Ice Spice’s former friend Baby Storme exposed the rapper for badmouthing Nicki Minaj on Friday (May 3). Storme leaked Ice Spice’s text messages, revealing the Capitol Records artist’s true feelings about Nicki.
The texts showed Ice Spice getting frustrated with Nicki in May 2023. Nicki allegedly asked the rising star to sign over all publishing rights once they started working together.
“We’re about to put out another record in June for the Barbie soundtrack, which is an opportunity I brought her,” Ice Spice wrote. “Bc Barbie asked me to do it alone but since that’s her brand I invited her on & she doesn’t even see that as me bringing her something. She’s kinda like my mom, ungrateful & delusional. I cut her off btw not speaking to her till January.”
She added, “She wants publishing from all my songs including 3rd party writing competitions. So anything I write for other ppl or any songs I get on. Mind u I had a Taylor Swfit collab before I had the Nicki one.”
Storme noted how Nicki came up in a different era and probably thought there was nothing wrong with her demands. Ice Spice agreed and believed Nicki was “jealous” the 24-year-old rapper owned her masters.
“That’s basically what she’s saying bc she keeps saying oh when Wayne was signing me I didn’t question blah blah,” Ice Spice wrote. “But me & her are in different places in our career when that happened. Like I’m already signed so why would I work backwards & nah it’s just necessary like she gaslights me too much. I gotta love her from a distance for my mental health.”
Ice Spice and Nicki’s first collaboration was the “Princess Diana” remix, which dropped in April 2023. The two followed it up with “Barbie World” in June 2023.
Oh wait there’s more! You’re welcome Barbz! 😍 Hope everyone has a good day! 😍🥰 pic.twitter.com/DAjvWECp4s
Sonny Digital appears to feel blindsided by Create Music Group (CMG) signee GloRilla.
The “Wanna Be” rapper ruffled feathers on Twitter (X) earlier this week after suggesting she has an issue with the current landscape producers have crafted. In a brief remark, she appeared to write off the creativity of multiple generation’s of producers in one-fell-swoop, writing, “It’s a drought on good beats.”
Producer extraordinaire Sonny Digital caught wind of the tweet and promptly took issue with Glo’s opinion. So much so he responded, “Just ain’t f###ing with the right producers,” in a quoted reply to her original tweet.
As if the disapproval from the “Same Damn TIme” hitmaker wasn’t enough, veteran producers Cardo and Metro Boomin also appeared to staunchly disagree with GloRilla. In fact, Cardo literally laughed the claim off whilst Metro responded, “lol crazy right.”
GloRilla’s most recent project, Ehhthang Ehhthang, included production contributions from the likes of d.a got that dope, Go Grizzly, Goliath Beatz and several others. In total, at least 19 producers received direct and co-production credits on the album. With that being said, is the all of the blame on GloRilla for being hasty, or her team for not scouting more seasoned producers?
50 Cent affirmed his commitment to Shreveport, Louisiana on Friday (May 3). The G-Unit boss responded to a Shreveport-Bossier Journal article questioning if 50 Cent was another person or business offering false hope to the city.
“Not only am I gonna do what I said Tony but the title wave of interest is gonna send people to invest,” 50 Cent wrote in an Instagram post directed at the story’s writer. “I’m not looking for capital just support. the plan is to create a community that thrives through creativity and innovation. I talk to Tyler technology is changing film and television production fast so we have to change faster to stay ahead of the curve.”
The article mentioned golf legend Jack Nicklaus and country star Kix Brooks as two celebrities who never lived up to their promises to bring business to the Shreveport area. Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux believed 50 Cent’s situation was much different.
“I think what happened with many of those other things is that people had great ideas of what to do with other people’s money, and other people’s money never showed up,” Mayor Arceneaux told the Journal. “The things he’s doing, he is doing with his own money. And he has the resources, He is a very successful businessman.”
50 Cent signed a 30-year lease for the former Millennium Studios, a property owned by the City of Shreveport. The facility became the new home of G-Unit Studios.
G-Unit Studios was just the beginning of 50 Cent’s vision for Shreveport. He bought several buildings with plans to bolster the city’s nightlife. The diamond-selling rapper also sought a facility known as Stageworks of Louisiana with hopes of making it a sports and entertainment venue.
50 Cent wanted to host professional boxing and MMA, among other events, at the venue. Government officials introduced an ordinance proposing another 30-year lease to him in April.
Hurricane Wisdom just might be the new hottest artist out of Florida—and he’s got some cosigns to back it up.
Born in Tallahassee but raised in Havana, Hurricane Wisdom creates heartfelt melodic pain music, with lyrics inspired by real life experiences. Whether he’s singing or rapping, the rising star is a true storyteller, who’s here to motivate the masses so that they too can turn their dreams into a reality—no matter what the circumstances.
“I’m just an artist, man,” he says. “I make music, that’s it. I’m from Havana, Florida. That’s all you really need to know, because my music speaks for itself. It’s gon’ tell you everything I’m not telling you about me.”
Hurricane Wisdom unveiled his standout project, Category 5: The Biggest, last year. In terms of new music, he has three tapes in the vault ready to drop as he works on perfecting his craft.
AllHipHop spoke with Hurricane Wisdom to discuss his roots in Florida, love for Rod Wave, his name, his cosigns and wanting to write songs for other artists.
AllHipHop: What is Havana, Florida like?
Hurricane Wisdom: It’s the country, about as country as you can get. You’ve got horses and stuff like that, but it’s more hogs, goats and pigs. Real country. You ain’t got no Walmart over there or nothing.
AllHipHop: Where did you shop?
Hurricane Wisdom: You go to Tallahassee. Everything’s over there. That’s the city.
AllHipHop: What was the moment you fell in love with Hip-Hop?
Hurricane Wisdom: I can’t say I fell in love with Hip-Hop, I fell in love with music in general. It had to be some time in high school. I want to say when s### first started going up, but it never really didn’t go up. I was always seeing progress. I’ve been loving this s###. This been my whole life.
AllHipHop: Do you have an artist that did it for you?
Hurricane Wisdom: Definitely Rod [Wave]. I tell everybody that. It’s always Rod Wave, man.
AllHipHop: You must be a baby.
Hurricane Wisdom: No. Hey, I just turned 20, so I don’t want no baby talk. I’m not a teenager no more, I’m feeling myself. I just turned 20 on April 5.
AllHipHop: What’d you do for your birthday?
Hurricane Wisdom: I didn’t do nothing. I just went fishing.
AllHipHop: What was the inspiration behind your name?
Hurricane Wisdom: See, my first name is Wisdom. When I was in high school, I started making music. But before I was even doing my little freestyles in high school, I had waves before my dreads. I told them folks Hurricane Wisdom coming through, because I had the waves up there. You don’t want to see me take off the durag, I might flood this b####. And it stuck. When I started making music, the girls would be in school like “oh my God, that’s Hurricane Wisdom?” On some funny s###, but it started going.
AllHipHop: How would you describe your sound?
Hurricane Wisdom: I really feel like I’m ahead of myself. ‘Cause the s### I be making, it’s not in one little category. I be making a whole bunch of s### forreal. From pop s### to Spanish songs, all types of s###. It’s really me.
AllHipHop: Talk about Rod Wave cosigning you.
Hurricane Wisdom: That happened so long ago, but I still f### with Rod. I f### with Rod heavy. Rod hit me up when I made “So Cold.” I don’t know if you was tapped into me then, but “So Cold” is an old ass song that I made. That was when I first really signed almost. I look back at that when I’ll be feeling discouraged, man that man Rod hit me up. That’s my favorite artist. I was not even in my prime, so that gotta mean something. There’s a lot of cosigns like that too, it’s not just Rod.
AllHipHop: What did he say?
Hurricane Wisdom: Rod hit me like “where you from? You hard, but you already knew that” type s###. He hit me up a couple times. The first time Rod hit me up, that’s when we threw the little cosign s### out to the blogs. The second time is when he was listening to “So Cold.” It’s not like he was listening it to promote it, nah the n#### knew the words to that s###. He knew that song word for word. I always f##### with Rod, definitely.
AllHipHop: Did that motivate you to go harder?
Hurricane Wisdom: Oh yeah. S### yeah, all my cosigns really.
NoCap is one of the realist n##### I ever met, I’m not gon’ lie to you. I swear, that’s a real dude right there.
AllHipHop: How’d NLE Choppa cosign you?
NLE, he just hit me up. I’ve been listening to “Real Me” all day, he hopped on the remix. There’s was no funny s###. He was going to get on that remix regardless. Sleepy Hollow wanted to hop onto “A.W.A (Attitude With Ass).”
AllHipHop: Did you say DeJ Loaf?
Yeah, she hit me a while back. Just fire emojis in my DMs. That’s it though, nothing too major.
AllHipHop: These are big artists though!
[Laughs] That’s why when they ask me who’s my favorite cosign, these are all folks I listen to. Every cosign I’ve had, these are folks I listen to. Talking about whole albums, whole playlists. Them type s####, so it really means something. That and producers too. One of my favorite producers that I’ve been listening to for a minute just hit me up like, “Yeah bro, you hard. I need to get you a pack, I’ma send you a pack.” S### like that, that’s it.
AllHipHop: What’s the best encounter you had with the fan?
Just recently, I lost a bet with my fans so I had to pay for lunch. He chose Subway. The dude that was working there, he was taking his time with the order, but he kept looking at me. He had an order before he rung us up. He was taking his time, he kept looking at me. By the time we got to the counter to ring up the meal, he said “are you Hurricane?” I’m like yeah. He said he can’t do too much because he’s at work, but he wanted a picture. But after that, he didn’t even charge me for the pizzas that I bought. He charged my friend, what I had bought my dawg. Just free food for me pretty much.
AllHipHop: Three things you need in the studio at all times?
I gotta have grabba, weed, papers. A light is optional, because somebody’s going to have a lighter there. That’s really it. I don’t want to be that simple, but I’ma say me, engineer, and my phone. That’s it.
AllHipHop: Your last project is Category 5: The Biggest Hurricane, right?
Yeah, I think that’s the most recent. I be having so much s###. I got three tapes waiting for y’all.
AllHipHop: Are you doing this independently?
Umm, nah. I wouldn’t say independent, it’s an independent record label, Rebel Music and Open Shift distro. I got a whole bunch of s###.
AllHipHop: Any goals for yourself?
I want to write. I don’t plan on being an artist for too long. I’ll do it, but I’d rather get my foot in the door and make folks hits. That’s really where my head’s at, because there’s so much more to music than just being the artist. People don’t understand that. You got producing, you got directing. You got the cameramen, the videographers. You got the people that publish it. It’s all type of… you could have a whole label out this b####. I plan on writing for folks, because I’m already doing that.
AllHipHop: Damn, you want to write songs?
Yeah, I feel like that’s the way to go. I be having a lot of s###, I just know all this s### is not going to get dropped. That’s what a lot of artists do too. Even artists that still make s###, they do that too. I don’t gotta leave the rap game and just write, but that’s what I’ma mellow out with.
AllHipHop: Anything else you want to let the people know?
I love my fans man, that’s it. And deluxe on the way. I don’t know if I‘ma make it an acoustic deluxe, or if we’re just throwing old s### from Instagram that blew up, that I didn’t get to drop for my fans. But deluxe is definitely on the way. Follow me on Instagram.
Drake’s foe Rick Ross thoroughly enjoyed Kendrick Lamar’s new diss track “6:16 in LA,” which dropped on Friday (May 3). Rozay reposted various reactions to the song on social media.
One post featured a user noting how Kendrick proved they should be “hating harder,” which put a smile on Ross’ face. Ross also joked about Drake’s pal Zack Bia, a DJ/promoter mentioned on Kendrick’s latest diss track.
“You playing dirty with propaganda, it blow up on ya/You’re playing nerdy with Zack Bia and Twitter bots/But your reality can’t hide behind Wi-Fi/Your lil’ memes is losing steam, they figured you out/The forced opinions is not convincing, y’all need a new route/It’s time that you look around on who’s around you/Before you figure that you’re not alone, ask what Mike would do,” Kendrick rapped.
Rozay referred to Drake and Bia as “Hall and Oates” in an Instagram comment.
Kendrick’s “6:16 in LA” was his second Drake diss track released this week. K. Dot dropped “euphoria” on Tuesday (April 30). Ross advised Drake to bow out of the battle after listening to “euphoria.”
“Look, white boy, I know we not friends,” Ross told Drake. “But lemme give you this advice ‘cause you ain’t got nobody ‘round you. Or you ain’t got no real n##### ‘round you. Lemme just put it like that. Ain’t no real n#####. Stop! Don’t respond. You ain’t even peep when the intro came on with the Teddy Pendergrass. That was that Black vibe.”
He added, “Don’t do it. Don’t go write an eight-minute verse that—I know, n####. [Lil] Yachty, I know you want to get that money. You ain’t wrong, n####. Keep buying them big houses. But I’ma tell you this like a real n####. Ain’t no more BBLs. Ain’t no more ass fillers. Ain’t no more cheek fillers.”
Kendrick Lamar returned with a second diss track aimed at Drake on Friday morning (May 3). Titled “6:16 In LA,” the lyrical beating continued the tongue-lashing he unleashed on “euphoria” just three days ago. The new song included several bars suggesting Drake’s OVO Sound camp is disloyal and, at one point, he surmises Drake must be “a horrible person.”
The single art, which is a photo of a black glove with a Maybach logo laying on a table, seems to signal “the gloves are off,” especially since he discovered Drake allegedly tried to pay people to dig up dirt on Kendrick Lamar but came up empty handed.
“Are you finally ready to play have-you-ever? Let’s see,” he raps. “Have you ever thought that OVO is workin’ for me?/Fake bully, I hate bullies, you must be a terrible person/Everyone inside your team is whispering that you deserve it/Can’t toosie slide up outta this one, it’s just gon’ resurface/Every dog gotta have his day, now live in your purpose
“It was fun until you started to put money in the streets/Then lost money ’cause they came back with no receipts/I’m sorry that I live a boring life, I love peace/But war-ready if the world is ready to see you bleed.”
Drake has done little to respond aside from posting a clip of the film 10 Things I Hate About You to his Instagram Stories. The clip is a clear reference to Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics on “euphoria.” But on Tuesday (April 30), just hours after Lamar released the song, he suggested he’s readying a response,
The Republic Records signee made a surprise appearance at Nicki Minaj’s tour stop in Toronto, where the Young Money duo performed “Needle.” As he left the stage, he told the crowd, “I love you so much. You know what time it is. You know what I got to do.”
Meanwhile, “euphoria” continues to dominate streaming services. The song is currently No. 1 at Spotify U.S. and Apple Music.
Rap fans weren’t necessarily anticipating another round from Kendrick Lamar so quickly, so the surprise element only added to its virality. The song spread like wildfire across social media platforms and Twitter, of course, blew up with memes. Find some of the best below.
Kendrick slapping this n#### around before people can even get situated at work pic.twitter.com/KFqdApsiJy
Kendrick Lamar just did a Back-to-Back on Drake.
With a Black Maybach glove as the cover.
With a title similar to Drake timestamps in whatever country or state.
And then questions OVO loyalty to Drake…
He REALLY might despise this man : pic.twitter.com/8NC380alVf
What is the immediate future of Drake in light of Kendrick Lamar’s new diss song, “6:16 in LA?” While the question looms, it’s now time to discuss the context surrounding these two artists. Drake hails from Canada, where he’s risen to global sensation status, while Kendrick Lamar represents Compton, a city that has deep roots in Hip-Hop culture.
Drake’s decision to engage with K. Dot on this lyrical level deserves acknowledgment. He didn’t have to take it there, and I give him credit for that. With J. Cole apologizing and walking away from the battle, Drake’s willingness to step up demonstrates commitment to the culture—on some level. We all know Drake’s journey into Hip-Hop wasn’t rooted in the essence. He grew into it, learned it and was embraced. Hip-Hop gives most people a shot if they’re genuine.
In facing Kendrick Lamar, Drake faces a unique challenge. This is a career-defining moment. Kendrick’s style is dense, layered and thought-provoking. In contrast, Drake is more commercial and takes a broader approach to it. Drake’s path forward lies in his ability to create hit songs that resonate with his audience on a visceral level. He has to out-swagger K. Dot (if that’s even possible). If Drake does what he needs to do, which is super serve his audience, he can actually get right back to where he needs to be.
Drake won’t be converting Kendrick Lamar’s devoted fanbase anytime soon, and he doesn’t need to. This is lyrical warfare. Instead, his focus should be on crafting music that speaks to his audience and the general population. Kendrick Lamar’s Al Green sample on “6:16 in LA” reflects a specific aesthetic that may not align with current rap trends, where sampling is damn near illegal. (By the way, Al Green entered the chat.)
As the ball rests firmly in Drake’s court, the question remains: What will he do next? The answer lies in his ability to adapt, innovate and continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Only time will tell if Drake can rise to the challenge and reaffirm his status as a global superstar.
Many social media users have credited Katt Williams with instigating the celebrity turbulence that has taken over 2024. His no-holds-barred interview on Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay broke the internet after Williams threw direct shots at some of his comedy peers.
Fans of Katt Williams will have the chance to see the stand-up comic share some of his possible hot-button takes once again. This time, the 52-year-old Friday After Next star will perform the comedy special, Woke Foke, as part of Netflix Is a Joke Fest.
Woke Foke will stream live on Netflix on Saturday, May 4 at 10 pm ET/ 7 pm PT. The show takes place at the YouTube Theater in Inglewood, California. Woke Foke follows Chris Rock: Selective Outrage as Netflix’s second live stand-up comedy special.
Katt Williams already has two comedy specials with Netflix. Previously, the Ohio native presented 2018’s Great America and 2022’s World War III on the video streaming service. His catalog also includes shows such as American Hustle, It’s Pimpin’ Pimpin‘ and Kattpacalypse.
During his Club Shay Shay podcast appearance, Kevin Williams dissed fellow comedians Kevin Hart,Rickey Smiley, Steve Harvey, Cedric The Entertainer, Michael Blackson and others. The full video for Williams’ explosive sitdown with Shannon Sharpe has amassed more than 68 million views on YouTube.
Underground hip-hop artists are lowkey the mavens when it comes to merch game tactics. They’ve got this uncanny knack for turning simple tees, hoodies, and caps into symbols of street cred and community. But it’s not just about slapping a logo on anything that moves.
These artists are storytellers, and every piece of merch is like a page out of their personal diaries, shared with fans who vibe on the same frequency.
This isn’t just commerce; it’s culture, connection, and a dash of rebellion, all stitched together in fabric. Stick around as we break down how these creative powerhouses school the rest on making merch that’s more than just wearables – it’s wearable art.
Digging into Merchandise Madness
Alright, we’re about to deep-dive into the whirlwind world of merch madness, where creativity meets cotton and beyond. Get ready to peep at how gear becomes gold in the underground hip-hop universe.
Overview of the Resurgence of Physical Goods
In the digital age, where playlists trump CDs and streams rule the airwaves, there’s a crazy resurgence of people craving tangible connections.
Fans are hungry for something more than just a streaming link. They want to touch, feel and sport the identity of the artists they admire.
Merch is the bridge that connects these digital avatars and real-world aficionados, offering a piece of the artist’s soul to carry around – literally!
Types of Merchandise Utilized by Underground Hip-Hop Artists
From exclusive vinyl prints that double up as artwork to those snapbacks declaring unrivaled beats, underground hip-hop artists have gone off the deep end with their merchandise creativity. We’re witnessing a beautiful madness of:
Apparel: Tees, hoodies, caps, and socks – if you can wear them, it’s fair game.
Collectibles: Limited edition prints, vinyl, and even action figures are getting into the mix.
Household Items: Ever want a notepad to jot down your rhymes? Kitchen towels? Artists are making the everyday into their domains.
Tech Gadgets: From phone cases to USB sticks, anything goes.
And here’s the kicker – it isn’t just about slapping a logo on anything that moves. Each piece tells a story, a piece of the grind and hustle, making fans feel like they’re part of the crew, not just spectators.
It’s this personal touch that turns merch into more than just stuff; it’s a passport into the artist’s world, a token of being understood and seen. Plus, in a world of endless swipes and clicks, owning something you can actually hold means more than you might think.
6 key ways artists utilize merchandise for branding purposes
Merch isn’t just swag; it’s a strategic move. Underground hip-hop artists use it to etch their mark in fans’ lives, turning listeners into walking billboards of their brand.
From enhancing visibility and loyalty to creating exclusive collector’s dreams, merch does the heavy lifting in branding. This section digs into the 5 key strategies artists leverage merchandise for that unstoppable brand vibe.
1. Creating Brand Identity Through Unique Designs
Creating a standout brand identity in the underground hip-hop scene isn’t just about the beats; it’s about how you present your vibe to the world.
Custom stickers are the ultimate game-changer in this arena. They’re not just stickers; they’re little ambassadors of your brand’s soul. Slap them on anything from laptops to street lamps, and voila, ordinary items now carry your unique signature.
The beauty? With Canva-made customizable stickers, your creativity knows no bounds – design them with your logo, lyrics, or anything that screams ‘you’. It’s affordable, effective, and adds a personal touch that fans can’t get enough of.
2. Establishing a Connection with Fans
Merch does more than just make a fashion statement; it’s like a secret handshake between you and your fans. Picture this: someone rocking your limited-edition tee at a concert or flaunting a custom phone case in their daily grind.
It’s these moments that forge a deeper connection, transforming fans into a tight-knit community. They’re not just buying merch; they’re buying into a lifestyle, a piece of the underground hip-hop ethos you’re spinning.
This shared identity not only boosts your visibility but turns casual listeners into loyal advocates, effectively spreading your beat far and wide with a personal touch.
3. Leveraging Merch for Promotion and Marketing
Think of merch as your silent hype man, always out there repping you. It’s like every tee, hat, or sticker is a billboard that walks, talks, and jams to your music.
Get creative with giveaways, collaborations, and exclusive drops. Leverage every piece as a chance to amplify your brand, turning your swag into a story that everyone wants to be part of.
4. Diversifying Revenue Streams
Don’t put all your royalties in one basket. Merch can become a significant revenue stream if done right. Balance your product offerings to suit different fan budgets and lifestyles. The more diversified, the more you’re building a self-contained world ready for exploration.
5. Strengthening Brand Presence at Live Events
Live gigs are the church and merchandise is the offering plate. Give your fans a chance to take a piece of your performance home with them. This isn’t just swag; it’s a memory, a conversation starter, and a memento of an experience they want to relive.
6. Engaging Fans Through Limited Edition and Collaborative Merch
Nothing says ‘Valuable’ like ‘Limited Edition.’ Fans will scramble over each other for that one-of-a-kind piece of your legacy. And when you collaborate with artists or brands outside your usual circle, you bring new energy to your scene, gaining new eyes and ears along the way.
The Final Verse
You see, merchandise isn’t just about making that dollar. It’s the testimony of your grind, the anthem to your art. It’s about telling the world that you ain’t just another MC; you’re building a universe worth immersing in.
Underground hip-hop artists have mastered the art of merch; it’s become as instrumental to their careers as a pen to a pad. They’ve turned their logos into legacies, and their fans? They’ve become lifelong marketers. It’s a beautiful exchange, a give-and-take at its very core.
So, whether you’re an aspiring artist or a fan who keeps the scene alive, remember this crisp piece of advice. In a world saturated with hits and hooks, sometimes it’s the stitching on your cap or the print on your shirt that keeps the rhythm of your fandom beating strong. And that, my friends, is how the underground keeps it not just real, but radically rocking the merch.
Kendrick Lamar took the rap community by surprise on Friday (May 3), when he dropped another Drake diss titled “6:16 In LA” on his Instagram page. “6:16 In LA” arrived three days after his first proper Drake diss, “euphoria,” hit the internet on Tuesday (April 30).
The track’s title plays off of the OVO leader’s well-known timestamp songs such as “5AM in Toronto” and “8am in Charlotte.” On “6:16 In LA,” Lamar implies Drake has multiple moles in his camp.
“Are you finally ready to play Have You Ever? Let’s see,” he spits. “Have you ever thought that OVO was working for me?/ Fake bully, I hate bullies, you must be a terrible person/ Everyone inside your team’s whispering that you deserve it.”
The discourse between Kendrick Lamar and Drake kicked off in March with the release of Future & Metro Boomin’s “Like That” single, which featured a scathing verse from K. Dot. The track evidently caught the attention of Drake, who fired back with “Push Ups (Drop & Give Me 50)” and “Taylor Made Freestyle.”
Now it’s Drake’s move once again. Find “6:16 In LA” below.
Beyoncé continues to cement her name in history. The Le Petit Larousse Illustré encyclopedic dictionary will also immortalize the 32-time Grammy Award winner.
According to reports, Beyoncé has been added to the French-language reference source. She was among 40 people included as 2024 entries for Le Petit Larousse, alongside celebrities such as LeBron James and Christopher Nolan.
Beyoncé’s mother, Celestine “Tina” Beyoncé Knowles-Lawson, has Louisiana Creole heritage. That ethnic group has a close connection to the French language. Knowles-Lawson’s father’s birth name was Lumis Albert Beyincé.
“My daddy Alabama, momma Louisiana. You mix that negro with that Creole, make a Texas bama,” Bey sang on her 2016 single “Formation” off the Lemonade LP. “Formation” peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
2024 has been another monumental year for Queen Bey. Her country music-coded Cowboy Carter studio album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart with 407,000 first-week units. The “Texas Hold ‘Em” also single hit No. 1.
The inclusion of Beyoncé in Le Petit Larousse Illustré sparked a response from the America-based reference book publisher Merriam-Webster. The company quote-tweeted a post about Le Petit Larousse and added, “[Be right back] calling an emergency meeting.”
A lot of Hip-Hop figures have given their opinion about the ongoing feud between Drake and Kendrick Lamar. Roc-A-Fella Records co-founder Dame Dash has shared his thoughts on the clash too.
Kendrick Lamar’s “euphoria” lit the rap world on fire. The Compton-bred MC’s lyrical takedown of Drake has trended on social media for days and dominated streaming platforms.
Dame Dash decided to weigh in on K. Dot versus Drizzy while appearing on America Nu Network’s Chopping It Up show. The native New Yorker sided with Lamar after the latest round in the battle.
“He snuffed Drake. He swung on him and no one was expecting it,” Dash stated about Kendrick Lamar’s diss track. “In boxing, if you don’t see a punch coming, pause, that’s what will knock you out.”
Dame Dash also said, “When I first heard it, I didn’t like it. Like when I first was listening to it, but then I started hearing the words and what he was doing, I was like, ‘Nah, this s### is kinda ill.”
During his days with Roc-A-Fella Records, Dash had an up-close view of two Hip-Hop GOAT contenders going to war. Fellow Roc founding father Jay-Z’s clash with Nas went public in 2001.
While Dame Dash gave Kendrick Lamar his flowers for the “euphoria” record, former Roc-A-Fella artist Cam’ron has taken the opposing side. The It Is What It Is podcaster declared Drake the winner.
Mariah The Scientist has been accused of attacking a woman at Atlanta’s Cavo Kitchen & Cocktails lounge on March 28. Local police arrested the 26-year-old singer born Mariah Amani Buckles.
According to reports, Cleopatra Dues claimed Mariah The Scientist grabbed her by the wig unprovoked. The woman also allegedly suffered minor scratches on her feet.
Authorities took Buckles into custody on May 1 and charged her with battery and simple battery. The To Be Eaten Alive album creator exited the Fulton County jail later that day on bond.
Mariah The Scientist has released numerous songs, including 2020’s “Always n Forever” featuring Lil Baby. Additionally, she appeared on projects by YoungBoy Never Broke Again and 21 Savage.
The former St. John’s University student also became headline news for dating currently incarcerated rapper Jeffery “Young Thug” Williams. The YSL leader faces RICO-related charges in Georgia.
“It’s almost like jail solidified our relationship,” Mariah The Scientist stated in October 2023. “I’m willing to wait it out because I feel like he’s the one. If I didn’t really see that in him, I probably wouldn’t.”
Willow Smith is reflecting on being the child of famous parents and the insecurities that come with being labeled a “nepo baby,” a notion she rejects for multiple reasons.
As the daughter of Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, Willow has carved out her own lane as a musician with an eclectic style. However, she still feels pressure to defy the nepotism stigma which leads to negative thoughts.
Willow Smith Believes She’d Still be “A Weirdo” Without Famous Parents
During an interview with Allure, Willow explained she hears voices telling her she’s a fraud who will never be good enough and only has a career because of her famous family.
However, Willow understands “I’m wrongly internalizing the negativity from the outside,” and sees beyond her insecurities. “Even if my parents weren’t who they were, I would still be a weirdo and a crazy thinker,’ she added.
Furthermore, Willow believes the “nepo baby” stigma motivated her to work even harder although she now feels she has nothing to prove.
Ultimately, Willow Smith rejects nepotism allegations because being a Black woman in America doesn’t allow for exemptions. She recounted past experiences where people treated her like she didn’t belong, even when her picture hung on their walls. Willow acknowledged her privileged position but added that Blackness is a unifying factor.
“Being Black in America, even with privilege, which I’m never going to deny that I have, you’re still Black,” she explained.
“I love being Black,” Willow declared. ”People would look at me and [say], ‘Okay, well, her parents are this and this and that, but she still is like me. She still has brown skin.’ And we all know that that doesn’t exempt you from anything, and that’s a place of connection.”
Meanwhile, Willow Smith has had a few days. On Friday (May 3) the 24-year-old dropped her sixth solo studio album empathogen. Earlier this week, NPR shared Willow’s Tiny Desk Concert. Watch it below.
Chrisean Rock continues to stand beside her man during his incarceration, taking their son to Blueface’s latest court hearing.
The Compton native was jailed earlier this year for a probation violation and is reportedly behind bars until July. The controversial couple apparently reconciled shortly before Blue handed himself in and have been rebuilding their relationship while he’s been locked up.
On Tuesday (April 2), Blueface appeared in court and Chrisean Rock brought their baby son with her to the hearing. She took to Instagram after court revealing that the judge allowed Blue to hold Chrisean Rock Jr. For the first time in months.
“I stood in the back with the baby,” she said during an IG Live chat explaining the judge permitted her to stand there the last time she was in court. “So this time it was like a full circle. I could tell she noticed that my son got bigger or something because she looked at us, smiled.”
She continued, explaining the judge invited her to bring her son to Blueface, surprising them both. “He was just holding the baby, and I was just like holding him. I didn’t know if I should kiss him or what. I don’t know what I wasn’t allowed to do to him.”
Chrisean Rock then became overcome with emotion, breaking down after recounting how much Blueface’s appearance changed during his time in jail.
“I ain’t tryna come on here crying and s### but I miss my baby daddy. Y’all can call it jail talk, call it whatever … We past that,” Rock stated.
Meanwhile, Chrisean Rock is gearing up for a big day this weekend. She plays her first football game as running back for The Cali War on Saturday May 4.
Cardi B declared that “men are dogs” and will mate with anybody put in front of them.
The “Like What” hitmaker took to Instagram Live on Thursday (April 2) to share her take on dating.
“I believe that men are dogs,” Cardi B began before explaining why men aren’t compared to other animals. According to Cardi, the comparison is justified because dogs are not exclusive and will mate with other breeds.
“Because let me tell you about a dog. A dog f#### anything. He could be a pitbull and he’s going to f### chihuahua. Real life dogs, you could put them in a cage with any type of animal and they’re going to f### all of them. That’s why men get compared to dogs because they just don’t give a f###.”
However, Cardi B placed the onus on women for putting up with it. “I can’t even be mad at the men,’ she added. “But us women … like what are we doing?”
Cardi B’s comments come amid rumors she and husband Offset have reconciled. The couple announced their separation last year following months of cheating rumors. However, since then they have been frequently spotted together.
Earlier this week fans speculated the Hip-hop supercouple rekindled their romance. They enjoyed a courtside date watching the New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden.
Cardi B Claims ” Y’all Need Shaming”
Meanwhile Cardi B’s “men are dogs” conversation stemmed from her reaction to an episode of popular YouTube series 20 vs. 1. The show featured rapper JP screening 20 potential dates. A clip went viral after one of the contestants had a very intimate encounter with JP during taping.
“Y’all didn’t even have a real conversation with each other, and you just ate his dick in the afternoon,“ Cardi B stated.
She added that “A man gone’ be a man,” before turning to the women. Although she insisted, she’s not a “s### shamer,” she added, “y’all need some shaming.”
Cardi went on to point on, “STDs exist,” questioning whether JP used a condom during the NSFW incident. “I’m helping you from diseases,” she claimed. “I am helping you to stay healthy, so y’all need me.”
Meek Mill was ruthlessly mocked online after posting an Instagram selfie.
The Philly rapper has been subjected to a barrage of gay jokes and rumors following allegations in Lil Rod’s sexual assault lawsuit against Diddy and the social media slander continues.
On Thursday evening (May 2), Meek shared a photo of himself posted up against an SUV. However, fans ripped him for wearing a sheer shirt, mocking him in the comment section.
“The shirt ain’t helping the accusations,” wrote one person. Another added, “Philly lost twice in the same night,” referencing the Knicks eliminating Sixers in Game 6 of the playoffs.
Meanwhile, others claimed Meek Mill should never have posted the photo amid the Diddy rumors.
“I’m out here DEFENDING YOU N####!!! And you gone POST THIS?!?? Like wear da s###, I’m not mad… but post?!?? For n##### to misconstrue?!?!” a third person stated. “It’s like you dnt care and not even tryna help us help you. Aight g.”
However, Meek appeared unphased by the backlash, reacting on his Instagram Stories. “The propaganda don’t even want me wearing Rick lol,” he joked.
While Meek appeared unbothered by his critics this time, he’s had multiple outbursts over the gossip since Lil Rod’s allegations. The producer claimed Diddy had sexual relations with Meek Mill, among other men.
Last month, Meek explained that the rumors are affecting his children.
“I don’t believe no Diddy story once they lied about me now!” he wrote. “I don’t care but yall confusing my son he’s 12 with people saying his dad gay it’s sick.”
This is the moment many have been waiting for! Ghostface Killah and Nas on the same track – again. This isn’t the first time, but it has been a long time since these titans have shared a beat. This is the first opus under Mass Appeal Records thought and quite a start is it. The song is under 3 minutes, but we still get three verses from them, so listen up.
Termanology released his first album, Hood Politics, in 2003. Over the last 21 years, he’s remained diligent, dropping project after project. His latest, Time is Currency, arrived last week and marked his 50th effort (yes, 50th).
Boasting features from frequent collaborator Paul Wall, Kool G Rap, Ras Kass and Kota The Friend, among others, the 15-track album is a testament to his unwavering work ethic and commitment to the culture. But it also marks a significant milestone for Term.
“I have meticulously planned for this one to be special, knowing it would be my 50th project,” Termanology tells AllHipHop. “It was so well structured I purposely started the album saying. ‘I’m on album number 5-0, I make albums with my eyes closed.’
“One of my favorite things about this project is the cover art. The cover was handcrafted in pencil by an artist named Jason McKenzie, who submitted the drawing to me. It was the exact vision I had for the cover. My good friend and longtime collaborator Deezy took it and brought it to life. Time is Currency is definitely one of my favorite covers ever.”
Produced entirely by Nastee, the album is overflowing with Term’s signature boom bap flavor, accentuated by endlessly clever rhyme schemes and infectious hooks. One of his latest videos, “Uptown Fly” featuring Term’s new signee Nim K and Lord Sko, is unapologetically East Coast, complete with shots of the historic bridges and graffiti-splashed walls.
The YouTube clip has wracked up more than one million views since its release, a clear indication people still crave authentic Hip-Hop—not the watered down iteration being spoon-fed to the masses. Not to mention, Time is Currency landed at No. 1 on iTunes US Hip Hop/Rap Albums chart upon its release. Termanology shared the news on his Instagram, writing simply, “Thankful.”
Decades in, Term has a lot to be grateful for these days. His two collaborative albums with Paul Wall, Start 2 Finish (2022) and Start Finish, Repeat (2023), both smashed Spotify’s one million streams mark. And, like a fine wine, he just continues to get better with age. Find the album here and keep scrolling for his entire discography. All physical copies (CD/Vinyl) and downloads available via Bandcamp.
1.) Hood Politics (2003)
2.)Hood Politics II (2004)
3.) S.T.R.E.E.T. (2005)
4.) Hood Politics III: Unsigned Hype (2005)
5.) Out the Gate (2006)
6.) Hood Politics IV: Show And Prove (2006)
7.) Hood Politics V (2007)
8.) 50 Bodies (2007)
9.) ST. DA SQUAD (2008)
10.) Cameo King (2008)
11.) Politics As Usual (2008)
12.) 50 Bodies II (2008)
13.) If Heaven was a Mile Away (2009)
14.) Hood Politics VI: Time Machine (2009)
15.) 50 Bodies III (2010)
16.) 1982 (2010)
17.) 1982: The EP (2010)
18.) 1982: The Evening News (2010)
19.) Cameo King II (2011)
20.) S.T.R.E.E.T. (2011)
21.) 1982: 2012 (2012)
22.) 50 Bodies IV (2012)
23.) Fizzyology (2012)
24.) Hood Politics VII (2013)
25.) G.O.Y.A. (2013)
26.) Mas G.O.Y.A. (2014)
27.) ST. – Pages From The Pavement (2014)
28.) Shut Up And Rap (2014)
29.) 50 Bodies V (2015)
30.) Term Brady (2015)
31.) Cameo King III (2016)
32.) More Politics (2016)
33.) ST. da Squad – Self Titled (2017)
34.) Anti-Hero (2017)
35.) Bad Decisions (2018)
36.) STILL 1982 (2018)
37.) Set in Stone (2019)
38.) Vintage Horns (2019)
39.) 1982: The Quarantine (2020)
40.) 50 Bodies 6 (2020)
41.) Goya 3 (2021)
42.) 1982 The Summer EP (2021)
43.) 360 (2021)
44.) Start 2 Finish (2022)
45.) Determination (2022)
46.) Rapping with My Friends (2022)
47.) 50 Bodies 7 (2023)
48.) The Summer Pack (2023)
49.) Start, Finish, Repeat (2023)
50.) Time Is Currency (2024)
Coi Leray has set the record straight on her alleged issues with Nicki Minaj after issuing a rousing crusade against female rap beef on social media.
Days after expressing her earnest belief that female rap beef is personified by record labels and music streaming services to bolster profit margins, Leray further stood on business after a fan attempted to call her bluff.
In response to a tweet she previously shared in which Coi Leray wrote, “Most of these female rappers not even from the same places !!!! Not from the same hoods….why are we beefing,” a Twitter user replied in thread suggesting artists such as Leray use beef to align themselves with bigger artists.
“Most of them like you, do it to get Nicki Minaj support and then when she turns on you.. you don’t have support from any fan base,” the user, who’s handle is @Marleyday13, wrote in the tweet.
Leray swiftly responded, blocking the accusation she leveraged any issue she may have had with Minaj for clout, considering she reconciled with the Pink Friday 2 rapper behind closed doors.
“Me and Nicki spoke behind the scenes, personally, and I never brought that to the public,” she wrote. “Business ain’t work out, that’s okay. I still wish her nothing but the best and blick blick is one of the greatest videos that will be in history.”
If you’ll recall, Leray and Minaj collaborated on the aforementioned “Blick Blick” in March 2022, but not without there being some form of controversy being attached to the release. Prior to the single hitting DSP’s, Minaj denied working with Leray after Benzino boasted about the two’s supposed collaboration on Clubhouse.
