Legendary auction house Sotheby's is preparing to showcase its third dedicated hip-hop sale, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the genre and celebrating its profound impact on art and culture. Among the extraordinary collection of historical treasures, one particular gem stands out—the self-designed gold, diamond and ruby ring of rap icon Tupac Shakur.

Hennessy and Nas have partnered to commemorate the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. In this unique collaboration, the leading cognac brand will release a limited-edition Hennessy V.S bottle, designed in partnership with the hip-hop legend, paying homage to the enduring relationship between Hennessy and the genre.

The bottle's unveiling is scheduled for July 20 at a digital mapping event, aiming to showcase the global impact of hip-hop culture. Additionally, Hennessy will introduce Hennessy Album Covers, an AI-led experience that transforms selfies into personalized album covers, drawing inspiration from iconic hip-hop eras as part of their Rep Yours campaign. This campaign invites fans to express their connection to hip-hop through an immersive digital experience.

Nas expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration with Hennessy, emphasizing the brand's significant influence on hip-hop fans across generations. In a statement announcing the partnership, the Grammy Award-winning rapper said, "It means a lot to me to celebrate this legendary moment in hip-hop history with Hennessy, a brand that has supported me for over 10 years. Hennessy is deeply embedded in our culture and continues to inspire generations of hip-hop fans. I'm extremely proud to share our new limited-edition bottle with the world."

The relationship between Hennessy and hip-hop has been intertwined for years, with the cognac brand prominently featured in countless rap songs, solidifying its position as the most referenced spirit in the industry. Renowned artists such as Nas, Tupac, and Jay-Z have made numerous lyrical references to Hennessy, highlighting its prominence within the genre.

Beyond its presence in lyrics, Hennessy has actively engaged with the hip-hop community through collaborations and partnerships. Working alongside renowned photographer Renell Medrano, Nas has narrated a film as a heartfelt tribute to hip-hop. The film showcases imagery of the Hennessy V.S Bottle and offers a personal reflection on the brand's profound impact on the culture.

To enhance the celebration, Hennessy's expert mixologists have crafted three signature cocktails inspired by flavors synonymous with hip-hop: "The Big Apple," "HenNASsy Honey" and "Incredible Hennessy."

For more information and to participate in toasting this seminal moment in hip-hop history through the Rep Yours campaign, click here.

NPR's celebration of Black Music Month culminated not in a bang, but in a symphony of soul, rhythm, blues, and rap, uniquely born in the vibrant streets of New Orleans.

Photo Credit R. Rosales / Courtesy of Republic Records

"He's a beast, he's a dog... he's an icon."

Lil Wayne, a longtime veteran in the rap game at the age of 40, will be honored with the prestigious BMI Icon Award at the upcoming 2023 R&B/Hip-Hop Awards on September 6.

The private ceremony, hosted by BMI President & CEO Mike O'Neill and BMI Vice President, Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton, will take place at Miami Beach's LIV Nightclub, recognizing Lil Wayne's influential career spanning over 20 years.

"As a legend and superstar of Hip-Hop, Lil Wayne is synonymous with the genre. He's been part of the BMI family since 2002, and we're proud to name him a BMI Icon, acknowledging his status as one of the most influential artists of all time," said Brewton in a statement released by BMI, expressing excitement about celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Hip-Hop and its enduring impact on various cultural spheres.

Born Dwayne Michael Carter Jr., Lil Wayne emerged from the vibrant New Orleans music scene in the 1990s, rapidly gaining recognition for his exceptional lyrical skills and distinctive voice. After being signed by legendary Louisiana label Cash Money Records at the age of 12, he showcased his potential as a member of the hit-making group, the Hot Boys, before embarking on a remarkable solo career. Throughout his journey, he has amassed five Grammy Awards and exceeded 100 million records sold worldwide.

Beyond music, Lil Wayne's influence extends to fashion, pop culture and entrepreneurship. Through his label, Young Money Entertainment, he has nurtured emerging talent and produced chart-topping hits. Notably, his mentorship and collaborations with industry heavyweights like Drake and Nicki Minaj have propelled their careers to great heights, solidifying Wayne's impact on an entire generation of artists.

The BMI Icon Award, previously bestowed upon esteemed figures such as Janet Jackson, Patti LaBelle, Snoop Dogg, and Busta Rhymes, honors songwriters, composers or producers who have profoundly shaped the music industry.

Throughout his career, Wayne has received 52 BMI Awards and has been recognized multiple times as the R&B/Hip Hop Songwriter of the Year. In 2009, his track "Down" was honored as the College Song of the Year at the BMI London Awards.

While the show's duration was notably long, lasting for 3 hours and 52 minutes, the 2023 BET Awards, held at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday night, featured memorable moments and standout performances.

Migos members Quavo and Offset surprised audiences with a reunion performance honoring their late bandmate, Takeoff. Ice Spice captivated viewers with a Bronx-themed set, showcasing her hits in a dazzling production complete with a basketball court and a mock subway platform.

Busta Rhymes, the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement award, delivered a moving speech reflecting on his career and the importance of mentorship, accompanied by tributes from industry legends.

"A lot of greatness from our people and our culture is by default because it's just the magic that we have," the multiplatinum rapper said. "I am grateful for the blessing that has been bestowed upon me and this gift that I have been given, and this fire that continues to burn as a passion in my soul."

Rhymes, 51, added, "It's just me trying to do my duty to continue to advance the culture and contribute in a significant way. I see so many people in here that I have known and grown with for a long time. You're watching me grow, and I love y'all, and I know y'all love me."

Other notable award winners of the night included Beyoncé and Sza, who tied for Album of the Year with their respective albums, "Renaissance" and "SOS." Latto claimed the title of Best Female Hip Hop Artist, while Kendrick Lamar was recognized as the Best Male Hip Hop Artist. Sza's "Kill Bill" secured the Video of the Year award and Teyana "Spike Tey" Taylor was honored as the Video Director of the Year.

Watch Rhymes' full speech above. Continue reading for a complete list of award winners.

XXL has revealed its highly anticipated 2023 freshman class, showcasing 12 emerging stars in the hip-hop genre. The annual list, unveiled on Wednesday, features a diverse group of artists: Finesse2tymes, Lola Brooke, Rob49, Fridayy, GloRilla, 2Rare, SleazyWorld Go, Central Cee, Real Boston Richey, Luh Tyler, TiaCorine and DC The Don.

This year's announcement carries extra significance as it precedes the upcoming 50th anniversary of hip-hop in August. Reflecting on the genre's evolution over the past five decades, the hip-hop magazine compares the birth of hip-hop to the formation of a diamond, with artists selected for the 2023 freshman class embodying the current essence of the genre's sound.

These rising stars stand alongside past XXL freshmen such as J. Cole, Kendrick Lamar, Future, Travis Scott, Lil Durk, Lil Uzi Vert and Megan Thee Stallion, aiming to make their mark on hip-hop's history. In the coming weeks, XXL will release a series of content, including freestyles, cyphers, and interviews, providing a platform for each freshman to showcase their talent.

Fans eager to dive into the Freshman issue can expect it to hit stands on July 18. In addition to introducing the 2023 class and featuring groundbreaking producer Pi'erre Bourne, who crafted the beats for this year's cyphers, the issue includes interviews with acclaimed artists such as Lil Baby, NLE Choppa, Boosie BadAzz, Toosii, DDG, Saba and others.

Raphael Saadiq unveiled a momentous revelation on Tuesday. With an absence spanning close to a quarter-century, the revered R&B ensemble Tony! Toni! Toné! is poised for a renaissance.

Saadiq, a sonic maestro, and his cohorts—his brother D'Wayne Wiggins and Timothy Christian Riley—emerged as architects of musical ingenuity, fundamentally shaping the hip-hop and soul soundscape of the 1990s.

Their upcoming "Just Me & You Tour," an auditory odyssey orchestrated by Live Nation Urban, marks an extraordinary resurrection for Tony! Toni! Toné!, a testament to their musical legacy.

The highly-anticipated tour is scheduled to commence on Sept. 21 at the BJCC Concert Hall in Birmingham, AL. From there, Tony! Toni! Toné! will embark on a coast-to-coast journey, gracing major markets including New York, Chicago, Nashville, TN, and Los Angeles.

The tour will culminate with two performances in the Bay Area: at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland, CA, on Nov. 14, and The Masonic in San Francisco on Nov. 17.

Tony! Toni! Toné! burst onto the musical landscape of the late 1980s, mesmerizing audiences with an alchemical fusion of R&B, funk and soul. Their audacious and groundbreaking new jack swing compositions served as a transformative force, ushering in the heralded era of neo-soul that would indelibly define the melodious tapestry of the 1990s.

Songs like "Feels Good," "Anniversary," and "It Never Rains (In Southern California)" became popular anthems, captivating a generation and etching the group's name onto the hallowed walls of musical history.

Yet, despite their meteoric ascent, the ensemble eventually disbanded, leaving a void in the hearts of their devout followers, who longed for a reunion.

Now Saadiq is answering that call and fulfilling their wishes.

"I've always wanted to put my family back together," Saadiq said in a statement. "Playing with the Tonys again is a thank you to the fans, the Super Tonians, for supporting all my musical efforts. Without those who were with us from Day One, where would I be? But the main reason is that my father, Charlie Wiggins, would've wanted it this way–to see me, D'Wayne, and Tim playing together again."

Saadiq has crafted an indomitable presence in the vast realm of music since the group's dissolution, ascending to stratospheric heights in his solo career. His collaborations with luminaries such as Beyoncé, D'Angelo and Solange highlight his ability to seamlessly blend timeless sophistication with audacious innovation and have earned him effusive acclaim — accompanied by a slew of coveted awards.

"The Just Me & You Tour" setlist will encompass Tony! Toni! Toné!'s greatest hits, taking audiences on a nostalgic journey through their iconic discography. Additionally, Saadiq will showcase his solo material, including tracks from his highly acclaimed albums and hits he wrote for other notable artists.

Fans eager to secure their spots can take advantage of the artist presale, beginning Wednesday. Live Nation and Spotify will also offer presales on Thursday, with general ticket sales beginning Friday. For more information go to RaphaelSaadiqMusic.com.

Legendary rapper Tupac Shakur was posthumously honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame today, solidifying his status as an icon whose influence continues to reverberate through the generations.

First look at Tupac's star at the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Who's excited for next Wednesday?

"I salute you, my n****z, stay strong
I ride for you, I rhyme for you, I roll for you, it's all for you." - 2Pac

CC: Fernando Di$co Rodriguez pic.twitter.com/PW9RRFTnbc

— 2pacunlimited.eth 𓃮 (@2pacunlimited) June 3, 2023

Ana Martinez, the producer of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, expressed the impact of Shakur's legacy, stating, "Tupac Shakur was a rapper, actor, activist, poet, and revolutionary. This iconic artist has remained part of the zeitgeist for decades after his passing and will continue to be an important cultural figure for many years to come. As one of L.A.'s own, Tupac's star will surely join the list of the most visited stars."

The star unveiling ceremony, hosted by emcee Big Boy, featured filmmaker Allen Hughes, director of the acclaimed docuseries "Dear Mama: The Saga of Afeni and Tupac Shakur." Sekyiwa "Set" Shakur, his sister, accepted the star on behalf of the family.

"We love you, Tupac." Sekyiwa Shakur gets emotional while speaking about her brother's legacy and impact at the Hollywood Walk of Fame. https://t.co/rDVcwgWr6I pic.twitter.com/AgDTEC9GZV

— Variety (@Variety) June 7, 2023

Shakur, known internationally for his multifaceted talent, transcended the boundaries of art and activism. In his brief but prolific career, he sold over 75 million records worldwide, solidifying his status as one of hip-hop's most iconic figures. Both his albums, "All Eyez on Me" and "Greatest Hits," achieved Diamond certification, with sales surpassing ten million copies each.

Sekyiwa Shakur unveiling Tupac’s Hollywood Walk of Fame Star! ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/o8ZbPMkMOP

— 2Pac News (@2pacnews) June 7, 2023

Shakur's legacy extends beyond music, as he made a significant impact in the film industry with memorable performances in movies such as "Juice," "Poetic Justice," and "Above The Rim," showcasing his versatility as an actor.

His cultural impact has been recognized through various museum exhibits, including the Grammy Museum's "All Eyez on Me: The Writings of Tupac Shakur" and the thought-provoking museum experience "Tupac Shakur: Wake Me When I'm Free" in Los Angeles.

Watch the video of the star unveiling ceremony below.

 

While many of us may have experienced minor mishaps or hiccups on Mother's Day, Nick Cannon's card mix-up over the holiday weekend stands out as quite the conundrum.

The renowned TV host and even more prolific father found himself in a sticky situation on Sunday when he accidentally mixed up handwritten cards intended for the six mothers of his 12 children.

During an episode of his radio show, aptly titled "The Daily Cannon," Cannon openly confessed his well-intentioned yet muddled gesture to his cohosts.

"I tried my best, I really did," Cannon admitted in a video shared on his Instagram page. "I thought it would be a great way to genuinely express one's feelings by putting them into words. And I was writing heartfelt messages by hand. But then, as I was crafting a handwritten message, I mixed up the cards. So, when one baby mama reads a card intended for another baby mama..."

Beyoncé kicked off her first tour in over four years today at Stockholm's Friends Arena, delivering an unforgettable performance that included live debuts of several tracks from her Grammy-winning album, "Renaissance."

🪩 | Beyoncé opens the #RENAISSANCE WORLD TOUR with Dangerously In Love pic.twitter.com/2yO7MC7SR9

— Beyoncé Press. 🪩 | Fan Account (@beyoncepress) May 10, 2023

The superstar took to the stage without an opening act, allowing fans to get straight to the main event, a three-hour extravaganza filled with high-energy dance routines and breathtaking visuals, as chronicled by the fans and media in attendance on the internet.The tour continues tomorrow with a second night in Stockholm before heading to North America, with the first stop in Toronto on July 8. It includes stops at more than 50 cities, including London, New York City, Atlanta and Los Angeles.

Beyoncé’s RENAISSANCE World Tour is next level#RWT2023

pic.twitter.com/S0zMISc93e

— RENAISSANCE Updates🪩 (@B7Album) May 10, 2023

According to Forbes, Beyoncé's latest global trek could out-earn Taylor Swift's ongoing Eras Tour by a whopping $500 million, with an estimated gross of nearly $2.1 billion, which would make it the most successful concert series of all time.

"Renaissance," which was released last July, won Beyoncé a record-breaking four Grammy Awards, including Best Dance/Electronic Recording, Best Traditional R&B Performance, Best R&B Song, and Best Dance/Electronic Music Album. With these accolades, Beyoncé is now the most decorated artist in Grammys history.

Check out the setlist from her opening night below:

The last album to the trilogy, a perfect way to close the chapter. He’s grown so much as a person and artist, The Weeknd gave us an entire catalog of timeless music that I will cherish forever. I am excited to see what he’ll give us in the future, not as The Weeknd but as Abel✨ https://t.co/HmcBTwCatO

— Crystal⚡️ (@sicamoregirl) May 8, 2023

Missy Elliott, the trailblazing songwriter and producer crucial in crafting the Virginia Beach sound, along with Pharrell Williams and Timothy “Timbaland” Mosley, that dominated airwaves in the late 1990s and 2000s, is at the head of this year's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame class.

Elliott was one of seven musicians announced Wednesday to have been voted into the hall during a one-hour special that was streamed on Apple Music 1, along with Willie Nelson, Kate Bush, Rage Against the Machine, Sheryl Crow, George Michael and the Spinners.

While freshly-minted nonagenarian Nelson might have the biggest name recognition, the two-time Grammy Award winner — who was also the first woman rapper inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame — accomplished something the country music legend could not by being the only artist in this crop to be inducted in her first year of eligibility, 25 years after her first commercial recording.

Elvis may have left the building, but "Black Elvis" is poised to make a comeback.

Independent rap legend Kool Keith, also known as Dr. Octagon, is preparing to release his highly anticipated album "Black Elvis 2" on June 16 via Mello Music Group. The album is the sequel to his 1999 cult classic "Black Elvis/Lost in Space."

Rap mogul Jay-Z will return to the stage this week for a rare live performance. On Tuesday, his label, Roc Nation, announced that he would perform at the Louis Vuitton Foundation's Auditorium in Paris on Friday to celebrate the cultural impact of two of the most influential artists of the 20th century: Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol.

Basquiat was an American artist of Haitian and Puerto Rican descent who rose to fame in the 1980s as a neo-expressionist painter and graffiti artist. His works are known for their intense colors, bold brushstrokes and incorporation of symbols and text.

🇬🇧🎤JAY-Z - Celebration concert

To coincide with the #BasquiatWarhol exhibition at the Fondation, JAY-Z will give a concert to pay tribute to Warhol and Basquiat, on Friday 14 April 2023 at 9pm, in the Fondation’s Auditorium.

🎫Tickets on sale : https://t.co/Icp8NcO0zn pic.twitter.com/3p2gPwxjF2

— Roc Nation (@RocNation) April 12, 2023

Warhol, on the other hand, was an American artist, filmmaker and pioneer of the Pop Art movement, best known for his vividly colored silkscreen prints of celebrities, everyday objects and iconic American symbols such as the Campbell's soup can.

The "Basquiat x Warhol. Painting Four Hands" exhibition, which the concert will coincide with, features the two artists' 160 canvas collaborations, showcasing the distinctive styles of both artists and highlighting the artistic dialogue between them.

The event, dubbed the "JAY-Z Celebration Concert," is sponsored by Tiffany & Co. and marks a rare occurrence for Jay-Z, who hasn't been on an official tour since his $44-billion grossing 4:44 Tour in 2017. He was last seen on stage rapping his "God Did" verse at the 2023 Grammy Awards, something he said he did out of respect for hip-hop culture.

"I thought about it, I was in my head, and I just broke down and said, 'You know, it's a four-minute verse.' Again, for the culture, for hip-hop, we gotta do that," he told TIDAL.

Jay-Z's love for Basquiat and Warhol has been evident in his music for decades. In his 2008 song "Ain't I," he rapped, "I got Warhols on my hall's walls, I got Basquiats in the lobby of my spot/I'm so sophisticatedly hood, S. Carter cashmere premium goods." In his 2011 song "Illest Motherf*cker Alive," he rapped, "Basquiat, Warhols serving as my muses/My house like a museum, so I see 'em when I'm peeing, usually, you have this much taste, you European."

Beyoncé wearing the iconic Tiffany Stone alongside Jay Z & a never-before-seen painting by Basquiat. Jean-Michel Basquiat was regarded as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. He dies at 27 of an overdose. Jeffery Wright portrays him in “Basquiat.” pic.twitter.com/pj4US32zqV

— Loni Love (@LoniLove) August 23, 2021

It's worth noting that the concert will also be supported by Tiffany & Co., with which both Jay-Z and his wife Beyoncé have brand deals. Although Basquiat's estate has spoken out against his work being featured in Jay-Z and Beyoncé's Tiffany & Co campaign, Jay-Z emphasizes that he is solely a fan of the artist.

Da Brat, the legendary Chicago rapper born as Shawntae Harris, has made history twice.

Houston native Megan Thee Stallion made a special appearance at the Astros' home opener on Thursday, where she threw the ceremonial first pitch for her hometown team.

The Grammy-winning rapper donned a white Astros jersey and a diamond chain with the words "Hot Girl," along with a jersey displaying her last name and "222" on the back.

While her pitch landed a little outside and bounced in the left-handed batter's box, Megan managed to get the ball to the plate, a feat that has eluded many other celebrities attempting the first pitch. Astros' mascot, Orbit, gave her a hug to celebrate the accomplishment.

The pitch was a lighthearted moment in Megan's busy schedule, as she continues to make waves in the entertainment industry.

Megan is in talks to star in a new Netflix movie alongside Adam Sandler, which will be directed and produced by Josh and Benny Safdie, the directors of the hit movie "Uncut Gems." The film, set in the world of sports memorabilia, will begin production this summer, although its title and plot are yet to be revealed.

Megan is also making her feature film debut in the R-rated musical comedy "F***ing Identical Twins," produced by A24 and Chernin Entertainment. She will star opposite Nathan Lane, Bowen Yang and Megan Mullally, although the film's release date is still unknown.

However, Megan has also been involved in a high-profile court case with rapper Tory Lanez, whose legal name is Daystar Peterson. Lanez was found guilty of shooting Megan on a California curbside in July 2020.

Lanez's lawyers have filed a motion for a new trial, citing various grounds, including a claim that the judge "erroneously allowed" jurors to view an Instagram post from Lanez's account claiming that Megan's now-estranged best friend Kelsey Harris was the shooter.

During the trial, both Kelsey and Megan denied the allegations that Kelsey fired the shots that wounded Megan. Lanez faces up to 22 years in prison at sentencing, but his new lawyers have successfully lobbied the judge to delay his sentencing until April to prepare for the motion.

Check out Megan's first pitch below:

Hip-hop legend Snoop Dogg received a grand Scottish greeting upon his arrival at Glasgow Airport for his highly anticipated concert at the OVO Hydro on Thursday night.

The 51-year-old rapper was met by the soulful sound of bagpipes as the traditional Scottish musical instrument played his classic 1999 hit, "Still D.R.E.," in collaboration with Dr. Dre, marking a rare moment of cultural fusion.

Upon hearing the iconic tune played with a Scottish twist, Snoop couldn't contain his excitement and exclaimed, "F—ing dope!" before busting a few moves on the tarmac.

To brave the chilly Scottish weather, the "Gin and Juice" hitmaker was wrapped up in a blanket and donned a red beanie.

Bagpiper Ross Ainslie, who was dressed in a kilt for the occasion, shared his thoughts with Glasgow Live, stating that "It was a very cool experience!" He also revealed that he only had a day to learn Snoop's hit song but was pleased with his tartan-flavored rendition.

The heartwarming moment was shared on Ross' Instagram account, garnering over 40,000 views.

Snoop's concert had been rescheduled from August 2021 due to scheduling conflicts.

Watch the video below to see the international act of goodwill.

Renowned Roc-A-Fella producer Just Blaze has revealed that the late Michael Jackson lent his vocal talents to the once-mythical "Girls, Girls, Girls (Remix)" with Jay-Z.

In an interview with Bloomberg's Idea Generation, Blaze said he discovered rare vocals from the "Thriller" icon on his personal computer during quarantine.

We’re taking it back to the iconic @Hot97 Summer Jam moment when Hov brought out Michael Jackson! #HipHopAwards #TBT pic.twitter.com/YL6loJEpa3

— #HipHopAwards (@HipHopAwards) October 22, 2020

"I thought it was an urban legend or something that Jay said like in jest one day or just was some kind of a myth," Blaze recalled. "And I realize as I’m listening to it it’s him singing on ‘Girls, Girls, Girls.’ And I’m like … ‘It’s true.’ The last 20 years, I just found it during quarantine. So all these years, I’ve never known it was a real thing. And turns out the files had been sitting downstairs this entire time."

Blaze produced the single, which originally featured on Jay-Z's 2001 masterpiece, "The Blueprint," and peaked at No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

The revelation only adds to the memorable moments between Jackson and Jay-Z during the early 2000s, which included the King of Pop's surprise appearance at Jay-Z's headlining set at Hot 97's Summer Jam concert in 2001 and Jay-Z's cameo on Jackson's "You Rock My World (Remix)."

Watch the entire interview below: