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.
Once again, Cardi B is a top trending topic on social media. The Invasion of Privacy album creator teamed up with Latto for the new “Put It On Da Floor Again” single.
The remix to Latto’s “Put It On Da Floor” arrived with an official music video. Several celebrities made cameos in the clip, including Louisiana State University Women’s Basketball player Angel Reese.
“I told y’all I wanted to be a video vixen😭,” tweeted Angel Reese on Friday morning after the “Put It On Da Floor Again” video premiered. The 21-year-old athlete later added, “Now I see why y’all hate me, GOOD NIGHTTTT from tallyyyy😭🤣.”
Cardi B referenced Angel Reese and the rest of the NCAA Championship-winning LSU Tigers on the “Put It On Da Floor Again” song. At one point, the Grammy winner raps, “I been balling so damn hard, could’ve went to LSU.”
In addition, Cardi’s husband, Offset of the Migos rap group, appears in the “Put It On Da Floor Again” video. The three-minute visual, filmed partially in Atlanta’s Jewelry Unlimited, is already trending in the Top 10 of YouTube’s music section.
Many music fans also assumed Latto took subliminal shots at Nicki Minaj on “Put It On Da Floor” as retaliation for Minaj possibly sneak dissing the Atlanta native on “Red Ruby Da Sleeze.” There are a few lines in Cardi B’s verse on “Put It On Da Floor Again” that could also be directed at her longtime rival, Nicki Minaj.
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LL Cool J abruptly switched course on his new project after a nighttime vision from the late Phife Dawg.
The self-proclaimed G.O.A.T. is working on a comeback album after a decade-long absence. The project is said to be feature-packed with rumored guest appearances from Eminem, Nas, Fat Joe, Rick Ross, Saweetie, and more.
Furthermore, the highly anticipated offering is entirely produced by Q-Tip, but it didn’t start out that way.
During a recent appearance on Way Up With Angela Yee, LL Cool J revealed how he went from making “30 to 40 songs” with Dr. Dre before ditching the lot and linking with the Tribe Called Quest member.
LL Cool J Wasn’t Feeling His Writing On The Dr. Dre Beats
“So, the real story is that I did about 30 to 40 songs with Dr. Dre, and in doing those songs I felt like — the music was amazing,” he explained. “What Dre was bringing to the table was super dope. But I felt like the writing, what I was bringing to these songs didn’t feel strong enough to me.”
He added, “I didn’t feel like I was expressing, I was getting out of me, what I was feeling. In my mind, I didn’t feel like it was written properly.”
However, LL Cool J says the solution to his problems came after Phife Dawg visited him in a dream. The vision inspired him to draft in the late rapper’s A Tribe Called Quest groupmate Q-Tip to get the album back on track.
“So, I took a pause. Me and Dre just kinda paused for a minute. And I ended up having a dream, and in this dream, Phife Dawg from A Tribe Called Quest came to me,” he added. “When he came in my dream he was like ‘Yo, that album you gonna do with Dre is gonna be dope.’ And I’m looking at him, and he’s smirking a little bit.
“He had a funny look on his face. And then when I woke up, I just felt like Q-Tip was on my spirit. So I just called him. He picked up and I told him that I wanted to do an album. We went and did the record and the rest is history.”
Gunna has responded to his critics in his new song, “Bread & Butter,” his first single since taking a plea deal in the YSL RICO case.
The College Park, Georgia native has been at the center of snitching allegations since his release last December. His loyalty and street cred were questioned after a courtroom video showed him telling a judge YSL is a violent street gang during the December plea deal hearing.
He was dragged online, and manyartists branded Gunna a rat and refused to ever work with him. Although he’s kept a low profile since regaining his freedom, Wunna addressed the allegations in “Bread & Butter,” released Friday (Jun. 2).
The “Pushin P” hitmaker denied giving a statement and insisted he never agreed to testify against Young Thug and the other YSL defendants. He also claimed he was hoodwinked by the D.A. and accused prosecutors of doing “some sneaky s###.”
“Never gave no statement or agreed to take no stand on ’em,” Gunna raps on “Bread & Butter.” “On whatever you n##### on, then trust me, I’ma stand on it/Lawyers and the DA did some sneaky s###, I fell for it/On my Ps and Qs because, this time, I be prepared for it, yeah/’Posed to shine, these n##### throwin’ shade, though.”
Watch the video below and stream the single at the end of the page.
Gunna – Bread & Butter
Elsewhere on the track, Gunna took aim at one of the rappers who flipped, labeling him a rat.
“You b####-ass n##### got me as the topic of the chat,” Gunna stated. “You switched on me when you know you in business with a rat/And the boy that’s like your brother, and nobody speak on that/You still f### with a n#### that done got yo’ partner (Wacked).”
Scar Lip is making major inroads in her music career and just landed a new deal with Epic Records.
Fellow Bronx representative and Epic Records alum Swizz Beatz announced the exciting news Thursday (Jun. 1), welcoming the talented newcomer to the roster.
He shared a series of posts marking the signing while thanking those who helped Scar Lip in her journey.
“It’s very rare to meet greatness ! @scar_lip congrats and I’m proud of you sis you’re family now and beyond ⚡️⚡️ life begins now ! your story is Epic !!!!“Shout out @epicrecords ⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️ get ready for action 🫶🏾🫶🏾🫶🏾🫶🏾🫶🏾🫶🏾⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️⚡️🏆” he penned in the caption.
“You have the best in the biz on your side. Now the real work begins. The rest is up to you!” Swizz Beatz added on his Instagram Story.
He also shared a video of the Epic Records team toasting Scar Lip’s arrival. “It would be our pleasure. We would be proud to work with you,“ Epic Records CEO Chairperson Sylvia told Scar Lip. “Here’s to the future.”
Scar Lip burst onto the scene earlier this year with “This Is New York,” racking up more than 1.6 million views on YouTube since its premiere in early April. She also received hefty co-signs from fellow NCY artists, including Busta Rhymes and Cardi B. Snoop Dogg loved her breakout track so much that he jumped on the “This Is Cali” remix last month.
In April, the Bronx newcomer joined Swizz Beatz, Jadakiss, and Benny The Butcher for the “Take ‘Em Out” visuals.
Swizz Beatz Says Scar Lip Was Sent By DMX
Swizz Beatz recently discussed working with Scar Lip and believes she was sent to him by the late DMX.
“I honestly feel like DMX sent Scar Lip my way,” he said in May. “Because she’s too much of his energy. Like I’ve never seen an artist that just naturally has what I know DMX has. And they’re two different artists, two different levels, yes. But I’m not talking about that. I’m talking about in here.”
The Verzuz co-founder added, “That sister’s been through a lot like dog been through a lot. When you sit with her, she’s amazing and has a great heart, the same way X had a great heart. She just represents the have-nots, like X represents the have-nots. And for her to have gone through all those different things and still have a smile on her face. I’m like, man, she gotta win.”
Meanwhile, Scar Lip has taken Swizz Beatz’s advice and is getting down to the “real work.” In an Instagram video, she showed how she’s preparing to hit the Summer Jam stage this weekend.
Hip-Hop Pioneer Grandmaster Flash reflected on his humble beginnings, crediting the Bronx for making him who is while addressing the class of 2023 at Lehman College in the Bronx, New York, Thursday (Jun. 1) as he received an Honorary Doctorate of Music.
The legendary turntablist also served as the 2023 Spring Commencement Ceremony speaker alongside former New York State Rep. José Rivera, who was also awarded an honorary degree. In his moving speech, Grandmaster Flash addressed the history of Hip-Hop as the genre celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.
He also explained his innovative “quick mix theory,” a technique he developed to create an endless loop between two records playing the same sample using different turntables.
“We from the Bronx — we are starters, we are finishers, we are very, very important,” he stated. “And I must tell you, young people, as you go out into the world, you will probably do what I did… [and] [make] mistakes. I cannot tell you how many mistakes I made before the technique finally came into fruition. I say to young people, as you leave here, you will scrape your knees, [that’s] guaranteed, but we Bronx people, we go hard.”
The iconic DJ added: “With today’s technology — computers, studios, engineers, social media, [and the] internet — you guys got a headstart on being the next geniuses. You have an incredible head start.”
Grandmaster Flash Tells Graduates: “You Are The Next Geniuses”
He continued, “I can remember while touring, trying to tell the world, ‘the Bronx matters,’” he said. “This thing came from the Bronx. This thing is called Hip Hop. So I stand in front of you guys and women, [and say] you are the next geniuses. It’s up to you guys now. You are the future.”
While Grandmaster Flash has a dazzling array of accolades, including a lifetime achievement Grammy and a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, he noted this honor was extra special. He also received another honorary doctorate from Buffalo State College last May but said this degree was the “most important” to him because he received it in his hometown. Watch his moving speech here.
“HOETALE” by Twynn might just be the new anthem for this coming summer. Twynn is a musical duo composed of Shardae DéVine and Ayanna Ife, the latter of whom is visually impaired but incredibly talented. In fact, thanks to the virality of “HOETALE,” Ayanna has since doubled her followers on TikTok, inspired her to return back to her first love: music.
The song itself has accumulated over 27K remakes in just one month, with celebrities such as Latto, Lala Milan, and Erica Kane all making videos to the song on TikTok. The song also marks the beginning of Twynn, inspired by the fact that they both call each other their twin — especially when it comes to the music.
Both hailing from Philadelphia, Ayanna and Shardae are LGBTQ recording artists who have been in music damn near their entire lives. Now that they have their buzz going, they’re ready to drop bangers all year long.
Speaking on their unreleased music, Ayanna states, “I want you to be prepared for a vibe. Be prepared for a party vibe. We’re like Kid ‘n Play, but in the 21st century.”
AllHipHop spoke with Ayanna and Shardae in downtown Los Angeles, who flew across the country from their hometown to meet the who’s who of the industry. Read below as we discuss how “HOETALE” came to be.
AllHipHop: For those who don’t know, who is Twynn?
Shardae: Go ahead,I think you got that one.
Ayanna: It wasn’t prophesized, but it’s interesting how this whole thing came to be. Our moms are creative because they’re hairstylists. When we were kids, they worked at the same shop. They were this dynamic duo of Philly, the hot girls in Philly. We’re little kids, we always got dragged to all of the house parties. Little women’s parties they like to have, the empowerment things. They’d always drag us there, and it was always lit! It was so much fun. When we became teenagers, Me and Shardae didn’t really hang out. She had her own things going on, I had my own things going on. We connected because I wanted to shape up, and she’s a barber and a hairstylist. She did my locs too.
Shardae: [laughs] Yup.
Ayanna: Hey Shardae, can I get a shape up? She’s like, “Can I get a song?” I’m like, you know I’m in retirement. I put down the mic, I never was ever going to do this ever again.
AllHipHop: Why?
Ayanna: Because it didn’t go anywhere. I was tired of investing all my money and my time, then and it not working. But my TikTok was already poppin’ by this point, so it’s nothing wrong with giving it a try. At least I have more of an audience by this point. We did this song called “HOETALE.” One day, we woke up in the morning. Got up really early and tried to record it at the studio. The engineer did not like us. I don’t think it’s anything personal, but all I’m saying is he didn’t want to mix it. It was the laziest mix I’ve ever heard. Dude, I could put you on my TikTok and let them know you mixed this. I was trying to help him. He didn’t believe me, he thought I was a nobody, trying to make a corny song.
Shardae: We did it three different times.
Ayanna: We ended up going to MilkBoy, which is the most acknowledged studio in Philly right now. That’s where everyone goes, and that’s the one we ended up using. After we made “HOETALE,” we’re like yo, we really be on some twin type times. Especially when it comes to how we be vibing with the girls. We’re both studs, we both love to party. We have a good time. She didn’t know I’d love this, but her first thing to me after I asked for the shape up, she said “I want to do a freaky girl song.” That’s definitely my twin! You really know where I’m at with it. All we’ve made, the whole catalog is full of summertime freaky girl songs. And we love it. [laughs]
AllHipHop: Is there any significance in the spelling of the name?
Shardae: Definitely, I came up with it. She’s the one who sent me the beat, I got this vibe of summertime. Fun time. When I went to go spell it, because we already had the anthem part of it. It was done, but when we went to go pick the name of the song, it can’t just say regular hotel. A bunch of other people named their songs that. When I thought about a hoe and her stories, oh let’s put it together. A HOETALE.
Ayanna: To be honest, I’m like okay…
Shardae: She didn’t like it at first.
Ayanna: Now, it’s the most brilliant thing. It’s so double entendre. It’s really killing me, I love it.
Shardae: We went to the abandoned train tracks up the street from my house in Philly.
Ayanna: We thought it was abandoned! Nearly got hit by a train, but that’s for another time. That’s where we shot the little home video. We climbed the grass to get to the top of the train tracks.
Shardae: With the dog.
Ayanna: With my service dog, we’re throwing the dog over the gate. We can make this happen, we just want to try. Because we didn’t think it would go big at all. We need to put something out to rap it to, to use it as a sound. Some kind of visual. We were up there, playing around, rapping on the train tracks. It went crazy, now it’s at sixteen million views. It went berserk. It wasn’t even a real official video. When that happened, everyone started using the sound. Latto made a video to the sound, so many wild things. All influential TikTokers have used the sound, it’s amazing.
AllHipHop: Organically too! People pay for that.
Ayanna: Forreal? They be paying for it? That’s crazy, because I’ve never even paid for a viewer or follower. I get this organically, so how much would it cost to get a big boost? What they’re offering for money, it’s something I was already getting organically. Wow, how the hell did my TikTok blow up like this?
AllHipHop: How did your TikTok blow up? Was there a certain thing that went viral?
Ayanna: Yes, oh my God. I don’t know if Shar knows the first first, because they took that account down a long time ago. The first thing that ever made me go viral, I was bored. I was sitting on my couch like, “if I’m strapping you down, giving it to you good. And you calling me daddy, you mine now. We married now.” It went crazy. They’re like “oh, she can’t even see!” I started defending myself on TikTok, so I’m the clapback king right now. That’s how I got started. It wasn’t new to me when Twynn started to get into picture, people stopping me on the street. But now, they know me for something else.
Shardae: You gotta think about it, when she was doing her clapbacks, her account was at 400K. Now, it’s at 700K. She gained all those followers just from putting “HOETALE” out.
AllHipHop: When did “HOETALE” come out?
Ayanna: April 12th.
Shardae: A month ago. [laughs] Her s### went even more crazy after that, doubled the followers. That’s insane.
Ayanna: That is scary. When we got to eight million views, okay so something about this song is resonating with the collective youth.It’s something super relatable.
Shardae: With the world.
AllHipHop: I saw Lala Milan make a TikTok, that’s my girl.
Ayanna: Oh she did? I like Erica Kane. She’s a super big influencer. I was so happy when my favorite influencers were using the sound. I’m waiting for Kehlani to use it. We follow each other on there, I’m hoping that one day… I know deep in her heart, she wants to do it. Because she’s very open about being queer, as we are. This would be crazy, and since we follow each other…
AllHipHop: Do they have DMs on TikTok?
Ayanna: Yeah, I’ve been too afraid.
Shardae: Her s### be flooded, she can’t even get to them all. It be so many.
Ayanna: It was a lot. Keke Palmer, and I didn’t know for days. I had to send her a message: “Keke, I really appreciate you showing me all of this love.” It’s insane. I don’t know what’s going on, but I was a random massage therapist. Now, I’m a part of a rap duo. A nuanced rap duo, where you’ve never seen two studs in a group. It’s niche.
Shardae: For the most part when you look at it, a lot of studs don’t like studs. They don’t get along in our community. But when you see us, and we can get along, it gives everybody else the same type of view. Damn, you can like somebody who’s like you and not feel jealous or envious.
Ayanna: We’re like brothers. We’re studs, but we have a song about getting our nails done. We’re not afraid to show femininity or do feminine things, because it’s fun. Super fun.
AllHipHop: How long have you guys been doing music? Talk about your love for music.
Ayanna: Oh gosh, respectively both 15 years. Not together.
Shardae: Yup, we just started doing it together in April.
Ayanna: I’ve been doing it since I was 14. I used to be a bored kid, I didn’t have anything else to do. I used to make music and someone told my mom that it was good. She’s like “wait, what? We’re gon’ try to take this thing to the top!” She went straight Joe Jackson in my youth, tried to take it to the top. But it got exhausting. Sometimes people don’t have loyalty when they’re doing music, they will try to backdoor you or manipulate you in some way. It’s overwhelming. I love being creative. I love doing things that are creative, but maybe not this. TikTok came back and I found a new outlet, it led me back.
Shardae: She’s the one who inspired me to do music. Because she’s a year or two older than me. When we were growing up, I saw her doing it. I went to high school with him [points to friend, CurtDaRula], he was working on his producing. He’s like “come on. You want to do it, let’s do it.” He forced me to get in the studio, that’s how I started. I was on Vine back in the day, dancing all the time. I was doing music in the background. Now, everything’s coming in full circle. So for all of us to be together now, it’s kinda creepy.
AllHipHop: Do you guys have favorite artists?
Ayanna: Yes, Kehlani. The music, first of all it’s always been queer. She’s always been bi. But when Kehlani came out as non-binary and really embraced: I’m a lesbian, and started making songs about — already a dope writer. Already can sing, the vocals are unmatched. You add in that she’s queer, using she/they pronouns. You’re everything I’d want in an artist: gay, talented. Frank Ocean and Kehlani are definitely my favorites.
AllHipHop: Does that mean you make R&B too?
Shardae: See, I’m getting her into that.
Ayanna: This one is an amazing singer. She sounds like Omarion when she sings, she can sing forreal.
Shardae: A little bit. [laughs] I love Drake, because we got the same birthday. A day apart. Beyonce, those are my two alter egos. Sasha Fierce, then Lover Boy.
Ayanna: I love Drake. Drake’s lyricism inspires a lot of how I write. If you listen to me, you’d be like okay, she’s probably inspired by Drake.
Shardae: Which one though? Which one of his bangers?
Ayanna: Probably not “nice for what to these…” All the songs he talks about loving strippers, being vulnerable and giving up his money. I understand him on a loving lesbian level. Drake and I are both lesbians. On that level, we relate.
AllHipHop: What’s your writing process in the studio?
Ayanna: Oh gosh.
Shardae: Can I explain yours? It’s so awesome, because the first time I saw it, I didn’t believe it. You know she suffers from her visual impairment, we not gon’ make that a thing. When she goes in and she can’t write anything down and read it, she has to navigate through the sound. She’ll put the earphones on. She’ll go in and stutter her way through until she finds her words. Once she found her words, it just comes out. Literally what you hear versus how it comes out is not the same at all. To see the process is f###### amazing, it gives me goosebumps all the time.
AllHipHop: So you basically freestyle?
Ayanna: Yeah, I basically freestyle. What I try to do with my writing, a lot of lines in “HOETALE” could be trending sounds. “Err-err,” things I know people can relate to. I like to give people something to chant. “This is a just a HOETALE!” Something for people to chant that’s a bit taboo. Chant taboo things. I’m an Aquarius, I like going against the grain. If you’re going to shout some radical s###, let’s shout this out to radical s###. “Your ass real but this dick not.” Be bold.
Shardae: I’m more chill. No real process for me, I just go with the flow. Feed off the energy.
AllHipHop: Were you born with the visual impairment?
Ayanna: I was. It’s called Leber’s congenital amaurosis. It affects the rods and cones, which control light, detail, depth, perception, all of that. It also causes nystagmus, which is involuntary eye roving. So yeah, whole life.
EPMD legend Erick Sermon is mourning the loss of his mother. According to an Instagram post he shared on Thursday (June 1), Belinda F. Sermon will be celebrated on June 9 in Bayshore, New York. He wrote in the caption: “This is the hardest thing I ever had to deal with in my life. Please pray for my sisters @kaye_sermon @poet2006 and I. Plus my entire family.
“My mom wishes was for her family to come together. Love one another. Don’t let no one or anyone come in between us. For our family to communicate more. Support each other. And to celebrate life. We will do all of that. If you knew my moms you would know that she loved and helped everyone in her path prayed for them too no matter what. She was truly Gods gift. An angel. We will miss u mom. I will miss you. REST IN PARADISE QUEEN SEE you when I get there.”
Erick Sermon’s post yielded an onslaught of reactions from his Hip-Hop peers. Warren G wrote, “Keep ya heads up homeboy I been there it’s hard but understand this what we have to go through much love to you and family she in good hands know that Stay strong.”
D-Nice added a simple, “Love you!” while DJ Premier wrote, “Salute to your MOM And your entire family E.” Big Boi, his EPMD brethren DJ Scratch, Layzie Bone, Immortal Technique, Lord Finesse, Hi-Tek, Jadakiss and Chali 2na were among the many flooding his post with condolences.
Erick Sermon has been open about his struggles in recent months. In January, he addressed his opioid addiction and his mother’s cancer diagnosis.
“2023 WOW,” he wrote. “so blessed to have lived this long. Life isn’t guaranteed so don’t take it for granted. I’m fresh out of rehab, [seven] months clean from opioids. During this time, my moms was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer liver, kidney, and chest. Changed my entire life around.”
Although Sermon didn’t confirm his mother died from cancer, it’s safe to say it’s likely what led to her passing. AllHipHop sends our condolences to Erick Sermon and his family.
Future gave back to his community by creating a STEAM Lab for students in Atlanta.
The rapper’s Freewishes Foundation opened the I Am a Dreamer lab in the Kirkwood neighborhood. Future and his foundation went beyond the STEM staples with a program that features the arts.
Future’s sister Tia Wilburn discussed the I Am a Dreamer lab in an interview with ABC News. She explained why the program included the arts in addition to science, technology, engineering and mathematics education.
“A program that incorporates the arts into the curriculum has been proven to increase creativity,” she said. “Additionally, by Future being an artist, it’s important that we introduce students to career paths that land under the arts. We want to be sure that kids get that exposure to the arts. And it’s just really important, so that’s why we made sure to include it.”
ABC News spoke with Christian Phillips, a student enrolled in the program. He expressed his excitement to learn about entrepreneurship, robotics and gaming before revealing his acting aspirations.
“My dream is to be an actor,” he said. “And I feel like this program will help out to pursue my dream.”
Learn more about Future’s Freewishes Foundation here.
Federal prosecutors asked a judge to force Sony Music and Universal Music Publishing Group to hand over funds linked to R. Kelly.
According to Billboard, the feds think R. Kelly’s label and publisher are “in possession of property” that can help cover his debts from his sex crimes convictions. The disgraced artist owes $504,289 in victim restitution and fines.
Prosecutors previously seized roughly $30,000 from R. Kelly’s prison commissary account in 2022. But the feds find themselves competing with other parties who are trying to collect debts from the singer.
A victim named Heather Williams sought funds from R. Kelly’s Sony account after winning $4 million in a civil case against him. A property management company also intended to collect a $3.5 million judgment for unpaid rent. Earlier this year, a court ruling revealed R. Kelly had $1,544,333 in his Sony royalty account in 2020.
R. Kelly was convicted of sex trafficking and racketeering in New York in 2021. A judge sentenced him to 30 years in prison in 2022.
Last year, R. Kelly was found guilty of producing child pornography and enticing minors to engage in sexual activity in Chicago. A judge sentenced him to an additional year in prison in February 2023.
