Categories
FM Fashion Trending

Ye opens the 2023 Balenciaga’s Fashion Show in Paris

Fashion house Balenciaga, known for its exquisite and cutting-edge shows highlighting its latest collections, tapped Ye for its 2023 display.

Ye’s Runway Debut

Some are defining Ye’s runway debut as surprising. While the artist is known to have a long-running partnership with the creative director of Balenciaga, a splash on the runway was not expected. However, Ye never melds into the background. And he was right at home in Paris,  at the Parc des Expositions in a signature piece.

Ye’s Ensemble A Slice of Dystopia

This year’s show was dystopian, replete with mud and slush, representing a post-apocalyptic landscape. When Demna, the creative director, sat to express the vision and powerful symbolism behind the earthy backdrop, he said,

“it is a metaphor for digging for the truth and being down to earth.”

For sure, one can say Ye’s piece was a fitting nod to that creative design. Kanye West was a force in his military-inspired ensemble. According to a source, he wore black leather pants paired with a hooded military-styled jacket adorned with a “security” patch and accented by a lidded cap.

https://twitter.com/dondas__place/status/1576515167721951233?s=20&t=5hUL-uPFB02ZSa86R-5Rjw

 

A Multi-talent

By now most are more than aware that West is not merely a rap artist extolled for his musical genius. Kanye is a multi-talent. Ye is also a fashion maverick well navigating the fashion world. As Vogue notes, Kanye has hosted eleven fashion shows, and his most recent and fourth-ever show was conducted in Paris. Vogue  additionally notes,

“He held two pre-YZY shows in Paris under his own name in 2011 and 2012.”

This Much is True

Given Ye’s success in the fashion world as in music, one thing holds: Kanye always boldly makes his imprint. And what more can one expect from one who knows exactly who they are, their purpose, and where they’re going? And as it relates to fashion, In Kanye’s words,

“Specifically in this fashion context, I see myself more as a George Lucas than a fashion designer. I work with true, true, true fashion designers.”

https://youtu.be/A7ghOO1LIh4

 

Ye Is In a Different League

Without question, Kanye is in a league of his own. No matter what he’s doing, adding a creative touch to a track, developing a signature style for a design, or walking the runway, his presence looms larger than life. So a toast to Ye on killing it in his runway debut.

Written by Renae Richardson

Categories
FM Culture Trending

Kanye Attempts To Bury The Hatchet With Profile Picture

Anyone keeping up with hip-hop news over the past few weeks is undoubtedly familiar with the ongoing conflict between Kanye West and the Jenner-Kardashian family. Following the divorce between Kanye West and Kim Kardashian, bad relations were expected. Unfortunately, the split failed to be either quick or amicable. Over the past few weeks Ye has made his grievances public, making several notable allegations. The most explosive allegation is his belief that the matriarch acted as a Hugh Hefner-like figure. 

How We Got Here

This came during an infamous social media tirade in which Kanye wrote, “They [his children with Kim Kardashian] will not do playboy and sextapes.” The post quickly gained more traction after Ray J commented on his support for West’s assertions against Kris Jenner. Ray J’s comment is consistent with the story he has always maintained; that the notorious leaked video of him and Kim Kardashian leaked with the approval of Kim’s family. The R&B singer even alleged that Kris Jenner arranged for him to meet with Steve Hirsh. Hirsh is a noted pornographer. Ray J’s suggestion seems to be that this, in some way, led to the eventual release of the tape. Such allegations led to even higher tensions between both parties. However, now Ye appears to be presenting an olive branch to Jenner.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

On Wednesday, September 28th, West changed his Instagram profile picture to an image of Kris Jenner. Later he clarified his decision to do so. West wrote, “I posted Kris with thoughts of peace and respect.” In addition, he stated that it was time to change the narrative. It is still unclear what the new narrative aims to be or how Kanye plans to bring about his change. However, of note in this situation is that the aim is peace. Peace is a tenet that a proclaimed Christian like West strives for. While it remains to be seen how Kanye or Jenner will move forward, it seems well to wish peace for both parties involved for the time being.

Categories
FM News Trending

Kanye West Hires Melinda Gates’ Divorce Lawyer In Divorce From Kim Kardashian

Ye, formerly Kanye West, has made yet another big play in his divorce from Kim Kardashian. Ye has now hired Malinda Gates’ lawyer. This power play may render successful as Melinda is the ex-wife of tech pioneer Bill Gates. 

According to TMZ, West has obtained council in New York with Robert Stephan Cohen.

Another One Bites The Dust

In August of 2022, West’s previous lawyer, Samantha Spector, filed a motion in court to step down as his lawyer. Spector cited an “irreconcilable breakdown” of their relationship. Spector is a well-known and respected divorce attorney. 

While we know West’s demands and antics can wear down relationships, the fact that his lawyer made this obscene request may have scared off many others.

Robert Stephan Cohen, a notorious lawyer for dealing with billionaires’ splits, has been added to Ye’s list of attorneys. The New York-based attorney is known for being brutally honest and has adopted references such as “killer,” a “Doberman,” and “your worst nightmare.” 

Business Insider gave intel on some of Cohen’s wealthiest clients, such as Donald Trump’s ex-wives and Uma Thurman.

Kanye, Enough Is Enough

Hiring this new lawyer will make the 6th lawyer handle Ye’s divorce case. Since Kim and Ye’s public announcement to split a year ago, the public has had a front-row seat to the shenanigans this case produced. Both have dated “seriously,” unfortunately opening the door to another pile-on of the issue for the once power couple.

The KKW cosmetics curator wasn’t as vocal as Ye during the divorce. However, she has made it clear that his outbursts and rants on social media played a significant part in wanting to be declared legally single immediately.

Collateral damage

While stormy judgment clouds this case, the West children also catch shrapnel from this nasty split. A once united household is now a zone for bad parenting claims and back and forth between parents. The oldest West child, North, hasn’t displayed much disdain for the divorce. Apparently, Kim and Ye were already living separately before announcing the divorce, a source shared with Hollywood Life.

Standing on his ’til death do us part” vows, Ye maintains that he wants his Queen and his family back. His stance that his kids want their parents together may be a heart-tugger, but Kim has yet to budge.

Written by Antoinette Ford | Facebook: Antoinette Ford | Instagram: iamtonimonique_ | Twitter: @mizzford9

Follow and like FMHipHop on YouTubeInstagramTwitter, and Facebook!

Related articles:

Kim Kardashian Is A Single Lady!

Kanye West Expresses Sadness Over Losing His “Queen: Kim Kardashian

Categories
FM Fashion FM News

Ye To Announce YEEZY Season 9 Paris Fashion Show

Known for his rants, constant public feuds, and ability to make himself heard, Kanye West has become a controversial figure. Aside from that however he is still one of America’s best rappers and also a successful clothing designer who’s been recognized for his fashion shows and unique style. Continuing that trend, West has announced his plans for his brand.

Upcoming YZYSZN9

West is abbreviating YEEZY SEASON as YZY SZN from now onwards. The hip-hop star proposed Oct 3rd for his next show at the Paris Fashion Week. Exciting as it is, the star came up across a few issues. Following his tirade aimed at Gap on social media, Ye called on his fans, making them aware that he needed a little backup for his upcoming runway show. He wrote:

“Magically No production companies have been willing to produce my YZYSZN9 fashion show in Paris on October 3rd,”

Afterwards, he criticized the Chairman of Gap Bobby Martin mentioning:

“Funny that Bob Martin called me and said we are amicably ending our deal But I can’t do a fashion show but they can keep selling my product hmmmmm,”

There’s a number of reasons why he clashed with the company, first implicating that Gap stole his ideas and sold them separately, and promised the opening of stores which they didn’t followw. West was frustrated and in this line of thinking decided to end all his contracts.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7ghOO1LIh4

Kanye fashion show. Image via Getty/ Randy Brooke

West Feud with Addidas & Gap

Yeezy’s owner took on Instagram to address his on-going issues with brand marks like Addidas and Gap. He’s been expressing his views and thoughts and finally parted ways with both companies. The 45-year-old rapper said during an interview with Bloomberg that he will no longer collaborate with other companies as he wants to pursue fashion independently now onwards. Kanye went on to say:

“It’s time for me to go at it alone. It’s fine. I made the companies money. The companies made me money. We created ideas that will change apparel forever. Like the round jacket, the foam runner, the slides that have changed the shoe industry. Now it’s time for Ye to make the new industry. No more companies standing in between me and the audience.”

After the latter sent his termination letter, he got a reply that involved a list of restrictions which he posted on his Instagram. It read:

“Neither Yeezy nor Ye may use, wear, sponsor, promote market, advertise, encore, design, manufacture, license sell, or provide consulting services with respect to any of the following products under the Yeezy Trademarks or Ye’s likeness or any other identifiable attribute, feature or indica of Ye.”

“Welp I guess the war’s not over,” said Kanye afterwards.

Well, let’s wait and see what Addidas and Gap have to say about this.

In case you missed it, check out above, Kanye’s NY fashion show. 
Categories
FM News Trending

The 2013 Sway and Kanye West Interview To Resurface With A Controversy

A viral clip from a 9-year-old interview is coming back to bite Kanye in a major way after some friction with Adidas.

If you were present on social media in 2013, there was no escaping from the infamous Sway In The Morning’s quote, “How Sway? You ain’t got the answers, man! You ain’t got the answers!” 

At the time, Kanye West yelled at Sway after he kept asking the artist questions about the legitimacy of big corporations backing rappers’ business ventures. Back then, Ye clearly held firm in his stance. But now he’s singing a different tune.

Kanye Concedes

This Thursday (Sep 22), ABC released footage from an exclusive interview with the “All Mine” rapper. A crucial part of the discussion was Kanye explaining his recently strained relationship with Adidas and Gap. 

“It was all kind of a disregard for the voice of something that I co-created,” he told Linsey Davis. “I co-created the product at Adidas. I co-created the product at Gap…I was there for some specific agenda, not for Yeezy Gap to be everything that it could be or this dream that I had about what the Gap could be. It’s time for me to make my own thing.”

Since things have gone south with both Gap and Adidas, Ye is changing strategies and plans to release products straight to the public. If you watched that infamous Sway In The Morning interview all those years ago, you might remember that’s the exact advice Calloway gave. 

“I will go ahead and say, Sway had the answer,” West finally admitted. Of course, hindsight is 20/20.

The 2013 Interview Incident

In 2013, Sway and Kanye sat down to chat about the dynamic between hip-hop culture and big corporations. Even then, Ye already expressed frustration with companies limiting his creative freedom and control. 

In the early 2010s, he was making Nike millions with his massively successful Air Yeezys. Specifically, the Red Octobers were a must-buy for sneakerheads across the country. 

In an eerie way, Ye echoes similar complaints he would have almost a decade later. Conflicts were quickly revealed when asked about the future plans for the Air Yeezys.

“You know Nike told me when I asked them? ‘We ain’t sure.’ You know what they told the store…of my boy that runs the store? They said, “if you want that Red October, you gotta take these 10 other shoes,” Kanye told Sway. Subsequently, it led to Sway suggesting Ye take things into his own hands.

“But why don’t you empower yourself and don’t need them and do it yourself?” He inquired. From there, viral internet history was then made.

It seems Kanye’s fans also recognize Sway had the answer all along. “Sway’s points to Kanye West have aged like fine wine,” one typed.

https://twitter.com/exavierpope/status/1573020217562877953

With Kanye’s net worth and business experience skyrocketing from 2013, he may finally find stability in his business ventures.

Written by Dreema Carrington

Follow and like FMHipHop on YouTubeInstagramTwitter, and Facebook!

Categories
FM News Trending

Kid Cudi Ranks Self The Most Hated Man in Hip Hop

American rapper, singer, and songwriter Kid Cudi has shared his conviction that he is the “most hated man in hip hop right now,” as at least “it seems.” Despite that, Kid Cudi, who is also a record producer, believes he is “really one of the most blessed!!” 

The rapper’s tweet has been a concern to some of his followers, while others just laughed it off.

“Lmaooo bro rest,” one told him.

More Reactions From Fans

It was an outright question from some to really understand the post “most hated where,” a fan asked Kid Cudi; the another “Whys he saying that Chaney?”

There are, however, several “you are not Cudi,” “so not true,” and “bro is lying” forms of reassurance of love for the rapper.

Another fan had to remind him that his follower base is vast, and that’s a plus. “you’ve got like 22 Million monthly listeners bro… that’s a Win,” he said.

For some, Cudi should simply “Let them haters stay jealous!!”. He understands that “when you have haters, you’re doing something right.”

A female fan added, “My husband said you’re right where you should be! That says your on the right track.”

Kid Cudi’s Post Resurfaces Issues With Kanye West

Some are finding ways of linking Cudi’s post with him falling out with Kanye West “as you deserve you threw Kanye under the bus for skete,” one said.

Meanwhile, @ragersvoid seems to be endorsing Kid’s point “hated for no reason.”

Others were harsh, “Literally no one gives a damn about you man;’ “YOU DESERVE IT;” “Lead me to the haters. We stand together!”

It didn’t actually stop there – “He thinks he is Kanye” and “step one cross Kanye there won’t be a step two,” another response slashed in.

Just as Kid Cudi doesn’t actually bother about what people say or think about him, for some, @GOATYE_FAN, the reaction was an outright “We don’t care”.

Recall that in April 2022, Cudi posted a Twitter post that showed a crack in his relationship with Kanye West.

Despite all, Cudi is throwing “a special I LOVE YOU to the city of Cleveland,” his homeland from where many love messages are coming in after performing at the Moon Landing Festival.

“Feels like the luckiest man alive to be able to call yall my friends.” Kid Cudi tweeted.

His Netflix series drops on September 30.

Written by Nonye Aghaji

Follow and like FMHipHop on YouTubeInstagramTwitter, and Facebook

Categories
Cherry Juice

Kanye West Responds To 50 Cent Over Kim Kardashian “Diarrhea” Post

The fact that Kanye West is outspoken is not surprising, as he is very forthright about his views. Recently, he has been posting a great deal of information on Instagram. Sadly, the artist has mourned the death of Queen Elizabeth, criticized Adidas and urged others to follow suit, ripped into Kim Kardashian and her family, voiced his discontent with Instagram’s guidelines, and many more.

Nevertheless, one thing he neglected to mention was the matter he resolved with 50 Cent.

An image posted on Instagram by the ‘I’m The Man’ rapper on Friday, Sept. 9, appeared to be a repost from Kanye West, which described his ex-wife’s bathroom habits. “Kim has diarrhea a lot,” the removed post began. “Like way more than the normal person could have it.”

What Did 50 Cent Think About The Instagram Post?

As a result of being surprised by what he read, 50 Cent captioned the post. “What the f**k make you do this, smh,” he wrote. “Not liquor nah. That boy on dat branson!”

However, there is a possibility that Ye is not the man behind one of the most recent posts. West quickly responded to the Power co-creator’s post in the comments section, denying the post was published by him. “I ain’t write this bro,” he wrote.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by DJ Akademiks (@akademiks)

The things that people choose to do with their time are astounding. Although trolling someone’s account might be an option, it is not always the best course of action.

Ye Previously Affirmed That He Didn’t Create The Post

Moreover, 50 Cent is probably unaware that earlier in the week, Kanye denied being the writer of the controversial “diarrhea” post that was initially posted on Twitter and became a viral hit eventually.

The “Gold Digger” rapper posted a message on his Instagram account to dispel the rumors. “This was not from me. Someone copied my style of text and wrote something not funny,” he elaborated.

Trolling

West has spent much time on his Instagram calling out various opponents in the past few weeks. Also, his account currently contains only two photographs. One of the photos is of a model wearing new Yeezy sunglasses. The caption, however, was omitted by Ye.

Due to all that West has been through lately, it is understandable why his Instagram page is so sparse. Furthermore, as a popular public figure, one is likelier to be stalked and trodden by others. There seems to be a system that prevents celebrities from living peaceful lives for whatever reason.

The person who created that post about Kim K should be ashamed of themselves.

Written by Nikiya Biggs

Instagram: @ngv6236 | Twitter: @BiggsNikiya

Follow and like FMHipHop on Twitter, Spotify, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram!

Categories
FM Biz Trending

Kanye And Diddy Join Forces Against Adidas

Kanye West’s latest social media rants became quite the trending topic over the past few days. Kanye’s rants touched on a variety of deeply personal issues. 

Kanye addressed his recent divorce from Kim Kardashian, listed his favorite comedians (a list which featured himself), and, most interestingly, his business dealings with Adidas. The rapper’s partnership with Adidas is both long-running and highly successful.

However, it soured rapidly. Kanye took to Instagram and made shocking allegations against the shoe juggernaut. Including claims that Adidas actively stole Ye’s shoe designs, passing Yeezy designs as non-Yeezy shoes.

Adidas’ AdiFOM Q sneaker bears more than a passive resemblance to other Yeezy designs. Kanye’s anger towards Adidas no doubt caused much pressure on the company and its higher-ups, and unfortunately for them, Ye gained allies.

Diddy Jumps In

Another Hip-Hop heavyweight turned business mogul issued a statement supportive of Kanye. Diddy took to his Instagram account to give support and a screenshot of a text conversation between himself and Kanye.

The incredibly influential man told Kanye, “I never wear Adidas again for the rest of my life if they don’t make you right…” Kanye responded simply with, “Praise God. Love you”. On top of that, Diddy released a statement in his post.

In said post, Diddy acknowledges the impact Adidas as a brand holds within the hip-hop scene. He directly cites Run-DMC as contributing to the brand’s success in the hip-hop scene. Afterward, he accuses the brand of shady tactics and an unwillingness to help a culture that has supported them. Likewise adding, “Adidas…used Hip Hop to build its brand and make billions…BUT WE ARE MORE THAN JUST CONSUMERS NOW, WE’RE THE OWNERS.”

He concluded his post by stating that Ye is the primary reason behind Adidas’ continued success. In no uncertain terms, he claimed Adidas’ success in hip-hop culture is due to Kanye. A non-controversial opinion to many. He then reiterated that he is done with their products until the corporation makes things right with Kanye.

The Takeaway 

Kanye’s recent social media surges garnered much attention; however, many have come to his defense. With more pressure mounting on Adidas to make things right, it seems like a matter of time before some statement or negotiation comes out. Kanye and Diddy seeks to prove with their mutual support that despite being a part of the culture, no corporation is big enough to disregard what the culture demands.

Follow and like FMHipHop on YouTubeInstagramTwitter, and Facebook!

Written by Ryan Fields

Categories
Cherry Juice Trending

JAY-Z’s Top 7 Verses in His Career

DJ Khaled just dropped his album that included A-list artists, per usual. Of course, he had none other than Jay-Z on his tracklist. “God Did” featuring Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, John Legend, and Fridayy. Jay-Z goes last, having the most extended verse. He spits for at least five minutes leaving listeners to forget that Ross and Wayne were also on the track. Jay-Z’s verse is being talked about, and a popular question arises: is this his best verse? Everyone wants to know, and I’m sure everyone has their own opinion. Jay-Z has so many bars, which makes this debate difficult. We, however, cracked it and came up with Jay-Z’s top 7 verses.

7. “What’s Free” By Meek Mill ft. JAY-Z and Rick Ross (“Championships” Album)

Jay-Z goes last in this song off Meek Mill’s “Championships” album. When this came out, the world stopped! This was 2018, in which Hov had been rapping for over 20 years. Fans were excited to hear a verse from the legend as his career is winding down. He touched on many topics and what’s happening in the world today. People appreciated the knowledge he dropped regarding the history of our culture. In this 3-minute verse, you can learn a lot from Hov!

https://twitter.com/jamarj_8/status/1321640187416383488?s=21&t=CcCDhzMBK9BxkhwAnUeAiw

6. “No Church in the Wild” By Jay-Z & Kanye West ft. Frank Ocean & The-Dream (“Watch the Throne” Album)

In 2011, Jay-Z and Kanye West released their joint album “Watch the Throne.” Hov drops knowledge in his first few bars referencing Ancient Rome and the backstabbing Pilgrims. He also lets you know that he has studied ancient philosophy as he mentions the Euthyphro dilemma. Jay-Z refers to Socrates and Plato as class is in session for all listeners!

5. “Pound Cake” By Drake ft. JAY-Z (“Nothing Was the Same” Album)

Another surprise was when Drake dropped “Nothing Was the Same.” We were all happy to hear the Brooklyn rapper on a song with Drake. Like in his recent “God Did” verse, this verse he talks about the people who made millions because of him. Dame Dash, Biggs, Kanye West, Just Blaze, Lyor Cohen, Cam’ron, and Beanie Sigel all made millions under Roc-A-Fella.

4. “Soon You’ll Understand” 2nd Verse By Jay-Z (“The Dynasty: Roc-La-Familia” Album)

Off “The Dynasty” album, Hov brings listeners into his personal life. We get to see him being vulnerable early in his career. He speaks about love, friendship, and family. I’m pretty sure the second verse is not about Jay-Z’s personal life.

3. “Renegade” 2nd Verse By JAY-Z ft. Eminem (“The Blueprint” Album)

In this one, Hov goes head-to-head against Eminem. There’s a considerable debate on who went harder, Em or Jay? I’ll give the edge to Jay on this song even though Eminem’s verses are high level, probably the best he’s written. I think Em knew he had to show up on Jay-Z’s album. In 2001, Jay-Z had the game wrapped around his finger.

2. “Song Cry” 2nd Verse By Jay-Z (“The Blueprint” Album)

Similar to “Soon You’ll Understand,” Jay-Z gets vulnerable again. It’s not hard to feel him on this one. He’s talking about things many of us can relate to. Jay-Z can tell a story, be personal, and make a hit song. “Song Cry” has all of it!

1. “Dear Summer” By Jay-Z (2005 Freestyle)

Many people might’ve forgotten this was Memphis Bleek’s song, but Hov stole the show. Per usual! At this time, Jay-Z didn’t have a verse since “The Black Album,” which came out in 2003. This freestyle excited the hip-hop world, and we realized that Hov wasn’t in “retirement.” 17 years later, and this freestyle is still so good!

We only did seven because Jay-Z just has too much in his catalog! There are so many other verses that can be put on this list! Hov has 17 albums, countless singles, and so many awards. The Hall of Fame songwriter still does it like no other!

Follow and like FMHipHop on SpotifyInstagramYouTubeFacebook, and Twitter

Written by: Brandon Simmons

Categories
FM Fashion Trending

Yeezy, GAP, & Balenciaga Team Up For Collection

Ye, Gap, and Balenciaga have all teamed up to collaborate on a collection, which arrived in stores in late July. Following this release Ye has revealed a new campaign for the collection, which focuses on what each of the three giants contribute.

On social media platforms such as Instagram you can see the garments that are being made.  Balenciaga puts their stamp on the Yeezy product by bringing creative director Betsy Johnson and photographer Kristina Nagel on board, as both have worked with the line before.  We all know Ye has an affixion with dark themes, so as expected most of the garments shown in the collection have been in black.

Ye Needs Demna

Balenciaga creative director Demna Gvasalia is very involved in the process, but says this is the only time this collaboration is happening.  Demna says his only job is to give Ye a bit of a confidence boost and now that Ye has it, there is no more work for him to be done.  Demna and his team brought Ye’s vision to life in a way that Ye can potentially continue to build on.  But, knowing Ye, he will probably do a complete 360 and do his own thing.  The first announcement of the Yeezy, Gap, and Balenciaga collaboration came at the end of 2021.  Although, they are only collaborating this time, fans get to enjoy releases for the rest of this year.

YEEZY x GAP x Balenciaga

This past week, new images of the garments were uploaded daily on the YEEZY Instagram page.  On the page you will see a huge poncho, enormous boots, jackets, and very tight fitting bodysuits.  Check the YEEZY Gap website to get the latest clothes and accessories.  A few weeks ago, the Yeezy Gap Balenciaga collection confused shoppers, as the collection is being sold out of trash bags.

According to a Gap employee, Ye did not want his clothes on hangars. This isn’t surprising as Ye’s mind works differently from everyone else.  He prefers shoppers to look through the whole collection to find out what they need.  Before doing this, Ye says he gets his inspiration from homeless people.  Maybe this was the reason for the trash bags, which were later confirmed to be large construction bags. As in innovator and someone not afraid of public backlash, we’ll just have to see what’s next.

Written by: Brandon Simmons