Twitter. “They showed no evidence of me being a flight risk or a danger to the community.”

Boosie asked his Twitter followers to “protest the injustice” done to him. He shared a photo of one fan who showed up to court in San Diego on Thursday.

Jim Jones Taunts Pusha T After Hearing Diss: “That Was Not A Top 50 Verse”

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News

Jim Jones has taken a dig at Pusha T, who appeared to diss the Dipset rapper on a new Clipse song that debuted during Pharrell’s first Louis Vuitton show.

Fans assumed Pusha T subliminally dissed Jim Jones for suggesting the Clipse member wasn’t a Top 50 rapper. Jim Jones referenced his past comments in response to the diss on Thursday (June 22).

“That was not a Top 50 verse,” he said in an Instagram video. “Not at all. Still not in my Top 50.”

He added in the caption, “Lol [that] verse did not make [the] list champ it was cute.”

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A post shared by jimjonescapo (@jimjonescapo)

Earlier this year, Jim Jones scoffed at Billboard putting Pusha T on its list of the 50 greatest rappers of all time. The New York-bred artist downplayed Pusha T’s impact in a debate on Spotify’s RapCaviar podcast.

“What has [Pusha T] done that puts him in the greatest rappers of all time besides talk about coke that he probably didn’t get himself?” he said. “He’s nice! He’s nice as s###. He could rap his ass off, but what has he done?”

Pusha T warned unidentified “veterans” about mentioning his name on the new Clipse track. But Jim Jones remained unimpressed with King Push.

Listen to the Clipse song below.

Kodak Black Dragged Into Hunter Biden Fiasco As Twitter Blasts “Slap On The Wrist” Sentencing

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News

Kodak Black’s lawyer is speaking out, addressing the sentencing disparity between what his client got and what the President of the United States’ son got for the same crime.

Both were convicted of the same federal weapons crimes, but the Florida rapper was hit with three years in prison and Hunter Biden was given a plea deal that will require him to do no jail time. President Joe Biden’s Justice Department negotiated the first son’s generous deal. This apparently outraged the chart-topper and his legal team, led by Bradford Cohen.

“There’s no such thing as not getting jail time on a gun charge on any kind of gun charge,” Cohen said in an interview with FOX News. “The Justice Department announced Tuesday that Hunter Biden agreed to plead guilty to two misdemeanor counts of willful failure to pay federal income tax. The younger Biden also agreed to enter into a pretrial diversion agreement with regard to a separate charge of possession of a firearm by a person who is an unlawful user of or addicted to a controlled substance.”

People took to Twitter to discuss the Kodak Black and Hunter Biden comparisons. One person pointed out, “Kodak Black got off easy. He was a felon already.Was Hunter a felon before this? No, he wasn’t.” Another added, “So after rapper Kodak Black brings to the attention of everyone that Hunter is getting off scot free for the same charge Black committed, yet Black got a 3 yr prison sentence, now Broward Co FL submits that Black failed to provide a urine sample, VOP. Coincidences.”

https://twitter.com/jm908459/status/1671912218001305600?s=20

As previously reported by AllHipHop, Kodak Black was sentenced to more than three years in federal prison after pleading guilty to weapons charges. These charges weren’t dumped on a clean slate— he already had prior convictions despite being 22 years old at the time. He admitted to falsifying information on federal forms so that he would be eligible to buy four firearms from a Miami-area gun shop, not once but twice.

Cohen also took to Instagram to express what he sees is a two-faced justice system.

“2 tiers of justice?” he captioned the post. “Kodak was charged for the same crime. Got over 3 years. Mr. Biden will not serve a day. Feels right? Do FBI agents and federal authorities take cases personally?”

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A post shared by Bradford Cohen (@lawronin)

In 2021,  Kodak Black’s 46-month sentence was commuted by former POTUS Donald Trump and he has been an ally since. In other news, an arrest warrant has been issued for Kodak Black’s arrest after he allegedly broke the law again.

Arrest Warrant Issued For Kodak Black One Day After Lawyer Claims FBI Is Harassing Rap Star

By: Nolan Strong Updated Category: News

Kodak Black is once again in the spotlight due to a new arrest warrant issued in Broward County. The warrant accuses Black of failing to submit to mandated drug and alcohol testing on June 9, a key condition of his pre-trial release program.

Kodak Black was arrested on July 16, 2022 on charges of trafficking Oxycodone and possessing a controlled substance without a prescription but was released on a $75,000 bond the following day.

The rapper had been ordered earlier this year to spend 90 days in a treatment program for violating his supervised release terms in a federal gun case. This came after he reportedly failed a drug test, which prompted a court hearing.

The latest arrest warrant for Black comes as the rapper has been thrust into the national spotlight due to the disparity between his sentence and that of Hunter Biden’s, son of President Joe Biden, for lying on a federal form for a gun application.

Both Kodak Black and Hunter Biden had pleaded guilty to illegally owning a gun while abusing drugs after denying drug use when applying for their gun permits. However, Black was sentenced to more than three years in prison, while Biden made a plea deal to avoid jail time.

Black’s attorney, Bradford Cohen, and a number of prominent conservatives have openly criticized the discrepancy in sentencing. They argue that similar offenses have led to jail time for individuals like Black, while Biden has avoided such a fate.

“With Kodak, not only did he get the 46 months after he got the sentence commuted, the FBI agent that investigated him and arrested him for that charge continues to stop him to try to harass him,” Cohen told Sean Hannity before the most recent arrest warrant was issued.

“He reported him to Homeland Security for carrying more than $10,000 in cash,” Cohen added. “So not only a two-tiered justice system, it might even be a three-tiered system.”

The public and legal scrutiny of Black’s case comes amid a broader national debate about racial and social disparities in the U.S. criminal justice system, with many pointing to this case as an example of a perceived two-tiered justice system.

Capitol Records Relaunches Tamla Imprint With New Focus On “Positive Hip-Hop”

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News

Tamla Records, a smaller label founded by music executive Berry Gordy in 1958, is set to relaunch. Instead of being associated with the historic Motown Records—the label responsible for the mega careers of Stevie Wonder, The Miracles, Eddie Holland and more—it will now be under the umbrella of Capitol Music Group (CMG) and Capitol Christian Music Group (Capitol CMG).

According to a press release, Capitol CMG’s current SVP of Marketing, EJ Gaines, will run the imprint with a focus on positive Hip-Hop and R&B music.

“We are thrilled to be re-launching the Tamla imprint,” CMG Co-Presidents Brad O’Donnell and Hudson Plachy said in a joint statement. “We want to honor the iconic history of the label founded by Mr. Gordy, and Tillie Mann and Encouragement Music are exactly the kind of partners that we want to work with.

“EJ Gaines is a seasoned executive who we know will guide Tamla along with the support of our overall Capitol CMG staff. We are grateful to Michelle Jubelirer and Capitol for their belief in this new venture.”

Jubelirer, CMG chair/CEO, added, “The relaunch of Tamla broadens our company’s commitment to Hip-Hop and R&B music, as well as to the artists, label partners, and creative executives who have joined Capitol Music Group over the past 18 months. The artists EJ and his team will bring to Tamla will complement the incredible talent across our label group and will have everyone’s support throughout the wider company.”

EJ Gaines also commented on the relaunch, saying, “Tamla has always been home to incredible music that has shifted culture. I’m excited to continue its rich legacy with groundbreaking, mainstream music that is faith-formed and culture-forward. I’m grateful to Hudson, Brad, and Michelle for trusting me with this honor.”

Q-Tip’s Quest For Old Flame Makes Woman Target Of Internet Trolls

By: Kyle Eustice Updated Category: News

A Tribe Called Quest’s de facto leader, Q-Tip, had another special request for his fans on Wednesday (June 21). Taking to Twitter, the illustrious MC suggested they leave his high school friend Pamela Sweat alone. Q-Tip began looking for Sweat last week, firing off a tweet about the girl he once took to a Prince concert. Sweat was located quickly but since then, she’s been the target of internet trolls. Q-Tip ultimately made contact with Sweat and appeared to have a good conversation with his old flame. But it came with a cost.

“Questers!” Q-Tip began. “I connected with PAM. We had a great catch up! She is a devoted mom n wife and she treasures her privacy and asks that folks would refrain from salacious comments.. this was a fun odyssey that you all helped me complete. Thank you n see yall real soon!”

https://twitter.com/QtipTheAbstract/status/1671661549914562562?s=20

Q-Tip started his search for Pamela Sweat on June 16 with a tweet that read: “There was a girl i went to HS with.. PAMELA SWEAT we went to the PRINCE concert in 9th grade. @ MSG Pam if you’re out there id love to know u r well i think of u often.”

Savvy internet sleuths not only found high school photos of Sweat, they also found what they thought was her Instagram account. But apparently, they had the wrong Pamela Sweat (who was relentlessly trolled as well). The real Pam Sweat was ultimately discovered, and she and Q-Tip connected. Sweat confirmed on her page: “Hey y’all I did reach out to him.” She included the song “Beautiful Day” by Jonathan Roy.

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A post shared by Pamela Sweat (@pammy_peterss)

But as Q-Tip pointed out, Sweat has been the recipient of some unwanted attention, including remarks about her appearance. But most fans were overjoyed by the potential reunion. Sweat did say she DM’ed Q-Tip, but no additional details were provided. Even so, it appears people are highly invested in the storyline.

Kanye West Calls Donda Academy Lawsuit “Meritless and Barebones” Publicity Attempt

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News

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.

Nicki Minaj Blasts Conservative Ben Shapiro For “Pound Town 2” Diss

By: Niki Gatewood (@THE_NikiG) Updated Category: Rumors

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.

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 Launches ‘MoTalk Radio’ On Apple Music

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News

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).

https://twitter.com/MonicaDenise/status/1671283061302996992?s=20

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 Reacts To Critic Claiming She Had Worst Freshman Cypher Ever

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News

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.”

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.”

Boosie Badazz Allegedly Set Up By Hip-Hop Police: Streets Are Talking

By: Niki Gatewood (@THE_NikiG) Updated Category: Rumors

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?

Babyface Addresses Getting Kicked Off Anita Baker’s Tour [VIDEO]

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News

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.

Earlier this month, Anita Baker announced Babyface would no longer appear on The Songstress Tour going forward.

“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 Turned Down 2023 Freshman Class Cover

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News

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.

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Meek Mill Blasts News Coverage Of Missing Titan Submarine

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News

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).

Last week, Meek Mill faced online backlash after offering his opinion on the situation involving R&B singer YK Osiris and reality show star Sukihana. Footage of YK Osiris forcibly kissing Sukihana led to Meek asking the public not to chastise the “Worth It” performer.

Stormzy Reveals His “Toxic Trait” In Heavyweight U.K. Collab With Fredo 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News

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.  

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A post shared by STORMZY (@stormzy)

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).”

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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.”

Check out the preview below. 

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