Author: Antoinette Ford

A southern charmer from Georgia who loves hip hop culture and the change it brings to the world. I want to capture what lies beneath the surface of every action and lyric and express it through the eyes of the originator.

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Jay-Z Invests $19 Million Into Cannabis POS Platform Flowhub

Shawn Carter, best known as Jay-Z, is investing a shocking $19 Million into his cannabis ventures. He has partnered with Flowhub, a cannabis retail point-of-sale(POS) platform for marijuana dispensaries. The financing was led by venture firms Headline and Poseidon.

Shawn “business, man” Carter

Kyle Sherman founded Flowhub in 2015 and is more than honored to partner with him. In a sit-down with Forbes, he shares his excitement about working with the mogul.

“When Jay says, ‘I’m not a businessman, I’m a business, man,’ it’s true,” says Sherman. “He’s got incredible business acumen—he really knows how to surround himself with brilliant people and build great companies,” he continued.

Jay-Z famously rapped this line on the remix to Diamonds From Sierra Leone in 2005. Mr. Carter has embodied this, and for this reason, we know the multimillion-dollar investment was strategic.

In 2019, Jay-Z launched his cannabis company, Monogram, to support a new chapter in cannabis.

“MONOGRAM MARKS A NEW CHAPTER IN CANNABIS DEFINED BY DIGNITY, CARE AND CONSISTENCY. IT IS A COLLECTIVE EFFORT TO BRING YOU THE BEST, AND A HUMBLE PURSUIT TO DISCOVER WHAT THE BEST TRULY MEANS.”

Specifically, Carter launched the Social Equity Ventures fund to provide up to $1 million for minority-owned cannabis startups. His overall goal was to boost Black participation in the predominantly white cannabis industry. His efforts are fueled by the vast impact the war on drugs has had on the black community.

Regarding his billion-dollar net worth, Forbes reveals that roughly USD 425 million of Jay-Z’s fortune comes from cash investments and stakes.

Why did Jay-Z partner with Flowhub?

Launched in June 2021, Flowhub’s social equity program invests in those adversely impacted by the War on Drugs. To emphasize the strategic partnership, the additional funding from Carter will accelerate expansion into emerging markets. Subsequently, it will aid in further development of product lines and grow its social equity program.

The program will provide eligible social equity business owners with Flowhub’s POS software at a discounted rate. To date, Flowhub has awarded over $1 million worth of software products to eligible cannabis entrepreneurs via this program.

All things considered, these powerful companies join together effortlessly. With a common goal to deter the war on drugs, Carter has shown again why he is The Business Man.

Follow us for more on Jay-Z and Roc Nation as they continue to push for global change on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Written by Antoinette Ford

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Kanye West Loses $60 Million Home To Kim Kardashian

It appears the divorce is still on for Kanye West and Kim Kardashian-West.  There have been speculations of the two possible reconciling after an impromptu wedding and several public sightings together.

The two battled for the $60 million dollar home they shared in Hidden Hills of Southern California. The Los Angeles County Court documents show that Kardashian is listed as the primary owner of the home.

The Hidden Hills Mansion

The couple purchased the former home of Lisa Marie Presley in the gated community of Hidden Hills for $20 million.  They then renovated the home completely. The cost of the Kanye-driven renovation was a reported additional $20 million! Observers of the home post-renovation use names like “nightmare house” and “haunted museum.”

Inside Kim Kardashian and Kanye West's 'horrifying' mansion
Inside Kim Kardashian and Kanye West’s $60 Million Hidden Hills mansion.by Architectural Digest.

“It be your own kids”

Critics aren’t the only ones who seem to have a visual disinterest in the home’s minimal nature.  North West, daughter to the famed parents is less than thrilled to reside in the home.  Ellen DeGeneres asked Kardashian the meanest thing her child has said to her. She replied, “Whenever I have a disagreement with my daughter North, she believes it’s a dig at me and says things like, ‘Your house is so terrible, it’s all white!’ Who lives in such a way?’ She simply believes it affects me, which is cruel considering I enjoy my home.”

Despite North’s claims, Kanye and Kim designed the home to promote a pure and peaceful environment.  Architectural Digest published an article upon completion of the massive renovation. They insisted that their home is very kid-friendly.  Kanye shared, “The kids ride their scooters down the hallways and jump around on top of the low Axel tables, which they use as a kind of stage. This house may be a case study, but our vision for it was built around our family.”

Kanye’s estate

Kanye has been making moves throughout the dissolution of his 7-year marriage.  It was reported days ago that he was selling his home in Wyoming. The rapper may be emotionally tied to the home he designed and shared with his family. There also stands the possibility that he may have had on his “petty boots” when fighting for the home. In hindsight, fans are glad the West children may reside in the home they’ve known since birth.

Facebook: Antoinette Ford Instagram: missford2u_

 

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Hitman Holla’s Girlfriend Thanks “God’s Angel” After Being Shot

Cinnamon, the girlfriend of Hitman Holla (Wild ‘N Out) is expected to recover following injuries sustained after she was the victim of a home invasion. 

Hitman Holla's girlfriend Cinnamon is expected to recover following shooting
Hitman Holla and girlfriend Cinnamon shared this cozy photo via Instagram @cinncinncinny

Yesterday, Hitman Holla shared via Instagram that while he was away, 4 men entered his home with the intent of robbing the battle rapper. Cinnamon, who was home at the time, called him with the news of intruders entering the house.  After being prompted by Hitman, she engaged in gunfire with the intruders.  Unfortunately, Cinnamon was shot in the face while defending herself. 

Prayers are Answered

On the bright side, the couple have been on the receiving end of prayers and kind words from fans and anyone touched by their story. Thankfully, Cinnamon shared a promising message to social media yesterday evening. She wrote, via Instagram:

“Honestly i really don’t know what to say, but to give thanks to the man above! Thank you Jesus, thank you Jesus!!!” she wrote. “He really had his Angels watching over me [pleading face emoji] & i also truly believe Binny Jr is one of Gods Angel. Binny saved me life [broken heart emoji].”

Binny is the couple’s beloved dog.

Cinnamon thanked the public for their prayers and kind words. “I never knew I was this strong until now!” she continued. “I’ve never been so afraid in my life man, but i was covered by the blood of Jesus! I love yal so much!”

FMHipHop continues to send prayers and positive thoughts to Hitman Holla and Cinnamon at this time. 

Celebrities and the History of Home Invasions

Celebrities remain a consistent target for home invaders, as they are known to possess money and flashy things. Rihanna, Christina Milian, and Chris Brown are only a few celebs who have been victims of crazed fans, stalkers and thieves alike.  Unfortunately, some celebs do not live to see their intruders brought to justice.  Late rapper Pop Smoke was shot and killed at his Hollywood Hills residence by intruders the night of a performance.  It was speculated that a post to social media revealing high-end gifts and significantly, his address, led the assailants to his home.

Celebrities forfeit normalcy when they gain recognition on a larger scale.  With social media as an easy space to flaunt the finer things, we hope celebrities take on proper precautions when it comes to the security of their homes and families.

To keep up with all the latest hip-hop and celebrity news, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Written by Antoinette Ford

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Damon Wayans Calls Dave Chappelle Comedic “Unicorn”

Damon Wayans is calling fellow comedian Dave Chappelle a “unicorn” in the comedic arena.  Dave Chapelle has caused a major wave of emotion amongst social groups throughout his career.  His latest victims being the transgender community.

From one freedom fighter to another

Wayans says Chappelle is also a freedom fighter. “I feel like Dave freed the slaves. Yeah, the comedians,” a masked Wayans, 61, told TMZ. “We were slaves to PC culture and he just, you know — as an artist he’s Van Gogh. He cut his ear off. He’s trying to tell us it’s okay.”

Damon Wayans has seen his share of comedians being cancelled due to controversial commentary. Wayans is indeed a seasoned comedian. Notably his run on the hit 90″s show, In Living Color, became a show of “firsts” for African-Americans in comedy.  Similar to Chapelle, Wayans, along with others from his famed family, walked off their show at its most popular time.

The reason, a new team of “consultants” whose focus was to culturally appropriate the show in hopes to steer in a new audience. His brother Keenan Wayans spearheaded their exit from the popular show saying, “”What I did was just stand up,” he says. ”I told those people that what they were doing was wrong.”

Backing Dave

Netflix has backed Chapelle’s, “The Closer” in the midst of its controversial stance. The company on Monday suspended three employees who crashed an executive meeting.  Netflix worker, Terra Field fired off a series of tweets addressing Chapelle’s comments during his final installment with Netflix. Netflix has expressed that although Field expressed openly her stance on the show, she was not suspended due to this, but other reasons.

Being trans is actually pretty funny, if you’re someone who actually knows about the subject matter. How could volunteering for a second puberty *not* be funny? That isn’t what he is doing though. Our existence is ‘funny’ to him – and when we object to his harm, we’re “offended”.

Netflix has expressed that although Field expressed openly her stance on the show, she was not suspended due to this, but other reasons.

What he does wanna talk about is a phenomenon he perceives — that one is NOT truly free in the U.S. anymore on the issue of speech, and he sees that as the real issue we need to dissect.

Chappelle has made it clear he will not prostitute his gift becoming the epitome of “stand for something or fall for anything.”

Written by Antoinette Ford

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Chris Brown Will Not Face Battery Charges In “Wig Flying” Case

ATLANTA, GA - JUNE 08: Singer Chris Brown performs at 2019 Tycoon Music Festival at Cellairis Amphitheatre at Lakewood on June 8, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia.(Photo by Prince Williams/Wireimage)

Chris Brown will not face any criminal charges for his latest battery allegations.  In June of this year,  Brown was accused of hitting a woman so hard, her “wig flew off.” Law enforcement sources said at the time, the alleged victim had no visible injuries. However, her weave was “dislodged”. The incident followed an argument between the two at his home in San Fernando Valley. He immediately denied the allegation.

It has been reported that the Los Angeles City Attorney’s office rejected the misdemeanor case “this week,” a spokesman for the office confirms.

“It was rejected because of insufficient evidence,” spokesman Rob Wilcox tells Rolling Stone. He declined to elaborate.

Chris Brown’s road to redemption

For the past decade, Brown has accumulated charges of violent nature. His road to redemption seems to remain a gateway for troubles to enter.  In May, Brown shared a post to Instagram:

“I wanna be remembered for my kindness, for showing up, for giving second chances, for acknowledging my own toxic traits, and for loving selflessly. If that ain’t it then I failed horribly. remember to extend grace because we’re all just walking each other home.”

His claims to acknowledge toxic traits were questioned.  Brown’s cry for grace seem genuine, yet in June, the allegations of the “weave flying” incident broke news.

History repeats itself

Following the Grammys(2009), he assaulted his then-girlfriend Rihanna.  Brown was charged with felony assault. Due to the charge, he was sentenced to five years probation,, community service, and anger management.

In 2017, ex-girlfriend Karrueche Tran claimed he punched her in the stomach twice and pushed her downstairs.  She filed a restraining order against him. Tran also gave evidence of Brown threatening her and following her on several occasions.

In 2019 a 24-year-old woman claimed that he assaulted her in a hotel suite. They met at a club and proceeded to Mandarin Oriental Hotel, where she claims that he raped her. Despite being detained, he was released. The investigation remains ongoing.

Support for the singer

All in all, Brown continues to drop hit after hit with namely the biggest artists in the game. Whether the “No Guidance” singer is making headlines for charges of assault, rape, or just pure misconduct: fans are there in support.

Ultimately, his singing talent is undeniable; his dance moves unmatched. For the most part, the singers fall from grace has been a hard to watch horror film.  As a result, opposing fans hold him accountable.

“Y’all not actually surprised Chris Brown, the abuser, is abusing, right?” one user asked.

Although he is an easy target for these allegations, he may have some cleaning up to do.

See more on his copyright infringement case here.

Written by Antoinette Ford

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Kid Cudi Calls Out Pitchfork, Says His Debut Album “Changed Hip Hop”

Kid Cudi’s name could easily reside among the great modern hip-hop artists. Thanks to his relatable lyrics, immersive sound and honesty about mental health struggles, Cudi inspired a wave of emo-rappers.  He’s stood the test of time in a turbulent musical era by staying grounded in himself.  His evolving style has come with backlash, but we can’t deny the weight of his contributions to hip-hop.

A new conversation on Cudi’s body of work comes as the result of Pitchfork’s recently published list of albums they decided deserved re-scoring. Cudi fans questioned why The Man On The Moon: The End of the Day was not one of them. The monumental 2009 album, which featured classics like “Day ‘N’ Nite” and “Pursuit of Happiness (Nightmare),” received a dismal 4.1/10 from Pitchfork upon its release. But when a fan expressed frustration on Twitter over no new score, Cudi assured them he’s not bothered.

“Pitchfork has never givin me good ratings, and here we are, years later and I’m still here. Its ok man. They don’t need to change it,” Cudi wrote in response to a fan’s tweet criticizing the album’s score. “The entire world knows, even my haters, that this album was the one that changed hip hop forever.”

Kid Cudi: Influencing The Culture

Today’s most influential actors and artists take note of Cudi, making his name ring in the ears of the next generation. No matter the style of rap, he has penetrated the hearts and minds of those who’ve encountered his music. “He broke the barrier for weird people like me,” ScHoolboy Q said. 

Journey to the Moon Again

Cudi’s latest album, Man on the Moon III: The Chosen dropped in December of last year. Pitchfork again gave him a not-so-savory review, with critic Alphonse Pierre writing “even though Cudi’s heart is in the right place, Man on the Moon III is still like when the old rock band reunites and their costumes don’t fit anymore.”Although the third installment of the Man on the Moon trilogy did not see the numbers of his previous albums, at this point in his career, Cudi seems content with what he has accomplished. In response to another fan, he tweeted:

Cudi’s positivity, just like his lyrical honesty about his depression, has been an asset. He remains a force on Billboard charts, with  single ‘The Scotts,” a collaboration with Travis Scott, solidifying a  No. 1 spot in 2020. And Jay-Z recently teased another collaboration with Cudi for new Netflix series “The Harder They Fall.” Regardless of what Pitchfork thinks, Cudi has the great minds of the industry on his side. Like a true artist, he is using his music to affect the lives of fans, all while staying true to himself.

Written by Antoinette Ford

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BET Brings Back Rap City As A Commitment To The Culture

BET honored their commitment to the hip-hop culture last night by bringing “Rap City” back as a 2021 BET Hip Hop Awards pre-show premiere; “Rap City ’21.”

Hosted by the legendary Big Tigger, the show was a special edition of the original program just for the BET’s stage. This one-hour premiere recreated the original platform and offered never-before-seen booth appearances. The show also aired exclusive interviews and Rap City memories. All things considered, this was just what the culture needed to create a nostalgic moment for hip-hop fans everywhere. Furthermore, the premiere gave new rappers a chance to show their rap skills.

The history of Rap City (1989-2008)

Rap City made its debut in 1989 as a hip-hop series dedicated to rap music.  The show presented rap videos, important cultural commentary, and interviews with highlighted stars. Alongside original freestyles from the hottest artists, the show amplified the hip-hop culture. With Big Tigger as its lead host, the show remained steadfast despite the rap game’s evolution. The show welcomed the artists in the purest form which gave its viewers a thirst for more.  For this reason, Rap City outlasted Yo! MTV Raps, its rival at the time.

The show birthed some of the greatest moments in hip hop history. It became home to an iconic Big Daddy Kane interview, and also the last interview of late hip-hop legend the Notorious B.I.G.

Stephen Hill, Vice President of Programming (1999-) shared with Rolling Stone,

“Professionally, I came on board spring of ’99. At the time, Rap City had three hosts. We made the decision to keep one host and Tigger was the choice: funny, vibrant, great on air, really about the music.”

In essence, BET gave hip-hop a nostalgic boost with Rap City ’21.  There is no word whether the iconic rap show will return for good, but the culture awakened to the idea.

Written by Antoinette Ford

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BET Hip Hop Awards 2021: Red Carpet Slay or Nay?

Nick Cannon

The B.E.T Hip Hop Awards have officially aired and the red carpet looks were show-stopping. However, the looks hit or missed the fashion mark. Here’s how some of your favorite celebrities stepped out in celebration of this historical night in hip-hop. We want to know–did they slay, or nay?

BET Hip Hop Awards 2021 red carpet looks

Remy Ma displayed flawless skin in this sexy red cutout dress by D Anthony Designs.

Nick Cannon Sports Mismatched Crocs, White Fur On Red Carpet At Hip Hop Awards | Celebrities | BET

Nick Cannon is known for his “dapper” looks.  Surprisingly, he channeled his wild side. by stepping out in mismatched crocs, socks, and everything else.

BIA makes an impression on the red carpet of the BET Hip Hop Awards in Atlanta | Daily Mail Online

BIA accentuated her long legs with these square-toed, over-the-knee Zebra print boots: paired with a matching trench coat. All by Bottega Veneta. A black bodysuit gave shine to her bling.

BET Hip Hop Awards '21 With Fat Joe, Tyler The Creator, Nelly, Remy Ma, And Others

Tyler the Creator was a big winner for the evening.

The rapper kept it “Tyler” by creating a 1950’s style ensemble with a multi-colored briefcase. 

Photos from BET Hip Hop Awards 2021: Red Carpet Fashion - E! Online

Big Latto gave us “Big Energy” with this 2-piece cropped jacket and skirt.  The look was complete with black open-toe stilettos.

DJ Envy - DJ Envy Photos - Zimbio

DJ Envy hosted the red carpet and kept it all the way smooth sporting a metal grey printed jacket.  Particularly, his jewelry game was on lock.

Hot Dayum!: See The Sexiest Looks Spotted On The 2021 BET Hip Hop Awards Red Carpet! | BET

Erica Banks wore a dress by Jocmonocc. This leather, feathered corset was very fitting for the artist. She completed this look with a sleek studded pair of kitten heels.

BET Hip Hop Awards 2021 red carpet

Nelly was seen rocking this two-piece jacket and shorts look by Suga J. His simple but effective look was a crowd-pleaser.

Photos from BET Hip Hop Awards 2021: Red Carpet Fashion - E! Online

Dream Doll gave a very fashion-forward moment on the carper. The rapper rocked this printed dress with accentuated hips by AREA. This sharp look is complete with a point-toe Christian Louboutin bootie.

 

The B.E.T Hip Hop Awards show took us to hip hop heaven and back! Check out the highlights of the night and let us know your thoughts on this star-studded show.

Written by Antoinette Ford.

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BET’s Hip Hop Awards 2021: Honorees Nelly and Tyler the Creator

The BET Hip Hop Awards is underway, and fans are raving about its winners. The “I Am Hip Hop Award” and “Rock the Bells Cultural Influence Award” are huge awards for the night. These prestigious awards honor those who have influenced the hip-hop momentum. The honorees are:

Nelly

“I Am Hip Hop Award”

Music and Entertainment Icon - Nelly- Named the “I Am Hip Hop” Award Recipient for the 2021 “BET Hip Hop Awards” | News | enidnews.com

Why Nelly is Hip Hop?

Nelly raised the bar in entertainment after stepping onto the scene in 2000. With his country grammar and very distinct vocals, he changed how we would enjoy rap in hip hop. His debut album, Country Grammar(2000), has sold over 10 million copies to date. In 2021, Nelly celebrated 20 years of “Nellyville” and “Country Grammar.”

Ground-breaking hits such as “Hot in Here,” “Country Grammar,” “Ride Wit Me,” and “Just a Dream,” His collaboration with Florida Georgia Line, “Cruise” reached diamond status. His hit song with Kelly Rowland, “Dilemma,” marked 1 billion views on YouTube! His music has also earned him 3 Grammy awards.

“He is 100 percent hip hop and he deserves every award he can possible get.”

Beyond the music

In 2005, Nelly made his big-screen debut in “The Longest Yard.” alongside Adam Sandler and Chris Rock. Returning to the big screen, he starred in “Reach Me” with Sylvester Stallone in 2014.

BET’s hit show “Real Husbands of Hollywood.” cast the rapper as a regular. His time on “Dancing with the Stars” in 2020 showed America that their country gem had more in the bag. Although he finished in third place, his fans were pleased. His time as a sports commentator with Fox Sports made him one of few actors with three shows airing at one time. Nelly has performed on NBC’s The Voice, The American Music Awards, and ABC’s Greatest Hits. He also served as a judge on CW’s “The Next.”

We can’t forget his women’s clothing line, Apple Bottoms. He is part-owner of the Charlotte Bobcats alongside Michael Jordan. The RIAA ranks Nelly as the fourth-best-selling rap artist in American music history, with over 35 million albums sold in the United States.

Taking hip hop to country

Twenty years later, Nelly is still making headlines as his country music album “Heartland” reaches Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart. Subsequently, his single featuring Florida Georgia Line, “Lil Bit,” nears double-platinum status. As a diamond-selling, multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning rap superstar, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and actor, Nelly has cemented his place in Hip Hop history.

Tyler the Creator

“Rock The Bells Cultural Influence Award”

Five Finger Death Punch: 5 Things to Know About the Metal Band | Billboard | Billboard

LL Cool J is the founder and CEO of Rock the Bells, the voice for classic and timeless hip hop.

“I am proud to honor Tyler The Creator, with the first-ever Rock The Bells cultural influence award, which celebrates an artist who continues to break down the conventional boundaries of hip hop culture,” LL Cool J said in a statement.

Hip hop’s “weird boy” proves why he’s still in the game after 15 years. Tyler, the Creator, is an award-winning artist, producer, director, fashion designer, filmmaker, and entrepreneur. He became the co-founder of the hip-hop group and record label Odd Future in 2007. To date, Tyler has released six solo albums. His album IGOR won the rapper a Grammy in 2020. He went on to win a BRIT Award: following the artist being banned just 5 years prior. His album, Call Me If You Get Lost, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 in 2021

Consequentially, the record won the 2021 BET Awards. Call Me If You Get Lost has successfully become the best album of the year.

Tyler continues to push beyond the constraints of hip-hop culture. He stays true to himself, which in turn brings him the respect and recognition he deserves. When asked about his creative process, he shared with BET, “I just make what I like and try to make it the best.”

Written by Antoinette Ford

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Jack Harlow Keeps Hometown Promise and Continues Giving Back

Jack Harlow

Jack Harlow has kept his promise to give back to his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. To demonstrate, Harlow announced plans to donate to five local organizations. These organizations are support systems for victims of rape and domestic violence, an all-girls school, and economic development for underserved urban communities.

(AMPED, Center for Women and Families, Grace M. James Academy of Excellence, Louisville Urban League and Metro United Way)

Motivation to give

Harlow definitely makes it known that Louisville is his foundation. “It’s part of my DNA. People joke about how often I reference my home, but it’s a huge part of my identity,” he said. Overall, he summarizes,

“My career feels like a mission that’s bigger than me.”

Harlow told PEOPLE magazine that he takes counsel from his mom. Her giving nature ultimately led to him taking on the task of giving back. In addition to this, the rapper makes connections daily and utilizes pivotal moments to showcase his humanitarian nature.

The Louisville rappers humanitarian past

Harlow previously donated $500,000 to Kentucky State University and Simmons College of Kentucky. Both institutions are historically Black universities.  KSU President, M. Christopher Brown II, says “…the school is thrilled to have been selected.”

With this in mind, Harlow wants to meet more people as it grounds his efforts in giving. Indeed, Harlow is mindful of his position in the culture and how to contribute to it without being the topic of criticism.

He continues his efforts and pushes past being just a “white rapper”.  In hindsight, there are bigger issues to combat. At the same time, he is providing solutions instead of problems. Harlow was involved when protests broke out for Breonna Taylor’s murder, as it took place in his hometown. 

Harlow says, “You know, not everyone likes where they grow up, or associate it positively. I had a positive experience in Louis.” Vogue(2020)

Harlow set out on the” Crème de la Crème Tour “ which is sold out. The tour set to wrap up Nov. 19.  The rapper is indeed humble and blesses others while climbing the ladder to success.