Despite not being a smoker, Ed Sheeran once got so high with Snoop Dogg that he lost his vision.
Like many other celebs, the British singer had a smoke session with the famed cannabis connoisseur on his bucket list. However, he got more than he bargained for when he got the opportunity to tick it off his list.
Ed Sheeran got so stoned with Snoop Dogg and Russell Crowe that he couldn't see. pic.twitter.com/pcF6u69qFk
Sheeran recalled his meeting with the Death Row Records boss during a recent appearance on the Conan O’Brien Needs a Friendpodcast. The pair met backstage after Snoop performed at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena in March.
The “Shape of You” hitmaker brought his wife and her mother with him and introduced them to Snoop Dogg, who greeted his mother-in-law with, “What’s up, queen?”
However, things went south when Ed Sheeran decided to smoke with Snoop Dogg and his entourage.
“I don’t really smoke at all,” he shared. “But I was in the dressing room and they were just like blunt for blunt for blunt for blunt. I was like, I guess at some point during the night, I have to, just to say I smoked with Snoop Dogg.”
So naturally, when the Doggfather offered him some, Sheeran accepted.
“So I have a bit and I was like, I don’t feel too bad, this is good,” he explained. “Then I have a bit more, and then I have a bit more, and then I have a bit more.”
The non-smoker soon realized he had bitten off more than he could chew. “I just remember looking at him and being like, I can’t see right now,” Sheeran added.
Hollywood star Russell Crowe joined the duo backstage for the session, and Snoop gifted him and Ed Sheeran their own Death Row Records chains. Check out the video below.
Diddy sees a big future ahead for Yung Miami, who he likened to Oprah Winfrey and sees similar billionaire potential in the rapper.
The Hip-Hop mogul and the City Girl have been seeing each other for some time, and Diddy has high hopes for Yung Miami, and believes she could be among Hip-Hop’s next generation of billionaires.
He opened up about the artists he believes can follow him in achieving billionaire status during a recent interview with Billboard.
“Nipsey Hussle, to me, was that young Puff version,” Diddy began. “But one person that I can say right now is Travis Scott. I can relate to how he’s diversifying his portfolio and really understanding how to take it to the next level.”
Diddy then went on to cite Yung Miami, who last year shared her aspirations to become “the next Black Oprah.”
“I also think Yung Miami [aka Caresha Brownlee] from the City Girls,” Diddy added. “She reminds me of Oprah with the endless possibilities that she has as far as her clothing line, television shows, performances, live podcasts. I really respect both of their hustles and see them being able to break through.”
Yung Miami Says Diddy “Knows My Potential”
On Tuesday (September 3), the “I Need A Thug” hitmaker responded to the Bad Boy Records founder via her Instagram Stories. According to Yung Miami, Diddy can help her follow in his footsteps to become a billionaire.
“Had to repost this again causeeeeee yeah puff,” she wrote alongside a post highlighting his comments. “He knows my potential and he’s gonna push me there!”
The duo opened up about spending quality time together on the first episode of Diddy’s Love Radio last month.
“I have an island,” Diddy explained after Yung Miami recalled a recent trip to Love Island. “This is just for inspirational motivation. You don’t know a lot of Black men that come from the hood that got an island.”
Sexyy Red has revealed she’s a big Donald Trump fan and wants the controversial former president back in office.
The St. Louis rapper opened up about her love for Trump, who is campaigning to return to the White House, despite facing felony charges in four criminal cases in Washington, New York, Florida and Georgia.
On Tuesday (October 3), the “SkeeYee” hitmaker opened up about Trump after being asked about other sexy reds during an episode of the This Past Weekend podcast. According to Sexyy Red, Donald Trump has a lot of backing from the hood.
“I like Trump,” Sexyy Red began. “Yeah, they support him in the hood. At first I don’t think people was f###### with him. They thought he was racist, saying little s### against women.”
However, Sexyy Red claims that Trump turned the tables once he began dishing out stimulus checks and pardoning Black prisoners.
“But once he started getting Black people out of jail and giving people that free money,” she added. “Awe, baby, we love Trump. We need him back in office. We need him back, because, baby, them checks. Ooh yes, them stimulus checks. Trump, we miss you.”
She continued, “I love Trump, he funny to me. I used to watch him talking to people. He used to be calling people fat,’ she said before adding, “He just bold. He funny. We need people like him.” Check out the episode below.
Donald Trump granted clemency to Kodak Black and Lil Wayne, among others, in one of the ex-president’s final acts before leaving office in 2020.
“I Want To Thank The President @RealDonaldTrump For His Commitment To Justice Reform And Shortening My Sentence,” Black wrote on X (formerly Twitter) following his release. “I Also Want To Thank Everyone For Their Support And Love. It Means More Than You Will Ever Know. I Want To Continue Giving Back, Learning And Growing.”
Hip-hop began in small circles of immigrants from Africa and Latin America who sought self-expression and social equality. But eventually, the subculture reached a global level. It still influences politics, culture, fashion, education, technology, and much more. It even influences gambling, although you don’t think much about it. Therefore, let’s look at how hip-hop stars mention betting and whether it is dangerous or good.
The Influence of Hip-Hop Culture
It all started in the working-class neighborhoods of New York City, where people mixed different sounds for their small parties. The best performers were called MCs and even recorded cassettes. But the real genre’s growth started in 1970. Then, successful singer Sylvia Robinson opened her recording studio, Sugar Hill Records, and released two hip-hop singles that topped the US charts.
Hip-hop is mostly reflected in music, choreography and visual art. You will recognise it by its loose clothing, dreadlocks, bright colors and massive jewelry. But it’s not just about the look, it’s also about sense. Performers raise social issues and draw attention to them by evoking emotions. Most often, they talk about racism, misogyny and social inequality issues.
The portrayal of gambling in the world of entertainment is relatively less common but undeniably significant. Artists often use their platform to sing about gambling as a means to enjoy their wealth and bask in their success, creating an air of celebration and even romanticization around it. However, there are instances where these same artists take a different stance, using their art to caution against the perils of excessive gambling and advocate for responsible gaming.
In this context, tools like GamStop come into play as valuable resources for individuals looking to exercise control over their gambling habits. GamStop is a self-exclusion program that allows users to voluntarily exclude themselves from UK-based gambling platforms, but there are NonGamStopBets sites for GamStop players in the United Kingdom which are often chosen as an alternative by those who have self-excluded. Let’s delve deeper into these contrasting portrayals of gambling in the world of entertainment and the role of responsible gaming tools like GamStop.
Gambling References in Hip-Hop
Let’s start with GOATs. The song “I’m So Paid” by Akon Feat. Lil Wayne & Young Jeezy talks about the rappers’ success and has an interesting line ‘Against all odds and I will not stop’. This is an allegory about the odds in gambling. In short, no matter how much money you bet on the singer’s defeat, he will go on to achieve his goal.
Kendrick Lamar compares betting to love in his Vegas, which is evident in the lyrics:
‘You’re the one I’d risk my life
And waste it on a bet’
‘If gambling’s a sin
Then I’m rollin’ dice with Lucifer
To make sure I ain’t losin’ you’
‘I’m a cash in on this last poker chip
You can bet’
‘You’re the one who keeps the
Slot machines spinnin’ around’
All to intensify the emotions, and Lamar succeeds.
Big K.R.I.T. went the other way and compared gambling to life. They have the same risks and dangers, so sometimes you have to be careful. This is how the singers highlight the negative aspects of gambling, which is quite rare. We see it in the lyrics ‘They say life is a gamble, So be careful when you shake ’em up’ and ‘Russian roulette table, I gotta bet safer, You gotta know when to fold your cards’.
Hip-Hop Stars Experience
Another famous hip-hop artist Jay Z also has a soft spot for cards and roulettes, which he often mentions in his songs. From time to time, the news feed is filled with his bet numbers, and the most scandalous one is the loss of $500 thousand for a hand in Vegas. He didn’t comment on this case, but it’s safe to say that money is not a problem for him.
Rapper Drake had a similar situation related to his mad betting habits with an even higher amount. He lost $10 million in a casino while broadcasting live on Instagram. Then the public began to worry whether he had a gambling problem, as the amount was 5% of his net worth. Besides them, 50 Cent, Young Thug, Youthful Criminal, Nelly, and others were seen at the tables and slots. That is the idols of millions.
Lessons We Can Learn
No matter how much you enjoy a song or video with dollars, reels and alcohol everywhere, the reality is harsher. Gambling is not only about entertainment but also about risks. No one guarantees you a win, no matter how much you bet, and these hip-hoppers are a perfect example. They can afford these bets, but for other people, it can be unattainable amounts and a road to debt. Keep this in mind, along with the Big K.R.I.T. guidelines, to still enjoy your betting. Here are some tips to do so:
Set limits. Before the round, set a specific loss amount or time and stop when you reach it. This way you won’t spend too much.
Watch indicators. Choose games with a high RTP, i.e. a player’s advantage. Most often, this applies to slots. As for card games, don’t play high limits until you’ve improved your skills. Consider your capabilities.
Choose safe platforms. Good casinos are licensed, have a lot of real reviews, and follow responsible gambling rules. You don’t want to invest in a fraudulent website. Finally, you can read some of the top books about responsible gambling.
Conclusion
Hip-hop culture teaches us a lot, but sometimes it glorifies taboo topics. We can still benefit from it and not repeat the mistakes of others. Sing along with your favorite rappers and place bets, but don’t chase that Jay-Z loss. Play it safe!
If you often listen to rap and hip-hop music, you probably know that artists often address the gambling topic in their songs. They glorify it, inspired by the atmosphere and aesthetics of expensive casinos and big jackpots. However, many American celebrities who like to gamble not only sing about poker or casinos but also use their gambling experiences to write captivating lyrics.
USA online casinos are open to everyone, regardless of whether you are a small company employee or a hip-hop star with a million-strong audience and global labels. So, let’s look at the passionate gambling fans who shape music world trends.
Why Celebrities Choose Gambling for Their Leisure Time
Before we jump right into the list of hip-hop stars who often like to place multiple bets, let’s look at the following question: “What makes celebrities choose gambling for leisure?” The answer is simple and obvious:
Easy relaxation. This is a great format to relax and just watch the random outcome.
A sense of risk and a desire to win. Celebrities also want not only to relax with a pleasant hobby but also to “tickle their nerves”: to feel the proper risk and fight for valuable prizes.
Big winnings. Celebrities don’t start betting to win money and enrich their wealth. However, this factor also impacts as everyone wants to experience that euphoric moment after hitting a big jackpot.
Besides, gambling vacations also bring additional inspiration. The atmosphere makes performers write new songs. That’s why we often hear casino references in our favourite ones. Anyway, below you will find the list of American hip-hop celebrities who like gambling. The list is not full, but it features some names that catch our ears on a nearly daily basis.
Sean “P Diddy” Combs
Sean Combs, known by stage names as Puff Daddy, Puffy, P. Diddy, or Diddy, is among the most iconic American rappers and producers. He already got three Grammy Awards and two MTV Video Music Awards.
People also know the rapper for his gambling passion. The singer often chooses blackjack because he feels skilled in this card discipline. P Diddy’s fans even assumed that the singer liked to hold several gambling sessions in his dressing room before the concert. Sean doesn’t hide his hobby, often acting as a game ambassador and attending leading blackjack tournaments.
Rapper Nelly
The American rapper Nelly is also a fan of quality gambling, but he chooses classic poker among all the available disciplines and slot machines. The singer, who is best known for his hits “Hot in Herre,” “Ride Wit Me,” “Just a Dream,” and “Dilemma”, regularly visits land-based poker clubs and participates in relevant tournaments. Nelly is a poker player and used to participate in such poker tournaments as the World Series of Poker and the European Poker Tour. He thinks it’s an excellent way to have fun and enjoy.
50 Cent
Of course, the article about gambling hip-hop celebrities would not be complete without 50 Cent. He is a hard-core gambler known to have made bets that could probably be compared to the budget of a small town. This is especially true for sports events. For example, 50 Cent placed an astonishing bet of $1.6 million on Floyd Mayweather, when the latter was fighting with Manny Pacquiao. Another notorious bet (we are not sure whether it was a joke or not) implied that Floyd must have read a chapter from Harry Potter without stuttering.
Young Thug
The American rapper Jeffery Lamar Williams, also known as Young Thug, remarkably influenced modern trends formation. But he also considers himself a devoted gambling fan. You could even hear stories about how the rapper’s team constantly looks after him to prevent spending too much. One of the star’s favourite games is craps, which he often plays with friends. Nevertheless, the “most influential rapper of the 21st century” chooses other gambling disciplines and is unafraid to play big. For example, in 2021, Young Thug visited a Las Vegas casino and left $800,000 there. So, as you can see, even stars can lose big.
Drake
One of the most famous contemporary rappers comes from Canada. Drake became famous immediately after his first album, Thank Me Later. However, music is not the only thing he fences. Fans often see him in land-based casinos, especially in the “city of big lights and big wins” Las Vegas.
What Drake is so skillfully hunting for is the thrill and real emotions that gambling can offer, whether it’s blackjack, themed slot machines, roulette, or classic poker. Last year, Drake won millions after placing a lucky bet on two UFC matches. As a gambling venue, gambling allows the singer to relax, unwind, and find inspiration for further creativity.
In a Nutshell
As you can see, there is a considerable number of hip-hop stars who are not strangers to the thrill of gambling, and apparently, this list can get much longer. We all have heard the songs by 50 Cent, Nelly, or other artists mentioned above, and if someone wondered about the inspiration sources for the lyrics that featured gambling, they now know the answer.
A jury has not been seated for Young Thug’s RICO trial in Georgia, but two more jurors were qualified for service on Tuesday (October 3). More than 30 jurors have been qualified so far as they await the next steps in the selection process, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Jozsef Papp.
Young Thug, whose real name is Jeffery Williams, is one of the seven defendants left in the YSL RICO trial. The rapper has remained in jail since his arrest in May 2022.
Earlier this month, prosecutors dropped charges against YSL co-defendant Cordarius Dorsey after Dorsey was convicted of murder — for the second time — in a separate case. Young Thug’s attorney Brian Steel previously asked Judge Ural Glanville to remove Dorsey from the YSL trial.
Young Thug was one of 28 people named in last year’s RICO indictment of YSL members. Gunna was the most notable name to accept a plea deal. Several defendants had their cases severed over the past year.
Jury selection for the YSL RICO trial began in January. Young Thug had 13 co-defendants when the slow-moving process started earlier this year.
Young Thug’s trial is expected to last six to nine months. He maintains his innocence.
Since the legalization of cannabis in Washington DC, for recreational and medical purposes, weed enthusiasts have constantly searched for the best marijuana dispensaries across the capital. The thriving cannabis scene in the capital comprises numerous weed shops offering premium quality marijuana in a wide array of varieties and tastes. This article will serve as an excellent guide for both new and experienced users to the finest spots in Washington DC, for an unparalleled experience.
The legalization of weed in over 23 states in the US has borne many benefits, including increased regulation and provision of safer access to cannabis for both medical and recreational users. Along with reducing the burden on the criminal justice system, it has opened up new avenues for tax revenue generation.
Here is a list of Washington DC’s handpicked marijuana dispensaries that are renowned for their top-notch products, friendly staff, and exceptional experiences, making them the shining star of the capital’s cannabis landscape.
Granny Za’s Weed Marijuana Dispensary: Your Best Cannabis Stop
Granny Za’s Weed Marijuana Dispensary, situated on H Street NW, is the go-to destination for an extensive list of both local and tourist consumers. With active storefront locations in both New York and Washington D.C., Granny Za’s endeavors to provide better cannabis than ever before. Their wide selection includes buds, pre-rolls, oils, tinctures, edibles, and even feminine hygiene products. Knowledgeable staff members are always on hand to ensure your utmost satisfaction.
2. Doobie District Weed Marijuana Dispensary: Elevate Your Cannabis Dreams
● Location: Basement, 1526 U st NW, Washington, DC 20009
Doobie District Weed Dispensary serves as one of the top dispensaries in the city, offering a diverse selection of high-quality strains with a warm welcoming, dedicated team. Owned and run by a minority-based veteran, this dispensary stands out for its commitment to excellence. Complying with Initiatives 71 and 81, they offer a wide range of products, including sports trading cards and gifts, all in legal amounts.
FireHouse Marijuana Weed Dispensary: Your One-Stop Shop
With a commitment to quality and responsible sales, FireHouse DC is one of the most renowned places in Washington, DC aimed at serving all recreational and medicinal cannabis needs of users. The offer classic marijuana strains, pop culture brands and unique edibles like magic mushrooms and psilocybin-infused products. They have truly emerged as the leaders in DC’s cannabis industry.
Granny Za’s Weed Marijuana Dispensary: Unveiling Another Gem
Location: Lower Level, 1664 Columbia Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009
Granny Za’s Weed Marijuana Dispensary on Lower Level, Columbia Road, is another gem in the top marijuana dispensaries and weed shops in Washington, DC. This brand has been made part of this listicle for the second time due to the wide-ranging cannabis products available at their outlet and a team of seasoned professionals ready to guide customers through their inventory. Customers visiting this shop are bound to find the best products suited to their tastes and preferences.
Green Palace DC Weed Marijuana Dispensary: Affordable Quality
Location: 3634 Georgia Ave NW 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20010
Nestled on Georgia Avenue, Green Palace, DC is known for providing a large variety of quality strains and products at affordable prices. Their affordability and excellent value for money sets them apart from other dispensaries in Washington, DC. Customers looking to elevate their cannabis experience without breaking the bank need to look no further than Green Palace DC.
Doobie Deuce Marijuana Weed Dispensary: Efficiency and Variety
Location: 1636 R St NW 2nd Floor, Washington, DC 20009
Doobie Deuce, also known as Doobie District Weed Marijuana Dispensary, is a favorite among medicinal marijuana users and weed enthusiasts due to its variety of strains and products, integrated with the most efficient delivery services in Washington, DC. Situated on R Street NW, this upscale weed dispensary has been known to provide top-shelf strains, concentrated and edibles.
At Kaliiva, quality is paramount. They subject all their products to independent testing and source from reputable suppliers dedicated to producing top-tier cannabis products. You can trust Kaliiva for the most popular and in-demand marijuana products tailored for client’s relaxation, creativity, or medicinal use in Washington D.C.
Greater Goods Georgetown Marijuana Weed Dispensary: The Dominant Force
Location: 1432 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007
Greater Goods Georgetown Marijuana Weed Dispensary is known for its sustainable and organic practices, with the intent to support local growers across Washington, DC. Many customers have admitted Greater Goods to provide the finest quality in the capital, offering a range of premium products with a speedy and professional service.
Green Stoop Weed Delivery is the speediest and most reliable cannabis delivery service in Washington DC, Northern Virginia & Maryland The dispensary has been actively reducing its carbon footprint by researching eco-friendly innovative packaging and sustainable energy for their delivery vehicles. With its exceptional product selection, under-one-hour weed delivery, convenient timings and outstanding customer service, Green Stoop is the premier choice for cannabis enthusiasts.
Granny Za’s Weed Marijuana Dispensary: A Consistent Favorite
Granny Za’s Weed Marijuana Dispensary makes its third appearance on this list, showcasing its consistent commitment to providing the best cannabis products in Washington D.C. This newest outlet on H St NE Street, like its other outlets, has garnered an extensive clientele list with its premium quality strains and products for medicinal and recreational uses.
These Legal 10 top weed dispensaries in Washington, DC, stand out for their dedication to providing top-notch products, with great emphasis on improving customer experience and positively impacting the community. With the help of this article, experienced enthusiasts and beginners alike can get their hands on premium strains and branded items from the comfort of their homes, interacting with a broader community that has embraced the green revolution.
Krayzie Bone is alive and well—or at the very least, he’s getting better. After more than a week of silence since the Bone Thugs-n-Harmony rapper was hospitalized in critical condition, the 50-year-old Hip-Hop legend shared a post on Instagram assuring his fans he’s still with us. Although Krayzie Bone is still hooked up to tubes and full of IVs, the mere fact he’s even using social media is a relief. After all, it was touch and go there for awhile, and death rumors quickly started to spread online.
“Just fought for life literally for 9 days straight,” he wrote in the caption. “And I only won the battle this time because I know Jehovah God was with every step of the way fighting for me. Never take life for granted enjoy it while have you have it! Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers trust me I needed every last on of them.”
Krayzie Bone checked himself into a Los Angeles area hospital on Thursday (September 21) after he started coughing up large amounts of blood. Krayzie suffers from sarcoidosis, an inflammatory disease in which the immune system overreacts, causing groups of cells to form clusters of inflamed tissue called “granulomas” in one or more organs of the body.
After Krayzie Bone underwent a cat scan, doctors discovered an artery was leaking inside one of his lungs. He underwent immediate surgery, but the bleeding didn’t stop. He was then put into a medically-induced coma as doctors worked to fix the leak.
Evidently, the surgeries were a success and he’s awake. Sources say he can’t quite talk yet due to the tube that was inserted down his throat, but the photo is a promising sign he’s on his way to recovery. AllHipHop sends our support to Krayzie Bone, his fellow Bone Thug-n-Harmony members and all of his loved ones.
JAY-Z didn’t tell the whole story when he alluded to the idea that he’d previously declined his cousin’s request for a $4,800 loan. If you haven’t seen it by now, a clip has resurfaced from JAY-Z’s interview with Kevin Hart for his Peacock series Heart To Hart.
In the aforementioned clip, Hov appears to shrug off the idea of lending a family member a small sum of money, even though it’s the equivalent of pennies on the dollar to him.
Hov did, in fact, grant his cousin a loan for his business endeavor, but it wasn’t based on the premise of turning a few thousand dollars into a few million–at least not on that premise alone. During his recent speech at the Brooklyn Public Library Gala, JAY-Z actually gave a shout-out to his cousin, Jamar White, who he said he came up “from noodles” with. Believe it or not, Hov invested in White’s Buffalo Boss restaurant idea, which highlights “Brooklyn Hip-Hop swagger” while bringing the party back to the “Party Wing” over 10 years ago. Fast-forward to now, White has an international culinary business operation on his hands and his cousin’s philanthropy is still being misunderstood.
Check out the details of the incredible story below.
Soulja Boy’s ex-girlfriend Kayla Myers received permission to seize his property to satisfy a six-figure judgment won in a civil trial. According to Radar Online, a judge granted a motion allowing officers to enter the rapper’s Los Angeles area home to seize his vehicles and some cash on behalf of Myers.
The judge did not sign off on all cash being taken from Soulja Boy’s house. Officers were told to only seize cash in excess of $1,000.
Myers sought the judge’s help to collect hundreds of thousands of dollars from Soulja Boy, whom she sued for a 2019 assault. Last April, a jury awarded her roughly $236,000 in damages and another $236,000 in punitive damages in the civil case.
Soulja Boy, whose real name is DeAndre Way, claimed he could not cover the punitive damages in his current financial situation. A judge denied his motion to dismiss the punitive damages, insisting the rapper had the ability to pay off the debt.
“Defendant must be earning money from somewhere sufficient to pay for the rent and whatever other monthly expenses he has,” the judge said. “In other words, defendant is paying $300,000/year in rent alone. It stands to reason that he must have some other living expenses. And that money must come from somewhere.”
The judge advised Soulja Boy to find more modest accommodations to ease his alleged financial strain.
It appears as though Lil Meech may have a new leading lady by his side as he continues personifying his father’s life story as the star of 50 Cent’s drama series BMF.
In case you missed it, Meech and Summer Walker reportedly broke up in July following a whirlwind romance last year that saw the pair walking red carpets together donning all black and captioning photos “together 4 life.”
Their breakup actually played out fairly nasty online. Walker even compared the relationship to that of Lil Baby and his baby mama, Jayda Cheaves, amid several scandals involving Meech. One of which, appeared to catch Meech allegedly red-handed entering the apartment of a woman who wasn’t Walker via ring camera footage obtained from a tenant in the complex.
While the woman he allegedly got caught with has yet to be proven to be his blood relative, or even identified at all, the streets are now saying Lil Meech’s new girl is deceased rapper XXXTENTACION’s old flame. Over the weekend, photos of the pair surfaced and went viral on social media. They show the couple cozied up, in addition to a flick of Miss Geneva Ayala rocking Meech’s infamous BMF chain. Maybe Meech is just testing the waters—then again, this could be the start of something serious by the looks of it.
King Cruff describes himself as “a trailblazing rising star who tests the boundaries of music,” which shines through in his newest single “SHEDOENEED” featuring Stonebwoy and Jag.Huligin. The standout collaboration serves as an anthem for all the independent ladies in the world, paying homage to the beauty and strength they embody.
“SHEDOENEED” is paired with a cinematic visual to match, shot in both Jamaica and Toronto — two places that birthed King Cruff.
King Cruff states, “Raised between the cold Canadian tundra and the tropical Jamaican landscape, contrast and duality is something that is ingrained in my character. The idea that two things that challenge each other can actually co-exist to bring new meaning. Cruff is a character that is warm and welcoming, but still maintains a strong mystique by keeping to himself.”
King Cruff, real name Solomon Marley-Spence, has been enthralled with music since birth, with songwriting and performance ingrained in his blood. He prides himself in his storytelling, while creating records that uplift and inspire audiences all around the world. Straddling the genres of Hip-Hop, reggae, in dancehall and funk, King Cruff’s versatility does not go unnoticed, always relating it back to his roots across the diaspora.
AllHipHop spoke with King Cruff to discuss his background, the new single, and more.
AllHipHop: How would you describe your sound?
King Cruff: My sound is an amalgamation of different genres that I loved growing up. There’s a strong foundation in storytelling Hip-Hop with hues of reggae and dancehall. I bring in some funk and disco when I can and a sprinkle of Afrobeats to keep the vibes positive. That’s the King Cruff recipe.
AllHipHop: You’re from London, now based in Toronto. How does that play into your life and career?
King Cruff: London, Ontario is this small hub city with a powerful budding music scene two hours away from Toronto. I spend a lot more time in Toronto now and it’s been a pleasure learning about the rich music history Toronto has. Just the other day I went to the Canadian film premiere for the documentary 299 Queen Street West about MuchMusic – Canada’s version of MTV at the time. There’s so much culture and music history to take in in Toronto but London has a buzzing music scene of its own and it’s where my artistry first took shape.
AllHipHop: Biggest influences?
King Cruff: On the rap side of things, I always gravitate towards artists that defy expectations and are creating on another level like Kendrick Lamar, Andre 3000, and Childish Gambino. Artists who grew up in environments that have such a strong cultural image and somehow found a way to both celebrate and amplify that but in their own avant-garde type of way.
On the reggae side, Stephen Marley and Chronixx are two very important influences of mine as well. The first album I remembered listening to front to back was Mind Control and it is still a top favourite to this day. Chronixx is an artist who, from the start of his career, challenged the trends and the norms of Jamaican culture to pave his own way.
AllHipHop: At what point did you realize this music thing was for real?
King Cruff: The moment I knew was when I started considering leaving university. I had heard my whole life about preparing a plan B in case music didn’t work out. Everyone tells you that when you’re trying to build something. But when you put so much time and energy and money into your plan B, what’s happening to your plan A? Then I started asking myself if I put all those resources into my plan A, what would I need a plan B for? I left university and went to audio recording school instead. I told myself I would still be surrounded by music but from there, my determination was set.
AllHipHop: What was the inspiration behind your name?
King Cruff: The name King Cruff is a contradiction – all my Jamaicans know this. A ‘cruff’ is a term used to describe someone with no fashion, no vision, no ambition. People used to call me this growing up because they would judge me based on the optics, not on the character. I took this name and put it beside the word King because I felt like seeing these two conflicting words together would give people a moment to wonder what the meaning was. What it means is the idea of potential – someone’s potential to either be the best at what they do, or the worst at what they do.
AllHipHop: “Shedoeneed” is out now, talk about how this record came together with Stonebwoy.
King Cruff: “SHEDOENEED” is a big banger! The record originally started with just me and Jag.Huligin on the song, this smooth track for the ladies. Stonebwoy and I have mutual connections between both of our camps and he had been following my music for a while. He somehow heard a demo version of the song and he loved the track from the jump. He has a huge admiration for dancehall music and he could appreciate the messaging and theme behind the song. It was suggested we get him on the track and not too long after, he sent through the verse that brought the whole song together. Big up Bhim Nation every time.
AllHipHop: What does the song title mean?
King Cruff: “SHEDOENEED” is talking about the women who don’t need anyone to make them feel as though they’re whole. It’s the main message of the song and the chant is the most integral part. I like the mindset of putting these positive messages in the parts of the song that people will sing over and over again. So that without them knowing, they’re repeating these messages that they need in their life. Music is psychological at the end of the day.
AllHipHop: Best memory from shooting in Jamaica & Toronto?
King Cruff: The scene in Jamaica at the end of the video where we’re all at the party. We pulled up at Janga’s at the end of the night and were immediately surrounded by friends and family. A lot of the cameos at the end are people I’ve known for years. My cousins Matthew and Donisha feature heavily in the video. That last clip where the motorcycles are circling around me – Matthew pulled me into the middle of that and we just started talking about life in the center of that mayhem. Money shot. We weren’t just acting for the cameras, that final scene was a celebration.
AllHipHop: What is it you want fans to get from your story?
King Cruff: I want the fans to feel heard and understood. I want them to feel empowered. I want them to wake up with positivity in their hearts. Or at least, any less semblance of loneliness. I want them to feel like the bad things that happen to them don’t only happen to them. That there’s a community that they can laugh and cry with.
AllHipHop: 3 things you need in the studio?
King Cruff: A story, some tea, and some tranquility. When I’m in the studio, it’s easy for me to get in my head about the creation process so anything to make it more calming always works.
AllHipHop: With Bob Marley being your grandfather, do you feel destined to do music?
King Cruff: The legacy of such an amazing musician had more of an impact on me as a person than my career path, I’d say. I thought Bob Marley was the coolest superhero ever growing up. But for a long time, music wasn’t really the first choice for me. I was very interested in becoming an author. I still am. But eventually it became such an integral part of my life that I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
AllHipHop: Goals yourself as an artist at this point of your career?
King Cruff: As my audience grows, I just want to have more opportunities to connect and grow with them. More shows, more music. I want my supporters to feel as though they’re watching the rocket ship take off. And they all had something to do with it. Because they did. There would be no King Cruff without the fans.
A New York judge issued a limited gag order in Donald Trump’s civil fraud trial on Tuesday (October 3). Judge Arthur Engoron made the decision after Trump attacked the judge’s law clerk on social media.
“Personal attacks of any member of my court staff are unacceptable, inappropriate and I will not tolerate them,” the judge said.
Trump claimed a clerk named Allison Greenfield was “running this case against me” on his Truth Social platform. The former president posted a photo of Greenfield with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and referred to her as “Schumer’s girlfriend” on Tuesday.
Judge Arthur Engoron ordered the post to be deleted. He called it “disparaging, untrue and personally-identifying.”
“Consider this statement an order forbidding all parties from posting, emailing or speaking publicly about any members of my staff,” the judge announced in court. “Failure to abide by this … will result in serious sanctions.”
Trump is on trial for alleged real estate fraud. New York Attorney General Letitia James accused him and his company of inflating their assets to obtain favorable loans and insurance policies.
The former president’s trial began on Monday (October 2). The civil case only scratches the surface of Trump’s legal issues as he’s also facing 91 criminal charges across four jurisdictions.
Rap culture and gambling have always been connected, which is reflected in the lyrics and lifestyle. In many songs and video clips, you can see the joy of a beautiful life, expensive cars, luxury champagne, diamond rings, and all this against the backdrop of a casino. This shows that rappers can earn a lot and spend just as much, for example, during another weekend trip to Las Vegas.
Top Hip-Hop Songs Played at Casinos
Casinos often use the close interaction between rap culture and gambling. Songs are played not only at land-based venues but also at online casinos. For example, some non UK casinos featured on CasinoGap’s list, play tracks from famous rappers to form an atmosphere of better engagement among players, create a feeling of involvement in luxury life, and encourage them to play for real money.
It Was a Good Day by Ice Cube
The song was released in 1993 and became Ice Cube’s signature song. She also greatly influenced the performer’s career and brought him worldwide fame. The song’s main theme is gambling, namely the game of dice. The rapper sings about how he gets caught up in this entertainment that he plays with his friends.
He talks about how his ideal day is a victory with a winning streak. So, it contains the following lines: “What’s the Haps on the Craps?” Then he shakes the dice and half-sits the combination “seven, seven-eleven, seven-eleven, seven.” This is a pretty good result that brings him victory. In addition to peaking at number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100, the song is often played in casinos around the craps tables.
Pokerface by Ghostface Killah
As you might have guessed, this song is about the most popular casino card game. With this song, Wu-Tang Clan showed the world his attitude towards poker and the role the game played in his life.
Notably, the singer uses slang like “paid to see the river” winning “four hundred thousand pot, ” and so on. So, it is not surprising that casinos use this piece of art to stimulate poker players at tables.
Vegas by Kendrick Lamar
In this song, the rapper used an interesting comparison of Las Vegas with a woman. Kendrick knows very well what he is singing about and the fact that he has experience in poker, slots, and blackjack.
His desire to play is comparable to his passion for a woman. So, in one of the lines of the song, it is said that if gambling is a sin, then he rolls the dice with Lucifer just to ensure he does not lose the woman he desires.
Non-British Hip-Hop Stars with a Gambling Passion
Whether you prefer British or non-UK casinos, you probably know about popular rappers who have distinguished themselves with their passion for gambling. Many of their songs are real anthems of casinos or individual games, which are often used by gambling houses around the world.
Diddy
Diddy is the stage name of Sean Combs, a famous New York rapper, artist, and producer. Many rap fans know him from his recent work with Bad Boy Records and his successful solo albums. However, Sean is also known for his start to gambling. Of all the casino games, he likes poker the most. Mostly among his opponents are his friends from the rap community with whom he often spends time.
50 Cent
50 Cent cannot be called a newcomer to rap since he has a lot of solo albums and successful work with such groups as G-Unit. In addition to his love for music and cinema, Curtis does not hide his special attitude towards everything related to the casino. In addition, he is an ardent fan of sports betting.
Nelly
Hardly anyone doesn’t know the songs “Hot in Here” or “Dilemma”. Nelly also starred in such films as “The Longest Yard” and “Taxi.” Like previous performers, Nelly is a big fan of gambling. Moreover, he often organizes charity poker tournaments to raise money for various needs.
British Hip-Hop Artists who Like Gambling
Among British rappers, there are also many examples of performers who link their lives of creativity with gambling. Here are some striking examples.
Keno. In his song “Off License”, he clearly described his passions for the night way of life, money, and gambling.
Dizzee Rascal. This rapper did not hide his interest in the casino lifestyle and even took part in creating gambling commercials for Ladbrokes.
P Money. Another popular rap performer who loves gambling and often makes references in his songs. For example, expressions like “GG” (Good Game) or OP. (over-powered) are already actively used in the gaming industry.
Besides this, many other performers continue to give a hint of gambling in their works, like Big Narstie or Wiley.
The Role of Gambling in British Hip-Hop
Music can significantly impact players` gameplay, so casinos take advantage of it. Like the gambling industry in any other region, British casinos actively use the opportunities of hip-hop culture. Popular rappers with a large fan base are leaders of public opinion and can easily motivate both with words and a tempting picture of a video clip to place a bet. Also, the casino uses hip-hop songs as background music.
This helps create a connection among customers between their favorite lyrics and the need to place a bet. In addition, rappers can directly promote casinos and betting sites, attracting new clients. An example of this is the Dizzee Rascal mentioned above.
Conclusion
Gambling and hip-hop culture are closely connected and have common contact points regarding big sums, getting money, thrilling emotions, luxurious life, and so on. Both hip-hop artists and casinos often use these themes to increase their audience. Therefore, it is unsurprising that music and gambling united and created one of the most successful business schemes, bringing in millions of dollars.
Drake is among the most renowned artists: his rap songs are popular worldwide. Unsurprisingly, he is among the highest-paid performers in 2023. It’s said his earnings from music are around $70 million per year, which is fascinating. However, his rap songs are not the only source of income, as the celebrity is also known for his insane passion for gambling.
This hobby also adds significant sums to his net worth – but no one is insured for losses, and Drake is no exception. Let’s open the door to the mystery and find out how a famous rapper earned his fortune.
Drake’s Musical Journey
Not all know that Drake’s original name is Aubrey Drake Graham. He was born into an ordinary family, but his father was a drummer – so he got a hereditary passion for music. In 2001, he tried himself as an actor but felt it was not for him. He participated in the show till 2008, after which the future rap star decided to concentrate on music. Drake’s first famous single, “Best I Ever Had,” was released in 2009. Such a loud success led him to sign a contract with Lil Wayne’s label. During the following year, he worked on “Thank Me Later,” the album that made him popular worldwide.
Currently, Drake is among the richest rappers in the world: his show costs around $1 million. His net worth reached $270 million in 2023. Does he earn all the money from his concerts? No. Let’s see other activities that bring insane profits to the celebrity.
Drake’s Business Ventures
The performer is an ambassador of the Toronto Raptors: October’s Very Own (OVO) brand, owned by Drake, has been partnering with the NBA team since 2013. The collaboration brought fans many exclusive clothes, while the rapper got a significant income. The company’s revenue reaches $28 million annually.
Alcohol production is another industry Drake is involved in, as he is a part-owner of Virginia Black company. Getting one more source of income is the only goal of this collaboration – and it brings him around $38 million yearly. Making more money and remaining in Forbes is exactly what a player wants – he mentioned it in an interview in 2016. Well, it seems that nothing has changed during the following years, as Drake is still among the richest performers globally.
Moreover, he is a passionate fan of gambling; in 2022, he signed a $100 million contract with Stake.com, a well-known casino and betting platform. Drake doesn’t only present gambling operators and promotes them – he also plays roulette and other games, investing millions.
High Stakes Bets & Offers
Gambling is the most famous Drake’s passion: every rapper’s fan knows he loves roulette games. Rumours say he once bet $10,000 per one round – and fantastically multiplied the initial deposit. His losses are also significant: in 2022, he placed over $1 million on a football match, which was unsuccessful. However, negative outcomes don’t stop Drake from betting and gambling more – and he earned a massive part of his money on casino websites.
Depositing six-figure sums is nothing special for the rapper. For instance, he bet $250,000 on the Nuggets and eventually hit a $850,000 prize. If you are interested in casino bonuses and other deals available on WithCasinoBonus you clearly understand that such offers are rare. Another $136,000 wager on Israel Adesanya brought Drake an insane $897,000 winning. A valuable income to his overall net worth, doesn’t it? Unfortunately for the rapper, he also had multiple unsuccessful bets, including $393,000 on Odell Beckham Jr. and $335,000 on Jake Paul vs. Tommy Fury. It’s said the rapper got over $70 million in profits from gambling. However, it’s hard to evaluate all the net worth gained from online casinos and sportsbooks as Drake continues placing bets.
Impact on Net Worth
Of course, concerts and tours remain the primary Drake’s source of income, bringing him the most profits. However, other projects managed by the rapper are also worth attention. On the other hand, fans are usually especially excited by his gambling activity: everyone is curious about how successful he is. In line with other casino lovers, Drake has both successes and drawbacks. The only difference is that the performer invests insane sums. Many say he suffers from gambling addiction – and the inability to stop makes him lose millions of dollars in roulette and sports betting. On the other hand, statistics still show his winnings outweigh the losses: he won around $70 million, with spending reaching $30 million. If only every casino and betting fan could boast such figures!
Conclusion
Drake remains one of the richest rappers in the world, as his net worth has already exceeded $270 million. And the performer is not going to stop! His singing career brings the most income, as Drake’s concerts’ revenue can reach $5 million in the US. On the other hand, the rapper also has several businesses, a clothing brand and a whiskey company with $28 million and $38 million revenue, respectively.
Gambling is another passion and source of income. Drake has already invested around $30 million in online casinos and sportsbooks. He prefers playing the roulette game and places bets on the NBA, NFL, and MMA. And the rapper is quite successful! Even though many people judge him for this harmful hobby, the rapper continues to have fun and is rumored to have already won over $70. Well, it’s a significant part of his net worth.
President Joe Biden’s son has pleaded not guilty to federal gun charges. According to AXIOS, the first son entered his plea in a federal court in Wilmington, Delaware on Tuesday (October 3), denying he was guilty of three counts related to the illegal possession of a firearm, including falsifying a federal firearms form and having a gun while using drugs.
Hunter Biden, indicted in September, could face a maximum 25-year prison term if convicted, a prospect of interest to Republicans. His defense lawyers, including Abbe Lowell, raised concerns about the gun-related charges’ constitutionality and the possibility of dismissing the case based on an existing diversion agreement for the gun felony that’s still in play.
Lowell alleges that the push to convict Hunter Biden is fueled by Donald Trump and his loyal followers. The connection also relates to House Republicans launching an impeachment inquiry against the 46th president, alleging involvement in Hunter Biden’s foreign business ventures.
Democrats have supported the president, asserting there’s no evidence of wrongdoing beyond his love for his son. Texas Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett spoke out on Biden’s impeachment inquiry hearing on Thursday (September 28) and blasted the GOP for pursuing these charges against the president without any evidence.
According to Atlanta Black Star, the only thing the president is guilty of is “loving his child unconditionally.” She continued, “That is the only evidence that they have brought forward. Honestly, I hope and pray that my parents love me half as much as he loves his child. Until they find some evidence, we need to get back to the people’s work.”
In the ever-evolving world of hip-hop, where trends come and go, there are artists who remain committed to their roots and authentic storytelling. Avalanche The Architect, a formidable Toronto rapper originally from the Bronx, New York, is one such artist. With the recent release of two powerful music videos for his tracks, “Make Em Mosh Pit” and “Bring Boom Bap Back,” Avalanche is not only making a statement but also continuing his position as a force to be reckoned with in the rap game.
Canadian artist Avalanche The Architect has always been known for his unique and aggressive style of delivery. His lyrical prowess is unmatched, and his verses hit you like a sonic storm. What sets him apart is his ability to infuse his life’s story into his lyrics, creating a powerful and emotional connection with his listeners. His talent have not gone unnoticed, as Avalanche has had the privilege of collaborating with some of the biggest names in the games including Cappadonna, Choclair, Vinnie Paz, Jus Allah, Lil Wayne, 50 Cent, and Drake, among others. These collaborations have not only expanded his artistic horizons but have also cemented his reputation as a rapper of immense skill and versatility.
In the digital age, visual storytelling is paramount, and Canadian staple Avalanche is making waves on this front as well. His music videos, including the latest releases for “Make Em Mosh Pit” and “Bring Boom Bap Back,” not only complement his lyrical prowess but also offer a window into his artistic vision. These videos not only showcase his musical talent but also add depth and narrative to his work. Both are fantastic and can be experienced below.
Luther Campbell’s brother, a rocket scientist, is reportedly running for office in their home state of Florida. The two siblings seem to be polar opposites, but the Campbells at least share a vision of excellence (the pair’s eldest brother has a Ph.D. and speaks four languages).
Uncle Luke, a pioneering icon in the Sunshine State, made his mark in the rap group 2 Live Crew but few know his brother Stanley.
Stanley Campbell, a Navy pilot, an entrepreneur who owns a golf course and a literal rocket scientist, is contemplating a U.S. senate run an in discussion with leading Democrats to help formulate a campaign to challenge Debbie Mucarsel Powell for the party’s nomination.
The goal— is to win the primary and then go on to unseat Sen. Rick Scott, a Republican who served as Florida governor from 2011 to 2019.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cx7Qy0IuM5j/?hl=en
According toThe Messenger, the former NASA employee has even formed a Senate committee and Friends of Stanley Campbell committee with the Federal Elections Commission, taking all the steps most politicians make when running for office.
People like him, too. Kevin Cate, who works as a political strategist in the state, said his “personal story alone makes him one of the most compelling, formidable potential U.S. Senate candidates in the country.”
Part of his personal story are the eight patents he’s filed in the fields of business, intelligence, security and healthcare, with a particular focus on Big Data Management and Predictive Analytics through his company, Eagle Force, the TC Palm reported. His intelligence technology played a crucial role in Law Enforcement Case Management, ultimately leading to the arrest of Dennis Radar and resolution of the BTK Killer case.
Cate said, “If he’s able to complement that with good fundraising and organizing, all of the sudden Democrats might actually have a chance to take down Rick Scott.”
Will the world get to see Jonathan “DaBaby” Kirk and Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson acting together soon? The Charlotte, North Carolina native publicly requested to work with the Hip-Hop mogul.
On October 2, 50 Cent shared a clip on his Instagram account from his Starz series Power. The video featured the G-Unit Films and Television founder alongside Power star Sinqua Walls (Shawn Stark).
“POWER. This scene was cold-blooded, I put a different energy in this one but I think Cassius Dawkins was harder [than] Kanan. What [do] you think?” wrote 50 in the caption.
50 Cent played Kanan Stark on Power and Power Book II: Ghost. The Queens, New York representative also portrayed Cassius Dawkins on the ABC legal drama For Life.
DaBaby saw 50 Cent’s Instagram post and jumped into the comment section. The Baby on Baby 2 album creator made it clear he wants to work with the executive producer for For Life and the Power franchise.
“I gotta play a role on the screen [with] you before it’s all over,” commented DaBaby. In 2021, 50 Cent essentially offered to mentor the “Suge” rapper by stating, “I’m a teach him all the mistakes I made, so he can be better than me. THIS IS HIP HOP!”
While breaking into the entertainment industry as a Platinum-selling Hip-Hop artist, 50 Cent went on to appear in movies such as Get Rich or Die Tryin’, All Things Fall Apart and Expend4bles. DaBaby has experience behind the camera. He has directed several music videos for himself and other acts.
André 3000 and Big Boi can now make the claim of having the best-selling album in Hip-Hop history. OutKast’s Speakerboxxx/The Love Below rose up the American sales ranks to surpass a project by Eminem.
According to the Recording Industry Association of America, Speakerboxxx/The Love Below reached 13x-Platinum status. That puts OutKast’s 2003 double LP among the best-selling albums of any genre.
Speakerboxxx/The Love Below became a cultural phenomenon upon its release two decades ago. OutKast’s fifth studio album debuted at No. 1 by selling over 510,000 copies in its first week.
Both the Big Boi-focused “The Way You Move” single and the André 3000-focused “Hey Ya!” single peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Hey Ya!” remained at the pinnacle of the Hot 100 rankings for nine weeks.
Speakerboxxx/The Love Below also became just the second Hip-Hop project to win the Grammy Award for Album Of The Year. The Diamond-certified The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (10x-Platinum) won that same honor at the 1999 Grammy ceremony.
OutKast has another full-length release that is currently halfway to Diamond status. The RIAA certified 2000’s Stankonia as 5x-Platinum in November 2021. Both Stankonia and Speakerboxxx/The Love Below won Grammys for Best Rap Album.
Eminem’s The Eminem Show (12x-Platinum) previously held the RIAA certification record for a Hip-Hop album. In addition, the Detroit rapper received RIAA Diamond Awards for 2000’s The Marshall Mathers LP (11x-Platinum) and 2005’s Curtain Call: The Hits (10x-Platinum).
Other Diamond-certified rap albums include The Notorious B.I.G.’s Life After Death (11x-Platinum), 2Pac’s Greatest Hits (10x-Platinum), 2Pac’s All Eyez On Me (10x-Platinum), Beastie Boys’ Licensed to Ill (10x-Platinum), MC Hammer’s Please Hammer Don’t Hurt ‘Em (10x-Platinum), and Nelly’s Country Grammar (10x-Platinum).
OutKast, Eminem or any other Hip-Hop act ever breaking the all-time RIAA certification record appears to be an extremely difficult feat. At the moment, Their Greatest Hits (1971–1975) by Eagles (38x-Platinum) and Thriller by Michael Jackson (34x-Platinum) are battling for first place.
