Diddy’s Ex-Bodyguard Claims LAPD Was Behind 2Pac’s Murder

One of Diddy’s former bodyguards accused the Los Angeles Police Department of orchestrating a coverup of Tupac Shakur’s murder. Gene Deal explained why he thought the LAPD was responsible for the late rapper’s death, connecting it to the Biggie Smalls murder in an interview with the Art of Dialogue.

“If Suge says, ‘If you solve one murder, you solve them both,’ I gotta go with the eyewitness,” Gene Deal said. “And I don’t know why would Suge say that when Keefe D says that it was him, Orlando and Dre and them in the car together. But why would Suge say, ‘If you solve one murder, you solve ‘em both.’”

He continued, “I just believe somebody was made to say something. And I hope the Vegas police department do their due diligence and get down to the bottom of it and make the truth come out.”

Tupac was fatally shot in Las Vegas in 1996. Earlier this year, Las Vegas police searched Keefe D’s home in an unexpected development in the murder investigation.

Keefe D’s nephew Orlando Anderson, who died in 1998, was long considered the main suspect in Tupac’s murder. Keefe D previously implicated his nephew, claiming he was in the vehicle with Anderson when the shooting occurred.

Gene Deal suggested Tupac was killed over money. Diddy’s ex-bodyguard believed an audit of Death Row Records led to Tupac’s death and an elaborate coverup of the murder.

“Some people were spending money that they shouldn’t have been spending,” Gene Deal said. “Some people were stealing money that shouldn’t have been stealing, some people had money that they shouldn’t have had. And I think if I heard correctly, Tupac put an audit in two weeks or three weeks prior to his murder and started firing people and trying to figure out where his money was at and where it was going. So now if you been stealing money, and you inside and everything can be connected to you, what are you gon’ do? Get this hothead in a situation.”

Gene Deal insisted Keefe D lied about Anderson shooting Tupac. The murder case officially remains unsolved.

Shanti Das Launches New Podcast, “the mibo show,” In Hip-Hop’s 50th to Promote Mental and Physical Health in the Black Community

In honor of the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop, Shanti Das, a well-respected figure in the music industry, has unveiled a groundbreaking podcast titled “the mibo show.” This platform tackles the often-overlooked mental and physical health challenges faced by artists in the Hip-Hop industry while harnessing the influential power of the culture to enhance the well-being of people of color.

Das, who has made it her mission to prioritize mental and physical health, hopes that “the mibo show” will serve as a source of inspiration for the Hip-Hop community, encouraging them to make their mental and physical well-being a top priority.

Das has already featured Erick Sermon of EPMD, Darryl McDaniels of Run-D.M.C., Doug E. Fresh, and more. The latest podcast features rap legends MC Lyte and Yo-Yo in a discussion specifically dealing with women’t issues.

The name “the mibo show” itself reflects the show’s core message, derived from the fusion of “mi,” representing the mind, and “bo,” symbolizing the body. By recognizing the intrinsic connection between mental and physical wellness, the podcast aims to empower individuals to adopt a holistic approach to their health.

Throughout the episodes, “the mibo show” delves into a range of health issues that disproportionately affect Black individuals. Each installment features experts from Johnson & Johnson who provide valuable insights, statistics, and resources to listeners. Topics span across mental health, heart disease, diabetes, amputation, stroke prevention, hip replacement, and more.

Das’s personal commitment to promoting mental and physical health originated from her own struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. After the tragic loss of her best friend to suicide, Das realized the urgency of prioritizing her own well-being.

Reflecting on her journey, Das shared in a statement, “Following my friend’s death and my own suicidal ideation, I soon realized that I needed a change. This change began with much-needed conversations. In the entertainment industry, there was a constant ‘go, go, go’ mentality, leaving little time to pause, reflect, and simply talk, whether about health or anything else. Conversations were lacking back then, but they are imperative now.”

In 2016, Shanti Das founded “Silence the Shame,” a nonprofit organization dedicated to erasing the stigma surrounding mental health. During the challenging COVID-19 pandemic, she continued her advocacy work by hosting health and wellness check-ins on her Instagram Live, which eventually evolved into original YouTube content.

As “the mibo show” continues to gain momentum, it stands as a powerful testament to Shanti Das’s dedication to fostering vital conversations and positive change within the Hip-Hop community and beyond.

Episode 1 – Mental Health in the Black Community
Guests: Darryl McDaniels (DMC) from Run-D.M.C. and Vanessa Broadhurst, EVP, Global Corporate Affairs of Johnson & Johnson

Episode 2 – Health & Hip-Hop
Guests: Doug E. Fresh, Dr. Olajide Williams from Hip-Hop Public Health, and Vanessa Broadhurst, EVP, Global Corporate Affairs of Johnson & Johnson

Episode 3 – Hip Replacement & Hip-Hop
Guests: Big Tigger and Keith Palmer, Worldwide Vice President of Hip Reconstruction for DePuy Synthes, Johnson & Johnson

Episode 4 (August 11) – Heart Health and Hip-Hop
Guests: Erick Sermon and Dr. JaBaris Swain, Cardiovascular Medical Executive of Johnson & Johnson Recorded before a live audience in the heart of Times Square

Episode 5 – Ladies First: Hip-Hop & Women’s Health

MC Lyte and Yo-Yo join forces to dive into the world of women’s health and wellness. Join them as they bring their unique perspectives and experiences to the forefront, discussing everything from physical fitness to mental well-being within the context of the Hip-Hop community.

G Herbo Says He’s Spent $1 Million On Lawyer Fees Due To Bad Indie Deal He Signed As A Teen

G Herbo appears to be parting ways with his longtime independent label Machine Entertainment Group and is reportedly spending nearly seven figures to navigate his way out of the deal.

According to the “Everything” rapper himself, representatives at Machine— a company co-founded by Joseph “JB” Bowden and Mikkey Halstead—have allegedly been skimming funds from his career earnings for years. In a nearly five-minute-long video shared via Instagram, Herbo addressed the entire situation, remarking on the past decade of his career in the process.

“I’ve been signed to Machine since I was 16-years-old—I was a minor my parents had to sign me up,” Herbo started off. “We been family, independently made history. Boom, at 16, first and foremost I signed my publishing away perpetually for $15,000. But he claim he ain’t know the business—but I was young anyway.”

While Herb went on to clarify that he and his team had previously worked out a deal to get his publishing back and debts reconciled while amending his contract, he says things started to unravel when he allowed Machine to run his business operations—including paying his taxes and bills and maintaining other overhead expenses for the Chicago rapper. Herbo claims he first became aware of the situation after rumors began swirling within his inner circle that he owed a ridiculous sum of money to his label Machine.

“Twelve years later, I been hearing rumors that I owe him money,” Herbo said in part. “Long story short, I go get up with him, ‘Aye bro what’s up with these numbers?,’ We look at the numbers, they wasn’t right.”

From that point on, Herbo claims he and his team held a meeting during which he expressed his desire to both exit and audit his partnership deal with Machine. Apparently, a handwritten contract was also tendered by Herbo. But now, Herb claims he’s been blocked by Machine officials and found out from his legal counsel they are apparently attempting to press charges on him amid the financial dispute.

In 2021, Herbo and Machine inked a massive partnership deal with Republic Records—so it makes sense that it’s going to take a while to navigate through the paperwork outlining the deal. However, Herbo has claimed he has already spent nearly one million dollars through this point of the legal struggle with Machine—which is seemingly just getting started.

Even though he’s seemingly reached his breaking point concerning his dancing doppelganger lookalike, G Herbo might want to attempt to use his likeness to weasel his way out of this situation.

Hitmaka Gets Accused Of “Something Very Bad” By Tink

Tink. What a talented artist. I am pretty sure she is getting more attention now that JUST with her music. She recently went live saying she had to defend herself from Hitmaka. He says he hit her, BUT she threatened to “expose” him if he releases the video. Oh lord! Is that extortion? How did we get here?

Before we do that, let us give the producer his moment.

Hitmaka took to Instagram Live to address the allegations made against him by Tink. Although his response was somewhat ambiguous, it all appeared to center around their partnership. It seems to be a t########### that was laced with financial disputes and a physical altercation. Hitmaka stressed he had no intention of sharing any alleged footage of the incident, but I also think her threat kept him in check. “I don’t even know what that girl is talking about,” he said. Hitmaka disclosed that he had not spoken to the rapper in approximately ten months, which makes for a weird dynamic. Why is this happening NOW, why have their been no charged filed and why are we seeing this in our faces on a easy-going Sunday?

Hitmaka did hint at taking legal action, but he did not state explicitly that Tink was his target. He emphasized that he did not wish to “speak ill” of her and still had love for her. AND YET he insisted that she would face consequences for her recent moves. I do not know a lot about Hit or Tink, but apparently she had been warned about him. In the comments, there seem to be some concern with him. Again, I do not know enough about it to say.

These two are from the same city – SAD. I hope they fix it or just stay away from each other. I do not want to see Tink like that ever again.

Offset Vows To Keep Michael Jackson Tattoo Despite Cardi B’s Oral Sex Story

Hip-Hop couple Offset and Cardi B are not shy about sharing some of their intimate business with the world. A clip from a recent interview with Cardi made the rounds on the internet because of remarks she made about her husband’s body art.

“I really need y’all to see the Michael Jackson tattoo he got on his stomach,” said Cardi B during a sitdown with Hot 97. “I don’t even want to take it there. I will take it there, but it’s just like, y’all really have to see it.”

The Invasion of Privacy album creator continued, “Because every single time I [imitates performing oral sex], it just be looking at me. I swear to God… You gotta see that tattoo. The tattoo really be looking at me like, ‘Yeah.'”

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TMZ spoke with Offset in New York City. The celebrity news outlet asked the Migos member if he had any plans to remove his MJ tribute after his wife’s public comments about the tattoo.

“Never,” answered Offset. The Georgia-raised rapper went on to promote the September 15 release date for his upcoming “FAN” single. He previously dropped “Jealousy” with Cardi B in July of this year.

Offset has repeatedly expressed being a huge fan of Michael Jackson. His verified Instagram page is filled with photographs of the 31-year-old rapper wearing outfits inspired by the King of Pop.

After putting out Father of 4 in 2019, Offset is preparing to release his sophomore solo studio LP. He also co-created several projects as one-third of the Migos rap group alongside Quavo and the late Takeoff.

Father of 4 peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 chart after debuting with 89,000 first-week units. Migos’ Culture reached No. 1 in 2017. The trio’s Culture II album also hit No. 1 the next year.

U.S. Open Winner Coco Gauff Celebrates By Rapping Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice’s “Barbie World”

Tennis phenom Coco Gauff won her first Grand Slam tournament over the weekend. The Atlanta native celebrated defeating Aryna Sabalenka at the 2023 U.S. Open by channeling New York City music stars Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice.

Gauff outlasted Sabalenka in New York’s Arthur Ashe Stadium (2-6, 6-3, 6-2) to prevail in the U.S. Open. Following her victory, the 19-year-old athlete posted herself lip-syncing “Barbie World” by Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice.

“Barbie World” lives on the Barbie: The Album soundtrack. The official Instagram account of the Warner Bros. Pictures-backed movie reposted Coco Gauff’s TikTok video to its page.

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Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice joined forces again to create the “Barbie World” collaboration. The track borrows elements from the 1997 song “Barbie Girl” by Europop band Aqua.

Previously, Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice linked up for “Princess Diana” which dropped in April of this year. “Princess Diana” peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. “Barbie World” made it to No. 7 in July.

“Barbie World” earned a Song of Summer nomination at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards. Nicki Minaj is up for Artist of the Year as well. Ice Spice also received a Best New Artist nod. Additionally, Minaj will host the VMAs on September 12.

“Princess Diana” will also have a chance to win a 2023 BET Hip-Hop Award. Ice Spice’s record featuring Nicki Minaj scored a Best Collaboration nomination. Spice will also have the chance to win Best Breakthrough Hip Hop Artist.

Latto Claps Back At Troll Accusing Her Of Doing “Coke Nose Move”

Latto is not afraid to respond to her critics on social media. This week saw the Georgia native share some choice words for a troll on X.

“She [keeps] doing that same lame ass coke nose move. Pack that s### up. She just starting to be corny to me. I [used] to like her [for real, for real],” posted an X user in reaction to footage of Latto rapping her “Put It on da Floor” lyrics.

In response, Latto checked the person for assuming that her hand gesture had a drug-related meaning. She did not clarify exactly what the nose swipe meant. However, the RCA recording artist clapped back, “😂😂😂No way y’all think that means coke.”

Latto found herself entangled in a very public feud with Nicki Minaj in 2022. Many observers believe the 2023 single “Put It on da Floor” contains disses (“She thought I would kiss her ass, she must ain’t took her meds”) directed at Minaj.

Additionally, some fans believed that Latto also took a shot at Nicki Minaj on “It’s Givin.” At one point in the song off 2022’s 777 studio album, the 24-year-old rhymer raps, “It’s givin’ Coke, bottle body, wanna hit it like some dope.”

In the midst of the heated back-and-forth between Latto and Nicki Minaj last year, #ItsGivinCoke began trending on Twitter. Latto then reiterated the coke line on her “Smoking on My Ex Pack (Freestyle)” which came out in January 2023.

Meanwhile, Latto heads into the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards on September 12 with a Song of Summer nomination for her appearance on “Seven” by Jungkook. Nicki Minaj is set to host this year’s VMAs from the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.

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Cardi B Explains Choosing Which Female Rappers She Wants To Work With

Throughout her career, Cardi B has collaborated with several female rappers. Her latest musical union came in the form of “Bongos” featuring Megan Thee Stallion.

“Bongos” hit DSPs on September 8. The song’s official music video has already amassed more than 8 million views on YouTube. Cardi’s new visuals continue to trend on the platform.

With the release of “Bongos,” Cardi went on a press run to promote the single. She recently spoke with Audacy’s Big Tigger. The interview included the Bronx-bred rapper discussing working with other women in Hip-Hop.

“Why not?” answered Cardi B when Big Tigger asked why she chose to collaborate with so many fellow female MCs. She also added, “It’s not that I’m a ‘girl’s girl’ – I’m just a girl. I’m clearly going to gravitate more to girl’s music.”

The 30-year-old hitmaker continued, “So when I do a song with these girls it’s because I really like y’all’s song. If I like your music and I like your sound, let’s do something together. Why the f### not? If I like your sh*t, I want to work with you.”

“Bongos” is the second song by Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion. The two Grammy Award winners previously put out the internet-breaking, chart-topping “WAP” in 2020 which is now certified 8x-Platinum by the RIAA.

In addition, Cardi B has appeared on songs with female rap acts like City Girls, Nicki Minaj, GloRilla, Latto, and FendiDa Rappa. The former reality show star also stated, “All the girls right now, I feel like nobody sounds like each other right now. That’s the good thing about it.”

Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion will perform “Bongos” live for the first time at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards which take place on September 12. MTV also nominated Cardi in the Best Hip Hop category for her contribution to “Tomorrow 2” by GloRilla.

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Gunna Shows Support For Young Thug During NYC Concert

Earlier this year, Gunna (born Sergio Kitchens) announced two headlining appearances in New York City and Los Angeles. “The Gift” portion of the concert series took place at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on September 9.

Gunna’s return to the stage came after the A Gift & a Curse album creator pleaded guilty to a racketeering charge in the state of Georgia. His YSL label boss, Young Thug (born Jeffery Williams), still remains in jail awaiting trial for the same RICO case.

Many online commenters, including Boosie Badazz, accused Gunna of turning on Young Thug by supposedly cooperating with the prosecution. However, the 30-year-old rapper denied snitching on his musical comrade.

Gunna even showed love to Young Thug during his Barclays Center show. At one point, the words “Free Jeffery” appear on the screen during the performance. Footage of the shout-out spread across social media.

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Prior to both artists’ current legal issues, Gunna and Young Thug worked together on numerous records such as “Dollaz on My Head,“Hot,” “Ski,” and “Take It to Trial.” The A Gift & a Curse studio LP dropped in June, six months after Kitchens entered his guilty plea.

A Gift & a Curse debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200 chart by earning 85,000 first-week units. The album’s “FukUMean” single rose to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The Flo and Dunk Rock-produced track became Gunna’s first solo Top 10 hit.

“The Curse” portion of Gunna’s concert series is scheduled for YouTube Theater in Los Angeles, California on September 28. He partnered with PLUS1 to donate $1 per ticket to The Goodr Foundation. That non-profit organization provides healthy meals to youth, families and seniors experiencing food insecurity.

Symba Credits Trio of Battle Rappers For Success Of Viral Freestyles: “That’s The Art Of Pure Raps” 

Battle rap fan Symba said he would never have received viral success with his freestyles if it wasn’t for a trio of battle rappers whose displays of elite lyricism forced him to up his game.  

The rising West Coast rapper ran into one of his battle rap heroes over the weekend. He made sure to give him his flowers during the encounter. According to Symba, Queens, NY, native DNA is one of three artists who inspire his raps. 

“What DNA don’t know is, every time I go do a freestyle at the radio,” Symba began, “it’s three people I watch. Tsu Surf, Murda Mook and DNA.” 

The “Never End Up Broke” hitmaker lauded the elite wordsmiths as the pinnacle of rap.  

“The reason I watch them n##### is cause’ that’s the pure art of raps,” Symba declared. “That’s the pure art of saying s### that the culture want to hear.” 

Symba continued, telling DNA, “I owe it to him because my freestyles would never go viral without watching his.” 

Although DNA tried to return the love, praising the Bay Area representative for his recent Ja Morant freestyle, Symba credited the battle rapper with inspiring that one too.  

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“I get that s### from you, bro,” Symba told DNA. “When a n#### see you walk s### down for 16 bars, and talk to n##### a certain way, that’s where it come from. I just be simplifying it.”  

Nonetheless, following their meeting, DNA gave Symba his flowers on social media, praising him as one of Hip-Hop’s last “real” rappers.  

“THE FEELING WAS MUTUAL CUZ IM A BIG FAN OF WHAT HE DOES,“ DNA captioned the video. “KEEP KILLING S### U ONE OF THE LAST PEOPLE STILL PRACTICING REAL HIP HOP.” 

Check out the video of their encounter below. 

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Boosie Badazz Vows Never To Return To Waffle House Over Potato Snafu In Hilarious Video 

Boosie Badazz has a lot going on right now with multiple online feuds, all while quitting smoking week to comply with his court order, and so he wanted his Waffle House order done right.  

The Baton Rouge, Louisiana native was very particular about what he wanted to eat during a recent visit to the popular spot, bringing his own potato for the chef to cook.  

However, despite his guest’s celebrity status, the Waffle House chef refused his special request, leaving Boosie fuming. He recalled the encounter during a hilarious Instagram Live Sunday (September 10), revealing he will never return to Waffle House.  

“Last week I got into it with the cook at Waffle House,” Boosie began his story. “He tried me!” 

According to the “Wipe Me Down” hitmaker, he always leaves a tip of at least $100 wherever he eats so the chef was missing out big time.  

“I brought a potato from my house, I say ‘make me some breakfast potatoes,’” Boosie continued. “He say he couldn’t do it, I say ‘you cant do what?’” Boosie was outraged at the cook’s refusal to cook his potato and vowed never to return.

“It’s a bet I won’t be back,” he insisted before adding, “I said ‘Im done with you. You ungrateful.’” 

Boosie also revealed he gave the chef’s in the back his usual $400 tip before getting back to his gripe. “He coulda’ chopped that damn potato up,” he concluded.

It remains to be seen whether Boosie will return to Waffle House. Check out the video below.  

@theurbanspotlight

Boosie Badazz Brought His Own Potatoes To Waffle House 🤪😂 Boosie’s recent visit to Waffle House turned into a breakfast debacle that has the community buzzing. The Baton Rouge rapper, known for his candidness, took to social media to share a hilarious yet eyebrow-raising incident that unfolded at the popular diner. Read more here 👇👇👇 https://theurbanspotlight.com/boosie-badazz-brought-his-own-potatoes/ IG: See more posts here 👇👇👇 https://www.instagram.com/theurbanspotlight.com_official You can show your support, purchase our Urban Gear: 👇👇👇 https://theurbanspotlight.com/shop/clothes/ BoosieBadazz WaffleHouse rickross boosie icespice skeeyee 50cent djenvy revolt djvlad viralpost viral liluzivert torylanez freeyoungthug citygirls yungmiami 6ix9ine migos lilbaby lildurk quavo chrisbrown drake nbayoungboy nlechoppa tmz hiphopnews nojumper djakademiks

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T.I.’s Son King Harris Under Fire For Paying Homeless Man To Do “One Chip Challenge” 

T.I.’s son, King Harris, has come under fire after paying a homeless man to do the “One Chip Challenge,” despite the extremely spicy tortilla chip at the center of the social media trend being pulled from the shelves at the manufacturer’s request following the death of a Massachusetts teenager. 

In a recent video shared on social media, King Harris offers a homeless man $50 to eat a Paqui chip for $50. He tells the man he’ll hand over the cash if he doesn’t drink water for five minutes after eating it.  

However, the man misunderstood the rules and immediately reached for a bottle of water after eating the chip. Despite struggling with the heat, he continued with the challenge as Harris and his friends recorded him while laughing at his discomfort. 

“It make it harder with that water in ya hand,” King Harris said to the man. “You gone’ lose if you drink it.” 

The man eventually succumbed and drank the water as Harris and his friends claimed victory. Despite losing the challenge, the 19-year-old rapper stumped up a $20 consolation prize. 

King Harris Blasted Over “One Chip Challenge”

However, fans took to his recent Instagram posts to blast King Harris over his actions.  

“HUMILIATING THAT HOMELESS MAN THE WAY U DID WAS DISGUSTING,” read one comment. “ONE OF THESE DAYS U GONNA GET WHAT U DESERVE.” 

Another added, “Smh , homeless man already down n you putting him down more especially after someone just died off that chip.” 

One person said King Harris could be arrested for his “One Chip Challenge” antics.  

“Why u treat that homeless man like that ?!” they questioned. “Forcing him to eat that spicy one chip without drinking water for $50. It’s all fun and games till the cops arrest u for food poisoning someone with a deadly chip.” 

The family of Massachusetts teen Harris Wolobah blames his death on the “One Chip Challenge.” Police found Wolohab “unresponsive and not breathing,’ after being called to his home on September 1 AP Reports. The teen is said to have eaten the chip at school but later passed out at home.  

Chrisean Rock Reveals Baby’s Biblical Middle Name During Live Dedication To Christ Service  

Chrisean Rock and Blueface finally agree on at least one thing after the Reality TV starlet dedicated their son to Christ during a ceremony at her hometown church in Baltimore. 

The Dedication was presided over by the 23-year-old’s childhood Pastor, Michael Freeman, at the Spirit of Faith Christian Center on Sunday (September 10). 

During the ceremony, Chrisean Rock revealed she gave her namesake son the middle name “Jesus.” Watch a clip from the heartwarming ceremony below. 

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While the parents have had numerous disagreements since the birth of their son, including Blueface blasting his ex for naming their newborn Chrisean Malone, Jr., dedicating their little bundle of joy to Christ seems to be the one thing they agree on.  

“I rather the baby Ina church full of god fearing faithful people,” Blueface wrote on Sunday. “If anything I believe in the same thing.” 

However, this does not mean a truce is in the works for the former couple as Blueface intends to continue calling out Chrisean Rock when he believes she’s making a mistake. 

“Gotta have the same energy vice versa tho when they make a bad call,” the “Thotiana” hitmaker added. “You gotta boo they ass can’t cheer for bad decisions.”

Despite threatening to file for full custody of their child and then giving Chrisean Rock 30 days to prove her parenting skills to him before he takes legal action, Blueface said he trusts the mother of his newborn.  

“I trust chrisean with my son that’s it nobody else,” he wrote in another post on X (formerly Twitter, Sunday. “Shes actually very nurturing an caring good with kids no doubt just alil impatient an the baby NEEDS patience can’t just get up an go no mor.”

Queen Latifah’s Dazzling Rendition Of National Anthem On Sunday Night Football Has Social Media Stunned  

Queen Latifah wowed fans at the MetLife Stadium during the NFL season opener with her dazzling rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner. 

On Sunday night (September 10), the Hip-Hop legend flexed her singing chops ahead of the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the New York Giants, performing the National Anthem during the NFL’s Sunday Night Football broadcast. 

The talented songstress shocked some viewers as much as the Giant’s eventual 40-0 loss to Dallas. Despite her many singing accolades, many fans were stunned to find out the multihyphenate icon can belt out a tune. Others took to social media, pointing to her achievements as a songstress. 

“People are JUST finding out that Queen Latifah sings?” one person wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “Have they not seen ‘Chicago’ or ‘Hairspray’? Or saw that she released two jazz albums? Or even when she played Bessie Smith in that HBO movie?  

“Queen Latifah was nominated for an Oscar for ‘Chicago,’” another person added. “Which was.. wait for it… a musical.” 

Many others praised Queen Latifah for her many talents and called for her to get more recognition. 

“I know that we all love queen latifah,” one fan shared. “But she really doesn’t get enough credit for being one of the most multidimensional talents of our generation.  

Others were quick to remind users that the first rapper to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame remains a gifted lyricist.  

“Since Queen Latifah is trending, I think it’s appropriate to post this,” a fan shared. “Even in her 50s, her bars are still strong and better than your favorite.” 

Exclusive: Images From VP Kamala Harris’s Hip-Hop Celebration With Lil Wayne, MC Lyte, Common, Jeezy And More

All Photos By Julia Beverly

Vice President Kamala Harris welcomed over 400 esteemed guests to her stately residence on Saturday in a historic and vibrant celebration marking the 50th anniversary of the birth of Hip-Hop,. This remarkable event, the first of its kind, saw the Vice President acknowledging the profound influence of the genre on global culture and its indelible significance to the Black community and world.

Underneath the starlit Washington sky, luminaries from the world of Hip-Hop, including Common, Lil Wayne, Slick Rick & Doug E. Fresh, Jeezy, MC Lyte, Roxane Shante, and Fat Joe, graced the occasion with their presence. The afternoon party attested to the enduring impact and transformative power of Hip-Hop on music, art, and society at large.

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Vice President Harris, a vocal advocate for the arts throughout her career, took the opportunity to emphasize the Biden administration’s commitment to fostering artistic expression, with a particular focus on the profound influence of Hip-Hop in shaping the American cultural landscape. Our images, courtesy of Julia Beverly, showcased VP Harris and others enjoying the gala.

Prominent members of the Congressional Black Caucus, including its chairman Rep. Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), Rep. Cori Bush (D-Mo.), and Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), mingled and danced, affirming the enduring connection between Hip-Hop and political activism.

Born and bred in Oakland, California, Vice President Harris has long championed the cause of the arts. She even talked to rapper Too Short, who is also a native of Oakland. Her residence spans a lush 13-acre estate.

This commemoration, however controversial, serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Hip-Hop in our society.

Rihanna Pays Tribute To Soccer Legend Pelé With New Sneaker

Rihanna’s Fenty brand has launched a new collection with Puma. The 35-year-old singer is making a return to footwear with the debut of the latest Fenty x Puma collection.

The hitmaker, who has been on a hiatus from Fenty x Puma since 2017, unveiled her new soccer-inspired take on the classic Puma Avanti.

“It’s a bit of a family reunion,” Rihanna told Vogue of the project. “Coming back to Puma as a mom, in a new space, allowed for new perspectives and ideas.”

The “Umbrella” singer first started working with the sportswear brand in December 2014. Fenty x Puma is best known for its most iconic sneaker style, the Creeper.

The brand eventually expanded into apparel and hosted multiple New York Fashion Week presentations. The latest sneaker, which will retail at $160, combines elements of the Puma King soccer boot and the Easy Rider running shoe.

“Digging into Puma’s archives is always incredible,” Rihanna told Vogue. “There is so much history and legacy here, and I wanted to honor that by paying tribute to the Avanti. (The King is) the shoe (Brazilian soccer player) Pelé played in and made very famous, and I know people are looking forward to their return.”

The shoe features a vintage leather upper, a foldable tongue and a gum sole. They will also be available in kids’ sizes.

“This time around, we expanded our creations to kids, ’cause I selfishly want my boys in everything their dad and I wear or design,” added the performer, who shares two children with rapper A$AP Rocky.

The sneakers will be available worldwide from September 15.

Joe Budden Calls Cardi B & Megan Thee Stallion’s “Bongos” Single “Commercialized Ratchet”

Joe Budden has made a living sharing his outspoken opinions with anyone willing to listen. As the titular host of The Joe Budden Podcast, he dishes them out left and right—and nobody is off limits. On the latest episode of the show, Budden lays into Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion’s new collaboration, “Bongos,” which arrived on Friday (September 8).

“This record don’t seem like it has lasting power,” the podcaster said. “It’s that hard-ass beat, the hook is not hooking for me, there’s nothing in it to make it stay, one, and two, I know y’all think Sexyy Red is paying me she’s not, but this commercialized ratchet has passed.  It’s ghetto ratchet time. Neither one of them are ghetto ratchet on this song. I think they both have potential to be, and Cardi normally smokes ghetto ratchet, but she’s too big.”

He added, “And neither one of them are ghetto ratchet on this song. We need a ‘Bodak Yellow’ now. This sounds like two women who can’t make a song.”

“Bongos” debuted at #70 on the Global Spotify charts and had a Top 50 Billboard projection after just 24 hours. Release on Atlantic Records, the track marks the beginning of Cardi B’s rollout for her sophomore album. The accompanying music video features Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion at a beach wearing over-the-top accessories and custom fits. Ahead of its arrival, Cardi B claimed she tricked her fans into thinking the collaboration would be something as salacious as “WAP.”

“Let me tell you something,” Cardi B said last week. “Me and [Megan Thee Stallion], we tricked y’all. We tricked you muthafuckas. These covers we tricked you b##ches. You wanna know how we tricked ya?” she continued. “Because this is not the theme of the song or the video. We want y’all to believe that it’s giving something that it’s not [laughs].”

Project Blowed Member 2Mex Needs $20K For New Prosthetic Leg

Project Blowed member and veteran West Coast underground Hip-Hop staple 2Mex is in need of some help. Seven years after diabetic complications led to an emergency leg amputation, The Visionaries MC will need to replace his prosthetic. On Saturday (September 9), fellow Visionaries member Key-Kool launched a GoFundMe in an effort to raise enough money to buy 2Mex a new one.

As Key-Kool explained in the description, “Alex has fallen several times recently due to his leg not fitting correctly. Typically prosthetics last for 3 to 5 years, Alex has now has his for 7. Thank you everyone for the continued support for Alex, we are truly grateful for being able to still have our brother here, still being the amazing being that he is.”

He signed the description: “Eternally thankful, Key-Kool on behalf of the Visionaries Zen, Dannu, Rhettmatic, LMNO & 2Mex.”

The goal is set at $20,000 and so far, the fundraiser has collected nearly $4,000. 2Mex released a video requesting some assistance, admitting, “I gotta put my pride to the side and with all humbleness request if you can help spread the word on my GoFundMe ’cause I need a new prosthetic, dude. I have this prosthetic since 2016 and it doesn’t fit anymore. I’ve gotten adjustments to it and still, my leg keeps getting smaller and smaller as I get smaller, and it just doesn’t fit. I keep falling every couple weeks, and it’s embarrassing to keep falling and damaging my legs and knees and falling in front of your parents and just falling on the hot asphalt at Rite-Aid. It’s just embarrassing. I can’t keep falling.”

Born Alejandro Ocana, the Los Angeles native got his start rapping at the Good Life Cafe with The Visionaries and Of Mexican Decent before breaking out on his own. He was also part of the Look Daggers with the late Ikey Owens and The Mind Clouders with producer Mums the Word. His health troubles began in 2016 when he was rushed to the hospital with a blood sugar of over 700 (normal blood sugar is between 80-140). His foot was so infected, doctors informed him his leg would need to be amputated.

“Surgery went ok,” he explained in an Instagram update. “My foot looks like a shark bit through it honestly. Doctor just told me there a 70 percent chance that my foot will be amputated because we don’t want it to go up into my leg. And or kill me. I’ve been on so much morphine that I haven’t been able to see straight for 2 days. Thank u for all the message and love truly. I will deal the future soon and I apologize for not responding. Please send this to my world wide family. I will survive this.”

Not only did 2Mex survive, he thrived. In 2017, he released an album called Lospital featuring Slug of Atmosphere and Ariano, which explored such topics as depression, suicide, self-doubt and perseverance.

“I’m blessed,” he said at the time. “I’m super happy. I’m back to touring again and it’s a good thing. I’m walking and s###. I’m driving. I have a license and insurance. If you knew me, you’d be shocked. I rolled so dirty for so long. The DMV was like, ‘You’re alive?’ The government had no idea I was alive [laughs]. ‘Lospital’ is just a made-up word like, ‘lost in the hospital. That was just my experience. I feel like we can get lost in a hospital because everyone is hurting—not just physically—but they might have lost their insurance or stuff like that. We’re being overwhelmed by too much noise, too many ads, too much medication … I rejected all that s###. I paid for it in pain.”

Those interested in donating to 2Mex’s GoFundMe can head here.

Jimmy Fallon Apologizes To Staff For Nightmare Working Environment

Jimmy Fallon has apologized to his employees on “The Tonight Show” after being accused of fostering a toxic workplace environment.

In a report published on Rolling Stone, two current and 14 former staffers claimed the host’s erratic behavior had fostered an unhealthy work environment on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”

Fallon and his showrunner Chris Miller jumped on a Zoom call with their staff to apologize and the host insisted that he did not intend to “create that type of atmosphere for the show.”

Two employees on the call told the publication that Fallon said, “It’s embarrassing and I feel so bad. Sorry if I embarrassed you and your family and friends… I feel so bad I can’t even tell you.”

He added, “I want the show to be fun, (it) should be inclusive to everybody. It should be the best show.”

The staff members also noted that Fallon “felt pretty earnest” in the meeting, during which he also acknowledged the ever-changing leadership and assured them that Miller was not going anywhere.

According to reports, Miller sent an email to staffers Thursday morning to address the report.

“While I know the reporter reached out to many of you before the piece ran, I don’t believe what’s written is reflective of the overall culture of our extraordinary team that I’m so lucky and proud to work with every day,” he wrote. “The place described in the article is not the place I know. Still, it’s disappointing to see something published that does not capture the positive and inclusive environment I believe we have created together.”

A spokesperson for the network NBC said in a statement, “We are incredibly proud of ‘The Tonight Show,’ and providing a respectful working environment is a top priority. As in any workplace, we have had employees raise issues; those have been investigated and action has been taken where appropriate.”

Fallon took over as the host of “The Tonight Show” in 2014.

Will Jeezy Become A Trap DJ?

Who knew it? Young Jeezy, when he was still named Lil J, was trying to be a DJ. Jeezy isn’t that young anymore. He was trying to DJ back in the day with artists like “Salt-N-Pepa” and songs like “Planet Rock.” That’s straight up old school! Anyway, this all started in his cousin’s garage. All of a sudden, he starts to learn the ropes of DJing, and even earned some money! Jeezy went and purchased two Technics SL-1200 turntables and began amassing vinyl records.

He and his people organized parties, giving away free tickets to ensure a packed house, and rocked the house. Eventually, his stuff was swiped by some bum, but he was able to capture the art of it all. This really is not a rumor, but there is a part that is rumor-like. In this interview with DJ Thoro and Chuck “Jigsaw” Creekmur, Jeezy floats out there that he may start DJing again! Jeezy clearly knows the value of his celebrity and the fact that the art of the DJ has reached new levels since those old days. He noted people like Shaq out there rocking the crowd! Check out the interview below.

AllHipHop: So, Jeezy, you mentioned in your book that your first hands-on introduction to music was when you tried DJing with Salt-N-Pepa’s “Push It” and Afrika Bambaataa’s “Planet Rock.” Can you tell us more about how you initially wanted to become a DJ?

Jeezy: Yeah, absolutely. You see, it all started with my cousin, one of my cousins who was deep into the DJ scene long before I even thought about it. He was living in Atlanta, and when we used to hang out at my auntie’s house there, it was something else. They had this massive mansion, one of the biggest I’d ever seen, and it had this impressive garage. Now, when you walked into that garage, you’d see all the latest cars, and right in the midst of it all were his turntables. I’d watch him work his magic, mixing tracks, and every so often, he’d ask me if I wanted to give it a try. Of course, I jumped at the opportunity.

AllHipHop: So, you got your first taste of DJing from your cousin’s setup. When did you realize you had a real passion for it?

Jeezy: It didn’t take long at all. I mean, the moment I started experimenting with DJing, I fell head over heels in love with it. As I started hustling and managed to save up a bit of money, I didn’t waste any time. I bought my own pair of turntables, Technics SL-1200s to be exact, and started collecting vinyl records. I set up my gear on my grandmother’s dresser at her house, and every morning, I’d wake up and start mixing. That’s when I knew I was onto something special.

AllHipHop: That’s quite the journey from being a curious observer to becoming a dedicated DJ. Can you tell us about the next step you took in your DJing career?

Jeezy: Absolutely. So, as I continued honing my DJ skills, I started thinking about ways to take it to the next level. I was in a small town with a population of maybe 2 to 300 people, and most of them were Black. That’s when the idea of starting a production company came up. I pitched the idea to my friends, but I made it clear that the one thing I wanted to keep doing was DJing. We organized parties, even though we weren’t making much money. I had these cheap speakers, and I remember a junkie stealing them, which was a setback. But despite all that, I kept DJing, and the parties were a hit.

AllHipHop: Do you ever think about pursuing DJing professionally?

Jeezy: You know, it’s funny you mention that. Given where I started and where I am now, it’s a wild thought. DJing is still a big part of me, and I think it’s always going to be a part of who I am. The direction life has taken me is foreign to where I began, but I wouldn’t change a thing about my journey. Who knows, maybe I’ll find my way back to the turntables someday.