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J. Cole Says Drake Put His Ego Aside On “First Person Shooter,” Dismisses Joe Budden’s Critique

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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When Drake tapped J. Cole for the For All The Dogs standout track “First Person Shooter,” many said the OVO honcho allowed the Dreamville Records founder to out-rap him. 

Joe Budden was among the critics, citing the song as “a big part of what my overall issue is with Drake.” He also implied Cole lined Drake up, intending to get the better of him with his verse.  

“That’s not your man,” he declared on Episode 664 of The Joe Budden Podcast. “I hate to tell you rappers, [but] these are not your mans. That is a trained assassin! A murderer! A killer of all kinds. He has been on a spree, a murdering spree. Killing all of our favorites, like one by one, lining them up. He was waiting for you.” 

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Lil Yachty, who recently collaborated with J. Cole on “The Secret Recipe,” asked him about Budden’s criticism during the latest episode of Yachty’s  A Safe Place podcast.  

The “Poland” hitmaker said he felt like Joe Budden had a “a personal vendetta towards Drake,” leading him to say things like “Oh, Drake got washed.” 

However, Cole dismissed Budden’s comments, claiming that artists control the narrative.  

“The specific incident you’re talking about, that’s a whole different conversation,” Cole said. “But, in general, do I think the online media is a problem or do I think they’re a part of the problem? No, I don’t actually. I think music is the leader. The artists lead the conversation. [Journalists] can spin it a certain way, but ultimately we lead the conversation.” 

J. Cole Says Drake Put His Ego Aside On Their Collaboration

Cole also said that Drake wasn’t concerned with outshining him on “First Person Shooter,” and put his ego aside for the benefit of the track.  

“In that moment, [Drake] chose the song over the competition and what they  gonna say,” he continued. “And that takes a level of egolessness that’s… you’re putting your ego to the side and like, ‘Yo, I wanna make the best song.” 

Seemingly responding to Joe Budden’s claims, he added, “Drake ain’t looking at it like, ‘I’ma take Cole’s f#####’ head off at some point.’ Nah.” 

Check out the clip below and watch the episode at the end of the page.  

Pardison Fontaine Reacts To Rumor He Cheated On Megan Thee Stallion In Her Own Bed  

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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Pardison Fontaine is catching heat from fans who believe he cheated on Megan Thee Stallion following the release of her new single, “Cobra.” 

The Grammy Award-winning rapper shared the stunning visuals for her first single as an independent artist Friday (November 3). Watch the video below.  

While fans praised her lyrical abilities and vulnerability on the track – Megan gets candid about her struggles with depressional and suicidal ideation – they lost it over one line in particular. 

The lyric in question sees Meg recalling the time she caught a cheating ex with his pants down. To add insult to injury, she claims the dirty deed took place in her own bed.     

“Pulled up, caught him cheatin’, gettin’ his dick sucked in the same spot I’m sleepin’,” Meg raps. “Lord, give me a break, I don’t know how much more of this s### I can take.” 

Fans immediately began sharing their reaction on social media, pointing to Megan Thee Stallion ex’s Pardison Fontaine as the “Cobra” cheater. 

“pardi cheated on Megan,” one X user wrote, sharing a snippet from the song. “You weird bro you lost a good woman anyways #cobra ate.” 

They also targeted Pardi’s Instagram account, trolling him in the comment section of his latest posts.  

“How you get your dream girl then fumble like that,” one person wrote. “Pardison I can’t believe you omggg,” another stated, before adding Megan The Stallion “was the best you ever came across.”

A third person took aim at Pardi’s career, writing, “You’re dead ass wrong and that’s why you haven’t had a hit since cardi pardi!!” 

The “Backin’ It Up” hitmaker caught wind of the backlash and promptly limited the comments on his IG account. Check out some of the reactions below.  

Instagram/Pardison Fontaine
https://twitter.com/namufiIms/status/1720303369011835098?s=20

Megan Thee Stallion Sizzles In Racy “Cobra” Video, But Song Tells A Story Of Mental Health Struggles  

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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Megan Thee Stallion has shared the sensational video for her new single “Cobra,” her first since formally cutting ties with longtime label 1501 Certified Entertainment. 

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“Just as a snake sheds its skin, we must shed our past, over and over again,” Megan says to open the track. The stunning visuals show the H-Town Hottie shedding her skin as she raps about “hitting rock bottom” and overcoming her mental health struggles.  

“At night, I’m sittin’ in a dark room thinkin’/Probably why I always end up drinkin,’” she raps. “Yes, I’m very depressed / How can somebody so blessed wanna slit they wrist?” 

However, she later reflects, “Damn, I finally see it / I’m killing myself, when b###### would die to be me.” 

Watch the video below. 

Sharing the “Cobra” cover art on Instagram Earlier this week, Megan Thee Stallion explained the significance of the title: 

“Cobras exemplify courage and self-reliance. They stand tall and fierce in the face of challenges, teaching one to tap into their inner strength and rely on oneself to conquer their threats. Emulating the cobra helps one be more confident in the person they are within.” 

In September, Megan Thee Stallion launched a new mental health resources website named Seize The Awkward. 

“I’ve always been told I gotta be strong. Thick skinned. Stiff upper lip. Tough as nails,” Megan explained in a video announcing the platform. “But to be everything for everybody – it wears on you. ‘Black don’t crack’, they say. But it can. I can. We all can.” 

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50 Cent Laughs At Keefe D’s Legal Woes, Attacks Diddy Again Over 2Pac Murder Case

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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50 Cent continues to relentlessly taunt Diddy concerning the infamous murder of Tupac Shakur. Duane “Keefe D” Davis was arrested on September 29 and charged with the murder. Since then, 50 Cent has steadily taken aim at Diddy.

Shakur was tragically shot on the Las Vegas Strip on September 7, 1996 and succumbed to his wounds six days later. Davis confessed to his involvement in the murder alongside his nephew, Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson, in his autobiography “Compton Street Legend.”

In July, the Las Vegas Police Department conducted a series of raids that yielded sufficient evidence to charge Davis with murder using a deadly weapon and aiding a criminal gang.

On November 2, the ex-Crip pleaded not guilty with public defenders Robert Arroyo and Charles Cano representing him.

50 Cent put the heat on Diddy again, writing, “This s### is so funny to me. Keefe D getting ready to go on trial for murder with a public defender damn throw [him] a bone or something. LOL,” 50 Cent captioned the post.

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The discord between Shakur and Diddy was well-publicized, and stemmed from Shakur’s accusation that Diddy and The Notorious B.I.G. had prior knowledge of the 1994 shooting that left Shakur wounded.

The feud escalated through diss tracks, notably Shakur’s “Hit ‘Em Up,” which brazenly targeted Diddy, Biggie and others associated with Bad Boy Records.

Before Davis’ capture, he implicated Diddy in Shakur’s murder during an interview with the Art of Dialogue, claiming Diddy had offered a bounty for the hit on Suge Knight, who was with Shakur during the shooting.

Diddy has consistently refuted these allegations, and Shakur’s brother Mopreme shared that Diddy personally reached out to him to deny any involvement.

“The story is beyond ridiculous and completely false,” Diddy stated to AllHipHop.com in 2008. “Neither Biggie nor I had any knowledge of any attack before, during or after it happened. It is a complete lie to suggest that there was any involvement by Biggie or myself.”

Mopreme still concluded the Las Vegas Police Department needs to talk to the Bad Boy founder about his possible involvement in the case.

50 Years Of Hip-Hop Fashion Is Celebrated In Brooklyn

By: Rick Hazell Updated Category: Features
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Hip-Hop and style go hand-in-hand, basically partners from the very start. A recent celebration of 50 years of Hip-Hop fashion put the cultural impact of Hip-Hop on full display.

HipHopCloset.com, in partnership with Oracle Media and AllHipHop, hosted a pop-up fashion show in celebration of style of Hip-Hop. The well-attended affair took place at the Porsche of Brooklyn show room, which was converted into a runway.

Attendees included legendary producer Pete Rock and wife Shara McHayle of Hoop88Dreams, Steele (one half of the group formerly known as Smif-N-Wesson), Markuann Smith, the creator of “Godfather of Harlem,” 90s fashion stylist Sonya Magett as well as AllHipHop.com co-founder Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur.

The event was co-hosted and co-emceed by HipHopCloset.com co-founder Kyiesha Kelly and GoodGirlPR owner Nickie Robinson, who was instrumental in securing the facility and organizing the affair.


The models wore youthful, fashion forward representations of street wear in a manner that was authentic to their respective personalities, with style and flair being of the utmost importance. Elijah Phillips, son of Pete Rock, was among the models.

Fashion and Hip-Hop have always enjoyed a symbiotic relationship.  

The genre has always had a unique flare that is culmination of several factors; originating in New York City, a well known fashion epicenter. This the environment that first inspired young African-American, Caribbean and Latino interpretation stylistic interpretation of societal norms. Adding with street-based sensibilities was natural in terms of how to “rock” gear, look “fresh”, and be “fly”.

Style and Hip-Hop, from Ice-T and Run DMC to Westside Gunn and Kanye West, will continuously push the American fashion sensibilities forward.

The models were styled by Khaliah Clark while facial aesthetics were provided by makeup artist Chaz Pierna. Music was provided by DJ. T.  Boogie.

PinkPantheress & Kendrick Lamar Collab Foiled By iPhone’s “Do Not Disturb” Feature

By: Devon Jefferson Updated Category: Rumors
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PinkPantheress missed out on an opportunity to collaborate with Kendrick Lamar because she was out on a date night. The “Boy Is Liar” rapper revealed the bombshell claim during her recent interview with i-D Magazine in promotion of her upcoming debut album, Heaven Knows. PinkPantheress alleges she and an unidentified male suitor were in the midst of a date night when the debacle unfolded.

Apparently, this guy she was with had the nerve to request that his buzzing rap star date silence her phone and set it to “do not disturb” mode for the rest of the night. As a result, she purportedly missed the text to hit the studio while enjoying a thriller with her non-exclusive bae.

“Oh f**k, I can’t even think about it,’” she said before adding, “I was watching Nightcrawler with this guy.’”

It’s certainly a crying shame the world may never know how PinkPantheress’ hyper-pop stylings would’ve paired with Lamar’s Hip-Hop-head friendly sonic identity.

I guess all we can do now is hope that the powers that be will align, and PinkPantheress and Lamar will cross paths once again in the near future.

North West Prefers Kanye West’s Apartment Over Kim Kardashian’s Mansion: “Dad Is The Best”

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Kim Kardashian has revealed her daughter, North West, prefers Kanye West’s apartment to her mansion.

During Thursday’s (November 2) episode of The Kardashians, the 43-year-old reality star discussed her co-parenting relationship with her ex-husband and revealed to her sister Kourtney that North West, 10, prefers the rapper’s place to her opulent California mansion because he doesn’t have any staff.

“North, she’ll go to her dad’s, she’ll be like, ‘Dad is the best. He has it all figured out,” Kardashian said. “He doesn’t have a nanny. He doesn’t have a chef. He doesn’t have security. He lives in an apartment.’ And she’ll start crying, ‘Why don’t you have an apartment? I can’t believe we don’t have an apartment.'”

Kim Kardashian and Kanye West finalized their divorce in November 2022 and agreed to share joint physical and legal custody of their four children, although the SKIMS founder looks after the kids the majority of the time.

Kourtney admitted that her three children say the same about her ex Scott Disick’s house.

“They’ll do that at Scott’s too, like, ‘Dad has the best house. Your house sucks. He has the best house, it’s not super-big, the vibe’s better,'” she recalled. “I feel like everything falls on the parent that’s like more involved.”

During the episode, Kim and Kourtney Kardashian noted they’ve put their ongoing feud behind them and are now in “a good place.”

“We didn’t have a talk,” Kim Kardashian said, before the sisters exchanged a hug. “Like, nothing ever really happened. I think we’re just all kind of the same where we just don’t want to have a deep talk about it. We just want to move on. Just sweep it under the rug.”

Tupac Shakur Murder Case: Keefe D Enters Plea In Infamous 1996 Shooting

By: Kyle Eustice Updated Category: News
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The murder of Tupac Shakur has remained unsolved for more than 25 years. But investigators finally made an arrest in the case when they took Duane “Keefe D” Davis into custody on September 29. Now, the former gang member has entered his plea. According to KTNV Las Vegas, Davis appeared before Judge Tierra Jones for arraignment on Thursday (November 2) and entered a not guilty plea.

Special public defenders Robert Arroyo and Charles Cano were appointed to represent him after Davis lost his bid to retain local attorney Ross Goodman. Davis also waived his right to a speedy trial. The hearing began without Davis in the courtroom. Instead, he was led in separately, in handcuffs and leg shackles. He’s understood to be in protective custody for his safety. State prosecutors told Judge Jones they aren’t seeking the death penalty.

Authorities said Davis “ordered the death” of Shakur and the attempted murder of Suge Knight, who was in the car with the late rapper. Davis publicly admitted his involvement in the 1996 shooting in interviews and a memoir titled Compton Street Legend.

“Duane Davis was the shot caller for this group of individuals that committed this crime,” Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Lt. Jason Johansson said. “And he orchestrated the plan that was carried out.”

Davis is the uncle of the late Orlando Anderson, who was long considered the prime suspect in Shakur’s murder. He’s been charged with one count of murder with the use of a deadly weapon and with the intent to promote, further or assist a criminal gang. If convicted, the Compton-raised drug dealer could be sentenced to 30 years in jail.

Shakur was shot near the intersection of Flamingo Road and Koval Lane in Las Vegas on September 7 after getting into a scuffle with Anderson. He died six days later at University of Nevada Medical Center.

J. Cole Isn’t In Competition With Yeat, Drake Or Even Himself—He’s Just Chill Like That

By: Devon Jefferson Updated Category: Rumors
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J. Cole may have just proven he’s the chillest rapper to rock a crown based on his new take about the success of his peers Drake and Yeat.

Cole is seemingly set to appear on the trending podcast series spearheaded Lil Yachty and Co. During the conversation, the Dreamville General revealed his true feelings about being a part of Drake’s latest chart milestone. More specifically, Cole discussed his feelings about Drake supposedly surpassing Michael Jackson’s record for Billboard chart toppers.

“If it would’ve went No. 2 it wouldn’t have—I wouldn’t have felt no way,” Cole said in part. “If the other song would’ve went No. 1 it’s like, ‘Bruh I would’ve been like cool.’

“I almost felt better not having my first No. 1 be off of a Drake alley-oop, you know what I mean?” Cole said before adding “I love Drake and I’m grateful that I’m a part of that moment with him and Michael Jackson. But if the other song would’ve went No. 1, I’m still grateful I’m a part of it.”

Cole finished up using his raspy stomach vernacular and it’s actually quite a comical moment. But in the end, he really just proved how unbothered he is by the weight of his success. Even more so, he just showed how genuinely happy he is to see the success of his peers and young guns such as Yeat.

Check out the full clip below.

Mariah Carey Sued (Again) Over Hit Song “All I Want For Christmas Is You”

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News
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Mariah Carey is reportedly being sued (again) over her hit single, “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” According to Billboard, the plaintiff, Andy Stone, alleges the song sounds too much like his 1989 hit of the same name, and he wants to be compensated for it.

Carey’s song, which has spent more than 58 weeks at No. 1 during the almost three decades since its 2000 release, was featured on her Merry Christmas album and is her biggest-selling song to date. The other song by Stone (aka Vince Vance & The Valiants) had significantly less success. Still, the artist and his co-writer, Troy Powers, insist that Carey, her production team and Sony Music Entertainment ripped them off.

Stone and Powers filed the lawsuit in April 2021 and rescinded it in 2022. Now, as the 2023 holiday season approaches, they are back. They’re being represented by Gerard P. Fox, the same attorney who represented two songwriters who accused Taylor Swift of stealing the lyrics to “Shake It Off.” 

“Melody, lyrics, feel, when you combine these three elements and base your derivative copy on something that is more alike than dislike, it is those substantial similarities that will upon closer inspection reveal the truth of Plaintiffs’ claim of infringement,” the court documents read.

Despite Carey, her label and the average listener thinking the lawsuit is frivolous, Stone and his partner contend they need to get paid to the tune of $20 million. 

“Carey has, without licensing, palmed off these works with her incredulous origin story, as if those works were her own,” the docs continued. “Her hubris knowing no bounds, even her co-credited songwriter doesn’t believe the story she has spun. This is simply a case of actionable infringement.”

In preparation for the song’s annual holiday run, Carey launching the Merry Christmas One And All! Tour from November 15 in California to December 17 at Madison Square Garden in New York. There will be a total of 13 dates for fans to attend.

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Keefe D Needs Defense Lawyer As He Fights Tupac Shakur Murder Case

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News
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Keefe D reportedly doesn’t have an attorney to help him fight the Tupac Shakur murder case. According to the New York Post, the former gang member is expected to enter a plea of not guilty when arraigned on charges of orchestrating the murder in court.

Ross Goodman, the defense lawyer who previously represented the Compton native, is no longer on the team. His office hasn’t divulged why he’s no longer on the case.

Tupac Shakur

As previously reported, Keefe D was arrested and charged with one count of murder with the use of a deadly weapon and with the intent to promote, further or assist a criminal gang.

When he was speaking on behalf of Keefe D, Goodman’s initial strategy was to attack the substantiality of the prosecution’s evidence. He argued that the state lacked key evidence and witnesses to pin the nearly 1996 killing on his ex-client.

The prosecution has looked to the many interviews Keefe D has done about the murder, the book he wrote about the murder and all of the artifacts he collected over the years regarding the murder as evidence. Now, the question is if he will be able to secure another lawyer or if the judge will appoint him a public defender.

Rap Royalty Reels: Delving into Hip-Hop Themed Slot Games

By: Staff Writer Updated Category: Uncategorized
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In the vibrant world of online slots, thematic innovation is a driving force behind engaging and retaining gamers. One theme that has recently captured the imagination of both developers and players is the effervescent culture of hip-hop. Let’s stroll through the flashy street of hip-hop themed slot games, encountering their unique features and the developers that brought them to life.

The journey starts with Wild Beats, a game that stands out for its unique hip-hop ambiance in a market often dominated by ancient Egyptian or treasure-trove laden themes. This slot game is a fresh breeze for hip-hop enthusiasts, providing a rhythmic gaming experience​​.

Next on our playlist is Hip Hop Panda. This playful slot not only offers a hip-hop theme but also features a rap-loving panda, blending humor with rhythm in a slot gaming scenario. The game showcases how hip-hop can infuse fun into the traditional slot gameplay, making every spin a musical adventure​.

In the animal-themed hip-hop universe, Top Dawg$ by Relax Gaming also makes a mark. Designed primarily for mobile devices, this game closely ties with hip-hop culture, featuring a unique animal theme blended with rhythmic beats. With five reels to spin, it’s a mobile-friendly option for hip-hop heads on the go​3.

Venturing into the celebrity angle, Pimped by Play N Go puts a glamorous spin on hip-hop culture. With high paying symbols resembling hip-hop icon Snoop Dogg, and other symbols depicting the genre’s luxurious lifestyle, it’s a flashy dive into the world of rap royalty​​.

Hustling by Red Tiger Gaming, is another gem in the hip-hop slots genre, released in December 2021. Although details about its hip-hop elements are scant, it’s part of the rap reels family showcasing the genre’s influence on slot gaming​​.

Jokerens and HipHopPop are other notable mentions in the hip-hop slots lineup, although the specifics of their hip-hop elements are not well detailed. Nonetheless, their inclusion in the hip-hop-themed slots list underscores the genre’s growing influence in the online gaming world​.

Microgaming’s Hip Hop Opotamus and Playtech’s Wild Beast, both playable at sites like JeffBet, add even more variety to the hip-hop slots collection.

While Hip Hop Opotamus does not detail its hip-hop elements, Wild Beast embraces an urban hip-hop theme, offering 25 paylines and 5 reels for a rhythmic gaming experience​​.

The emergence of hip-hop-themed slots is a testament to the genre’s wide appeal and its creative infusion into the gaming industry. These games not only provide a unique gaming experience but also celebrate the vibrant culture of hip-hop, making every spin a rhythmic journey through the rap royalty reels.

Mix Master Mike: Rock Hall Inductee, DMC World DJ Champion—Now, DMC Legend Award Winner

By: Kyle Eustice Updated Category: Exclusives
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Before Mix Master Mike was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Beastie Boys, he was already considered a preeminent turntablist. As a founding member of the Invisibl Skratch Piklz—which (at various times) included Shortkut, DJ Qbert, D-Styles, DJ Disk, DJ Flare, Yogafrog, A-Trak and DJ Apollo—the DMC World DJ Champion took the art form to new heights with innovative routines, otherworldly techniques and a zest for Hip-Hop culture.

Now, Mix Master Mike’s storied career will come full circle when he’s honored with the DMC Legend Award at the DMC World Finals in San Fransisco on Friday (November 3). Hosted by DJ Rhettmatic and DJ Babu, the event takes place at The Midway with special guests Dilated Peoples, UZ, Invisibl Skratch Piklz (Shortkut, D Styles and DJ Qbert), Kentaro and DJ Rena, among others.

Interestingly enough, Mix Master Mike will probably the last person to refer to himself as a DJ. In fact, he tells AllHipHop, “Every time I’m making an album, I go in with the mindset of being a composer. Again, I’ve always been a composer first, but then I kind of tricked everybody into thinking I was a DJ, but I’m  not really a DJ. I’m a wizard that can DJ really good.”

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Needless to say, the DMC Legend Award is well deserved. Mix Master Mike rose to prominence in the early ’90s and by 1997 had manifested his place in the Beastie Boys. Together, they released the multi-platinum album Hello Nasty in 1998. Mix Master Mike would continue working with the group until Adam “MCA” Yauch’s death in 2012, contributing to 2004’s To the 5 Boroughs, 2007’s The Mix-Up and 2011’s Hot Sauce Committee Part Two. But at the end of the day, it’s really a small fraction of what Mix Master Mike has accomplished.

“It was crazy,” he says of learning about the lifetime achievement award. “I started thinking about all that I went through to get to this point in my life. I don’t do it for accolades. I do it because I have a passion for this art. It’s through integrity, perseverance, not compromising and just always being the ultimate risk taker. The something like this drops in your lap, and you’re like, ‘Oh, s###, I’ve been doing it this long.’ I look up and my jersey’s in the rafters. It solidifies my whole brand and my whole not being  Mix Master Mike of the Beastie Boys but Mix Master Mike of Mix Master Mike. It’s going to be really emotional for me.”

He continues, “I don’t want to [cry], but I got a special set that I’m going to be performing for everybody. I’m putting my energy into that and to give a memorable performance, to give back to everybody and really lay it all out there. And just, I guess show why I’m up there.”

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In addition to touring with groups like Metallica and Godsmack, Mix Master Mike has pumped out several solo albums over the last few years, including 2022’s Ready Slayer One. Coincidentally, on the day he receives his award, he’ll drop his eighth studio album, OPUS X MAGNUM.

“Creating projects for me is therapy,” he says. “OI guess it’s a way to escape myself and things that are going on in the world. I’m an empath. When s### goes sideways, I feel the repercussion of the world going sideways, because I’m just like, ‘Damn, how can I use my platform to help?'”

With Hip-Hop and rap in general perceivably at a low point, that was actually the motivation Mix Master Mike needed. As he explains, “That’s where all my inspiration comes from. Because I’m like, ‘OK, no one’s gonna f####ing do it. I’ll do it. This is what I’ve been always growing myself to be is is is a trailblazer. And someone who’s gonna do something that is not being done.”

For more information about the DMC World Finals, head here.

Usher Teases Special Guests For Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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R&B/Pop superstar Usher Raymond will headline the upcoming Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show on February 11, 2024 in Paradise, Nevada. Fans can likely expect some other performers to join him on stage that night.

Extra spoke to Usher about the upcoming mid-game concert. The 8-time Grammy Award winner recalled finding out about securing one of the biggest gigs in music.

“When I got the call, I was like, ‘Man, I’ve been working really hard my entire career. The preparation didn’t start within the last two years of performing in Las Vegas,” Usher stated.

The Dallas-born, Atlanta-raised singer also said, “It really started 30 years ago, and my commitment to it and the journey that I’ve taken musically is why I think I’m given that moment.”

Many Super Bowl Halftime Show headliners invite special guests to perform with them at the NFL event. For example, the Dr. Dre-led performance in 2022 also featured Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar, 50 Cent and Anderson .Paak.

“I do want to play the songs that people obviously recognize and the ones that I celebrate, I’ve been able to laugh, I have been able to cry, I have been vulnerable, I’ve been telling and honest,” Usher told Extra‘s Mona Kosar Abdi.

Usher then hinted at additional talent appearing during the Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show. The Confessions album creator said, “I’ve also collaborated with a lot of people in the process, so… there’s a celebration there.”

Throughout his four-decade career, Usher has created tunes with acts such as Lil Jon, Ludacris, Alicia Keys, Diddy, Young Jeezy, Nicki Minaj, Chris Brown, will.i.am, City Girls, Summer Walker and 21 Savage. His ninth studio LP, Coming Home, will arrive on February 11, 2024, the same day as the Super Bowl.

DJ Jazzy Jeff & “The Fresh Prince” Will Smith To Reunite For Grammy’s Hip-Hop 50 TV Special

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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Will Smith will not be able to attend the Academy Awards’ Oscar ceremony until at least 2032, but the legendary actor/rapper will be part of a televised music event presented by the Recording Academy.

“A Grammy Salute to 50 Years of Hip-Hop” will help close out the year-long celebration of the culture. Will Smith (aka The Fresh Prince) will reunite with his longtime entertainment industry partner DJ Jazzy Jeff for the show.

DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince will join Black Thought, Bun B, Common, De La Soul, Jermaine Dupri, J.J. Fad, Talib Kweli, The Lady Of Rage, LL COOL J, MC Sha-Rock, Monie Love, The Pharcyde, Queen Latifah, Questlove, Rakim, Remy Ma, Uncle Luke and Yo-Yo.

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In addition, viewers will get to see performances by 2 Chainz, T.I., Gunna, Too $hort, Latto, E-40, Big Daddy Kane, GloRilla, Juvenile, Three 6 Mafia, Cypress Hill, Jeezy, DJ Quik, MC Lyte, Roxanne Shanté, Warren G, YG, Digable Planets, Arrested Development, Spinderella, Black Sheep and Luniz.

Prior to becoming a Hollywood legend, Will Smith became a Grammy-winning recording artist as one-half of the DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince duo. The two Philadelphia natives created classic rap hits such as “Parents Just Don’t Understand” and “Summertime.”

Both Will Smith and Jazzy Jeff (born Jeffrey Townes) also starred in the groundbreaking NBC sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air which ran for six seasons from 1990 to 1996. The Quincy Jones-produced program’s iconic theme song included memorable bars by The Fresh Prince.

The Recording Academy will tape the two-hour “A Grammy Salute to 50 Years of Hip-Hop” tribute special on November 8 at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California. The concert event will air on December 10 on CBS and Paramount+.

Lil Nas X Responds To Backlash Over His Tampon Halloween Costume

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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America is now two days removed from Halloween 2023, but a certain outfit from the trick-or-treating holiday still has some people up in arms. Lil Nas X’s bloody tampon costume was met with negative reactions online.

Less than an hour after Halloween was over on the East Coast, Lil Nas X revealed he dressed as the menstrual product. A video featured the 24-year-old walking down a sidewalk while holding a long string attached to a large, fake v#####.

Lil Nas X also uploaded another video showing off his tampon costume. In that clip, the Montero album creator referenced Latto’s “Put It on da Floor” single, by saying, “Rip me out the p####, I been acting brand new.”

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Some social media users praised Lil Nas for his getup. In contrast, detractors accused the male rapper of being misogynistic and making a mockery of women. He addressed the criticism in an online post.

“I [have] been silent for nearly 2 years, y’all are not finna pretend to be mad about a tampon costume. Let me at least get new music out first,” wrote Lil Nas X on the X platform.

Lil Nas X released his debut studio LP, Montero, in September 2021 via Columbia Records. The 15-track project hosted the Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 songs “Montero (Call Me by Your Name)” and “Industry Baby” with Jack Harlow.

Last year, LNX linked with YoungBoy Never Broke Again for the “Late to da Party” collaboration which peaked at No. 67 on the Hot 100 chart. 2022’s “Star Walkin’ (League of Legends Worlds Anthem)” by Lil Nas leveled off at No. 32.

Summer Walker, SZA & Usher Lead 2023 Soul Train Award Nominations 

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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The 2023 Soul Train Awards will air on Sunday, November 26 at 8 pm ET/PT on BET and BET Her. This year’s list of nominees includes some of the top names in R&B, Soul, and Hip-Hop.

Summer Walker, SZA, and Usher head into the ceremony with the most nominations with nine each. All three recording artists made it into the Song Of The Year category.

Usher’s “Good Good” featuring Summer Walker and 21 Savage as well as SZA’s “Kill Bill” and “Snooze” will compete for SOTY against “Back to Your Place” by October London, “Favorite Song” by Toosii, “ICU” by Coco Jones, “Lipstick Lover” by Janelle Monáe and “On My Mama” by Victoria Monét.

Album Of The Year will go to Janelle Monáe (The Age of Pleasure), Ari Lennox (Age/Sex/Location), Summer Walker (Clear 2: Soft Life EP), Babyface (Girls Night Out (Extended)), Burna Boy (I Told Them…), Victoria Monét (Jaguar II), SZA (SOS) or Coco Jones (What I Didn’t Tell You (Deluxe)).

Victoria Monét and Coco Jones tied with six Soul Train Award nominations. Jones is also one of the likely favorites to win Best New Artist. The Bel-Air actress is up against Ambré, Ayra Starr, Doechii, Flo, Fridayy, Tyla and WanMor.

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Atlanta-bred rapper 21 Savage picked up eight nods, the second most behind R&B stars Summer Walker, SZA, and Usher. In addition, Burna Boy, Chris Brown, Janelle Monáe, and October London each received four nominations.

“Soul, R&B, and Hip-Hop continue to top the charts and drive culture forward. This year, we are taking inspiration from these genres to innovate and disrupt the award show format while celebrating the legacy of Soul Train,” says Connie Orlando, EVP Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy.

Connie Orlando also adds, “We are proud of this year’s list of esteemed nominees and look to deliver an unforgettable night of Soul with our new location, performances, and show moments.”

The 2023 Soul Train Awards will be taped from Los Angeles, California. To see the full list of nominees visit www.bet.com/soul-train-awards.

Yung Miami Reacts To Akademiks Crying Over Saucy Santana’s Rant

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY) Updated Category: News
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The ongoing online battle of DJ Akademiks versus Yung Miami and Saucy Santana has taken another dramatic step. Santana’s viral takedown of Akademiks left the YouTuber visibly shaken.

Yung Miami and DJ Akademiks have been feuding for months. The bad blood recently rose to another level after Ak publicly criticized Miami’s group, the City Girls, and their low album sales.

City Girls’ close confidant, Saucy Santana, jumped into the situation. Akademiks then referred to Santana as a “batty man” and “c#########.” Ak also challenged the openly gay entertainer to a confrontation which led to the “Material Gworrllllllll!” rapper delivering a vicious rant.

“We want to meet you outside. I want to meet you outside. I don’t want to pull up to no m############ headquarters, corporate ass-n####,” Santana stated. “I want to see you outside. Let’s get active.”

The former makeup artist also added, “After I beat you, I’m gonna f### you in your ass.” Those comments apparently did not sit well with DJ Akademiks. The often outspoken internet harasser broke down during a live broadcast.

“I don’t f### with certain s###. I would never like it,” Akademiks said in response to Saucy Santana’s sexual assault threat, according to The Neighborhood Talk. While holding back tears, Ak continued, “I’m telling you, I hate certain s### to the soul of me.”

Apparently, Yung Miami does not have any sympathy for Akademiks at the moment. The “Act Up” hitmaker offered her thoughts on Ak’s teary message in The Neighborhood Talk‘s comment section.

“I was in tears when he laughed and was trolling about my car getting shot up while I was 6 months pregnant 😢,” Yung Miami wrote on IG. That comment currently has over 13,000 likes on the platform.

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U.K Rapper Lady Leshurr Found Not Guilty of Assault But Says Allegations Ruined Her Career 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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Lady Leshurr has been cleared of assaulting her ex-girlfriend but says the court case ruined her career and left her with no income for the past year.  

On Wednesday (November 1), a jury found the U.K. rapper not guilty of two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, per BBC. Her former girlfriend Sidnee Hussein accused Lady Leshurr of biting her hand so badly that she suffered “nerve damage.” 

However, the rapper, who broke into the industry with her “Queen’s Speech” freestyle series, told the court Hussein’s then-partner Chante Boyea attacked her first. She claimed Boyea used her dog as a “weapon” during the incident in East London last October.  

After the verdict, Lady Leshurr claimed she “was the victim,” but has had to pay for it with her career. 

She thanked her supporters in an Instagram video update shared Wednesday following the not-guilty judgment.  

“For the past year I’ve been battling a court case from people that accused me of stalking, harassing, and biting them but I was the victim,” she penned in the caption. “I was attacked and bitten by a dog and made out to be the aggressor.” 

Lady Leshurr said she lost brand deals and was shunned by her peers over the allegations.  

“For a whole year I have had no income. Today has been judgement day,” she said, adding, “I’m shaking whilst I write this.” 

Ultimately, the 35-year-old said her career was ruined regardless of the outcome. Nonetheless, Leshurr resolved to “FINALLY get on with my life.” Check out her post below.  

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50 Cent Celebrates First Ever Diamond Hit For “In Da Club” 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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50 Cent has scored his first ever diamond-certified song with “In Da Club” two decades after the song was released in 2003. 

The G-Unit founder achieved the milestone on Wednesday (November 1) per Chart Data. Fiddy took to Instagram to celebrate the song that served as the lead single from his seminal debut album, Get Rich or Die Tryin’. 

50 Cent shared a graphic of the diamond certification while reflecting on reaching 10 times platinum status.  

“In Da Club has officially reached Diamond,” he penned in the caption. “10,000,000 singles sold. The 43rd Hip Hop song to go Diamond, 121 songs of all time to do it. I feel good I’m that thing 50cent.” 

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“Diamonds are forever,” 50 Cent wrote in a follow-up post before adding, “yo that thing 50cent is no joke.” Watch the video below. 

“In Da Club” rocketed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in February 2003, giving 50 Cent his first-ever No. 1 hit. 

At the 20th anniversary this year, 50 Cent reflected on the longevity of his debut album. 

“I’ve been celebrating the same thing for 20 years,’ he revealed to Rolling Stone. “It’s exciting to reach the 20-year mark in anything when hip-hop is a youth culture, out with the old, in with the new. So it means more that you’re able to stick around and be able to sustain relevance.