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Arsonal Drops New Video For ‘Dumb Sh*t’ With Icewear Vezzo

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

If you think battle rappers are only good in competition, you must not be watching what those boys over in New Jersey do.

From Tsu Surf to Shotgun Suge (the AllHipHop.com #1 Male Battler of the Year) to Nu Jerzey Twork to Real Sikh, the battle emcees from the Garden State have been putting it down on stages and on beats for years— making significant waves. #FreeTheWave

One of the most prolific and successful of the collective is Mr. Disrespect himself, Arsonal Da Rebel. Ars has worked with everyone from Fetty Wap to Wyclef Jean and is about to go on tour with Montana 300.

Now, the artist, who can boast that he is the most viewed English-Speaking and one of the most popular battle rappers in the world, claiming almost 20 years in the profession, is gearing up to drop new music. The first offering is “Dumb Sh#t” featuring Icewear Vezzo. On Thursday, Jan. 12, the artist dropped a visual for the song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agwg8bIfcXg

Fans will note that rapper Shotgun Suge, who also has new music on the way, is in the back chilling.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CnTjeBcI4ll/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

“U never disappoint!!! Beats always on point!!!” one person said in the comments.

Another person added, “Damn this s### dope af!!. I never knew Arsonal made music.”

Vice Versa hopped in the comments and said, “Arsonal is the beast straight street heat.”

“This caught me off guard, this s### smoking,” a fan said in amazement.

Arsonal originally presented the project at his birthday party in December 2022.

Sheryl Lee Ralph Stands By Kardashian Remarks

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

Award-winning Sheryl Lee Ralph continues to shine in the culture, on screen, on stage, and on every red carpet she steps on. Sure, the diva is glammed up, but she is also dropping jewels on the next generation, motivating to reach for their highest selves and to pay attention to how the Kardashians paid to have Black features.

While on the red carpet for the Golden Globes, she was asked what she would say to her 15-year-old self if she had that opportunity.

The former Dreamgirls said she would tell herself, “There’s nothing wrong with your nose. There is nothing wrong with the shade of your skin. There is nothing wrong with the way your hair grows out of your head and there is certainly nothing wrong with your lips because there will be some people called [the] Kardashians and they will pay $10,000 for your lips. Hang in there, Sheryl Lee Ralph, you are good!”

Of course, she got back lash. But she stood in her truth like a whole Black woman should, tweeting later, “I said what I said. Now, I’m going to bed. Goodnight!”

One of her sister actors, Holly Robinson Peete followed up with “But where was the lie?”

The truth is the Kardashians and the Jenners have all admitted to having lip injections.

Kylie Jenner, who is the second most wealthy of the family, admitted in 2015, “I have temporary lip fillers. It’s just an insecurity of mine.” At one point she lied about it but so many people have detailed her drastic change of appearance over the year, she just could not anymore.

Kim, however, has never admitted to plumping up her lips.

CLASSIC HARLEM: Cam’ron Vs. Mendeecees In Epic Tap Battle

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

Forget Verzuz, the Dipset head honcho has found himself in the middle of yet another battle.

This time, Killa Cam is not going head-to-head on the mic or bar-for-bar with his rhymes but proving his supremacy on the dance floor. While fans have seen Cam do a little b-boying over the years, popping here and there, no one knew he could actually “tap.” (Well, sorta).

Cam’ron took to social media and shared on his Instagram a clip of an epic tap-off that he had with Mendeecees Harris, life partner of Hip-Hop insider Yandy Smith, regular on “Love and Hip-Hop: NY,” and fellow Harlem native.

Mendeecees hits him with a simple clickety-clack, but as smooth as he was, he had no idea what to expect from Killa.

Clearly the “Hey Ma” chart-topper had been watching some old Nicholas Brothers routines because, from the gate, he rolls up Mendeecees with a shuffle that even Gregory Hines would be envious of and then tosses his red and black jacket to the ground.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by @mr_camron

The comments exploded with most people like Peter Gunz, Uncle Murda, Jay Pharoah, Busta Rhymes, Lord Finesse and more just cracking up laughing.

Popular comedian and podcaster, DontCallMeWhiteGirl declared a definitive winner based off the clip, writing, “Clearly Cam won.”

Yandy wrote, “TWO HARLEM LEGENDS AND lil ole me😂😂😂😂😂😂. Y’all killed it! I’m still dying.”

According to Cam, the full video of the battle will be released on Monday, Jan. 23 and we can’t wait!

And just in case you don’t know who the Harlem legends The Nicholas Brothers are … check this out … Hip-Hop before Hip-Hop was a thing!

Quentin Miller Says Big Sean Not Giving Him Writing Credit Broke His Heart

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

Infamous “ghostwriter” Quentin Miller is back in the news again. The Atlanta native best known for penning bars for Drake has now turned his attention to Big Sean.

Quentin Miller sat down with VladTV for an interview. During the conversation, Miller recalled his experience working with Big Sean around the time of the recording sessions for the 2021 EP What You Expect.

“Big Sean – that really broke my heart,” said Quentin Miller before discussing how he met Sean when the Detroit-raised rapper collaborated with Drake for their “Blessings” single off the Dark Sky Paradise album.

Miller also stated, “When I get to working with Sean on this last project, the What You Expect with Hit-Boy, I’m part of three songs. There are only six songs on there. We’re texting and talking every day. I’m pulling up on Sean’s crib, like, every other day.”

According to Quentin Miller, his association with Big Sean ended with Kanye West’s former protégé ghosting him. Miller also claimed Sean planned to drop What You Expect without even informing him about the release of the project.

“Maybe, like, a week before the album drops, [Big Sean’s] just not responding to me at all,” Miller asserted. “Then, like a week before, I’m in the studio with Hit-Boy. I just randomly hear in a conversation with Hit, ‘Yeah, the album drops next week.’ I’m like, ‘Wait, what?’ I didn’t even know.'”

Big Sean teamed with producer Hit-Boy for What You Expect. Quentin Miller’s name is presently listed as a composer/lyricist for the What You Expect tracks “Chaos” and “Offense.” However, Miller maintains he did not initially receive official acknowledgment for his contribution to Sean’s project.

“Then the s### comes out. We still ain’t sign the paperwork or nothing. My name was not on the credits. It was not on the credits for like the first three months,” said Quentin Miller. “I’m blowing them up like, ‘Yo, what’s up? I didn’t know we were doing the ghostwriter thing because if that was the case, I would’ve asked for some cash.”

Miller went on to say that he had to fight to get his name in the credits. The WDNG Crshrs member also disclosed, “That situation really hurt. It was just like, ‘Damn, it’s everybody. It’s all over.’ That one really disappointed me because I thought dude was solid.”

That Was Fast! Kanye West Gets Married

By: AllHipHop StaffCategory: News

Kanye West has reportedly married Yeezy designer Bianca Censori.

Sources connected to the couple said that the rapper recently tied the knot with Bianca in a private ceremony.

However, the union may not be legally binding as they have reportedly not filed a marriage certificate.

Kanye was spotted wearing a wedding ring when he and Bianca arrived at the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Beverly Hills, California on Sunday.

Sources say the band “symbolizes his commitment” to Bianca following the secret ceremony.

According to her LinkedIn profile, Bianca has worked at Kanye’s Yeezy clothing and footwear brand since 2020 in the roles of Architectural Designer and Head of Architecture.

Kanye, 45, was spotted having lunch with Bianca, then called a “mystery blonde”, inside the Waldorf Astoria on Monday.

He released a song called Censori Overload, seemingly a tribute to his new partner, last month.

The marriage report comes two months after Kanye finalized his divorce from Kim Kardashian, the mother of his four children.

They parted ways in 2021 after almost seven years of marriage.
Kanye, also known as Ye, has yet to publicly confirm the speculation.

Beyoncé & Kendrick Lamar Lead 2023 NAACP Image Awards Music Nominations

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

Both Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar released well-received, commercially successful albums in 2022. The NAACP Image Award recognized the “Freedom” collaborators for their work last year with multiple nominations.

Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar lead the civil rights organization’s list of recording nominees for the 54th NAACP Image Awards with 5 nods each. The Outstanding Album category includes Lamar’s Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers and Bey’s Renaissance.

Ari Lennox’s age/sex/location, Chris Brown’s Breezy (Deluxe), and PJ Morton’s Watch the Sun are also up for Outstanding Album. In addition, Beyoncé will compete for Outstanding Female Artist while Kendrick Lamar’s name is listed in the Outstanding Male Artist section.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever scored 12 nominations across the motion picture categories. The Netflix streaming service earned 15 total nominations for A Jazzman’s Blues, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, and other productions.

Abbott Elementary received 9 nominations, the most for a program in the television + streaming categories. Penguin Random House and Harper Collins top the literary nominations categories with 9 nods, respectively.

The Public Gets To Vote On The 54th NAACP Image Award Winners

“This year’s nominees have conveyed a wide range of authentic stories and diverse experiences that have resonated with many in our community, and we’re proud to recognize their outstanding achievements and performances,” said Derrick Johnson, President/CEO of the NAACP.

A public vote determines the winners of the 54th NAACP Image Awards. The voting period closes on February 10, 2023. Winners will be revealed during a televised broadcast on February 25, 2023, on the BET network.

“We take pride in recognizing the trailblazing achievements and artistry of this year’s esteemed nominees and celebrating the powerful legacy of the NAACP,” said Connie Orlando, EVP of Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy, BET.

Connie Orlando continues, “We look forward to bringing the Image Awards back to Pasadena in front of a live audience and delivering unforgettable moments that epitomize the brilliance of the Black community.”

Check on some of the nominees for the 54th NAACP Image Awards below. To see the full list of nominations and to cast a vote for the possible winners visit naacpimageawards.net.

Select 54th NAACP Image Awards Nominees:

Entertainer Of The Year

  • Angela Bassett
  • Mary J. Blige
  • Quinta Brunson
  • Viola Davis
  • Zendaya

Outstanding Male Artist

  • Brent Faiyaz – Wasteland (Lost Kids)
  • Burna Boy – Love, Damini (Atlantic Records)
  • Chris Brown – Breezy (Deluxe) (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
  • Drake – Honestly, Nevermind (OVO/Republic Records)
  • Kendrick Lamar – Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers (pgLang/Top Dawg Entertainment/Aftermath/Interscope Records)

Outstanding Female Artist

  • Ari Lennox – age/sex/location (Dreamville/Interscope Records)
  • Beyoncé – Renaissance (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment)
  • Chlöe – Surprise (Columbia Records/Parkwood Entertainment)
  • Jazmine Sullivan – Hurt Me So Good (RCA Records)
  • SZA – S.O.S. (RCA Records/Top Dawg Entertainment)

Outstanding Album

  • age/sex/location – Ari Lennox (Dreamville/Interscope Records)
  • Breezy (Deluxe) – Chris Brown (RCA Records/Chris Brown Entertainment)
  • Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers – Kendrick Lamar (pgLang/Top Dawg Entertainment/Aftermath/Interscope Records)
  • Renaissance – Beyoncé (Parkwood/Columbia Records)
  • Watch the Sun – PJ Morton (Morton Records)

Outstanding Hip Hop/Rap Song 

  • Billie Eilish – Armani White (Def Jam Recordings)
  • City of Gods – Fivio Foreign (Columbia Records)
  • Hotel Lobby – Quavo, Takeoff (Motown Records/Quality Control Music)
  • The Heart Part 5 – Kendrick Lamar (pgLang/Top Dawg Entertainment/Aftermath/Interscope Records)
  • Wait for U – Future feat. Drake and Tems (Epic Records)

Outstanding Soul/R&B Song

  • About Damn Time – Lizzo (Atlantic Records)
  • Cuff It – Beyoncé (Columbia Record/Parkwood Entertainment)
  • Good Morning Gorgeous Remix feat. H.E.R. – Mary J. Blige (300)
  • Hurt Me So Good – Jazmine Sullivan (RCA Records)
  • Lift Me Up – Rihanna (Def Jam Recordings)

Outstanding Motion Picture

  • A Jazzman’s Blues (Netflix)
  • Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (Marvel Studios)
  • Emancipation (Apple TV)
  • The Woman King (Sony Pictures Releasing)
  • TILL (United Artists Releasing/Orion Pictures)

Outstanding Comedy Series

  • Abbott Elementary (ABC)
  • Atlanta (FX)
  • black-ish (ABC)
  • Rap Sh!t (HBO Max)
  • The Wonder Years (ABC)

Outstanding Drama Series

  • Bel-Air (Peacock)
  • Bridgerton (Netflix)
  • Euphoria (HBO Max)
  • P-Valley (Starz)
  • Queen Sugar (OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network)

Outstanding Reality Program, Reality Competition or Game Show (Series)

  • Legendary (HBO Max)
  • Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls (Amazon Studios)
  • Shark Tank (ABC)
  • Sweet Life: Los Angeles (HBO Max)
  • The Real Housewives of Atlanta (Bravo)

Saweetie To Appear In Season 2 Of ‘Bel-Air’

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

Peacock’s Bel-Air returns to the Comcast-owned streaming service on February 23, 2023. Hip Hop star Diamonté “Saweetie” Harper will appear in the one-hour drama series.

Saweetie’s cameo as herself will be part of the season 2 premiere. In addition, Brooklyn McLinn (Blackish), Jazlyn Martin (This Is Us), and Riele Downs (Darby and The Dead) joined Bel-Air as recurring cast members.

Best known for songs such as “My Type” and “Best Friend” featuring Doja Cat, Saweetie also has acting experience. The 29-year-old Californian played a celebrity named Indigo on Freeform’s college-themed sitcom Grown-ish.

Jabari Banks Is Back As “Will Smith” For New Installments Of Bel-Air

The reimagined version of the classic NBC sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air debuted in February 2022. The new Bel-Air stars Jabari Banks, Adrian Holmes, Cassandra Freeman, Olly Sholotan, Coco Jones, Akira Akbar, and Jimmy Akingbola. 

“I say it like this, if you took all of the characters from the 90s, but you dove into all of their diaries and all of their journals and what they were feeling internally, that’s what our show is,” said Jabari Banks about Bel-Air in an interview last year.

The West Philadelphia native added, “So that’s going to be super exciting for old fans and new fans to watch and you’re going to see a lot of callbacks to the original, a lot of tidbits, and a lot of easter eggs, so that’s going to be exciting as well.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bHs0xYD1ZAE

Kevin Gates Admits To Drinking His Partner’s Urine

By: Yohance Kyles (@HUEYmixwitRILEY)Category: News

Kevin Gates has gone viral once again for sharing intimate information about his sex life. The 36-year-old rapper shocked some people by admitting one act that involved urine.

Gates appeared on a Fancy Talk Show episode that was published on YouTube on January 7. It took a few days for a clip from the show to spread across the internet, but it has now gained significant attention.

“I love for a woman to p### in my mouth. That’s beautiful,” Gates said. The Khaza album creator also confessed, “I done had a woman pee in a cup while we were driving and I drunk it.”

Gates went on to explain, “I was so infatuated with this woman to where it was just nothing about her that was nasty. And then she’s super clean. She’s like me. She drinks nothing but water all day, so her p### ain’t got no taste.”

Kevin Gates has also been honest about performing analingus on his sexual partners. Previously, his “eating booty” admission was met with some backlash and ridicule. That moment from nine years ago introdcued Gates to some people.

“Yeah, I eat booty. Real n##### eat booty. Real n##### please their b######,” Kevin Gates said at the time. “I thought I was gonna be bashed for it, but they’re were some many brothers that were like in support of that.”

Gates’s sex stories made headlines, but the Southerner initially found success as a recording artist. The Islah studio LP dropped in 2016. The RIAA certified that album as 2x-Platinum. I’m Him arrived in 2019, followed by Khaza three years later.

Last year also saw Gates go viral online for his “D U Down” dance. In addition, the Baton Rouge-bred entertainer appeared on a July episode of TBS’s Dynamite wrestling show where he got into a scripted confrontation with AEW wrestler Tony Nese.

Tory Lanez Has “Forgiven” Megan Thee Stallion, His Father Says, But Claims “The Machine” Used Her Against His Son   

By: London JennnCategory: News

Tory Lanez’s father says while he and his son “forgave” Megan Thee Stallion a “long time ago,” they refuse to back down “from the machine,” that “used” her against the rapper.  

Sonstar Peterson, father of Daystar, or Tory Lanez, took to Instagram Live on Thursday night. He said although “it might come as a shock to many,” Tory Lanez, who maintained his innocence throughout his trial for shooting the Houston rapper, harbors no ill-will toward her.  

He stated, “Both my son, myself, and others of our family have long decided that we are not going to hold any animosity against Megan Thee Stallion.” Sonstar added, “the principle of forgiveness is important in order to cleanse one’s heart.” 

However, Tory Lanez’s father then claimed the mysterious “machine” used Megan Thee Stallion against his son. 

“Yes we have forgiven her,“ he continued before adding, “But what we will not back down from is the machine that has been in the background trying to press a narrative in order to use this girl for what they have used her for.”  

In December, jurors found Tory Lanez guilty of assault with a semiautomatic firearm, carrying a loaded unregistered firearm in a vehicle, and discharging a firearm with gross negligence.  

Check out the clip below and watch Sonstar Peterson’s full IG Live stream at the end of the page. 

Tory Lanez’s Father Speaks 

While Tory Lanez was being taken into custody following his guilty verdict last month (Dec. 23), his father was holding court for the press outside.  

“You wanna know exactly how I’m feeling?” he shouted to the reporters gathered outside the L.A. court. “I just stood here, in this Los Angeles County, and witnessed the worst miscarriage of justice this world has ever seen.” 

He then proceeded to call out “Alex Sipiro, Desiree Perez, and the whole wicked system of Roc Nation, including you Jay-Z.” 

Sonstar continued, “You who say you rose from the gutter, but you have traded and bargained, and tortured the souls of young men, and you’re still doing it.” 

Earlier this week, Judge David Herriford moved the rapper’s sentencing to Feb. 28 after he hired new lawyers. Tory Lanez is seeking a new trial. He faces a maximum of 22 years and eight months in prison. 

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CnV2BtSMk-o/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Rapper Bentley Bugz Is Brooklyn’s, Santa Claus

By: Staff WriterCategory: Music News

Brooklyn-based rapper Bentley Bugz is best known for his musical talents. With songs such as “They wanna know” and “Coming for my throne”, one can’t deny Bentley Bugz’s lyrical ability. The Canarsie native also seems to be making a name for himself in service to his community. Since the pandemic, Bentley Bugz has hosted a series of give-back efforts supporting the children and families of Canarsie. These include a Back-to-school give back, providing school supplies to students of the local Intermediate School Isaac Bildersee, where he too was once a student, as well as Turkey giveaways for the Thanksgiving holiday.

In his most recent endeavors, Bentley Bugz coordinated with the faculty of PS 272, located near Seaview park, to offer students some holiday cheer. The rapper provided the school with hundreds of toys and took the time to deliver the gifts personally dressed as none other than Santa Claus himself. The students appeared joyful, with many expressing gratitude for the experience. One child even proclaimed Bentley Bugz was the “best Santa Claus ever!”

Follow Bentley Bugz 

https://instagram.com/bentleybugz?igshid=NTdlMDg3MTY=

Meek Mill Pardoned By Pennsylvania Governor: “I’m Only Gone Do More For My Community” 

By: London JennnCategory: News

Meek Mill says he’s going to do even more for his community after he was pardoned this week.  

The “Dreams and Nightmares” hitmaker announced his amazing news on Instagram Thursday (Jan. 12). The pardon comes nearly 15 years after his conviction for drug-and-weapons-related charges. 

“I have taken this process very seriously,” a statement from the Governor’s office reads. “Reviewing and giving careful thought to each and every one of these 2,540 pardons and the lives they will impact. Every single one of the Pennsylvanians who made it through the process truly deserves their second chance, and it’s been my honor to grant it.” 

Meek Mill Vows To Do More Community Work After Being Pardoned

He shared a photo of the declaration signed by Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf. “Thankyall 🥲 I’m only gone do more for my community on god!” Meek Mill penned in the caption. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CnVNHMCJLSp/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Meek Mill was among 369 individuals who received a pardon in Pennsylvania this week. Gov. Wolf has issued more pardons than any other governor in Philadelphia history – 2,540 pardons since taking office in 2015. 

The Philly native has been a central player in the fight for criminal justice reform since his release from prison in 2018. He was sentenced to 2-4 years imprisonment in 2017 over violating his probation for a 2008 drug and gun conviction, sparking public outcry and nationwide protests. 

He was later freed after the Supreme Court overruled Judge Genece Brinkley’s ruling to imprison Meek for violating his probation.  

Meek’s lawyers accused Judge Genece Brinkley of having a vendetta against Meek and pointed to a crooked cops’ fabricated testimony during the rapper’s original trial. The Supreme Court agreed with his defense attorneys’ arguments, and Meek Mill was subsequently released on Apr. 24, 2018.  

“I feel good things coming to me!!!!!” Meek Mill tweeted on Thursday. He later added, “I got pardoned today …, I’m taking things really far from being a trench baby!”  

Earlier this week, Meek Mill, Michael Rubin, and Kevin Hart announced a $7 million donation to educational causes in Philly. As reported by AllHipHop.com, Meek was involved in a series of philanthropic contributions with the REFORM alliance during December.  

252 Lico Drops Continues To Break Through Noise With Fire Single “ENVY”

By: Staff WriterCategory: Music News

252Lico is a talented rap artist who has gained a significant following with his latest single, “Envy” The track showcases 252Lico’s ability to captivate listeners with his lyrics and dynamic delivery, making him a standout in the music industry.

In addition to “Envy,” 252Lico has also released two other singles, “Hittas” and “Murda,” which demonstrate his versatility as a musician. These tracks showcase 252Lico’s storytelling skills, using his lyrics to convey personal experiences and observations. One thing that sets 252Lico apart from other artists is his ability to connect with listeners through his music. His songs are relatable and offer a glimpse into his life and the world around him, making his music both personal and universal.

With over 1.8 million views on YouTube, it’s clear that 252Lico is making waves in the music industry. As he continues to release new music and grow his following, 252Lico will likely become even more successful in the coming years.

Video Shows Cousin Of Black Lives Matter Co-Founder Repeatedly Tased By LAPD Before His Death 

By: London JennnCategory: News

Black Lives Matter co-founder Patrisse Cullors says the police killing of her cousin, who she says died “trying to protect himself,” could have been prevented.  

31-year-old high school teacher and father Keenan Anderson died begging for help while being Tased and held down by multiple officers after flagging down cops following a traffic accident earlier this month.  

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Patrisse Cullors (@osopepatrisse)

Distressing LAPD body cam footage from the incident released on Wednesday (Jan. 11) shows the BLM co-founder’s cousin being Tased multiple times just hours before he was pronounced dead. One officer Tased him for roughly 30 seconds, all while another cop had his elbow on Anderson’s neck. He is then Tased again for another five seconds.  

“They’re trying to kill me,” he said at one point as multiple officers held him down. “They’re trying to George Floyd me.”  

“My cousin was asking for help, and he didn’t receive it. He was killed,” Patrisse Cullors told The Guardian. “Nobody deserves to die in fear, panicking and scared for their life. My cousin was scared for his life. He spent the last 10 years witnessing a movement challenging the killing of Black people. He knew what was at stake and he was trying to protect himself. Nobody was willing to protect him.” 

LA Mayor Calls For “Urgent Change”

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass called for “urgent change,” confirming “full investigations are underway.”  

“I have grave concerns about the deeply disturbing tapes that were released today,” she said in a statement. She promised a “transparent” investigation, adding, “the officers involved must be placed on immediate leave.  

“We must reduce the use of force overall, and I have absolutely no tolerance for excessive force,” Mayor Bass called for a reduction in “the use of force overall,” stating, “I have absolutely no tolerance for excessive force.”  

“I am deeply troubled that mental health experts were not called in,” she added. “Even when there was a documented history of past mental health crisis.”  

The Guardian reports he was taken to hospital once paramedics arrived. According to the LAPD, he went into cardiac arrest four and a half hours later and died. 

Patrisse Cullors questioned the need for armed police to show up to a collision. 

“It was a traffic accident. Instead of treating him like a potential criminal, police should have called the ambulance,” Cullors said. 

“If there was a policy in which traffic stops were met with unarmed professionals who come to the scene to help with whatever situation has happened, that would have prevented my cousin’s death. And that would have prevented so many other deaths.” 

The LAPD chief, Michel Moore, said that Anderson’s behavior was “erratic” and he suffered a “medical emergency.” He confirmed the Taser was “activated” against Anderson 10 times but was not “effective” every time.  

“It’s unclear what role the physical struggle with the officers and the use of the Taser played in his unfortunate death,’ he added. A formal cause of death has not been determined. 

Rihanna Smoulders In Lace Bodysuit For Valentine’s Day Savage X Fenty Campaign  

By: London JennnCategory: News

Rihanna is gearing up for the season of love, sharing a steamy new visual for her Savage X Fenty Valentine’s Day collection, featuring the nine-time Grammy Award winner.  

The ad begins with a glass love heart shattering into fragments, perhaps representative of the hearts Rihanna might break with the steamy visual. The reported youngest self-made billionaire in the United States donned a lace bodysuit with cut-out panels across the bust forming a heart shape.  

The stunning songstress flaunted every inch of her curves in the new campaign. “P#### yo roses ♥️,” Rhianna penned in the caption. Check out the video below.  

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by badgalriri (@badgalriri)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SAVAGE X FENTY BY RIHANNA (@savagexfenty)

While fans are not so patiently waiting for the follow-up to 2016’s Anti, Rihanna is making bank with her ventures outside of music. According to Forbes, she owns 30% of Savage X Fenty, which has an estimated value of $3 billion. In addition, her reign in the beauty industry continues. She owns 50% of Fenty Beauty, with the other half owned by LVMH. The brand is valued at $2.8 billion. 

Valentine’s Day isn’t the only thing Rihanna has to look forward to next month. Earlier this week, Rihanna launched a Savage X Fenty Game Day collection ahead of her upcoming Super Bowl Halftime Show. 

The brand launched the merch at the weekend with a joke about the main event in the football calendar happening during a RiRi concert. 

“A @badgalriri concert during a football game? Say less. #SavageXGameDay,” read the post.  

However, it may be too late to grab anything from the limited-edition 17-piece collection. According to frustrated fans online, all the new Game Day merch is sold out.  

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by SAVAGE X FENTY BY RIHANNA (@savagexfenty)

Tupac Docuseries Director Hypes Unreleased Audio & Video For Superfans

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Director Allen Hughes said his Tupac Shakur documentary series Dear Mama will feature material the late rapper’s diehard fans haven’t seen or heard.

Hughes spoke about Dear Mama at FX’s Television Critics Association press tour on Thursday (January 12). The filmmaker, who co-directed Dead Presidents and Menace II Society, revealed his five-part documentary series includes exclusive audio and footage.

“Wherever possible, we tried to find archival footage that hadn’t been seen so there’s a lot that we have in the five parts,” Hughes said, per Deadline. “There’s also audio that’s never been heard. And not just some of his acapellas and vocals. There is a lot of stuff of Tupac from his baby years that had never been seen.”

He continued, “For Tupac superfans, I believe that two of the most important things in the project is the never seen before. But most importantly, you get to understand why he made certain decisions.”

FX announced the first two episodes of Dear Mama will premiere on April 21. The rest of the Tupac documentary series will be released on a weekly basis. Viewers can stream the episodes on Hulu a day after the FX broadcast.

Check out a teaser for Dear Mama below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgvbS01u3dA

‘Drink Champs’ Podcast Lands Deal With Major Label’s In-House Network

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN’s show Drink Champs joined Warner Music Group’s in-house podcast network Interval Presents.

Warner Music Group’s podcast network announced the deal on Thursday (January 12). Interval Presents obtained the licensing rights to the audio version of Drink Champs on all major podcast platforms.

“We were impressed with the network’s dedication to the culture and the support we’ve received to expand our show to reach new heights allowing us to further pioneer and break barriers in the space!” DJ EFN said in a press release.

N.O.R.E. added, “I’m feeling good about partnering with Interval Presents and joining the all-star team they’ve got. We’re ready to take things to the next level for us and the culture at large! Let’s go!”

UTA, which represents Drink Champs, negotiated the deal. Allan Coye, the general manager of Interval Presents, said the collaboration will focus on “further amplifying” the podcast.

Drink Champs began in 2015. Diddy’s REVOLT network started televising the podcast in 2016.

N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN haven’t released a new episode of Drink Champs since December. The podcast is scheduled to return on January 27.

Warner Music Group launched Interval Presents in 2022. The podcast network has projects in the works with actress Lupita Nyong’o and singer Jason Derulo.

EXCLUSIVE: Ye Could Lose Millions For Hiding From Lawsuit Claiming He Stole KRS-One’s Song

By: Justin IveyCategory: Exclusives

Kanye West’s sampling of a classic KRS-One song may cost him after he ignored the copyright owner’s lawsuit.

According to court documents obtained by AllHipHop, Phase One Network asked for an entry of default in its civil case against Ye on Thursday (January 11). The company sued Kanye West for using an uncleared sample of Boogie Down Productions’ “South Bronx” on the 2021 track “Life of the Party.”

Phase One, which owns much of the rights to Boogie Down Productions’ “South Bronx,” filed its lawsuit in November 2022. Ye’s label G.O.O.D. Music was served in December 2022 but never responded to the complaint.

“[G.O.O.D.] has failed to answer or otherwise respond to the complaint, which was properly served on [G.O.O.D.] by delivering a true copy of the complaint and summons to Robin-Hutt Banks of the Corporation Trust Company, the registered agent of [G.O.O.D.], on December 9, 2022, and proof was therefore filed on December 15, 2022,” Phase One’s attorney Sarah Matz wrote.

Ye’s “Life of the Party” appeared on the deluxe edition of Donda, which dropped in November 2021. The song was omitted from the original version of Donda released in August 2021.

Kanye West’s clearance agent allegedly sent a formal licensing request to Phase One for the “South Bronx” sample in July 2021. The two sides didn’t reach a deal.

“On November 10, 2021, with the parties still not having come to an agreement regarding a license to use South Bronx in the infringing track, the West Parties, through their clearance agent Mr. Weissman, requested that [Phase One] forward a license agreement for South Bronx, including their preferred terms,” Phase One claimed. “On November 16, 2021, the West Parties, through their clearance agent Mr. Weissman, formally retracted the July 15, 2021 license request to use South Bronx.”

Phase One obtained the rights to Boogie Down Productions’ “South Bronx” through a series of legal transfers. KRS-One is not a plaintiff in the lawsuit against Ye.

Kanye West was sued for copyright infringement. Phase One is seeking an injunction and damages.

Young Thug Trial: Judge Forces Potential Juror To Write 30-Page Essay

By: Justin IveyCategory: News

Judge Ural Glanville handed out a unique punishment to a woman who didn’t return for jury selection in the Young Thug trial.

According to multiple reports, Judge Glanville ordered the potential juror to write a 30-page essay about the importance of jury duty on Thursday (January 12). The judge didn’t hold the woman in contempt of court. She faced up to 20 days in jail and a $1,000 fine if she was charged with contempt.

The woman was excused from jury duty in the Young Thug trial, but her essay assignment came with strict guidelines. Judge Glanville demanded the essay be written in APA style with 10 primary sources and 10 secondary sources.

Judge Glanville said the court will check the essay for plagiarism. The woman was given three weeks to complete the essay. She must return to court on February 13.

The woman was one of the dozens of potential jurors excused from duty in the Young Thug trial. Jury selection is still underway for a trial that’s expected to last six to nine months.

Young Thug and 13 co-defendants will be tried in the YSL RICO case. Prosecutors claim YSL is a criminal street gang responsible for multiple offenses, including murder.

EXCLUSIVE: Ruthless Records’ Producer Laylaw, Who Worked With N.W.A, Above The Law & More, Has Died

By: Kyle EusticeCategory: Exclusives

Ruthless Records producer Larry Goodman, better known as Laylaw, has died. Compton’s Most Wanted rapper Tha Chill confirmed the news on Thursday (January 12) with an Instagram post that read simply: “R.I.P. @laylaw_og_nwa_gone miss you BIG BRO. #NWA #ABOVETHELAW.”

Snoop Dogg was among the first to hop in the comments, writing, “Damn.” Many of Laylaw’s West Coast peers chimed in as well, including Rifleman and Uncle Jamm’s Army.

“I don’t want to be the first to speak on his personal business, but I will say he had some complications he was dealing with and it got the best of him,” Tha Chill tells AllHipHop. He was a great friend of 30 years plus, and he will be missed.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vernon Johnson (@thachillcmw)

Tha Chill follow-up with a second Instagram photo featuring Eazy-E, KMG, Laylaw and several others. He wrote in the caption: “KMG R.I.P. EAZY E R.I.P. LAY LAW R.I.P. MAN MY FOLKS IS DIEN LEFT AND RIGHT TELLING A PERSON THAT YOU LOVE YHEM ANIT EVEN GOOD ENOUGH THESE DAYS.

“ALL I CAN SAY IS, IT GOTTA BE BETTER UP THERE THEN IT IS DOWN HERE. Rest in peace to my homies.” Tha Chill’s photo caught the attention of Eazy-E’s son, Lil Eazy-E, who left a series of prayer emojis.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Vernon Johnson (@thachillcmw)

Eerily enough, Laylaw’s last Instagram post, dated December 13, 2022, was for a friend’s funeral. Now, people are flocking to the post to send their condolences.

Laylaw began his career as a solo artist. In the mid-80s, he released two electro singles on his own label, Rolex Records: the Dr. Dre-produced “Monster Rapping” (1985) and “What’s Your Name” (1986). Goodman ultimately followed Dr. Dre to Ruthless, where he worked as a producer with Above The Law, N.W.A and more. In 1993, Goodman collaborated with 2Pac on the album Strictly 4 My N.I.G.G.A.Z. and later produced the remix of “California Love” (without credit). AllHipHop sends its condolences to his loved ones.

50 Cent Says Depression Is A ‘Luxury’ He Can’t Afford

By: Kershaw St. JawnsonCategory: News

Queens rapper and all-around hustler says he can’t afford to be depressed. He contends that mental health issue is a “luxury.”

In an interview with Los Angeles rap vet and radio icon Big Boy, the 47-year-old rapper said, “I think depression is a luxury. Where I’m from, you can’t afford to be depressed.”

While promoting his new BMF show and some of his other ventures, the “In the Club” chart-topper continued, “You gotta pay the bills, right? So, you gotta go to work,” he said. “You gotta get up, gotta go do what you gotta do. You got people right now that’s at work that don’t feel like being there. But they got responsibilities.”

“When these guys get in a slump and they just decide they’re not gonna do anything — I’m like, ‘Where they do that at?’ ” he said. “I think the things you go through make you who you are.”

He also talked about everything from Kanye West to Elon Musk buying Twitter and then saying he actually has to apologize to Megan the Stallion for saying Tory Lanez didn’t shoot her.

One thing that hit home was talking about the Master P and Lil Romeo tiff online and comparing it to his relationship with his oldest son Marquise.

“Well, I think that their situation is different,” 50 said. “I think they may have some like a disagreement but they’ll be back to being Master P and Romeo we know.”

He further spoke about how Master P was one of the first people to put him on, calling him “prolific.”

“You see how Snoop has respect for Master P? He’s one of those guys,” he said before telling a story about how the No Limit soldier put him on tour for the first time.

“He was slick big. He came he gave me the money for eight shows, right? We did four of them. Then he said, ‘Oh man something happened we got time to take a break. We just come back and do the other four later. When I came back to do the other four, I had already sold 2,000,000!”

50 Cent said the OG knew he was going to be a huge star.