SZA Named Variety's 'Hitmaker of the Year'

The Come Up Show, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

SZA has been crowned "Hitmaker of the Year" at Variety's seventh annual Hitmakers celebration. The event, set to grace the Nov. 29 publication and accompanied by an exclusive invitation-only brunch on December 2, recognizes the individuals who have played a pivotal role in shaping and defining this year's 25 most-consumed songs, according to Billboard and Luminate Charts.

Variety's Executive Music Editor, Jem Aswad, succinctly captures the spirit of the event, stating, "The goal of Hitmakers has always been to honor the top artists and songs of the year, and especially the people behind them." He goes on to elaborate, "SZA, her 'SOS' album and tour, and her hits this year are not only a creative and commercial triumph but one with a reach that extends far beyond the music world. We are immensely proud to honor her as our Hitmaker of the Year."

SZA, HITMAKER OF THE YEAR! pic.twitter.com/DjE0V9Jydg

— SZA Brasil (@szabrs) November 6, 2023

SZA's distinction as Hitmaker of the Year follows a string of award nominations, solidifying her status as a dominant force in the music industry. Most recently, Femme It Forward announced its Give Her FlowHERS Awards Gala, featuring SZA alongside notable artists like Teyana Taylor, Brandy, Flo Milli, and others.

Furthermore, the BET Soul Train Awards recently revealed that SZA, Usher, and Summer Walker are leading the pack with nine nominations each. The awards ceremony, scheduled to air on Nov. 26, marks a remarkable month for the talented artist.

Along with SZA, Olivia Rodrigo, Metro Boomin and boygenius, Billie Eilish and Finneas, Maren Morris and Mark Ronson are among the honorees at Variety’s seventh annual Hitmakers celebration. https://t.co/8KZMRPCNpR

— Variety (@Variety) November 6, 2023

SZA's critically acclaimed album, "SOS," made a significant impact with its debut at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart in December. The album comprises 23 tracks, including hit singles like "Kill Bill," "Snooze" and "Nobody Gets Me," with collaborations featuring renowned artists such as Don Toliver, Phoebe Bridgers, Travis Scott and Ol' Dirty Bastard.

Following the album's remarkable success, SZA embarked on an extensive tour across Europe and the United States, captivating audiences with her artistry. The North American leg of her tour commenced on Sept. 20, spanning major cities and concluding in Phoenix, Arizona, on Oct. 29.

Variety's 2023 Hitmakers program, meticulously curated by the editorial team, includes a lineup of distinguished awards:

• SZA – Hitmaker of the Year
• Olivia Rodrigo – Storyteller of the Year
• Boygenius – Group of the Year
• Metro Boomin – Producer of the Year
• Mark Ronson – Soundtrack of the Year
• Billie Eilish and FINNEAS – Film Song of the Year: "What Was I Made For"
• Maren Morris – Changemaker of the Year
• Republic Records – Label of the Year
• Grammy Museum President and CEO Michael Sticka – Music Education and Advocacy Leadership Award, presented by City National Bank

Watch: Smokey Robinson's Age-Defying Performance Delights NPR's Tiny Desk

On Monday, NPR presented the latest installment of its "Tiny Desk Concert" series, featuring legendary Motown icon Smokey Robinson. The 83-year-old music sensation graced the stage at NPR Headquarters in Washington, D.C., accompanied by a 12-piece ensemble.

Robinson's influence on the music industry is undeniable. Known for his pivotal role in shaping the Motown sound, R&B, and soul music, he remains a distinguished artist even at the age of 83.

The performance commenced with a rendition of his 1981 classic, "Being With You," showcasing the enduring charm of his falsetto.

Robinson continued by performing "The Tears Of A Clown," a song he co-wrote with Stevie Wonder during his time with The Miracles. This classic delighted the audience, and Robinson's talent shone through.

Two tracks from Robinson's latest album, "Gasms," were also part of this intimate performance. "Beside You" exuded romance, with a standout saxophone solo by Brandon Wright in "If We Don't Have Each Other."

Robinson concluded the concert with his timeless hit, "Cruisin'." The audience participated with enthusiasm, creating a heartwarming atmosphere.

Smokey Robinson's legacy as an influential figure in the world of R&B, soul music, and the Motown sound is well-documented. His ability to craft timeless and romantic tunes has set a standard for generations of songwriters.

The concert featured two tracks from Robinson's latest album, "Gasms," revealing his ongoing commitment to creating soulful and timeless music.

NPR's "Tiny Desk Concert" series has hosted other celebrated R&B artists this year, such as Babyface and Charlie Wilson, in line with its commitment to showcasing musical excellence.

Watch: Beyoncé's 'Renaissance World Tour' Comes Alive in New Film

Beyoncé is gearing up to mesmerize global audiences as she takes her acclaimed "Renaissance World Tour" from the stage to the silver screen.

Following the tour's triumphant finale in Kansas City, Missouri, on Sunday night, the iconic diva unveiled the hotly-anticipated trailer for "Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé." This cinematic sensation is set to premiere worldwide in theaters on December 1.

The forthcoming film promises an inside look at the extraordinary journey of the "Renaissance World Tour," spanning its inception and grand opening in Stockholm, Sweden, to the climactic finale in Kansas City, Missouri.

It also delves into Beyoncé's unwavering dedication, meticulous involvement in all aspects of production, boundless creativity, and unwavering commitment to crafting a lasting legacy while perfecting her artistry.

"The film encapsulates Beyoncé's unwavering determination, dedication, and comprehensive involvement in every facet of production, showcasing her creative genius and her mission to establish an enduring legacy while elevating her craft," underscores the official synopsis.

Get a sneak peek of this cinematic treat by watching the first trailer below.

VP Kamala Harris Shimmies to Iconic Beats at Hip-Hop's 50th Bash

Photo by Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

Vice President Kamala Harris hosted a gala celebration at the vice presidential residence in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, commemorating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. The event featured a lineup of iconic hip-hop artists and pioneers, including Common, MC Lyte, Roxanne Shante, and more

The celebration marked a significant milestone in the genre's history, with hip-hop enthusiasts from across the nation gathering to honor its cultural impact. Harris, a self-professed fan of hip-hop, emphasized its profound influence on American culture.

"Hip-hop is the ultimate American art form," Harris declared. "It tells stories that often go unheard, serving as a powerful medium for truth. As the great Chuck D once said, rap is Black America's CNN. It calls us to action."

Let's be clear: Hip hop culture is America's culture.

It was a joy to celebrate 50 years of hip hop with some of the greats. pic.twitter.com/FgPKiPWu1b

— Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) September 10, 2023

The event, a collaborative effort between Harris's team, the Recording Academy's Black Music Collective, and Live Nation Urban, drew approximately 400 guests. DJ D Nice, renowned for his Club Quarantine events during the pandemic, co-hosted the celebration, adding musical flair to the festivities.

Harris and Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff embraced the hip-hop spirit, dancing to classic tunes, including Q-Tip's "Vivrant Thing." The celebration showcased hip-hop's evolution from a local phenomenon in the Bronx to a global cultural force, intertwined with social and racial justice movements.

Notable political figures in attendance included Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia, Gov. Wes Moore of Maryland and Rep. Cori Bush of Missouri. The event underscored Harris's connection to hip-hop, a cultural touchstone that resonates deeply with a diverse range of Americans.

The celebration also featured electrifying performances, with Lil Wayne making a surprise appearance and thrilling the audience with a rendition of "Mrs. Officer" from his critically acclaimed album "Tha Carter III."

Lil Wayne raps “Mrs. Officer” to celebrate the 50th anniversary of hip-hip at Kamala Harris’ DC residence pic.twitter.com/hx5yi9lJxF

— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) September 9, 2023

Sean 'Diddy' Combs to Receive Global Icon Award and Return to Stage at MTV Video Music Awards

Photo Courtesy MTV

Sean "Diddy" Combs, a pioneering figure in the rap industry and the founder of Bad Boy Records, is set to be honored with the Global Icon Award at this year's MTV Video Music Awards. The award recognizes Combs for his unparalleled career and significant influence in the world of music and beyond.

The VMAs ceremony, set to air live from New Jersey's Prudential Center on September 12 at 8 p.m. EST, marks Combs' return to the VMAs stage after a 16-year absence, with his last appearance dating back to 2005.

In addition to the Global Icon Award, Combs is nominated in four other categories at this year's VMAs. Notably, he's recognized in the Best Collaboration category for his contributions to tracks like "Creepin' (Remix)" and "Gotta Move On," featuring Bryson Tiller, Ashanti, and Yung Miami. He's also nominated in the Best Rap and Best R&B categories.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Video Music Awards (@vmas)

Combs' history with the VMAs goes back to his 1997 debut, where he performed "Mo Money Mo Problems" live. In 2005, he hosted the ceremony, solidifying his connection with the VMAs.

The Global Icon Award has previously been presented to renowned artists like Red Hot Chili Peppers. However, Combs holds a unique distinction as the first Black artist and solo performer to receive this honor.

As part of the celebration, Sean Combs will perform live for the first time in 16 years. His last appearance was in 2005 when he hosted the show in Miami, delivering a memorable medley of songs by The Notorious B.I.G. alongside Snoop Dogg.

Apart from the Global Icon Award, Combs received nominations in the Best R&B and Best Collaboration categories for his work on "Gotta Move On (Queens Remix)" and "Creepin' (Remix)."

Additionally, Combs is set to release "The Love Album: Off The Grid" on September 15 via Love Records. This 23-song album will feature collaborations with notable artists such as Babyface, The Weeknd, Mary J. Blige, John Legend, Herb Alpert, Jazmine Sullivan, The-Dream, K-Ci Hailey and H.E.R.

Combs also has been generating excitement on social media with his collaboration with Mary J. Blige, titled "I Like," believed to sample Blige's 1994 track, "Don't Go."

Me and @MaryJBlige’s legacy is deeper than music. We truly are brother and sister from another mother. Mary was one of the only people to stand by me the first time the world canceled me. She believed in me enough to make the “My Life” album and has always been by my side. I… pic.twitter.com/b3w7zAVkDJ

— LOVE (@Diddy) September 5, 2023

"The Love Album: Off The Grid" follows Diddy's 2006 release, "Press Play," which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart. This upcoming project marks his return as a lead artist under the name Diddy, following previous releases under different aliases, including Puff Daddy & The Family and Diddy – Dirty Money.

The 2023 MTV Video Music Awards feature a lineup of leading artists, with Taylor Swift, Doja Cat, and SZA leading the nominations. The VMAs will also include performances by Måneskin, Demi Lovato, Karol G and Stray Kids.

50 Cent's Aggressive Microphone Toss Sparks Legal Concerns at LA Concert

Rapper 50 Cent's actions at a recent concert might lead to legal repercussions, as he aggressively threw a microphone into the crowd during his "Final Lap" tour performance at Cryto.com Arena on Wednesday.

Videos capturing the incident swiftly circulated after the concert, revealing an irate 50 Cent tossing his microphone not once, but twice, into the audience. Reports indicate that the rapper's frustration stemmed from microphone malfunctions. The situation escalated when the second microphone also malfunctioned, prompting him to launch it into the crowd with heightened force.

Angry 50 Cent throws mic into crowd, smacking fan in the head. 😯‼️ pic.twitter.com/6LEy8M3E4F

— DramaAlert (@DramaAlert) August 31, 2023

The altercation unfolded while 50 Cent was sharing the stage with special guest YG. Pictures of the apparent victim, identified as Power 106 host Bryhana Monegain, emerged online, showing her with a bleeding forehead wound.

Although initial reports didn't indicate any police involvement, TMZ later reported that 50 Cent is now a subject of a criminal battery report following Monegain's complaint. Law enforcement sources suggest that 50 Cent aimed the microphone at his crew in the production area, inadvertently hitting the victim. In contrast, the victim asserts that 50 Cent made direct eye contact with her before hurling the microphone.

As of now, representatives for 50 Cent, Power 106, and Crypto.com Arena have yet to provide any official statements regarding the incident.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Neighborhood Talk (@theneighborhoodtalk)

Lauryn Hill Marks Album Milestone with Global Tour, Joined by The Fugees

Global music sensation Lauryn Hill is set to embark on a highly anticipated international tour alongside The Fugees, in celebration of the 25th anniversary of her groundbreaking solo album, "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill."

In a press release issued on Tuesday, it was announced that Hill will take the stage, treating audiences to performances of her seminal album that encapsulate the musical brilliance and nostalgic magic of an era.

Starting on September 8 in Minneapolis, the tour will include a notable highlight at the Global Citizen Festival in New York City later in the month. Hill's musical journey will span continents, encompassing Australia, Canada, and several cities across the United States, culminating with a finale in Seattle in November.

The Fugees, the iconic hip-hop group, will reunite with Lauryn Hill for the US leg in October and November, adding an extra layer of excitement for fans who hold a special place for the trio.

Reflecting on the profound impact of her album, Hill shared, "‘The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’ is and was a love song to my parents, my family, my people, my musical and cultural forebears, my teachers, my loves, my Creator." She emphasized that the album provided a platform to share wisdom and perspectives through music, challenging stereotypes, and championing the idea that diverse expressions and people have a rightful place anywhere, driven by imagination, creativity and love.

Released on August 25, 1998, "The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill" remains a cornerstone of hip-hop and R&B history, featuring enduring tracks like "Doo Wop (That Thing)," "To Zion," and "Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You." The album secured Hill five Grammy Awards, including the coveted Album of the Year and Best New Artist. Importantly, Hill made history as the first woman to clinch five or more Grammys in a single night, and the album marked the first hip-hop record to earn the Album of the Year honor.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ms. Lauryn Hill (@mslaurynhill)

The Fugees, comprising Hill, Wyclef Jean, and Pras Michel, recently reunited in June, gracing the stage at the Roots Picnic in Philadelphia. The trio had initially announced a reunion tour in 2021 to honor the 25th anniversary of their iconic album "The Score." However, the tour faced cancellation due to challenges stemming from the ongoing pandemic.

Notably, member Pras Michel was recently found guilty of 10 criminal counts in federal court for his involvement in a plot to assist China in influencing U.S. government officials. These counts encompass conspiracy to defraud the US, witness tampering, and acting as an unregistered agent of a foreign government. He faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison.

Tickets for Lauryn Hill's highly anticipated tour will go on sale to the general public on Friday at 10 a.m. local time. A pivotal moment on the tour is the performance at Newark's Prudential Center on October 17, underscoring the celebratory journey of both Hill and The Fugees.

Lauryn Hill Tour Dates:

September 8 – Minneapolis, MN – Mystic Lake
September 23 – New York, NY – Global Citizen Festival
October 1 – Gold Coast, AUS – Promiseland Festival
October 3 – Melbourne, AUS – Rod Laver Arena (with Koffee)
October 5 – Sydney, AUS – Kudos Banks Arena (with Koffee)
October 7 – Auckland, NZ – Eden Festival
October 17 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center (with Fugees)
October 19 – Brooklyn, NY – Barclays (with Fugees)
October 21 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena (with Fugees)
October 23 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Arena (with Fugees)
October 26 – Toronto, ON – Scotia (with Fugees)
October 28 – Chicago, IL – United Center (with Fugees)
October 30 – Fort Worth, TX – Dickies Arena (with Fugees)
November 2 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena (with Fugees)
November 5 – Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum (with Fugees)
November 7 – Oakland, CA – Oakland Arena (with Fugees)
November 9 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena (with Fugees)

Watch: Rock the Bells Festival Announces 2023 Lineup With Epic Trailer

The Rock the Bells Festival announced its lineup for 2023 on Thursday, and it features some of the most iconic and trailblazing performers in the hip-hop industry.

Queen Latifah, Ludacris, De La Soul, Method Man & Redman, Swizz Beatz, Salt-n-Pepa, Big Daddy Kane, Rakim and Fabolous are just a smattering of the rap icons that will be on hand to perform at the event, which also promises to offer an immersive experience for hip-hop enthusiasts, highlighting the genre's impact on fashion, art and food.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by ROCK THE BELLS (@rockthebells)

"We've made it a priority to honor hip-hop culture! This is a celebration for artists who paved the way and the legions of fans around the world throughout hip-hop's 50th-anniversary year," James Cuthbert, President of Rock The Bells, said. "The stage is set for the overdue acknowledgment and celebration of our culture and the fans who live and breathe it! This lineup represents icons and artists from various decades, cities, and styles, ensuring fans have the best hip-hop experience possible."

Along with the musical performances, the festival will also include a range of experiences, such as a tribute to the late Sean Price by Rock & Bernadette Price and a showcase of hip-hop pioneers' debut albums and hit singles, including the 35th anniversary of The Great Adventures of Slick Rick.

The festival takes place on August 11 at Forest Hills Stadium in New York City, marking the 50th anniversary of the birth of hip-hop. Fans can purchase presale VIP packages and general and reserved tickets for the festival through the festival's website.

To announce the lineup, Rock the Bells released a promotional trailer on Thursday featuring LL COOL J, Mike Epps, Salt-N-Pepa, Slick Rick, and Yo-Yo. The trailer is based on the seminal hip-hop-heist movie Set It Off and provides a sneak peek of what fans can expect from the festival.

Watch the full trailer below:

LL Cool J Announces First Arena Tour in 30 Years With All-Star Lineup

Call it a comeback: LL Cool J is headlining his first arena tour in 30 years, and he's bringing some of hip-hop's biggest and brightest stars with him.

The tour backed by Live Nation and dubbed The F.O.R.C.E Live (Frequencies of Real Creative Energy) will boast a rotating cast of some of hip-hop's most historic figures and groups.

Salt-N-Pepa, Queen Latifah, Rakim, Common, Method Man & Redman, Big Boi, Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, Ice T, Juvenile, Doug E. Fresh, Slick Rick, De La Soul, Goodie Mob, Jadakiss and Rick Ross, are just some of the acts expected to take the stage where they will be backed by iconic hip-hop group The Roots and legendary DJs Z-Trip and Jazzy Jeff.

The tour kicks off on June 25 at TD Garden in Boston, MA and will roll through arenas across the continent before closing out on September 3 in Los Angeles, CA at Kia Forum.

This is not a moment, it’s a movement. For my first Arena tour in 30 years, I am bringing you THE F.O.R.C.E. (Frequencies of Real Creative Energy.) @theroots, @ztrip & @djjazzyjeff215 will join me in the ultimate Hip-Hop mash-up with a legendary non-stop continuous set! We hit… pic.twitter.com/j6OalpogG3

— LLCOOLJ (@llcoolj) April 25, 2023

Fans can purchase tickets through the Live Nation presale, Ticketmaster presale, or local venue and radio presales on Thursday. General sales begin Friday. Click here for more information or to purchase tickets.

The F.O.R.C.E Live tour dates are as follows:
6/25 - Boston, MA - TD Garden
6/27 - Brooklyn, NY - Barclays Center
6/28 - Newark, NJ - Prudential Center
6/29 - Toronto, ON - Scotiabank Arena
7/1 - Baltimore, MD - CFG Bank Arena
7/2 - Washington, DC - Capital One Arena
7/4 - Atlanta, GA - State Farm Arena
7/6 - Hollywood, FL - Hard Rock Live
7/8 - Raleigh, NC - PNC Arena
7/9 - Charlotte, NC - Spectrum Center
8/12 - Cleveland, OH - Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse
8/13 - Chicago, IL - United Center
8/18 - Detroit, MI - Little Caesars Arena
8/19 - St. Louis, MO - Enterprise Center
8/20 - Indianapolis, IN - Gainbridge Fieldhouse
8/22 - Memphis, TN - FedEx Forum
8/23 - New Orleans, LA - Smoothie King Center
8/24 - Ft. Worth, TX - Dickies Arena
8/25 - Houston, TX - Toyota Center
8/27 - Albuquerque, NM - Sandia Casino Amphitheater
8/29 - Denver, CO - Ball Arena
9/1 - San Francisco, CA - Chase Center
9/2 - Las Vegas, NV - MGM Grand Garden Arena
9/3 - Los Angeles, CA - Kia Forum

Janet Jackson's 2023 'Together Again' Tour Captured in Upcoming Documentary

Janet Jackson's self-titled documentary, released in 2022, garnered 21 million viewers and became the highest-rated documentary of the year on cable television. Now, Lifetime and A&E have approved a follow-up to the story called "Janet Jackson: Family First."

The upcoming documentary will follow Janet Jackson on her 2023 "Together Again" tour and her collaboration with brother Randy Jackson to reunite the family band 40 years after its last performance.

“I was touched by the love and support from the wonderful fans who enjoyed the documentary last year," Janet, who served as executive producer for the project along with Randy, said in a statement. "I am excited to continue to share my story and welcome fans into my life and the 'Together Again' tour. Thank you for your never-ending support, and I hope you enjoy the next chapter."

Randy added, "In this next chapter in the documentary, Janet and I are thrilled to welcome viewers on the road with us as we embark on the 'Together Again' tour, celebrating the milestone of 50 years of Janet's career with fans across the country. We look forward to the continued partnership with Lifetime and A&E and to sharing our family with viewers."

According to a press release from the networks, the project — directed by Ben Hirsch and produced by Workerbee — will provide an exclusive, intimate, and honest look into the life, family, and legendary artistry of the five-time Grammy Award-winning artist, songwriter, producer, author, actor, philanthropist, and global icon, whose record sales have exceeded 180 million copies worldwide.

Apart from following the "Together Again" tour, "Janet Jackson: Family First" will also celebrate the 25th and 30th anniversaries of two of Jackson's critically acclaimed albums, "The Velvet Rope" and "Janet," respectively.

"Janet Jackson: Family First" is currently in production and will be broadcast simultaneously on Lifetime and A&E. The release date will be announced soon.

Chris Rock Chosen to be First Live Performer on Netflix

Chris Rock

Chris Rock is going where no comedian has gone before — live on Netflix.

The streaming giant made the announcement Thursday on Twitter.

"Chris Rock is about to make history as the first artist to perform LIVE on Netflix!" the network posted on its official account, alongside a picture of Rock with a goat. "The legendary comedian, writer, director, and actor’s newest comedy special will premiere live — globally — in early 2023 on Netflix!"

Netflix’s vice president of stand-up and comedy formats, Robbie Praw, elaborated on why Rock — who is currently on the road for his Ego Death World Tour — was chosen for the honor in a statement released by the company.

Chris Rock is about to make history as the first artist to perform LIVE on Netflix!

The legendary comedian, writer, director, and actor’s newest comedy special will premiere live — globally — in early 2023 on Netflix! pic.twitter.com/U8ozz2BLV1

— Netflix (@netflix) November 10, 2022

"Chris Rock is one of the most iconic and important comedic voices of our generation,” Praw said. “We’re thrilled the entire world will be able to experience a live Chris Rock comedy event and be a part of Netflix history. This will be an unforgettable moment and we’re so honored that Chris is carrying this torch.”

The appearance will mark the second time Rock has done a stand-up special for the network. In 2018, he made his Netflix debut with “Chris Rock: Tamborine."

Travis Scott's Road to Redemption Goes Through Las Vegas

Frank Schwichtenberg, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Rapper Announces ‘Road to Utopia’ Residency at Las Vegas

The Travis Scott comeback tour gained significant momentum on Monday when the much-maligned rapper announced he had secured a Las Vegas residency.

"Road to Utopia" is touted as a "mind-bending, first-of-its-kind nightclub residency experience" by Resorts World Las Vegas. Housed at the resort's Zouk Nightclub, it kicks off on Sept. 17 and will span seven shows.

Got Goosebumps yet? Experience @travisscott like you never have before as he takes over the stage at #ZoukNightclub on September 17 and October 15 for live performances you won’t forget 🔥https://t.co/NkvbkZ6RlO pic.twitter.com/uX9tNg411i

— ZoukGroupLV (@ZoukGroupLV) August 1, 2022

Resort World Las Vegas' chief marketing officer, Ronn Nicolli called Scott a "one-of-a-kind, multi-talented artist" in a statement and added, "His residency will bring a new level of energy to Resorts World Las Vegas and add to the property's diverse list of entertainment and nightlife offerings."

For the 31-year-old musician, the gig is a major milestone in his continued return to the limelight following the tragedy at the Astroworld Festival less than a year ago.

Scott's signature annual hometown concert ended in a crowd stampede that left ten people dead and hundreds more injured last November.

In the wake of the disaster, the multi-platinum artist was dropped as a headliner from several major music festivals. Ultimately, he took a six-month break from performing.

He returned to the stage at the Billboard Music Awards in May. Since then, he has done a guest set at Rolling Loud, a nightclub appearance, and performances at parties during Coachella and the Oscars.

The shows at Zouk will be all about Scott, featuring the "Sicko Mode" singer performing his hits in a state-of-the-art facility. A possibility of Scott previewing upcoming tracks during the residency was also teased in the announcement.

"His electric performances will pair perfectly with our immersive atmosphere, bringing our guests an unmatched show unlike anything else they can find in Las Vegas," Andrew Li, CEO of Zouk Group, said. "We can't wait to kick off his residency and continue to amplify our talent lineup."

Wu-Tang Clan, Nas Announce North American Tour

Courtesy Live Nation 

Hip-hop belongs to the world now, but there is no denying that its ancestral home is New York.

On Tuesday, rap legends Wu-Tang Clan and Nas announced they’re co-headlining a tour guaranteed to remind those who may have forgotten the state’s importance to the art form.

RZA, GZA, Inspectah Deck, U-God, Ghostface Killah, Method Man, Raekwon, Masta Killa, and Cappadonna — who emerged from the slums of Shaolin (New York’s Staten Island) like the Voltron lions to form the rap supergroup Wu-Tang Clan — and Brooklyn-born, Queensbridge bred (raised in Queens, New York’s infamous Queensbridge Houses public housing development) Nas, NY State of Mind tour is slated to launch late in the summer.

The 25-city tour begins Aug. 30 in St. Louis, Missouri, before making stops across North America including Atlanta, Toronto and Houston before wrapping up Oct. 4 in Los Angeles.

The first official tour featuring the two icons, however, will not include any shows in their native New York.

Both acts began their careers with genre-defining albums in the 1990s. Wu-Tang Clan’s kung-fu crossed with hardcore hip-hop-inspired debut "Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)" dropped in November 1993, and Nas’ “Illmatic” hit the airwaves six months later.

Courtesy Live Nation 

"Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)” ranks 27th on Rolling Stone's updated list of the 500 Greatest Albums of All Time, while Billboard wrote in 2015 that “'Illmatic' is widely seen as the best hip-hop album ever.” It was selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Recording Registry for being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant" in 2020, and last week it was announced that “Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers)” would be receiving the same honor.

Nas, who earned his first-ever Grammy Award for best rap album in March for his twelfth solo studio album, King's Disease, has appeared as a featured artist on several tracks by members of Wu-Tang Clan as well as with the whole group on a song titled "Let My N—- Live" off Wu-Tang Clan's 2000 album The W. He also appeared as himself in the 2019 Showtime documentary series Wu-Tang Clan: Of Mics and Men to speak about his time working with the group.

NY STATE OF MIND TOUR DATES:
Tue Aug 30 – St. Louis, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre*
Thu Sep 01 – Noblesville, IN – Ruoff Music Center*
Fri Sep 02 – Tinley Park, IL – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre*
Sat Sep 03 – Clarkston, MI – Pine Knob Music Theatre^
Sun Sep 04 – Toronto, ON – Budweiser Stage^
Wed Sep 07 – Cuyahoga Falls, OH – Blossom Music Center*
Thu Sep 08 – Camden, NJ – Waterfront Music Pavilion*
Fri Sep 09 – Hartford, CT – XFINITY Theatre*
Sat Sep 10 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center*
Tue Sep 13 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center^
Wed Sep 14 – Virginia Beach, VA – Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach*
Fri Sep 16 – Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live*
Sat Sep 17 – Raleigh, NC – Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek*
Sun Sep 18 – Charlotte, NC – PNC Music Pavilion*
Tue Sep 20 – West Palm Beach, FL – iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre*
Wed Sep 21 – Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre*
Thu Sep 22 – Atlanta, GA – Lakewood Amphitheatre*
Sat Sep 24 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center^
Sun Sep 25 – Austin, TX – Germania Insurance Amphitheater^
Mon Sep 26 – Dallas, TX – Dos Equis Pavilion*
Thu Sep 29 – Phoenix, AZ – Ak-Chin Pavilion*
Fri Sep 30 – Irvine, CA – FivePoint Amphitheatre*
Sat Oct 01 – Oakland, CA – Oakland Arena^
Sun Oct 02 – Wheatland, CA – Toyota Amphitheatre*
Tue Oct 04 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Bowl*
TICKETS: Tickets go on sale starting Tuesday, April 26th at 10am local at livenation.com

Covid Concerns Lead to Cancellation of Fugees Reunion Tour

Photo Credit B+

The Fugees much anticipated reunion tour to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the release of their 1996 opus, "The Score," has been called off.

“We anticipate and understand disappointment but our anniversary tour will not be able to happen,” the group wrote in an Instagram post. “The continued Covid pandemic has made touring conditions difficult, and we want to make sure we keep our fans and ourselves healthy and safe. An idea sparked to honor and celebrate this 25th anniversary of ‘The Score’ but we see now it may not currently be our time for revisiting this past work. We’re grateful for the special night we did get to share with some of you in New York, with that rare live moment. If opportunity, public safety, and scheduling allow, we hope to be able to revisit this again sometime soon. Thank you for all of your love and support throughout the years.”

Originally announced in September right before the group came together for the first time in 15 years to take the stage at Pier 17 in New York, the concert was scheduled to kick off Nov. 2 at United Center in Chicago and traverse the U.S. and Europe before concluding in Africa

“As I celebrate 25 years with the Fugees, my first memory was that we vowed, from the gate, we would not just do music we would be a movement," Wyclef Jean, who along with Pras Michel and Lauryn Hill comprise the band, said at the time in a statement. "We would be a voice for the unheard, and in these challenging times, I am grateful once again, that God has brought us together.”

Unfortunately for fans the Sept. 22 concert in New York, where the trio arrived nearly four hours late but still earned accolades for a show featuring just seven songs and a cavalcade of support musicians, will have to hold them through the foreseeable future.

The trio's second album "The Score" shot them to superstardom in 1996. Hit singles "Killing Me Softly" and "Ready or Not" helped propel it to the top of the Billboard charts. The Fugees went on to become the first hip-hop group ever to be nominated for Album of the Year at the 1997 Grammy's, where "The Score" took home awards for Best Rap Album and Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group ("Killing Me Softly").

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fugees (@fugees25)

 

Watch: Hip-Hop Legends Come Together in Epic Super Bowl Halftime Trailer

Last year we reported that Dr. Dre had assembled some of hip-hop's greatest talents to headline the 2022 Pepsi Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show Feb. 13 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.

Today, with the game closer on the horizon, the rapper and producer dropped a hype video for the event that has expectations soaring for the halftime experience at the first Super Bowl in Los Angeles since 1993.

In the nearly four-minute clip directed by F. Gary Gray, who had the same role on "Straight Outta Compton," the biographical movie about Dre's former group N.W.A. released in 2015, Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige and Kendrick Lamar answer "The Call" from Dre and unite to head to the stadium together in their own unique ways.

Eminem opens the video battle-rapping his alter ego Slim Shady before getting the nod and jumping on his private plane. Snoop Dogg cruises the California streets to his frequent partner in rhyme in his custom lowrider. Blige announces she's back in a high-fashion photoshoot before jumping in her own slick ride, and Lamar wrestles with his own verses and smoking pen in an empty room before jumping on his custom bike to heed the call.

The soundtrack, scored by Adam Blackstone, transitions into Tupac Shakur's 1999 hit "California Love" as they come together and approach the stadium. It is in an homage to the deceased star who was a pivotal part of Death Row along with Dre and Snoop and the city in which the game will be played.

"The opportunity to perform at the Super Bowl Halftime show, and to do it in my own backyard, will be one of the biggest thrills of my career," Dr. Dre said in a statement when the lineup was originally announced.

"It will be an "unforgettable cultural moment," he added.

Whether or not that is true remains to be seen but the hype video has certainly made some fans believers. Watch the entire clip below:

Congress Opens Investigation Into Astroworld Promoter Live Nation

Live Nation, the promoter of the Astroworld music festival, is under investigation by a congressional committee for its role in the tragic event that saw 10 people killed by a deadly crowd surge while headliner Travis Scott performed.

The House Oversight and Reform Committee sent a letter Wednesday to Live Nation Entertainment Inc. President and CEO Michael Rapino requesting information on preparation and safety measures for the Nov. 5 event.

“We are writing to request information regarding the tragic events on November 5, 2021, when a stampede crushed concertgoers, killing ten people and injuring hundreds more during Astroworld Music Festival. Those who died ranged in age from 9 to 27 years old. Concert attendees have provided firsthand accounts of being crushed within the crowd as it surged towards the stage,” the letter reads in part.

The letter, issued by committee Chairwoman Carolyn B. Maloney, D-New York, and Ranking Member James Comer, R-Kentucky, went on to note its concerns about the company and its practices and provide examples of negligence it would be investigating.

“Recent reports raise serious concerns about whether your company took adequate steps to ensure the safety of the 50,000 concertgoers who attended Astroworld Festival,” the letter, which was also signed by U.S. Reps. Al Green, D-Houston, and Kevin Brady, R-The Woodlands, continues. “For instance, reports indicate that security and medical staff were inexperienced or ill-equipped to deal with mass injuries,” they wrote. “Some attendees stated that the placement of barricades made it difficult to escape. Experts have stated that Astroworld Festival organizers failed to heed warning signs.”

It also called out the company's conduct following the festival, noting its concern over reports that “Live Nation and its subsidiary reportedly have withheld pay until part-time employees who worked the festival have signed a revised employment contract, correcting the original version signed prior to the festival that was dated 2018. The revision makes it clear that the contract, which includes a broad provision releasing Live Nation from liability, applies to the 2021 festival.”

The committee has requested documentation from Live Nation by Jan. 7, 2022, and asked it to provide a closed-door briefing to the members of the committee by Jan. 12.

Live Nation responded with a statement saying that it is “assisting local authorities in their investigation and will of course share information with the Committee as well.”

“Safety is core to live events and Live Nation engages in detailed security planning in coordination with local stakeholders including law enforcement, fire and EMT professionals,” the company said.

According to an investigation by the Houston Chronicle, the company and its subsidiary Live Nation Worldwide have been linked to at least 750 injuries and around 200 deaths at its events in seven countries since 2006.

Astroworld Victims Suffocated While Being Crushed to Death

All 10 people who died because of the deadly crowd surge at Travis Scott's Astroworld Festival last month, which occurred while Scott was on stage, suffocated.

The Harris County Medical Examiner's Office announced its conclusion on Thursday that the victims died of "compression asphyxia." One of the deceased, Danish Baig, had cocaine, methamphetamine and ethanol in his system, but the drugs were contributory and not the main cause of death.

The conclusion by the medical examiner that the victims were essentially crushed to death came one day after crews finally started disassembling the Astroworld Festival stage, which stood as a grim reminder of the deadly concert 40 days later, and on the day Scott announced that he would be working with the United States Conference of Mayors to ensure a similar tragedy does not happen in the future.

“This mass tragedy reinforced the serious issue of festival safety and security,” read an agreement obtained by Variety about the partnership with the organization. “As festivals with large crowd sizes continue to enjoy popularity, organizers, city officials and other stakeholders must have a clear understanding about best practices, current vulnerabilities, and access to the most innovative technology to ensure every festival is as safe as possible.”

For the Astroworld victims who died and the 300 or so other people that were injured in the crowd of 50,000 that attended the event, the announcement from Scott did not do much to ease their grief or assuage their anger.

Following the announcement that the victim's deaths were ruled to be accidental, the family of Bharti Shahani issued this scathing statement through their attorney:

"The medical examiner's findings confirm Bharti's family's worst fears," James Lassiter said. "Their beloved daughter's last living moments were surely marked with suffering, panic, and terror. It's a horrific, inescapable image that no parent should have to endure. But that is the sad reality for the Shahanis and the nine other families that received this terrible news."

Along with 27-year-old Baig and Bharti (22), the other victims were Rodolfo Pena (23), Madison Dubiski (23), Axel Avila (21), Franco Patino (21), Jacob Jurinek (20), Brianna Rodriguez (16), John Hilgert (14) and Ezra Blount (9).