Kid Cudi served as the musical guest on Saturday Night Live on April 21, 2021, performing “Sad People” and “Tequila Shots.” For the former, he donned a floral dress in the spirit of Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain—and caught plenty of flak for it online. More than two years later, Kid Cudi is still defending his choice in attire. On Monday (January 1), someone shared a clip of the performance to Twitter (X) and wrote, “Kid Cudi participating in an illuminati humiliation ritual…Is the fame and fortune worth it…? #WeWantAnswers.”
Kid Cudi replied, “Dear Issac u silly stupid lil person and all people under this post. Its the start of a new year and I got time for muthaf###as like u today. This post is mad f###in lame of u and sad. A black man cant express himself and be confident AND successful with out it being some conspiracy. My success was givin to me by God with the help of my many angels.
“All u people in the commenfs that have been tweetin me all day about this s### can gargle on my mayo. This moment was a proud moment for me, a shinin moment for all people who express themselves in their art. I felt free and alive, it inspired people and nothing u stupid simple a##es say can take that away from me. Happy New Year u f###in simp.”
Dear Issac u silly stupid lil person and all people under this post. Its the start of a new year and I got time for muthafuckas like u today. This post is mad f##### lame of u and sad. A black man cant express himself and be confident AND successful with out it being some… https://t.co/dOPPP8Zbqn
Kid Cudi’s SNL performance also got a significant amount of praise at the time. The dress was created by designer Virgil Abloh, who has since died. Cudi revealed its origins via Twitter, writing, “Virgil designed the dress for me. I told him I wanted to show love to Kurt [with] a floral print sundress and this man made a masterpiece. Thank You @virgilabloh ur a f##### genius!! Love you man we did it!!!”
The appearance also fell on the same week as the anniversary of Cobain’s death at age 27. As one fan wrote, “Kurt Cobain was a precious soul. During a time that it was popular to shame things that went against society’s idea of normal, Kurt embraced them and advocated for them. Kid Cudi paid homage by doing the same thing. I truly LOVE to see it.”
Boosie Badazz faced social media backlash after saying he walked out of a screening of The Color Purple on Tuesday (January 2). The opinionated rapper was outraged over the film’s depiction of a lesbian romance.
“I HAD TO WALK OUT THIS COLOR PURPLE MOVIE (N TWO OTHER OLDER COUPLES WALKED OUT ALSO,” he wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). “BECAUSE I HAD MY LITTLE GIRLS WITH ME N IT SEEMED LIKE A [rainbow flag emoji] LOVE STORY‼️ GOOD ACTING BUT WHOEVER WROTE THE SCRIPT IS PUSHING THE NARRATIVE HARD‼️ AS A PARENT I WILL NOT LET MY LITTLE GIRL WATCH THIS FILM.”
Social media users mocked and criticized Boosie for walking out of the movie. Several users noted one of his daughters is lesbian and questioned why it bothered him so much.
Boosie appeared to be unfamiliar with the film’s source material. He accused the scriptwriter of pushing a narrative with a queer love story despite the storyline originating from Alice Walker’s novel The Color Purple. Walker’s novel was previously adapted for the big screen in 1985.
The latest version of The Color Purple premiered on December 25, 2023. The film is based on the Broadway musical adaption of Walker’s novel.
Boosie’s displeasure with The Color Purple was in stark contrast to the movie’s overwhelmingly positive critical reception. Audiences also showed up in great numbers for the film, helping it earn $18 million at the box office on its first day.
The Color Purple scored the second-largest Christmas Day opening of all time. The film had the biggest Christmas Day opening since Sherlock Holmes in 2009.
Fantasia, Taraji P. Henson Danielle Brooks, Colman Domingo, Halle Bailey and more star in the new adaptation of The Color Purple. Ghanaian rapper/filmmaker Blitz Bazawule a.k.a. Blitz the Ambassador directed the film.
Check out some of the reactions to Boosie’s comments below.
You were fine with them watching a child be sexually assaulted, impregnated, beaten and verbally abused, but her growing up to find safety and love with a woman is part of a narrative that you don’t want your daughters to see? Just shut your stupid, misogynistic mouth, Boosie. pic.twitter.com/qBnw6LOV6r
2023 was chock-full of incessant complaining as the culture simultaneously celebrated 50 years. The fanfare and criticism were both justified in a great many ways. However, if one would just quiet the chatter and listen, there was no shortage of dope albums in 2023. There was something for everybody if you looked hard enough. We had Hip-Hop from older rappers, Hip-Hop from younger rappers, Hip-Hop from pop rappers and Hip-Hop from trap rappers. It was a literal audio smorgasbord.
Picking the top 25 in a year with so much to offer was no easy task. Our goal was to highlight this bright artistic range of the culture. Please add your favorite albums in the comments section. Without further comment, let us begin with the best album of 2023…
Killer Mike – Micheal
Killer Mike‘s latest album has emerged as a tour de force in the Hip-Hop game, marking a high point in his already illustrious career. Serious fans will recall 2012’sR.A.P. Musicalbum, which was another classic opus as well. 2023’s Micheal is a synthesis, a proverbial gumbo of musicality showcasing the ATLien’s range. The standout feature of the album is the guest appearance by Andre 3000, whose contribution is nothing short of breathtaking, but it is not the only reason this album is topping the 2023 album lists.
“Down by Law,” a track that sets the tone with its razor-sharp, incisive lyrics and Micheal goes up from there. Other notable songs include “Shed Tears,” “Motherless,” and “Something for Junkies,” each adding depth and emotion to the album’s narrative. “Run” stands out for its introduction by comedian Dave Chappelle, who sets the stage for a diatribe about the challenges faced by modern black leaders. This track epitomizes Killer Mike’s evolution, not just as an artist but as a figure of political and social significance.
Andre 3000‘s return from a musical hiatus on “Scientists & Engineers” was not the only memorable guest appearance on Michael. Supporting cast members included CeeLo Green, Mozzy, Young Thug, 6lack, Eryn Allen Kane, Jagged Edge, André 3000, Future, Currensy, 2 Chainz, Kaash Paige, Blxst, Fabo, El-P and Ty Dolla Sign. With all the features and guests, Micheal Render is still the maestro of this masterpiece and others are in his orchestra. This album, a certified classic in every sense, is a testament to the enduring legacy and relevance of one Micheal Render and an entire culture.
Nick Grant’s latest work, Sunday Dinner, represents a pinnacle in his career. This project, brimming with soulful elements, is a masterful blend of furious lyrics, intimate storytelling, and meticulous song composition. The production choices are world-class, and craft a seamless and engaging narrative. All of this showcases Grant’s exceptional skill as an emcee. The integration of gospel elements throughout the album enriches its depth and appeal. Nick has been criminally overlooked, but his work will not be ignored for long with this level of artistry. Since his emergence with the ’88 mixtape in 2016 and the acclaimed “Return of the Cool,” this artist from South Carolina has steadily enhanced his craft. This LP stands as a powerful statement of his evolution and artistic skill. One could argue the culture has been begging Andre 3000 for what Nick Grant has blessed us with. (Click here for our 2023 interview with Nick Grant)
Doja Cat came home in 2023. Sort of. Her latest album Scarlett is a testament to her ability to stay fresh and relevant in a constantly evolving music industry. Doja demonstrates her unique talent for reinvention, moving between pop and Hip-Hop worlds with ease. “Paint the Town Red” samples Dionne Warwick’s “Walk on By” and sets the tone for a decidedly Hip-Hop album. On this release, the Los Angeles native moves away from the polished pop of the past, while maintaining her signature euphoric vocal style. Standout tracks like “Agora Hills,” “Wet V#####,” “Demons,” “Paint the Town Red,” “Attention,” and “Gun” showcase her versatility. Each track has its unique appeal that promises to grow on listeners.
This self-written, featureless album highlights Doja Cat’s extraordinary ability to outshine her pop peers with a heavy dose of culture. She effortlessly switches flows, beats, and attitudes, taking listeners on a diverse musical journey. The album also addresses past controversies, offering deeper insight into the character of Scarlett. Scarlett is a rarity: a no-skip rap album with both pop appeal and underground seasoning. This dynamic collection of songs solidifies Doja Cat’s position as a leading artist of her generation.
Noname’s Sundialdid not make a massive difference in a world of rap overrun with sex and violence But she does represent the potential within the current culture. Sundial quickly redeems itself from its “interesting” cover art. Songs like “black mirror” and “gospel?” showcase her vast lyrical capabilities and line up immaculately with her choice of beats. Jay Electronica’s controversial verse on “balloons” provided quite a stir online, but does not impede the overall mission. Sundial marks a return to Noname’s distinctive style, addressing serious issues and demonstrating her willingness to stand firm in her beliefs, even at the expense of wider appeal. Ayoni, billy woods, $ilkMoney, and Common pull up. Sundial did not garner the acclaim of earlier projects like Telefone (2016) and Room 25 (2018), but is is not a disappointment. It is beyond refreshing to hear an unapologetic, unafraid voice let loose in 2023.
Nas has consistently demonstrated his lyrical prowess, but his recent collaborations with producer Hit-Boy has taken his legend to mythic levels. Magic 3 is the crowning achievement of this new life. This album, Nas’s seventeenth studio release, quickly followed its predecessor Magic 2 and initially raised concerns about maintaining the high quality of his recent works. Any doubts were swiftly dispelled upon listening. Magic 3 might just be the pinnacle of this collaborative series. Nas’s bars show up as always, and Hit-Boy brings his a-game. With 15-tracks and a runtime of just over 45 minutes, Magic 3 not only offers generous content but debunks concepts of agism in Hip-Hop. The entire run, including King’s Disease trilogy, leaves the culture in awe of the continuous brilliance of both Nas and Hit-Boy.
Chika’s talent is extraordinary. Her experience in slam poetry infuses her work with unique rhythms and profound depth that are rarely explored by others. Describing her as an “Old Soul” doesn’t fully capture the essence. Chika effortlessly addresses themes of social justice and systemic change, transforming listeners into ardent supporters through her masterfully composed anthems that powerfully declare her identity. The album Samson: The Album showcases a wide range, from the energetic “Prodigy” to the futuristic “Get Here,” which features the incomparable Stevie Wonder. The album fearlessly dives deep emotionally. Her Alabama heritage enriches the music, but keeps is powerfully within Hip-Hop, poetry, and artistry at large.
Gunna’s solo endeavor in A Gift & a Curse shook up the world. Tackling the project single-handedly in the face of industry opposition, Gunna has crafted a stunning, featureless album that’s nothing short of a magnum opus. Kicking off with “back at it” the album weaves through its 15 tracks with Gunna’s signature ease. His lyrics flow seamlessly, navigating beats and emotions as he reflects on his legal challenges, incarceration, and eventual release, along with the mixed reactions from the industry and his fans. This album is a testament to Gunna’s unparalleled consistency and talent. Relying solely on his artistry, he delivers what’s undeniably the pinnacle of rap in 2023. A Gift & a Curse isn’t just an album; it’s a defining moment for Gunna, solidifying his status as one of the rap greats.
Travis Scott‘s latest album, UTOPIA is a musical revelation, showcasing the Texas native’s creative genius and intense passion for the craft. The album brilliantly merges various musical styles, creating a unique and innovative sound. UTOPIA marks a significant growth for the artist, both in artistry and lyricism. The album’s verses are introspective and emotionally rich and the production is exceptional. The album unfolds like a narrative, creating an immersive and thought-provoking world that challenges traditional Hip-Hop boundaries. Overall, UTOPIA is an extraordinary musical journey that transcends genre limitations, representing the limitless creativity within Hip-Hop. And Travis Scott.
Larry June continues to make moves and, in 2023, dropped another gem with The Alchemist. A sequel to 2022’s Spaceships on the Blade, The Great Escape is an album made in Hip-Hop heaven. The Alchemist’s beats and unique sound are just what Larry June needed to complement his chill slow flow. Quite differently than his underground peers, this album climbed all the charts. Big Sean, Ty Dolla $ign and Wiz Khalifa join the duo on this project. Highlight tracks include “89 Earthquake,” “60 Days,” and “Summer Reign.”
Voir Dire represents a significant high point in Earl Sweatshirt’s discography, arguably his best work since Some Rap Songs (SRS) in 2018. Voir Dire marks a more substantial return to form, pleasing fans and critics who were less impressed with some of his intermediate albums. Voir Dire is sharp, clearly defined, and purposeful. It demonstrates a cohesive sound, compliments of The Alchemist, and thematic consistency, something Earl has struggled with in the past. Hearing his honesty on past struggles like depression and substance abuse with a newfound maturity is refreshing. This album is a triumph. Voir Dire is a look back and also forward motion for one Earl Sweatshirt.
“Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver” is a continuation of a Netflix saga with Kora and a band of intergalactic warriors. In this installment, the narrative focuses on their preparation for a monumental battle to defend the village Veldt. This setting is a haven for those who have lost their homes in the conflict with the Motherworld. The story emphasizes the personal stakes for each warrior as they confront their pasts and motivations for fighting on the eve of the battle. As they face the overwhelming power of the Realm, the narrative guarantees the emergence of heroes and the creation of legends. Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver explores themes of sacrifice, heroism, and the fight for a cause greater than oneself.
Joey Bada$$ has portrayed Kadeem “Unique” Mathis for three seasons on Power Book III: Raising Kanan. The second Power spin-off returned to the Starz network on December 1.
Many fans of the show were left shocked after the “Brothers and Keepers” episode of Raising Kanan aired. That installment of the crime drama featured the apparent on-screen demise of Unique.
People caught up with Joey Bada$$ to discuss Unique’s death. The actor/rapper shared his first reaction to reading the script for S3E5. Apparently, Bada$$ was just as stunned as the viewers.
“I was devastated. But all good things come to an end, and I feel like this character has helped me spread my wings in the TV and film industry. I mean, it’s very unfortunate. I hate to be leaving the Kanan family,” Joey stated.
Joey Bada$$ went on to admit he contacted Raising Kanan creator Sascha Penn about the decision to kill off Unique. The 28-year-old Brooklyn native also shared his thoughts on how fans of the series might react to the scene happening in the middle of the season.
“I don’t think they’re going to like it one bit. I think a lot of people are going to be a little disappointed,” Bada$$ declared. He also added, “I feel like we’ve never truly seen Unique reach his full potential. He’s had some setbacks, and he’s been climbing back up ever since.”
Before joining the cast of Power Book III: Raising Kanan, Joey Bada$$ starred in other television programs such as Mr. Robot, Boomerang, Wu-Tang: An American Saga and Grown-ish. He also played the lead role in the Oscar-winning Two Distant Strangers short film.
BROOOOOO THEY AINT NEVA JUST WRITE UNIQUE OFF DA SHOW BRO CANCEL THE FCKN SHOW OMFG😭, GET RONNIE GONE RAQ‼️ Man I’m sick asf #RaisingKananpic.twitter.com/3zatbqQuQX
In loving memory of Unique, you didn’t deserve to die like you did in Power Book III: Raising Kanan. S/O to Joey Badass tho, a dope actor and a heavily slept on lyricist. pic.twitter.com/bXwT9JrzZu
Snoop Dogg will serve as a special correspondent for NBC during the Olympic Games in Paris beginning July 26. The D-O-Double-G will chat with NBC Olympics host Mike Tirico and provide the U.S. network’s audience with his unique take on the games in the French metropolis. He’ll also explore the city’s iconic landmarks, attend Olympic events and check in with competitors.
“I grew up watching the Olympics and am thrilled to see the incredible athletes bring their A-game to Paris,” he said in a statement. “It’s a celebration of skill, dedication and the pursuit of greatness. We’re going to have some amazing competitions and, of course, I will be bringing that Snoop style to the mix. It’s going to be the most epic Olympics ever, so stay tuned and keep it locked.
“Let’s elevate, celebrate, and make these games unforgettable, smoke the competition and may the best shine like gold. Peace and Olympic LOVE, ya dig?”
Snoop Dogg previously provided commentary on the Tokyo Games alongside Kevin Hart for Peacock in 2021.
“Snoop is already an Olympic gold medal commentator, generating tens of millions of views for his highlights commentary on Peacock of the dressage competition during the Tokyo Olympics,” Molly Solomon, executive producer and president, NBC Olympics Production,” added. “That performance alone has earned Snoop a job as our Special Correspondent in Paris.
“We don’t know what the heck is going to happen every day, but we know he will add his unique perspective to our re-imagined Olympic primetime show.”
Snoop has a colorful history of commentating, including numerous clips of himself watching nature videos he dubbed “Plizzanet Earth,” which people need to see to believe. Find one below.
Jeffery “Young Thug” Williams, 32, is still on trial in Georgia for gang-related charges. Fulton County prosecutors plan to call more witnesses beginning this week.
According to WSB-TV, the RICO case will resume on Tuesday (January 2). Judge Ural Glanville paused the trial after someone stabbed Young Thug’s co-defendant, Shannon Stillwell, in jail last month.
A fellow inmate allegedly attacked Shannon Stillwell, aka Shannon Jackson, during a December 10 fight. Stillwell reportedly left Grady Memorial Hospital and can now return to the courtroom.
Authorities indicted Young Thug and more than two dozen other suspects in May 2022. Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis claims the rapper led a criminal street gang under the guise of the YSL record label.
“He is not running this criminal street gang in Cleveland Avenue area of ‘Bleveland,’ to gain property, money or power,” Thug’s attorney Brian Steel, argued in opening statements.
Steel also told jurors, “Jeffery Williams did it on will and hard work and determination without anybody’s help except for the people from that area who he will not turn his back on.”
Young Thug, along with five other people, pled not guilty to all charges. However, numerous charged defendants took plea deals, including YSL recording artist Sergio “Gunna” Kitchens.
Prosecutors charged Thug with Participation in Criminal Street Gang Activity, Possession of Firearm During Commission of a Felon and additional offenses. The Business Is Business album creator could face a reported maximum sentence of 120 years in state prison. He has remained behind bars since his arrest.
“Ima just drop music all year and see what happens,” JID tweeted before his latest offering landed on YouTube. The song’s official visualizer has amassed more than 100,000 views in 10 hours.
Upon its release, “30 (Freestyle)” received positive reviews from JID’s online fanbase. The 33-year-old MC also garnered praise from some of his Hip-Hop peers.
For example, Russ replied to the Spillage Village representative’s “30 (Freestyle)” tweet by writing, “Bodied.” Fellow Dreamville rapper Cozz posted, “JID is really good at rappin.”
Supporters of JID can likely look forward to more new music. On December 29, he tweeted, “Working on [an] album is such a ‘no days off’ ass process. [You] really gotta chase that feeling when [you] get it, and it comes outta nowhere.”
The former Hampton University student also added, “I vowed to not give any false hope because things always change in this business, I’ll announce [the album] when everything is preparing to drop.”
working on a album is such a “no days off” ass process. u really gotta chase that feeling when u get it, and it comes outta no where
Doja Cat had a standout 2023. The Los Angeles-bred rapper/singer dropped her highly-anticipated fourth studio LP, Scarlet, on September 22. One record on that project ends the year with a major accolade.
Scarlet hosts the “Paint The Town Red” track. That hit peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Doja Cat’s second Hot 100 leader also reportedly tops a list for Spotify in the rap category.
According to Chart Data, “Paint The Town Red” was the most streamed 2023 rap song on Spotify. The RCA Records-back single racked up over 730 million streams on the audio platform since its release in August.
There have been questions about how to categorize “Paint The Town Red.” Is it rap or pop? The Recording Academy nominated Doja Cat’s single in the Best Pop Solo Performance category for the upcoming 2024 ceremony.
In addition, Doja picked up Best Melodic Rap Performance and Best Rap Song nominations for “Attention.” That song has totaled more than 105 million streams on Spotify so far.
Doja Cat also included “Attention” on the official Scarlet tracklist. The album debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart by moving 72,000 album-equivalent units in its first week of release.
DJ Akademiks and Metro Boomin have been in a war of words for years. The latest round in their beef included Ak using deceased relatives as ammunition.
“@MetroBoomin. You a b#### ass n####. Don’t like s### bout me you hoe ass n####… every time I violated [you]… [you] basically ran and tuck your tail,” Akademiks tweeted on Saturday (December 30).
The Off The Record podcast host then posted, “@MetroBoomin your b#### ass ain’t respond to Drake… [You] a known hoe.. go mourn in peace [you] s#######.”
“@MetroBoomin, you a sucka n####… tweet [and] deleter.. .a true pure 100% [fish scale] p####. [Sensitive] beatmaker who [throws] stones and [hides your] hand… Keep mourning [you] b#### ass n#### and keep my f*cking name out of [your] likes and mentions,” Ak continued.
Akademiks also wrote, “@MetroBoomin remember you the same b#### ass n#### who made No Jumper pull [an] interview [with] you because your sensitive ass didn’t change your tampon that damn day… your ass should be in the studio making beats and stay [the f###] off Twitter/Instagram/YT.”
.@MetroBoomin you a sucka n####… tweet a deleter.. .a True pure 100% fishcale p####. Sensistive beatmaker who throw stones and hide ur hand…. Keep mourning u b#### ass n#### and keep my f*cking name out of ur likes and mentions.
.@MetroBoomin remember you the same b#### ass n#### who made No Jumper pull a interview w/ you because your sensitive ass didn't change your tampon that damn day… your ass should be in the studio making beats and stay tf off Twitter/Instagram/YT
Nicki Minaj has made good on her promise to get Funny Marco a Christmas gift following their recent sit-down.
The rap icon chopped it up with the comedian in a hilariously awkward interview to promote her latest album, Pink Friday 2. The duo met up during the holiday season, leading Marco to ask his guest for a gift.
After confirming he would like “lamb,” Minaj questioned what restaurant he’d like it from. However, Marco was really pushing his luck and was actually referring to a Lamborghini. A red “2 X7,” to be specific.
After rolling her eyes and going silent, Minaj jokes, “Nicki left. You have reached her business manager.”
Nonetheless, despite initially ignoring his request, the “Barbie World” hitmaker apparently changed her mind. On New Year’s Day (January 1), Nicki Minaj took to her Instagram Story with a surprise for Funny Marco.
She posted a photo of a red Lambo truck telling Marco to “look outside your window right now,” for his “surprise.”
Unfortunately, it appears Nicki Minaj was trolling. She followed up with another post revealing her team misheard her request to get Marco the “best lamb chops” and not a “red Lambo truck.”
Minaj then took to Instagram Live to explain further. “There seems to have been some sort of a mix up with something that I posted,” she said before teasing that he could have gotten his wish if things had gone differently during their interview. “So Funny Marco, if you’re seeing this, you should have let me win ‘Rock, Paper, Scissors.’”
Cardi B borrowed a famous Tina Turner song to caption her New Year’s Day photo dump before revealing she and Offset are still intimate despite their ongoing separation.
The Hip-Hop super couple sparked reconciliation rumors after they were spotted partying together in Miami on New Year’s Eve.
While Cardi firmly shut down speculation of a reunion, she later admitted they slept together. The “Bongos” hitmaker clarified their relationship status during a New Year’s Day talk with her fans on X.
“Was I clubbing with my baby daddy, yes,” she explained in a Spaces discussion. “Did I get dick down on New Year’s Eve, yes. I needed dick on New Year’s Eve.”
While Cardi conceded she and Offset had a good time and were “were vibing,” on their night out, it’s not enough to mend their relationship. She said she’s determined not to fall back into their old patterns, revealing they would reconcile before arguing and blocking each other the following day.
Cardi B also shared that she and Offset are going to therapy. “If it goes well, then we will be back together,” she said, after stating that while “we love each other,” they have “communication” issues.
Meanwhile, Cardi shared a series of stunning photos from her New Year’s Eve celebrations on social media. She used the famous Tina Turner song to caption her post, seemingly about her night with Offset.
“What’s love got to do wit it?” she wrote alongside her photo dump. “Happy New Years.”
Playboi Carti has a thing for Ice Spice, and he isn’t afraid to let her, or the world know how he feels, shooting his shot at the Bronx-bred rapper on his new song with Travis Scott.
Carti kicked off the New Year with a surprise single featuring Travis Scott called “Backr00ms” alongside a music video. The song, released on Monday (January 1) sees Carti round out his verse with his thoughts on the “Barbie World” rapper.
“I think I need me a Ice Spice, yeah, I want me a munch,” Playboi Carti raps on the track, which coincidentally dropped on the flame-haired artist’s birthday.
Furthermore, Playboi Carti doubled down on his Instagram Story, sharing a raunchy photo of Ice Spice from her birthday dump IG post.
“Backr00ms” follows Carti and Scott’s#### song “FE!N” from Scott’s Utopia and their “Love Hurts,” and “Green & Purple” collaborations.
Meanwhile, Carti recently released the Kanye West-produced “2024” ahead of his upcoming album, rumored to be titled: I AM MUSIC.
He addressed the project during a November interview with Numéro Berlin.
“I’ve been recording in Paris, I love Paris. Amazing,” Carti explained. “I was recording, in a cave, for like three months, and all the music that came out of that is just chaotic and crazy. Then, I’m in a glass house, somewhere in the hills, and the music there is just very good to the ears. And then, I’m in Atlanta and the tensions are just high and the music is biting.”
Tamar Braxton is disgusted over leaked behind-the-scenes footage from the night Chrisean Rock allegedly assaulted her backup dancer and is sharing her own video from that night following backlash over sister Toni.
The reality TV star went viral in November after attending one of Braxton’s shows. Rock was said to be upset that she wasn’t allowed to perform, sparking an altercation with dancer James Wright. Tamar Braxton claimed Wright suffered multiple injuries which required hospital treatment. Rock denied the allegations, accusing Braxton of clout chasing and trying to “embarrass me publicly.”
On Monday (January 1), TMZ shared a video showing tensions flared earlier in the evening. Chrisean Rock awkwardly breaks up Tamar Braxton’s prayer circle, moving her sister Toni out of the way so she can stand beside her. Toni appears alarmed and refuses to hold Rock’s hand as the prayer continues.
Tamar Braxton Outrage Over Leaks, Responds To Backlash Over Sister Toni
It’s unclear who posted the footage, but Tamar Braxton is fuming over the leak. She took to social media Monday to call out the culprit.
“I wasn’t going to say anything because I think that at this point y’all are going to believe whatever you want,” she wrote on X. “And ALL the events that happened was unfortunate. But what is truly DISGUSTING is that my dressing room and prayer is a sacred place and whomever released that can go straight to hell.”
Tamar Braxton returned later on Monday to address the backlash over her sister Toni’s refusal to join hands with Chrisean Rock. She also posted a video from the night of the alleged incident showing Wright with a bloody mouth.
“Finally video of the truth!,’ she captioned the video. “Leave me and Toni Braxton out of this!!!” Check out her post below and watch the video at the end of the page.
“I’m OVER it!! Coming for my sister who has lupus and don’t even really come outside was the line for me. This is so traumatic,” she continued. “Having to relive that night because some greedy person wanted to sell footage. Well now i have the ALL the footage y’all been waiting on. God don’t like ugly. It’s all on my YouTube. I’m Never EVER discussing this again Goodnight.”
Taraji P. Henson is no longer interested in getting married.
The “Empire” actress has been engaged twice, with her most recent engagement to American football player Kelvin Hayden getting called off in 2020.
During an appearance on the “Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard” podcast on Monday, Taraji, 53, revealed she would now rather have a life partner than a husband.
“I’m single and happy,” she stated. “I’m not longing (for a relationship) and at this point, I’ve decided I don’t want to be married. For what? I’m not having (more) kids (so) what’s the point? Let’s be life partners. Live and thrive. I want to keep my house, you keep yours… So if you want us to be together, I’m still gonna keep my house but you can buy us another house, I’m not moving in with you, you’re not moving in with me and we’re gonna enjoy life… without all that paperwork.”
She continued, “I’m OK, I’m happy, just as long as my loved ones are healthy. My heart is open, I’m not bitter or jaded… I’m open to love (but) I don’t feel like I’m missing anything.”
Taraji P. Henson, who has a 29-year-old son, admitted it is hard to find a man who can date “a very successful woman” and handle the invasion of privacy.
“People are gonna be in your business. And that happened; they didn’t like that we were together. Somebody created a page and started trying to tear him down,” she said, not divulging who she was referring to. “I was like, ‘I told you I come with a lot, ’cause if you weren’t with me this wouldn’t be happening. You could be dating any woman and it wouldn’t be looked at under a microscope. That means now your life is public. Every move you make people are watching because of me.'”
Taraji noted that her partners “usually start off infatuated” with her and are “proud” of her success but that often fizzles out and they feel threatened.
Citing an example, she added, “I knew we were doomed when he took us to the spa and the lady said, ‘This way, Mr Henson.’ I was like, ‘She just f**king killed my relationship.'”
Consequence and Talib Kweli are at it again—this time after the A Tribe Called Quest affiliate called out the Black Star rapper for his multiple harassment allegations. The two have been feuding since 2022 when Cons stood by Kanye West amid his antisemitism controversy. To seal the deal, Cons dropped an entire diss track aimed at Kweli called “Beef Forever” in which he brings up Kweli’s ex-wife, DJ Eque, who filed for divorce in 2021.
“You might have went around with the Lyricist Lounge, but the underground know who got the Lyricist Crown/So you should be afraid, watch the levels EQ/You should know that night I could’ve left with Eque.” He also references rapper Res and the sexual harassment claims she levied against him in 2018. “You probably so afraid of that left from Eque, and that’s the reason why them other girls got #MeToo’d/You never been more than a Mr. Me Too, and you don’t really want no smoke with the one I too, n####/ We got beef forever, once we got beef we got beef forever.”
Naturally, it didn’t take long for Kweli to respond via Instagram, his preferred social media platform since being booted from Twitter. In an attempt to defend himself, he dragged Akademiks and his ex’s recent sexual assault allegations into it.
“‘That’s why Trumps my guy, he keeps it a bean! – DJ Wackademiks – NGL I didn’t have Dexter and Wackademiks alliance on my 2023 bingo card,” he captioned the post. “You can tell these knee grows have no friends this song [trash] How @constv mad at me for saying what he be saying about Kanye two years before he said it and @akademiks I been waiting for your Jerry the Mouse ass to jump out the window. So Trump the nazi rapist is your guy huh.”
Kweli later claimed Akademiks and Consequence “conspired” to release “Beef Forever” on the media personality’s Instagram page.
“Today @akademiks ex girlfriend accused Akademiks of rape,” he continued. “Dexter really needs better friends. The language @akademiks used to describe @constv diss song about me was ‘violate.’ This man sure does know a thing or two about how to violate. What’s crazy is @constv (Dexter) started stalking me in defense of Kanye, a man he now says the same things about that I said two years before he did. When called out for this behavior, @constv falsely accused me of being raped by Afrika Bambatta. Let’s say that horrible thing happened, which it didn’t, but if it did, I would not be something to laugh about.
“Both @akademiks and @constv hang out with Tekashi 6ix9ine. @constv had his son around 6ix9ine. 6ix9ine was arrested for raping a minor. @akademiks and @constv are also Trump supporters. Trump was indicted for rape. Trump was also Jeffrey Epstein codefendant in a child molestation case. These are not coincidences. Birds of a feather indeed. The universe is listening. @akademiks I told you that you were next.”
But Cons fired back, sharing a headline about Talib Kweli being accused of sexual harassment by rapper Res and comparing him to R. Kelly. As he wrote in the caption, “Hey @akademiks. Don’t worry about DJ Chicken Fingers. He’s the BackPack version of R.Kelly. Promising Deals For The Panties. Knowing Full Well…He A Vaseline Boy. ‘You probably so afraid of that left from EQ/And that’s the reason why those other girls got Me Too’ed’ via NoCapCons.”
He also shared a photo of Kweli on his wedding day and wrote, “Look at this SausageHead (Pause). Couldn’t keep her huh @talibkweli. She wouldn’t get the Vaseline from Costco huh…I don’t blame her though. At least you still got The Native Tongues. #BEEFFOREVER.” Keep scrolling to see them all.
It’s no secret Freddie Gibbs doesn’t care for Akademiks. The Alfredo rapper laid into the polarizing media personality for days on end in 2020 after Akademiks said Gibbs was “absolutely irrelevant” if Jeezy is, a reference to a comment Gibbs made about his former CTE World boss during an interview—and it’s been on ever since. So when a woman from Akademiks’ past accused him of sexual assault last week, Gibbs took the opportunity to roast the former Everyday Struggle co-host.
“Let the disrespect be as loud as the disrespect,” Gibbs wrote. He added, “@Akademiks quiet as a church mouse today happy new year U rapist a## b####,” before calling him a “hoe a## n###a.” He then vowed, “I’mma come to court and slap U.”
@Akademiks quiet as a church mouse today happy new year U rapist ass b####.
Akademiks inadvertently invited the drama into his life during an episode of his podcast in which he claimed he caught his ex hooking up with two of his friends. He said after passing out, he found security footage of the woman with the men the next morning.
“[I was] shaming her,” Ak said. “I said to her, you came to my house and had two n##### just f### you raw. I ain’t seen no condom, no nothing. I told her, you should go get tested, that’s wild. From that moment, the denial shifted. And she kept trying to pivot on the denial to ‘send me the video.’ My homies did not tell me they f##### her. At that point I only seen it on my security camera.”
The woman, Ziya Abashe, quickly took to social media to tell her side of the story.
“For you to pretend you didn’t do anything? That I just went to your house and I’m some thot, like we didn’t know each other for 2 years. You tried to save yourself after your friends assaulted me. Whether or not you got drunk or not. I know that when you woke up, you were on top of me too. You raped me too.”
Following the podcast, Abashe said a rape kit was conducted and encouraged Akademiks to come clean. She added, “I look crazy right now, but I’m not going to stand here and let this man continue to lie about me. That’s not what happened Akademiks, you know that’s not what happened.”
Akademiks has been accused of questionable behavior concerning women multiple times. Purported texts from him to a young girl are also making the rounds. Find them below.
Allegedly akademiks is linking & flying out underage girls & keeping in contact with girls to turn 18 to have sex with. This is a new story & their are multiple girls coming out about him making them drink to the point their unconscious & unresponsive so he can assault them pic.twitter.com/anE2QiChln
Cardi B and Offset have supposedly been estranged for some time, but that’s not how it looked on New Year’s Eve. The husband and wife duo spent the holiday together at a Miami strip club and appeared to be having a good time. In a clip circulating online, Cardi and Offset toss money into the crowd as the music bumps. But according to the “Bodak Yellow” rapper, that doesn’t mean they have reconciled. As she said on Twitter, “We not together.. we together when I say so not when you THINK so.”
The meetup was rather convenient considering both the Migos member and Cardi B were in Miami for a performance at Fontainebleau Miami Beach. Offset was performing at LIV, while Cardi was booked poolside. The two were previously spotted together in New York City around Christmas, but Cardi once again denied they were back on.
Cardi B and Offset got married in 2017 and went on to have two children together. However, their relationship has been marred by infidelity rumors since the beginning. More recently, Blueface claimed Offset hooked up with his ex Chrisean Rock. Cardi seemed to have had enough and went on social media to rant about their split.
This motherf###er really liked to play games with me when I’m at my most vulnerable time, when I’m not the most confident, he liked to play games with me, because he knows I’m not an easy girl,” Cardi said. “You really been f###ng feeling yourself, you b#### a## n###a, with your b#### a## album and s##t, and you’ve really been f###ing doing me dirty after so many f###ng years that I motherf###ng helped your a##, not even a f###ing thank you did I get from your b#### a##! I’m so f###ing tired of it!”
Elsewhere she tweeted, “@OffsetYRN you a b#### a## n#### …and trust me imma f###in take it there! Motherf###as will try you when you at ya lowest and your most vulnerable time.. you out here feeling yourself but trust me the tables turn.”
Cardi B confirmed their breakup on December 11 after Blueface claimed Offset slept with Chrisean Rock. She wrote: “I don’t know if you guys been getting clues for me from my Lives or from my Stories when I put some certain music or find my own followings. When it comes to today’s events, I don’t know if it’s true. I don’t think it’s true. I don’t care to find out because I’ve been single for a minute now.”
She added she didn’t think Offset cheated on her with Rock but also didn’t “care to find out.” She continued, “I want to start 2024 fresh, open. I’m curious for a new life, a new beginning. I’m excited.”
Colman Domingo has revealed he didn’t get a role in “Boardwalk Empire” because of his skin color.
The “Euphoria” actor revealed to The New York Times that he auditioned for the role of a maître d’ at a Black-owned nightclub in the Prohibition-era drama in 2014, the final year of its run. Domingo received a callback following his audition, in which he sang and tap danced in a tuxedo, and he thought the role would be his big break.
According to the article, “There was just one problem, his agent said. After the callback, a historical researcher on the show reminded producers that the maître d’s in those nightclubs were typically light-skinned, and Domingo was not. ‘Boardwalk Empire’ had passed.”
Domingo received the news while he was in the gym, and he later declared to his husband at home that he was ready to quit acting.
“That’s when I lost my mind,” he recalled. “I can’t take it anymore, I think this is going to kill me.” However, the 54-year-old eventually decided to keep pursuing his career, and his determination has paid off in the last few years.
In 2022, he won the Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series for his performance as Ali in “Euphoria,” and he is currently nominated for a Golden Globe and Critics Choice Award for his portrayal of civil rights activist Bayard Rustin in the movie “Rustin.”
He also stars in the new movie musical adaptation of “The Color Purple” alongside Taraji P. Henson, Fantasia Barrino and Danielle Brooks.
Uncle Murda‘s annual New Year’s Eve “Rap Up” has become just as much a tradition as the ball drop in Times Square. Like clockwork, the gruff sound of Murda’s voice rang in 2024 with more than six minutes of highlights from the past 365 days. The track begins with an old clip from Trick Daddy calling Murda “the No. 1 clown for the last five years.”
Summing up Uncle Murda’s schtick, it continues, “You take people’s unfortunate disasters. You take people’s downward spirals in life. You take the things that people go through within a year, [and] you sit there and put it in a song. You mention the dead. You mention victims. You mention everybody. You mention people’s money, wives, children. You’re disrespectful.”
And, of course, Diddy was one of those people whose “unfortunate disasters” made the cut—almost immediately. From there, Murda dives into the fentanyl crisis and suggests Jamie Foxx did some coked laced with the powerful pain killer and came back “looking like a f###king clone.” He also claims Blueface became the “first rapper to f### Soulja Boy’s baby mother.”
Donald Trump’s infamous mug shot, Young Thug’s seemingly endless RICO trial, Troy Ave testifying against Taxstone and Joe Budden vs. Drake beef brings listeners into the third minute of the track before Uncle Murda goes into the messy infidelity rumors between Cardi B, Offset and Chrisean Rock. He also brings up Sexyy Red’s sex tape and imagines she probably got pregnant while filming it.
Murda then takes a shot at Megan Thee Stallion, calling her a “ho” when referring to Tory Lanez’s conviction for allegedly shooting her. Next, he addresses André 3000’s flute album, saying, “André 3000 finally put some s### out/Honestly, he was better not putting s### out/I was trying to catch a vibe but I just can’t catch that s###/All he did was play flutes, I wish he would have said some s###.”
“Rap Up 2023” feels shorter than past efforts, which Murda admits toward the end, saying “I ain’t even finished it/I still got so much s### to pop.” Listen to what he did finish in full below and expect two more installments in the coming days.
