Tag: busta rhymes

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Busta Rhymes Honors the Art and Inspires the Next Generation

Busta Rhymes
Image Source: Jerritt Clark/Getty Images

When Busta Rhymes accepted the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, he offered more than gratitude—he delivered wisdom earned through decades in the hip-hop industry. His insights, freely given and hard-won, remind us why we pause when legends speak.

No one understands or knows the ins and outs of the business like someone who’s trod the path. At the recent Video Music Awards, Busta Rhymes received great honor. The “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See” artist spoke to CBS News regarding the win and was not shy about an honor well-earned. In his words,

“Thirty-five years of professional recording is a long earning of my right of passage. I’m just glad they decided it’s time for me.”

A Life in Testament

Thirty-five years of dedication to the industry stand as a testament few can match. Even more remarkable is persevering through decades without the public accolades such commitment deserves. Yet Rhymes has consistently emphasized that this absence never diminished the genuine connection he’s maintained with fans and peers alike. Only now is he witnessing the full recognition of his contributions from the music community at large.

As Rhymes shared with Billboard,

“It’s incredible… you know, I’ve never not felt the love, but it’s definitely evolved into new heights. It’s a whole other thing to be getting it from your community and your folks and even more so in the abundance that it’s been happening in.”

 Busta Rhymes’ Message of Passion and Purpose 

This recognition illuminates what such an honor means at this stage of his storied career—far beyond mere validation of his efforts. It represents the wisdom that Rhymes deliberately passes down to the next generation of artists, finding their way. Speaking with unmistakable conviction to Billboard, Rhymes addressed younger performers directly:

“The most important thing is to really understand the difference between doing this because you love it and doing it because you just trying to get a bag.”

At its core, he emphasizes passion as the essential ingredient. This willingness to invest yourself completely stems from something deeper than financial gain—but rather a profound connection to the art that transcends a pure monetary mentality.

More Than Trophies 

Busta explained.

“I would be doing this if there was no money, which that’s what it was initially,”

Therein lies the power of his 35-year journey. Had accolades and paychecks been his sole motivation, Rhymes might have exited the stage long ago. Instead, he persisted. This unwavering commitment eventually yielded the recognition his talent deserved. While his machine-gun flow remains unmatched in hip-hop, what truly elevated him to receive the Hip Hop Icon Award, the Elite Icon at the Caribbean Music Awards, a Hollywood Walk of Fame star, and the VMA Visionary honor was something deeper—a passion that fueled him long before trophies lined his shelves.

Rhymes Lets His Light Shine

Rhymes stands at the summit of a career built brick by brick, savoring the view his perseverance has earned him. Yet even as he collects his flowers, he plants seeds for those climbing behind him.

“Think about what your contribution [to hip-hop] should be,” he counseled in his Billboard interview.Think about how significant your contribution needs to be and then deliver on that.”

While trophies now line his shelves, it’s this philosophy of giving rather than taking that truly defines his legacy.

As autumn arrives for this industry veteran, the harvest proves abundant—not just in accolades, but in the wisdom he continues cultivating for hip-hop’s next season. But none of this means he’s slowing down  anytime soon, as evidenced by the release of an upcoming project entitled “Vengeance.” It just means he’s adding more to his legacy for fans to savor.

Written by: Renae Richardson

 

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Busta Rhymes Unleashes The Beast At Essence Festival

Busta Rhymes Unleashes the Beast At The Essence Festival
Busta Rhymes. Image source: Erika Goldring, Getty Images.

During the Essence Festival this past weekend, Busta Rhymes’ temper flared, and he scolded the crowd of concert attendees.

Busta earned his nickname “Dragon” for a reason. This moniker perfectly captures the intensity with which he delivers his rapid-fire lyrics. His flow is sharp and explosive, leaving listeners in awe. However, at his concert on July 6th, Busta made it clear to his loyal fans that there are certain actions he will not tolerate, including the use of cell phones during performances.

Busta Rhymes Lectures

Numerous sources have reported that while Rhymes was performing, he suddenly stopped and gave a stern lecture. It has been stated by various outlets that several festival-goers were not only using their phones during his set but also sitting down. The iconic rapper appeared  irritated by this behavior and responded,

Aye yo. F*** the camera phones. I ain’t from that era. F*** your phones.

Was Rhymes Justified?

The festival attendees were undoubtedly surprised by this action. It’s not every day that an artist pauses their performance to demand the audience’s attention. Did Busta have a valid point in doing so?

Busta Rhymes is right to say that he comes from a different era. However, it’s important to note the technological differences between his time and now—specifically, the absence of cell phones. To make a fair comparison, there must be similar factors at play. It’s likely that if cell phones were as prevalent during the golden age of hip-hop, the crowd would have reacted similarly.

Society’s Shift And Its Impact

Society has changed, and it’s clear that people have grown accustomed to prioritizing their phones over in-person interactions. Countless articles discuss the effects of cell phones on relationships and social dynamics, all pointing to a decrease in genuine engagement. And unfortunately, he’s not the only one who has become less than enthusiastic about concert crowds recently.

Talking Generations

In recent news, Method Man sparked controversy when he announced that he would never perform at the Hot 97 Summer Jam again due to the age gap between him and his audience. Another media outlet highlighted this quote from the well-known rapper after his performance:

“Thanks again to New York and the entire tri-state area for coming out to support us, along with Pete and Ebro. I appreciate the love, but I have to say #nevercomingback. The generation gap has become too wide for me.”

However, the artist later clarified his intentions behind this statement.

Complexity Of Audience Engagement

When examining both scenarios, one must take into account that the lack of audience response may not solely be attributed to their cell phones. As Method Man argued in his case, the age gap among the attendees is also a factor to consider.

Numerous factors could explain why the audience did not react as Busta Rhymes had hoped. Should he have reprimanded his fans? Is it acceptable for an artist to lash out at their audience if they receive an unexpected or lackluster response? Was Busta right here?

Written by Renae Richardson 

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Busta Rhymes And Coi Leray Make A Bold Statement With The “Luxury Life” Visual Presentation

Busta Rhymes And Coi Leray Make Bold Statement With The Luxury Life Visual Presentation
Coi Leray and Busta Rhymes. Image source: Christopher Polk, Contributor via Getty Images and Prince Williams, Contributor via Getty Images.

Nothing garners excitement like the impending release of new bangers. But the intensity rises to an entirely new level when names like Busta Rhymes and Coi Leray are the artists behind the hot new drop.

 

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A post shared by Busta Rhymes (@bustarhymes)

Busta Rhymes & Coi Leray: The New Drop

Today, the headlines are ablaze, and social media is abuzz, all thanks to the release of a cinematic teaser for an upcoming collaborative track featuring Busta Rhymes and Coi Leray.

This eagerly awaited track is titled “Luxury Life,” and judging by the fiery snippet that Busta Rhymes recently shared, it’s set to ignite the music scene in a big way.

This Is Why It’s Hot.

This news is fascinating on multiple fronts. Firstly, the track brings together two outstanding hip-hop artists, creating a collaboration that’s bound to be exceptional. What adds to the excitement is the sampling of a classic from one of the greatest in the game, Jay-Z, with “Luxury Life” drawing from his 1996 hit “Ain’t No…”

Additionally, the cinematic visual is said to pay homage to one of the most iconic films in pop culture history, “Pulp Fiction.”

And to top it all off, the production is in the hands of none other than Swizz Beatz. Indeed,  the combination of these elements makes this release one-of-a-kind.

Busta Rhymes & Coi Leray: Cross-Generational Magic

Indeed, hip-hop fans recognize this isn’t the first collaboration between Busta Rhymes and Coi Leray. Those who remember their fantastic remix of “Player’s” know these two artists are a force in the music industry.

Despite the generational gap, their exceptional talents transcend age and elevate the art form. Busta Rhymes is known for his dynamic flow and lyrical prowess, while Coi Leray has been making waves with her unique style and fresh approach to hip-hop. When they come together, it’s like a musical explosion, akin to TNT. Beautifully, this explosive synergy does not go unacknowledged by either artist.

Leray has openly expressed her deep appreciation for the opportunity to collaborate with the legendary Busta Rhymes. In return, Busta has shown her the highest respect, praising her immense talent. But the best news is, remarkably, both have hinted at the possibility of more on the horizon.

Drop Date

For those with whom the sampling is insufficient to satiate the taste, “Luxury Life” is set to drop on Sep. 8.

Written by Renae Richardson 

Follow and like FMHipHop on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Spotify, and YouTube! 

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Busta Rhymes Holds No Punches: Chides Rappers Performing with Backing Tracks

Busta Rhymes
Busta Rhymes. Image Source: Joseph "Jo Lenz" Kindred

In hip-hop circles, the mention of Busta Rhymes draws mad respect. Busta Rhymes is one of the illest with the mic, and his showmanship and lyricism have been nice since he first stepped on the stage. Today Busta Rhymes had a little to say about rappers in the current generation and their choice of performing techniques. As the lyrical Super Saiyan pointedly pontificated,

“We the Holy, sacred, and Pure.”

Busta Rhymes Takes A Minute

In a live performance, Busta Rhymes took a moment to address young rap artists and their current approach to public performances. In this brief exchange, the hip-hop legend contended that younger artists lack a particular skill when performing live. He pointed out the stark difference between those in his class of artists and those of the new generation. In his words,

“They are cut from a cloth that is no longer manufactured.”

No Need to Mince Facts

There was no cryptic undertone in Rhymes’ argument. According to the artist, there has been a sort of dilution, a watering down of the art form that has taken place over time. He directly references how there was, as he put it,

“No additives, unnecessary mixing, diluting, or tampering with the holy, sacred, and pure before the current climate.”

That is to say, what you saw was what you got. The fans got raw, unfiltered lyricism that didn’t need anything to polish or bolster it. Undoubtedly this is a mouthful to digest and a gut punch to some.

Busta Rhymes’ Statement: Dissecting the Truth

Does he speak the truth? Well, Rhymes speaks from experience. His skill level is on another plane, and he has perfected his signature over the years. In many circles, when it comes to lyrical flow, there is no comparison. When he does spit, it’s like a raging fire no one can extinguish, thus his alias “The Dragon.” He’s always in beast mode. And beasts operate on a different level. So, of course, he will see things a little differently. However, it’s not wild to assume that not everyone agrees. There is always the argument of shifting landscape, the evolution of technology, and adapting to the changing desires of audiences. But that doesn’t take away the legitimacy of his view.

Busta Rhymes Does Not Walk Alone

Rhymes is not alone in this. Many people find the methods some current rappers use distasteful, if not talentless, displays. Joe Money had more than a few words on the subject in 2018. He called out young artists at the Rolling Loud concert.

So this is no new argument, merely a different voice of proclamation.

In Conclusion

Everyone knows what camp they stand in. And this will inevitably be a topic debated for years to come. And as time goes on and music evolves, there will continue to be this persistent call to go back to the roots of it all. Respectfully, there is nothing wrong with that. Contrarily, in a shifting landscape, things change, and that includes what is acceptable to the masses.

Nevertheless, regardless of what side one takes, FM Hip Hop lifts Hip-hop in all its forms. Long live the art form that has evolved into cultural expressionism and expanded beyond what one could ever imagine. May its reach remain as deep and profound as the progenitors and living legends like Busta Rhymes.

Written By: Renae Richardson

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Funkmaster Flex Challenges Wu-Tang Members to Make New Music

Hot 97 host Funkmaster Flex decided to call out yet another slew of hip hop artists who aren’t producing work. Over the past few months, Flex has called out several well-known rappers for not putting up in the rap game.  Funkmaster Flex is no stranger to beef or controversy. However, his recent exchanges stem more from frustration than actual malice. One of his first targets was Juelz Santanna. Santana who spent 19 months in prison serving out a weapons possession sentence. Upon his release,, music took a backseat as he pursued other ventures. Flex anxious for new songs called out the Dipset member. Flex utilized his platform to call out the rapper’s lack of output, “…we want a new Juelz Santana song…I will give you six days. Do you accept the challenge, yes or no?”  Santana then took to Instagram,, showing him working on a song with Benny the Butcher.

After the success of this callout,, other rappers who’ve been quiet recently felt Flex’s sting. Among the challenged rappers were heavy-hitting names like Busta Rhymes and Fabolous. These rappers likewise posted to their social media outlets letting fans know they heard Flex’s callout. However, these rappers pale in comparison to the latest emcees Flex set his crosshairs onto.

Funkmaster Flex’s Newest Challenge

After the apparent successes, Funkmaster Flex kicked it up a few notches by calling out Wu-Tang members Raekwon and Ghostface Killah. Flex held nothing back, “I challenge Raekwon and Ghostface to get me a joint…They gotta be on the…song…no features.”  Many quickly became excited at the mere potential of a new collaboration between the two. Even other artists called out as Busta Rhymes commented on his hopes for new music. While on the surface, this is no different than what Flex found himself doing before this callout’s impact easily eclipsed the others in raw excitement.

Why This One is Different

This is for obvious reasons. Few duos are more respected in hip-hop than Raekwon and Ghostface. The two found both creative and commercial success as members of the Wu-Tang Clan, on solo albums, guest features, and as a duo. Perhaps the only teams more revered than themselves are fellow Wu-Tang alum Method Man and Redman or Outkast. Despite their prolonged success and myriad classic projects, both have been silent recently. Raekwon last dropped an album five years ago, while Ghostface Killah focuses mainly on featured verses as of late. In comparison, his last solo album was three years ago.

In response to Flex, Raekwon posted a throwback picture of himself and Ghostface. While this is not confirmation of an official song, it was certainly enough to get fans excited. It is no wonder why. When two of the most respected members from one of the most influential groups are tasked with making new music, it is hard to be anything but ecstatic.

Is this a new wave?

A typical headline in recent months is one in which a legacy rapper calls out the new generation for lacking in some way. By no means are these complaints entirely false. Often the legacy emcees make a profound point on the changing landscape of the hip-hop scene. However, it becomes tiresome to see a legacy rapper call out the new wave without having a project of their own released or in the works. Is it hypocritical to call for better music and not make any of it yourself?

Written by Ryan Fields

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Dave Chappelle Is Unfased After He Was Tackled At Hollywood Bowl

Dave Chappelle
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 25: Dave Chappelle performs to a sold out crowd onstage at the Hollywood Palladium on March 25, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Lester Cohen/WireImage)

Dave Chapelle has been in the news a lot lately since his Netflix special, “The Closer”.  If you don’t remember, in “The Closer” he made jokes and statements about the LGBTQ+ community.  This prompted a walkout protest from employees at Netflix amongst other things.  Now, the “Netflix is a Joke” Festival is upon us, and Dave is performing during the 11-day festival featuring over 100 comedians.  All of his shows are still sold out even with all the backlashes!

Down goes Dave

At the Hollywood Bowl on Friday night, before Dave hit the stage, Dj Trauma, Jeff Ross, Donnell Rawlings, Deon Cole, and Bill Burr kicked the show off.  Dave was the headliner and followed these acts by addressing “The Closer” throughout most of his set into which the crowd enjoyed and laughed.  Last night’s performance will be very much memorable for Dave Chappelle and others. While on stage, he was attacked by a fan that appeared to be armed with a weapon.  Chappelle was wrapping up his set and while he was talking to the audience, suddenly a fan runs on stage and tackles the 48-year-old comedian.

https://twitter.com/nojumper/status/1521874864818331650?s=21&t=xWo_GMmaTSXJLQQUITXhxg

Luckily, he didn’t sustain any injuries and quickly went back to his performance initially making a joke about it. Chris Rock also chimed in, came on stage, and asked Chappelle if that was Will Smith, referring to when Smith slapped Rock at this year’s Oscars Awards.  Of course, footage of the attack quickly surfaced onto social media.  The attacker, Isaiah Lee, a 23-year-old man has been charged with assault with a deadly weapon.  A fake handgun with a knife inside was found on him before he was taken to the hospital after being apprehended by multiple people.  After this incident, the audience was forbidden to use their cellphones for the rest of the show.

Jamie & Busta to the Rescue

Apparently, Jamie Foxx and Busta Rhymes had a role in the incident.  According to Chappelle, both Jamie Foxx and Busta Rhymes helped escort the attacker out along with Dave’s security.

“Shout out to Jamie Foxx by the way…Whenever you’re in trouble, Jamie Foxx will show up in a sheriff’s hat…,” said Chappelle.

“I seen Busta Rhymes, he was like, ‘That’s how you do it, god”, said Jamie Foxx in regard to Chappelle and Foxx stomping Lee out.

All in all, it ended up being a great night.  Let’s just hope these stans can get themselves under control.

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Biggie’s “The Ugliest” Intended To Lyrically Slaughter Tupac

Lil Cease dropped a bomb in “The Art of Dialogue” Interview; “The Ugliest” was a killer track set up to feature Biggie, Nas, and also Busta. The project’s intent was to collectively destroy 2Pac in lyrical form. Lil Cease also noted that Biggie wanted Nas to go hard on “The Ugliest.” However, the Biggie, Nas, and Busta project didn’t come to fruition.

Little History On Tupac And Biggie

Without a doubt, Biggie Smalls and Tupac were two of the illest hip hop artist to surface. Both artists raised the bar for lyricism. Their lyrical tussle will forever be iconic.

In 1994 someone shot Tupac, leaving Quad Recording Studio in New York. In February 1995, The Notorious B.I.G. released “Who Shot Ya.” All eyes turned to Tupac, the public sentiment Biggie targeting Pac. However, according to a source, Biggie denied the allegations. The artists traded lyrical punches like blows in a heavyweight bout from then on. Pac’s lyrics were semi-automatic, and he didn’t give trigger warnings. Biggies style was subtle, like a weapon with a silencer, stealthy but deadly.

In Lil Cease words,

“Big Wasn’t gon put forth a full effort into a whole full song dissing 2 Pac—Big was kinda more like sprinkling on it. “

Lyrical beast with different lethal approaches best defines Pac and Biggie, together with Nas and Busta.

What Did Biggie With Nas and Busta Rhymes Intend In “The Ugliest?”

The subtext of Biggie’s lyrics in “The Ugliest” feature with Nas and Busta undeniably shifted sights to the “Hail Mary” lyricist. However, no names come up. So how do we know Big took aim at Pac? The lyrics tell the story.

“And the winner is, not that thinner kid, Bandanas, tattoos, my fist never bruise. Land still cruise, Frank White paid his dues.”

Everyone had familiarity with how Pac appareled himself. The portrait Biggie painted with his lyrics left nothing to the imagination.

What Happened With Biggie’s, Nas’s, and Busta Rhymes’s Project “The Ugliest?”

The song went unreleased. According to Lil Cease, Nas or Busta don’t spit on the track after Biggie flexed on his lyrics. A YouTuber contends Busta refused to release the single,

“[The Ugliest] Was supposed to be on Busta’s The Coming, but Biggie was aiming shots at Pac in his verse, so Busta took it from the album to avoid beef with Pac. Puffy tried to buy the beat from Busta, but he didn’t want to sell it.”

Despite the rationale for non-release, the world now has a sample to please the palate. If formally released, who knows if the collaborative effort of Biggie, Nas, and Busta would have forever etched their names in history as Pac’s lyrical assassins?

Are you interested in updated coverage related to Biggie Small’s murder? Then check out FM Hip Hop’s retrospective article. 

Be sure to like and follow FMHipHop on Instagram and Facebook!

Written by Renae Richardson

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Fredro Starr Talked With Scoop B About Verzuz, Mostly Focused On Jay-Z

Fredro Starr
Source: Getty

Apparently, the Onyx member Fredro Starr is a big fan of the Verzuz battle. At least, big enough to dedicate a decent part of Scoop B’s interview to it.

Fredro Starr, Nas, Prodigy
Fredro Starr pictured with the late Prodigy of Mobb Deep fame, and Nas. Source: Onyx/ Facebook

Mainly, Starr and the host of Bovada Sports Betting Show discussed the potential outcomes of an Onyx vs. M.O.P. battle. Fredro Starr also talked about various artists who could possibly stand up against Jay-Z on Verzuz.

Fredro Starr On The Possibility Of Onyx vs. M.O.P. Verzuz

Fredro Starr claimed that doing a Verzuz between Onyx and M.O.P. “would be fuckin’ crazy!” The reason is close bands’ location to each other, and also the fact that the bands “came out about around the same time, we both got that same energy.”

Unfortunately, Fredro Starr claimed, M.O.P doesn’t feel too excited about participating in Verzuz, at least for now.

“But I’m sure if the situation is right, we can get it done,” Starr cheered up. “We just have to get it done. They can drop Ante Up, and we’re gonna drop Slam! You know what I’m sayin’?”

Fredro Starr also talked about the other artists he would do Verzuz with. “I’m willing to take on Cypress Hill to do an Onyx/ Cypress Hill Versuz,” Starr claimed. “I’m willing to do an Onyx/ Dogg Pound Versuz.”

Starr On Potential Jay-Z Opponents

Fredro Starr also talked about potential opponents who would be good enough to do Verzuz against Jay-Z. According to Fredro, those artists are Nas, Eminem, or Busta Rhymes.

“I think Nas got records to go against Jay-Z,” Starr shared. “I think that when Jay-Z said that no one can touch him in Versuz, I was like… the first person that came to my mind was Nas.”

Compared to Eminem, Jay-Z is more “agreeable to the culture,” the rapper claimed. Thus, “Jay-Z would outlast Eminem in a Versuz.”

Meanwhile, Verzuz of Jay-Z and Busta Rhymes “would be a crazy battle.” This is because “Jay-Z would have more hit records that people would know,” while “Busta’s energy on stage would just be incredible.”

Written by Nikita Serdiuk

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Busta Rhymes Announces “New Album Done!”

Busta Rhymes hopped on social media this morning to announce his new album is complete with a bomb snippet. So all we can say is 2022 is looking good as the hip hop’s finest are lining up to show up and show out.

Fans of Busta Rhymes know he puts his life, blood, sweat, and tears into his music. We are talking straight acceleration, no breaks. So, reading Busta Rhymes stating that “New Album Done” means everything.

Busta Rhymes Adds Another Album

This upcoming record marks the Busta Rhymes’s 11th studio album release. After a two-year break, the announcement of this release was more than welcomed. This forthcoming album is following the artist’s 2020 release, “Extinction Level Event 2: The Wrath of God.” This news is pretty incredible given the wait time between ” “Year of the Dragon” and “Extinction Level Event 2: The Wrath of God.” Fans had an eight-year wait for the last album release. But, there is no doubt no matter the wait time, if Busta Rhymes is behind the album’s mic, the wait will be worth it.

Busta the Dragon

When it comes to crafting albums, Busta Rhymes is the beast. He never gives less than his best. He’s been elevating his artistry for 30 years. Still, after all those years of work in the industry, he continues to come with his A-game. His style is untouchable beyond duplication. If ever there was a blueprint for career longevity, then Busta’s got the scrolls.

What is the Secret of Busta Rhymes’s Albums Success?

Why does Busta Rhymes has such longevity in the music industry? Because every day the sun rises, Busta Rhymes is in the studio grinding the albums. In his words,

“I go into the studio because this is what I have dedicated my life to. 30-something years of dedicating my life to the studio.”

And the dedication shows.

Busta is Authentically Appreciative

Busta isn’t one to take all the shine for himself. Instead, he recognizes the teamwork that made his dream work. So, in the best fashion, while updating the masses on his project, Busta Rhymes took a minute to give credit to Dr. Dre and DJ Kay Slay. Also noted is his initiative to preview new music produced by an industry colleague Khrysis.

Who can be mad at that!

This Album Is Not The End For Busta Rhymes

Busta Rhymes is assuring his fans and followers this album thing is far from the end. This upcoming release is only one of many to come. As he candidly admits,

“I’m already recording for the next project and the project after that and the project after that. It’s a never-ending process.”

So it is! The dragon has spoken.

Currently, no additional details on the album are available. FM Hip Hop will provide the coverage as soon as the information drops. Salute to Busta Rhymes for being the example. And may he continue to be empowered to continue to create.

Read what another industry colleague Fat Joe had to say about icon Busta Rhymes in the FM Hip Hop retrospective article.

Be sure to like and follow FMHipHop on Instagram and Facebook!

Written by Renae Richardson

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DJ Kay Slay Recovering Following Complications With Covid-19

Wack 100’s manager, DJ Kay Slay has been hospitalized due to complications with Covid. In a heartfelt plea on Wednesday(Jan, 5) via Instagram, Wack 100 expressed the need for prayer.

Pray for my brotha @djkayslay It’s not looking good. He might be mad at me for this those that know Slay but he needs all the support he can get … Been 14 days fighting Covid and he’s just be put on a ventilator . Keep him in your prayers Please

Slay’s brother has since provided an update for his condition. He has now been removed from the ventilator and is breathing on his own.  

Many did not take well to the way Wack broke the news to the public. Him stating, “He might be mad at me,” insinuated that it was a private matter. The news that DJ Kay Slay had been battling Covid-19 since December probed the urgency for prayer.  However, Kay Slay’s biological brother, Kwame Grayson, spoke exclusively with  HipHopDX, and says the 55-year-old is on his way to a full recovery.

“He’s definitely not going to die,” Grayson tells DX. That right there…I’m not going to lie, I was jumping around. I was definitely happy. Kay Slay is a private dude and he didn’t tell anybody in the hospital who he was, and we was kinda getting average treatment. When they found out who he was, that’s when everybody stepped up treatment.”

He also shared that although Kay Slay was indeed slipping away, he has made a tremendous recovery. This is due to the fact the hospital staff amped up the treatment after following the discovery of who he was, according to Grayson.

The legendary DJ Kay Slay

Born Keith Grayson, DJ Kay Slay has pioneered his career by refereeing some of the most talked-about MC battles of the early 2000s. Notably Jay-Z versus Nas and 50 Cent versus Ja Rule. His Streetsweeper mixtape series is highly credited and with the follow-on of his Hot 97 radio show, The Drama Hour, his pungent personality made him the one to seek. Known for his underground success he solidified mainstream fame and continued issuing albums and mixtapes into the 2020s. With featured guest appearances by Lil Wayne, Busta Rhymes, Kendrick Lamar, and hundreds of others, Slay was the wave.

Meanwhile, DJ Kay Slay has been busy. Just two days ago, his Instagram handle alerted music lovers of his new release. “In My Soul” is an inspirational track that features Papoose, AZ, and Tre Williams. Check out the video below.

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Written by Antoinette Ford