Snoop Dogg Celebrates Death Row Records Catalog Return To Streaming Services 

After inking a deal with former Apple executive Larry Jackson, Snoop Dogg has announced Death Row Records’ catalog return to streaming platforms.  

The West Coast icon pulled the Death Row projects from streamers shortly after acquiring the label last year. Earlier this week, Jackson launched gamma, a platform featuring stars like Usher and Rick Ross, in addition to Snoop Dogg.  

He teased the return on Thursday (Mar. 9) with several social media posts.  

“We heard you. The time has come,” read one joint post from Snoop and the label. “Death Row Records catalog is back streaming everywhere tonight 9pm PST.” 

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True to his word, the Doggfather took to Instagram Live right on time to celebrate the announcement.  

“Death Row Records about to be back live on streaming platforms, I know y’all been waiting on it. It’s back, had to make sure it was right before I put it back up,” he explained. “But everything will be back up for your streaming pleasures for you to enjoy.” He signed off, “Sincerely, from yours truly, Big Snoop Dogg.” 

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Snoop shared some of the now-streamable projects asking, “What u bumpin first ???” Listen to a selection of these at the end of the page.  

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During an appearance on Drink Champs last April, Snoop Dogg revealed why he pulled the iconic Death Row catalog. 

“First thing I did was snatch all the music off those platforms traditionally known to people, because those platforms don’t pay. And those platforms get millions of millions of streams, and nobody gets paid other than the record labels,” he explained. “So what I wanted to do is snatch my music off, create a platform similar to Amazon, Netflix, Hulu.” 

Diddy Honors Biggie, Tweets Friend Was ‘The Greatest Rapper Of All Time!’

P. Diddy, Bad Boy founder and the man that signed The Notorious B.I.G. to Uptown and then Bad Boy Records, took to Twitter to pay tribute to his friend on the day when he was abruptly taken from the world 26 years ago.

Diddy aka Brother Love tweeted a video of Biggie talking. In the caption, he posted, “There will NEVER be another. The GREATEST RAPPER OF ALL TIME. Today we celebrate and honor you, king. Love and miss you!!”

In the video, the Brooklyn native tells fans, “Don’t be the fool to sit back and do it because not else doing it”

Adding, “The only thing you’re gonna do is follow with somebody else’s footsteps. Then you’re just gonna be a shadow. Who wants to be a shadow for the rest of their life? You know what I’m saying?”

“If you got a little something you know how to do, progress at it, keep trying. I mean God knows what could happen. That’s what I did. Just kept on rapping and it happened to get to the right ears.”

Those ears were Sean “Then-Puff Daddy” Combs, the Vice President of A&R at Uptown Records, who dropped Biggie’s first single, “Party and Bulls##t.”

On Mar. 9, 1997, the Notorious B.I.G., whose birth name was Christopher Wallace, was fatally shot after leaving the Vibe party during the Soul Train weekend in Los Angeles.

Hip-Hop has never been the same.

India Arie Explains Why She Ended Her Spotify Protest After Joe Rogan Controversy

India Arie’s music returned to Spotify a year after she boycotted the streaming service over its $200 million deal with Joe Rogan.

Last year, several artists pulled their music from Spotify due to Joe Rogan’s COVID misinformation. India Arie joined in the exodus, citing the comedian’s racist language. She also expressed concerns about Spotify’s treatment of Black artists.

India Arie ended her Spotify protest in February 2023. She detailed why she decided to put her music back on the streaming service in an interview with Billboard.

“Something big did change for me where I started getting these royalties payments,” she noted. “I’ll be getting my first ones this year. But also, [NMPA president/CEO] David Israelite won the lawsuit where [the royalty rate for songwriters will be increased from 10.5% to 15.1% over the course of stream payments from the years 2018 to 2022], which is huge when you’re getting a fraction of a penny.”

She added, “So when those two things shifted, I put my music back up. Cause I want my checks. And not only do I want my checks, I deserve my checks. There’s still not gonna be enough. And there’s still so much that needs to be changed in the music industry for it to be humane, really. But I stood up for myself and I got some shift, and I want my checks, period.”

India Arie recalled Spotify’s initial interest in talking with her about her issues with the company. The singer-songwriter said she never had productive discussions with Spotify, which largely ignored her calls and requests.

50 Cent Teams With ‘John Wick’ Director For ‘Vice City’ Series

50 Cent’s Vice City tease turned out to be a new television show in the works at Paramount Plus.

According to Deadline, 50 Cent partnered with John Wick director Chad Stahelski and others to develop a series tentatively titled Vice City. The G-Unit boss boasted about his latest TV project on Thursday (March 9).

“From the director of John Wick Chad Stahelski & ya Boy 50 VICE CITY,” he wrote on Instagram. “GLG BOOM I don’t miss.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/CplKvOfOL5U/?hl=en

Earlier this month, 50 Cent hinted at the Vice City series in a since-deleted Instagram post. The outspoken rapper shared an image featuring the same pink font and cursive style used in the logo for the Grand Theft Auto: Vice City video game.

50 Cent’s post ignited speculation about his possible involvement in the Grand Theft Auto franchise. The next Grand Theft Auto game is widely rumored to be set in Vice City, a fictionalized version of Miami.

Deadline’s report didn’t indicate any direct connection between 50 Cent’s new show and Grand Theft Auto: Vice City. But the upcoming series will have a similar setting and subject matter.

The Vice City TV show tells the story of three friends dishonorably discharged from the military. The trio returns home to Miami and forms a heist crew, embarking on a life of crime.

EXCLUSIVE: YNW Bortlen Asks Court For Studio Time And Permission To Socialize As He Awaits Trial For Double Murder

Florida rappers YNW Melly and YNW Bortlen have been facing legal troubles since their arrest in connection with the murder of two of their friends in 2018.

In February 2019, YNW Melly, born Jamell Demons, and YNW Bortlen, born Cortlen Henry, were arrested and charged with two counts of first-degree murder for the deaths of Anthony “YNW Sakchaser” Williams, 21, and Christopher “YNW Juvy” Thomas Jr., 19, were both members of Demons’ YNW crew.

YNW Melly still faces the threat of the death penalty. Despite the serious charges, in March 2019, both rappers pled not guilty to the allegations of first-degree murder.

In August 2019, YNW Bortlen was placed on house arrest despite the opposition of his victims’ families. He wears an ankle monitor and cannot leave home except for court appearances and medical emergencies.

However, Bortlen is now seeking to modify the conditions of his release, asking for more freedom to socialize and work in the music studio.

Bortlen’s legal team has filed a motion to modify the conditions of his release, stating that he has been compliant with all the conditions so far.

The motion argues that he should be allowed to attend church, go to work in the studio, and interact with other people. According to the motion, these activities are essential for his mental health and well-being.

The rapper’s legal team also emphasized that Bortlen has already faced the consequences for allegedly violating the terms of his release, as he has been incarcerated and then re-released.

The motion suggests that Bortlen has learned his lesson and is now committed to abiding by the terms of his release.

It remains to be seen whether the court will grant Bortlen’s motion. The rapper is still facing serious charges, and the court may view any relaxation of his release conditions as a risk to public safety.

However, Bortlen’s legal team hopes the court will recognize his need to work and socialize and grant him the freedom he seeks.

¿Did A Mexican Drug Cartel REALLY Apologize For Killing Two Americans?

Wait a second. You mean to tell me in 2023 we have cartels apologizing for killing people? I’m not sure I can accept this as fact. I’m looking at some of your so-called websites and journalists and you guys are excepting this letter as fact.

Let’s back up a little bit. According to every publication on earth, two people were murdered down in Mexico by a drug cartel that thought they were trying to infringe on their territory. Two of the four people that lived, were sent back to United States. The other two, unfortunately were murdered in cold blood. There are a number of theories being floated around out there. Some say that, the cartel mistook the Americans for a sex trafficking mob (of four???). Others said it was drugs related, and others still said perhaps the people were down there buying drugs. Right now, we just don’t know. The story that the four Black people who were assaulted or killed, are sticking to is that they were there for cosmetic surgery. And the others that weren’t getting the surgery were supporting the individual that was.

This has been a whole mess! And, I can only imagine the impact that it has had on people coming into Mexico. And this is where my theory comes in. I have never in my life heard of a drug cartel issuing an apology letter. The prevailing thought around cartels is that they are heartless and ruthless, and don’t give a damn about who they killed. Especially in Mexico! Suddenly, we are making apologies?

Here is the letter for those that have yet to see it:

“We have decided to turn over those who were directly involved and responsible in the events, who at all times acted under their own decision-making and lack of discipline,” the letter reads, adding that those individuals had gone against the cartel’s rules, which include “respecting the life and well-being of the innocent.”

So, I believe that this letter was sent to the Associated Press through a law-enforcement source from the actual country of Mexico. Tourism is going to plummet after this. If it already hasn’t plummeted, it will plummet. I know, for a fact like people said, they are never going to Mexico again! We all saw the movie “Man On Fire” with Denzel, Washington! We know the Black people are not supposed to go to Mexico, and get murdered or kidnapped for ransom! I’m sorry, white people, but that is what happens to you guys!

So it is my theory that they decided to send this letter to smoothed over. There is another theory. The cartel knows that this will affect their business in a very adverse way, and they need to smooth it over. So, when somebody does mess up, they have been known to dismiss the individuals that did it. And when I say dismiss, I mean turn over to law-enforcement or kill them! Nevertheless, all parties included or not included, know that this is bad for business, whether that’s drugs, or tourism!

What do you think?

They need to change their name to the Compassionate Cartel, right?

Joe Budden Scolds Logic For Covering Ice Cube’s “It Was A Good Day”

Joe Budden lambasted Logic after hearing the 33-year-old rapper’s cover of Ice Cube’s single “It Was a Good Day.”

The rapper-turned-podcaster urged Logic to retire on an episode of the Joe Budden Podcast. The former Slaughterhouse member revisited his past criticism of Logic in reaction to the Ice Cube cover, which dropped on Monday (March 6).

“Logic, I beg of you, I’m pleading with you – please join me in retirement,” Joe Budden said. “Never step near a recording device again. Throw your phone in the ocean. Be allergic to microphones. Promise your fans nothing. Don’t go to the studio ever again. You are the worst, yo. You are really, really bad. And then when we think he can’t get any worse, you have the bright idea of doing an Ice Cube flip.”

Joe Budden, who once called Logic one of the “worst rappers to ever grace a mic,” explained his beef with the Maryland native on his eponymous podcast. The retired rapper called Logic a panderer.

“Logic is just not himself,” Joe Budden said. “I just think that Logic should be himself. He panders to the Black community every other second. Well, that’s the problem with panderers is that they always gotta find something new to pander to.”

He continued, “I had a beef with him since he did that 1-800 mental health number s###. I thought that was disgusting, but I could have been wrong. But ever since then, all of that Martin Luther King, ‘We Have a Dream,’ freedom fighter speech s### he be trying to do, I don’t buy it. Now, I can be wrong in that.”

Listen to Joe Budden’s comments about Logic below. The topic begins around the four-minute mark of the episode.

GloRilla Concert Fallout: Third Victim Dies After Crowd Stampede

A third woman died from injuries suffered in a crowd stampede at GloRilla’s concert in Rochester, New York.

According to multiple reports, 35-year-old Aisha Stephens passed away on Wednesday night (March 8). Stephens was hospitalized in critical condition after chaos erupted at GloRilla’s show on Sunday (March 5).

Two concertgoers died earlier week. A 33-year-old woman named Rhondesia Belton was pronounced dead on Monday morning (March 6). Police said a 35-year-old victim named Brandy Miller passed away later that evening.

Panic ensued when fans thought they heard gunshots at Rochester’s Main Street Armory on Sunday night. Several people were injured as concert attendees rushed to leave the venue, but police didn’t find any evidence of gunfire.

“The injuries appear to be as a result of a large crowd pushing towards the exits following accounts of individuals hearing what they believed to be gunshots,” Rochester police Lt. Nicholas Adams said.

GloRilla addressed the tragedy at her concert in a Twitter post on Monday.

“I am devastated & heartbroken over the tragic deaths that happened after Sunday’s show,” she wrote. “My fans mean the world to me. Praying for their families & for a speedy recovery of everyone affected.”

Police are still investigating the deadly crowd stampede.

Mike Epps Says He Carries A Gun Everywhere Because He Has Lots Of Money And Jewels On Him All The Time

Epps has apologized for carrying a loaded gun in his hand luggage at an airport.

Last week, the actor/comedian was stopped during a screening by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers at Indianapolis International Airport after they suspected his carry-on of containing a revolver loaded with four rounds of ammunition.

The gun was confiscated, but it remains unclear whether Epps will face charges.

In light of the news, “The Hangover” actor took to Instagram to post a video in which he apologized for his actions.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CpiegBEMhYa/?hl=en

“I want to give a shout-out to all my fans out there. I want to apologize if you’re seeing any negativity about a gun charge at the airport,” he began, before referencing his comedy show in the city the previous evening. “I had a long night. I had a show in my hometown, and I literally forgot that I had my pistol in my bag.”

Epps went on to offer an explanation as to why he carries a gun.

“If you want to know why I carry a gun, I carry money all the time. I be having jewelry on, and these dudes is out here robbing people. So, I just want to make sure I make it clear I ain’t out here doing nothing wrong. But I keep a gun on me ’cause I gotta protect myself. Sometimes I ain’t with my security,” the 52-year-old continued. “Just want to let y’all know that I’m still on some positive vibes. And sorry that it happened.”

Rapper Charlie Whop Allegedly Murdered In New Orleans Streets

New Orleans rapper Charlie Whop was murdered during a horrific shooting in Seventh Ward on Wednesday, Mar. 8.

The fatal shooting took place in the middle of the afternoon, around 4:30 p.m., on North Broad Street and St. Bernard Avenue, WDSU reported.

Police did not share the name of the person killed during the incident, but the “Magnolia Shorty” rapper’s identity was confirmed by a close friend and collaborator, Hot Boy Ronald, shortly after.

Fans have taken to social media to share their condolences.

Twitter user MarkelB wrote, “Rest up Charlie Whop 🙏🏾⚜️”

“Damn me & Charlie whop was cellys in OPP like 2yrs ago, real OG, I know whop f##### up!” another person tweeted.

One person said she accidentally found out that the rapper was dead, just randomly cruising through the city.

“Drove up on a murder scene today and just so happen its Charlie Whop, that was crazy,” Brandy Johnson wrote.

Following up her traumatic post with, “Rip Charlie Whop.”

The artist also had an impact on the community, particularly with kids when they did well. One person, who went by the name Khaotic Kell, wrote, “On break and see Charlie Whop got killed…. I remember getting rich off him every report card, and when I got the highest leap score at Edwards and all they gave me was a bike he gave me $500….”

AllHipHop.com sends its condolences to the family and friends of this Hip-Hop legend.

Jim Jones & Hitmaka Link For New Project, ‘Back In My Prime’

Rapper and Diplomat Capo, Jim Jones has dropped yet another album, the fourth one in a little over a year. His latest work “Back in My Prime,” is a collaborative effort with Hitmaka, the producer behind hit songs for Nicki Minaj, Gucci Mane, Lil Wayne, and more, and who has amassed over his career 75 million records sold.

The two linked up in Times Square to celebrate the release, entertaining celebrity guests like Fabolous, Maino, Neek Bucks, Ray Ray, and others.

Jim Jones said that Hitmaka is one of the “dopest producers” he knows.

“We had a helluva time recording this past year,” the Harlem native said. “From Miami to New York to LA [just] all over the country to record this.”

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Hitmaka chimed in, saying, “I  appreciate my Big Brother for allowing me the opportunity,” calling it “a dream come true.”

“To be like a younger guy and a watch the Dipset and the whole Jim Jones movement … just to be a part of the body of work…  That’s going to last forever.”

The producer continued saying, “It is gonna be super monumental with my career, and thank you, guys.”

As Hitmaka, whose former stage name was Yung Berg, started to end his remarks by saying, “Nobody’s hotter than me,” and maintaining he would kill anybody in a Verzuz matchup.

“Let’s just be clear,” he said. “It’s all through hard-working, God, and just having these relationships and being around all these great people.”

“Back in My Prime” has eight bangers and hits the streaming services on Friday, Mar. 10, and is being distributed through EMPIRE records.

Iggy Azalea Tells Fans No New Music Anytime Soon, She’s Busy Spending Her Money On Luxury Goods

The cyberworld lost their minds with Australian rapper Iggy Azalea launching her OnlyFans page at the top of the year. Sources have said within the first days of January 2023, she raked in millions on the app alone and so she’s decided to invest a whole lot of her attention into the enterprise—even dropping a video to get people to tune in.

https://twitter.com/IGGYAZALEA/status/1627487359188062209?s=20

Many thought the video was geared to promote new music.

One person asked, “When do you think Iggy is dropping the song?” and she replied, “I never said I was dropping a song babe. I just dropped a video advertising my onlyfans. Lollllllll.”

https://twitter.com/IGGYAZALEA/status/1627781501608767490?s=20

Another person asked, “Okay but… WE NEED THAT SONG.”

“Maybe one day I can’t promise anything tho! I haven’t actually started work on my album yet!” Iggy Azalea responded.

https://twitter.com/IGGYAZALEA/status/1627781739450974208?s=20

Her tone is a little different than a few weeks when someone tried to shame her for copping a brand new $661,185 Rolls-Royce Phantom.

The “Fancy” rapper tweeted, “Please stop making up things to appease others. I dislike that. Stop trying to justify what I do with my own body by making this about music. I’m spending the money on cars, and boats & diamonds. And I don’t feel badly about it either.”

https://twitter.com/IGGYAZALEA/status/1629365108173357057?s=20

The person tweeted her, “Probably not a smart financial purchase if you’re a rapper that has to start an OnlyFans to supplement your non-existent music income. But hey congratulations!”

She replied, “Baby. With love. I’ve done 70 sold-out arena shows with Pitbull in the last two years. I sold a portion of my masters for eight figures less than three months ago. I have the same wealth manager as George Clooney. And yes, an OnlyFans. You’re boring!”

https://twitter.com/IGGYAZALEA/status/1626487834080149504?s=20

The chart-topper is doing well for herself. According to Music Times, in the last 10 years since bursting on the American scene, she has earned a net worth of $15 million and that seems to be rising with each subscription.

Eminem Gets Shady With Real Housewives Stars & They Throw The Shade Right Back At Him

Rapper Eminem has told us he was the “real Slim Shady” for years, but that was until he met up with two Black women from Maryland!

Last month, on Valentine’s Day, the Detroit Rock and Roll Hall of Famer filed to block reality stars Gizelle Bryant and Robyn Dixon from registering their podcast “Reasonable Shady” with the United States Patent and Trademark Office, alleging it would confuse his audience and make people think he was somehow associated with their brand, AllHipHop.com reported.

His lawyers wrote in the filing, “[Robyn & Gizelle’s] mark REASONABLY SHADY, simply looks and sounds like SHADY and suggests that it represents the services of Mathers.”

“REASONABLY SHADY so resembles Opposer’s mark SLIM SHADY, SHADY, and the mark SHADY LIMITED in terms of appearance, sound and commercial impression as to be likely, when applied to [Robyn & Gizelle’s] goods, to cause confusion and mistake and to deceive,” the attorneys continued, according to RadarOnline.

Eminem, whose real name is Marshall Mathers, gave Bryant and Dixon a deadline of Sunday, Mar. 26 to respond.

They responded weeks before the date given by the “Lose Yourself” artist.

According to Page Six, Bryant and Dixon never got an “actual notice of [Eminem’s] prior rights in the names and marks Slim Shady, Shady, and Shady Limited before adopting and seeking to register.”

The Potomac duo also believes their podcast’s name is not “identical to” any of the properties that Eminem has used “shady” on.

Moreover, through their lawyers, they “admit that there is no relationship, authorization, or consent” between their company and his “regarding the marks at issue.”

Their attorney, Andrea Evans, said, “Robyn Dixon and Gizelle Bryant deny any likelihood of confusion between Mather’s trademarks and their Reasonably Shady mark.”

Eminem’s team is still pushing to have the trademark, which will allow the two women to legally sell merch for their show, to be blocked by the government.

The United States Patent and Trademark agency has not responded to the request or to either party throwing shade.

King ISO Tells A Huge Lie On “I’m Okay,” But Reveals Why In New Video

King ISO‘s “I’m Okay” reinforces how unique and special he is. The rapper’s latest single is the final song from his critically acclaimed debut Get Well Soon. A real spitter, King ISO has been one of the few rappers that has continued to extol the importance of mental health and wellness. 

“I’m Okay,” which also features King Kash, is probably the biggest lie men tell others and themselves. The video for the song offers a dual reality, one that exists outside of the individual and also within the person. He explained to AllHipHop exclusively why he felt this song needed visuals and what inspired him to do it.

King ISO: “I’m Okay”

He told AllHipHop, “With the song ‘I’m Okay.’ I felt it was super important to convey the message of all the people who smile through the day while really internally hurting. My best friend Sarah, before she was murdered, inspired me with her poetry when we were just teenagers when an entry she wrote expressed how she wears a mask everyday. 20 years later damn near I still do the same and so do many adults/young teens and children. This was something I felt the need to share with my listeners because I know so many feel the same. When I went into the creative process, I wrote and produced it with the intention of putting A-Wax on it. My partner King Kash happened to be at the house and heard me working on it and said ‘man I’d love to have a spot on that song!’,and A-Wax and I already had several songs done so I told Kash ‘have at it!’ It turned out amazing and now the listeners can have a dope visual as well!”

The Omaha-raised ISO has consistently stared at his personal demons without blinking. He has had to face his mental health, psychiatric illness, and his dark side unapologetically. There was a time when he was homeless until he checked himself into a mental facility. This lead to him earning a deal at Strange Music with Tech N9ne. The acclaim has caused him to lose sight of his beginnings and mission. Get Well Soon is a victory lap of sorts, an open letter to those still in the struggle. “I’m Okay” is truly a song we should like and share.

Lil Keed’s Posthumous ‘Keed Talk To ‘Em 2’ To Feature Young Thug, Big Sean, Lil GotIt & More

A new album by the late Raqhid “Lil Keed” Render will arrive on Friday, March 17. Keed Talk To ‘Em 2 will host a star-studded line-up of guest features.

Fellow Young Stoner Life Records roster members Young Thug, Dolly White, and Karlae contributed to the upcoming body of work. Keed’s brothers Lil Gotit and StickBaby will also appear on Keed Talk To ‘Em 2. In addition, the posthumous project will include NAV, Big Sean, Trippie Redd, KayCyy, and Fridayy.

Lil Keed’s daughter, Naychur Render, is an official executive producer for Keed Talk To ‘Em 2. Naychur’s grandmother first announced the studio LP with a personal, heartfelt note about her son.

Keed Talk To ‘Em 2 Official Tracklist

“On May 13, 2022, I lost my son Raqhid Render – who many of you knew as the artist Lil Keed. While this journey through the different phases of grief has been indescribably hard, a way that I have found to cope is through his music,” wrote Keed’s mother Tonnie Woods-Reed.

She added, “Right before his passing, Keed was hard at work at what would’ve been his highly anticipated next album Keed Talk To ‘Em 2. As much as he was a great father, son, and friend – he was also an artist who (thanks to many of you) lived and continues to live through his music.”

The Raqhid Render Estate released a music video for the “Long Way To Go” single on February 3. The Mikey Rare-directed visuals have amassed more than 1.3 million views on YouTube. Lil Keed’s “Long Way To Go” collected over 1.1 million streams on Spotify.

Prior to his death in 2022 at the age of 24, Lil Keed dropped the Long Live Mexico album in 2019 and the Trapped on Cleveland 3 album in 2020. His discography also contains mixtapes such as 2018’s Trapped on Cleveland and 2018’s Keed Talk to ‘Em.

Remy Ma Says Civilians Can Be Snitches

Yet another Hip Hop figure has shared her thoughts on individuals cooperating with the government in criminal cases. According to “All the Way Up” hitmaker Remy Ma, anyone who helps the authorities is a snitch.

Remy Ma and Tami Roman appeared on Power 105.1’s The Breakfast Club radio show to promote their forthcoming Lifetime movie Girl in the Closet. The interview also included Remy speaking on non-criminal witnesses.

“I don’t discriminate. There’s no, ‘Oh you’re a civilian.’ If you’re telling on someone, you’re telling. You’re cooperating. That’s just that,” said Remy Ma. “And I feel like a lot of times, people be like, ‘Well they’re a civilian.’ If you’re a civilian, stay hanging with civilians and be around civilians. Don’t be a civilian and hang out with people that are like that. Don’t do it.”

She added, “But then you try to justify what you did because ‘y’all know I wasn’t really like that.’ This is what y’all do and y’all in that line of work, keep these people that are really not built like that away from you because when the pressure’s on, they gonna fold. And I blame both parties. You shouldn’t have been hanging with them and you shouldn’t have had them around you.” 

However, Remy Ma also suggested that it was misguided for certain communities to teach young people that snitching was wrong. The 42-year-old mother stated, “You couldn’t show feelings. You couldn’t show emotions… That’s not how you really get through life. Once you see what the world really is like outside of the hood, outside of poverty, you don’t need to be like that. You can be vulnerable. You can express how you are.”

Remy Ma’s Comments Come After Allegations About Gunna Snitching On YSL

Chicago-bred rapper 600 Breezy recently argued Migos rapper Quavo will be labeled a snitch if he testifies against the man suspected of killing Takeoff in 2022. Quavo is the uncle of the late Migos member.

The conversation about snitching also became a trending topic following reports that Atlanta-based rap star Gunna pled guilty in a RICO case in Georgia. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis also indicted Fellow Young Stoner Life Recods representative Young Thug. Some critics accused Gunna of turning on his YSL boss. Gunna denies ratting out Thugger.

Remy Ma plays Patricia, the mother of 10-year-old Cameron, in the based-on-a-true-story Girl in the Closet. Tami Roman’s Aunt Mia character, a convicted murderer, accidentally becomes a foster parent for the young girl after Patricia suffers an aneurysm.

Previously, Remy Ma starred in the VH1 reality shows Love & Hip Hop: New York and Meet the Mackies. The Bronx native also acted in scripted series such as Queen of the South and Queens. She released her debut studio LP, There’s Something About Remy: Based on a True Story, in 2006.

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Mary J. Blige Announces Second Annual Strength Of A Woman Festival

R&B icon Mary J. Blige will bring her Strength of a Woman Festival and Summit back to Atlanta this May. The long-reigning Queen of Hip Hop Soul made the announcement on International Women’s Day.

An all-Black, all-female team will curate the Strength of a Woman Festival. In celebration of Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary, attendees will get to see Mary J. Blige run through rarely-performed hits as part of the “MJB B-Sides” set.

“I’m so excited to bring our Strength of a Woman Festival & Summit back to Atlanta for its second year,” said Mary J. Blige. “Having the opportunity to continue to uplift, inspire, and build amongst a community of women is the reason why we created this festival.”

Blige continued, “I’m so grateful for all of the support from our performers and participants and of course Live Nation Urban, Pepsi, and our additional partners who are committed to celebrating and creating community for Black women.”

Lauryn Hill Will Headline One Night Of The Strength Of A Woman Festival

Strength of a Woman will present an R&B night featuring a performance by the legendary Lauryn Hill of the Fugees. Additionally, Summer Walker, Lucky Daye, Muni Long, and other acts will hit that stage for the special showcase of the Rhythm & Blues genre.

The 2023 Strength of a Woman Festival & Summit lineup also includes Jodeci, Jeezy, Busta Rhymes, Method Man, Jadakiss, and more. Mike Epps will headline the comedy show. The live podcast portion of the event encompasses Angela Yee’s Lip Service.

Nicole Jackson, Vice President of MJB Inc., partnered with Mary J. Blige to organize this year’s Strength of a Woman. Ashaunna Ayars of The Ayars Agency will lead initiatives designed to empower women of the BIPOC community.

Mary J. Blige & Fellow Organizers Believe They’re Filling A Void In The Festival Space

“The popularity and impact of the inaugural Strength of a Woman Festival & Summit successfully showed how and why Black women are the blueprint for cultural relevancy and inclusion,” stated Nicole Jackson.

She added, “Being able to look back and see the global reach the festival had through our livestream and billions of media impressions is confirmation that we are filling a void in the festival space. Mary, Ashaunna, and myself are overjoyed to be back in Atlanta again and look forward to continued expansion in our programming and partnerships.”

Mary J. Blige’s 2023 Strength of a Woman Festival & Summit takes place May 11-14 in Atlanta’s State Farm Arena. General tickets go on-sale beginning Friday, March 10 at 10 am ET. To purchase tickets visit soawfestival.com.

Ex-Apple Music Exec Larry Jackson Launches Gamma Company Featuring Usher, Rick Ross & Snoop Dogg

Larry Jackson served as Apple Music’s Global Creative Director for seven years. The music industry insider has now launched Gamma. The multimedia platform features music stars like Usher and Rick Ross on the roster.

According to a press release, Larry Jackson’s Gamma will have reach into music, films, merchandise, fashion, web3, and more. Apple Inc. is partnering with Jackson and other companies to support the new endeavor.

We’re excited to see Larry’s vision come to life with Gamma,” said Oliver Schusser, Vice President of Apple Music. “We’re always looking for new ways to support creators, and we can’t wait to see what talent across music, video, podcasts, and more dream up.”

Gamma also received financial backing from Todd Boehly’s Eldridge Industries and film distributor A24. The new company is headquartered in Los Angeles with offices in New York and London. Key initiatives for the startup already include Snoop Dogg and his Death Row catalog.

Larry Jackson Says Gamma Will Help Artists Connect With Their Fans

“The power of intellectual property and creative expression cannot be contained to any one format,” stated Larry Jackson. “The artists shaping today’s culture not only create music, but also video, film, podcasts, fashion, and more. They shouldn’t have to jump through multiple hoops to express themselves.”

Jackson continued, “Gamma is built with the flexibility and aptitude that creators need to connect with fans on all formats and across all channels – with transparency and no restriction.”

Gamma’s leadership team consists of Larry Jackson as Co-Founder/CEO and Ike Youssef as Co-Founder/President. In addition, Scott Seviour (Chief Marketing Officer), Nathalie Besharat (EVP of Content Operations), and Breyon Prescott (EVP of Content and Music) work for the company.

“We are a progressive media company powered by the best-in-class content distribution and analytics software by way of our Vydia acquisition. And central to its core, gamma is an ideas company,” Jackson also added.

Nick Cannon Reveals ‘Who’s Having My Baby?’ Is Part Of ‘Celebrity Prank Wars’ Show 

Many media outlets and social media users fell for a practical joke pulled off by Nick Cannon and Kevin Hart. The two comedians had a lot of people believing they created a game show called Who’s Having My Baby?

It turns out Who’s Having My Baby? is just part of another television program. Wild ‘N Out creator Nick Cannon and Ride Along star Kevin Hart teamed up for the forthcoming Celebrity Prank Wars.

“Gotcha!!!! Who’s Having My Baby” was definitely a prank, y’all, but #CelebrityPrankWars is our real show! 🤣 Tap into the premiere [on] April 6th on @eentertainment! @kevinhart4real,” wrote Nick Cannon on Instagram.

Kevin Hart posted on his own Instagram page, “Ok so… Who’s Having My Baby? was a prank, but #CelebrityPrankWars is our real show! 🤣 Catch the premiere April 6th on @eentertainment!”

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Both Real Husbands of Hollywood actors have pranked each other in the past. In July 2021, Nick Cannon gave Kevin Hart a lama as a gag gift for his birthday. In retaliation, Hart posted Cannon’s phone number on billboards. The antics battle raged on from there.

Nick Cannon has a long history of working in television. He currently hosts The Masked Singer reality competition show on Fox. Prior to that gig, Cannon got his start as a cast member on Nickelodeon’s All That.

The 42-year-old entertainer briefly hosted his own syndicated daytime talk show from 2021 to 2022. Kevin Hart served as the first guest on The Nick Cannon Show when it premiered in September 2021.

Lizzo Says Transphobia Appears “Rooted In Racism”  

Lizzo is speaking up for marginalized groups urging people to get to the root of understanding why bigotry exists.  

She took to Twitter on Wednesday (Mar. 8), offering her views on eradicating discrimination of all forms.  

“Transphobia is lookin real rooted in racism right about now…” Lizzo wrote. “I’ve never heard a person say why they’re racist… Or fatphobic.. I’ve never heard a reason why someone is transphobic. I think if we knew ‘why’ these people felt this way there would [be] way less support for these ideals. Because the ‘why’ is more insidious than we realize.” 

In a follow-up tweet, Lizzo explained she doesn’t care to hear any reasons for bigoted behavior. Instead, she suggested people would do more to tackle prejudice if they knew more about it.  

“Don’t get it twisted—I don’t care why people are bigoted. That’s a waste of my imagination,” Lizzo added. “I feel like there’s a lot of complicit silence and apathetic participation going on that wouldn’t fly if people knew more.” 

Earlier this week, the Yitty founder used her platform to speak out against the return of Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. The lingerie giant recently announced the revival of its annual fashion show after a four-year hiatus. The brand scrapped the fashion in 2019 after criticism that it only hired super-skinny runway supermodels. 

“This is a win for inclusivity for inclusivity’s sake,” Lizzo wrote while quote tweeting a teaser video for the upcoming fashion show. “But if brands start doing this only because they’ve received backlash then what happens when the ‘trends’ change again?” 

She also took aim at the people at the helm of such brands. “Do the CEOs of these companies value true inclusivity? Or do they just value money?” Lizzo questioned.