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NMAAHC’s FREE Hip-Hop Block Party Returns!

The Hip-Hop Block Party: NMAAHC's Bash Is Back!
The Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture. Image source: Angela N., Flickr.

Ready to groove and move to what’s bouncing back onto the scene? The Hip-Hop Block Party is returning for the second time, and you won’t want to miss a beat! Mark your calendars for Saturday, Aug. 12, 2023, because that’s the day the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture transforms into the ultimate hip-hop mecca!

This year, they’re cranking up the excitement to the max as we celebrate a monumental milestone – 50 years of hip-hop’s brilliant artistry, breakthrough innovation, and global dominance. Five decades of pure hip-hop magic, and we’re about to jump right into the heart and soul of this epic cultural phenomenon.

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The audience at last year’s block party. Image source: Secret DC.

The air is electric with the beats that have shaped generations, the rhythm flowing through your veins like a musical adrenaline rush. As you step into the lively world of the Hip-Hop Block Party, you’re not just attending an event – you’re part of history in the making. From the funky beginnings to the mind-bending present, you’ll journey through the rhythm and rhyme that rocked the world.

However, this celebration isn’t just about music; it’s about honoring the very essence of a culture that has woven its existence into every corner of the globe. Hip-hop isn’t just beats and bars – it’s a movement, a lifestyle, a language that transcends culture and eras.

The Hip-Hop Block Party Bonanza: Immersive Hip-Hop Experience In The Museum!

There will be many activities from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. inside the museum on the first floor in Heritage Hall. Such as:

  • Interactive performances – Hip Hop Standing Yoga and Hip Hop Cardio with FITDC and The Art of Rhyme-Doin’ it the Right Way.

  • Providing audiences with the opportunity to share their opinions on trending hip-hop topics

  • A game of Hip Hop Trivia will be held to test audiences’ knowledge of the who, what, and when of the genre’s emergence over the past half-century. The night wouldn’t be complete without a special bonus round: ‘Name That Rap Voice’ – where contestants must guess the artist by just hearing their voice!

  • My Memories Photo Booth Collection Photo

Oprah Winfrey Theater (Concourse)

  • Screenings of Graffiti Rock and Wild Style are scheduled.

  • In Rhymes & Rebounds: Exploring the Fusion of Hip-Hop and Basketball, Justin Tinsley, a journalist and cultural observer, explores the intersection of art and sport with Flau’jae Johnson, rapper and basketball player for the 2023 NCAA Champion LSU Tigers.

Explore More! Interactive Gallery (L2)

  • Design and Make Your Own Tag and Bling

  • Live Sneaker Cleaning and Foot Care Expo

“Power of Place,” Community Galleries (L3)

  • Hip-Hop X Pop-up Sneaker Display

“Musical Crossroads,” Culture Galleries (L4)

  • Musical Crossroads Highlights Tour

  • Rap-influenced verse produced for audiences by The Typewriter Poets

Click here for more information regarding the activities taking place on Aug. 12!

The Party Features Which Artists?

There will be legendary artists performing at the block party. Among them are as follows:

American DJ and rapper Kid Capri! Bronx native Kid Capri turns records into pure gold! From eight, he scratched and spun his way to glory. Young Capri unleashed his turntablist wizardry and left audiences spellbound, even in his teens!

This dynamic artist wasn’t just content with pleasing local crowds. He took his talents to the iconic Studio 54, where the beats he dropped had the public busting moves they didn’t even know they had. In addition, he captured his powerful sets on mix tapes that became hotter than a summer sidewalk in the Bronx.

American DJ and rapper Kid Capri. Image source: Getty Images.

Now, let’s fast forward a bit. Kid Capri went from rockin’ those decks at Studio 54 to producing sessions for a crew of legends! Heavy D, Boogie Down Productions, and even the legendary Quincy Jones couldn’t resist the Kid’s musical abilities.

However, he wasn’t just about music. Capri knew how to bring the laughs too. On stage at Russell Simmons‘ Def Comedy Jam, he spun chuckles as effortlessly as he turned those records. For seven seasons, he was the godfather of comedy and beats, orchestrating hilarity like no other.

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Kid Capri DJing in his younger days. Image source: Pinterest

In 1991, Kid Capri unleashed “The Tape,” his debut solo masterpiece that sent shockwaves through the music scene.

Kid Capri’s 1991 debut solo album “The Tape.” Image source: Discogs.

Seven years down the road, he dropped the ultimate bombshell, the “Soundtrack to the Streets.” GOSH! The musical journey this man has taken us on! And he’s still going strong! He’s like the Energizer Bunny of hip-hop!

The Musical Maverick: DJ Cuzzin B Takes Center Stage

Who’s the other star appearing at the block party? Senior producer DJ Cuzzin B, aka Robert “Bobby” Carter, from NPR’s rocking Tiny Desk Concert series. But did you know that this musical maestro’s expedition started way back in 2000 when he graduated from Jackson State University? A blast from the past!

Young and enthusiastic Carter, fresh out of college, snagged a three-month internship. This mere stepping stone evolved into a 20-year radio career at NPR’s dazzling headquarters in Washington, D.C.

“I was interning at WJSU, the school’s radio station, and a recruiter for NPR walks in. I rushed her and asked for a job. She told me to slow down,” recalls Carter. “She said I couldn’t have a job, but she could give me an internship.”

Once that initial internship wrapped up, the producer from St. Louis decided to begin a new round of internships. He swam his way up the career ladder, transforming into an official employee like a superhero donning his cape!

DJ Cuzzin B, a.k.a. Robert “Bobby” Carter. Image source: Courtesy of Special To Clarion Ledger

With each passing year, Carter took on various roles with the energy of a musical ninja, and the result? In 2019, he earned the coveted title of senior producer for the Tiny Desk Concerts.

Bobby Carter, alongside his incredible music team, faced off against the challenges of the pandemic. And what did they do? They flipped the script and gave birth to the Tiny Desk [Home] Concerts series! From the soulful Kirk Franklin to the mesmerizing Tame Impala, and let’s not forget Jazmine Sullivan, these concerts became the stuff of legends.

Aside from music, Carter is keen on innovation too! He gathered brand-new initiatives and dazzling programs to sprinkle some stardust over the Tiny Desk audience. Like teaming up with Complexcon, diving into HBO’s “Insecure,” and even rubbing shoulders with the glitz and glamour of the 2021 film “Coming 2 America.” Talk about taking Tiny Desk to places nobody ever dreamt of!

Unveiling Monie Love’s Hip-Hop Journey

Crank up the hype-o-meter because the last artist I will mention will bring The Hip-Hop Block Party to a whole new level! British rap diva, Monie Love, breaks through!

Born Simone Johnson, a true hip-hop force, on Jul. 2, 1970, in the heart of Battersea, London, England. But Monie Love didn’t stop at her British roots. She packed her bags, hopped across the pond, and set up shop in the hip-hop mecca of New York City in 1989. That’s what you call leaping!

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British rapper Monie Love. Image source: New Lease Music

Monie Love wasn’t just rocking the mic solo from the get-go. Back then, she teamed up with her childhood pals MC Mell “O,” Sparki, and DJ Pogo, forming the ultimate dream team under the name Jus Bad Productions. Their first smash, “Freestyle,” dropped in 1987, and the streets were never the same again. But that was just an appetizer!

Fast forward to ’88, when Monie Love took the stage alongside DJ Pogo, they unleashed a series of 12-inch singles that were like treasures waiting to be discovered. And guess who heard the singles – DJ Tim Westwood! Then again, life’s not always a straight road. There were a few plot twists and delays, but that’s when fate stepped in.

Monie Love and DJ Pogo made their way to Cooltempo Records, armed with the infectious track “I Can Do This.” It blasted its way into the UK Top 40 charts like a musical meteor. Did someone say unstoppable grooves?

Unforgettable Hits

But Monie Love wasn’t here to drop hits and disappear into the sunset. She was just getting warmed up. She also unleashed another smash, “Grandpa’s Party,” paying homage to Afrika Bambaataa.

And she paired up with Andy Cox and David Steele of Fine Young Cannibals for the ultimate summer jam, “Monie In The Middle.”

In addition, she joined forces with True Image and took the UK to another level with their soulful rendition of the Detroit Spinners’ classic, “It’s A Shame (My Sister).” These geniuses even cracked the US Top 30 with that powerhouse hit.

So, gear up for the block party of the century! Ensure you’ve got your dancing shoes laced up and your energy levels set to maximum.

Find the NMAAHC Hip-Hop Block Party on Aug. 12, 2023, at 10:30 AM at the intersection of Madison Drive NW and 15th Street NW.

Written by Nikiya Biggs | LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook

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LL Cool J Responds to Akademiks Disrespect of OG’s

LL Cool J and DJ Akademiks

Akademiks had some bold sentiments he wanted to share about some of hip hop’s OG’s. Of course, his statements were in the course of an entire conversation on money moves and the music industry. But regardless, he went there and said what he felt at the moment with complete honesty. And from his statements, it was apparent he could care less about any blowback. However, rule number one is one can never underestimate an OG. Rule number 2 when you come for pioneers, be prepared to be schooled.

Akademiks Spits Some Disrespect

Akademiks recently made some disrespectful statements on Twitch regarding the OG’s of hip-hop. The Dj stated  (16;24),

“Them old rappers, man. Have you seen any of these old rappers who be like, yo, they are the foundation of hip-hop really living well? Them niggas be looking dusty.”

However, one OG wasn’t having the disrespect. LL Cool J, aka James Todd Smith,  made it his business and addressed the off-the-cuff statement.

LL Cool J Bonafide OG

LL Cool J earned his industry respect beginning his career in hip-hop in 1984 at 16 when he signed with Def Jam. And since he more than solidified his success with a music career spanning almost three decades. With thirteen albums under his belt, two Grammy’s, and several other awards, Ladies Love Cool James has more than paid his dues. So, when addressing disrespect, if anyone, LL is the man to do it.

LL’s Preface

LL saw Akademik’s comments as more than a little skewed. According to the artist, the shade Akademiks threw seemed to be the type that only targets one group of performers, rap artists. Smith (Cool J) prefaced his clap back by saying,

“No one discusses Miles Davis’s bank account. We don’t talk about John Coltrane’s bank account or even rock musicians.”

And admittedly, LL makes a viable point. But given the context of Akademik’s comments, that doesn’t seem like something he would even care about.

Defining Things Clearly

LL took it a step further than addressing the one-sidedness of such a statement. Smith also addressed the underlying vanity issue and misinformation of such a blanket statement.

“So just because they didn’t get rich or weren’t able to pile up millions or billions of dollars, does not mean they didn’t contribute to this culture. They created an industry we all ate off of. They created an industry you eat off of.”

No matter what one’s perspective may be, Smith’s response is the unadulterated truth. Contribution is about what you put into something, not what you get out of it. And frankly, some of the most significant contributions can’t be quantified.

Summing Things Up

Despite LL’s response, the question is whether Akademiks will take the time to hear anything the OG has to say. As per some of  Akademik’s last statements, it doesn’t seem likely.

“And none of y’all try to come for me because I don’t fuck with y’all niggas either.”

The good thing is that is only one perspective. Even if the DJ refuses to listen to anything Smith says, others will more than pick up what LL is putting down.

Written By: Renae Richardson

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‘Korea Liberation Day’ Is A Day Of Importance For Rapper Jay Park

jay park

Taking the time to respect past events will undoubtedly be seen as an admirable act. According to American rapper Jay Park, Aug 15 marks the freedom of Korea from Japan in 1945. It also led to the creation of the Korean government, which replaced the previous government’s law.

‘Korea Liberation Day’ Is Discussed In-Depth By Jay Park

On Aug 15, Park posted a clip to the music video for H1GHR Music’s “DNA” on his Instagram to honor Korea’s Liberation Day. The video was in English and had a long caption.

“Resources and artifacts stolen from or destroyed,” Jay posted.

According to the Edmonds-born rapper, the Korean culture and traditions were in danger of being destroyed, and they were at risk of extinction. In addition, there was once a prohibition on speaking the Korean language throughout much of the country. Therefore, people of Korean descent were forced to change their last names. Certain countries operate bizarrely. All individuals are entitled to keep the name they were given at birth, regardless of their nationality or heritage.

Koreans Underwent Immense Suffering According To Jay Park

Moreover, Koreans endured terrible suffering, including enslavement, death, torture, racial discrimination, and oppression.

“War breaking out within our own people and families torn apart and millions killed,” he said.

The effects of war on families have resulted in numerous cases of family breakdown, leading to a great deal of tragedy.

Immediately following the Korean War, South Korea experienced poverty comparable to that experienced by North Korea, if not worse. As a result, many people died from starvation and resorted to eating dirt to sustain themselves. The satisfaction of one’s hunger should never be achieved by eating inedible items.

According to the rapper, diligent work, perseverance, and unwavering willpower have turned disaster into victory throughout Korea’s long, turbulent, and heartbreaking history. Furthermore, Jay feels that the more he learns, the more aware he will be of his spoiledness. A mentality similar to Jay’s is not unique. In our privilege of enjoying a stable life without financial hardships, we tend to forget to recognize those struggling.

Jay Park Exhibits Appreciation

Aside from that, Jay wishes to express his gratitude to those who have ensured he has enjoyed such a rewarding life. One of the signs of maturity is expressing gratitude and putting pride aside when acknowledging one would not be where they are today without their ancestor’s contributions.

“The world knows us for entertainment, music and film. They will know our story soon as well. Happy Liberation Day,” Park said.

Objections Against The ‘DNA Remix’ Music Video

In June of 2021, the first version of the “DNA Remix” music video was released to highlight Korean culture and heritage. It also illustrates how Korean music has influenced cultures around the world. However, due to social media criticism, the video was set to private after many users pointed out the flaws. It has been argued that the rappers’ dreadlocks and braids illustrate cultural appropriation.

Former President Of North Korea, Kim II Sung, Freed The People In 1945

Now, let’s take a moment to talk about the hero who saved the day! Koreans observe the Day of Korea’s Liberation tribute to President Kim II Sung. Sung opened the way to a new life for the nation by performing the legendary deeds he is best known for.

jay park
Kim II Sung. Credit: Sergey Guneev/Sputnik

Due to the occupation of the Japanese military during the first half of the twentieth century, the Korean people experienced a great deal of misery. To lead the struggle for national liberation that Kim Il Sung initiated when he was at the country’s helm, he set up a state of war against the Japanese attackers.

There was an immediate release of the Japanese military on August 15, 1945, which marked the liberation of the Korean people from the long period of Japanese rule that lasted nearly half a century.

Experiencing Happiness

Furthermore, hundreds of thousands of people rushed to the playground, shouting thunderous cheers and waving flags in a show of unity, not only from Pyongyang and its surroundings but also from Sariwon, Haeju, Sinuiju, and throughout the country. When one knows they have just been released from adversity, they will likely celebrate with as much joy as possible.

The cheers expressed the Korean people’s appreciation for Kim II Sung. His leadership fulfilled the national dreams of the Korean nation. They also expressed their willingness and readiness to participate in creating a new country under his command.

jay park
Koreans expressed feelings of joy after being freed from captivity in 1945. Credit: Korean Friendship Association

On October 14, 1945, a historic meeting was held between Kim Il Sung and the country’s people at the Pyongyang public playground (now known as Kim Il Sung Stadium), in which he made a speech that will live in history.

A great deal of credit should be given to Kim II Sung for his diligent work. His contributions will be remembered forever. His efforts resulted in the freedom of many innocent individuals who had been held against their will.

Written by Nikiya Biggs

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Mary J. Blige Considers Working With Summer Walker And H.E.R.

mary j blige-h.e.r-summer walker
Photo Source: Getty Images

Mary J Blige hits the stage again as she’s warming for tonight’s (July 27th), Apple Music Live performance. The artist spoke with Apple Music’s Nadeska regarding her career, implying her interest in working with Summer Walker and yet again, H.E.R.

According to All Hip Hop, H.E.R. features on the remix of “Good Morning Gorgeous” for Blige’s fourteenth studio album Good Morning Gorgeous. H.E.R. was also honored with producer credit for the track. The queen of R&B says the first time she saw H.E.R. perform was at the Black Girl’s Rock show. She described feeling honored as she was sitting in the front row where H.E.R. came out with her guitar and all her beautiful hair. Reminiscing, she adds,  Who was this beautiful little girl with this bass? I was in love from day one. Her music was just incredible. So standing ovation and much, much, much love to her.” She continues to add, “And I always wanted to work with her. And this was the opportunity.”

Mary J Blige x Summer Walker!

The RIAA certified H.E.R.’s 2021 Back of My Mind album as Gold. Mary J. Blige also was honored with her nineteenth Top 10 entry on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart thanks to Good Morning Gorgeous. Back in November of 2021, Summer Walker also dropped her album Still Over It which debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 chart.

Blige stated that Summer Walker is a beautiful person who’s super talented. She admits when she was younger she didn’t experience love from other artists who came before her. She says, “I just wanted, what we doing? How we doing it? You all can help me too, I need some help too. What’s new?” She explains that artists must keep up to date with the youth as they can help the older generation as well.

 

Stephanie Kinberg

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FSU Professor Maurice Johnson Uses Hip Hop As A Teaching Tool

Maurice Johnson
Maurice Johnson, a professor at Florida State University teaches a class on hip hop culture. Image Source: Alicia Devine/Tallahassee Democrat

Professor Maurice Johnson at Florida State University teaches his students about Black history, society, and culture through hip-hop. Through various forms of media, Johnson’s Hip Hop Culture and Global Mass Communication class explores social and political issues in the Black community. Examples include “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash and The Furious Five or films like Boyz in the Hood.

Additionally, this course is based on his own HBCU experience at Florida A&M University. At the college radio station, The Flava Station, he was an MC, while his friends were DJs. After completing his graduate studies at FSU, he focused on Hip Hop culture in his Master’s Thesis, “A Historical Analysis: The Evolution of Commercial Rap Music.”

Maurice Returns To FAMU To Teach Hip Hop Culture

Professor Johnson returned to FAMU in 2011 to teach in their School of Journalism and Graphic Communication until 2021. He designed a course called Tupac Shakur: Popular Culture, Politics, and Social Justice for FAMU’s first-year experience program in 2021. The text for this course draws from the lyrics of Tupac Shakur.

Upon joining the faculty of Florida State University, he brought in Hip Hop culture to discuss mass communication theories. His approach received strong support. Further, Johnson felt a change when he went from teaching at an HBCU to an institution with mostly white students.

“Being in Florida and you have a governor that supports a bill that doesn’t allow educators to make white people feel uncomfortable, it empowers children and young adults to be less tolerant. I feel like the culture can be used as a connector provided it’s taught in the proper context. Everybody can’t teach about Hip Hop,” said Johnson.

According to Maurice, white people consume Black and Hip Hop culture but do not always cherish or value them. Therefore, students must understand that his class includes more than just listening to music. Instead, it involves understanding the socioeconomic and political issues discussed.

“If we’re talking about NWA addressing police brutality with ‘F*ck The Police’ and you have a family member that’s in law enforcement in the heroic image of police officers that you grew up with may not necessarily correlate with the information that I’m giving in class and there may be some backlash,” Johnson said. “But at the same time I have students who come up to me after class everyday or send me emails like ‘Man I appreciate this so much. I wouldn’t have known any of this if I hadn’t taken his class.’”

Hip-Hop As A Reflector Of The Issues Facing The Black Community

Since Hip Hop culture began in the Bronx Borough, Johnson explains how it reflects the reality and issues of the Black community. One example is the crack cocaine epidemic of the 1980s. In some cases, these facts are used against the artist as evidence. For instance, Johnson stated that the shaming of Black men in the media is not a new phenomenon, referring to 2 Live Crew’s previous slander lawsuit.

“If you’re not culturally competent it’s easy to misconstrue what’s being said. If you’re a suburban white parent and you hear ‘thug life’ you’re going to think of a thug living a particular way of life. You’re not going to think about the acronym, The Hate U Give Little Infants F*cks Everyone,” said Johnson.

Moreover, Maurice shows films to his students to increase their awareness of issues such as racism. His class uses materials dating back to the production of Birth of a Nation in 1915. One semester, Johnson showed films from the Blaxploitation era, including Mandingo, which presents the first Black protagonists on screen. Later, he used movies from the “hood movie” era, like Menace II Society, to address Black issues in the 1990s.

Study Presentation

In time, he wishes to demonstrate that Hip Hop culture is important beyond the classroom. Currently, he is presenting a study entitled Beats, Rhymes, and Life: A Testimony of Hip-Hop as Collective Leadership in P-20 Schools at the American Educational Research Association Annual Meeting in San Diego. Together with Dr. Asif Wilson from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Dr. Vanessa Ochoa from East Los Angeles College, Maurice will present research on how students interact with Hip Hop media in his First-Year Experience class at FAMU.

He is also pursuing a Ph.D. in educational leadership at FAMU College of Education. In his research, he explores how school leaders can engage students and boost academic performance using Hip Hop culture.

Written by Nikiya Biggs

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Ancestry Important According To ‘Love & Hip-Hop’ Stars

Love and Hip Hop Vh1
Source: Courtesy of VH1 / VH1

In a two-part special series of VH1’s Love & Hip-Hop, several stars took ancestry tests to find out where their families originated from. The special, aptly titled Love & Hip-Hop: Lineage to Legacy, aired earlier this month. Some participants included Remy Ma, Papoose, and Karlie Redd. These artists were able to participate in this special with the help of African Ancestry Co-Founder Dr. Gina Paige.

Remy Ma and Papoose
Remy Ma and husband Papoose discuss joining Love & Hip-Hop.

During the course of the show, Entrepreneur Yandy Smith-Harris found out her family is of Cameroonian ancestry, specifically from the Fulani tribe. Previously, she wondered if her children having multiple brand deals said something negative about her as a mother. However, finding out about her heritage has changed her perspective. “Cameroonians were marketers. Cameroonians were entrepreneurs,” she said. “So I’m going to continue to pass that along and nurture that in my babies.”

 

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A post shared by Love & Hip Hop (@loveandhiphop)

 

Black Americans and Ethnicity

Black Americans have a complicated history with the concept of ethnicity as a result of the transatlantic slave trade. In the United States, slave owners attempted to strip enslaved people of their individual culture markers. From these experiences sprung a collective culture meant to unite the diaspora. However, this made it difficult for the dependents of the enslaved people to trace their ancestry. This task was especially difficult as slave owners separated families by selling them to other owners.

With Reconstruction, the school-to-prison pipeline, and mass incarceration following slavery, it’s been difficult for many Black Americans to reconcile the issue of their ethnicity. These events still impact Black Americans today and is a primary reason their ancestry can be hard to decipher. Papoose noted this experience as an “emotional” one because of what Black people have been through in this country. Given historical context, it’s not hard to see why this information would elicit a passionate response from the reality stars. Adorned in traditional African clothing, the stars also participated in a photoshoot. “This isn’t your normal Love and Hip Hop thing,” said Rich Dollarz. “This is more of an evolution of Love and Hip-Hop, and it couldn’t come at a better time than Black History Month.”

Written by Kimberly Stelley

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Quavo: Migos Are “Most Definitely” Working on Solo Projects

Quavo migos

Everybody has to do their own thing, right? For Quavious Keyate Marshall (Quavo) of rap-trio Migos, he certainly understands that idea. Sure, Migos makes hits and globe-trots with style, but going one’s own way is important. So, why not release a banger with City Girls’ Yung Miami?

Quavo and Miami’s brand new “Strub Tha Ground” debuted on October 21 and is already making major waves. A debauched twerker-anthem that recreates the legendary ‘Freaknik’, it’s definitely worth the listen.

After dropping his latest single last Thursday, Quavo has announced that the group members of Migos are off to work on solo projects.

“We most definitely coming out with all our solo projects,” Quavo told Complex. Quavo would go to say later in the interview that,

“I feel like us together, we do a lot. We have done a lot. I feel like we individually haven’t…So I think this is the time to really show y’all where we came from individually. Y’all appreciate the group more right now.”

Quavo’s return to the solo life

That’s all fair and well and good. It’s happened before. With the quick success of 2017’s Culture, Migos found themselves up high. Following this, in 2018 and 2019, Quavo, Offset, and Takeoff all released their debut solo projects. Quavo’s 2018 Quavo Huncho produced such hits as “Lamb Talk” and “Workin Me”. “Workin” went Platinum with over one million units sold, and found itself at the No. 18 spot on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs. Huncho would later be certified Gold, selling over 500,000 units.  Perhaps the good-times wave of Culture III will bring similar results for Quavo.

In the meantime, however, Quavo is giving nothing away. In the same Complex interview he talks about “Strub Tha Ground”, saying that he doesn’t “necessarily want to call it a hit single because we’re just having fun”.  He goes to allude to more songs on the way, “every week, every month. Get that flow going.”

 

Garrett C. Owen

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Rihanna Talks New Music; Coming Soon?

Rihanna Superbowl Guest List Is Still In The Works
Rihanna gestures on stage during her Fenty Beauty talk. Image source: Mark Ganzon, Getty Images for Fenty Beauty.

While Rihanna is getting ready for her fashion show this week to premiere her new Savage X Fenty collection, she also answers fans’ questions about her new music. Rihanna told fans that “You’re not going to expect what you hear. Just put that in your mind. Whatever you know of Rihanna is not gonna be what you hear.” As the week goes on, fans expect more exciting news about Rihanna’s releases, as much as her new fashion merch.

Rihanna Away From Music 

Rihanna Responds To Billionaire Status At Savage X Fenty Show
via Buzzfeed News

It has been five years since fashion mogul Rihanna has dropped a studio album. Rihanna understands the fans’ anticipation for her music and how she was before leaving the scene. However, she does not let that stop her from pursuing true aspirations of being a humanitarian and fashion Icon. Rihanna has made an honest living and more money working within the fashion industry than music. She is also among one of the wealthiest music artists, among other things. Her empire within fashion has an expanded net worth of nearly two billion dollars. A very profitable venture and detour she has taken away from music, as many would agree.

Global Icon

Rihanna is also a giving person outside of music, fashion, and her dating life. Back home in Barbados, she is known as a local ambassador for her community. She helps to fund and clean up the environment. Rihanna also has multiple charity organizations and friends that help her reach out to the less fortunate youth and adults. She is a significant influence in helping inspire positivity. Rihanna works with impoverishing and underprivileged communities. Not only that, she is known globally for it outside of her music career. In summary, she has been and continues to make a difference. With her new music coming out sooner than later, who knows what impact she’ll have on her music and fashion fans.

For more news on Rihanna’s upcoming music and acts of humanitarianism, tune in to @fmhiphop.

Read about Rihanna’s and A$AP Rocky’s dating life here.

Written by: Zacchaeus Heyward

Twitter: Prophetzacc22| Snapchat: Prophetzacc22

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Drake Buys Into Fast Food Chain

Rapper Drizzy Drake is now taking his investments to another level with his recent investment in fast food. Although this isn’t his first go-around dabbling into the food industry, he is still making headlines by being a few artists to invest in fast food. Drake made an announcement today via social media: Drizzy is now a minority stakeholder in Dave’s Hot Chicken Franchise. He has open two locations in Los Angeles and Toronto.

Drake’s Interests in Food

Drake has sung numerous amount of lyrics that pertain to food. He uses it in a metaphor that often describes his hot and juicy rapping style or his flaming and competitive nature. Either way, Drake is a lover boy for more than just women but food. In Drake’s “NWTHS” album, in a track called “Come Thru,” he made a food reference to his style by saying, “Girl, you know I got the hook up. They just wait on me to cook up. You heat up the stove. I do the dishes, you know?” Such flow and grace when comparing his ways of eating when serving lyrics make his fans hungry for more.

Drake Is Now a Major Investor in LA Chain Dave's Hot Chicken - Eater LA

Drake, via Eater

Drake’s Admiration For Dave’s Hot Chicken

Earlier today, Drake made a statement about the opportunity to be part owner. “After meeting with the founders and hearing the story, I jumped at the opportunity to invest.” He also said that he tried the food and thought it was amazing. Pictures of him eating their flooded social media as the franchise’s Instagram page made it known that they have a new partner. Drake and the owners are very excited to see where the journey goes. Fans and chicken lovers definitely have something to look forward to while the franchise grows in popularity.

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Written by Zacchaeus Heyward

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Funniest Comedians In Stand-Up: Possible Kevin Hart and Katt Williams Verzuz Battle

Katt Williams

Kevin Hart and Katt Williams going toe-to-toe in a possible Verzuz battle per Katt Williams might actually happen.

Williams is very keen on the idea but states that he is not worried. He does not think Kevin nor any comic except Richard Pryor, can compete with him.

VIDEO: Katt Williams Calls Kevin Hart A Puppet - See Kevin's Response!
Kevin Hart and Katt Williams /icecreamconvos.com

Comparing Hart and Williams

Kevin Hart unarguably championed stand-up comedy over the past decade. He has released several comedy specials and has had huge ticket and box office success on stage and on the big screen.

Katt Williams also known as “The King of Underground Comedy,” has also had a lot of commercial success. In the decade before Kevin, he had several comedy specials, starred in movies, and was heavily imitated by his fans. He even conquered some of these feats in Kevin’s decade of fame.

Kevin is famous for his humorously relatable stories with his family and friends. Katt Williams is most comically famous for his blunt yet consciously aware demeanour and jokes. The two are great in their own bouts. However, the question is, how would the two match up competing with each other with their styles?

Katt Williams stumbles

Katt Williams’s success can not be mentioned without his trials and downfalls also. He has been arrested numerous times and got into altercations with other celebrities like Tiffany Haddish. He is sometimes thought of as being controversial. Nonetheless, he assures everyone that he regrets his behavior.

It makes him one of the proudest and humorously attractive comics the world has seen. He makes this evident every chance he gets. For example, he recently had an interview where he told his interviewer “Comedically beefing is my lane. It’s almost cheating for me. I have over ten specials.”

He is very confident in his ability to perform. He has everyone wondering what’s next.

Will he battle Kevin Hart in a Versuz battle soon? Find out more @fmhiphop

Written by: Zacchaeus Heyward

Snapchat: Prophetzacc22| Instagram: @Prophetzacc22