Erykah Badu has made her feelings about Blueface crystal clear. On Friday (June 2), the controversial rapper shared a clip of himself in a hot tub with several pregnant women for one of his latest videos.
He wrote in the caption, “I’m in n out bih life. I’m not Oscar proud.” Badu, who’s a practicing doula, evidently didn’t find it entertaining. She commented, “He’s trash. Universe do your thing.”
Blueface caught wind of Badu’s comment and replied, “W promo. Thank you universe.” But fans are telling Blueface to hold up. As one person wrote, “I would be horrified if I was blueface, outta all people that can say this thee Erykah Badu was the one to say it. Words are powerful.”
Others are convinced Badu just put a curse on Blueface and he’ll be seeing the repercussions soon enough.
“Erykah Badu posted a pic of Blueface & said ‘he’s trash, universe do yo thing.’ this n-gga bouta go threw it watch what I tell you,” one person wrote, while another said, “Erykah Badu called out Blueface and she don’t speak on s###. I’m waiting on him to say something stupid so she can finish him.”
Other comments include, “Erykah Badu is a real one calling blueface out. Cause he is definitely trash. Welp we know Erykah isn’t to be played with” and “Erykah Badu definitely is a clairvoyant cuz Divine Feminine gonna get Blueface ass.”
Blueface’s mother hopped on social media to defend her son, writing, “Girl you was just calling Tyrone and paying his cousins and homeboys way don’t and ain’t nobody said nothing to you.”
Erykah Badu called out Blueface and she don’t speak on s###. I’m waiting on him to say something stupid so she can finish him. pic.twitter.com/eYKgRMnOm9
Kanye West, the renowned rapper and producer, experienced considerable transformations throughout his marriage to Kim Kardashian, leading to a shift in their relationship dynamics and, ultimately, their divorce.
In an episode of ‘The Kardashians,” Kim Kardashian recounted the challenging aspects of her marriage to Kanye West, noting how his public demeanor had changed drastically over the years.
The controversies that stemmed from Kanye’s public outbursts placed her in a difficult position as she grappled with the need to protect their four children – North, Saint, Chicago, and Psalm – from the public eye.
The time she spent rectifying the aftermath of these controversies was taxing, causing her to feel “stuck” with this situation due to their shared responsibilities as parents.
Kanye’s transformation, according to Kim, was significant enough that it felt like witnessing a loved one turn into a completely different person.
“It’s the hardest feeling to watch someone you really loved, and you have a family with just be so different than who you knew.”
Kanye, known for his hit “Flashing Lights,” stirred controversy with his online attacks on Kim and her family and his making of antisemitic comments, which garnered intense backlash.
Throughout their marital issues, Kim emphasized the importance of shielding their children from the controversies surrounding their father.
She reiterated her commitment to this protective stance despite the complexities of their situation.
“I just still feel the need to not talk about it and protect it for my kids,” Kim explained. “I always will feel that way. But God, if people knew. I just would never do that to my kids. But it’s really crazy.”
Regarding Kanye’s perspective on their relationship, it’s clear that he also experienced significant changes during their marriage.
A series of public controversies, including his 2020 presidential campaign announcement and controversial remarks at the same event, served as pivotal moments that highlighted his transformation.
Kim and Kanye wed in 2014, and after a period of discord marked by public controversies and personal challenges, their divorce was finalized in 2022.
Kanye West has since entered into a new marital bond with Australian architect Bianca Censori.
The couple met when Censori joined West’s Yeezy clothing brand as head of architecture in November 2020.
West and Censori have been spotted together around Los Angeles, with West even hinting at their romance in a song he released in December.
Rap legend Masta Ace has evolved into a playwright. The Juice Crew alumni has developed a play called The Falling Season, which made an informal debut this week in the form of a reading. It all happened in front of about 150 fans, family and industry titans such as DJ Mister Cee, Datwon Thomas, Marco Polo and me—Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur—at Theatre Fiave at Theatre Row in Manhattan.
In conjunction with theater collective Rhymes Over Beats, Ace is currently refining the already captivating rendition of the Hip-Hop play. This production musical draws inspiration from three of Masta Ace’s most notable albums: Disposable Arts, A Long Hot Summer and The Falling Season. It also stars rapper NEMS, battle rapper Duchess, Calvin Thompson, Angella Katherine, Leschea and Jeremiah Packer as the lead, “Avis.”
The Falling Season chronicles the arduous journey of a young man (Avis) striving to shape his desired identity amidst the challenges prevalent in his Brooklyn neighborhood, all while navigating through a series of tumultuous relationships. Set in the summer of 1988, just before his final year of high school, Avis aspires to become the first member of his family to attend college—Morehouse. However, unforeseen circumstances suddenly threaten to undermine all his hopes and dreams for a better future.
The musical transitions between four primary settings that symbolize distinct aspects of Avis’s life: a classroom, bodega, his grandma’s living room and, of course, the stoop. Through Avis’s perspective, we encounter the diverse array of individuals inhabiting the neighborhood—both virtuous (good influences) and malevolent (street)—who inadvertently influence Avis’s behavior, forcing him to adopt a persona he vehemently rejects. Amidst a backdrop of potential romances, complicated friendships and the allure of risks and rewards, Avis finds himself in a place where everything can be lost in a New York minute.
Avis’s unwavering and loyal companion is his best friend, FATS (played by NEMS), a high school dropout who recognizes and safeguards Avis’s potential. Additionally, there’s June, a young woman whose future is as bright as Avis’s. The juxtaposition between Avis’s determination to remain focused on his future and his struggle against the adverse effects of his neighborhood permeates the entire musical. No character is entirely good or evil. Take, for instance, Rock and Gunna, the dreaded drug dealer and his loyal henchman that give Nino and G-Money vibes (a good thing). On stage, the pair are a lethal combination, but there is so much more to them than their intimidating facade. Without giving away too much, Duchess as the temptress “Lisa” gout a rousing applause from the audience on numerous occasions. For Avis, this long, scorching summer blurs the boundaries between the classroom and the streets.
Masta Ace in the music world is renowned for his exceptional lyricism and masterful storytelling. Having written 11 critically acclaimed studio albums, Ace and Rhymes Over Beats adapt his ability to seamlessly weave together compelling narratives and bring them to the stage. Previously, he said: “I’m so excited about this new chapter in my writing career. And I’m really just appreciative of a company like Rhymes Over Beats that’s giving people like myself—other artists, writers, talent—the opportunity to realize a dream, realize something that they maybe never thought they’d be able to do. I’m working with Cate right now on what will be my first stage play. This is an exciting time—I’m looking forward to seeing what this turns into.”
Rhymes Over Beats comprises a collective of Hip-Hop and theater artists who seeks to highlight Hip-Hop complex, seldom shown depth. With deep passion, the organization understands the true breadth of Hip-Hop greatness. Founded in 2015 by Patrick Blake, Cate Cammarata and Donna Hart, the collective includes MCs, DJs, producers, actors, playwrights, directors and theater producers from across the United States. Inspired by the successful impact of Hamilton, Rhymes Over Beats strives to bridge the gap between popular music and musical theater, fostering a new generation of theater enthusiasts.
Stay tuned.
Here are some images taken from this sneak peak of a future classic, The Falling Season.
Dedicated to persevering in the battle we call life Alabama-bred rapper Salute delivers his new Summer ready single “25” with the assist from Baton Rouge legend Boosie Badazz.
Emerging from the military a forever-changed man after his service in Operation Iraqi Freedom Special Ops., Salute gives a poignant take on life in the streets as he gives fans an uncensored ode to the ups and downs of street life. The song bravely focuses on maintaining the drive to get better each day, despite the challenges and obstacles individuals face in destitute circumstances.
“I know 25 people that coulda went to the league, I know 25 people that’ll get you anything you need. So that’s kinda like the attitude of people where I’m from. They probably didn’t get all the things wanted to in their life, but they still made the best out of anything that was there, that’s kinda like what I represent.”
Because of his message of appreciation for what you have and his undying passion for the craft, Salute is quickly making a name for himself across the South, earning his peer’s respect and feature records from Texas luminaries like Scarface, Devin the Dude, Slim Thug, and Bun B to name a few.
Inspiring generations of listeners with storytelling skills that impact the fans from a mental and physical standpoint, Salute’s collaboration with Boosie is a story for the streets that will resonate no matter your background and motivations in life. Fans will find that this music is perfect for gym workout and any other mental motivation needed.
Heavily influenced by Southern street legends, Salute grew up listening to the sounds of UGK (Pimp C and Bun B) Outkast, 8Ball & MJG, and others. Now he is working with some of the same artists he looked up to as a youth in Alabama trying to find his way.
“Being from Birmingham, Alabama, you know we get a big influence from southern pioneers like Pimp C and Bun B, Outkast, 8Ball, and MJG. One of my biggest inspirations was definitely Ice Cube too, because he was able to bring it from the music to the film world. They were kind of some of my inspirations coming from Alabama as far as seeing others do it. They showed me a path to do this music thing, and I’m following in their footsteps.”
Blessed with an uncanny ability to flip his words into storytelling masterpieces, Salute acknowledges that he draws inspiration from those around him and the experiences he’s been through.
“I don’t write, it’s kinda like if I hear a beat, it may be two bars, it may be four bars, but it comes from whatever I’m reading, current events or whatever I’m, watching at that time. You know, a lot of my music comes from right then in the moment. So at that time I recorded 25, I was doing a lot of hanging out with people that talk about what they could have done and you know what they doing now.”
Memphis, Tennessee-bred rapper Moneybagg Yo returned this week with his Hard To Love mixtape. The project hosts the “Where Ya Bih @” single.
Moneybagg Yo dropped the official “Where Ya Bih @” music video on the same day Hard To Love arrived on DSPs. The whipalo-directed visual pays homage to the 2005 movie Hustle & Flow.
Academy Award-nominated actor Terrence Howard played DJay in the Hustle & Flow motion picture. The film was also set in Memphis. Bagg takes on a DJ-inspired character in his latest video.
Terrence Howard earned an Oscar nod for his performance in Hustle & Flow. Director Craig Brewer’s drama won the Academy Award for Best Original Song (Three 6 Mafia’s “It’s Hard out Here for a Pimp”).
Hard to Love includes appearances by Future, Fridayy, TB Fatt, Fat Wizza, Lil Durk, and fellow Collective Music Group recording artist GloRilla. “On Wat U On” with Glo charted at No. 56 on the Hot 100.
“This tape, I got real personal! Touched on pain, vulnerability, and substance abuse,” wrote MoneyBagg Yo on Instagram. He added, “This mixtape is The SINGLE to my upcoming album! Trust me, this s### gone set the summer on fye🔥.”
Moneybagg Yo released Hard to Love two years after his A Gangsta’s Pain album. That CMG-backed studio LP debuted atop the Billboard 200 chart with 110,000 first-week album-equivalent units.
In addition, Moneybagg Yo appeared on CMG’s Gangsta Art compilation which came out in 2022. He also collaborated with other rap acts like Offset, YG, 2 Chainz, and DaBaby over the last two years.
Boosie Badazz engaged in a war of words with Ralo on Friday (June 2).
The two traded shots on social media after Boosie accused Ralo of snitching in a Breakfast Club interview. Ralo responded to the allegations in a series of Twitter posts.
“These n##### be acting like some real b######, yawl salon talking ass n#####,” Ralo wrote. “Gossiping grandma, drunk auntie, b#### group chat ass n#####. I hate yawl f### n#####…”
He added, “Ole p#### ass n##### always running they mouth, don’t even be knowing what the f### they be talking about. Idgaf if you don’t f### wit me n####. I was straight waaaaay before I even met yo lame ass…”
The interview dude didn’t even ask him nothing about me, that brother took it upon himself to speak on me. I would’ve never did no s### like that to him… #NEVERhttps://t.co/9zXtmoDiaM
Boosie fired back at Ralo on Twitter. The Baton Rouge native claimed Ralo had a guilty conscience.
“@ralofamgoon U BEING STRAIGHT WITH MONEY BEFORE U MET ME HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH WHAT U HAVE DONE‼️” he wrote. “EVERY REAL STREET N#### KNOW WHATS UP. LIKE I TOLD U N OUR TEXT‼️ U CAN RUN THAT S### ON SOMEONE ELSE LOL N U The ONE A LAME ASS N#### COOPERATING WHEN ALL YO N##### BEING SOLID‼️WHAT U SORRY FOR ? uletusdownnitshurtingyouinside.”
Ralo, who’s serving an eight-year prison sentence, denied snitching. He blasted Boosie for spreading gossip.
“YOU ALWAYS GOING ON THE INTERNET AND INTERVIEWS GOSSIPING ABOUT PEOPLE THAT S### LAME,” Ralo wrote. “YOU DONT KNOW S### ABOUT ME RAPPING ASS N####. IF I TOLD I WOULD BE COCKY ENOUGH TO SAY I DID AND EVERY B#### STILL WOULDVE SUCKED MY DICK. I AINT TRYING TO SAVE FACE FOR NONE OF YOU MFS. RALO AINT TOLD ON NOBODY…”
YOU ALWAYS GOING ON THE INTERNET AND INTERVIEWS GOSSIPING ABOUT PEOPLE THAT S### LAME. YOU DONT KNOW S### ABOUT ME RAPPING ASS N####. IF I TOLD I WOULD BE COCKY ENOUGH TO SAY I DID AND EVERY B#### STILL WOULDVE SUCKED MY DICK. I AINT TRYING TO SAVE FACE FOR NONE OF YOU MFS. RALO… https://t.co/95gVuvEE2k
But Boosie insisted Ralo was a rat. The outspoken rapper invoked the name of the late Trouble a.k.a. Skoob in another tweet.
“U know what you did n#### n it’s eating you up inside,” he wrote. “SMH ITS NEVER GO LEAVE U N####‼️THE REAL KNOW u A RAT. ITS OFFICIAL‼️ TAKE YO LICK N TELL THE REAL N##### YOU SORRY LIKE YOU TOLD YOUR CO DEFENDANT you was SORRY‼️ WHAT U THINK SKOOB A SAY BOUT WHAT U DID N####? Ask yourself that question.”
Ralo scoffed at the snitching allegations, suggesting he’d already be out of prison if the claims were. He also challenged Boosie to a fight.
“It’s eating me up cuz I did all these years i prison and lame as n##### like u calling a solid n#### ah rat,” he wrote. “P#### ass n#### if I would’ve told ‘I WOULD BE OUT’ with my daughter. I could’ve made it to the father and daughter dances. I lost all that s### staying solid to this p#### ass code. Why the f### u putting Trouble and the world in our business hoe ass n####??? Set the welcome home Ralo fight up ima beat yo ass #OnGod.”
It’s eating me up cuz I did all these years i prison and lame as n##### like u calling a solid n#### ah rat. P#### ass n#### if I would’ve told “I WOULD BE OUT” with my daughter. I could’ve made it to the father and daughter dances. I lost all that s### staying solid to this… https://t.co/48hwcSEADq
Ralo mocked Boosie in several other posts. The incarcerated artist criticized his former friend for leaving Baton Rouge and moving to Atlanta.
“That p#### ass n#### left his whole city broke and f##### up, tell him go buy back his block and help his people the way I did,” Ralo wrote. “He ran his scared ass from Louisiana wit the killers to get some peace. I don’t respect n##### like that anyway. REAL KINGS MAKE THERE THRONES AT HOME AND SIT ON THEM… ‘LIKE I DID.’”
Ralo concluded his rant by saying he preferred the “old Boosie” not the “new hoe ass Boosie.”
We like the old BOOSIE, don’t nobody listen to this new “HOE ASS BOOSIE”
Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre postponed their Doggystyle 30th anniversary concerts, which were originally scheduled for June 27 and 28.
The West Coast legends rescheduled their orchestra-backed concerts in solidarity with the WGA writers’ strike. Snoop Dogg announced the delay via social media on Friday (June 2).
“DOGGYSTYLE 30th ANNIVERSARY POSTPONEMENT,” he wrote. “Due to the ongoing WGA strike and the DGA and SAG/AFTRA negotiations, we have decided to postpone the shows scheduled for June 27 and June 28 at the Hollywood Bowl. We stand in solidarity with the unions and are hopeful that the AMPTP will negotiate fair deals as soon as possible and everybody can get back to work. New dates are now October 20 and 21, 2023.”
The concerts will be held at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre will team up with conductor Derrick Hodge and the ReCollective Orchestra to perform special renditions of Doggystyle cuts.
Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre also plan to release a new album titled Missionary later this year. Smitty, one of Dr. Dre’s collaborators, told AllHipHop the producer is thrilled to be working on the project.
“I ain’t seen Dre this excited since The Chronic,” Smitty said. “He’s really excited about what we’re doing.”
Tickets for the Doggystyle concerts are on sale here. Previously purchased tickets for shows in June will be honored in October.
Falling in love with music at a young age, Ar’Mon started taking music serious in 2016, by uploading covers of songs by some of his favorite artists, such as Usher and Drake. As part of the duo, Ar’Mon & Trey went on to sign a deal with Warner Bros. Records, eventually dropping his debut EP titled Long Story Short.
Now, Ar’Mon is excited as ever to be unveiling his highly-anticipated new song and visual for “Assignment.” This is an R&B anthem for the grown and sexy, for both day one fans and new fans alike. With summertime coming around, we need that perfect soundtrack for boo thang!
AllHipHop spoke with Ar’mon Warren to discuss the new release, being a solo artist, and more!
AllHipHop: What inspired “Assignment”?
Ar’Mon: “Assignment” was inspired from just a place of me and my alter ego. I’m a humble person so I feel if I do talk my s###, it’ll be in my music. I think this song is Ar’Money. [laughs] My other songs are armon but I feel when I’m in this type of bag this Armoney.
AllHipHop: What was your creative vision with the visual?
Ar’Mon: My creative vision with the music video was just to be sexy, grown. I feel the song, the beat, and the lyrics go hand to hand. I needed the video to give grown and sexy.
AllHipHop: What do you want fans to take away from the song/visual?
Ar’Mon: Just understanding the difference between Ar’Money and Ar’Mon. I think the supporters are going to be a little surprised at some lyrics, but as I said this is grown and sexy.
AllHipHop: How has your sound evolved since you first started as part of a duo?
Ar’Mon: I feel my sound has evolved tremendously, just sonically. I’ve always felt comfortable in the studio, but of course doing it alone now is a little different. My brother would write songs and bring it to the group and vice versa, so working alone is fine. I feel my sound is being birthed right now as we speak and I can see and feel it forreal.
AllHipHop: Detroit has been having a huge wave when it comes to the rap game. How does it feel to be making R&B coming out of the city?
Ar’Mon: Making it out of Detroit as an R&B artist was tough, but fun. I feel our city is full of pretty women and filled with rappers. So when the girls heard me sing, it’ll give me an edge a little. Singing in the city growing up was fun, but it was most definitely out of the norm to sing.
AllHipHop: Top 5 artists in rotation?
Ar’Mon: Micheal Jackson, Jay Z, Beyoncé, Drake, Tupac.
AllHipHop: What inspires you the most?
Ar’Mon: What inspires me the most would have to be of course my daughter Legacy. Just her name has self-inspired me to go after and understand what I’m building, and that’s a legacy so my baby girl inspires me. Also seeing my inspiration in others inspire me to keep doing what I’m doing. And always keep the love for whatever I’m doing, rather it’s a vlog, showing my music process, or something as big as a show.
AllHipHop: What are the pros and cons of going solo?
Ar’Mon: There’s pros and cons everyday. [laughs] Even life, the pro is we get to be here and chase a dream. Some succeed and some don’t, but the con is we ain’t here forever. With music and being solo, of course the cons is you do what you want. It’s your vision. Literally, but the cons for me is the chemistry I had with my brother writing music. Our studio session was always fun, but serious. Now, I have to be serious because when I look to my left or right, it’s just me. So I can’t crack a joke or get off topic for 20 to 30 minutes because it’s just me.
AllHipHop: What’s one thing fans may not know about you?
Ar’Mon: One thing fans may not know about me is, my shoulder was broken at birth and I have two different ears.
AllHipHop: What can we expect next?
Ar’Mon: You all can expect more music, tons of music tons of visuals and just a elevation in the music
Authorities claimed a Fulton County deputy conspired to smuggle contraband for Christian Eppinger, one of Young Thug’s co-defendants in the YSL RICO case.
According to WSB-TV, deputy Akeiba Stanley was arrested for trying to bring contraband to Eppinger in jail. She was charged with violation of oath of office, reckless conduct, conspiracy to commit a felony and hindering apprehension or punishment of a criminal on Friday (June 2).
Authorities said Stanley attempted to sneak items from Eppinger’s relative into jail. Young Thug’s co-defendant allegedly used an illegal cellphone to communicate with Stanley.
Stanley was accused of visiting Eppinger in his jail cell. The two also plotted their smuggling efforts on Instagram.
Earlier this week, Fulton County deputies seized the laptop of Eppinger’s lawyer Eric Johnson. A warrant said Johnson used the laptop to communicate with YSL members who aren’t in custody.
Young Thug, Eppinger and their co-defendants await trial in the YSL RICO case. A jury still hasn’t been seated in the slow-moving selection process.
Jury selection began in January. The process could last through the summer.
Young Thug was one of 28 defendants named in the original RICO indictment against YSL members. He is one of nine remaining defendants facing trial in the highly-publicized case.
On the golf course, Rapper Belly talks with Ebro Darden about the process of making ‘Mumble Rap 2,’ the first album of his final three and 12th mixtape. He tells Apple Music how taking up golf has improved both his mental health and rapping ability, working with Rick Ross, linking with Gucci Mane and what makes him great, how he measures success, how he measures success, getting Gil Scott-Heron on the project, retirement, immigration struggles, his Palestinian heritage, and more.
Belly Tells Apple Music How Taking Up Golf Improved Both His Mental Health and His Rapping Ability…
I didn’t know I needed it until I started golfing. Just having those two, three hours in the morning and by the time I’m done, everyone else is getting to the studio and getting to work. So it’s perfect for me. I could use that. I get out whatever aggression and anger that this place brings out of me. Because it is calming, but at the same time it’s frustrating. And then I get to the studio and I let it all out. So it’s perfect.
Belly Tells Apple Music About Working with Rick Ross…
Legendary. Working with Rosey for me was awesome. Making a song with him, that was the first time. Early on, I would get in debates with people about how nice Rosey’s pen was. I’ve always been such a big fan of what he does lyrically and just his whole aura and demeanor. Honestly, when we got on set, it was just jokes, man. He’s one of the funniest human beings alive. And he’s accidentally funny too. I think he knows, right…Big inspiration for me, for sure.
Belly Tells Apple Music About Linking with Gucci Mane and What Makes Him Great…
I mean, me and Gucci worked together before, probably more than a decade ago. And then now it was just… No, I tell you this all the time. If I hear somebody on a record, I can’t do the second verse. It f***s me up. Because even if I write it, I’m writing it in their cadence and s**t. So I kept hearing Gucci on that one and we were like, “Yo, let’s just reach out. See what he says.” He was like, “Whai, come on, send that through, bro.” He sent that s**t back in two minutes. I was like, “G###### bro.” And it was a fire Gucci verse. Same thing. I’ve been a fan of Gucci for so long. He’s got like 150 projects. No one works harder than Gucci in the world. Super respect for him.
Belly Tells Apple Music How He Measures Success…
That’s a bigger accomplishment for me than sales or numbers or any of that. Having the respect of people that I respect and look up to people that inspired me, circle them back and being like, “Yo, you’re dope.”
Belly Tells Apple Music How He Was Able To Get The Late Gil Scott-Heron on the Project…
We had put Gil Scott-Heron there as a placeholder until I figured out the hooks. I just love his words. His poetic approach to s**t is incredible to me. Even when he just speaks, it’s poetic. So it was just a placeholder in there, kind of just to inspire me to come up with something. And then we were like, “Yo, this sounds perfect for this.” His estate or his people, whoever was graceful enough to let us use it and actually cleared it for us to use it on the album.
Belly Tells Apple Music Why He Chose Hit-Boy To Executive Produce The Project…
A lot of times it’s hard to get that s**t that makes you want to rap. And I think Hit-Boy, he really be inspiring me with the s**t he plays, man. He hits that play button and it’s on. It was like a no-brainer for me. Like you said earlier, he was the perfect choice to go with. There was some stuff he had already that was perfect. There was other joints that, he would play me a sample or a top line and then we would build it out on the spot. So it was dope. It was the type of creative process, it’s like a dream process for a rapper, you know what I mean?
Belly Tells Apple Music Why He Announced That ‘Mumble Rap 2’ Would Be The First of His Final Three Albums…
Once you see somebody play golf, their retirement is inevitable, at that point. It’s coming. This will inspire you to retire. And really, for me, just creatively, I think it’s time for me to start branching out into other things. I want to feel like it’s ready. Every time I really feel like, okay, this is strong enough to be one of the last two, it’s going to come out.
Belly Tells Apple Music About His Palestinian Heritage…
I’m an actual Palestinian. If you come and wake up in my house and you see me, you’re going to be like, “Oh no, he Palestinian. He’s definitely.” All the traditions are still there for me. So it’s all going to leak out into my music naturally and be that.
Belly Reveals That When He Released His Album ‘Immigrant’, He Didn’t Have Proper Documentation to Be in the Country…
It’s actually funny because the last album I put out was called Immigrant. And then I lost my papers here. I didn’t have any papers. My Canadian Visa, I couldn’t go back because of the pandemic. It ran out. They didn’t go back on any of their rules. They were like, “No, you’ve got to be here.” I was like, “I’m not traveling in the pandemic. It’s not happening.” So I lost my access, really, to here. I was out here for I think two or three years working on my papers. So when I put out Immigrant, I had no papers here. And it was something I wasn’t trying to talk about because it was-It was legal s### going on, it was crazy, man. It really went to lawyers and all that kind of s### before I ended up with my green card and the right to kind of live here. You know what I’m saying? But before that, it was rough. So I got a line on “American Nightmare” where I say, “Put out an album called Immigrant. I’m in the country with no papers,” and that is the realest line. I want to say I got my papers now, but when I wrote that line it was true. So that’s why I want to bring it up. No cap in these raps.
Music festivals are peak Hip-Hop fun. The incredible sound, mesmerizing shows, star-studded lineups, electrifying energy and enthusiastic crowds make for an exhilarating experience. It’s no wonder that more than 32 million people attend music festivals each year, creating unforgettable memories and stories to cherish.
However, not everyone has a great time at these events. We’ve all heard the infamous music festival horror stories (hello, Fyre Festival) or just somebody getting too wasted. To ensure your next music festival adventure becomes a dream come true rather than a living nightmare, here’s an exclusive insider’s guide on how to navigate and survive music festivals.
Prioritize Comfortable Footwear
You’ve probably witnessed the long walks from the parking area to the venue in those viral videos. However, at events like Rolling Loud, you’ll spend hours on your feet without any seating options. Don’t focus on style when choosing shoes; instead, opt for comfort. Trust me, you’ll appreciate it the next morning.
Plan Your Stages in Advance
Some of these events, like AfroPunk, have several stages. You have to make some decisions. Deciding which artists to see can be challenging. It’s possible that two or even three of your favorites will perform simultaneously on different stages. To maximize your experience, my advice is to plan ahead. Oftentimes, they have apps that can help in this. Use the apps! They list the performers and their schedules. Many even include a planner feature to help you choose where you want to be at any given time.
Stay Hydrated
Whether you’re under the scorching Miami sun or experiencing a cool autumn in New York, two things remain constant: you will expend a lot of energy. Make sure to bring plenty of water with you. Liquor removes water from your system, by the way, so go easy. Hydration is key, so come prepared with ample water to keep yourself refreshed throughout the festival. Most times, like in the case with Rock The Bells, water stations are readily available.
Stay Until the End
Missing out on a performance you were eagerly anticipating can be disappointing. A friend of mine experienced this firsthand when Kanye West canceled his set, only for his replacement to receive a hostile reception (Kid Cudi of all people). Later, I discovered he made a surprise appearance on another stage. Stay until the end, even if it means dealing with the traffic and human wreckage. Hey, you can also leave early like when Playboi Cardi started his mess.
Bring Your Own Bud
While this is not the case at all festival, some people believe having weed with you is crucial at festivals like Rolling Loud. It is called “rolling” loud for a reason. You’ll find some available for purchase at the festival, but it’s often overpriced or of mediocre quality. I don’t smoke, but the homies say “bring your own supply discreetly.” As long as you’re careful, security tends to turn a blind eye. Just don’t try to be Snoop Dogg.
Here are the other 5 tips that will keep you enjoying the festival season…
Keep Track of Your Group: Festivals are known for unpredictable crowds, and cellphone reception is often unreliable. These factors can make it challenging to stay connected with your friends. Be vigilant about the people you come with, have a designated meetup spot if anyone gets lost and communicate regularly to ensure everyone stays together.
Bring an External Charger: In those five hours at Rolling Loud, your phone will inevitably run out of battery. From Instagram Stories to texting friends, your phone will be in high demand. Don’t find yourself stranded without power when trying to order a Lyft or locate your parked car. Instead, invest in an external charger. This way, you can charge your phone on the move without having to pay extra for charging lockers.
Carry Spare Cash: While we live in a digital age, unexpected situations can arise at concerts where you may lose your belongings or encounter payment issues. It’s wise to keep a small amount of cash tucked away in a sock, shoe or hat as a backup. You never know when it might come in handy.
Plan Your Exit Strategy: Being prepared means knowing how to leave if things take a turn. With massive crowds, it’s essential to have a designated meeting spot outside the venue in case of emergencies or if you get separated from your friends. Pinpoint a location such as the parking lot or a few blocks away to ensure a smooth rendezvous.
Choose Mosh Pit or VIP: Everyone has their preferences…just go in wherever you are!
BBA Trigga, the unapologetic rap artist and heir apparent to the Atlanta-based Block Entertainment empire, has teamed up with 2x Grammy-nominated music producer KXVI (known for his work with Future, DJ Khaled, Gucci Mane, NLE Choppa) and Space Cadet Sean to release a hard-hitting summer anthem titled “LIMPIN’.” The track, which follows his recent release “Bankroll,” was distributed by Human Re-sources/The Orchard across all streaming and digital platforms on June 2.
To accompany the release, BBA Trigga premiered the official music video for “LIMPIN'” on his YouTube channel on the same day. Directed by Diamond District and shot in the infamous streets of Atlanta, the video provides a cinematic depiction through the lens of security cameras, delivering a stern warning to both haters and hussies.
Building on the success of his 20-city Quality Control DJ’s national radio tour and Ca$h App May Giveaway, BBA Trigga has been steadily climbing the airplay charts and making appearances at commercial radio stations such as V-103 Atlanta, 101.1 The Beat Nashville, Sirius XM Pandora Now, Power 94, and more.
Influenced by his multi-platinum label predecessors like Yung Joc, Boyz N Da Hood, Young Jeezy, Gorilla Zoe, Jacquees, Fat Joe, Yung Berg, and Lil Xan, BBA Trigga is carving out his own path as an artist to watch. His honest and bold lyrics offer a glimpse into the flashy and politically charged world of street life, resonating with the obsession of Gen-Z.
New reports confirm that a 26-year-old man and JayDaYoungan affiliate accused of killing rapper Highway Youngin has died by suicide after a lengthy standoff with the police.
After hours of trying to negotiate his surrender on Thursday, June 1, Chief Jimmy Travis said, the young man, whose name is Tommie Diamond, shot himself in the stomach.
The incident happened around 11:30 p.m. after deputies from the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office came to arrest him at a family member’s Kentwood residence, FOX 8 Live reported.
The Tangipahoa Special Response team stated they tried to talk him down, but he threatened law enforcement with a possible attempt to commit suicide by cop.
Suicide by cop or suicide by police or law-enforcement-assisted suicide is when someone tried to kill themselves by deliberately provoking a lethal response from a public safety or law enforcement officer.
The suspect is said to have barricaded himself away from the officers inside the home before shooting himself in the stomach.
Deputies sent a drone into the residence to confirm his death.
Officials were on Diamond’s trial as he was accused of fatally shooting Highway Youngin (Calvin Felton) on Sunday, May 28.
Authorities were alerted of the deadly gunplay around 1 p.m. and discovered the North Short rapper in a Village of Tangipahoa yard with a gunshot wound to his stomach. The emerging artist died later that night.
The chief says Diamond had more than just Highway Youngin’s death. Before his untimely demise, he was possibly facing charges of second-degree murder, obstruction of justice, and contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile.
On Aug. 8, 2020, Diamond was with a group of seven men that fired into a birthday party crowd during a Roseland trail ride.
About 100 people were in attendance, one was a 21-year-old mother from Baton Rouge, who lost her life during the gunplay.
One of these men was rapper JayDaYoungan. The artist, whose real name is Javoris Scott, was charged with accessory to second-degree murder and obstruction of justice for his role in the incident.
Wytony Dillon, better known by his stage name Big Wy, one-half of the influential West Coast rap duo The Relativez, has died after struggling with health issues for several months. The cause of death is currently unknown.
Born on December 30, 1973, Big Wy launched his career in the mid-1990s, and became a prominent figure in the West Coast rap scene, hailing from Inglewood, California.
Big Wy first gained recognition under the alias Red Rag, as part of the rap collective Bloods & Crips with the release of the breakthrough album Bangin On Wax.
He was also a member of the Damu Ridas, a group comprised of fellow Blood-affiliated rappers.
Big Wy’s legacy in this period is also highlighted by his participation in the soundtracks for “Gang Related” and “Murder Was The Case,” which further expanded his influence in the music industry.
Big Wy continued to make waves in the music industry when he, alongside Dogg, Lil Stretch, and G-Pops, formed the rap group Young Soldierz in the mid-1990s.
They gained considerable attention with their song “Eastside-Westside” and were subsequently signed to Death Row Records by Suge Knight.
Young Soldierz released their debut self-titled album in 1994, featuring the singles “If Tomorrow Comes” and “Alligator.”
However, Big Wy’s most significant impact came when he and Suga Buga, previously known as Dogg, formed The Relativez in 1998, following the dissolution of Young Soldierz.
The duo went on to release several independent albums that featured artists such as B-Brazy, Mitchy Slick, WC, Kokane, and G Malone. Despite primarily gaining regional success, The Relativez became an integral part of the West Coast rap scene. The Relativez’s career was not without controversy.
They had a minor feud with rapper Mack 10, which resulted in the release of diss tracks from both parties. However, the feud has since been resolved.
Big Wy’s death marks the loss of a significant figure in the West Coast rap community. Everyone from Big U to Wack 100 expressed their condolences.
“REST WELL MY BLOOD KING !! INGWOOD FINEST ( BIGY ) DAMN WE JUST TALK THE OTHER DAY….. YOU CALL TO GIVE ME CONGRATULATIONS ON MY SON * DAIYAN GOING TO THE LEAGUE!! DIDN’T EXSPECT THIS ONE. 🚩 I SEND MY CONDOLENCES 🙏🏿 TO THE ( FAMILY ) & RED TEAM,” Big U said.
“This one sat me down . Had to go through the phases of reminiscing , breaking down & smiling . One of our West Coast #Legends . @bigwy.media , he put on for the Gang 🩸& the Culture. Help mold youngsters lives & was a real homie , father & friend. Always was humble but stern. Did his dirt did his time and came back to these streets and kept doing it. Last we spoke you told me you wished s### could get back to where it’s at . Homie i’m still the same with you ! You never changed up on me and that I Respect,” Wack 100 said.
Big Wy”s contributions to the West Coast rap scene were substantial, and he will be remembered for his unique sound, tenacious spirit, and enduring influence.
More details about Kanye West’s mysterious Donda Academy have been disclosed thanks to a recent amendment to the lawsuit filed by one of the private school’s former teachers.
Timani Meeks is suing the new school for wrongful termination, alleging after only two months of working as a 5th through 8th-grade teacher, she was fired in October 2022 without probable cause.
She claims the school and its administration engaged in discrimination, retaliation, and labor code violations.
In her claim, she also says the school didn’t have any textbooks for the kids to learn from and she was let go because parents started to complain about the lack of teaching materials at her disposal as an educator.
Meeks’ lawyers wrote in the lawsuit, “Specifically, they complained that there were no books, textbooks, or any sort of educational items that would typically be found in a classroom. Students were eventually given workbooks and printouts of online worksheets.”
In addition to talking about the circumstances surrounding her termination from the school, she also mentioned that the actual campus was unsafe for the students. The lawsuit says there are electrical wires poking out of the wall.
Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez wants people to know she does not have a crush on Twitter owner Elon Musk.
Despite having numerous spats with the radical South Afrikan, she took to social media to clarify what’s parody and what is fact.
On Sunday, May 28, a fake Twitter account, created just to poke fun at the leftist politicians, posted “This might be the wine talking, but I’ve got a crush on @elonmusk.”
Tagging on with the joke, the billionaire SpaceX/ Tesla CEO posted a fire emoji, as if to say the thought of his nemesis romantically checking for him is hot.
Days went by, but of course, the real AOC heard about the spoof and shut it all the way down.
On Tuesday, May 30, she tweeted, “FYI there’s a fake account on here impersonating me and going viral. The Twitter CEO has engaged it, boosting visibility. It is releasing false policy statements and gaining spread.”
Adding, “I am assessing with my team how to move forward. In the meantime, be careful of what you see.”
FYI there’s a fake account on here impersonating me and going viral. The Twitter CEO has engaged it, boosting visibility.
It is releasing false policy statements and gaining spread.
I am assessing with my team how to move forward. In the meantime, be careful of what you see.
Many people thought she should just relax and go along with the joke. But the Bronx bombshell did not see the humor in it at all.
This just made the parody account poke more fun at the excitable congresswoman.
The fake AOC Twitter account wrote, “After brainstorming with my staff – I’m going to push Congress to make it illegal to joke, laugh, or make fun of me. Parody should be illegal.”
However, it was “permanently suspended for its misleading parody content,” under Jack Dorsey, Twitter’s founder’s leadership. With Musk at the helm, the account is back in motion and also has a blue check without even paying for it.
Wonder why it took a while for AOC to respond? It’s simple. She was working in Congress to make sure the debt ceiling is raised and the country does not default on any of its domestic and global financial obligations.
Yup … to make sure that Grandma’s social security check is there when she needs it.
She didn’t have time to play on Twitter … too busy trying to serve the country.
AOC did repost something right before the parody went up. And coincidentally, it was about Musk. The politician drew attention to a post Musk made where he lifted a quote of from Kevin Strom, a devout white supremacist, and said it was Voltaire.
This quote that Elon Musk retweeted is not actually from Voltaire, it's from neo-Nazi and white supremacist Kevin Strom.
So weird how he keeps stumbling upon all of these white supremacist memes. I'm sure it's fine. https://t.co/uyA1yEw6d8
Rapper/singer Toosii (born NauJour Lazier Grainger) released his new studio LP today (June 2). The NAUJOUR album features Khalid, Future, 21 Savage, and Wallo.
“I had always told myself that when I dropped my debut album, it would be a self-titled album. I feel like there is a difference between NauJour and Toosii and with this album, I am actually giving people the real in my life,” states the Capitol recording artist.
NAUJOUR joins a catalog that includes other releases such as 2020’s Poetic Pain, 2021’s Thank You for Believing, and 2022’s Boys Don’t Cry. Toosii has also appeared on projects by Lil Tjay, DaBaby, Stunna 4 Vegas, Queen Naija, Aminé, and others.
“I want NAUJOUR to be a classic, timeless project,” says Toosii about his latest full-length offering. “I want people to understand who I truly am and recognize that I am an artist that’s going to be around forever and not for the moment.”
NAUJOUR hosts the “Favorite Song” single. The Adelso and Tatiana Manaois-produced track became Toosii’s first Top 10 entry on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Favorite Song” has peaked at No. 5 on the weekly rankings of the most popular songs in America.
Georgia-raised rapper Sergio Kitchens, better known as Gunna, returned with new music this week. No one should expect to hear Boosie Badazz on a possible remix of that “Bread & Butter” track.
Gunna’s comeback record arrives as some of his rap peers have publicly denounced him for taking an Alford plea deal last year in a state RICO case in Fulton County, Georgia. Observers accused the DS4Ever album creator of “snitching” on his YSL label boss Young Thug and his co-defendants.
Boosie Badazz has been one of Gunna’s harshest critics. TMZ caught up with Boosie in New York City on Thursday. The cameraperson asked the Baton Rouge-bred rhymer if he would be willing to make music with Gunna for a tax-free $1 billion payout.
“With no tax?” asked Boosie Badazz. “I don’t wanna talk about a rat. Give me a billion dollars… No, I ain’t gonna even say it… I don’t want to incriminate myself with what I would do with a billion dollars… what I would do to a rat if they gave me a rat to do business with for a billion dollars.”
The 40-year-old former prison inmate also took direct verbal shots at Gunna by again referring to him as a rat. Boosie Badazz also said, “They got a lotta Gunnas in this sewer. We’re in New York City. I see about three Gunnas right now. One just went under the sewer.”
Gunna dropped “Bread & Butter” on June 2. The Turbo, Omar Grand, and Cam Griffin-produced single did come out under the Young Stoner Life Records/300 Entertainment banner. An official black-and-white music video for the song premiered on YouTube.
Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye is preparing for his new HBO television series The Idol to debut on Sunday, June 4. The Canadian singer/songwriter also provided his music fans with a new tune.
“Popular” arrived on June 2. The Weeknd connected with Hip Hop artist Playboi Carti and the legendary Queen of Pop Madonna to serve as guest features on the track. “Popular” lives on The Idol, Vol. 1 (Music from the HBO Original Series) project.
Apple Music 1 host Zane Lowe recently spoke to The Weeknd for New Music DailyRadio. Part of the interview included Tesfaye chatting about the creation of the “Popular” collaboration. They also discussed TheIdol.
“I’m proud of it. I’m definitely proud of it,” said The Weeknd. “[Playboi Carti and I] had a different version of this song prior. So I’ve had these vocals for a while and I’ve kind of just worked around it, and then kind of kept it in the tuck. But now it felt like it was time. It was time.”
The 33-year-old entertainer added, “And then Madonna, Madge. She’s the ultimate co-sign for this song, for this album, and for this TV show. And you’ll hear more of her in the show as well too. She is the ultimate pop star.”
HBO’s The Idol tells the story of a musician, played by Lily-Rose Depp, who is trying to recapture her position as an up-and-coming star after suffering a nervous breakdown. Abel Tesfaye stars as a cult leader in the drama series.
Additionally, The Weeknd is credited as a co-creator and executive producer for The Idol. The program premiered at the 76th Cannes Film Festival in France on May 22. There has been controversy surrounding The Idol‘s production and themes.
“I feel great because everyone involved feels great. Everyone is happy, is excited. We’re all so proud of what we made. It’s controversial. It is. And as you know, I’m no stranger to it. [Co-creator Sam Levinson] is no stranger to it,” The Weeknd told Zane Lowe.
He continued, “We’re just excited for people to finally watch it and come up with their own opinion. Which I think is important, because there’s a lot of talking and no one has seen the show… Talk about nerves. I mean, I don’t think I’ve ever been that nervous since the first time I ever performed at The Mod Club.”
Get ready to groove to the infectious beats of the hottest artist to hit the music scene, KHAOTIC, as he releases his new single “Appreciate Me.” Known for his appearances on the hit television show Love and Hip Hop Atlanta, Khaotic is swiftly becoming a household name and capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.
With multiple viral videos under his belt, including shoutouts from superstars like Chris Brown and DJ Akademics, Khaotic knows how to create waves in the industry. Now, with “Appreciate Me,” he’s ready to conquer the charts and make his mark in the music world.
“Appreciate Me” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem, a timeless masterpiece that will have you hooked from the first beat. This catchy tune has an infectious effect, making it impossible to resist the urge to dance. And guess what? TikTok influencers are already jumping on board, showcasing their moves to the world.
Two of TikTok’s hottest artists, @MonstaMovez (1.4 million followers) and @Fresh.p (1.3 million followers), were quick to embrace the new dance trend that accompanies “Appreciate Me.” With their phenomenal talent and flair, they’ve breathed life into Khaotic’s vision. Khaotic is calling the “Appreciate Me” dance the “new Macarena.” Prepare yourself for a dance revolution!
But what’s the story behind this viral hit? “Appreciate Me” tells the tale of a guy who just wants to feel valued for all the incredible things he does for his significant other. It’s a universal sentiment that resonates with anyone who’s ever craved appreciation and recognition. Khaotic’s lyrics and soulful delivery bring this message to life, leaving listeners with a catchy melody that will stick with them for seasons to come.
“Appreciate Me” is poised to dominate the airwaves this summer and beyond. With Khaotic’s undeniable talent, the support of superstar influencers, and an unforgettable dance attached to it, this track has all the ingredients for chart-topping success. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the movement.
So, get ready to turn up the volume, hit the dance floor, and let Khaotic’s “Appreciate Me” take you on a musical journey like no other. Be sure to follow Khaotic on social media for updates on new music, videos, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.
KHAOTIC is an Atlanta-based artist who rose to fame through his appearances on the hit television show Love and Hip Hop Atlanta. With a unique blend of catchy beats and soulful lyrics, Khaotic is taking the music industry by storm. His latest single, “Appreciate Me,” is set to become a chart-topper and solidify his status as one of the hottest names in music.
