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T.I.’s Spreads Cheer With Harris Community Works’ 8th Annual Holiday Caravan

T.I.‘s nonprofit organization Us or Else forges ahead with generosity and community spirit as the Harris Community Works held its 8th Annual Holiday Caravan this past week.

The award-winning multi-hyphenate-turned-philanthropist personally stepped out to give out gifts and also give wisdom to attendees, demonstrating his commitment to his community.

“When you’ve been blessed as I am, it’s important to give back to those who may need a little extra assistance. I look forward to these events every year and will continue to serve my community as long as I’m able to,” T.I. stated.

The week-long caravan commenced on December 13 (Wednesday), at the DTLR at Camp Creek Marketplace in Atlanta. Mentees from the Next Level Boys Academy diversion program were allowed to shop for clothing. Gary Davis, Founder and CEO of the Academy said, “For many, this is their Christmas. T.I. and Harris Community Works have been longtime supporters of us, and we appreciate all they have done and continue to do for us.”

In addition to their shopping sprees, the young men received Hawks drawstring bags and tickets to a Skyhawks game, courtesy of the Atlanta Hawks.

The caravan continued its mission on December 15 (Friday), at My Sister’s House, a shelter for homeless women and families affiliated with the Atlanta Mission. This organization not only offers food and shelter but also programs to help families transition into their own homes.

Katrina Dangsm, Director of Program Support Services at the Atlanta Mission, expressed gratitude for the support, stating, “When we have community partners like Harris Community Works come in and give Christmas gifts, it allows our children to feel safe and dream child-sized dreams.”

T.I. and his wife Tameka received a positive welcome. They also had breakout sessions for teens and mothers. T.I. shared words of wisdom with the teens about the challenges they face. Tameka and Congresswoman Nikema Williams addressed the mothers about the trials of being working parents and how to overcome adversity. The women were surprised with Visa gift cards.

The caravan’s last stop on the same day was the graduation ceremony for students in the Project Pinnacle Diversion Program. T.I. personally handed out diplomas to the graduates and delivered an inspirational speech about resilience and giving back. This program provides first-time, non-violent juvenile offenders with an alternative to a prison sentence, focusing on anger management, life skills, and a supportive network for their future. Judge Asha Jackson, Founder of Project Pinnacle, praised the graduates, stating, “These amazing young men and women are ready to embrace all their life goals while leaving the criminal justice system behind.”

See more from Harris Community Works (HCW) below.

Quando Rondo Released On $100K Bond—With A Catch

Quando Rondo received an early Christmas gift as he was able to get out of jail in Savannah, Georgia on Thursday (December 21). According to local news outlets WJCL and WTOC, the Atlantic Records artist posted a $100,000 bond but was placed under house arrest in a federal drug case.

Earlier this month, authorities arrested Rondo on federal drug charges. A partially unsealed indictment accused him and several other defendants of participating in a drug trafficking conspiracy in the Savannah area.

“The indictment in USA v. Grant et al. alleges that the defendants conspired starting at least as early as January 2021 to possess and distribute illegal drugs including methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl and marijuana,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Georgia said in a press release. “A conviction on the conspiracy charge carries a statutory sentence of up to 20 years in prison, along with substantial fines and penalties, followed by a period of supervised release upon completion of any prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.”

Rondo, whose real name is Tyquian Bowman, was charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. He pleaded not guilty at his court date on December 12.

The 24-year-old rapper was previously arrested on state charges in June. He was charged with conspiracy to violate Georgia’s controlled substances act, participating in criminal activity in association with a street gang and use of communication facility in commission of a felony involving controlled substances.

Prosecutors claimed Rondo was the leader of the Rollin’ ’60s Crips street gang in Savannah. The prosecution objected to releasing him on bond in the state case, but he was able to secure his release. He was out on bond for several months before the FBI busted him on federal drug charges.

Vin Diesel Accused Of Assaulting Woman And Then Masturbating

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rI6eAFH-rY0Vin Diesel has been accused of sexual battery by his former assistant. Asta Jonasson filed a lawsuit against the “Fast and Furious” actor in which she claimed he forced himself on her in his suite at the St. Regis hotel in Atlanta, Georgia in September 2010.

Jonasson, who was hired to be Diesel’s assistant while he filmed “Fast Five,” claimed the incident occurred after all the women he had brought back from a nightclub left his suite and they were alone.

Diesel allegedly “grabbed Ms. Jonasson’s wrists, one with each of his hands, and pulled her onto the bed,” according to reports. She allegedly asked him to stop, escaped his grasp and waited by the front door of the suite. The 56-year-old actor allegedly began to g#### her breasts and kiss her chest, despite her asking him to stop.

“Ms. Jonasson was afraid to more forcibly refuse her supervisor, knowing that getting him out of that room was both crucial to her personal safety and job security,” the legal action reads. “But this hope died when Vin Diesel dropped to his knees, pushed Ms. Jonasson’s dress up toward her waist, and molested her body, running his hands over Ms. Jonasson’s upper legs, including her inner thighs.”

When Diesel allegedly tried to pull down her underwear, Jonasson screamed and ran down the hallway toward the bathroom. She claimed he then pinned her to the wall, placed her hand on his penis and masturbated. Hours after the alleged incident, Samantha Vincent, Diesel’s sister and the president of his One Race production company, allegedly called Jonasson and fired her after less than two weeks of employment.

In addition to sexual battery, the former assistant is also suing for discrimination based on sex/gender, intentional infliction of emotional distress, hostile work environment, wrongful termination and retaliation.

Diesel, real name Mark Sinclair, has yet to address the allegations.

Method Man Demands To Be Left Out Of 50 Cent Versus Diddy Beef

Method Man would prefer 50 Cent keep his name out of his mouth when it comes to Diddy. On Thursday (December 21), the rapper-turned-television mogul shared an Instagram clip of the Wu-Tang Clan legend recalling a conversation with a man who said, “‘F### Kanye West. I hate that n####. Plus I seen that n#### at one of Puff’s parties sucking dick in the bathroom.'” The text across the video read, “Method Man Says He Seen Kanye Do What At Diddy’s Party?”

50 Cent wrote in the caption: “This has not been confirmed, but ya see why I stayed away from the man’s party’s WTF.” Method Man quickly hopped in the comment section to chide 50 Cent for dragging him into his feud with Diddy. He wrote, “This video fake 5.. you and Diddy keep me out of this s###. The real vid is on YouTube .. (method man bossip).. do your research .. yall fallin for the remix.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/C1H2e2UOFm_/

50 Cent has been one of Diddy’s most outspoken critics since Cassie Ventura filed her bombshell lawsuit against her ex on November 16. His mockery of the Bad Boy Records founder has been relentless ever since. He’s also promising a new documentary called Diddy Do It.

Earlier this month, after two more sexual assault lawsuits (one involving a minor) were filed against Diddy, 50 Cent expressed his shock, writing, “My God 17, was no one off limit. This documentary is gonna blow you away! Diddy do it, or Not coming soon !!”

Diddy, former Bad Boy Records president Harve Pierre and a third man were accused of gang rape and sex trafficking. The alleged victim, identified as Jane Doe, said the trio sexually assaulted her at Diddy’s studio when she was a teenager. According to the lawsuit, the three men “plied Ms. Doe with drugs and alcohol” until the then-teenager was inebriated. They allegedly took turns raping the 17-year-old girl. The sexual assault left her barely able to stand. Diddy denied the allegations in a statement. He accused Jane Doe and his other sexual assault accusers of seeking a quick buck.

“Enough is enough,” he declared on Instagram. “For the last couple of weeks, I have sat silently and watched people try to assassinate my character, destroy my reputation and my legacy. Sickening allegations have been made against me by individuals looking for a quick payday. Let me be absolutely clear: I did not do any of the awful things being alleged. I will fight for my name, my family and for the truth.”

EXCLUSIVE: Bow Wow Dodging “Scream Tour” Lawsuit, Jermaine Dupri’s Dad Claims

Jermaine Dupri’s father Michael Mauldin accused Bow Wow of refusing service of legal papers in a trademark infringement lawsuit in Georgia. According to court documents obtained by AllHipHop, the music industry veteran requested more time to serve Bow Wow in a motion filed on Tuesday (December 19).

Mauldin sued Bow Wow, whose real name is Shad Moss, and the Black Promoters Collective for using Mauldin’s trademarked name “Scream Tour” without permission in September. JD’s dad needed to serve Bow Wow with a notice of the complaint within 90 days of filing but was unable to do so over the past few months. Mauldin’s attorney asked for an extension, blaming Bow Wow for avoiding service of the complaint.

“The extension of time would aid in timely locating and serving defendant, who has been thus far unattainable since the initial filing of the complaint on September 21, 2023 due to the refusal of service by defendant’s counsel and the refusal of service at defendant’s address in Atlanta, Georgia,” Mauldin’s lawyer Christopher Chan wrote. “The extension of time would also prevent further delay in the case by avoiding a dismissal without prejudice and subsequent refiling of the Complaint. The proposed extension of time to serve the Defendant would extend the current deadline from December 20, 2023 to March 19, 2024.”

Earlier this year, Bow Wow acquired an ownership stake in a new Scream Tour launched by the Black Promoters Collective. He was part of the first Scream Tour, which took place in 2001.

Mauldin, who created the original Scream Tour, accused the rapper and promoter of injuring his brand. Mauldin said Bow Wow was “unquestionably familiar” with the trademark due to their close relationship. JD’s father sought damages and an injunction to stop Bow Wow and the Black Promoters Collective from using the “Scream Tour” name.

From 50 Cent To 2Pac: Here Are 5 Frankie Beverly Songs Sampled By Hip-Hop Artists

Beyoncé introduced a new generation to the titan soul group Frankie Beverly and Maze after she flipped their “Before I Let Go” on 2019’s Homecoming: The Live Album.

Others might know the group, particularly “Before I Let Go,” as a backyard barbecue classic that might be a staple in their parents’ or grandparents’ party playlist. Who can resist when people play the jam at a family function and people not only bust out the electric slide but join each other in the chorus?

Academy Award-winning actor Jamie Foxx, who also DJs on the side, said Beverly’s songs are important to the culture, uniting people of all color.

Beverly and the group have transcended generations, class, race and other categories without even trying. Whether talking about the original songs or songs that many R&B and Hip-Hop artists have sampled, their music is steeped in Black music’s DNA.

Check out five of Frankie Beverly and Maze’s#### songs that have been sampled and crossed generations below.

5) “I Need You,” 1978

Over the last three decades, quite a few rappers have discovered the musicality of this ’70s gem. It made its way into three of the street’s most beloved grooves: 50 Cent’s “Hustler’s Ambition,” Jeezy’s “Talk to Em,” and Boosie and Webbie’s “I Need U.”

4) “Happy Feelings,” 1977

A little over a dozen major recording artists have tapped this vibey song to create a new track for their catalog. However, when Tupac Shakur flipped it in 1995 with his song “Can U Get Away” it was something special for the ladies on Me Against The World.

3) “We Are One,” 1983

When this song came out, it was an anthem to unify the community and became a go-to sample for a few members of California’s most elite ’90s MCs, including WC and Tha Dogg Pound.

WC dropped the sample in his “Better Days” song featuring the smoothed out Jon B, who always seemed to find himself on a chilled-out West Coast rap song. Tha Dogg Pound members Daz Dillinger and Kurupt used it on the track “Hittin’ Donutz in Tha Streetz” and Kurupt, on his solo dolo vibe, got busy on the song titled “Under Pressure,” which also sampled it.

2) “Joy And Pain,” 1980

“Joy And Pain” was sampled at least 13 times, but the most popular use of the song has to be Rob Base and DJ E-Z Rock’s 1988 jam with the same name. The song featured vocalist Omar Chandler on the iconic chorus, who effortlessly mimicked Beverly’s hearty voice.

1)“Before I Let Go,” 1981

Yes, “Before I Let Go” was covered by Beyoncé, introducing it to millions not familiar with the tune. But before Queen Bey went into the vocal booth to add her spin to it, it’d been sampled by a few heavy hitters.

Steady B rocked it on his joint “Use Me” as did 50 Cent, Big Daddy Kane, Nate Dogg, Fat Joe, Kool Keith, Ice-T, Uncle Murda and Doug E. Fresh, who sampled it twice on his joints “Back in the Dayz” and D.E.F.”

Three songs that really stand out are Keith Murray’s “The Rhyme,” Funky 4+1’s “Do You Want to Rock” and K-Solo’s “Your Mom’s in My Business.”

At 77, Frankie Beverly remains a cross-generational beacon. Beverly and Maze are still performing. The group is currently on their I Wanna Thank You Tour, a winter white affair, on Saturday (December 23) at the Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall. Tickets are available here.

They will be joined by The Isley Brothers, another group deeply influential in the Hip-Hop world— just peep Ron Isley’s run as Mr. Biggs in the ’90s and Erykah Badu and André 3000’s “Hello” remake.

T-Pain Announces New Album To Coincide With 2024 Las Vegas Residency

T-Pain is gearing up to release a new album ahead of his 2024 Las Vegas residency. On Wednesday (December 20), T-Pain unleashed his hour-long YouTube exclusive performance entitled “On Top Of The Covers.” Derived from the Florida vocalist’s three-night run at The Sun Rose Ballroom in Hollywood last March, the footage of his intimate performance captures never-before-heard renditions and covers of a diverse group records such as Smino’s “Klink” Montell Jordan’s “This Is How We Do It” and Sam Smith’s “Stay With Me.” In a message on Twitter (X), T-Pain shared a clip from the performance of his soulful take on Chris Stapleton’s#### record “Tennessee Whiskey” and revealed he’ll be releasing an album to coincide with the visual performance.

“Smooth as Tennessee Whiskey [drink emoji],” he wrote. “Not only is the video available now on my YouTube, I’ll be releasing an album version across streaming platforms this Friday [star emoji] Presave now https://music.empi.re/ontoplive.”

The album news comes just days after he announced his residency at Zouk Nightclub and Ayu Dayclub at Resort World Las Vegas. In celebration of joining artists such as Wu-Tang Clan to announce residences in Sin City ahead of the New Year, T-Pain shared a post on Instagram inviting his fans to the first show in February.

“Full speed towards 2024 [racing flag emoji]” T-Pain wrote in the caption of the post. “I’m proud to officially announce that I’m kicking off my FIRST EVER Vegas residency at @zoukgrouplv and @ayudayclub Catch my very first show on Thu, Feb 8 at #ZoukNightclub – Tickets are live, join me for a ride you won’t forget [race car emoji].”

Check out the full video of T-Pain’s performance below.

Drake & Kanye West Could Beef Over Theory About Adonis & North West’s Rapping

Drake and Kanye West may have something else to beef over based on a new theory about why Adonis’ rap debut was outshined by North West’s.

In a lengthy tweet shared on Twitter (X) recently, a user outlined a litany of reasons why North’s song was much better than Adonis’. According to the tweet, North’s use of literary devices such as double entendres and an impressive combination of improvised internal and rhyme schemes giver her the edge when putting their tracks side-by-side. Bro even broke down how North was flexing her brother’s soccer obsession and recent link up with Lionel Messi in her verse.

While it’s hard to believe North was referencing the “sociopolitical effects” of a 2011 volcanic eruption in her verse, it isn’t hard to tell that her bars are catchy as she raps, “It’s your bestie, Miss Miss Westie.” In the same breath, social media users have long championed Adonis for his in-pocket flows on “My Man.”

North definitely has to catch up when it comes to making public appearances with her dad—because Adonis and Drake are killing her and Ye in that department. Between the court side NBA games and their recent NOCTA x Nike campaign with Kehlani, the father-son duo from The 6 is really outside at the moment. Anyway, check out the insane theory below.

Chrisean Rock Says Blueface Assaulted Her As She Held Their Baby

Chrisean Rock accused Blueface of assaulting her and showing no regard for their baby’s safety on Thursday (December 21). The reality TV star described what allegedly happened on Instagram Live.

“I pull up on the n#### Blueface ‘cause he act like he wanna see his son,” Chrisean said. “This n#### is socking me in my stomach, in my face. Telling me, ‘Get out the car, pig’ … The n#### literally socking me. I’m trying to get out the car with his son. He’s punching me while I got our son in my hand.”

Chrisean livestreamed the drama with Blueface while parked in his driveway. He stood outside the car filming her and tried to get her to leave, but she insisted on staying because she wanted the cops to show up and arrest him.

“Your hands is already bloody,” she told him. “Show ‘em your bloody hands … N#### really tryin to sock me in my s### … I’m leaving when the cops get here and lock your b#### ass up, b#### … You getting locked up today, bro … Don’t act like you need to see your son just to sock me, n#### … It’s cool, Blueface, you going to jail today.”

The livestream became chaotic when Chrisean exited her vehicle. She was somehow able to get a hold of Blueface’s phone then fled the scene. The screen went black, but viewers could hear her driving. She eventually parked and continued talking to her Instagram Live viewers.

“I’m trying to wait there ‘cause I’m tired of just letting this n#### slide,” she explained. “He set me up. Told me pull up, started socking me in the face with my kid in my arms.”

Blueface claimed Chrisean showed up at his place without warning. According to him, Chrisean did not have a car seat for their child.

Watch Chrisean’s Instagram Live below.

DJ Envy Threatened With Arrest For Alleged Cesar Pina Scam—See Subpoenas

The Breakfast Club co-host DJ Envy is facing more legal trouble due to his business relationship with Cesar Pina, who was busted for wire fraud. According to court documents, a New Jersey judge threatened Envy with arrest if he didn’t hand over all documents requested by a trustee in Pina’s bankruptcy case.

Judge Rosemary Gambardella ordered Envy (real name Raashaun Casey) to produce copies of the documents by January 8, 2024. Pina and his wife Jennifer were given the same instructions.

“Should Cesar Pina, Jennifer Iturralde Pina and/or Raashaun Casey fail to provide full and complete responses to the requests on Schedules A, B, and C as directed in decretal paragraph one above, the Trustee shall file a notice of default with the Court, at which time the Court may convene a hearing to address appropriate sanctions against Cesar Pina, Jennifer Iturralde Pina and Raashaun Casey for contempt of this Court’s order, including, but not limited to an order for arrest to bring the parties to the United States Bankruptcy Court, District of New Jersey, 50 Walnut Street, Newark, New Jersey to appear for a Rule 2004 deposition,” Judge Gambardella wrote.

Cesar Pina Subpoenaed - Turn Over Documents Or Faces Arrest In Relation to Bankruptcy

Pina’s company Whairhouse LLC filed for bankruptcy amid pressure from eight investors in August. A judge appointed a trustee to oversee Whairhouse at the behest of the investors, who said Pina used the company “to operate a real estate Ponzi scheme.” Envy’s promotion of Pina’s real estate deals allegedly convinced people to invest in Pina’s scheme, but they never saw a return on their investments.

Authorities arrested Pina for running a multimillion-dollar Ponzi-like investment fraud scheme in October. He was released on a $1 million bond.

Envy wasn’t charged with a crime but faced intense scrutiny for his business partnership with Pina. Several parties have sued Envy for his alleged role in Pina’s scam.

St. Louis Producer TurnMeUpB Follows Cardi B, Trey Songz, Dave East & Sexxy Red Collabs With New Single”Fellen”

Today East St. Louis producer and artist TurnMeUpB returns with a new single titled “Fellen,” deliberately misspelling “felon” with a St. Louis eye dialect to resonate with the street slang of his hometown of East St. Louis, Illinois. 

“Fellen, I am one. I am a felon. With the duct tape on the cover I don’t speak about it. I never been a rat. I hold my own. I spelled it like that because that’s the ebonics way and I could spell it with the ‘o’ and I just thought the hook is talking street stuff and it’s just a bunch of felons getting to the money and I came across it. And it just worked.”

Stepping out from behind the boards, TurnMeUpB’s new effort is geared towards the discovery of his well-respected sound.  Continuing to make waves in the music industry with his extraordinary talent and notable collaborations, TurnMeUpB boasts an impressive resume that includes working alongside chart-topping artists like Cardi B, Dave East, and Trey Songz. It also includes forming strong connections with fellow St. Louis artist and rising female rap sensation Sexyy Red and her team. There’s no question TurnMeUpB has solidified his position as a mainstay producer on the St. Louis scene for years to come as the streets are watching for all his next moves.

“Early on I was signed to Rap-A-Lot after J Prince called me himself.  They took me under their wing and I learned a lot. I was working on the Rap-A-Lot/Warner deal with Raw Reece, then came JR and we ended up taking a meeting with Def Jam and we worked with Trey Songz,” he said.  “Then I moved to Detroit and worked with Kevin Liles. I built a reputation with Trey, and then I became independent and was putting money behind artists. So even before pushing my artist BRB Loopy I was in the game and I’m trying to teach that to these younger rappers.” 

TurnMeUpB eventually built a reputation for crafting innovative beats and producing tracks that resonated with audiences worldwide while also working with artists at home like BRB Loopy. His unique style and creative vision earned him recognition among the music elite of his city and beyond. 

In addition to his work with established artists, TurnMeUpB has also formed a dynamic partnership with one of the most buzzworthy female rappers in the game, Sexyy Red. Their collaborations promise to deliver groundbreaking music that pushes boundaries and challenges the status quo in the Hip-Hop game. Sexxy Red’s unmatched energy and lyrical prowess combined with TurnMeUpB’s unparalleled production abilities create a synergy that is set to dominate the music charts and captivate audiences worldwide.

TurnMeUpB is not only known for his remarkable musical contributions but also for his dedication to nurturing emerging talent like BRB Loopy. Through mentorship programs and workshops, he is helping aspiring artists and producers hone their skills and navigate the complexities of the music business and the streets of St. Louis. 

“I’m always playing in the background in the shadows as a label owner and producer but I was born and raised in East St. Louis. I started off as a rapper and then once I realized I couldn’t rap I made beats and started buying equipment, working little jobs. When most people were clubbing I was getting my craft together and created a studio in my momma’s basement. The rest was history, after started giving them beats out.”

Fans and industry insiders alike eagerly anticipate TurnMeUpB’s upcoming releases, expecting nothing less than groundbreaking music that will leave a lasting impression on the music landscape.

For more information about TurnMeUpB, please visit or follow him on social media @TurnMeUpB618.

Loch- “The Globe”

Loch returns with “The Globe!”

The song speaks to him having people around the world who rock with his music and about leaving where you are to take a chance on yourself and your goals. Loch also notes that sometimes you don’t have to physically leave to “get around the globe.”

Loch on “The Globe”:

“”The Globe” is this song I had for a while. My man, Maestrolungs had gotten the original beat, but someone else used it, so I got my producer Blacknailz to make me a new beat for it. The original original version was only one verse, and I added some verses to it, and now it’s ready for the world,” said Loch. 

Loch aka WARLOCH is a veteran Atlanta emcee known for being a lyricist, songwriter, and well-rounded song crafter.

With a dramatic flair, he combines complex lyricism with mean, gritty bars and observations on the streets and everyday life. 

He was Influenced by emcees such as Run DMC, LL Cool J, Rakim, Nas, Redman, Eminem, Wu-Tang Clan, Tupac, Kurupt, Ras Kass, and a Tribe Called Quest.

Born in Detroit and raised in Cobb County, South Fulton and all over the Metro Atlanta area, he released his first full project, ‘No Soap No Rags’ as a member of the group Thirst & Loch in 2003. He then released 4 solo projects ‘The Last Flip,’ ‘The Final Front,’ ‘The Social Network,’ ‘Afro American Horror Story’ and ‘Afro American Psycho.’ Loch’s music has been played on Hot 107.9 in Atlanta, Shade45 ,88.5 GA State radio, WIBB in Macon, K-100, WRFG, 89.3 and more. 

Loch has also collaborated with The Outlawz (EDI @ Edifon4L and Kastro), Sean Price, Lyfe Jennings, Sy Scott, Mally G of Illegal, Young Noble of The Outlawz, Adina Howard, Mr. 704, Jag, Cap 1 and Loch’s musical family and crews Bad Blood, SDK and Kamp Kaos, and he’s performed at shows with Ludacris, Juvenile, David Banner, Killer Mike, The Clipse, Rock City and more. 

Currently, Loch has been working on new music with Dr. Dre affiliate and Eminem producer Black Nailz (@Therealblacknailz). 

Check out “The Globe” below!

Click HERE to listen to “The Globe.”


Maxwell, Jeezy, Scarface & More To Perform At 2024 Jazz In The Gardens Music Festival

Black Promoters Collective collaborated with the City of Miami Gardens to present next year’s Jazz In The Gardens Music Festival. R&B legend Maxwell will headline the two-day event scheduled for March 9 and 10, 2024.

In addition to Maxwell, Jazz In The Gardens will feature performances by fellow R&B artists Babyface, Jaheim, Tamia, Marsha Ambrosius and October London. Jeezy and Scarface will represent Hip-Hop.

“BPC is thrilled to work alongside the City of Miami Gardens to enhance the already vibrant Jazz In The Gardens brand and take it to the next level,” Troy Brown, Black Promoters Collective Partner and CMO, states.

Brown adds, “For example, notably, JITG has never incorporated the Afrobeat genre into its lineup. BPC plans to change that and infuse the festival with a mix of genres, promising an unforgettable experience for attendees.”

Miami Gardens Mayor Promises Line-Up Of Talented Artists For JITG

“We are so excited to be hosting the 17th annual Jazz In The Gardens Music Festival. This year’s partnership with the Black Promoters Collective promises an enhanced festival experience, and a line-up of talented artists who represent the diverse culture we have in Miami Gardens and South Florida region,” Mayor of Miami Gardens Rodney Harris says.

Maxwell became one of the top R&B performers to emerge in the late 1990s. His album discography includes Maxwell’s Urban Hang Suite, Embrya, Now, BLACKsummers’night, and blackSUMMERS’night. Furthermore, he recorded the MTV Unplugged EP.

Jeezy released the chart-topping Thug Motivation 102: The Inspiration, The Recession and Trap or Die 3. Scarface rose to prominence as a member of the Geto Boys rap group. He also earned Platinum plaques as a soloist with The Diary, The Untouchable and My Homies.

Comedians Rickey Smiley and Jess Hilarious will host the 2024 Jazz In The Gardens. The next edition of the festival will take place at Hard Rock Stadium, home to the Miami Dolphins. Presale tickets go on sale today (December 21) at 10 am local time via the code BPC.

Jung Kook & Latto’s “Seven” Named Spotify’s Most-Streamed 2023 Collaboration

BTS singer Jung Kook’s “Seven” featuring Latto amassed more than one billion Spotify streams since it dropped on July 14. As of press time, “Seven” has 1.21 billion plays on Spotify, giving Jung Kook of and Latto the crown for the most-streamed collaboration in 2023.

Miley Cyrus took the overall lead. The former Disney Channel star’s “Flowers” currently sits at 1.65 billion streams. Jung Kook and Latto’s “Seven” came in second place for songs released this year.

“Seven” already claimed the record for the fastest song to reach one billion streams in Spotify history. The Watt and Cirkut-produced K-pop track achieved that feat in October. Plus, the song’s official music video has 306 million YouTube views.

With “Seven” collecting over 16 million Spotify streams on the first day of release, Latto also earned the biggest streaming debut for a rapper. The song broke Spotify’s debut record for a male artist and collaboration as well.

Latto scored her first No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 when “Seven” opened in the chart’s top spot. The Atlanta native also had the distinction of being the first rap act to reach the pinnacle of the Hot 100 in 2023. In addition, Latto’s “Put It on da Floor Again” featuring Cardi B became a Top 20 hit on the Hot 100. Upon its release in June, the gold-certified collaboration peaked at No. 14. Rolling Stone listed “Put It on da Floor Again” as the second-best rap song of 2023.

Pardison Fontaine Praises Cardi B As Internet Pioneer

Cardi B stamped her name as a force in the music industry with multiple history-making accomplishments. Pardison Fontaine also believes his longtime collaborator made an unforgettable mark on culture in other ways. In a recent interview with 360 With Speedy, the host asked the New York-bred rapper/songwriter about Cardi B.

“I’ve heard you say that she’s a marketing genius,” Morman recalled. Fontaine responded, “Cardi’s a genius, period, on so many levels. I say this all the time, she would’ve been a star no matter what she chose to do.

“She really pioneered a lot of the energy that you see on the internet right now. She’s the first person to grab her phone and really start talking s### into it, unapologetically herself.”

Before becoming a Grammy-winning recording artist, Cardi B gained a following on Vine and Instagram. She eventually parlayed that social media popularity into a stint on VH1’s Love & Hip Hop: New York reality series.

Cardi then found initial success as a rapper with 2017’s “Bodak Yellow.” The Bronx-raised entertainer’s breakout single became the first solo song by a female rapper to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart since 1998.

Following the three-week reign of “Bodak Yellow” atop the Hot 100, Cardi also reached No. 1 with “Girls Like You,” “I Like It,” “WAP” and “Up.” The 31-year-old hitmaker holds the Billboard records for most No. 1 songs and most total weeks at No. 1 by a female rap act.

Fontaine co-wrote “Bodak Yellow,” “I Like It,” “WAP” and “Up.” He also teamed with Cardi B for his own “Backin’ It Up” single in 2018. That platinum-certified collaboration is Fontaine’s highest-charting entry on the Hot 100.

Lil Durk Deactivates His Instagram Page: “See Y’all Next Year”

Lil Durk’s Instagram followers will be unable to keep up with the Hip-Hop artist on the social media app. The 31-year-old Only The Family crew leader shut down his IG page.

It is not clear what sparked Lil Durk’s decision to leave Instagram this time. While his fans on the Meta-owned platform questioned the move, Durk posted a message on his X (formerly Twitter) account.

“See y’all next year Smurk back on his pain s### [mending heart emoji]… 2024,” Lil Durk tweeted on Tuesday (December 20). That post collected over 1,000 reposts and 10,000 likes.

Previously, Durk deactivated his Instagram page in July 2022. Two months later, he closed his page again after rumors of a breakup with India Royale spread across the internet.

Lil Durk had an impressive 2023. He released his eighth studio LP, Almost Healed, on May 26. That 21-track project hosted the Billboard Hot 100 Top 5 song “All My Life” featuring J. Cole.

“All My Life” became the highest-charting lead single of Durk’s career, peaking at No. 2 on the Hot 100. Almost Healed debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 album chart by earning 125,000 first-week units.

Lil Durk closed out the year by appearing on “Vultures” by Kanye West and Ty Dolla $ign. The Chicago native heads into 2024 with a Grammy Award nomination for “All My Life” (Best Melodic Rap Performance).

How To Record & Master Your Own Hip-Hop Music: 7 Essential Tips

Step into the studio—the world where beats meet rhythm and lyrics weave through the silence. Recording and mastering your own hip hop music is an art form, a personal journey from the echoes of your mind to the speakers resonating with your soul’s signature sound

With each carefully crafted tip, you’re not just jamming tunes but constructing audibles that could one day echo down streets and across cyber streams. From choosing gear to laying down bars, let’s delve into crafting tracks that stand out in the infinite mixtape of life.

7 Tips for Recording and Mastering Your Own Hip Hop Music

Dive into the world of hip hop production with these 7 tips for recording and mastering your tracks. Enhance your sound, from laying down beats to achieving that polished final master.

1. Craft Your Unique Sound

Finding your own sound is about drawing from your influences, sure, but also daring to be different. Experiment with beats, flip samples on their head, and play with flows till you find what feels authentic to you. Sometimes, those off-the-wall ideas are gold waiting to be discovered.

This journey of sonic self-discovery never really ends. Mix in life experiences, get inspiration from other artists with unique sounds, and find your own story in the kick drums and snares. 

2. Invest in Quality Equipment

Think of your studio gear like the tools of a master craftsman. You want them sturdy, reliable, and precise. You don’t need to go for broke, but investing in a solid microphone, interface, and headphones can mean the difference between an amateurish track and that professional sound. 

Just remember that quality equipment is the bedrock on which your sonic empire stands. Take the time to research and listen to user reviews before you make a final purchasing decision. 

3. Use Mastering Software

When it’s time to put the final touches on your hip hop tracks, mastering software becomes an indispensable ally. These tools can elevate the clarity, volume, and balance of your music. 

Say you opt for Mixea’s mastering software. This platform offers an intuitive interface coupled with a suite of powerful features designed to enhance dynamics and achieve radio-ready sound. It enables you to execute precise adjustments that bring your vision for each track to life.

4. Acoustic Treatment for Your Space

When it comes to laying down tracks, your room’s vibe should be less coffee shop chaos, more serene studio. Enter acoustic treatment: it’s the unsung hero that banishes echoes. However, treating a room isn’t just slapping foam on walls. You need to place panels strategically.

Start simple—a few well-placed panels can work wonders. But true mastery is a tailored suit: measure your space, seek out those sonic sweet spots, and treat accordingly.

5. Focus on Clean Recording Takes

It’s essential to nail your performance with minimal background noise and no distortion. This means checking levels well before you hit a record and keeping them in the safe zone.

Dedicate time to getting those takes pristine—the efforts pay off when mixing and mastering roll around. A solid take is the canvas for your masterpiece. It doesn’t need filters or fancy effects to make an impact. When your raw material shines, the end result reflects that quality.

6. Learn Basic Mixing Techniques

Learning how to EQ, compress, and balance levels is your road map to a mix that doesn’t just sound good at home but bumps right across town, too. Arm yourself with these skills.

Set aside time to practice and refine your talent. There’s art in blending tracks together so they complement rather than compete. You’ll find your mixes become more than layers of sound—they tell a story, evoke a mood, and ultimately carry your unique signature as an artist. 

7. Align Beats Precisely

Precision is key. Every kick drum and snare hit must be on point. A millisecond off can send your track from head-nodding to head-scratching. It’s about timing that’s crisp and on the beat.

Take time to zoom in on those waveforms. Nudge them like a meticulous puzzle until the picture is just right. This isn’t about rushing—it’s surgical, a craft of patience and detail. When every element aligns just so, your tracks march in an army of rhythm to the heart of your listeners.

In Conclusion… 

And there you have it, the roadmap to capturing your sonic dreams in the concrete jungle of hip hop. But remember, these tips are just sparks—your passion is the flame. Keep that fire burning, and let determination be your compass as you navigate through beats and bars.

Young Guru Calls Cap On Dame Dash’s Claims Jay-Z “Stole” Other Rappers’ Songs

Dame Dash took time during an interview to talk about his former business partner Jay-Z. A clip of Dash discussing Hov’s alleged behind-the-scenes tactics caught the attention of Young Guru.

“Jay had a strategy of once somebody’s record was hot, jumping on it, and then it would be like it was his record,” Dame Dash stated on The Guads Show podcast. “And that’s f###ed up.”

Dash went on to claim that Jay-Z’s “Can I Get A…” was originally a Ja Rule song. The Roc-A-Fella Records co-founder also asserted that Omillio Sparks had “I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me)” first.

However, Young Guru—Hov’s longtime audio engineer—took to Twitter (X) to push back on the notion that Jay-Z ripped off songs.

“CAP on this narrative that Jay STEALS songs,” Young Guru posted. “1. Jay got [‘I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me)’] directly from Pharrell and made the song from scratch. Sparks says a Rick James hook.”

Guru also mentioned Murder Inc. Records CEO Irv Gotti. The Grammy winner added, “2. [‘Can I Get A…’] was Irv’s idea, literally said, ‘Jay get on this record but please keep Ja.’ I love you OG but nah.”

https://twitter.com/young_guru/status/1737655082391367992?s=43&t=xs88XTc6VRps9fEtROda-g

Jay-Z, Beyoncé & Family Tour New York Aboard Private Tour Bus 

Jay-Z and Beyoncé did Christmas sightseeing in style earlier this week, renting out a private bus for a tour of New York City. 

The Hip-Hop super couple were joined by family and friends on the bus, including daughter Blue Ivy and Hov’s mother, Gloria Carter, as they took in the festive city sights.  

Fans captured footage of the famous family on the Tea Around Town pink tour bus. The flowery double-decker bus serves guests a delightful-looking afternoon tea in a vintage setting.  

In between treats, Jay-Z and Beyoncé passed by Times Square, Bryant Park and other holiday spots, including Rockefeller Center’s iconic Christmas tree. 

Jay-Z And Beyoncé’s New York City tour follows Hov’s lavish birthday celebrations earlier this month at the Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte vineyards in the French wine region of Bordeaux. 

According to multiple reports, The Carters rented the vineyard’s entire five-star spa and hotel for the duration of their stay.  Guests enjoyed bottles of rare wines, including bottles of the 1969 vintage to mark the Roc Nation honcho’s birth year.  

Photos from the festivities, shared by Roc Nation vice president, Lenny Santiago, show Jay-Z laughing while standing at a candlelit table lined with 1969 Pétrus bottles. 

Meanwhile, Beyoncé recently announced an exciting Renaissance movie update. The concert film will soon be hitting theatres in Brazil, Italy, Japan, South Korea, and many other countries, satisfying fans who missed out.  

Rihanna Reveals Wardrobe Malfunction Led To Super Bowl Baby Reveal  

Rihanna broke the internet earlier this year after revealing her blossoming baby bump during her iconic Super Bowl Halftime Show performance

However, the superstar songstress has now let slip that the viral pregnancy reveal was completely unplanned and was actually a wardrobe snafu caused by her desire to hide her growing belly.  

Rihanna spoke about the moments leading up to her Super Bowl performance during the launch event for the Fenty x Puma Creeper Phatty in Los Angeles earlier this week.  

“Here’s the thing — I did what I have to do, right?” she explained. “My jumper couldn’t zip up. No one knew I was pregnant — I just told my stylist, ‘Make sure it’s stretchy.’”  

However, once she climbed into the red jumpsuit, the zipper wouldn’t fasten all the way up.  It reached the bottom of her bump and refused to budge. “The zip, it just stopped right there,” she added. “So it had to be what it had to be!” 

While Rihanna reportedly said her family was complete after welcoming her second child with A$AP Rocky earlier this year, the singer is yearning to hear the pitter-patter of tiny feet again, girl’s feet, that is.   

The couple had their first son, RZA, in May 2022 before the arrival of their second boy, Riot Rose, in August. 

When E! News asked if there was anything she couldn’t do the music and business mogul quipped, “So far, have daughters. I’m batting at 75 percent for a boy next time. So, we’ll just keep our fingers crossed.”

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