Nelly Source Says Rapper Has Sold Half His Music Catalog For $50 Million

Nelly has apparently sold half of his music catalog for $50 million. A source close to the rapper tells AllHipHop Nelly has partnered with HarbourView Equity Partners, who has agreed to the purchase  select recorded assets. The deal includes some of Nelly’s most iconic tracks such as “Ride Wit Me,” “Dilemma” featuring Kelly Rowland and, of course, “Hot in Herre. “

Nelly also recently announced his new beverage MoShine, which is inspired by his love of Hip-Hop and country music.

“I’m taking a country tradition and mixing it up for everyone to enjoy,” Nelly said. “The corn-based moonshine comes in peach and passion fruit flavors and are smooth enough for shots or can be paired with a variety of mixers. Where I come from, we work hard and play harder, and I want my fans to be able to reach for MoShine anytime they’re ready to get the party started.”

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In addition to his latest business ventures, Nelly is currently working on a new album entitled Heartland 2. The first installment was Nelly’s first full country inspired album that produced the 3x-platinum single “Lil Bit” as well as collaborations with Breland. Its sequel will serve as the country-inspired edition and feature all female collaborations.

Nelly also has reignited his romance with Ashanti. The couple dated for years before calling it quits 2013. They seemingly got back together earlier this year. Rumors ran wild following a performance of Nelly’s “Body On Me” featuring Ashanti at TAO Beach Dayclub in Las Vegas. They were then spotted holding hands at the Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia fight.

Two NBA Stars’ Sons—Bronny James & Shareef O’Neal—Denied Entrance To Saweetie’s Party

Despite being the sons of two of the National Basketball Association (NBA)’s most merited players, Bronny James and Shareef O’Neal were denied access to one of the hottest parties of the weekend.

The two ballers wanted to attend Saweetie’s birthday bash at Poppy, a popular Hollywood nightclub.

It seems the two yung’ins might not have been let in because of the state’s strict age requirement. Poppy, a member of the H.wood Group, is an over 21 venue.

According to the California Restaurant Association, “The California Alcoholic Beverage Control statute states that minors are not allowed to enter or remain within a bar. Persons under 21 years of age may not enter and remain in any premises with a green-colored ABC license except on lawful business.”

Bronny James, the son of LeBron James and who was ranked one of the top high school athletes in the nation, is currently playing D1 basketball at the University of Southern California. Some even think once he turns 19, he;ll consider throwing his hat into the NBA Draft in 2024, per Sporting News.

Shareef O’Neal, the son of Shaquille O’Neal, is currently signed to the G League team, Ignite. He played in 20 games for the team, averaging 5.6 points and 3.2 rebounds in 15.5 minutes per game, according to Lakers Daily.

Shareef has played at two colleges: the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and Louisiana State University (LSU).

Mozzy Concert Mass Shooting Gets Kansas Nightclub Shut Down for 30 Days

A popular Wichita, Kansas nightclub, City Nightz, has been hit with a 30-day suspension following a mass shooting during an event featuring rapper Mozzy that left 11 people injured.

The Wichita Police Department (WPD) issued the suspension on Monday (July 3) in response to the early Sunday morning (July 2) incident.

Nine individuals sustained gunshot wounds, while two others were injured in the ensuing chaos as patrons rushed to exit the venue. Among those present at the club was rapper Mozzy, who’d just finished a concert.

Brandon Young, a 31-year-old from Florissant, Missouri, was arrested in connection with the incident. According to WPD Chief Joe Sullivan, Young was working as security for Mozzy.

Chief Sullivan told 12 News the shooting could’ve been prevented had patrons been screened before entering the club.

Mozzy was detained at the club where the shooting occurred but was later released without being charged. The rapper had recently completed a 10-month prison sentence on federal gun charges in May and was celebrating his freedom.

The incident at City Nightz is the latest in a series of violent events at the club.

So far, in 2023, the WPD has reported 12 incidents at the venue, three of which involved gun violence. The suspension is seen as a strong stance against the recurring violence.

MF DOOM’s Widow Breaks Silence On Rap Legend’s Cause Of Death

MF DOOM’s wife, Jasmine Dumile, has finally revealed what led to the rap legend’s 2020 death. Speaking to Leeds Live, Dumile explained her husband was seeking treatment at St. James Hospital in Leeds for a number of conditions, including high blood pressure and kidney disease. There, she said, his health “suddenly deteriorated.” While under a doctor’s care, DOOM was prescribed ACE inhibitors to treat his high blood pressure. After just two doses, Dumile said his tongue and throat began to swell.

On October 21, 2020, just 10 days before DOOM’s death, he called Dumile in distress and complained he couldn’t breathe. As he tried to get off his hospital gurney, he collapsed and suffered respiratory arrest. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions at the time, Dumile said she couldn’t visit her husband in the hospital until October 31. She told investigators, “That’s when the respirator was turned off that was helping him breathe.”

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Dumile’s legal team is asking medical staff how often they checked on DOOM and why there was an alleged two-hour delay in giving him medication for his swelling throat. At one point, DOOM’s condition was reportedly improving; his oxygen levels were elevated and he was able to speak with doctors.

Doctors noted the swelling of his tongue, throat and lips was a “rare” side effect of the ACE inhibitors, which caused a condition called angiodema (a swelling similar to hives, but which takes place under the skin instead of on the surface). Following DOOM’s death, the hospital trust carried out a “serious incident investigation” to determine what went wrong. The inquiry into DOOM’s death is reportedly ongoing.

Although MF DOOM died in October 2020, Dumile waited until December 31, 2020 to make the news public. She noted in her Instagram announcement, “My world will never be the same without you.” DOOM was 49 at the time of his death and leaves behind five children.

Cardi B & Offset Together In Paris After Infidelity Controversy

One of rap’s most beloved couples seems to be back on track following a public spat. Paparazzi snapped Cardi B and Offset hand-in-hand in Paris on Tuesday (July 4). According to the Daily Mail, the two were spotted heading to their car after shopping at Balenciaga.

The two were previously fighting on social media, tossing out allegations of infidelity. On June 26, Offset tweeted, “My wife f##### a n#### on me gang yall n####s know how I come.” The post was quickly deleted but not before the Bronx-bred rapper saw it.

https://twitter.com/i/spaces/1zqKVPXeENDJB

Cardi B took to Twitter Spaces to address the rumors head-on, singing Keyshia Cole’s opening lines of “I Should Have Cheated.”

“First of all let me say/You can’t accuse me of all the things/You know that you are guilty of
And I see/That it is easy for you to blame everything on me,” she warbled, missing multiple keys and notes.

She then told her fans not to “pay attention to the country man” and reminded everyone that if she stepped out on her man, everyone would know because of her celebrity status.

Cardi B directed her attention to Offset, saying “Please boy, stop acting stupid.” The two seem to have patched things up and are making a public show in La Ville Lumière for Paris Fashion Week.

Emerging Artist Aspect Zavi Unleashes His Power-packed Project “No. Risk. No. Reward.”

Aspect Zavi, the rising multi-talented artist, songwriter, and dancer, is ready to stun the music world with his highly anticipated new project, “No. Risk. No. Reward.” 

This adrenaline-fueled track showcases Aspect Zavi’s unique blend of melodic rap and infectious beats, solidifying his place as one of the most exciting artists to watch out for.

With a distinctive sound and undeniable charisma, Aspect Zavi has developed a devoted fan base, quickly gaining recognition for his dynamic performances. 

Inspired by his life experiences and driven by a relentless work ethic, he has garnered attention from renowned industry professionals and peers alike. “No. Risk. No. Reward.” is set to be another significant milestone in his ascent to stardom.

Aspect Zavi’s latest release serves as a rallying call for dreamers and risk-takers, encouraging listeners to embrace their ambitions while reminding them that every reward comes with a sacrifice. 

The lyrics are embedded with authentic emotions, reflecting Aspect Zavi’s personal journey and the challenges he overcame to pursue his dreams. Combining introspective verses with an infectious chorus, “No. Risk. No. Reward.” is both thought-provoking and catchy, leaving listeners craving more.

The project’s production intricately weaves together pulsating beats, atmospheric soundscapes, and captivating melodies that perfectly complement Aspect Zavi’s charismatic vocals. With a polished and professional sound, it is clear that Aspect Zavi is poised for greatness and has an innate ability to connect with his audience on a deeply personal level.

As a multifaceted artist, Aspect Zavi’s talents extend beyond music. 

Already known for his electrifying dance performances, his captivating energy effortlessly translates into his music videos, elevating the entire auditory and visual experience. Fans can expect an accompanying music videos for “No. Risk. No. Reward.” that will undoubtedly captivate and inspire.

Aspect Zavi’s trajectory has been on a rapid rise, with notable accomplishments already under his belt and an ever-growing social media following. Garnering millions of views across platforms, Aspect Zavi has cultivated a strong online presence that showcases his versatility and magnetic personality.

As he continues to evolve as an artist, Aspect Zavi remains determined to make an indelible mark on the music scene. “No. Risk. No. Reward.” serves as a testament to his unwavering drive and showcases his potential to become a breakout star in 2021 and beyond. Keep an eye out for more exciting releases from this rising sensation.

To stay up-to-date with Aspect Zavi’s latest news, releases, and performances, follow him on Instagram @Aspectzavi_ 

Listen to “No. Risk. No. Reward.”

Too $hort Kicks Off 4th of July Weekend At Arts District Cannabis Reopening

“What’s my favorite word? B####!” Too $hort is a walking legend, someone who’s impacted a whole generation of rappers that came after home. While he represents Oakland and the Bay Area to the fullest, most people may not know that Too $hort was actually born in Los Angeles. In the early 1980’s, his family relocated to Oakland.. which is where his music career began.

Saturday, July 1st proved to be a beautiful day in Los Angeles, with the sun blazing down on the city. It also marked the relaunch of Arts District Cannabis, which was previously known as Coast To Coast Cannabis. Located inside the city’s Arts District, just a few minutes away from downtown Los Angeles, the dispensary and grow facility is home to legacy cannabis brand 3C Farms.

In fact, 3C Farm’s Illuminati OG is the only flower Too $hort smokes! Around noon, Too $hort arrived and made his grand entrance, moments before he had to take off on a flight to the Bay Area. He was scheduled to perform a song at the San Jose Earthquakes game, later hosting Mistah FAB’s pool party in Sacramento.

From 10am to 4pm, everything in the store was 50% off. Mariel Angela was present to live paint, showcasing Arts District Cannabis’ mission to highlight local, rising artists and creatives. Their mission is to bridge the gap between arts and cannabis, and what better way than to kick off July 4th weekend with just that?!

3C Farms has been praised as one of the most potent, high-quality flower brands that the city has seen yet, using genetics such as an original cut of OG that was birthed in the late 90’s. From growing in basements of houses in Woodland Hills to now owning LA’s longest-standing dispensaries in the Arts District and Canoga Park.
For more information, visit artsdistrictcannabis.com.

Cam’ron & Ma$e Roast Fat Joe For “Dick From Kansas” Comment

Fat Joe has found himself in the crosshairs of fellow East Coast rappers Cam’ron and Ma$e. The “Horse & Carriage” collaborators clowned Joe on the latest edition of their “It Is What It Is” sports talk show.

While appearing on ESPN as part of the network’s 2023 NBA Draft coverage, Fat Joe made some remarks that became a topic of conversation on social media. The “All The Way Up” hitmaker discussed former Kansas Jayhawks player Gradey Dick.

“As a Knick fan… I like Dick from Kansas,” Fat Joe told ESPN personalities Stephen A. Smith and Kevin Negandhi during the broadcast. Eventually, the Toronto Raptors drafted Gradey Dick with the No. 13 pick in this year’s draft.

The “Dick from Kansas” comment spread across the internet as trolls and jokesters made fun of Fat Joe for the unintentional sexual innuendo. Last month, Joe took to Instagram Live to address the jabs headed in his direction.

“Shoutout to Cam’ron and Ma$e for not roasting me yet,” Fat Joe said. He also added, “I’m too old to play the pause game. I’m for everybody. Hey, you take it how you want to. I’m very confident in who I am. I’m Joe Crack Da Don. I don’t play the pause game. That’s years ago.”

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A post shared by Gradey Dick (@gradey)

Even though Fat Joe showed appreciation to the “It Is What It Is” crew for not ribbing him, Cam’ron and Ma$e still decided to take a few good-natured shots at the Bronx native. They talked about the viral moment on Episode 26 of their show.

“Joe, we love you,” a laughing Cam’ron said. “If you’re on Earth, you play [the pause game]. Once you say you don’t play, you’re playing. If you don’t play, why say you don’t play? You don’t gotta announce it. And if it didn’t bother you, you ain’t gotta double back and be like, ‘I don’t care. I said I liked Dick from Kansas, that’s a player.’ Pause.”

Both Cam’ron and Ma$e went on to say Fat Joe was “out of pocket” for his take on Gradey Dick. Cam also offered, “You could say, ‘I mess with [Gradey] from Kansas.’ He had two names, bro. He got a first name and a last name.”

Then Ma$e interjected, “He chose to go with Dick.” Cam’ron ended the segment by saying, “Yo Crack, you can say you don’t play [the pause game]. You’re my man, but listen, the internet says different. Pause.”

Trippie Redd Slams Media For Sparking Weed Rumor: “I Never Got Kicked Off A Plane!”

Trippie Redd has come forward to deny what he says is a bogus rumor. On Tuesday (July 4), he hopped onto his Instagram Stories and addressed the issue—and he had a lot to say.

While working to vindicate his name, he remained surprisingly calm. Then, the “Miss The Rage” rapper politely read the misinformed outlets. He offered, “I see media outlets keep reaching.”

“I never got kicked off a plane for trying to smoke weed,” the accomplished musician clarified. He also insisted, “I had smoked weed before I got on the flight and my homie, he smelled like weed in the back of the plane.”

Trippie Redd was far from finished. He continued, “I heard the flight attendant say something, so I walked to the back to see what was up. Then they got to yelling at me. I left, I went and got a private jet. Honestly, I feel like the flight attendants got some sort of attitude or some type of animosity like they hate their job or something.”

Finally, the spitter stated, “I’m fine flying first class but when I feel disrespected or not welcomed, I will fly private because I feel like I got to get to my bag if I’m going to pick up $350,000, $20,000 ain’t s###. Put some respect on it.”

50 Cent Didn’t Like “Many Men” Song, According To Tony Yayo

“Many Men (Wish Death)” is one of the standout records on 50 Cent’s classic debut album, Get Rich or Die Tryin’. The 3x-platinum track became a Hip-Hop standard in the 20 years since its release in 2003.

How did 50 Cent actually feel about the B-side to his “21 Questions” single? According to one of his G-Unit artists at the time, the rap mogul wasn’t a fan of the “Many Men” song.

In a trailer for N.O.R.E. and DJ EFN’s Drink Champs podcast, Yayo matter-of-factly tells the hosts, “50 didn’t even like ‘Many Men.'”

Viewers will have to wait until the full Drink Champs episode airs on Thursday (July 6) to hear Tony Yayo’s full thoughts on “Many Men.” The trailer also teases Yayo discussing 50 Cent, G-Unit, Jay-Z, Beyoncé, DJ Khaled, Eminem and more.

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Eminem co-produced 50 Cent’s “Many Men” along with Darrell “Digga” Branch and Luis Resto. The song’s official Jessy Tererro-directed music video featured appearances by actors Mekhi Phifer and Tommy Lister.

Late Brooklynite Pop Smoke’s “Got It on Me” interpolated “Many Men” in 2020. 21 Savage and Metro Boomin also borrowed elements from 50 Cent’s song for another 2020 track titled “Many Men.”

Plus, Bronx-raised rapper Lil Tjay dropped “FACESHOT (Many Men Freestyle)” in September 2022. In April, AEW wrestlers The Gunns used “Many Men” as the then-tag team champion’s entrance music for a match against the former champs FTR.

Ice Spice Reacts To Being Compared To A Child With Down Syndrome

2023 has been a huge breakout year for Ice Spice. But some critics continue to take shots at the “Munch (Feelin’ U)” rapper for various reasons.

One Twitter user recently went beyond discussing Ice Spice’s music or rapping skills and took aim at her appearance. In a now-limited tweet, the @illy_ilz account compared the 23-year-old entertainer to a child with Down syndrome.

Ice Spice saw the meant-to-be insulting post and responded by showing love to the girl in the photo. The Bronx-raised rhymer quote-tweeted @illy_ilz and added, “[You] thought [you] ate but my sis cute [as f###].” Spice’s tweet amassed over 220,000 likes.

Meanwhile, Ice Spice racked up another Top 10 entry on the Billboard Hot 100 chart this week. “Barbie World”— her latest collaboration with Nicki Minaj—debuted at No. 7 on the most recent rankings of the most popular songs in America.

Ice Spice and Nicki Minaj also linked up for “Princess Diana,” which peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in April. Additionally, Ice Spice made it into the Top 10 thanks to February’s “Boy’s a Liar Pt. 2” with PinkPantheress (No. 3) and May’s “Karma” with Taylor Swift (No. 2).

On June 25, Ice Spice performed “Munch (Feelin’ U),” “Princess Diana” and “In Ha Mood” at the 2023 BET Awards in Los Angeles. “In Ha Mood” also charted on the Hot 100, peaking at No. 58 in March. The Capitol recording artist dropped the Like..? EP in January.

Charlamagne Tha God: “Cardi B Did For Female Rap What Jay-Z & Drake Did”

Female rappers have been dominating much of the conversation in rap culture over the last year. Cardi B, Latto, Nicki Minaj, Ice Spice, GloRilla, Coi Leray, Sexxy Redd, Lola Brooke, Doechii and others left a mark on the charts and in the clubs.

Rap fans also got to see several of these high-profile stars collaborate together for hit records. Cardi B teamed up with GloRilla for 2022’s “Tomorrow 2” and Latto for this year’s “Put It On Da Floor Again.”

In 2019, Cardi B joined forces with City Girls for “Twerk.” The following year, the Bronx native recruited Megan Thee Stallion for the global smash “WAP,” which earned a 7x-platinum certification from the RIAA.

The music video for “WAP” also featured cameos by Latto, Rubi Rose and Sukihana. Plus, a simple Cardi B co-sign can focus mainstream eyes on a rising talent like Scar-Lip.

Media personality Charlamagne Tha God gives Cardi B credit for ushering in a female rap era that centers around cooperation. The Breakfast Club radio host even compared the “Bodak Yellow” hitmaker to two male rap G.O.A.T. contenders.

“Salute to Cardi. Cardi shifted that in the culture,” Charlamagne Tha God said on the Its Up There Podcast. “Because Cardi made it where you’re the OG, you’re the person that’s made all the money, you sold all the records, but you have no problem putting your arm around that next person.”

CTG also added, “Cardi did for female rap what Jay-Z and Drake did. Whatever that next thing that’s out, Jay-Z would jump on it. Whether it’s Juvenile’s ‘Ha,’ whether it was Houston, whether it was Rick Ross, whoever it was, Jay was jumping on that.”

“Drake did the same thing. Drake did it with lesser-known artists. What Drake did was make the record big. I think what Jay did with those co-signs was he made the artist big,” Charlamagne told Big Loon. CTG continued, “I think Cardi’s doing both. I think Cardi’s helping to make the artist big and she’s helping to make the music big.”

Cardi B worked with another up-and-comer for a new song dropping on Friday, June 7. The Grammy winner collaborated with Chicago-based artist Fendi Da Rapper for an official remix of “Point Me To The S####” titled “Point Me 2.”

Yung Joc Blasts Women Who Chose $50 Gift Card Over 30 Minutes With Him

Yung Joc is best known for releasing the 3x-platinum “It’s Goin’ Down” single. He also gained fame for appearing on Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta and hosting a radio show on Streetz 94.5.

Earlier this week, 856 Entertainment shared a video in which someone asked people if they preferred to have a $50 Amazon gift card or 30 minutes with Yung Joc. Most of the women answered they’d take the gift card.

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Yung Joc got wind of 856 Entertainment’s Instagram post about him. The 42-year-old New Joc City album creator jumped into the comment section to let the world know how he felt about the results of the impromptu poll.

“Y’all would have no choice cause I wouldn’t f### with not one of them in the first place. 1. I’m happily married 2. That s### [cap],” wrote Yung Joc on the social media platform.

Joc continued, “3. He never said have sex with me he just said 30 min with me and y’all would get at least $300 worth of food and shots if I did allow y’all in my immediate vicinity 😂😂😂 4. I ain’t never had a problem getting no woman lol 5. I would give y’all $100 Amazon gift card to stay the fvxk over there ❤️.”

Hypothetical questions like “50 Amazon gift card or 30 mins with Yung Joc?” have become a trendy topic on the internet. For example, social media users engaged in the “$500,000 or dinner with Jay-Z” debate for years.

Earlier this year, Soulja Boy took issue with people deciding that $250 in food stamps is more valuable than a dinner with the “Crank That” hitmaker. In response, Soulja Boy went on an expletive-filled rant where he called the women “AIDS-infested hoes.”

NLE Choppa Defends Sexyy Red Following Online Attacks 

Sexyy Red has some hefty co-signs from her peers, including Nicki Minaj, who hopped on the remix to her breakthrough hit “Pound Town.” But she’s on the receiving end of a lot of hate, and NLE Choppa is speaking out about it. 

The St. Louis native has been making waves since the Tay Keith-assisted smash hit “Pound Town” became a viral sensation on TikTok after its January release.  

However, her recent appearance at the 2023 BET Awards made Sexyy Red the talk of the town after she and a heavily pregnant Chrisean Rock put on an impromptu performance of her raunchy hit song from the audience. 

NLE Choppa caught wind of the negative comments and took to social media to defend his “S### me out” collaborator. He called out the haters, saying he loves the rapper’s energy and music. NLE Choppa urged people to stop the online attacks and be more open-minded in their music tastes.  

“Y’all need people like Sexyy Red to create a balance from serious music,” NLE Choppa explained in a video. “And s### that you can have fun to.”  

Choppa pointed out Sexyy Red has a child to support and “she’s making money trying to make sure that her baby is straight.” NLE Choppa also said he was defending Sexyy Red because he hasn’t seen anybody else do it.  

“Why our own community gotta tear down our own people?” he asked before questioning why fans don’t embrace her or try to understand her music.  

He captioned the video, “Y’all don’t know how comments can effect someone everyday life. Keep being you @SexyyRed314_ don’t change for nobody but yourself! You know I’m supporting!”

Lil Uzi Vert Promises Fans Their Dream Album—But Under One Condition 

After years of delays, Lil Uzi Vert shows no signs of slowing down following the release of their highly anticipated album, Pink Tape

The project is less than a week old, but the “Just Wanna Rock” hitmaker is already gearing up for his next release. But he’s not dropping a deluxe edition but another album, and it’s one that fans can’t wait to get their hands on. 

However, Lil Uzi had one request for fans before delivering on their promise. They shared a photo of the Pink Tape album cover on his Instagram Story Tuesday (July 4).  

“Get this 2 number one and I will drop the album y’all really looking for,” Lil Uzi wrote. 

Instagram/Lil Uzi

Lil Uzi Vert returned a little while later with a bio update to tease the project in question. “Luv is rage 3,” Uzi wrote, hinting at a follow-up to his 2017 debut album. 

Lil Uzi fans just might get their hands on the album of their dreams. Pink Tape is expected to top the charts later this week, dethroning Morgan Wallen’s 15-non-consecutive week reign on the Billboard 200. The project would become the first hip-hop album of 2023 to debut at No. 1. 

According to Chart Data, Pink Tape is projected to earn between 220,000 and 250,000 equivalent album units in its first week. If successful, it would be enough to secure a No. 1 debut on the chart. 

While many fans rushed to run the number up, others questioned how Uzi has time for a new album. The Philly rapper recently announced they plan to tour later this year. During a live stream with Twitch streamer Kai Cenat last month, Lil Uzi promised he would hit the road for a Pink Tape tour beginning “right after the summer.” 

India.Arie Slams Megan Thee Stallion & Janelle Monáe For Hot Girl Boot Camp Twerk-Fest  

Megan Thee Stallion wrapped up the 2023 ESSENCE Fest with a bang, inviting 20 fans from the crowd to join her onstage for a twerk session. 

After rocking the stage with her hit songs, the self-proclaimed H-Town Hottie snapped up the best dancers to “pop their s###” for the crowd. The “Plan B” hitmaker directed them as they showed off their Megan Thee Stallion knees.

Janelle Monáe, who came under fire for flashing her breast at the festival, played hype woman, rousing the dancers from the side of the stage as they showcased their moves.  

“Hot girl bootcamp was in full effect last night. It’s @janellemonae with the encouragement for us,” the outlet captioned the video. 

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A post shared by ESSENCE (@essence)

India.Arie Calls Out Megan Thee Stallion And Janelle Monáe

However, not everybody was impressed with India.Arie sparking a discussion about whether the dancing was appropriate for the festival.  

“This wont age well,” she wrote in a lengthy response in the comment section, questioning if twerking paints the culture in a respectful light.  

“The issue is what is CONTEXT. Humanity does EVERYTHING. But does EVERYTHING BELONG IN A STAGE. No. is everything for KIDS? No. is everything for EVERY BODY?,” she began before adding “ NO. so when we as a culture make something like this mainstream ~ it shows a lack of discretion [and] discernment.  

The “Brown Skin” singer acknowledged that others might not agree with her but also reiterated her point.  

“Just as many folks have the right to want our MAINSTREAM International export – out Music – to show us in a respectful light,” she continued. “Id like to go on the record saying : this wont age well and thats my issue.” 

India.Arie concluded by saying that although she loves Megan Thee Stallion and Janelle Monáe, “i dont like this moment.” Read her comments in full below.  

Instagram/India.Arie

Lil Yachty Trolls Andrew Tate Following Drake Pink Manicure Diss 

Drake has been sporting a new look on his nails recently, but not everybody is a fan.  

The rap superstar recently got a fresh pink manicure as part of his preparations for his highly anticipated It’s All A Blur Tour with 21 Savage. While the rappers had to postpone their first 10 tour dates to the fall, Drizzy kept the nail art.  He showed off his new look on Instagram Monday (July 3) alongside an iced-out, rainbow-colored watch and freshly braided hair.  

However, his new look received a mixed response, with some branding Drizzy a “weirdo” for painting his nails. Controversial influencer Andrew Tate was appalled after catching sight of Drake’s painted talons. 

Although he’s currently facing a string of criminal charges in Romania, including rape, human trafficking and forming an organized crime group to sexually exploit women, Tate has been active on social media while he awaits trial.  

“Theres a reason I deny meeting all the famous people who try to meet me,” he tweeted. 

When Drake’s good friend and collaborator Lil Yachty saw Andrew Tate’s response, he trolled the British influencer in a reply dripping with sarcasm. Lil Boat frequently pains his nails and even launched his own nail care brand, Crete, in 2020.  

“Man dis s### weird AF‼️” he penned on Instagram. “SMH u used to be our HERO DRAKE ‼️ u let dat boy yatchy get 2 u‼️” 

Instagram/Lil Yachty

Meek Mill Responds After Being Clowned Over Viral Post-Party Photo  

Meek Mill is fighting back after growing tired of being the butt of internet jokes. He claims campaigns are being waged against him to twist fans’ perceptions of him. 

The “Dreams & Nightmares” hitmaker went viral Tuesday (July 4) after sharing a photo featuring the aftermath of his Reform Alliance partner Micheal Rubin’s annual Fourth of July white party. The star-studded bash brought together a host of A-List celebrities, including Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Kelly Rowland, Kim Kardashian, Kevin Hart, Kevin Durant and many more famous faces.  

While guests like Lori Harvey went viral after sharing TikTok-worthy footage from the bash, posting a mini-fashion show with her model friends, Meek Mill garnered social media attention for all the wrong reasons.  

After a heavy night partying with his friends, Meek Mill was a little worse for wear and posted the receipts himself. He shared a photo of himself bent over the toilet bowl with the caption, “Too much liquor smh.” 

Screenshots of the image were widely shared on social media, and soon many of Meek Mill’s famous memes began reappearing. As one of the most meme-able rappers in history, Drake once ridiculed Meek with a PowerPoint full of the most notorious images at the height of their rivalry, netizens had many to choose from. 

One post of his late-night restroom antics, captioned “Meek Mill is not a real person,” attracted more than 1.7 million views in just over nine hours. 

Meek Mill Reacts

Meek Mill caught wind of all the jokes and took to Twitter to respond. He claimed “small internet campaigns” are being waged against him to sway perception of him. 

However, he also pointed out artists now have their own platforms to communicate directly with their fans.

“We can say what we want at will in front of millions and they don’t feel that!” he said. “Anything I post they try to amplify it and me me look stupid. I wasn’t created on the internet and I know they got some of y’all in a trans threw social perception… that’s why content creators win because lead the narrative.” 

Benny Boom & Son Mini Boom Talk Legacy, Hip-Hop’s 50th & Working Together

Renowned director Benny Boom and his son, Mini Boom, discussed their shared legacy, the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop, and their experience of working together in a recent interview with AHH’s Chuck “Jigsaw: Creekmur at the BET Awards.

The father-son duo spoke about their individual journeys in the music industry, with Mini Boom following in his father’s footsteps as a music producer.

“It’s really inspirational, honestly, because everybody here considers him as a legend, and I just want to build my way up to having that sort of legacy,” Mini Boom said, reflecting on his father’s influence on his career.

He started making beats in fifth grade, and his father encouraged him to take it more seriously. Benny Boom, known for his work in music, television, and film, expressed his excitement about working with his son.

“It’s insane because I’m at a different place in my career… it affords me the time and opportunity to spend some time with him,” Benny Boom said. He also spoke about the artists Mini Boom has been working with, including Serena Smart, Fivio Foreign, DFM $loan, and Busta Rhymes.

Benny Boom, born Benny Douglas on July 22, 1971, is an American director who has worked extensively in music, television, and film. He is best known for directing the 2017 Tupac Shakur biopic “All Eyez on Me.”

Raised in West Philadelphia and then Mount Airy, his curiosity about the visual differences between sitcoms and the evening news led him to film school.

Mini Boom, who has been making a name for himself in the music industry, has worked with a variety of artists and is carving out his own legacy. He has been in the studio with several artists, creating a vibe that makes everything flow better.

As Hip-Hop turns 50 this year, Benny Boom reflected on the genre’s evolution and the next iteration of the culture.

“I’m excited for what it has turned into…I’m excited about being able to usher in someone with the potential to actually change, be that next level of change, that next wave of change,” he said.

For more information about Benny Boom and Mini Boom, you can watch their full interview here.

Drill Rappers In The Cross-Hairs Of Maryland State’s Attorney After Surge In Violence

Maryland’s State’s Attorney, Aisha N. Braveboy, is taking a stand against the Drill Rap music genre and its producers in response to a surge in violent incidents in the state, some of which have been linked to the genre’s provocative themes.

Drill Rap, a music genre known for its explicit lyrics and violent narratives, has recently been implicated in a deadly gunfight that claimed the lives of two local performers, Money Bag KZ and Risque Luck. The incident, which unfolded at a motel in Suitland, was shockingly reminiscent of the violent scenarios often depicted in their music.

Braveboy, in a recent statement, expressed her deep concern about the genre’s potential to incite violence.

“We are very concerned about this particular form of rap music that not only celebrates violence but also directs violence,” she said. She further emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “When you’re talking about things that you have done, violent acts that have actually happened, or things that you actually intend to do, that causes other people to react. It has caused homicides, shootings, and other acts of violence to actually occur

The State’s Attorney is no stranger to dealing with cases involving Drill Rap artists. She previously handled a case involving a 14-year-old rapper, Baby K, who’s incarcerated for allegedly attempting to murder a student on a school bus.

Braveboy is now turning her attention to the producers of Drill Rap, urging them to consider the potential consequences of their content.

She said admitting to crimes they plan to or have committed is different, and “that is not protected, and that is something that we are going to go after.”

Despite the potential challenges posed by the First Amendment, Braveboy is committed to finding legal solutions to this issue. She’s currently directing her team of prosecutors to explore possible legal actions that could be taken against those who produce and promote content that incites violence.