AllHipHop

The Reign of RockstarRican: A Musical Genius

By: Staff Writer Updated Category: Music News
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He is undoubtedly one such artist. This acclaimed rapper, singer, songwriter, and musician from Virginia has captivated audiences around the world with his unique style and undeniable talent. RockstarRican’s journey is a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passion and the relentless pursuit of dreams.

Born on the 3rd of April, 1996 and raised in Richmond, Virginia, RockstarRican’s love for music began at an early age. He would spend countless hours listening to his favorite artists, studying their lyrics, and immersing himself in the sounds that moved him. It was clear to those around him that music was more than just a passing interest; it was a calling.

RockstarRican grew up listening to Lil Wayne, Boosie, Drake and Fabolous along with several other artists while growing up in a household with his single mother on the Southside of Richmond Virginia. Growing up he wanted to pursue a music career to support himself along with his family members.

The fire within him to create music burned brighter than ever, and he made the courageous choice to drop out of college and fully dedicate himself to his craft. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of RockstarRican’s remarkable journey. In 2016, he recorded his first song and that’s when he fell in love with the recording studio, and from there he used his money he was making from his part time job and help from family to buy his recording equipment and set up a mini studio in his room so he would not have to pay anybody to record music.

A few weeks after he got all of his recording equipment set up, he recorded his first song in his room titled “Rock”, which he then posted the song snippet on Instagram and it gained 350k views causing it to go going viral on his Instagram account which got him seen by Wealth Nation/Sony Management. He then went to Atlanta to work with Sony affiliates to talk about how they could expand his brand and after that took place, he felt like they were a supportive team and would help take his career to the next level.

With unwavering determination, RockstarRican embarked on a relentless pursuit of his musical dreams. He spent countless hours honing his skills, writing lyrics, and perfecting his craft. His unique blend of rap, singing, and song writing resonated with listeners, and it wasn’t long before his talent began to catch the attention of industry insiders.

RockstarRican’s breakthrough came with the release of his debut single “Talk Too Much” in 2021, which surpassed over 400,000 streams on Spotify in just 30 days. It quickly garnered attention on various streaming platforms. The song showcased his remarkable ability to seamlessly blend genres, infusing elements of hip-hop, R&B, and pop into a cohesive and captivating sound. With his distinctive voice, poignant lyrics, and infectious energy, RockstarRican quickly amassed a devoted fanbase. Some of his hit numbers are – Fly 4 the Night, V.I.P, Overtime, Ratchet, Slide, Big Things, Hot Now, Hit the Club, Nice Things and Move and so on.

As his popularity soared, RockstarRican collaborated with renowned artists and producers, further expanding his sonic repertoire. His music effortlessly crossed boundaries, effortlessly fusing different musical styles and cultures. RockstarRican’s lyrical prowess and ability to craft melodies that lingered in the minds of his listeners set him apart from his peers, solidifying his status as a musical force to be reckoned with.

The popularity of RockstarRican can be attributed to his unique style, lyrical prowess, and the cultural impact of the music they produce. He has been instrumental in bringing attention to important social and political issues, such as racism, police brutality, and poverty. He uses his music as a platform to address these issues, and his messages have resonated with fans around the world. RockstarRican has been inspired by the style, beats, and lyrical flow of rappers and has incorporated these elements into their own music.

He uses his lyrical versatility and life experiences to break into the broad public eye. His love for his work and ambition to carve out a role for himself in life fueled his drive to follow his goals and passions. With aggressive but sensual rap lyrics and a vintage sound and style, RockstarRican is making a statement by constantly reminding his audience how vital his passion for music is to him.

For RockstarRican, rapping is a form of poetry with rhythm and music and the first noticeable thing about his rapping is he gets his ideas written down. He uses his imagination and writes down every idea, thought and feeling that enters his mind. His song lyrics come from his brainstorming sessions.  His voice is the most engrossing element of his artistry. It isn’t just the way he raps or what he says, but the bark, growl and gruff of his voice makes every line of his songs even more chilling.

Beyond his musical talents, RockstarRican is also admired for his authenticity and genuine connection with his fans. He remains grounded and humble, never forgetting the journey that led him to where he is today. His willingness to share his own vulnerabilities and life experiences through his music resonates deeply with his audience, forging a bond that goes beyond mere entertainment.

RockstarRican’s impact extends beyond the realm of music. He uses his platform to raise awareness about important social issues and encourages his fans to embrace their individuality and follow their dreams fearlessly. His inspiring journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, self-belief, and unwavering passion.

As RockstarRican continues to evolve as an artist, his fanbase grows, and his influence reaches new heights. With each new release, he captivates listeners with his lyrical prowess and his ability to craft powerful, emotionally charged songs that leave a lasting impression. A popular figure among the masses, he has been quite a sought-after influencer for the crowds. Due to his unique activities on social media, he has garnered 959K followers on his Instagram in a short span of time! Music Influencers like him are attracting extremely large audiences, which enables him to enjoy a high degree of trust with leading brands with whom he has collaborated.

With his unwavering dedication, boundless talent, and inspiring journey, RockstarRican has solidified his place as one of the most exciting and influential artists of our time. As he continues to push boundaries and challenge the status quo, there’s no doubt that his star will continue to rise, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.

T.I. Confirms Final Album Includes NBA YoungBoy But Boosie Badazz Collab LP “Missed The Window” 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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T.I. has confirmed he is moving beyond his rap career and releasing a “final” double album before exploring other ventures.  

The rapper and actor revealed it’s time to “evolve” beyond music after more than 25 years in the industry. T.I. opened up about his future plans during a recent appearance on the We In Miami podcast.  

“It’s time to evolve beyond a career as a rapper,” he began before adding, there are “a lot more people who are carrying the torch and pushing the culture forward.” 

He also confirmed his upcoming album Kill the King, will be his last. However, the project will be a double album with a B-side titled Kiss the King. 

T.I. also revealed one of the lead singles is a track featuring NBA YoungBoy. However, he said he can “probably guarantee” the song is not what fans would expect from the duo.  

He also shed light on his much-hyped joint album with Boosie Badazz. “The time that we had allotted for it we kinda passed by it,” he shared. It was ready, we got the records. It so much that goes into releasing a record besides just releasing a record.” 

According to T.I. he and Boosie “missed the window,” but there’s still hope. “Not saying that the window can’t present itself again,” he added. “We have a very healthy relationship.” 

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T.I. previously shared the title Kill The King is “a metaphor for killing the ego.” He told Insider his “King of the South” moniker “ruffled feathers,’ which worked both in his favor and detriment.  

“Now, I just feel like I’m at the place I am in my life where I’ve learned to starve the ego. That’s where peace is. ‘Kill the King’ is a metaphor for that philosophy,” T.I. explained. 

As for what’s next for T.I., elsewhere during the interview, he spoke on his new independent comedy movie “Da ‘Partments.”  

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Gucci Mane Shuts Down Aspiring Rapper’s Freestyle In Viral Video 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: Music News
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An aspiring rapper seized the opportunity to rap for Gucci Mane but was quickly shut down. 

The Atlanta-based artist previewed his new album Breath Of Fresh Air at a recent listening party. However, one budding rapper thought it would be an ideal chance to catch the attention of the 1017 Global Music record label owner.  

A clip from the event circulated online showing the plucky rapper attempting to spit for Gucci Mane. However, Gucci wasn’t trying to hear him. The clip begins with the rapper giving it his best shot before being interrupted after just a few seconds. 

“Not right now,” Gucci Mane told the man as the DJ began playing, shutting the man off mid-verse. Check out the clip below. 

https://twitter.com/shannonsharpeee/status/1714429051161751943?s=20

Gucci Mane released his 16th studio album, Breath Of Fresh Air, on October 17. The project was originally slated to drop last week but was pushed back due to undisclosed reasons. The 24-track project includes guest appearances from the likes of J. Cole, 21 Savage, Young Dolph, Lil Baby, Key Glock, Kodak Black, DaBaby and more. 

In an interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, Gucci Mane revealed he took a different approach to the album. 

“I’m just not in the mood to hear a whole bunch of drilling and killing, and this and that,” he explained. “Not saying that I haven’t did that before, but just right now, just let me just kind of lead by example and show people that it is more to rap about than my opps and all that.” 

Listen to Breath of Fresh Air below.

Blueface Explains Why He Posted Photo Of Son’s Hernia On Social Media 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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Despite initially denying it, Blueface has admitted that he posted a nude photo of his newborn son with Chrisean Rock, claiming it was an attempt to force her to seek treatment for the baby’s hernia.  

The “Thotiana” rapper was widely condemned by social media users horrified over the post. While Blueface initially said his phone was hacked, he confessed to posting the image during a recent appearance on The Jason Lee Show.  

According to Blueface, he wanted to force Chrisean Rock to take their baby’s health seriously. 

“It was taking way too long,” Blueface explained in a clip from the upcoming interview. “I told her, ‘Don’t come back to California until you go into the next appointment and it gets done. Time just kept going. She back in California. I didn’t post it ’till damn near a month.” 

Blueface claimed Chrisean Jr. Was due to undergo surgery on the day he performed with Chrisean and his current partner, the mother of his first two children, Jaidyn Alexis.  

He continued, “She’s [Chrisean Rock] like, ‘OK, I’ma tell them to take him, I’ma make it,’ Hell no, you better take that baby and do that. It’s an expensive baby. So that’s the reason she went by herself that time. I literally told her, ‘No, you have to do this.'” 

Check out the clip below. 

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Blueface Denied He Posted Photo of Son’s Hernia

Blueface shared the close-up of his sons’s genitalia in a post on X (Formerly Twitter) last month.  

“She is a bad mother yes she is unfit,” he wrote. “She been pushing the surgery back missing the appointments so she can do what she wants I went to b more thinking it’s surgery they talking about she missed the appointment.”   

However, the following day, the Los Angeles native announced his phone was stolen. “My phone was stolen yesterday,” he wrote. “I just got a new one guys im back my twitter was hacked.” 

Chrisean Rock was outraged over the photo and threatened legal action.  

“Bro, you’re going to go to jail,” she said two days after Blueface posted the image. “And I’m pressing charges. Yea, I’m doing all that, bro. I don’t need no money, no child support, but I’m pressing charges. You wanna play this police game, OK.” 

Jada Pinkett Smith Claims Tupac And Will Smith Would Have Been “Really Good Friends” 

By: London Jennn Updated Category: News
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Jada Pinkett Smith says Tupac Shakur “approved” of her relationship with Will Smith and believes the pair would have become close friends if the West Coast icon survived the 1996 shooting that took his life.  

The Matrix actress is still spilling the tea ahead of her new memoir Worthy. She opened up about what ‘Pac thought of her dating the Emancipation actor during a recent appearance on Jay Shetty’s On Purpose podcast.  

“If ‘Pac had survived Vegas, he and Will would’ve ended up being really good friends,” she shared. “They would’ve had a lot to offer each other. Funny enough, Will was the only person when I started dating him, ‘Pac never said anything.” 

According to Jada Pinkett Smith, Tupac’s silence indicated she had his blessing to date Will Smith.   

“If I dated anybody else, ‘Pac had something to say,” she added. “He didn’t think anybody was good enough, which I understand. But when I started dating Will, he didn’t say anything. Which meant to me, in his own way, he approved. He didn’t say anything. Not a word, which made me believe he approved.” 

Meanwhile, Pinkett Smith’s award-winning Facebook show Red Table Talk is set to return in 2024.  

“The Red Table is coming back. We are in the works of a situation right now. So next year,” she revealed during a livestream on TalkShopLive. “We could not do the red table while I was writing this book and while Willow was on her music journey.” 

The Smiths may have even more revelations coming. “Will and I are talking about writing a book, together, called ‘Don’t Try This at Home,’” Pinkett Smith told Extra.  

Blueface Downplays “Old News” After Chrisean Rock Drops Diss Track With Lil Mabu

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News
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Blueface acted unbothered by his ex Chrisean Rock’s diss track on Tuesday (October 17). The polarizing rapper responded to the barrage of interactions he faced on social media following the release of Chrisean Rock and Lil Mabu’s song “Mr. Take Ya B####.”

“Y’all that infatuated with old news,” Blueface wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).

The music video for “Mr. Take Ya B####” dropped on Monday (October 16). It quickly racked up more than 1 million views on YouTube. The song featured Lil Mabu bragging about taking Blueface’s lady and Chrisean Rock dissing her baby daddy.

“F### Blueface, I had to find a new bae/Yeah, aight, wit my boo, f### whatchu say/I might put it in his face ‘cause he want a taste/This newborn p#### make my water break/Only thing that’s broke is my f###### water/Gave birth to my kid, but I hate his father/I used to f### wit Blue’s now I f### wit ones/Only f### with white boys that be toting guns,” she rapped.

Blueface is the father of Chrisean Rock’s first child, who was born in September. The former couple’s contentious relationship has frequently played out in the public eye for the past two years.

Watch the “Mr. Take Ya B####” video below.

Lil Wayne’s Ex-Assistant Agrees To Undergo Exam After Accusing Rapper Of Assault

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News
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Lil Wayne’s former assistant accepted the rapper’s request to face the scrutiny of a doctor in their legal battle. According to court documents obtained by Radar Online, Weezy’s ex-assistant Andrew Williams agreed to a medical examination to assess Williams’ emotional distress and injuries from an alleged assault.

Last year, Williams claimed he was punched by Lil Wayne while trying to intervene in an argument between the rapper and a pilot on a private jet. Williams said he was fired after the incident. The ex-assistant contended he suffered injuries from the jewelry on Weezy’s hand.

“The combination of a closed fist and the numerous rings and large jewelry on the hands of [Lil Wayne] caused great harm to [Williams],” the plaintiff’s attorneys wrote in the lawsuit.

Williams sued Lil Wayne for assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, wrongful termination and negligence. Young Money Entertainment and Signature Flight Support were also named as defendants in the lawsuit. Williams sought undisclosed damages for his medical bills.

Lil Wayne denied any wrongdoing. The BMI Icon Award winner wanted a judge to throw out the lawsuit.

His lawyers argued he acted in self-defense and caused no injuries. They insisted his ex-assistant was not wrongfully terminated.

Kanye West Concert In Italy Postponed Amid War Vets Protesting His Hitler Remarks

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News
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Italian officials postponed Kanye West’s controversial performance at the RCF Arena in Reggio Emilia. Weather concerns and a train strike disrupted plans for the event, which was scheduled for Friday (October 20).

“Given the fact that a rail strike was planned the same day and that heavy rain is due, it was thought prudent to postpone the event,” a spokesperson for the Reggio Emilia prefecture told the Daily Mail. “Our aim [is] to ensure the safety and security of all and if there is a transport issue, then the concert cannot go ahead safely. And as it is open air, the heavy rain forecast would have also created problems. The organizers have been given an alternative date of October 27, and we are waiting to hear back if it is acceptable to them.”

The postponement followed criticism from Italian war veterans, who called out officials for allowing Kanye to perform in Reggio Emilia. National Association of Italian Partisans members expressed outrage over Ye’s past comments about Adolf Hitler. The rapper/producer said he “saw good things about Hitler” in a 2022 interview.

“I hope this concert does not go ahead,” Reggio Emilia’s ANPI regional president Ermete Fiaccadori said. “This artist has a large following of youngsters, but his message is disquieting. I’m speechless that he cannot understand what he Is saying, broadcasting a gross misunderstanding of what Adolf Hitler was in the course of history. I am all for artistic liberty but what Kanye West says and does leave me shocked. As an organization, we condemn this concert totally and we are very concerned about what message it conveys.”

He added, “And before anyone says it, this isn’t censorship because we are all in favor of liberty, but we are talking about a concert that is totally out of order. Reggio has a long history of fighting against the ideas of Adolf Hitler and many lost their lives as a result.”

Listen to the remarks that upset Italian war veterans below.

Blueface Alludes To Smash & Dash Flings With Megan Thee Stallion & Coi Leray—Is He Cappin’?

By: Devon Jefferson Updated Category: Rumors
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Blueface is back at it again, this time instead of Chrisean Rock, Jaidyn Alexis is by his side as he confesses to alleged affairs with Megan Thee Stallion and Coi Leray.

During his second appearance on The Jason Lee Show, Blueface and Alexis discussed a number of topics including the California rapper’s mother’s attempts to matchmake him with Houston rap star Megan Thee Stallion. While rehashing the situation, Blueface slipped up and seemingly revealed he had an intimate encounter with Meg some years ago.

“I already been there done that,” Blueface said in part when asked about Meg. When Lee pressed Blueface about his comment, blatantly asking whether he had sexual intercourse with Meg, the “Thotiana” rapper denied before adding, “I might’ve got some head, a long time ago—Jaidyn you know about that.”

Blueface went on to also confirm he had also “been there done that” with Leray also while Alexis became visibly upset. Also, can anyone tell us what’s the deal with the black surgical gloves?

Peep the clip below.

https://twitter.com/KameronBennett/status/1714328611472224728

6 Hip-Hop Artists Associated With CBD and Delta-8 (and Why)

By: Staff Writer Updated Category: Uncategorized
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The wave of CBD and Delta-8 products has swept across the globe, offering natural alternatives to conventional pharmaceuticals which have cultivated intrigue amongst a vast audience. From a neighborhood health store to corporate boardrooms, these green solutions are making their mark.

What’s more fascinating is that prominent names from the music industry are being sparked by this trend. Capitalizing on their influence, many stars have embarked on ventures connected to CBD and Delta-8 products. Let’s delve into this captivating blend of rhythm and green therapy in this post.

The rise of CBD and Delta-8

Everybody’s buzzing about CBD and Delta-8 these days. You can’t avoid it – they’re popping up all over the place, from online shops to the corner store. So what’s the 411 on these products and why are they blowing up in popularity?

CBD (yeah, that stands for cannabidiol) comes straight from cannabis plants. This stuff is famous for helping out with everything from sleepless nights to crippling pain – without leaving you feeling stoned. Then, there’s Delta-8 THC which gives a bit of a buzz while still delivering those medicinal perks like CBD.

Sick and tired of heavy-duty prescription meds getting you down with their side effects? That’s where these green resources come into play. They’re giving folks an option that fits right into their everyday routine without any drama. Whether it’s your granny using CBD oil for her arthritis or your buddy munching on some Delta-8 edibles during break time at work for those nerves – you can bet these remedies are catching on big time across different crowds.

No surprise there, as they prove effective with nearly zero bad vibes compared to regular drugs. With ongoing research continually revealing more good news about their uses and benefits, it’s clear that CBD and Delta-8 are reshaping the landscape of health and wellness. Even skeptics are finding it hard not to sit up and take notice as testimonials roll in.

But here’s where things take an even more surprising turn; this green rush has caught the attention of the hip-hop world. We’re seeing power players from the scene stepping into this budding industry – and making some serious moves too. And why not? It’s fresh, exciting, and full of potential.

Hip-Hop’s Green Venture

Hip-hop has always been more than just a music genre. It’s about culture, innovation, and adapting to trends that resonate with its audience. Naturally then, as this green revolution of CBD and Delta-8 gained steam, it didn’t take long for hip-hop to catch the wave.

Now we’re seeing big names in the game investing their capital – and rep – in the market. These ain’t just endowments or detached business moves. By attaching their name to these products, artists do more than endorse; they give credibility, opening up these alternatives to a wider audience.

But why would prestigious artists risk venturing into such a contested space? Simple: They’ve seen firsthand the impact CBD and Delta-8 can have on people’s lives – from helping with creative processes (think writing lyrics or brainstorming beats) to supporting overall wellbeing. It’s a way for them to give back while doing good business.

Intriguingly enough, some are even creating unique blends that reflect their brand and personality – transforming fans’ experience of their product beyond mere consumption into more immersive interactions. But who exactly are these pioneering artists?

Snoop Dogg

When it comes to the intersection of hip hop and cannabis, Snoop Dogg is a pioneering figure. His product line, Leafs by Snoop, includes not only marijuana products but also ventures into the world of CBD offerings to delight fans and connoisseurs alike.

Soulja Boy

Known for his infectious beats, Soulja Boy adds another rhythm to the mix with his foray into CBD. Teaming up with Bespoke Extracts, he’s got his own line of CBD products on the market following years as an advocate for its benefits – creating fresh opportunities for fans and fellow users.

Wiz Khalifa

Khali-fa-la-blasting into the green market is Wiz with his brand Khalifa Kush Enterprises. Offering a range of cannabis products with a side-serving of select CBD products, Wiz caters for those curious about dipping their toes into this industry without fully investing in the THC effects.

RiFF RAFF

Fanning the flames of positive CBD advocacy, RiFF RAFF has joined forces with bioMDplus. More than just contributing a unique brand, he is also involved in education – aiming to make people aware of the versatility and benefits of CBD use.

Future

And then there’s Future. His strategy involves filing legal intent-to-use trademark applications to launch an expansive line-up ranging from vape pens to medicated oils under Evol – set to hit shelves shortly. This move showcases his understanding of the diverse consumer interests and desire for differentiated product choices.

Dr. Dre

Dr. Dre hasn’t launched his own line but instead backs Hemptiff’s existing range. The motive? Spreading awareness about these valuable products among a wider user base while steering clear of regulatory complications that come with launching fresh merchandise.

By aligning their names with these products, these trail-blazers are not just capitalizing on a trend but playing pivotal roles in demystifying CBD and Delta-8 in society – shining a brighter light on its potential every step of the way.

Meet CitiLimitz, The New Boy Group Coming Straight Out Of Chattanooga

By: Shirley Ju Updated Category: Breeding Ground
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CitiLimitz is the newest boy group on the scene, and they’re here to bring back that feel-good, nostalgic R&B feeling we all know and love. The trio consists of three brothers from Chattanooga, Tennessee: 18-year-old Deshundre (aka Dre) and 17-year-old twins Amari (aka A.T) and Amarion (aka Marion). All members have been singing since the day they were born, and they can’t wait to showcase their vocals and talents to audiences all around the world.

Dre adds, “It’s more to life.”

The group was first discovered by Sound of Young America CEO Kevin Wales, best known for his success with multi-Platinum groups such as 112 and Jagged Edge. Just last year, Wales partnered with Max Gousse and Monica Payne of Artistry Records to sign CitiLimitz to Republic Records/UMG. In fact, Gousse plans to turn the boys into superstars — just like he did with Saweetie.

CitiLimitz’ debut single is titled “Say No More,” which was released in September. Produced by the legendary Tricky Stewart, the record serves as a teaser to their forthcoming debut album, with additional production from A-list producers such as Damon Thomas, Hitmaka, and Rico Love.

The guys are also stoked to be embarking on their first tour, Scream Tour 2024, alongside a slew of talented rising acts.

AllHipHop spoke with CitiLimitz for their first interview ever. Read below as we discuss being on The Ellen Show, signing to Artistry/Republic Records, working with Tricky Stewart on their debut single, their album, going on their first tour, and more!

AllHipHop: How would you guys describe your sound?

Marion: Me personally, I’m a soulful, reggae-type singer.

A.T: I sing most of the high stuff. I do a lot of the Sopranos notes basically.

Dre: Me, I’m the natural guy. Real fun.

Marion: As a group, it’s R&B, pop, Hip-Hop.

All: We try to do everything.

AllHipHop: Being from Chattanooga, Tennessee, what was that like growing up?

A.T: It’s not a good story, I could say that. We’re from a small, country town. It’s a lot of stuff going on down there. We love our city, but we try to stay away from all the craziness that is going on in Chattanooga.

All: We love our city to death.

AllHipHop: When did you guys fall in love with music?

A.T: We’ve been singing all our lives. We started off with gospel. That’s what our roots come from, singing gospel. Our grandfather’s a pastor, so we really learned from them.

Marion: Gospel singing, quartet music.

A.T: We really come from a gospel background, but we’ve been singing all our lives. Actually at first, I didn’t want to sing.

Marion: Great story, let me tell it. These two never wanted to sing. Mom and pops didn’t force them, but they’re like “it’d be great…” I’m the only one wanting to sing, they wanted to do sports. Basketball, football, things like that. Music’s always been in my heart.

A.T: Together, we’ve been singing as a group, as CitiLimitz for six years. In the beginning, I

didn’t want to sing.

AllHipHop: What happened that made you come around?

A.T: After we went on The Ellen Show in 2019, I was like, “Yeah, this is what I want to do. This is what I’m going to pursue.” That’s the first time I said yeah, I’ma do this.

AllHipHop: How did y’all end up on “The Ellen Show?”

Marion: Oh man. It’s a really long story, but I’ll make it short. Anthony Hamilton’s background singers, they formed an R&B group called The Hamiltones. They came to a local spot in Chattanooga, and we love The Hamiltones. Shout out to The Hamiltones. We ended up popping out to their show. We stay singing one of their songs “Best Friend.” My baby brother loves that song.

We were really finna go up there and just sing, but they saw us and they recognized us. They knew us from our old videos or going viral on the internet. They’re like. “Just wait. Come with us backstage after the show.” After the show, we went backstage and sang for them. Angela Rye from CNN, she posted on her page and it went viral. The producer from Ellen had called us the next day and asked us to be on the show.

At first, they told us we weren’t going to meet Ellen, so it was basically all a surprise. We were going to do a podcast, say, “We love Ellen,” and sing a little bit. But they surprised us in the crowd. It’s on the internet right now, y’all can check it out on YouTube.

AllHipHop: How was it being on television that young?

A.T: Man, it was scary for me. It was my first time being on TV. I didn’t know what to do. We had two minutes to learn the song. It was really stressful. I can only speak for myself. It was my first time ever being on a TV show, there was no time to learn anything. “Y’all gon’ do this interview here…”

Dre: They called the next day. We had to learn the song the same day.

Marion: They made us pick out five songs to send it to them, then they were going to pick out one.

Dre: I don’t even remember that, that’s crazy. [laughs]

AllHipHop: Why are you guys called CitiLimitz?

A.T: We want to get young children and people in general outside of their “city limits.” Although we love our city, it’s easy to get pulled into rough aspects of it.

Dre: There’s more to life than a box. It’s okay to hop out of that box.

Marion: It’s real.

AllHipHop: Talk about being discovered by Kevin Wales.

Marion: Man, it was crazy. It was great meeting him. We call him Unc now, that’s how great of a bond we have with this legendary [man]. This is a real life legend we are talking about.

Dre: Being with him and learning so much within two years…

A.T: Not even about the industry, but being a man. Growing up as a young man, all that. He’s a really great person.

Dre: He’s like another father figure.

Both: Yes, forreal.

Marion: He’ll take the clothes off his backs for us. Feed us, let us get a house. We’re really thankful for being with him and him taking us in. We really love him for that.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by CitiLimitz (@citilimitz_official)

AllHipHop: How’d he find you guys?

A.T: We had a manager we were working with, one of his best friends had inboxed our father. He was saying that Kevin wanted to work with us. My pops was communicating with him, but we were already in contract with another manager we were working with. After we got out of that, it’s been magic ever since.

AllHipHop: Congrats on signing to Artistry and Republic, that’s huge!

Dre: When we sat down, we were excited. It was our first deal.

A.T: It’s something we’ve really been dreaming about. It’s been a lot of times where people tell us that “this is finna happen, we gon’ get signed this time.” For six years they’ve been telling us, we just got signed last year in August. For me, it was a relief, because we’ve been turned down so much and lied to a lot.

Dre: My experience, I cried.

Marion: We were actually tricked.

Dre: Ooh, I remember that!

A.T: We go to LA, we go to Republic and we perform for them. She said she liked us and all that. We left the building and we sat in the car.

Dre: Hold on before all that, he was so nervous. He’s like, “did we do a good job?”

A.T: We’re sitting in the car with our head down, hoping we did a good job. They came to the car and said,  “Y’all are signed to Republic Records!” We started crying from there.

Dre: It was amazing!

Marion: Beautiful moment.

A.T: One of the best moments of my life, literally. ‘Til this day, we thank y’all.

AllHipHop: Did you think you’d be signed this early?

A.T: No actually. When they told us that we had a meeting with Republic, we weren’t really excited about it because…

Marion: We’ve been let down so many times.

A.T: We’re like “okay, let’s just do it.” We weren’t really excited about it because every time we had a deal or had something coming up, it was always lies or we’d been turned down. We really weren’t excited about it.

Dre: Basically, it was unexpected.

All: Very unexpected.

AllHipHop: How was it linking with Tricky Stewart on your debut single, “Say No More”?

Marion: First of all, “Say No More”? Oh my god, it’s a banger. Working with another legend, another great man. One of the best producers in the game, if not the best producer in the game right now. Tricky Stewart, he worked on most of our whole album. We were down there from January 15th, for a whole month. We were going to two different studio sessions, from 12pm to 6am, every day for 30 days working hard on our album. Working with him, it’s fun and comfortable.

Dre: Working with Tricky Stewart is fun, but you gon’ work. You gon’ put in that work. He gets things through your head and makes it easy for you. It’s going to be hard work, but he’s going to butter it up and fix it up for you. Do everything gracefully, he’s a great producer.

A.T: It was fun working with him, an amazing experience. We’ll never forget it.

Marion: And make sure y’all stream “Say No More”!

AllHipHop: Did you learn anything from being in the studio with Tricky?

All: Of course.

Marion: When we came down here, we weren’t recording too much. Honestly, in the studio working, it helps you a lot. You learn a lot. It gets easier for you. After 10 minutes, we were knocking songs out.

Dre: We were doing two songs a day, three songs a day. Knocking them out. It got easier for us, it wasn’t really too long that we’ve been working hard.

AllHipHop: What can we expect from your album? You guys worked with a lot of big producers.

Marion: We have “Say No More.” We have a couple more songs like “Best Part of Me,” “Shout” we just recorded.

Dre: Man, this album is crazy!

Marion: Damon Thomas, he’s a producer for that. Another great producer, man. Both of them, Tricky Stewart and Damon Thomas, we call both of them Unc.

Dre: It’s like a big family. Everybody that we meet, it becomes a family. Everybody we meet: “you my bro. That’s my sister. That’s Unc.” Working with Damon Thomas is amazing.

Marion: It’s amazing, he’s a funny guy. When you do a song, he’s going to jump up and start dancing, doing all that.

A.T: We also got another song from Hitmaka, another big producer/artist. Whatever you like, it’s a magical album.

Dre: We got a lot of surprises for y’all, most definitely. Stay tuned, it’s coming. Once again, R&B, pop, and Hip Hop. In one album, we have everything.

AllHipHop: What does it mean to be opening on The Scream Tour?

A.T: We are so excited! We’re so excited to be on the Scream Tour. Once again, thank you to our people, our team for helping us out with this. Our first tour! It’s really big.

Marion: We’re the underdogs, so we can real life prove ourselves and show everybody we really them guys. When you’re looking out there, we them guys. We ready to do it.

Dre: We’re really looking forward to performing on The Scream Tour. We’ll be performing our single and a couple more songs from the album. Y’all come out there, get them tickets, turn up with us.

AllHipHop: Have you guys been rehearsing?

All: Yes, everyday.

Marion: Work out, getting our bodies right.

A.T: Forreal forreal. We’re getting prepared for it, so we’re going to be ready. Y’all come out, y’all gone love it.

AllHipHop: What do each of you bring to the table?

A.T: I bring the looks, talent, everything. I dress the best, I dance the best. I bring everything, they really my backup singers. That’s all that is, I’m really everything in one. [laughs]

Marion: I’m the laidback, the soulful… I’m trying to touch all the women. I’m trying to touch all the ladies. I’m trying to put that feeling in their soul.

Dre: I ain’t gotta say too much, you gon’ see for yourself. Come to the Scream Tour, y’all gon’ see.

AllHipHop: Any goals for yourselves?

A.T: My goal is to have longevity in the music business, that’s all. Longevity. Hopefully when I’m 30 years old, I don’t have to worry about anything else. I want to make it to where my grandkids ‘kids can be successful and won’t have to worry about anything. That’s my goal.

Marion: My goal is same with him, longevity, but I want to real life touch the world. I want this group to touch the world. I want to bring back that passion, that type of crying. Like Michael Jackson, I want this group to bring that back to the world.

Dre: They basically said everything. I feel like we can really take over the world, it’s going to happen. As long as we keep God first, it’s going to happen.

YNW Melly Retrial Moves Forward With New Prosecutor From XXXTentacion Case

By: Justin Ivey Updated Category: News
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The Broward County State Attorney’s Office found a new prosecutor for YNW Melly’s double murder case. Assistant State Attorney Alixandra Buckelew revealed her assignment to the case at a court hearing on Tuesday (October 17).

According to the Miami Herald, Buckelew previously worked on the XXXTentacion murder case. She was one of the prosecutors who secured convictions of XXXTentacion’s killers.

Buckelew requested more time to become familiar with YNW Melly’s case at Tuesday’s hearing. The defense pushed back against any more delays, citing their client’s right to a speedy trial.

The Broward County State Attorney’s Office had to recruit Buckelew after a Florida judge removed former lead prosecutor Kristine Bradley from YNW Melly’s case. Judge John Murphy refused to let Bradley stay on the case due to concerns about her getting called as a witness in the retrial.

YNW Melly’s lawyers convinced Judge Murphy to remove Bradley by accusing the Broward County State Attorney’s Office of prosecutorial misconduct. The defense hoped the judge would dismiss their client’s case entirely but considered Bradley’s recusal to be a victory.

“While we believe that a mistrial and full dismissal is the appropriate course of action, we’re gratified the court did not permit Ms. Bradley to continue as lead prosecutor,” attorney Raven Liberty said. “We will let the rarity of this kind of decision by the court speak for itself.”

YNW Melly, whose real name is Jamell Demons, was tried for murder over the summer. Prosecutors accuse him of killing his friends YNW Juvy and YNW Sakchaser in 2018. The rapper’s first trial ended with a hung jury.

Jury selection for YNW Melly’s retrial is scheduled to begin on Wednesday (October 18). The process is expected to take several weeks.

YNW Melly has remained in jail since his 2019 arrest. He maintains his innocence.

Blueface Claims “Being Gay Is A Choice”

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News
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Blueface has joined the LGBTQIA conversation, stating on Jason Lee’s self-titled podcast that “being gay is a choice.” Lee dropped a clip of the episode, where the rapper appears with his childhood sweetheart, Jaidyn Alexis.

The Instagram caption reads, “EXCLUSIVE TEA: I’ve been working on building my own network and all new original content at @hollywoodunlocked so I’ve started bringing all my content in house starting with the @jasonleeshow! Season 2 premiere starts this week with @bluefasebabyy  and @officialjaidynalexxis !”

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During the conversation, the Hollywood Unlocked host asked Blueface what he would do if his son is gay. Without hesitation, the controversial West Coast rapper said he believes people choose to be gay.  Lee promptly says that’s true for some people but not all.

The clip also shows Lee asking Alexis why she stays with Blueface, especially with Chrisean Rock in the picture. The full episode arrives on Wednesday (October 18).

T.I. & Tiny Score Major Victory In Sabrina Peterson Lawsuit—But Their Fight Isn’t Over

By: Kyle Eustice Updated Category: News
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T.I. and Tiny Harris have been embroiled in a legal battle with a former friend, Sabrina Peterson, for years. But according to Rolling Stone, the famous couple just scored a major victory against Peterson. As reporter Nancy Dillion explained in a tweet fired off Tuesday (October 17), “In a loss for Sabrina Peterson, judge ruled Tuesday she must pay T.I. and Tiny a whopping $96,703 to cover their legal bills in getting 5 of the 7 claims in Peterson’s original lawsuit dismissed T.I. and Tiny wanted $116,902. Peterson argued no fees should be granted.”

While that’s good news for the Harris family, they still have two other cases to fight. On Monday (October 16), T.I. and Tiny finally filed their answer to Peterson’s 2021 defamation lawsuit, claiming they were being truthful and had “no malice” when they branded their assault accuser a liar. Peterson accused T.I. and Tiny of harming her reputation when they denied the Hustle Gang founder once held a gun to her head and subjected women to sexual and physical abuse.

The couple reportedly waited to respond because it was only in June that California’s 2nd Appellate District “spiked” five of Peterson’s seven causes of action, leaving only defamation and invasion of privacy. The court rejected claims for intentional and negligent.

In Peterson’s complaint, she claimed Tip held a gun to her head and said, “B####, I’ll kill you” after she got into an argument with his assistant. She posted about the alleged assault on her Instagram account in January 2021 and also shared video and screen shots purportedly showing other Atlanta women accusing them of sexual and physical abuse.

T.I., Tiny and Shekinah Jones Anderson, another friend, initially responded to Peterson through social media. Tiny’s post included a photo of T.I. posing with Peterson’s 8-year-old son. She wrote in the caption, “Hold up. So you want your abuser to train your sons? He was just uncle 2 years ago… now when did you say my husband assaulted you? Did you change your mind or change it back? What’s up wit you today Pooh?… You strange. Everybody know you been special.”

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Just a few days later, T.I. and Tiny posted a joint statement denying Peterson’s claims. Tip then shared an Instagram video that went viral.

“Whatever we ever have done has been done with consensual adults who into what we into and like what we like,” he said at the time. “We want something, we know exactly where to go to get it. We ain’t never forced nobody, we ain’t never drugged nobody against their will. We ain’t never held nobody against their will. We never made nobody do anything. We never trafficked anything. Well, sexually traffic, anything. I ain’t ever raped nobody.”

Peterson claimed she was “inundated with harassing and threatening Instagram messages” following their remarks. She said the couple’s denials caused Peterson “to be shunned by clients” and exposed her to “hatred, ridicule, and contempt.”

But T.I. and Tiny remained defiant, saying, “tTe alleged defamatory statements attributed to defendants are true and/or substantially true. There was no malice conveyed by the publication of the allegedly defamatory statements and plaintiff is accordingly barred from recovery.”

Fat Joe Shows Support For Roc Nation Casino Bid With Surprise Hell’s Kitchen Appearance

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News
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Fat Joe is a multi-platinum selling-rapper behind hits such as “All the Way Up” and “Lean Back,” but he’s also helped bolster the careers of DJ Khaled, Remy Ma and Big Pun. Now, the businessman is lending his support to Roc Nation as they make their bid to build a casino in the center of Times Square.

As previously reported, Jay-Z and Roc Nation are part of a team interested in opening New York City’s first casino in the old MTV building located at 1515 Broadway.

The Roc, SL Green and Caesars Entertainment, who started their bids in 2022, are going against half a dozen other developers who’ve also submitted proposals.

There’s been push back against the bid because many think it will ruin the city and make it less “family friendly.” Earlier this year, representatives from Roc Nation argued nothing could be further from the truth, explaining they would be corporately responsible for bringing $115 million to “diverse theater programs” in its bid to open Caesars Palace Times Square.

Jay-Z’s company also claimed the casino would help mass transit, protect the culture of Broadway and invest in sanitation to clean up the busy area. According to PIX 11, Fat Joe has joined the campaign to help Roc Nation secure the bid by going around Hell’s Kitchen, the residential neighborhood right next to Times Square, to persuade some of the residents to advocate for the Roc.

He told them not only would it benefit the big businesses on 42nd Street but also revitalize the community and bring in hundreds of jobs. He brought free food and flyers that said “It’s Time, Times Square” to Manhattan Plaza, an apartment building on 43rd and 9th.

The Terror Squad leader said if Roc Nation gets the casino option, diversity, equity and inclusion efforts will be in full effect.  

“You’ll have Black and Brown leadership,” he promised, adding, “ready to take care of all the arts” and “give hundreds of jobs out in this community”.

He also reminded them that if they don’t support the people of color, the Great White Way will stay the same: “That’s the same people who’ve owned it for 150 years.”

Not everyone appreciated the move nor the casino proposal. Aleta LaFargue, the president of the Tenants’ Association, called the casino a “predatory” move and would “do nothing but harm to our community” per W42st.com. She’s urging for people to not sign up to support it.

“How could you simultaneously invite members of the community and surprise us?” she asked. “This has most definitely been a surprise attack. As you can see, our block is filled up with people with signature clipboards, with little iPads, asking for people to sign, and then handing them flyers that say how they’re going to revitalize your community. When people think of Times Square, they don’t realize that it’s adjacent to a residential area where the people are really in jeopardy of falling prey to the predatory business that a casino is. My family is from Atlantic City, and so I know very well what the methods of casinos are, and they are not to revitalize the communities that surround them.”

But there’s a reason Roc Nation came with dinner and lunch for the residents of the 1,689-apartment complex—it reflects culture and community.

“From our perspective, the most important thing is the opportunity to break bread with people and answer questions,” Roc Nation’s Angela Rye said. “I know that when you have a conversation where people have strong opinions without breaking bread, it gets a lot more contentious and we don’t want that. We want to invite people in to receive feedback, whether it’s positive or negative or indifferent.

“Alicia Keys is a part of the Roc Nation family and she actually grew up in Manhattan Plaza. We’ve learned about this building and the incredible ways in which they’ve built and established a community. It was a place where we knew we had to come.”

J Traxx Survives Tragic Incident, Returns With Sexyy Red Featured “All She Do Is Shake”

By: Jake Crates Updated Category: Music
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In a remarkable display of resilience and determination, East St. Louis rapper J Traxx, has defied all odds after surviving a life-threatening incident. Shot in the head by an AR-15 but emerging stronger, J Traxx is making a triumphant return to the music scene with an electrifying new single dubbed, “All She Do Is Shake” featuring viral rap sensation Sexyy Red

“Getting shot in the head with an AR 15 was unexpected, it came out of nowhere, but it changed my thought patterns,” J Traxx explained.                       

“I want to do it for the benefit of others bettering themselves. I love God first and I want to repopulate the earth with great energy. I have to sacrifice myself by doing certain songs and then I’m gonna open up once I get to the next level. This will open their ears.”

“Born and raised out of East St. Louis, Illinois moving forward in my career I’m inspired to show the world that I’m talented and can rap and sing. I was playing piano at like 8 or 9,” J Traxx explained. “I love the idea that I was able to impress my mother. Entertaining her and I did it for her and when I got better at it I transferred my energy to another light. I started doing shows, trying to do radio, video, movies. I got on radio and TV and I went to venues around the city and Missouri”

Now, J Traxx is back ready to showcase his indomitable spirit and comedic side in his latest release. The new single, which features the chart-topping female rap sensation Sexyy Red, promises to be a game-changer for his hometown, showing Sexy Red is still tied into the city. With hard-hitting beats, meaningful lyrics, and the undeniable chemistry between the two artists, the track is set to captivate audiences worldwide.

“I’ve been through a lot, and this journey has only made me stronger. I want to share my story and inspire others to overcome their challenges,” said J Traxx. “But first I’m teaming up with Sexyy Red on this track which was a dream come true, I can’t wait for my fans to hear what we’ve created together.”

Sexyy Red, who took the internet by storm with her raunchy viral hits and unapologetic style, ushers in a comeback but also joins J Traxx in his unwavering commitment to his art and his fans. The track is a testament to the rapper’s ability to turn adversity into artistry, inspiring others to rise above their circumstances and pursue their dreams.

J Traxx fans can expect an accompanying animated music video for the single, which is set to release at a future date. The video, directed by , promises to be visually entertaining and complementing the song’s humous lyrics and infectious energy.

The Real Reason Drake Isn’t Rapping So Much

By: illseed Updated Category: Rumors
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In the world of entertainment, Drake has always been a hot topic, and lately, he’s got tongues wagging for a multitude of reasons. From his personal life to his stance on global issues, the Canadian superstar seems to be making headlines at every turn. But, we’re not here to discuss his son or his silence on the Israel and Palestine situation. Instead, we’ve got our ears tuned to something that’s got fans and critics alike buzzing – Drake’s evolving musical style. Hmmmmmmm…

Drizzy seems to be shifting gears, and it’s leaving some of his die-hard fans wondering if he’ll ever return to full-time rapping. In a surprising twist, Drake’s latest album, For All The Dogs, took an unexpected turn, steering away from his rap roots. The initial songs teased fans with the prospect of a classic rap album, but as the record played on, it became clear that it was filled with lots of singing.

This unexpected musical choice left a few folks feeling disappointed, especially those who were eager to see him deliver some classic Hip-Hop during this 50th year of the genre’s celebration. Even the track “Virginia Beach,” which many thought would bring back the classic Drake, turned out to be a singing love ballad.

Drake Celebrates “Full Circle Moment” After Tying Michael Jackson for Billboard Hot 100 Record

The question on everyone’s lips is “Why is Drake toying with our emotions like this?” While I can’t ask the man himself, I have gathered some insight into what might be driving his musical choices. According to one of my sources, it all comes down to business.

Apparently, it doesn’t make the best business sense for Drake to continue rapping exclusively. Hip-Hop is the number 1 musical genre, but his appeal extends far beyond the rap community. The ladies seem to be particularly smitten with his singing and that translates into even greater sales and success.

There’s also a theory floating around that it’s getting increasingly tough to compete in the Hip-Hop world if you’re primarily a rapper. The game has evolved with strict standards and rules, and if you don’t measure up with your bars, you might end up looking like a chump. So Drake, pops in – talks his sh#t and goes back to singing! Drake’s rap skills are nothing to scoff at, it’s still a tough field to dominate, especially with artists like Nick Grant and J. Cole flexing their lyrical muscles. In fact, it’s worth noting that J. Cole (fill in the blank) Drake on his own album.

So, whether you’re a fan of Drake’s rap or singing, one thing’s for sure: he’s got us all talking. And – like it or not – we’ll be eagerly awaiting his next move.

Enjoy!

Jada Pinkett Smith Says She’s “Young” But “Old” Will Smith Needs Someone To Take Care Of Him

By: AllHipHop Staff Updated Category: News
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Jada Pinkett Smith believes she and her estranged husband, Will Smith, will live together again “eventually.”

While speaking to The Times, the Gotham actress revealed that she may move back in with Will to “take care of him” when he’s older.

“I think eventually we will (live together again). I really do,” Jada Pinkett Smith told the outlet. “Will’s getting old. I’m staying quite young, but it’s getting apparent to me that he’s gonna need someone to take care of him.”

Will and Jada married in 1997. In Jada’s upcoming memoir, titled “Worthy,” the actress revealed that they had been secretly separated for seven years. She currently lives in her own house nearby to Will’s in Calabasas, California.

The “Girls Trip” star explained in her interview that she was “adamantly against divorce” because it “doesn’t feel right” for them.

“Will and I got married at an early age and we were able to make some beautiful things and some not so beautiful things,” she said. “We got to a place where we had to go our separate ways in order to break from some of those more immature fantasies of what being married was about.”

Jada Pinkett Smith continued, “Bear in mind, when we had that separation in 2016 the goal was to divorce, but divorce just didn’t feel right for either of us. We don’t know why. But here we are.”

She added that she wasn’t dating anyone else, as Will was still her “focus” and her “dynamic with him is her greatest teacher in terms of healing.”

The estranged couple share two children together: 25-year-old Jaden and 22-year-old Willow. Will also shares 30-year-old son Trey with his ex-wife Sheree Zampino.

50 Cent Trolls Diddy Over 2Pac Murder Case Using Jada Pinkett Smith Meme: “Thug Life”

By: Kershaw St. Jawnson Updated Category: News
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50 Cent has taken to social media to poke fun at Diddy after his name re-emerged in connection to the murder of Tupac Shakur. The Bad Boy mogul was identified by Keefe D as someone who put a bag on the rap legend’s head.

Diddy supposedly denied the claim, telling Tupac Shakur’s brother Mopreme “sometime in the 2000s”  his hands were clean. But 50 Cent is relentlessly teasing him about the alleged body anyway.

In his most recent post, he shared the last picture of ‘Pac before he was shot in the car with Suge Knight. Jada Pinkett Smith is superimposed in the flick. He wrote in the caption, “Thug Life, Jada in New York looking for puffy. LOL you think you gonna get away with this [ninja emoji].”

Fans responded in the comments saying what we all know, “This dude is the best at being the worst.”

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50 Cent has been on Diddy’s neck since Keefe D’s arrest for his alleged involvement in Tupac Shakur’s murder. As he said on October 10, “I hate when they leave me to talk because I always say the wrong thing. Last time they left me I said something about Puffy.” 

“I got to stop doing that kinda s###, I been talking to a therapist to try to help me with the s### I be saying. I say crazy s### out my mouth for no reason,” the rapper continued as he walked back and forth on the stage during a recent “The Final Lap” tour performance. “Oh wait … Maybe I said that s### about Puffy because he got 2Pac killed.”

The South Jamaica, Queens native then posted a clip of Keefe D saying Diddy stopped his money from coming in. The caption read, “LMAO Brother Love, show some love. Damn should have just sent this fool a few dollars.”

Pras Seeks New Trial; Claims Lawyer Used AI And Ruined His Chances At Favorable Verdict

By: Nolan Strong Updated Category: News
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After facing a significant legal setback in a conspiracy trial, Pras Michel, a foundational member of the legendary hip-hop group Fugees, is gearing up for a renewed legal battle. 

Pras wants a new trial, claiming his old attorney, David Kenner, tanked his case by using experimental AI to draft closing arguments, which resulted in him being convicted of 10 criminal counts, including conspiracy, witness tampering, and failing to register as an agent of China.

Pras was accused of aiding Malaysian entrepreneur Jho Low in his attempts to wield political clout in the United States. 

The charges against Pras were severe, painting a narrative of political maneuvering in exchange for $100 million. The courtroom drama spanned several weeks and was punctuated by testimonies from notable figures such as Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio and the former US Attorney General Jeff Sessions. 

Pras is attempting to clear his name and has aligned with the powerful law firm, ArentFox Schiff LLP, in his endeavor to argue for a new trial. 

This team boasts the expertise of Peter Zeidenberg, a renowned civil rights advocate, former US Senator Doug Jones, and Scott Peeler, Pras’s publicist Erica Dumas revealed. Their collective experience navigating intricate legal landscapes, especially in government probes and criminal defense, makes them a formidable ally for Pras in his pursuit of justice.

The new legal team claims Pras has grounds for a new trial since Kenner, who has represented artists like Suge Knight, Tory Lanez and others, used an experimental AI program to write the closing argument during Pras’ trial. 

Apparently, Kenner was not shy about using the technology. 

“We also found evidence indicating that this was true. Specifically, we identified a press release issued by a company called EyeLevel after the trial that stated: ‘EyeLevel.AI’s litigation assistance technology made history last week, becoming the first use of generative AI in a federal trial. The case involved Pras Michel, a former member of the Hip-Hop band The Fugees, who was on trial for international fraud charges,” Pras’ legal team argued. 

“It’s unconscionable that Mr. Kenner allegedly used A.I. to draft his closing arguments,” Dumas said.

Kenner boasted that EyeLevel’s AI turned “hours or days” of his legal work into “seconds.” Pras says that Kenner desperately needed the help of AI because the lawyer and his team were unprepared for closing arguments.

To make matters worse, Kenner apparently has a financial stake in EyeLevel.AI, which was not disclosed to the rapper. 

Pras feels like he was cheated, according to his reps, especially given the magnitude of the allegations against him and the fact that he is facing up to 20 years in prison.