Friday, December 4th is the day we’ve been waiting for! DMV’s own Rico Nasty will release her debut album to close out 2020.
Back in August, she announced that the album will be coming soon and now we have the date. After the success of her mixtapes ‘Nasty’ in 2018, and ‘Anger Management’ in 2019, Rico Nasty gave a few teasers for this year’s release with the songs “iPhone,” “Own It,” and “Don’t Like Me” featuring Gucci Mane & Don Toliver.
In an interview with NME earlier this year, Rico Nasty described ‘Nightmare Vacation’ sound like “‘Sugar Trap’ on steroids”. Which definitely excites us! With this being her first major album, she has placed some pressure on herself. During this interview she also shared her work timeline for her previous projects, “I made ‘Anger Management’ in a week. I made ‘Nasty’ and ‘Sugar Trap’ in around three months. I made ‘Tales Of Tacobella’ in a month – two, tops. I made this album in a year.” She admitted that she is “nervous” about releasing this album saying she “really tried to perfect her craft” while writing and recording ‘Nightmare Vacation’. “I hope that I’m not one of the people that over-perfected it and took away what [the fans] enjoyed.”
‘Nightmare Vacation’ will be available on all music streaming platforms on December 4, 2020.
2 Chainz latest project So Help Me God was supposed to hit the streets this past October 30th, but unfortunately that wasn’t the case and while his horde of fans continue to await it’s release he’s got a little something to hold them over until it does.
Self isolating at home with a gang of thick young women in his Mulatto assisted visuals to “Quarantaine Thick,” Chainz gives us an example of how exactly you get stubborn men to quarantine at home during a pandemic with little to no complaints. Just sayin.’
Back in New York Statik Selektah teams up two of New York’s finest in his animated visuals to “Keep It Moving” which features some real artistic visuals to bring Nas and Joey Bada$$’s clever lyricism to life. This was hella dope.
Check out the rest of today’s drops and some joints you might’ve missed over the weekend including work from Casanova featuring Ugly God and Duke Deuce, Sheck Wes, and more.
2 CHAINZ FT. MULATTO – “QUARANTINE THICK”
STATIK SELEKTAH FT. NAS & JOEY BADA$$ – “KEEP IT MOVING”
Megan Thee Stallion’s obsession with anime has now crossed over into the gaming world. The Houston hottie transformed into one of Mortal Kombat’s most popular character’s, Mileena, in a recent Instagram post.
The Houston hottie has always been upfront about her interests outside of music and hip hop. Meg dominates whatever arena she steps in including the anime world. Do not be fooled by the hype or recent popularity of anime, because she is a true fan. Meg often speaks publicly on her knowledge of her favorite shows through her social media.
Her latest collaboration with Mortal Kombat is timely as the latest Mortal Kombat (Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate) will be released November 17. According to an announcement from Warner Bros. Games, Mortal Kombat 11 Ultimate is scheduled to release globally on PlayStation®5, PlayStation®4, PlayStation®4 Pro, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One consoles, Nintendo Switch, PC and Stadia.
The special effects makeup and production is superb in this special Meg Thee Stallion partnership with Mortal Kombat. It is all in the details from her black and magenta bodysuit to Mileena’s weapon of choice, a long sword. Mileena is a classic player and occasional boss character from the Mortal Kombat series of fighting games. A dual sai-wielding assassin, she acts as the evil twin and magenta palette swap of Princess Kitana in Mortal Kombat II since 1993. It is only right that the anime-loving rapper cosplay in celebration of Mileena’s return.
Meg keeps everything authentic to who she is and the woman she is becoming. She is continuously getting to the bag through multiple partnerships. Even in the midst of a global pandemic and public scrutiny after being shot just a few months ago, the blessings have not slowed up for the talented rapper. Megan keeps it all very on brand partnering with Rihanna’s lingerie line Savage X Fenty and now, Mortal Kombat.
Artists are getting innovative since the live entertainment business has come to a complete halt. From releasing merchandise to increasing their streams, artists have had to find new ways to promote their existing and new music. The biggest and most lucrative form of marketing for artists has come from brand partnerships. We saw this with Travis Scott’s Mcdonald’s collaboration and similarly with Fabo’s recent partnership with Krystal.
This is the perfect collaboration and divine timing as people are home spending hours on their consoles. We suspect Meg Thee Stallion will return to anime with even bigger partnerships in the months to come and maybe even her own signature character. We can only manifest these things for the rap star, but it is definitely aligned with her passion for anime. Keep it up, hottie queen!
Offset is set to make his feature film debut in the forthcoming film American Sole, according to an exclusive interview from Deadline. The rapper is set to star in the film alongside previously announced stars Pete Davidson and O’Shea Jackson Jr. The movie is written and directed by Ian Edelman who also wrote and produced the HBO series How To Make It In America starring Kid Cudi.
The story of American Sole follows two twenty-somethings, played by Davidson and Jackson, with have loads of college debt who use their fast cash reselling sneakers to achieve their “American dream.” When their startup runs out of cash and a shady investor is their sole way out, their dream quickly becomes a nightmare. Offset plays a computer engineer who becomes a vital role in the storyline.
In February, Offset made his acting debut in the hit CBS drama television series NCIS.
Offset will be making his acting debut in this Sunday’s episode of ‘NCIS: Los Angeles.’ Here’s a preview: https://t.co/tj6EGAfDgQ
The Grammy nominated rapper mentioned in an interview how he spoke with LL Cool J about his interest in acting. LL Cool J made sure Offset was given the opportunity to audition. It appears the NCIS crew was elated to have him on set eventually casting him in a role for an episode earlier this year.
The world has witnessed Offset’s talent outside of his rap career. He showcases his theatrics in his music videos, in costume and while hanging out with his wife Cardi B and family. He is quite animated as fans can see through his social media and his presence on stage.
The beautiful thing about music is how universal and inclusive it is. To accompany his role in the upcoming film, Offset will be executively producing the soundtrack for American Sole as well.
Offset’s statement to Deadline: “This is my first feature film as an actor. After doing NCIS, I knew I wanted to do more acting. Landing this role in American Sole is dope. Not only do I get to star in the movie, but I get to bring my skills to the table as the curator and executive producer for the soundtrack. I’m bringing my world to the big screen. I hope the world is ready.”
It appears that the film has an all star cast and crew. Kevin Hart is producing the movie through his production company HartBeat, with Jake Stein of Scondo Productions and NBA All-Star and first-time film producer Chris Paul through his Ohh Dip!!! banner. HartBeat’s Bryan Smiley will serve as executive producer, with Drew Simon and Patricia Braga overseeing the project for STXfilms.
More artists are finding their way to the big screens. It is a smart move considering the rapper checks tend to run dry while the film and television industries provide a residual avenue for artists looking to sustain beyond their music careers. If you are passionate about film and television like Offset, then that is merely a bonus.
There is a great deal of excitement surrounding Offset’s addition to the cast. Surely, this feature film opportunity will lead to more roles for the talented rapper. The film’s release date has not yet been announced.
The Weeknd goes global with the release of “Hawái (Remix),” a new collaboration with Colombian superstar Maluma. The song is a reworked version of the original, which amassed more than 425 million views in three months.
Abel’s addition to the song comes with a bilingual twist. “So now he’s your heaven,” Weeknd sings on the track. “You’re lying to yourself and him to make me jealous / You put on such an act when you’re sleepin’ together / All this ’cause I said I don’t want marriage.”
Abel also tries his hand at the Spanish chorus, which Maluma originally sang. He also called himself “El Fin De Samana” on social media. That phrase is Spanish for “The Weekend.”
Maluma is well known for his high profile collaborations. Throughout his career, he’s teamed up with the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Ricky Martin, Thalia, Shakira, XXXTentacion, and Flo Rida, among others.
Meanwhile, Abel Tesfaye has been working with a slew of artists, as well. This year alone, the powerhouse has collaborated with Ariana Grande, Juice WRLD, Calvin Harris, and Bryson Tiller.
24kGoldn and iann Dior topped the Billboard Hot 100 with their rock-rap-infused collaboration, “Mood.” Now the song gets even more buzz with a high profile remix featuring Justin Bieber and J Balvin.
Fans also get a new verse from 24. “Number one song in the world so now she wanna date me,” he boasts. “Where I’m from, people like me don’t make it in the mainstream.” Later, Balvin reflects on a relationship in Spanish.
Bieber also adds to the theme with his verse. “You’ve been in a mood / You’ve been giving hella attitude,” he complains. “What I gotta do to get through to ya / I could never lose you / Maybe spend a night out on the town like we used to / We could sit around, watch funny shit on YouTube.”
Listen to the “Mood” remix below.
Swae Lee, Tyga, Lil Mosey — “Krabby Step”
Swae Lee, Tyga, and Lil Mosey go under the sea and right into a pineapple for “Krabby Step,” the latest single off the The Spongebob Movie: Sponge on the Run soundtrack.
Each rapper references the iconic animated series on the track. “I’m flipping them patties / I’m chillin’ with Patrick,” Swae says on the cut. “See Sandy Cheeks, I’m bursting her bubble / A jellyfish lover, I’ll catch me a couple.”
“Sandy, Patrick, it’s a vibe,” Tyga raps, “Mrs. Puff let me drive, whipping boat, I’m fine.” Later, he sing-raps about dropping his car’s top in Bikini Bottom and rhymes about Krabby Patties. Elsewhere, Lil Mosey shouts out Gary The Snail and Squidward Tentacles in his verse.
This is the latest single off the aforementioned soundtrack. It was produced by global beat maker Tainy and Albert Hype for Neon 16. Prior to this, Tainy also produced the J Balvin single “Agua” off the soundtrack.
Head under the sea for “Krabby Step” below.
2 Chainz feat. Mulatto — “Quarantine Thick”
2 Chainz and Mulatto connect on a new collaboration titled “Quarantine Thick.” As the title suggests, the new banger is an ode to some extra pounds earned during the pandemic.
“She say all the gyms closed so she feeling lazy,” 2 Chainz raps. “She been late night snacking but shorty still my baby.” Later, he also raps about spending money while wearing a mask in a strip club.
For her part, Mulatto says she’s “quarantine thick” before referencing her direct messages. “Got your favorite rapper in my DM trying to taste me / But I got my own bag so shit like that don’t phase me,” she raps. “Big Latto ain’t going for none of that.”
The colorful video for the new single features a pizza delivery man and a mansion full of women. It also includes a slumber party scene and twerking on a fancy staircase. Watch the dance-filled visual below.
Mike WiLL Made-It feat. Nicki Minaj & YoungBoy Never Broke Again — “What That Speed Bout!?”
Nicki Minaj and YoungBoy Never Broke Again join forces on Mike WiLL Made-It’s “What That Speed Bout!?” It’s the new single off Mike WiLL Made-It’s highly-anticipated forthcoming LP.
“I leave the club driving fast, baby, what that speed ‘bout?” NBA YoungBoy asks on the track. Nicki later adds: “If he got seen out with me, it’s a big look / Word to Pop, body smokin’ like a big blunt.”
The song’s music video was directed by Edgar Esteves and Austin McCraken. It features a futuristic and robotic aesthetic, including mechanical clones.
Diddy closes the video with a shoutout. “Everything you hear and everything you’re about to hear and all the important shit that you’re about to hear over the next couple of decades, Mike Motherfuckin’ WiLL made it,” he says.
It’s been a minute since Alicia Keys has graced us with her presence and though she’s not as visible these days as she was in the early 00’s, we’ll take whatever she gives us.
In her latest visuals to “A Beautiful Noise,” Alicia Keys and Brandi Carlile team up for a dope duet which features the two talented women at the helm of their own pianos as they belt out a soul moving song.
From R&B to rap, Lil Freaky looks to bring back the visor look and in his Future and Herion Young assisted clip to “27 Birdz” kicks it with his homies in front of the trap house where they move that work.
Check out the rest of today’s drops including work from YelloPain, Sa Money featuring Styles P, and more.
So many classic television series have successfully made their debut to Netflix this year. Comedy Central’s Chappelle’s Show is the most recent to be added to the streaming platform and fans of the show are thrilled.
The best news you've heard all year: Chappelle's Show is coming to Netflix US pic.twitter.com/yMOOaf3BDA
Comedian Dave Chappelle walked away from the show without warning in 2006 in the midst of recording Season 3. Despite laying the show to rest, fans continued binging reruns which aired in syndication on multiple networks.
Since then, Chappelle has publicly spoken about why he left the popular sketch show and a $50 million deal behind. In an interview with CBS News host Gayle King in 2017, Chappelle recalls being in a “very successful place,” the “emotional content of it didn’t feel anything like what I imagined success should feel like. It just didn’t feel right.” He eluded to no longer finding comfort in performing for the white man or in this case predominantly white corporation, Comedy Central.
Even after expressing his disdain with the network, the incomplete season was still released on DVD as Chapelle’s Show: The Lost Episodes, and Dave Chappelle was not pleased about it. He actually told Oprah in an interview that he intended to donate half of the funds from the DVD sales to charity. He remained elusive about his separation from Comedy Central and away from Chappelle’s Show but eventually made a few spontaneous appearances at stand-up venues at the time.
After his hiatus, Chappelle began working full time as a comedian in 2015. He quickly found success again a year later when Netflix announced a massive deal with the comedian to produce multiple new stand-up specials. He released Deep in the Heart of Texas and The Age of Spin in March of 2017, followed by Equanimity in September. His return came with rave reviews, for the most part, fans and critics praised his return. However, the new releases stirred up even more controversy than his previous work, touching on social and political topics that tend to leave some viewers angry.
Dave Chappelle left unamused and unbothered by their opinions. He tells critics to “shut the f**k up forever” while accepting his Emmy for Netflix comedy special Sticks & Stones.
The fact is Dave Chappelle created Chappelle’s Show to be a variety show comprised of sketches and stand-up routines from the comic’s mind and experiences which later became a timeless and iconic masterpiece. The sketches discussed politics, race and celebrity scandals that still ring true today.
All of the talk surrounding Chappelle’s Show has been nostalgic. Many of the old clips have resurfaced, and people are sharing their excitement. It is a bit disheartening that some of these topics are still so relatable today, but important subject matter to say the least. The show has already begun to provide a bit of comic relief in these trying times for our country. Fortunately, fans don’t have to scour the Internet to find old episodes of the show. Now, fans can stream the hit series anytime on Netflix. Until then, take a look at some of the best moments from the show that people have posted on Twitter.
There is a lot to celebrate as Nelly turned 46 years old yesterday Nov. 2. The St. Louis rapper has given us undeniable hits across genres that have climbed the Hip Hop, R&B and Country charts. It is no doubt that he has not missed any checks as he is currently featured on ABC’s Dancing With The Stars and received a major partnership with Budweiser. His personal life seems to be going well as there may be a potential engagement to long time girlfriend Shantel Jackson. Let us take a look at some of his most successful moments through the years to celebrate another year of Nelly.
1. Nelly’s Debut Album Country Grammar Changed His Life
Nelly prepares to release the deluxe version of his debut album Country Grammar in November. He recalls a moment where he was able to retire his mom from their local Rally’s. A gratifying feeling that must have been and the blessings continue to roll in. The album went platinum in 2016.
This historical moment that many children should not have witnessed is that of the iconic “Tip Drill” video. The song recently celebrated 20 years of wild and unadulterated success. This video could only be viewed late nights on BET Uncut, but it was certainly the talk of every fan during those times.
3. Nelly’s Hit Song “Dilemma” Featuring Kelly Rowland
In 2002, Nelly released “Dilemma” featuring Kelly Rowland which sampled Patti Labelle’s “Love, Need and Want You.” This song and video was legendary for a number of reasons. One being that the icon Ms. Patti Labelle was actually in the video as well, and two Kelly Rowland texts Nelly from an excel spreadsheet on her Nokia. The release of this single led to many rumors of the two dating, but both camps denied the rumors to be true.
4. Nelly Takes Over The Country Charts
Me as a kid in the back of the car with the windows down at night while “over and over “ by nelly kept playing on the radio https://t.co/48CnD8xHeE
Nelly made an introduction into Country music with his single “Over and Over” featuring Tim McGraw in 2004, which went platinum selling over a million records. He has continued to collaborate with the Country music community recently releasing a single with country duo Florida Georgia Line entitled “Lil Bit.”
Nelly collaborated with Budweiser for a new limited edition Budweiser tall boy can to celebrate Country Grammar’s anniversary. He also shows his St. Louis pride with an ode to his city on the front of the limited edition can. St. Lunatics all over are celebrating their hometown hero as they go out to purchase in support of Nelly.
Nelly has made quite the fashion statement on ABC’s Dancing With The Stars when he went viral for sporting a the Jordan Cement 3’s with a heel. He has certainly been a huge contender as a winner for this season of Dancing With The Stars as he graces the stage each night with charm and grace. This week’s episode Nelly and his dance partner paid tribute to his late sister who passed of leukemia in 2005.
Fans discuss their favorite Nelly tracks and we quickly realized he has a long discography to choose from. He has continued to uphold his legacy of making classic records that last a lifetime. Nelly is amongst the celebrity population that clearly found the fountain of youth or something, because he does not look 46 years of age. He actually looks as fine as he did with the iconic bandaids on his face.
Cheers to more life for the legendary rapper as he continues to embark on a successful journey ahead. Happy Birthday, Nelly!
Busta Rhymes — Extinction Level Event 2: The Wrath of God
Eight years after Year of the Dragon, venerated veteran Busta Rhymes finally unleashes his newest album, Extinction Level Event 2: The Wrath of God. It arrives more than two decades after the original and long after it was first teased years ago.
Busta brings familiar friends to the party. The 22-song album features familiar faces like Chris Rock, Minister Louis Farrakhan, Mariah Carey, and Mary J. Blige. It also includes Kendrick Lamar, Anderson .Paak, and Rapsody, as well as fellow rap vets Rakim, Q-Tip, Pete Rock, and M.O.P.
It’s been a long time coming, as Busta has been teasing ELE2 for quite some time. In 2014, for example, Rhymes talked about working on the project for four years up until that point. “I want the music to speak for itself,” he told Fuse at the time. “I’m working on a legacy album. This ain’t a hot album. This is a legacy album.”
Listen to Busta Rhymes’ highly-anticipated “legacy” album, Extinction Level Event 2 below.
Common — A Beautiful Revolution
Common begins a new saga. One year after releasing his Let Love LP, the legendary MC returns to the scene with his newest project, A Beautiful Revolution, Pt. 1.
Calling it a labor of love, Common announced the new album with the Black Thought-assisted single, “Say Peace.” “I found my peace…making these albums,” the Chi Town MC rapped on the track. Now, the rest of the project is here, featuring Lenny Kravitz and PJ. Karriem Riggins handles a bulk of the LP’s production with assists from Robert Glasper and Burniss Earl Travis.
“A Beautiful Revolution, Pt. 1 is affirmation,” Common said in a statement to press. “It’s recognition. It’s elevation. It’s music to go with a movement because the truth is, there is still so much work to do. Regardless of the outcome of the election, we need to make sure things do not return to the status quo. The intention of the music is to channel all of our pain and outrage into something productive, inspirational, and good. It’s to help lead a movement into our next phase of the work to be done.”
Listen to that phase on A Beautiful Revolution, Pt. 1 below.
Atmosphere — The Day Before Halloween
As this spooky season comes to a close, the legendary independent hip-hop group Atmosphere bring the frightful holiday in with their newest album, The Day Before Halloween.
One year after Whenever, Slug and Ant bring forth ten new songs, including the previously released single, “Blotter Acid Reflux Syndrome.”
Famed director Jason Goldwatch both directed and edited a movie to go with the album. With Slug listed as an assistant editor, the new film features spliced footage with a vintage flare and a trippy horror vibe.
Slug revealed that the album was inspired by the 1980s during a Twitch conversation with his Felt comrade, Murs. “There’s a feeling to me that is cold, maybe it’s made of metal — not rust but old metal — maybe it has chipping paint on it. It’s the ‘80s to me,” he explained.
Listen to the timely offering The Day Before Halloween below.
Freddie Gibbs, Big Sean & Hit-Boy — “4 Thangs”
It’s been a big year for Freddie Gibbs. Shortly after dropping his Alfredo project with The Alchemist, the Indiana titan teams up with Big Sean and Hit-Boy on “4 Thangs.” The new track comes with an accompanying video full of championship vibes.
For his part, Freddie shouts Big Sean out on the track. “I fuck with Sean Don; he run the D like Barry Sanders,” Gibbs rhymes. Meanwhile, his partner-in-rhyme serves up some breakfast-themed wordplay. “I pray my life go over easy and I never scramble,” he raps before delivering a throwback gem. “She sent a text like ‘Can we talk?’ I’m not Tevin Campbell.”
The new song was produced by one of the year’s hardest working producers Hit-Boy, who recently handled the production on Sean’s Detroit 2, Nas’ King’s Disease, and Benny The Butcher’s Burden of Proof. The “4 Thangs” collaboration between Sean and Gibbs follows their work together on Mike Posner’s “Bring Me Down.”
As for the the visual: the “4 Thangs’” music video was seemingly inspired by the Los Angeles Lakers’ recent championship run. Dressed in purple and gold, the trio of Sean, Freddie, and Hit enjoy a champagne-filled celebration full of trophies, skits, and dancers. Watch the visual below.
Ariana Grande feat. The Weeknd — “off the table”
Two of music’s biggest names join forces as Ariana Grande and The Weeknd team up on “off the table,” an early standout off Grande’s newly-released album, Positions. The R&B-flavored track was produced by Tommy Brown, Shintaro, Travis Sayles, and Mr. Franks.
Over that production, Ariana Grande ponders a potential lover on the hook. “Just wanna know, is love completely off the table?” she sings as Abel Tesfaye joins in with his own thoughts on love. “I’ll wait for you even though it always feels like I’ll be number two to someone you can’t hold anymore,” he laments.
The Weeknd is one of three guests on Grande’s new LP, which is out now. The other featured acts are Ty Dolla $ign, who appears on “safety net” and Doja Cat, who lends her raps to “motive.” The project also includes the celebrated title track, which also worked as the project’s lead single.
Stream the entire LP, including “off the table,” “safety net,” and “motive” below.
Omarion connects once again with The Kinection. Six years after his Sex Playlist project, the seasoned R&B singer drops off his latest offering in the form of a 12-track LP.
O tapped a few friends for this effort including Ghostface Killah on “I Ain’t Even Done.” Elsewhere, Wale shows up on “Mutual,” T-Pain pops up on “Can You Hear Me,” and Busy Signal appears on “Goddess.”
The “Ice Box” crooner says this album is also the soundtrack to a 5-part documentary that’s set to arrive soon. The upcoming doc is slated to focus on O’s 2019 “Millennium Tour” experience. “You’ll see how the planets aligned for me,” Omarion wrote in a statement to press. This is perhaps most evident on the song “B2K Experience.”
Elsewhere on social media, O added: “So much went into this body of work and now it’s finally yours.” Stream The Kinection below.
The Greek-born basketball player became an MVP for the first time this year despite getting kicked out of the eastern conference semifinals by the Miami Heat who were eventually defeated by the Los Angeles Lakers in the Finals. But now, with the season past him and with some free time before the season starts up again in December, he’s getting into Hollywood.
No, he won’t actually star in a movie, but Disney is currently developing a biopic about the basketball player’s life as well as his brother Thanasis. He took to Twitter to make the announcement and put out a casting call for people who look like him and his brother.
The live-action film will aptly be called Greek Freak, and his life story is pretty amazing. He was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks with the 15th pick in the 2013 NBA Draft, and though he was a lanky wide-eyed kid, he’s since grown into his frame and has become a defensive monster. But before he even stepped foot in the United States, his life back in his native Greece proved to be just as formative. His parents left Nigeria for a better life in Greece, which led to Giannis and his brothers making money by selling sunglasses, hats, and bags on the street.
While in the NBA Bubble, he commented that while being stuck on the Disney campus is tough, it’s still better than his past– despite so many other players complaining.
“I’m in a situation where I’m extremely blessed and I cannot complain,” Antetokounmpo said. “Obviously, it does not matter where you are in life, there is always something to complain about, there is always a problem and an issue. But I try to kind of not focus on that.”
Greek Freak will be directed by Nigerian filmmaker and writer Akin Omotoso but there’s no word when the film will release to the public or Disney+.
Last July, he released his long awaited debut album The Big Day, after rising to the top of the rap game over the past five years. Fans were overjoyed when he first announced the album but quickly went sour when it finally dropped– and that’s partially because of the build-up.
At the time he spoke to Zane Lowe about why he formally released an official full-length studio album instead of just another mixtape.
“I think this was just the time,” the Chicago rapper explained. “I would write a completely different Coloring Book right now if I could. It would have a lot more information on it. And the same thing for Acid Rap. I know a lot more about everything than I knew when I was 19 or 20 or 23. Like just music is everywhere. So now, it’s like literally just in the air. Like I wanted to give people something that they could have, that they could move around with, that they could take with them for the rest of their lives.”
On August 4, 2019, The Big Day debuted at number two on the US Billboard 200 with 108,000 albums sold. It was Chance’s highest-charting entry and his third release to hit the top 10, but fans were left feeling unsatisfied. They immediately championed his other works and felt like the album was a stark contrast. Now, more than a year later, Chance posted a picture of the album cover on Twitter, asking fans what their favorite song was on The Big Album. Since people hated on the album so much when it dropped, the responses were as scathing and hilarious as you think.
Benny The Butcher feat. Lil Wayne & Big Sean — “Timeless”
Benny The Butcher clocks in with Hit-Boy, Lil Wayne, and Big Sean on the Buffalo MC’s newest single, “Timeless.”
Over Hit’s production, Benny kicks the song off with a thesis. “I do this for suffering children and checks from government buildings,” he raps. “A dope boy who made a check from other than dealing / What a good feeling when they know you one in a million.”
Weezy goes second with a similar theme. “I do this for my young,” he rhymes. “More precious than the moon is to the sun.” Then Sean Don cleans up with the third verse: “I do this for the ones that’s barely surviving / Watching me, living me through me, so I gotta stay thriving.”
Hit-Boy says the beat for “Timeless” has been in his possession since JAY-Z and Kanye West’s Watch the Throne studio sessions. “The beat…was made in 2011 at the Mercer hotel for [JAY-Z and Kanye West’s Watch The Throne],” he wrote on social media. “It wasn’t picked. I was actually hot I made a beat this good and they picked something like [‘Ni**as in Paris’] which was one of my more simple beats. That was a blessing in disguise.”
The Butcher was excited to let fans know he had new material coming. “I haven’t dropped a solo project since June 21st 2019 and I feel like my shit been the Most Anticipated Album of the year,” Benny told fans on social media. “I kno the streets need this one.”
Listen to “Timeless” below.
Travis Scott feat. Future, Young Thug, M.I.A. — “Franchise Remix”
After breaking into the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 with his new song “Franchise,” Travis Scott teams up with Future for the chart-topper’s remix.
“Watch so frozen, don’t know what time it is,” Future boasts on the track. He also drops some timely NBA bars while flexing. “Balling like the Lakers, won a championship,” he adds over the beat which was produced by Teddy Walton, Chase B, and Travis Scott himself.
The original “Franchise” featured Young Thug and M.I.A. Both artists are still listed as guests on the remix. Thugger appears on the new version while M.I.A.’s verse is mostly removed.
Inspired by “White Tee” by Dem Franchise Boyz, “Franchise” is expected to continue its chart prominence. Listen to “Franchise (Remix)” below.
REASON — New Beginnings
It’s a new start for REASON. The Los Angeles MC drops his official debut album through Top Dawg Entertainment in the form of New Beginnings, a 14-song offering.
The project features fellow TDE spitters ScHoolboy Q, Ab-Soul, and Isaiah Rashad. It also includes features from Rapsody, Vince Staples, JID, and Mereba to go along with production from Kal Banx, Mike & Keys, Taebeast, and more.
The Del Amo MC recently celebrated his TDE debut by thanking the artists who joined him on the project. “I want to give a HUGE thank you to everyone involved in making this project with me,” REASON said on social media. “For this to be my debut it was a very special and emotional process so thank you to y’all forreal!”
Stream Reason’s New Beginnings below.
Various Artists — REPRISE: A Roc Nation Album
Roc Nation has enlisted a star-studded squad for a new compilation project with a message titled REPRISE: A Roc Nation Album.
The project focuses on social justice and features singers like Jorja Smith, Ty Dolla $ign, and Ant Clemons, along with well-regarded emcees like Rapsody, D Smoke, Vic Mensa, and Buddy.
“It’s near and dear to my heart,” Rap told Yahoo Life recently. “As someone who’s been given the opportunity and blessing to have a microphone and a platform to speak on these issues, you do what’s organic and feels good to you and what we need to do.”
“It’s another creative way to touch people’s souls and bring people together as one,” she added “Music is one voice. You don’t have to speak the same language for someone to feel you…When we talk about hip-hop and Black music, that stuff comes from the soul first and that’s the best way you can connect with people is through the soul.”
A portion of the proceeds will reportedly go to several organizations, including Gathering for Justice, Until Freedom, Equal Justice Initiative, Grassroots Law Project, and NACDL Foundation for Criminal Justice (NFCJ) Law Enforcement Accountability Database Project, according to the aforementioned Yahoo Life story.
Stream REPRISE below.
Trey Songz — Back Home
Trey Songz is back with another album. Three years after dropping Tremaine The Album, Trigga returns with his latest offering, Back Home.
This time around, Trey delivers 22 songs, including collaborations with Summer Walker, Ty Dolla $ign, Swae Lee, and Davido.
Songz recently spoke about the significance behind the album’s title. “I wanna make the kind of R&B that inspired me to sing. The songs that make you love, the ones that make cry and the ones that make you smile, laugh and dance,” he said, according to Revolt.
“Music is the soundtrack that plays while we live our lives, and I wanna be there for my fans while they are living through this truly special time that we’ll never forget,” he added. “I say I’m Back Home because the music feels that way. I hope you feel the same.”
Singing in a youth church choir and studying music at a performing arts school was just a small stepping stone in the direction that would be a fast-track to fame and fashion trendsetter for Tiana Major9. Her love for jazz music was a key influence in her childhood upbringing to the point where the Newham R&B songstress dubbed her pseudonym after one of her favorite sounds – the major 9th.
If she’s not already, Tiana Major9 is a name that needs to be on your radar for upcoming musicians to be on the lookout for. You may claim that you haven’t heard of her, but her sultry soulful British pipes are sure to sound familiar if you’ve seen Lena Waithe’s Queen & Slim. That’s right – if you’ve seen the film, you’ll recognize her voice from her successful single collaboration “Collide” featuring EarthGang, which has amassed over 32 million combined global streams to date.
Source: Ira Chernova / Ira Chernova
HelloBeautiful caught up with the East London-bred songstress about her new EP At Sixes and Sevens, her personal style evolution since signing to Motown Records and how she practices self-love with the help of crystals and meditation. Check it out below!
On her personal style:
“My style is my ID. It’s a visual representation of who I am as a person. At the same time, when people look at me, they never guess that I make the style of music I do. I’d say it draws people in, making them want to listen to my songs.”
On the influence of R&B music and her style evolution since signing to Motown Records:
“I’ve started experimenting a lot more with my hair – whether it’s colour, texture or length. During quarantine, I’ve tried wigs, braided Bantu knots, Bob braids and many styles with my natural hair. Changing my hair up is fun to me!”
On her reflection as her growth as an artist:
“I feel I’ve grown as an artist by tapping into my personal life and putting it on display for the world to see. I’ve touched on and mentioned things that I’ve experienced, but never to this extent. This freedom of expression only comes with maturity. What I wear and what I say is a reflection of that freedom. I’m finally free to be me.”
On British fashion versus American fashion:
Source: Ira Chernova / Ira Chernova
“I wouldn’t say there’s much difference between American and British fashion. We’re just more swaggy (laughs). The internet and social media has allowed brands to become more accessible. I think there are a lot of similarities in our styles than differences, take sportswear for example. Trainers (sneakers) have now become universal.”
On her signature fashion items:
“I need to have either a colourful eyeliner or something glittery on my eye! I love having fun with my makeup, it’s another way for me to express my playful side.”
On maintaining self-care and practicing self-love:
“I’ve fallen off with my self-care practices, but I make sure to shower, cook and bake, eat clean, call loved ones and watch funny videos to help lighten my mood.”
On discovering the power of crystals and mediation:
“I’m still learning about crystals but I know that they make me feel better about situations… like writing for instance. I was wearing a rose quartz around my neck most of the time I was writing my EP. I feel like I channelled it’s love energy and it helped me write ‘Exclusively’.”
On At Sixes and Sevens as a reflection of self-awareness:
“I’ve learned to process my thoughts and feelings by self reflecting. All the songs on my EP represent an honest, specific time in my love life. My affirmations tie the whole project together as it was literally a way for me to get through life.”
Listen to Tiana Major9’s latest At Sixes & Sevens EP here and watch her latest visuals for “Think About You” (Notion Mix) now available to watch on YouTube.
It’s been a little over a month, and the world is still reeling from the death of Chadwick Boseman.
The actor died of colon cancer complications but decided to keep his diagnosis to himself after finding out in 2016. One of his last times gracing the screen was in Spike Lee‘s Netflix film Da 5 Bloods as Stormin’ Norman. Even though Lee didn’t know Boseman was sick, he understands why he decided to keep it a secret while filming.
The legendary director recently spoke to Variety about Boseman and remembers just how intense some filming days were given the humid weather and terrible air pollution that the crew was subject to inhaling — both things that would affect anyone and even more so Boseman, given his personal battle.
“He did not look well, but my mind never took that he had cancer,” Lee explained. “It was a very strenuous shoot. I mean, we all didn’t get to Vietnam until the end of the movie at Ho Chi Minh City. But that other stuff, the jungle stuff, was shot in Thailand. It was 100 degrees every day. It was also at that time the worst air pollution in the world. I understand why Chadwick didn’t tell me because he didn’t want me to take it easy. If I had known, I wouldn’t have made him do the stuff. And I respect him for that.”
Like most other people around the world, Lee was stunned to learn about his passing.
“I went to open my phone, and my phone—the whole thing had been blowing up,” he said. “I turned it off. I was in shock.”
The last film Chadwick Boseman ever starred in is Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, which is set to be released on Netflix this December as fans look forward to seeing the actor in a new film for the very final time.
, PC and Stadia.
