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Rihanna’s Super Bowl Performance Pays Off Big: $97,000 In Just Three Days

Super Bowl Performance By Rihanna Brings In $97k
Rihanna during her 2023 Super Bowl performance. Image source: Ezra Shaw/Getty Images.

At the Super Bowl, Rihanna made her first live appearance in five years while pregnant. It was a powerful statement of feminine strength and resilience, as she showed that women could be successful and excel even while carrying a child. During her setlist for the evening, she performed various songs spanning her two-decade career.

To establish how much popularity Rihanna’s music has regained over the past three days, Japanese casino comparison site Japan-101 tracked Spotify plays of each song performed during the Superbowl halftime show.

In the three days following the Superbowl halftime show, Rihanna earned the following number of plays and royalties:

1. “Umbrella” – 4.4 million plays earning $17,780.60

“Umbrella” was one of the most successful songs on Rihanna’s album Good Girl Gone Bad, which she released in 2007 at 19 years old. Despite being the oldest song on the list, this track has had the most outstanding revival in three days thanks to the Super Bowl show, earning Rihanna a healthy $17,780.60.

2. “We Found Love” – 3.8 million plays earning $15,227.01

In 2011, this “Talk that Talk” hit featuring Scottish DJ and record producer Calvin Harris debuted at the London O2 and remained at the top of the US Billboard Hot 100 for ten consecutive weeks. “We Found Love” became a worldwide success, topping the charts in 24 countries and reaching the top 10 in nine other countries.

Also, the song was critically acclaimed and won a Grammy Award for Best Short Form Music Video at the 55th Annual Grammy Awards. The track’s accompanying music video was directed by Melina Matsoukas and has since become an iconic visual for the song. With 3.8 million listens in the last three days, the song is the second most popular on Rihanna’s Superbowl setlist.

3. “Diamonds” – 3.5 million plays earning $14,160.66

In 2012, Rihanna released this song as part of her Unapologetic album. The single “Diamonds” reached the top of the charts in over twenty countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. The Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) certified this track seven times platinum, while the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) certified it three times platinum. Additionally, the song has been played over 3.5 million times on Spotify in the last three days, generating Rihanna $14,160.66 in royalties.

4. “Only Girl (In the World)” – 2.9 million plays earning $11,800.12

This track made history as it is the first time an album’s lead single has made the top of the charts after its second single; in this case, “What’s My Name” has surpassed “Only Girl (In The World). Spotify royalties have reached $11,800.12 from the track’s 2.9 million plays over the last three days.

5. “Where Have You Been” – 2.3 million plays earning $9,302.04

Over 2.3 million people have listened to this techno house track since Rihanna performed it for the Super Bowl halftime show. In just three days, Rihanna earned $9,302.04 due to the song’s increased popularity.

6. “Work” – 2 million plays earning $8,203.48

After Rihanna’s performance of “Work” at the 2023 Super Bowl halftime show, the song experienced a resurgence in popularity. It was streamed over 2 million times on Spotify in the following three days, earning Rihanna $8,203.48 in royalties.

7. “Rude Boy” – 1.8 million earning $7,523.72

After Rihanna’s Super Bowl performance, her song “Rude Boy” hit 1.8 million times, earning her $7,523.72 in royalties.

8. “B**ch Better Have My Money” – 1.6 million plays earning $6,753.48

During her Super Bowl halftime show performance, Rihanna sang her song “B**ch Better Have My Money” to the crowd’s delight. The track was streamed 1.6 million times in three days, generating $6,753.48 in royalties.

9. “Pour It Up” – 1.5 million plays earning $6,351.74

She also sang “Pour It Up” at the Super Bowl, which derived 1.5 million Spotify streams and $6,351.74 in royalties.

TOTAL ROYALTIES: $97,102.85

Commentary By Japan-101’s Spokesperson

Commenting on the findings, a representative from Japan-101 stated:

“It is truly wonderful to see Rihanna performing live again after a five-year break. The Superbowl halftime show was a great comeback opportunity for Rihanna; this is very much reflected in the increase in her music plays on Spotify. Having not been paid for her Superbowl performance, as is normal procedure, Rihanna will have gained great exposure, driving traffic for more listeners.”

What Is Japan-101?

Japanese game enthusiasts run Japan-101, a casino comparison website with detailed information about various casino sites and games. This website provides casino news and information, making it an excellent resource for anyone interested in this industry.

Written by Nikiya Biggs | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest

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Spotify/Gimlet Podcast: Conviction Season 4 “The Conviction of Max B”

The Conviction of Max B Is Available On Spotify
Image Source: Spotify.

As the medium of modern media continues to evolve, it is fantastic to see how many different channels are available to tell stories. A new Spotify/Gimlet podcast, “The Conviction of Max B,” launched yesterday, also followed by a group release of all five episodes on Spotify. “Conviction” is Gimlet’s fourth investigative reporting season, featuring a brand new story each season.

The season opener of Conviction highlights Max B, a Harlem rapper who is just beginning to make his mark on the music scene. One night, he discovers a bag containing cash in an empty hotel room and takes advantage of the situation. The task would also not require much effort – go in, grab the money, and leave without hurting anyone. However, it does not proceed in this manner. Ultimately, chaos, kidnapping, and the death of a person are the results.

There are many interesting elements to the story, such as a rapper who risks everything to get a bag of cash, a robbery that went wrong, a chaotic trial, and a sentence that raises the question of who the justice system benefits and who it harms. Moreover, the podcast anthology series “Conviction” explores the intersection of crime and justice. Each story focuses on a different case and asks: For whom does the justice system work, and also for whom does it oppose? It seems bizarre that some people committed more severe crimes yet received shorter sentences. Seems unjust!

Each episode description of “The Conviction of Max B” follows.

All Of “The Conviction of Max B” Episodes:

●     Episode 1: Who’s 40 Grand Not Tempting To?

○     Episode Description: Max B is a well-known rapper in Harlem. That is, until one night changes everything.

●     Episode 2: Bring the Money

○     Episode Description: Max cooked up an easy score — in and out, no one gets hurt. But it doesn’t go down that way.

●     Episode 3: Never Wanna Go Back

○     Episode Description: As the police pursue Max B, time is running out.

●     Episode 4: Hell Hath No Fury

○     Episode Description: Max B goes to trial with his lawyer, Gerry Saluti, by his side. Within the courtroom, things are about to take a dark turn.

●     Episode 5: 75 in the Can

○     Episode Description: Max B’s new legal team attempts to secure his release from his 75-year sentence using a rarely effective strategy. But it is Max’s best chance unless he wishes to die in prison.

With a five-episode podcast, Brandon ‘Jinx’ Jenkins, a respected journalist, TV host, and award-winning podcast host takes listeners through the shambles that left a man dead on the night of the crime to Max B’s memorable trial in which 75 years in prison was imposed on him. This series aims to determine why someone with such potential and aptitude would risk everything in exchange for a bag of money.

Introduction To Host Brandon ‘Jinx’ Jenkins

Brandon ‘Jinx’ Jenkins grew up in New Jersey and graduated from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia. Besides being a highly respected journalist, TV host, podcast host, writer, photographer, DJ, and multi-media artist, Brandon worked for Translation ad agency, Decon creative agency, Mass Appeal Magazine, Complex Networks, and Revolt Network. In addition, he has served as a host on Revolt’s State Of The Culture and MSG Network’s Conference Room C.

French Montana Confirms Max B Will Be Coming Home Soon

In a tweet on Jan. 9, French Montana disclosed that Max B would be released from prison in April, as he promoted Max’s new “Lemonade” video from his latest mixtape, Coke Boys 6.

“MY BROTHER WAS FACING 75 YEARS,” Montana said. “HE TOLD ME TO TELL YALL HE ‘LL BE HOME IN APRIL, SILVER SURFER.” 

A botched robbery in New Jersey in 2006 resulted in Max facing 75-year imprisonment for criminal charges such as armed robbery, kidnapping, aggravated assault, and felony murder. However, it is a matter of good fortune that Max, whose real name is Charley Wingate, was able to have his sentence reduced to 20 years in 2016. Also, in 2019, his sentence decreased again to 12 years.

Listen to the “The Conviction of Max B” trailer below! Check out the five episodes here: 

Written by Nikiya Biggs | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest 

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January’s Top 20 Most Popular Workout Tracks On Spotify

Spotify Top 20 Popular Workout Tracks For January
Image source: Spotify/Filmaffinity/Spotify/YouTube.

It is only the beginning of the new year, yet we are already finding out which tunes are best to listen to in the gym. A recent study uses a Spotify analysis to reveal which tracks are best for re-energizing your workout in January. Research conducted by fitness experts Fitness Volt analyzed over 9,353 tracks from Spotify’s most popular gym and workout playlists in January to then pinpoint the most popular songs, giving rise to the ultimate Top 20 gym playlist.

Spotify’s Top 3 Workout Songs For January

“Do It To It” by Cherish, the R&B girl group, was a major hit in 2006.

However, DJ ACRAZE also added his own spin by sampling the original song for a popular song called “Do It To It,” which he released in 2021. The song is number one in January’s category of best workout songs. In addition, seven playlists contain this record, making it the best-suited track. Due to its 125 BPM tempo, the song is an excellent choice for cardio exercises.

The next track on the playlist is Eminem’s “Till I Collapse,” which also appeared on seven playlists and is suitable for a strenuous workout due to its high BPM of 171.

“Closer” by The Chainsmokers, which appeared on six workout playlists, was the third most famous track on Spotify’s Top 20.

Families spend quality time together during the holiday season and indulge in various delicious foods, which can cause one to gain a few pounds. Since many people are heading back to their usual workout routines and will be trying to rev up their bodies after the festive season, it is no surprise that upbeat songs frequently appear on January playlists.

Additionally, some artists appear on gym playlists more frequently than others. Lizzo is among the most famous artists, with tracks like “Fitness,” “Water Me,” “Grrls,” and “Truth Hurts.” Several other artists also repeatedly appeared across Spotify’s analyzed playlists, including Kanye West, Big Sean, Flo Rida, Rihanna, and Tiesto.

Spotify’s Other Top Workout Songs For January

4. The Motto by Tiesto

5. Elated by January’s Blessing

6. Where Are You Now by Lost Frequencies

 7. INDUSTRY BABY by Lil Nas X

 8. POWER by Kanye West

9. Shivers by Ed Sheeran

10. The Box by Roddy Rich

11. Can’t Hold Us, Macklemore

12. Stronger by Kanye West

13. Numb/Encore by Jay-Z

14. Acapulo by Jason Derulo

15. Abcdefu by GAYLE

16. Levitating by Dua Lipa

17. We Own It by 2 Chainz

18. Boom Boom Pow by Zafrir

19. HERO A by Yuki Hayashi

20. Feels Like Summer by Weezer

New Year, More Gym Attendees

Furthermore, the gym will be flooded with new gym-goers who have resolved to exercise as part of their New Year’s resolution and will listen to more motivating music to stay in shape. According to Google Trends, searches for ‘gym memberships’ have increased 71% since December, suggesting Americans are anxious to resume physical activity.

A spokesperson at Fitness Volt then commented on the findings, saying: “Many gym-goers will find it hard to motivate themselves to get back to working out after some time away from the gym.”

Exercise Tips For Getting The Most Out Of Your Workout

The spokesperson also claims that listening to high-tempo music is one of the most effective ways of amplifying our performance. It stimulates the body’s adrenal glands, increasing motivation.

In preparation for your workout, it is recommended that you create a playlist of slower tracks that will help warm you up and cool you down afterward. Ensure you stretch before starting a workout, as it may cause you to pull a muscle. Also, consider wearing noise-canceling headphones to make the experience more enjoyable.

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Spotify Presents Up-And-Coming Rapper, Doechii As The Latest RADAR US Artist

emerging rapper doechii

One of Spotify’s most remarkable contributions is providing artists with the tools they need to achieve their career goals. On Oct. 13, Spotify launched the latest installment of its RADAR US campaign featuring emerging rapper and current headline maker, Doechii.

Emerging Rapper Doechii Exhibits Versatility In Her Music

According to the “Persuasive” rapper, her sound is “alternative.” However, her unique ability to create songs that cross over genres makes her stand out. An individual’s versatility opens the door for a broader audience to gain an interest in their craft. As a Tampa native with this unique talent, she has placed herself on an upward trajectory to stardom and has been named Spotify’s newest RADAR US artist.

While developing into a star, Doechii is the latest artist to be named as part of Spotify’s program that celebrates and supports emerging artists at all stages of their careers.

The majority of people have had a dream in life. We need to give those who have been putting in significant effort a little push toward their wishes.

RADAR and Other Programs: Background

RADAR is one of Spotify’s most important initiatives for promoting and supporting emerging artists. It has assisted in launching many of today’s most promising artists. In addition, the program has expanded its fan base and attained superstar status through effective marketing, content, and editorial support.

A strong commitment by Spotify to support all levels of artists has resulted in the placement of the viral singer “Yucky Blucky Fruitcake” in its RADAR US program.

Also, as part of Spotify’s Island’s Planet Hip-Hop, emerging rapper, Doechii collaborated with the portal earlier this month to create a unique fan experience. It included a virtual avatar and virtual merchandise that reflected her persona as an artist.

Recognition and Appreciation

In a statement, Spotify’s Head of Urban Music and Creative Director, Carl Chery, expressed his appreciation and support for the up-and-coming rapper.

“We’ve been championing Doechii since her breakthrough single ‘Yucky Blucky Fruitcake’ and was featured in our Feelin’ Myself campaign in the summer of 2021,” Chery said. “It’s been exciting to watch her grow from a relatively unknown genre-bender to a burgeoning multifaceted star. Doechii’s future is boundless. We’re thrilled to have her as part of the RADAR program.”

Rapper Doechii Is On The Verge Of Success

Furthermore, with songs like “Feeling Myself” and “Frequency,” Doechii has become a breakout star on Spotify. Her breakout single “Yucky Blucky Fruitcake” has been streamed over 37 million times on Spotify.

However, in 2022, Doechii’s career has gained even more significant momentum. The 24-year-old rapper signed with Top Dawg Entertainment, one of the most recognizable labels in the industry. In addition, this label is responsible for producing notable artists such as Kendrick Lamar, ScHoolboy Q, and SZA.

Above all, TDE has a roster of several talented artists. Collaborating with more famous artists from the label could further advance Doechii’s career. Check out a short video performance of “This B*tch Matters” by Doechii below.

Written by Nikiya Biggs | Instagram: @competent_journalist | Twitter: @BiggsNikiya

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The Best Artists To Listen To While Exercising

Workout Music: Artists To Listen To While Exercising
Far upper lefthand corner is DaBaby, far upper righthand corner is Alesso, lower left hand corner is Tiesto, and lower right hand corner is Lil Baby. Image source: The U.S. Sun/ALDA/Just Jared/Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP.

Exercise is more enjoyable when performed to music that motivates and puts one’s mind in a positive frame. Fitness Volt analyzed which artists were featured most frequently on Spotify’s most listened workout playlists.

Fitness Volt is an online fitness and nutrition resource dedicated to strength sports. It aims to provide readers with proven knowledge and practices concerning the latest wellness and nutritional trends.

Which Artist Is Currently At The Top Of The Most Listened-To Artists On The Workout Playlists?

The new study shows that Dutch DJ Tiesto dominates the list of artists most often listened to while exercising in the United States. The scientists ranked Tiësto as the most famous artist. The appeal of certain artists contributes to their higher profile and status.

Furthermore, the analysis indicated that Tiësto featured 51 times in conjunction with commonly heard songs, including “Hot In It” and “The Motto.”

A second-place finisher in the analysis is Canadian rapper Drake. His songs “Massive” and “Chicago Freestyle” were featured 49 times.

Moreover, 41 times are featured in Spotify’s workout playlists for French DJ David Guetta. He is third in the U.S. for workout music.

There Is A High Concentration Of DJs On The List

The music created by DJs is very popular with the masses.

English DJ Joel Corry, who has appeared 30 times on the site, took fourth place. One of his most frequently played songs is” ‘What Would You Do?'” which appears eight times on the list, along with “OUT OUT” (feat. Charli XCX & Saweetie).

Furthermore, Swedish DJ Alesso is fifth on the list of most popular workout playlists in the United States. One of the most famous songs features is “Words” (featuring Zara Larsson).

Hip-Hop Artists Are Receiving High Praise

As the list continues, Jack Harlow, the rapper behind the song “Nail Tech,” takes sixth place. Harlow has established a strong presence in the music industry since he entered the scene in 2020. In addition to his “Dua Lipa” song being featured six times, a remix of “WHATS POPPIN” (featuring DaBaby, Tory Lanez, and Lil Wayne) has also been featured six times.

With 25 appearances in workout playlists, American rapper Lil Baby is seventh in the ranks. “Detox” and “Right On” are two of his most famous songs.

A joint eighth place goes to Swedish House Mafia and “BOP” rapper DaBaby, each appearing 24 times in the playlists.

More DJs

In addition, there are 22 features by Dutch DJ Armin van Buuren, ranked ninth on the list. In terms of popularity, “One More Time” and “No Fun” were the most popular songs.

For someone who loves music, listening to music produced by DJs holds a certain appeal. There is no doubt that these songs fall under the workout playlist category due to their melody, beats, tempo, and rhythm.

Last but not least, Brazilian DJ Alok ranks tenth, appearing on Spotify’s most favorite workout playlists 21 times.

Quote On Workout Music From A Fitness Volt Spokesperson

Notably, a spokesperson for Fitness Volt speaks on the importance of listening to music while exercising. Also, they argue that the public closely associates certain artists with working out. 

“Music plays a vital part in many people’s workout regime, with studies having shown it helps to distract from pain, elevates mood, and increases stamina. The similarities between the most played artists reveal that there are certain genres and artists that are particularly popular to accompany exercise.”

“The study shows which artists people choose to listen to for their workout, crowning rappers, DJs and electro musicians the most favoured.”

You can find all the information you need about maintaining a healthy and fulfilling life at fitnessvolt.com.

Written by Nikiya Biggs | Twitter: @BiggsNikiya | Instagram: @ngv6236

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Roblox launches New Spotify Island “Planet Hip-Hop” for hip-hop Consumers!

planet hip-hop
Photo Source: Spotify

Spotify released its virtual Island on Roblox about four months ago, making it the first music streaming platform to have spot in the game. Today, September 21st, Spotify launches Planet Hip-Hop, a new space-themed destination on Roblox. Planet Hip-Hop is live now in Roblox, and the goal is to give the younger generation of hip-hop fans a new way to connect with their favorite artists.

Planet Hip-Hop will include an abundance of exciting features!

According to TechCrunch, the new destination features a bright cityscape on top of an upside-down silver pyramid. The planet is surrounded by red planet rings along with floating meteors, all while giving a futuristic look. When users explore Planet Hip-Hop, they are able to collect exclusive virtual merchandise. They can also use the “Speed Shop” to customize vehicles, virtually dance, and create beats powered by Soundtrap, and more.

planet hip hop
Spotifys newest space-themed island, Planet Hip-Hop.

Senior Art Director at Spotify, Steven Conaway, told press, “We wanted to create a space inspired by the newest era of hip hop, exploring how the current generation of artists and fans are redefining what the genre looks like and sounds like.” He continued that the younger generation of hip-hop artists are known to have an “internet tech sound.” Conaway also referenced young artists like Doechii, Yeat, and Trippie Redd, who are all in their early 20s.

In Planet Hip-Hop, players will be able to virtually walk on buildings and float around as it is intended to be a low-gravity environment. They are also able to swim with alligators, hop on lily pads, and dive underwater. As seen in Spotify Island’s K-pop-themed world, K-Park, there are many new elements and Easter eggs. Just like K-Park, users must enter an underground portal to visit an artist’s fan experience. Edward Yeung, the Associate Creative Director at Spotify says players will also be able to drive around the planet’s rings.

Planet hip-hop
Planet Hip-Hop will include various new features on Roblox.

In time, Spotify will be releasing new features for its newest Island in the game. Keep up with FM Hip-Hop for more Hip-Hop related news!

 

Stephanie Kinberg

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Kodak Black Details Commonalities & Relationship With Kendrick Lamar

Image Source: Getty Images
Image Source: Getty Images

During an interview with Spotify at Rolling Loud Miami last month, Kodak Black gave some insightful details about his relationship with the Compton legend Kendrick Lamar. They collaborated for the song “Silent Hill” off Kendrick’s latest album “Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers” which dropped this year. Kodak is also featured on interludes of other tracks from the high-selling 2022 release. “Me and him, we can talk and he understand me beyond the internet theories,” was a key statement Kodak shared with the interviewer. Checkout a clip of his Spotify interview at Rolling Loud Miami below:

 

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Kodak & Kendrick’s Shared Commonalities

The two artists have quite a few things in common despite what many elitist fans from each fanbase may imagine. Even Kodak Black acknowledged it himself, “Me and Kendrick, we got a lot of little things in common that people probably don’t wanna understand.” A commonly overlooked example is that both artists are authentically from the streets, despite having unique and different lifestyles/viewpoints. He said, “You know, Kendrick from the streets for real, too. I fuck with that boy, I got a lot of love for him.” Additionally, both rappers are active Hebrew Israelites and have the astrological sign of Gemini. Regardless of any similarities and differences, their song Silent Hill is still one of the best songs this year:

 

More Songs From Both Rappers Together

Based on what Kodak shared in the interview and how highly Kendrick speaks of Kodak, their relationship does seem more genuine than other industry connections. I’d also add that stylistically, Kodak might even sound better alongside Kendrick’s cousin Baby Keem instead. Would you want another song from both mainstream rappers whether it’s for either of their catalogs? Although, Kendrick may not agree with me labeling the star as mainstream anymore. Read more of FM Hip-Hop’s featured articles today.

 

Written by: Oryah Brown | Instagram: @oryah.wav

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A Day in Ghana With Kendrick Lamar Documentary Review

kendrick lamar
via YOUTUBE spotify "A Day in Ghana With Kendrick Lamar"

Kendrick Lamar released a four-minute documentary in collaboration with Spotify this past week (Jun. 17). What can fans expect?

Meeting Kendrick and Accra

We open with several rapid shots of Ghanaians living their everyday lives. Instantly, Kendrick presents his thesis; beautiful black people. This is an extremely persistent theme in Kendrick’s art, from his humble first mixtape Youngest Head Nigga in Charge (Hub City Threat: Minor of the Year), to his Grammy award-winning damn. The camera sets on Kendrick watching some boys box in the street, as he sets the stage.

“First time in Ghana,” he says, camera looming over his head.

The setting is Accra, Ghana. In his hometown of Compton, Kendrick would probably be dodging phone cameras and endless crowds. But In Accra, the 35-year-old can casually play some foosball outside.

“I can’t even tell you what day it is, I just be in the moment.”

The future of skating

Lamar’s ‘Crown’ echoes in the back while the camera pans across Freedom Skate Park. Skating has become a bit of a phenomenon with kids in Ghana recently. Skaters like Joshua Odamtten have launched the sport into popularity in the small nation. Now, Ghanaian boys and girls are going viral for their mainly self-taught tricks.

Freedom Skate Park is a former hospital repurposed for the youth of the community. This safe haven for Accra was developed by Skate Nation and Surf Ghana, and erected in Virgil Abloh’s honor. Abloh first reached out personally to Skate Nation after seeing them in Vogue Magazine. Immediately, the designer and skate crew saw eye to eye and began collaborating on the logo, brand identity, and ramp design of Freedom Skate Park.

A large portrait stands brightly in Freedom Skate Park to honor the entrepreneur, who tragically passed from cardiac angiosarcoma in November last year.

“How it makes them feel to be over here. Virgil, what he means to them you know, as far as letting them have this creative space for them to enjoy themselves. They’re special.” Kendrick explained upon being asked what he speaks to the East African youth about.

Getting some help

The doc quickly transitions to a more personal perspective, as the focus becomes Kendrick’s latest album Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers. In his fifth studio album, Kendrick explores the topic of mental health amongst his black male peers and the rejection of traditional therapy. This reflects his real experiences as the ‘DNA’ rapper just recently began unlearning the “black men don’t need therapy” trope.

“One of my favorite lines in the album is where’ll say you really need to go to therapy. And I say real niggas don’t go to therapy.” the West Coast artist says with a laugh. The image of Kendrick and a group of friends on the beach underlies this narrative of black men taking the steps to self-healing.

“Cause that’s how niggas feel. You know what I’m saying we grew up where our parents don’t know about that our grandparents don’t know about that. “ Kendrick explained.

“To challenge myself to go to therapy, that’s like a whole new step in a whole new generation. That’s growth.”

Show don’t tell

The visuals are the star of this show. Of course, Kendrick’s narrations and the accompanying music do their part. However, it’s the kids playing soccer, houses stacked by the brim, and friends smiling on the beach, that make ‘A Day in Ghana with Kendrick Lamar’ truly special. Getting an intimate look into a West African country outside of the usual lens of poverty is extremely refreshing.

This doc contains no sad violin music or starving bodies. Ghana specifically and purposefully isn’t portrayed as a place to feel pity for. ‘A Day in Ghana with Kendrick Lamar’ is a love letter to black adversities and experiences. Whether those experiences are a kid learning to skateboard in Accra, or a grown man in California going to therapy for the first time, they’re equally rich and valid. This is particularly reinforced through the doc’s final words and Kendrick’s ‘Duckworth’ serving as an epilogue soundtrack.

“Everything we do out here, everything that we say everything that’s been done, it’s all a representation of all of us.”

Although the video is admittedly short, it provides that signature Kendrick authenticity. It’s storytelling at its most simple, and it’s effective.

Watch for yourself and see what you think of ‘A Day in Ghana with Kendrick Lamar’.

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Dreema Carrington|IG: @dr3amgirl79|Twitter: @notdreema

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Jamie Foxx Tells Salacious Tale of a Prominent Actress Doing Cocaine

Everyone who knows Jamie Foxx knows he’s a man of many talents. One of those talents is in telling a good story. On a recent episode of R&B Money, Foxx had a very salacious story to convey.

Jamie’s Salacious But Humorous Tale

According to Foxx, he was once in a hotel room partying with a very high-profile actress. Although nothing is particularly interesting about partying or rubbing elbows with prominent stars, Foxx says it was an encounter he didn’t forget. It was so unforgettable that he couldn’t stop laughing.

Foxx conveyed that this high-profile actress, whom was in the hotel room with him at the time, had no clue who he was the entire night. In fact, she mistook him for Rick Fox, and at that point he lost it.  In Jamie’s words.

“She thought I was Rick Fox I was like, ‘I’m not light skin with good hair like this n***a.'”

So obviously something was off, and it was.

Jamie Spills a Little More Tea

Jamie attributes the case of mistaken identity to one thing in particular, cocaine. Foxx says this well-known actress was indeed doing cocaine, and it had her all messed up. He relayed

“She does the cocaine, she says, ‘I’m a bad mother,’ and then she goes, ‘Wow, I didn’t think I would be in this room doing cocaine with Rick Fox.”

By now, inquiring minds want to know who this could be.

Keeping it Hush

Well, Foxx is keeping that part well under wraps. One thing he doesn’t do is give names. We can assume it’s someone with a pretty significant presence in the industry from his account. And Foxx assured his listeners you could take his word to the bank. In his words,

“I wasn’t, I wasn’t, I was not doing it. I don’t do that because of my religious beliefs.”

If you’re wondering, he’s talking about cocaine. So in other words, his head was clear, and he was fully aware of what was going on in that hotel room.

The Takeaway

We don’t know a lot about those who have climbed the ladder of success. And given the number of skeletons that have fallen out of some people’s closets, some things it’s best we don’t know. Of course, if Jamie says it happened, we take his word for it. But for now, we’re enjoying the highlights of Foxx’s many adventures. More importantly, we’re sending out thanks for the development of another outlet to highlight our culture.

For those who want to check it out R&B Money can be found on spotify an experience that is noted to “Highlight everything from Marvin Gaye to Pink Sweat$”

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Written by Renae Richardson

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Kanye West’s “Stronger” Hits 1 Billion Spotify Streams

1 billion streams of "Stronger"

Ye has been in the game for a long time now. His 2007 hit, “Stronger”, has obtained 1 billion views over the years. The song might be over a decade old, but that does not mean that it is not still enjoyable.

“Stronger” is recognized as the third most popular exercise song on Spotify. This is due to two things. The first is from the Daft Punk sample from their song “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” in the background vocals singing about constant improvement. This fits with the sub-genre of exercise music, which is generally about self-improvement. The other thing that it does is have a consistent beat, which is essential for any music with the purpose of exercising to.

History of “Stronger”

The song is from Ye’s third studio album, “Graduation”. On top of having 1 billion views, it also is the first of Ye’s songs to get an RIAA Diamond Certification, from October of last year. In order for a song to get RIAA Diamond certified, it needs to have sold over 10 million units. There are some semantics on what defines a unit sold, but it doesn’t really matter. Not when the streams on Spotify alone are 1 billion.

The song has always been beloved. In 2008, at the 50th Grammy Awards ceremony, it won Best Rap Solo Performance. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 shortly after it was released. This was Ye’s third number 1 single. It topped the charts in  Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The song was also in the top 10 of six other countries, as well.

1 billion views is a massive achievement for Ye. Especially since most of the top songs on the platform are from 2014 onwards, with only a couple exceptions. Those exceptions are Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” from the 70’s, and some songs from the 2000’s.

Written by Justin Acosta

Twitter: @hahalacka