Quavo and Offset performing at the 2023 BET Awards. Image source: MICHAEL TRAN, AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES.
Quavo and Offset have settled their beef and made it a statement at The BET Awards. The pair honored their late group member, Takeoff, at the award show. Hip-hop was proud and ecstatic to be in that room on June 25th. However, that does not mean new music is coming soon.
The Iconic Performance: Quavo & Offset’s Reunion
Fans were going crazy on Twitter about the iconic performance. Tweets reminisced about the late rapper and how missed he will be. The performance started off with Unc & Phew’s “Hotel Lobby,” with a spotlight shining in the middle of Offset and Quavo for Takeoff as a big image of the third member of Migos was on the screen. The “Soul Plane” rapper’s vocals played throughout the surprise set.
The pair rapped Takeoff’s verse and danced around the spotlight, representing the third Migos. The track “Bad & Boujee” followed after 2/3 of Migos pointed to the screen, which showed a rocket representing Takeoff. Takeoff’s only solo album was called “The Last Rocket,” and Quavo’s next album will be called “Rocket Power.” It was the first time the surviving members of Migos performed since Kirsnick Khari Ball’s passing.
Grammy’s Incident Between Quavo & Offset
According to TMZ, Offset and Quavo have been cordial for months now. These two have come a very far way compared to the Grammys fiasco earlier this year. The pair had to give a tribute at the 65th Grammy Awards that reportedly resulted in a backstage fight. Quavo, Takeoff’s uncle, allegedly instigated the fight during the In Memoriam part of the show.
The Future
The BET show was to honor Takeoff, not set as a marketing ploy for new music from the duo. There are also questions surrounding how they would move further musically. Takeoff was not only an important part of the Migos, but he was also family. So, what does the future hold for a potential new group name if Offset and Quavo carry on together musically… we don’t know?
Migos: Quavo (left), Offset (middle), and the late Takeoff (right). Image source: Matt Salacuse.
There’s a fresh study out there that puts the spotlight on which music artists Americans can’t stop Googling! And the results are pretty surprising! The folks at Guitar Aficionado, a site full of guitar enthusiasts, decided to dive into Spotify streaming data. They wanted to figure out who snagged the top spots as the most streamed artists in the US over the past year. They even went the extra mile and investigated which superstars were the most searched for in each American state. Let’s check out who they discovered.
1. Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift. Credit: Getty Images for The Recording Academy
First on the list is Taylor Swift, who’s rocking the charts in 31 states! This pop sensation has grasped the hearts of fans from Illinois to Ohio, Michigan to her beloved home state of Pennsylvania. While slaying stages on her epic ‘Eras’ tour, Taylor also dominates the internet as the most searched artist nationwide. Can you believe it? 2.43 million searches per month across America! It seems like everyone wants a piece of Taylor’s magic. It’s no wonder she’s ruling the music scene with such flair and popularity.
2. Rihanna
Rihanna. Credit: Christopher Polk
In the thrilling world of artist popularity, Rihanna stands confidently in second place. The Barbadian-born singer has stolen the spotlight as the most searched artist in not one, not two, but seven glorious states across the United States. With an average of 2.18 million searches per month, Rihanna is a force to be reckoned with in the realm of online fascination. The lucky states that bow down to the queen of searches are New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Louisiana, Maryland, and North and South Carolina. With her under the spotlight, you know her fans are clicking those keyboards and typing away!
So, next time you find yourself humming along to one of Rihanna’s catchy tunes (Lift Me Up or We Found Love) or admiring one of her breathtaking fashion choices, recall the journey that took her to this point in her life.
3. Bad Bunny & Elvis Presley
In moving on to the third spot, we will discuss the musical marvels that have gained popularity across the United States through rap and rock ‘n’ roll.
First up, we have Puerto Rican rapper Bad Bunny. Bad Bunny has carved his path to stardom, conquering the souls of his native Puerto Rico and the vast territories of California, Texas, Nevada, and Florida. With his bouncy beats and energetic stage presence, it is easy to see why he has become the talk of the town.
Bad Bunny. Credit: GC Images
Fans groove to Bad Bunny’s hits, his music pulsating through the bustling streets of Los Angeles and the lively nightclubs of Miami. What an exciting experience! But can you blame fans for searching the internet to see their favorite bunny? It’s an experience that leaves you wondering, “What’s the secret ingredient in this artist’s magical mix?”
At the other end of the musical spectrum, we find the legendary figure of Elvis Presley. With his irrefutable groundbreaking contributions to rock and roll, Elvis Presley has effortlessly commanded the spotlight, solidifying his status as an icon that transcends generations. From his humble beginnings in Tupelo, Mississippi, to his meteoric rise to fame, Elvis has left an everlasting impression on the music industry.
Elvis Presley. Credit: RB//GETTY IMAGES
Imagine the rolling hills of Arkansas echoing with the sounds of “Blue Suede Shoes,” fans in Kansas swaying to the rhythm of “Jailhouse Rock,” and New Mexico’s desert air throbbing with the energy of “Suspicious Minds.” No wonder Elvis continues to rule even after all these years.
Close Encounter: The Narrow Gap Between Bad Bunny And Elvis Presley
Now, let’s compare the numbers. Over the past year, Bad Bunny has been the subject of approximately 1.75 million searches per month across the nation. A staggering figure, no doubt! However, don’t underestimate the allure of the King. Elvis Presley outshines Bad Bunny in this department, garnering 1.94 million monthly searches. It’s a close call, but the King of Rock ‘N’ Roll still manages to hold his ground. This proves that his legacy continues to live on today.
4. Takeoff
Takeoff. Credit: STEVE GRANITZ/WIREIMAGE
Stop everything you’re doing, take your hats off, and let’s give it up for late rapper Takeoff, who’s snatching the fourth spot! Born and bred in the hip-hop hotbed of Georgia, this dynamo was a solo success and one-third of the chart-topping hip-hop trio, Migos.
Migos (Takeoff, Quavo, and Offset). Credit: Chad Batka for The New York Times
Takeoff had fans across the country going wild with excitement, especially in his home states of Alabama and Georgia. We’re talking serious dedication here, folks! In fact, he’s racking up an astonishing average of 1.4 million monthly searches in the US alone. That’s more searches than you can count in a lifetime! Takeoff’s name has become synonymous with hip-hop greatness. With numbers like that, he’s soaring high into the musical stratosphere!
5. BTS, Drake, and Morgan Wallen
BTS. Credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic
Wrapping up our countdown with a bang, we have a three-way tie between the epic South Korean boyband BTS, chart-topping Canadian rapper Drake, and the viral country singer and songwriter Morgan Wallen. These artists were the talk of the town, each securing the limelight in a different state. BTS conquered Hawaii, Drake ruled Kentucky, and Morgan Wallen claimed the throne in West Virginia. What a mark they’ve made! It takes dedication to remain in the spotlight.
Drake. Credit: WireImage
Considering these artists’ incredible popularity, let us pause for a moment to take notice. Month after month, they receive an overwhelming number of searches across the United States. BTS amassed an average of 1.28 million searches. Meanwhile, Drake, with his ear-worm beats and killer flow, racked up an impressive 1.12 million searches.
Morgan Wallen. Credit: Entertainment Tonight
Not to be outdone, Morgan Wallen, the superstar with a heart of gold, comes in with 1.18 million searches.
Harry Styles: A Run For Stardom
Harry Styles. Credit: Getty Images
While these three superstars stole the show, some notable contenders gave them a run for their money. Former One Direction group member Harry Styles, adored by fans across the globe, made quite a splash as the second most searched artist in 16 states. From the sunny shores of California to the vibrant streets of Illinois and from the scenic landscapes of Colorado to the lively atmosphere of Massachusetts, Styles’ magnetic charm resonates far and wide.
Styles took the music world by storm with his debut self-titled album Harry Styles in 2017. With tracks like “Sign of the Times” and “Kiwi,” he showcased his remarkable vocal range and songwriting prowess, effortlessly blending elements of rock, pop, and soul into a mesmerizing blend. But it wasn’t just his music that captivated audiences; it was his ability to connect on a profound level.
In 2019, he unleashed his second studio album,Fine Line, which proved an even greater triumph. This magnum opus demonstrated his growth as an artist, pushing boundaries with tracks like “Watermelon Sugar” and “Adore You,” while maintaining an authentic and relatable essence that has become his trademark.
With upbeat melodies, reflective lyrics, and an unwavering commitment to artistic integrity, Styles proves he can not be overlooked in the spotlight – he is a fierce competitor.
Shining The Spotlight: Guitar Aficionado’s Spokesperson Dishes On The Top Artists In Each US State
A spokesperson for Guitar Aficionado commented on the findings, saying:
“The popularity of different artists in America reflects the diverse musical interests and preferences of people from all walks of life. It highlights the significance of music in American culture as a form of expression and connection between individuals and communities.”
“Interestingly, Taylor Swift dominates the rankings, solidifying her status as one of the most popular artists ever to come out of the United States.”
“Not only is she the first American artist ever to have the top-selling album of the year five times in the US, she is also the first artist to claim each spot in the top ten Billboard’s Hot 100 Songs, following the release of her latest album ‘Midnights’ in October last year.”
Metro is known for hits such as Migos’ “Bad and Boujee,” The Weeknd’s “Heartless,” Post Malone’s “Congratulations,” Future’s “Mask Off,” 21 Savage’s “Bank Account”, Kanye West’s “Father Stretch My Hands, Pt. 1”, Drake and Future’s “Jumpman”, Drake’s “Child’s Play”, and iLoveMakonnen’s “Tuesday.”
The Atlanta native has spent 18 weeks at No. 1 on the Rap Producers chart.
Metro Boomin and Future. Image source: BERTRAND RINDOFF PETROFF/GETTY IMAGES.
Shamrock Capital Now Owns A Portion Of Metro Boomin, Dr. Dre, And Taylor Swift’s Music Catalog
The hit producer sold a portion of his music catalog publishing rights for nearly $70 million. This is according to Billboard. Metro Boomin, also known as Leland Tyler Wayne, sold the rights to Shamrock Capital.
Shamrock acquired some of Dr. Dre’s catalog for $200 million and Taylor Swift’s first six albums for a whopping $300 million.
The portion Dre sold reportedly earns around $10 million a year.
The music is sparking investors’ interest.
Shamrock Capital: The Business
Shamrock was founded in 1978. On top of the big purchase, the company expanded, creating a $196 million debt fund to loan money to IP owners in entertainment.
It seems they are planning to expand into film, TV, music, video games, and sports rights.
Sophomore Album “Heroes & Villains”
This news is fresh off Metro Boomin’s second album “Heroes & Villains” released Dec 2022, which debuted at the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 chart. This was his second album in a row to hit No. 1 as an artist.
The sophomore album, narrated by Morgan Freeman, featured A$AP Rocky, Young Thug, Future, Gunna, and the late Takeoff makes his first posthumous appearance.
Metro Boomin Will Soon Make Super-Hero Music
Metro Boomin is entering the spider-verse with some new music. He uses his musical powers for the upcoming “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” film.
The film’s writer and producer reportedly spoke about how excited the crew is about him joining the team.
Cardi B in court. Image source: Adam Gray-Pool, Getty.
Cardi B now has a second chance to complete her community service. According to TMZ, the judge gave Cardi until Mar 1 to complete her sentence, which includes 15 days of community service.
A District Attorney also told the news outlet that the female rapper was to have her community service hours done by Jan 17 but has yet to complete any of them.
The Plea Deal
Cardi B’s community service is part of a plea deal. The “Shake It” artist pleaded guilty to a 3rd-degree assault charge with reckless endangerment. She allegedly got her posse together to attack two strip club bartenders, Jade and Baddie Gi, in 2018. Both bartenders got severe injuries, with chairs and bottles thrown at them. This led them both to file a formal investigation. Jade later claimed that Cardi’s been threatening her for months. Jade was allegedly sleeping with Cardi’s husband, Offset. With the incident happening over five years ago, Cardi and Offset have continued showing their love.
Cardi B And Offset Stronger Than Ever
Cardi recently sat down with Jason Lee on his podcast show, where she opened up about her and Offset’s love. After initially filing for divorce in 2020, the Grammy winner spoke about Offset’s full-scale change. “The main thing that I wanted him to stop and everything, he stopped, and he changed, and it showed me that he wanted to change for me.”
In the same interview, Cardi also speaks about how she and Offset discovered the tragic news of Takeoff’s death. She notes that Offset received numerous phone calls and was screaming, shouting, and throwing things. “I smacked him, and I said, ‘Don’t say that. Like, don’t say that!’ And then he [was] just screaming and just throwing things, throwing up, running all over, and I was so scared,” she said. “I was just crying so much. It was terrible.”
Takeoff. Image source: Bryan Steffy, Getty Images for iHeartMedia.
As the prime suspect in Takeoff’s murder got out from jail on bond, more details appear from the fatal night of the artist’s death.
It’s been confirmed that the fatal shooting stemmed from a verbal argument between Quavo and two friends of Micheal Prince: Cameron Johnson and Christopher Watkins. Furthermore, the security footage from the Houston bowling alley and nearby House of Blues heavily implicated DJ Patrick Xavier Clark as the gunman.
In the footage gathered from the crime scene, Clark is allegedly firing rounds in Takeoff’s direction. The Houston DJ subsequently fled to a close by House of Blues before eventually returning to the initial scene. Clark still had a weapon in both videos. Despite this damning evidence, Clark was released on a $1M bond last week. Following his bond, Clark now has to wear an ankle monitor.
The New Details Of Takeoff’s Shooting
In a recent interview, comedian Shawty Shawty claims he’s been in communication with relatives of Takeoff and has new info on the shooting.
“So, they say they had been shooting basketball earlier, and then they got to the bowling alley, and they said there was a dice game,” Shawty began explaining on the Ugly Money podcast. “And they say that Quavo noticed that the dice were not right, and that’s where the argument started.”
Shawty then revealed his perspective on what happened during Takeoff’s murder case, “Quavo—Everybody know Quavo got a mouth. Everybody know Quavo talked junk. I don’t think that was the atmosphere to talk sh*t. You got to respect.”
Also, last week, Quavo released a tribute song to honor his late nephew. “Without You” is a heartfelt confession detailing the Atlanta rapper’s state of mind following the shooting. With nearly 9 million views and counting, Takeoff clearly has an army behind him in the face of an ongoing investigation.
The man charged with the murder of Takeoff has been released from jail on a $1 million bond. This is according to court records. Patrick Clark was accused of killing one-third of the rapper group ‘Migos‘ in Houston, Texas late last year. He is due back in court in a couple of months.
$2 Million Bond Cut In Half
The bond was originally set at $1 million more than what the judge approved. However, Clark’s legal team got him a reduction by half last month. Supposedly arguing the figure was unconstitutional at $2 million because he was unable to afford it.
His attorney said prior to the murder suspect’s family was ready to give away their Houston home to bond Clark out of jail.
Patrick Clark Mugshot | Credit: Houston Police
Clark’s Legal Team Disagrees With Judge
The charged murder suspect’s attorney, Letitia Quinones, said, “although we respect Judge Hill as well as his decision today, we disagree with it and to be honest we’re very surprised by it.”
His lawyer was confident the bond would be reduced to the amount Clark’s legal team argued for at $300,000, after complying with the judge’s bond conditions.
Bond Agreement Requirements
The murder suspect’s bond agreement requires him to comply with GPS monitoring by wearing an ankle monitor.
Tragedy Took Place Last November
The 33-year-old suspect allegedly killed Kirsnick Khari Ball, stage name ‘Takeoff,’ by gunfire outside a private property at a Downtown Houston bowling alley. This tragedy took place last November, and two other people were injured in the process.
Authorities said the 28-year-old rap star was just an innocent bystander to a “lucrative” dice game. Quavo and other men took place in the game as well. But a dispute took place during the game leading to various shots being fired.
Quavo and Takeoff | Image Source: Kevin Winter/Getty Images for Bud Light Super Bowl Music Fest / EA SPORTS BOWL
Takeoff of Migos performs onstage during Global Citizen Live. Image source: Rich Fury, Getty Images for Global Citizen.
As the police continue to investigate the night of Nov 1, the story behind Takeoff’s murder is slowly revealing.
According to a search warrant affidavit filed by Houston police, gunshots rang out in the Texas bowling alley after a verbal argument turned physical.
Takeoff Caught in Crossfire
With several security cameras, interviews, and forensic evidence, we now have a better perspective on what occurred that night. Quavo, also known as Quavious Marshall, initially argued with Michael Prince and his associates, Cameron Johnson and Christopher Watkins. All three men had just finished a game of dice, in which Johnson and Watkins won money, and moved outside to debate the win.
Suddenly, the punches came from both sides. In a matter of seconds, those punches turned into gunshots. Houston Police say bullets hailed from both sides of the argument, with one of the shooters being a friend of Quavo, Willie Bland.
new details in the killing of Takeoff from a search warrant affidavit filed this week:
-both sides allegedly fired shots after a punch was thrown in defense of Quavo
-suspect charged in part bc of fingerprints left on a wine bottle he was holding during the shooting pic.twitter.com/ms51RkK10Q
Although one can clearly see Bland shooting in the bowling alley security footage, it appears he isn’t to blame for Takeoff’s death. The affidavit reads, “the trajectory taken by any bullet fired from his location at the time of any given discharge was not consistent with the injuries sustained to Kirsnick Ball, given Ball’s body positioning throughout the duration of the gunfire.”
Patrick Xavier Clark Identified
According to details in the affidavit, Patrick Clark seemingly murdered Takeoff. Clark can be seen shooting “multiple rounds” in Takeoff’s direction before escaping to a nearby House of Blues restaurant. Eventually, Clark returns to the bowling alley with a semi-automatic firearm in tow and then leaves. The security footage captured all these events.
In videos of the shooting, Clark is holding a wine bottle while shooting rounds. In a second video secured by House of Blues, Clark also leaves the wine bottle unattended and never returns for it.
Of course, the authorities tested the bottle for fingerprints. The prints matched Patrick Clark, further incriminating the Houston DJ. Clark, in addition to Cameron Joshua, was arrested for the murder last week. The two men are now gathering lawyers and preparing to defend themselves in court.
Clearing One’s Name
Following the shooting, Willie Bland agreed to answer Houston police’s questions. Bland says he traveled to Houston with Quavo, Takeoff, and several other friends to visit famed producer Jas Prince. The original plan was a simple basketball game and a party at the local bowling alley. According to Bland, Cameron Johnson and Christopher Watkins had been suspiciously walking around the basketball and dice game, noticeably holding guns. Later, when Quavo starts arguing with the men, Bland is naturally on edge.
Bland claims he threw the first punch toward Joshua after it appeared as if he was reaching for a gun. Immediately after this, gunshots rang out. Apparently, Bland believed Joshua began firing and shot back in response.
What the police confirmed is that Willie Bland is not responsible for Takeoff’s death. When the story first broke, it was a common rumor that a member of Quavos own camp was responsible for the tragedy. Now, police have partly uncovered the sad truth.
Born on 18 June 1994, in Lawrenceville, Georgia, Takeoff embraced fame as a rapper along with his uncle, Quavo, and another family member, Offset. The trio performed under the hip-hop group, Migos, formed in 2008, with their popular single, Versace released in 2013.
“We Can’t Be Destroying Each Other.” “There’s something to live for, something to be here for.”
Having enjoyed stardom for a decade, Takeoff met his tragic end, causing heartache to many in the hip-hop space. And so, fellow rapper, Nas makes it a point of duty to remind people of the need to stop violence and focus on their purpose.
“We’re trying to tell these people out here, man, we’re here for a purpose. We can’t be destroying each other… Look at these little brothers and be like don’t shoot; don’t throw your life away. It ain’t worth it.” Nas said after praying for Takeoff to Rest in peace.
One needs to outgrow some tendencies which may be “cool when you’re growing up, but we gotta learn that we’re here for a purpose, and there is a design that’s out here to make sure we don’t grow, to make sure that we don’t make it,” he said. “And we gotta recognize that there is something in existence that’s trying to stop the youth from the hood from growing into its proper purpose.”
Nas Not Alone in the Anti-violence Advocacy
Joseph Guillermo Jones II, better known as Jim Jones has also been talking about the need to stop gun violence in hip-hop.
Jimmy Jones, 46, is not the type to keep quiet in the face of life-threatening violence within the industry. While Jones mourns Takeoff, he is positive that “stopping the violence” is a change that needs to happen in Hiphop
Jim Jones is rarely silent on issues he feels need to be spoken on. One issue that has become a continuous speaking piece for Jim Jones is the escalating violence in the hip-hop community. Capo has gone on record numerous times, raising the clarion call for needed reform. The recent wave of artists’ deaths to violence, particularly gun violence, has the rap personality reiterating what is already a given.
Jones Makes a Point
Jones recently participated in “Doin Lines,” a new XXL series. This series’s premise involves guests finishing 20 phrases as they are presented. When presented with the statement, “A change Hip-hop needs to make,” Jones responded. “[Is] stopping the violence.”
Like a Broken Record
This is not the first time Capo has spoken out. In 2020 Jones took a bold stance when he likened rappers to soldiers, contending that the two-faced and equal level of death due to unequivocal warfare. At the time, he received some flack for the comparison. An angered soldier disputed the point made by Capo. However, the artist stood by his comparison, citing the increasing danger rap artists face. Jones went as far as to point out his experience. Check out the exchange here.
The Hits Keep Coming
Slain Hip-Hop Artists. Image source: Defender.
Capo’s statement that being a rapper is one of the most dangerous jobs on the planet may ruffle a few feathers.
However, there is massive evidence that supports his truth. Jim Jones’s concern comes from the hundreds of hip-hop artists’ deaths from gun violence. Defender includes an exhaustive list of these bright lights from ages 17-45 that have been snuffed out too early, highlighting earlier Jones’s statements.
Takeoff’s Death Another Sobering Reminder
Takeoff. Image source: NBC News.
The recent death ofTakeoff (Kirsnick Khari Ball) re-solidified Jones’s point. At 28, the talented artist lost his life outside a bowling alley. According toPeople, Harris County Medical Examiner’s office says, “Takeoff’s death is attributed to penetrating gunshot wounds of head and torso into the arm.” Takeoff’s career as a hip-hop artist certainly didn’t cause his death. There is, however, a massive correlation between unchecked violence against hip-hop artists and the pervasive violence in music. Tragically, as Jones contends,
“As an aspiring artist, you have a 50 percent chance of making it as a rapper, and making it alive as a rapper is what it means.”
And that’s quite the gamble.
Trying to Scratch the Record
Jones is one of many doing what they can to bring light to the situation.
The ppl around these rappers gain so much. It’s time to start really reminding them over & over!!! At least TRY to put your foot down if you CARE! Tell them!!! You’re not loved like you think you are!!! You’re prey!!!! In a world full of predators!!!! What’s not clicking???!!! https://t.co/wpfxtnkBU6
It is truly a sad day when choosing a life as an artist draws a comparison to being a soldier on a battlefield. There is no rational basis for such. However, it is a reminder of what happens when rot, which in this case is a pervasive sub-culture of violence, goes unchecked.
Nevertheless, with great hope, Jones will not make this point in 2024 or even a month from now. But unfortunately, until there is real change, this will remain a depressing but reoccurring issue.
November 4th, in an off-the-cuff moment, a reporter addressed Method Man inquiring about his perspective on the links between countless deaths of hip-hop artists and the culture. Method’s response was pointed and timely.
Takeoff’s Death: The Impact
Breaking news of Takeoff’s death caught the world by surprise. The community was still recovering from the passing of PnB Rock, who also lost his life to gun violence. Knowing that the culture lost two promising artists in less than two months was hard to swallow. The community as a collective had a lot to reflect on.
In the most typical fashion, several artists poured out their hearts to the public, displaying a range of emotions, from raw anger to devastation.
No hot takes. No profound thoughts. Just sad that another rapper, son, brother, and friend has been killed. God be with all those who feel the loss. #TakeOff#MIGOS
Unfortunately, such events rub raw emotions and bring up unwanted questions. In the wake of Takeoff’s death, one pointed question reared its ugly head once again. Is hip-hop culture to be blamed? As this ideology seemed to gain prominence, the media looked to other artists within the industry for clarity. Method Man was one artist who was asked to offer a perspective.
Method Man On Hip Hop Culture And Violent Deaths
A day ago, Method man was accosted and inquired about his position on the link between Hip hop culture and the upheaval in violent deaths. Method Man wasn’t particularly keen on engaging in the subject. But he didn’t outright withhold his opinion, either. When asked if he felt anything had changed since the early days of hip-hop, a bewildered Method jokingly added, “Yea, the clothes.” But, of course, there was a deeper subtext to the reporter’s questioning. And, when pressed for a more definitive response regarding his feelings on the link between hip-hop and the countless death of rap artists, Method made it clear.
“I have no opinion about shootings and how they happen because the circumstances always point to hip-hop, and it’s not always our fault, period.”
What Does Method Man’s Response Show?
While it is rational for people to seek answers for unfathomable things in the wake of unexpected tragedy, it’s best not to ask specific questions for some time. There is a time and place for everything. As artists like Method have shown, perhaps their perspective is not the most pertinent at this moment.
Indeed, there is great fatigue around a line of questioning that does not separate correlation from causation. And what comes of the opinion of those who have spoken but more speculation and frustration?
So this raises the question, would not time be more appropriately spent directing energies toward support and reflection at this time? And given that, is it not of more significant benefit to shift focus to acts such as those shown by 50 Cent?
In exemplary fashion, Curtis Jackson, who is making strides to be a change in the world via his BMF docuseries, reached out to Take-Off’s family to offer his condolences. In addition, Jackson took the time to pour into Quavo in a time of unspeakable grief. The industry icon even went on to provide a suggestion for maintaining Takeoff’s legacy. His advice:
This is really how it goes @quavohuncho you have to position this Album correctly for Take Offs Legacy, go make a couple changes and address everything all artist make the best music out of painful moments. R.I.P to pop smoke 🕊R.I.P to TakeOff #bransoncognac#lecheminduroi
Of course, Fifty is not the only one who has taken the time to build up, show love, and honor the memory of Takeoff and the countless others who have fallen.
In Conclusion
Takeoff’s death was inane. Inarguably, there is no justifiable cause. And today, because of another senseless act of violence, there is a hole in the heart of hip-hop. The culture as a collective is in mourning.
Undoubtedly, the time will come to address the systemic rot. An issue such as this is too pervasive to go unaddressed. However, there is a season, time, and place for everything. It may not be the time to ask or focus on individualized opinions and perspectives. Today might be a time for unity, light, love, and collective healing.
