On Oct. 26, fifteen lucky fans will get a chance to experience Doja Cat’s Los Angeles living room concert. The artist has partnered with Airbnb, which will provide a space in the city to host the event.
Not only will the listeners visit Doja Cat’s unplugged show, but the space where it takes place will also offer an immersive museum-like experience. The artist decorated the place with her grandmother’s hand-painted art. In the meantime, Doja and the other hosts will also provide event-appropriate food (including caviar) and a tone-setting playlist before the show starts. There will also be a mirror with questions everyone has to answer in their own way.
The living room kind of concert is also a new experience for Doja Cat. “I’ve spent the last year performing on the world’s biggest stages, and now I’m ready to share my art with fans in a more intimate setting,” the artist said. “This will be a first for both me and my fans, and I’m excited to share this moment with them.”
If you want to get tickets for the event, do so quickly using the link below. The pre-order stops on Oct. 11 at 11:59 p.m. PST. After this, Doja and her team are going to pick 15 people who will get a chance to visit the mysterious event.
Besides trying new types of shows, Doja also tries herself in commercials. A recent ad from Brisk Iced Tea shows the artist in animated settings and surrounded by animals. Doja also appears to have some superpowers, which help the animated artist save her friend in the ad.
“This is our biggest launch in over a decade,” explained Julie Raheja-Perera, the general manager and vice president of the company making Brisk Iced Tea. We wanted to partner with someone as bold as we are and drive claymation forward in a fresh new way for a whole new generation.”
With so many collaborations and partnerships taking place in Doja Cat’s life, she’s steady on her course of success. Hopefully, things will remain this way, and there will also be enough time for Doja to make new music.
Dame Dash and Jay-Z. Image source: Ray Mickshaw, WireImage.
With the shocking revelations surrounding Sean Combs’ arrest, the focus on the hip-hop community has heightened. The scrutiny is intense, leading some celebrities with connections to remain silent. However, others have quickly spoken up. Dame Dash’s recent expression of his concerns has captured interest.
Dash’s Ill-fated Connections
Diddy is the king of making headlines. His arrest and ongoing investigation are holding the media captive. This is one of the most talked-about criminal cases in recent years. And the whispers and rumors surrounding the case just keep growing as evidence emerges. Jay-Z’s alleged involvement in these illegal activities has been one of the subjects of speculation. That seems to be what drew out artist and producer Dame Dash.
Where Everybody Knows Your Name
The hip-hop business is well-known for its tight-knit community. And given this, there are more than a few hypotheses of why Dame has chosen to be vocal. One observation from the interview is clear: Dame seemed shaken and confounded throughout. It appeared these allegations had crawled under his skin, causing him much unease.
Is Dame Dash Clearing His Name?
Many expected Dame Dash to talk about Jay-Z, as their tenuous relationship has been public for some time. Perhaps what was said was not so expected. His open musings got somewhat dark and the implications even darker.
Dash’s interview certainly angled on the insidious nature of these accusations altogether. There was however an undeniable undercurrent. The artist continued to, revert to one point, ensuring the listeners of his lack of involvement. He even went so far as to thank Jay-Z for his protection.
It seems harmless enough. Some contend it played as an attempt to distance himself. As one social media poster commented,
“I’ve been watching these videos of his on his YT Tube channel. What do you think? Something seems a bit bad taste. I like Dame Dash but these videos come across as a separation exercise. “Look at me, I’m not like them.”
If this is the case, would anyone blame him? Besides, his actions likely reflect what other celebrities are doing by saying nothing or devising their ways to create distance. Notably, Dash’s conversation took it a step further.
Stirring The Pot
Dash’s hour-long interview also heavily delved into his reflections on the matter. This included a hypothesis regarding how Diddy might have taken advantage of his guests. He hypothesizes that perhaps Diddy did so by slipping something in the Ciroc served allegedly served at parties. He went on to make other hypothetical allegations regarding Jay-Z. While it seems he was simply trying to reason out loud, some have taken issue with his approach.
“Dame Dash thinking Diddy in a factory somewhere stirring a big Witch’s cauldron of spiked Ciroc is hilarious.”
Some even labeled Dame Dash a tattle-tell, referring to the artist/producer as “chatty patty.” This is what that respondent had to say, “ya know for someone who always exclaim that men/or bosses shouldn’t be chatty patty…. Dame Dash is always spilling the tea.”
Controversy And Hip-Hop Culture
Admittedly, this entire debacle is now larger than life. Unfortunately, eyes are being opened. Sadly for some, the sun will go down on their careers. Others will breathe a sigh of relief for dodging a bullet. Like all major disasters, events such as this give the collective pause. It makes one reconsider their connections, motives of others, personal purpose, and character. This is sorely needed.
Into The Future
Two important factors undergird the continuance of hip-hop. First, hip-hop’s long history and the multitude of artists ensure its survival. Second, hip-hop is more than a music category, it is an indestructible, ever-evolving culture, a movement, and a way of life. Alarmingly or not, before this is all over, things will look different. Is that a negative?
Dash Echoes A Strong Sentiment
The current situation is incredibly saddening. Pulling off the mask to reveal the person behind it and discovering that it’s someone you know can be shocking, hurtful, and life-changing. But, not everyone wears masks. This incident does not apply to the entire hip-hop community. Rather, it illuminates the true character and values of the individuals involved.
What is important to remember is that there are those in the community making a positive impact. They are the agents of light, protecting and empowering the youth, and providing resources for growth and progress. Thus, these individuals should not be overlooked or disregarded.
Embracing Accountability And Growth
While some found negativity in Dash’s interview, there were positives.”To echo Dash’s sentiment now is a moment for introspection and reflection.” And it’s going to take a bit of time to reflect, digest, and overcome. What is inescapable is accountability. Facing one’s misguided actions and lapses of humanity is uncomfortable. Nevertheless, it is a vital experience.
Hold on, this is far from Hip-hop’s final credits. It is merely the intermission.
James Earl Jones. Image source: Fernando Leon, Getty Images.
This month is a time of mourning for fans of popular culture, as the world witnessed the passing of the unforgettable Frankie Beverly, James Earl Jones, and Tito Jackson. These three notable names in the entertainment industry were men of incomparable talent, and they will be sorely missed.
Legend: Frankie Beverly
Who was Frankie Beverly? Frankie Beverly is well-known for his contributions to music as part of the iconic group Maze. Their song “Before I Let Go” cemented their legacy in the world of music. Interestingly, Beverely was astounded by the level of popularity that the single received. In an interview with Essence, Beverly acknowledges his lack of surprise and unexpectedness, stating, “Before I Let Go” turned out to be something greater than I even thought. I was blessed with that.”
Legends Never Fade: Beverly’s Lasting Legacy and Final Goodbye
Great things aren’t always expected. There is no doubt that Florence Beverly and Maze left an imprint that future generations will remember. Not every accomplished artist can pursue their dreams to the end. However, Beverly did. According to EW, Frankie Beverly and Maze did a farewell tour that included six cities in March of this year. As he bid farewell to the stage, little did he know he would soon bid goodbye to the world. The crooner was 77 years old at the time of his death on September 10.
The Jackson Five: Pioneers of Pop Culture
The Jackson Five made a lasting impact on the world with their unique blend of talent and charisma. The group, consisting of five talented boys from Gary, Indiana—Jackie, Marlon, Jermaine, Tito, and Michael—were trailblazers. According to the Hollywood Reporter,
“They were one of the first Black pop acts to have crossover appeal, setting the blueprint for many boy bands that would come after.”
Legend: Tito Jackson
Tito, the third child of the Jackson family, displayed exceptional musical talent from a young age, demonstrating his innate musical abilities, according to The Hollywood Reporter. While many may remember him for his guitar skills, that was far from his only contribution. Additionally, Jackson showcased his writing skills by co-writing “Everybody” on the 1980 “Triumph” album. Furthermore, he is also credited with production and writing for “We Can Change the World” on the 1984 “Victory” album. Subsequently, Tito went on to manage his son’s 3T.
It can be said that. Tito never left his first love of music. The talent continued to make music up until 2021, when he released his final album, “Under Your Spell. “Sadly, Jackson succumbed to a heart attack on September 15 at the age of 70.
Legend: James Earl Jones
James Earl Jones has left an indelible mark on pop culture, with his name forever synonymous with Hollywood history. His iconic portrayal of Darth Vader and animated Disney favorite “Mufasa” has solidified his place in film history. Additionally, his unmistakable rich tonality became his signature, something that no one could ever replicate. However, these are just two of his many notable contributions. According to Entertainment Weekly, Jones has over 80 works to his credit and over 60 years of experience in the field. Jones has also been highly honored for his achievements.
In 2017, Jones received a Lifetime Achievement Tony Award. With two Emmys, a 1977 Grammy, and his 2011 honorary Oscar, Jones is one of a handful of actors to achieve an EGOT.”
Jones: The Iconic Voice and Beacon of Resilience
Jones not only inspired others with his professional example but also served as a beacon of resilience and determination in overcoming personal challenges. As EW went on to note,
“The actor, who famously struggled with a childhood stutter that put him through several “mute years,” established himself as one of the most admired American actors of all time.”
Legends Never Fade: Farewell Frankie Beverly, Tito Jackson, and James Earl Jones
The world and industry will miss these bright and shining stars. While they may have left this world, their legacy will forever shine brightly in the hearts of those who cherish their work.
Vanilla Ice. Image source: Ivan Gavan, Getty Images.
Vanilla Ice is letting people form their opinions about his music legacy, which speaks volumes about who he is.
A legacy is a lasting impression that embodies the impact one has made on the world. Vanilla Ice was among the earliest hip-hop artists to achieve mainstream success. As TMZ points out, his breakout single was the first rap song to reach number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1990, and his first album solidified his status as a household name, selling millions of copies globally.
Vanilla Ice: Pioneering Mainstream Success In Hip-Hop
During the 1990s, “Ice Ice Baby” dominated the airwaves and was nearly impossible to escape. The hook was so infectious that everyone could recite the flow verbatim.
The Overshadowed Influence
Although his discography may not be as extensive as that of other artists, there’s no denying that he left his mark in the industry. Billboard has recognized him for having one number-one hit and two top-ten hits. Despite these accomplishments, Robert Matthew Van Winkle rarely integrates himself into discussions about the influence, direction, state, or future of hip-hop, but why?
Vanilla Ice: The Challenge Of Authenticity
Although rap has become more diverse over time, it hasn’t always been this way. While artists from different backgrounds have showcased their skills and talents, not all have been accepted with the same level of legitimacy for various reasons. The Ringer highlights how, at 23 years old, Vanilla Ice was once the top rapper in the industry but also faced criticism from purists for appropriation and authenticity. This could explain why he has remained silent on most matters.
Vanilla Ice: Setting The Record Straight
During an interview with Vlad TV, Vanilla Ice addressed some misconceptions. He made it clear that he has a deep understanding of hip-hop and those who have played a pivotal role in its evolution because he was present during those moments. However, he did not offer any further details on the matter. However, Van Winkle humbly replied, “I believe it is up to my fans to determine,” in response to a TMZ journalist’s question about his influence through his music.
A Lasting Impact
Individuals will form their judgments about Vanilla Ice and his music legacy. Regardless of one’s stance, it’s undeniable that Robert Van Winkle left a mark on the music industry, whether perceived positively or negatively. He played a role in shaping the landscape.
It requires a significant amount of humility to step back and allow others to assess one’s impact. This level of modesty stems from valuing passion over acclaim and genuine love for the craft over fame.
From a young age, Lucky Daye felt that music was an essential part of his life. So he pursued his passion with zeal and hunger, hoping to succeed. However, life taught him about the harsh realities of pursuing a dream, and he recently spoke candidly about one of his darkest moments in an interview on the “Bars and Nuggets” Podcast.
Learning from Lucky Daye’s Journey
Chasing a dream necessitates a specific mindset. Frequently, our desires outpace our knowledge and resources. However, as Daye discovered from his experience, chasing a dream without fully understanding the challenges and sacrifices involved can have disastrous consequences.
On Bars and Nuggets, Daye reflected on the path that led to his current success as an artist. Daye experienced a bit of opportunity earlier in his pursuits. According to Afrotech, he secured a gig with fellow New Orleans musician August Alsina. Daye ultimately decided it was time to pursue his solo career.
Struggles and Resilience
Despite his optimism and drive, he quickly realized his knowledge was inadequate. When he arrived in Los Angeles, it became clear how much he still had to learn. As he put it,
“I came to LA and I realized I did not know sh-t.”
This was just the starting point. He still had some challenges to overcome. The young dreamer soon understood the importance of financial preparedness. And with no true support system to fall back on, things got really dark.
According to Daye, he didn’t have anything. In the interview, he was sure to clarify that his difficulties may not be comparable to others, but for him what he would endure was what he defined as, “a low point.” He admits,
“It got to the point where I ran out of friends, money, and hope.”
So, in those difficult times, he had no choice but to limit his diet to water, convincing himself that he was on a water fast. When his body reached a certain point of hunger, he used the limited funds to purchase celery, as it was the only food he could afford.
Lucky Daye Rekindles the Fire Within
Perhaps the most heartbreaking moment was when he wondered if he was on the right track.
“Ever since I was a kid, people have always said, ‘You’ve got a gift.’ I realized maybe music ain’t for me, and it hurt because I swore this is my thing. This is all I’ve got.
However, there was still this spark of determination to keep moving forward. When it came to a deciding point, he had to choose whether to give it his all or pack up and leave. He ultimately decided that he knew his purpose and was willing to go to any length to achieve it. So he rebranded, reconnected, and went to work.
The Path to Success
It paid off in the end. According to Afrotech, Daye’s first album received positive reviews from notable publications such as Rolling Stone, Complex, NPR, Essence, Hypebeast, and Billboard. Additionally, Daye won four Grammys. This is noteworthy as it speaks of his character, ambition, and certainly grit.
Insightful revelations like this can be harsh, but they help to keep things in perspective. They allow idealistic dreamers to truly comprehend the dedication and perseverance required to succeed in the music industry. Each artist’s journey may differ, but it is crucial to understand the
DJ Cassidy's "Pass The Mic" Las Vegas Residency. Image source: Live Nation.
Attention all hip-hop enthusiasts and DJ Cassidy fans: get ready to be thrilled! The unveiling of the highly anticipated dates of DJ Cassidy’s iconic “Pass the Mic,” residency indicates one of the hottest summers in Las Vegas history
This year, Cassidy will be hosting “Pass the Mic” once again. There is also an amazing roster of hip-hop greats lined up to perform. According to the press release, this event will feature a roster of the genre’s most iconic names, promising an unforgettable musical experience that will redefine collaboration and celebration. What better way to enjoy the summer in Vegas?
DJ Cassidy: A Lifetime Behind the Turntables
DJ Cassidy is right at home behind the turntables. According to an earlier interview, the artist’s love of hip-hop began when he was a toddler and has only grown stronger over time. And, having spent 75% of his life honing his craft, it is no surprise that the 42-year-old has emerged as an industry powerhouse. It is undeniable that his hard work, determination, and natural talent have resulted in great success. This includes multiple performances at the White House for former President Barack Obama. However, DJ Cassidy’s impact during the pandemic, truly solidified the magnitude of his art and passion. His ability to use music to bring joy and uplift spirits amid global turmoil was unparalleled.
DJ Cassidy’s “Pass the Mic” Residency: Historic Las Vegas Experience
In 2022, Cassidy announced the end of his pass-the-mic pandemic series and TV specials. Variety reported that after hundreds of passes, the final installment would air on Oct. 4, following the BET Hip-Hop Awards. But there was no need to worry because Cassidy would return with more to move the crowd.
Live Nation and Caesars Entertainment are pleased to present the “Pass the Mic” Residency. Steve Rifkind, the founder of Loud and SRC Records and a well-known music mogul, is producing this event, which will take place on July 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, and 20, 2024. Raekon/Ghostface Killah, Public Enemy, Akon, Jermaine Dupri/Da Brat, Too $hort, and Warren G are among the iconic names on the roster, which, as Cassidy notes, will provide audiences with an unforgettable experience that will be remembered in Las Vegas history. As he puts it,
“Just like how Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop came together in Vegas to form the Rat Pack, Ja Rule, Fat Joe, Slick Rick, Doug E. Fresh, and I will team up to create an experience that will go down in Vegas history.”
Get Ready to Sizzle
Ready to spice up your summer with some sizzle, joy, and a memorable hip-hop event? Get your tickets now! And, mark your calendars for July 5th, when the Bakkt Theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino will kick off these electrifying performances led by DJ Cassidy.
Kendrick Lamar and Drake: Image source: Getty Images.
There are rap battles and warfare, and Kendrick Lamar and Drake demonstrated the latter. Lyrically, they were locked and loaded on the battlefield, and neither took prisoners.
A few weeks ago, the world witnessed the start of the next era of rap battles. Older hip-hop fans recall the early ’90s rap battles between legendary artist Tupac Shakur and the Notorious B.I.G. Since then, there has been little dust-up in battle rap. However, J. Cole and Drake laid the groundwork a little more than a month ago. Like the first match in a title fight, it was only a preview of what was to come when Drake and Kendrick would take their positions in the center of the ring. And as the Ringer points out, it was worth paying attention to. Why? Well as noted
“Hip-hop has become more diffuse and hyper-regional; Drake and Kendrick represent the last artists popular enough to suck up this much oxygen.”
A Journey Through Creative Conflict: Who’s Winning?
Everyone has their own perspective. However, in terms of balance, Hip-hop reigns supreme. Fans are witnessing lyricists at work, each elevating the other as they reach down into that creative space to find that fire to demolish the competition. This time around, the conflict has been ongoing. So, where did this all start?
“First Person Shooter” and the Rise of an Epic Rap Battle
It all started with the “First Person Shooter” project, which featured Drake and J. Cole.
Cole’s verse was an ominous predictor of what was to come. As Cole flows, “N****s so thirsty to put me in beef, dissectin’my words and start lookin’ too deep.”
And Kendrick Lamar was one who didn’t take too kindly to the mention of his name in the pair’s collaboration. In response, Lamar used his feature on “Like That” to scorch his lyrical nemesis.
Cole responded with a “7-minute drill,” which some interpreted as a few mediocre jabs.
Despite public sentiments, Cole decided to step down gracefully after some thought. Nevertheless, that did not derail the express train to one of the most intense rap battles of all time.
Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar
Drake took offense to Lamar’s verse and responded with a rumored leaked diss track, “Push Ups.” Before Kendrick could respond, Drake aimed and fired again in “Taylor Made Freestyle.”
The heavyweight that Lamar is, he was not taking it on the chin, and he came back stronger with “Euphoria,” which ABC27 describes as a six-and-a-half minute track that “hits like an opus.”
He unleashed a full-fledged lyrical assault that many believed was a TKO that Drake would not recover from
Drake vs. Kendrick Lamar: Go Hard or Go Home
The artist responded with “Family Matters.”
That was nowhere near the end. It became apparent that these two were likely to go for ten rounds. And Lamar didn’t disappoint, coming back with “Meet the Grahams.”
To add insult to injury, in the style of “Mortal Kombat,” Lamar did not just try to “Humble” Drake but “finish him” with “Not Like Us.”
All Eyes on Drake
At this point, Drake had everyone’s attention. Many wondered if Drake’s response was worth it after Lamar’s rapid-fire responses. But when you are in the ring, and your reputation is on the line, you fight until the end. In his track “The Heart Part 6,” the “Certified Lover Boy” stood up for one more pushback, or, as some believe, defensive posturing.
There has been no exchange since Drake’s response was released. The question remains: Is one even necessary? As ABC 27 notes, the “hotline bling performer sounded “notably lethargic on the song—potentially taking a final bow .”
Hip-hop for the win
Although fans have their favorites, when two artists compete to prove their mettle, hip-hop always wins. So, for FMHipHop readers, who’s your pick?
Dee-1, the Christian rap artist, has recently expressed thought-provoking statements that prompt deep reflection. While opinions on the matter may vary, his argument invites contemplation on the authentic meaning of a “Legend.”
Redefining Legends
In the realm of hip-hop, artists often find themselves categorized into different classes, with distinctions varying across publications and individuals. One of the highest echelons of hip-hop artistry is achieving “legend” status. Recently, Dee-1 has been making the argument that specific artists should be stripped of the legend title, citing a compelling reason. According to the artist,
“We need to take the legend status from a lot of the people who we call legends in Hip-Hop, and that’s going to hurt their ego, but that’s going to help our community.”
It’s crucial to note that this conversation originated from a question posed to Dee-1 in a recent interview on Art of Dialogue. When directly asked if he believes, as suggested by another public figure, that N.W.A. ushered in an age of destruction, Dee-1, despite not being around during N.W.A.’s debut, explained that he doesn’t know who exactly initiated what is termed as “destruction.” Nevertheless, he stands steadfast in his beliefs. Artists that glorify violence were identified by Dee-1 as contributors.
Dee-1 On A Paradigm Shift
With such a stance, one is led to ponder the rationale behind such a statement. Dee-1 is unequivocal about the “why.” According to the artist, what one contributes holds greater significance than the duration of their contributions or when they started contributing. The true measure of a legend, in his view, lies in contributing to the growth, progress, and upward mobility of the discipline for which they are labeled.
N.W.A’s Legacy
The group the interviewer uses as a model is none other than N.W.A, an early predecessor in the rap game. N.W.A (N****** With Attitude) consisted of members Ice Cube, Easy E, Dr. Dre, Arabian Prince, MC Ren, and later the DOC and DJ Yella.
The rap supergroup was formed in 1987 by Easy E. According to Britannica, Easy E utilized drug money to finance his entrepreneurial ventures. One of his ventures included a record label, where he later recruited Dr. Dre. The group’s inaugural single was released in 1987. Notably, Ice Cube and MC Ren are recognized for writing most of the songs, including the infamous “Straight Out of Compton.”
Even in earlier years, their work was notorious for what many perceived as “inciting violence.”
Dee-1’s Controversial Take
However, the group is widely regarded by many in the community as legends. But why? They are considered pioneers of a specific category of Hip Hop known as “Gangsta Rap.” Herein lies the crux of the argument. According to Dee-1, what N.W.A has contributed has led to a regression rather than a progression of the community it served. As Dee-1 notes, “Once we acknowledge what you have contributed to the genre, your whole career, and if we acknowledge that you’ve contributed a bunch of negativity, a bunch of violence, a bunch of disrespect of women, what do we do?” In his perspective, stripping away their legendary status is warranted. Does he have a point?
The Subjectivity Of Perspective
The perspective remains subjective, contingent on one’s definition of a legend. It hinges on whether being a pioneer, regardless of the nature of what is pioneered, is sufficient for the title. Alternatively, should the value of the contribution be a crucial factor? Given that Dee-1 is recognized as a Christian rapper with specific values, logically, his perspective aligns with his beliefs. However, this may not be in harmony with the perspectives of others with different beliefs.
Reflecting On Dee-1’s Position
Nonetheless, it is a valid argument with substantial merit, deserving reflection and intellectual discourse. It is certain that this won’t be the last time the argument is raised, and full concession may never be reached. If the objective is community improvement, considering hip-hop’s influence, this is a discussion worth having. FMHipHop acknowledges that our readers are avid hip-hop enthusiasts. As lovers of hip-hop, what is your perspective on this argument? Which side of the debate do you find yourself standing on?
"Moon Man" by Kid Cudi. Image source: Consequence Sound, The Chosen Artwork.
Artistry is recognized as a wide-ranging talent paired with the capacity to apply it across different mediums. Amidst numerous performers, only a handful truly embody the essence of an artist, and Kid Cudi exemplifies this distinction admirably. His multifaceted body of work and unwavering dedication to continual growth serve as compelling evidence.
Recently, Cudi has introduced yet another intriguing addition to his already impressive portfolio.
Kid Cudi: The Profile Of An Artist
Kid Cudi is anything but average; that simply does not define him. As reported by EW, Kid Cudi’s entrance into the music scene was notably captivating because of his unconventional approach. Right from the beginning, it was evident that he was an artist who defied conventions and possessed a distinct and original approach to his craft. As EW notes,
“Beginning with his first mixtapes, he combined rapping with singing in a way that proved influential in pop music.”
In later years, he continued to grow and diversify his art. One of the standout features of his expansive body of work was his 2022 dynamic project “Entergalatic.”
This project stood out for its distinctive approach, as Kid Cudi combined an album with an animated feature to create a rich and immersive musical experience. The project’s reception served as clear evidence of its success and the significant artistic impact it had.
As reported by Revolt, “Entergalatic” garnered widespread acclaim from film critics, earning an impressive 93% positive rating on Rotten Tomatoes, speaking volumes of the project’s excellence.
Treading New Waters
Now, Cudi is testing new waters and immersing himself in a new medium: the comic world. In a recent appearance at NYCC (New York Comic Con), the artist revealed an impending comic book, “Moon Man.” This is amazing, as it will be his first foray into the art medium. Not only that, but it is a medium that few hip-hop artists cross over into.
“This might be one of the top three coolest things I’ve ever been a part of. I promise this comic will be unlike anything you’ve read.”
And that’s a big statement. This work is a collaborative project. Kyle Higgins serves as co-writer, and Marco Locati and Igor Monti contribute to the artwork.
The plot of the story is affixed around an astronaut by the name of Ramon Townsend. It follows Townsend as he navigates his life after returning from a mission to the moon that is described as near disastrous. According to the write-up, Townsend’s efforts in saving his crew led to a life of celebrity. But what good is a story without some intrigue?
As EW notes, “certain moments during that mission weren’t captured by cameras, and they will change Ramon into something the world has never seen before.”
More About Moon Man
This is a project that is certainly worth looking forward to. It’s always amazing to discover new depths of talent in the artist one supports. Kid Cudi is a prime example of someone who sets ambitious goals and relentlessly pursues them, which is truly inspiring.
A statement Cudi once made is exemplary and stands as a staunch reminder of what an achiever’s mindset looks like. His wisdom is crystal clear in the statement, “Don’t wait for anyone’s approval when you know what you are capable of.”
Ive never lead a movie or a tv show until I made my own show after 14 years of workin in this business. Make it happen for urself. Dont wait for anyones approval when u know what ur capable of. Industry didnt give me a chance? Cool. Did it myself to critical acclaim 😌
Will Smith. Image source: Matt Winkelmeyer, Getty Images.
Will Smith is adept at keeping his fans intrigued. The actor’s latest venture, the “Class of 88” podcast, is sure to captivate Hip Hop enthusiasts.
Hip Hop was Will Smith’s driving force long before he moved to Bel Air to assume the throne as the Fresh Prince. In the 1980s, the young Smith could be found rocking the mic with DJ Jazzy Jeff on the turntables. The aim was to move the crowd, something that continues to be the actor’s motivation though on different frontiers.
In the years since Will Smith rocked the stage with the hit single “Parents Just Don’t Understand,” his artistry has evolved. But there’s one thing certain: Hip Hop has never left the actor. Smith’s new Hip Hop podcast continues to prove how much he values the art form.
Make Space: Will Smith’s Bringing “Class of 88”
There are many podcasts out there which shine the spotlight on Hip Hop. So, what will set Will Smith’s offering apart from the others? This podcast will focus on one monumental year in Hip Hop and those who elevated the art form to a whole new level. As Billboard notes,
Smith will explore the landmark year of 1988, which included the rise of Public Enemy, the ascension of DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, and the outpouring of female MCs such as Salt-N-Pepa and Queen Latifah, “an area in which Smith certainly has expertise.
No one knows the prolific nature of this time period like Will Smith. In 1989, he and DJ Jazzy Jeff changed the game by winning the first Grammy for the best rap performance, an obvious sign of the times.
What’s So Special about 1988
A 2011 article by Victor Simmons, now found in the New York Public Library, terms 1988 as the year of Hip Hop. The 1980s was a decade of change. It was a transformative year. None were quite so impacted by the tumult as New Yorkers.
Out of the ashes, a phoenix rises. As written, “The South Bronx suffered dearly during the ’80s, and by 1988, it wasn’t burning any longer; it had already been burned. By 1988, Hip-Hop was already deeply entrenched in the minds of many. A new breed of rap artists emerged to take hold of the imaginations of its listeners.”
And a new era began. Therein lies the prolific nature of 1988 as it relates to hip-hop.
Much Success to Will Smith: Mad Love to Give
Given that Hip Hop is in one of its most significant celebratory years, there is no time to honor the changemakers like the present. And a podcast that brings these greats up to the mic to expound upon their impact is something incredible. Do we need another hip-hop podcast? Of course, the culture can never get enough of a good thing. The more avenues available to learn from the ones who have done it and are still doing it, the better.
So, all the best to Will Smith in this new venture. This new platform is truly a gift to the fans of hip-hop. For those who are eager to catch “Class of 88,” the eight-series podcast will begin streaming on Oct. 26 and become available on Amazon Music and Audible.
