Karl Jordan Jr. and Ronald Washington, two of the men accused of killing Jam Master Jay in 2002, are currently being tried for first-degree murder. As the trial continues, more witnesses are being called to testify. In new court documents obtained by AllHipHop, an inmate named Yusuf Abdur-Rahman is being asked by United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Breon Peace and Assistant United States Attorney Miranda Gonzalez to take the stand.
“The Court finds that the Application is made in good faith and that there is a reasonable belief that the requested relief is necessary to secure the appearance of YUSUF ABDUR-RAHMAN for any future court appearances in connection with the above-referenced matter,” the docs read. “It is, therefore, ORDERED, pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1651, that the Bureau of Prisons, with 3 Case 1:20-cr-00305-LDH Document 249 Filed 02/07/24 Page 1 of 2 PageID #: 1970assistance as necessary from the United States Marshals Service, or any federal officer, shall use any appropriate force to secure the appearance of YUSUF ABDUR-RAHMAN to appear for any court appearance in connection with the above-referenced matter.”
It’s signed with Wednesday’s date (February 7) by Honorable Lashann Dearcy Hall. Another inmate who happens to be Jordan’s son, Tashawn Burns, is also being requested to testify.
The Jam Master Jay murder trial began in January. Uriel Rincon, an eyewitness who was wounded in the 2002 shooting, identified Jordan as the gunman. Rincon said Washington stood by the door and ordered another witness to get on the ground during the attack. Jordan and Washington pleaded not guilty to murder charges. They face at least 20 years in prison if convicted.
A third man, Jay Bryant, was also charged for his alleged role in the murder. He will be tried separately.
CBD, short for Cannabidiol, has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits. While many are familiar with its pain-relieving and anxiety-reducing properties, it’s worth noting that some studies suggest it may also have a potential role in enhancing musical creativity and performance. As a musician, you might be intrigued by the potential ways in which CBD Capsules could benefit you. In the following comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the multifaceted role of CBD in musical creativity and performance, exploring its diverse benefits and offering valuable insights into its integration into your daily routine for an enhanced musical experience.
Performance anxiety is a prevalent challenge for numerous musicians, frequently resulting in stage fright and nervousness, which can substantially hinder their ability to perform at their best. However, CBD is a valuable tool in addressing performance anxiety by promoting a sense of calm, reducing stress levels, and helping individuals feel more centered and grounded. By incorporating CBD oil into their pre-performance routines, musicians can enhance their ability to manage composure and focus, ultimately enabling them to deliver stellar performances with heightened confidence and ease, leading to a more enriching experience for the musicians and their audience.
Improves Focus and Concentration
As a musician, maintaining a focused and clear mind is crucial for productive practice sessions and captivating performances. CBD, a compound derived from the cannabis plant, interacts with the endocannabinoid system in our body. Research has shown that it can promote a state of relaxation by influencing the release of neurotransmitters, which in turn can contribute to improved focus and concentration. This enhanced mental state ultimately leads to an enriched and more immersive musical experience for the performer and the audience. By creating a sense of calm and reducing anxiety, CBD can also help musicians overcome performance jitters and stage fright, allowing them to express themselves more freely and authentically. Additionally, the potential anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may aid in alleviating any physical tension or discomfort, further enhancing the overall musical performance.
Increases Creativity
Many musicians believe that CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, can help in increasing their creativity. By reducing anxiety and stress levels, CBD is thought to unlock a musician’s creative potential, allowing them to think outside the box and explore new musical dimensions. Additionally, the potential ability of CBD to improve focus and concentration may lead to more productive and immersive practice sessions, ultimately enhancing creativity during performances. Musicians also report that CBD can help promote a state of relaxation, which in turn can inspire innovative musical ideas and promote a more open mindset for experimentation and improvisation. Furthermore, some musicians find that CBD can positively impact their overall well-being, fostering a sense of balance and harmony that can be reflected in their music.
Musicians devote countless hours to practicing and performing, often leading to physical strain. This can manifest as muscle tension, stiffness, and fatigue, impacting their ability to perform at their best. Many musicians have turned to CBD to alleviate the toll on their bodies, known for its natural anti-inflammatory properties that can effectively reduce pain and inflammation. By incorporating CBD into their wellness routine, musicians can experience relief from conditions like joint pain or tendinitis, providing them with much-needed support to continue pursuing their passion for music. Additionally, CBD has been reported to help improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and aid in overall stress management, further contributing to musicians’ well-being and performance.
Better Sleep Quality
Quality sleep is crucial for musicians to excel in their performances. Establishing a healthy sleep routine that allows for ample rest and rejuvenation is paramount. Research suggests that CBD may offer potential benefits for sleep, as it has been shown to promote relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety levels, and contribute to better overall sleep quality. By incorporating high-quality CBD oil into their bedtime routine, musicians may experience improved sleep, enhancing performance and creativity on stage. This improved sleep quality could potentially result in a positive impact on their overall well-being and musical output.
Conclusion
CBD has the potential to revolutionize the way musicians approach their craft. CBD presents various advantages that can elevate musicians’ abilities to new heights by alleviating performance anxiety, reducing stress, and enhancing focus and concentration. Moreover, its potential to aid in managing pain and promoting relaxation can contribute to overall well-being, essential for sustained creativity and musical excellence. Nevertheless, it is crucial to seek advice from a healthcare professional before integrating CBD into your daily routine, particularly if you are currently taking medication or managing underlying health conditions. With a cautious and informed approach, CBD can significantly enhance your musical journey and propel you toward unprecedented levels of success.
Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay podcast emerged as an outlet for comedians to air their grievances. A month after Katt Williams’ viral appearance on the show, Mo’Nique took shots at Tiffany Haddish in an interview with Sharpe on Wednesday (February 7).
Mo’Nique brought up Haddish’s past legal issues, which included DUIs and a child sexual abuse lawsuit, in response to remarks from 2018. Mo’Nique defended her husband while bashing Haddish.
“I remember our beautiful sister Tiffany Haddish did an interview with GQ magazine,” Mo’Nique said. “And this, in my humble opinion, is where we keep throwing each other under the bus. You’re doing an interview with GQ magazine – and I’m assuming the journalist was a white person – and the conversation turned to Mo’Nique. And she said, ‘Well, I don’t do business like Mo’Nique do business. And I’m glad I don’t have that husband of hers.’ And when I saw that it’s like Tiffany, if you had a husband like mine, you may not have two DUIs.”
She continued, “If you had a husband like mine, you may not be caught up in what looks like you could’ve been grooming a child. And I say all of that with no judgment. But when you speak about having a husband like mine, you open up the door. And I’m saying to you, if you had one like mine, you may not sit in these positions that you can’t explain the next day.”
Haddish mentioned Mo’Nique’s husband while discussing Netflix in a 2018 interview with GQ. Haddish dismissed Mo’Nique’s call to boycott the streaming service.
“My business run different than her business,” Haddish said. “I don’t live her life. I don’t have that husband of hers. I’m looking at how [Netflix has] opened up so many opportunities for Black females and comedy. When my people are dying, that’s when you gonna catch me protesting. I’m not gonna protest because somebody got offered not the amount of money they wanted to get offered. If you don’t like what they’re offering you, just no longer do business with them.”
Haddish wasn’t the only celebrity to face Mo’Nique’s wrath in the chat with Sharpe. Tyler Perry and Oprah Winfrey were among the notable names spoken of in the Club Shay Shay interview.
Bill Maher and Kanye West? Let us go in, but approaching with caution. Maher had Kanye on his podcast “Club Random With Bill Maher” for a two hour conversation. But guess what? That episode is never seeing the light of day. Maher pulled the plug on airing it, but I am not sure why he did it to begin with.
Maher talked to TMZ and called t he rapper a “very charming antisemite” — WHAT? So, he’s just now realizing that? I think Kanye West got played. Maher maintains he does not want to offer any sort of platform for Yeezus to spread his disturbing views. Kanye’s done the most for the longest, including some unsettling, odd praise for Hitler. He told Alex Jones, “I like Hitler”! And he’s said more in the past.
Verbally, Maher made it clear he’s not about to let his platform be used for spreading what he called the “fertilizer.” HUH? Ineed to talk to him, because he knew what Kanye was all about. Kanye has apologized to the Jewish community, but right after he wore a t-shirt of a notorious Nordic racist and antisemite.
Maher is getting a lot of credit for doing something that should have never been an option to me. Anyway, God bless. Hate speech and antisemitism is not something anybody should take lightly, but…yeah…let me stop. By the way, Kanye is having trouble finding places to perform his looming tour. I wonder why.
The Detroit Pistons partnered with Royce Da 5’9 to create a capsule collection honoring Hip-Hop legend J Dilla. The NBA team announced the collaboration on J Dilla’s birthday (February 7).
J Dilla’s family gave their blessing to the Pistons. The team connected with his estate via the late producer’s longtime collaborator Frank Nitt.
“It has honestly been a long time coming,” J Dilla’s daughter Ja’Mya Yancey said. “I am just so glad that we were finally able to do something so major through the appropriate channels and highlight my dad in a way that was fun and exciting while respecting his estate at the same time.”
Royce Da 5’9 served as the art director for the J Dilla capsule. The former Slaughterhouse rapper appreciated the opportunity to contribute, noting how important honoring J Dilla was to the Detroit Hip-Hop scene.
“Dilla’s enduring legacy is a treasure that must be safeguarded at any expense,” Royce Da 5’9 said. “It is a great honor to be responsible for curating his likeness in this exclusive merchandise drop entrusted to me by his estate and the Pistons. This campaign holds major significance not just for myself, but also for the city of Detroit and the Hip-Hop community as a whole.”
J Dilla’s Pistons capsule will be released on March 13. Fans can purchase the merchandise at Pistons313Shop.com.
The Pistons will reveal images and product details for the items in the weeks leading up to the capsule’s release. The J Dilla merch drops on the same day the Pistons play the Toronto Raptors at Little Caesars Arena.
J Dilla passed away after battling thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and lupus in 2006. He was 32.
The influential producer received critical acclaim as a solo artist and member of Slum Village. He produced tracks for A Tribe Called Quest, Common, Busta Rhymes and many more.
Get to Know Kyla Moscovich, The Producer Behind Some Of Your Favorite Songs Including Victoria Monet’s “On My Mama”
Talented producer Kyla Moscovich (@kyla_moscovich) is someone to have on your radar. Kyla is a Grammy award-winning LA-based producer, trumpet player, songwriter, and arranger from NYC who has had a hand in creating some of the hottest hits in Hip-Hop/R&B today. Most notably, her contribution in production to Victoria Monet’s 2023 hit, “On My Mama,” as well as Jaguar II. Her recent work on the project has earned her a Grammy for ‘Best R&B Album’ at the 2024 awards.
“On My Mama” has gained notable recognition as it charted number 3 on Billboard’s US Rhythmic chart and has two nominations at the upcoming 66th Annual Grammy Awards. Nominations include Record of the Year, and Best R&B Song. Responsible for the instrumentation with the distinctive sound of horns on the record, Kyla shares, “As soon as she [Victoria Monet] said she wanted a club record, I knew the horns had to take it there with that HBCU sound.”
Kyla feels having a unique fingerprint is important when it comes to your sound. She’s mastered that by emphasizing the use of horns. Kyla ultimately describes her sound as being “warm like that hug you need after a long day.” Quite similar to her musical influences such as Roy Hargrove, Herbie Hancock, EWF, Michael Jackson, Kool & The Gang, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, Parliament Funkadelic, Tower of Power, and Ella Fitzgerald, Kyla’s sound truly has a way of captivating the listener.
Kyla’s passion stems from the power music holds to be able to heal and connect people and other cultures on a deeper level. That passion can be heard on the record. As Kyla puts it, “The creation of ‘On My Mama’ was something truly special and came at a time of uncertainty and it represents a lot more than just a fun record. At its core it really shines a light on the divine feminine power, and I feel extremely honored to have added some more woman energy to this record.”
Aside from her standout contributions to “On My Mama” and other tracks on Jaguar, Kyla has an impressive track record of producing for respected artists in the game. First time listeners should introduce themselves to songs she’s produced such as, “Phenomenal” by Janelle Monet, “Ass Like That” by Victoria Monet, and “For Your Eyes Only” by J.Cole.
As for what Kyla has planned for the future of her career, she plans to keep creating honest music, continue to build with other artists, and bring live instrumentation and arranging to the forefront of her sound. Kyla is always working, so fans can expect to hear new music coming out soon with Baby Rose, as well as look forward to Kyla releasing some of her own music.
Connect and stay in touch with Kyla Moscovich on social media @kyla_moscovich.
Quando Rondo’s legal woes got worse when he was busted for driving under the influence and reckless driving in Georgia on Tuesday (February 6). His latest arrest occurred while out on bond in state and federal cases.
The DUI and reckless driving charges were misdemeanors. Quando Rondo, whose real name is Tyquian Bowman, posted a $4,600 bond.
“Our overall comment on the incident is ‘no comment,'” Quando Rondo’s rep told the Savannah Morning News. “It’s an old incident and Mr. Bowman turned himself in compliant as soon as he was made aware that he had warrants and took care of the situation.”
According to multiple reports, Savannah Police arrested Quando Rondo for a July 2023 incident. He was involved in a car crash and exhibited signs of an overdose. Authorities said he required sedation at a local hospital after he started acting hostile to the staff.
At the time, Quando Rondo was out on bond on state drug and gang charges. Prosecutors urged a judge to revoke his bond, but he was allowed to stay out of jail. His bond was modified to prevent him from driving and required him to take drug tests.
Quando Rondo was one of 19 people indicted in a state drug and gang case in June 2023. He was charged with conspiracy to violate Georgia’s Controlled Substances Act, participating in criminal activity in association with a street gang and illegal use of a communication facility.
Months later, Quando Rondo faced more trouble when the feds arrested him. He was charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances in December 2023.
The 24-year-old rapper was released on a $100,000 bond after spending more than a week in jail. A judge placed him on house arrest while he awaits trial.
The relationship between hip-hop and smoking has always been intertwined. Across generations, hip-hop artists have often used smoking to showcase their street credibility or promote their brand. But with the advent of vaping, the relationship between hip-hop and smoking has changed. In this blog post, we’ll explore the evolution of hip-hop’s relationship with tobacco, from blunts to balm, and the growing influence of vaping in this genre.
Blunts, which are cigar wraps filled with weed, emerged as a popular choice among hip-hop artists, particularly in the vibrant era of the ’90s. These tightly rolled creations not only served as a means of indulging in a smoking experience but also became a striking symbol of street culture. It was expected to see influential figures in the hip-hop scene, such as Snoop Dogg, Cypress Hill, and Notorious B.I.G, gracefully holding a cigar between their fingers, effortlessly blending the worlds of music and smoking. The act of smoking itself became intertwined with hip-hop culture, with artists often incorporating references to the smoking lifestyle in their lyrics and visuals, further solidifying its significance in the art form.
The transition to bongs
In the early 2000s, a significant transformation occurred in hip-hop culture as bongs emerged as the preferred smoking tool. This shift was not only evident in the lyrics of rap songs but also in the lifestyle choices of influential artists like Lil Wayne, Wiz Khalifa, and Kid Cudi, who openly embraced and celebrated the use of bongs. These artists became known as bong enthusiasts, promoting a new wave of appreciation for this smoking apparatus.
The appeal of bongs over traditional smoking methods, such as blunts and joints, lies in the enhanced smoking experience they offer. With their water filtration system, bongs deliver cooler and smoother smoke, reducing the harshness often associated with other methods. This not only provides a more pleasant smoking experience but also allows for a deeper inhalation, resulting in a more intense high.
The rise of dabbing
With the legalization of marijuana in several states, a new smoking trend emerged – dabbing. Dabbing, a method of consuming cannabis, involves inhaling vaporized concentrates. This is typically done through a small handheld vaporizer called a dab rig. Dabbing gained popularity alongside the rise of trap music, with artists like Future, Migos, and Young Thug often referencing it in their lyrics. Dab pens, which are discreet and user-friendly, also became popular among enthusiasts. As the trend grew, dabbing culture expanded, with enthusiasts exploring different concentrates, experimenting with various techniques, and even attending dabbing events and competitions.
In recent years, vaping has emerged as a new trend among hip-hop artists, captivating the attention of both fans and industry insiders. With its rise in popularity, vaping has become the new symbol of coolness, replacing traditional smoking as the preferred choice of trendsetters. Renowned artists like 21 Savage, Travis Scott, and Post Malone have embraced the vaping culture, often seen effortlessly flaunting their sleek vape pens in music videos and public appearances.
Not only is vaping considered trendy but This phrase could be humanized as: “It’s also praised for the health benefits people believe it offers. As more and more people seek healthier alternatives to smoking, vaping has gained traction as a preferred option. With the rise of cannabis-related products and the increasing acceptance of marijuana, hip-hop artists have found a unique platform to showcase their own branded vape products. This fusion of music, culture, and entrepreneurship has created fresh opportunities for artists to engage with their fans and promote their brand of cannabis-related products, further fueling the vaping phenomenon within the hip-hop community.
Vaping beyond smoking
Hip-hop’s relationship with vaping goes far beyond just smoking. It has become a significant influence not only in the music industry but also in the beauty industry. Vaping has made its way into the world of cosmetics, with cannabis-infused balms, oils, and lotions gaining tremendous popularity. Renowned rappers like Cardi B and Rihanna have taken advantage of this trend and even launched their line of cannabis-based beauty products. By incorporating the trend of vaping into their brand, they have showcased their entrepreneurial spirit and tapped into a growing market that merges the worlds of music, beauty, and cannabis culture. Additionally, products like the THC Pen from TRĒ House exemplify how vaping technology continues to intertwine with various aspects of contemporary culture, including hip-hop’s influence on consumer preferences and lifestyle choices.
Conclusion
The relationship between hip-hop and smoking has always been intriguing and ever-evolving. Throughout the years, hip-hop culture has seamlessly adapted to the shifting trends in smoking practices. From the classic blunts to the rise of balm, the influence of smoking on hip-hop has been undeniable.
However, with the growing popularity of vaping, a new chapter has emerged. Hip-hop artists are now embracing and promoting a healthier approach to smoking through the use of vape pens and cannabis-infused beauty products. This shift highlights hip-hop culture’s adaptability and reflects a conscious effort to prioritize well-being.
NBA YoungBoy’s attorneys filed a motion to dismiss his federal gun charges on February 2. According to court documents obtained by AllHipHop, his lawyers argued the charges were unconstitutional.
The Motown Records artist, whose real name is Kentrell Gaulden, was indicted for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm in 2021. NBA YoungBoy’s lawyers claimed the charges, which stemmed from his 2020 arrest in Baton Rouge, violated his Second Amendment rights.
“The government has not alleged that Mr. Gaulden was observed to be holding a firearm by any law enforcement officer (or any other witness), nor have any allegations been made that Mr. Gaulden was using a firearm in any unlawful way at the time of his alleged offense,” NBA YoungBoy’s legal team wrote. “Rather, the government merely alleges that music video footage shows Mr. Gaulden possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony and for possessing a firearm which is not registered in the national firearms registration and transfer record.”
They continued, “The government does not allege that Mr. Gaulden was posing a threat to anyone and cannot even allege that the suspected firearms observed in the video were functional or loaded when the video was recorded. This prosecution seeks to restrict and deny Mr. Gaulden’s Second Amendment right to possess a firearm based solely on his status [as] a felon and his alleged failure to comply with bureaucratic regulations requiring the registration of firearms into a national database.”
NBA YoungBoy’s lawyers said his alleged possession of a firearm in a public area was protected by the Second Amendment. They disputed the legality of banning convicted felons from possessing guns.
“Scholars and courts alike have previously recognized the lack of a clear historical continuity between the firearm laws in effect when the Second Amendment was ratified and the modern lifetime ban on possessing firearms for anyone convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for term exceeding one year which is currently in effect,” the attorneys wrote. “The Fifth Circuit has acknowledged that ‘the federal felony firearm possession ban bears little resemblance to laws in effect at the time the Second Amendment was ratified, as it was not enacted until 1938, was not expanded to cover non-violent felonies until 1961 and was not re-focused from receipt to possession until 1968’ … In other words, the blanket lifetime ban on the possession of firearms by every individual convicted of a crime for which they could have been sentenced to a term exceeding one year did not exist until 1968.”
The lawyers pushed back against felony-based disarmament. They contended the government “cannot provide the historical analogues to show that felony disarmament comports” with the tradition of firearm regulation in the U.S.
NBA YoungBoy remains on house arrest awaiting trial in his federal gun case. The 24-year-old rapper’s trial is scheduled to begin in July if Judge Shelly Dick rejects his request to dismiss the charges.
Vince Staples is offering a complimentary screening of his upcoming Netflix series in Los Angeles following a recent outcry from his fans. On Tuesday (February 6), the Long Beach rapper announced his plan on Twitter (X), revealing fans could sign up for tickets to view the premiere of his series at Braindead Studios in L.A.
Staples’ explained the move was in response to the overwhelming number of his fans complaining that they can’t watch because they aren’t users of the streaming giant.
”The streets saying they don’t have @Netflix accounts but don’t you fret. We doing a FREE screening for the trenches of Los Angeles !!! Follow the link to link and build. AND WE GOT POPCORN,” Staples wrote in the tweet.
The streets saying they don’t have @Netflix accounts but don’t you fret. We doing a FREE screening for the trenches of Los Angeles !!! Follow the link to link and build. AND WE GOT POPCORN ❗️ https://t.co/IQvYBKkbh5
DJ Akademiks has expressed being a fan of Playboi Carti’s music and marketing skills. However, the outspoken Rumble streamer was not a fan of the Atlanta native’s recent outfit.
“It’s like a onesie. You basically button it at the bottom which means Carti gotta button the s### under his balls. This s### is wild,” Akademiks stated during a livestream.
Ak then said, “The onesie is even worse than the thong, bro. Like, my n#### actually walked out of the store like he was on some Ice Spice s###. Like he was just shaking ass in the deli.”
DJ Akademiks went on to call Playboi Carti a “non-binary vampire.” Additionally, the Off the Record podcaster brought up Iggy Azealia, the mother of Carti’s 3-year-old son Onyx.
He said, “This n#### not doing a m############ thing but playing with [Iggy Azealia’s] makeup, painting his face, trying on women’s clothes. Doing all types of s### that she’s supposed to be doing.”
Akademiks also suggested the viral pictures could be part of an intentional Playboi Carti rollout. The 27-year-old recording artist is expected to release the follow-up album to 2020’s Whole Lotta Red in 2024.
Whole Lotta Red became a commercial success. The AWGE/Interscope-backed project debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 album chart with 100,000 first-week units. Plus, Whole Lotta Redearned gold certification from the RIAA.
G Herbo will make a bold declaration with his upcoming music project. The Chicago-bred recording artist has a new mixtape on the way with a very striking title.
TMZ caught up with G Herbo at Los Angeles International Airport late last month. After talking about getting new teeth to change his image and self-assurance, Herbo revealed the name of his next body of work.
“It does something mentally to you, too. It makes you feel good about yourself, like confident,” Herbo stated about his modified smile. He also said, “I got new music coming, a new mixtape coming called Best Rapper Alive.”
G Herbo will add Best Rapper Alive to a discography that already contains mixtapes such as 2014’s Welcome to Fazoland, 2015’s Ballin Like I’m Kobe and 2023’s Strictly 4 My Fans 2.
His debut studio LP, Humble Beast, dropped in 2017. That album was followed by Still Swervin in 2019, PTSD in 2020, 25 in 2021 and Survivor’s Remorse in 2022. Herbo also teamed with producer Southside for 2018’s Swervo collaborative effort.
Drake became a day-long trending topic on Tuesday (February 6). Alleged footage of the Canadian superstar playing with his private parts went viral.
The video of a man resembling Drake caused a lot of conversation on social media. Apparently, plastic surgeon/internet personality Michael “Dr. Miami” Salzhauer received a lot of messages about male-centered cosmetic procedures.
“Yes, penis enlargement surgery exists,” Dr. Miami posted on X. He later added, “It’s not called a DDL but everyone kept tagging me for some reason so I answered did not know what was going on [loudly crying face emoji].”
Dr. Miami also suggested his response as a “medical professional” to questions about penis enhancement was not meant to be “shady” toward anyone. However, many commenters assumed Drake inspired his tweet.
Jay-Z earned praise from many 2024 Grammy Award viewers for his acceptance speech at the ceremony—but not everyone was impressed.
On Sunday (February 4), the Recording Academy honored Jay-Z with the Dr. Dre Global Impact Award. While addressing the audience, he criticized the Grammys on behalf of his wife, Beyoncé.
“I don’t want to embarrass this young lady [Beyoncé], but she has more Grammys than anyone and never won Album Of The Year,” Jay said. “So even by your own metrics, that doesn’t work.”
Soon after the event aired, veteran journalist Roland Martin expressed disappointment in the Roc Nation founder. Martin took issue with the way Jay-Z handled his call for change at the Grammys, which he discussed on his Roland Martin Unfiltered digital show.
During the Unfiltered segment about the Grammys, Martin pointed out that Killer Mike’s victories this year in the rap categories took place in the un-televised portion of the event. The former TV One host then offered Hov some advice.
“Jay-Z, if you want the Grammys to change, you should’ve said, ‘I will not accept this award nor will I attend until y’all put one of the rap categories on the televised broadcast,” Martin stated. “Jay-Z, Dr. Dre, y’all make it clear, whoever they want to give the award to next year, you make it clear we ain’t showing up unless y’all make the rap album of the year part of the broadcast.”
Roland Martin concluded, “I guarantee you it’s gonna cause some folks to say, ‘We better do it or we’re gonna lose the star power… You pull the star power, ratings go down. When ratings go down, they lose money. We know in America, when they lose money, stuff changes.”
Boosie Badazz became the target of a disrespectful Kodak Black line on the recently released “11am In Malibu” track. Kodak has now gotten a reaction from the Baton Rouge, Louisiana native on social media.
“And n##### been scared of me from ever since I remember, that’s what the streets tell me. I don’t even care about that s###, though, I’m tryna get rich, ho. Who Boosie think he is? Who you n##### think you being?” Kodak Black rapped on the “11am In Malibu” song.
Badazz responded to the Florida-bred rhymer with an Instagram post that read:
WHO BOOSIE THINK HE IS? [face with tears of joy emoji] SOMEONE U WILL NEVER BE #facts YOU MUST BE STILL MAD ABOUT WHAT I SAID CAUSE YOU KEEP BRINGING MY NAME UP. @kodakblack U GOTTA BLAME YOURSELF. YOU GAVE YOUR CAREER A BLACK EYE. I DIDN’T DO IT YOU DID IT. U POSE TO BE FOCUS ON GETTING BACK OUT HERE WITH YOUR FAMILY N GETTING HELP‼️ I WISH U THE BEST N I WISH U FREEDOM #NEWALBUM 2/9
Florida law enforcement officials arrested Kodak Black (real name Bill Kapri) on drug possession charges in December 2023. The 26-year-old When I Was Dead album creator was released on $5,000 bond before being detained again for a probation violation.
Boosie Badazz and Kodak Black reportedly began feuding after Boosie took issue with Kodak collaborating with rapper-turned-government witness 6ix9ine. The Brooklynite born Daniel Hernandez testified against his co-defendants during a federal racketeering trial.
The 2023 “Ungrateful” track seemed to include Boosie’s response to the bad blood with Kodak Black. Previously, the two southerners worked together on the “Slayed” single off Kodak Black’s 2016 mixtape Lil B.I.G. Pac.
British grime legend Flowdan is reflecting on making history after becoming the first artist from the subgenre to win a Grammy Award.
The U.K. rap scene experienced a resurgence in 2023, with rappers breaking records and topping the charts with No. 1 albums. 2024 has got off to a good start, with a Grammy win for pioneering grime artist Flowdan.
On Sunday (February 4), Flowdan achieved a major milestone for the U.K. grime scene. He won the Best Dance/Electronic Recording Grammy for “Rumble,” alongside Fred again.. and Skrillex.
He opened up about the award’s significance during an interview with fellow Roll Deep crew legend DJ Target on his Radio 1Xtra show.
Flowdan also dropped off a freestyle over a classic grime instrumental from 2014. Stormzy later popularized the beat with his 2015 banger “Shut Up.”
“When you talk about doing music, this is probably the most proud way I can speak about it,” he explained. “Now I can have some confidence whenever I’ve explained I’m not talking gibberish when speaking about grime.”
Furthermore, Flowdan says the Grammy award will open doors to people unfamiliar with the subgenre.
“Obviously if you don’t know about the culture, you might not know what grime music is,” he said. “When I say I’m in the top 10… I’ve got a Grammy, the conversation has just been made very short.”
After a two-decades-plus-long career that began on pirate radio stations, Flowdan hopes his new-found Grammys success will bring new fans to grime culture.
“The UK is a gem in itself, our way of thinking, talking and how we put things together,” he added. “It’s like no other place.”
Missy Elliott changed the landscape of Hip-Hop in the late nineties and early noughties with her new sound and eclectic style accompanied by a series of iconic music videos.
On Tuesday (February 6) the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer reminded old fans and introduced new ones to some of her most memorable visuals. Elliott upped the nostalgia factor by recreating her distinctive looks with the original fits she wore the first time around.
“I found all my ORIGINAL outfits I wore in some of my most ICONIC videos,” Missy revealed. “I decided to see what I would look like in these fits in the year 2024.”
The video montage features fits for five unforgettable videos going back nearly 30 years, including “The Rain” (1997), “Hot Boyz” (1999), “Sock it To Me” (!997) “Beep Me 911” (1998) and “Gossip Folks” (2002).
“I went back in time WOW,” Missy Elliott added in the caption. “Heavenly Father I thank you! I’ve come along way!”
Meanwhile, Missy Elliott fans can expect some new music videos as she has been back in the studio working with Timbaland. Last year, the super producer revealed they’ve been working on a new sound.
“We’ve got a lot of songs we’re gonna start recording soon,” he said in April 2023. “I know how Missy works: It’s got to be new and fun — or maybe not so much new as kind of underground, and everything is upbeat.”
Later this year, Timbo is set to join Missy Elliott in the Songwriters Hall of Fame at the 2024 Induction and Awards Gala on June 13.
Kanye West is planning a major tour but claims he’s struggling to book venues seemingly over his antisemitic rants.
Ye took to Instagram Tuesday (February 6) to complain about the issue, revealing he had no problem selling tickets to an upcoming Chicago listening party for his and Ty Dolla $ign’s new album, Vultures.
According to Kanye West, United Centre was the only establishment willing to work with him over the last 12 months.
“We just sold out the United Center in seven minutes,” he claimed in the video. “It’s the only arena that I had access to in the past year.”
West also asked for assistance in making a booking, insinuating he’s blacklisted because of his antisemitism controversies.
“When I call, people say there’s no avails for me, and you know why that is,” he added. “So if there’s anybody out there that can help with this, please do.”
Damn, Kanye said he needs help getting booked into other arenas after selling out the United Center in 7 minutes pic.twitter.com/QtubFgfbTJ
— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod 🇸🇴 (@big_business_) February 7, 2024
Kanye West followed up with a post on Instagram, comparing himself to Elvis.
“I have not been allowed to perform in a year,” he shared. “Feels like the Elvis Presley movie.”
Kanye West Considering Great Wall Of China Performance
It appears Kanye West’s PSA was successful, as he posted screenshots of multiple subsequent offers. One features an exchange with Freddie Gibbs to arrange a show at Petco Park in San Diego.
“I’m glad I put that video up talking about how they not giving me stadiums,” Ye said to Gibbs. “It will sell out like united centre,” Gibbs replied.
West plans to take the tour overseas as his messages with YesJulz reveal. She shared a list of “iconic international venue options that would love to have you.” The trio of landmark locations included the Great Wall of China and the Giza Pyramids. Another suggestion was the Brazilian mountain Corcovado, the home of the famous Christ the Redeemer statue and the open-air Maracana Stadium.
Meanwhile, last week, Kanye West joined Travis Scott onstage on his Circus Maximum tour. He and Scott surprised fans at the Orlando show, performing some of their best-loved songs.
Beyoncé is expanding her business empire, launching her new brand hair care line Cécred.
The Superstar songstress teased her new venture back in May last year, revealing the brand will honor her mother’s legacy as a hairdresser.
On Tuesday night (February 6), Beyoncé took to Instagram to unveil her new brand with an exciting trailer. The video includes a clip of Beyoncé mid-hair wash and another of her as a smiling child alongside her mother, Tina Knowles.
“Hair is sacred,” the caption reads. “The journey begins Feb 20.”
The Cécred website reveals Beyoncé’s new hair care line blends science and ritual. Images from the site indicate that Queen Bey may incorporate honey into her products.
Back in 2020, Beyoncé revealed that she keeps two actual beehives with 80,000 bees at home.
“I’ve had them at my house for a while now,” she explained when Vogue asked for a little-known fact about the 32-time Grammy winner.
“I have around 80,000 bees and we make hundreds of jars of honey a year,” she added. “I started the beehives because my daughters, Blue and Rumi, both have terrible allergies, and honey has countless healing properties.”
Beyoncé shared her inspiration for the line in an Instagram post last May.
“How many of y’all knew my first job was sweeping hair in my mama’s salon?” Beyoncé began.
“Destiny’s Child got our start by performing for clients while they were getting their hair done,” she continued. “I was exposed to so many different kinds of entrepreneurial women in her salon.”
Ice-T wants nothing more than some lovin’ between Benson and Stabler.
The rapper and actor, who has starred in “Law & Order: SVU” since its second season in 2000, spilled all during a photoshoot to mark the hit cop show’s 25th anniversary on air. After more than two decades of watching the sexual tension between his co-stars’ characters build, Ice-T is ready for the pair to just get together, already.
Ice-T told Entertainment Weekly he wants nothing more than for Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler, played by Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni respectively, to finally give into the passionate romance he believes they should be sharing.
“(On) my social media, people think this show’s real,” Ice-T explained, adding the show creator Dick Wolf is the man in charge.
“They’re like, ‘Yo, tell Chris to come back.’ I’m like, ‘I’m not Dick Wolf. I can’t tell Chris just to come… that’s not how it works!’” he said. “But yeah, I’m waiting. Fans are waiting. My fans are like, ‘Tell Mariska to go over to OC and give Chris some lovin’.
Sadly for Ice-T’s dreams, it seems they may go unfulfilled – at least, for now.
In the show’s most recent season the pair came close to a kiss, but both pulled away, with Mariska’s character admitting, “I want to, but I can’t.”
