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Irv Gotti and Murder Inc.

On August 9th of, 2022, the world got its first backstage pass into the life and struggles of Irv Gotti with the premiere of Murder Inc. The series is a documentary. But, ultimately, it is an extensive diary entry highlighting the exploits of Irving Domingo Lorenzo (Gotti).

The Irv Gotti Story

Murder Inc, the five-series documentary on BET, highlights Gotti’s history, collaborative partnerships, artists, and success and failures. However, fundamentally it is an expose on labels, label owners, and offstage access to hip hop behind the scenes. The series is three episodes in and provides an hour’s worth of behind-the-scenes insight weekly. Accordingly, Ja Rule, Jay-Z, Ashanti, and Charli Baltimore are a few of the artists highlighted. And the series lays out its content via a sequence of roll-back clips, highlights, and live commentary from Gotti and the artists themselves.

Murder Inc. An Open Book

Three of the five episodes have already aired, with the first two based on Gotti’s beginnings, vision, and early stages of success. And the first two episodes of Murder Inc. provide a consistent chronicle of the label. Conversely, the third episode, “Foolish,” takes a detour. This episode is dedicated to Gotti’s once-upon-a-time flame and artist Ashanti. Although the episode is directed as an open account from Irv’s perspective, the world isn’t exactly feeling these open pages. Some go as far as labeling this portion of the narrative sketchy and predatory.

 

Assessing the Murder Inc. Story

Even though the third episode doesn’t sit well with some overall, the documentary serves its purpose. It gives an authentic behind-the-scenes look at a label in the hip hop world and the artist impacted by the moves of those in charge. And from what is on display, a good takeaway is that a lot goes into maintaining a successful label. Gotti’s success is multifaceted, resting on his vision, ambition, and strategic mindset. Earnestly Gotti’s contribution to hip hop is undeniable. But, while a lot is worthy of recognition, not everything is laudable.

Nevertheless, whether the Murder Inc. story is or is not well received, it does the job of presenting access to the side of a story from an untold perspective. And if nothing else, the series stands as proof that there is a lot that happens beyond the spotlight. While the life of a label executive may be lucrative and satisfying, it is also consuming and a road not always paved with good intentions.

Written by: Renae Richardson

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Ja Rule And Fat Joe To Contradict Irv Gotti On Ashanti

Ja Rule is in the game! Recently, the rapper expressed his thoughts concerning Irv’s unrespectful comment about Ashanti on “Drink Champs”. During the interview, Gotti talked about his breakup with Ashanti and how he doesn’t express any remorse now since he had many other love affairs, better ones. Although saying this, Gotti didn’t stop talking about his relationship with the songstress.

Ja Rule made it clear that he doesn’t want to be involved in the beef between the ex-couple. In the podcast, the Murder Inc Founder claimed that her 2002 song “Happy” was recorded after the two had sexual intercourse. The latter simply wanted to react to Gotti’s gibberish and end it. Furthermore, he took the matter to Instagram and posted :

“Brotherly love… The last few days have been very turbulent for me but it’s time to land the plane,” Rule wrote. “I love my sis I love my bro but I DO NOT condone or agree with the behavior nor the way Gotti handled things on drink champs….”

Fat Joe Shot at Gotti and Ja Rule

gotti-ashanti-fat joe. Image via Getty/ Hipnaija.com

Additionally, Fat Joe criticized the 52-year-old rapper, which he evidently didn’t appreciate. Later off, broke off all ties with him. Joe called his behavior disrespectful towards Ashanti. Also, Fat Joe blamed Ja Rule for not supporting the talented songstress considering the two are good pals.

They even collaborated on multiple songs, including “Mesmerize,” “Wonderful,” and so forth. Ja Rule addressed the matter further and clarified that he has a good bond with both singers and does not wish to be part of their feud. He mentioned on his Instagram story :

 “STOP saying I didn’t defend sis and all women when I clearly told Gotti to stop calling Ashanti/women the B word same way I told Joe at Verzuz watch the interview before you talk s—.”

That happened. Irv seemed not to be appreciating those comments as Joe continued:

“Gotti a sucker, man. He a sucker,” Fat Joe says. “Y’all can @ Irv Gotti, Ja, whatever the f**k you want,” he continued. “Whatever Irv has with Ashanti is 20 years old, right. I know he was making some points that mean a lot to him. But when you keep ranting about somebody 20 years later, it felt like he’s not over the young lady, right.”

Despite the chaos going on, Ashanti appeared quite not bothered by the situation as she tweeted, “Morning y’all. Sending out positive vibes and energy.” On top of that, she partnered with her ex Nelly last week to hold a show in Oakland.

Want more news on Ashanti, Gotti, and Ja Rule? Check out FMHipHop headlines to know more.

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Written by Satina Bungsy

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Ja Rule Supports HBCUs With NFT, Deion Sanders Approves

After Diddy gracefully scrapped up to 1/48th-1/98th ($2M) of his yearly income ($50-$100M) during the 2022 BET Awards, Ja Rule seems to follow the steps. The “Venni Vetti Vecci” author’s recent Instagram post suggests “get on the Blacklist NOW.” Some of Ja Rule’s Jul 14 NFT sales will then “SUPPORT HBCUs Hampton, Morgan, Spelman, Moorehouse and Jackson St.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by JaRule (@jarule)

Deion Sanders then went on to thank Ja Rule for his generosity. “I wanna thank my brother Ja Rule for hitting me up and including our program in his heart along with several other HBCUs,” Sanders, you’d think, told Ja Rule, not TMZ. “My brother, I’ve always admired and applauded you from afar, but this is a TRUE blessing for our TEAM. God bless u, my brother!!!”

While certainly nobly intended, Ja Rule’s decision to invest in NFTs might be under-calculated. The recent crypto crash also significantly affected the NFT market. The current estimate prices for NFT stay from a bit to substantially lower than previously, while the overall NFT sales also fell from the last year.

“Murder Inc.” Documentary Series: The Story Of Ja Rule

A couple of months ago, Irv Gotti and BET announced the production of the “Murder Inc.” documentary series. At the time, BET executive vice president Tiffany Lea Williams thanked “Irv for trusting BET to tell the story.” She also proclaimed, “looking forward to bringing a music documentary series that reveals how this label changed the music industry forever.” 

In the recent short interview, Gotti also gave more details on the upcoming screening. “My Murder Inc. documentary is coming [Aug 9] at 9 p.m.,” the producer informed. “Tune in. It’s dope.”

“That group [Murder Inc.] was something that I felt special about ’cause all three of them is like my brothers,” Gotti continued. “I knew all three of them like 10 years before we all got on. I knew Jay since ’87; I knew X since ’88; I knew Ja since ’91. Just understand, I knew that those three was gonna conquer the world before they conquered the world.”

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Written by Nikita Serdiuk | IG: @nikitasrdk | Twitter: @nktserdiuk

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Ja Rule Reveals His Life Code on Origins of Hip Hop

“Origins of Hip Hop” is a new series that is expanding cultural knowledge with its spotlight pieces on Hip Hop’s icons, Ja Rule is one of those put under the spotlight. 

Ja Rule Snags a Feature on “Origins of Hip Hop”

Creators of  “Origins of Hip Hop” are providing fans of hip-hop culture with a unique look into the lives of their favorite hip-hop icons. Before release, viewers were given a snippet of what to expect. For those who were able to glimpse the “Origins of Hip Hop” teaser, there was something to learn about the incomparable Ja Rule. 

Ja Rule’s Imprint

 Ja Rule was a stand-out artist in the late ’90s. His rough vocals were signature, giving him an unmistakable and unforgettable presence. At the time, Rule’s name was synonymous with the label Murder Inc. Whether it was a hard-hitting track, collaborative work, or a love song, he left an undeniable imprint. One utterance of the word “Murda,” and fans instantly knew who was rocking the mic.

 Turning Back a Few Pages

 Ja Rule went on to carry that presence into his work on films such as Fast and Furious and Assault on Precinct 13th. Fans are not totally clueless about who Ja Rule is. As an artist in the spotlight, much of one’s life is lived out in the public’s eye. What many know only scratches the surface. On “Origins of Hip Hop,” Ja Rule is flipping back a few pages and giving the world a little more perspective on who he is, what he’s been through, and what has shaped him. 

A little History on Ja Rule

 While Music has been a passion for Rule, he hasn’t always been engaged in the craft. In the series Rule expounds on turning to drug dealing to make paper. While his turn to dealing was partly due to the persona, cred, and money associated, he took on that mantle to help his mom.

” She couldn’t really lean on any family for financial help. At that moment, I knew that I was willing to do whatever I had to do to help.”

 Sadly, his choice is reflective of a move many must make.

 Family Over Everything

 This was not the only time Ja Rule would go all-in for his mother, proving the code he lives by puts family at the forefront. Thankfully, Ja Rule didn’t need to continue working the streets. His talent led him to a major record deal. One of the perks of signing was a 50K advance. However, where most would splurge their cash, not Ja Rule.

“I went to tell my mother that I had the deal and she told me she was diagnosed with cancer the same day.”

 For Ja Rule, his mom came first. He spent 40K of the advance money on his mom’s medical care. It was not because his mother asked him to, but because of a life code. In his opening up about the incident, he  said,

“We don’t give up on our family, we fight the fight.”

How admirable is that?

A Cultural Win 

Thanks to the “Origins of Hip Hop”, fans know a little more about Ja Rule and the code he lives by. But, of course, he is not the only one viewers will learn about. So props to the creators for crafting a series that will bring more insight to the masses, rounding out their knowledge of cultural icons. A big part of passing on culture is learning about the most prominent contributors, and this show does that.

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Written by Renae Richardson

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Ashanti Honored With A Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Today, the Hollywood Walk of Fame honored Ashanti with its newest star . The multitalented singer, actress and businesswoman was bestowed in Los Angeles, Califormia Ape. 7. 

“Speechless. Humbled. Honored. Grateful. Thank you guys sooooooo much,” the artist wrote in the caption of her ceremony announcement on Mar 29.

Many friends and family attended the ceremony along with Ashanti. Such included Ja Rule and Tichina Arnold.

The artist’s mother also attended to share a hug on the stage. “My mom’s first trip to L.A., she walked in this very block and walked into a souvenir shop when I was mixing my first album,” Ashanti explained. “She bought one of the Hollywood stars with the nameplate and got my name printed out on one of them. She said you’re gonna get one of these one day.”

Ashanti Honored With A Star on the Hollyworrd Walk of Fame
Ashanti speaks onstage with her mom, Tina Douglas, during the Hollywood Walk of Fame Star Ceremony for Ashanti on April 07, 2022 in Hollywood, California. Image source: Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images.

Ja Rule and Tichina also said many kind words to Ashanti. “You should be in the Guinness Book of World Records for being a beautiful human being,” Tichina claimed. Meanwhile, Ja Rule added that “getting a star on the Hollywood walk of fame is like the top of the top.”

Ashanti also thanked “Team Ashanti,” God, family, friends, crew, and fans for her success.

Ashanti Honored With A Star on the Hollyworrd Walk of Fame
Tichina Arnold, Ashanti and Ja Rule attend the Hollywood Walk of Fame Star Ceremony for Ashanti on April 07, 2022 in Hollywood, California. Image source: Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images.

Ashanti’s Walk Of Fame

The artist’s eponymous album “Ashanti” brought her immense recognition. She managed to get to #1 on the Billboard Top 200 chart. Meanwhile, “Ashanti’s” various hit singles worked Ashanti the title of the first woman artist with the first three chart entries in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100.

Ashanti’s Conflict With Beyoncé

Ashanti also beefed with Beyoncé back in the day. By the mid of 2000s, the two were competing for the place of the most successful woman in the Industry. Various media outlets even covered their conflict, figuring both artists’ musical approaches and success rates.

Ironically, while Beyoncé’s 2000s band, Destiny’s Child, received their Walk Of Fame star in 2006, Beyoncé still doesn’t have one of her own.

The First Black Woman to Co-Found a Web3 Company

Apart from being a great and recognized musician, Ashanti has also become the first black woman to launch a Web3 company.

“By empowering myself through new technology, I’m trying to help other women avoid going through the things that I’ve been through,” Ashanti explained. “The future belongs to those who take control and make it their own.”

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Written by Nikita Serdiuk

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Ja Rule Reacts To Will Smith’s Oscar Slap After The Resurfacing Of An Old Dave Chappelle Video

On Monday (Mar 28), comedian Dave Chappelle became a trending topic for an old joke he made about Ja Rule. Chappelle recalls seeing the Murder Inc. rapper on MTV around the time the World Trade Center collapsed by terrorists in 2001.

In addition, Chappelle asked Ja Rule what he thought of the horrific act of terror. However, Rule was evidently of the opinion that it was absurd.

“I remember right around September 11, Ja Rule was on MTV,” Chappelle says in a video clip circulating online. “They said, ‘We got Ja Rule’ on the phone. Let’s see what Ja’s thoughts are on this tragedy.’ Who gives a f**k what Ja Rule thinks at a time like this, n***a? This is ridiculous! I don’t wanna dance. I’m scared to death!”

Ja Rule Responds To His Fans In An Amusing Manner

Additionally, the clip was connected to the recent controversy surrounding Will Smith and Chris Rock at the 94th Annual Academy Awards. In addition, fans questioned, “Where is Ja?” Similarly, Ja Rule answered their call and appeared on Twitter shortly after that with the message: “Slapping season is OFFICIALLY in session…”

Moreover, the incident occurred on Sunday night (Mar 27). The Oscars were also playing. Furthermore, a confused crowd watched Will Smith walk up to Chris Rock and hit him across the face in the middle of his duties. Nonetheless, he found a G.I. Jane joke that Rock told concerning the bald head of Jada Pinkett offensive.

Celebrities Join In On The Controversy

Naturally, the internet exploded with memes and reactions at their expense. Celebrities such as 50 CentSnoop DoggOffset, and The Game all joined in.

“I feel you will smack the SH*T out of one of you n**gas bout my wife on national tv,” the Migos rapper tweeted. “Will Smith the greatest to do it.”

Will Smith Apologizes

In the end, Smith apologized for attacking Chris Rock onstage after the incident. Nevertheless, he acknowledges that he acted inappropriately but condemns violence in general.

“Violence in all of its forms is poisonous and destructive,” Smith also wrote in part. “I would like to publicly apologize to you, Chris. I am embarrassed, and my actions were not indicative of the man I want to be. There is no place for violence in a world of love and kindness.”

Written by Nikiya Biggs

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BET Announces New Documentary Series, “Murder Inc.”

Black Entertainment Television or BET is announcing a documentary series called “Murder, Inc.” The network and Irv Gotti are producing the series. Lorenzo narrates the series, showing the rise, sudden fall, and redemption of Murder Inc. Records. Lorenzo launched the record label in 1999 and was significant in his role. Its role was to make sure it was successful in helping start and guide the musical careers of its artists. 

Executive Vice President Tiffany Lea Williams of BET is saying: 

“Music is in our DNA. We thank Irv for trusting BET to tell the story. We are looking forward to bringing a music documentary series that reveals how this label changed the music industry forever.” 

BET & Irv Gotti’s Documentary Production

Gotti is executive producing the documentary alongside rap icon Ja Rule, best known for beefing with fellow rap icon Curtis Jackson, more popularly known as 50 Cent. Also making the documentary alongside Ja Rule is Darcell Lawrence and Chris Costine. Michael J. Payton is serving as the director for the documentary. 

People also say: “Each episode is taking viewers through the label’s beginnings to now. The show is showing archival footage and showing music chart-toppers and the players that helped shape an era that is impacting future generations.” The documentary is airing in Summer 2022 on BET. 

Gotti is saying: “My life and Murder Inc. has had many highs and lows. I am working with my brothers and many great people. People like Jay Z, DMX, Fat Joe, and Mary J Blige.”

“I got to start my record label with Ja Rule by my side,” Gotti explained, while talking about the BET documentary. “My life has had great lows, but I’m talking about those lows. It is all still helping me. So, with this documentary series, I am planning to tell the truth and nothing but the truth so help me GOD.”

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The 2021 Soul Train Awards Performances, Bring Back Love, Peace, and Soul

The 2021 Soul Train Awards proved to be an immersive experience bathing its viewers in an afterglow of r&b, funk, and soul. Performances were powerful, scintillating, and sexy.

Setting things Off Proper.

Things were off and popping from the beginning, with Silk Sonic moving and grooving the crowd. Their undeniable funky sound, smooth moves, and retro look were picture perfect. Their set was proof it would be a night of incomparable flyness.Silk Sonic has been blazing the stage from the American Music Awards to Soul Train. Although the group didn’t make the show, they found a way to set off the night. They took it  back from their 70’s looks to their signature dance transitions.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWfIoQoKZ8Q

Hosts Tichina Arnold and Tisha Campbell kept the fires stoked with their performance. Their showcase reminded the crowd of the music, passion, and purpose that solidified Soul Train as a cultural force. They took us down memory lane with soul classics such as Martha and Vandella’s ‘Dancing in the Streets’ and Jackson Five’s ‘Dancing Machine. And a special performance by El Debarge put a bit of rhythm in our night.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZbuWBy1Ltc

Soul Train Center Stage

Ari Lennox looking exquisitely angelic gave a sultry performance of “Pressure.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-OcGAe8JOs

Then the show took a praise break with an uplifting performance of “Yaweh” by Fred Hammond.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buX2NKKD8sM

Marrzz deliverance of a smooth and melodic hypnotic vocal left us with the assurance no one could stand in the shadow of her orbit.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r83poF1nQ6s

Leon Bridges brought in the wow factor with some retro bedroom soul reminiscent of singers of yesteryear like Teddy Pendergrass.

And Summer Walker didn’t disappoint with duet partner Ari Lennox. These soulful vocalists gave light to the new age of soul music.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdTpQ-URyTw

Soul  Train Soul Cypher

The Soul Cypher had the crowd vibing with some of the industry’s favorite soul singers and D-Nice on the turntables. The performer’s blending of old-school flavor with a relevant twist was everything. Musiq Soulchild, Jac Ross, Koryn Hawthorne, Elle Varner, and Tone Stith’s flawless harmonies were amazing. In addition, their subtle and powerful tribute to Aaliyah was praiseworthy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZbuWBy1Ltc

Special performances

Ashanti stole the show with some of her greatest hits. Her performance was perfect in every way yet wholly complete with former label mates Fat Joe and one-time duet partner Ja Rule.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mqDuiqThMZI

Then, an old favorite, Maxwell, signed, sealed, and delivered his performance with matchless swagger. His command of the stage gave everyone a little something-something to remember.

What better way to end than as it started? Silk Sonic left us all ‘Smokin out the Window.’ The 2021 Soul Train Awards was a celebration Don Cornelius would be proud of. It was indeed a night flowing with love, peace, and soul.

Check out a recap of 2021 VMA winners in FM Hip Hop’s retrospective article.

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Written by Renae Richardson

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Next ‘Verzuz’ is Coming, Likely Big Daddy Kane Vs. KRS-One

The new ‘Verzuz’ event has been announced for October 17th. It’s probably not going to be 50 Cent Vs. T.I. However, viewers guess Big Daddy Kane and KRS-One are to perform. 

On their Instagram, ‘Verzuz’ had published a poster with the upcoming event date and performers’ silhouettes. Fans of the show have reacted immediately, also posting their guesses about the silhouettes’ owners.  

https://twitter.com/SameOldShawn/status/1444422028036034563?s=20

The silhouette conspiracy is topped by Big Daddy Kane’s words about KRS-One and wanting to battle with him. In 2019, Big Daddy Kane told Okayplayer that KRS-One’s “battle skills are incredible.” 

“I’ve watched stuff that he’s done with other people he battled,” Big Daddy Kane said. “Direction-wise, I really respect his battle skills. If you want to go at it with someone, you want to go at it with the best. He’s one of the best-established artists who knows how to battle.”  

‘Verzuz’ in the City

The upcoming ‘Verzuz’ is yet again happening in New York City. So did one of the previous events, which ended up with controversies. 

During the event, Irv Gotti called out 50 Cent. While Fat Joe and Ja rule competed, Irv Gotti was commenting on the event’s stream. He claimed, “All y’all talking about that 50 sh_t.” Irv then added, “All good. He got beat up stabbed up. Shot up. And sued us. That’s all I’m gonna say. Your hero ain’t what you think he is. Period. And facts.”

Ja Rule also joined Irv later, stating that 50 would be nothing without Eminem. 

In response, 50 Cent posted a series of pictures. In the photographs, 50 is wearing a suitdrinking cognac, and also smoking a cigar. The rapper also reminded in the comment section that “I put they whole label out of business, f_ck with me if you want to. I would stay out of my way if it wasn’t me. LOL.”

Next ‘Verzuz’ is Coming, Likely Big Daddy Kane Vs. KRS-One
Fat Joe and Ja Rule at the ‘Verzuz’ stage via Rolling Stone

On top, Fat Joe called Vita and Lil Mo “dusty bitches.” They were brought by Ja Rule at the event’s stage at some point in the show. After a storm of various comments from all sides, Lil Mo eventually went on TMZ to talk about Fat Joe’s “vile” behavior.

Written by Nikita Serdiuk | IG: @nikitasrdk | Twitter: @nktserdiuk

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Lil Mo Claimed Fat Joe’s Verzuz Battle Comments “Vile”

The Verzuz between Fat Joe and Ja Rule on Tuesday, Sept. 14 hit the fan. The newfound conflict between 50 Cent and Irv Gotti had followed up with Lil Mo and Vita responding to Fat Joe’s comments on social media. Further on, Lil Mo also went to talk with TMZ.

Lil Mo Claimed Fat Joe’s Verzuz Battle Comments “Vile”
Fat Joe & Ja Rule/Source: Billboard

The context was a skirmish between Fat Joe and Ja Rule. During the Verzuz, Ja Rule suggested Fat Joe had to “bring Remy to save you” and claimed it “fucking pathetic.” In response, Fat Joe called Ja Rule’s special guests “dusty bitches” and assumed Ja Rule “had to go to the crack house to find them bitches (Lil Mo and Vita).”

The Social Media Response(s)

On Wednesday, both Vita and Lil Mo posted on social media responding to Fat Joe’s comments. Vita tagged Fat Joe’s profile and wrote that she “was wondering why U was apologizing to me last night N (Ja Rule).” She then asked in the text, “what you think Mo (Lil Mo) (Fat Joe) vs Rule or was it (Fat Joe) vs The Ladies.” Meanwhile, Lil Mo reminded Fat Joe that she’s “Not A #Bxtch nor am I Dusty!!! #StreetCODE Women and Children is off limits.”

Fat Joe eventually responded to both artists with Tweet comments on Instagram. Those comments included, “I’m super sorry I love you and vida I said sorry to your face before I left the building and to Vida I was caught in the moment and I’m super sorry God bless.” Lil Mo and Fat Joe also shared love, while Lil Mo even supposedly rewrote the initial confronting comment at her post to “What a beautiful night at the GARDEN everyone gave me my FLOWERS. NO MORE NEGATIVITY. It’s ONLY UP from here.”

However, on Thursday, Sept. 16, TMZ posted an article with Lil Mo’s interview. She called Fat Joe’s comments “vile” and “disrespectful.” At the end of the video, Lil Mo concluded that ‘”I never got a formal apology. You can’t tell me how I’m supposed to feel. I’m not looking for no Birkin bag but I know how the streets work. I don’t want it to go that way.”

Written by Nikita Serdiuk | IG: @nikitasrdk | Twitter: @nktserdiuk